Niall Gilligan charged with assault of 12 year old boy GETTING WIGGY WITH IT
by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie
ALL-IRELAND winning Clare hurler, Niall Gilligan has appeared in court charged with the assault causing harm of a 12 year old boy.
At Ennis District Court on Tuesday, the 47-year old Sixmilebridge man appeared in connection with two charges, which he denies.
Farmer and auctioneer, Mr Gilligan is charged with the assault causing harm of a 12-year old boy at the Jamaica Inn Hos-
tel, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmildebridge on October 5 last. Gilligan of Rosroe, Sixmilebridge, is also charged with producing a wooden stick during the course of a dispute contrary to Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmilebridge on October 5. The court heard that the matters are to be “fully defended.”
Judge Gabbett remanded Mr Gilligan on bail to appear before Ennis District Court on July 24.
l Alan O’Callaghan celebrates Clare’s win in Croke Park over Kilkenny last weekend
Photo by Gerard O’Neill
No injuries following blaze at Ennis halting site
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
NO INJURIES were sustained following a blaze at a halting site in Ennis on Tuesday evening.
It is the third time this year that the estate located adjacent to junction 13 of the M18 has been the subject of arson attacks. This particular house had previously been destroyed in a blaze.
County Council for the purpose of housing Traveller families.
Call: 065 - 6719021
Email: editor@clareecho.ie or NEWSDESK CONTACT US news@clareecho.ie
36C Abbey St., Ennis, Co Clare ross@clareecho.ie denise@clareecho.ie
Emergency services had to respond to reports of a strong fire at a Traveller accommodation site on the Tulla Rd in Ennis after 8pm on Tuesday night. One property was significantly damaged and two cars burnt out in the latest arson attack.
kieran@clareecho.ie
This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Press Council’s Code of Practice. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Press Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1890 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie
Another house was destroyed in a fire back in April while another incident occurred in February when no homes were ruined.
There are six properties in the development which was constructed by Clare
An Garda Síochána are continuing their investigations into the incident which according to reports may be an act of retaliation. Two ambulances attended the scene but no injuries were sustained in the blaze.
Members of the Clare County Fire and Rescue Service responded to the alarm and had the blaze under control in less than a hour with the scene fully cleared by 10pm.
'Significant damage' done to Shannon establishment
A “SIGNIFICANT amount of damage” was caused to The Goal Post Bar in the early hours of Sunday morning in a burglary on the clubhouse of Wolfe Tones GAA Club, writes Páraic McMahon
Four hooded males entered the premises of ‘the GAA’ shortly after 2am on Sunday morning and caused damage to the bar while trying to retrieve the safe. Strong takings had been recorded over the weekend with the premises busy during and after the two All-Ireland senior hurling semi-finals.
Crime prevention officer, Sergeant Catriona Holohan stated, “Four males entered the premises and caused a significant amount
of damage before leaving in a grey Volkswagen Golf.
Shannon Gardaí are appealing to anyone that may have witnessed this vehicle in the area, which may have CCTV or dash-cam footage that would have captured the grey Volkswagen Golf.
“If you have any information, please contact Shannon
Garda Station on 061 365900”.
In a statement, Wolfe Tones GAA Club thanked the people of Shannon and surrounding areas for their “incredible support” following the robbery and damage caused to The Goal Post Bar.
The statement,
“We are overwhelmed by all the
good wishes and are working hard to restore the bar and repair the damage.
“We appreciate your patience while doing this as it unfortunately means that we will need to remain closed for a few more days. We will keep you updated on our reopening”.
l Photo by John Mangan
lBURGLARY: The Goalpost Bar in Shannon Photo by Joe Buckley
comforting memorial
AirNav Ireland provides air traffic management services in the 451,000 km2 of airspace controlled by Ireland. This airspace forms a crucial gateway for air traffic between Europe and North America. The company recently donated blankets to Clarecastle Day Care Centre in memory of their friend and colleague Eoin McInerney. Attending the event were Deirdre Ryan, board member,(CDCC), Mary Maloney, assistant manager (CDCC), Tommy Niland, manager, (CDCC), Marian Hintz, AirNav and Rachel Martin, AirNav, corporate affairs Photo by Liam Burke/Press 22
1997 All-Ireland winner Gilligan appears in court
by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie
ALL-IRELAND winning Clare hurler, Niall Gilligan has appeared in court charged with the assault causing harm of a 12 year old boy.
At Ennis District Court on Tuesday, the 47-year old Sixmilebridge man appeared in connection with two charges, which he denies.
Farmer and auctioneer, Mr Gilligan is charged with the assault causing harm of a 12year old boy at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmildebridge contrary to Section 3 of the Offences Against the Person Act on October 5th last.
Mr Gilligan is also charged with producing a wooden stick during the course of a dispute contrary to Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmilebridge on October 5th last.
Solicitor for Mr Gilligan, Daragh Hassett told Judge Alec Gabbett, “The matters are to be fully defended.”
Judge Gabbett asked what was the age of the alleged victim in the case and Sgt Tracy Stanley replied "twelve".
Judge Gabbett commented, “It is very serious if it is a minor.”
Judge Gabbett asked if the alleged victim was known or unknown to Mr Gilligan and Sgt Stanley replied, “Unknown”.
Sgt Stanley of Sixmilebridge Garda Station gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution of Mr Gilligan earlier on Tuesday.
Sgt Stanley said, “I arrest-
ed the defendant this morning at 10.31am on Main Street, Sixmilebridge and conveyed him to Shannon Garda Station where at 11.08am he was charged as set out in the two charges before the court”.
Sgt Stanley said that Mr Gilligan was cautioned after each charge and he made ‘no reply’ in each case.
Sgt Frank O’Grady told Judge Gabbett that there was no Garda objection to bail for Mr Gilligan subject to certain conditions and Mr Hassett told the judge that the conditions had been reduced to writing.
These include Mr Gilligan of Rosroe, Sixmilebridge, residing at his own address and having no contact with the alleged injured party.
After reading the charges and the location of the Jamaica Inn, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmilebridge, Judge Gabbett asked, “Is there an element of trespass here?”
Mr Hassett said that there is.
Sgt Stanley said that the building was owned by Mr Gilligan at the time.
Sgt Stanley said that the case can proceed on a summary basis in the District Court and that the State Solicitor would be prosecuting.
Judge Gabbett said that he would decide if the matter would be heard in the District Court or the Circuit Court on the next court date and asked that medical reports in the case be made available to him.
On the adjourned date, the State case against Mr Gilligan will be outlined to allow Judge Gabbett decide on court jurisdiction.
Judge Gabbett asked was there an application for legal aid and Mr Hassett replied ‘no’. Judge Gabbett imposed reporting restrictions, for now, on the identity of the alleged injured party as he is a minor and said that the boy's parents would be asked about that issue.
At the end of the five minute hearing, Judge Gabbett remanded Mr Gilligan on bail to appear before Ennis District Court on July 24th.
Mr Gilligan was a star forward for the senior Clare hurling team which defeated Tipperary to win the 1997 All-Ireland Final. The Sixmilebridge clubman also won two Munster titles with Clare and multiple honours with his club over a long, distinguished hurling career.
Dance the night away with Revive Social Disco
THE aim of REVIVE Social Disco events is to do something positive for those of us, of any age, who still enjoy the wonderful music of the 60s, 70s, and 80s. We want to provide a chance not just to listen to the great originality and creativity of groups such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Guns N' Roses, but also to dance and sing along with the giants of disco like the Bee Gees, Rod Stewart, The Bellamy Brothers, Dr Hook, The Style Council, and soul and blues divas like Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston. Additionally, we celebrate great rock artists and bands
such as U2, Van Morrison, Paul Weller, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, Hot Chocolate, The Doobie Brothers, David Bowie, etc., but find there is nowhere to go to dance to this music anymore.
Our venture would like to honour this extraordinary, creative, and original period of music in rock, soul, disco, country rock, funk, Motown, etc., and to create a fantastic place and atmosphere where everyone can enjoy dancing without any pressure.
Everyone can just be themselves. Neat dress is recommended.
We would also like this to be
accessible to everyone, not just couples but also single people, widows, widowers, and those who are often excluded from events through no fault of their own.
This is our way of helping build community for all on the dance floor in a very positive way. We want all the original sunny music of The Beatles and what came after them in the 70s, 80s, and onwards to be on the dance floor again. So come along and dance the night away. Great memories, great music, and great craic. If you are old enough to love these songs, then you are young enough to dance!
l Niall Gilligan
A
Killeen credited as peace broker as party look to overcome disharmony
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
EX MINISTER for Defence, Tony Killeen (FF) served as the peace broker as Fianna Fáil members voted in a new officer board of the Comhairle Dáilcheantair as they stressed their intention of healing old wounds and ensuring the party elects two TDs in the next General Election.
Darragh McAllister was elected as the new chairman of the party’s branch in Clare after plenty of behind the scenes talks took place in advance of the AGM.
Kilnaboy’s Killeen who had been touted as a potential new Chairman led these discussions which were intended at creating a more united front between the party’s two Oireachtas members, Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and Senator Timmy Dooley (FF).
Addressing the AGM, Killeen a Clare TD from 1992 to 2011 admitted that it was his second time speaking at a CDC AGM since his retirement from politics. He stressed the need for the party to have “a united front” as was evident in the Shannon Municipal District for the local elections where three seats were won.
In conversations following the local elections, “we said there was a risk that the AGM would open rifts that are unhelpful, unnecessary and which would most certainly cost a second seat,” Tony said.
He informed the AGM that he sat down with Deputy Crowe and Senator Dooley with a plan on the election of a new officer board. He admitted that it was “some bit undemocratic and undesirable” that they were asking members not to have a contest for positions and instead to back the names they were putting forward. He explained, “in the circumstances we’re in we will only win one seat if we allow division to reign”. Should the party win two seats at the next General Election, the move “will be worth it,” the former TD said.
Michael Neylon, a member of the Ennis Fianna Fáil Comhairle Ceantair backed the call from Killeen and said the party should have a Minister and a TD rather than just one TD. He acknowledged that he had been vocal
himself on “disagreements in the past”.
A plea was issued following Killeen’s address for him to “do us the honour” of going forward uncontested for Chairman following the “great job” he had done in assembling an officer board. The female speaker said “people arguing on Facebook were making fools of us”. Killeen said he would serve on the committee if asked but was not willing to become Chairperson, “I’ll do whatever is required to be done with a fresh team. The previous team did a good job in hard circumstances. When you get a choice you can make things better or worse”.
With plenty of praise voiced for Killeen during the meeting it prompted a quip from Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) who said, “will we take down dev’s statue and put up Tony
Killeen instead”.
Outgoing Chairman, Mike Enright in his address thanked his fellow officers and key speakers at the Eamon de Valera commemoration during his eight year-term including Micheál Martin, Michael McGrath, Billy Kelleher and Kieran O’Keeffe. He singled out Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) and Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) for their efforts in getting Clare County Council to house dev’s dodge.
Election results were strong during his term, the Newmarket-on-Fergus native said with thirteen of 14 candidates elected in the 2019 local election and 14 of 16 this year.
“The bounce of the ball wasn’t with us,” he said when lamenting the defeat of Dooley in the 2020 General Election, “I believe we need a two candidate strategy for the next election,
electing two is the way forward”.
Senator Dooley and his wife Emer were singled out by Enright for their support during his term as Chairman.
Praise of the officer board led by Enright was voiced by Cllr O’Brien, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) and Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF). “It wasn’t a fluke,” commented O’Brien on Fianna Fáil increasing their presence on the County Council.
On the local authority, Fianna Fáil now has “young new dynamic people,” Cllr O’Callaghan stated. “We can’t be saying we’re caught in the dark ages,” the Mayor of Clare added. He credited the support from the officer board as helping to retain three Fianna Fáil councillors in the Killaloe Municipal District. The party can elect two TDs if members “stay united,” he stressed. “We need to stop the bickering and back stabbing and work to win two seats,” the Kilmurry man said.
“There’s no doubt in my mind that we can win two seats, it’s a guaranteed fact if we can pull together,” Cllr O’Gorman predicted. He told the AGM that their party leader, Micheál Martin (FF) told councillors on Friday at the Inn at Dromoland to “be on election footing”.
After Enright thanked members for their support of the Fianna Fáil draw and hailed the work of Senator Dooley on this, it prompted a reaction from Deputy Crowe who told the meeting “I wasn’t at home watching Coronation Street” to which there was loud applause from members in attendance, “there was great effort from two of us, I wasn’t sitting at home twiddling my thumbs”.
In his address, Deputy Crowe spoke of the bounce in Co Clare after Clare qualified for the All-Ireland final and went on to provide plenty of hurling analogies. “Long after I’m finished in politics and I plan to go bit further, I’d love to be like Tony Killeen, coming in here and doing his bit to avoid votes which might cause division,” the Meelick native said. “The one thing you ask for when you wear the Fianna Fáil jersey is loyalty and support; we have to have loyalty in the room, I look forward to working with the new Chairman and officers. We need the back up of our team”.
McAllister elected Chair of Fianna Fáil in Clare
FORMER publican and ex President of Ennis Chamber, Darragh McAllister has been elected as the new Chairperson of Fianna Fáil’s branch in Clare, writes Páraic McMahon
There were no contests at the AGM of the Fianna Fáil Clare Chomairle Dáilcheantair held at Hotel Woodstock on Monday evening. The Doonbeg Suite of the Ennis hotel was brimming as the membership of Fianna Fáil packed in to see if any suspected voting would be held as their entire officer board had served longer than the allocated four years.
Darragh McAllister who up until last October was co-owner of Lucas’ Bar and Considine’s Bar, both of which are situated on Parnell Street in Ennis, was elected as Chairman of the party’s branch in Clare. He succeeds Newmarket-on-Fergus dairy farmer Mike Enright who held the position since 2016.
McAllister has only recently rejoined the party. He had been one of four candidates in November 2022 seeking co-option to fill the seat on Clare County Council vacated by Mark Nestor (FF), this co-option was won by Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF).
Enright who last week told The Clare Echo that he was seeking re-election did not allow his name forward. He and secretary Rita McInerney, PRO Michael McTigue, treasurer Gearoid Kennedy and Aidan White and vice chairman Pat Considine stepped down from their roles.
McInerney’s election to the Council ensured she would not be allowing her name forward to continue in the busy role of constituency secretary. This will now be filled by Garrett Greene, a barrister who ran for the party in the 2009 local elections in the Ennis West electoral area. Gerry Kelly was appointed as assistant secretary.
A month on from losing his seat on the County Council, Cillian Murphy has joined the officer board. The Kilkee man steps into the breach as joint treasurer and this serves as a big lift for the party with some within the Fianna Fáil ranks previously expressing his defeat could see him run as an Independent down the track. Pat Murphy will also act as joint treasurer.
Four time May or of Shannon, Geraldine Lam bert is the new membership officer while 2019 local elec tion candidate, Louise Roche
l Darragh McAllister
McNamara is on board as women’s and equality officer.
Liam Hayes, the son of Cllr Pat Hayes was elected youth officer while former Chairman of the Ennis Fianna Fáil Comhairle Cean-
tair Tom Costelloe is the new PRO and retired principal of St Joseph’s School in Spanish Point, Mary Crawford succeeds Pat Considine as Vice Chairman.
FIANNA FÁIL CDC OFFICER BOARD
• Chairman: Darragh McAllister
• Vice Chairman: Mary Crawford
• Secretary: Garrett Greene
• Asst Secretary: Gerry Kelly
• Joint Treasurer: Tom Costelloe
• Joint Treasurer: Pat Murphy
• PRO: Cillian Murphy
• Youth officer: Liam Hayes
• Womens/equality officer: Louise Roche McNamara
• Membership officer: Geraldine Lambert
• Honorary Presidents: Jack Hanrahan, Tony Killeen, Sile de Valera
• Honorary Vice Presidents: Ann Arthur O’Brien, Mary O’Dwyer, Mary Leahy, Joan Barrett, Murt McInerney, Patrick Moloney, Michael McNamara
lUNITED FRONT: Ex Minister for Defence, Tony Killeen (FF) pictured at LE2024
Photo by Joe Buckley
The Town Hall Bistro
Providing
The Poets Corner Bar
A
The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant
Ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.
‘We are afraid of Cathal Crotty’
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
ARDNACRUSHA’s Cathal Crotty has been discharged from the Defence Forces and will be officially dismissed today (Thursday).
Twenty two year old Crotty walked free from court last month despite being found guilty of beating Nathasha O’Brien unconscious in a vicious street attack in May 2022.
Private Crotty had seven days to appeal against an army decision last month to dismiss him over the 2022 attack. This process has concluded and a senior officer has signed Crotty’s dismissal papers.
On Thursday, Crotty will be escorted off the premises at Sarsfield’s Barracks in Limerick after he returns his standard-issue equipment and uniform and completes his exit medical.
After beating Ms O’Brien on 29th May 2022, Crotty boasted about is on social media. He initially told Gardaí that it was O’Brien who instigated the attack on O’Connell Street in Limerick City but admitted his guilt after Gardaí showed CCTV footage of him attacking her.
Now-retired Judge Tom
O’Donnell gave Crotty a fully suspended sentence allowing him to walk free from court.
The Director of Public Prosecutions has since lodged an appeal against the leniency of Crotty’s sentence. Gardaí are also investigating a threatening letter sent to Crotty’s parents, warning them their son “will suffer for what he has done”.
At Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, three separate motions were tabled on the subject by the county’s female representatives. Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) called on the local authority to stand in solidarity with Natasha O’Brien, the Fianna Fáil quartet of Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Cllr
Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) sought tougher sentences for non-fatal and gender-based assaults while Cllr Mary Howard (FG) asked that the DPP be asked to consider evaluating the sentencing issued.
Shannon’s McGettigan led the call for the Council to hold a workshop on the matter so that they challenge gender stereotypes and see the signs. “Once again we are speaking out survivors of gender based abuse, enough is enough we have said time and again, we need to change the culture of violence against women, how many of us have witnessed this without stepping up or reporting it, this needs to be addressed”.
She said, “The outcome of this case is hugely concerning. It has sent a message that you can beat a woman almost to death on the street, boast about it online, deny it, blame the victim and then walk free. Once again women around the country are left feeling that their lives don’t matter. Time and again we have had to hold protests, vigils and outcry against injustice in cases like this, we should not have to ask or ad-
vocate for this. The system is broken, and it is taking brave women like Natasha to bring their case to the public in order to be heard. This has to go further than just an outcry.”
Crotty’s dismissal from the Defence Forces was welcomed by Cllr Colleran Molloy, “I am delighted to hear that Crotty will be no longer paid by the taxpayer to protect us”. She said, “It is the men that need to call this out, the women know this because they are subjected to it, the men are simply not sensitive or do see it but don’t call it out”. The Quin native said she “experienced it as a councillor not directly to me but about me in my presence”.
With experience of working alongside Judge O’Donnell, the barrister described him as “a fine judge” who followed the guidelines, “if he was to give a custodial sentence it would have ended the career but so what” but argued that O’Donnell should have jailed the SouthEast Clare man.
Hearing about the case gave Cllr McInerney “shivers”. She stated, “It starts with the sexist jokes and the misogyny, I’m sorry but some
of us let it go, a lot of it isn’t meant but we have to take a stand”. The Chair of the West Clare MD continued, Clare’s youngest elected representative, Cllr Hartigan admitted there was a sense of shock among her and classmates in university upon hearing the sentencing. “We’re not often afraid by the shadowy figures or the monster under the bed but we’re afraid of Cathal Crotty, a man that is supposed to protect us, we do not feel safe, Natasha did what we’re told to do, she didn’t walk home alone, she was with her friends and was in a welllit street”. She believed the sentencing “tells a story that a young man can feel okay to attack a girl in a street. The justice system allows for more concern on the abusers future than the victims”. Violence against women “is not a once off, one in four women in Ireland report domestic violence, one fifth and I’d argue it is more are worried of being attacked by a stranger,” commented Cllr Baker Bashua. “If a crime is committed, there should not be character witnesses to say it is out of character, that doesn’t make it any less violent” she added.
lDISCHARGED: Cathal Crotty
‘Cillian Murphy’s seat was the one that got away’ Tánaiste admits
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
TÁNAISTE, Micheál Martin (FF) has said Fianna Fáil got their strategy wrong in West Clare for the local elections after the incumbent Cillian Murphy (FF) lost his seat.
