The Clare Echo 25/11/21 by The Clare Echo

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Mother learned of daughter’s death over Facebook PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

COUNTY Clare mother who says she learned of her daughter’s death via Facebook messenger is calling on nextof-kin guidelines to be reviewed. Killaloe native Mary O’Shea, who lives in Meelick, was informed of her daughter’s death when a former co-worker messaged her on Facebook to pass on her sympathies. It would take a total of 15 hours before she received official confirmation that her daughter had died. Ms O’Shea’s daughter Aisling was laid to rest last December, and approaching the first

anniversary of her death, she is highlighting how next of kin guidelines are depriving loved ones of information. There is no legally defined meaning to next of kin in medical law in Ireland. Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) asked the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly (FF) to amend “the next-of-kin rule in order that both parents of single adults who are hospitalised are down as the point of contact rather than just one when applicable” on the back of representations by Mary. In response to Deputy Crowe’s parliamentary question, the HSE acknowledged that referring to individuals as next of kin in case of emergencies can be “misleading”.

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FULL STORY pg 10

l Mary O’Shea at her home in Meelick Co.Clare with her daughter Aisling’s Memory Box.

Photograph: Natasha Barton

2 NEWS

Index NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

SPREADING HOPE THIS FESTIVE SEASON

2-23

ENTERTAINMENT

GREENER CLARE

RECRUITMENT

29-33

CLICK FOR CLARE

32-36

PROPERTY

38-39

SPORT

40-43

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

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Prolonged closure of Doolin Coast Guard is ‘not an option’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

N URGENT independent inquiry needs to examine the central management system of the Irish Coast Guard, a Clare TD has said. As first reported by The Clare Echo, former Workplace Relations Commission Chair Kieran Mulvey has been appointed as an independent mediator to oversee talks aimed at reaching a resolution between the Irish Coast Guard and its Doolin unit following the resignation of six members and it being subsequently stood down. Matters need to be taken further, Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) believed. “The Irish Coast Guard, it appears to me, is in a state of organisational rot”. He claimed that members of the Coast Guard are “afraid to raise issues” for fear of retribution by way of disciplinary action. Crowe said it was time to get back Doolin Coast Guard back up and running. “All Doolin Coastguard volunteers live locally and are ready to respond within minutes. Other stakeholders, which are now expected to provide cov-

VITAL: Coastguard Photo by Brian Arthur er are too far away – the Kilkee Coast Guard Unit is 55 km away; the fire brigade based in Ennistymon 18km away; the Civil Defence in Ennis is 32km away. Perhaps most worryingly of all, the Aran Island lifeboat, operating in average sea conditions, takes about 60 mins, including launch time to get from Inis Mór to Doolin. The average launch time at Doolin is 15 to 20 minutes”.

He concluded, “a prolonged closure simply isn’t an option. We need action to be taken immediately to address the issues present in the Irish Coast Guard, for the safety of the volunteers but moreover to allow them to effectively continue to save the many lives they save on an annual basis. There is no other option here – we can’t afford to put this on the long finger.”

Shannon to Malta to take ﬂight in March by PÁRAIC McMAHON SHANNON Airport’s ﬁrst ever scheduled service to Malta is to take flight in March. It will operate twice weekly, commencing from 27th March and running to 27th October 2022. Malta is expected to be a popular destination with holidaymakers and brings to 20 the number of Ryanair services available from Shannon Airport next summer. Speaking previously to The Clare Echo, Ryanair CEO Eddie Wilson outlined that the long-term cost deal agreed between the airline and Shannon Airport running for the next eight to nine years would offer “a template to grow” services from the International Airport. CEO of Shannon Group,

Mary Considine predicted the service will become a busy one. “We know that restoring connectivity is important to our airport customers and that is why we have been working hard with our airline partners to create exciting holiday opportunities”. She added, “We are delighted to be able to offer our airport customers another great destination. This brings to 20 the number of destinations Ryanair will serve from Shannon next summer including the three new Ryanair services which began operation last month to Fuerteventura, Birmingham and Budapest. The Malta service is part of Ryanair’s summer schedule including over 60 weekly flights from Shannon to 20 destinations.

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THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

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6 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Anger reaching boiling point over pyrite redress scheme

‘Not good enough’ for community centre to be closed by PÁRAIC McMAHON

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE’s inclusion in a pyrite redress scheme is coming under threat with the Department of Housing accused of delaying tactics. Anger is building among members of the Clare Pyrite Action Group over the actions of the Department of Housing, who as of last week said they needed further information to an application submitted by Clare County Council in July to extend the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme to the county. The Clare Echo understands that senior officials in the Council were informed by the Department that they were not satisfied with the level of detail provided in the report. €80,000 has been spent by the Council trying to prove the presence of pyrite in Clare. Hundreds of houses in Clare are believed to have pyrite, many of which will need to be demolished due to the severity of the damage. Founder of the Action Group, Dr Martina Cleary told The Clare Echo, “there’s delaying strategies and tactics going on, they are moving the goalposts for Co Clare”. She said that no written records of

REDRESS: Dr Martina Cleary and Mary Hanley listen to the contributions of the county’s Oireachtas members

the Department’s requests for additional information or explanations on what is missing from the application from the Council have been provided. “We have been very patient and controlled but it is time to take a stand,” the Crusheen woman stated. Protests are to be organised by the Action Group with a town hall meeting to take place at Treacy’s West County Hotel at 8pm on Friday December 3rd. She stated, “The Department are playing games and it is disgraceful. We only have to look at the Clare report from

Photo by Natasha Barton

the Mother and Baby Homes to see how shamefully this Department has treated Clare people in the past”. Members of the Action Group have been encouraged to contact Coleman Legal Partners via email on defectiveblocks@colemanlegal.ie as part of a legal case which aims to include homeowners from all counties impacted by pyrite and mica. Dr Cleary urged people that know there is pyrite in their house but haven’t yet joined the Action Group to do so urgently.

TEN years on from initial calls to reopen the community centre in John Paul Estate, Kilrush, a new funding application has breathed new hope that the facility can be brought back to life. In October of this year, a funding application was submitted to the Housing Finance Agency by Clare County Council with the support of Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) to initiate necessary works. The local authority has committed to give match funding if this bid is successful. Interest has recently been expressed by the Community Substance Misuse Team for the MidWest into using the John Paul Estate community centre as a location for outreach support in Kilrush. Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) at its most

recent meeting asked that an investigation be undertaken “into the scope of any works necessary to reopen the community centre in John Paul Est Kilrush, their costs, and a projected timeline for a schedule of those works, including any phases, that would facilitate its opening as soon as possible”. Acting senior executive officer, John O’Malley advised that the Council had been “for some time” considering the works and associated costs required to reopen the centre plus its potential uses. “It is closed and it’s not good enough, several millions of euros were spent across the road doing the Vandeleur Walled Gardens and the Turret Lodge, I’m not saying it should be either or but it is not good enough to not use this community facility,” Cllr Murphy remarked.

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THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Convicted killer escapes jail for drug dealing oﬀence

by GORDON DEEGAN

CONVICTED killer who was at the centre of a political controversy more than a decade ago has escaped jail for a drugs offence. This follows Judge Brian O’Callaghan at Ennis Circuit Court imposing a two year suspended sentence on Christopher Cooney of Derrylough, Killimer who pleaded guilty to the sale and supply of €8,900 worth of cannabis in March 2019 at the same address. Now aged 58, Mr Cooney was jailed for life in 1992 for the murder of market gardener, Robert Lynch (22) from Bantry, Co Cork in the Banner Arms pub in Ennis in February 1991. In January 2007, then Fianna Fail Minister for Labour Affairs and Clare TD, Tony Killeen apologised to the Lynch family after it emerged that his constituency office had sent two letters in 2003 to the then Minister for Justice, Michael McDowell seeking the early release of Mr Cooney.

Minister Killeen stated at the time that the letters were sent without his knowledge. The representations by the Clare TD’s office had no success as Mr Cooney continued to serve his life term in jail and Mr Cooney was released on licence in 2006. Imposing the suspended prison term on Mr Cooney at Ennis Circuit Court, Judge O’Callaghan said that he was satisfied that Mr Cooney was at no risk of re-offending and that he was suspending the two year sentence "due to the exceptional circumstances that apply in the case". Judge O’Callaghan stated that Mr Cooney was “the store man” for the drugs and that he had done it out of decency towards his then girlfriend to avoid pressure being put on her by another person. Judge O’Callaghan stated that he was absolutely satisfied that Mr Cooney “had no intention in involving himself in the drug dealing trade”. Counsel for Mr Cooney, Patrick Whyms BL stated Mr Cooney was not receiving any money for hold-

Ennis Courthouse Photo by John Mangan

ing on to the drugs and Garda David King stated that Mr Cooney was due to receive a small amount of cannabis. Garda King stated that the drugs were found in a sports bag under a bed in Mr Cooney’s caravan which is located on his father’s lands. Mr Whyms stated that Mr Cooney had no idea how much the drugs were worth. Mr Whyms stated that Mr Cooney has been the carer for his terminally ill father and a brother who has special needs. Mr Whyms said that they

CLARE LEADER FORUM ARE HOLDING A

VIRtUaL CONcERt

are entirely dependent on him. He said: “Mr Cooney has devoted his life for over a decade to his father and brother who both needed him”. Mr Whyms stated that the DPP recommended that the matter be treated in the district court on a guilty plea only. Mr Whyms said that Mr Cooney placed himself at higher risk by pleading not guilty with the matter going to the circuit court. Mr Whyms said that Mr Cooney did this so that he would be around to care for his father as he wasn’t expected to last two years

at the time. “Miraculously with the assistance of Mr Cooney and the various services, he is still alive.” Mr Whyms stated that Mr Cooney put himself “into an extraordinary mess not just for himself but for those people he loves, his father and his brother”. In an interview with Gardai, Mr Cooney stated “I have made a complete cock up of my life”. Mr Whyms stated that Mr Cooney was an alcoholic at the time of fatally stabbing his victim in 1991 and hasn’t had a drink since entering prison for the offence. Mr Whyms stated that Mr Cooney is ‘gobsmacked’ by placing himself in this position. Judge O’Callaghan told Mr Cooney that it is clear from Probation Services and the Gardai that he is a most supportive carer for his father and brother. Judge O’Callaghan stated that Mr Cooney had delayed his plea of guilty for the circuit court “for decent family reasons”. Judge O’Callaghan stated that the amount of drugs is not insignificant but that Mr Cooney had “a very minor involvement”.

Solidarity for International Day of Disabled People

 GIG: Fionnathan

TO MARK INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITY VIRTUAL CONCERT THEME

WAStED LIVES FOR YOUNG PEOPLE IN NURSING HOMES 8 SINGERS AND DANCERS ANNE RYNNE - ANNMARE FL ANAGAN - L AS PADDY - MARIE GRIFFIN - FIONNATHAN - SHANNON SISTERS - SARAH AND MARTIN ON SAVE THE POST OFFICE FIELD. AND DONNELLAN DANCERS . MC IS AINE MAY CROWLEY.

C O N TA C T C L A R E L E A D E R F O U R M . C O M O R R I N G 0 8 7 2 74 0 0 7 9

by MUIREANN McGRATH “RIGHTS, not charity,” that is the motto of the Clare Leader Forum, who will be organizing an online concert on the 3rd of December for International Day of Disabled People. The concert will begin at 7pm on YouTube and will include guests such as local singer Anne Rynne, the Shannon sisters and social entrepreneurs Fionnathan. Links to the free concert will be available from clareleaderforum@gmail.com. The concert is one of the many ways the Clare Leader Forum draws attention to the human rights of those

with disabilities. This year, they aim to raise awareness of the situation young disabled people ﬁnd themselves in. “At least 1,300 young disabled people are living in nursing homes without their consent,” Ann Marie Flannagan of the Clare Leader Form stated, “which is depriving them of their liberty”. The Clare Leader Forum wants to ensure that anyone living in County Clare in nursing homes against their will are supported. “We just really want everyone to join in, it’s a celebration” continued Ann Marie,

who will also be singing on the night. “This is about raising awareness, it’s about solidarity, it’s about being an allyship to each other as human beings. We just ask that everybody remembers that at the end of the day, regardless of our lives experiences, whether it’s disability, ethnicity or any other issue what we have in common is that we’re all part of the human race, that we all share links equally and we all have the same human rights”. The Clare Leader Forum encourages everyone to get involved and help promote the equal treatment of disabled people.

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Mother waited 15 hours to hear of daughter’s death PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

 HEARTBROKEN: Mary O'Shea at her home in Meelick Co.Clare with her daughter Aisling's Memory Box Photo by Natasha Barton

IFTEEN hours passed before a South Clare mother was informed that her daughter died despite repeated attempts to source information prompting her to seek changes to how family members are updated in hospital settings. Killaloe native Mary O’Shea’s beloved daughter Aisling was buried last December. Approaching the first anniversary of her death, she is highlighting how next of kin guidelines are depriving loved ones of information. “Aisling was so good-natured, everyone said to me about her smile, even the priest said it at her funeral about her smile, she had a smile on her face that would light up a room, she loved animals and would do any turn for anyone. Even when she was so ill, she asked me to get sweets and a thank you card for the 3D ward and ICU staff because they were so kind to her,” Mary outlined. Two weeks after returning to work in SuperValu, Aisling suffered a fall last September where she sustained two broken fingers on her left hand and a fractured elbow on her right side. For the 13 years prior to this she had a kidney disease, her mother recalled. She was admitted to University Hospital Limerick and later contracted COVID-19, becoming critically unwell in intensive care. Visitor restrictions meant that Mary and members of the family were unable to physically visit Aisling. “It was very hard, the only consolation was that Aisling could ring me on her mobile until she was going to ICU and was put into an induced coma, so many families all over the world had to go through this, it’s not just me, it makes the situation so much harder when you can’t go and see them,” Mary stated. Fourteen years ago, Mary and Aisling’s father Alan divorced. He was listed as next of kin for Aisling,” she explained. In 1996, Mary had her case accepted as admissible by the European Commission of Human Rights in Strasbourg after she was committed to a psychiatric hospital against her will. On foot of an application by her then husband, Mary was committed against her will to St Joseph's Hospital in Limerick in 1988 under Section 184 (4) of the Mental Health Act 1945. She was released after three days. She received a payout of £14,000 plus legal expenses for this case. Relations between the pair have never recovered and lines of communication remained closed while Aisling was in hospital with neither Alan or any of their other three children keeping Mary informed on her condition. Daily attempts were made by Mary to get information from staff at UHL but staff said they were prevented from passing on any information as she was not listed as the next of kin. Mary can still vividly recall what was her last conversation with Aisling. “It was on the Friday that she was to be sent up to ICU to be put in an induced coma, she said ‘Mam

you don’t realise how sick I am, I’m in terrible pain, I’ve to turn my phone off because I’m going up to ICU’. I knew then that was going to be my last conversation with my daughter because she was going to be put in an induced coma, Aisling had a seizure, they tried to turn the bed to help with COVID, she survived that but the next seizure was the one that took her”. While Mary now knows that information, she was informed of her daughter’s death when a former co-worker messaged her on Facebook to pass on her sympathies. It would take a total of fifteen hours before she received confirmation that her daughter had died. “I think it is a disgrace in this day and age that a mother has to wait 15 hours before she finds out by making a phonecall to a hospital that her daughter passed away, I think it is a disgrace that the hospital and the family didn’t inform me. I rang the hospital every morning religiously. She would have definitely gone to the church without me knowing. I can’t describe it. I would gladly go through the pain of child birth any day of the week rather than the trauma of the situation I found myself in, it was unbearable,” she told The Clare Echo. An official complaint was lodged by Mary to UHL in April of this year over her experience trying to get information, failed attempts to have a video call and also claims of inaccuracies regarding the death certificate. As per hospital practice, the nominated next of kin is the point of contact in relation to a deteriorating patient “and it is the expectation of the ICU staff that the nominated next of kin will share this information with all other family members,” a response from the hospital to Mary explained. She has sought a review into this investigation. “It would be inappropriate for UL Hospitals Group to comment on this matter, which has been dealt with through our official complaints process. We continue to be available to engage directly with Ms O'Brien-O'Shea,” a spokesperson stated when questioned by The Clare Echo. Living in Meelick for the past two decades, Mary said “It is very raw still, so much so that I can’t speak for a long time about Aisling without breaking down crying because she is still my baby,” she said of the upcoming first anniversary. She has been unable to visit her daughter’s former place of employment due to how emotional it makes her feel. There is no legally defined meaning to next of kin in medical law in Ireland. Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) asked the Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly (FF) to amend “the next-of-kin rule in order that both parents of single adults who are hospitalised are down as the point of contact rather than just one when applicable” on the back of representations by Mary. In response to Deputy Crowe’s parliamentary question, the HSE acknowledged that referring to individuals as next of kin is case of emergencies can be “misleading”. Greater clarity is needed to avoid repeat scenarios, Mary stressed. “Don’t assume the person that put down as next of kin is passing on the information”.

