The Clare Echo 21/04/22

065 671 9021

clareecho.ie

APR 21 2022

Dooley recounts horrors of Ukraine visit

‘CIVILIANS LAY DEAD IN BODYBAGS’ C

LARE Senator Timmy Dooley encountered mass graves and blood-stained cars riddled with bullets this week in Ukraine, where he un-

veils the horrors he encountered in a column for The Clare Echo.

Dooley (FF) visited Ukraine for the second time since Russia’s invasion in February. He wrote, “As the

Russian forces retreated from Kyiv the people of Bucha and Irpin have faced the frustration and cowardice of the Russian military.

FULL STORY pg 18

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THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Index NEWS

2-13

ENTERTAINMENT

14-15

GREEN PAGE

17

COMMUNITY

19

RECRUITMENT

20-21

HURLING PREVIEW

22-26

SPORT

27-30

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

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

IN MEMORY: 86 year old Aindréas Mac Dómhnaill, the eldest son of IRA Volunteer Paddy McDonnell, proudly laid the wreath at the grave of the Scariff Martyrs on behalf of his family, who were in attendance Photo by Ruth Griffin

EASTER SUNDAY COMMEMORATION

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by PÁRAIC McMAHON

ASTER Sunday marked the commencement of the East Clare Memorial Committee’s second century of commemorations.

The group, who have annually commemorated both the East Clare IRA and Scariff Martyrs across the last 100 years, once remembered those who fought for Irish independence.

At the East Clare Memorial Park in Tuamgraney, where the East Clare IRA and Cumann na mBan Brigades are commemorated, a wreath was laid at.

This year, Chairman of the West Clare Brigade Commemoration Group, JT Larkin, was called on to perform the ceremonial duty.

Larkin laid a wreath in honour of the West and East Clare IRA Brigades who combined in April 1921 to attack the heavily militarised town of Kilrush.

In April 2021, members of the East Clare Memorial Committee travelled to West Clare to acknowledge the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Kilrush Ambush.

At the ground of Scariff Roman Catholic Church, a wreath was placed at the grave of the Scariff Martyrs,

Michael ‘Brud’ McMahon, Alphie Rodgers, Martin Gildea and Michael Egan.

The four men were shot dead by British forces on Killaloe Bridge in November 1920.

The historian, Dr Tomás Mac Conmara published his seventeen-year research, The Scariff Martyrs, War, Murder and Memory in East Clare, into the story in September of last year, which has ignited significant interest in the story across East Clare and beyond.

The Memorial Committee arranged for the family of Paddy McDonnell to lay a wreath for the occasion.

McDonnell was a native of Kiltea in Tuamgraney and was a senior IRA Volunteer during the revolutionary period.

For over two years, Paddy was ‘on the run’ during which time his home was raided over fifteen times by Crown Forces.

It was eventually burned down by members of the RIC, Black and Tans and Auxiliaries in late 1920.

On the night that the bodies of the four Scariff Martyrs were brought back to Scariff Church, Paddy, against the advice of his comrades, went in secret to the church to see the remains of his friends.

Decades later he descried the condition of their bodies in an interview with Ernie O’Malley.

On Easter Sunday, his oldest son, Aindréas MacDómhnaill performed the wreath laying duty in memory of his father, who died in Nenagh in 1962.

Patrick Murphy, a member of the Tulla Pipe Band continued the tradition, reaching back over fifty years, of leading the commemorations at both Tuamgraney and Scariff.

The Chairman of the East Clare Memorial Committee, Cllr. Pat Hayes (FF) emphasised the importance of continuing their annual commemoration, “We have said for many years that while the landmark occasions are important, we are committed to remembering the men and women who fought for this country’s independence ever year.

"We have been overwhelmed by the meaning that the people who we invite gain from the simple process of laying a commemorative wreath. It is their chance to honour their family members who they are rightly proud of.

"It also helps us to learn more about the period and the various characters that make up the story of our past”.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

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New contract to be signed for €14m County Library

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

'Very serious assualt' under investigation

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

NEW contract is to be signed for the construction of the €14m County Library this Friday.

Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling confirmed a new contractor will be officially announced by the end of this week, ending an eighteen month wait for an appointment.

“There has been a lot of work done. I’m sure and confident it will be a success this time. We will see work back on site as soon as possible,” he stated.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) expressed his hope that the development would strengthen the county’s cultural reputation. “It is going to be a huge cultural asset to the county, it will compliment glór and we will hopefully get forty to fifty good years out of it like the past library”.

He referenced a previous notice of motion before the local authority whereby he asked that Clare declare itself as a county of culture and creativity, while the cultural aspect was taken on board, the creativity side was not. “The Library and Arts Centre will embrace creativity, it so important for artists to have a sense of wellbeing within the county”.

GARDAÍ continue their investigations into what they have described as “a very serious assault”.

An Ennis hairdresser’s was the location of the assault, The Clare Echo has learned with one man attacked as he was preparing to get his hair cut, he ended up with serious injuries to his head and arms which required treatment at University Hospital Limerick.

The Clare Echo understands that the attack was linked to a recent fire in Cloughleigh and formed part of a retaliation act. At approximately 2:20pm on Monday April 11th, Francis St in Ennis was the scene of “a very serious assault,” An Garda Síochána have confirmed.

A black Opel Insignia bearing the false number plates 02 D 69360 travelled from the Clonroad towards Francis St, the car stopped outside Tesco where the boot was opened and it proceeded to travel down the street reversing into a private car park where five hooded males exited the car with weapons and entered a business premises “where they seriously assaulted a male,” crime prevention officer, Triona Brooks outlined.

They returned to the car after this and headed back to the direction of Clonroad. “It is unknown where it went from there,” she admitted. “From viewing cctv cameras several members of the public witnessed the arrival and departure of this car and the men entering and leaving the business premises. We would ask anyone who did see this incident or anyone who may have dash cam footage to contact Ennis Garda Station on 6848100,” she added.

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BOOKS: An artists impression of the new library

Keating Construction had initially won the tender to carry out the construction works but the marine and engineering firm entered liquidation in February of last year. An examinership process led by KPMG failed to yield any potential saviours for the company after it unearthed debts of €30m.

Prior to the discovery of financial woes of the company in July 2020, Keating had up to 200 employees, between 20 to 25 of

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which were located at its Co Clare offices.

Louis Keating founded the Clare company and established a very successful operation.

He sold L&M Keating in 2018 at a time when it had a turnover of €60m.

Late 2021 was the original target for completion of the construction of the library building on Causeway Link in Ennis.

A revised timeline is expected to be outlined with the signing of the new contract.

Saying no to data centre means losing out on jobs PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

AYING NO to a data centre in Ennis would see the county lose out on a “significant number” of jobs in the IT sector, a Government Minister has warned.

Further information had been sought by Clare County Council in September into the application from Art Data Centres Ltd to develop a vertical farm and six data halls designed on a flexible and modular basis, covering 145 acres/1.3 million sq ft.

A 10 year planning permission was requested with a net area for development of 111 acres. Located on the Tulla Rd on the outskirts of Ennis, developers said 250 jobs will be created in the data centre, 1,200 in construction and 600 in support services.

Criticism on the Green Party’s involvement in plans to ban the sale of turf was voiced by Senator Regina Doherty, “This is virtue signalling at its very best. Maybe start with something that would actually make a difference. There are 53 Data Centres in Ireland, 8 under construction and 26 with planning permission and do we hear a single peep about them? Sharing a few bags of turf though”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) admitted he was not fully familiar with the details

relating to the Ennis Data Centre but disputed the rhetoric from Senator Doherty. “The Commission for the Regulations of Utilities recently brought in strict new guidelines in terms of when and where data centres should be built and that they have to have sources of power that are renewable, Eamon Ryan led a lot of that so I’m surprised to see Senator Doherty say we’ve been quiet on that one, we’ve been clear on our view”.

Location of the Data Centres is the key aspect while he stressed the economic benefit to areas from their development. “It’s where they are located, are they located close to energy sources, we also have to remember data centres would generate employment from some of the major multinationals in the IT sector, they are major employers so there is a balancing element, if we said a complete no to data centres then it would mean a significant number of IT would not be coming to Ennis or my constituency in Dublin 15”.

Futureproof Clare, Extinction Rebellion Clare and the Clare Environmental Network have all come out in opposition to the plans for the Data Centre in Ennis. Emanuela Ferrari of Futureproof Clare commented, “We are rapidly approaching dangerous climate ‘tipping points’. The only way to avoid a climate catastrophe is for every country to decarbonise rapidly. Building more data centres is going in the wrong direction”.

Clare TD, Joe Carey (FG) has previously spoken in favour of the Ennis Data Centre which he said were central to the digital economy.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

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THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

'We have to use invisibility as a survival strategy' PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

OMOPHOBIC and transphobic abuse must continue to be called out while a Shannon mother has admitted that she regularly fears her transgender son is going to be attacked for just being himself.

In the wake of the brutal killings of Aidan Moffitt and Michael Snee in Sligo, vigils have been organised in their memory across the country including in Co Clare. Quare Clare held a memorial in Killaloe on Easter Sunday while a day later Shannon Town Park remembered the men and a walk organised

by Jean O’Grady took place in Tim Smythe Park also on Easter Monday.

Both men died violently in their own homes. A male has been charged in relation to their deaths. The aftermath has seen conversations begin in relation to the treatment of the LGBTQ+ community in Ireland.

Speaking in Shannon, Jamie Walsh said it is high-time actions of homophobic and transphobic abuse were called out consistently. “LGBT persons are frequently targeted by hate speech and violence towards them, too often I’ve heard the terms unnatural, diseased, deviant, linked to crime, immoral or socially destabilising when I am being described. Discrimination, homophobia

PRIDE: Jamie Walsh shares his story and (inset) some of the crowd attending the vigil and transphobia affect the lives and choices of a LGBT person in all aspects of our social lives from the early years, the derogatory words used for LGBT at school or out on the streets teach us to remain invisible.

“Invisibility is used as a survival strategy because of the fear of being exposed to dis-

Burke resigns from Health Forum

by PÁRAIC McMAHON WHITEGATE representative, Cllr Pat Burke (FG) has resigned from his role on the HSE Regional Health Forum West.

For the past eleven years, Cllr Burke has been one of the four Clare representatives sitting on the Forum which meets every quarter and includes representatives from the City Councils of Limerick and Galway plus County Councils of Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Limerick, Mayo, North Tipperary, Roscommon and Sligo.

Up to seven questions were tabled by Cllr Burke during his time on the Forum, an exact figure could not be provided as minutes from some meetings have been unavailable since the HSE online system was hacked last year.

Among the items raised

by the former Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District included primary care centres within the county and a more flexible approach from HIQA to accommodation needs in community hospitals and nursing homes.

Raheen Community Hospital was regularly flagged

by Cllr Burke with queries relating to physiotherapy services there, capital funding, schedules for extension works and status updates on phase two plans.

Time commitments are understood to be a factor for the farmer’s decision to vacate his role, he attended one of the four meetings held by the Forum in 2021 and was absent for its most recent sitting, the first in-person meeting since the pandemic.

This month’s meeting of Clare County Council heard confirmation of Cllr Burke’s departure.

“I would like to thank Cllr Burke for the great commitment and time he gave to this forum. With circumstances beyond his control, he can no longer continue in this position,” Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) stated.

Mayor of Clare, Cllr Ryan recalled serving with his colleague on the Forum, “he was very active and he certainly did a lot through HSE West for the people of Clare, he highlighted numerous situations”.

On the proposal of Cllr Cooney and seconded by Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND), Ennis’ Cllr Mary Howard (FG) was chosen to fill the vacancy on the Forum until the end of the current Council term in 2024.

Photo by Joe Buckley

crimination, rarely seen positive LGBT reporting on social media also makes us want to remain invisible, reports show that one in three have been threatened with physical violence, one in five have been hit or attacked, this is happening in our homes, communities and schools, there needs to be

more done for our youth services across the board, particularly in rural areas, we need to stand up and speak out when we hear homophobic or transphobic speech”.

Up until his teenage years, Jamie was known as Saoirse and has since embraced transgenderism. The Dublin based student came out as a lesbian at the age of 16, at the age of 19 he became transgender. He quoted the former Emperor of Ethiopia, Haile Selassie on Monday evening, “Throughout history it has been the inaction of those who could have acted, the indifference of those who should have known better, the silence of the voice of justice when it mattered most that has made it possible for evil to triumph”.

Jamie’s mother, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) expressed her pride after her son’s address in the Town Park, “I can’t tell you how proud I am of my son Jamie, I’ve only one child but how lucky am I to be able to have experienced a son and a daughter”.

Cllr McGettigan admitted she is fearful of regular attacks on her son. “As a mother I worry is Jamie going to be attacked, I know Jamie has had words thrown at him, threats thrown at him, that is not the life any mother or father wants for their child. Hate is taught to children, they are not born hating, it is taught to them, we as parents, as a community, as teachers need to teach our children to love, to love no matter who or what you are, it doesn’t matter, you are you and we love you, that is the way life should be but unfortunately it is not the way it is”.

€1.34m heroin seized by Gardaí HEROIN with an estimated street value of €1.34m has been seized by Gardaí at the border between Clare and Limerick, writes Páraic McMahon.

In a major drugs seizure as part of Operation Tara targeting the distribution of controlled drugs in Limerick, Gardaí attached to the Limerick Divisional Drug Unit, supported

by Gardaí from Mayorstone, Regional Dog Unit and members of the Defence Forces, carried out a number of searches in Corbally and Clonlara.

During the course of one search, Gardaí recovered heroin, with an estimated street value, subject to analysis, of €1.34m. No

persons were arrests during the course of the search and the drugs will now be forwarded to Forensic Science Ireland for analysis.

A further search took place at a separate location and Gardaí seized €12,500 in cash.

