The Clare Echo 30/05/24

GOULD

DOUBLE DELIGHT

Munster final ticket frenzy

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A SELL-OUT is on the cards for the Munster senior hurling final between Clare and Limerick. Tickets for the Munster SHC final between Clare and Limerick at FBD Semple Stadium go on general sale today (Thursday) at 11am.

Terrace tickets for both the Thurles venue’s Town End and Killinan End will be available to buy from Ticketmaster, as well

as from the usual Centra and Supervalu, while stand tickets will be distributed through County Boards in Clare and Limerick. Officials in Munster GAA are already predicting a packed attendance of 45,690 for the provincial decider on June 9th. It will be the first time since Cork and Tipperary clashed in 1968, 1969 and 1970 that the same counties will meet in the Munster SHC final for three successive years.

WITH just over one week to go to the highly-anticipated Local and European elections, 2024, this week’s Clare Echo carries a 36-page special supplement,

Arming you with all the information you’ll need when heading to your local polling station on June 7, we have profiled the 59 candidates running in this year’s local elections while also informing you about the local candidates in Ireland South.

l Conor Mullen, Nnabuike Nneji, Dylan Casey and Steven McGann with the CDSL Premier Division title and Clare Cup after they defeated Newmarket Celtic on penalties at the weekend

Photo by Joe Buckley

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Running with the wolves

Congratulations are in order for Clare’s Wolf Pack team of Gavin O’Connor, Euan Betts, Davy, Sean Bennett, Joe Betts, who recently competed in the Londis organised “Davy’s Fittest Superstars” event against 15 other teams from all over Ireland. The sporting extravaganza, which was overseen by Davy Fitzgerald, was held in Meath Eco Park and featured 14 of the most challenging obstacles from Ireland’s Fittest Family around a 1.5km course to help separate the fittest from the also-rans. The event was a charity fundraiser for Londis’ official Charity partner, Irish Hospice Foundation, with €7,983 in

Irish College won’t be

used for asylum seekers

INTERNATIONAL protection applicants will not be housed at the Irish college in Carrigaholt, writes Páraic McMahon

An offer was received by the Department of Children, Equality Disability, Integration & Youth for Coláiste Uí Chomhraidhe in Carraigaholt to be utilised to house asylum seekers but this was rejected.

Last June, the board of Coláiste Uí Chomhraidhe in Carraigaholt entered discussions with Clare County Council with a view to repurposing the building for Asylum Seeker accommodation for up to five years.

Minister for Children, Equality Disability, Integration & Youth, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) in response to a parliamentary question from Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) confirmed that the Carrigaholt college was not going to be used. He stated, “The significant challenges faced in meeting the accommodation needs of all those fleeing the war in Ukraine, as well as people

applying for international protection, has required a whole of government response to identify possible accommodation. Offers which require refurbishment are now considered under the auspices of the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage (DHLGH) refurbishment programme. As part of the refurbishment programme, DHLGH works closely with the local authorities to assess and progress viable State and pri-

vate commercial offers of accommodation in line with the Guidelines for Temporary Accommodation.

“While an offer was received for Carrigaholt Irish College, Kilcredaun, Carrigaholt Village, Co. Clare, under the Emergency Refurbishment Ukraine Programme (ERUP), this property is not currently under consideration for accommodation of Beneficiaries of Temporary Protection,” he concluded.

lCARRIGAHOLT: Coláiste Uí Chomhraidhe

total raised

McMahon left ‘very hurt’ by lack of support from senior party members

ONE of the longest serving politicians in Clare has admitted he was left ‘very hurt’ after he was told by Fianna Fáil members in his locality that he no longer had their support which influenced his decision to retire from politics.

Glowing tributes were paid to Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) at his final meeting of the Shannon Municipal District on Friday at the Radisson Park Inn in Shannon as he brought the curtain down on a 49 year career in politics.

Staff within the Shannon MD were in tears as the popular Newmarket-on-Fergus man gave was emotional when giving his final address at the meeting. “Thank you so much,” an upset Pat told the meeting. “I always try to stay positive. No matter what life throws you at stay positive, next week will be very different, meeting lovely, decent honourable people”. He said the decision to retire was “part of life”.

