The Clare Echo 15/07/21

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Councillors should be forgiven... as long as there’s no repeat Expenses debacle uncovered by RTÉ’s Prime Time PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

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WO of Clare’s elected representatives have come under national attention for breaching expenses rules.

Ennis councillors, Mary Howard (FG) and Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) received double payments by incorrectly claiming expenses,

an investigation by RTÉ has revealed.

Colleran Molloy has reimbursed Clare County Council €343 for errors which she has taken responsibility for.

Howard said she was hopeful to bring the matter to a conclusion in the coming days. Clare Echo political columnist Eoin Neylon reserved praise for the pair’s track record and insists they deserve the public’s forgiveness over the controversy.

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Index NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

DRIVE-IN, LAHINCH STYLE Enough

room for a pony

2-15

GREENER CLARE

16

ENTERTAINMENT

17

COMMUNITY

19

STYLE & BEAUTY

21-27

BUSINESS

28-29

SPORT

36-42

A

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

REFURBISHED O’Briensbridge property has gone on the market for €790,000.

Rye Hill Lodge underwent a 15 month renovation during the lockdown and is now available on the higher end of the housing market from Sherry Fitzgerald. The six-bed house built in the 1990s is laid out over four floors and measures 5,500sq ft, five times the floor space of the average three-bed semi-detached.

Some of the features of the lower ground floor include a bar, gym, sauna, pool room and wine cellar.

36C Abbey Street, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021

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

SALES

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

lTO THE FOUR: Captains Johnny O’Brien and Margaret Cooney drove into office under

glorious sunshine at Lahinch Golf Club on Sunday evening after postponing their Drive-In for the past 15 months due to the coronavirus pandemic Photo by Brian Arthur

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THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

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THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Vaccine centres should be used for HPV catch up PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

ACCINATION centres all over the country should be used as part of a ‘catch-up programme’ for the administration of the HPV vaccine, Clare councillors

have said.

An appeal has been issued to Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) this week looking for vaccination centres, vaccinators and pharmacists to administer the HPV vaccine.

In a proposal before Clare County Council, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) stated that it was timely for the Department of Health to take such action “now that we have an efficient and effective Covid Vaccination Programme”.

As well as using the centres for a ‘catchup programme’, Cllr Howard asked that the Minister offer the vaccine free of charge to all secondary schools.

Speaking at the July meeting of the County Council, the Ennis woman said she had been spending a lot of time with family of the late advocate Laura Brennan in recent weeks,

l LEGACY: The late Laura Brennan “they and I are concerned with the rollout of the HPV vaccine”.

From 2019 to 2020, the uptake of the HPV vaccine was 82 percent for the first dose and

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77 percent for the second.

Latest estimations have the current uptake at 63 percent following a pause of the programme for the 2021 academic year due

to COVID-19 and the redeployment of staff within the Department.

“These vaccination centres will be here for a while yet,” Cllr Howard commented. Up to 1100 pharmacists are willing to come on board and back the request, she stated.

Clare has done pretty well with catching up on the programme but the same cannot be said for all counties, Howard highlighted. “I am anxious that we would bring this forward to other Councils, it is a sensible and practical way of doing it”.

Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) seconded what she described as “a fantastic motion”.

“Anyone that does go into the vaccination centre have all said the efficiency is second to none, why not use it and get the HPV vaccination in there,” the Shannon representative remarked.

Further support was voiced by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), “the existing infrastructure is in place, if it can assist to increase the uptake of the HPV vaccine of course it should be used”. Following through on the request would ease the workload of the Department, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) flagged.

“This is a brilliant common sense motion,” he commented and added, “I hate duplication in any process”.

Group of Clarecare staff subject to ‘blatant discrimination’ in pay

by PÁRAIC McMAHON CLARECARE workers have been victims of “blatant discrimination”, a Clare Senator has claimed.

Pay restoration for employees in the health and social care sector who are employed by community and voluntary organisations in the context of Clarecare has been highlighted by Senator Timmy Dooley (FF).

Clarecare is the largest Clare based, not for profit social enterprise. Currently, it has an approximate workforce of 420.

Praise of the work carried out by staff was voiced by Dooley in the Seanad as he recounted how funding to Clarecare had been reduced over the past 11 years. “Until 2014, the HSE provided all the funding to Clarecare, particularly for funding towards family support services as well as the elderly care services under what is known as a section 39 agreement.

“In April 2010 during the economic crash, the HSE reduced funding to Clarecare and other organisations for salaries to the tune of 4%. That had to be passed on

by Clarecare to all staff. When Tusla was established in 2014 the funding of the family support services provided to Clarecare was transferred from the HSE to Tusla and since then that funding has been provided to the Clarecare under what is known as a section 56 service level agreement”.

Staff contracted under a section 39 agreement began to receive a pay restoration from the HSE in January of this year, those under a section 56 agreement have not received the same treatment, the Mountshannon native remarked.

“In practical terms, we have a team of workers who are contracted by the State through Clarecare to provide health and social care services in County Clare. A pay cut was enforced on all of them in 2010. Pay restoration was recommenced in January of this year but only some of the workers qualify. That begs the obvious question: why?

“They have been told if the HSE is providing the funding they will get their pay restoration but for those who were funded by the HSE when the pay cuts were introduced in 2010 and since 2014 have been funded by Tusla, it is tough luck, they do not get restoration.

“That does not seem fair to me and it certainly is not seen as fair by the workers on the ground,” he added.

Dooley concluded, “It is blatant discrimination for a group of people who were treated in a fair and equitable way up to a certain point to now discover because their funding was transferred to a different Department they do not qualify for pay restoration of pay in terms of the pay cut they took in unison with everybody else at the time. They need action now”.

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

NEWS

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Sustainable tourism opportunity

by PÁRAIC McMAHON CLARE County Council’s looming takeover of Shannon Heritage operated sites in the county offers a “real opportunity” to grow sustainable tourism.

Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Knappogue Castle, Craggaunowen and the retail outlet at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience are to come under the local authority’s ownership.

Speaking this week, Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling outlined that the process of taking over the sites was only commencing. He is to meet sites at the tourist attractions in August. Staff from within the Council have been tasked with guiding the process with legal services and financial services currently analysing the work involved. “It will be a long and difficult process,” he cautioned.

Taking over the sites was “bold and brave,” Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) stated. Additional resources must be supplied by the Government, he felt. “There is a real opportunity carrying alongside it a risk that we are not becoming competitors”.

Existing workers of the sites must be protected, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) commented. He viewed the takeover as “a huge challenge but very opportunistic”.

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

TD calls on GAA not to renew with Sky PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE’S do or die All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship qualifier tie with Wexford will be aired on Sky Sports this Saturday while one of the county’s Oireachtas representatives has said the GAA must have free to air broadcasting of all games from next year.

Speaking ahead of the renegotiation of the GAA’s contract with Sky Sports for exclusive coverage of certain matches, Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) remarked, "GAA coverage cannot be auctioned off to the highest bidder in future”.

A five-year deal originally was agreed with the subscription-based broadcaster in 2014 before being extended two years later until 2021.

l PUNDITS: (l-r) Jackie Tyrell, Ollie Canning, Jamsie O'Connor and Brian Carney

Several supporters will be unable to watch the keenly anticipated meeting of Clare and Wexford this weekend, the Scariff native flagged.

“Excessive Sky subscription

costs, ongoing restrictions on attendances at matches, as well as restrictions on pubs showing matches means that many people will miss out Clare's game with Wexford in Thurles this

Two councillors come under fire for expenses irregularities

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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WO Clare councillors have come under fire for breaching expenses rules.

As part of an RTÉ investigation, it was revealed that hundreds of councillors contravened law by failing to declare expenses they received from external organisations, many elected representatives also received double payments by incorrectly claiming expenses from their own local authority and from an external organisation for the same official absence.

Four incidents were discovered where Cllr Mary Howard’s (FG) (inset photo by Eamon Ward) commitments with either LCETB or GMIT clashed with training seminars expensed to her council.

The first involved a seminar in Bantry, Co Cork, at the end of September 2016. In a council claim, she said she left home on a Thursday afternoon for Bantry, returning on Sunday afternoon. She was paid €532 for mileage and subsistence, including two overnight stays. In a claim to the training board, however, Cllr Howard said she left home on Friday morning for an interview panel in Limerick that took place between 9.30am and 6pm. She was paid for the return journey from Ennis to

Limerick, as well as a fee of €130.

Cllr Howard said she drove to Bantry on Thursday and stayed overnight but forgot that she was to conduct interviews in Limerick the following morning. She said that she drove back to Limerick early on Friday, and then returned to Bantry after the interviews were finished.

Events in Gorey and Monaghan Town also clashed with GMIT meetings in Galway plus an event in Donegal Town which clashed with another training board interview panel in Limerick. Claims submitted to both the training board and GMIT place her in Ennis on mornings when she was, according to her council claims, at the seminars in other parts of the country at the expense of her council.

According to the former Mayor of Clare, she stayed overnight on those occasions.

She said she drove to the Gorey and Monaghan seminars, stayed the night, left for Galway in the morning for the GMIT meetings, and then drove back to the seminars once the meetings were finished. "I enjoy driving, thus journeying to and from these locations is not a chore for me”.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) submitted two separate expense claims to Clare County Council for attending Spring Training Seminar of the Local Authority Members Association (LAMA) in Gormanston in Meath in April 2017 and annual general meeting of IPB Insurance in Dublin on

the same day.

According to her expense claims, after the IPB meeting finished in Dublin, she returned to Ennis, then later that day, drove to Gormanston. In total, she claimed more than 1,000km for the two events and missed most of the Gormanston seminar.

The rules stipulate that in such situations, a councillor is entitled to claim for "the shortest overall route" between the two events and not for two return trips home. The Quin native also claimed for an overnight stay on Saturday night – even though the Gormanston event finished Saturday afternoon.

She stated that her claims were made "in good faith" but that she realised that "two errors were made for which I take full responsibility”. She said that she had to return to Ennis from Dublin on Friday to attend to an "urgent personal matter."

She also said that "the overnight on Saturday was personal time and was not to be reimbursed," adding that she had "not realised this overpayment." She said that she had reimbursed €343 to Clare County Council.

In a statement subsequent to the airing of the RTÉ programme, Cllr Howard confirmed she had been in contact with Clare County Council, GMIT and LCETB and has asked them to review the matter. “For absolute clarity, I can confirm that I attended all events on all dates in question for which I claimed travel and subsistence payments. I hope to bring this matter to a conclusion within the coming days”.

weekend at 1.30pm, a time that is ultimately dictated by the broadcaster.

"While I acknowledge that the GAA GO service also enables supporters to subscribe and watch the game online, many people in rural parts of the county are disadvantaged by not having access to good quality broadband connectivity and in some cases, any broadband services.”

“This issue is a source of great frustration to most people in Clare and throughout the country as they rightly believe that our national game should be free to air for everyone to enjoy.

"I believe the GAA’s decision to agree a contract with Sky in 2014 was wrong then and I believe it would be wrong now to renew this contract beyond 2021.

Government must work with the GAA to ensure our national game is free to air when the current agreement expires later this year,” Deputy McNamara concluded.

Blood imported to avoid crisis THE national blood supply is now up over a worrying threshold, following concerns after a consignment of negative blood groups was imported from the UK due to the impact of COVID-19 in the last fortnight.

IBTS Chief Executive Orla O’Brien stressed that the organisation was battling with “tight supply and demand” and that “despite the excellent work of donors throughout the pandemic”, the decision to import blood in bulk for the first time since the late 1990s was made to “avoid creating a national alert”.

Each year the IBTS signs up 20,000 new donors to its system, however; last year this figure fell by 60 per cent to only 7,500 new donors. “We need to get new donors into the system. All efforts and local appeals were unable to get stock levels up last week. Patient’s surgeries could have been cancelled. We did not want to perpetuate with everything that is going on in the health service now, so we opted to im-

port,” the trained general and paediatric nurse told The Clare Echo.

Local GP at the Ennis Family Medical Centre, Dr Máire Finn stressed the importance of giving blood.

She pitted the recent drive as a consequence of the return of elective surgeries which were cancelled due to the pandemic. She emphasised the necessity for hospitals to have blood on standby, particularly in the case of orthopaedic, abdominal or post-partum bleeds. A regular donor herself, she acknowledged that “it could be any of us in one of those situations”.

Mary Warren began donating blood after her youngest daughter had cardiac surgery in Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin in March 2011 but did not need to have a blood transfusion unlike so many, very young children who did. "I would encourage those that are healthy to offer this life giving gift, " she concluded.

Book your appointment at St. Joseph's GAA Club Doora Barefield at 061-306980.

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THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

‘Our sadness is tinged with a profound sense of gratitude’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

EGARDED as a hugely influential figure in East Clare, Sr Bosco Griffin has been laid to rest.

Sr Bosco’s decades-long involvement with pastoral and community organisations were hailed at her funeral mass on Saturday which was celebrated by Bishop Fintan Monahan, Fr Brendan Quinlivan, Fr Brendan Lawlor and Fr Martin O’Brien.

Born in Roscommon in 1941, Bridget Mary Griffin became an integral part of the Tulla community since 1981 when she moved there to began teaching at St Joseph’s Secondary School.

She worked tirelessly for communities in the county and further afield through her efforts to promote the missions. Her car boot sales in Tuamgraney raised tens of

thousands of eurors for clinics and schools overseas.

Among the groups, Sr Bosco was involved with included the Apostolic Work Society, the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association, Killaloe Diocesan Vocations Committee, the Youth 2000 Prayer Group and the Ennis Cathedral Eucharistic Adoration Group.

The eldest of three children, Bridget Mary was the first born child of the late Michael Griffin and Eileen Hurley of Ballymacurley.

She was affectionately known as Bridie.

Nenagh was where she entered the Sisters of Mercy and it was here that she took the name John Bosco.

She made her profession on August 17, 1967 and taught at St Mary’s Secondary School in Nenagh until 1980 before coming to Tulla.

She was also the holder of a Science Degree and a HDip from UCD, she taught Science and Maths at the schools in Tipperary and Clare before becoming a Career Guidance Counsellor.

l HUGELY INFLUENTIAL: Sr Bosco Griffin was laid to rest this week Speaking at her funeral, Bishop Bosco gave a dance lesson to Marty Fintan Monahan recalled how Sr Morrissey prior to his appearance

on Dancing With the Stars. “The several hundred comments on RIP. ie and social media over the past few days are an amazing testament to the huge impact that she had on so many lives, with her enthusiasm for outreach along with her genuineness, her transparent goodness, her other-worldliness and her holiness.”

Carmel Moroney, secretary of Tulla Parish Pastoral Council spoke of Sr Bosco’s sense of humour, flair for crosswords and a love of knitting.

“While our sadness is great, it is tinged with a profound sense of gratitude to God, for allowing us to experience his love through the live and ministry of Sr Bosco,” she said.

Sr Bosco is survived by her brother Bernie and sister-in-law Ita; her niece Lorraine Wills, and nephewin-law Dave; and her grandnieces Megan and Sophie.

She was laid to rest in Oran Cemetery, County Roscommon, alongside her parents and her late brother, Tommie.

Prominent Kilrush building affected by pyrite

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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A CLARE TD has expressed concern with the growing scale of the county’s pyrite problem.

Members of the Clare Pyrite Action Group over the weekend discovered that Creek Lodge in Kilrush, a heavily used building at the Marina was showing signs of defective concrete blocks with vertical and horizontal cracking visible on the exterior walls of the property.

Parts of the building are used by popular businesses in the West Clare town with other aspects used for residential and commercial purposes.

Just under 60 persons are now signed up members of the Clare Pyrite Action Group which is seeking the extension of the defective concrete block scheme to Co Clare.

Following testing, it has emerged that two local authority built estates have been affected by pyrite while instances of properties all over the county have been reported.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Violet-Anne Wynne TD (SF) said the discovery in Kilrush heightened the problem in Clare. “When you realise your property is impacted by the issue, it’s like a place of trauma because from that moment onwards you’re left wondering what is going to happen, we know now Clare is still not included in the pyrite remediation scheme.

They are in uncharted waters with worry, they are struggling to sleep at night and the anger that comes with that through

l DAMAGED: Creek Lodge no fault of your own by buying a house in good faith. With it now found in a public building, it will show that one in all is impacted by the issue in Clare, we’ll start seeing more properties becoming known to be impacted by this issue as the weeks unfold”.

With public buildings affected, the Kilrush woman said the risk of heavily used buildings collapsing emphasises the need for action from Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien (FF). “It does put the issue to the forefront, to know there were so many homeowners affected had already done that but this does escalate the issue and I just hope the Minister Darragh O’Brien takes heed of our calls, I know I’m not the only one that has been calling for Clare to be included and for it not to be delayed further”.

NEWS 9

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

l LOCAL LEGEND: James Tierney

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James Tierney honoured CIAN O’BROIN

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cianobroin@clareecho.ie

HE memory of James Tierney, known colloquially as a man before his time, will be honoured this weekend through the unveiling of a commemorative sign adorning his birth place.

The project, which has been running behind closed doors for two years, looks to celebrate one of the most memorable characters to ever come from Corofin.

Through the work of James’ granddaughter Lyndsey Tierney and Corofin Tidy Towns Chairperson Joe O’Connell, the life and times of mechanical engineer, inventor, radio host and perfect gentleman James Tierney, will be available for all to see on the cottage style house near the village grotto where he was born, and where his son Dennis currently resides in.

Reflecting on fond memories of her grandfather, having grown up in the same house together, Lyndsey recalled how “he was always making things and building things for me, such as doll houses” and “always wanted to be doing something, especially working with his hands.”

James joined the Irish Army when he was young, immersing himself in electronics and mechanics. Marrying Mary Doherty, he returned to Corofin where he established his own garage and electrical shop, all the while

balancing a family of twelve children. He was the first person to introduce television into the village in the 1960s.

James designed a single engine aeroplane, but his appetite for airtime was quickly curtailed by the local parish priest and sergeant. In response, he decided to build a yellow submarine, that he took out on Lake Inchquin. “James was known as a fantastic storyteller, whereby he could captivate an audience. When it came to mechanics or engineering, he was a man before his time. I remember, growing up here as a kid, in the late 70s, when he made a battery powered car for his son,” Joe noted.

With the story of the submarine reaching a worldwide audience, garnering considerable attention after BBC and RTÉ film crews decided to take a trip down to highlight the hysteria in a quiet North Clare village, James immediately shot to stardom, affirming his status as a local legend. Some of his other notable achievements before his passing in 1995 were, operating a pirate radio station in 1969, running as a Sinn Féin election candidate as well as taking up a mining post in Sierra Leone, West Africa, where he was known locally as ‘Captain James’ and admired by natives.

The unveiling of the sign on his ancestral home will take place in Corofin this coming Saturday at 3.30pm and will be attended by family, storytellers and all the local community. “We are expecting this to increase our heritage and historical tourism here in the village,” Joe stated.

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Burglary probe continues

by PÁRAIC McMAHON GARDAÍ are continuing an investigation into a burglary in Sixmilebridge which took place on Tuesday July 6th.

Two males were observed at the door of a property at Gort an Nuill in Sixmilebridge by the injured party on the day of the burglary.

One of the men was in possession of a metal bat and the other had a baseball bat.

The injured party shouted at the two males who then ran and got into a black BMW 5 series which was parked beside the building. It is believed that the car was either a 2004 or a 2007 model 5 series. Both men drove off with the boot open.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Shannon Garda Station at 061365900.

Feighan to visit Ennis

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

MINISTER of State for Public Health, Well Being and National Drugs Strategy, Frank Feighan (FG) is to visit Clare this Friday.

He will be in Lees Rd at 12:30pm to meet with Clare Sports Partnership who will showcase two projects. The first being an older adults exercise group which is based in Ennis, the training takes place in Lees Rd and is led by John Conroy in conjunction with CSP. Recently purchased disability cycles will also be shown to the Junior Minister.

Members of the public will be able to use the cycles by booking through the Lees Rd system.

Quin water updates completed

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

A MAJOR upgrade of the Quin Wastewater Treatment plant has been completed. €4.2m was invested by Irish Water into the upgrade which was carried out in partnership with Clare County Council. The existing plant was overloaded and as a result was not compliant with EU Urban Wastewater Directives. This upgrade enables it to now serve a population equivalent of 1350, which is double the original plant.

