The Clare Echo 25/05/23

‘Shock’ as elderly man hit by torch at Corofin protest

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ELDERLY Corofin man who sustained facial injuries at a demonstration in North Clare is to undergo an operation.

Misinformation that circulated online over the housing of asylum seekers or refugees in the townland of Scool between Corofin and Dysart led to the staging of a protest on Sunday evening where the man in his seventies suffered the injury. Well-known within the community of Corofin, the man tried to gain access to the road leading to the five-bedroom property that was reported to be welcoming up to 20 asylum seekers, when

he was stopped by men he didn’t recognise and subsequently hit with a torch.

Local sources have described the incident as “shocking” where after sustaining injuries to his face and eye, the man requested an ambulance which transported him to University Hospital Limerick (UHL).

He was released from hospital on Monday but is to undergo an operation today (Thursday), a close friend has confirmed to The Clare Echo.

l Children present at a counter-protest in Scool, a location which locals believed was going to be used to house asylum seekers or refugees photo by John Mangan

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The Town Hall Bistro

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

Shout it from the rooftops... for the next 100 days

Danielle O’Connor, Connie Caby,

Diarmuid McMahon,

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

McMahon supporting 100k in 30 days this June in support of the Marie Keating Foundation.

2023 is the fourth year of the event and to date over €4million has been raised for breast cancer services in Ireland, including the state-of-the-art Clinical Trial Centre in the new Breast Centre at Beaumont Hospital.

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

Diarmuid McMahon, MD of Sherry FitzGerald McMahon said: “We are thrilled to once again be part of this fantastic event. Sherry FitzGerald are the lead sponsor of 100K in 30 Days for the third consecutive year. There are 550 employees from over 100 Sherry FitzGerald offices around the country eagerly anticipating this event in June. Breast cancer has affected so many people, and we take pride in supporting The Marie Keating Foundation.” Organisers are calling on everyone to join the #pinkarmy and take part in the June event. Register at 100kin30days.ie

The Poets Corner Bar

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

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

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

Jason Pyne,

Christina Madden and Ann Daly of Sherry Fitzgerald

Photo by Natasha Barton

Three Clare charities to benefit from Cliffs of Moher fundraiser

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

MUCH needed funds will be raised for three Clare organisations during a Charity Fun Day at the Cliffs of Moher Experience this Saturday, May 27th.

Complimentary admission for the Cliffs of Moher by pre-booking for the day using the promo code ‘charityday23’ on the cliffsofmoher. ie website.

Sláinte an Chláir, Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) Clare Branch and Brothers of Charity Services Clare will all benefit from the fundraiser.

Geraldine Enright, Director of Cliffs of Moher Experience explained, “The upcoming fundraiser is as much as about raising local awareness of the three charities concerned as it is about generating funds to help them to deliver and invest in their services throughout Clare. The Cliffs of Moher Experience Charity of the Year programme, which was first initiated by staff in 2020, is part of the ongoing support and social responsibility activities that help the Cliffs of Moher Experience build bridges with the local community”.

She said, “We are encouraging people from across Clare to come along on Saturday May 27th to meet with some of the those delivering a range of vitally important services in communities

throughout our county, as well as enjoy the fun activities taking place

throughout the site”.

Leonard Cleary Director of Rural Development and West Clare MD, Clare County Council; commented, “Charity service providers have been impacted in recent years by a substantial decrease in fundraising activity which emphasises the even greater importance that events such as the upcoming Charity Fun Day are well supported”.

Brothers of Charity Services Ireland delivers a combination of day, residential, respite and training services to people with an intellectual disability and their families in communities across County Clare and is the largest such provider of services in Ireland today.

Kilnamona-based Sláinte an Chláir is a voluntary cancer support centre that helps people and their families affected by cancer. All services are provided free of charge.

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind (IGDB) is Ireland’s national charity dedicated to enabling people who are vision impaired and families of children with autism to achieve improved mobility and independence. In Clare, the charity is currently working with two puppy raisers, two brood holders, one Assistance Dog family and two Guide Dog owners. All services are provided free of charge.

One-way system will be considered in Feakle

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

A one-way system in Feakle could be on the cards in an effort to improve conditions for pedestrians.

A planned programme of works for the footpath between Feakle village and post office was requested by Cllr Pat Hayes (FF).

He said it was currently “in a state of disrepair, presenting hazards and inconvenience to pedestrians resulting in individuals walking on the road instead of the footpath. It is essential to address the poor condition of the footpath and provide a safe and suitable walking surface for residents and visitors to Feakle”.

Officials in the Killaloe Municipal District will develop a footpath upgrade proposal in the coming weeks, acting senior executive engineer Derek Troy confirmed. This will cover between the village and post office and also to Smyths and the Digital Hub.

Troy stated, “consideration on these routes will be given to improving pedestrian

and cycling permeability and safety. It is possible that works could involve the acquisition of or dedication of lands to achieve the required road and footpath widths or the introduction of a one-way system if required”.

This proposal is to be forwarded to Clare County Council’s road design section for inclusion in the countywide submission under the Active Travel programme.

Speaking at the May meeting of the Killaloe MD, Cllr Hayes stated, “it is one of the traversed routes where people go to post office, graveyard and Peppers”. He added, “The sooner we get a plan, I’m worried or don’t know, we will have to invest ourselves in some form of that, we can’t be depending on an application, we already have a priority list as it is”.

Conditions are “not up to present day standards,” Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) commented. “It would be great if it could be looked at, improve the safety between lower and upper Feakle”.

Cllr Pat Burke (FG) ques-

tioned what the local reaction would be to the introduction of a one-way system.

“That is a decision for a community, it is something for them to consider. Ultimately it is working in collaboration, there is a strong community council recently elected in Feakle, they have their views and Derek might meet them, all issues need to be looked at here,” Cllr Hayes responded. He acknowledged that the one way system in Mountshannon “works fairly well” and that a footpath at the current standard could not be justified.

Burke added, “the Mountshannon community were reluctant but now they would never go back to the way it was”.

All options will be assessed, the senior engineer stated. “We will look at all options, the footpath is narrow and so is the roadway, we will look at options of extending it, if both of those options failed we would look at the one way, it is up to Community Council and landowners to reach an agreement”.

lAt the announcement of the Cliffs of Moher Charity Fun Day this Saturday is (L-R) Geraldine Enright, Director at the Cliffs of Moher Experience; Theresa Murrihy. Chairperson of Sláinte an Chláir; Mary Kelly, Chair of the Clare Branch of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind; and Tom Mernagh, Volunteer for Irish Guide Dogs. Pixie and Elodie her puppy. (Elodie is currently in training)

COURT

Increased costs will not see Killaloe Bridge & Bypass project become like Children’s Hospital

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

INCREASED costs for the Killaloe Bypass, Shannon Bridge Crossing and R494 Upgrade will not see it mirror a replica to the National Children’s Hospital.

Construction began on the €44m road improvements scheme in November. The proposed Killaloe Bypass, Shannon Bridge Crossing and R494 Improvement Scheme will provide a western bypass of Killaloe, a new bridge crossing of the River Shannon and an upgrade of the existing R494 regional road from Ballina to the N7 at Bridhill. The entire scheme is approximately 6.2km and will cross the River Shannon approximately 1km to the south of the existing Killaloe Bridge and will cross the Kilmastulla River on the R494.

An update on its progress was issued to elected members of the Killaloe Municipal District at its May meeting in Scariff.

Benefits to the scheme will ‘far outweigh the short-term pain’ experienced regarding traffic delays in the area, senior engineer in Clare County Council’s project management office, Seán Lenihan stated.

Referencing the “Green Party agenda,” he said when putting forward the case they had to outline benefits not just on journey time savings but benefits for Active Travel, pedestrian and cycling measures, a carbon reduction and linkages to the rail station.

Technical lead for RPS Consulting, Anthony O’Brien explained that the 6.2km scheme will be comprised of 3km of type three single carriageway and another 3km of widening existing carriageway with three roundabouts. There are thirteen culvert structures taking streams and land drains on the main road, he stated. The project affects over 100 landowners. 2024 remains the planned completion date for the Killaloe Bypass.

Expanding on the timeframes, Regional Director of Sisk, John O’Connor said “the back end of 2024” was the likely completion for the Killaloe Bypass and Shannon Bridge Crossing with March 2025 the target for the R494 upgrade. He said Sisk had a “busy, challenging programme” of works. He described access to marine craft as having “a very tight window”, before it is required for works in Valetta, Malta. “You can appreciate what costs there might be for that craft,” he said.

The Coolmeen man added that between the restrictions imposed by the Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI), the limited access to marine craft support and the time required for mobilisation and demobilisation, the timeframe was “very tight”. Mr O’Connor added that all partners and stakeholders had “de-risked a lot of design and

construction”. “That was the best decision for all partners, everyone benefitted from that,” he said. He added that flexibility around aspects of the project would be appreciated and that a key element was the exchange of material from Killaloe to Ballina, “it is a very busy season, it is going to get busy and very busy”.

Lenihan acknowledged the project had been held up for several years in the courts. “This is not a bread and butter job. It does come with complexities and we are delighted with the progress by Sisk”. He appealed to councillors to give their continued support, “We have confined timelines. We have to adhere to requirements, but departures are allowed. We may well be asking councillors for support and asking you to speak to ministers with cheque books. The construction industry has suffered due to inflationary issues. In terms of contracts, the government is now opening the door to allow for price variations”.

He added, “There will be increased costs, it will be down to scopes and increased costs, I wouldn’t like to think that God forbid we’ll become like the Children’s Hospital, we’re mean and lean in Clare County Council”.

While works are ongoing, traffic can be managed better, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) maintained. “I won’t go into budgets, I look forward to the day it is opened, inflation has been felt, it is something that might end up in a year’s time when you come to the end, it is hugely invaluable to the whole of East Clare”.

Mayor of Clare, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) sug-

gested the local media be utilised better to advise of occasions that the road works could impact heavily on traffic.

Clarification was received by Cllr Pat Burke (FG) that the Killaloe Bypass will be the first of the projects to be completed and opened. He recalled, “I was first elected in 2009, I only elected a few months when we got a proposal for the drawings, we’ve all done our best at a political level, I accept what Seán has said about green agenda but main thing is reduction of commuter times, it was always the big one”.

Despite the time pressures voiced by personnel involved, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) was optimistic the project would be delivered on time. “This is a massive project for the Mid-West region, naturally enough there will be inconvenience. We’re working together to achieve a project which we thought for years wouldn’t happen, my belief is we will be ahead of time. It is great that some sections will be open ahead of others. There will be inconveniences”. He continued, “We don’t want to see something like the Children’s Hospital happen down here, with the contractors we have in place that won’t happen and we can work to have this project delivered before time”.

Senior planner with the Council, Brian McCarthy noted, “it is not just a transport project, an economic and tourism project”.

Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe MD, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) stated, “Prevention is always better than cure, this will be a huge asset for the whole area”.

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 30-year old ENNIS man’s decision to try to break into cars at the “Fort Knox-like” Ennis Garda Station car-park “makes no sense”.

At Ennis District Court, solicitor, Daragh Hassett said that Nathan Egan’s conduct on the night of 14th/15th of April last at the Garda Station “was like someone trying to break into a prison”.

Mr Hassett said that Mr Egan of Sandfield Court, Ennis had fallen back in with his peers and he had got “a pocketful of tablets”.

Mr Hassett said that prior to the night on April 14th/15th last, Mr Egan had been clean for about eight months and was recovering from a heroin addiction.

In the case, Sgt Louis Moloney said on the night of April14/15th, Mr Egan had tried to gain access to two parked cars in the Ennis Garda Station car-park between 11.50pm and 00.15am.

Sgt Moloney said that Mr Egan did gain entry to a third car in the car park where he stole €100 cash, a lady’s handbag, a bag containing lady’s clothes and a suitcase.

Sgt Moloney said that Mr Egan was arrested at the scene. Sgt Moloney said that all incidents were captured by CCTV and that when questioned in custody, Nathan Egan made admissions.

All the property stolen by Mr Egan was recovered. Sgt Moloney said that Mr Egan has 62 previous convictions including 19 for theft.

Judge Mary Larkin imposed a three month sentence suspending one month and imposed a three week sentence and backdated the sentences to April 15 when Mr Egan was brought into custody.

Mr Egan had pleaded guilty to trying to gain access to cars owned by Helen Costello and Aoife Bartley at Ennis Garda Station car park and stealing the items from the car belonging to Mairead Anderson in the same car-park.

Mr Hassett described Mr Egan as “a good young man”. Mr Hassett said that up to the incident, Mr Egan had been doing “fairly well” having had significant drug issues in the past.

Mr Hassett said that Mr Egan “had very little memory of what happened when he came around at Ennis Garda Station after the effects of the drugs had worn off”.

Cllr McGettigan slams government over 6,000 hospital cancellations

SINN Féin councillor Donna McGettigan has said that Clare’s government TDs cannot stand idly by while record waiting lists, record waiting times and record cancellations spiral out of control.

Cllr McGettigan was speaking as figures showed that there were 5997 cancellations across the UL hospital group, in the first four months of the year.

Donna called on the government TDs to support solutions to this crisis being brought forward by Sinn Féin health spokesperson David Cullinane TD this week. The Shan-

non based county councillor said, “Government TDs in Clare cannot continue to stand idly by while record waiting lists, record waiting times and record cancellations spiral out of control.”

“Figures released to Sinn Féin health spokesperson David Cullinane show that almost 6,000 patients had their much needed appointments cancelled until who knows when, in just four months, that is shocking. That includes 3464 in UHL and a further 308 in Ennis.

Yet UHL has some of the longest A&E wait times in the state.”

“Record hospital cancellations show that the government’s answer to health service chaos is shifting the burden from one area to another without solving any of the problems.”

“This is not a solution to the deepening crisis in our health service, which is at breaking point.

“The trolley scandal which Fine Gael pledged to end is now worse than ever. It has become a yearround threat to patient safety.

“The government has no plan to fix the health service. They are only making it worse. The longer Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil are in power,

the more this scandalous situation will continue to spiral out of control.”

“We need a serious multi-annual capacity plan, backed up by strategic workforce planning, to tackle the trolley crisis.”

“The fact is we also need 1,000 more hospital beds than we have now, yet the government has no plan to deliver them.”

“The Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly, has said he will produce a new plan for 1,500 beds over the next few years. This doesn’t come close to cutting the mustard - we need a plan for 2,500 beds accord-

ing to ESRI estimates.”

“The government has no plan to train the health workers we need to safely staff the health service.”

“The health service can be fixed but it needs a government and minister with the political will to do so. I call on all TDs to back our solutions to tackle this crisis.”

“A Sinn Féin government would drive reform, increase bed capacity, hold the health service accountable, and train and retain the healthcare workers we need to safely staff the health service.”

‘Car thefts at Garda station make no sense’

Former Scariff hotel set to house 77 refugees

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PLANS are progressing to accommodate 77 refugees in Scariff.