Director of Services, Alan Farrell commended Cllr McMahon for his 49 years of committed service to the county. “From talking to staff and members, your contribution has been invaluable. 49 years is a long time to put in for anything but you’ve done in with dignity”.

Clllr PJ Ryan (IND) quipped, “one of the senior members of staff said to me ye have the best social club of any Municipal District”. Senior executive officer, Anne Griffin stated, “It was a privilege working with you, always a gentleman to deal with, we learned so much from you, always took the helicopter view, I wouldn’t mind a trip in

the helicopter with you”.

Speaking on The Clare Echo’s political podcast, The Electoral Chair, Cllr McMahon revealed that he was told by party colleagues in his native Newmarket-on-Fergus that they would not be supporting him if he stood for the Fianna Fáil selection convention last November. “I was stepping aside which I thought was on my terms because of my age and the context of health which turned against me but I was surprised before convention when I found out I wouldn’t get the support I really needed to get over the

line so then I decided I was going to withdraw, I found out after that I would have had enough of votes but time moves on”. McMahon admitted, “I did feel hurt without a shadow of a doubt because I didn’t expect it, there’s 1000 scenarios and that would be 999, I’ve moved on. It was hurtful without a shadow of a doubt, my really good friends who were with me for two major situations, my youngest brother being killed and he wasn’t just my youngest brother but we were great friends, we had never one cross word against

us and then my wife dying. Loads of people know what sudden grief is like, how you overcome it is for each individual to take on but I was so lucky that close friends kept calling to me and to be fair to them they helped me to get over that”.

Prior to his eighth and last election in 2019, Pat had told The Clare Echo that politics helped bring him out of a dark place following the death of his wife Kitty.

“When you’re in turmoil and grief there’s people coming to you who are equally worse, you’re trying to help them but you can’t help your-

self but naturally they don’t want to hear that and rightly so, you’re a councillor and you have to try your best to help people, I know that but sometimes it was tough going. One of my friends said it actually helped me because it pushed me outside my normal working situation, you’re helping someone else without someone realising it, if you’re left in a hole of grief it can be difficult to get out of it, it can be very hard to self-analyse oneself”.

Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) speaking on The Clare Echo’s election debate said he was unaware of persons advising McMahon not to stand. “I didn’t have any part to play if there was a shafting. The way the party operates is we have a convention, you either come through or you don’t come through. The day of the convention Pat McMahon pulled out, I wasn’t aware that he was pulling out until I got a call from headquarters in Dublin to tell me at 12pm on the day of the convention that Pat McMahon would not be contesting, I had no inkling of that beforehand and that is the truth”.

Newmarket-on-Fergus native David Griffin (FF) who is seeking to win McMahon’s seat stated, “On the morning of the convention, I was not expecting Pat to pull out, I would have been worried about the numbers of what was going to come out of the shake up but the first I heard was when we got a phone call, I am not aware of any shafting, Pat has a huge amount of work put into the community and his record stands for itself”. He added, “We have a selection convention to select our candidates, I don’t know what goes on in the background”.

Clare Local Sports Partnership scores big win

CLARE Local Sports Partnership (CLSP) has been named “Local Sports Partnership of the Year” at the 2024 Sports Industry Awards hosted by the Federation of Irish Sport, writes Páraic McMahon

This prestigious award celebrates CLSP’s exceptional efforts in promoting sports and physical activity throughout County Clare. The award acknowledges the hard work of CLSP’s dedicated administration and sports development team. Their relentless efforts and passion have been instrumental in fostering collaborations with local agencies, local schools, sports clubs, and community organisations. These partnerships have created

a robust network that has significantly increased sports participation and improved community well-being in Clare.

John Sweeney, CEO of Clare Local Sports Partnership, stated, “I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all our staff, the board of directors, and our partner organisations. Their unwavering support and commitment over the years have been crucial in ensuring the continued success of CLSP. I also want to thank the Federation of Irish Sport for this award and for their ongoing support. This award is a shared achievement, and we are excited about the future of sports in Clare”.