The project involved the construction of a new pumping station at Quin on the same site as the existing Wastewater treatment plant; the installation of new settlement tanks and Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) tanks; new inlet works as well as site landscaping, lighting and security works.

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Vote in favour of higher property tax HOW THEY VOTED FOR:

Cllr Mary Howard (FG), Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG), Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Pat Burke (FG), Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr John Crowe (FG), Cllr Michael Begley (IND), Cllr PJ Ryan (IND), Cllr Pat McMahon (FF), Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF), Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Susan Crawford (GP), Cllr PJ Kelly (FF), Cllr Bill Chambers (FF), Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG), Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF), Cllr Ian Lynch (IND), Cllr Mark Nestor (FF), Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF).

AGAINST:

Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF), Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND)

ABSTENTIONS:

Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), Cllr Ann Norton (IND).

PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

C

LARE councillors have overwhelmingly voted in favour of maintaining the local property tax (LPT) at fifteen percent above the standard rate.

Shannon representatives, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) and Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) were the only county councillors to vote against keeping the higher rate of LPT for 2022 while Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) and Cllr Ann Norton (IND) were absent for Monday’s vote, the remaining 24 elected members of Clare County Council voted to main-

l FUNDING: Only two Clare County Councillors voted against keeping the higher rate of Property tax

tain the same rate as 2021.

Addressing Monday’s meeting of the local authority, Council Chief Executive, Pat Dowling recommended that there be no change to the LPT. He said by keeping an LPT of 15 percent above the standard rate, the Council would have €1.5m which would “critical to meeting those future demands”.

Disagreement with the case put forward was outlined by Cllr McGettigan, “I don’t think it is progressive, it doesn’t take into account the inability of some people to pay the tax”.

Although he admitted to not being a fan of the LPT, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) proposed the same rate be kept to maximise the amount of funding available locally. “Initially it was to be a tax to support local authorities but

it has become a funder of local authorities”. His proposal was seconded by Cllr Joe Cooney (FG).

Central funding from Government has been supplemented by the LPT which was called “a very blunt instrument to extract taxes” by Cllr Flynn.

Having supported the higher rate in 2019 and 2020, he said following “a year and a half of serious restrictions” members of the public may not have adequate means to meet the rate.

He said the additional services promised at local level have not materialised and flagged some of his projects due to benefit from General Municipal Allocation (GMA) funding were left unspent. Of the €10m collected in LPT in Clare, Cllr Flynn said €2m was used to subsidise oth-

er local authorities, “yet again it will be shooting fish in a barrel”.

Four out of ten people in Clare will pay an extra €14 as a result of the higher rate, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) calculated. “I was a staunch objector of the increase to 15 percent but I’ve seen the benefit,” he commented. Additional funding has resulted in “fantastic work” in the Ennis Municipal District, he believed, “we’re providing exceptionally good services”.

After the 24-2 vote was announced at Monday’s virtual meeting, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) remarked, “If any councillor is stuck for projects, I’ve a load in East Clare that need doing, I will gladly take them” to which Cllr Gerry Flynn replied, “personal comments like that should not be allowed”.

83 abortions in Clare last year

by CIAN O’BROIN A TOTAL of 83 terminations of pregnancy took place within the State last year by women registered as living in Clare, a Department of Health annual report has revealed.

The published report released last month in accordance with The Health (Regulation of Termination of Pregnancy) Act 2018, details a figure of 6,557 terminations of pregnancy that took place within the state in 2020.

Clare accounted for 83 of last year’s total, an increase of 10 from the previous year (73).

An emphatic Yes vote was recorded in Clare during the May 2018 Referendum, tallying 64 per cent of the vote within the county at the time.

Dublin at 2,414 recorded the highest figures for the second year in a row. Cork (645), Limerick (278) and Galway (274) all recorded the next highest figures. Leitrim (28) had the lowest number.

The report which covers the time period

between January 1, 2020 and December 31, 2020 showed that out of a total of 6,557 terminations of pregnancy, 20 were as a result of risk to life, five a risk to life or health in an emergency, 97 in a condition likely to lead to death of foetus and 6,455 to an early pregnancy.

January (709), March (654) and April (639) accounted for the top three highest recorded figures nationwide, whilst December (327) recoded the lowest number of terminations of pregnancy.

NEWS 11

THURSDAY, JULY 08 2021

Days Out in Clare that our Readers Loved

Sponsored by

Some of the comments from our readers on what they have enjoyed around Clare…

We recently asked readers what they loved most during their trips around Clare. Here is just some of their feedback.

Clare’s lesser-known treasures are great for days out if you want to avoid the beaches and the busier areas, just for now.

We took a stroll through Mooghaun Woods, Newmarket on Fergus, and afterwards visited the beautiful Quin Abbey, stopping at Quin for takeaway coffee and treats. It was a really enjoyable afternoon.

12 O’Clock Hills, Belvoir, Sixmilebridge is wonderful to visit at any time, on your own or with a group. I love the variety it offers, with its forest walks, its fairyland, picnic areas, and different loop walks and trail routes. Lots of parking available too. It is very well maintained and is constantly being improved. I love it.

Evelyn, from West Clare

Teresa, from South Clare

The Gleninagh Loop Walk in the Burren was a straightforward track to the postlockdown paradise. The extraordinary landscape of Burren was like a restorative balm for the soul, and the contrast between the silvery landscape and blue water was particularly soothing.

We loved the wonderful Cliff Walks in Kilkee. The panoramic views were breathtaking.

We followed this up with a delicious takeaway lunch from the Pantry on O’Curry Street – where we got the nicest homemade soup we’ve had in years.

Trudy, from Ennis

Ance, from Ennis

I had a fantastic day out in Clare. We started out with a flight simulator at Shannon Aviation Museum, flying to Stansted without ever leaving the ground! We then went for a walk in Cratloe Woods, stopping at the lake to take in the views. We ended our day by enjoying an outdoor lunch at Durty Nellys.

Sarah, from Ireland

My trip from Doolin to Inis Oirr with other mums and their kids was amazing. We visited the island’s wonderful sandy playground, and took a horse and cart trip around the island. We had a picnic on the fabulous white sandy beach overlooking the turquoise Atlantic ocean, with the Island of Ireland in the distance! It is surprising that more don’t experience this day out. I would recommend it to anyone.

Visiting Clare and Need to Keep in Contact with your Work?

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Laura, from Ennis

The Poulnabrone Dolmen is my favourite place. I can visit it again and again, and every time the experience is different. Standing against the amazing Burren landscape, there are so many secrets it could tell if stones could talk.

Keeping it simple, the family loved spending the day at the beach in Lahinch, followed up by fresh fish and chips and ice cream desserts from Spooneys.

Soo Ling, from East Clare

Stephen, from West Clare

Although I’m a Clare man (well, a blow-in!), exploring the County during lockdown was an eye-opener to the simple things we can do without travelling far. This included taking a trip to West Clare for the “catch of the day“ from the food truck at Spanish Point to enjoying the ‘far’ east of the county and the majesty of Slieve Bearnagh and kayaking on Lough Derg.

Tim, from East Clare

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12 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Ennis Chamber launch Business Excellence awards STUART HOLLY

E

editor@clareecho.ie

NNIS Chamber launched the ‘Clare Business Excellence & Resilience Awards 2021’ yesterday (July 14). Clare County Council is the main sponsor and will present the overall ‘Clare Business of the Year 2021’ Award, at the Awards Gala to take place at glór Theatre on October 28.

After a year’s absence due to the pandemic, Ennis Chamber President Darragh McAllister commented, “We were determined not to let this year slip by without celebrating the achievements and resilience of the business community in County Clare. We are therefore delighted to launch this event and look forward to lively engagement from businesses across Co. Clare over the coming weeks and months. These awards are about focusing on the positive.

Every business was impacted by the pandemic, we all had to learn new ways to deliver our business model, while some businesses were forced to pivot just to survive.”

Two new categories have been introduced to this year’s awards list to reflect the changing business landscape. The ‘Resilience Award’, sponsored by Cup Print will recognise a business that pivoted, modified

lRESILIENCE: Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Marian Duggan, Ennis Chamber, An Cathlaoirleach, Clare County Council, PJ Ryan, Darragh McAllister, Ennis Chamber President, Sheila Lynch, Ennis Chamber, Liam Conneally, Clare county council and Ian McMorrough, Director Area South Bank of Ireland

Photo by Arthur Ellis

their business model or introduced a new service, in order to adapt to changed conditions and demands.

The ‘Commitment to Training Award’, sponsored by Regional Skills Mid-West, will celebrate businesses that leveraged readily available training opportunities since March 2020, to ramp up management and employee skills. The

CATEGORIES AND SPONSORS l BEST GREEN & SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES Sponsored by Rengen Power l BEST MICRO BUSINESS (employing 10 people or less) Sponsored by Clare Local Enterprise Office l BUSINESS SUPPORTING COMMUNITY Sponsored by Essilor l CLARE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES EXCELLENCE AWARD Sponsored by AIB

l BEST TOURISM EXPERIENCE IN CLARE Sponsored by LIT l BEST HOSPITALITY Sponsored by Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau

l BEST USE OF DIGITAL MARKETING & SOCIAL MEDIA Sponsored by The Clare Echo l CLARE RETAILER OF THE YEAR Sponsored by Ability IT Solutions l CUSTOMER SERVICE EXCELLENCE Sponsored by McKeogh Gallagher Ryan Accountants l COMMITMENT TO TRAINING Sponsored by Regional Skills Mid-West l RESILIENCE AWARD Sponsored by Cup Print

l BEST VOLUNTARY/COMMUNITY GROUP IN CLARE Sponsored by St Francis Credit Union l OVERALL WINNER – ‘CLARE BUSINESS OF THE YEAR 2021’ Sponsored by the awards lead sponsor - Clare County Council

pandemic has taught us we need to be prepared for, and to be agile and imaginative in our response to change. Accredited training is key to that preparedness. This category is open to businesses from all sectors and to companies large and small.

Cllr. PJ Ryan, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council, congratulated Ennis Chamber on launching the Clare Business Excellence & Resilience Awards 2021. “It’s important to recognise and celebrate the achievements of our business community here in Co. Clare. So many of them reacted positively to what were very difficult circumstances. These awards will provide a great showcase for the businesses that showed determination, fighting spirit and innovation.

He added, “Clare County Council is very pleased to take on the leadership role of overall sponsor, as we have done in recent years.

This year more than any I can remember in my lifetime we need to salute the tenacity and the bravery of our business community, whose owners and managers put their shoulder to the wheel to ensure their business come out the other side of the pandemic stronger and primed for success.”

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council, acknowledged the challenging year experienced by all businesses in Clare.

“As a local authority we have played a leading role in ensuring all businesses in Clare were able to access appropriate financial supports under the various Covid schemes, this included the Restart Grant, rates waivers, outdoor dining schemes,

business continuity planning, mentoring support and funding to enable our local businesses develop their online sales capability. We also worked with our local communities and businesses to develop appropriate solutions for the re-opening of retail and hospitality.

While more challenges lie ahead, it is important we recognise the proactive response Clare businesses have demonstrated to an unprecedented event.

“This year’s awards are an important step to acknowledge not

only the individual winners, but also the collective resilience of our many businesses. We will emerge better and stronger.”

Margaret O’Brien, CEO., Ennis Chamber said, “These awards would not be possible without the support of our sponsors. Some have supported us for many years, and we thank them sincerely for their continued support, while others, including Rengen Power, Regional Skills Mid-West and Shannon Region Conference & Sports Bureau are new sponsors whom we warmly welcome on board. With a comprehensive list of categories open to businesses large and small from all sectors, we look forward to receiving entries which can be completed online at: www.ennischamber.ie/ services/buinsess-awards.

Independent adjudicators Spotcheck Northern Ireland will complete mystery visits for categories involving retail, hospitality, tourism and customer service. For categories depending on written submissions an independent expert panel has been established to adjudicate. The closing date for mystery visit categories is August 16, 2021, while the closing date for written submission categories is August 23, 2021.

Finalists will be announced in late September. Winners will be revealed and awards will be presented at a ceremony at glór Theatre on October 28, with stand-up comedian Colm O’Regan as MC. The event will also be broadcast to encourage and facilitate maximum participation.

lSUPPORT LOCAL: Darragh McAllister, Ennis Chamber President

with Stuart Holly, Clare Echo Editor. The Clare Echo are proud media partners of the Business Excellence and Resilience Awards

Photo by Arthur Ellis

NEWS 13

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

‘Micheál Martin should step down from his position’ Clare FF Chair calls for Taoiseach to resign & ex councillor urges Varadkar to consider his position

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

T

paraic@clareecho.ie

AOISEACH Micheál Martin (FF) should step down from his position the Chairman of Fianna Fáil’s Clare Comhairle Dáil Cheantair has said while an ex Fine Gael councillor in the county believes Leo Varadkar (FG) should also be considering his position.

Tensions are high in the political sphere in the aftermath of the weekend’s Dublin Bay South by-election which saw Ivana Bacik (LAB) secure the seat vacated by ex Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy (FG). Fine Gael’s inability to retain the seat in a stronghold of theirs plus Fianna Fáil polling 4.8 percent, a drop in support for the Greens and Sinn Féin missing out on a chance to add to their presence in the Dáil among the main talking points.

Ex councillor, Bill Slattery (FG) believed

l OPINION: Bill Slattery (FG)

post-mortems were necessary to ascertain why former TD Kate O’Connell (FG) was not put on the ticket. “The last nine by elections haven’t been won by the Government in place at the time, I don’t know if it is something for Leo Varadkar to think about himself, it doesn’t look well for him that we lost the seat.

I definitely think Kate O’Connell was shafted from being put on the ticket”.

Swing-gate saga and Maria Bailey’s subsequent departure was also referenced by the Lahinch man who felt a change in the format used to select party leaders was needed in Fine Gael. “Leo Varadkar will have to personally think of his own position as leader of Fine Gael, he should consider his own position”.

Mike Enright (FF), Chairman of Fianna Fáil’s Clare Comhairle Dáil Cheantair expressed his worry at the direction the party was heading in. He said the leadership of Micheál Martin was rightly under scrutiny again. “I think it is time for Micheál Martin to move on, that is my own opinion. We have lost our identity as a party, the housing crisis is the biggest issue in the country and health is not in a good place either. Fianna Fáil are involved in the last two Governments and we don’t seem to be able to get on top of these issues at all”.

“The sooner change comes in the party the better. We need a new direction, we need to identify who we are and where we’re going.

We’re connecting with young people, people don’t see us as relevant and don’t recognise Micheál Martin as relevant. Charlie McConalgue said that people who were critical of Micheál Martin and Fianna Fáil would want to cop themselves on, a lot of Fianna Fáil members have taken offence to that myself included, I think Charlie McConalgue would want to cop himself on with regards fisheries and agriculture in this country and get in touch with reality and people on the ground,” the Newmarket-on-Fergus native added.

A member of the Labour Party since 2016, ex Clare hurler Darach Honan (LAB) was confident Baciik’s election would be a big boost to the party’s future. “I think there is

'I won't force junior staff to police indoor dining regulations' A TUAMGRANEY restaurant owner has said she will not be forcing her junior staff to police newly proposed indoor dining regulations, writes Cian O’Broin.

Nuala O’Brien has issued a cry of “leave us closed or open us up but stop coming up with regulations that are invasive.”

Under the new plan, due to take effect on either July 23 or at the latest July 26, those who are vaccinated or have recovered from COVID-19 in the past six months must show proof of this to access

indoor hospitality. Those under the age of 18 can accompany vaccinated adults, whilst those adults who are currently unvaccinated are not permitted indoors.

There is a time limit of one hour and 45 minutes to be imposed. Those who forge COVID documentation, are susceptible to a fine of €2,500, whilst premises found flouting rules will receive an even bigger financial penalty. Bars and restaurants must self-regulate and enforce these rules themselves.

She stated: “It’s not practi-

cal to think that I am going to give my 15 young staff members the job of interviewing people and finding out if they are vaccinated.

People can get false certs. Are we supposed to be experts in what is false and what is not?

“Moving onto the guards, are they going to be coming into my premises on a night where there may be a birthday celebration for an 80-year-old relative and family are enjoying it. Are they going to say, ‘everyone at the table produce proof of vaccination’,” Nuala added.

l TENISONS: Mike Enright (left) with Taoiseach Micheál Martin

definitely a potential bounce and you will see that. Alan Kelly is doing a fantastic job as leader, Ivana Bacik coming in will raise the profile of the party overall, she is a very likeable candidate and someone who does great work, Fianna Fáil and their performance being so poor I think many of the more prag-

matic Fianna Fáil supporters will move towards Labour and Labour will fill that void Fianna Fáil will leave if they continue on this downward spiral”.

Former Mayor of Clare, Patricia McCarthy (IND) predicted that the party composition of TDs in Clare was unlikely to change. She said, “I’ve failed to understand since 2011 that Fine Gael have not been touched with many of the decisions that they were responsible for making, Labour took the brunt of the decisions in 2016 whereas Fine Gael were the majority party, this time round they are fairly balanced so it will depend on how people perceive them at the time the election is called. If you were to go on Dublin Bay South, there are two parties in trouble and that is Fianna Fáil and the Greens but in a General Election that could change, Fine Gael are still managing to keep aloof of any fallout”.

Barry O’Donovan who left the Green Party in recent months felt the 8 percent first preference vote received by the party was “potentially optimistic” to describe the current feeling towards them.

A Sinn Féin representative was not available to speak when contacted by The Clare Echo.

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14 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Air services at Shannon set to double PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

A l FLYING IT: Declan Lynch, Airport Police Fireman; Amanda Orpen, Retail Sales Assistant, Shannon Duty Free; Isabel Harrison, B2B Manager, Aviation Development; Brian Maloney, Airport Search Unit, Screening Supervisor APFS; Maureen Lynn, Airport Search Unit Officer, Screening; Philip O’Dea, Airport Police Fireman.

IR services at Shannon Airport are set to double from eight to sixteen in time for the lifting of the non-essential travel ban on the 19th July with an increase in destinations, services and frequencies.

Ryanair currently operate eight services from Shannon which recommenced on 15th June to Barcelona-Reus, Stansted, Gatwick, Kaunas, Krakow, Wroclaw, Warsaw-Modlin and Manchester.

A further eight services will commence to holiday sunspots including the newly announced Corfu route and Faro, Lanzarote, Malaga, Palma and Tenerife, with one additional new route to be announced shortly.

In all, a total of 72 weekly flights will operate through Shannon up to the end of October. Ryanair will also begin operating a new Turin service from December to capture the

winter ski market.

CEO of Shannon Group, Mary Considine stated, “the reopening of international travel is a very significant step forward not only for Shannon Airport, but for the thousands of jobs and businesses along the Wild Atlantic Way and mid-west, that depend on these services to support their operations.

“With the introduction of the EU Digital Covid Certificate, together with the roll-out of the vaccination programme, which is powering ahead, there is a real sense of optimism in the air. Although there is a long road ahead of us to get airport passenger numbers back to anything like 2019 levels, it is important to acknowledge these milestones on our journey to recover and rebuild our business,” the Lissycasey woman added.

She confirmed that a new marketing strategy is to be launched in anticipation for the reopening of international travel. “We are launching a two-prong marketing strategy with targeted radio, poster, press advertising, digital and social media marketing to welcome passengers back to Shannon Airport, and promote our air services”.

Shannon requested to become Ireland’s Electric Airport

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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Marquee is Dining Only and reservations required Beer Garden & Car Park Areas will be a Walk in System Full Takeaway Menu available Daily Order online: www.shannonspringshotel.com or by calling 061.364047 / 083.0703662 Offering Deliveries: Thursday to Sunday 12.30pm to 9pm.

A REQUEST to designate Shannon Airport as Ireland’s Electric Airport has been issued to the Government and the Department of Transport.

It follows a motion by Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) before Clare County Council which was passed by elected representatives on Monday.

He stated, “In order to assist Ireland achieve climate action targets in reducing emissions from aviation that Clare County Council request the Government, its related Government Departments, and Shannon Group plan for designation and development of Shannon Airport as Ireland’s Electric Airport using green electricity to power green aviation initially short haul and long haul in the future with battery improvement”. € 3 . 6 b n was added to Ireland’s gross domestic product (GDP) by Shannon Airport prior to COVID-19, the Ennis representative said. He highlighted that the aviation industry had

to adapt because of climate change, “it must decarbonise”.