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

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THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

‘Council refused €10m gift to fund community space’ Local Authority deny claim made by local businesses PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE County Council refused an offer of €10m to fund a community, civic, cultural and interpretative centre for Shannon, local business personnel have claimed. While Clare County Council have explicitly deny the claim, a Shannon-based businessman is believed to have made an offer to the local authority to fund The Venue, a project which failed to receive Government funding for four separate applications despite previous promises from local TDs that it would get €5m in the Budget of October 2017. Calculations detailed that €10.9m was required for the development of The Venue with an additional €0.9m for operational costs. Annual running costs were predicted to be between €600,000 and €800,000. From the period 2012 to 2015, a local group working on making the 2,600 sq me-

tre site a reality raised between €900,000 to €1m. A total of €850,000 in funding had been received, €15,000 of which came from Clare County Council, €48,000 from the REDZ programme and €40,000 in Shannon Festival fundraising. Expenditure incurred to date included €290,000 (acquiring site, engaged design, planning), €14,547 (accounting services), €7,653 (marketing) and €4,735 (insurance). Speaking at a meeting of Love Shannon Community Council in recent days, local businessman Darragh O’Connor outlined, “one thing has stuck in my mind over past few weeks. The Venue was something we all wanted, a businessman in this town offered to pay not as a loan but as a gift, offered to pay €10m to build The Venue as a gift to the people of Shannon but we were denied it”. He added, “This was a gift but we still don’t have it. The Council refused the Venue and the money, how do we put up with that and pay the highest rates in the county”. Retired journalist, Ron Kirwan flagged that nowhere in the county was considered for re-

generation only the bowways and laneways of Parnell St in Ennis. He said the development of a master plan for Shannon was only put in place to act as a comparison with the county town. “The venue I was told by one councillors that there was something suspicious about, it is shocking they would think about it like that but that’s the mentality”. “What’s shocking is Clare County Council went out and asked for a €10m loan for Ennis 2040 yet they were offered €10m a couple of months after The Venue and they said no,” founding member of Love Shannon, Niamh O’Callaghan responded. The area of land where the Venue was to be located is now valued at €350,000, she noted. “Ennis got a loan of €10m, we were being given a gift of €10m and nobody is going mad that we didn’t get it”. Kirwan in response flagged a company has been set up for Ennis 2040 and said the loan would be repaid. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Darragh expressed his view that the people of Shannon need to stand up and shout over the Council’s actions. “It is one thing for people to be giv-

ing out about Facebook but not wanting to help Love Shannon, if I was to give one reason to help Love Shannon there’s ten million, we’re being fobbed off everywhere, here is the ten million reasons to get involved with Love Shannon”. A spokesperson for the local authority told The Clare Echo, “In the interest of the public record, clarity and transparency, Clare County Council can confirm we have neither been offered or refused funding to develop a site in Shannon Town Centre”. The spokesperson added, “Clare County Council worked in partnership with the Venue Ltd., a consortium of local business people in Shannon, on a funding application in 2018 to develop a site in Shannon Town Centre. Unfortunately, the application was not successful and ‘The Venue’ project did not progress. The master planning process for Shannon Town Centre is nearing completion and it is our intention to develop key projects. If any offer of third-party funding is made to Clare County Council to support our efforts in Shannon Town Centre we will engage wholeheartedly”.

COMMUNITY: Love Shannon members, Darragh O’Connor, Elton Good, Brendan Wall & Derek Clune at the site of what could have been The Venue Photo by Joe Buckley

NEWS 13

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Conway appointed to international OSCE panel to represent people with disabilities

by STUART HOLLY INE Gael Senator Martin Conway has been appointed to a panel within the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to promote political participation of people with disabilities. Senator Conway was officially appointed to the advisory panel of the OSCE’s Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) after impressing the panel with his commitment in encouraging people with disabilities to become involved in politics. Senator Conway, who is the first visually impaired member of the Oireachtas, said: “As a life-long campaigner for equal opportunities and rights for those with disabilities, I am honoured to have been appointed to the ODIHR Advisory Panel on the Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities for a term of four years. “My role will involve providing advice, guidance and recommendations to ODIHR, and through ODIHR to the OSCE participating States, on matters related to the political participation of persons with disabilities. “The work includes the implementation of relevant OSCE commitments; legislation, policies and state practices; contributing to material related to the international framework for political participation of persons with disabilities; and educational and capacity building efforts. “It is so important to me that all people with disabilities are given the chance to participate in political and public life

Minister makes meeting despite electric car dying JUNIOR Minister, Ossian Smyth (GP) (inset) managed to make an important meeting of the National Broadband Ireland board on time in Newmarket-on-Fergus despite the battery on his electric car going dead, writes Páraic McMahon. Dun Laoghaire TD, Smyth who is Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications with responsibility for Communications and Circular Economy was left stranded in Limerick for a period on Friday last while travelling to Co Clare. He had travelled from Dublin but by the time he reached the Treaty County, the battery in his electric car had run dead prompting some worry among NBI representatives that the Junior Minister would miss the engagement at the newly renovated Tradaree social enterprise building in Newmarket-on-Fergus. A spokesperson for the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications confirmed to The Clare Echo that the Junior Minister attended a part of the Board meeting but was not present for other Board

business. “This was the first opportunity for an in-person board meeting in almost two years, due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Given the scope and scale of the NBP (National Broadband Plan) project, the Minister deemed it necessary to attend this board meeting in-person. The agenda for the Minister was to have an in-person introduction to the Board and to also be given an update on the network rollout”. Despite the setback en route, the first-time TD arrived early for the engagement and visited local NBP sites including the broadband connection point in Newmarket-on-Fergus having managed to find a charging point in Limerick.

to ensure there is full representation when it comes to policy making and the enacting of laws.” Senator Conway, Fine Gael’s Seanad Government Spokesperson on Justice and Equality, was first elected to Clare County Council in 2004 and subsequently to the Seanad in 2011. Fine Gael Leader and Tánaiste, Leo Varadkar, congratulated Senator Conway on his appointment. The Tánaiste said: “Sincerest congratulations to Senator Conway on his appoint-

ment to the OSCE ODIHR Advisory Panel on the Political Participation of Persons with Disabilities. “I have known Martin for many years and he is a passionate advocate for the disability community, ensuring their views are represented not just within the Fine Gael party, but also in the Seanad. This new role will allow him to pursue his dedicated work on disabilities issues on a global stage, in addition to his work in Ireland. I wish him every success in his new role.”

14 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Shannon Town’s future ‘requires a rebellion’

HANNON’s future requires a rebellion when it comes to the local elections according to passionate pleas at a Community Council meeting, writes Praic McMahon.

Love Shannon Community Group held a meeting at Treacy’s Oakwood Hotel on Wednesday night last where residents of the town spoke of the need for a change in how Shannon is treated by Clare

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County Council. Ron Kirwan, a former journalist with The Clare Champion and The Limerick Leader emphasised the elected people representing Shannon was key to its future. He

shared his view that Love Shannon had evolved from a group promoting the town. “Everyone knows we’re knocking our heads against the wall with Clare County Council. The key to Shannon’s future is taking control of our area. Only two of the seven councillors in our District are from Shannon, the others have no interest in the future of Shannon Town”. Ennis is the focus of county councillors, Ron stated. “There is a cosy cartel between Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael running our county and we need to break that consensus for Shannon Town’s future”. He recalled joining The Clare Champion in 1979, at the time he said 12,000 people worked Ennis but that the figure rose to over 30,000 now because of Shannon, “it has been used as a milk cow to feed the whole county”. He added, “What Shannon needs is seven young passionate people committed to future of the town. Approach people who are interested and ask people to back them in an election”. Kirwan continued, “If someone from Fianna Fáil gets in, they will do what they’re told and not what the people of Shannon want, the two Shannon councillors were the only ones to vote against the local property tax increase this year”. He said, “if they (Fianna Fáil and Fine

IRELAND’S PLACE IN A CLIMATE NEUTRAL EU

Gael) didn’t have the majority the whole agenda would be completely different, the agenda has been the same forever in Clare County Council. Stop the majority”. Co-founder of Love Shannon, Niamh O’Callaghan agreed that seven candidates from Shannon Town needed to run in the 2024 local election, she said that councillors “only come to Shannon for votes and photographs”. “Two councillors from Shannon Town is not enough,” Darragh O’Connor of Texaco Shannon commented. “We need the people to come out and vote for them. The people of Meelick, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus won’t do it for us,” Chairman of Love Shannon, Derek Clune remarked, he felt putting Love Shannon as a strong Community Council could lead to change and success. One speaker from the floor declared, “the easiest way to make change is to rattle the cages”. Another resident of the town suggested that Love Shannon run a candidate, “we have enough clubs and families, then we can frighten the Cratloe and Sixmilebridge crowd. Target a person that can represent us strongly. “We can get one from Sinn Féin in and one Independent representing us, one of the cosy big guys will lose their job”.

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THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

BEO Sleep Well is popping up this Christmas!

E SPEND about a third of our lives sleeping, so why not give the gift of a great night’s sleep this Christmas with BEO Sleep Well? Nationally renowned wellness brand BEO is the Irish translation for live, living - simply to be alive and well. It was inspired by the calming and therapeutic landscape of the West of Ireland to create their Sleep Well range, a collection that promotes sleep as a vital component of a person's overall health and well-being. Since launching in 2019 BEO Sleep Well has become the go-to wellness brand ranging from luxury organic sleep enhancing products, handmade Irish linen, pure mulberry silk and their super soft merino wool collection. The brainchild of founders Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan, both ladies are highly motivated and resourceful marketers with diverse experience ranging from media, public relations, education and event management. Combining their expertise, they focused their consultancy on the wellness arena, and so, BEO was born. BEO opened its ﬁrst brick-and-mortar retail space last week with a Pop-Up on 51 O’Connell Street in their hometown of Ennis. Having their very own physical store on home turf is very special for both founders. “We are so passionate about supporting local and our organic ingredients have all been sourced from sustainable and ethical sources in Co. Clare. To now showcase our collection in the heart of the county where BEO was born, a place that inspires so much of what we do, is nothing short of a dream come true,” said Sharon Connellan, BEO Wellness & BEO Sleep Well Co-Founder. The pop-up store concept has been gaining popularity in recent years. Pop-ups can be used for testing the waters in new mar-

WELLNESS: BEO Sleep Well founders Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan

Photo by Natasha Barton

kets, sampling new products or simply taking advantage of short-term marketing opportunities like gifting season. “The Pop-up retail model offers a way for us to both test the market and continue to trade through these uncertain times brought about by the pandemic. Yes, online has continued to grow for BEO but shopping remains an emotional experience. The importance of a physical in-store presence allows us to engage directly with our customer while also creating a meaningful retail experience,” commented Aoibhín Garrihy, BEO Wellness & BEO Sleep Well Co-Founder

BEO has successfully positioned BEO Sleep Well as a standalone brand which has very much grown into its own over the past two years. Since the start of COVID-19, BEO Sleep Well has been all about unapologetic relaxation, quality rest and contemporary luxury in the home. However continuing to expand and launch new products in a COVID-19-dominated world has been no mean feat. “You fall, you learn, and you get back up stronger – that’s what being a business is all about. We are learning every day as yesterday’s answer is often out of date. We

continue to monitor, to learn from, to review and to adapt. Despite so many variables, roadblocks and challenges faced, a physical store in our hometown of Ennis has brought us a unique level of pride and a real ambition to grow. We are excited for what’s next,” Aoibhín added. In all aspects of our lives we’ve settled into the new normal, but as a Small Business, BEO Sleep Well continues to prepare for the “next normal’, remaining relevant in the current economy and focusing their new lines on what is relevant to their customers mindset and that which addresses their new realities. “Physical stores are alive and well, and people still love visiting brick-and-mortar shops. Once we had our concept mapped out, we brought the space to life with installations designed by local talent, Donnellan Crafts and D2 Print. Supporting local was a big part of this journey and with Green Friday now on the horizon, highlighting the value of Small Business in Local Communities is arguably more important than ever,”Sharon concluded. BEO champions all things Green this weekend by asking customers to think more consciously about businesses within the community and how they can support them. With offers starting from today (Thursday) through to Sunday make BEO Sleep Well your Ultimate Gifting Destination! Stockists include Kilkenny Shops Nationwide, Arnotts, Dubin, Brown Thomas, Limerick and now their very own den of tranquillity in the heart of Ennis, Co. Clare ...BEO Sleep Well has your Wishlist and Gift List covered this Christmas. You can also shop their Limited Edition Gift Sets on www.beowellness.ie and ﬁnd the perfect gift for someone special or just a little treat for yourself!

Cosy Up This Christmas. . .

. . . with our luxury range of sleep enhancing gift ideas 51 O'Connell Street, Ennis

NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Rebekah’s best buys Style, Beauty and Lifestlye Rebekah Crerand

rebekah@clareecho.ie

ROCHFORD’S PHARMACY WITH it being Black Friday tomorrow and most stores having already started their sale, it’s definitely a prime time to start your Christmas Shopping! Rochfords Pharmacy Ennis has huge discounts on top brands this week with everything from the younger female to the perfect gift for your Mom this Christmas. There are some beautiful Mens gifts too. Also this week Rochfords Pharmacy have 20% off all premium brands in store only! For all the Mums this Christmas there is a beautiful Lancome Absolou Hamper which is reduced to only €209! The absolou range reduces the appearance of signs of skin ageing. Lancôme created Absolue Precious Cells Day Night and Eye Care, specially developed to help regenerate radiance and to help reduce the appearance of signs of skin ageing – skin looks smoother, feels softer. Another great offer in-store is The Mrs Glam bundle worth €74.85 reduced to €39.95! The Mrs Glam palette is so pigmented and is so easy to blend. The shadows are extremely good quality for the price and the colours are so wearable! The Peach elixir is beautiful as a base, giving that beautiful dewy finish to your skin while keeping it hydrated and nourished under your makeup.

FUJI WONDER PHOTO SHOP ENNIS

IF you are looking for a great gift this Christmas, then Fuji Wonder Photo Shop Ennis is the place to go this season. They have a huge range of Instax Cameras which makes for the perfect gift. They have various different varieties with the Mini 11 being targeted at younger teens or kids, the Mini 11 prints a wallet or credit card size print. The Sq1 is the more adult size camera and it prints that lovely square size photo that we all associate with Polaroid s t y l e photography. My personal favourite are the printers that is controlled by an app on your phone! It’s super easy to use anywhere you go. You can also add special effects as well as make collages. The printers are such a great purchase and would make a really nice gift for the woman in your life and would earn those few extra brownie points at Christmas!! I went to London last weekend and used the printer and got some really beautiful pictures, using the Mini Link Printer, using both special effects and ordinary colour. I think after the Pandemic, even the small things really matter and all the time spent with family and friends... what better way to capture all the special moments and events with family and friends than an instant print out of the moment!

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

NEWS

18 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

CSO to hire 137 Census Enumerators in Clare

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137 Census Enumerators are to be hired in Clare next year, writes Páraic McMahon. Enumerators can earn up to €3,200 for working 10 weeks part-time, between 28 February and 6 May 2022. An online application process opens on November 25th at www.census.ie. Census 2022 will take place on Sunday, 3 April next year. The results from the Census are vital to planning the future of public services in Clare and across the country. To deliver a successful Census the team of 137 enumerators will be required to deliver and collect census forms to approximately 43,000 households across the county. Speaking about the role of a Census Enumerator, Eileen Murphy, Head of Census Administration said “A Census Enumerator is a job that really counts. Those who undertake this rewarding position will be providing a valuable service to the people of Clare, by ensuring future policy decisions are made based on their community’s needs. “The job of Census Enumerator is highly flexible, so a perfect option for many people not in a position to

HEADCOUNT: Census enumerator commit to full time work. Over the 10 weeks enumerators will work approximately 22 hours per week and can largely pick their own hours. Each enumerator is responsible for the delivery and collection of around 400 census forms in their local area.” According to Eileen Murphy the role of Census Enumerator is best suited to a people person who enjoys meeting and engaging with new people. “It is important that you can work well

on your own. The job does require some persistence, as you may need to visit some homes multiple times to secure a response. Good weather in Spring in Ireland is not guaranteed, so you need to be ready for working outdoors in all weathers”. The application process is expected to remain open until 3 December. However early applications are recommended as the CSO will cease taking applications once they have reached the required number.