Tim Forde, Chair-

person of Clare Local Sports Partnership, remarked, “I just wanted to take this opportunity to acknowledge the award CLSP received at yesterday’s Federation of Irish Sport Award night. It is with great pride that I congratulate everyone involved in the outstanding organisation that is the Clare Local Sports Partnership. It is a testimony to the efforts the Executive make daily to provide our services and programmes. So, huge gratitude to John and all the team. Also, I would like to thank the Board of Directors and the membership for their support and inputs, which, in turn, enables the successful operations and strategic progress of CLSP”.

lRETIRING: Cllr Pat McMahon Photo by Eamon Ward

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

lPRESTIGIOUS: Clare Sports Partnership chief Sports development officer Elizabeth Mc Nicholas, left, and ESF+ social inclusion and innovation sports officer Conor Mahon

Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

Johnny Flynn resigns from Fine Gael

EXITING Ennis representative, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) has resigned from Fine Gael over the lack of support received from party colleagues regarding the plans for the Ennis 2040 strategy.

An initial board member of the Ennis 2040 DAC, Cllr Flynn has become a vocal opponent to aspects of the strategy.

At last week’s briefing to elected members of the County Council, the Ennis native was shouted at by his party colleague, the Cathaoirleach, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) while Ennis 2040 Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Corrigan’s flippant remark, “Every time he appears he resigned from the DAC for a different reason, he resigned with a letter over the data centre,” about Cllr Flynn prompted the Chief Executive of the Council to intervene and issue an apology to the former Mayor of Ennis for the comments.

None of the Fine Gael councillors in attendance spoke in defence of Cllr Flynn at the briefing with Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) and Cllr Pat Burke (FG) instead voicing their backing for the Ennis 2040 strategy.

On Tuesday, Cllr Flynn confirmed to The Clare Echo that he was resigning his membership from Fine Gael. “I’m doing so as it has been made apparent over the last week that the two current Ennis Municipal District Fine Gael councillors and other sitting Fine Gael councillors continue to fully support what I consider to be destructive Council and Ennis 2040 DAC plans for Ennis town centre. This is despite that all councillors, including Fine Gael ones, received written confirmation last October that a petition signed by 3,700 people was handed into the council opposing the plans”.

A two-time Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Flynn was tipped as the favourite to top the poll for the second time in his career in politics for June’s local elections before announcing his decision to bow out in an exclusive interview with The Clare Echo back in February. He was first elected to Ennis Town Council in 2004, remaining there until its abolition in 2014 while he

has prevailed in three elections to Clare County Council (2009, 2014 and 2019).

Viewed by party colleagues as “almost independent”, Cllr Flynn never attended a Fine Gael Ard Fhéis during his 20 years as an elected representative.

As an independent citizen, he intends to work and campaign against plans of the strategy for Abbey Street car park, Parnell Street car park and the Post Office field. “In addition I oppose the related proposal to build a replacement car park on the green area of Waterpark House, Drumbiggle, Ennis. The development would remove the commemorative garden and a scarce public park located there.

“I believe the unnecessary demolition of six cottages and a modern bungalow at the Francis Street Site by Ennis 2040 DAC was not right at a time of a housing crisis. The site was I understand it in the possession of The Housing Department of Clare County Council until The Chief Executive handed it over to the Ennis 2040 DAC thereby removing the opportunity to build social homes on a town centre site for the elderly and disabled”.

Speaking on The Electoral Chair, The Clare Echo’s political podcast, Cllr Flynn gave his reaction to the tense briefing. “It was the very first time in my 25 years that a statutory notice of motion didn’t have a written response provided to the author of it and to the remaining councillors so in my view what we had was a PR exercise, it was to be for an hour, the standing orders say that 15 minutes would be the length of the question to address what was in the notice of motion, we had 45 minutes, 15 minutes from the Chief Executive not discussing the questions, 15 minutes from the Director of Service and maybe a little bit more from the Chief Operating Officer.

“I was absolutely appalled that statutory procedures which are our constitution, it was a PR exercise, I imagine everything said was from PR pieces and for the media to fill in their newspapers this week. It was silencing the democrats, then they started using the switch, these people had an open mic and we

were restricted to two minutes, the people in the public gallery were outraged”.