Flynn referred to plans from Irish aviation companies to introduce electric planes, “we need to start building the infrastructure to service the electric aviation industry”.

Last month, aircraft leasing company Avolon and Vertical Aerospace announced a “ground-breaking” $2 billion order for up to 500 electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft.

The agreement will introduce the ultrashort-haul aircraft category to commercial aviation, which Avolon said was a game changing development that will revolutionise air travel with zero emissions aircraft.

As part of the order, both companies are to work in collaboration throughout the development, road map to certification and subsequent commer-

cial roll-out of the VA-X4 aircraft which is a piloted, zero emissions electric Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicle.

It will be capable of travelling over 200 miles an hour, with a range of over 100 miles and capacity for four passengers and a pilot. The aircraft takes off vertically which enables it to operate in and out of cities and other confined locations. The VAX4 is 100 times quieter and safer than a helicopter.

Ennis native, Dómhnal Slattery is CEO of Avolon.

He has predicted that before the end of this decade there will be zero emission urban air mobility, enabled by eVTOLs, to play an increasingly important role in the global commercial aviation market.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) seconded Cllr Flynn’s proposal in what he labelled “very timely”.

Slattery’s involvement was lauded by Cllr Pat McMahon (FF).

“It is great to see a Clareman over a major worldwide company to be at the forefront in ordering this aircraft”. l GREEN: (left) Avalon CEO Dómhnal Slattery

15

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

in association with

Lifford businesses ‘out of the loop’ with no lighting l Lifford

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

L

paraic@clareecho.ie

IFFORD businesses are “feeling a little out of the loop” through the absence of hanging festoon lights.

Installation of hanging lights for the summer months was requested by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) at the July meeting of the Ennis Municipal District.

Senior executive officer, Leonore O’Neill replied that lighting provided for outdoor dining in Ennis was facilitated through a €200,000 Fáilte Ireland grant. “If an alternative source of funding becomes available, we are happy to consider the request”.

Lights already exist in the area but it is a matter of getting them reconnected, Cllr Howard stated.

“The businesses in the Lifford area are feeling a little out of the loop”.

She acknowledged that the town was looking “very well” but outlined “they feel forgotten about” outside the centre of Ennis. “They are rate payers as well, they are trying to keep their businesses open”.

Costings can be completed for the requested location, senior executive officer Eamon O’Dea informed the meeting.

Both Cllr Flynn and Cllr Howard expressed their willingness to contribute to funding to see the lights in place.

Disabled parking review underway

by PÁRAIC McMAHON DROP kerb adjustments to aid accessibility and mobility in Ennis has been deferred while a review on disabled parking spaces at the main parking spots in the county town is underway.

Location and provision of disabled spaces is under review in Francis St, the Friary car park, Abbey St car park and Lower Market St in Ennis.

Public realm works as part of the Parnell St laneways and bow-ways plus the proposed works at O’Connell Square, O’Connell St and Barrack St “all are fully accessible with shared surfaces, table top crossing points or dropped kerbs provided,” he added.

These alterations “will provide greater accessibility.

The items listed in the Age Friendly walkability audit and previous accessibility audits

are being examined and works scheduled”.

At the July meeting of the Ennis MD, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) requested that kerb heights at junctions be lowered “to facilitate wheeled access and mobility” and that a survey be carried out to determine where this can take place. The proposal was seconded by Cllr Ann Norton (IND) who lauded Clare County Council’s efforts to improve accessibility.

O’Dea replied, “It is the view of the Ennis MD that resources are not available at this time to carry out a survey to identify locations where drop kerbs are required.

There are locations where crossing points are being considered that will require detailed design due to their position relative to roundabouts or particular junction types”.

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20 FEATURES

THURSDAY, JUL 16 2021

GREEN CLARE

Beachcomber’s dog had nose for €15,000 ambergris treasure CIAN O’BROIN

B

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

EACHCOMBING is an activity that consists of perusing the intertidal area along coastlines. For many it’s a pursuit, for others its stops nothing short of a passion. Pat Lillis has been combing the beaches of his native Kilkee and the West Coast of Ireland for decades.

First documented as an occupation in Richard Henry Dana Jr.’s Two Years Before the Mast in 1840, beachcombers search for items of interest, value or utility. For Pat, his time is spent seeking out and selling Ambergris, a sperm whale by-product used as a fixity in the perfume industry. His biggest find was valued at €15,000.

Pat first became acquainted with beachcombing whilst working at the Golf Club in Kilkee, where his daily commute afforded the leisure of traipsing the beach for items of interest. His first find was timber that washed up in storms between 1988 and 1990 as well as rudder from yacht races along the coast, earning him “a few quid.” He credits his deep-seated interest to a dear friend, Sean Kearney, a lifelong beachcomber and shopkeeper within the community.

“Sean practically owned Chimney Bay in Kilkee and anything that was found there he claimed.

He was at it up until his retirement in his 70s. One time we found Free Drifting Oceanic Buoys owned by the British Military. The red warning storms are what were good to us. They disgorge Ambergris that has been buried at sea for decades. It usually makes its way inland from decomposing whales but often, would not make its way to shore for a thousand years,” he stated.

Pat found his first piece of Ambergris nine years ago. Last year he lost his beloved black Labrador Dash, who for more than eight years “could sniff out Ambergris under loose rocks” or “three or four inches beneath the sand” and was always “handsomely awarded with treats.” Ambergris is only

produced in rare circumstances and forms over time, as hundreds of squid beaks and debris pass through into the digestive system of sperm whales. Mixing with faeces, a boulder is formed that obstructs the whale’s rectum.

Either through a fatal rupture or excretion, the valuable by-product makes its way out. Ambergris is only found in the intestine of between one to five per cent of sperm whales.

Since losing Dash, Pat at one point went six months without finding any ambergris, whereas with his beloved Labrador he would “never go more than two days without finding anything.” He is currently training up two puppies, a brother and a sister, with one of the dogs just landing their first find of a 0.5 piece of Ambergris. Three years ago, Pat featured

on a documentary called ‘Nose’ with perfume giant Dior, spending three days with a French film crew in Mayo. Citing a “complex industry”, Pat admitted that despite featuring with the world’s largest luxury group, he “has never sold to them” as he “never knows the end user” from the product he sells.

Environmental and legal concerns began to raise their heads around the retrieval of Ambergris several years ago, Pat informed.

“In the United States and Australia, Ambergris is a bit of a grey area.

Until 2013, it was unsure whether it could be sold legally here. The Ambergris I sell, which is a beach class type, is legal as it is defined as a waste product.” Under EU law, all whales and dolphins species are strictly protected and international trade in whale products is banned. Pat pointed to an interesting case in Yemen, where fishermen cut Ambergris from a whale they had captured. This Ambergris would be of low value, as the wax like substance requires exposure to salt and sun in order to form into its most valuable white composition. The 2013 Amendments were introduced to discourage the hunting of whales for the valuable waste product.

Regarded as a hugely competitive industry, the beaches where Pat spends his time would “often be inundated with beachcombers.”

A portion of Pat’s day is devoted to replying to email queries from

lTREASURE SEEKER: Dash the Labrador and (above) ambergris

individuals all over the world, who are looking for the West Clare man to verify if something is actually Ambergris.

“There are fabulous people involved in the trade but unfortunately there are many people out there selling stuff that is not Ambergris. It’s certainly not simple to identify. It is often thought of as black or white, but it actually comes in all colours. Most im-

portantly, it should float in fresh water. One time we found a load of crushed Ambergris on a beach in Donegal that had been rolled over by a tractor tyre. In order to identify what material was Ambergris, we put it in a hotel sink and whatever bits floated we decided to keep.”

For more information or to shop his range of products, visit www.

CelticAmbergris.com

Arts & Entertainment 17

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Ennis showgrounds to host open air tributes concert STUART HOLLY

E

editor@clareecho.ie

NNIS will host an open air concert in early August, with organisers anticipating a more relaxed atmosphere to that seen at a recent pilot outdoor music event in Kilmainham, Dublin.

A number of tribute acts to some of the world’s most high profile musicians and bands will take to the stage at Ennis Showgrounds on August 6 and 7, 2021, with tickets on sale now.

Among those playing include tribute acts to ABBA (ABBA Mania), Johnny Cash (Cash Returns), Garth Brooks (Friends In

Low Places), Queen (Miracle Queen), Shania Twain (Shania Twin) and U2 (U2UK).

Addressing the issue of social distancing, organisers says the “venue is quite big, and can easily accommodate whatever the government guidelines are at the time.

“A detailed Covid Plan is in place to ensure all safety measures take place.”

They added, “The exact guidelines will be forthcoming, and … we certainly do not anticipate a replication of the conditions of the pilot event [in Kilmainham].

The event will run each day from 4pm to finish as an outdoor event. First acts on stage at 6pm.

Food and alcohol (subject to license approval) will be served at the event.

For tickets, visit truetributes.ie.

lDANCING QUEENS: ABBAmania

A SINTERELLA STORY Historians needed to contribute to countywide heritage mapviewer

by CIAN O’BROIN

lCONTEMPORARY ART: glór has reopened its doors with a fascinating new exhibition by Martha Cashman, Annita McKee and Insaf Yalcinkaya. Sinterella is a group exhibition produced to explore the idea of telling stories through material. Sinterella will be accompanied by a series of free workshops for children and young people. The exhibition will run until August 22. Visit glor.ie for more.

PLANS to develop a county-wide heritage mapviewer are currently underway, as local historians and community groups are being asked to contribute to Clare’s rich repository of heritage.

The project is being undertaken by Heritage Mapping Consultant Pat Reid, who developed the Burren Geopark LIFE Mapviewer available on HeritageMaps.ie, and is now looking to roll it out county-wide.

Pat hopes that local heritage groups, Tidy Towns and communities will rally together to have a say in the process. “I want communities to have a say in it. Maybe there are specific walking trails, publications or already completed heritage audits that are in non-digital format. There could be groups in small villages or towns in Clare

with local books written about the area. The plan is for all of this to be salvaged and then digitized,” he stated.

Pat also cited potential benefits to tourism within the county from the heritage mapviewer, adding that massive genealogical research which has already taken place by the Council at the Local Studies Centre in Ennis will create a great itinerary and will also have an environmental slant where researchers can find data on a changing environment over time. The aim is to produce a platform that hosts “everything people need from a heritage perspective” and a “full repository that involves local communities.”

“County Clare is teeming with history. As well as natural beauty and uniqueness particularly within the Burren, which is unlike any site worldwide, there is a lot of

tragedy in Clare. This comes from the famine as well as from the civil war. In my experience, I would say that County Clare has 40 per cent more natural heritage than the rest of the country,” Pat, who’s partner’s family comes from the village of Cree, stated.

He hopes that the process evolves organically over time, and that over the course of the next few years, new data and research will be added to the mapviewer.

As part of the upcoming Heritage Week which takes place between August 14-22, Pat hopes to produce a timeline of old maps in County Clare, which will help to date when certain villages and towns came into existence. With a small voluntary group already in place for the project, Pat hopes that anyone else that wants to get involved will get in touch with Clare County Council.

18 FEATURES

Summer hope

RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

A

S WE continue into the summer months we hope that it will bring with it a vast celebration of colour, such as colour in our landscape, in the flowers we grow, in the clothes we wear, in the food we eat and in the scenery we see. It is a time which showcases an immense feeling of joy in our world and environment. It is also a time where we can now after the terrible months of lockdowns reunite with family, friends and loved ones and spend time outdoors from dawn to dusk (when Irish weather allows it).

The break from school and work can also allow us time to reflect on what has been over the last twenty or so months of the coronavirus and most importantly live and savour the present moment.

And as we hope and pray yet again to re-emerge more fully out of lockdown in the coming weeks because of this dreadful Coronavirus, we continue to try and keep our resolutions to keep our loved one's safe. We also keep trying to do personal things like get fit and more healthier and my motto of sorts when trying to lose weight goes as follows: ‘A moment on the lips is a lifetime on the hips.’ It meant that an act that took just an instant could remain with you forever. I like to apply this phrase to the process of prayer. A prayer takes just a matter of seconds to utter, but its influence on our lives can be permanent. ‘A moment on our lips is a lifetime on our souls.’ A simple prayer can change us; can lead us on the path to healing ourselves and our world.

So pray. Pray for peace, pray for healing, pray for a cure to the coronavirus, pray for love, pray for mercy, pray for forgiveness, pray for advances in science, pray for the strength to eradicate poverty and disease, pray to overcome injustice, pray for resolve, pray for others, pray for acceptance, pray for our poor, abandoned and homeless, pray for yourself and pray for hope in a good and safe future for all. Pray to God with all your heart and soul, and then gather up your might to meet the challenges that lie ahead and we all know at this present time in our wonderful county and country that we need that help and strength to make the lives of our children, our elderly and our loved ones brighter, so let's get doing it for our beautiful children and elderly parents and grandparents.

Prayer

All people of faith struggle at times to maintain a meaning-

ful prayer life, a loss felt all the more keenly in times like ours of coronavirus, confusion, political turbulence, injustices of all sorts and global calamity. Prayer is not a passive activity. Prayer awakens us. Our eyes begin to notice beauty where we never noticed it before.

Our hearts begin to feel compassion, forgiveness and mercy we never knew we had.

Our priorities shift. As we talk to God, we receive the encouragement to live up to the potential inside us. Soon we start to see beyond ourselves into the world that is waiting for our help and is suffering from the fears and loss of life by the coronavirus. I believe God is listening. And I believe God answers us. God’s answer to our prayers may be very different from the answer we were or are searching for. God’s reply might come as the strength to fight on. It may come as the courage to face what we have feared. God’s answer may be the ability to accept what we have been denying. Or it may appear as hope in the face of despair. We are not alone. God is present in our lives.

When we stop bargaining with God and start opening up our souls to God, our prayers suddenly start working. We can pray for strength and receive strength. Prayer is ultimately an experience, not a request.

It is a sense of being connected, of being part of something larger than ourselves. It is an attempt to be in the presence of God. A story from my Nana Scully's prayer book might help explain.

Hope starts with You

Be the one who comforts, consoles and listens, and you will be comforted, consoled and heard. Be the one who loves and cares, and you will be loved and cared for️. Be the one who supports, helps and gives, and you will be supported and blessed. Be the one who encourages, and you will receive encouragement. Be the one who is kind and caring, and you will have kindness and care shown to you. Be the one who is considerate, and you will receive consideration.

Be the one who nurtures and is good to nature and animals, and nature and animals in turn will be good to you. Be the one who shows admiration and you will be admired. Be the one who values truth and respect, and you will be respected. Be the one who takes action for the good of others, and you will move life forward.

Be the one that does good things for Our World, and our world will help you to achieve good things. Be the one who shows mercy and com-

passion, and you will have mercy and compassion shown to you. Be the one who prays and lights candles for others, and you will be heard and have your prayers answered. Be the one who shows courage, and you will overcome your fears. Be the one who is honest in all your dealings in life, and your life will be one of truth.

Be the one who lends a helping hand, and many hands will help you when in need. Be the one who lifts others up and higher, and your life will be rich. Be the one who brings and makes peace, and your world will have as its core peacefulness.

Be the one who shows real forgiveness, and you will also be forgiven.

Be the one filled with gratitude and thanksgiving, and there will be no end to the things for which you'll be thankful. Be the one who lives with joy, with hope, with courage, with love, with purpose, as your own light brightly shines. Be, in every moment the special and precious someone you are truly meant to Be.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, don't ever forget for even a second how very important and how very special each and every one of us are.

Please try to pray, hope and love deeply from your heart always and for the good of everyone. In the end, the goal of real life is Love. The measure of our maturity is our love for God and our love for one another.

If we fail in our love we have missed what it means to be a truly good person. The following prayer is a Summer Blessing which draws upon this moment for reflection over the weeks ahead.

"May we make our homes places of relaxation, joy, hope, love, peace and safety. May we be generous and considerate, not thinking only about ourselves, but helping others enjoy the blessings of the summertime.

Lord God, Creator of all things, guide our steps and strengthen our hearts during these months of summer and holidays. Grant us refreshment of mind and body.

May we constantly strive to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our loved ones and in the world around us as we hopefully enjoy the warmer days of summertime. And always remember that, One song can spark a moment; One flower can wake the dream.

One tree can start a forest, One bird can herald spring. One smile begins a friendship, One handclasp lifts a soul. One star can guide a ship at sea, One word can frame the goal.

One vote can change a nation, One sunbeam lights a room. One candle wipes out darkness, One laugh will conquer gloom. One step must start each journey; One word must start each prayer. One hope will raise our spirits; One touch can show you care. One voice can speak with wisdom. One heart can know what's true. One life can make the difference; you see it's up to You! Amen."

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

NCBI show off new sustainable store

lOPEN: NCBI Ennis shop manager Mairead Lavery and volunteers cut the ribbon on their new store

ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie

N

CBI (National Council for the Blind of Ireland) is celebrating the relocation of its Ennis shop to Quay House, Wood Quay where a stronger emphasis on sustainability is clearly visible.

Beverley Scallan, Head of Retail, said, “Opening this shop is a fantastic step forward for NCBI. We have transformed what has become the norm for NCBI stores throughout the country, and with this new look, I hope the NCBI store will become a cornerstone of the community as it has in so many other locations across the country. All aspects of the shop fit-out are made from reusable and recyclable raw materials.

In addition, the shop will sell quality preloved clothing, accessories, and hidden gems.

So, by supporting our shops, customers not only generate

funds for our services but also support our drive for more sustainable fashion and furniture. We urge shoppers to pop in and see what is on offer and feel free to donate any clothes or unwanted gifts.

All donations are gratefully received.”

A spokesperson for NCBI added: "NCBI is delighted its 130 shops have been doing so well since reopening following the easing of Covid19 restrictions in May. This would not have been possible without the incredible dedication of the shop volunteers. NCBI’s chain of shops play a vital and integral part in the charity’s overall fundraising efforts, allowing the national sight loss agency to provide vital lifechanging services to the over 54,000 people who are blind or vision impaired, many of whom live in Clare."

If you are interested in volunteering at NCBI Ennis, please contact Pauleen at pauleen.byrne@ncbi.ie or call 087 7083871.

Safety hazards flagged DRIVERS are travelling at a higher speed and more erratically since restrictions have eased, an Ennis representative has claimed, writes Páraic McMahon.

Speaking at the July meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) shared his concern that motorists had adapted bad habits since returning to the roads in greater numbers following a series of lockdowns. “The speed that cars are travelling at is higher with people back on the road since the lockdown,”

he also remarked that drivers were more erratic behind the wheel.

He appealed to the Ennis MD to complete works over the summer school holiday period “to reduce the current road safety hazard being experienced by Doora National School going children due to both speed and volume of vehicles at that location, and that the works would also address the winter localized flooding at the location which at times forces children out onto the road carriageway”.

COMMUNITY 19

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Community ENNIS

CONTACT

NEWSDESK 065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

LIT UPSKILLING FUNDING

LIMERICK Institute of Technology (LIT) has been awarded almost €1.8 million in funding as part of a Government programme aimed at providing part-time, upskilling and reskilling opportunities in areas of growth in the region.

These Springboard+ funded programmes are aimed at those currently in employment, those returning to education and unemployed applicants; and will provide between 90% and 100% funding support to upskill for future job prosperity. Level 6 Springboard programmes will be free to all successful applicants, while Level 7, 8 and 9 programmes will be 90% funded for employed applicants and 100% funded for unemployed applicants.

There will be up to 700 Springboard funded places on offer in LIT for September 2021.

Dean of Flexible and Work Based Learning

and Director Industry Engagement, Seamus Hoyne, said, “Springboard+ programmes provide an ideal mechanism for those seeking to upskill or reskill and as the majority of our programmes are blended or online, they are much more accessible to a wider audience. Our Springboard+ programmes form part of a wide variety of programmes within the Department of Flexible Learning.

We respond to the needs of the regions and society to ensure we facilitate sustainable economic development.”

Springboard+ is co funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union.

In total €1,776,700 has been approved by the Higher Education Authority (HEA) as part of the Springboard+ initiative to deliver these part-time, flexible, upskilling programmes at LIT in September.

