The Clare Echo 22/09/22

Stage set Dromolandat

CLARE

IS gearing up for a major sporting event to commence as The KPMG Women’s Irish Open tees off.

More than 25,000 spectators are expected to attend the first Women’s Irish Open since 2012 and it will be held on Dromoland Castle’s eighteen hole championship course.

Ennis native Aideen Walsh will fly the Clare flag while Leona Maguire, one of the top female golfers on the planet, is ranked as the favourite to claim the silverware.

RTÉ and Sky Sports will broadcast live from itontheconclusionfouron-FergusNewmarket-forthedayevent.BytheofactionSunday,isexpected

that organisers will announce Dromoland Castle and Country Club as the venue for the Women’s Irish Open for 2023. The Clare Echo understands that it is also in line to host the tournament in 2024.

A history of excelling when it comes to hosting golf tournaments has been evident in the county, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling said in reference to the 2019 Irish Open in Lahinch. “We’re good at hosting golf tournaments as we’ve shown in Lahinch. We’ve worked with Dromoland to host the event representative,Newmarket-on-Fergussuccessfully”.CllrPatMcMahon(FF)labelledthetournamentas“amomentousoccasion”.Hecommented,“Iamhopefulsurroundingvillagesandthecountywillbenefitinhugeway”.

l The Aga Khan trophy in Tuamgraney where Michael Blake received a hero’s welcome Photo by Ruth Griffin

Cusack’s birth is celebrated

THE 175th anniversary of the birth of Michael Cusack was held on Saturday at the Mi chael Cusack Centre in Car ron, the County Clare home of the founder of the GAA.

Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Larry McCarthy joined Leas Cathao irleach of Clare County Council Cllr Ann Norton (IND), GAA, Clare Camogie and Clare LGFA representatives, LCETB, Clare County Council, Fáilte Ireland and the lo cal community in the Burren for the first in a series of Cusack 175 events.

A memorial plaque was unveiled by the GAA President who also planted an ash tree in Cusack’s honour outside the cottage in which he is born and has since been de veloped into a popular visitor attraction.

On Tuesday, 175 years on from the day Cusack was born, the GAA President laid a wreath at Cusack’s grave in Glasnevin Cemetery, while members of Clare GAA and representatives of the Michael Cusack Centre placed a wreath at the foot of Cu sack’s statue outside Cusack Park in Ennis.

Born the September 20, 1847, Cusack’s love for education, Irish culture and sport led to the foundation of what is today the world’s largest amateur sporting organi sation. The GAA he helped to establish in 1884 has since developed a presence in ev ery community in Ireland and worldwide.

Uachtarán CLG Larry McCarthy said, “The GAA today is an integral part of Irish life, deeply rooted in communities through more than 1,600 clubs in Ireland and more than 450 clubs around the globe. It is a last

ing legacy and tribute to the work of Mi chael Cusack and the passion and energy which he brought to the formation of the GAA.Dónal Ó hAiniféin, Chair of the Board of Michael Cusack Centre, said, “We are in viting anybody, of every GAA persuasion, to come to visit. It is a bit like connecting ‘where we all belong’ to ‘where it all be gan’. Carron is the fabled story of where the GAA began. Though born during the

Great Famine and reared in poverty, Cu sack drew on the inspiration of the Burren landscape for his vision of life. The rele vance of Cusack’s work in the area of Irish culture and our native language is still be ing passed through the generations. Sto ries continue to be told and that is one of the main themes during the festivities held in Carron today,” added Mr. Ó hAiniféin.

Guided tours of the Michael Cusack Centre are available each day from 10am.

l LOVELY HURLING: Uachtarán Chumann Lúthchleas Gael Larry McCarthy is joinedwith (left) Dónal Ó hAiniféin, Brother Seán McNamara (95 years old), Cllr. Ann Norton and Tim Madden, Michael Cusack Centre

Photo by Eamon Ward

Bail refused to man charged with ‘hatchet assault’ in Kilkee

Weapons Act on the same date.

Gardai opposed the bail application and during the course of the bail application, Garda Jack Cagney stated that it will be al leged that at St Patrick’s Terrace, Kilkee on June 1st 2019, Mr Donegan struck the al leged victim on the left hand side of head and body with a hatchet.

Ajudge

has refused bail to a man charged with committing an ‘unprovoked’ hatchet assault on “a vulnerable man with special needs” in the west Clare resort town of Kilkee two years ago.

At Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Judge Mary Larkin refused bail to Andre Do negan (30) who is charged with the assault causing harm on a Limerick native at St Pat rick’s Terrace, Kilkee on June 1st 2019.

In court, solicitor, John Casey was making a bail application on behalf of Mr Donegan after telling the court last week that Mr Do negan is to enter a guilty plea in the case.

Mr Donegan is currently on remand in custody pending the case going before Ennis Circuit Court after Judge Larkin last week declined jurisdiction in the case after hearing an outline of the facts.

Mr Donegan of Smith Gardens, Kilkee is also charged with producing a hatchet during the course of a dispute being a weapon ca pable of inflicting serious injury contrary to Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive

Sgt Aiden Lonergan has stated that the hatchet blow “was a glance down the side of the head as opposed to straight down the middle of the head”.

Garda Cagney stated that the alleged vic tim was brought by ambulance to Univer sity Hospital Limerick for his head injury.

Garda Cagney stated that the injured par ty is originally from Limerick but has been living and working in Kilkee for the past 18 months. Garda Cagney told the court that the injured party was interviewed by Garda specialist interviewers due to certain neu ro-disabilities.TheGardastated that the alleged victim will allege that the alleged assault was “unpro voked” and related to a dispute Mr Donegan had with a brother of the alleged victim. Gar da Cagney said that the alleged victim had known Mr Donegan for a number of years prior to the alleged assault. The Garda said that the alleged victim “is a vulnerable man with special needs”.

Garda Cagney stated that he had concerns that Mr Donegan was granted bail, he would be a flight risk. He said: “This is based on the fact that Mr Donegan was co-operating with me during the investigation, but when I made him aware of the DPP directions to charge, he failed to show and left the jurisdic tion and stayed in UK for one year in order to avoidGardaprosecution.”Cagneytold the court that he would not have any comfort in any condition that would be imposed on Mr Donegan if he was

was to receive bail.

Scariff Bay resumes FM transmissions cian@clareecho.ie

After hearing an outline of the Garda ob jections and submissions made by Mr Casey, Judge Larkin said: “I don’t like doing this but I am going to refuse bail.”

Mr Donegan was appearing via video link from prison and Judge Larkin further re manded him in custody to September 28.

Mr Casey asked that the matter be expedit ed as his client is in custody and Judge Larkin when people are in custody, the State has to up its game in such cases.

SCARIFF Bay Radio has re turned to the FM airwaves after the Broadcasting Au thority of Ireland (BAI) re newed their licence for the next 50 weekends, writes Páraic McMahon

An imminent restructur ing of the BAI has delayed the processing of Scariff Bay’s application for a ten year li cence, something which oth er community radio stations

across the country have also experienced.Priortotheir return to FM, Scariff Bay had been broadcasting online only. FM transmissions had to be paused as part of the licence bid.Up to 70 volunteers are in volved with the radio station which broadcasts on 88.3FM and 92.7FM. Across East Clare this weekend, Scar

iff Bay Community Radio will be holding their annual church gate collection.

Leo Doyle, Pat McNamara, Marie McNamara, Patricia Nugent, Tom Hanley, Ger aldine Colleran, Pat O’Brien and Pat Hickey are among the presenters and regular contributors heard on Scariff Bay. Former school princi pal, Jim Collins is the station manager.

l BIODIVERSITY IN FULL FLOW: Catherine Ni Ciardha, land owner, with Pippa Hackett Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity in the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine; and Ecologist Barry O’Loughlin, Project Lead cutting the ribbon at the Shanakyle Bog Restoration and Habitat Enhancement Project launch day in Parteen. For more, go to p16.

Photo by Natasha Barton

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

• LIFEGUARD INSTRUCTOR ACTIVE ENNIS 2022 (PERMANENT PART-TIME)

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 6th October 2022.

• SENIOR STAFF OFFICER PANEL 2022

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Monday 10th October 2022.

• REFUGEE MATCHING & RELATIONSHIP MANAGER (1 YEAR CONTRACT)

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Friday 7th October 2022.

• INFORMATION SYSTEMS

TECHNICAL SUPPORT OFFICER

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 13th October 2022.

Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846439, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie

Taoiseach: we are ‘getting on with’ Shannon Heritage transfer

Clare sites of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Craggaunow en, Knappogue Castle and a retail outlet at the Cliffs of Mo her remain in limbo.

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

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

tractorLoopheadrun ISSUES

THE twelfth Loophead vintage tractor run will take place on this Sunday, September 25, starting in Cross village. The event is run in aid of Crumlin and Temple Street Bumblance service. Further details are available from John Bonfil (087-7858399) or Pat Browne(087-9033889).

surrounding the transfer of Shannon Her itage sites remain unre solved while discussions continue between Govern ment Departments, Shannon Airport Group and Clare Co Council.LastJune, Shannon Airport Group announced plans to transfer ownership of Shan non Heritage sites to local authorities.InApril,ownership of King John Castle reverted to Lim erick City and County Coun cil while on New Year’s Eve Shannon Heritage ended their management contracts with An Post and Fingal Council for sites in Dublin.

However, 15 months on, the

When questioned on the delays in the Dáil in February, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin (FF) said Clare County Coun cil need to “get on with” the acquisition, remarks which saw him lambasted by local members of the Fianna Fáil party.An Taoiseach defended his remarks when speaking to The Clare Echo in Shan non on Friday and insisted they were not flippant. “I’m a believer that we should move and get it done, I accept that discussions are underway, the Government can play a part in making sure the trans fer can be smooth but also the County Council’s worry and genuine concern is that it has the capacity to make a suc

cess of this and to deal with deficits that are there, there’s a lot in the various assets and entities, those discussions are underway and I will talk to the Ministers to get the thing resolved”.Shannon Chamber Pres ident, Eoin Gavin was pres ent when the Taoiseach was questioned about the sites by The Clare Echo. He said he was encouraged by the sen timents expressed by Martin.

Eoin said, “As a chamber representing over 300 mem bers extending to 15,000 em ployees in the region, Shan non Chamber has already expressed to Government and the region’s elected rep resentatives the pivotal role the heritage sites play in the economy of the Mid-West re gion, in attracting tourists to the area and in driving pas senger traffic through Shan non Airport. A decision on the

approval of funding to enable the transition to the Council should be considered urgent and vital as these sites can not be neglected at a time when there has never been a greater need to develop all our resources for economic development, especially in the West of Ireland”.

Clare TD, Michael Mc Namara (IND) in a parliamen tary question to the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan (GP) sought information on when a decision would be made on the proposed transfer and if financial supports would be provided by the Government to Clare County Council to fa cilitate the development.

Minister Ryan in response outlined that in May, an in ter-departmental working group was established and has identified “a number of ways to support a transfer”.

l THIS LITTLE PIGGY: One of the animals at Bunratty Folk Park, which could soon come under ownership of Clare Co Council

forFanoreHometowngigDaithí Stage set in Dromoland

“I FEEL like I’m more connected to where I’m from than I’ve ever been,” Daithí said about his latest album I’m Here Now, which was heavily inspired by his hometown.

Off the back of this release, Daithí is com ing home with an exclusive performance at Fómhar in Fanore, Ireland’s newest mini festival which comes to O’Donohue’s Pub on October 8, with additional appearances from Strange Boy, Bog Bodies, Toshín & DoraClareGola.born multi-instrumentalist and producer Daithí will headline the night with his signature fiddle and dance infused sounds. He will be joined by trad-hiphop fusion poet Strange Boy, heavy folk outfit Bog Bodies, R&B artist Toshín along with her massive 6-piece band, and Clare based sing-songwriter and dancer DoraSetGola.ina stunning venue of O’Donohue’s Pub by the Clare coastline, this is a show not to be missed!

