The Clare Echo 13/12/18

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13 Dec 2018

CLARE’S TRUE HEROES V OLUNTEER Mary Fitzgerald and HPV vaccine advocate Laura Brennan have been recognised nationally for their respective efforts in making the world a better place.

Mary has been named Christine Buckley Volunteer of the Year at the Volunteer Ireland Awards. Over one million people in Ireland volunteer and these awards aim to say thank you for the hard work, dedication and impact of volunteers across the country.

Mary has volunteered with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta and wel-

comed victims of domestic abuse into her own home, before founding Clare Haven Services in 1993.

Meanwhile Ennis native Laura Brennan - who told her story on the Late Late show earlier this year - was also a winner on the night in the Campaigning and Awareness Raising category. At just 25 years of age, Laura has been diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer and spends her time raising awareness of the HPV vaccine.

Full story PAGE 4

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Index NEWS

2-17

WINE TIPS

19

ENTERTAINMENT

20-22

COMMUNITY

24-25

BUSINESS

32-35

MOTORING

36-39

PROPERTY

40-41

CLASSIFIEDS

43-45

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

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

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l SHINING BRIGHT: Marian McMahon, Miltown Malbay and Aine Quinn, Tubber taking part in a candle light walk in Ennis on International Human Rights day, the last day of the 16 days of action opposing violence against women and to remember all of the women who have been murdered in the last years in particular in County Clare

Photo by Arthur Ellis

‘Perfect storm for regional towns’ PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

C

LARE has seen a population increase of 26 percent according to a recently published report.

Increased costs, the abolition of town councils and high vacancy rates have all contributed to a “perfect storm” for regional towns according to a report by the Society of Chartered Surveyors. Negative effects of increased online sales, poor broadband, and Dublin-centric- development were also highlighted.

Small Irish towns outside the catchment area of Ireland’s five main cities with populations between 1,500 and 10,000 were focused on.

In Kilrush 40 per cent of the population travel outside the town for work while in Sixmilebridge 91 percent leave the village to get to their place of employment. According to the report, “the lower this percentage, the healthier a settlement is as it can retain workers with the employment opportunities it has. However, when a settlement has greater numbers leaving for work it can lack vibrancy or thriving economy to retain people”.

Newmarket-on-Fergus is listed as one of the top ten improving towns for reducing unemployment. In 2011, 203 people were unemployed and in 2016 it fell by 43 percent to 116. Kilrush

recorded a 4 percent increase in unemployment and is one of the top ten least improving towns, 340 individuals were without work there in 2016.

With five shopping centres and two retail parks, Clare has the second lowest amount in Munster. The report states “perhaps the most significant challenge to traditional town centre retailing has been the growth in numbers of out-of-town shopping centres and retail parks.”

A case study included emphasised the role Tidy Towns groups can play in the locality. “Tidy Towns encourages communities to improve their local environment, so it becomes a better place to live, work and visit. By pitting similar sized towns against one another, a rivalry aspect exists which adds impetus to the works undertaken by each community group. Over the years, Tidy Town committees have sprung up in every town and village and are now an important stakeholder in town rejuvenation”.

Author of the report, Stephen Purcell maintained “the challenges facing Ireland’s town centres are daunting” but underlined “they are not insurmountable”.

“The report recommends the establishment of an Irish Town Partnership in order to enable the sharing of best practice, innovation and mentoring from one town to another. It’s clear many of our small towns need to undergo an ‘Operation Transformation’, but as that programme shows, long-term leadership and commitment is required”.

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NEWS

National honours for Clare women STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

M

ARY Fitzgerald (left) from Clare has been named Christine Buckley Volunteer of the Year at the Volunteer Ireland Awards, while Laura Brennan (right) was also recognised for her work in campaigning for cervical cancer.

From an early age Mary wanted to make a difference to people’s lives. In her teens, she was moved by the pictures on TV of the street children in India and she travelled to volunteer with Mother Teresa’s Missionaries of Charity in Calcutta.

On her return, she was touched by the plight of Clare families fleeing from domestic abuse who were forced to stay overnight in the reception of the local Garda station. As there was nowhere in Clare for them to go, Mary took some of these women and children into her own home.

Wanting to do something about the situation, she founded Clare Haven Services in '93 which led to the development of a 24 hour refuge for those escaping domestic abuse.

Mary is also passionate about

helping girls and boys identify abusive patterns early in a relationship and in the 90s she delivered school workshops on healthy relationships.

This has become part of the current SPHE programme in schools.

Laura Brennan was also a winner on the night in the Campaigning and Awareness Raising category. At just 25 years of age, Laura has been diagnosed with terminal cervical cancer and spends her time raising aware-

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According to Clare Volunteer Centre Manager Sharon Meaney “Mary and Laura are truly inspirational and the embodiement of the volunteering spirit. Mary saw a need in our commnunity and took action to make a difference in people’s lives while Laura is a tireless advocate despite dealing with a serious illness. Hopefully their stories will inspire others to get involved in their communities.”

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THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

CHILDCARE COSTS FALL IN CO CLARE PÁRAIC McMAHON

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CHILDCARE costs fell in Clare and five other counties in Ireland last year.

Nationally the average spend each week on childcare is €178 which is a €4 increase on figures from last year whereas in Clare, €157.72 is the standard fee paid which is a €1.70 decrease on the previous year’s equivalent. The statistics were presented as part of the Early Years Sector Profile Report 2017/2018, developed and published by Pobal for the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA).

4,000 childcare services in the country were surveyed as part of the report. It revealed that close to 203,000 children are attending crèches and daycare facilities which is a jump of 9%. The same percentage represents the number of vacant places of children enrolled.

2,827 Clare children availed of Early Childhood Care and Education which the Department of Children also recognises as the ‘free pre-school year’.

Childcare providers in the county also benefitted from one of the biggest reductions

in commercial rates. They were slashed by 22% to €1,737 with only Leitrim having lower rates. Waterford (90%), Longford (84%), Offaly (73%), Kildare (71%) and South Dublin (62%) recorded significant increases in this regard.

Noeleen Moran who is the Sinn Féin General Election candidate in the county was critical of the figures. "There is an urgent need to tackle the crippling cost of childcare for working families." She said the weekly average paid is the “equivalent to a second mortgage”.

Clare recorded the lowest amount of staff turnover at 18%, the national average is 25%, 542 people are employed in this sector with an average wage of €11.66. Ms Moran claimed several women were leaving this industry. “It is universally recognized the high cost of childcare is one of the leading factors pushing many women into low paid jobs with flexible hours, leaving them vulnerable to precarious types of employment contracts”.

She added, “Historically, women have been discouraged by the Irish State from working outside the home. Even today, it remains a less than encouraging choice given that many women earn 14% less than men."

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NEWS

Nobody knew of Hillery retirement except family PÁRAIC McMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

ONG serving Fianna Fáil councillor, Michael Hillery is to retire from politics.

A nephew of sixth President of Ireland, Dr. Patrick Hillery, Michael announced at a selection convention for the Ennistymon area on Sunday that he will step down from politics in May and not seek re-election to Clare County Council.

“I knew the convention was coming up and I thought it was the ideal opportunity to announce it to the Fianna Fáil organisation who in the beginning asked me to stand in 1985 so I felt the opportune time to go was back at the convention where it all started and announce it there”.

It comes as a surprise for Fianna Fáil. Both Michael and Cllr Richard Nagle were the only nominees to represent the party in Ennistymon. The Spanish Point native’s decision to with-

draw his name from convention was not expected by Fianna Fáil.

“No one knew that I was going to do what I did today except for the family, it was a shock to them so it will take a bit of time for them to choose the person to replace me”.

In his first interview since declaring his retirement, Michael told The Clare Echo his decision “was extremely difficult” and comes as a result of boundary changes which has weakened his support base.

“I’ve been thinking about it with my family for quite a while.

I had a look at the division of the boundaries, north and south of West Clare, the way it is divided this time has made it very awkward for me, I’m right in the corner when I look one side of my house I’m looking at the Atlantic Ocean and the other side I’m looking at houses in the Kilrush area so I’m really geographically very disadvantaged this time.

"Previously when West Clare and North Clare were divided in two, there was a lot more voters in the North Clare area that have

lCALLING IT A DAY: Cllr Michael Hillery is to retire from politics

after first being asked to stand for Fianna Fáil in 1985

Photo by Gary Collins

been transferred down to south of Miltown over along by Cloonanaha and right into Inagh, there’s about 600 votes that have been transferred down that were in the North Clare area when it was on its own the previous time”.

The Hillery name is synonymous with politics in Clare and beyond but Michael stated that his two daughters, Áine or Olivia “are not interested” in trying to

win his seat.

A former agricultural officer for Teagasc in Ennistymon, Michael retired in 2009 but as he reflected on his 33 years in politics, he thanked his wife Moira, two daughters and extended family for their support and understanding for his absence down through the years plus the backing he received from Fianna Fáil and the many personnel that canvassed for him.

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

€47k toward Clare Sports Partneship A €47,000 allocation to the Clare Local Sports Partnership will benefit a wide range of sport and physical activities throughout the county, Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has said.

The money will come from the Dormant Accounts fund with the biggest single allocation of €20,000 going to the Clarisford Community Sports and Physical Activity Hub in Killaloe to enable local people engage in a more active and healthier lifestyle. €17,000 will go towards the development and delivery of specialised Sports Leadership training for young people in Clare. It will provide a stepping stone for learners into employment and also into further education or training.

A further €10,000 will go to the Sports Inclusion Disability Programme to reduce the barriers to sports participation for Clare people with a disability. The money will help purchase specialist equipment and minor infrastructure.

The investment will be administered

by Sport Ireland and will aim to engage with communities across the county, targeting people with disabilities, people who are educationally disadvantaged and from disadvantaged communities.

“In addition to local projects, there will also be significant funding for national projects such as coaching for young people and coaching for people with disabilities,” Deputy Carey said.

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NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Cllrs don't want another Athenry PÁRAIC McMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

LL of Clare’s five Oireachtas members have been urged to be vocal in their support of the planned €500m Ennis data centre.

Three members of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Pat Daly, Cllr Tom McNamara and Cllr James Breen put forward a motion at Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council where they asked the local authority “to ensure that our five Clare Oireachtas members give their full support in assisting the delivery of a Data Centre for Ennis.”

Describing the data centre as “an exciting initiative”, Cllr Daly said “It is over 20 years since we had a major employer come into Ennis. We should write to these five Oireachtas members and ask for their full support. We don’t want another Athenry”.

His Fianna Fáil colleague, Cllr Tom McNamara stressed, “It is important we have the backing of everyone to get this over the line”.

“We have to put our shoulder to the wheel to deliver this one, we have to get this project off the ground and our Oireachtas members should wholeheartedly support us with no ifs or buts,” former TD James Breen stated.

Fine Gael duo, Joe Cooney and Paul Murphy assured the Chamber that TDs Joe Carey and Pat Breen plus Senator Martin Conway had given their backing to the development. “It’s a no brainer and I’ve no doubt the Executive have a list of work to do. The Oireachtas members’ support will be there without a shadow of doubt”.

“We need to throw everything behind this. I remind everyone of 2006 when a greyhound stadium was muted for Clare and it never happened”, Cllr Cathal Crowe cautioned.

1,100 construction jobs would be created during the development of the Ennis Data Centre with a further 200 permanent data centre positions including that of engineers, 150 ancillary jobs would be generated around Data Centre Offices with 50 full-time maintenance jobs. It is envisaged that 600 induced jobs will follow in education, retail and leisure.

NATION OF HYPOCRITES FOLLOWING up from our front page story a fortnight ago on loneliness being an epidemic in Co Clare, readers from various parts of the county got in touch to share their thoughts.

A North Clare man rang The Clare Echo to outline his frustration. He thanked this newspaper for highlighting the issue. The retired individual said he is fortunate that he has family living close by but admitted friends of his that have since died were not so lucky. “People will turn up to funerals but they won’t visit older people when they’re alive, we’re a nation of hypocrites”.

His final message was one of encouragement as he urged the people of Clare and beyond to make a conscious effort to drop in to individuals they know that are living on their own.

If you want to contact The Clare Echo’s newsroom, email news@clareecho.ie or ring our office on 065 671 9021.

l KITTED OUT AND READY TO GO: Niall Ennis of Carrygerry Country House (pictured right) presenting the newly sponsored St Senan's underage rugby jersey

NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

210 insurance claims in Clare PÁRAIC McMAHON

S

news@clareecho.ie

OME 210 new insurance claims were made against Clare County Council from the beginning of 2016 until December 5, 2018 which has cost €3.6 million.

At Monday’s meeting of the local authority, a joint motion from councillors, Christy Curtin, Gerry Flynn, Mike McKee, Johnny Flynn, Ian Lynch and PJ Kelly sought an update on the claims made and for the executive to “implement a policy including appropriate protocols to reduce and ultimately eliminate the number of such claims and the resulting financial burden on the Councils annual budget”.

Footpath slipping and tripping (71), potholes (50) and roads (41) are the top three causes relating to claims. €1,716,493 was paid out in

2016, it decreased to €845,134 last year while so far in December the fee is €1,089,625.

