The Clare Echo 29/08/19

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29 Aug 2019

TEENAGE BOYS

IN GRIP OF

GAMBLING CRISIS STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

l PRETTY IN PINK: Clare Rose Victoria O’Connell from Kilrush on the Rose stage on Tuesday night, wearing a dress made by Ennis Bridal Boutique. Victoria revealed her family link to the great Daniel O’Connell speaking to host Dáithi O’Shea.

Photo courtesy Rose of Tralee

T

EENAGE boys in Clare are “particularly” vulnerable to the risks of problem gambling, it has been claimed.

Clare Sinn Féin made the claim in a statement to The Clare Echo, while claiming there has been a complete lack of engagement and regulation.

Clare Sinn Féin PRO Peter Flannigan said problem gamblers in the county are losing a “considerable amount of money each year.”

“Last week the HSE revealed that the number of people receiving treatment on an optional basis for problem gambling has reached record levels.”

“Combined with aggressive marketing, Clare people are more susceptible than ever to developing problem gambling habits, particularly teenage boys and young men.”

Full story PAGE 6

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Index NEWS

Swim ban at Lahinch withdrawn

B

2-13

RONAN SCULLY

15

ENTERTAINMENT

16-17

SHANNON NEWS

18

BUSINESS

19-21

PROPERTY

28-29

MOTORING

30-33

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE 39 The Square, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021

NEWSDESK

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

SALES

Email: ger.naughton@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie

l TASTY: A large crowd gathered for A Taste of Lough Derg Launch at The Lakeside Hotel, Ballina/Killaloe, Co. Clare. Local food producers pictured with members of the Lough Derg Marketing Group pictured with Chairperson Joe MacGrath, as well as food critic Tom Doorley, and Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands team members Tony Dawson and Sarah Mc Carthy.

Photograph: Odhran Ducie

ATHING restrictions at Lahinch have been lifted.

A four day swim ban arose due to an increase in bacteria levels detected in the water. This was caused by excessive rainfall leading to runoff from Inagh River entering Liscannor Bay at the northern end of Lahinch Beach. It was the second swim ban implemented at Lahinch in two weeks.

On Sunday, Clare County Council on the advice of the HSE lifted the restrictions following water testing which indicated “a significant reduction in bacteria levels”. The Blue Flag is flying at the beach once again.

Former Labour Senator John Whelan pointed out over the weekend. “It’s a shame that two of the most popular in Lahinch and Bundoran are closed to the public on the final weekend of the summer holidays due to water quality concerns”.

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4 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Clare and Tipp join forces Less litter in in major Garda shake up Lahinch

PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

lare’s Garda Division is to merge with its Tipperary counterpart as part of widespread changes to the governance structure of An Garda Síochána.

On Thursday morning, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris unveiled a new operating model for the force. Almost 1,800 Gardaí are expected to be on the front-line by the end of 2021 as a result with an increased number of community policing teams to follow.

The restructuring at national, regional and locals levels aims “to provide a greater focus on community policing based on local needs”.

In what is said to be the biggest restructuring of the force in modern times, Garda divisions are being reduced from 28 to 19 with four regions covering the country when there was previously six. The reduction of Divisions will commence on a phased basis with the new structure to be implemented across 2020.

Divisions are to rise in size and will be “operationally autonomous”. Each Division will consist of 600 to 800 personnel.

“This will ensure each Division has the resources and skills to deliver a wider range of community policing and specialist services based on the demand in their area. Regions and divisions will have greater control over how policing is delivered, while working to a corporate framework and oversight from the centre. The focus of the centre will be on supporting regions and divisions,” a spokesperson told The Clare Echo.

From Monday, Clare will be part of the Southern Region alongside Cork West, Cork North, Cork City, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary. One Chief Superintendent each had been designated to Clare and Tipperary, going forward there will be just one person in the role for the two counties.

At present they are both served by seven Superintendents but this figure is to drop to four.

According to An Garda Síochána, there will be more officers “working on the front-line, greater supervision, better resources,

less paperwork and more career opportunities for paper and staff.

It will make best use of an expanding workforce and investment in ICT”.

Community policing teams are to be introduced dedicated to working with communities to identify and tackle problem crimes in their area. Specialised services including economic crime and cyber-crime are to be delivered locally with enhanced investigations of serious crimes and those against the vulnerable such as sexual crime.

2,090 Gardaí were recruited between 2017 and 2019, a further 478 were deployed to the frontline. They expect an additional 1,500 officers will be recruited from now until the end of 2021 with an extra 1,000 to be re-assigned to the front-line.

Commissioner Drew Harris said the model “will increase Garda visibility in communities. It will mean Gardaí at all ranks will have more time to engage with local communities and stakeholders to help keep people safe.

“These changes will deliver a more visible, localised and responsive policing service. What

lCHANGES: Garda Commissioner Drew Harris

won’t change though is the strong connection we have with local communities.”

Both the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland and the Garda Inspectorate have recommended the model which An Garda Síochána maintain “echoes the views of our personnel gathered through extensive consultation. The restructure reflects international policing best practice as well as the realities of modern-day policing in Ireland, the changing nature of crime, and population trends”.

TWO Clare communities have recorded improvements in the latest litter survey by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL).

In the space of twelve months, Doolin Pier has gone from a perceived litter blackspot to ‘moderately littered’. Lahinch Beach now falls into the same category having been labelled ‘littered’ in 2018.

An Taisce’s environmental education unit monitored beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs over the summer months. Their findings on Doolin noted, “This site featured in the media coverage surrounding last year's results due to the very heavy levels of litter. This year things had improved considerably, including the installation of shiny new bins for the separation of litter”.

According to the report on Lahinch, “The overall impression created at Lahinch was a positive one and an improvement on the 2018 survey.

There were several opportunities for separating waste throughout the area surveyed, a welcome addition to any heavily used environment. The main litter items were food wrappers, chewing gum and cigarette butts as well as sea borne items on the north end of the beach e.g. cans and plastic bottles. Some marine litter items included fishing nets, pieces of wood, string and rope”.

Crowe condemns ‘knee jerk’ Moneypoint loss

M

AYOR of Clare Cathal Crowe has expressed his concern at the ESB’s plans to scale back power generation at their Moneypoint plant.

Moneypoint is West Clare’s second largest employer, with a workforce of 194 people. Last July, the ESB announced plans to terminate approximately 100 employee contracts.

“Huge uncertainty hangs over the remainder of the jobs.

This is having a devastating impact on the local area and it all seems to have happened in a rather knee-jerk way.

“The Irish government has a 95 per cent stake in the ESB and I am asking you, as Taoiseach, to show leadership and intervene on the Moneypoint issue.

Ireland needs more infrastructure to be in place before it is in a position to cast aside coal burning power,” he said.

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton replied that the Government does not have any “statutory function” in relation to the West Clare power plant.

“ESB has opened a dialogue with employees on the challenges facing the plant and set out proposals for a reconfigured option for running it. lJOB UNCERTAINTY: The ESB is scaling down Adressing this challenge will Moneypoint’s operations Photo by Pat Kelly take time,” the Minister added.

6

NEWS

VP Pence should see Loop Head

STUART HOLLY

U

editor@clareecho.ie

S VICE President Mike Pence (right) should be encouraged to visit Loop Head as well as Cliffs of Moher, General Election candidate Rita Mc Inerney has said.

Ms McInerney has written to An Tánaiste Simon Coveney in relation to the visit by US Vice President Mike Pence to request that the itinerary take in Loop Head Lighthouse as well as the Cliffs of Moher.

"As this is an official visit, there will be significant focus

by US, international and Irish media. With the US Vice President based at Trump International in Doonbeg, it would be the ideal opportunity for him to also visit Loophead Light-

house.

"As well as the iconic Cliffs of Moher, I believe it is important to highlight the lesser visited though equally beautiful attractions in County Clare.

"The Loop Head Peninsula would benefit hugely in terms of ex- p o s u r e sible fuand posture visitors as a result of the attention at a time when the tourism business in West Clare is significantly down on last year," she said.

Doonbeg’s connection to US President Donald Trump has been well documented but his Vice President is the one

with ancestry in the Long Village.

The VP once tweeted, "On April 11, 1923 an Irish immigrant named Richard Michael Cawley stepped onto Ellis Island and began our family’s story in America.

Because he had the courage

and faith in America that is displayed in all of you, that’s how Michael Richard

Pence became Vice President of the US".

IT is expected that Vice President Pence will stay at Trump International Doonbeg.

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Gambling a huge issue in Clare

CLARE Sinn Féin has said that despite the great work of highlighting the issue of problem gambling, there has been a complete lack of engagement and regulation.

Clare Sinn Féin PRO Peter Flannigan said: "We are in the grip of a problem gambling crisis.

In 2017, industry experts H2 Gambling Capital produced a report into gambling losses across the world and found that Ireland had the highest online gambling losses in the world and the third highest of gambling losses. To put that in real numbers, Irish people lose around €2.2 billion a year gambling or €470 per adult."

"If you consider those Clare people who wouldn't ever lay a bet, that means problem gamblers in the county are losing a considerable amount of money each year."

"Last week the HSE revealed that the number of people receiving treatment on an optional basis for problem gambling has reached record levels."

"Despite what the gambling industry will say, we need stiffer regulation and we need it urgently.

We cannot let 'a bit of craic' blind us to the real hardships caused by problem gambling."

"Getting access to gambling in Clare has never been easier. Bookmaker machines are regularly visited by young men but it is even simpler to take out a mobile phone to see the next five races, GAA scores or play virtual casino games."

"Combined with aggressive marketing, Clare people are more susceptible than ever to developing problem gambling habits, particularly teenage boys and young men."

NEWS 7

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Council deny East Clare tourism 'neglect'

PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

lare County Council has defended its efforts in trying to carve out a balanced spread of tourism across the county.

The Clare Echo recently reported that East Clare experienced its quietest summer in 20 years with local hospitality providers including Teresa Browne of Clareville House claiming Brexit and ‘neglect’ from Clare County Council in failing to develop a main tourist attraction in their area was influential to the decline of visitors.

Prior to going to print, Clare County Council were contacted for comment. In the hours after publication a spokesperson for the local authority referred to the current tourism strategy .

“All four Municipal Districts will feature strongly, including East Clare. This will chart the way forward for tourism.

Clare County Council has established a Tourism Unit and appointed professional staff to support the implementation of this Strategy”.

“Clare has attracted major capital funding for tourism projects in Clare including Holy Island, Vandeleur Walled Garden and Loop Head Lighthouse,” they added.

Responding to a motion from Cllr Cathal Crowe at the July meeting of the local authority, Director of Service, Leonard Cleary said the tourism strategy “will set out a clear strategic direction for tourism growth. The main objective is to highlight actionable recommendations which will guide and stimulate investment and development.

This in return can maximise the potential of tourism to deliver net economic benefit for the communities within which it takes place without negatively impacting the natural, social, cultural and environmental assets which provide the cornerstone of the tourism product here in Clare”.

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8 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

World record breaker ready to hit max speed PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE motorcyclist James Toft smashed world records on his last visit to Pendine Sands, now he’s putting the final touches on preparations for the return trip.

In September last, James recorded the fastest ever land speed time in his class for the half-mile (129mph) and fullmile (169mph). Almost twelve months later, he’s nearly set to go bigger and better in Wales for what he described as “Europe’s mecca for land speed racing”.

His wife Imogene, a native of the UK who went to school in Kilrush, will be looking to create a world record in her class driving her Audi A8 4.2 V8.

Ennis’ Patrick Kelly, a friend of the couple is always seeking to

carve out a world record with his Seemog Buggy.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Toft who grew up in Lahinch and was educated in Ennistymon is buzzing to rev up across the water. “Very excited isn’t the word, everything is piling towards it. Last night, I was out in the shed till 11pm just assembling bits of the bike, Patrick was the same with his buggy, he messaged me at 11:30pm asking was I finished. We just finished Imogene’s car the end of last week, we finally got the exhaust system sorted. It’s snowballed up on us pretty quickly”.

Public interest is always growing for James’ exploits on the bike with dozens of people coming into his place of work, the Photoshop in Ennis, to chat to him about it.

“The support is great, people come into the shop to me. I completely underestimated how

much support I would get, it was in the paper before I went and then when I came back, people went out of their way to come into me to talk to me about it.

“The support I’ve had is great from customers coming in and from businesses, Paddy Kelly are looking after us, ST Auto Centre have been a great help to me, Pat Foudy Tyres, I’ve been ridiculously surprised at how much people wanted to get involved and get on board” Clocking up such speeds on Clare roads would result in any driver losing their licence so practising for the event largely hinges on making alterations Visiting the Pendine Sands is nothing new for James but come September 14 and 15, breaking world-records that he set on board a Suzuki Hayabusa represents a different challenge and one he cannot wait for.