Works had been taking place at the site of the Lakelands Hotel in Scariff and now officials in the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth have confirmed plans for the facility for the first time.

The Clare Echo has obtained a memo from the Department which reveals plans to house 77 people in mixed configuration in Scariff.

Families, couples and single females will make up the total figure, The Clare Echo has learned. It is not yet clear if this will be comprised of Ukrainian families or asylum seekers.

The facility will open in June with more information to be issued prior to this.

Several queries have been issued by Clare’s Oireachtas members to the Department on plans for the former hotel in Scariff in the past fortnight.

Closed for over fifteen years, the Lakelands Hotel underwent refurbishment works in the last three years.

l The Lakelands Hotel in Scariff is set to house 77 refugees

Photo by John Mangan

Clonmoney celebrate opening new facility

Mother accused of attempting to kill girl awaits bed at Central Mental Hospital

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLONMONEY NATIONAL SCHOOL

was a hive of activity on Saturday morning as hundreds attended the official opening of a new Astro turf facility.

Pupils, parents, extended family members and plenty of politicians were in attendance as the ribbon was cut by Clare senior hurler John Conlon and former Clare dual star Carol O’Leary.

A joint venture between the school and Bunratty Cratloe FC, the facility will cater for the growing numbers at the school situated in the parish of Newmarket-on-Fergus but which has a catchment area drawing students from Shannon, Sixmilebridge and Cratloe.

At present, 209 students are enrolled in the primary school.

THE 46-year old mother accused of attempting to murder her eight year daughter is awaiting a bed at the Central Mental Hospital where she is due to undergo a forensic psychiatric assessment.

At Ennis District Court today, the woman appeared for the fifth time in court in connection with being charged with attempting to murder her daughter at temporary accommodation in Clare the two were staying at the time of September 27th last year.

The accused requires the services of a Russian interpreter for the court hearings and after the interpreter told her the content of the exchanges between Judge Alec Gabbett and the woman’s solicitor, Tara Godfrey in her case, the woman broke down and cried.

After Judge Gabbett was able to see the woman weeping via video link from the women’s wing at Limerick prison, Ms Godfrey told Judge Gabbett “remand in prison has been very distressing for her”.

Judge Gabbett told the court that the accused is awaiting a bed at the Central Mental Hospital under Section 15 of the Criminal Law Insanity Act.

Ms Godfrey said that her client is still waiting on the Book of Evidence in the

case and it is now 71 days since she has been charged. Ms Godfrey said that the Book of Evidence is required for a proper forensic psychiatric assessment at the time of the commission of the alleged offence to be carried out on her client.

Ms Goffrey said that there “is an urgency” attached to the case. Ms Godfrey said another problem she has in the case is that her client has an application for bail before the High Court but for the High Court to release her client on bail, it requires a report from the Central Mental Hospital.

Sgt Aiden Lonergan told the court that the case is being given "the highest priority”. Sgt Lonergan said medical reports have been received but have to be put in a statement format for the Book of Evidence.

The court previously extended the accused woman’s legal aid certificate to cover a forensic psychiatric report after Ms Godfrey stated that her client “had been in psychiatric in-patient treatment from September up to the date she was brought to the Garda Station so we have a chain of custody of my client since the alleged event”.

In the aftermath of the alleged attempted murder last September, the young girl’s condition was described as “critical” after she was allegedly stabbed multiple times at her accommodation. After the girl subsequently underwent emergency surgery at Crumlin Children’s Hospital a Garda spokesman said she was “out of danger”.

The accused was first arrested and brought to Ennis Garda Station for questioning on March 14th and brought before a special sitting of Ennis District Court the following day when she was charged.

The accused made ‘no reply’ after charge and caution.

Judge Gabbett remanded the woman in custody via video-link to appear again at Ennis District Court to June 14.

lCLARE’S BIGGEST FANS: Young students from Clonmoney National School line up to have thier jersey signed by star Clare hurler John Conlon

Photo by Joe Buckley

‘Accept and welcome them’ – Kilrush teen holds counter-protest in Inch

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A KILRUSH TEENAGER mounted a counter-protest at Inch on Thursday evening to show asylum seekers in Magowna House that they were welcome to the area.

Sixteen year old Brendan Ryan travelled with his father to Magowna House having viewed and read about the blockades and bollards that are in place at three different locations leading to the premises.

Since the arrival of 34 male asylum seekers last Monday evening, locals had blocked off access to Magowna House for persons who do not reside in the area until Sunday morning. Persons attached or involved with Clare Immigrant Support Centre have gained access to the facility.

Brendan and his father travelled to Inch and even managed to get a look inside the Magowna House which is currently not housing any asylum seekers as it remains without a fire certificate, instead the men are housed in three holiday homes on the premises.

On the conditions of Magowna House, Brendan commented, “We had a brief look inside, we sat in there and I was given coffee, I was talking to one of the people. I thought the house looked quite good, I only saw the guest area but I

thought it was quite good”.

Explaining his motiviation for coming to Inch, Brendan told The Clare Echo, “I saw a bit on RTÉ about people protesting about the asylum seekers, I read an article by The Irish Independent saying they were trying to block the rest of the asylum seekers coming here and I thought it was awful, I said I would come here and counter-protest to show the people some support”.

“When I heard they we were trying to block more refugees from coming I just thought that was really bad,” he stated.

Inch residents did not engage with Brendan when he attempted to share his views in a bid to find some common ground. “I tried to talk to some of them but I didn’t get anything out of them really”.

His message to the people of Inch was to accept the group of men that are now new to their community.

“Understand that they are people, seeking asylum is a human right, it is so wrong to deny them that, some of their complaints like that Inch is in the middle of nowhere but like we have nowhere else to put them. At the start of the year they were living in tents, there’s four walls and a roof here, I would say accept them, welcome them, my message is accept and welcome the asylum seekers”.

lBrendan Ryan outside Magowna House

Photo by John Mangan

Foley praises Minister over asylum seeker accommodation

INTEGRATION Minister, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) has been praised for his “personal and political leadership” by Minister for Education, Norma Foley (FF) in working to accommodate refugees and asylum seekers, writes Páraic McMahon

Much criticism has surrounded the communication and lack of information circulated to communities by the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth in advance of asylum seekers and refugees arriving.

This has been particularly evident in Inch where a bus-load of 34 men arrived to take up residence at Magowna House last Monday evening, five days after the local community first became aware that the Department intends to have 69 male asylum seekers living at the premises which have been closed since 2019.

Speaking in Shannon, Minister Foley defended Minister O’Gorman for not accepting a request from Inch residents to meet them to discuss their concerns regarding sewerage and the lack of a fire certificate. “It would be virtually impossible for him to travel to every community because in every community we are welcoming in people who come from abroad and coming in to difficult and challenging circumstances, if you look to our schools in particular you will see the fantastic manner in which these students are becoming part of the experience of the schools”.

Junior Minister, Joe O’Brien (GP) met with locals in Ennis on Thursday evening and confirmed a fire certificate would be issued in the next fortnight. Pressure is mounting on the Government on how they handle the ongoing issues in Inch. The stance taken by Minister O’Gorman can be replicated across the country, Minister Foley outlined. “I think we need to reflect and look at everything in the round. I think, in the round you can see how very well people have been received by communities and how well they have been welcomed into communities, I would always concede that there can be issues in specific areas, I think it is welcome that the issues have been flagged, Minister O’Gorman has made it clear that he is happy to engage on those issues and to engage with the residents and I think thati s right. We see right across the country

the work that is being done by community groups in terms of the spirit of welcome inclusion”.

Clare Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) had said their colleagues in Government, Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil of ‘throwing Minister O’Gorman and the Greens under the bus’ on this issue.

Accommodating refugees and asylum seekers is a matter for the entire Government, Minister Foley stressed. “This is a whole of Government approach. I want to acknowledge that in the first instance this whole of Government approach is being led by Minister O’Gorman, from my personal engagement with him and I’m sure I would reflect my colleagues as well, I think he is doing an excellent job, I think the commitment, personal and political leadership he has shown has been second to none, he is well supported by Government and the Government is determined to recognise this is a shared responsibility within Government and within society. On a personal and political basis, I think Minister O’Gorman is doing an excellent job”.

That a meeting took place with the Junior Minister showed “a willingness on all sides to look at it and find a pathway forward,” the Kerry TD believed.

She felt the overall stance on asylum seekers and refugees in Ireland was welcoming. “If you look across Ireland and at all the counties, nine out of ten times you’re seeing communities who have broadly welcomed and who have adopted many of the new people who have come into the communities, I see it myself travelling the length and breadth of the country, I see the extraordinary openness and willingness of communities to be open and welcoming of people from incredibly and traumatic difficult circumstances, in the main that is the widest reflection of who we are, it is important and behoves us all to work through those issues but I think when we look at anything, we look at it in the round and in its broadest context, I think in its broader context wider Ireland have been very positive in welcoming, endorsing and acknowledging those who come from very difficult circumstances and in this instance where there are individual circumstances and issues to be ironed out I think that is right and appropriate”.

Government not aware of plans to accommodate refugees in Scool despite protests

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A LARGE HOUSE in the townland of Scool will not be used to accommodate asylum seekers.

Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) has confirmed that the five bedroom property at the centre of the latest migrant protest will not be used to house refugees or asylum seekers.

Officials in the Department told The Clare Echo it was not aware of the property referred to and that it had not received an offer for it to come into use for such a purpose. Clare County Council also says it has received no formal application for the use of the dewlling under the ‘Ukrainian Offer A Home Scheme’.

Sides in favour and opposed to the housing of asylum seekers and refugees both protested in Scool situated between Corofin and Dysart this week. Up to 42 persons pitched themselves outside the property on Sunday evening including well-known figures in the Irish Freedom Party.

Detailed misinformation on social media was blamed by the Minister for the staging of the protest. “This is entirely as the result of misinformation

that’s been circulated on social media, detailed misinformation setting out indicative numbers, indicative genders”. He added, “We are not using the site that has been identified in Corofin. It’s never been offered to us and I can’t be clearer than that.”

Following initial reports that the property was set to be used for accommodating asylum seekers, locals had pitched themselves at a T-junction in Scool but had not cordoned off access to the road or formed a blockade on Monday evening.

Residents living in close proximity told The Clare Echo they were not opposed to asylum seekers living in Corofin at the property but felt the potential figure of 40 was not safe.

Twenty two members of the newly formed Clare Solidarity Network held a counter-protest on Monday evening where matters became tense as either side tried to put their views across.

Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) was in Scool as both groups were in the area, he told both parties that the situation needed to be de-escalated “so we don’t have any blockades”. He added, “information takes away the opportunity for people to say we didn’t know”. Assurances were offered by the Mount-

shannon man that no contract had been signed.

He condemned the attack on an elderly man, “people are entitled to object protest and have their voice heard, they are not entitled to attack anybody. It has to be condemned in the most forthright way”.

Lisdoonvarna’s Theresa O’Donohoe of the Clare Solidarity Network who was in Dublin as the counter-protest was held, stated, “We believe most

Inch residents vow to continue

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

BLOCKADES on the approach to Inch have been removed but locals continue to stage peaceful protests.

At a meeting of local residents in Kilmaley on Saturday evening, the proposals issued by Minister of State for Integration, Joe O’Brien (GP) were discussed. The Junior Minister had encouraged residents to remove the blockades and offered assurances that no further asylum seekers would be moved to Magowna House for a period of four weeks.

Warnings are understood to have been issued by An Garda Síochána to Inch locals that they would not be

allowed to continue blocking the public road.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Inch residents confirmed they were continuing to hold peaceful protests. “In response to our meeting with Minister O’Brien on Thursday last, our community group has decided to continue our peaceful protest at both ends of the Magowna Road. We welcome the engagement with the Minister over the past few days and for now we will remove the so-called blockade as he has requested. We remain convinced that this location is totally unsuitable for the purpose of asylum seeker accommodation. We look forward to

further discussions in the coming days. Inch community will protest at Magowna House Hotel”.

Locals remain on duty in Inch were peaceful protest signs have been erected. The protest remains set to continue with the Junior Minister due to return in three weeks.

For six days, locals had mounted blockades at Magowna Cross, Magowna House and Magowna Hill following the arrival of 34 male asylum seekers on Monday evening. The amount of men now based in Inch is believed to have dropped below 29.

Over the weekend, locals had told The Clare Echo

they feared it was not sustainable to continue with the blockades which saw residents stand at the three points on four-hour shifts.

Senator Martin Conway (FG) said, “While I acknowledge communities’ right to express concerns, it is not right that anybody’s movements should be restricted, impeded or stopped by any other party, and I see this move as a very positive sign and a direct result of the engagement that has taken place between community representatives, Government representatives and members of an Garda Síochána.”

l TENSE SITUATION: Sen Timmy

Dooley addresses protesters in Corofin

people in Clare are compassionate and want to help those fleeing persecution and war. Unfortunately, their voices have been drowned out and intimidated by those seeking to block asylum seekers from coming to the area. And now with this latest terrifying incident, we have seen that local people are in more danger from extremists than from asylum seekers. This shocking incident also appears to be another example of agitators infiltrating, or even

instigating, local protests, and creating and exploiting fear and hatred”.

Responding to Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) in the Dáil, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (FG) said efforts were ongoing to improve communications, informations and engagements with local communities. “We do acknowledge that in some cases it could have been better, I think in Co Clare that is was one of those places that it could have been better in the last few weeks”.

Corofin man injured during protest to undergo operation

AN ELDERLY Corofin man is to undergo an operation today (Thursday) after he was left hospitalised by persons opposed to the potential housing of asylum seekers in the locality, writes Páraic McMahon

Video footage surfaced over the weekend over a high volume of beds crammed into a vacant property in the isolated part of Scool between Dysart and Corofin with unconfirmed reports that this was set to house up to 40 asylum seekers, the garage on the property had also been renovated with beds put in there to increase the amount of men on site.

This led to a small protest taking place in Corofin en route to the property which was the location of the assault on Sunday evening.

The Clare Echo understands that a well-known local man in his seventies tried to gain access to the road on Sunday evening and did

not recognise the individuals he came across with two men stopping him from getting past. He had a torch shone in his face by individuals and tried to proceed past them and ended up being hit with the torch into the face. He sustained facial injuries which required stitches at University Hospital Limerick (UHL).

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána told The Clare Echo, “Gardaí are making enquiries into an alleged assault which occurred in Corofin, Co.Clare on Sunday night”. No formal complaint is understood to have been issued to the Gardaí.

An ambulance was requested by the man which transported him to UHL, he was released from hospital on Monday. Although he returned home earlier this week, the 72 year old is to undergo an operation on Thursday according to a close friend.

Photo by John Mangan

Ennis to represent Ireland in global ‘Communities in Bloom’ competition

ENNIS Municipal District and Ennis Tidy Towns have welcomed the selection of Ennis, as the Irish representative for the international ‘Communities in Bloom’ 2023 competition, in the ‘International Challenge’ category.