Let a loved one or friend choose their own Woodstock experience this Christmas. Give the gift of Choice with peace of mind that whatever way they choose to spend their voucher they will receive the gift of top service and style in beautiful surroundings at Hotel Woodstock, Ennis. Our Black Friday Sale has been extended to give you 20% Extra Free back on Gift Vouchers this Festive season. Don't miss out. Gift Vouchers can be purchased online, over the phone or with our Reception Team. Visit: www.hotelwoodstock.ie/vouchers

NEWS 19

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Tireless worker Ciaran O'Dea is laid to rest FORMER chairman of the Ennis Hospital Development Committee, Ciarán O’Dea has died, writes Páraic McMahon. Mullagh native Ciarán died this week following an illness with sporting bodies from multiple disciplines among those paying tribute to him while his tireless work in fighting for services at Ennis Hospital has also been remembered. Ennis Hospital Development Committee was set up to protect services at the hospital with Ciarán serving as its Chairman. He was heavily involved in soccer circles serving close to a decade as the secretary of the Clare Schoolboys/Schoolgirls Soccer League (CSSL). In a statement, the Clare District Soccer League (CDSL) said it was “saddened” to learn of his passing. “A dedicated football man, Ciarán served for many years on the Clare Schoolboys\girls committee where he held the position of Honorary Secretary”. O’Dea had an active involvement on and off the field with Moher Celtic. “Ciarán arrived to Moher Celtic many moons ago and brought with him a car full of boys and girls and a bag full of energy and ideas. Ciarán’s involvement both on and off the field, his wealth of knowledge in sport and a go to man has been so supportive to our club through the years,” Lahinch’s John Vaughan recalled. Ciarán spent time as the minor club chairman and club development officer with Kilmurry Ibrickane GAA. “He played a major role in securing grants for works carried out at our GAA grounds and overall he made a massive contribution in a variety of different ways,” club PRO Micheál Talty stated. His son Caoilfhionn currently lines out with Galway United and the club also issued a

statement to express their sympathies. “Ciarán has been a friend of the club for many years and was instrumental in helping us acquire critical funding to support the GUFC academy”. Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) said of the West Clare man, “I had the pleasure and real fun experiences, no matter the red tape or trapdoor, there would be a way to be found outside the box thinking and a laugh of working with Ciaran on many sports and community projects that stand testimony to his knowledge, skill and love of sport, his community and above all his family”. He is survived by his wife Caroline nee Tubridy, children Caoilfhionn, Siofra, Aoibhnait and Luisne, mother Attracta, brothers, Declan and Fergal, sisters Fiona and Eimear, mother-in-law Rita Tubridy, brother-in-law, Alan Tubridy, uncle, aunts, nephews, nieces and a wide circle of friends.

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20 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Ennis' Clare in running to be named carer of the year PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ENNIS mother of two is in the running to be named as the carer of the year. Clare Sydney has already been announced as the Netwatch Clare and Munster Family Carer of the Year and on Thursday (today) attends the National Final alongside her husband Darum and twin children Isabella and Anthony James where Miriam O’Callaghan will announce which regional finalist wins the Family Carer of the Year award. The annual awards seek to recognise and shine a light on the remarkable contribution of Ireland’s forgotten frontline who go the extra mile every day in caring for loved ones with additional needs. More than 500,000 people in Ireland provide unpaid care in the home for children or adults with physical or intellectual disabilities, frail older people, those with palliative care needs or those living with chronic illnesses, mental ill-health, or addiction. The 19 million hours of unpaid care provided each week by family carers would cost the state €20bn a year to replace.

From Corrovorrin, Clare is the daughter of Margaret and legendary journalist Tony Mulvey formerly of The Clare Champion. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Clare admitted it was an honoured to be selected as the county winner never mind securing provincial recognition. “I was delighted, a little bit embarrassed and questioning if I deserved it but it’s my everyday life and what I do is normal for me, I don’t know any different. I have Isabella and AJ, they’re twins, they are my only two”. Isabella was born with a very rare condition called Lumbosacral Agenesis from birth which necessitates her using a wheelchair as her legs were amputated at the age of 7. Now aged twelve years old, Isabella attends Ennis CBS with her twin brother. “I wouldn’t have it any other way, she is the light in all of our lives, there’s no work in her, I know looking from the outside in it might seem that way but on the inside trust me she is just brilliant. Her twin brother is brilliant too of course,” Clare said. Having lived in London for nineteen years, the idea of returning to her native place was first suggested by her husband Darum who was born in London and whose parents hail from The Caribbean following on from Isabella’s surgeries.

Problems of food waste flagged by Obair chef by PÁRAIC McMAHON AWARENESS of the huge problems posed by food waste in Ireland and internationally is to be highlighted in a new online series featuring a Newmarket-on-Fergus service. Non-profit social enterprise, FoodCloud has launched a new online series to drive awareness of the issues associated with food waste across the country by highlighting the importance of saving valuable surplus produce from landfill and the positive impact that this will have on the environment. As a nation, Ireland currently generates 1.27 million tonnes of food waste annually, with the average family throwing away €700 - €1,000 of food each year. Despite this, food insecurity is a very serious issue affecting communities nationwide. Global food production accounts for around 35% of all greenhouse gas emissions, 8% to 10% of which are directly related to food waste - a staggering four times that of global aviation emissions. And, according to Project Drawdown’s 2020 research study, reducing food waste has been identified as the number one most effective way of fighting climate change. Yet, despite all of the evidence to support this argument, the subject of food waste was controversially ‘frozen’ out of talks at the recent COP26 Climate Change Conference in Glasgow. In episode two of the series, FoodCloud profiles Obair’s Meals on Wheels service in

Newmarket-on-Fergus. Galway chef, Jess Murphy of Kai Cafe who is originally from New Zealand went head to head with Shannon’s Erica Long who is Head Chef of the Newmarket-on-Fergus service for the episode where they had thirty minutes to produce a dish off-the-cuff using a range of surplus ingredients supplied by FoodCloud. As Head Chef, Erica is responsible for the cooking of the meals for the 182 Meals on Wheels clients across Co Clare along with Obair’s role in feeding 40 persons living in sheltered accommodation and the 60 children availing of school dinners. “With the food we get from FoodCloud, everyone has a chance to eat and also socialise. All Taste, Zero Waste was quite challenging and Jess is an amazing cook, so it was an amazing experience,” Erica said. Funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine allowed FoodCloud which was founded in 2013 to team up with groups such as Obair for the series. During the episode, Erica also explained how Obair uses surplus ingredients supplied by FoodCloud daily and the positive impact of the service. Both Erica and Jess teamed up on Friday of last week when a special event was held at the Tradaree Building in Newmarket-on-Fergus where members of the National Broadband Ireland board were among the guests.

“It had never entered my brain before, he said ‘to be honest they are always here and I’d probably have a quieter house if I lived over there because there was always someone calling whether it was my parents, aunties or cousins, brother or sister, there was always someone sleeping on the couch, I said I did and we made the decision, within ten minutes I rang my Mam and said we would be moving home. “We gave ourselves two years to make sure Isabella was ok and that we could definitely maintain everything, I was afraid with the healthcare here but the healthcare has been amazing here, people have been really helpful”. On top of home-schooling and caring for her daughter, Clare received a cancer diagnosis last March. “ Everything is okay, I will be going for my check-up in December, I’m confident and don’t see why things wouldn’t be okay. It was a shock to be told you had cancer on the 12th of March, the day they were closing down the schools, it worked in my favour because I was in surgeries within four days, they knew something was coming with the COVID and they offered me surgery, I said yes, dropped the phone and went in for my pre-op and had the surgery on Monday morning, that’s how

lWELL DESERVED: Clare Sydney quick it was, they were phenomenal down in Limerick,” she recalled. In what promises to be a busy and exciting few days for the Sydney and Mulvey families, they will begin by looking forward to the finals on Thursday and whatever outcome will continue to remain united.

NEWS 21

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

SUPER SIBLINGS

lTRIPLE THREAT: Siblings Mia (u14), Dan (u12) and Ella Holly (u16) from Doora-Barefield with their gold medals for swimming at the community games last weekend

Research & secure payment most important when shopping online DILIGENT research and secure payments are among the top tips for online shoppers ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, writes Páraic McMahon. Anne Marie O’Reilly of Ennis Citizens Information Centre highlighted that the same protections under consumer law exist when buying online just like when making purchases in store. She explained that when you buy products or services online you are entering into a contract called a distance

contract. With this type of contract, you do not enter into the contract in person and you cannot check the products before you buy, as a result additional protections exist under EU law. “When you buy online from a seller based in Ireland or elsewhere in the EU you have 14 calendar days to change your mind and cancel without having to give a reason. This is known as the ‘cooling-off period’. If you bought a product online your 14 day ‘cool-

ing-off period’ starts when you get the product. The cooling-off period does not apply to certain purchases. Examples are leisure services such as hotel bookings, car rental or concert tickets or if the product was made especially for you,” Anne Marie stated. She advised that carrying out research and secure payments are very important when it comes to online shopping. “If you are worried about whether you are buying from

an authentic website, research the company to make sure it’s a legitimate business”. Websites that only have a contact form with no other contact information are ones to be suspicious of, she said. Online reviews such as social media channels and Trustpilot can be helpful before making a purchase. Shoppers should also look for a closed security padlock symbol in their browser where the website address is located.

Customers should also be careful when it comes to fraudsters perpetrating to be couriers who seek payment for customs duties. “Always be sure to verify texts or emails are from who they say they are by phoning the business directly. “Couriers give you the option of paying cash on delivery for duties owed and this may be safer. If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please contact the Gardaí,” she concluded.

22 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

SHANNON NEWS in association with

Illegal dumping of green waste rising PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

REEN waste is being dumped illegally throughout Shannon with members of the public ignorant to the fact that they are breaking the law, elected representatives have flagged. Instances of the dumping of green waste in woodlands and adjacent to walkways are rising across Shannon, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) has cautioned. He appealed for the environmental warden to address a meeting of the Shannon Municipal District to outline the measures in place “to tackle this illegal activity and advise on what can be done to

TREES: Anti-dumping initiative funds saw green waste removed from Rossbracken this year Photo by Joe Buckley

strengthen the policy currently in place”. Over the past months, 13 com-

plaints regarding green waste in the Shannon MD were logged on Clare County Council’s customer

relationship management system, senior executive engineer Brendan Flynn confirmed. Smithstown’s civic amenity site which accepts green waste as a charge was flagged by the engineer along with the ability to dispose in household brown bins for collection to a waste service provider. Daily patrols are carried out by a community warden in the Shannon MD, Flynn stated. Awareness campaigns were completed by Shannon Tidy Towns with coverage also appearing in The Clare Echo and on Clare County Council’s online platforms, he added. An allocation of anti-dumping initiative funds removed green waste from Rossbracken Estate (Shannon), Westbury Estate, Shannon Banks, Kilnasoolagh Park (Newmarket-on-Fergus) and

the approach road to Ballycasey House this year. “We spent a long time talking about all the positive things to enhance our environment but we have a considerable amount of people out there destroying the environment,” Cllr Flynn commented. He believed it was time to start using CCTV to prosecute individuals found guilty of illegal dumping. “I would like the author of the reply to work very closely with elected members, some officials are not understanding that we’re all paid out of the one purse”. Stronger campaigns need to be put in place, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) maintained. “The amount of people that don’t realise dumping green waste is illegal, it has potential to become hazardous. We need a campaign where people know it is illegal”.

Active Retirement group keeping on their toes

STEPPING OUT: Ellie Hensley, Bridget Kirby, Dympna Carty, Ita Walsh, Cathy Behan, Mary Margaret O’Dea, Marie Carroll, Criss Downes, Brenda Webb, Irene Behan, Dolores Smith, Mary Makush Photo by Joe Buckley

by PÁRAIC McMAHON MEMBERS of the Shannon Active Retirement Group are keeping on their toes. Shannon’s branch of Active Retirement is one of the most active in the county not alone in their events but also in their actions. Each week, the ladies complete a walk in their group. Once the walking is ﬁnished, the talking increases and they pick a dif-

ferent area in Shannon where they unwind with some tea, coffee and treats. Walking spots also vary with the group recently travelling in the vicinity of Shannon Airport to see the increase in trafﬁc as more routes return to the International Airport. There are currently 137 members of the Active Retirement branch in Shannon. They resumed activities in September for the ﬁrst time since the onset of COVID-19 in March of the previous year.

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

in association with

€1.89m redevelopment of Bushy Park to commence early next year PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

EDEVELOPMENT work at Bushy Park addiction treatment centre is to commence in the first quarter of next year, the HSE have confirmed. Under the HSE’s 2021 Capital Plan, it was announced that the existing facilities in Bushy Park would be replaced by a fit for purpose residential addiction treatment service as part of a €1.89m investment. Full planning permission has been secured for the works. An update was sought on the timeline of the project going to

tender by Clare TD, Joe Carey (FG) in Dáil Éireann recently. “This project has the benefit of full planning permission and will consist of a single story extension to be added to the main house with additional bedroom accommodation, social spaces, a kitchen and offices,” he outlined. Deputy Carey added, “The project is currently at pre-tender stage and it’s important that approval is granted without delay to enable the re-development to move forward to tender stage. There is a noted growing demand for residential addiction spaces and this proposed re-development is crucial in order to cater for this need”. HSE National Director Capital and Estates, Jim Curran confirmed that the redevelopment has full

planning permission. “The detailed design has been completed and the shortlisting of contractors in line with national procurement requirements is now complete,” he stated. “Permission to proceed to tender has been granted and we anticipate that the works will be tendered and contractor appointed in Quarter 1 of 2022. This will allow time for the decanting of residents into alternative accommodation, which is planned to commence in the coming months and which is required to allow the works to commence. “Funding to contractually commit to the construction contract has been provided in the HSE capital plan for the project in 2022,” Mr Curran added.

ADDICTION: Bushy Park

Shortage of outdoor seating in Ennis ﬂagged by PÁRAIC McMAHON ENNIS is lacking an adequate amount of outdoor seating for its “ageing population,” an elected representative has said. A shortage of outdoor seating in Ennis was flagged by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) at this month’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District as she called for benches and litter bins to be reinstated at Abbey St car park. She also asked that the use of single seats be explored. To mark the thirtieth anniversary of Ennis Mental Health Association, one bench and three chairs are to be installed beside the River Fergus in Abbey St car park. A plaque inscribed with a quote to promote mental health awareness will also be erected. “It was originally intended to have the seating in place by Mental Health Week (10 Oct) but due to lockdown delivery delays, the seating will not arrive until early December,” senior executive engineer Eamon O’Dea stated. He conﬁrmed that litter bins would be reinstated. Members of the public have been deprived of the opportunity to meet outdoors for lunch in Ennis due to a shortage of seating, Cllr

Howard outlined. “Outdoor seating is the one thing missing throughout the town, we’ve an ageing population and a lot of mothers with children. People recovering from surgery or illness would really appreciate a place to sit. We’ve learned a lot over last 19 months, we’ve embraced our outdoor spaces like never before. We’re an age friendly town, we have great

plans going on, seating is a hugely important part of that”. Infrastructure must cater for Ennis’ population, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) said, “The older you are the more you will need the seating to help the tired arms and legs”. “The bench will be from the Mental Health Association which is very apt, it will be a great added bonus to the town,” Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) commented.

PIAZZA: The parklet which was on O’Connell St during the Temporary Mobility Plan

FUEL SPECIALISTS IN Kiln Dried Timber, Wood Pellets, Ecologs & Smokeless Fuel

24 Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

‘We lived in harmony with the Burren’ STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

ARIE McGauran grew up in the Burren, would go walking with her dad as he went about his farming chores or would explore on her own, learning the ways of the wild animals and the secrets of the plants. For more than a decade, she has shared her love of the Burren with others by offering guided walks. Now, she’s turned her attention to the youngest among us, publishing her first children’s book just in time for Christmas. In Stones and Stories, children will learn about the nighttime visits of the foxes, a mouse who learns how important woodland friends can be, and a small snail called Sammy who carries his house on his back and who says “it’s slowly, slowly, slowly I go.”