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l BURNING RUBBER: Patrick Kelly, Imogene Toft and James Toft

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Environmental importance is Crystal Clear

O

NE Clare company is benefiting as businesses begin to factor in the environment’s importance to their decision making.

Crystal Clear is a well-established watercooler company which supplies mains-fed watercooler units delivering top quality filtered and chilled water.

The quality of systems installed by the Meelick based company has allowed their reach extend nationally with customers dotted over Ireland availing of their after-sales and support service.

Globally the drive to reduce single-use plastic consumption has not alone helped the environment but also Crystal Clear as more and more businesses opt against the oldstyle water cooler units with the large plastic bottle on top and replacing them with the mains-fed systems supplied by Crystal Clear.

Director of Crystal Clear, Ber Collins told us “It’s a really simple decision for companies to change.

The cost is significantly less, there are no more large plastic bottles to be stored and lifted on to the units and the staff are delighted that the company is supporting the reduction of plastic, so it’s a win win”.

Schools and colleges are also driving the

reduction of plastic use.

John Collins, Director of Crystal Clear highlighted that they have hundreds of the Versa Bottle Filler units in education hubs all over Ireland.

“The Versa Bottle filler is a fantastic system to meet the demand for a high volume of water in schools and colleges.

"We have also won a recent tender in UL that has been extended nationally, to supply large numbers of Versa systems in schools and colleges throughout Ireland.

"The numbers of single-use plastic bottles saved in UL alone will be in the millions per annum”.

On top of the UL contract, they have also installed the units in schools in Ennis, Kilrush, Kilkee, Kildysart and Kilmihil.

From their experience, the Collins’ have noticed businesses prefer the Oasis Kalix watercooler which sits quietly in the corner delivering fresh, chilled water once connected to the mains.

"Multiple units can be added depending on the size of a business, large multinationals and Irish companies are just some of those that have availed of their service along with hundreds of SMEs.

l REFRESHING: Crystal Clear offer an extensive range of high end water coolers

Two Ennis schools will double in size THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

n EXCITING new building project has just got underway in Ennis with the development of Gaelcholáiste an Chláir and Ennis Community College.

The project will see greatly expanded facilities with the campus almost doubling in size. This will result in a significant increase in annual enrolment. The school is administered by LCETB. George O’Callaghan, Chief Executive, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, said: “This is a significant day for the school community in that it represents the culmination of a lot of planning and design work. Hopefully the new facilities will provide excellent learning spaces for the students of Gaelcholáiste an

Chláir and Ennis Community College.”

The new development sees the addition of 4,200 square metres of teaching accommodation, as well as a large number of new classrooms, It also includes a new Science Lab, Home Economics room, Art room, Library and General Purpose Hall. Additionally, a full size sports hall, fitness suite and changing facilities will be delivered.

The project’s design team is Thompson Architects and the main contractor is Coolsivna Construction.

School principal, Brian O’Donoghue, said: “We are very excited about this development. The new facilities will further enhance the high quality of education taking place and, with LIT recently moving in across the road, it really cements Harmony Row and Bindon Street as the education quarter of Ennis.”

lNEW DIGS: Sarah Ni Cheallaigh, George O'Cal-

laghan (Chief Exec LCETB), Yvonne Walsh (Deputy Principal), Brian O'Donnoghue (Principal) and Liam O'Brien

Photo by Brian Arthur

NEWS 11

€219,000 in CLÁR funds SIX projects in Co Clare are to receive €219,000 towards Safety Measures and Play Areas for schools and communities under the latest round of funding from the CLÁR programme 2019.

Chosen projects were announced on Monday afternoon. Those to benefit in Clare include, Lissycasey National School for footpath, fencing (€40,500.00), Scariff National School for footpath, fencing, kerbing (€14,850.00), Ennistymon & District Sports Amenity Partnership for MUGA, safety signage, fencing, storage & toilet facilities (€28,735.75), Crusheen National School for resurface play area, playground markings, fencing: (€44,894.92), Annagh National School for improvements to playing area, fencing (€42,830.45) and West Clare Sports & Fitness for Sprint lane multi sports use (€46,000.00).

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Minister of State Pat Breen said “The funding will be used for the construction of new playgrounds and Multi Use Games Areas and the upgrading of existing playgrounds and equipment in six communities across the county.

“These grant allocations will also fund the provision of car parking facilities, construction and upgrading of footpaths, public lighting, pedestrian crossings and speed safety signs at many schools in CLÁR areas.”

Senator Martin Conway told The Clare Echo, “This is an effort by community groups to make play area fit for purpose and safe for the community and encourages young people to be active and more importantly stay active throughout their lives. I see this as an investment in our future and I believe this is money very well spent”.

The CLÁR programme is funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

12 NEWS

Clare disabled need social life P EOPLE with disabilities living in Co Clare are “crying out for a social life” and an outlet in which they can meet up regularly.

Last September, Martin Tobin was one of the Clare Leader Forum’s delegates that addressed the local authority and in recent days.

The Newmarket-on-Fergus native has outlined a particular issue that is of importance to individuals with various disabilities when speaking to The Clare Echo.

A past pupil of St Anne’s, Martin has completed two courses at LIT, one on advocacy, leadership and independent living in 2018. Earlier this year he studied campaigning for human rights and equality at the third level institute.

“There is an awful lot that needs to be done. For example these parties, people with disabilities are crying out for a social life, it’s not really there for them in the main.

It’s an issue that needs serious addressing”.

Martin admitted that he would love to be able to go out more, “normally it’s when family are going out I tag along with them”. He was unsure as to what could be done immediately to rectify the lack of suitable venues for such potential gatherings but felt a meeting the individuals running bars and restaurants and Clare Leader Forum may help.

Since 1999, Martin has worked part-time at the biggest supermarket in the village of Newmarket-on-Fer-

gus which is now called Eurospar, a post he received through EmployAbility.

Of his role, Tobin said: "I keep the place clean and keep a check on stuff ”. He encouraged personnel living in the county with disabilities and needs that holding down a job can be very positive.

lADVOCATE: Clare Leader Forum delegate Martin Tobin

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Targeting the Diaspora in Milwaukee THE 39th annual Milwaukee Irish Fest – the largest celebration of Irish culture and heritage in the United States – has been taking place in Wisconsin. The four-day festival has a huge audience of more than 130,000 visitors.

It was an ideal opportunity for Tourism Ireland to showcase Co Clare and Ireland.

Ciarán Cannon, Minister of State for the Diaspora and International Development, attended the festival, where he met with the Tourism Ireland team and the delegation of tourism enterprises from around the island of Ireland who attended this year’s festival – including Clare County Council.

“The Milwaukee Irish Fest provides another really good platform for Tourism Ireland to showcase Clare and Ireland and the diversity of our heritage and culture to prospective American visitors,” said Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America.

“It was a wonderful opportunity to invite some of the many people of Irish descent living and working in the US, as well as those with Irish connections or an affinity for Ireland, to come and visit.”

“Tourism Ireland has prioritised North America as a market which offers a strong return on investment, in terms of holiday visitors and expenditure.

The most recent CSO figures, for January-June, indicate growth of +9.1 per cent in arrivals from North America.

Tourism Ireland is rolling out an extensive and targeted programme of promotions throughout 2019, to continue to grow visitor numbers from North America.”

In 2018, Tourism Ireland welcomed almost 11.2 million overseas visitors to the island of Ireland (+5 per cent on 2017), delivering revenue of approximately €5.86 billion (+5 per cent). Tourism is Ireland’s largest indigenous industry.

14 NEWS

Beef Plan talks cancelled amid protest fears

PÁRAIC McMAHON

A

news@clareecho.ie

n organised meeting for members of the Beef Plan has been cancelled.

Due to take place at Hotel Woodstock in Ennis on Tuesday evening, the meeting was to discuss the group’s position following the conclusion of last week’s talks with Meat Industry Ireland (MII) and Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed.

However The Clare Echo understands that Beef Plan were fearful actions of personnel in the audience could have damaged their image and subsequently hinder negotiations.

The group were due to discuss securing a better price for their product along with fears of legal action.

Subsequently, the decision was made to cancel the gathering.

Members have expressed their annoyance with the outcome of the talks, “very little was achieved on the key issues for farmers,” one Clare farmer stated.

The draft deal was rejected by the Beef Plan.

“We talk about going back into talks but it’s a waste of time going back in if we can’t talk about price.

"We mentioned price every time we were in there but unfortunately it couldn’t be talked about, or so we were told,” IFA President Joe Healy remarked of the prospects

of negotiations resuming.

Protests which were suspended to allow talks to commence have resumed but the Beef Plan as one member outlined “is prohibited from taking part in the current farmer led protests and is not encouraging its members to participate”.

On Tuesday, the High Court granted an injunction against the protests restraining groups from blockading eleven factories.

Kepak’s meat processing plant at Tiermaclane is not covered in the restraints.

Some of the protesters at Tiermaclane vowed to continue to maintain their presence until talks focused on price, retail and independent views begin.

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Kilrush gets a face lift

l NEW HEIGHTS: Kilrush will take part in a community led design project Photo by Shane Gilligan

KILRUSH will participate in the community-led architecture and design programme, 'Reimagine'.

Six towns involved were confirmed by the Irish Architecture Foundation (IAF). The project aims to bring together communities, architects, designers and planners to develop projects to enhance the local environment of the chosen locations around Ireland.

Creating a plan and vision for the public areas of Kilrush is the focus with a particular emphasis on Frances St and Market Square. IAF has been working with Kilrush Town Team and in the coming weeks will be engaging with the local community to hear their views.

Chairman of Kilrush Town Team, Charlie Glynn is confident the collaborative approach will help the West Clare town. "We're delighted that Kilrush has been chosen to participate in Reimagine. The project is unique in that it allows Kilrush locals, architects, and designers, to work together to bring about positive changes to our civic spaces and we look forward to working with the IAF." Nathalie Weadick, Director of the IAF, said: "A key part of the Irish Architecture Foundation's Strategy is to enable citizens to contribute to and improve their built environment, and this lies at the very heart of Reimagine. No one knows more about Kilrush than the people who live there, and the overall aim of Reimagine is to enable local residents to bring about positive change to Kilrush through collaborative engagement with professionals in architecture, planning, and design.

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THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK 15

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

I

To school and beyond

T IS that time of year when young people preparing to go back to school, whilst others may be preparing for third-level education and moving from home for the first time. We all hope that our children will be independent thinkers, open-minded and confident in reaching decisions.

For some, the whole transition can be overwhelming, for others a break for freedom! Either way, we should all sit down together as families and ensure we are educated on all the resources and supports for students as they navigate the next part of their journey.

And what a few emotional days we had in the Scully household over this week with our daughters Mia and Sophie starting back to school and Mia starting into life in secondary school. It’s a huge occasion, especially, I suppose, when it’s the last child in the family starting school. It’s one of those special milestones in life.

It was a great first week for Mia and Sophie thank God, and we hope and pray it will continue for all children and young people going to school and third level especially when you consider all the children in our world that don’t have the same opportunities as ours to receive a top class education.

I hope that they, their teachers and lecturers, enjoy everything that they do and learn. A story from my Nana Scully’s prayer book might help to explain my thoughts on how sometimes children can teach us a lot.

The teacher who learned to teach As Mrs O’Connell stood in front of her 5th class on the very first day of school, she told the children a lie. Like most teachers, she looked at her students and said that she loved them all the same.

But that was impossible, because there in the front row, slumped in

his seat, was a little boy named Niall Mac. Mrs O’Connell had watched Niall the year before and noticed that he didn’t play well with the other children, that his clothes were messy and that he constantly needed a bath.

It got to the point where Mrs O’Connell would actually take delight in marking his papers with a broad red pen putting a big “F” at

best, but his father doesn’t show much interest and his home life will soon affect him if some steps aren’t taken.”

Niall’s fourth class teacher wrote, “Niall is withdrawn and doesn’t show much interest in school. He doesn’t have many friends and he sometimes sleeps in class”. By now, Mrs O’Connell realized the problem and she was

lBACK TO SCHOOL: School days are among the most important in a person’s life

the top of his papers.

At the school where Mrs O’Connell taught, she was required to review each child’s past records and she put Niall’s off until last.

When she reviewed his file, she was in for a surprise. Niall’s first class teacher wrote, “Niall is a bright child with a hearty laugh.

He does his work neatly and has good manners...he is a joy to be around “His second class teacher wrote, “Niall is an excellent student, well liked by his classmates, but he is troubled because his mother has a terminal illness and life at home must be a struggle.

His third class teacher wrote, “His mother’s death had been hard on him. He tries to do his

ashamed of herself.

