The Clare Echo 21/07/22 by The Clare Echo

065 671 9021

clareecho.ie

JUL 21 2022

PRIDE OF THE PARISH

‘Elderly AIB customers will keep cash FRTHEEIS INISSSUIDEE at home’ A EDITION 3 Jul/Aug ‘22

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

Thomas O’Sullivan flies the Cratloe flag at the Clare Community Games at Lee’s Rd

IB’s decision to go cashless in 70 branches including Ennistymon, Killaloe, Kilrush and Shannon has been branded a “blow to rural Ireland”. Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) has called for the

decision to be reversed, saying, “If AIB move to a cashless system, we will see more elderly people resorting to keeping savings in cash at home – thus making them very vulnerable to robbery.”

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

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

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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

lRECORD BREAKING WEATHER: Former RTÉ journalist Charlie Bird pictured with Bridie Treacy (82), mother of well-known Scariff photographer James Treacy in Doolin. Charlie was among those that travelled from Doolin to the Aran Islands Photo by James Treacy

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TEMPERATURES surpassed 30c in Co Clare this week, writes Páraic McMahon. On Monday, Met Éireann recorded the highest temperature in Ireland for more than 135 years when the monitoring station at Phoneix Park reached 33°, the hottest conditions on record since 1887. At Met Éireann’s weather station in Shannon Airport, the county recorded its warmest temperatures of the year with a high of 30.4 degrees at 3pm on Monday, it was exactly one year previous since temperatures hit the thirty degree mark in Clare. The 32° from 28th June 2019 remains the hottest day in the county since 1976. Sunshine brought with it an increase in business to coastal parts of the county. While Lahinch and Kilkee had strong footfall, they were not exceptionally busy with local business personnel pointing to Limerick’s involvement in the All-Ireland SHC final as a factor. Doolin proved to be a popular spot with many individuals making the trip to the Aran Islands. Weekend temperatures in Clare are expected to be around the 20° mark, but there will be thundery downpours with a risk of localised flooding.

Digital hub to be relocated by PÁRAIC McMAHON

ILRUSH'S digital hub is to be relocated due to increasing demand for the

facility. Officially opened in March 2018, the Kilrush Hub which is part of the DigiClare network was among the measures contained in the Clare County Council Digital Strategy, which seeks to provide communities with access to broadband infrastructure and facilities. Since opening, the facilities have proved extremely popular with all sectors of the community, providing a flexible working environment for residents, community groups, local enterprises and entrepreneurs to work and collaborate, and to avail of meeting rooms with high-speed internet connectivity and full audio-visual facilities. Summer time has always

seen the Kilrush facility experience a substantial increase in bookings with tourists visiting West Clare. A spokesperson for Clare County Council confirmed to The Clare Echo that the local authority was in the process of upgrading the facilities and relocating to a new premises at the Merchants Quay building in Kilrush. “The new upgrad-

ed facilities will now include a number of small business units, meeting rooms, private flexible pods, hot desks, privacy booths and canteen facilities. These facilities will be available to the public. While the hot desks and flexible office space can be booked online at www.digiclare.ie, persons interested in leasing one of the small business units available should email hubs@clarecoco.ie”.

lHOT DESKS: Kilrush Digital Hub

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Lahinch or Lehinch? Heathrow flight cut - calls for referendum by PÁRAIC McMAHON

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

lLahinch

paraic@clareecho.ie

AHINCH’S “identity crisis” could be solved in two years with increasing calls for a referendum to determine its correct spelling. In 2012, the name of Lahinch on road signs was changed to Lehinch. The coastal spot has been known as Lahinch since the 1850s. For the 2024 local election, an extra ballot paper may yet be appearing in North-West Clare where constituents will be asked to give their say on what spelling should be prescribed for the coastal location. Director of Services with the Council, Leonard Cleary previously explained, “The last time it was discussed, it was suggested that there be a pilot. A plebiscite is a vote in specific townland, often it can happen at time of local election with an extra ballot paper, there is a very prescribed way for how it is done”. Local hotelier, Michael Vaughan quipped the appearance of Lehinch on road signs represents an “identity crisis” for the area. He recounted claims that it would cost in ex-

cess of €10,000 to change the spelling to Lahinch on official signs. “We all want it to be spelt the way it was,” Vaughan commented. ‘Vigilantes’ have over the past decade taken matters into their own hands by adding an ‘A’ instead of the ‘E’ on signs so that the Lehinch is replaced by Lahinch.

Reports are circulating locally that the matter will be solved once and for all when the public go to the polls for the 2024 local elections, but "no decision has been taken to date on the holding of a plebiscite," according to a spokesperson for Clare County Council.

AER LINGUS IS to pull one daily flight from Shannon Airport in order to meet a Heathrow Airport cap on passenger numbers. Airlines have been instructed to cut flights from Heathrow in order to bring the number of outgoing passengers moving through the airport down to 100,000 a day between now and September 11. According to airlines, the London hub has threatened legal action if voluntary flight cuts are not forthcoming. One of Aer Lingus' daily flights to Shannon from Heathrow (7:20pm) will be culled this week. This is Aer Lingus’ last flight of the day, passengers returning to Shannon will now have to try avail of the 9:20am or 2:45pm service which is likely to present headaches for businesspeople accessing the Mid-West and London. Aer Lingus will try to minimise disruption to passengers on the flights by reallocating them where possible to one of its other flights out of Heathrow. A spokeswoman confirmed it was “contacting impacted customers directly to apologise, advise them of their customer rights and offer options including rebooking or refund”. Over the weekend, Aer Lingus was forced to cancel 17 flights due to the Heathrow cap, staff illness and industrial action.

'Steady decline' prompts lay people appointments ADDITION of lay people to the Ministry of Pastoral Care and Ministry of Catechist are among the Killaloe Diocesan appointments announced by the Bishop, writes Páraic McMahon. A steady decline in priests prompted the decision of 2018 to introduce two new lay ministries in the Killaoe Diocese. The new ministries are to work alongside priests in parishes widening the reach in local communities and “easing the burden of work on the diminishing number

of priests in the Diocese,” Bishop Fintan Monahan (inset) explained. Lay people in the Ministry of Pastoral Care will visit those who are ill or elderly at home or in nursing homes and having a special care for those who are isolated or on their own in the community. They will be available help families at times of funerals and prepare liturgies.

Their counterparts in the Ministry of Catechist will assist the public with faith development. “This ministry will take different forms depending on local needs, reaching out to families at significant moments in the family faith story,” the Bishop said. Appointments announced by Bishop Monahan take effect from August 26th and are to run for a duration of three years. Ministry of Pastoral Care appointments include Catherine Brigdale (Crusheen, Ruan, Corofin, Tubber), Ríona Browne (Crusheen, Ruan, Corofin, Tubber), Michael Daly (Scarriff,

Ogonelloe, Feakle, Killenena, Mounshannon, Tuamgraney and Bodyke), Bernadette Daniels (Clarecastle, Carrigoran, Bedford Row), Maura Falsey (Kilrush, Kilmihil, Cooraclare, Killimer), Lucy Kearney (Crusheen, Ruan, Corofin, Tubber), Margaret McInerney (Shannon, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Carrigoran), Rita O’Dwyer (Miltown Malbay, Mullagh) and Anne Marie Sheedy (Sixmilebridge, Kilmurry). More specific roles have been identified for those in the Ministry of Catechist. Support for sacramental preparation processes has been selected for Anne

Marie Custy (Doora/Barefield), Brid Meaney (Kildysart, Cranny, Coolmeen, Lissycasey, Kilmurry McMahon), Tom O’Dea (Sixmilebridge) and Bernie Torpey (Broadford, Tulla, O’Callaghans Mills). Also in this Ministry, Joy Hensey (Doora/Barefield) will have responsibility for preparing couples for marriage, the trio of Gerry Sheeran, Gerard Lynch and Jim Sexton will work across the Diocese to development faith development approaches, Carmel Moroney (Tulla, O’Callaghans Mills, Broadford) will focus on funeral ministry and bereavement support.

NEWS

'We have nowhere to go' THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

SOUTH-EAST Clare family without a home of their own are on the brink of purchasing a campervan to house its four members who have been couch surfing for the past fortnight. At the beginning of July, Tim Morris and his partner Stephanie Fitzgibbon were refused in their application to the Department of Social Protection for an exceptional needs payment and have been unsuccessful in their efforts to be placed in emergency accommodation by Clare County Council. They exceeded the threshold for this having claimed for the working family payment. Prior to Tim losing his job in September of last year, the family had been renting in the private market at a cost of €1000 per month for two years. The family of four is now living off his wife’s income, since May she has worked in Uniphar in Annacotty. There is a risk that Stephanie will have to “walk away from a lifetime job” in order to aid their chances of getting help, Tim lamented. Speaking to The Clare Echo, the Bridgetown man explained that if they lived in Limerick they would be able to claim the exceptional needs payment but he flagged that different thresholds exist for Co Clare. Rising costs of living is making matters

lCOUCH SURFING: Tim Morris and his family in Bridgetown Photo by Natasha Barton

more difficult for the family, “We currently have two kids in crèche, we will have to pull them out of there to save costs, we’re going to have to take one car off the road, we have to cut everything. We can’t afford to buy any new clothes and we’re unable to avail of any help”. Letters have been sent to Tusla to try further their cause in securing emergency accommodation but no joy has been expe-

rienced as they have been unable to get a referral from the local authority. “At the minute we’re jumping from house to house, we’re couch surfing for over a week,” he said. Though currently residing at his mother’s house in Bridgetown, they have also had to sleep in their car and are conscious that the health and mobility issues of his mother means their current arrangement is strictly short-term. “She won’t let us

sleep on the street but she doesn’t want us there, it’s not good for our family”. Morris stated, “I’m upset, frustrated and angry. It’s wrong, we have all the Ukrainians are coming and getting accommodation but we’re being left with nothing. We have no options, go homeless or go nowhere, if I go back to work I can’t avail of HAP, if we tried to rent we’d be in a bigger hole. It’ll be September before I get on Council list, unless we find property we can’t claim the emergency needs payment, then we would only be claiming to pay HAP”. Outlining his hopes for his family, Tim said he is not looking for a Council home, “My long-term goal is to be able to provide for my family, to be able to put a roof over their heads and give them somewhere to sleep”. In a statement to The Clare Echo, a spokesperson for Clare County Council explained that income limits are set out in the Social Housing Assessment Regulations. "Clare County Council has no discretion in considering the applicant household’s income against these nationally set income bands. The limit for Limerick City and County Council is higher than the Clare limit and applicants can apply to one local authority only”. “Homeless emergency accommodation in Clare is currently at capacity however we continuously review capacity and need based on emerging circumstances. Availability of emergency accommodation has been an acute issue in Clare since March”.

NEWS

'We can't get a response from UHL'

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

Bed numbers unchanged since 2020

lEnnis Hospital

by PÁRAIC McMAHON FRUSTRATION has been voiced by the Mid-West Hospital Campaign by the failure of UL Hospitals Group to back up a commitment it issued to hold a meeting focused on overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick (UHL). Tuesday (July 19th) was due to be the day of the meeting with Chief Executive of UL Hospitals Group, Colette Cowan on July 6th sending a letter to all Mid-West councillors on the HSE Regional Health Forum West. Members of the Mid-West Hospital Campaign contacted UL Hospitals Group to seek an invite “but were told that only a routine quarterly business meeting was taking place and we were not permitted to attend,” Noeleen Moran of the group told The Clare Echo. “We cannot get a response from UHL on what is happening in relation to this promised meeting in which it was agreed representatives from the campaign would attend. The Mid-West Hospital Campaign represents families who have been directly impacted by the overcrowding levels at UHL. It is not acceptable to cause further hurt to these families by ignoring their request for clarification on the status of this promised meeting,” Moran stated. A spokesperson for UL Hospitals Group told The Clare Echo, “No other invites are issued to this meeting, which is held regularly as part of the normal business of the HSE in keeping elected members briefed on healthcare updates in the Mid West”.

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VERAGE bed numbers at Ennis Hospital have remained unchanged since February 2020 while an increase in attendances at its Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) has been recorded. A 52 per cent increase in attendances at Ennis Hospital’s MAU was observed in the two years to 2021 with a further eight per cent increase for the first five months of this year.

THREE major AIB branches in Clare are to be turned into cashless outlets from the end of September, writes Páraic McMahon. Cash and cheque services will no longer be offered at Ennistymon, Kilrush or Shannon. “This means we will not have notes, coins, cheques, foreign exchange, bank drafts; and will remove any drop safes and night safes,” customers of AIB were informed on Tuesday evening. Customers at Ennistymon, Kilrush and Shannon will have to travel to Ennis if they wish to use cash and cheque services or

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review in the unit within 48 hours. The MAU now has capacity to see 32 patients per day on weekends and 18 on weekends. The number of attendances at the MAU in Ennis increased from 3,740 in 2019 to 5,673 in 2021. HSE officials outlined the data and development in response to a parliamentary question from Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND). Ennis has recorded no change in its average bed numbers over the past two years with a decrease noted at St. John’s Hospital Limerick and University Maternity Hospital. Deputy McNamara was of the view that the MAU was relieving some pressure on University Hospital Limerick.

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Officials in the HSE have confirmed the recent recruitment of seven new staff with additional recruitment underway in relation to allied health, general support and radiology positions at the MAU. Posts filled include anon-consultant hospital doctor (NCHD), cardiology technician, three nurses and clerical staff member. The Ennis MAU provides diagnoses and treatment of patients referred with medical conditions including chest infections, COPD, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, fainting episodes, clots in the leg, anaemia, or non-acute cardiac problems. Approximately 10 per cent of cases may require admission to hospital and the majority will be discharged with a follow-up

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lodgement machines. AIB is to expand the range of banking services available at post offices. Withdrawals of €1,500 in cash per day from AIB current accounts, personal lodgements of €5,000 a week in cash and €50,000 for business customers by arrangement in advance, are among the transactions that will be facilitated at An Post. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Michael McNamara TD (IND) labelled the move as “a slap in the face to rural Ireland, particularly the tourism economy, as we face out of Covid uncertainty and try to focus on building for the future.”.

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OxyGeneration helps reverse neurocognitive defects of Long Covid OxyGeneration is helping to reverse Long Covid-19 neurocognitive defects. “While Long Covid is new, it’s already known by the Health Service Executive that it’s causing hypoxic (shortage of oxygen) “tissue injury”. The lasting problems are mainly in the brain with memory loss, fatigue, headaches and people unable to cope with daily functions. The Oireachtas Health Committee was told by Professor Jack Lambert, a Consultant in Infectious Diseases in the Mater Hospital that COVID-19 is causing “tissue injury” and neurological issues are the lasting problems. “It’s to be expected that COVID-19 and Long Covid patients will be urgently treated by the Health Service Executive at the National Hyperbaric Medicine Unit in University Hospital Galway as its chamber has before now, reversed hypoxic tissue injury in the brain caused by other diseases or injury” said Brian Lynch a Galway-based solicitor and co-founder of OxyGeneration a private non-emergency hyperbaric oxygenation centre on Merchants Road in Galway. It’s urgent to get on with treating the “tissue injury”. Waiting for clinical trials is unlawful, unethical and against the Department of Health’s Ethical framework for decision-making in a pandemic. In a manuscript of a book about to be published in August by Mr Lynch called “Invalid Informed Consent and Oxygenation it states: “A further legal problem for those wanting higher quality evidence is that in Ireland, the Department of Health reported the ethics correctly. They published ethical guidelines in March 2020 called the “Ethical Framework for Decision-making in a Pandemic.” The ethical guidelines on page 9 state: “Decisions should be based on the best available evidence at the time” “The clinical trial by Dr Mariana Cannellotto, the President of Argentina Association Hyperbaric Medicine and Research reported that the study was stopped, but only after 50% of the sample size. The study said that hyperbaric oxygenation “showed a marked benefit of treatment.” The book also states: “An absolutely crucial issue is to understand at the outset that some of these professionals mistakenly think that if they recommend to a client what is standard of care in their clinical practice guidelines and they practice to this standard that they are safe from being successfully sued. However, in this case, they are wrong because more

information is required for a legitimate informed consent….” Dr Paul Harch MD an American expert and author in a talk explained that how hyperbaric oxygenation is an already established method of reducing neuroinflammation and healing tissue injury. Some of OxyGeneration’s clients are patients of the Beacon Hospital Post Covid Clinic in Dublin and came to OxyGeneration in Galway because they were told about the benefits of hyperbaric oxygenation. 8% of clients since 1 January 2022 have been referred by medical professionals. On Wednesday 6 July 2022, the Oireachtas Health Committee was told by Professor Jack Lambert, that he “is still dealing with patients who were infected in March 2020 who remain ‘incapacitated’” “About one-third of our long Covid patients still have significant neurocognitive defects at one year.” The committee heard that it is less at 15 months, less at 18 months, but there is still a population of patients that just don’t get better” said Professor Lambert However, in last week’s Clare Echo, testimonials published from OxyGeneration’s clients reported stories of recovery after months of illness.

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Accommodation shortage impacting tourism revenue PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

SHORTAGE of accommodation is hindering Clare’s ability to fully maximise its location as a haven

for tourism. This was referenced by Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) who affirmed that there is “a serious defect in tourist accommodation beds both in Ennis and Clare” plus “poor transport links within the county to countywide tourism attractions in West, North and East Clare”. In a proposal before the Ennis Municipal District, he asked for discussions to commence between the local authority’s tourism department, Irish Rail, Fáilte Ireland and third level institutes in the Mid-West to consider developing tourism or student accommodation at the Freight Yard at Ennis Bus and Train Station which he labelled “a significant transport hub with national rail and bus network”. Flynn suggested visitor accom-

modation be built to use off season for third level students availing of transport link offerings from Ennis “such as the €20 weekly Green Bus ticket” to UL, MIC and TUS. Clare County Council is working with Fáilte Ireland on an accommodation audit report “which will focus on approved” stock, Acting Head of Tourism with Clare County Council, Deirdre O’Shea outlined. Transport management to support the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience Development Plan forms Objective 8a of the Clare Tourism Strategy 2030. The potential of ‘park and ride’ services is a consideration being examined under this. In line with this, a public information meeting was held on March 1st of this year with key local stakeholders in North Clare. “All feedback has been received and key themes of the challenges are emerging. The process or next steps is to identify what actions (a) are in progress (b) can be fed into a pipeline of projects going forward and (c) identify and address challenges and resolutions,” O’Shea added. Speaking at the July meeting

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of the Ennis MD, Cllr Flynn remarked, “Clare doesn’t get its fair share of overseas tourism”. He maintained the county was not securing sufficient overseas tourism revenue, “Tourism is either working for Clare or Co Clare is working for tourism and it looks like Clare is working for tourism, we are providing a lot of attractions and we have done lot of strategies”. One such document, the tourism strategy highlighted “a serious lack of public transport and lack of accommodation,” the Ennis native stated. The county town is pinpointed as a core hub and access point in this strategy, he noted. There is “a damaging impact” to the tourism industry in Ireland due to the “crisis with car rental,” Cllr Flynn maintained as visitors are having to pay thousands of euros to rent a car while on holiday. Transport is key to the success of the Cliffs of Moher Strategy which he calculated would have an €80m spend in the next decade. “Licensing policies should incentives coach travel from Ennis to the Cliffs and not from Kerry,” he said.