DoorsTickets5pm.for this stacked line-up are only €20, avail able from Eventbrite now.

by SEAMUS HAYES

D Women’shostingtryCastleROMOLANDAndCounClubcouldbeTheKPMGIrishOpen for the next two years if the 2022 event proves to be a success.

Golfers tee off at 8am on Thursday for the European Tour event which has brought some of the top female golfers to Clare. A total of 126 golfers will take to the fairways on Thursday in cluding Ennis’ Aideen Walsh (8:30am tee off) and Leona Ma guire (12:55pm tee off).

It is the first time since 2012 that the Women’s Irish Open has been held. Excitement has been expressed by Dromoland Castle with staff eager to welcome spec tators and guests to their cham pionship course.

RTÉ and Sky Sports will broad cast from Newmarket-on-Fer gus, coverage airs on RTÉ News Now from 3pm to 6pm on Thursday and Friday with RTÉ Two showing the golf on Satur day and Sunday. Sky Sports Mix is also covering 3 hours each day with Sky Sports Golf joining at the weekend. The action can also be streamed on the RTÉ Player and the SkyGo app.

A spokesperson for Shannon Airport Group told The Clare Echo they have planted their pro motional signage directly in the eye-line of television cameras to maximise exposure for Shannon Airport over the four days. Man agement previously came under fire for their failure to promote the Airport during the 2019 Irish Open held in Lahinch.

By the conclusion of the ac tion on Sunday, it is expected that organisers will announce

Dromoland as the venue for the Women’s Irish Open for 2023. The Clare Echo understands that it is also in line to host the tour nament in 2024.

A tented village has been erected within the grounds of the Dromoland estate with Clare County Council among the or ganisations to have a tent where they will showcase local artisan products. “We’re good at hosting golf tournaments as we’ve shown in Lahinch. We’ve worked with

Dromoland to host the event successfully,” Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling stated. Newmarket representative, Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) com mented, “There is a momentous occasion happening in Dromo land this week, a massive amount of work has gone into this over the last six months”. He labelled the preparatory work as “aston ishing”. “I am hopeful surround ing villages and the county will benefit in huge way. Accessibility a major factor. What astonishes me is Dromoland got this, this is basically a rural area, if it goes well this year, I’m told we could have it for another two years”.

Director of Economic Devel opment with the County Coun cil, Liam Conneally detailed that crowds of 4,000 to 5,000 are esti mated to attend on Thursday and Friday with the number rising to between 8,000 and 10,000 for the weekend. “The benefit is not to just to the golf course but neigh bouring villages and towns, peo ple staying will hopefully stay in nearby locations and our towns and villages will benefit from it”.

Conneally said the local au thority was keen to be featured on television channels to maxi mise “a huge marketing opportu nity for our county”.

Conditions improving at UHL says Taoiseach

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

IIMPROVEMENTS

are visible at Uni

versity Hospital Limerick (UHL), the Taoiseach has claimed.

Despite UHL setting a new record for seven day attendances at its emer gency department last month, the Taoise ach remained of the view that conditions were improving at the region’s main hospi tal.Speaking in Co Clare over the past week,

An Taoiseach Micheál Martin (FF) noted, “A lot of investment went into the hospital, extra beds and investment in A&E.

“Improvements are beginning to be seen now in terms of patient flow through the hospitals and various initiatives and inno vations taking place with how the hospital is organised.”“Obviously COVID-19 had a big impact on UHL but it had a big impact on every hospital, the level of delays are not satisfac tory,” he added.

l SWINGING INTO ACTION: Italy’s Virginia Elena Carta practices on Tuesday ahead of the Women’s Irish Open Photo by Brian Arthur

DOWN WITH THE COOL KIDS

‘We will keep pressure on’ for Ennis A&E

the bid to reopen the A&E at Ennis Hospital, writes Páraic McMahon

Last week, the Dáil was presented with a petition from the Mid West Hospi tal Campaign containing 15,000 signatures calling for proper acute care at University Hospital Limer ick (UHL) plus the upgrad ing of Ennis and Nenagh to model three hospitals which would include the reopening of their emer gencyHelddepartments.inprivate session, the petitions committee had a hearing on the matter last Wednesday. The peti tions committee of the Dáil has the power to invite the Minister for Health to an swer questions about the

H madeprogressmisticareactivitstsEALTHoptiwithinpetition. In consideration of the petition, the commit tee agreed that the response received by UL Hospitals Group be forwarded to the Mid West Hospital Cam paign for comment within 14 days. The petition and correspondence from UL Hospitals Group will also be sent to the Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) and the HSE.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Noeleen Moran of the Mid West Hospital Campaign outlined that she was happy the petition had been accepted and was hopeful it would proceed further with either the pe titions or health committee.

“We’re very happy to get it across this line and get it to this stage. We will con tinue to keep the pressure on”.

l NATIONAL AIRWAVES: Radio host Jennifer Zamparelli with students from Mary Immaculate Secondary School as the RTE Radio 2FM Roadshow visited Lisdoonvarna last week

Photo by Brendan Cusack

Mountshannon to light up for Culture Night

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

ILLUSTRATED maps will be launched in Mount shannon as part of Culture Night.Two community events will be held in Mountshan non as part of Culture Night this coming Friday. It be gins with a lantern parade at Market House where the whole community is invited to come together.

Local artist Nathalie El Baba will be showing the children of Lakyle and Iniscealtra schools how to create lanterns from wil low and tissue paper and the children will then join with their families on a walk down to the harbour, and then up into Aistear Park, where there will be some special entertainment, and lightAnotherrefreshments.localartist Mark Wilson will launch the Vi king Longboat on another tour of the village and will be joined by stilt walkers and much more entertain

ment.Also on Friday, the Mountshannon Illustrated Map which is hosted by Mountshannon Arts in as sociation with Mountshan non Community Council will be launched. Anita’s at 6pm will be the location for the launch where chairper son of Mountshannon Arts, Melanie White will unveil this brand new digital map which features Mountshan non’s many artistic and ar chitectural landmarks.

Mel explained, “This map has been funded by Clare Community Council Sup port Scheme, a support scheme for public area and amenity enhance ment and will be a great addition to showcase the village’s many attractions. All are welcome to view the map which will also be available as a poster’ ‘We are delighted to be able to host two events on Culture Night and look forward to meeting everyone”.

Rename afterroundaboutsClareouricons

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

A NUMBER of roundabouts in Clare are to be considered for renaming in a bid to “enhance the marketability of the county for tourism and benefit of Shannon Interna tional Airport”.

In a proposal before Clare Co Council, Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) asked that the fea sibility of naming roundabouts after famous people, historic events and local landmarks beDirectorconsidered.ofRural Development, Leonard Cleary said placenames committee would need to be consulted on the motion.

Sharon Shannon (pictured), Michael Cu sack and Anthony Foley were among the names suggested by Cllr McMahon who also referenced the Kilfenora Céilí Band, Tulla Céilí Band and Spancilhill as ways to promote the county’s ties to traditional mu sic. Tuamgraney could have a sign to say it is home of the Aga Khan, he said while also mentioning the West Clare Railway.

Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling said he was “listen ing carefully” to the views and noted the opportuni ty within their grasp.

l INITIATIVE: Mel White, chair of Mountshannon Arts Committee with sneak preview of Mountshannon’s new digital map

Tuamgraney jumps for joy at return of Blake & Aga Khan

ey (FF) completed the line-up of dignitaries.

At the request of Michael, the event was held in The East Clare Memorial Park. The historic event was recorded by Scariff Bay Community Radio for broadcast.

MICHAEL Blake enjoyed a hero’s welcome when he re turned to Tuamgraney with the Aga Khan trophy, the most famous piece of silver ware in Notedshowjumping.asoneofthemost glittering prizes in sport, the trophy was donated by Aga Khan III in 1926. Intensive security surrounds the movement of the silverware but Michael’s role ensured it headed to East Clare. The cup is entitled to travel for the purposes of a civic event and it was the first time it travelled out side of the capital.

In August, as the Chef d’Équipe (manager) he led Team Ireland to glory in The Nations Cup at the RDS with the trophy then present ed to Michael and his colleagues by President Michael D. Higgins. It ended a seven year gap for the country to claim the Aga Khan and was Ireland’s 24th time winning it.

Early qualification for the 2024 Olympics in Tokyo has also been secured and they are the first representatives of Team Ireland to have sealed their seats on the plane to Japan.

Wednesday’s event concluded with Michael giving a rendition of Danny Boy followed by streams of people among the crowd of hun dreds queueing to get their picture with the Aga Khan. His commitment to bring the tro phy back to Tuamagraney was mentioned by several officials on the nights.

Michael said that the success capped off “a fantastic year” which included winning the Nations Cup in four different continents. “In six and a half days our world changed, we got the Aga Khan and Olympic qualification, it was fantastic”. He recalled the 1963 Grand Prix success of his late father John and ac knowledged “he wold be thrilled with this”.

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

A civic ceremony saw Michael joined by fellow team members Cian O’Connor and Max Wachman, representatives of Horse Sport Ireland, Cathaoirleach of Clare Co

The Poets Corner Bar Brendan O'Regan Restaurant special occasions. The menu cuisine

Council, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) and his col leagues in the Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Pat Burke (FG) and Cllr Joe Cooney (FG). Senator Timmy Dool

He maintained, “Irish people are good to follow the plan, you’ve to target what you want to do and we’re good at targeting our aims and wanting to follow them through”. Tuamgraney’s own Mayor, Mary Coffey de scribed the occasion as “absolutely fantastic”.

CEO of Horse Sport Ireland, Joe Reynolds revealed that the most “significant” thing he has completed in his role was recruiting Mi chael Blake.

The

l IN HIGH SPIRITS: Michael Blake sings a rendition of ‘Danny Boy Photo by Ruth Griffin

Indoor sports facility touted for Kilrush

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

A N ActivedevelingplansamongfacilityINDOORisthefortheKil

rush Sports Complex.

Gallery Park Pitch, a floodlit grass pitch of 100m x 70m which is the home of Kilrush Rangers AFC, a 400m running track, a 75m X 38m astro-turf pitch and Cappagh Playground are among the current facilities at Active Kilrush officially opened in February 2018.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) has called on the West Clare Municipal District in con junction with the Housing Department to commence a public consultation pro cess “for the development of Kilrush actively to provide an indoor sports facility with universally accessible toilets and changing rooms

that will facilitate a basket ball centre of excellence” for the area and county. His motion was seconded by Cllr Shane Talty (FF).

Acting senior executive officer in the West Clare MD, John O’Malley said they would work with the Social Directorate “on this public consultation process for the Active Kilrush pro posed indoor facility.”

Cllr Lynch stressed that basketball teams from West Clare currently have to go to Ennis to train, “There is a huge need for this not just in Kilrush but in West Clare, I’ve said it many times before, the town is a DEIS town, sport and music are the things that bring the people together, without the facility we can’t bring people together, the current facility is super but it has a stigma around it that only certain people of the town can use it”.

Shannon

gers journey as easy as possible is at the core of everything we do here at Shannon Air port. Our team worked hard to get Shannon Airport recognised as one of the first Age Friendly Airports in the world, along with Ireland West Airport”.

SHANNON

AIRPORT has been shortlisted for a National Age Friendly Award.

Both Shannon Airport and Ire land West Airport have been jointly shortlisted for the Age Friendly Transport Award which recognises the vital difference that availability to good quality, easily ac cessible, user friendly and reliable transport options can make to an older person.

In June of this year, Shannon Airport and Ireland West Airport became the first air ports in the world to be recognised as Age Friendly, endorsed by the World Health Or ganisationDromoland(WHO).Castle is the venue for the first Age Friendly Awards since 2019, the event will be hosted by Clare County Council. The primary aim of the National Age Friendly Awards is to recognise and reward achieve ment in age friendly initiatives around Ire land.CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine said: “Making the passen

She added, “We implemented a number of initiatives across the airport to make it eas ily accessible and user friendly for all ages, including designated age-friendly parking, better signage, and covered walkways from aircraft into the terminal, as well as our hightech security scanning system which removes the 100ml only rule for liquids carried in cab in bags. We are very proud to be shortlisted under the Transport Award category”.

