The Clare Echo 13/09

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13 Sep 2018

lSOCIAL HOUSING: Construction will begin in July 2019

51 new houses for Shannon PĂ RAIC McMAHON

T

news@clareecho.ie

HE construction of 51 houses in Shannon will begin in July 2019, as part of the delivery of 180 homes countywide by 2021.

Tender has been commenced by NDFA for the Shannon project which is to be completed by July 2021. A further 21 houses could be on the way to Tullyglass pending approval from the OPW. Works are expected to commence next month on developments in Clonlara and Feakle which will see nine and thirteen units constructed by October 2019 and April 2020 respectively.

lSUPER FUN: Caroline and Caoimhe Curtin from Miltown Malbay braved the

In all 180 new social housing units elements to attend the 2018 Cannonball Ireland Supercar road trip which was held will be in the county by July 2021 if last Saturday in Spanish Point.

Photo by Martin Connolly Clare County Council meets its targets set out at the September meeting of the Social Development SPC.

FOCUS ON SHANNON See our 6-Page feature INSIDE

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Index WHEELCHAIR HURLING

6

POLITICAL SHAKE-UP

8

SAVE RURAL CLARE

9

AOIBHÍN GARRIHY

10-11 15

DARACH HONAN

SHANNON IN FOCUS 17-22 PROPERTY

24-25

SPORT

26-27

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

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

SALES Email: ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie or ger.naughton@clareecho.ie

l STAR-STRUCK: Tony Reilly from Lees Rd, Ennis and Noel Barrett from Kilnamona admiring this Lamborghini Diablo Roadster 5.7 Ltr at the Cannonball event hosted by the Armada in Spanish Point at the weekend, where dozens of supercars gathered. The car in question has with a maximum speed of 328kph Photo by Martin Connolly

‘Ennis flood scheme moving fast as possible’ STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

M

INISTER Pat Breen has been assured that the re-tendering process for the Ennis South Flood Relief Scheme is progressing at the quickest possible rate, with the tender deadline set at September 21, just one week away.

Minister Breen said, “Elements of the previous tender are currently underway as advance works, in a bid to speed up the time for completion. This coupled with the re-tendering process taking place in the shortest time allowed, will ensure that the much needed Ennis South Flood Relief Scheme will be completed in the earliest possible timeframe.”

Minister Breen was disappointed to learn last July that the preferred contractor for the Ennis South Flood Relief Scheme had formally withdrawn the tender.

At the time he received assurances from his colleague Minister of State for the Office of Public Works and Flood Relief Kevin

‘Boxer’ Moran that the €8.6m funding for the project was secured and work would go ahead early next year.

“I would like to pay tribute to the staff of Clare County Council for their quick reaction to the situation last July. The local authority revised and updated the tender documents very quickly and re-advertised the competition in late July. The deadline for receipt of tenders is September 21.

“Having regard to the OJEU (Official Journal of the European Union) time limits, the complexity of the project and the builders holidays in August, this was the minimum timeframe they could possibly work to,” said Minister Breen.

“It is my understanding that there has been significant interest in the tendering for the works which is also very positive.

The new contract is expected to be awarded by the end of this year with the commencement of work on site in early Spring.

“I will continue to remain in close contact with Minister Moran, the OPW and Clare County Council in the coming weeks and months on this issue,” Mr Breen added.

4

NEWS

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Clare aid off to Tanzania ELAINE TUBRIDY

news@clareecho.ie

T

HE people of Clare are a very sound bunch.

Way back in June, The Clare Echo did a special report on a small group of people in Ballynacally who were hoping to send a container of aid to Africa.

The West Clare community were putting together a 40ft container full to the brim of donations to assist a parish in Tanzania.

Fr. David Mlemeta works in the parish of Chikopelo which is 500km from the Tanzanian capital city of Dodoma. A visit to Lough Derg in Donegal seven years ago was followed

by a trip to Clare where he developed relations with people in Ballynacally and Lissycasey, he now comes to the county once a year.

The group was so inundated with donations, they have decided to send a second container. Karen Clancy is one of the organisers of this very generous project.

“Due to the kindness of people donating so much aid over the summer months, we still have more than enough to fill a second container of aid to Fr David’s parish.

“We have made the decision to do this in September, however we require funding to get the second container on it’s way to the poverty stricken parish of Chikopelo where Fr David ministers.

“While we are extremely grateful for the outpouring of support from people across the county we cannot take any further donations of items for the container but we would be most grateful if anyone is in a position to make a financial donation to get the second container shipped to Tanzania,” Karen said.

Secure Online donations can be made at www.ifundraise.ie/ FrDavidTanzania or by popping in to one of the following outlets; Wards Shop, Clarecastle; Carrig’s Costcutter, Drumquin; Lissycasey Post Office; Fanny O’Dea’s; Kildysart Post Office.

The group will also host a pop up charity sale at Hawthorn House on the Limerick Rd tomorrow and Saturday.

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Trump slump DISAPPOINTMENT and delight have both been expressed over the confirmation Donald Trump won't visit Clare.

The West Clare hotelier and President of the US was due to visit his hotel in Doonbeg this November follow-

ing an announcement two weeks ago that he would visit Ireland. However it has since emerged that the controversial figure will not be visiting Ireland. Fine Gael Senator Martin Conway said he is confident Doonbeg will see a Trump visit down the line.

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l VERY POPE-ULAR: The Pope mobile made an appearance in West Clare at the Cannonball run in Spanish Point last weekend Photo by Darren Mangan

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THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Homeless figures expected to ‘get slightly higher’ Contracts signed for Ennis property PÁRAIC McMAHON

H

news@clareecho.ie

OMELESS figures “will remain or get slightly higher”, it emerged at a meeting of the Social Development SPC last week.

Niall O’Keeffe, an administrative officer with Clare County Council informed the gathering that at the end of February the local authority had 70 adults and 40 dependents in emergency accommodation. This figures increased at the end of July to 73 adults and 50 dependents but he said “these are not the same people”.

He continued, “There is a small number exiting homelessness and there is a small number entering homelessness largely due to changes in the private rental sector”.

According to the Council official, there was approximately 40 households in emergency accommodation last year while it

was in single figures for 2016. “The absence of accommodation is the main problem,” O’Keeffe concluded.

Director of Services, Anne Haugh revealed that contracts were recently signed for an Ennis property. “We expect to close the sale in the coming days, we’re hoping it will be ready for use in 2019”.

Committee member Dermot Hayes queried if members of the Travelling community who find themselves homeless are included in the figures. Ms Haugh advised the meeting that “the list of homeless includes everyone”.

Last week a public meeting organised by the Labour party heard that Clare has the highest homelessness figures outside of the Dublin commuter belt.

Also at the SPC meeting, Senior Executive Officer, Siobhan McNulty stated that the Department of Social Protection made it known in March that “by year end they will no longer be providing emergency payments for emergency accommodation.

Sourcing and dealing with accommodation will be dealt with by the County Council”.

Making friends ‘fast

THIS summer saw the making of firm new friendships between two groups of young people from Clare and Belfast. A youth exchange, sponsored by the Causeway Cross Boarder exchange programme through Léargas, took place over a week and was hosted by a group of 10 young people from Ennistymon, comprising of members of the local youth club Youth Shack and Clare Youth Action, a group of active young citizens from the area. Both groups are supported by North West Clare Family Resource Centre in Ennistymon.

The visiting Belfast group of teens were all members of ‘Champions 4 peace’ from Peaceplayers International, an organisation that uses the sport of basketball to bridge divides through changing perceptions in conflicted communities around the world.

All the organisations share an ethos of working towards developing active citizens through leadership programmes and this exchange offered the opportunity for young leaders to be supported in planning and running the exchange with their peers. A programme devised by the young leaders used team building and a series of workshops designed to enhance understanding of diversity and social exclusion through the exploration of personal identity.

NEWS 5

6

NEWS

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Wheel warriors ELAINE TUBRIDY

Y

news@clareecho.ie

OU’VE probably heard of wheelchair basketball and maybe even wheelchair tennis, but what about wheelchair hurling?

With incredible skill and bravery, the fastest field game in the world has become even more superhuman.

Three Clare players are currently represented on the Treaty Warriors - Caroline O’Halloran from Ruan, Evan Whelan from Ennis and Edel Morrissey from Cooraclare - and coach John Carey says there are many skills to be honed when it comes to wheelchair hurling, whether it’s getting used to the chair or the stick of ash.

“Just getting used to the hurley and stuff like that and getting used to the over-sized sliotar is a little bit different because the bounce is slightly different than a normal sliotar. A lot of the lads would have played hurling from a young age anyway so they would have progressed up along.

“Some of the lads wouldn’t be

day to day wheelchair users but for wheelchair hurling they would be in wheelchairs. So they have to actually get used to the chairs. Their hurling skills would be very good but they have to get used to the chair,” he added.

The rules of wheelchair hurling are slightly different. For starters, there are only six players; the goalie, two defenders, one midfielder and two forwards. The hurleys have rubber boxes and the soft sliotar is slightly bigger. The goalie is the only one who is allowed to catch the sliotar.

“You’re not allowed catch it, but the guys that are good at it, you can roll it up and hit it.

“It’s a little bit like first touch hurling, you can bounce it up and hit a wallop, or you can hit it on the ground,” John says.

It’s also organised slightly differently in that the teams are divided into provinces rather than counties.

With four rounds in all, every province gets a home round and the other three teams travel. Whoever gets the most points over the four rounds wins the league.

Clare man Martin Donnelly is the

overall sponsor of the league. Munster Head Coach David Fitzgerald, who hails from Limerick, has been with the Treaty Warriors since the team’s inception seven years ago.

The Treaty Warriors are currently second in the league to Leinster after the third round of clashes in St Joseph’s Doora Barefield GAA club.

Their next battle takes place next weekend when they travel to Derry.

“Leinster have a good lead on us at the moment but we’re still in second with one round not even played. So we might get a little bit closer but I don’t know if we will overtake them.

But it’s all about game time for the All Ireland,” John says.

The Treaty Warriors are already gearing up for the coveted All Ireland championship, which takes place in the last weekend of October in Dublin. The Treaty Warriors are always looking for challenge matches with able bodied teams to help them get as much pre All Ireland game time as possible.

St Joseph’s Doora Barefield have taken on the Munster team on three different occasions and some of the Clare hurlers have also lined out

l LOVELY HURLING: (top right) Maurice Noonan of Munster and Locran Madden of Leinster at throw in for 2nd quarter of the Hurling Interprovinvcial League held in St Josephn’s Doora Barefield GAA, Gurteen; (above) players get their helmets on before the action and (below) musicians and fans before the match got underway at Gurteen All photos by Brian Arthur

in the past. The wheelchair hurling movement is garnering more and more attention, helped on by playing matches on local turf.

“We were in Barefield and an awful lot of people wouldn’t have seen wheelchair hurling before. But because it was there, an awful lot more people have seen it and people were saying it’s brilliant,” John says.

John wants to help the sport grow even more and is always looking for new players to join the squad.

The Treaty Warriors train every Thursday night from 7pm to 9pm at the Delta Sports

Dome in Limerick.

Everyone is welcome to pop down, even if they just want to see what it’s all about.