Administrative Officer for the roads and transport department of the Council, John Corry stated, “We are not in a position to provide a breakdown on legal fees for each claim, as some payments are made as “all in” combining award and legal fees, however IPB estimates the average cost for legal fees equates to 40-42% of the overall cost of claims paid. All claims and legal costs are managed through IPB”. The Public Liability insurance premiums payable to IPB in respect of the respective years have exceeded €1m for the last three years.

Cllr Christy Curtin added, “In three years the premium for Clare Co Council increased by 30%, it deprives other sources of necessary funding, if that €1.5m was available we’d have 41 extra community schemes and there would be no cut to the GMA”.

Calls to add public water fountains

lKEEPING IT CLEAN:(above) Antoinette Barry John McGuane, winners of the Overall Green Areas for Parc na Coille with Cllr Mary Howard and (below) Teresa McGrath and Ellen Moloney, Overall Garden Winners, with Carmel Kirby at the Ennis Tidy Towns awards night which took place on Nov 29 Photos by Paul Corey

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CONSULTATIONS will take place Clare County Council and Irish Water to determine if water fountains can be installed across the county.

It comes following a notice of motion from Cllr Mary Howard at the December meeting of the local authority. She requested the putting in of fountains throughout Clare “considering the difficulty presented by single use plastics mostly water bottles”.

In October 2018, the European Parliament voted to ban certain single-use plastics.

Director of Physical Development, Carmel Kirby said that in support of the motion, they will “consult with Irish Water (IW) in the first instance to determine their policy on the matter and if there are any costs around connection fees or charges for water usage at public drinking water fountains. We will also consult with the Health Service Executive (HSE) in regard to any public health implications with respect to the inspection, cleaning and maintenance of any public drinking water fountains that may be installed”.

Howard explained she put forward the motion because of the increasing amount of plastic she sees during her work with the Ennis Tidy Towns group.

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THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Flynn wants 24hr at Ennis A&E restored PÁRAIC McMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

LONGSIDE sitting Fine Gael councillors, Paul Murphy and Mary Howard in Ennis, Johnny Flynn is anxious to retain his seat on Clare County Council where he hopes to see a 24-hour A&E reopened at Ennis General Hospital.

First elected to the Council in 2009, Flynn topped the poll in Ennis East and followed it up in 2014 with the second highest amount of first preference votes in the Ennis Municipal District. He explained how he manages to secure a strong initial base of support.

“You have to understand the needs of the local community and be seen to delivery locally on issues. I was previously very involved in a lot of voluntary groups ... It’s about delivering locally but also having a wider global perspective on the future and the opportunities for the town, the district and the citizens”.

Arising from these performances, he was asked to run for Fine Gael in the 2016 General Election but declined.

“At that stage I had four young teenagers, I have three in college now, one has finished and is working. With a young family I didn’t really consider it and also I was working on projects in the town and in the county area particularly two new schools, Cloughleigh and Ennis CBS so I was anxious not to pull away from them.”

During the current Council term, the former Chief Fire Officer has highlighted the difficulties of individuals like his children will have in the future when they want to own their home.

“We have a very serious housing crisis, we hear about it nationally but it’s very significant locally in Clare. I have been involved in a number of attempts to try and kickstart the local economy over the last 12 months. I’m a civil engineer by profession and I’ve been involved with a local group of building contractors and construction professionals in trying to see how the local construction sector can ramp up so that it can deliver housing in a more sustainable and cost effective way.”

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he maintained that he has been able to influence developments benefitting the entire county due to Fine Gael being in Government. “I would be very independently minded but it is fantastic to be able to influence nationally, political policy. For example about five or six years ago when I initiated through Ennis Town Council the development of the coach park and we got funding for that and the coach park was built, subsequently Dublin Coach through John O’Sullivan approached myself and a number of people in the Chamber of Commerce about getting a licence to bring the Dublin Coach bus into Ennis.”

At present, Clare’s county town has a population of 25,276, this according to Cllr Flynn is reason enough for the 24hour A&E to be reopened at Ennis General Hospital. “I believe we need a 24 hour A&E, any town over 10,000 pop-

l LOCAL CONCERNS: Cllr Johnny Flynn wants A&E reopened in Ennis

ulation the National Planning Framework states that it needs a 24 A&E and I think Ennis and Clare needs that.”

While Flynn has not contacted Minister for Health, Simon Harris like he did with Varadkar, he has informed the Taoiseach of its urgency.

“When Leo Varadkar was Minister for Health, I met with him when he visited here and mentioned that in my past as Chief Fire Officer that I was very concerned with the emergency services in Clare in health particularly the ambulance services and 24 hour A&E. Last year I had the opportunity of meeting the Taoiseach again on Clare issues when he visited the area and I spoke about this particular issue. There has been very significant investment in Limerick and some significant spend in Ennis which is welcome but I believe very strongly that we need a 24 hour A&E in Ennis and locally driven and provided services are crucial rather than having to go to regional centres”.

He expects a difficult campaign ahead of May’s local elections but the Law Graduate is unsure whether his long-standing commitment of taking no expenses, no junkets, no top-up payments has been a key reason for the electorate giving him their backing.

“Working as closely as I do to the County Council headquarters I don’t have a significant amount of travelling to do and I’m committed to working locally so I don’t tend to travel outside the county to attend conferences or events. I keep my travelling to as little as possible.

"From 2002 to 2004 before I got elected, I certainly was one member of the public who was disgusted with the corruption tribunals with the Mercs and perks, the excessive expenses and the result is the loss of trust in politicians.

"When I stood in 2004, I was anxious to demonstrate that there are very good people in local and national politics and to demonstrate that at the time I committed to the approach that any income I gained from politics I would pay tax on it like everybody else in the country and I’ve maintained that since and it’s not possible for everybody.

"Some people are travelling forty miles in for meetings to be part of committees, I wouldn’t expect other people to be in that position, fortunately I am and it’s a way of proving we can trust in politicians.”

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THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Patrick eyes up Congo ministerial job l POLITICAL: Dad of three Patrick has resided in Ennis for 13 years

PÁRAIC McMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ENNIS entrepreneur may soon be in a ministerial position in the Republic of Congo.

Patrick Kwara who is the owner of Unite Translation based in Roslevan will await the result of the upcoming Presidential election in the Democratic Republic of the Congo eagerly as it could transpire with him receiving a ministerial portfolio.

He has worked for close to a decade as an advisor to Vital Kamerhe who is the leader of the Union for the Congolese Nation (UNC) and is the party’s representative in Ireland. This time round, the UNC has teamed up with the Union for Democracy and Social Progress and have given their

backing to Felix Tshisekedi. If Felix wins, Kamerhe would become Prime Minister and Kwara hopes to become Minister for Rural Development.

In 2003, Patrick arrived in Ireland and lived in Limerick for two years and has resided in Clare since. At the beginning of this Council term, he was put forward as Ennis Chamber’s representative on the Rural Development Strategic Policy Committee. It is this role the dad of three maintains has prepared him for the possibility of a much higher position in his native country.

Of his relationship with Vital Kamerhe, Patrick said, “We know each other very well from before I came to Ireland from a young age that’s why he chose me to represent him in Ireland.

He’s a very good man with a very good heart and I believe if we win this election, we’ll

bring Congo to prosperity”.

Sitting President, Joseph Kabila will not contest the election on December 23 and according to Kwara “he destroyed the country”.

A native of Bukavu in eastern Congo, Kwara fled for Ireland as he feared for his life. “I was not interested in politics when I first arrived in Ireland, I came to Ireland because of human rights abuse, all the killings.

"Congo is a very rich country... we have all the gold, diamonds, the copal [used for electric car batteries]. This inequality with the country being so rich and the people so poor was making me really worried.

"From me being here I will bring some positive experience from Ireland. What I’ve learned from the SPC here in Clare, I’ve learned how to introduce policies for communities and I'll bring that to a national level

within the Congo. "[If] Vital Kamerhe is Prime Minister he can give me a portfolio where I can actually help a small village or town to develop themselves to be efficient with their resources to transform it to real money”.

He will return to the Congo in January, if the election pans out the way he intends, Patrick will expect a ministerial position. If not he plans to promote foreign investment in the country.

Leaving his wife, Bernie and three children, Seán (11), Solah (7) and Barack (1) is the most difficult sacrifice he is prepared to make. “Sometime in life you have to make big decisions, Bernie, she is supporting me with that decision. I have to go home to work and help people. If things settle, they can come if they want but for the first time I’ll go myself and see how things go”.

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NEWS 15

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

SANTA COMES TO ROSLEVAN

Christmas fire safety reminder

C l SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN: (main) Santa Claus is greeted by locals at Liddy's Eurospar in Roslevan and (left) children from the local Knockanean primary school sing Christmas carols on the big man's arrival

LARE County Fire & Rescue Service is urging members of the public to remain fire safety aware during the Christmas period.

The Fire Service says the main causes of fire during the festive season are candles left unprotected, fairy lights left on all night or improperly wired, Christmas trees falling over, open fires without fireguards, and decorations catching fire.

Clare Chief Fire Officer Adrian Kelly says people should familiarise themselves with the fire safety advice available on www.clarecoco.ie and www.fireireland.ie.

He added, “Christmas is a time for celebrating with families but it also is a time when extra fire hazards appear such as fairy lights, candles, open fires and decorations. I encourage householders across Clare to think about fire safety ahead of and during the Christmas period to avoid the risk of their Christmas being ruined.”

“Open fires are used for longer periods during the winter and Christmas period as people spend a lot more time at home. Electrical items and extension leads are also used more. Add in flammable decorations, candles and alcohol and it becomes apparent that the risks increase during the festive season,” stated Mr. Kelly.

Clare Conty Council also urges residents to install a smoke alarm and check it weekly.

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

A miracle of A lone windsurfer recounts his treacherous ordeal after washing up on the Kilkee coast STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

l RIDING THE WAVE: Lorenzo, who lives in Kerry, insists he will continue to windsurf despite his ordeal but with the aid of safety navagational tools such as GPS

WINDSURFER who was lost at sea for seven hours before he was rescued on the Clare coast says he put his life in God’s hands in order to survive his ordeal.

Lorenzo Cubeddu unwittingly drifted 40km from Ballybunnion around Loop Head to Kilkee, much of his journey being completed in complete darkness. He was reported missing in Ballybunion on Sunday, November 11 when he failed to return to shore after heading out to sea alone with his board, sparking a major search and rescue operation.

The Italian native, who has lived in Ireland for 22 years, described his death-defying journey to Bobby Kerr on Newstalk at the weekend. Lorenzo admitted there was a yellow weather warning in place however stated this was a good thing for windsurfers.

“I sailed not very far on the first run as you do to stay up wind but because the wind was very much dropping off I was just drifting sideways instead of going in in a straight

line. Coming back I was very close to the cliffs with the wind blowing from the sea across the shore. I went out again, did that for a while and kept drifting too close to the cliffs so with the last bit of wind I sailed as far from the cliff as I possibly could."

In a bid to remain safe by keeping distance from the cliffs, Lorenzo found himself drifting to sea, eventually being taken from Ballybunnion to Kilkee. During his journey, Lorenzo spotted search helicopters overhead who failed to spot him.

“I’ve been told that’s the trip I did. I lost track of time as soon as the night fell. I wasn’t really sure where I was and time stopped. After a while I could only see a few lights ahead of me and no lights in the back so I wasn’t really sure where I was. I thought I was still in the Estuary for a long time."

Lorenzo, who works for Supervalu, cut the sail from the board as it would have acted as an anchor and he feared being “thrown towards the cliff ”. Some 40km later, Lorenzo, freezing cold, found himself at a cliff face.

“That was really hard [climbing a cliff] because the waves were crashing. I didn’t really want to leave the board because that was my way of staying alive. Eventually I was thrown on the cliff by a wave."

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

God I lived

l GLAD TO BE ALIVE: Windsurfer Lorenzo Cubeddu and wife Amanda and his board

He then had to make his way through fields, even getting a couple of shocks from electric fences on his dart to safety.

“The first thought when I landed was, ‘I’m just going to find a little place, curl up and go to sleep’. The first stages of hypothermia were kicking in. But a voice in the back of my head was saying ‘stay awake, stay awake’.

I was very stiff but I had no choice."

Reflecting on his journey, Lorenzo says it was only the good grace of God he's alive.

“I have a great faith in God and it was

God’s miracle...I can’t explain it any other way because I could have kept going in the open ocean and never be found, I could have crashed on the rocks, and when I made it to land if I didn’t find any help I would have been lost probably.

Lorenzo, who has vowed to wear a GPS tracker in future when windsurfing, added, “It’s a miracle and it put everything into perspective. I had a few moments I even saw my own funeral."

NEWS 17

18 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

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Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

The very best of luck to these people...while this isn’t a long term solution at least they will have a roof over their heads for the next few weeks and will be warm and comfortable ...fingers crossed they will be provided with permanent accommodation in the very near future.

Sinéad Cusack

in reaction to our story about five families being accomodated at Cusack Lodge

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week KATIE WOLAHAN @katiewolahan

Heartbroken working in A+E the past week. Calling people in their 80s in from the waiting room at 9am, theyve been there since 3pm the day before, trying to nap on a plastic chair. Elderly people on trolleys, no pillows/blankets, in freezing corridors for days. This isnt humane?