Overall Fianna Fáil gained a seat on Clare County Council with the election of 14 councillors, two of which Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Cllr David Griffin (FF) are the youngest on the local authority while the party has its highest ever contingent of female councillors in Clare with the figure rising to four.
In the Kilrush LEA, the deci-
Countywide, the Tánaiste pointed out that it was a strong election result for the party. “It was a very strong performance and I pay tribute to the party organisation here for the efforts they put in and particularly for facilitating young councillors like Rachel and David in Shannon as two examples and other new councillors. 39 per cent of the vote is very strong, 50 per cent of the seats so it is evidence of a very strong platform for Fianna Fáil in Clare, we’ve good hard working councillors, whilst local and European elections are not General Elections and you cannot compare the two but nonetheless
Cynthia Ní Mhurchú who was a force of nature during the campaign and I think she caught a lot of people by surprise but I knew in the last week she was going to do well when I did a weekend tour of the constituency with her because it was evident her campaign was getting a positive reception from voters, she got a very strong Munster vote and base in Cork, Billy Kelleher did fantastic work in the last five years which was to be seen”.
Presently there is no date agreed for a General Election, he confirmed and responded, “We’re going full-term”. The decision to bring forward the Budget to October 1st
lACCOMMODATION: Patrick Keane examines the
sion to run four candidates, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Cllr Michael Shannon (FF), Alan Troy (FF) and Cillian Murphy (FF) was a blunder according to party strategists within the county. The decision to have a ticket of four in West Clare came via a directive from headquarters. Regarded as one of the top performing councillors during the term from 2019 to 2024, the loss of Murphy was a big blow to the party.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, the party leader Micheál Martin (FF) commented, “I was very disappointed at losing Cillian Murphy, I dealt with him and Deputy Christopher O’Sullivan on coastal matters, nature restoration and ecological issues, it is an awful pity. I didn’t get into the specifics of every local electoral area, there is a constituency committee that examined it, they got some right and they got some wrong but we will evaluate that, it is one that got away and we should not have lost that seat”. This view was shared by outgoing Chairman of the party’s branch in Clare, Mike Enright when speaking at their AGM this week. He said he told headquarters that they were “totally opposed” to running four candidates in West Clare. “It was a bad decision and we paid a heavy price for it”.
I think there is a base for us to be competitive in the next General Election. We will be targeting a second seat here, in Cathal Crowe we have a very strong hard-working TD, in Timmy Dooley we have a very experienced former TD who has worked very hard as a Senator, we may run a third candidate and we will examine all of that”.
He continued, “We were generally pleased with the locals and also the Europeans because we gained an extra seat in Ireland South with
suggests an election is edging closer but Martin did not disagree. “It’s not really moving forward, it’s a week earlier and it makes sense. The Budget will take a lot of preparation, it is important work, then you have the Finance Bill and the Social Protection Bill so the Government in my view will go full term”.
Public support for Sinn Féin has fallen to its lowest point since early 2020, the latest opinion poll from the Sunday Independent/Ireland
Thinks revealed on Sunday. The survey suggests Sinn Féin has now fallen behind Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, making it the third most popular party among voters. Fine Gael is the most popular party in the country with 24 per cent, up two points on the previous poll, while support for Fianna Fáil has jumped three points since last month, making it the second most popular party at 20 per cent and Sinn Féin dropped to 18 per cent Support for Independents and others has fallen by three points, support for the group sits at 20 per cent
This stalling in Sinn Féin momentum has been visible in recent months with the party failing to make serious inroads in the recent local or European elections across the country. “The more important thing is to focus on the policy and Sinn Féin contradict themselves time and time again, they have not produced any blueprint on housing, nobody has any idea on how Sinn Féin would deal with the housing issues differently, we know they would get rid of the Help to Buy scheme and get rid of the First Home Scheme, both schemes are helpful to first-time buyers and a lot of people would not be happy if both schemes were to go and that is Sinn Féin’s policy to get rid of them. Fianna Fáil have introduced some schemes that are going very well, we have to build more houses and we will 38,000 this year which is way above the tar-
get, last year we did 33,000 which was ahead of the Housing for All target, we know there is an issue with housing and we have to build more housing, there is a problem with Cost of Living and we’re focusing on that because we understand people are under pressure, health is a big issue, we spent enormous sums of money in the last four years, overriding all of that the population has grown and it has grown by a million in the last 20 plus years so that has its own impact on services, we need a strong economy to sustain those services. I’ve been speaking here at Ennis Chamber’s Presidents Lunch to people who are job creators, we need to maintain a strong pro-enterprise economic policy that creates opportunities for people to set up their business and create jobs”.
tallies with Cillian Murphy and his wife Mary Photo by Joe Buckley
Lost traditions and crafts to be celebrated at Craggaunowen Fair
CRAGGAUNOWEN
will be the venue this weekend for the 2024 Culture and Crafts Fair to showcase Ireland’s traditional crafts and trades, writes Páraic McMahon
Visitors to the East Clare attraction will have the opportunity to engage directly with artists, crafts and tradespeople, storytellers, musician, and dancers from across the county.
This event celebrates Ireland’s lost or traditional crafts and trades.
Jack Pinson, a Clarebased maker of traditional and historic longbows, will showcase the ancient skill of timber craftwork on the traditional pole lathe.
Michael Foudy from Ruan will demonstrate the ancient craft of basket making and how locally sourced pliable materials such as hazel and willow were used to create baskets for carrying fuel, gathering food or catching fish.
Meanwhile, the ringfort's resident blacksmith and tool maker (Uinseann) will forge jewellery and share his knowledge of the history and mythology of forging in Ireland, and Craggaunowen’s resident craftsman (Arno) will transform animal hide and wood into functional drums for tribal ceremonies.
An idyllic setting, the 16th-century Craggaunowen Castle will host demonstrations and talks by local artists and craft producers, including artist Helen Lowe, SIAR Photography, Allison Chillice Leatherwork, Wild Atlantic Glass, Palm Oil Free Soaps, Carmel's Cottage Candles, Ramona Mulvey Jewellery, Pricella Crochet and Knitting, Gaelach Candles, Galanta Jewellery and Mona Paper Quilling.
From 1pm to 5pm on the Castle Green, visitors can enjoy live traditional music by local musicians as well as set dancing performances, while Konor Halpin will perform Druid storytelling and magic shows and Anthony Galvin will present his own unique brand of slapstick comedy and puppet shows.
“Our second annual Culture & Crafts Fair is
all about giving visitors a unique opportunity to experience the resilience and fortitude of early Bronze Age settlers,” explained Pauline Lenihan, Site Manager at Craggaunowen.
She continued, “We are excited to bring together some of Clare’s finest musicians, crafts and trades people and artists for what will truly be a celebration of the history, heritage and ancient traditions of County Clare. We promise a fun-filled and educational day for people of all ages”.
Craggaunowen recreates what life would have been like for the Bronze Age inhabitants of Ireland. Visitors can see a replica of a Crannóg (lake dwelling), a ring fort, an Iron Age roadway, and an outdoor cooking site. Also on display is the 'Brendan Boat' built by Tim Severin who sailed from Ireland to Newfoundland, re-enacting the voyage of St. Brendan, reputed to have discovered America nine centuries before Christopher Columbus.
Earlier this year, Clare County Council announced a €1m investment in the popular East Clare visitor attraction. Amongst the works earmarked for completion during 2024 is the upgrade of Craggaunowen’s signature crannógs and woven hut lake dwellings, along with the bridge that connects them to the remainder of the site. A new playground themed on St. Brendan’s Voyage will be developed, while significant upgrades to the public carpark, public toilet facilities, fencing and pathways will be carried out. Other developments include the installation of wayfinding signage throughout the site and an audio-visual experience to complement the 'Brendan Boat’.
The Craggaunowen Culture and Crafts Fair takes place on Saturday July 13th and Sunday 14th July from 11.00am to 5.00pm each day. Online bookings (standard rates apply) can be made on www.craggaunowen. ie.
lHISTORY: Craggaunowen’s resident craftsman (Arno) pictured ahead of the Culture & Crafts Fair and below Craggaunowen’s resident blacksmith (Uinseann)
Photo by Eamon Ward
SATURDAY, JULY 13TH + SUNDAY, JULY 14TH 2024
A Celebration of Irish Culture, Crafts and Creativity at Craggaunowen.
Join us on July 13th and 14th as Craggaunowen comes alive with local talent. Enjoy demonstrations and talks by artists and craftspeople like SIAR Photography, artist Helen Lowe, Wild Atlantic Glass, Allison Chillice Leatherwork, and more! Discover the rich heritage and enduring skills that define County Clare. Book Now: www.craggaunowen.ie
‘Informed decisions will be made’
ANEW report shows that Ennis is the largest town in the West of Ireland, while “informed investment decisions” following the publication.
People & Place consultants produced the Ennis socio-economic profile in partnership with Ennis Chamber. Their rigorous analysis of the 2022 Census supplemented by additional datasets on jobs profiles, house prices, rental prices and educational flows has resulted in an unparalleled socio-economic profile of the county town.
Ennis as per the report, has a population catchment in excess of 575,000 living within a one-hour drive, this is a larger one-hour population catchment of both Galway City and Limerick City.
Relative to other large towns in Ireland with a population greater than 10,000, Ennis ranks as the fourth largest town in Ireland, behind Drogheda, Dundalk and Navan.
It has the fifth highest number of working age persons of large towns in the country and the highest number for West of Ireland towns. Of the large towns in the country, Ennis has the seventh highest number of persons with a third level qualification, there are approximately 150,000 individuals with a third level qualification living within an hour of Ennis.
In recent years, nine out of every ten Ennis Leaving Certificate student progressed to a form of third level education. The most popular third level destinations are, University of Limerick (30%), TUS (18%), University of Galway (18%), Mary Immaculate College (9%).
Nearly 40% of Ennis resident workers commute to jobs outside the town, most commonly in Shannon and Limerick City.
Of the known jobs in Ennis, just under 50% are undertaken by Ennis resident workers. The remainder are undertaken by other Clare residents and workers from outside the county. As such, Ennis is the key economic driver for large parts of Clare.
Growth of Ennis is at a rate consistently higher than both Sligo and Athlone, relative to the key National Planning Framework (NPF) ‘regional centres’.
People & Place founder and Ennis native, Justin Gleeson explained, “The purpose of this document is to provide a solid evidence base to support future decision-making within Ennis. It is designed to serve a diverse audience including businesses and companies who can leverage this data to understand the local and regional markets, identify opportunities for growth, and make informed investment decisions”.
Local community groups and organisations can use the document
“to advocate for resources, planned community projects, and address local needs effectively, while students, researchers and academics can use the data for research purposes contributing to a deeper understanding of Ennis’s socio-economic landscape.
The public, including residents and interested parties, can gain insights into the town’s development and engage meaningfully with their community in a more informed manner,” he added.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin (FF) officially launched the socio-economic profile at the Inn at Dromoland for the annual Ennis Chamber President’s Lunch. Other politicians present included Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF), Senator Timmy Dooley (FF), Senator Roisin Garvey (GP), Billy Kelleher MEP (FF), Mayor of Clare, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF), Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) and Cllr Michael Shannon (FF). Senior officials in the Council including Director of Economic Development, Carmel Kirby and Head of Finance, Noeleen Fitzgerald were also in attendance.
Those from the business community in attendance included hotelier Allen Flynn, auctioneer Diarmuid McMahon, retailer Gwen Culligan, BEO founders Aoibhin Garrihy and Sharon Connellan, Brian McDowell and Fearghal Carroll of CupPrint, Gary Tierney of Tierney’s and plant manager of PPG Gerry Cahill.
CEO of Ennis Chamber, Margaret O’Brien addressing the launch looked to the crowd and remarked, “this isn’t just a room of quantity, it is a room of quality”. She introduced Ennis Chamber President, Sheila Lynch and outlined, “she is actually a saint” for agreeing to do a second term.
Ennis Chamber President, Sheila Lynch offered a warm welcome to all those in attendance and gave best wishes to Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) in her bid to become Deputy Leader of the Green Party and thanked Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) for helping to secure the presence of the Tánaiste. “One of the highlights of the annual President’s Lunch is meeting members,” she said. Sheila acknowledged the efforts of Justin Gleeson and his team at People & Place for producing the report.
Speaking at the launch of the socio-economic profile, the Tánaiste said “it is a particular pleasure to be with you this afternoon, it is one of my favourite towns in the country”.
‘Ennis is one of the top
ENNIS’ catchment population living within a one-hour drive is larger than that of Limerick and Galway City, according to a new report, writes Stuart Holly
A new report called ‘Ennis – a socio-economic profile’ produced by People & Place consultants, was launched at the Ennis Chamber President’s Lunch last Friday.
The report, using data from Census 2022, notes that the population of Ennis is 27,923, making it the largest town in the West of Ireland and the fourth biggest town in Ireland. Ennis has a catchment area of 181,335 within a 30-minute drive and a catchment of 575,828 within a one-hour drive, which is larger than both Limerick and Galway cities.
Justin Gleeson, author of the report and consultant/founder of People & Place, said, “The data confirms the status of En-
nis as one of the top tier towns in the country with enormous potential for sustainable development and economic growth in the coming decades.
“The central location of Ennis between the western cities of Galway and Limerick, the strength of the highly educated and skilled population within our catchment and our easy access to world class environmental and marine amenities makes Ennis a great option for future economic and civic investments.”
Mr Gleeson told The Clare Echo that the report “highlights how strong and positive a place Ennis is. Compared to towns like Sligo, Athlone, Kilkenny, Dundalk, we get a third of the investment these other towns have. We shouldn’t be happy with that. This report shows that Ennis should be attracting IDA investment and a
tier
couple of big companies would make an enormous difference to the town and county.
“When you live in Ennis you don’t realise how strong it is relative to other towns. In terms of education, population and what we have on our doorstep, there’s a unique opportunity here, the economic baseline of the town is growing with skilled people moving home with remote working, Ennis is in a really strong position to capitalise on these things.”
Ennis Chamber partnered People & Place to produce this insightful socio-economic profile of Ennis. Sheila Lynch, Ennis Chamber President commented, “This powerful fact-based document will assist stakeholders and investors to make well-informed decisions, promoting sustainable growth, while attracting new, much needed investment to Ennis.”
l Clara Malone and Justin Gleeson, People & Place (authors of Ennis- Socio Economic Profile) discuss
the Report with Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD
towns in Ireland’
Margaret O’Brien, CEO Ennis Chamber said, “The information and insights in this profile will greatly benefit and assist our locally elected public representatives and will help shape policy for Ennis.
The Ennis – Socio Economic Profile includes insights into the local and regional labour market, including skill and education levels, employment rates and commuting patterns.”
The socio-economic report, supported by Ennis Chamber, provides a detailed analysis of the town’s demographic, social and economic characteristics and compares the town’s performance with national and regional towns of similar size across Ireland.
It noted that Ennis has 18,228 residents of working age (15-64), adding that there are more than 370,000 people of working age within a one-drive of Ennis.
Less than half of resident workers in Ennis work in the town. Some 42 per cent work in Ennis, while almost 38 per cent leave Ennis for employ-
ment opportunities each day (19.5% elsewhere in Clare, 18.3 per cent outside the county). The remaining 20 per cent are mobile workers or their answer was illegible.
Of the known 10,628 jobs in Ennis, some 51 per cent of the workers come from elsewhere in Clare or outside the county (10%). According to the report, Ennis has the highest number of workers commuting to work in a private car of all large towns in the Midwest, and the 6th highest percentage when compared to large towns across the country. Ennis also has the second highest percentage in Ireland of students (2nd and 3rd level) commuting to education in a private car.
The 35-page report is available at https://www.ennischamber.ie/ wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Ennis_ SocioEconomicProfile_Census2022. pdf
Photo by Eamon Ward
THE Town Centre First Department of Clare County Council, in conjunction with Queen’s University Belfast, last week hosted a series of drop-in consultation sessions in Tulla, Lisdoonvarna and Clarecastle as part of the preparation of a Collaborative Town Centre Health Check report for the three locations.
A significant turnout from the local communities resulted in feedback being received on a range of issues including streets and spaces, natural spaces, feeling safe, traffic and parking.
A Collaborative Town Centre First Health Check report will be presented to Elected Members of Clare County Council and the communities in question in the autumn.
(CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT)
l Pictured L-R at the drop-in consultation at Clarecastle National School; Marie Lynch, Town Centre First; Neil Galway, Director of Postgraduate Education in Planning, Queen’s University Belfast; Seán Lenihan, Senior Engineer, Clare County Council; Paul Ellingstad, Circular Clarecastle;; Joan Tarmey, Town Regeneration Officer; Councillor Paul Murphy; Marie Clare Gorman, Clarecastle Community Development (CDP); Eric Shaw, Clarecastle Ballyea Heritage & Wildlife; Grainne McCormack, Town Centre First; and Mike Foley, CDP. Missing from photo is Sinead Doody of CDP.
l Councillor Tom O’Callaghan pictured (2nd from left) with members of the local community who attended the drop-in consultation at Clarecastle National School Photo by Eamon Ward
l Cllr. Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council addressing students of Queen’s University Belfast following the Collaborative Town Centre Health Check drop-in consultations. The event also was attended by Councillor Rita McInerney, Cathaoirleach of West Clare MD.
l Pictured L-R at The Ritz Hotel in Lisdoonvarna; Marie Lynch and Joan Tarmey of Clare County Council’s Town Centre First Department; Councillor Joe Garrihy and Niamh Wiley, Rural and Community Development Officer.
l Councillor Tommy Guilfoyle pictured (middle) with members of the local community in Clarecastle
Photo by Eamon Ward
Thought for the week: Slow work of God
RONAN SCULLY
“THE announcement from the aeroplane pilot in the cockpit was not welcome. Our plane was being held on the runway because of bad weather ahead on our flight path. Fifteen minutes passed, then 30, then an hour.
With almost every seat in the plane occupied, the passengers were already primed for irritability. As the delays mounted, they progressed from being restless to downright angry. Some cursed. Others threatened to sue the airline. We were witnessing what is now being called “air rage.” The only one who seemed unperturbed was the Poor Clare Nun seated next to me.
With her peaceful face and smile, dressed in long flowing brown robes, she sat calmly praying the rosary on her rosary prayer beads. Catching my eye,
she remarked: “This is an opportunity to practice the slow work of God by being patient.”
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
As your thought for the week, remember that patience is more than not getting upset while waiting for something. Patience is a virtue. It is God’s manifestation of His love, forgiveness and grace for each one of us. There is no right or wrong way to put patience into practice. But I want to encourage you that no matter the problem or challenge you are facing, try to follow these important tips that I am now giving you to help you through it and to cooperate with the Holy Spirit to become more patient. I promise it will work if you put in the effort! Slow down. Practice prayer and meditation. Practice acceptance. Read God’s Word. Pray for God to give you the faith you need to trust him with situations in which you need to wait. When you trust that God has your best interests at heart, you’ll find it easier to be patient. Think about
the ways God has worked in your life in the past, and expect more blessings in the future. Make it a habit of praying about anger or disappointment as it wells up within you, asking God to deal with the situations that cause frustration and give you the patience you need to persevere. Ask God to show how you can slow down your pace in life to better hear how he is guiding you.
Let me leave you with this Prayer for Patience that I like to pray regularly and that helps me in times when I need to practice the slow work of God by being patient; “Patient God, You give me so many opportunities to practice patience. Know that it is not easy, that I struggle to be serene. Give me what I need to find the calm within that helps me give patient love to others, to myself, and to You. May I endure every test of patience by slowing down, breathing deeply, and knowing that You are my God. Grant us the patience to endure difficult times and trust in your perfect timing. Amen.”
Beidh Maura
O’Connell
le feiceáil ar TG4 dé haoine
Legendary local singer Maura O'Connell to be the featured artist on ''Teach na Céibhe'' this Friday
Macalla an Chláir
LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA
BÍGÍ ag breathnú ar ‘’Teach na Céibhe’’ ar TG4 san oíche Dé hAoine beag seo, an 12ú d’Iúil, ag 12.15am, nuair a bheas an t-amhránaí cáiliúil ó Bhaile na hInse, Maura O’Connell, le cloisteáil ag rá cuide dá cuid ‘’hits’’.
AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH?
Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @ macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com
l AISLING GHÉAR: Maura O’Connell
Imeachtaí/Events:
• LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach
• Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM
• CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm
• INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com
• AN SCAIRBH – ‘’Lón i nGaeilge’’, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé ‘’An Gáirdín’’, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.