Anyone interested in joining the Treaty Warriors can contact them on Facebook or get in touch with John Carey at the Active Ennis Leisure Complex.

John is keen to stress how grateful he is to everyone who helped get the Treaty Warriors to where they are today.

We would not be able to keep the team going without the support of the family, friends and Munster GAA,” he added.

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

NEWS 7

‘Ghettos could emerge’ in Clare without balance PÁRAIC McMAHON

news@clareecho.ie

CONCERN has been expressed that “ghettos” could emerge in Clare due to a lack of proper social mix with housing.

Cllr PJ Kelly is the longest serving member of Clare County Council and at last Wednesday’s meeting of the Social Development SPC, he warned of the potential risks that may arise if the local authority does not find a balance in the provision of new council houses and private homes. His comments came following the announcement that 180 housing units are expected to be built by July 2021 in Clare.

Cllr Kelly said he was “concerned at the balance of social housing and private housing in certain developments... we should look at the implications down the road. Is there a danger we may create ghettos by not having a balanced formula?”

The Fianna Fáil councillor referenced neighbouring counties whom Clare “can certainly learn lessons from”. He asked, “Should we be more careful in the future and make sure we don’t, I don’t like to use the word ghetto, but we create an atmosphere where people say ‘my children will have houses after me and my grandchildren and so on”.

Kelly referred to his own days growing up saying there was no demand for social housing and put pressure on the local authority to assess the consequences of additional Council homes in an area where they already exist. He concluded by outlining his fear that the Council does “not seem to be in control of the situation”.

Dermot Hayes took umbrage with comments from Cllr Kelly. “Cllr Kelly can say that everybody in society should have a private house, the reality is totally different,” the committee member stated.

Responding to Cllr Kelly, Anne Haugh Director of Services with the Council agreed that there is a “concern in years to come if we over concentrate social housing in a particular estate”. Ms Haugh concluded, “Social mix has to be regarded. It’s a fine line to thread when you’re under pressure”.

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8

NEWS

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

‘Landlords making Eoin Neylon families homeless’ An inside look at Clare’s PÁRAIC McMAHON

“P

news@clareecho.ie

RIVATE landlords are making families homeless”, Ennis Cllr Ann Norton has claimed.

Speaking at the September meeting of the Social Development Strategic Policy Committee, Cllr Norton raised concern with the growing amount of single men being made homeless. “More single men than women are becoming homeless, they don’t want to go into hotels or B&Bs,” she saod.

Co-founder of the Clare Crusaders, Ann stated that it was important these men realise that “they are being highlighted within the local authority”. “It is unfair that they are being made homeless, they have paid taxes all their lives, it is something we have to look at, it’s not just fam-

ilies,” the Independent councillor stressed.

“It is difficult to get single men into accommodation. There are people out there without problems that are homeless because the landlord has decided to sell property”.

Cllr Norton lambasted that some young adults with disabilities have been forced to live in nursing homes. She urged the local authority to ensure necessary resources are in place so all newly built houses cater for the disabled.

“These people need to be part of society, no young person should be living in a nursing home”. Ann maintained that individuals ranging in ages from twenty to forty are residing with elderly people in nursing homes, adding “I think it is completely unacceptable”.

Senior Executive Officer, Siobhan McNulty told the meeting that the Council is working with the HSE and approved housing bodies to assist those on the search for houses with particular needs. She added they been successful with previous housing projects where adaptations had to be made to cater for requirements.

Clare Older Person of the Year Award and

Launch of the Clare Age Friendly Strategy Tuesday, 25th September 2018 2.00pm to 6.00pm Hotel Woodstock, Ennis MUSIC BY TOM RYAN AND THE FOREVER YOUNG CHOIR

REFRESHMENTS

GUEST SPEAKERS

RAFFLE

See ‘Clare Age Friendly County’ on Facebook or visit www.clarecoco.ie for more.

political spectrum

Fine Gael members must be smiling

A

NEW political year has commenced and with it comes major change. “This is a New Year. A new beginning.

And things will change” – Taylor Swift. It’s not often ‘Tay-Tay’ will be quoted in a column about Irish politics but in this instance, it’s fitting. The landscape in Clare dramatically shifted, however, in the past few days, as the new political year dawned. Fine Gael’s Senator Martin Conway entered the race to become a TD for Clare and just days later Dr John Hillery leaves it, leaving Fianna Fáil a candidate shy on their favoured two candidate strategy.

The number crunching I’m sure is still ongoing in both parties, but the largest smiles are those on the faces of Fine Gael members who must feel that their two seats are looking safe with an outside chance of even looking for a third.

Many people reading that last sentence may think me crazy for opining a Clare electorate returning three of Leo’s men, but is that so outlandish? At present, Labour don’t have a credible candidate. The same can be said for the Greens, Social Democrats and the whole host of hard left parties. Nor do we have any major new, headline grabbing Independent making noises. This means that, as things stand, the main players for the next General Election in Clare are Fine Gael’s trio of Conway and sitting TDs Pat Breen and Joe Carey, Fianna Fáil’s sole candidate, Timmy Dooley TD, Independent TD, Dr. Michael Harty and whichever one of Sinn Féin’s two candidates finds themselves ahead.

With Conway in the

race, that doesn’t bode well for Noleen Moran of SF. He is likely to hoover up most of the North Clare’s floating vote that Moran would have been hoping for.

Cllr Mike McKee, however, has all the populous South-East Clare area to himself, giving him a clear advantage.

So, we’re left with the equation of six into four, which any maths book will tell you, does not go. Dooley, as the sole FF candidate, is guaranteed a seat. FG, given the current landscape, are almost guaranteed two seats. This means that SF, FG and Dr. Harty will be locked in a three-way battle for the last seat. It’s hard to call which way that might turn out, as it will be hugely affected by which two of the three FG candidates make it over the line first. If it’s their sitting two TDs, Conway and Harty will likely split the West Clare vote.

This may open the door for McKee to squeeze in, assuming he gets a very healthy transfer from his running mate as well as a sizeable majority of the vote from his part of the county. If Conway finishes ahead of Carey, then all bets are off as you’d be faced with three remaining candidates from the three distinct political areas of Clare (West, Mid and East) in an epic dog fight. Even the hardest of gamblers would not like to put a wager on who wins.

Of course, all of this ignores one fact; Fianna Fáil will be adding a second candidate. The party hierarchy has already jumped the gun and stated their original East/West, two candidate strategy still stands.

Predictably, this has led to calls from some for Rita McInerney to be added as the defeated candidate from the FF

West Clare selection convention. However, the withdrawal of Hillery for personal reasons, utterly changes the landscape. There may well have been other potential candidates out there willing to go forward had Dr. Hillery not been nominated for selection. At the end of the day, if the party is serious about its democratic credentials, the prudent thing for Fianna Fáil to do would be to re-open nominations for a convention to allow the members to select who is best placed to join Dooley on the FF ticket. Allow those calling for McInerney to be added to the ticket the opportunity to do so correctly: via ballot box.

What the party hierarchy choose to do is up to them, in consultation with the party’s National Constituency Committee. I would hope though that the Clare FF Comhairle Dáil Cheantair office board, on behalf of the membership at large, are already pressing them to choose the democratic option. One thing is for sure though, Dr. Hillery has proven himself an example in Irish politics.

I’ve had the pleasure to canvass for the man, including once in Westminster at a meeting about the internment of Republican prisoners in the North without due process. He remains a committed Republican following in the proud footsteps of his father.

We wish him and his family the best at this juncture and into the future. I’ve no doubt we’ll hear from John again as he remains an honest, committed advocate for healthcare and social justice. Regardless of party, his is an example anyone looking to enter politics should follow.

Go n-éirí an t-ádh leis.

Save Rural Clare campaign

J

LEADER FUNDS FOR TWO NORTH CLARE PROJECTS

ELAINE TUBRIDY

news@clareecho.ie

IM Connolly moved to Kilbaha 50 years ago. He lives just a stone’s throw from the most westerly tip of Co Clare, which is just about as rural as you can get.

A social activist enchanted by the quality of life Kilbaha offered, Jim was concerned about rural depopulation.He established Rural Resettlement Ireland in 1990; helping 800 families start a new life, a quarter of those families resettling in Co Clare.

Government funding was cut from Rural Resettlement Ireland in 2012, forcing the organisation to shut down.

Two years ago, Clare County Council agreed to take over the 21 social houses built by Jim’s organisation.

Jim is so frustrated at the delay in processing the handover, he recently placed an ad in The Clare Champion asking a public question to the local authority and the Housing Minister.

The ad reads: “At 81 I have done all I can in a voluntary capacity. My question to the Minister and the Council is will the transfer go on for another two years or will it go on forever?”

After placing the ad two weeks in a row, Jim is yet to receive a response.

“Two years later it still hasn’t gone over the line. And we can’t literally close our doors because we manage the houses, to collect the rent, do the repairs and do all the things that you do for managing a house,” Jim said.

He said there is so much bureaucracy when it comes to housing, he would not encourage anyone to take up the baton.

T

WO north Clare projects were among 16 nationwide to secure LEADER funding this week.

Michael Ring has agreed to allocate €8,925 to the upgrading of lockers at Lahinch Seaworld & Leisure Centre and has also agreed to allocate €5,736 to the promotion of #LoveDoolin 2018.

“The Doolin funding will go towards the production of promotional material, souvenirs etc to promote the Doolin area and help to increase tourism. The €5,736 will cover 50% of the cost of the project,” said Minister Pat Breen, who added that the Lahinch funding will cover 50% of the cost of replacing the locker system at Lahinch Seaworld & Leisure Centre.

‘Rural Clare in need of more survivors’ lSOCIAL ACTIVIST: Jim Connolly at his home in Kilbaha

“I wouldn’t advise my worst enemy to get involved in social housing because you don’t know what you’re taking on... it’s so bureaucratic it’s unbelievable,” he added.

Jim claimed all social housing associations are having trouble getting young people to replace the aging directors that started the process.

“The issue was [when the social housing process started a few decades ago] that they start-

ed this programme encouraging people to set up these groups, which was great, but without any end game. Nobody planned it through. You’re going to drop down dead if nothing else and not one group has managed to get a younger director in,” he added.

Most people would say that a lack jobs is the biggest issue when it comes to attracting people to live in rural areas like West Clare. Jim believes the se-

Photo by Elaine Tubridy

cret to getting West Clare to flourish lies with people, rather than jobs.

“There’s a large cohort of people who can make a living on their own skills and there’s a lot of people in this community doing that... not depending on somebody coming in creating jobs.

“There’s an upside to attracting people who are self-sufficient. The farmers in West Clare and in rural Ireland really are a race of survivors, because they have survived everything that nature and man and the Church and the whole lot could throw against them.

“They survived because they needed to survive and they wanted to survive and this was their home place. I’ve always said that what rural Ireland needs is more survivors,” Jim added.

The news that six post offices will close in Clare has brought the topic of services back into sharp focus. Jim believes the key to holding on to services comes back to people.

“It comes down to the same thing.

Numbers. Services only survive when the community is there to support them.”

‘PEOPLE CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT SERVICES’ ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie

C

LARE’S Independent TD DR Michael Harty has said that he is very frustrated at the lack of progress in the healthcare system.