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Planning permission granted for new hospital B THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

ON Secours Health System (BSHS) is delighted to announce that it has reached a key milestone in its development of the MidWest region’s first large-scale private hospital with the granting of planning permission by Limerick City and County Council for the project at Ballysimon on Limerick’s east side. Having passed this critical juncture, BSHS - the country’s largest private hospital operator - will now proceed with immediate effect to detail design stage, with tendering for a construction partner to commence shortly and work on the site in January of next year. Built to the highest technical, accessibility and sustainability standards, the two year build programme will see the 150 inpatient and day-bed landmark facility just 600m from Junction 29 on the M7 motorway open in January 2025. The €150 million facility will be the single biggest investment in medical care in Limerick in recent years, addressing a significant medical services need, with the Mid-West the only region in Ireland with no private hospital at this scale. The commitment will also see specialities currently delivered at Bon Secours Hospital Limerick at George’s

Quay expanded, to include a medical assessment unit, cardiology and other medical services. These services, together with the patient centric approach and stunning design, will significantly enhance accessibility to world-class private healthcare in the MidWest region. The new capacity at the seven acre site, which is part of the wider Kirkland Development master-planned complex at Ballysimon, will result in a doubling of patient numbers per annum from existing levels at the Bon Secours George’s Quay site to 45,000 ‘patient discharges’. Employment levels will also double to 500 staff and consultants, with a significant recruitment programme to be undertaken, including targeting of medical care diaspora. Bill Maher, Group CEO, BSHS said: “Earlier this year we launched our €300million investment strategy to 2025 and 50 per cent of this will be committed to our new Limerick Hospital. That’s the significance of this investment for Bon Secours Health System in Ireland and our team in Limerick has made a compelling case from the outset for it. We’re looking forward now to delivering on this opportunity for the Mid-West and for Bon Secours to continue its high-quality care mission.”

lHEALTHCARE: L-R Denis O’Sullivan Group Director of Capital Projects at Bon Secours Health System Ireland, Dr. Siobhan Grimes, Consultant Anaesthetist and Clinical Director at Bon Secours Health System, Aidan Healy, Healthcare Director at Reddy Architecture & Urbanism and Jason Kenny CEO of Bon Secours Hospital Limerick at Barringtons Hospital

Photo by Arthur Ellis

NEWS

€6m Lahinch Leisure Centre officially opened 10

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

lSTATE OF THE ART: Pictured at Lahinch Leisure Centre (L-R) Cllr Tony O'Brien,

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council; Heather Humphreys, TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development; Noeleen Fitzgerald, Director of Service, Clare County Council; and Eoin Conlan, Manager, Lahinch Leisure Centre Photo by Eamon Ward

AHINCH was glistening in the sunshine on Monday with the official opening of a €6m revamp of Lahinch Leisure Centre. Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys (FG) officially unveiled the state of the art facility which features a 25-metre heated swimming pool, learner pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi. A two-storey fitness gym overlooks the Promenade and Liscannor Bay, with membership drawn from all over North and West Clare already exceeding 1,400 people. The facility upgrade is funded by the Department of Community and Rural Development through the RRDF, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), the TOMAR Trust, LEADER, Clare County Council and local fundraising. Speaking at the opening, Minister Humphreys lauded the “spectacular view of the Atlantic” which reminded her of Seamus Heaney’s poem ‘Postscript’. She said the Leisure Centre would “deliver so many benefits”, attract thousands of tourists and lead to the creation of many jobs. “Today is about the future and a fantastic modern

facility that is once again ready to serve another generation of residents and visitors to Lahinch, and the entire North and West Clare area,” Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF), Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council stated. Shane Talty, Member of the Board of Lahinch Leisure Centre and Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District said the upgrade is the first significant development on the site in more than 25 years and marks the beginning of a new phase of life for the historic community facility. “The first development on this site was in 1963, when a forward thinking, progressive Community Development Association oversaw the provision of a dance hall and outdoor swimming pool. "That centre operated for the next 30 years, until the mid-1990s when a large-scale renovation saw the pool modernised and enclosed and an aquarium developed”. He continued, “The revamped facility opened in 1996 and served the community up to its closure in December 2019. "By then, the structures had become dilapidated, the roof was badly leaking, and the pool plant room had reached end of life. "Only the trojan efforts of the then Manager Joe Garri-

hy, his staff, the Board Chair Denis Creedon and the members somehow managed to keep the centre open for as long as they had.” Head of Finance with Clare County Council, Noeleen Fitzgerald spoke of the “long association with this facility” and the local authority. Lahinch Leisure Centre Manager Eoin Conlan outlined, “From infants taking their first steps into the water to the swimming club, schools, adult classes and people recovering from injury or surgery, the pool is open to everyone. "Our fitness gym is home to the finest equipment in Clare and boasts the most panoramic views of any Leisure Centre in the country. We look forward to encouraging and advocating people to reach their Health and fitness goals for many years to come.” Through funding support from the SEAI, the facility is a Nearly Zero-Energy Building (NZEB) delivering approximately €100,000 savings in annual energy costs. Additional funding from LEADER programme has delivered energy upgrade works to further heighten the environmental sustainability of the centre. JADA Construction Ltd & Kelly RAC were the main contractors for the development while the design team comprised McKenna Consulting Engineers, Tom McNamara & Partners and Tipperary Energy Agency.

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THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

Local salutes lost in translation by PÁRAIC McMAHON

OCAL SALUTES are in operation for motorists to navigate their way through Ross Bay but this understanding is lost on visitors resulting in “a massive problem,” a West Clare representative has flagged. Addition of pull in spaces and appropriate traffic signs on the L2000 at Ross Bay “to manage the traffic along this very narrow section of busy road,” was requested by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) at this month’s sitting of the West Clare Municipal District. Senior executive engineer, Alan Kennelly in response said he would discuss the proposal with the “local roads overseer and I hope that we will be able to put in place the works required”. Cow dung was previously attributed with damaging the road surface further along the L2000 with Kennelly in November remarking, “While it is understood that cows need feeding and milking it is a fact that cows leave dung

lBridges of Ross

deposits in their wake. An unfortunate consequence is that if this cow dung is not removed from the road, over time, chemicals in the dung affect the road surface and accelerate its breakdown”. Other issues are now irking locals, Cllr Murphy stated, “This is one of those roads where locals are getting increasingly frustrated with the amount of visitors through the place”. He added, “Locals have sa-

lute to get past each other but it is a massive problem for others trying to get through”. He noted that the cow dung had led to a “terrible” road condition with the solution of getting the cattle off the road acknowledged locally. The Kilkee representative felt the provision of extra space and signage would form the solution for the current stumbling block.

NEWS 11

Sustainability and biodiversity ORGANISERS in County Clare are asked to consider sustainable heritage and biodiversity when planning in-person events and digital projects for National Heritage Week 2022, which will take place throughout Clare from 13th to 21st August. Details of in-person events and digital projects are now being accepted from individuals, community groups and organisations across County Clare, with sustainability and biodiversity this year’s themes. You are invited to develop and submit your heritage ideas and projects now for Heritage Week. The heritage projects or ideas are really up to you, regardless of how small or big the event. All projects submitted will be considered for seven different Heritage Week Awards. It is important to be inclusive and involve all the community, including new residents, and to cater for accessibility needs. Heritage Week provides an opportunity to showcase local heritage places and share projects that are happening in your community. It’s a chance to learn something new or share a skill, make connections within the commu-

nity, and raise the profile of the local area and promote the local heritage. In-person events may consist of walking tours, lectures, film screenings, exhibitions, craft workshops or other interactive activities. Digital project formats may vary from online talks or exhibitions to videos, podcasts, presentations or blogs, a dedicated website or social media account. Holding intergenerational craft demonstrations, connecting with local traditional skills, looking at sustainable reuse of materials, and conservation of old buildings are just some of the ideas proposed. Help to address the biodiversity emergency and climate change by building resilience in the community, show your efforts to manage areas for nature, the birds, and the bees, raising awareness of the local wetland or woodland or the local farmland and green spaces. Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien, said: “This year, I hope that the Clare community groups and heritage organisations get involved, as well as those who are new to Ireland’s varied heritage.” Visit www.heritageweek.ie.

NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

SHANNON NEWS in association with

Cutting edge FMCI launched PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

lMOBILITY: FCMI CEO Russell Vickers pictured with Tánaiste Leo Varadkar

Photo by Arthur Ellis

€5.5M state of the art centre which will enhance Ireland’s reputation for automation and shared mobility solutions has been officially opened in Shannon. Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) is the country’s first full-scale development centre and test-bed for mobility technologies. The facility focuses on technology research and development spanning ground and air uses. Projects involving unmanned drones, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL), Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), autonomous driving, micro-mobility, smart cities, and V2X vehicle communication systems are accommodated at the commercial campus which aspires to stimulate international investment and job creation, as well as consolidating Ireland’s rep-

utation for leadership in connected, automated, electrified and shared mobility solutions. Large and small-scale enterprise are among the parties supported by the facility, they range from individual researchers to multi-national corporations, start-ups and Government entities. Russell Vickers, CEO of FMCI admitted it was “very surreal” to be hosting the official opening. Having worked tirelessly on the project the effects of which impacted on his hair colour, the opening was never going to be a day Russell would forget, especially so as it was his wedding anniversary. “It was an idea on a piece of paper that we thought was cool, you’re standing in the cool thing today, some people call it the bat cave and that’s the look we were going for”. He acknowledged the support of partners such as Enterprise Ireland and the IDA for opening doors that are now moving forward. “It has been an amazing journey but this is just the start,” he outlined. Tánaiste Leo Varadkar (FG) officially opened the facility.

Ei help to buy ambulance

lORDER OF MALTA: Ei Electronics Chief Executive and Chairman, Mick Guinee presents a cheque to Carmel Peacock and Eavan Dempsey Order of Malta Shannon towards a new Ambulance, also in picture Gerry Murphy of Ei Photo by Joe Buckley

A SHANNON company has ensured that the Order of Malta will be able to acquire a new ambulance, writes Páraic McMahon. An undisclosed “substantial donation” was made by Ei Electronics to the Order of Malta recently with an official cheque presentation taking place at its Shannon campus on Friday afternoon. Volunteers within the Order of Malta in 2019 undertook the major project of replacing their existing

ambulance, however their plans were derailed with the onset of the pandemic. The unit relies heavily on voluntary donations generated from local unit fundraising campaigns which was seriously curtailed over the last two years. This was recognised by Ei Electronics who were delighted to make the contribution as “this ambulance is a real Community Service in Shannon and the surrounding villages”, Chairman and Chief Executive of

the company, Mick Guinee pointed out. Last year, Ei had a turnover of approximately €320m with 1,100 employees around the world, the majority of which are in Shannon. Ei has been fully Irish owned since Guinee led a management buyout from General Electric in 1988. It has customers in more than 30 countries, with wholly owned overseas subsidiaries in the UK, Germany, France, the USA and Poland.

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

NEWS

Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

Rachel Hogan vying to become Miss Macra lRachel Hogan

Mary and Fiona appointed to glór Young Curators

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

ENNISTYMON'S Rachel Hogan will represent Clare in the International Miss Macra Festival over the August Bank Holiday weekend, writes Páraic McMahon. Clare have not had a winner in the competition since 1993 and members of Clare Macra na Feirme have told The Clare Echo that this will be the first “in a number of years” that they are participating in the event. Tipperary will host the festival in the Anner Hotel on Saturday July 30th at the Temple Tuohy Farm Machinery Cabaret with music afterwards by the Music Makers. On Sunday, following a Gala Banquet and music by the Silver Dollar Alias, the International Miss Macra 2022 will be

crowned. A native of Cullagh, Rachel is currently completing a professional masters of education (PME) to become a woodwork and technical graphics teacher. Although Rachel is not from a farming background, she enjoys helping out on her uncles’ farms and spending time with her friends in Kildare who are involved in the tillage industry. Apart from agriculture, she enjoys exercising and visiting her grandparents. Rachel is looking forward to enjoying a great weekend at the festival. Her cousin from Sligo came runner up in the festival back in 2011, but Rachel is hoping to do one better and bring the crown back to Clare this year.

ARY Nagle And Fiona O’Connell have been appointed as the Young Curators in glór. glór, along with the NASC network of venues has announced the appointments to develop a programme of work by young people for young people to be presented at the Ennis venue from September to November of this year. In 2021, and in a new innovative approach to programming, 21 young curators were engaged by the NASC network of venues to programme a festival for children and young people, delivering for the first time, a national arts programme curated entirely by young people. This year, glór and NASC have expanded the Young Curators Programme, Corofin’s Mary Nagle continues as a curator with the new appointment of Fiona O’Connell from Cratloe as a young curator, arts worker and musician confirmed. From the age of 12, Mary played organ for the Corofin church choir and played flute in the National Youth Orchestra of Ireland for four years trained in classical music, graduating from the CIT Cork School of Music in 2017. She has been published in the poetry collective Ó Bhéal Five Words Anthology, was part of the team for

lPROGRAMME: Fiona O'Connell and (inset) Mary Nagle

the Cork International Poetry Festival in 2018 and was programme co-ordinator for the West Cork Chamber Music Festival. Mary then moved to London to study journalism. She moved back to Clare when the pandemic hit and currently teaches flute, piano, and violin at the Dublin School of Music. Over the last number of years, Fiona has worked with a variety of arts organisations. She currently divides her time between Limerick Jazz and Emerging Limerick Filmmakers. Most recently she co-founded independent music collective Sunwell Tapes with an aim to showcasing the best of emerging Irish talent through

showcase gigs in various venues. Fiona’s ethereal folk music balances upon both her intricate vocal melodies and delicate approach to song writing, combining the simplicity of traditional folk melodies with pop, ambient and electronic elements to weave a lane of her own. Last year Fiona took part in glór’s Artist to Artist Mentoring programme under fellow Clare songwriter Síomha and went on to support Síomha on her national ‘Infinite Space’ tour. In July, Fiona played The Folly Festival in Laois alongside acts including Róisín O, Hermitage Green, and Moncrieff. Mary and Fiona are currently working on a programme to be presented in autumn.

Beauty 'on our doorstep' to be displayed in West

CLARE Arts Office in conjunction with Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, Kilkee is delighted to present “On Our Doorstep” an exhibition of artwork of local scenes by Pauline Dunleavy. Pauline, a native of West Clare, considers herself very fortunate to have lived her life on the peninsula, bordered on one side by the majestic river Shannon and on the other by the powerful Atlantic ocean. Pauline’s paintings are informed by the changing seasons and this is reflected both in her landscapes and seascapes. She draws her inspiration from time spent outdoors and her unique ability to identify beauty in the ordinary “On Our Doorstep”. Having had a long standing interest in art and creativity she started exhibiting her paint-

ings in her Gallery and Craft Shop at Anchor Crafts, Kilrush. She has developed a vibrant, distinctive style which has been enhanced by her attendance at art courses at various centres in Ireland, France, Italy and America. She is very generous in sharing her expertise and encourages others to explore the wonderful world of art. As a dynamic member of Kilrush Art Group she also serves as a co-ordinator. Pauline’s depiction of the sea is grounded in her regular exposure to the sea in all its challenging forms through her long commitment and service of 25 years to the RNLI as a member of the lifeboat crew and latterly as Station Manager. Her versatility as an artist is represented by her use of different media, oils, acrylics, watercolours and more recently

encaustic. Since the onset of the pandemic people have had an increased awareness and appreciation of our wonderful land and seascapes and she has completed many commissions to meet this demand. Having participated in many exhibitions she is delighted to have the opportunity to show a collection of recent paintings in this, her first solo exhibition in the Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery in her home area and is very appreciative of the support of the Clare Arts Office in doing so. 'On our Doorstep' will run from August 2-26 at Culturlann Sweeney, Kilkee. lLOCAL ARTIST : Pauline Dunleavy

FEATURES 15

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

GREEN CLARE

40 bags of litter collected in Lahinch over one hour STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

ORTY bags of marine litter were removed from Lahinch during a onehour clean up on Saturday. Volunteers from all across the county partook in Clean Coasts and Fáilte Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way Community Clean-ups of Lahinch Beach on Saturday. An approximate 240kg of litter was collected by the volunteers who joined Clean Coasts and Fáilte Ireland and removed 40 bags of marine litter in an hour. Clean Coasts established the clean-ups on the Wild Atlantic Way as part of their summertime Enjoy and Protect campaign with support from Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development who support the long-term sustainable growth in the economic, social, cultural and environmental contribution to tourism in Ireland. The events’ overall aim was to raise awareness to keeping our marine and wildlife spaces clean

for locals and tourists alike to enjoy and admire. Sinead McCoy, Clean Coasts coastal communities manager explained, “With the summer in full swing, the Wild Atlantic Way is a prime route for both Irish and international tourists alike to explore and with the sunny weather there is no better place to explore in the west than the glorious beaches and coastal landscapes”. In addition to a clean up and talk, volunteers were asked about the Wild Atlantic Way via a survey to ascertain if they experienced difficulties with the tourism route, their perceived benefits and potential projects to enhance the experience. The suggestions from these surveys will be implemented by both Clean Coasts and Fáilte Ireland in their future events. “Initiatives such as this allow for the sharing of ideas and collaboration with our local communities and ensure that they are at the centre of any decision-making around tourism affecting the place where they live,” Fáilte Ireland planning and environment manager, Shane Dineen stated.

Waived fees can lower pollution

PARENTS must act to avail of waived school transport fees for the coming school year, writes Páraic McMahon. At the beginning of July, as part of new budgetary measures targeted at offering assistance to struggling families, the Government announced that school transport fees would be suspended for one year. Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) has urged

parents to act now to register with Bus Éireann. School children who are eligible for the scheme must register before July 29th to get free fares for the coming year. In a statement to The Clare Echo, the Inagh native outlined that the temporary scrapping of the transport fees can create a new habit to lower air pollution around school settings. “Not only will

this free transport scheme save parents money but if there is strong take up then it will ease congestion around schools, reduce emission and lower air pollution. "It’s very much a win-win-win. I’m glad to see public transport being given priority both through reducing fares and investing in new infrastructure." Visit schooltransport.buseireann.ie

l Clean Coasts Officer, Dara Dever met volunteers in Lahinch to facilitate the Clean Coasts and Fáilte Ireland Wild Atlantic Way clean-up on Saturday

OUT & ABOUT

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

SKODA RING OF CLARE CYCLE

l A WHEELY GOOD DAY: Pictured at the Skoda Ring of Clare

Cycle were (clockwise from above): Sean Cahill with the Skoda Mascott; A competitor brings positivity to the day; Thumbs up from menbers of the Clare Crusaders Cycling Club; Jim Bradley and Paddy Sexton from Ennis; Cyclists from Tradaree Wheelers from Newmarket on Fergus Photos by Natasha Barton

COMMUNITY GAMES - JOHN 0'SULLIVAN PARK, ENNIS l YOUNG CHAMPIONS:

Pictured at the 2022 Clare Community Games at John O'Sullivan Park in Ennis were (clockwise from far left): Dylan Casey signs shirts for some of the Clare Community Games competitors; Riain Duignan of Ennis St Johns crosses the finish line in the U10 mixed Relay; Thomas O'Sullivan from Cratloe proudly flies the flag for his team; Cecilia O'Sullivan President congratulating the U12 Girls Relay Teams; Evie Quin from Tulla competing in the high jump; Alanna Carroll from Doora Barefield takes part in the U12 Long Jump

OUT & ABOUT

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

FOOD & DRINK FLEADH - ENNIS

l FINE DINING: Enjoying the Food &

Drink Fleadh in Ennis were (clockwise from far left): Marcus Moloney on Banjo and Ann Marie McCormack on fiddle provided the tunes at Artisan Market on Saturday; Shauna Marlow give the Knox’s cocktail entry a good shake at the cocktail compeition; Zoe O’Farrell sets out Wilde Irish Chocolates stall at the Artisan Market; Winners of the three Junior Bake-off categories Laura Davey (winner 9 -12) Sofia Lazorenko (winner 13 – 15) and Laura Olivia Drzewiecka (under 9’s); Susan Taylor, Margaret O’Brien and Emily O Dwyer at launch of Clare Food & Drink Fleadh 2022

Photos by Paul Core

KILDYSART AGRICULTURAL SHOW THE 80th anniversary of Kildysart Agricultural Show takes place on Saturday July 30th. With a total prize fund of nearly €30,000 spread over almost 200 classes in all sections both outdoors and indoors, the exhibits include top showjumpers right down to the humble sot of turf. It promises to be a great day out for everyone young and old. Competitors come from all over

QUILTY Ireland including Northern Ireland. There will be a free shuttle bus from the showgrounds to the Exhibition Hall from 1.30 onwards. The committee are most grateful for all the support that they get from the local community and further afield. Not forgetting the most important people of all our exhibitors without whom it would be impossible to host an occasion like this.

BRIDGETOWN SOUTH EAST CLARE SHOW THE 30th Annual South East Clare Show is scheduled for Sunday, July 24th at Bridgetown Show grounds Co. Clare. Milford Care Centre is the charity of choice. With a total prize fund of €20,000 and more than 2,500 equestrian, cattle and, Horticultural entries expected, the 2022

Show will draw thousands of people General admission for a family €25.00. Student or OAP cost €10.00 or individual adult costs €15.00. Eircode V94 YT3F Avoid entrance queuing on the day by purchasing tickets in advance https:// itsplainsailing.com/org/southeastclare

CELEBRATION NIGHT COMMUNITY celebration night on Sunday 31st July 2022 in the Quilty Tavern at 9pm! Music, Dance, Storytelling, Raffle and lots more with PJ & Seamus Murrihy, Ronan Burke, Karen Galvin, Patrick Wickham, Sean Malone, Karen McInerney, Eugene Donnellan Set Dancers, Champion Dancers from the Aoibheann Murphy Academy Rhea Hogan and Ciara Corry, Amy Corry, AllIreland Recitation Champion Dylan Corry,

The Shannon Sisters from Miltown Malbay, Jayden Murray Sean Nos Dancer and more acts to follow! A celebration night not to be missed! Admission €5, food on the night – kindly donated by Brian & Cora Cooney. Raffle on the night with lots of fab hampers and vouchers! All proceeds to the Local St. Anne’s Miltown Malbay and KIB St. Vincent De Paul Conference & KIB Parish Church Funds.

KILKISHEN/VIANA DO CASTELO

THE BURREN BURREN LOWLANDS AGM The Burren Lowlands development company held its AGM on July 12th. Karen O’Neill who chaired the AGM, said: "Building upon our successful remote working hub, we are looking for local businesses to participate in a strategic business forum to develop a new economic

strategy for the area." A new App has been developed to connect shoppers, visitors, and businesses while a new website (https:// www.burrenlowlands.org/) was launched at the AGM to showcase the best the area has to offer. The company has worked with agencies to develop the Burren Discovery Trail, the Red Route Cycle Greenway.

KILKEE CIVIC TRUST TALKS OUR Summer Season of weekly events continues this Wednesday. The third of nine Talks - on Wednesday 20th July at 8pm.

l SAIL AWAY: Last week eight young sailors travelled from Cullaun Sailing Club, Kilkishen Our Speaker is - Dr. Síle Ní Choincheannain. Admission to all events is FREE of Charge. A donations box is available, at each KCT Talk / Event, to assist us in defraying essential and necessary expenses.

to Viana do Castelo, Portugal to represent Clare and Ireland in the EU Atlantic Games. The Atlantic Games took place from 11 to 15 July 2022 and brought together 400 young athletes aged 12 to 18, from the cities, regions and countries of the Atlantic Arc. The Cullaun Sailors were represented by Laura Collins, Noah Doherty, Lucas Donlon, Grace Golden, Ruth Golden, Aoife Hawkins, Rory O’Sullivan and Robert Stafford as they sailed in Lasers and 420 boats.