THE Clare Echo’s Denise Quinn set the pace in Week 1 of The Clare Echo’s Slimming World Challenge, losing an impressive half stone.
Head of Sales, Denise Quinn and her colleage, account manager Kieran Murphy are rising to the challenge of getting healthier by joining Slimming World.
DENISE’S WEEK 1
RESULTS
Off to a flying start, Denise has already shed half a stone just 7 days into her journey. Having set a target of two stone weight loss over the 12 weeks, she’s already a quarter of the way there! Here, Denise tells us about her journey.
on but improved as the week went and also started drinking more water which I really felt helped me.
What did you learn?
I was surprised that I could eat potatoes, rice and pasta and learned alot about super food and Syns which helped me make the right choices.
On the Slimming World Plan I am eating triple the amount I usually would, which frightened me but the results at proved you can eat as much as you want once you are eating the right food.
What are you most proud of?
My big achievement was swapping out bread and eating Rivitta cracker breads which I enjoyed and felt great after as I was not feeling bloated. I also went out to Paddy Quinn’s Bar to watch the hurling and for the first time in my life enjoyed socialising without alcohol.
KIERAN’S WEEK 1 RESULTS
It was also a positive start for Kieran who lost 2lbs in his first week. How did Week 1 go for you?
this week I’m changing from bread to Ryvita. My most challenging time is the evening meal. We cook fresh every day but I must look at my portion sizes. What did you learn?
At lunchtime I’m sticking to salad with turkey/chicken every day and I am really surprised I do not miss the bread/ wrap.The nighttime snacking is still very hard. Denise and Kieran will keep readers up to date every week as they attend weekly Slimming World meetings at any of the following venues: Louise - Launching
How did Week 1 go for you?
I had great results this week with a 7 lb loss, which I was delighted with. It was a challenge getting used to choosing the right foods and being creative with meal plans. I struggled with food prep early
Sculpted!
Style, Beauty and Lifestlye
It has been an interesting week. I thought I was doing well until we had a BBQ on Sunday. I didn’t “do the dog” on it but did go outside my syn allowance.
In the mornings, I have cut down on the cereal and only have one slice of toast. From
Rachel Porter @rachels_day_
HAVEN Pharmacy Hollys Ennis have a large range of SCULPTED by Aimee skincare and makeup in store. If you have ever tried SCULPTED you are probably as obsessed as I am with this Irish brand - and if you haven’t tried it yet, why not?
The SCULPTED Bronze Base Face Tan (€23) are gentle self-tanning drops which create a natural sun-kissed warmth that develops over six to eight hours and lasts for two to three days. I mix it into my night cream and wake up to the
most radiant glow. It comes in Light-Medium and Medium-Dark so you can choose the shade that most suits you. The SCULPTED Liquid Lights (€21) gives an effortless flush of colour that is long lasting. This lightweight liquid formula blends seamlessly to create a pop of colour on the face. This blush comes in three wearable shades including Pink Pop, Real Rosy & Peachy Keen - my favourite being Real Rosy! If you are look ing for even more of a glow this range
has you covered. The SCULPTED Cream Luxe (€19) is perfect for dabbing onto the high parts of the face for a radiant, dewy glow. This cream highlighter also comes in three unique shades; Champagne Cream, Pearl Pop & Bronze Gold - I can’t decide which one I love more. SCULPTED has the most incredible makeup brushes - my entire collection is from this brand! What I love most are the double ended brushes, especially the Powder Duo Brush (€19). One end features a wide angled blush brush
while the other has a fluffy powder brush. My holy grail SCULPTED product has to be the HydraLip (€18). It gives lips the ultimate sweep of colour, hydration and moisture and is available in a massive six different shades. The HydraLip is super pigmented whilst being extremely hydrating - I can best describe them as a lipstick and lip oil combo. All the sculpted products are Vegan Friendly and not tested on animals which I think is extremely important. Be sure to call into Hollys to check out the SCULPTED stand - you are sure to find products you love.
Engineer to 'bring hard hat' to Hermitage
A COMMITMENT has been issued by the senior executive engineer in the Ennis Municipal District to meet with residents in Hermitage to discuss their frustrations over resurfacing works, writes Páraic McMahon
Last August over a threeday period contractors resurfaced the entire road in Hermitage. The finished product, the method of spraying chip on top of concrete without a base, subsequent pooling of water, aesthetics and the splashing of paint along the walls outside houses in the estate were all criticised by residents since.
Speaking at the July meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) flagged the matter and thanked Cllr Mary Howard (FG) for highlighting it in March. “Being from the area I got it a lot on the canvass. I understand the senior engineer agreed to carry out inspection in both wet and dry surface, I would like an update on that and a timeline for remedial works to take place”.
Senior executive engineer, Paddy Tiernan said he has visited Hermitage “numerous times” and acknowledged that there were “some minor issues with ponding”. He said a gully is two metres away from where it should be located and that it will be moved “but it will take a month or two to get there”.
Tiernan continued, “I am happy to visit the site with you and the residents to walk through it at any time, that was the area where we felt work was required”. He explained, “It is not as simple as rip it out and put it something different, many people may not understand that because it is a concrete road”.
Cllr Baker Bashua said she would love to welcome the engineer to Hermitage. “I don't have an issue with the surface, it was just put down wrong, I'm happy to show you with my layman's opinion and not with an engineering degree, I am happy to bring you on a quiet day” to which Tiernan quipped that he’d “bring a hard hat” with him.
'Collective positive mood needed’ - Micheál Martin
FOR Ennis 2040 to progress there must be a positive collective mood towards the plan, the Tánaiste has said, writes Páraic McMahon.
Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin (FF) was in Newmarket-on-Fergus on Friday to launch Ennis Chamber’s socio-economic profile on the county town.
He said Ennis was “one of my favourite towns in the country” when addressing the Ennis Chamber President’s Lunch and pointed out that one of the few visits to the town that he didn’t enjoy occurred last year when the Clare senior footballers then managed by Colm Collins secured a first championship win over Cork since 1997 following a late point from Cillian Rouine of Ennistymon.
Speaking to The Clare Echo following the launch, the leader of Fianna Fáil stated, “I’ve known Ennis a long time, in my earliest days as politics as an opposition spokesperson on Education I came down to here to an INTO conference and I’ve been coming to teaching conferences here for a long time. I have had breaks here, I like Ennis as a town, I come to football and hurling matches here, it is a beautiful town. Ennis’s socio-economic profile, the population growth is significant
but what I thought was very significant was the population growth in the catchment areas of 6,000 more which is a very sizeable region catchment area for Ennis so the potential is enormous”.
While he was advised that discussing Ennis 2040 was akin to a political grenade, the former Taoiseach voluntarily brought up the economic and spatial plan which has caused much division among the business community and elected representatives within the town and county.
“I think the town plan and the 2040 plan, everyone is saying ‘stay out of it’, the only objective observation I would say is that people will have pros and cons, plusses and minuses, they will support one aspect of the plan and not another but it is very important there is a de gree of positivity around it because others watching in will say ‘has this town got its act together, is this town heading in the right direction’, that in itself brings investment and people
see it as a town that is looking ahead into the future, that is why that document is important, it is a marketing document for Ennis, I’ve seen it in the past historically when people get knotted in one aspect of an overall plan that it can bring a negativity about the overall town which doesn’t help,” he stated.
Approval of the planning act in September will assist such plans, he believed. “I would say we have to from a national point of view create better planning processes and the new planning act when it is through in September will make a big difference to the planning system, streamline it and have better timelines for people applying and the framework around the judicial review. Digital and renewable is where the future is alongside the lifesciences and technology. If you look in the Mid-West, Analog has been a huge investor, Eli Lily is a very significant investment and they are there for the long-haul, Clare will benefit from that and Ennis will benefit from that, you’ve to try create opportunities on how you benefit from that”.
LOTS of gardens have borders which suit different purposes, and one of my favourites is the beds that are grown to make floral arrangements. Many perennials and shrubs are great for cut flower arrangements due to their long-lasting blooms and attractive appearance.
Here are some of the most popular ones.
Pittosporum, a lovely shrub that comes in a few varieties, is a popular choice for floral arrangements due to its glossy foliage.
Eucalyptus, another large shrub that can be grown into a tree, is an excellent choice for floral arrangements. It is known for its aromatic foliage and distinctive silvery blue colour, adding a unique texture and fragrance to bouquets.
Roses are a classic, with a range of fragrant blooms and vibrant colours.
Lilies have striking colours and lovely fragrant flowers, and they come in a wide range of colours.
Hydrangeas, which are shrubs with clusters of large flowers, add a showy piece to any arrangement.
Phlox are tall perennials with clusters of fragrant, starshaped flowers that are highly scented.
Astilbe, with feathery plumes of flowers in different shades, can give a touch of height.
Shasta Daisies, with classic white petals and yellow centres, are perfect for a cheerful arrangement.
These are just some of the wonderful perennials and shrubs that can create a lovely flower arrangement to bring indoors.
Tips for this week: Continue to deadhead flowers in pots and borders, and remove any damaged leaves from plants. Remember to continue watering even if it rains, as plants can be so leafy that rainwater doesn’t always penetrate pots or water beds sufficiently.
Mostly, enjoy the garden as it blooms this July.
lAstilbe
Airport’s new mobile app is first to feature augmented reality
SHANNON Airport has launched a new mobile app which boasts the first of its kind features, writes Páraic McMahon
Designed to make the customer experience even easier at Shannon Airport, the new app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Making the journey smoother at Shannon is the inclusion of smart watch integration, a first of its kind with customers able to receive real time flight tracking updates and push notification directly to their smart watch. This means passengers are updated in real time on the live status of departing and arriving flights, check-in status, baggage carousel information, gate statuses, and flight delays or cancellations.
In another first, the Shannon Airport app will also offer users an Augmented Reality bag size checker, where passengers can measure their bag size at home using the measurement tool on the app, to ensure it complies with specific airline guidelines for carry-on luggage. Car parking at Shannon Airport will also be even more streamlined with the introduction of the new app. Apple and Google Pay functions will allow passengers to pay for their parking with just the click of a button on their phone. They will also be able to easily locate their car upon their return to Shannon with the ‘Pin My Car’ feature, another first for an Irish airport app.
Customers will also be able to access Shannon Airport’s route destinations, making the travel planning process even easier, while its interactive map feature will ensure passengers can easily navigate their way through the airport, from check-in and duty free to the airport’s restaurants and departure gates.
Trevor Curran, Marketing Manager at Shannon Airport commented, “Here at Shannon Airport, we are committed to delivering a seamless travel experience, focusing on customer satisfaction and innovation. The launch of this new app underscores our commitment to enhancing passenger con-
venience and embracing cutting-edge technology.
“We are proud to be the first airport in Ireland to offer app features like smartwatch integration and augmented reality bag size checkers and we can’t wait to see what our passengers think. Customers will also be able
to access exclusive discounts and special offers via the app”.
Munster Rugby players including Barefield’s Ethan Coughlan along with Fineen Wycherley and Oli Jager were in Shannon Airport on Tuesday to officially launch the new app.
Shannon Airport authorities unable to quantify cost of closure from alleged runway incursion
SHANNON Airport had to be closed for 35 minutes to air traffic on March 30th as a result of an alleged incursion into the runway area by three anti-war activists, a court has heard, writes Gordon Deegan Det Sgt Kevin O’Hagan of Shannon Garda Station told Ennis District Court that it will be alleged that the three anti-war activists sat down on the ground near where aircraft were parked and had to be removed by a Garda. In the case, the three are charged with interfering with the operation, man-
agement and safety of Shannon Airport by entering the runway area and causing the closure of the airport on March 30th contrary to Section 47 of the Air Navigation Act and Transport (Amendment) Act, 1998. The three, Emer Walshe (32) of Fernhill, North Circular Rd, Limerick; Aine Ni Threinir (33) of Cuirt Na Tra, Salthill, Galway and Aindriu De Buitleir - 28 on Friday of Til Na Nog, Bothar An Tismein, An Cheathru Run, Gaillimhe were charged with trespass at the West Apron at Shannon Airport.
The three - including two mem-
bers of the Galway Palestine Solidarity Campaign (GPSC) - were protesting at the US military use of Shannon airport. On the new 'airport closure' charge, Garda Kevin Hynes said that the three made no reply after caution before court. Sgt John Burke told the court that the new charge against the three is in addition to the trespass charge.
Det O’Hagan said that the alleged incursion resulted in the airport having to be closed for 35 minutes.
He said that a scheduled Ryanair flight due to take off had to stopped from doing so as the three were in
the vicinity.
Judge Alec Gabbett asked about the costs to the airport from the shutdown and Det O’Hagan said that airport authorities were not able to quantify costs of the closure.
Det O’Hagan said, “They can’t provide a quantifiable cost.”
Det Sgt O’Hagan said that at the time of the alleged incursion “it will be alleged that the three accused walked in an area that is not traversed at all by people”.
Det O’Hagan said that after authorities became aware of the alleged incursion, there was a may-
day landing and an aircraft with engine trouble had to come to land, which is completed.
Solicitor for the three, Tara Godfrey said that Mr De Buitleir wanted to tell the court why he did what he did on the day. Judge Gabbett said that he would decide next week if he would accept jurisdiction in the case or send the case to the circuit court where a Book of Evidence would be required. Judge Gabbett said that he would giving his ruling on jurisdiction on July 10th and told Mr De Buitleir he could speak in court on that date.
lSTRESS FREE: Ethan Coughlan, Fineen Wycherley and Oli Jager at Shannon Airport for the launch of the airport’s new mobile app
Photo by Arthur Ellis
‘Campervans flouting the system’
CAMPERVANS are flouting the system in Lahinch by paying €20 to leave their vehicles abandoned in the coastal town, a county councillor has claimed, writes Páraic McMahon
Criticism of Clare County Council and An Garda Síochána for failing to implement enacted by-laws on overnight camping was slammed by Cllr Bill Slattery (FG).
Speaking to The Clare Echo, he said there is a growing annoyance in Lahinch with campervans paying €4 per day or €20 for five days to leave their vehicles taking up prime spots on the promenade car park in one of the most prominent spots in the town. In the past week, four vans remained in situ for five days. He said the persons involved are not holiday makers, “the word is out that you can park your campervan, pay €4 and leave it there for the day or pay €20 for the five days and leave it there without any interruption. Clare County Council and An Garda Síochána are not enforcing the by-laws”.
At Monday’s sitting of the Council, Cllr Slattery said both the local authority and Gardaí were “falling down in their duties in moving on campervans”.
He revealed he had identified a site in Lahinch would be suitable for overnight parking and that he raised the matter with the planning section of the Council but “straight away there are obstacles because of the County Development Plan”.
Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) at the meeting had proposed the roll-out of new camping site models “due to (a) significant shortage
Tubber Fair returns
THE Tubber Fair is making a grand return this weekend from Friday, 12th July to Sunday, 14th July. The event will be hosted by the newly renovated Burren Inn, formerly known as O'Grady’s, which reopened its doors in October 2022. The Tubber Fair promises a weekend full of fun and community spirit.
The weekend kicks off with the Tubber Sheep Fair on Friday. All sheep are welcome. No entry fee or commission, with cash prizes for the winners.
Saturday is Family Day, packed with exciting events for all ages. The activities start at 4 pm with a dog show, followed by a bonny baby competition and a grow your own veg competition at 5 pm. At 6pm, local children from the Slevin School of Dancing will perform. Special guests Sami Jo & Maddie Rose, a duo from Nashville, Tennessee, will also perform on Saturday.
On Sunday, the fair will conclude with a Community Set Dance, followed by a traditional music session featuring a special guest. Throughout the weekend, a fundraiser will be held for the local National Schools, Tubber Boston & Lurga NS. Support for this worthy cause is encouraged.
in tourism accommodation”. Such a move “would create much needed overnight accommodation instantly benefiting many urban and rural communities,” he maintained.
Acting Director of Tourism Development with the Council, John O’Malley said the Council are working closely with Fáilte Ireland in the creation of an accommodation toolkit for the county "that supports the sustainable growth of tourist accommodation". This "involves researching alternative options for tourist accommodation whilst balancing the site-specific sensititives of the landscape in various parts of the county" such as motorhome and campervan provision, shepherds huts, pods, treehouse accommodation, off grid and aire de service.
O'Malley said a business prospectus for Clare is under development and is focusing on two target audiences, inbound investors for hotels and extensions and also entrepreneurs for the provision of outdoor accommodation.
He confirmed an online webinar event will be scheduled in September in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland "and experts in the area of off grid accommodation to provide information on planning considerations particularly in highly sensitive areas including options for wastewater and water services".
Seconding the proposal, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) requested that the planning department in the Council form an “integral part” of the scheduled webinar. Cllr Shane Talty (FF) noted that the Director was “very open” to working on the motion by his party colleague.
'What has happened' - Pier plans at standstill
PLANS for the Doolin Pier visitor services building are currently at a standstill, writes Páraic McMahon Since April, Clare County Council have been
trying to source extra funding from the Department of Rural and Community Development to progress the Doolin Pier Visitor Services Building to statutory consent stage.
In 2019, planning permission was granted for the visitor centre. The Council had signalled their intent to submit a planning application for the visitor centre with An Bord Pleánala at the end of 2022 with the hope of gaining approval by the second quarter of 2023. The handover of the site had previously been earmarked for 2024.
However in his monthly management report for July, Chief Executive of the County Council, Pat Dowling stated that that following the latest meeting with the Department “the Council are reviewing the proposal and the options for delivery including resources required”.
This was noted by Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) who pointed out at Monday’s meeting of the Council that category two funding to the tune of €465,000 was granted in 2019. “What has happened,” he asked. “We really need to focus on that project”.
Director of Physical Development, Alan Farrell said they will be holding another meeting with the Department and will “engage directly with elected representatives”. He admitted, “there’s some issues on funding and we’re trying to get additional funding”. Dowling told the meeting, “Doolin is still very much front and centre in the context of our plans”. He committed to giving councillors a more detailed update.
lOBSTACLES: Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) Photo by John Mangan
Poor Clares of Galway celebrate 375th anniversary of Nuns’ Island
THE Poor Clares of Galway recently commemorated the 375th anniversary of the granting to them of the Nuns’ Island site by the Galway Corporation, a landmark event that took place on 10th July 1649. This historic grant, made under the mayoralty of William Blake, has been pivotal in the enduring presence and mission of the Poor Clares in Galway.
In celebration of this significant milestone, the Poor Clares welcomed the current Mayor of Galway, Councillor Peter Keane, for a special visit. During his visit, Mayor Keane had the unique opportunity to view the original deed of the land grant, which is meticulously preserved in the archives of the Galway Poor Clares. This document, a treasured artifact of Galway’s rich history, symbolises the deep-rooted connection between the city and the Poor Clares.
Councillor Peter Keane expressed his admiration and respect for the longstanding dedication and contribution of the Poor Clares to the community. He said: "It's an absolute honour and a privilege for me as Mayor of Galway to be in the presence of the Poor Clare Sisters on this historic occasion of the 375th anniversary of
the granting of the petition of Mother Mary Bonaventure Browne to locate the Order in what can only be described as a spiritual sanctuary in the heart of our city and I wish to extend my thanks and congratulations to the Poor Clares for all they contribute to our wonderful city."
The petition to the Corporation of the third Abbess of Galway Mother Bonaventure Browne for the 'Island adjoining the Bridge of Illaunaltenagh' in 1649 allowed the Poor Clares to establish a convent and continue their mission of prayer, contemplation, and service. Over the centuries, the convent has been a place of solace and spirituality, adapting to the changing times while remaining true to its foundational values.
Sister Colette, Abbess of the Galway Poor Clares, reflected on the anniversary, saying, “This 375th anniversary is not only a celebration of our past but also an inspiration for our future. The original deed is a testament to the faith and commitment of our forebears and a reminder of our enduring relationship with the people of Galway. We are deeply grateful for the continued support of the community and the recognition from Mayor Keane.”
Final preparations are underway for Gort Show
GORT & District Show company are delighted to be back this year and are celebrating their 40th Show which takes place on Saturday 10th August 2024 at Gort community Centre and Gort Community School grounds.
The show whose main sponsor is Gort Credit Union, promises to be a fun and enjoyable day out for all the family as usual, with competitions in garden produce, flowers, baking, arts & crafts, children's section and post primary section.
The All Ireland Photography final takes place on the day with a prize fund of €500 and with photography classes for amateurs and professionals and there will be an array of photos on display.