Flynn admitted he was shocked by the actions of Corrigan. “Kevin Corrigan took the opportunity at the very end to have a go at me on three issues, one that he claimed he was an employee of a public company, he is not, he is an employee of a private company and I had a senior counsel opinion on that. He is employed by a company which is set up by the Chief Executive under company law in 2014, it is a private limited company.

“He had a go on misleading facts, I was able to quote that they have organised a rolling three year PR contract with a Limerick based company, I understand €1000 has been spent, he said that wasn’t the figure and I was misleading with facts but I was able to demonstrate that they are trying to undermine Save Ennis Town as protesters, we’re not protesters, we’re con-

cerned citizens.

“In June 2021, Clare county councillors voted to establish Ennis 2040, that is factually incorrect, the Chief Executive has admitted he set it up. The third thing he was having a go at me personally for was me resigning as a nominated councillor from Ennis 2040 which I did in September 2022 and he said I had one reason but now I have a load of other reasons, I was shocked for somebody to come into a Chamber and make that claim, the Chief Executive I think was shocked as well and he apologised, he gave me the opportunity to come back, because I was forced to sign a confidentiality agreement the issues I had with it and brought to the board on my term there were the reasons but I couldn’t explain them but because I was lodging a planning objection with the data centre and the building it is.. It was a very unusual.”

Long-serving Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) also appeared as a guest on the

podcast. He said of the COO’s remarks. “There was no need for it, there is a word called respect and two words called mutual respect, those were observed like the commandments, politics, this that and the other thing didn’t apply but it is a very important word”.

Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) said of the conduct, “I’ve never seen such arrogance in my life”. He added, “I felt so sorry to see a man of the quality of Johnny Flynn being maligned in that way, what the Chief Operating Officer said was he was making it up as he went along to suit particular occasions. The Cathaoirleach of the day and it must be that the Chief Executive has angel dust because every time the Cathaoirleach is put in place by the elected members they have a duty to work for us in a neutral way to protect the constitution of the county and democracy but unfortunately I have to say the Cathaoirleach lost it”.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

lENNIS 2040: Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) Photo by Tom Micks

Supermacs MD hits out at red tape

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

THE MD of Supermacs, Pat McDonagh has hit out at ‘red-tape’ after revealing that he has spent “well in excess of €1.5m” on professional and legal fees to date on his stalled €10m Barack Obama style Supermac’s motorway plaza for Co Clare.

In an interview, Mr McDonagh said that he has been waiting nine and a half years to get the go-ahead for the project close to Ennis serving the M18 Limerick to Galway motorway and “no ground broken yet”.

Mr McDonagh first lodged plans for the motorway plaza on a site close in December 2014 and finally secured planning permission at his third attempt from An Bord Pleanala in October 2022.

However, the project has since stalled after Co Clare based chartered civil engineer, Michael Duffy took a High Court judicial review challenge to the An Bord Pleanala permission.

Mr McDonagh said that the planned Ennis project “is a prime example” of red tape in Ireland stagnating projects. He said: “I can’t say too much about it because it is going to go to the courts.” He said: “For any future projects, I wouldn’t like to

be caught up nine years and spent well in excess of €1.5m in costs on it to get what should be a fairly straight-forward grant of permission.”

Mr McDonagh said that the €1.5m plus has been

spent on fees on architects, engineers, surveys and legal costs.

He said: “Our feeling is that we will keep fighting until we get there.”

He said that when opera-

tional, the plaza will employ between 120 to 140.

Mr McDonagh said that the plaza will be in place in 2025 “if we are lucky enough to be successful”

Mr McDonagh said: “There

is so much red tape attached to things today that it slows down the whole process and unless there is leadership and guidance put into it, it will stagnate the country before very long.”

The Town Hall Bistro

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

The Poets Corner Bar

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

He said: “There seems to be an attitude that it is a free for all to object to anything that is happening.”

Asked if he wished to comment on Mr McMDonagh’s remarks, Mr Duffy declined to comment.

Michael Duffy has claimed that the Appropriate Assessment, which assesses potential adverse effects of projects on Special Areas of Conservation (SCA), lodged with the Supermacs planning application is flawed and therefore planning permission should not have been granted.

A previous Supermacs plaza application for the site was mired in controversy after it emerged in 2018 that bogus letters of support were lodged with Clare Co Council.