Full list of LIT Springboard+ funded programmes available at https://lit.ie

COUNTYWIDE DEFIBRILLATOR FUNDING

lBEST WISHES: Ennis Town FC chairman TC Considine wishes Sarah Coote well on her retirement following many years coaching with the club

COROFIN PIETA HOUSE FUNDRAISER

COROFIN GAA Club are putting mental health to the forefront this weekend, as they embark on a 24-hour fundraiser for a vital suicide awareness organisation, writes Cian O’Broin.

Last year, the club raised €16,000 for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland (CFI), as 50 adult club members ascended Mullaghmore in the Burren, whilst soloing a football or sliotar. This year, the club intends to raise awareness on mental health and suicide by raising €5000 for Pieta House Ireland.

This year’s event, which takes place as a 24hour run or walk 5k challenge between 6pm Saturday July 17 – 6pm Sunday July 18, will “ensure that every cent is well earned” in an extended invitation to club and community members “at home or abroad,” club chairperson Brian Gillespie explained.

Mr. Gillespie, who has held his position for six years stated, “We have people in Vancouver, Luxembourg, London, Sydney, Melbourne and Abu Dhabi. Covering all four corners of the world, this club effort extends out to all of them virtually. There are club members of all ages from U7 all the way up to Junior B, who will be joining us on the running track at the back GAA pitch on our grounds”.

Funds raised from the initiative, which Pieta has been running with numerous GAA clubs, will be split equally between the organisation and the club. Funds for Corofin GAA will help subsidise plans for a new wellness centre within the club, which will serve as both a gym and a community space for yoga and mindfulness.

These funds will help with a “huge outgoing of finance” in the club, offsetting what is ex-

pected to be a capital project in the ballpark of €100,000, according to Mr. Gillespie. The decision and awarded figure on an application for a Sports Capital grant submitted by the club will be revealed in August. Each application is awarded an amount based on its own merit, he added.

“We are looking forward to this upcoming event, and we are asking people to offer whatever they can through the iDonate link that can be found on our Facebook page.

We will have a small launch at the track on Saturday at 6pm, keeping in line with COVID restrictions. We have different slots for each age group and hope to have someone on the track at all times over the 24 hour period,” he concluded.

lINVITATION: Corofin GAA Chairman Brian Gillespie

Photo by Burren Eye Photography

FUNDING for communities groups throughout Clare has been sought for defibrillators and training from the Department of Health.

It comes off the back of a motion by Cllr John Crowe (FG) before a sitting of Clare County Council this week which asked that the Department cover the cost for the provision of a defibrillator and adjoining heater on walls for clubs and villages across the country, “it is a very small price to be looking for,” he said of his calculated €1700 bill per installation.

Running costs associated with defibrillators cause problems, the Sixmilebridge man outlined as he referenced the need to change batteries every two years which cost “€120 a piece”.

“Heart disease is the biggest cause of death in this country,” he emphasised, “every second family in this country has heart problems going back generations”.

Christian Eriksen’s collapse during Denmark’s clash with Finland in the European Championships really highlighted the importance of defibrillators, Crowe added. He

asked that the first Council meeting in-person be preceded by training for all elected members on how to use a defibrillator.

“This is a particular one that is close to my heart if you pardon the pun,” Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) remarked as he seconded the request. He noted that the presence of a defibrillator can be the “difference between life and death for a lot of people”.

A comprehensive list of all defibrillators available in Clare is urgently required, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) flagged. Putting together such a list was described as “a big piece of work but a very worthy piece of work” by Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG). “The GAA is a great example, there is almost a defibrillator at every club in the country, it will save lives,” Cllr Pat Daly (FF) predicted.

Lives of all ages are saved by defibrillators, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) said, “if one life is saved because of a defibrillator in our county that would be a great thing”. Action on progressing the motion must be carried out, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) stressed with further support voiced by Cllr Mary Howard (FG).

KILRUSH PRIDE FLAG

RAISING the Pride flag outside Clare County Council owned buildings will encourage persons living in cities such as Paris and London to consider moving to the Banner County, a Kilrush councillor has said, writes Páraic McMahon.

Visual demonstrations that Clare is an inclusive county must become commonplace, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) stated as he proposed the Council appoint a diversity and inclusion officer to “celebrate and encourage greater diversion and inclusion within our communities” Director of Finance and Support Services, Noeleen Fitzgerald detailed that workshops have been rolled out on embedding and developing a culture of respect for human rights, equality, diversity and inclusion.

At the end of June, a Pride flag flew outside Kilrush Town Hall for the first time.

Cllr Lynch said that organising this was “one of the most humbling things I’ve done”.

During Pride month, the flag should fly outside all buildings owned by the Council, he felt.

He referenced the bid to attract people living in Ireland’s big cities to Co Clare during the pandemic for remote working but believed their demographic could be expanded, “there is no reason why we couldn’t be looking at Paris and London and getting people to move to rural Clare, we need to be inclusive to attract them”.

Cllr Susan Crawford (GP) seconded what she labelled a “fantastic motion”. Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) told the meeting, “As a mother of a transgender, I had a

daughter, I now have a son, I have experienced two genders in one child, when he sees the Pride flag outside a public building he feels very welcome”.

lINCLUSIVE: Kilrush Town Hall

20 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Kearney Cooks

ELDERFLOWER CORDIAL

I

’M VERY lucky to live in the countryside. A lot of stuff grows wild out by my house, such as blackberries, mushrooms and elderflower. It is the latter that is concerning me this week, as I picked a load of it from the lane way that leads up to my house.

Normally now would be too late for elderflower, but around my way it seems to have come in a bit late this year, so you should be OK to go foraging for it for the next week or two. A favourite drink of mine is Elderflower Cordial , it is wonderfully floral and surprisingly easy to do. So here is my simple version of Elderflower Cordial.

lemon.

Fire your rind, lemon slices and lemon juice into your sugar water. Also add your 20 elderflower heads. Cover and leave overnight.

Step 3 Pass your elderflower liquid through a muslin cloth (I sit the muslin into a sieve and let the liquid pass through that way), we don’t want any solid bits in our Cordial.

Step 4 Pour your liquid into sterilised bottles.

You should get three litres from this

YOU WILL NEED: • 20 heads of elderflower • 1 kg caster sugar • 3 lemons • 2 litres of water

recipe.

This Cordial can be served as normal with water, pretty much straight away.

It also goes great with gin, vodka, in cocktails and a tiny drop goes a long way in a glass of prosecco.

As usual, if you have any questions about this recipe or others, please feel free to slide into my DMs on Insta (stevekearney37).

Enjoy

Steve K

You will also need three sterilised litre bottles, and some muslin cloth Step 1 Horse your sugar and water into a pot and heat it up until the sugar has dissolved. Do not boil it though. Once the sugar has dissolved take it off the heat and allow to cool.

Step 2 Peel the rind off two of the lemons and then slice the lemons. Juice the third

Bunratty hotel promotes family fun with new alcohol free bar

GREENWAY IS ON THE WAY

A

BUNRATTY hotel is promoting family fun and safety this summer through the recent opening of an alcohol-free bar, writes Cian O’Broin.

Bunratty Castle Hotel General Manager Danny Corbett decided to open a coffee shed named Jilly and Joe’s in a bid to keep his staff employed during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The establishment of a highly successful food truck serving spicy wings and seafood boxes as well as an ice-cream and pizza parlour allowed much of the 40-person roster to return to working ways.

Senior Assistant Manager, Robert Keogh said that the hotel’s focus this summer was to avoid anti-social behaviour and focus on family fun, which resulted in the genesis of an all-encompassing alcohol-free bar. “It’s lovely to see families arriving on bikes each day or to see the car park full to the brim. We made the switch to alcohol free to ensure that these people were safe going home. We are already seeing such a positive response”.

The bar serves a selection of alcohol-free

RIGHT TRACK: Cllr Cillian Murphy, Pat Dowling, Seán Lenihan, Grainne Reddan, Eoin FRUITY: Mocktail

cocktails, a wide range of non-alcoholic gins, bottles and the resoundingly popular Heineken 0.0 draft.

Preparations for the summer reopening resulted in the hotel “heavily investing” in a number of new fruits and syrups in an effort to echo the effects of infamous cocktails such as a Pornstar Martinii or Sex on the Beach, which they have duly dubbed a “Soft Pornstar Martini” and a family friendly “Walk on the Beach.”

The Cratloe native points to a shift in the tide of the renowned Irish drinking culture, whereby he accented

that “there has always been this negative thing about the Irish, that we could never go anywhere or do anything, unless there was drink involved. I think we have really evolved and that’s the way forward. It’s great to see kids and families all out and so happy.

We want a safe environment here”.

Robert and his tight knit staff are anxiously awaiting the return of indoor dining, adding that a new ‘Jilly and Joe’s Carvery’ will be opening up with a full menu and will be “another feather in the cap of Bunratty to draw more people in”.

O’Cathain, Leonard Cleary, Deirdre Neff, Cllr Joe Killeen, and Carmel Kirby

Photo by Eamon Ward

by PÁRAIC McMAHON CONSULTANTS have been appointed for the Kilrush to Kilkee section of the West Clare Greeneway.

Roughan & O’Donovan Consulting Engineers have been given the task of progressing the options, route selection, design and assessment phases of the first section of the Greenway between Kilrush and Kilkee via Moyasta.

Economic, social, health and environmental benefits for the county are predicted as part of the Greenway’s development. Clare County Council’s project management office are leading the project. Tender documents are being prepared for the Ennis to Ennistymon section presently before attention turns to Ennistymon to Miltown Malbay. Should no legal challenges arise, 2025 is the expected completion date of the Greenway which is to span a distance of 110 to 115km.

Engagement with landowners, the public and community interest groups will be carried out in the coming weeks, senior engineer Seán Lenihan advised. “We are committed to working with all affected parties to ensure a positive outcome. While the proposed route safeguarded in the County Development Plan is along the old railway line, we fully accept that, for the most part, this is in private ownership and many people have built homes, sheds, yards, etc., along the line or very close to it over the years.

“Others have levelled embankments and reclaimed their land, but we are absolutely committed to working with landowners in the area to find a mutually acceptable route. I have said many times that while trains had to run in straight lines, walkers and cyclists do not, so we are quite open to moving the route in or out or to the edge of a field so as not to interfere with property or farming practices”.

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Style & Beauty

22

STYLE & BEAUTY THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

City Break Staycation Mikie O Loughlin

O

N any city break skincare is absoloutely essential! Some of my go to products at the minute are from the brand La Roche Posay! The Vitamin C serum prevents and helps correct the appearance of anti aging and instantly makes my skin feel softer, more hydrated, which is so important in a city especially with the pollution. It also leaves my skin glowing!

Another favourite of mine is the La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water. It leaves the skin feeling super moisturised and hydrated. It is also so good in any warm weather to refresh the skin too!

Of course on any staycay a nice tan is essential! My current favourite is Dove gradual tanner. This one is around for years but its true what they say you cant beat “a rub of the dove”! Its so affordable and leaves the skin with a gorgeous natural glowing colour. Its also such a really good moisturiser for the skin!

When going out for that night out on your break away.. scent is always a must! I am loving Y by Yves Saint Laurent at present. It has a beautiful scent of both Bourbon Vanilla with a hint of Orange Blossom , featuring fresh citrus and aromatic notes followed by a deeper intensity of sensual woods.

Available at Haven Pharmacy Hollys La Roche-Posay Pure Vitamin C 10 Serum 30ml

Available at Haven Pharmacy Hollys

wear to be seen

€6.00 Available at McLoughlins chemist Dove Summer Glow Nourishing Lotion Med To Dark Skin 250ml

€3.99

www.cornucopia.fashion 6 Lower Market Street, Ennis Phone: 065 68 24465 Email: info@cornucopia.fashion

Hours: Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 1pm-5pm

€30.00

La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water Face&Body Spray 150ml

Available at O’Sullivans, Bank Place YVES SAINT LAURENT 70ml

€74.00

STYLE & BEAUTY

23

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Available at Haven Pharmacy Hollys

LUXURY MOUSSE MEDIUM

€20.00

Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara

Romantic Spa Staycation

€11.45

MUGLER Aura Eau de Parfum Refillable 30ml

Available at Rochefords Pharmacy

€60.00

Rachael Porter

W

HEN going on a night away somewhere romantic, perfect skin and tan is an essential!

Dripping Gold tan is an absolute go to tan for me, I love the colour and the shimmer it leaves, the instant version is also the dream for a top up after the spa!

I love the Soap and Glory Body Butter, it keeps the tan moisturised and constantly looking like a fresh layer, not to mention the divine scent!

A current favourite of mine is the Maybeline Sky High Mascara for long and clump free lashes, especially when going for dinner and a cocktail!

Penneys individual lashes are another must have of mine.

My favourite perfume at the minute is Aura Mugler by Terry Mugler, it has a gorgeous distinct blend of botanical freshness and feline sensuality from the notes of bourbon vanilla and orange blossom.

Another must for a night away is an amazon firestick as you can plug it in for either music or watch Netflix on almost all hotel TVs! Lastly accessories are a must! I picked up some gorgeous earrings from Glamorize. They are so on trend and such a great find…. don’t forget to pop into Glamorize at the minute as they have a huge clearance sale on at the moment!

Want to join our team?

We have some exciting roles becoming available.

We are looking for Fashion Fanatics who are Sales Smart, Customer Caring, have good Organisational Skills and are willing to Learn and Grow with an expanding business.

Available at Ennis Electrical

Soap & Glory The Righteous Butter 300ml

ROKU Streaming Stick+

€13.00

€59.99

Apply to: careers@brassboutique.ie

24

STYLE & BEAUTY THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Covet in Clare

Aoibhin Garrihy

H

AS retail therapy ever felt so sweet?! I think I appreciate a good browse and buy more now than I ever did (and I loved it before)! In Clare, we are so lucky to have so many retail gems on our doorstep. Covid really brought home the importance of supporting those businesses, championing green and buying local and so to reiterate the message, I’m delighted to bring back “Covet in Clare” to this week’s Clare Echo special and highlight some of the treasures this magpie has her eye on!

Wild Atlantic Living

During lockdown, a West Clare business that caught my eye and had me venturing outside my 5k as soon as restrictions allowed was Wild Atlantic Living. Owned by business woman and busy mum Julie, this shop is a gift/interior/ homeware enthusiasts heaven! I personally love the wall art on offer and this Large Gold Dragonfly Wall Figure will add a little quirky character to anyone’s living space. €54.99

Blackbird

It I got a penny for every time…someone asked me about my new beaded positivity bracelets…! I managed to get my hands on the feel good arm candy from Blackbird (a beautiful collection of hand picked jewellery from Irish and European designers) and have had so many admirers since! Available in a range of different colours combinations and positive messages these little accessories can’t but put a smile on your face!

Bank Pl, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 682 9874

STYLE & BEAUTY

25

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Afore After

Luke Reidy Artist

BEO Sleep Well

I may be biased but the brand new BEO Sleep Well range (with lots more to come in the coming weeks to include luxurious Aran Knit Throws and locally commissioned wall art) is the perfect gift to oneself or that special someone who may need a little nudge in the self-care direction. Inspired by the beauty of our landscape, BEO Sleep Well is an organic range that promotes sleep as a vital component of a person’s overall health and well-being. Available in the Kilkenny store Ennis and online at beowellness.ie

Miltown Malbay Printmaker has been making waves with his bespoke work, maintaining his well-known crisp and clean aesthetic that complements modern-day interiors beautifully. His customers include the Office of Public Works and NUIG, he works closely with interior designers and architects for specially commissioned pieces for private customers and you can also visit his online shop lukereidyartist.com for a colourful, bold addition to your own home sure to become a talking point!

Introducing a brand new and exciting Clare based fashion brand to the Irish market! Afore After, the brain child of Clare designer, Sandra Murphy, is a circular fashion brand as she aims to overhaul the fast fashion industry and make way for a more sustainable and e nv i ron m e nt a l approach to how we buy and what we wear. Her distinctly charming womenswear brand is full of feminine shapes, lines, prints and colours and you can wear and love your Afore After “forever price” knowing it’s been ethically made and responsibly sourced. Check out aforeafter. com for more.

STYLE & BEAUTY Night away with the gals 26

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Rebecca O’Neil

S

O your going for a staycay with the girls!

Theres nothing like a night away with the girls so here are all my essentials!

When its a night away with the girls your definitely going on the town so makeup is essential for that girly glam! My favourite foundation that I almost could not live without is Maybelline 24hour Super stay. This foundation is so light on the skin making you feel like you have nothing on your face! While ensuring you that it stays on your face all night long. Considering the masks we wear, this is most certainly essential and so affordable!

Another favourite of mine for that glam look is Mascara! Mascara is a must have. As it applies colour to your lashes and makes them visually look longer, this can give an illusion of your eyes looking more awake and bright. My favourite product for this would have to be the Benefit Bad Gal Bang volumising mascara.

Of course for that night out, your outfit is key and I am all about shopping local especially as Clare has some fabulous boutiques! I think we are all creatures of habit for that “Jeans and a nice top” look but its a winner everytime! The right pair of jeans can be difficult to find but The County Boutique have currently launched a new jeans are called Jeans & Co. They have a huge range of jeans on offer including Mos Mosh and Tommy Hilfiger..

Tommy Hilfiger jeans are a favourite of mine and are such good quality.. they are the best investment!

What would the jeans be without a nice top and Cornucopia is my go to everytime! I have paired this fab white lace detail blouse!

Lastly is perfume and my favourite for that night out this Summer is Daisy Dream Marc Jacobs This has a fruity and floral scent to it leaving you smell like a combination of blackberry, fresh grapefruit, succulent pear, and a hint of coconut water.

Available at Cornucopia ONLALBERTA LACE DETAIL TOP Available at Rochfords

€30.00

Badgal Bang Volumising Mascara Black

€27.50

Available at County Boutique Flex Harlem Skinny Jeans

€70.00

Available at O’Sullivans, O Connel Street Daisy Eau de Toilette Spray by Marc Jacobs

Shop online @ www.countyboutique.ie

€43.95

Maybelline superstay foundation

€15.00

STYLE & BEAUTY

27

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

Savy Staycation Style

Aoibhin Garrihy Emilie Sporty Sandal

Love them or hate them (and I’m aware these sandals have been divisive this season) there’s no denying they are extremely practical for a holiday at home.

Whether you are walking the prom in Salthill, enjoying a fish and chips al fresco in Howth or taking a bike ride on the Aran Islands these little beauties will offer comfort all the way! Made from 83% recycled polyester with an insole featuring a soft base crafted from light and shock-absorbing PU foam you’re in for a sporty (yet stylish and fashion forward) treat! €90 and available at willow.ie

It would be a lovely little Country if we could only roof it! As we continue to explore this beautiful little nation of ours weather is the only thing that might differentiate us and those topping up their tans on the continent!! Although saying that, you might get lucky, so it’s important to have every eventuality covered and with no restrictions on baggage or weight allowance, a là Ryanair, you can always throw that second or third coat option into the boot just in case!

In the meantime, here are my top three Savy Staycation Style items you won’t go wrong in!

NEW COLLECTION OF DEBS DRESSES Paint Splash Sustainable Poncho

Available in a range of different prints The Paint Splash rain poncho is my favourite in the range at Meadows and Byrne and will ensure you never get caught out in a rain shower again. This 100% waterproof poncho is also sustainable using 100% recycled polyester, one size fits all, is easily stored and folded away making it the perfect choice for people on the move. €69 at Measows and Byrne, Bunratty

Tr i c i a’s C lo s et

11 Abbey St, Ennis Opening Hours | Mon- Sat | 9-5:30

Peony Cardigan

My mother certainly lives on in me! She was always a fan of a good cardigan (just in case!) when going anywhere and I think I’m inclined to agree with her these days, particularly when outdoor dining is still a reality.

Brass Boutique offer these Peony beauties in a range of different colours that also work beautifully as a dress as per image attached. Check them out on brassboutique.ie for just €65

28 RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

BUSINESS AND RECRUITMENT

AND GUTTERING CLARE

LEO LAUNCH ONLINE TRAINING

lSUITE: An Cathlaoirleach, Clare County Council, PJ Ryan launched the Local Enterprise Office Clare’s Autumn schedule of online training programmes for small business. Also in the picture is Sinéad Dixon-Slattery, Business Advisor and Declan Meaney, Office Admin at LEO Clare. Digital brochure and online booking on www.localenterprise.ie/clare

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BUSINESS 29

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Consumers urged to Look for Local with new campaign STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

NEW campaign by Local Enterprise Offices is urging consumers to look local when they are shopping for products, services and experiences this summer.