The official opening is at 1pm with special guest, Galway Camogie Superstar, Aine Keane cutting the tape. There will be lots of children's entertainment including face-painting, puppet show and juggler and live music throughout the day including the local trad group
of Comhaltas Gaillimh Theas, the wonderful voice of Bernie O’Shea and local talent Amy McCarthy & James Ruffles.
The Bonny Baby competition and Glamorous Granny competitions on the day always provide a sense of fun.
There will be crafts, art and food stands and baking and crafts demonstrations. Unfortunately due to a lack of suitable grounds being available the Pat O’Donnell Dog show cannot go ahead this year. The monster Raffle will take place on the day with cards available to buy locally from now and on the show day.
Schedules are now available in local shops, on our Gort Show Facebook page or by contacting the show secretaries Triona & Kate at gortshow@gmail.com.
Entries for the competitions will close at 5pm on Friday 26th July.
Anybody looking to book a Trade Stand space can also contact the email address to enquire.
The Community Centre is open for drop off of any indoor un-perishable entries on the Friday evening before the show and entrants are urged to avail of that where possible to avoid the morning rush and this gets you into a free Early Bird draw for some lovely prizes.
Cash is still King at Gort & District Show and as there are no card facilities on site, please come prepared. Due to restricted parking, we recommend that people arrive early or park away from the Community Centre where possible on the day. With a gate charge of just €10 per adult and children going free, it’s a great family day out. We look forward to welcoming you all on the day, don’t forget to bring the sunshine.
lAMAZING: Sr. Colette, Mother Abbess of the Poor Clare Community in Galway pictured with Mayor of Galway Peter Keane at a commemoration of the 375th anniversary of the granting of the Nuns’ Island site by Galway Corporation
Harbour Festival to recount story of the famine
SCARIFF’S Harbour Festival will tell the story of the famine in East Clare, writes Páraic McMahon
A three-hour 6km guided tour, focusing on the catastrophic human events of the mid-nineteenth century, will highlight the often-unnoticed landmarks in and around the harbour village.
Located on Drewsborough Road, the Scariff Workhouse was designed to accommodate 600 people by English architect, George Wilkinson. Built in 1841, to a broadly standardised courtyard design, the living quarters were at the centre with segregated sleeping quarters to the sides. Roofed by ‘penny-green’ slates from Killaloe, so called because they had a tint of green and cost one penny each, the coffin house structure still stands at the side of the road.
Local historian Micheál Pearl will lead the tour with his brother Martin, he said, “This is a time to remember all those who suffered and died, who lived and loved, during the Famine of 1845. On this famine walk and at sites along the way, we will endeavour to re-enact the physical and emotional journey of some of those who trod the same path with little or no hope”. He acknowledged the permission and co-operation of the Grogan Family, on whose property the Old Workhouse stands.
Other famine landmarks include the elegant, sandstone Workhouse Water Tower on the Feakle Road and the Famine Memorial Graveyard, between Tuamgraney and Bodyke, which was opened in 1997. The workhouse cooking pot can be seen at the entrance and a large unused stone grinding wheel from the period.
To complement the Famine Walk, historian and genealogist, Jane Halloran Ryan will tell us why Drewsborough is called Drewsborough, why the road to Flagmount is known locally as the Norbury Line and will relate stories of colonels and doctors in Moynoe. Her talk at the Edna O’Brien Library on Saturday 3rd will focus on the Landlords and Landowners of East Clare and their influence on the locality and the legacy they left. It will bring alive, with on-screen visuals, the backstory of Scariff in the mid to late 19th and early 20th centuries.
In addition, she will provide free individual genealogy sessions on both Saturday and Sunday for people interested in pursuing their own family history. These will be especially helpful, not only for starters, but also for people who have found themselves meeting apparent search blocks along the way. Information on and access to relevant websites will be available.
Pre-booking is required for genealogy sessions and Bus Tour of the Famine Way (Sunday only) - see festival programme on www.scariff.ie.
Scariff a sadder place with passing of Marie McInerney
SCARIFF has “one fewer friend” and is “a sadder place” following the death of Marie McInerney who was considered an integral part of the fabric of the East Clare town, writes Páraic McMahon
On Sunday afternoon, word filtered through Scariff that Marie had died bringing a sense of shock and sadness across East Clare.
As the last direct surviving member of the McInerney family in Scariff, her passing marks the end of an era.
Her grandfather Tom was a founding Director of Aicher Chipboard (Scariff) and founder of McInerney Properties. Under the joint direction of his sons, Amby & Dan, the firm became the first ‘volume builders’ in the state.
In 1971, the company went public with Amby as Chair and McInerney Holdings expanded into the Gulf States and into Spain & Portugal. Amby remained loyal to Scariff and when the factory went into receivership, he became Chair of Chipboard Products Ltd, to save it from closure.
In 1962, Marie joined the office workforce and she remained there until her retirement, building up fond memories with her many colleagues down through the decades.
She made history when becoming the first woman to serve as secretary of a GAA club when getting elected to the post in Scariff in the 1960s, this feat was a source of great pride for her. She was in the role of secretary of the Park Committee in 1982 for the official opening of the Scariff GAA Grounds and Community Centre, the celebration included a challenge match between Clare and Galway.
Indeed their work is credited locally with laying the foundations for the excellent facilities presently at the club. She also served as treasurer of the club.
Within GAA circles, the McInerney name was well known. Marie’s grandfather, Tom, captained Scariff to its second ever senior championship victory in 1917. Tom had been on the losing side playing for O’Callaghans Mills in 1907 when Scariff won their first title although he had won a senior medal for the Mills in 1906.
Marie’s four uncles, Dan, Amby, Frank and Vincent all featured for Scariff in the 1946 senior hurling final in a memorable victory over Feakle. Frank and Dan featured again in the 1952 Scariff triumph and both were joined by Vincent in the 1953 victory.
Indeed in all five of Scariff championship wins, there were McInerneys playing for one side or the other. Dan went on to enjoy a long career with Clare in the 1950s.
Paying tribute to Marie, a spokesperson for Scariff GAA club stated, “We had lost one of our own, someone that was part of everyday life in Scariff, a friendly voice, someone who would always stop for a chat, a lady who was Scariff to the core.
“It was a sudden passing and while she did have health issues in more recent years her personality and her good nature was what we only saw. There was also a sense of incongruity that given her life story, she passed during what was the most important hurling weekend of the year so far.
“Marie lived to see her beloved Clare reach
the All-Ireland senior hurling final and would have been overjoyed with that”.
He continued, “As well as her GAA, Marie loved her television. There’s a story told of one park committee meeting where discussion was quite heated. At a crucial point of the meeting Marie, the secretary got up to leave. ‘Where are you going Marie? We’re not finished yet’, ‘I know’ said Marie ‘but Dallas is on’ whereupon she left the meeting to the incredulity of some GAA diehards”.
The spokesperson added, “After her retirement Marie was to be found out walking for exercise in Scariff and Drewsboro. She had also joined the new gym at the GAA clubhouse and she enjoyed the benefits of exercise. Marie had the strength and the resilience during her life to take on and overcome her health issues. Above all she enjoyed living in Church St. Scariff. meeting her friends and neighbours, stopping for the chat on her way to and from the shops and frequently going up to the café and meeting people there.
“Her interest in hurling was lifelong. Her beloved Clare and Scariff teams were so important to her and in more recent years when her health didn’t allow her to attend as many games, she still followed their progress in the media. It was poignant this week to see Clare and Scariff flags still adorn her house as we prepare to bid her farewell.
“We have one fewer friend in Scariff this week, one less person to chat to and to look forward to the All-Ireland with. We have lost one of the ‘old stock’ and Scariff will be all the sadder for her passing”.
l The late Marie McInerney
Annual Lough Derg rally brings boat load of smiles to Dromann Harbour
lON THE WATER: The annual Lough Derg Rally run by the Inland Waterways of Ireland Association (IWIA) sees a
of boats navigate the harbours of Lough
and is celebrated with music, food, extravaganzas, workshops, games and fabulous family activities for all
flotilla
Derg
ages. Pictured at Dromann Harbour were (clockwise from top left): Tom Doheny showing the turf he uses in the barge; Danny & Faye Wright with Charlotte Mulcahy; Jeannie Devereux with Barbera & Peter Mechel; A boat built in 1846 joins the festivities; Stephan O’Flynn with his four legged friend; The Becker family from Galway & New York; Emily McGrory (Commodore); Darieha & Brian Leahy (Harbour Control) Photos by John Mangan
Yacht that ran aground in Kilkee departs for Northern Ireland
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
ALMOST a week after a yacht ran aground at Kilkee Beach, the vessel has been transported out of Co Clare.
Last Wednesday a stranded yacht emerged on Kilkee Beach and it remained there until Tuesday when specialist equipment was needed to help transport it off the beach and back to Northern Ireland via road.
Skipper of the yacht, Bangor native Nigel Kearney and his two friends were asleep on the yacht before discovering that they had run aground. The trio managed to avoid any injuries and got off the vessel safely, this followed the mooring giving way at around 9am on Wednesday morning which he described as a “rude awakening”.
The Down man had undertaken a long-time goal of sailing around Ireland before the drama unfolded and this led to the 30ft Alikadoo becoming one of the most photographed attractions in West Clare while it was moored in Kilkee.
Nigel explained, “I am recently retired, I have been a sailor all my life and I always wanted to sail around the island of Ireland, I have done a lot of smaller trips but this was a dream to do it all in one attempt, not without stopping but I set aside eight weeks for this, I was slightly halfway through when it all came tumbling down last Wednesday”. He added, “I was en route from Fenit in Co Kerry to Kilronan in Inis Mór on the Aran Islands, we
lBEACHED: The 30ft Alikadoo stranded on Kilkee beach and (inset) on its way home
set sail with a very favourable forecast which unfortunately deteriorated as we went along and the sea became very lumpy and confused, we had a rough passage around Kerry Head and Loop Head, my crew were feeling a bit queasy because of the lumpy conditions we
weren’t going as fast as we predicted we would go so the arrival time in Kilronan was going to be after dark and I wasn’t very happy about coming in after dark because I hadn’t been there before. In the interest of safety I decided to divert to Kilkee, we have on board very good navi-
gation equipment, information and books, I consulted all of those and researched that there were some available moorings which locals were very happy for visiting yachts to use, in the interest of safety and comfort we pulled in there”.
How the people of Kilkee have responded to offer assistance has “blown me away,” Nigel admitted. “We have been smothered with kindness, advice and offers of accommodation in holiday homes and free transport, storage for our gear, meals, everything”.
Notice to Land Owners or Turbary Rights Holders on Raised Bog Designated Areas
The Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme will remain open to new applicants until 30 September 2024.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage operates the Cessation of Turf Cutting Compensation Scheme (CTCCS). The scheme was established in 2011 for domestic turf cutters affected by the cessation of turf cutting on designated raised bogs.
Successful new applicants will qualify for a single €24,100 payment exempt from capital gains tax.
This compensation payment does not require the transfer of lands or turbary rights.
To qualify for the CTCCS scheme applicants must have:
• Been cutting turf on the designated bog during the five-year period up to the official cessation year;
• A legal interest /ownership or turbary right in the designated raised bog prior to May 2010;
• Remaining turbary on their plot that is not exhausted; and
• Submitted a completed application form by 30 September 2024. Further information and applications forms are available:
• On the NPWS website: www.npws.ie/ctccs
• By phone on 053 911 7353
• By emailing designated.bogs@npws.gov.ie
Grant application submitted for multi-million euro arena
A GRANT application has been submitted for a multi-million euro indoor sports complex in Kilrush, writes Páraic McMahon
Officials in Clare County Council last week submitted the application for the multi-million euro project in West Clare. The application was submitted under the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund, the €124m Government initiative was launched in April of this year and allows local authorities and national governing bodies of sport to apply for between €600,000 and €30 million for infrastructural projects.
Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) told the AGM of the West Clare Municipal District that “a brilliant application went in” and was compiled in “a very short timeframe”. He singled out the contribution of Colette Browne along with West Clare MD Directors, Jason Murphy and John
O’Malley.
He said, “If this grant application is successful this will be a significant multimillion euro investment for West Clare. For years we have built a case that an indoor facility is needed in West Clare and today we move one step closer to the possibility of this being a reality”.
Pat Sexton of Clare Sports Partnership was among those involved in the working group
while the business case was finalised by Tom O’Leary with Stephen O’Sullivan organising the design and Padraig Neylon was responsible for the concept design.
To date there has already been “a huge effort made by everyone to get this across the line,” the Kilrush councillor noted. “Hopefully we will hear in the near future on the applications success,” he added.
via road Photos by John Mangan
Summer of music continues at bookshop
MUSICIANS from Ireland and the USA will be bringing some unique sounds to Kilrush this month, for the latest in a series of ‘Cosy Concerts’ at Banner Books.
Folk duo Ru O’Shea and Sarah Szucs will be performing in Kilrush on Friday, July 12th. Ru is an Offaly-born, Dublin-based folk musician, who works primarily in Arts and Healthcare. Sarah is a Waterford-born, Tipperary-based singer-songwriter with an extensive repertoire of original songs. Regulars at festivals from Birr Vintage Week to the Electric Picnic, they are very much looking forward to bringing it back to county Clare.
Serpentine is a seven-voice women’s choir based out of Bulbancha / New Orleans, dedicated to healing personal and systemic trauma and re-building human connection with the earth. Their songs are stories of resilience, joy, softness and transformation. The choir believes that songs change the shape of culture, and call forth
change and justice. They are touring in Ireland throughout the month, and you can catch them in Kilrush on Thursday, July 18th.
The Cosy Concert series is a new venture, set up earlier this year by the voluntary arts organisation,
Silverwood Events. Led by Kilrush resident Lily de Sylva, they aim to provide a programme of affordable events for local people and a fair deal for performers. Ticket prices are flexible, to keep the events open to as many people as possible.
The standard ticket price is a guideline, but there are also donation options so people can pay what they can afford. Costs are kept to a minimum, and all profits go straight to the musicians.
“Our local pubs have always been great to support musicians,” says Lily, “but not everyone is comfortable in the pub, and not every type of music works in that environment. So, we are delighted that other local businesses are stepping up to provide an alternative. Banner Books have been very supportive, and the shop is the perfect setting for immersing yourself in the music.”
Kilrush art group dip into nature’s palette for show
CLARE Arts Office, in conjunction with Cultúrlann Sweeney, is delighted to present ‘Nature’s Palette,’ an art exhibition by Kilrush Art Group.
Kilrush Art Group was founded in the early 1970s, making it one of the most established local art groups around. Currently there are 21 active members, welcoming an additional 5 new artists this year. It is supported by the skilful guidance of group leader and local artist Pauline Dunleavy.
Predominately west Clare folks, members are a mixed palette of ages, styles and skills. It would be fair to say they are open to challenges, constantly striving to learn new techniques and skills. They use a vast variety of mediums and are continuously engaging in workshops throughout the year. They love to try fresh artistic ideas. Currently they are working in oils, watercolours, charcoal, felting, encaustic and acrylic paints.
For tickets, and details of upcoming events, visit Silverwood Events on social media or text/WhatsApp them on 089 244 0068.
As a very active group, they are fortunate to host visiting tutors from all over the world, opening up their experiences of west Clare.
These include artists such as John Dinan, Jessica Henry, Watercolourist Keiko, Michael Wann and encaustic tutor Isabelle Gabroit to name but a few. Their inspiration is often from local influences; the wild landscapes and seascapes of County Clare are an impressive and rich source of interest. Their annual exhibitions take place during the summer months.
This year they are fortunate enough to have both a venue in Kilkee Library in July and Kilrush Library in August.
Nature’s Palette is this year’s theme and they are very excited to share their work with you. They meet every Friday evening to paint, chat and share ideas. It is lots of fun and a safe and welcoming environment to explore creativity together. So, if you are feeling the urge to pick up a brush, then please join them at Kilrush Art Group. A warm and friendly welcome awaits. This free exhibition will run until 3rd August 2024 at Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee, and everyone is welcome.
MENOPAUSE is a challenging phase in a woman’s life, often bringing a host of uncomfortable symptoms due to the significant drop in oestrogen levels. At OxyGeneration in Galway we understand these challenges and are committed to offering effective solutions. One such solution is hyperbaric oxygenation (HBOT), a treatment that has shown remarkable benefits for female health, particularly for menopausal women.
The decline in oestrogen during menopause can lead to a range of issues, including joint pain, poor skin health, low mood, sleep disturbances, and more. These symptoms can significantly impact the quality of life. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an option for some, many women are ineligible for this treatment or prefer alternative approaches. This is where HBOT can make a substantial difference.
HBOT involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurised chamber, which allows the oxygen to dissolve into all the body’s fluids and reach areas with low oxygen levels, such
as damaged or inflamed tissues.
This holistic delivery of oxygen can bring relief from head to toe. It works by reducing inflammation, promoting healing, and enhancing overall well-being.
For women experiencing joint pain due to menopause, HBOT can be particularly beneficial. The treatment helps reduce inflammation in the joints, alleviate pain, and improve mobility. It also promotes the production of collagen, essential for healthy connective tissues and joints, and can even aid in cartilage repair. This is particularly beneficial for menopausal women who also suffer arthritis.
Beyond joint health, HBOT offers significant benefits for skin health. Menopause can lead to drier, less elastic skin. By increasing collagen production, HBOT helps enhance skin elasticity and promotes faster healing of damaged tissues, resulting in healthier, more vibrant skin.
Mood and cognitive function often take a hit during menopause as well. HBOT can help improve mood and cognitive function by increasing oxygen flow to the brain, reducing
brain fog, and enhancing mental clarity. Many women report feeling more energetic and mentally sharp after undergoing HBOT.
Sleep disturbances are another common complaint during menopause. Improved oxygenation through HBOT can lead to better sleep quality, helping you wake up feeling more rested and rejuvenated.
At OxyGeneration, we have seen first-hand how HBOT can transform the lives of menopausal women. Our clients often describe a renewed sense of well-being, experiencing better sleep, reduced pain, improved cognitive function, and healthier skin. The treatment offers a comprehensive approach to alleviating the symptoms of menopause, providing a much-needed sense of relief and vitality.
We invite you to contact OxyGeneration for a free consultation to discover how HBOT can benefit you. Our team is here to support you with compassion and expertise, helping you navigate the challenges of menopause with confidence and ease. Let us help you reclaim
your vitality and well-being during this significant phase of life.
lRuairi O’Shea
Moneypoint will continue to be a ‘big employer’ for West Clare
MONEYPOINT intends to remain “a big employer” for Co Clare while the Tánaiste has acknowledged “impatience” on the progress made for offshore renewable energy on the west coast, writes Páraic McMahon
ESB in 2021 announced their future vision, Green Atlantic at Moneypoint, which will see the site redeveloped into a renewables hub which will include the commissioning of one of the largest Synchronous Condensors in the world, a 1,400 MW offshore wind farm, delivered in two phases, a wind turbine construction and service hub plus the development of green hydrogen production, storage and generation facility. In the transition period between 2025 and 2029, subject to planning approval, ESB intends to make Moneypoint available to operate in emergencies only, using oil rather than coal.
Equinor who had partnered with ESB on the Green Atlantic project
withdrew in November 2021 citing local regulatory uncertainty. In 2022, energy giant Shell exited the Irish offshore wind energy market, having been working in partnership with Irish marine renewable energy developer, Simply Blue. Last June, ESB confirmed they would jointly develop with Ørsted an offshore wind energy farm portfolio off the west and east coast including Moneypoint.
Addressing the President’s Lunch of Ennis Chamber, Moneypoint station manager, Stevie O’Mahoney described offshore wind as “the real game changer”. The Doonbeg man started his career as an apprentice in Moneypoint in 1984. He said ESB were keen to have the designated maritime area plan (DMAP) proposal for offshore renewable energy off the west coast.
On their arrangement with Ørsted, he said, “we plan to bid competitively with Ørsted”. O’Mahoney added that it is their intention “to bring the powers to Moneypoint”. He pointed out that agreements have been reached to extend the life of the power station to 2029 and that the use of coal will cease next year.
“Offshore wind will come into Moneypoint but we have potential to have a lot of spin off industries, the evelopment of jetties, there is a masterplan to be put together and we hope to publish that by the
end of this year,” Stevie continued. “Overall it is a really positive story, it is good Ireland has the energy off the west coast, we want to drive forward, everything happening in Moneypoint apart from it being good for ESB is very good for Co Clare, Moneypoint is a big contributor to the county, with God’s help it will be a big employer,” he concluded and said 300 employees have been taken on “in the last few years”.