Dr Harty garnered a lot of support from rural Clare residents under his “No Doctor, No Village” campaign.

Two and a half years later, the Government is still no closer to producing a new contract for GPs. The old GP contract is 46 years old and is no longer fit for purpose.

“Of course it’s very frustrating to hear the Minister speak as if there’s progress being made when everybody on the ground knows that that’s not the case.

“The proof of the pudding is that our hospital services are being overwhelmed by patients who could be looked after within the community if there was proper structures to look after them within general practise and within primary care, but unfortunately, more and more people are ending up in our casualty department and on waiting lists,” Dr Harty said.

lFRUSTRATED: Independent TD Dr Michael Harty Dr Harty commented that the Government are not doing enough to retain services in rural areas.

He made reference to the National Broadband Plan, which was supposed to be completed by 2020 but has now been pushed out to 2023.

Two of the three bidders have pulled out of the tendering process and Dr Harty wants the Government to take over

the project.

“In reality, it’s not going to be completed by 2023 I think because the tendering process for that process is flawed and companies just don’t find it attractive. They don’t find it financially sustainable to deliver broadband.

“We all know it’s a challenge, but the government really needs to take over the process themselves and do it publically instead of doing it through the private sector,” he said.

Dr Harty believes that the key to getting people back into rural Clare is jobs, but he acknowledges how difficult that is without adequate services.

“We haven’t seen any major expansion of employment in West Clare because it’s very difficult for businesses to set up when the infrastructure to support them isn’t there. There’s a lack of broadband, very poor mobile coverage and very poor infrastructure.

“We’re losing our services, we’re losing our post offices.

Once the post office goes it has a knock on effect on the other businesses in the village, kind of a cascade effect. People want to live where there are services and they want to live where they can have a good quality of life and a job and those three components are still missing in West Clare,” he commented.

(Side note: I had to call Dr Harty back on a landline as the mobile coverage dropped while we were talking. Both of us were in West Clare at the time.)

10 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Aoibhín Garrihy

LOVE

CLARE

Time flies when you’re having fun THE NOTEBOOK

W

HERE does the year go? The older I get the quicker the time seems to be flying by…

How does it feel like winter is upon us already?! Maybe it’s that Christmas retail seems to have kicked into gear already…today I’m checking out the new Christmas store in Arnotts, Dublin and while I love the most “wonderful time of the year” it does seem earlier and earlier every year.

I do love Autumn/Winter as a season though and with some stunning collections on display over the past few weeks, I just can’t help how large my wardrobe wish-list is! I had the pleasure of witnessing Louise Kennedy’s new collection showcase in Dublin last week and it was truly a sight for sore eyes (the show opened with a real life balleri-

l INCREDIBLE: Louise Kennedy’s new collection and (above) BEO is back in the Banner

na dance across a pond!)…what an incredible Irish export.

I’m feeling good this week as I made a pact with myself at the weekend to move my body every day this week even if its just a light run or swim. I discovered a fantastic class for new mums and babies at Heart Health and Fitness on Orchard Lane in Ennis. Designed to help mums “bounce back”, this is the perfect way to ease back into exercise while meeting other new mums. A wonderful offering in Ennis in my opinion.

Tonight I am delighted to don my MC hat for the annual Gala

HAPPENINGS

CULTURE NIGHT FRIDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER Culture Night is an all Ireland celebration of cultural activity with free arts and culture events happening throughout County Clare. Over 15 towns and villages took part in 2017 and this year is set to be bigger and better! See culturenight.ie for more.

MOY HILL FARM GATHERING 21ST23RD SEPTEMBER As the night starts to take over the day Moy Hill will host their first farm gathering. Two days and three nights as the food, beautiful music, inspirational workshops and discussions will nourish all those in attendance.

For more see moyhillfarm.com SEAFOOD IN SEPTEMBER FESTIVAL CARRIGAHOLT 14-16TH SEPTEMBER Get your taste buds excited for this fabulous food festival that showcases the best of Seafood from around Loop Head Peninsula on the Wild Atlantic Way. See loophead.ie for more.

Retail BEST Awards Night in the Kilashee House Hotel celebrating excellence in retail from around the country while on Friday I’m off to the Listowel Races to judge the Best Dressed Lady on the day with the fabulous style guru that is Marietta Doran.

BEO is back in the Banner next week and I am so excited to start the new series of health and wellness events…sadly we are sold out for our Clare date but for those interested in joining us for a day of self-care we do have limited tickets available for Cork, Kilkenny and Galway. See @beoevents for more info.

COVET IN

CLARE TUTTI FRUTTI Too sweet to be wholesome?

Not this “juice and store” from Mason Cash at Dunnes Stores… great for juicing those citrus fruits and can also be used to store any unused lemon or lime halves. The full range will have any domestic gods and goddesses uber excited! €13.50

MINDING YOU Fashion with a purpose. “Smirk” clothing are on a mission to spread a positive mental health message and their west of Ireland brand is full of good vibes. I’m a big fan of this Llama sweater.

See the full collection at smirk clothing.ie

l AUTUMN/WINTER FASHION: I had the pleasure of witnessing Louise Kennedy’s new collection showcase in Dublin last week

WALK THIS WAY Una Healy’s new collection has me marching straight to Cornucopia in Ennis to nab some fancy footwear for the season ahead.

These “Unofficial” beauties are my favourite and are €60 available at cornucopia.fashion now.

TELL YOUR STORY Write your own narrative with this gorgeous The Links of London engravable bar pendant available in rose gold, yellow gold and silver at Tadgh O’Flynn jewellers from €120-€150.

A NEW LEAF Looking for some great ways to integrate more plant based foods into your diet or want to know more about what’s involved in a full vegan diet, the new Vegan-ish by Holly White is a great place to start. Available at most good book shops.

COLUMNIST 11

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Top 5 Fun First Dates in Clare AILLWEE CAVE

1

Almost like a scene from a movie, Aillwee Cave is the perfect way to add a little excitement to a first date. The very unique setting brings a change of scenery from your every day hang out spots and the dark, almost eery ambiance will have you grabbing on to one another from the get go! Top it off with some delicious farmhouse cheese or a visit to the Birds of Prey Centre.

2

KILLALOE RIVER CRUISES

Is there anything more romantic than a relaxing boat trip? Take a one hour trip with Killaloe River Cruises on the Shannon and Lough Derg and avoid those awkward moments as you listen to the audio guide together and take in the magnificent scenery, wildlife, heritage, legend and folklore. All going well, why not reinact your own Titanic scene at the bow!

PLANET ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE, ENNIS

3

Bowling is a fun way to spend a first date as it takes the focus away from those initial pleasantries and injects a little light hearted competition. Bowling tends to be a level playing field for most people so the spontaneous fluky strike adds an unforced energy and Planet Entertainment in Ennis is central enough to have a celebratory drink in town on the winner afterwards!

4

PITCH AND PUTT DOOLIN

Another fun pastime which does not require past experience or favour one sex over the other, is pitch and putt. A great option for a date in the fresh air. If the 18 hole links course in Doolin doesn’t get pulses racing, the stunning sea and cliff views surely will!

HAZEL MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY

5

They say it’s an aphrodisiac so why not give yourself a little nudge in the direction of love and visit the Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory and Cafe. Take a tour and discover the art of artisan chocolate in the heart of the Burren with a delicious tasting session to finish. Yum!

12 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, SEPT 13 2018

Exhibition on at glór

Health&Living Fitness & Mindset Corner with Cillian Keane Fitness, Personal Trainer

I’m living proof you can rise from rock bottom

A

T NINETEEN I was diagnosed with a mental illness called Bipolar Disorder. I was in University in Galway at the time studying Arts. I have the benefit of hindsight now but at that time, I honestly didn’t know what I was going through.

All these feelings and emotions were new to me. It was a strange experience to go from being extroverted and sociable to becoming isolated and alone. I felt these dark clouds over my head were going to be here forever.

I knew I had to do something to get back to normal. I had to battle my way back every single day.

Over the last few months, I have put myself out there to tell this, my mental health story.

It has been a long road of setbacks and struggles to get

to where I am today and I am so proud of all that I have achieved.

From being at rock bottom to be able to speak about it today makes me extremely proud.

Now I want to spread a positive message that no matter what struggles you go through, you can still live a very happy and productive life. I have pushed myself out of my comfort zone in writing about my past struggles in the hope it inspired someone out there. I have become braver in telling my story when a few years ago I had bottled it all up. It is certainly not easy to speak about it, but as a 31-year-old male, my aim is to make the topic of mental health problems normalized and for others to have the courage to speak about their problems.

You don’t want it to manifest into anything more severe. Life

twitter.com/ ClareEcho

is short and it is flying by so why let the days pass you living unhappily.

Since I have opened up on the topic of mental health, so many have resonated with my story. We all struggle from time to time but what happens when you feel that life is not going the way you had planned.

You need to realise that you are never alone.

You also need to realise that there is so much help and support out there that can get you back to where you need to be.

There are so many people out there that you can confide in when going through a difficult period.

You are much stronger than you can imagine.

I am a big believer in anything you set your mind to you can achieve. The mind is a powerful tool that you can build

facebook.com/ clareecho

Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

The tax payers shouldn’t be footing the bill for him to pop in and check on his business, and from a principle standpoint protest is always important. As for the papal comparisons, I think that highlighted just how much money our sycophantic government are burning on trying to schmooze the entirely wrong people... If Trump wants to come here that’s fine but the government thinking it’s likely appropriate to roll out the red carpet for him is certainly not.

Brendan Gordon

in reaction to last week’s editor’s opinion that protesting Trump’s visit would be meaningless

up stronger every single day just like your physical fitness.

I truly believe that life is there to be lived the happiest you can be. I have battled my way back to living life on my terms. I’m living proof that you can go on to achieve great things. If I can do it, you can too.

Cillian Keane is a personal trainer based at Hustle Fitness in Ennis. If you are looking to kickstart your fitness regime and get the results you strive for, contact Cillian on 0863305024 or email cillian.keane87@gmail. com.

NOCTURNE @ glór AN EXHIBITION OF NEW WORK BY ADAM POMEROY Sep 7 to OCTOBER 27 GLÓR presents Nocturne, an exhibition of new work by Kilbaha based artist Adam Pomeroy. Adam is one of Ireland’s leading contemporary figurative artists whose work has been shown widely in Ireland and the UK. The exhibition runs upstairs in glór’s gallery from Friday, September 7 until Saturday, October 27 and will launch on Culture Night, Friday 21 September.

As a figurative painter, Adam’s work has focused on still life and figure painting, and his practise is rooted in direct observation. The work in Nocturne is concerned with minimalist realism, paring down representation to the essential without sacrificing the integrity of the subject. Nocturne is as much about what is not painted as what is. The subjects in the work are mere flickers of light, like memories or future ghosts. The intention is that the viewer’s eye will unconsciously supply what cannot be seen.

Born in Norfolk, England, in 1979, Adam moved to Clare in 1999 and started painting professionally in 2001. His work is held in many collections, both public and private. Paintings from his biblical series can be seen in Galway and Ennis cathedrals, and have also been shown in Christ Church Cathedral, Dublin.