A man (40s) was arrested at the scene of this search and was taken to Henry Street Garda Station where he is currently detained pursuant to Section 4, Criminal Justice Act, 1984.

This seizure forms part of Operation Tara; an enhanced national anti-drugs strategy, which was launched by Garda Commissioner Drew Harris on 2nd July 2021.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

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Greens won't be thrown to the wolves

by PÁRAIC McMAHON A GREEN Party Minister has expressed confidence that their work in Government will be remembered when it comes to polling day.

Relations between Government parties appear to have taken a dent over the turf ban controversy with Tánaiste Leo Varadkar (FG) voicing criticism of Minister for Climate, Eamon Ryan (GP) at a recent parliamentary party meeting.

During a visit to Co Clare which included engagements in Inagh, Lisdoonvarna, Ennis and Newmarket-on-Fergus, Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) was hopeful for their future.

The Clare Echo referenced previous calls from Minister Ryan which discussed the re-introduction of wolves across the country and asked Minister O’Gorman if he was worried that their partners in Government would throw them to the wolves when it comes to the next election.

“I think we’re working well across Government in terms of how we responded to the COVID crisis, the public health outcomes but also economic outcomes our country has had compared to other European countries, it’s a Government that has delivered so far. I believe our party is delivering in Government both on our core Green agenda but also on issues within my own Department like supporting childcare, the voters will recognise that I think come the next election and the work that myself and fantastic colleagues like Senator Garvey have been doing,” Minister O’Gorman responded.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Recruitment causing waiting list delay

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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IFFICULTIES in recruitment rather than funding is the main factor preventing the HSE from reducing the waiting list for speech and language therapy, a Government Minister has said.

The Clare Echo has highlighted the story of five year old Jack O’Loughlin who last September was told he would have an 18 month wait to access speech and language therapy (SLT) for a second time. He was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder in 2021, he received a subsequent appointment for SLT. Last September, The Clare Echo highlighted that the wait time for a follow-up appointment was 18 months, in April the wait time remains the same.

Jack’s father Kieran told The Clare Echo that 18 months is “a phenomenal amount of time for a child to be waiting, you know it’s a year and half of their life".

Figures from February of this

year detail that 5,698 children are awaiting an assessment for SLT, 85 of those within Clare, with a further 5,538 awaiting their initial SLT, 251 within Clare, and another 7,489, like Jack, awaiting further speech and language therapy, a significant 619 in this county.

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) flagged that issues relating to the delivery of therapies are for now the responsibility of the Department of Health but acknowledged that they will be soon transferring to his Department. “I know my colleague Anne Rabbitte is extremely focused on the waiting list for therapies across the country, we need to look at a range of issues”.

Budgets are set aside but the posts have not been filled, he said. “For once, money is not the barrier, there’s very significant resources in the HSE but we have a real difficulty in securing therapists, we have to look at a range of issues and

SLT: Jack and Kieran O'Loughlin

maybe bringing in panels to get positions filled when a therapist is out on maternity leave, we have to make it easier to recognise qualifications from the UK or from Scotland where people have trained, a lot of people go to the UK, do their training but

Photo by Natasha Barton

since the UK’s departure from the EU, not everything is immediately recognisable, I think the recruitment and personnel management strategy that the HSE are employing is something I will be looking at closely".

Violetta & Tasha – Hope in a time of despair

REUNITED: Debbie and Violette and (inset) Tasha the dog

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by MOLLY CANTWELL

N THE last week, the reunion between Violetta and Tasha in Clare has lit a flame of hope amongst Ukrainian tragedy. Violetta is a Ukrainian refugee currently residing in County Clare. She is an 86-year-old woman, in the early stag-

es of dementia, reliant on her beloved dog Tasha as a companion. During her escape from war torn Ukraine, Violetta was forced to leave her dog with a family in Romania - a heartbreaking decision for her whole family.

The toll the separation was taking, and the guilt felt was evident when she and her family arrived in Ireland.

Debbie Deegan, who was connected to the family through a friend, decided she must make the impossible a reality. Debbie, along with a group of friendly strangers, did everything within their power to get Tasha home to Violetta. “She (Violetta) was crying, telling me she’d left her dog behind, and basically, I decided there and then that I was going to try and find the dog,” Debbie said.

Luckily, Violetta’s granddaughter Kay had arranged for Tasha to stay in Romania, so she didn’t need to be found, just transported.

After finally arriving in County Clare, Violetta’s health declined. She was desperately missing Tasha and her home – making the fight to get Tasha home even more pressing. “We booked a moving company and brought her across Europe through about six borders,” Debbie recalled. Having gotten Tasha as far as the UK, requesting videos from the men transporting her every day, Debbie worried that the quarantine laws in the UK would stop the dog getting any further. “We managed to slip her into England,” Debbie laughingly said, “I then threw a text out into the universe and this beautiful English person on a beautiful farm kept her for a week with her own dogs”. While Tasha was staying in the UK, Debbie arranged for two of her friends to collect her by ferry and bring her over to Ireland. After arriving in Hollyhead, the group drove down to Clare to finally reunite Violetta and Tasha.

The reunion clip, which has garnered thousands of views across social media, shows the pure joy these two old ladies ex-

perience in finally seeing each other again.

Debbie explained, “if you listen to the translator in one of the clips she was saying to the dog “you’re my medicine I can get better now””. Debbie also mentioned Violetta persistently apologising to Tasha for having to leave her. I spoke to Kay, Violetta’s granddaughter, who talked of this relationship so fondly saying “my grandma started developing dementia and this (Tasha) is her consistent link to the world”.

When I chatted to Kay, she explained how there is so much more beyond this clip than meets the eye. “Her (Violetta) story is very unique,” Kay explained. The home that Violetta left in Ukraine was the house she was born in, it has been her family home for generations. It was also the home that Violetta’s grandmother passed away in, after it was bombed in World War 2. Now, the family don’t know what is left of it, and won’t until they return. Leaving this house has been extremely painful for this elderly lady. “It’s devastating for her – she’s crying everyday thinking of her home and asking if she’ll ever be able to return,” Kay said.

As well as the fascinating history behind Violetta’s home, there’s many more hugely interesting things about the woman herself.

Now appearing as a frail elderly woman, you would hesitate to believe that Violetta holds a PhD in biology. Kay explains that before her retirement, “she (Violetta) was in charge of very unique and innovative projects where they were developing new medications for liver disease and things like that”.

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THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Lahinch Leisure Centre ready to make a splash after €6m boost PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

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OLLOWING A €6M refurbishment, Lahinch Leisure Centre will reopen to the public this Friday (April 22nd).

Not alone has the facility got a new name, significant investment and different staff but it has also managed to put in place one of the finest views to be experienced from a treadmill in the country.

The first floor gym looks directly out onto the Atlantic Ocean in what is one of the most picturesque scenes any fitness enterprise in the world is able to boast about. It is also one of the leading leisure centres across the country when it comes to sustainability – more on this in next week’s Clare Echo.

Formerly known as Lahinch Seaworld, the centre includes facilities such as a gym, swimming pool, learner pool, sauna, jacquzzi and stream room.

Management have said up to 17 people will be employed at Lahinch Leisure Centre, 8 full-time and 9 part-time, the numbers will alter based on the season. Staff are locally based with one new member travelling from Hungary to take up the position. Promoting positive health and advocating the fun side of leisure will be their agenda.

Doora native, Eoin Conlon is the Gener-

al Manager of Lahinch Leisure Centre. He explained what caught his interest about the position in Lahinch. “Essentially it was the commitment shown by the Board of Directors, it’s a massively collaborative effort within the community, we raised €6m to refurbish this centre through various people including the County Council, philanthropic funding and from the community of Lahinch, Ennistymon and North Clare. Local businesses have also been very generous in their contributions, people know it is a very needed facility within the community, that whole social aspect really drew my attention”.

The “tireless work” of Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) and the Board of Directors plus the support of the community was acknowledged by Eoin. “The learner pool was one issue that was out of the budget initially, there was a lot of efforts from the community to get it included, then the funding was made available, it took time but it was put into the plans”.

There will be a wide pool of members signing up to the Leisure Centre, Eoin believed. “You’re talking all the way from Ballyvaughan to Cooraclare, it is quite a large area with places of Mid Clare like Inagh and Kilnamona close to us too. We know how important it is for the community and for children to get back doing swimming lessons, for local sports clubs to be a part of this process, there’s so many local clubs that will be able to use the facility”.

He has set the target of bringing in 650 to 700 members for year one.

"The gym was developed with TechnoGym so it is all their equipment, there has been huge investment in the equipment,

KEEP SWIMMING: The new pool at Lahinch Leisure Centre

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THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Joe Boland remembered as a 'visionary and innovator' PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

OE Boland has been remembered as a visionary and innovator whose actions left a rich legacy across Co Clare.

Ballylongford native Joe Boland left an indelible mark on Co Clare during his 23 year tenure as County Manager, a role which is now known as the Chief Executive of Clare County Council. He arrived in Co Clare on April 1st 1960 and resided here for the next 62 years turning down a Government nomination for a senior post in Brussels as Ireland entered what was then the EEC and is now the European Union.

He died on Thursday in his 100th year. At his funeral mass on Easter Sunday at Ennis Cathedral, Fr Tom Ryan described Joe as a man “of great vision” when it came to planning for the future. He noted that Joe’s term as County Manager resulted in a transformation of Ennis, Co Clare and local Government. The “great faith” of Joe was also referenced by Fr Ryan who told the congregation that Joe and his late wife Catherine attended mass every Sunday in the Cathedral.

Saving the Cliffs Were it not for his involvement, the Cliffs of Moher would have been sold to a German businessman in 1964. Before the arrival of a visitor centre, restaurant, shops and car park, tourists abandoned their cars on the side of the road and accessed the Cliffs via a narrow pedestrian walkway, admiring the stunning sight for free. Bord Fáilte Chairman, Brendan O’Regan alerted Boland that the German, Eberhard Kemper was looking to purchase a substantial portion of land at the Cliffs of Moher. Boland, fearing the land would fall into overseas ownership and not knowing how the land would be developed, began taking action to move it into council ownership. The Council began negotiations to buy the land fronting the cliffs and the field known as the Tower Field, with the ruined O’Brien’s Tower on it. Now, the local authority owns 34.6 acres, a little over half of what Kemper wanted to purchase in 1964.

Writing in The Irish Times, Joe’s daughter Rosita, herself an award-winning journalist,

recalled, “My father knew that this was the vital piece of land to bring into public ownership. Notwithstanding the public right of way to the cliffs, land without access to the Cliffs of Moher view would be of no interest to any future private developer”.

Tony Mulvey covered Boland’s entire term as County Manager. The ex-Clare Champion journalist said Boland’s contribution to local government was “outstanding” while lauding his input in saving access to the Cliffs for future generations. Mulvey noted that developments in Ballyalla and Two Mile Gate also arose thanks to Boland. The value of regional newspapers and local journalists was always appreciated by him, Tony recalled.

During his time as manager, Mr Boland also held the position of chairman of Lisdoonvarna Fáilte Ltd from 1967-1983, director of Syntex Ireland (Roche Ireland), trustee of Clare Social Service Council (now known as ClareCare) from 1968-1983, director of Craggaunowen Project from 1972-1984 and director of Rent an Irish Cottage Ltd from 1976-1978. At the time of his arrival in the Banner County, there was thatched houses in the Turnpike, Joe as County Manager and Ennis Town Manager led the development of four housing schemes which yielded the construction of houses in St Michael’s Villas, Hermitage, Turnpike and Marian Avenue.

Tommy Brennan (IND) was an elected member of Ennis Town Council for 35 years and Clare County Council for 29 years. Prior to this, he worked for the local authority. “All during my time Joe Boland was the manager for most of the time, he was a gentleman, the greatest county manager we’ve had, he cleared all the dereliction in the Market, Turnpike, Gallows Hill and Lifford, he provided cheap sites for families to build homes and Council sites in those areas”. He was also credited with clearing dereliction from Abbey St and Parnell St. “He said to me one time, when you’re dealing with housing and you have rates you can do a lot of work when you’re bringing in your own money, he said to me one time a Council without rates is going no place”. w Prior to the centenary of the GAA in 1984, Joe introduced a community grant scheme in 1978 which aided parishes to put a field or community centre in their locality with

funding of £9000 provided. He also spearheaded the rollout of the West Clare water scheme, one of the largest in the country at the time, connecting Doolough to Loop Head.

Community projects Clare’s longest serving elected representative, Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) has long been an admirer of Boland’s and said under his watch the county was the envy of most others at the time. “He was around at a challenging time and he took up the challenge, he was an innovator”. The Lissycasey man said Joe was the first County Manager he encountered with a third-level qualification and lauded how he ran a cost-effective system.

“He was ahead of his time, in the late 70s, he led a scheme by bringing in special grants for community projects and this scheme put a GAA field into every parish in the county and two into some, I won’t say where. He was a motivator”.

Alongside Bishop Michael Harty, Joe set up Clare Social Service Council which is now Clarecare. When the Council held the responsibility of managing the health board, Joe also orchestrated the closure of Our Lady’s Hospital and the opening of St Joseph’s Hospital with the addition of a church to its building.

It’s almost five decades since Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) was co-opted to the Council, Boland was County Manager at the time.

“He brought a very modern hospital into use and closed Our Lady’s which was a decrepit horrible building. He was very innovative, very deep with a great mind. That time the councillors was a great mix of teachers, publicans and farmers, there was a great divide which is still there a little between town and country defending their own pitch, he had to bring the Council with him at a time when money was scarce. It was always a battle but he fought it well,” he stated.

Interest in the arts and culture was another trait of Boland’s, having served as Chair of Ennis Musical Society while supporting the Ennis Brass Band. Joe also paved the way for the provision of the construction of the de Valera library in Ennis.