Tánaiste, Micheál Martin (FF) who was the keynote speaker for the President’s Lunch told the event, “we are investing in onshore wind and we want to be leading in offshore”. Speaking to The Clare Echo, the Tánaiste when questioned about outdated wind energy guidelines which prompted both Equinor and Shell to withdraw from the Irish market, responded, “It’s not so much the guidelines but they want to see progress more quickly in the West Coast”.
Offering his explanation why the first DMAPS will commence on the east coast rather than the west, the Minister for Foreign Affairs outlined, “There was one ready on the east coast and we have got to get ahead with it. We’re going to develop east, south and the west, we have to but the key target is to get to very significant gigawatts by 2030, the two auctions on the east coast had to happen and they are well developed some of those, the DMAPS has to happen on this coast, we’re very committed to the Shannon Estuary, to Foynes and this whole area of the Mid-West into North Kerry in terms of wind because I think the renewables and digital is going to be the key to the future, this region is well placed but it is going to take time and it is not going to happen overnight.
“Companies are hustling for it and that is ongoing but there is still an awful lot of investment needed, the last auction we did was one of the most competitive in the world in price terms, there is a lot of interest in Ireland. We set up MARA, the maritime agency for planning for the whole offshore wind and maritime sector, we’ve resourced An Bord Pleanála significantly by 160 or 170 people and that had to be done, overall we’ve made a lot of progress but I take the impatience and I hear the impatience but it can’t be done overnight”.
l GAME CHANGER: Moneypoint station manager, Stevie O’Mahoney in conversation with CEO of Iarnród Éireann, Jim Meade
Photo by Eamon Ward
Anti-dumping initiative sees roll out of big belly bins in Ennis parks
A SERIES of litter prevention measures are to be rolled out by Clare County Council at Active Ennis John O’Sullivan Park, Lees Road and Active Ennis Tim Smythe Park, writes Páraic McMahon.
Clare County Council will pilot the introduction of ‘big belly’ solar-powered litter bins at Lees Rd for the remainder of the summer. ‘Big Belly’ bins feature smart technology that informs facilities management crews of overall usage and when they are ready for emptying.
General Manager of Active Ennis, Tim Forde explained, “The installation of the bins at Lees Road is a key to improving waste segregation and recycling rates at Lees Road”. He added, “‘General Waste’ and ‘Recycling’ signage also is being
placed on existing blue and green litter bins throughout Lees Road and Tim Smythe Park, while measures will be introduced to reduce fly-tipping activity in the outer car parks”.
Measures will also be introduced aimed at reducing incidences of dog fouling, Forde confirmed.
“Larger dog fouling bins will be placed at the entrance to the woods at Lees Road, stencils advising dog owners to pick up dog waste are being placed on pathways, and a Dog Fouling Audio Device advising owners to clean up after their dogs is being moved to the forest entrance where there is a higher footfall of dog walkers”.
Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer for Clare County Council commented, “We are asking
members of the public to take responsibility for their litter and to help keep Lees Road and Tim Smythe Park litter-free. We will be writing to local sports clubs to advise them that plastic bottles must be removed after each training session and match. Furthermore, dog fouling is both dangerous from a public health perspective and unsightly, which is why we are asking dog owners clean up after their pets”.
Funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications under the Anti-Dumping Initiative 2024, the initiative aims to increase public awareness of litter pollution.
l LITTER: Big belly bins
Hot wheels for Fire & Rescue Service
TWO new support vehicles costing a total of €168,000 have been received by the Clare County Fire and Rescue Service, writes Páraic McMahon
Funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the two Volkswagen Transporter vans will replace older similar vehicles in Killaloe and Kilrush fire brigades.
Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) welcomed the provision of the new vehicles, saying, “It is encouraging to see that investment in the Fire Service is continuing. Our firefighters are among the best trained Fire Service personnel in the country, and these new vehicles will support them in carrying out their essential work”.
Alan Farrell, Director of Physical Development, Clare County Council, said the vehicles would assist in the delivery of a quality Fire and Rescue Service throughout the county. “The addition of these new vehicles to the fleet is one of a series of positive developments for Clare County Fire and Rescue Service in
2024. Later in the year, we are expecting delivery of a new Class B fire appliance costing €549,000, as we continue to ensure that our firefighters have the most modern equipment available to them, in providing an outstanding service to the county year-round”.
Chief Fire Officer, Adrian Kelly explained, “In addition to fire appliances, Clare County Fire and Rescue Service currently operates support vehicles in each of its seven Fire Stations. These vehicles have proved invaluable at a wide range of incidents, particularly wildland firefighting, road traffic collisions, medical assists and swiftwater rescue incidents. The capability of the Fire Service to respond to such incidents has been enhanced through the provision of these new vehicles”.
Clare County Fire and Rescue Service currently is made up of 98 staff, including firefighters, officers, administration and maintenance personnel. The county’s seven fire stations are located in Ennis, Shannon, Ennistymon, Scariff, Killaloe, Kilrush and Kilkee.
WE ARE going to continue exploring the vast area of metabolic health in the hope of understanding the best conditions for our bodies to thrive and to live and age gracefully and joyfully. One of the most controversial topics in heart health is the use of statins for the rest of your life once you are 50+ years old to prevent heart attacks.
If you are connected to the actual medical research and evidence across the world daily, as I am, you would be almost fed up with the antagonistic messages regarding this topic and which markers to pay attention to in your lipid profile when you get your blood tests done.
Because the mission of my work is to bring clarity in a simple manner that can provide people with reliable information, I couldn’t wait any longer to bring clarity to this matter using personal research and my own observational approach based on what I see in my practice.
To me, my clients’ health becomes a personal matter because I understand how important it is to have someone with you on that part of your health journey when you encounter difficulties, feel under pressure, or are unsure and ultimately feel unsafe. My background in positive psychology helped me build my coaching system centred around our main need as human beings: the need to be seen. That need is best met when you feel seen, heard, and valued. For some strange reason, this is the missing part of conventional medicine. The patient’s feelings and needs are often forgotten when the system is under pressure.
I am not here to criticise, but to bring clarity that will re-establish that sense of safety and being seen as a human being instead of a customer for a pharmaceutical producer or
the premium payer for the insurance company, and unfortunately, another demanding patient for an overwhelmed medical system.
When it comes to the most prevalent mortality risk factor in the world, cardiovascular
came across two big themes: one is that LDL cholesterol is the main marker that dictates cardiovascular risk, and the second is that once you are 50+ years old and your LDL is high, you are pushed towards what was called
risk, we need to pay attention to what is causing it and why it is a constantly increasing risk despite the tremendous efforts and progress made by the medical and pharmaceutical fields in the long run. Ultimately, people are still suffering and dying from risk factors that can be reversed under the right guidance and with an approach that includes lifestyle factors and medication where needed.
In my personal research on this topic, I
the “New medicine halves risk of heart attack death!” – statins.
In my research, I came across a very objective view. Dr Paula Byrne, a researcher at Evidence Synthesis Ireland, shares what she and her team found when they looked at the evidence on statins and the risk of bad outcomes like stroke and heart attack. In most areas of medicine, doctors are advised by expert groups on how to prescribe for typ-
ical patients. These groups publish ‘clinical guidelines’ to advise doctors. In heart and circulatory medicine, many of these guidelines assume that the lower a patient’s ‘bad’ cholesterol, the better it is for them. Equally, they assume that prescribing statins reduces risk in a meaningful way.
Dr Byrne states in her article, “There is no doubt that statins are very good at reducing ‘bad’ cholesterol but that’s not what really matters. What we need to know is how good are statins at reducing bad outcomes like death, heart attack and stroke? Although statins are a common preventative medicine in older people, sometimes the benefits of taking them are quite small. For individuals, it’s useful to think about the absolute reduction in risk they are likely to get from taking statins, and this depends on many factors, not just cholesterol. The other thing to consider is possible harm. For many people, if the benefit of statins is small, even a small possibility of harm may be off-putting.”
And this is what I am talking about. If there are many other factors, why are we not starting to consider them? Revamping our overall lifestyle for the sake of increasing our chances of living longer and better is worth the effort. In the next few weeks, I am bringing to the world a brandnew course on sustainable lifestyle changes for optimal cholesterol levels and improving your heart health. Please scan the QR code for more details.
Heart health
lOUTSTANDING SERVICE: Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council; Killaloe Station Officer Graham Tuohy; Kilrush Station Officer Michael Hanrahan; Director of Physical Development Alan Farrell; and (back row) Fire Service representatives from across the county. In the background are the existing support vehicles
Photo by Eamon Ward
Element Six focused on adding new dimensions to Shannon operations
SETTING up cross-functional teams has been described as “a light bulb moment” for a global leader in synthetic diamond and supermaterials manufacturing based in Shannon, writes Páraic McMahon.
Operating from a 22-acre site at Shannon Free Zone for the past 62 years, Element Six continues to focus on adding new dimensions to its Shannon operation. This was apparent when the Shannon-based team, led by general manager, Steve Linnane, presented at a Shannon Chamber Mid-West Lean Network, workshop held recently at the company’s facility.
These workshops are intended to give Shannon Chamber members an insight into how companies are deploying lean principles to deliver operational efficiencies. The workshops, which are hosted in member companies’ facilities, encourage collaboration and sharing of knowledge at a cross-sectoral level.
Engineering manager Richard Park and continuous improvement specialist Michael Darcy of Element Six gave workshop attendees a thorough overview of how lean methodology has enabled the company to coordinate its engineering teams across different locations.
Having first introduced lean in 2012, Element Six has, more recently, further developed how its engineering staff operate, moving from working in different buildings on a singular process and managed at departmental level, to now being part of a single value stream with responsibility for an operational function across the entire organisation.
“The decision to move from a departmental structure, which had been in place for many years, to set up cross-functional teams was a light-bulb moment for us,” explains Park, who energetically describes lean as being part of the diary, with site manager meetings, which take place at 8:30am, and cross-functional team meetings, which take place at 2:30pm, now part of the normal daily routine.
“We now have a team responsible for driving improvements. They assess how core measures. such as production, quality metrics, throughput, and recoveries, are preforming daily,” he added.
Explaining why lean is being successfully deployed in Element Six Shannon, continuous improvement specialist Michael Darcy says it’s all to do with ‘belts’, the language of
lean where staff undertake white, yellow or green belt training, learning how standards work, how to undertake practical problem solving and the most advances six sigma, a set of techniques and tools for process improvement”. He added, “It’s part of the company’s culture and it’s a route to talent development for employees”.
Speaking about the value of lean-focused workshops, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes says they are wonderful for knowledge sharing among executives from different companies and different sectors and for learning about the payback that can be derived from lean.
“As we learned from the insights shared at the event at Element Six, companies that don’t have a stand-
ard and don’t have a plan end up in a mess. We saw the impact of not having a plan when, as attendees, we were divided into groups, with each group asked to collaborate on drawing an animal, given to them only by name. Starting with the first group member who drew one part of the animal, the rest of the group had to follow through to complete the task, without any idea of what the result would look like. As we were told on completion, the drawings were all a mess as no group had a plan. Lesson learnt”.
Further Mid-West Lean Network events will be published at www. shannonchamber.ie/events-training/ leading up the annual conference, which will held in Dromoland Castle Hotel on 20 November.
Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competitions. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels for the areas set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.
Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Only applications completed online will be accepted.
• Fleet Manager
Closing date: 12 Noon Tuesday 6th August 2024.
• Retained Fire-Fighter Panels (Part-time)
Clare County Fire & Rescue Service is currently recruiting staff for inclusion on panels for the following stations:
• Shannon
• Killaloe
• Kilrush
• Kilkee
Garda vetting will apply prior to any appointment(s) that are made.
Closing date: 12 Noon Friday 9th August 2024.
Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.
Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.
l LEAN IN: Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber pictured with (from left): Jennifer Stratton, chair, MWLN; Robert Hernon, Enterprise Ireland; Steve Linnane, general manager, Element Six and workshop host; Richard Park and Michael Darcy, Element Six
Photo by Eamon Ward
IN THE line of work that I am in, I’ve always been fascinated by the stories of
successful individuals who have carved their own paths to the top.
DRAFT STRATEGIC POLICY COMMITTEE SCHEME 2024 - 2029
Following the Local Elections, Clare County Council proposes to establish five Strategic Policy Committees (S.P.C.’s). The purpose of the Committees is to give sectoral interests an input in assisting and advising the Council in the formulation, development and review of policy.
The five S.P.C.s cover the following policy areas:
• Economic Development
• Physical Development
• Rural Development
• Social Development
• Tourism Development
Membership of the S.P.C.’s will comprise of elected members and representatives of sectoral interests as follows:
1. Agriculture/Farming
2. Environmental/Conservation
3. Development/Construction
4. Business/Commercial
5. Trade Union
6. Community/Voluntary
7. Social Inclusion
A copy of the Draft S.P.C. Scheme is now available at the offices of Clare County Council and on the council website at; https://yoursay.clarecoco.ie/. Submissions/ comments may be lodged not later than 12 noon on Friday 23rd August 2024. Following the adoption of the Scheme by the Council, sectoral nominees will then be invited.
Ann Reynolds, Senior Executive Officer, Corporate Services, Clare County Council.
One such individual is the billionaire businesswoman and global pop sensation, Taylor Swift. While I may have been late to the party in terms of her music, watching the media coverage of her recent sold-out shows in Ireland and the Netflix documentary “Miss Americana” has opened my eyes to the incredible lessons we can learn from her journey. This week I share a few insights that occurred to me as to how us mere mortals can learn from the musical giant that is, Taylor Swift.
STRONG FOUNDATIONS, VALUES, AND CHARACTERISTICS
At the core of Taylor Swift’s remarkable success is a strong foundation of personal values and characteristics that have guided her throughout her career. From her unwavering commitment to authenticity and creative expression to her empathy and generosity, these qualities have not only shaped her as an artist but also as a leader in her industry.
Swift’s values are deeply rooted in her upbringing and personal experiences, which have instilled in her a sense of purpose and a desire to use her platform to make a positive impact. This is evident in her philanthropic efforts, where she has supported a wide range of causes, from cancer research to disaster relief, often driven by personal connections and a genuine desire to help.
THE POWER OF A SUPPORTIVE TEAM
Surrounding Taylor Swift is a team of dedicated professionals who have played a crucial role in enhancing her creative
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR DEVELOPERS AND BUILDING CONTRACTORS FOR THE PROVISION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN COUNTY CLARE –EXTENSION OF DEADLINE
Clare County Council is extending the deadline for expressions of interest for the provision of turnkey housing developments by Housing Developers and Building Contractors for delivery of affordable housing across County Clare.
Further details of this scheme and a guide to making a submission are available on the Clare County Council’s website under www.clarecoco.ie or by emailing affordablehousing@clarecoco.ie
The revised latest date and time for receipt of submissions is 4.00pm on Thursday 29th August 2024.
Please note that Clare County Council is not obliged to enter into any agreement with a developer as part of this process.
Dated: 11th July 2024.
Signed: Adrian Headd, A/Senior Engineer, Housing Department.
experience and protecting her vision. From her management team to her collaborators and creative partners, this network of support has enabled Swift to fully immerse herself in her craft, while also shielding her from the potential pitfalls of the industry.
Much like an organisation’s vision, mission, and values, the team that supports Swift has helped to shape her trajectory and amplify her impact. By providing a safe and nurturing environment, they have allowed her to take risks, experiment, and ultimately, reach new heights of success.
STAYING TRUE TO INSPIRATIONAL VISION
One of the most striking aspects of Taylor Swift’s success is her unwavering commitment to her creative vision. Despite facing negativity and criticism in the world of pop music, she has consistently stayed true to her style of songwriting, penning her own lyrics about the experiences and emotions that inspire her. This tenacity has paid off, as she has produced bigger and better records, cementing her status as a creative force to be reckoned with. When we witness the creative process in action, as we did in the Netflix documentary, it can be truly aweinspiring. We see how even the smallest of ideas - a riff, a lyric, a melody - is nurtured and transformed into a massive, globally recognised anthem.
Far too often, we fall into the trap of believing that creativity is a rare gift bestowed upon only a privileged few. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Creativity is not some mystical, elusive quality, but rather the highest functioning of our brain - the ability to make new connections, generate novel ideas, and envision alternative possibilities. We’ve all experienced the palpable feeling of a creative thought - that sudden spark of inspiration that seems to come out of nowhere, the “aha!” moment that leads to a breakthrough solution. This is the essence of creativity, and it is a capacity we all possess, regardless of our profession or background. In a leadership role of any kind, we can learn from this example by taking the time to develop our own creative processes. Leaders must also realise have the power to either stifle or nurture this innate creative potential in themselves and those around them. The question then becomes: where can you help and hinder your own creativity, as well as that of your team, in work, in life, and in leadership?
The answer lies in being mindful of the factors that can either block or enhance creativity. Factors like fear of failure, rigid hierarchies, and a lack of psychological safety can all act as barriers to creativity. Conversely, embracing uncertainty, encouraging diverse perspectives, and providing the necessary resources and support can all help to unleash the creative potential within. Whether it’s setting aside dedicated time for reflection and ideation, or experimenting with different tools and techniques, finding what works best for us can help us tap into our own creative potential and lead by example and with greater impact.
It is certain then, that Taylor Swift’s journey from a young country singer to a billionaire pop icon is a testament to the power of tenacity, creativity, and authenticity. By staying true to her vision, embracing collaboration and diversity, and developing her own unique creative process, she has achieved a level of success that few can match, but which many will be inspired by.
If you’d like to discuss ways in which to encourage your team to tap into their own levels of creativity, please reach out to me directly at denise@obrienlearningsolutions.ie
lTaylor Swift
IN THIS week’s article we look at absenteeism in the workplace. Employee absences can significantly impact team dynamics, workloads, and overall productivity in the workplace.
Unplanned absences can disrupt workflows, increase workloads for remaining staff, and negatively affect team morale. The impact is often more acutely felt in smaller organisations where employees may wear multiple hats. Recurring absences from a key employee can also lead to customer dissatisfaction, project delays, and lost revenue.
The true cost of absences goes beyond just the wage replacement, as it includes lost productivity, overtime pay, and the opportunity cost of employees not being at work. Research has shown that productivity loss due to absences can be as much as 10 times the direct benefit costs.
Absenteeism has a major impact to Irish businesses and we will provide you with best practices to ensure you manage it proactively in the best way possible for your business. We have seen a significant rise in absenteeism and we manage this with our clients on a regular basis. It is key to have clear policies in place that provide you with the mechanism to deal with absenteeism.
Absenteeism is a significant issue for Irish companies, costing an estimated €1.5 billion per year according to the Irish Business and Employers Confederation (IBEC). The Small Firms Association puts the annual cost at €490 million, though the true cost could be as high as €1 billion when factoring in indirect expenses. To effectively manage absenteeism, we provide a roadmap of dos and don’ts.
DOS
• Set Clear Policies and Procedures: Establish comprehensive Absence and Sick Leave Policies that cover critical areas like notification requirements, medical certification, sick pay policy, return-to-work processes, and referrals to occupational health. Communicate these policies clearly to all employees. Provide reminders to your team of the policies and processes involved.
• Maintain Regular Communication: Stay in touch with employees during extended absences, reminding them of policy requirements. Schedule regular wellness check-in meetings to discuss return-to-work plans. We see how this supports the employee when they are out and always makes returning easier for them.
• Monitor Absences Closely: Track employee absences and set up meetings after 4 weeks of continuous absence to discuss the situation and potential return dates, be consistent in this.
• Seek Occupational Health Advice: Consult an occupational health professional to assess the employee’s fitness to return to work and identify any necessary
workplace adjustments.
• Hold Return-to-Work Interviews: When an employee returns, conduct a meeting to discuss any changes or support needed to facilitate their successful reintegration. We would suggest, no matter what the length of absenteeism, hold the returnto-work meeting and have the appropriate form. In the absences of detail as to why someone may be out of work, majority of sick certs are content free due to GDPR. By holding the return to work meeting you will ensure that the employee is fully fit to return to normal duties.
• Consider Workplace Adjustments: If an employee has limitations upon return, explore reasonable accommodations under
consistent management.
• Neglect Training for Managers: Equip supervisors/ front line managers with the people management and interpersonal skills needed to handle sensitive absence discussions effectively.
