The Clare Echo 16/03/23

Rail delays due to illegal encampment

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AUTHORITIES have been “held to ransom” by the presence of an illegal encampment at Sixmilebridge railway station, a county councillor has claimed. Since February 2021, three Traveller families have been residing in the car park of the Sixmilebridge train station on lands that are owned by Clare County Council.

Iarnród Éireann have in recent

weeks instructed drivers to proceed at caution through Sixmilebridge due to the encampment which is causing five minute delays on services in the county.

Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) told The Clare Echo, “We can’t put up with this any longer, we’ve been held to ransom”. He added, “They are there over two years, it boils my blood that they can break the law to use it as a lever to be housed”.

He claimed that Clare County Council “have done everything in

their power to accommodate these people”.

Bridgie Casey of Ennis Traveller CDP refuted these claims. “The three families are on the housing list for several years, living without no facilities. The families do not want to be there, but they have no choice or option as they were never offered any type of accommodation from Clare County Council”.

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Millions of commuters in Milan are seeing eye-catching ads for Ireland on trams operating in the city right now – including a breath-taking image of the Cliffs of Moher. It’s all part of Tourism Ireland’s latest promotion in Italy which aims to showcase Ireland and the Wild Atlantic Way. The promotion will run on two jumbo trams operating in the city between now and April 20.

Cataract waiting list doubles

ALMOST double the amount of Clare people are awaiting treatment for cataracts since 2021, writes Páraic McMahon. New figures released by the HSE reveal that the Inpatient/ Day Case (IPDC) Waiting List for the county has almost doubled. 99 people in Clare were awaiting cataract procedures in May 2021 compared to 188 patients at the end of January 2023. 53 people were waiting up to 12 months for a proce-

dure.

Urgent investment is ophthalmology services in the MidWest is required to address the growing waiting list for cataract procedures, Clare TD Michael McNamara (IND) has said.

“A stand-alone high-volume consultant-led cataract theatre was opened by the UL Hospital Group in Nenagh Hospital in 2018, with the intention that it would facilitate patients from Clare to avail of their treatment

Clare Museum working to expand collection

lHISTORY: President Éamon de Valera’s car is currently on display at the museum

there. It is clear however, that the impact this initiative has not resulted in the desired reduction in the waiting times to access cataract procedures. In fact, waiting lists have continued to worse since the middle of 2021”.

He added, “The ongoing capacity issues at UHL and consequent cancellation of IPDC surgical procedures at Model 2 Hospitals such as Nenagh and Ennis is continuing to have

significant, negative knockon consequences for people awaiting other urgent procedures. The Government this month announced €363m for the 2023 Waiting List Action Plan, which it says will reduce hospital waiting lists by 10% in 2023. While this is welcome, it does not go near far enough in addressing lengthy cataract patient waiting lists, which I fear will only grow further without extra intervention.”

DONATIONS of artefacts are being sought by Clare Museum to expand its current collection, writes Páraic McMahon

Greater representation of the lives of the people of Co Clare for future generations to enjoy is hoped to be achieved in the call-out.

Curator John Rattigan explained that items will be collected “that exist in or can be provenanced to Co Clare. We are particularly interested in items associated with the Covid-19 pandemic, but also items relating to the lives of women and local businesses from days gone by”.

Items from more recent decades are also required. “An ongoing survey of museum

visitors has highlighted an interest in items from the 1950s to the turn of the century. This is a period many of our visitors remember and would like to tell stories about to their children or grandchildren on a visit,” he said.

Rattigan added, “Other items of interest including objects relating to childhood such as toys, games and school in times past would also be welcome, provided they are in good condition and have a story about their use that can be told with them”.

Clare Museum’s Collection Policy is designed to help the museum achieve its mission through focused collecting. It also recognises the collec-

tion as the museum’s greatest resource, underpinning exhibitions and educational activities. The museum is keen to be representative of local communities often overlooked by museums, including objects relating to the everyday lives of women, the Traveller community, immigrants and people with a disability.

The Collection Policy is available on the museum’s website for the consultation of anyone interested in donating an item.

For further information, Museum Curator John Rattigan can be contacted at 065- 6823382 or at claremuseum@clarecoco.ie

County Development Plan approved

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S County Development Plan has been endorsed by elected representatives of the local authority.

After what has been described as an “arduous process” in preparing the document, councillors were glad to adopt its proposal at a special meeting. The 2023-2029 plan consists of ten volumes underpinned by nineteen goals relating to climate change, flood risk, local, regional and national sustainable growth while balancing the growth of urban and rural areas.

The Development Plan is the principal planning strategy document for the development of the local authority area over the statutory period of the plan which is for the next six years.

The key role of the Development Plan is to set out the vision, policy, strategy and delivery mechanism for different forms of future development in order to drive better quality planning and development.

A key focus of this plan has been the identification of lands which can accommodate growth for housing but also for employment and community uses at appropriate locations across our settlements.

The development plan supports tourism within the county recognising the important role that this industry plays. The Draft Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029 was placed on public display on the 10th December, 2021. A total of 1,015 submissions were received within the statutory consultation stage.

Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling noted, “For the first time every social media has been a key player in how we deal with people”. He acknowledged the importance of Shannon Estuary and our Atlantic

coastline has also been a key consideration in this development plan making process as has the protection of our unique natural heritage, biodiversity and our blue and green infrastructure.

He said that critical to the success of any development is stakeholder engagement. “This plan has seen a huge willingness from the public, stakeholders and the members to engage in shaping the emerging plan. Schools have been involved across the county, information

events have been held across all Municipal Districts and were very well attended and for the first-time social media has been a key player in how we engage with people. Videos, on-line portals, Zoom meetings, Facebook and Instagram have all been key to including people in this process for the first time.

“To this end we have received almost 1400 submissions in the three public consultation stages of the plan. Clearly the people of Clare are interested in what this plan contains”.

Dowling acknowledged the work of the staff involved in particular the Forward Planning Team who have worked diligently, honestly and professionally at all times over the last two and a half years.

Director of Economic Development, Liam Conneally outlined that 194 submission were received during the statutory consultation period. A total of 170 submissions were received during the public consultation for proposed amendments.

Councillors criticise outside influence behind plan

OUTSIDE influence has dictated the County Development Plan, elected representatives have said with Clare’s longest serving politician declaring “it is not our plan”, writes Páraic McMahon

Approval was granted to the adoption of the Clare County Development Plan 20232029 by elected members of the local authority at a special meeting held in the Council Chambers.

A crisis has been avoided, Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) claimed. “It’s not our plan anymore, it’s the plan of the top ten including the OPR, OPW and so forth,” he commented. Counties have rolled over to the requests of the OPR, the Lissycasey man said as he voiced criticism with the manner in which legislation was passed in the Dáil when only 27 of the 160 TDs were present. He said the county’s Oireachtas members should be brought in if the OPR reject the Plan,

“We have to take a stand, we have done the best under the constraints. This is poison, they have to redeem the mistakes of the past. Civil servants are pushing our public representatives around. The planning regulator who was one time a planner in Clare County Council, it is important we meet him and it is important we realise that we’re only at halfway mark and that big fight is coming on and we should fight it out”.

Mayor of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) said the process in preparing the document was “long and complex. Many submissions broke our hearts in Ennis MD, even till this morning I was phoning back landowners who will not be able to develop lands and did not get the zoning they sought”.

Opportunities for developer or Council led

solutions to assist the 52 settlements in the county without wastewater treatment plans is to be welcomed, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) stated.

Environmental protection has resulted in some lands not being zoned for housing in Ennis. “I’m also very conscious of the environment and sometimes it can be very frustrating putting the likes of bats and other animals and foliage in front of human beings but we understand why we have to do it, at times it has been difficult,” commented Cllr Ann Norton (IND).

A differing view was issued by Cllr Pat Daly (FF), “there was winners and losers in this County Development Plan. I’m sad to say bats are depriving the development of quality housing in this town, young people are crying out for development of quality houses, I thought the issues would have been sorted”.

Housing concerns were also voiced by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), “I have a genuine concern on the future of housing in Ennis, Roche are getting out of town in Clarecastle and the remediation work is ongoing there, to attract someone decent into there and the brownfield site that will be there, we will need decent options for housing”.

“I found it an extremely frustrating process to have our vision as councillors and staff of Clare County Council that our vision for county and communities was so much curtailed by very restrictive and out of date policy. We’re on the ground and have the ability to move much faster than policy set on the blocks at national level, I found it extremely frustrating but at the end of the day I’m extremely proud of the process and the document as it stands, there will always be elements of it that frustrate me,” admitted Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF).

l Kilkerrin Battery Fort, near Labasheeda, Shannon Estuary

Encampment at train station holding authorities ‘to ransom’ claims Cllr

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A CLARE Councillor has said his ‘blood is boiling’ with the continued presence of an illegal encampment at the train station in Sixmilebridge while accusing the families of holding the local authority “to ransom” to try secure a house.

Drivers of train services have been instructed at Iarnród Éireann to proceed at caution through Sixmilebridge due to the presence of an illegal encampment.

Three Traveller families are currently living in the car park of the Sixmilebridge train station, having moved from Shannon in February 2021 where they had been on the grounds of St Senan’s RFC.

A spokesperson for Iarnród Éireann told The Clare Echo, “This is part of a series of safety measures for the safe operation of train services arising from repeated trespass at this site, associated with an adjacent encampment on Clare County Council lands.

“We have also placed platform barriers at platform ends, and Clare County Council who own the car park have placed restrictors at the entrance to the car park”.

Delays of up to five minutes ap-

proximately have been experienced for all services at Sixmilebridge as a result but on some occasions the length of time has been greater.

“While this does not affect customers’ ability to make connections in the vast majority of cases, we do hold connecting trains should it be

required. We are liaising with Clare County Council, who continue to endeavour to resolve the issue of the illegal encampment,” the spokesperson added.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) voiced his frustration with the consistent de-

lays.

“We can’t put up with this any longer, we’ve been held to ransom, Clare County Council, train users and people from Sixmilebridge, everything has been done from An Garda Síochána to try sort it out.

“They are there over two years, it boils my blood that they can break the law to use it as a lever to be housed, other people are on the housing list for years and going by the book to get a house, these people are breaking the law and it is scandalous,” the Kilmurry representative stated. He said he has been contacted by commuters from Sixmilebridge, Quin, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Broadford and O’Callaghans Mills on the issue.

According to Cllr O’Callaghan rail commuters are timing their journeys so that they don’t have to wait on the platform. “People are living in fear, it is total disregard and what we fought for to get the train station”.

He said “some local TDs took great pride in moving them on from Shannon but they have been in Sixmilebridge for two years.

“The Council are exhausted and have done everything in their power to accommodate these people, we need to come up with an alternative

and move them on as soon as possible”.

“Retired people who used to love using station, they would park up for the day, come and go and now they will not darken the platform of Sixmilebridge because of what is going on at the platform.

“There are bikes, toys, trampolines, it’s been treated like a playground, fear and intimidation is there”.

Bridgie Casey of Ennis Traveller CDP told The Clare Echo, “There are three families living there two years. The three families are on the housing list for several years, living without no facilities.

“The families do not want to be there, but they have no choice or option as they were never offered any type of accommodation from Clare County Council. The Clare County Council under the Traveller Accommodation Act 1998 and under the Traveller Accommodation programme have an obligation and duty of care to house those families but failed to do so.

“So, the real question here is, where do these families go? With the current housing crisis, we are guaranteed to see more of these scenarios occurring as families have simply nowhere to go”.

lFRUSTRATION: The illegal encampment at Sixmilebridge station

Photo by Joe Buckley

'Golden hour not pertinent to people of North & West Clare'

SHORT-TERM absences in the Kilrush Ambulance Station were not filled on 21 occasions last year, new figures have shown while a county councillor has said the ‘golden hour’ is not pertinent to persons living in West and North Clare, writes Páraic McMahon

Chief Ambulance Officer with the HSE West, JJ McGowan confirmed that the National Ambulance Service were unable to fill short-term absences in Kilrush on a total of 21 instances in 2022. He stated, “In these situations NEOC considered and/ or used tactical redeployment methods to cover the shortfall”.

Detail was sought at a sitting of the HSE Regional Forum West by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) on the NAS’ policy to ensure “adequate ambulance human resources are in place at Kilrush to cover West Clare in the case of short staffing for personal reasons”.

Cllr Murphy also asked, in the case where only one crew member is available for duty, is it operational policy to pull that staff member in to Ennis rather than fill the vacancy in Kilrush”.

McGowan explained, “Operationally, all efforts are made to cover a roster at station level by the Paramedic Supervisor: non-rostered staff are utilised in the first instance for short-notice absence cover; if this is unavailable, a request goes out for off-duty staff. Tactical redeployment is then considered if no off-duty staff are on hand. All decisions for tactical redeployment are made by the NEOC on a case-by-case basis, as they will have an overall view of the status of resources at any one time, nationally”.

Speaking at the Health Forum meeting, Cllr Murphy referred to his three

Murphy ‘gobsmacked’ with data gathering practices in hospitals

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A WEST Clare representative has admitted he is “gobsmacked” that the HSE do not have a geographic breakdown on where in the Mid-West patients are admitted to University Hospital Limerick (UHL) from.

Multiple pieces of data surrounding admissions to UHL over the past year were requested by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) at a meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum West.

UHL is, if we don’t cover the wider systematic issue I don’t think we can begin to address the problem”.

Failure to compile the data on where the patients are coming from and if they could be treated in Ennis is “staggering,” he remarked. “Extending opening hours of the local injury units might be a start but of course it’s useless without understanding the other two parts of the question, if we don’t understand how they can be treated in another pathway it’s useless”.

decades running a business as giving an understanding on the last-minute calls that come about with changing staff, “The process for filling immediate vacancies seems robust”.

Comments regarding ‘the golden hour’ made CEO of UL Hospitals Group, Colette Cowan earlier in the meeting were picked up on by the Kilkee representative. “Huge swathes of West Clare are outside of the golden hour and that is getting to the service not to mention getting into the service. When I mention the golden hour to people in West and North Clare they just laugh, it is not pertinent to them”.

Absence of many basic forms of such detail prompted UL Hospitals Chief Executive Colette Cowan to state, “I can categorically say the HSE does not hide data”.

Cllr Murphy sought a geographic breakdown of the presentations to the emergency department in UHL last year, how much of these occurred within 8pm to 8am daily and how many of the patients could have been treated in a MAU or LIU.

For the first seven months of 2022, a breakdown of the numbers attending the ED through the National Ambulance Service showed that of the 4,122 attendees, 45 were Echo priority and more than 1,800 were Delta priority leaving an approximate 2,270 as lower priority calls. Murphy also asked for information on how many of the 2,270 could have been treated in either Ennis’ MAU or LIU.

Ms Cowan said, “It is not possible to determine if a case assessed in the ED could have been treated in an MAU or Injury Unit as this information is not recorded in such a way that a report can be easily generated. This would require the manual review of each individual presentation, this is also the situation for the county based data requested”.

Absence of the requested data was frustrating, Cllr Murphy said. “At the core is understanding what the issue with overcrowding in

An IT consultant who the Kilkee representative discussed the matter with said they were “gobsmacked” the data was not available.

He added, “If UHL and the HSE want to solve the problem in the ED, this is at the most basic data gathering. IT experts are saying this isn’t anywhere not complicated. The best time to start something was 20 years ago, the second best time is today”.

Speaking in response, Ms Cowan stated, “we collect lots of data”. Over 50 per cent of the attendances at UHL are walk-ins and self-referrals, she said.

“Emergency calls may not have been seen by the physician, the paramedic or doctors so with all due respect they have to see them they can’t just send them to the local injury unit”. Risk mitigation means the “right patients” must be sent to Ennis and Nenagh, the CEO added. “If you want to find data fields you want to look at we’re happy to do that. I can categorically say HSE does not hide data,” she said.

JJ McGowan, Chief Ambulance Officer with HSE West said they cannot gather the data on a mass basis but could complete a sample over a one or two day period. “To do that on a mass basis would ensure we trawl through all patient records and we don’t have the viability to do that”.

lAmbulance

Former ShannonDoc driver jailed for eight years for sexual abuse

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has jailed a 61-year old ‘monster and predator’ for eight years and ten months for the sexual abuse of three young girls in the 1980s.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford said that former taxi driver and former Shannondoc driver, Fintan (Vinny) Ryan of Clooney, Quin had sexually abused the three young girls “for his own sexual gratification”.

Imposing the eight year-ten month prison sentence for the indecent assault on the three girls at locations in Clare between 1983 and 1989, Judge Comerford said that “huge damage was done by Mr Ryan to each of his victims”.

Judge Comerford said that Mr Ryan’s offences were “attacks on children”.

Two of the complainants, sisters-in law of Mr Ryan, Angela Patalano and Geraldine Finnegan said that they had no relationship with their own parents after first reporting Mr Ryan’s offences to Gardai in 2014.

All three complainants each waived their right to anonymity in order that Mr Ryan be named and the third complainant is Ms Patalano’s and Ms Finnegan’s cousin, Maeve Behan, now aged 47.

A married father of two grown up children, Fintan Ryan has not been named before now and has been on remand in custody since last November when a jury at Ennis Circuit Court found him guilty of 34 counts of indecent assault.

Seven of the offences concern the indecent assault of Ms Finnegan, 23 counts relate to her younger sister, Angela Patalano and the remaining four counts relate to Ms Behan.

In her victim impact statement, Angela Patalano described Mr Ryan as “a monster and a predator”.

Ms Patalano read out her victim impact statement in court and stated that “the abuse I suffered as a 12 year old child has deeply impacted by life”.

She said, “I have had no relationship with both my parents and some of my siblings since 2014 solely because of him. They stopped speaking to me after I reported the crime to the Garda in 2014.

Ms Patalano said, “My father passed away in 2018 without ever speaking to me again. This still breaks my heart. I only ever wanted to protect my nieces and keep them safe from him (Fintan Ryan).

“The hurt and pain that he has caused our whole family is unforgivable. He has completely divided our family. The emotional trauma that he has put me through has sometimes been unbearable”.

She added, “I feel immense relief since he was found guilty and taken into custody. I can now move forward with my life without all the silence and secrets. My nieces are safe and that is all I never wanted”.