She felt even worse when her students brought her Christmas presents, wrapped in beautiful paper, except for Niall’s.

His present was clumsily wrapped in brown paper bag.

Some of the children started to laugh when she found a rhinestone bracelet with some of the stones missing, and a bottle that was half full of perfume.

But she stifled the children’s laughter when she exclaimed how pretty the bracelet was and dabbed some of the perfume on her wrist.

Niall Mac stayed after school that day just long enough to say, “Mrs O’Connell, you looked just like my Mom today and you

smelled just like she used to”.

After the children left, she cried.

On that very day, she quit teaching reading, and writing, and arithmetic. Instead, she began to teach children.

Mrs O’Connell paid particular attention to Niall. By the end of the year, Niall had blossomed. As she worked with him, his mind seemed to come alive. become one of the smartest children in the class and, despite her lie that she would love all the children the same, Niall became one of her “teacher’s pets.”

A year later, she found a note under her door, from Niall, telling her that she was still the best teacher he ever had.

Six years went by before she got another note from Niall. He then wrote that he had finished secondary school, and she was still the best teacher he ever had.

Four years after that, she got another letter, saying that while things had been tough at times, he’d stayed in school, and would soon graduate from NUIG. There was yet another letter that spring. Niall said he’d met this girl and was going to be married. He explained that his father had died a couple of years ago and he was wondering if Mrs O’Connell might agree to sit in the place at the wedding that was usually reserved for the mother of the groom.

Of course, Mrs O’Connell did.

She wore that bracelet, the one with several rhinestones missing.

She made sure she was wearing the perfume that Niall remembered his mother wearing on their last Christmas together.

They hugged each other, and Dr Mac whispered in Mrs O’Connell’s ear, “Thank you Mrs O’Connell for believing in me.”

Mrs O’Connell, with tears in her eyes, whispered back. She said, “Niall, you have it all wrong. You were the one who taught me that I could make a difference. I didn’t know how to teach until I met

you.”

A prayer to start a new school year Dear God, We pray for your peace and care over the whole school, college and university year ahead. We thank you in advance for all that you have in store and ask that you would unfold great blessings and gifts in the coming days.

We ask for your wisdom and grace for each teacher as they prepare to lead their class each day.

Give them ability and effectiveness as they teach, fill them with creativity and passion for this very important role that you have called them to.

Give them laughter and fun in every day, but especially in the times when they get tired. Give wisdom to embrace encouragement along the way and to give encouragement where it is needed.

Instil in us all, teachers and parents, a heart of learning this year, because we’re never too old to learn new things. Give us all fresh perspective to see life through the eyes of a child, because sometimes important things become blurred and unclear as we grow up. Amen Thought for the week As your thought for the week, let us all try as much as possible to make a difference for the good in one another’s life’s as much as we can, for we all need help and support and indeed our country needs us all to make a difference for the good of one another. Let’s all make a difference together and for one another.

Best of luck to all students, teachers and lecturers as they all try to make a difference for the good in one another’s lives over the coming school and educational year. Let’s also think of those who will never have an opportunity to go to school because of because of people’s inhumanity to each other.

Entertainment

A Celebration of Summer Stars at Clare County Library

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HOUSANDS of children from across Clare who participated in Summer Stars, the summer reading programme for children, are being invited to six regional celebration events in September.

Summer Stars is an exciting reading-based programme which is available annually and is free of charge to children across the country. The reading adventure began in libraries nationwide on 15th June and is currently coming to a close. Librarians along with teachers and their families encourage children to continue reading and to participate in a range of other fun activities during the summer at local library branches.

Once registered for the programme the aim is for each participating child to read as many books as they wish during the summer months. All participants receive a Summer Stars Reading Card to record and track their own progress and there are promotional rewards and incentives at various stages as children continue to borrow books from the library. At the end of the programme, all participants are invited to attend an award event where they will receive a Summer Stars certificate.

Children and parents are invited to join in the final 2019 Summer Stars events in Kilrush Library on 7th September from 11am to 1pm, in Ennis library on the evenings of 10th and 24th of September from 5 to 7.30pm, in Shannon Library on 14th September from 10.30am to 1pm, in Ennistymon Library on 21st September

from 10am to 1pm and in Scariff Library on 28th September from 11am to 1pm.

There will be a return visit from Azal the Artist who is looking forward to meeting everyone who has participated in Summer Stars 2019. Where did he come from and how did he get to your library?

Bringing his artbox to life, he invites the audience to suggest ideas and inspiration for his pictures that open up new possibilities for stories to be told. The show by Sarah Fuller of Dog and String Theatre incorporates life size puppetry, live drawing and storytelling and is suitable for children of all ages.

Other entertainment includes fun illustration workshops with local artist and librarian Aidan Courtney. If you’ve enjoyed any good movies this Summer then you’re in for a treat? In his Drawing Blockbusters sessions Aidan will show you how to draw your favourite movie characters in quick, easy, step-by-step demonstrations based on your suggestions. His classes, as always guarantee fun, flexibility, and no pressure for all ages. If you are a Paddington Bear, Spiderman or Transformers fan, a Disney Princess, or if you love My Little Pony or any other great movie heroes, we look forward to seeing you. Aidan also invites you to join in his “Drawing on History” workshops if you prefer to create your favourite fearsome characters. Roman Soldiers, Pirate Queens and many other Awesome Adventurers from your preferred period in history are all on offer.

Renowned Australian composer Brett Dean makes his debut with the Irish Chamber Orchestra

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RETT Dean is one of Australia’s most talked about composers. Over the past 25 years, Dean has risen from being a fine orchestral violist who once wrote music on the side, to one of the world’s most celebrated composers, championed by conductors including Sir Simon Rattle and more. In 2009, he won the world’s most prestigious prize for composition, the US$200,000 Grawemeyer Award, for The Lost Art of Letter Writing. His first full-length opera, Bliss, based on Peter Carey’s 1981 best-selling novel was followed by a popular adaptation of Shakespeare’s Hamlet which premiered at Glyndebourne in 2017 to rave reviews.

Dean performs his Short Stories with the ICO in Dublin, Cork and Limerick 11,12 +13 September. His series of five miniatures, exploit string possibilities to the full. Mozart, fascinated by Bach’s counterpoint, wrote several Adagios and Fugues with a strong contrapuntal element, these are interspersed with Short Stories. His Masonic Funeral Music, is a seldom-heard emotional masterpiece. Dean champions the music of Paul Hindemith, another distinguished viola virtuoso, conquering the most pressing technical demands that Hindemith makes, in his emotive Trauermusik. The theme of death pervades in Mahler’s unfinished Tenth Symphony, particularly in its heartfelt Adagio, one of the most beautiful pieces in symphonic history.

If you are a viola lover – then this is the concert for you!

Dean and the Irish Chamber Orchestra perform these three emotive concerts at Monkstown Parish Church, Dublin, at CIT Cork School of Music, Cork (in association with Cork Orchestral Society) and St Mary’s Cathedral, Limerick on the 11,12 and 13 September. Tickets on www.irishchamberorchestra.com The Irish Chamber Orchestra is Ireland’s most dynamic ensemble, collaborating with everyone from DJs to dance

companies, providing high-energy performances of the highest standard. The Orchestra is resident at the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance at the University of Limerick and is funded by The Arts Council of Ireland/An Chomhairle Ealaíon. Further information/images available from charlotte.eglington@ul.ie

lSymphony: Autumn Concert in University Concert Hall.

Picture: Keith Wiseman

Clare Youth Theatre returns to glór

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LARE Youth Theatre (CYT), an initiative of the Arts Office of Clare County Council, returns to glór this year for its weekly work-

shops.

Open to all young people who are in secondary school, CYT meets every Saturday afternoon and delivers a programme that includes acting, devising, writing and technical skills for theatre. With members currently from all over the county, CYT offers teenagers a chance to meet and create with like-minded young people.

“Over the years we have seen firm friendships forged at the youth theatre,” according to Siobhán Mulcahy, Clare County Council Arts Officer. “The development of theatre skills is primarily what we do but the holistic benefits of team building, self confidence and addressing issues relevant to young people in a safe environment is what differentiates the youth theatre from other drama groups.”

Led by Eleanor Feely and Clare Townsend, the group engage in community events, pop up performances and productions throughout the year. There are no auditions, all are welcome, including those who may have a preference for behind the scenes theatre work such as scriptwriting or lighting etc.

Registration for new members takes place on Saturday, 31 August at 2.00pm in glór, followed by an introductory workshop where the young people can try it out for free.

For further information on Clare Youth Theatre contact the County Arts Office at 065 6899091 or see Clare Youth Theatre on Facebook.

ENTERTAINMENT

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Clare artists bring the land and sea to Clare Museum

“O

F Land and Sea”, an exhibition of exciting works from three local Clare artists, has been launched at Clare Mu-

seum in Ennis.

The exhibition is a combination of work by three emerging local artists from North Clare, Tina O’ Connell, Katie Theasby and Leigh O’Connell.

Their work has been inspired by the local area of “land and sea”, from the rugged Cliffs of Moher to the old buildings like “Blakes Corner” and the animals that fed off the land. Their love of North Clare is a common thread for these artists. Each of the artist’s like to work in different mediums from charcoal to watercolour and acrylics to oil, you will find it all in this inspired exhibition.

Tina O’ Connell found her love for painting in 2013 when she began painting on Killaloe Slate using acrylic paints.

The slate came from an old cottage in Killaloe, Co. Clare that was being reroofed with thatch. She has been providing local shops like Craft Works in Ennis with slate magnets, signposts and slate paintings. Tina began studying art full time in 2016 and her work has evolved over the years. She enjoys ceramic sculpting, working in 3D and oil painting. Tina likes to use themes to create a collection of work and draws on the North Clare’s landscape and culture for inspiration.

London-born Katie Theasby is a local musician who has always had a creative flair. Her father Paul Theasby was a musician and her mother Gloria Pahad

is also a local artist. She had ben working as a Special Needs Assistant and after dedicating 18 years to it she felt she needed to give something back to herself. She began studying at the Ennistymon School of Art where her flair for visual art was rekindled. Katie gets her inspiration from old buildings, nostalgia and memory. Many of her pieces feature found objects that give a nostalgia feel to her work. Katie works in many mediums but really enjoys sculpture, watercolour and ceramics.

After leaving for college, travel and life experience, Leigh O’ Connell returned to her native North Clare in 2014. Now living in Kilfenora with her husband and four children her art takes inspiration from the local wildlife, faces and fabulous skies. A mostly self-taught artist, Leigh had the privilege of being tutored

by Doolin watercolourist Cynthia Sinnott, who studied in Virginia and New York. As a mixed media artist, she frequently use fabrics, her sewing machine, watercolour and acrylic paint to achieve the desired mood of a piece. For the Of Land and Sea exhibition Leigh focused on charcoal, acrylic and pen on canvas which creates a starkness that emphasizes the majesty of our native animals and birds. Portraiture is her joy and creating the nuances of expression, whether human or animal, is the driving force of Leigh’s passion.

“Of Land and Sea” runs until the end of September and admission to the exhibition is free. All work on display is for sale. For more see www.burrenarts.com.

Wild Atlantic Inspiration

By Kim Thittichai KIM moved to Fodra on Loop Head from Brighton U.K. in November 2016 looking for a change of pace. It was a big change, but she has found that it was worth making that leap from a very busy and noisy city to the peace and beauty of the Loop Head Peninsula.

The rock pools of Ross Bay are an endless delight to Kim. The layer upon layer of texture and colour of the seaweeds are a never-ending inspiration. Kim has always taken photographs for creative reference and teaching aids for composition. The stunning local natural landscape of the cliffs and fields and local buildings all inspire Kim in her work and photography.

Kim’s latest flight of fancy is to create a range of work based on the hares that run around and play in the yard out side her house. There is one, larger hare, that has been christened ‘Harry’. He is subject of her latest body of work. Harry is a whimsical, rather magical, character that is going to keep Kim busy for a while to come.

Sonas Studio is where Kim works, next to her house at Fodra, between the Bridges of Ross and the lighthouse. There are regular Open Studio weekends where you go and chat to Kim and see what she is up to.

You can look at Kim’s extensive work at her website www.kimthittichai.com Cultúrlann Sweeney Kilkee Exhibition Dates : Sept 02nd 23rd Sept 2019 Official Opening on Sept 04th @ 6 pm

17

Brendan Grace added to Shannon Airport’s Wall of Fame PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

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through. It just conjures up so many memories for people and I expect the same will happen with Brendan’s photo. It was just such a source of pride for him that he was going to be included among all those famous faces.”