At the time, Supermacs stated that it was ‘horrified’ to learn about the bogus letters from the media “and disowns the actions taken and wants to distance itself completely from them”.

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

The December 2014 application was turned down by An Bord Pleanala in 2016 and Clare County Council granted planning permission for the current scheme in December 2020 and this permission was upheld by An Bord Pleanala in October, 2022.

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

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

lAn artist’s impression of the development

Dromoland welcomes Touring Golf Professional

Dromoland Castle welcomes Sara Byrne as its Touring Golf Professional for the 202425 Season. Last September, Sara closed off her summer in style, impressing home crowds by finishing as the top amateur at the KPMG Women’s Irish Open at

48 new beds for Ennis Hospital

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FORTY-EIGHT new acute hospital beds are to be put in place at Ennis Hospital over the next four years.

Across the Mid-West, an additional 156 acute in-patient beds will be in place in Midwest hospitals by 2028.

University Hospital Limerick is set to receive an additional 84 beds in this timeframe, with 24 going to Nenagh Hospital – while further down the line, 42 beds are ringfenced for St John’s Hospital in Limerick between 2029 and 2031.

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) on Wednesday announced a new plan to deliver 3,352 new beds nationally.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) (inset) stated, “These new beds are much needed in the two counties and I know they will be of enormous comfort to families in the region”. He said the efforts to get the additional beds for Ennis has

been “a long process”.

He continued, “If we are to keep people out of Limerick we need additional bed capacity and this follows through on that”.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) commented, “Ennis has a crucial role to play in helping to alleviate overcrowding in UHL – a point I have vociferously made to my colleagues, including Minister Stephen Donnelly, and the only way it can do this is by having additional capacity and an expanded scope of services”.

Deputy Crowe pointed out that in two recent meetings between Friends of Ennis Hospital, Minister Donnel ly and himself that these needs have been high lighted clearly. “I have long been outspoken in my belief that the political decision to downgrade the A&E in

Ennis back in 2009, leaving only one Model 3 hospital in the Midwest, was a retrograde step that never resulted in us getting this promised ‘centre of excellence’. I hope that we continue to see capacity increased at our hospitals so that we can ensure that some reparations are made to help with the situation we currently find ourselves in”.

He added, “Today’s announcement isn’t happening overnight – the 156 beds committed by 2028 will start to be rolled out by March of next year, while the 42 for St John’s will commence in 2029 and be in place by 2031 – but it’s definitely a step in the right direc-

“I’ll be pushing the Health Minister to prioritise these beds over the ones promised to other CHOs in the country, given the specific difficulties faced in our region”.

Dromoland

Photo by Brian Arthur

Our Lady’s Hospital should house international protection applicants

by

LANDS on which Our Lady’s Hospital are situated should be transformed into a government facility for housing international protection applicants, the county’s youngest candidate in the local elections has suggested.

Twenty one year old Ruairí Keenan (IND) from Oakleigh Wood noted the “ethical and moral obligation” Ireland has to “take in and care for those who are arriving seeking international protection, particularly those fleeing wars in countries such as Ukraine”.

A third of bed-nights in Co Clare are occupied are unavailable as a result and this needs to be urgently reconsidered, Ruairí said. “My solution is to purchase the land that houses the old Our Lady’s Hospital, apply to have it rezoned, delisted and have the eye sore of a building demolished and we build a state of the art government facility for housing international applicants. That is not creating a new problem but solving one. Those in Direct Provision on the same road together with other tourist accommodation facilities within the town be moved to this facility freeing up tourist beds and increasing visitors to Ennis”.

Valued at €1.25m in 2015, the site was sold at an online auction in 2018 for €750,000. The hospital was designed by William Fogerty, it opened as the Ennis Asylum in 1862, it became Ennis Mental Hospital in the 1920s

and was renamed Our Lady’s Hospital in the 1950s, the hospital closed in March 2002 and has changed hands several times in the subsequent two decades.

On how the funds would be sourced to acquire the building, Ruairí explained, “The in-

itial part would be a rezoning for Our Lady’s Hospital.