TRENDING ON OUR WEBSITE: CLAREECHO.IE Five families to be accomodated at Cusack Lodge FIVE families will be accommodated in a homeless hub which will be based in Ennis.

Clare County Council has recently acquired Cusack Lodge on the Lahinch Rd for the provision of homeless transition accommodation. An operator has been appointed for the location, a design team is in place and are in the process of completing tender documentation. It will go to tender for refurbishment before Christmas. Speaking at Wednesday’s meeting of the Social Development SPC, Council official Liam Brett said they expect to appoint a contractor early next year with works to commence in February and a four week refurbishment period is estimated.

He outlined that an office for their Homeless Action Team (HAT) would be put in place on the ground floor of Áras Contae an Chláir with the reconfiguration of the office to include the addition of desks and two meeting rooms. He said they “are very close to appointing a tender, works are expected to start in January and possibly earlier. It will be a five week construction period and we will try to reduce it”.

Cllr Ann Norton praised the two developments and highlighted the importance of kitchen facilities

on site at the homeless hub. “It is important to be able to cook and STORY REACHED OVER clean, it gives the people digni4,000 PEOPLE ON OUR ty that when they move into hubs FACEBOOK PAGE they can look after themselves, it is something that is needed in Ennis”.

She felt having the HAT office within the same building would prevent confusion and hassle for individuals who would otherwise have to travel to another site.

Dermot Hayes referred to an email sent to all councillors by Mary O’Donoghue the LCDC Social Inclusion Representative which pointed out personnel being housed in B&Bs and hotels are unable to cook their dinners or wash their clothes.

Trudy Leyden told the meeting that Obair in Newmarket-on-Fergus are in the process of acquiring new kitchens and may be the solution to giving meals to the homeless in hotels and B&Bs, “they are more than happy to offer their services”.

Independent TD, Dr. Michael Harty said the announcement hasn’t come a moment too soon. “I understand that due to the size of the facility it will be used to house small family units. The families will have unreserved access to communal kitchen, dining and living facilities consistent with other hub facilities in l SHORT-TERM: Cusack Lodge on the Lahinch Rd, Ennis will accomodate homeless families operation in the country”.

NEWS 19

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

ADVERTORIAL

CHRISTMAS TIPPLE

NEW RULES FOR CLARE ROSES...

The Wine Buff gives expert tips on enjoying a glass this season

C

HRISTMAS is a time of good cheer and nothing marks the occasion better than a good bottle of wine. Whether it’s a soft, plummy red or a crisp, dry white, the wine which graces your table over the festive season should be something extra special to compliment the delicious food you have spent a month preparing.

With that in mind The Wine Buff, which has operated since 2001 and is the only specialist wine shop in Clare, give their top tips on enjoying a tipple in the festive season.

For most of us, Christmas dinner means turkey with all the trimmings. Turkey is relatively low fat and so, for red wine lovers, works best with wines with low to medium tannin but with good fruit to complement the traditional accompaniments such as cranberry and redcurrant sauces. One of our favourites here at the wine buff is the Apollonio Primitivo from Puglia in the South of Italy For white wine lovers, off-dry whites with good fruit and moderate acidity pair well with turkey.

Chardonnay based wines, for example Pouilly Fuisse or St Veran from the south of Burgundy in France are a good choice, as are fruit driven wines made with the Sauvignon Blanc grape from the Loire Valley.

With richer foods, such as duck or goose, choose red wines with higher acidity, for example Pinot Noir from Burgundy, Barbera from Piedmont in the North of Italy or richer white wines such as off -dry Riesling from Alsace in France.

If Roast Beef or Lamb is on the menu, look for medium to full bodied reds from Bordeaux or the Rhone Valley in France, or from the Douro Valley in Spain.

Whatever your menu choice, the most important thing is that you choose a wine that you enjoy.

If you do need any advice, call in for a chat and we will be

l EXPERTS: The Wine Buff in Ennis

delighted to help.

Merry Christmas from all of us here at the Wine Buff!

AT THE wine Buff we are passionate about sourcing extraordinary wines from producers who are dedicated to their craft. We run tutored wine tastings and regular wine appreciation courses. Wines from our exclusive wine list are the ideal choice for your weddings and all social gatherings, we offer a free consultation and wine matching service for all events.

You can email your gift requirements to mark@thewinebuff.com for a no obligation quotation. Each weekend we have a selection of wines to taste, if you are passing our shop please call in for a sample and a chat!

The Wine Buff, 37B Lower Market St, Ennis, Co. Clare, 065 684 2082

BIG changes to the Rose of Tralee see's the 2019 Clare Rose assured of a live Dome appearance on RTÉ but means Clare will not have a rose for 2020.

In a new departure, the Festival organisers have revamped the selection process by removing the regional qualification process and increasing the age limit. From 2019, each centre would select a Rose bi-annually, however Roses representing Kerry, Cork and Dublin will continue to be selected every year.

Pictured above is Kerry rose Celine O'Shea and Clara Burke, (Cooraclare), 2018 Clare Rose of Tralee at the Christmas markets opening in Frankfort, Germany.

Entertainment

TREACY’S CELEBRATE 50TH CHRISTMAS WITH CHRISTMAS MARKETS & FAMILY FUN

2

018 sees the West County Hotel celebrate its 50th Christmas. This weekend following a very successful debut in 2017 the Annual Outdoor Christmas Markets return. A special tented village with courtyard will display Arts and Crafts of up to 30 exhibitors on Saturday and Sunday (12pm -6pm) offering customers the perfect gift ideas for all the family. In addition to the stalls, the hotel will provide a range of free kids activities from 2-4pm including balloon modelling, magician, Disco, Meet & Greet with Elsa & Olaf and Bob the Builder, Bouncy Castles, and festive fare.

Clare fm will broadcast from the Markets on Saturday and feature a special interview with Santa and Mrs Claus who will be in residence for the 2018 Santaland at the Hotel.

Christmas Parties 2018

This weekend is also peak season for Christmas Parties and a night of comedy antics will be served up ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES style on Friday and Saturday night. Marlene & Boycie are hosting a Christmas Dinner, but will things go to plan with Del, as one of the Three Wise Men, Rodney as Arc Angel Gabriel and Trigger as an ELF! Uncle Albert is roaming around with Mistletoe in his cap? A “lovely jubbly” evening’s entertainment is sure to have you “Crying” with laughter.

Friday 21st and set to the unmistakable hits of Rod Stewart. “Do ya think your Sexy” hits are sure to have Maggie Mae” and “Baby Jane” showing off their “Hot Legs’ to some “Young Turks” all “Sailing” away to “The Rythm of Their Hearts “. Tickets €39 includes reception, dinner, show and DJ til late.

If you are looking for Christmas gift ideas?, We have perfect gifts ideas for vouchers or tickets to upcoming events, including Nathan Carter, Brendan Grace tickets, Tommy Tiernan, Mike Denver, Into the West Country Music Weekend, John Glenn & The Mainliner’s, Johnny McEvoy, Kenny & Dolly Together Again Show.. Music nightly in Boru’s Bar. For more details on dazzling Christmas line up, log on to www.treacyswestcounty.com.

22

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

ENTERTAINMENT

10TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT SPECIAL lViennese Christmas 10th anniversary concert will feature Vladimir’s most memorable performances

G

LÓR is delighted to present a superb festive concert with violin virtuoso Vladimir Jablokov, along with his musicians; the multi-talented Jablokov family and special tenor Sean Costello along with guest soprano.

During the last ten years, Vladimir Jablokov has established himself as one of the brightest young stars on the Irish classical scene, with concerts and recordings that show his love of Viennese music, contemporary pop/crossover and the great heritage of Russian and Eastern European classical composers.

Join Vladimir in glór this Friday 14th December as he adds a festive glow to some of the most beautiful classical melodies from the Romantic era, together with a flurry of seasonal evergreens to get you set for the most wonderful time of the year.

This Viennese Christmas 10th anniversary concert will feature Vladimir’s most memorable performances of the past decade, along with many new surprises.

Vladimir will be joined onstage by his parents, sister and brothers, along with their musicians, and a special guest tenor, Sean Costello and guest star soprano.

Vladimir grew up on in Bratislava, Slovakia, in a family of musicians where both parents and six siblings played music together from a very young age. Fourteen

years ago Vladimir moved to Ireland. Beginning with busking on Grafton Street, he quickly moved on to performing concerts and in 2008, he re-united the Jablokovs for the first Viennese Christmas concert. Since then, the Jablokovs meet every December in Ireland for the family gathering and have, to date performed for over 40,000 people nationally.

This year’s concert will be a special event where the Jablokovs share memories of playing and celebrating together. With music from the Strauss Family, Franz Lehar and Christmas songs and carols you know and love, this is the perfect start to the holiday celebrations.

Vladimir Jablokov started playing the violin aged five, making his stage debut at the tender age of ten. Coming from four generations of professional music makers, with a Russian maestro for a father and five musical siblings around him at home; Vladimir is steeped in the classical tradition.

Vladimir arrived in Ireland from Slovakia 10 years ago. Originally only planning to stay in Ireland for a few months; he soon found work and money hard to come by.

Having little English, he quickly decided to let his music do the talking and started busking on Grafton Street. Getting a taste for live performance, he formed the Slovak Festival Quartet in 2006 with some friends.

BUNRATTY LAUNCHS NEW ANNUAL PASS

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N ideal stocking filler this Christmas. Discover the gift of magic and adventure this Christmas with the all new Bunratty Annual Pass for only €95 for a family of two adults and four children to enjoy and explore Bunratty Castle and Folk Park all year long. Leave your technology at home to explore and discover the magic of yesteryear at Bunratty... as well as the world famous castle there is the Folk Park and 19th century street scape, retail, tasty treats, play grounds, animals, fairy trails and 20 acres for small people to explore as often as they like across the seasons. A great day out every time and yours to explore as often as you like with an annual Bunratty Pass.

If you wish to be more adventurous there are new cards also that grant ac-

cess to all Shannon Heritage attractions across the country including seasonal events and membership bonuses such as 20% off you duty free shopping every time you pass through Shannon airport.

But over Christmas why not plan a day at Bunratty and upgrade to the annual pass which mean you and your family can return as often as you wish. There is so much to see, one day is never enough....

Plus as the seasons change so does the Folk Park... so treat your family today click on Bunrattycastle.ie for all the details.

To celebrate the launch of the new Annual Pass and web site www.bunrattycastle. ie you can enter our competition in this week’s Clare Echo to win a family annual pass for Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

23

Jodie Finlay

JODIE'S HOUSE OF BEAUTY

SKINCARE FAVOURITES A

T THIS time of year many of us suffer with dry dehydrated skin between the heating and fires at home and at work and also the effects of alcohol on our skin during party season. I have put together a list of my must have skincare products to help combat these issues.

skin, or acne scarred skin. This product contains 5% glycolic acid, therefore, spf is a must during the day if this is part of your night time routine. It is normal to feel a slight tingling on your face after this product is applied. No pain no gain!

Price is €40 approx for a 100ml bottle.

DERMALOGICA SPECIAL CLEANSING GEL

This is a soap free foaming gel that works on all skin conditions. This wash does not leave your face feeling stripped as it does not disturb the skins natural moisture balance. I always love a foaming facewash to feel like my skin is getting a thorough clean and love that my skin is not left feeling tight afterwards like many other facewashes would.

Price is €50 approx for a 500ml bottle.

ALPHA H LIQUID GOLD

lSUFFERING SKIN: The time of year many of us suffer with dehydrated skin

this incredibly moisturising mask beats the effects of pollution stress and cold weather that make the skin appear dehydrated, tight, and uncomfortable. This mask is effective in restoring the skins radiance while leaving you feeling super fresh. My favourite thing about this mask is how subtle it looks on the skin. You could get away with leaving the house if needed without it being so obvious you have a face mask on your skin.

Price is €23 for a 200ml tube.

This is a wonder product for fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage, and pigmentation.

It restores, brightens and tones your skin.

This product is used at night. Overnight it works its magic by dissolving and sweeping away any dead skin cells that make our skin look dull. This product is ideal for mature or premature aging skin, sun damaged

ROSE WATER

WIN

the Gift of Magic & Adventure

for your family

Rose water is a liquid made from water and rose petals. I like to use rosewater as a toner. It can be put onto a cotton pad and applied to the face after cleansing to tone the face. Its cheap as chips and has many benefits too! Its soothing and refreshing, hydrating, removes excess oil from your face – a benefit for acne prone skin, and suits the most sensitive of skin types. It is available in most pharmacies. Best of all it is anti-bacterial and an anti-inflammatory meaning it helps to reduce redness on irritated skin (acne, eczema, dermatitis), and helps to heal wounds, scars, and cuts.

Price is €4 approx for a 200ml bottle.

Your chance to win a Bunratty Castle Annual Pass for 2 adults and 4 children to enjoy Bunratty Castle & Folk Park all year round.

For more information about our annual membership cards go to www.bunrattycastle.ie

For a chance to win a Bunratty Annual Pass answer the below question:

Name 1 of our two Irish Wolfhounds who live at Bunratty Folk Park?