The Look for Local campaign, supported

by Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities, aims to raise awareness of the benefit of spending in people's local area.

Every €10 spent locally on Irish products generates more than €40 of benefit to the local community in terms of employment, according to a recent ISME Shop Local Report. Research has shown that Irish consumers were 83% more likely to look local for products and services in 2021.

The new campaign aims to strengthen that sentiment and to educate consumers on the domino effect that local spending has throughout their community.

The Local Enterprise Offices last year approved over 13,000 Trading Online Vouchers which enabled small businesses to set up an online trading presence.

This marked an increase of over 950% on the previous year and helped small business-

lLEO: Pictured at the launch of the Local Enterprise Office ‘Look for Local’ summer

campaign are An Tánaiste, Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar with Padraig McElwee, Chair of the Network of Local Enterprise Offices, Gianpiero de Vallier, The Artisan Pizza Company, LEO Dublin and Aoife McNamara, Aoife Ireland, LEO Limerick

Photo by Julien Behal

es to keep the virtual doors open, when the physical ones were shut.

This along with training, mentoring, sector and issue specific consultancy and finan-

www.localenterprise.ie/clare www.localenterprise.ie/lookforlocal

cial supports helped thousands of businesses to continue to trade and sustain themselves ahead of this summer's reopening.

Launching the new campaign, Tánaiste

Leo Varadkar said that it is more important than ever to look for local and support the small businesses in your community.

"We're hoping for a really busy summer for our small businesses across the country.

Over one million people are employed by a small business in Ireland more than the public sector and multi-nationals combined.

I encourage everyone to support these jobs and look for local in their own community," he added.

Padraic McElwee, chair of the network of Local Enterprise Offices, said that since the onset of Covid-19, the Local Enterprise Offices have been working closely with small businesses across the country to help sustain them with financial supports, training, mentoring and consultancy for all areas of their business.

"Every Euro you spend with a local business is an investment in the community around it and the quality of goods, services and experiences on our doorstep is second to none. Not only that but it makes a positive environmental, economic and societal impact," Padraic McElwee said.

"This summer we are asking everyone to Look for Local and support businesses and jobs in their community," he added.

www.localenterprise.ie/lookforlocal

30 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, JUL 15 2021

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum With

With With

In this week’s column, Joe Melody gives an insight into the damage caused by “climate justice warriors”

T

HE current reality of most farming sectors is positive and the future is bright.

This is the reality if the only factors at play were supply and demand. However our well meaning friends who might describe themselves as climate justice warriors are upsetting the natural course of commerce. The key here is they use words such as climate and social to describe the justice they wish to bring about.

You may say that all those aspirations are fine and decent which they are but not to the exclusion of overall justice. What they do not realise or refuse to countenance is that for every action there is a consequence.

If you reduce production of food stuff within Ireland, that vacuum will be filled and likely not as sustainably

or ethically as it is here.

I came across the WHO and OECD reports on the future of food supply and demand over the next decade. The main takeaway point from the OECD was that the worldwide demand for two of this countries main products Dairy and Beef will increase significantly. Unfortunately thanks to our friends in Brussels and Dublin who frame policy and regulation, we as a trading block and we as a nation wont be the main beneficiaries of this extra demand.

As an example the report projected that big dairy producing countries like India and Pakistan will provide the extra production.

These countries are almost absent of any regulation never mind sound environmental stewardship. Pakistan has nearly 4 times the

AU NATUREL: Meadows are easier saved as hay when they are organic

emissions Ireland has per litre of milk. This is the result of asymmetrical global environmental policy.

All is not lost however as this is the future and our political leaders still have time to change course somewhat and allow Irish producers meet some of this demand in the sustainable way they have done for generations. I do have my concerns though that politically the tail (the Greens) is wagging the proverbial dog Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. The hard liners always tend to punch above their weight, add this to a media that are happy to facilitate a “climate justice” hysteria regardless of the unforeseen climate chaos it creates elsewhere.

Many FF and FG voters are farmers, there are elements in both parties that have adopted climate hysteria as some new fangled sense of identity. My strong sense is that for the modern politician the world of farming, business and the environment can seem complicated and perhaps the lack of business people in politics doesn’t help.

We are in the process of cutting the traditional hay meadows that are in the GLAS scheme.

The much needed inclement weather had put a pause on making forage since the 1st of July.

We don’t fertilise these meadows at all as they are stopped for a prolonged period due to the scheme and we also find these old meadows are easier saved as hay when organic. Preparations are reaching their crescendo for the arrival of our hens. The whole project has been made all the more tricky with the shortages and price hikes of materials for the hen’s house. The fencing is going in next and we have plenty of wildlife so they need all the protection they can get.

L

We are all human

IKE many people, I too watched the RTÉ Investigates special on Councillor’s expenses with annoyance and frustration. Only a short while since a similar RTÉ team did a deep dive and sting operation into Councillors’ behaviour with lobbyists, here we are again being faced with less than exemplary behaviour from our most fundamental local representatives.

I must preface my thoughts, however, with the fact that the current system of expenses is unwieldy in the volume of paperwork that accompanies it. From my time on the board of NUI Galway, filing travel expenses could take some time for each meeting.

Nevertheless, I was never in any doubt as to make sure all information was accurate and the most direct route, along with accurate times of travel, were recorded.

This was of course easy for me, as meetings of Údarás na hOllscoile were relatively infrequent compared to some other bodies coupled with the fact that I’ve never sat on any other board, let alone several of them at once, all demanding the same volume of paperwork to be filed on an ongoing basis.

I can see how a genuine mistake could easily be made, especially in a Councillor’s first term when the system of expenses is brand new to them. It should also be noted that the annual base pay for a Councillor stands at less than €17,000 before tax which everyone can agree is a paltry sum.

Expenses for travelling to represent the county and Clare’s interests are therefore very much appropriate to begin with.

Secondly, anyone who knows the two Clare

Councillors mentioned on the programme knows that they are amongst the hardest working, not just in Clare, but across the country. Any of us involved in the charity and community sector know that they have repeatedly gone out of their way, travelling huge distances on short notice, in a very tight schedule, to ensure that various causes around the county get their support.

I personally have no issue with the explanation they gave for errors or oversights that may occur in their returns, so long as they are not repeated. We’re all human and entitled to make the rare mistake, as long as it doesn’t become a habit.

With all that in mind, in this day and age, it’s beyond time to radically overhaul the system of expenses for elected representatives.

Firstly, it is time we moved away from unvouched expenses altogether and insist that all expenses, where practical, move to a vouched system. There are definitely some Councillors around the country who use the cumbersome system to deliberately fudge expenses to claim more than they are entitled to.

Regrettably, human nature is such that as soon as a system is put in place, there will be those attempting to game it. In public office though, this is more unacceptable than anywhere else given the level of trust we the public put in our elected representatives. Yes, a Councillor is overworked, especially since the Hogan reforms that took effect at the 2014 local elections.

And yes, there is a mountain of administrative work that they have to do on top of the rest of their day-to-day work as well as their full-time job, with

absolutely no support staff or help. Nevertheless, this is public money and public confidence in the political system we are talking about so there cannot be room for error here.

It is incumbent on the Minister of State for Local Government to insist these issues are addressed correctly. Firstly, moving the system to a vouched one is hugely overdue, but so is proper digitisation of the system along side beefed up powers for SIPO (Standards in Public Office Commission) to audit and investigate the expenses claims of all politicians and public servants serving in public office.

Local councillors also require some support staff.

For every six Councillors, there should be a member of staff in the local authority to assist them with administrative work, including the accurate filing of expenses. Having such a person in place as a first port of call for Councillors would avoid such instances from occurring in future as the paperwork would not be filed in the first instance.

Not only would they assist in this, but they could also ensure that Councillors were not duplicating work unnecessarily, and lead to much greater efficiency in the running of the local authority.

Lastly, we need to pay our local representatives a proper wage. Being a Councillor is a full-time job now, effective, since 2014. There is no longer a justification in paying them a part-time wage. If they were properly reimbursed for their time, then there would not be the constant need to expense every single item.

It’s time we brought our system of local government crashing into the 21st century.

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

MOTORING

MOTORING

31

PLUG AND

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS VIEWS

Ford’s posh Ranger pickup thunders in

Is Ford’s comfy Ranger Thunder able to switch RENAULT ZOE Irish FORD RANGER car buyers on to pickups?

R135 making it better every time, and for 2020 sa-e — the Zoe can squeeze out an extra

RENAULT’S ALL-ELECTRIC ZOE PROVES HOW

THUNDER 2.0 LITRE there’s this, the all-new model.

45km of claimed one-charge range. With a Well, I say all-new... Actually, under the fully-topped-off battery, the Zoe should be skin, the basic structure and chassis of the good for as much as 395km. In fact, you’ll O we this get pickups, as yet?

Probably SYNC3 heated seats, T was never easy before.

When Zoe are muchinfotainment as they were,software, but the body, probably do better than that if you’re drivnot, and that’s just as well. reversing camera, and keyless entry and igelectric cars first maybe launched, a decade although familiar, looks a little sharper, ingexmostly around town, where the regenOur US cousins have been ‘get- nition. Our test car was fitted with enough ago, those models with and and Renault has managed carve out a cheap, erative braking system helps to scavenge ting’early pickups sincecame the 1950s tras to bring its price toto€54,611 — not built-in hassle.

Short ranges, inconsislittle more so that you no extra increasingly using them as daily but stillspace ratherinside, less than a Raptor — and in- charge as you go, but if you’re mixtent charging opportunities, high longercluded have toautomated constantly parking, rub elbows with cruise ing in some motorway miles, the realistic transport.

Which is possibly not thepricbest thing adaptive es, and a sense youmay werebe driving someever, and that indeed one of the very control, and automatic high-beam headlights. your front-seat passenger. range drops to around 250-280km. Which things evertofrom an environmental the Raptor’s the 2.2-litre diesel, the pretty decent. thingworst that was closer a fridge than a car. andMuchInstead more ofimportantly, Zoe’s is still roadthat safety of view. and this new battery Thunder gets Ford’s 2.0-litre Well, haspoint all changed and electric motornewer are new.

The EcoBlue Better still, the Zoe charges up quickly. on a of well-known website four-cylinder diesel (thefar reduction in cubic ca-it into a 50kWh rapid charger and RenaultHave Zoe ais search an exemplar that change.

52kWh battery in Zoe is far, larger than Plug thattherhymes with ‘Oogle’ and look for the pacity of which will be a relief to those who tax When Zoe originally launched, it sufthe pair of AA Duracells you got in the it’ll go from empty to 80 per cent charged Silverado.

It’s one ofof thethose best-sell- their pickups as private cars) with 213hp and feredChevrolet from most, if not quite all, original.

In fact, with only an extra 2kWh in around 30-45mins. The Zoe has a neat ing pickups in the US market, albeit still be- 500nm of torque. Hitched to a ten-speed auearlyhind electric car shortcomings.

Renault with relative to the Zoe’s closesttoritrick, the mighty Ford F150 in the charts. to It’splaytomatic gearbox, that’s enough shove the though — it has a clever charging kept also updating andof refining the Look Zoe, though, vals —Thunder the Peugeot e-208 and Opel Cor- Which system built-in, called the Chameleon the size a house. long enough to 100km/h in nine seconds.

ID

GT-LINE

charger, that allows it to make the most of lower-powered chargers. Hook a Zoe up to one of the ESB’s 22kW on-street chargers (the boxy white and green ones, located on pavements) and it’ll add 125km worth of range in just one hour of charging, while you nip to the shops or have some lunch. At home, with a 7.4kWh home-charger wall-box, it will fill the battery from empty to the brim in around nine hours while you snooze.

The fact that this model is called the Zoe R135 also reveals another improvement — the electric motor, which has been beefed up to deliver — guess what — 135hp and 245Nm of torque (although the extra power does strip a little range away — 386km compared to the full 395km of the cheaper R110 version). That makes the Zoe feel very zippy indeed, and even when you’re

and you might find a photo, taken slightly at sounds brisk, but in fact the Thunder feels random, showing a Silverado towering over less stormy, and more balmy to drive. It’s rethe car sat next to it in a suburban shopping laxed and laid back, languid almost. Rev the centre car park. The car next to the Silverado engine too hard and it become annoyingly is not a Fiat 500, nor a Smart ForTwo. It is noisy, so instead you drive on the torque, and a Toyota Land Cruiser Amazon, about as big enjoy the relative refinement. a car as you could — in general — hope to Thus driven, the Thunder is a big, lazy, own and drive. The Silverado makes it look comfortable thing. The suspension jitters a bit like a toy. at low speeds, but smooths out as you go, I’m not sure what kind of engineering avoir- and nothing else this side of a Raptor is as dupois or toxic, secretly-fragile, masculinity good at coping with speed bumps. The steerled us to this point, but I think it has to stop. ing is quite brisk, and you can feel how much Not only is the thought of a massive, heavy tidier is the handling than you’d have found on truck, hauled around — like as not — by a the old Ranger Wildtrak. Even the safety rathuge V8 fast becoming not only repellent ing — the Ranger scored a full five-stars from but actually unthinkable, but the thought of EuroNCAP, including an astonishing 81 per what happens when something this fast and cent score for pedestrian safety —is impresslab-fronted clips a pedestrian or a cyclist sive for something that’s really a commercial simply doesn’t bear thinking about, electronic vehicle. And, of course, there’s all that massafety nets notwithstanding. sive space out the back in the load bay for So, it is with a somewhat heavy heart that swallowing the ‘big shop’ from Dunnes.

I approach this, the Ford Ranger Thunder.

So, should you come over all Yankee and A limited-edition vehicle, of which a mere swap your family crossover for a bigger, 4,500 will be built, and only a third of those tougher, machine? I’m not so sure. I mean, with right-hand drive. Those who remember if you really, truly need one for work, then by our Ranger Raptor road test of just over a all means — the Ranger Thunder is a hugely year ago may well recall how we rhapsodised likeable (if rather pricey) pickup that’s entirely about Ford’s big, fast pickup. In Raptor form, comfortable and useable as day-to-day transthe Ranger is outrageously entertaining, and port. For the rest of us? While I’d be lying if if its 2.2-litre diesel engine means that it’s not I said I didn’t enjoy my time with the Ranger all that quick on the road, the secret is that Thunder, there’s just too much of a prickling when the road runs out, you don’t need to conscience for me. Given the overall increase slow down… in the size of an average car in the past ten The Thunder is not like that. I guess you years, switching to a pickup seems like the Megane - Plug-in Hybrid could in some ways think of it as a detuned first step on a slippery slope,Zoe and I really don’t - 100% Electric Captur - Plug-in Hybrid Raptor, and the menacing ‘Sea Grey’ metal- want to see a future where a car considered lic paint, with tantalising red highlights, might fit for family use towers over something that Clio - Hybrid well lead you down that conceptual road. It’s we currently consider massive. There is hope not, though — the Raptor is effectively an off- for the future, though — Ford is on the cusp road racer that’s been civilised for road use, of going all-in on electric pickups, having while the Thunder is essentially a regular inked partnerships with startup EV maker Ranger with more equipment and nicer seats. Rivian in the US, and Volkswagen in Europe.

Models shown: Mégane Sport Tourer Iconic E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,356; ZOE GT Line Z.E.50 R135 – RRP €32,427; Clio RS Line E-TECH Hybrid 140 – RRP €29,307; Captur S-Edition E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,037 (ZOE, Captur and To those of us of a certain age, it is effectively The next-gen Ranger will share a platform Mégane RRPs include €5,000 SEAI grant for private buyers, prices valid in November 2020). Finance example ZOE Play R110 Z.E.50. RRP €27,728. Deposit €11,534. Term 48 monthly payments of €339. APR 2.11%. Total cost of credit €659 inc fee of €75. Offer is a Ranger Ghia.

All it lacks is the vinyldeferral roof… theFirst new Amarok and, given we’ve made under a hire purchase agreement.

Payment availablewith on request. payment will be taken 90 days afterthat activation of finance agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning: You will not own these It’s not for other equipment. already seen Branch electric ver-by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes. goods untillacking the final payment is made].

Renault Bank is aFor trading name of RCI Banque Irelandand and isplugin-hybrid authorised and regulated a price tag of €48,968 the Ranger Thunder sions of the Transit and Transporter, one can comes with 18-inch black-finished alloys, presume that the Ranger will also be offered a ‘sports hoop’ (no laughing at the back, in an all-battery form. Assuming that the overplease) atop the load bed, which has its own all size can be kept in check, then maybe a lighting system, half-leather seats in a cabin pickup truck might finally make sense as an filled with contrast red stitching, an eight-inch Irish family car. touchscreen with Ford’s refreshingly simple

Fully charged, unplugged and ready for you.

Renault is offering:

€1,000 Green Grant + 2.11% APR

+ 3 Months Deferred Payments

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare Tel 065 6821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie

32

MOTORING

MOTORING

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

PLUG AND

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

Toyota Ireland announces Incentives for Switching to Low-Emissions Swithcing to Hybrid in the 212 Registration Period offers incentives, all available at Cummins Car Centre

T

OYOTA, Ireland’s best-selling car brand, is delighted to announce its new range of offers for the 212 registration period, making the migration away from diesel into a low CO2 emitting self-charging hybrid both an environmentally and walletZOE friendly RENAULT move for new car buyers.

With one in four new cars purchased this R135 year being hybrid, there is a concerted move GT-LINE

by Irish motorists towards cleaner, electrified motoring, and with Ireland’s widest choiceT ofwas hybrids the vehicle neveracross this easy before.segment When spectrum, Toyota to every budget and electric cars caters first launched, a decade style ago, preference.

Switching both mindset those early models came with and car to a more sustainable outlook won’t built-in hassle.

Short ranges, inconsiscost the withopportunities, the upgrade from Yaris tentworld, charging high pricpetrol Yaris that hybrid only €4someextra es, andto a sense youcosting were driving per week. thing that was closer to a fridge than a car.

Toyota’s 212has offers include ultra-low Well, that all changed and thisAPRs new with Toyota Finance from Renault Zoe Easy is anPCP exemplar of starting that change. just 2.9% theoriginally ‘2021 Car launched, of the Year’it Yaris When theon Zoe sufhybridfrom (style grade), fered most, if notalong quite with all, offinance those contributions up shortcomings. to €3,000 whichRenault signifiearly electric ofcar cantly lowers monthly repayments.

Non-fikept updating and refining the Zoe, though, nance customers can benefit from a trade-in

I

Ennis Road Newmarket-on-Fergus Co.Clare

booster of up to €2,500, while all customers · Highlander Hybrid - Starting from 65,660 will enjoy three years free servicing across with €462 per month repayment at 4.9% the entire Toyota range.

APR. Finance contribution of €2,500 or DEAL SPECIFICS: €2,500 trade-in booster. · Yaris Hybrid – Starting from €23,485 and €145 per month repayment at 2.9% APR on Yaris Hybrid Style. · Corolla Hatchback Hybrid – Starting from €27,305itand €190 per time, monthand repayment making better every for 2020 at sa-e — the Zoe can squeeze out an extra charger, that allows it to make the most of low3.9% APR. Includes finance contribution 45km of claimed one-charge range. With a er-powered chargers. Hook a Zoe up to one of there’s this, the all-newa model. ofWell, €1,000 or aall-new... trade-inActually, booster of €1,000.

I say under the fully-topped-off battery, the Zoe should be the ESB’s 22kW on-street chargers (the boxy · Corolla Saloon Hybrid Starting from good for as much as 395km. In fact, you’ll white and green ones, located on pavements) and skin, the basic structure and–chassis of the €27,980 and €195 per month repayment Zoe are much as they were, but the body, at probably do better than that if you’re driv- it’ll add 125km worth of range in just one hour 3.9% APR. Includes a finance although familiar, looks a littlecontribution sharper, ing mostly around town, where the regen- of charging, while you nip to the shops or have of €1,000, or trade-in booster €1,000. and Renault has managed to of carve out a erative braking system helps to scavenge some lunch. At home, with a 7.4kWh home-char· C-HR Hybrid from and extra charge as you go, but if you’re mix- ger wall-box, it will fill the battery from empty to little more space– Starting inside, so that€31,205 you no monthly payment from €203 at 3.9% APR. longer have to constantly rub elbows with ing in some motorway miles, the realistic the brim in around nine hours while you snooze. €1,750 financepassenger. contribution or trade-in range drops to around 250-280km. Which your front-seat The fact that this model is called the Zoe R135 booster of €1,500.