• Overlook the Role of Company Culture: High absenteeism may signal deeper organisational issues around morale, work-life balance, or leadership. Address these underlying factors.
To summarise, by following these dos and don’ts, you can take a proactive, people-centric approach to managing absenteeism and mitigate its significant financial and operational costs.
In the dos section I refer to
• Ensuring they are up to date with current policies, projects, and team dynamics
The many benefits are also seen when someone is returning after a medium to long absenteeism. It provides the following:
Reintegration into the Workforce:
• Providing a structured return-towork plan
• Ensuring employees feel supported and comfortable
Specific Steps for Safe
Onboarding:
• Gradual reintroduction to work responsibilities
• Offering part-time hours or
the Employment Equality Act 1998 to support their full productivity. This is again where having an Occupational Advisor will assist you.
• Implement Wellbeing Strategies: Offer an Employee Assistance Programme and focus on mental health and overall employee wellbeing to help prevent long-term absences. We are advocates of EAP programmes, the benefit to both the company and employees is endless. It provides the employer with an avenue to signpost an employee so they can obtain support by the experts.
DON’TS
• Ignore Excessive or Patterned Absences: Address concerning trends in absenteeism proactively, rather than letting the issue fester.
• Fail to Document and Follow Procedures: Ensure all absencerelated communications, meetings, and decisions are properly documented to support fair and
return-to-work interviews and its importance. Their purpose is as follows: -
Assessing Fitness for Work:
• Ensuring the employee is medically fit to resume duties
• Complying with the Safety, Health, and Welfare at Work Act 2005, which mandates a safe work environment
Understanding Reasons for Absence:
• Identifying underlying issues that caused the absence
• Offering support or adjustments to prevent future absenteeism
Reintegrating Employees:
• Helping employees feel valued and welcomed back
• Reinforcing their role within the team and organisation
Updating on Changes:
• Informing employees about any changes in the workplace during their absence
reduced duties initially
• Providing training or refresher courses if necessary
Engagement with Occupational Health:
• Collaborating with occupational health professionals to develop a return-to-work roadmap
• Tailoring the return process to the employee’s specific health needs and work requirements
STEPS FOR ENSURING SAFE ONBOARDING AND RETURN
Initial Assessment:
• Conduct an initial health assessment with an occupational doctor
• Determine any medical restrictions or accommodations needed
Develop a Return-to-Work
Plan:
• Create a customised plan detailing steps and timelines for
returning to full duties
• Include gradual increases in workload and regular check-ins
Reasonable Accommodations:
• Make necessary adjustments to the work environment or job duties
• Ensure compliance with legal requirements for reasonable accommodations
Regular Monitoring and Support:
• Schedule regular meetings to monitor progress and address any issues
• Provide ongoing support through wellness programmes and employee assistance programmes
Communication and Feedback:
• Maintain open lines of communication between the employee, their manager, and occupational health
• Solicit and act on feedback to improve the return-to-work process
SUMMARY
Return-to-work interviews are vital in assessing employee fitness, understanding the reasons for absence, and ensuring a smooth reintegration into the workplace. Managing medium to long-term absenteeism requires regular wellness meetings, occupational health assessments, and clear policies on health assessments. Safe onboarding after long-term absence involves a structured return-to-work plan, reasonable accommodations, and regular monitoring and support. It will improve communication and employee engagement; interviews demonstrate to employees that their employer cares about their well-being and is interested in their health and recovery. This can improve employee engagement and morale, leading to a more positive workplace culture.
MEASURING ABSENTEEISM
To effectively measure absenteeism, Irish employers should use the following formula:
• Absenteeism Rate =
(Number of Absent Days / Total Number of Workdays) x 100
This calculation provides the overall absenteeism rate, which can then be broken down by individual employees, teams, departments, or the organisation as a whole. Tracking absenteeism rates over time allows employers to identify patterns and trends that may require intervention. Providing your team with regular summaries of their attendance will bring focus to them. We find often that the employee does not realise the frequency and or pattern of their absenteeism.
We at ERA Ltd welcome the opportunity to discuss with you the services we provide. We work in partnership with our clients and provide practical roadmaps as well as policies to prevent issues occurring where possible. Contact us for a consultation at elaine@ eraltd.ie, dorota@eraltd.ie or chelsey@eraltd.ie
lAbsenteeism
Clare property prices rise by €10,000 in Q2
PROPERTY prices in Clare have risen by €10,000 during the quarter, according to the latest MyHome.ie Property Price Report.
The report for Q2 2024, in association with Bank of Ireland, shows that the median asking price for a property in the county is now €275,000. This means prices have risen by €25,000 compared with this time last year.
Asking prices for a 3-bed semi-detached house in the county stayed steady over the quarter at €249,000. This means that prices in the segment have risen by €19,500 compared to this time last year.
Meanwhile, the asking price for a 4-bed semi-detached house in Clare rose by €9,500 over the quarter to €274,500. This price is up by €24,500 compared to this time last year.
There were 261 properties for sale in Clare at the end of Q2 2024 – an increase of 14% over the quarter.
The average time for a property to go sale agreed in the county after being placed up for sale now stands at just over three months. National picture
The author of the report, Conall MacCoille, Chief Economist at Bank of Ireland, said: “The clear message from the Q2 2024 MyHome.ie Property Price Report is that house prices have gained further momentum. Asking prices rose by 5% in Q2 2024, up 7.3% on the year, the highest figure
since Q3 2022.
“This represents an acceleration in the pace of annual asking price inflation from 6.5% in Q1 2024. Furthermore, the pick-up in the pace of asking price inflation has been broad based across Dublin (7.2%) and the rest of Ireland (7.6%).”
He said that the sustained strength of the Irish labour market was having a significant effect.
“The 4.7% rise in average earnings to €50,300 in the year to Q1 2024 was always likely to push up house prices.
Indeed, the average mortgage approval in April was €313,000, also up 4.6% on the year.” He added that the relaxation of the Central Bank mortgage lending rules for first-time buyers had seen the share of first-time buyers with a loan-to-income ratio on their mortgage between 3.5x-4x leap from 6% in 2022 to 36% last year.
“The fierce competition between homebuyers has continued into the second quarter, with residential transactions in May being settled by 6% on average above the original asking price,” he said.
Another factor impacting prices is the continual poor levels of property supply in the market. “There were just 12,500 properties listed for sale at end-June, still close to the historic low in Q1 2024 and down 11% on 2023. To some extent this appears to reflect a hangover from 2023, when reports of falling house prices, stretched af-
fordability and ECB rates led many would-be vendors to incorrectly fear demand was soft. This trend may reverse but will take time,” Mr MacCoille said.
“The second quarter of the calendar year is particularly important for asking prices, set ahead of the busy summer trading season, be-
fore the market cools heading into the winter. The momentum in the market means a high single digit gain in the order of 5-6% for the year in full now looks likely.”
Joanne Geary, Managing Director of MyHome.ie, said: “The strength of our labour market is of course a positive thing, but without an adequate supply of properties to meet the demand generated by rising incomes, it is inevitable that competition will remain intense. It will take time for the growing rate of housing starts to have a real impact, but it is promising to see this figure move in the right direction.”
€375,000
TUCKED away in a secluded cul de sac of just four private family homes and surrounded by mature trees, hedgerows, dry stone walls and rolling countryside, this home is a must view to appreciate its fantastic location, just seven minutes to Ennis Town Centre, off the main Ennis to Corofin road, circa 700m off the Lahinch road.
Approaching the home via the tarmacadam’s drive that wraps around to the rear, one is immediately greeted by the first floor wrap around balcony that offers a fantastic overlook of the site and the mature surrounding area.
Inside, the spacious two main receptions, open plan kitchen living, dining room, shower room, separate utility and sun lounge feature to the ground floor, with four fantastic double bedrooms to the first floor, all of which are accessed via the wrap around landing which also boasts double French doors to the main balcony and with three of the four bedrooms en-suite this would make the prefect family home.
Clare raise the Banner to overcome the Cats & qualify for All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final
ALL-IRELAND SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL
Clare 0-24 Kilkenny 2-16
Venue: Croke Park, Dublin
Compiled by Páraic McMahon
STORY OF THE GAME
CLARE
Frees for: 16 (7/9)
Wides: 13 (5/8)
Scores from play: 0-14
Spread of scorers: 8
Top scorer: Aidan McCarthy (0-11, 10f's)
Bookings: David Fitzgerald (34)
Own puckouts won: 23 out of 29 (79%)
REFEREE: Liam Gordon (Galway)
KILKENNY
Frees for: 13 (7/6) Wides: 11 (5/6)
Scores from play: 2-10
Spread of scorers: 8
Top scorer: TJ Reid (0-7, 4f's, 1'65, 1 s/c)
Bookings: Mikey Carey (54)
Own puckouts won: 30 out of 37 (81%)
'We have an ambitious group that want to win All-Ireland finals' - Lohan
CLARE manager, Brian Lohan says there is a feeling that their year was only starting after beating Wexford in the All-Ireland SHC quarter-final while he pointed out beating Kilkenny in the National Hurling League final was a huge help in overcoming the Cats in Saturday’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final.
Speaking following Clare’s two point win over Kilkenny which secured their place in the All-Ireland SHC final for the first time in eleven years, Lohan explained that their win over Derek Lyng’s side in the National Hurling League final this season which marked the first piece of silverware won during his five year term as manager, as a turning point. He outlined, “we put a big emphasis on the league final. If you can beat them whether league or championship, it’s a good sign. We were delighted with that win. We do see them as standard bearers and when you are rattling them we are happy with that. We put a big emphasis on the league, we needed to beat Kilkenny, we had lost two in a row to them. They do set the standard, okay Limerick have set the standard for the last while but Kilkenny do traditionally set the standard”.
Facing Kilkenny in the All-Ireland SHC semi-final for the third year in a row was not an easy task. “There is pressure associated with facing Kilken-
ny in the semi-final for the third year in a row having lost the last two. You don’t want to be the nearly team all the time. There is pressure and it’s about dealing with that, you can’t get over excited, you still have to make good decisions, and you have to try and do what you know you are good at. We didn’t do that in the first half, we probably weren’t let do that but the game is over 70 minutes, it’s not over 35 and you have an opportunity to re set and change things and we did that. Our players responded and we are delighted with that”.
“We were very frustrated with the first half. We had put down two really good weeks of
training We had a good plan and felt we had a good idea of what we wanted to do but just didn’t do it. Typical Kilkenny, they blew us out of it in the middle of the field, that middle eight and they had huge space. We were defending reasonably well and weren’t conceding a massive score, it was very frustrating at half time, that we didn’t do what we had hoped we were going to do in that first half”.
Lohan continued, “There were so many fellas that didn’t perform in that first half that we just gave the guys another opportunity, Fair play to them, they toughed it out and did great in the second half”.
Substitutes made a big dif-
PLAYER WATCH
DIARMUID RYAN (WING-BACK)
Minutes played:
Possessions:
Scores: None
Passes: 2 (0/2)
Short Pass: (0/1)
Long Pass: (0/1)
Turnovers For: 4 (2/2) Tackles: 4 (3/1)
Frees For:
‘We found it hard to stop Clare's momentum' - Lyng
ference for Clare with Ryan Taylor making his first appearance in over a year while Ian Galvin once again registering a score when introduced. “Ryan (Taylor) came in, he has got that serious amount of pace to be able to break the line. In inter county hurling, pace and skill are the biggest things, he has that and he gave us a good boost. Shan (Aron Shanagher) gave us a good boost also as did Ian Galvin as he has been doing all year. It’s very frustrating for Ian as well in that he is not making the team but he has shown great leadership in the group, he always responds and we are delighted with him”.
Commenting on the resilience in the group he said, “we do have a good group, they do work really hard, they are a good bunch to work with, we are just delighted with them. We try and play moment by moment and try and get better each period of time we are playing. We knew and we feel we are a good team. Kilkenny are a good team, we came up thinking we are better and there was that pressure not to lose three in a row on the back of three in a row in Munster. Sometime you get fed up at that and it has to stop and things turn around when you work hard”.
Looking ahead to the final he said, “every team that gets to an All-Ireland final wants to win. There is pressure to win all the time. We have an ambitious group, they want to win All-Ireland finals, they want to win Munster finals and we haven’t done that. that’s the pressure, we are ambitious, we don’t be shouting about it but it’s there”.
CLARE “won all the battles,” Kilkenny manager Derek Lyng pointed out while reflecting on Saturday’s All-Ireland semi-final. Derek Lyng played at midfield on the Kilkenny side which defeated Clare in the 2002 All-Ireland final and was in the centre of the park when the counties clashed in the 2006 All-Ireland semi-final. That 2006 semi-final was the last time current Clare manager Brian Lohan played championship hurling for Clare, both he and Lyng crossed paths on the sideline for the last two All-Ireland semi-finals.
Speaking following Saturday’s game, Lyng stated, “Clare deserved the win going on the second half”. He added, “We were in a strong position when we got the second goal but we didn’t kick on and we should have. We tried to make a few changes to get the spark back into us but the momentum was with Clare. The reality is they won all the battles. They were better, they were in front of the man and were winning all the battles around the pitch, we struggled on the back of that. They deserved it in the second half”.
Kilkenny may have been the better of sides in the first half but this did not carry through to the second half. “Clare move the ball pretty well, they have excellent forwards. As the game wore on we lost our shape, we tried to get it back, but that is very difficult thing to do in the middle of a game and when the momentum goes against you and is with the other team. It’s disappointing, we tried to wrestle it back, in fairness to the players. They never stopped trying, their effort is outstanding always”.
Stopping Clare’s momentum was something they were unable to do, he admitted. “We were well on top in the first half, we looked really strong but you have to credit Clare, their forwards grew into the game, and from their point of view, they had a difficult start as we were on top but as the game wore on they got the better of us. All over the pitch in lots of places, we found it hard to stop that momentum. They are a top class team. It’s just disappointing from our point of view. We are better but we didn’t show our best form. When you are on top you have to be scoring and taking your chances. We had our spell and the last day we were very efficient but not so today. Clare were going to come at you and they got more points on the board. Another couple of points would have been a big help for us.
Scoreless from the fifty seventh minute was a disappointment. “We had a couple of chances but we didn’t take which was probably down to the pressure Clare were putting. We tried to move things around to get lads into the game but you have to credit Clare, they were winning the battles, the credit goes to them”.
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
l Mark Rodgers drives away from Huw Lawlor.
Photo by Gerard O'Neill
SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT
l Brian Lohan is one step away from claiming Clare's fifth ever All-Ireland title. Photo by Gerard O'Neill
'It was crunch time for us' - Kelly states following Cats victory
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
CLARE CAPTAIN Tony
Kelly never felt that Saturday’s All-Ireland semi-final game was gone from them.
Three second half points from the Ballyea man helped Clare to a two point win over Kilkenny and booked their passage into the All-Ireland final where they will face Cork.
There was a lot of frustration with a poor first half performance from Clare but Tony pointed out that given the windy conditions in Croke Park they knew staying within striking distance of Kilkenny was critical. “On the field there was quite a substantial breeze blowing into the canal end and against us in the first half so we knew that if went in at half time within striking distance and get our game going in the second half that we would be able to get shots away. We were up in maybe twenty five, twenty six shots in the second half and we converted eighteen of them”.
Reflecting on the opening half, Kelly said, “In the first half we probably played the game too much on their terms and we went in at half time and re-assessed and after half time played our own game and forgot about them. We concentrated on our own game and played a good second half”.
Similarities existed between Saturday’s victory over Kilkenny and their three point loss to the Leinster champions in last year’s semi-final. “It was very similar to last year, they dictated the first half and we dictated the second half. We gave away a goal similar last year, a sucker punch. We went back down and levelled it. I suppose the key thing for us was there was enough time on the clock to get shots off”.
Substitutes played a massive role in Clare qualifying for a first All-Ireland final in eleven years, the captain felt. “The impact we got from the bench was massive. Ryan (Taylor)got on ball when he came on so did Ian (Galvin) and Shan (Aron Shanagher) as well. It was a very good effort in the second half and the boys coming on to finish it were excellent”.
Back to back All-Ireland semi-final defeats to Kilkenny were not a talking point within the Clare panel prior to last weekend, the St Flannan’s College teacher said. “A lot was made of those losses outside the camp. When you get to this stage every team is top quality, it was important for us to beat them, for confidence within our own group. We knew we were good enough but there is no point in knowing that unless you go out and prove it. We did in the second half and we are delighted with that”.
“We are just delighted to be there.
We will rest the bodies and re-assess. I am delighted to be back in the final, It’s eleven years for a few of us to get back there,” he added. This All-Ireland semi-final was a decisive game for Clare, Kelly maintained. “Today was crunch time for us. When you are losing you have to stay plugging away, try and get better year on year. Today was crunch time for us. When we got close in the second half the game was there for the taking and we grabbed it with both hands. This is a reward for the effort since Brian (Lohan) and his management team and the work that has gone in, not just this year but since COVID. We are delighted to get over this semi-final hurdle and head into an All-Ireland final”.
Of the 39,241 spectators in Croke Park, Clare appeared to outnumber the Kilkenny supporters at least three to one. The backing from the Clare public has been massive, Tony said. “That’s what you want, 38,000 today sounded like 80,000 coming down the home stretch and when we got close and took the lead it was a huge contribution from them. It’s not easy with the prices, it is quite expensive and it’s no mean feat to bring a family to Croke Park. From a players point of view its massive, especially when it got tight in the second half they are driving you home. We expect an even bigger crowd in two weeks time”.
Looking to the final and the atmosphere it will bring he said, “this is what you hurl for, this is the pinnacle game, We have quite a number of guys that were there in 2013, John (Conlon), myself, SODs (Shane O’Donnell) ,Peter (Duggan), Seadna (Morey), Paul Flanagan, it’s good to draw on that experience”.
“Back in 2013 we had a month to the final, now we have just two weeks. We will get the bodies right this week, knuckle down and we will see what the opposition is and plan for them,” he concluded.
Taylor's introduction a turning point in Clare's All-Ireland semi-final win
- MOTM McInerney
'We had the belief to get over the line'
Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
There was a sense of pride among everyone involved at reaching an All-Ireland final for the first time in eleven years following heartbreaking semi-final defeats in 2018, 2022 and 2023, he explained. “I’m incredibly proud, I know only twenty six played today but it is a panel of forty, they are all working extremely hard and we are very proud”. by
MAN of the match, David McInerney said there was a strong determination within the panel to right the wrongs of successive semi-final losses to Kilkenny as Clare booked their place in the All-Ireland decider.
Clare overcame Kilkenny by two points winning out on a score of 0-24 2-16 in Croke Park on Saturay evening. It followed defeats to Derek Lyng’s at the penultimate stage in 2022 and 2023 but a very resilient display from Clare saw them come out on top in the 2024 meeting.
At wing back, David McInerney delivered an excellent performance from start to finish as he won his individual battle with Adrian Mullen but also made vital turnovers throughout the game including one where he also provided the assist for Clare’s seventh point of the day which was scored by David Fitzgerald.
Speaking following Saturday’s win, the Tulla man pointed out, “We were in the same position last year, SOD scored in the sixty sixth minute, we didn’t kick on in the end but I just felt there was a different sense around the team this time, we were all driving it on and it was just that belief to get over the line”.
Full-back on the last Clare team to win the All-Ireland title, David’s return from injury has strengthened the county’s cause.
Trailing by five points at half-time, he said honest assessments were given in the dressing rooms as Clare began to plot their comeback. “At half time we reassessed we weren’t really happy with where we were at, we sat down, we chatted it out, we said we needed to believe in ourselves and trust in the process and thankfully it got us over the line”.
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
NOT ALONE was Ryan Taylor’s return a huge boost for him, his family and Clare supporters but it was also a turning point in the game in helping his county qualify for the All-Ireland senior hurling final.
An anterior cruciate ligament knee injury meant that he has been out of action for the past twelve months, having sustained the injury in their All-Ireland semi-final versus Kilkenny last year. “Nearly a year to the day against the same opposition in the same venue, it was an unbelievable feeling, I was hoping we were still in it and just an unbelievable feeling, it was great to be back”.
He added, “The boys had me well prepared, I’ve done a lot of hard work the last year, the physios have been unreal, S&C coach and the hurling has been really good, they put in the work and got me back there”. Reports that he would see some game time in the
quarter final against Wexford didn’t materialise but when he was named in the match day squad for Sunday’s clash with Kilkenny, there was joy amongst the Clare following. The midfielder certainly made a big contribution to Clare dominance in the final quarter of Sunday’s contest.
