The Clare Echo 28/11/24

SHANNON LIGHTS UP Fianna Fáil tipped for extra seat

CLARE’s four TDs to serve in the 34th Dáil will be elected this weekend.

On Friday, the Clare public will go to the polls and study what will be the longest ever ballot paper in the county for a General Election with a total of twenty candidates in the field.

Political pundits are predicting Fianna Fáil will win an extra seat

in Clare, Fine Gael are tipped to hold onto a seat in the county with Sinn Féin, the Greens, Independents and the two big parties all set to be in contention for the final seat.

In 2020, 65.9 percent of the Clare electorate turned out to vote and the people of the county are being urged to use their democratic right to go and vote this Friday.

Polling stations will be open from 7am and

will close at 10pm on Friday. The Clare Echo will be reporting from Treacy’s West County Hotel with up-to-the-minute updates on clareecho.ie across the weekend.

l Shannon Springs Hotel co-owner John Gavin alongside James Sexton and Santa Claus, turning on the lights at Shannon Springs last Thursday. More photos on p28

Photo by Natasha Barton

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Ballot Beats

Páraic McMahon follows Election candidates on their campaign trails. pg31-39

Squabble between health activists at election hustings

by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

HEALTH SERVICES in Clare remain an emotive subject and a clash between local activist groups sparked off this week.

At election hustings, it is generally between political candidates where things get heated but on Monday evening it representatives from different health activist groups that clashed.

back”.

Ennis woman, Sinead Madden who conducted an independent study into the provision of acute hospital beds in the Mid-West region was the chief organiser of Monday’s event.

from the top of the floor with a microphone in hand and then landed a copy of the report on

our supporters to attack other campaigners or health advocates. We will never apologise

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Eleven of the twenty General Election candidates attended the Hybrid Simulation Modelling Lab (HSML) forum on Monday evening where the subject was solely health. Dan Danaher of The Clare Champion was the chair of the forum.

During her contribution she referenced the work of Friends of Ennis Hospital and said one of their maps on improving health services in Mid-West “left it at average” and did not identify how further inroads could be made.

l LEARNING IN COMFORT: Matheo Boghi and Mark Sexton, Holy Family School, Ennis trying out the newly opened DeValera Library in Ennis. The brand new DeValera County Library opened its doors to the public on Monday morning. The 2,321sqm building on Causeway Link, Ennis comprises a public library over two floors which includes the local studies centre, a

a gallery and the County Library headquarters

Chairperson of Friends of Ennis Hospital, Angela Coll attempted to respond at this moment but was not let and was informed there would be an opportunity to ask questions later in the discussion.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Candidates in attendance included, Eddie Punch (II), Kevin Hassett (IND), Cathal Crowe TD (FF), Leonora Carey (FG), Senator Timmy Dooley (FF), Cllr Rita Mcinerney (FF), Amanda Major (IND), Dr Tom Nolan (FG), Hilary Tonge (SD), Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND) and Michael Leahy (IFP).

CHIEF EXECUTIVE of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling is to retire from the role next month.

When given the opportunity to speak, Angela criticised the manner in which it was suggested all their work “boils down to one map”. Sinead responded, “on the emergency department population for this particular map you left it at that and didn’t continue on the qualification”.

Dowling to retire as Chief Executive

confirmed in correspondence issued to the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) on Monday morning. His retirement will become effective from December 31.

Youth Worker with Clare Diocesan Youth Service, now Clare Youth Ser vice and concluding it as Chief Executive of Clare County Council.

Dowling’s exit had been expected but was

Absent candidates told The Clare Echo there was confusion with the date of the event while organisers have admitted emails to candidates “bounced

Angela advised “not all of the document we submitted to HIQA is on our website, we did deliberately withhold some of that information. Fifteen years of work by me and my colleagues doesn’t boil down to maps”.

Appointed to post in June 2016 on a seven year term, the Knockaderry native arrived in Áras Contae an Chláir in September 2016 as Chief Executive and has since November 2016 lived in Kilkee with his wife Rose. The 61 year old is a father of six.

As the event was drawing to a close, Sinead was issuing her thanks to all for attending. She said, “We’re all here for Clare, I asked three campaign groups to participate in the survey, two did and Friends of Ennis Hospital did not, I made four attempts to contact Friends of Ennis Hospital but got nothing. I think going forward both groups should be together, if we don’t have continuity how are we going to fight against Limerick, everything is a fight to try get stuff, we need to come together on this, I’d love Friends of Ennis Hospital to come on board. I know Angela is here, who else is on Friends of Ennis Hospital? I’m not diminishing the work but it would be good for the county if both worked together”.

“It has been my privilege to serve the Council and the county for almost eight and a half years and it is my earnest hope that I have made a positive contribution to the reputation and standing of the organisation and the county. Working with Clare County Council has represented the pinnacle of my career and I thank all the members, present and former for their support and co-operation during that time.

Culligan’s lap. “We asked for further clarification, we didn’t want any confusion,” Deirdre said.

Coll outlined that they mentioned the prospect of a model four hospital to Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) in April to which Sinead said, “I’m the only person to have a study in the Mid-West mentioning a model four”.

Claims were then made regarding social media comments and not acknowledging Sinead’s paper to which Culligan stated, “it wouldn’t stand up in court”.

for advocating solely for county Clare, we are proud to wave the saffron and blue. We will always fight for patient safety and be cognisant of the data produced by prior health care reports regarding the population requirements to maintain a safe level of clinical standards”.

Feirme and rural development with Kildare Leader Company.

In March 2023, he informed the Department of Local Government and the Public Appointments Service that he wished to avail of the option of a three year extension to his seven year appointment. Twenty months on, he has announced he is to retire from the role. It means his first and last jobs were based in Co Clare, having started his career as a

“I look forward to observing the exploits of Clare County Council from my home in West Clare and I wish you all well for the future,” he said in correspondence of elected members of the Council on Monday morning.

Outgoing Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) when attempting to diffuse the situation said both groups “have done great work” and said the county needs them to be in unison as he urged the chair to bring the evening to a halt.

Glowing tributes were made by county councillors at Monday’s meeting of the Council where he also received a standing ovation.

Seated beside Angela was PRO of the group, Deirdre Culligan who stated, “We asked for clarification points” and she claimed they asked Sinead for a copy of her report. “Why would I give a private report to someone else, I don’t want it plagiarised,” Sinead stated while confirming only Bernard Gloster and Sandra Broderick of the HSE have viewed her report along with Danaher.

Before moving to Clare, Pat was Deputy Chief Executive for Limerick City and County Council with responsibility for Social Development. His first role in local government was in 1999 when he joined the Limerick Corporation, previously he worked with Clare Youth Service, National Youth Council of Ireland, Macra na

Madden made her way

In 1983, he graduated with a degree in European Studies from the National Institute for Higher Education which is now the University of Limerick and during his time there was placed on co-op at the United Nations in New York and lived at the time with his older brother Michael, who is now the President and Chief Executive Officer of Northwell Health. His second placement while in university was in the European Parliament. He received a bronze medal for exceptional achievement when graduating.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Angela said “Since its foundation in 2009 friends of Ennis hospital has maintained a data driven patient focused approach to challenging the status quo in terms of healthcare in the Mid-West region. Our data sources are openly available on our website and we have built up a database of facts figures and numbers over many years and hours of tedious and time-consuming research. We are non-political and do not drive any agenda other than better patient outcomes for people in our county”.

She continued, “There are certain actions we will never take and certain views we will not waiver from we will never abuse the trust placed in us by

As Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat oversaw the transfer of the Shannon Heritage tourism sites to the local authority which he previously described as “one of the biggest risks” in the 125 year history of the Council. He was involved in the multi-million euro redevelopment of the Vandeleur Walled

Friends of Ennis Hospital is not part of the Mid-West Hospital Campaign “because we do not share their commitment to the reopening of 3 EDs in the Mid-West. We do not see that as a feasible practical or cost effective solution to overcrowding in UHL FEH were at one time part of the Midwest Health campaign but were kicked out in April of 2023 after a post on our Facebook account stated that ‘that an A& E in Nenagh was of no use whatsoever to the people of West Clare’. We stand over that assessment from our PRO Deirdre Culligan as Nenagh is as far from Loop Head as UHL is. While their reaction was disappointing we did not hold a grudge and moved on with our own body of work”. Sinead confirmed to The Clare Echo that she has not been a member of either group but follows the activities of both. “By uniting our efforts, we can push for healthcare services that meet national best-practice standards or surpass them. Clare’s health infrastructure must be designed with a 50-year vision, ensuring sustainability and excellence,” she said.

Garden in Kilrush; and the most significant tourism project to be undertaken in East Clare with the development Inis Cealtra visitor centre. On two occasions during his tenure, Clare County Council was named local authority of the year.

He was also to the fore in Lahinch’s hosting of the 2019 Dubai Duty Free Irish Open serving as a major success. Also under Dowling’s watch, the County Council has voted to implement the highest charge of local property tax on a consistent basis. He has always stressed the importance of the Council maintaining a balanced budget and noted his pride at the local authority never recording a deficit during his tenure. He previously issued promises that issues at Blake’s Corner would be solved during his term as Chief Executive and has been a central figure in the creation of the Ennis 2040 Designated Active Company (DAC).

Sinead Madden, Dan Danaher, Deirdre Culligan and Angela Coll

100sqm

Photo by Eamon Ward

Whitegate mother leads fight for respite house in East Clare

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A WHITEGATE mother of four is pleading with Clare’s elected TDs to fight for a respite house to be opened in East Clare.

Anne Malone has been a long-time campaigner for improved disability services and even successfully secured the first special needs assistant in Ireland, a process which took three and a half years.

She is now battling for a respite house in East Clare to help her daughter Emma and others with intellectual disabilities in the locality. A respite house had been in operation in Scariff but closed three and a half years ago, Emma had attended it for three years prior to this. Her efforts for an East Clare facility have been ongoing for two years but she feels the matter needs to be highlighted in advance of the General Election.

No politician has called to Anne’s door in twenty four years, she claimed. “Any politician that is willing to take this on is guaranteed my vote and the four votes

in this house,” she told The Clare Echo. “The difference it would make to us as a family would be unimaginable,” she said of the prospect of a respite house.

Thirty four year old Emma currently attends Scariff Outreach, a support service for adults who have an intellectual disability and/or autism. Anne explained, “She has an intellectual disability, and she’s got cerebral palsy

but her biggest problem is her speech. She can’t live alone, but her speech is really her biggest issue and you know intellectual, she wouldn’t understand money, if she had €50 she wouldn’t really know the price of a sandwich. Just to look at her, she looks perfect, like if she walked in now you’d say what is this woman talking about, she looks perfect but she’s not perfect, she’s good

Over €300k raised in 24 hours for Corofin’s Joe following life-changing injury

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

VER €300k has been raised in less than 24 hours for a Corofin sporting star left with life-changing injuries.

Joe Slattery suffered life-changing injuries in a freak accident on Thursday (November 21st) when training with the Corofin/Ruan U16 hurlers. He underwent an operation on Friday and is continuing his recovery.

Large crowds attended a prayer service for Joe and the Slattery family at St Brigid’s Church in Corofin.

A spokesperson for Corofin GAA club relayed the appreciation of the Slattery family “for all the well wishes, prayers, and thoughtfulness shown during this difficult time. As you will be aware, Joe had his surgery on Friday and is in a controlled induced coma.

“He himself has expressed thanks to everyone thinking of him in his hour of need. Right now, there will be no further updates on his recovery as the family will need time and space to process the long road ahead for Joe. Joe, as always, will take on a battle and knowing how much support and goodwill is out there for him will help him along the way”.

An online appeal which commenced on Tuesday has received tremendous support for Joe who represented Clare underage at hurling and football and this year was a member of the county U16 panel.

His uncle Clive explained that the injuries will necessitate lifelong care. “Joe is a

big brother, a son, a friend and a team-mate. He is loved and respected by all who know him. He has represented Clare in hurling and football and was Junior Cert student of the year 2024 in his school. We, Joe’s family, ask for your help in supporting Joe in adapting to his changed life. Anything you can contribute will make a difference in Joe’s future. In addition, you can help by sharing the page and keeping Joe in your thoughts”.

On the funds raised to date, Clive stated, “We are blown away by the generosity of the response. It’s humbling”.

and she’s better than a lot of people would be”.

“Overall she is very good but Emma can’t live alone. She can’t go away on her own so having respite is the equivalent of her going away a night a month, it would give her the chance to be a normal person and it would give her a break from us”.

What happens in the future is a worry for Anne.

“The time will come when we’re not here, it’s a burden leaving behind that nobody wants to leave behind. I find now the hardest part is thinking what happens Emma when we’re not here”.

She continued, “When we’re gone, that’s my biggest worry is for my family. We love Emma with all our heart but we haven’t been able to do a tonne of the things that we would like to have done. Her brother Derek was in the Irish Paralympic team, he has cerebral palsy, he was running in the Paralympics in Athens and two of us couldn’t go because Emma wouldn’t go so her Dad stayed at home and I went, he got his medal but his Daddy missed out on all of that because she didn’t want to come. This is

the thing, I don’t want her brothers and sisters to be missing out and there’s no way they’ll abandon Emma”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Anne shared her frustration that the opportunity to acquire a property for this purpose adjacent to the Scariff Outreach in Market Square was passed up on after it went on the market for €400,000. “They say it has to be a bungalow and it can’t be a two-storey house but there is a property across the road from the day service, it was brand new and they couldn’t have had much to do with it, it was a two storey house, nearly all of them are capable of going up the stairs so you could put the others downstairs can’t you, they’re not all going to be there together at the same time. It didn’t make sense to me, they could have walked across the road to the respite independently provided the traffic calming measures were done, that would have made a difference to them”.

Provision of such a respite house somewhere between Killaloe and Scariff is achieveable, she maintained. “I see no reason why

it shouldn’t happen because it’s a right and, I mean, you can’t expect the whole of East Clare to go into one house, to cram into one house, Shannon is an hour away from here, I mean why should you have to be an hour away from your family when you go into respite, you like to feel that your family are near you. In Scariff, Emma knows everybody, she knows more people there than me. She has to go to all the shops to chat to all the owners because she knows them all, everybody knows her, she’s already integrated into their community, so you should keep them in their community and that’s where they’re happy in their community. You can’t make sudden changes with people with intellectual disability. It throws them completely off guard. I mean, Simon Harris was on the other night, and he told us about all the money he tucked away for a rainy day, why waste money, look at the cost of petrol going to Shannon three or four times a week, I mean put it all together and you would have respite houses”.

lRESPITE CENTRE: Emma and Anne Malone at home in Whitegate

Photo by: Ruth Griffin

l €300k: Joe Slattery

General Election candidates polled on Shannon Airport, Ennis emergency department & Garda merger

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GENERAL ELECTION

candidates who participated in The Electoral Chair: Election Debate were questioned on some of the key issues facing the county in the next five years.

On Shannon Airport, Ennis Hospital and the continued merger of the Clare and Tipperary Garda Divisions, candidates were asked for yes or no responses to the following three questions.

If elected will you stop the lifting of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport?

Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) YES

Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) YES

Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) NO

Michael Loughrey (IP) YES

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) YES

Matthew Moroney (IND) YES

Paddy Murphy (IND) YES

Eddie Punch (II) YES

Tom Nolan (FG) YES

Cathal Crowe TD (FF) YES

Amanda Major (IND) YES

Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND) YES

Kevin Hassett (IND) YES

Michael Leahy (IFP) YES

Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) YES

Hilary Tonge (SD) YES

Leonora Carey (FG) YES

Community Heroes Celebrated: Clare’s

local volunteers set to be honoured

Can and will you get the Government to locate an emergency department in Ennis if elected?

Leonora Carey (FG) YES

Cathal Crowe TD (FF) YES

Kevin Hassett (IND) YES

Michael Leahy (IFP) YES

Amanda Major (IND) YES

Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) YES

Tom Nolan (FG) YES

Hilary Tonge (SD) YES

Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND) YES

Senator Timmy Dooley (FF YES

Paddy Murphy (IND) YES

Matthew Moroney (IND) YES

Eddie Punch (II) YES

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) YES

Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) YES

Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) YES

International Volunteer Day will be marked in Ennis next Thursday with an event celebrating the remarkable contribution made by individuals who have selflessly dedicated their time and talents to a variety of volunteer roles across County Clare.

Are you in favour of the continued merger of the Clare & Tipperary Garda Division?

Leonora Carey (FG) NO

Cathal Crowe TD (FF) NO

Kevin Hassett (IND) NO

Michael Leahy (IFP) NO

Amanda Major (IND) NO

Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) NO

Tom Nolan (FG) YES

Hilary Tonge (SD) NO

Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND) NO

Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) NO

Paddy Murphy (IND) NO

Matthew Moroney (IND) NO

Eddie Punch (II) NO

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) NO

Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) NO

Lisdoonvarna Crew.

Hosted by the Clare Volunteer Centre and Clare County Council’s Community Integration Forum, the ‘Volunteer Recognition Event’ is being held at Tracey’s West County Hotel on Thursday 5th December at 7.00 pm

The organisers said the ceremony will help to shine a spotlight on the countless hours, skills, and passion that volunteers registered through the Clare Volunteer Centre contribute to communities across Clare.

The occasion also will feature a celebration of County Clare’s diverse and inclusive communities, the presentation of prizes to the winners of the Clare Community Art Competition, and musical entertainment by the St Michael’s Choir and the

According to Cllr. Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, “Our volunteers play an essential part in strengthening our communities from supporting local events and initiatives to offering vital services to those in need.

These volunteers exemplify the spirit of generosity and commitment that makes Clare an exceptional place to live and work, which is why it is important that we use the occasion of International Volunteer Day to acknowledge their role.”

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council reflected on the contribution that volunteers make throughout the county, “This event has been organised to acknowledge the invaluable and sincere efforts of volunteers across Clare and to offer a token of our appreciation for their invaluable service. Having this volunteering spirit available to our county is inspirational and testament to the pride and passion

the people of Clare have for their county.”

Sharon Meaney of the Clare Volunteer Centre commented, “We wanted to recognise the volunteers who are registered with the Clare Volunteer Centre and who have done multiple and diverse roles. We have volunteers who held more than 40 different volunteer roles since registering, and this event is about giving back to them, celebrating their achievements, and reinforcing the powerful impact they continue to make in our community. In addition to public acknowledgment and thanks, the evening will foster connections among the volunteers, nurturing a deeper sense of community and solidarity.”

For more information about the Volunteer Recognition Event or if you would like to find out more about the work of Clare Volunteer Centre, visit www.volunteerclare.ie or contact the Centre at 065 68 45517 / info@volunteerclare.ie.

JESSIE MONOCO NADINE

Fianna Fáil predicted to regain lost seat in Clare & Cooney on course for success

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FIANNA FÁIL are set to win back a seat they lost in the 2020 General Election and elect two TDs in Co Clare while Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) is on course to prevail in his first Dáil bid.

On Friday, the people of Clare will head to the polls to elect the county’s four TDs to represent them in Dáil Éireann.

A record-long ballot paper of twenty candidates are in the field with the election count to take place on Saturday and potentially into Sunday at Treacy’s West County Hotel in Ennis. It will be the first election for Rita Considine as returning officer who has succeeded Pat Wallace.

On the latest episode of The Electoral Chair, The Clare Echo’s political podcast, founder of Clare FM, Caimin Jones, Gerry Flynn who served as a county councillor from 2004 to 2024 and Eugene Drennan who masterminded the election successes of James Breen (IND), Dr Michael Harty (IND) and Verona Murphy (IND) previewed the outcome in Co Clare.

Clare’s outcome will be “simple enough,” explained Flynn who predicted Fianna Fáil will take two seats with one each for Fine Gael and Sinn Féin. “I’m a bit of a anorak. I love it. I love the whole

thing around elections. And as I said, it’s very similar to sport. Only that it is a blood sport, politics, you know, and people do, you know, get a kicking at times and some other times, they’re carried shoulder high but I do think there’s only one seat up for grabs in Clare. I think Fianna Fáil will take two, Fine Gael will take one and for the final seat I think if the vote that went to Sinn Féin the last time, comes back to Sinn Féin, I see Sinn Fein doing very well”.

Flynn outlined, “I find it very hard to see any great coordination between the independents out there, not enough of a coordination to give them the vote”. He said, “You had just over 20,000 for Fine Gael. Rita, who’s in the West, geographically speaking, they don’t have the, what would you say, the critical mass so the last time, I think she got about 4,460 or around that count. I know that it took until the tenth count before Michael McNamara and Violet Anne (Wynne) were elected, And Timmy (Dooley) didn’t make it for some unknown reason so I just think that Fianna Fáil will learn from that, and I do think that they will return two seats. Joe Cooney is going to pull a big vote, they pulled in 3,000 votes in Shannon this time and there’s another 4,000 avaiable in the Killaloe area, that’s

7,000. I know some of them will go in the direction of his colleague, but I do believe that the big and ponderable here is who will take that seat and I’d say quite possibly Joe Cooney could take the Fine

connections but I do think this time around and I saw it happening in the local election with a colleague of mine, PJ (Ryan). You know, Fianna Fáil have learned their lesson. I think they’ll tighten up

the line is is two very different things but may get it without reaching the quota”.

Drennan believed work ethic and time in politics would stand to Dooley and Crowe and they would be

Gael seat.

“As for the last remaining seat, I think the tide has gone out on the Greens and I think also a lot of the votes that Roisin Garvey would have got the last time may have had their home in Fianna Fáil with her Fianna Fáil,

on that. I really think that if if what I’m saying holds up, if that was a Sinn Fein vote the last time and it was a large vote, if that goes to Sinn Fein, irrespective. Because at the time, the person that got that huge vote was an unknown. I know Donna, and she was co-opted on the sad passing of Mike McKee, she has done pretty well. She hasn’t ruffled feathers and she takes direction from the party very well and the script she gets from the party works very well and she doesn’t stray too far away from them so I think I think she has a very good chance of taking that fourth seat”.

Eugene pointed out that much of Garvey’s transfer in 2020 went to Joe Carey (FG), he said Eddie Punch (II) “will get a fair shot” of Michael McNamara’s (IND) and Sinn Féin are within “striking distance of a seat” and added, “within striking distance and getting it over

joined by Cooney. “I think Joe Cooney, for his work and for his he’s the man with the connectivity throughout the county through the GAA, through his own personal work, as a councillor, through his work ethic as a when he was Mayor of the Council, he’s all over the place”.

Leonora Carey (FG) still has a chance for the final seat “if she gets momentum behind her campaign. She has to show people that she really wants it, that she’s not walking in to just fill the family seat, and with this not a sense of entitlement. It was very tough what happened, Joe. Really, really tough, you can’t be sick in politics and I’m a person that has the height of respect for Joe Carey, because he got me to many a minister and he was great in subcommittees I was on, he was great for Claire, and he was great for the agenda I was on but that

doesn’t carry over, you can’t be sick in politics”.

Similarly, he felt Dr Tom Nolan (FG) had a chance given his thirty years as a consultant in Ennis on top of his GP practice in Kilrush. If not a second Fine Gael seat, Drennan predicted Sinn Féin “without reaching the quota” or “very tentative” for Fianna Fáil to win a third seat via Cllr McInerney if the West Clare block of votes comes to fruition.