Crowned Ireland’s Tidiest Town in 2021 and Ireland’s Tidiest Large Urban Centre in 2022, Ennis will join winners from Britain, America, Japan, Comuni Fioriti from Italy, and other countries competing based on population categories.

The Communities in Bloom (CiB) vision is “to inspire all communities to enhance the quality of life and our environment through people and plants in order to create community pride”.

This competition is judged on the efforts and achievements of

the whole community, including Ennis Tidy Towns, Ennis Municipal District, businesses and institutions, citizens and community groups.

The evaluation is based on six criteria: community appearance; environmental action; heritage conservation; tree management; plant and

floral displays; and landscape.

Welcoming the news, Cllr Colleran-Molloy, Mayor of Ennis, said, “The competition and our nomination is a tremendous reflection of Ennis and its communities. The evaluation criteria cover multiple facets of our town and community

which we are happy to showcase. Representing Ireland on an international stage affords us a huge opportunity to promote Ennis.”

Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development and Ennis Municipal District, added, “Clare County Council’s vision statement puts

A night in honour of Martin Connolly

A TRIBUTE concert in honour of the great Martin Connolly will take place in Cois na hAbhna this Saturday as part of the Fleadh Nua.

Featuring the talents of Eileen O’Brien, Bobby Gardiner, Geraldine Cotter, Ritchie Dwyer, Mícheál O’Rourke, Maureen Glynn Ceili Band and more, an audience will be treated to a night of music and chat to remember the Killaloe native who sadly passed away in 2021.

In the early 1970s when Tradional music in Ireland was taking hold on the young population with the arrival of Planxty, De Danann and the Bothy Band, a young Killaloe box player was making waves on the trad scene.

Martin Connolly with his virtuosity on the accordion was blazing a trail with his accordion that has now lasted 50 years.

He was exciting to listen to as his wonderful rhythm coupled with his extraordinary finger-work inspired every box player who heard him play. His dark curly hair and darting eyes as he played would light up a room and generate great excitement in an audience.

He was at a young age a master of his craft and was a devoted admirer of Paddy O’Brien the Nenagh master and of course Joe Burke from Galway. It is fittng that we remember this iconic figure in Irish music who set a very high bar for adjudicators and teachers of this instrument.

Trad Music and trad musicians today in Clare and indeed around the world are in

a better place because of the influence of Martin Connolly and Ireland’s culture is richer because of his wonderful talent that he passed on to the next generation.

He was a perfectionist in every sense of the word and his passing aer a long illness has left a void in Clare music circles that will never be filled.

Martin was a one off and the night in Cois na Habhna, his family, his friends, his students and his music comrades will assemble to say “Thank you Martin” for being part of all their journeys in music.

great emphasis on sustainable communities. We strongly support community groups and the work they do to protect and enhance our environment, thus making Ennis a great place to live. Ennis Municipal District, along with community groups, is determined to showcase all that Ennis has to offer under the specific criteria.”

Cormac McCarthy, Chairperson of Ennis Tidy Towns, added, “We are delighted to be part of the Communities in Bloom team, bringing our expertise in biodiversity, sustainability, climate action, and community engagement to ensure the strongest possible entry. We look forward to welcoming the judges to Ennis in July and showcasing our town, our heritage, and our communities in action.”

Bahá’í convention

MEMBERS of the Bahá’í community from Clare attended the Irish Bahá’í national convention in University of Galway last weekend to consult about the community’s affairs and to elect their National Spiritual Assembly for the coming year.

The Bahá’í Faith does not have any clergy and the affairs of the community are managed by its members. In each area where Bahá’ís reside a 9-member local spiritual assembly is elected annually. There are three such assemblies in County Clare – Ennis, Shannon and East Clare. Delegates are elected locally to attend national convention and they, in turn, elect the National Assembly. There were four delegates from Clare at this year’s convention.

Bahá’í elections are very different from elections as we normally understand them. There are no nominations, no promotion of any individuals, no canvassing, no pre-election debates. The voters can vote for any adult members of the community they believe would be best suited to the role and they do not discuss their vote with anyone else.

“It is a unique system,” explains Madge Rainsford of Rosleven, Ennis, chairperson of the Ennis Local Assembly, “regarded more as a spiritual than political process”. Madge described the weekend as “a very positive event, with a great spirit throughout”.

One of those elected to the National Spiritual Assembly is a member of the County Clare Bahá’í community, Mr. Eoin Tynan-O’Mahony from Ennis. Pictured at the Convention are (l-r) Neda Shahidyazdani, Howard Kotoitubou, Mike Maguire, Eoin Tynan-O’Mahony, Maria Mc- Namara, Daniel Cunningham, Seán Ó hAnnracháin

Photo by John Mangan

l Pictured with the Mayor of Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, are representatives from Ennis Tidy Towns, Ennis Municipal District, and community groups

Martin Whyte’s 50th Anniversary in Lisdoon

THERE will be a Commemoration to mark the 50th Anniversary of Veteran Republican Martin Whyte at his graveside in Toovahera Church grounds, Lisdoonvarna at 2pm Sunday, May 28.

Martin Whyte joined the Republican movement as a boy during the Black and Tan war. He saw service right through the war against the Free State with the Mid-Clare Brigade IRA. He was interned in the Curragh in the 40s. On his release he returned to Clare to help reorganise the county. He contested a general election

for Sinn Féin in 1954 and campaigned for Séamus Sabhat (the brother of Seán South) in the Clare by-election of 1959.

Martin Whyte is described by those who knew him as being the backbone of the Republican movement serving loyally right up to his death in 1973. The Commemoration to mark Martin Whytes 50th Anniversary takes place at 2pm on Sunday 28th May. The guest speaker will be author and oral historian Dr. Tomás Mac Conmara. All are very welcome to attend.

Fond Farewell at Scoil Mhuire Ennistymon

SCOIL Mhuire Ennistymon has announced a special celebratory concert featuring the Scoil Mhuire Choir and special guests at the Parish Church Ennistymon on Thursday, June 1 at 7pm.

The date is especially poignant as it is the end of the academic year but also the final curtain for Scoil Mhuire as the three secondary schools in Ennistymon amalgamate next September. In celebration of this milestone, and to honour the school’s strong music heritage, dozens of former students are set to return to the stage to honour the school which gave them their first platform.

The concert will showcase the musical talents of all ages, from the current school choir to the successful 1980’s ballad group ‘Dolmen’ who appeared on RTE’s talent show ‘Screen Test’ 36 years ago and have reformed for the event. Well known soprano Catherine Marie Hegarty will travel from London to perform ‘O Mio Babbino Caro.’ Catherine, a past pupil, has performed in venues such as The Royal Opera House, London and Birmingham Symphony Hall and she credits Scoil Mhuire for providing her with a platform to pursue

her talents. The school’s rich history of Musical Theatre will be remembered as past performers return with a medley from ‘Les Miserables’ first performed 20 years ago. Other acts include Kate Daly, Theresa Garrihy, Maeve Curry, Caroline Kennedy, Therese McInerney, Áine O’Brien and Gráinne Curtin.

If it’s trad music that captures certain nostalgia, past pupils from the Kilfenora Céilí Band, the Howley sisters and a grúpa trad from the 1980’s will be sure to provide toe tapping entertainment. Ennistymon Parish Church, with its fine acoustics, has long been the venue of choice for Scoil Mhuire concerts and a night to be remembered is promised.

Principal Seosaimhín Uí Dhomhnalláin stated, “A well rounded education would be incomplete without music. Scoil Mhuire has always helped students cultivate a deep love and appreciation of music and we are delighted to welcome back so many talented students for this joyful celebration of song showcasing their breadth of talent.”

Tickets are available by contacting 065 7071224

Talty with her Transition Year Graduation Certificate at the St John Bosco Secondary School Awards night last Thursday night; (above) students collect their John Paul II faith achievement Awards on the night

Hunt donates farewell funds to charity

Two well known charities have become the beneficiaries of a plausible act of generosity on the ending of an era for one of the most popular hunts in the area.

The East Clare Farmers Hunt, whose membership and area of activity, is spread around the rural countryside on both sides of the Shannon has regrettably come to the end of an era.

Master of the Hunt, Paddy Kennedy summed up the situation in which they have regrettably found themselves in 2023, after very successfully hunted around many areas of North Tipperary and East Clare for decades.

“We have been unable to get insurance cover at any price and we couldn’t continue without adequate cover” he said.

“Unfortunately it has become the end for the hunt - we’ve had to disband” he added.

The Hunt had in excess of €5,000 in their funds and decided to divide the money equally between St Vincent de Paul and Trocaire.

Treasurer of the Hunt, Siobhan O’Gorman (Birdhill), presented cheques for in excess of €2,500 each to Rev Fr Dominic Meehan for Trocaire and Dave Lawlor, for St Vincent de Paul at the Community Centre, Birdhill.

Present also were, Paddy Kennedy, Master, East Clare Farmers Hunt, John O’Sullivan, secretary, Mary O’Mara, and Louis Kennedy and Mary Vaughan, St Vincent de Paul (Newport).

Dave Lawlor, thanked the Hunt Committee for their generosity and assured them how much the funds would benefit the continued work of the St Vincent de Paul society in being of assistance to families in need of help during these times of difficulty for many families.

Fr Meehan expressed thanks on behalf of Trocaire for the generous cheque.

The hunt has was founded 32 years ago and hunted over a large area of North Tipperary and East Clare each season since.

Hunt Master, Paddy Kennedy

explained that the situation of having to disband had arisen after their insurer based in the UK had, as well as others, withdrawn from providing cover in Ireland.

“Cover would probably have cost us about €20,000 for 2023 and we were willing to pay for it, because the members would support us, but the situation for this year was that we were unable to get insurance at any price” he said.

He said they had an excellent record for care and safety over the decades, but could not take the risk of continuing without adequate insurance cover.

“We always showed respect for the farmers over whose lands we hunted and I want to thank them for their cooperation over the years. We always maintained excellent relationships and any problem that arose would be dealt with immediately” he added.

He said that on having to disband the hunt it was the unanimous decision that funds remaining in their account be donated to charity.

l Martin Whyte

l (right) Clare FM DJ Presents Caoimhe

SHANNON NEWS

in association with

OLED manufacturing site officially opens

ANEW state of the art organic light emitting diode (OLED) manufacturing facility has been opened in Shannon by Universal Display Corporation (UDC) and PPG.

Production capacity is to be doubled at the site and enhance the worldwide manufacturing footprint for UDC’s phosphorescent OLED emissive materials.

UDC’s initial investment of €10 million, and subsequent multimillion-euro expenditures and multiyear, multiphase expansions of the site are expected to have a significant positive economic impact on the region.

Currently there are 50 people working at the production site in Shannon, this is expected to increase up to 100 with further investments. The high-tech roles at the Shannon facility include engineering and operational disciplines,

supply chain roles, synthetic chemists, and analytical technicians.

PPG has been UDC’s exclusive manufacturer of phosphorescent OLED emitter materials since 2000. The new facility in Shannon

expands upon PPG’s OLED production facilities located in Monroeville, Pa., and Barberton, Ohio. To enhance the energy efficiency, colour gamut and lifetime of OLED displays, UDC’s phosphorescent

Shannon man (24) accused of swinging kitchen knife at Ukrainian boy

A 24-year old Shannon man lunged at a 16 year old Ukrainian boy with a large kitchen knife in a violent disorder incident in Shannon, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Detective Garda Colm Moriarty played CCTV footage of the incident that occurred on a footpath and road adjacent to Shannon Town Centre at around 10pm on June 18th last.

Det Garda Moriarty told Judge Mary Larkin that the CCTV showed Daniel Harty running over and allegedly swinging a kitchen knife at the 16 year Ukrainian teen.

In another part of the incident, Det Gard Moriarty said that Mr Harty allegedly lunged at the 16 year old with the kitchen knife.

Giving background to the alleged incident, Det Garda

Moriarty said that a brother of Daniel Harty allegedly took a smoking vape off the two 16year old Ukrainian teenagers and the situation escalated to the alleged incident on the night of June 18th.

Det Garda Moriarty said that four other males were with Mr Harty including three juveniles.

Det Garda Moriarty said that a Ukrainian mother can be seen in the CCTV footage trying to usher Mr Harty away from the teen.

In the case, Mr Harty of Inis Eagla, Shannon is charged with violent disorder by engaging with four other named males by using or threatening to use unlawful violence that could cause a person to fear for their safety at Shannon Town Centre on June 18th.

Mr Harty is also charged with producing a kitchen knife in the course of a vio-

lent disorder incident at the same location on the same date.

After hearing an outline of the evidence in relation to an allegation of violent disorder, Judge Mary Larkin said that she would decline jurisdiction.

The case is to be now transferred to the circuit court where prison terms of up to 10 years can apply on conviction for violent disorder.

Sgt Aiden Lonergan said that the case could be adjourned for DPP consent for the case to forward on indictment. Judge Larkin granted legal aid to solicitor, Stiofan Fitzpatrick to represent Mr Harty.

Mr Harty is on bail concerning the charges and was further remanded on bail to appear at Ennis District Court on May 24th.

OLED emitters are used in virtually every OLED display in the world such as consumer electronic products ranging from smartwatches and smartphones to laptops, tablets, automotive and TVs, including foldable and rollable consumer electronic products.

President of UDC, Steven V. Abramson believed the “new site represents a major infrastructure investment for the future of the OLED industry. The region’s great workforce talent, driven by strong education systems here in Ireland, and its commitment to innovation helped our decision process in selecting Shannon as the facility’s location”.

Opening the facility “reflects the availability of skilled talent in Ireland’s Mid-West region and our commitment to supporting the growth of the local economy,” Tim Knavish, PPG president and chief executive officer stated.

Education Minister Norma Foley

(FF) who was in Shannon to mark the opening said, “The opening of this state-of-the-art new facility in Shannon is a significant development for the Mid-West region and is an endorsement of the Government’s continued focus on science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) academic programmes and the calibre of workforce we have here in Ireland. By working in partnership, PPG and UDC have grown exponentially, broadening global manufacturing operations in Ireland, building on successful foundations and developing this impressive Shannon facility”. Details of a Shannon partnership between UDC and PPG were first reported by The Clare Echo in March 2021. Confirmation was then issued that July of plans to create 100 jobs at the site which was formerly the Avara pharmaceuticals plant. Operations at the site commenced early in 2022.

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

Columnists

Ennis Quiz Masters among Clare Community Games winners

St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games has been very busy over the past week with Hurling, Talent, Choir, U12 Girls Gaelic Football and U14 Girls Gaelic Football all completed.

HURLING

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Hurling competition for U11 boys was held on Saturday morning in O’Garney Park. Nine teams participated with the final culminating in a hard-fought win for Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tubber over Inch/ Kilmaley/Connolly by 5-6 to 3-1. Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tubber now go forward to represent Clare in the Munster competition in UL in June.

TALENT

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Talent competitions for U12 and U16 were held in Quin Community Hall on Saturday morning last. It was coordinated by Carol O’Neill with assistance from several volunteers.