One of McGauran’s favorites is about her granduncle Mick O’Loughlin, a bachelor who lived with a herd of goats at the foot of Mullaghmore mountain in the townland of Creehaun. “When we went to the mountain with my dad we always wanted to see him and to go into his little cottage,” she said. “He loved nature. He went on the mountain every day, and experienced the habitats – the wildflower meadows, the woodlands, the Giant’s Playground.” It is the Burren of her father and granduncle that called to her as a child and still calls to her. “We were all very connected to the landscape growing up,” said McGauran, one of 10 O’Brien children who still lives on the family land in the shadow of Mullaghmore. “We lived in harmony with the place. It was part of me. And it still is. Because of my love of the Burren, I had a desire to share my stories and poems with children worldwide who may not have heard of or experienced it.”

The title of the book takes its name from one of several walks that McGauran has been offering since 2009 through her business, Burren Experience Guided Walks. In the ‘stones and stories’ walk, she talks to people about growing up in the Burren and the humans and animals that were part of her childhood. One of the people taken by her stories was Dublin-based illustrator Shane O’Donohghue. He was born and raised “on the Connemara side” of County Galway, and his parents took him on walks in the Burren frequently when he was growing up. He continued his love of the Burren as an adult, always bringing his sketch book with him. “I finally found myself sitting on a lot of material about the Burren. I decided it was time to do something with all this work,” he said. He said he thought the stories McGauran tells in her guided walk would work well with his illustrations. And fortunately, she’d been writing down the stories and po-

 STONES AND STORIES Marie McGauran

ems of her life for years. “She has this lived experience. It’s the language, the farming culture. Our starting point was really rich already,” he said. “It was a delight to work with her on this project.” The book, for 4-8-year-olds, is self-published so the two have been taking on the role of publisher to boot. O’Donoghue created a website about the book, with a shop for purchases. It is also available in several different County Clare bookshops. McGauran wants to children to know its okay to spend time in nature, to listen, to observe, to learn. More than okay, it’s a joy. Taking a cue from the writer

Maya Angelou, McGauran said, “It’s not about the breath we take but the moments that take our breath away. That’s the Burren. That’s what I’m trying to say in this book. Be present in nature. Slow down. Live in the moment.” “Stones and Stories” is €12 and available at the Ennis Bookshop, the Lahinch Bookshop, Craft Works in Ennis, the Moher Cottage gift and coffee shop in Liscannor, or online at www.theburrenbook.com. McGauran will also be at the Corofin Community Hall Christmas Market on Dec. 5, where she will have books to sign and to purchase. The market runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Clare Roots Society continue to preserve local history by STUART HOLLY CLARE Roots Society has just released its 39th book with their publication, the Old Military Barracks; and it’s fair to say, what started as a genealogy group 15 years ago has become an incredibly prolific publishing group. The Clare Roots Society was established in 2006 by local developer Larry Brennan. The Ennis man had been working on his family tree for a number of years when he had the idea to put an advert in The Clare Champion to find like-minded people. With a view to setting up a society, 16 people turned up for the first meeting at The Old Ground Hotel and the Clare Roots Society was formed.

Today the group has about 200 active members and 39 books have been published about local history, encompassing diverse subject such as the 1958 Carmody Hotel disaster, Drumcliff Graveyard, and many of the streets and residential areas of Ennis. The books introduce characters of County Clare’s past and tell their stories through story and photos. Currently, books on Hermitage and Parnell Street are being produced, which will tip the group’s repertoire to over 40. They also host workshops on genealogy and a number of talks annually; one of which recently included a speaker who is the daughter of famed organist Ernest de Regge, who died in the Carmody Hotel incident. While physical monthly meetings have in

recent times become virtual events, John Bradley, PRO for the group, tells The Clare Echo that this has in fact expanded their reach worldwide. “We have about ﬁfty overseas members. They’re very active particularly since we went on Zoom, they are very much with us so we want to continue with both the live meetings and also the zoom meetings.” He adds that the group works hand in hand with Clare Library, who he reserves great praise for. John himself was born on the Clare Road in Ennis and says the group takes great pride in preserving history and helping people ﬁnd out about their family history. The father of three, who once worked for the National Lottery, quips that he is so busy in the group that he hasn’t had any time to delve

into his own family history, continuing “but it’s a great link in finding out your predecessors, their placing in the town or in the locality or what they worked at or what they lived on, where they lived and what were their circumstances and you know going back over the years, back over the generations you will find extraordinary things about your family, most of it good of course but some things that you wouldn’t have expected, something that wouldn’t want to be associated with.” The Old Military Barracks book can be purchased at the Ennis bookshop, Mary Kelly’s, O’Connell’s Street or O’Connor’s Newsagents in the Market, selling at €15 each. To contact the Clare Roots Society, visit http://www.clareroots.org/ or find Clare Roots Society on Facebook.

FEATURES 25

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

GREEN CLARE

TUS launches €2.9m project aimed at tackling plastic waste PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

€2.9 MILLION project aimed at tackling plastic packaging pollution has been launched by Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest (TUS). The PerPETual project, which received €1.8m in funding through

the Government’s Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, aims to reduce landfill and incineration of waste plastic by creating a technology that will allow polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics to be continually recycled. The project is led by researchers at TUS, in partnership with UCC, AvonCourt Packaging Ltd and Novelplast Teoranta, to develop a permanent recycling technology for all grades of PET to convert them into valuable resources. Both industry partners have

RECYCLING: L to R: Dr Margaret Fournet, TUS; Dr Declan Devine, TUS; Neil Skefﬁngton, CEO, Novelplast; Dr Olivia Adly, TUS; Diana Garza Herrara, TUS; Dr Cuneyt Erdinc Tas, TUS; Edouardo Lanzagorta Garcia, TUS; Dr James Murray, TUS; Fergus Quinn, TUS; Dr Yuanyuan Chen, TUS; Dr Chaitra Venkatesh, TUS; Dr Ian Major, TUS; Muhammad Azeem, TUS

provided combined funding of over one million euro towards the project. PET plastic, which is made from fossil fuels, is a clear strong plastic found in every day packaging such as drinking bottles and fresh food tubs and trays. High quantities of this widely used plastic ends up in landfill, incinerators and as an environmental pollutant, as a viable process for remaking PET plastics from waste PET at scale, is not available. TUS’s lead researcher of the Per-

PETual project, Dr Margaret Brennan Fournet said, “We are thrilled to progress our amazing technologies for the continuous depolymerisation and remaking of PET without the need for further fossil fuel extraction, which will be key to eliminating the impact on the environment and to ensuring prosperity for future generations”. She added, “The PerPETual project will be highly disruptive for a number of the sectors including food; energy; climate action and sustainability; manufacturing, ma-

terials, business services and processes and will significantly alter the way we work, live and innovate for a low carbon, resource neutral, sustainable plastics future”. Imelda Lambkin, Disruptive Technologies Department Manager, Enterprise Ireland described the fund as “a vital tool for enabling Irish enterprise and research sectors to find solutions and positive contributions to the low carbon and sustainability targets in Ireland’s Climate Action Plan.

26 FEATURES

Time to prepare RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

DVENT is about to begin next Sunday and many of us are already preparing our homes and families to observe this season with much of our planning and preparations well under way. We know what we want to do and we know how we want to do it because we have a plan. Plans are all very good but without action, nothing happens and nothing gets done. Our Scripture Readings in Advent deal with preparing the way for the Lord. The readings encourage us to repent and John the Baptist is preparing the way for the arrival of Jesus and there is a plan in place and it is actioned. During this past year, Covid has had another significant impact on all our lives. Our plans and resolutions for 2021 needed to change and adjust as we were in ‘lockdown’ and up to our belly in restrictions. As we near the end of 2021 and as we progress through this season of Advent, perhaps it is time to reflect on where we are. Each of us can help others to love more.

New Ways

As the commercial world about us readies itself for the Christmas season we are invited to take a step back and view the bigger picture and now perhaps more than ever before, in this time of the Coronavirus pandemic crisis, we are being called to stay awake, to stay watchful, to keep our eyes, our hearts and minds wide open and free to recognise the light of God’s presence shining within our own heart. If approached in a spirit of openness, Advent can be an opportunity to deepen our sense of God who walks alongside us on the journey of life. It is somewhat like a mini Lent before Christmas. We are invited to set aside some extra time and space for prayer, reflection and good works. The restrictions in place because of the Coronavirus mean that we may not be in a position to gather as usual or go about the normal activities we are used to doing around the Christmas season. This situation challenges us to find new ways of reflecting on our faith and praying in our homes. Many of us are also wondering, how could we possibly enter into the celebration of Advent if we are paying attention to what is happening to our beautiful country and our world that we all live in? How do we celebrate or turn our thoughts and hearts towards Christmas when our hearts are broken by the fact that nearly 10,000 people, families and children are

going to be homeless in our country this Christmas? Then there is the direct provision and asylum/refugee crisis, climate change upheaval, the challenges of the Coronavirus, the Brexit worries and the craziness of our country and the world at the moment, where human life is worth nothing anymore and is so meaningless. These days, celebration can seem heartless and uncaring, if not outright impossible. But here’s the thing: we enter into Advent precisely because we are paying attention. It’s because everything hurts, that we prepare for Advent. It’s because we have stood in hospital rooms, mortuaries and grave sides, empty churches and quiet bedrooms, that we resolutely light our Advent candles. We don’t get to have hope without having grief and sadness. Hope dares to admit that not everything is as it should be, and so if we want to be hopeful, first we have to grieve. First we have to see that something is broken and there is a reason for why we need hope to begin with and hope to wait.

Season of Hope

Also for a lot of us Life speeds up around this time of year although it will be a different type of Christmas this strange year. There are still Christmas decorations to be put up and gift shopping to be done and hopefully Christmas services and carol services to prepare and attend. It has the potential to be a season of manic hype and fun, but it also has the potential to be full of pressure and worrisome stress. There can be tensions and escalating fears, about our personal circumstances and the injustice and disparity in our own life, in our families, in our town, country and world every day. Or the people walking in deep grief, homelessness, addiction, loneliness and those abandoned on the edges of our society at a time when we’re supposed to be really happy and excited about Christmas and the future. I think of the pressure people feel, to shop and buy a better existence, a happier family, a stronger relationship, a whole new identity. The pressure to buy things that represent a quality of life that can’t be bought. It is hard to see Advent as a Season of Hope when you are suffering from an incurable illness, the worries of the Coronavirus, mental health difficulties, homelessness, being a refugee, living in Direct provision, suffering from addiction, unemployed and abandoned on the edges of society. But Advent is a season of Hope

and we must make it so for our people in need in our country. It is a season full of anticipation and hope. In my family growing up we always kept an Advent wreath whose four burning candles reminded us of the spirit of the season and served to build anticipation for the coming joy of the Christmas celebration. Just the other day I was powerfully reminded of the symbolic importance of the Advent wreath through a beautiful allegory a close friend shared with me. It goes like this: “For me this is an important reminder that hope is an integral part of our Christian faith. The reality of Christ’s birth reminds us that God has a plan to conquer the pain, sufferings and misfortunes of humanity’s existence. That plan consists of the birth of the Christ child in a manger over 2,000 years ago. As we prepare to celebrate the birth of the “ultimate hope” let us reflect on our own abundance or dearth of this vital virtue. Is our “Hope” candle still burning bright? If so, you may be surprised at how many other candles you can light, and how many lives you can touch.”

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, please remember that Advent matters, because it’s our way of keeping our eyes and our hearts and our arms all wide open even in the midst of our grief and longing. A prayer I say during Advent time for everyone in need of a prayer of Hope especially for our loved ones that are sick, unwell, homeless, abandoned and in need of our actions of love and caring goes as follows - “Emmanuel, Our world waits in darkness longing for Your light. In the midst of darkness, en-kindle our hope. As we long for lasting peace in the midst of war, Be with us. As we long for families to be reunited, Be with us. As we long for homeless and abandoned people in our communities to be cared for, Be with us. As we long for enemies to be reconciled, Be with us. As we long for cures and healing especially from the Coronavirus, Be with us. As we long for decent jobs and decent homes and shelter and economic security, Be with us. As we long for love and community, Be with us. Fulfill the deepest longings of your people and Dispel the darkness in our hearts and in our world. Let your Word ignite the Hope the world needs to bring your life, love and justice. May this Advent season be a time for bringing hope, transformation and fulfillment into the real living of our lives. Amen.” I encourage you this season of Advent to make yourself a little sacred space, a holy place you have set aside for prayer, meditation, and worship. A place for daily devotion and rest. A place that draws your heart like a little child into the stillness and the wonder of Advent. God bless you and keep you safe always!

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

HITTING THE ROAD

SEEING RED: Trucks who participated in the Toovahera

Church Restoration - Truck & Tractor Run which took place in Lisdoonvarna on Saturday, 20th of November. The Run was very well supported and the organisers wish to thank all who helped in any way with the organising

Mná ag Gáire to hold Christmas Market ENNIS based group, Mná ag Gáire are getting into the festive spirit by hosting a Christmas market next week, writes Páraic McMahon. Mná ag Gáire will hold a Christmas Market at the Women’s Shed in Tracklands Business Park Unit 7 on Thursday (December 2nd) from 5pm until late. There will be a wide variety of stalls with different gifts available including handmade

decorations, cakes, doggy bits, locally made candles, knitwear and art. Refreshments will include burgers, hot dogs, hot chocolate and vegetarian soup. Santa Claus is tipped to make a guest appearance while a rafﬂe will be held for gift hampers. Organisers are aiming to create a festive Christmas atmosphere while adhering to COVID-19 guidelines.

Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competition. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels that will be used to fill sporadic vacancies that may arise in the School Warden service in the Ennis, West Clare and Shannon Municipal District Areas subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

• SCHOOL WARDEN SPORADIC COVER PANELS (ENNIS, WEST CLARE, SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICTS) Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. on Thursday 9th December 2021. Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846251, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie Successful candidates will be subject to Garda Vetting in advance of appointment to the position. Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community. Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

COMMUNITY 27

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Community

SATURDAY, November 27th will see the final event in the West Clare War of Independence 2021 programme take place in Martyrs Square, Kilrush at 3pm. All districts throughout West Clare will be represented at the event with special designation reserved for those areas that organised commemoration events within their own community settings. All mens’ and ladies’ sporting clubs are also being invited to bring their club colours to the event. To date, many districts in West Clare have held separate commemoration ceremonies including Doonbeg, Clohanes, Moyasta, Old Shanakyle, Kilferagh, Kilkee, Kilmihil, Kildysart, Killimer, Cranny, Coolmeen, Mullagh/Coore/Kilmurry-Ibrickane Parish, Cooraclare/Cree/Kilmacduane, Carrigaholt/Kilballyowen, Tullycrine, and Labasheeda/ Kilmurry McMahon. The West Clare War of Independence Commemoration Committee was formed following a public meeting in Cooraclare in 2020. It is primarily a non-political entity with the sole aim of remembering those men, women and children who bravely served in the 1919/1921 War of Independence in West Clare under the banners of the West Clare Brigade and Cumann na mBan organisations. Led by JT Larkin as chairman, secretary Tom Prendeville, treasurer Aideen O’Mahony and PRO Michael O’Connell, the committee has achieved its main objective by liaising with local district represen-

tatives across West Clare in organising commemoration events within their own immediate communities. Clare County Council, under the Decade of Centenaries Project Awards 2021, and Kilrush Credit Union have grant-aided the project. The programme for the Kilrush commemoration event on Saturday, November 27th features an address of welcome followed by a roll-call of the volunteers enlisted in the Kilrush and Monmore Companies in 1919/’21. Eoin Shanahan, an authority on the War of Independence in West Clare with his acclaimed publication, ‘The Hand that Held the Gun’, will deliver the keynote address. The unveiling of a memorial plaque at the Town Hall will be followed by a wreath-laying ceremony, with all participating West Clare districts involved. A lone piper will provide the musical interludes including laments and Amhrán na bhFiann. The organisers have issued an open invitation to all members of the West Clare social and sporting communities to attend this final ceremony and are predicting a large turn-out for the occasion. The Kilrush event brings the final curtain down on what was a memorable year of commemoration events throughout West Clare. It is right and fitting to honour and remember the exceptional service and sacrifices made by the extraordinary men, women and children of West Clare in winning the war of national freedom just a short century ago.