Joe Gilmore maintained the “prestigious award” served as “due recognition for both our airports and the hard work our staff have done in creating a more age friendly environ ment at our respective airports. We continue to enhance and further improve our facilities and service offering to ensure the airport ex perience for our customers is a relaxing and enjoyable one for all who use the facility, but particularly for those most vulnerable in so ciety who rely on that extra personal touch and care which can be so important to them as they journey through the airport”.

l ON THE RUN: The U13 cross country team which will represent Clare in the National Community Games Finals in Navan on October 8. The Clare competition was run at the weekend by Margaret and Vincent McCarthy. GAMES

Clare recognition heroes

ENNIS representatives are calling for Clare’s All-Ireland winning hurlers of the 1990s to get “proper recognition” at this year’s county final.

Criticism had been voiced with the manner in how the All-Ireland winners of 1995 and 1997 were honoured in Croke Park this July on All-Ireland final day.

In what was the first occasion since the pandemic that the jubi lee teams were present on All-Ire land final day, the team captained by Anthony Daly and managed by Ger Loughnane were brought onto the field prior to the game when the stadium was not at full capac ity. In times gone by, the winning side of 25 years ago were ordinarily introduced at half-time and given a rousingAddingreception.further salt to those raw wounds for this year’s All-Ireland

final day was the blunder in the match programme which omitted Clare’s four All-Ireland SHC titles in the roll of honour in what the GAA said was “down to an error in the editing process”.

Mayor of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) has issued a request for Clare GAA to honour the All-Ireland winners of 1995 and 1997 at this year’s Clare SHC final. “I want to ensure proper recognition is given to the Clare hurlers which was not had at the recent All-Ireland finals in Croke Park,” she said. Her pro posal was seconded by Cllr Mary Howard (FG).

It is the second time in three months that county councillors have put forward their recommen dations on how the County Board conduct their affairs. At the June meeting of the County Council, Cllr Howard proposed that groups such as Ennis Brass Band or the Tulla Pipe Band be utilised to play the national anthem for games in Cusack Park rather than “a scratchy tape”.

l GREAT MEMORIES: The ‘97 team bus arriving in Newmarket-on-Fergus

Photo by Joe Buckley

Moneypoint a major part of our 'untapped potential'

Shanakyle Bog restoration and habitat enhancement project

HollandTadhg

MINISTER

THEfor the Environment, Ea mon Ryan (GP) has Moneypointpinpointedasa

vital component in Ireland reduc ing its energy emissions.

completed Shanakyle Bog resto ration and habitat en hancement project was launched earlier this month in a celebration of what is a first of its kind environmental ini tiative in Co. Clare.

Shanakyle, Parteen is the first raised bog to be rewetted in the county, a process of blocking drains to restore cut and degraded bogs to their previous condition.

Members of the Shannon Es tuary Economic Taskforce are currently assessing the strategic strengths and comparative ad vantages of the Estuary will be as sessed by the Taskforce while also scoping out potential economic opportunities. The group is to have a report compiled by the end of ChairpersonNovember.

Bog rewetting and rewilding creates favourable conditions for native biodiversity, enabling the growth sphagnum mosses, a re nowned carbon sink, making this project a major step forward into a greener future for Clare.

of the Taskforce, Barry O’Sullivan recently met with Minister Ryan and for the Green Party leader their engagement hammered home the possibilities for the entire region surrounding the Shannon Estuary.

During his time as Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources from 2007 to 2011, Ryan set a target of 40 per cent of the country’s energy com

Barry O’Loughlin, the ecologist who headed up the bog resto ration, told The Clare Echo about the significance of the project. “Bogs store twice as much carbon as the world’s tropical rainforests. An EPA funded research study was carried out on Moyarwood Bog, a raised bog in Galway, and over a five-year period they discovered there was. 78 tonnes of carbon per hectare per year being absorbed

on a rewetted section. Then they looked at a drained section for comparison and they found that it was emitting 1.57 tonnes per hect are per year”.

ing from renewable sources, this was met in 2020. Now, he wants this doubled to 80 percent by 2030.

“I’m convinced we can do it, one of the ways we can do it is by switching offshore, our sea area is seven times our land area, there is a limit in Kerry as to how much turbines you can put up in any area but at sea, the resource is huge and the wind power is really strong,” he stated.Offshore wind energy by Mon eypoint is central to this. Speaking on Radio Kerry’s flagship current affairs show, Kerry Today, Minister Ryan outlined, “We will have a lot of offshore wind which will come into shore at the Shannon Estuary, that’s where we have the deep-wa ter"Ifport.you look at what the likes of ESB are proposing and look at Moneypoint on the other side of the Estuary and similar with Tar bert on this side, you’ve all you need there, you have a really good deep water jetty so any ships can get in, you have a platform there which you could deploy turbines out but what the ESB want to do, you bring the offshore wind in there, you use the grid which we have, there’s major electricity wires

The Inagh man said, “The Shanakyle Bog restoration all start ed when landowner Catherine Ní Ciardha contacted me to manage her land for biodiversity. I had carried out my masters project on Shanakyle bog in 2010, that’s how I knew Catherine, and since then I had worked with Bord na Móna on large scale rewetting and rehabili tation programs. So, I just said [to Catherine] ‘why don’t we restore the bog?’ which she was on for and then we ended up diversifying the project to include the creation of a wildlife pond, managing 10 acres of grassland for a wildflow er meadow, and installing 30 bird nest boxes for rare and endangered species”.Therestoration of the 30 acre bog was completed on funding of €3 million allocated by Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversi ty, Pippa Hackett (GP) who attend ed the launch.

The restoration was a major suc cess, Shanakyle bog has passed 50% sphagnum moss cover which means it is now considered ‘an ac tive raised bog’. Active raised bogs constitute less than 1% of Ireland’s total land cover and are categorized as a rare annex 1 habitat under the

connecting to both Tarbert and Moneypoint, you can put that elec tricity onto that grid to power the thecountry.ESB are saying we should do and everyone in Europe is now talking about and starting to do, you convert the electricity into hydrogen and use electrolysis, it is a new but advancing technolo gy, when the wind isn’t blowing you burn the hydrogen to generate power and you run the power out on the same grid, you have a con tinuous stable electricity source,” he explained.

EU habitats directive despite their environmental importance.

Barry says he’s already seen a big improvement in the biodiversity of the bog, “we carried out the work from October to December in 2021 and already we’re seeing sphagnum growing. Then of course we’re get ting a lot of birds of prey coming to the bog and we’re getting mallards as well so it’s becoming a biodiver sity

Boghotspot”.restoration is becoming popular nationwide, and Bar ry thinks the work at Shanakyle could inspire others, “a communi ty in Offaly contacted us and came down and now they want to do something after seeing what we’ve done so it does have a knock-on effect on other groups. There’s a group in Galway which have got funding and they’ve come down to Shanakyle as well, there’s just a huge interest in wetlands and what people can do on their own land. They see how it’s done, and it en courages them to do something similar”.

Minister Ryan insisted that this was necessary. “We will have emergency generators to provide back up as well, we do need that, the really big strategic option by 2030 what we’re planning to have is 5GW of offshore wind and to put that in scale, that is equivalent to the amount of energy we’re using

el, then the following decade and this is the really big industrial plan for the country, we can use that to go further to really tap into the

Catherine Ni Ciardha Land owner, Minister for state for Land Use and Biodiversity Pippa Hackett and Ecologist and Project Lead Barry O’Loughlin at the Shanakyle Bog Restoration and Habitat Enhancement Project EIP Launch Day

Photo by Natasha Barton

Different groups in attendance at the Shanakyle Bog Restoration and Habitat Enhancement Project EIP Launch Day

Photo by Natasha Barton

McMahonPáraic

number of volunteers were out in force for annual Big Beach Clean weekend with an estimated 2.5 tonnes of litter collected in Clare.

Taking place between September 16th and 18th, the Big Beach Clean serves as an annual call to action that runs as part of the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC), oper ated internationally by Ocean Conservan cy and invites communities and volunteers around the country to remove litter from around the Irish coast after the end of the bathing season.

This year, a record number of over 500 clean-ups were organised by volunteers who removed over 63 tonnes of litter nationwide.

In Clare, 25 groups banded together to

carry out clean-up events removing in esti mated 2.5 tonnes of litter over the weekend.

Among these groups, we were joined by Spanish Point Community Group, Broth ers of Charity, Cappa Community Group, Scariff National School, Fanore Community Group, Ballvaughan Community Develop ment Group/Tidy Towns, Ennistymon Tidy Towns and Connolly Tidy Village and other households, groups and individuals.

These groups, tackled litter in several locations, including Spanish Point, Whit estrand Miltown Malbay, Cappa, Scariff, Fanore, Bishops Quarter, Ennistymon River Region, Connolly and more.

Clean Coasts officer Dara Dever joined a group of volunteers in Seafield who carried out a litter pick and marine litter survey. The event was such a success that the volunteers decided to register as a permanent Clean Coasts group called Seafield Clare who hope to do regular clean ups in the future.

Each year this initiative is also an oppor

tunity for Big Beach Clean Clare volunteers to get involved in a worldwide citizen sci ence project, which entails collecting the amount and types of litter on Irish beaches and filling in Clean Coasts’ Marine Litter Data Cards to share with Ocean Conservan cy, help heighten awareness about the issue of marine litter serving as an indicator of the magnitude of the problem and help shape future policies and campaigns.

Once more, volunteers were asked to join the call to action, no matter how far from the coast. Statistics show that the number one cause of marine litter is litter dropped in towns and cities and getting involved in the Big Beach Clean has been a way for res idents of non-coastal counties to help pre vent litter entering our waterways tackle the problem at its source.

So far, data collected from the Internation al Coastal Cleanup have informed policy in a number of areas, leading to laws banning the use of plastic grocery bags; prohibiting

smoking-related litter; encouraging the use of reusable bags; prohibiting mass balloon releases; and prohibiting foam food and beverage takeaway containers. Cully and Sully supported the initiative again this year.

Record number of volunteers collected 3.5 tonnes of litter for Big Beach Clean in Clare ARECORD

Brandon, Lutta and Lisa taking part in the big beach clean

Glasshouse Ensemble set for Killaloe show

MCMAHONPÁRAIC

paraic@clareecho.ie

STFLANNAN’S Cathedral is set to welcome Glasshouse Ensemble to its stunning setting next month.

Fresh from a summer of sold out festival appearances where they de lighted audiences with interpretations of Aphex Twin amongst others, Glasshouse En semble have announced a very special show at St. Flannans Cathedral Killaloe on Friday October 7th 2022.

Golden Hour will be performed by the award winning classical ensemble along with a mixture of music by crowd favourites in cluding Kate Bush, Bowie, Phoebe Bridgers, Prince, Big Thief, Bon Iver, Sufjan Stevens, Olafur Arnalds, Sakamoto, LCD Soundsys tem and Glasshouseothers.Producer

Michael Stone said they were “excited to present a selection of favourites, songs that inspire and delight us”.

They will be joined on the night by inde pendent singer Síomha from Ennis warming the crowd up with her folk, jazz and neo-soul infused sounds.

Poet and visual artist Fergus Costello will

open the show with a spoken word piece evoking the lake and surrounds.

Doors will open at 7pm for the concert, tickets are available now from Eventbrite now. This show is presented by CWB, in con

junction with the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media and the Clare County Council and Clare Arts Of fice.

UCC Open Day returns

AFTER 3 years, the 2022 UCC Open Day is back on campus and, this year, it's bigger and better than ever! On Saturday 8 October, the gates of UCC will be open and you are in vited to come explore our teaching, learning, research and recreation al spaces, and to meet some of our campus

Together,community!inUCC, we put the ‘us’ in campus and we are excited to show you exactly what we at UCC are all about. As well as the chance to speak to our students and staff about our world-class degree programmes, there'll be lots to see and do such as a Clubs and Societies showcase, guid ed tours, and parent talks.