The launch will take place on Culture night, Friday Sep 21, all welcome.

For further info please see www.glor.ie or call glór at 065 6845 370.

instagram.com/ theclareecho

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week PETER BLUDEN @PeterBluden

Australia’s finest cartoonist Mark Knight has the strongest support of his colleagues for his depiction of Serena Williams’ petulance. It’s about bad behaviour, certainly not race. The PC brigade are way off the mark...again.

Entertainment LISDOONVARNA MATCHMAKING FESTIVAL 14th/15th/16th September

“HYDRO HOTEL” Teddy & Cathal Barry, Moynihan Brothers, John & Leslie Dunne, Michael Sexton and Lisdoonvarna Showband ******

Q-DANCE CLUB + ROOF DJ FRIDAY & SATURDAY Starts at 11pm – Late! Over 18’s Only!

******

BUCK TAYLOR SATURDAY, Starts at 11pm Till Late!

“IMPERIAL HOTEL” Pat Dowling, Outa Diesel, Damien & the Shakes, Blue Ridge Country and Jarleth ******

MEG MAGUIRE PUB With DJ PAT FRIDAY Starts @ 8pm / SATURDAY Starts @ 4pm Over 18’s Only!

MIDWEEK DANCING ALL SEPTEMBER AT THE HYDRO & IMPERIAL HOTELS! MUSIC & DANCING IN ALL PUBS IN TOWN!! www.matchmakerireland.com

The Burren Food Fayre “Taste without Waste”

28TH OCTOBER 2018 THE PAVILION, LISDOONVARNA, CO.CLARE

O

CTOBER Bank Holiday Weekend will see the 7th Annual Year of the Burren Food Fayre. The theme for 2018 is #TasteWithoutWaste and it will bring visitors through two alternative Foraging Walks with Oonagh O’Dwyer of Wild Kitchen & Lisa Guinan of Irish Herbal Roots, food stalls and chef demonstrations. It is an opportunity for local producers to showcase their range of local produce from the Burren region to national and international visitors.

The Fayre entry is FREE of charge for all visitors on Sunday with a pre-fayre event taking place at the Storehouse in Lisdoonvarna on Saturday evening with the launch of a new Burren Brewery wild yeast herbal beer, Euphoria.

On Sunday the 28th of October the Burren Food Fayre will open its doors in the Pavillion in Lisdoonvarna from 12 noon to 5pm, with a range of Burren food producers ex-

hibiting their produce, cooking demos and foodie talks, confirmed chefs to date presenting at the Fayre are Robbie McCauley, Head chef at Gregans Castle, and London based Irish chef Anna Haugh.

More chefs will be announced in the coming weeks.

The theme this year is “Taste without waste”.

The Fayre is organised by the Conservation and Advocacy group of the Burren Ecotoruism Network, and they are striving to year to not only minimise the waste produced by this event but also to increase awareness on waste reduction.

The Burren Ecotourism Network welcomes this year Calor BioLPG as their main sponsor. nFor further information & images about the Fayre contact Raquel Noboa on info@burrenecotourism.com

14 COMMUNITY

Community NORTH CLARE OPEN THE PORTAL IN ENNISTYMON Marie Connole, Visual Artist, is launching her Artist Book titled ‘Opening the Portal: Immrama to the Otherworld’ in the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon. The launch, which is part of Clare Culture Night, will take place on Friday 21st September at 5.30 p.m. and is a family MARIE CONNOLE friendly event.

The book contains selected works and local folk tales from Connoles’ solo exhibitions in Ennistymon (2018), New York (2017) and Galway (2016). The book is an exploration of the traditional cultural narratives that have shaped the coastal margins of Clare. The central theme is the metaphorical journey to the legendary village of Kilstipheen, said to lie at the bottom of Liscannor Bay. In addition to the book launch there will also be a screening of the video ‘Tea-Time Tales’ which was filmed during a workshop by the artist for Bealtaine Festival 2018. For more visit thecourthousegallery.com.

IMMRAMA TO THE OTHERWORLD

BURREN PEAKS Join The Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club on The Burren Peaks Weekend of Walking Festival on Sept 22 & 23, 2018.

If you have never ventured into the heart of the Burren give yourself a real treat and explore this wonderfully rich unique limestone pavement with its karst landscape clints, paths, and green trail roads.

During the weekend of September 22-23, the festival offers grade A,B, & C walks on Saturday and Sunday. All walks will be led by members of the Ballyvaughan Fanore Walking Club who will be your host for the weekend.

Join us on Saturday night in Monks Restaurant for dinner served at 7pm followed by talk & slideshow by Burren Expert Dr. Brendan Dunford & Introduction to The Burrenway by Eoin Hogan, Rural Recreation Officer.

All details on www.burrenpeakswalkingfestival.com.

Phone: 087 7779714.

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

ENNIS YOUTH THEATRE Clare Youth Theatre, an initiative of the Arts Office of Clare County Council, returns to glór this month for its weekly workshops.

Open to all young people who are in secondary school, the Youth Theatre meets every Saturday afternoon and delivers a programme that includes acting, devising, writing and technical skills for theatre. With members currently from all over the county, CYT offers teenagers a chance to meet and create with like-minded young people.

“Over the years we have seen firm friendships forged at the youth theatre,” according to Siobhán Mulcahy, Clare County Council Arts Officer. “The development of theatre skills is primarily what we do but the holistic benefits of team building, self confidence and addressing issues relevant to young people in a safe environment is what differentiates the youth theatre from other drama groups.”

Led by Eleanor Feely and Clare Townsend, the group engages in community events, pop-up performances and productions throughout the year. There are no auditions while those who may have a preference for behind the scenes theatre work such as scriptwriting or lighting are also invited to take part.

Registration for new members takes place on Saturday, Sep 15 at 1.30pm in glór, followed by an introductory workshop.

For further info contact the Clare County Council Arts Office at 065 6899091.

TRACE YOUR ANCESTORS Clare Roots Society will resume their monthly Lectures on the 20th September, 8pm. @ Old Ground Hotel, Ennis. Tracing your ancestors; a chance for those who are thinking of researching their family tree or for people who have met a brick wall in their searches, come and talk to members of Clare Roots Society; More advanced methods of research such as DNA will feature in talks.

At the talk, we welcome objects

l MAKING HISTORY: Graduating from the University of Limerick last week with a First Class Honours in Local History was Lisa Mullins from Lahinch. Lisa is pictured with Steve Dolan (Course Manager and Lecturer), Clare Lowery (Lecturer), and Dr David Fleming (Course Director)

of historical interest, memorabilia, we can scan old letters, photographs and postcards from America and Australia from the Diaspora to the family back home in Clare in order to preserve copies of them for future generations. There must be shoeboxes full of these all over Clare, all ready to go to the skip when a house is being cleared.

These items could form part of an exhibition or could be lodged in the Clare Library.

MACRA SOCIAL EVENTS Clare Macra are having two social events this weekend. A bowling night out is planned this Friday 14th at 8:30pm in Planet Entertainment Centre Ennis followed by a Quiz on Sunday night at 8:30pm in Lucas’s Bar, Ennis.

All welcome. Please like and share the Clare Macra Facebook page for more details. l LEADING THE WAY: Congratulations to Cillian Griffey on a leader of the year award for his role as Clare Macra County P.R.O. last year. Cillian received his award from Macra na Feirme President James Healy (left) at County Officer Training in Whites Hotel Wexford last weekend.

Leader of the year awards are presented to county officers in recognition of leadership qualities demonstrated the previous year.

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Darach Honan

Sheila Lynch Solicitor

Trusted independent financial advisor with IPS Financial Advice

Legal Matters

Joint bank accounts...

CAREFUL consideration should always be given to setting up a joint account, and it is essential that all parties are very clear on the reasons for the account, how and for whom the funds are to be used and what should happen any funds remaining in the account when one of the parties dies.

Older people are often encouraged to add the name of a family member or carer to their bank account ‘for the convenience’ of the older person, for example, when being admitted to hospital or long-term care, or they may simply be physically infirm and unable to access the funds directly, to pay their bills and expenses. However, they most often do not understand the implications for them and their family in doing so.

If an account is in joint names for convenience only, then any withdrawals from the account should be for the care and maintenance of the original account owner only. If he/ she becomes mentally incapable, then operation of the account must stop, and thereafter it can only be operated by an Attorney under a registered Enduring Power of Attorney or by the Committee of the person on becoming a Ward of Court.

On the death of the original account owner, the remaining funds pass to his/her estate and not to the surviving joint account holder, unless an intention to make a gift can be proved. The first place to look for such intention is any documentation held by the financial institution.

If these documents disclose the original account owner’s intentions, then no other evidence can be used to override this. If the documentation doesn’t disclose any intention, then clear evidence proving a gift is required. Also, the family relation-

ADVICE / INFORMATION 15

ship between the account holders may give rise to a presumption that the funds are to pass to the survivor of them. Particularly, this presumption applies to a joint account of a husband and wife so that the account passes to his wife, and to a joint account of father and child, so that the account passes to his child.

However, the presumption does not apply in the case of transfer of a joint account from wife to husband or from mother to child.

In certain circumstances a vulnerable person may have been unduly influenced to open a joint account with a trusted family member or carer. If such situation arises the trusted person must unequivocally prove that the original account owner had full knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of setting up a joint account, which may be an impossible task where independent legal advice was not received by the vulnerable person.

In conclusion, preferably a written agreement should be entered into between joint account holders confirming the reason(s) for putting the account in joint names so as to avoid any uncertainties or misunderstandings regarding the use and passing on of the account funds.

This article does not constitute legal advice and where an opinion is expressed, it is the personal opinion of the author only and not of the firm or the paper.

Several tax reliefs are underused by public

M

ANY readers will agree that Ireland has a pretty high rate of income tax, but most don’t realise just how much it affects them.

It is the largest expenditure that most of us will have each year. Take someone earning €55,000 per annum. They will pay €15,890 between income tax, USC and PRSI, amounting to 29% of their gross income for the year.

But there is more. You will also contribute to the state coffers through VAT, property tax, CGT and DIRT. But death and taxes are unavoidable, right? Yes, but several reliefs are underused by the public.

For many, it is a case of being unaware or unsure of the opportunities available to them. To be fair, Einstein said, “The hardest thing in the world to understand is income tax” but leave the theoretical physics to him and I’ll look after the financial advice.

This week, I will lay out a couple of ways in which you can reduce the amount of tax you pay each year.

Pension Contribution We all know that we should be planning for our future by contributing to our pensions, but many don’t realise that it is also an excellent way to reduce our tax liabilities. In Ireland, there are two income tax bands; those earning up to €34,550 will pay 20% income tax; people earning more than this will pay tax at the higher rate of 40%. But if I pay the higher rate of tax and I contribute €10,000 to my pension, it will only cost me €6,000 to do this and Pascal Donohue will pick up the tab for the balance of €4,000.

Health Costs Another available relief is to claim back tax on health costs that we have incurred during the year. Every time you spend money on doctors, prescriptions, operations or a host of other regular health expenses, you should be claiming relief at the rate of 20% on these costs.