GAELIC FOOTBALL

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Gaelic Football for U14 Girls was held on Sunday morning in St Flannan’s College with Ballynacally/Lissycasey Blue emerging victorious in the final over Clarecastle/Ballyea 4-13 to 0-1.

The winners now go forward to repre-

Macalla an Chláir

Preab-Ghaeltacht amárach! Pop-Up Gaeltacht tomorrow!

COMHRÁ, Ceol agus Craic!

Dé hAoine / Friday, 26ú Bealtaine / May, 7.30pm, Tigh Knox’s, Sráid na Mainistreach, Inis, Co. an Chláir Fear a’ Tí: MacDara Ó Conaola

sent Clare in Munster in June.

GAELIC FOOTBALL U12

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Gaelic Football for U12 Girls took place on Sunday morning in Wolfe Tones, Shannon, and the overall winners were Ballynacally/ Lissycasey.

QUIZ

Ennis St Johns won the Clare Community Games Quiz competition which took place in Newmarket on Fergus, coming in ahead of Newmarket-on-Fergus and Inch/Kilmaley Connolly.

Thought for the week: Inhale courage

Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

IN MANY books, plays and films, characters look to dark skies and warn that a storm is coming.

Sometimes this meaning is not just a weather forecast! In our own lives when we face painful situations we talk about ‘weathering the storm’ or ‘being all at sea.’ These last few years we have all weathered, battled and hopefully survived the storm that was the Coronavirus and also all the conflicts in our world and so many crises such as the cost of living crisis. Being afraid and lacking courage is an uncomfortable feeling, especially during times in our life when things are uncertain. While many things remain outside our control, our mindset is key to coping and confidently facing the unknown. Much of what lies ahead in life remains uncertain. Yet as human beings, we crave security. We want to feel safe and have a sense of control over our lives.

LEAN ar na meáin-shóisialta muid / Follow us on social media, @ ClárAsGaeilge, Twitter, Facebook agus Instagram. R-phost / email: lionranahinse@gmail.com

Imeachtaí/Events:

• LIOS CEANNÚIR – Siúlóidí an Chláir. Dé Sathairn, 27ú Bealtaine, Siúlóid álainn 10km go hAilltreacha an Mhothair agus ar ais, ag tosaigh ag Páirc CLG Lios Ceannúir ag 11am.

• SRÁID NA CATHRACH - Scéalta agus Rannta le Chéile le Ceri, chuile

Dé Céadaoin sa Leabharlann ó 10.30 – 11am, Saor in aisce / Free of charge

• RAIDIÓ CLARE FM - ‘’Cúl-chaint’’ le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile mhaidin Dé Sathairn, 9am. Seol nuacht chuig: Donal@clare.fm

• INIS - Rith le Ruairí, chuile Dé Máirt ag 7.30pm, ag Local Motion, Sráid Uí Chonaill

• CILL INÍNE BAOITH - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

• INIS - Caint agus Comhrá, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in Insomnia (Tesco), oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm

• CILL CHISÍN – Preab-Ghaeltacht, Tigh Ghallachóir, Dé hAoine, 26ú

Fear and uncertainty can leave us feeling stressed, anxious, and powerless. It can drain us emotionally and trap us in a downward spiral of endless “what-ifs” and worst-case scenarios about what tomorrow may bring.

If you feel overwhelmed by uncertainty, it’s important to know that you’re not alone. For me I put my faith and trust in God and strive to “be not afraid.”

As Mark Twain wrote, “I have been through some terrible things in life, some of which actually happened.” It is up to us to try to choose faith over fear. When

life seems to be out of control, let us try to choose to be calm, cool and collected.

TRUST IN GOD

God knows how fear can paralyze us so he continually exhorts us to have courage, to have faith, to have confidence. “Do not be afraid; just have faith”, Jesus said in Mark 5:36. Those four words, “Do not be afraid,” are spoken and referenced countless times throughout scripture. We should pay attention to them. Fear can paralyze us and lead us into many forms of foolish thinking and acting, or not acting rationally. Fear does not allow us to stay calm, remain focused, and think clearly. Fear must give way to faith and trust in God. Place all worry and fear into God’s hands and trust. Trust that God is all-powerful and capable of handling every situation. He may not change things the way you think they should be changed, but He will lift your burden and enable you to move forward without the fear that can easily paralyze and confuse you.

HAVE THE COURAGE

“Do not be afraid” offers us hope, strength and courage when we are in doubt or struggling in any way. Mother Teresa said “Inhale courage, Exhale fear.” We are all capable of following the belief that God is always with us, trusting that we will receive love and always more love. Fr. Richard Rohr phrased fear in an acronym: False, Evidence, Appearing, Real. Maybe we should think about these words and realize that we can face up to what we think is fear. By living an authentic faith life we can face hardship, can

be empowered to live more generously, more trustfully and yet, more courageously. Let’s have the courage to try. Have the courage to do it.

Have the courage to be you. Have the courage to be who you really are.

Have the courage to follow your heart. Have the courage to love. Have the courage to hope.

Have the courage to care and protect. Have the courage to believe in forever. Have the courage to leave masks behind. Have the courage to believe in God.

Have the courage to pray. Have the courage to look beyond appearances to souls. Have the courage to conquer fears and addictions.

Have the courage to live a life of love and compassion. Have the courage to say no. Have the courage to say yes.

Have the courage to forgive. Have the courage to seek forgiveness.

Have the courage to say sorry. Have the courage to stand up for the truth.

Have the courage to call out fake news. Have the courage to ask for what you need. Have the courage to ask for help. Have the courage to challenge wrongs.

Have the courage to walk away. Have the courage to believe in true love. Have the courage to have confidence in yourself. Have the courage to go after your dreams and beliefs.

Have courage to live the life you want to live.

Have the courage to act mercifully. Have the courage to live humbly.

Have the courage to live a life full of faith. Have the courage to truly live a life worth living.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, look at your life’s experiences and see what you are doing about them and as the

saying goes, go after your dreams and do not be afraid, for Life can be and is short! These last few years for all of us at a personal, local, national and global level have been filled with worry, anxiety and fear as we have witnessed things at times in our world out of control. It is only natural that we are afraid. Perhaps, now more than ever, we need the encouraging and affirming words of Jesus, ‘Do not be afraid.’ So may everyday be a thoughtful courageous day for you. May the light of your soul guide you. May the light of your soul bless the work that you do with the secret love and warmth of your heart. May you see in what you do the beauty of your own soul. May the sacredness of your work bring healing, light and renewal to those who work with you and to those who see and receive your work. May your work never weary you. May it release within you wellsprings of refreshment, inspiration, courage and excitement. May you be present in what you do. May you never become lost in bland absences. May the day never burden. May dawn find you awake and alert, approaching your new day with dreams, courage, faith, possibilities and promises. May evening find you gracious and fulfilled. May you go into the night blessed, sheltered and protected. May God always control the boat of your life and grant you the grace to continue trusting in Him and to be able to resist life’s strong winds and storms. May you always go with Him and let Him guide you always. Amen.

The 2023 Quiz Champions, Ennis St Johns

Shannon Chamber explore Interpersonal connections with Dr Harry Barry

FURTHER EDUCATION & TRAINING DIVISION

ADULT LITERACY ORGANISER

Initial responsibility:

FET Coordinator for all Core Skills

Provision in Co. Clare

Two-year Fixed Term Contract

Ref. No. 013541

Applications are invited for the above post located in the College of FET, Ennis Campus, Ennis, Co. Clare. Online application form and further details are available on www.lcetb.ie/recruitment

Closing time and date for receipt of applications is 12 noon

Tuesday, 30th May 2023

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

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

PROJECT MANAGER –TOURISM SITES & SERVICES, 2023

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 12 noon Wednesday 7th June, 2023. Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846250, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie

Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community. Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

HAVING interacted with Shannon Chamber members in several online webinars during Covid-19, renowned expert on the impact of mental health wellbeing on our lives, Dr Harry Barry, visited Shannon recently to meet chamber members in person to stress the importance of interpersonal connections in the workplace. The event was held in Ei Electronics Centre of Excellence in Shannon and attracted a large audience.

While the pandemic and technology may have changed the frequency of interpersonal connections, Dr Barry said that connecting emotionally with other human beings is still paramount.

“One of the major consequences of the absence of these faceto-face connections is the damage done to our mental health and wellbeing,” he said.

“If we, or our work colleagues, lack such skills, we are opening up to the world of pain, which often accom-

panies mental health challenges. Positive emotional connections are also a huge bulwark against bouts of stress, anxiety and depression,” he said.

To demonstrate the role of verbal communications, particularly listening and conversational skills, attendees were invited to undertake several roleplay exercises. These were undertaken to demonstrate the difference between active and passive listening, and to give attendees an appreciation for the art of conversing.

Focusing in on the role of non-verbal communications, such as facial expression, eye contact, body language and posture, touch, and personal space, he said that those who have developed good people to people skills have a major advantage in terms of their ability to read situations, smooth over difficult interactions and run happier, more fulfilled teams.

“Emotional and cognitive empathy, an ability to manage difficult

social interactions and interpret non-verbal cues are three major skills that everyone should have to be truly effective in the workplace.

“Great leaders possess emotional and cognitive empathy; beware of those who only have cognitive or whose smile never reaches their eyes,” he stressed.

Having read most of Dr Barry’s books and looking forward to attaining a copy of his latest book, ‘ The Power of Connection’, Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes, said: “These connections need to be real-life connections, and not via social media. We all need to learn how to restrain our online activity and to learn how to positively connect in our work and personal lives.

“We look forward to facilitating more events of this nature with Dr Barry, particularly in getting this message across to our younger generation who are preparing to enter the workplace.”

l TALK: Dr Harry Barry (centre), pictured at the event in Shannon with Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber and Peter Murphy, marketing and CSR, Ei Electronics

Photo by Eamon Ward

Increase your chance of quitting by 400 per cent

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

PEOPLE are being urged to use evidence-based supports available to help them in County Clare in their bid to quit smoking.

Mary MacMahon, the Tobacco Program Lead with the HSE’s Midwest Community Healthcare organisation, is urging people to engage with their QUIT Midwest Clinics which increases people’s chances of smoking by 400 per cent.

World No Tobacco Day takes place next week on May 31 and as part of that, the Midwest QUIT team are working with the local authority and the hospital groups to raise awareness around smoking. Currently some 18 per cent of the Irish population are smokers, a figure which the government has ambitiously targeted to reduce to five per cent by 2025.

“One of the key things we’ve been involved with this year is the ‘Not around

Us’ campaign, a tobacco and vape free Clare campaign,”

Mary tells The Clare Echo “It’s about supporting people, to de-normalise smoking and to give people support to quit smoking. Éire Óg GAA Club recently launched as a ‘Not Around Us’ club, which we supported with Dena McGrath from the Local Authority here in Clare.”

The free QUIT program is delivered at various locations around Clare and is having a profound effect on smokers. The Clinics provide free support and tailor a plan to help individuals quit smoking.

“It’s lovely to see the progress and the huge investment that has been put into address tobacco from Healthy Ireland.

“We know that 18 per cent of people are still smoking, that’s from the most recent Healthy Ireland survey from people aged 15 and above, so it’s still a significant factor.

“We also know that the landscape of smoking has changed in that we’re now seeing electronic cigarettes and vaping becoming a

growing area of concern and we want to get the word out there that there are evidence-based ways of quitting smoking and while vaping is there, and of course it’s up to people to choose how they quit, there are evidence based, licenced and quality controlled products there to help people to quit.”

Mary adds that it’s important that people planning of kicking the habit avail of supports as it will significantly increase their chances of succeeding.

“We know that many people will unfortunately try to quit unaided, and if they do that only 3-5 per cent will still not smoking by the end of the

year. We are trying to support people to engage with our service which is free, we will talk about what are the licenced products available to help you to quit smoking and we’ll bring you through

the HSE programme for quitting smoking.

“Our measure of success is that 48 per cent of people who come in should have quit within four weeks of setting a quit date, and we are reaching that target so it is working and it’s delivered by trained stop smoking specialists who will bring you through from a pre-quit assessment right through the plan you agree together [over the four weeks].

“That can be in the form of telephone, faceto-face which we prefer, or video calling and we continue to do that at three months, six months, and then at one year after you’ve quit smoking so there’s quite a level of intensive support there which make you more likely to stay quit.”

“The more people who know there are supports and evidence-based supports for quitting, the more likely they

are to make a quit attempt and the more likely they are to succeed.”

Quit Midwest is part of the national QUIT service and provides stop smoking support through the provision of 20 weekly QUIT clinics throughout Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. Ten advisors are employed to deliver the HSE treatment program at the weekly clinics in locations including in Museum House on Francis Street, Ennis; in Kilrush Health Centre; Ennistymon Health Centre; Ennistymon Health Centre; and at the OPD on the Kilrush Road in Ennis, which is a dedicated maternity stop smoking clinic, while another clinic is being established in Shannon.

The QUIT Midwest Clinics are almost running at full capacity and those thinking about quitting smoking are encouraged to Call 065 6865 841 or email quit.midwest@hse.ie. For out of hours, call the quit line on 1800 201 203.

The QUIT Mid-West team at a recent event promoting Eire Og’s commitment to the ‘Not Around Us’ – Towards a Tobacco and Vape Free Clare Campaign

Photograph by Eamon Ward

GREEN CLARE

Eight Clare beaches retain Blue Flag but Cappa loses out

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Moneypoint a major part of our 'untapped potential'

safe for swimming.

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

EIGHT CLARE BEACHES have retained Blue Flags for the 2023 bathing season while Cappa has lost its status.

paraic@clareecho.ie

An Taisce have confirmed that Blues Flags have been retained in Whitestrand Miltown Malbay, Ballycuggernan, Whitestrand Doonbeg, Mountshannon, Fanore, Spanish Point, Kilkee and Lahinch.

MINISTER for the Environment, Eamon Ryan (GP) has pinpointed Moneypoint as a vital component in Ireland reducing its energy emissions.

Carrigaholt beach, Ballyalla Lake, Seafield and Bishop’s Quarter have each retained the Green Coast Award while Kilrush Marina has been included in the list of Blue Flag Marinas for the third consecutive year.

Cappa had held the Blue Flag for fifteen years until last week.

Members of the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce are currently assessing the strategic strengths and comparative advantages of the Estuary will be assessed by the Taskforce while also scoping out potential economic opportunities. The group is to have a report compiled by the end of November.

Chairperson 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

Confidence has been expressed by Clare County Council that Cappa will retain its Blue Flag next season. The local authority said the setback for the Kilrush beach relates to historical sampling data relating to testing carried out during the past four years into four classifications, namely Excellent, Good, Sufficient and Poor. Cappa has this year been classified as “Good”, which is above bathing water quality standard required, and the Council is reassur ing the public that the area remains

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

The Blue Flag programme aims to raise environmental awareness and promote sound environmental management of beaches, marinas, and eco-tourism boats around the world. 2023 is the 36th year that beaches and marinas have been awarded here in Ireland and the 95 beaches and marinas being awarded is the highest annual total to date.