MPN

Answers to: Bunratty Competition, c/o Clare Echo, O’Connell Square, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 KW22 Closing Date: 24/12/18

BIODERMA HYDRABIO MASK

Suitable for both adults and teens

DERMALOGICA DYNAMIC SKIN RECOVERY SPF 50

I recently invested in this moisturiser.

The main selling point for me was the spf 50. No matter what the weather is like our skin should be shielded by a good spf blocking both UVA and UVB rays protecting us against both sun and wind damage.

It melts and blends into the skin really well and best of all smells amazing. You’ll fell like you’ve just had a facial after using this product following a good skincare routine.

This product sets out to prevent aging.

Collagen production starts to slow down in the skin at the age of 25 years old so I would start with good skincare at or before 25 years old.

Price is €80 approx for a 50ml bottle.

24 COMMUNITY

Community WEST/NORTH CLARE

the event, is well worth checking out on youtube.

ALZHEIMER SOCIETY A date for your diary - Sunday the 17th of February is “ Burren Walk “ Day. More details will be confirmed later.

MCGANN’S DOOLIN BEARD AWAY 2018 Well done to the following who took part in a Fundraiser for the Stella Maris Day Centre; Lisdoonvarna - Martin Davis, Pat Byrne O’Connell, Alan Latham, Danny Clear, David Barry, Dermot Touhy, Frank O’Brien and P.J. Hyland.

By allowing their beards to grow for a number of weeks and allowing Noreen McCormick who at short notice did what was required on Saturday November 24th, the Day Centre was presented with a cheque for €2,037.

Music for the night was provided

by Handipak who travelled all the way from Limerick to entertain with guests musicians Kevin Griffin and Eddie Costello brought the house down with a mix of traditional and country and western.

These musicians gave of their time free of charge which has to be commended. A great night was had by all and well done to McGann’s for arranging and all who attended and had purchased and sponsored the fund raiser.

The funds raised will help to run the Day Centre to provide services to the elderly people of North Clare.

MIND YOURSELF WELLNESS There was a fantastic turn out at the Mind Yourself Wellness and Wellbeing night in the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point on Wed 5th. Sean O Malley (pictured below on stage accompanied by his dad Martin) launched his new song ‘The Evangelist’ and MC’d the event.

All proceeds from the sales and downloads of the track will go to the Elevate Foundation.

Speakers on the night were Mindfulness coach Monica Coady, Singer Songwriter Luka Bloom, Clare hurler Podge Collins and John Burke the Founder of the Elevate foundation who completely engaged the audience with their stories and presentations.

‘The Evangelist’ is available through all the usual online outlets and the songs thought provoking video, premiered at

EAST CLARE SVP EAST CLARE Change of date: St. Vincent de Paul - East Clare will now be holding their Christmas church gate collections on Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th December at all parish churches. Your donations allow us to continue supporting those most in need in our local

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

DOOLIN

l CHEQUE MATES: ( L-R ) Brendan Cusack from the Stella Maris Day Centre accepting the cheque from some of the brave people who took part in the Beard Away event at McGann’s; Alan Latham, Martin Davis and Pat Byrne O’Connell.

communities - thank you.

If you would be able to support us with either a regular, or one off payment direct to SVP East Clare, we would be grateful.

Account Name: East Clare SVP. Bank of Ireland. IBAN No: IE91 BOFI 9044 1363 2045 45. BIC No: BOFIIE2D. If you are in need of assistance we can be contacted locally and in confidence on 086 392 1492.

COORACLARE

Fergus AC U/8 gold medal winners at theClare Cross Country Championship Relays finals on Sunday The U/8 Girls had a superb run winning Gold with Caoimhe, Rowan, Jenna, Nicole & Aoibheann on the team.

COMMUNITY 25

THURSDAY,DEC 13 2018

Community

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

ENNIS AISLING & SEAN’S FUNDRAISER Local Musicians, Aisling & Sean Lyons will be playing music at The Chapel Lane Christmas Market in Ennis on December 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd. This is their third year fundraising for local charities at the Christmas market and this year their chosen charity is Mid West Simon Community.

The Simon Community provide support services to the homeless community around Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary. Donations can also made online at: www. midwestsimon.ie/donate

SHANNON

l CHRISTMAS CHEER: Local Musicians, Aisling & Sean Lyons will be playing music at The Chapel Lane Christmas

Market in Ennis to raise funds for the Simon Community

Have a green Xmas The people of Clare are being urged to play their part in preventing the amount of waste generated leading up to and during the Christmas period.

Clare County Council is reminding members of the public that items that cannot be reused, repaired or upcycled can be brought to of one of Clare’s five recycling facilities.

“I am delighted that the Council’s Environment Section is issuing important advice to the public on how they can minimise the impact of their Christmas on the environment,” said Mayor of Clare, Councillor Michael Begley.

He continued, “The people of Clare are very aware of the amount of waste particularly

Laura O’Donovan, Samar Nezamabad, and Trish Keane at a recent Baha’i Reflection meeting which took place in Shannon’s Oakwood Arms Hotel.

Members of Baha’i offer community building activities as a voluntary service to their local communities and neighbourhoods including children’s classes, junior youth empowerment groups and youth and adult courses.

LAHINCH

plastic waste that is being produced and the need for us all to reduce amount of waste we are generating in the first instance.

In particular, people should be vigilant and ensure that they only use the services of authorised waste collectors” Details regarding recycling locations, opening times and costs available from clarecoco.ie.

Congratulations to Kirsten Browne from School Road, Lahinch, who obtained a Bachelors of Business (Hons) in Marketing form LIT, pictured with her father, Declan, and mother Rosaleen Browne.

26 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

LIGHT OF ADVENT CANDLES

I

WAS at my children’s parents teachers meeting recently and as usual for me I was early so I had to wait in line with other parents. If you are like me as soon as I enter a waiting room or line up in a queue for some meeting or event, I start to feel uncomfortable. There is something about the not-knowing how long you will be there for. And then there’s the uncertainty of what the teacher in my case or whoever it is , it could be a doctors waiting room or a bank waiting area, your waiting to see will say when you finally get in. I try to rehearse what I will say. I get impatient and keep looking at the school clock on the wall. The silence is a deafening one; the cloud of stress and worry arising from a room or a line full of parents with loud sighs and various movements, and each dealing with their own worries and preoccupations, feeling restless and in-between. And then, when the call finally comes from the teacher to enter, I never feel prepared. It always feels like an unexpected and rude interruption, though it was what I was waiting for, all along.

The season of Advent can be a bit like that as we wait in anticipation for Christmas and the coming of the Christ child.

Occurring at the time of year when the earth moves towards the Winter Solstice, when days are gradually shortening and a chill in the air replaces a soft breeze, Advent conjures up a time of twilight, expectancy and waiting. Trees bravely shed their beauty and stand stark and naked in the freezing cold. A crisp frost covers the ground. A sense of the impending winter is in the air. We pause in silence and gather to remember and to prepare. Advent for many people is a time of waiting for the coming of the Lord, and many prayer services and liturgies provide us with beautiful experiences and reminders of the glory of the One who is to come.

Daily we can make an Advent examination. Are there any feelings of discrimination toward race, sex, or religion? Is there a lingering resentment, an unforgiven injury living in our hearts? Do we look down upon others of lesser social standing or educational achievement? Are we generous with the gifts that have been given to us, seeing ourselves as their stewards and not their owners? Are we reverent of oth-

ers, their ideas and needs, and of creation?

These and other questions become Advent lights by which we may search the deep, dark corners of our hearts. We wait for the coming of the Lord. We are encouraged to ‘Awake and keep watch!’ However we also need to awaken to the fact that the Lord is waiting for us. There is a sense in which we do not need to wait for God. God is always present in a myriad of ways, around us, among us, between us, within us. Do we not need to awaken to the wonder and mystery of this? For those who are awake and for those who see as Gerard Manley Hopkins use to say, can see ‘The earth is

charged with the grandeur of God’.

Four Burning Candles of Advent that bring Hope

In a world where on some days it seems like there is nothing but hate and destruction the story of the four candles will hopefully provide some inspiration that faith, love, peace will triumph. A world without Hope is truly a world that I don’t think many people would want to live in.

If you are going through dark days then I can only wish that you find the Hope required to provide the light you need to get through those dark days. “In a room there were four candles burning. The ambiance was so soft you could hear them

talking. The first one said, “I am PEACE, however nobody can keep me lit. I believe I will go out.” It’s flame rapidly diminishes and goes out completely. The second one says, “I am FAITH. Most of all I am no longer indispensable, so it does not make any sense that I stay lit any longer.” When it finished talking a breeze softly blew on it putting it out. Sadly, the third candle spoke in its turn. “I am LOVE. I have not gotten the strength to stay lit. People put me aside and don’t understand my importance. They even forget to love those who are nearest to them.” And waiting no

longer it goes out. Suddenly a child entered the room and saw three candles not burning. “Why are you not burning you are supposed to stay lit till the end.” Saying this the child began to cry. Then the fourth candle said, “Don’t be afraid, while I am still burning we can re-light the other candles, I am HOPE.” With shining eyes, the child took the candle of Hope and lit the other candles. I always pray that the flame of Hope would never go out from our life’s so that each of us can maintain HOPE, FAITH, PEACE and LOVE.” Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, please be mindful of the people and children in

need around you especially our elderly and those who find themselves through in most cases no fault of their own and genuinely and lovingly try to help out as much as possible with your time and with some of your ‘good things’ if you can afford too. Advent is the perfect time to clear and prepare the Way. Advent is a winter training camp for those who desire peace. By reflection and prayer, by reading and meditation, we can make our hearts a place where a blessing of peace would desire to abide and where the birth of the Prince of Peace might take place. Let’s try to make our midland counties places of love, peace and care for all our people especially our children and for those who might feel marginalized and alone and afraid. Let’s always make our midland counties places of Hope and a place were a Prince of Peace maybe born....now that is something we can be proud to do!!!

A prayer I say during Advent time for everyone in need of a prayer of Hope especially for our loved ones that are sick, unwell, homeless, abandoned and in need of our actions of love and caring goes as follows - “Emmanuel, Our world waits in darkness longing for Your light. In the midst of darkness, en-kindle our hope. As we long for lasting peace in the midst of war, Be with us. As we long for families to be reunited, Be with us. As we long for homeless and abandoned people in our communities to be cared for, Be with us.

As we long for enemies to be reconciled, Be with us. As we long for cures and healing, Be with us. As we long for decent jobs and decent homes and shelter and economic security, Be with us. As we long for love and community, Be with us. Fulfill the deepest longings of your people and Dispel the darkness in our hearts and in our world. Let your Word ignite the hope the world needs to bring to life your love and justice. May this Advent season be a time for bringing hope, transformation and fulfillment into the real living of our lives. Amen.”

COLUMNISTS 27

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

EDITOR’S OPINION

Eoin Neylon

Crucial Kilrush

Increase in councillor pay the logical move

A

REPORT from the Society of Chartered Surveyors was released this week with the aim of giving recommendations on how small regional towns can better function and what steps local and national government can take to establish this.

And while the report (pg2) provides useful and interesting information, we can’t take it at face value. Any report that takes on a number of regions as case studies will always miss the idiosyncrasies exclusive to each particular area. Reading this report would leave you under the impression that Kilrush is one of the most vibrant small towns in the country, while Sixmilebridge where 91 per cent of residents leave the village for work - was deemed an unhealthy settlement. According to the report, when a settlement has greater numbers leaving for work it can lack the vibrancy necessary to retain people. With all due respect to the report, and Kilrush, this is not the case.

In Co Clare, the ‘belt’ of settlements on the M18 are in fairly safe hands with easy access to employment hubs like Limerick, Shannon, Ennis and Galway while maintaining country

living in tight-knit communities.

Newmarket on Fergus was evidence of this, one of the top 10 improving towns when it comes to employment.

The report states that Kilrush had a low percentage of people leaving the town for work, however it failed to mention that of Clare’s three unemployment blackspots, one is Kilrush and another is its neighbouring Kilkee.

The report stated that Clare’s population has risen by 26 per cent. However again, this ignores the realities of West Clare. Even going back to even the boom years, of the five Clare towns in the population range 1,500-10,000, only Kilrush displayed a decrease.

Kilrush should be the heart and key to the future of West Clare’s viability as a place to live. With the future of Moneypoint uncertain, these are very unsettling times for people living in West Clare. Steps must be taken by our local politicians to encourage new industry to the area.

Once upon a time the islands along the west coast of Clare and the Shannon Estuary had a human population until island living became unviable. It is now crucial that Kilrush does not become an abandoned island.

M

ORE conventions, more names, more expected results. But now and again, there are a few surprises. This week saw several people caught unawares for the retirement of Cllr.

Michael Hillery. A dedicated public servant for going on 33 years, few would argue that he has served the people well throughout his time on Clare County Council. With only Richard Nagle nominated in the Ennistymon area for Fianna Fáil, this will leave party HQ in the search for another candidate to add to the ticket in North-West Clare. Mount Street, as FF HQ is often referred to given its address in Dublin, will also be looking to add to the ticket in Shannon also where sitting Cllrs Cathal Crowe and Pat ‘Mace’ McMahon were selected unopposed. It remains to be seen if they will add one or two candidates to the field in Ennis after Sunday’s selection convention endorsed Cllrs Clare Colleran-Molloy and Pat Daly to represent them. With just the Kilrush area convention to come, the Fianna Fáil members in Clare have almost had their say.