RECRUITMENT

BUSINESS AND RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

LOCAL BUSINESSES SHINE AT FOOD & DRINK FLEADH

lTASTY: Publican Darragh McAllister and Mayor Clare Colleran Molloy at the launch of Clare Food & Drink Fleadh 2022; Silvi O’ Brien of Nordic Twist bakery (Cratloe) at the Artisan Market; Jenny Mather looks satisfied with her work as she displays’ JJ’s Rose of Clare’ - Nora Culligan’s cocktail entry to Clare Food & Drink Cocktail competition

Photos by Paul Corey

COLLEGE OF FURTHER EDUCATION & TRAINING

FULLY FUNDED

Workboat Master Traineeship We are enrolling for a Workboat Master traineeship, which starts in August. This fully-funded programme runs for 1-year and will empower you with work-ready skills for a career in the maritime industry. It will equip you with the skills, competencies and certification required for employment in the area of passenger boats, fishing vessels, boat repair and maintenance. Programmes co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union

#FindTheBestInYou

Go to collegeofFET.ie/traineeships

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

RECRUITMENT

SPE and Hummingbird Aero agree deal H 20

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

• SPORADIC COVER SCHOOL WARDEN (ENNIS)

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 4th August 2022. Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846528, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community. Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

by ELAINE TUBRIDY

UMMINGBIRD Aero LLC, an industry-leading provider of aerospace systems development services based in Irvine, California, recently announced the formation of Hummingbird International Ltd, to be based in Clare. According to a Memorandum of Agreement, Hummingbird International will be formed as a partnership between Hummingbird Aero LLC, Shannon Precision Engineering, DPF Engineering of Carlow and Realtime Technologies of Dublin. This process initiated as part of the Emerald Aero Group which is managed by Clare based Consultant Theresa Mulvihill. The Farnborough signing initiates the official registry of the new entity, and was attended by Tanaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Leo Varadkar. Hummingbird International will focus initially on the manufacture of electro-mechanical and electronic motion control products for the aerospace industry.

lPARTNERS: Signing of MOU between Hummingbird Aero and Clare Based Shannon Precision Engineering

Dominic Murphy, Managing Director of Shannon Precision Engineering, said “The formation of Hummingbird International is a unique venture for the island of Ireland. Shannon Precision

Engineering are excited to contribute to a project that will provide a platform for Irish manufacturing to showcase our expertise in safety critical Aerospace components.”

Join our Procurement Team Procurement Manager

Permanent Contract Based at Shannon Airport Role Purpose

Qualifications, Skills and Experience

An opportunity has arisen for an experienced Public Procurement Manager reporting to Head of Procurement, to manage the delivery of purchasing and procurement services to Shannon Group companies.

The candidate should have:

Key Areas of Responsibility

• A public procurement qualification would be desirable.

• Lead contract negotiations to ensure the integrity of the tendering and procurement processes for supply and service contracts • Ensure compliance with EU, National and internal procurement policies, and procedures.

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience of tendering and buyer functions within a Public Sector organisation. • An in-depth, working knowledge of the public sector procurement policies and demonstrable experience in conducting public procurement competitions at national and EU levels. • Excellent understanding of contractual legal terms and conditions. • Excellent ICT skills, process-oriented, with analytical skills and a high level of attention to detail.

• Manage the sourcing process, including tender specification review, tendering and negotiation strategies, tender pack preparation, advertising on both eTender website and European Journal, tender evaluation, including issue of letters of regret and intent, standstill letters and acceptance. • Support the Head of Procurement in achieving strategic group procurement goals including efficient processes and value for money and economies of scale where appropriate. • Manage the supply chain from project inception to contract placement including supplier selection and development of key supplier relations. • Operate as a Buyer in the purchasing systems from supplier set up, creation of purchase orders and assisting business units to order through the company purchasing systems.

How to Apply: Applications in the form of a cover letter and current CV (MS Word or pdf) should be sent to: recruitment@shannongroup.ie not later than 12 noon on Tuesday, 2nd August 2022.

RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

Clare Museum maintains top award from Heritage Council

by ELAINE TUBRIDY HIRTEEN museums were celebrated at a ceremony in Kilkenny Castle on Wednesday, 13th July, having achieved official accreditation under the Heritage Council’s Museum Standards Programme for Ireland (MSPI). Established to promote professional standards in museums, selection under the MSPI is a major accolade with accredited museums considered to have attained excellence across a range of areas. Since its inception in 2006, the Irish museum sector has continued to embrace the programme with participation growing from 12 museum sites to 67 in 2022. Because no two museums are the same, the path to accreditation is different for all participants. Whereas museums with large collections may encounter challenges relating to storage and upkeep of large volumes of material, the volunteers in smaller museums may struggle to find the time or motivation to reach the MSPI standards. Among the museums maintaining full accreditation was Clare Museum in Ennis. The museum assessors noted the museum’s continued work on adding to its collections. With the assistance of the Friends of the National Collections of Ireland, the museum purchased a drawing by the celebrated artist, Frederic William Burton, who spent his childhood at Clifden House, near Corofin. The museum was at the forefront of putting its collection online and, through the work of volunteers, opened a new temporary exhibition in 2019 on the War of Independence, enhanced by a series of public lectures. The museum also launched its first public lecture series in 2019 which was hugely popular before being terminated due to the Covid-19 pandemic. With the refurbishment of the local tourist office which shares entry with the museum, a new display area for de Valera’s Dodge limousine has been created. The museum will have a new website before the end of the year. Welcoming the news that Clare Museum has received the MSPI accreditation, Cllr Tony O’Brien, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, said: “I wish to commend the staff of Clare Museum on achieving this accreditation and on maintaining a standard of excellence. Following the refurbishment to the museum building, the museum continues to expand its collection, further enhancing its offering as a visitor attraction in the heart of Ennis Town.” Commenting on the ceremony, Chairperson of the Heritage

Council, Martina Moloney, said: “The growing number of museums participating in the MSPI is testament to the regard in which it is held by the sector. It is wonderful to see representatives from so many different museums here today, all of whom have worked so hard to ensure the best possible standards are met; a commitment that has hugely positive benefits for cultural life in Ireland, for visitors to the museums and tourism in the country generally.” Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, said: “It’s such a pleasure for me to welcome the award winners to this ceremony today to mark and celebrate the presentation of accreditation certificates under MSPI. This is the first live awards ceremony since 2019 after the online ceremonies held for 2020 and 2021’s award winners and so it is also only right that the certificate recipients from these years also be acknowledged today. These museums have worked very hard for their accreditation and richly deserve this recognition for their efforts.”

lPRESERVING HISTORY: Museum assessors noted the museum’s continued work on adding to its collections.With the refurbishment of the local tourist office which shares entry with the museum, a new display area for de Valera’s Dodge limousine was create Photo from Pinterest

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (EOI) FOR THE LEASE OR PURCHASE OF OFFICE / ENTERPRISE BUILDING Expression of Interest are invited for the lease or purchase of a two-storey office / enterprise building with a total floor area of 1,191 sq. metres (12,819 sq. ft. ) located at Ballymaley Business Park, Gort Road, Ennis, County Clare V95 CF83. The property is in need of some modernisation. Proposals will be considered for enterprises / firms that demonstrate capacity for future enterprise development, innovation or indigenous firms with jobs growth potential and/or operating in internationally traded services or manufacturing. Expressions of interest must include details of employment creation potential, time line for delivery of additional employment, evidence of exporting (if applicable) and innovation strategy. Expressions of interest should also detail preference for lease or outright purchase together with proposed lease or proposed purchase price. Expressions of interest should be submitted to the Property Management Unit, Economic Development Directorate, Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, County Clare V95 DXP2 no later than 4.00 pm. on Friday 26th August 2022. Envelope should be clearly marked ‘Expressions of Interest – Ballymaley Business Park’. Further details are available, and viewings can be arranged by emailing info@ennis2040.ie or cgreene@clarecoco.ie

21-07-22

Fine weather drives anticipation for Memorial Kennedy Cup by MICHAEL MAHER FINE WEATHER over the weekend put a stop to any greyhound racing at the Limerick and Galway tracks. The Final of the valuable John Whelan sponsored Memorial Kennedy Cup at Limerick Greyhound Stadium will now be down for decision at Limerick on this coming Saturday night. Clare hold a strong hand in this €5,000 to the winner. In the semi-final, Stream Of Sydney owned by the sponsors brother Austin Whelan of Doolin maintained his unbeaten run with another sparkling performance, but it was the other unbeaten bitch in the stake, Tromora Rocket owned by David Hogan of Quilty who went narrowly quickest. Mary Crotty from O’Briensbridge, a regular to the winners enclosure at Limerick Greyhound Stadium was to the fore again on Thursday night last. Inislosky Urchin

made it two wins on the bounce with a 29.22 victory, a thirteenth career victory for this daughter of Romeo Recruit and Inislosky Swift further success for O’Briensbridge was attained when Jocker Willy landed the spoils for William Casey, this son of Droopys Roddick and Cailin Pol recorded a fifth career win in 29.17. Newmarket-on-Fergus duo Myles Cummins and Breda Casey enjoyed the exploits of Snuggie Jacksie who duly obliged in 29.08 for an A5 contest, this was the third career success for this son of Sir Paddy and Snuggie Whisper. On his fifth attempt, Tiermana Oak notched his first career win for Mullagh publican Noel Mororney, a wide seeded son of Laughil Blake and Cloneyogan Flash, he finished strongly to claim the honours in 29.14.

SUMMER NIGHTS OUT!

BOOK YOUR RESTAURANT MEAL & RACING NOW

limerick - thursday and saturday night galway - friday and saturday night

www.LimerickGreyhoundStadium.ie

www.GalwayGreyhoundStadium.ie

pg 22

Ladies Captain’s Prizes claimed by SEAMUS HAYES

LAHINCH GOLF CLUB The Lahinch men’s and ladies senior cup teams created a piece of history on Saturday by winning their respective West Munster senior cup finals at Killarney. The men defeated Dooks 3.5 to 1.5 to secure their place in the All-Ireland finals and bring home a men’s Munster pennant to the club for the first time since 1984, a thirty-eight year wait. The senior cup and Barton Shield panel have been on the road since April and includes Mark Campbell, Eoin Glynn, Jonathan Keane, Bob and Stephen Loftus, Aaron McNulty, Thomas Neenan, Michael O’Kelly, Noel Sexton and their leaders, David Conway and Kyle Cannon. The Ladies team won the Munster title for the third year in a row with a hard-fought win over the home club, Killarney, on a score of 3.5 to 1.5. The members are Marjorie Ahern, Sarah Cunningham, Jenny Hennessy, Olivia Lucas, Niamh O’Dwyer, Val Shannon, Linda Toomey Aine Donegan, Chloe Ryan, Aideen Walsh and their mentors, Valerie Hassett and Aedin McCarthy. Club officials and members are all looking forward to the All-Ireland finals at Tramore in late August. Some of the players involved in the success have a busy week ahead of them. Aideen Walsh headed off to France on Sunday to prepare for the European Ladies Amateur Championship at Golf de Saint-Germain, Paris which commenced on Wednesday. Closer to home, Stephen Loftus and Aaron McNulty will tee it up at the South of Ireland Amateur Open Championship which got under way on Wednesday. Killian Howard of Dromoland Golf Club and Shane Lillis of Kilrush Golf Club are also flying the Clare flag. ENNIS GOLF CLUB: Peggy Costello (22) was the overall winner of the ladies 18 hole stableford competition at Ennis with 40 points. Ann O’Loughlin (17) won division 1 with 33 points, Flor Coffey (25) won division 2 with 38 points, while Una O’Reilly (34) with 37 points. The overall winner of the 9 hole competition was Kitty Morris (8) with 20 points while the category winners were Anne Kelly (14) with 19 points, Mary Leahy (16) with 20 points and Alice D’Arcy (22) with 20 points. Last week’s senior ladies outing was won by Kathleen Pyne, Phil Butler, Mary Glynn and Margaret McEnery from Maeve O'Grady, Anne Keogh and Mary McMahon with third place filled by Teresa Lillis, Carmel Verling Alice D'Arcy and Mary Keany. EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB: Loretto O O'Donnell was the winner of the ladies 18 hole stableford competition at East Clare last week with 45 points. Evelyn Skehan was second with 40 points followed by Cathrine Murphy who also scored 40 points. The men’s fourball competition was won by Jason Horan and Josh Moloney with 60 points from T. J. and John McNamara. John Punch won the men’s Thursday open with 43 points from Dylan Fox with 38, Killian Baane with 37, Noel Nash with 37 and John Solon with 37.

OUR NEW CUSTOM FITTING

ROOM IS NOW OPEN

The ladies Wednesday competition winners were Breda McCarthy, Mary Stritch and Pauline Nugent from Margaret Lynch, Phil Burke and Mary Farrell with third spot filled by Geraldine Mc Namara, Marie Donnellan and Teresa Bradley. Last week’s senior men’s competition winners were Danny Minogue, Michael Moloney and Richard Pomfret from Jim Greene, Jackie McHugh and Ray Maxwell with Pat Duggan, Martin Mc Hugh and Kevin Grimes in third spot. The men’s open continues on Thursdays while the mixed scramble continues on Friday evenings from 5.30p.m. to 6.30p.m. KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at Kilrush at the weekend was sponsored by Patrick Bourke Menswear and was won by John Robinson (25) with 45 points from Cyril Kelly (19) with a similar score. Brendan Carigg (29) was third with 40 points. The category winners were Declan O'Donovan (10) with 40 points, Seamus O'Doherty (14) with 39 points and Michael J Hogan (19) with 38 points. DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at Dromoland at the weekend was a 4 person scramble which was won by Nigel and Alex Frost, Paudie Dorgan and James Purcell with 52.2 nett. In second place were John McCarthy, Ciaran Kelly, Brian Ahern and Christy Cusack with 55.4 nett followed by Brendan Lennon, Denis Mulqueen, John Hayes and Barry Walshe with 56.4 nett. The ladies 18 hole stableford competition was won by Siobhan Doohan with 35 pints while the ladies 9 hole competition was won by Dolores Fox with 18 points from Gabrielle Gilna with 17 points. In the ladies 9 hole mid week competition Catherine Quinn won with 19 points from Mary Rogers with a similar score. WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Matthew McGrath (6) won the junior scratch cup at Woodstock last week with 77 gross. In the weekend club singles, Paul Sherlock (19) was the winner with 46 points from Jimmie Kelly (19) with 44 points with Niall Reynolds (15) in third spot with 42 points. Cathal O’Connor (3) won the gross with 39 points while the category winners were Callum Hayes (12) with 41 points, Cathal Clune (16) with 41 points and Ronan Lynch (32) with 41 points. The mid week open singles last week was won by Kevin Frehill (25) with 63 nett from David Green (15) with 65 nett with third spot filled by Declan Browne (33) with 68. Tony Cleary (scratch) won the gross with 79. Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Paddy Meehan, Seamus Kelly and Greg Fogarty with 50 points. GORT GOLF CLUB: The weekend competition at Gort was an 18 hole fourball sponsored by Gort Credit Union. The winners were John McGrath (15) and Alan Minogue (7) with 51 points They had three to spare over Niall Hoarty (14) and Barry Cahill (14) with third spot filled by Ed Purcell (16) and Gerry Fahey ( 23) with 47 points. The gross was won by Conor Shields (8) and Niall Loftus (10) with 33 points. Brian Monahan (20) won the Friday open singles with 41 points while Gavin Lally (4) won the gross with 33 points.

EDITION 3 Jul/Aug ‘22

Summer

A publication of

My Clare

OUR CONTRIBUTORS REVEAL THEIR FAVOURITE SPOTS TO VISIT

MIGHTY DOOLIN

WE MEET A DOOLIN BUSINESS PERSON TO SEE HOW THE NORTH CLARE VILLAGE IS THRIVING

in association with

JUST KEEP SWIMMING

WE LOOK AT 5 GREAT SWIMMING SPOTS IN CLARE

Editor’s letter

Hello and a very warm welcome to the third instalment of Live Clare, the Banner County’s seasonal tourist magazine. ‘Live Clare Summer’ is an elegantly produced magazine filled with colourful features from the fabulous four corners of Clare. Our free publication promotes the county in all its splendour while giving locals and visitors alike some wonderful day trip ideas and an insight into the people who make Clare the special place that it is. This publication returns after a two-year hiatus and while we witnessed an explosion of staycationers in 2021, this year has brought its own set of challenges to the tourist businesses across the county, including a shortage of bed-nights for tourists. In recognition of the challenges faced by local businesses, we include this year’s edition inside The Clare Echo newspaper as a special pull-out to ensure the vital local market is reached through our 16,300 copies which will be distributed to shops, businesses and homes countywide. Having worked in for a number of years in Dublin myself, a return home in 2015 has proved a happy move. The ease and freedom with which you can find yourself at a beautiful beach or quiet hiking trail is matched by the atmospheric nightlife and buzzing streets. It just can’t be rivalled - and that’s before you even mention the people. Ennis was in recent years named the friendliest place in Ireland, and it’s a welldeserved title which its people wear proudly. It’s with that passion that myself, along with a team of local writers and contributors, present to you Live Clare Summer 2022. So whether you’re a local looking to get out and enjoy our county in the summer of 2022 or if you’re a holidaymaker, this comprehensive guide will help you decide on the right places to eat, places to shop and places to stay while bringing you on a whirlwind tour of the Banner County. Live Clare Magazine is produced by The Clare Echo newspaper. It is distributed in hotels, cafés, boutiques, tourist offices, homes and shops across County Clare. If you would like to request additional copies of this magazine, please call The Clare Echo on 065 - 671 9021 or email accounts@clareecho.ie.

Summer 2022

Contents 36

On the cover

Features

34-35 My Clare Contributors from The Clare Echo team answer some questions about their favourite places to eat, visit and chill out in County Clare

Destination 16 Carrygerry House Step inside the old world Carrygerry Country House in Newmarket-on-fergus, owned by the Ennis family

live

10-11 Jump in With the explosion of popularity in sea swimming in recent years, we list some of our favourite places to take a dip

18-19 Cliffs of Moher The Cliffs of Moher team bring you their top tips on how best to enjoy a day trip to the world famous attraction 24 Aillwee Caves An exciting reopening and a

warm welcome awaits everyone at this Multi Award Winning destination attraction.

26 Moher Hill Farm Set on a generous 14-acre site, take your time visiting the 60 or so animals including llamas, emu, deer, miniature donkeys, many breeds of ponies and sheep, pot bellied pigs, kunekune pig, goats and fluffy rabbits.

6-7 Summer Days in Clare How well do you know Clare? This summer, we challenge you to take the opportunity to explore all the county to appreciate the place where you

12-13 Foolin’ in Doolin We speak to Gerry Quinn who has just unveiled the latest offering in the Fiddle & Bow collection in Doolin 30 Airmid North Clare company Airmid brings a breath of fresh air to Ennistymon

Gastro scene 28 Hyland Burren Hotel Find out why Hylands Burren Hotel is the lively centre of the tourist season in Ballyvaughan 31 Linnalla Ice-Cream What better way to cool down on the Wild Atlantic Way

than with a scoop (or three) of delicious homemade ice cream at Café Linnalla. 32 Market Munch The Market House in Ennistymon is one of Clare’s greatest examples of farm to fork

Events 20 Harbour Hooley Free open-air performances from across a variety of musical genres will see Scariff Fair Green rock over the bank holiday weekend

14-15 Two of the best We see why Lough Derg and the Burren have both been named among the best places to holiday in Ireland in 2022 40 Swing & a hit With the Irish Open coming to Dromoland Castle this summer, local golf pro Padraig McGrath lists some of his favourite holes in the county 42 Child’s Play Keeping the kids entertained

Summer Days in Clare... ...make it a mini adventure (pictured main) Spanish Point and (below) Tim Smyte playground

finding a new favourite spot.

If you are a local reading this, get lost! To

make a day out in Clare a real adventure, why not get in your car or on your bike and set out to get lost? You're sure to find new discoveries. Tip: If you are driving, check your fuel and bring a picnic.

Go history hunting with your family

(pictured) Dysart O’Dea castle

OW well do you know Clare? This summer, take the opportunity to explore ALL of the county to appreciate where you live. Here are just a few suggestions...

Explore a different part of Clare

Most of us are creatures of habit, so you probably go to the same places around the County because you know and like them. Why not explore a different part Clare and see what it has to offer? Visit and check out its attractions, walk around the area and enjoy a bite to eat. You might end up

There are over 7,500 known archaeological sites in Clare. These connect you through thousands of years - back to the beginning of human history in Ireland. So why not go history hunting and delve into the facts behind the sites you visit? Your children would love to know more about times past.

Join in a guided walking tour

If you live in Clare, this is probably the last thing you would think of doing because "they are for tourists". However, there are many local, bookable walking tours with expert guides who will give insights that you were not aware of. The walks are great too!

Swing into a Playground

You may know the playgrounds nearest to you, but check out other fabulous playgrounds around the County, many uniquely-situated - like Cappa playground in Kilrush, overlooking the beach; or in

Kilbaha on the Loop Head Peninsula. See www.clarecoco.ie for a list of free playgrounds.

Swim at a Blue Flag beach

Clare has nine Blue Flag beaches, perfect for a summer swim. The coastal beaches are Cappa Pier, Kilrush; Fanore; Kilkee; Lahinch; Spanish Point; White Strand, Doonbeg; and White Strand, Miltown Malbay. Clare also has two inland Blue Flag beaches on the shores of Lough Derg at Mountshannon and Ballycuggeran near Killaloe.

Cool off at an Aqua Park in Kilrush or Killaloe An epic, fun adventure for all the family to enjoy. You can jump, slide, climb or bounce your way around the inflatable obstacle course on the water. Children as young as six can take part.

Journey to an island, or take a Lough Derg cruise

Take a boat trip to Scattery Island, Inis Cealtra (Holy Island), or the Aran Islands. Each is a unique and amazing experience offering wonderful insights into Ireland's rich history. Or, take a one-hour tranquil boat tour of the River Shannon and Lough Derg with Killaloe River Cruises. The views are stunning.