Speaking after the game he said “it’s brilliant to be back. Its nearly a year to the day since I got injured and I am over the moon to be back and to be part of it and contribute to the team, that was my goal”.
Brian Lohan had said Taylor was among Clare’s most impressive players in training over recent weeks. His form at sessions strengthened his belief that he would fit back in seamlessly to the cut and thrust of championship. “The fact I’ve been back training the last couple of weeks gave me the confidence, training is really intense so I knew I was close enough or near enough to the levels I was previously at so I was confident enough going on and all I wanted to do was help the team coming on and we did that”.
Asked if he ever felt that Sunday’s game was gone from the team, particularly after Kilkenny’s second goal he replied “there was no panic. You can’t panic, as soon as you panic you lose all of your senses and you have no chance. We kept chipping away, kept tacking on scores, that’s all you can do”.
He added, “They are an unbelievable team Kilkenny, they have beaten us the last two years and fairly well two years ago, they are an unbelievable team with all they have won and achieved so we just kept chipping away, eventually we got over the line and a few things went our way, they might have had a few wides and ours went over, fine margins at this level”.
Taylor said, “we got over the line, a few things went our way and didn’t go Kilkenny’s way, That’s the way sport is. It’s a 20 man game and the five subs are crucial, the boys do a lot of work, the starting fifteen but I suppose it’s up to the five finishers to come on and see can they get the job done”.
l David McInerney wins possession over Adrian Mullen. Photo by Gerard O'Neill
l Tony Kelly soloes away from Walter Walsh.
Photo by Gerard O'Neill
'We had 35 minutes or our season was over'sharpshooter
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
CHIEF marksman
Aidan McCarthy explained that the simple message was driven home to Clare at half time to step up or else their second half showing would be their final piece of championship hurling for 2024.
After failing the set the world alight in the opening half of Saturday’s All-Ireland SHC semi-final, Clare trailed Kilkenny by five points but a considerable improvement followed on the restart. Brian Lohan’s side outscored the Leinster champions 0-15 1-16 and kept them scoreless from the fifty seventh minute until the final whistle to advance to the All-Ireland final.
Speaking following Clare’s two-point win, Aidan outlined, “We came in after the first half and we were under pressure, in the second half we came out and we
drove into Kilkenny, it was the only option because it would have been our last thirty five minutes of the year if we didn’t do it, we’re delighted to get over the line and we fought for every ball”.
Offering his views for Clare’s poor half, the AIB employee stated, “It might have been a bit of nerves at the start of the game, we haven’t played in Croke Park since last year whereas Kilkenny are here nearly every week in Leinster, we put the shoulder to the wheel in the second half, we had thirty five minutes or else our season was over that is the way we looked at it”.
For Clare’s quarter-final win over Wexford, McCarthy was dropped for Aron Shanagher, he regained his starting jersey for the Kilkenny game and grabbed the opportunity given to him by Brian Lohan and the management team, finishing with 0-11 to his name, nine of which were frees but many from difficult angles.
McCarthy
“Brian told me during the week that I was back in, I was delighted and to be able to contribute to the scoreboard was great, I’m thankful that we got the win and that we’re through to the final”.
Key to turning around
on Clare's comeback
Clare’s fortunes was giving a decent supply of ball to the inside forward line. “We’ve done all the mental work and physical work, we’ve all the work done, it is just about getting the boys right and getting the game plan right, we
put the shoulder to the wheel and get the ball into the forwards to do the damage and we did today thank God”.
McCarthy continued, “Fifteen on fifteen is the way we play and it is the when we play our best hurling, having a sweep-
Blues win Clare Cup for first time since 2018
FUTURETICKETING CLARE CUP FINAL
Newmarket-on-Fergus 1-19 Inagh/Kilnamona 1-11
Venue: Clarecastle
Compiled by Séamus Hayes
STORY OF THE GAME
NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS
Frees for: 12 (7/5)
Wides: 12 (3/9)
Scores from play: 1-15
Spread of scorers: 11
Top scorer: Peter Power (0-6, 3f's)
Own Puckouts won: 17 out of 22 (77%)
Bookings: Shane Lynch (33), Mark Delaney (59)
INAGH/KILNAMONA
Frees for: 11 (4/7)
Wides: 13 (3/10)
Scores from play: 0-6
Spread of scorers: 7
Top scorer: Fred Hegarty (04f's)
Own Puckouts won: 22 out of 32 (69%)
Bookings: None
REFEREE: Jarlath Donnellan (Wolfe Tones na Sionna)
er or a man back doesn’t suit us so when we go man on man with every team we seem to have the better hurlers and we can out hurl anyone and today we played to our potential”.
Following successive semi-final defeats to Kilkenny, the Inagh/Kilnamona man was very pleased that Clare came out on the right side of an encounter with the Cats. “We’re absolutely over the moon, we came up here the last two years and Kilkenny gave us two lessons basically the last two years and they taught us how to get to finals, in the Munster final we were down and the dressing room
was a very low place, we got back on the horse against Wexford, we got a bit more bite in the group and got two good week’s training, we came up here looking to attack Kilkenny”.
Familiar opposition awaits in the All-Ireland final whether it is Limerick or Cork that McCarthy and Clare will face off with. “There’s only a puck of a ball between any team, it will be Cork or Limerick so we will put our shoulder to the wheel and work in training to see what happens. Whichever team will be a serious battle and a challenge so we’re looking forward to it”.
Blues play down Clare Cup success as focus switches to championship
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS were just after bridging a six year gap to win the FutureTicketing Clare Cup but they are already fixing their gaze towards championship.
Clare’s progression to the All-Ireland SHC final means this start of the Clare SHC will be deferred until the weekend of August 10th/11th.
After watching his charges storm past the challenge of Inagh/ Kilnamona, Newmarket-on-Fergus manager James Carrig outlined that their energies will now be diverted towards preparing for the championship.
Their opening round tie pits the Newmarket-on-Fergus native against a side he previously managed, Carrig spent three seasons in charge of Crusheen. “Our focus now turns to the first round of the Clare senior championship and our meeting with Crusheen. They were county finalists last year and they gave us a lesson in the quarter final. We have to improve and we have a few weeks to get ready and focus on that game”, he said mo-
ments after his side had comfortably accounted for Inagh/Kilnamona. Reflecting on the game, he said, “it was very very tight for the first ten to fifteen minutes of the game. Then we got a grip around the middle third and we took control coming up to half time and we had that lead of seven or eight points”.
Carrig continued, “it was point for point in the second half, we played well, we worked hard and we used the ball to get some good scores, I am happy with the performance but we have a lot to work with as well going forward”.
Asked if there was concern when they conceded a goal from a penalty midway through the first half he replied “we have been solid all year. We believe in our ability. We have trained hard, we have a group pf players that can change things, we are never phased by what is in front of us. We keep going and dealing with what’s in front of us. It’s next ball, next score. It’s all about the next part of the game. There will be upsets, you concede goals, you make mistakes, but you just keep pushing on, it’s important to re-set which we did and got the next score”.
l Aidan McCarthy scored 0-11 on Saturday.
Photo by Gerard O'Neill
l Conor Rynne and Peter Power contest a high ball.
Photo by Gerard O'Neill
SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT
l Clare GAA Chairman Kieran Keating presents the FutureTicketing Clare Cup to Mikey McInerney. Photo by Gerard O'Neill
Allocation of 16k All-Ireland final tickets for Clare
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
CLARE GAA has received an allocation of 16,000 tickets for the All-Ireland SHC final while the organisation will hold two fundraising functions in advance of the decider and plans have been unveiled to utilise Caherlohan as a community facility.
Indeed Caherlohan, Clare GAA’s centre of excellence was the venue for the July meeting of Clare GAA on Tuesday evening. The meeting had an earlier than usual start of 6.15p.m. because of the All-Ireland final media night at 8pm at the Temple Gate hotel
Details of fundraising functions ahead of next week’s All-Ireland final, the allocation of tickets and the junior championship draws for 2024 were amongst the items dealt with while end of season reports from the county’s under 20 hurling and football managers were read to the meeting.
All-Ireland fundraising functions:
Two pre All-Ireland final fundraising functions will be held next week by Clare. The Inn at Dromoland will be the venue on Thursday next, (July 18th) for a breakfast function at €250 per person, the price includes receiving a coveted
ticket for the All-Ireland final.
Twenty four hours later, the Croke Park Hotel will host a similar event.
Plans are at an advanced stage for the post All-Ireland final banquet which will cater for 480 people while there will be an ‘after party’ function on the same night which will have a capacity of 550 patron. All-Ireland tickets:
Clare has received an allocation of 16,000 tickets for Sunday week’s All-Ireland hurling final and almost 14,000 of these will be distributed through the clubs, Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy told this week’s board meeting.
The break down is 10,000 stand and 6,000 terrace tickets. Cork’s allocation is the same, Ms. Murphy replied when asked before stressing to delegates the importance of downloading and paying for tickets when members are allocated their codes.
If a draw, there will be a replay:
Should Sunday week’s All-Ireland senior hurling final end in a stalemate it will go to extra time and if the teams are still level it will then go to a replay. Should the sides finish level again after extra time in the replay, the outcome will then be decided by a penalty shoot out, delegates were informed
Junior championship draws:
Junior B hurling (Top 2 in each
group advance to quarter finals
Group 1: Smith O’Briens; Clonlara, Sixmikebridge, Tubber, Ruan;
Group 2: St. Joseph’s Doora/Barefield, Broadford, Ballyea, Parteen/ Meelick, Newmarket-on-Fergus
Group 3: Inagh/Kilnamona, Kilmaley, Corofin, Clarecastle,
Group 4: Éire Óg, Tulla, O’Callaghans Mills, Feakle
Junior C Premier hurling; (Top two in each group advance to quarter finals
Group 1: Éire Óg, Scariff, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Inagh/Kilnamona;
Group 2: Wolfe Tones (1), Cratloe, Sixmilebridge, Bodyke
Group 3: Banner, Whitegate, Crusheen, Wolfe Tones (2)
Group 4: Clonlara, Ogonnelloe, St. Joseph’s Doora/Barefield, Clooney/Quin.
Junior C hurling (Each team plays each other with the top two contesting the final)
Kilkee/Bealaha, Clonbony, Ennistymon, Killanena
Junior B Premier football; (Top 2 in each group plus the best two third placed teams to qualify for quarter finals)
Group 1: Kilrush, Ennistymon, Lissycasey, Moy;
Group 2: Parteen/Meelick, St Joseph’s Miltown (1), Doonbeg, Kildysart;
Group 3: Wolfe Tones, Éire Óg, St
O'Donnell named PwC GAA/GPA hurler of the month for June
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
FRESH from playing a leading role in Clare’s return to the All-Ireland SHC final, Shane O’Donnell has been named as the hurler of the month for June.
Shane has been one of Clare’s standout players on their run to a first All-Ireland final in eleven years. He has been announced as the PwC GAA/GPA Hurler of the Month for June, it is the second time he has been given the accolade this season having been awarded the gong in April.
Clare only played two games in the month of June but the Éire Óg’s man form saw him get the backing of fellow GPA members to be given the award.
He scored 0-1 in Clare’s Munster final loss to Limerick while in the All-Ireland quarter-final, he showed wonderful skill and composure before sending Wexford goalkeeper Mark Fanning the wrong way when scoring a goal, he also finished the game with four points to his name.
As the championship has progressed, the position of the Ennis man has altered with Shane taking up a role in the half-forward line for Clare's last two games. Brian Lohan and his management will
keep Cork guessing as to the mantle occupied by O'Donnell for the All-Ireland final.
Cork’s Katie Quirke, Kilkenny captain Aoife Prendergast and Peadar Mogan of Donegal took the equivalent awards for ladies football, camogie and gaelic football.
Enda McDonagh, Managing Partner, PwC Ireland, said: “The month of June has provided some amazing games across all codes. I would like to extend my congratulations to Shane, Aoife, Peadar, and Katie on being named the June Player of the Month award winners as they have stood out above the rest of their talented teammates with their incredible
skills and passion on display”.
Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael, Jarlath Burns said; “It has been an incredible few weeks for Gaelic games across all of the championships, thanks in no small part to some stellar performances”.
GPA CEO Tom Parsons said; “As we approach the business end of the inter-county season, picking an award like this becomes all the more impressive. Outstanding individual performances contribute to a team making the closing stages of the championship”. The PwC GPA Women’s Player of the Month and PwC GAA/GPA Players of the Month Award winners are voted for by the GPA’s membership.
Joseph’s Miltown (2); Kilmihil; Junior B football (Top two from each group to sthe semi-finals)
Group 1: Killimer, Corofin, Clondegad, O’Currys
Group 2: Michael Cusacks, Banner, Cooraclare, Wolfe Tones; Fixture schedule:
Because of Clare’s qualification for the All-Ireland senior hurling final, the start of the domestic championships has been deferred for two weeks and this will led to the county final dates going back to the end of October.
Informing the delegates of this at Tuesday’s meeting, chairman Kieran Keating advised “it will be a squeeze to run an under 21 championship but this is something we will have to have a discussion on at our next meeting. There was a proposal last year for a round robin format but this will be difficult to complete pre-Christmas. There is no easy solution”, he said. Caherlohan a community facility: Outlining details of further development planned for Clare GAA’s Centre of Excellence at Caherlohan, Clare GAA Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy stressed “we want more community use of the facilities here so that is why we have been in communication with the Tulla Pipe band, Community Games, Tidy Towns, Clooney/ Spancilhill community group. We
want this to be open day and night with people coming here day and night. There will be farmers markets, a sensory garden and bee keeping”, explained the Clare official when telling delegates that permission has been sought for further development of pitches 5, 6 and 7, extending the gym, a video analysis room, providing floodlighting at pitches 3 and 4 and the erection of a stand at pitch 3. “We need all these facilities to cater for our teams and for camogie and ladies football,” she said.
U-20 managers reports:
End of season reports from the county under 20 football (Michael Neylon) and hurling (Terence Fahy) managers were read to this week’s meeting by chairman Kieran Keating.
Miltown’s Neylon reported that preparations had commenced in December and some seventy players were invited to trials with the panel finalised by late January. Preparation games were played against Sligo, Roscommon, Mayo, Longford, Offaly, Wexford and Laois. For all of these games the counties fielded two teams on the day. He thanked the clubs who provided pitches for training and games, the Clare football supporters club for their help and the County Board.
Strong interest already for vacancy as Clare ladies football
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
STRONG INTEREST has already been expressed to succeed Wayne Freeman as manager of the Clare intermediate ladies football team.
Freeman’s exit as Clare boss was first reported by The Clare Echo in the wake of a surprise home defeat to Tyrone in the quarter-final of the TG4 All-Ireland intermediate ladies football championship.
His backroom team are also stepping down from their roles.
Chairman of Clare LGFA, Seán Lenihan paid tribute to Freeman and his management for their time, effort and commitment to the county cause over the past two years. The Doora/Barefield clubman said he was “terribly disappointed that our 2024 season finished at quarter final stage, I want to acknowledge the huge contribution that Wayne and the lads have made during their tenure. While we got a knock last Sunday, we have had some great days reaching the National League and All Ireland Finals last year, winning the Munster Senior B, winning this year’s National League and gaining promotion to Division 2 for next year. I saw at first hand the huge effort they put in. I want to sincerely thank them
for it and wish them well for the future”.
An appointment has been targeted for the next month so Freeman’s successor will be in place to study players during the club championships which kicks off on August 11th. “Our focus now turns to Wayne’s replacement and to this end, we will be putting out an advert in the coming week or so with a plan to have someone in place in time to observe potential new players during our Adult Club Championship commencing on August 11th,” the Chairman added.
“I have received a number of calls already so it’s clear that there will be interest in the position which doesn’t surprise me at all as we have a great group of players who have served their county, their clubs and their families with honour and distinction. They are still a fantastic team, have massive potential and a bright future ahead”.
The Clare Echo understands that Patrick O’Connor who is currently in charge of the Kilmurry Ibrickane senior ladies football side is among those likely to express an interest while ex Clare footballer Graham Kelly who is currently coach of the Clare minors may be approached. Outside candidates are also expected to throw their name in the ring.
l PwC GAA/GPA Player of the Month for June in hurling, Shane O’Donnell of Clare, with his award at PwC offices in Dublin.
Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Another All-Ireland title for Tuamgraney
by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie
Tuamgraney handball club has added an All-Ireland club title to the many individual titles that have been picked up already this year.
Paddy Fitzgerald, Shane Walsh along with Ciaran Malone and Seanie Doyle were crowned Junior B winners on Saturday afternoon at the National handball centre, Croke Park.
Tuamgraney were to play Balcarra(Mayo) in a semi-final but got notice on Friday that they were getting a walkover from the Connaught champions.
Castlebridge (Wexford) defeated St Mellan’s (Monaghan) in the other semi-final.
Tuamgraney put in a commanding performance with the doubles pair leading the way into the two sin-
gles games. The ran out eventual winners on an 88-28 scoreline. There was great joy among the many supporters who had made the early start to Croker and were in fine form going from the handball alleys to
the hurling field to cheer on the hurlers.
No joy for Clare juveniles:
There was no joy for Clare in the All-Ireland 60x30 semi-finals last weekend, as each of the county’s representatives lost out to strong Tyrone opposition.
Despite all 6 Clare youngsters playing some great handball in front of a packed house at Tuamgraney, the Tyrone opponents were very strong.
Meanwhile Luke Madden and Cathal Noonan are through to the boys Under 16 doubles final and will play Rian and Joe Dowling, Kilkenny opposition in Hospital on Sunday.
Leahy's 50 game ban cut in half following appeal by Newmarket Celtic
by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie
A FIFTY game suspension for Newmarket Celtic striker Darragh Leahy has been cut in half after the club made a successful appeal to the Munster Football Association (MFA).
Leahy was hit with a fifty game suspension by the Clare District Soccer League (CDSL) in the aftermath of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup Final. The CDSL came down with a heavy hand which worked out as a two year ban after the Shannon native was found to have punched three members of the Avenue Utd squad following the penalty shootout.
Newmarket Celtic appealed the CDSL’s suspension to the Munster FA and were successful in reducing this ban in half. Leahy will now have to serve a twenty five game ban which will keep him out of action for next season.
An outcome of this appeal was shared by the CDSL in an unprecedented “a statement of fact” on social media which was subsequently deleted following complaints by Newmarket Celtic officials.
Darragh had signed with Ballynanty Rovers for a brief spell at the beginning of last season following a memorable campaign when he helped Newmarket Celtic on their way to winning a first FAI Junior Cup title.
Speaking to The Clare Echo, Newmarket Celtic’s FAI Junior Cup winning manager, Paddy Purcell has commented
publicly for the first time on the suspension. The former Limerick FC defender held back Leahy prior to the throwing of punches and admitted he was fearful something might happen.
He said, “There is no excuse, all I say was the goading that happened after the winning penalty was scored and what was said, I heard what was said by multiple players to Darragh. I anticipated as a result of what was said what was going to happen, it wasn’t acceptable and it is no excuse for anything after that but equally you can’t say certain things to players, you can’t bring in past situations in their life and use it against them, that is equally as damaging as the physical side at times”.
On the suspension dished out by the CDSL, Purcell pointed out that it was an example of the inconsistent approach adopted by the county officials. “The mental side of how people are treated and the behaviour and what is said to people on the pitch is at times as bad if not worse than the physical side of things, I feel that is something that has not been mentioned or said on any forum at all.
“There is zero balance in how the CDSL are approaching any of these situations or enforcing any of the rules in a meaningful way consistently, there’s multiple incidences of that over the last two seasons and even beyond that but for the last two seasons where I’ve been involved in management it is one rule for one and a different rule for everybody else, that is disappointing to see, if there is consistency
Last week’s results were;
U14 singles Emma Conway (Tyrone) defeated Chloe Hannon, Kilkishen U16 singles Lucy Mc-
Cullagh (Tyrone) defeated Claire Minogue, Tuamgrnaey)
U14 doubles Caoimhe Maguire and Kayleigh Bradley (Tyrone) defeated Jane Hogan/Tracy Tuohy, Kilkishen)
U14 doubles Michael McCrystal and Damhan Meenagh (Tyrone) defeated Charlie Collins/ Jack Cahill Tuamgraney/ Clooney-Quin)
there including on this decision if there was consistency there you would say fair enough but there isn’t, nobody mentions the incidents last year twice where there was off the ball incidents on Darragh against Avenue B where players were sent off eventually and maybe served a one game ban, I don’t know if they got a proper ban so there is no consistency and that is the disappointing thing, there is a weakness there in the CDSL unfortunately for whatever reason and I don’t know if that will be addressed”.