COUNTYWIDE DELAYED 2020 FINALS

KINGSCOURT in County Cavan are hosting the GAA Handball delayed 2020 O Neill’s All Ireland 4 Wall Championships. All Ireland finals are on Saturday 27th and Sunday 28th of November. They will be one game played in Nenagh on Friday 26th. On Saturday 27th Clare will be represented in Silver Masters B Singles by Aidan Moroney

PLANS to extend both the public lighting and footpath approaching Carrigoran roundabout are to be included in an application for Active Travel funding, writes Páraic McMahon. An application is to be made for the next round of the National Transport Authorities Active Travel funding to include the footpath from Newmarket-on-Fergus to Carrigoran roundabout and also extend this towards the Bellsfort, senior executive engineer with the Shannon Municipal District, Tom Mellett confirmed. Improvement of public lighting is also included in the plans.

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

Pictured following the announcement that Clare County Council is the winner of the Chambers Ireland 2021 Excellence in Local Government (ELG) Award for ‘Initiative through the Municipal Districts were Cllr PJ Ryan Liam Conneally with Morgan Lahiffe, Leonore O’Neill, Jason Murphy and John O’Malley Photo byEamon Ward

N19 SHANNON AIRPORT ACCESS ROAD IMPROVEMENT SCHEME PUBLIC DISPLAY OF THE PREFERRED OPTION Project Description Clare County Council is progressing the development of the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme in partnership with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and the Department of Transport. Fehily Timoney and Clandillon Civil Consulting Joint Venture are the appointed Technical Advisors to advance the project through the planning and design stages. The project is located on the N19 national primary road between Drumgeely roundabout and Knockbeagh Point roundabout on approach to Shannon International Airport and is approximately 2.2 kilometres in length. Public Consultation

(Kilkishen) against Kieran Hanley from Galway and in the Boys under 17 by Gearoid Sheedy (Tuamgraney) against Sean Barron from Kilkenny. Fina Close (Kilkishen) and Eimear Rodgers will compete on Friday 26th Nenagh, Co Tipperary at 19.30hrs. They will be playing against Aisling Cooney/Aine Sharkey from Kilkenny.

A Public Display of the Preferred Option for the N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme commenced on Monday 22nd November 2021 and will continue until Monday 6th December 2021. The purpose of this nonstatutory public display is to inform the public and stakeholders of the preferred option developed for the project, the work undertaken to date and the programme for advancement of the project. This preferred option will be further developed as part of the next stages in the development of the project. The public display event provides an opportunity for feedback to be submitted, which may inform the further development of the project in the next stages. In consideration of continuing risks due to COVID-19, an online public display platform has been developed on the project website www.shannonaccess.ie. This online platform provides information boards, maps of the preferred option, interactive webmaps, a project brochure and an online feedback facility. The online platform also includes an online booking facility where the public and other stakeholders can schedule an online or telephone meeting with a member of the project team during the public display period. It is understood that online information cannot be accessed by everyone. The project team is keen to engage with people throughout the public display period. Hardcopies of brochures and drawings can be requested by post, and telephone meetings can be booked by calling the dedicated phone line (065) 6866147 during office hours from Monday 22nd November to Monday 6th December 2021. Maps of the preferred option are on display and brochures available at Clare County Councils Head Office at New Road, Ennis and at the Shannon Municipal District Office.

CARRIGORAN PUBLIC LIGHTING

NEWSDESK

ENNIS

KILRUSH WAR OF INDEPENDENCE EVENT

CONTACT

He acknowledged that the existing path “is popular with walkers and is a connection from the nursing home” to the village. Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) requested at this month’s meeting of the Shannon MD to extend the public lighting, an appeal which was seconded by Cllr PJ Ryan (IND). “It is an area that people walk and cycle all year round,” McMahon outlined. “People are walking and exercising now in different forms, from now until the end of March people need to be able to take advantage of public lighting and use it in a safe manner,” the Newmarket-on-Fergus representative added.

HOW TO SUBMIT FEEDBACK Feedback can be made on the project website www.shannonaccess.ie, or by email to info@shannonaccess.ie, or by post addressed to Freepost ES104, N19 Shannon Airport Access Road Improvement Scheme, Clare County Council, Project Management Office, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis, County Clare, V95RR72 during the public display period from Monday 22nd November to Monday 6th December 2021. Clare County Council values the opinion of the community on this project and welcomes feedback from the public and interested parties. The Feedback received will be considered by the project team as part of the next stages.

28 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

FESTIVE BOOZY MULLED WINE Kearney Cooks

nce again my thoughts have turned to Christmas. Or rather they have turned to thoughts of my usual Christmas social life, which I fear may once again be curtailed. As a result of possible restrictions, there may be a rise in little parties at home. This made me think of mulled wine, the perfect welcome drink for a Christmas soiree. Now this is a fairly standard recipe and there are lots of variations out there. This however is my version, and it is tasty (and boozy) as hell. YOU WILL NEED • 750ml of decent red wine • 160g caster sugar • 1 cinnamon stick • 3 star anise • The zest of 1 orange • The zest of 1 lemon • The juice of 1 orange • 30ml of brandy • 30ml of sloe gin (or port)

Step 1 Horse everything into the one pot and bring to the boil. Once it comes to a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for five minutes. Step 2 Leave it sit in the pot for a while (30 minutes is fine). This will allow the flavours to infuse.

With With

In this week’s column, Joe Melody gives an insight into an “exceptional” early winter for farming

S I write this weeks column, I’m looking out the window towards the River Shannon, its majestic vista has been obscured by a wall of fog which is slowly burning off in the crisp November sunshine. This early winter has been an exceptional one for farming. Cattle have been happy in their fields perhaps a little longer than usual as they enjoy a bounty of grass along with the conditions to utilise it. This all means less winter labouring for the farmer and crucially

less of a need for expensive inputs. Indeed the rapid price rise in fertiliser costs are a source of concern for farmers as it could erode any gains made by higher beef and milk prices. Mark Twain the great American author once said “I am an old man and have known a great many troubles, but most of them never happened”. My father J.J. and I are taking that line of thought with the rising inputs, we will hold out until 2022 and see what that brings in terms of prices. I suspect

that the old sage Twain didn’t concern himself with fertiliser prices as he was before their time, however his wisdom is applicable to the issues of today. We are currently in the process of drying of the dairy herd in stages. First calved cows are first to be dried off, then thinner cows followed by our earliest calving cows. Our milking parlour is a 16 unit machine so we dry off the cows in batches of 16 as to leave even rows of cows thereafter. Once the cows have been dried they’re moved to the out block

Step 3 Warm through, and serve in festive glasses. This is fairly simple to make and provides a great wow factor for arriving guests. Plus with the cold weather about to arrive this is a great little tipple to warm you up as well. As usual if you have any questions about this recipe or others please feel

where hopefully they will stay grazing well into the winter (weather permitting of course). The grass they will be grazing there is grass With that was last grazed or cut early August or at latest early September. These fields have been selected because they are drier fields with plenty of shelter in the form of hedging. This system takes a great deal of pressure off our system in terms of less silage required and less slurry being stored. We expect to have the dairy herd fully dried off by the first of December. The dry period will give both man and cow a rest and time to prepare for a busy spring period. On the spring calving dairy farm of today, most of the year’s work is front loaded. The months from February to June are not only extremely demanding but they are also the months where the success of a year can be determined. Over the winter dry period we tend to wind down considerably on the work schedule but it is also a time where we prepare and plan. Currently we are preparing calf feeding equipment and calibrating the automatic calf feeder. The higher than usual late autumn temperatures has meant that there is much more grass on the

free to slide into my DMs on Insta, I am usually quick to respond. Also keep an eye to The Clare Echo Facebook page and my Instagram page for the instructional video that goes along with this video. PS: Drink responsibly.

Enjoy

Steve K

GOOD WEATHER: Joe is hopeful the herd can graze well into winter

farm than previous years, this is crucial because when the cows calve in February they will be able to go out

to grass thus driving high performance and reducing the labour demand in the yard.

BUSINESS 29

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

BUSINESS AND RECRUITMENT

Shell and Simply Blue partner up for oﬀshore wind farm

€1bn of annual GDP contributions projected for town by PÁRAIC McMAHON

LOOKING FORWARD: Val Cummins, Managing Director & Director, Simply Blue Group, Gordon Shearer, Commercial

Manager Offshore Wind, Shell and Hugh Kelly, Co-Founder & Chief Commercial Director, Simply Blue Group, at Loop Head lighthouse on the West Coast of Ireland for the ofﬁcial announcement of Simply Blue Group's JV Partnership with Shell on the Western Star floating wind project Photo by Diane Cusack

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

N AGREEMENT has been reached between Shell and Simply Blue Group to develop a 1.35GW floating wind farm off the coast of

West Clare. It is part of a new development which is to be situated at least 35km off the coast of Kilkee. The floating technology proposed will allow the turbines to be located in waters over 100m deep. It is a separate project to ESB's plans for a Green Atlantic hub at Moneypoint. Shell have acquired a 51 percent share in Simply Blue Group’s Western Star Venture which both companies have said has the potential to create hundreds of “high-quality jobs” in the local supply chain during the assembly, installation and deployment of the wind turbines. However the project office will be based at the headquarters of Simply Blue Group in Cork. Personnel from the blue economy developer and Shell floating wind experts are to deliver the Western Star Joint Venture. Long-term operations and maintenance of the tur-

bines will also require local skills and services to support this industry. Both companies reached a similar agreement earlier this year to jointly develop the Emerald floating wind project off the coast of Cork. Simply Blue Group has a pipeline of over 9 GW of floating offshore wind projects, primarily in the waters off Ireland and the UK. As part of the Western Star Joint Venture, 1,145,000 Irish homes can be powered, the project is targeting an energy output of 1.35GW in total, 300MW-450MW in the first phase with 700MW-900MW to follow. Phase one is likely to include between 15MW and 18MW turbines. Clare and the west coast of Ireland has “tremendous wind potential,” Hugh Kelly, Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Director, Simply Blue Group stated. “The project will utilise floating offshore wind technology to produce zero-carbon electricity and will greatly help Ireland progress towards a green energy future with domestically sourced sustainable electricity delivering both environmental and economic benefits to the entire country,” he added. The Clare Echo understands that Clare County Council have already

held a brief meeting with the project team behind the floating wind farm regarding the planning process. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) heightened the importance of the area playing its part in making Ireland a carbon neutral country. "We have known for many years the capacity for off shore wind here in Clare to deliver significant amount of the renewable energy requirements for Ireland to become a carbon neutral country. It’s very positive news after the recent disappointment of Equinor and the ESB project”. Elected representatives in the West Clare Municipal District will insist on the project team committing “to proper and in depth communication with the local communities and the delivery of sustainable long term employment for us here in West Clare,” Murphy said. “Offshore wind is the Klondike of the modern energy era, it is vital that elected representatives, at local and national level, and Clare County Council senior management team, do their damnedest to ensure the maximum benefit from this opportunity is captured by the local communities here in Clare,” the Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD added.

FINANCIAL predictions have forecast a gross value-added contribution to the Irish GDP of over €1.5bn annually from a university town which is to be located in South Clare. Clare County Council and the University of Limerick are working in tandem on the South Clare Strategic Development Zone (SDZ) which will be a 260 acre extension of the UL campus to enable closer links between the college and selected enterprises in a planned university town. Plans for retail outlets, homes, spacious apartments, green infrastructure, recreation, a marina plus at least one restaurant with a high Michelin rating are also on the agenda. Located on the border between Clare and Limerick, it aims to become the ﬁrst university town in Europe. The planning team behind the project estimates that the gross value-added contribution of this project to Irish GDP, if approved, would exceed €1.5 billion annually by 2030. In addition to advanced facilities created by enterprise, there are plans for homes and spacious apartments, recreation and green infrastructure, including a marina. It is expected to create up to 3,500 jobs and offer a major economic lift to Clonlara, O’Briensbridge and Castleconnell. Founding president of UL, Dr Edward Walsh is also deputy chair of the planning board for the university town. He outlined that the creation of new enterprise led academies with individual ﬁrms are part of the plans which will provide “sophisticated working, living and learning environment sought by advanced corporate leadership”. Walsh stated, “It is intended that students of high achievement (above top 10 per cent) will be given the opportunity to undertake the special academy programme, during years two, three and four of their undergraduate degrees and be based in the enterprise academies. Academy programmes will be devel-

oped jointly by enterprise and university”. The programmes will be taught by mentors of the enterprise itself who are accredited by UL as adjunct faculty. Graduates would have both a UL degree and an accredited enterprise mastery award. Presently five enterprises are in discussion with UL with the launch of the first academy underway. Aviation and life sciences have reported plenty of interest in the university town. Dr Walsh said environmental matters are to the core of their thinking with an electric-tram link between the UL campus and the Technological University of the Shannon under consideration with onward public transport connections to Shannon Airport. Speaking at this month’s meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, Director of Economic Development with Clare County Council, Liam Conneally detailed that “significant work” had been done by the Council and UL in preparing an application for Government. Legal aspects of the application are the current focus. Communication with local communities is to occur early in the New Year, he advised. UL have emphasised that they don’t want their city centre campus to be impacted by the development. “We have given assurances that use types are space hungry and are not suitable to the city centre, the SDZ is in essence the future masterplan for the University for the next 20-40 years, it will be the footprint for the next generation of learning and interaction between University and how business will be brought onto the campus through SDZ designation and how that will work from an economic driver perspective”. Local communities have numerous queries on the project, these include an “impact to family members’ planning permission” on implicated boundaries and land, Cllr Michael Begley (IND) flagged.

30 RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

WE ARE HIRING PANEL OF YOUTHREACH RESOURCE PERSONS at Further Education and Training Division Ref. No. 010861 Applications are invited for the above panel. Online application form and further details are available on www.lcetb.ie Closing time and date for receipt of applications is 12 noon Thursday 09th Dec., 2021 Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Canvassing will disqualify. Provision co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union. Có-mhaoinithe ag an

AONTAS EORPACH Co-funded by the

EUROPEAN UNION

WE ARE HIRING - Support Pharmacist, minimum 2 days a week - Pharmacy Technician, minimum 2 days a week - Full time Front of Counter Assistant Flynns’s Life Pharmacy, Gort Road , Ennis

Manufacturing Employee Denmac Stainless Fabrication Limited require a manufacturing employee. Would suit person with a keen interest in the metal industry and work well as a team. Apply in writing to the Personnel Manager, Denmac Stainless Fabrication Ltd, Stonehall, Newmarket-On-Fergus, Co.Clare or email info@denmacstainless.ie Telephone: 061-363777.

Coach Driver Position We are hiring experienced Coach Drivers in Ennis, on a full-time and part-time basis.

Key Responsibilities of the role include: To drive the company’s vehicles to the highest of standards, making sure driving is performed in a safe and professional manner To drive in-line with a set timetable Use of ticket machines and issuing of tickets to customers

The contact details for any a p plications are as fol l ows: sedaly@uniphar.ie

Providing a high standard of customer service

The ideal candidate will have: An up to date Manual Handling certificate Good spoken English Please note that all successful applicants must be in possession of a full D-Category EU Driving Licence, Driver CPC card, and a Digital Tachograph card

If you wish to apply for a role with Dublin Coach please email your application to hr@dublincoach.ie

RECRUITMENT 31

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021 2c

SAFE PASS CONFINED SPACE CHEMICAL AWARENESS MANUAL HANDLING Venue:

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Suitable for a confident, capable person with sales experience This is a Full Time Position Knowledge of the hardware, builders providers & construction industries would be an advantage but not essential as training will be given

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32 CLICK FOR CLARE

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

A happy Afore After for Sandra STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

FORE AFTER is not the typical business you would expect to find in Ballynacally, County Clare. The brainchild of Sandra Murphy, the fashion and textile designer with over 20 years of experience returned from the US to her native parish where she established her new brand this summer, having worked for leading global brands such as Victoria’s Secret and the Gap. Sandra’s hands-on experience working with sustainable materials began in 2005 while in New York but now based in Ireland, she has turned her focus towards fashion’s future under the circular economy. Summer 2021 saw the launch of the trailblazing womenswear brand which has an unrivalled focus on ethical production and low-impact materials (the buttons are made from Irish milk). “When I say that my collection is sustainable, I’m not just talking about the fabrics,” Sandra says.