In her victim impact statement, Geraldine Finnegan told the court that she has “suffered and paid a high price” for reporting Mr Ryan’s offences. She said, “I have suffered unimaginable betrayal, hurt, pain and grief”.

She said that she was “disowned by my parents after reporting to the Gardaí in 2014; unable to attend my father’s funeral; some of my siblings no longer engage with me since I reported to the Gardai; laughed at publicly on the streets of Ennis and my son never got to know his grand-parents”.

Ms Finnegan said that “finding out that my

sister was also impacted hit me like a bolt of lightning. This actually nearly broke me. I blamed myself. I thought this was all my fault. If I had spoken up all those years ago, maybe this hell would not have happened to another family member. My sister does not blame me. There is nothing I can do about the past now - this is a cross I have to carry and still carry”.

Ms Finnegan said that “the hell of abuse never goes away”. She said, “It is hell on earth”.

On her decision to report Mr Ryan’s offences, Ms Finnegan said that “other people had to be protected. This had to stop and it was time for me, the now adult, to stand up to do the right thing, protect others and also protect the young girl, me, who has suffered so much”.

In her statement, Maeve Behan said, “Secrets protect paedophiles like Fintan Ryan and he doesn’t deserve protection. He is a vile human being who intentionally harms children. Children need to be protected from him”.

Recalling the sexual abuse perpetrated on her by Mr Ryan when she was 13, Mr Behan said, “Fintan Ryan literally ruined my life and every dream that I ever had and he continues to do so. What he inflicted upon me affected every cell in my body and I will never heal”.

She said, “The little abused girl will always live with me. Fintan Ryan is the monster lurking under my bed”.

Ms Behan told the court that she first learned of Mr Ryan’s other sex abuse victims when she went to her uncle’s funeral in 2018 and saw that her cousins and the deceased man’s daughters, Angela and Geraldine weren’t there.

Ms Behan said that she went into shock af-

ter Angela explained she and Geraldine had suffered abuse at the hands of Fintan Ryan.

Ms Behan said, “I was shaking in disbelief. I couldn’t believe that he had done it to others before me”.

In his sentencing, Judge Comerford said that he was “given a sheaf of letters and testimonials on behalf of Mr Ryan”.

He said, “I’m not sure if any great weight should be placed on them if they are just handed in and the victims don’t hear the contents."

He said, "I did read them and they are really an indication that Mr Ryan has had the benefit of strong family support and has also provided some family support to other brothers and sisters and the children of brothers and sisters and has that strong family life”.

Judge Comerford remarked that “that is precisely what he deprived his victims of and took away from them”.

The court was told that Mr Ryan - who has no previous convictions - has suffered a heart attack while on remand in custody last month and required four days hospitalisation where he required stents to be inserted.

Judge Comerford said that in discussion with the Probation Service Mr Ryan “has made extremely limited admissions of wrongdoing that don’t bear any real relation to the extent of the offences that he has been convicted of”.

He said, "That is not a good sign with regard to rehabilitation and future conduct”.

Judge Comerford said that Mr Ryan “doesn’t accept the vast majority of what was found by the jury but that he doesn’t intend to appeal”.

Judge Comerford backdated the jail sentence to November.

Dowling to extend term as Council Chief

by Páraic McMahon @clareecho.ie

CHIEF Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling is to extend his contract by three years.

Appointed for a seven year term in September 2016 with the option of a three year extension, Dowling has informed the Department of

Local Government and the Public Appointments Service that he wishes to avail of that extension.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) on Monday informed elected representatives of the local authority that the Chief Executive “has notified me of his intention to extend the ten-

ure of his contract”. O’Brien added, “we are welcoming him for another three years” and his comment was followed by a round of applause from county councillors.

A native of Knockaderry in Co Limerick, Pat resides in Kilkee, his initial appointment was confirmed in June 2016 when he was an-

nounced as Tom Coughlan’s successor, the position comes with a salary of €133,072 per annum.

Prior to this, he was Deputy Chief Executive for Limerick City and County Council with responsibility for Social Development, whilst there he was assigned the task of managing the merger of the former Limerick City Council and Limerick County Council and in charting a new operating model in arriving at a unified authority for Limerick.

He joined Limerick Corporation in 1999 having previously worked in youth work, Macra na Feirme and rural development with Kildare Leader Company. The UL graduate previously completed an internship with the United Nations.

During his time with Clare County Council, Dowling was heavily involved in the success of the 2019 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open held in Lahinch, the adaptation of the Council’s management structure which included the roll-out of the first rural development directorate of any Council in Ireland, the Council being named local authority of the year on two occasions plus having a key role in multiple successful funding announcements for the county.

Also under Dowling’s watch, the County Council has voted to implement the highest charge of local property tax on a consistent basis. He has always stressed the importance of the Council maintaining a balanced budget and noted his pride

at the local authority never recording a deficit during his tenure.

Pat is a father of six and turns 61 this year. He is the youngest brother of Michael J. Dowling, the president and chief executive officer of Northwell Health.

Under provisions of the Local Government Reform Act 2014, the position of County/City Manager was replaced by that of Chief Executive. The chief executive performs the executive functions of the county or city council and has the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the local authority operates smoothly and for carrying into effect policy decisions of the elected council.

He or she supervises, co-ordinates, manages and pays the employees and officers of the council. He or she also makes contracts on behalf of the council and affixes the official seal of the council on documents. The current legislation governing chief executives is Chapter 2 of Part 14 of the Local Government Act 2001, as substituted by the Local Government Reform Act 2014.

Clare County Council has responsibility for a population of over 118,000 people, with an annual budget of €118m.

Ennis based Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) expressed his best wishes to Dowling who he said “has performed significantly well for the county, its citizens and its businesses” with Cllr Pat Daly (FF) also wishing the Chief Executive well “as he takes on another three years”.

lTHREE MORE YEARS: Pat Dowling Photo by Eamon Ward

Moroney nominated as challenger to Fianna Fáil trio as party begins election prep

by Páraic McMahon @clareecho.ie

NOMINATIONS have closed for prospective candidates within Fianna Fáil’s East Clare Comhairle Ceanntair to contest next year’s local elections.

First out of the blocks in getting the process underway ahead of the May 2024 local elections are Fianna Fáil’s East Clare branch where four candidates have received nominations and will go before the party membership.

It is expected that only three candidates will be put forward to contest the local elections for a successive election. A date and venue has not been confirmed for the convention but it is likely to be held in April. Of the four candidates, three are sitting councillors, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF), Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) and Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF).

Broadford native Matt Moroney who now resides in Killaloe has been nominated and is the main challenger to the status quo. The 40 year old suckler farmer who works in the Arrabawn Co-op in Bridgetown believes Broadford needs a voice within Clare County Council. “There’s a few issues locally around, one of them being the sewerage system, it’s been shovel ready for years but it hasn’t got any further, there are local issues that I could give a

needs a bit of concentration”.

O’Brien who is the sitting Mayor of Clare was adamant only three candidates should be selected. “I’m firmly of the view that only three should go forward, the sitting three have done very well for East Clare and have delivered well for East Clare since 2014, we’ve Active Travel projects right across the district from Flagmount to Broadford, Quin to Tulla and Scariff, the investment is a result of the hard work of the five sitting councillors. There has been significant investment, look at Inis Cealtra and the Killaloe Bridge and Crossing, we’ve managed as a team to push it and keep it at the top of the agenda, we’ve been very successful as a team for East Clare, it would be foolish for Fianna Fáil to even consider putting forward four candidates in a five seat constituency”.

An appetite for new personnel to come forward was welcomed by Cllr O’Callaghan. “It’s healthy to have people looking to run, it’s a five seater constituency we have three sitting councillors, Pat Hayes is there 20 years, I’m heading into third term and Tony’s on his third or fourth, we’re well spread geographically. It’s healthy to see there’s other people coming forward but we feel the room isn’t there, it’s not possible to win a fourth seat, we need to hold onto the three seats we have. It happened in 2019 and 2014 that four were in the selection convention”.

Electoral boundary changes saw the Killaloe MD drop from a six seat to five seat constituency from 2014 to 2019, for the first foray into politics of O’Callaghan from Kilmurry nine years ago the party ran four candidates.

of trying to represent the people of East Clare. It is very much an individual thing running for convention even though it is running for the party, it would be very disappointing not to get the nomination”. Should Moroney usurp any of the trio then the defeated candidate will have to consider their political future, Hayes maintained. “It’s part of democracy that we run conventions, it is good that we have a healthy party. I can only speak for my own behalf, you’d have to consider your political future if you were unsuccessful. I haven’t considered it, I’m not being presumptuous. It will be a challenge for Fianna Fáil to retain the councillors they have across the county, we did extremely well the last time and in the Killaloe Municipal District to get the three out of five”.

boost to”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Matt stated, “I feel there is more that could be done, there is a pocket of East Clare that hasn’t had any representative or councillor before, there has been no elected councillor in Broadford before, it is an area that

The Brendan O'Regan Restaurant is ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

Killaloe based O’Brien who was speaking to The Clare Echo from New York City where he is representing the county during the St Patrick’s Day festivities added, “The way Fianna Fáil and the Government parties are doing in the polls we would do very well to hold onto our seats, we did it in 2019 but it was a struggle. There is only room for three Fianna Fáil candidates in the Killaloe Municipal District, it would be detrimental to even contemplate putting four candidates in”.

“If there was a vote at that convention I wouldn’t have got through the convention, I didn’t know much about conventions then but I was lucky to have got through and if it have ended up through a vote I may not have got through”.

The Poet's Corner Bar is a traditional Irish pub that opens its doors onto the main town street of Ennis. Perfect for a pint, a bite to eat or traditional Irish music session.

It will be challenging for Fianna Fáil to retain their current figure of 13 councillors according to Cllr Hayes. “I’d be in favour of retaining the three,” he said of the procedure he would back in East Clare. “All I can do is work on my own record

The Clare Echo understands that a surge in membership has been experienced within the East Clare Comhairle Ceanntair from 160 to 244, a cohort of which are said to be supporters of Moroney and joined late in 2022. Before being able to vote in a selection convention, individuals must be paid up members for 13 months. The decision of party chiefs in East Clare to move swiftly in holding a convention will subsequently hinder the potential impact from the Moroney supporters.

The Town Hall Bistro

Providing a welcoming environment with great value food championing local ingredients.

The Poets Corner Bar

A traditional Irish pub that opens its doors onto the main town street of Ennis. Perfect for a pint, a bite to eat or traditional Irish music session..

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

Ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

lFARMER: Matt Moroney

Éire Óg celebrate Jack Daly victory

lÉIRE ÓG ABÚ: Éire Óg GAA club held their victory social on Saturday evening at The Temple Gate Hotel to celebrate the achievement of the club's senior footballers who claimed the Jack Daly (Clare SFC) for the second year in a row. Pictured enjoying the night are (clockwise from left): Gavin Cooney, Conaill O’hAinifin, Dean d’Auria and Ronan Lanigan; Oran Cahill and Rachel O’Dea; Gemma and Morris Fitzgerald; Rory O’Brien, Seanie Buckley, Tom Russsell, Paul Madden, Peter Cosgrove and Shane Daniels; Assumpta Hehir, Aileen Doohan, Clare Howard and Niamh Fitzpatrick; Padraic and Andrew McElwee; Club Chairman Brian Howard and Ciaran Russell Photos by John Mangan

Kilkee man jailed after years of abusing girls

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A ‘WOLF in sheep’s clothing’ who abused a 10 year old girl for the last time on his wedding day 42 years ago has received a prison term of 11 years and four months.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford imposed the prison term on Patrick Larkin (68) of Marian Estate, Kilkee in West Clare and said that his crimes “did very great damage to his four victims”.

In the case, Mr Larkin - named today for the first time by order of the court- pleaded guilty to the sexual abuse of four girls spanning five decades over four separate time periods from 1976 to 2018. Mr Larkin told Gardai in an interview, “it was the devil inside that made me do these things”.

Judge Comerford has suspended the final 18 months of the 11 year four month prison term. Mr Larkin heard Judge Comerford pass sentence from his prison via video link.

Judge Comerford said that Mr Larkin - 69 later this month - had committed his crimes across a very long period of time “and had moved from victim to victim”. He said, "He was a predator and he did harm to his victims and these completely innocent people were victimised by the deeply grave and deeply terrible crimes by Patrick Larkin”. Judge Comerford said, "This case is extreme because of the length of the offending”.

In evidence, Det Garda Conor Flaherty of the Clare Division’s Protective Services Unit said that Mr Larkin admitted to Gardai that he was attracted to nine and 10 year old girls.

Last November, at his initial sentencing hearing, Larkin voluntarily went into custody and after hearing the State case and victim impact statements, Judge Comerford told the court that he would have been remand-

ing Mr Larkin in custody anyway.

Mr Larkin was first charged with 221 counts of sexual and indecent assaults between 1976 and 2018 concerning four complainants. In the case, Mr Larkin pleaded guilty to 53 sample counts concerning the first three victims and pleaded guilty to the single count relating to the 2018 sex assault on the fourth girl. Mr Larkin’s first victim was born in 1971 and was sexually abused on “numerous occasions” from the age of five in 1976 to when she was aged 10 on Mr Larkin's wedding day in 1981. Larkin - who worked for Clare County Council for 35 years - started his catalogue of abuse at the age of 22. Mr Larkin’s final victim was born in 2008 and he pleaded guilty to one count of sexual assault in the summer of 2018 when she was aged 10.

Another victim was sexually assaulted by Larkin aged six to 11 in the years 1991 to 1996. In her victim impact statement, the woman, now aged 37, told the court that Larkin was “a wolf in sheep’s clothing looking for the right opportunity to pounce”.

The woman said that she spent time at the offender’s home as her mother was in hospital for a period. She said, “Instead of helping to nurture that six year old, he instead used me for his own disgusting sexual perversions. “Not only did he sexually abuse me from the ages of six to 10, but he also emotionally tortured me with whispers of “nobody will believe you”, “if you tell anyone you will never see your family again”, “you’ll be left all alone” and “you know I love you”.

The woman said, “It was an egregious abuse of trust, of normal decency….They say the body keeps the score. I have spent so many years pushing things down, my disgust, my fear, my sadness, my pain. Pushing deeper within myself until I could feel nothing

Lynch to be honoured

ENNIS’ Bernárd Lynch is to be honoured with a civic reception by Clare County Council, writes Páraic McMahon

Monday’s meeting of the local authority saw a recommendation passed to award Bernárd with a civic reception. It was proposed by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) and seconded by Cllr Mary Howard (FG).

Born in St Michael’s Villas, Ennis in 1947, Bernárd became the first Catholic priest in the world to have a civil partnership in 2006.

at all.”

Det Garda Flaherty said that Larkin's decades of abuse was exposed when a mother of a third victim confronted him at a funeral in Kilkee in the summer of 2019.

At the funeral, Larkin confessed to the mother of the abuse and after a number of people became aware of this locally, Larkin's first two victims came forward to make a statement to Gardaí.

Counsel, Patrick Whyms BL for Mr Larkin said that his client has been called a ‘paedophile’ on the street in his home place.

Mr Whyms said that Mr Larkin had agreed with TUSLA not to have any more contact with any children. Mr Whyms said that Mr Larkin’s own children have abandoned him while he is separated from his wife.

In sentencing, Judge Comerford said that Mr Larkin is in poor health “and is deeply depressed because of his personal circumstances”. He said, “He does say that he knows that he is wiped out - that is a reality and he says that he hopes the victims can get on with their lives and manage their lives. He knows what he did was wrong”. Judge Comerford said, "He knows that if he does return to freedom he will live out his days alone”.

Eleven years later, he married his partner Billy Desmond at The Armada Hotel in Spanish Point.

Described as a human rights champion, while working he founded the first AIDS ministry in New York City. He publicly testified in favour of New York City’s lesbian and gay rights bill that bans discrimination based on sexual orientation in jobs and public accommodations, seeing it through to passage by the New York City Council in 1986.

Lynch was honoured with the Magnus Hirschfeld Award 1988 for outstanding service to the cause of Irish LGBT civil rights. In 2017, Bernárd received a proclamation from the New York City Council honouring his more than 40 years of service to the LGBT and AIDS communities in the city. He received Presidential Distinguished Service Awards for the Irish Abroad for 2019, in the Charitable Works category.

No official date has been set for the civic reception but it is the highest honour that the Council can bestow on an individual.

lPatrick Larkin arriving at Ennis Courthouse

Photo by Liam Burke/Press 22

Potential for jobs can boost population

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TEN strategic objectives underpin the renewed Clare Rural Development Strategy.

Building social enterprises, growing multi-services centres and digihubs, co-operating with communities, managing the environment and transition to carbon neutrality, supporting age-friendly initiatives, sustaining a rural way of life, enhancing transport and wastewater infrastructure, building tourism, supporting the delivery of education, child and youth services plus population growth and meeting the needs of incoming communities are the ten areas of focus.

Clare’s Rural Development Forum will monitor and evaluate the implementation of the renewed strategy. They will be examining the percentage increase of rural Clare’s population, the percentage increase in commercial rates within each Municipal District, increased public expenditure due to the strategy, vacancy and dereliction rates, employment in rural Clare, rural transport usage, the teacher to pupil ratio in rural Clare schools, broadband speeds, fluctuations in deprivation scores and the percentage increase in rural population having access to improved wastewater treatment infrastructure.

A total of 33 sub-actions aim to ensure the ten renewed objectives are delivered.

War in Ukraine has influenced the strategy. Included as a specific objective is addressing the “immediate and medium term needs of the incoming communities

to ensure that their presence in Clare is welcomed”. A rebalance of the “self-perpetuating circle of decline and poor development balance” in rural Clare can be achieved through the population of Ukrainians, it is believed.

Low employment levels have served as a big contributor to declining population numbers in rural Clare. Potential for employment creation exists within the agriculture, food and marine sectors, renewable energy industry, tourism industry, private professional services and the emerging ‘working from home’ and social enterprise occupations can tackle this, the strategy underlines.

Seán Ó Riordáin his review stated of the growth of multi-service centres and digital hubs, “it might reasonably be argued that the county is now a leader in Ireland in this regard with the development of DigiClare the most tangible manifestation of the strategy to date. It is evident from the footfall created around the hubs, along with the capacity created to enable hybrid working and the community activities facilitated by the hubs that the county has benefitted considerably from this welcome development which was foreshadowed in the strategy”. Building on the capacity to facilitate further service provision should be considered, he said.

