The Clare Echo 14/12/23 by The Clare Echo

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Dec 14 2023

FESTIVE CHEER HSE apologise

over death of Clare teenager Review finds serious failings in Aoife Johnston case by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

l John McCabe and Seamus Mulligan deliver a Christmas meal to Patricia Dempsey as part of Photo by Joe Buckley the Shannon Garda station festive initiative

“SERIOUS FAILINGS” in the care given to a Shannon teenager in the days leading up to her death have been highlighted in an internal review. Aoife Johnston was sixteen years old when she died of bacterial meningitis at University Hospital Limerick on December 19th 2022. Her death occurred two days after she first presented at the hospital. Members of the Johnston family were provided last week with an internal review into the circumstances of her death.

An internal review into the death of the St Caimin’s Community School student was commissioned by Prof Brian Lenehan, Chief Clinical Director, UL Hospitals Group, and completed by an expert HSE team external to UL Hospitals Group under the HSE Incident Management Framework. This review found that Aoife waited 12 hours in UHL’s severely overcrowded emergency department and was not treated for sepsis until it was too late. She was not given the care she required despite her family desperately flagging her deteriorating condition. The review

found that delays in her treatment breached national guidelines on sepsis management. HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster has received the review and is aware that the UL Hospitals Group has offered an apology for the failings in care identified in the review. Gloster is willing to meet the family privately should they wish to do so.

Full story pg 14-15

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Grant calls for gambling act

CONTENTS

NEWS .............................2-21 XMAS FEATURE .........24-27 GREEN CLARE ...........28-29 COLUMNISTS ..............30-33 BUSINESS ...................34-35 SCULLY .............................36 SPORT..........................37-41 CLASSIFIEDS ..............42-43

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

Looks like reindeer in Ballynacally

Ger Moran selling Estuary Wildflower Honey and Christmas trees at Ballynacally Christmas market

CLARE’S sole Green Party member on the local authority has led the call for a redistribution of the gambling levy towards social projectswrites Páraic McMahon. Following a motion by Cllr Liam Grant (GP), Clare County Council are to write to the Department of Justice and Minister of State James Browne (FF) asking them to enact the Gambling Regulation Bill “as soon as possible”. Cllr Grant outlined, “There’s a lot of people around the country suffering with gambling addiction and this legislation needs to be brought forward to safeguard persons participating in gambling. So many people’s lives have been harmed from gambling, it needs to be regulated”. “I’m also calling for the redistribution of the gambling levy into social projects including the creation of a social impact fund to finance initiatives aimed at reducing problem gambling. Since 2001, €1.5 billion has been given to horse and greyhound racing from this levy. These industries are well able to support themselves and this funding needs to go towards more worthy causes,” he added. Speaking on Monday, the Lahinch representative quoted research from the ESRI which detailed that one in thirty people have a gambling addiction in Ireland. “It is a huge amount which is growing year on year, we need to regulate the industry, there is a lot of issues around it, trying to safeguard it would be great, we need proper regulation to just protect people”. According to Cllr Grant, the gambling levy is “one of the most bizarre taxes in the country”. Gambling is more prevalent than ever, he flagged. “People have Paddy Power in their pocket, they are going to the pub and getting notifications while watching a soccer match.”

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Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Aileen Magner becomes new Chief Superintendent in further reshuffle

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE has its fifth Chief Superintendent in the space of four years following another reshuffle in An Garda Síochána. Aileen Magner made history this week as the first female Chief Superintendent to serve in the amalgamated Clare/Tipperary Garda Division. Her appointment became effective on Monday. This makes her the fifth Chief Supt in the county in 1,637 days or 53 months. Colm O’Sullivan’s time as Chief Superintendent of the now merged Clare and Tipperary Garda Divisions ended on Monday. Cork native O’Sullivan became the first-ever Chief Supt of the amalgamated Garda Divisions which brought Clare and Tipperary together. He was appointed in October 2022. Formerly a Superintendent in Ennistymon, in 2015 he became regional officer at the Risk, Compliance and Continuous Improvement Office in Cork. O’Sullivan is expected to be based out of Thurles in his new role as Regional Chief Superintendent for the Southern Region of An Garda Síochána but is likely that he will be carry a lot of work while located in his native county. The vacancy arose following the appointment of Garda Chief Superintendent Brian Sugrue, a native of Cloughjordan,

to the Garda Training College in Templemore. Joining Chief Supt Sugrue in the Garda College is former Superintendent Kieran Ruane, he had formerly worked as a Detective Inspector in Ennis. Replacing O’Sullivan at the head of the Clare and Tipperary Garda Divisions is Kilfinane native, Aileen Magner. A former Superintendent in Newcastle West and Henry Street in Co Limerick, she was promoted to Chief Superintendent in the Dublin Metropolitan Region, in July. After graduating with a BA in History and English from the University of Galway, she started in Templemore Garda College at the age of 21. Since she was 16, Aileen wanted to be a Garda, her mother’s first cousin, the late Denis Corkery was a former sergeant and was very supportive of her desire to join the police force. Upon finishing in Templemore, she spent nine years stationed in Westport before working for a year in Cyprus with the United Police Force, she then moved to Mallow where she became a sergeant. Work as a sergeant saw her based in Cobh and Fermoy before her appointment as sergeant in charge in Charleville in late 2009. On her transfer to Killarney, Aileen was promoted to Inspector and then returned to the Mallow District which resulted in her appointment

l EXPENSIVE: Chief Superintendent Aileen Magner will head up the Clare/Tipperary Garda Division

as Superintendent. She transferred to the former Newcastle West District in March 2019 and then onto Henry Street in Limerick City in September 2022. Further studies completed by the mother of two include a postgrad in Serious Crime Investigation, Master of Arts in Serious Crime Investigations, qualifications in Human Rights Law, as well as a Postgrad in Leadership in Policing. Current Chief Supt of the Kerry Garda Division, Padraic Powell had been on course to succeed O’Sul-

livan but this decision was rowed back on. He had been one of the lead investigators in the so-called ‘Mr Moonlight’ murder case in Tipperary. Changes to the ranks of An Garda Síochána have left Shannon without an Inspector. Insp Paul Slattery has moved from Shannon to Henry Street and his post remains vacant. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) welcomed the appointment of Chief Supt Magner. “I’ve heard many positive things about Aileen and I

know that rank and file Gardaí see her as a very positive influence and someone who knows how to appropriately exercise her leadership role in the organisation”. He continued, “From an elected representatives point of view it is important that we have ongoing engagement with senior Gardaí in the Division, at a time when Garda numbers are depleted and resources are very much over-stretched, it is important that TDs are fully aware of the situation on the ground so we can fight for better resources in our county”. Deputy Crowe was hopeful the imbalance of Superintendent allocations in the Division would be revised. Of the six Superintendents in the Clare and Tipperary Garda Division, five of them are located in the Premier County. “I would love to see Chief Supt Magner look at the geographical imbalance of leadership within the Division, I know that the Superintendent positions were determined a few years ago but I don’t believe that all situations should remain static, I hope this could be fluid and subject to some change, certainly going forward Commissioner Drew Harris needs to better cognisance of the immense geography of the Clare/ Tipperary Division. I look forward to Chief Supt Magner being a positive force in the Division”.

'We need to restore Garda morale and public confidence'

Ballynacally Christmas market

Conal Clancy fundraising for the Fr. David education fund at Ballynacally Christmas market

A CHANGE of policing model in Ireland is needed to help restore morale in the force and confidence among the public, Clare councillors have stated, writes Páraic McMahon. Concerns on the pressure placed on Gardaí in the county since the August amalgamating of the Clare Garda Division with Tipperary has come to the fore while confidence in senior management of An Garda Síochána has been discussed nationally following the Dublin riots on November 23rd. In a proposal before Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND), Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG), Cllr Ian Lynch (IND), Cllr Pat Burke (FG), Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) and Cllr Pat Daly (FF) called on Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee (FG) and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris “to revisit the current model of policing”. They argued that the current model “is not fit for purpose and is based on reactionary policing and in the current times the public feel very vulnerable both in rural communities and urban communities throughout Clare and find the lack of adequate numbers of Gardai on the ground is having a negative impact on their lives”. Members of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors in July urged the Government to change the model, it was adopted by

the Government in 2018. Speaking on Monday, Cllr Flynn outlined, “We are not looking for people to resign but we are looking for a change of policy. The current model of policing has left rural and urban parts of Clare without adequate cover, rural Clare has had their local Garda stations closed and people targeted by lawless people onto their property and at times intimidating them”. He added, “It is time that a stop was put to this type of policing which we feel is not working, we need to return Gardaí to rural areas where there was also good interactions”. Flynn continued, “We need to restore confidence in the people. They don’t mind being policed as long as it is fair and equitable”. Issues in Shannon were flagged by Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF). She recently met with Sergeant Seamus Mulligan along with Shannon Municipal District staff Tom Mellett and Anne Griffin. “There is no morale in the Gardaí, we have no community garda in Shannon as a result of one of them being attacked while on duty,” she stated. “Prevention is better than cure, we need to have visible gardaí on street but they have to feel safe in their jobs”. Increasing numbers in the force must be a priority, Cllr O’Callaghan maintained. He welcomed plans to

have Gardaí wearing body cams within twelve months. “One thing is for certain is they were caught off-guard in Dublin, we’re in a dangerous society where things can be organised so quickly on WhatsApp”. Attention must be paid to those breaking the law, Cllr Johnny Flynn flagged. “A lot of these thugs believe they are untouchable,” he said of the rioters and looters in the capital. “A lot of them are getting the benefits of free legal aid so there is no discouragement for them to change their behaviour”. Resources and consequences were cited by Cllr Lynch as the two main items. “The ability for criminals to mobilise is phenomenal, they can set up a distraction in a rural area to suck up resources and complete multiple robberies and leaving very quickly,” he cautioned. Minister McEntee must step up to improve conditions for Gardaí, he stressed. Cllr Kelly commented, “The only permanent thing today is change and the only way to make progress is to deal with change”. Gardaí have aired their frustrations, Cllr Daly observed. He said the current model of policing is “limited”. He added, “when they arrest someone they spend more time on paperwork than on the arrest itself. I would like to see Gardaí on motorcyles getting more involved on alleviating traffic congestion”.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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‘Once I went into the chair nobody saw me’ - MS sufferer speaks out by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ENNISTYMON woman has spoken out at the “unconscious bias” against people with disabilities. Trish McNamara described herself as “new to disabilities”. She has Multiple sclerosis (MS), the autoimmune disease in which the insulating covers of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord are damaged, is an acquired disease. For the past five years, she has been confined to a wheelchair and this way of life has been eye-opening. “Since I went into the chair I’ve realised how different people with disabilities are treated and I don’t think it is fair”. Speaking to The Clare Echo at a protest organised by the Clare Leader Forum against the Green Paper on Disability Reform, Trish reflected, “For me it was very dramat-

l Trish McNamara

ic, when I was walking I had no problem getting work, I had a good career in hotel

management and HR, then I went onto two walking sticks or two crutches and then

into the chair. While I was on the crutches people saw me but once I went into the chair, nobody saw me and worse again nobody listened to me when I tried to speak. There is an unconscious bias out there against people with disabilities and unfortunately I have felt it, it is just not fair because we are human”. She recalled her experiences of encountering unconscious bias. “I did interviews for years and you can see it. I got to a point where I was saying ‘I am in a wheelchair but I really want the job, these are my qualifications, this is what I’ve done and this is my work history’ but I might not have even got an interview. It is not everybody but we need to start changing people’s outlook on people with disabilities, it starts with the younger people”. Infrastructure for persons with disabilities have “im-

proved dramatically” in Ennistymon, she acknowledged. “If there is something that I need the County Council have always been able to provide it for me so credit where it is due, they are very good and they are keeping that infrastructure mind when they are developing the town, the only thing we have to get is a bus stop which is wheelchair accessible, I can’t get a bus from Ennistymon to the Cliffs of Moher, I can get on at the Cliffs of Moher but I have to get off in Ennis”. Her involvement with the Clare Leader Forum began three years ago. “I have to say they are a great bunch of people and I’ve learned a huge amount from working with them, everyone has something to add and every day is a school day”. Trish is adamant that plenty of changes are needed to the Green Paper on Disability

Reform. “It was done without thought and I’d imagine by a group of civil servants who felt this is the right way to go forward for the country, it might be for the country but it is absolutely not for disabled people, it is impeding and infringing on our human rights, it cannot be allowed to go ahead in its present state, it is not all bad, stream lining the payments is a good idea and getting rid of means testing is a good idea, the sheer thought that disabled people don’t want to work is misinformed, we absolutely do want to work but we need the supports in order to do that and we’ve got to get rid of the unconscious bias that some employers have. We are proactive and we will put in a submission for the 15th of March with some alternatives to what they have put forward,” she concluded.

Clare Leader Forum oppose Green Paper on reform

CLARE Leader Forum are calling for the Green Paper on Disability Reform to be scrapped, writes Páraic McMahon. On Friday, Clare Leader Forum took to the streets of Ennis in protest of the Green Paper on Disability Reform. A day previous, four members, Dermot Hayes, Noel Kearney, Brian Hogan and Emma Mulqueen were outside Leinster House as disability groups from across the country protested outside the Houses of the Oireachtas. Government have said the Green Paper is their response to a commitment to developing and consulting on a ‘strawman’ proposal on the restructuring of longterm disability payments under the Roadmap for Social Inclusion 2021-2025 Strategy Published in late September, it plans to implement a three tier system to restructure the rates of pay administered to those living with a disability in Ireland. Those on tier one who are deemed to have the highest support needs and would receive the state pension rate of €265.30 per week. Those on tier two and tier three meanwhile would receive €242 and the current standard rate of disability allowance of €220 per week respectively.

l PROTEST: Clare Leader Forum outside Dáil Éireann

Proposals of reforming income supports which include, Disability Allowance, Invalidity Pension, Blind Pension, Partial Capacity Benefit, and the Domiciliary Care Allowance are also included in the Green Paper. Already activists have secured a win with the deadline for submissions to the Department of Social Protection pushed back from December 15th to March 15th. Dermot Hayes of the Clare Leader Forum told The Clare Echo, “It was supposed to be dealt with and sorted out by December but they postponed it until March which is great, nonetheless we want the whole thing scrapped”. He stated, “What the Government are proposing

in this Green Paper, there’s five disability payments and they want to condense them into three, we want consultation and not these public events where there are meetings in three parts of the country which is not accessible to a lot of people with disabilities. We want serious consultation. They are encouraging people to go out to work from the age of 18 to 65, we are asking will the personal assistance be there if we need it”. Corofin native Dermot outlined, It is a big document from the Government but had little consultation and it put a lot of nerves into people especially in the winter time, to get people out protesting and campaigning is difficult even in the summer”.

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Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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HSE turns down in-camera meeting

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Agricultural Show Society enjoy festive meal

Attending the Co Clare Agricultural Show Society Dinner in The Old Ground Hotel on Friday December 8th 2023 were Cllr Tom O Callaghan, Joe Lillis Chairman, Cllr Pat Daly Mayor of Ennis and John Costello Life President

HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster has turned down a request by councillors in Clare to attend a behind closed doors meeting. At the November meeting of Clare County Council, Councillors proposed that Gloster attend an in-camera meeting with local representatives, such a gathering would have excluded members of the media from attending and reporting on the engagement. In correspondence issued to the Council, the HSE CEO outlined, “As you will appreciate I am the CEO for all of the country and it would not be possible for

me to engage directly with each local area or authority and many have very significant challenges, all legitimate”. He explained, “I am currently working with the leadership of the UL Hospitals, Mid‐West Community Healthcare, National Ambulance Service and Public Health to make improvements in the Mid‐West including Clare. I am also changing the structure of the HSE into six dedicated Regions and the Mid‐West is one. “This will result in one single leader having the authority and responsibility to manage and integrate all services in thew Mid‐ West and report directly to me”.

Gloster is currently interviewing candidates for the role of Regional Executive Officer and he said the appointed person will be able to meet with Councils in their area when they take up their appointment “hopefully before the end of quarter 1 in 2024”. As a compromise for the interim, he committed to asking the CEO UL Hospitals, the Chief Officer of HSE Mid‐West Community Healthcare, the Mid‐West Director of Public Health and the Mid‐West Manager of the National Ambulance to meet with the Council ‘in camera’ before the end of 2023.