Get the answers you need before you apply via CAO. By attending our Open Day, you’ll begin your journey at UCC. Should you decide UCC is for you, you will have the chance to belong to a vibrant and diverse com munity of over 24,000 students, from over 100 different countries. You will become the person you want to be, and part of a global family, united by shared experiences, shared values and shared ambition.

Check out www.ucc.ie/openday for the full agenda of what’s on offer.

#BeginBelongBecome

COMMEMORATION FOR

LISDOONVARNA’S NEVILLE

A Centenary Commemoration for Michael Neville will be held at 2pm on Sunday, September 25 at Kilmoon Cem etery,MichaelLisdoonvarna.Nevillefrom Lisdoonvarna, fought with the Dublin City Brigade of the IRA. He took the Republican anti treaty side in 1921 and was killed by members of the Free State’s Criminal Investigation Department (Oriel House Gang) on September 22, 1922. Michael was taken from his place of work at Mooneys pub, Eden Quay by the CID and some hours later his body was found at Killester Cemetery where it was evident from his injuries that he had been tortured before being shot. A memori al stone (pictured) marking the place his body was found is still stand ing today. Michael Neville was brought home to Lisdoonvarna for burial. The commemoration which is being organised by North Clare Sinn Féin will take place by Michael Neville’s graveside in Kilmoon cemetery. It will be chaired by Noeleen Moran. The main speaker is the former Lord Mayor of Dublin Cllr Mícheál MacDonncha. Mícheál MacDonncha as well as being a Cllr is also an author and historian and former editor of an Phoblacht. All are welcome to attend.

NCHS SEPTEMBER TALK

The North Clare Historical Society are delighted to be back hosting its lecture series with a talk by Tony Kirby entitled SEPARATE BURIAL TRADITION: KILLEENS/UNBAPTISED BABIES’ BURIAL GROUNDS IN NORTH CLARE. The Catholic tradition of separate burial of unbaptised babies dates from the 1600s and the tradition lasted until the 1960s. Whilst the majority buried in unconsecrated sites (killeens) were un baptised babies, a minority were adults who were deemed not to have followed life’s normal courses – “a category of otherness”.

The talk will feature concise insights in to the history, geography, theol ogy and folklore of killeens…as well as new findings regarding several killeens in North Clare. Tony Kirby has lectured extensively on unbap tised babies’ burial grounds. He is making a radio documentary, along with Tom Flanagan, regarding the killeen on Island Eddy in Galway.

The talk will take place on Monday September 26 at The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 8pm Admission €5

ENNIS

CLARE LEADER AGM

The Clare Leader Forum AGM takes place on Friday September 23 in Cloughleigh Community Hall at 11am. Guest speaker is Michael Donnel lan, Adult Education Training Centre. Tea & sandwiches will be served.

HARMONY BRIDGE CLUB

Harmony Bridge Club meets every Friday evening at 7.30 at The Bridge Center Ennis. New members welcome. Winners from last week: 1st Peg gy Glynn and Gerry Broderick, 2nd Frances Black and Breda Flanagan.

NORTHONLINE

FREE JOB VISION BOARD WORKSHOP

Do you need some time and space to reset your career and focus on what’s important in your work? Do you feel like you are stuck on a “treadmill” at work, working really hard but not getting where you want to go? Are you lacking fulfillment, satisfaction and motivation at work that is impacting on other areas of your life? If you answered yes, why not join County Clare’s Emma Lynch, The Optimal Performance Coach at 7pm on Tuesday October 4, for a free online Ideal Job Vision board workshop. This fun and practical session will give you time and space to reflect on where you are right now. The space will also allow you to create an awareness and vision of what you are looking for and the first steps you need to take to make the vision a reality. Registration is essential and you can register by emma@theoptimalperformancecoach.comemailing or by using this link

30TH BEWLEYS COFFEE MORNING FOR CAHERCALLA & OTHER HOSPICES

Communities across Clare are being urged to gather a group today (Thursday, September 22) and do coffee their way for the 30th Bewley’s Big Coffee Morn ing Social for Hospice.

And if they can’t host a coffee morning social, people are being asked to donate to help raise much needed funds to support the work of Cahercalla Hospice, Clare.

Local businesses getting in volved include Shannon Springs Hotel, welcoming visitors from 10am-12pm for teas, coffees, scones and sweeat treats.

COUNTYWIDE

“We are delighted Bewley’s Big Coffee Morning Social for Hospice is back for another year raising funds in support of Hospice in-patient and commu nity services around Ireland,” said Mary Malone of Cahercalla Hospice.

IRISH WHEELCHAIR ASSOCIATION ASKS CLARE TO SUPPORT NATIONAL FUNDRAISING DAY

The Irish Wheelchair Association is hosting a National Fundraising Day on Thursday, September 29 and has asked county Clare to support the campaign. The Fundraising Day is the charity’s largest and most important fundraising day and will see staff and volunteers at centres and other onstreet locations in the county shaking buckets in a bid to help raise €100,000 in vital funding. Over 20,000 people benefit from services provided by the IWA. www.iwa.ie for more information.

EAST CLARE

SR BRIEGE MC KENNA COMES TO KILLALOE

Big crowds are expected to attend the Parish Mission in Killaloe Church led by Sr Briege McKenna from Monday next 26th - Wednesday 28th September.

Sr Briege,a Sister of St Clare is renowned worldwide for her ministry of healing. She has written many books,most notably MIRACLES DO HAPPEN which shares her insights about faith and the power of the Eucharist for healing.

There will be two sessions each day at 10am and at 7 30pm. Full details on the Killaloe Parish Facebook page and on Church notice boards.

ILLUSTRATED MAP OF MOUNTSHANNON AND ART TRAIL

Mountshannon Arts in Association with Mountshannon Community Council, on behalf of their committees take immense pleasure in inviting you to the launch of the Illustrated Map of Mount shannon and Art Trail.

The launch will be accompanied by an exhibition of the individually painted illustrations of many of Mountshannon’s local businesses, sites and Art installations.

The exhibition will take place on the 23rd of September 6-8pm and we would be delighted to have you in attendance.

Each element of the Map was hand illustrated by local artist Maximillist Art and in collaboration with graphic designer Feena Kavanagh, this map brings to life the colourful and quirky nature of our local community in one large illustration that we will install for visitors at the local harbour.

l I’LL DRINK TO THAT: Brendan Gleeson, whose parents were cared for in St Francis Hospice in Dublin, is asking the people of Clare to get involved

THE West Clare Family Resource Centre held an Open Day in the Community Cen tre Hall in Kilrush last Friday to showcase all the services and supports offered to people living in West Clare and give people the op portunity to meet the Family Resource Cen tre (FRC) team.

The FRC is a community-led organisation, whose goal is to make West Clare a place where everyone is equally valued, included, safe and respected.

The FRC delivers a wide variety of ac tivities, supports, and programmes, which include education and training, support groups as well as one-to-one support, af fordable counselling and therapy, family support programmes, wellbeing, and social activities. Additional professional assistance from organisations such as MABS, Employ ability Clare, Community Substance Misuse Team and the Coolmine Addiction Service are also provided at the centre.

The Over 55s Project run a range of physi cal, social, and lifelong learning activities for people over the age of 55, regularly bring ing in external tutors. These activities allow the participants to make new friends, share positive experiences, discover new inter ests, and improve their physical and mental health, whilst having fun at the same time.

Throughout the year, different social out

ings and events take place, such as Mystery Tours, monthly Tea Dances, and the annu al Christmas Lunch. The Family Resource Centre continues to offer several activities online via Zoom, so that people who are liv ing very remote parts of West Clare and have no form of transport, can continue to take part, and feel socially included.

The range of activities are well-received with very positive feedback. “I have made loads of friends that I never know before I went to the Go For Life exercise games. I meet many of them in the supermarket and other places and it’s lovely to have that con nection with people,” said one visitor.

“The Tai Chi classes are very relaxing. I feel much more flexible, and I feel energised for my “Fromday.”aman’s perspective, I didn’t know what to expect at the Aqua Aerobics and wondered if I would be the only man. I was pleasantly surprised to find I wasn’t and even knew the other man and his wife. I am thoroughly enjoying it now that I have got ten into it and starting to feel the benefits, both physically and psychologically.”

For more infomation on the West Clare Family Resource Centre, call 065 905 2173.

ENNIS

ARIANDE’S THREADWITH BEATA ROSIK

EASI Studio 6 - 9pm

UKRAINIAN ARTIST’S POINT OF VIEW ON IRELAND EASI Studio 6 - 9pm

CELEBRATING CULTURAL DIVERSITY IN CLARE Market Building 6 - 8pm

PASSING ON POETRY Lees Road Park 6 - 6.45pm

TEACH – HOUSE

Clare Museum 6 - 6.45pm

HANDS IN HARMONY DEAF PERFORMANCE

The Women’s Shed 6.30 - 8pm

JASKANE De Valera Library 6:30 - 7:30pm

LAOISE KELLY & TOLA CUSTY glór Studio 6.30 - 7.30pm

MUSIC CONCERTGENERATION

St Columba’s Church 7 - 9pm

CULTURE NIGHT WITH SENAN M Record Break Café 7.30 - 9pm

POETRY AROUNDFROMTHEWORLD De Valera Library 7.30 - 8.15pm

CLARE CÉILÍ BAND Cois na hAbhna 8 - 9.30pm

THE CIRCUS PONIES Court House Steps 8.30 - 10pm

QUEERING THE GREEN

The Women’s Shed 9 - 10.15 pm

THE JAGER BOMBERS glór Foyer 10pm until late Over 18’s only

NORTH

WEAVING WORDS & SPINNING YARNS

Stack, Ennistymon 4.30 - 5.30pm

TAR ISTEACH / Workshop at the King Thomond-

FULL DETAILS CLAREARTS.IE/EVENTS/

‘Nowhere else like it for my age group’ - West Clare Family Resource open day

Burren makes cut for US broadcast

HOLLYSTUART editor@clareecho.ie

A showcaseBrownerTVMERICANpresentSamanthawill

Clare and Limerick in her award-winning travel pro gramme, Places to Love. An episode filmed here will air early next year to millions of people across the US during prime time onTourismPBS. Ireland invited Samantha Brown to film at a number of locations around Clare and Limerick for one 30-minute episode of the latest series of Places to Love. Brown’s Places to Love showcases lesser-known spots and haunts in different destinations. Filming was supported by Fáilte Ireland. Samantha and her film crew have been capturing footage at places like The Burren Perfumery, The

Burren Smokehouse, King John’s Castle and Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Mu seum.Alison Metcalfe, Tour ism Ireland’s Head of North America, said: “Tourism Ireland was delighted to invite Samantha Brown to come and film an episode of ‘Places to Love’ in Clare and Limerick. The episode will be seen by millions of people across the United States, shining a spotlight on some of the many things to see and do here and en couraging American holi daymakers to put Clare and

Limerick on their vacation ‘wish-list’ for 2023.”

Tourism Ireland is rolling out a new ‘twinning’ initia tive in 2022, which involves each overseas market ‘twin ning’ with a specific region or area in Ireland – placing a special focus on the area. The United States is twinned with Clare and Limerick. Samantha’s visit is a great opportunity to secure excel lent positive coverage about these ‘twinned’

PICTURED:areas.Ruth Moran, Tourism Ireland; Sadie Chowen, The Burren Perfumery; Samantha Brown; and Sandra Burke, The Burren Perfumery

Family first as Donie O’Keeffe & Co proud to serve people of Clare

DONIE

O’Keefe’s Champion

Meats is truly a family business with four generations of family having helped along the way.