“Limited, if important progress has been made” when it comes to infrastructure delivery in towns and villages with hopes high for a positive outcome for Broadford’s long quest to get a wastewater treatment plant.

by Páraic McMahon @clareecho.ie

HALLENGES facing rural Clare will be met head on by the renewed Clare Rural Development Strategy 2030, officials behind the document have maintained.

On Friday, the Renewed Clare Rural Development Strategy 2030 (Realising Clare’s Rural Potential: Our Life, Our Home) was officially launched in the civic room of the Buttermarket Building in Ennis with over sixty people in attendance. The plan was adopted by Clare County Council this Monday.

Initially developed as a ten year plan for the development of rural Clare, the strategy’s implementation has been affected by “unprecedented challenges” over the past two years, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) stated. A review of its aim was timely in his view and allowed the aims to remain realistic and achieveable, he said. “There is a huge untapped potential in rural Clare for both jobs and tourism, where there are strong communities with ideas and ambitions for their futures. The aim of this Renewed Strategy is to further unlock that potential”.

Chief Executive of Clare Couny Council, Pat Dowling said the last three years has left the country “bruised but not broken”.

He recalled that in 2016, Clare launched the rural development strategy in Kilmaley and became the first Council to establish its own rural development directorate, “we set on a journey, I’m not really sure where it would take us, I pretended I did but I’m not sure, the challenge was enormous with how we would develop our rural county”.

Dowling who also chairs the Clare Rural Development Forum pointed out that the creation of the Department of Rural Development followed Clare setting the way in 2016.

The appointment of a tourism officer, roll-out of eleven digital hubs, appointment of rural community development officer in each Municipal District, designation of Ennis and Shannon Airport as an age friendly town and Airport were listed as his highlights.

He said €30-40m in funding has been secured in Clare “because of that rural focus”.

Renewed rural development strategy will meet challenges head on C

Dowling stated, “We make strong applications and we deliver. The whole area of advocacy that we carry out is very important, our responsiveness and the fact we care, we care about our rural communities and about Clare, that has been shown”.

Rural infrastructure, wastewater treatment, connectivity, transport, town centre renewal, vacancy and dereliction were earmarked by Dowling as the challenges for the future. “Our new plan is a new journey, it will meet the new challenges that lay ahead, I’m confident of that. We will continue to fight the cause for rural Clare, to do that we have to be brave, ambitious and my favourite word bold”.

Director of Rural Development, Leonard Cleary said the Council have led the way by having the first rural development directorate in the country.

Through DigiClare, he said they enabled remote working “before it became fashionable”.

On tourism, he remarked, “if we’re serious about having a different type of tourism in Clare, the model developed in the Burren GeoPark is a starting point”.

Seán Ó Riordáin and Associates together with economist Maureen O’Reilly were commissioned by the Council to carry out a mid-term review of the strategy. Addressing Friday’s launch, Seán observed, “it still remains the only such strategy in Ireland which is a disappointment to me because other local authorities could learn from the best practice in place.

“Having said that, the lack of take-up underpins the advanced position that Clare does have of what will be coming forward, Clare is playing an advanced role in rural regeneration in Ireland, there is no doubt in my head that Clare is so much better placed and organised”.

l LOOKING FORWARD: Healthy Clare Coordinator Dena Mc Grath attends the launch of the Renewed Clare Rural Development Strategy 2030

‘I fear for rural Clare’s future’ admits

RURAL Clare’s future came into focus at a special meeting of Clare County Council whereby the County Development Plan was adopted, writes Páraic McMahon.

Even though it was regarded as a bright week for the fortunes of rural Clare with the revision of a rural development strategy, elected representatives shared their con-

cerns on what the future may hold.

Taking extra time to complete the County Development Plan was “vindicated” according to Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND). “I have spoken before about the closing down of rural Clare that allows Irish Water to dictate on the survival of 52 settlements in Clare, it can

never be just about urban living, it is important that rural Clare is allowed to prosper,” the Shannon representative stated.

A decline in rural Clare is happening, Cllr Pat Burke (FG) stated. “I’m normally more positive, but there is a decline in rural Ire-

Photo by Eamon Ward

l Cllr Pat Burke Photo by Gary Collins

Councillor Pat Burke

land and rural Clare, east and west, I’m very disappointed, shame on the Government, we’re still wondering if Broadford will get the go ahead for the wastewater treatment plant, things like this are no-brainers.

“We’ve seen decline in primary school numbers and closures of post office. I fear for rural Ireland and the decline that has

taken place, young people are emigrating and rural clubs are not being able to field hurling teams.

“ On a cold winter’s day like today not many will visit Holy Island, we need to sustain our rural communities 365 days a year. The rural decline is what I fear for,” the Whitegate representative added.

SHANNON NEWS

in association with

30,000 expected for Paddy’s Day

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ST PATRICK’S Day is set to give a boost to passenger traffic at Shannon Airport.

30,000 people are expected to travel through Shannon Airport over the period, representing a 24 per cent increase on last year’s figure of 21,000.

CEO of the Shannon Airport Group Mary Considine said that it represents the start of the summer season. “Our passenger forecast over the St. Patrick’s period is a positive start to what is hoped to be a strong and busy summer season. We are seeing strong recovery due to pent-up demand for travel. The St. Patrick’s Day holiday period signifies the start of the summer season at the airport, as people arrive and depart for what is often their first trip of the year. The bank holiday also coincides with the annual

Cheltenham racing festival, so we are prepared for a busy week”. She added, “This year, we have 33 services on our Summer Schedule, and look forward to not only seeing passengers from across the country off on their travels, but also welcoming visitors from Europe, the UK, USA and beyond, into the region”. Considine concluded, “Our team here are ready to ensure all our passengers receive a warm Shannon welcome and will be doing all in their power to ensure their journey through the airport is as easy and comfortable as possible. Thanks to the introduction of the latest security screening technology at Shannon, our staff will have the pleasure of telling passengers not to remove their liquids and gels from their cabin bags. This time-saving initiative is cutting the passenger time going through security screening by half”.

Revised design published for Airport access road

A REVISED design for the N19 Shannon Airport access road improvement scheme has been unveiled, writes Páraic McMahon

In November 2021, the preferred option that was announced included a combination of active travel measures for walking and cycling, improvements to public transport, along with new and improved road infrastructure between Drumgeely roundabout and Knockbeagh Point roundabout on approach to Shannon International Airport.

Since the conclusion of the Public Display of the Preferred Option, its design has been developed following detailed consideration of landowner engagement, stakeholder feedback, environmental surveys, transport surveys and ground investigations.

An enhanced bus service will be catered for under the project along direct active travel links to Shannon Airport and the Shannon Free Zone.

Covering a stretch of 2.2km which includes five junctions, the scheme has an overall project value of €20m.

On Friday, Clare County

Council in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) and the Department of Transport published the design update.

Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling said its publication was “a major milestone” in the delivery of “a reliable, sustainable, multi modal transport solution that will enhance the connectivity to and from Shannon Airport and Shannon Free Zone. The project will unlock further economic growth potential, by improving this transport link.

“Not only will the project have a profound positive impact on the quality of life of residents along the existing transport corridor, it will also improve road safety for all road users”.

Design update drawings are now available for viewing on the project website at www.shannonaccess.ie with hard copy maps also on display at Clare County Council’s headquarters at Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis; Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon; and Shannon International Airport.

Shannon Chamber Chief Executive, Helen Downes

has said the public consultation phase is an example of how infrastructural projects impacting communities should be undertaken.

Suggestions made by Shannon Chamber in its submissions of December 2020 and December 2021 and in its response to the Environmental Impact Assessment Report have been taken on board where appropriate.

“In all our submissions, we expressed the view that the solution to the N19 road improvement must be delivered by thinking not just of the road but of the opportunity to connect and reinforce Shannon’s three key components (airport, industrial zone and town) and its linkage with and influence on the wider region and corridor”.

A rail link to Shannon which is included in the County Development Plan is acknowledged in the redesign along with the use of existing pathways and river embankments to create a combined pedestrian and cycleway close to the N19. New transport options such as eScooters will now be accommodated in the final option.

lBANK HOLIDAY: Jack Shields from Shannon Airport’s Security Screening Unit, Shannon Airport Duty Free’s Connie Corry and Magdalena Gawron from Shannon Airport’s Security Screening Unit

Process begins to rename bridge after world-champion boxer Mike McTigue

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AWORLD champion boxer from Kilnamona deserves to have a bridge in Ennis renamed after him.

Following unanimous approval by members of the Ennis Municipal District, a public consultation period is to be initiated on the renaming of Victoria Bridge on Cusack Rd to The Mike McTigue Bridge.

Born in Lickaun, Kilnamona in 1892, McTigue emigrated to the United States of America in 1912, travelling as a passenger on the British steamer Baltic. For 13 years, he fought in America and by 1923 he got a title fight for the World Light Heavyweight Championship. Civil War was ongoing in Ireland at the time of the St Patrick’s Night fight in La Scala Opera House on Prince’s Street, Dublin. He defeated the then recently crowned champion Battling Siki from Senegal on points after a whopping twenty rounds.

He would defend his title against future Hall of Famers Tommy Loughran, Young Stribling and Mickey Walker before losing the title by unanimous decision to the gold medalist wrestler-turned-boxer Paul Berlenbach in 1925. To mark the centenary of the title fight, a memorial is to be erected of Mike at Kilnamona Cross, this coming weekend. The sculptur who designed it, Michael McTigue a relative of Mike, was present in the Council Chamber for the discussion. Cllr Pat Daly (FF) proposed naming the bridge in honour of the world champion from 1923. McTigue has family descendants now residing at Cusack Rd.

Importance of honouring McTigue approaching the centenary of his world-title win was underlined by Cllr Daly. He acknowledged the renaming of the bridge was at an early stage.

“When you look at Kilnamona people, they come in and out of Ennis every day of the week, they pass the bridge. James Breen claimed he sparred with Mike McTigue, he’s that bit younger, maybe it was Michael Mc-

‘I can’t see your Halo’ - Appeal for grotto light to be replaced

A HALO light over the Virgin Mary at the Hermitage Grotto “has been causing problems for some time”, writes Páraic McMahon

In a recent proposal before the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) stated, “The halo light has not been working in quite some time” in Hermitage. She asked the local authority to replace or repair this “as soon as possible”. Her plea was seconded by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG).

Acting senior executive engineer in the Ennis MD, Paddy Tiernan noted, “The statue in Hermitage has been maintained by the local community group for several decades. Historically the group engaged their own contractors to carry out repairs and maintenance work including electrical works. Ennis MD have recently inspected the area and assessed the issue with the halo. It has become apparent that the existing electrical supply cable has been damaged and will need replacement. This will require an application to the ESB and will likely involve the requirement for a new mini pillar and metered connection. “There will be a once off cost associated with this together with ongoing electricity bills from the ESB. Ennis MD will request the Rural Development Officer to engage with the residents association to advise on a possible funding source for once off costs. Clarification and agreement will be required with regards to responsibility for payment of the ongoing ESB bills”.

Regular representations have been made by residents, Cllr Howard said. “The cable is possibly cut, I’m thinking of next May, they like to maintain or paint it, they’ve since got a

tap installed which is great. This halo has been causing us problems for some time. We’ve about a dozen of these grottos in Ennis, there’s huge pride taken in them and even a book done about them by the Clare Roots Society”. Grottos including the one in Hermitage are

“very important to the residents”. Support was also voiced by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). “St Michael’s Villas have recently formed residents association, that will help with grant funding. I don’t imagine it will cost too much”.

Tigue,” he quipped.

“When you think about it, a world boxing champion in 1923 is a fantastic achievement, delighted to support this proposal,” Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) stated. Cllr Mary Howard (FG) said, “As a resident of the area I got a number of phone calls initially, the public consultation is a very important process. It is important to recognise people’s achievements whether they are dead or alive”.

As the bridge was built in Queen Victorian’s era that is how it got its current name, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) told the meeting. “Mike McTigue was an amazing ambassador for the county, he was named in top 10 world athletes during his era. It is very appropriate to name the bridge after him”.

His party colleague, Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) though supportive of the proposal felt they were entering new territory. “I’m curious if you are un-naming a bridge, this is new to me, we’re not unveiling a new bridge, I have a fear it isn’t as cut and dried”.

Names must be related to the people of Ireland, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) argued. “It might be no harm to see the name changed, we should have something related to the Irish people, we need to wait for public consultation and make sure the people of Ennis and surrounding areas are happy with it and then bring it back to the MD. It is a start to realise that we are a Republic and have names related to the Irish people”.

Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) acknowledged the presence of Michael McTigue in the gallery.

Notes

HARMONY BRIDGE CLUB

HARMONY Bridge Club played for The Burrenside Oil Cup last Friday evening, which was sponsored by Danny and Muriel Liddy. Congratulations to popular winners Anne Troy and Eileen Crowe. Recently the club held their charity night in aid of EVA (Ennis Voices for Autism) President Marie Matthews presented the proceeds to a very appreciative Georoid Mannion.

40 YEARS OF COIS NA hABHNA ST PATRICK’S Day will see a landmark event in the cultural life of the county with celebrations to mark the 40th anniversary of the official opening of Cois na hAbhna, The Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann cultural centre on the Gort Road in Ennis.

“We’ve come a long way since Frank Custy played the first notes here with only the bare roof and no walls,” recalls Frank Whelan. “Now Cois na hAbhna serves as the regional base of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann for the Meitheal region comprising the counties of Galway, Clare, Limerick and Kerry. It is a hive of activity all year round with Set and Céilí Dancing, Concerts and an ever growing number of community events and it’s Teach Cheoil hosts regular sessions. Music, song and dance classes are also a big part of Cois na hAbhna activities with up to 500 students coming through the doors each week,” he added.

A special Celebration Concert will be held at Cois na hAbhna on the evening of Friday March 17th, St Patrick’s Day. There will be a reception from 7.00pm with the concert starting at 8.00pm. The event is free and all are welcome.

lREPAIRS: The halo light at the Hermitage Grotto has not been working for some time

lCHAMP: Michael McTigue, Mayor Clare Colleran Molloy, Nicholas Rynne, Kevin Rynne, Pat and Antoniette McCormack and Kevin Keane with a design of the sculpture

Photo by Natasha Barton

Notes

PADDY’S WEEKEND IN DOONBEG

THE Doonbeg St Patrick’s Weekend Parade will take place on Saturday the 18th of March. The theme of the parade is “Around the World in West Clare” and the Parade committee welcomes all floats to participate. The parade will be led by the Tulla Pipe Band while the Grand Marshals are locals Tommy & Mary Browne.

It is expected that a great range of Vintage Tractors and Classic Cars will also participate in the parade. There will be €1,000 worth of prize money and trophies for for the 5 categories of winning floats with no entry fee. Floats are invited to congregate at the Shanahan McNamara GAA grounds at 3pm with the Parade commending at 3.30pm. A viewing stand of dignitaries including local Tidy Town’s, Men’s Shed, Ladies Group among others.

GIBNEY WINS VOLUNTEER AWARD

KILRUSH Basketball Club volunteer Paul McGibney has been announced as the Clare winner of the 2023 Volunteers in Sport Awards.

Organised by the Federation of Irish Sport, the Volunteers in Sport Awards celebrate the contributions of the band of volunteers across the country who give their time to Irish sport and physical activity every year.

“Paul has transformed it into an organised, efficient and national award standard club. Paul has been involved with the club for just under 10 years and he is an integral part of everything that happens. Paul is constantly looking for ways to improve the club and help the players to reach their potential. Paul is PRO and often volunteers to attend national and regional events to represent Clare Area Basketball Board. Recently, Paul was the driving force behind the club applying for and successfully receiving a bronze standard club award from Basketball Ireland. Paul has created a fun and enjoyable learning environment for everyone at the club and does it all with a smile on his face,” said a Federation of Irish Sport spokesperson.

Minister of State with responsibility for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne TD will present the awards at a special ceremony next week at The Crowne Plaza Hotel in Dublin. The event will see volunteers from all 32 counties honoured for their amazing dedication to volunteering across a variety of different sports. Guests will also include key stakeholders from the sector. The overall Outstanding Achievement Award will be revealed on the day.

“The volunteers being recognised today deserve enormous credit. Their work, often unseen and undertaken without any fuss or fanfare, makes sport a reality for hundreds if not thousands of people in their communities,” the Minister said.

Kilrush can make a splash in dolphin tourism

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FUNGIE’s role in attracting visitors to Dingle can be replicated in Kilrush and the Shannon Estuary, a local councillor has affirmed.

Kilrush and the Shannon Estuary needs to tail off the high presence of dolphins in local waters to establish itself as a leading sector for marine mammals tourism, education and research.

Dolphins resident in the Shannon Estuary are bottlenose dolphins and they belong to a single group of marine mammals called cetaceans, which includes all whales, dolphins and porpoises of which there are thought to be over 80 different species. The bottlenose dolphin (Tursiops truncatus) occurs worldwide in tropical, sub-tropical and temperate waters and in Europe the most important concentrations appear to be of the west coast of Ireland, the population in the Shannon estuary is the only known resident group in Irish waters.

Each year calves are born between May and August, newborn calves are easily recognisable from their small size and neo-natal folds, which line their bodies. Bottlenose dolphins range in size from 1.9 m to 3.9 m and weigh up to 200 kg, they can travel at speeds of up to 40 km/hr and

stay underwater for up to 20 minutes, although they typically stay down for two to three minutes.

By working together with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group located in Kilrush, Clare County Council’s tourism department can market the West Clare town and the Shannon Estuary “as a dolphin centre of excellence for dolphin tourism, educational (sic) and research,” Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) maintained.

Acting Head of Tourism with the Council, Deirdre O’Shea flagged that the Clare Tourism Strategy acknowledged as a key strength “the biodiversity that is of international significance offering exceptional assets for ecotourism, in particular Ireland’s only resident bottle-nosed dolphins in the local waters”. Both Ms O’Shea and John O’Malley, the acting senior executive officer in the West Clare Municipal District are on the working group for the Fáilte Ireland Cliffs Coast Destination Experience Development Plan (DEDP) and committed to make “a concerted effort to work with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group”.