“Over the last two decades, we’ve had two plans, plans to buy with the land with funding permission and planning permission but then it goes to a thing of ‘oh we don’t want

you to knock the building because it is historic’, it is there 160 years and it has a bad reputation, if it was a tourist sight I’d say something but the most we’re getting out of tourism wise would be people doing things they shouldn’t be doing”.

Keenan told The Clare Echo, “Funding is a significant issue. The average cost for accommodation per asylum seeker per night is €75 in private accommodation in a hotel but then in a government facility the price is €35 per night so even if we’re talking 5,000 asylum seekers we’re talking about saving tens of millions every year if we do the upfront costs now. The Government allocates funds based on a percentage for each county, it is allocated off how much each county has, I’m not sure what our exact figure is but what I do know is we’d be saving a lot of money in the long run if we were to build a new direct provision centre where Our Lady’s is or if we were to go forward with one of the older plans for a new area for the hospital or for a four star hotel.

“We’re in desperate need of those as a town but the main issue back then was the issue of rezoning and if we were to convince them to come back to the table and I assume they have a sour taste in their mouths after the situation and I know I would if I was a private corporation but if we can get them back to the table which may not happen initially but a four star hotel is better than an abandoned insane asylum which has been vacant for thirty years and got burnt down twice”.

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

lACCOMMODATION: Our Lady’s Hospital, Ennis

Cahercalla Community Care officially opens Memory Care Ward

lHEALTHCARE: Pictured at the official opening of the Cahercalla Community Care Memory Care Ward were (clockwise from top left): Mayor of Ennis Municipal District Cllr Pat Daly (FF) cuts the ribbon; Pat Shanahan, Mowlam Healthcare, James O’Loughlin, Ennis Lions Club and Chair of Cahercalla Board Dr Michael Harty; Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and Dr Marie Connolly; Garech McGuinness, Infinity Lifts, Irene Caulfield and Dermot Hogan, Inn at Dromoland; Oliver O’Connell; Brother Seamus Donoghue OFM, Franciscan Friary Ennis, Dr Michael Harty, Cllr Pat Daly (FF) and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF); Sheryl Knowles, Fundraising Cahercalla Community Care and Dr Michael Harty; Criona McCarthy, Director of Nursing, Kate Burke, General Manager, Sheryl Knowles, Fundraising, Caroline McMahon, Activity Manager and Mary Murnane

Photos by John Mangan

Clarecastle Regatta returns on June 2

THE Clarecastle Regatta takes place this coming Sunday June 2nd from 2pm to 6pm.

The Regatta promises to be a day of fun with a wide range of events to thrill all members of the family. Returning firm favourites include children’s fancy dress parade (from the Church Grounds meeting at 1.45pm), dog show, bonny baby, children’s races, Long Puck across the water and best dressed lady competitions as well as a wide range of market stalls, vintage cars, live music and food.

Other events include the “Hanging Tough” challenge, Soccer Dart, amusements, farm animals, and Zorbs. There will be hurling shootouts, a baking competition with the Best Tart being judged. The water events will include boat rides, kayaking, Stand Up Paddle Boards and the highly anticipated homemade Raft Race!

The Regatta was revived over fifteen years ago and have been a resounding success offering the community of Clarecastle and surrounding areas the opportunity to meet and chat, up on the Quay, A real family day out. Donal Carey, Committee Chairperson stated “there is great excitement especially since the event came back after covid and once the flags go up on the river bank the enthusiasm starts to build in the community.’

“The flags are a mighty tradition that the Scanlon family have started in conjunction with the Regatta, led by Johnny and Ann, son Bernard, daughter Jane and Liz Murphy and we thank them for helping us get the place ready.

“Thanks also to John Power, the local Tidy Towns and all the lads who meet every evening down the quay who have helped in the tidying of the area and making the quayside as inviting as it is. It is a marvellous amenity and Regatta Day is when we get to show it off to its full potential.

“We continue this year with a children’s fancy dress parade to kick off the day. This was once one of the main features of the Regattas of old with some of our committee members having taken part themselves as children. There is always great chat when the local Wildlife & Heritage group post pictures on social media from the Regattas in 50s & 60s of the children marching in parades and we hope that the children of today can look back and

have as good a memory from next Saturday’s event”.