Purcell said there was inaction when Leahy was the victim of an off the ball incident against Avenue Utd’s second string last season. “Darragh had an off the ball incident on him that was seen last year, a player was sent off, it’s a minimum three game ban but I don’t know if the player got a one game ban, I don’t know. Darragh got incorrectly sent off and got a three game ban last year and there was footage proving the innocence of the situation but they still upheld the three game ban”. He continued, “I just know what I saw in the last two seasons and there is no consistency there whatsoever, they are not enforcing the rules, it is at their own discretion completely. All forms of violence, physical and mental is totally unacceptable but equally how you conduct yourself as a club needs to be considered too and what clubs do the CDSL seems to let them off whether it is social media or whatever, there needs to be some standards put in place”.
by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie
TWO tickets for the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship Final are up for grabs thanks to Cumann na mBonscol.
In a final pairing not many predicted, Brian Lohan’s Clare will take on Cork at Croke Park on Sunday, July 21 at 3:30pm. A scramble for tickets is set to ensue with ticket prices for the stand costing €100 and Hill 16 tickets coming in at €55.
Cumann na mBonscol an Chláir is raffling the exciting prize of two All-Ire-
land tickets, a fantastic opportunity for individuals to win a chance to attend one of the most prestigious events in Gaelic sports, while also supporting a great local organisation. Funds raised through this raffle will go a long way in ensuring that primary school children across Clare continue to have access to quality Gaelic games and athletics.
For €10, you will receive one entry into the raffle while €20 gets you three raffle tickets. The closing date for this competition if Wednesday, July 17 at 8pm.
To enter this competition visit https:// www.idonate.ie/raffle/Win2AllIrelandHurlingFInalTickets.
l JUMPING FOR JOY! Annie Hayes, Sophie O'Donnell & Zoe Quinn pose for the camera at the Ballinroe Pony & COH Premier & Boomerang.ie Starfinder showjumping event at the Banner Equestrian Centre, Ennis on Saturday.
l ST. FRANCIS CREDIT UNION CLARE COMMUNITY GAMES! The Munster Community Games Finals were very well represented on Saturday 6th July in the fantastic new Fethard Town Park venue. Pictured above are the Clarecastle-Ballyea U14 Camogie side who claimed Gold at the event.
l Tuamgraney All-Ireland Junior "B" Champions
200 tennis players descend on Ennis
by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie
AROUND 200 tennis players will descend on Ennis next week for the Ennis Eye Candy Opticians Mixed Doubles Open.
Taking place from July 13 to July 20, the biggest event in the Ennis Tennis Club calendar year will attract players from Cork, Limerick, Kerry, Tipperary, Offaly, Mayo, Sligo and further afield.
Registration is now closed and the 2024 Ennis Eye Candy Opticians Mixed Doubles Open has far surpassed last year’s entry, with in the region of 200 players taking part.
Welcoming top players across grades 1/2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, up to 60 players a night will compete each night throughout the week.
Dervilla Moloney is tournament director, and is supported in the running of the event by tournament referee Brian Moore and vice referee Sarah McSwiney along with the sub-committee.
Falafel King food truck will be on site providing food from Monday to Saturday while Boru Sport will be at the club on Sunday, July 14 with a pop-up shop selling club gear and more.
Dervilla told The Clare Echo, “It will be busy every night with 60 players playing per night. Our semi-finals
night is on Friday with all finals on Saturday.
“This is the biggest event of the year in Ennis, it’s a Tour 200 event and we’re pushing to make it a Tour 500 event. Of course none of this would be possible without Linda Brannigan from Eye Candy Opticians who we are very grateful to for her continued support of the annual event.”
Linda of Eye Candy Opticians added, “I’m delighted to support Ennis Tennis Club. I’ve been a member for close to 20 years and it’s great to give back to the club that I’m very fond of and have seen grow over the years. It’s a privilege again to be asked to sponsor this prestigious event.”
l Linda Brannigan from Eye Candy opticians alongside the Mixed Doubles Open director Dervilla Moloney.
l LTOR Coach Danny Nibbering alongside Etan Nibbering who won the U14 Connacht Open recently at the Galway Lawn Tennis Club.
Lahinch Shines for the Arnold Palmer Cup
by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH
The Arnold Palmer Cup was a huge success at Lahinch Golf Club last weekend with record crowds showing up to view some of the best college golfers in the world. The prestigious Co. Clare links will host the Walker Cup in 2026 and this was the perfect trial run event and it confirmed Lahinch is the perfect venue for such a prestigious tournament. The teams were tied on 18 - 18 going into the singles on the final day however the USA showed their strength winning 14.5 to 9.5 and won the event by five points. So many matches went down the final 18th hole but the majority of these were won by the USA team which lead to their victory in the end. The quality of golf was out of this world with World No.1 amateur Gordon Sargent shooting eight under to win 5&4.
Another incredible golf
battle went on between Womens Amateur Champion Melanie Green and Douglas Golf Club's Sara Byrne. Both players played exceptional golf with Melanie having one putt on all nine holes in a row on the back nine. Byrne had been three up after the 11th hole however Greens putting masterclass was out of this world holding from 18ft on the 14th, 40ft on the 15th along with over 10ft putts on both the 16th and 17th to narrowly beat Sara on the final 18th hole with a Par. Lahinch seems to bring out the best in golfers but you can't hold putts like that without incredible greens and a huge congratulations has to go out to the green keeping team for having the course in such an incredible condition.
Coach Fennelly had nothing but huge praise for Lahinch and the record-breaking crowds that turned out to watch incredible sporting golf matches. Arnold would
have been beaming with joy looking down on Lahinch last weekend. Congrats to everyone involved at Lahinch.
Leona Wins Maiden LET Title
Leona Maguire gave it her all to secure her win at the Aramco Team Series event held locally at the Centurion Golf Club in Hemel Hempstead.
The Aramco Team Series is comprised of both a team-based event and an individual event, Nastasia Nadaud’s team beat Georgia Hall’s team after a thrilling three-hole playoff. Alongside the main team event is a three-day individual competition that features the entire 108-player field. Maguire was the leader from the beginning having carded an initial round of 7-under-par.
By the end of her round 3, Spain’s Maria Hernandez was hoping for an excellent final round of 68 to put her in with a good chance of
Ennis ladies through to All-Ireland quarter-final on August 31st
by Séamus Hayes
Ennis won the Munster West Intermediate foursomes title at the weekend. They now go through to the All-Ireland series, the quarter finals of which will be held in Gort on August 31.
The team comprised Kitty Morris, Mary T McMahon, Mary Lenihan, Bridie Hanrahan, Ann A Gallery, Helen Gallery, Peg Hanrahan and Rose Enright with subs Mary McMahon and Anna Marie Darmody. The team managers are Bríd Cunningham and Della Burns. They beat Dromoland, Shannon, Ballyneety and Doneraile in the final.
The final ended up at 2-2 and Ennis emerged victorious when Kitty Morris and Mary T McMahon won on the 19th.
EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB
Loretto O’Donnell (25) with 38 points was the winner of the ladies 18 hole stableford competition at East Clare at the weekend. She had two to spare over Noreen Doyle (22) while the gross was won by Siobhan Shanahan (16) with 19 points.
In the Eileen Murphy qualifier competition, the winners were Eileen Donnellan and Loretto O’Donnell with 43 points.
WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB
The lady captain's, Eilis Neville, prize will be played for at Woodstock this weekend, (July 12 to 14).
The presentation of prizes will take place in Hotel Woodstock at 8.30pm on Sunday evening and, all members and guests are welcome to attend.
The men’s section was won by Paul Coote, Frank Mc Enery and Martin White with 90 points from John McGrath, Joe Casey and Tommy Flynn with 82 points. In third place, also with 82 points, were Tony Neville, Liam O'Connor and Brendan Keogh.
GORT GOLF CLUB
Hannah McInerney’s captain's prize to the men was the competition at Gort at the weekend when the winner of the 18 hole singles stableford outing was John Hynes (16) with 46 points from Michael McMahon (26) with 41 points.
LAHINCH GOLF CLUB
Last weekend, Lahinch women’s and men’s senior cup teams competed in the West Munster area finals at Castletroy.
On Saturday, the men’s team lost to the host club and eventual winners, Castletroy, While the women’s team defeated Castletroy in the semi-final, they came up short against a very strong Tralee in the area final on Sunday afternoon and, thus, relinquished their West Munster title.
SIXMILEBRIDGE SOCIETY
Members of Sixmilebridge golf society will head to East Clare golf club this Saturday for President Adam Merriman’s prize. The teetime is reserved from 11am with further details available from the committee.
Meanwhile, there was a good turnout for the society’s recent outing to Nenagh where Alan Mulready Jnr. won the spoils from John McNamara with Fergal Kennedy third and Pat Kearney fourth. The nines were won by Conor Murphy and Dermot McNamara.
coming away the victor on 7-under-par, but Maguire was close behind.
Entering her final back 9, Maguire was sitting on 6-under following birdies on her first and second holes before a bogie on the 4th and a rare double bogey on the 6th hole, caused by a horrendous nervous looking
tee shot slicing her drive well into the trees to the right-hand side. A birdie on the 12th and a bogey on the 16th kept her on that number, but a miraculous closing eagle on the par-5 18th hole saw her claim the trophy in dramatic style winning her first LET title.
Leona Maguire is the
first Irish woman to have won an event on the Ladies European Tour, and she was bursting with pride.
“I knew no Irish girl had ever won on the LET before. That putt was for me, that putt was for my family, and that putt was for Ireland. It was a proud moment.”
Mary Reidys Barntick Midget Stands Tall At Galway
by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie
The A2 graded seventh contest over 525 yards was the feature event on Friday nights card at Galway Greyhound Stadium and as the traps rose for the feature Barntick Midget was just a bout best away on the wide outside ahead of Fortune Sydney with Lissatouk Dave also showing pace approaching the opening bend along the inner but short of room.
Rounding the bend the Mrs Mary Reidy of Manus, Clarecastle owned Barntick Midget went round in front with Millroad Caesar close up on her outside with Lissatouk Dave in third place training down the back.
Racing towards the penultimate bend Barntick Midget still led as Lissatouk Dave tried his luck again along the fence but Barntick Midget again cut him off and the daughter of Droopys Sydney & Barntick Smokey kicked clear again to score by two & a half lengths in 29.26.
The opening contest of the night was an A9 graded 525 yards contest and as the traps rose the John Browne of Ballyea owned Rathmeeham Honey was very smartly into her stride and rounding the opening bend she led Sasler and Croaghill Wild by in excess of four lengths.
Racing down the back the daughter of Ballymac Cashout & Rathmeehan Holly extended her advantage to over six lengths but from the crown of the home bend she began to come back to her rivals headed by Glynnscross Bono who closed rapidly in the
straight but Rathmeehan Honey lasted home by a neck in 30/68.
The S6 graded sprint contest developed into a natch for the opening half of the race before the Michael Casey of Mullagh owned Mall Bonnie drew clear of her rivals to take her stats to two wins from three outings by six lengths over Hollywell Jaguar in 18.00. From traps Fortune Zeyno came away best with Mall Bonnie quickly joining issue along the rails racing towards the opening bend.
Rounding the crown of the home turn Mall Bonnie found an extra gear and the daughter of Burgess Bucks & Newport Diva shot clear around the home bend to defeat her rivals in good style.
The Pat Kelly owned French Fearless trained by Donal Duggan of Tulla ran out a ready three & a half-length winner of the A4 graded contest from Croaghill Sky in 29.52. In the concluding A5 graded 525 Rylane Lady and Away Wego Gar tapped well and disputed the lead racing towards the opening bend with Confused Kiely in third along the inner.
Racing down the back Rylane Lady led from Confused Kiely who rails poked his head in front passing halfway as Away Wego Gar tried to close on the pair in third place. Exiting the back straight the Ger Manley of Cratloe owned Confused Kiely (Magical Bale-Lavan Fairy) held a narrow call and digging deep on the run in he saw off the challenge of Away Wego Gar by three parts of a length at the line in 29.57.
news@clareecho.ie
l Lahinch Golf Club prepared for the the Irish Open in 2019
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL
CAHERMACKATEER, COROFIN, CO. CLARE
I, Martina Corry, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning permission to construct a detached single storey dwelling house, upgrading of an existing site entrance, new wastewater treatment system and percolation area, domestic well and all ancillary site works at Cahermackateer, Corofin, Co. Clare
The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL
FAHY BEG, BRIDGETOWN, CO CLARE
I, Noel Daly, am applying to the above authority for permission/retention permission for the following development on property at Fahy Beg, Bridgetown, Co Clare:
Retention Permission for partially constructed detached dormer dwelling house and permission for completion of same, onsite wastewater treatment system and percolation area, connection to necessary services, construction of new entrance detail together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the ap-
plication.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL
CLARE VILLE, LISCANNOR ROAD, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE
Mr & Mrs David & Anne-Marie Drohan intends to apply for planning permission for development at Clare Ville, Liscannor Road, Lahinch, Co. Clare. The development will consist of construction of a single storey mono-pitch roofed garage to the rear featuring a window, double doors and entry door, ancillary works and drainage works to facilitate the development. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL
FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS PLANNING REF: P23/60491
Development Description: The construction of a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works
Location: Toberaniddaun, Lissycasey, Ennis, Co. Clare.
Take notice that Matthew O’Shea and Shaunagh Kenny have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P23/60491. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further informa-
tion or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS
PLANNING REF: 23/60297
Development Description: The proposed works will consist of 1) the construction of a single storey extension (521 sqm), comprising 2no. SEN classroom bases, 2no. quiet space rooms associated with the SEN bases, a central activities space, daily living skills room, multi-activity room, an office, pupil toilets with shower area, staff toilets, storage rooms, circulation areas, including a new link to the existing school building containing internal steps and platform lift; 2) modification works to an existing flat roof link including reroofing and elevational alterations; 3) demolition of an existing mainstream classroom to facilitate the proposed extension; 4) internal reconfiguration of the existing school building to accommodate the displaced mainstream classroom, modifications will including rear elevational changes and the addition of 2no. roof lights for new classroom toilets; 5) alteration to the existing front boundary wall, entailing partial demolition and removal of pedestrian access gates, relocation of existing mesh panel fencing and vehicular access gates; 6) construction of a new front boundary wall with new pedestrian access gates, raise the retained section of front boundary wall and installing new vehicular access gates; 7) alteration of the existing roadside parking area to accommodate 6no. additional parking spaces including accessible parking bays and electric vehicle charging points; 8) the pro-
vision of a new footpath between parking spaces and the front boundary wall; 9) alterations to northern boundary treatment; 10) the construction of mesh panel fencing enclosures for the sensory garden, secure play areas associated with the SEN bases, replacement basketball court, and extended all-weather pitch; 11) works to redirect a section of the existing public storm water sewer traversing the site; 12) and the installation of a new bicycle shelter.
Location: Scoil Muire Na Dea Chomhairle, (Kilkishen National School), Kilkishen, Co. Clare.
Take notice that Board of Management Kilkishen National School has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P23/60297. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an
Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL
SHRAGH, DOONBEG, CO CLARE
Take notice that I, Gearoid Murphy intend to apply to the above named Planning Authority for planning permission to retain existing dwelling house at the above address.
The planning authority may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.
A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the
prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five (5) weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority”
CLARE CO. COUNCIL CLOONSELHERNY, TUBBER, CO. CLARE
Take notice that Albert and Sarah Moylan intend to apply for permission to Clare County Council for development, the development consists of the construction of an agricultural loose house and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.
PRAYER
THE MIRACLE PRAYER
Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour. (Mention Favour) Take it dear Heart of Jesus, And place it within Your own broken heart Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication. Anne Corry
Recent Deaths
Baker, Scott Clonlara
Meere, Patrick Corofin
Meere, Patrick Clarecastle
Wood (née Mellis), Margaret (Meg) Ennistymon
Hogan, Paddy Crusheen
McInerney, Marie Scariff
Rayman, Aidan Finbarr Ennis
McCarthy, Michael Lissycasey
MURRAY (née Barry), Bernadette Cratloe
Rynne (née O’Brien), Margaret
COLLINS, MORTIMER (MURT) Kilrush
DRENNAN (née MALONE), SHIRLEY Ennis
KELLY (née FLYNN), Carmel Kilmurry McMahon
Moroney, Michael Ennis
Talty, Micheál Ennis
Deere, Mena (Philomena) Cratloe
FENNELL, Gareth Kilrush
Keane, James (JJ) Ballyvaughan
Quinn, Baby Lucy Cratloe
The Clare Echo Quiz
PRESIDENTS, HEADS OF STATE AND COUNTY CLARE
1 On 30 September 1994 which President failed to get off his plane when it landed at Shannon Airport for a State visit to Ireland because he was “very tired” Nelson Mandela, Boris Yeltsin, Bill Clinton
2 When president Richard Nixon gave a public address from Shannon Airport, he said ‘I don’t think of any country in the world I would rather [blank] than Ireland’ Conquer, Hide out in, Have a day off in
3 Every US president since JFK has landed at Shannon Airport – but which US president preceded Kennedy?
Dwight D Eisenhower, Harry S Truman, Franklin D Roosevelt
4 Current Irish President Michael D Higgins attended St Flannan’s College when growing up in Ballycar. But what nickname was he given in his schooldays?
Snowball, D-licious, Horse
5 Fidel Castro, former Cuban president, left what as a gift for then-taoiseach on a Shannon stopover in 1982?
Box of Cuban chocolates, Box of Cuban cigars, A traditional Cuban hat
6
President Patrick Hillery from Spanish Point served two terms as Irish President. What did he gain notoriety for in 1981?
Voted Ireland’s sexiest man
Tried out for Ireland’s basketball team
Declined invite to Prince Charles’ wedding
7 Current US President Donald Trump owns Doonbeg Hotel – but who designed the golfcourse to which it is attached?
Darren Clarke, Greg Norman, Dermot Bannon
8 Chinese Premier Xi Jinping spent most of his State visit to Ireland in Co Clare in 2014, but where was he pictured drinking Irish coffee? Scariff, Killaloe, Sixmilebridge
9 Former Taoiseach Eamon de Valera was elected via by-election in 1917 in which constituency? Ennis, West Clare, East Clare
10In 2015 Prince Charles fulfilled a lifelong dream to visit the Burren, but while helping to build a stone wall, what did he tell local farmers?
I’ve spent my life thinking about this This is a great wall Where’s the closest toilet?
Spot the Difference
thinking about this
l QUESTION 6: President Patrick Hillery from SpanishPoint
THIS WEEKS PUZZLES July 10th
WORD SEARCH
Friar
. Fricassee
Friction
Friction
Fridge
Fritter
. Frivolity
Frizz
The Clare Echo Crossword
ACROSS
Fridge
. Fried
Fried
Friend
Friend
Fries
. Frieze
Fries
Frigate
Frieze
Fright
. Frigid
Frigate
Frill
Fright
. Fringe
Frigid
. Frippery
Frill
Frisk
. Frisson
Fringe
. Fritillary
Frippery
1.Warmth (4)
3.Became better (8)
9.Post Office vehicle (4,3)
10.Poison (5)
6 Januar y: Fri Solve now (/games/best-daily-word-search/? puzzleDate=20200106)
11.Group of singers (5)
Friar ()
Fricassee ()
DOWN
1.Murder (8)
HOW TO PLAY Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.
2.Spanish friend (5)
4.Threat (6)
5.Axe or Exe, for example (5)
6.Ice-cream flavour (7)
12.Christmas songs (6)
14.Tyrant (6)
7.Moist (4)
Friction ()
. Fridge ()
More Puzzles
16.Capital of Turkey (6)
19.Explode (4,2)
21.Pie covering (5)
24.Muggy (5)
25.Letters in sloping type (7)
26.Sorry (8)
8.Exaggerate (6)
13.Aspirant (anag.) (8)
15.Biblical king renowned for wisdom (7)
17.Drink of the gods (6)
18.Marred (6)
20.Broader (5)
Fried ()
F i d ()
27.At that time (4)
22.Heep, Dickens character (5)
23.Elegantly stylish (4)