O’Malley explained that the Council was tasked by Fáilte Ireland with “examining the requirements to develop the international profile of the region for dolphin and whale watching to become recognised as the leading destination in Europe for ma-

rine life observation experiences”.

Speaking at the March meeting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Lynch remarked, “Dingle had one dolphin and it became an international destination for dolphins, we have 120 plus dolphins, we don’t want tourists chasing them down but we have something unique”.

A high presence of dolphins in the locality “is one of the key anchors we have in West Clare,” Lynch said. “Kilrush is where the lads (IWDG) are established, it is important we maximise it that companies coming in to do exploration have Kilrush and Simon Berrow as first port of call,” he added. The Kilrush representative asked the Council officials to sit down with Mr Berrow rather than just issuing correspondence.

Driving the Shannon Estuary as “a marine mammal educational space is a no brainer,” Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) commented when seconding the motion. He believed clarity was needed on plans from Foynes Port to develop near shore turbines and its impact, “there’s going to be some significant banging of heads between what they are looking for and managing the SAC”.

Murphy continued, “The Estuary in general is world class. Four humpback whales were seen off the coast of Kerry a month earlier than they have ever been seen”.

Kildysart Drama Society announce new dates

KILDYSART Drama Society have announced a series of rescheduled dates for their production of ‘Love Thy Neighbour’, writes Páraic McMahon

Originally due to take to the stage at the beginning of the March, the Kildysart Players altered their plans following the sudden death of Philomena O’Shea, the wife of long serving cast member Frankie O’Shea.

Four new dates have now been confirmed and the Kildysart Players

will perform on March 18th, March 19th, March 25th and March 26th.

Chairperson Grace Kelly pointed out that the Kildysart Players lost out on three productions during the pandemic but are itching to return to stage in the coming weeks.

“Kildysart Drama is a vital part of the community and garners huge support each year from the surrounding areas. During the pandemic, one of the younger members, Kevin Meaney produced a documentary celebrating the

groups 21st anniversary. This captivated a huge audience on the night of its virtual showing, and kept the drama spirt alive throughout the stiff lockdowns”.

In a bid to get fresh blood involved, an open night was held in September resulting in the addition of several new members, six of whom are on stage this year and multiple more involved in different areas of the production, from lighting to make-up and costume.

New members treading the

boards this year include, Elaine O’Donoghue Reidy, Flan Enright, Carmel Murrihy, Liam Traynor, Cara Farren and Rocco Murphy. Regular fan favourites, including Frankie O’Shea, Anne Breen, Caitriona Donnellan, Carmel Hogan and Dan O’Connell will also take to the stage next weekend. This year’s play ‘Love Thy Neighbour’ is a three act comedy by Jimmy Keary. The experienced Jane Casey serves as director, she has directed the majority of the societies

plays.

Big audiences are expected after the long break. Sponsors for the production include Mike Murrihy Tyres, Kildysart, Annie's Cafe, Kildysart, and Hi Maintenance, Ennis.

The performances take place at the Community Centre, Kildysart on March 18th, 19th, 25th, & 26th, 2023. Doors open at 7:45pm and curtain goes up at 8:30pm.

lFungie

Revised bid underway for UNESCO status

by Páraic McMahon

REVISIONS to try make an application for the Burren designated as a world heritage site are to be made.

Both the Burren and Inis Cealtra (Holy Island) were not included in the World Heritage Tentative List for Ireland announced by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage in July.

Six applications were received by the June 2021 deadline and the exhaustive and expert evaluation process over the following 11 months concluded that three applications should be included on the new Tentative List for Ireland with details being sent to UNESCO Paris.

Minister Darragh O’Brien (FF) explained that the expert advisory group found that the application for the Burren needed further development. “The EAG acknowledged that the Burren has the potential to fill a gap on the World Heritage List, however, it recommended that the potential OUV needed to be demonstrated by focusing on the criteria for assessment of OUV, authenticity/integrity, and the protection and management aspects of a potential World Heritage property”.

He stated, “Also, as the original application was submitted by Clare County Council, a revised applica-

tion needs to be drafted to incorporate aspects of the Galway Burren to ensure a coherent mutually balanced approach. My Department is committed to supporting Clare and Galway County Councils to develop this application further and looks forward to receiving a revised joint application to the Tentative List. The Burren is therefore not precluded from being on the Tentative List in the future”.

To progress the bid further, Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) called for a consultation plan to be held within North Clare for landowners, communities and stakeholders including the Burren IFA.

Elected representatives in the West Clare Municipal District will be briefed on the application at the end of March. Heritage Officer with Clare County Council, Congella McGuire stated that the local au-

thority has been in communication with the Department “to plan for the next steps in progressing with an application for the Burren to Ireland World Heritage Site Tentative List while specifying the work to be undertaken and the resources required. Clare County Council are working with Galway County Council in this regard and wish to further engage with all the stakeholders, communities and land-

New ladders need to take swimmers’ perspective into account at Doolin

LESSONS must be made from the design of the ladders at Clahane when completing replacements at Doolin Pier, writes Páraic McMahon

Cllr Liam Grant (GP) appealed to the West Clare Municipal District to replace the broken ladder at Doolin Pier at this month’s meeting, this was seconded by Cllr Joe Killeen (FF).

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Enda MacNamara confirmed, “the design and costs associated with replacement are currently being finalised”.

Some replacements have taken place, Cllr Grant acknowledged. “We remember the situation at Clahane where we ended up with a lad-

Notes

FIDDLE + BOW GIG

der that people weren’t happy with. Doolin overall needs to be acknowledged as a swimming location, a lot of places swam at are not safe to do so, we need to make them safer. I hope we can come to some resolution to see all facilities resolved”.

Perspective of the swimmer must be remembered in the design of the ladders, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) maintained. “The rungs on the ladders are designed for people on work boots not to slip off them, they are not very comfortable for swimmers.”.

Cllr Shane Talty (FF) urged the local authority to “try and learn from experience”. He said, “the feedback from Clahane has been negative”.

CATCH performance poet Stephen Murphy at Fiddle + Bow in Doolin on March 25th. Originally from rural Leitrim, Stephen is a bard in the truest sense of the term. His live performances have seen him previously called “the highlight” of Electric Picnic by Kitty Holland in the Irish Times, the “poet of our age” by the Irish Independent columnist Billy Keane, and “a splendid, gifted and courageous young poet” by President Michael D. Higgins,

owners including the Clare IFA”.

Speaking at the March meeting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Killeen said the designation was “a big deal”. He believed for the bid to be successful, “it needs the cooperation of everyone in Burren area if it is to be designated as a world heritage site. I still wait to see what practical steps will be taken”.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) noted, “It is a sensitive issue in a sensitive area, what the designation might achieve from a tourism point of view is one thing but how it affects landowners and how they continue their duties is another, the consultation aspect will be hugely important”.

Resources must support the intent of international recognition, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) stressed. “The value of these internationally recognised awards for our area is clear from the Wild Atlantic Way to the Burren Geo Park, they also bring with them their own challenges. We have to prove that we follow these designations and the recognition of the preciousness of our areas by allocating resources to them and making as the number one priority that local communities thrive off them and I think we’re falling down on that part. We need to do more than say we intend, we need to allocate the resources”.

lBALANCED APPROACH: The Burren lost out on the World Heritage Tentative List for Ireland in July

l SAFETY FIRST: Doolin Pier

paraic@clareecho.ie

who put Stephen “up there with those times I heard Ginsberg, and I think of that long poem, Howl”.

Feakle’s Aisling selected as Clare Rose

FEAKLE’s Aisling O’Connor has been chosen as the 2023 Clare Rose writes Páraic McMahon

In front of a large crowd at the Inn at Dromoland, Aisling was named as the Clare Rose on Sunday night. Such was the extent of the audience that the start time was delayed.

Twenty four year old Aisling was selected from a competition of 20 to become the county’s representative in Tralee, she will now undertake the ‘Rose Tour’ and then onto the international Rose of Tralee festival which takes place from August 18th to 23rd.

Recent changes to this year’s festival means all 32 chosen Roses chosen will all appear in the live selection broadcasts on RTÉ.

Aisling has been inundated with well wishes since becoming the Clare Rose. “Participating in the Clare Rose of Tralee was a uniquely wonderful experience, allowing me to make bonds with girls from across the county who each have so much talent and strength. Since being announced as the Clare representative, I have received a world of support from the entire county and beyond, but particularly and with no surprise from the locals in Feakle”.

A primary school teacher in Loreto, Crumlin, Aisling graduat-

Sixmilebridge Folk Club to host second concert of 2023 series

SIXMILEBRIDGE Folk Club

will gather for their second concert of its 2023 series next weekend, writes Páraic McMahon

Gleeson’s Bar in Sixmilebridge is to host the event on Saturday March 25th which will feature Cli Donnellan

(fiddle), Bríd O'Gorman (flute), Liam Flanagan (fiddle) and Michael Landers (guitar).

Mountshannon native Cli will play a number of tracks from her debut album ‘Beneath the Hedgerow’. The founder of the Mountshan-

non Trad Festival, she ran the event for a decade. She presented ‘The Morning Dew’ on Scariff Bay Community Radio from 2019 to 2021. She completed a PhD in Philosophy through music in 2018 at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance, University of Limerick. Cli is currently on the peer panel of the Arts Council of Ireland and is a mentor with Minding Creative Minds.

Originally from Liscannor, Bríd grew up in a house where music was an integral part of everyday life. Her father, a fiddle player, passed on his music to her and her siblings. She began playing the tin whistle at the age of five, then moved onto the timber flute at the age of seven.

Bríd recorded her debut album with Eoin O’Neill entitled ‘Bluebells are Blooming’. Now based in Newmarket-on-Fergus, she has been collaborated on several albums from other musicians.

Accomplished guitar player, Michael may be a native of Kildare but has been in

immersed in East Clare music for over three decades since moving to Tulla. He has played with many different musicians down through the years and has performed all over the country and abroad. He plays in numerous sessions, with the Old Ground session on a Sunday night his regular gig.

A member of the popular trad group, ‘North Cregg’, Liam has performed, recorded, and toured extensively with the group. The Cork man has also toured worldwide with internationally acclaimed trad band Danú. A popular player and teacher on the trad scene, he has shared the stage with many great musicians including Derek Hickey, Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh and Ciarán O Gealbháin.

Doors open at 7.30pm and the concert commences at 8pm. No advance booking is required but a small entrance fee to cover costs will apply.

ed with a Bachelor of Education from Mary Immaculate College in Limerick and prior to this studied at St Joseph’s secondary school in Tulla.

Both of Aisling’s parents Pat and Denise are sadly deceased with her mother dying in September 2021.

She is the eldest of six children, her brothers Patrick, Eoin, Liam, Ronan and Oisin are sure to be among the vocal supporters in Tralee later this year.

She has a keen interest in ballet and gymnastics, competing at a competitive level and coaching young children in the sport for many years.

Ollie Turner hosted Sunday’s event which this year saw a new collaboration with visitclare.ie. A total of €1,305 was raised from the charity raffle on the night with Sláinte an Chláir and Clare Haven chosen as the benefitting charities.

Co-ordinator Ciarán O’Connell said of this year’s winner, “Aisling is such a strong young lady who has already maneuverer many obstacles in life yet the power to drive forward and we will rally around her with the local community and the county on her journey to represent County Clare on live television this August. Aisling was chosen from some amazingly talented local ladies who all did so well and did their communities proudly”.

l BLOOMING BRILLIANT: Brid Lang, Frank Lang, Aisling O’Connor, Eoin O’Connor and Laura O’Connor

Photo by Dermot Mahony

l TRAD: (left) Cli Donnellan and (right) Liam Flanagan

Macalla an Chláir

le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

An Clár as Gaeilge Teo Togra Páirtnéireachta Forbairt Teanga Pobail do Chontae an Chláir

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraic oraibh!

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!

DIA dhaoibh a Chairde!

Is iad na cuimhní cinn atá agam ar Láil’ Pádraic in Inis Oírr ná dhuil amach sa mbuaile agus rud beag seamróige a bhailiú le cuir ar mo dheaicéad / My memories of St. Patrick’s Day on Inis Oírr are going out to the field to pick some shamrock to pin to my jacket. Agus ansin dhuil ag an Aifreann / Then to go to Mass. Tar éis an Aifrinn ansin dhuil ag an siopa agus cúpla ‘’sweet’’ a cheannacht mar go raibh cead ag na hÉireannaigh sos a thógáil ón gCarghas Láil’ Pádraic/ After Mass I’d go to the shop to buy some ‘’milseáin’’ as Irish people were allowed a break from Lent on St. Patrick’s Day. Agus abhaile ansin le breathnú ar na Yanks bochta ar an teilí agus iad préachta ag máirseáil sa ‘’bParade’’ i mBleá Cliath / Then home to watch the poor freezing Yanks on the telly as they marched in the Dublin Parade.

Sean-nós singing lessons for secondary school students starting on Thursday the 23rd of March! / Ranganna amhránaíocht ar an sean-nós do dhéagóirí ag tosaigh

BÍGÍ linn ANOCHT, an 16ú Martá ag 9pm, i dTigh Moroney Inis do Phreab-Ghaeltacht na Féile Pádraic! Beidh ceol le Eithne Ní Dhonaile, John Weir, agus Geraldine McNamara. Agus aoi an-speisialta as Conamara, Amhránaí na Bliana TG4 2022, SARAH GHRIALLAIS!

Join us TONIGHT for the St. Patrick’s Pop-up Gaeltacht in Moroney’s, Ennis at 9pm. Music from Eithne Ní Dhonaile, John Weir, and

Imeachtaí/Events:

A Ukrainian view goes on display in Kilkee

Ukrainian artist Yeni has put together an exhibition based on her view of Ireland. Yeni states “it is a huge pleasure to enjoy participating in art exhibitions here in Ireland” and she invites everyone to come and see her exhibition in Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery in Kilkee. Yeni’s works are in the offices of Ukrainian politicians, collections of Taiwanese entrepreneurs and local NCKU professors, private homes of art lovers, restaurants and some Irish families. This free exhibition runs until 7th April, 2023, and everyone is welcome.

Thought for the week: Loving mother

Spreading the word of positivity

speak out and up for mothers everywhere. We are inspired by no less than Our Blessed Mother Mary.

déardaoin an 23ú márta!

Cuirigí scéala chugainn má bhíonn suim agaibh freastal ar ranganna sean-nóis i gCois na hAbhna le Domhnall Ó Braonáin as Conamara! / Contact us if you are interested in these sean-nós singing classes in Cois na hAbhna with Oireachtas Comórtas na bhFear winner 2022, singer Domhnall Ó Braonáin from Conamara!

Geraldine McNamara. Very special guest all the way from Conamara, TG4 Singer of the Year 2022, SARAH GHRIALLAIS!

Please contact us at / Déan teagmháil linn: Fón: 065-6864474, e-mail/r-phost: anclarasgaeilge@ gmail.com

Lean ar na meáin-shóisialta muid ag @ClárAsGaeilge, Twitter, Facebook agus Instagram. Go dtí an tseachtain seo chugainn, bígí ag caint i nGaeilge le chéile!

• Scéalaíocht do pháistí / Story time i nGaeilge le Ceri, Déardaoin, 16ú Márta, Leabharlann De Valera, Inis, 11.00 – 11.30am, Saor in aisce / Free of charge

• Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM

• Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, i gCill Iníne Baoith, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

• Rith le Ruairí, chuile Dé Máirt ag 7.30pm, ag Local Motion, Inis

• Caint agus Comhrá, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé

Céadaoin ag 11am in Insomnia (Tesco), oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, Inis, 11am-12pm

• Scéalta agus Rannta le Chéile, chuile Dé Céadaoin i Leabharlann

THE occasion of Mother’s Day which is taking place this Sunday coming is extraordinary for all of us. It’s a time to give our love to the most precious creation of God - our Mom! Mother’s Day is a time to tell them we love them and appreciate them even if it’s just by phone or text or email. No matter how, please do it. Each year we pause to think about our mothers and those who have shaped our lives.

REFLECTING

In reflecting on Mothers Day, we acknowledge and celebrate mothers and mothering. I make that distinction because I know that many people – aunts, step parents, close family friends, dads – also at times and in some cases fulfill the chief mothering role in families. We think about how children and mothers who have been forcibly separated through government policy, war, or natural disaster are feeling. We think about how women and children affected by domestic violence are feeling. But hopefully we do more than think. We pray, we

In the Magnificat, Our Mother Mary Queen of Peace imagines a world that reflects the face of God’s love and compassion, where all are fed and every hurt is removed, and where a strong light is thrown on the face of human degradation and suffering. This is a different image of Mary Our Mother from the often romanticised view of her as forever patient and suffering. It is a cry for justice for all Mothers everywhere in our world. God himself needed a Mother: how much more so do we!

Jesus himself gave her to us, from the cross: “Behold your mother!” (Jn 19:27). He said this to the beloved disciple and to every disciple. Our Lady is not an optional accessory: she has to be welcomed into our life. She is the Queen of Peace, who triumphs over evil and leads us along paths of goodness, who restores unity to her children, who teaches us tenderness, mercy, love and compassion. Mary, take us by the hand. Clinging to you, we will pass safely through the straits of history. Lead us by the hand to rediscover the bonds that unite us. Gather us beneath your mantle, in the tender-

ness of true love, where the human family is reborn. Let us together pray these words to Our Lady: “We fly to thy protection, O Holy Mother of God.”

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As a final thought, even if we have great worries all around us at present make your Mother feel the most special woman in the world by showing your care, love and affection, especially during these our most worrying times.

Most of all let your Mother know how much you love her not just for Mothers Day but for all time. Spend as much time as you can loving and caring for the people who truly love you. Enjoy each moment with them before it’s too late. There is nothing more important than family, especially during this time of . uncertainty and anxiety!!!

Make your mother and the mother of your children feel the most special woman in the world by showing your care, love and affection.

Most of all let your mother know how much you love her, for life is short and time is running out.