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.

First presented in 2003, the Green Coast Awards recognises beaches for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty. An important aspect of the Green Coast Awards is the involvement of Clean Coasts groups in the management of awarded sites.

Offshore wind energy by Moneypoint 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-water port.

Cllr. Tony O’Brien (FF), Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, commented, “Clare has a proud tradition of involvement in the Blue Flag award scheme, which represents high standards in water quality, environmental information and education, environmental management and safety, services and facilities. The county’s beaches have a longstanding reputation for their clean environment, excellent water quality and natural beauty”.

He was confident Cappa would se cure its Blue Flag status next year.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare

"If you look at what the likes of ESB are proposing and look at Moneypoint on the other side of the Estuary and similar with Tarbert 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

Municipal District, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) stated, “The small rocky beach and nearby pier at Cappa are popular with local residents and visitors alike and the latest development will do little to change this. In line with the Bathing Water Quality Regulations 2008, regular testing at Cappa will continue from Monday which will reassure people that Cappa remains a safe environment in which to enjoy the waters of the Shannon Estuary”.

connecting to both Tarbert and Moneypoint, you can put that electricity onto that grid to power the country.

“When the wind isn’t blowing, the 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 technology, 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 continuous stable electricity source,” he explained.

Siobhan McNulty, Acting Director of Services, Physical Development, Clare County Council explained, “One of the criteria for retaining the Blue Flag is bathing water quality, which is assessed as an average of the previous four years. The detection of several elevated E-coli and Enterococci readings in 2019, 2020 and 2022 means that bathing water quality for Cappagh has changed from ‘Excellent’ for 2022 to ‘Good’ for the 2023, which, under the Blue Flag Programme, would be insufficient to retain the Blue Flag this year. With increased sampling of the water quality being undertaken this summer, Clare County Council is hopeful that the Blue Flag will be flying high over Cappa once again during the 2024 bathing water season”.

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

Cappa Beach, Kilrush

Lifeguards on duty in Clare during month of May for first time

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LIFEGUARDS are now on duty for the first time in May at the county’s four busiest beaches.

Over the weekend, lifeguards commenced patrolling the beaches at Lahinch and Spanish Point while this weekend coming they will also be in Fanore and Kilkee.

It marks the earliest return of lifeguards to beaches in the county and is the first time they have been on duty in the month of May.

Cllr Liam Grant (GP) who has been vocal in his efforts to increase lifeguard cover said the move was a step in the right direction. “I have been fighting for this for a long time with the Council. They often made

the excuse that there wasn’t any lifeguards available to work but I made them ask the staff and they were available”. He noted that on Sunday, over 100 people were in the water in Lahinch alone. He paid tribute to all lifeguards who commenced work last weekend. “As far as I know we are the first county in the Republic to start the lifeguard season in May. They have been doing it up North for years. It will be great for swimmers who badly need a swim zone on busy days. Our swimming habits have changed and I’m very glad the Council have decided to accept my pleas for this service”.

Since his co-option to the local authority in October 2021, the La-

hinch native has tabled more than one motion seeking the extension of lifeguard cover in the county, first seeking year-round cover and then scaling it back to cover the month of May. He previously described the Council’s stance as “out of touch” and said their lifeguard service was “the best value for money service in the county”. Debates have occurred on the matter within the chambers of Clare County Council in 2020, 2021 and 2022.

Among those to contribute was Kilkee based, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) who remarked that the local authority must begin testing the water quality on a more frequent basis year-round. “Our lifeguard

service needs to be provided for a longer time. The beach in Kilkee was packed to the rafters every weekend, it is not good enough to say we don’t usually do it so we’re not going to do it”.

Deirdre Coleman Interior Designer

NOTHING compares to sleep to melt away the stresses of daily living, yet for many of us, a solid 8 hours to keep us in the pink of health can often prove elusive.

Everything from bedroom temperature, acoustics, mattress quality, lighting and layout can have a massive impact on our capacity to wind down quickly and drift off with ease.

A solid seven to nine hours sleep serves functions that many of us are sorely oblivious to but neuroscientist Matthew Walker, author of “Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams” has sought to shed some light on the perils of walking through life in an underslept state. “Insufficient sleep is a key lifestyle factor determining whether or not you will develop Alzheimer’s disease. Inadequate sleep - even moderate reductions for just one week - disrupts blood sugar levels so profoundly that you would be classified as pre-diabetic. Short sleeping increases the likelihood of your coronary arteries becoming blocked and brittle, setting you on a path towards cardiovascular disease, stroke and congestive heart failure”, warns Walker in his book.

From improved air quality to the joy of natural materials against the skin, here are our 7 tips for biophilic bedroom bliss.

1Control Light Exposure

Humans evolved over millions of years in outdoor environments, intimately in tune with nature and the regular cycle of sunlight and darkness. Natural lighting is a key element of managing our internal body clock, giving our bodies the cues they need to self-regulate.

Your circadian clock, an internally driven 24-hour cycle that helps to set your sleep/ wake cycle, is most sensitive to light at the following times:

• About one hour after waking up in the morning

• About two hours before your bedtime

• Throughout the night

Block any early morning light by doubling up on blackout blinds and curtains to minimise “light spillage” that will interfere with sleep.

Use candlelight or dim lighting before bedtime to limit the impact of artificial light on your sleep quality. Using a small, low-power lamp can help transition to bedtime and pitch darkness. Low illuminance and warm colour temperature may help with relaxation and getting into the right mindset for sleep.

While we know that artificial light, be that from our phones, TV or laptop/tablet can negatively impact our sleep-wake cycle by throwing our circadian rhythm off balance, there are ways of using artificial light that can actually improve our sleep. Try a Lumie alarm clock alarm clock which doubles as a natural light simulator – automatically adapting its tone to replicate sunset and sunrise as you wind down to sleep, and as you wake up. Remove the blue light from your phone by designing bedside drawers that contain charging sockets for your phones. If you work a night shift or use a lot of electronic devices at night, consider wearing blue-blocking glasses or installing an app that filters the blue/green wavelength at night.

If you’re lucky enough to have a balcony off you’re bedroom, get outdoors within the first hour of waking up - aim for 30 minutes. Getting exposure to sunlight in the morning can help you sleep at night because it helps regulate your circadian rhythm.

2Let nature in

Draw design inspiration from the natural world, through what’s known as ‘biophilic design’ – weaving nature into the home environment by increasing natural light, maximising outside views, and using natural colours, textures and patterns in interior spaces. Soothing tones of blue, green and earthy tones reflect nature and help create a serene and restful backdrop for your bedroom. We associate tones of blue

Creating the Ultimate Sleep Sanctuary

with sea and sky, and these links can help relax us and encourage sleep. Greens are strongly associated with the natural world, so painting a bedroom in green tones can remind us of how we might feel while walking through woodland or lying in a grassy meadow. Green combines perfectly with wood which has a hugely positive impact on our emotional state. According to observations made in research, touching a wooden surface gives people a feeling of safety and being close to nature, serving to bring down our stress levels so incorporate wood where you can - wooden panelling, wooden bed or bedside tables or custom wooden headboard. Raw unfinished wood gives a more natural look and creates a visual impact.

Botanical patterns are another great way to bring nature into the bedroom. Fabrics and wallpapers with floral or jungle-inspired designs serve to ‘bring the outside in’ and calm us down. Add natural elements to your bedside table like greenery or pebbles and shells. A nightstand vignette could then evoke memories of a pleasant and relaxing time in nature, easing the mind into sleep. Scent is an often-overlooked element of home decor, but home fragrance can have a big effect on the way your home makes you feel. Again, nature offers us scents like lavender that transport and soothe us.

and elevate your feet to knee height. One of the key benefits of adjustable electric beds is how they can provide pain relief from chronic conditions such as arthritis and sciatica, helping to drastically improve the quality of life of patients suffering from these conditions. Since users can alter the position of an electric bed to the angle that suits them best, they can lie down and sleep in a position that takes pressure away from painful areas. Giving painful areas the chance to rest during the night has the knock-on effect of reducing pain and improving mobility upon waking. If you need the bed for a medical reason, you can claim back the VAT - a benefit a lot of people are unaware of.

Adjustable beds combat snoring problems by raising the top half of the bed, which keeps the airways open more fully. Snoring occurs when the soft tissues of the throat sag as a person fall asleep, causing loud rumbling sounds. Sleeping with the top half of the bed raised helps to fight the effects of gravity so that the tissues of the throat don’t droop down, blocking the airways.

4Create a wind down ritual

either sweating or shivering. One solution is a multi-tog duvet to transition from one season to the next. These clever duvet sets include one very light tog duvet and one medium tog duvet, with snap buttons on the corners so that you can combine them to create one heavy tog duvet. Natural bedding fabrics like cotton and bamboo help regulate your temperature as they are more breathable than synthetics. I can personally vouch for Jo Browne’s bamboo range which makes getting out of bed even tougher but they are luxuriously soft and hypoallergenic which is great for sensitive Irish skin and are perfect if you overheat at night.

6Get fussy with your pillows

The right pillow can make or break your sleep quality so figure out what is hampering your sleep and look for a pillow that addresses those issues. If it’s heat thats bothering you, a cooling pillow may help. Specifically designed with breathable components a cooling pillow can reduce sweating, overheating, and the general discomfort that comes from being too hot due to warmer temperatures or hormonal changes due to menopause. A cooling pillow can help counter hot flushes that cause sleep interruptions and help you avoid daytime fatigue.

When you think of natural, earthy design you think of organic flowing lines. This should be the same when designing your biophilic bedroom. Think curved headboards, organic shapes for light fittings and lots of natural fabrics (cotton, linen, wool) with throws and cushions. 3

Invest in a quality mattress

Investing in a high-quality mattress is a solid investment given that we spend a third of our lives asleep which equates to 26 years for the average person. Look for 100% organic materials and certified natural fibres. Check out www.naturalsleep. ie for Irish mattresses that are chemical free and non-toxic, hypo-allergenic and resistant to mould, mildew and dust mites as well as being durable and long lasting. They are the only fully certified, organic, natural mattresses available in Ireland.

Natural Sleep, based in Limerick, also offer an adjustable bed option (www. adjustablebedspecialist.ie) that looks like a normal bed, but allows you - with the touch of a button - to adjust the headrest of your bed from flat into sitting position or anywhere in between that suits your needs. The adjustable frame has a five-part moving action which allows you to sit up in the bed

Your wind-down routine can be as simple or as complex as you want. Closing the curtains, dimming the light, spraying some pillow spray, lighting some candles, some breath work, a gentle stretching routine, a gratitude journal - choose what works for you. I love the candle, pillow mist, massage oil and roll-on aromatherapy essential oils from Wicklow-based www. sleepalchemists.com who offer curated gift boxes all delivered with a hand written note and a QR code with a yoga nidra meditation - sheer bliss. The key to success is repeating your sleep ritual each night, making it part of your daily routine. Inhaling essential oils stimulates the olfactory system, the part of the brain connected to scent. As the molecules reach the brain they affect the limbic system which is linked to emotions, your heart rate, blood pressure, stress, anxiety and hormone balance. A spa-like treatment you can incorporate into your bedtime self-care routine. I’m never without mine.

5

If you want a 100% natural option, check out Irish company www.woolow.com. Each Woolow pillow is crafted from carefully selected natural wool and covered in 300 thread Fairtrade cotton to ensure you get the most comfortable rest and the most refreshing sleep every night. All of their pillows are hypoallergenic, temperature regulating and naturally supportive.

7

Invest in seasonal bedding

Switching to a thinner duvet for summer is essential to ensure a comfortable and restful sleep. Our unpredictable summer weather in Ireland can often leave us in a predicament over what to do about bedding in the warmer months. Overnight temperatures can go from sweltering one night to chilly the next, leaving us tossing and turning and waking up

A breath of fresh air

Better air quality improves our overall health, and in the bedroom it’s especially important for a good night’s sleep. Introduce purifying plants which are known for their nighttime oxygen production or bacteria-removing properties (mother-inlaw’s tongue and English ivy are good for this). If you live in an area where outside air quality is satisfactory, you should also start the day by throwing open the windows to let the breeze in. Bringing in plants directly connects you to nature, adds visual texture and are therapeutic to look at. Check out evergreen moss art handcrafted with real preserved mosses and plants by Dublinbased Ninfa Studio, www.ninfastudio.com

Where to Shop

Self.ly Interior Design based in Ennis, Co. Clare is focused on wellness interior design, creating spaces that enhance our wellbeing. Interior Designer, Deirdre Coleman, is passionate about designing for the wellness of her clients and focuses on delivering restorative spaces that positively impact on health and wellbeing.

With an interest in designing for wellness, Deirdre is putting her considerable wealth of experience in self-care, health and wellbeing to design homes that make people feel their best

selves.

Self.ly Interior Design offers one hour online design consultations, room designs and full house designs customised to your needs. We also offer property staging and showhouse design focused on wellbeing and hybrid working.

For more information and design inspiration, follow us on Instagram: @Self_ly Tel: 086 3868058 Email: selflydesign@gmail.com

AYURVEDIC SLEEP RITUAL WITH COMPLEMENTARY EYE MASK, WWW.SLEEPALCHEMISTS.COM

“WOODLAND SANCTUARY” EVERGREEN MOSS ART HANDCRAFTED WITH REAL PRESERVED MOSSES AND PLANTS BY DUBLIN-BASED NINFA STUDIO, WWW.NINFASTUDIO.COM

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JO BROWNE BAMBOO BEDDING BUNDLE, AVAILABLE FROM ARNOTT’S & MEADOWS & BYRNE

John’s ceremonies joyous & geared towards couple How to choose the perfect wedding venue

LEGAL wedding celebrant

John Burns is accepting bookings for 2024, such is the demand for interfaith ceremonies in County Clare.

John retired as Deputy Principal at Rice College, Ennis last year following 26 years of service, to follow his vocation for celebrancy.

Having qualified as an interfaith minister in 2018, a week later John took the plunge by marrying his partner Tom Gleeson at The Old Ground Hotel - since which time weddings have become a very integral part of his life.

Among recent ceremonies officiated by John include a Star Trek-themed wedding at Dunluce Castle in County Antrim. Closer to home, he has enjoyed joining couples at dramatic backdrops such as Hag’s Head at the Cliffs of Moher, on Fanore Beach, while also working closely with hoteliers across Clare.

John explains that interfaith ministery breaks down barriers, with couples being welcomed “irrespective of their background, religious beliefs or relationship his-

tory”.

“For example if a girl of the Jewish faith wants to marry a Protestant man, I can meet them to get an understanding of their requirements and plan the ceremony together.

Moreso, now you get people who don’t have a

into marriage and that’s a light-hearted moment.”

He stresses that his role as celebrant is a joyous one which sees him playing a vital part in the most important day of a couple’s lives.

His ceremonies have been described as “dignified, classy but also light-hearted and very enjoyable”. John explains, “I thought that captures what I try to do because it is their special day and for them to enjoy the ceremony itself is very important.”