Former Clare TD, Madeline Taylor Quinn (FG) was first elected to the Council during Boland’s tenure, she and Patricia McCar-

 TRIBUTE: The late Joe Boland

thy (IND) were the first female councillors in the county and received the “utmost respect” always from the Manager. “He was an outstanding county manager with excellent foresight on the future vision for the county, he was steadfast in his approach, an extremely able public servant with an entrepreneurial vision. He inter-connected his work closely with Shannon Airport and recognised the criticality of Shannon Airport to the region”.

Needless to say over a 40 year period working in local government, Joe’s contribution was immense. Ennis Town Council held a civic reception in his honour in 2013.

Joe was predeceased by his wife of 65 years, Catherine, and his brother Art. Loving father to his children Arthur, David, Caitriona and Rosita. Dearly missed by his niece Frances, daughter-in-law Anne, son-in-law Tony; grandchildren Lara, Sarah, Cian, Liam, Aoife, Lucy and Luke; great-grandchildren Bertie, Amelie and Bobby.

Special 'Bat Tiles' installed in Kilrush courthouse

by GORDON DEEGAN SPECIALIST ‘Bat Tiles’ have been put in place in the roof of Kilrush Courthouse to allow Natterer bats to continue to live in their Maternity Bat roost there.

The spend on the ‘Bat Tiles’ is part of an estimated €198,000 remedial works to the building that is now once more staging courts after a gap of eight months. Welcoming the return of court sittings to Kilrush, a spokesman for the Courts Service said on Tuesday “the protection of this roost will ensure that the Natterer Bats and their pups

can continue to reside there”.

At the first sitting of the court since last July, Judge Mary Larkin told the court “I hope the bats are happy upstairs and they are adequately provided as we are here”.

Judge Larkin said that she was “delighted” that court sittings have resumed in Kilrush. She added: “Justice needs to operate locally and be seen to operate locally.”

She stated: “It is terribly important for people in this part of Clare that they can go into their courthouse and see their judge and see law and justice operating locally because if not, it becomes some-

thing that goes on in Ennis or Limerick or somewhere else.”

The building works were delayed after the discovery of the bats last Summer. The bat is one of the rarer Irish bats and the Courts Service has installed the bat tiles to allow them access the attic space where the bat roost is located.

Last August, the Courts Service informed court users that Kilrush Courthouse would be out of use for September, October and possibly November after personnel made the rare bat discovery during a course of roof repairs.

However, the Courts Service

only sanctioned the first court sitting in Kilrush since last Summer last week after delays to the project that was estimated to cost €105,000 at the outset of the restoration works.

A Courts Service spokesman said today that the effects of Covid-19, inclement weather, structural difficulties and the presence of the bats all contributed to the extended time spent on the project. The spokesman said that the Courts Service is pleased that the works to remedy the roof structure and maintain the presence of Maternity Bat roosts is now com-

plete. He said: “We dedicated time, energy, and money to using the correct approach.”

The spokesman said that the presence of this maternity roost of Natterer’s Bat in such an iconic building in the centre of Kilrush was not entirely unexpected, and the support and commitment from the Office of Public Works (OPW) to the protection of this roost was excellent throughout.

The Courts Service confirmed that it has paid about €14,000 to environmental consultants and they monitored the works throughout.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

NEWS

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12

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

in association with

Green light for pet crematorium despite appeal from distant mystery objector

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by GORDON DEEGAN

LANNING permission has been granted for a pet crematorium in Ennis - despite objections from a sole mystery objector living 141 miles away.

An Bord Pleanála has now cleared the way for Ennis couple, Aimee and Danny Keller to build their pet crematorium at a unit at Gort Road Business Park in Ennis.

However, the project has been delayed by four months after an appeal was lodged against the Clare County Council grant of permission last November by a ‘Don Weldon’ from Navan, Co Meath.

In a response to the appeal by planning consultants for the Kellers, P Coleman & Associates raised questions with An Bord Pleanála if ‘Don Weldon’ is a real person.

The address provided by ‘Don Weldon’ is a numbered house at Ros na Ri, Commons Rd, Navan, Co Meath.

A desk top legal investigation carried for Aimee and Danny Keller on the person

purporting to be Don Weldon determined that the numbered Ros na Ri dwelling is the home of a Dawn Weldon and Ms Weldon is an employee of a Trim based pet crematorium, Pawprints Cremation.

In her submission to An Bord Pleanála, planning consultant, Mandy Coleman said that the Keller investigation involved Land Registry and Registry of Voters searches.

Speaking on Wednesday, Aimee Keller said that she was “ecstatic” to secure planning permission. However, on the question of the Don Weldon appeal, Ms Keller stated: “I personally feel that it may not have been a bona fide appeal and I don’t think Don Weldon is a real person.”

Ms Keller said: “It is very odd that someone from Navan could lodge an appeal and be concerned about local site issues such as adequate parking here.”

Ms Keller said that the appeal lodged by ‘Don Weldon’ did delay the project for four months. She stated: “What is worth fighting for is worth getting.”

The submission by Ms Coleman told An

Temporary barriers to tackle ‘errant drivers’

BOLLARDS: Parnell St

by PÁRAIC McMAHON TEMPORARY traffic arrangements are to be introduced on Parnell Street in Ennis before a retractable bollard is put in place.

Calls for the temporary installation of barriers “at the end of the pedestrianised section of Parnell Street to stop vehicular traffic coming up the street” were voiced by Cllr Mark Nestor (FF) at this month’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District.

Senior executive engineer, Eamon O’Dea

confirmed that plans are continuing to install a retractable bollard but their contractor is delayed by ESB connections. “The Ennis MD will arrange temporary traffic management to obstruct errant drivers from entering Cabey’s Lane,” he stated.

Some businesses operating after 6pm on the pedestrian section of Parnell Street “have had issues of cars travelling up the street when they shouldn’t be,” Cllr Nestor commented. His proposal was supported by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG).

Bord Pleanála that based on the findings of the investigation “our clients have serious concerns if Don Weldon is a bona fide person particularly given the fact that Dawn Weldon who is heavily involved in the Paw Prints Pet Crematorium in Trim also lives at the same address as the appellant”.

Ms Coleman asked the appeals board to dismiss the appeal based on the information provided without deciding on the planning arguments in the appeal.

Don Weldon retained a Dublin based planning consultancy to lodge a detailed 12 page appeal on his behalf. The appeal argued, “Our client has serious reservations in relation to the proposed development in terms of the proposed use in this location, environmental impact and traffic impact of this proposal”. The appeal also raised concerns over the site’s proximity to a local school. The consultancy firm did not reply to queries concerning its dealing with ‘Don Weldon’ on Wednesday.

In response to the request to dismiss the appeal, the appeals board inspector in the

case, Adrian Ormsby stated that “it is questionable why a person living in Navan would appeal the application”.

Mr Ormsby added: “However, the appellant has raised matters clearly related to the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and as such it is appropriate that the appeal is given its due consideration.”

The board granted planning permission after concluding that a pet crematorium is an acceptable use at the site and would not seriously injure the amenities of the area.

On Wednesday when contacted by phone at her place of work at Paw Prints Cremation, Dawn Weldon denied any role in the appeal against the Keller pet crematorium plan. When told that the appeal came from her address in the same of Don Weldon, Ms Weldon denied any role in the appeal. She said: “No, 100 per cent not. Definitely not.”

Ms Weldon added, “I had nothing to do with an appeal. We knew the crematorium was going there. That was it. They got their planning, didn’t they?”

NEWS 13

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

SHANNON NEWS in association with

€4.3m state funding confirmed PÁRAIC MCMAHON

S

paraic@clareecho.ie

HANNON Airport is to receive €4.3m under the Regional Airports Programme 2022.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Hildegarde Naughton (FG) told The Clare Echo last month that the funding for Shannon would continue under the programme this year and has now announced an allocation of €4.3m. The Regional Airports Programme is set to continue until 2025, last year, Shannon Airport received €5.527m under the programme.

Cork Airport (€5,462,385) has received the biggest allocation followed

by Knock (€4,760,485) with Shannon to get €4,347,750. Allocations to Kerry

(€1,084,482) and Donegal (€722,169) make up the total of €16,377,271.

According to the Junior Minister, the allocations represent “a strong commitment to the aviation sector” and to “support Ireland’s regional airports to remain financially sustainable as they prepare for growth into the future”.

Naughton explained, “This capital funding will support a great number of safety and security related capital projects, ensuring that airports can continue to remain compliant with regulatory requirements in these areas. I am pleased to announce also that, in line with the broadening of the scope of the Programme, a significant number of this year’s projects have a sustainability focus, facilitating the sustainable growth of the sector”.

Mary Considine, Shannon Group CEO said the funding was “a very welcome support as we continue to man-

PATHS: Purcell Park Photo by Joe Buckley

age our recovery. It will enable the airport to invest in vital infrastructure and rebuild in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic”.

She stated, “While we have made good strides in restoring air services at Shannon with 26 services to 11 destinations for summer 2022 secured, there is still a challenging few years ahead for the aviation sector. We are grateful for this Government support and will use it to continue to fund vital improvements to our airport infrastructure.

“Throughout the pandemic we have endeavoured to improve our airport and make the passenger experience more enjoyable and easier. We were the first state airport to install technology which allowed us remove the 100ml rule on liquids in cabin bags, and we are committed to looking at further innovations across our Shannon Campus,” Mary concluded.

Shannon rep seeks change in policy for dealing with overgrown hedges and trees

by PÁRAIC McMAHON A REVISION in policy surrounding overgrown trees and hedges has been sought by a Shannon-based county councillor.

Clare County Council were urged by Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) “to revise their policy” regarding the overgrowth of trees and hedges from private property onto public footpaths across the Shannon Municipal District.

In a proposal before the Shannon MD, Cllr Flynn outlined, “the current policy of writing to property owners and requesting action is a long process and in the meantime the public cannot walk safely on footpaths and this is bringing huge inconvenience to many people and especially those people with disabilities”.

Vegetation has been cut back along a number of routes in the past twelve months “where the overgrowth is public in origin,”

senior executive engineer Tom Mellett responded.

He said that the County Council as a Roads Authority must act within the confines of the Roads Act 1993. “This Act places the onus on property owners to keep public roads free from vegetation. It specifies how a local authority must approach this issue and the responsibilities of a Roads Authority in this regard. The Wildlife (Amendment) Act 2000 also governs periods in which it is possible to cut,” he explained.

Speaking at a recent sitting of the Shannon MD, Cllr Flynn admitted he was “bemused” with the response received which he felt was “more akin to me requesting roads be dealt with”. Mellett clarified that the Roads Act defines the boundaries and said a footpath is “still part of a public road”. Flynn replied, “My

constituents won’t make much sense of it, they’ll say you asked about footpaths but the road was the Council response. We need to be more proactive. We can’t be putting people onto roadways”.

Safety has been “brought into question,” Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) believed when recalling an occasion when a footpath had to be closed prompting pedestrians onto secondary paths in poorer condition.

Trees in dangerous conditions are leading to “expensive situations” for the local authority, Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) noted. “It requires the service of a tree surgeon which brings a huge cost factor. It is there and it is going to get worse,” he commented. “Maturing trees close to the footpath cause another problem, the roots break through and damage tarmac,” Cllr Michael Begley (IND) observed.

14 Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

‘It’s an artist’s duty to reflect the times’

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by PÁRAIC McMAHON DEL Meade, the singer behind “the most courageous Irish album of the year” is headed for glór on Thursday (April

28th).

Working in the field of jazz, folk and contemporary music, Clonmel’s Edel will present a performance of Brigids and Patricias in glór next week.

Described as the "most courageous Irish album of the year" in The Irish Times, Edel Meade released her stunning new solo album 'Brigids and Patricias' on International Women's Day 2021.

This new collection of original songs and spoken word reflects on what it means to be a woman living in 21st century Ireland.

Shaped by Irish history, folklore and contemporary society, the album draws on the stories and experiences of Irish women including Tipperary woman, Bridget Cleary,

Limerick aviatrix Lady Mary Heath and contemporary trailblazing women including Catherine Corless and Vicky Phelan. Meade's voice has been described as mesmerising or magical even, while her music is haunting and very powerful.

Standout songs include Song For Bridget Cleary, Long Way To Go a provocative spoken word piece addressing misogyny and the Cervicalcheck scandal in Ireland and Ode To Old Noll, a blistering ode to Oliver Cromwell who wreaked havoc in Ireland and sent thousands of Irish to the West Indies in the 17th century, among them, members of Meade’s own ancestors, descendants of whom live on the Caribbean island of Montserrat today. “I wanted to explore what it means to be an Irish woman to understand who I am as an artist. I felt I needed to look at historic events as well as contemporary social issues, and of course, I believe it’s an artist’s duty to reflect the times,”

Edel explained.

Edel’s performance will be followed by a post-show on Clare woman Biddy Early: Wise Woman or Witch, and the representation of women in Irish folklore with Dr. Ailbhe Nic Giolla Chomhaill and Edel.

Meade spent over a decade working as a professional jazz singer in Dublin, however, she longed for a deeper connection with the music she was performing and moved to Limerick in 2018 to hone her song writing skills at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at University of Limerick. The change in geographical location gave her the freedom to explore new musical terrain and to explore her identity as an Irish singer, Irish songwriter, and Irish woman.

These days, for Edel Meade, music-making is less about playing within the confines of a particular genre and more about stretching her abilities as a creative artist with something to say.

NEW ALBUM: Edel Meade

US book prize for Lahinch author PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

HITCHING FOR HOPE: Ruairí McKiernan

LAHINCH based author Ruairí McKiernan has landed a major US prize for his book Hitching for Hope - a Journey into the Heart and Soul of Ireland.

In existence for the past two decades, the annual Best Book Awards by the American Book Fest celebrate some of the finest writing from the United States and around the world. McKiernan scooped the top award in the travel category, which also included finalists from Spain, Mexico and the United States.