A great way to track this is to download the revenue app to your phone. Log into the myaccount section when you visit the doctor or dentist and log your expenses as you go. If you are paying €50 per visit you will get €10 back each time.

Entrepreneurial Investor Incentive Scheme (E.I.I.S) E.I.I.S. is a revenue approved scheme that allows Irish investors to receive tax relief on certain investments. In my opinion, this can be one of the best ways to reduce your tax and get a good return on investment over a relatively short period of time. Let’s say that you invest money in

a selected company in year one.

For high rate tax payers, EIIS will allow you to receive 30% of the value of your investment back from revenue in year one. In year four, you receive the initial value of your investment back. Finally, in year five you receive a further 10%, which added to you 30% in year one, gives your 40% tax relief. You have then made a return of 40% tax free.

Take the example of a €10,000 investment Cashflows Initial investment (€10,000) Year 1 tax relief @30% €3,000 Year 4 Investment Returned €10,000 Year 5 tax relief @10% €1,000 Total Return €14,000 tax free

As you can see, this can be a little complicated, and it is important to note that it is only as good as the company that you are invested in. That is why using a good financial planner is a crucial step to making the most of E.I.I.S and reducing your overall tax liability.

Pension Term Assurance Another lesser used relief is pension term assurance. This is a product that allows you to receive income tax relief on your life cover. Pension term assurance is available for the self employed or for PAYE workers who do not have an occupational pension scheme available to them through work. Pension term assurance is a great way to save 40% on the premiums payable on your life cover. Unfortunately, many of us are not aware of the benefits of pension term assurance and as a result, this relief is underused. It is a great way to ensure that you have good cover in place for your family at the best prices.

There are many more reliefs available to us and I will revisit this topic in future editions. Next week, I will be writing about pension benefits you may have in the UK and what options are available to you regarding these benefits going forward.

For anyone interested in knowing more, I am here to answer all your questions. If there is something I can help you with, please get in touch.

Darach@ipsfa.ie 087-1277155

Where an opinion is expressed, it is the personal opinion of the author only and not of the paper.

16 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

SEIZE YOUR AUTUMN

I

AM just after returning from a beautiful few day walking around parts of west Clare where finally the season of autumn has shown itself in full bloom and it gave me a sweet taste of the colours of autumn before the grey days of winter arrive. Walking as some of you may know is a form of prayer for me.

Most mornings I head off for a walk and practice being absolutely fully present to the world. I listen for the ‘wisdom’ and the ‘know how’ that the seasons and in this case autumn, offer my life.

Walking is a sort of pilgrimage and for me it is a beautiful spiritual practice that recognises that walking out into the world calls us to wider horizons and sets us on a course to try to achieve our dreams or deal with any worries or pain we may have in our life.

My prayer walks make me in someways feel younger and more alive and wanting to help people in need as much as I can.

There’s a lot of unwelcome change in our world. Moral and societal changes bother us most when we turn on our television or glance at the newspapers.

We’re painfully aware our children are growing up in a world far different from the one we knew as children. And personal changes such as children leaving home for college and university, the passing of dear friends, and in some cases the slow, steady decline in our own vitality and health.

Autumn can bring to the fore in our minds these changes. But amid all the changes, one thing, one person, never changes and that’s our eternal God.

SEIZE YOUR AUTUMN

But amid all these Autumn changes a thought that came to me during my prayer walk recently is that I love and adore the season of autumn.

Autumn for me is the season of the harvest, when we reap what we planted in the spring and summer gone before us. It is the time to gather nature’s bounty, the fruits and vegetables, the grains and nuts.

We eat them with gratitude; and we can preserve them for the coming cold winter months.

The colours change brilliantly all around us, and the sky and the sea are at their bluest against the awesome autumnal colours especially in the leaves.

The air is cooler and drier; and there seems to be more clarity of vision,

MAGICAL: Autumn is truly a beautiful, magical and wonderful time of our year

‘Each new day is like a cleared field after harvesting’

both externally and internally as well as spiritually. To me, autumn has always felt as if a new year is beginning: the glorious somewhat restful summer months come to an end, and we return to our more rigorous rituals and routines at school, at play or at work. This can be the perfect time to make resolutions for the coming last quarter of the year.

We remember the past few months and look critically at our lives: at the good things we choose to nourish and attend to, and at the negative or destructive habits and behaviours we resolve to eliminate. It is the opportune time to re-evaluate our lives, to pray and reflect more and create a strategy for moving forward.

Autumn reminds us that flexibility and adaptability are crucial for staying healthy and balanced during the winter months ahead. During this time we will want to prepare for the challenges of winter by completing unfinished projects, clearing away clutter and debris, setting extra food and fuel like turf aside, and making sure that we are physically, emotionally and spiritually prepared for the cold, dark and wintry months to come.

It amazes me how the evening’s start to shorten to their shortest and how the coldness comes back into the air.

For me, autumn is the symbolic season that reminds one to grab hold of all that life has to offer. Autumn is the fulfillment of a hopeful spring and glorious summer. To make the most of autumn is, for me, to make the most of all that is good in life.

Gone are thoughts of winter despair or a chilling and wet spring or an uneventful summer. Everything around us now in this autumn season is alive and vibrant and is at the end of full maturity. If I seize an autumn day, I believe I seize life itself

and find in it all that gives pleasure and meaning. But nothing is as beautiful as all the trees, flowers, shrubs and bushes that are in full colour.

It is truly a beautiful, magical and wonderful time of our year. It makes me think about the many blessings that autumn gives to us, such as the coolness and freshness in the air, the soft warm sun on our skin, wonderful warm to cool breezes, singing of the birds, animals of all kinds fully emerged and matured, fresh and sea waters flowing, trees, plants and flowers fully blossomed in an array of numerous colours.

We all need to be positive and embrace abundance, love, care and joy into our lives, treasuring each moment as it comes.

We get so wrapped up at times, well I know I do, with thinking about the past, a lot of the time trying to control the future and forgetting to enjoy and be at peace in the present moment of now.

In this world there is strife. There is hardship, and there is suffering. There is inequality. There is injustice. There is also abundant beauty amidst it all. And within that beauty there are reminders tucked away everywhere, encouraging us to persist, to strive, and to bring our dreams for a better world to life.

We have only to open our hearts and look, and we will see them. Please this autumn before the winter is upon us, try to embrace the positive in your life as it’s meant to be. We all need to start focusing on positive thoughts and creative ideas that make us happy and content. Less negative thinking, it only brings down our spirits and serves no purpose. Let’s all try this autumn and always to make the most of all that is good in our lives.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, I pray that as the signs of autumn begin to show themselves all around us, that you will remember that each new day is like a cleared field after harvesting.

Your thoughts, attitudes, and actions are the fruit and crops of what you planted.

This autumn choose only the fruits and crops that produced a bountiful harvest of love, joy, health, kindness, care, prosperity, mercy, compassion and peace and let that which held you back drift away. And may you give thanksgiving not only for the autumn time around you, but also for the autumn time within you.

This autumn season try to dislodge hate and replace it with love. Dislodge pride and replace it with humility. Dislodge anger and replace it with self control.

Dislodge unbelief and replace it with faith. Dislodge revenge, and replace it with forgiveness. Dislodge complaining and replace it with praise.

Dislodge evil and unkind thoughts and replace them with pure and kind thoughts.

Dislodge gossip and replace it with encouragement. Dislodge laziness and replace it with caring.

Happy Autumn everyone! I wish each of you as you read this thought, in this moment and on this day, much peace and joy. Feel this autumn, own it, squeeze the autumn fruit out of it. You have arrived at your destination; this is the present autumn of your life.

The autumn of life is a strange mixture of nostalgia, blessings, and potential. It yields the harvest of seeds we’ve sown throughout life and braces us for colder days to come. When life’s autumn arrives, we look back and better understand the way God led us; but we still have work to do—the best and fullest.

It’s a good transition time.

Enjoy a beautiful autumn!

FOCUS ON SHANNON 17

‘Shannon a well-kept secret that needs to be broadcast’ H

AVING reported a strong 2018 to date, IDA CEO Martin Shanahan will visit Shannon on Friday, Sept 21 to address Shannon Chamber and guests at a lunch in Dromoland Castle.

Shannon Chamber’s autumn lunch is being held at a time when recent investments from Edwards Life Sciences and Jaguar Land Rover have proven the Mid-West’s ability to attract and cater for new technologies.

With 210,000 people directly employed in FDI companies in Ireland, 14,000 of which are in the Mid-West, Shannon Chamber’s CEO Helen Downes is more than anxious to see this number increase and is keen to hear how the Chamber and all stakeholders can contribute to making this happen.

“In many ways, Shannon is a well-kept secret; so many products that impact our lives at many levels are produced here. We need to broadcast this capability and the skill-set that exists here in the region that contributes to making this happen,” she explained.

“Having this opportunity to listen to and

interact with the CEO of IDA Ireland is part of this process and it also gives us the opportunity to hear how we are viewed by visiting investment itineraries and areas, perhaps, we may be weak in and need to reevaluate.

“It’s also an ideal time to take stock as we face into Brexit and look at the types of arrangements companies are making to position themselves to trade in a new economic landscape. Ireland is not the only country seeking to capitalise on the inward investment opportunities Brexit may offer and Shannon and the Mid-West has the infrastructure to cater for a widespread of sectors and is very much open for this type of new business. We look forward therefore to having an in-depth discussion with Martin Shanahan on the positioning of Shannon.”

Shannon Chamber’s autumn lunch is sponsored by First Names Group and co-sponsored by Shannon Commercial Properties, Azon Recruitment Group and Laya Healthcare. For more info, log onto www.shannonchamber.ie/events-training/.

18 FOCUS ON SHANNON

Ei set for open day

T

HE Management of Ei Electronics has announced plans for an Open Day to be held on September 23, celebrating 55 Years in Shannon, and 30 Years as an Irish Company.

The Open Day involves an invitation to all employees - past and present, their families, customers, suppliers, members of the local community, schools, etc to come together and celebrate these milestone anniversaries of Ei’s presence in Shannon.

In addition to tours of the Ei factory and new Centre of Excellence, there will be a tented village with BBQ refreshments, fun for the kids, and live entertainment throughout the afternoon.

CEO Mick Guinee said, “The Ei success story has been a wonderful journey over many decades. Our aim at the outset was to maintain valuable manufacturing jobs in Shannon, and build a successful and sustainable international business. Today, after 55 years, we are the largest employer in Shannon. Our Open Day is an opportunity to celebrate these achievements with our local community, and pay tribute to employees, past and present.”

Over half a century ago, in 1963, General Electric (USA) established a fledgling Irish manufacturing operation in Shannon; the EI or ‘Emerald Isle’ Company as it was originally known. 25 years later in 1998 following a Management Buyout of GE’s Irish interests in Shannon, led by the then MD, Michael ‘Mick’ Guinee and other members of his team, Ei Electronics as we know it today was born.

Mr Guinee added, “Our success is a tribute to the dedication of very many people over several decades. We are particularly proud of the fact that over the years we have made a valuable contribution to our local community and this region, making it a better place to live and work for the current and future generations.”

The Open Day will provide a unique opportunity for a behind scenes view of the largest employer in Shannon, with over 700 employees. As Ireland’s largest indigenous electronics manufacturer, the management welcomes potential candidates to come along and see what exciting opportunities the company has to offer. This will be facilitated through a careers desk.