She added: “We met with the airport people about it in the spring and his health wasn’t great then so we hoped things would get better, but it was not to be. It was one of the things he wanted to do and we are delighted today that we have finished the task but so sad that he wasn’t here with

our ‘Wall of Fame’. This photograph will be treasured and hopefully bring a smile to all who see it, remembering with fondness the laughter and joy Brendan brought to so many over the years”.

Mayor of Clare Cathal Crowe was also present at the event. “The Grace family have been remarkable in how they have dealt with Brendan’s passing. They have mourned his death deeply but have also really celebrated his life. Their desire to follow through on his wishes and have this photo installed in the remarkable

NE of the last wishes of the late comedy great Brendan Grace was carried out at Shannon Airport on Tuesday afternoon as his photos was added to their ‘wall of fame’.

Brendan’s wife Eileen, daughter Amanda, son-in-law Frank and grandson Jamie were in Co Clare to unveil the photo in the gallery of Shannon Airport. The 4ft X 4ft photo joins the airport ‘Wall of Fame’, which now comprises over 80 photos of some of the world’s most famous personalities from stage and screen plus politicians, kings and queens from around the world who visited the airport across the last eight decades. The ‘Wall of Fame’, which includes every US president since JFK, was installed in 2015 in the airport departures lounge.

Since early this year, Brendan and Eileen had been planning his addition to the gallery but his deteriorating health prevented it from happening in his presence. He died in July this year from lung cancer, thousands of mourners PROUD: Brendan’s daughter Amanda, grandson James Gillespie (11) and attended his funeral. wife Eileen at The Wall of Fame at Shannon Airport today

Photo: Arthur Ellis Speaking on Tuesday, Eileen said, “Brendan loved Shannon Airport. He travelled through here us.”

Shannon Airport ‘Wall of Fame’ is for five decades over and back to the Acting CEO of Shannon Group further evidence of that. It is a great US in particular, but also the UK and Mary Considine said it was a day of gesture from the family, one that reEurope. He just loved the conve- mixed emotions: “Brendan Grace flects the special relationship he had nience and warmth of it. It was, in was a frequent flyer through Shan- with the airport and Co. Clare, but fact, one of the reasons that got us non and our staff got to know him as also one that will give all those pasto come and live in Killaloe. He was a true friend. He was a huge support- sengers coming through Shannon really delighted then when Shan- er of Shannon Airport and we were a lovely moment as they remember non Group suggested that we have a deeply saddened with the news of this very special person and the wonphoto of him installed in their Wall his passing. It means a lot to us to- derful, joyous impact he had on our of Fame. It’s a lovely exhibition, with day to be able to fulfil his wish and lives,” he stated. so many famous people having come see his picture proudly displayed on

Over €2.5m generated from sale of Shannon apartments

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N excess of €2.5m is to be raised from the sale of apartments in Shannon.

Sale has been agreed for forty four units by BidX1 at Brú na Sionna which equates to €52,270 per apartment.

Included in the deal are 26 two bedroom units, 17 three bedroom units and a four bedroom apartment.

Of the forty two occupied units, a total of €395,400 is generated through annual rent with the fee per annum paid by residents varying from €6,900 to €10,800 on rent. Housing units are spread out amongst the development ranging in size from 56 sq m for the smallest two-bedroom unit to 107 sq m for the four-bed unit.

A month ago, a further three units at 31, 100 and 101 Brú na Sionna, sold at an REA online auction for a combined €211,000 or an average of €70,333. They consist of one two-bedroom and two three-bedroom 90 sqm units.

Located in the middle of Shannon Town, the complex off Tullyglass Rd is a few minutes walk away from Sky Court Shopping Centre. In March of this year, it emerged that homeowners in the 240 apartment unit were told they would have pay €4m to remedy fire defects, twice more than originally estimated.

Originally the cost of works per unit was deemed to be from €6,000 to €12,000. Fire marshals were patrolling the development on a twenty four hour basis at a cost of €200,000 a year.

Speaking previously on the concerns, Adrian Kelly Clare’s Chief Fire Officer had agreed with the company on a programme of redress that would attempt to eliminate any fire safety concerns. “Clare County Council is satisfied that the owner management company is engaging with us to rectify the various fire safety issues uncovered and are completing the works on a priority basis. In the interim there are safeguards in place to allow occupiers to remain in their apartments while the works are progressing.”

Speeches expected at Shannon Toastmasters open night SHANNON Toastmasters will be holding an open night on Wednesday to give a flavour of the world’s oldest public speaking and leadership organisation.

Beginning in The Park Inn, Shannon Airport at 19:45, an open invitation is being extended to the public to meet members and learn how to develop public speaking skills “in a fun and supportive environment”.

Run by volunteers, Shannon Toastmasters is devoted to helping individuals become better speakers and leaders. They meet twice a month, preparing speeches which other club members then evaluate.

Vice President of the Group, Noel Blake said, “Shannon Toastmasters is a very friendly environment for people who would like to become more confident speakers. Whether you have a wedding speech coming up, or a presentation at work or even just want to become more confident Toastmasters can really help. It’s a safe place to practice public speaking, and get helpful, constructive feedback.”

Meetings take place on the first and third Wednesday of each month, guests are welcome to attend up to three meetings before making a decision about joining

BUSINESS 19

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

BUSINESS

CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE

New BEN visitor point rolled out

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URREN Ecotourism have launched a new information desk at the Cliffs of Moher aimed at encouraging visitors to stay longer in the county.

“A major opportunity for Co. Clare is to encourage visitors from around Ireland and around the world to stay longer in the county. The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience has become Ireland’s most visited natural attraction and is a major asset in promoting tourism to the county.

The challenge now rests in leveraging the national and global interest in the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience to deliver more revenue to the businesses and communities of the county. Encouraging a longer stay is key to this” So says Jarlath O’Dwyer, CEO of Burren Ecotourism Network who this week launched an information desk at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience. The objective of the desk is to create stronger awareness among visitors of the riches

that lie in the Burren and surrounding areas.

“Members of the Burren Ecotourism Network will assist visitors, tour guides, group leader and bus drivers in deciding on where to go and what to do next in the area before they leave the cliffs and head off to another county altogether.

The information desk is designed to give businesses in the area the opportunity to promote themselves and their offering, encouraging tourists to stay another night” explains Jarlath.

The Burren Ecotourism Network is a diverse community of businesses including accommodation providers, restaurants, island ferries, show caves, food producers, craft shops and guided walks.

All member businesses will have a chance to spend time at the new information desk, which will be particularly important during off peak months.

“In a challenging year like 2019, tourism businesses have to engage in new ac-

tivity to generate extra footfall. Collaborating with each other through initiatives like this at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience is an example of what can be done” said Councillor Joe Garrihy.

“We feel that if we can create better awareness of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark, and all that it has to offer to the people that are here on the ground right now, we stand a stronger chance of converting some of those visits into extended stays. This has been our objective for some time and as part of a number of initiatives, we feel that working together like this will certainly help” added Joan Hamilton of Doolin2Aran Ferries O’Dwyer continued “The Geopark is on its way to becoming an internationally recognised premier destination because of the density of natural wonders, the rich culture and heritage of the area along with the supply of excellent accommodation food and entertainment.”

l WORKING TOGETHER: Pictured at the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience from left are Jarlath O’Dwyer - Burren Ecotourism Network, Siobhan Nolan Doolin Ferry Company, Joan Hamilton - Doolin2Aran Ferries, Helen Browne - Doolin Cave, Frances Connole - Burren Centre, Kilfenora, Geraldine Enright - Cliffs of Moher, Mark O’Shaughnessy - Cliffs of Moher, Birgitta Curtin - Burren Smokehouse, Lisdoonvarna, Councillor Joe Garrihy, Sharon Malone - Falls Hotel, Ennistymon

Upcycle Challenge for HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE National Reuse Month RECYCLING DAY! THE Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Mywaste.ie have set Ireland’s biggest ever Upcycle Challenge, due to take place this October during Reuse Month.

EPA’s Shane Colgan said, “The Upcycle Challenge will allow participants to use their imaginations to create something new out of something old by breathing new life into an old or unwanted item or material.

“Upcycling is growing in popularity and we are looking forward to submissions from all over Ireland,” he added.

In its fourth year, Reuse Month continues to encourage people to reuse everyday items as often as possible, while considering alternative options to single use products, repairing rather than replacing, and upcycling and repurposing unwanted items regularly.

Reuse Month takes place throughout October and supports the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, in particular Goal 12

CHARGE €10.00 PER VEHICLE - MAX OF 3 ITEMS PER VEHICLE

Normal charges will apply for any additional items

Items that can be disposed of:  wardrobes  couches  armchairs  lockers  TV stands  tables & chairs Please note: Mattresses & bed bases will not be accepted as part of this scheme It is the responsibility of those transporting furniture to manually offload it and have adequate help for bigger and bulkier items

Sat 31st August from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm at : • Central Waste Management Facility Inagh & • Shannon Recycling Centre, Smithstown, Shannon

HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE ONLY Furniture from businesses will not be accepted

Both facilities are expected to be very busy on this day and customers are asked to bring the correct cash amounts to avoid delays to themselves and others. Receipts will be provided to all customers.

This is part of the Anti Dumping Initiative 2019 Co-ordinated by Clare County Council & WERLA Southern Region

which calls for Responsible Consumption and Production.

Goal 12 outlines the importance of the efficient management of shared natural resources and the way we dispose of toxic waste and pollutants. It also encourages industries, businesses and consumers to recycle and reduce waste.

Shane Colgan, Environmental Protection Agency said, “The Upcycle Challenge will allow participants to use their imaginations to create something new out of something old by breathing new life into an old or unwanted item or material.

“Upcycling is growing in popularity across the country, so we are looking forward to submissions from all over Ireland,” he added.

Further details on Reuse Month and the Upcycle Challenge are available at www. mywaste.ie.

20 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

‘The training we did through the LEO was invaluable’ The Clare Echo sits down with John Slattery for a Q&A

PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

Tell us about John Slattery Hygienic Applications Ltd? “We’re in business fifteen years since March just gone. Myself, my wife Susan and her brother-in-law, Darren, were the only employees starting off, now we have 9 people involved, we’ve grown substantially. We specialise in various hygienic resin floors, Antimicrobial PVC wall cladding, polished concrete & wall coatings. Our main clients are pharmaceutical, biomedical, Food & health care and hotels & Leisure, we cover the country”.

In the early days, what was it like when the business was in its infancy?

“It was hard because not too many people knew of us or the systems that we were using particularly in the Health Sector, but I knew what we would solve a lot of their problems. I had a proven track record in my previous works, a few good contacts and it started from there. We took a big risk, as we had no other financial backing & a young family, but with lots of hard work, and hard times, it has paid off.

As a start-up, was there any particular highpoint or low point?

“The Local Enterprise Office helped us out a lot through grant aid and mentoring which for me was very helpful. There was one guy they brought in, he was an excellent motivator because what he did for me was unreal. The training we did through the LEO was invaluable.

The recession was the worst time I’ve come across. We went from a five-seven day a week to a three day a week for a good while, which was very hard on our employees. We made a decision to ride it out, instead of folding the company... it was that bad at one point...and took out personal loans to keep the company afloat. It taught me one thing, not to put all my eggs in the one basket anymore, as, at the time, approx. 80% of our work was healthcare based.

Was the recession the breakthrough moment for your business?

“It was, 2009-2011 were tough but after that it excelled, the recession got rid of the deadwood i.e. (bad competition).

What’s unique about us is we offer turnkey solutions, there are contractors out there that just do resin floors or wall cladding or polished concrete, we do the whole package, it suits a lot of clients to say we just want one contractor, our uniqueness is that our guys multitask and that’s where you need to be. We are the main subcontractor for three to four multinationals at

the moment, our workload, labour force and turnover has increased as a result.

What impact has the LEO had on your business?

The LEO has helped us out tremendously over the past 15 years in Training , Funding for new equipment & mentoring , the impact has been huge...we couldn’t have expanded the way we have without their help. I have to say for any small business they are the go-to people.

I bought a large piece of equipment with the help of the LEO & to date the number of doors it has opened and turnover it has generated is unreal.

What’s next on the business agenda?

“My next thing is for me to slowly take a step back and to let the next generation step up, as we are a family business.

Are you optimistic for the future of the business?

I am. You hear a lot of negativity regarding Brexit and projections coming down along the line, but we have built up a very good clientele base, and I am a firm believer of maintaining that. People come to us with problems and need to know that we can solve them. It is so important to make sure the client is happy with the solution. Walk the job with them before you leave it, give 110% before any invoice goes in, go the extra mile & it will pay dividends. I always say to my employees, talking to the client is just as important as the physical side of the job & if there are any problems put your hand up & admit it because you’ll get a lot more respect for it.

What top tip would you have for attracting new customers and keeping existing ones loyal?