Hitching for Hope is part memoir and part hitchhiking travel adventure. It tells the story of the Cavan native's quest for hope during a difficult time in his life while documenting the stories and voices of the people he meets along the way.

Both Ruairí and his book benefit from strong US associations.

He has spent considerable time in the US over the years, including as a Fulbright scholar in Berkeley, California.

Unable to do his planned US book tour due to Covid restrictions, McKiernan was one of the early adapters to virtual events, which allowed him to reach the world from his fireside in Co Clare. With the support of Culture Ireland, he did over thirty online book events in collaboration with Irish consulates and cultural and community organisations throughout the world, including in the United States, Sweden, Hungary, South Africa, and Australia.

The author is also well known as a leading social innovator, charity founder, and host of the

Love and Courage podcast.

From 2012 to 2019 he served as one of President Michael D. Higgins’ appointees to the Council of State during his first term of office.

Speaking about the award, he says it came as a very welcome surprise, just as Covid restrictions eased and the world of travel opened again.“It’s been a challenging few years for everyone and the toll on people has been huge. The book was always about hope, community, kindness, about empowering ourselves and each other. So, while it was a difficult time to release a book, the timing was perhaps perfect when you consider the themes and messages. The stories in the book pay tribute to the courage and resilience of people and the power of community to help us through when the going gets tough. I think we all need to remind ourselves of this sometimes, especially in today’s turbulent world”.

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

‘Dazzling’ line up for Kilfenora Trad Festival 2022

lHUP: The festival is known for its many pub sessions

T

HE Kilfenora Traditional Music Festival 2022 will be held again on the weekend of 23-24 April.

This will be the 12th festival in a series that began in 2009 with the centenary of the Kilfenora Céilí Band. The festival is noted for great concerts and céilís, CD launches and pub sessions from Friday to Monday – with many free events.

Our main concert features the dazzling 4 Men and a Dog, supported by award-winning young fiddler Simon Crehan – get your tickets in good time!.

And we will have our traditional open-air entertainment on Sunday in the Square led by the mighty Kilfenora Céilí Band. Here is the daily programme.

Friday 22 April • Singers night in Linnanes pub (from 9pm), gathering together some of the finest and most humorous singers and storytellers, and hosted by Nóirin Lynch • Traditional music sessions in Nagles and Vaughans bars Saturday 23 April • Anthony Quigney CD launch – “Breath taking” – in Linnanes pub (1.30pm) • Riches of Clare Concert (Kilfenora Cathedral, 3.30 pm) with Nuala Hehir (accordion), Pauline Brody (banjo), Aine O’Donoghue (concertina), Aine Griffey (fiddle), Deidre Scanlan (vcls, guitar) and Carol Cullinan (piano)

• Hugh Healy CD Launch – “Ceolaire” in Nagles bar (5.00 pm) • 4 Men & a Dog in concert (Kilfenora Hall, 8.00pm, €20) with Simon Crehan – see details here • Star of Munster Céilí Band – céilí in Vaughan’s Barn (9.30pm, €10).

• … and trad sessions in the pubs Sunday 24 April • Launch of Paula O’Regan’s Music Tutor book (Vaughans Barn, 11.30 am) • Trad 4 Teens workshop with Josephine Marsh and Paula O’Regan (Vaughans Barn, 12.00) • The Clare Céilí Band (2.30pm, Kilfenora Square) • The Kilfenora Céilí Band (3.00pm, Kilfenora Square) • … and trad sessions in the pubs Monday 25 April • Trad session in Linnanes pub (7.00pm) • Trad session in Nagles bar (9.30pm) Music lovers should also visit the Kilfenora Céilí Band Parlour in the Burren Centre to learn about the history of music in North Clare and of the Kilfenora Céilí Band. This is virtually the only museum in the world dedicated to living musical artists, as opened by President Michael D Higgins in 2015.

Keep up to date with Festival news on our Facebook page.

Arts & Entertainment 15

16 COLUMNIST

Kearney Cooks

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

HONEYCOMB HEAVEN

S

O I come from a big enough family which means my kids get absolutely spoiled each Easter by their aunt, uncles and grandparents. You would be tripping over chocolate eggs in my house for a long time time after Easter.

I don’t help things either as I tend to go a bit overboard myself. What can I say, I am a giant manchild.

As a result of all this I can get a small bit bored of milk chocolate eggs, and I start coming up with ways to use up the chocolate. On my Instagram @kearneycooks there are recipes for chocolate ganache, chocolate pots and mousses, but this week for the paper I thought I would share my chocolate covered honeycomb recipe. Very easy to do and good fun can be had covering the honeycomb in chocolate with the kids.

YOU WILL NEED • 200g sugar • 80ml golden syrup • 2tbsp bicarbonate of soda • 200g of your favourite chocolate Step One Put your sugar and golden syrup into a pot and boil on a low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved up the heat to full whack and boil the sugar And syrup until it reaches 145 Celsius, or turns dark golden brown. When this happens

fire your soda into the mix and whisk furiously until the mix starts to bubble.

Pour everything into a greased 8 inch baking tin and allow to set for an hour and a half.

Step Two Cut your now set honeycomb into chunks and decorate with melted chocolate. I like to cover half the honeycomb in chocolate, but you can cover the whole thing or simply drizzle the chocolate over the top, it’s up to you. I

also like to get the kids involved at this point as this is a great bit of craic to do as a family.

Step Three Serve it up to your children. I recommend pairing it with coca cola or a double espresso.

Enjoy

Steve K

Clare Garden Festival coming back strong

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LARE Garden Festival will be held again this Sunday, April 24, at Ennis Showgrounds opening its gates at 11am. The popular event will feature a large-scale Garden, Plant, Craft and Food Fair as usual with stalls from all over Ireland featuring some of the old favourites as well as 18 new stallholders. All-day expert garden talks will run on its accessible stage. And there will also be large-scale outdoor demos as well as demos and workshops popping up all over the festival this year.

The venue Ennis showgrounds featuring a huge indoor arena as well as outdoor spaces and plenty of parking is conveniently located just off the M18 and in walking distance of the county town of Ennis.

Upon entering the festival gates at Ennis showgrounds from 11am on Sunday, 24th April, visitors will be greeted by quality plant and food exhibitors as part of the Great Garden & Food Fair featuring stalls from all over Ireland. Many of the Specialist Nurseries, Garden Centres, Gardem & Environmental Charities, Crafts stalls, Tunnels & Tool Providers, Visitor Gardens, and Artisan Food stalls will actively participate in the festival entertainment by offering demonstrations, children’s activities and advice in addition to their interesting and specialist wares.

Joe Lillis, Chairman of Clare Agricultural Show Society said: “We are delighted to see Clare Garden Festival come back in great strength and we hope that visitors will stay with us the whole Sunday enjoying tasty and healthy lunch options and making use of our free car parking.” He continued by

GREEN FINGERS: Clare Garden Festival

saying: “Festival manager Carmen Cronin is again bringing stalls from every corner of Ireland as well as getting more of our Clare gardening businesses involved. Over half of the exhibitors will be located in our large indoor arena with many others on our tar-

mac courtyard - so while we hope for good weather, our garden festival is ready to welcome visitors in all weather conditions.”

From 12pm the talks' series with expert gardeners will commence from the festival's main stage located in the indoors arena

featuring Organic Mentor Jim Cronin, Kloe Wood all about Flowers, Jimmy White of The Organic College, Rory Newell of Forest Moon Nursery and Jo Newton guiding beginners with her Golden Rules of Organic Gardening. A full day schedule of the talks is available from the festival's website www. claregardenfestival.com .

Throughout the day visitors can try their hand at Archery with the Archers of Ennis and other activities for young and also older including sowing a seed, traditional crafts, face painting, beekeeping and much more.

The afternoon will see live music with the return of the popular The FakeMcCoys in the courtyard.

After 3.30pm, the winners of the Gardener's Raffle in aid of Clare Crusaders will be announced. The festival will then winddown around 5pm with the organisers already excitedly looking ahead to next year.

Tickets to the festival will be available on the gate at Ennis Showgrounds on Sunday, 24th April, with adult admission of €6, children under 16 go free when under supervision of an adult and parking is freeof-charge. Clare Garden Festival is run as a stand-alone event on the premises of and in partnership with Co Clare Agricultural Show Society and the festival is proudly supported by Fruithill Farm, Clare County Council, Caherhurley Nursery, Ennis Municipal District, Ennis Tidy Towns, Gee-Up Soil Enricher and Mast Insurances. Visitor information and full festival details are available from www.claregardenfestival.com and for the latest updates on the festival join www.facebook.com/claregardenfestival.

FEATURES 17

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

GREEN CLARE

Loop Head hemp project the first of its kind in Europe

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

SOUTH-WEST Clare forum has launched an experimental project that is the first of its kind in Europe.

Earlier this month, Loop Head Together, a community based, local development and farming forum launched their Hemp4Soil, EIP, project at the Irish Hemp Event 2022, organised by Hemp Cooperative Ireland in association with Teagasc.

The exciting one-year project will explore how growing HEMP on the land of local farmers on the Loop Head Peninsula, could vastly improve the overall quality of the soil and benefit local biodiversity.

The results could potentially help create sustainable income streams for the farmers in the future, as well as providing a product, from which the offshoots could inspire local industry.

Hemp4Soil aims to use regenerative farming techniques to improve life in the soil in three ways, soil remediation, microbial life, and carbon storage. The main objectives of the project are to reduce the presence of chemical fertilizers, improve soil microbial activity, increase carbon content of the soil, and provide training opportunities and knowledge transfer along with community dissemination.

At the project launch, held in the Teagasc Ashtown Food Research Centre, Laura J Foley MSc, introduced the project concept, along with Dr Kate C Randall and Dr Lena Madden, who are working with Laura on the preparation and scientific monitoring of the soil, highlighting the many potential benefits to the environment, the farmer, and the wider community.

They pointed to the potential for a follow up ‘Phase 2’ project, which might look at a regulated roll out of hemp cultivation as a ‘farming initiative’. There will also be opportunities to look far more closely at the various off shoot industries and circular economy

solutions that could arise around the need to lock in the carbon sequestered by the crop.

Limerick native Laura who moved to South-West Clare after completing college, holds a ‘Masters’ in Agriculture, from NUIG. “Hemp has the potential to solve many of our environmental challenges in a way that is economically beneficial to farming communities. Incorporating hemp cultivation and regenerative farming techniques into our traditional farming system has the potential to reduce costly inputs while creating additional revenue streams for farms,” she stated.

Another exciting element to this project, surrounds the work of Ennis native, Sinead Madden, PhD Candidate from the University of Limerick’s Faculty of Science and Engineering. Sinead is researching Hybrid Computational Mathematical Modelling to ascertain how hemp can be used for carbon sequestration. Her initial findings suggest that a relatively small quantity of land devoted to hemp cultivation could offset a significant amount of National Agricultural carbon emissions.

Rural and Community Development Officer with Clare County Council officially launched Hemp4Soil. “This kind of leadership and drive for innovation in sustainable and climate aware practices must be contagious in Loop Head, as we see, on this project, the Agri-sector rowing in behind their tourism neighbours, with their commitment to sustainability. This project is a first in farms in Ireland and has potential to deliver far reaching impacts as it progresses. This is a wonderful demonstration of how a small rural community can lead the way in research and real-life practice for climate initiatives and potential carbon sequestration,” she commented.

The Loop Head Peninsula have won many awards for their efforts in sustainable and responsible tourism and with Clare County Council having now nominated Loop Head as their pilot decarbonizing zone, this project certainly aligns with Europe’s 2030 carbon neutrality goals.

 L-R: Dominc O Shea, David Maguire, Daniel Lyons, Laura Foley MSc, Dr Lena Madden, Margaret Cotter, Kate Carmody, Dr Kate Randall, Tony Collins, Eileen Delaney, Dr Robert Johnson, Fergal Keane, Ciarán Bonfil and Fionn Doherty

18 FEATURES

Clare Senator, Timmy Dooley (FF) visited Ukraine for the second time since Russia’s invasion in February, here he writes for The Clare Echo about what he encountered.

SENATOR TIMMY DOOLEY

T

HERE has been over 40 days of war in Ukraine since I last visited alongside my colleague Billy Kelleher MEP. This week as part of my role as Co-President of the Alliance of Liberal Democrats for Europe I visited Ukraine again on the invitation of President Volodymyr Zelensky's Servant of the People Party.

When we reached the Polish border we drove two hours to the city of Lviv, followed by a 10 hour train journey to Kyiv. In Kyiv, we met with my good friend Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna. I have known Olga for a number of years but have been in very regular contact in the lead up to the invasion. Deputy Prime Minister Stefanishyna was very keen to stress her appreciation and thanks for the hospitable and humane welcome given to Ukrainian refugees in Clare.

As the Russian forces retreated

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

'We saw bloodstained cars riddled with bullets' from Kyiv the people of Bucha and Irpin have faced the frustration and cowardice of the Russian military.

Those who remained in Bucha and Irpin had their homes shelled and when they attempted to flee they were shot senselessly as they ran from their homes by Russian forces. Those who managed to get to their cars were assassinated at point blank range. We saw bloodstained cars riddled with bullets, and the dead bodies had been temporarily buried by the local priest in an effort to prevent the spread of disease and the further mutilation of the dead.

We visited that mass grave in Bucha where civilians lay dead in body bags. While there investigators were excavating the bodies in order to gather evidence for what will hopefully one day be a case against Vladimir Putin.

It makes you think about the atrocities carried out in our own country and our own struggle for freedom over 100 years ago.

When we last visited Ukraine thousands of refugees were crossing the borders into neighbouring

countries everyday. Thankfully, since then the infrastructure on either side of the border has become much more humane and people are able to travel across speedily.