Head for heights

For spectacular views and a great day out, head for the heights. Visit the Cliffs of Moher, walk the Kilkee Cliffs, explore Loop Head Peninsula (the lighthouse is open for tours!), or head to Ballycuggeran woods, near Killaloe, for a walk that will take you high above Lough Derg, giving you panoramic views.

Say hello to the animals

Go dolphin watching from Kilrush or Carrigaholt. Walk an Alpaca in West Clare. See the birds of prey at Aillwee, or meet the animals at Craggaunowen, Moher Farm or Bunratty Folk Park - which also has a great children's play area.

Make it a green day out

Head to a forest or green attractions like Vandeleur Walled Garden in Kilrush - one of Ireland's ﬁnest gardens. Or, visit Irish Seed Savers in Scariff, which protects Ireland's food crop heritage for future generations; it is an oasis of biodiversity for all the family to enjoy.

Discovering dolphins, Kilrush and (below) Clare Museum, Ennis; (bottom) My Next Adventure, Lough Derg

Stay cool, underground

Aillwee Cave and Doolin Cave are two wonderful show caves. The temperature underground in these caves is much cooler than over ground. So, these caves are really cool to visit in every sense.

Explore Ennis – everyone loves it

Visit Ennis Friary, which dates back to the town's foundation, or the Clare Museum, which tells the County's history over 6,000 years. Enjoy the town's unique and diverse boutiques, shops, cosy cafés, and top-class restaurants.

Excellent, quirky, different

A visit to the lovely Burren Perfumery makes great scents! The Salmon Experience in Lisdoonvarna is a tasty attraction; and the Shannon Aviation Museum will give you insights into the fascinating world of flight (go book a virtual flying lesson!).

Try something exhilarating

Take a guided kayaking trip on Lough Derg, enjoy a surfing lesson on the coast, or learn to horse-ride at one of Clare's equestrian centres.

Be an ambassador

If you love your Clare experience, be an ambassador for the County and spread the word!

A REMARKABLE STORY... AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY Framed within the calm waters of the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island is a rich authentic visitor experience on the Wild Atlantic Way. Visitors will be amazed at the wealth of historic sites, including five Churches, a Cathedral, a magnificent Round Tower, Napoleonic War Artillery Battery and a working lighthouse. Today the island is completely uninhabited, and visitors can explore its ancient historic sites, and experience its unspoiled natural beauty in peace and tranquility. Scattery island is most famous as a very early Christian site. A monastic settlement founded by the local saint called St. Senan. The story goes that when Senan arrived to the island, he had to do battle with a dragon like creature called the Cathaigh, which is commemorating the islands Irish name, 'Inis Cathaigh' (meaning Cathach's Island). The name Scattery in English came from the Scandinavian word for Treasure which is 'Scat', which is believed to have come from around the time of the Viking invasion. So Scattery Island was known as the Island of Treasure. Scattery Island Tours offer a daily ferry service to Scattery Island during the summer months departing from Kilrush Marina and includes a guided walking tour of the monastic settlement area. For more information visit www.scatteryislandtours.com

WEST COAST RIB

ADVENTURES

WEST COAST RIB ADVENTURES Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore the stunning coastal scenery of the majestic Shannon Estuary with West coast RIB Adventures. Tours include a two hour Eco Safari Tour to the Ballybunion Cliffs and Clare coastline, or a one hour action packed River Run Adventure. The Shannon Estuary is an area of outstanding natural beauty, with it’s islands and cliff coasts, wildlife and dolphins. Feel the fresh air on your face and the freedom of the great outdoors. Explore hidden coves and sea stacks and soak up the sights as you get up close and personal with this beautiful stretch of the Shannon River. West Coast RIB Adventures depart from Kilrush Marina and bookings for all tours can be made online www.westcoastribadventures.com

THE TOWN HALL BISTRO

The Town Hall offers a modern and creative style of cooking and has established itself as one of the leading restaurants in Ennis.Excellent coffee and freshly baked scones are enjoyed as a mid-morning break and a tasty, bistro-style lunch menu is served throughout. At night-time, The Town Hall Ennis truly comes into its own. Original art acts as a theatrical backdrop to intimate, candlelit tables, creating a perfect setting for an exquisite dining experience in Ennis.

Book now on +353 65 682 8127 or email sales@oldgroundhotel.ie Find out more www.oldgroundhotelennis.com/dining

Live Clare

5 of Clare’s favourite swimming spots

Pollock Holes, Kilkee

Lough

These tidal pools offer crystal clear waters in a stunning setting. Located near Kilkee Beach, the pools are popular among locals and tourists alike. They are at their best within two hours of low tide when all that remains are the pools themselves.

Locate spot o well ke is quit swimm is a sli

(pictured main)

Kerins Hole, White Strand, Miltown Malbay (far right)

A renowned swimming location for locals and visitors to White Strand, Kerins Hole is easily accessible with constructed steps down the cliff face, leading you down to the waters edge. It is at its best at full tide when you are straight into the refreshing waters from the ladder. Another magical place, particularly when the suns shines!

Clahane, Liscannor (above right)

Once a hidden gem, this famous little swimming hole is becoming more and more popular. Swimming amongst the rocks, one feels very safe here and it’s not unusual to spot dolphins and porpoises here and it’s also a great place for snorkelling. Tuck yourself in behind a rock afterwards and it’s the perfect place to relax and read a book.

(above)

Fanor

(opposit

While are roc attract a kids the Bu dunes

Lahinch Surf Shop for your perfect wetsuit Founded in 1989 by Tom & Rosemary Buckley, Lahinch Surf Shop is the oldest surf shop in Ireland. It is owned and operated by the Buckley family. The shop stocks multiple brands and styles of wetsuit, so they usually have something to fit everyone. Wetsuit sizes range from age 1-16 in juniors, Small to 4XL in mens and size 4 to 18 in women’s wetsuits. Also in stock are full-length lycras to reduce risk of jellyfish stings. The product range is continually evolving to meet the demands of the local community, including new styles of products for the rapidly growing outdoor swimming

community. The shop completed a major renovation of their website recently which enables customers to see if the product they want is in stock, and they can set up a notification for when it arrives. There is a wide range of surf clothing in store – if you spot something on the website but don’t see it on display just ask one of the staff in store. Staff will advise the customer on wetsuit sizes, what would be appropriate for a growing junior, and the style and length of a board. To shop at Lahinch Surf Shop visit lahinchsurfshop.com or call 065 708 1543.

Lough Derg, Killaloe (above)

Located approx 5 km outside Killaloe, this swimming spot on one of Ireland’s most picturesque lakes is a well kept grassy area with Blue Flag beach. The water is quite shallow on entry (ideal for children) and so swimmers must wade out for depth. Alternatively there is a slipway for deeper water.

Fanore Beach, Fanore (opposite bottom)

While the beach is long, sandy and open there are rocks to shelter from the wind which makes it attractive for swimmers and indeed visitors. It can be a kids playground with lots of pools dotted around with the Burren as a backdrop and the renowned Fanore dunes, there is no denying this is a truly special place.

Live Clare

A TASTE OF

Doolin

We meet Gerry Quinn, the former Clare hurler who’s scoring big with Russell’s Seafood Bar in Doolin WORDS STUART HOLLY THE Fiddle & Bow Collection has gone from strength to strength since establishing itself in Doolin in 2014. A 13-bedroom luxury hotel was purchased in 2019, they boast 26 holiday homes, and its owners have added another figurative string to their bow with Russells Seafood Bar and Restaurant, in addition to the already popular Russell’s Fish Shop. Featured in the Irish Times Top 100 Summer List, Russells Seafood Bar will be serving up a new menu, curated by award-winning Chef Viv Kelly. Maintaining the farm-to-table ideals, all lobster and crab are caught under The Cliffs of Moher, and processed on-site to ensure that only the freshest of ingredients are brought to your table. Managing Director Gerry Quinn told The Clare Echo that due to restrictions which arrived not long after they purchased the hotel, a high-end seafood takeaway was established while plans for the restaurant were put on hold which proved a major success. “We haven’t actually put a full 12 months together in the hotel yet with Covid so we’re hoping this will be the first,” he explains.

“It was always our dream to do a really nice seafood

PICTURED Russells Seafood Bar & Restaurant at Fiddle & Bow, and (inset pics) examples of the culinary delights on offer; (opposite) Doonagore Castle in Doolin

restaurant in Doolin. The decor is very authentic, all the materials would be pre-used, the aesthetic is quite special. Also we wanted to focus on local ingredients, our menu generally has a 30km radius so we want all our suppliers to hail from Clare and surrounding areas.” The restaurant is complimented by the Meadow, an outdoor breakfast-coffee shop offering which stays open til 4pm. Gerry says there has been a very positive reaction to the restaurant, “There’s lobster on our menu, oysters, a lot of people appreciate that kind of stuff. We also cater for people who don’t like seafood, so we offer bacon dishes, kilshanny lamb etc.” Many tourism businesses across the county have faced challenges this year, however the former intercounty hurler praises the Doolin business community for its resilience and focus on teamwork which helps make Doolin a premium destination. “We still haven’t seen the big influx of international tourists. Doolin Tourism do fantastic work and the businesses work really well together. We see the general experience of the whole being the main thing, so it’s Destination Doolin. “People come and experience all of Doolin, the Cliffs of Moher, Doolin Cave, the Aran Islands, our food, our culture and music at night - that’s a really impoertant part of it. Businesses invest in making sure that as a music destination, that we have the best musicians. We run music seven nights a week, so if you come up to Doolin on a Monday or Tuesday, you’re going to get a great experience there as well. “It’s probably one of the only towns in Clare that work that closely together so that’s fantastic to be a part of as well.” “The season is going well, we’re very lucky it’s a premium destination.

Call Russells on (065) 670 0200 to make a reservation.

Live Clare

Two of the best

The Burren & Lough Derg have been named as two of the best places to holiday in Ireland 2022 The Burren and Lough Derg have been named as two of the ‘20 Best Places to Holiday in Ireland 2022’ and both are now in the running for the overall title following the publication of the long list of contenders. The Burren and Lough Derg were among hundreds of locations which were nominated by close to 1,200 people from across the 32 counties for the title. The Burren, which was one of seven regions to be selected, received six nominations, while Lough Derg, received three. Clare will of course have to share Lough Derg’s success with counties Galway and Tipperary, both of which border the lake. The Irish Times ‘Best Place to Holiday in Ireland’ competition, which is being run in association with Fáilte Ireland, began at the end of April when members of the public were invited to nominate their favourite place to holiday for the award. The competition last took place in 2013 with the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare emerging as the eventual winner. Will The Burren or Lough Derg follow its success? As on the previous occasion, each of the nominated locations in this year’s competition was considered by a panel of judges on a range of criteria including natural amenities, built environment, sustainability, tourism services, diversity, a welcome for visitors, transport links, accommodation

supply, cost and of course the X factor. The panel of five judges which includes Nadia El Ferdaoussi, travel blogger; Trevor White, director of the Little Museum of Dublin; Cillian Murphy, county councillor from Loop Head, the 2013 winner; and Rosita Boland, Irish Times journalist – spent hours reading and debating the entries, before selecting the ‘Best 20’. In the words of the judges The Burren is ‘the real Ireland’, an uncommercialised and unspoilt natural wonder with other brilliant attractions like The Cliffs of Moher and the Ailwee Cave located nearby. For its part Lough Derg and its 125km long shoreline is described as an ‘under-the-radar tourist destination’ with numerous pretty towns and villages dotted around a beautiful and easily accessible natural resource. The Chair of the Judging Panel, Conor Goodman from The Irish Times said the entries from people all over the island showcased the excellent quality and variety of holiday locations available here. “While the competition is a celebration of the many great holiday destinations this country has to offer, it also has a serious mission. As well as highlighting areas of natural beauty, we want to see which locations offer the best

(above)The Burren and (below) Lough Derg are both among seven regions to be selected among the 20 best places to holiday in Ireland in 2022

overall visitor experience, have a wide range of amenities and where care for the environment is a priority. Cost and value are also key considerations in a summer of rising prices and accommodation shortages across Ireland. In The Burren, Lough Derg and the other locations named in the ‘Best 20’ – our judges found these elements are very much to the fore as is the desire to create a warm welcome for people of all ages and backgrounds.” For information about ‘The Best Places to Holiday in Ireland 2022’ go to Best Place To Holiday - The Irish Times The full list of the ‘20 Best Places to Holiday in Ireland 2022’ includes 7 towns: Carlingford (Co. Louth) Drumshanbo (Co Leitrim), Kells (Co. Meath) Rosscarbery (Co. Cork) Strandhill (Co Sligo) Tramore (Co.Waterford) and Westport (Co. Mayo) 7 regions: Ards Peninsula and Strangford (Co Down) Bundoran and Rossnowlagh (Co Donegal) Enniskillen and the Fermanagh Lakelands (Co Fermanagh) Inishowen Peninsula (Co Donegal) Portrush and

the Causeway Coast (Co Antrim) St Mullins and the Barrow Way (Co Carlow) The Burren (Co Clare) 3 islands: Achill Island (Co Mayo), Inisbofin Island (Co Galway) and Valentia Island (Co Kerry) 2 cities: Dublin and Kilkenny and 1 lake: Lough Derg (Cos Clare, Tipperary and Galway).

Live Clare

Magnificent Carrygerry Step inside the old world country house owned by the Ennis family

IT’S well sign-posted, but so quaint and windy is the road that you’re never quite certain if you’re headed in the right direction until the magnificent Carrygerry Country House appears as if from nowhere. An immediate sense of historical significance draws you in before the surrounding beauty can be appreciated, including views of the River Shannon. Inside the luxurious house, a wall of family photos in the lobby creates a wonderfully homely atmosphere. Carrygerry House was originally built in 1793 and has been under the ownership of Niall and Gillian Ennis since 2003. “When we first came to Carrygerry, Gillian was eight months’ pregnant,” recounts Niall. “Jack spent the first three months of his life in a rocker up on a commercial kitchen table. We were young, green around the ears, slightly naive, but we were so full of ambition.” Carrygerry comprises of 11 stunningly appointed bedrooms, a beautiful Conservatory Restaurant, and a Function Room to cater for weddings or corporate events. With the location of Carrygerry County House they are unique to any other hotel in the area as they can offer the house completely private for couples who are celebrating their wedding day. Only catering to one wedding on any particular day ensures that you get the personal service and unique experience from Gillian, Niall and their experienced staff. Carrygerry Country House is a fully approved venue for civil ceremonies. Whether it is 10 or 100 guests Carrygerry Country House can cater to all your wedding needs. Located just outside Newmarket-on-Fergus the Ennis family have built it into a must visit destination for lovers of great food and amazing hospitality. Niall’s homemade jams and Seafood Chowder have regularly won national food

awards so make sure that you grab some before you leave. You won’t regret it. As Carrygerry is only 10 minutes from Shannon Airport, it is an ideal location to explore the local attractions such as Cliffs of Moher, Alliwee Caves, Ennis, Galway, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, King Johns Castle, Limerick, Adare to name but a few. The intimacy, the great food, and the warm welcome that you receive in Carrygerrry Country house will leave you refreshed & reinvigorated. The Conservatory Restaurant is open for dinner from Thursday to Saturday from 6 to 8.30pm and also open for Sunday Lunch

from 1 to 3.30pm. Gift vouchers available for enquires contact 061 360500 or email: info@carrygerryhouse.com

PICTURED (above) some of the culinary creations available at Carrygerry Country House and (opposite) the Orchard Room

North Clare

Living life

On the edge...

THE CLIFFS OF MOHER TEAM BRING YOU THEir TOP TIPS ON HOW best TO ENJOY A day TRIP TO THE WORLD FAMous attraction Want the perfect day out? Visit the Cliffs of Moher for a magical and unforgettable experience. The Cliffs of Moher tower (inset) over the rugged North County Clare coastline and will leave you awestruck, creating memories that will stay with you forever. Voted as one of the most instagrammable places in the world, there are few places where the elemental forces of time, wind and water have carved such beauty.

What you need to know

l Book online www.cliffsofmoher.ie l Arrive late evening or early morning for the best experience l Book a picnic or bring your own to avail of the many picnic tables; ask our friendly guides for complimentary picnic blanket l Bring a reusable water bottle and refill for free l Download the Cliffs of Moher Free App and Audio guide, your must have companion for your visit to the Cliffs l Listen to the Audio guide as you walk the

safe paved paths, hear of the extraordinary geology, history and wildlife of the area. There is so much more to the Cliffs of Moher than just the views lBrowse the craft and gift stores or the shops at the Craftworkers street, support local businesses l Avail of free wi-fi and tag us in your social medial posts @cliffsofmoher.ie on Instagram or @mohercliffs on facebook l If you have mobility issues, let the team know and we will organise the ‘Lifts of Moher’ which can seat up to six people and will transport to the viewing areas. lBorrow our Binoculars for free and spot the many seabirds that are nesting at The Cliffs. Understand why we are in a Special Protection Area for Birds and Wildlife, view the antics of some of the 30,000 pairs of seabirds lClimb the spiral staircase in O’Brien’s Tower, enjoy the panoramic views, ask a friendly guide about Cornelius O’Brien and his contri-

photos Clare County Council

bution to tourism in Ireland lEnjoy locally sourced gourmet food in the two cafés inside the Visitor Centre l Come to the Visitor Centre to enjoy the unmissable interpretative exhibition that animates the story of the Cliffs, presenting the geology, wildlife and human aspects in an entertaining and informative display. The Cliffs of Moher is part of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO global Geopark an area designated as geologically important. The Cliffs adhere to the Geopark code of practice. For more information visit cliffsofmoher.ie. When you visit remember to leave no trace, a programme that strives to build awareness, appreciation of and respect for Ireland’s natural and cultural heritage.

Live Clare

Open air music returns to Scariff Fair Green F REE open-air performances from across a variety of musical genres will see Scariff Fair Green rock over the bank holiday week-end. Since the festival began close to twenty years ago, bands and performers have been a central pillar in creating a celebratory and electric atmosphere in the otherwise quiet east Clare town for the other 11 months of the year.

Spirit of Smokie returns to Scariff on Saturday 30th July to the delight of audiences local and further afield. ‘Hugely popular with festival goers, Spirit of Smokie is the legacy UK soft rock band, rekindling memories associated with songs like ‘Living next Door to Alice’, ‘Oh Carol’, ‘Needles and Pins’ and such, said Harry O’Meara, of the Harbour Festival Committee. Spirit of Smokie was born out of triumph and tragedy. The original Smokie took the world stage by storm in the 70s and 80s with record sales in excess of £30 million. But the Smokie tour bus crashed in Germany during a terrible hailstorm In 1995, resulting a few days later in the death of South Yorkshire lad, Alan Barton, their lead singer. His son, Dean continues to celebrate his father and the band’s songs today through ‘Spirit of Smokie.’ On the circuit since 2008, the band currently includes not only Dean Barton (Lead Vocal & Guitar) but also Andy Whelan (lead guitar & vocals), Graham Kearns (Bass Guitar), Will Jackson (Keyboards) & Mick Bedford (Drums). They are credited with great sound and atmosphere but above all else, quality musicianship is their hallmark. Earlier, singer song-writer, Faye Moloney will perform to her home audience, while east Clare trad musicians (Mark & Brian Donnellan & Tulla’s Andrew McNamara) will let it rip at the harbour. On other festival nights, Cash Returns (the Johnny Cash & June Carter tribute duo) will go on stage with their live band on Friday night (29thJuly) preceded by the up and coming Clare band ‘Blue Herring.’ On Sunday night 31st July, the great Kilfenora Céilí Band will serve up a lively treat for the loyal set dancers who batter it out on a specially laid down wooden floor on the Fair Green before Drops of Green will bring their own unique interpretation to favourite Irish melodies, echoes of which will resound far into the Sliabh Aughty Hills above the town.

PICTURED (above) the Hydrotherapy Serenity pool and (right) Marta, Bart and Laura of Beauty Wave

College of FET Kilrush Campus steers learners towards Maratime training

Thanks to the success of previous Maritime training programmes and the level of industry engagement, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board is delighted that its College of Further Education and Training Campus in Kilrush, County Clare is now a dedicated centre of excellence in marine-related training.

maritime sector because of its combination of practical learning and theory.

The initiative is modelled around the success achieved at its Shannon Campus with its training support for the Aviation industry.

One upcoming marine-related programme is the Workboat Master Traineeship which is the first of its kind in Ireland and will take place at Kilrush Campus mid-August. The one-year programme is designed to give trainees all the knowledge, skills and behaviours required to lead a small team on a wide variety of specialist vessels.

Kilrush Campus is located on the Cooraclare Road in Kilrush and offers a wide range of Further Education and Training programmes for learners, local communities and business. This includes marine-related training, which avails of the local facilities, sheltered marina and the Shannon Estuary. Traineeships allow participants to develop skills and knowledge on the job, making them more skilled and more employable. They are developed in partnership with industry to empower the trainee with cutting-edge, in-demand, work-ready skills. The traineeship model is ideally suited for careers in the

From working in a busy port to navigating the open sea, or working on cruise ships or ferries, the sector offers a growing range of traineeships, which serve as a fantastic starting-point for a very rewarding career.

This could include anything from harbour tugs and multi-purpose workboats, to fast pilot boats or crew transfer vessels. Speaking about the upcoming traineeship, programme co-ordinator Diarmuid Whelan outlined the kind of attributes that would be of benefit for anyone thinking of becoming a workboat master. “This particular programme would

suit a practical person who is a good team player with a strong hands-on approach. It would also appeal to those who enjoy working on their own initiative, are mechanically-minded and relish the opportunity to take on lots of responsibility. You don’t necessarily have to have all these traits but they would definitely be a great bonus to anyone thinking of embarking on this particular traineeship” he explained. For entry to the programme, applicants require a Major QQI Level 4 award or

equivalent and documented industry experience is also accepted. On completion of the programme, trainees will have all the necessary skills, competencies and certification required for an exciting career in the Maritime sector, or for further progression onto Higher Education marine programmes. For more information on the Workboat Master Traineeship or any of the ETB’s other traineeships in areas like Aviation, Motor Technology, Hairdressing, and Robotic Welding, go to collegeofFET.ie/traineeships.