Give them a turnkey solution, don’t be a yes man but treat them with respect and give them value for money.

What top tip would you have for staying on top of costs and cashflow?

Make sure you have a good structure in place with an accounts package; keep on top of invoices...follow up with a phone call before it’s due; don’t overstretch yourself (talking from experience).

Do your research and give your client options.

What would be your top tip for getting the best out of your team and employees?

Treat them well, treat them with respect, have the craic with them, I always say to them, family comes first, job comes second.

Have a good list of reliable sub-contractors you can trust.

BUSINESS 21

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Local Enterprise Office Autumn Training Programme

GRANT AID PRESTART - Feasibility Study Grant The Feasibility Study grant can provide up to €15,000 in match-funding to research the viability and sustainability of a product or service and/or develop a prototype.

What can the grant be used for? . Market Research and Consultancy Costs . Prototype development . Salary Supports

START - Priming Grant

MEET THE TEAM

The Priming Grant can provide up to €80,000 in match-funding to assist a business within its first 18 months of trading.

What can the grant be used for? . Capital . Salary Support . Consultancy and Marketing Costs . General Overheads

GROW - Business Expansion Grant The Business Expansion Grant can provide up to €80,000 in match-funding to assist a business that has been trading for more than 18 months.

What can the grant be used for? . Capital . Salary Support . Consultancy and Marketing Costs . General Overheads L-R; Tadhg Holmes, Finbar Tuohy, Sinéad Dixon-Slattery, Padraic McElwee Head of Enterprise, Declan Meaney, Earlie.

OifigLinda Fiontair Áitiúil CountyorCity

Local Enterprise Office CountyorCity

STARTING OR GROWING

STARTING OR GROWING YOUR OWN BUSINESS? YOUR OWN BUSINESS? WE PROVIDE INFORMATION, EXPERT ADVICE WE PROVIDE INFORMATION, EXPERT ADVICE AND PRACTICAL SUPPORTS - LOCALLY AND PRACTICAL SUPPORTS - LOCALLY

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LocalEnterprise.ie/CountyorCity localenterprise.ie/clare Making It Happen LocalEnterprise.ie/Fingal Making It Happen LocalEnterprise.ie/Fingal

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Making It Happen Making It Happen Telephone 01.234.5678 Telephone 065-6821616

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22 EDUCATION

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

College students urged to be Standards Smart ahead of new academic year

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HE National Standards Authority is urging all students moving into private rented accommodation to ensure their lodgings meet the proper health and safety standards. The call comes as more than 50,000 students prepare to enter third-level education for the first time – and many thousands more return for another academic year.

Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen TD said: “Standards are playing an increasingly significant role in society by highlighting and ensuring the quality of the goods we buy, the services we use and the work we undertake. I would encourage all students to be aware of the importance of standards – not only for their college years, but throughout their future working lives.”

Landlords have a legal duty to ensure that rented accommodation meets certain minimum physical and safety standards including, but not limited to, the presence of two smoke alarms, a Carbon Monoxide (CO) detector, a fire blanket and a fixed heater.

All these items should display the CE Mark, which shows that the product meets the minimum safety requirements as set out under European legislation, and, in the case of CO detectors, should meet the EN 50291 standard.

“Finding appropriate rental accommodation for students in the current climate is very challenging, given the current shortage in housing supply. We’re asking people

to be mindful of standards when they do secure a place to stay and, if necessary, to remind landlords of their obligations when it comes to providing a safe place to live,” said Pat Bracken, NSAI’s Director of Corporate Services.

“All rental accommodation, regardless of size or type, should contain two smoke alarms, a CO detector, a fire blanket and fixed heating. All of those items should display the CE mark and, where applicable, meet the relevant standards,” he added.

Here are five simple tips to help ensure quality and reliability in a product or service:

1. Buy genuine

Only buy electrical products, such as laptops, kettles, toasters, or extension leads that display the CE Mark. The CE mark should be visible on the product itself or on its packaging. If it’s not there don’t buy it.

2. Don’t overload power outlets

When you’re short on sockets, it may be tempting to have your laptop, phone, TV, hairdryer and gaming system all plugged into one cord, but that can overload the circuit and potentially cause a fire. Make sure the extension cord is heavy enough for the intended load and that there are no loose connections. If a cord or plug becomes hot when it is plugged in, it may be overloaded and should be disconnected immediately.

3. Keep heaters away from every-

thing else

Electric heaters are a great way to heat a room but are not meant to dry clothes and they should not be left unattended. Misuse can lead to serious injuries, fatalities or fires. Place the heater where it cannot be knocked over, at least one metre from furniture and flammable materials such as curtains, bedding and paper.

Turn it off if you’re heading out for the day or night. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and again, make sure it displays the CE Mark.

quality marks on the device; EN 50291, the CE-Mark symbol and an end-of-life indicator. Test your smoke detectors once a week, by pressing the test button until the 4. Read the instructions alarm sounds. Change the batteries once a If you are using electrical appliances, year, unless it’s a ten-year alarm and NSAI make sure you follow the manufacturer’s recommends you replace the whole unit instructions. Don’t leave items unattended every 10 years. while in use, for example a laptop on a bed, In addition to the above advice, NSAI is and keep flammable materials away from advising prospective tenants to read the cooking and heating devices. appropriate legislation in full for more information on their statutory rights.

For further information, visit NSAI.ie, like 5. Get alarmed Part-Time for Adults Clare us on Facebook and LinkedIn at NSAI Carbon monoxideCourses is a colourless, odour-in Co. or follow us on Twitter @NSAI_Standards. less, lethal gas and a carbon monoxide Introductory and Certified detector could save your life. Look for three

Adult Education Courses

St Joseph’s Secondary School

St Joseph’s Secondary School, QQI Certified Level 5 Spanish Point, Co. Clare • Healthcare Support T: 065 7084311 E: admin@stjosephsspanishpoint.com • Business Administration/Medical Administration

Adult Education Courses ADULT EDUCATION 1.

COURSES • • •

Information Technology Sport, Recreation and Exercise Childcare

Early Childhood Care and Education – Level 5 Major Award

StJoseph’s Joseph’s Secondary School St

Secondary School

Mandatory Components:

Child Development Leaving Certificate Child Health And Well Being • English Early Care And Education And Practice • Maths Early Childhood Education And Play • Business

Work Experience Communications

Optional Components:

St Joseph’s Part-Time Courses for Adults in Co. ClareSecondary School, Spanish Point, Co. Clare Introductory and CertifiedT: 065 7084311 E: admin@stjosephsspanishpoint.com

Creative Arts For Early Childhood Approaches To Early Childhood Education • History School Age Childcare • Geography Understanding Special Needs

Basic Education Joseph’s Secondary School, Point, Co. Clare QQI Certified Level 5 Spanish 1. Early Childhood CareStand Education – Level 5 Major Award 2. Early Childhood Workplace Care and Education – Level 6 Major Award • Retail Skills • Excel Healthcare Support E: admin@stjosephsspanishpoint.com Business Administration/Medical Administration MANDATORY COMPONENTS: OPTIONAL COMPONENTS: • Information Technology • Sport, Recreation and Exercise 2.

Early • Childcare • T: 065 7084311 •

Development  Creative Arts For Early 1.  Child Early Childhood Care and Education – Level 5 Childhood Major Award

•

Stock Control

•

Word

•

Introduction to Healthcare

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Email

MANDATORY COMPONENTS: OPTIONAL • Workplace Maths • Internet COMPONENTS:

Childhood Care and Education – Level 6 Major Award • Reception and Administration • Digital Media

 Child Development  Early Childhood Literacy & Numeracy Skills • Tourism in Co. Clare • Catering  Child Health And Well Being  Approaches To Early  Early Childhood Curriculum  Supervision In Skills Early Childhood Care Mandatory Components: Optional Components: • Taxi SPSC exam preparation • IT for Farming  Early Care And Education And Practice Components: childhood Education  Child Childhood Legal And Health  Special Needs Assisting

• Social Communications and Customer • Basic Mandatory Optional Components: Development Early Accounts Childhood Literacy & Numeracy Care  Early Childhood EducationChild And Play  School Age Childcare Studies Development Creative Arts For Early Childhood Early Childhood Curriculum Supervision In Early Childhood Care

Leaving Certificate  Work Experience Understanding Special Needs Approaches To Early Childhood Education  Childhood Work Experience Child Health AndWell Being Social Legal And Health Studies Special Needs Assisting • English • History Early Care And Education And Practice School Age Childcare Work Experience  Communications  Communications

• Maths • Geography

Early Childhood Education And Play Understanding Special Needs Communications • Business Contact Details

Work Experience 3. Healthcare Support for the Elderly and people with disabilities Communications

EVENING COURSES, PART TIME OVER 1 YEAR

Level 5 Major award

FET Centre,

CABES

FET Centre

FET Centre,

FET Centre,

Evening courses, part time over 2 years Cooraclare Clonroad Campus, Ennistymon Scariff.

4 Bru Na Sionna,

Workplace Education Library, 5 mandatory Road, components and 3 others.

Shannon.

This course enables successful learners to provide healthcare Basic to the elderly and people with disabilitiesTo achieve a Major award,Ennis. learners must complete

To achieve a Major award, learners must complete 5 mandatory components and 3 others.

and facilitates the learner to explore healthcare•support withSkills a view to re-skilling/up-skilling and Ennistymon.

Kilrush.

Retail • Excel ComponentsComponents are also offered onalso an individual basis suit learner requirements.

Each component takes approximately exploring concepts and subject areas that may interest the learner in future programmes or employment. are offered on antoindividual basis to suit learner requirements.

Each • Stock Control • Word For further information or to book your place on this course please contact Pamela on 065 7084311 (065) 6824819 7072757 (065) 9052131 (061) 640760 (061) 365495 weeks to complete. component(065) takes approximately 10 weeks to complete.

• Internet or email admin@stjosephsspanishpoint.com• Workplace Maths

•

Introduction to Healthcare

•

Email

10

Note: Special Needs is delivered as an individual component at both level 5 and level 6.

Note: Special Needs is delivered as an individual component at both level 5 and level 6.

Classes are free.

2. MANDATORY Early Childhood Care and Education – Level 6 Major Award COMPONENTS: OPTIONAL COMPONENTS: • Reception and Administration • Digital Media

further or information to book your place onplease childcare courses contact For furtherFor information to book youror place on childcare courses contact Tina onplease 087 2988005 forTina levelon 5, and Kate Skills Care Of The Older Person  Care Support 087 2988005 for level 5, and Kate on 087 7782538 for level 6 • Tourism in Co.Centred Clare Focus To Disability • Catering Skills on 087 7782538 for level 6  Safety And Health At Work  Person Mandatory Components: Optional Components: • Taxi exam preparation • IT for Farming  Care Skills SPSC Rehabilitation Support • Communications and Customer • Basic Child Development Early Accounts Childhood Literacy & Numeracy  Work Experience  Palliative Care Support Care  Communications Early Childhood Curriculum Supervision In Early Childhood Care  Special Needs

Assisting Childhood Social Legal And Health Studies Special Needs Assisting Work Experience

Communications Contact Details

24 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

Has the bar been set so low you should be happy you’re comparatively better than a third world country Joseph Miskell

reacting to our a former Ennis hospital chief saying he’d love to show HSE critics the health system in Ghana

instagram.com/ theclareecho

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week RICHARD CHAMBERS @newschambers

Probably best our Clare Rose not to follow the one opening a bottle of wine with a boot. None can live up to that standard. #RoseofTralee

TRENDING ON OUR WEBSITE: CLAREECHO.IE Streaming club games online ‘is going to take off’ STREAMING club games online “is going to take off” according to Clare GAA Chairman, Joe Cooney.

On Saturday last, Clare GAA TV was launched as it aired the meeting of Sixmilebridge versus Ballyea in the club hurling championship online.

Filmed by Dowd Media with commentary by Leo Doyle and Brendan Bugler, the clash was viewed by more than 3,000 people both at home and abroad.

“This is a new venture for Clare GAA. The idea of this is that we promote our games, promote it overseas. We’re all well aware we’ve emigrants in foreign countries and it is great that they can sit down tonight and enjoy one of the championship matches, it was a fantastic game of hurling but it’s really to promote the game and for people in our own county that cannot get to the game, elderly people who would love to watch the games but can’t get to see them,” Cooney said in the moments after Saturday’s game.

“Overall it is a mighty venture, it is something that is going to take off I think, we are going to do a number of games in both hurling and football in the coming weeks, I think myself it is the way forward,” the O’Callaghans Mills clubman added.