Hillery’s retirement was eluded to a few weeks ago as one of the two retirements in the current West Clare constituency we were likely to see ahead of next May’s poll.

For a large part of Michael’s time serving the people of Clare, he did so without pay.

The role of the humble Councillor has definitely changed over that time, no more so that when the ‘Hogan reforms’ came into effect five years ago. Then FG Minister Phil Hogan’s reforms were

‘‘

more akin to taking a slash hook to local government in Ireland, slashing the number of Councillors by 60% in one felled swoop. The reform also led to such ridiculous situations as Councillors representing areas such as the West Clare LEA, itself geographically larger than many Dáil constituencies.

Similarly, the same Councillor was to represent the people of Clonlara on the outskirts of Limerick city as did the parish of New Quay on Galway Bay. Arguably, the only issue these people had in common was flooding over those five years.

Hogan’s “reforms” were the most drastic we’d seen the ending of the dual mandate in 1992 where Oireachtas members were no longer permitted to hold office locally. This finally led to Councillors getting paid a wage for the hours upon hours of work they carry. That wage nowadays stands at €16,645 per annum before tax. The expenses are just that; to cover the costs of doing the job and these typically fall in the €7,000 to €10,000 per year range.

For what is now a very stressful, basically fulltime, job, the rate of pay is not very attractive. This is perhaps why many young people shun the idea of running for local government, seeing as many would not be able to afford to live on roughly €25,000, less tax a year. However, politics should not only be for the already rich. We need politicians to represent a wide variety of people from all walks of life.

That’s the whole idea behind representative democracy.

The number of people leaving

The number of people leaving politics, some very early, is an indication that shomething in wrong

‘‘

Stuart Holly

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

politics, some very early, is an indication that something is wrong and it’s something we should fix.

An effect of Hogan’s cuts means that one councillor now represents an average of 5,000 people. This is one of the highest ratios in Europe.

With the advent of mobile communication and social media, local representatives have never had as much to do for so many people while being 24/7 contactable.

Speaking to Councillors from around the country many describe the stress levels as being something they were not prepared for. I know of a couple of people who have quit the role for that reason over the past four and a half years of this council term. Increasing the pay so that it becomes a full-time job would seem the only fair thing to do to match the workload that goes with it. Some may baulk at the suggestion and point to other people who work hard in the public service who deserve a pay rise. I completely agree. We must though resist the “it’s us or them” mentality that has manifested in Irish society over the past number of years. Giving people incremental pay increases to match the rising cost of living is very achievable but requires the political will from Central Government to do it. Sadly, I don’t believe we have seen that political will over the past number of years of the so called ‘recovery’.

One potential downside of making the role full-time, it may make it harder for new blood to win elections by unseating an incumbent.

If a sitting Councillor has nothing to distract them from their role, it may be hard for newcomers to match their intensity of canvassing during election time. The old saying goes “if it aint broken, don’t fix it”. Surely the converse of that statement is also true. One thing is definitely for sure is that our system of local government is badly broken. We need innovative solutions to fix it, and the sooner the better.

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FOOD & DRINK

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

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How to cook 100% vegan

Ardnacrusha's Jacques Brennan tells Stuart Holly about his new cookbook along with rules and tools for cooking vegan.

“That was very intentional. I specifically did not pick up a cookbook and look at them and say, will I make one like this. This is not like a cookbook you’d see; the intention is ‘how do I make it the best to help people'. So let’s say, the rules, they’re a bit of fun but they’re serious. One says ‘use your hands’. Nobody uses their hands. Wash your hands but don’t be afraid to get a bit dirty."

Jacques adds that this is a book which should not only appeal to vegans, with universal recipes like stew, chile or pizza, but specifically younger people learning to cook.

He hopes to follow up the book with another cookbook for restaurants, inspired by his frustration with vegetarian and vegan offerings in eateries.

The back page of Hungry Soul

STUART HOLLY

H

editor@clareecho.ie

UNGRY Soul, a book that tells you how to cook 100% vegan, has been a long time in the making. Jacques Brennan first put pen to paper when his brother in law asked for some quality meal ideas. What began as a booklet of handwritten recipes has transpired 15 years later into a detailed 209-page book on vegan cooking.

A Canadian native, Jacques Brennan settled in Ardnacrusha and has been in Ireland for 22 years, raising a young family in south-east Clare. With his children moving on to third-level education, Jacques took it as a sign to begin a new chapter in his own life.

"I’m actually a forester and I’ve been trading in wood all over Ireland for about 20 years," Jacques tells The Clare Echo. "Last year I was working mainly in the middle east and I chose to stop and concentrate on writing.

"My children were getting to that age [school-leaving] so I wanted to put together a recipe book for them – they were often asking me ‘how do I make this and how do I make that’ so that’s why I made it."

Jacques admits he was wellplaced to provide a book on the subject as an author, cook and vegan.

“I’ve been writing since I was young but more seriously now and I’ve been cooking all my life. Vegan came later because I’m a vegetarian since birth but I became vegan five or six years ago."

With recipes ranging from Tomato Bruschetta to Red Lentil Dhal, and from preparing pizza to making filling Burritos, Jacques shares straightforward meals to satisfy all appetites. Jacques, however, admits he wasn't planning on promoting Hungry Soul as a veg- a n book until the publishers advised him to sate the appetite of the

l SOUL CREW: Jacques at launch of Hungry Soul at Shannon Rowing Club with (L-R) daughter Anne Marie, wife Carmel, daughter Emma and son Colm (children not in photo Isabelle & Thomas)

Photo by Keith Wiseman

growing market of people interested in vegan living.

“It is [becoming more popular]. One of my children who is in college in UL, they happened to mention ‘my father’s making a vegan cookbook’ and their friends were saying ‘oh I want one’ because they’re interested but they don’t have the information.

There’s a lot of misinformation about veganism as well because you’re g o i n g against an industry norm in the food industry so you get all kinds of stuff."

By 'all kinds of stuff ', Jacques is alluding to the idea that a vegan

diet will leave you short-changed when it comes to certain nutrients, vitamins and particularly protiens.

However he insists this is a massive misconception. With the exception of B12 which can be supplemented in tablet form, all that's needed to maintin a healthy diet through veganism is variety.

“On the radio yesterday there was a nutritionist saying how difficult it is to be a vegan and how it’s easier to get your protein from meat … to become vegan is not difficult. I’ve never cooked meat in my life.

“For vegan cooking, you just have to have variety – that is the key thing. All the amino acids, all the protein are in vegetable-based foods.

"Many athletes now are becoming vegan, they understand the power of it. In terms of good health, it’s much better to be vegan - if you eat a balanced diet. That balanced diet goes for non-vegans as well. You need to have your greens and vegetables and whatever you choose as your protein source. Often there’s so much emphises on protein, when there’s protein in everything. You get protein in broccoli, in rice. The better

the quality [of food], you don’t really need to worry. You just need a variety."

Jacques continues, “A friend of mine became vegan and she said ‘I can’t lose weight’ and I said ‘what do you eat’. She said ‘a lot of bread and pasta’. I said, ‘that’s okay but you shouldn’t eat a lot of it, you should eat rice, potatoes, rice, all your greens, tomatoes, everything’.

So if you eat a variety of foods, you’ll be very healthy, vegan or not. For me there’s no real difference in the two. That’s why the book is there, you have a variety of dishes."

The 209-page book - while not a traditional cookbook - is very detailed and contains dozens of beautiful illustrations, all of which were done by Jacques himself.

Hungry Soul also contains methods of cooking essential ingredients, which, once mastered, will enable those cooking to make an unlimited combination of dishes and meals.

This is not a traditional cookbook, something that becomes apparent on the contents page, where you are referenced to not just recipes but also meal ideas for groups, brunch, or cooking for a first date,

‘‘

Many athletes now are becoming vegan, they understand the power of it. In terms of good health, it’s much better to be vegan.

‘‘

HUNGRY SOUL: HOW TO COOK 100% VEGAN

includes a message from the author inviting readers to contact him personally if they have any questions about vegan cooking or the positive effects of a plant-based diet. And Jacques adds, “It’s not just the selling of the book. Really, it’s helping young people, and if people are looking forward to cooking differently and I can help, why not.” n Hungry Soul: How to Cook 100% Vegan is available online at dubraybooks.is or locally online through O’Mahonys Bookshop.

COLUMNISTS 29

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018 turns out this was an 1860s style Holy Pinnacle.

Despite the annual rainfall in Ireland the Burren in particular can be an exceptionally dry place due to its underground river system, therefore, in those days it was not unusual to experience drought.

Due to the closeness of the water to the bedrock, little watering holes as they were called often appeared over ground. These were pools of fresh water which supplied people of Ballyvaughan and surrounding areas with drinking water. People in those times were very religious and used to congregate perhaps once a week or once a month at the mouth of this well to give thanks to the Lord for this source of living water. It were not deceiving me as it was was also believed that this holy a little gothic style house with a well had healing powers as the corbelled stone roof, complete water was used to treat corns and with stone coping and corner chilblains, therefore local people pinnacles (little spires), and an used to leave offerings in the form arched doorway. of money or rags hung on the Just as I was about to enter, I spotted a local farmer on a bicycle branches of hawthorn bushes. It who happened to be doing a bit of was believed that if you soaked a piece of cloth in the holy water hearding and was only too eager and hung it from the branch, as to enlighten me as regards its the cloth rotted the disease left existence; the people of Ballythe body. vaughan are very friendly. As it He (Jack the cycling farmer) then went on to tell me that as cattle used to travel the roads a lot those days to fairs in Ballyvaughan, it was necessary to protect this well from contamination and also to preserve it, hence the chapel like image that you see today. It is unclear if there was any specific saint connected to this well however, it is locally called Tobercornan which could

Miriam O’Donohoe Join Miriam on her history tours to hidden locations of Clare

Tobercornan: the holy well with healing powers

There is nothing I love more than to sit into my car and head off for a day sightseeing around Clare. I find it totally relaxing and meditative.

This week was no exception as I found myself in the beautiful picturesque little village of Ballyvaughan, in the heart of the Burren, a fishing village so I’m told. However, as fishing is not

my thing I headed to the Wild Atlantic Lodge and had breakfast.

Following this, I decided to get on the R477 which took me down the coast road towards Fanore.

Once you pass the village this road gets very narrow so there is not much scope for sight-seeing, but then at the corner of my eye, to the left of the road I spotted what looked like a miniature church. I decided to pull in and have a look, sure enough my eyes

‘‘

PS: As with all historical sites, take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints.

It was also believed that this holy well had healing powers as the water was used to treat corns and chilblains, therefore local people used to leave offerings in the form of money or rags hung on the branches of hawthorn bushes

‘‘

H

I ALL,

have been a misprint at the time, on the other hand it could very well have been connected to Saint Cronan who had a strong link with the neighbouring village of Carron in the 12th century.

Never the less items of worship both inside and outside the well clearly indicate that people gave offering and still do today but not to the same extent. Jack also told me that back then a church was never founded except near a well, as pure fresh water was required for local baptisms and sacrifices, as well as every day uses of the holy men and women whose lives were dedicated to the service of God (namely priests and nuns).

Also, in the penal times when Catholics were prohibited to congregate for Mass in churches, alters were often erected parallel to the well where Mass was said there in secret, and if a priest could not be located then a lay person, usually a respected person of the community would say it.

Before leaving to go our separate ways, Jack informed me that up the road in Gleninagh stood the ruins of an ancient little church, castle and well, where local people still worship to this day.

So now I’m off to check these out for myself. Thank you for keeping me company along the way and I hope you’ll join me on my next rip. Bye for now,

30 FOCUS ON GORT

Community Centre plans extension GORT Community Centre has been granted permission for an extension and renovation that will provide more space for the local community.

Permission has been granted for the community centre in the townland of Lavally to build an extension to the building.

Renovations will also be done to the existing centre to provide more floor space and windows.

The gross floor space of the proposed works is 344sqm The Committee of the community centre submitted the planning application to Galway County Council back in October.

The county council gave permission for the developement to go ahead with three conditions attached.

Just one extra person signs on in Gort

JUST one extra person signed on the live register last month in Gort while unemployment in Galway was slightly down last month according to the latest figures from the Central Statistics Office.

While overall unemployment is decreasing in Galway, some areas experienced a slight jump in November.

Gort and Loughrea saw just one extra person sign on the Live Register in each respective area last month.

There are now 767 people out of work in Gort and just over 11 hundred out of work in Loughrea.

The total number of people out of work in the city and county is just over 10 thousand 400 a drop of 74 on October’s figure.

The biggest drop in unemployment figures last month was in the city, where 140 people came off

the Live Register.

Ballinasloe also saw a very slight drop in its unemployment figure in November. Three people came off the Live Register leaving its unemployment figure at just under 2,000.

Despite drops in the city and Ballinasloe, all other areas of Galway saw slight increases in unemployment figures last month.