When we travelled across the Polish border this week into Ukraine I couldn’t help but notice that the flow of refugees has reduced drastically and we even noticed some people returning to Ukraine.

While the situation for refugees leaving Ukraine has improved, the destruction inflicted by Russia has taken a heavy toll on those who remain and what remains of the places they called home.

Having seen these atrocities at firsthand, it is even more heartwarming to see Ukrainian women and children receiving a warm welcome in Clare.

Since my return I have been working hard to ensure Government support is not lacking in this area. I’ve been in touch with the Taoiseach and other Government colleagues to ensure that appropriate funding is put in place to match the goodwill offered by the people of Clare.

WAR: Senator Timmy Dooley (FF)

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COMMUNITY 19

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Community

CONTACT

NEWSDESK 065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

LISDOONVARNA

ENNIS BUILDING VIBRANT COMMUNITIES - A VISION FOR PEACE THIS Sunday, Glór Ennis hosts a 'Gathering' to explore the inherent oneness of humanity and the importance of developing relationships for the creation of vibrant communities for the establishment of peace Conscious of the enormous global challenges facing humanity, a rising wave of conferences have, in recent months, been sweeping across the globe, bringing the well-wishers of humanity together to consult on how we can best channel our energies to promote unity and serve our fellow citizens by addressing the needs of our communities.

Madge Rainsford, an Ennis Bahá'í and one of the event organisers, commented, “Many people are very concerned about what is happening in the world at this time and the gathering will be a forum to explore how each

of us as individuals can contribute to improving the situation. People all over the world are participating in such gatherings so this can no doubt have a powerful effect.”

The Bahá'í communities of Clare, Limerick and Tipperary welcome all who are interested in bringing about positive change in their localities, who desire their neighbourhoods to be havens of unity, of mutual support and harmony, to join them for a participative day of consultation, creative activities, film, music and more, so that together they can start mapping a shared vision for a "new pattern of society'' and peace. “The event is open to everybody and there will be programmes for children and teens so families will be particularly welcome,” added Ms. Rainsford.

The gathering is on at Glór this Sunday, 24th April, starting at 11am.

ENNISTYMON/ENNIS A MOMENT OF JOY: Hydro Hotel staff organised an Easter party for Ukrainian Families after receiving hundreds of Chocolate egg donations from the local community and Lily O’Briens

Photograph by Eamon Ward

MACRA EVENTS ENNISTYMON Macra na Feirme will hold a club social this Friday night 22nd April in McInerney's Bar, Ennistymon at 9pm. All are welcome.

Clare Macra na Feirme will hold a table quiz on Friday 29th April in The Grove Bar, Ennis at 9pm. The quiz will be

in aid of three charities that Munster Macra members will be cycling from Mizen to Malin Head for; Make the Moove, The Irish Cancer Society and Embrace Farm. €20 per table of 4.

Raffle on the night. All are welcome.

Follow Clare Macra on Facebook and Instagram for more information.

ENNIS

SCARIFF

LOVELY HURLING: Jimmy Cooney (Chairman) and Martin Nugent (President) of Eire Óg GAA take part in the club’s clean up of their local area

SING: Ruth O’Hagan from Scariff and Jim O’Brien from Ogonnelloe during “I Shall Scream” from Oliver! at the East Clare Musical Society’s A Night at the Musicals in Scariff Community College last weekend.

Photo by Cealtra Communications

20 RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Lahinch Golf Club records profits of €1m

L

by GORDON DEEGAN

AHINCH Golf Club last year swung back into profit to record operating profits of almost €1m after a late season upsurge in green fee income. According to the 2021 annual report for one of the country’s most celebrated golf clubs, Lahinch last year recorded the operating surplus of €990,554 and this followed an operating loss of €303,199 during the pandemic hit 2020 - a positive swing of €1.29m.

In a report presented to members at Friday evening’s AGM, chairperson of Lahinch Golf Club, Martin O'Sullivan said that the operating surplus was “a very welcome turnaround from 2020”. In 2020 due to course closures brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic and the suspension of international tourist travel, green fee income plummeted by 88pc from €1.88m to €226,025.

However, the new report shows that green fee income last year rebounded and increased almost four fold to €1.05 million.

The US golf market is a vital market for the club and US golfers usually make up a sizeable chunk of the green fee income where it costs non-member golfers €250 for a round at Lahinch’s celebrated ‘Old Course’ during high season from May to September The golf club successfully staged the 2019 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open and counts former Irish rugby captain, Paul O’Connell as

a member.

In his report, Mr O’Sullivan said: “We benefited from a late season upsurge in green fee and shop income after borders reopened allowing us to welcome overseas visitors back to our club.”

The golf club’s shop income last year increased four fold from €45,332 to €183,169 and this contributed to revenues soaring by 92pc from €1.33m to €2.56m. Revenues also include members’ subscriptions of €1m and a Covid-19 Government business continuity grant of €235,071. Also through ‘prudent management’ of costs, club costs increased only marginally from €2.66m to €2.71m resulting in vastly improved financial performance. The club received €476,601 under Covid-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme payments in 2021 and this follows wage subsidies of €292,805 in 2020.

According to the report, the club for 2022 is budgeting for green fee income to increase almost three fold from €1.05 million last year to €2.8 million while overall revenues are budgeted to increase by 73pc from €2.56m to €4.45m. The golf club’s expenditure is budgeted to increase by more than €1.1 million to €3.85 million that includes an inflationary provision of €100,000 for this year. The club is forecasting an operating profit of €1.4m for 2022. At the end of last December, the club’s total funds stood at €7.54m that included accumulated profits of €6.24m.

RECRUITMENT 21

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

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Championship Preview 2022

Lohan behold: let’s be Frank about it EOIN BRENNAN

I

T’S fitting that 25 years on from Clare’s greatest ever championship feat of beating neighbours Tipperary in both the Munster and All-Ireland finals, the Lohan brothers are back leadng the Banner cause. As he was in 1997, Brian has take a central role on the field but younger sibling Frank is also part of the engine room that is the fundraising wing of Club Clare.

As the driving force behind the Club Clare Golf Classic over the past twelve months, he has witnessed the huge wave of support and good will behind the current crop at first hand.

“We’re delighted with how much people have embraced Club Clare, its membership drive and of course the golf classic which takes place in a fortnight’s time once more in Lahinch [Wednesday, May 4th] and Doonbeg [Wednesday, May 5th].

“We’re very lucky two such prestigious courses have partnered with Club Clare to host two great days for the benefit of Clare hurling and camogie.

“I can’t thank the three main sponsors Clare Civil Engineering, MD Sports and Zurich Insurance enough and of course all the teams that have signed up so far. We’re so fortunate to have such a strong backing that

we’ve been able to even emulate last year’s huge number of teams and we’re so grateful to the top businesses and individuals around the county who have lent their support so well.

“Financially it was so important for Clare but even the event itself, there was a lovely blend of past players, mentors and lifelong supporters mixing together and creating such a great vibe last year. “Particularly with the two years that preceded it, it was great for people to catch up and also obviously support Clare hurling and camogie.”

That support will be required in the stands too this Sunday as Lohan the elder leads the Banner into battle in Thurles for their competitive championship bow. With Clare having had a bye in the opening round, what were Frank’s impression of the opening weekend of action?

“It was brilliant to have the round-robin back. I’m a big fan of it as with two home matches for each county, it’s a great thing for supporters to look forward to and I’m sure the players too. From my own time as a player, to get the chance to play four guaranteed matches and the opportunity to show your wares on the biggest stage must be something that current players savour.

“The standout of the first weekend was obviously Limerick’s performance and the level that they’re at come the first round down in Cork, it was pretty impressive. Waterford weren’t too far behind, they probably had

a poor first half but really tore into it at the start of the second half to finally get on top.

“Tipp impressed too and had some dangerous forwards but it’s ultimately a results business and it was Limerick and Waterford that made the early running in the provincial race.”

Based in Oranmore, Frank was also keeping a keen eye on the new Henry Shefflin era in Galway which began with a frustrating Frank Lohan has been leading fundraising efforts with Club Clare stalemate in Wexford. panel. And we’ll need as strong a squad as “I think they would have been disappointed to not have come possible as Tipperary were good on Sunday, out of Wexford with a win. It was there for they have some very good forwards and the taking and they probably controlled the have had the underage success too to bolster match for the majority. I suppose like any some of the retirements they’ve suffered.

“Tipp also have a new manager the year county, if you take out the calibre of Conor in Colm Bonnar which takes a bit of adjustWhelan who went off early through injury, it ment and there’s a lot on the line for them was a sizeable blow to take.

“Over the past two years, Galway have now having lost the opening game. It’s a possessed the oldest championship team huge match for both sides really though and and that has changed this year as they’ve it was always going to be that way anyway tried to find a number of new players from because everyone knew Munster was going to be ultra-competitive and that’s the way it’s very successful underage teams.

“So while I’d say they would have been panning out.”

Does it make it extra nervy as a supporter very disappointed not to get the job done on Saturday, still a draw is not the end of the going down to Thurles that your brother is world as the claustrophobic atmosphere in over the team?

“Of course it does. With Brian involved, Wexford Park makes it hugely difficult place you’ d obviously be hoping that Clare do well to get a result from. So they won’t dwell on it too much I’d imagine and move on to the and that things go well for him. There’s no doubt that inter-county management is a next game quickly.” pressurised area, you can see that with all So what of Clare’s hopes?

“Playing your first two matches against the managers at the weekend.

“So with COVID and then injuries, it can’t teams that have already lost matches is difhave been the easiest time to be over an inficult but let’s be honest, there’s nothing easy in Munster anyway. Hopefully a few more ter-county team but Brian has just tried to lads can get back from injury as we were prepare the team as best he can and hopestarting to see signs of a strengthening team fully they get a small bit of luck on the day.

“As supporters, I think that’s what we’re all and panel over the last few rounds of the Nahoping too and also that Clare can get a few tional League.

“I think considering the amount of inju- results early in the competition.”

It would only add to the atmosphere of the ries we’ve had throughout the year so far, Club Clare Golf Classic on the first week in most supporters would be happy to get to that starting line with close to a full strength May.

2022 Championship Preview

Three U20s added to Clare panel

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

CLARE’S U20 hurlers managed by Terence Fahy exited the provincial campaign at the first hurdle following narrow defeats to Limerick and Cork in the space of seven days.

The side which contested the Munster final at the minor grade three years ago contain many hurlers with the potential to have bright futures in the saffron and blue.

Before the commencement of the U20 championship, four of the team were part of Lohan’s senior panel, namely Shane Meehan of The Banner, Scariff ’s Patrick Crotty and Clarecastle duo Cian Broderick and Cian Galvin.

Now this figure has multiplied with the addition of a defender, midfielder and forward from Fahy’s side to Lohan’s squad.

Full-back Adam Hogan viewed by many hurling followers as the next county fullback has received the call to join the senior panel. The Feakle defender was one of the top performers for the U20 side following on from a memorable campaign for St Joseph’s Tulla where he wore the number three jersey as they claimed the Dr. Harty Cup for the first time in their history, they exited at the All-Ireland semi-final stage to St Kieran’s College of Kilkenny. For both St Joseph’s Tulla and the Clare U20s, Hogan had the task of man-marking the main opposition forward.

Captain of the U20 side, Conner Hegarty has also been added to the senior squad. His

Conner Hegarty is among the U20 stars drafted into the senior panel

use of the ball in the centre of the field and decision making is one of his key attributes coupled with quick pace and an ability to cover a lot of ground. Alongside Cian Galvin, he was joint captain of the St Flannan’s

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

College team that were crowned Harty Cup champions in 2020.

Similar to Hogan, he played every minute for the U20s this year, he was prominent in their home clash against Cork compared with

their one point loss to Limerick. Coming up along the underage ranks, he primarily lined out in the forwards but following his exploits for Inagh/Kilnamona in the Clare SHC last year, he showed his ability at midfield.

Although he didn’t get a starting jersey in either of Clare’s outings in this year U20 championship, Keith Smyth appears to have got the last laugh. The Killanena stickman is the third and final member of this year’s squad to join the senior panel in the past week. He was behind Meehan and Hegarty as the third top scorer for the Clare minors in 2019.

Introduced as a first half substitute in both the Limerick and Cork games, Smyth scored a combined 0-08 and took over the free-taking duties from Shane Punch after replacing him in their clash with the Rebels.

Both Hogan and Hegarty were standout performers during the Clare SHC last season and their omission from the senior panel up until this point had been a surprise.

Hogan was brought in for an internal training match earlier this year and has continued to impress. Though, not confirmed it is probable that Lohan and Fahy had reached an agreement to leave the duo with the U20s until their championship had concluded with Whitegate native Fahy admitting last year that the former full-back was pivotal to him agreeing to accept the offer to become U20 manager.

Championship Preview 2022

EXPERT VIEW

Compiled by Seamus Hayes

PATRICK DONNELLAN (All-Ireland winning Clare captain) “The way the league has gone one can’t really read too much into it. In the championship round robin format teams will be focussing on winning their home games and then trying to pick up another win which should see them through to the next phase.

“Having an away game in Thurles is not the worst for Clare. I always liked playing in Thurles, Clare will see that playing in Thurles is not the worst place to go, in fact it’s a lovely place to play.

“Tipperary will see this as a home game for them but Clare will have a good handle on what Tipp have after watching last week’s game. They have had a few weeks since the league concluded to prepare for this one and this will have given them a good view of what they will be facing.

“Teams are so well conditioned now

and they are all using their bench well, bringing in five subs which is important as players are putting up huge mileage.

“I always liked having games close together, I would probably like to have a bit more of a gap rather than playing four games in six weeks.

“Limerick look to be the team, the dominant force. Waterford are looking strong, Looking at it with my Clare hat on, Clare have a very good chance to qualify. We have found a few players and all will be happy to give it a right shot”.