You Are Invited

c BOOK meeting rooms, hot desks and training rooms c CONNECT with other members c RECEIVE information on events and opportunities in Shannon c GROW your network

Factory and Centre of Excellence Tour Archives and Photos from 6 decades

Product Display BBQ Refreshments

Entertainment (Clare FM Roadcaster, Live Music) Tented Village Careers Desk Fun for the kids (face painting, balloons, penalty shoot-out) The Management of Ei Electronics invites all employees - past and present, and their families, customers, suppliers, members of the local community, local schools, etc. to join us on Sun 23rd September as we celebrate milestone anniversaries of manufacturing in Shannon.

Come along for a behind scenes view of the largest empolyer in Shannon, with over 700 employees and exports to 30 countries worldwide, an exemplar of successful indigenous Irish industry.

See the technology and meet the people that have made us a world leader in Fire and Gas sensing products over 6 decades.

Sign up today on our website www.gatewayhub.ie “Meet old friends from your time at Ei”

20 FOCUS ON SHANNON

Shannon shortlisted for aviation award SHANNON Airport’s reputation as a world leader in global aviation has been reaffirmed as it has been shortlisted for the sixth year in a row for the airline industry’s most coveted World Routes 2018 Marketing Award.

The awards will be held on September 17 in Guangzhou, China at the end of the annual three-day World Routes conference, where airlines and airports get the opportunity to discuss new route prospects.

The awards celebrate airports for their outstanding achievements in route development marketing and beneficence to the industry.

Shannon is no stranger to success in this arena, having claimed the top prize for the ‘Best Marketing of Airports’ award for airports under four million passengers in 2016 for the second time in three years. In 2017, they triumphed over three other airports to be awarded ‘Highly Commended’ honour in the same category, just behind winners Nuremburg Airport.

The awards also reward individual achievement, acknowledging the key industry players that are driving change and innovation.

The high-profile conference will bring together more than 3,000 representatives and officials from 110 countries, representing over 300 airlines and 700 airports, as well as more than 130 governments and tourism organisations.

Speaking ahead of the event Shannon Group CEO Matthew Thomas said, “These awards are the most prestigious in the industry and to be recognised by the world’s leading airlines at this level six-years-in-a-row is a huge honour.

“It also affirms the hard work, commitment and innovation of our staff and shows the high esteem Shannon Airport is held in by its airline partners.”

l SCHOOL REUNION: At the 50th anniversary of St Conaires School in Shannon is Laurie Mannix, Adrienne Mannix O’Donnell, Sean Cleary, who was the first Principal of the school, Brid Mannix and Catriona Mannix Cusack and Bridie Cleary, who is Sean’s wife

FOCUS ON SHANNON 21

2019 start date for 51 Shannon homes PÁRAIC McMAHON

S

news@clareecho.ie

OME 180 new social housing units will be in the county by July 2021 if Clare County Council meets its targets set out at the September meeting of the Social Development SPC. Planning has been granted for the construction of 51 houses in Shannon NDFA with a start date of July 2019, tender has been commenced by NDFA for the project which is to be completed by July 2021.

A further 21 houses could be on the way to Tullyglass pending approval from the Office of l DEVELOPMENT: 21 houses could be on the way in Tullyglass Public Works (OPW).

Clare County Council intends to build a further 200 Works are expected to commence next month on develhouses in Ennis under the Local Infrastructure Housing opments in Clonlara and Feakle which will see nine and thirteen units constructed by October 2019 and April 2020 Activation Fund (LIHAF). Infrastructural consultants will respectively. Ennis will have 68 extra houses, the most of be appointed for this project in the coming weeks.

Administrative Officer, Mairead Corbett emphasised the which will be at Ashline (41) followed by Cuan an Chláir, difficulty at present in securing houses for leasing due to Cahercalla (15) and Roslevan (8).

Five modular housing units will be developed at an ex- the “availability of property”.

She added that property developers are “trying to maxiisting traveller accommodation site, Ballaghboy on the Quin Rd. mise the density of housing in Clare”.

Shanahans is among Top 100 stores of year SHANAHAN Paints Albany, based in Smithstown, Shannon as well as Ennis, know the paint business inside out. Named as one the country’s Top 100 stores of 2018 in the Retail Excellence Awards, Shanahans stock all the top quality paints brands; Fleetwood Prestige, Vogue, & Pantone ranges; Dulux Signature, Colortrend and Albany.

Designer ranges include Farrow & Ball and Little Greene.

When it comes to wood care; Shanahans stock of Ronseal, Sadolin, Rustins, Cuprinol, Sikkens and Osmo oil.

“All our staff are professional trained and can advise our customers on colour and help them get the perfect finish for their home inside or outside,” says Leonard Shanahan.

“Both our stores have the latest colour Spectro scanners and we can scan material, lamp shades etc to find the exact colour match instore.”

Dulux colour consultants visit Shanahans’ stores monthly for colour events to help customers with colour schemes and have some great decorating tips; check Shanahans Facebook page for up coming dates.

Shanahans are also delighted to announce the new addition of Home Square to their store Interiors for every space in your homes. Coming soon to the Ennis store, Home Square is described as the “Quirky side of Interior design with a splash of colour thrown in”. There’s also a large selection of cushions, chairs and artwork on display along with a selection of Yankee candles instore.

Open 8am-6pm, Mon-Sat. Free car parking. Find us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; shanahanpaints.com.

22 FOCUS ON SHANNON

Still sparkling after 32 years Gleeson Jewellers are the longest running business at Skycourt

S

TOCKING stunning jewellery and providing excellent customers for the last 32 years, Gleeson Jewellers are the longest running business in the Skycourt Shopping Centre, Shannon.

They are the country’s largest stockist of English Ladies Porcelain Dolls.

Based on wedding dress designer Thelma Madine’s creations, shop owner Rita can’t keep the hand painted dolls on the shelves.

Disney princesses (complete with matching cups and saucers) and Communion dolls are also available in this range.

Gleeson Jewellers offer the latest collections of top brands such as Chrysalis, Newbridge, Citizen, Diamond Fire, Spar-

kling Jewels and Italian designer Cristallo Di Milano. If you plan on popping the question, check out their fabulous range of engagement rings.

Gleeson Jewellers carry an extensive range of 9ct, 18ct yellow and white gold, platinum and sterling silver. They are committed to the principle of long term customer relationships building trust and care.

Gleeson Jewellers offer an engraving service, as well as repairing jewellery, watches and clocks. Call the shop on (061) 363447 for more information.

l I CAN SEE CLEARLY NOW: Work done by Millenium Glass

Millenium are a glass act MILLENIUM glass in Shannon Skycourt are delighted to be suppliers of the Palladio door range.

Benifits of this range include; 65mm fibreglass reinforced monocoque composite door; 12 year manufacturing warranty; 10 pin locking system; Maintenance free; Number 1 door on the market for heat efficiency and security; Double rebate for air tight seal; Triple glazed glass; and 4 hinges.

Call now for a free quotation.

Additional Servicesat Millenium Glass include a service where we repair old aluminium/Pvc door handles, hinges and lockes.

We can source 95% of door handles and hinges, no matter how old. We can re-seal your old aluminium/Pvc sashes with new

hinges saving you in hundreds in heating bills. We also fit fouble glazed units to old windows which have fogged up. This is a quick and clean job and only takes a few minutes. Old patio doors can be repaired as sliding becomes very difficult over the years. This can damage the frame beyond repair. This can be repaired within the hour and will save larger expense. Afterwards your sliding door is like new and easy to use. *Free Callout charge*

For more information, visit us at 2B, Skycourt Shopping Centre, Shannon or call us on 061 340 474 or 086 8622 434. Visit us on Facebook at Millenium Glass.

Motoring

Electric odyssey as Leaf drives from Poland to Japan

A

FTER an epic 16,000-kilometre drive, polar explorer Marek Kaminski has arrived in Japan, having started his landmark #NoTraceExpedition in Poland three months earlier in Europe’s best-selling electric vehicle, the new Nissan Leaf.

Marek’s eco-friendly trip took him from Zakopane, Poland through eight countries over two continents and a host of varying driving conditions, passing through Lithuania, Belarus, Russia, Mongolia, China and South Korea on his way to the finishing point in Tokyo.

The “no trace left behind” mantra of the #NoTraceExpedition demonstrates the feasibility of zero-emission travel by electric car, and sets the example for explorers wanting to visit the world’s furthest corners without damaging the environment.

Though Marek can claim to be the first man to have trekked to the North and South Poles in the same year, his expedition by electric car is likely to be just as memorable.

Among Marek’s adventures, detours along dirt tracks in Mongolia and some

inventive charging solutions in Russia were notable highlights. Unfazed by the first 16,000 kilometres, Marek will now get back behind the wheel and complete the return journey from Tokyo to Poland in the same car.

The new, 100 per cent electric Nissan Leaf is at the forefront of Nissan’s Intelligent Mobility strategy, featuring forward-thinking technology designed to make it better than ever to drive and own.

With a new 40kWh battery yielding a combined driving cycle range of 270km under the new, real world-reflective WLTP emissions and economy framework, the Leaf offers customers an assured and dynamic driving experience.

In his mission to challenge the myths around sustainable travel, Marek sees the new Leaf as the perfect partner. The car produces zero tailpipe emissions and offers a host of features including Nissan e-Pedal and ProPILOT semi-autonomous driving system to make travel effortless.

Marek commented: “For me, this journey is not just about reaching my destination – it is also about making a simple, brilliant

lEPIC JOURNEY: Nissan Leaf undertakes 16,000km cross-continent trek

change to be more sustainable.

“Whether in the wilds of Russia, on remote Mongolian dirt tracks or in the bustling streets of Tokyo, the Leaf has been a reliable partner throughout. The car and features such as ProPILOT were impressively capable in tough driving conditions, and even in remote areas with little infrastructure, we kept the Leaf charged and on the move.”

The Nissan Leaf is the best-selling electric vehicle in history, having reached over 340,000 units sold since the first-generation model was launched in 2010.

With more than 41,000 units sold in Europe since its introduction in October 2017, the new Nissan Leaf continues to extend this legacy, helping pioneer a sustainable future that unites intelligent power, intelligent driving and intelligent integration.

Property

Beautiful homes all over the County UNLOCK YOUR DREAM

SOUGHT AFTER SUBURB L BALLAGHBOY, DOORA, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

OCATED in the much sought after residential suburb of Ballaghboy, just 3 Km from Ennis town centre and circa 2.5 Km from the M18 Motorway on landscaped site of circa 0.75 acres, is this stunning stone fronted 5 bedroomed family home presented for sale in excellent condition throughout. On entering the vast open entrance hall with void area to first floor landing, the well laid out living accommodation leads onto the main reception positioned to the front of the property and the stunning open plan kitchen/dining and split level living which

€399,000

further opens onto the valued ceiling sun lounge. From the kitchen which features modern solid oak wall and base units with granite work surfaces is the separate utility which further links to a cloak room, downstairs shower room and the first of the five bedrooms.