How it pans out for Fine Gael is “complicated” according to Caimin. “The Carey machine is legendary and never write them off. They have some very skilled people,” he noted but felt the “existing popularity” and size of Cooney’s base will see him win a Fine Gael seat. When it comes to poll toppers, Flynn predicted Cllr Cooney who he likened to a magnet.

Caimin believed it was between Crowe and Cooney. “We really don’t know what kind of vote Joe will get. We don’t know how he’s going to do in the heart of Ennis, for example. We don’t know how he’s going to do in the housing estates. And equally, we don’t know how he’s going to do in Kilrush, as you say, or Lisdoonvarna or whatever. We know he will do very well in East Clare and that’s important and in South Clare where the population base is but will he do well in the housing estates and among under forties, I’m not so sure”.

Election Predictions:

Gerry Flynn:

Joe Cooney (FG)

Timmy Dooley (FF)

Cathal Crowe (FF)

Donna McGetitgan (SF)

Eugene Drennan: Cathal Crowe (FF)

Joe Cooney (FG)

Timmy Dooley (FF)

Leonora Carey (FG)

Caimin Jones: Cathal Crowe (FF)

Timmy Dooley (FF)

Joe Cooney (FG)

Donna McGettigan (SF)

The latest episode of the Electoral Chair with Eugene Drennan, Gerry Flynn, Caimin Jones

Christmas in Ennis programme sees pause of public realm & provision of free parking

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

EFFORTS to boost festive shopping trade in Ennis commence this Thursday with the annual switching on of the Christmas lights, a six-week suspension of work on the Ennis Public Realm Enhancement Scheme and the provision of free parking throughout the town.

Joined by All Ireland winning captain Tony Kelly, manager Brian Lohan and the Liam MacCarthy, Santa Claus will arrive at Abbey Street Carpark at 5.00pm on Thursday to power up the town’s Christmas lighting scheme, with live music provided by the Circus Ponies and Vocal Ponies.

Clare County Council has partnered with Ennis Chamber to promote the town as an attractive shopping destination by launching a comprehensive ‘Christmas In Ennis’ programme featuring Christmas artisan markets, choral and street trad music, children’s entertainment, street radio, a Christmas window display competition, and a Santa Train rolling through the town centre.

Christmas Artisan Markets will bring the sights, sounds and smells of the festive season to the Templegate Plaza

every Saturday from 30th November to 21st December from 10.30am to 3.00pm. Traders will be showcasing a variety of locally produced gifts and produce, which would make an ideal Christmas gift, or last-minute stocking filler.

The complimentary ‘Santa train’ will operate through the town on December 13th-15th and 20th-22nd.

On Sunday 1st December from 2.00pm to 4.30pm, the sound of music will fill the air throughout Ennis town centre as Comhaltas presents Christmas Street Trad, while St. Michaels Villas’ Choir will perform choral music in the Templegate Plaza on Sunday 8th December from 2.00pm to 3.30pm.

Glór will host two family-friendly Christmas events subsidised by Clare County Council with a ‘Frozen’ singalong taking place at 11.00am on 30th November and a fun-filled event called ‘A Little Christmas Time’ with face painting and crafts taking place on 14th December at 11.00am. A Juggler and Stilt walker will entertain Christmas shoppers on O’Connell St on 8th December, while ‘Living Statues’ will come to life on O’Connell Street on 15th De-

cember and 20th December.

Clare County Council is hosting a ‘Christmas window display competition’ to create a vibrant festive atmosphere and enhance community spirit in the town.

Children are reminded that they can post their letters to Santa Claus at Santa’s Post

Box at ‘The Height’, while the streets of Ennis will ring to the sound of Christmas music from 13th December when Christmas Street Radio returns until Christmas Eve featuring well-known local radio presenter Ger Sweeney broadcasting daily on street speakers throughout the town.

Meanwhile, all public donations received at the Ennis Lions Club Remembrance Tree in The Market will this year go toward Milford Hospice and the Children’s Ark Paediatric unit at UHL.

To boost retail activity in the town, there will be free park-

ing for shoppers from 2.00pm at all public carparks (excluding on-street parking) from tomorrow (28th November) to 1st January inclusive. Free parking will be provided from tomorrow from 5.00pm to 8pm each day at Áras Contae an Chláir, The Courthouse and Waterpark Campus Drumbiggle.

All day free parking will be provided at Áras Contae an Chláir on 30th November and 1st December, and 7-8th, 1415th and 21st-22nd December and on the same days along with Christmas Eve at Waterpark Campus Drumbiggle. There will be no charge for parking in Council car parks throughout the town from 2.00pm between Thursday 28th November and Wednesday 1st January 2025 inclusive. On-street parking will operate as normal.

The local authority has confirmed that work on the Ennis Public Realm Enhancement Scheme will be suspended from this evening until 6th January to facilitate Christmas and New Year’s shopping trade throughout the town.

Large crowds are expected in Ennis town centre on 28th November for the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights Photo by Eamon Ward

CLAN to launch new website

CLAN will launch its new website coinciding with the International 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence.

In 1997, CLAN was set up following a Government Working Group that was established to review violence against women. CLAN is one of the few Local Area Networks still in existence. The voluntary group is comprised of 17 County Clare agencies and the group’s focus is to raise awareness around domestic abuse.

On Friday December 6th from 10am to 1pm, CLAN is

hosting an event at Buttermarket House, Drumbiggle. The event is being hosted in conjunction with the International 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence. This year, CLAN is launching a unique domestic abuse website for practitioners in County Clare.

This website will provide each practitioner in Clare with the information they need to respond to, and refer, persons that they believe are living with or trying to leave a domestic abuse situation.

Marcella Leonard will be the guest speaker for the event. She has 30 years’ experience in child and public protection

and psychosexual therapy. Her expertise is recognised nationally and internationally, and her opinion sought both at strategic and operational levels in many organisations and countries. She has recently held the Chair of the Northern Ireland Association of Social Workers and is a Director of the British Association of Social Workers.

Marcella is a highly-regarded trainer in assessing and managing sexual and violent risk to children

Bunratty to host Ireland’s largest Christmas parade

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Santa Claus and members of the All-Ireland winning Clare hurling team will be joined over 350 elves, Christmas characters and musicians in Bunratty village this Thursday night at 6.00pm for Ireland’s largest Christmas parade.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, supported by the local business community and Clare County Council, is hosting the inaugural parade which will wind its way through the village to the courtyard of Bunratty Castle where the annual switching on of the Folk Park’s Christmas lights will take place.

Following the parade, Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will present a donation to this year’s nominated charity, Down Syndrome Clare.

The parade marks the beginning of ‘Christmas at Bunratty 2024’ with 35,000 people expected through the gates of the popular 26-acre visitor attraction during the festivities.

Santa Claus will be making a welcome return to his grotto on the Village Street on Friday, 29th November. Visitors will have full access to Bunratty Folk Park Trail of Lights Experience and can enjoy puppet and magic shows and traditional Christmas tales with Bunratty’s resident Seanchaí, drop into the festive themed shops, meet and greet in the Ice Queen’s Cottage, and take a ride on the Polar Express. The ‘Breakfast with Santa’ event and Christmas-themed castle banquets also return for 2024.

The Bunratty Christmas Parade commences from JP Clarke’s at 6.00pm on Thursday. The village main street will be closed to vehicular traffic for the duration of the parade, while public parking will be available throughout the village and at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park in advance.

All businesses in Bunratty will remain open before, during and after the parade. Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will be closed to the public after

with

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Collins Jewellers celebrate new era with Christmas sale

Turn Black Friday green with Flynn Hotels

COLLINS Jewellers, the family-owned business at the heart of Ennis, is celebrating 52 years of serving the local community with a change in its business model.

IT’S the season to support local, stay sus tainable, and take advantage of savings when it comes to your next getaway break!

The Flynn Hotel Collection of award winning, independent, family-owned hotels has announced their 2024 Green Friday Sale, which runs until Monday, December 2nd!

As the New Year approaches the iconic jewellers are shifting their focus to fine jewellery while continuing to offer their renowned, highly regarded repair service.

Tadg Collins, Managing Director, confirms that the decision to evolve the business is part of their ongoing effort to meet changing customer needs while maintaining the high standards of quality and personal care that have made Collins’ Jewellers a beloved institution in Ennis.

Green Friday at the Flynn Hotel Collection means exceptional value with savings of 20% on bed and breakfast rates in their landmark properties in Kilkenny, Dungarvan and Ennis, in addition to the sale discount, savvy guests booking this sale period will be further rewarded with gifted extras on arrival in the form of local green experiences. These welcome have been thoughtfully selected by individual hotel property to showcase

“We’re changing our model and our offerings. We are evolving,” Tadg explains. We’re concentrating on jewellery, our exquisite diamond rings and our repair service. Our commitment to quality and customer care remains the same as it has always been.”

The upcoming Christmas sale, starting on Monday, December 2, will kick off this exciting new chapter for Collins’ Jewellers with all stock being discounted by 50%. The family are eager to offer exceptional value to their customers.

“We’ve been in business for over 50 years and as times change so do we. “Tadg said. When my parents first started, we had a small jewellers shop, but over time it ex-

lThe Old Ground Hotel

of parkland with a nature walk, wildlife farm & fairy trail, adventure playground and ‘Juras sic Newpark’ dinosaur attraction and newly added features such as the Dino Den theatre and ‘Jurassic Bounce’ covered inflatable adventure park all making it ideal for families! Or enjoy a chilled getaway on the adult only floor, with hot tubs and a private breakfast terrace!! Their on-site leisure centre, outdoor infinity pool and relaxing spa mean you do need to leave the hotel unless you really want to! Snapping up a 20% discount on a stay at Newpark is a great incentive to explore the historic and cultural attractions, shop or so cialise in the Marble cit

panded. For many years, we had a significant business in trophies, medals, Waterford Crystal and an Optician’s.”

Tadg’s sister Jan, who has worked alongside her brother in the business for decades, shared that the changes are also influenced by the need for a better work-life balance.

“Businesses must adapt, especially to meet changing lifestyles,”

Jan said. “We’re upgrading to focus more on bespoke jewellery, but the repair side of our business will always be a core part of what we do. We’ve been in this business for so long. Our Dad, Christy and our Mam Loyola are still working in

the business every day.”

Jan emphasised the family’s commitment to providing a full range of repair services including ring remodelling, watch repairs, and even transforming old jewellery into something new. “Whatever needs to be repaired or restyled, we’ll take care of it. We custom-make all engagement and wedding rings, and if someone wants to turn old earrings into a pendant, we can do that too. Everything is done right here in our workshop.”

For Collins’ Jewellers the personal connection with customers is key. Tadg remembered a customer who had three rings belong-

Meanwhile at Ennis manor house hotel, The Old Ground, is offering guests a JJ Correy whiskey paired with uamgraney chocolates. JJ Correy Whiskey is sourced from the McGuane family farm in County Clare where they have resurrected the lost art of whiskey bonding, while Tuamgraney chocolates are passionately crafted by chocolatiers on the banks of Lough Derg. The Old Ground is the highest rated hotel in Ennis offering guests a luxury stay, unrivalled culinary experiences and a true Irish welcome, all in a central location in the town. With an unrivalled collection of art and sculpture and period charm throughout, this is definitely a hotel for those who love a culture rich and authentic stay. Superbly positioned on the doorstep of The Burren, Bunratty, Cliffs of Moher and many more Wild Atlantic Way highlights the Old Ground is one of the best places from which to experience the natural wonders of County Clare.

The Park Hotel in the harbour town of Dungarvan, Co. Waterford is a bucket list stay for anyone wishing to explore the South East and Copper Coast.

The Park Hotel is set to welcome guests with three craft beers from the renowned Dungarvan brewing company, an ideal way to refresh after a trek on the nearby Dungarvan to Waterford greenway.

Saturday before Christmas.” He explained, “10 years ago, people would still be knocking on the door after 6pm for the last minute emergency gifts (these were mostly men, of course!)”

Dungarvan is an ideal staging point for coastal drives, scenic beaches, historic points of interest and sporting endeavours such as cycling, golf, fishing, and angling, not to mention shopping and dining in Dungarvan

ing to her mother and requested them to be combined into one modern, stylish piece of jewellery. Collins’ offered her several design options and succeeded in creating a bespoke piece that exceeded her expectations. “We love working on items that are so meaningful to our customers. There’s always a lot of sentiment attached to such beloved family heirlooms and we feel privileged that people trust us to help them transform those pieces into something they can cherish for years to come.”

The business has changed over the years, and so too have the shopping habits of customers. Tadg noted that while Christmas Eve used to be the busiest day of the year, people are now more organised and tend to shop earlier. “The busiest day is now the

Jan, who has spent every Christmas Eve at the shop since she was 11 fondly recalled the tradition. “I can still remember what I wore the first Christmas Eve I worked here. Since then, every Christmas Eve has been special spending it in the shop with Mam, Dad, Tadg and our wonderful team, including Christine who has been with us for 51 years, Maureen for 40 years, Edel 10 years, and all our valued past staff members.”

Breaks booked during the Green Friday sale period (18th November to 2nd December) can be taken from 18th November until end of April inclusive so it’s a great opportunity to book a Winter, Christmas, New Year or Spring break. So, whether you’re looking for a city break, a family getaway, a spa break, self-catering, or an escape to the Wild West, there ’s something for everyone at the Flynn Hotel Collection Green Friday Sale.

As Collins’ Jewellers prepares for their upcoming sale the family is excited about the future and is confident that the changes will help the business thrive for many more years to come.

The sale will begin at 10am on Monday December 2nd and promises to be a great opportunity for our customers to find some unique gifts at fantastic value.

While Collins’ Jewellers is embracing a new business model, the family’s commitment to their customers and their rich history in the community will always remain at the heart of what they do.

Commenting on the sale, one of the owners of the Flynn Hotel Collection Allen Flynn said “Sustainable hospitality is at the heart of everything we do, and we pride ourselves on offering a great experience, creative local food and thoughtful surprises for guests. We are 100% Irish with a genuine and passionate commitment for outstanding employee care, sustainable growth, and protection for the lo-cal environment and community” Terms and Conditions: Selected dates, subject to availability. No date changes once the sale is over. Bookable from Monday 18th November to Monday 2nd December. Availability from 18th November until 30th April inclusive. Each hotel offers its own unique local green experience. To book see flynnhotels.com.

lNEW DAWN: The team at Collins Jewellers (pictured right)

Moroney claims bullying ongoing in FF & Ind. Ireland have lack of democratic process

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A GENERAL ELECTION candidate has claimed he was subject to bullying while a member of Fianna Fáil and said democratic processes are lacking in Independent Ireland.

Broadford native Matthew Moroney (IND) resigned as a member of Fianna Fáil in March of this year after he was not selected to contest the local elections following an appeal. In June, he ran as a candidate for Independent Ireland where he was the nearest challenger to the five elected councillors in the Killaloe Municipal District, the same five have been returned for three elections in a row.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Matthew admitted running for Independent Ireland in the General Election was never on the cards. “It wasn’t an option, for the simple reason and I have to be honest about this, there was no democratic process in electing or selecting the candidate in the Independent

Ireland. I joined Independent Ireland because it was new, it started new, I’ve great time for Michael Fitzmaurice the way he comes at things with a simplified approach, he is very clear of what he wants to get out here and I liked that.

“I suppose after the local elections, there hadn’t been much contact from anybody in Independent Ireland, we were then told they had their candidate picked and that was it, they said the candidate they picked didn’t want any other candidate running with them, whether you wanted to go with them or not you didn’t get an option, I had seen that kind of things in Fianna Fáil, that is why I left Fianna Fáil, when I ran for convention that time, I saw a lot of things that happen inwardly in parties and they’re not nice and people suffer, and people’s mental health suffers all the things like this. I also felt on the other side of it, Independent Ireland don’t offer any funding for us, they’re not established long enough so I felt I was better

selling my own brand with my own money than selling someone else’ brand with my own money”.

He said his main differences with Independent Ireland are regarding their selection processes. “There was no democracy for the selection process, and that’s the only issue that I had. It didn’t matter that I wasn’t picked for it, that wasn’t the issue. It was the way it was done was the issue for me”.

Moroney stressed that there is no bad blood between him and Eddie Punch (II). “Eddie is a fierce nice guy, I’ve spoken to him a few times since, you know, and there’s no bad blood whatsoever, and I wish Eddie the best of luck. I hope he is one of the candidates that gets there”.

Reflecting on his time in Fianna Fáil, Matthew said lack of communication was another issue. “They left me a long time right after the convention, which was fast tracked to June, they left me a long time, until a few days before Christmas

before they actually gave me an answer. They were in my eyes, I won’t say not taking it serious enough but they were kicking the can down the road. I had my mind made up at that stage that I was gone but I still had to wait for the deciding answer because I did go for an appeal, and I had to wait for the results of the appeal one way or the other, if they turned around and said ‘Matt we’re still going to run you’ I still would have refused because I had my mind made up, I had seen some things in the party, I saw some things against female members on the ground and I was not happy with that, I think we all know what it is and I won’t name names but I couldn’t stand for it”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he said he both saw and heard what happened. Subsequent to this, “I sent various emails to party headquarters, I sent emails to a politician up the country who was involved in headquarters but there was nothing done about it”.

He is critical of Fianna Fáil at both a local and national level. “I have to be honest here. Fianna Fáil in Clare including its councillors and TDs were aware of the situation and it hasn’t been resolved to date, it involves myself and other people, you get a generic email reply that they will look into it but that is it”.

Moroney added, “I won’t say threats, a certain amount of bullying which in my view in this day and age is not acceptable, it definitely should not be acceptable in a party and to someone who put their name forward or who is on the ground doing voluntary work for them. There was a bit of everything as well, that it’s in the past, and Fianna Fáil is in the past to me, I’m looking forward, I suppose if your past keeps being brought in front of you, you can never go forward and this is what I want. I want to go forward, do the best I can. And if I don’t get it done, I have no problem standing aside and saying I failed and let the next

person come in and let them have a go. If I can’t deliver on a couple of key areas for the county, then I wil stand back and say I have failed and the best of luck to the next person, I’ll row in behind them to help them too, I can’t give any more security than that”.

Blossoms on the Go has opened its Christmas

WELL hope ye are all well and that planning is in full swing as we are now well and truly into winter.

This week at Blossoms on the Go Garden Centre we have been putting out bird food and keeping the water de-iced so they can have somehting to drink

I was asked why do we I do it? So, I thought it’s a nice to do but I did dig deeper and found out. Feeding birds can offer several ecological, environmental and personal benefits.

Supporting the bird populations by supplemental feeding provides birds with a reliable food source. Conservation and species protection feeders can support biodiversity by attracting a variety of bird species. Pest

control birds feed on insects, such as aphids, caterpillars by attracting them to the garden they are naturally reduce pest population. Many birds contribute to seed dispersal supporting plant growth and the ecosystem health. Mental heath benefits watching birds at a feeder has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Now that’s food for thought. So this week and the over next few weeks are going to busy we have. Christmas in full swing here in Blossoms. Our Christmas trees have arrived and they are just gorgeous. We have a size to suit all rooms and even the outdoor areas, if you are doing up the lawn.

Noble Fir and Nordman fir

are the two types of trees we stock. Thanks to these trees I have a natural scent of pine off me for December and it’s fabulous.

It’s not just Christmas trees that keep us busy this time of year, we make all our own wreath and decorate so between cutting up bits to suitable size to help my mam prune her holly tree and lovely bay laurel tree I have been kept very busy this winter. But I love creating wreaths using lots of type of greenery they all come out stunning. The most popular ones are the holly ones and if I can get red berry, they are mostly done naturally with pinecones and orange slice and cinnamon sticks.

The selection is so varied

an, there are too many to mention. So if your like me and starting to think about putting up the tree and the décor why not call in and see what we can add to your lovely Christmas home this year.

We are holding our wreath and table arrangements over the next week keep an eye on our Facebook page for more details

lCHRISTMAS SEASON: Blossoms on the Go Christmas

Shop

lMatthew Moroney (IND)

Photo by: John Mangan

Can Clare Help Return a Gender-Balanced Dáil?

VOTERS in the constituency of Clare have a huge opportunity this Friday November 29 to help create a better gender-balance in Dáil Éireann.

A record number of 9 women out of 20 candidates are running in the 4-seater con stituency, but it’s not the first time that the county has blazed a trail. Clare was the first constituency in the country to return two

votemorewomen.ie and consider voting for them”, concluded Sheehan

18 year old charged with machete assault ‘sleeping on mattress’ while on remand at Limerick prisonalleged victim ‘3mm from death’ according to judge

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

An 18-year old charged in connection with an alleged ‘random’ broad daylight machete attack on a busy Ennis street last week is sleeping on a mattress on a floor at Limerick prison while on remand, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court today, Trevor Quinn (18) of Hermitage, Ennis was appearing via video link from Limerick prison where he is charged in connection with the alleged machete attack on Shane Tuohy at Ennis’s Mill Rd at 3.30pm on Wednesday, November 20th.

In court today, solicitor for Mr Quinn, Daragh Hassett said that not only has Mr Quinn not received any medical attention while at Limerick prison as recommended by Judge Gabbett “but he is sleeping on a mattress on the floor”.

Mr Hassett said that Mr Quinn has a better chance of seeing a doctor in the prison “if he has his own cell”.

In the incident, the machete was allegedly thrown into the River Fergus after the alleged assault and Judge Gabbett said today that ”I see the weapon was found”.

Sgt John Burke told Judge Gabbett that DPP directions are not yet received and asked for a further two week remand in custody for Mr Quinn to December 11th to Ennis District Court.

In court last week, Judge Gabbett refused bail to Mr Quinn after viewing photos of the alleged machete injuries to Mr Tuohy’s neck

and ear.

Judge Alec Gabbett said that Mr Tuohy was ‘3mm from death’.

Judge Gabbett said that Mr Tuohy’s artery was visible from the neck wound in the photos provided by Gardai.

During a contested bail hearing last week, Judge Gabbett said that “this young man’s ear was nearly sliced off. It is but for the grace of God that this man is alive.”

Looking at the photos, Judge Gabbett said: “Death was not far off. One more millimetre and that artery was severed and you would have a minute at best. That is what really concerns me.”

Judge Gabbett said that the photos of the alleged injuries suffered show that they “were made with an extremely sharp implement with almost surgical precision”.

Mr Quinn is facing four separate charges and they are the assault causing harm of Shane Tuohy, a charge of violent disorder on Ennis’s Mill Rd and charges concerning the use of a machete and the possession of a carpet knife.

Garda Alison White said that Mr Quinn has no previous convictions and has not been before the courts before.

Judge Gabbett said that Mr Quinn “is just a hair’s breadth over 18 and he is charged with extraordinary serious offences”.

Judge Gabbett remanded Mr Quinn further in custody to Limerick prison to appear via video link at Ennis District Court for December 11th and recommended that he receive medical attention.

l 9 WOMEN: (left to right) Hillay Tongue (SD), Amada Major (Ind),Caitríona Ní Chatháin (p, Donna McGettigan (SF), Rosin Garvey (GP), Rita McInerney (FF), Violet-Anne Wyne(Ind), Leonora Carey (FG), June Dillon (Aontu)

lTrevor Quinn

Festive finds at Holly’s

Style, Beauty and Lifestlye

Rachel Porter @rachels_day_

THIS Christmas, skip the hustle and bustle of the city and let Hollys help you find the perfect gifts for everyone on your list.