Most of us have been blessed by a mother or someone like a mother in our lives. Mother’s Day is a time to pause, remember, give thanks to God, and share our

gratitude with those who have shaped us. And, let them know you love them and thank God for them. A very Happy Mother’s Day to all our Mother’s both living here on earth and those who, like Jesus, have been lifted up from the earth, forever to be with us in our hearts. For all of them - mothers by blood, mothers by heart—a blessing on this Mother’s Day ...Blessing our Mothers, Who are our first sanctuary. Who fashion a space of blessing with their own being: with the belly, the bone and the blood or, if not with these, then with the durable heart that offers itself to break and grow wide, to gather itself around another as refuge, as home. Who lean into the wonder and terror of loving what they can hold but cannot contain. Who remain in some part of themselves always awake, a corner of consciousness keeping perpetual vigil.

Who knows that the story is what endures, is what binds us, is what runs deeper even than blood and so they spin them in celebration of what abides and benediction on what remains: a simple gladness that latches onto us and graces us on our way. We ask you to bless them with your own special love. We ask this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

l Domhnall Ó Braonáin

GREEN CLARE

North Clare becoming a hotspot of sustainable energy communities

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NORTH Clare is “only at the beginning” of its attempts to make the area enriched by sustainable communities while 525 cars in Doolin and Lisdoonvarna will have to go electric over the next decade to half private vehicle emissions.

Energy master plans for Doolin and Lisdoonvarna were launched this month with the vision of driving the energy transition in both areas to create low energy and low carbon communities while also investigating potential community renewable energy projects.

An approximate 70 people attended the launch at the Pavillion in Lisdoonvarna with representatives from communities in Ruan, Kilfenora, Ballyvaughan, Tubber and Boston also present as they continue to formulate their own similar plans.

As part of the preparation of the master plans, an energy audit was conducted by the Tipperary Energy Agency in Doolin and Lisdoonvarna which found that 3,087 tonnes of CO2 are emitted in Doolin annually which is the equivalent of driving a car around the equator 307 times or 1068 tonnes of waste recycled instead of going to landfill.

In Lisdoonvarna, the 3,497 tonnes of CO2 emissions is the equivalent of the use of 1.3 million litres of petrol or 8,096 barrels of oil. “The more energy used, the more CO2 emitted,” explained Shane Egan of the Tipperary Energy Agency.

From the period 2001-2010 was when both Doolin (64) and Lisdoonvarna (54) saw the highest amount of construction of houses in their localities. Houses with a BER of B2, emit approximately two tonnes of CO2 per year, through electricity & heating whereas houses with a BER of G, emit approximately 10 tonnes of CO2 per year.

Doolin has three per cent BER B and better, which is below the na-

tional average of 13%. Doolin has an average BER of D1. Lisdoonvarna has five per cent BER B and better. Lisdoonvarna has an average BER of D2.

The average house in Doolin, with a BER of D2, emits approximately six tonnes of CO2 per year and in Lisdoonvarna the average house with the same rating has an approximate emission figure of 6.7 tonnes which is the equivalent of driving from Lisdoonvarna to Croke Park and back 52 times.

Seventy-four per cent of homes in Doolin are heated by oil and the figure is 65 percent in Lisdoonvarna. Turf, gas and coal are the next most common forms. The average

house to run in Doolin costs €4,175 and the sum is €3,572 in Lisdoonvarna. Moving away from fossil fuels is “the opportunity for both communities” to reduce their carbon emissions,” Egan stated. The introduction of carbon taxes will be on a sliding scale, he added.

Nationally a 50 per cent reduction in residential emissions has been targeted within the next 10 years. He explained that both areas will have to retrofit 190 homes each over the next decade to meet this target, eight shallow retrofits per year in Doolin and 11 deep retrofits while the comparing figures are 11 and 15 for Lisdoonvarna.

Following previous energy audits in Lisdoonvarna, the local hall had cost savings of 74 per cent, a reduction in its emissions of 87 per cent and energy savings of 83 per cent. The childcare centre recorded cost savings of 16 per cent, energy savings of 11 per cent and a 14 per cent reduction in emissions.

Of the 892 tonnes of CO2 emitted from transport annually in Doolin, 89 percent are from private cars with an estimated fuel cost of €1.1m. Private cars account for 85 per cent of the transport CO2 emissions in Lisdoonvarna where the total figure is 818 tonnes, at a cost of €0.985m.

To half the reductions from private vehicle emissions in Doolin, 281 cars (81 per cent) should be replaced with EVs while the recommendation for Lisdoonvarna is 244 cars (81 per cent).

Speaking at the launch, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) outlined that the process of the energy master plans began three years ago. “We want to get all of North Clare behind this, it is brilliant to be at this stage, tonight is a joint launch between Doolin and Lisdoonvarna, this is the end of the beginning as far we’re concerned”.

“We need to push back on what’s impossible, do what is possible,” Garrihy stated.

Community energy mentor with the CLDC, Lorraine Power stated, “there’s funding there, it is up to communities to find it. For years I used to be talking about waste management, now it’s energy management”. She said 36 sustainable energy communities are now registered in Co Clare. “It really is a hotspot of SECs in North Clare. The true work going on is at community level”.

Susan Richardson of Sustainable Energy Authority Of Ireland (SEAI) maintained it was “a really amazing project” to get the energy masterplans over the line.

lLisdoonvarna

Open goal for offshore investment off Clare despite chill factor for external investors

CLARE is standing in front of an open goal but is kicking the ball towards the corner flag when it comes to securing investment for offshore energy, writes Páraic McMahon

Visual amenity must be protected off the Clare coast argued Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) as he called on Clare County Council to prepare “a robust submission” to the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government moving the development area as outlined in the Offshore Renewable Energy Development Plan (OREDP) further offshore. OREDP II is Ireland’s new national strategy for the development of offshore renewable energy.

There has been “a significant level of assessment” undertaken to inform the identification of the broad areas of interest, Director of Economic Development with the Council, Liam Conneally stat-

ed. The Mid-West broad area has been identified off the West Clare coastline. Council chiefs are to discuss the draft strategy with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communication this month, the Director confirmed. Following this, a cross-directorate submission will be prepared. Presently the near coast area is defined as being within nine miles of Clare County Council’s legislation, anything beyond that is a planning matter for An Bord Pleanála.

Speaking at Monday’s Council meeting, Cllr Murphy commented, “The area of interest identified for offshore wind projects starts approximately 3km off the west coast of Clare, probably our most valuable tourism asset. The associated turbines are approximately the height of the Eiffel tower, and if developed this close

to the shore will be extremely overbearing. The likelihood of challenges from local communities is very high with consequential delays in delivery and knock on impact on delivering against our 2030 target”. He added, “The chill factor for external investors to get involved with these projects is already evident, both Simply Blue and ESB have lost significant investors in the past due to the pace of progress by the Government, and will be further exacerbated by the limitations of this area of interest, and likely risk the entire floating offshore wind development off this county”.

Murphy remarked, “We are standing in front of an open goal and deliberately kicking the ball at the corner flag. This council must make the strongest case possible to ensure that is avoided”.

lOffshore wind farm

Quilty’s Wild Irish Seaweed wins top County Enterprise Award

A SEAWEED business from Quilty is this year’s winner of the Clare Final of the National Enterprise Awards for 2023, Local Enterprise Office Clare has announced.

Wild Irish Seaweeds took the top prize of €3,000 and will now represent Local Enterprise Office Clare the 23rd National Enterprise Awards at the Round Room in Dublin on the 1st June.

This business produces seaweed products for the following industries: Food Ingredients, Cosmetic, Nutraceuticals, Retail, Food Service, Horticulture, and Agriculture. They have ranges of seaweed products for all these sectors exporting Organic Seaweed to 18 different countries.

Other winners at the Clare Final of the National Enterprise Awards held at the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis included: McConnell Woollen Mills, Killaloe – Best Export Award; Palm Free Irish Soap, Tuamgraney – One to Watch Award; INDIGO, Shannon – Best Productivity Award; IFF Plastics, Cree –Best Sustainability/ Green Award.

Evan Talty of Wild Irish Seaweeds will now be competing against 30 other finalists from every local authority area for a share of the €35,000 winners prize fund as national judging gets underway in May. Categories this year include ‘Best Export Business,’ ‘Best StartUp’ and ‘Innovation,’ along with “One to Watch” and a “Sustainability / Green” award in addition to eight regional awards.

Previous national winners from

Clare include Callan Technology, ABC Nutritional, McConnell Woollen Mills and Torpeys.

The Clare final took place as part of a very successful Local Enterprise Week programme of events. There were over 300 physical events took place across the country, run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices from March 6th to 10th.

Speaking during Local Enterprise Week Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Clare said: “The National Enterprise Awards is about recognising and celebrating the achievements of small businesses. It also reflects the contribution these businesses make to their local communities by providing employment and the role they play in the economic vibrancy of our County. It was great to see such diversity and success among all our finalists and my congratulations to the winners. I wish our overall winner, Wild Irish Seaweed every success in the national finals later this year.”

Other local businesses were also shortlisted this year, and they were Wix & Wax Ireland, Welcome to the New World, Inagh Farmhouse Cheese, Great Visitor Experiences, Tensile Testing Services, Evolve Technologies, Alba Innovations, Hurst Botanicals & Clare Jam Co.

Among the special guests at the ceremony were Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr. Tony O’Brien.

He commented: “I wish to congratulate Wild Irish Seaweeds on winning the Clare Final and I wish them well as they go on to repre-

sent LEO Clare at the National Enterprise Awards in Dublin on 1st June. I would like to commend all the businesses who were category winners and all those who were shortlisted in the Clare Final. The range of businesses participating is a reflection of the vibrant business sector in County Clare and I would like to acknowledge the role of LEO Clare for the support that they pro-

vide.”

Members of the judging panel included Gillian Slattery of Enterprise Ireland, Damien Barrow of Curtin O’Friel & Co Accountants and Michelle Guthrie of LEO Clare.

Other high-profile events that took place during the week included the launch event, Navigating Recruitment & Retention for Employers, Supporting Small Business

in the Digital World & Women in Business Workshop - Pitching to Win as well as Enterprise Clinics in Shannon, Kilrush and Scariff.

Local Enterprise Week is organised every year by the Local Enterprise Offices and supported by Enterprise Ireland, local authorities and the Government of Ireland with over 300 events taking place nationwide this year.

N19 SHANNON AIRPORT ACCESS ROAD IMPROVEMENT SCHEME DESIGN UPDATE

Clare County Council is progressing the development of the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport. Fehily Timoney and Clandillon Civil Consulting Joint Venture are the appointed Technical Advisors to advance the project through the planning and design stages. The project is being managed by the Mid West National Road Design Office on behalf of Clare County Council. The Preferred Option that was announced in November 2021 included a combination of active travel measures for walking and cycling, improvements to public transport, along with new and improved road infrastructure between Drumgeely roundabout and Knockbeagh Point roundabout on approach to Shannon International Airport.

Since the conclusion of the Public Display of the Preferred Option, the design team have been progressing the design and environmental evaluation of the Preferred Option. The design of the Preferred Option has been developed following detailed consideration of landowner engagement, stakeholder feedback, environmental surveys, transport surveys and ground investigations.

Design Update drawings are now available for viewing on the project website www.shannonaccess.ie, with hardcopy maps on display at Clare County Council’s Head Office in Ennis, Shannon Municipal District Office, and Shannon International Airport.

For further information visit www.shannonaccess.ie or contact the project team at info@shannonaccess.ie or telephone 065 6866147.

l LOCAL ENTERPRISE WEEK: L-R Cllr Tony O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Eileen and Gerard Talty, Wild Irish Seaweed and Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise, Clare LEO Photo by Arthur Ellis

Clare students all set for Croke Park LEO Entrepreneurship Final

LOCAL Enterprise Office Clare have announced that teenage entrepreneurs from St. Joseph’s School, Spanish Point and CBS Ennistymon will represent Clare at this year’s Student Enterprise Programme National Finals on Friday 5th May. The Finals make a return to Croke Park for the first time since 2019.

The students in the junior and intermediate categories all took part in the Clare final on 8th March 2023 which was held at the West County Hotel, Ennis. The senior competition is rescheduled to 22nd March.

The enterprise education initiative, funded by the Government of Ireland through Enterprise Ireland and delivered by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices in local authorities throughout the country, saw over 25,000 students from just under 500 secondary schools across the country take part in 2021 / 2022. The programme supports students to create, design and market their own business, all with the hope of reaching the National Finals.

In the Junior Category, the enterprise representing Clare at the National Finals is West Clare Cookbook from St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Spanish Point.

In the Intermediate Category, Leabhar Grianghraf from CBS Ennistymon will be representing the county at the Finals.

Special guests at the Clare Final included Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr. Tony O’Brien.

Speaking at the county final,

Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise said “Once again, our student enterprise programme has highlighted the entrepreneurial talent

Clare has among our young population. It is pleasing to see the encouragement and support these young entrepreneurs get from their

Gilligan heads up digital and design at The Clare Echo

by Elaine Tubridy

THE Clare Echo is pleased to announce the promotion of Shane Gilligan (inset) to the position of Head of Digital Strategy & Design. Shane, a native of Kilrush, has served as graphic designer with The Clare Echo since 2018 and is now an integral leader on the team.

Shane has helped The Clare Echo grow into Clare’s most read media outlet and in his new role, will be responsible for overseeing the newspaper's digital strategy, including the design and maintenance of its website, and developing graphics for digital marketing cam paigns. He will also be responsible for the newspaper's print and online design, ensuring that The Clare Echo continues to provide readers with high-quality and visually engaging content.

"We are thrilled to promote Shane

to this new role," said Stuart Holly, editor of The Clare Echo. "He has been an outstanding member of our team since he joined us in 2018, and we have no doubt that he will excel in his new role as Head of Digital & Design. We look forward to seeing his creative vision and expertise applied to our digital and print products."

Gilligan is known for his innovative design style and his ability to create visually striking graphics that capture the attention of readers.

"I'm honoured to be promoted to this new position and excited to take on the challenges that come with it," said Gilligan. "I look forward to working with the team at The Clare Echo to continue to deliver high-quality, engaging content to our readers both online and in print."

The promotion of Shane Gilligan to Head of Digital & Design is a testament to The Clare Echo's commitment to providing its readers with the best possible content across all platforms.

teachers and their parents. Hopefully many will consider starting their own business in the future and creating new jobs in our towns and villages.”

Cllr Tony O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, commented on the valuable contribution of teachers in this programme. Cllr O’Brien said: “Projects like this require great work and effort and it is a credit to all the teachers and schools who have taken part and were here over the two days of the County Final.”

The local students will be competing against hundreds of other student entrepreneurs from all over Ireland at the Student Enterprise Programme National Finals, taking place at Croke Park in Dublin on the 5th May.

Since the Student Enterprise Programme began in 2003, over 350,000 students have taken part, learning key skills on how to create a business idea, start a business and grow a business. The Student Enterprise Programme also has new range of online resources for 2022 / 2023 at www.StudentEnterprise.ie, which will feature regular blogs and houses a full range of Student Enterprise resources for students and teachers.

Visit www.studententerprise.ie and search #studententerprise on social media for more info.

l ENTERPRISE EDUCATION: Students from CBS Ennistymon and St Joseph’s Spanish Point celebrate their wins with Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Cllr Tony O’Brien and Clare LEO Head of Enterprise Padraic McElwee

Photo by Arthur Ellis

news@clareecho.ie

Killaloe’s caring Karol wins gold at Excellence Awards

Win flights to Paris as a Clare Echo subscriber

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

THE Clare Echo is delighted to announce that we are giving away two pairs of tickets from Shannon Airport to Paris Orly, thanks to our friends at The Shannon Airport Group.

One year after launching The Clare Echo’s subscriber model online, we want to acknowledge the support of our readers. This week, to coincide with the launch of our ‘annual’ subscriber option, we are raffling off two pairs of return tickets to Paris.

l Paris

KILLALOE Community College teacher

Karol Torpey has been announced as a first place winner in the inaugural National ETB Excellence Awards at Croke Park, writes Elaine Tubridy

Karol was awarded first place in the Excellence in Care category. The award recognised Karol’s work in caring for the emotional, spiritual and social needs of the entire school community including establishing a strong connection via social media. Karol was also determined to keep the school spirit going during the Covid-19

pandemic and it was her message of hope and positivity that saw her winning an Excellence award.

Speaking about the award, school principal Eukaria O’Grady said: “We are delighted for Karol. This is a great testament to the work she does and the care she provides daily for our students.

“Our school environment has always endeavoured to be one where students thrive in a caring and supporting atmosphere, and it is truly lovely to have that care recognised at a national level.”

To be in with a chance of winning, all you have to do is become an annual subscriber to The Clare Echo. And right now, we are offering a 37 per cent discount.

It’s quick and easy to subscribe, and the good news for our existing subscribers is they will be automatically entered into this draw for a chance to win this excellent

prize.*

Editor of The Clare Echo, Stuart Holly said, “To our loyal readers and subscribers, thank you. Your support has been instrumental in making our premium model a great success over the last year.

“So, join us for another year of quality local journalism, and you knows, you

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

• TRAFFIC LITTER WARDEN COUNTYWIDE PANEL, 2023

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 30th March 2023

• CANTEEN ATTENDANT SPORADIC COVER PANEL, 2023

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Monday 3rd April 2023

Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846250, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie

Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

could be jetting off to Paris on us!”

*Monthly subscribers who have an active account and subscribed prior to Thursday, March 16, will be entered into this draw. New subscribers who wish to enter must choose the ‘annual’ option when subscribing to be entered into this draw.

l WELL DESERVED: Limerick & Clare ETB, CE, George O’Callaghan, awards host and news presenter, Ray Kennedy, award winner Karol Torpey from Killaloe Community College with principal Eukaria O’Grady and Limerick and Clare ETB Ethos co-ordinator Christine Noonan

Proudest of days for St Joseph's

ALL-IRELAND PPS SENIOR D FOOTBALL FINAL:

St Joseph's Spanish Point 0-15

Ard Scoil Chiaráin Naofa Clarw 1-07

Venue: Tuam Stadium

by Ivan Smyth news@clareecho.ie

SCHOOL DAYS are often described as the best of your life and for the footballers of St Joseph’s Spanish Point, they will never forget a memorable campaign which has seen them win county, provincial and national honours.

Principal of the secondary school, Paul Reidy also serves as manager of the senior football side. He was proud as punch to see his players and students deliver on the biggest of days. “I’m kind of speechless after that. Hugely proud and I suppose emotional in other ways. Obviously, you don’t win All Irelands every day and it was a fantastic performance. Probably after the first 10 minutes it was as good as we have played all year. Just calm, composed. I think the first 10 minutes we were very nervous.