Now located at 1&2 Turnpike in Ennis, Donie opened his doors in 1996 at No 3 Turnpike. He was joined by his brother Pat & sister Bridgette, and together they have grown the business which now employs 17 people. The family tradition has carried on to the next generation with Donie’s daugh ter, Shauna, along with his nephews Darren and Seán – something which has made the experience all the more enjoyable for Donie.

“Family has been a big part of our business over the years,” Donie tells The Clare Echo. “It’s hugely gratifying to be able to give em ployment to them but equally, they do add a lot to the business. It’s a very personalised business, we know our customers by name and they know us by name. A lot of them would be neighbours and friends as well, so it’s great when they come into the shop to be on first-name terms with our customers.”

Donie also recognizes that the success of his business has been down to his wider team of dedicated staff. “Some of my staff

have been with me from the beginning and their hard work, loyalty and commitment to superior customer service is evident. Many of our customers come in for the chat and interaction with the staff knowing that ex pert advice is always available from the team of master butchers.”

Having grown up on a farm with a fun damental knowledge of agriculture, Donie & Pat know the importance of traceability and they work closely with local farmers in selecting the finest beef & lamb available. Now more than ever Donie recognizes the importance of offering his customers qual ity premium products and value for money without compromising on quality.

Champion Meats is a traditional butcher supplying fresh locally sourced meats with in a friendly neighbourhood atmosphere. All the beef & lamb are sourced locally and Donie has spent a lot of time working with suppliers to make sure every item he sells is from is from the best source available.

Since installing a dry aging chamber in 2021, all beef is dry aged on the bone for a minimum of 21 days to enhance the fla vour and texture which makes the produce

incredibly tender. They also offer premium quality locally sourced Lamb, Pork, Bacon and Poultry Products along with a huge se lection of ready to cook meals.

“We recognize that people’s shopping hab its have changed over the years. One thing that has remained constant is the require ment to offer top quality product at afford able prices. Our customers are aware of the importance of supporting local businesses

who offer local produce.

“We are privileged to form part of the vi brant Turnpike business community with great trading neighbours. It has become a one-stop shop for people visiting the town from all over Clare. We get great support from the people of Turnpike and for this we are always very grateful. We look forward to growing the business and many more years of serving the people of Clare.

l Above: Donie O’Keefes situated in the Turnpike Ennis & Below The dry aging process for beef and lamb

l Proud to serve: The staff at Donie O’Keefes Turnpike

Snack Shack celebrates

HOLLYSTUART

editor@clareecho.ie

C24ELEBRATING

25 years in busi ness, The Snack Shack’s quar ter century milestone will be widely celebrated – not just by the tight-knit Reidy family but also the thousands of customers who have crossed the famous yellow door at Abbey Street Car Park.

The Snack Shack has become an institu tion among those who work and study in the town centre. The family-run business draws in customers from classrooms and offices across the town who keep returning for one of their famous sandwiches, a take away breakfast, a coffee or an ice-cream. In evitably, you will be welcomed like a neigh bour into the Snack Shack, where a smile and a chat are not hard to come by.

Founder Trena has watched her custom ers grow over the last 25 years. In many cases, where she once welcomed them as students in their school uniforms, she now greets and serves them with their growing

families.Shestarted the business in 1997 with her friend from college, Sarah Corr who de parted the Snack Shack after giving birth to her firstborn a year later. Trena stresses the importance of Sarah’s influence in starting the business, and loyalty is certainly a trait identifiable with the Snack Shack.

A little-known fact, the Clarecastle native spent a year working in Tunnock’s Teacake factory in Motherwell, Scotland. “I was eating a teacake while I was doing my ex ams and I said, I’ll send them my CV. I was studying Production Management in Kev in Street, DIT. They rang me then, and said ‘come on over’.” Eagle-eyed customers will notice that Tunnock’s Teacakes are for sale at the counter of the Snack Shack today.

As time passed, the influence of the Reidy family became stronger at the Snack Shack as Trena’s sisters Edel – who previously ran the Bagel Factory – and Marie got involved. Their dad Damien is a cattle farmer by trade but is now also a fixture in the Snack Shack. “He came in helping out one day and he never got to leave,” quips Trena. It’s resulted in a harmonious working relationship and Damien admits he counts himself lucky to work beside his daughters every day. Trena

l CUSTOMER SERVICE: Edel, Damien and Trena serve their customers earlier this week as they reach the landmark of 25 years in business this year; (opposite page) the exterior of The Snack Shack at Abbey Street Car Park

Photo by Natasha Barton

25 years in business

adds, “You would be lost without family, I wouldn’t be here now without them.”

Trena smiles now when recounting her first visit to the accountant when the busi ness idea came about. “He said it would be fine as a hobby,” she laughs, noting that it quickly became a 14-hour-a-day hobby. “It is successful but that can change in a heart beat.”Noted locally for their food, the Snack Shack was also listed in 2017 by RSVP as one of the Top 10 Sandwiches in Ireland. Aside from the popularity of their food, much of the Snack Shack’s success is down to their relationship with customers. During our interview (conducted in-store), customers pass through with some even contributing to the conversation. Edel notes, “Most of our customers are repeat customers. When we had the tables, we were the nearest thing to a pub without the drink, there’s a very friendly atmosphere. Even with takeaway only, you still have it. That was the biggest change from Covid, moving to takeaway, and it’s just worked out.

“You have customers coming in who came in as schoolkids, and now they have children, their children have children now. You still have those families coming in, gen erations of families.”

adds, “You always like to see them coming in, especially around Christmas. The ones that were away and come back from Canada and Australia.” When Edel notes how Trena remembers the sandwich orders of those who have returned for the holidays, Trena jokes, “Only the ones I like … but I like all my customers.”

Thanking their customers for supporting the Snack Shack, Trena credits their suc cess with simplicity and consistency, along with their hard-working staff over the years. “Many of our employees have been siblings,

and most have stayed with us for a number of years. We wouldn’t be where we are now without them all and I’d like to thank them for the care they brought to customers over the“It’syears.hard to believe I’m here 25 years. Many of our customers have died, that’s the saddest part, the ones you really loved. We’ve seen a lot of them go. But you also watch the younger ones grow up, that’s the fun part. You’d have to thank the customers, we wouldn’t be here without them.”

Lahinch Coast Hotel – where guests are Smothered with TLC

HOLLYSTUART

LAHINCH

Coast Hotel is one of North Clare’s most popular destinations with families and golfers. Since the O’Meara family took over as co-owners in late 2018, the 147-bedroom hotel and leisure centre is showing its true colours as a family-run es tablishment.Havingendured what they describe as “a lot of highs and lows”, Bríd and John O’Meara re count Lahinch Golf Club’s host ing of the 2019 Irish Open as an early highlight. “We had the huge high of the Irish Open the year we took over, it was so exciting. The hotel was looking great, the ground floor refurb was done, we were busy,” says Bríd. “We thought it would take a long time for the bar and restaurant to take off but it really did, it still is. And then Covid hit and there was the panic that everyone in business experienced.”Despitethis early setback, John admits that being able to open during the summer months in the years that followed was their saving grace. “We got open at the right time and we were in a perfect location,” Bríd adds.

The off-season also provided the O’Mearas with another busi ness opportunity when RTE’s hit drama Smother came knocking in search of a winter base while they filmed at various locations in Clare. “Every now and then we feel lucky,” says Bríd. “We did secure the deal with Smoth er, that was lovely timing. They were here at the start of Covid. It was daunting for them as well, as Covid hit and they had to pack up and stop filming but to be fair, they came back and came at the right time. So that was a little bit of luck and it turned into series 2 and series 3. They loved it, they loved Lahinch and they were a great crew. It was a great posi tive for Lahinch and Co Clare and something we were delight ed to be part of.”

In a short time, the O’Mearas became friendly with the cast and crew of Smother, to the point where their 12-year old daugh ter Kayleigh was baking banana bread for Smother’s star actor Dervla Kirwin. Kayleigh and her brother Paddy (9) are part of the furniture at Lahinch Coast Hotel and can be regularly found on the premises where their parents ply their trade.

In a notoriously demanding in dustry, the unique dynamic of a

hotelier’s family is a “balancing act” but one that works well for the O’Mearas, who have lived in Clare since 2005. “The kids are happy,” says John. “They come into the hotel and use the pool, all the staff know them. Sometimes we have to work opposite each other [to mind the children] but that’s okay, we’ve always worked together as we met while work ing in Sheen Falls in Kenmare, then worked together in Spanish Point [where they managed the Red Cliff Lodge] and now we are here. The kids have never known any different. The winter is more ourBríddowntime.”isquick to praise her neighbours, local business peo ple and the residents of Clare. “I’m from Kerry and John is Cork but we’re not treated as blow-ins, Clare people are really lovely, very warm and welcoming.”

Lahinch Coast Hotel caters for up to 300 guests during the summer and the pair are quick to praise their dedicated staff. As many in the hospitality industry struggle with staffing issues, Bríd explains, “John and I work really hard but we have a really, really good team, from our manage ment team to our entire team of employees in each department, we’ve been blessed.”

More renovation work on the bedrooms will continue this win ter as Lahinch Coast Hotel re flects on a successful summer season. The American clientele has returned with a bang, and despite unprecedented increas es in energy costs, the O’Mearas refuse to hike their rates in line with many city hotels which have been accused of ‘price gouging’ of late. Bríd explains that they value their repeat business too much to consider a short-term gain.Employing up to 100 people in the summer, Lahinch Coast continues to extend its winter season and will remain open full-time until the end of October, with weekend trade in November before the O’Mearas, and their staff, enjoy a well-earned break for November and December.

Visit lahinchcoasthotel.ie or call 065 708 1100.

l Bríd and John O’Meara Photo by Natasha Barton

A true family businessShanahan Paints

SHANAHAN PAINTS has been supplying painting and decorating products and services to Retail, Trade and Wholesale customers in County Clare since 1972. Shanah an Paints is a story of a love for their business and the community they call home. In 1972 Michael, Bridget and the Shanahan family lived on a plot of land in Tobartaiscain (Clonroadmore) on which the business now stands.

The 4th generation of a painting contracting business, Michael Sha nahan began the well know specialist décor store Shanahan Paints. The re tail part of the business started when Michael had a few people call looking for some gloss or emulsion paint. He supplied it to them from his shed at the back of the house where he stored paints left over from contract jobs.

Michael and Briget saw the oppor tunity to sell paints to work alongside the contracting business and in 1972 the built on a store at the back of the home house to cater for the retail and

it grew from there.

The more recent phase of history has seen the Shanahan Paints busi ness branch out to open a second store in Smithstown, Shannon in 2004 and become a member of the Albany Home Décor Group, Ireland’s only in dependent specialist paints group.

It provides a strong base for quality independent operators such as Sha nahan Paints to thrive and offer cus tomers a wider choice of product and better value.

The business is now run by 4 broth ers Fergus, Corneilus, Kieran and Leonard.Corneilus and Kieran continue in their father’s footsteps and are now the 5th generation of painting contrac tors in the business.

Both the Ennis & Shannon stores were in the top 100 stores in the (REI) Retail Excellence Ireland 2022 awards. Clare had 4 retailers and Shanahans made it to the top 100.

The early years

by Cornelius Shanahan

BEING a member of a 5th generation Paint ing & Decorating business I have watched the growth and development of our Con tractor and Retail business. Priding our selves on strong values and expertise handed down from generation to generation. Noted in the Slater Royal National Commercial Directory of Ireland in 1870 it notes our ancestors C & T Shanahan Causeway Ennis (Painters & Glaziers).

4th Generation brothers Cornelius, Mi chael and William established themselves within the business and this led to the busi ness we have today.