Much more importantly, the Zoe’s is still pretty decent. also reveals another improvement — the electric · RAV4 and Hybrid – Starting and Better still, the Zoe charges up quickly. motor, which has been beefed up to deliver — battery electric motorfrom are €39,510 new. The €285 monthly repayment at 4.9% APR. 52kWh battery in Zoe is far, far larger thanFi- Plug it into a 50kWh rapid charger and guess what — 135hp and 245Nm of torque (alnance of €1,500. the paircontribution of AA Duracells you got in the it’ll go from empty to 80 per cent charged though the extra power does strip a little range · Camry Hybrid – Starting €41,570 with in around 30-45mins. The Zoe has a neat away — 386km compared to the full 395km of original. In fact, with only anatextra 2kWh monthly payments 4.9% APR. to play with relative from to the€271 Zoe’satclosest ri- trick, though — it has a clever charging the cheaper R110 version). That makes the Zoe €3,000 finance contribution or trade-in vals — the Peugeot e-208 and Opel Cor- system built-in, called the Chameleon feel very zippy indeed, and even when you’re booster of €1,500

RENAULT’S ALL-ELECTRIC ZOE PROVES HOW

N18 Autos for Quality Assured : Superior Service For Personal Attention Always, Phone Michael: 086 8055960 Anthony: 087 2666429

Millroad Road Ennis Co.Clare

www.n18autos.ie Fully charged, unplugged PHONE / WHATSAPP KEITH 0858549995 and ready for you.  Fully Qualified Mechanic

2020 Kia Picanto 1.0l Petrol 5k Miles 181 Hyundai Tucson 1.7 CRDi SE Nav 50k Miles 171 Ford Kuga Zetec 1.5 TDCi 19k Miles 171 Ford Kuga 1.5 TDCi Titanium Black 68k Miles 171 Opel Mokka X 1.6 CDTi Silver 161 Kia EXceed 1.6 CRDi Black 41k Miles 161 Ford Focus 1.0 Titanium Petrol Red 14k Miles isZetec offering: 152Renault Ford Focus 1.5 TDCi 59k Miles 152 Ford Focus Titanium 1.5 TDCi White 66k Miles 151 Mercedes Benz C220 Auto 2.2 D Silver 69k Miles 151 Volkswagen Golf Match 1.6 TDi Silver 90k + 2.11% 141 Fiat 500APR 1.2 Petrol Pop 50k Miles White 141 Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDi Grey 130k Miles + 3 Months Deferred Payments 132 Hyundai i40 1.7 CRDi Black 204k Miles 131 Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi 2 107k Miles 2012 Ford Fiesta Zetec 1.25l Red 39k Miles Megane - Plug-in Hybrid 2011 Renault Fluence 1.5 DCi 150k Miles Black 2011 Ford Focus Zetec 1.6 TDCi Grey 90k Miles 2011 Renault Grand Megane 1.5 DCI 160k Miles Black 2010 Peugoet 3008 1.6 HDi 102k Miles Navy 2007 Seat Ibiza 1.2 Petrol 130k Miles

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

Car Repairs / Service / NCT Checkover



Vehicle Diagnosis



Quickfit Including Wipers & Bulbs



Light Focus Machine

 Accessories- Oil / Windscreen Wash / Air Freshner 

Number Plates Made Up (NCT Standard)

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Car Sales



Finance Options



Cash / Card Payment Options

Captur - Plug-in Hybrid

ALL UNDER 1 ROOF Clio - Hybrid

Models shown: Mégane Sport Tourer Iconic E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,356; ZOE GT Line Z.E.50 R135 – RRP €32,427; Clio RS Line E-TECH Hybrid 140 – RRP €29,307; Captur S-Edition E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,037 (ZOE, Captur and

Mégane RRPs include SEAI grant for private buyers, prices valid November 2020). Finance example ZOE Play R110 Z.E.50. RRP €27,728. Deposit €11,534. Term 48 monthly payments of €339. APR 2.11%. Total cost of credit €659 inc fee of €75. Offer is Due to high demand, We€5,000 have now OPENED a 2nd premises in in Ennis

Proud sponsors of Ennis Raptors Basketball Club

made under a hire purchase agreement. Payment deferral available on request. First payment will be taken 90 days after activation of finance agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Renault Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

just off Mill Rd, next to Pat Fuody Tyres (previously Ennis Motor Factors)

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare For065 More Information on Price, Spec, Service & Warranty visit www.n18autos.ie or 'N18 Autos' Facebook Page Tel 6821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie

Eircode V95 VK84

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

MOTORING

PCP Finance Example: Yaris Style Hybrid. On the Road Price† €26,965. Deposit €9,707.40. Finance Amount €17,257.60. 36 monthly payments of €145.43**. Term of 37 months. GMFV†† (Optional Final Payment) €13,242.15. Total Cost of Credit €1,347.01. Fixed APR 2.9%**. Camry Hybrid Sol. On the Road Price† €42,570. Finance Contribution €3,000*. Deposit €14,245.20. Finance Amount €25,324.80. 36 monthly payments of €270.86**. Term of 37 months. GMFV†† (Optional Final Payment) €18,706.50. Total Cost of Credit €3,259.64. Fixed APR 4.9%**.†On the Road Price includes delivery & related charges. Models are shown for illustrative purposes only. ††GMFV payable if you renew or retain the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may apply subject to kilometre limits/condition of vehicle. ‡Lower VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax) excludes Camry, RAV4 and Highlander. **Lending criteria, terms and conditions apply. Finance by way of PCP agreement provided by Toyota Financial Services Ireland DAC. Finance example is based on a xed rate APR and is inclusive of a documentation fee and purchase fee of €63.49 each. A deposit of between 0% and 36% of the nance amount may be required and a maximum term of 49 months applies. Rate quoted is correct as at 19.05.21 and is subject to change. Rate of 2.9% available on Yaris Hybrid Style, 4.9% available on all AYGO, RAV4 and Camry, Highlander, Prius and Yaris petrol Models. 3.9% APR available on Toyota C-HR, Corolla Hatchback, Saloon, and all other Yaris Hybrid and models registered between 17.05.21 and 31.07.2021. *Finance contribution of €500 available on Aygo models, €1,000 available on Corolla Hybrid models, €1,500 available on RAV4 Hybrid models, €1,750 available on C-HR Hybrid models, €2,000 available on Prius Hybrid models, €2,500 available on Highlander Hybrid models and €3,000 available on Camry Hybrid models registered between 17.05.21 and 31.07.2021.

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MOTORING

MOTORING

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

P L U GT A N D

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

Toyota sets up global climate action fund

I

RENAULT ZOE R135 GT-LINE

T was never this easy before. When electric cars first launched, a decade ago, those early models came with built-in hassle. Short ranges, inconsistent charging opportunities, high prices, and a sense that you were driving something that was closer to a fridge than a car.

Well, that has all changed and this new Renault Zoe is an exemplar of that change.

When the Zoe originally launched, it suffered from most, if not quite all, of those early electric car shortcomings. Renault kept updating and refining the Zoe, though,

OYOTA says that is taking another step expertise at Toyota for guidance on emerging areas in its journey to creating a better future to explore. for our planet through the creation of Toyota’s Climate Fund comes as the organisation a new environmental focused ‘Climate moved its target year for attaining carbon neutralFund’ which will invest in early stage ity among all global factories to 2035. Toyota will start-ups to help further accelerate the realisation achieve this goal by adopting new technology in of its carbon neutrality goals. coating and casting processes while also increasing Based in the U.S. and managed by Toyota Ven- its use of renewable energy. tures, the 15-year investment initiative will seek The new fund is the latest in a long line of sucmaking it better every time, and for Zoe with can squeeze out an extra cessful charger, that investment allows it to ventures make theincluding most of lowout,2020 investsa-e in — andthe work young businesses Toyota TV there’s this, the all-new model.

45km claimed one-charge range.

With a Fund, er-powered chargers.

Hook a Zoe up to Fund, one of from around theofworld with innovative technolWoven Capital Fund, Future Creation Well, I say all-new... Actually, under battery, the Zoe should the Fund, ESB’s Renewable 22kW on-street boxy ogiesthe that fully-topped-off are focused on tackling climate changebe Space Energychargers Fund and(the Frontier skin, the basic structure and chassishead of the good forisas much asto395km.

In fact, you’ll Fund white and green ones, located on pavements) and on. The fund expected commence operaamongst others.

Zoe are much as they were, but the body, probably do better than that you’re drivit’ll add 125km of range just oneCEO hour tions in July of this year and swiftly gain iftraction by Commenting onworth the news, SteveinTormey, although familiar, looks a little sharper, mostly aroundinvestment town, where the regen- of ofToyota charging, whilesaid, you “Today’s nip to theannouncement shops or have leveraging ing Toyota’s existing infrastrucIreland and Renault has managed to carve outand a early-stage erative braking helps expertise. to scavenge marks someanother lunch. At home, with home-charture venturesystem investment important stepa 7.4kWh in Toyota’s journey little more space inside, so that you extrainvestment charge as you but if you’re mix- towards ger wall-box, will fill society the battery empty Thenocapital will go, emanate from the a carbonit neutral and from is another ex-to longer have to constantly rub elbows with Research ing in some motorway miles, theinvestrealistic ample the brim in‘Built around hoursWorld’ while brand you snooze.

Toyota Institute and particular of our fornine a Better puryour front-seat passenger. range to around 250-280km.

Which poseThe fact thatTackling this model is called the Zoe R135 ment sectors fordrops the fund will include renewable in action. climate change progresMuch more importantly, theenergy, Zoe’s hydrogen is still pretty decent.and utilisation, stor- sively also and reveals anotherisimprovement the electric production effectively best done in—conjunction battery and electric motor are new.

Better still, Zoe capture. charges The up quickly. motor, has been to deliver — age,The transportation, and the carbon Toy- with otherwhich innovators whobeefed comeup from different 52kWh battery in Zoe is far, far larger Plugteam it into rapid for charger and angles guessand what — 135hp and torque (alotathan Ventures will abe50kWh responsible identiperspectives, and245Nm we lookofforward to the pair of AA Duracells you gotfying in the it’ll go from emptystart-ups to 80 pertocent charged working thoughwith the some extra power does stripnew a little range and evaluating suitable consider of the smartest start-ups original. In fact, with only an extrafor 2kWh in around 30-45mins.

Zoestaff, has athe neat around away the — 386km toathe full 395km investment.

In addition to the The existing world tocompared help make profound differ-of to play with relative to the Zoe’s closest trick, though it has Fund a clever the and cheaper R110 makesdirection the Zoe teamriwill be adding new— Climate staff.charging Toy- ence reverse theversion). currentThat negative vals — the Peugeot e-208 and Opel system built-in, feel Earth very zippy indeed, and even when otaCorVentures will also be ablecalled to tap the into Chameleon the R&D planet is heading in before it’s too late.” you’re

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Captur - Plug-in Hybrid

Clio - Hybrid

Models shown: Mégane Sport Tourer Iconic E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,356; ZOE GT Line Z.E.50 R135 – RRP €32,427; Clio RS Line E-TECH Hybrid 140 – RRP €29,307; Captur S-Edition E-TECH Plug-in Hybrid 160 – RRP €30,037 (ZOE, Captur and Mégane RRPs include €5,000 SEAI grant for private buyers, prices valid in November 2020). Finance example ZOE Play R110 Z.E.50. RRP €27,728. Deposit €11,534. Term 48 monthly payments of €339. APR 2.11%. Total cost of credit €659 inc fee of €75. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Payment deferral available on request. First payment will be taken 90 days after activation of finance agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Renault Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

Kia Rio 1.25 2

Volkswagen Golf SE TDI 1.6 115 PS

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS KILRUSH ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare Contact: Andy Clearywww.hoganmotorsennis.ie 0833657625 Tel 065 6821704

SCAN USING PHONE CAMERA

MOTORING

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

YEAR MAKE/MODEL COLOUR MILES

YEAR MAKE/MODEL COLOUR MILES

2011 2011 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2013 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 2014 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2015 2016

2016 FORD KUGA TITANIUM 5D 2.0TD RUBY RED 125000 2016 Citroen Berlingo Hdi75 625kg Enterprise Swb 3d White 63000 2016 FIESTA 1.25 ZETEC 60PS 5SP DEEP IMPACT BLUE 42000 2016 KUGA 4 SEAT TITANIUM 2.0 150PS 6 SPEED MAGNETIC 120000 2016 Opel Astra Sri 1.6 Cdti 110ps 5dr Silver 125000 2016 FOCUS TITANIUM 4DR 1.5TD 120PS TECTONIC SILVER 88000 2016 Ford Focus Style 4dr 1.5td 95Ps 6spd 4dr Lunar Sky 46000 2016 Focus Titanium 1.6TDCI (90ps) 5 Door 5Sp MOONDUST SILVER 109000 2016 FORD MONDEO ZETEC 5D 1.5TD MAGNETIC 136100 2016 FOCUS TITANIUM 5DR 1.5TDCI 120PS 6SPD Deep Impact Blue 110000 2016 Mazda Cx-5 2wd 2.2d (150Ps) Exec Se Ipm 4 Grey 85400 2016 FOCUS TITANIUM 1.6TD 95 5 DOOR 6 SPEED Silver 121150 2016 CMAX ZETEC COMPACT 5D 1.5TD 95 MOONDUST SILVER 112000 2016 Toyota Auris 1.2t Luna 4dr Black 106000 2016 FOCUS ZETEC 1.6 DURATORQ 95PS 5DR SILVER 78000 2016 Renault Captur Intense 1.5 Dci 90 Eu6M 4dr White 172000 2016 FIESTA 5DR ZETEC 1.25 60PS 5SPD Grey 30000 2017 FOCUS 5DR TITIANIUM 1.5TD 95PS 6SPD Absolute Black 84675 2017 MONDEO ZETEC 5D 1.5TD 120PS 6SPD Magnetic 87500 2017 Ford Focus Style 1.5td 95Ps 6spd 4dr SILVER 109000 2017 FOCUS 4DR ZETEC 1.5TD 95PS 6SPD Candy Red 50000 2017 FOCUS STYLE 1.5TD 5DR 95PS SHAWDOW BLACK 125000 2017 Ford Kuga 1.5tdci 120ps Fwd 4 Seat Comm MOONDUST SILVER 84000 2017 FOCUS 4DR TITANIUM 1.5TD 95PS 6SPD GREY 70000 2017 FORD MONDEO ZETEC 5D 1.5TD 120PS 6SPD MOONDUST SILVER 72000 2017 FOCUS ZETEC 1.5TD 95PS 5DR TECTONIC SILVER 112000 2017 ECOSPORT TITANTIUM 1.5TD 90PS 5SPD MOONDUST SILVER 60000 2017 FORD KUGA TITANIUM 5D 2.0TD SILVER 93000 2017 Ford Focus Style 1.5td 95Ps 6spd 4dr BLACK 88000 2017 FIESTA 5DR ZETEC 1.5TD 75PS 5SPD Race Red 30000 2017 Ford Ecosport Titanium 1.5tdci 95Ps M5 4dr Grey 53000 2017 ECOSPORT TITANIUM 5D 1.5 95PS Shadow Black 52000 2017 Nissan Nissan Micra 1.0 Sv 4dr Red 49000 2017 FOCUS ST-LINE 5DR 1.5TDCI 120P WHITE 136000 2017 Audi A3 Sportback Sportback 1.6tdi 116 Se 4dr Grey 63000 2018 Opel Astra Sc 1.6cdti 110ps 5dr Grey 85000 2018 CMAX ZETEC COMPACT 5D 1.5TD 95PS M6 SILVER 104000 2018 TRANSIT CUSTOM KOMBI 310LWB (T) 2.0 130PS Magnetic 124860 2018 Volkswagen Caddy Pv Tdi 102hp M5F Grey 42000 2018 Nissan Nissan Qashqai 1.5 Sv Ss 18 4dr Grey 87000 2018 Volkswagen Sharan 2.0 Tdi Se 7 Seater Silver 88000

Hyundai I30 1.6 Deluxe Crosswagon 5dr Mondeo Zetec 2.0TDCI (140ps) 5 Door 6 Spd FOCUS 4DR TITANIUM 1.6TD 95PS 6SPD C-MAX 1.6TD ACTIV 95PS 5 SEAT C-MAX GRAND 1.6TD ACTIV 95PS FOCUS TITANIUM 1.6TD 95 5 DOOR 6 SPEED FOCUS 4DR ZETEC 1.6TD 95PS 6SPD KUGA ZETEC 2.0TDCI 140PS 2WD 4DR 6SPD FOCUS ZETEC 1.6TD 95 5DOOR 6SPEED Opel Astra Sc 1.7cdti 110ps 4dr C-MAX 1.6TD ACTIV 95PS 5 SEAT Toyota Corolla 1.4d4D Terra Mc 4dr FIESTA MCA ZETEC 1.0 65PS 5SPD 5DR Toyota Avensis 2.0 D4D T2 4dr Ford Mondeo 2.0 Tdci Zetec 138hp 6 Speed 5dr FOCUS EDGE 1.6TD 95 4DOOR 6SPP KUGA C520 TITANIUM 2.0 140 Nissan Micra 1.2 30 4dr MONDEO TITANIUM PLUS 1.6TD FOCUS 5DR EDGE 1.6TD 95PS 6SPD FOCUS ZETEC 1.6TD 95 5DOOR 6SPEED KUGA ZETEC 2.0TDCI 140PS 2W B-MAX ZETEC 1.5TDCI 90PS 5SPD 5DR Ford C-Max 2013 5myactiv 1.6tdci 95Ps Compact Volkswagen Tiguan Ll 2.0tdi M6F 110hp 5dr EDITION 1.6TD 95PS 6SP 5 DOOR Ford Transit T260 125 Trend Fwd EDITION 1.6TD 95PS 6SPD 5 C-MAX ACTIVE 1.6TD 95PS Ford Kuga Titanium 2.0tdci 120ps Fwd 4dr FOCUS ZETEC 1.6TD 95 5DOOR 6SP Ka Edge 1.2 Petrol (70ps) 3 Door Ford Focus Zetec 1.6tdci 95Ps FORD KUGA TITANIUM 5D 2.0TD FOCUS TITANIUM 1.6 DURATORQ 95PS 4DR Ford Transit V363 350 Lwb Trend 155ps Rwd 3dr Toyota Yaris 1.0 5dr Sol 4dr Volkswagen Jetta Tl 2.0tdi M5F 110hp 4dr KUGA ZETEC TREND 2.0 TDCI 120PS Ford Fiesta McA Zetec 1.5 75Ps M5 5dr

Black Lunar Sky Blue GOLD Silver SILVER Lunar Sky GREY SILVER Black Silver Red Silver Silver Blue Silver Dark Micastone Brown Panther Black Silver Silver Deep Impact Blue Silver Brown Brown Dark Micastone Blue SILVER Lunar Sky Panther Black White Silver White GREY Grey White Black Blue White MAGNETIC

160247 210000 138000 102000 152000 160000 151730 160000 146000 101000 195000 240000 110000 227000 102000 143624 280000 90000 146000 178000 168000 130000 85000 81000 145000 127400 165000 137000 81000 140000 127000 66000 141000 119000 133580 180000 90000 73000 112000 140000

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Sport Clare Echo THE

15-07-21

pg 36

instagram.com/ClareEcho twitter.com/ClareEcho facebook.com/clareecho clareecho.ie

Road to Croker begins in Ballinasloe EOIN BRENNAN

C

OMPLACENCY certainly won’t be an issue for the Clare Ladies Footballers this weekend after an opening round stumble almost cost them their championship lives last year.

The Banner’s All-Ireland Intermediate title ambitions appeared dead in the water before they could even get started after being sucker-punched by Kildare in Banagher. But while it somehow worked out in the end as Clare managed to miraculously squeeze through to the All-Ireland semi-finals on score difference, it was a little too close for comfort according to experienced defender Carol O’Leary.

“The manner of getting to last year’s All-Ireland semi-final was brilliant but realistically it came down to that because we were slow

coming out of the blocks against Kildare, a game we should have won and didn’t. So that’s probably in the back of our minds too in that we don’t want it to come down to that type of a situation again this year. We’re really focused now on our first game against Leitrim this Sunday and then Fermanagh seven days later and it’s all about performing on both days to ensure that our fate in is our own hands.”