The biggest increase was in Clifden where an extra 54 people signed on.

There are now 728 people out of work in Clifden.

13 more people joined the Live Register in the Tuam area in November, bringing its jobless figure to just over 15 hundred.

Overall there are 10 thousand 484 people out of work in Galway, a drop of 15 per cent on the unemployment figure for November last year.

CITY planners are due to make a decision in February on a 30 million euro plan to redevelop Connacht Rugby sportsground.

The planning application comes after a detailed design process and extensive public consultation.

The project would provide a stadium that can accommodate 12 thousand spectators and a new high performance training centre. The plan would see the demolition and removal of the existing Clan Terrace, Connacht Rugby offices, maintenance buildings and training pitches. The new building would include a new North Stand with terracing and seated areas over four levels.

FOCUS ON GORT 31

Day of culture

G

ORT Community School organised an event to celebrate the diverse range of cultures that are present in the school.

Teachers and students coordinated the sourcing and the cooking of a huge variety of delicious dishes that represented the students,

l BEST IN MARKET: (left, back row; Principal Gort Community School, Mr Brian Crossan with Sean (Zimbabwe), Sarah (Ethiopia), Hurshee (Mauritius) and Deirdre (China).

Front Row; Karla (France) and Oscar (Holland) celebrate Culture Day and (right) Ronan and Elena with food from Ukraine and Russia

from the many corners of the world.

There was food from Pakistan, India, Morocco, Mauritius, Brazil, Romania, Ecuador, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa, China, and Ethiopia...not to mention the many more familiar European foods from Greece, the Balkan countries, Eastern Europe as well as our

closer European neighbours.

1st year students had the pleasure of sampling and were very excited to have their taste buds tickled.

They then took part in a quiz based on posters of each country hanging in the Assembly area.

A fun educational morning was had by all.

32 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

BUSINESS

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Clare staff honoured at Centra awards

T

l BUSY: Crowds scramble for Clare tickets at Ryan’s Centra earlier this year

he fifth annual Pride of Centra Awards ceremony took place in the Cliff at Lyons in Co. Kildare recently, where a selection of outstanding Centra employees were honoured for their passion and commitment shown in the workplace this year.

There were three representatives from Clare who were shortlisted for the awards: Mary Holland, Centra Ennis; Jillian

Whelton, Centra Sixmilebridge; and Deirdre Commons, Centra Clarecastle, all of whom were in the Employee Award category.

Commenting on the Pride of Centra Awards, Luke Hanlon, Human Resources Director of Centra, said; “These awards were established to recognise and celebrate the incredible individuals who consistently live by the Centra brand values, each and every day. Centra stores operate in the heart of communities across the

country and these awards not only provide the opportunity to showcase the amazing work that Centra staff do every day within the store, but also highlight the remarkable and selfless work they do within their local communities.

“Customers tell us time and time again that the number one driver of shoppers to Centra is our staff and we are proud and grateful for their dedication, commitment and passion for our

brand.”

The 52 finalists represented 19 counties; Dublin, Cork, Sligo, Waterford, Wexford, Donegal, Galway, Clare, Cavan, Leitrim, Limerick, Mayo, Laois, Tipperary, Kildare, Kilkenny, Kerry, Carlow and Offaly. All shortlisted candidates were recognised for their ongoing commitment to their work with community initiatives, charity organisations, customer service and engaging activities in-store.

Dromoland joins Novas D l HATS OFF TO THEM: Willie and Penny Tuohy from Killaloe shop for new hats at the opening of the new Aldi store in Killaloe; (below) members of staff at the new store celebrate on opening day. A total of 20 new jobs have been created at the new ‘project fresh’ store in Killaloe Photos by Natasha Barton

ROMOLAND Castle is delighted to announce their second charity initiative with new charity partner, Novas. This follows the food collection for World Hunger Day on 16th October, where 40 bags of food were collected for the well-deserving charity.

The latest initiative is collecting for the Novas Toy Appeal. Dromoland Castle is delighted to have surpassed the €900 target, raising €1,000 for those in need.

Novas is a voluntary organisation and Approved Housing Body working with families and single adults who are disadvantaged and socially excluded; primarily those

who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. They provide a range of services and accommodation for marginalised households throughout Ireland.

The team at Dromoland Castle will support Novas by taking part in their annual sleep-out in Limerick on Friday, 21st December from 7pm-7am. All proceeds raised will go to Novas.

Dromoland Castle will continue to contribute to this wonderful charity into the New Year and will support Novas in the opening of a new Family Hub in County Clare.

For more information, visit www. dromoland.ie or www.novas.ie

l TOP CLASS: IMembers of the Dromoland Castle team with a cheque for €1,000, proceeds of which will go to the Novas Toy Appeal

BUSINESS 33

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

lCLARE’S FINEST: (Pictured L-R) Claire Desbonnet, Roche Clarecastle,Linda Earlie, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office and Norma O’Mullane, Roche Clarecastle

Photo by Arthur Ellis

lALL SMILES: Sandra Murphy, of MURALA Ennis and Aoife Lenihan, TTM Healthcare at the event at Hotel Woodstock Photo by Arthur Ellis

WOMEN TALK BUSINESS AT CLARE LEO EVENT

T

HE important role of online marketing in growing a business was the theme of the final Clare Women in Business event of 2018 which took place at Hotel Woodstock, Ennis on Tuesday, December 4.

Organised by Local Enterprise Office Clare, the guest speaker for the event was Aoife Lenihan, who is responsible for Content and Community Experience as part of the Brand Team at TTM Group. The talk, entitled “Creating and Telling Your Story”, encouraged businesses to update their marketing strategies for the 2019, paying attention to the importance of the content in digital age. lTHE FIRE IS SO DELIGHTFUL: Teresa Rosengrave, TTM Healthcare, Patricia Farrell, Wild Irish Chocolates and Lisa Duncan, Wordly Photo by Arthur Ellis

lCATCHING UP: Pictured L-R Sinead Dixon Slattery, Local Enterprise Office Clare, Aoife Lenihan, TTM Healthcare and Linda Earlie, Senior Enterprise Development Officer, Local Enterprise Office Clare Photo by Arthur Ellis

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

BUSINESS

35

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Thomas’ Brexit concern for Shannon PÁRAIC McMAHON

I

paraic@clareecho.ie

N THE MIDST of Brexit and Britain’s expected departure from the European Union, Shannon Airport will be without connectivity to the continent which has “concerned” airport management.

Matthew Thomas, CEO of Shannon Group plc briefed elected officials of Clare County Council on Monday where he presented an update on their activity so far in 2018. “Since we were separated from DAA in 2012, Shannon has been by far the fastest growing airport outside of Dublin, sixth consecutive year of increase in passenger numbers”. He stated Shannon has recorded a growth of 33 percent since 2012 in comparison to 60 percent at Dublin, 11 percent at Knock and just 2 percent at Cork.

“One of the things I love in Shannon is that we are rooted in the community that we serve. We want our customers and the Mid West to be proud of our airport. We’re in the middle of a spike in our investment cycle. We don’t receive any grants or taxpayers money but we’re moving in the right di-

rection,” the South African native said.

“This is the first time I’ve worked in the public sector, before that it was always the private sector and the opportunity to make a difference just isn’t the same. We have some very special people working in the Shannon Group”. To describe the company’s performance, he used the analogy of “a car moving through the gears”.

Of their negotiations with airlines to establish routes from Shannon, Mr Thomas outlined some of the feedback they have received and stated Shannon Group is working closely with Clare County Council on the development of a tourism strategy. “The Wild Atlantic Way has been a phenomenal success and we need to ensure it doesn’t plateau, we need to enhance the tourism experience and need to identify Shannon as the Wild Atlantic Way airport. We spend too much time speaking with airlines, we’re the biggest salesmen for how beautiful the region is and their response is the tourism is grand but it’s not compelling. We need to invest in a very smart way, we need top flight attractions in the West of Ireland”.

The forty five year old revealed he was “concerned” by Brexit and confirmed their

priority is to establish another European hub for Shannon Airport which he said was “critical”. “Our connectivity is going to be outside the EU in early 2019 and it’s just not right that one half of a country doesn’t have connectivity to a European hub”. He

continued, “We are a young company in many ways and have been independent for four years now but we need Government support. The more we invest in our heritage attractions, the more tourists that will come to our region”.

CLARE LEO CLIENTS SET FOR SHOWCASE THREE Local Enterprise Office Clare clients will be given the opportunity to promote their business to a global audience in the ‘Local Enterprise Showcase’ at Showcase 2019, Dublin, in January.

The trade event gives small designers and craftspeople the unique opportunity to meet over 5,000 buyers from all over the world opening new doors for them to global markets. Over 80 Local Enterprise Office clients will exhibit their products at the event and this will include Local Enterprise Clare clients: Sallyann’s Handmade Bags – design and manufacture of bespoke handbags made from showerproof outer fabrics and recycled materials www.sallyannsbags.ie Galanta Jewellery – Beadwork jewellery with a celtic theme www.galantajewellery. com Airmid Natural Irish Skincare – skincare products and soaps produced in the Burren using homegrown herbs and pure essential oils www.airmidsoap.com The event hosts 5,000 buyers from over 20 countries. Taking place from the 20th – 23rd January, Showcase is presented by the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland and is supported by Enterprise Ireland and country’s network of Local Enterprise Offices.

Some of those who started their journey at Local Enterprise Showcase include the likes of fashion designers Jennifer Rothwell and Emma Manley, jewellery designer Blaithín Ennis and artisan homeware slate brand, Slated.

Bláth na hInse marks IBAL win l BLOOMING SUCCESS: IBAL’s Conor Horgan with Mayor Begley, Clare Co Co CEO Pat Dowling, Ennis Mayor Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, along with Conor and Paddy Murray Photo by Eamon Ward

CLLR Michael Begley, Mayor of Clare unveiled a sculpture in Ennis in recognition of the town’s achievement in topping the IBAL Anti-Litter League last year. Located in Abbey St car park, the striking public work called Bláth na hÍnse was designed and created by Conor and Paddy Murray of Kilkee Forge.

The centre point of the artwork is a giant Yellow Iris, a wildflower which grows along the River Fergus which also hints at the blooming of Ennis from a business, community and cultural aspect. The stem is constructed from mild steel and reaches 3.25m in height, with six petals in stainless steel and mirror polished to create the coloured effect. Three steel benches surround the Iris, which is illuminated by warm LED lights and ‘grows’ out of a flowerbed filled with wildflowers.

Mayor Begley commented, “Being named Ireland’s Cleanest Town to Ennis provided national recognition to the town’s residents, visitors, the local authority, businesses and voluntary groups who have a longstanding reputation for working together to keep the streets and public spaces free of litter.

This sculpture is a lasting testament to this achievement and is a reminder of the immense pride of place that exists in communities right across Clare.”

Conor Horgan of Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL) commented: “From IBAL’s perspective, this wonderful sculpture has a twofold purpose. On the one hand it is a fitting celebration of the town’s achievement in winning our programme last year, and one which will enhance the local environment.

In addition, and just as importantly, it stands as a permanent reminder and motivation to future generations in Ennis to maintain the high standards which the community attained in 2017.”

“With over 80 per cent of towns nationwide now being deemed ‘clean’ in the IBAL Anti-Litter League, it takes an exceptional effort to emerge as the top town. That can only be achieved when the local authority, businesses and residents come together in a concerted effort. This has clearly happened in Ennis.”

Set up in 1996, Irish Business Against Litter is an alliance of companies sharing a belief that continued economic prosperity is contingent on a clean, litter-free environment.

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

CITROEN’S UPDATED CACTUS MAXES OUT THE COMFORT ROAD TEST: CITROEN C4 CACTUS

W

NEW SUSPENSION AND SOFA-LIKE SEATS MAKE CITROEN’S CACTUS ONE OF THE COMFIEST CARS YOU CAN DRIVE

HEN Citroen first launched the C4 Cactus, back in 2014 (and boy, doesn’t that seem like an age ago?) it was almost like a revival of original 2CV, or at least some of that car’s spirit.

The C4 Cactus was originally designed to be a compact crossover, but one that was as cheap as possible to buy (it was barely any more expensive than a Dacia Duster in basic form when first launched), sophisticated where it needed to be, quirky elsewhere, and with ultra-low running costs. The Cactus name came about because a cactus is a plant that can survive on minimal resources, a reflection of the C4’s frugality.

For 2019, though, Citroen has had a bit of a re-think on the Cactus front, and has decided to skew it towards a more sophisticated audience. It’s also the debut vehicle for Citroen’s ‘Advanced Comfort’ tech — a package of improvements and extras that runs the gamut from clever suspension and new seats, to calmer cabins and better refinement.

The most obvious change, though, is to the ‘Airbumps.’ Oh sure, there’s a new grille (taller and narrower than the old C4 Cactus’ more snub nose) and lights, but the biggest visual change is to the Airbumps. These were the bubble-wrap-like panels down the sides of the Cactus which were both styling affectation and genuine panel protection. They really were filled with air, too, for maximum protection

l1.2 PETROL: 130hp Puretech engine

from minor bumps and scrapes. Now, though, they’re gone (doubtless to the relief of those who despised them — they were amongst the most Marmite-like of vehicle styling touches) and have been replaced by a smaller, more discreet strip at the base of the doors.