A dress from the Afore After collection, which uses sustainable materials and (inset) Sandra Murphy

“Everything from the thread to the buttons to the labels has gone through rigorous certification processes.” The brand’s first collection features 27 versatile, infinitely wear-

able pieces, including dresses, tops, skirts and face coverings, in three beautiful prints that are drawn and designed by Sandra, and exclusive to the brand. “It’s lovely to be back home again and the countryside

in Clare couldn’t be more opposite than New York City,” Sandra says. “These surroundings have reawakened my creativity and I find inspiration all around me, such as the flowers that influenced this col-

lections ‘Blooming Stalkers’ print design.” Available online at aforeafter. com, the brand’s first collection has already amassed celebrity fans, including Aisling Bea, Muireann O’Connell and Aoibhín Garrihy. “I want to show people that building a sustainable wardrobe doesn’t mean sacrificing style,” Sandra says. “It can still be colourful, it can still be exciting.” In September, AFORE AFTER won the MODOS Innovation Award, given by the circular economy initiative that links Enterprise Ireland, the Local Enterprise Office, Dublin City Council and the Regional Waste Management Planning Offices. “Fashion is still often considered a frivolity, so to win an award that spans all industries is really thrilling.” A F O R E SCAN WITH PHONE AFTER’s de- CAMERA TO VISIT but collection AFORE AFTER is available to shop now on aforeafter. com.

CLICK FOR CLARE 33

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

At home with BEO

Aoibhín & Sharon continue to grow Sleep Well range STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

EO Wellness is one of Clare’s most unique business success stories in recent times. Based in Ennis, founders Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan have carefully crafted and built a nationally renowned brand which successfully blends live events promoting self-care, and their BEO Sleep Well product line. The pair have consulted with a wide range of sleep experts to develop the range and along with their website, BEO Sleep Well is stocked nationally by The Kilkenny Shop, in Brown Thomas in Limerick, and Arnott’s in Dublin. Now, the dynamic duo have also opened a pop-up shop at O’Connell Street in Ennis ahead to the busy Christmas period. The trajectory of Aoibhín and Sharon’s lives are uncannily similar – both have recently built their family homes in Ennis and both are mothers to three young children, all aged under four. “Since we began BEO, one of us has always been pregnant,” Sharon laughs, noting the irony as Aoibhin quips, ”We think, and talk and dream of sleep but don’t get any of it.” The pair share a passion for their business and mirror each other’s ambitions for BEO. It seems fitting, then, that they were introduced to each other by another ambitious business woman in Jean McCabe (of Willow) on a girls’ night out in Ennis. While BEO is now a recognisable brand, it all began as a happy accident when the pair planned a one-off fashion event in the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point, owned by Aoibhín’s husband John Burke. After the fashion event proved a big hit, they began to explore organising a one-off wellness event, which they called BEO. After selling out in less than an hour, they added a second date in the Armada with similar results.

Next up was two dates in Limerick, before it snowballed into a nationwide tour and a brand was born. To date, BEO has welcomed more than 30,000 women to live events. And that’s without a business plan. Sharon jokes, “our Whatsapp conversation is our business plan.” As the live events grew, one piece of feedback from their audience resonated with the pair; ‘I wish I could take a piece of BEO home with me’. Aoibhín explains, ”Sleep was one of the things that kept cropping up time and again at our events. We’ve welcomed some of Ireland’s leading health and wellness experts… all of them champion sleep as the pillar of your health and wellbeing and it’s something that tends to get overlooked. When you’re not sleeping well, you’re not eating

well, you’re not thinking straight and so it’s something we wanted to champion and promote the ritual of it.” The results are a wide range of organic, home-grown and sustainable products which promote healthy sleeping; in their line is Pillow Mist, Overnight Lip Mask, Bath Salts, Aran knit throws and socks, bedroom wall prints, handmade linen nightdresses, silk eye masks, scrunchies and pillow cases, candles, and pulse point oil. All the stuff that might turn your bedroom into a dreamy, relaxing haven. In creating their range, supporting local has been a key principle for Aoibhín and Sharon and they have collaborated with numerous Irish companies

in creating their product line, promotional photography and videography. Even their pop-up shop wouldn’t have been possible without the services of D2 Print, Shanahan Paints and local carpenter Michael Donnellan. ”We always keep it local, the stories are all about County Clare. Our tagline is ‘inspired by our landscape’ and we are very much inspired by the West of Ireland and all that it has to offer because it is very therapeutic and calming and it lends itself to the sleep area,” explains Sharon, who also job-shares as a teacher at An Mhodh Scoil in Limerick. The pair stress that they’ve been “really lucky” to have had mentorship from Local Enterprise Office Clare “every step of the way”, provided assistance on the website, graphic design, basic accounting and even trademarking. They even picked up the phone to LEO Clare prior to opening their pop-up shop for Christmas, a move which has left them “buzzing”. Aoibhín adds that it was a no-brainer to open in Ennis. “It’s what inspired the products and the range, County Clare, and we’ve had great local support. We’ve been buzzing from the reaction so far – we’re not even a week in but we feel like we’ve definitely made the right decision. I’m going to be absolutely gutted when we close the doors here because it’s become our little humble abode now. We just love it, we are excited coming in, turning on the lights, and we’re really proud of it. Visit Sharon and Aoibhín in the BEO pop-up shop at 51 O’Connell Street or shop the line at beowellness.ie. PICTURED: Aoibhín Garrihy and Sharon Connellan opening their pop-up shop in Ennis last week Photos by Natasha Barton

SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA TO SHOP AT BEO WELLNESS

SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA TO START SHOPPING IN CLARE

34 CLICK FOR CLARE

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

#COAST

Oldest surf shop in Ireland still making waves in Lahinch

OUNDED in 1989 by Tom and Rosemary Buckley, Lahinch Surf Shop is the oldest surf shop in Ireland. It is still owned and operated by the Buckley family. The shop stocks multiple brands and styles of wetsuits; so they usually have something to fit everyone. Wetsuit sizes range from age 1 to 16 in juniors, Small to 4XL in mens and size 4 to 18 in women’s wetsuits. The product range is continually evolving to meet the demands of the local community, including new styles of products for the rapidly growing outdoor swimming community. The shop completed a major renovation of their website during the second lockdown last year so that

Lahinch Surf Shop sells its own merchandise and a wide range of boards, wetsuits and more; (right) the surf shop was established in 1989

it is linked to the shop stock control system. This enables customers to see if the product they want is in stock, and they can set-up a

notification for when it arrives. The website revamp was part-funded by the Local Enterprise Office Clare’s Trading Online

Voucher scheme, and the Buckleys credit this with keping the shop afloat during the 2021 lockdown. There is a wide range of surf clothing in-store, at the moment it’s too extensive to fit on the display rails. If you spot something on the website but don’t see it on display just ask one of the staff instore. The staff will advise a novice

equipment purchaser on what would be most suitable for their needs, whether that be appropriate growing room in a junior wetsuit or the length and style of board suitable for their experience level and size. They will also tell you if they don’t have something suitable for you or your needs. Stock is arriving regularly from a range of suppliers so keep an eye on that website for new arrivals and remember to use the notify me feature to get an email when SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA TO VISIT stock arrives. LAHINCH SURF SHOP

To shop at Lahinch Surf Shop visit lahinchsurfshop. com/ or call 065 708 1543.

CLICK FOR CLARE 35

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

#COAST

Shoppers in Ennis

Photo by Mike Mulcaire

Join the Green Friday movement and shop local

GOOGLE searches for “Black Friday” in Ireland have soared, up 138 per cent on last year. As well as researching what to buy, Irish shoppers are also keen to shop local with searches for “near me” increasing by 50 per cent. It is a good omen for Irish business on a mission to turn Black Friday green. Last year’s Click For Clare series echoed this, with local businesses experiencing a noted increase in online sales. Aoibhín Garrihy told The Clare Echo that BEO experienced its strongest Christmas period last year. She added that the Kilkenny Shop in Ennis outperformed all others for sales of the BEO Sleep Well range, showing an appetite for customers to support a local company. Patricia Farrell of Wilde Irish Chocolates, based in Tuamgraney, estimated that while her retail offering suffered significantly last year, she saw a 500 per cent increase in online sales. Similar stories emerged from businesses including Airmid in North Clare and Brass Boutique in Ennis, and Wild Atlantic Living in Kilrush. Green Friday Ireland is a movement to highlight the value of Small Business in local communities and will take place this Friday, November 26 to coincide with Black Friday. WHY ON BLACK FRIDAY? Traditionally Black Friday is a global day of mass consumerism, with large multinationals benefiting the most. We are asking people to rethink their behaviours and invest in their local communities and pave the way toward a smart, sustainable, and successful domestic economy. WHY NOW MORE THAN EVER? People know how much small, indigenous business means to the country, not only to our economy and our employment but also to our culture. People believe in supporting and uplifting each other and their communities. With a strong sense of community and togetherness we can over come whatever challenges lie ahead. So with that in mind, here are five great reasons to show your Love for Local - Teaspáin do ghrá go háitiúl - this Green Friday! 1. When you buy local more money goes back into your local economy strengthening the economic base of the community. Every €10 spent locally on Irish products generates more than €40 of benefit to the local community in terms of employment. 2. Local businesses give back more to the community. Non-profit organisations are said to receive an average 250 per cent more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses. 3. Shopping local keeps a community unique. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of our home towns which leads to a stronger local identity and can attract more entrepreneurship, skilled workers and tourism. 4. Shopping local enables easier greener living in many ways. Local businesses generally setting up shop in town centres as opposed to developing on the fringe means contributing less to greenhouse gas emissions, sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. 5. Local business creates more local jobs. Small local businesses are the largest employers nationally and in our community, providing the most jobs to residents. 2014 CSO figures: 69 per cent of Irish people are employed by SMEs.

36 CLICK FOR CLARE

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

#COAST

Gifting made easy from the Armada Pantry this Christmas

HE Armada Hotel has an incredible array of Christmas gifts this year, from Flights of Whiskey, Gin Tastings, Blend box Cocktails to the Armada Gift Card, which is beautifully presented and would make a lovely surprise for someone under the tree! The Gift cards are available to use in any of the bars and restaurants, including the outdoor seasonal outlets, where homemade pizza can be enjoyed from Little Johnny’s or fresh fish and chips from Catch overlooking the sea. Their hamper range has been curated to represent the valued partnerships the Armada has built with great suppliers and also local influences. The finest of local & Irish produce has been chosen for the Christmas Food and Wine Basket which features a bottle of the Armada’s own award winning Mist + Moss gin, a unique gin with seven botanicals from the Burren and a first for the Irish gin

market, the introduction of wild Irish juniper. Another one of the Armada’s hugely successful lockdown projects was the launch of the Blend Box cocktails, which are all handcrafted in house by their creative mixologists. The craft cocktails can be delivered nationwide and are ideal gifts to be enjoyed during the festive season or for corporate gifting.

SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA TO VISIT ARMADA PANTRY

www.armadapantry. com is worth a look if you need some gift inspiration this festive season.

THE CLIFFS OF MOHER CHRISTMAS CORNUCOPIA Complimentary admission for Clare residents from 1st – 23rd December

What are you waiting for –

Take a walk on our paved pathways with views to inspire

make sure you download

Dine in our cafés with Christmas treats galore

our app and audio guide

to maximise your visit.

Shop in our gift and craft shop with unique gifts from over 60 local producers Marvel at our Christmas themed visitor centre, a yuletide wonderland www.cliffsofmoher.ie

Cliffs of Moher App & Audio Guide

PLANNING 37

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

PLANNING NOTICES CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 10 BALLARD RD, LEAGARD NORTH, MILTOWN MALBAY Take notice that Mary Boohan intend to apply for planning permission for development at the above address The development consists of a private garage and associated 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 and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. PLANNING 26/11 CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL COOLTEENGOWAN, KILDYSART, CO. CLARE Take notice that Paul O’Brien & Orla Duffy intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LISSYCASEY, ENNIS, CO CLARE Take notice that Seamus & Carmel Kennedy intend to apply to the planning au-

thority for permission to construct an extension to the side of an existing dwelling house along with alterations to the existing house and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILLASPUGLONANE, LAHINCH , CO CLARE. EIRCODE V95 WK06 Take notice that Anna and Paul Ralph intend to apply for permission to RETAIN the Dwelling House as built on site, previously granted permission for under Reference P00/ 2296 & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LISCANNOR, CO CLARE Take notice that Saul Harvey intends to apply for Outline Permission to build a Dwelling House, Garage, connect to Mains Sewerage and all other associated site and ancillary works at the above

EASY TO USE SERVICE

address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYMACKEA MORE, QUILTY Take notice that D. Clancy intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect new dwelling house, garage, foul sewer treatment plant, percolation area and new site entrance 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 CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYORTLA NORTH ENNIS Take notice that Shane O Doherty intends to apply to planning authority for outline permission to construct, dwellinghouse, gargage treatment system and carry out ancillary site works at above address. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL NO. 5 SHANNON HEIGHTS, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE Take notice that Kay Queally is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct an

extension, consisting of a granny flat to an existing dwelling house 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 SITE NO.4 HOLLAND STREET, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Jack McMahon for a) permission consequent on the grant of outline permission P18-1014 to construct a dwelling house b) Permission to construct a domestic garage together with all associated site development works and connections to public services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYDUFF, BAREFIELD, CO. CLARE Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd

of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Michael Noone for a) permission to alter boundaries b) permission to upgrade existing septic tank and soakpit to an advanced wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter in existing site c) outline permission to construct an entrance, dwelling house, garage, wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter together with all associated site development works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONEYBREEN, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Shirley Halpin for permission to retain (a) domestic garage as built (b) minor fenestration changes to dwellinghouse as built (c) relocated septic tank and percolation area as constructed together with all associated site development works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation

in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 20 LISANISKA, DRUMCLIFF ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE. Take notice that I Robert McDonagh, intend to apply to the planning authority for retention permission for a steel garage used to store classic cars. 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 of Clare County Council, NewRoad, Ennis, Co. Clare V95 DXP2 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.

in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE CO. COUNCIL URLAN MORE, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that TJ Carey intends to apply for permission for development, the development will consist of the construction of a light engineering workshop with a waste water treatment system with percolation area 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 ROSEVILLE VETERINARY CLINIC ENNIS ROAD, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE. V95 E40P Take Notice that I, Louis Hassett intend to apply to Clare County Council for Retention Permission for the change of use from Antique shop & Tearooms to Veterinary clinic including ancillary site works 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 the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during it’s public opening hours. A submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority

PLACE YOUR PLANNING NOTICES WITH THE CLARE ECHO CALL 065 671 9021 EMAIL SALES@CLAREECHO.IE

Property

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

Beautiful homes all over the County

Only pub in O’Callaghan’s Mills for sale

BY STUART HOLLY HE only pub in O’Callaghan’s Mills – The Mills Tavern – is on the market, offering a unique business opportunity with a full public house licence and private dwelling combination. Fronting onto the main road in the centre of O’Callaghan’s Mills village, it is within walking distance of the local primary school, GAA club and Church while also offering easy access to both Limerick and Ennis from an idyllic location. The pub is still trading successfully with its current owner, Seán McMahon looking towards retirement after 20 years in business in the Mills. It previously also operated as a shop. Seán says, “There were three pubs in the village and this is now the only one. We’ve catered for the GAA, club nights, Christmas socials and more.” Seán adds that business, as one of the main centrepoints of O’Callaghan’s Mills, has continued to perform well at the weekends since restrictions have lifted. This mixed use property is being brought to the market by

33 ST. SENAN’S ROAD ENNIS CO. CLARE

DNG O’Sullivan Hurley for sale by Private Treaty. It also has a large open parking area, covered outdoor area for the bar, and two fully serviced bars with eight taps. DNG describe the property as offering “a multitude of opportunities for one’s own private dwelling house and business in the same location, potential to convert to one larger private dwelling attaining the funds from selling the bar licence or indeed excellent investment potential to rent one or both parts of the property. “Both the Pub and House are internally connected if needed but have independent access from the main road, own parking and entrance doorways. “The house has been modernised internally with two reception rooms, large kitchen/dining, four bedrooms and bathroom with the added advantage of private lawned gardens overlooking local lake and countryside to the rear of the property.” Viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents. PSL 002295. https://www.daft. ie/commercial-property-for-sale/ the-mills-tavern-ocallaghansmills-co-clare/3588127