Cornelius expanded the contract business by opening a Paint and Paper shop in the 1940s at 63 O’Connell Street Ennis. Along with his wife Maragaret the shop thrived. My mother Bridget worked there for a time. After the sudden death of Cornelius in 1963 my father entered a new path and bought a plot of land in Tobarteascain (Clonroad more).Here he build our family home that is still the heart of our business. The contracts side continued here by brothers Michael and William. Bridget (my mother) would assist locals in sourcing paint and this led to the opening of our first shop at the rear of our house in 1972. Kieran and I followed in our fathers footsteps and became Painters & Decorators and I have spent 50 years now in the business.

l Above: Corrie and Mickey 4th Generation below An advert in the Irish Times on the 27th February 1971

l The team: Fiona Kennedy, Roger Fox, Leonard Shanahan, Paul Slattery, Wayne Considine and Martha Gumula outisde Shanahan Paints premises in Ennis. Missing from photo: Fergus Shanahan (Director)Photo by Natasha Barton

Ennis Electrical serving families of Clare since 1976

HOLLYSTUART

business also, so now they’re both operating from the same location.”

ENNIS

Electrical Supplies Ltd. has been supplying the people of Clare and beyond for more than 45 years. A family business to the core, it’s headed up by Eric Flynn while his two sisters are also involved, Au drey and Paula.

Ennis Electrical’s story goes back to 1976 when Eric’s father Paul opened the first elec trical retail store at Woodquay in Ennis be fore moving the business to Parnell Street , where they still operate the shop today.

The Flynns expanded their operations in 2000 when they opened their flagship prem ises in the Quin Road Business Park. “Ini tially we just moved the trade counter side of the business to the Quin Road and then we decided to move the retail side of the

Eric tells The Clare Echo that the move was key in growing the business and broad ened their customer base. “We were one of the first businesses to do so after Market Hardware were first to relocate there, and we followed soon after. Quickly after that, people realised the business park was the place to be located because it was a lot more accessible from a parking point of view, and now we have tile shops, carpet stores, furni ture stores, DIY stores, electrical… you can pretty much do all your shopping for your new home in the Quin Road Business Park.

“The move allowed us to showcase more of our product, to improve to more modern showrooms, and we proudly stock all the brands that are available from entry level to mid-level to high end so we have a good se lection for the consumer.”

Ennis Electrical, who also operate a third store in Nenagh for the last 15 years, stock a full range of market-leading brands from

Bosch, Siemens, Neff, Miele, to Whilpool and Hotpoint across their range of cookers, American fridges, kitchen appliances, wash ing machines to vacuum cleaners, televi sions and laptops to name just a few.

Emerging from a pandemic, the electrical supplies specialist says that while they con tinue to be busy, it is not without its chal lenges. We are like many businesses navigat ing their way through the choppy waters of inflation and supply chain issues.

Electrical wholesaling has been an integral part of the business and local contractors are reliably supplied with a comprehensive range of high-quality products including ev erything from switches, sockets, cable, light ing, to showers, bulbs and more.

Customers come from Clare and beyond to visit Ennis Electrical, and Eric notes that their online store (https://www.enniselectri cal.ie/) which was recently upgraded, con tinues to attract a new market with clients from all corners of Ireland.

Eric adds, “We have a very loyal staff-base,

some of whom have been with Ennis Elec trical over 40 years. We employ a team of 30 staff and all play a hand in providing as good a service as possible to our wide customer base. Customers enjoy coming back to meet familiar faces in the store from whom they would have purchased a previous appliance or kitchen fit-out in previous years.”

Ennis Electrical is open 9am until 6pm five days a week (and until 5:30 on Satur days).

Tel: 065 6829684 Web: www.enniselectrical.ie

l Eric Flynn of Ennis Electrical

Photo by Natasha Barton

Aideen to compete against world’s best

by SEAMUS HAYES

ENNIS golfer Aideen Walsh is eagerly looking forward to playing with many of the world’s top lady professional golfers in this week’s Irish Women’s Open in Dromoland.Amember of Dromoland Golf Club, she was delighted to receive an invite from the club to play in this week’s event.

Speaking to The Clare Echo after a practice round at the club on Tuesday, the three times Irish ladies senior cup winner with Lahinch said, “it’s great to have this champion ship back after twelve years. There is a huge buzz around the place and I am really look ing forward to taking part”.

Aideen recalled joining the junior section at Woodstock under the then junior con veynor James Meade. Her fa ther Martin, a leading pitch and putt player and current captain of the Clare pitch and putt team, brought herself and her brother Cormac to the club. Cormac is currently de veloping his golf skills in South Carolina.

“I took to the game quickly and managed to move up and ranks and get the handicap down through the junior sec tion at Woodstock. I was for tunate to get to join Lahinch and get on to various teams there and that afforded me the opportunity to play with Irish internationals on a regular ba sis and to develop my skills,” the plus 3 handicapper told The Clare Echo.

“I played in a similar event in Northern Ireland last year but it’s great to have the op portunity to play in an event like this at home where fami ly, friends and club members will be in attendance”, said the primary school teacher who is currently teaching three days a week at Scoil Chriost Rí in Cloughleigh.Aideenwho received her ed ucation at Ennis CBS national

school, Rice College and Mary Immaculate College doesn’t see herself joining the profes sional ranks at the moment.

Asked if she will be ner vous playing with many of the World’s leading female golfers this week she replied “nerves are always a part of these oc casions”. Having played a key role in helping Lahinch to win three Irish senior cup titles, she is well used to pressure sit uations in golf.

With the support of a big fol lowing from within Clare golf, Aideen can be relied upon to provide them with plenty to cheerHavingabout.participated in the practice rounds on Monday and Tuesday and the Pro-Am on Wednesday, she is all set to play alongside a field that includes Cavan’s Leona Magu ire who is currently making a name for herself in the world field of ladies professional golf. All her supporters will be cheering her on and hoping that she will be amongst the leading 60 players that will make it through to the final two days play on Saturday and Sunday.

tiesQuarter-finalconfirmed MCMAHONPÁRAIC

paraic@clareecho.ie

ACTION is to heat up in the local gaelic foot ball scene with quarter-final draws held for the Clare SFC, Junior A and B championships with the semi-final pairings known in the intermedi ateClareabbeychampionship.was the venue for Monday eve ning’s draw which now ratchets up the anticipa tion levels in the race for the Jack Daly.

North Clare rivals Ennistymon and St Breck an’s will go toe to toe in a fortnight. It will be a repeat of their 2020 quarter-final which St Breckan’s secured victory in, the scoreline fin ishing 0-11 0-08 in their favour.

Cratloe and Kilmurry Ibrickane will meet in championship for the eighth time in eight years. A fascinating rivalry has developed between the two clubs at senior level for the better part of a decade and it will be renewed in all its glory for their knockout clash.

Defending champions Éire Óg have been paired against the only side to defeat them in last year’s championship, Clondegad. The Ennis side topped a competitive group and are high ly fancied by many pundits to retain the title. Clondegad overcame St Joseph’s Doora/Bare field in a play-off on Sunday to advance to the lastLissycaseyeight.

were made a seeded team after their name was pulled from the draw of the sec ond placed sides. Their reward is a meeting with intermediate champions Corofin who finished third in Group One, this was initially intended to have five sides and thus it had been already decided that three teams would emerge from theFollowinggroup.

Shannon Gaels launch appeal after penalties exit to Kildysart

AN APPEAL has been lodged by Shannon Gaels following their exit from the Clare IFC.

It took sudden death in a penalty shootout to separate Kildysart and Shannon Gaels in Sunday’s quar ter-final with Emmet McMahon net ting the winning penalty to send last year’s beaten finalists through to the semi-finals.McMahon scored the first and last penalty for the winners. Luke Mc Grath, Rory McMahon and Conor Hassett also hit the target for the three-time intermediate champions. A miss from Brian Eyers saw the tie decided via sudden death.

Aaron Malone Smyth had two pen alties saved for the Gaels who saw Fergal Kenny, Tomás Cleary, Darra gh Bohannon and Eoin Keane hit the back of the However,net.itemerged following the game that two of the Kildysart penal ty takers, Rory McMahon and Conor Hassett had not featured in extra time yet took spot kicks.

Speaking to The Clare Echo on Tuesday night, Shannon Gaels man

ager, Michael Crehan said they were awaiting the submission of referee Pat Keane’s report to the County Board before making their next move.

On Wednesday, Shannon Gaels formally lodged an appeal with the County Board. “I can confirm that Shannon Gaels have lodged an ob jection to Kildysart introducing six substitutes in extra time which is there more than the allowed num ber,” secretary of Shannon Gaels, David O’Connell told The Clare Echo

With the appeal only lodged, no date for a hearing has been set. However, as per GAA guidelines, the Shannon Gaels hearing will have to take place within three days and Clare GAA officials are hopeful to convene a meeting before the week end.A potential delay to the Clare IFC is on the cards as a result with the possibility of a replay one outcome if Shannon Gaels are successful in their appeal, the hosting of such a fix ture could push the semi-finals back by two weeks.

a weekend of surprises in the Clare IFC, the picture is clearer with only four teams left standing. Cooraclare and Ennistymon will meet for the second time in this year’s campaign while the other last four clash pits O’Currys against Kildysart.

Clare Senior Football Quarter-FinalsChampionship

(to be played on the weekend of October 1st/2nd)

Éire Óg v Clondegad

Lissycasey v Corofin Ennistymon v St Breckan’s Cratloe v Kilmurry Ibrickane

Clare Intermediate Football Championship Semi-Finals (to be played on the weekend of October 1st/2nd)

Kildysart v O’Curry’s Cooraclare v Ennistymon

Junior A Football Championship Semi-Finals (to be played on weekend of October 1st/2nd) Kilmurry Ibrickane v Killimer St Senan’s Kilkee v Liscannor

Clare Junior B Football Quarter-FinalsChampionship

Corofin (1) v Parteen

Ennistymon v St Joseph’s Miltown

Éire Óg v Wolfe Tones

Cooraclare v Corofin (2) or Michael Cu sacks

l BEST PUTT FORWARD: Aideen Walsh at Dromoland Golf Course ahead of the Irish Open Photo: James Crombie / Inpho

Shannon Gaels midfielder, Darragh Bohannon Burren Eye Photography

CLARE SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMP'SHIP RELEGATION PLAY-OFF

SFC TOP SCORER

GARY BRENNAN has moved to second spot in MD My ClubShop.ie / The Clare Echo’s top scorer award.

Ex Clare captain Gary has been a mainstay within the Clondegad side throughout his playing career and the St Flannan’s Irish and PE teacher is at the heart of their run to the quarter-finals.

Scores in the championship only are included in the race to become top scorer with teams in the relegation and senior b competitions not included thus eliminating Ciaran Downes, David Tubridy and Cormac Murray from contention.

1. Gavin Cooney (Éire Óg) 2-16

Relief for dogged Doonbeg

FACTFILE

DOONBEG Frees For: 28 (9/14/3/2)

Wides: 7 (5/2/0/0)

Scores from Play: 2-12

Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: David Tubridy (0-10 7f)

Own Kick-Outs won: 21 from 29 (72%)

MILTOWN Frees For: 20 (7/9/2/2)

Wides: 14 (7/3/4/0) Scores from Play: 1-8

Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Eoin Cleary (0-8 5f 1’45)

Own Kick-Outs won: 22 from 28 (79%)

REFEREE: Jim Hickey (Cratloe)

just delighted that we’re still alive at senior.”

MARTIN FLYNN, MILTOWN MANAGER:

“We showed great character in the second half as we were behind several times and just kept fighting and fighting and in the end were relieved to get it to extra-time. But unfortu nately they just seemed to have the legs on us in extra-time and we just didn’t perform while Doonbeg did and got the scores, and you can’t fall five or six points behind in extra-time and expect to win it.

JOHN KEANE, DOONBEG MANAGER:

“I’m absolutely delighted and relieved as well. I’m thrilled for the lads because since we’ve met them last February, they’ve worked so hard all year and everything that we’ve asked of them, they’ve given wholeheartedly.

“Thank God, the lads had it in the legs there in extra-time to get the scores and get us over the line. We weren’t prepared to sit back and

hope things would happen, we decided that we had to go after the game.

“The players have been fantastic for us but hard work can only bring you so far and you need a bit of luck too but I felt that at times this year that we didn’t get that bit of luck. The performances were encouraging but perhaps we lacked the luck to get us over the line.