This weekend the clash of Cooraclare and Ennistymon in Group Three of the Clare SFC will be streamed live from Hennessy Memorial Park, Miltown Malbay with coverage commencing at 16:15 and the game throwing in at 16:30.

l INCREASED COVERAGE: Clubs like Ballyea will be streamed on a regular basis on Clare GAA TV

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2018

CÚL CAMPS PHOTOS ACROSS THE COUNTY

CÚL CAMPS 25 CONTACT NEWSDESK

l LOVELY HURLING: Darragh McMahon and Jamie Downes stand tall at the Ballyea Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Jessica Leahy and Caeleb Harkins at the Cratloe Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Isabelle Griffin keeps her eyes on the sliotar at the Ballyea Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Emma Stritch at the Cratloe Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Cian Carrigg and Ailbhe Griffin at the Ballyea Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Emily Carr and Caoileann Cooney take a break in the dugout at the Ballyea Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Sadhbh Kelly alert on the goalline at the Cratloe Kelloggs Cúl Camp

Photos: Páraic McMahon

Community 26 COMMUNITY

GORT

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

l LIFE SAVERS: Cratloe Community First Responders with Mayor of Clare Cathal Crowe

CLÁR FUNDING St Colman’s Park in Gort are to benefit from CLÁR funding, with the sports venue set to receive €45,000 for footpaths and public lighting.

Galway schools and community projects have been awarded €264,300 CLÁR funding.

The funding, which is targeted at areas of population decline, is awarded from the Department of Rural and Community Development.

Galway East TD and Minister for Rural Affairs Seán Canney said: “I am delighted that these very worthwhile projects have been successful in the Department’s first round of funding this year. CLÁR funding is a great opportunity for investment in areas that require additional support.”

The projects to benefit are: Brownsgrove NS Tuam, €50,000 for car parking and footpaths; St Colman’s Park Trustees Gort, €45,000 for footpaths and public lighting; St Jarlath’s NS Skehanagh, €39,600 for car parking and footpaths; Killererin Development Company, €50,000 for a playground; Cleggan/Claddaghduff Community Council, €50,000 for the construction of footpaths for a public facility and public lighting; and Coiste Pobail Charna, €29,700 for footpaths.

Minister Canney congratulated all the schools and organisations on their success in the first funding round for 2019 and thanked the Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring for his continued support for the CLÁR fund.

ENNIS CLARE MEN’S SHED We at Clare Men’s Sheds are involved in a garden project at St Joseph’s Hospital in Ennis to enhance the lives of the residents there by developing the garden and footpaths to endeavor to make the garden more welcoming and accessable to the 56 residents who look out onto it.

All ten mens sheds in Co Clare are involved and have received support from several local businesses and also the Irish Men’s Shed Association and Topline. The new and improved garden will be opened next Saturday, August 31 at 1pm.

EAST CLARE CLARE CRUSADERS Children's Clinic Family Fun Day and Tractor Run. Barefield, Sunday, Sept 1 from 2pm to 5pm . Tractor Run and Children's Tractor Run, BBQ, 9 hole crazy golf, Pony Rides, DJ, Ice-cream, Bonnie Baby competition, raffle and much more.

WEST CLARE COLLEEN BAWN THEATRE Full Moon Theatre Co. presents - “Ellen Hanly - Colleen Bawn... the eyewitness accounts” by Rob Hopkins and Jacinta Maloney.

The show will be performed in the Teac Ceoil Kilrush on Sunday September 1 at 8pm and Knockerra Hall on Saturday 7 at 8.30pm.

The play was written to mark the 200th anniversary of her discovery on the shoreline at Moneypoint (Sept 10). The tragic events of local history that became a box office sensation around the world, come back to life.

WEST CLARE CANCER CENTRE A cancer diagnosis casts a dark cloud over the person diagnosed and their loved ones. Hopefully at West Clare Cancer Centre Kilkee,we can help you through this difficult time. Johanna, our counsellor meets with clients in Kilkee & Ennis and is available for home visits, if needs be. If you would like to speak to Johanna or to arrange an appointment Tel: 065-9060762.

SOUTHEAST CLARE COMMUNITY FIRST RESPONDERS The next life we save could be yours. Community First Responder (CFR) Schemes are made up of volunteers who live or work within a particular community and have been trained to attend certain 112/999 calls in support of the National Ambulance Service (NAS).

Their aim is to reach a potentially life-threatening emergency in the first vital minutes before the ambulance crew arrives. They are able to provide first aid for certain conditions, including cardiac arrest (using a defibrillator if required). The ambulance and CFRs are dispatched at the same time, so the ambulance will already be on its way and CFRs can make a life-saving contribution until they arrive. Cratloe & District CFR is organising a training session for the new CFR group in the Cratloe area. The training will take place in Cratloe GAA hall on Sunday September 15 from 10am to 2pm.

Please contact us if you are interested in learning life-saving skills and becoming a volunteer. Email cratloecfr@gmx.com or call 087 1666960

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Community

COMMUNITY 27 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

ENNIS

LEADING THE WAY:At the Clare Leader Forum summer party; above: Coleen Mulcahy & Evelyn Vaughan at the Clare Leader Forum Summer Party; (top right) David Dawson & Angela Laws enjoy the break (bottom right) Damon Wyse busts some moves .

Photos by Paraic McMahon

RUAN RUAN SUMMER CAMP A HUGE SUCCESS (PICTURED RIGHT) For the fourth year in succession Ruan GAA and Camogie Club held their own Summer Camp which saw 135 boys and girls enjoy a great week of hurling and camogie from August 19th to 22nd.

The camp was run from 10am to 2pm daily with the children being divided into groups from Under 6 to Under 13.

The children were taught skills and took part in many hurling drills each morning while in the afternoons the boys and girls were involved in leagues. The camp concluded with league finals and a visit from an ice-cream van.

Special guests at the camp were Clare sporting stars Eimear Considine, Peter Duggan and Laura McMahon. The head coach for the week was local hurler Seán Cullinan. The club is very lucky to have so many excellent and experienced coaches that helped out during the week. Along with the head coach, the 17 coaches who helped out with the camp were Alice Casey, Rebecca Crowe, Noel O’Donoghue, Brian Roughan, Anne McMahon, Gerry Fox, Barry Heagney, Shane O’Loughlin, Paul Howard, Ashley Brohan, Robin Mounsey, Cian O’Donoghue, Conal O’hAiniféin, Siofra Lawton, Lisa Whelan, Michelle Power and Shane Punch. A very energetic organising committee ensured a very well run and successful camp and plans are in place already to run this popular Summer Camp in 2020.

RSA URGES SCHOOL SAFETY The Road Safety Authority (RSA), ESB Networks and An Garda Síochána are appealing to parents, guardians and teachers to ensure road safety is on the back to school lesson plan for all school children.

As children return to school it is also important to remind motorists to be mindful of our most vulnerable road-users.

A total of 35 children aged 15 and under have been killed on Irish roads in the 5 years from 2014-2018. Of these, 18 were

passengers and 13 were pedestrians.

The RSA is reminding parents to ensure their child is visible when walking or cycling to school, or when waiting for the school bus and is restrained correctly in the back of the car.

Speaking at the launch of this year’s back-to-school campaign, Moyagh Murdock, Chief Executive, Road Safety Authority said: “With children returning to school over the coming days, road users need to be extra vigilant. In addition to the inevitable increased traffic levels, motorists and other road users should be conscious of children walking and cycling to and from school. Drivers need to pay attention to their speed, particularly in urban areas.

Congestion at the school gates is another particularly serious problem, with parents often double parking, or parking on yellow lines to drop their children off. The result is incredibly dangerous: small children weaving in and out of parked and moving cars at the school gate, many of whom are too small to be seen by drivers pulling in and out. Therefore, we are encouraging parents and teachers to be as proactive as possible when it comes to road safety.

Parents can ensure their children are wearing high-visibility vests and when cycling make sure they are wearing a safety helmet and that their bikes should are properly equipped with bell, lights and reflective strips. Teachers can do their bit by educating children in road safety best practice at an early age.”

The RSA and ESB Networks will distribute free high visibility vests to every child starting school in September.

Beautiful homes all over the County

Property

WONDERFUL HOME IN A GREAT LOCATION

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O. 53 is close to every facility including schools (primary and secondary), shops, doctor, pharmacy, Church plus is within easy access on foot to Ennis town centre and just a couple of minutes drive to pick up the motorway for Shannon/Limerick and Galway.

The property is in turn key condition and has several extra features to include solar panels and natural gas central heating.

The spacious and bright accommodation comprises: Entrance hall with porcelain tiling, livingroom with feature open fireplace, wooden flooring, guest W.C., open plan kitchen / diningroom with ultra modern fitted kitchen with porcelain tiled floor. Patio to rear garden.

Feature staircase to the first floor where there are three bedrooms, an ensuite bathroom and main bathroom.

The property overlooks a lovely green area and there is driveway parking for two cars. A side entrance with wooden gate for pedestrian access leads to a fully enclosed garden which is lawned.

This is a wonderful home, in great condition in a top class residential location convenient to everything.

MODERN: (left) Exterior with paved driveway (above) wonderful bright interior of kitchen and lounge area.

PROPERTY

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 31TH AUGUST 12.30 -1.00 PM

7 WOODHAVEN DRIVE, €280,000 ENNIS, CO. CLARE.

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OODHAVEN Drive is a mature, quiet, popular estate located within minutes walk of Ennis town centre, the new Ennis National School and the by-pass interchange on the Kilrush Road, making access to Ennis, Limerick and Galway effortless.

No 7 is very well located in a quiet cul de sac, overlooking a large open green area to the front of the development. This bright home has been recently renovated and offers bright spacious, family accommodation including an addition family room / study (with en-suite) on the ground floor.

The property is finished to a very high standard throughout. Cut Roof to allow for possible future conversion.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

4 CUL DAIRE LISSYCASEY ENNIS, CO CLARE

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34 BRAMBLE LANE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

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€229,000

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 31TH AUGUST 2.00 - 2.30PM

€190,000 COLLEGE ROAD, ENNIS,CO CLARE.

RAMBLE Lane is a development of semi-detached properties ideally located on the Limerick Road just minutes from the By-Pass interchange and beside St Flannan’s College, Treacys West County Hotel and Ennis Town Centre. Bramble Lane is a very popular development for families due to its proximity to the new Ennis National School and St. Flannan’s College. There are lots of generous green open areas giving the development a spacious, open feeling. No. 34 is a modern four bedroomed home with top quality finishes including modern fitted kitchen, timber flooring in dining and living rooms, Tiled bathrooms, floored attic and much more. The accommodation is bright and spacious with four generous bedrooms. The property has a good sized rear garden with patio and shed and is not overlooked and overlooks a large green area to the front.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

O. 4 Cul Daire is a superb 4 bedroomed detached home situated in the heart of the village of Lissycasey.

It is situated to the front of the development with access onto the N67 Ennis to Kilrush road and is within easy reach of Ennis town and the M18 motorway that connects it with Limerick and Galway.

The ground floor comprises an entrance hall, living room, reception room, kitchen, sun/dining room, utility room and a downstairs WC. On the first floor there are four bedrooms (one with en-suite and a walk-in wardrobe) and a bathroom.

Externally to the front there is a tarmacadam driveway with ample space for parking, mulched shrubbery beds and a stone-cut wall with mature hedge.

Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866 PSL 001212

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 31ST AUGUST 13.15PM-13.45PM

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€325,000

OLLEGE Road is ideally located in a quiet residential area beside Colaiste Mhuire and Maoin Cheol an Chlar and within walking distance of all amenities the town has to offer- shops, pubs, restaurants, cafes and Glor.

The property itself is approximately 60 years old and was extended to the rear a good number of years ago adding a kitchen area. The accommodation is bright and spacious with two well-proportioned living rooms, separate dining room, kitchen, utility, ground floor bedroom/study and WC on the ground floor. The accommodation is completed on the first floor with four large bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

€399,000 8 FIONOORA €160,000 CAPPAGH LODGE LAHINCH ,CO CLARE CAPPAGHBEG, BAREFIELD HIS stylish, contemporary two storey ENNIS, CO. CLARE

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HIS is an idyllic detached family home in an extremely sought after location. This magnificent home is located just 2km from Barefield Village and the M18 Limerick to Galway motorway.

Barefield benefits from an active local community including the “Tidy Village Association”.

Their efforts are evident to visitors in their planting, flower beds and litter control. The area also benefits from a strong community watch programme.

The ground floor comprises an entrance hall, reception room, double bedroom, shower-room, open-plan kitchen/living/dining area which opens into a sun-room. On the first floor there are three double bedrooms (one with en-suite and a walk-in-wardrobe) and a bathroom. This fine property also has the benefit of two attic-rooms on the second floor which could have any number of potential uses.

Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866 PSL 001212

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townhouse is located within minutes walk of Lahinch beach and golf course.