There has been mighty work put into our “village market” by Jade Nseula, with an array of food and craft stalls, many of whom return year on year. Local crafts showcasing some wonderful skills as well as a wide choice of baked goods, plants and some hot food.

Paddy Quinn has organised the music for the day and all the live music adds a great atmosphere to the day. This year’s lineup includes Rewind, 16 Tons of Jive and Acoustic +. We are hoping for great entertainment from these crowd pleasing favourites.

Dermot Moloney’s vintage cars display will have their usual stunning line up of vintage

cars and this year we might even have a new electric model close by to compare the evolution of cars throughout the ages. The local Men’s Shed have a target practice ball wall ready to test young and old, on their hurling skills. Paschal Russell designed the targets; whether that is a good or bad thing we won’t now until Saturday. We’ll have the long puck across the river too, a firm favourite of the day.

The Regatta is a day for people across Clarecastle, Ballyea, Quin, Newmarket On Fergus, Barefield, Ennis and the county to enjoy with a little of something for everyone! On

behalf of our hardworking Regatta Committee, we are looking forward to meeting everyone next Sunday June 2nd.

‘COVID was a plandemic’

ALOCAL election candidate has promised to build a prison for politicians if elected to Clare County Council, writes Páraic McMahon

London born Michael Loughrey (IP) is running for the Irish People party which have shared principles including ‘house the Irish first not the world’ and ‘sensible immigration not open borders’.

Living in Gort since 1989, Michael is running in the Ennistymon LEA for the local elections on June 7th. He lived in Tuam before relocating to Gort but the English born candidate said of his adopted country, “it was a beautiful place once, it is not so beautiful now”.

He joined the party which was officially registered as a political party in November 2023 when it began. “I’m not a politician, I’m an ordinary person like everybody else running in the party, we aren’t politicians but we have to make a stand against the doctrination that these mainstream politicians of Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, Labour, Social Democrats and People Before Profit all of those guys, I was listening to politics for a long time, I realise there is a lot wrong in Ireland, we want to reinforce family values back, the whole country has gone astray”.

Mulhall to leave role as Crowe’s

EX CLARE FM reporter James Mulhall is leaving his role as parliamentary assistant to Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF), writes Páraic McMahon

as a candidate in the Shannon Municipal District and previously completed an internship in the constituency office.

holder of a BA in Political Science and Sociology from NUIG and he completed an MA in Journalism at Ulster University.

As part of their protest, they also camped on Inis Cealtra and raised their banner on Holy Island. Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) described their actions as illegal and said they “desecrated” the protected structure and national monument.

Defending his actions on that weekend last August, Michael stated, “We went onto Holy Island because we did a sovereign voyage up the Shannon and the previous year, we put the banner up, there are only two genders, male and female”.

Cllr O’Brien said they “desecrated” the protected structure but Loughrey insisted, “We love our heritage, we didn’t do any harm to the area”.

l Michael Loughrey

Speaking to The Clare Echo, the retired stonemason explained why he put his name on the ballot paper. “I’m part of direct action, we’ve been over the last three years we’ve been doing direct action and trying to make people aware”.

Part of this “direct action” included protests outside libraries in Cork and Limerick, they attempted to protest outside Killaloe Library but did so on a day when the library was closed. The protests were against the availability of LGBTQ+ reading materials for children, the City Library in Cork had been the scene of rolling protests in 2023 and their actions resulted in “early closures” of the facility.

Loughrey when questioned by The Clare Echo admitted he didn’t read the books he was protesting about. “They are quite disturbing, I haven’t read them but we looked at various parts of these books, I wouldn’t read them books, I’ve seen various parts that we’ve read and shown to the general public, we’ve been into the libraries and said they’ve been contaminated with the ideology with the sexualisation of children, it is pornographic, we’ve never had that in Ireland, there is nobody against the ordinary gay person, children are like plasticene you can mould their minds”.

On Tuesday prior to the recording of Clare FM’s election debate with candidates in the Ennistymon LEA recorded at the headquarters of Clare County Council, security within the local authority had to be called after Loughrey began to kick up commotion.

“I don’t remember security being called,” Loughrey told The Clare Echo. “If security were called, it’s funny that you know more than me, nobody said security were called to me,” he added. He said one candidate though he was unable to name him had previously labelled Mike “a nutter, I don’t know which one is what but he called me a nutter”.