"For the moment, it’s game over and we’re

“It’s do-or-die now, we know exactly what we’re facing so we just have to pull up our socks and be ready for an other massive battle. We’re fully aware that we’ll get abso lutely nothing soft from Kilmihil either so we’ve two weeks now to put our heads down”.

Experience on Clondegad side

FACTFILE

CLONDEGAD

Frees For: 19 (10/9) Wides: 5 (4/1)

Scores from Play: 1-10

Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Gary Brennan (0-9 5f) Own Kick-Outs won: 8 from 11 (73%)

ST JOSEPH’S

Frees For: 18 (7/11)

Wides: 3 (2/1)

Scores from Play: 0-6

Spread of Scorers: 7 Top Scorer: Tom McDonald (0-2 1f) Own Kick-Outs won: 17 from 20 (85%)

REFEREE: Barry Keating (Lissycasey)

MARTIN BRENNAN, CLONDEGAD MANAGER:

“It’s great to be finally in a quarter-final. We would have liked to have been there a little bit sooner but we did what we had to do today. We probably had a little bit of age advantage over that St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield team today and I think that bit more experience showed and also the hard group we came out of helped us

“They’retoo. [Doora/Barefield] are a good foot ball team and it’s a team that will be around for a good few years so we’re just happy to have gotten over this hurdle.

“I thought we played some decent football today. I feel we controlled the game in most aspects and some of our big lads adapted and played different roles and we have to build on that again and get better for the next day.

“We had a good few injuries today and were

trying to mind lads on the field so we’re just delighted to get through this and be preparing for a “[It’squarter-final.fouryearssince our last quar ter-final appearance] but there’s so little between the teams. Last year the lads couldn’t buy a bit of luck and this year we got a little bit of luck in matches and won by one and two points so most of the teams are very close and you’re not guaranteed any thing."

DONAGH VAUGHAN, DOORA/ BAREFIELD MANAGER:

“We’re very disappointed as we feel that we didn’t do ourselves justice to day. Fair play to Clondegad though, they pretty much controlled the game from ten minutes in and we found it very hard to break them down.“We tried subs and everything to try and thingsatsimplythatthetoday.

It’s hard to put your finger on exactly why that was, we will have to sit down and look at it again.

“Overall has been a tough campaign but yet a learning one and I know that there’s a lot more

Doonbeg 2-19 St Joseph's Miltown Malbay 1-16 (AET) Venue: Cooraclare Compiled by Eoin Brennan

Eamonn Tubridy holds off Kieran Malone Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Clondegad 1-15 St Joseph's Doora/Barefield 0-08 Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis Compiled by Eoin Brennan

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Brian McNamara holds onto possession Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Claire McMahon has been crucial

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Tony and Marianne win Woodstock President's prizes

by SEAMUS HAYES

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: President Ollie McNamara’s prize was played for at Woodstock at the weekend and resulted in victory for Tony Neville (15) on a score of 42 points. He won on a countback from Brandon O’Connell (25) who also had 42 points. In third spot with 41 points was Paul O’Shea (26) with fourth spot filled by Niall Reynolds (14), also with 41 points. Brian Gilligan (3) won the gross with 36 Categorypoints1 (0-13) was won by David Mc Laughlin (10) with 42 points. David White (17) won category 2 (14-19), also with 42 points while Sean Howard (20) won category 3 (20 +) with 40 Mariannepoints.McGough won the past president’s prize with 43 points. The leading junior was Sean Crowe with 36 points while the guest’s prize was won by Tom Coffey.

The president’s prize to the ladies was won by Marianne McGough with 43 points from Margaret Ann Killeen with 36 points. In third spot was Eleanor Miniter, also with 36 points followed by Niamh O’Regan with 35 points.

Aine Burke won the front nine with 19 points while Ann Kilker won the back nine, also with 19Thepoints.9hole competition was won by Hilary Hannon with 16 points.

The competition this weekend at Woodstock will be the Masters, a stableford competition off the white markers.

The top 30 and ties in the golfer of the year will qualify for the Masters and they will be con firmed after the two matchplay finals this week. There will be a club singles for those not com peting in the Masters.

Last week’s open singles at Woodstock was won by Ray Keogh (7) from Ennis with 46 points. Another Ennis member, Colin Ryan (7) was second with 39 points with Alan Markham (6) in third spot with 37 points.

Willie Thompson (23) won the September medal with 67 nett. He had two strokes to spare over Mike O’Malley (18). John McBride (13) was third, also with 69 while David Moloney (13) finished fourth and he also returned 69 nett. Jason Considine (2) won the gross with 74.

Steve Lahiffe (18) won the September 14 open singles with 44 points from Andrew Mc Gloin (9) with 40 points with third spot filled by Jason Dormer (6) with 39 points. Tony Cleary (scratch) won the gross with 36 points. The mid week open singles has concluded for the season ENNIS GOLF CLUB:

Last week’s men's Cancer Alliance 18 hole stableford competition at Ennis was won by Suzanne Deane (17) with 37 points. Patricia Moroney (19) won division 1 with 35 points. Rose Enright (24) won division 2 with 36 points while Joan Cullinane-Coote won category 3 with 34 points.

The overall winner of the 9 hole stableford competition was Patrice Ryan (18) with 20 points. Mary Nagle (13) won division 1 with 16 points, Mary Walshe (17) won division 2 with 15 points while Patricia O’Reilly (26) won divi sion 3 with 17 points.

Holly’s Pharmacy sponsored last week’s com petition for the winners of front and back 9 open days at Ennis. Maureen Moloney (36) and Eileen Holly (36) won the front 9 competition with 19 points while the back 9 winners were Mary Woulfe (26) and Patrice Ryan (32) with 21Gerrypoints.O’Connor (22) won the men’s singles competition at Ennis at the weekend with 44 points. He had two to spare over Raymond Power (22) with Jim Casey (23) a further two

back in third spot. James Casey (13) was fourth and he also had 40 points. The gross was won by Martin Moran (4) with 36 points.

The category winners were Diarmuid Meere (8) with 40 points, Jason Gallagher (18) with 40 points and Jim Horgan (24) with 39 points.

Liam Pyne (7) won Friday’s open singles with 40 points from Fan Downes (15) with 38 and Tim Scanlon (22), also with 38.

Damon Murphy and Tony McInerney won the Tuesday fourball with 35 points from Steve and Enda Burns with 34, Michael Ball and Padraig McNicholas, also with 34, with fourth spot filled by Pat Murphy and Ronnie Guin naane with 33 points.

The various 2021 matchplay competitions at the club have concluded. The Knox Cup was won by Noel Normoyle from Flan Lyons with Noel Kenny and Dave Kennelly the beaten semi finalists.GaryTyrell won the Koley Cup from Damon Murphy. The Cyril Walsh fourball matchplay was won by Cian Guilfoyle and Aaron Landy from Noel Normoyle and John McNamara. The beaten semi-finalists were Pat G McIner ney, Gerard O'Brien, David Rushe and Brian O'Gorman.The2022 competitions have also been com pleted with Padraig McNicholas winning the Knox cup beating Frank Gormley in the final. The beaten semi-finalists were Darragh Mur phy and Sean Myatt.

John Murphy won the Koey cup from Gerry Connellan with Pat Cuddy and Seamus Bowe the beaten semi-finalists. The Abbey cup was won by Tommy Stack from John Galvin. Sen an Ryan and Ross McLoughlin won the Cyril

Walsh cup from Mark Geraghty and Jim Grif fin. The beaten semi-finalists were James Casey and John Earls/Eddie Glenny and Flan Lyons.

The annual hampers competition, sponsored by Ryan's Centra Ennis, will be moved from October 1st/2nd to October 15/16th to accom modate the late commencement of the hollow coring this month.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Last week’s men’s competition at Kilrush was a singles v par which was won by Anthony Gilmartin (19) with 7 up. He had two to spare over Tom O’Dea (41) who finish with 5 up as did third placed Sean Moran (22) and fourth

placed Michael Bolton (31). John M. Cuggeran(12) won category 1 with 2 up, Pat Shannon (17) won category 2 with 3 up and John Robinson (22) won category 3 with 3 up.In the lades competition sponsored by Bibi’s Fashions, the winner was Jean Lorigan (29) with 36 points from Miriam Saunders (28) with 35 points with Joan O’Malley (21) in third spot with 35 points, Claire Pyne (22) won category 2 with 34 points and Edel Crowley (30) won cat egory 3 with 35 points. The twelve hole winner was Hanora O’Dea Kilkenny with 29 points.

GORT GOLF CLUB:

The men’s competition at Gort last weekend was a singles stableford which was won by PJ. McAllen (10) with 44 points. Gerard Niland (6) won category 1 with 41 points, Colm Moylette (16) won category 2 with 41 point and Joseph Nugent (39) won category 3 with 38 points. The gross was won by David Quirke (2) with 35 points.Inthe ladies competition the winner in cat egory 1 was Ann Jordan (18) with 36 points. Maureen Brennan (22) won category 2 with 32 points, Patricia Wynne (38) won category 3 with 27 points while Bernadette Burke (47) won category 4 with 34 points.

SIXMILEBRIDGE GOLF SOCIETY: Adam Merriman was the winner of the Six milebridge society outing to Newcastle West on Saturday, Conor Murphy was second followed by Alan Murphy and Michael O’Halloran while the nines were won by Colin Murphy and Chris Watson.

l PRESENTATION: Ennis Golf Club Golfer of the Year 2022 Martin O'Neill pictured with Captain Frank Gormley

Harvey33Cullinan’s

Ireland shot for Hayes MCMAHONPÁRAIC paraic@clareecho.ie

NEWMARKET Celtic's Eoin Hayes has been in cluded in an 18-man Irish squad that faces Northern Ireland in a double header over the coming week.

Striker Hayes is the only Clare representative in the Republic of Ireland’s ama teur squad. The Newmar ket-on-Fergus native has been one of the standout

junior soccer players in the county for over a decade and has remained a con stant part of the national setup for the past six years in the UEFA Re gions Cup.

In 2019, Eoin was named FAI Junior Inter national of the Year while he was an integral part of Donie Gar rihy's side when Clare claimed two Oscar Traynor titles. He is captaincurrentlyofthe

Paddy Purcell managed Newmarket Celtic A. Gerry Davis’ side took on Northern Ireland at Strange more Park last night with the return fixture set for Whitehall on SeptemberWednesday,28,withkick-offat7.45pm.

Newmarket Celtic fundraiser

ON SATURDAY last, Newmarket Celtic F.C held their annual summer fun day which also coincided with the launch of the next phase of the club’s development with plans firmly in place for a new clubhouse.

Newmarket Celtic has been a leading club in Clare soccer since its foundation in 1968 and provides a fantastic facility & outlet to the surrounding community catering for all age groups from Academy to Adult as well as underage girls teams. Our current facilities consist of two playing pitches, training areas and Astro Turf training pitch with the atten tion of the next stage of development turning to a new clubhouse.

The new planned clubhouse will provide for an all-inclusive state of the art facility as the club continues to grow. Having benefited from the recent Sports Capital Grant announcements, the club has now launched its first fundraiser towards the construction costs of the new clubhouse where they are running a prize draw called “Strike it Lucky with Newmarket Celtic” with a chance to win €10,000. Entry ticket’s for the draw costs €100 with tickets limited to 500 entries and the lucky winner being announced on Christ mas Week.

Crotty among winning Clare owners in Limerick

by MICHAEL MAHER

CLARE greyhound owners are enjoying great success in Limerick of late with Mary Crotty of O’Briensbridge in the winners enclosure twice in the past week.

On Saturday at Galway Greyhound Stadium, the rich vein of form for Ste phen Murray's kennel continued when the ever-consistent Killballyowen Boy owned by Sean O’Riordan, a son of Laughil Blake and Bright Ella, finished strongly to notch career win number 6 in an A2 550 graded contest. The winning time was 30.56 (Rated .20 slow).