John is registered with the HSE which means all legal aspects of his weddings are Covered. “I can carry out the legal part on the day without the need for a registry office and couples find this point very important.”

religious belief system and they want a more secular ceremony.” John outlines that there are no restrictions as to what the couple can include in their ceremony, which would typically include poetry, song, handfasting ceremony, or traditional religious segments.

“I usually get a little story from the couple’s journey

John’s 2023 diary still has some availability and he is currently taking bookings for 2024 and 2025. Weekends are very popular so get in while they’re still available!

To enquire with John Burns Wedding Celebrant, call 087 276 63388 or email 31johnburns@ gmail.com.

SELECTING the right wedding venue is a pivotal decision in planning your big day. The venue sets the tone and ambiance of your wedding, and it plays a crucial role in creating lasting memories. With countless options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect location. This article aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision when selecting your dream wedding venue.

Determine Your Vision:

Before embarking on your venue search, take the time to envision your ideal wedding. Consider the theme, style, and atmosphere you desire.

Discuss your preferences as a couple and visualize how you want your special day to unfold.

Having a clear vision will narrow down your options and guide you in finding the perfect venue that aligns with your dreams.

Define Your Budget:

Establishing a budget early on is essential for a successful venue search.

Determine how much you are willing to allocate for the venue, keeping in mind other wedding expenses such as catering, decorations, and entertainment.

Knowing your financial boundaries will help you focus on venues within your price range, preventing unnecessary disappointment.

Guest Count and Capacity: Consider the size of your guest list before finalizing a venue. Ensure that the venues you explore can comfortably accommodate your expected number of attendees. A spacious venue ensures that everyone feels

comfortable, while an overly large space may create a sense of emptiness.

Confirm the maximum capacity of each venue you visit to ensure a seamless experience for you and your guests.

Location and Accessibility: Choose a venue that is easily accessible for your guests. Consider the distance from major transportation hubs, availability of parking, and proximity to accommodations.

If a significant portion of your guests is coming from out of town, consider venues near hotels or provide transportation options to simplify their journey.

Consider Your Wedding Style: Match the style of your venue to the overall theme of your wedding. Whether you envision a rustic barn, an elegant ballroom, a beachfront paradise, or a garden ceremony, select a venue that complements your desired aesthetic.

The ambiance of the venue should enhance the atmosphere you wish to create, providing a picturesque backdrop for your special day.

Amenities and Facilities:

Take into account the amenities and facilities offered by each venue.

Consider aspects such as catering options, availability of bridal suites, dressing rooms, and adequate restroom facilities.

Some venues may have preferred vendors or restrictions on outside suppliers, so it’s important to be aware of any limitations before making your final decision.

Flexibility and Weather

Considerations:

Flexibility is crucial when it comes to wedding planning. Consider venues that offer backup plans for inclement weather conditions or have indoor and outdoor spaces available.

Ensure that the venue can accommodate your desired ceremony and reception setup, offering flexibility to adapt to unexpected changes.

Visit and Evaluate:

Once you have shortlisted potential venues, schedule visits to each one. Pay attention to the venue’s cleanliness, overall ambiance, and how it aligns with your vision. Evaluate the layout, lighting, acoustics, and available amenities during your visit. It is also an opportunity to ask any questions you may have and discuss specific requirements with the venue staff.

Selecting the right wedding venue sets the stage for your perfect day. By considering factors such as your vision, budget, guest count, location, style, amenities, flexibility, and personal evaluation, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your dreams. Remember to trust your instincts and choose a venue that resonates with you as a couple, ensuring that your wedding day becomes a cherished memory for years to come.

‘Nothing is overlooked except the sea’

THE BELLBRIDGE HOUSE HOTEL, prides themselves in the ability to tailor and adjust their wedding packages to suit the individual needs of every wedding couple.

Overlooking the ocean at Spanish Point the hotel offers an enviable location for those seeking to find the perfect wedding venue. As their saying goes “nothing is overlooked except the sea”.

Family owned and operated the team at the Bellbridge House Hotel are dedicated to extending a warm welcome and high standard of service to all their guests.

Civil Ceremonies and Civil Partnerships can also be held; onsite at the Bellbridge House Hotel. Following the ceremony their elegant Crystal Suite can cater for up to 200 wedding guests, whilst their more intimate suites can host wedding parties for those wishing to have a smaller number of guests in attendance on the day.

To find out what they can do to make your wedding day a special and memorable occasion; why not contact the team today.

Simply ask for David McManus or John O’Sullivan and let them guide you through their wedding offerings and devote time to providing you with a wedding show-around at a time and date suited to you.

Their next Wedding Showcase will take place on Saturday 17th & Sunday 18th June, from 12 noon to 6pm.

Why not log on www.bellbridgehotelclare. com and download their new wedding brochure.

www.bellbridgehotelclare.com

Telephone: 065 7084038

Dromoland Inn is the perfect venue for your wedding

NESTLED on the 450 acre Dromoland Estate in Newmarket on Fergus and overlooking the panoramic Shannon Estuary, the Award-Winning Inn at Dromoland is the perfect venue for your Wedding Day Celebrations.

From lavish arrival receptions, to the highest quality menus which are locally sourced, the award winning hotel aims to exceed every expectation, with the renowned high levels of service for which the hotel has long been known.

Couples can also enjoy the majestic backdrop of Dromoland Castle for those all-important wedding day shots while our Ballyhannon Suite also benefits from its own Private Garden, which may also be used for arrival receptions or outside Civil Ceremonies.

Our wonderful all-inclusive wedding packages start from only €60 per person so your dream wedding can become a reality at a very affordable price.

For more information and to book in for your complimentary wedding consultation and show-around, please contact Pauline our Wedding Co-Ordinator directly by phone on 061 368161 or by email pauline.cassidy@ theinnatdromoland.ie

Analyzing the Average Cost of Weddings in Ireland in 2023

A WEDDING is an incredibly special occasion, symbolizing the union of two individuals in love.

However, the cost associated with planning a wedding can often be a significant source of concern.

In Ireland, where wedding celebrations are renowned for their charm and elegance, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the average expenses involved in such events.

In this article, we will delve into the average cost of weddings in Ireland in 2023, offering insights into the various factors that contribute to these expenses.

Understanding Wedding

Expenses:

Planning a wedding involves numerous components, including venue selection, catering, photography, attire, entertainment, and more. Each element contributes to the overall cost of the event. It’s important to note that these expenses can vary depending on various factors such as location, guest count, and personal preferences.

Venue Costs:

The venue plays a significant role in setting the tone for a wedding. In Ireland, couples often choose picturesque locations, such as castles, manor houses, or scenic outdoor venues. On average, the cost of renting a wedding venue in Ireland can range from €4,000 to €10,000, or even higher for more exclusive and luxurious options.

Catering and Drinks:

Food and beverages typically account for a significant portion of wedding expenses. The average cost per person for a wedding dinner in Ireland ranges from €45 to €180, depending on the menu selection and level of formality. This cost includes canapés, a multicourse meal, dessert, and drinks.

Corkage fees, charged for bringing your own alcohol, may apply in some venues.

Photography and Videography:

Capturing the precious moments of a wedding is crucial. The average cost of professional wedding photography in Ireland ranges from €1,500 to €4,000.

Additionally, couples often opt for videography services to immortalize their special day, which can cost between €1,500 and €3,500.

Attire and Accessories:

Wedding attire, including the bridal gown, groom’s suit, and accessories, can vary greatly in price.

The bride’s dress alone can cost anywhere from €1,000 to €5,000 or more, while the groom’s attire typically ranges from €500 to €2,000.

It’s important to consider alterations, accessories, and outfit for the wedding party when budgeting for attire.

Entertainment and Music:

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Other Expenses:

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While the average cost of weddings in Ireland in 2023 can fluctuate based on individual choices and requirements, it’s important to approach wedding planning with a realistic budget in mind. It is crucial to consider your financial circumstances and prioritize expenses accordingly to ensure a memorable and joyous celebration without unnecessary financial strain.

By understanding the average costs associated with various wedding components, couples can plan a wedding that suits their preferences while maintaining financial stability.

'Now we have to win the final' - Lohan

MUNSTER SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP, RD4

Clare 2-22 Cork 3-18

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE:

Frees for: 7 (4/3

Wides: 13 (7/6)

Scores from play: 1-19

Spread of scorers: 10

Top scorer: Tony Kelly (2-04

1’Pen)

Bookings: Conor Cleary (15).

Own puckouts won: 18 from 28 (64%)

PLAYER WATCH

CORK

Frees for: 13 (3/10)

Wides: 7 (3/4)

Scores from play: 3-12

Spread of scorers: 8

Top scorer: Patrick Horgan (1-09 6f)

Bookings: Ciaran Joyce (36), Tim O’Mahony (73).

Own puckouts won: 24 from 37 (65%)

Referee: Johnny Murphy (Limerick)

MANAGER COMMENT “

“It was brilliant, brilliant for everyone who is involved, brilliant for all of the crowd that came here in the hope that we would get a performance from the team and brilliant for everyone who is involved.

“We were disappointed that we didn’t give the crowd a chance to get behind us in the Tipp game and we were very conscious of that, our lads really did the business and thanks to everyone here today for their support.

“We’ve got a brilliant bunch, I’m delighted that they are getting the victories, you need to win and just getting the victories for the work they put in.

“Fair play to Cork, they were never-say-die, they keep coming and coming, they just get it done and credit to our lads, they just get it done as well and we’re just delighted with our lads.

“The competition is just so competitive in Munster, we knew that after the first day that we had to get six

points in order to be guaranteed, we got our six points so we’re happy with the work we’ve done and happy we’ve bounced back.

“We said it after the Limerick game that we had a quarter-final, semi-final and a final, that’s how we approached it like the old-style Munster championship of quarter-final, semi-final and final, that’s how we called it and we had to win the quarter-final and semi-final, now we have to win the final.”

'Days like this are why I came back hurling' - Shane O'Donnell reflects on special day

by Derek Dormer news@clareecho.ie

CUSACK PARK was something special on Sunday with joyous scenes to mark Clare’s qualification for the Munster senior hurling final.

Moments after Johnny Murphy sounded the final whistle, Shane O’Donnell the man who scored 3-03 in the 2013 All-Ireland final to secure Clare the honours against Cork admitted that the environment in Ennis was something he had never experienced.

"It's a great day with Cusack Park absolutely rocking. I've never heard anything like it in my life and if I never played another match that was worth it just to hear the noise, to see the emotion on supporters faces. That's why I came back hurling”. Suffering concussion injuries had made the Éire Óg attacker consider leaving the sport he loved in recent seasons.

How Clare’s supporters have rallied behind the team has been a constant trend during Brian Lohan’s four

years in charge. They certainly made their voice known in the closing stages leading to Diarmuid Ryan’s match-winning score.

“At the end of the day it's just another win in a group game but it definitely didn't feel like that out there at the

final whistle. You have to enjoy days like these. To be able to experience that atmosphere there today I don't care if I lost every game I ever played in because that was so special. It really was incredible. Those Clare supporters are amazing. Brian

always tells us if we put in the hard work that the Clare supporters will roar us home and they were like a 16th man out there today”.

Cork produced a battling display and kept coming back at Clare, somewhat against the run of play they got a third goal through Patrick Horgan to level the tie. Ennis native Shane admitted he was worried Clare could have let it slip.

He told The Clare Echo, "I felt that just before the Cork goal we had five minutes of dominance where we just didn't push on. We had a series of wides including one myself. It began to feel like we were letting it slip but thankfully we responded and we got some incredible points late on and held on in the end, barely but thankfully we held on”.

With their activity in the round-robin series now concluded, Clare will wait to see which county they will face in the Munster final. For O’Donnell he is “not one bit” concerned as to who they will go toe to toe with for

provincial honours.

“To be honest every team is as good as each other. This Munster Championship is so tight. We are just delighted to be there especially after the opening day defeat to Tipperary. It does however give us a chance to rest though for a week which is needed. We have alot of niggling injuries which is just down to the intensity of battle. We can rest and then get back to training the following week where it will be all systems go”.

Clare haven't won a Munster title since 1998 but hopes are high this drought may be ended. “We place pressure on ourselves if I'm being totally honest. There was a comment in the dressing room just now that we are zero from three in Munster Finals so we as a group will desperately want to rectify that. The fans will expect and we will do what we do every day which is to go out and represent the people of Clare as best we can. It's why we sacrifice so much. It's an honour to represent these magnificent supporters”.

With Clare having secured a place in the All-Ireland minor final and the U20s coming close to securing a provincial title, Shane feels hurling in the county is in a strong place. “We've been following the minors and the under 20's. They are two super teams. It's unreal to see it and it feels like what it was back in 2012 and 2013 when we were building and I just hope we can achieve similar success. It's a huge professional set up across the board.

“We have tremendous coaches at all levels and loads of unsung heroes who do so much work with stats and video analysis that nobody sees. But without those fantastic people we wouldn't be able to do what we do on the field of play. They get no plaudits from outside the camp but I can tell you all these people are so invaluable to the cause. It's a brilliant set up where everyone rows in the same direction.”

Brian Lohan, Clare:

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l PICTURED: The imperious John Conlon distributes the ball as man of the match Diarmuid Ryan looks Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Shane O’Donnell gets away from Robert Downey

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Special day for Clare Minors

ALL-IRELAND MINOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL

Clare 0-23 Kilkenny 0-15

Venue: FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles

Compiled by Derek Dormer

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE: Frees for: 18 (6/12)

Wides: 12 (7/5)

Scores from play: 0-15

Spread of scorers: 13

Top scorer: James Hegarty (0-6 4f 1’65)

Bookings: None

Own puckouts won: 10 from 16 (63%)

HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

KILKENNY Frees for: 14 (5/9)

Wides: 1 (0/1)

Scores from play: 0-8

Spread of scorers: 6

Top scorer: Conor Doyle (0-5 4f), Greg Kelly (0-5 3f)

Bookings: Conor Doyle (12), Greg Kelly (54) Red Card: Ed McDermott (8)

Own puckouts won: 17 from 35 (49%)

REFEREE: Kevin Jordan (Tipperary)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Brian O'Connell, Clare:

“It’s a really special day. We had the heartbreak last year with the munster final defeat on penalties and losing the All-Ireland semi-final to Offaly but now we can look forward to the biggest day in underage hurling.

“We made hard work of it for whatever reason if I'm being totally honest. It was a real humid day and it felt hot on the sideline so I can't imagine how the boys felt on the field.

“We are absolutely delighted. It's a reward for all

the hard work. I suppose the sending off had a big part to play in the game but I thought when we got control of the game in that second half we pushed on.

“We knew they'd throw everything at us. Sometimes when you lose a game the first thing you want to do is go out and play straight away again. Losing that Leinster final gave them a hunger and desire to go at us. They posed a lot of questions of us in that first thirty and everything they hit was going

over but we still managed to have a lead at the interval. Our defence has been rock solid and we have the utmost faith in them to do their job. They were magnificent again today and hopefully they can be magnificent one more time on June 4.