The spacious first floor landing leads to the four first floor bedrooms with the master bedroom featuring En-suite bathroom and all bedrooms featuring built in wardrobes. The property boasts extensive timber flooring, tiling and quality fixture and fittings throughout. To the outside the

cut stone gated entrance wall leads onto the tarmacadam drive which further extends to the detached garage to the side of the property. To the rear the extensive patio, the steps down to the passing stream, the mature trees and the vast lawn areas gives this home the tranquil setting and at the

door step of every possible amenity. This is a must view and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL No. 0022995 Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200

PHASE ONE ON SALE - LAST TWO HOUSES REMAINING An exclusive development of ‘A’ rated 3 & 4 bedroom luxury family homes

Sycamore Drive is a short stroll from Ennis, a bustling vibrant town, offering all the conveniences of modern family living on your doorstep. The development comprises a mix of three and four bedroom semi-detached and detached family homes, ranging in size from 1,296 sq.ft to 2,000 sq.ft.

Keogh Homes are delighted to present to the market an exceptional development of 47, stylish, energy efficient homes. Finished to the highest standard throughout and designed for modern living using the most sustainable, technologically advanced and energy efficient materials available.

PRICES FROM €260,000 Sized from c. 1,296 sqft to 2,000 sqft.

PSL - 002295

T: 065 6840200

EchoSport Kilmaley make strides at senior JAMES MULVIHILL

SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP RD 3 ROUND-UP INAGH/KILNAMONA have qualified for the Quarter-Finals for the first time since 2013 after a 0-19 to 1-13 win over Crusheen in Cusack Park on Sunday. It promised to be the game of the weekend and it delivered in terms of intensity. Inagh/Kilnamona dominated and led by nine points in the early stages of the second half. However, Crusheen showed heart to get back on level terms coming down the home straight. Inagh/Kilnamona scored the final three points and manager Fergal Hegarty would have been a relieved man at the final whistle.

Inagh/Kilnamona: Pa Kelly; Brian Foudy (0-1), Sean O’Mahony, Haulie Vaughan; Damien Lafferty, David Fitzgerald (0-4), Kevin Hehir; Tomas Kelly (0-1), Darren Cullinan; Evan McNamara (0-1), Jason McCarthy, Conor Tiernay; David Mescal (0-2), Niall Arthur (0-7,5fs), Aidan McCarthy (0-3).

Subs: Seamus Foudy for Kelly (45 mins), Gerry Coote for McNamara (48 mins).

Crusheen: Donal Tuohy; John Brigdale, Cathal Dillon, Alan Brigdale; Gavin O’Brien, Cian Dillon, Ciaran O’Doherty (0-3,2fs,1 65); Patrick Vaughan (02fs), Eanna McMahon; Jamie Fitzgibbon (0-2), Fergus Kennedy, Darragh O’Doherty; Mark Perrill (0-2), Cillien Mullins (0-2), Conor O’Donnell (1-1).

Subs: Shaun Dillon for J. Brigdale (35 mins), Breffni Horner for D. O’Doherty (35 mins), Ethan O’Donnell (0-1) for Mullins (50 mins), Joseph Meaney for Perrill (54 mins), Niall Kearney for Vaughan (60 mins).

KILMALEY advanced after a comfortable 2-23 to 1-15 win over Tulla. Tom O’Rourke put his hand up for future involvement in this Championship with an impressive display scoring five points from play. Kilmaley led by 1-13 to 0-04 at half time which included a goal from Michael O’Neill. Tulla to their credit didn’t throw in the towel and Darragh Corry scored their goal to give them hope coming down the home straight. However, Kilmaley halted their progress with a goal of their own through substitute Daire Keane. Kilmaley have done well so far in this campaign after gaining promotion from the Intermediate ranks and will be difficult opponents come the quarter-final.

Scorers for Kilmaley were: Cian Moloney (0-7,6fs) Tom O’Rourke (0-5), Michael O’Neill (1-1), Michael O’Malley (0-4, 1 side-line), Daire Keane (10), Sean O’Loughlin (0-2), Joseph Carmody (0-2fs), Aidan McGuane (0-1), Sean Kennedy (0-1).

Scorers for Tulla were: Niall Bolton (0-6fs), Darragh Corry (1-2), Colin Corbett (0-3), David Meehan (0-2), Shane Hunt (0-1), Padraig Mulconry (0-1).

O’CALLAGHAN’S MILLS had a comprehensive 5-16 to 1-07 win over Wolfe Tones in Cusack Park on Saturday.

The Mills took control when Sean Cotter scored his first goal and he added a second midway through the first half.

Aidan Fawl scored two goals of his own and Tones had no answer to the Mills who advance to the knockout stages for the first time since 2014.

Scorers for O’Callaghan’s Mills were: Sean Cotter (2-2), Aidan Fawl (2-1), Gary Cooney (1-3), Jacob Loughnane (0-5,4fs), Colin Crehan (0-2), Patrick Donnellan (0-1), Bryan Donnellan (0-1), Aidan O’Gorman (0-1).

Scorers for Wolfe Tones were: Aron Shanagher (1-3,3fs), Dylan Frawley (0-1), Cian O’Rourke (0-1), Jack Cunningham (0-1), Kevin McCafferty (0-1).

CRATLOE moved into the knockout stages for the 10th time in 11 seasons following a comfortable 1-20 to 0-08 victory over Clarecastle in the Park on Saturday. The 2014 champions led by 1-09 to 0-04 at half time thanks to a Rian Considine goal. Clarecastle were very disappointing scoring four points from play for the entire game.

Scorers for Cratloe were: Billy Connors (0-7,2fs), Rian Considine (1-2), Conor McGrath (0-4), Diarmuid Ryan (0-3), Podge Collins (0-2), Sean Collins (0-2).

Scorers for Clarecastle were: Bobby Duggan (0-4,2fs), Stephen Ward (03,2fs), Patrick Kelly (0-1).

l BREAKING BAD: (Above) Daire Keane’s hurley is left akin to a hockey stick after a clash with Tulla’s David McInerney; (below) Inagh-Kilnamona’s Jason McCarthy tussles with Conor O’Donnell of Crusheen Photos by Martin Connolly

WEEKEND RESULTS CLARE SHC ROUND 3: O’Callaghan’s Mills 5-16 Wolfe Tones 1-07 Cratloe 1-20 Clarecastle 0-08 Kilmaley 2-23 Tulla 1-15 Inagh/Kilnamona 0-19 Crusheen 1-13 RELEGATION SEMIS: Newmarket-On-Fergus 1-16 Whitegate 0-11 Clonlara 1-17 St. Joseph’s Doora-Barefield 2-12

Whitegate and DooraBarefield will contest the Relegation Final with the losers been relegated to the Intermediate ranks for the 2019 season.

SPORT 27

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018 CAMOGIE ROUND-UP Intermediate Feakle/Killanena 2-22 Broadford 1-11 Broadford had two points on the board before Feakle/ Killanena registered their first score, a well taken goal from Robyn Conway. With the sides level after some see-saw scoring, Feakle hit six unanswered points. A five point HT lead (1-11 to 0-9) was extended from the throw-in when Regan Conway raised a white flag, and the East Clare amalgamation never looked back to run out easy winners.

Feakle/Killanena; Shauna Canny: Aoife Tuohy, Ciara Minogue, Eileen Daly; Ella Mac Namara, Evelyn Duggan, Ellie Edge O Neill; Regan Conway, Roisin McMahon; Polly Edge O Neill, Laura McGrath, Rachel McNamara; Claire McNamara, Robyn Conway, Clodagh Gray.

Subs: Zi Yan Spillane For Duggan.

Lorna McNamara for McMahon

Minor C Shield Final Ruan/Corofin 3-7 Cratloe 1-8 In a very tense game in Parteen, Ruan/Corofin emerged

victorious by 3-7 to 1-8.

Cratloe at half time led 1-3 to 0-4 however Ruan/Corofin got on top. Goals from Lisa Whelan, Sarah O’Donoghue and Amy O’Donoghue helped Ruan/Corofin to the spoils.

Ruan/Corofin: Emer Kenny; Síofra Mi Lachtnáin, Ciara O’Grady; Sinéad O’Halloran, Aoife Stankard, Sarah O’Donoghue; Ciara Corbett, Lisa Whelan; Eve O’Connor, Michelle Power, Amy O’Donoghue; Caoimhe Corbett, Maeve Stankard.

Cratloe: Maria Healy; Niamh Murphy, Abbie Mason; Megan O’Conor, Michaela Arthur, Cliona Murphy; Sarah McMahon, Ava Gardner; Jade McMahon, Aoife Murphy, Niamh O’Leary; Emer Flanagan, Aoife O’Brien.

U16A Championship Scarriff Ogonnelloe 1-4 Feakle/Killanena 0-9 A good start was crucial for Feakle/Killanena as they led by four before Alva Rodgers put Scarriff-Ogonnelloe on the board. Maria Scanlan scored the only goal and at half time there was only a goal in it. Scarriff-Ogonnelloe pushed closer in the second half and with just a point be-

tween the teams, Feakle/Killanena’s Lorna McNamara extended their lead with a point to seal the win.

Scarriff Ogonnelloe: Laura McGrath, Aoife Lynch, Lisa O’Grady, Robyn McKenna, Kate Walsh, Jennifer Daly, Yolanda Ramirez, Alva Rodgers, Aoife Kelly, Kate O’Mahony, Alison McGee, Labhaoise O’Donnell, Maria Scanlan, Cliona McNamara, Abby Walsh, Bonnie Wiley Murphy, Lorraine Grady, Maeve O’Brien, Caoimhe O’Donnell, Aine Scanlan, Emma O’Mahony, Eimear Rodgers, Eibhlis Coleman, Roisin Collins, Danielle Beston. Subs: Bonnie Wiley-Murphy for Yolanda Ramirez and Lorraine Grady for Kate O’Mahony Feakle/Killanena: Roisin Quiligan, Hannah Moloney, Johanna Fogarty, Keva Conway, Rachael Walsh, Claire McNamara, Aoibheann Madden, Zi Yan Spillane, Maeve Brady, Siobhan Touhy, Louise Keehan, Lorna McNamara, Jesse O’Connor, Allanah Fox, Sinead McMahon, Rachael Sweeney, Aine Bowes, Araya Clune, Clodagh Moloney, Edel Cusack, Katie Moloney, Deirdre Spillane, Hannah Smyth.

Referee: Johnny Healy

U16B: St Josephs 6-3 Ruan 2-6 U16C: Tulla 3-1 Whitegate 6-2

How to deal with pressure moments

I

T IS fitting we discuss how tour professionals handle pressure golf shots, on the run up to the Ryder Cup. The Ryder Cup is probably one of the only golf events where the crowd go wild - which I believe is a pity. Golf tournaments need more crowd interaction, like we see at events like the Ryder Cup and the Par 3 16th at TPC Scottsdale in Phoenix.

The pressure on the first tee for these golfers, whether they are rookies or not, is almost unbearable. At the Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor I sat beside the players’ partners at the first tee and the atmosphere and pressure was indescribable for any athlete to have to handle.

Just look at one of the world’s greatest golfers, Tigers Woods’ opening tee shot at The Ryder Cup at the K-Club; his ball hooked some 50 or 60 yards left of the fairway into a pond.