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So much more to the

Aillwee Caves

An unmissable day awaits for the adventurer, foodie & explorer N EXCITING reopening and a warm welcome awaits everyone at this Multi Award Winning destination attraction.

Aillwee is simply unmissable when visiting The Burren and County Clare. Unlock many secrets of The Burren through unique underground and overground Experiences. Be educated, engaged and entertained on your day out at Aillwee Burren Experience. Accompany the guides to the surprising Burren underworld @ Aillwee, unlocking an intriguing, timeless story. Closely appreciate the silent and majestic Birds of Prey @ Aillwee. Daily interactive Flying Displays reveal varied Raptor species that delight and excite.

The Farm Shop @ Aillwee is a ‘Hidden Gem’. Watch traditional, sustainable farmhouse methods used in creating the unique Award-Winning Burren Gold Cheese. Taste several varieties and creamy, buttery Fudge too! Sampling, of course, is encouraged! Enjoy an accessible, easy-going hike through the mature, eight-acre, native Holly, Ash and Hazel Woodland @ Aillwee. This unique landscape comes to life as you and your family explore the self-guided Biodiversity Walk. Discover terrific trees, amazing animals, gorgeous geology and fabulous flowers! For the Adventurer, Foodie and Explorer in you, discover it all at Aillwee Burren Experience. Visit www.aillweeburrenexperience.ie & get your #aillweeadventure underway.

PICTURED (left) Aillwee Cave Directors Nicky Johnson & Nuala Mulqueeney. Photo: Ken Williams; (above) a hawk walk at the Birds of Prey centre

North Clare

Moher fun for all the family WORDS ELAINE TUBRIDY MOHER HILL Open Farm is ideal for kids of all ages (and a certin reporter in her 30s!) Run by the Canavan family, many of the animals have been here since the farm opened in 2000 so almost all of them are happy to be hand-fed by complimentary bags packed full of the animals’ favourite tasty treats. “Even Ozzie the ostrich will eat out of your hand. They have been here most of them for 20 years and this is what they have done from Day 1. They know instantly when you’re coming up the field with your white paper bag and they start to make their way towards you,” says Martin Canavin. Set on a generous 14-acre site, take your time visiting the 60 or so animals including llamas, emu, deer, miniature donkeys, many different breeds of ponies and sheep, pot bellied pigs, kunekune pig, goats and fluffy rabbits. Moher Hill also houses an array of birds, including majestic peacocks. With the clouds rolling in over the Atlantic Ocean, weather is not always magic but fear not, Moher Hill Open Farm have covered all eventualities with extensive indoor facilities. They have a play area for the smallies, a bouncy castle, indoor (as well as outdoor) go karts, ball pool, picnic area, an indoor sandpit and an audio-visual display of traditional farming methods. Be sure to stop by their tea rooms for a treat after (the scones are unreal!). Moher Hill Open Farm are happy to cater for groups and will facilitate any occasion including birthdays and school tours.

Moher Hill Open Farm are open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm and Sunday from 12pm to 6pm. Admission costs €9 per child, €8 per adult and concessions are provided. Call them on 065 708 1071 or visit www.moherfarm.com for more information.

A happy little visitor to Moher Hill Farm feeding a goat and admiring the ponies

North Clare

A VISIT TO THE

Hylands Burren Hotel Hylands Burren Hotel is the lively centre of the tourist season in Ballyvaughan

Hylands Burren Hotel is located in the centre of the unspoiled and picturesque village of Ballyvaughan, which is on the mid-point of the Wild Atlantic Way and is surrounded by the mystical Burren. A wonderful location to base yourself for touring the Burren region, local visitors will be drawn by the indulgent dishes, barbecues and live music.

FOOD

Come to Hylands Burren Hotel and simply indulge yourself in a homely environment. Let your tastebuds savour a wonderful variety of expertly prepared dishes made with the finest local ingredients. Head Chef Vishnu Natarajan worked in the hotel industry throughout the world for 22 years, coming from working in some of Germany’s finest 5 star hotels and fine dining restaurants. “My inspiration for cooking comes from Marco Pierre White, Grant Achatz and Thomas Keller, who have inspired me to be innovative with cuisine, blending different cooking styles to produce unique and delicious flavours”. Bar Food is available everyday, restaurant dinner menu is Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, with barbecues on Sunday evenings during the summer season.

Live Music

Hylands is the only venue doing live gigs in Ballyvaughan. Enjoy an incredible variety of musical genres performed by superb musicians in the Fountain Bar. Live music takes place every night – trad, rock, jazz, bluegrass, piano, visiting bands & singer songwriters in concert, and open singers evening every second Wednesday where any musician could appear.

Stay

Have a great sleep in our premium quality beds. Wake refreshed and indulge once more in breakfast sourced from local craft butchers.

Burren Ecotourism

We are very committed participants in the Burren Ecotourism Network – One of our Directors, George Quinn is Chair of the Board of Directors of the Network.

(above) Hylands Head Chef Vishnu Natarajan and (top) visitors in front of Hylands Burren Hotel on Ballyvaughan Main Street

Burren Ecotourism Network secures Calor Ireland DEAL Calor Ireland has been announced as the main sponsor for the Burren Ecotourism Network as part of a 12-month partnership where Calor will collaborate on a number of key marketing campaigns planned for the coming year including the Burren Food Fayre, an annual food themed event in Lisdoonvarna over the October bank holiday weekend at Halloween. The Burren Ecotourism Network is made up of 67 businesses in the North Clare region, committed to the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark Code of Sustainable practices for tourism. The network’s philosophy is to work with tourism businesses to help them maintain and protect the environment, while helping them to promote the region as renowned Geopark. Ciara Toomey, Business Excellence Manager for Sustainability at Calor, was on hand to officially launch the sponsorship with Sharon Malone from The Falls Hotel, a Calor BioLPG customer and member of the Burren Ecotourism Networks. Sharon discussed the sustainability initiatives at the hotel, being part of the Burren Ecotourism Network and the benefits of Calor BioLPG. “Tourism and hospitality businesses can lead the way in sustainable tourism by switching to lower carbon intensive renewable energy solutions”, that’s the message from members who considerably reduced carbon emissions with Calor BioLPG. Jarlath O’Dwyer, CEO of the Burren Ecotourism Network said: “We are delighted to welcome Calor Ireland on board as network sponsors for 2022/23. The Burren Ecotourism Network has worked with Calor Ireland for the past four years through the Burren Food Fayre and the Burren Slow Food Festival. We feel that with their commitment to renewable energy through Calor BioLPG and its sustainability strategy Futuria makes them an excellent fit with our ethos of environmental protection.”

Eddie Healy, Deputy General Manager at Falls Hotel & Spa; Ciara Toomey, Business Excellence Manager for Sustainability at Calor’s parent company SHV Energy; Sean Devane, Sales Representative at Calor Ireland; Sharon Malone, Marketing & Digital Media Manager at Falls Hotel & Spa; and Jarlath O'Dwyer, CEO of the Burren Ecotourism Network

North Clare

Walking on Air’ in North Clare

North Clare company Airmid brings a breath of fresh air to Ennistymon Visit AIRMID on Main St Ennistymon where you can test the amazing freshly whipped organic body butter, hemp salves and plantain balms. Inhale the amazing blends of essential oil perfumes, sustainable candles and melts. Shop Guaranteed Irish art, craft and gifts from local producers. The design of the Airmid store in Ennistymon includes a vintage bath, salvaged from a forge in West Clare, upcycled and vintage furniture and Airmid’s own twist on retail. Airmid products are specially formulated for sensitive skin and contain no parabens, fragrances or artificial colours. The company began in Kilfenora as a truly home-grown enterprise in 2019, when Kevin, an organic horticulturist and his partner Tina Robinson were struggling to find skin products for their son who was born with eczema. They developed a unique pure chamomile soap, using herbs from their own garden. This was the first product created and is still one of the most popular sold. All soap bars are made by cold process, cut by hand and are cured for at least six weeks to ensure a luxury, long-lasting product.

Locally made soap & skincare collections with nature at the heart of their design

Since then, Airmid have developed a wide range of skincare products to include hemp salves, organic butters, oils, lotion bars, perfume, balms and gift sets – all with nature at the heart of their design. As well, grooming has become an essential part of a man’s daily routine and their Green Man range is designed for this. They have held on to one principle as they have grown the range: if it doesn’t come from nature, you won’t find it in any of their Airmid products. It’s that simple. A great deal of care goes into creating their products. And where they can, they shop local for ingredients. Beeswax and honey are collected from all the beekeepers locally, everything is as Irish as possible. When they shop further afield, ethical sourcing is important – they source organic Shea butter from Ghana where it is processed by local women, who are paid a fair price for their work. Dedication to using the purest, unprocessed ingredients is what has defined Airmid since its inception.

“Their dedication to only using the purest, unprocessed ingredients is what has defined the business since its inception”

Airmid are genuine manufacturers and the full Airmid collections are produced by hand in their Kilfenora workshop. All packaging is sustainable and printed in Ireland. Republic of Ireland Prestige Award 2022 - Best Producer of Natural Skincare Products Republic of Ireland EU Irish Business Awards 2022 - Best Corporate & Hospitality Natural Skincare Products Provider 2022

MAIN STREET, ENNISTYMON

www.airmidsoap.com

Burren cows whip up

a tasty treat for ice-cream lovers at Linnalla

Pictured are Roger and Brid Fahy enjoying some of their produce at Café Linnalla

WHAT better way to cool down on the Wild Atlantic Way than with a scoop (or three) of delicious homemade ice cream at Café Linnalla. Brid and Roger Fahy have perfected their product over a decade and believe there is no ice cream quite like it. “Our ice cream is different from everybody else’s because our cows are from here. “We use the milk of the shorthorn cows, a native little cow of the Burren. It’s a lovely milk because were a coastal farm, our cows are eating seaweeds and grass that you wouldn’t find in other places,” Brid says. The Fahy’s have farmed in New Quay for five generations and diversified in 2006 at the height of the Celtic Tiger, spending three years doing market research and learning their craft. Their hard work has paid off as they are proud winners of numerous accolades including being voted one of the fifty secrets of the Wild Atlantic Way and Irish Times No 21 in 50 ways to go green. Linnalla Café, part of the Burren Food Trail and affiliated with the Burren Ecotourism Network, is based just off the spectacular Flaggy Shore, a mecca for walkers made famous by Seamus Heaney in his poem Postscript where he says it “captures the heart off guard”. The pathway connecting the café to the Flaggy Shore gives you the option of having your coffee and ice cream after a walk on the Flaggy Shore. What’s Brid’s favourite flavour? “Usually once the blackberries come in season, I’d say it’s the nicest ice cream in the world,” she says.

Café Linnalla is open every day from St Patrick’s Day to Halloween from 11am to 7pm. Call 065 707 8167 or visit www.linnallaicecream. ie

North Clare

Market Munch

The Market House in Ennistymon is one of Clare’s greatest examples of farm to fork

WORDS ELAINE TUBRIDY

THE Market House traditional butcher shop, deli and café in Ennistymon was created in 2015 by father-daughter dream team Sean and Fiona Haugh. The Market House is unique in that all of the beef and lamb served in the deli and cafe comes directly from Sean Haugh’s farm. Sean has been sourcing beef and lamb for over 30 years from local farmers. All of the beef and lamb is sourced across North and West County Clare and is finished on the family farm, in the licensed EU standard abattoir, at Knockroe on the cliffs of Kilkee. “The beef and lamb is then finished on our farm where the sheep and cattle graze on the salt and clover covered pastures on the cliffs of Kilkee. Great quality grass makes for great tasting meat! The beef is dry aged for 21 days, a traditional method which ensures a remarkable depth in flavour in the meat. “Sean and his team of craft butchers are here to help you choose your weekend roast or inspiration for your weekly dinner. We are now making homemade black and white pudding cake freshly made in house. We are proud to be part of the Burren Food Trail

and to supply our produce directly to our customers and to local cafes and restaurants,” Fiona says. The Market House deli and cafe have a large selection of mouth wateringly delectable dishes, but Fiona reckons the steak sandwich and the house salad bowl are the most popular. Visitors will be spoiled for choice as the wide range of gourmet salads are served with a house cooked meat and brown stout bread. Yum! Fiona and Sean are proud to support local suppliers whenever possible. Most of their ingredients come from Celtic Salads in Bell Harbour, St Tolas Goats Cheese, Burren Smoked Salmon, Carrygerry Country House, the Real Olive Co in Cork and Sheridans Cheesemongers in Galway. When visiting a new area, it’s always wise to find the place packed to the rafters with locals. The Market House have a strong local trade, especially at lunchtime. They pride themselves on a speedy service so local people who are working will not be delayed. Fiona and Sean enjoy meeting and serving tourists from all over the world who have come to Clare to experience the Burren and Cliffs of Moher.

“We would get a large amount of tourists passing through on their way or coming from the Cliffs of Moher. As part of the Burren Ecotourism Network we have plenty of maps and guides of the local area,” Fiona adds. Fiona and Sean recognise that their business has a responsibility to conserve the natural asset that is the Burren Geopark. “We want to minimise our impact on the local environment and actively play a role in protecting and enhancing our local area for future generations,” Fiona says.

Call +353 65 707 2548 or visit markethouseennistymon. com to find out more. Pictured: one of the freshly produced dishes available at the Market House and (opposite) Sean Haugh on his farm near Kilkee

Live Clare

My Heart my home

Our contributors lift the lid on their favourite things to do, eat & see in Co Clare

Stuart Holly Clare Echo editor Best of local produce?

An almost impossible question to answer. I’ve been consuming St Tola’s Goats Cheese for about 25 years and enjoy it every bit as much now. It’s on my list to start visiting producers such as the Wilde Irish chocolate factory and J.J Corry in Cooraclare.

Favourite place to eat?

Many Ennisfolk will go for the infamous vol-au-vent at Poet’s Corner, but I always recommend the Town Hall. For years, it’s been setting the standard for dining in Clare. Honourable breakfast mention to Sweet n’ Green for their Chilli Eggs.

Favourite pub

I’ve got about 12 of them … on a local front it would be Lucas’s on Parnell Street. I also have nostalgic memories of cold, frothy pints of Guinness from Scott’s in Kilkee.

Day out?

I went there on my communion day and continue to visit - everything that Aillwee has to offer is top class. The Birds of Prey is great family day out and there are loads of options for walks, food & drinks in the Ballyvaughan area.

Hidden gem

The Lough Avalla Farm Looped Walk in the Burren – it’s full of surprises and while it doesn’t have the vast expanses of a coastal walk, there are incredible views of Mullaghmore and you’re sure to spot some grazing goats on the working farm. If you’re lucky, the local farmer and his family may even have their doors open to welcome you in for a cuppa tea. It’s about 6km long but feels a bit longer due to the hills, clints & grikes.

Favourite beach

Spanish Point is a really family-friendly blue flag beach and with the Bellbridge & Armada Hotels on its doorstep, there’s plenty of options for a post swim bite.

(above) Ryan Tubridy with "Al" the Harris Hawk, falconer Clodagh Helen and Siobhan King, Failte Ireland during a visit to the Birds of Prey Centre Photo by Eamon Ward

Elaine Tubridy Clare Echo sub-editor Best of local produce?

I have a sweet tooth and my favourite place to satisfy it is at the Pantry in Kilkee. Imelda has been baking treats from scratch for over 40 years and the thought of one of her scones makes my mouth water! Shoutout to Leo McInerney’s butchers in Kilrush, who has been keeping the Tubridy family well fed from his own herd for decades.

Favourite place to eat?

With a cosy, relaxed atmosphere and a delicious menu that champions locally produced food, Morrissey’s in Doonbeg is always a winner for me. I’d recommend booking a table as it’s a really popular spot with locals and tourists alike. Their fish tacos are to die for.

Favourite pub

There are so many great pubs in Clare, it’s really difficult to narrow it down. My favourite pub to catch up with friends is Crotty’s in Kilrush. There are lots of little nooks and crannies, almost guaranteeing a quiet spot to while away a few hours over a glass of wine. The Greyhound bar in Kilkee is my go-to for a great gig and a few pints

of cider of a Saturday night. Madigan’s Doonbeg is great for a high stool chat.

Day out?

A trip that stands out as a fantastic experience is dolphin watching on the Shannon Estuary. You can’t help but shriek with joy when you spot a dolphin leaping from the water. It’s also very special because the Shannon Estuary dolphins are the only known resident dolphins in Irish waters.

Hidden gem

The Hanging Gardens at Loop Head. Almost impossible to find unless you know what you’re looking for, the hanging gardens offer jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic. Sitting amongst the sea pinks and taking in the fresh sea air, it’s my favourite spot to practise mindfulness. Not for the faint hearted, this exposed cliff shelf is a definite no-no for smallies.

Favourite beach

Doughmore. With rarely calm seas and a crisp breeze to keep you moving, it’s a great place to clear the cobwebs from body and soul.

Rachel Porter Clare Echo columnist Best of local produce?

Café at the Armada Hotel for a coffee and cookie to warm up. After that, Favourite place to eat? get back in the car and head for a Little Johnny’s Pizza at the Armada coastal drive to Lahinch and Hotel on a sunny evening cannot be Doolin for a spot of late lunch in beaten! The food and the views are The Meadow. just incredible. Fresh sourdough bread from Sourdo’Farrell in Ennis. The best part is you can buy raw dough to make your own pizza at home too!

Favourite pub

Nora Cullinghams in Ennis, always has a great vibe there and I love when they have bands playing.

Day out?

Get on the road early to Miltown Malbay and have a dip in the White Strand, then head over to Gull’s

Hidden gem

Lissycasey Cascades Loop is a hidden gem for a nice walk.

Favourite beach

Has to be Quilty Beach as it’s quieter than other beaches which is perfect for us to bring the dog and go for a swim.

PICTURED Gulls Café at the Armada Hotel; (above that) the cascades in Lisseycasey and (main) Black Head in the Burren; (left) Imelda of The Pantry in Kilkee, a favourite spot of Elaine’s

Live Clare

Shane Gilligan

Clare Echo Head of Design Best of local produce?

Pyne’s Farm Produce. The Pynes have been producing a quality potatoes for a long time in Knockerra, Kilrush and have recently branched out to include other veg.

Favourite place to eat?

The Bellbridge at Spanish Point offer great food that caters to everyone. A great spot for large family gatherings or a Sunday dinner. However if you are looking for a more ‘grab and go’ type of food then Catch, located at the Armada Hotel, serve some of the best takeaway fish and chips you can find.

Favourite pub

Keoghs in Moyasta always has a great atmosphere and a great beer garden perfect for the summer sessions. The Galleon Inn in Cappa, Kilrush, has a lovely pint of Guiness.

Day out?

Scattery Island tours/ Rib adventures and the West Coast Aqua park offer great family days out.

Hidden gem

The Vandeleur Walled Garden is one of my favourite places to visit. There are many trails along Kilrush wood that lead you to the center that is the walled garden where you can

Favourite beach

A popular destination with holiday-makers, Kilkee beach is the perfect location to take a dip in the Wild Atlantic or chill with an ice cream.

PICTURED (above) Irenen Hamilton of Scattery Island Tours; (opposite) the pollock holes in Kilee and (below) the Vandeleur Walled Garden

Live Clare

Make a splash at West Coast Aqua

West Coast and West Lake Aqua are turning Clare’s waterways into areas of adventure West Coast Aqua Park has been breathing more life into the vibrant Kilrush Marina since it opened in 2019, with the aquatic park expanding since then in both Kilrush and on Lough Derg in East Clare where it operates a second park. Offering families and friends the chance to go island hopping on a twenty-two piece inflatable aqua park, Kilrush’s five-island inflatable waterpark invites visitors to test their skills by sliding, bouncing, and climbing their way through various obstacles. The sister site is Killaloe’s West Lake Aqua Park, a trip to either would provide the perfect group outing. The park can accommodate large groups and includes a specialised disability friendly service to cater for all individuals that are looking to get out on the water. And the big kids can’t have all the fun - West Coast Aqua have also opened a kiddy Splash Park for children aged between 2-5 years old. Sessions last 30 minutes, cost €15 per child and adults must accompany the children on the park. Owner Wayne Slattery revealed that the park has been designed to get families into the water, irrespective of any level of physical fitness. The park employs both a land and a water team, made up of young lifeguards within the community. The land team checks people in and ensures all safety procedures and administrative work is carried out. The water team then takes over, once wet suits and buoyancy aids have been assigned to individuals and safely bringing everyone to their inflatable islands.

PICTURED West Coast Aqua Park at Kilrush Marina and (right) the kiddy splash park for children aged 2-5

PICTURED West Lake Aqua Park in Killaloe

SCHOOL TOURS • SCOUTS BIRTHDAY PARTIES SUMMER CAMPS FLIGHT SIMUL ATION AVIATION MUSEUM

A W O R L D of A V I A T I O N Link Road, Shannon, Co. Clare, Ireland • www.shannonaviationmuseum.com P: 061 363687 • E: info@shannonaviationmuseum.com

Live Clare

Top 5 holes WORDS PADRAIG MCGRATH

Clare golf pro Padraig McGrath names his top five golf holes in the county.