“Our forwards didn't

hit their usual heights but twenty three points is still great scoring. Yes we had to grind it out at times but we stuck with it and that's the important thing.

“It’s incredible, absolutely incredible. Just to say we are into an All-Ireland final is magical.”

Collins laments a 'very poor display'

ALL IRELAND SFC GROUP 4, ROUND 1

Clare 0-09 Donegal 0-14

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE:

Frees for: 6 (4/2)

Wides: 11 (6/5)

Scores from play: 0-06

Spread of scorers: 6

Top scorer: Eoin Cleary (002 2f), Pearse Lillis (0-02), Emmet McMahon (0-02 1f)

Bookings: Pearse Lillis (57),

Own kickouts won: 21 from 25 (84%)

Referee: James Molloy (Galway)

DONEGAL

Frees for: 10 (6/4)

Wides: 9 (6/3)

Scores from play: 0-14

Spread of scorers: 7

Top scorer: Ciaran Thompson & Oisin Gallen (0-04 each)

Bookings: Daire Ó Baoill (34), Hugh McFadden (45), Rory O’Donnell (70).

Own kickouts won: 19 from 20 (95%)

MANAGER COMMENT “

“This was very disappointing, I thought in the first half we should have been out of sight and we went in at half-time just three points up, the second half was a very disappointing display.

“We felt that if we played well and didn’t win the match fair enough but that was a very disappointing capitulation in the second half.

“I thought we dominated the

game in the first half, we started to make some silly choices with regards shots, we should have gone in a lot more up at half time, the second half was a very poor display.

Of course it is recoverable, a lot of the commentators have gone with one win (could be enough), I think teams will beat other teams which is not expected, you will

never go into championship and get every prediction right, it isn’t quite as simple as that. Goal difference and point difference will make a difference in these groups. Today is over now and we have to focus on Clones in two weeks time”.

MANAGER COMMENT “

“We’re just delighted to get the result because we’ve obviously been on a bad run the last while.

After the Down game, the boys returned to training on the follow-

l PICTURED: Daniel Walsh goes to ground under pressure from Hugh McFadden Photo by Gerard O'Neill

PLAYER WATCH

KEELAN SEXTON full forward

MINUTES PLAYED: 70

POSSESSIONS: 8 (6/2)

PASSES: 6 (3/3)

Long Pass: 0

Short Pass: 6 (4/2)

Foot Pass: 2 (1/1)

Hand Pass: 4 (3/1)

SHOTS: 2 (2/0)

Scores: 0-1

Wides: 0

Dropped Short: 0

Saved: 1

Frees Won: 1 (1/0)

Frees Lost: 1 (0/1)

Turnovers For: 1 (1/0)

Turnovers Against: 0

TACKLES: 3 (2/1)

ing Wednesday night in Convoy, put the heads down and worked really hard so today is the reward for that.

“I think we were in a sticky enough place by half-time but to be fair, nobody put their heads down as we knew we had plenty of possession and created enough chances but were just probably shooting from the wrong areas and maybe had the wrong boys on the ball."

l Jack Sheedy gets away from Joshua Vaughan BurrenEye Photography

SCAN

l RISING STAR: James Hegarty excelled at centre-back

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Colm Collins, Clare:

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Paddy Bradley, Donegal:

Defining week for double-chasing Avenue Utd

WITHIN the space of five days, Avenue Utd will know if their bid to win back-toback League and Cup titles is alive or dead, ending up empty-handed is not an option according to their manager David Russell.

Such a timeframe may sound similar because it was exactly the case last season. They defeated Newmarket Celtic in the Cup final scuppering their rivals’ hopes for an unprecedented ten in a row on the Saturday while the following Wednesday, they were crowned League champions after a stunning Dylan Casey volley earned them a draw with Celtic.

This Saturday they meet Lifford FC in the Ennis Carpets Cup final and renew acquaintances with Newmarket on Wednesday where an Avenue win would see a play-off determine who wins the Premier Division. “As we stand now, we are on track to retain the titles, the cup and the league, it is in our hands.

"The last game with Newmarket has to be played. If we didn’t win them, personally it would be a massive disappointment. I took over this to win trophies for Avenue, if we came out of this season empty handed it is a massive disappointment and it would be a failure in my eyes,” Russell told The Clare Echo

At the outset of the season, Avenue targeted retaining both titles but also wanted to progress further in the FAI and Munster Junior Cups. “The progression in the FAI didn’t happen and the biggest regret is that we didn’t push on at 1-0 up in the Colga game, in extra time had a man up and had three

chances but didn’t do it, that to me is a huge disappointment”.

That defeat on a penalty shootout (3-1) in the last 16 of the FAI Junior Cup to Colga FC has left scars within the Avenue ranks. “It is a massive regret that we didn’t progress and then looking at our near neighbours going on to do a massive achievement, it is a bitter pill to swallow but at the same time you have to tip your hat to Newmarket for doing what they have done”.

This disappointment has also strengthened Russell’s determination with the Clarecastle native already on board to manage Avenue next year for a fifth season.

"Newmarket winning it for the first time and becoming the first Clare club to do it; it drives me on more as an Avenue manager to progress even more next year”.

Within an hour of Newmarket winning the FAI Cup, Russell sent out a text to all his players, saying he hoped "it would drive every one of you on to further yourselves better in the rest of the season, the off-season and the start of next season to aspire to be national champions like they’ve done".

Mention of tipping his hat to Newmarket brings with it the reminder that the Avenue stalwart was sporting a red and white wooly hat at Celtic’s win over Regional Utd in the FAI, he is quick to confirm that it wasn’t a Newmarket hat. “I don’t overly colour co-ordinate my clothes as Siobhan would tell you, I just pull the first thing that comes out, as it happened it was red and white so that’s life”.

Not alone did David become the first person in Avenue Utd’s history to captain and manage the club to a Premier Division and Clare Cup double but he is also credited by players with helping to de-escalate politics within the club regarding the A and B teams.

Russell notes, “Eamon (O’Reilly) was a good appointment, he’s been involved with the club for years and he knows the importance of marrying together an A and a B squad, it has worked very well this year. It was a couple of weeks of disharmony about two years ago which left a sour taste in the mouth for a lot of people”.

O’Reilly was part of Russell’s management last year, he has been replaced by former CDSL Chairman, Oliver Fitzpatrick. “As quite as he is, Oliver has a serious opin-

ion, he is very astute, he is a great man to know the rules and regulations but a great man to read the game without being overly vocal.

Both Russell and Davy O’Grady lined out side by side at centre midfield when Avenue won the Clare Cup in 2000, they’re still side by side but in a different capacity.

“He won two Munster Juniors and an FAI with Pike Rovers, he has played at the highest level and reminds us on a weekly basis that he has won an FAI medal, he isn’t slow for a comment or two but another quiet man who knows the game inside out and is well respected by the lads”.

Saturday’s Cup final pits Avenue against Lifford which the ex-Éire Óg footballer labels as “a good town rivalry which is a novel pairing, it’s been 28 years since we met in a final, it is something to

look forward to for the neutral and the lads around town”.

Though the day job is with Signature Flight Sport in Shannon where he has been for twenty one years, David notes that the role of Avenue Utd manager is “all consuming”.

He outlined, “I’ve pieces of paper, team sheets, tactics and boards all over the house, all the burst soccer balls are in the front garden, all the gear is in the shed, it is a full-time job but I wouldn’t have it any other way, Siobhan would tell you I’m a control freak and need to have everything in order and in control of everything”.

As regards personnel, Conor Mullen is ruled out with injury while they have been without Cian O’Dea and Alan Roche all season while Stephen Talty who was a new signing is no longer

part of their squad.

Squad depth and fitness were referenced by the Avenue boss on their way to the double last season. That depth has been evident with Dylan Barry stepping up to the plate at centre half in the absence of the experienced Mullen.

“You’re never going to keep everybody happy, down through the years when Newmarket were winning doubles they had 20 or 24 on their squad and you’d be thinking how could they keep everybody happy, you can’t, we had 19 togged out this morning, three lads were extremely disappointed not to get a run, they train as hard as the first 15 that have come on so you’re trying to justify and explain to them, give the reasons.

"We’ve great talent on the line like Philip Talty and Stephen Jordan who is back from injury, Gary Roche is back from holidays, Vinny is an elusive winger who has had his chance and is coming in and out, young Calum Barrett is another great player, they are all great players but they just need to bide their time and take their chance”.

Looking at the future of the Roslevan based club, Russell noted, “there’s very serious talent coming through, Paulie Roche keeps me informed on the 15s, 16s and 17s, they were beaten in a Cup final by Bridge Celtic on Saturday, the future is bright because we’re getting to finals and the underage academy is booming, I would hold no fears for the future coming up for Avenue”.

Hehir brothers hopeful for further Avenue glory

THEY will be at either side of the field on the Avenue Utd team but the Hehir brothers both share the same confidence that the club is more than capable of replicating its double success.

Avenue Utd had been waiting since 2013 for their first team to win some silverware, they ended that drought last season which also marked the debut year for both Conor and Mossy Hehir with the club’s A team.

Clarification is quickly provided by Mossy that they are brothers but not twins, “There’s a year and a half between us, we don’t look alike. We’ve been called twins before,” the elder Hehir aged 24 outlined. “I still get called Mossy enough anyway,” admitted the younger Conor aged 23, “lads on our team even call me Mossy”. His older brother interjects, “He’s mini-Mossy”.

Conor who graduated from TUS last year in Business with Computing is now working with an Athenry company doing data analysis while Mossy who graduated from UL two years ago is now working as a software automation engineer in Limerick for Kneat, quipping, “I’m the more intelligent one”. He added

that their parents Declan and Antoinette may be more satisfied with Conor’s work around the house rather than his.

Living in Roslevan, Mossy gave up the hurling this year due to load management. The brothers' competitive nature is well known within the Avenue set-up. “In training there Russ has to put us on the same team because we’d kick the

shit out of each other,” Mossy revealed. “I’d kick the shit out of him,” Conor clarifies. “Conor is probably our best defender, you will get infuriated trying to get past him,” Mossy adds.

With kind words voiced by Mossy, the opportunity for Conor to pay his older brother a compliment is offered but declined, “He’s stingy like that,” Mossy flagged.

Members of Conor’s underage group include right-back Cullen McCabe and midfielder Eoghan Thynne while striker Elias Kunz would have been competing against them at Ennis Town with Conor McDaid part of their side but he has since moved onto Newmarket Celtic.

In defence, Conor and Dylan Casey continue at left-back and centre-half respectively while injury has ruled out Conor Mullen giving Dylan Barry the chance to step in while Jamie Roche and last season’s right back Cullen McCabe battle for the number two jersey. Life in defence is different without the experienced Mullen, admitted Conor, "but Dylan Barry and Jamie Roche have both stepped in well, we’ve enough players on the bench to step up”.

Making a breakthrough last season was “massive” in the eyes of Conor, “it was big for us, Newmarket have dominated for so long but to get the breakthrough was massive”. Mossy added, “Because we were a new team, it was a new dynamic, we hadn’t played with each other before, there was a really good energy to it, we had nothing

to fear, we didn’t fear them and I still think that is the same, I know Newmarket have won the FAI but I don’t think it phases us, we know we can beat them no matter what and we have beaten them before, we can beat them and we can beat Lifford at the weekend”.

A chance to do two in a row in both competitions is something to grab, Conor maintained. “It would be unreal to be fair, looking at all the success Newmarket have had recently it would be good to try get one over them in the League and that can hopefully start by beating Lifford on Saturday”.

There is a lot to play for with the focus first on Lifford and then Newmarket Celtic in the League but Conor is confident they can upset the FAI Junior Cup champions. “There’s a lot to play for, we’re confident, we know we can beat them, we’re good enough, we just can’t play it into their hands, they are good from set pieces which may not be our strong point but we know we can hurt them. We’ve enough talent up front to cause them problems, if we have to play them twice or whatever we think we can get the job done”.

Mossy and Conor Hehir

Photo by John Mangan

Fiachra thrives in Lifford return

by

McMahon news@clareecho.ie

A SECOND stint with Lifford

FC is proving to be a fruitful one for Fiachra Roche who has observed a considerable increase in the commitment - and improvement in their fortunes.

Corofin native Fiachra was the number one target for Lifford

FC boss Adrian Walsh when he prepared for his first full season as manager having taken charge before the halfway mark of the previous campaign.

Roche had previously played alongside Walsh when Lenny Franks got him to sign for Lifford in 2018. He returned to his home club Corofin Harps after this but accepted the call to rejoin the Ennis club last summer. “Walla has always kept in touch, at the end of last season he dropped a message and was keeping me in my mind. He rang me in June and told me his plans, he said to come and give it a year to see what I think, I’ve been loving it since,” he recalled.

Playing in the Premier Division was among the main motivations for Roche’s return. “I’ve been playing ball since I was five or six with Corofin all the way through, I went abroad for a while, came back and played

a bit here and there. I’ve always been with Corofin until Lenny gave me a call back in 2018. I wanted to play in the Premier Division, to play at the top level for as long as I can, it’s well organised here”.

Fiachra and captain John Maher are the only players in the Lifford line-up with experience of playing in a Clare Cup final. Midfielder Roche was part of the Corofin Harps side defeated by Newmarket Celtic in the 2013 final while Maher featured for Lifford B in 2011 the last time they featured in the Cup final. “These days don’t come around too often, we have to enjoy it. Back in 2013, I thought I’d be back in the Cup final in another two or three years but I’ve barely seen a semi-final since. I’ve said it to the boys to go out and enjoy it, even winning the Hugh Kelly. those days don’t happen too often, it is where we want to be as a club.”

Thirty-one year old Fiachra is unequivocal in his view that the commitment levels with Lifford now is a central reason for their run to the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup final. “Walla has us all buying into what he wants us to do, everyone is committed, even when we had bad games or bad trainings nobody has fall-

en away, this year everyone has bought into what we want to do, we all have the same goal.”

Reflecting on the season thus far, he told The Clare Echo, “We’ve done pretty well, our goals were to get a top three finish, get to a League Final and to a Clare Cup final, we’ve done the three of them. I don’t think anyone gave us much of a hope at the start of the season but we caught Avenue on the hop and got on a roll with five or six games. We got beat by Newmarket here, we’ve had a few poor games but overall we’ve had a good year."

They did wear the favourites tag for the semi-final against Tulla Utd, the outcome of which was decided on penalties. Their poor performance in this outing meant the atmosphere in the dressing room at Frank Healy Park was quite deflated, he admitted. “We were so disappointed, even in the dressing room getting to a Cup final everyone was so disappointed in the dressing room, nobody said anything but we knew we didn’t perform”.

Lifford started the season by beating Avenue Utd in the first game of the Premier Division, they want to finish off their campaign with the same result.