With quarter-finals reinstalled this year, it means that two teams will emerge from the group of three but the Newmarket-on-Fergus native is not taking anything for granted.“Clare are the seeded team in the group but the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship is a very balanced playing field and sometimes you don’t know from year to year how a team is going.

There isn’t that much of a gap between the top and the bottom of the intermediate championship so a lot of it is about getting our own heads right first and foremost.

“It’s great now to actually have matches again. We’re so looking forward to it and to have the two group games week after week now, once it starts, it’s going to really fly by so we just have to make the most of it”.

The secondary school teacher is not shy when it comes to ambitions with the county side this year. “I think we’re in a good place now, girls that missed the league are coming back from injuries and everyone is really chomping at the bit now as we’ve so much competition for places. Definitely the last four is our major aim though.

There’s no point saying anything else, I mean we’re not doing all this training four times a week for moral victories, we want to at least get back to a semi-final.”

Following a debut season as coach in 2020, Evan Talty’s elevation to the managerial hot-seat of Clare ladies football is matched by that heightened ambition for this year’s Championship.

Carol O’Leary Photo by Gerard O’Neill

“The girls need to have a target and there’s no point saying otherwise. We have a target and that is to reach Croke Park.”

The Kilmurry Ibrickane clubman is happy to report a full squad

to choose from for the first time this year ahead of their opening championship bout against Leitrim in Duggan Park in Ballinasloe on Sunday at 2pm.

Much to play for as football leagues near conclusion SEAMUS HAYES THE destination of a number of the adult football league trophies will be decided this weekend as the final round of games in all seven divisions are down for decision.

In the Cusack Cup (Division 1), there are three teams currently on seven points each with three wins and a draw to their credits.

St. Josephs Miltown lead the way on score difference while the other two clubs challenging them for the title are St. Breckans and Ennistymon.

Miltown welcome fourth placed Clondegad to Hennessy Park this week with the home side fancied to maintain their unbeaten run.

St. Breckans make the journey to Quilty to play Kilmurry-Ibrickane with the Lisdoonvarna outfit carrying the favourites tag while Ennistymon host Kildysart.

In Division 2 (Garry cup) unbeaten Lissycasey are favourites to capture the title. A draw or win will see them crowned winners of

this title. They travel to Labasheeda to play bottom of the table Shannon Gaels in their final game.

Lissycasey have maximum points from their four outings to date while they also have a superior score difference over their nearest rivals St. Josephs Doora/Barefield who have three wins from four outings. They play Kilrush at Gurteen and the shamrocks also have three wins from four outings with the Parish just ahead of the West Clare side on score difference.

The Division 3 title is between neighbours Wolfe Tones and Cratloe who clash at Shannon. The home side go into this game with maximum points while Cratloe have lost once which means that a draw will be enough for the Tones to claim the title.

It’s a little more complicated in Division 4 as the group includes nine teams so there will be one more round after this week as the teams that have received byes to date will be given an opportunity to play so that their tally of games will be the same as those who will complete their fifth round this week.

In Division 5 a draw or a win for Doonbeg who make the journey to Meelick will see them claim the title. Any slip up by the Magpies and Cratloe or Lissycasey could come into the reckoning.

Wolfe Tones are also in the running for the Division 6 title and victory for them over Michael Cusacks on Sunday evening will earn them the title.

Ennistymon lead the Division 7 table from Lissycasey and they meet in Lissycasey this Saturday evening in their final game.

With the start of the adult championships just a couple of weeks away, this weekend’s league ties should provide plenty of entertainment.

*Conor Shannon will be in action for St Breckans.

Photograph: Burren Eye Photography

pg 37

15-07-21

Clare Echo THE

instagram.com/ClareEcho twitter.com/ClareEcho facebook.com/clareecho clareecho.ie

Covid debacle adds edge to rivalry Darach Honan’s CHAMPIONSHIP ANALYSIS A FIXTURE written in the stars, Clare Echo columnist Darach Honan looks ahead to the knockout clash between Clare and Wexford.

This fixture seems as though it was written in the stars since the start of the season. These two counties hit headlines after their league clash earlier in the year, when Wexford players tested positive for Covid and identified Clare hurlers as close contacts, seemingly without naming any of the Wexford panel they shared a dressing room and transport with.

It was generally accepted that Wexford had behaved poorly in this debacle but despite this, the Wexford chairman called on Brian Lohan to apologise. This contributed to the ill feeling that surrounds a considerable grudge match. There will be a real edge to this game as no camp will want to take a backwards step.

After an equally controversial game against Tipperary, Clare will be looking to bounce back with a win this weekend. Wexford put in a super performance in their Leinster semi final clash v Kilkenny. The team’s movement and use of the ball troubled the Cats, who took the full 70 minutes plus extra time to see them off. Wexford looked the best they had in years and played with huge hunger and pace.

They had a numerical advantage in extra time when Eoin Murphy was sin binned, but as happened v Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi final of 2019, they could not take advantage of it. In fact, Kilkenny looked the far better of the two teams despite being at this disadvantage and went on to win comfortably as Wexford energy levels waned in extra time.

Having put so much into the performance against the Cats and not coming away with a victory, it will be interesting to see how Wexford respond. It was a physically and emotionally taxing game, as Wexford were forced to re-introduce players who had come off previously in extra time. It can be hard to rebound from a game like that. Clare’s response to the injustice of their loss to Tipperary will also be compelling, because an event like that can be a huge motivating factor for a team. If they can circle the wagons and play with a chip on their shoulder it will be a dangerous prospect for Wexford.

When these sides met in the league, Clare beat themselves. We played all the hurling and dominated play for the first 55 minutes. Only our ill-discipline kept Wexford in the game, as they were able to stay within touching distance by scoring frees. Further ill-discipline cost us the game when we went a man down after a red card was issued in the 56th minute.

Wexford then hit their purple patch and were able to play the ball through the lines without Clare defenders getting close to them. They worked the ball really well to their forwards, and when Rory O’Connor and Lee Chin started to run at the Clare defence it caused havoc.

John Conlon closes down Wexford’s Lee Chin and (inset) Davy gets animated in a previous encounter between Clare and Wexford Photos by Martin Connolly

This will be a concern for Clare, particularly after this was done to great effect by Tipperary in our last outing.

If Wexford were to play Rory O’Connor and Lee Chin in the half forward line this weekend, they could take advantage of a weakness in our game.

By withdrawing a sweeper, Wexford are quite one dimensional in that they do not have an option to hit deep ball to an inside forward line. This can lead to their inside line being easily nullified. However, if they can work ball through the lines and get O’Connor and Chin in possession 65 yards out from goal they can be dangerous.

Wexford have no shortage of talent in the county; this group won three Leinster under 21 titles in a row and those guys are now in their prime. Clare have a good record against them in recent years, mostly because their style of play was stale and predictable. But against Kilkenny they looked to be back to their best. If they can dictate the pace of play and the terms of the game this Saturday, they are good enough to win.

Conversely, if Clare can learn from the Tipp game and tweak a few things they should be strong enough to get over this game. From a team selection point of view, Davy McInerney has to be brought into the defence. Personally, I feel Jack Browne should also be in the team but that is looking unlikely at the moment. If we can also improve our scoring efficiency and our discipline then this game is there for Clare to be won.

The qualifiers represent a huge opportunity for both squads. There is lots riding on this game for Wexford. They have been on a downward slide for the last few years and a loss here could spell the end of their manager’s term down there. However, a big win against Clare after a great performance against Kilkenny could make them a dangerous side going forward.

Clare will be keen to show improvement from last year and a win this weekend is essential to that. If Clare could progress it would put them in a great position for the remainder of the championship; the awaiting Cork or Galway would not be keen to see a Clare team coming with momentum. It promises to be an enthralling affair with plenty of side stories to keep us engaged and I think Clare people will be happy with the result as we should have enough to see off Wexford.

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15-07-21

Clare Echo THE

pg 38

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A case of scalp hunting, and dodging for O’Dea EOIN BRENNAN

E

MBROILED in a Group of Death for camogie and a welcome Group of Life for football, there’s no room for error on either front for Niamh O’Dea and Co. this weekend.

Contrasting expectations stem from the fact that Clare are pooled with perennial favourites Kilkenny and Galway for two All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship knock-out spots while on the flip side the Banner are the seeded team at the group stages of the All-Ireland Intermediate Ladies Football Championship.

It essentially means that Ger O’Connell’s side must go scalp hunting against champions Kilkenny on home soil on Saturday and then scalp dodging in Ballinasloe on Sunday against a Leitrim side that managed to finally end a four

year barren ladies football championship run last weekend.

However, it’s an all too familiar hectic dual mandate that Niamh O’Dea and Siofra Ní Chonaill simply take in their stride.“We’re used to that at this stage now,” admits the talismanic O’Dea who has been previously nominated for an All-Star in both codes. Evan [Talty] and Ger [O’Connell] have been very good to us, they have schedules made out to make sure that we are not overloaded so it’s just about getting on with it now. Both teams have big ambitions this year so it’s just about doing what we can to contribute best to both panels.”

2020 was the first time in 12 seasons that Clare contested the business end of All-Ireland Championship in both codes, with the ladies footballers reaching the All-Ireland Intermediate semi-finals, only to be humbled by eventual champions Meath by 21 points.

“Especially with the way last year panned out, I think everyone has a

O’Dea is one of Clare’s dual stars Burren Eye Photography

point to prove this year so hopefully it’s going to be a big year for us.

There are very few of us left from 2016 when we last played in the

All-Ireland Final so it means that there’s no real hangovers there as this is essentially a new group. Last year really gave everyone a taste of

how far we can go and what this group is capable of achieving so there has been a big effort put in and a big push to hopefully go one better.”

Despite being raging favourites to top a group that involves Leitrim and Fermanagh, O’Dea is experienced enough not to build any castles in the sky when it comes to championship ambitions. “The Intermediate championship is one of the hardest to win but I think we’re in a good position. There’s a good panel there, a good ethos and a great atmosphere around training. The lads have put in a lot of work and everything has gone well in terms of preparations so it’s just down to us to perform on the pitch and take what we’ve learned into match day.

“We wouldn’t all be here if we didn’t think we had a chance and everything has been geared towards helping us play to our potential.

And if that happens, who knows what the summer will bring”.

O'Connell believes Clare can 'rattle' Kilkenny in championship opener

by SEAMUS HAYES

next to Lynch's Centra, Gort Road, Ennis 065 684 9600

THERE is a lot of positivity in the Clare camogie camp ahead of Saturday’s All-Ireland senior championship first round clash with the champions Kilkenny, according to Clare manager Ger O’Connell.

The Clonlara clubman readily admitted that “it’s a tough draw” to be in a group that includes the two teams that played the league final just a couple of weeks ago.

The All-Ireland minor hurling winning goalkeeper with Clare in 1997 stressed, “We are not looking past Saturday’s meeting with the All-Ireland champions. It’s a massive game for us and we have home advantage which is important. It’s going to be tough.

The girls have trained really well for what will be a really tough game.”

O’Connell and his backroom team expect to be able to select from a full panel. “There are the usual few niggles but, as of now, everyone is available”, he told The Clare Echo. “The win over Dublin in the league relegation play off

Ger O’Connell Burren Eye Photography

recently provided a really good lift for us. It was a pressure game. Our league form prior to that was inconsistent. We started poorly but finished strong.

We have tried our best to learn from those games”.

The Clare boss accepts that Kilkenny “are the standard bearers” while insisting, “we showed last year that they are beatable”.

“They can be rattled and they were really rattled by Limerick recently while Tipperary had them rattled in the league semi-final.

We will target them in cer-

tain areas”.

O’Connell is looking forward to having some spectators attend the game.

“The girls have been training since February and it’s been tough. Indeed it’s been tough for the last year and a half. Everything we have done has been targeted towards this time of the year. We have to go into this game with positivity.”

Kilkenny will carry the favourites tag but will be wary of the challenge they are facing as recent contests between the counties have been very close.

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Hehir hopes Clare will make their mark

C

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

LARE could hardly have asked for a tougher challenge in the opening round of the All-Ireland senior camogie championship than a meeting with the defending champions Kilkenny who are also the current league title holders.

However, that’s the card they have been dealt and they must face the Noresiders at O’Garney Park in Sixmilebridge on this Saturday.

“If you have any intentions of winning you have to face teams like this, you have to take on the champions”, according to Banner captain Clare Hehir.

While the Inagh-Kilnamona player acknowledged that it’s a huge challenge for Clare she says

Camogie captain Clare Hehir

that the Banner side “have no fears about playing them. We beat them in the league last year in Nowlan Park and we are looking forward to Saturday’s game”.

She felt that the team had “a disappointing enough league campaign but we had a good win over Dublin recently to secure our division 1 league status for next season and that was good preparation”.

The defender believes that the squad has “done all the hard work over the last few months and we are ready for this challenge. The girls have put in a tremendous effort both during the lockdown and since we returned to collective training”.

She acknowledged that Clare are “facing a very tough campaign, three tough games in three

weeks. There will have to be a big focus on recovering and getting ready for the next game. It will be about looking after ourselves”.

In round 2 Clare will head up the road to play Galway, another of the favourites for the All-Ireland title before coming back to home soil for their final group game when they will entertain Westmeath.

“We got to the quarter final last year and that was a big step and we were happy to take that step.

We are looking to push on again this year”, according to the full back. “Every game is important and the first two will tell us a lot.

Yes, we have been handed a tough route but we will have to play them sometime and it’s just as well to face them at the start,” the captain concluded.

Burren Eye Photography

P R O T E C T I O N LT D .

Best wishes to

Inagh Kilnamona

camogie team in the

county final We Offer a complete range of services which include Fire Equipment this weekend Maintenance/Installation, Training Courses.

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Feakle’s loss blows open Clare Cup Cratloe 1-20 Crusheen 1-14

EOIN BRENNAN THE race for this year’s Clare Cup has been blown open after Feakle suffered their first set-back of 2021 against Inagh-Kilnamona.

It means Feakle, Sixmilebridge and Cratloe are locked at the top of the table ahead of the final round on Saturday week that throws up a Garneyside derby showdown between Cratloe and Sixmilebridge while Feakle must take down holders Kilmaley on away soil.

Clare Cup Division 1A Round 4 Inagh-Kilnamona 3-19 Feakle 0-15

A first Clare Cup crown in 33 years is still tangible but Feakle’s home party was unceremoniously spoiled by Inagh-Kilnamona on Saturday. Goals from David Mescall (2) and Kevin Hehir did the early damage as Feakle suffered a first half horror show that they never recovered from after trailing by 3-10 to 0-09 at the midway mark. The hosts did regroup, with chief marksman Shane McGrath reaching double figures once more.

However, the experience of Conor Tierney and Kevin Hehir kept any revolt at bay as Inagh-Kilnamona build pre-championship momentum with back-to-back victories.

Sixmilebridge 1-19 Broadford 0-14

A devastating opening half display effectively ended this derby as a contest in Broadford on Saturday evening as Sixmilebridge collected their third consecutive victory.

With the wind at their backs, the backto-back county champions hit the ground running with a Brian Corry goal and a succession of points, mainly through Jamie Shanahan who was excellent from long range frees and ended up with eight points.

The ‘Bridge’s clinicalness was in contrast to a profligate Broadford who hit 17 wides over the hour, with the majority coming in that opening period which allowed the visitors to carve out a 1-13 to 0-05 interval cushion.

A third win on the spin has boosted Cratloe into Clare Cup contention after holding off Crusheen at home on Saturday.

Having left it late against Inagh-Kilnamona and Kilmaley, this time Cratloe struck early and remained in the ascendancy through bouts of heavy rain. An early Mikey Hawes goal settled the hosts into their stride and while Breffni Horner responded with a like score for the visitors, Cratloe always kept their noses in front before finishing the half with a flourish, mainly through Rian Considine to power 1-14 to 1-07 clear.

Murrough McMahon reduced the deficit to five on the restart while Cratloe’s attempts to finish the contest were halted by a superb Donal Tuohy stop from Considine.

Kilmaley 3-20 Clooney-Quin 0-13

Kilmaley bounced back to winning ways in style when easing away from Clooney-Quin on away soil on Saturday.

A Mikey O’Malley goal in the opening minutes was the perfect boost for the visitors who had suffered two recent defeats. Sean O’Loughlin was Kilmaley’s chief marksman in the absence of Cian Moloney on their way to a 1-12 to 0-07 interval lead. Darragh Keogh’s frees had kept a lacklustre Clooney-Quin in touch but a Sean O’Loughlin third quarter goal extended the gap further to 10 points before substitute Barry Lynch capped off a dominant final quarter (1-5 to 0-2) with a third major for the holders.

Inagh-Kilnamona received a major shot in the arm on home soil on Monday when gaining some retribution on chief rivals Sixmilebridge by 0-20 to 1-15 to finish on top of the Under 15A Hurling Championship group table.

Edged out by the same opponents in last year’s Under 14A Final after extra-time, Inagh-Kilnamona kept Sixmilebridge at arm’s length this time. James Hegarty (0-10) and Fred Hegarty (0-4) were to the fore as the home side established a 0-9 to 0-6 interval advantage which they expanded further on the turnover, aided by a four point second half haul for Jack Mescall.

Sixmilebridge remained in touch, mainly through Cillian Murphy’s nine point tally from placed balls but being reduced to 14 hampered their hopes. Inagh-Kilnamona hung on to cement a semi-final with Clonlara on Monday week while Sixmilebridge take on Doora/ Barefield in the other last four clash.

Photo by Ruth Griffin

Ballyea 2-13 Clonlara 1-12

A first victory for Ballyea at home dashed Clonlara’s ambitions of securing early silverware in a good test in testing conditions.

A blitzkrieg attack just before the first water break would prove decisive as Clonlara’s positive start was wiped out through quick fire goals from Martin O’Leary and Aaron Griffin. Those strikes would remain the difference thereafter as once Cathal O’Connell had to succumb to an injury, Clonlara’s wide count prevented them from mounting any meaningful fightback.

Inagh/Kilnamona gain retribution over ‘bridge in U15 championship

by EOIN BRENNAN

Inagh-Kilnamona’s Eoin Fitzgerald tries to get past Enda Noonan of Feakle

Those pairings were confirmed after the Parish inflicted a 2-19 to 0-10 defeat on Clonlara while the U15A Shield Final will be contested by Éire Óg and Clarecastle who also played out a dress rehearsal on Monday that the Townies won by 5-19 to 1-14.

The line-ups for the knock-out stages of the Under 15B and C Hurling Championships will also be confirmed on Monday week following the nine final round matches.

Kilmaley, Clooney-Quin, Cratloe, Ballyea, O’Callaghan’s Mills/Bodyke and Newmarket-on-Fergus will contest the Under 15B Quarter-Finals where they await winners of two quarter-final play-offs - to be contested by two of Tulla, Broadford and Feakle/Killanena (Group 1) along with Whitegate and one of Scariff/Ogonnelloe, Smith O’Brien’s and Wolfe Tones (Group 2).

Those that fail to make the cut from Group 2 will contest the Under 15C Championship Semi-Finals alongside Crusheen/Tubber, Banner or possibly Ennistymon.

Strike sports soccer camp Mon 26th July to 30th July Lee’s road Ennis www.strikesports.ie to book now

SHOP ONLINE NOW AT strikesport.ie

Web: strikesport.ie Phone: 087 8055306 Email: Kieran@strikesport.ie

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Lahinch welcomes Lowry ahead of Open

by SEAMUS HAYES LAHINCH GOLF CLUB LAST week Lahinch welcomed the Open Champion, Offaly man Shane Lowry, to Lahinch where he got some links practice ahead of the defence of his title next week at Royal St. George’s. On behalf of the members, Captains Margaret Cooney and Johnny O’Brien wished Shane every success as they posed on the first tee with Shane and the Claret Jug. Following the Drive-In by captains Margaret Cooney and Johnnie O’Brien at Lahinch on Sunday, the club’s first major prize presentation of the season took place on the first tee for the winners of the following competitions: Men’s Captains Prize to the Ladies (Yvonne Morrison); O’Loughlin Cup (Mary Fehily); JK Brice Cup (Jacqueline Joyce); Ladies Monthly Medal (Angela Cullinan); Burns-Lindow Cup (Kathleen Hayes); Neville Stewart Cup (Peggy Costello) and Barratt-Smith Cup (Siobhan Fenton).