WOODSTOCK 7TH, PAR 4 This Par 4 Index 1 is a spectacular tee shot from an elevated tee box with a carry of over 200 yards over water. There is a bailout area to the right but if you want to reach this hole in two you must take on the carry. Even after a good tee shot you have anything from 170 yards carry to reach the front of the green. This green is severely sloped front to back with a steep ridge running through the centre of the green. You can’t relax on this hole until your ball in is the bottom of the cup. It truly is one of the greatest golf holes in Ireland. SHANNON 17TH, PAR 3 This par 3 is situated along the Shannon estuary. There is always a stiff breeze blowing either from the estuary or from the jet engines of a Boeing waiting to take off. From the back tee is 224 yards with almost 200 yards to clear the estuary. Into a stiff breeze this is a test for skilled golfers and has destroyed many a scorecard. DROMOLAND 7TH, PAR 3

(Dromoland Golf Course, pictured right)

If breath-taking scenery is what your after the 7th at Dromoland will leave you speechless. I’m a member since 1990 and the view of the castle beyond the lake from this tee is astounding. Once you have taken in the scenery you are looking at a very elevated tee shot with trouble all around the green. To the left you have a lake that cleverly hugs the side of the green and to the right is a deep bunker that awaits and shot that drifts right. Watch the Tricolour at the castle for wind and beware - just because your playing partner had the wind behind them doesn’t mean it will be helping you. The wind here is like Augusta’s swirls around Amen Corner. DOONBEG 1ST, PAR 5 The opening tee shot at Doonbeg is like hitting from an amphitheatre. You are surrounded by the clubhouse building where you know eyes are watching. This shot is hit from an elevated tee box looking down to a perfectly cut fairway with the Atlantic roaring from your left. Standing on this tee the scenery is magical. Even if you hit a good tee shot here you are still left with a decision whether to go for the green in two. Beware though if you do decide to take it on, hitting it straight is crucial. Otherwise you will be brutally punished with the long wispy rough protecting this green.

LAHINCH 6TH, PAR 4

(pictured above)

One of my favourite holes in golf. Your tee from the back tee needs to be close to 240 yards, anything longer brings a deep mine into play where you’ll surely drop at least a shot. This tee shot sets up perfectly for a golfer who draws the ball. Even after positioning your tee shot, you are left with anything from 180 yards to an extremely narrow green well below the fairway. Words can’t describe the view from your second shot. The vastness of the Atlantic sits behind this green with Liscannor Bay to the right. This green has punishing rough to the left and two steep pothole bunkers protecting the right of the green. The green is two tiered with plenty of slopes so even if you hit the green in two, a two putt par is an exceptional score.

PICTURED (left) the stunning par 4 6th at Lahinch and (right) Dromoland Castle Golf Course, where the Womens Irish Open is being held this summer

Play Child’s

Five ways to keep the kids entertained in Clare MOHER HILL FARM Moher Hill Open Farm & Leisure Park is home to a wide variety of animals and has a wide range of activities to ensure that all ages are kept entertained. (More on page 26) DENNIS’S DEN Dennis’s Den is great for the little ones, with a ‘Toddlers Area’ with ball pool, slide and play area, split into two areas (under 2 and 2-5). Adventure Land includes a 16ft free–fall slide, giant ball pool, a wavy slide, and much more. There’s also a coffee shop including Sky Sports TV for the adults. Call 065 682 9648. THE PLANET For bigger kids, you just can’t go wrong at The Planet, Ennis. Bowling, laser tag, tumble towers, astro soccer, birthday parties, arcades. They have it all. 065 6866777. AILLWEE CAVES A visit to Aillwee Caves is a right of passage for many Clare children. The most mystical setting in Clare, while hugely educational. The birds of prey centre has added another amazing dimension to Aillwee in recent years. There are also a host of goodies for the parents. (More on page 24) WEST COAST AQUA

(pictured)

Kilrush’s five-island inflatable waterpark invites visitors to test their skills by sliding, bouncing, and climbing their way through various obstacles. The sister site is Killaloe’s West Lake Aqua Park, a trip to either would provide the perfect group outing.

County Clare is amazing. Take it ALL in!

Clare 's i ld AtlaW ntic W ay

Atlantic Ocean

The Burren and Cliffs of Moher

Ireland's Hidden Heartlands

Ennis Shannon Airpor t

Eas t Clare

nnon a h S r ve gh Derg i R e Th nd Lou a

nnon ThetuSahray Way Es Loop Head Peninsula • The amazing beaches, cliffscapes, and seascapes along Clare's Wild Atlantic Way. • The spectacular Loop Head Peninsula, and the Shannon Estuary Way. • The famous Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. UN

Take the time me to EXPL EXPLORE LOR ORE nd be be County Clare, and rewarded with wonderful derrful experiences and fond memories.

• Ireland's Ire Hidden Heartlands - the River Shannon, the East Clare Lakelands, Shan and Lough Derg Blueway for great activities. act Welc • Welcoming towns and villages offering a wealth we of dining options, his historical attractions, traditional enter attraction entertainment, and craft craf shopping. • Wonderful Wo activity, spor sporting, leisure, and heritage attraction attractions.

For great ideas, check out VisitClare.ie sitClare.ie ®

21-07-22

pg23

pg24

GROUP 1

21-07-22

WHITEGATE

FEAKLE

Replicating 2021 finish Feakle treating is the goal for Whitegate opening round as EOIN BRENNAN

HERE was a real sense of déjà vu as Whitegate were drawn out as the third team of five in the latest Group of Death and therefore receiving a first round bye for the second successive season. Manager Terence Fahy would gladly take a repeat performance of their 2021 campaign that saw them finish with aplomb and almost snatch a historic quarter-final spot. In a group involving Inagh/Kilnamona, Kilmaley, Clonlara and O’Callaghan’s Mills, all of whom had contested at least a semi-final in the previous four years, Whitegate were initially seen as the relegation candidate but after lowering O’Callaghan’s Mills, they had Clonlara on the rack in the next round only to let them off the hook at the death while drawing with eventual county finalists Inagh-Kilnamona in the final round. “The team got better and improved with every round last year,” reflected manager Terence Fahy. “We blew a few chances we had in the group to get an extra win or two which we didn’t take but our lads played very well last year so hopefully we can get into the same groove again in the next couple of weeks”. MANAGEMENT: Terence Fahy (Manager); Kenneth Doyle; Patrick Minogue; Dave Moriarty (S&C) CAPTAIN: Eoin Quirke KEY PLAYER: Eoin Quirke ONE TO WATCH: Conor Whelan FRESH BLOOD: Finn Madden, Conor Whelan DEPARTURES GATE: Colin Burke (abroad), Tommy Hogan (abroad)

While their group rivals locked horns in the opening round, Whitegate were forced to wait a week before commence their championship campaign and it’s an identical process this time around, not that Fahy is complaining. “It was a help last year because we’ve a very tight panel so we had injuries the same as every team does and therefore it bought us a little bit more time and it’s the same this year. We’ve a few injuries that we hope can clear up in time over the next two weeks so for a light panel numbers-wise, I think it is nice to have the bye in the first round. “Everybody told us last year that it was a disadvantage but in truth, it can swing either way. Newmarket will have the advantage of having a match under their belts and being up and running whereas we’ll have that extra week to get ready so it will just come down to who can perform best on the day really.” Only Clonlara remain from last year’s quintet but if anything the quality has increased as 2019 and ’20 champions Sixmilebridge, last year’s semi-finalists Newmarket and 2021 Clare Cup champions Feakle are all vying with Whitegate for only two quarter-final berths. “I would think it’s an open group, Initially it was seen as the group of death but we were also involved in one last year which turned out to be a very open group so hopefully it will be the same this year too”. TITLES WON: 2 MOST RECENT TITLE: 1961 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Ear-marked for another tilt with relegation, Whitegate not only proved their doubters wrong but realistically should have been celebrating a quarter-final breakthrough had they completed the job against Clonlara

do or die contest EOIN BRENNAN

HILE 2021 was ultimately a successful one for Feakle after garnering their first senior silverware since 1988, there’s still no hiding from the disappointment of a premature championship exit. While it was admittedly a much more condensed league campaign due to COVID, bridging a 33 year gap to their last Clare Cup crown seemed like the perfect stepping stone to push on in the race for the Canon Hamilton. After all, having reached back-to-back quarter-finals since their unforeseen year of purgatory in intermediate, the welcome boost of silverware should have been the catalyst to be in the shake up for honours. While a thrilling opener against Clooney-Quin only yielded a draw, a gritty victory over Newmarket-on-Fergus left Feakle on top of the group table heading into the final round. However, for the second successive year, Éire Óg proved the death knell to their championship hopes as the East Clare side were agonisingly dumped out of the championship at the group stages. With Éire Óg and Newmarket both ending up in the semi-finals, it has been an itch that has taken almost twelve months to scratch but finally Feakle have the opportunity to make amends. And as manager PJ Kelleher acknowledges, in such an evenly-matched group, there is little wiggle room for error with only two emerging to the knock-out stages. “It’s a very competitive group as realisti-

MANAGEMENT: PJ Kelleher (Manager), Tomás Downes (Coach), Henry Hayes, Raymond Nelson (Selectors); Mike Carmody (S&C) CAPTAIN: Con Smyth KEY PLAYER: Shane McGrath ONE TO WATCH: Ronan O’Connor FRESH BLOOD: Conor McGann, Oisin O’Connor, Ronan O’Connor, Sean Walsh DEPARTURES GATE: Cathal Collins,

cally every team will feel that they can beat each other in it. I mean, just look at the other four teams. Newmarket are obvious the seeded team after contesting last year’s semi-final, Sixmilebridge were going for a three-in-a-row of titles last year, Clonlara are always contenders while Whitegate should have beaten Clonlara last year. So in that sense, every match will seem like a knock-out tie.” Having patiently bided their time for championship lift-off, Feakle are presented with an arduous start as they face Clonlara and Sixmilebridge in the space of eight days. “You’re always trying to get a win in the first round because it really sets the tone and settles you into your stride. However, every team is obviously targeting the same thing so all we can do is focus on ourselves and hoping that will be enough to overcome Clonlara. “It’s a quick turnaround until we play Sixmilebridge a week later and while we are only concentrated on Clonlara, we will know a lot about where we stand after those two games in the space of a week”. For a squad that has never been plentiful at the best of times, a succession of recent injuries has provided additional headaches ahead of this crucial first week. “We began to pick up a few injuries recently [Con Smyth, Evan McMahon, Oisin Donnellan, Fiachra Donnellan] and having a tight enough group of players anyway numbers-wise, we’ll have to hope that they can recover in time for Saturday. “Either way, we won’t be using that as an excuse, it’s a chance for others to stand up and we just have to get on with it and put our best foot forward for Saturday.”

Colm Naughton TITLES WON: 6 MOST RECENT TITLE: 1988 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Entered with real momentum following first Clare Cup title in 33 years but ending with a shuddering halt as their quarter-final hopes were dashed in a dramatic final round turnaround that saw them go from top to third following defeat to Éire Óg.

GROUP 1

21-07-22

pg25

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS

Blues must back up glimmers of progress EOIN BRENNAN

HERE has been a renaissance in Newmarket-on-Fergus over the past two seasons that has given the Blues a new lease of life at senior level. Having soared to the heights of that long-awaited 2012 Canon Hamilton crown, their star appeared to wane in reMANAGEMENT: Tomás Ryan (Manager); James Carrig, Brian Clancy, Alan Barrett, Brian Enright, Brian Lawlor (Coach); Derek Morris (S&C) CAPTAIN: John Feehily KEY PLAYER: Enda Barrett ONE TO WATCH: Peter Power FRESH BLOOD: Adam Enright, Sol Frost, Seadhna Liddy, Jason O’Neill, Niall Woods DEPARTURES GATE: James ‘Jellies’ Power (abroad) TITLES WON: 23 MOST RECENT TITLE: 2012 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Following a perfect Clare Cup run, the Blues carried that form into the championship by reaching a first semi-final since 2017 and coming within a point of eventual champions Ballyea. cent seasons as brushes with relegation in 2016 and ’18 were compounded by group stage finishes in 2019 and ’20. However, with an injection of youth from final appearances in Minor B (2019), Under 21A (2021) and B (2019), Newmarket’s experienced core have been rejuvenated once more under manager Tomás Ryan. Indeed, with a competitive record of 16 victories in their last 20 league and championship outings that has included promotion back to Division 1A of the Clare Cup and last year’s championship semi-final appearance, it’s easy to see why the Mossy

Ryan and his side are wagering awaiting the latest senior championship race. “Overall we would have been happy with the progress we made last year. Although we were disappointed not to get to the county final, we have to acknowledge that we did made progress. “The Clare Cup this year, while it was disrupted with injuries, we didn’t have a huge inter-county contingent so we had a good pick. We were delighted to get out of the division. It wasn’t one of our targets at the start of the year but we were still happy to get promoted”. Arguably faced with their toughest evaluation first in their nearest and dearest neighbours Sixmilebridge, it won’t get any easier as Whitegate made their championship bow against the Blues only seven days later. “Ourselves, the ‘Bridge and Feakle are out the first two weekends and it could be a good thing or a bad thing depending on results and injuries of course but until you get into it, you don’t know how it’s going to pan out. It’s a seven day turnaround but we should be able to cope with that.We’re not thinking about Whitegate yet though as we can’t look past Saturday. We have to put everything into that first game against the ‘Bridge. “To be honest, all teams will look at the group and fancy their chances of getting out of it. So it is going to be very tight and no doubt it will come down to the last weekend.They’re all tough games but we’ve got Sixmilebridge to start with who have been the stand-out team of the last number of years. It will be a tough ask but we just need to look at ourselves and see how we can perform. If we can perform and win, great but once we get a performance out of the lads, we’ll be happy.” Éanna Crimmins in action for Newmarket-on-Fergus. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

pg26

21-07-22

SIXMILEBRIDGE

GROUP 1

Stack driving efforts to Bridge generational gap in pursuit of further glory MANAGEMENT: Sean Stack (Manager), Adrian Chaplin, Jim Fitzgerald, Niall Gilligan, Michael O’Halloran CAPTAIN: Caimin Morey KEY PLAYER: Seadna Morey ONE TO WATCH: Luke O’Halloran FRESH BLOOD: Lorcan Fitzpatrick, Colm Flynn, David Kennedy, Luke O’Halloran, Aidan Quiligan DEPARTURES GATE: Alex Morey (Injured), Jason Loughnane (travel) TITLES WON: 15 MOST RECENT TITLE: 2020 Last season’s run: Faced with the burden of trying to chase down a historic three-in-a-row of Canon Hamilton titles, Sixmilebridge eased through the group stages but found it tough to up the ante against a ravenous Éire Óg side gunning for revenge.

Best wishes to all teams in this years hurling championships Seadna Morey has been in flying form for Sixmilebridge this season Photo by Gerard O’Neill

EOIN BRENNAN

AVING amassed five senior championship crowns in just eight seasons as recently as 2020, there were signs last season that Sixmilebridge’s most successful side were beginning to wane. There were no alarm bells ringing, merely that there had been little fresh blood injected into the flagship side over the past few seasons and that a replenishment process was required to maintain their title contention status. Central to that assimilation process is the return of club legend Sean Stack to the helm for the first time in 18 years as his perennial enthusiasm for Sixmilebridge and indeed all things hurling is simply infectious. “I’m delighted to be involved with this bunch of players. It’s most enjoyable and challenging and anything to do with being in a dressing room in a hurling field, give it to me any day of the week. “We’re in with a team that some say are ageing, some say have a lot done and we haven’t won a minor or Under 21 in a good few years. Now we’re not playing the poor mouth by any means but we’re definitely trying to rejuvenate a bunch that have an awful lot done. “The Clare Cup campaign went well for us, we loved every minute of it, we got what we wanted out of it and we’ve tried to open doors and freshen everything up and it seems to have been enjoyable for everyone. “However, whether we’re contenders for a championship or not, that will only be known down the road but we’re going

to give a right shot anyway. “And who best to start the championship than facing our neighbours Newmarket. It’s the perfect draw for us to tune in our minds.” The prospect of rekindling acquaintances with the Blues fits perfectly into Stack and Co’s plan to really test their newlook side over the coming weeks. “We’re in a tough group that we’re happy to be in, with four competitive matches whereas last year Sixmilebridge kind of waltzed through their group without having to exert themselves too much and then we caught in the headlights when tested in the quarter-finals. So we’re hoping that this group will do us good if we’re lucky to come out at the end of it.” With Newmarket and Feakle commencing Sixmilebridge’s championship credentials in the opening week, it’s a demanding challenge that Stack is relishing to kickstart their campaign. “If you were asked to pick out two strong, physical teams in the county, we’re facing both in the first seven days so we know the challenge that’s up against us. We’ve good work done, of course we have the experience too of a lot of lads with four or five county medals and the injection of youth has helped to fresh things up. Because as the saying goes if you stay put, you’re going backwards, end of story.”

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GROUP 1

21-07-22

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CLONLARA

Clonlara hoping to add result to injury EOIN BRENNAN

VERYTHING appeared to be motoring along nicely for Clonlara until the Clare Cup Final a fortnight ago. Up to that point, Donal Madden’s return as manager, having already secured a senior championship crown as a player in 2008, couldn’t have gone much better as his new-look side secured eight victories in ten matches, with the prospect of early season silverware merely a welcome bonus. What seemed a win-win situation quickly descended into lose-lose though as a below-par final display against Kilmaley was accelerated by a succession of injuries that proved a harrowing situation for players, management and supporters. Already without John Conlon, Oisin O’Brien, Cillian Fennessy, Ger Powell and Cian Moriarty, Clonlara would see captain Cathal O’Connell, former All-Star Colm Galvin and Gareth Kennedy join the casualty list in that final. “Putting it mildly, it was a difficult day” admitted Madden upon reflection of that final. “We performed really, really well in all our games and got to try out lots of players so it was really positive. Unfortunately,

we didn’t perform in the final and in the meantime we’ve gone back through it and looked at why it happened but overall, we were extremely disappointed with our performance and equally as deflating for us is the number of injuries we picked up on that day. “It is what it is though and we just have to get up and go at it. We’ve had good minor and Under 21 teams in the past few years and we also have a big panel and we have a lot of faith in these players. So they’ve earned and deserve their chance so let’s see how they perform on Saturday.” Considering the turnover of players, an already tough start against Feakle has become all the more strenuous but Madden is optimistic that with four group matches, his side will still be in with a shout come the final round. “Everyone wants to win that first game because it gives you that huge lift but with four matches in the group, even if it doesn’t happen, you have time to regroup and go at it again. “After the first round, we’ve a three week break until we play Whitegate so it’s all about throwing everything on Feakle this Saturday and then regrouping for the next challenge. At the end of the day, there are five very evenly balanced teams in it as anybody can beat anybody and it will probably come down to the last day and who knows, scoring difference could well come into it again”.

MANAGEMENT: Donal Madden (Manager); Niall Hogan, Ger O’Connell, Seamus Hogg, Mike Stritch; Eric Finn (S&C) CAPTAIN: Cathal O’Connell KEY PLAYER: John Conlon ONE TO WATCH: Seimí Gully FRESH BLOOD: James McCormack, Louis McCormack DEPARTURES GATE: Ciaran Downey, Cillian O’Brie TITLES WON: 2 MOST RECENT TITLE: 2008 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Embroiled in the group of death, Clonlara were competitive throughout and had a glorious opportunity to snatch a first quarter-final place since 2019. However, despite a grandstand finish to earn a drawn in their winner-takes-all final round showdown against Kilmaley, Clon missed out on score difference to their opponents. Dylan McMahon has been moved to the centre-back berth for Clonlara Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

pg28

GROUP 2

21-07-22

CLARECASTLE Magpies determined to avail of relegation lifeline SEAMUS HAYES

LARECASTLE go into this season’s championship determined to show that they have benefited from the experience gained last year. “Our aim is to give a good account of ourselves and to get out of the group but right now we are not looking past the first round. There is no point in looking beyond that. If we look past that we will be well beaten. Cratloe are an experienced team. They have been in the latter stages of the championship”, Clarecastle manager Brian Russell said this week. “The lads that made their debut last year are a year older and wiser and hopefully they will continue to progress and show the potential they have. We have experienced players also and we will be looking for them to do their work and support the younger players”, the manager added. When it comes to the Magpies in senior championship, there is an expectation to deliver. “There is always pressure when you are in Clarecastle. It’s seventeen years since we last won and there were longer spells prior to that without a title. I don’t feel pressure to win a championship but the pressure is to perform”. Russell is satisfied that “there is a lot of work being done at underage level. We

have won a minor title not so long ago and we were in two finals at minor level in recent years. Trying to get these lads to keep playing the game is a challenge at times. Look if we get two or three every year to progress to senior level it will be good”. Among the young players drafted into the panel this year are James Doherty Sean Egan and Evan O’Connell all of whom have shown flashes of their skill during league action this season For now everything is geared towards their meeting with Cratloe on Saturday. The team is captained this year by Bobby Duggan who missed much of the early season league action due to injuMANAGEMENT: Brian Russell (manager); Shane Mullane (coach) Anthony Daly (selector), Colin Higgins (selector), James McMahon (selector), Eric Flynn (selector); Catriona McMahon(Analysis); Bernie O’Regan (physio) CAPTAIN: Bobby Duggan KEY PLAYER: Darragh Healy ONE TO WATCH: Rory O’Connell FRESH BLOOD: James Doherty Sean Egan, Evan O’Connell, Aaron Hayes,

Wishing Clarecastle Senior Hurlers the best of luck for 2022 Senior Hurling Championship

ry. With five wins from nine games they finished in the top half of the Division 1B league table. Killian McDermott, Darragh Healy and James Doheraty were amongst the players to impress in the league when the experienced Stephen O’Halloran and Patrick Kelly also made valuable contributions. Finishing bottom of their group last year and then being involved in a relegation battle hurt Clarecastle hurling people. Those involved are determined there won’t be a repeat this year. Niall Tuohy, Niall Brigdale DEPARTURE GATE: Stephen Ward, Josh Brack, Dylan Brown TITLES WON: 11 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Finished bottom of group. Relegated but survived when Crusheen successfully appealed relegation format. SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Cratloe Round 2 v O’Callaghans Mills Round 3 v Ballyea Round 4 a bye Round 5 v Broadford

Rory O’Connell comes into the championship off the back of a strong league for Clarecastle Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Wishing the Clarecastle senior hurlers every success in 2022

GROUP 2

BALLYEA

21-07-22

pg29

Ballyea undaunted by favourites tag SEAMUS HAYES

ITH the race for the Canon Hamilton trophy set to get under way this Saturday, there is, understandably, much speculation among followers as to who will take home the trophy come the end of the campaign. One of the big talking points relates to the current champions, Ballyea and whether or not they can retain the title. Having won the first of their three titles in 2016 they were again crowned champions in 2018 and then, after a two year wait, they bounced back last year. There is a strong body of opinion which supports the view that they will retain the title and one of the reasons for this is that Gearoid O’Connell and Cathal Doohan, both key players when they made the breakthrough in 2016, are available this year having returned home following spells in the US and Australia respectively “Look, while we are delighted to have Gearoid and Cathal back, we are not looking past Saturday’s meeting with O’Callaghans Mills. You can only take one step at a time and our focus is completely on O’Callghans Mills and we will be doing all we can to get a result here”, manager Robbie Hogan told the Clare Echo. Robbie led the team to their inaugural success in 2016 when they went on to add the Munster title to their winnings before losing out to Dublin’s Cuala in the All-Ireland final. He is also pleased to have Damian Burke available. “Damian has had a lot of injuries over the past couple of years but things have

been going well so far this season and he captained the club’s junior A side to league honours just last week. The champions used the recently concluded Clare cup campaign “as a hunting ground to see what players were available and to integrate the new lads with the established players. With so many inter county players in the panel, there was no great continuity in the league”, he said. They will start their campaign this week with a couple of players who were regulars last season. “Cian Meaney has just had surgery to sort a troublesome leg injury while Darragh Bohannon, a member of last year’s panel, is also recovering from surgery following an injury suffered while playing with the Clare senior footballers”. Due to time constraints, one of the stars of their three wins in recent years, Gary Brennan hasn’t returned to training but club supporters are hopeful that as the season progresses he will be available. With so many dual players in the panel is the manager concerned about the busy schedule they are facing. “From an organisational point of view we know what is in front of us, a vigorous campaign that we will have to navigate our way through but right now the complete focus is on the first round”, he concluded.