€195,000

NO.33 ST. SENAN’S ROAD is a delightfully appointed three bed semi-detached home on a large 0.15-acre approx. site. Prominently located in the heart of Ennis, St. Senan’s Road is one of the town’s most established and sought-after residential areas. Buying into this area you are not just acquiring a property, you are attaining a quality of life. Walking distance to the town centre, St. Joseph’s church, primary and secondary schools, vibrant local shops, the Fair Green & swimming pool/Active Leisure Complex. The location is also within close proximity to Junction 13 of the Galway/Limerick motorway. This truly is an exceptional location. Contact: Jason Pyne SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON Tel: (065) 686 7866 PSL 001212

58 HAZELWOOD ENNIS CO. CLARE

€195,000

NO. 58 HAZELWOOD is a spacious 3-bedroom semi-detached property in an ideal location just off Clonroad More within proximity of all primary and secondary level schools, public amenities, and shopping facilities within Ennis. Built in 1995, the property extends to a generous 90.33 sq.m (973 sq.ft) approximately and has been meticulously and lovingly cared for by its current owners. The accommodation is well laid out featuring an open plan kitchen/dining room to the rear and a living room with a feature solid fuel fireplace to the front. Upstairs comprises of three double bedrooms which all feature built in wardrobes and a tasteful en-suite in the master bedroom. Rounding off the accommodation is the main bathroom. Contact: Jason Pyne SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON Tel: (065) 686 7866 PSL 001212

19 PLACE DE PLOUZANE KILRUSH CO. CLARE

AMV : €50,000

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION ON THE 9TH OF DECEMBER 2021 AT 11AM. Excellent office unit within a mixed development in the centre of this attractive heritage and maritime town of Kilrush. This office is fully fitted out with reception area, meeting room, four separate offices, three bathrooms & kitchenette area. The unit is fitted to very high specification with generous electrical specification, phone lines and is fully alarmed. Situated within the Architectural Conservation Area, this unit has its own traditional office front and is part of a most attractive scheme. Contact: Jason Pyne SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON Tel: (065) 686 7866 PSL 001212

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PSRA No. 001212

25-11-21

Clare Echo THE

pg 40

instagram.com/ClareEcho twitter.com/ClareEcho facebook.com/clareecho clareecho.ie

Shannon Town, Avenue & Ennis power on in Munster by SEAMUS HAYES

MUNSTER Junior Cup victories were recorded by Shannon Town, Ennis Town and Avenue Utd over the weekend. SHANNON TOWN IN CONTROL Shannon Town 7 Shannon Olympic 1 Venue: Lynch Park, Shannon

Shannon Town dominated this local derby when the neighbours clashed in round three on Sunday. Colin Scanlon put Town in front when he scored with a low shot from the edge of the area. Minutes later they were two up when Brian Monaghan raced into the area from the left and scored. In the 30th minute they wrapped up the game when Brian Monaghan’s corner from the right was headed to net by Colin Scanlon at the far post giving them a comfortable 3-0 lead. In the second half, Town continued their scoring run, Rory Hayes netted when Zsolt Lakos failed to hold the ball following a free kick. The ball ran loose and Hayes tapped it into net. Hayes added his second in the 55th minute before Rory Scanlon hit a great volley to the net, and he completed his hat trick in 75th minute. In injury time Olympic’s Jason Regan scored with a great shot from 20 yards

Five minutes into the second half, Tom Purtill pulled one back for Bunratty/ Cratloe but the more experienced Avenue hit back and further goals from Thomas Hehir and Gary Roche sealed their passage to the next round.

that gave Darren Whelan no chance.

Shannon Town; Darren Whelan; Cody Waller, Brian Monaghan, Steven Carroll, Colum Treacy; Gary O’Connell, Ben O’Neill, Ciaran Hackett, Rory Hayes, Brian O’Connor, Colin Scanlan; Subs: Chris Dunning for Hayes; Charlie Morrisson for Hackett; Aaron Kelly for Treacy Shannon Olympic: Zsolt Lakos; Benjamin Cantillon, Dan Clair, Matt Chelminiak, Wayne Regan; Jay Regan, Ray Quigley, Sean McDonald, Rachid Amallah, John Keogh, Declan McDonald Subs: Shane Tierney for Ray Quigley; David O’Flaherty for W. Regan

Avenue United: Paul Roche; Conor Hehir, Conor Mullen, Dylan Casey, Shane Brown, Tomas Hehir; Cian McDonagh, Cian O’Dea, Mark Roche, Gary Roche, Eliaz Kunz. Subs: Alan Roche for McDonagh; Dylan Barry for O’Dea; Stephen Jordan for M. Roche; Jamie Roche for C. Hehir; Callum Barrett for Kunz Bunratty/Cratloe; Andrew Lynch; Barry Long, Páidí Fitzpatrick, Tom Purtill, Liam Hayes; Sean Burke, Derek Maxwell, Colin Melody, Dylan Kerr; Darren Lindsay, Evan Barry; Subs: Karl Fitzmaurice for Melody; Rory Macbeth for Kerr; Emmet Costigan for Long; Richard Germaine for E. Barry;

ENNIS TOWN MARCH ON Tulla Utd 1 Ennis Town 2 Venue: The Cragg, Tulla

Ennis Town advanced to round four in the Munster junior cup with this victory over Tulla United at the Cragg on Sunday. The winners created the greater number of chances but poor finishing proved costly. The winners took the lead as early as the fifth minute when Dean Hegarty scored following a Robbie Gormley cross. Tulla had a great chance to equalise soon after but Thomas Collins headed off the line. From the resultant clearance Ennis Town broke upfield. Jashar Aliu found space outside the Tulla box and from 20 yards scored with a fine shot in the eighth minute. Tulla again came close soon after but Thomas Collins blocked a point blank shot on the line before clearing. Ennis Town kept creating the chances and when they did get their shots

on target they found Luke Woodrow in fine form in the Tulla goal as he made good saves from Robbie Gormley and Dean Hegarty. The game ebbed and flowed in the second half but Tulla could not find a way through the Ennis defence of Thomas Collins, Sean Perrill, Stephen Horgan and Johnson Mununkum, while Luke Woodrow continued to make some fine saves. Tulla got a lifeline in the 72nd minute when Darragh Corry scored a fine headed goal but that was the last time they were successful in pen-

etrating the Ennis defence. Woodrow pulled off two more finger tip saves from a Lee Clohessy strike and a Dean Hegarty free kick while in between these two attempts with Woodrow beaten Davy Keenan saw his long range strike come back off the upright. Fifteen year old Isaac O’Sullivan played his first game at junior level for the Tulla club.

Ennis Town: Aidan Jordan, Thomas Collins, Sean Perrill, Stephen Horgan, Johnson Mununkum, Peter O’Brien, Jashar Aliu, Dean Hegarty, Lee Clohessy, Robbie Gormley, Davy Keenan. Sub: Conor Meaney for O’Brien Tulla United; Luke Woodrow; Joe

O’Sullivan, Eoghan Kinsella, Darragh Corry, Adam McNamara; Darragh Murphy, Isaac O’Sullivan. Luke Meade, Craig McNamara, Eoghan Ryan, Fiachra Hale; Subs: James Wallace for O’Sullivan;, Rian McMahon for Meade; Donal Sheedy for Kinsella; Tomasso Cherubini for Ryan; Eoin Hassett for McNamara;,

ANOTHER WIN FOR AVENUE Avenue United 5 Bunratty/Cratloe 1 Venue: Roslevan

Avenue United continued their winning form when they proved too strong for Bunratty/Cratloe in this Munster junior cup tie on Sunday The winners led 3-0 at half time with goals from Dylan Casey and two from Mark Roche.

BIG GAMES FOR AVENUE AND ENNIS TOWN Two Clare clubs face big tests this Sunday when they play in round four of the FAI junior cup. The David Russell managed Avenue United are enjoying one of their best seasons in a while and they will make the long journey to Wexford to face Courtown Hibs at Ounavarra Park at 2pm. At the same time, Ennis Town will face Star Rovers from Limerick at Lee Estate in another round 4 tie. Like their fellow Ennis side, they are also enjoying a good run this season but now face what is arguably their stiffest test to date. PICTURED: Brian Monaghan was on the scoresheet and had one assist for Shannon Town Photo by Natasha Barton

Handballers chase glory at All-Ireland FOUR Clare handballers will partake in the rescheduled O’Neills All-Ireland 4 wall championship finals this weekend. Kingscourt in Cavan will host the 2020 finals this Saturday and Sunday with one game to be played in Nenagh on Friday. Clare will be represented in the Silver Masters B Singles on Saturday by Kilkishen’s Aidan Moroney who faces off with Kieran Hanley from Galway.

Also on Saturday, Gearoid Sheedy of Tuamgraney will take to the court in the Boys U17 final against Kilkenny’s Sean Barron. Fina Close of Kilkishen and Tuamgraney’s Eimear Rodgers won’t have to travel as far for their final. They will play Kilkenny duo Aisling Cooney and Áine Sharkey in Nenagh for a shot at silverware.

In the centre, Patrick Browne presents the Gilligan and McMahon Memorial Cup to Packie Hogan from Quilty, after winning the All Age Trial Stake at the Killimer/Kilrush Coursing Meeting last weekend. Also included are from the left Mary Liddane (nominator) David, Emily and Patrick Hogan. In front are Danny,David and Patrick Hogan with Tromora Danny

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Lohan adds fresh blood to CHAMPIONS OF MUNSTER Clare senior hurling panel by PÁRAIC McMAHON

A FRESH injection of youth is to be sprinkled to the Clare senior hurling panel with Brian Lohan making new additions to his squad for 2022. Lohan enters his third year as boss next season with management setting out their stall for the year ahead in a meeting with the panel over the past fortnight. The Shannon man will again be joined by Ken Ralph, James Moran and Sean Treacy in his management. At least six new panellists have been recruited with the potential for further call-ups over the coming weeks. Clarecastle goalie Cian Broderick, a Harty Cup winner with St Flannan’s College in 2020 and the county U20 custodian this year has been brought in as Eibhear Quilligan’s understudy. Fresh from an impressive club campaign for Scariff which included scoring 0-06 from play against Sixmilebridge in his first year lining out at senior, Patrick Crotty joins the panel. For the first time since Killian Ryan was part of the 2013 panel, Ruan has a representative with Robin Mounsey earning a call-up. Smith O’Briens’ intermediate success has been rewarded with Mike

Gough receiving a call to the panel. A regular member of the Éire Óg starting 15 over the past two seasons, Darren O’Brien joins the senior panel. The NUIG student has drifted between midfield and attack for the Ennis club and ties in with the management’s preference for choosing players with height when assembling a squad. As of yet, Inagh/Kilnamona’s Conner Hegarty, one of the players of the club championship, has yet to receive a call with surprise also voiced that Feakle defender Adam Hogan and Newmarket duo Eoin Guilfoyle and Éanna Crimmins have not been included in management’s plans. All Star, Peter Duggan of Clooney/ Quin has not returned to the panel, yet, The Clare Echo understands. Four players have been dropped by the two-time All-Ireland winner. Stephen O’Halloran (Clarecastle) and Colin Guilfoyle (Newmarket) made appearances during Lohan’s first year in charge, neither of the duo got a taste of championship action this year and have been released from the panel. Inagh/Kilnamona’s Eamonn Foudy who was sub goalie to Quiligan has been removed. Éire Óg defender Liam Corry has also been let go.

St Flannan’s College victorious Dean Ryan panel were presented with a new set of jerseys from joint sponsors Dakido and Donneallan Crafts. Pictured from left: Michael Donnellan (Donnellan Crafts, and team coach), Tony Kelly (coach), Kieran Donnellan (Dakido), Dylan Keane Hayes (captain), Fiachra Ó Braoin (vice captain), David Donnellan (Dakido), Jamesie O'Connor (coach).

Exciting fares marks start of U21A championship by SEAMUS HAYES

ACTION commenced in the U21 hurling championships at the weekend with the four semi-finals in the A competition now known while six teams remain in the race for B honours. Kilmaley hosted Corofin/Ruan on Saturday morning with the visitors emerging with a five point victory. In the afternoon Clonlara travelled to Inagh to face Inagh/Kilnamona and the South Clare club, winners of the minor A title three years ago, emerged with a seven point victory. Minor B winners three years ago, Scariff/Ogonnelloe got the upperhand in the second half to overcome Clarecastle while Newmarket-on-Fergus edged a thrilling contest with their neighbours Sixmilebridge. REIGN OF CHAMPS OVER Corofin/Ruan 0-13 Kilmaley 1-5 Venue: Kilmaley

Corofin/Ruan booked a place in the semi-final of the under 21 A hurling championship when they accounted for Kilmaley at the latter’s venue on Saturday morning. The winners led from the start and were two points clear at half time when the score was 0-7 to 1-2. They would not have been flattered by a greater lead at this stage as they had failed to avail of a few gilt edged chances in the opening quarter including a penalty when Shane Punch’s effort rebounded off the crossbar and went wide. The penalty was awarded for a foul of Killian O’Connor. Playing with the aid of the elements, Kilmaley posed more of an attacking threat in the second half. Goal chances were spurned

late on, Sean Ronan tapped over a free when a goal could have been an outcome while Ryan Murphy’s late free on goal was saved. Fullback Brian McNamara, defender Oisin Looney and Peter Ronan at midfield did best for Kilmaley. Centre back Gearoid Cahill filled the role of sweeper on the day and he was prominent throughout alongside Marc O’Loughlin and Killian O’Connor as the combination team overturned the result from when the sides met in the championship three years ago when Kilmaley were comprehensive winners. Fourteen of the fifteen starters for the amalgamation lined out in the intermediate championship this year demonstrating the strength and experience of their team. They controlled matters from the get-go and regularly kept their account ticking over with an abundance of scoring threats up front. For Kilmaley, the defeat ends their reign as U21 champions. The competition was not held in 2020, they were comprehensive 3-17 1-07 winners over Crusheen/Tubber in the 2019 decider when Kevin McNamara was their manager. CLONLARA PUT DOWN MARKER

Clonlara 3-15 Inagh/Kilnamona 2-11 Venue: Inagh

Six days after suffering a heartbreaking defeat in the Clare SHC final, Inagh/Kilnamona suffered more disappointment when they lost out to Clonlara in the quarter final of the under 21 A championship. First half goals from Bryan McLeish and a Cillian O’Brien penalty helped the winners to a two point half time lead with the score at 2-4 to 1-5. The home side closed the gap in the third quarter but a Tom

McCarthy. Sean Rynne, Niall Glynn and Eoin Foudy were standout performers for the hosts. NEWMARKET WIN THRILLER

Newmarket-on-Fergus 4-15 Sixmilebridge 1-22 Venue: Fr Murphy Memorial Park

Power goal saw the winners open a six point lead and they held this to the finish to claim a semi-final date against Newmarket-on-Fergus. Dominant around the middle third, Clonlara utilised Colm O’Meara to mark Conner Hegarty in the opening half while Dylan McMahon was a solid anchor at centre-back. Their wing forwards Bryan McLeish and Conor Bourke were very prominent alongside Aidan Moriarity, O’Meara, Dylan McMahon and Mick Stritch. Clonlara proved to be the more evenly balanced outfit and heightened their chances of following up their minor success at U21 level. Their balance across the field will be difficult for most teams to stop. Inagh/Kilnamona’s goals came from the Guyler brothers, Josh and Keelan. Their cause was greatly damaged by the absence of Young Hurler of the Year nominee Aidan

Goals at vital stages in the game proved significant as Newmarket-on-Fergus advanced to the semi-finals of the U21A hurling championship for the first time since 2017. Sixmilebridge were much quicker out of the blocks firing the first three points, two of which came from wing-forward Luke O’Halloran. The Blues opened their account when Peter Power struck for goal to level matters A three point lead was regained by The Bridge as they tacked on scores from accurate free-taker Jack Corry but The Blues hit back with four points on the trot to lead by a single point at the first water break. Once again, Sixmilebridge started the brighter and they hit the back of the net via Luke Keogh to lead by two points, having had a goal chance denied moments earlier. Tempers were rising as the half progressed but in the final move, Newmarket edged ahead when Cian Foley collected the sliotar and tucked it into the back of the net leaving the half-time score 2-08 1-10 in their favour. On the restart, Jason O’Neill got on the end of a goalmouth scramble for Newmarket’s third goal but they failed to build on this and allowed Sixmilebridge hit five scores without reply, mainly through Sean McNamara and Jack Corry. Points from David Frost, Éanna Crimmins and Peter Power gave Newmarket a slender 3-11 1-15 lead at the fi-

nal water break. Extra time looked likely during the closing stages, Newmarket were boosted back into the lead by Eoin Guilfoyle before Power scored his second goal. The Bridge replied through Corry frees and he had a late goal chance saved as Newmarket held on for victory giving the club a timely lift. SCARIFF/OGONNELLOE TAKE CONTROL IN SECOND HALF

Scariff/Ogonnelloe 2-15 Clarecastle 0-12 Venue: Ogonnelloe

Scariff/Ogonnelloe produced a strong second half showing to account for Clarecastle and seal their place in the U21A semi-finals. With Oisin Casey in top form on freetaking duty the magpies led at the interval on a scoreline of 0-10 to 1-4. The East Clare side were never too far away from their opponents and had a bit more electricity up front. Scariff/Ogonnelloe stepped up a gear on the changeover and an early second half goal gave them a one point lead which they held at the midpoint of the half when the score was 2-6 to 0-11. Five minutes from time they had stretched their advantage to six points, helped by four points in a row. Mark Rodgers caused a lot of problems for Clarecastle alongside Patrick Crotty who hit 0-03 from play. Three years ago, Scariff/Ogonnelloe defeated Broadford Smith O’Briens in the Minor B decider and they will be hopeful of following up on this success. Clarecastle contested the Minor A final against Clonlara three years ago and their loss follows the club’s recent relegation from the senior ranks.