Lady Captain’s Prize to the Men (Paul Cagney); Phelps Vase (Owen O’Neill); Ennistymon House Cup (Kevin Donovan); Frank O’Brien Cup (Fergus Blake); Men’s Monthly Medal (John Wood); Kilcoran House Cup (Darragh Gough); Pretoria Cup (Sean Kelly); Coolbawn Cup (John Wood); Mick O’Loughlin Trophy (Kieran Maher).Mixed Foursomes: Lakeside Cup (John Daly & Mary Fahey Coen).

On the Inter-Club scene, the Ladies Challenge Cup team managed

by Evelyn Lyons lost to East Clare 3.5/1.5 while the Ladies Junior Foursomes managed by Anne O’Riordan were defeated by Dromoland Castle..

The Senior Men’s Fred Perry team managed by Brian McElhinney played Ennis last Tuesday in the Munster West quarter final. With

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the overall match tied at 2/2, play in the final match was suspended after the 21st hole due to light. When the match resumed Ennis’ Mickey Sullivan and Brendan Pyne defeated Dave Sheedy and Dan Donovan at the Klondyke as Pyne recorded a birdie.

The Mixed foursomes managed by Aedin McCarthy and Jimmy Doyle play Ennis on this Thursday at 4pm and they are followed by the Men’s Junior Cup team managed by Dave Givens who play East Clare at 6pm. Áine Donegan finished tied 5th in the individual competition which was part of the European Ladies team championship taking place at Royal County Down. Ireland qualified in second but were narrowly defeated

by Italy to exit the Championship.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The lady captain’s (Mary Bolton) prize was played for on Saturday when Agnes Shannon (21) emerged as the winner with 66. She had two strokes to spare over Joan O’Malley (20) with third spot filled by Margaret Clancy (14), also with 68. They were followed by Helen Williams (29) with 69, Ailish Lorigan (16) with 69 and Jean Lorigan (33) with 70. Anne Brennan (12) won the gross with 81 Nicola O’Leary (29) won the front 9 with 32.5 while Muriel Kiely (30) was the winner of the back 9 with 34.

In the lady captain’s 9 hole competition Martina Fox (19) was the winner with 18 points from Loretta Browne (18) with 12 points. The junior ladies 8 hole competition was won by Eabha Brennan (15) on 19 points The Gypsy Girl boutique ladies competition was won by Margaret Clancy (15) with 40 points from Joan O’Malley (20) with 35 and Mary McCarthy (29) with 33, while the 12 hole winner was Martina Fox (24 pts).

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Last week’s open singles at Wood-

To book an appointment call us on 065 684 0844

stock was won by Aidan Griffey (19) with 49 points from Eoghan McElhinney (29) with 45, Mike T Kelly (13) with 45 and Marion Mulvey Fahy (42) with 44. Jason Considine (2) won the gross with 28.

The weekend singles was won

by Ronan O’Halloran (23) with 44 points from Ruairi Breen (18) with a similar score. Joe Colleran (27) was third with 42 points followed by Shane McCarthy (15) with 41 points with fifth spot filled by Gary Thompson (17) with 41 points. Colm Mullen (4) won the gross with 34 points, The Fred Daly Junior boys defeated Kilrush, winning 2 matches in Kilrush and 1 at home. They play Ennis in the next round.

Last week’s senior modified team scramble was won by Brian Logue, Declan Rigney and Matt Power with an impressive 53 points.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The senior ladies outing at Ennis last week was won by Mary McMahon, Maeve O’Grady and Carmel Cummins with 49 3/4 with second spot going to Anne O’Loughlin, Eileen Daly and Kathleen Pyne with 50 1/4. In third spot with 52 1/3 were Mary Glynn, Phil Butler and Patricia Kerwin with fourth place filled by Carmel Verling, Bernie Brooke and Betty O’Riordan with 44 3/4.

There will be a ladies open day, sponsored by Haven Pharmacy Hollys on Thursday July 29 when the format will be teams of two.

The lady captain’s weekend will commence on July 22 with a mixed competition while the lady captain’s prize will be played for on Saturday July 24 from which the top 18 will qualify for a 9 hole stroke play off.

The junior girls team, managed

by Jean Moloney and Claire Ruane, were victorious against Charleville last week.

Open week has been attracting big entries at Ennis during the past week and there has been some impressive scoring In the Sutton’s Lighting mixed foursomes the winners were Roy Duggan (16) and Mary Sweeney (41) (Woodstock) with 41 points and they won from Michael Neylon (21) and Yvonne Keohane (18) who had a similar score. In third spot with 40 points were

Kilrush Lady Captain Mary Bolton (left) with winner Agnes Shannon

Ronan Herbert (5) and Carmel Verling (24) followed by John (20) and Therese Lillis (49) with 39 points In the junior boys open Sean McNamara from Dromoland won with 43 points from Mark O’Connor with 42, Conor Clancy (Dromoland) with 42, Jack McAllister with 42 and Max Montwill (Woodstock) with 41. Jack Clohessy won the gross with 29 points.

The competition on day 2 was a team of three sponsored by the Munster Group and the winners were Peter Quinn (17), Michael Sullivan (14) and Don Ryan (16) with 87 points. They were followed by Conor Malone (8), Niall O’Connor (14) and Colin Higgins with 86 points. In third spot with 84 points were Richard O’Connell (14), Brendan Pyne (11) and Sean Daly Snr (14) followed

by Michael Kearney (9), Steve Burns (14) and Fergus O’Brien (14) with 83points Ronan O’Flaherty (8) won the men’s 9 hole competition with 20 points from Ger Donoghue (9) with a similar score.

The competition on day 3 was a men’s singles sponsored by the Old Ground Hotel and the winner here was Michael Cummins (20) with 45 points. He had four to spare over Donagh Stack (16) with Diarmuid O’Connor (7) from Dromoland next on 40 points followed by Gerry Daly (15) also with 40 points. Sean Myatt (scratch) won the gross with 38.

The O’Flaherty Electric team of four competition was won by John Lillis (17), Liam McCannon (15), David Pender (8) and Joe Carmody (14) with 93 points followed by Fintan McEvoy (20), Tom Fox (20) and Kieran Fox (3)and Padraig Cusack (14) with a similar score. In third spot on 92 points were Thomas Nelson (15), Patrick Madden (14), Tom Fox (14) (all Shannon) and Denis Rochford (9) (Ballyneety).

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: Eoghan Smith won the Friday open singles at Dromoland with 45 points from Frances Bergin with 40

points and Shane Browne with 38 points. Jason O’Leary won the gross with 34 points.

The weekend men’s singles was won by Thomas Halpin with 42 points from Kenneth Arthur with 41 and Niall Geraghty with a similar score. Killian Howard won the gross with 38 while Eoghan Smith won the category for handicaps 18 and over with 40 points. In the ladies medal 18 hole strokeplay the winner was Carola Wixted with 72 from Mairead Bergin with 73 and Ann Nix with 74.

Leslie O’Flynn won the gross with 86 The men’s 9 hole competition was won by Con Ryan with 20 points from Con Woods on 19 points and Brendan Lennon with 19 points.

Katriona O’Neill won the ladies 19 hole competition with 22 points from Niamh McDermott with 21 and Ruth Casey with 20.

The boys July 6 outing resulted in victory for Darragh McNamara with 52 points of the white tees and Conor Clancy with 43 points.

The July 8 outing was won by Donnacda Mahon off the white tees with 40 points with Aaron Piccolo off the black tees with 41 points while the girls competition was won by Sive Timmons with 30 points KILKEE GOLF CLUB: The Wednesday open singles at Kilkee was won by Donnacha McNamara (19) with 38 points from Con McGee (8) with 37 points with third spot filled by Dave Fitzpatrick (11) with 36 points.

Friday’s 9 hole singles was won by Tim Ahern (5) with 18 points from David O’Connell (7) with a similar score.

The Houlihan cup was played for on Sunday when Sean Minihan (16) won with 41 points. He won by a point from Brian Purcell (17) with 40 points while Ciaran Woods (13) won with 38 points.

The club’s 125th anniversary classic will take place on this Saturday and Sunday and teams, costing €120, can be booked by contacting 0659056048 DOONBEG GOLF CLUB: The recent fourball competition at Doonbeg Links was won by Billy Farrell and Gerard Kelly with 43 points from Michael Bermingham and Diarmuid O’Donnell with a similar score. Padraig Conway and Timmy Killeen, also with 43 points In last week’s singles competition Sean Molonery(21) was the winner with 43 points from Pierce Casey (29) with 42 points. In third spot with 39 points was Michael Lynch (26) followed by Diarmuid Griffin (15) with 37 points with fifth spot filled by Tiimmy Killeen (12) with 37 points.

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Cullinan signs with Casey on the run to European Champs’ Sheffield United Newmarket-on-Fergus native Harvey Cullinan has officially put pen to paper on his first professional contract with Sheffield Utd. Harvey has made a big impression with the Blades since joining them in April 2019 as part of their professional development squad, it followed a number of trials with English clubs off the back of his exploits at club and county level.

Cullinan showed himself to be a key player with Sheffield Utd’s U18 side last season which resulted in the midfielder earning appearances at U23 level.

Elsewhere, Treaty Utd manager Tommy Barrett has confirmed that goalkeeper Shane Cusack is returning to Newmarket Celtic.

Former Athlone Town and Limerick FC netminder Cusack was previously part of the underage ranks with Colchester FC. His return to Newmarket will be a big boost to the League and Cup champions who are managed by Mark O’Malley.

Further Newmarket-on-Fergus exploits in the world of the beautiful game were capped off by Callum McNamara earning the player of the month gong from Treaty Utd fans.

because

THIS RUNS

Find out more about Jackie and other amazing greyhound stories on grireland.ie/thisrunsdeep

ENNIS athlete Dean Casey has been selected to represent his country in the U20 European Championships.

Winner of the U18 National Cross Country Championship in 2019, the Ennis Track athlete, Dean will now be representing his country in the U20 European Championships.

Coached by Pat Hogan, the St Flannan’s College pupil has been earmarked as the one of the top athletic prospects in the county.

“Any athlete trained by Pat receives his undivided attention, a coach who like many others volunteers many hours for the love of athletics and to encourage every athlete to be their best,” a spokesperson for Ennis Track outlined.

It is the latest lift for the club with Cratloe’s Cathal Crosbie having got the nod for the Athletics Ireland team in the European U23 Championship.

The Ennis Track athlete was part of the 30 strong Irish contingent. He was involved in the men’s 4 X 400m relay and is coached

by Hayley and Drew Harrison.

Final spot for Ballyea Sydney BALLYEA Sydney owned by Noel Gavin has qualified for the final of the Michael Tobin Memorial Sweepstake.

The semi finals of the Michael Tobin Memorial A4 525 Sweepstake was the main attraction in Limerick on Saturday. In the second semi-final Ballyea Sydney broke his duck for owner as an easy-to-back 11/2 shot. The Tom Flanagan of Ennistymon trained August 19’ whelp maintained a strong gallop from the opening corner and he stayed on stoutly to account for a four and a half length defeat of Tyrap Shane in second. The time was a swift 28.88 and that win was to prove the first leg of a double for trainer Tom Flanagan as Mythical Hippy also scored in the concluding race of the night; a neck victory in 29.06.

There was a huge performance in race nine which was an Open/A1 contest as Coolavanny Palm, owned by David Hogan of Quilty, slayed his rivals to record a sensational 28.29.

Rockalong Rocket owned by Tulla’s Michael McNamara had been off the racing scene since early May but the talented black made a winning return to record the fastest sprint clock of the night. Heading to trap 5 a 5/2 shot, Rockalong Rocket controlled the race to record a three and a half length victory in a quick 18.83.

Pinnacle Rio owned by Michael Costelloe of North Clare saw all his rivals off by a length and three parts in 30.51 in the opening heat of the A3 550 Stake in Galway on Friday night last. Rounding the home bend Pinnacle Rio was home and hosed scoring by a length and three parts from Croaghill Linda in 30.51.

Following a pretty level break in race two for this S5 graded sprint contest, the

Niall O’Riordan owned Non Stop squeezed through along the rails at the opening bend to take command. The Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained daughter of Sheneboy Lee and Raficky proved three and three quarter lengths too good for Cold Blow in 19.32.

As the traps rose in race 3 for this A8 graded contest, the Joe Collins of Parteen trained Shanakyle Mattie and Millrose Billy disputed proceedings. The lead exchanging twice before the Shanakyle Syndicate owned dog took command on he home bend and the son of Ballymac Matt and Kilgraney Mile stayed on well to score by a length in 29.80.

At the College Road Venue on Saturday, the Jerry Maloney and Patrick O’Driscoll of Doora owned Ballaghboy Panda returned to winning form in heat two of the 525 Stake as the son of Lenson Panda and Sues Music comfortably won by two lengths in 29.40.

In the concluding heat, Askingforafriend came out on top of a thrilling contest which saw stiff competition from Lakeside Model and Ard Jet who led at the penultimate bend.

The Hey You Sir Syndicate of Ennis owned Askingforafriend, trained by Shane Flannagan of Ennis, held the late renewed effort of Ard Jet by a length in 29.30.

The Thomas Keane of Kilmihil owned Glynscrossbecky steamed to victory in the Novice 350 Yards contest winning by seven lengths in 19.36. Meanwhile In the A4 graded affair, the Marion Moroney of Ennis owned Allegra Blue - having been in trouble early - swept through along the inner off the home bend and struck the front close to defeat Bumblebee Love by two lengths in 29.37.

ANNIVERSARY

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021 BRID LITTLETON nee Keane Garruragh, Tulla 16 June 2021 John, Michael, Aine, Sean and Fiona would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to all who sympathised with us on the death of our much loved Brid - R.I.P. Thanks to all who sent mass cards, phone calls, texts, and online condolences.

Thanks also to the medical teams at Milford Care Centre, the doctors led by Helena, nurses led by Jackie and Kate, health worker Ciara, Palliative Home Care Nurse Fiona and ICS Nurse Anne.

Special thanks to our local medical team Dr Martin, Una, Bernie, our Pharmacist Morna, our Occupational Therapist Cúla and Public Health Nurse Theresa, we will always be in your debt for the fantastic love and care you offered to make it possible for Brid to be at home with us to the end.

Thanks also to Fr Brendan, Fr Brendan and Fr Martin together with Kate for making the funeral mass so special. And also to Denis, our funeral director, whose attention to detail left nothing to chance. To our neighbours and friends who minded us, fed us and looked after us in every possible way we are extremely grateful. Finally a special thanks to all who looked after the grave and entrance to the graveyard with flowers and cuttings ably led

by Barry, John, Ruth, Joe and to the friends of Brid who travelled and the people of Tulla who gave our Brid a special COVID Respected "Slán" Masses have been offered for your intentions.

Please accept this acknowledgement as our expression of our gratitude.

Obituaries

Acknowledgment

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BUILDING 156, SHANNON FREE ZONE, SHANNON, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Future Mobility Campus Ireland intend to apply for Permission for the construction of a fenced enclosure containing a dark fibre POP cabin with all associated site works adjacent to Building 156, Shannon Free Zone, Shannon, 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 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 AIRPORT AVENUE, SHANNON FREE ZONE, SHANNON, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Future Mobility Campus Ireland intends to apply for Permission for the installation of smart traffic lights and pedestrian crossings with all associated site works, at the four-way junction between Blocks N, O, Q & P on Airport Avenue at Shannon Free Zone, Shannon, 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 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 GORTNAHAHA, KILDYSART, CO CLARE. Take notice that Fergal & Amanda Casey are applying to

Anniversary

What is it?

What is it?

The Acknowledgment is the family’s thank you to all those who helped and supported them in any way, before, during and after the funeral. Here is an example of how a family notice, in this case an Acknowledgement, looks like on The Clare Echo

Here is a sample text for a Birthday Memorial which you can edit as appropriate.

Remove any brackets and replace with information relevant to your own situation.

Published to honour the memory of a loved one on the occasion of the anniversary of their death and to give details of any services which will be held in their memory.

Often includes a short verse and personal sentiment.

Anniversary notices can be published every year, to coincide with a loved one’s date of death, to remember their passing. Often a Mass or other gathering will be held to mark this occasion.

We provide a template, as well as a selection of popular verses, to guide you. You can also add up to three photos, to make the announcement all the more personal.

Here is an example of how a family notice, in this case an Anniversary notice, looks on The Clare Echo

Obituaries ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First 100 words €40 + vat

Between 100-200 words €60 200 + words on request + vat

ANNIVERSARIES Up to 80 words + Photo 80 + words on request

€20 + vat

BIRTHDAYS Up to 80 words + photo

€20 + vat

PLANNING NOTICES CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL RATHLAHEEN SOUTH, NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS, CLARE, V95 V089 I, Carmel Meehan, intend to apply to the above Planning Authority for Permission to Demolish rear shed/garage. Construct rear /side extensions. Modifications to front façade, new front porch with extensive internal renovations and all associated site works to existing dwelling house 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 of €20, within a 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.

Birthday

What is it?

Clare County Council for planning permission for the construction of a new dwelling house, private garage, entrance road to link with an existing private road, sewerage and water facilities and all necessary associated 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 Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CARROWNAKILLY, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO CLARE Take notice that Eoin O’Brien & Siobhan Ní Iarlaithe intend to apply for Planning Permission to construct a dwelling house including waste water treatment system and all ancillary site services and 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, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority, in writing, on payment of a fee of €20.00 within five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Planning Application

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PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES JULY 15

SUDOKU

Blaze

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How to play

ANSWERS

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.

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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.

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.

5

HOW TO PLAY

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Radiant

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1/1

Lucent

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Golden

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WORD SEARCH

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1 Formal headgear (3,3) 4 Go aboard (6) 8 Concerning (5) 9 Violent whirling windstorm (7) 10 Popular cheese (7) 11 Lifeless (5) 12 Uncivilised person (9) 17 Light purple colour (5) 19 Collection of books (7) 21 Marine animal (3,4) 22 Shoulder-wrap (5) 23 Main meal (6) 24 Slow down (6)

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1 Roof of straw or reeds (6) 2 Adage (7) 3 Performed (5) 5 Gin and vermouth cocktail (7) 6 Hard stone (5) 7 Intricate (6) 9 Heavy waterproof cover (9) 13 Lie back (7) 14 North American falls (7) 15 Shut (6) 16 Rode a bike (6) 18 Gain knowledge (5) 20 Moisten with hot fat (5)

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Phone 065 6820914

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QUIZ 47

THURSDAY, JULY 15 2021

The Clare Echo Quiz TULLA PIPE BAND

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What is the name of the band?

St Patricks St Davids St Muchulla’s

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What year did the band first wear uniforms?

1946 1949 1953

4

What former County board GAA chairman was also chairman of the band?

Father Hamilton Father Corry Father McNamara

5

Sean Cluinn a band member in the 1950’s won the All-Ireland ballad competition in 1956. What ballad did he sing?

The Windswept Hill of Tulla Spancelhill The Green glens of Antrim

Dorothea Lange the famous American Photographer captured a Tulla bass drummer in action in 1954?

Joe Linnane Paddy McGrath John O’Halloran Dan Moriarty a well known drummer with the band, also played with a Céili band.

The Tulla The Shamrock The Green Isle

8

Apart from the Tulla band how many other Pipe bands are in Clare?

One Two None

9

Who was the longest serving band leader?

Sean Chuinn Pat Liddy Terence Lambert

10 1952 2013 2019

What year did the band first parade at a Munster hurling final?

l John O’Halloran of Rannagh, Tulla beats a drum for St.Patricks in 1936

Picture take by the world famous Dorothea Lange

ANSWERS

6. John O’Halloran 7. The Shamrock 8. None 9. Pat Liddy 10.1952 Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

1936 St Patricks 1949 Father Corry The Windswept Hill of Tulla

Spot the Difference

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

What year was the Tulla Pipe Band formed?

1936 1939 1946

Last weeks Answers . Black Bracelet missing . GAA logo missing from jersey . Lens on phone missing . Nike logo missing on sweatshirt

. Strap from mask missing . Text under Clare logo missing from Jersey . Arrow on Exit sign rotated

Niall O’Connor of the Clare Echo

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