“We wanted this very badly. We had trained so hard all year. We were probably a bit all over the place. We got back into it and it was level at half time. It really opened up in the second half and we kicked great scores so I’m hugely satisfied with the whole thing. Leaving the All Ireland aside. When you work so hard for something, I’m talking about the players, we were just facilitating that, it’s hugely satisfying to finally get over the line”.

It was a shaky opening 10 minutes from the Clare school but they didn’t need to get overly excited on the sideline as they remained steadfast in their belief that

there was plenty of leadership on the field. “I suppose we are shouting from the sideline but there’s great leaders in there. Josh and Seán, the two captains, they settled things down. Evan Cahill came into it really well. We have loads of leaders on the field. We are just there to facilitate it. There are loads of great footballers. We mightn’t be full of superstars but we are a real team. We work really, really hard together”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Paul pointed to how pressing Clara’s kickouts was key to the success. “We were determined to perform and we are just really happy with the performance after [the first 10 minutes] because it was full of all the things we would have worked on all year. The kickout strategy and stuff like that.

"I think that was actually the turning point in the game. We really turned the screw on their kickouts in the second half. They couldn’t get it off and we had worked really hard on that. Once we turned the screw on the kickouts we got a couple of quick points and once we got ahead we drove for home really”.

Big futures lay ahead on the football field for many of the players, Reidy predicted. “People mightn’t realise but they are going to be heard of yet. We have some really talented footballers there. The likes of Conor (Kearney) is unknown really in the county but he’s as good a defender as there is in the county at his age. I’d expect to see him

the Clare 20s in the next year or two. Gary Donnellan is an unbelievable footballer. All of them, what they have given to the school in terms of their behaviour, their attitude towards school. I’m in the privileged position to be principal.

"I’ve never had an angry or cross word with them. Maybe on the field when we are trying to get the best out of them but they are exemplary lads on and off the field.

"Their performance is testament to that. They are willing to work hard in whatever they do; school, football, whatever it is. I’m just really proud”.

Kilmihil na-

tive Reidy continued, “Myself, Sean and Paul have talked about it and we have enjoyed the year more than the players. When you get a group of players who are willing to do everything you ask, it really challenges you as a coach. I have thoroughly enjoyed this and it’s a memory that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

"There’s a bond that’s been created between this group and myself, Paul and Sean. It can never be taken away from them now. They will always remember the day in Tuam that they won an All-Ireland for Spanish Point."

STORY OF THE GAME

ST JOSEPH’S SPANISH POINT

Frees for: 14 (7/7)

Wides: 7 (5/2)

Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 0-10

Top scorer: Cathal Talty and Euan Lineen (0-04 each)

Bookings: Cillian Keavey (1), Darragh Townsend (38), Conor Kearney (50), Cian Coughlan (52), Josh Moloney (55), Shay Gleeson (58)

Own kickouts won: 8 from 13 (62%)

REFEREE: S Kennedy

ARD SCOIL CHIARÁIN NAOFA CLARA:

Frees for: 23 (9/14)

Wides: 3 (3/0)

Spread of scorers: Three Scores from play: 0-03

Top scorer: Ben Kearney (1-05)

Bookings: Conor Doyle (15), Barry Egan (50)

Own kickouts won: 10 from 22 (45%)

l Joint captains Josh Moloney and Sean Neylon with the Rice Cup

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

l Principal and manager of St Joseph’s Point Spanish Point Paul Reidy with his children; (right) Selector Sean O’Brien embraces his Miltown club mate Sean Neylon

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Moloney plays part as Spanish Point Class of 23 leave on high

by Ivan Smyth news@clareecho.ie

FINISHING HIS SCHOOL

days as an All-Ireland winning joint captain will see Josh Moloney leave St Joseph’s Spanish Point on a high.

Alongside Sean Neylon, Josh raised aloft the Rice Cup as the West Clare school claimed the All-Ireland Senior D PPS title. The duo will sit the Leaving Certificate in June but end their playing days for the school in the most memorable way imaginable. “It’s brilliant. Your last game ever with Spanish Point is an All Ireland final and a win so you couldn’t have finished off the year any better,” he said.

Moloney added, “It’s brilliant. I’m over the moon with it. You couldn’t be any happier to get it. It’s what you aim for at the start of the year and it’s brilliant to be here now”.

Throughout the tie, Spanish Point never panicked but Josh flagged that had been a trait of theirs all year. “We have been in that situation a couple of times before. We played Ennistymon early in the Clare Championship and we were three or four points down. We came back and won it by a point. Then again

in the county final against Ennistymon again we were three points down, we came back and won it by a point. Even in the All Ireland semi final we were four points down. I think we are very cool, we are very calm. We don’t panic. We know we can grind out the win in a tough game”.

They were content to be

on level terms by half-time, “We knew we had a few mistakes made in the first half and they had to be fixed but as a whole we were generally happy. Against the wind and a defensive team we were going in level at half time and with the wind we felt we could go out and capitalise on it and we did”.

At key moments, the

Kilmurry Ibrickane player was in the right spot. He blocked a free from Ben Kennedy on the goal-line with 56 minutes played and again caught a dropping lobbed free from Kennedy moments later around the danger area. “I don’t know was I lucky or what but I got on the ball at key moments and you just have to be cool and calm and get out with it so that’s what happened”.

Defensively the West Clare school were beyond their years in the second half. “We got our stuff right from the first half and defended brilliantly. We learned from the first half and everyone worked hard. The forwards put pressure on and the backs defended brilliantly. I know they got the penalty but there was nothing we could do about that. We kicked three points in a row early on and we were winning their kickouts straight after half time so I was surprised by it but we drove on then very well and we kicked some great points to build up that bit of a lead”.

Bringing an attack-focused mindset to their backline was a big plus, he felt. “It’s a back’s ball in bad conditions like this so it suited the backs. It

helped us then when the ball wasn’t coming in right. We were able to attack it and we came out with an awful lot and we created a mountain of attacks of it so it was a big boost for us to stop that good quality ball coming in”.

On countless occasions, he showed his ability to surge forward with the ball and that was testament to their efforts in training, Josh said. “It’s just hard work on the training ground. It’s just when you are playing football all your life and training hard it helps you build that up and you needed it today. With the weather the way it was, we had to really work hard and support each other so it’s just the work we have put in in training that helped us there”.

Celebrations will be enjoyed, he said. “We can just sit back and enjoy it for a couple of days. After this week now we will have to get back in to it and go hard again for the Leaving Cert. It’s just brilliant. Everyone on the team is delighted. It’s brilliant for Clare football to say a Clare team won an All Ireland final so it’s absolutely brilliant. Clare are coming along. Last year the U20s won the League”.

Memories for the rest of their lives

by Ivan Smyth news@clareecho.ie

GIVEN the amount of effort put in by St Joseph’s Spanish Point’s senior footballers, winning a national title was “the absolute minimum” that the players deserved.

That was the views of victorious selector Paul Dillon in the immediate aftermath of Saturday’s five point All-Ireland PPS Senior D final win against Ard Scoil Chiaráin Naofa Clara.

He told The Clare Echo, “It’s amazing. In the build up to the game we had said a lot about the work we had put in but to be honest with you it's the absolute minimum this bunch of players deserve so we are absolutely delighted. We knew it was going to be a tough game. A very tough start for us there but I knew when we got them in for half time that we could then start well in the second half which we did”.

This level of work served as a foundation for their storming second half display, Paul noted. “The work rate is something we have emphasised all year. We just wanted them to run in waves at them [Clara]. We knew we had the fitness. We knew we had the

Do or die for Clare in Derry

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

A SIEGE mentality must be produced by Clare’s footballers as they fight to keep their Division 2 status.

Colm Collins’ side make the long journey to Derry this weekend in the penultimate round of games, successive defeats to Meath, Kildare, Dublin and Cork have left the Banner staring down relegation.

Former Clare forward, Ger Keane acknowledged, “Clare are now most definitely in a battle for survival in Division 2 alongside Kildare, Meath and Limerick. Over the last number of years Clare have been the masters of staying up and have good experience of battling against the odds”.

Clare will need to throw everything at Derry to try get a result and keep matters in their own hands rather than relying completely on other results. In last year’s All-Ireland quarter-final, Rory Gallagher’s side had a 5-13 2-08 win over Clare in Croke Park.

work done so it’s just brilliant. We just trusted that they would do that so it’s just great to see that come to the fore”.

Limiting the concession of frees was key to curbing the Clara threat according to the Doonbeg senior footballer. “It comes down to their attitude. Their attitude since we started with them, from day one has been just excellent. We knew if we could limit the frees that we would get over the line and thankfully we did”.

Experience gained both on the field and off it prior to the game will be of massive benefit for their footballing careers, Paul noted. “Even to go through this week and to go through the build-up that there was to the game. To experience that as a player can only stand to them especially the way they played for the final 50 minutes or so of that game.

“They looked like they belonged out there. I’ve no doubt that the majority of that team are going to have bigger days ahead so it’s great that they have experienced it. They have gotten through the game. They have won the game so it will stand to them. They have memories there for the rest of their lives”.

Kilkee native Keane writing in his column exclusive to subscribers of The Clare Echo outlined, “Clare will be working on creating a siege mentality over the next few weeks with the end of the league and the start of the championship coming quickly down the tracks.

"Derry were extremely impressive in the second half in their victory against Dublin at the weekend but they looked quite average up until half time”.

He added, “Clare will try and rewrite the script and they will relish the opportunity to test Derry’s credentials.

"The two weeks break will give them a chance to re-group and analyse their recent performances with a view to implementing a few possible tactical changes. Clare will need to bring their normal energy and fight to the Oakleafers and to concentrate on what is happening in front of them and not to worry about any other results or events outside of their control.

"That is what they have done in Division 2 for the past six years and that is what they will do again for the foreseeable future”.

l Damien Comber bursting out of defence in the All-Ireland final victory over Ard Scoil Chiaráin Naofa Clara

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Josh Moloney tackles Myles Handy

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Lohan takes positives in defeat to Tribesmen

NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION 1A, RD4

Clare 0-22 Galway 1-24

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Páraic McMahon & Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE: Frees for: 11 (7/4)

Wides: 12 (7/5)

Spread of scorers: 10

Scores from play: 0-16

Top scorer: Aidan McCarthy (0-07 6f)

Bookings: N/A

Own puckouts won: 27 from 40 (68%)

REFEREE: Colm Lyons (Cork)

GALWAY Frees for: 8 (2/6)

Wides: 15 (6/9)

Spread of scorers: 10

Scores from play: 1-19

Top scorer: Evan Niland (009 4f 1’65)

Bookings: Conor Cooney (34).

Own puckouts won: 24 from 34 (71%)

MANAGER COMMENT “

“We got a good start and they got to grips with it a bit and they kind of dominated the second quarter and got back into the game before half time. They were a good bit stronger in the second half. In games like this against good opponents, you try and make hay when you are on top and then try and hang in there when the opposition team is on top. They got on top of us a bit but they are good quality players and good opponents and they were a little bit stronger than us.

“It’s important to win matches and you are trying to win every day you go out.

Hayes in fitness race for Munster

CLARE defender, Rory Hayes is a major injury doubt for the county’s opening round of the Munster SHC, writes

Páraic McMahon

Wolfe Tones man Hayes was not part of the Clare panel which lost out by five points to Galway on Sunday.

Manager Brian Lohan confirmed he “has a broken bone in his wrist and will be out five or six weeks”.

Rory has been twice nominated for an All Star award at corner back since becoming a regular in the county senior hurling team since getting his first start in the Munster SHC in 2020. He has been part of the senior panel since 2018, after getting called up to the squad by then managers Donal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor.

We were hoping to put in a better performance than we did today but we were up against a good opponent and we have to take that into account.

"We are disappointed not to get the result but there are some good prospects. We saw a good few guys today but we just weren’t strong enough to deal with Galway in the second half. That’s the name of the game. You try and see as many players as you can but you also try and win as many matches as you can. We saw a good few guys today but we just weren’t strong enough to deal with them in the second half”.

MANAGER COMMENT “

Henry Shefflin, Galway:

"We were slow to start and Clare were moving very well with a slight breeze. We grinded our way back into the game and we put ourselves in a good platform for the second half.

“It was a good perfor-

mance. Training has gone fairly well in the last few weeks and we were hoping to see that today.

“We got game time into a lot of players. It was important that we didn’t pick up any more injuries as we had picked up a few

in the last few weeks.

“Conor Cooney played very well and he linked up the play very well. He also played very well the last day and was one of our better players on that occasion, took the frees very well. Evan (Niland) came in and he took the frees and it wasn’t a bother on Conor. He just went about his business which

is a great sign. They moved the ball very well today and threw it to the man in the better position. Yes, we had some bad wides. There were aspects of the game which were pleasing but there is plenty to work on. Coming down here to Ennis is always a difficult challenge."

PLAYER WATCH

MINUTES PLAYED: 70

Possessions: 5 (2/3)

Passes: 2 (1/1)

Hand Pass: 1 (1/0)

Hurley Pass (long): 1 (0/1)

Shots: 1

Scores: 0-01

Wides: 0

Dropped Short: 0

Tackles: 4 (2/2)

Blocks: 1 (1/0)

Hooks: 0

Turnovers for: 2 (2/0)

Turnovers against: 2 (0/2)

With Clare’s first round of the provincial championship versus Tipperary scheduled for April 23 in Cusack Park, Hayes will be battling against time to recover from the injury giving Feakle’s Adam Hogan a chance to earn a championship debut while Cian Nolan of Smith O’Brien's is also an option but the Killaloe man has only seen 20 minutes of action in this year’s league.

Mark Rodgers is another player out of action. The Scariff forward was ruled out through injury for Sunday’s game against Galway but is expected to be back in contention prior to the Tipperary game.

It’s not as optimistic for Shane Meehan. The Banner forward has been struggling with a pelvic injury all year and has not been available for selection for any contest thus far in 2023.

Subsequently, the Mary Immaculate College student is unlikely to feature in the championship until the latter end of the provincial series, at best.

Shane O’Donnell’s return to training provides a boost given the other injury setbacks. Lohan confirmed that O’Donnell has resumed collective training with the county squad.

Elsewhere, Darragh Lohan returned to the matchday panel for the first occasion in this year’s League. The Wolfe Tones man had been centre back during the Munster Senior Hurling League but sustained a hamstring injury which ruled him out of the first three rounds of the National Hurling League and UL’s knockout games in the Fitzgibbon Cup.

Hogan captains U20s against fancied Tipp

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THE race for what is predicted to be one of the most competitive U20 Munster hurling championships for some time begins next Wednesday when Clare will face Tipperary.

Current All-Ireland minor champions Tipperary will have a big number of survivors from the under 20 team which lost to champions Limerick in last season’s championship. In the opening round last year Clare went down by the minimum margin to eventual winners Limerick while they suffered a two-point loss to Cork, another of the fancied sides for this year’s campaign. Those two losses end-

ed Clare’s involvement in 2022.

The format is different this year with the five competing counties in Munster (Kerry are not involved) playing in a round robin format at the end of which the top team will go to the final with the next two playing a semi-final.

Whitegate’s Terence Fahy is in his second season as Clare manager and his backroom team includes Tomas Kelly, from Inagh/Kilnamona, Brendan Bugler from Whitegate and Rob Mulcahy who is the squad’s S&C coach.

Feakle’s Adam Hogan, one of a number of players who are also part of the senior county panel, will captain the U20 side. Others who are part of both the U20 and senior panels

are Oran Cahill (Éire Óg), John Conneally (Clooney/Quin), Patrick Crotty (Scariff), Keith Smyth and Ian MacNamara (both Killanena) and Oisin O’Donnell (Crusheen) and all are expected to be starting on Wednesday.

There has been a change in relation to allowing players who are part of both the U20 and senior county panels to play at this grade. In recent seasons players who made an appearance with their senior team in the championship could not play at under 20 level. This year any player who is part of both panels cannot play two games in seven days.

Players likely to miss out on Wednesday’s first round due to injury are Oisin Clune from

Feakle, Gearoid Sheedy (Ogonnelloe), Rory O’Connell (Clarecastle) and John Cahill (Clooney/Quin). Players promoted from last year’s minor team include Fionnan Treacy (Éire Óg), Jack O’Neill (Clooney/Quin), Diarmuid Stritch (Clonlara) and James Organ (Corofin) .

The squad has gone through a stiff training programme in recent weeks during which time they played challenge games against Offaly, Galway, Wexford and a number of college sides. Clare’s schedule is; at home to Tipperary at Sixmilebridge on Wednesday next at 7pm; away to Limerick on March 29; away to Waterford on April 12 and at home to Cork on April 19.

Brian Lohan, Clare:

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Ian Galvin is kept at bay by Padraic Mannion and TJ Brennan

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

CIAN GALVIN wing back

Three Clare Minors hoping to follow in hurling footsteps of their fathers

THE sons of three members of Clare’s All-Ireland winning teams from 1995 and 1997 are following in their father’s footsteps and are set to wear the saffron and blue for the county minor hurlers.

Clare take on Tipperary in the Munster minor championship opening game on Tuesday evening in O’Garney Park, Sixmilebridge at 7pm.

Matthew O’Halloran (Sixmilebridge), Mark O’Connor (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield) and Fred Hegarty (Inagh/Kilnamona) are set to emulate their fathers, Michael, Jamesie and Fergal and, hopefully, steer Clare to victory over the Premier outfit, the defending All-Ireland champions.

The counties met in the Munster final last year when a penalty shootout was required to separate the sides, Tipperary winning on a 3-0 scoreline. They went on to break Offaly hearts in the All-Ireland final when they struck for an injury time goal to claim the title.

Former Clare senior captain Brian O’Connell from Shannon is the Clare manager again this season and his backroom team includes Donal Moloney (Scariff), Damian O’Halloran (Inagh/Kilnamona), Fintan Leamy (Clooney/Quin) Liam O’Reilly (Banner) Gerard Hickey (Broadford); Hugh O’Neill from Cork on S&C and Thomas Barry from Inagh/ Kilnamona on stats.

The team manager is happy with this year’s format which is the same as the under 20 hurling. The top team at the end of the round

robin series will go through to the final with the second and third placed teams meeting in a semi-final.