Here are some amazing festive finds that are sure to make your loved ones smile!

Treat someone special to the Rituals The Ritual of Jing Gift Set (€56), and give the gift of relaxation and restful nights.

With a luxurious foaming shower gel, body cream, body scrub, and a scented candle, this set is all about unwinding and indulging. For someone who loves delicate floral scents, the Rituals The Ritual of Sakura 3 Bestsellers

(€27.50) is a thoughtful choice. Infused with cherry blossom and rice milk, this set pampers the senses and leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed. It includes The Ritual of Sakura Shower Gel, Body Scrub, andBody Cream, all elegantly presented in a reusable gift box. Know someone passionate about skincare? The Clarins Double Serum Iconic Collection (€145) is theultimate treat. It includes the legendary Double Serum to keep skin youthful, the Double Serum Eye to brighten and lift the eye area, and the

Beauty Flash Balm to instantly refresh tired skin. The Wonder Perfect 4D Mascara adds drama to lashes, while the Lip Oil delivers irresistible shine. All these luxurious products come tucked into a gorgeous case that’s as stunning as the products inside.

Pamper a loved one with the L’Occitane Smooth & Firm Almond Collection (€56). This Mediterranean almond-infused collection includes the Almond Delicious Hands Cream for soft, nourished hands, the Almond Milk Veil to moisturize and smooth skin with a hint of shimmer, and the Almond Shower Oil, which transforms into a milky lather and leaves behind a warm almond- vanilla scent they’ll love! If hydration is what they need, the Vichy Mineral 89 Hydration Icons (€29.50) is just the thing. This gift set includes the Mineral 89 Booster Serum for glowing,

Clare man finds out about late farmer brother’s funeral arrangements on local radio

Work to commence on €1.2m Ballycuggaran Water Sports Facility in East Clare

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council

keep this man at bay”.

signed a contract with PS Carmody Contractors yesterday to begin the construction on the €1.2 million Ballycuggaran Water Sports Facility on the shores of Lough Derg.

A MAN has told a court that finding out about his late brother’s funeral arrangements on his local radio station’s obituaries ‘put the hat on it altogether’.

At the Family Law Court in Ennis, the Clare man was opposing a Domestic Violence Safety Order application by his elderly mother and denied he had words with her over the family plan to bury his late brother in the grave plot already occupied by his late father.

The son said that he received a solicitor’s ‘cease and desist’ on behalf of his mother in September which was hand-delivered by a sibling.

The man said that he used to call to his mother four or five times a week for a cup of tea and a chat in the evening.

The letter requested the man not to attend his mother’s farmhouse in future.

He said, “I did not shout at her and I did not put her in fear. I have more respect for her than that”.

The man said, “I have no animosity towards my mother high up nor low down and never will”.

Judge Gabbett said that the woman’s evidence isn’t sufficient for a Safety Order but said that the court would be open to the son

Developed by Fáilte Ireland in partnership with Clare County Council, the new water sports facility will provide hot showers, toilet facilities, accessible toilet, changing areas, secure storage, induction spaces, equipment washdown and orientation points.

The man agreed with Mr Connolly that there was a sea-change in the attitude towards him from other family members following the death of his younger brother.

The man’s brother who operated the family farm died intestate and the court heard that the ownership of the farm and the farmhouse reverted to the mother on his death.

Judge Alec Gabbett said, “That is all in play here - that is the issue”. The mother told the court as part of her Safety Order application that she is “very frightened” of her adult son.

Accessibility and sustainability will be key focus points for the project, ensuring full wheelchair access and the installation of solar photovoltaic panels.

Solicitor, Ronan Connolly for the man opposing the Safety Order application asked the man is his mother’s sudden perceived fear of him due to him being the only son left and there is a farm and he is now being pushed out?

The also replied ‘yes’ when asked by Mr Connolly was there a colluded attempt to exclude him and that it went beyond his mother.

The man said that he was surprised that his brother was going to be buried with his father and he said that he has never shown any aggression towards his mother.

vast experience in managing tourism-based facilities, Clare County Council is delighted to be working in close partnership with Fáilte Ireland to deliver this new facility. This investment will not only strengthen our appeal as a county with strong outdoor water-based activities and facilities, it will also create new opportunities for activity operators that will benefit local jobs and businesses. I want to acknowledge the funding support of over €1.2 million provided by Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media.”

August 2025.”

given a sworn undertaking not to go near his mother or the farmhouse.

Judge Gabbett told the son “don’t talk about anything to do with the farm” and to stay away from the farmhouse. Judge Gabbett told the mother, “You are safe because the undertaking has been given and your son has promised the court you he won’t put you in fear.”

Fiona Monaghan, Head of Product Development for Activities in Fáilte Ireland commented, “Fáilte Ireland is committed to the sustainable development of tourism and enhancing the visitor experience, particularly in regional areas. Today marks the beginning of the journey in developing a fantastic new tourism amenity that will help strengthen the outdoor tourism offering in County Clare.

Nestled at the foot of the rolling hills of East Clare on the western shores of Lough Derg, Ballycuggaran is one of the eight international Blue Flag beaches in Clare and has become increasingly popular in recent years as a location for other water-based activ-

He said that some of the answers he got to fairly legitimate questions about where his brother was going to be buried “were provocative and aggressive” from one of his siblings.

ities such as kayaking, paddle-boarding and sailing.

The man replied, “I certainly feel that”. Mr Connolly said that there is no basis whatsoever for the Safety Order application. He said, “It is an extraordinary application”.

Judge Gabbett said that “there does seem to me that there is something afoot here to

Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council, said, “The provision of all-weather storage for users, showering and chang-

He said, “To put the hat on it altogether, I found out about the arrangements for my brother’s funeral on local radio on the obituaries - that was the level of communication that went on at that time”.

The man said that he asked his mother about the burial arrangements around one week after the burial.

ing facilities will consolidate Ballycuggaran’s reputation as a popular destination for water-based activities. This investment will also complement overall tourism development along the Lough

Derg Blueway and in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, as well as deliver benefits to visitors and the local community alike.”

Chief Executive of Clare County Council Pat Dowling, said, “Drawing on our

Aldo Andreucetti, Clerk of Works at Clare County Council and Project Manager explained, “An Bord Pleanála granted approval for the development in 2023 following an application by Clare County Council, which will own and operate the facility. Work on the development will commence in the coming weeks, with construction and fit-out of the new facility scheduled for completion by

“Lough Derg and Ballycuggaran are key assets in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, with so much potential to attract both international and domestic visitors. We look forward to working with Clare County Council to develop this best-in-class water sports facility that will benefit both visitors and the local community, while helping extend the outdoor activity season in the area.”

This project is part of Fáilte Ireland’s Platforms for Growth Scheme, funded under the Government’s Project

Big crowd attends Clare Echo election debate

lFAMILY FUED: Family Law Court in Ennis

l Ballycuggaran is to welcome a €1.2m water sports facility (pictured below right)

l Moderator Páraic McMahon joined by the 17 candidates who attended The Clare Echo Electoral Chair Live debate at Hotel Woodstock last Thursday; (right) Violet-Anne Wynne; (top right) an audience question comes from Eugene Drennan and (below right) Joe Cooney speaks as Timmy Dooley, Róisín Garvey and Michael Loughrey watch on. For full reaction to the event and more election coverage, got to p31-39 Photos by John Mangan

Thought for the week: Be Thankful

Spreading the word of positivity

I am writing this thought from Africa where I am visiting programmes conducted by the organisation I work for.

I agree with Robert Louis Stevenson, when he wrote, “The person who forgets to be thankful has fallen asleep in life”. Unfortunately, because the beauties of life are so abundant, sometimes we take them for granted.

Gratitude is more than just a feeling, gratitude is actually a practice: one we can cultivate and even develop, which will transform our experience of ourselves, our lives, and our world.

I have a memory of my teacher Mrs. Carroll in first year asking us to write a short essay describing the things in our lives for which we were thankful. I sat for the longest time just staring at that piece of paper. I couldn’t think of a thing for which I was thankful. I was surrounded by gifts, but I didn’t recognize them as gifts, and so I couldn’t begin to express my gratitude for them. I naively assumed that everyone had food and clothing, a

loving family and a comfortable home. I was unaware of how privileged I was to enjoy these things on a daily basis, and simply took them for granted.

Albert Einstein once said:

“There are only two ways to live your life, one is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as if everything is.” Perhaps one of the greatest geniuses of the previous century, Einstein expressed so eloquently a life philosophy predicated upon gratitude and thankfulness.

Over the past few months or so I have been giving a lot of thought about personally needing to develop a deeper gratitude for those things which I am truly thankful for especially after spending weeks in Africa at the moment helping out people and families as they try to flee the wars and the aftermath of some severe weather and climate shocks that is there at the moment.

Gratitude shifts your focus from what your life lacks to the abundance that is already present. Giving thanks makes people happier and more resilient, it strengthens relationships, it improves health, and it reduces stress.

Thought for the week

As you’re thought for the

week, be thankful for what you have.

Be thankful that you don’t already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don’t know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn. Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow. Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement. Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character. Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons. Be thankful when you’re tired and weary, because it means you’ve made a difference. It’s easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks. Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive. Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they too can become your blessings. As I continue my life journey I will try to be grateful for family, friends, colleagues and everything in my life every day, since you are generous all year to me, like you are every year. Amen.

Pop-Up Gaeltacht in Kilrush/ Preab-Ghaeltacht i gCill Rois

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

BÍONN Preab-Ghaeltacht ar siúl i mBuggles Bar i gCill Rois chuile oíche Dé Céadaoin ag 8pm. Bígí ann le bhur gcuid Gaeilge a chleachtadh le daoine eile. Comhrá, craic, agus spraoi!

Join other Irish speakers of all levels at Buggles Bar, Kilrush, every Wednesday evening at 8pm for a Popup Gaeltacht! Step into another universe as you journey through this fun event in the magical language that belongs to us all!

lFun/Spraoi ag an Pop-Up Gaelteacht i Buggles Bar, CillRois, Dé Céadaoin, 8pm

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com

Imeachtaí/Events:

nLUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach nClare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM nCILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm nINIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@ outlook.com nLUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389. nAN SCAIRBH – Lón i nGaeilge, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé An Gáirdín, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

Traditional christmas pudding

INGREDIENTS

n50g Blanched Almonds

n3 large Bramley cooking apples

n1 whole nutmeg

n1kg raisins

n140g plain flour

n100g soft fresh white breadcrumbs

n100g light brown sugar

n3 large eggs

nOne shot of brandy, plus extra to light the pudding

n250g butter

For the brandy and ginger

butter

n175g unsalted butter softened grated zest of an orange

n5 tbsp icing sugar

nOne shot of brandy

n2 pieces of stem ginger finely

nchopped

Method

Step 1: Get everything for the pudding prepared. Chop the almonds coarsely. Peel, core and

chop the cooking apples. (You can chop the almonds and apples in a food processor). Grate three quarters of the nutmeg

Step 2: Mix the almonds, apples, nutmeg, raisins, flour, breadcrumbs, light brown sugar, eggs and one shot of brandy in a large bowl

Step 3: Grate a quarter of the butter into the bowl, then stir everything together. Repeat until all the butter is grated, then stir for 3-4 mins – the mixture is ready when it subsides slightly after each stir

Step 4: Generously butter two 1.2 litre bowls and put a circle of baking parchment in the bottom of each. Pack in the pudding mixture. Cover with a double layer of baking parchment, pleating it to allow for expansion, then tie with string (keep the paper in place with a rubber band while tying). Trim off any excess paper.

Step 5: Now stand each bowl on a large sheet of foil and bring the edges up over the top, then put another sheet of foil over the top and bring it down underneath to make a double package (this makes the puddings watertight).

Step 6: Boil or oven steam the puddings for 8 hrs, topping up with water as necessary. Remove from the pans and leave to cool overnight.

Step 7: To make the brandy butter, cream the butter with the orange zest and icing sugar. Gradually beat in the brandy and chopped stem ginger. Put in a small bowl and put in the fridge to set.

Step 8: On Christmas Day, boil or oven steam for 1 hr. Unwrap and turn out. To flame, warm one shot of brandy in a small pan, pour it over the pudding and set light to it.

Enjoy. Happy Christmas Pudding.

RONAN SCULLY

Hollistic methods for proactive maintenance; keep your body healthy as you age

AS WE AGE, both men and women encounter unique health challenges, but the good news is that many of these can be harmoniously managed through a holistic approach that includes a balance of exercise, therapies, nutrition, and mindful self-care.

Health Issues for Women:

1. Osteoporosis and Bone Health

l Exercises and Fresh Air Activities:

-Weight-bearing activities (walking, jogging, and dancing) help stimulate bone growth.

-Strength training (weights or resistance bands) improves bone density.

-Balance exercises reduce fall risk.

l Supplements:

-Calcium supports bone health.

-Vitamin D enhances calcium absorption.

-Magnesium supports bone strength and muscle function and up to 800 other functions in the body!

2. Hormonal Imbalances

l Exercises:

-Yoga and Pilates reduce stress, improve flexibility, and promote relaxation.

-Cardio exercises (swimming, cycling, walking) boost mood and energy.

-Strength training helps balance hormones and reduce PMS/menopause symptoms.

l Supplements:

-Vitamin B6/Agnus Castus helps regulate mood and alleviate PMS symptoms.

-Evening Primrose/ Hemp Oil helps manage menstrual discomfort.

-Black Cohosh/Sage can reduce hot flashes and night sweats.

-Magnesium Bisglycinate promotes better sleep quality.

3. Weight Gain and Slowing Metabolism

l Exercises:

-Strength training builds lean muscle, boosting metabolism.

-High-intensity interval training (HIIT) helps burn fat efficiently.

-Walking regularly and lowering cortisol levels can aid in weight

management and improve metabolism.

l Supplements:

-Green Tea Extract boosts metabolism and supports fat loss.

-Ashwaghanda, Holy Basil & L-Theanine lower cortisol & stress levels.

-Probiotics help with digestion and metabolism.

-Omega-3 Fatty Acids support metabolism and reduce inflammation.

Health Issues for Men:

1.Muscle Loss

l Exercises:

-Strength training (weights or bodyweight exercises like squats, push-ups) helps maintain muscle mass.

-Resistance band exercises improve strength without heavy weights.

-Core workouts (planks, leg raises) enhance posture and stability.

l Supplements:

-Whey Protein supports muscle repair and growth.

-Creatine enhances muscle strength and performance.

-Vitamin D supports muscle

Scariff man achieves Gold Gaisce award through inclusion pathway

President Michael D Higgins awards 73 young people Gaisce Gold Award Medals recognising their remarkable contribution to communities all across Ireland.

Among those honoured on the night was Enda Brien of Scariff who received the Gaisce Gold Award at a ceremony in Áras an Uachtaráin. Enda was one of 16 award recipients who came through access and inclusion pathways.

This year’s participants mastered a wide range of skills, activities and projects, from learning Irish Sign Language and Chinese, to hiking some of Ireland’s most challenging peaks, volunteering in youth and community work, learning a musical instrument and developing their leadership skills. Gaisce’s vision is an Ireland where every young person, no matter their circumstances, has the

opportunity to participate in the President’s Award. Gaisce consistently works to achieve this vision, delivering key initiatives to ensure equality of access and opportunity.

Speaking prior to the Awards today, President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins said:

“Today we honour the hard work, perseverance and commitment of our Gaisce Gold recipients. This moment represents the pinnacle of a journey on which you have embarked with courage, dedication, and vision, a journey that has shaped you, deepened your understanding of community, a testament to your determination and the personal growth that you have each achieved. In earning the Gold Award, each of you has undertaken a unique journey of personal and social development, volunteered your time, energy and talent to help others, to be a light for those in need. In doing so, you have become agents of change, shaping a brighter and more inclusive world.”

function and bone health.

2.Prostate Health

l Exercises:

-Pelvic floor exercises improve bladder control and prostate health.

-Aerobic exercise improves circulation, benefiting prostate health.

l Supplements:

-Saw Palmetto supports prostate health and reduces BPH symptoms.

-Zinc is essential for maintaining prostate function.

-Vitamin E supports prostate health as an antioxidant.

3.Cardiovascular Health

l Exercises:

-Cardiovascular exercises walking, cycling and running improve heart health.

-Strength training helps lower body fat, reducing heart disease risk.

-HIIT improves heart function and metabolic rate.

l Supplements:

-Omega-3 Fatty Acids reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

-Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supports heart function and reduces oxidative stress.

-Garlic, Olive Leaf & Beetroot Juice may help lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

Often, we only seek complimentary therapies when we are in discomfort. But the key to a healthier life isn’t waiting for problems to arise, it’s about proactive maintenance. Bio-energy, Craniosacral therapy, and Reflexology are just some of the essential supporting elements to your wellness routine that can help you to stay balanced, manage stress, and prevent potential health issues before they even start.

We are very fortunate in Co Clare to have many wonderful health care warriors facilitating these health transformations including Susan McDermott Flynn (Seabrook Clinic) Michael O Doherty (Bio-energy) Joan Doherty Keogh, Maureen Grogan Therapies, Mary O Halloran, Noel Casey and Lorraine at Gleninareflexology to name but a few. You will be amazed at the difference they can make to your life.

Charity Tractor Run in aid of Raheen Community Hospital

RAHEENS will host a charity Tractor Run on Friday in aid of Raheen Community Hospital.

Located in Tuamgraney, Co Clare, is a reputable nursing home providing exceptional care to the elderly members in our community. The facility ensures a safe and comfortable environment for its residents which is a home away from home. The dedicated staff members are committed to meeting the unique needs of the residents, providing assistance with daily activities, medications management, and round-the-clock support.

Raheen Community Hospital has supported family members and relatives to a vast number of families in its locality.

The Tractor run will take place on Friday December 27. Registration for vehiles will start at 11am at the cobblers rest and will cost €20 per vehicle. The convery is expected to set off by 12:30.

There will also be a raffle on the day with a great selection onf prizes to be won.

The community of Raheen ran a similar event last year and it was a great success with over 160 registered vehicles and over 25 large spot prizes all donated by friend’s, families and local businesses. The event raised over 8500 euros for the community hospital and they hope that this years Tractor Run will be an even bigger success.

l READY

lGOLD: Enda Brien recieveing gold Gaisce award from President Michael. D. Higgins

Danceperados of Ireland returns to Glór

ALL roads lead to Glór on the weekend of December 7/8 as international touring dance show production “Danceperados of Ireland” makes its return to Glór for the first time in five years.

Choreographed by Ennis man and two time World Champion Michael Donnellan, the show features some of the best dancers and musicians in Ireland. With Newmarket man Eimhin Liddy responsible for the music of the show, there’s a strong Clare connection.

“We’re absolutely delighted to be returning again after such a long absence” says Michael Donnellan. “We intended to come back a couple of years ago. Covid really upended everything in the entertainment world. It was a really tough time for all the shows and artists. The endless waiting for everything to restart was a challenge. We got close to restarting a couple of times. In November 2021 we even had all the rehearsals done, concerts booked, flights booked, and then boom Germany went back into lockdown. It was heartbreaking”.

Danceperados of Ireland has performed over 450 shows in the last ten years touring Europe’s most prestigious venues such as the Dome de Paris, Admiralspalast Berlin and World Forum Hague. Featuring a line up of 14 dancers and 5 musicians, it is a two hour extravaganza of music and dance.

“In 2019 we had two sold out shows in Glor, it was great to perform in our home town, even if it was a massive challenge logistically bringing all the lights and equip-

ment etc from our base in Germany” explains Donnellan. “We were actually a victim of our own success in a way the last time with it selling so well. I met so many people afterwards who didn’t get the opportunity to see the show because it sold out so far in advance so this time we’re putting on a third performance. It’ll be an extra matinee on Sunday afternoon with a special €14 rate for children. I feel it’s important for the next generation to see what’s possible if they stick at the music and the dancing. I’m particularly proud to have two of my own past pupils in the show, full time professional dancers”

“The show always has a theme, alongside the music and dance. We like to bring a bit of Ireland and Irish heritage and history to life when we tour all over Europe. The last show in 2019 was on the theme of the Irish whiskey industry, and this time around we’re focusing on the coastal fishing communities and their history and way of life in Ireland. The old videos and photographs on screen are a fascinating backdrop but of course the dancing and music is front and centre”

Danceperados of Ireland is performing Saturday 7 Dec 20:00 and on Sunday 8 Dec at 16:00 and 20:00

Tickets from www.glor.ie

€14 child / €32 adult

Michael Donnellan

lDANCEPERADOS OF IRELAND: Michael Donnellan, two time world champion and choreographer

Ennis: Talk of the Town

Need for Ennis A&E backed by Limerick candidates

by Caitlin Earle news@clareecho.ie

FOUR Limerick candidates pubically have declared the re-opening of emergency departments in the mid-west as a priority.

A debate was held the debate in University of Limerick on Wednesday, November 20 to discuss the most pressing topics ahead of the General Election on Friday November 29.

The seven Limirick candidate attendance were; Senator Paul Gavan (SF), Ruairí Fahy (PBP), Dean Lillis (Ind) and Melaine Cleary (Ind), Cllr Conor Sheehan (Labour), Cllr Elisa O’Donovan (SocDem) and Dee Ryan (FF).

A frequent topic of debate was the previous closure of the emergency departments in Ennis, Nenagh, and St. John’s in Limerick. These emergency departments were closed in 2009 to allow University Hospital Limerick (UHL) to become a “center of excellence”. However, as can be seen by the increase of people on trolleys, rising waitlists, and staff shortages, this “center of excellence” has failed to deliver.

Four of the seven candidates present at the debate definitively stated that, should

they be voted to the 34th Dáil, they would campaign to open more 24 hour urgent care centers in the midwest to help ease the pressure on UHL.

While speaking on the topic, Ruairí Fahy (PBP) stated that people are “afraid to go to UHL, they’re driving to Galway or Portlaoise”. He also stated that Leo Vardakar’s policy of “doing more with less” by reducing the number of hospital beds was a disgrace.

During the debate a question was posed

to candidates of the general election candidates in Limerick city who attended on the state of University Hospital Limerick.

Each of the candidates were given a chance to respond. Many candidates, such as Cllr Conor Sheehan (Labour) and Cllr Elisa O’Donovan (SocDem) discussed the need for a total lift on the hiring embargo in the HSE and increased healthcare training in the midwest.

Clare Root Society lauches new history book

by Jane Hinchy news@clareecho.ie

THE Clare Roots Society will launch the latest edition to their series of local history books this week.

This edition is based on Parnell Street/High Street formaley Mill street, one of the oldest streets in Ennis town .

All are welcome to the launch of The People of High Street and Parnell Street book on December 5 at 8:30 p.m. in the Ennis Parish Centre.

The book will be available at Ennis BookShop Abbey Street, O’Connor’s Market Street and Heaslips in O’Connell Street from next Friday. December 27.