There was an eye-catching victory for My Mucker who is owned by Thomas and young Oisin O’Connor from En nistymon following on from his previous week’s success, this ever-improving son of Rising Brandy and Drahbeg Princess recorded a career best in 29.13.

On Thursday last, there were four Clare victories at Limerick Greyhound Stadium. Getting the Banner roar going was Varra Tilly for Joe Collins from Par teen, a daughter of Scolari me Daddy and Gulleen Glory she led from trap to line to notch a third career win in 29.55.

Next up in the winner’s enclosure was the consistent Inislosky Jasper for Mary Crotty of O’Briensbridge, a son of Droopys Roddick and Cailin Pol, he claimed a 10th career victory in 29.54.

Amys Jack produced a fine perfor mance for Tulla trainer Donie Duggan with a trap to line success in 28.88, this was a second career win for this son of Skywalker Rafa and Notimetotalk.

And Snuggie Archie kept the Newmar ket-on-Fergus duo of Myles Cummins and Breda Casey's recent good run in tact, breaking smartly this son of Paddy’s Magic and Miles Girl led all the way to claim his seventh career win in 29.20.

Saturday last in Limerick, the firstround heats of the Limerick & Clare GOBA A4 525 yards stakes commenced, in heat three, Vedfield Lionman caught the eye with his 28.83 performance for Julie O’Sullivan and Fiadh Murphy from Tulla, a second win in a row for the son of Ballymac Bolger and Clear Mountain.

On Sunday night in Limerick, there were 4 Clare winners out of the 12 races on offer. In race one Shug Avery claimed the honours once more for Myles Cum mins and Breda Casey, despite breaking slowly, this daughter of Droopys Cain and Portdrine Queen, finished strongly to get up at the line in 29.54 to record her 10th career success.

In race two, Mary Crotty had Inislosky Tally in fine fettle and this daughter of Tally Ho Lee and Crotty’s Act led all the way to land the spoils in 29.31, this was Tally’s fifth career success.

Approaching his fifth birthday, Joe Be Slick notched his 17th success for Coor aclare’s Tommy Gallagher, son of Tully murry Act and Ballykett Lady, his winning time was 29.70 for an A4 graded contest.

Cascade Phantom after two successful nights out at Galway, made the trip To Tralee on Friday last and duly obliged in 28.94 for Ballyea’s Jack Browne.

return from Sheffield Utd has strengthened Newmarket Celtic Photo by Natasha Barton / CDSL

PLANNING

CLARECARROWKEELCOUNCILCOUNTYEAST,INAGH,CO.CLARE

Take Notice that Ted Wynne intends to ap ply to the Planning Authority for Reten tion Planning Per mission to retain the construction of a cof fee takeaway structure together with ancillary site works and services including signage at Carrowkeel East, In agh, Co. Clare. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy at the Offices of the Planning Author ity during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in rela tion to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the pre scribed fee within the period of 5 weeks be ginning on the date of receipt by the Author ity of the application.

or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARECOUNCILCOUNTY 5 NEW ENNISTYMON,COTTAGES,CO.CLARE,V95A4X

8

Take notice that Sara and Denis Barry in tend to apply for per mission to RETAIN the existing Garage on site and PERMISSION to extend the existing dwelling house & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning applica tion may be inspect ed or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours.

ty of the application.

CLARE POINT,HOUSE,SPANISHCOUNCILCOUNTYPOINTSPANISHCO.CLARE

CLARE TUAMGRANEY,COMMUNITYCOUNCILCOUNTYRAHEENHOSPITAL,CO.CLARE

CLARECLONBRICK,COUNCILCOUNTYKILKISHEN,CO.CLARE

CLARE CHURCHCOUNCILCOUNTYROAD,KILKEE,CO.CLARE,V15N597

Take note that Oliver Frawley, intends to apply to Clare County Council for Planning Permission to retain the existing one-bed room studio apart ment and associated services at the above address. The planning application may be in spected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or ob servation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning author ity on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or obser vations will be consid ered by the planning authority in making a decision on the appli cation. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to

A submission or ob servation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks be ginning on the date of receipt by the authori ty of the application.

CLARE MOYRIESK,COUNCILCOUNTYQUIN,CO.CLARE,V95YV57

Take notice that Grainne O’Brien and Adrian Boyle intend to apply for permission to revise the plans pre viously granted under reference P21/1179, providing additional first floor area, dor mers to the roof, add ing a carport, chang ing the lean to roof to the gable to a flat roof and altering the fenes tration & all other as sociated site and ancil lary works at the above address. The planning application may be in spected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or ob servation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks be ginning on the date of receipt by the authori

Take notice that Ar mada Hotel Holdings Ltd intends to apply to the Planning Author ity of Clare County Council for planning permission for devel opment at Spanish Point House, Span ish Point, Co. Clare which is a Protected Structure. The devel opment will consist of a 20sqM single storey Porch extension to the west/side, and replace an existing window with a door to the east/ courtyard side of the Kitchen; a 5sqM single storey Porch exten sion, replace existing door with window, form new fire escape door within existing window opening, and covered canopy area all to the west/ court yard side of the de tached outbuilding; change of use 20sqM of part of existing bed room accommodation as visitor toilets; retain existing 16.5sqM sin gle storey extension to the rear/ north; retain existing canopy in the courtyard; retain sin gle storey bay window 5sqM to the south/ front of the detached outbuilding, and re tain the timber clad ding as installed to the former Marian Way; additional car park ing and extend exist ing sewage treatment plant capacity to ser vice increased intensi ty of use of the overall development. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public open ing hours and that a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

We, the Health Ser vice Executive intend to apply for retention for development on the grounds of Raheen Community Hospi tal, Tuamgraney, Co Clare. The develop ment consists of the construction of 9m2 extension within an existing courtyard to support existing Hos pital Kitchen. Room to accommodate new wash-up space. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Author ity during its public opening hours and a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

CLARE ISLANDMAGRATH,COUNCILCOUNTYCLARECASTLE,CO.CLARE

Take notice that Sinead Concannon intends to apply to the planning authority for permis sion to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sew age treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public open ing hours and that a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

Permission is sought to partly demolish, alter, extend and ren ovate existing dwell ing house, construct detached domestic garage, including all ancillary site works and services at above

Applicants:address. Martin & Orla McMahon

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

CLARECO.COROFIN,COUNCILCOUNTYCLIFDEN,CLARE

I, John Shannon, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning permis sion to construct a new detached single storey dwelling house, new site entrance, waste water treatment sys tem, percolation area, well and all ancillary site works at Clifden, Corofin, Co.Clare. The planning applica tion may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea sonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the planning authority during its public open ing hours and that a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the 5 weeks be ginning on the date of receipt by the authori ty of the application.

Take notice that Espresso Bar on Wild Atlantic Way Lim ited are applying to Clare County Coun cil for planning per mission for change of use of existing vacant commercial unit to a restaurant/café in corporating takeaway, external seating, and canopy along with all associated works at the above address. This development is located in Protected structure RPS Number 858 (Quay Mills). The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Coun cil during its public opening hours and a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CAPPA,COUNCILCOUNTYKILRUSH,CO.CLARE

CLARELISSYCASEY,COUNCILCOUNTYCO.CLARE

Take notice that Talty Stores Ltd is apply ing to Clare County Council for planning permission for the change of use of offic es granted under P15229 to a GP Surgery, and planning permis sion for an extension to the existing retail unit to incorporate a pharmacy unit, relo cation of existing toilet block and retention permission for exten sion granted under P15-229 along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Coun cil during its public opening hours and a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE QUAYMERCHANTSCOUNCILCOUNTYBUILDING,DRIMNA,KILRUSH,CO.CLARE

Take notice that Trac ey Nolan and Gary Moen are applying to Clare County Coun cil for planning per mission to construct a new dwelling house, access road, boundary wall, new entrance, private garage, with connection to water & sewerage facilities along with all associat ed works at the above address. The planning application may be in spected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare Coun ty Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the author ity in writing on pay ment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CAPPA,COUNCILCOUNTYKILRUSH,CO.CLARE

Take notice that Jo anna McNulty is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission for the construction of 4 dwelling houses incorporating garages, new entrance and ac cess road, connection to water and sewerage facilities along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reason able cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Coun cil during its public opening hours and a submission or obser vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

PrayerAnniversary

In Loving Memory of Pauline (nee O’ Connell) of Quingardens, Quin, who died on Sept. 27th 2021.

“Your life was one of kindly needs, Sincere and true in heart and mind, Beautiful memories left behind.”

Lovingly remembered by her husband Michael, sons Seamus and Conor, daughters-in-law, precious grand children, brothers, sister, cousins and her many Anniversaryfriends.Mass in St.Mary’s Church, Quin on Sunday, Sept 25th at 11am. Rest in peace Pauline

Recent Deaths

Rafferty, Rohan Carron, Clare

Date of Death: Tuesday 20th September 2022

Dooley (née Nugent), Mary Feakle, Clare

Date of Death: Tuesday 20th September 2022

Hannon, Patrick

Newmarket-on-Fergus Clare

Date of Death: Monday 19th September 2022

O’Connor (née Corry), Brid Cranny, Clare

Date of Death: Monday 19th September 2022

Flynn, Michael Miltown Malbay, Clare

Date of Death: Sunday 18th September 2022

Coffey (née Browne), Ann Ennis, Clare

Date of Death: Sunday 18th September 2022

Downes, John Kilrush, Clare

Date of Death: Sunday 18th September 2022

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour. (Mention Favour)

Take it dear Heart of Jesus, And place it within Your own broken heart

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise Publication.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour. (Mention Favour)

Take it dear Heart of Jesus, And place it within Your own broken heart

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise Publication.

O’Leary, William (Willie) Ennistymon, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 17th September 2022

Quinlivan, James (Jim) Ballynacally, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 17th September 2022

Kiely, Joseph (Joe) Kilrush, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 17th September 2022

Reynolds (née Shannon), Teresa Lahinch, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 17th September 2022

O’Gorman, Michael Kilrush, Clare

Date of Death: Friday 16th September 2022

McNamara, Micháel Tuamgraney, Clare

Date of Death: Friday 16th September 2022

Reynolds (née Shannon), Teresa Lahinch, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 17th September 2022

Shanahan, Willie Shannon, Clare

Date of Death: Friday 16th September 2022

Keane, Frank Ardnacrusha, Clare

Date of Death: Thursday 15th September 2022

Pettigrew, Canon Stanley Tuamgraney, Clare

Date of Death: Thursday 15th September 2022

Nolan, Don Newmarket-on-Fergus, Clare

Date of Death: Thursday 15th September 2022

CLUNE Pauline (1st Anniversary)

The Clare Echo Quiz

SHANNON AIRPORT QUIZ

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

Newmarket-on-FergusSixmilebridge,Shannon,

6 Shannon Airport has the longest runway in Ireland, what length is it? 3,200m3,100m,3,000m,

7

The first passenger aircraft land ing occurred at Shannon Airport in what year?

2

19411940,1939,

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

NewBoston,York WashingtonCity,

4 What year did the first sched uled commercial flight pass through Shannon Airport? 19451944,1940,

5 Who was the first US President to fly into Shannon Airport?

Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower, John F. Kennedys

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

Michael ‘Gazzy’ Collins, Joe SeanSheridan,McNamara

8 The world’s first Duty Free shop opened in Shannon Airport in what year? 19601955,1947,

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

Syl JohnBrendanO’Connor,O’Regan,Crowe

10Which tourist attraction came into existence with the building of the runway at Shannon Airport?

Knappogue Castle, Vandeleur Walled Gardens, Bunratty Folk Park 3,200metres

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Last weeks answers

. m different colour on plane

. N missing on Shannon sign

. S missing on Paris sign

. Square different colour in background

. window missing on plane . stripes on sleeve missing of pilot . cone missing (right)

Winners Bridge Utd of the U16 Div 1 Lifford V Bridge Utd

Photo by Natasha Barton

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