“For the most part we have a new bunch this year which is the nature of things at this

Economic benefit predicted as Clare chosen to host LGFA Congress

CLARE will host the Annual Congress of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association next year.

At the annual congress held in Trim, Co Meath it was announced that Clare LGFA were successful in their pitch to host the 2024 event which will be held on March 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

Details on the venue in Clare have yet to be finalised. The county last hosted the LGFA Congress in 2015 when the Inn at Dromoland in Newmarket-on-Fergus was the location chosen.

Chairman of Clare LGFA, Seán Lenihan was confident economic and tourism benefits would accrue as a result of the county hosting Congress.

He stated, “With over 170 Delegates from Ireland, UK, mainland Europe, America, Canada, Australia, Asia, many of whom will bring an accompanied person with them, it is really great news in terms of economic and tourism benefits for the County.

"An added bonus is that 2024 is the 50th Anniversary of the foundation of the LGFA so there should be added promotion and cover-

from Inagh/Kilnamona, Matthew O’Halloran, Fred Hegarty, Padraic O’Donovan from Doora/Barefield, Michael Collins from Clonlara and Jamie Moylan from Cratloe.

Last year’s goalkeeper Sheedy is expected to fill that position again this year while Ronan Keane (Killanena), Eoin Carey (Cratloe) and Mark O’Connor (Doora/Barefield) are chasing defensive roles.

Elsewhere Matthew O’Halloran, Michael Collins, Fred Hegarty, Mark O’Brien (Cratloe) and Jack Mescall (Inagh-Kilnamona) are in the running for places in the line up.

A decision on the fitness of James Hegarty will be made nearer match time on Tuesday but apart from that, BOC and his backroom team have a fully fit panel from which to select the team to take on Tipperary.

In preparation for this campaign, Clare have had challenge games with Dublin and Offaly while they completed preparations last week with a match against Kilkenny.

“It’s a busy schedule but the lads are really looking forward to the format. Because of the closeness of the fixtures, all members of the panel will be needed as injuriess are likely to be picked up,” the Wolfe Tones clubman said.

age group”, explained the manager. Eight members of last year’s panel are still available and they are Eoin Gunning from Broadford who is this year’s captain, Mark Sheedy from Sixmilebridge, James Hegarty

Clare’s Munster schedule is as follows; at home to Tipperary on Tuesday next, March 21 in Sixmilebridge at 7p.m.; away to Limerick on March 28, away to Waterford on April 11 and at home to Cork on April 18.

BALLYEA BLAST BLUES, CRUSHEEN CLAIM WIN

l Matthew O’Halloran will hope to follow in the footsteps of his father Michael by bringing national silverware back to the Banner County

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Gearoid ‘Gudgy’ O’Connell captained Ballyea as they began their 2023 campaign with a comprehensive win

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

age as a result which can only be a good thing for the sport of Ladies Football and indeed the good work we are trying to do in Clare”.

l The Inn At Dromoland hosted the event in 2015, the last time Congress was held in County Clare

Tuamgraney at business end of handball season

FROM the cauldron of courts in Kingscourt to the more local walls of Kilkishen, the proud reputation of the East Clare club has been upheld over the past fortnight.

Caitríona Millane claimed All-Ireland intermediate title in superb style. Caitríona’s road to victory included a terrific joust with clubmate Leah Minogue in their All-Ireland quarterfinal.

At Kinfane in Kilkenny on Sunday Caitríona took her A-game to the final with Aoife Holden, winning 21-10 and 21-5.

At the other end of the scale, U-12 doubles duo Anna Madden and Sinead Doyle won their final over Cork oppo-

Captains drive-in at Woodstock

by Seamus Hayes sports reporter

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB

A combination of snow and heavy rain resulted in the cancellation of many golf competitions across the county on Saturday last when most courses remained closed.

Despite this, however, Woodstock hosted their captains’ drive in, which had been cancelled a week earlier as a mark of respect to former lady captain Patricia Graham whose death had taken place.

The inclement weather on Saturday last did not deter a big crowd of members from gathering for the drive in ceremony for men’s captain Aidan Mulcahy. senior captain John Donovan, junior captain Harry Mc Enery, lady captain Niamh O’Regan who were joined by club president Oliver Mc Namara. The drive in was followed by a social evening at Hotel Woodstock.

The Spring league continues this week when the format will be modified fourball betterball (Preferred Drive). There will be a club singles this Friday, Saturday and Sunday

LAHINCH GOLF CLUB:

The annual Play in Pink Day organised by the ladies section at Lahinch Golf Club will take place on Monday April 3. This fundraiser is in aid of Breast Cancer Research at University Hospital Galway. This will be an invitation event with at least one member on each team. The format will be a team of four.

sition comprehensively but their win in the penultimate hurdle over Tipperary opposition will go down as one of the clashes of the year.

Having yielded to a thumping 15-1 defeat in their first game and reeling at 13-1 in their second, the young duo somehow courageously clawed their way back to a 15-14 victory to send the game to an epic tiebreak that they won by just two points, 15-13.

The victory was one of the high points of a weekend of provincial finals started brilliantly by Daniel Madden in the U12 boys competition with an impressive victory over Cork opposition.

At the same Broad-

ford, Limerick venue, U16 Doubles partners Jack Madden and Paul Rodgers claimed their provincial title over Cork opposition in two straight games, while Sarah Wiley put up a brilliant performance in her U-17 singles title before being pipped at the post in a tiebreaker. Hats were also off the night before to Saoirse O’Brien for her brave performance as she lost out narrowly in her U13 singles final.

In Co Cavan Diarmaid Nash’s attempt to put back-to-back national senior titles together was not to be as Westmeath’s Robbie McCarthy turned the tables to win back the title.

CLARE HANDBALL

SECOND LEVEL SCHOOLS

HANDBALL RESULTS

Venue: Tuamgraney

Referee: James Nash

GIRLS:

First year singles Siofra

McNulty, Scariff Com College

First year doubles

Mary-Kate McCarty&Caitlin

McGrath, St. Joseph’s, Tulla

Muireann O’Brien&Elka

Crotty, Scariff Community College

Minor Singles (U16)

Claire Minogue, Scariff

Community College

Isabelle McInerney, St. Flannan’s, Ennis

Minor Doubles

Ella Casey&Tara Lucas, St.

Flannan’s, Ennis

Senior Girls Singles (U19)

Aine Lenihan, St. Joseph’s, Tulla

Senior Doubles

Sarah Wiley&Rachel Danagher, Scariff Community College

BOYS:

First years Singles

Eoin Shanahan, St. Joseph’s

Tulla

Jack Cahill, St. Flannan’s

First years Doubles

Lochlann Collins&Donnach

Lenihan, St. Joseph’s Tulla

In past years many members have supported this very worthy cause by sponsoring a Tee Box for €50. This year again, the organisers are appealing for similar support. Donations may be handed into the Golf Club Office or made over the phone: 0657081003. Raffle Tickets will be available on the "I donate" platform as in previous years.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB:

Michael O’Reilly won the men’s singles stableford competition (yellow tees) at Ennis on Sunday with 44 points from Eamonn Corry who had a similar

score, Noel Whelan was third with 42 points followed by Frank Owens with 40 points. Leo Herbert won the gross with 35 points.

Last week’s ladies 14 hole stableford winner at Ennis was Anne Kelly (20) with 31 points. She had two to spare over Helen Hartnett (27) with Sinead O'Sullivan (51) in third spot and she also scored 29 points. Monica Finnerty (23) was fourth with 27 points. On the 9 hole competition Anne Fealy (24) was the winner with 19 points from Mary Leahy (16) who had a similar score. Patricia O’Reilly (25) was third with 18 points.

The winners of the senior ladies outing last week were Frances O'Reilly, Carmel Verling and Eileen Holly with 43.3 from Mary McMahon, Mary Glynn and Helen Hartnett with 45.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Dominic Enright (9) was the winner of the weekend singles at Kilrush with 32 points. He had two to spare over Des Murphy (16) with third spot filled by Matthew Dillon (19) who also had 30 points

GORT GOLF CLUB:

Paul Brennan (3) was the winner of category 1 in the men’s singles at Gort at the weekend with 42 points. Category 2 was won by Pat Curtis (13) with 40 points. In category 3 the winner was Michael O’Dell (20) with 45 points while P.J. Whelan (25) won category 4 with 45 points.

SIXMILEBRIDGE GOLF SOCIETY:

The first outing for Sixmilebridge golf society members for 2023 took place to Dundrum golf club on Saturday.The winner was Barry Deasy from Diarmuid Bucke with Trevor Whyte in third spot followed by Dermot McNamara. The nines were won by Eric Purcell and Stephen Mulready.

HAVEN ARMS:

Members of the Haven Arms society in Kilrush played for their President’s (Gerry Malone) prize at Doonbeg Links last week.

Brian Scanlan was the winner with 39 points from Denis Nagle with 35 and Ross Cullinan with 34. The society captain for 2023 is Jeremiah Brennan.

Cillian Cummims& Colm

Whelan, St. Flannan’s Ennis

Minor (U15) second level schools handball singles Paul Rodgers, Scariff

Community College

Donnacha Mahon St. Flannan’s Ennis

Doubles

Cathal Noonan and Sean Considine

Danny Ryan and Luke Kavanagh

Intermediate (U17) singles. Mikey Hassett, St. J Tulla

Donnacha Crotty, Scariff Community College

Intermediate (U17) doubles. Matthew Crotty& Jack Madden, Scariff Community College

Cathal Culloo& James Brooks, St. Joseph’s Tulla

Senior (U19) singles

Mici Sheedy, Scariff Community College

Eanna Culloo, St. J, Tulla

CLUB HANDBALL RESULTS

She's Ace Ladies Championship 2023 Ladies Intermediate Singles Final. Caitriona Millane (Clare) dft. Aoife Holden(Kilkenny) 21:10,21:05.

Munster Junior B Quarter-Final

Doubles: Clare A (Kevin O

Callaghan/Glenn Murray) defeated Cork B (Bosco Hurley/Keelan Murphy)

Munster U18 Semi-Final Doubles: Clare (David Considine/ Mici Sheedy) defeated Cork (Cian Dunning/Nathan Sheehan) 21-16; 21-17

Munster Master B QuarterFinal Doubles: Clare (Shane/ Walsh/Alan Cummins) defeated Limerick (John Shannahan/Michael Reidy)

21-4; 21-4

All-Ireland Silver Masters B Semi-final : Cavan (Gary Ryan) defeated Clare (Seamus Ryan) 18-21; 21-6, 11-05

Clare Division 2 League Final

Tuamgraney (Paddy Fitzgerald, Shane Walsh, Jamie Howard, Cathal McKenna, Seamus Ryan) dft Tulla (Paul Lynch, Danny O'Halloran, Evan Corbett, Brian Fahy, Tony Leyden)

Clare Division 4 League Final

Tulla (Donal Madden, Brian Lynch, Raymond Steward, James Littleton, Tadgh Donnellan) defeated Toonagh (Philip Lucas, Michael Casey, Noel Barry, Declan Vaughan)

Munster Doubles

March 14 @ Galbally

S/F O35 B Clare B (Danny O'Halloran/Paul Lynch) v Waterford B (Gary McCarthy/ Philp Butler)

Wednesday March 15th @

Kilcoleman

S/F O35B Clare A (Shane

Hayes/Darren O'Neill) v

Tipperary A (David O'Brien/ Niall Quinn)

Final Ladies Junior B @ Tulla

Chloe Philpoo/Orla O'Brien v Leah Minogue/Amber Nolan

Semi-Final Junior B Mens @ Galbally

Clare A (Kevin O'Callaghan/ Glenn Murray) v Tipperary

B (Patrick Delaney/Philip Delaney)

Sunday March 19 @ Broad-

ford

Final U21 Clare (Sean Coughlan/Cathal McKenna) v Cork (Eoghan Daly/Gearoid Healy)

S/F Junior doubles Clare (Ciaran Malone/Paddy Fitzgerald v Cork (Conor Walsh/ Shane Flynn)

S/F Ladies Intermediate Final @ Tulla

Clare (Catriona Millane) v Tipperary (Roisin Cahill)

Tuesday March 21st @ Galbally

S/F Masters B Clare (Alan Cummins/Shane Walsh) v Cork (Hugh Carolan/Patrick Buckley)

Ladies Junior Singles Final @ Clooney

Leah Minogue v Chloe

Philpott

Wednesday March 22 @ Glenville

Final Silver Masters B Clare (Mike Baker/Seamus Ryan) v Cork (Noel Manly/ Philip O'Carroll)

l Captain Aidan Mulcahy, Senior Captain John O‘Donovan, Junior Captain Harry McEnery, Lady Captain Niamh O’Regan and President Oliver McNamara

l Sinead Doyle (left) with her U-12 doubles partner Anna Madden (right) and U-12 boys singles Daniel Madden (centre), who won their provincial titles recently representing Tuamgraney Handball Club.

Luke Kavanagh / Danny Ryan and Cathal Noonan / Sean Considine, Minor Doubles Finalist

Coláiste compete in cross country finals

COLÁISTE Muire’s cross country team took home the overall second placed team medal at the All-Ireland Schools finals.

Heading into the All-Ireland championships, the Ennis school had claimed the best overall school award in Munster.

On Saturday, the junior team finished in fifth position overall with Faye Mannion the reigning Junior Munster champion first home in seventh spot. Faye has been selected for the Home Country Schools International which

takes place in Liverpool at the end of the month.

Faye was joined on the junior team by Emily Singleton, Aoife Keane, Aoibheann Finneran and Sarah Crowe.

Louise O’Mahony finished in second place for the senior race as the Coláiste recorded a second place overall team medal. Also representing the school, county and province in the senior race were Niamh Lennon, Nicole Keane, Aimée Barrett and Michelle Healy.

AVENUE ELIMINATE NEWMARKET CELTIC FROM CLARE CUP

Madden resigns as Clare soccer's PRO

JIM MADDEN has resigned as public relations officer (PRO) of the Clare District Soccer League (CDSL), writes Páraic McMahon

The Clare Echo has learned that the Shannon man, a native of Tipperary, tendered his resignation last Thursday in a letter issued to the Executive of the CDSL.

A former Chairman of the CDSL, the Shannon Olympic man is understood to have made the decision in light of disciplinary sanctions issued following the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup tie between Newmarket Celtic A and Avenue Utd B.

Madden confirmed to The Clare Echo on Friday afternoon that he has stepped down as PRO. “I have served on the CDSL for 20-odd years and I just wasn’t enjoying myself in the role anymore,” he said. “I have given a lot of my life to soccer,” Jim added.

CDSL Chairman, Jason Ryan is understood

Newmarket expected to appeal match bans

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

OFFICIALS in Clare soccer circles are keeping tight-lipped on the suspensions issued to Newmarket Celtic manager Paddy Purcell and striker Darragh Leahy.

The Clare Echo understands that three game bans were issued to Leahy and Purcell following Newmarket’s second round win over Avenue Utd B in the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup.

Their absence was felt as Celtic exited the Cup on Sunday in a 3-1 defeat to Avenue Utd A played at Roslevan.

These bans only apply to domestic games meaning Leahy and Purcell are entitled to be involved in Sunday’s Munster Junior Cup quarter-final tie away to Ferrybank FC of Waterford.

Secretary of the Clare District Soccer League (CDSL), Denis Collins said “no decisions” have been made by the Committee when contacted by The Clare Echo

A spokesperson for Newmarket Celtic stated in response to The Clare Echo, “we do not wish to discuss this matter”. Club officials are set to meet the CDSL on Monday in a bid to get the suspensions reduced.

Meanwhile, two periods of ten minutes will be played this weekend as Lifford FC and Bridge Celtic finish off their clash in the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup. The tie between the sides was abandoned two weeks ago when the sides were level 2-2. The Ennis club are also understood to be unhappy with suspensions handed out following this game.

to have made contact with Madden days after his departure.

He had been an ever-present part of the CDSL Committee up until June 2020 when he was defeated in a vote at the AGM by Manus Celtic’s Derek Dormer, he was also unsuccessful in retaining his role as FAI Junior Council Delegate with Donie Garrihy winning the vote by a significant majority.

Jim returned as PRO in 2021 when a host of new officers joined the CDSL Committee with former registrar Jason Ryan taking on the role of Chairman. Madden was elected unopposed for that AGM and the 2022 AGM.

During his time involved in Clare soccer, Jim was one of the key figures involved in the development of the County Grounds which have since been renamed Frank Healy Park. He was Chairman of the CDSL when Clare won the Oscar Traynor title for the first time.

Mikey Dinan celebrates

Pic: Natasha Barton / CDSL

HERE

Clarke in Irish squad

ENNIS’ Lyndsey Clarke has been named on the Irish U18 rugby squad for the upcoming Women’s Six Nations festival in England.

A transition year student at Coláiste Muire, Lyndsey is a member of Ennis RFC with whom she won an U14 Munster League medal with in 2020, scoring a try along with Victoria

Golden tickets handed out for Kirby memorial

by MICHAEL MAHER

Burns as they defeated Shannon 10-5 in the final.

In September while representing Munster, she scored a hat-trick of tries as the province recorded a 47-5 bonus point win over Ulster in the PwC IRFU Under-18 Girls Interprovincial Championship.

2023

Starts Saturday 25th March

Be part of the action & support your local GAA Club!

Runs every Saturday night until Semi-Finals 15th April

FINAL: FRIDAY 21ST APRIL

Learn more & book your night out, including our fantastic March Madness offer on www.LimerickGreyhoundStadium.ie

#Kirby2023

SECOND Round Heats of the €4000 to the winner Galway Greyhound Stadium A3 525 yards stake took centre stage on Saturday nights card at the track while six golden tickets were handed out in Limerick for the for the upcoming Con & Annie Kirby Memorial.

In the opening heat in Galway, the Thomas Keane of Kilmihil owned Glynnscross Liz stamped herself as a leading contender for overall honours as she routed her rivals by upwards of six and a half lengths in 28.97.

Headed from traps by Bay City Oscar in the centre of the track, the daughter of Droopys Sydney and Glynnscrosstyler gave her rival a broadside at the opening bend and quickly set sail for home down the back.