Written by Dublin based society member Lucille Ellis. The book explores Parnell Street’s transformation from Mill Street, detailing famine ,fire and floods throughout the centuries and the development of High Street and O’Connell Square. This is Clare Roots Society 43rd publication since 2012 while

this is Lucille’s 6th Publication having previously published other works.

In the foreword to the book

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy, Mayor of the Ennis Municipal District describes the book as “giving an insight Chapter by

TY students to host sustainable Christmas Market in aid of SVP

The transition students of Ennis Community College and Gaelcholaiste an Chlair plan to host a sustainable Christmas market on Wednesday December 11 from 9am-6pm.

As part of their Young Social Innovators project the transition year students hope to help the people of Ennis celebrate the festive season but also make sustainable choices with a “Second chance at Christmas” market.

They plan to keep their unique Christmas market enviornmentally friendly by striving to ensure that all of the products availble at the market are sustainable. From books, toys or clothes that have been donated to decorations made form upcycled materials by the students themselves.

There will also be a raffle, bake sale, Christmas jumper swap and much on more on the day.

All proceeds from this eco-concious christmas event will go to St. Vincent de Paul.

If you would like to donate please contact the transition year coordinator Martina McNamara at martina.mcnamara@ eccdrive.com

People with Passion celebrates 5th anniversay

PEOPLE with Passion celebtrate 5th anniversay party by transforming the West County Hotel into a creative whirlwind.

On Saturday November 23, the West County Hotel in Ennis played host to a variety of artictic projects all on display to mark this milestone occasssion for the People with Passion organisation.

Hosted by Katarzyna Dabrowska the group organsier and Kiera Mullane the night included musical preformances from Sacha Runa, Bella Music, Katie O’Connor and locla legneds Los Paddys, dancing display from Fuego

Groove dancers, Candais Capoeira, Ewa Kotula Earls and the Limerockers

There was also a fashion show and artwork by Marta, Paweł Maciąg, Karolina Pajenckovsyte, Marta Matyka from Korony Mocy , Forget Me Knot, Bobbie, Dream Media, Lucy Dudek, Lena Pawlowska and Feels like Home_Handmade wax melts were also on display. Guests enjoyed delicious treats from Kasia Norkowa’s Thermomix team, Simply Delicious and MMCookies, as well as a gorgeous cake made by Lucy Dudek.

Chapter of the various business-

lHIGH STREET

lLIMIRECK BACKING ENNIS A&E: University of Limerick aerial view [inset image: Cllr Ruairí Fahy (PBP)]

l 5th ANNIVERSARY: Liam Mulcahy, Fer Kenobi, Andrea Kafonkova, Kate Dabrowska, Lenka Fairy, Sean Murphy, Paddy Mulcahy

Galway councillors approve borrowing of €66.5m to fund three housing schemes

by Páraic McMahon

ELECTED MEMBERS of Galway County Council have approved the local authority’s housing borrowing requirements.

Approval of loans totalling €66.5 million is required to fund critical housing projects and schemes, aimed at addressing housing shortages, promoting affordable and cost rental options, regenerating communities by bringing vacant properties back into use and investing in existing social housing.

The borrowing approval will enable the delivery of the first affordable cost rental homes by Galway County Council and the advancement of three affordable housing schemes in Baile Chláir (Claregalway) and Athenry.

Following the unanimous approval by the Elected Members, Galway County Council will now seek loan approval from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage that will allow for investment in the County’s housing needs.

“County Galway is experiencing increased demand for affordable and social housing and, therefore, it is critically important the Local Authority is sufficiently resourced to deliver new housing schemes, bring vacant and derelict properties back into use and maintain our existing housing stock to modern standards,” explained Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council.

He added, “The support of Elected Members in achieving this goal is paramount and their approval of our Housing Borrowing require-

Gort Cancer Support Centre hosts pop-up shop

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

GORT Cancer Support Centre will be holding their annual Christmas Pop-up Shop in the Studio at Hollyblue House, Garrabeg on Thursday November 28 from 6:30–8:30pm and on Friday November 29 from 10am-4pm.

Gort Cancer Support Centre offers a confidential community-based cancer support service to anybody affected by a cancer diagnosis in the South Galway / North Clare areas. All of their services are provided free of charge.

The centre currently receives very little by way of State funding so all these fundraising efforts are vital to ensure that they can continue to provide these supportive services.

Available at the Support Centre’s popup shop will be a selection of gifts, including scarves, perfume, photo frames etc. Gort Cancer Support centre’s Christmas card packs and tickets for the centre’s annual Christmas raffle will be also available at the pop-up shop.

Gort Cancer Supports Christmas cards feature stunning artwork created during their weekly art classes with Mavis Gormally held every Tuesday afternoon. Each pack retails for €12 and contains 12 cards, with 2 cards each of 6 different designs by 6 different artists.

The annual raffle has an incredible line-up of prizes again this year, including:

l A state-of-the-art Quooker tap

l A generous Aer Lingus voucher for

your next adventure

l Cash prizes to brighten your day

l One4All gift cards for endless shopping possibilities

You can purchase your raffle tickets online at this link: https://www.idonate. ie/raffle/HollyblueRaffle2024. Alternatively, tickets are available at our centre during opening hours.

lGORT CANCER SUPPORT CENTRE: members of the support centre team with Cllr Clodagh Higgins

ments marks an important step in this process.”

Michael Owens, Director of Services for Housing with Galway County Council said, “Significant progress has been made in 2024 to date in delivering social and affordable housing schemes with numerous developments completed and under construction across County Galway. The collective ambition of the local authority and its members to tackling vacancy and dereliction rates and increasing and improving our housing stock can only be realised by successfully securing the necessary funding from the relevant agencies, which the approval of the borrowing requirement by the Elected Members and the Minister will enable us to do”.

Burren Lowlands CLG Celebrates 10th Anniversary and Hosts

BURREN Lowlands CLG marked a decade of community engagement with a special 10th Anniversary Celebration at the Lady Gregory Hotel, Gort.

The event was run in conjuction with the organisations AGM and was attended by a diverse group of community members, local businesses, and volunteers who have supported Burren Lowlands’ journey over the past ten years.

As Burren Lowlands moves into its second decade, the organisation remains committed to fostering community growth, supporting local businesses, and promoting the cultural and economic development of the Burren Lowlands region. With a strong volunteer base, continued partnerships, and a forward-thinking approach, Burren Lowlands is well-positioned for another decade of positive impact.

Founding member and Chairperson Cathal O’Donoghue spoke at the 10th anniversary event sharing his reflections on Burren Lowlands’ early days. O’Donoghue also expressed gratitude to the

members and volunteers over the years, and particularly Cllr Joe Byrne, who was elected around the same time as the organisation’s formation.

Karen O’Neill, another founding member of Burren Lowlands was presented with a gift of appreciation by Cathal O’Donoghue and secretary Megan Flynn Dixon. The celebration continued with a delicious cake, made by Caroline Brennan of Caroline’s Bakes & Preserves.

The AGM portion of the

meeting saw Megan Flynn Dixon elected to the role of chairperson with Karen O’Neill continuing as vice chairperson. David Tarpey is staying on as treasurer and the team are supported by Gerry Connelly, Cathal O’Donoghue, Bob King, Suzanne Wunsch, Sally Smith, Pat Farrell, Frances Walsh and Gerry Finnerty as directors.

The group is on the lookout for a new secretary. Enquiries can be made to burrenlowlands@gmai.com.

l3 HOUSING PROJECTS: Chief Executive of Glaway Co Council Liam Coeally

l 10TH ANNIVERSARY: Ed Sommerville, Karen O’Neill and Cathal O’Donoghue

IFA looking for robust measures to curb dog attacks on sheep

THE IRISH Farmers Association are calling for robust measures to be put in place to curb dog atacks on sheep.

This action comes after North Clare farmers warned that they would “take the law into their own hands if Gardaí do not intervene in the continued illegal hunting across the county.

National Sheep Chair Adrian Gallagher has strongly condemned the recent dog attacks on sheep in Cork and Clare, calling it a stark reminder of the ongoing crises of irresponsible dog ownership.

He said 20 sheep have been killed in the incidence in Cork with more to be put down due to the severity of their injuries while over 7 have been killed or injured in Clare.

The IFA National Sheep Chair described the both incidents as another act of failure from Government to put actions in place to deal with irresponsible dog ownership across the country.

It’s a national crisis that needs a solution immediately. He said the time for talking is over, dog attacks on livestock have reached unprecedented levels and farmers have

had enough.

IFA have put forward strong measures that are needed to control dog attacks to both Ministers responsible for this area but we have not seen any progress on any of these proposals as the devastation continues.

He said current systems in place are failing to protect farmers and their livestock. The level of sanctions that are in place do not reflect the level trauma these dogs are causing.

The absence of a centralised database to identify those responsible for the dogs and the lack of enforcement on the ground are all adding to this escalating issue.

Based on latest published figures of implementation of the the Local authorities, it is clear the existing obligations of dog owners are not been enforced with only 311 prosecutions initiated and just 34% of the 1,858 on spot fines paid in 2023.

He said dog ownership laws currently fall between two different departments which has led to gaps in oversight, enforcement, and accountability undermining the efforts to address the issue.

Parents Urged not to buy e-scooters as Christmas gifts

CHRISTMAS is coming up and we know you have a neverending list of things to think about on the run up to the holidays.

The Clare Echo has teamed up with Martin Daly Autos to help you and your family stay safe on the roadds this Christmas, so you have one less thing to think about.

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is urging parents too prioritise their childresn safety and to avoid buying e-scooters scramblers or quad bikes this Christmas.

As part of new laws introduced in May of this year, individuals must be at least 16 years old to legally use an e-scooter in Ireland. They’re also banned from footpaths and users are not allowed to carry passengers.

The RSA also wants to remind parents that quad bikes and scramblers pose significant safety risks to children. They urge parents to avoid gifting these vehicles to ensure the safety and well-being of young people during the holiday season.

Four e-scooter riders were killed and 117 seriously injured on Irish roads between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2023. During the same period, 1 other road user was killed and 20 more seriously injured in collisions involving e-scooters.

Casualty figures show that between 1 January 2020 and 31 December 2023, 49

people were seriously injured in collisions involving a quadbike or scrambler on a public road. In the same period, there were three fatalities involving quad bikes or scramblers on public roads.

Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the RSA, explained: “The greatest gift parents can give this year is ensuring the safety of their children. Parents should not consider purchasing a quad or an e-scooter for any child this Christmas. It is crucial for parents and members of the public to be recognise that quads and e-scooters are designed to be operated by those of an age to fully understand the dangers they pose when not being used appropriately and/or on uneven terrain.”

If your child is looking for there own fun form of trasnportation this Christmas there are plenty of safe options to consider. You can go for the classic mountain bike or razor scooter. If your child is looking for something a little different you could choose a skateboard or some roller blades. These options are fun for children and will give them a sense of freedom without putting them in harms way, just make sure to buy a helmet aswell.

If you have nay other concerens about vehicle or road safety this Christmas make sure to drop into Martin Daly Autos located in the Quin Road Business Park.

Parents urged to to buy

as Christmas gifts

Shannon Springs Hotel kicks off the festive season with Christmas tree lighting

SHANNON Springs Hotel brought the spirit of Christmas to life with its highly anticipated Christmas Tree Lighting Event, creating a magical evening for the community to enjoy.

Families, friends, and guests gathered to celebrate the start of the festive season in style.

The evening was filled with joy and excitement as the hotel’s stunning Christmas

Tree was lit, illuminating the grounds with dazzling lights and holiday cheer. The event featured live entertainment, including festive music that set the perfect holiday tone, spreading warmth and happiness throughout the crowd.

The highlight for many children was a special visit from Santa Claus himself, who took time to greet his young fans and bring smiles to their faces. Each child left with a festive

gift, ensuring magical memories for all. Guests also enjoyed a variety of seasonal refreshments, from warming hot chocolates to delicious holiday treats, all served in the cozy atmosphere that Shannon Springs Hotel is known for.

The hotel team is thrilled with the turnout and extends a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who attended and made the evening so special.

Owner/Director John Gavin said, “This event is our way of giving back to the community, bringing people together to share in the magic of Christmas.”

Shannon Springs Hotel looks forward to continuing its tradition of spreading festive cheer and wishes everyone a happy and safe holiday season.

Stay tuned for more exciting events in the weeks ahead!

lSHANNON SPRINGS

SPIRIT: (far left) Sinead and John Gavin with children Zoey and Oran. Also pictured

Remaining photos: The people of Shannon enjoy the festivities provided by Shannon Springs Hotel

Photos by: Natasha Barton.

UCC alumni award for Mick Guinee

by Páraic McMahon

FOUNDER and CEO of Ei Electronics, Mick Guinee has been honoured with an Alumni Achievement Award from his Alma Mater, University College Cork.

Mick was amongst nine Alumni recently recognised by the University for their exceptional achievements since graduation.

A Cork native, Mick graduated with a Degree in Electrical Engineering from UCC, and went on to complete a Masters in Industrial Engineering at University College Dublin.

His career with General Electric commenced shortly thereafter and in 1984 he was made Managing Director of its Affiliate in Shannon – the EI Company, as it was then known.

He led a successful MBO of that business from GE in 1988 and under his stewardship, the Company has grown since then to employ 1,250 worldwide, with a turnover of over €400 million.

One of the largest employers in the Midwest, Ei Electronics is today heralded as an exemplar Irish indigenous manufacturing and exporting Company, and noted for its longstanding culture of community engagement and corporate social responsibility.

The Shannon Airport Group Hosts Event for Galway Chamber Business Award Finalists

THE SHANNON Airport group hosted and event to celebrate the finalists in the Galway Chamber Business Awards on Tuedsay November 26.

Business leaders from diverse sectors, including technology, healthcare, hospitality, entertainment, food and beverage, education, waste management, and professional services, began their day with a visit to the Shannon Airport Business Park.

At Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI), they heard from CEO Russel Vickers, who shared fascinating insights into the latest advancements in driverless car and air mobility technology. This set an inspiring tone for the event, highlighting the potential for innovation to shape the region’s future.

The business group was then welcomed to Shannon Airport by Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group. During a presentation by Airport Director Niall Kearns, attendees were introduced to the airport’s pioneering history and its customer-focused innovations.

At the presentation, Shannon Airport showcased its extensive range of services to 33 destinations

across the UK, US, and Europe, including exciting winter holiday getaways. On track to handle 2 million passengers this year, the airport continues to attract travellers nationwide with its ease of use—offering seamless access from car park to transit lounge in just 10 minutes.

The first airport in the world to have full US preclearance, which has gotten even quicker to use thanks to a new mobile app making it easier and faster when taking flights to New York, Newark, Boston or Chicago from Shannon.

Galway Chamber Business Award finalists also heard about the airport’s dedication to accessibility, Shannon introduced Europe’s first airport sensory room and recently joined the global Hidden Disabilities Sunflower programme. It is also one of just two airports globally recognised with Age Friendly status by the WHO. With a proud history of innovation, including the world’s first duty-free shop, Shannon Airport remains a leader in passenger experience.

Reflecting on the event, Mary Considine expressed pride in The Shannon Airport Group’s sponsorship of the Galway Chamber

Business Awards said: “The Galway Chamber Business Awards celebrate the remarkable innovation, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit driving our region’s success. Hosting today’s event was a wonderful opportunity to connect with the finalists, showcase the pioneering work of The Shannon Airport Group, and highlight our shared

commitment to fostering regional growth. We wish all the finalists’ great success at the awards and in their future endeavours. Their creativity and determination are key to the West of Ireland’s future success.”

Elaine Murphy, COO at Galway Chamber thanked The Shannon Airport Group for their ongo-

ing support, now in its 11th year: “Today was an invaluable opportunity for our finalists to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from the impactful work of The Shannon Airport Group. Their continued partnership has played a significant role in supporting and showcasing the best of Galway’s businesses.”

lFINALISTS: Galway Chamber Business Awards

l ALUMNI AWARD: Mick Guineebeing presented with the award by UCC President, Prof. John O’ Halloran

paraic@clareecho.ie

Sexton’s have the best selection of fresh fish in Co. Clare

Clare Students join celebrations of over 5,000 ATU graduates

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

CLARE Students join Celebrations as ATU Completes Conferring Ceremonies with Over 5,000 Graduates this Year.

Atlantic Technological University (ATU) completed its 2024 graduations last week, celebrating the achievements of over 5,000 graduates in ceremonies in Donegal, Galway, Sligo, Mayo and Connemara. The ceremonies have brought together students, families and faculty to honour the hard work and dedication of graduates across a wide range of disciplines, from undergraduate certificates to doctoral degrees. Fields as diverse as science, engineering, health, business, and the creative arts were recognised, in one of the most important events in the university calendar year.

Amongst the honoured graduates were five Clare students. From Doonbeg in West Clare siblings with a Master of Science in Circular Economy Leadership for the Built Environment and with Higher Diploma in En-

gineering in Civil Engineering both from ATU Galway respectivley. There were also graduates from East Clare receieving their diplomas from ATU Galway on the day. Laura Bracken, from Killaloe graduates with a BSc (Hons) in Furniture Making and Architectural Woodworking. Erin and Leo Murray from Killanena, Co Clare, graduated from the same course at ATU. The siblings graduated from ATU with a BSc in Applied Freshwater and Marine Biology.

Speaking at the Galway

ceremony, Dr Orla Flynn, President of ATU, extended her congratulations to all graduates, stating it will have a real impact on the region, “This year, ATU will have seen about 5000 graduates receiving awards – that brings a hugely positive impact on society and especially across this region. As you, our wonderful new graduates, step into the next phase of your careers, I encourage you to stay connected with ATU and to join our growing family of alumni Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for

Local man killed in Kilrush road accident

DARRAGH ‘Bob’ Rigney (37) from Ennis Road, Kilmihil was fatally injured following a single car collision near Kilrush on Sunday November 24. The road accident was reported to the authorities in the early hours of the morning Rigney was fatally injusred when the car he was driving crashed at Kilmurry McMahon, about 13 kilometers east of Kilrush just after 3 am.

He survived by his parents Eamon and Liz, brothers Damian, David and Declan, his partner Tracey (O’Dea) and sisters Anna and Holly.

Gardaí are appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time and may have witnessed

the West and Northwest of Ireland, and beyond.”

Dr Flynn also highlighted the university’s ongoing commitment to the region, noting that ATU will continue to expand its offer ings and respond to the needs of students and the wid er community.

Highlighting re cent developments like the introduction of Veterinary

the incident or has dashcam footage to come forward.

Anyone with any information is asked to contact Kilrush Garda Station on 065 908 0550, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

lGardaí are appealing for witnesses

Medicine and Pharmacy programmes, she added, “In just two and a half years, ATU has focused on addressing regional needs. The launch of these programmes is proof of our commitment, though much work remains ahead.”

In her speech to graduates, Dr Flynn called for the removal of constraints on the technological university (TU) sector, constraints that prevent ATU from better serving the West and Northwest of Ireland. “To fully deliver on our promise to the region, we need to be given the full set of tools used by other universities in Ireland and across Europe. We need to be able to appoint Profes-

NOTES

sors, access funds for essential facilities, and develop affordable student accommodation.”

Dr Flynn concluded by repeating an appeal to policymakers saying, “I am calling on those who hold the keys to use them, to enable us to unlock our full potential and, in turn, the potential of the region.”

ATU’s 2024 conferring celebrations will conclude with a special honorary Doctorate ceremony which will take place at the ATU Mayo campus on December 2, where former President of Ireland, Mary Robinson, will be honoured for her extraordinary contribution to society.

Christmas market

CHRISTMAS Market at Kilrush Square on Saturday, December 7, from 12:00 to 5:00 PM Highlights of the day include:

l25 unique stalls featuring local crafts, foods, and gifts.

lAdorable alpacas for everyone to meet and enjoy.

lSanta arriving in style on a horsedrawn sleigh.

lA chance to visit Santa’s Grotto for some Christmas cheer.

lPerformances by local choirs, filling the square with beautiful carols.

lA special raffle in aid of West Clare Cancer

THE LAST Kilrush and District Historical Society (KDHS) lecture of 2024, entitled “The Disappeared” - Forced Disappearances in Ireland 1916 - 2016, will be presented by Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc on Tuesday November 26 at 8pm in the Teach Ceoil.

To watch the lecture live online at the scheduled lecture time (or to watch a recording online at any subsequent time of your choosing), go to https://youtube. com/live/DFc_fIxloxU.

KDHS lectures are free to members and cost €5 for non-members, payable on the night only.

lWEST CLARE SIBLINGS: Martin and Ciara Breen pictured at ATU conferring

l Brother and sister, Erin and Leo Murray from Killanena [inset image: Laura Bracken, from Killaloe]

Kilrush

Close to 200 attend Clare Echo Electoral Chair Live debate

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

CLOSE to 200 people attended The Clare Echo’s Electoral Chair Live debate last Thursday night at Hotel Woodstock.

Sponsored by OneBill.ie and hosted by The Clare Echo’s Head of News & Sport, Páraic McMahon, 17 of Clare’s 2024 general election candidates debated the key issues as constituents prepare to go to their polling booths this Friday, November 29.

The live debate underpins The Clare Echo’s dedicated to providing the public with fair and honest coverage of the election campaign. We want to help you make strong and informed decisions this Friday.

In attendance at Hotel Woodstock in Ennis were Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Senator Timmy Dooley (FF), Senator Roisin Garvey (GP), Michael Loughrey (IP), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Matthew Moroney (IND), Paddy Murphy (IND), Eddie Punch (IND), Leonora Carey (FG), Cathal Crowe TD (FF), Kevin Hassett (IND), Michael Leahy (IFP), Amanda Major (IND), Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF), Tom Nolan (FG) Hilary Tonge (SD) and Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND).

Apologies were received from June Dillon (AON), Catriona Ni Chatháin (SOC) and Barry O’Donovan (RAB) who were not in attendance.

Heated and lively debate, moderated expertly by McMahon, led to a lively 2.5 hours

of action at Hotel Woodstock. The reopening of Ennis Hospital A&E services has been top of the agenda for many of the candidates on the campaign trail. Indeed it was arguably the

main topic of discussion along with immigration, Shannon Airport, housing, regional development, active travel, climate change, offshore wind energy, garda resources, Ennis

2040, along with sex education in our school system.

A Q&A segment saw the audience get their opportunity to ask questions that mattered to them, including the

In closing the Debate Páraic McMahon says: “We entered the election with the goal of making you the most important when it comes to casting your vote on November 29th. There is more information in this week’s paper on each candidate on what they hope to achieve. So we ask you to do two things; before November 29th. Pick up the Clare Echo, read it and on November 29th, vote. But before then subscribe to The Clare Echo support what we do because our election promise is: we’ll continue to keep asking the tough questions and hold the people in power accountable”

The audience on the night helped raise close to €500 for Cahercalla Community Care with a raffle during the interval with prizes generously donated by OneBill.ie, Home Gallery Furniture, Boru Sports, Collins Jewellers, Shannon Springs Hotel, Hotel Woodstock, Blossoms on the Go Garden Centre, Haven Pharmacy Hollys, BodyWOW EMS, and The Snack Shack.