'All I want for Christmas is for Israel to stop killing children' - Clare reps agree on call for ceasefire

CALLS for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza have been agreed by elected members of Clare County Council, writes Páraic McMahon. At Monday’s meeting of the local authority, a motion seeking a boycott of all Israeli goods into the country and calls for a ceasefire were discussed but debate also arose on whether a flag in solidarity should be erected outside the Council’s headquarters. Shannon based, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) tabled the motion which referenced the ongoing bombardment and collective punishment by Israel of innocent men, women and children in Gaza over the last seven weeks. “We therefore formally endorse and support the Palestinian-led Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement to compel Israel to comply with international law and universal human rights. In addition, we support calls for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire and full humanitarian intervention to alleviate the suffering of the people of the besieged Gaza Strip. We call for the release of all hostages and prisoners by both sides as part of a comprehensive

ceasefire”. She said, “There are almost 18,000 dead with more than 40,090 injured and thousands more left under the rubble of what was Gaza”. Fundamental human rights of the Palestinian people have been denied by Israel. “There are 2.5m people crowded into an area that equates to one sixth of Clare, there is absolutely nowhere for them to hide,” Donna flagged. She suggested flying a flag outside Áras Contae an Chláir to show solidarity with the people of Palestine. “All I want for Christmas this year is for Israel to stop killing children,” commented Cllr Liam Grant (GP). He voiced his horror at watching events over social media where innocent children are dying. “Irish people have been very vocal about this, we want to see a ceasefire, sanctions from EU need to happen to stop the slaughtering of Palestinian civilians”. Support was voiced by Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) who referenced how “everyone in Europe opened their doors” to the people of Ukraine when crisis unfolded following Russia’s invasion. 70% of the 18,000

dead in Palestine are women and children, He added, “We are all shocked and horrified at what is happening. We need to use our unique position where we’ve been recognised worldwide for roles in peacekeeping and humanitarian and act urgently”. Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) said he always tried to work to the mandate of representing the people who elected him as a county councillor, “We’ve a Department of Foreign Affairs who operate to a higher level”. The Shannon representative admitted, “I found the lobbying on this motion distasteful and I would ask the meetings administrator not to have my name included on this motion, I am not knowledgeable enough to know what is going on nor am I going to pretend I am”. Efforts of the Irish Government were praised by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). She expressed disappointment in her “adopted country” of the United States of America on the matter and said she didn’t support the call for a boycott of Israel goods in Ireland. Admitting it was not a nice motion to table, Cllr McGettigan felt it

lGAZA: The Palestinian flag will not be raised was necessary. “The Palestinians them”. will hear the local people standing Cllr McGettigan repeated her up for them and it will give them calls for a flag to be flown outside strength. I did receive one email, the Council and this was seconded I am disheartened to hear other by Cllr Hayes. Mayor Cooney then lobbying emails came through that told the meeting, “the ruling is that weren’t nice, I wasn’t the author of no flag will be raised”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Spoil your loved ones with a Dromoland Castle gift voucher this Christmas CHRISTMAS gifting is a festive dream at Dromoland Castle where the season of giving means high-end collaborations between one of Ireland’s most iconic hotels and the country’s best luxury brands.

earthy, grounding aroma of lush ferns, reminiscent of leisurely strolls through the sprawling woodland estate, envelop your senses.

Irish Mythology x Mixology: Dromoland Castle’s new tome of captivating cocktails

Dromoland x Begley & Bowie

A unique compendium of cocktails that pay homage to Ireland’s rich heritage of ancient gods and goddesses has been created by Dromoland Castle’s head mixologist Alex Beyou. The compilation, named Tuatha Dé Danann and Other Celtic Deities presents a series of signature cocktails that and be concocted in the comfort of your own home. Following the sell-out success of his first cocktail book for the hotel, Beyou has worked alongside former Dromoland employee-turned-illustrator, Coleman Costello, to create a suitably stunning limited edition sequel to the previous tarot-themed incarnation that already has a waitlist of eager recipients.

One of Ireland’s premier art and fashion brands, Begley & Bowie, has created an exclusive collection of Dromoland Castle clothing featuring the hotel’s iconic frontage captured in Kerry artist Doireann Healy’s cool, smile-inducing illustrations. Cosy sweaters and colour-pop t-shirts for adults and children alike are sure to be the collector’s items of the season.

Dromland x At Home In Paradise

Indulge your senses with Dromoland Castle’s signature fragrances: the Limetree & Wisteria and Forgotten Ferns candles. Crafted in collaboration with local artisan At Home In Paradise, based in County Clare, these exquisite candles capture the very essence of the magnificent 500-acre woodland estate and cherished walled gardens. Limetree & Wisteria - Let the sweet, delicate notes of blooming wisteria vines intertwine with the in-

Dromoland x Deborah Veale

l Dromoland Castle x Katie Larmour vigorating zest of Limetree leaves. Allow this captivating fragrance to transport you deep into the heart of Dromoland’s gardens, where you can fully immerse yourself in a sym-

phony of aromas that whisper tales of grace and serenity. Forgotten Ferns - Embark on a journey of nostalgia and allow the

The opening of the new Castle Spa earlier this year came accompanied by the arrival of gorgeous, fluffy robes by Irish designer Deborah Veale. Taking luxury to the next level, these special robes look and feel beautiful, and allow you to recreate some of that blissful spa feeling in the comfort of your own

home. The perfect Christmas luxury gift to cosy up in.

Dromoland x Katie Larmour:

Dromoland Castle are thrilled to launch a collection of handmade linen Christmas decorations created in collaboration with Katie Larmour, based in Belfast. Each ornament is a labour of love, skilfully combining vintage, local mill headstock rolls from one of the last remaining linen mills still active in Ireland today, repurposed antique tablecloths, and off-cuts from Katie’s own cushion making.

Dromoland x You:

Who better to collaborate with Dromoland Castle than…you? The Escape & Enjoy Gift Voucher allows the lucky recipient to put their individual stamp on a heavenly twonight stay at this iconic address. With accommodation in either a spacious Queen Anne or Deluxe room overlooking the lake and gardens, and breakfast made fresh-toorder each morning, the rest of your time is there to be tailored bespoke to you whether you crave outdoor adventures or inmost sanctuary. The Escape & Enjoy gift voucher is available from the special price of €680* (normally €860).

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Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Judge dismisses objection from Cllr O’Callaghan to pub licence transfer

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A FIANNA Fáil councillor has failed in his objection to the transfer of a publican’s licence for his former pub in South-East Clare. At Killaloe District Court sitting in Ennis, Judge Alec Gabbett dismissed a bid by Alan O’Callaghan to object to the transfer of the licence for the Pumphouse pub at Kilmurry, Sixmilebridge from landlord, Tim Donnellan to his son, Ronan Donnellan. Judge Gabbett said that he was not satisfied concerning the objection grounds put forward by solicitor for Mr O’Callaghan, Daragh Hassett. Judge Gabbett said, “I don’t think it is the right way to go about it”. On behalf of Mr O’Callaghan, Mr Hassett said that he was objecting to the transfer of the licence as Tim Donnellan and another owed his client €5,100. Mr Hassett said that Mr O’Callaghan has secured a court decree judgement for the €5,100 debt but this has been ignored and Mr O’Callaghan has been effectively getting

the ’two fingers’ in his attempts to obtain what is owed to him. Mr Hassett said, “My client doesn’t do this lightly and in 25 years in practise this is my second time ever to object to the transfer of a licence”. He said, “Mr O’Callaghan’s debt arises from his occupation of this particular premises and the people involved include the applicant, Tim Donnellan’s son, Ronan Donnellan”. He added, “It is not that my client is coming to court saying I am owed money by the licensee, Tim Donnellan for an unrelated matter such as ‘bales of hay’. The debt arises from Mr O’Callaghan’s previous occupation of the pub whilst the previous licensee and a paying tenant”. Mr Hassett argued that “it is inappropriate for the court to grant the applicant who is the debtor’s son here a new licence in circumstances where he is well aware of a debt owed”. Mr Hassett said that Tim Donnellan and Ronan Donnellan “are involved as a family in the pub and both know all about this debt”. He said, “There is a decree for judgement obtained here. It wasn’t

contested. I wrote to them and gave them every chance to come and there been zero engagement”. Mr Hassett said that Mr O’Callaghan occupied the premises from 2009 to 2022 and paid deposits totalling €12,100 and then he worked that down by consent and when he left the premises and he was owed €5,100. Mr Hassett said that Mr O’Callaghan “co-operated fully with the hand-over and co-operated fully with the new operator on the basis that he would be paid his money”. Mr Hassett said that Ronan Donnellan got involved with his client and made some ham-fisted excuse where he told his client ‘there are two fridges damaged here so we don’t owe you anything’. Mr. Hassett said his client will say that is not accurate and stated the fridges spoke of were in the pub when his client commenced his lease. In response, solicitor for Ronan Donnellan, Stiofan Fitzpatrick said, “I don’t accept what is being said. It is a civil matter and an enforcement matter. It is separate to this. This is a licensing matter”. Mr Fitzpatrick said that Ronan

lCllr Alan O’Callaghan Photo by John Mangan Donnellan is not the person who owes money to anyone. Mr Fitzpatrick added that Mr Hassett has a number of options open to him where he can enforce the decree through the civil procedure. Mr Fitzpatrick said, “He has got his decree and it is up to him to enforce that”.

Mr Fitzpatrick said that he was not the person who received correspondence on the matter. Dismissing the grounds of Mr Hassett’s objections and approving the licence transfer, Judge Gabbett said “there is no father or son who is liable for each other’s debts”.

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Broadford & Cooraclare finally confirmed for €50m scheme by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

BROADFORD and Cooraclare have been finally included in the €50 million rural wastewater collection and treatment scheme. On Thursday morning, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage Darragh O’Brien (FF) made the long-awaited announcement with details on the successful applicants. The scheme targets the waste water collection and treatment needs of villages and settlements without access to public waste water services. It ends an over-four decade wait for both Broadford and Cooraclare to have a sewerage scheme. After a memo was put before Cabinet, Minister O’Brien received Government approval to progress with the scheme. The scheme is funded by a €50 million commitment under the National Development Plan (NDP) to 2025. Last September, Broadford and Cooraclare were submitted by Clare County Council in an official application for inclusion. The scheme was first announced by Minister O’Brien in April 2022 with many false-dawns on potential positive news speculated by Government representatives in the interval. Minister O’Brien stated, “This

Government have committed, through the NDP, to support the proportionate growth of rural towns and villages. We absolutely understand the need for balanced regional investment and growth throughout the country and the importance of equitable rural investment. As well as that we are extremely conscious of the risks arising from inappropriate waste water treatment infrastructure both to public health and indeed the environment”. Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) commented, “When Fianna Fáil entered government in 2020, I was asked by party leadership what issues I wanted to see included in the Programme for Government. I said that the provision of rural sewerage schemes would be a redline issue for me and I am delighted that I have been able to pursue this issue in government and now secure the necessary funding from Minister Darragh O’Brien. “Both villages have waited many decades for such infrastructure and local action groups in both areas have been frustrated at the length of time it took to achieve this. Rural villages have long been a priority of mine, as without a sewerage scheme, these villages can’t grow, housing cannot be provided and there’s also

the ongoing environmental hazard of raw sewerage being discharged into drains and watercourses that has the potential of contaminating drinking waters,” he added. Meelick native Crowe said it was “regrettable that politicians and governments that served Co. Clare over the years didn’t deliver on this scheme heretofore. However, Minister O’Brien has been very proactively engaging with me on this issue and visited Broadford back in summer 2021 to see for himself how needed a scheme like this is”. Deputy Crowe continued, “I will be pushing to have this pilot scheme now made a multi-annual scheme – there are more villages in Clare that will need this level of investment. I want to also pay tribute to the Broadford Action Group led by PJ Mason and Cllr Bill Chambers and the late Brendan Daly in Cooraclare who have fought doggedly for this day – as well as the other elected representatives”. Confirmation of the funding means Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) is now in a position to contest next year’s General Election. The former TD stated that he would not go forward as a candidate if both areas were not included in the scheme. Speaking at Monday’s meeting

of Clare County Council, Mayor of Clare, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) hailed the “tremendous effort” of local authority staff including Pat Dowling, Carmel Kirby, Cyril Feeney and

John Gannon for their work on the initial application and the subsequent process plus the community groups in Broadford and Cooraclare.

Christmas gift for SVP

Pictured presenting his cheque to Saint Vincent de Paul in Ennis on Tuesday was Photographer James Treacy from Scarriff who raised €850 from the sale of his GAA calendars. Also pictured are Denis Carty SVP & Conall O Muirgheasa SVP

MEP for Clare Nollaig Shona agus athbhliain faoi mhaise daoibh go léir

Wishing you all a peaceful holiday season and a safe and healthy 2024.

If there is anything I can do for you in Clare or Europe, please reach out to me.

Contact Me

grace.osullivan@europarl.europa.eu

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Connolly's Dunphy guides winning IFA campaign

LAOIS beef and sheep farmer, Francie Gorman has been elected as the 17th President of the Irish Farmers Association and had a Clare man in his corner as part of his campaign, writes Páraic McMahon. Connolly’s Mark Dunphy managed the PR and communications for Francie’s campaign since September, helping him in his success over Limerick dairy farmer Martin Stapleton. “It was a privilege to work alongside Francie in managing his PR and Communications in recent months,” Mark said. He told The Clare Echo, “This election was fought in 26 counties and hundreds of branch areas across the country, so exposing Francie to as wide an audience as possible was key to winning the election. Local media played a key role in promoting his policies, while social media allowed him to engage directly with younger farmers in particular. Francie pulled votes from every corner of the country which is testament to his appeal as a candidate and underlines the importance of a proactive, consistent and broad communications plan in national elections like this”. Francie secured 16,699 votes to Martin’s 13,210 and will take over in January from outgoing president Tim Cullinan when his four-year tenure concluded. To be elected to the most influential position in Irish farming politics was a huge honour, Francie admitted. He said he would lead the organisation in a united fashion and stand up to unfair criticism of farming. Counting began at 8am in the Castleknock Hotel in Dublin with count staff tackling more than 20,000 postal votes and thousands more cast through the IFA branch structure. Both Francie and Martin took part in sixteen separate hustings

during the campaign and spoke to thousands of IFA members when trying to win their support. Four years ago, just under 23,000 IFA members cast ballots in the election, the turnout in 2023 was just shy of 30,000. Alice Doyle, from Co Wexford, was elected deputy president, the first woman to achieve that office in IFA history. He has been working in PR and communications for seventeen years, firstly with Dunphy PR and as of March 2020 with Dunphy Communications. He is the communications advisor of Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) and has held a similar role with former TD, Tony Killeen (FF), ex Senator Tony Mulcahy (FG) and successive Mayors of Clare and Limerick. Although he left his role as communications officer with Clare County Council three years ago, the local authority and Galway County Council now utilise his services as a communications consultant. Dunphy’s client base includes the Cliffs of Moher Experience, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Michael Cusack Centre, the Diocese of Killaloe, Foynes Flying Boat Museum plus the Shannon Region Conference and Sports Bureau. A former Head of News and Current Affairs with Clare FM, the Mary Immaculate College graduate also established Irish Weather Online and The Clare Herald, the latter of which was purchased by a company linked to the local radio station in 2016. In June 2015, Mark was added to the backroom of the Clare senior hurlers managed by Davy Fitzgerald amid growing pressure on the media relations of the Sixmilebridge native. He remained in this role until the departure of joint managers Donal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor following the 2019 season.

l Mark Dunphy and Francie Gorman

Clare Haven Services are ‘here to help’ victims CLARE Haven Services are aware of the harm coercive control causes to women and children throughout Clare. We are here to help, support and assist women and children who are being subjected to this egregious crime. The 24-hour helpline is 0656822435 for anyone needing to talk or who might have concerns for a woman they know. Anyone, from any walk of life can be an abuser. No matter who you are or who the perpetrator is, YOU WILL BE BELIEVED. Coercive control is the very heart of domestic abuse. It does not have to be physical to be abuse. It is a per-

sistent and deliberate pattern of behaviour by an abuser over a prolonged period of time designed to achieve obedience and create fear. It may include coercion, threats, stalking, intimidation, isolation, degradation and control. It may also include physical and/or sexual violence. Coercive control is all about making a woman and children's world smaller – trapping them, restricting their independence and freedom. A controlling partner may shut out her friends and family, control her movements, micro-manage what is eaten or worn, restrict access to money and society

– all the time chipping away at their confidence and destroying their self-respect. It is not their imagination. It is not their fault. It is not acceptable. It is the abuser viewing a woman and children as possessions that he owns to be controlled and influenced only by him. Control has a terrorising pattern. An abuser’s actions may vary but the eroding impact is the same: fear, gas-lighting, trepidation, isolation, self-doubt "chip--away" at the woman.

Visit https://clarehaven.ie/ for information and support.

News

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Support local this Christmas with a voucher for the Inn at Dromoland TREAT your loved ones with a gift voucher from the Inn at Dromoland this Christmas. Spoil your family and friends with a variety of voucher types to suit all tastes. Choose from: Monetary Vouchers, Afternoon Tea Vouchers, Leisure Club Membership Vouchers, Shannigans Gastro Pub Dining Vouchers, Accommodation Vouchers and much more. There is an option to suit every budget! Vouchers can be purchased on the hotel’s website www. t heinnatdromoland.ie, over the phone by calling 061-368161 or at hotel reception up until 9pm every night in the lead up to Christmas. Support Local this Christmas and consider a Gift from the Inn at Dromoland! Shannigans Gastro Pub are once again running their annual Festive Set Menu this December, which is available daily from 1-8pm, right up to Christmas Eve! Choose from a two and three course meal, with

both options also including complimentary mince pies and tea/coffee. This delicious menu combines some classic Christmas dishes with some of Clare’s best local ingredients. Book your table now by calling 061-368161 or email info@ t h e i n n at d r o m o l a n d . i e (Walk-ins are also welcome but subject to availability). The Inn at Dromoland have also launched a brand new Christmas Afternoon Tea offering this festive season. Priced at €35 per person and includes a glass of mulled wine, while there is also a children’s menu available for only €15pp. Christmas Afternoon Tea will be served every Thursday to Sunday, 12.30-2.30pm, from November 30th until January 7th. Served in the hotel’s newly refurbished Castlefergus Suite, this is the perfect delicious treat to enjoy in the coming weeks! Advance booking is required so make a reservation now by calling 061-368161 or email info@ theinnatdromoland.ie

lFESTIVE: Christmas Afternoon Tea at the Inn at Dromoland

Purchase a Gift Voucher from the Inn at Dromoland this Christmas!