Jack Browne will form a key pillar of the Ballyea defence at centre back Photo by Gerard O’Neill

MANAGEMENT: Robbie Hogan (manager); Raymond O’Connor, Diarmuid O’Sullivan, Jude Quinlivan (selectors) Adrian O’Brien (Coach and S&C); Alan Duggan (goalkeeping coach and stats); Kieran Connolly (Physio) CAPTAIN: James Murphy; KEY PLAYER: Tony Kelly; ONE TO WATCH: Morgan Garry FRESH BLOOD: Gearoid O’Connell, Cian Kirby, Fergal Guinane, Cathal Doohan, Fiachra Kirby.

DEPARTURE GATE: TITLES WON: 3 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Champions, topped group with 2 wins and a draw on the way to the title. SCHEDULE: Round 1 v O’Callaghans Mills Round 2 v Broadford Round 3 v Clarecastle Round 4 v Cratloe Round 5 a bye

pg30

21-07-22

CRATLOE

GROUP 2

Cratloe sweating on availability of McGrath for championship opener SEAMUS HAYES

S a top ranked team in both senior hurling and football the high number of dual players in the club are facing two months in which they will have a championship game every week and this will be a longer campaign if they progress to the knock out stage of the championships. “They are well used to this”, according to hurling manager Conor Earley. The Tubber native admits that “there is always pressure. It’s eight years now since they won a title and in that time they have been competing very strongly. The pressure to win comes from the players”. Like most of his fellow managers, Earley stresses that “the focus of the hurlers right now is on the meeting with Clarecastle. The first game is vital and

MANAGEMENT: Conor Earley (manager), Joe McGrath (selector), Jody O’Connor (selector), John O’Gorman (selector), Aaron Carroll (selector), Oscar O’Dwyer (S&C); Ger Crotty (Physio) CAPTAIN: Cathal McIerney KEY PLAYER: Diarmuid

we have only had out county players back with us in the past two weeks. We have to take it one game at a time”, he said. As they complete their preparations for their opening game against Clarecastle, there is concern for the fitness of their most experienced player Conor McGrath who is a key member of their squad. Clare’s All-Ireland medal winner from 2013 is struggling to shake off a hand injury and a final decision on whether or not he will play against the Magpies won’t be made until nearer match time. Aaron Costigan is out for the season due to a long term injury. Should Conor McGrath fail to recover from injury in time to play this week, it will represent a big blow to the team as he has been a key performer for the side throughout the past decade. They will be looking to team captain Cathal McInerney, the Collins brothers, Podge, David and Sean, Gearoid Ryan, Shane Gleeson, and Liam Markham to lead the way.

Ryan ONE TO WATCH: Sam Sheedy FRESH BLOOD: Sam Sheedy; DEPARTURE GATE: Shane O’Leary(emigrated) TITLES WON: 2 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Fin-

ished second in group before losing quarter final clash to Inagh/Kilnamona SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Clarecastle Round 2 a bye; Round 3 v Broadford Round 4 v Ballyea Round 5 v O’C. Mills;

Conor McGrath is a doubt for Cratloe

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

GROUP 2

21-07-22

pg31

BROADFORD

Broadford building up to cause an upset SEAMUS HAYES

ROADFORD manager Jimmy Browne sees the challenge facing him and his backroom team as two fold, to deepen their panel and to get a consistency of performance. “Our focus for the past two years has been to build a depth in our panel and to bring about a situation where we can have twenty four players capable of being part of a senior panel. I believe we are getting there. The performance comes from the amount of work done. I am happy we can be competitive if we get the level of performance”, the manager told the Clare Echo. While he sees some disadvantages with the league structure where teams have 9 games, he said it provided Broadford with the chance to use 31 players in that competition this year. “That is something that Broadford were never in a position to do. The cup campaign this year has forced us to give experience to those players and that can only be positive. We achieved reasonably well in the cup competition and that is part of the building process. A downside of nine cup games is that it’s hard to get a block of training done. We picked up a few injuries

Broadford will be counting on Paddy Donnellan to deliver

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during that campaign”. As part of a group of five in this year’s championship, they find themselves having a bye in round one. “It would be ideal to have a game before we face champions Ballyea but there was always going to be a bye and we happen to get it first. It will give up a chance to get a handle on the opposition as we will get to see them play. Going into that game cold, they will have an edge and then they have the best hurler in the country which gives them an edge,” the Clonlara native surmised. Cian Cremins and Darren McNamara who suffered cruciate injuries last year are making good progress and while next week’s first outing has come too soon for them, they are expected to see action during this campaign which is good news for the club. Fresh from his role in this season’s Harty Cup and All-Ireland colleges campaign with Ard Scoil Ris, Niall O’Farrell has joined the club’s senior panel. The manager would favour a format where all groups would be equal in size (4x4) but he acknowledges that it will take “a year or two of transition to bring this about”. He is delighted that the championship is getting under way. “Look it’s great to be talking about the club championship in July when pitches will be good”, he concluded.

MANAGEMENT: Jimmy Browne (Manager); Kieran Corcoran, Darragh O’Sullivan, Kevin Ryan, Aonghus O’Brien (selectors) Dara Kennedy(S &C and physio), Emmett Browne (S&C); Padraic Boland (Stats/video analysis) CAPTAIN: Diarmuid Moloney KEY PLAYER: Paddy Donnellan ONE TO WATCH: Niall O’Farrell FRESH BLOOD: Niall O’Farrell DEPARTURE GATE: None TITLES WON: None LAST SEASON’S RUN: Finished 3rd in group before losing to Feakle in senior B championship. SCHEDULE: Round 1 a bye Round 2 v Ballyea Round 3 v Cratloe Round 4 v O’Callaghans Mills Round 5 v Clarecastle

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GROUP 2

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O’CALLAGHANS MILLS Mills on a mission to return to knockout stages SEAMUS HAYES

HILE those involved with the various teams setting out in the race for the Clare senior hurling championship may have different views as to their chances of winning the title, they all agree that how they do in the opening tie is most important. “The first game is very important and in our case we are playing the county champions, a very serious team. We will have to be on top of our game”, O’Callaghans Mills manager Donach O’Donnell told The Clare Echo this week. “The league gave us an opportunity to try out a lot of players as injuries, holidays and inter county commitments meant that we were without a number of our panel for most games. This meant that we got a lot of game time into the players and we succeeded in getting promoted to the top division”, the Tipperary based manager said. Noting that “O Callaghans Mills are in a very tough group” he said “the Clare championship is very tight. Last year we lost three of our group games by a point while in the previous year a point was the winning margin in a number of our games. Every game is important as there is nothing between many of the teams”. Asked about having two rounds in a week he said, “A six or seven day turnaround is very tight especially if you have injuries. Ideally I would love to have two weeks between each match but it is what it is and we have got to deal with it”. “Right now we are not looking past Saturday’s first round. We can’t afford to look beyond that game. We will have a fair idea where we are after our game with Ballyea which will be a really good benchmark. We will find out quickly where we are after playing the champions”, he said From last year’s panel Ciaran Cooney is unavailable as he is overseas. Teenagers Fionn Hickey, Mikey McMahon, Colm Cleary and Dara Moroney who helped St. Josephs Tulla win a first ever Dr. Harty Cup have been added to the panel where they will like up with the experienced Bryan and Pat Donnellan, Conor and Gerry Cooney, Jacob Loughnane and Colin Crehan to mention some. The Mills have been knocking of the door in this competition in recent years but they have yet to get over the line. They have contested a couple of finals, the most recent being two years ago but a lack of consistency has proved costly on a few occasions. They will be hoping to build on a good league run which saw them reach the quarter finals.

Colin Crehan is one of the more potent goal-scorers in the Clare SHC

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

MANAGEMENT: Donach O’Donnell (manager), Marty Baker (selector), Tom Crehan (selector), Ollie Nash (selector); Seanie McNamara (selector) and Aaron O’Connell(coach/ selector), Kelvin Harold (S&C), Mike Weaving (physio) JOINT CAPTAINS: Sean O’Gorman and Bryan Donnellan KEY PLAYER: Colin Crehan ONE TO WATCH; Colm Cleary FRESH BLOOD: Mikey

McMahon, Colm Cleary, Dara Moroney DEPARTURE GATE: Ciaran Cooney; TITLES WON: 6 (Kilkishen won the title in 1932) LAST SEASON’S RUN: Lost all four group games but survived relegation with wins over Clarecastle and Clooney/ Quin SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Ballyea Round 2 v Clarecastle Round 3 a bye Round 4 v Broadford Round 5 v Cratloe;

GROUP 3

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EIRE ÓG

Éire Óg going all out for hurling breakthrough SEAMUS HAYES

AVING come close in recent seasons to a breakthrough at senior ranks, Éire Óg will feel a certain degree of pressure to ensure this materialises on the hurling field this year. With just two wins from nine outings in the recently concluded senior hurling league (division 1 B) Éire Óg were relegated and will play in division 2 next season. A quick glance at that stat might suggest that their chances of success in the championship are slim but, in fairness to the Ennis club it must be stressed that of all the clubs in the county they were most severely hampered for the league because of the absence of so many key players due to their involvement with Clare teams. Shane O’Donnell, David Reidy, Aaron Fitzgerald, Darren O’Brien were part of the Clare senior hurling squad while Ciaran Russell and Gavin Cooney were with the senior football panel along with MANAGEMENT: Matt Shannon (manager); Gerry O’Connor, Ronan Cooney, Barry Nugent CAPTAIN: Liam Corry KEY PLAYER: Shane O’Donnell ONE TO WATCH: Oran Cahill FRESH BLOOD: Cian O’Dea, Michael Heneghan DEPARTURES GATE: N/A TITLES WON: 6. Prior to the formation of Eire Og titles were won by Faugha,

Kilfenora’s Cian O’Dea who, earlier this year, received clearance to assist Éire Óg’s hurlers this season. The availability of those seven alone will strengthen the squad in a huge way and will give their supporters every reason to be confident that their favourites can progress further than the semi-final where their season ended last year, going down to Inagh/Kilnamona. They also reached the semi-final a year earlier where they lost out narrowly to Sixmilebridge. It’s now thirty two years since Éire Óg last captured the Canon Hamilton trophy and all involved with the club are keen to end that wait. Matt Shannon, a native of nearby Corofin, is in charge for a fourth season and his selection committee of Gerry O’Connor, Ronan Cooney and Barry Nugent is unchanged from 2021. Twelve months ago Shane O’Donnell was dogged with injury concerns but during the recent inter county season he was back to his brilliant best and on that form he will post serious problems for all opponents. Coping with a high number of dual players may be taxing but Ennis, Ennis Dals and Ennis/ Clarecastle LAST SEASON’S RUN: Finished second in group and went on to reach semi-final where they lost out to InaghKilnamona SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Kilmaley Round 2 v Scariff Round 3 v Clooney/Quin

throughout last year’s campaign the respective managers, Matt Shannon and Paul Madden worked well together. Eire Og will go into the football championship in two weeks time as defending champions so another busy and long campaign is likely. Being without so many key players in the league didn’t help results wise but it did give the management an opportunity to give game time to quite a number of up and coming players which is sure to prove beneficial going forward. Over the years there has been a keen rivalry between themselves and neighbours Kilmaley. No doubt the town outfit would love to come out on top in this one particularly in view of the fact that Kilmaley go into the game as league champions following their Clare Cup success.

Shane O’Donnell Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

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GROUP 3

21-07-22

CLOONEY/QUIN Clooney/Quin are more than capable SEAMUS HAYES

INALISTS two years ago, Clooney/Quin will face into the 2022 competition with a much changed set up. Almost half of the team which played in that final are no longer in the squad while there is a new team management this year. Furthermore, a number of players will miss the early part of the campaign due to injury. “We are in transition”, newly appointed manager Tommy Corbett told the Clare Echo. The former Éire Óg player who represented Clare in a number of grades is well placed to comment on the young talent available to his adopted club where he has been chairman of their underage section in recent years. “We have a good blend of youth and experience and we are looking forward to the championship”, he said this week before pointing out that their meeting with Scariff in the opening round “is a big game for us. They are in their second year

back up in the top grouping, they have a good blend of youth and experience with a number of up and coming players available”. Amongst the players not part of the Clooney/Quin championship panel are Cillian and Martin Duggan and Conor Harrisson while Ruaidhrí McNamara is another absentee as he is in Australia Brothers Michael and Jimmy Corry will both miss the early stages of the competition due to injury while Brian McInerney is doubtful. That said in Ryan Taylor and Peter Duggan they have two players that shone for Clare in this season’s Munster senior championship and they will be looking to these to led their charge According to Corbett, “the next four or five years are crucial for Clooney/Quin. There are a number of good teams coming through. We have had success at Féile and under 15 levels and we have also done well at minor level in recent times”. They provided a number of players to the county minor side this year and while they are not eligible for adult club hurling until next year, club officials can look to the future with confidence.

MANAGEMENT: Tommy Corbett (manager); Barry Corbett (coach), Tony McMahon (selector), Ronan McMahon (selector), Brian McAllister (selector); Victor O’Riordan (S&C); Rory Nash (kitman) Kathleen Doyle (physio) CAPTAIN: Not named yet KEY PLAYER: Ryan Taylor ONE TO WATCH: John Conneally FRESH BLOOD: Evan Maxted, Callum Hassett; DEPARTURE GATE: Cillian Duggan, Conor Harrisson, Martin Duggan, Ruaidhrí McNamara; TITLES WON: None (Clooney won the championship in 1942) LAST SEASON’S RUN: Finished bottom in the group before two wins from three saw them avoid relegation SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Scariff Round 2 v Kilmaley Round 3 v Éire Óg

SCARIFF

Scariff psyched to fire on all cylinders from the get-go Conor McNamara is back for another campaign with the Scariff hurlers

Photo by Ruth Griffin

SEAMUS HAYES

A MANAGEMENT: Mark McKenna (manager); Joe O’Leary (coach) Mike Long, Michael Moroney, Jim Minogue (Stats), Michelle McNamara and Adrian Whelan (Physios) CAPTAIN: Mark Rodgers

KEY PLAYER: Daniel Treacy ONE TO WATCH: Keelan Hartigan FRESH BLOOD: Eoin O’Grady DEPARTURE GATE: all of last year’s panel are involved TITLES WON: 5 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Lost out on a knockout place

on score difference to Wolfe Tones for second spot in the group. Lost to eventual winners Clonlara in senior B SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Clooney/ Quin Round 2 v Éire Óg Round 3 v Kilmaley

STRONG senior hurling club back in the forties and fifties, dwindling numbers contributed to Scariff losing their senior status but the reigning intermediate champions are viewed as a side that will have a big say in the 2021 campaign. It took Scariff six years to regain senior status, their determination to stay in the top tier is palpable while their attack which includes Mark Rodgers and Patrick Ryan plus lively shooters such as Shane Kavanagh and Keelan Hartigan will ask questions of defences. “It’s a big step up but it’s where we want to be. It took us six years to get back up there and we want

to stay there but we are under no illusions as to the quality of the competition which is higher”, Scariff manager Mark McKenna outlined. Like many of his fellow managers across the county, McKenna is adamant that Scariff “are not looking past the first round. It’s a huge match for the club. Get a result at the weekend and it will be huge for the club”, McKenna when speaking said of their game against Wolfe Tones on Saturday. For team coach Johnny Markham, its sure to be an interesting fixture. A Wolfe Tones clubman, Markham has played for and managed various teams at the Shannon club. Manager McKenna admits that Scariff have had “a good league (Division 2) which we won. This has helped our preparation, you cant beat winning. In the current climate it was great to be able to play matches and this has certainly continued the progress of our team”.

Padraig Brody and Tomas McNamara are long term injuries and will not be part of the Scariff squad in the coming weeks. Conor McNamara is unlikely to be available for Saturday’s game because of an ankle injury he picked up early in the league. Winning last year’s intermediate title was a huge lift for the East Clare club, McKenna noted. Winning the Division 2 League against the same opposition, Tubber has helped with preparations also. “Of course we want to hold our senior status and there will be pressure to achieve that. In our group we have the county champions and two other clubs that have won the Canon Hamilton title since our club last contested a final. The other three teams in the group have all won Munster club honours while Sixmilebridge have brought home the All-Ireland title. We know that we are facing a huge challenge,” McKenna commented.

GROUP 3

KILMALEY

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Kilmaley’s Cup form must translate to championship to strengthen their title bid SEAMUS HAYES

RESH from winning the Clare Cup title, Kilmaley who have only lost one competitive game so far this year have strengthened the argument for those who view them as championship contenders. Kilmaley face into the 2022 Clare SHC without a number of players who were part of their panel last year when they lost out at the quarter final stage to the eventual winners Ballyea. Eoin Enright, Eamonn Bracken, Kenneth Kennedy, Shane Darcy and James McGuire will miss this year’s campaign due to travel, retirement and injuries. In addition Tom O’Rourke, Aidan Griffey and Cathal Darcy will miss the early stages of the campaign as they are currently in the US on J1 visas. “We have been without a good few of last year’s panel in the recent cup campaign and that gave us an opportunity to try out players. While it was good to win that competition, we will be judged on the championship. Winning the cup doesn’t entitle us to anything”, manager Conor Clancy said this week. Reflecting on last year he said “we were unlucky last year. We were in a group of five and we ended up with injuries to key players which included losing our two freetakers in the Clonlara game. We lost two key players, Cathal Darcy and Aaron Moloney to cruciate injuries. Like everybody else, out aim is to get as far as possible. It’s a very even championship with little between most of the teams”.