To watch the debate in full, find The Clare Echo on Youtube. The live debate was filmed by Paul Corey Photography with sound provided by sound engineer Matt Purcell.

Clare Echo Electoral Chair Debate: Ranking the candidates’ performance

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

IN THE largest and most significant public debate for Clare candidates ahead of General Election ‘24, some 17 of our election hopefuls took to the stage at Hotel Woodstock last Thursday night.

The Clare Echo’s Live Electoral Chair debate brought many key talking points and those in attendance walked away with an educated understanding of what the candidates in Clare stand for. Here, we assess how the candidates performed: who were the winners, who aided their chances of receiving more votes this Friday, and who did themselves no favours ahead of polling day?

How do you think the candidates performed? Visit The Clare Echo on Youtube to watch the debate in full.

Fact File

Róisín Garvey (Green Party) - Exceeded expectations Came prepared and her enthusiasm for all topics was evident. Continues to prove herself as a powerful public speaker. Spoke around the heated topic of immigration armed with facts.

Eddie Punch (II) - exceeded expectations

Cratloe farmer Eddie Punch, despite having ran in the European elections earlier this year, was still an unknown quantity to many constituents in Clare. He did his chances no harm on Thursday, showing an ability to connect with voters and spoke passionately on key issues such as wind energy and UHL.

Fact File

Rita McInerney (Fianna Fáil) - Exceeded expectations Polished and parliamentary are words which come to mind when assessing West Clare woman Rita’s performance. Spoke passionately about regional development.

Cathal Crowe (Fianna Fáil) - exceeded expectations Cathal’s vast political experience was on show as the former teacher managed to school Kevin Hassett (Ind) on the facts surrounding SPHE education. “Too many people consume their media on Twitter and they shut off RTÉ, they don’t read The Clare Echo, they don’t know what’s going on in the real world.”

Michael Leahy (IFP)exceeded expectations

Architect Leahy has in the past been forced to defend himself as not being a far-right politician. Whether or not that’s true, the Corofin man showed depth to spoke strongly on a range of topics including “the woke agenda”.

Fact File

Violet-Anne Wynne (Ind) - exceeded expectations

Violet-Anne’s tenure in Dáil Eireann has been full of ups and downs and the Kilrush-based politician managed to navigate some difficult questions on her financial affairs and from moderator Páraic McMahon with grace.

A capable speaker, like many of her peers Violet-Anne says that Ennis Hospital must be upgraded.

Dr Tom Nolan (Fine Gael) - Met expectations

Not a master debater, Kilkee’s Dr Nolan was pedestrian in getting his point across at times. However it can’t be overlooked that Tom came prepared, was very measured in his delivery and was frank in tempering expectations in terms of what can be delivered for Ennis Hospital.

Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fáil)

MET EXPECTATIONS

A strong public speaker, Senator Dooley backed up a very strong poster campaign for #GE24 and he kept momentum going last Thursday. The Mountshannon man found applause at his ease by challenging, and at times antagonising, anti-immigration candidate Michael Loughrey. Could do with dropping the long-winded hurling analogies to explain political scenarios.

l The audience watches on as candidates debate the hot topics

Photo by John Mangan

Fact File

Clare Echo Electoral Chair Debate: Ranking the candidates

Continued from p31

Matthew Moroney (Ind)below expectations

One of the quieter voices last Thursday, Moroney carried himself well but public speaking doesn’t appear his forte. When questioned on plans to grow passenger numbers at Shannon, he proposed an unprecedented cap on the price of flights. Struggled to stand out amongst seasoned operators.

Amanda Major (Independent)below expectations

Leonora Carey (Fine Gael) - met expectations

Fact File

Drew on her experience in the healthcare sector to speak convincingly on the UHL crisis, insisting 48 beds at design phase for the county hospital must be accelorated. Leonora was strong in her handling of questions relating to her brother Joe’s leave of absense from Dáil Eireann while collecting a salary.

Joe Cooney (FG) - below expectations

Maybe a victim of his own glowing reputation, many commentators have predicted Joe Cooney will be among the strongest vote-getters this weekend. Known as a ‘doer’, Joe didn’t break much ground when it came to talking and stayed away from specifics during this debate, instead opting to speak in generalities for much of the Electoral Chair live debate.

Michael Loughrey - below expectations

Donna McGettigan - met expectations

Donna’s reputation as one of the nice guys in politics is well-known across the county however she showed backbone on more than one occassion at Thursday’s debate. Donna couldn’t mask her distaste at Violet-Anne Wynne’s handling of her departure from Sinn Féin. The Shannon woman spoke eloquently while drawing on her family’s lived experience when discussing SPHE in our schools.

Fact File

Paddy Murphy (Ind)met expectations Lahinch publican Paddy was visibly nervous prior to taking to the stage but showed himself capable of speaking passionately about issues that matter to him, including tourism, rural Clare and immigration.

On her third outing in an election setting, Amanda appears out of her depth. Struggled to answer a question on the difference between a model 3 and model 4 hospital.

The Gort resident gave us some of the more memorable moments of the debate but ultimately he was cannon fodder for his opponents. Loughrey’s strict stance on not allowing immigrents into Ireland appears to be his only motivation in running for election.

Kevin Hassett (II)below expectations

Claimed he was being set up by The Clare Echo when moderator Páraic McMahon debunked Hassett on his claim that Cllr Dinny Gould was endorsing his campaign. The West Clare man sank back in his seat and failed to recover from this early interaction.

Hilary Tonge (SD) - Below expectations

Catriona Ní Chatháin (SOC, pictured), June Dillon (AON) and Barry O’Donovan (RAB)

BELOW EXPECTATIONS

An excellent opportunity was afforded to all the candidates of County Clare to debate the topics in a public forum, which is freely accessible to all the constituents of Clare either live at Hotel Woodstock or on Youtube. It’s unfortunate that three candidates were unable to attend.

Hilary showed a glimpse of what she’s capable of during her impassioned, pre-prepared 60 second pitch as the debate came to a close. Made some valid points in relation to failings of the current and previous governments in relation to health services, but ultimately didn’t leave her stamp on the debate. Visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZA0bhPNZy1Y

Campaign trail: Cathal Crowe in O’Briensbridge

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

BEEPING horns and waves seem to be a positive omen for Cathal Crowe TD (FF) who admits to being under far more pressure for this General Election campaign than his maiden success of 2020.

On Tuesday in O’Briensbridge, Crowe couldn’t have planned it better if he tried as a pause in the canvass sees a flurry of four cars in succession beep and salute in an indication he has their support.

“We will always remember you,” says one grateful constituent who is interrupted from dusting, offers from Crowe to reach the higher-up bits are declined but he is assured of the vote.

Crowe reminds people of O’Briensbridge that this is a follow-up call having previously canvassed them in September, while also encouraging them to liaise with his constituency office or Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) on any local issues.

A worker from a nursing home in Ardnacrusha reminds Crowe he was promised of their vote when he paid them a visit. “You’re lucky that I was not made sing for my supper then, ye went easy on me compared to an another nursing home” where the residents of Clarecasle Daycare Centre made him sing a few bars of ‘Grace’.

An exchange of leaflets between Crowe and Matthew Moroney (IND) was also conducted. Ordinarily, if one candidate came across another, the first to arrive would be let stay in the area with the other to move on but such practice is ignored for such a tight window.

At the home of an elderly couple, Crowe is told he has the number one vote and is questioned on whether Cllr

Tony O’Brien (FF) is running. He confirms that O’Brien has not entered the race. At every door, he asks for votes for his running mates Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) and Senator Timmy Dooley (FF).

“Ye had an accident recently,” says one homeowner. He shares the story of his mother-in-law aged 71 dying suddenly after she was hit by a car after coming out of Centra in Charleville where she stopped to buy a lotto ticket for the GAA club. “We are broken hearted,” he said.

On the move, Crowe is sending voice notes to a WhatsApp group of staff from his constituency office with details on the issues he is coming across on the doors. They are aiming within an hour to have an emailed response with the constituents.

“I do the clinics every month,” he tells a business man while reminding him of the powering up grant, “give your accountant a shout”. He adds, “it is one thing to show up at election time, you have to show up between elections and I do that”. Crowe now needs the people to show up for him as he faces into a second election which is always known as the ‘tricky election’.

Campaign trail: Eddie Punch, Kildysart

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PROBLEMS in the health services which have been visible for over a decade and declining rural services crop up for Eddie Punch (II) as he puts forward the case for electing an Independent TD with bargaining power.

Fresh from attending the Clare Leader Forum hustings on Monday, Eddie arrives in Kildysart with an enthusiastic crew of half a dozen canvassers.

Press and communications manager with the ICSA, Neassa Fitzgibbon is among his canvassers for the day. The Carlow native believed Eddie would serve as a very strong voice for farmers in the Dáil.

“I thought you were taller,” remarks the first business man that Punch comes across. “Charlie Haughey wasn’t too tall,” replies the Cratloe man.

Back to the more important matters, “business isn’t what is used to be in Kildysart” and the consequence has been felt since the closure of the bank in 2014. “It went from being a small town to a village, dropped from five days to three-day a week in 2009, it was ok and we were managing, we didn’t miss the two days, closed in 2014 and within a month my Mondays halved in turnover”.

Residents of Cranny, Coolmeen and Kilmurry McMahon would have made transactions at the bank and while in the locality made purchases in local shops but that trade has disappeared. “It’s the same with the post offices,” noted Eddie of the impact of their closure.

This prompts the fear of the

business man that the current post mistress won’t be replaced, “they won’t consider giving it to someone else in a place like this or Labasheeda”.

At Fitzgibbon Butchers, Tommy confirms that steak and mince are “selling best” in Kildysart. “The days of buying a load of meat and putting it in a pot is gone,” he said.

Along main street in Kildysart, Eddie points out a trend noticeable across villages in Clare, “what you’ll find is a lot of closed businesses on main street”.

“It’s cold for ye,” remarks one woman queuing in the post office. While behind the counter, Eileen gets Eddie to sign a document pledging his support for postmasters which he is happy to do, “we’re hoping to get 10-12 TDs elected” and in the process create a voting block or a cohort with enough numbers to potentially prop up a Government.

He recalled, “Back in Cratloe we had a post office problem and we had a fight to hold onto it but we did”. During his time as General Secretary of the ICSA, he said he worked with postmasters and their cause is something he is familiar with.

A missing letter from a sign

aboard a shop prompts Punch to issue an election promise before entering the premises where he says he’ll get the absent part of the sign if he becomes a TD.

“He stood for Europe,” Chairperson of the Clare branch of the ICMSA Martin McMahon, a vital member of Punch’s canvassing team outlines as they enter a premises. “There is a lot of those in it,” says the less than enthused man behind the till.

McMahon’s pitch is more well received at the next stop, “he is hoping to make some bit of a change and rattle them up”. The business owner admits, “I’ve seen your poster” to which Punch interjects “well here I am and now you see me”. Providing support for small businesses is one of his aims, “I have opposed bureaucracy in Europe and I know how it impacts ye with paperwork. The experience of working in a business sector is useful to have and we need more people with this background in the Dáil”.

On the doors, best wishes are voiced as Punch’s team underline, “he is a very good speaker and a very good communicator”. As the rain begins to pelt down, umbrellas are fetched for. Issues on health are raised at the door step with a woman revealing that she waited three hours for an ambulance which never arrived.

On health, he said that people are being mixed in with other individuals in corridors that they shouldn’t be. Trying to take a swing at fixing the problems is Punch who is viewed as the strongest Independent in the field.

Campaign trail: Rita McInerney in Ennistymon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

EXPERIENCE of running a small business and offering a voice for West and North Clare in the Dáil is the pitch of Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) in advance of polling day on Friday.

On a fresh Tuesday morning in Ennistymon, Rita remains energetic as the end of a hectic campaign nears. Currently chair of the playground committee in Doonbeg, ironically as she lands in Ennistymon her party colleague Cllr Shane Talty (FF) is meeting acting senior executive officer John Corry and senior engineer Tony Neville on trying to locate a similar facility for the North Clare town.

“I tore strips off Sinn Féin,” one female business owner tells Rita as she arrives in the door, “I told Sinn Féin they are not incentivising people to work”. The difficulties in securing staff is prompting this woman to fly an individual back from another continent to work with her for Christmas. “The current system is not incentivising young people to work but they are well able to get their lips done. It is depressing for young people not to work”.

Rita explains, “I am approaching this from a small business perspective because I know the pressure they are under”.

Comments of Michael O’Leary which poked fun at the amount of teachers in the Dáil come up on the canvass, “I get what Michael O’Leary was saying, we need business people in the Dáil because it is a business to the country”.

A man is seated in his car and he rolls down the window when Rita walks by, he reveals that he is awaiting a call from his oncologist and he didn’t want to be in his house when he receives the call. The ease at which he informs Rita of his health status and worries show that she is a trusted figure. As they walk past Boylesports, an employee

is taking a quick smoking break. “Don’t tell me the odds,” comments Rita, “If I canvass you, will it change odds?”.

Standing on the street is one woman who asks Rita what does she do, “I own a retail grocery store which has 12 people employed full-time. I’m a councillor which is supposed to be a part-time job, then a TD would be full time job, I like to keep busy”. Her pitch prompts the woman to commit to give McInerney the vote. Her literature is studied by the owner of the next store, as he scans the photograph he says “nice picture”, Rita quips, “that is before the campaign started, we could do a before and after photo”.

Addressing staff in another store, she said, “I want to represent Clare particularly NorthWest Clare, we need a geographical spread, the number one issue is the health service”. The need for mental health supports is flagged with the Doonbeg woman who swiftly responds, “we only spend 6% of health budget on mental health when the recommended average is 12%”.

This prompts one female worker to say, “start screaming for us” and Rita replies, “I want to fight for what we deserve”.

Visitors to the Cliffs of Moher are growing

but the benefit for surrounding communities is not increasing, one person explains. According to Rita, the decision of accommodation providers to house migrants “shows the tourism system isn’t working in the county if it is more profitable for them to put migrants into accommodation than use for tourists”.

Parking and Blake’s Corner stand as the “biggest issue” for businesses in Ennistymon. “they keep kicking them up and down”.

Passion exists among small business owners, Rita says while expressing her desire to provide them with a voice in the Dáil. One such owner outlines, “to be fair our biggest issue is parking and Blake’s Corner, they really need to be sorted, it’s the infrastructure here that is just a disaster”. On a more countywide

scale, the hospital “is the biggest priority”. Issus in nearby Ennis are also put to Cllr McInerney who admitted that she believes the planned Supermac’s Plaza is in the wrong location and that Ennis 2040 is “causing a lot of consternation”.

A birthday tea party for former councilor Flan Garvey (FF) in The Cheese Press is slightly interrupted. Rita enters Garvey territory but is given a warm welcome. 81 year old Flan predicts to The Clare Echo a seat for Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael with two seats up for grabs for others including his daughter Roisin (GP) and Sinn Féin. For Rita, there will be the parties of all parties if her appeal to be a voice for small businesses, West and North Clare comes to reality.

TDs can solve them. All corners of the county were visited for The Campaign Trail with participating candidates.

Violet-Anne Wynne TD (IND) and Hilary

both declined while efforts to

Campaign trail: Timmy Dooley in Lahinch

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

BIDDING TO win back his status as a TD is Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) who has mounted a very strong election campaign.

In Lahinch on Friday evening, the snow had disappeared from North Clare and in its place arrived Senator Dooley.

It’s been a campaign where it’s hard to miss Dooley, there’s his massive signs at different locations in the county, some of which have been defaced and his artillery is also strengthened by a Dooley van which is perched at the Liscannor Cross while he heads off on the canvass. When it comes to GE24, few have bettered the Mountshannon native on product placement.

Accompanied by Cllr Shane Talty (FF) and Liam Hayes, the son of Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Dooley doesn’t dilly dally and benefits from the local knowledge of Cllr Talty who is able to tell him if they are “one of ours” before arriving at any door, ours being code for Fianna Fáil supporters and not Ennistymon footballers to clarify.

Talty’s presence also alerts the Senator as to what various issues have been raised by the certain householders and the actions taken. Among them have been wastewater, the absence of an adequate wastewater treatment plant stops any new future housing develop-

ments in Lahinch.

Planning issues and the struggle to build houses on the N85 are also brought to their attention.

For Timmy it is a big election, as big as his 8x4 signs you could say. Having topped the poll in 2016, he suffered the lowpoint of his political career in The Falls Hotel in February 2020 when losing his seat as a TD.

Now, the Clare electorate are deciding whether or not he returns to Dáil Éireann, ironically the first door has a dog at the entrance who goes to sniff Dooley to suss him out, much like what the voters of the county are currently doing without flaring the nostrils.

Behind the door is a woman in her forties who said that “access to healthcare is shocking” as he pointed out it is “a good hour” to University Hospital Limerick from her residence, not the most reassuring distance to travel in case of an emergency. Limited psychiatric care in the region is also a concern brought to his attention and the struggles to retain staff in health services, “we are exporting our best people”. The lack of solutions is a source of annoyance, “it seems like we never had more money as a country”.

Solutions can sometimes be found right under our nose with a nearby property the residence of a medical student who shared that

the costs associated with third-level education are still on the rise. According to Dooley, “UHL is not able to cope with the population and the capacity”. He pointed out that 95 new beds have been added to its stock with 350 due “in the next few years”. The ongoing HIQA review is likely to recommend a model three hospital “close to the motorway network” while he maintained Ennis Hospital needed further bed capacity.

His message to the medical student is, “stay with us when you’re qualified, we need more student nurses and doctors to stay in the system”.

A Lahinch father advises Timmy that he is the first candidate to

knock on his door which strengthens his chance of getting the first preference. “I’ve been paying attention, I’ve been watching the debates. The biggest issues is health, I know the cost of living has gone up and housing is an issue too but it doesn’t affect me,” he admitted. He questions Dooley on the prospect of reopening Ennis Hospital and relays his fear that if he gets sick his nearest port of call is to UHL. The cost of the €2.2bn Children’s Hospital underlines “no accountability”.

More patients will be treated in the region with an additional 1,000 staff, Dooley responded. “There are some management issues in Limerick because it is not the worst performing in the country for no reason, there are layers of issues,” he admitted. The addition of new management teams at an administrative and clinical level can help the situation, he believed. “Ennis is a small hospital and a model two, to be safe you have to have multi-disciplinary teams,” he advised. Again he referred to the HIQA review and the efforts that must be undertaken to fight for Clare regarding its recommendations. “It is hard to disagree with you on the Children’s Hospital and I don’t come around giving you false promises or telling you what you want to hear”.

“You have four votes from this house,” declares the father in the next house. “I was dragged into

this,” confesses one of his sons while another member of the household points out, “I recognise you from the poster”.

Dinner is interrupted at the house of two Fianna Fáil supporters, they take a temporary break from the spuds to inform Dooley he has their backing. There’s a fright for an elderly couple when they see the bright jackets of Fianna Fáil, not because they’re against the party but rather they initially thought it was the Gardaí calling to pay a visit.

A barking dog keeps Timmy on his toes at the next door, “I hope she’s not as aggressive” is his hope of the homeowner and she isn’t as she admits, “we’ve no real issues, keep going”.

Health again crops up at another door, “we’ve third world services in the Mid-West, management is the problem”, said one woman while highlighting her anger that patients without a voice are left behind on trolleys in corridors.

On the last door there’s a confession, “I didn’t know it was on,” admits one local about the election.

“There’s less anger from people and no talk of change,” Dooley told The Clare Echo of his canvass overall.

So far as the Clare electorate is concerned, does size matter? When it comes to political signage that is! If it’s all about size then Dooley’s chances are looking promising.

Health: Fight for a Model 3

Education: Ensure schools are properly resourced, especially regarding

Rural: Better supports for the farming community, continued roll-out of fibre broadband, better funding for roads and access to public transport.

Shannon Airport: Continue to push for extra flights & design policies that increase Shannon’s overall market share.

Towns & villages: Prioritise supports for our communities including the delivery of new sewage and water schemes.

Housing: Increase supply of private, affordable and social housing to buy and rent.

Job creation: Support local entrepreneurs to set up businesses that retain 3rd level graduates in our

THE Clare Echo joined 11 of the 20 Clare General Election candidates on the campaign trail to get a feel of the issues cropping up in different areas and how prospective

Tonge (SD) did not acknowledge The Clare Echo’s request to join the canvass. Amanda Major (IND) and Caitríona Ní Cathain (SOC)

link up with June Dillon (AON), Michael Leahy (IFP), Michael Loughrey (IFP), Matthew Moroney (IND) and Barry O’Donovan (RAB) were not successful.

Campaign trail: Dr Tom Nolan in Quilty

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

‘POLE POLE’ pronounced poley poley is Swahili for slowly, it’s a phrase etched in the minds of those who climb Kilimanjaro. Dr Tom Nolan (FG) is one of them and he’s reminded of the expression on the canvass.

Granted Dr Nolan would have preferred smoother terrain on an election footing than to have been announced as Fine Gael’s second candidate only to have been blindsided by Cllr Joe Cooney’s decision to re-enter the field, a mere ten hours after the GP was added to the ticket.

In Quilty on Saturday morning, the effects of Storm Bert leave a mark on his canvassing team.

Cllr Gabriel Keating’s (FG) 242 Audi gets stuck in the floods and requires a local operation to rescue the stranded Cross native. “It was worth getting wet to get Tom elected,” Keating says.

A short but intensive election campaign reminds Nolan of trekking Kilimanjaro in 2008 over seven days, “It taught me patience”. ‘Pole pole’ is the saying of the locals urging people to go slowly, he said he followed their advice and it’s why he finished the climb when many of his younger counterparts were unable.

“I’ve learned a lot about myself,

l Cllr Gabriel Keating and Dr Tom

there is no easy answers, you can’t lie to people,” he said of his campaign which began on November 3. “It is frustrating to miss people at the doors because I like to engage and discuss the issues”.

Family members form part of Tom’s team for the canvass with Dr Billy O’Connell a familiar face to locals while former TD Madeline Taylor Quinn (FG) directed operations on the canvass and in retrieving a stranded Cllr Keating.

Health is cropping up on the doors frequently and why wouldn’t it be with two of West Clare’s most respected doctors knocking on the doors. “Our biggest project is to get Ennis hospital reopened,” Dr O’Connell said of their hope to reinstate it to a mod-

el three hospital. He warned that the huge waiting lists for nursing homes across the county is going to become a big issue.

“You cured me,” is the reaction when the next door opens in what is a guaranteed first preference. The struggles for cancer patients are discussed as a family member is currently receiving treatment and dealing with medical costs.

Plans to go fishing are discussed with one of Dr Nolan’s former patients. “I’ll look after this man,” says the West Clare man to which Tom responds, “and please look after yourself” while enquiring on his current health status.

When questioned on his background and his plans by a young woman, Tom outlined, “I’m canvassing for better acute services, this is meant to be why Fine Gael want me on the ticket to help them secure better health services”.

His forty years practicing as a GP in the area are mentioned as he pointed out, “we need all the number one votes we can get in West Clare”.

It’s been an educational campaign for Dr Nolan, following the pole pole philosophy has kept him composed even when Fine Gael headquarters may have tested his patience but he’s been reinvigorated by another attempt to restore services to Ennis Hospital.

Leonora Carey in Ennis

PARKING and pressures on businesses dominate the conversation as Leonora Carey (FG) engages in lengthy discussions.

On Monday evening, O’Connell Street is getting dark. As Leonora is flanked by former Fine Gael councillor Johnny Flynn and her niece Lily, they meet business owners and retail working to get a sense of how the town is faring amidst ongoing public realm works. Lack of parking is cropping up as a big item.

Leonora says that there is little to no signage on where to alert visitors where to park and she is told by one business man that within the direct environs of the town centre, only Abbey Street and Parnell Street are public car parks.

“Everyone wants the best for the town but we’re not all on the same page,” Carey maintained. She felt a mediator was needed to engage Clare County Council, Ennis 2040 DAC with the business community, a call first issued by Cllr Pat Daly (FF) earlier this year. “We need to sit down around a table and listen to each other”.

“We are open to pedestrianisation but there are consequences,” said one business man while expressing the view that parking spaces taken from O’Connell Street will not return, he also pointed out that 28 spaces have been lost between the Cathedral and Barrack St “at the click of a finger”.

Completed public realm works “will be lovely when it’s done but it’s going on too long,” is the view shared by two employees at one store. “Parking is a big issue,” they agree. “It is really important to say here (O’Connell Street) is clear and to shop locally for Christmas, we’re a county town,” Carey replied.

She continued, “Post Friday I hope to be a TD and a TD for the town promoting that this is where to come for a weekend break, we’ve brilliant spots and boutiques”. Moves to create more weekday festivals and the use of Central Government funding to a better degree must also be envisaged, she said. As she shakes hands with two retail workers, Leonora is told “you’re lovely and warm”. Public realm works didn’t impact on this business but they observed “a lull during the All-Ireland when everyone stopped working”. Carey replies, “how do we promote the whole street is key, there is a reason why Coca Cola keep advertising” while touching on the importance of getting the right message out. “Parking is a challenge but people will keep coming to town if they need to,” the retailer commented.

Meeting traders to see how they are faring is “an important engagement,” Leonora reflected while admitting it took two hours to get through Abbey Street such was the level of engagement. November 29 is Black Friday, a big day for businesses across the county but for Carey it’s polling day and some retail therapy may not be an option.

Best for Ennis Best for Clare

Leonora CAREY

Education Environment Employment

If elected to the Dáil, Leonora will canvass support for the provision of a third level education campus in Clare to complement the record investment in primary and secondary education throughout the county.

She will also campaign for a significant increase in funding for environmental and recreational projects including the extension of the River Fergus walk from Clarecastle Quay to Ennis Town Centre and eventually to the West Clare Way.

She will seek meaningful local engagement in devising a strategy to repurpose the Roche site as a world class location for public/private investment, with the primary objective of attracting sustainable employment to the site by 2027.

For continued growth and prosperity in the Ennis Municipal District, I am asking constituents to give their number 1 vote to Leonora Carey this Friday.

Cllr Paul Murphy

Please continue your preferences for Cllr Joe Cooney and Dr Tom Nolan

Campaign trail: Róisín Garvey in Ennis

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Fresh from organising a flash mob as Róisín Garvey (GP) canvasses in the county town, Garvey refuels in The Well where she is thanked by owner Aoibhin Garrihy for advising her of the powering-up grant.

Of the 20 Clare candidates, the Inagh woman has attracted the most national media attention. Prior and subsequent to being joined by The Clare Echo, she was accompanied by The Irish Independent’s Fionnan Sheehan and Tadhg McNally of The Irish Examiner

Her canvassing team are wearing ‘Garvey Hats’ while Róisín is keen to discuss the varying temperatures of the November weather, the flooding on Clare roads and how she is a real fighting chance of becoming the first Green TD elected in Clare.

As she hits the first door, the lady of the house answers, “thankfully my husband is not here. You are very well up on everything and good to speak,” she said, a sentiment presumably not shared by her spouse.

“You’re not coming in to watch the match,” says an elderly gentleman as he opens the door of his home, only to realise it is people looking for his vote and not to avail of room on his couch. He is quickly won over by Garvey and even does some appealing to this writer to give the Green’s Deputy Leader a first preference vote. “It is the first time someone at the door has canvassed for me,” rea-

lises Garvey.

A high vote is promised to Garvey by a father in his 40s who reveals he is giving his first preference to a Senator but one by the name of Timmy Dooley (FF). “Fianna Fáil are on 22 percent, I need all the number ones I can get,” says Roisin in launching her pitch.

“It’s mostly elder lemons around here,” a female pensioner says when discussing the housing estate with the Inagh woman. “Aren’t these estates lovely, why can’t we build houses like this. I think a lot of older people are going to vote for me,” Roisin responds.

Another ‘elder lemon’ justifies this theory, “I’ll vote for you because it is the people I know that I vote for and you’re a woman”. The need for the Ennis Town Bus is also highlighted to which Garvey announces that it will be run every half hour for 18 hours a day at different locations on the approaches to the town. “We’ll be on the bus,” comes the delighted reaction from the woman.

As Garvey makes her way around

with her team of canvassers, a door opens. “I recognise the voice,” says the lady who then praises Roisin for The Cheese Press in Ennistymon, a café run by her sister Sinead, “I love the restaurant”. She said, “I will definitely give you some number” to which Garvey pleads, “I need your number ones”.

There’s banana trees and fig trees in a well-utilised space of the garden of the next Ennis house. “A million gardens is a forest, if everyone had a garden like this then the biodiversity crisis would be sorted”.

Grants for playgrounds in small estates have been secured by the Greens in Government, Roisin tells the mother of a young family. A conversation begins as Gaeilge where a young girl speaks of her enjoyment at walking to school and how cars are bad for the environment.

Eamon Ryan’s (GP) role as party leader left a lot to be desired by a straight-talking female pensioner who describes him as a “parrot”. It prompts Garvey to claim she and Roderic O’Gorman (GP) have done well since their appointments while she also praised the work of Ryan. Mortgage advisor Emer O’Reilly is directing the canvass for Garvey. “She has a fire in her and is a worker. A strong women is needed in the Dáil for Clare,” she said while pointing out how the public warm to Roisin. It’s a strong and recognisable voice, now Roisin needs a vote to match it.

Paddy Murphy in Lahinch

ON THE go between his coffee shop Anna & Co - named after his daughter who is also the grand-daughter of Willie Daly - and The Nineteenth Bar, Paddy Murphy (IND) is in the final stages of his bid for the Dáil. He’s busy on Tuesday in Lahinch and is fresh from a trip to the Cliffs of Moher to see first-hand the congestion at the most visited outdoor attraction in the country. Visitor numbers are to be welcomed but Paddy’s point is there is such volume at the Cliffs yet Lahinch is not resembling a hive of activity. One business owner admits, “We’re not seeing it here, we are trying to get the buses to stop here. We’ve reinvested in the business but we’re just not seeing the bounce back”. A further setback has been encountered with the confusion surrounding their rates revalution which has prompted a submission of a complaint to Clare County Council.

Tulla native Paddy points out, “we’re not getting enough tourists but we’re obviously faring out much better than East Clare. All the tourists are funneled into the Cliffs and they are turning at the Liscannor Rd”. He said there is no comparison as to the days when the buses were coming off the ferry at Killimer and travelling through Lahinch on their way to the Cliffs.

To prove his theory, one restaurant is completely empty at 1:18pm but a café across the way is full to the brim. The costs for the restaurant in having a chef in the kitchen since 9am plus energy and business fees are flagged by Murphy. Inside, as they wait for visitors, staff are enjoying Paddy’s latest social media post as he points out that one of his ten signs have gone missing. His literature is left on the counter of the pharmacy store owned by his brother. “It’s the story of my life, a very sad story,” Paddy jokes with staff. “This is our local politician,” two visitors to the coastal spot are informed.

Paddy points to the post office which is likely to close unless an alternative operator is found. He says rural people living in Moy would often pop down in their tractors to Lahinch’s main street and pop to the post office which would have queues from 08:45. He says their way of life will now be changed. A friend of Paddy’s and a local business man admits he was due to leave for holidays on Thursday “but my conscious got the better of me so I’ll have to wait until Saturday and give you the vote”.

Campaign trail: Kevin Hassett in Kilrush

PUTTING IRISH PEOPLE FIRST

Michael Leahy graduated as an Architect in 1981 and has been an employer in Ennis since 1986. He is a former President of Ennis Chamber of Commerce and a former Board Member of An Bord Pleanála

HOUSING

We propose double tax relief on mortgage interest payments, as well as full VAT exemption for first time buyers. We will end all tax advantages for vulture funds

DEMAND RADICAL IMMIGRATION REFORM

Open-door policies are pricing Irish people out of homes, straining services, and eroding our cultural identity. We will enforce opt-outs, and ensure deportations

ENNIS HOSPITAL

Extend Ennis Hospital hours, fully fund a Medical Assessment Unit, and progress toward a 24-hour A&E with full theatre facilities

PROTECT CHILDREN FROM SEXUALISATION & GENDER IDEOLOGIES

Parents must have the final say in their child’s education, ensuring schools focus on age-appropriate, values-based content

PROMOTE RURAL IRELAND

We will fight to repeal the cattle cull and unfair practices in the meat industry. Planning rules will need to be simplified to allow local people to live in rural areas

AN CHEIST NÁISIÚNTA

We must advance a border poll to unite the island of Ireland, ensuring any settlement protects the rights and identity of the Ulster Unionist community

RIGHTLY or wrongly Kevin Hassett (IND) won’t back down from a fight even when the odds are against him.

After securing 448 first preference votes in the Kilrush LEA in June, Kevin needs to multiply that figure by at least 15 to be in contention for a Dáil seat.

It’s lunchtime in Kilrush on Saturday and it doesn’t take long for Hassett to refer to The Electoral Chair: Election Debate when he was questioned on his claims that Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) has backed his campaign when in fact Gould denied he had canvassed for the candidate to The Clare Echo

A phone call to Cllr Gould by Hassett doesn’t help his cause as the questioning he puts to Dinny outlines that the Cree man has indeed not canvassed for the Independent.

His frustration prompts Hassett to say, “Shur Páraic hates me” when speaking with a Kilrush business man.

Relaying what has been raised with him most on the canvass, Kevin points to the hospital and immigration, “the same thing is coming up the whole place”. He believed a primary care centre is needed in West Clare along with his view for a new hospital in Ennis on a greenfield site.

Bowman’s Lane lunchtime rush is interrupted as Kevin and his canvassers distribute leaflets. Apologies are extended to an elderly man sitting down with his bacon and cabbage, “anyone that can help us isn’t annoying us,” is the reply. In the town, a canvasser of Hassett’s points out a suspected incidence of drug-taking in the town while remarking, “why aren’t you reporting on that”.

En route to SuperValu, the second election attempt of the Kilkee man is pointed out, “you’re off again, you’re stone mad for canvassing”. He noted that with 20 candidates in the field “anything could happen” but offered his regards as two of the votes from their house are unavailable on Friday.

“What is he standing for,” asks a shopper. Kevin explained, “Ennis A&E is the big thing” and added “closing the borders” is a priority.

One working woman believed the population of Kilrush was rising. “Schools that have closed down are opening up and shops are being kept open, that is not a bad thing but we can’t get carried away with the facts that there isn’t a shed to be got around here”.

Lack of sporting facilities to try keep people in West Clare and the setback of missing out on funding for an indoor sports complex in Kilrush are also raised with the Independent.

“You’re the first man to ask for my vote so you will get it,” revealed a Mullagh man who questioned the seasoned dairy and beef farmer on his policies for farmers. He replied, “We are overburdened with emissions. The problem with emissions is the overburdens on tax and it is crippling us down”. Policies need to be revisited as they are not sustainable, he argued. “I’m not against us playing our part, we’re trying to get somewhere too fast.”

“We need representation here, we’ve no Town Council. We’ve no voice in the town at the moment only Ian Lynch. Our medical services are miles away from Limerick, we have to rely on a helicopter and go to Limerick, I’m speaking from experience. I will be voting for Kevin Hassett, Tom Nolan and Rita McInerney,” said one West Clare woman on the campaign trail. “Did you hear that,” a beaming Hassett pointed out to The Clare Echo without clarifying if he would get the first preference over Nolan or McInerney.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Campaign trail: Joe Cooney in Clonlara

TALK to Joe is the slogan of Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) and it’s ringing true with his phone hopping from house to house, writes Páraic McMahon

Kilmaley’s meeting with Cratloe in the U21B hurling semi-final means the meeting point for Cooney’s Clonlara canvass is switched from the GAA grounds to Scoil Seanáin Naofa on Sunday morning.

Cooney is managing who goes where before their team diverts on different routes. “He is something else,” observes former Junior Minister, Pat Breen (FG) who has been a central figure in the campaign, “I don’t know where he gets the energy”. Keeping up with Joe is a challenge as he seems to epitomize the ‘New

Energy’ slogan of Fine Gael during the election. “It is great to have the energy these days,” he says to former Clare hurler and ex-Clare camogie manager Colm Honan who pulls over in the car when he spots the O’Callaghans Mills man.

A man from the south side of Dublin is very positive at the door on the performance of Fine Gael. “Fine Gael are doing great and are getting my vote” while praising the introduction of the school meals and books plus the powering up grant.

Small businesses “really appreciate” the grant, Cooney confirms.

“Most important is to look after the people that are working”. More support is needed for the farming com-

munity, says Cooney. He believes housing has overtaken health as the biggest issue in Clare due to the difficulties encountered by people in getting onto the property ladder.

There has been no representation from working families, says a father of three young children. “We don’t

feel represented and we get no benefits,” he commented while stressing they are not looking for benefits but feel frustrated by the ease at which they are thrown out to people not bothered to work. “I am happy for Sinn Féin to stay in opposition,” he said as he admitted there was no political party willing to represent the working people.

A visit to the house of Cllr Michael Begley (IND) also forms part of the route but the former Mayor of Clare has been sent out to get the ingredients for the Sunday dinner.

“I don’t know why you are out, you’ll be in no trouble,” observes a political follower from Clonlara. “I’d like change, I like to keep people

on their toes,” he said while pointing out his dissatisfaction with the spend on the Leinster House bike shed, phone pouches for primary schools and the lack of supports for children with disabilities. A “tight line” of candidates from Meelick to Tulla is going to make matters interesting, the homeowner maintained.

How Cooney’s profile is growing on social media is put to the former Mayor of Clare, “I took a crash course on social media from Paudie,” he quips when pointing to this writer. Cooney has been “very good” to one particular family who welcome him in to sit down at the kitchen table. “He works very hard,” noted the lady of the house.

Campaign Trail: Donna McGettigan in Shannon

SINN FÉIN support is growing in Clare in the past fortnight according to Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) and her team. It’s chilly in Shannon on Monday evening as she is joined by a team of 11 in her home patch.

Canvassers go to the doors with Cllr McGettigan floating around, when there is an answer or an issue to be discussed, she will then head over to engage with the individual.

Behind one door is a plumber who has voted for Sinn Féin in the past and intends to do so again on Friday. “The only way to get change is to go and vote for change,” Donna says. “We have tried umpteen times,” he responds. She offers some hope to him by saying a sway at the doors has been visible in the last two weeks. “We are seeing a sway in the last

two weeks, people know our policies and they are questioning us on one or two things, when we answer then it seems to make up their mind for them”.

Discussion follows at one door on the rail line to Shannon Airport. Cllr McGettigan said elected members of the Council have met with Iarnród Éireann “and it is in their plans” where they were filled with confidence that it will definitely happen. She said it has not been finalised if the spur will go through Cratloe or Bunratty. “My concern is as a Shannon man, I really want to see it happen, I’m pissed off at the Dublin centralisation.

“I don’t like your leader,” admitted one man on Mary Lou McDonald while suggesting Sinn Féin would do better if Michelle O’Neill

was in control for the Republic. “I like her, she is a fantastic woman; isn’t it great to have two female leaders, she has been very supportive to me,” McGettigan replied.

One female canvasser admits she only joined Sinn Féin to vote for Donna.

How Donna helped to fix lights in Illaunmanagh is remembered by one woman who uses the road to go running, “all the work you do doesn’t go unnoticed”.

“Sorry you are down on my list, there is too much baggage” one man admits to Donna. “For someone so young how can I have baggage,” Donna asks to which he explained, “it’s the party. Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael are not the best but they are better than Sinn Féin”. She replied, “someone suffering wouldn’t say

that”. Her team are confident as is Donna that they can return a Sinn Féin TD for Clare for the second General Election in a row but this time they have no intention of letting go of the seat.

THE lands elevate up from the R473 with circa 100 metres of road frontage. The land also bounds the Solider Hill Road offering a further 150 mts of road frontage along this road. With the land elevation there are good views of Kilrush Marina and the Shannon Estuary. The area is primarily residential but given the scenary and popular location it also has holiday home demand.

Kilrush is a busy market town in West Clare with many shops, restaurants, banks, primary and secondary schools and good transportation links available. The picturesque village of Cappa is on the banks of the Shannon Estuary and is a short distance from the town of Kilrush.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

THIS original semi-detached dwelling has been converted into a two bedroom duplex unit with two further apartments constructed to the rear with private site and parking. Located in the heart of Kildysart within walking distance of all services and amenities including both primary and secondary schools this is an excellent investment opportunity.

Ennis town centre with access to the M18 Limerick/ Galway motorway is accessible within 20 minutes drive, with scenic walkways in the immediate locality and routes all along the Shannon Estuary leading to the Wild Atlantic Way along West Clare.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

THIS derelict, stone built cottage is located in the townland of Leitrim, on a rectangular site of circa 0.19 acres just 5.5 km from the village of Cree in West Clare.

The dwelling requires a full refurbishment and offers the prospective buyer the opportunity to design and modernise the building to their own requirements.

Cree is a rural village with many amenities including a primary school, preschool, shop, bars, church and beauty salon to name but a few.

The dwelling is within a short drive of many of the very popular beaches of West Clare including Doughmore 8 mins with Kilkee and Spanish Point beaches only 15 mins drive.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

Cappa Upper, Kilrush, Co. Clare

No. 1, 2 & 3 Powers Apartments, Kilrush Road, Kildysart, Co. Clare, V95TKK7

Leitrim, Cree, Co. Clare, V15W310

AMV: €35,000

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Friday 6th December 2024 at 12pm.

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Friday 6th December 2024 at 12pm.

FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION Friday 6th December 2024 at 12pm.

16 Days of Activism: an important call for action to end gender-based violence

2025 MARKS thirty years of Clare Haven Services. The organisation has developed and advanced since 1995 to best serve the women and children experiencing domestic abuse and coercive control across County Clare and the surrounding areas.

Domestic abuse can take many forms. It can be physical, financial, sexual, emotional or social. Domestic abuse can happen to anyone. There is no standard victim profile. One in four women in Ireland who have been in a relationship have been

abused by a current or former partner.

Clare Haven responds to this by providing a wide variety of support services to women and children. This includes the provision of emergency accommodation. The refuge has six family units and two transitional houses.

In 2023 85 women and 126 children were admitted to the refuge. Home is supposed to be a safe place, a sanctuary from the outside world. For many women and children, it is the most dangerous place to be.

Often the biggest victims of domestic abuse are the smallest. Clare Haven has a dedicated children’s facility which includes a playroom, outside play area, sensory room and youth spaces for the children residing in the refuge and for children affected by domestic abuse in the wider community. These dedicated children’s spaces focus on supporting the children and young people to feel emotionally secure during their time in refuge and to understand that what occurred was not their fault.

The Children and Young

People’s division of the service runs Outreach Supports and intervention programmes for young people who are subjected to coercive control and domestic abuse. This could be a 1:1 in a school or family resource centre with a Child & Youth support worker, or participation in a weekly support group or recovery programme. These supports offer children and young people a sense of not being alone in their experiences in that though everyone’s story is different, they are not alone in having lived with hurting and fighting.

Clare Haven operates a 24-hour confidential helpline offering support, empathy and understanding, as well as information on options available to women experiencing domestic abuse.

Navigating the legal system and going to court can be a daunting, overwhelming experience for women who are placed in an unfamiliar, clinical setting faced with meeting the perpetrator.

Clare Haven supports women through this process by providing a court accompaniment service. In 2023

208 women availed of this service.

Clare Haven is the only organisation of its kind in the county. The organisation’s work is not just concentrated in Ennis. Outreach clinics are held across the county in Shannon, Kilrush, Scarriff, Killaloe and Ennistymon. Client support workers are on hand to provide one to one support for women at these locations.

Clare Haven runs a series of prevention and intervention programmes for the victims of domestic abuse. This includes the Insights for Mothers series, women’s peer support group and TLC Kidz programme. A support group for pregnant women and the mothers of young children will soon be offered to women in the community affected by domestic abuse.

The 25th of November is an important date for domestic abuse organisations worldwide. It marks the start of the global 16 Days of Action campaign to end gender-based violence. Acting Services Manager of Clare Haven Services Brenda Breathnach says “we need to challenge the attitudes that perpetuate, rationalise and

normalise that violence, and deny women’s right to safety. Every day we see firsthand the devastation caused by domestic abuse. Demand for our services continues to be high. This campaign is an important time for raising awareness and bringing the issue into the public forum. Abuse is not happening else elsewhere. It’s very much happening here in Clare.”

As part of the campaign, a candlelight walk to remember women who have died through violence is taking place on the 3rd of December. Assembling at 18:15 at Ennis Garda Station walking to Ennis Courthouse.

Clare FM are hosting “Music in the Mall” in aid of Clare Haven again this year with live music in the Dunnes Stores Mall on Sunday December 15.

As 2024 is coming to an end and the service is at the cusp of thirty years of existence, it is timely to thank the businesses and individuals who have generously supported Clare Haven this year and for many years prior. Fundraising executive with Clare Haven Services Eva Cummins says “it is heartening to see the outpouring of support for our service from companies, schools and individuals who put so much time and effort into organising fundraisers on our behalf. We have renovated a youth space and modified our refuge playground to name but two projects with funds raised by these generous donors. These fundraisers foster the best of community spirit and the power of working together. To the people of Clare we are most grateful for your support.”

Christmas can be a difficult time for many. It offers no respite for women affected by domestic abuse. Support is available throughout the Christmas period by phoning the 24hour helpline on 065-6822435.

l 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM: Geraldine Gurure, a member of the CHS team

Spanish Point Community Group win Ocean Hero Group award

AN TAISCE’S Clean Coasts Programme celebrated Spanish Point Community Group and West Coast Surf Club from county Clare who made a difference for our marine environment this year with honours in 2 categories at the 2024 Ocean Hero Awards

Wednesday November 27 An Taisce’s Clean Coasts Programme hosted the Ocean Hero Awards Ceremony at the Gibson Hotel, Dublin, to celebrate and give thanks to the dedicated groups, individuals, communities, and businesses who have gone above and beyond to protect their local coastline and its surrounding environment, in 2024.

Every year, the Ocean Hero Awards commemorate the invaluable contribution and dedication that Clean Coasts volunteers, groups and communities give towards conserving Ireland’s unique coastal heritage.

Established in 2006 as the ‘Clean Coasts Merit Awards,’ the awards initially featured a single category, ‘The Clean Coasts Group of the Year.’ In the years following the awards have grown alongside the programme itself as more groups have come on board. As of 2024 there are over 2,000 Clean Coasts groups and over 40,000 volunteers who are actively engaging with the programme and who are integral to their coastal communities na-

tionwide.

In 2024, Clean Coasts determined six distinct categories, and after hundreds of nominations were received, a total of 30 groups, organisations and individuals made the shortlist for the title of Ocean Hero in each category.

In County Clare Spanish Point Community Group won joint 1st place in the Ocean Hero Group of the Year Award 2024 for their continued efforts in protecting and preserving their adopted beaches and coastline in county Clare. In 2024 Spanish Point Community Group has been very active undertaking several projects to help preserve and protect their local beaches and coastal environment. They have carried out efforts to achieve dune stabilisation and to prevent further damage to their precious dunes by planting marram grass and installing fencing and geobags. This year they also worked alongside a marine robotic research group from the University of Limerick who have created an environmental app named “Bluepoint” to help locate marine litter and to put any plastics found to good use. The group has championed environmental awareness and education in their local community through a number of events, workshops and talks and displays of noticeboards in the area.

Also nominated in county Clare was West Coast Surf Club located in Lahinch, who were shortlisted in the Youth of the Year category.

Throughout 2024 this group showed dedication in fostering a strong sense of community through a variety of programmes, including the Boardriders programme, Inclusion Sessions, and Mná na Tonnta. As part of their commitment to environmental stewardship, they actively integrated initiatives like the #2MinuteBeachClean and hosted fortnightly beach clean events. These activities provide young members with the opportunity to develop positive habits around plastic waste management and raise awareness about ocean litter.

Speaking at the Ocean Hero Awards ceremony, Conall O’Connor of the Department of Housing Local Government and Heritage said, “I would like to commend the Clean Coasts team for their outstanding work. The impact that their programme has on all our lives and particularly on coastal areas is immeasurable.”

Shane Dineen, Environment & Planning Manager at Fáilte Ireland added: “Fáilte Ireland has been proudly supporting An Taisce’s Clean Coasts programme for over a decade. The Ocean Hero Awards recognise the unwavering dedication, hard work, and commitment of individuals, volunteers, groups, and the broader community in safeguarding the future of our coastline and oceans. It is fantastic to see such a wide variety of entries across all award categories and the outstanding initiatives from across the country. The Clean Coasts groups are making an outstanding contribution to Ireland’s coastal environment through their conservation work which protects and enhances our extensive coastline and is highly valued by local communities and visitors alike.”

l YOUTH OF THE YEAR NOMINEE: West Coast Surf Club

l OCEAN HERO GROUP: Spanish Point Community Group

Pilot agri-enviornmental project to protect and improve Clare waterways

by Lisa Mullaly

lisa@clareecho.ie

CLARE farmers to be included in the pilot agri-enviornmental programme in an effort to protect and improve water quality.

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) are running a pilot of; The Waters of LIFE an eco farming intitiative. The project is an EU LIFE Integrated Project (IP) which aims to help restore our most pristine waters.

Six sub catchments have been chosen as demonstration catchments for the project. Graney has been slected as the Co Clare area.

IFA Environment Chair John Murphy said; “This is an opportunity for farmers in eligible catchments to apply for funding for ac-

tions on their farms.”

“Funding is available to farmers in these sub catchments under the pilot agri-environmental programme. It is an action and knowledge transfer-based payments scheme that is designed to reward farmers for protecting and improving water quality,” he said.

Some general actions that are supported under the pilot programme include runoff risk assessment; nutrient management planning; nutrient surplus recording; and catch crops.

There is also support available for fencing; livestock drinking facilities; riverside tree planting; spatially-targeted buffers; and drain blocking.

“Farmers in these sub catchments should give serious consideration to submitting an expres-

sion of interest. An expression of interest does not commit you to participating in the programme, nor does it guarantee entry”.

He emphasised that participation in the programme is completely voluntary. If accepted, it is up to the farmer to decide on the actions they want to implement and how they manage their farm.

The closing day for expressions of interest for the pilot agri-environmental programme in the Waters for Life project is Saturday, Nov ember 30.

For more information on the Pilot Agri-Environmental Programme, visit: www.ifa.ie.

lECO-FARMING PROJECT: River Graney

Record breaking revenues for Dromoland Castle

by Gordon Deegan

RECORD breaking revenues of €31.41m were enjoyed behind the luxury five star Dromoland Castle.

New accounts for Dromoland Castle Holdings Ltd show that revenues last year increased by 12 per cent from €27.94 million to €31.4 million.

General Manager, Mark Nolan said that 2023 was “a record-breaking year” for the business in terms of revenues.

He said, “The real eye opener was the average room rate, which was very strong”.

He said that during the high season this ranges from €790 per night for entry level accommodation to €3,500 for your “top, top suites”.

Room income last year increased by 15pc to €17.45 million while food and drink income increased marginally to €10.73m.

The new accounts show that pre-tax profits last year declined by 32 per cent from €2.45 million to €1.66 million.

However, Chief Financial Officer, Joe Hughes said that underlying profit is up strongly as the 2022 profits taking into account €2 million in Covid-19 related grants which did not re-occur last year.

Mr Nolan said that revenues for 2024 will be boosted by the opening of the Dromoland Lodge which is a five bedroomed house on the estate.

He said that Dromoland Lodge can cost guests €5,500 per night to €32,000 per week to rent out.

Mr Nolan said that the response to the new product “has been beyond our wildest dreams. It only went to market in May and in July we had 85 per cent occupancy”.

He said, “It is a stunning property and is for people who want to experience everything that the estate has to offer and they have their own added privacy”.

Mr Nolan said that he has made contact with Clare County Council’s department to present plans for accommodation expansion at the castle resort.

He said that one of the options is to dust off old plans for a scheme of golf course homes in the estate.

He said that Dromoland has spent €10 million on the property in the past two years and plans to invest another €5 million next year.

Mr Nolan said that at high season Dromoland and the Inn at Dromoland employ 450 people.

Payroll costs were last year up from €12.39 million to €13.4 million and Mr Nolan said that the January increase to €13.50 in the minimum wage “will hit us hard”.

He said that the business placed great emphasis on staff welfare and he said, “Keeping our people is key because to train them to our level, we just can’t let them walk out the door and we will do everything we can to retain them”.

He said that a 44 per cent increase in construction makes it incredibly expensive to construct stand-alone accommodation blocks for staff but said that 78 staff are accommodated at the Inn at Dromoland in repurposed rooms there.

The profit last year takes account of non-cash depreciation costs of €3.03m.

Shareholder funds totalled €24.78m at the end of December last. Cash funds halved from €6.46m to €3.1m.

Unlocking the Value and Securing Our Future

MEMBERS’

INFORMATION MEETINGS

Kerry Co-op has reached agreement with Kerry Group plc on the terms of a proposed phased buyout of Kerry Dairy Ireland by the Co-op while also releasing €1.4bn worth of Kerry Group plc shares directly into the hands of members to hold or sell at a time of their choosing.

Following its announcement on 5th November, Kerry Co-op has organised a number of information meetings to be held in various locations over the coming weeks. All Shareholders are encouraged to attend these information meetings so they can gain an understanding of the proposed transaction and what it means for them. Questions will be addressed from the floor at each meeting and the intention is that eligible voting shareholders will be in a position to make an informed decision at the Special General Meeting to be held on 16th December.

news@clareecho.ie

The role of leaders in fostering a safe and inclusive workplace

IN THE last two articles, we delved into the importance of organisations being proactive in preventing workplace bullying and harassment.

We explored the legal implications, guidelines, and preventive measures to curb these unpleasant behaviours. However, one crucial question remains: Who is responsible for ensuring these measures are effectively implemented?

The answer lies with the leaders within the organisation.

When we say “leaders,” this isn’t limited to the Founders or CEOs. It extends to anyone who holds a position of responsibility, driving a function or managing a group of people. Leadership at all levels plays a pivotal role in shaping a culture where safety, inclusivity, and mutual respect thrive.

As organisations strive to foster such an environment, it becomes essential to train, empower, and enable leaders to act as culture catalysts. Here’s how leaders can ensure a workplace free from bullying and harassment:

1. Staying Informed Leaders need to stay updated on key legislative amendments and relevant incidents in the countries of their operation and in the industry. Being informed enables them to anticipate potential challenges within their organization and address the issues proactively and to avoid keep their organisation compli

ance ready. To keep yourself updated, you may refer government websites, subscribe to HR newsletters or plan for quarterly consulting session with a HR Consulting agency like ERA Ltd.

2. Developing and Updating Policies

Leaders must take the initiative to create robust policies aimed at preventing workplace bullying and harassment. These policies should be regularly updated based on the inputs received from any of the above suggested methods and align with evolving legislation and the organisation’s unique needs.

3. Communicating and Implementing Policies

Effective leadership involves clear communication of policies and any amendments. Leaders must ensure these policies and its implications are understood and implemented consistently across the organization at all levels.

In our 3 decades of experience, we have seen many companies having excellent policies but they fail in communication and implementation, which leads to many unwanted issues. You are required to have and to issue a Bullying, Harassment & Sexual Harassment policy. Remember prevention is key!

4. Leading by Example

The phrase “walk the talk” is particularly relevant here. Leaders must embody the values they wish to see within their teams. Demonstrating respect, fairness, and accountability sets a strong precedent and gives a motivation and need for the team to reflect on those values.

5. Facilitating Awareness Training

Regular training programs and refreshers should be conducted to build awareness among the employees about acceptable workplace behaviour, organizational policies and values, do’s and don’ts and the escalationmechanism.

6. Monitoring Workplace Behaviour

Though we have a good policy, ample training programs, beside all that the Leaders must also remain vigilant and observant of team dynamics. If any deviations from acceptable behaviour are noticed, a leader should intervene promptly to address the situation and make corrective actions.

7. Acting as Coaches and Mentors

Besides being an enabler and a watchdog, a leader should play the role of a coach and mentor, guiding team members toward fostering a culture of safety and inclusion. Encouraging open conversations and reinforcing positive behaviours are key focus in this process.

8. Building Trust

A safe workplace is one where employees feel confident that there are guidelines for safety, their concerns will be taken seriously and a solution will be provided. Leaders must cul-

tivate a culture where employees trust that their problems, opinions, and emotions will be listened to and not just heard.

9.

Investigating and Resolving Issues

Leaders should remain unbiased and sharp to details while handling any problems relating to a harassment or bullying, leaders need to develop the skill to investigate complaints, find the root cause, have a structured and unbiased system to resolve such issues and ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the organisation’s culture. ERA has developed a series of workshops to train front line management & Senior management in how to conduct investigations.

Our workshops have equipped many of our clients with the know how and confidence to ensure they carry out investigations in line with fair and natural

justice, the Code of practice and their polices.

In conclusion, leaders hold the responsibility and power to transform workplace culture. By taking proactive steps and embracing the roles outlined above, they can create an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and empowered. Leadership is not just about driving business outcomes; it’s also about shaping a workplace where individuals can thrive without fear or prejudice. When leaders act as custodians of culture, they not only protect their teams but also contribute to the overall success and reputation of the organisation. After all, a safe workplace is the foundation of a successful business.

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

Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Only applications completed online will be accepted.

• Assistant Chief Fire Officer

Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday,| 19th December 2024.

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

Scríobh chugainn as Gaeilge más fearr leat.

lGRAPHIC: Why psychological safety matters in the workplace

20 years of smiles at Ennis Orthodontic

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

ENNIS Orthodontic Practice is preparing to celebrate 20 years in business.

In 2004, Dr Jeeves Kochhar established the first full-time orthodontic clinic in County Clare, a leap of faith that has been fully embraced by the public as Ennis Orthodontic celebrates two decades in operation this Christmas.

Founded on a patient-centred ethos of transparency and care, the practice was born at Westgate Business Park on December 17, 2004 where Dr Jeeves and one other staff member served the public from their two surgeries.

Today, Dr Jeeves has five surgeries at his premises and his team of 14 are at the forefront of the orthodontic industry, using the most advanced technologies and treatments in helping the people of Clare and beyond achieve their healthiest smiles.

Dr Jeeves tells The Clare Echo that a dedication to patient care and the most modern equipment underlines the success enjoyed by Ennis Orthodontic Practice.

“Technology has moved on and the practice has moved with it,” Dr Jeeves explains. This is exemplified by the onsite CBCT scanner, a state-ofthe-art scanning machine used to produce precise, high-resolution 3D images of a patient’s mouth including the teeth, jaws, soft tissue and bones – all with high levels of detail. This technology also enables Dr Jeeves to create a mould digitally. “Technology-wise, it’s improved with diagnosis, treatment, deliv-

ery to the patient, and made the patient journey way nicer as a result of that.”

The married father-of-one explains that he has invested in the top-of-the range equipment to provide patients with additional functionality. “It allows me to explain things. I can relate explanations to the X-rays so the explanation becomes better. We work a lot on the psychology of how we treat kids and we empower kids to take responsi-

bility for their treatment, so we can really engage them with the help of these 3D scans. When I carry out a consultation, I speak to the kid, rather than the parent, because I need them to trust me to know they are with me and we’re going on this journey together. That’s why I think we get really good results.”

This level of expertise offered at Ennis Orthodontic Practice underlines the importance of being treated by a registered

specialist orthodontist.

Dr Jeeves also proudly supports community events, counting his three years as main sponsor of the Pakie Ryan charity run among his fondest memories in business. Ennis Orthodontic mainly attracts patients from across County Clare, along with counties Galway, Mayo and Limerick due to the convenient location and free parking amenities at Ennis Orthodontic Practice. Dr Jeeves

says, “I’ve been really lucky and very well supported here. There was never a 5-day practice in Ennis and I was lucky that I tapped into that 20 years ago.”

At Ennis Orthodontic, there are no hidden costs and all patients pay the same fee for their braces treatment, regardless of how long the journey takes. Jeeves explains, “I don’t take lightly how much parents are paying. That’s why I do one fee for every child irrespective of how long a case takes as I don’t want the parents to stress about anything.”

In Dr Jeeves’ office, proudly displayed are hundreds of thank you cards from former patients with photos from the most important events in their lives, such as wedding photos and graduation photos. Reflecting on 20 years in business, Dr Jeeves admits he enjoys “every single day because when we take the braces off, we get immense satisfaction. There’s a real satisfaction in knowing, we made a difference in someone’s life.”

Ennis Orthodontic Practice are planning a surprise for patients in the coming weeks to mark the landmark anniversary on December 17.

For more, visit online at ennisbraces.com/ or follow Ennis Orthodontic Clinic on social media.

l Dr Jeeves Kochhar with his team celebrating Clare’s All-Ireland win this year and (below) Ennis Orthodontic Practice at Westgate Business Park in Ennis

One-point loss for Tones

MUNSTER INTERM' CLUB FOOTBALL SEMI-FINAL

Aherlow 1-06 Wolfe Tones 0-08

Venue: Lattin

Compiled by Michael McCarthy

STORY OF THE GAME

AHERLOW

Frees for: 21 (9/12)

Wides: 9 (7/2)

Spread of scorers: 3

Scores from play: 1-2

Top scorer: Barry Grogan (0-5 4f) WOLFE TONES Frees for: 16 (8/8) Wides: 2 (1/1) Spread of scorers: 6 Scores from play: 0-6 Top scorer: Craig Riordan (0-3 2f)

REFEREE: David Murnane (Cork)

Soccer: Clare's big three in Junior Cup action

THREE Clare clubs are in action of the fourth round of the FAI Junior Cup this Sunday, writes Seamus Hayes.

Success in the FAI Junior Cup is a target for every junior soccer team in the country and Clare clubs are no different.

On Sunday Clare’s current ‘big three’ will see action in the fourth round of this prestigious competition and all three will have home advantage.

Newmarket Celtic, the only Clare club to have won this competition, will welcome Limerick side Mungret to McDonough Memorial Park.

Avenue United who got to the final of this competition back in the early nineties, will have St. Francis from the Leinster senior league as visitors to Roslevan at 2pm.

Meanwhile Bridge United will have Dublin side Crumlin as visitors to Sixmilebridge. The Clare side will be without Alan Mulready who is away with work while Kyle Kirby is ruled out through injury. There are doubts about the fitness of Ger Myles, Filip Mostowy and Aidan Moloney.

Bridge manager, Mark Culbert told The Clare Echo that Myles and Mostowy “are dealing with injuries at the moment but we are hopeful they will be fit in time to line out”.

“There is always excitement about playing in the FAI cup. It’s great to have a home draw and we expect there will be a big crowd at the game. We have had a good start to the season and we are looking forward to putting in a big performance. Crumlin, like all Dublin clubs, are a strong side and they will be favourites to progress. They get to the latter stages of this competition most seasons. Newmarket beat them at the quarter final stage two years ago. It’s a big challenge for us but we are looking forward to it”, the

For the first time this season Avenue United will have a full strength squad to select from will all panellists fit.

Having being out of action for the past six weeks, key player Elias Kunz is fit again and he is expected to be in the side which will be led by Ronan Kerin who, last week, played for the Irish Defence Forces team in their fixture against their English counterparts, a game played in Belfast. The Avenue side will also include the Clare Oscar Traynor team captain Conor Mullen.

“Our opponents had a great season last season but they have lost a number of that squad and they are currently in a re-building process. Since the FAI draw for this round was made they have had two wins and a draw. We know they will be strong but home advantage is huge. They play on astro so playing on grass will be a little different for them”, according to Avenue United manager David Russell (pictured).

Continuing the Avenue manager said “our aim every year is to be still involved in all competitions into the New Year. It’s a big week for us as we will be in action in the Munster Junior Cup on Sunday week when we will also have home advantage as we face Askeaton in a game in the last 32 of that competition”.

Like Avenue United, previous winners of this competition Newmarket Celtic, can call on a full strength squad for Sunday’s clash with Mungret. “For the first time this yeAr we are injury free and we have a full hand to select from. For the past few weeks the lack of Sunday action allowed us the opportunity to watch Mungret. They beat us in the Munster junior cup last year so we will have that in the back of our minds on Sunday. They have new management this year with Paul Danagher in charge. They are defensively strong and we know exactly what is coming down the tracks”, Newmarket Celtic manager Eoin O’Brien told The Clare Echo this week.

Goalkeeper Shane Cusack along with Harvey Cullinan and Tadhg Noonan who were nursing knocks last week, are fit again and ready for action on Sunday

“This is a fantastic competition and, naturally, we are anxious to progress. We were fortunate to get over Killarney Celtic in the first round. Sometimes you need a bit of luck to get through games,” the secondary school teacher said.

“Newmarket won this competition two years ago and we still have a few from that team. Overall, it’s a new squad and we have brought through a number of young players. We want to be competitive and it would be great to keep going in the competition,” O’Brien concluded.

Éire Óg had 'more to give' in Munster

MUNSTER SNR FOOTBALL CHMP'SHIP SEMI-FINAL

Loughmore-Castleiney 3-09 ÉIRE ÓG 2-07

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

LOUGHMORE-CASTLEINEY

Frees For: 16 (7/9)

Wides: 8 (3/5)

Scores from Play: 3-7

Spread of Scorers: 8

Top Scorers: Liam McGrath (0-3); Brian McGrath, Ciaran Connolly, Phillip O’Connell (1-0 each)

Yellow Cards: Ciaran Connolly (20), John Ryan (24), Noel McGrath (27), Liam McGrath (28)

Red Card: Mentor Own Kick-Outs won: 111 from 18 (61%)

ÉIRE ÓG

Frees For: 15 (11/4)

Wides: 9 (6/3)

Scores from Play: 1-5

Spread of Scorers: 4

Top Scorer: Mark McInerney (1-4) Yellow Cards: Ciaran Russell (22), Niall McMahon (30), Dean Ryan (52), Aaron Fitzgerald (52), Darren O’Neill (56) Red Card: Mentor Own Kick-Outs won: 14 from 19 (74%)

REFEREE: Brendan Griffin (Kerry)

ÉIRE ÓG had “more to give” in the Munster club senior football championship, writes Seamus Hayes.

Clare’s champions were knocked out in the provincial semi-final for the third time in four seasons after

losing to Tipperary winners, Loughmore-Castleiney. There is a bright future for Eire Og football according to key player Ciaran Russell.

Speaking moments after bowing out of the Munster senior club championship before an attendance of 928 at the semi-final stage at

Cusack Park on Sunday, he didn’t hide his disappointment at the result. “Yes they (Loughmore-Castleiney) were hungry today but so were we. They got a few breaks and we probably didn’t defend as well as we wanted to. They are a good team but we have to hold our hands up. The best of luck to them in the final”.

Ciaran continued, “they were strong on the break and they won a lot of the 50/50 balls. Sometimes the bounce of the ball just isn’t with you. Look we can have no complaints, no excuses. We had the best team we could have had on the field. We all tried as hard as we could but things didn’t go for us on the day”.

Reflecting on the season, the former inter-county defender said, “it’s been a good year. When we sit back and

reflect, it’s been good and we are absolutely delighted to have won the Clare championship. We are on the road a little longer and we probably felt that we had a little more to give in this competition. Unfortunately this is the third time in recent years that we have fallen at the same hurdle but, look, we got back up before and went again”

Concluding he said “it’s all about finding lads for the future and we have had plenty of them training all year with us. There is a bright future and there is still a lot of life in the old lads as well. There are great people involved. We will regroup and go again next year”.

l Niall Fitzgerald of Wolfe Tones Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Éire Óg's Manus Doherty

Photo by Mike Brennan

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Bridge United manager added. They face Clonmel next weekend in the last 32 of the Munster Junior Cup.

Cross country success for Clare

IT CAN be argued that Clare athletes are worth their weight in medals after a busy two weeks of competitions. In the weekend before last, delegations representing Clare competed in both the all ireland cross country championships in CastleIrvine estate, Co. Fermanagh and in the British and Ireland international cross country championships in Belfast.

Niall Murphy of Ennis Track took home the silver medal in the men's senior category, second only to the winner, Keelan Kilrehil of MOy Valley AC. Murphy, while second, won the mens under 23 category and also brought home a gold medal for his category. Murphy beat last year's champion Cormac Dalton of Mulingar Harriers who was positioned in third.

Niall Murphy would go on to lead his team of townies to a bronze team medal in the senior team category in Fermanagh. Joining Murphy on the Townie team was Mark Hanrahan, Dylan Casey and Barry Conway.

In Belfast, Annemarie Connellan of En-

nis Track took home a gold medal as part of the women’s over 50s team representing Ireland. Sharon Rynne of Kilmurry Ibrikane North Clare AC brought home not one but two gold medals in the women's over 35 category. Rynne was not only a part of the gold winning team representing the country but she was also the first lady across the line in the race.

In the mens, Kenneth Rodgers of St. John’s took home a bronze medal in the mens over 35s team. Also representing ireland were Michelle O’Mahony and James Kenny of Kilmurry Ibrickane North Clare AC

More recently in the weekend just gone, Kilmurry Ibrickane North Clare AC and Ennis Track AC wasted no time in attempting to keep the success going. In Two Mile Borris co.Tipperary, the Munster athletics masters cross country championships were held.