#SupportLocal

Voucher Options include: Overnight Breaks, Afternoon Tea, Dinner at Shannigans, Leisure Membership, Monetary & more.

Buy Online - www.theinnatdromoland.ie Shannigans Festive Set Menu

Two Course - €30 Three Course - €35 (All meals are served with Tea/Coffee & Mince Pies)

Available Daily from 1-8pm

Christmas Afternoon Tea at The Inn at Dromoland Enjoy our brand new Christmas inspired Afternoon Tea menu for €35pp including a Glass of Mulled Wine. Children’s menu (€15pp). Available every Thursday to Sunday ~ 12:30-2:30pm from 30th November to 7th January.

To make a dining reservation call 061-368161. View our menus on www.theinnatdromoland.ie

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Ennis: Talk of the Town

Students to host Spend Christmas with Cantare SVP Fundraiser

TRANSITION Year students at Ennis Community College are hosting a fundraiser for St Vincent De Paul. Students are fundraising by running a clothes and toy drive in school to donate to the shop to generate funds while they are also hosting a school bake sale. Students are running the Saint Vincent de Paul shop today, Thursday December 14 with a 50% off sale when you spend €20 or more in-store. The theme of the fundraiser is 'Poverty is not sustainable’. "We are focusing on the reality that the high cost of living and high carbon footprint a lot of people have is due to the fact that not everyone can afford solar panels or electric

cars to live more sustainably,” said the students. "It is also a reality that living in poverty is not sustainable for anyone - for their mental, physical or general well being. We are fundraising for our Local Saint Vincent de Paul shop as they promote a more sustainable outlook by selling second hand products which lowers our Carbon Footprint but also generates funds to help those most in need. "Any help would be greatly appreciated to help those most in need this Holiday Season." People can also donate at https://www.svp.ie/ donate/. Please select 'Mid West Region' on the dropdown menu which says "Where does it go".

WHILE many of us are bustling about with our Christmas shopping lists and getting those Christmas jobs ticked off the list, the members of well-known Ennis choir, Cantare, are rehearsing in earnest for their upcoming event, Cantare Choir Christmas Concert taking place at 8.15pm on Wednesday, December 20th. In a change to previous years, this year’s concert will take place at SS Peter and Paul Cathedral in Ennis. Joining Cantare Choir and Orchestra on the night will be special guest, renowned Clarecastle-born tenor, Dean Power, along with Young Notes Choir from Quin, conducted by Úna Clune. Distinguished singer and West End mu-

sical theatre actress, Helen Catherine Ball, will also be making a very welcome appearance, and Shannon Hegarty will be providing

expert piano accompaniment. Cantare, as ever, will be under the highly skilled baton of choir director, Michael Hennessy.

Tickets are €20 and are available to buy at the Parish Office near the SS Peter and Paul Cathedral – 065 6824043.

lCAROLS: The Cantare Choir

Losing over five stone has given me the confidence to change my career

Tarah Lenihan had struggled with her weight for years but with the help of Slimming World, she has lost over five stone, completely transforming her world ALTHOUGH her weight had been an issue since being a teenager it was sitting on the edge of the bed getting ready to go to a wedding and realising, she couldn't get her tights on, with her self-confidence at an all-time low, she knew she needed to change her lifestyle. ‘’I was a size 18 but wearing size 20 because I couldn't bear to look at myself, I was unfit, miserable and completely ashamed of how I looked and of my inability to keep up with the rest of the family.” Over the years however, having

lTarah was unhappy with her weight

made multiple attempts at losing weight, Tarah would quickly lose interest and the weight piled back on. She found having to weigh and measure everything too restrictive, and previous weight loss attempts had always left her feeling hungry. She was also a busy working mother – she had a demanding job with long hours and a husband and young child at home. She hadn’t the time or the will to be making separate meals for herself. “I was desperate to make a real lifestyle change – not follow some quick-fix diet. I decided to give Slimming World a try. I remember eating a big dinner the evening before I went because I thought this is it now, I'll be on a diet from now on. How wrong I was.” Slimming World really isn't a diet it's a flexible eating plan that makes losing weight easy and enjoyable. There's no calorie counting or deprivation just delicious everyday foods. With slimming world, you eat to satisfy your appetite and by making some simple swaps you can still have all you family favourites. “I couldn’t believe that I could eat unlimited amounts of “free” food such as pasta, potatoes, fish and lean meats and still lose weight. Then something happened in my

first week at group to really boost my confidence – I lost 5lbs!” She made simple changes to the way she prepared and cooked using lean cuts of meats and using a low-calorie spray instead of oil and she was still able to enjoy her favourite family meals such as chicken curry, spaghetti Bolognese and big roast dinners. “The only difference is, they taste even better now,” says Tarah, and her family agrees. Every Sunday she would plan her meals for the week and would batch cook her favourite foods to have in the freezer. Tarah also feels that another contributor to her success is the support she gets at Slimming World each week. “I know I couldn’t have lost weight consistently without the weekly support, encouragement and un-

derstanding of my own Consultant and group. I’ve picked up lots of new healthy recipes from the other members too and hearing everyone’s struggles and achievements really inspires me”. Over the last 4 years I have achieved so much more than losing weight I have gone on to have 2 more babies while doing slimming world and have lost a total of 5 stone 4lbs reaching my personal target weight this year. She also dropped six dress sizes. “When I started my weight loss journey, I never imagined I’d be able to achieve all that I have. SomelTarah has times people I dropped six haven’t met in dress sizes a while hardly recognise me and the compliments I now get has given me a huge boost and leaves me brimming with pride. Losing the weight has made such a big difference, it’s literally changed my life. I’m healthier, happier and

have much more energy. And the best part is I can shop in all the regular stores with the confidence to know I can look good!” Losing the weight has also given Tarah the self-belief to change her life in other ways too. She is using her success to shape a new career. She left her previous job and has trained as a consultant for Slimming World, the UK and Ireland’s largest group-based weight loss organisation and will be relaunching a group in Treacy’s West County hotel on January 2nd. As a member, the confidence and happiness Tarah has gained since joining Slimming World is undeniable. Now as a consultant, using her own personal experience, she hopes to create a warm, friendly group to give her members a supportive atmosphere where they will have the encouragement to share their own experiences. “As someone who has lost weight myself, I know the challenges people can face, which is why, along with the group, I will be there to support every one of my members all the way to achieving their chosen target weight”. Tarah’s groups will be held in Treacy’s West County Hotel on Tuesdays at 5.30pm and 7pm. Call/ text Tarah on 0862715834 for info.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon

SHANNON NEWS in association with

Shannon Airport expected to have busiest Christmas in 14 years

HANNON Airport is forecasting its busiest Christmas in 14 years with passenger numbers to soar over the festive season, writes Páraic McMahon. Over 121,000 passengers are expected to be welcomed at Shannon Airport during the Christmas holiday period, an 18% surge when compared to the same period last year which saw 75,000 travelling through the airport. This year will be the busiest Christmas period at the airport in 14 years, with the highest number of passengers to travel through the airport at Christmas since 2009. The rise in passenger numbers reflects the growing popularity of Shannon Airport’s services. CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine said, “Witnessing passengers return home to loved ones or embark on journeys to reunite with family abroad is truly heartening. Ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey for everyone during this festive season remains

one of our top priorities. Our team is on hand to welcome all those travelling through the airport while ensuring that Shannon Airport provides an easy and enjoyable experience this festive season. “As we look towards the new year, we are delighted to offer 35 routes from Shannon Airport for 2024, among these our new daily seasonal service to New York - JFK with Delta Air Lines starting in May ‘24. On behalf of all our team, I would like to wish all our passengers a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year,” she added. Airport staff are fully prepared to extend the renowned warm Shannon welcome to visitors from across the globe during the Christmas season. The airport terminal building has been adorned with festive decorations, including a magnificent 12-foot Christmas tree in the airport arrivals hall and a life-size Santa sleigh for visitors to enjoy and capture memorable moments.

lHOLIDAY READY: 121,000 passengers are expected this Christmas

Fergus forced diversion of two flights to Shannon

SHANNON Airport accommodated two diverted flights during Storm Fergus, writes Páraic McMahon. On Sunday, two flights originally due to land at Cork Airport had to subsequently divert to Shannon as a result of severe weather conditions. The first flight to reroute to Shannon was KLM flight 1085 from Amsterdam which landed safely at 2.11pm. The flight later resumed its journey to Amsterdam, departing from Shannon Air-

port at 7.22pm. A second flight, FR-905 from Stansted, diverted to Shannon and landed safely at 3.00pm. The flight resumed its journey to Stansted at 4.38pm Meanwhille, a spokesperson for the Shannon Airport Group confirmed that a transatlantic flight, Lufthansa Flight LH-470, travelling from Frankfurt, Germany, to Toronto, Canada, diverted to Shannon Airport on Saturday afternoon having declared a medical emer-

gency. Shannon Airport’s Fire and Rescue Service was placed on standby ahead of the flight’s arrival as a precaution. The aircraft, a 787-900 Dreamliner, landed safely at 4.25pm. The passenger was assessed at the airport before being transferred by ambulance to University Hospital Limerick. The flight later resumed its journey, departing Shannon shortly after 7.00pm.

lSAFETY FIRST: Flight FR-905 from Stansted diverted to Shannon

Mid-West Simon unveil social grocery plans MID West Simon proudly announces the initiation of an ambitious and much-needed project: the establishment of a social grocery in Ennis. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to address the critical issues of food poverty and the often-overlooked aspect of social isolation linked to it. Last year we gave out just under 25,000 food parcels. This year that will double. And the closer to Christmas, the greater the demand.These numbers starkly illustrate the pervasive nature of food insecurity in our community and underscore the necessity for innovative and sustainable solutions like the social grocery. The planned social grocery in Ennis is envisioned as a beacon of hope and support. The journey towards realizing this ambitious project begins with the inspiring dedication of June Curtin and her team at Snamhai Sasta. Their extraordinary challenge of

Notes

swimming three times daily from the 1st to the 21st of December is a testament to the power of community spirit and the willingness to make a difference in the lives of those in need. While we deeply appreciate the significant start provided by June and her team, we recognize the enormity of the task ahead. The establishment of the social grocery is a complex and sizeable endeavor that requires extensive

KILMIHIL WAGON EVENT THE annual Light up your Wagon event will be held in Kilmihil on Saturday, December 16 at 5pm (registration from 4pm). Prizes for • Best Lit up Tractor - Sponsored by Circle K • Best Lit up Truck - Sponsored by Kilmihil Hardware • Best Lit up Vintage Vehichle Sponsored by

resources, strategic planning, and the collective support of our community. We call upon individuals, businesses, and organizations to join us in this venture. Your support, whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, is crucial. Every contribution, no matter the size, brings us closer to turning this vision into a reality. Visit www.midwestsimon. ie or contact us at Gearoid. quilty@mwsimon.ie.

Christmas can be a challenging time for family members, relatives and friends who have been bereaved by suicide. Clare Suicide Bereavement support are available to offer support to Individuals, Families and Communities over the Christmas season. Support and Healing in a Caring and Confidential Environment

Powers Pharmacy Best Dressed Driver Sponsored by Aran Woollen Mills Plus 3 lucky Dip prizes of €50 upon registration (sponsors Kilmihil Centra, Ryans Garage & Glenmore Crash Repairs). This year’s proceeds will go to the development of Gym in our GAA grounds and to Milford Hospice. •

Call 0873698315 or 0860565373 for more information or Visit claresuicidebereavementsupport.com

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Gort & North Clare

Development of 62 older people homes rejected amid concerns by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN BORD Pleanála has upheld a decision to reject construction of a residential development for 62 homes in Gort. Mount Fuji Ltd’s appeal to the planning authority was rejected. They had hoped to demolish a vacant building and begin the process of building an older people’s housing estate. As part of the project, Mount Fuji Ltd planned to demolish a ruined home known as ‘Flowervale’ and other buildings on a 1.17ha site between Station Road and Gort River Walk. Plans for 62 residential developments for older people at Lavally, Gort had been lodged. The new estate would have comprised 52 apartments and 10 houses, along with a tea room, in a development specifically aimed at older people. The estate plans included 34 car parking spaces, as well as 59 bicycle spaces. County planners in Galway refused planning permission in March 2022, finding that

it fell short of standards for a town centre and residential development. This prompted Mount Fuji to appeal to An Bord Pleanála. Officials in An Bord Pleanála agreed with the County Council’s original judgement to refuse planning for the development, sharing the view of the local authority staff on the quality of scheme from a design and layout perspective. In refusing planning permission, the board raised a number of concerns about the design of the estate, the public open space and car parking in particular. The decision said that the estate’s relationship with the river walk and “lack of animation” of the street integrated poorly, and that the communal open space lacked amenity. Insufficient car parking is included in the plans according to An Bord Pleanála who warned that the layout of the parking could create a traffic hazard. Questions on whether the existing sewerage infrastructure could serve the new estate were also flagged.

lThe proposed site at Lavally, Gort

Inland Fisheries Ireland prosecuting Uisce Éireann in connection with 2,000 fish kill in North Clare

lAtlantic salmon

INLAND Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is prosecuting Uisce Éireann in connection with a fish kill that occurred in North Clare in May of this year, writes Gordon Deegan. At Ennis District Court, a solicitor for IFI, Joe Devereux appeared in connection with IFI issuing two summons to Uisce Éireann and stated that “this is the first time that they are before the court”. In the case, Uisce Éireann is accused of permitting deleterious matter to go into a waterway at Calluragh East, Ennistymon contrary to Section 171 of the Fisheries Act on May 2nd and May 18th of this year. In a statement on May 9th, IFI stated that it was investigating a serious incident near Ennistymon where up to 2,000 fish died which had occurred over the previous week. The fish kill occurred on the Ballymacraven River and spread for 2.6km in length where the Ballymacravan River meets the Inagh River. Species of fish discovered

dead include a large number of eel, along with salmon, trout, rudd and flounder of all ages. IFI first became aware of an ecological issue when a member of the public informed staff of a rusty red colour on the river. In court after reading the summons, Judge Alec Gabbett “the allegation is this is polluting our waterway and one would assume an outfall from a sewage treatment plant which isn’t meeting a certain standard?”. Judge Gabbett said that disclosure has been provided to Uisce Eireann “and would one assume to put it back for a plea or a date?” Mr Devereux said "yes judge”. Mr Devereux said that the Uisce Éireann solicitor was seeking a date towards the end of January, commenting "this is I presume an opportunity for them to go through the disclosure fully”. Judge Gabbett commented, "We don’t have enough treatment plants in some places in

Clare and we need them badly and when they are there and they are allegedly not working it concerns me even more so”. In July, Uisce Éireann said that it had undertaken changes to the management of Ennistymon Wastewater Treatment Plant as a precautionary measure. The plant serves a population of almost 7,000 people in the wider North Clare area including Ennistymon, Lahinch, Kilfenora, Doolin, Fanore and Ballyvaughan. A €4.5m upgrade of the Ennistymon Water Treatment Plant is currently at construction stage and is expected to be completed by the end of the year. In July, Uisce Éireann said it remains committed to safeguarding public health and protecting the environment to enable communities to thrive by continuously upgrading and developing critical infrastructure in the support of sustainable development. Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to January 12th to Ennis District Court.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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A Merry Lidl Christmas in Ennistymon Lidl’s annual festive fundraiser Trolley Dash has raised more than €300,000 in support of their charity partner Jigsaw, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health. In County Clare, Lidl customers raised €4,000 for the charity. Pictured are John Dunworth, Manager Lidl Gort Road Ennis with Trolley Dash Winner winner Debbie Harrington and her daughter Shauna from Ennistymon, who managed to grab over €339 worth of goodies

Photo by Eamon Ward

Ennistymon film screening to raise funds for Gaza

A FILM screening in Ennistymon will double up as a fundraising event for the victims of the ongoing war in Gaza, writes Páraic McMahon. Doors open at 7:30pm this Friday (December 15th) at the Courthouse in Ennistymon for the film screening of ‘GAZA’. The documentary which was first released in 2019 will begin at 8pm, it is directed and produced by two Irish men Andrew McConnell and Garry Keane. An insight into the resilience of the people of Gaza is highlighted in the film which shows how they have lived with hope against

the rubble of perennial conflict. A young cellist, a young rapper, a theatre director, a fisherman and his son, a taxi driver and an ambulance driver all share their stories, daily experiences and their hopes for the future. Wildcard Distribution, who own the screening rights to the film, have kindly waived the license fees for these charity screenings and welcome people to arrange more screenings. Admission will be free, donations are welcome on the night which will go directly to Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) and a local Palestinian charity.