This property is finished to a very good standard throughout and has the added benefit of private underground parking. Accommodation is spacious and comprises 68 sq.m (732 sq.ft.) and includes a living room, an open plan kitchen and dining area, two bedrooms (one ensuite) and a bathroom. There is an external seating area and a communal decking area to the rear of the complex for the residents to enjoy. Due to the size and location of the property it would make an ideal holiday home. Rarely does such a well located and well presented property become available in Lahinch. BER D1. BER Number 110758455. BER Code 246.65 kwh/m2/yr.utility, ground floor bedroom/study and WC on the ground floor.

The accommodation is completed on the first floor with four large bedrooms and a family bathroom.

Contact: Danielle Kavanagh, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866 PSL 001212

29

LAST BUNGALOW IN THIS POPULAR NEW DEVELOPMENT

15 FORT VIEW €262,500 CLARECASTLE, CO CLARE

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ORT View is an extremely well located, quality new development of spacious bungalows by M. Fitzgibbon Developers Ltd. in the centre of the village of Clarecastle approximately two miles from Ennis town in an ever expanding village just a stones throw from the interchange for the Ennis Bypass.

The three-bedroomed, detached homes, which are energy efficient designed, have a A3 BER rating, are finished to the highest standard and offer bright, spacious family accommodation with lots of open spaces ideal for modern day living. Finishes including timber flooring and tiling throughout, modern choices of builtin kitchen, stylish fireplace with multi fuel stove in living room, built-in wardrobes in all bedrooms, tiled bathrooms, air to water under floor heating and much more. PRSA No. 002433.

Viewing is a must.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

APARTMENT B AVONDALE, LAHINCH CO CLARE

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€135,000

his two bedroom apartment is ideally located within walking distance of the beach and all amenities. Situated in a small complex of only 8 units, this first floor apartment is being offered for sale in turn key condition. Accommodation is spacious comprising 70 sq.m.

(753 sq.ft.) approx and includes an open plan kitchen/living and dining space, two bedrooms and a bathroom. These apartments have a secure intercom entry system and are serviced by elevators. Due to its size and location, this apartment would make an ideal holiday home or investment for long and short term lettings. Viewings are highly recommended. BER E1. BER Number 106106040. BER Code 324.31 kwh/m2/ yr.

Contact: Danielle Kavanagh, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866 PSL 001212

MOTORING

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

TOYOTA’S HYBRID SUV IS HUGELY SATISFYING YOU WON’T MISS DIESEL POWER IF YOU MAKE THIS HYBRID SWITCH

I

TOYOTA RAV4 HYBRID

’M honestly not sure how to explain it. You see, in the conventional sense, Toyota’s new RAV4 SUV is not all that brilliant to drive. It rolls a bit in corners. It doesn’t have the sharpest steering. And this front-wheel drive version can be a bit traction-limited at times.

And yet. And yet there’s just something about it. Something that I can’t quite put my finger on, but something that makes it feel hugely satisfying, and makes it a vehicle that you just never get tired of driving. Believe me that’s not always the case with some of the RAV’s prominent rivals.

So, what have we got here? We’ve got a chunky, square-edged mid-size SUV, which actually has quite dramatic styling. Now, I think it’s important to point out that the styling is very — hugely, even — colour sensitive. You need to pick a strong metallic, maybe even a white, and pair it with a contrast-colour roof for the RAV4 to look at its best. That angry, scowling, Kabuki-mask face won’t be to all tastes, but I have to say it’s grown on me a lot, as have the square wheelarches, and the fact that at the rear it looks more than a little like a Jeep Cherokee.

Step inside, and you’ll find an interior that seems a little plain at first. That was a deliberate act on Toyota’s part. The RAV4, you see, is meant to slot into the huge gap between the compact C-HR crossover, and the huge, traditional, Land Cruiser off-roader. So the RAV can’t have the almost Lexus-like cabin of the C-HR, with its dramatic diamond patterning. Nor can it be quite so utilitarian as the Land Cruiser inside.

Instead, it actually treads a rather successful middle-ground between the two — not as overtly stylish as the C-HR, but equally

not as farmer-spec as the Land Cruiser. So the cabin is initially quite plain, but you soon start to notice pleasing little details — the rubberised controls for the infotainment system and the air conditioning. The multiple storage shelves, also rubberised, which hold loose items nice and snug.

Most of all, you notice the seats, which are hugely comfy. At first, they feel like slightly over-stuffed armchairs which makes you think that they won’t be supportive enough on a longer journey. In fact, they are, and once again Toyota has managed to find a neat middle ground between two extremes — it’s a hugely comfy car in which to while away a long journey.

The hybrid system actually makes the RAV more relaxing still.

Keep it in Eco mode, and the systems response tends to make you drive it in a more relaxed, more economical matter (although there’s still plenty of power there — 218hp of it — if you put your foot fully down). You can switch it over to Sport mode, which really sharpens up the throttle response, and gets the electric motor to kick in earlier and harder, but that seems to fly in the face of the reason for having a hybrid at all.

Stick to relaxed mode, and you’ll achieve impressive fuel economy. Over more than a week with the RAV, we managed to get 6.0-litres per 100km on the motorway (that’s 47mpg), and even better around

town — as good as 5.5-litres per 100km (51.3mpg). That’s thanks to the fact that the RAV4’s hybrid system allows it to run on just the battery for significant periods in urban conditions, as much as 70 per cent of the time. So it’s three-quarters of an electric car, much of the time.

As for how it handles on the open road, well I’ve already mentioned the slightly slow steering, and the body roll, but somehow the RAV’s inherent appeal just shines through that. It lopes along with good ride comfort, and never seems to put a foot much out of place.

If we have one criticism, it’s that the infotainment system looks a bit old-fashioned.

The graphics that Toyota uses have just not kept pace with the best of the rest, and although it actually functions quite well (it’s remarkably easy to pair your mobile phone to it, not always the case with others) but the design could definitely do with an upgrade.

That apart, the RAV is actually kind of hard to beat. The hybrid system gives it more appeal than rival diesel models, yet it’s just as frugal in real terms. The styling takes a bit of getting used to, but ends up actually being quite handsome. It’s roomy and practical inside, with a 581-litre boot, and if it’s not the best to drive in outright terms, then it still manages to be curiously satisfying. A firm favourite.

FACTS & FIGURES Model tested: Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Sol Pricing: €39,590 as tested; RAV4 starts at €35,900 Engine: 2.5 four-cylinder petrol plus electric motor Transmission: CVT automatic, frontwheel drive Body style: SUV CO2 emissions: 125g/km* (Band A3 €190 per annum) Combined economy: 5.5 litres/100km (51.3mpg) Top speed: 180km/h 0-100km/h: 8.4 seconds Power: 218hp at 5,500rpm Torque: 221Nm at 2,0000-3,500rpm (engine only) Boot space: 581 litres Safety: EuroNCAP rating: five stars: 93 per cent adult; 87 per cent child; 85 per cent pedestrian; 77 per cent safety assist *Under WLTP conditions. Tax calculated on NEDC2 figure of 105g/km

MOTORING

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

RENAULT IRELAND CELEBRATING BIG PERFORMANCE IN JULY

R

TEN PER CENT MARKET SHARE FOR FRENCH GROUP IN SUMMER ’19

ENAULT Group Ireland enjoyed a strong start to the busy 192 registration period, finishing number one in the Light Commercial Vehicle market, and with a 10.2 per cent combined share of the new car and van markets for July.

Renault was also the clear winner in the LCV market in July coming in first position with an impressive 20.4 per cent market share, up 5.8 per cent on the same time last year, maintaining 3rd position year-to-date.

Master, Trafic and Kangoo took the top spots in the large, medium and small van markets respectively. Kangoo finished the month as the number one van in Ireland while Master maintains its leadership position in the large van segment year-to-date.

The electric vehicle market continued to grow in July to 3 per cent share of the market. The electric Renault Zoe, Ireland’s most affordable electric vehicle, had its strongest ever month, maintaining third position in the segment with 12.8 per cent share, up 7 per cent versus last July — and that’s with an all-new Zoe coming very soon. The electric

Kangoo Z.E. was Ireland’s best-selling electric van last month.

The Group achieved 8.1 per cent share of the passenger car market in July, with Dacia growing market share to 2.8 per cent.

Renault Group continued its leadership of the small car segment last month, with Clio taking 9.4 per cent share year-to-date, and with ZOE, Dacia Sandero and Dacia Logan MCV sales combined giving a share of 17 per cent year-to-date.

The ever-popular Renault Captur gave a strong performance in July, maintaining number 2 position on the podium in its class, while Renault Kadjar and Dacia Duster brought Renault Group to second position in the medium-sized SUV class with 11.1 per cent share in July. Renault Scénic is still the best selling compact MPV in Ireland, with a market share of 21.8 per cent year-to-date.

July saw over €34 million lent to Renault and Dacia customers through Renault Bank, and €170 million so far this year. In fact, Renault Bank financed 5 per cent of all new cars and vans registered in Ireland in July.

Renault’s network of 28 dealerships around the country has unmissable offers for August on new cars and vans.

Renault customers can avail of 3.9 per cent APR on the passenger car range, as well as 3.9 per cent APR, five years’ warranty, five years’ roadside assistance, and further local dealer offers on vans. Shockingly affordable Dacia is offering customers ZERO deposit and 4.9 per cent APR for August. These offers are available through Renault Bank, offering customers lower interest rates and further savings versus high street commercial banks.

Patrick Magee, Country Operations Director, Renault Ireland said: “We’re delighted to have had such a fantastic and positive performance for the start of 192. Our award-winning van range was the number one choice for Irish businesses, families are continuing to choose the versatile Kadjar and the stylish Captur remains ever

popular. Renault is a pioneer and leader of the electric vehicle market in Europe and it’s great to see our range of electric vehicles on the up again last month. In these uncertain times with Brexit, we provide stability for our customers with low interest rates from Renault Bank reducing the cost of owning a vehicle. We’re looking forward to continued success with the Group as we move further into 192.”

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34 SPORT

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

‘It’s never too late to swim’ Norma Cahill This week, as part of our 20x20 series we talk to Norma Cahill on life in and out of the water.

with PÁRAIC McMAHON

N

ORMA Cahill has conquered the world in a swimming sense in a career that has seen her accumulate National, European and World records.

It started in The West County, what is now the conference centre was once the location of a swimming pool where Norma spent many a summer. The journey continues but she credits Kilrush native Monica Doyle (née McNamara) for developing her competitive attitude in the water.

“Monica McNamara, she was fantastic and really encouraged people to start swimming. Then the Community Games came along, we had special training for that and I would accredit her with getting me involved competitively. The old pool closed and she moved her job to the pool in Ennis which had then opened a four length pool and we all followed her, she got the swimming club going in Ennis. She has always been instructing lifesaving in Kilkee, she retired last year. Up to last year she had been a very active instructor in Clare Water Safety”.

Next month Norma will be part of the Irish team heading to Italy for the Lifesaving European Championships.

It’s not a new experience for the Ennis woman who confessed, “I have a lot of world records”. The 2016 World Water Safety Championships saw her win four gold medals in the pool at Eindhoven, she has set world records in the 100m manikin tow and 100 manikin carry, as well as one European masters record in the 50m manikin carry plus another 2018 world record “in the medley”. In swimming as opposed to lifesaving, she set a 1500m European Masters record that stood for quite a time.

On average she will take to the water five times a week for a swim but her timetable as a PE and Maths Teacher at Rice College often dictates when. Encouraging secondary school students to take up swimming is a bit more difficult than those in primary school in l PROUD MOTHER: Norma & daughter Roisin Cahill at the beach. her opinion. “I don’t do a lot of aquatics during PE and it would be something a huge effort to get kids to the pool. If you that did not get to avail of such a luxury in I’d loved to have done more of but it’s difficult to slot it into a timetable or get the look at the amount of pools in Ennis with the primary school to take to the water regardless pool, they’re older children too so it’s harder hotels they are all busy, we could do with an- of their age. other pool in Ennis”.

Such positivity has been exuded to her to get them into the pool”.

“It’s never ever too late to swim, there’s children, Bernard and Róisín whose interSwimming is part of the curriculum for their primary school counterparts which so many options now with all sorts of adult national medals she proudly speaks of, she was unheard of in times gone by which re- classes, open water for adults, triathlons and describes her husband Sean as “a great water sulted in several people never learning how all that helps their swimming. It’s very im- man”, the kayaker was “instrumental in getto swim. “The primary schools are making portant,” Cahill said in encouraging those ting them paddling”, their kids have excelled

in the water and saved the life of one man in Lahinch two years ago.

Her pride is echoed when conversation turns to the many youngsters that have been under her tutelage at Ennis Swimming Club.