In the men's race, Jame Kenny and Tom Mackey of Kilmurry Ibrickane North

Clare came first and third in the over 65s category respectively . John O Gorman of the same club would go on to take second in the over 55s category. Thomas Garrihy took bronze in the overall race.

As a club, KI-NC AC took gold in the over 65s category, followed by the townies of Ennis Track AC with second.

Overall, Ennis track placed second in the men's team event. Patrick Morrissey of Ennis track also brought home a bronze in the over 50s category.

In the women's event, Annemarie Connellan and Becky Coughlan of Ennis Track AC won silver and bronze respectively. Connellan would also bring home gold for the over 50s category, followed by Geraldien Fahy of Ennis Track AC . Ms Coughlan on the other hand brought home silver for the over 40s. In the over 55s Aisling Power took gold. Michelle O Mahony won the gold medal in the over 60s. Ennis Track took the bronze medal for the overall team event.''

Community Games officers elected

St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games held their Annual General Meeting recently in Treacy’s West County Hotel.

Sixteen Areas from across the county were represented by their delegates.

President Cecilia O’Sullivan in welcoming everyone said it is a time for reflection, celebration and anticipation of great things to come.

She thanked all the County officers, Sub committees, Co-ordinators, Officials, Managers, Coaches, Referees and volunteers who have worked tirelessly demonstrating unwavering commitment to the organisation over the year.

She thanked main Sponsor St Francis Credit Union for

their continued support. All the officers gave a detailed report with the Treasurer highlighting the Income & Expenditure over the year. Each reiterated the Presidents thanks to all those who help make Community Games the great organisation it is.

The following officers did not seek re-election i.e. – Treasurer, Registrar, Vice Chairperson, Assistant Treasurer.

ELECTED

OFFICERS

President – Cecilia O’Sullivan, Ennis St John’s Vice President – Graham Meakins, Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry Chairperson – Rob Stephen, Shannon Secretary – Maurette Crowley, Doora/Barefield Ass. Secretary – Nicole Kelly, Newmarket-on-Fergus

Minute Secretary – Paddy Vaughan, Crusheen/Ballinruan/ Tubber

Registrar – Michelle Normoyle, Coolmeen/Cranny

Public Relations Officer – Mary Phelan, Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry

Games Director – Sarah O’Donoghue, Newmarket-on-Fergus Ass. Games Director – Gemma O’Gorman, Kilmurry Mc Mahon/ Labbasheeda

National Delegate – Graham Meakins, Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry

Munster Delegate – Deirdre Conlan, SIxmilebridge/Kilmurry

Munster Delegate – Mary Phelan, Sixmilebridge/KIlmurry

Youth Officer – Sinead Murray, Quin/Clooney.

Hopes are high that all positions will be filled at the next county meeting along, there will also be elections to several sub committees.

MUNSTER ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

The Annual General Meeting of Munster Community Games will take place this this Sunday 1st December in Shannon Springs Hotel, Shannon, commencing at 1.30pm with teas and coffee with meeting at 2pm. There will be delegates from all Munster counties. This year it is County Clare’s turn to host the Munster team events both Indoor and Outdoor.

IMPORTANT DATES

Sun 1st December – Munster AGM Shannon Springs Hotel, Shannon Tue 3rd December – County Meeting, Treacy’s West County Hotel, Ennis @ 8pm Tue 31st December – Area Insurance runs out

Ennis seniors hammer Tralee

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

Under 16 Boys: Kilfeacle RFC 7 – 19 Ennis RFC

Ennis U16 boys won for the second time in a row with a 7-19 win against Kilfeacle.

After conceding an early converted try, Ennis started to impose themselves for some good phase play, allowing Evan Cusack to score a try, converted by Tadhg Bane. The score at halftime was 7-7.

During the second half, the Clare boys won the kick-off and made 80 yards before Cusack went over for his second try under the posts. They managed to go wide from the kick-off and burst through their opponents’ defence where Bane went over in the corner. Kilfeacle tried hard, but James Nihill's two great line-out steals kept the final score at 7-19.

Ennis’ best players on the day were Harry O’Donoghue, Tadhg Bane, Evan Cusack, James Moloney, and Oisín Considine.

Senior Men 1st XV Division 2: Ennis RFC 57 – 19 Tralee RFC

After a tight first half, Ennis’ senior men’s team let loose against Tralee at home to win 57-19.

Indeed, Tralee scored the game's first try from an Ennis goal-line kick however Ennis soon replied with a penalty from Dylan Kelly when Tralee were off-side. Keelan Butler then scored Ennis’ first try after some good work at the line-out, converted by Dylan Kenny, to put Ennis 10-7 ahead.

Errors from both sides led to a period of scrums until another goal-line kick from Ennis had Tralee on the attack and they scored a converted try. Again, Ennis were quick to reply. Breaks from Brendan Keane and Dale Watson made ground, and the ball was spread to the wing. An exchange of passes occurred between Cian Guilfoyle and Dylan Kenny for Guilfoyle to score under the posts, converted by Kenny. The score was 17-14 at halftime.

Ennis took complete control in the second half of this home game, with tries from Mattie McNamara, Oisín Mangan (3 tries), Cian Guilfoyle and Joe Connaughton. Tralee could only add on one more score, giving Ennis the resounding 57-19 win.

Ennis: Bence Benko, Jack Colleran, Ruairi Quinlan, Cormac Browne (vice-captain), Matthew McNamara, Oscar O’Gorman, Dale Watson, Keelan Butler, Calum Barrett, Oisín Mangan (captain), Jack Dillion, Joe Connaughton, Brendan Keane, Cian Guilfoyle, and Dylan Kenny. The substitutes were Joey Keane, Ryan Murphy, Cian Enright, Cillein Mullins, Michael McNeilis, and Jack Scahill.

Senior Men 2nd XV Gleeson League: Ennis RFC 17 – 26 Richmond RFC

Ennis’ 2nds faced a formidable Richmond side in losing 17-26 at the weekend.

With many players unavailable, it looked like it was going to be an uphill battle, however, the Ennis men rose to the challenge.

Richmond scored an early try, but Ennis responded with a try from Jonathan O’Donoghue. Soon after, Frank Coffey was denied a try by the referee, giving Richmond the opportunity to score just before halftime. The halftime score was left at 14-5.

Ennis battled hard in the second half and Cilléin Mullins finished off two terrific team tries. This left Ennis within striking distance with five minutes to go, but unfortunately, Richmond were able to get a crucial turnover and win the game with 17-26.

Senior Women Division 1 Cup SemiFinal: Ennis/ Kilrush 41 – 17 Shannon

Ennis/Kilrush are on track to repeat as Division 1 Cup champions.

They started the game strongly, playing in the opposition’s 22 and were rewarded for their pressure when number eight Caoilfhionn Morrissey opened the scoring with a strong carry and a touchdown to the right of the posts. Shannon responded with a try before Morrissey added another try in a mirror attempt of her first. Shortly after, captain Micaela Glynn capitalised on a period of pressure in the opposition's half and scored another try. This brought the halftime score to 15 – 5.

Ennis/Kilrush were much the stronger side in the second half with scores from fullback Orna Moynihan (3 tries) and second row Nell Walsh.

Ennis: Annie Lynch, Meadbh O’Driscoll, Ciara Coughlan, Laura Cooney, Nell Walsh, Micaela Glynn (captain), Eileen Keane, Caoilfhionn Morrissey, Aishling Browne, Aoibhinn O’Loughlin (vice-captain), Emma Keane, Saskia Morrissey, Anastasia Balmefrezol, and Orna Moynihan. The substitutes were Emily Anglim, Saoirse Reidy, Aoife McMahon, Emily Fanning, Amy Flavin, Jennifer Weston, Lyndsay Clarke, and Ellis O’Flaherty.

Additional Results: U13 Boys North Munster League: Young Munsters 0 – 30 Ennis

Niall Murphy, Keelan Kilrehill, Cormac Dalton

Perri Williams Photography

by PÁDRAIG

I AM on my flight home from another unforgettable trip to the sunny tropical island of Tenerife and managed to squeeze in some golf while I was there. My two favourite golf courses on the island are Abama (which I wrote about last week) and Buenavista.

I first played Buenavista in January of this year and I returned for the third time to play it again this week which, I think, indicates how good a course it is when you return to play it three times in the same calendar year. The drive itself to Buenavista is 55km from Adeje however it does take just over an hour due to the severe winding mountainous roads you have to travel to get there. The roads themselves are surfaced as good as our motorways in Ireland, however for about 45 minutes you are turning bend after bend after bend. On this route the views

are just breathtaking so although you might feel slightly sea sick on arrival to Buenavista the experience and scenery is worth the journey.

The course is situated adjacent to the Atlantic Ocean so there are stunning views throughout your round.

The clubhouse is located at the highest section if the course and it has panoramic glass windows facing the course with the Atlantic Ocean as a backdrop, so it is well worth going to the thirdfloor bar & restaurant before and after your game to enjoy the views while you sample some of the local cuisine.

The course itself is quite friendly and not overly long from the normal yellow tees however from the white tee's it is a different animal with the likes of the 15th hole a Par 3 playing over 240 yards downhill.

The condition of the course was again to a very high standard and the greens were very true and fast, running comfortably at about 10 - 10.5 on the stem meter.

Christmas singles in

East Clare

by Seamus Hayes

news@clareecho.ie

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB

COLM Kelly was the winner of the men's club Christmas open singles competition at East Clare last week with 42 points.

He had two to spare over Stephen Garvey while Eoin Magill won the gross with 31 points.

In the senior men’s competition last week the winners were Terry Coughlan, Michael Drew and Brian Torpey from Donal Fleming, Sean Ahern and Denis Corcoran with third spot filled by Pat McNamara, Chris Davis and Jim Bradley.

SHANNON GOLF CLUB:

The first turkey competition of the season for Shannon ladies resulted in victory for Aine Twomey (9) with 29 points. She had one to spare over Marie McCoy (51). They were followed by Dee O'Connell (42) with 27 points, Linda Boland (21) with 26 points, Joan Hoctor (23) with 26 points, Frieda Cummins (45, also with 26 points and Sandra Ferguson (23 with) 25 points.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB:

Last week’s senior ladies outing at Ennis was won by Pat Lacy, Eileen Corry, Alice D'Arcy and Martina Corbett with second place filled by Carmel Verling, Geraldine O'Mahony and Maeve O'Grady.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

This week’s winner of the Christmas turkey competition for men at Kilrush was Bernard Coleman (8) with 31 points.

There are plenty of slopes on some of the greens so you have to make sure to pay attention especially around the location of the pin position.

For instance, I hit a 3 iron to the Par 3 17th which landed two foot short of the green and for my second shot I hit what I taught was a good chip with my 7 iron which looked like it rested just two feet shy of the pin, but my ball in fact ended up rolling back towards me and ended up about 18 feet back down the ridge below the pin's location, leaving me with my only frustrating bogie of my round.

So, paying attention to the slopes near and around the pin is key to making sure you don't find a similar faith.

My favourite holes at Buenavista are the 10th and 13th both are Par 5s which are located adjacent and run parallel to each other.

Both tee boxes are located just underneath the front of the clubhouse on the highest section of the course, so the views from both these tee

boxes are some of the best views Tenerife has to offer.

The fairways are several stories below the tee box and you can see both greens

sitting out on the edge of the Atlantic way below you in the distance. Although they are close to 500 yards in length, they both play a lot less due

to the severity of the downhill slopes giving you almost a certain birdie opportunity. When you are hitting your approach shot to these greens you are trying not to be distracted by the crashing waves that are breaking on the rocks at the rear of the green.

Buenavista Golf Club definitely boasts the best views of any of the five courses I have played on the island of Tenerife, not only have you the amazing views over the Atlantic but you also have the stunning vast mountain range at the opposite end so every hole on this course is filled with amazing natural scenery of Tenerife.

This course has to be on your bucket list of courses to play on the island and is well worth the journey over the mountains to reach the stunning Buenavista golf club. Green fee rates run from €80 - €140 with the higher prices which run from November to March when the demand is at its highest.

Friday night double for Ennis syndicate

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

THE CONCLUDING A1 graded 525 yards contest was the Friday night feature at Galway Greyhound Stadium.

As the traps rose the litter brothers Sir Rodger and Rinnwood Leo were both away well and together with Laois Lightening led the charge towards the opening bend ahead of Colossal Venture and Lissatouk Gena. Rounding the first there was some bunching among the leaders as Sir Rodger cornered in front as Lissatouk Gena and Colossal Venture tracked him through along the inner. Racing down the back Sir Rodger led by over a length as Lissatouk Gena tried to close along the inner.

Approaching the penultimate corner the red jacketed Colossal Venture poked her way through along the rails to join issue and as they began the swing for home the daughter of Droopys Sydney and Droopys Lullaby kicked on and striding out well to the line she put four lengths between herself and Lissatouk Gena at the line in 29.33 and complete a great night for the Colossal Syndicate.

The Colossal Double was initiated in the opening contest the first Semi Final of the Book Your Christmas Party Novice 350 Stake in which Taurus Tickle was smartly into stride on the wide outside and racing towards the opening bend she led from Drombeg Bailey and Noelles Qipco.

Approaching the turn Drombeg Bailey joined issue with Taurus Tickle but both runners ran slightly wide and this allowed the improving Colossal Trilogy to close in third place.

Off the home bend Drombeg Bailey still led but the Colossal Syndicate owned Colossal Trilogy (Malachi & Droopys Megan) switched outside and cut him down close home to prevail by a neck in 18.92. The Colossal Syndicate members are Tom Warren, Patrica Gallery, Niall Warren and Leona Ryan who is also trainer. Badly impeded on her two most recent runs, the Thomas Keane of Kilmihil-owned Glynnscross Razz made no mistake in getting off the mark at the sixth attempt in the A7 graded 525 yards contest as she made all the running to defeat Bumblebee Spurs by two lengths at the line in 29.54. The winner was away smartly and led Bumblebee Spurs and Optic Kenny by two lengths rounding the opening bend. Racing along the back the lead extended to four lengths as the front pair raced clear. Turning for home Glynnscross Buzz(Broadstrand Bono-Glynnscross Judy) was home and hosed as she stayed on strongly to the line.

Racing towards the opening bend in the A6 graded contest Konfu Tommy and Bumblebee Diva disputed the lead with Fortune Sydney and Fast Fit Max also close up as they negotiated the opening two bends. Turning down

the back the Donal Cooney and Pat O’Donoghue of Broadford owned Konfu Tommy had a two length advantage over Bumblebee Diva and this lead more than doubled as they passed halfway. Exiting the back straight Konfu Tommy (Concorde Jungle & Here Comes Sally) looked in command but he was all out close home to repel the challenge of Bumblebee Diva by a neck in 29.51.

The Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Kiltymon Ninja (Good News & Kiltymon Pearl) registered his maiden success at the tenth attempt in this A5 graded contest as he made just about all the running to defeat Return Visit by a length and a half in 29.55. The Maiden Voyage Syndicate owned winner trapped well and led from Lallys Legacy in his outside racing towards the opening bend.

Rounding the bend, the leader tracked well and racing towards halfway was joint and briefly headed by Lallys Legacy. Exiting the back straight though Kiltymon Ninja kicked two lengths clear and then stayed on well to the line as Return Visit stayed on late.

The A4 graded 550 yards contest produced a thrilling battle with the Martin Griffin of Lissycasey owned Uphill Climb gradually gaining the better of Drombeg Wild close home to prevail by a length in Rossies Flossy showed pace towards the outer racing towards the opening bend with Glamorous Woohoo and Drom-

beg Wild also to the fore as the approached the opening bend. Rounding the bend Drombeg Wild tracked well along the inner to join Rossies Flossy as Uphill Climb ran round the outside to close passing halfway. Exiiting the back the trio were lined across the track with Drombeg Wild kicking for home rounding the home bend but Uphill Climb (Broadstrand Bono-Brickhill Sharon) gradually wore her down close home.

There were no fewer than six sweepstake finals on offer at Limerick Greyhound Stadium on Sunday evening as the local GOBA hosted a Christmas Family Fun day. The performance of the night came from the Paraic Campion-trained Highview Ben as he made light work of his rivals in the final of the Limerick & Clare GOBA Mini Open 525.

Owned by the VHR Syndicate, who were double-handed in the final, ‘Ben’ went to traps as a generous 3/1 chance and he pinged out from trap three to excel brilliantly on the run-up. In truth, once doing so it was lights out for his rivals as he quickly turned a four length advantage into six lengths down the back straight. Setting a blistering gallop, the son of Pat C Sabbath and Highview Ivy was flawless thereafter as he duly made it back-to-back wins in crossing the line four lengths clear of Ballygibba Sam in second. An exceptional display from Campion’s charge, the time was a swift 28.44.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, ANNAGH, MILTOWN

MALBAY, CO. CLARE, V95 P263

Take notice that P. O’Looney & A. Garrihy intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain their existing garage as constructed and for permission to construct a new extension to the garage consisting of a home office and store / drying room along with associated site works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKROE, KILFENORA, CO

CLARE V95 C1X0

Retention permission is being sought by Brian Mc Grath to retain the dwelling house, shed, septic tank and percolation area on their present site 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 of €20.00 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without con-

ditions or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

SHANNACOOL, KILDYSART, CO

CLARE V95DW20

Take notice that Sinead Allis intends to apply for permission to retain the extensions to the side and rear of the existing cottage and for permission to upgrade the existing septic tank & 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

I, Daniel Kelly, am applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Lisheen, Ballynacally, Co Clare

Permission for change of house design from that previously permitted under planning reference 20900 (erect pro-

posed dwelling house, foul sewer treatment plant, percolation area and new site entrance) together with all associated ancillary and incidental works

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BALLYFAUDEEN, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE

Take notice that S. Gornik intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter and extend his existing dwelling house and to install a new proprietary wastewater system along with ancillary site works at the above address.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or obser-

vation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL BALLINLACKAN, MOHER, LISCANNOR

Take notice that Brendan Considine intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of an extension to existing slatted unit & 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 SPANISH POINT, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO CLARE

Take notice that Siobhain Mahon intends to apply for permission to build a new

dwelling, garage and install a waste water treatment system & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CHURCH STREET, MOY MORE, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Carl Manzor and Paula Kelleher intend to apply for Permission Consequent of Outline Planning Permission (ref: 22417) for development at the above address. The development will consist of the construction of a single storey dwelling, 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 open-

ing 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. HARVEY’S QUAY, AT REAR OF 15 PARNELL STREET, ENNIS, COUNTY CLARE. Take notice that Mr Frank Considine is applying to Clare County Council for permission for change of use from shop as granted under previous permission P97/53, to Laundrette at premises at the rear of 15 Parnell Street, facing onto Harvey’s Quay, Ennis, County Clare. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority 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 CO. COUNCIL CLON ROAD, ENNIS,

CO. CLARE V95 RDDO

Permission for the retention of a new entrance gate to rear of existing dwelling house from Friar’s Close is being sought on behalf of E. Mathews. 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, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND FIRST ANNIVERSARY

We the family of the late James O’Sullivan wish to express our sincere gratitude to all those who sympathised with us and offered their support during this difficult time.

To all those who travelled long distances from around the country and from abroad to be with us, it was very much appreciated. Thanks to those who sent online messages of sympathy and to all those who sent mass cards and floral tributes to express their condolences.

We would also like to convey our heartfelt thanks to all those who participated in providing a guard of honour at the funeral mass.

To James’s many friends, work colleagues, neighbours we thank you for all your kind words and for attending the removal and mass. Sadly missed by loving wife Eileen, son Ian, daughters Edel & Elizabeth, daughter-in-law Karen, partners Patrick & Joe and grandchildren Killian, Emilia, Conor & Evelyn.

A husband, a father, grandfather – loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. Always remembered, although apart, you remain in our memories and live on in our hearts.

ACCOMODATION TO RENT

Reputable Ennis-based company (est. 2003), has an urgent and ongoing requirement to rent accommodation for new professional staff. Eliminate the hassle of advertising and evaluating applicants: call Nick on 0868035570 now, with offers. Immediate response.

New weather shelter/enclosure kits for front and back doors. Package includes four full height part glazed panels + canopy roof. Costing under 2000. An ideal DIY project. For details contact 0871611032.

McMahon, Michael Doonbeg

Dooley, Baby Cushla Kilmihil

FORDE, Timothy Newmarket-on-Fergus

Hayes (née Noonan), Martha Newmarket-on-Fergus

Hayes (née Noonan), Martha Ennis

Henry (née Keehan), Anne Ballinruan

McMahon, Markie (Martin) Clare

Moloney, Thomas Carrigaholt

Recent Deaths

Moloney, Thomas Kilrush

Morrissey (née Griffin), Mary Mullagh

DURACK, MARY Mountshannon

Mullen, Brendan Ennis

Ryan, Francis (Frank) Bridgetown

SHEEHAN, Zoe Sixmilebridge

O’Brien, James Ennis

Rigney, Darragh Kilmihil

Corbett, Rose Shannon

Flynn, Sr. Maura Tulla

Kennedy, Seán Connolly

O’Loughlin (née Phelan), Monica Ennis

O’BRIEN, JERRY Ennis

O’Leary, Killian Inagh

WEATHER SHELTER KITS

The Clare Echo Quiz

1 Who captained the Clare hurling team in 2013?

Tony Kelly

Podge Collins

David Fitzgerld

Pat Donellan

2 What is the most visited tourist attraction in Clare The Burren Craggaunowen

Cliffs Of Moher

Mcdonalds

3 What town is the Birthplace of Brian Boru, High King of Ireland.

Kilfenora

Kilrush

Kilkee

Killaloe

4 Which village in Co. Clare is referred to as the Capital of Traditional Irish Music?

Kilkee Doolin

Kilrush Doonbeg

5 Which one of these players does not play for Ballea?

Niall Deasy

Jack Brown

Martin O Leary

Robin Mounsey

6 In which Clare village was submarine inventor John P Holland born? Fanore Liscannor New Quay

Ballyvaughan

7 Which politician’s grandfather is a former lightkeeper at Loop Head Lighthouse?

Simon Coveney

Tony Mulcahy

Jimmy Deenihan

Enda Kenny

8 What is the largest Parish in County Clare?

Kilmihil

Kilmaley

Feakle

Kilmurry

9 What is the former name for O’Connell Street in Ennis? Jail Street

Turlough Lane Post Office Lane George Street

10 Which president was born in Clare?

Patrick Hillary Eamon DeValera

Michael D Higgins Mary Robinson

Spot the Difference

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the 7 differences

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

World Junior Boxing Champion Cliona Darcy alongside her friends Elisha Quin, Rachel Linnane and Niamh Walsh Photo by Natasha Barton

l QUESTION 9 : What is the former name for O’Connell Street in Ennis?

THURSDAY, MAY 26 2022

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HOW TO PLAY

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

1 Humorous verse form (8)

2 Direction indicator (5)

4 Cut in two (6)

5 Lag behind (5)

6 Game played on a lawn (7)

Sicilian volcano (4)

Vulgar, unrefined (6)

Relating to the home or family (8)

Mozart’s middle name (7)

Waylay (6) 18 Sea trip (6) 20 Legal right to property (5) 22 Doctrine accepted without question (5)

23 Slay (4)