“I think we caught them on the

hop, I don’t think anyone gave us a chance, they came up here and beat us in the Munster Junior Cup and narrowly again in the League. They are a really strong side, they are League and Cup champions, it will be a very tough test and we’ll have to be at our best but we’ll give it a go”.

A driver with Cummins Tarmacadam, Fiachra has received plenty of support from his native Corofin after making the move back to Lifford.

“A good few lads like Brian Halpin, Jason Tierney and Damien Ryan they were all at the League final and supporting us, they’ve all been good to me and wished me well. Josh Ryan is from Corofin too, he joined us in January and has been a good addition, it’s good to have him on board, he is playing well this season”.

Sunday saw them suffer a narrow 1-0 defeat to Newmarket Celtic which served as ideal preparation for the Cup final. “These are the games you want to play, you want to play the FAI champions a week before the Cup final and put in a performance that will stand to us, it’s a perfect run in for us”.

Walla hopes derby will awaken 'sleeping giant' in Lifford

NOT ALONE do Lifford FC have a chance to win a fourth Clare Cup title but it is also an opportunity for the Ennis club to make a statement that they are back at the top table of soccer in the county, writes Páraic McMahon

1976 was the last time Lifford won the Cup and also the most recent appearance of their first team in the decider; the B team lost the 2009 decider to Rineanna Rovers.

When speaking to The Clare Echo prior to the start of the season, Lifford manager Adrian Walsh labelled Lifford as “a sleeping giant”, success on Saturday would be its reawakening.

Speaking this week, Walla confirmed that both centre-halves John Allen and Johnson Munukum are set to miss the final through injury.

Renewing Lifford’s reputation as an adult force was the focus for the 41-year old at the beginning of the year. “I came in a third of the way through last season, it was about staying in the league, stabilising and seeing what we have. This year was a steady progression, seeing what players we had and what we needed, what lads were about, the commitment levels, figuring out a style of play and how we wanted to go about things, the development of younger lads available to the club”.

He continued, “For the players we didn’t set out anything, as a management

team myself, Rhys Phillips, Gary McNaboe, Eddie Killeen and John Maher the captain, we went for dinner, we talked and reviewed the last season.

"I said this is what we should be targeting this year, we got to a Cup semi-final last year, we got beaten 1-0 after extra time by Newmarket and were unlucky not to get to the Cup final, we wanted to go one better, get a good run in the League Cup and finish in the top three if at all possible. We’ve achieved the three of them...no matter what way you look at it for me and for the club, it’s been a good year”.

Walsh was part of the Lifford B team which contested the 2009 final while he also represented the club’s A team plus Ennis Town, Hermitage and Turnpike.

Among the players he faced off with on the field was current Avenue Utd manager, David Russell. “I had great battles with him, he is a bit older than me now but any time we played each other you’d know what you would get, tough and fair is the way to describe it, wears his heart on his sleeve, passionate. Rivals on the pitch when we were playing against each other and it will be no different on Saturday.

"Ennis is a small place, the lads know each other inside out. I’m looking forward to renewing acquaintances”.

Saturday’s result is likely to influence young footballers'

based in Ennis as to which club they might join but Walla is adamant Tom Steele Park is the destination they should

be choosing, regardless. “Lifford is the place to come to in my eyes, it has always been a development club even back

to my younger days, there’s always been players that have come through Lifford’s academy, I’m coaching in the academy myself and the focus is on the player, that’s not having a dig at any other club, I know what is going on in our club and I know what is going on in the past, having the likes of Alan Brooks push on and have a career in England, Barry Cotter who will be playing in Wembley soon, he came through our academy. We are the development club in the county, we have the most decorated coach in the county in Declan Farmer, he is a UEFA Elite A-licence coach, for any young lad that wants to be developed to play football this is the place to be.

"Ennis is a big town but in my personal opinion there’s too many clubs, people might not like to hear that but there’s no reason why there can’t be a Clare team in the League of Ireland, there should be. There will always be rivalries”.

Turning his attentions to Saturday, Walla notes, “We’re under no illusion what we have to face us, from the off it’s never been about winning and losing because when it’s winning and losing that brings a fear element in my personal opinion, it’s always been about performance.

"I don’t like losing but I’ve no problem a result not going our way if we perform. All I ask lads is to play football

and perform to the best of their ability, results seem to have a habit of taking care of themselves when the performance goes right,” the self-employed bricklayer added.

Barry Ryan’s addition to the management before the end of 2022 has been a big addition. “You can’t be having a lad as good as him not involved, not alone on the goalkeeper coaching but a good lad and a football man. I told him my plans, I asked him to come on board, it has gone from there, he’s gone from goalkeeper coach to number two”.

They currently have two netminders to choose from, Rhys Phillips gave man of the match displays in their early season win over Avenue Utd while Peadar O’Keeffe was between the posts for the semi-final .“Between Rhys and Peadar they have been giving each other a good go since Peadar came in. We played Avenue in the first game, Rhys was man of the match, he was man of the match against Bridge, he is a big game player, a good lad with solid commitment. In terms of the squad whether it be number one or number two, nine or ten it doesn’t matter whoever comes in is as good as the lad that is coming out.”

l Fiachra Roche

Photo by John Mangan

Páraic

Lifford FC manager, Adrian Walsh Photo by John Mangan

CUP FINAL: LIFFORD FC VS AVENUE UNITED

JOHN ALLEN JOHN MAHER JOHNSON MUNUKUNU

EOIN MONAGHAN

FIACHRA ROCHE GARY McNABOE

HAMED KUKU

NIALL GUINANE

KEITH SHEA

MATT DAVENPORT

NATHAN REZENDE

CHUCKS ABADEYI DANIEL DALY EDDIE KILLEEN

ENNIS CARPETS CLARE

ALL PHOTOS BY JOE BUCKLEY

MANAGEMENT: ADRIAN WALSH & BARRY RYAN

PAUL MARTIN

RHYS PHILLIPS ZAC GUILFOYLE

MANAGEMENT: DAVID O'GRADY, OLIVER FITZPATRICK & DAVID RUSSELL

GARY ROCHE JAMIE ROCHE LUKE WOODROW

DYLAN BARRY

DYLAN CASEY ELIAS KUNZ

EOGHAN THYNNE

NNABUIKE NNEJI

MARK ROCHE MIKEY DINAN

MOSSY HEHIR

CALUM BARRETT CONOR HEHIR CULLEN McCABE

VINCENT ONOUHA

PHILIP TALTY RONAN KERIN STEPHEN JORDAN

Rás Tailteann rolls into the Banner

l Barefield was finish line of Stage 2 of last weekend's Rás Tailteann, which saw Conor McGoldrick (left) in the yellow jersey after his stage win; (right) a rider shows the trials and tribulations of top level cycling. Burren CC represented the Banner County after entering a Clare team in Rás Tailteann

Double delight for Albert Mullins

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

THERE were three heats of the GoGreyhoundRacing.ie A2 Tri-Distance Stake down for decision on Saturday night’s Galway card with the opening heats over the 525 yards trip.

In the opening heat, Balroebuck Dream came away best to lead on the run towards the bend ahead of Annadown Loki and Newport Pier who then switched inside to strike the front on the rails rounding the opening bend. Turning down the back the Mullins-Curtin Syndicate of Gort owned Newport Pier quickly opened up a three length advantage over Balroebuck Dream and again tracking superbly around the third bend the daughter of Droopys Sydney & Cantcallherthat powered up the straight to defeat Balroebuck Dream by four and a half lengths in 28.76.

The double was initiated in the second heat of the stake as the Noel Gavin of Ballyea owned Ballyea Scrutiny led at the opening bend on his way to a two and a half length victory over Hunters Val in 29.10. Headed from traps by Barnora Bella on his inner the son of Droopys Buick and Flandys Hawkeye moved up outside the leader as they rounded the opening bend. Turning down the back Ballyea Scrutiny kicked three lengths clear of his rivals as Hunters Val and Colossal Venture tried to bridge the gap but out front Ballyea Scrutiny was in control as he stayed on well to complete the Albert Mullins kennel double.

Racing opened with an A6 graded 525 yards contest and in the early strides Ballyfort Max led the charge in the centre of the track towards the opening bend and rounding the bend the Thomas O’Connor of Ennistymon owned Hastalavistababy slipped through along the rails to head Ballyfort Max as Cillowen Recruit followed him through to move second approaching halfway . Out front though Hastalavistababy was making the best of his way home as he stayed on well to land the pore by three and three quarter lengths in 30.38.

Turree Treaty was away best in the S5 graded contest with Bayview Fantasy also away well enough along the rails. Approaching the opening bend the Joe Clancy of Kilrush owned Bayview Fantasy moved through along the rails to take a fractional advantage on his rivals. Racing between the two bends little separated the front four of the field but off the home been the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Bayview Fantasy (Premier Fantasy-Bayview Flyer) kicked on to defeat Turree Treaty by three & a half lengths in 19.51.

In race five, the Michael and Alanna Browne of Cree owned Burnpark Ronaldo

registered his eighth career success from eighteen starts as he held the late challenge of Six O’Clock News by three parts of a length at the line in 19.16. Away well from his trap six berth in company with Caislean Honcho towards the inner Burnpark Ronaldo led on the wide outside approaching the opening bend and cutting towards the rail the son of Watchman and Burnpark Grainne kicked three lengths clear bit on the run home Six O’Clock News closed with every stride but the line was always coming in time for the winner.

On last Thursday night in Limerick there was four Clare owned winners,

First in the winner’s enclosure was Billys Red for Cratloe’s Gerry Manly, a son of Droopys Roddick and Toras Lacey he crossed the line in 29.37 to record career win number four.

Snuggie Jasper recorded his fifth career win for Newmarket on Fergus’s Myles Cummins, a son of Paddys Magic and Miles Girl, his winning time was 29.21.

There was a fine performance from Droney Said No in an A3 contest, a daughter of Droopys Sydney and Estimate, she recorded career win number three in 29.31, Droney is owned by the Kildysart/Cranny based dontellpettycoatgovernment syndicate and is trained by Tulla’s Donie Duggan.

In the novice 525 contest of the evening, Oakwood Hero came up trumps for Ciaran Cooney from O’Callaghan Mills, a son of Laughil Blake and Lemon Phyton, his winning time was 29.64.

CONOR FLANAGAN:

It was with deep sadness that the sudden passing of Conor Flanagan of Clouna, Ennistymon, was received last week.

Conor was involved in greyhounds all his life and was a regular racegoer at Galway and Limerick. Abely assisted in the training of dogs by his father Tom Flanagan and was responsible for the Flandys and Dromoher prefix’s which carried many successes for the duo.

The pinnacle of Conor’s racing career came with the track record breaking run of his beloved bitch Flandy, trained by his father Tom. She clocked 58.85 for the 1010 yard marathon trip around Galway in 2008. The record still stands to this day. He was a great character who will be sorely missed by those that knew him. Sincerest condolences to his partner Christina, his beloved children Ryan and Megan, his parents Thomas and Stella, his sister Ann Marie, brother Brian, extended family, and many friends. The death also took place recently of Betty Griffin, Caherea ,Lissycasey. Betty was wife of Martin Griffin a huge supporter of Greyhound racing, we extend our sincere sympathy to Martin, his family ,extended family and there many friends.

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKACARN, INAGH,

CO. CLARE

Further Information/ Revised Plans

Planning Ref: P23/68

Development Description: a new farm house, farm shed, site entrance, domestic wastewater treatment system and associated site works and services.

Location: Knockacarn, Inagh, Co. Clare

Take notice that Shane Martin has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P23/68. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL NEWHALL HOUSE, NEWHALL,

ENNIS, CO. CLARE

Further Information / Revised Plans

Planning Ref: P23-60020

Development Description:

Permission to a) Renovate and extend gate lodges (protected structures under RPS No: 057) b) Install wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter to serve gate lodges. c) Renovate Newhall House to include, alterations, installation of en-suites, reinstatement of upper level of main staircase, mechanical & electrical upgrades, installation of fire prevention measures, decoration, installation of lift and creation of 4.No. accommodation suites d) Install new septic tank and packaged media filter system to serve Newhall House. e) Alter roof profile and Install photovoltaic panels on barn together with all associated site development works and services.

Newhall House is a protected structure RPS No:057

Location: Newhall House, Newhall, Ennis, Co. Clare

Take notice that Transmoor Ltd has lodged significant further in-

formation in respect of the planning application P23/60020. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL. BRISLA EAST, COORACLARE, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE, V15NY02. Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane.ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Carmel & Paddy Harvey for planning permission for the following development to the existing dwelling at the above address: (a) modifications to front entrance porch; (b) to construct a single storey extension to side and rear of the existing dwelling, to include revised internal layout; and (c) to upgrade existing attic space including provision of access stairs and 2 no. additional roof windows, along with all associated ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BALLINTLEA SOUTH, CRATLOE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www. diarmuidkeane.ie) intend

to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Kiran & Damien Browne for planning permission to change the use of part of the existing dwelling house from private residential to pre-school room along with all associated site works and retention permission to retain minor elevational changes to the building at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, MAIN STREET, KILMIHIL, CO. CLARE.

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www. diarmuidkeane.ie) intend to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Stan Lineen for planning permission to change the use of the existing building from disused warehouse to a building design projection centre along with all associated site works & services; and retention permission to retain minor elevational changes to the building at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the ap-

plication may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL. SEAFIELD, QUILTY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane.ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Finn & Gayle Killeen for planning permission to demolish the existing dwelling house and to construct a new replacement dwelling house, private garage and carport, along with all associated ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL NO.3 (YARD), BARRACK STREET, ENNIS, CO.CLARE

Take notice that Danese Cooper, Daneseworks

Ltd., seeks Permission for a Change of Use at No.3 (Yard), Barrack Street, Ennis, Co.Clare from a (previous) Car Hire ServiceYard to an Open Air Eatery with, Ice Cream Vending Unit, Toilet / Sluice Room Facilities and a Steel Frame Gazebo at above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council Buildings, Ennis during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by Clare County Council of the application.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL BRECKINISH, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO.CLARE

Take notice that Gerard Hannon intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted unit and associated site works at the above address. The planning application maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MERCHANTS QUAY BUILDING, DRIMNA, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Cleome Limited are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to install a passenger lift to the rear of merchants quay building and to install roof lights on existing roof structure. This devel-

opment is located in Protected structure RPS Number 858 (Quay Mills). The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYVULLAGAN, DARRAGH, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Tomás Gavin is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct a new dwelling house, new entrance, access road, private garage and install a new wastewater treatment system along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ATTYCRISTORA, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE

Further Information / Revised Plans.

Planning Ref: P22/918

Development Description: planning permission to: construct a dwelling house, car port, garage with home office, entrance from public road, wastewater treatment system and all associated site works.

Location: Attycristora, Lahinch, Co. Clare. Take notice that Alan &

Loraine O’Brien have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P22/918. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site note by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ARDNACRAA, LISCANNOR,

CO CLARE

Take notice that Fiona Considine and Conor Cawley intend to apply for PERMISSION to build a dwelling house, install a wastewater treatment system & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

ROOF MOSS