Keane had earlier visited the winners enclosure after race two where the trap five runner Chiquitita was very smartly into her stride and racing towards the opening bend she led her rivals by over two lengths with Rosshill News and Glynnscross Phil in closest pursuit. Rounding the bend the Keane owned Glynnscross Phil ran right round the outside of his rivals to join issue on the crown of the home turn with Chiquitita. Up the straight the pair had a ding dong battle with Glynnscross Phil (Droopys Sydney-Glynnscrosstyler) just gaining the day by a neck at the line in 19.61.

There was a thrilling finish to the A4 graded third contest as the Declan and Gerard Lillis of Cooraclare-owned Burnpark Crash, trained by Declan McDonagh of Liscannor, got up in the final strides to deny the pace setting Knockdrum Ripper by a neck in 29.29.

The opening contest of the night was an A5 graded affair and racing towards the opening bend Menmal Princess showed pace in the centre to lead her rivals by over two lengths rounding the opening two bends. Turning to run along the back straight Menmal Princess led the way to Brickhill Jane who had railed well to turn in second spot with the remainder all involved in crowding. Approaching the penultimate corner, the Kilmihil native John Collins and Mark Patterson-owned Brickhill One moved through on the leaders inner before taking command approaching the home bend. From this point the daughter of Skywalker Logan and Cudkevinbewrong drew clear to score by nearly six lengths in 29.85.

Last Friday night’s Galway card was an all graded 10-race programme with the concluding A3 graded 525 yards contest the top graded event on a card.

The sixth contest was a non-winner of their last four A3 contests and having found trouble in a couple of recent runs the Feakle

Five Syndicate owned Mounvoor Lad made no mistake as he swept his rivals aside with consummate ease down the back to score by eight and a half lengths form Blue Puma in 29.18.

The S2 garden eighth contest developed into a match from a very early stage as the fast starting Burnpark Ronaldo came away well and racing towards the opening bend he led Lissatouk Dave by over a length with Taurus Maisie in third place. Rounding the crown of the home bend Burnpark Ronaldo ran a little wide and this gave Lissatouk Dave, who cut to the rail turning for home, his chance. On the long run home the James McMahon of Cooraclare-owned Lissatouk Dave (Laughill Blake-Lissatouk Dolly) gradually gained the upper hand to prevail by a neck at the line in 19.15.

There were six golden tickets for the upcoming Con & Annie Kirby Memorial on offer in Limerick on Sunday and Pat Buckley accounted for 50% of the qualifiers with Bens Teddy the standout performer.

Owned by Kim Pritchard, Bens Teddy came into the event with a stunning 28.12 trial around Tralee and given his previous form around Limerick, he looked difficult to oppose despite the calibre of opposition in the AAO trial stake. Extending his lead with every stride up the home straight, the son of Droopys Sydney and Beechgrove Bell sealed an impressive victory with over six lengths in hand in a rapid 28.37.

Kyletaun Jerry was the first qualifier for team Buckley as he landed the opening A1 stake with an off-the-pace performance. A wide-open contest saw Blackstone Bobby go off the 2/1 favourite and it was Michael O’Donovan’s charge who showed first from trap three to lead. However, Kyletaun Jerry, owned by Kenny Glen, although four lengths adrift at halfway, ate up the ground to reel in the leader close home. Sealing a first career victory for connections, the son of Laugil Blake and Killaheen Queen crossed one length clear of Blackstown Bobby, The time was 28.91.

The second of the Buckley qualifiers came in race seven, an A3 trial stake, as Road Exile blitzed the field to win comfortably.

Murt Leahy sent out another trial stake winner in race 11 as Droopys Service ran out a wide-margin winner in 28.85.

Race eight saw the A2 trial stake go down for decision and this went the way of the favourite as the Owen McKenna-trained Cree Jo Jo won in style. Owned by Paul Carpenter, the choicely bred son of Laughil Blake and Coolavanny Chick duly delivered an emphatic performance to win with plenty in hand in a time of 28.59.

Con & Annie Kirby A1 Trial Stake winner, Kyletaun Jerry. Trained by Pat Buckley for Kenny Glen, John Waters is pictured making the presentation to Sarah Buckley and connections

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DROMELIHY, COORACLARE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Annie Ryan & Stephen Boland are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct a new dwelling house, new entrance, access road, private garage and install a new wastewater treatment system along with all associated works at 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 FARRIHY, KILKEE, CO. CLARE FURTHER

INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS

Planning Ref: P22/1110

Development Description:

The construction of a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works

Location: Farrihy, Kilkee, Co.

Clare Take notice that Paula Greene has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P22/1110. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TUDOR COTTAGE, ANNAGH, MILTOWN MALBAY , CO CLARE

EIRCODE V95CT80.

Take notice that Matt O Sullivan intends to apply for PERMISSION to RETAIN the changes to the dwelling granted under P99/1509- 1. The patio doors in lieu of the window to the rear; 2. The plastered finish in lieu of stone facing to the main walls of the dwelling and 3. The first floor area with associated rooflights and windows; & for PERMISSION to extend the existing dwelling house, add new windows to the existing gables, add a rooflight to the front view, alter the window to the rear view & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to

the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CAHERMACRUSHEEN, DOOLIN, CO CLARE

Take notice that Lorraine Stringer intends to apply for PERMISSION build a new dwelling house, install a wastewater treatment system & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

6 GLEANN NA SMÓL, SHANNON, CO CLARE

I, Sue Smith, am applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at 6 Gleann na Smól, Shannon, Co Clare:

Permission for the construction of a single storey extension to the existing dwelling, together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

ARDCLOONY, KILLALOE, CO.CLARE

Take notice that I, Brian Whelan, intend to apply for planning permission for a development at Ardcloony, Killaloe, Co. Clare. The development will consist of a new single storey dwelling house and a new waste water treatment system and a bored well water supply and a new vehicular and pedestrian entrance onto the public road and all associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application 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

DERREEN, MULLAGH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Damien Crowe & Elaine Clancy intend to apply to the planning authority for (a) permission to construct an extension to the rear of an existing derelict dwelling house and (b) permission to carry out alterations to the existing dwelling and (c) upgrade the existing sewage treatment system, along with ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BOLOOGHRA, LISSYCASEY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that John Meaney intends to apply to the Planning Authority for retention of his dwelling house, sewage treatment system and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, New Road, Ennis, 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 the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

APPLICATION TO CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FOR A WASTE FACILITY PERMIT

Notice is hereby given in accordance with Articles 7 and 8 of the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007, as amended, that THOMAS CONNOLE of LISDOONVARNA ROAD, KILFENORA, CO CLARE intends to apply for a Waste Facility Permit at DOCTOR’S HILL, KILFENORA, CO CLARE to STORE & PROCESS FOR DISPOSAL OF END OF LIFE VEHICLES; STORE & COMPONENT RECOVERY OF CRASHED VEHICLES & RECLAMATION OF VEHICLE COMPONENTS FOR TRANSPORT TO RECYCLING FACILITIES

. The application for a waste facility permit will be made to Clare County Council within 10 working days of the date of this notice.

The Class(es) of Activity at the site, as specified in the Third Schedule of the Waste Management Act, 1996, as amended, is/are as follows;

D 14 Repackaging prior to submission to any of the operations numbered D 1 to D 13.

D 15 Storage pending any of the operations numbered D 1 to D 14 (excluding temporary storage (being preliminary storage according to the definition of ‘collection’ in section 5(1)), pending collection, on the site where the waste is produced).

The Class(es) of Activity at

the site, as specified in the Fourth Schedule of the Waste Management Act, 1996, as amended, is/are as follows;

R 4 Recycling/reclamation of metals and metal compounds.

R 13 Storage of waste pending any of the operations numbered R 1 to R 12 (excluding temporary storage (being preliminary storage according to the definition of “collection” in section 5(1)), pending collection, on the site where the waste is produced).

The Class(es) of Activity at the site, as specified in Part l of the Third Schedule of the Waste Management (Facility Permit and Registration) Regulations 2007, as amended, is/are as follows;

Class 4:

The reception, storage and recovery of scrap metal, including scrap metal arising from end of-life vehicles, waste vehicles (other than end of-life vehicles) and WEEE where scrap metal from—

(1) End-of-life vehicles shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery in accordance with the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the European Union (End of Life Vehicles) Regulations 2014 (S.I. 281/ 2014) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility, and as appropriate,

(2) Waste vehicles (other than end-of-life vehicles) shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery having regard to the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the European Union (End of Life Vehicles) Regulations 2014 (S.I. 281/ 2014)) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility, and as appropriate, (3) WEEE shall be subject to appropriate treatment and recovery in accordance with the provisions of articles 21, 22 and 23 of the European Union (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Regulations 2014 (S.I. No.149/2014) prior to acceptance at the scrap metal facility.

Class 12.(PRINCIPLE ACTIVITY) The collection and storage (including the temporary storage) and the appropriate treatment and recovery of end-of-life vehicles in accordance with the provisions of articles 14 and 15 of the European Union (End of Life Vehicles) Regulations 2014 (S.I. 281/ 2014)

A copy of the application for the waste facility permit will be available for inspection or purchase, as soon as is practicable after receipt by the Clare County Council, at the principal offices of Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, 10 CLUAIN UILINN, SPANISH POINT ROAD, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO.

CLARE

Take notice that M. Brennan intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter Condition No.3 of P04/2598. This will involve changing House No.10 from its use as a holiday home to its use as permanent residence at the above address. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made

to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

SPANISH POINT, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE

Further Information / Revised

Plans

Planning Ref: P22/948

Development Description: For retention permission for the dwelling house and attached garage as constructed along with associated site works at the above address. Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare. Take notice that J. Bermingham has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P22/948. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, KNOCKNAHILA MORE, MULLAGH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that B. Heaney intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter and extend his existing dwelling house and to install a proprietary waste water treatment system along with ancillary site works at the above address.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, MAIN STREET, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO CLARE

Take notice that J. & B. Rynne intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to change the use of the existing first floor area from residential into commercial use and to alter the windows/doors on the ground floor. The first floor commercial area will consist of a mulitpurpose room, staff facilities and café area which will be ancillary to the commercial use on the ground floor. The development is located within an architectural conservation area. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices

AN CHUIRT DUICHE

CASE NO: CASE NOT INITIATED THE DISTRICT COURT

S.I. NO. 174 OF 2009 NO. 68.2

BEER HOUSES (IRELAND) ACT 1864, SECTION 3 LICENSING ACT (IRELAND) 1874, SECTIONS 10 AND 37

BEER LICENCES (IRELAND) ACT 1877, SECTION 2 BEER RETAILERS’ AND SPIRIT GROCERS’ RETAIL LICENCES (IRELAND) ACT 1900 LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT 1902 INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT 2008, SECTION 7 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE FOR A NEW BEER RETAILER’S OFF-LICENCE

District Court Area of Kilrush District No. 12

JEREMIAH O RIORDAN Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant JEREMIAH O RIORDAN of knockliscrane, miltown malbay, Clare intends to apply to the Court at Kilrush District Court on the 18 Apr 2023 at 10:30 for a certificate to hold a BEER RETAILER’S OFF- LICENCE in respect of the premises situate at XL Quilty, O’Dwyers Convenience Store, Quilty, Clare, V95 YEE7 in court area and district aforesaid. Signed Michael F. Nolan

Solicitor for Applicant

Solicitors, Toler Street, Kilrush, Clare

To the Garda Superintendent, at CourtPresenters. Ennis@garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83

To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

CASE NO: CASE NOT INITIATED AN CHUIRT DUICHE

S.I. NO. 174 OF 2009 NO. 68.3

THE DISTRICT COURT LICENSING ACT (IRELAND) 1874, SECTIONS 9 AND 10

INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT 2008, SECTIONS 6, 7 AND 8

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE FOR A NEW WINE RETAILER’S OFF-LICENCE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF KILRUSH DISTRICT NO. 12 JEREMIAH O RIORDAN

Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant JEREMIAH O RIORDAN of knockliscrane, miltown malbay, miltown malbay, Clare intends to apply to the Court at Kilrush District Court on the 18 Apr 2023 at 10:30 for a certificate to hold a WINE RETAILER’S OFF-LICENCE in respect of the premises situate at XL Quilty, O’Dwyers Convenience Store, Quilty, Clare, V95 YEE7 in court area and district aforesaid. Signed Michael F. Nolan

Solicitor for Applicant

Solicitors, Toler Street, Kilrush, Clare

To the Garda Superintendent, at CourtPresenters. Ennis@garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83

To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILLEEN, COROFIN, CO.CLARE

I, Janet Buell, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning permission for (a) the demolition of an existing extension, (b) the construction of a single storey extension to the side of an existing dwelling, (c) modifications to the existing roofs of the dwelling, (d) modifications to the elevations of the existing dwelling and all ancillary site works at Killeen, Corofin, Co.Clare.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Anniversaries

Managers required for Shannagh Foods Ltd to supervise staff and to manage the unit operations. We are based in County Clare,Ennis. Nine positions; Fourty hours per week.

Annual salary €33000/- Hourly salary €15:87. Minimum one year experience required.

Email- shannagh@wardgrouplimited. com

Mobile- 0894461284

Managers required for Jmm Dominos Ltd to manage the unit operations. We are based in County Clare, Ennis. Ten positions; Fourty hours per week. Annual salary €33000/- Hourly salary €15:87/-. Minimum one year experience required.

Email- jmm@wardgrouplimited.com

Mobile- 0894461284

Managers required for Revington Foods Ltd to supervise staff and to manage our operations. We are based in County Clare, Ennis. Five positions; Fourty hours per week.

Annual salary €33000/- Hourly salary €15:87. Minimum one year experience required.

Email- revington@wardgrouplimited. com

Mobile- 0894461284

IN MEMORY OF LAURA BRENNAN (4TH ANNIVERSARY)

In loving memory of our dear daughter and sister Laura, HPV vaccine advocate, late of Creggaunnahilla, Clarecastle and 6 Woodhaven Drive, Ennis who left us on the 20th March, 2019. A date that is filled with sadness is here with us again. Memories of your laugh, your smile and your music still lives on with us. Every time we hear the music from the Greatest Showman we think of the joy you gave as we sing along. If love alone could have saved you, you would have never left us. We remember your parting words of “Live the best possible life you can”. Rest grant unto you Laura.

Loved and missed always by Mam, Dad, Colin, Fergal, Kevin, Fiona and Laura Daly, your friends and extended family.

Anniversary Mass at St. Peter’s and Paul’s Church Clarecastle and via webcam https://www.clarecastleballyeaparish.ie/ our-parish/webcam/ on Saturday 18th March at 7pm.

TUBRIDY MARTIN

1ST ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Martin Tubridy Dromelihy West, Cree, Kilrush, Co. Clare On his first Anniversary on March 19th 2023. Sadly missed by his brother James, sisterin-law Margaret, his niece Elaine and his nephews Seamus and Andrew. Martin our hearts still ache in sadness and tears still flow what it means to lose you no one will ever know. May he rest in peace.

First Anniversary Mass on Saturday March 18th at 6.00 pm at St.Mary’s Church Cree.

Continued from page 35

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

TOORMORE, RUAN, CO. CLARE

Further Information/Revised Plans

Planning Ref: P22/518

Development Description:

outline planning permission for 3 dwelling houses on separate sites with individual proprietary waste water treatment systems and percolation areas together with ancillary site works.

Location: Toormore, Ruan, Co. Clare

Take notice that PJ McNulty has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P22/518. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanies by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

The Clare Echo Quiz CRATLOE

1

QUIZ

What does the name Cratloe mean?

Land of the sallow trees

Land of the rolling hills

Land of the bogs

2 When was Saint John’s Church constructed?

1806 1791

1746

3

How long did it take local volunteers to build the replica of the Lourdes Grotto that overlooks St. John’s Church?

4 years

10 years

14 years

4 What famous historical figure gave a public speech at Saint John’s Church?

Éamon De Valera

Daniel O’ Connell

Michael Cusack

5 Who were the first people to be executed at the infamous gallows site at Gallows Hill?

. Sheep & Cattle thieves during the famine

. Members of the United Irishmen after the 1798 rebellion

. Rebels fighting against the Cromwellian invasion of Ireland

6

Cratloe Woods was once famous for its oak trees. What famous building is partly built out of its oak?

Westminister Hall, London

Áras an Uachtaráin, Dublin

The White House, Washington DC

7 In Cratloe Woods, what symbol carved onto a tree is meant to mark the buried treasure of a legendary highwayman?

A Cross

A Harp

The Ace of Hearts

8 Mr. Daniel Keane of Cratloe died in what famous event?

The sinking of the Titanic

The Spanish Flu epidemic

The Battle of the Somme

9

When was Cratloemoyle castle said to have been built?

Early fifteenth century

Early sixteenth century

Early seventeenth century

10What is the population of Cratloe as of the latest census?

692

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the 7 differences

Last weeks answers

. Top different colour on boy (right)

. Crest missing on top (middle)

. Post different colour (background)

. Nike logo missing on pants (middle)

. Black Stripe missing across grey top

. Rope on ground missing (background)

. Addidas missing on top (left)

Scenes of delight as St Joseph’s Spanish Point celebrate their All-Ireland glory

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

1. Land of the sallow trees

2. 1791

3. 4 years

4 Daniel O’ Connell

5. Rebels fighting against the ...

6. Westminister Hall, London

7. The Ace of Hearts

8. The sinking of the Titanic

9. Early sixteenth century

10.692

lQUESTION 1: What does the name Cratloe mean?

WORD SEARCH

Acid

Beaker

Bevel

Blowpipe

Brace

Chemical

Clamp

Engine

Experiment

Flask

Gauge

Isotope

Lens

Lever

Microscope

Mortar

Notebook

Ohmmeter

The Clare Echo Crossword

Pestle

Pipette

Rack

Results

Slide

Solution

Specimen

Tongs

Tube

HOW TO PLAY

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

DOWN

1 Drastic reorganisation (7)

2 Towards the stern of a ship (5)

3 Thoughtful (7)

4 Gardener’s tool (6)

5 Lustrous fabric (5)

6 Trading ban (7)

7 Considerable (5)

13 High level ground (7)

15 Stretchy (7)

16 First book of the Bible (7)

17 Proverbs (6)

18 Cringe (5)

19 Corn (5)

21 Small edible crustacean (5)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS