The Clare Echo 19/01/23

HON THE BANNER

St Flannan’s teachers say no to nursing home

Fears over ‘negative impact’ on students

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

ST FLANNAN’S staff insist a 100-bed community nursing home proposed for the grounds of St Flannan’s College would have a “seriously negative impact” on the student population. The health services executive (HSE) is seeking planning permission for the development on the Churchowned land north west of

St Flannan’s College. The community nursing home would replace existing short and long stay beds at St Joseph’s nursing home.

In a statement circulated to Clare media, staff at St Flannan’s College said, “We feel that the proposed development will have a seriously negative impact on the student population of St Flannan’s College,” noting that many school teams train

on much of the space that is suggested for development. They also noted concerns around environmental impacts around the removal of “incredible generational/ statement trees that are on the grounds”.

l Emer Burke, Caoimhe Cahill and Lauren Cahill of Banner Ladies GAA club with the Senior Championship and Senior League Cups at the club’s annual social last weekend

Photo by Natasha Barton

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Banner Ladies celebrate victories

Players Niamh ODea, Emma O’Driscoll, Louise Henchy and Laurie Ryan who have won 13 Senior Championship medals out of the last 15 finals for the Banner Ladies GAA pictured with the Senior Championship and Senior League Cups at the Victory Social in Hotel Woodstock

€15m needed for frost damage

AN extra €15m will be needed to help improve and maintain Clare’s road network after the impact of freezing weather and increased tourism traffic, writes Ronan Judge

At a meeting of the west Clare municipal district, councillor Ian Lynch (Ind) said he has written write to the Ministers for Finance,

Public Expenditure and Transport seeking additional funding for the county’s roads.

“We haven’t enough money with the roads deteriorating. We need to get the likes of Tourism Ireland to step up and cover their losses as well,” he said.

The meeting heard calls for state agencies and government department involved

in the promotion of tourism to contribute to Clare’s roads budget. The issue was raised by councillor Joe Garrihy (FG). “Our roads crew are getting hammered and we’re getting hammered for the condition of the roads. The deterioration of the roads is being added to by the part we are playing in the success of bringing people to county Clare,” he said,

Sat

Photo by Natasha Barton

Renewed bid for return of car bought with €50s

AN ENNIS man who purchased a Toyota jeep for €43,000 in cash in €50 notes in February 2021 has made a renewed court bid to have Gardai return the jeep to him, writes Gordon Deegan

At Ennis District Court last week, solicitor, Daragh Hassett had before court a Police Property application on behalf of Ned Doherty (32) of St Michael’s Park, Ballymaley, Gort Rd, Ennis for the return of his 20-2 Toyota Hilux jeep.

Unemployed at the time, Mr Doherty purchased the jeep in cash from a County Roscommon car dealer on February 23rd 2021 but it was seized 10 days later as part of a wider Garda operation that also involved the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) on March 5th 2021.

Ennis transfers to continue but no extra resources

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

The transfer of patients to Ennis hospital for emergency care will continue for the “long term”.

That’s according to Clare TD, Violet Anne Wynne (Ind) who said she has received assurances that the transfer of patients by ambulance to the medical assessment unit at Ennis is set to continue beyond the current overcrowding crisis at University Hospital Limerick (UHL).

Deputy Wynne was speaking following a meeting last week between senior HSE officials, Oireacthais members in the mid west, the Taoiseach and Minister for Health.

However Deputy Wynne said the HSE gave no assurance that extra resources would be provided at Ennis hospital.

Speaking after the meeting, Deputy Wynne confirmed; “I have spoken with the CEO of UL Hospitals Group Prof.

Colette Cowan, and she has assured me that the transferring of patients by ambulance to the MAU at Ennis Hospital for emergency care where possible will continue beyond the end of this current massive level of overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick.

“I have sought assurances that resources will be ramped up to ensure that this new MAU pathway will not detract from the existing services provided at Ennis Hospital. I have not received those assurances; however, I have been informed that the management will meet again next Monday to discuss the possible increase in resourcing required at the hospital.”

Deputy Wynne said she will be requesting that the Minister for Health establish a task force “to re-evaluate the decisions made to close the Emergency Department at Ennis Hospital and what the best steps forward are to ensure that all hospitals within the UL Hospitals Group are

operating to the best of their ability to lessen and keep the pressure off the bottleneck in the Emergency Department at UHL.”

Deputy Wynne said, continued; “I can confirm that since the beginning of the trial on both Monday and Tuesday, three patients were taken by ambulance to Ennis with two of them able to be treated there onsite and no need to add to the overcrowding in Limerick. This is hugely significant, but it is just a first step. It is vital now that pressure is kept on the Minister and Taoiseach to see the increase of the MAU hour to 18 or 24 hours a day opening, not merely eight.

“The next step beyond a 24-hour MAU must be the addition of a full Emergency Department – the upgrade of Ennis to a model 3 hospital to complement the model 4 at UHL.

“As we are all aware, UHL is the only model 4 hospital in the country without a comple-

mentary model 3.

“The massive overcrowding crisis that we have witnessed over the past few weeks is a direct result of the stripping of emergency services from Ennis in 2009 and it is now clearer than ever that the only thing to ensure we are not faced with the same crisis this time next year is to upgrade Ennis to a model 3 hospital”.

In a statement management and staff at UL Hospitals Group/HSE Mid West Community Healthcare welcomed the two hour virtual meeting with politicians.

Prof Colette Cowan, CEO, UL Hospitals Group, said: “This was a very valuable engagement initiated by Minister Donnelly. We listened carefully to all concerns raised by Oireachtas members and we look forward to working with all public representatives in better meeting the growing demand for healthcare in the region into the future.

Mr Hassett told the court that the vehicle was seized almost two years ago and Mr Doherty has yet to be charged in relation to any offence or for any application to be made by the State to permanently seize the vehicle. Mr Hassett said that the vehicle was seized during the course of an investigation. Mr Hassett said that Mr Doherty purchased the jeep from his own funds “and he hasn’t seen it since and it is now almost two years.

Mr Hassett said that a previous Police Property application he made on behalf of Mr Doherty in the district court for the return of the jeep wasn’t successful after a Garda detective gave a strong indication that Mr Doherty would face a charge sooner rather than later. He said: “The silence since is deafening and Mr Doherty has been without a jeep for over two years.”

Sg Aiden Lonergan asked that the application be struck out as Mr Doherty had not turned up in court to advance his Police Property application. Mr Hassett said that Mr Doherty wasn’t in court as he has been showing flu-like symptoms and asked that the case be put back for two weeks. Sgt Lonergan said that the case has been set for hearing since October 2022 and told Judge Gabbett “the State has had to prepare for this hearing and the detective has taken considerable time to prepare submissions and to be in court and Mr Doherty has decided not to turn up.

Judge Alec Gabbett said: “Normally I would be with you entirely but sometimes these things need to be heard to solve a problem.”

Judge Gabbett adjourned the case for two weeks for hearing and if Mr Doherty doesn’t show the case will be struck out.

Previously in court, Det Sgt Kieran Crowley of Ennis Garda Station said that the payment by Mr Doherty for the €43,000 jeep in €50 notes raised a question for Gardai as to where those funds came from. Det Crowley told the court that Mr Doherty was in receipt of social welfare and receives €307 a week and was not employed.

Det Sgt Crowley stated that the jeep was a “vital exhibit” in the ongoing Garda investigation.

Det Sgt Crowley said that Gardai have generated a financial profile on Mr Doherty and others from the financial documents they have received from financial institutions as part of their investigation.

Three in one

Football training has started in earnest in Kilmihil and one year old Sonny Daly is getting in some practice with his left foot Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Gort Biogas Concern Group raise €82,000 to help with campaign

lynamantan, Kinincha and Glenbrack, Gort.

The group are hoping to seek a judicial review of An Bord Pleanála’s decision to grant planning permission.

The group said €82,000 has been raised in two weeks since the launch of a fundraising campaign and in a statement added, “The company’s sole purpose is to use funding to challenge legally via a judicial review and any legal and expert fees tendered. No other spending outside this remit is permitted”.

In the statement Gort Biogas Concern Group said it would “like to express their gratitude for the amazing generous response to their fundraising appeal, in order to protect Gort and South Galway from a catastrophic biogas development. From far and near people have donated 82,000 euro in less then two weeks after the public meeting on January 4. Contributions continue to grow, giving the group the strength to push onwards”.

The group said that it it wished to clarify to its donors how the funding is managed and to underline bona-fide membership and solid company structure.

and with complete transparency”.

A statement outlining the group’s funding campaign and management was published online on January 16.

It includes the names of directors, accountants and legal and finance teams.

A GROUP opposed to plans for a biogas plant in Gort have published a transparency statement on its membership and funding management, writes Ronan Judge.

The Gort Biogas Concern Group CLG said

it had done so to clarify to donors how funding is spent and its “bone fide membership”.

The group opposes plans by Sustainable Bio-Energy Ltd for a biogas plant on a 10.1hectare site in the townlands of Bal-

According to the statement, “The company Gort Biogas Concern Group CLG was established in 2021 in order to control and clarify the objective of the group. This was important to protect the group’s volunteer members, should the campaign need to move towards a judicial review and further. It was also important to represent the community legitimately

The group said, “Access to accounts is strictly controlled by joint treasurers and company secretary. Our finances are returned annually by our above named company accountant. The company’s sole purpose is to use funding to challenge legally via a judicial review and any legal and expert fees tendered. No other spending outside this remit is permitted. Volunteers do not and cannot claim expenses or personal costs. Our accounts are available for inspection after CRO annual submissions. Receipts are issued only if requested and the company advises donors to keep proof of lodgement or pledge. It is hoped that the above information gives a clear and concise explanation as to how our company insures transparency and control of the most appreciated community and business contributions”. Meanwhile, the concern group are organising walks to the proposed site of the biogas plant every Sunday afternoon.

The walk, which will include information on the development, leaves Lidl car park at 2pm. Gort Biogas Concern Group CLG said it wished to sincerely thank the wider community for their continued financial support for the group’s campaign.

l ENVIRONMENT: Gort Biogas Concern Group outside the planned site

Survivor fined for growing cannabis

A west Clare cancer survivor who turned to cannabis for pain relief after the “horrible” ‘Oxycontin’ opioid drug played havoc with him has been convicted of cultivating cannabis plants, writes Gordon Deegan

At Kilrush District Court, Judge Mary Larkin fined James Lawrence (61) of Kiltumper, Kilmihil, Co Clare €100 after he pleaded guilty to the cultivation of cannabis without a licence at his home on July 3rd 2021.

Judge Larkin told Mr Lawrence that she wished him well. She said that she just wished someone of Mr Lawrence’s age would find a better way and not have to come into court “and if he has issues, I would like him to resolve them without having to come in here”.

Sgt Louis Moloney told the court that during the course of a Garda search of Mr Lawrence’s home on July 3rd 2021, a quantity of cannabis herb was discovered in the living room and three cannabis plants were discovered in a bedroom.

On behalf of Mr Lawrence, solicitor, Patrick Moylan stated that Mr Lawrence was diagnosed with cancer in 2018 and underwent surgery and later six months of chemotherapy.

Mr Moylan said that after that Mr Lawrence was put on the prescribed drug Oxycontin. Mr Moylan said: “This is the infamous drug that is featuring in the documentaries in the United States.”

A prescribed opioid, Oxycontin is used for the relief of moderate to severe pain but has been blamed for the deaths of tens of thousands in the US who became addicted to the drug.

In court, Mr Moylan said: “Mr Lawrence said that Oxycontin was a horrible drug and played havoc with him and he reverted to cannabis.” Mr Moylan said: “Mr Lawrence wanted to avoid pain - it was either Oxyctonin or cannabis. He had researched the topic on the Internet and all the US doctors were prescribing cannabis for this pain after chemotherapy.”

In response, Judge Larkin remarked: “There is no need for medical practitioners at all now, people can rely on Google.”

Mr Moylan said: “Mr Lawrence didn’t want to be dealing with drug dealers and that is when he started to grow his own cannabis. He used it until he got caught. He is in remission with his cancer now thankfully.” Mr Moylan said: “Mr Lawrence hasn’t come to Garda attention

Match of a lifetime for Clodagh and Chloe

MERCHANTS SQ ENNIS

Newborns have blurry vision for the first four months that develops over time, but they do love to focus on your face (especially your eyes) as you hold them

It takes about four months for a baby to fully see colors and distant objects

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

IT WAS a weekend to remember for Clare woman Clodagh O’Halloran.

After going over for a try in Munster’s victory on Saturday, Clodagh went down on one knee to propose to partner and teammate, Chloe Pearse.

And as family and their Munster teammates looked on, Chloe said yes.

It emerged afterwards that

Clodagh had planned to propose if Munster beat Leinster.

Prior to to the game, the Kilkishen native told her parents about the proposal plan, asked Chloe’s parents and had informed Munster manager of the potential show-stopping end to Saturday’s Interpro clash.

“I just went straight over to Chloe and I did the job. I had a whole speech ready in my head but that didn’t happen because the girls were just erupting

around us. I just mentioned that it as in front of our second family, which was all the girls with Munster”, Clodagh told the Irish Independent afterwards.

Dozens of well wishers offered congratulations after Munster rugby posted a picture of the onfield proposal on Saturday.

Chloe revealed she didn’t know anything about Clodagh’s post match proposal.

“Clodagh made a beeline for me in the circle and I was think-

ing, ‘why is she standing beside me ‘ because we’re always across from each other”, she said.

On the pitch, Clodagh scored a try as Munster held on for a 2617 win over Leinster to make it two wins from two in the Interprovincial championship.

Munster will hope to celebrate Chloe and Clodagh’s engagement in style if they retain the Interpro title with a draw or victory against Connacht this weekend.

Surgeries still cancelled at Ennis Hospital

DAY surgery remains cancelled at Ennis general hospital amid a wave of respiratory infections that the health services executive (HSE) says has not yet peaked, writes Ronan Judge In a statement, University Limerick Hospi-

tal Group (ULHG), said surgery at hospitals in Ennis and Nenagh are cancelled this week "as both hospitals have opened additional capacity for inpatients".

University Hospital Limerick has been under severe pressure in recent weeks with record overcrowding. Non-critical patients now being brought by ambulance to Ennis for the first time in over 10 years.

The statement said a meeting of the Hospital Crisis Management Team last Friday confirmed that limited elective surgery could resume from January 16 at University Hospital Limerick, St John’s Hospital and Croom Orthopaedic Hospital. Patients will be contacted directly to confirm attendance.

Day surgery is canceled at Ennis and Nenagh and patients affected will be contacted directly by staff.

ULHG said outpatient clinics and endoscopy at Ennis and Nenagh continue as scheduled and patients are advised to attend for their appointments. The statement continues, "Outpatient clinics are also running as scheduled at UHL, St John’s, Croom and University Maternity Hospital Limerick. All our hospitals are operating above capacity and staff remain on high alert amid a surge of

respiratory infection in the community that has not yet reached its peak. As a temporary measure, medical assessment units at St John’s and Nenagh hospitals have moved from a five to a seven-day week to allow for additional GP referrals for medical assessment. Ennis Hospital MAU already operates seven days per week. Members of the public are reminded that patients cannot be seen at our MAUs without a referral".

ULHG said there has been a reduction in the numbers presenting at UHL emergency department but services remain "under pressure".

Patients are being asked to consider all healthcare options before attending the ED. Visiting restrictions remain in place at UHL. The only exceptions to the ban are as follows: Parents visiting children in hospital; People assisting confused patients (e.g. dementia); People visiting patients who are critically unwell or at end of life (on a caseby-case basis).

All these exemptions are limited to one person per patient only. Relatives or loved ones are advised that a service is in place to drop off or collect patient’s belongings at the main hospital reception.

l SHE SAID YES: Munster’s Clodagh O’Halloran proposes to Chloe Pearse

Photo by Inpho/Evan Treacy

Classic céilí to be relaunched in glór “Huge appetite” for meals on wheels

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

THE expansion of a meals on wheels service will be an important step in improving the lives and wellbeing of older people in Clare.

Clare County Council has said while it cannot be involved in operating meals on wheels, assistance will be available to help get the service up and running in west and north Clare.

A meeting of the West Clare municipal district heard there is a “huge appetite” for the service, which has been successfully operated in other areas of the county by Obair.

own communities and to have a consistent regular contact linking them to locally delivered services”.

At the meeting, Cllr Garrihy welcomed the extensive and detailed response and said there would be “exponential benefits” to the roll out of the service. “On the ground, resources are going to be required to manage this and there is going to a be volunteer and paid element required to make it consistent, reliable and successful”, he added.

Councillor Murphy said he was “blown away” by the work being done by Obair.

“A lot of those details will start to come but I know Obair themselves have had an awful lot of interest. There is a huge appetite for this out there. Looking at all the things that are happening in our local authority area, this is a complete no-brained for rural development”.

THE re-launch of the classic trad music album St. Flannan’s Céilí Bands Reunion takes place in Glór on Jan 22nd. By the early 1970s, the traditional music revival in Clare had brought many young musicians to St. Flannan’s. Determined to foster this talent, Fr. John Hogan, himself a fine fiddler, organised the first College Céilí Band in 1970. The baton was soon taken up by Fr. Joe McMahon and later Fr. James Grace. This album gives a sample of the musicians and bands who contributed to that early successful era, during which u18 All-Ireland CB titles were won in 1971, ’76, ’78 and ’79. The cassette was first issued in 1981 to

mark the centenary of the College. The album includes early-career solo items from Noel Hill (concertina), Paul Roche of Stockton’s Wing (flute), Tony Linnane (fiddle), Peadar Cleary (vocals), Eamonn Cotter of Shaskeen (flute), Gearóid Ó hAllmhuráin (uilleann pipes) and Dermot Lernihan (accordion) who in 1981 had already become artists of note. The Céilí Band tracks also include many younger musicians whose careers flourished later on.

Proceeds from the launch event and the CD sales will go towards purchase of instruments for St. Flannan’s music department. Tickets available from www.glor.ie.

A joint motion tabled by councillors Joe Garrihy (FG) and Cillian Murphy (FF) called on the “West Clare municipal district, Age Friendly Clare, and the Rural Development Directorate to support local community groups, the HSE and Obair Newmarket, in the establishment of a meals on wheels and odd job service for West and North Clare”.

They say the initiative would “enable older people to live healthier and longer in their

“You look at trying to avoid duplication, it was good to meet with senior staff in Obair and cut through all of the stuff and get a clear model of how this would work”, Councillor Murphy said.

He continued, “Community and volounary group people will be the workhorses behind this but there has to be some sort of agency coordination. Since this has gone public I have been overwhelmed by people from all over west Clare asking when it would happen.

In reply to the motion, Bernie Haugh, acting senior executive officer, said the rural development directorate fully supports the establishment of a meals on wheels and odd job service for west and north Clare. She said this is to support the ageing population which is aligned with the council’s objectives under rural development strategy, age friendly strategy and healthy Clare strategy.

Ms Haugh continued, “The healthy Clare coordinator and the rural and community development officers are available to work with all stakeholders to support the health and wellbeing and community development aspects of the local community group who is leading this worthwhile project.

l TRAD: St. Flannan’s Céilí Band c.1976. Rear L to R: Pat Nugent, Gerard Carey, Gerard Keane, Joseph Keane, Michael Nugent, Pat Barry. Front L to R: Vincent McMahon, Paul Roche, Dermot Lernihan, Eamonn Fahy, Eamonn Cotter.

Teachers stand against nursing home

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

A 100-BED community nursing home proposed for the grounds of St Flannan’s College would have a “seriously negative impact” on the student population.

That’s according to staff at the Ennis school who have outlined their objections to the project.

The health services executive (HSE) is seeking planning permission for the development at lands at Clonroadmore, south east of Turnpike Road and north west of St Flannan’s College.

The community nursing home would replace existing short and long stay beds at St Joseph’s nursing home.

Staff at the school say the development would have a significant impact on sport at the school and the “environmental impact would be significant”.

They also highlight the growing student population with the last two academic years being “the two largest ever enrolments in the history of the college”.

In a statement, staff at St Flannan’s College say, “We feel that the proposed development will have a seriously negative impact on the student population of St Flannan’s College for the following reasons: On any evening during the academic year there are many teams train-

ing on the pitches. This can include hurling, Gaelic football, camogie, ladies football, soccer and athletics. With so many students on the fields at any one time all our field space is utilised, including much of the space that is suggested for development under the proposed new facility. Such is the demand for space, a rota is updated regularly for the use of various pitches by the many teams which represent the college”.

The statement continues, “The fields at St. Flannan’s College act as a running track for athletes in the school and in the community all year round. Several people in the wider community use the grounds as a running track in the evenings. Also, St. Flannan’s College itself has a rich tradition of athletics and has fostered a love of running in many past and present pupils, many of whom have represented the school

in meets all round the country. Indeed, many of our athletes have and continue to represent their country in their chosen discipline”.

“The environmental impact would be significant. Incredible generational/statement trees that are on the grounds of St. Flannan’s College will be removed altogether. The response from the HSE in relation to this was “new trees and planting will be added throughout

the development to compensate for existing trees”. “We feel no new planting can compensate for the loss of these landmarks in the area. These, along with the areas surrounding the trees, are incredibly rich in biodiversity. There will also be a huge influx of extra traffic into an area which is already suffering from traffic congestion.”

The statement adds, “The student population of St. Flannan’s College is growing. In the academic year 2021/2022 we enrolled 240 new 1st Year students. This was repeated in the academic year 2022/2023. These were the two largest ever enrolments in the history of the college. The green field site in St. Flannan’s College is the last remaining site of its kind in Ennis. Urban sprawl is taking up much more of our green spaces each year. Once this land is built upon it will be gone forever.

Staff said they understand the need for a new community hospital in Ennis. “However, we believe that there are several more appropriate sites available for development”, the statement adds. Local residents and a former principal of St Flannan’s College, Colm McDonagh, have already objected to the proposed development. The application is subject to a further information request from Clare County Council who have also expressed concern about the impact of the project.

l DEVELOPMENT: Staff say there is a high demand for green spaces

LEO clients create 261 jobs

lEmployment

for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, said; “These results show the significant role the Local Enterprise Offices are playing in not only creating new businesses and jobs but also in sustaining them. On the back of some of the most difficult years for small businesses we are still seeing growth across the country. During the pandemic we saw how essential the LEOs were to small businesses and they will be essential as we navigate the ongoing cost of living and energy crises.

LOCAL Enterprise Office Clare supported companies created 261 jobs in 2022, according to new figures released by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney TD.

The net jobs created by Local Enterprise Office Clare supported clients in 2022 was 105, which takes into account companies that amalgamated, ceased trading and those that transferred on to Enterprise Ireland.

The new figures show that the LEO Clare financially supported 220 small businesses in their portfolio across the county. These companies in turn employ 1,353 people.

Local Enterprise Offices across the country were announced with the LEOs now supporting 37,863 jobs across 7,221 companies. In 2022 there were 7,870 new jobs created by LEO clients companies with a net jobs creation figure of 3,447. This was up 10% nationally on 2021. From the jobs created, 84% were outside of the Dublin region.

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

The LEOs also provide substantial funded supports to thousands of other small businesses across the country with programmes such as the Trading Online Voucher, Lean for Micro and Green for Micro along with training and mentoring.

The total national figures for the

Simon Coveney, T.D., Minister

“With 84% of new jobs being created outside of Dublin it reinforces the Government’s strategy to strengthen employment throughout Ireland. As the remit of the Local Enterprise Offices has now broadened to companies up to 50 employees, even more SMEs will be able to avail of their supports, but also their expertise in growing enterprise in towns and villages across the country.”

The Local Enterprise Offices were to the fore in supporting small businesses across the country in 2022, helping thousands to pivot online or adapt their products and services through a large suite of supports. They Local Enterprise Offices offering training and mentoring in a range of areas from financial skills and product innovation to starting your own business and maximising your

presence online.

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 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.

Padraig McElwee, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Clare, said; “The results announced today are a testament to Ireland’s small business community. When faced with adversity, they have adapted, pivoted, upskilled and did whatever it took to sustain themselves. The figures show that companies have seen the opportunities in the challenging trading conditions they have faced. The Local Enterprise Offices across the country have gone above and beyond in their support of small businesses but there is renewed optimism. We are seeing new opportunities for Irish businesses here and as always with tough economic periods we see new ideas and companies emerge and flourish. This year will be no different and as we continue to work closely with Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities to ensure our small businesses get the best possible supports there are certainly green shoots emerging across the country.”

The Local Enterprise Offices located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Go to www. LocalEnterprise.ie for info.

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

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

Leave Peadar Clancy out of it

Former station gets new lease of life

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

THE former Inagh Garda station is set to be the new home for a local housing association.

Clare County Council confirmed this week that it had purchased the property for €20,000.

their cumann after my great-grand uncle, Peadar Clancy. Not only Peadar though, but also after Provisional IRA attempted bomber Mairéad Farrell.

IT’S rare that Irish stories are the talk of tinsel town. Nevertheless, the Irish have always been a story telling people, with a great oral tradition.

Therefore, it is more of a surprise that such accolades are not more common. However, one thing that always annoys is the usual historical revisionism that accompanies any such cinematic portrayal of Irish events. Neil Jordan’s “Michael Collins” set the tone for just how historically inaccurate these films can be. The latest international success, the Banshees of Inisherin, performs similar acts of revisionism with the film’s portrayal to the civil war.

Director Martin McDonagh says of the civil war, “All you need to know, really, is that it was over a hairline difference of beliefs which had been shared up until the year before.” Anyone who has studied the history of the time, those involved, and their motivations, would know how grossly inaccurate that statement is.

Although not a historian McDonagh, given his wish to portray these events to an international audience, should have done his research and got it somewhat right, even if it wasn’t key to the story he was telling. That is true of all of us who wish to recount the stories of our shared history on this island. It is important to remember these distinctions and accurate recall the motivations and methods employed by those involved. This has taken a very personal turn for me recently after it was brought to my family’s attention that the Ennis cumann of Provisional Sinn Féin had named

Christmas time gave the wider Clancy family in Clare time to meet and discuss this, and the overwhelming sentiment was that, as per the longstanding unwritten rule that had always prevailed in the family, Peadar’s name should not be claimed or associated with any modern political party. To recount briefly, Peadar was a key member of Clare Sinn Féin, the party founded by Arthur Griffith, and gave up his nomination to contest the 1917 East Clare by-election to his friend Eamon de Valera on request by GHQ.

This party later split into Cumann na nGeadheal, Fianna Fáil and Official Sinn Féin, which itself was later renamed the Workers Party before eventually merging with Labour in 2002. As such, the party Peadar was a member of does not exist anymore. He was a 1916 hero and war of Independence martyr, being killed, whilst being held prisoner, by crown forces in Dublin Castle as reprisals for the British agents killed earlier in the day on Bloody Sunday 1920.

Amongst his heroic actions during this time, he was also commended for his gallantry by the British, including by Lord Dunsany whom Peadar had wounded during the Rising, when Dunsany drove towards a barricade on Dublin’s quays.

However, finding Dunsany and Colonel Lindsey, both active British Army officers, unarmed, Clancy deemed them non-combatants and therefore to be immediately released and escorted for medical assistance. The line between right and wrong was clear in Peadar’s mind.

By contrast Farrell was once convicted of attempting to bomb the Conway Hotel in Belfast, before being shot and killed trying to repeat the feat in Gibraltar town centre. The extrajudicial killing of Farrell and her accomplices by the British Army was wrong. They should have been apprehended and faced trial for the terrorism they were involved in.

It’s pure luck that neither of these bombs went off which would undoubtedly have killed many innocent people. Trying to equate the two people is, frankly, an insult to Peadar and barefaced historical revisionism. The organisation Peadar was Vice-Brigadier of at the time of his death is now called the Irish Defence Forces; the one true Oglaigh na hÉireann.

Saying they were comparable is an attempt to claim Peadar’s legacy in order to try justify the terrorist actions of the Provisional movement. It is wrong and the family is rightly disgusted by the association. Attempts were made to contact Ennis SF but rather than answer questions directly in writing, the family’s concerns were brushed aside, and the vague, uninspiring offer of a meeting was put out. No meeting is necessary for this party to abide by the wishes of over 100 Clare voters to stop using our family to try re-write history.

Scrambling to try find a distant relative, who by their own admission didn’t even know of Peadar until a decade ago, to try justifying their claim, is further insult. It’s not a complicated or difficult request to adhere to. But it does raise an important question; if they’re unwilling to do these simple things, that are within their power, at the request of constituents, what happens when the requests are more difficult?

It will be the new headquarters for the Inagh housing association which has recently amalgamated with the Inis housing association - a tier 2 approved housing body providing homes to eligible individuals and families mainly in the Mid West region

In its latest monthly management report the council states it had recently signed contracts for the acquisition of the former Inagh Garda Station from the Office of Public Works (OPW).

The report continues, “This is a further example of moving to acquire vacant buildings and work with local groups to find a use for them. In this case, it is proposed to lease the small building to the Local Housing Association, who will base staff in the building and use it as their office. Such collaborations are key to local community development. When the acquisition is completed, the proposal

for leasing will be brought to Council for approval”.

The lease of the former Garda station came before the January meeting of the west Clare municipal district.

A senior official told councillors the building would provide a base in north Clare for the housing association.

“It has been vacant since the Garda station closed. Currently the office of public works are selling some of the more high profile Garda stations in the county. Because this was of limited use and wouldn’t be suitable as a residence, we acquired it for the sum of €20,000.

We’re just going through the close of the sale. It’s being

bought for the Inagh housing association to have as an office. Currently they are amalgamating with the Inis housing association. This would be an office base for them”, the official said, Councillor Shane Talty congratulated Inagh housing association on the development.

“I’d like to congratulate those in the Inagh housing association. I think they have recognised the limitations of their own capacity. They have done great work over the last 10 years or so. They are partnering now with Inis and it will give them a base for North Clare”, he said.

l HOUSING ASSOCIATION: Inagh Garda Station

EOIN

NEYLON POLITICS

l FAMILY: Eoin’s great grandmother Susan O’Connell (neé Clancy, who was the recipient of Peadar’s state pension) and my grandmother (her daughter), Susan Neylon (among aunts and uncles) at the breaking ground for the bust of Peadar that is now in Kildysart village centre

Plan your perfect day with Inn at Dromoland wedding showcase

l DREAM WEDDING: Places are limited so book now to avoid disappointment

THE Inn at Dromoland is hosting a ‘Planning your Wedding Day’ showcase event on Sunday January 22nd from 2-5pm. This is a must-attend show for all recently engaged couples planning to get married in the coming years. Expect an afternoon of expert tips and advice on planning your dream

wedding day, while also having the opportunity to see first-hand why the Inn at Dromoland can be your perfect wedding venue!

Enjoy live chats and interviews on stage with some of Munster’s most experienced and award-winning wedding suppliers, hosted by Brides of Munster Publisher April

Drew.

Hear the best tips from the best wedding professionals on how to plan the perfect wedding day and enjoy an afternoon of delicious wedding treats prepared by the Inn at Dromoland’s Head Chef Fergal McGee.

There will also be an opportunity

to meet with Wedding Co-Ordinator Pauline Cassidy and to discuss having your dream wedding reception at the Inn at Dromoland where amazing all-inclusive packages start from only €60pp.

Tickets for this event are free but advance booking for the event is essential as limited spaces are

available.

To register visit www.theinnatdromoland.ie. For any other questions or queries about the event please email Pauline.cassidy@theinnatdromoland.ie or call 061-368161.

PLANNING YOUR

Perfect Wedding Day

Sunday January 22, 2023 from 2-5pm

Live chats on stage with an array of Munster’s finest wedding experts, hosted by Brides of Munster Publisher April Drew.

Hear from the professionals on how to plan the perfect wedding day and enjoy an afternoon of wedding treats prepared by the Inn at Dromoland's Head Chef Fergal McGee.

Tickets are free but advance booking for the event is essential. Limited spaces available. Visit www.theinnatdromoland.ie to register now.

For questions or queries about the event please contact the Inn's Wedding Co-Ordinator Pauline by emailing pauline.cassidy@theinnatdromoland.ie or calling 061-368161.

SHANNON NEWS

in association with

Lufthansa Technik expansion a ‘major vote of confidence in Shannon’

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

THE opening of a new Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon (LTTS) aircraft maintenance facility, is a “major vote of confidence in Shannon,” according to Joe Carey TD (FG).

The immediate creation of a further 25 jobs is one in a series of positive developments that underline Shannon’s revival as a driver of economic growth in the Mid-West region, Carey noted.

The Lufthansa expansion will not only lead to another significant increase in employment at LTTS later in the year but it will trigger a major post-Covid uplift of the Shannon aviation sector.

“The revival of Shannon’s job creation fortunes isn’t confined to aviation-related industries and I am aware of a number of companies in the med-tech and logistics sectors who are planning significant expansions of their operations both on the airport campus and the Shannon Free Zone,” Deputy Carey explained.

“This is a major vote of confidence in Shannon and a payoff for the significant level of ongoing investment by the Shannon Airport Group, which amounted to almost €30 million last year alone,” he added.

The latest expansion by LTTS is being facilitated by a new 2,000 square metre facility commissioned by the Shannon Airport Group, which is on course to be

fully operational by March.

It will enable the company to offer new products for turbine engines that power Boeing 737 and Airbus A320 aircraft.

The post-Covid recovery of the aviation sector has seen a big increase in demand for the maintenance, repair and overhaul of aircraft engines and components, which is the the core business of LTTS.

This has led to a doubling of its workforce in Shannon over the past 18 months.

The company, which is celebrating 30 years in Shannon, currently employs more than 300 people in its Irish operation which includes facilities in Kildare and Dublin.

Victory for Shannon Town

lREVIVAL: Joe Carey TD (FG) pictured at the entrance to Shannon Free Zone

Shannon Town players Damian O'Brien, Jack Ryan, and Fionn Mcinreary after their side's Junior Cup win at the weekend over Corkbeg

Photo by Joe Buckley

Cellnet help customers tackle cost of living with community broadband

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

COUNTY Clare-based broadband and Wifi providers are offering customers in Ennis a cost-effective broadband solution.

In a bid to help communities in Ennis soften the blow of the cost of living crisis, Cellnet are offering the broadband plan from just €29.99 per month on a rolling monthly contract.

Based in Ballybeg Business Park, Ennis, Cellnet have begun to roll out Ennis Community Broadband in the south-east part of Ennis taking in estates on the Limerick Road, Clare Road and Turnpike areas; after which time they will begin servicing the rest of town.

Nick Manowski of Cellnet tells The Clare Echo, “People have to contend with rising everyday costs so we wanted to offer this essential service at an affordable price. Ennis Community Broadband is a cheap and affordable, short contract broadband solution with good speeds and unlimited data for all customers in Ennis who are struggling to pay high bills.”

Ennis Community Broadband operates wirelessly with speeds of up to 100MG which will provide customers a very reliable service for working from home, Zoom calls and streaming online. There is no phone line or fibre connection requirement and installation which takes 2-3 hours costs €150.

Cellnet are encouraging all Ennis residents who are interested in Ennis Community Broadband to get in touch to avail of this offer. Call Cellnet on 065 6703300 or visit www. cellnet.ie.

l CONNECTIVITY: Cellnet are taking an innovative approach to tackling household bills

‘Mother knows best’ for Cloughleigh drama group

Notes

COMMUNITY TEXT ALERT AGM

The AGM of Ballyea Community Text Alert takes place on Thursday 26th January at Ballyea Community Centre at 8:00pm. All are welcome to attend. Members of the Gardai will attend the meeting with information and are available to answer any concerns you may have.

CHANGING GEARS COURSE

Age & Opportunity is delighted to offer Changing Gears in Ennis for free this February & March. Designed to boost wellbeing and resilience, it focuses on managing transitions in mid to later life. Aimed at those aged 50+ Changing Gears offers participants time to: Develop skills and techniques to build resilience and confidence in managing life-changes and reframe transitions as opportunities with positive options. The course will take place at The Old Ground Hotel, Ennis on Friday mornings. To book a place please e-mail Fiona at engage@ageandopportunity.ie. For further information see: ageandopportunity.ie

ROCK RISING

THE stage is set for Cloughleigh Amateur Group’s production of Mother Knows Best, a three act play by Jimmy Keary, writes Elaine Tubridy

While doing a painting job for the McDermotts, Nick Cassidy renews a friendship with their youngest daughter, Suzy.

The two begin dating, much to the disapproval of Suzy’s mother, Tess, who is hoping to make

a match for her daughter with stuffy financial consultant, Adrain Bird.

Tess resolves to break up the couple by any means possible.

Such is Tess’s pre-occupation with her daughter’s love life, she fails to notice that her own daughter is falling under the spell of her man-hungry golfing partner Dulcie Cotter.

Matters come to a head when Nick’s workmate Joe Galligan

breaks into McDermotts, looking for money to pay off his gambling debts. During the theft, Tess’s plotting is exposed and Harry comes to a fateful decision.

Directed by Pauleen McAllister, the play stars Naoise McSweeney as Nick Cassidy, Andrea O’Regan as Suzy McDermott and Geraldine Sherlock as Tess McDermott, along with Willie Crowley, Kieran Walsh, Monica Haugh, Lilly Murray,

Calls issued to protect vulnerable road users

THERE have been calls for improved safety measures on the Gort Road in Ennis to protect vulnerable road users.

A meeting of the Ennis municipal district (MD) heard there have been a number of "near misses" at a pedestrian crossing in the area.

Raising the issue, councillor Mary Howard (FG) stated "there have been a number of near misses of vulnerable road users at the pedestrian crossing at Hogan's shop on the Gort Road, in front of Glenina and Pine Grove estates".

"Is it possible to upgrade the crossing to make it more visible to traffic to ensure the safety of users", Cllr Howard added.

In reply, Paddy Tiernan, acting senior executive engineer stated, "Ennis MD commits to reviewing this pedestrian crossing and will investigate measures to improve the visibility of the crossing.

“Branches of trees which

impact the visibility of the crossing will be trimmed back. Ennis MD will also review the current line marking and advance warning signage and upgrade if deemed necessary".

Cllr Howard told the meeting the issue was brought to her attention by the local Gaelscoil.

Cllr Howard said, "They find people are running across because cars are not stopping. It's not as obvious as the other pedestrian crossing and they feel it is quite dangerous. So they are asking if we could look at it and upgrade it in any way.

I was cognisant of it when I was driving on the road and you do actually come upon it quite quickly."

Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG), said, "This is a particularly vulnerable one (crossing). It is so wide that vulnerable road users like children or the elderly residents in the area feel quite exposed due to the distance and the speed of traffic".

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) told the meting that traffic on the

Gort Road can be chaotic.

"You have schools there, the industrial estate as well as two estates, Pine Grove and Glenina. But definitely that pedestrian crossing needs upgrading. There are kids running across the road there. It's a death trap at times,” he added.

Ian Chaplin of Clare County Council, told councillors that current standards are different to what was in place when the crossing was installed.

He said a survey would guide the council on how to proceed but one of the difficulties with the location are the adjacent accesses roads.

Mr Chaplin continued, "Normally when we are upgrading crossings like this, sometimes the simpler things we can use are things like lining of the road to highlight the crossing and signing on the approaches. That might come into whatever we might propose going forward".

Catch Mother Knows Best at Cloughleigh Community Centre, Davitt Terrace, Ennis on Friday, January 27, Saturday, January 28, Friday February 3 and Saturday, February 4 at 8pm. Tickets are available from O’Brien’s Gala Foodstore, Cloughleigh Road and PACO Clothes Shop, Limerick Road, Ennis. Admission €10.

Rock Rising is a high octane, classic rock show designed to take the audience on an edge of their seats journey through the evolution of classic rock. This show features rock anthems from legendary acts such as Pink Floyd, AC/ DC, Journey, Foreigner, Toto, Thin Lizzy and many more multi platinum selling artists from the last four decades. Saturday 28 January 8:00pm at glór, Ennis. €25.50 + €1 Booking fee. See glor.ie.

Conor Clohessy, Sinead Sherlock and Claire Guthrie.

lPRESS PLAY: The cast of Mother Knows Best

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

SINGERS CIRCLE

XPO Kilnaboy Singers’ Circle meets every Monday from 8pm. This long-standing singing group has been meeting for over 15 years, exchanging songs and memories each Monday night. The Singers’ Circle meets every week to share songs with each other in a relaxed, inclusive and fun way.

New members are very welcome!

XPO is run on a 100% voluntary basis by people in the community and is a not-for-profit space. All our events are free but donations are welcome.

ENNIS BOOK CLUB FESTIVAL LINE-UP ANNOUNCED

THE full programme for the 17th Ennis Book Club Festival has been announced. This year’s festival will offer a vibrant programme of live events and activities for book lovers of all ages. As always, the festival will offer opportunities to engage with your favourite authors and features an additional programme of events for younger readers.

The official launch of the 2023 Festival takes place on Friday 27th January when the Laureate for Irish Fiction, Colm Tóibín, will present The Art of Reading, a monthly club for library book clubs across the country which will take place in Ennis. Colm will join us online from the U.S., in conversation with Louise Kennedy to discuss her superb debut novel, Trespasses.

Friday March 3rd features events led by Jaki McCarrick, Ellen Ryan (Girls Who Slay Monsters) in conversation with Sarah Moore Fitzgerald as well as Eavan Boland. Martina Durac, EBCF Artistic Director will be in conversation with local Clare author, Sean O’Driscoll about his book on the life and times of Rose Dugdale. The Debut authors event will showcase the work of Aingeala Flannery, Megan Nolan and Luke Cassidy in conversation with Pat Carty. Rounding off Friday’s events, EBCF is delighted to have four crime writing authors who are at the peak of their powers - Jane Casey, Håkan Nesser, Liz Nugent and Catherine Ryan Howard, in conversation with Declan Hughes.

On Saturday 4th, EBCF is delighted to welcome Kit de Waal, Róisín Ingle and Manchán Magan, Sarah Clancy, Aoibhín Garrihy and Marc O'Riain, Colm Liddy, Doireann Ní Ghríofa, Neil Hegarty, Lucy Caldwell, Olivia Fitzsimons and Michelle Gallen. The Saturday night author interview with novelist Tessa Hadley takes place in glór at 8.30pm.

The closing day of the festival sees Pat Dolan, editor of the extraordinary Ionbhá: The Empathy Book for Ireland, explore some of the reflections on empathy contained within the book. The Sunday Symposium takes to the stage at glór. Festival goers will move to The Old Ground for the Literary Lunch featuring Donal Ryan.

Ennis Book Club Festival, in association with Clare Library also features an extensive programme for younger readers, including the chance to participate in Fighting Words, a creative writing workshop for Secondary Schools with Colm Quearney; Stories of the Revolution with Flor McCarthy; Supernatural Stories for Teens with Aislinn O’Loughlin; Get Started Writing with Helena Close and Teen Health and Wellness with Colette O’Flynn, all taking place in Ennistymon and de Valera Libraries. Many events are now on sale with all events available from www.ennisbookclubfestival.com from January 27th

Road rises to meet Dermot Hayes as funds raised for memoir

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

THE memoir of well-known activist and Corofin native, Dermot Hayes, is set for publication shortly after a huge response to an online funding campaign organised by his friends.

‘The Road That Rises - Memoir of Boy from Kells’ will lift the lid on a life of campaigning and community action that has challenged establishment thinking over seven decades.

The book explores and documents Dermot’s life as a child growing up in Kells, Corofin and his life as an activist and campaigner in youth and community work, trade unionism, worker co-operatives, environmental causes, disability rights and the Independent Living Movement in Ireland.

Taking on the establishment is a key theme and there is widespread anticipation of this memoir from a key figure behind the campaigns for disabil-

ity rights in Clare, against the state’s plans for Mullaghmore and at the forefront of the push for equality legislation.

Over the years, he has founded, co-founded and headed organisations to

represent, campaign and progress rights for people with disabilities and this ongoing struggle remains a central part of his life.

Dermot has been astonished and grateful for the interest and assistance

from people across Clare, Ireland and even abroad,

“Many people had planted the seeds for my memoir. I had dreamt that small, individual contributions could make the book a reality but I’ve really

been taken aback by the encouragement. People have contributed sums from €5 upwards and this has been very uplifting.”

As well as those who organised and contributed to the publication fund, Dermot has gratefully acknowledged the roles played by his 12 siblings, his ghost writer Breda Shannon and the wide circle of friends, neighbours and fellow activists who have shared his journey.

Information on the fund launched by Friends of Dermot Hayes can be found at https://www.gofundme. com/f/help-dermot-hayespublish-and-launch-hismemoirs Any profits raised will be dedicated to local disability and community groups.

The Road that Rises will be published by the Limerick Writers’ Centre and will launched in St. Patrick’s Hall in Corofin in March with a great night of celebration planned to which all will be invited.

Changes needed at Clarecastle junction after woman injured ‘quite seriously’

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

AN assessment will be carried out of a "dangerous junction" in Clarcastle after a woman was knocked down and injured.

A meeting of the Ennis municipal district heard serious safety issues have arisen at the junction near Clarecastle church.

The meeting was told the village has outgrown its existing infrastructure due to busier traffic

flows and increased number of houses.

The meeting also heard that congestion could become a bigger problem in Clarecastle during site clearance work at the former Roche plant.

Councillors Paul Murphy (FG) and Tom O'Callaghan (FF) raised the issues of safety and traffic flow at the junction of Barrack Street, old Road, Church Drive and Creggaun Na Hilla.

Cllr Murphy proposed that a "road safety application is prepared and submitted as soon as possible seeking funding to improve safety at this location. This is a dangerous junction where three roads meet and there is the added complication of a carpark being adjacent to it also, a number of pedestrians have been knocked down and this needs to be given priority urgently".

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Murphy said, "I brought this up due to an increased frequency of mishaps or accidents at this junction. The most recent being in December where a lady got knocked down and was injured quite seriously. It does highlight how serious it is. It's a case of a how a village has outgrown its existing infrastructure",

He continued "That junction has been there for a long number of years and the village was small for a long time as well. Church Drive and Clarehill would have been the only two estates feeding onto it.

“You have far more traffic coming onto that junction. It is where all that traffic coming towards Ennis is coming through. It's a busy spot for pedestrians. You have kids coming down from school".

Cllr Tom O'Callaghan supported the call for the area to be assessed.

"There is congestion there. You could have a funeral from the church, school runs and now we are talking about Roche and the work that will be commencing there very shortly. It definitely warrants investigation. We did have in incident in the village and it was brought to my attention recently", he said.

Cllr Ann Norton (Ind) said, "We all have to put safety as a priority. I think it is important that an investigation is done to ensure people feel safe in their own community. Whatever we can do to support local people and prevent accidents, it's very important".

Please note that some events are limited capacity, early booking advised. See www.ennisbookclubfestival.com. lClarecastle

“But over the last 30, 20 years we now have upwards of 220 houses in Creggaun Na Hilla, you have 50 houses in Primrose Gardens, 50 more between Orchard Drive and Beechwood and you have the outward growth of the village.

In reply to the issue, Conor McDonagh, executive engineer, with the council's road design section, stated, "Road design will carry out an assessment of the relevant junction and thereafter make a determination on what safety measure / intervention is appropriate at this location".

lACTIVIST: Dermot Hayes and his ghost writer Breda Shannon

Community Grant schemes launched

Clare County Council has launched two grant schemes aimed at providing funding opportunities to community groups and local organisations throughout County Clare. The Council’s Local Area Grant Scheme 2023, together with the Community Support Fund 2022, will see a combined funding of €728,325 allocated to the county. Applications for the Local Area Grant Scheme are being invited under nine separate grant support categories. The Community Support Fund is open to groups and organisations in County Clare seeking assistance towards their energy/ operating costs, and capital funding towards repairs and improvements to their facilities. There is also a support fund for Women’s Shed groups. In order to support community groups/ organisations who may wish to apply for either funding scheme, the following walk-in information clinics will be held today (Thursday, January 19) at: Treacy’s Oakwood Arms Hotel, Shannon from 10.00am to 1.00pm; Buttermarket Civic Room, Ennis, from 10.00am to 1.00pm; Kilrush Hub, Kilrush from 2.00pm to 5.00pm and Lissycasey Community Hall, Lissycasey from 2.00pm to 5.00pm. Pictured at Áras Contae an Chláir for the launch of the grant schemes were (l-r): Paul Patton, Chairperson of the Local Community Development Committee (LCDC); Kathy Coleman, Rural Development Directorate, Clare County Council; Brendan Boyce, Rural Development Directorate, Clare County Council; Cllr Tony O’Brien, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council; Leonard Cleary, Director of Rural Development, Clare County Council; Bernadette Haugh, Chief Officer, Clare LCDC; and Cllr PJ Ryan, Chairperson of the Working Group for the Action Plan for Rural Ireland

Patients ‘relieved’ after dental exam

Dentist Jacqueline O’Brien aims to put even the most nervous of patients at ease

SO HERE we are, in the second half of January 2023.

This may be of significance to you if you have made of list of things that you would like to accomplish this year. The year has now started, normal service has resumed and you might occasionally glance back at that list that you made over the Christmas break.

Some tasks might have been completed by now (that's pretty impressive!), some might be in motion and others have yet to be tackled. You may or may not be interested in having ‘New Year's Resolutions', or as I prefer to call it-goal setting. However, for many people, there is one job that often gets put to the bottom of the to-do-list and that is-going to the dentist.

There are many reasons for this. Often, this is not deemed to be a priority as the person is not in any pain or if there is a little niggle, it is just that - a little niggle and nothing more. It can wait. Life moves on. We forget.

Other times, there is different a reason that this dental visit is being put off. The person may be nervous about attending the dentist. They have had a bad experience previously and for this reason they are avoiding attending for regular dental check-ups. The issue here is that we are missing potential opportunities to intervene and perform preventative dental care and give advice that can drastically improve the oral health of this person.

The knock-on effect of not taking a preventative approach to dental care and indeed maintaining oral health, can lead to more extensive dental treatment being required. So for the patient who is already nervous about having any dental treatment completed, their situation becomes more overwhelming as they may now require more dental care. As the saying goes - ‘a stitch in time, saves nine'. This is true in so many aspects of our lives. Our dental health is no different.

Of course there are many other reasons for not attending your dentist regularly. Financial considerations, time off work/school, childcare, transport to and from appointments, the list goes on. Nevertheless, the importance of prioritising your dental health cannot be overstated. By maintaining your dental health, you

will ultimately require less treatment, hence saving money.

You will need less time off work to attend appointments and you will have less unplanned time off work and school due to fewer episodes of dental pain and emergencies. Good dental health also ties in with good overall health. The links between periodontal (gum) disease and cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, dementia and respiratory disease are all well established.

So, you have decided that now is the time to be proactive and get that dental appointment in the diary. If you are nervous about attending your dental appointment, it is a good idea to let the receptionist know this at the time of making your booking. When you do attend the practice, it is advisable to come in early, give yourself a few minutes to relax and settle, use the bathroom if necessary and complete any paperwork that may be required.

When assessing a new patient, I like to have a chat with them first of all and go through their history and find out where the anxiety in relation to dental treatment is coming from. It is useful to establish this information and to discuss ways that I can help to alleviate any aspects of the treatment that the patient is anxious about. I encourage an open approach where the patient can let me know how they are getting on during the appointment.

Completing the dental exam can often be a huge milestone for a patient who is anxious regarding dental treatment. It is their first step towards moving forward and achieving good dental health. Patients are typically relieved after they have had their dental exam and often things are not as bad as they had anticipated. We then work on making a treatment plan and discussing the sequence of any treatment that may be required. Bit by bit, the work is completed.

The journey of a thousand miles really does begin with one step. If you have been putting off making an appointment to get your teeth checked, make that call and get the ball rolling. Make this your year where you get back into good habits regarding your oral health. Call 061-413263 or email info@obdental.ie for more information.

Photo by Eamon Ward

GREEN CLARE

West of Ireland ‘must not lose out in offshore wind development’

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

FIANNA Fáil Senator Timmy Dooley has said the West of Ireland must not lose out in offshore wind development.

He expressed fears that the High-Level Offshore Wind Phase 2 Policy Statement due imminently will discriminate against the West of Ireland by giving priority to projects in the East and South of the country.

Viable floating offshore wind projects off the West coast masy not be permitted to apply for maritime area

consents until a later stage of phase 2, with projects off the East and South coasts of the country being prioritised.

Senator Dooley said, “If this decision goes ahead it would be a disaster for offshore wind energy on the West coast of Ireland. There is huge interest from investors in offshore wind projects off the West and we must not miss this opportunity.

“This decision, if taken, will send a message that offshore wind development is off limits in the West of Ireland. We have a huge op-

portunity now to develop and invest in offshore wind energy in Ireland. No region should be given preference over another and we need to be ambitious in developing offshore wind all around the coast of Ireland. I’m regularly speaking with and hearing from developers and investors in the area and we must harness that expertise and potential to drive this industry forward in the West of Ireland. We have a real chance of becoming a world leader in this space and we can’t afford to lack ambition.”

Climate Ready Academy to host open session for Clare businesses on sustainability

THE Climate Ready Academy is hosting an open session for businesses in Ireland interested in upskilling in the areas of sustainability and climate action in 2023.

The Climate Ready Academy, an enterprise initiative of Skillnet Ireland, provides businesses with the necessary resources and training to transition their businesses to a more sustainable footing. In 2022 alone, the Climate Ready Academy worked with more than 1,650 businesses across Ireland.

To give businesses an insight into the type of courses and training available, the Climate Ready Academy is providing a free open session on the topics of sustainability management, biodiversity, waste and the circular economy. The online event, hosted by broadcaster Ella McSweeney, will take place on Wednesday, 27th January between

1:00pm and 2:00pm and is open to businesses of all sizes and across all sectors.

The open session will provide an introduction to the following available courses, as well as the expert mentors delivering the programmes, including: Waste and Circular Economy Leaders Programme, hosted by Gerard Higgins; Sustainability Leaders programme, hosted by Angus Mitchell; Biodiversity Essentials Programme, hosted by Anja Murray; Energy Leaders Programme, hosted by Richard Morrison and the Transport Leaders Programme, hosted by Raoul Empey.

Further details on available courses and resources can be found on the Climate Ready Academy website: https://www.climatereadyacademy.ie/masterclasses/

DISPOSE OF YOUR CIGARETTE BUTTS RESPONSIBLY!

OF YOUR CIGARETTE BUTTS RESPONSIBLY!

FIFTY EIGHT PERCENT of all litter in Clare comes from cigarette litter

Cigarettes are PLASTIC BASED and do not biodegrade in the natural environment

It can take up to 10 YEARS for a cigarette butt to breakdown in the ocean

HARMFUL CHEMICALS from cigarettes pollutes soils and waters

Tossed cigarettes can CAUSE FIRES

Plastics, micro plastics and chemicals from cigarette butts are HARMFUL TO WILDLIFE on land and in water

Cigarette butts ENTER DRAINS and from there make their way into our streams, rivers, beaches and oceans

lOffshore wind farm

Key role for Carrigaholt in offshore energy boom

by Ronan Judge news@clareecho.ie

CARRIGAHOLT pier should be a key part in the development of offshore wind energy projects in Clare, a meeting has heard.

Clare County Council has been urged to request promoters of offshore wind energy projects to open a service depot in the area.

The call came from Gabriel Keating (FG) who says Carrigaholt is a “practical and convenient location”.

At a meeting of the west Clare MD, Cllr Keating said a locally based depot and office would be important for communities in west Clare.

“By having an office in Kilrush, we would need a support service depot in west Clare. I am proposing Carrigaholt pier. That would include storage equipment, service

equipment and to accommodate deliveries. I think we have an opportunity here like never before, Cllr Keating said.

John O’Malley, acting senior executive officer of the west Clare MD stated that the west Clare MD and other departments of Clare County Council have been in discussions with various operators involving offshore wind energy who are currently considering areas off the west coast.

He continued, “The development of piers such as Carrigaholt are part of these ongoing discussions. These projects are at an early stage and the main focus currently is around investigation / survey works.

“Clare County Council will continue to work with the companies involved to ensure that the oppor-

tunities for areas throughout west Clare are realised to the greatest benefit for these areas and that any infrastructural works that may be required as part of this are planned for”.

Cllr PJ Kelly said it was a very intelligent proposal.

“A project will take place offshore. The question of when we cannot answer. But if there is to be a depot it is important we have it in Clare. Carrigaholt is ready made. It would add life, not alone to Carrigaholt but all of west Clare”, he added.

Cllr Ian Lynch (Ind) told the meeting a number of proposals are being explored for Carrigaholt pier.

lCarrigaholt

From gardening to meditation –further education for all the community

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

ONLINE SINGING CLASSES were a major hit with people in Clare during the Covid year. It’s just one of the many courses at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board’s College of FET that focusses on personal development.

Further Education and Training (FET) is intrinsically linked to furthering career prospects or moving into higher education, however Triona Lynch, FET Manager for Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, tells The Clare Echo that it’s so much more than that. Whether it’s gardening, mindfulness & meditation, bread making or knitting, the ETB offers multiple courses which assist people in health & wellbeing and their own personal development.

Further Education and Training in Clare is in rude health and the ETB boasts a number of campuses in the county, including in Ennis, Kilrush, Scariff, Miltown Malbay, and two campuses in Shannon, offering a wide variety of courses to meet the needs of the community from a personal development perspective through to an employment perspective.

“We would have a large offering across non-accredited provision up to QQI Level 6 on the National Framework of Qualifications, along with traineeships and apprenticeships,” Triona tells The Clare Echo. “We offer a

wide number of courses in relation to health and wellbeing such as horticulture, cookery courses, and personal development courses.”

“Employment focus is very much part of what we do but we’re not just employment focussed. When you look at personal development it’s about where the person is at or where they want to be. Some people join courses for their own personal development, so I might decide to join an arts & crafts course because I have an interest in arts & craft and I want to maybe explore different media of arts & crafts. Alternatively, I might want to go to college to study Art, Craft & Design, or maybe I’m thinking of setting up a little business that I know graphic design is part of and I want to develop that skill.”

Health and wellbeing courses have been offered by Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board for years and the organisation has delivered courses in conjunction with a number of ‘community partners’. “We work with community groups across Limerick and Clare where any community group can register to become a partner with us, and look for tuition hours in whatever area they want,” explains Triona. “For example, you could be an active age group and want to do some training on cookery or healthy meals for one. Once they register as a partner and meet the organisational requirements, they can then apply to us for tuition hours and we can deliver the course for them.”

Triona reveals that singing online “was re-

ally popular during Covid”. “Creative writing is another one which is really popular. Tasty cooking, cooking on a budget, family cooking, yoga. People just want to meet each other and learn something new and have choices around how they manage that learning. So we really do have that focus; the wider benefits of learning would be really important whether people join courses to move into employment or higher education or whether they join for personal reasons which they explore through the wider benefits of learning.”

Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board reach all demographics from ages 16 and up, with courses varying from one day (Safe Pass), up to three years for apprenticeships. “Most of our courses are free and fully funded, sometimes there is a training allowance associated with them, if people are on social welfare payments they can move over to a training allowance and we would link in with the Department of Social Protection to support people to transition into courses that would be employment focussed.”

Courses are on offer all year round and there is an advice and guidance service for people considering their education and training options. If you would like support with choosing a course Freephone 1800 70 70 77 or drop in to your local campus. To begin your Further Education and Training journey, visit https://collegeoffet.ie/.

Healthy Clare launches its first health and wellbeing calendar

THE CLARE LOCAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE’s (LCDC) Healthy Clare team, based in the Rural and Community Development Directorate at Clare County Council, have created a Healthy Clare 2023 Calendar.

The theme of ‘health and wellbeing’ flows through each month by highlighting:

• National and international health awareness dates;

• Tips on ways of ‘keeping active’, ‘switching off and being creative’, ‘minding your body’, ‘minding your mood’ and ‘eating well’ in 2023; and

• Signposting to health and wellbeing supports and services.

The calendar was created in partnership with Clare Sports Partnership and Clare County Council’s Visit Clare, Creative Ireland and Clare Libraries teams.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien, said: “A healthy population is a major asset for society, and improving health and wellbeing in Clare is a priority.” The Cathaoirleach expressed his appreciation at the “potential impact the first Healthy Clare Calendar initiative has across the county, acting as a nudge to adopting healthier habits”.

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council, explained that the LCDC’s Healthy Clare initiative is “a collective response to the risks that threaten Clare’s future health and wellbeing”. Mr Dowling acknowledged “the Department of Health’s Healthy Ireland funding stream in Clare as an important resource, facilitating and supporting community health and wellbeing projects across the county”.

“We are all striving for a healthier place to grow, live, work and play and with that I am encouraging everyone to pick up a healthy habit and a Healthy Clare Calendar this year,” added Mr Dowling.

Bernadette Haugh, Chief Officer of the LCDC, said: “The LCDC members fully support the health and wellbeing agenda of Healthy Ireland. The LCDC’s continued support of the

Healthy Clare initiative since its launch in 2019 demonstrates their commitment to the importance of positive health and wellbeing in Clare.” Ms Haugh described how “the beautiful pictures captured each month in this calendar prompt us to get healthy, get outside and get exploring Clare’s offerings in nature, the Burren, Clare beaches, tourism sites and Clare li-

braries”.

To view the Healthy Clare Calendar online please visit Clare County Council’s dedicated webpage at www. clarecoco.ie/services/community/healthy-clare/ or email healthyclare@clarecoco.ie for a hard copy.

Thought

for the week: A servant friend

Spreading the word of positivity

le

Ó CONAOLA Macalla an Chláir

MACDARA

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

Irish classes starting soon

Dia dhaoibh a Chairde!

Just in time for the most Irish of celebrations, Féile i mBolg/Lá Fhéile Bríde, An Clár as Gaeilge will commence fun Irish classes in Cois na hAbhna at 7pm, Monday January 30th. You will have the choice in this 8-week programme to do a beginners/entry level course, or an intermediate/ improvers course. Join our wonderful múinteoirí, Tadhg agus Stephanie, and let the spraoi begin! To reserve a place and register, please contact us at: Fón: 065-6864474 or e-mail/r-phost: anclarasgaeilge@gmail.com.

Follow us on Facebook, Mastodon, Twitter, agus Instagram - @ClárAsGaeilge. Gaeilge is for all of us to enjoy! Until next week, tóg go réidh é!

Beidh

ranganna

Gaeilge spraíúla ag tosaigh go gearr

DIA dhaoibh. Tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh uilig go maith agus ag súil le laethanta breátha an earraigh. Déanaigí cinnte dhuil ag breathnú ar an scannán ‘’An Cailín Ciúin’’ i nGlór Dé Céadaoin seo chugainn, an 25ú lá d’Eanáir ag a hocht a chlog.

Ní i gcónaí a bhíonn scannán d’ard-chaighdeán i nGaeilge le

Imeachtaí/Events:

feiceáil ar an scáileán mór. Beidh ranganna Gaeilge ag tosaigh i gCois na hAbhna ar an 30ú lá d’Eanáir. Scaipigí an scéal! Agus ná déanaigí dearmad a dhuil ag ‘’Rith le Ruairí’’ chuile Dé Máirt. Tosaíonn an sodar ag siopa Local Motion ar Shráid Uí Chonaill ag 18:30. Go dtí an tseachtain seo chugainn, tógaigí go réidh é!

• Scéalaíocht do pháistí / Story time i nGaeilge le MacDara, Dé Máirt, 20ú Eanáir/January, Leabharlann De Valera, Inis, 15.15 – 15.45, 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 6.30pm, ag Local Motion, Inis.

• Ciorcal Comhrá, chuile Dé Céadaoin agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, Inis, 11am-12pm

• Scéalta agus Rannta le Chéile, chuile Dé Céadaoin i Leabharlann Shráid na Cathrach ó 10.30 – 11am, Saor in aisce / Free of charge

• “An Cailín Ciúin’’, 25ú Eanáir, 8pm i nGlór, Inis.

Gluais/Glossary

RONAN SCULLY

IT CAN be very difficult to invite others into the messy, private worlds we sometimes inhabit. It often seems like we no longer live in the proverbial “village” where people come together to help each other.

FRIENDSHIP IS A GIFT

As a friend I can’t give solutions to all of life’s problems, doubts, or fears. But I can listen to you, and together we will search for an answer. I can’t change your past with all its heartache and pain, or the future with its untold stories. But I can be there now when you need me to care. I can’t keep your feet from stumbling. I can only offer my hand that you may grasp it and not fall. Your joys, triumphs, successes, and happiness are not mine. Yet, I can share in your laughter. Your decisions in life are not mine to make, nor to judge. I can only support you, encourage you, and help you when you ask. I can’t prevent you from falling away from friendship, from your values, from me. I can only pray for you, talk to you and wait for you. I can’t give you boundaries, which I have determined

for you. But I can give you the room to change, room to grow, room to be yourself.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, look around you and truly cherish those special people and friends that are part of your life and always remember that friendship can be a true place of refuge and is one of life’s most wonderful blessings. Let me finish this thought with a prayer I say for my friends, “I will pray for you, my friend. I will name you in my heart before God and ask all His blessing be upon you. I will be concerned for your rising and your daily mood. I will be sympathetic to your personal needs and desires in each day of your life. I will wish you well in your learning, or your work, in your domestic round and your leisure. I will think of you at the close of each day and pray that God’s peace be with you. If you have been especially kind or helpful to me then I will make my gratitude known to you. If you are in trouble or difficulty of any kind, or simply tired and worn down, I will do all and anything I can to lift your spirits. I will ache for you in your sorrows and disasters and rejoice with you in your joys and triumphs. I will love

and care for you as I love and care for myself. Amen”

So always remember that a friend is someone who walks in when the whole world has walked away. Be thankful and cherish those true friends that are part of your life and understand that we all need help and support now and then. Please remember that Friendship is one of the most beautiful, most powerful, and most valuable treasures in life. It is your true wealth. A song that I listen to regularly is , ‘The Servant Song’ but instead of using the word Servant I replace it sometimes with the word Friend and it reminds me to always pray and be thankful for the gift of friendship in my life. Here is my friendship prayer for you. “I pray that each of you who read this article each week will have or find a special forever friend; Someone who changes your life just by being part of it. Someone who can make you laugh until you can’t stop; Someone who can make you believe that there really is good in the world. Someone that when you’re down, and the world seems dark and empty, will lift you up in spirit and make that dark and empty world suddenly seem bright and full. Someone who will help get you through the hard times, the sad times, and the confused

times. I pray that you will find a Forever Friend. A forever friend that will hold your hand and tell you that everything is going to be okay. I hope that all of you who already have found such a friend in their life, feel happy and complete, because you need not worry. You have found a forever friend for life, and forever has no end. Cherish them always! As the “Servant Song” (or as I like to call it my “Friend Song”) goes“Will you let me be your friend? Let me be as Christ to you. Pray that I may have the grace, To let you be my friend too. We are pilgrims on a journey. Fellow travelers on the road. We are here to help each other. Walk the mile and bear the load. I will hold the Christ-light for you. In the nighttime of your fear. I will hold my hand out to you. Speak the peace you long to hear. I will weep when you are weeping. When you laugh, I’ll laugh with you. I will share your joy and sorrow. Till we’ve seen this journey through. When we sing to God in heaven. We will find such harmony. Born of all we’ve known together, Of Christ’s love and agony. Will you let me be your friend? Let me be as Christ to you. Pray that I may have the grace To let you be my friend too. Amen”

January comfort food: Turkey Schnitzel

STEPHEN KEARNEY RECIPES

ONE of my favourite comfort foods is Schnitzel. Thinly sliced meat covered in breadcrumbs and flashfried. What’s not to love? I am using turkey as the protein in this recipe but pork fillet would be the traditional meat used. Chicken fillets also work well. As usual I will fire an instructional video up on the auld Instagram if you want to see how I cook this, just search @kearneycooks.

YOU WILL NEED

• 1 turkey breast cut in three slices

• 2 large eggs

• 50g plain flour

• 80g dried white breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs work best

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves

• 250ml vegetable oil

• 1 tsp paprika

• tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper to season the turkey slices

Step 1

Place your turkey slices between two sheets of clingfilm and smash the bejaysus out of it with a rolling pin until it is about half a cm thick. Remove the clingfilm and then prepare the other fillets in the same way.

Step 2

Put the flour and spices into a

bowl, beat the eggs in another bowl, and finally in a third bowl mix the breadcrumbs and thyme. Take a slice of turkey and dredge it in flour, then dip it in the egg, and then lob it into the breadcrumb mixture until it is completely coated. Do the same with all three turkey slices.

Step 3

Heat the oil in a large frying pan to a medium to high heat. Add a schnitzel to the pan and fry for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the turkey is thoroughly cooked. The breadcrumbs should be a lovely golden brown colour. When they are finished dry them out on a plate lined with kitchen paper.

Step 4

I like to serve these with a green salad and some pickled onion, but honestly schnitzel goes great with chips, spuds, veggies or as the filling in an awesome sandwich. This also goes amazingly with beer.

• uilig – all

• laethanta breátha an earraigh – the fine days of spring

• Déanaigí cinnte – Be sure to (to more than one person)

• Ní i gcónaí a bhíonn – It’s not always that • d’ard-chaighdeán – of high-quality

ar an scáileán mór – on the big screen

ag tosaigh –

l MÚINTEOIRÍ: Stephanie agus Tadhg

PRSA rule change presents business owners with huge opportunity

by Darach Honan RECENT CHANGES TO PENSION leg -

islation in Ireland offers a huge opportunity to business owners to fund their pensions and extract cash from their business in a tax efficient manner.

Previously, companies were limited in how much they could contribute to an employee’s pension by age related limits, service and salary.

If a company made a contribution to an employees PRSA which exceeded these age related limits, the employee would be liable for BIK.

The new rules now allow companies to contribute as much as they want to an employees PRSA without taking limits, service or salary into account.

This offers a massive opportunity to business owners who wish to fund pensions for themselves, their spouse, or children.

Tax relief on all employer PRSA contributions can be claimed in the accounting period in which it is paid. Under previous legislation, tax relief for ‘special contributions’ to pension would have to be spread forward over five years.

Employees will still need to consider the overall standard fund threshold of €2 million. When pension assets exceed this

amount and are accessed, they face a punitive tax rate of 71%.

However, if an individual holds a PRSA to the value of €4 million. They can split this fund into two. They can then access one PRSA and use it to fund their lifestyle in retirement, while leaving the second fund untouched, growing tax free, as an inheritance for their estate.

PRSAs were overlooked in recent years in favour of executive pension plans or occupational pension schemes. This was because the PRSA offering was not as attractive. However, with this recent tweak, many business owners will utilise the PRSA to extract cash from their business in a tax efficient manner. Further good news is that the company can contribute to both an occupational pension and a PRSA for an employee.

Self Employed Sole Traders or Partnerships can pay a BIK free employer PRSA contribution for an employee and this can include adult children (over 18) who can be put onto payroll. The contribution to a Revenue approved pension, such as a PRSA, is not subject to CAT even where there is a family relationship between the parties. Therefore, contributions can be made to a child’s pension, if they are employment and over 18, without impacting the CAT A exempt amounts.

ARE THE PENSION EXPERTS

Understanding different pension schemes

Understanding your pension – do I really need one?

Most people’s eyes glaze over if the topic of pensions is raised! However, with Blue Monday this week many of us may have allowed our mind to drift to thoughts of early retirement and warm beaches!

Saving for retirement is extremely important. People are living longer and leading more active lives in retirement. As a result, it is more important than ever for you to think about where your income will come from when you retire. Pension saving is one of the few areas where you can still get tax relief. Unfortunately, only about half of the people working in Ireland are members of pension arrangements.

What is a defined benefit (DB) pension scheme?

A DB pension, or sometimes know as final salary pension, is a special type of workplace pension. Instead of building up a pension pot over time, it provides you with a guaranteed annual income for life, based on your final or average salary (hence the name).

DB pensions are most often provided by the public sector (health, education etc) and government employers. Some private sector employers do still offer them, however. Historically they have been seen as a very attractive kind of pension.

How does a DB pension work?

When you are a member of a DB / final salary pension scheme, your employer pays into a central fund on your behalf (unless your scheme is directly funded by the taxpayer). The scheme will assign you a ‘normal retirement age’, and your pension will be paid from this date. The amount you’re paid will depend on a number of factors.

What are the advantages of a defined

benefit pension?

DB pensions are often seen as more generous, because it would take an above-average defined contribution (DC) pot to be able to buy an annuity that pays you the same amount as a DB scheme.

What’s more, the payouts from a DB pension are guaranteed for the rest of your life. So long as the pension scheme

ary schemes). Also, this kind of pension cannot be inherited by your beneficiaries. If you die prematurely, there may be a widow’s pension for your spouse, but most of the benefits will be lost, and nothing passes to your children.

If you have a defined benefit (DB) pension, you may be offered the option to transfer it into the more common type of pension (defined contribution). This is a big decision and an irreversible one, so it’s important to understand exactly what this means, and what the pros and cons for you might be.

What is a Defined Contribution (DC) Pension scheme?

In a defined contribution scheme your employee contribution and the contribution paid by your employer are usually fixed as a percentage of salary. The contributions will be invested in a fund in order to provide your retirement benefits. DC schemes do not provide any guarantees, your benefits at retirement will depend on a number of different factors including contribution levels, fund performance, plan charges and the annuity rates available when you retire.

The most important point from this article is make sure you have a pension! It is never too late to start, and any small amount starting you off is better than not starting a pension. Check out the Pension Authority website for more details.

www.pensionsauthority.ie

itself remains funded, your pension income will be paid no matter how long you live.

What are the drawbacks of a defined benefit pension?

Despite the attractions of a DB pension, in some ways it is not as flexible as a DC pension pot. You can’t vary the income you take from it, nor draw out larger lump sums (apart from the taxfree lump sum offered by some final sal-

Carey Corbett Financial Services are experts on personal and commercial insurance, pensions, investments, mortgages, protection and financial planning. Call Tommy or Donal @ 065689 3540 or email info@careycorbett. com

4

in 10 older people having to make significant financial cutbacks to make ends meet

ALMOST four out of every 10 older people in Ireland are having to make significant financial cutbacks in their standard of living to make ends meet.

Findings of Behaviour and Attitudes research from Spry Finance found that of 301 homeowners aged over-60, 32 per cent said they were having to make significant cutbacks to make ends meet, six per cent described themselves as ‘stretched’ and having to make very significant cutbacks, and one per cent said they were financially ‘stressed’ because they couldn’t make ends meet and were having to cutback on essentials.

Just 17 per cent of respondents said they were ‘very comfortable’ financially and able to afford everything they needed, with 44 per cent stating they were ‘quite comfortable’ and were getting by but making a few minor cut-

backs.

The research also found that 30 per cent of over-60s considered themselves either quite or very unprepared for the financial demands of later life, with 70 per cent stating they were quite or well prepared.

Ailish McGlew, Head of Marketing and Communications at Spry Finance, said: “Many people who are over-60 still feel young and are excited living life to the full – but they tend to be poorly served by lenders when it comes to accessing credit or realising value from their assets such as their home, in order to afford the things they want to do.”

“As a result, we see that one out of every four older people is making significant cutbacks in their standard of living.”

Consider writing a will

A WILL is a written, legal document that sets out what you would like to happen to your property on your death. It must be properly signed and witnessed in order to be legally recognised.

SHOULD I MAKE A WILL?

It is important for you and your family that you consider carefully what will happen your property when you have passed away. You should most definitely make a Will if:-

• If you want to leave your estate in a way different to the Intestacy Rules under the Law of Succession

• If you own any property (house or land)

• If you have children under 18

• If you have children with a disability

• If your estate is valuable to the extent that your beneficiaries are likely to incur inheritance tax

• If you want to make things easier for those you leave behind, in sorting your affairs after your death

• If you have married since you made your last Will (as that Will is no longer valid).

WHY HAPPENS IF I DON’T MAKE A WILL

If you die without leaving a valid Will, then you are deemed to have died ‘intestate’, and your estate will be distributed in accordance with Intestacy Rules under the ‘Law of Succession’. Here are the legal rules about what automatic rights other people have to inherit from you in such circumstances;

If you are survived by;

• A spouse (or civil partner) but no children (or grandchildren): your spouse (or civil partner) gets your entire estate.

• A spouse (or civil partner) and children: your spouse (or civil partner) inherits two-

thirds of your estate, and the remaining onethird is divided equally among your children. If one of your children has died before you, their share goes to their children (your grandchildren).

• Children, but no spouse or civil partner: your estate is divided equally among your children (or, their children).

• Parents, but no spouse, civil partner or children: your estate is divided equally between your surviving parent(s).

• Brothers and sisters only: your estate is shared equally among them (with the children of any deceased sibling taking their deceased parent’s share).

• Nieces and nephews only: your estate is divided equally among those surviving.

• Other relatives only: your estate is divided equally between the nearest equal relations.

• No relatives: your estate goes to the State. There can be tax implications for those inheriting property and there are some tax reliefs that may be availed of with careful planning. Obtaining professional legal and taxation advices will help you understand all implications for your family and intended beneficiaries of your estate, so that you can make the best and most suited decisions to your personal and family circumstances.

If you would like more information on making a Will, visit our website www. cashinclancy.ie or if you would like to make a Will or change your Will, you can contact us on 065 6840060 or email enquiries@cashinclancy.ie to arrange an appointment.

Regional Education and Language Teams (REALT)

REALT CO-ORDINATOR

Limerick and Clare

One-year Fixed Term Contract

SCHOOL ESOL/ SUPPORT OFFICER –Limerick and Clare

One-year Fixed Term Contract

Ref. No. 013002

Airmid nominated for Guaranteed Irish award

–

Applications are invited for the above posts. Whilst we are advertising two separate posts, following interview there may be an opportunity to combine elements from both roles. Terms and conditions of both roles are aligned to the Grade 7 Administrative Officer. Online application form and further details are available on www.lcetb.ie/recruitment

Closing time and date for receipt of applications is 12 noon on Friday, 27th January 2023.

Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Canvassing will disqualify.

Airmid Natural Handmade Skincare have been nominated in the Beauty & Fash-

ion category at the second annual Guaranteed Irish Business Awards

The Awards ceremony will take place on Tuesday March 14th at The Shelbourne Hotel and will celebrate Ireland’s leading businesses that support jobs, are committed to local communities, and contribute to Ireland, its people, and its economy.

MC’d by business broadcaster Anton Savage, the second annual Guaranteed Irish Business Awards will recognise and reward the success and resilience of both homegrown and multinational businesses across various sector categories.

An independent panel of distinguished industry leaders from names including Matheson, BioPharmaChem, 30% Club, Viatel, FBD Insurance, IDA Ireland, Bord Bia, Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI), and

Design & Crafts Council Ireland (DCCI) had the tough task of shortlisting a total of 122 finalists after whittling down hundreds of entries.

Brid O’Connell CEO Guaranteed Irish said, “The calibre of entries for this year’s awards was remarkable. We look forward to celebrating the incredible contribution Guaranteed Irish businesses make to Ireland and international markets, with the continued support of proud title sponsors of the Awards Permanent TSB for a second consecutive year. Congratulations to all of our finalists.”

Patrick Farrell, Director of Retail Banking at Permanent TSB said, “Permanent TSB is proud to support the Guaranteed Irish Business Awards, celebrating the very best in Irish business.”

Tax bill fears driving de-zoning requests

PANEL FOR BEACH LIFEGUARDS & SENIOR BEACH LIFEGUARDS –SUMMER SEASON 2023

CONCERN over potential tax bills is driving an increase in requests to have land de-zoned which could have a detrimental effect on housing in Clare, a meeting has heard, writes Ronan Judge.

the county".

Shannon Golf Club Invitation to Tender

Shannon Golf Club

Applications are invited from suitably qualified persons for inclusion on a Panel for employment as Beach Lifeguards & Senior Beach Lifeguards for the 2023 Bathing season.

Age Limit: Not less than 18 years of age on commencement of employment.

Qualifications: Current Water Safety Ireland, National Beach Lifeguard Award or equivalent as recognised by the International Lifesaving Federation (ILS).

All candidates will be required to undergo a practical test in Basic Life Support (BLS), swimming ability, lifesaving techniques and a theory test conducted by an Examiner(s) nominated by Water Safety Ireland. The Garda Vetting process will be carried out in respect of all applicants.

Expressions of interest should be sent to info@shannongolfclub.ie by Tuesday, 14th February 2023.

All relevant information must be included on application form to ensure appropriate marks are awarded. Certificates in respect of qualifications/training other than those listed on the Application Form should not be submitted as no additional marks will be awarded. 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 Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 16th February 2023.

The January meeting of Clare County Council heard "serious controversy" will erupt when landowners start receiving bills from Revenue for unused zoned land. The residential zoned land tax is an annual tax, calculated at 3% of the market value of land within its scope. From 2024 it will be charged each year on land that is zoned for residential use and has access to necessary services such as water supply, roads and lighting.

The tax is aimed at activating land zoned for residential housing development.

In a motion to the meeting, councillor PJ Ryan (Ind) asked that the council "request the Minister for Finance put in place a derogation for a fixed period on the tax being placed on residential zoned land".

Cllr Ryan said this is because there is a "very high number of people requesting de-zoning and this is going to have a detrimental effect on the provision of housing in

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Ryan said, "A tax has been put on zoned land that has not been used. There are people who are not aware of the position with zoned land and they are requesting their land to be de-zoned. I think we going to end up in a situation where there is very little zoned residential land in certain areas, which is going to create a problem for housing in County Clare".

The call for a derogation was backed by Cllr Pat O'Gorman (FF), who said, "I've had a lot of people who have had land zoned, on to me, asking the question about tax on their land. A lot of these would be small farmers who have land near towns and villages".

Cllr Shane Talty (FF) said, "I think this is going to blow up into a serious controversy when these revenue letters arrive".

The council is currently preparing its draft county development plan for 2023-2030. Councillors agreed to a suggestion from Pat Dowling, CEO of Clare County Council, to defer a decision on the derogation request until the completion of the development plan process.

We are inviting tenders for the provision of a Restaurant Service at the vibrant Shannon Golf Club.

2023.

lAirmid

Aston Eco bridge the gap between communities and big projects

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

A CARRIGAHOLT engineer is central to an unlikely business success story for rural West Clare, which has put Loop Head at the coalface of numerous international developments.

John Aston heads up Aston Eco, an engineering company which bridges the partnership gap between big infrastructural proponents and project host communities when developments such as wind turbine developments, roads or gas pipelines are being planned.

Explaining the concept behind Aston Eco, John tells TheClareEcho, “Developers tend to control all the decisions and we don’t go out into communities until everything is decided, so we haven’t given communities a chance to be involved and influence the design of a project and what tends to happen is not all the information is on the table when the decisions are taken.

“An engineer or politician tends to call people who are concerned about projects NIMBYs – not in my back yard. The reality is, they are NIMBYs maybe but they’re not involved in decisions that can impact their life due to the decisions we make.”

John stresses that Aston Eco was set up to create a design office “in the community”. “If you look at for example Loop Head, there’s going to be lots of offshore wind projects here in the future, how is that going to help the likes of Loop Head, or Kilrush, or even Ennis.

“It’s really a case of, how do you really understand what’s important to a community and how do you design a project that’s really beneficial to them long-term, and beneficial to the investor. Getting

community members meeting the people who care about the project at an early stage and getting to know each other over a cup of coffee, that’s when you get to amazing designs for projects,” says John, a Donegal native who moved to West Clare as a teenager where his father worked as a fisherman.

It was while working as Vice President for a company which was developing the largest gold mine in Europe in Transylvania, Romania, that John learned how integral a role local communities should play in the design process.

each time we meet them they’re shouting at us but if we actually sit down and listen to them, they’ve got some fantastic ideas which could easily become part of the design brief for projects.”

Aston Eco was born in 2014 and Carrigaholt has played a vital role in facilitating projects since then. As well as designing projects internationally and in the community (Aston is currently working on the Loop Head Regional Strategy www.loopheadprojects.ie), the team of four at Aston Eco provide management training.

Office, Clare with helping to facilitate the success of a company which deals in a fast-paced environments from their hub in West Clare. Most recently, John has availed of the digitalisation programme which has afforded Aston Eco a consultant to help develop a digital strategy. “Clare LEO are always looking for people who are trying to take a new idea and grow legs. I guess we could have made more money by staying in a city, but coming back to West Clare and opening a training centre

here and doing projects locally, Clare LEO are always there to help you with that.”

To work with Aston Eco or learn more about what they do, visit https://www.astoneco.com/.

To engage with the community, a public debate was held which he reveals began at 6pm and continued until 5am the next morning. “There were 3,000 people in the room and I was there with a microphone and I realised quite quickly that I had made a fundamental error. I had spent €9m making sure the project was financially and technically a good one, and it was, and here I was in one night trying to get support from the people who live close by. The risks were equal but the resources only went one way so that was my wake-up call, it was realising that you can’t design great projects if you don’t involve all of the stakeholders, not just the technical and financial people.”

“Engineers and designers tend to be afraid of communities because

“We fly clients into Shannon and bring them to Carrigaholt and have workshops here instead of in a corporate building or in a hotel in a city, so they get to feel the pace of life of people living in the heart of a community. A lot of what we do is a change of mindset, making busy corporate people realise that a lot of this is about the huminisation of the design process, by taking them to Loop Head and getting them to have a pint with someone down the local village and ask some very simple questions. They get to realise that the community is never the problem, it’s their approach and the speed they’re operating at and it’s the way they’re not prepared to share information which tends to be the problem. It’s a quick way of helping busy people see a different way to developing project.”

John credits the Local Enterprise

John Aston of Aston Eco

Government urged to keep lower VAT

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

CLARE hoteliers are urging the Government to keep the nine per cent VAT rate for the tourism and hospitality sector in Ireland.

The tourism VAT rate, which is due to expire at the end February, is currently under review by the cabinet. In light of the growing economic challenges facing the sector, local hoteliers are urging the Government to retain the existing nine per cent rate to safeguard tourism livelihoods and secure the long-term, sustainable development of Irish tourism.

“The industry is at a critical juncture with consumer confidence reaching decade lows across key markets as it grapples with a cost-of-living crisis, record levels of inflation, interest rate hikes, skyrocketing business costs and a global economy that is edging to wards recession Tourism businesses are collectively Ireland’s largest indigenous employer.

“Prior to the pandemic, the tour ism industry supported over 270,000 livelihoods national ly, including some 12,700 jobs

throughout Clare, generating €266m in tourism revenues annually for the local economy.

“With a full recovery in tourism now likely to be delayed until 2026, an increase in the VAT rate to 13.5% is the last thing that should be contemplated given its inflationary impact and the damage it would cause to Ireland’s tourism competitiveness. This would result in Irish consumers and overseas visitors having to pay the third highest tourism VAT rate in all of Europe.

“Against this backdrop, hotels and guesthouses are urging the Government to retain the nine per cent VAT rate at its current rate,” said a spokesperson for the Irish Hotels Federation.

Clare hoteliers have welcomed comments by Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin, TD, that she will continue to seek a further extension of the lower rate.

The BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2023 Jack Restan Displays Award is presented by Director Mark Restan to Ailish Marrinan, Caragh Killeen, and Cian McInerney, St Joseph’s Community College, Kilkee for their project ‘Kelpoleum: Sugar kelp biofuel as an alternative to petroleum fuel’. The team also took home a ‘highly commended’ nod for their efforts. Alanna Hayes from Scoil Mhuire in Ennistymon claimed the 1st Place Senior Individual Award for her project ‘An Analysis of Routing Algorithms for Electronic Design’. Meteorologist Gerry Murphy presented the Met Eireann Award to Oisin Jackson, Mary Immaculate Secondary School Lisdoonvarna for his project entitled ‘A statistical analysis of the relationship between precipitation and river discharge in the Aille River catchment area’. Oisin Coughlan from CBS Ennistymon received a Display Award for his project “The Normandy Landings: as they happened”. Therese Gunning, Legal Director BT Ireland presented the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2023 Biological and Ecological Sciences Category 3rd Place Intermediate Individual Award to April O’Donnell, Mary Immaculate Secondary School Lisdoonvarna, for the project ‘Is the Clumping Behaviour of Mussels (Mytilus edulis) affected by the Presence of a Predator?’ Mary Immaculate Secondary School Lisdoonvarna students Patrick Byrne O’Connell and Thomas O’Regan also received a highly commended cert for their project on The lunar effect on periwinkle (Littorina littoria) movement

Photo Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography 2023

Clare kids clean up at Young Scientist

€300,000

Within 400 meters of O'Connell Street, boasting an exceptional private site and a rare gem to come to the Ennis market. This 4 bedroom detached dormer family home boasts bright and spacious and well-proportioned living accommodation. Ample off-street parking, a fully walled site with mature gardens and hedgerows, extensive patio and gated side access. The property has 4 double bedrooms with 2 being en-suite with walk-in wardrobes. It also features an open plan kitchen/living/ dining, main reception and bathroom and 2 double bedrooms at ground floor level. This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire a town centre detached home with viewing highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

€225,000

Boasting a front row position on a fantastic corner site in the popular housing development of Lenabeg, just a short stroll to the Lees Road Sporting Complex, Gort Road Shopping Centre, all local amenities including National and Secondary schools and easy access to the inner relief road connecting to the M18. The property boasts bright and spacious living accommodation with main reception, kitchen/dining at ground floor level and 3 double bedrooms and main bathroom with the master bedroom being en-suite to the first floor. Quality finishes including extensive timber flooring and tiling, quality surround fireplace, Shaker maple built in kitchen are just some of the features that this fantastic home boasts. Viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

€229,000

Located in one of Ennis town's much sought after developments, boasting vast open green areas and mature trees and shrubberies, number 81 is located in the Lios Ard housing development, just 500 meters from the M18 motorway and just a short stroll to all of the amenities that the suburb of Roslevan has to offer while also being a few minutes' drive to Ennis town centre. This home, presented in excellent condition throughout, boasts extensive timber flooring and tiling, quality fitted kitchen, solid oak surround fireplace and en-suite master bedroom to mention just some of the many highlights. To the front of the property ample car parking is provided by a double car tarmacadam drive, gated side access leading rear gardens which boasts additional mature shrubbery and lawn area. The property is connected to all mains services. This is an ideal first-time buyer or investment home with viewing highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

€375,000

This property is positioned on a fantastic site of approximately 0.5 acres, conveniently located just a short stroll to Roslevan convenience store and shopping centre, the M18 motorway is 250m from the property and Ennis town is just a short walk away. The property is a substantial 5 bedroom detached family home, boasting 3 reception rooms, an open plan kitchen/dining, utility with guest wc and adjoining garage at ground floor level, 5 double bedrooms, 2 of which are en-suite and main bathroom are positioned to the first floor. The tarmacadam drive is accessed via the dry stone wall entrance which leads to the side and rear gardens. There is an abundance of mature trees and shrubbery surrounding the entire site, making this the ideal family home with all of the amenities on your door step. Viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

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3 Bedroom Semi-detached property with off-street private parking on a tarmac driveway with part lawn area and mature hedging to the front of the dwelling. Built in 2007, the property enjoys oil fired central heating, mains water and sewage. The property is within walking distance of Kilrush town centre and is part of this popular development with fantastic views overlooking the Shannon Estuary. There is a private rear garden space laid to lawn. Viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents.

PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

€220,000 €299,950

This is a large detached family home on the outskirts of Kilrush overlooking the town with fabulous Estuary and Scattery Island views on a well presented site with a matte crete concrete finish front driveway that wraps around the house, with a block wall boundary, wrought iron gates to the front. To the rear is a garden area with detached block built storage shed and boiler house and also electric gates with a back entrance off the residential part of Shannon Heights. Viewing is strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

1A DALCASSIAN AVENUE, TURNPIKE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

81 LIOS ARD, TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

16 LENABEG, DRUMCLIFFE ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

26 BEAL AN INBHIR, LEADMORE WEST, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE

6 SHANNON HEIGHTS, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE

NEW HOMES

McCarthy leads Clare to victory

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

Munster Hurling League at Cusack Park, Ennis

Clare 1-24

Waterford 2-09

CLARE bounced back from an eight point first round loss to Tipperary to secure their first points in the 2023 Munster senior hurling league when recording a two point victory over Waterford at Cusack Park this Sunday afternoon.

However the margin of victory wasn’t sufficient to secure a place in the final and it’s Tipperary who qualify from this group for next week’s decider.

A strong second half performance led to this victory over the Davy Fitzgerald managed Waterford.

Behind by four points at the break, Clare showed more urgency when play resumed and by the mid point of the half they had drawn level with the visitors, 0-16 to 1-13 before midfielder Paddy Donnellan gave them a lead they would hold to the finish.

Aidan McCarthy was their scorer in chief in the first half landing six of their seven points. After the sides were level on four occasions, Waterford finished the half strongly and a Stephen Bennett goal from a penalty just before the short whistle left the half time score at 1-8 to 0-7 at the break.

The visitors landed the first two points of the second half to go six clear but three in a row for Clare left the score at 0-10 to 1-10 five

minutes into the new half. Another three in a row for the home side brought them to within a point of Waterford.

Commenting after the game, Waterford manager Davy Fitzgerald said “Clare were a lot better than us in the second half, that’s it. Whatever happened us atz half time, I don’t know. We stopped doing what we were doing in the first half or maybe they just changed what they were doing. Could we have won that game, yes, 100%.”

Clare manager Brian Lohan “we were going well for the first half except for the last five minutes when we conceded 1-1. It’s a pre season competition in which both teams were a little rusty and a lot of decisions and a lot of shooting wasn’t great. We improved in the second half and we are happy with that, in fairness”.

With ten minutes remaining Clare were three points in front and when Aron Shanagher got in for their goal within a minute of his introduction, Clare fans in the official attendance of 2,254 were looking at the possibility of following the side to the final later this week.

Those hopes were quickly dashed as Waterford’s response to the Clare goal was strong, Mikey Kiely finishing to the net at the other end after Eamonn Foudy had saved well from Jamie Barron.

In the remaining time which included five minutes of ‘injury time’ each side added three points

The games against Tipperary and Waterford will have given Clare boss Brian Lohan and his back-

room team an indication of who is pressing strongly for places in the starting line up for the upcoming league camaign which begins on February 5 with a home tie against Westmeath.

Eamonn Foudy again impressed for Clare while Brandon O’Connell and Cian Galvin did well in defence. Paddy Donnellan had a good game at midfzield while Keith Smyth made an impressive debut as did Kilmihil man Gearoid O’Grady who plays his club hurling with Kilmaley..

Scorers for Clare; Aidan McCarthy (010), 6 frees, 2 ‘65’s; Mark Rodgers (0-4), Aron Shanagher (1-1), Keith Smyth, Paddy Donnellan (0-2) each; David McInerney, David Fitzgerald, Ian Galvin, David Conroy, Gearoid O’Grady (0-1) each

Scorers for Waterford; Stephen Bennett (1-8, 1-0 penalty, 0-6 frees); Mikey Kiely (13); Padraig Fitgerald (0-2), Shane McNulty, Darragh Lyons, Patrick Curran, Kevin Mahony, Jamie Barron, Reuban Halloran (0-1) each.

Clare: 1-Eamonn Foudy; 7-Cian Galvin; 3-Conor Cleary; 22-Rory Hayes; 5-BrandonO’Connell, 23-David McInerney, 6-Darragh Lohan; 8-Paddy Donnellan; 25-Diarmuid Ryan; 9-David Fitzgerald; 11-David Conroy;

l RIVALRY: Aidan McCarthy accounted for 10 of Clare's points and (above) Waterford manager Davy Fitzgerald looks on Photos

14-Aidan McCarthy; 13-Mark Rodgers; 21-Keith Smyth; 15-Ian Galvin; Subs; 2--Paul Flanagan for Lohan (inj. 16); 26-Jack Kirwan for Galvin (51); 17-Gearoid O’Grady for Rodgers (53); 10--Cathal Malone for Donnellan (57); 18--John conneally for Ryan (60); 24-Aron Shanagher for Smyth (62); 4--Aaron Fitzgerald for O’Cnnell (67); 19-Mike Gough for Hayes (68); 20-Oisin O’Donnell for Conroy (70) Waterford;

1-Shaun O’Brien. 4-Conor Ryan, 3-Iarlaith Dal, 2-Cathrach Daly; 18-Michael Harney, 5-Jack Fagan, 7-Shane McNulty; 8-Paddy Leavey, 9 Darragh Lyons; 10-Aaron Ryan, 13-Kevin Mahony, 12-Patrick Curran; 20-Stephen Bennett, 21-Mikey Kiely, 15-Padraig Fitzgerald; Subs; 17-|Jamie Barron for A. Ryan (49; 23-Reuban Halloran for Curran (49); 25-Jack Prendergast for Mahony (60);27-Tom Barron for Harney (68) Referee; Simon Stokes, Cork

Collins frustrated with shooting as Kerry progress 'out the window'

MCGRATH CUP

Clare 0-08 Cork 2-10

Venue: Quilty

Compiled by Derek Dormer

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE: Kickouts won: 16/20 80%

Frees for: 15 8/7

Wides: 9 4/5

Top Scorer: Keelan

Sexton 0-3 (3f)

Scores from play: 0-3

Spread of scorers:5

Bookings: Alan Sweeney, Ronan Lanigan, Darragh Bohannon (Black Card)

to him when it comes to the McGrath Cup but performance does matter as the commencement of the National League fast approaches.

"Desperately disappointing performance if I'm being honest. Alot of the good things we did last week down in Kerry went out the window. Only three scores from play. Our shooting efficiency was deplorable. I'm even afraid to mention the figure to you. We have an awful amount of work to do.

CORK Kickouts won: 13/17 76%

Frees for: 11 5/6

Wides: 8

Top Scorer: Steven Sherlock 1-6(3f)

Scores from play: 2-7

Spread of scorers: 3

Bookings: Mattie Taylor Ian Maguire

REFEREE: Brian Fleming (Kerry)

MANAGER COMMENT

Colm

AFTERWARDS Clare manager Colm Collins was clearly disappointed with the performance. The result never matters

There was a few positives in that we never target this competition as we try use it to give game time to players and alot of players have now seen plenty of action over the last two matches. David Sexton was great today making two super saves and his distribution was top drawer. We have to knuckle down now and get alot of work done as the all important date of the 29th is fast approaching. Today was as poor a display as we have put in but it is the 29th that's important not today."

by Gerard O'Neill

PICTURED: Clare manager Colm Collins

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Collins, Clare:

New chapter for Clare Ladies

by Eoin Brennan sports reporter

CLARE’S elusive quest to regain their senior ladies football status enters a ninth year this Sunday when making their competitive bow in the National League away to Sligo in Curry GAA (2pm).

Understandably contrasting priorities between competitions in 2022 saw the Banner relegated Division 3 of the National Ladies Football League for the first time in 12 years before being agonisingly edged out by Laois after extra-time in the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship Semi-Final last July.

It has been a bitter pill to swallow, particularly as Laois went on to eventually secure the Mary Quinn Memorial Cup in Croke Park. However, backed by a new management team under Wayne Freeman and a lot of fresh faces amidst his 37 player squad, that trauma has been firmly placed in the rearview mirror as Clare look to rebuild and re-arm for another summer assault.

Even the sizeable absence of the talismanic figures of Niamh O’Dea and Laurie Ryan from the League panel is offset by Freeman’s need to uncover new talent and no better place than Division 3 to conduct that reconstruction work.

Freeman, who as Louth manager orchestrated a famous All-Ireland Championship victory over Clare in Cusack Park last June, is joined on his backroom team by fellow Kildare natives Brian Willis and Lee Hunt who have forged a strong managerial partnership over the past six years. Having applied for the position himself, Freeman is acutely aware of Clare’s potential and is determined to turn that latent promise into tangible silverware.

“I’m definitely more optimistic now than before I arrived here first.” Admits Freeman. “We’ve done two and half months training, predominantly in the gym, since the trial period and it has been going really well.

“We have a great mix of youth and experience in the squad. There will be plenty of girls making their adult breakthrough as well as a few players have come back into the set-up which have really boosted the squad.

“Caoimhe [Harvey] our captain is just sensational so it’s super news for us that

Shannon Town through to last 16 of Munster

Munster Junior Cup Last 32

Shannon Town A 2 Corkbeg AFC 1

CORKBEG AFC were the opponents for Shannon Town in Lynch Park on Sunday 15th in the Munster junior Cup.

The home side started sluggish in tough sticky conditions with Corkbeg knocking the ball around early on and managed to force a couple of very good saves from Eoghan Casey in the Town goal.

With 25 minutes gone in the half the home side started to take control of possession working the back line of Corkbeg into last ditch tackles and blocks.

The home side eventually opened the scoring when an excellent through ball from winger Charlie Morrison played Kai Khetan in on goal he sprinted past the center half and fired into the bottom corner to make it 1-0.

she decided to come back so soon after having her first baby.

“Orla Devitt too is in college up in Belfast but is committing to us for the year in whatever capacity she can. So there’s a lot of positivity around the group and there’s a great bond there so we’re really happy with the way it’s going and are looking forward to finally getting going this Sunday.”

Clare Ladies Football Panel: Caoimhe Harvey (West Clare Gaels); Cliodhna Blake (Doonbeg), Lyndsey Clarke (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield), Sinead Considine (Liscannor), Lauren Conway (Doonbeg), Ao- ife Corey (Éire Óg), Orla Devitt (Éire Óg), Laura Griffey (Burren Gaels), Joanna Doohan (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Rebecca Doohan (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Megan Downes (Cooraclare), Lauren Griffin (Fergus Rovers), Louise Griffin (Fergus Rovers), Grainne Harvey (West Clare Gaels), Shauna Harvey (West Clare Gaels), Emma Healy (Burren Gaels), Emer Hynes (Clooney-Quin), Aine Keane (Miltown Malbay), Eimear Keane (Miltown Malbay), Amy Lenihan (St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield), Roisin Looney (Cooraclare), Fidelma Marrinan (West Clare Gaels), Ciara McCarthy (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Caoilinn McCormack (Burren Gaels), Alana McInerney (Éire Óg), Chloe Moloney (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Aisling Morrissey (Cooraclare), Jenna Murphy

(Kilrush), Siofra Ní Chonaill (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield), Norah O’Dwyer (Burren Gaels), Shauna O’Gorman (Coora- clare), Sarah Redmond (Éire Óg), Aisling Reidy (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield), Lizzy Roche (Burren Gaels), Amy Sexton (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Aine Slattery (Fergus Rovers), Rae Wall (Éire Óg)

Management: Wayne Freeman (Manager); Brian Willis (Coach), Lee Hunt (Coach & Analysis), Eoin McMahon (S&C), Diarmuid Tobin (Physio), Edel Conway (Female Liaison Officer)

2023 Lidl Ladies Football League Division 3

Eight teams, round-robin format, with top two contesting the final and bottom team relegated. Round 1 (Sunday, January 22nd) - Sligo v Clare at Curry

GAA, 2pm

Round 2 (Sunday, January 29th) - Clare v Wexford at Shanahan McNamara Park Doonbeg. 2pm

Round 3 (Sunday, February 5th) - Clare v Kildare at Shanahan McNamara Park Doonbeg, 2pm

Round 4 (Sunday, February 19th) - Offaly v Clare at Offaly

Venue TBC, 2pm

Round 5 (Sunday, February 26th) - Clare v Down at Cusack Park Ennis, 2pm

Round 6 (Sunday, March 19th)

- Clare v Louth at Shanahan McNamara Park Doonbeg, 2pm

Round 7 (Sunday, March 26th)

- Longford v Clare at Longford

Venue TBC, 2pm

Final (Sunday, April 16th) - 1st Placed Team v 2nd Placed Team

10 minutes later another excellent passage of play on the edge of the box saw Khetan find the net again with another great finish only to see the ref rule the goal offside, the home support not happy at all with the decision.

The 2nd half started and the rain making

the conditions even worse made for battles all over the pitch, great play on both wings from Brian Monaghan and Charlie Morrison saw the Cork side really feel it on the legs.

On the 70th minute mark the home side doubled the scoring when Charlie Morrison picked up a ball in his own half he burst down the line leaving 3 defenders in his wake he made it to the end line and with an excellent cross into the box saw Kieran Hackett blast into the net to make it 2-0.

The Cork side fought back and were rewarded for their pressure when a corner kick was headed home by the Corkbeg striker to make it 2-1 with 8 or 9 minutes to play.

The Cork side should have scored again in the final minutes when a cross into the box was not dealt with by the Town men only to see the cork forward slice his effort away from the Town goal.

The home side shut up shop in the final minutes and saw out the massive win, the team and management delighted with the win and to progress to the last 16 of the competition.

Avenue & Newmarket in FAI cup action

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

The FAI Junior cup is the main focus in Clare soccer next weekend with both Avenue United and Newmarket Celtic away in the 5th round.

Avenue travel to Cork to play St Mary's,while Newmarket go to Dublin to play Raheny, who beat Clara Town 4-0 at the weekend.

Both Clare teams are in good form, playing well and with their experience are capable of progressing.

Both have got to the latter stages of this competition which attracts junior sides from across the country.

In the Munster youths cup Tulla Utd travel to Cork to play Watergrasshill and judging on their performances to date this season, they will be

fancied to win this one.

On the domestic front, there are three games listed for decision in the premier league. Kilrush Rangers will have home advantage against Bridge United, Coole FC will entertain Shannon Town while Lifford will have home advantage against Mountshannon Celtic.

All three games are scheduled to kick off at 11am.

Bad weather disrupts golf competitions…again

by Seamus Hayes sports reporter

THE heavy rainfall of last week followed by the severe frost earlier this week combined to disrupt golf competitions at a number of clubs with competitions being cancelled at all competitions

KILRUSH

The weekend singles competition at Kilrush was won by Noel Thornton (11) with 29 points

from John Stapleton (13) who had 26 points. In the weekly singles on Friday, John K. Ryan (10) was the winner with 32 points from Sean Finnucane (15) with 26 points with third spot filled by Terry O’Hare (6) with 25 points

WOODSTOCK

Weather permitting there will be a club singles stableford competition at Woodstock on this Saturday and Sunday

l NEW CAMPAIGN: Caoimhe Harvey Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Shannon Town: Eoghan Case; Stephen Carroll, Takudzwa Nyakujara, Liam Boland , Cody Waller; Colin Curran, Tj o Dywer, Brian Monaghan, Charlie Morrison, Kieran Hackett, Kai Khetan. MOTM: Liam Boland

l Kai Khetan of Shannon Town celebrates after scoring Shannon Town's first goal

Photo by Joe Buckley

Clare Badminton success

by Seamus Hayes sports reporter

Clare Badminton players were flying the flag in Killarney at the Munster Grade D and G Championships on Sunday the 9th January.

Fatima Sanchez and Brendan Dolan emerged Grade G Mixed Doubles Winners after a long day’s competition. Micheal O’Loughlin, meanwhile, won the Grade D Singles after an epic final. Micheal was also runner up in the D Mens Doubles.

Sarah Barry and Katie Browne were runners-up in the Grade D Ladies Doubles.

Badminton competitions continued last Sunday where many competitors travelled to Waterford for the F and H graded Munster Closed competition. Cork was the venue for the Grade C event.

Co Clare was once again represented by a large contingent of players and there were some great wins, close matches, near misses and valuable experience had by all. Winner of the Grade C Mens Competition was Daryl Eade. Daryl has been instrumental in the numbers of adults and juveniles playing the game in the last number of years since he started his Smash Badminton club.

Working closely with Ennis Tennis and Badminton Club and all the other clubs in Clare, the numbers and talent coming to badminton now is exceptional.

Daryl also picked up 2 silver medals for Men's Doubles and Mixed Doubles.

Co Clare also had a winner in the Men's Grade H competition.

Christopher Hanlon took home the

Ennis RFC issues memorabilia appeal

Gold.

Emily Feehan was runner up in the women's Grade H final earning herself a silver.

Christopher Hanlon and Damien Healy fought all the way in the men's doubles H final but had to settle for second place. And in the mixed doubles Grade H, Susan Gavin and Vincent Zhu came home with the silver medals.

2023 is a momentous year for Ennis RFC with the club celebrating its 100th anniversary. Thanks to the foresight of its founding members and the diligent work of many stalwarts since, the club has developed from humble beginnings into the excellent, progressive and all inclusive club that we all know and cherish today.

As part of the centenary celebrations, the club is planning to publish a Centenary Book which will document, in word and picture, the story of the club from its genesis to the present day.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Ennis RFC said, “To ensure we don’t leave anything out, we are launching an appeal for help from anyone who has been associated with the club in any shape or form over the years.

“Perhaps somebody played for the club and have old team photographs lying around at home? Perhaps you have old jerseys of interest or a funny story to tell? You might have coached a team, made the tea or washed the jerseys!

“In any event, we want to hear from you and would appreciate any and all contributions you could make.

“We promise to carefully treasure any memorabilia you might be in a position to loan us and will return it safely to you.”

Ennis RFC has set up a dedicated email address to which you can email details of any items of interest – erfchistory@gmail. com or former President and long time club member Johnny King can be contacted directly on 0863854514.

“We would love you to help us record your treasured memories of the last 100 years as we enter our second century."

Elvis on Song For The Banner Boys In Clonmel

by MICHAEL MAHER

FLOWERPOT Elvis made it three wins from three on Sunday night when racing in Clonmel.

Owned by the Banner Syndicate of Gary Pepper, Feakle, Seanie McMahon of Newmarket on Fergus and Tommie Hegarty of Clarecastle, Flowerpot Elvis won heat three in round one of the Guys&Dolls Sweepstake at the Clonmel Track.

Syndicate member Tommie Hegarty relates that they picked up Elvis last October and he has impoved race on race. Sunday night was his third win from three races. "Needless to say we very happy with him so far and hope he stayes safe and sound going forward. He won his first race for us in Limerick in a time of 28.95, taking it up from traps and never headed and then went back to Clonmel for his second when he won in 29.29 taking it up at the third bend and going away to win comfortably.

"Last night then had to show bit of fight to get through crowding at first bend and went clear and kept on going to line to hold off fast finishing Greenane Camino in a time of 28.93 - 29.03."

Astro Keys owned by Damian & Gary Pepper of Feakle got the weekend off to the ideal start winning race 5 at the Galway Track on Friday night in this A8 graded contest as she proved seven lengths too good for Copper Sword in 29.44.

The winner was away well in company with Jimmys Gadgets but railing well at the opening bend Astro Keva quickly took command of the contest . Racing down the back the daughter of Droopys Sydney & Astro Abby extended her advantage with every stride as Copper Stood stayed on for second place in the straight .

In race 8 at Galway on Friday night all six runners were away on terms for this A5 graded contest with Miss Scion just shading the issue as they rounded the opening

bend. Turning down the back Miss Scion led Glynnscross Liz by over two lengths with Rosshill Wildcat in third place approaching halfway. As the leader approached the penultimate bend though the Thomas Keane of Kilmihil owned Glynnscross Liz moved though on the inner to take command and the daughter of Droopys Sydney & Glynnscrosstyler quickly drew clear to defeat Rosshill Wildcat by four & a half lengths in 29.64.

After a very busy December period at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, where the crowds exceeded all expectations, the first meeting of 2023 took place on Thursday evening last. The first Clare owned winner of the 2023 calendar was that great servant Inislosky Urchin for Mary Crotty from O’Briensbridge – a daughter of Romeo Recruit and Inislosky Swift, she justified favouritism with a 29.50 victory for an A5 contest, and this was her 15th career success.

There was a trap to line victory for Knoppogue Star who is own and trained by Tulla’s Donie Duggan, a son of Skywalker Rafa and Malteaser, he stopped the clock in 29.54 for an A6 contest to record his third career win.

It was great to see New Work Sky enter the winners enclosure after recording sixsecond placed runs, this son of Skywalker Rafa and Notimetotalk who is owned by Leo McNulty from Drumline in partnership with Vincent Sweeney finished strongly to claim the honours in 29.22, and he trained by O’Callaghan Mills Donal Cooney.

On Saturday at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, Snuggie Bunty recorded his fifth career victory for the Newmarket on Fergus duo of Breda Casey And Myles Cummins, a son of Paddys Magic and Miles Girl, he finished strongly to take the honours in 29.35 for an A2 contest.

l SMASHING RESULT: Michael O'Loughlin won the Grade D singles final in Killarney, and was runner up in the doubles event

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYNACRAGGA, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE. Further information/ Revised plans

Planning Reference No: P22/505

Development Description: The development consists of a two-storey extension to the rear of existing building, construct new garage, connect to existing septic tank, demolish existing garage and carry out all ancillary site works. Location: ‘Joy Lodge’, Ballynacragga, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Róisin Murphy & James McNamara have lodged significant Further Information in respect of Planning Application P22/505. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable costs of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the Further Information or Revised Plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority 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. MAIN STREET, TULLA, CO. CLARE. Take note that Martin Murphy is applying to Clare County County for Planning Permission to Demolish existing buildings and Construct one number dwelling, a commercial unit with first floor accommodation, two apartments including external storage and including all 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 KYLE, BROADFORD, CO. CLARE AND GORTNAGLOGH, BROADFORD, CO. CLARE

Relocation of ExistingArdnacrushaTulla 38 kV Line.

The Electricity Supply Board intends to apply to the above Authority for permission to relocate the existing ArdnacrushaTulla 38 kV Line in the Townlands of Kyle and

Gortnaglogh, Broadford, Co. Clare. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae on Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the 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. Marie Sinnott. Secretary E.S.B.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DERRYOWEN, TUBBER, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Clive Earley is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct an agricultural loose house, stables, horse walker, lunging ring and dungstead along with other necessary 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 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 CLOONCOLMAN, BALLYNACALLY, ENNIS, CO CLARE.

Take notice that Paul Nagle intends to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURROOR, LISSYCASEY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Grace Kelly intends to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of

the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKNAGROAGH, BALLYAUGHAN, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www. foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Paul O’Donoghue for permission to a) construct an entrance, dwelling house and detached domestic garage b) Install a wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter c) Install a bored well together with all associated site development works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within

the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

287 QUAY ROAD, CLARECASTLE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www. foudyconsulting.ie.

intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Emma Lynch for permission to a) remove external utility & W.C. b) construct a side and rear extension to existing dwellinghouse together with all associated site development works and services at the above address.

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

BALLYNACRAGGA, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Michael Murphy intends to apply for RETENTION PERMISSION for the alterations to the house and garage as built on site

& 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 UNIT 7, GORT ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE.

Take notice that Minds Applied Ltd are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to use first floor of structure for office space ancillary to the production facility granted under P22-287. 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.

Miltown Chimney Cleaning

Open Fires, Stoves & Ranges

All areas covered Call Pearse on 085 1187811

CHIMNEY CLEANING CHILDMINDER

CHILDMINDER needed in Ennis for a two year old and nine month old girl working two to three days per week, commencing in January. Call 0872858559

CHILDMINDER

Childminder sought in Crusheen area to mind 3 children (8,3,1) in their own home or childminders home on a week on week off basis. School and Playschool drop off & collections required. Term time only. Please contact 086-1947355 for more information.

GRINDS

Irish Grinds available to Leaving Certificate Students Ordinary and Higher Level. All aspects of course are covered and comprehensive notes provided. Contact: 0834777423

PERSONAL ASSISTANT

Personal assistant / carer available in the home days /nights weekends phone 0868493832

TUITION

Irish Grinds Available to honour Leaving Certificate level, all aspects of Irish course & comprehensive notes provided Call 085 2127980.

WORK WITH HORSES

Person wanted to work with horses, full or part time work available. Previous experience with horses essential. Call Tony 087 8100045

The Clare Echo Quiz

SHANNON AIRPORT QUIZ

1 In 1936, the Government of Ireland confirmed that it would develop a 3.1-square-kilometre for the country’s first transatlantic airport. This land was in what parish? Shannon, Sixmilebridge, Newmarket-on-Fergus

2The first passenger aircraft landing occurred at Shannon Airport in what year? 1939, 1940, 1941

3 In 1945, the first transatlantic proving flight, a Pan Am DC-4, landed at Shannon Airport. Where did it fly from? Boston, New York City, Washington

4 What year did the first scheduled commercial flight pass through Shannon Airport? 1940, 1944, 1945

5 Who was the first US President to fly into Shannon Airport? Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedys

6 Shannon Airport has the longest runway in Ireland, what length is it?

3,000m, 3,100m, 3,200m

7 Who was the Shannon Airport chef that invented Irish coffee in 1942?

Michael ‘Gazzy’ Collins, Joe Sheridan, Sean McNamara

8 The world’s first Duty Free shop opened in Shannon Airport in what year? 1947, 1955, 1960

9 Who was the Sixmilebridge man that invented the concept of the Duty Free?

Syl O’Connor, Brendan O’Regan, John Crowe

10Which tourist attraction came into existence with the building of the runway at Shannon Airport? Knappogue Castle, Vandeleur Walled Gardens, Bunratty Folk Park

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the 7 differences

Last weeks answers

. Stripe missing on refs shoulder

. logo missing on refs shorts

. Writing missing on ball

. socks different colour

. boots diferent colour of tackling player

. logo on scrum cap missing (background) . logo on ennis’ top missing

Pictured at Obair, Newmarket on Fergus Kate Tierney (Volunteer), Eimear Murphy (Meals on Wheels Co-Ordinator), Alice Delaney (Volunteer), Vincent Delaney (Volunteer), Eileen McGrath (Volunteer), Siobhan O’Driscoll (Operations Manager, Obair CLG) and Conor Mulqueen (Kitchen Assistant)

5. John F Kennedy

6. 3,200 metres

7. Joe Sheridan

8. 1947

9. Brendan O’Regan Bunratty10. Folk Park

lSHANNON AIRPORT:

Best Daily Word Search: 16 January 2023

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES Jan 19th

Puzzle THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 19, 2023 Support journalism in Clare by subscribing to www.clareecho.ie/subscribe 39 SUDOKU

Boat Bomb Buttress Carpet Circus Doctor Dutchman Fish Fortress Fox Jib Lemur Lizard Mare Officer Picket Saucer Squad Squirrel Start Wing

The Clare Echo Crossword

January 2023

not too your coffee

Michael Curl

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.

ACROSS

1. Item of footwear(4)

3. Unripe(8)

9. Irritated(7)

10. Credit, prestige(5)

11. Custom(5)

12. Patron saint of Scotland(6)

14. Closer(6)

16. Former name of Iran(6)

19. Whitening chemical(6)

21. Tantalise(5)

24. Arbour(5)

25. Dishonourable(7)

26. Imperil(8)

27. Scottish dance(4)

1. Hopeful(8)

2. Last Greek letter(5)

4. Noon(6)

5. Invited(5)

6. Disrobe(7)

7. Otherwise(4)

8. Sheep’s coat of wool(6)

13. Goodbye(8)

15. Permitted(7)

17. Stretch out(6)

18. Three times(6)

20. Protective garment(5)

22. Saunter(5)

23. Proficient(4)

ANSWERS

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

that's | Puzzle: by