MIKE MCNAMARA (All-Ireland winning Clare trainer, former Clare, Galway and Offaly manager) - pictured below “Tipperary are favourites for this game mainly because they have had a game.

We don’t know our form and we will be halfway through the game before we see the game plan. Clare’s form in the league was indifferent and looked, at times, as if they were putting all their eggs in one basket which is Thurles this weekend.

“Limerick had to pull back in the league. They have been on the go for three or four years and it was no surprise to see them opting out of the league. If you need a fresh team for the championship, you won’t have it if you go all out in the league.

“Very often in a league you will see units gelling together.

We don’t seem to have seen that, maybe sectors improving. We have seen individuals playing individual games. Brian and the lads obviously have a plan in mind.

If your good players play well you will always be in with a shout.

“The problem facing Clare is to step up a notch from last year. If they do that they are a match for anybody.

“Sunday must be the only game in mind for Clare and the minds of players and management must focus completely on Sunday. Get over that first and only then move on to the next game.

Tipperary looked decent last week and may not be too far off it but I expect the couple of years work put in by Clare to show on Sunday.

LIAM DOYLE (two-time All-Ireland winner) “A lot have been writing off Tipperary but you can’t write off anyone. One would imagine that having had a game last week will stand to Tipperary. No one knew what their team would be prior to last week. They put in a good performance and were very close to getting a result.

They had chances to get on parity at least.

“Clare have had problems with injuries and that has been disappointing for Brian.

You would always like to have a

full deck and those missing are a loss as they probably would have featured throughout the championship. In fairness he has blooded a lot of new players and this is another chance to step up.

“Shane O’Donnell can adjust quickly and he probably has played a couple of in-house games. He has been through the mill, has the speed and the hurling.

We all know that he is a creator as well.

He will get into positions and he will find the space.

“Clare know Thurles as good as anyone else. Tipperary might have more support after a good performance last week. It’s a big game and Tipp can’t afford to lose again.

“There will be injuries and a week between games doesn’t give time to recover. The structure is fair. Years ago we were judged on one game. Now teams are guaranteed four games.

“Limerick showed that they are the number one team but there is nothing between a lot of others. They (Limerick) had an indifferent league, they might have been looking at a bigger picture.

“From Clare’s point of view, they have tried out a lot of players and a lot have been given chances to prove themselves...There were five or six games to give fellas their chance and Brian has done that. Prior to last week’s first round people were saying that Tipp would be bottom of the five. With the injuries Clare have and the way Tipp performed, they will be slight favourites on Sunday but anything can happen on the day.”

2022 Championship Preview

Owens appointed as ref

WEXFORD’s James Owens has been confirmed as the referee for Clare’s Munster SHC semi-final with Tipperary, writes Páraic McMahon.

Owens infamously took charge of the Munster semi-final between the sides last year at TUS Gaelic Grounds in Limerick where the decision to sin-bin Aidan McCarthy emerged as the main talking point from the clash.

During McCarthy’s ten minutes in the bin, Tipperary outscored Clare 2-04 0-04 with Jason Forde and Seamus Callanan raising the green flags during this period. He was not appointed to subsequent games in last year’s championship despite referees backing the decision unlike referee mentors and administrators.

Forty six year old Owens took charge of this year’s All-Ireland club hurling final and previously spoke of the impacts of long-COVID. Sixmilebridge native, Sean Stack who is now based in Dublin will officiate the weekend meeting of Waterford and Limerick in what is seen as a major appointment for the son of the legendary ex hurler of the same name.

Niall Quinn of St Joseph’s Miltown was on referee duty on Monday evening taking charge of the Munster U20 football semi-final between Cork and Limerick in Ballyagran.

Banner supporters dismayed by online ticketing system

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

A LONG-TERM Clare GAA supporter and former TD has said he is “dismayed” with the current ticketing system incorporated by the GAA for inter-county fixtures.

Tickets had to be purchased online or at Centra or SuperValu stores in advance of Sunday’s Munster SHC clash between Clare and Tipperary in Semple Stadium with the criteria also in place for fixtures in the U20 and minor provincial outings.

Remaining tickets are few and far between for Clare’s home tie with Limerick in the Munster SHC but tickets are still available for Sunday’s fixture against Colm Bonner’s Tipperary.

Difficulty was experienced with the online system when tickets first went on sale a fortnight ago while large queues were reported in Centra and SuperValu, both stores are official sponsors of the GAA. Official GAA sources have told The Clare Echo that the move away from taking cash at the turnstiles is a security measure.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Kilnamona native, James Breen who formerly served as an Independent TD for Clare hit out at the system which he felt was preventing genuine supporters from attending games.

Breen stated, “It is ridiculous that clubs

and the County Board are accepting this lying down. People that have went to every game all over this country are deprived of getting a ticket for the matches coming up. When club secretaries were working and had to do their business in the GAA distributing tickets in the evening, the club members managed to get their tickets.

Provincial council and Central Council delegates haven’t opened their mouths and they won’t, they are ok because they will get their ticket for their families, it is ridiculous, people will have to rebel against this system”.

He continued, “People have served their county and have hurled for Clare but they will be deprived of getting a ticket because they might have missed out online. People that have went to every game for Clare but they’re not going with the big and the bold to get a ticket for the games going forward”.

James said he has been following Clare teams for the past sixty years, he has managed to secure a ticket for Sunday but as it stands he will not be going to their encounter with Limerick. “We have to stand up, people have to stand up and be counted.

The officers of the GAA will have their tickets and they will have it for their friends as well”.

2022 Munster Hurling Championship Round 1 Limerick 2-25 Cork 1-17 17/4 Páirc Uí Chaoimh Waterford 2-24 Tipperary 2-20 17/4 Walsh Park Waterford Round 2 Limerick v Waterford 23/4 TUS Gaelic Grounds @ 7pm Tipperary v Clare 24/4 Semple Stadium @ 2pm Round 3 Cork v Clare 1/5 Semple Stadium @ 2pm Limerick v Tipperary 8/5 TUS Gaelic Grounds @ 2pm Round 4 Clare v Limerick 15/5 Cusack Park Ennis @ 4pm Waterford v Cork 15/5 Walsh Park @ 2pm Round 5 Tipperary v Cork 22/5 Semple Stadium Thurles Clare v Waterford 22/5 Cusack Park Ennis Final 5/6 @ 4pm

Championship Preview 2022

Hayes braced for new battle EOIN BRENNAN

T

HE fact that this is Rory Hayes’ first taste of provincial round-robin action only adds to the Wolfe Tones’ clubman’s anticipation of Sunday’s lift-off in Thurles. Part of the panel in a memorable 2018 Munster campaign that incidentally included a first championship victory over Tipperary on away soil in 90 years, Hayes made his senior debut in the subsequent All-Ireland Quarter-Final against Wexford and also featured from the bench against Galway in the semi-final replay.

However, a combination of injuries, travels and then COVID conspired to ensure that the versatile defender has been limited to knock-out fare since. Not that he’s complaining as the past two seasons under fellow Shannon native Brian Lohan have seen him been an ever-present for the Banner, with his swashbuckling style at corner-back earning him back-toback All-Star nominations to boot.

“When you have a man over the

team like Brian Lohan and what he has done for Clare hurling in his playing career, he still inspires and squeezes every ounce out of you and in turn you’re going to play for him and the jersey. Looking back on the results last year, I feel that we’ve just been a little unlucky. I mean there was only a puck of the ball between ourselves and Cork last year and were unlucky with some decisions against Tipp previously. In 2020, we were a team largely in transition under a new management and a COVID-stricken championship so it was a little weird going down to Páirc Uí Chaoimh playing championship in front of no fans and ultimately we just didn’t perform in the first half [against Waterford].

“So I feel Brian does get the best out of us, I just think we’ve been unlucky in games really.”

A new year brings new cheer for Hayes and Co as Clare finally get back to the round-robin format.

“Every player is delighted that the round robin is back but it obviously makes the championship more difficult too. Munster is arguably the toughest of the two provincial championships as there are some serious teams there and

serious opposition so it’s going to be a tough five weeks and hopefully more for us.

“As a player, you couldn’t but be looking forward to something like this as this is where you really test yourselves as individuals and as a team.

So while there are some big challenges ahead and we seem to be the underdogs for all our games really, that’s something that we’re relishing as well.”

What makes this format extra special for Hayes is the return of the capacity crowds.

“We’re anticipating two full houses in Cusack Park in a few weeks time and we’re traveling to Thurles for the next two Sundays so as a player, these are the things you look forward to and feed off.

“There will be nerves of course but they’re good nerves. I mean you have to feed off the atmosphere and energy of the crowd so we’re hoping that the Clare support come out with their colours and numbers and drive us on.”

Clare will need every extra impetus after an alarming successions of injures that saw them not even able to field a full 26 man panel for the early stages of the National League.

“The huge amount of injuries this year have given lads the chance to put their hands up because at times, there were so many players out that we needed everyone on the panel to step up. We’ve never had a full strength team or panel

on the field this year but that’s part and parcel of the game.

“Training is going well, we’ve a few lads back and things are starting to come together going into Sunday so hopefully we can hit the ground running.

“The good thing is that we’ve at least four championship games now and I think as the championship goes on, we’re only going to get better. By the time Limerick and Waterford come to Ennis, we could have 90% of our panel back fully fit so it’s about getting results early and keeping ourselves in contention by then.”

With both Clare and Tipperary installed as favourites to miss out on the top three in Munster, Hayes for one wasn’t surprised to see the Premier County’s backlash last Sunday against Waterford.

“Tipp put a stop to any criticism that they had before they even pucked a ball in the championship. There were being written off against Waterford so I think that drove them on going into the game just to show that they were no pushovers.

“Regardless of how they played on Sunday, any day you play Tipp in Thurles, you know it’s not going to be easy. The last time we played Tipp in Thurles was in 2018 and we managed to get a win then but this time they’re going to be a different animal. They’ve had a game under their belts and will be looking to impress on their own home patch.”

While Clare missed out on the first weekend, it has only whetted the appetites for Hayes and Co. to finally get their championship challenge underway this Sunday.

“The intensity in both games on Sunday were massive. They were probably a step ahead of the Leinster Championship games so the other four teams have all had a taste for it now. Looking at the weekend’s opening matches, we’re just rearing for road and I just can’t wait to get going now.”

21-04-22

Clare Echo THE

pg 27

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MUNSTER MINOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP, ROUND 3: CLARE 1-22 WATERFORD 1-08 AT CUSACK PARK, ENNIS

Players gave BOC ‘all the answers’ in Déise win BRIAN O’CONNELL, CLARE MINOR MANAGER: “I knew that we would learn a lot and that the game against Tipperary last week would stand to the lads and that told true this evening. There was a lot more composure, they had a lot more brief in themselves and to be honest, I thought that they were outstanding at times.

“We know what they’re about and we know what they can do and obviously we reflected upon last week’s performance and basically asked the players what happened and how they felt when the goals went in against Tipperary. They gave us all the answers that night and did so again on the field this evening and we’re really delighted with that performance.

“Obviously there’s still plenty of things to improve on but were progressing which is the most im-portant thing.

To be honest, I wasn’t one hundred per cent certain what to expect the first day. They’re only 16 years of age at the end of the day so we didn’t really know what we were going to get but they bounced back well today which is a great trait and they wanted to perform back in Ennis.

“We’re playing Kerry now next Tuesday in Cusack Park again and I hope that even more people will come out and support us because it makes a real difference when you’re playing at home and get a strong backing. And hopefully that will add to the momentum of hopefully getting to a semi-final”.

MUNSTER MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMP’SHIP ROUND 1: CLARE 4-18 WATERFORD 0-04 AT SHANNON

Bigger tests ahead

Jack O’Neill gets away from Conor Tobin Photo by Gerard O’Neill

DERMOT COUGHLAN, CLARE MANAGER:

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

CLARE Frees For: 9 (5/4) Wides: 12 (6/6) Scores from Play: 1-17 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Cian Neylon (1-5) Own Puck-Outs won: 16 from 18 (89%) REFEREE: Eamon Stapleton (Limerick)

WATERFORD Frees For: 18 (11/7) Wides: 9 (6/3) Scores from Play: 1-3 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorers: Jack Twomey (0-4 4f), Conor Tobin (1-1) Own Puck-Outs won: 27 from 34 (79%)

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

“It was very comfortable in the finish. The lads played good football and they moved the ball well at times. For a first game its very pleasing to get off to a win like that.

“They are fantastic players, comfortable on the ball and willing to break but not alone that, they are able to do the most important job, they are able to defend. When you have players like that who can break and do their own job as well, they are priceless.

“The way the game started it was 0-2 to 0-0 after nine or ten minutes but the most important thng is we played through that. The lads never panicked, they weren’t rushing their shots, they recycled the ball and when they found their range they kicked some good scores.

“Having said that, we did get a lot of time on the ball today, the pressure wasn’t there. It’s not going to be like that the next day and it’s not going to be like that against Tipperary. There will be more pressure, they will be kicking under pressure and that will be the test for those players.

“Limerick in Rathkeale, it’s a do or die game SCAN HERE FOR for them. They have MATCH REPORT home advantage and they are going to be going all out. We are going to have to improve on tonight, everything will have to improve, our workrake, our shooting, out option taking if we are going to get a result down there.”

Fahy upbeat for Clare hurling despite premature U20 exit

CLARE: Frees For: 18 (9/9) Wides: 12(5/7) 45’s: 1 Own kickouts won: 7 out of 8 Scores from play: 4-15 Spread of scorers: 8 Top scorer: Conor Fennell (3-02) Cards: None

FUTURE hopes for Clare hurling are positive from the U20 manager despite his side exiting the championship at the first hurdle.

Clare’s U20 side were the first to exit the provincial campaign following defeats to Limerick and Cork by one and two points respectively.