MANAGEMENT: Conor Clancy (manager) Colin Lynch (coach), Martin Meehan (selector), Martin Enright (selector), Kieran Murphy (selector); Trevor Slattery (S&C); Dermot Maher (goalkeeping coach), Eanna Murphy (stats), Eva Moynan (Physio). CAPTAIN: Mikey O’Neill KEY PLAYER: Conor Cleary ONE TO WATCH: Tommy Barry FRESH BLOOD: Brian McNamara;

Clare’s All-Ireland winning full forward from 1995 and 1997 feels that “Éire Óg will probably be favourites as they have been very close for the last two years. When all their inter county hurlers and footballers are available they will be difficult to beat. Physically they are very strong and they are one of the form teams so we will have our work cut out”. Clancy is happy that there is “certainty around the fixtures and it was good to get the Cup played off before the championship. It would be better to have all groups of four and, going forward, we need to get the championship to sixteen teams so that all clubs would be on the same level in terms of the number of games. The extra games can have an impact if there are injuries. We will have a game less this year and that can be an advantage if we can get out of the group”. As they put the final touches to preparations for their clash with Éire Óg, there are doubts about the fitness of Michael O’Malley and Daire Keane. O’Malley hobbled off midway through the first half of the cup final against Clonlara with an ankle injury and it will be close to match time before a final decision is made on whether or not he will be able to play a part. Daire Keane missed the closing stages of the league cup but he did play the closing minutes of the final and all involved in the club are hoping that he will be able to line out against Éire Óg. Brian Cahill will be a vital player in the middle third for Kilmaley Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Departure Gate: Eoin Enright, Eamonn Bracken, Kenneth Kennedy, Shane Darcy; James McGuire, Tom O’Rourke, Aidan Griffey, Cathal Darcy TITLES WON: 2 Last season’s run: Finished second in their group before losing quarter final to Ballyea by minimum margin SCHEDULE: Round 1 v Éire Óg; Round 2 v Clooney/Quin Round 3 v Scariff

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WOLFE TONES

GROUP 4

Setting the right Tones from the outset

MANAGEMENT: Ray Divin-

EOIN BRENNAN

HE PHRASE ‘a good start is half the battle’ could have been written with Wolfe Tones in mind as the last two seasons, their sole championship saving victories have come in the opening round of the championship. With the 2020 campaign ultimately didn’t have any threat of relegation, a rousing round victory over Clarecastle certainly allowed the Shannon side to look upwards for the remainder of the campaign while a gritty opening display against Scariff last summer proved pivotal in an inch-tight group. With the Tones, Scariff and Clarecastle finishing level on points, scoring difference would catapult Ray Diviney’s side into the last eight against neighbours Newmarket whereas the Magpies were thrown to the lions of the relegation process. With two teams to fall for definite in 2023, Wolfe Tones best hope of avoiding any brush with danger is to complete a first round hat-trick against the latest intermediate champions Smith O’Brien’s. “Beating Clarecastle and Scariff was a good fillip for us at the start of the last two championships because we had a lot of young players coming through and those wins helped us gain momentum and a bit of confidence in the group,” admitted Diviney. “So again we’ll hope for a good start, the lads are training hard so hopefully we can get a bit of luck on the day to get over the line. It’s a massive game for both teams. We wouldn’t necessarily fear Smith O’Brien’s and they wouldn’t fear us either I’d imagine so it’s all about digging out that result and getting off to the best possible start. Backed by the return of their three county seniors Rory Hayes, Darragh Lohan and Aron Shanagher to add to captain Aaron Cunningham, Diviney and Co. are prepared to have to battle in all three group contests against the intermediate champions, Crusheen and seeded side Inagh-Kilnamona. “I think the group is fairly evenly-balanced. Probably Inagh/Kilnamona and Crusheen have more experience in their team player-wise but going into the championship all four will feel that they can get out of the group. “It should be tight in all the group matches because Smith O’Brien’s are coming up from intermediate on a high, Inagh/Kilnamona reached last year’s final and Crusheen are rebuilding so everyone’s in with a fighting chance I think.”

ey (Manager); Alan Cunningham, Paul O’Shea, Paul Hogan; Fearghal Lawlor (S&C); Greg Keane (Kitman); Aoife Hogan (Physio) CAPTAIN: Aaron Cunningham KEY PLAYER: Rory Hayes ONE TO WATCH: Billy Connors FRESH BLOOD: Gavin Carrig, Billy Connors, Sam Meaney, Peter McEvoy DEPARTURES GATE: Barry Loughnane TITLES WON: 2 MOST RECENT TITLE: 2006 LAST SEASON’S RUN: For the second successive season began the championship in winning fashion, something which saved them as despite back-toback defeats, the Tones still managed to squeeze through to the last eight on score difference. Daithí Lohan is tipped to have a big year for The Tones

Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

GROUP 4

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INAGH/KILNAMONA

A new championship brush sweeps clean for Inamona EOIN BRENNAN

voiding the hangover of how their first county senior decider panned out will be essential to Inagh-Kilnamona’s development for 2022. In a whirlwind campaign that saw them rise above any expected dogfight in a group of death, Eugene Cullinan’s side appeared to have matured at the perfect time but ultimately came unstuck in the final quarter of the final as a more experienced Ballyea fired five of the last seven points to prevail by the minimum. It was a gut-wrenching blow that has been put firmly in the history books according to manager Cullinan who feels that Inagh-Kilnamona, following a underwhelming Clare Cup campaign, have to get back to basics for their opening tie against a scorned Crusheen in a fortnight’s time. “To be honest, we’re just totally focused on the first game against Crusheen and that’s it. We’re looking no further than that because as far as I’m concerned, it’s a 50-50 game. Regardless of what happened last year for us or them, Crusheen still have good and experienced players and they’d die with their boots on so we need to develop consistency in our play

and the first step to achieving that is solely focusing on Crusheen”. The focus from the outside as it has been all season for Clare as well has been Aidan McCarthy’s long recovery process from a freak leg injury sustained at work. The 2021 National Young Player of the Year nominee did manage to finally make his comeback in Inagh-Kilnamona’s final Clare Cup outing against Cratloe but didn’t subsequently make Clare’s 26 man panel for the All-Ireland Semi-Final. Inagh-Kilnamona will need their talisman back in full swing for a group that is largely a step into the unknown as aside from regular bouts against Crusheen in league and championship, Smith O’Brien’s and Wolfe Tones pose a very different threat. “Smith O’Brien’s had two involved with the county senior setup as well so they’ll find another big improvement then their lads come back in so I expect them to have a bounce from winning the intermediate. “Wolfe Tones too have three county lads and influential ones too as Rory Hayes had a great year, Aron Shanagher is a daunting prospect for any club while Darragh Lohan made his championship debut this year. “However, as I’ve said, our sole focus is on Crusheen for the next few weeks and after last year, we will be expecting a big backlash from them.”

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Inagh/Kilnamona’s Jason McCarthy will once again be a central player for them Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

MANAGEMENT: Eugene Cullinan (Manager), Tomás Kelly, Val Murnane (Coaches), Alan Griffin, Noel Hehir (Selectors), Steve Cusack (S&C) JOINT-CAPTAINS: David Fitzgerald KEY PLAYER: Aidan McCarthy ONE TO WATCH: Sean Rynne FRESH BLOOD: James Cullinan, Sean Rynne, Shane Woods, Ricky Wynne DEPARTURES GATE: Cian McInerney (Injured/Travelling) TITLES WON: 3 (as Kilnamona MOST RECENT TITLE: 1908 LAST SEASON’S RUN: Finally went from dark horse to a thoroughbred as Inagh-Kilnamona passed every test in a group of death before going on to reach their first ever senior decider albeit that Ballyea’s experience pipped them as the post

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GROUP 4

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CRUSHEEN Rebuilding confidence key to getting Crusheen back on track EOIN BRENNAN

aving experienced the heartbreak and deflation of being relegated before an eleventh hour provincial reprieve, if there ever was a kick in Crusheen, it has to come in the next two months. From the high of bringing Na Piarsaigh to a Munster Senior Club Championship replay to relegation to intermediate in just over a decade just seemed unthinkable and therefore they will be determined to never have any dalliance with danger ever again. That inevitable backlash was already evident in the Clare Cup, a ploy which the group targeted ac-

cording to manager Kevin Sheehan. “We went back a couple of weeks earlier than most clubs. While we didn’t kill them, they definitely got the structures in place early and to be fair, we probably we a step ahead in most games early on in the Clare Cup. Getting points on the board early was something we were anxious to do as a group and once the confidence started coming, we were competitive once we got enough on the field”. Having not won a regular championship match since 2019, Crusheen couldn’t have asked for a tougher start than facing last year’s finalists Inagh/Kilnamona. “It is a big, big test, there’s no doubt about it. They’re one of the teams right at the top of the ladder with serious aspirations of winning it out but at the same time, I felt

that last year we got a little caught up early on with what was in front of us as opposed to the strength of our own pack. “So while we’re acutely aware of exactly what Inagh/Kilnamona have, at the same time our focus all year has been on developing ourselves so we’ll get as much right as we can ourselves and then hope that that’s enough to be in the game coming down the final straight to have a say”. So with Ross Hayes, John Brigdale and Sean Mhaoir fronting their casualty list, what about Crusheen’s other group rivals? “Wolfe Tones have three county men so that’s a problem for us straight away as some of our countrymen have been away from that scene for a couple of years whereas some of the younger inter-county prospects are arguably still a bit too young so Wolfe

Tones will be a big, big test for us “Equally, Smith O’Brien’s, having come out of a hugely competitive division, the intermediate champions normally have a decent say in reaching a senior quarter-final. “So we’re aware that we’re going from the frying pan into the fire as this group develops but luckily enough, Inagh/Kilnamona are too big a test to even think about anything past them.”

MANAGEMENT: Kevin Sheehan (Manager); Aidan Harte (Coach); Stephen Cunningham, Diarmaid O’Doherty (Selectors); Pa McEvoy (S&C) CAPTAIN: Cian Dillon KEY PLAYER: Ross Hayes ONE TO WATCH: Oisin O’Donnell FRESH BLOOD: Glenn O’Sullivan, Mark O’Sullivan DEPARTURES GATE: Ciaran O’Doherty TITLES WON: 2 MOST RECENT TITLE: 2011 LAST SEASON’S RUN: There had been slippage in recent seasons but no-one could have foreseen that Crusheen would spiral through the relegation trapdoor before being relievedly granted amnesty to remain in the senior ranks.

SMITH O’BRIENS Intermediate bounce key to settling in senior EOIN BRENNAN

T’S eleven years since the last intermediate champion fell straight back down from senior and it’s that bounce of momentum that Tony Gleeson is hoping can fuel Smith O’Brien’s first taste of top flight championship action in nine years. “There are only a handful of lads that have played senior before so

for the new lads to senior, it’s going to require a major lift in intensity. It will definitely be a rude awakening in the first ten or 15 minutes of their first game of the sheer intensity of senior championship hurling. We’ve obviously played senior teams in the Clare Cup but it’s a completely different story when it comes to championship fare. “The attitude has been brilliant though. The lads were mad for road from the start of the year and initially I wondered did I bring them back too early but less than two months after that Munster

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Quarter-Final, they were eager to go again because they knew that there was a lot of work to do before they were ready for the first round of a senior championship. “We targeted specific games in the Clare Cup and it was the first year that we were down Mikey Gough and Cian Nolan for practically the entire Clare Cup so it was good to see the lads were well able to hold their own even without the two lads.” Tipperary native Gleeson is quietly confident that Smith O’Brien’s have progressed sufficiently to be

able to cope with anything that this group can throw at them. However, injuries worries regarding county senior Mikey Gough (ankle), John Cusack (groin), Cathal Stritch (knee) allied to their new surroundings just makes their initial start against Wolfe Tones that bit more anxious. “Inagh-Kilnamona are the team on everyone’s lips as they performed so well last year and have a constant conveyor belt of talent so they are probably the one team in the group that the others will fear a bit. But we’ll all have a lash at each

other and it could well come down to injuries or a bit of luck to decide things in this group. “I just want the first quarter to go right for them because Wolfe Tones have been up a good few years so they obviously know what to expect. It will be interesting to see how it goes and hopefully our inexperience at senior level won’t count against us. But once they’re in the game and battling hard, they’ll be fine.”

MANAGEMENT: Alex Simpson (Manager); Tony Gleeson, Aaron Devane (Coaches); Brendan Foley (Selector); Danielle McInerney, Nicole Foley (Stats); Alex Lawlor (Physio) JOINT-CAPTAIN: David Gough, Cian Nolan KEY PLAYER: Cian Nolan ONE TO WATCH: Eddie Bourke FRESH BLOOD: Shane Geraghty, Ben Murnane DEPARTURES GATE: None TITLES WON: 1 MOST RECENT TITLE: 1887 LAST SEASON’S RUN: They weren’t amongst the clear favourites but emerged as a powerful force to blitz chief rivals Tulla and St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield on their way to senior for the first time since 2013.

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THE RUNNERS AND RIDERS IN THE CLARE INTERMEDIATE HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM PROFILES GROUP 1: ST JOSEPH’S DOORA/ BAREFIELD

MANAGEMENT: Michael Guilfoyle (manager), Oisin O’Brien (coach), Aaron Landy (selector) CAPTAIN: Tom Hannan KEY PLAYER: David Conroy ONE TO WATCH: Darragh McMahon FRESH BLOOD: Darragh McMahon, Senan Crosbie, Cian Lahiffe, Matthew Power, Evan Craven DEPARTURES GATE: Aaron Landy (injury), Cathal Ruane (J1), Darragh O’Shea (J1), Joey Keane, Seanie Keane COMMENT: “Our aim for this year is to get a step further than we did last year. This year is a chance for us to get promoted without having to play some of the guys put down with two teams to be relegated from the senior. The Mills have been quite good this year, they got to a League final and have had a number of players regraded, I don’t know much about Killanena to be honest, we’ve Tubber in the fourth round and that will be a huge game, Newmarket-on-Fergus will be our last match and we’ll see how we go.” – Michael Guilfoyle

TUBBER

MANAGEMENT: Ivan Conway (manager), Mike Finn, John Clancy, Eoin Ruane, Declan Ryan CAPTAIN: TBC KEY PLAYER: Clive Earley ONE TO WATCH: Domhnall McMahon FRESH BLOOD: Senan Dunford, Liam Clancy, Tommy Fahy, Bryan Clancy DEPARTURES GATE: N/A COMMENT: “All the games will be challenging without a shadow of doubt but everyone is contention, you need to be on the top of your game every day in the Clare intermediate hurling championship. We’re hoping to have Patrick O’Connor play some bit at some stage in the championship, he has worked very hard to get back in some form of contention. For us 2022 is no different to any other year, it’s about getting up to the senior hurling championship, it doesn’t matter who is going up or down, we’re not caught up with everyone else.” – Ivan Conway

KILLANENA

MANAGEMENT: Martin Smyth (manager), Noel McNamara (selector) CAPTAIN: Jason Keehan KEY PLAYER: Ian McNamara ONE TO WATCH: Jason Keehan FRESH BLOOD: Rory McNamara, Christopher Moloney DEPARTURES GATE: Sean Glynn (emigration), Cathal Noonan (ACL), Mark Flaherty (injury) COMMENT: “The ambition is to get to the quarter-final, after that it will be a bonus. Without the injured lads it is going to be a struggle, them three players were big players for us”. – Martin Smyth

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS

MANAGEMENT: Neil Ryan (manager), Bob Enright, Donagh Keogh, Cathal ‘Malachy’

Noonan CAPTAIN: James Liddy KEY PLAYER: Shane Lynch ONE TO WATCH: Cian Foley FRESH BLOOD: Jason O’Neill, Josh Ryan, Gearoid McMahon, Dylan Crowe, David Frost, Oisin McInerney, Ronan Good, Adam Enright, Conor McCarthy, Brian Molloy DEPARTURES GATE: Padraic Guilfoyle, Colm McCaul, COMMENT: “We’ve a tough group with three first teams in it, our main goal is to be competitive in each game and with a bit of luck we might make the knockout stages and go from there”. – Neil Ryan

O’CALLAGHAN’S MILLS

MANAGEMENT: Fergus Donovan (joint manager), Kevin Sammon (joint manager), Ollie Nash (selector), Paul Heffernan (selector) CAPTAIN: Barry Heffernan KEY PLAYER: Adrian Donovan ONE TO WATCH: Darragh Moroney FRESH BLOOD: Conor Cooney, Mike McGrath, MacCauley Murtagh, Darragh Moroney, Niall Donovan (will be gone). DEPARTURES GATE: Fionn Hickey (gone to senior), COMMENT: “The immediate aim is to retain our status, it would be fantastic to make the quarter-finals in our second year intermediate. It is the most difficult group with Tubber and St Josephs Doora/Barefield who are the two favourites to be in the final, we also have Killanena and Newmarket-on-Fergus who will be very difficult teams, they’ve shown their form in the League and it’s Newmarket’s eleventh year at intermediate. We’re looking forward to it, it’s a great place to be”. – Fergus Donovan

GROUP 2: RUAN

MANAGEMENT: Niall O’Connor (manager), Cyril Lyons (coach), John Punch (coach), Alan Bell (GK coach/selector), Mattie McDonagh (selector), Kieran Connelly (physio) CAPTAIN: TBC KEY PLAYER: Robin Mounsey ONE TO WATCH: Darragh McInerney FRESH BLOOD: N/A DEPARTURES GATE: Conall Ó hÁiniféin (ACL injury) COMMENT: “We want to get back to where we got last year and possibly go further. We’ve a very young side, our finishing team in last year’s semi-final had ten lads under twenty, they’re a confident bunch with massive belief in themselves”. – Niall O’Connor

SIXMILEBRIDGE

MANAGEMENT: Jamesy Hassett, Tadhg Keogh, John O’Meara and Pat Keane CAPTAIN: TBC KEY PLAYER: Tiarnan Agnew ONE TO WATCH: David Kennedy FRESH BLOOD: David Kennedy, Colm Flynn, Noel Casey, Seamus O’Connell, Luke O’Halloran DEPARTURES GATE: N/A COMMENT: “It’s a really rough tough group to be, with Parteen, Ruan and Corofin you’ve three potential teams that could a long way in

the championships. Ourselves and Clonlara are the only second teams in the group, the others are their club’s first team and it’s going to be very difficult. Please God, we’ll do enough to get out of the group”. – Jamesy Hassett

PARTEEN

MANAGEMENT: Denis Barry (manager), Benny McEvoy, Roddy McDermott, Paul Harmon (S&C) JOINT CAPTAIN: Alan Murnane & Phil Lavin KEY PLAYER: Jack Kirwan ONE TO WATCH: Darragh McDermott FRESH BLOOD: Damien Moloney, DEPARTURES GATE: Bridgeman, McCarthy, COMMENT: We’ve worked, hard, we’d be hopeful to be competitive in the group and we’re hopeful of getting out of it, it is very tough. We’ve a super bunch and we’re enjoying working with them”. – Denis Barry

CLONLARA

MANAGEMENT: John Moloney (manager), Neil Ryan, Wayne Kennedy, Paul Barry, Diarmuid Gully, Pat O’Hare, Eoin Meehan. CAPTAIN: Sean Moriarity KEY PLAYER: Bryan McLeish ONE TO WATCH: Thomas Begley FRESH BLOOD: Ken Savage, James McCormack, Stephen Cullen, Cian Begley, DEPARTURES GATE: Michael White, Cillian Fennessy, Michael Clancy, Micheál Stritch, Séimí Gully COMMENT: “We’ll be turning up every day and working hard every day, we’ll trust each other and back each other, that’s all we can do”. – John Moloney

COROFIN

MANAGEMENT: Michael O’Dell (manager), Aaron Considine, Darragh Moloney, Sean O’Loughlin, Luke O’Loughlin CAPTAIN: Mikey Kelly KEY PLAYER: Diarmuid Cahill ONE TO WATCH: Marc O’Loughlin FRESH BLOOD: Jamie aMalone, Conor Leen DEPARTURES GATE: Cian O’Dea COMMENT: “To win the first round is our first main objective and get out of the group. We’re starting off with a local derby, they are beaten county sei-finalists so I think they will be favourites, if we play to the best of our ability then I think we would have a good chance”. – Michael O’Dell

GROUP 3: TULLA

MANAGEMENT: Jim McInerney (manager), Chris Withycombe, Tim Hunt, Michael Cummins (coach). CAPTAIN: Paul Lynch KEY PLAYER: David McInerney ONE TO WATCH: Sean Withycombe FRESH BLOOD: Tony Leyden, Dara Ryan, Fionn Ryan DEPARTURES GATE: N/A COMMENT: “We’d be hoping to get out of the group and get to the final and win it, it’s two years since we were relegated, we were beaten in the semi-final last year by Smith O’Briens who went on to win it. With the two teams coming down from senior at the end of

this year, it’s going to be harder to win it next year so we’ve to make the most of the chance. There’s two serious East Clare derbies in our group and we’re facing Inagh/ Kilnamona’s second team, they will be no pushover, they have a lot of good hurlers. All that said I’d be hoping we’d be strong enough to come out of it”. – Jim McInerney.

OGONNELLO

MANAGEMENT: Michael Sheedy (manager), Martin Conlon (coach), Johnny McMahon, Billy Cunnane CAPTAIN: Daniel Cunnane KEY PLAYER: Colm Quinn ONE TO WATCH: Gearoid Sheedy FRESH BLOOD: Ethan Harrington, Donnacha McNulty, Finn Harold DEPARTURES GATE: Liam Harte, Colin Harte COMMENT: “Being in the group of four is not overly significant, we’ve to go and perform to get out of the group. The group of four gives us a few extra weeks to prepare. There’s Tulla who are the favourites and the local derby between ourselves and Bodyke which most of East Clare will be looking forward. It took a couple of matches for us to find our feet in the league, once we got going we had a good run and were unlucky not to get promotion, we had time to develop our panel, we got more than we bargained in for the league”. - Michael Sheedy.

INAGH/KILNAMONA

MANAGEMENT: Paul McInerney, Pat Barry, Flan Barry CAPTAIN: TBC KEY PLAYER: Paul O’Looney ONE TO WATCH: Ronan Mescall FRESH BLOOD: Ricky Wynne, Sean Rynne, Shane Woods, James Cullinan, DEPARTURES GATE: N/A COMMENT: “If we don’t lose too many to the senior squad, we’re in with a good shout. I’ve been with them two or three years now and it’s a challenge every year. We won’t know who can we field until 20 hours before throw-in, if we can hold onto our current players, I’d be hopeful we can qualify from the group”.

BODYKE

MANAGEMENT: Sean Doyle (manager), Patsy O’Donnell, George Waterstone, Martin O’Connor CAPTAIN: Sean Wiley KEY PLAYER: Seanie Doyle ONE TO WATCH: Jamie Howard FRESH BLOOD: Sean Cooney, Jamie Howard, Thomas Wiley DEPARTURES GATE: Cian Minogue, Fionn Slattery, Kevin Drost, Cathal Doyle, Jack Minogue (all injured) COMMENT: “We’ve a young team, we’ll probably be fielding ten minors from the last two years, we’ll be up against it. As we showed in the League Final against an experienced O’Callaghans Mills, we can be down to the bare bones but still play really well. Youth gets you through a lot but there can also be naiveite. It’s a tough group, Inagh/Kilnamona are very strong with a large selection of players, Ogonnelloe came very close to promotion and Tulla will be trying to retain their senior status”. – Sean Doyle.

NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 21 2022

Clare is Amazing,