News

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Advertorial

Little Kickers comes to Clare

B R I L L IA N T way to introduce younger children to sport – and to soccer in particular – has come to Clare in the form of Little Kickers classes, specialising in coaching pre-school soccer. Led by Alison Crowley and her husband Denis for the last 15 years, the pair are passionate about educating young children from ages two and up to

develop their skills and coordination. Classes will take place on Saturdays at St Joseph’s Doora-Barefield GAA and on Sundays at the Holy Family in Ennis, and are split into three group to tailor for different ages; Little Kicks (18 months to 2.5 years); Junior Kickers (2.5-3.5 years); and Mighty Kickers (3.5-5th birthday). There are two core elements in every session. The first is ‘play not push’

coaching which means teaching football in a fun, pressure-free environment to give children a positive introduction to sport. Secondly, the Little Kickers coaches believe that football can be educational when coached in the right way as it can stimulate imagination and aid early development skills, such as learning colours and numbers, following instructions and playing as a team.

Little Kickers launched in Ireland in 2007 and it is part of a network of 2,500 coaches and 300 franchises in 32 countries, making it the world’s biggest and most successful pre-school football academy. The Clare classes are being facilitated by Alison. Alison & Denis have four children who all attended and loved Little Kicker classes. Some 15 years later and life has come full circle for older two boys James & Aidan, who are now part of the coaching team while her daughter Grace is starting to help out. Her youngest boy Denis “can’t wait to get coaching once he’s old enough” she adds. Alison is also on the lookout for a suitable venue in Shannon and hopes to have classes running

also early next year. Keep up to date on Social Media - Faceb o o k Little Kickers Clare / Inst ag r am Littlekickersireno7. Participants can be enrolled online at www.littlekickers. ie. Alison can be contacted on 087-7076104 or by email on acrowley@littlekickers.ie. PICTURED: (left) Alison and her daughter Grace and (below) her own four little kickers James, Aidan, Grace and Denis

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14,2023

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Advertorial

Silver Oak introduces North Indian cuisine to County Clare

HE Silver Oak Restaurant is inviting the people of Clare to visit its newest branch in Ennis. Established at Woodquay this year, the popular Indian restaurant’s Ennis eatery is the fourth in its portfolio. The Silver Oak Indian restaurant is a family-owned business founded in 2007 by Mr. Raj Bhatt and Nathi Nautiyal, who in 2000 moved to Ireland from a small town called Mussoorie (Uttarakhand) in North India. Sharing a passion for food, Mr Raj worked as a head chef across various chains of restaurants in Gharwal (North-Western region in India) and Mumbai for more than 20 years. Its owners say they are “delighted” to have added Mr. Chandar Dev to the Silver Oak Ennis, who was the head chef in Bollywood Temple in Shannon. His vast experience in the Indian food industry is showcased through The Silver Oak’s delicious menu. “Be-

yond his knowledge of Indian food, it is the passion he brings to every dish he serves that makes him one of the finest Indian chefs in Ireland.” Jatin Bhatt, son of owner Raj Bhatt, is an integral team member known for his extensive culinary expertise in North Indian cuisines cultivated by working across various regions in India. Appointed as the head chef at Mullingar Silver Oak, Jatin brings over a decade of dedication to the art of Indian cuisine and hospitality. His distinguished career highlights a proven ability to maintain impeccable quality and hygiene protocols. At Silver Oak Ennis, the family-driven ethos shines through with the owner’s daughter Priyanka, and sonin-law Pankaj Nautiyal overseeing operations. Their commitment to delivering topnotch service impeccably caters to customer expectations and business requirements. The Silver Oak has established a robust presence

l The Silver Oak Restaurant in Ennis offers diners an authentic, traditional Northern style Indian Cuisine using rich, flavoursome spices. The family-operated restaurant has added Ennis to its chain of four restaurants in Ireland

with four branches across Ireland, commencing in Mullingar in 2007, followed by expansions to Athlone in 2014, Newbridge in 2022, and most recently, their newest branch in Ennis in 2023. The Silver Oak experience At The Silver Oak, diners can get to know and appreciate Indian cuisine at its best and enjoy all the rich flavours and aromas that are on offer. “Our priority for the customers is to keep them satisfied with the authentic quality of the food that we provide. Our goal is to keep customers happy with the service that we provide outside and inside the kitchen.” Authentic Indian Food The Silver Oak offers an authentic, traditional Northern style Indian Cuisine in which the team uses rich, flavourful spices. “We have a diverse variety of taste as we offer a plenty of options for our customers in our menu. “We thrive on making our customers satisfied with our

food. Our team have wealth of knowledge and experience from the hospitality industry in India.” Menu The Silver Oak menus offer the perfect blend of traditional and modern Indian cuisine. Boasting over 100 starters, main courses and sides giving customers an amazing selection of dishes. Delicious experiences Hand-ground spices and traditional recipes spell magic on one’s palate as they blend culinary innovations with traditional methods. Catering to varying palates, Silver Oak features an array of menus including the Wine Paired Menu and the Takeaway Menu. The menu bursts with recipes seasoned with local spices, dry powders accompanied with flavored chutneys and indulgent desserts. OPENING HOURS Monday to Sunday: 5pm10:30pm. Making a reservation is easy. Call Silver Oak Ennis on 065 686 8111.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Christmas in Clare

Gardaí deliver over 300 Christmas dinners to elderly across Shannon

MORE than 300 Christmas dinners were delivered by Gardaí in Shannon as part of their annual festive initiative. Gardaí in Shannon teamed up with the Shannon College of Hotel Management and local businesses to deliver over 300 Christmas dinners to senior citizens in Shannon, Sixmilebridge, Newmarket-on-Fergus and Cratloe. Shannon College of Hotel Management cooked the meals over three days when local Gardaí were on hand to deliver them to very appreciative senior citizens. Sergeant Seamus Mulligan told The Clare Echo, “It’s that time of year again when the party season is beginning to get into full swing and Christmas cheer is all around us. Gardaí in Shannon are trying to bring some of that cheer into the homes of many of the senior citizens living in the Shannon area”. He explained, “This initiative began during Covid 19 when the Shannon Garda Senior Citizens Christmas Party had to be postponed due to successive lockdowns.

l Sergeant Seamus Mulligan, Bridget Curran and Siobhan Ryan

Following Covid and the resumption of the parties it was decided to continue with the meal deliveries due to its popularity. Gardaí are delighted to be involved in

this community effort which would not be possible without the many contributors, Shannon College of Hotel Management, TY students, local national schools,

Photo by Joe Buckley

Shannon Municipal District and many others”.

Secret Santa for people living in Direct Provision CLARE Solidarity Network (CSN) are calling for support from people living in Clare for their Christmas Present Collection for Adults living in Direct Provision in County Clare. The network are asking members of the public who can spare a few euros this Christmas to purchase gifts suitable for adults, both women and men, with a maximum value of €15 each. The reason these gifts are for adults is that Santa has been already been working on logistics with his elves to make sure all children in these centres will receive their own presents. Gifts can be dropped off in Clare PPN’s offices in Clonroad Business Park, Ennis on Friday the 15th and Saturday the 16th December between 11am and 4pm each day. All gifts should be donated unwrapped. CSN suggests that nice socks, stylish jocks, shaving kits, personal hygiene sets, sweets, biscuits, chocolates, selection boxes, hats and scarves, aftershave, body lotions, perfume or other similar items including vouchers would be wel-

come. All presents should be donated unwrapped. The group would also welcome donations of wrapping paper, sellotape and pre-written cards particularly from children who might like to draw or write a message of welcome on them. For more information on giving a gift please call 087 6175587. The gifts will be delivered by CSN volunteers to direct provision and emergency accommodation around Clare in Christmas week. Noirin Lynch of CSN said, “Thousands of us in Clare have been away from home at Christmas and we know what it’s like. We are asking people to help us offer a small gift - to the adults who have come to Clare seeking refugee status. While we know people come from many different religions and traditions, we are also aware they are long way from home and many are living in accommodation centres and hotels where they will miss the personal comforts and cosiness of home and these gifts will be a nice way to include them in our traditional winter celebration.”

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

Christmas in Clare

Communion Dress

Appointment

From December 28th

OPEN FOR BOOKINGS 65 O’Connell St. Ennis Call 065 684 8612 Or Book Online

www.modsandminis.ie

Thursday, Dec 7, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Christmas in Clare

l Jordan Perez from Sixmilebridge switching on the Christmas lights at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park alongside his mother Sinead, stepfather Anton, siblings Ryan, Zoe, Faith and Ezra, and his grandmother Vera, and Stephen Hanley, General Manager of Clare Tourism East Photo by Paul Corey

Jordan lights up Bunratty A CLARE teenager who has just returned home from undergoing extensive treatment at Temple Street Hospital fulfilled a lifelong dream of switching on the Christmas lights at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this evening. Jordan Perez (15) from Sixmilebridge is bravely battling Muscular Dystrophy and was invited to be guest of honour at the annual ceremony following his nine-month hospital treatment. After such an emotional, stressful year being apart from our family for so long and Jordan being so unwell, today is the perfect way to end the year,” commented Jordan’s mother, Sinead Perez. She added, “Lighting the lights in Bunratty is an amazing honour. It's a chance to light the way forward leaving all the stress and anxiety of the year behind. His journey ends on a high note

surrounded by his family and friends back home where he belongs." Stephen Hanley, General Manager of Clare Tourism East said, “Visiting Bunratty at Christmas has always been a highlight of the festive season for Jordan and this year we wanted to make his visit an unforgettable one by inviting him and his family to light up the folk park and officially launch our festive offering.” “We are also delighted to use this occasion to raise awareness of SMA Ireland: Spinal Muscular Atrophy Ireland Foundation, which was established in 2019 to provide a collective voice for Irish adults and children in with Spinal Muscular Atrophy,” added Mr. Hanley. “Visitor attraction staff also hosted a separate fundraiser this week to raise money for the Children's Ark Paediatric unit at UHL, a service that Jordan

also regularly benefits from. €910 was raised through the staff Christmas jumper initiative on Wednesday.” The Folk Park has been transformed into a winter wonderland this festive season with thousands of people expected through the gates of the popular 26-acre visitor attraction. After a three-year absence, Santa Claus has exclusively made a welcome return to his grotto on the Village Street. Visitors also have full access to Bunratty Folk Park Trail of Lights Experience and can enjoy Puppet & Magic Shows and Traditional Christmas Tales with Bunratty’s resident Seanchaí, drop into the Festive Themed Shops, and take a ride on the Polar Express or one of the traditional carousels. Visit www.bunrattycastle.ie for more.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

Christmas in Clare

Still time to enter ‘Through the eyes of a Child’ Wonder Photo competition ‘THROUGH the eyes of a child’ is giving children across Clare the chance to win some excellent prizes. With prizes on offer for first, second and third place, including an Instax Camera, canvas prints and vouchers for Wonder Photo Shop Ennis, there is plenty to get excited about. All you have to do is send the photo taken by your child to editor@clareecho. ie with the subject line ‘Wonder Photo competition’ and your child’s photo attached along with their name, age, location and school. Fresh from bringing a smile to the nation with his appearance on The Toy Show, Sheamie Garrihy paid a visit to the offices of The Clare Echo and Wonder Photo Shop to get involved and he was presented with his own Instax Camera. Seven year old Sheamie will also be giving a helping hand to determine the winners. He knows a thing a do about winning competitions with this publication after he was crowned the inaugural winner of The Clare Echo’s virtual talent show in 2020.

Winners will be announced on December 21st. Scan below for a full range of Instax products from Wonder Photo Shop Ennis.

l (above) entries from Anna Madigan, aged 12 from Sixmilebridge and St Finnachtas NS, ‘Mitsy the Cat’ and ‘Ireland vs Netherlands at the Aviva’

l (above) an entry from Danny McMahon, aged 10 and in 5th class at Kilmurry McMahon National School, ‘My Winter Wonderland, My Granny Kathleen Corbett’; (below) Sheamie Garrihy Late Late Toy Show fame, and (bottom) his entry of his sister and his hens at home in Kilfenora

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

GREEN CLARE

People in Clare are being urged to think ‘circular’ this Christmas

THIS Christmas, Clare County Council is urging people to support a sustainable Christmas by preventing waste, reusing the things that we have, and recycling what we or others can no longer use or reuse. Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer, explains: “Christmas time is a time of year that generates a lot of waste. We all need to move away from the linear model of making, using, consuming, and disposing of our stuff and move to a circular model of keeping things in use for as long as possible through reusing, repairing, upcycling, and sharing, and recycling more. By supporting circular living we reduce our carbon footprint and help preserve our earth’s limited natural resources.” Ms Foley added: “Whatever cannot be shared, reused or upcycled, much of this can be recycled. When uncertain what can or cannot be recycled this Christmas, make sure to visit www.mywaste.ie. Recyclables can also be brought to one of County Clare’s five recycling centres and transfer stations. A carload of recyclable waste brought to Ballyduffbeg, Lisdeen, Shannon, Scariff and Ennis costs as little as €5.00. Our recycling centre locations, opening times and recycling costs are available at www.clarecoco.ie.” “Householders can also bring bottles and aluminium cans to our bring banks located around Clare for free,” explains Pat Baker, Executive Engineer, Waste Management Team. “It is important to remember to keep these bring bank sites clean and tidy by depositing only bottles and aluminium cans into the banks during the festive season. Boxes, bags or other materials used to carry recyclables should not be disposed of at the bring bank. Bring banks are serviced regularly. However, there is huge demand on sites at this time of l Get creative

year. Where bring banks are full, alternative sites should be used. We thank people for their co-operation.” Maria Carey, Executive Engineer, Waste Enforcement Team, added: “While out and about over Christmas enjoying County Clare’s amazing amenities, we are also urging people to always Leave no Trace and, when it comes to litter, either Bin It or Bring It Home. If there is a problem with littering or illegal dumping in your community our Waste Enforcement Team can be contacted at 1800606706 / 065-6846331 or via email at enviroff@clarecoco.ie.” Top tips on how we can all support the global goals and have a sustainable and circular Christmas: l Buy locally produced gifts, you’re supporting local jobs and helping the environment by reducing transport miles. l Buy experiences rather than gifts! Visit www.visitclare.ie for lots of ideas from around the county. l Purchase presents second hand from charity shops. This supports worthwhile charities while also reducing consumption. l Shop for locally produced food or fair trade labels. Challenge yourself to make dinner entirely from locally produced produce. l Shop locally in your local town or village. Not only does this benefit our environment it also supports local businesses and local jobs that help sustain our local communities. l Other great gift ideas include upcycled Christmas tree decorations, native tree vouchers, solar powered radios and torches, energy saving light bulbs. l Avoid gifts which require batteries, or purchase a battery recharger and rechargeable batteries. Remember batteries and all

waste electrical equipment can be recycled for free – https://erp-recycling.org/ie/ l Try alternative wrappings like newspaper, old material and string or ribbon that can be reused. Or consider gift bags as they can be reused over and over. l Bring your own reusable bags when shopping. Say no to excess packaging. l Make a shopping list so you’re not tempted to buy things you don’t really need or want. l At least 30% of all the food we buy is thrown out! Visit www.stopfoodwaste.ie for inspiring ideas on how to shop smarter for

food over the festive period as well as recipes for what to do with leftovers. l Remember to use your dry recyclable and food waste collection provided by your waste collector. If unsure what can be recycled visit www.mywaste.ie. To prevent contamination in the household recycling bin it is important to ensure that items being placed in this bin are clean, dry and loose. You can also use your local bottle bank and/ or recycling centre. Our recycling centre locations, opening times and recycling costs are available at www.clarecoco.ie

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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GREEN CLARE

‘Eco-criminals’ criticised for dumping

LACK of respect for the law and the locality has highlighted by representatives in the Ennis Municipal District when discussing illegal dumping, writes Páraic McMahon. Barefield based, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) appealed to the Ennis MD to clean up “up a pile of rubbish left in the park sitting against the wall close to the building of David English’s business. This is County Council property and unfortunately, we have residents that don’t respect their neighbours or neighbourhood”. Acting senior executive engineer in the Ennis MD, Paddy Tiernan stated, “Ennis MD are aware of an issue of illegal dumping within this estate and will arrange for the rubbish to be removed in the coming days”. Speaking at the December meeting, Cllr Norton on the

back of the Drumbiggle dumping outlined, “Illegal dumping is something we talk about on numerous occasions. It is extremely frustrating for people to see illegal dumping especially within a housing estate, it is so disrespectful to the people living in the area and that look after their own rubbish”. She added, “It shouldn’t be up to staff of the Ennis MD to go around and pick up illegal rubbish, I acknowledge the work that our outdoor staff do, it must be extremely frustrating for them but they do a great job and it is a shame that people out there have no respect for their neighbours”. Seconding the proposal, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) voiced his disappointment at people showing an obvious lack of respect to the area in which they live. “We talked earlier about people thinking they are above the

law on the impact and cost they put above society, these people have no respect for the law, they are eco-criminals and disrespectful citizens. It is putting the cost back onto all of us. It is continuously going back to the Council and all of us to pay for these few, this costs us all in the end,” stated Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Pat Daly (FF) said to throw rubbish in a place where people are living “is a serious health and safety issue”. Work of the outdoor crew and Norah Murphy in environmental patrol was praised by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG). Concluding the debate, Cllr Norton commented, “During the Christmas season there tends to be a lot more empty boxes and more packaging, consider their neighbours when they are removing them to use proper facilities and use the bins”.

lIllegal dumping

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Lifestyle & Comment

Navigating safely through the holidays

AS WE gear up for the holiday season, road safety becomes a top priority to ensure everyone gets home to County Clare safely this Christmas. Here are some crucial tips to keep in mind during this festive period, brought to you by Gort Road Tyres: WEATHER AWARENESS: Stay informed about weather forecasts, especially in Ireland’s unpredictable winter conditions. Adjust driving habits to accommodate rain, snow, or icy roads.

AVOID DRINKING AND DRIVING: Never consume alcohol before getting behind the wheel. Plan ahead with alternatives like designated drivers, public transportation, or rideshare services. VEHICLE MAINTENANCE: Regularly check tire pressure, ensuring proper tread depth for better traction.

Verify that all lights, including brake lights and indicators, are functioning correctly. Examine brakes to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimal safety. COMBAT FATIGUE: Prioritize well-rested drivers for long journeys to combat fatigue. Schedule breaks during extended trips to stay alert and focused.

LAW ADHERENCE: Strictly adhere to speed limits, seatbelt usage, and other traffic regulations. Be aware of increased Garda presence during the festive season. By incorporating these practical tips into your holiday travel plans, you contribute to a safer road environment for yourself and others. This Christmas, let responsible driving be the gift that ensures everyone arrives home safely to enjoy the warmth and joy of the season.

A rewarding day at Clare Youth Service

Clare Youth Service has marked the UN International Day of Volunteering with the presentation of Volunteer Recognition Pins to six longstanding youth leaders across the county. The Volunteer Recognition Pin is awarded across the country to Youth Work Ireland Volunteers who give their time and energy to help and support young people by

running youth clubs and schemes, supporting programmes, supporting organisations as advisers, fundraisers and as members of local and national boards. The Ten-Year awards were presented to Nathalie Ei Baba of Fishbowl in Scarriff and Phil Miesle of Coder Dojo in Ennis. The five-Year Awards were received by Maeve

l Avoid alcohol before driving

Keavey of Mullagh Youth Club, Ultan Mulqueen, TFC Youth Club and Dympna Dillon and Deirdre Neylon from Kilmaley Youth Club. Pictured enjoying the awards were (above left) Jennifer Smyth, Gerry Murphy, Ultan Mulqueen and Catherine Corrigan, along with (above right) Laura Painter and Subadra O’Sullivan.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Maple Glazed Ham

Merry Christmas from

some of the salt. The following day pour out the water and refill with fresh water to cover. Add the spices and bay. Bring to the boil, then turn down and simmer for around 1 hr 50 mins, topping up the water level with boiling water, if necessary. Scoop off any scum that rises to the top every now and then. 2) Leave the ham cool in the liquid overnight or for 2-3 hours (this will keep the moisture in the ham. Carefully pour the liquid away (I like to keep it for making soup), then let the ham cool a little while you heat the oven to 190C/. Lift the ham into a large roasting tin, then cut away the skin leaving behind an even layer of fat. Score the fat all over in a crissCHRISTMAS Ham often turns out dry and underwhelming but these tips and recipes should create a show stopping ham to enjoy Christmas days and the days after. It is best to start the process a couple of days ahead to soak the ham and cook it the day before with just the glazing done on Christmas Day.

You’ll need n 1 whole leg of ham, smoked or unsmoked, around 5kg weight bonein n 1 cinnamon stick

n 1 tsp peppercorns n 1 tsp coriander seeds n 2 bay leaves n About 25 whole cloves

For the glaze n 200ml maple syrup n 2 tbsp coarse-grain

mustard n 2 tbsp Worcestershire

sauce

n 2 tbsp soy sauce n 200g brown sugar

Method

1) Put the ham in a very large pan and cover with cold water. Leave to soak overnight, this will remove

Your Local Garden Centre, filling and refilling your pots all year round! 086 340 5236 Orchard Lane, Hermitage, Ennis

Merry Christmas

Top tips for December gardening Buying your Christmas tree checklist CHECK the size of your room. The skirts can be big. How wide can you let it come out in the room? Check the height of the room also. We all love a nice tree but sometimes when we get them home it’s too tall. Ensure it’s a non-shedding tree. The best way to have a cut tree in your home is in a Christmas tree stand that can hold water. Remember to keep a check on the water level each week and

Lifestyle & Comment

top up as required. Keep your tree away from the open fire or stove. Keep away from the radiator or turn it off.

Cut evergreen foliage and branches to add a festive feeling to your pots or create a beautiful garland. Eucalyptus and conifers also make a lovely wreath. Plants to add to the festive feeling at Christmas time around the home. Poinstetta are a beautiful large red plant and Christmas Cactus is another lovely indoor plant. Enjoy decorating inside and out this festive season Wishing you all a Merry Christmas.

cross pattern, then stud cloves all over the ham. Can now be chilled for up to 2 days. 3) To glaze the ham cover with the brown sugar and place in the oven for 10-15 minutes. This will act as a base layer for the glaze to stick to. Mix the rest of the glaze ingredients in a jug. Pour half over the fat, roast for 15 mins, then pour over the rest and return to the oven for another 35 mins, basting with the pan juices 3-4 times as it bakes. Turn the pan around a few times during cooking so the fat colours evenly. Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 15 mins before carving. Can be roasted on the day or up to 2 days ahead and served cold.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Columnists

Being authentic in leadership & life

LET me ask you a question, if I may. I’m curious to understand, what the word vulnerability brings to mind for you? Make a mental note of the words that come to mind. Then check to see whether any of those words are associated with being weak, perhaps, or in a fearful, uncomfortable position mentally or emotionally? Dr Brené Brown, a research professor at the University of Houston and author of “Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead,” emphasizes that vulnerability is not weakness but rather “our most accurate measurement of courage”. In 2010, she delivered a TED Talk called ‘The Power of Vulnerability’, which went on to become one of the most watched TED Talks of all time, amassing views currently at over 64 million. Dr Brown had spent over 6 years carrying out qualitative research and was keen to share her findings with us. She talks about how the fear of disconnection that people can harbour links to feeling ashamed. The kind of shame she suggests, is linked to a sense of being ‘not good enough’. She suggests that this is underpinned by another more buried aspect of the psyche and that is a deep sense of vulnerability. Being afraid to ‘just be ourselves’. As she progressed with her research, she saw on the other hand, evidence showed that those among us who live with a sense of worthiness, feel deserving of love and connection. She calls these people the ‘wholehearted’. Through her research she found that the common traits of the wholehearted include courage, compassion, creativity, treating themselves and others kindly. Ultimately she found that they had a sense of connection, meaning and purpose

through expressing their authentic selves in all areas of life. There is a line in her talk where she goes on to say that these people “Ultimately believed that what made them vulnerable, made them beautiful.” But what happens with this sense of vulnerability for those other than the ‘wholehearted’? She suggests that a lot of people ‘numb’ it out, pointing out that currently in the U.S. exists the most medicated, obese, in debt and addicted cohort in history. Ever! When we numb our sense of vulnerability such as grief, shame, fear, disappointment, unfortunately we also numb the joy, the happiness and the gratitude. It is impossible to numb just the negative feelings, because when we numb those, we numb everything else. And where does that leave us? Feeling continually miserable and lost, thus reaching for whatever it is that we do to numb out the unpleasant feelings in the first place, and so the cycle continues. To let ourselves be deeply seen and to love with our whole hearts even though there’s no guarantee, is painful and difficult for most of us. Instead, Dr Brown asks, what if we could experience the sheer exhilaration of being alive in those moments? Essentially, her message is that when we know deeply that we are ‘enough’, then we are kinder and gentler to the people around us, and we are kinder and gentler to ourselves. Dr Brown’s work on vulnerability, resilience and embracing change has been practiced in industry by such giants as Microsoft, Facebook, Zappos and the US military. Where to start in becoming our most authentic selves? Perhaps if you hear the voice of self-doubt crank up in your head today, you could try saying to yourself instead, “Thank you, but not today”. “Today, I am choosing to be kind to my-

self, and others. Instead of scaring myself with my thoughts, I will quietly remind myself, that I am enough”. Any shift in consciousness within a team, organisation, family unit or relationship of any kind, must firstly begin within each one of us. The good news is that we are each capable of change, with enough willingness and a sprinkling of hope. Contact me at denise@obrienlearningsolutions to talk about how to introduce a vulnerability-based leadership programme within your organisation.

lVULNERABILITY: Brené Brown

Look after your heart this Christmas season

ACCORDING to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death globally, taking an estimated 17.9 million lives each year. More than four out of five CVD deaths are due to heart attacks and strokes and one third of these deaths occur in people under 70 years of age. Let’s look what we can actually do in order to keep our heart healthy. 1. Eat well. We all know that a healthy and balanced diet is a key ingredient of a healthy life. The best starting point is to start a log book of what you put in your body for a period of 3-4 days, including one of the weekend days. Then, in order to have a standard to compare our diet with, we have the Irish food pyramid. Plenty of vegetables, greens and wholegrains. The Irish food pyramid states 5 servings per day. If you are looking to fill your body with the right fuel and focus on eating to support your body, you won’t have

lHeart health much space left for unhealthy foods and drinks. A personalised meal plan is essential and offers you the guarantee that you eat based on your body’s needs. Work with a nutritionist, a nutrition health coach or a wellbeing coach to help you to build the best meal plan using a bio-individual approach.

2. Keep physically active. Similar to your diet, you won’t know how active you are until you start measuring your physical daily activity for 6-7 days. Wearing a smart watch to measure your steps or keeping a logbook for your daily physical activities would be two great ways to start. Realising where you are with your physical activity will give you a better chance of implementing sustainable changes. Small steps, consistency and working with someone like a fitness coach or a health coach who can hold you accountable are great tips for becoming successful. 3. Reduce alcohol consumption and plan to quit smoking. Reducing alcohol consumption to one glass per week or not consuming alcohol at all is the best way to keep your heart healthy. If it sounds impossible for you, you might benefit from asking for support. Discuss with your GP or find a health coach or a nutritionist who can help you by keeping you motivated and holding that safe space for

you to support your journey. Visit www.hse.ie for the quit smoking program and find the service near you. This is a free tool, and it definitely can support and impact your life in a positive way. 4. Managing stress The best way of managing stress is to look at the stress factors in your life and start addressing them. A simple technique such as a deep belly breathing exercise to provide your brain with enough oxygen can bring your heart from a state of fight and flight response to a state of coherence and calm. If you get overwhelmed or become resistant, don’t give up. Ask for help. Visit a well-being specialist or a mental health care provider (psychotherapist, counsellor, CBT practitioner, etc). The most important thing is to start. Small steps are better than no steps. Even the simple act of finding your personal heart health risk by becoming aware of your family’s heart health history is a great starting point.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Columnists

The Big Bad HRT, the truth behind the breast cancer scare!

Our newest columnist, Menopause expert and awareness advocate Nicola Ryan MPSI, discusses the truth behind Hormone Replacement Therapy THIS week I would like to divulge the truth about the breast cancer scare associated with taking HRT. When I do talks and see ladies in my clinic, I begin the consultation by asking what goes through their minds when they hear the letters HRT, and many of them associate the treatment with breast cancer. Even in this day and age, the overwhelming reality is that there are many women out there afraid of even considering HRT due to what they have heard. This has encouraged me to take this opportunity to provide factual information to women in the hopes that I can ease their anxiety surrounding the topic. Let’s take a look at the history of HRT. The acronym, which stands for hormone replacement therapy, has been given to ladies since the 1960s and was widely used to treat women during menopause. “Menopause is a hormone deficiency disease curable and totally preventable, just take oestrogen“ as stated by Dr Robert Wilson, the American author of ‘feminine forever’. HRT grew in popularity over the decades, rising significantly in the 1990s when many women were being prescribed HRT by their healthcare professionals for the treatment of their troublesome menopausal symptoms. However, in the 2000s this all changed for the worst. In 1993 the Women’s Health Ini-

lHormone Replacement Therapy

tiative (WHI) carried out one of the largest randomised controlled studies of its kind. The aim of the study was to investigate the effects on women who took the hormone oestrogen alone or a combined form of HRT (oestrogen & progesterone). Let’s just be very clear on the type of oestrogens and progesterone that the women were offered in this study. The oestrogen alone was a product called Premarin, this type of oestrogen was made up of an equine oestrogen hormone that was taken from the urine of pregnant horses, PREgnant MARes urINe. The combined HRT was made up of strong synthetic progesterone along with the oestrogen of the pregnant mares. Ladies, may I reassure you that these products are not usually being prescribed as often anymore…. We have come a long way since then and the products used today are body-identical, meaning they are the same type of hormones that our bodies produce naturally. Within the first five years of the study there had been no increased risk of breast cancer, however, it was noted that there was a slight increase in breast cancer cases in the cohort of ladies that were taking combined HRT (oestrogen and progesterone together). The leakage of these findings led to the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) publishing an article stating that there was a link between breast cancer

and taking HRT. These conclusions were inaccurate, and were made without the results being correctly analysed first. As you can imagine, these findings made headlines causing scaremongering amongst women and healthcare professionals all over the world. Yet in later years when the data was analysed properly, it was revealed that statistically, the link between breast cancer and HRT was insignificant and therefore, the earlier findings were considered as misleading. Not only that, but they also found that the oestrogen alone (given to women who did not have a womb) actually gave women a lower risk of breast cancer! Some of reasoning behind the inaccurate results were as follows; The average age of women in the study was 63 and it excluded women under 50. Close to half of the women were current or past smokers, had a history of heart disease and up to 70 per cent were obese or overweight. All these factors have a significant increased risk of getting breast cancer, more than any risk associated with taking HRT. The reality here is, due to these inaccurate results being leaked, most women stopped their HRT either because they decided to themselves, or because their healthcare professional made the decision for them by choosing not prescribe the treatment any-

lWOMEN’S HEALTH: Nicola Ryan more. Women all over the world now had to put-up and shut-up, learning what life meant for a menopausal woman without access to hormonal treatment. I would really like to take this opportunity to salute and to sympathise with these ladies that suffered in silence due to the fear that was unnecessarily placed upon these women. Thankfully, times have changed for the better. Guidance around the topic has changed and healthcare professionals are educating themselves with current guidelines and accurate evidence, and because of this, we have noticed an increase in the number of women willing to speak up about their symptoms and take HRT if they choose to do so. As I mentioned in my previous article, this is a hot topic and so it should be, as the benefits of HRT now in many cases outweigh the risks. HRT has changed women’s lives for the better and no woman should suffer in silence. I have made a choice to inform and reassure ladies by giving them accurate individualised information so we can work together to alleviate unwanted menopausal symptoms. Please join me next week where I will continue my discussion on HRT, listing the different forms of HRT commonly used and the benefits associated with taking HRT.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Business & Recruitment

Free Zone was the ‘precursor to changing Ireland’s economic model’ SHANNON’s Free Zone was the precursor to changes in Ireland’s economic model, the Minister for Finance has said, writes Páraic McMahon. A keynote address was delivered by Minister for Finance, Michael McGrath (FF) at Shannon Chamber’s President’s lunch in Dromoland Castle on Wednesday last. He outlined that the collaboration and links between industry, education and research in the Mid-West region has been a major contributory factor to employment growth in the region, which now stands at a quarter of a million people, an increase of 30,000 since the pandemic. Minister McGrath detailed that the Shannon Free Zone was the precursor to changes in Ireland’s economic model, he said that the region has always been to the fore in framing economic policy. He lauded the progress being made at Shannon Airport in increasing passenger numbers to over 2 million, an increase on the 2019 number of 1.8million and acknowledged the fundamentality of international connectivity to the region. With the review of the Regional Airports Programme almost complete, he said that the Government will continue to support the work of the Airport.Shannon Town’s new masterplan was labelled as an exciting roadmap by Minister McGrath. He said that a fourth call of Urban and Rural Development Fund (URDF), opening in 2024, should provide opportunities for capital funding for the project. Commitment from the Government to deliver on the potential of the Shannon Estuary is alive, the Cork native said. On how Shannon Foynes Port can contribute to the development of an offshore wind sector for Ireland, he thanked the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce for the “fine piece of work” they undertook. Discussing the national economy, Minister McGrath said that Ireland is in a good position with modified domestic demand growth, despite a weakness in GDP linked mainly to a reduction in exports in the pharmaceutical sector. With 2.7m people now in employment in Ireland, he said that this was a key measure of the health of the economy. In his introductory remarks, Shannon Chamber president, Eoin Gavin, said that the Chamber continually strives to cultivate an

lQ&A: Michael McGrath TD, Minister for Finance pictured at Shannon Chamber’s President’s lunch with Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber and pupils and teacher, Tomás Quealy, from St. Caimin’s Community School in Shannon Photo by Eamon Ward environment where enterprise can grow and meaningful role in Ireland attaining its na- and the Chamber president were the focus that is why its name appears frequently in tional carbon emission reduction targets, Mr of the luncheon, the pupils from two Shanemails to Government Ministers, Department Gavin said that through establishing a Mid- non secondary schools, St. Patrick’s ComOfficials and to local Oireachtas members. West Sustainability Network, the Chamber is prehensive School and St. Caimin’s Com“We are constantly lobbying to influence working to position Shannon and the region munity School kept the Minister engaged, positive outcomes on issues that impact our as an exemplar contributor to sustainable deas they questioned whether the Government members and, or, this region,” he comment- velopment. has enough money in the Budget to tackle ed. Citing power as a burning platform in the housing and pyrite problems, why they Focusing in on an issue of importance boardrooms, he stressed the importance of should consider politics as a career, and if to Shannon and the region he called on the developing the floating offshore wind sector, Ireland is actually in a recession. Government to support the delivery of the and reiterated the key asks put forward by the Fielding all questions, Minister McGrath Shannon Town Centre Masterplan. “We Shannon Estuary Economic Task Force “This described being a politician as an “incredible hope that the Government will demonstrate sector is so important to Ireland, we simply privilege”, which brings huge responsibilities, a commitment to Shannon, though including must move forward at pace, and through col- but that he knew from an early age where his funding for Phase 1 of this Plan - the delivery laboration. The outcomes will be as great as career would be. Stating that there are differof the first building, the One Shannon Hub in the impact the establishment of Ardnacrusha ent ways into politics, he called on those with the next round of URDF funding”. and Shannon Free Zone had on the national business and life experience to put this to use Zoning in on another Chamber objective, economy in past decades,” he said. for a common good and consider entering the enabling Shannon and the region to play a While presentations from both the Minister political arena.

Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competitions. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels for the areas set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Graduate Planner Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Closing date: 12 Noon Wednesday 17th January 2024.

IS Analyst Developer Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Closing date: 12 Noon Friday 19th January 2024. Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community. Scríobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

Ian Lynch leaps to defence of Council management following Wynne criticism A KILRUSH representative leapt to the defence of Clare County Council management following a recent scathing attack by a Clare TD in Dáil Éireann, writes Páraic McMahon. Last month in the Dáil, Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) criticised senior management of Clare County Council when asking An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar (FG) to investigate what she described as “serious matters”. Her comments were aimed at the Director of Social Development, Anne Haugh, a respected figure within the local authority. Deputy Wynne stated, “As an elected public representative I’m experiencing too many serious issues with the leadership of Clare County Council namely the leadership of the Social Direc-

torate with responsibility for housing. For the past number of months I’ve requested a meeting to discuss the various issues in respect of housing or lack of, it has not been facilitated to date, instead I’m either told no or either given a staff member that is not the head of services”. She continued, “Recently I had to request the assistance of the Minister on a specific case in relation to an issue and that did not deliver better engagement on the matter, there seems to be little respect to the mandate Taoiseach and it is concerning.”. In response, Taoiseach Varadkar commented, “I’m sorry to hear about the experience you are having with Clare County Council, the Council and its Executives aren’t answerable to me, they

are accountable to the members of Clare County Council but I will certainly let Minister O’Donnell know that the matter was raised and perhaps he will have some suggestions on how it can be brought forward”. Reacting to the Dáil contribution by Deputy Wynne, Cathal Crowe TD (FF) felt her remarks were “shameful”. He said, “Talk about throwing a hard-working official, who is beyond helpful and available to all elected representatives, under the bus”. Speaking at Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) said the criticism was “just unfair”. He outlined a recent experience where a staff member of the Council answered the phone to him to deal with a query

while they were on holidays in Spain. “The work done in each department is exceptional and I want to particularly support the housing and social development team on what they are doing”. Unbeknownst to Cllr Lynch who was attending the meeting virtually, Deputy Wynne was present in the gallery of the Council Chamber for his contribution. The TD left shortly after these remarks. Mayor of Clare, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) offered management of the Council an opportunity to respond to this contribution but this was rebuffed. When contacted on the matter by The Clare Echo, a spokesperson for the local authority declined to comment on either the remarks of Cllr Lynch or Deputy Wynne.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Business & Recruitment

Doolin Ferry Co wins prestigious award

DOOLIN Ferry Company has been crowned 'Best Irish Boat Tour Operator' at the prestigious Nautical Tourism Awards 2023. This achievement culminates a year marked by success, with Doolin Ferry already securing the 'Best Tourism Experience in Clare' accolade at the Clare Business Excellence Awards and earning a Silver Award for 'Transport & Logistics Family Business of the Year' at the National Family Business Awards. The string of recognitions is a testament to Doolin Ferry's unwavering commitment to excellence, outstanding service, and l Doolin Ferry Co

dedication to providing unparalleled experiences for our passengers. The Nautical Tourism Awards, renowned for celebrating excellence in the maritime industry, rigorously evaluate contenders on the basis of merit and quality. Awardees are analysed and assessed objectively by the LUXlife research team. This esteemed recognition underscores Doolin Ferry's position as a leader in the boat tour industry, emphasising the company's consistent delivery of exceptional services. Liam O'Brien, owner of Doolin Ferry, expressed his gratitude

and excitement about this significant achievement, stating, "Receiving the title of 'Best Irish Boat Tour Operator' is not just an award; it is a recognition of our team's hard work, dedication, and our ongoing commitment to providing the best possible experiences for our passengers. We are immensely proud of this accomplishment, and it motivates us to continually strive for excellence in the maritime tourism sector." Doolin Ferry has long been synonymous with scenic voyages along the Cliffs of Moher and enchanting trips from Doolin to the Aran Islands. This award underscores the company's ability to combine adventure with a commitment to customer care, making each boat trip a memorable and enjoyable experience. As the company gears up for the upcoming season, this accolade serves as both a celebration of past accomplishments and an inspiration to continue setting the standard for exceptional boat tours in Ireland. For more information about Doolin Ferry and its award-winning services, please visit www. doolinferry.com

Limerick Racecourse sprint to sustainability

Ahead of their Christmas Festival, Limerick Racecourse planted 2,500 trees at the Patrickswell venue, as part of its mission to be the most sustainable racecourse in Ireland. Racecourse committee members and staff were joined by local volunteers to plant native trees and shrubs on a quarter acre site at the racecourse as part of the 100 Million Trees Project Photo by Selina O’Meara

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Columnists

Thought for the week: A challenging time Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY

S CHRISTMAS approaches, we join together in prayer-filled reflection to look forward with hope to the coming days when we mark the coming of God as one of us; as one who walks with us in our joys and sorrows, no matter where we are or who we are. HOW WE RESPOND During this past year we have witnessed so many conflicts and wars in our world particularly in Ukraine, Gaza, Israel, Palestine, Ethiopia, Sudan and many more places in our world. Many have been forced to flee their homes and become refugees and many become exiles in a so-called world that prides itself as a beacon of dignity, freedom, justice and the democratic way of life. Those people, mostly women and children, were and are forced to leave their homeland to flee persecution. Indeed, recent UN figures show that 2 billion people across the world, that’s one in four of our global population, live in places of war and conflict. War’s and conflicts often bring other situations into focus, such as economic and financial pressures or social issues like homelessness

and housing insecurity. All these place challenges and choices before us in terms of how we respond. Thankfully, people in the most sense have responded generously during these past few years. Many thousands of people from places of conflict and persecution have been welcomed to this island and the way in which most families and most communities have embraced them is exemplary. Those same communities are also helping and supporting many families and individuals from Ireland to cope with the energy, homeless and financial crisis here through a variety of charitable organisations and bodies, nationally and locally. By doing all this, they proclaim through actions the love of God and continue to walk each day with people in all kinds of situations; giving hope to us all in times of darkness and fear. TOMATO SOUP 5-year-old Tommy was in the kitchen as his mother made supper. She asked him to go into the pantry and get her a can of tomato soup, but he didn’t want to go alone. “It’s dark in there and I’m scared.” She asked again, and he persisted. Finally, she said, “It’s OK Tommy, don’t be afraid, Jesus will be in there with you.” Tommy walked hesitantly to the door and slowly opened it. He peeked inside, saw it was dark, and started to leave when all

at once an idea came, and he said, “Jesus, if you’re in there, would you hand me that can of tomato soup?” THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK As your thought for the week, let’s not give each other more stuff this Christmas and instead give each other more of our love, time and kindness. Let’s not gift products but instead gift experiences such as experiences of connection, compassion, forgiveness, acknowledgment and belonging. And if we find ourselves in a place of relative abundance, let’s offer what we can to ease the suffering of our fellow humans. According to St. Mother Teresa, “the greatest good we can do for someone is to turn their darkness into light”, and even in the smallest of ways, it is an ideal that still has meaning today. Not just at this time of the year, but all year around. Our lives, country and world are far from perfect. There are always challenges and struggles we face both personally and collectively. The good news of Christmas is that even when the world or our circumstances change, the message of Christmas is timeless. Because Christmas is about the birth of God’s Son, Jesus. It is about how he came to give us love, hope and joy. That message doesn’t change from year to year.

lChristmas prayer When there is so much bad news and devastation in the world, this is good news worth celebrating! This Christmas “don’t be afraid” to do our part to be the love, kindness and peace that is deeply needed in our world for our environment, for our communities, for our families, for our hearts. Let me leave you with this prayer that I have been praying lately, “Lord God our Father, at this time of celebration, let us bring to prayer all those who are suffering because of war, violence, persecution, homelessness

or any kind of economic or social hardship. We remember especially the millions across the world who are displaced because of war and conflict and we remember all in our country who are homeless. Sharpen our awareness of how issues are interrelated. Keep our consciences alert. May our leaders develop policies and rules that are guided by humanity and vision and informed by your love for all. Thank you for the work of the many frontline workers, people and organisations that bring

your compassion and love to those most in need in our country and our world. Bring peace to the people of the troubled places of our country and our world and to those in need of mental peace. Eternal Father, as we welcome the birth of your Son, walk with your people, wherever they are, to remind them of your eternal presence, your comfort and your strength. May the peace, joy and hope of Christ be with us now and forever especially as we joyfully welcome Jesus into our cribs and into our hearts. Amen.”

Tóg go réidh é an Nollaig seo Take it easy this Christmas Macalla an Chláir

Imeachtaí/Events:

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

• CILL INÍNE BAOITH - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm • TG4 – Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy, Dé Domhnaigh, 17ú Nollaig, 9.35pm • INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com • RAIDIÓ CLARE FM - ‘’Cúl-chaint’’ le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile mhaidin Dé Sathairn, 9am. Seol nuacht chuig: Donal@clare.fm • ENNIS / INIS – Scéalaíocht agus Rannta le Ceri, Storytime and Rhyme i nGaeilge with Ceri, sa Leabharlann, Inis, Dé Sathairn an 21ú Nollaig / 21st of December, 11.00 – 11.30am IN AISCE / FREE OF CHARGE

ÍL fágtha go Lá Nollag ach dhá lá dhéag, agus cé gur am aoibhinn agus draíochtúil é, airíonn go leor daoine faoi bhrú an tráth seo bliana. Má tharlaíonn sé seo dhaoibhse am ar bith, rud a chabhródh go mór sibh a chuir ar bhur suaimhneas ná suigh síos go compórdach agus bhur n-anáil a tharraingt go deas réidh mall isteach tríd bhur bpuincíní, agus ansin séideadh go deas réidh mall amach tríd bhur mbéil. Agus é sin a dhéanamh deich n-uaire agus bhur gcuid súile dúnta agaibh. Déanaigí é sin, agus aireoidh sibh i bhfad níos fearr. THE GIFT OF IRISH LESSONS FOR NOLLAIG Fun Irish Lessons in Ennis for daoine fásta (adults) will resume in the New Year and you can purchase an eight-week course voucher for yourself, or as a bronntanas Nollag (Christmas gift) for a loved one! Enquiries/Eolas: 0851295594 Or email: spraoilegaeilge@gmail.com Ná déanaigí dearmad breathnú ar an gclár ‘’Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy’’ ar TG4 san oíche Dé Domhnaigh ag 21:35, le neart ceol agus

Gluais/Glossary:

Irish

lNá cailligí an cloigeann an Nollaig seo

scéalta ó Shráid na Cathrach! Follow us / Leanaigí ar twitter, Facebook, agus Instagram muid ag @MacallaAnChlair! Contact us / Is féidir r-phost a sheoladh chugainn má bhíonn scéal ar bith agaibh nó imeacht Gaeilge éigint ag tarlú in bhur gceantar, ag macallaanchlair@ gmail.com Go dtí an tseachtain seo chugainn, tógaigí go réidh é!

• • • • • •

English

aoibhinn – delightful faoi bhrú – under pressure bhur n-anáil a tharraingt – to breathe in (plural) go deas réidh mall – nice and slow puincín – nose aireoidh sibh i bhfad níos fearr – you (plural) will feel much better

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Sport

'Great ambassador' Podge Collins ends intercounty career by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

PODGE Collins has retired from inter-county football. News of his retirement was first reported by Clare FM with Podge (31) currently in the United States alongside former teammates David Tubridy and Keelan Sexton. His speed, skill, and workrate made the Cratloe player a hero to Clare supporters and ensured he was used as a reference point by coaches across the country. An All-Ireland winner in 2013, Collins was nominated for Hurler of the Year following a campaign that saw him become a fan favourite at corner forward when Clare claimed the Liam MacCarthy for

only the fourth time. Podge scored 0-3 in the drawn All-Ireland final against Cork and collected an All Star award for his exploits. For 2015, he opted to concentrate solely on football with Clare before suffering a cruciate ligament in in-

jury in May. He was a dual-player in 2016, winning a National Hurling League medal. His dual commitments saw him line out on successive days on two championship weekends and he will be remembered as one of the last inter-county dual players. In 2017, he committed solely to the county hurlers. Following the conclusion of Donal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor’s term as senior hurling managers in 2019, Podge left the hurling panel and has concentrated solely on football in saffron and blue since. Initially part of the Clare senior football panel in 2012, he left the squad when Davy Fitzgerald called him onto the hurling panel and

thus missed out as Micheál McDermott’s side contested the provincial final against Cork that season. Success didn’t elude him in 2012 though, Podge was part of the Clare U21 side to claim All-Ireland and provincial honours. On the football front, Podge was part of the Clare panel to overcome Kildare in the Division 3 National Football League final in 2016, introduced at half-time and kicking a point in their 2-17 1-19 victory. His father Colm served as manager of that side and Podge was involved as they contested All-Ireland SFC quarter-finals in 2016 and 2022, losing to Kerry and Derry. Having defeated Cork for the first time since '97, Clare backed this up

l The Clare minor hurlers enjoying their victory

social and All-Ireland medal presentation at Hotel Woodstock. (clockwise from main) Nuala, Darragh, Paudie and Ella White; Bernie, Ronan and James Keane from Killanena; Carol, Eoin and Declan Carey from Cratloe; Robert Loftus, Mathew O'Halloran and Michael Power; Padraig Reddan, Michael Collins and Eoin Begley; and Shane O'Donnell presents Eoghan Gunning of Broadford with the Clare GAA Minor All Star Award

by overcoming Limerick to reach the Munster final this year but were comprehensively beaten by Kerry. With his club Cratloe, Podge is the holder of three senior football titles and two Clare SHC medals. Podge married Ellen Roche from Kilmurry in April but had to sacrifice the honeymoon on account of the Munster championship. He told The Clare Echo at the time, “I can go on honeymoon when I’m forty but while I’m old enough to play I’ll try keep playing”. Chairman of Clare GAA, Kieran Keating described Podge as “a great ambassador for Clare GAA” and voiced his hope that he would remain involved with Cratloe and the county in a non-playing role.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Ennistymon end the year on high as shootout decides U21 final U21A FOOTBALL FINAL

Ennistymon 0-13 St Breckans 2-07 (Ennistymon win 3-2 on penalties) Venue: Shanahan McNamara Park, Doonbeg Compiled by Páraic McMahon

ENNISTYMON are basking in their latest success which sees them add the U21A title to the Minor A crown and Cusack Cup title to their list of achievements for 2023. Ironically St Breckan’s were their opponents for both the U21A and Cusack Cup deciders and their latest clash was the most dramatic with winning penalties from Diarmuid Fahy, Brian McNamara and Éanna Rouine together with three saves from captain Conor Gallagher helping them to lift the John Marrinan Memorial Cup. Adding some continuity from their senior management is selector Brendan ‘Beano’ Rouine who was in the role of U21 boss with Ger Quinlan coach of both sides. Beano told The Clare Echo, “We’ve won the U21 back to back, we’ve the Minor A and Cusack Cup in Ennistymon, we’re not gone away. "Every day is just that day, you draw a line in it and move on to try build on it, keep the player base wide, we’ve a lot of players challenging to get on the adult teams, it is step by step inch by inch and every day is a day of growth”. Both Conor Gallagher and Oisin O’Loughlin excelled in the penalty shootout, he maintained. “I’m not sure did we win the game or just not lose it but when it goes to penalties it is just a lottery. It was an exhibition of goalkeeping out of the two goalkeepers to be fair, when it came to penalties every penalty hit the target, it was exhibition stuff from them”. They set the way in the opening half, building up a 0-5 0-1 advantage but St Breckan’s ability to claw back with goals from Shane Fitzpatrick and O’Loughlin was evident. “Full credit to St Breck-

STORY OF THE GAME

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

ENNISTYMON Frees for: 21 (9/7/2/3) Wides: 8 (5/1/1/1) Scores from play: 0-11 Spread of scorers: 7 Top scorer: Éanna Rouine (0-4 1f) Bookings: None Own kickouts won: 10 from 13 (77%)

ST BRECKAN’S Frees for: 29 (8/12/1/8) Wides: 4 (1/1/1/1) Scores from play: 2-1 Spread of scorers: 5 Top scorer: Oisin O’Loughlin (1-2 2f) Bookings: Eoin Fitzpatrick (24). Black Card: Shane Fitzpatrick (66) Own kickouts won: 10 from 21 (47%) REFEREE: Barry Kelly (St Joseph’s Miltown)

l Shane Woods celebrates kicking a point in the opening half

an’s, they came back and hit us for the goals and those two goals really gave them wind. When it was going down the stretch of normal time, we were gone two points behind into a forceful storm and full credit to our lads who showed serious heart and character to rattle off two points to make it level and bring it to extra time. We had a good first half in extra time into the wind again but then Breckan’s came back and we were level

Burren Eye Photography

in half-time in extra time again, they came at us against the wind in the last ten, it really went down to the wire and a draw is a fair result, it is a pity there can’t be another day out for the two teams”. Ciaran McMahon’s ability to pop up with vital scores came to the fore again in Doonbeg. Last year, he goaled at the death of extra time to force a penalty shootout in their senior semi-final win over Kilmurry Ibrickane last year, on Saturday

with sixty two minutes on the clock the defender split the posts to send the U21 decider to extra time. Rouine reflected, “Ciaran is a great player, a clutch player when it comes to it at that stage in the game, a brilliant lad and an unreal team player, he is the man to get the interceptions in back in the full-back line more often than not but again today he stepped up when we needed a score all the way at the other end and did the business”. To win any championship is worth applauding but for Ennistymon to do it without their best player, the injured Brendy Rouine and Sean Rynne a starter on their senior side for the past two seasons, makes it more impressive. “Keeping the player base wide is crucial, we’ve a lot of young lads that we’re bringing through, we’ve three adult teams to cater for all year and everyone that played in that squad today had played on one of those three teams all year, they are all match fit and game fit while preparations are light this time of the year,” Beano stated.

Frost becomes Central Council delegate Clubs vote against

IN THE only contest for a position on the Executive of Clare GAA, Robert Frost defeated the sitting Michael O’Neill to become Central Council delegate, writes Páraic McMahon. Both are former Chairmen of Clare GAA and for the second year in-a-row were the only nominees for the post. O’Callaghans Mills clubman Frost won the postal vote 87-70. There were less votes cast compared with the 2022 Convention for this role, Ballyea’s O’Neill was elected with the backing of clubs 96-86 last year. Indeed this was the only vote for the Convention following plenty of change in recent seasons, a total of eight contests were held over the past two Conventions. Kieran Keating will commence his third year as Chairman of Clare GAA, the Naomh Eoin clubman’s commitment to the role in a year when he lost his father Sean and two aunts was lauded by Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy. Attending his first Convention was Treasurer Brian Fitzpatrick of Clooney/Quin who was seated alongside

Murphy, Keating, Asst Secretary Deirdre Chaplin, Vice Chairman Michael O’Connor and PRO Anne Hayes. Cooraclare duo Sean Chambers and Joe Garry were also return unopposed along with Coaching Officer, Neil O’Brien, Munster Council delegates Bernard Keane and John Fawl. Keane and Fawl will also be delegates to Munster Convention with Frost and Coolmeen’s Des Farrell. Frost is joined by Vice Chairman O’Connor and Naomh Eoin’s Gabriel Keating as delegates to National Congress. At an online meeting last week, Joan Crotty was appointed as the new Children’s Officer, the Scariff woman was proposed by Clare GAA Chairman Keating and Scariff Chairman, Ger Rodgers. Ambrose Heagney (safety and facilities officer) and Paddy Smyth (planning and training officer) were also appointed at that virtual gathering. This appointment of Crotty was questioned by Ruan’s Michael O’Regan, he asked if her predecessor Cathy Hogan of Wolfe Tones outlined if she didn’t wish to continue. Keating responded, “it is a specialised position, we met

l Robert Frost

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

with Joan to ask her if she would be interested in the role, she said she would and we recommended her to the County Committee”. “We can only have one Children’s officer, we picked who we thought would be best candidate,” the Chairman advised. O’Regan who does the announcements in Cusack Park queried if a reason arose during the year “so as to decide that this position needed somebody else other than the incumbent”. Keating detailed that there was “not anything particular” only the advice from the audit and risk committee. He then voiced his thanks to Cathy for “stepping into the role” when her predecessor Fearghal Gray of Feakle stepped down due to work

commitments. Speaking at Convention, Frost admitted it was “a great honour for me to be elected”. Currently serving as County Board delegate with the Mills, the former Munster Council Chairman added, “I will say to all clubs and everyone involved in the GAA, feel free to contact me at any time on any problem you feel I can help with”. Clare GAA Executive 2024: Head of Operations: Deirdre Murphy (Clooney/Quin) Chairman: Kieran Keating (Naomh Eoin) Vice Chairman: Michael O’Connor (Crusheen) Asst Secretary: Deirdre Chaplin (Cratloe) Treasurer: Brian Fitzpatrick (Clooney/Quin) Asst Treasurer: Sean Chambers (Cooraclare) Public Relations Officer: Anne Hayes (Lissycasey) Irish & Cultural Officer: Joe Garry (Cooraclare) Coaching Officer: Neil O’Brien (O’Callaghans Mills) Central Council Delegate: Robert Frost (O’Callaghans Mills) Munster Council Delegate: John Fawl (Ennistymon) Munster Council Delegate: Bernard Keane (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield) National Congress Delegates: Gabriel Keating (Naomh Eoin), Robert Frost (O’Callaghans Mills), Michael O’Connor (Crusheen) Munster Convention Delegates: Robert Frost (O’Callaghans Mills), Bernard Keane (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield), Des Farrell (Coolmeen), John Fawl (Ennistymon) Safety & Facilities Officer: Ambrose Heagney (Corofin) Children’s Officer: Joan Crotty (Scariff) Planning & Training Officer: Paddy Smyth (Éire Óg)

minor rule change by Seamus Hayes

news@clareecho.ie Additional reporting by Páraic McMahon

CLARE GAA will not revert the minor grade to U18 following a vote at Convention this week. Seven clubs submitted motions to this week’s convention on the subject of whether or not underage games should be played at uneven ages (under 13, U15 and U17) or at even ages. The motions generated a lively debate particularly on whether or not to change minor competition from under 17 to under 18. Referring to the topic in her address to the convention, Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy urged delegates “to think carefully and any alternative proposal really must outline the ‘how’ of implementation. It is not enough to say it has been done before as it has not been done since the split season came into being”. Before the discussion got going, motions on the topic from Kildysart and Newmarket-on-Fergus asking that minors aged eighteen be allowed to play with their club’s adult team were withdrawn. Kilmaley had two motions on the topic, one calling for a

return to under 18 for minor and the second calling for a player to have celebrated his 18th birthday prior to January 1 of the championship year. Newmarket-on-Fergus proposed that the minor club championship returns to 18 years of age from 2024 while St Joseph’s Miltown asked that minor be for U18 and not U17. St. Joseph’s Doora/Barefield delegate Anthony O’Halloran supported retaining the status quo saying that to change would be very hard on dual clubs. Ballyea wished to see the format stay as is, club secretary Fiona Whelan highlighted. “We over the last couple of years have introduced a third adult team. The Junior B was initially thought as a team for older lads but it is now filling the gap when the U19 didn’t happen this year or didn’t work out last year”. The meeting voted heavily in favour of retaining minor at U17. Ruan’s motion to revert to U14, U16 and U18 failed to have a seconder.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Sport

Clare GAA report profit of €270,186 in 2023 by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

CLARE GAA had a surplus of €270,186 for 2023, the annual convention of the association was informed this week. This was down from €614,066 in 2022. Total income for the year came to €2,969,994 up from €2,701,913 in 2022. The principal sources of income were gate receipts at €878,322, National league share at €188,853 and commercial income at €584,897. Other income totalled €604,450 and this included summer camps and coaching at €250,301, match streaming at €155,785, club levies at €60,000 and Cusack park shop at €58,344. Income from associated bodies amounted to €713,472 which included team expenses from Munster Council of €130,000, media rights grant from Central Council €234,081, coaching and development grants from Provincial council of €200,129 and field rent of €125,804. On the expenditure side player travel expenses (last year’s figure in brackets) came to €583,085

l Clare GAA Treasurer, Brian Fitzpatrick

(€526,757), catering and overnights cost €251,723 (€157,817), medical, physiotherapy and masseurs cost €171,985 (€137,653), sports gear, equipment and laundry cost €241,096 (€165,841), training facilities cost €42.858 (€25,210). Team expenses in total cost €1,373,208, up from €1,097,282 in 2022. The cost of staging games amounted to €266,885, up from €198,050 in 2022. This included referees expenses

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

of €97,857, match streaming at €67,093, gate checkers €42,900 and medals and trophies at €27,173. Wages and salaries cost €130,845, up from €51,665 in 2022 while the total cost of administration came to €261,243 up from €162,821 in the previous year. The total income for Club Clare in 2023 was €335,118, up from €232,215 in the previous year. The club membership realised €91,052, down from €97,170 in 2022.

Club Clare contributed €186,876 to county teams and development squads in the year under review made up as follows, €118,153 to adult and under 20 hurling teams, €42,437 to minor and development squads, €12,007 to schools and colleges while the Clare camogie board benefitted to the tune of €14,279. The Clare football support fund had a net income of €53,656 in the year under review which resulted in an excess of income over expenditure of €6,738. Cooraclare delegate P.J.McGuane asked if the contingent liability figure of €396,186 as of September 30, 2023, “should not be reducing” to which chairman Kieran Keating responded “clubs have borrowed money from Croke Park and if the clubs cannot pay this back the board is on the hook for that. We love to see clubs developing as it shows signs of work being done in the county”. There were no other queries on the financial report which was presented by treasurer Brian Fitzpatrick.

LIFFORD ARE PREMIER DIVISION LEAGUE-LEADERS FOLLOWING COOLE WIN

CDSL PREMIER DIVISION

Devitt commits to Treaty for 2024

LEE DEVITT has committed to League of Ireland outfit, Treaty United for the 2024 season, writes Páraic McMahon. Newmarket-on-Fergus native Lee now enters his third season at the Limerick club. He was one of Treaty’s standout players in 2023 and will be once again looked to fulfil a central role for Tommy Barrett’s side. Devitt joined Treaty for the 2022 season, he has made 76 appearances for the club, scoring five goals and having two assists. He lined out for the club on 38 occasions in both seasons. During his two year stint with Cobh Ramblers, he was one of only two players to feature in every single game in all competitions for the Cork club. On his decision to remain with

Treaty, Lee said, “I’m over the moon to be back! The last two years here have been the most enjoyable of my career to date so I’m absolutely buzzing that the journey continues”. He has previously lined out at underage level for both Shannon Hibs and Limerick FC who he represented at U17 and U19 level before making his senior debut in 2019. Keen soccer followers in Co Clare will be aware of Devitt’s uncles Michael and Kieran. Both are the holders of Premier Division and Clare Cup medals from their time in action with Newmarket Celtic and Rineanna Rovers. Michael also lined out for the Clare Oscar Traynor side while Kieran played at all grades between the posts for the Clare hurlers up to U21.

KUNZ HAT-TRICK SENDS AVENUE UTD INTO QUARTER-FINALS

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

MUNSTER JUNIOR CUP

SCAN FOR REPORT

l Fiachra Roche excelled in midfield for Lifford FC

Photo by Joe Buckley

l Eliaz Kunz

Photo by Natasha Barton / CDSL

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Ennis U14 girls shine in weekend of wins

by Dearbhla Parry

U14 Girls: Ennis RFC 49-17 Ballina/ Killaloe/Scariff RFC Drumbiggle was the scene of the Ennis and Ballina/Killaloe/ Scariff girls’ match. The game was overall a good day out for the Ennis girls and made up for their previous defeat with a great team effort by winning 49-17. Ballina/Killaloe/Scariff started off well and scored the first try in the opening minutes of the game. Ennis rallied back to even up the try count with winger Eve Tiernan running in a try in the corner, converted by Biborka Benko. The opponents scored the next try, and soon Ennis ran in two more tries just before halftime, making the halftime score 21-10. Ennis started off the second half by running in three great team tries. Killaloe/Ballina/Scariff came back with another try and fought a brave battle before Ennis ran in another try, putting the game beyond 30 points and making the referee enforce the 30-point rule. The Ennis team on the day were Sadbh McMahon, Sophie Hanrahan, Rebecca Toone, Addison Kelly, Emma Hanrahan, Emma Browne, Sally Crowe, Rachel Clarke, Lauren Reidy, Biborka Benko, Eve Tiernan, Niamh Browne, Rachel Hanrahan, Lily Richardson, and Eadaoin McNamara.

l Cian O'Connor of Ennis's U16 side touches down for a try

U15 Boys Competition Bowl: Ennis RFC 5-20 Newcastle West RFC Newcastle West came out winners against Ennis with 20-5 after three second half tries. Ennis took control of the game in the first half, but were unable to break down their opponent’s stubborn defence. Ennis led by five nil after twenty minutes and Newcastle West broke up the field and scored, leaving the score at 5-5 at halftime. Unfortunately, Ennis could not get the scores needed in the second half to stop the final score. U16 Girls Munster League: Ennis RFC 20-17 Kilrush RFC The Ennis U16 girls were away to

Kilrush in the penultimate group game of the Munster league on Saturday and came out victorious with 20-17. Ennis lost out-half Sarah Keavey through injury after 25 minutes, causing captain Laura Kate Ryan to move from full-back to number ten and Faye Ryan to come on at the second centre. With four wins from four leaving them top of the table, Ennis went into the game knowing a win would put them into the quarter finals. After an early try for Ennis by Aoife Martin, Kilrush came back with two tries within 10 minutes from Maeve Downes and Emma Geary, with a conversion by Geary. Kilrush maintained dominance, but Ennis

were able to bring the game back to within one score with a try from Kate Howard. Despite good work in the tight from Lilith Kearney, Lucy Kelly, Kiera Hanrahan, and Eimear Meaney, Kilrush kept control of the game up to the break. Ennis scrum-half Grace Hoyne kept good pressure on the back of the Kilrush scrum, but Kilrush proved the more aggressive at the breakdown and kept their lead up to the half time break, leading by 10-12. After ten minutes into the second half, Kilrush stretched their lead to seven points, with a well taken try by Holly Manning. Dogged tackling from Siofra Enright and Manning on the wings, combined with great running from Abbie Kelly and Eileen Keating, brought Ennis up to the Kilrush line. A strong break from Maeve McCarthy saw her going over for a try with 10 minutes left. Ennis saw Martin go for her second try in the corner for the last play of the game, to finish three points ahead of Kilrush. Ennis: Lilith Kearney, Kate Howard, Aoife Martin, Lucy Kelly, Eimear Meaney, Maebh McCarthy, Kiera Hanrahan, Nicole Clarke, Grace Hoyne, Sarah Keavey, Holly Murphy, Eileen Keating, Abi Kelly, Siofra Enright, Laura Kate Ryan, and Faye Ryan.