Pressure can cause havoc within ourselves and it can cause you to have little or no control over your body movements at that moment, so learning techniques to help handle these moments will help you regain control of your body to hit that perfect golf shot when you need to.

The most

important aspect of handling pressure is having a pre-shot routine you are comfortable with. Pay attention to your current routine we all generally have one but we

aren’t fully aware of it. The secret is to understand yours and practice it so you’re ready when the occasion comes. It could be in the final group of a playoff for the captain’s prize, on the 19th tee in a match play sudden death or simply having to tee off in front of a crowd on the first. We’ve all experienced this type of pressure and in this moment if you just focus on your pre-shot routine I guarantee that uncomfortable feeling of stress will slowly start to lift.

The first step to understanding your own routine is the next time your playing, start to take notice of what you do just before and after you hit a golf shot. Do you take a deep breath? Do you waggle your club before you take your backswing ? Once you are aware of every aspect of your routine, write it down step by step and then practice it at home or at the range. Make changes to it if you feel you need to. It’s not by accident touring golf professionals have mental coaches that help them to work on their focus and pre-shot routines so when the occassion is stressful they can still hit the perfect golf shot. Start to become aware of your routine, practice it and make additional changes where needed to help you relax when you need to hit the perfect shot while under pressure.

Taking a couple of deep breaths and slowly exhaling can help to get your heart rate back to normal and can easily be added to your routine.

Watch those opening tee shots in France at the end of the month and see how the top players will stick to their own routine while trying to find that opening fairway at The Ryder Cup. #EUROPE

7th heaven

FEAKLE KILLANENA have taken the honours in the Kilmacud Crokes 7s. Setting up a final with Whitegate, the atmosphere was electric with both teams having already played each other in the Intermediate and with many of the girls in school together. Feakle/Killanena’s overall skill and movement of the ball proved the difference winning out on a score line of 4-8 to 1-5. President of the Camogie Association Kathleen Woods presented Aoife Tuohy with the Shield.

Feakle/Killanena: Shauna Canny, Eileen Daly Aoife Tuohy, Ella Mac Namara, Laura McGrath, Ellie Edge O Neill, Regan Conway, Evelyn Duggan, Roisin McMahon and Robyn Conway.

PGA Golf Professional

#PadraigKnowsGolf

Padraig McGrath

GOLF ANALYSIS

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB TUESDAY FOURBALL 4TH SEPTEMBER 2018 1st Michael Meagher & Rodger Mc Mahon 31pts 2nd Don Ryan & Walter O’ Brien 29pts 3rd Michael Sullivan & Eddie Glenny 29pts Declan Hanley & Paul Higgins 29pts Wednesday 9 Hole Scramble 5/09/2018 1st Dave Pender, Kieran Patton & Mike Dempsey 28.4 2nd Johnny Kearse, Joe O’Brien & Mike Cummins 29.2 3rd Pat McInerney, Pat Cuddy & John McCarthy 31.4 Friday Open Singles.

7/09/2018 1st Steve Burns(14) 40pts 2nd Ciaran MacMathuna(15) 38pts Gross: Matthew Whelan(5) 31pts 3rd David Barry(13) 37pts CSS Home and Away 70 = 36 pts Gent’s 4 Ball B/B(9/10hdc) 18 Holes Sat.8th /Sun.9th Sept. 2018 1st Padraig Cusack(16) & Cathal O’ Neill(14) 43pts

2nd Ian Myatt(8) & Noel O’ Connor(16) 43pts 3rd John Mc Namara(11) & Eddie Glenny(17) 42pts 4TH Ronan Herbert(7) & Leo Herbert(10) 42pts

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB Open Singles Weds 05/09/18 1. Liam O’Connor(13) 40(BOT) 2. Alan Considine,Lahinch (2) 40 CSS 33pts(75) Sept Medal 8 & 9’Sept 1. Chris McGrath(11) 72 (BOT) 2. Jason Considine(2) 72 Gross Anthony Sweeney(0) 72 4. David Greene(14) 73(BOT) 5. Colm Mullen(6) 73(BOT) CSS 75(33 points) Upcoming Fixtures 15/16 Sept Club Singles (G) 22/23 Sept Club Championship (W)

28 CLASSIFIEDS

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CAR FOR SALE 2008 Honda Accord 2.2 i-CDTi Sport 4dr Immaculate condition, Built in Sat Nav, Sunroof, Parking Sensors… CALL FOR MORE INFO ON 087-9652998

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COMPUTERS FOR SALE COMPUTERS FOR SALE LAPTOPS, DESKTOP PC WITH WiFi & DVD CONTACT: 089 – 459 8269

DOG CARE AND KENNELS

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30 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

Your Horoscopes Sep 13 IT IS logical that the more effort you put in, the more rewards you reap. You’ve been working hard, so right now you deserve a break. It’s not that you’re tired and need a rest -- more likely, you need space and time to gain perspective on all you’ve done. You deserve a big pat on the back, and the realization that you are capable of truly amazing things.

Rack up some leisure time.

Taurus

Gemini

EVERY now and again you need to reassess your priorities and see how well they fit into your daily routine -- are you creating enough time in your day for play? Keeping your calendar jam-packed may be a nice way to stay in the centre of everyone’s life, but it’s also a good way to lose perspective on your own. Enjoy a quiet cup of coffee, take a walk or call a friend.

ALL signs are pointing to a fantastic new beginning for you and a certain someone, but everything might not be quite ready to move forward today. Things are going to happen slowly this time, so remember what they say -- anything worth having is worth waiting for. Luckily, a big payoff is due today in another area of your life, and it’s one you should share.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

REFLECTIONS can’t just be found in mirrors -- today, seeing your true self isn’t really possible unless you take time to be honest and accept your imperfections. Put away your ego and you will be able to learn a valuable lesson about your insecurities. Family traits are not written in stone -- who you are is not predetermined, you are a work in process. You can make all the changes you want to make, you just have to start -- and then keep going.

TODAY vision is important -- the vision to see what is right in front of you, and the vision to see what is coming down the road. Both types will come into play: Early in the day you will notice a few foreboding clouds in the sky -- take the measures you need to take to ensure that you and your people avoid them. Also, a bolt of recognition strikes you when someone expresses how much they care about you -- you see that there is so much love right in front of you!

YOU’LL have a strong ability to pick things up quickly today -- all you have to do is take one glance at how to do something, and you’ll be an instant pro! Learning by example will apply to all areas of your life -- witnessing some tension in someone else’s relationship today will teach you what you want -- or, more importantly, what you don’t want. Someone’s bizarre behavior will inspire you to take the opposite approach (you will have much more success).

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

LITTLE by little, your confidence is expanding, and you’ll see that more clearly than ever today. People are noticing a change in you, although few of them are secure enough in themselves to tell you how impressed they are by your accomplishments. Others may be holding onto a bit of jealousy, but that’s their choice and it really isn’t coloring how much they do love you.

GATHER input today from all sources and keep an open mind about what they may have to say. Make an especially strong effort to connect with your family -- either in person, on the phone or online. Even if there’s no big issue to discuss, if you share the latest news with them you may get some inspiring feedback. At work, remember that communication is a two-way street; put your energy into having real conversations with higher ups. Good is coming.

1/1

Aries

YOU’RE moving into a very introspective, low-key phase of life -- today and the next few days will be all about keeping things quiet, being more inward and spending your social time homebound rather than out on the town. If a friend has their heart set on a crazy night out, find out if they’d be up for a more mellow affair. If they take you up on it, this could be a great opportunity to get to know them better.

SEEK out the simple pleasures today. Truly, there’s not much you need right now to make you happy -- everything is already in you, as you will come to more fully understand today. Events may catch you off guard, but there’s a strong sense of balance around you right now, so you’ll handle things with grace. In a relationship, small efforts will move the biggest obstacles. Sure, things may not move as quickly as you want, but you’ll get satisfaction just from trying.

The Clare Echo Crossword

ACROSS

1 What makes perfect doctors? (8) 5 Fish held by Oscar Peterson (4) 8 Groom about to enter enclosure (5) 9 Vague family member stripped bark (7) 11 Hector’s switched lights (7) 12 Get on with directors? (5) 13 Go from place to place to acquire device (6) 15 Undiluted sound in passage (6) 18 Animal or bird entering empty locker (5) 20 Article overhauled for concert (7) 23 Tool spotted by poor writer (7) 24 Foe reconciled in Yemen? (5)

LIKE any relationship, friendships are a give-and-take. But if you are feeling lately like you’ve been giving a lot and not getting much in return, make an effort to communicate this issue to your friend (very subtly) today. If they’re just not getting what you’re saying, then they may be too much in their own head to listen. Instead of pushing the issue further, wait a while. Save the conversation for another time.

AS YOUR perseverance starts to peter out today, try a little positive thinking to get yourself going again. Focus on the reason you’re still plugging along and on the goal you want to attain. It may help you to know that behind the scenes, things are really picking up. Unbeknownst to you, all signs are pointing toward a definite success. Look out for all the warmer smiles and heartier hello’s that are sent your way -- they can also put some wind in your sail.

25 Distribute cards to do business (4) 26 Part of aircraft also involved motion (8)

DOWN

1 Bird seed extremely important (5) 2 A word we hear in a German accent? So it’s alleged (7) 3 Part of forgotten thespian (5) 4 Sail about to find a missile (6) 6 A long time taken up in scene of conflict (5) 7 Poet confused about free stone (7) 10 Navigator in Atlantic finally repaired boat (5) 13 Arthurian knight possessed after festival (7) 14 Noblemen one ignored in silly serial (5)

16 Songs of workers crossing border (7) 17 Storage unit for illustrator? (6) 19 Tick tea or coffee (5)

21 Inferior note held by fellow (5) 22 Sort of alloy that’s true (5)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

QUIZ 31

THURSDAY, SEP 13 2018

The Clare Echo Quiz LOCAL HISTORY

1

What year was Wolfe Tones na Sionna founded?

1947, 1957, 1967

2

In what year was Éire Óg founded?

1942, 1952, 1962

year was St Flannan’s Col3What lege founded?

1846, 1906, 1946

what year was Tulla GAA club 6Infounded?

1887,1897, 1907

what century was Bunratty 7InCastle built?

13th, 14th, 15th

The legendary Maire Rua (or Red 8 Mary) resided in which Clare Castle?

Knappogue Castle, Lemanagh Castle, Dromoland Castle

Boru was born in which year was Kilmurry Ibrick9Brian East Clare village?

4Inanewhat GAA Club founded?

1904, 1914, 1924

Killaloe, Scariff, Clonlara

was Sixmilebridge 5InGAAwhatClubyearfounded?

century was Knappogue 10What Castle Built?

1902, 1903, 1904

14th, 15th, 16th

l QUESTION 8: The legendary Maire Rua (or Red Mary) resided in which Clare Castle?

1. 1967 2. 1952 3. 1846 4. 1914 5. 1904

6. 1887 7. 15th 8. Lemanagh Castle 9. Killaloe 10. 15th

l QUESTION 10: What century was Knappogue Castle Built?

ANSWERS

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Turnpike, Ennis

Image NLI.ie / Collection: Lawrence Photograph Collection

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