Manager, Terence Fahy acknowledged that they were guilty of failing to see out both games when the chance to win was certainly within their grasp. “We reviewed last week and that was the killing thing, we lacked a bit of conviction in our shooting and we left good teams in the game, when you leave good teams in a game they will always come back, there’s great learning there and learning for us, there’s learning for us and the lads, these lads are going to go on and do some fine hurling this year with their clubs, some of them will be going on with the senior team”.

REFEREE: Padraig O’Sullivan (Kerry)

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

Ian McNamara in action for the Clare U20s

While disappointed to bow out, Fahy was full of admiration for his panel of players. “We’ve a great group here, a group of fairly committed hurlers, they’re committed to the jersey and their hurling, for what they’ve put in it doesn’t surprise us that they deliver performances, they’re fine hurlers and are as good as what is

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

in the country. We played the challenge match circuit, we’ve fine players, the disappointment is raw, we were hoping to stay alive for another two weeks and improve again a bit more, it is disappointing, two big performances but two losses, one point and two points”.

Followers of Clare hurling will not have been surprised by

the talent within the panel given that they reached a provincial decider at minor level, the Whitegate man outlined. “This team was in a Munster minor final three years ago that is the reality, in 2019 they gave great joy to supporters as minors, there’s a lot of talent there, it is a pity that we didn’t make the step. There’s fine margins within the group, there’s nothing between Limerick, Cork and Clare but we are the first team out”.

He said that fellow members of his management, Brendan Bugler and Tomás Kelly were confident some of their players would make the grade at senior. “As a management team we reflected many times and we got great pleasure in working with them, the enjoyment we got working with them and they work in straight lines, there’s no diagonals or headaches, they are fine Clare men and that was reflected in their performances, some cruel lessons for us there and I look forward to seeing them go on”.

WATERFORD: Frees For: 17 (7/10) Wides: 4 (2/2) 45’s: 0 Own kickouts won: 6 out of 34 Scorers from play: 0-1 Spread of scorers: 2 Top scorer: Jake Power (0-03 3f) Yellow cards: Seanie Wall (4); Jack Power (37) Compiled by Seamus Hayes

Michael Kelly on the attack for Clare Photo by Gerard O’Neill

21-04-22

pg 28

MUNSTER U20 FOOTBALL SEMI-FINAL: CLARE 0-08 KERRY 1-11 AT HENNESSY MEMORIAL PARK, MILTOWN MALBAY

‘We have definitely closed the gap’ compiled byPáraic McMahon

MICHAEL NEYLON, CLARE U20 FOOTBALL MANAGER:

“The positives are very good after tonight like they have been all year, there’s a great group of players there who work very hard, everything we’ve asked of them they’ve managed to perform for us. We would be disappointed with the last 15 minutes, we were in the game, the challenge for all of us here in Clare is to keep closing the gap on the Kerrys, tonight is a step in the right direction.

“There is renewed focus on strength and conditioning from minors upwards to make sure we’re doing the right thing, we probably find that physique when we go out against the likes of Kerry we are probably a few percent behind them at the moment, that is something that can be easily addressed with the expertise we have in the county. We have definitely closed that gap over the last few years, it is great to be able to match Kerry for 42 minutes but we need to keep going and match them for 60 minutes.

“I felt we worked very hard at winning the ball back, we managed to turn over Kerry but our ball retention on some of those occasions definitely needs to improve, after a lot of good work we probably handed it back to them a bit too easy and that put us working again and we probably exerted a lot of energy in those early stages of the game

Eoin Rouine grits the teeth under pressure from Joey Nagle and (left) surrounded by a wall of Kerry players

which wasn’t there at the end. Ball retention would be my number one takeaways from tonight.

“Inter-county football is a serious choice, it is a lifestyle choice for guys, we’re lucky that a lot of guys do make the choice. It is a good choice, they get a lot out of it but it is not for everybody, there’s differ-

ent phases in guys’ lives when they need to commit to other things whether it is studies or whatever.

I wouldn’t be focusing on that side of it to be honest with you, we were delighted with the commitment we got from the group of players who formed a group of their own this year.”

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

KERRY: Frees for: 20 (12/8) Wides: 7 (4/3) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 1-10 Top scorer: Cillian Burke (1-02) Bookings: Enda O’Connor (59) Own kickouts won: 11 from 14 (79%) REFEREE: John Ryan (Cork)

Photos by Gerard O’Neill

CLARE: Frees for: 16 (11/5) Wides: 6 (3/3) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 0-07 Top scorer: Joe Rafferty (0-02), Eoin Rouine (0-02), Brendy Rouine (002 1f) Bookings: B Rouine (20), M Garry (32).

Own kickouts won: 7 from 19 (37%)

Clare Cup&GarryCup round-up BRECKANS HOLD TOP SPOT OF CUSACK CUP SCAN HERE FOR FULL ROUND-UP

Jamie Stack kicked the winning score for St Breckans in their one point victory against Éire Óg

Burren Eye Photography

pg 29

21-04-22

Woodstock junior boys impress

by SEAMUS HAYES

THERE were impressive performances from the junior boys team at Woodstock on Bank holiday Monday, when they faced Kilrush.

They secured a win in the junior foursomes earning them a date with Shannon on May 16.

Woodstock were pipped 3/2 in the singles with matches being lost on the 18th,19th and 20th. The Woodstock team members were Justin Mc Grath, Ronan Kilroy, Callum Hayes, Sean Crowe, Sam Montwill and Sean Kelly.

The members of the Kilrush team were Tom Clancy who won n the 19th, Rory Lillis who won on the 20th, Ruairi Young won won on the 18th, Evan McGibney and Dara O’Mahoney.

Jason Loughnane went off injured during Bridge Utd’s win

Photo by Cealtra Communications

Bridge Utd maintain winning bounce

by SEAMUS HAYES

B

RIDGE Utd continued their recent run of successful outings when overcoming Ennis Town while Avenue Utd’s chance to leapfrog Newmarket Celtic at the top of the Premier Division came undone due to a waterlogged pitch.

BRIDGE UNITED CONTINUE WINNING FORM Ennis Town 1 Bridge Unitd A 2 Venue: Lees Rd, Ennis

Bridge United kept up their recent winning run with this victory over Ennis Town on Sunday.

The winners took an early lead through but Ennis Town equalised through Robbie Gormley. A draw looked the likely outcome as the sides remained level until the final minute when Bridge United struck for what proved to be the winning score Scorers for the winners were Kieran Quinlan and Jonathan Downes.

Bridge United A; Paul Tuohy; Dan Larkin, Jason Loughnane Liam Buckley, Johnny Downes; Conor Deasy, Leon Daly, Steve Stewart, Kieran Quinlan; Brandon O’Halloran, Luke Shea; Subs; Leon Kelly for Loughnane (inj); Adam Fitzpatrick for O’Halloran; Jason White for

Shea; Trevor Maxwell for Stewart; Ronan Tuohy for Daly Ennis Town; Peadar O’Keeffe; Declan Ensko, Eoin Keenan, Johnson Munumkum; Emmanuel Ikiebey, Paddy Bugler, Adam Fleming, Jashar Aliu, Robbie Gormley, Lee Clohessy, Davy Keenan Subs; Dean Hegarty for Munumkum; Peter O’Brien for Clohessy

MCCONIGLEY BROTHERS COMBINE FOR SPORTING’S WINNER Sporting Ennistymon 3 Shannon Hibs 2 Venue: Lahinch

Sporting Ennistymon continued their recent good form when they accounted for Shannon Hibs on Sunday.

The visitors took the lead through Gary Leahy.

From the penalty spot but Sporting drew level before half time when Darren McNamara hit the target.

Cathal McConigley put the winner into the lead when his free kick found the target after half time but Hibs hit back and they levelled through Billy Connors with fourteen minute to play.

With a share of the spoils looking likely, Sporting struck three minutes from time through Cathal McConigley who hit the target after taking a pass from his brother Sean.

Both sides finished with ten men with Jack O’Dea

from Sporting and Hibs goalie Damian Casey picking up second yellow cards in separate incidents near the end

Sporting Ennistymon; Jared Gutherless; Joe Gallagher, Michael Leigh, Jack O’Dea, Kieran Monaghan; Byron Kenny, Cathal McConigley, Thierry Bouton Matthew Crowe, Sean McConigley, Darren McNamara; Shannon Hibs; Damian Casey; Ciaran McKee, Bobby O’Connell, Stephen Tuohy Gary Leahy; Darragh McDade, Pa Devanney, Adam Ryan, Stephen McInerney, Mikey Wall, Billy Connors; Subs; Thomas McDade for McKee; Julian Woods for Eryan; Zygge Wall for McInerney

AVENUE’S GAME OFF The game between Shannon Olympic and Avenue United didn’t take place due to a waterloggeed pitch in Shannon.

DIVISION 2 UP FOR GRABS Connolly Celtic 1 Rhine Rovers 1

Connolly Celtic and Rhine Rovers shared the spoils in this Second Division league tie and both will play in First Division next season.

The division 2 title is still up for grabs and on th is Sunday both face away fixtures, Connolly to Corofin and Rhine to their neighbours Kilkishen Celtic, both games due to kick off at 11am.

Clare clubs chase Munster U19 final

by SEAMUS HAYES

Two Clare clubs are chasing Munster U19 cup final places this weekend.

Tulla United will face Midleton at Frank Healy park in Doora on this Saturday where the kick off will be at 2p.m.

On Sunday, Ennis Town travel to Ozier park in Waterford to play a fancied Tramore outfit and they do so without the injured Thomas Collins.

Should both manage to progress to the final it will be the first time that two sides from the Clare league will meet in the Provincial decider.

However, both face difficult ties against Cork and Waterford opposition. Tramore have been handed the favourites tag to win this title and with home advantage they will be hotly fancied to overcome Ennis Town on Sunday.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: In the men’s singles competition at Kilrush at the weekend for the Pat Geaney prize, Robert Kirwan (14) was the winner with 4 points from Dominic Enright (23) with a similar score. Paul McGibney (20) was third with 39 points.

Last week the ladies played for the Anchor Crafts prize and the winner was Ailish Lorigan (18) with 32 points from Mary G Nolan (22) who had a similar score.

The winners of the mixed scraamble onGHood Friday were Brian Scanlan, Loretta Maher, Mary and Michael Bolton with 33 from Noel Kilkenny, Ailish Lorigan and Niall Pilkington with 37. In third spot with 38 were Terry O’Hare, John and Margaret Hehir.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The weekly ladies singles at Ennis was won

by Della Burns (19) from Ethna Murphy (31).

In third spot was Carmel Verling (23) followed

by Joan Cullinan Coote (37) and Attracta Williams (33).

The 9 hole stableford competition was won

by Ann Kelly (14) wth 21 points from Nuala D’Auria (17) with 20 points and Mary Woulfe (15) with 20 points.

The Easter week singles was won by Jean Moloney (28) with 38 points from Ethna Murphy (21) with 37 points. In third spot with 35 points was Ann Casey (28) followed by Betty 0’Reilly (36) with 35 points.

The winner of the 9 hole competition was Bridie Keane (17) with 20 points from Mary Woulfe (15) with 18 points with third spot filled

by Liz Kelly (22) with 18 points.

The winners of the senior ladies outing held onApril 5 were Mary McMahon, Margaret McEnery and Nuala D’Auria with 48.8 points from Bernie Brooks, Phil Butler and Carmel Verling with 49 1/4 points.

Last week’s senior ladies competition was won by Claire Kennelly, Threase Lillis and Mary Lenihan with 51.5 points from Mary Woulfe, Pat Lacey and Carmel Verling with 52.05 with

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third spot filled by Helen Hartnett, Jean Moloney and Nuala D’Auria with 52.25.

DOONBEG GOLF CLUB: In the weekly singles at Doonbeg Links last week, Donnacda Nagle (6) produced an excellent 3 under par round of 69 for 45 points.

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB: The ladies 18 hole stableford golfer of the year competition at East Clare last week was won by Loretto O Donnell with 33 points, winning on a count back from Noreen Skehan who also returned 33 points.

In the ladies Wednesday morning competition the winning team, with 39 points, comprised Marie Donnellan, Tricia Kerr and Mary Bugler. In the men’s 18 hole singles stableford competition the winner was Tim Walsh with 38 points from Michael Hayes with a similar score with third spot filled by Gerry Nugent with 37 points.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by the team of Seamus Mason, Terry Coughlan and Pat Duggan from Ger Shortt, Tony McNulty and Nick Ryan with thirs spot filled by John Nihill, Kevin Grimes and Steve Symes.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: The weekly Woodstock seniors outing on Tuesday was won by Paddy Meehan, Gerry O’Malley, Pat and Eugene Quinn with 45 points DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: Vinny Derham was the winner of the Easter weekend stableford competition at Dromoland with 43 points. Mark Taylor was second with 42 points followed by Darren Malone with 41 and Philip Alldritt, also with 41. Diarmuid O’Connor won the gross wth 33 points.

In the senior men’s section Barry Pavitt won category A from Michael Bennett witsh Michael Finn in third spot.The category B winner was George O’Carroll from Pat McGrath with Ger Ryan in third position.

GORT GOLF CLUB: The Monday open singles at Gort last week was won by Declan O’Halloran (12) with 38 points. Conor Shields (9) won category A with 38 points. Noal Hoarty (15) was the winner of category 2 with 35 points while category 3 was won by Naoto Nishio (23) with 38 points. Ciaran Coughlan (7) won the gross with 30 points.

CLARECASTE DAYCARE CENTRE Close to 50 teams competed in the recent golf classic fundraiser for the Clarecastle Day Care Centre, held at Woodstock Golf Club. Team Stephen Murphy were the overall winners, with Team Pat O’Brien second, Team John Mc Carthy third, Team Mike Liddy fourth and Team Declan Russell fifth.

21-04-22

pg 30

The Water Break returns for Clare Echo subscribers

Members of the McMahon family from Cooraclare accept the Ann Cheevers Memorial trophy in Galway

Cooraclare owned Lissatouk Peggy wins for McMahons

by MICHAEL MAHER THE Final of the Ann Cheevers Memorial A5 525 Yards Stake was the feature contest on last Saturday night’s card the stake remembered a lady who’s family are synonymous with Greyhound Racing in the West Of Ireland and who is much missed by her family and wide circle of friends.

As the traps rose for the €1500 to the winner decider both Lexis Cleo and Lissatouk Peggy were smartly into their stride and approaching the opening bend the led by two lengths from Peteles Countess. Turning down the back Lissatouk Peggy took a length out of her rival and at the halfway mark that advantage had extended to two lengths. Approaching the third bend When We Dream began to close on the leading pair but the James McMahon of Cooraclare owned Lissatouk Peggy railed well around the final bend and she dug deep close home to see off the late thrust of When We Dream by three parts of a length in 29.11 The outcome of race two was in little doubt from an early stage as from traps the Damian and Gary Pepper of Feakle owned Astro Kevin was very smartly into his stride and racing towards the opening bend the son of Droopys Roddick & Texas Clever led Wilbrook No Deal by over three lengths. Tracking well between the two bends Astro Kevin extend his advantage to over five lengths before eventually scoring by six lengths from Wilbrook No Deal in 19.26.

Race 3 was a Novice 350 yards contest which developed into a match from a very early stage as both Ballyea Rogue and Burnpark Ronaldo both broke smartly and quickly opened up a three length advantage on their rivals as they charged towards the opening bend. Rounding the bend Burnpark Ronaldo loomed up on the outside of the rail hugging Ballyea Rogue but the Noel Gavin of Ballyea owned and Declan McDonagh of Liscannor trained Ballyea Rogue responded well and kicking again went on to score by a length and a half in 19.37.

The Kevin Ryan of Ruan & Helen Vaughan of Quin owned Krystaline got off the mark in race 5 on Friday nights card at the fifth time of asking as the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained runner made just about all to score by an ever increasing nine lengths at the line in 19.47. Trapping well from her trap three berth

the winner opened up a three length advantage over Charmed at the opening bend and with bunching among the chasers she drew right away around the home bend for a convincing victory.

After a few near misses Lissycasey owner Martin Griffin got on the scoresheet following the S5 graded contest as the always prominent Room To Stop proved a length too good for Ballyhale Pat at the line in 19.32. Away well Room To Stop led on the run towards the opening bend from Burkos Hope and Killeshil Oscar. Rounding the bend the winner kicked three lengths clear which was to prove vital as despite the fast finish of Ballyhale Pat the winner was in control at the line.

Fresh from a double success at the beginning of April with Snuggie Rosie and Snuggie Archie, Myles Cummins and Breda Casey kept their winning streak going with another double on last Thursday night at Limerick Greyhound Stadium as Snuggie Bonnie and Snuggie Archie entered the winner’s enclosure. Bonnie a daughter of Sir Paddy and Snuggie whisper who celebrated her fifth birthday last January recorded a remarkable 19th career victory in 28.96 and Archie a son of Paddys Magic and Miles Girl recorded a career best with his 29.22 effort.

The opening race of the evening went to Joe Collins from Parteen with Shanakyle Abbie who recorded a fourth career success in 29.41, Abbey is a daughter of Droopys Roddick and Toremore Nosey.

There was two semi-finals of the Limerick & Clare greyhound owners and breeders A3/A4 Sweepstake, the second semi-final went to Pat Curtin from Mountshannon with his consistent Slippery Joe in 28.88, this was a twelfth career win for this son of Kisses for Cloda and Royal Diva.

Anne Carey from Cooraclare with Gower Jet and Padraic Fanning from Ennis with Speedie Syd will be representing the Banner in this final as well which will take place on this Friday night 22nd of April in what will be an evening not to miss with the Final of the Con and Ann Kirby Memorial stake attracting thousand to the Limerick venue. In what looks like a wide open Final my few euros each way will be on Kildare who runs from trap four.

MUCH controversy the introduction of the water-break within the GAA, while followers were led to believe it had been scrapped, The Clare Echo can exclusively reveal it is in fact returning from this weekend.

‘The Water Break’ is The Clare Echo’s new video podcast that will be exclusive to subscribers. It builds on the back of our popular digital coverage of GAA matters with the video specials well received by Clare supporters over the past two seasons.

Head of News and Sport with The Clare Echo, Páraic McMahon will front ‘The Water Break’ with expert analysis to be provided by a host of ex Clare greats, supporters and local journalists across what will hopefully be a lengthy campaign for the county’s senior side.

Monday’s episode will review the first outing for Brian Lohan’s senior hurlers as they make the trip to Tipperary.

Visit clareecho.ie/subscribe to ensure you get to make the most of ‘The Water Break’ for this championship.

JOIN US FOR THE FINAL OF THE WORLD’S RICHEST JUVENILE RACE!

FRIDAY 22ND APRIL

w MUSIC BEFORE & AFTER RACING w BANNER PARADE FOR OUR FINALIST CLUBS Delicious food, drinks & the very best in racing action awaits!

€80,000 to the winning greyhound

€20,000 prizefund to the 6 Limerick GAA Clubs Finalists

FIRST RACE: 7.14PM

Book now on www.LimerickGreyhoundStadium.ie

Join the chat on social media using #Kirby2022

OBITUARIES

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

Recent Deaths Davis (née O’Driscoll), Mary Labasheeda, Clare Date of Death: Tuesday, 19th April 2022 O’Leary, Mary Ballyvaskin, Co Clare & Millstreet, Cork Date of Death: Tuesday, 19th April 2022 Forde (née McMahon), Mary Ennis, Clare Date of Death: Tuesday, 19th April 2022 Considine (née Coleman), Alicia Cree, Clare Date of Death: Monday, 18th April 2022 Fealey (née Higgins), Mary Newmarket-on-fergus, Clare Date of Death: Monday, 18th April 2022

Hurley (née Corry), Mary Philomena Kilnaboy, Clare Date of Death: Monday, 18th April 2022 Meehan (née Cronin), Joan Newmarket-on-Fergus, Clare Date of Death: Monday, 18th April 2022 McGuire (née O’Brien), Noreen Athlunkard, Clare Date of Death: Sunday, 17th April 2022 O’ Neill, Kevin Quin, Clare Date of Death: Sunday, 17th April 2022 Lynch, Robert Kilrush, Clare Date of Death: Saturday, 16th April 2022 Lyons, Patrick Killaloe, Clare Date of Death: Saturday, 16th April 2022

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Boyke, Bozena Ennis, Clare Date of Death: Saturday, 16th April 2022 Brennan, Michael J. Ennis, Clare Date of Death: Saturday, 16th April 2022 Murrihy, Kevin Kildysart, Clare Date of Death: Saturday, 16th April 2022 Boland, Joseph (Joe) Ennis, Clare Date of Death: Friday, 15th April 2022 Foley, Máirtín (Martin) Liscannor, Clare Date of Death: Thursday 14th April 2022 McDonagh, Caroline (Precious) Shannon, Clare Date of Death: Wednesday 13th April 2022

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LISKET, KILFENORA, CO. CLARE Take notice that Diarmuid Nagle & Elin Granqvist, intends to apply for permission to construct a dwelling house, garage, wastewater treatment system and 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 SHANTRAUD, KILLALOE, CO. CLARE We, Smith O’Briens GAA Club, am applying to the above authority for permission/retention permission for the following development

on property at Smith O’Briens GAA, Shantraud, Killaloe, Co Clare.

(1) Permission for construction of new entrance and car park area to western side of existing building, installation of electronic scoreboard to the southern side of the existing playing pitch, installation of LED lighting standards to proposed new carpark together with all associated ancillary and incidental works (2) Retention permission for retention and completion of existing clubhouse building and spectator stand which differs from that previously granted permission under previous planning ref 11/857 together with all associated ancillary and incidental works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of

receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYCORNEY, KILLALOE, CO. CLARE I, Shane Tuohy, am applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Ballycorney, Killaloe, Co Clare.

Permission for the construction of a slatted agricultural building with an underground slurry storage tank for housing livestock on the existing farm complex together with all associated ancillary and incidental works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LACKENBAWN, KILLALOE, CO. CLARE FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS Planning Ref: P21-900 Development Description: Permission for six glamping pods, toilet block, car parking area, vehicular access, wastewater treatment plant, and ancillary site works Location: Lackenbawn, Killaloe Take notice that Elaine and Patrick Scanlon have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P21-900. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment

of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FANOREMORE, BALLYVAUGHAN, CO. CLARE Take notice that Vanessa McQuaid and Richard Breffit intend to apply for permission to build a new dwelling, install a wastewater treatment system & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address, this application will be accompanied

by An Appropriate Screening Assessment Report. 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 BALLYMACLINAUN, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE Take notice that Caroline Mantle and Adrian O Driscoll Intend to apply for permission to build a new dwelling, garage, install a wastewater treatment system & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONAMIRRAN, MOUNTSHANNON, CO. CLARE Take notice that Frank O’Brien intends to apply for retention permission for development at Cloonamirran, Mountshannon, Co. Clare. The development consists of retention of: (a) extensions/modifications to existing house, (b) enclosure/ modification if existing shed (c) retention of existing garden shed.

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.

continues page 33

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CLASSIFIEDS

ACCOUNTANTS

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

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CAR REPAIRS

Miltown Chimney Cleaning Open Fires, Stoves & Ranges All areas covered Fully Vaccinated and boostered Call Pearse on 085 1187811

LAWNCARE

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CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

ROOFING

RUBBISH REMOVAL

STORAGE

33

WANTED Seeking an IT Tutor for 1 to 1 lessons for a beginner in basic computer skills & use of smart phone.

Contact (065) 6719021

The Clare Echo Classifieds 087 9830736 065 671 0124 087 983 0736

TYRES

Call 065 671 9021 or email sales@clareecho.ie

PLANNING Continued from pg 31 CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLINGADDY WEST, ENNISTYMON, CO. CLARE Take notice that Alan O’Rourke intends to apply for Permission to A. Amend Condition No. 4 of Outline Planning Permission Reg. Ref 16-299 to allow for a part single storey part two storey dwelling on revised finished floor levels and amend Condition No. 5 to allow for alternative material finishes B. Amend the design and finished floor levels of the dwelling granted under Planning Reg. Ref. 19-852 to that of a part single storey, part two storey house and ancillary site works at Ballingaddy West, Ennistymon, Co. Clare This 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 THE CLIFFS OF MOHER HOTEL, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS PLANNING REF: P21/435 DEVELOPMENT DESCRIPTION: the construction of extension to existing hotel, associated site works and services.

LOCATION: The Cliffs of Moher Hotel, Liscannor, Co. Clare.

Take notice that The Cliffs of Moher Hotel Ltd. have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P21/435. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL STRAND LINE KILKEE CO. CLARE Take notice that Ken O’Connell intends to apply to Clare County Council for planning permission the following development at St Joseph’s Strand Line Kilkee Co Clare

1 Demolition of existing single storey dwelling 2 Construction of new 3 storey private residence and 3 All associated site works including connection to public services The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL SHANBALLYSALLAGH, TUBBER, 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 Fergal O’Grady & Catriona Chambers for permission to construct a dwelling house, garage, waste-water treatment system and soil polishing filter together with all ancillary 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

34

PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES APRIL 21st

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4/20/22, 8:52 AM

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The Clare Echo Crossword Daily Quick Crossword: 20 April 2022 ,4/20/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

SUDOKU

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.

WORD SEARCH

4/20/22, 8:52 AM

Supporting Journalism in Clare

QUIZ 35

THURSDAY, APR 21 2022

The Clare Echo Quiz

population of Clare pre-famOlympic 800m winner and world 1The ine was: 6 record holder David Rushida was pictured wearing a Clare jersey at 94,000 192,000 212,000

Mooghaun Hill-Fort is the site of 2 a prehistoric walled village and is regarded as the oldest ring fort of its kind in Europe. Is it in: Tulla Newmarket on Fergus Carron

Who said of The Burren: “It is 3 a country where there is not enough water to drown a man,

wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury him.”

Oliver Cromwell Edmund Ludlow Boris Johnson

which school? Ennistymon Vocational School St Caimin’s or St Joseph’s Spanish Point

The St Peter & St Paul Cathedral 7 in Ennis is the 11th tallest spire in Ireland. But how tall is it?

226ft 326ft 426ft

Moneypoint power station chim8 neys are 715ft tall. Where does it rank in terms of Ireland’s tallest structures?

First Third Fifth

The Shannon hydroelectric Michael “Sonnie” Murphy, who 9 scheme cost the equivalent to 4 competed in the 3,000m Steeone fifth of the Irish state’s annual plechase at the 1932 Olympics was Ennis Clarecastle Kilnaboy

budget, which was £5.2m £15.2m £25.2m

l QUESTION 1: What was the population of Clare pre-famine?

Which area in Clare is home to Patrick Joseph “Pat” McDonald 5 who won a gold medal in the 1920 10 the Slow Worm, one of IreOlympics for shotput and worked as land’s only two reptiles.

Doonbeg Killaloe Tuamgraney

Doonbeg dunes The Burren Shannon Estuary

Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

ANSWERS 6. Ennistymon Vocational School 7. 226ft 8. Fifth 9. £5.2m 10. The Burren

a traffic cop in Times Square, was born in:

1. 212,000 2. Newmarket-on-Fergus 3. Edmund Ludlow 4. Kilnaboy 5. Doonbeg

from

Last weeks Answers . String missing on hoody (left) . Crest missing (right) . Numbers missing on board in background (right)

. o’neills missing on top (front) . Jacket different colour in background . Skirting board missing in background . text missing on yellow poster in background

Brian McNamara Clare v Kerry u20 Photo by Gerard O’Neill