The updated Cactus looks very smart, very quirky, and very French and these are all good things, as it will need all the help it can get. Instead of being a mildly oddball and affordable crossover, the Cactus now has a new mission in life — to be Citroen’s rival to the likes of the VW Golf, Ford Focus, and Toyota Corolla. Mission; Impossible?

Maybe not. Rather than taking on the kings of the family hatch world headon, Citroen is trying to take a slightly different tack, and it’s using the Citroen Advanced Comfort package to try and give the C4 some appeal in the face of such big-name rivals.

The biggest part of this is the new suspension, which features hydraulic bump stops. What are those? Settle in; I’ll try to explain this without devolving into meaningless tech speak. Normal suspension has things called bump-stops, usually made of very hard rubber, mounted at the top of the springs and dampers. They do exactly what they say on the tin — act as a stopping point for the suspension when it’s moving as much as it can. The problem is that suspension hitting a bump-stop is a big thump —noisy and jarring.

Citroen’s idea is to replace those rubber bump-stops with hydraulic tubes. As the suspension reaches the top of its travel (such as when you hit a big bump), instead of a sudden stop, it glides into a hydraulic fluid reservoir, which slows it down more gradually. That means a gentler impact, and it means that the suspension has more movement, and can be a little softer than usual.

The result is genuinely impressive, although not perfect. Over big intrusions, such as speed ramps, it’s exceptional — absorbing the bump in one smooth, flowing movement. It’s seriously comfortable. It’s less good at dealing with small, sharp bumps, especially around town. If you’re expecting it to be as smooth as an old 1960s DS, it’s not.

It does have truly wonderful seats, though. These now use a mixture of foams, of varying thickness and springiness, and they are just unbelievably comfortable, genuinely relaxing on a longer journey.

The Cactus isn’t bad to drive, either, although it lacks the precision of the likes of the Focus or Golf. The steering is light and easygoing, and the Cactus rolls along generally nicely and without asking too many awkward questions of you. The interior still has some nice, quirky, touches including a glovebox that looks like a suitcase, and a neat digital

FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested: Citroen C4 Cactus PureTech 130 Flair Pricing: €25,795 as tested; Cactus starts at ¡€19,995 Engine: 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol Transmission: six-speed manual, front-wheel drive Body style: five-door, five-seat hatchback CO2 emissions: 110g/km (Band A3, €190 per annum) Combined economy: 58.9mpg (4.8 litres/100km) Top speed: 193km/h 0-100km/h: 8.7 seconds Power: 130hp at 5,500rpm Torque: 230Nm at 1,750rpm Boot: 358 litres (seats up); 1,170 litres (seats down)

instrument pack. The downside is that the central touchscreen, which does come with Apple CarPlay, also means most of the physical buttons you’d expect have now gone, and its menu layout can be fiddly to find your way around.

The Cactus’ best bit (well, best bit aside from the seats) is its 130hp 1.2 PureTech petrol engine. It’s smooth and very powerful, and impressively frugal too. The Cactus retains its touch for value too — this top-spec Flair model, with the most powerful petrol engine, is the same price as a middling model from a rival range.

Still oddball then, if slightly less so, and still good value for money. And the comfiest car in its class, by miles.

Transmission: six-speed manual, front-

Renault MEGANE Grand Coupé The only brand to offer...

1.91% APR AND €750 Cashback AND 3 Years’ Servicing Model shown: Mégane Grand Coupé Signature TCe 140 GPF starting RRP €28,440. Finance example Mégane Grand Coupe Play TCe 140 GPF. RRP €23,940. Deposit €8,140. Term 36 monthly payments of €189. APR 1.91%. Total cost of credit €658 inc fees of €150. Optional final payment €9,504. Includes 3-year service plan. €750 Cashback offer is based on the RRP excluding dealer delivery charges, metallic paint and options. Offer exclusive to Renault Bank. Excess mileage plus excess wear-and-tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Renault Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare Tel 0656821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie

Book a test drive

All-New Dacia Duster Rugged, robust and better looking

Starting from €149 per month – A price as smooth as the ride Hogan Motors Ennis Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare Tel 0656821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie Model shown: All-New Dacia Duster Prestige SCe 115, RRP €21,290 (excluding metallic paint RRP €520). Finance example: Duster ESSENTIAL SCe 115, RRP €17,390. Deposit €5,694. Term 36 monthly payments of €149. APR 4.9%. Total cost of credit €1,434 inc fees of €150. Optional final payment €7,617. Excess mileage plus excess wear-and-tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. Offer exclusive to Dacia Bank. See Dacia.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Dacia Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

38 MOTORING

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

VOLKSWAGEN LAUNCHES BUSINESS-CLASS ELECTRICGOLF

V

E-GOLF EXECUTIVE AIMED SPECIFICALLY AT THOSE LOOKING TO BENEFIT FROM 0 PER CENT BIK

OLKSWAGEN Ireland has revealed a new, additional version of the e-Golf - the Executive Edition. The Executive Edition is aimed at those private or business buyers that want the ultimate e-Golf. In addition to the already well-appointed e-Golf, the Executive Edition adds 17-inch ‘Madrid’ alloy wheels, LED tail lights with running indications, a full leather interior with Sports comfort seats in front, Active Info Display, Rear-View Camera, Heated Front Seats, Tinted Rear Windows and Keyless Access. The added equipment adds up to a total of €4,700 but the car costs just €3,500 in addition to the standard e-Golf.

The e-Golf Executive Edition, (€49,495 before any grants are applied) can avail of a range of incentives including 0 per cent Benefit in Kind, which is capped at €50,000 OMV and 100 per cent Accelerated Capital Allowance***

of up to €24,000, making the car an ideal solution for business customers wishing to start their electro-mobility journey and avail of significantly reduced running costs compared to petrol or diesel models. There is also the benefit of reduced toll fees, free public charging and in the case of some local authorities, free parking when charging.

Commenting on the new Executive Edition e-Golf, Volkswagen Ireland Brand Director Gerrit Heimberg said; “this is an exciting time for Volkswagen as we embark on the new electro-mobility strategy both here in Ireland and internationally. We have secured increased supplies of the e-Golf for 2019 and this new Executive Edition is for buyers wanting the ‘ultimate e-Golf ’ while availing of the benefits of 0 per cent BIK. Plus, all of these benefits come in a Golf, which is a car that has been loved by Irish customers for generations.”

FORD SAYS ‘BIG DATA’ CAN PREVENT ACCIDENTS

I

AI COULD IDENTIFY WHERE AND WHEN A CRASH IS MOST LIKELY

T IS often only after accidents have occurred that particular junctions or stretches of road are identified as problematic for drivers, cyclists or pedestrians.

Now Ford has come up with a means by which big data could potentially help cities identify locations which, if nothing is done, are most likely to be the scene of future traffic incidents. To help find the answer, Ford Smart Mobility, spent the last year recording 1 million kilometres of vehicle and driver behaviour in and around London.

The company tracked vehicle journeys in the city and logged highly detailed driving data from driving events such as braking, the severity of that braking, and even where hazard warning lights were applied.

This helped to identify “near-misses”. Ford then cross-referenced this information against existing accident reports and built an algorithm to determine the likelihood of where future incidents might occur.

“We believe our insights have the potential to benefit millions of people. Even very small changes could make a big difference – maybe cutting back a tree that has obscured a road sign – whether in terms of traffic flow, road safety or efficiency,” said Jon Scott, project lead at City Data Solutions, Ford Smart Mobility.

This idea is just one opportunity identified in the Ford

City Data Report that was launched today by Ford Smart Mobility at the Financial Times Future of Transport conference in London. The report, using data that was obtained and analysed with the consent of participants, took its

findings from more than 15,000 days of vehicle use, from 160 connected vans in the city. * The fleet of vans covered more than 1 million kilometres, the equivalent of 20 times around the earth, and delivered 500 million data points.

Ford is committed to delivering smart vehicles for a smart world – and each vehicle in the study was equipped with a simple plug-in device that recorded the journey data and then sent it to the cloud for analysis. Data scientists from Ford’s Global Data Insight and Analytics team were

then able to analyse the information through an interactive dashboard. This technology could be applied in any road environment, not just in cities.

The report also investigated other opportunities, such as how scheduling delivery van journeys for earlier in the day, before peak times, could benefit all road users, and how using journey data could help to identify the best locations for electric vehicle charging points.

“The Ford City Data Report is a showcase of what we at Ford can do with connected vehicle data, smart infrastructure, and our analytical capabilities. We are calling on cities to work with us to collectively solve problems that they can become even better places to live and work in,” said Sarah-Jayne Williams, director, Ford Smart Mobility, Ford of Europe.

Ford understands that any data-driven solution depends upon the willingness of drivers to share their data, but believes that where there is a clear benefit, that consumers will be more open to supporting such a service.

YOUR NEW BABY IS READY FOR DELIVERY. ŠKODA KODIAQ available now from €379 per month.

Introducing the New KODIAQ, it’s not only ŠKODA’s largest SUV but it’s first car with 7 seats. It delivers on ŠKODA’s usual qualities of practicality, thoughtful design, as well as innovative connectivity solutions that are sure to make family life that little bit sweeter.

Available now with 2.9% finance.

Al Hayes ŠKODA, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Tel: 065 6822400 • www.alhayesskoda.ie Typical Example: KODIAQ 7 Seater 1.5 TSI 150 BHP Active OTRP €32,950. Deposit €10,123.28. 36 monthly payments of €329 including service plan of €12.99 per month. Optional final Payment of €12,880. Total hire purchase price €34,529.64. APR 2.9%. Total cost of credit €1,579.64. Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Volkswagen Bank GMBH branch Ireland is authorised by the federal financial Supervisory authority (BaFIN) in Germany and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Offer available on all orders taken between 15th October to 30th November 2018 & registered before 31st January 2019. Picture for illustrative purposes only. Price includes delivery and related charges. CO2 from 163-129g/km. Combined fuel consumption from 8.5-4.5 l/100km.

Property

Beautiful homes all over the County UNLOCK YOUR DREAM

Spacious family home 35 ABBEYVILLE, LIMERICK ROAD

P

4

3

€209,000

RESENTED for sale in excellent condition throughout is this bright and spacious 4 bedroom (linked) semi detached family home in the popular Abbeyville housing development. Conveniently located, within walking distance of all town amenities and just 400 meters to the M18 link road, this is a fantastic opportunity for the first time buyer or family home purchaser to acquire a turnkey finished home in a small Cul de Sac of just 16 homes all fronting onto a manicured green area. PSL No. 002295 Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

Stunning Bungalow CLAREABBEY, CLARECASTLE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

4

D

2

€299,000

ETACHED bungalow in well sought after residential location. Four Double Bedrooms. Mature site with the benefit of rear access. Potential for further development to rear.275.71 sqm (2968 sqft) - as per BER Cert Detached bungalow in well sought after residential location just off the Clareabbey Exit to M18 motorway and within minutes walk to Clarecastle Village and only 2 km distance from Ennis town centre. Long landscaped mature site with the benefit of rear access. Site has potential for further development to rear, Four Double Bedrooms. Full height ceiling in kitchen with Mezzanine. PSL No. 002295

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

Semi-detached family home 11 GLASSAN. LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

4

2

4

€199,000

Bedroom semi detached house located in a nice corner site in a well sought after residential estate just off the Lahinch Road. South westerly aspect to the rear, fully block wall to sides and rear boundaries, not overlooked. Raised painted decking area, cobbled paving, fully tiled paving area, all low maintenance upkeep. Brick surround BBQ area and detached block built shed. Outside area to the front is a cobbled lock driveway with ample space for at least 2 vehicles. PSL No. 002295

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

Magnificent family home

V95 X763 MOYRIESK, QUIN, ENNIS

Ideally located V95 N6TC 5 COLLEGE GROVE, ENNIS

OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY 15TH DECEMBER 10.30AM - 11.00AM

5

S

3

€325,000

PACIOUS family home in a much sought after location fronting onto Clonroadmore. This is an attractive 4/5 double bedroom detached home just across the road from St.Flannans College.

This house is a bright, open and well proportioned family home with large reception rooms.

The accommodation downstairs consists of a wide entrance hall, a large living room to the front with double doors to the dining room, a kitchen with sunroom, pantry and downstairs bedroom or study. The first floor has a generous landing and four double bedrooms. The master bedroom is ensuite and there is a good family sized main bathroom.

Contact: Diarmuid McMahon Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Phone: 065 6867866

T

5

3

€319,000

HIS magnificent family home is ideally located in the extremely sought after Moyriesk area in Quin, 10 minutes from the M18 motorway and 15 minutes approx. from Ennis town centre.

The property is presented superbly and stands on a landscaped site of circa 0.5 acres (0.21 hectares).

Accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, living room, kitchen/dining area, utility room, two double bedrooms and a shower-room that can be accessed from one of the bedrooms and from the utility room. On the first floor there are three spacious double bedrooms (one with en-suite) and a bathroom.

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

IONA, SHANAWAY ROAD, ENNIS

5

H

€375,000

ELEN GALLERY Auctioneers and Valuers are delighted to bring this very fine home at Iona, Shanaway Road, Ennis to the market. This fine home is ideally located on a quiet country road enjoying the beauty of the countryside but yet just a short drive to Ennis town and the M17 & M18 to Shannon, Limerick and Galway. The property stands on a private, well landscaped site of approximately half an acre. Iona was built in 2000 and the accommodation is bright and spacious with well-proportioned rooms with the ground floor accommodation including living room, kitchen/breakfast room, family room, formal dining room, utility and WC. There are five great sized bedrooms on the first floor, one of which is en-suite, a study and a separate family bathroom.

Viewing of this very fine home is highly recommended.

Contact: Helen Gallery Phone: 086 250 4671 & 065 6829 481

LAST 4 UNITS REMAINING IN PHASE ONE

A development of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom detached & semi detached homes by

Galvin Construction.

www.cluainfia.ie Call 065 6840200 GALVIN CONSTRUCTION

PSL No. 002295

SPORT

42

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Munster Hurling league fixtures made

T

HE opening round of the up and coming Co-Op Superstores Munster Hurling League 2019 sees All-Ireland Champions, Limerick take on Tipperary in the Gaelic Grounds, Limerick on Friday, 14th of Decem-

With a network of stores across Munster and online at coopsuperstores.ie, this sponsorship is an ideal fit for the retail arm of Dairygold as it too is at the heart of local communities across the province.

Co-Op Superstores has something for everyone in the

community. From Stoves and Coal to Lawnmowers and Electrical Appliances, they have become a destination for all things Farm, Home and Garden. Customers can now opt for nationwide delivery direct to their home, farm or business by shopping their online store at www.coopsuperstores.ie.

ber.

Commenting at the launch of the competition, which took place at Co-Op Superstores in Raheen, Limerick which is the flagship store in Dairygold’s retail network, Munster Council Chairman Jerry O’Sullivan said: “I am delighted that all six counties will participate in the 2019 Co-Op Superstores Munster Hurling League. The Munster Council is pleased to facilitate this competition for our counties as it provides participating teams with a great opportunity to prepare for the very competitive Allianz League. I am delighted to welcome Co-Op Superstores as the competition sponsor once again. I thank them for their continued support and look forward to working with them in the months ahead.”

Co-Op Superstores is the retail division of Dairygold Co-Operative. Jim Woulfe, Dairygold CEO stated: “We are very pleased to join forces once again with Munster GAA in what is an extraordinary and unprecedented era for Hurling. As an organisation deeply embedded in Munster, Dairygold through our network of retail stores and our online store coopsuperstores.ie is connected with the GAA across all communities. We are looking forward to being part of another exciting League which gets the 2019 hurling season underway in Munster.”

The launch was attended by Cork Manager, John Meyler, Limerick Manager, John Kiely, Tipperary Manager, Liam Sheedy, Clare Manager, Gerry O’Connor, Waterford Manager, Paraic Fanning and Kerry Manager, Fintan O’Connor. They were joined by Cork player, Seamus Harnedy, Limerick player, Sean Finn, Tipperary player, l LET THE GAMES BEGIN: Austin Hannon Co-Op Superstores Bunratty Manager with Seamus Callanan, Clare player, Conor Cleary, Water- Clare Hurling Manager Gerry O’ Connor & Clare Hurler Conor Cleary at the launch of the ford player, Stephen Bennett and Kerry player Jordan Co-Op Superstores Munster Hurling League 2019 Photo by Arthur Ellis Conway.

JACK LYNCH CHALLENGE

Group 1: Limerick v Tipperary: Friday December 14th, Gaelic Grounds Limerick, 7.30pm Kerry v Limerick: Thursday December 20th, Austin Stack Park Tralee, 7.30pm Tipperary v Kerry: Saturday January 5th, MacDonagh Park Nenagh, 2pm Group 2: Clare v Cork: Saturday December 29th, Cusack Park Ennis, 2pm Cork v Waterford: Wednesday January 2nd, Mallow, 7.30pm Waterford v Clare: Sunday January 6th, Fraher Field Dungarvan, 3pm Final: Sunday January 13th, venue and time tbc.

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB

WOODSTOCK

Results Weekend 9th December 2018

Club Singles Stableford 02/12/18 1. Ian Birchall (21) 38 Pts 2. Pat Keane (10) 37 Pts CSS N/A

Gents B/B Fourball 9/10 Handicap 16 Holes ( 2nd & 7th Out) 1st John Mc Namara(12) & Eddie Glenny(17) 41pts 2nd Ger O’ Brien(16) & Pat G Mc Inerney(13) 39pts 3rd Liam Pyne(5) & J K Considine(12) 38pts 4th Kieran Fox(6) & Tom Fox(18) 37pts 5th Ml Kerin(18) & Matt Flynn(20) (38-2) 36pts

l GIVING HIM THE SLIP: Clare’s Niall Deasy leaves James Breren on his pants in Clare’s 1-19 to 2-13 win over Wexford in Tulla at the weekend in the Jack Lynch Memorial Challenge

Photo by Martin Connolly

CO-OP SUPERSTORES MUNSTER SENIOR HURLING LEAGUE 2019 DRAW AND DATES

Club Singles Stableford (15h) 09 & 10/12/18 1. Pat Keane(10) 36pts(BOT) 2. Pat Solon(14) 36pts CSS N/A Upcoming Fixtures Club Singles Stableford 16 & 17/12/18 Presentation of Outstanding Cups, scratch Cups, Matchplay trophies & Monthly Medals at the upcoming AGM

CLASSIFIEDS 43

Classifieds THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

ACCOUNTANCY

BOOKKEEPING

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

CHILDMINDER REQUIRED Doora area. To mind 3 children Mon-Fri. Start Feb 2019, age 4,3 and 8 months either in their own home OR in minders home.

Preschool drop/collect. Sept 2019, local school run TEL: 087- 2263101

CLEANING & POWER WASHING

CAR REPAIRS

mbs-clare-echo.indd 1

17/09/2018 20:10:50

CONSTRUCTION

CAR REPAIRS

The Clare Echo Classifieds Contact 065 671 9021

44 CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Classifieds FIREWOOD

PAINTING

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

ROOFING

JOB OPPORTUNITIES RELIGION

DRIVING LESSONS

PAINTING & DECORATING

The Clare Echo Classifieds

Contact 065 671 9021

CLASSIFIEDS 45

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

Classifieds STORAGE

TARMACADAM

TREE SURGEON

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

WINDOW AND DOORS

46 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

Your Horoscopes Dec 13

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Stop thinking and start feeling. Today try to let your guard down and share more of your inner self with people who are relatively new in your life. Too much logic isn’t a good thing -- your mind needs to connect with someone else’s in a way that no science can quantify or describe. Leading with your heart could get you into awkward, but genuine, situations.

Taurus

Gemini

You’ll be very particular in the things you do today, and this persnickety attitude will be a very fortunate thing to happen to you right now. It will prevent any sort of problems or mistakes from popping up. It might not be your usual routine to check, double-check and then triple-check things, but you’ll get solid enjoyment out of it today. So just go with it!

It’s admirable that you’re so willing to work with others to get things done -- your teamwork ethic is to be applauded.

However, today you realize that if you want something, you might need to elbow your way to the front of the line to get it. It’s not about putting yourself ahead of others -- it’s about knowing when to grab control and make things happen.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

A recent unexpected shift in one of your relationships may have you feeling a bit shell-shocked right now, but that’s something you can snap out of easily. All you need to do is look for the signs. Turn off your brain and stop thinking so hard, and the answers will come to you. Once you see the signal you need, don’t waste time -- just move! Forget any requirements or minimums. You don’t need them, and if you wait too long, you could miss a big chance.

If you see something wrong today, do whatever you can to make it right. This applies to everything, from something as trivial as pointing out a stranger’s untied shoelace to something as major as preventing a traffic accident. Don’t be shy when you see something awry. Your keen observations can save other people money, time and stress. Your energy is stronger than ever right now, and you can add a lot of value to anything you touch.

There’s a big opportunity coming your way today, so you need to be ready to jump at a moment’s notice. Even if the morning’s energy seems subdued or even quiet, there will be major things happening all around you as the day progresses. This could be a behind-the-scenes type of situation, so feel free to ask questions and consult the people around you to find out what’s really going on. Let your curiosity drive you, and you may discover happy surprises.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Aries

1/1

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an ideal

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

As soon as you open your eyes this morning, you’ll sense a prickling of energy and possibility. You might not be able to identify it -- which means you might not know what to do with it. Just carry on as usual, and this energy will snowball into something more identifiable as the day continues. Keep your eyes open for things that spark your interest -- there may be an invitation extended to you that offers a chance to channel yourself in a new direction.

The quiet calm of your daily routine is about to be shaken up a bit. There are quite a few surprises headed your way (both good and bad), and today is the day when they begin to trickle into your world. Try to keep on top of every new development -- if you do, you’ll be able to maintain composure when things start to get a bit hairy. It’s a great way to keep your cool and boost your reputation.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Your work or school environment has been polluted lately by someone whose maturity level leaves a lot to be desired.

This has been creating tension and slowing you down.

Luckily, today you may start to see hopeful signs that this person is willing to grow up a bit. They may reach out to you and extend an olive branch. While their gesture may be clumsy, consider the meaning behind it. Give them a few more chances to prove they can work with you.

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There’s a very clear, focused energy inside of you, and today you’re able to channel it more effectively than ever before. It’s perfect timing, too -- there are many mysterious people orbiting your universe, and you should try to figure out what they’re all about right now. Some confusing emails have been going back and forth for a while, and chances are you’re misunderstanding what’s really going on. Make an effort to clarify the truth.

ACROSS 1 One who believes he is taking part in race (6) 4 Fictional detective left in houses (6) 8 Hours in pleasant alcove (5) 9 A pop star has to shake and moan (7) 10 Monarch crossing street to see cattle thief (7) 11 Woodworker’s tool found in tree (5) 12 Down with legal document constraining journalists! (9) 17 Concerning a fight (5) 19 A gentle movement showing refinement (7) 21 Female with pride - sole sin, perhaps (7) 22 Animal finding fruit by river in Italy (5)

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If your house were burning down, would you try to put out the fire with just a bottle of water? No. You’d call the fire department for help and get the right resources to address the situation correctly. So today, when there’s an upsetting situation or unexpected problem, don’t just treat the symptoms. Placating someone to keep them happy for a little while isn’t the right answer.

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If it seems like doors are being closed around you and there’s some whispering going on, don’t get paranoid.

Today, you have an unusually heightened sense of your surroundings, which means that things you never noticed before will suddenly jump out at you. It’s true that you might be out of the loop, but that’s okay -- you have enough on your plate right now, and it’s a good thing to be left out of the decision making sometimes.

23 Agreement to try tea break (6) 24 Colourful Dutch royal house (6) DOWN 1 Singers in nest, or bats? (6) 2 Tax on diamonds is removed (7) 3 Missile that may be found on the beach (5) 5 Greek king, complex for psychiatrists (7) 6 Heavenly food provided by married woman? (5) 7 Passed off as a dark suit (6) 9 Lady-killer? (9) 13 One requiring treatment and prepared to wait (7) 14 Late Greek god betraying no emotion

(7) 15 A striker everyone has encountered coming out? (6) 16 Made great efforts to sway voters (6)

18 Some bozo needing gas (5) 20 Number three, possibly? (5)

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QUIZ 47

THURSDAY, DEC 13 2018

The Clare Echo Quiz CLARE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE

mouth of the Shannon is in what year was the Clare Abbey 8 The county Clare and source is in the in?

1 Infounded Shannon Pot?Where is the Shannon The Ailwee Cave is said to be the Pot located?

2 oldest cave in the Burren. How old is it?

1195, 1295, 1395

Fermanagh, Cavan, Louth

1 million, 1.5 million, 2 million

ing a number of symbols relevant to County Clare. How many symbols

4

What is the population of Clare?

5

In what year was the town of Shannon given it’s status? 1982,

1983, 1984

overseas tourists in 2017. How many

6

What is the highest point in Clare? Slievecallan, Moylussa, Slieve

overseas tourists visited Clare?

Elva

museum was the scattery 7 Which island bell “Clog an Óir” sold to?

The British Musem, The Dublin museum, National Museum of Denmark

are in the Clare Crest? 4, 5 ,6 to Failte Ireland 10According Ireland welcomed 9 million

l QUESTION 3: All Ireland final between Clare and Cork

ANSWERS

749,000, 849,000, 949,000

1. 1195 2. 1.5 million² 3. 11

between 100 -150,000 , 150- 200,000 200 - 250,000

6. Moylussa 7. The British Museum 8. Cavan 9. 6 10.749,000

Clare and Cork? 9, 10, 11

1986, the Council intro9During duced this Coat of Arms signify-

4. between 100 -150,000 5. 1982

How many goals where scored 3 over the 2 games in the 2013 All-Ireland Hurling final between

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Ennis Abbey, Co Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: Lawrence Photograph Collection

HGXmasFPG-2017-61118-ENNIS.qxp_Layout 1 27/11/2018 11:38 Page 1

interiors

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Open Monday to sat, 9.30 to 6, sun 1 to 5 | Kilrush Road, Ennis Ph: 065 6797040