U16 Boys League: Ennis RFC 17-8 St. Senan’s RFC Ennis played a great game in difficult conditions against St. Senan’s, resulting in a 17-8 derby victory. St. Senan’s took a 0-3 lead at

the beginning of the game, putting early pressure on Ennis. Luckily, Ennis were able to work their way into the game and took over the lead through Cian O’Connor’s try. In the second half, Ennis dominated territory and possession, which was rewarded by another try from O’Connor. After another score off the restart with strong running and support play, Oran Considine was given space to crash over and push the score to 17-3. St. Senan’s responded with a consolation try, but the final score was still in favour of Ennis RFC. Additional Results: U18 Boys: Ennis 15-14 Shannon U14 Boys: Ennis 22-29 Nenagh Fixtures: U18 Girls League: Ennis v Carrick on Suir; Saturday 16th December; 12:30 in Carrick on Suir U18 Boys Cup: Ennis v Sundays Well; Saturday 16th December; 12:30 in Musgrave Park U16 Boys League: Ennis v Waterpark; Saturday 16th December; Kick-off TBC in Waterpark Senior Women’s League: Ennis v Tralee; Sunday 17th December; 13:00 in Drumbiggle Senior Men’s League Cup: Ennis v Dingle; Sunday 17th December; 14:00 in Dingle

Limerick & Clare GOBA 525 sweepstake gets underway by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

FESTIVE FEATURE €20.00PP

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THERE was a competitive card on offer at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on Saturday night last as the opening round heats of the Callaway Pro Am Stud A3 600 took place, as well as the opening round heats of the Limerick & Clare GOBA 525. In the opening round of the Limerick & Clare GOBA A2/A3 525, it was We Got This who set the standard for Amanda Meade and Sean Roche.Bidding to double his career tally after victory at Clonmel in October, We Got This was the 3/1 second favourite heading into heat three but it proved a straightforward task for the son of Droopys Buick as he made every yard of the running. Drawn in four, We Got This broke best of all from his middle berth and he immediately excelled to take a one length lead into the opener. Quickly doubling his advantage, he was never under threat as he cantered to a five length victory over De Monkey in second. The time was 28.66. Four heats of the Sean Scully Memorial A4 525 Stake formed the spine of Wednesday night’s eight race programme at Galway Greyhound Stadium. The €2000 to the winner stake commemorating one of the great and most knowledgeable individuals of the greyhound industry is generously sponsored by Sean’s family. There was a dramatic finish to the opening heat as the David Hogan of Quilty owned Tromora Rex who had endured more than her fair share of traffic problems throughout the contest finally found a gap off the home bend as she nailed On The Radio close home to score by half a length in 29.38. Joeys Girl and On The Radio disputed the early lead with Jo-

eys Girl leading by a length entering the back straight . Nearing the third bend On The Radio moved through along the rails to strike the front leading by two lengths at the home bend but here Tromora Rex (Ballymac Cooper & Ballymac Merkle) found room before powering through to lead on the line. As the traps rose for the opening S8 graded contest all five runners (Trap 6 Vacant) were away pretty much on terms but as they raced towards the opening bend the Kieran Browne and Brian O’Halloran of Cree owned Burnpark Lorna showed pace on the wide outside to lead Balroebuck Charme by two lengths approaching the opening bend. Rounding the bend the daughter of Newinn Wonder and Burnpark Maryln really took the scenic route but despite conceding many lengths she was home and hosed early in the straight to score by three and a half lengths in 18.51. The A1 graded tenth contest over 525 yards was the feature event in Saturday night’s eleven race programme at the same venue where a huge crowd was present to enjoy an exciting nights racing. In race 4 the George Gallery of Rockmount Ennis owned Cillowen Missile who hadn’t enjoyed the best of passages in his two most recent outings recorded his maiden success at the eighth attempt in this A4 graded 550 making almost all to defeat Wilbrook Sydney by four & a half lengths in 30.62. The son of Magical Bale and Paul Hana was away well In company with Blaze Bill and Wilbrook Sydney but with some crowding behind at the opening bend Cillowen Missile kicked clear down the back. At halfway the lead was four lengths as he powered clear of his toiling rivals for a deserved success.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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Gift ideas for the golfer by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

AS THE holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for the golf enthusiast in your life can be difficult. For those seeking inspiration, a visit to your local golf shop will offer a plethora of fantastic gift ideas that will cater to golfers of all levels. Whether it's a beginner or a seasoned pro, here are some stellar suggestions to consider this Christmas. 1) Golf Clubs: Golf clubs are always a cherished gift for any golfer. From drivers, fairways, hybrids, Irons, wedges to putters, the majority of golf stores will boast a wide range of clubs to suit all skill levels and preferences. For beginners, forgiving clubs with larger sweet spots will help to improve their game, while advanced players might appreciate top-of-the-line models designed for precision and distance control. Our advice is to take a photo of their current clubs in their bag and the professionals instore can advise if there are any gaps or clubs that could need upgrading. Wedges grooves wear down usually after two seasons, therefore a new wedge is always welcome for maximum spin control. Also buying a voucher for a custom fitting will guarantee your loved one will get the perfect club to suit their own unique golf swing. 2) Gapping Session: Why not treat that golfer in your life to a gapping session in a modern state of the art golf simulator. They will no longer need to guess how far each of their golf clubs travel. They will receive a

detailed print out of how far they hit every club. We recommend two sessions within one month to achieve accurate numbers. It is an excellent way for a golfer to finally work on their distance control. These sessions will highlight any gaping issues they may have also between two clubs that will need to be addressed. 3) Golf Technology: The advancement of technology in golf has revolutionized the game. Consider gifting a golf GPS watch or a range finder, which provides accurate yardage readings and helps golfers navigate the course efficiently. Both rangefinders and gps devices are crucial for all golfers to help them with the most important aspect of golf and that is distance control. Knowing your numbers is critical for any golfer who is seeking consistency and improving their game. 4) Training Aids: For those looking to improve their swing or putting skills, golf stores offer an array of training aids. From alignment sticks to putting mats and swing trainers, these tools can assist golfers in refining their techniques and becoming more consistent on the course. A training aid I highly recommend is the Tempo Trainer golf swing aid. It is one the best training aids I’ve ever seen and it is a great tool for every golfer who needs to understand the correct technique of how to correctly swing a golf club. It is also an incredible tool to warm up with for five minutes before you head out on the course. 5) Golf Bags and Carts: A sturdy, well-designed golf bag is an essential accessory for every golfer. Whether it's a lightweight

Sport

Weather disrupts activity on golf courses by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

carry bag or a spacious cart bag for those using a golf cart. There is a vast variety of options from waterproof bags to extreme lightweight showerproof bags. Additionally, golf push carts or motorized carts can make navigating the course easier and more enjoyable. When you are using a cart, you are still maintaining the same level of exercise however over a lifetime of golf you are saving your lower back muscles from wear and tear. 6) Golf clothing is both smart and casual: Golf clothing nowadays is extremely smart, casual and trendy and is a welcome gift in anyone’s wardrobe, )even for those non-golfers). Any of the golf clothing you'll see can be comfortably worn on nights out, business meetings and during all outdoor activities. Winter pieces can be water-repellent and fleece lined inside the outer-layer. The technology that goes into golf clothing is incredibly scientific. So many tops are lightweight however extremely warm and often have

European Gold for Murphy & Irish U20s NIALL Murphy has brought a gold European medal back to Co Clare. Murphy (pictured far left) of Ennis Track was part of the Irish U20 team to win gold at the SPAR European Cross Country Championships held in Brussels on Sunday. It started the day with a bang for Team Ireland with the superb team performance from the Men’s U20 team seeing them improve on last year’s silver medal. Niall was the second Irish athlete home and finished ninth overall, five of the Irish athletes finished in the top thirty places. Nick Griggs took the bronze medal while Jonas Stafford finished tenth. Seamus Robinson (City of Derry Spartans AC), Shane Brosnan (An Riocht), and Harry Colbert (Waterford AC) completed the team. Ennis pair, Oisin Spillane and Dean Casey were best of the Irish in the Men’s U23 race, they finished in 28th and 29th position respectively. In the senior men’s race, Clarecastle native Kevin Mulcaire finished in thirty seventh. Fionnuala McCormack (Kilcoole AC) produced one of the all-time great Irish performances to finish fourth in the senior women’s race.

a water-repellent outer-layer. Also a lot of the clothing has a stretch material within the fabric, which helps to achieve an incredible flattering fit as well as easy of moment. If you have not considered golf clothing before, I highly recommend you visiting a golf retaip store to see the incredible ranges of clothing available. 7) Golf Lesson Voucher: A voucher for a lesson with your local PGA Golf Professional is always an easy gift idea. Sometimes golfers don’t realise how easy it is to improve their golf game. There is always an aspect of the golf game where golfers are struggling with, therefore you can’t go wrong with this as a gift idea. 8) Stocking Fillers: Neck Warmers; Woolen hat; Winter Mitts; Golf Balls Dozen; Waterproof Hats; Baseball Caps; Animal Driver Headcovers; Socks; Golf Gloves; Callaway Winter Gift Set; Storm Umbrellas. #PadraigKnowsGolf

WET and windy conditions last weekend resulted in the cancellation of a number of competitions in golf clubs across the region. Better conditions are expected this week and this should result in the scheduled competitions going ahead. Woodstock and Dromoland did manage to hold competitions and these produced some impressive scores WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Dickie Pyne (12) was the winner of the 15 hole club singles at Woodstock at the weekend with 28 points, The Ozone Health & Fitness sponsored league continued at the weekend when the winners were Eugene Killeen and Cathal Nagle with 61 points. They had two to spare over Michael Guerin and David Quinn with Bryan and Cathal Clune in third place with 55 points. The league continues this weekend when the format will be scotch foursomes while the club competition with be a 15 hole singles event. DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: Philip Hehir was the winner of the men’s Christmas turkey competition at Dromoland at the weekend with 44 points. He had four to spare over Noel O’Brien with Joe Walsh three points further back in third place. Last week’s men’s seniors competition saw Barry Walsh win category A from Alan White with Noel McMahon in third place. Category; B was won by Matthew Cooney from Mark Skehan with Mick Foley in third place. Week 5 in the ladies 9 hole turkey competition saw Anne McMahon win with 22 points from Sandra Moylan with 20 points with third place filled by Cora O’Toole with 18 points. The winners of the ladies 9 hole team of three competition were Anne McMahon, Joan Dunne and Teresa Reddan with 27 points from Patricia Moroney, Deirdre Cooney and Mairead Bergin with 26 points. In third place, also with 26 points, were Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Michelle McCarthy and Mikhaila Fitzpatrick.

Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Thursday, Dec 14, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Quiz

The Clare Echo Clonlara Quiz are the colours of Truagh CamoWhich of these pubs would you find in 1a. What gie Club? 6 the village? Blue + Navy a. Flannery’s Pub b. Blue + White c. Navy + White

b. McGregor’s Pub c. O’Shea’s Pub

Which of these townlands are on the 2 outskirts of the village? a. Doonass

What is the name of the Primary 7 School in Clonlara? a. Clonlara National School

b. Fahy c. Kilmurry

b. Scoil Íde c. Scoil Seanáin Naofa

Which of these centres would you find What is the name of the Ctaholic 3 on the outskirts of Clonlara? 8 church in the village? a. Equestrian Centre a. St. Michael’s Church

Which of these former Munster Rugby players are from the village? a. Keith Wood b. Marcus Horan c. Paul O’Connell

How many Clare Senior Hurling Titles have the Clonlara GAA club won? a. Four b. Three c. Two

Former Labour TD Jan O’Sullivan is a How many All-Stars has Clonlara 5 native of the village, and was a former 10 and Clare Senior Hurler John ConMinister of one of the Departments, Which Minister was she? a. Minister for Education b. Minister for Finance c. Minister for Health

lon won? a. One b. Three c. Two

Quiz by Adam Maloney

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE Can you spot the 7 differences

l QUESTION 10: How many All-Star’s has Clonlara and Clare Senior Hurler

John Conlon won?

Photo by Martin Connolly

ANSWERS 6.O’Shea’s Pub 7.Scoil Seanáin Naofa 8.St. Senan’s Church 9.Three 10.Two

b. St. Senan’s Church c. St. Vincent’s Church

1.Blue + Navy 2.Doonass 3.Equestrian Centre 4.Marcus Horan 5.Minister for Education

b. Leisure Centre c. Shopping Centre

Last weeks answers . Brigdale logo missing on top . S missing on bus windscreen . 12 missing on number plate (left) . Award missing

. Merc badge missing on the bus (right) . Tax disc missing (left) . Black zip missing on pants

Ennistymon celebrate their victory over St. Breckans to win the U21A football title Photo by Burren Eye Photography

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

Puzzle

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THIS WEEKS PUZZLES Dec 14

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

8/13/2020

MEDIUM

5 9

Hickory

How to play

Linden

Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.

ANSWERS 8

6 1

5 8

2 1 4 8 5 9 6

8 4 5 6 7 2 3

)

MEDIUM 8/13/2020

Pine

Palm

Oak

Maple

Magnolia

HOW TO PLAY

Larch

Fir

1/1

Fig

Elm

Cypress

Chestnut

Willow

Cedar

Sycamore

Birch

Spruce

Sequoia

How to play

Beech

Aspen

Redwood

1/1

Alder

) 6( e s 8

The Clare Echo Crossword 1

020 10

ficult - just 12

ACROSS

1.Counting-frame (6) 4.Give a sermon (6) 8.Fencer’s weapon (5) 9.Naval rank (7) 10.Globes (7) 11.Meeting place (5) 12.Revoked (9) 17.Exterior (5) 19.Everywhere (3,4) 21.Trig ratio (7) 22.Ether (anag) (5) 23.One who dies for a cause (6) 24.Blood vessel (6)

1/1

DOWN

1.Appraise (6) 2.Someone else (7) 3.Below (5) 5.Taken away (7) 6.Protective garment (5) 7.Aided (6) 9.Attacker (9) 13.Magic (7) 14.Varied (7) 15.Base (6) 16.Avaricious (6) 18.Male singing voice (5) 20.By and by (5)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS Y

B 51

D E

R 21

E E

O A

T R

C 7

E 6

P 5

S 4

0202 tsugu

t s uj - tl u ciffi d o ot t o n

S 01

P L

O 71

T 12

M 32

C 3

B 2

A 1

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

Planning

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILCLOHER, KILMALEY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Ronan Pyne & Angela Sheehan intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL WATERY ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Clare Family Resource Centre Ltd intends to apply to the planning authority for (a) permission to extend the grounds of the Childcare facility to the North with the construction of additional carparking spaces, an access road along with a new entrance and converting some of the existing carparking area to children’s play areas with additional fencing & hedging, along with ancillary works and (b) retention permission for roof canopies on the existing main building, at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DRUMQUIN, TIERMACLANE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that James Hehir intends to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage, complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, MAIN ST., LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE. V95 VPP9 Take notice that Tony and Deirdre Considine, T/A An Café Beag Teoranta intend to apply for planning per-

mission to renovate, extend and reuse the stone outbuildings to the rear of the main building as a 2 bed roomed unit for short stay letting and to alter the front façade of the main building to create a new access corridor to the rear yard and proposed unit & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYBEG, ENNIS, CO. CLARE V95 A5R7 Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Rory O’Brien for permission to (a) renovate and extend existing dwellinghouse (b) renovate garage to include home office together with all associated site development works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL QUIN, CO. CLARE Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Con & Joan Ryan for permission to construct an entrance, dwellinghouse and garden shed together with all associated site development works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CARROWNAGOUL, BOSTON, TUBBER, CO. CLARE Further Information/Revised Plans Planning Ref: P23/457 Development description: To construct a new dwelling house, garage, new site entrance, wastewater treat-

ment unit & percolation area and all associated site works. Location: Carrownagoul, Boston, Tubber, Co. Clare Take note that we David & Lori O’ Donoghue have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P23/457. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority of Clare county council, Planning department, Aras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKERRA WEST, KILRUSH Take notice that P. Fitzpatrick intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect 5No dwellings + foul sewer treatment systems + percolation areas, to connect to ancillary services and to develop service road and new site entrance at the above address. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL SITE ADDRESS: GORTADERRA, CO CLARE. “Take notice that Katarzyna Ramsey & Derek Ryan intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and storage area complete with sewage treatment system and all ancillary works at the above address” The planning authority may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five (5) weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority” CLARE CO. COUNCIL BALLYNACRAGGA, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Shane O’Brien intends to apply to the Planning Authority for outline permission for development which will consist of the

construction of a dwelling house, garage, a proprietary waste water treatment system and ancillary site works. At the above address The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority Clare County Council, Áras Contae An Chláir, New Road, Ennis Co Clare, during its public opening hours, and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, FORMOYLE, EIGHTERAGH EAST, INAGH, CO. CLARE Further Information / Revised Plans Planning Ref: P23/60317 Development Description: Permission to construct a dwellinghouse, detached domestic garage, wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter together with all associated site development works and services Location: Formoyle, Eighteragh East, Inagh, Co. Clare Take notice that Tracey Wynne has lodged significant further information in respect of the planning application P23/60317. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYVULLAGAN, DARRAGH, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Further Information / Revised Plans Planning Reference: P 23 / 60312 Development Description: Planning permission to construct a new dwelling house, new entrance, access road, private garage and install a new wastewater treatment system along with all associated works at Ballyvullagan, Darragh, Ennis, Co. Clare. Location: Ballyvullagan, Darragh, Ennis, Co. Clare. Take notice that Tomás Gavin has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P 23 / 60312. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Chontae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, ILLAUNMANAGH, TULLYVARRAGA, SHANNON, CO. CLARE Take notice that Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to relocate the existing temporary ‘Polytunnel’ structure to a new location within the site for a period of 5 years along with associated site works at the above address. The works are to take place within the curtilage of a protected structure (RPS No. 664). That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLAHANE, LISCANNOR Take notice that P. O’Connor intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect dwelling house, basement garage, foul sewerage treatment plant, percolation area and new site entrance at the above address. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MOVEEN-WEST, KILKEE, CO. CLARE Take notice that Michael Keating Dip. Arch. (phone 085-8421780, www. michaelkeating.ie), on behalf of Alan Mahoney, intends to apply to Clare County Council for full permission to construct a new dwelling house, garage, provide waste water treatment system (see previous Planning Ref. No. P22/1081), and new entrance. Existing derelict building to be used as a farm office, and for the storage of livestock feed, including medical and veterinary supplies. And to carry out all ancillary site works at MoveenWest, Kilkee, Co. Clare. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Dec 14, 2023

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