“I coach the little ones in the swimming club, I coached the older ones until my children moved on from Ennis Swimming Club.

When they moved on, I went back to the new little ones starting off and I really like that”.

Clare’s weekend performance at the Surf Lifesaving Nationals in Sligo was very pleasing, “to see all our hard work is coming to fruition, we won the Junior Boys, Junior Girls and the Little Nippers, we can see the result of our hard work”.

Coaching is nothing new to the former Colaiste Muire student, back in 1989 she was the physical trainer of the Clare senior hurlers.

Ironically, she was also profiled by The Irish Times the following year for her involvement with ‘Women plan to keep GAA on its toes’ the heading of Sean Kilfeather’s article.

Back then she was Murphy and Kilfeather’s observation of how hurling was incorporated into physical work show how Norma in a way was ahead of her time. Tony Kelly was the manager at the time, yes younger readers there’s more than one Tony Kelly to have played a part in the Clare hurling story and he explained then why he opted for the Ennis woman ahead of David Mahedy and the likes.

“It wasn’t a case of looking for anybody in particular. The appointment was left up to me by the county board and I decided I wanted a qualified, committed person. I decided on Norma, she had experience of training the second level teams of the Christian Brothers in Ennis, she lives locally and her experience as a competitive swimmer is also important.

She knows what it takes to compete and win at a high level and her qualifications are top class. The fact that she is a woman just didn’t come into it one way or the other. Norma has the complete confidence of the players. They were surprised at first but she gained their confidence and respect straight away. The lads responded well. They recognised that she is a professional who knows what she is doing and what she is talking about. There is a great spirit of camaraderie in the squad and Norma is part of it. The spirit of the side is better than it has been for a long time and she is partly responsible for that”.

Kilfeather’s article in The Times is still in Norma’s possession, maybe to serve as a reminder of her ability and character, this piece

by The Clare Echo may not hold such a place in her heart but it emphasises how far Norma Cahill has come and how much she has achieved.

SPORT

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

35

Éire Óg on form as four teams qualify for QFs Clare SFC review PÁRAIC McMAHON

R

OUND Two of the Clare SFC saw five games played across the weekend with St Josephs Miltown, Kilmurry Ibrickane and Ennistymon securing quarter-final places.

Reigning champions, MILTOWN made it two wins from two games when they faced off with KILRUSH SHAMROCKS, it finished 3-14 0-06. Since winning the intermediate championship in 2013, Miltown have qualified for the quarter-finals every single year thereafter. Micheál Murray, Kieran Malone and Cormac Murray raised the green flags for the David O’Brien managed side.

KILMIHIL bounced back from their first round four point defeat to Miltown to overcome NAOMH EOIN/O’CURRYS 0-15 2-06. The result ends any hopes the amalgamation had of reaching the knockout stages while also setting up a winner takes all clash when Kilmihil and Kilrush face off in two weeks.

They had two points to spare over LISSYCASEY in the first round but KILMURRY IBRICKANE increased their winning margin with a 2-16 0-06 triumph

over COROFIN. Keelan Sexton returned for his first championship outing of the year having spent the summer Stateside. The Bricks were in control from start to finish and led at the break by six points.

COORACLARE will battle it out with DOONBEG for a place in the quarter-finals, both sides lost their opening outing to Ennistymon with the Milesians the latest victims as they came out second best on the 2-13 0-08 scoreline. Cillian Rouine was in impressive form for the Magpies whose goal scorers, Cathal Malone and David Fitzgerald are both members of the county senior hurling panel.

Ten points from the boot of Gavin Cooney helped ÉIRE ÓG hit the ground running as they dominated CRATLOE and won out 0-16 1-09. Paul Madden’s side made their presence known in Cusack Park and will take great satisfaction from the display, however they are well aware one swallow doesn’t make a summer and their final round meeting with Clondegad will determine what happens next.

There was plenty of action in the intermediate championship with

KILFENORA holding off WOLFE TONES (0-15 1-10), KILDYSART’S strong run of form continued against NAOMH EOIN (3-12 1-08), SHANNON GAELS withstood a second half fightback from ST SENAN’S KILKEE (4-12 3-10) and ST BRECKANS laid down a marker against COOLMEEN (216 2-05).

RESULTS: SFC Group 1 St Josephs Miltown 3-14 Kilrush Shamrocks 0-06 Kilmihil 0-15 Naomh Eoin/O’Currys 2-06 Group 2Kilmurry Ibrickane 2-16 Corofin 0-06 Group 3 Ennistymon 2-13 Cooraclare 0-08 Group 4 Éire Óg 0-16 Cratloe 1-09 IFC Group 1Kilfenora 0-15 Wolfe Tones 1-10 Group 2Kildysart 3-12 Naomh Eoin 1-08 Group 3Shannon Gaels 4-12 St Senan’s Kilkee 3-10 Group 4 St Breckans 2-16 Coolmeen 2-05

Newmarket could be motoring

O

FTEN GAA clubs across the country do battle with the ultimate goal of winning county championships however one club in the Banner County finds itself in with a chance of winning a car.

Newmarket-on-Fergus GAA have entered a competition in association with TG4 Sport and Subaru for a chance to win a car which can then be raffled off to raise funds for the successful club.

All entries will be adjudicated on a provincial basis once the September 7th deadline passes.

25% of the marks in the judging process go towards the amount of likes received on the club’s Facebook page for the video post, the remaining 75% will be based on the submitted video. TG4 will announce the winning club live on air on September 15th.

“We are absolutely honoured that we get the opportunity to showcase our small but very close community,” a spokesperson for Newmarket-on-Fergus GAA told The Clare Echo. “It is a fantastic opportunity that could completely transform our little club and provide us with the vitally needed funds for a new clubhouse and facilities for our little future stars”.

In their submission, The Blues took inspiration from the club’s foundation featuring senior manager Bob Enright and coach Alan Barrett as Edward Bennett and Reverend James Loughnane in a video produced by Paschal Brooks. Over 1,000 people have already liked the club’s post on Facebook and they are appealing for more people to do so before the closing date. To vote, head to Newmarket-on-Fergus GAA on Facebook and like the pinned post.

CAMOGIE FIXTURES

FRI 30TH AUG U13A St Josephs v Clooney Quin Scariff Ogonnelloe v Feakle/Killanena Newmarket on Fergus v Inagh Kilnamona U13B Clarecastle v Ruan Kilkishen/Bodyke v Wolfe Tones U13C Kilkee-Bealaha v Parteen Cratloe v Corofin Ballyea v Banner Broadford v Smith O’Briens Whitegate v Eire Og SAT 31ST AUG SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP Fr McNamara Park: Truagh Clonlara v Kilkishen/Bodyke, 12.00pm Referee: Kevin Walsh

Fr McNamara Park: Sixmilebridge v Newmarket on Fergus, 2.00pm Referee; Adan Ryan Fr McNamara Park: Scariff Ogonnelloe v Clooney Quin, 6.30pm Referee: Kevin Walsh INTERMEDIATE CHMP’ Whitegate v St Josephs Inagh Kilnamona v Eire Og JUNIOR A CHAMPIONSHIP Wolfe Tones/Cratloe v St Josephs Ruan v Corofin Tulla v Broadford SUN 1ST SEPTEMBER JUNIOR B CHAMPIONSHIP Fr McNamara Park: Kilkee-Bealaha v Kilkishen/ Bodyke, 6.00pm Clarecastle/Ballyea v Parteen

Truagh Clonlara v Whitegate Scariff Ogonnelloe v Eire Og TUES 3RD SEPTEMBER The Clare Champion U16 Championship U16A Scariff Ogonnelloe v Clarecastle/Ballyea Kilmaley v Inagh Kilnamona Kilkishen/Bodyke v Truagh Clonlara U16B Ruan v Clooney Quin Broadford/Parteen v 6MB Feakle/Kilanena v St Josephs U16C Corofin v Whitegate Truagh Clonlara v Cratloe/ Wolfe Tones Crusheen/Burren v Newmarket on Fergus Banner v Eire Og

l TOP SCORER: Gavin Cooney of Eire Og

PGA Golf Professional

Photo by Martin Connolly

#PadraigKnowsGolf

Padraig McGrath

GOLF ANALYSIS

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB Tuesday Fourball Aug 20 1st Leo Herbert & Joe O’ Brien 37pts 2nd Fintan Mc Evoy & Michael Kearney 35pts 3rd Peter Lyons & Jim Felle 35pts Friday Open Singles.

Aug 23 1st Leo Herbert (11) 41pts 2nd Kevin O Connor (7) 39pts Gross Brian Gilligan (0) 38pts 3rd Ronan Herbert (9) 39pts 9 Hole open singles 1st Dave Kennealy (10) 21pts 2nd Gerry Hannon (17) 17pts Gent’s 4 Ball Sat Aug 24 1st Mick Hally(12) & Gerry O’ Connor(23) 42pts 2nd Ml Butler(17) & Ger Hanrahan(14) 41pts Scratch Sunday Sunday 25th August 2019 Sponsored by Ennis Dental Health Centre Senior Scratch Cup 36 Holes Winner: Sean Myatt(1) 144 gross 2nd Martin O’ Neill 155gross Ennis Golf Club beginner ladies results

Sunday August 25th 1st Aine O’Sullivan 2nd Edel Griffin KILRUSH GOLF & SPORTS CLUB August 18 KGC Men’s Singles 1 Con O’Donoghue (15) 40 pts August 24/25 Sat/Sun: 18 Holes 25 Anniversary Team of 3 1 Shane Carey (13), Damien Carey (17) & Brendan Carey (21) 88 pts Back 9 2 M Miniter (16), A Gilmartin (18) & D Hassett (22) 88 pts 3 Con O’Donoghue (15), Andy Turner (16) & Martin Flaherty (17) 84 pts August 23 Fri: Munster Group Open Mixed Team 1 T Prendeville, M Studdert & C Pyne 35.54 2 J Hehir, P McGibney, G Nolan & J O’Malley 37.00 3 P Looney, T Coffey & A M Donnellan 37.67 August 22 Thu: Lady President’s Prize Mrs Ann Brennan Ladies’ Singles 1 Shiela O’Grady (17) 35 pts 2 Martina Walsh (21) 33 pts Gross Niamh Whelan 32 pts (Back 6) 3 Annie Gallagher (11) 33 pts 4 Anne Hogan (31) 33 pts 5 Amy O’Shea (15) 32 pts

36 www.clareecho.ie

Classifieds CAR REPAIRS

ACCOUNTANCY

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

EDUCATION

CARER REQUIRED

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CLASSIFIEDS 37 CONTACT SALES

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38 PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

Best Daily Word Search

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES AUG 29

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QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, AUG 29 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz

2

The Boys & Girl of County Clare was filmed where?

Killaloe Miltown Malbay The Isle of Man

The Oscar winning Ryan’s 3 Daughter (1970) was primarily filmed in Kerry, however the

storm scenes had to be moved to the wilds of which location?

Bridges Of Ross Kilkee Cliffs Liscannor

The Cliffs Of Moher have not 4 appeared in which of the following movies Harry Potter Lord Of The Rings The Princess Bride

links singer and TV host 5 What Dusty Springfield to Clare?

She died in Clare Her ashes were scattered here She was born in Ennis Hospital

Gus O’Connors Brogans YOLO

Clare actress Aoibhin Garrihy 7 played which character in Fair City?

Treasa Dillon Neasa Dillon Mary Dillon

actor unveiled the stat8 Which ue of Richard Harris in Kilkee?

Leonardo Di Caprio Pierce Brosnan Russel Crowe

Name the Clare actress who 9 starred in BBC’s Call The Midwife.

Kelly Gough Simone Kirby Ann-Marie Doyle

Which Love Island contes10 tant was set to appear at the Queens nightclub last weekend?

Tommy Fury Amber Gill Molly Mae Hague

Brothers’ actor John 6 ’Step C Reilly joined in on a music

Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Photo by Arthur Ellis

l QUESTION 1: A documentary about surfing in Clare aired on RTE on Tuesday 13th, what was its title?

ANSWERS 6. Gus O’Connors 7. Neasa Dillon 8. Russel Crowe 9. Kelly Gough 10. Molly Mae Haguer

Ailleens Between Land & Sea Surf Dudes with Attitude

session at which famous Clare pub in 2015?

1. Between Land & Sea 2. The Isle of Man 3. Bridges Of Ross 4. Lord Of The Rings 5. Her ashes were scattered here

documentary about surfing in 120th,AClare aired on RTE on Tuesday what was its title?

Last weeks Answers . No ‘&’ in Coffee and Ice Cream . Man’s cone appears on right image . Balloon colour different . Telephone pole missing in background.

. Ice cream disappeared on red sign . Galway missing on water bottle . Man’s watch missing