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Mourneabbey get physical Burren Gaels fall just short to lower Banner Ladies by EOIN BRENNAN

BANNER Ladies were powerless to stop Mourneabbey from completing a third successive victory over the Clare champions in Mallow on Sunday. Mourneabbey (Cork) 3-15 Banner Ladies 3-5 Venue: Mallow, Cork

Having just been pipped to Munster glory in the 2014 decider, the Banner have witnessed Mourneabbey’s development path at first hand, with the gap widening in the 2016 final to where the perennial Cork champions currently reign supreme as back-to-back All-Ireland Senior club champions. Their bid for a seventh consecutive Munster crown began in commanding fashion as their physical superiority was a crucial factor in keeping the Banner at arm’s length throughout. The Ennis side obstinately made life difficult for their opponents through timely goals but thanks to an ever-impressive display from Doireann O’Sullivan who scored eight points and provided the assist for all three goals, Mourneabbey never wavered from their task. Captain Emma O’Driscoll made a superb point blank save just before the first water break, a pivotal stop as only seconds later Niamh O’Dea had

The Banner’s Aoibheann Malone Photo by Gerard O’Neill

the ball in the net at the other end to lessen the damage to two at 1-5 to 1-3. Mourneabbey had raced into an early advantage predominantly through O’Sullivan and Laura Fitzgerald’s eighth minute goal against the conditions and would set about rebuilding that advantage with five of the next six points to open up their biggest to date early in the new half at 1-10 to 1-4. Bounding back off the ropes,

Grainne Nolan pounced on a defensive error from Niamh O’Dea’s free to finish a ground shot to the net and halve the deficit to just three by the 34th minute. Mourneabbey’s answer was swift as from the kick-out, O’Sullivan powered through before offloading to Ellie Jack to grab a goal before an almost identical move, this time with Ciara O’Callaghan the finisher, effectively sealed matters by the twothirds mark at 3-11 to 2-4. There was a glimmer of light when Mourneabbey’s Anna Ryan was sinbinned entering the final ten minutes. However, Mourneabbey only stretched their advantage before the finish despite the Banner raiding for a late Aoibhin Ryan goal. Laurie Ryan, Clare Hehir, Aoife Keane, Grainne Nolan, Niamh O’Dea and teenage substitute Caoimhe Cahill all did their utmost to stem the tide but the Banner won’t be the only side to struggle to halt Mourneabbey’s juggernaut.

by SEAMUS HAYES

Valley Rovers, Cork 1-9 Burren Gaels 0-9 Venue: Gleann Chiosog, Carron

CLARE intermediate football champions Burren Gaels put up a great display against favourites Valley Rovers from Cork in the Munster championship quarter final on Saturday but, in the end the visitors prevailed by three points. Valley Rovers settled quickly and raced into a four point lead as they hit the first four scores before Sally King opened the home side’s account. The Clare champs grew in confidence and points from Teresa Collins, Emma Healy and a brace from Lizzy Roche levelled it 0-5 each at half time. Top scorer Lizzy Roche had the opening score of the second half which gave Burren Gaels the lead for the first time. The visitors hit back with a brace but Burren did likewise and two more from Lizzy Roche had the Clare side ahead by the minimum margin at the second water break. Ten minutes from time Valley Rovers got through for what proved to be the crucial score, the game’s only goal.

Burren Gaels; Blaithnead Sheedy; Aine Hegarty, Aoife Forde, Ailbhe McGann; Katie Connole, Caoilinn McCormack, Aileen O’Reilly; Orla O’Gorman (captain), Nora O’Dwyer; Laura Griffey, Teresa Collins (0-1), Emma Healy (0-1); Shannon McCormack, Sally King (0-1), Lizzy Roche (0-6); Subs: Roisin McNamara for S. King; Niamh McNamara for N. O’Dwyer; Grainne Howley for K. Connole. Laura Mc Gann for Orla O’Gorman

Banner Ladies: Emma O’Driscoll; Sinead O’Keeffe, Clare Hehir, Siobhan McMahon; Laoise Ryan, Laurie Ryan, Eva O’Dea; Sarah Ní Cheallaigh (0-1), Aoife Keane; Shonagh Enright, Grainne Nolan (1-1, 1f), Louise Woods; Aoibheann Malone, Niamh O’Dea (1-2, 1f), Aoibhin Ryan (1-1) Subs: Caoimhe Cahill for Enright (13), Alannah McNamara for Laurie Ryan (38, inj), Ryan for Ní Cheallaigh (47)

Little to separate teams in camogie replay by SEAMUS HAYES

CLARE camogie followers are still talking about the excitement the drawn county senior final generated two weeks ago and all are confident that this Saturday’s replay will result in another hugely exciting contest. Opinions amongst Clare players and mentors are divided as to who will be taking home the McMahon Cup on Saturday evening but all are in agreement that this will be another extremely close affair. Inagh/Kilnamona and Clare captain Clare Hehir says nominating a winner is “a tough question as they look to be two evenly balanced teams. Scariff/Ogonnelloe will rue missed chances in the first half in the drawn game. The fact that they came back from four points down in injury time shows the character and strength that is in the team”. Clare is busy putting the final touches to Inagh/Kilnamona’s preparations for the 2020 Munster club final which takes place on this Sunday when they take on Drom&Inch from Tipperary at Kileedy in Limerick at 12.30p.m. Looking at the Clare decider, Hehir believes that “Scariff/Ogonnelloe will prevail this time as they have the greater experience. That said Truagh/Clonlara have the ability to be really threatening up front and they will have got over the nerves of appearing in their first county final which should benefit them”. She believes that Mairead Scanlan could prove the key player in Saturday’s replay and described the Clare championship as “one of the best in Munster and this can only mean good things for Clare camogie”. Dual star Niamh O’Dea backs Truagh/ Clonlara to win their first Clare senior title.

“They have a lethal forward line which really clicked in the second half in the drawn game and they will need to deliver that type of performance from the start this week. They were very slow to start the last day and Scariff missed a number of chances”. “These are good times for Clare camogie. There are loads of players who are knocking on the door for inclusion in the county squad and it’s great to see them putting their hands up for selection. The younger players stood out in the drawn final,” she said. The Kilfenora native who plays her club camogie with Kilmaley believes that “a lot of the hype that goes with county final day will have worn down a bit this week and if Truagh/Clonlara can shake off the nerves, it will benefit them. I think that they will just about get over the line this week”. Joint Clare manager, Conor Dolan admitted to being impressed with the standard of this year’s campaign. “This is a very difficult one to call. Truagh/Clonlara never got going in the first half in the drawn game and the goal they scored before half time kept them in the tie. They cut loose in the second half and if they can get a good start this week, they will be fancying their chances”. That said the Meelick man acknowledged the experience of Scariff-Ogonnelloe. “They were Munster club champions a few years ago. This is very close to call. The shock of appearing in a first county final is over and done with for Truagh/Clonlara. They are two evenly and well balanced sides and anything can happen. A minor thing can swing the initiative one way or the other. Free taking could prove vital on the day. Teams will have to take their chances as a missed free

on either side could sway this one”, he said. “This is super for Clare camogie. There are massive numbers challenging for places on county panels. I won’t be surprised if this replay requires extra time. Its very hard to

call and it could go either way,” Dolan concluded. Photo by Gerard O’Neill

pg 43

25-11-21

Fast Fit Paddy bows out of Irish St Leger THE Final of the Matchbook Betting Exchange Irish St, Leger at Limerick Greyhound Stadium this Saturday is the main focus for Greyhound interest this coming weekend. Clare’s big interest Fast Fit Paddy owned by John Quin of Gort and trained by Declan McDonagh in Liscannor bowed out of the classic after traffic problems at the first bend on Saturday night last. Anthony and Mark Cusack from Cooraclare were beaming however when Sugan Snowey recorded her first career success in 29.43, Snowey is a daughter of Skywalker Tuco and Sugan Jet and is the fifth member of this litter to grace the winners enclosure. It was a prolific evening for Clare in Limerick; Inislosky Jasper got the banner flag flying when he notched career win number four in a personal best of 29.33. Jasper is owned by Mary Crotty from O’Briensbridge. Tom Flanagan from Ennistymon landed the spoils with Mythical Orchard in 29.25, a third career victory for this daughter of Dorotas Wildcat and Flandys Hawkeye. Quin’s dynamic duo, Frank and Mary Browne were to the fore with Mine Robin, a daughter of Velvet John Joe and Sawdust Café, for career win number eight when she crossed the line in a winning time of 29.23. Michael and Donnacha McNamara are reaping the benefits of their Droopys Cain and Sues Stout litter and this was no different last night when Rockalong Sierra put the pedal to the floor to

win by 3 lengths in 28.93. Fanore publican, Patrick O’Donoghue was successful in the bumper race when John Boy Jack recorded win number three and a PB in 29.36, this son of Skywalker Puma and Ballistic Nina is trained by O’Callaghan Mills man Donal Cooney. Last Saturday night at Thurles Greyhound Stadium, Dee Bee Lord gave an eye-catching performance for the Dee Bee Flyer syndicate when he got off the mark in his racing career in 29.33. Lord is a son of Ballymac Vic and Dee Bee Duchess. This Syndicate is a Feakle, Newmarket-on-Fergus, and Clarecastle combo, comprising of Gary and Damien Pepper, Seanie McMahon, Michael Corry and Tommy Heagrthy. Flyer is trained by renowned Tipperary trainer Paraic Campion. When the traps rose for the S8 graded contest at Galway on Friday, the red jacketed Pats Alloy was away smartly along the fence to lead towards the opening bend with Giddyupgar and No Risk also prominent. Rounding the bend the Martin Griffin of Lissycasey owned No Risk swept to the front round the outside and although maintaining a wide berth around the home bend, the daughter of Laughill Blake and Nebraska Scot was clear as she stayed in well to defeat Pats Alloy by a length and three parts in 19.58. Race three was a novice contest over the 525 yards trip and from traps Burkos Lizzie was away like the wind from her trap three berth and approaching the

opening bend she led Astro Podge and her litter sister Carokers Trixie by over five lengths. Racing down the back straight Burkos Lizzie continued to show the way but from the halfway mark the Madden-Pepper Syndicate of Feakle owned Astro Podge began to bridge the gap to the leader. Between the final two bends, the son off Ballymac Best and Dynamic Cool Sky loomed up on the leaders outside before the Donie Duggan of Tulla trained runner gradually gained the upper hand to score by a length in 29.50. The outcome of the S5 graded sprint contest rested between the fast starting pair Risky Reward and Room To Stop with the Sean O’Riordan owned Risky Reward always holding the upper hand from the home bend as she recorded her second career success by three and a half lengths in 19.07. Room Ton Stop began the better of the pair and led by two lengths early doors but as the opening bend loomed the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Risky Reward swept through on the leaders inner to take command . The concluding A3 graded 525 Yards contest was the top graded contest of the night and as they raced towards the opening bend Merciful Ali and Give It Up matched strides just on front of Brickhill Layla along the inside rail. At the turn, Clare natives John Collins and Albert Long owned Brickhill Layla was stuck to the inside rail as she slipped through to lead and turn down the back straight a length clear of Bre-

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leaders inner but Brickhill Layla responded gamely and the daughter of Droopys Sydney and Rathmeehan

May stayed on well to defeat Merciful Ali by two and three quarter lengths in 29.23.

Mulqueen is Dromoland golfer of the year by SEAMUS HAYES

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: Denis Mulqueen has been named as Dromoland Golf Club’s golfer of the year. He was presented with his trophy in recent days as the club continues to acknowledge its members. In the men’s 18 hole singles stableford competition, scoring was very keen with the leading players both returning 44 points. Tony Cotgreave was the winner from Shane Browne with third spot filled by Vincent Derham with 40 points followed by Brendan Spicer with a similar score. David O’Brien won the gross with 33 points. Siobhan Fitzpatrick was the winner of the ladies turkey/wine and chocolate competition with 19 points. She had one to spare over Mairead Bergin with third place filled by Carola Wixted who also scored 18 points. KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The weekly November turkey competition was won by Tony McMahon (11) with 29 points from Anthony Gilmartin (12) with 28. Pat J. Shannon (8) was third with 28 points followed by Sean Lyons (11), also 28 points.

SHANNON GOLF CLUB: Last week’s 15 hole turkey competition was won by Paul Hayes (22) with 39 points from Paul Ryan (27) with 38 points. Aaron Shanagher (19) was third with 38 followed by Brendan Healy (18), also 38 points. Reece Hickey (7) won the gross with 28 points WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: The Autumn league continued at Woodstock when the winners were Paul and Declan Coote, Fran Feighery and Chaye Kelly with 92 points. They had six to spare over Brendan Neylon, Ronan O’Looney, Jonathan Clohessy and Michael Coughlan. In third with 85 points were Joe Kennedy, Joe Mullins, Martin Hayes and Mike Liddy. The league continues this week when the format will be singles with the top 4 teams qualifyinh for the matchplay section. In the club singles Pat Keane won with 40 points from Cathal Nagle with a similar score. There will be a similar competition this week for those not in the Autumn league. ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The men’s fourball competition at Ennis last weekend was won by Sean Ryan (26) and

Matt Flynn (11) with 47 points. They had one to spare over Darren McGill(14) and Cian Griffin (21) while third spot was filled by Tadhg Cullinan (20) and

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QUIZ 47

THURSDAY, NOV 25 2021

The Clare Echo Quiz

The tallest building in the world How many kilometres is it from 1many is the Burj Khalifa (828m). How 6 Loophead Lighthouse to the Statue of Liberty in New York? times taller is it than the Ennis Cathedral? 12 18 26

Why was the statue of Icarus in Ennis erected?

As a lightning conductor To celebrate Ennis’s 750 year anniversary To attract Greek tourists

2,394 4,889 7,414

Dromoland Gazebo, which can 7 be seen from the M18, was built in 1740 but what was its purpose?

Vantage point to observe training of horses A house for the head groundskeeper Function room for general community

At what elevation is O’Brien’s The Daniel O’Connell monument 8 Tower at the Cliffs of Moher? 3 in Ennis was erected in 1867 – but which hand does the Liberator have

which year was Moneypoint 4InPower Station completed? 1967 1977 1987

Built in 1925, Ardnacrusha took u phow much of the Government’s annual revenue budget to construct? 1% 12% 20%

Mooghaun Ringfort is believed to 9 be the largest hill fort in Ireland. Where is it located? Newmarket-on-Fergus Barefield Labasheeda

l QUESTION 6: How many kilometres is it from Loophead Lighthouse to the

Statue of Liberty in New York?

The round tower at Inis Ceal10 tra, or Holy Island, was founded by which saint? Senan Tola Colum

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

6. 4,889 7. Vantage point to observe training of horses 8. 289ft 9. Newmarket-on-Fergus 10. Colum

Left Right Neither hand

190ft 289ft 535ft

ANSWERS 1. 12 2. To celebrate Ennis’s 750... 3. Right 4. 1987 5. 20%

raised in the depiction?

Last weeks Answers . number 5 missing . ‘:’ missing on sign . Ballyea scarf missing around neck of person in grey (middle left)

. Top of E on Exit sign missing . Program held by man different colour (middle) . Crest missing on man (left) . Jacket different colour (right)

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