According to the 66 year old, “the mainstream media have caused massive damage to this country along with the politicians, you all work hand in hand, you don’t give a damn about us ordinary people, you are all caught up in a brainwashed idea,” he said.

A father of two, Michael said he did not get a vaccine from COVID-19 and labelled it “a plandemic”.

He commented, “where did the virus go, it all ended when everyone got vaccinated”. Loughrey added, “We’ve been censored, highly censored, you guys have everyone thinking there was a pandemic, it was a genocide”.

Members of the public have been conned, he claimed. “If they (people) are going to be brainwashed, I can only try to help them wake up, they’ve been conned. Dáil Éireann has a bunch of criminals, if I get in I’ll build a prison for politicians, I am sick and tired of the mainstream media, the Government and An Garda Síochána acting like tyrants against their own people”.

On the influence he can have as a councillor, Mike stated, “I’ll make sure hotels are available for tourists, all now they are only available for immigrants”. He remarked, “the mainstream parties are a bunch of treasonous people. We’re beyond the snarly talk, we don’t give a damn anymore, we’re fighting for our survival, we’re fighting for the indigenous people, you can put that in and call me what you like, people are waking up now”.

When it was put to him that it was very odd for a person to protest against a book they hadn’t read, Michael responded, “Let me get this through to you. The pages were shown and read out, if you were to, I didn’t read it, I didn’t read the whole book, you have to take little excerpts of the book to see how it is aimed at children, it is ungodly, it is not good and bad for our children’s future, it is turning all the children gay,” he claimed.

A member of Deputy Crowe’s team since April 2020 following his election to Dáil Éireann in February of that year, James is departing the role in the coming weeks.

The Clare Echo understands that the Offaly native is relocating to Co Cork where already has a new post lined up.

With several media figures in the county already throwing their names in the ring for a role as communications officer with Clare County Council, many of the same applicants are likely to consider taking on the job as PA to Deputy Crowe. Crowe confirmed that he is already working on filling the vacancy. Cllr Pat Daly (FF) and Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) are understood to have had initially expressed an interest in the role following Crowe’s election, they are some of the political figures that may be linked to the job along with Rachel Hartigan (FF) who is running

Announcing his departure, Mulhall said he had “more than four great years” as the parliamentary assistant to the Meelick native. He outlined that he was moving on with “very mixed feelings leaving such a great job and great office, but excited for the next opportunity. I’ve learned bucket loads in this role that’ll stand to me going forward in my career and will miss Cathal and our office, we’re a small team that puts a huge amount of work in to get the job done.

“I’ve every confidence that all of this hard work will pay off come General Election time! I’ll be starting a new role in a new location in the coming weeks and am looking forward to the challenge but until then, myself, Cathal and the entire team are still working away so it’s business as usual,” he added. Mulhall had been a reporter with Clare FM for three years and presented Farm Focus on the local radio station. He is the

Deputy Crowe paid tribute to his departing colleague whom he described as a “fantastic parliamentary assistant”.

He stated, “James has been an amazing colleague and friend and we will hugely miss him in our office team. James will continue to work in my constituency office on Francis Street, Ennis for the next few weeks and soon after that a new parliamentary assistant will be appointed. No ‘ball’ will be dropped during this transition period and I can assure all constituents that the ‘flat-out’ work that I and my office team undertakes daily on your behalves will not change one bit”.

Fellow Clare TD, Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) is still in the process of trying to hire a PA following the resignation of Kilkee native Mike Taylor in April.

lMOVING ON: Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and James Mulhall

Data centre figures will be 'much

AN ELECTION candidate in Ennis who previously worked in a data centre has said the figures mooted for the Ennis Data Centre will not come to fruition.

Polish native, Jacek Kazimierz Kwaśny (inset) was the final addition among the 13 candidates in the Ennis Municipal District for the local elections on June 7th.

Not long after turning 30 last month, he decided to put his name forward for the local election. “Initially I didn’t intend to be a candidate but then I said ‘hey I have some ideas, I’ll give it a go, even if I lose it will be a great experience but it will push me to interact more with the community,” he remarked of his bid for office.

Jacek moved to Ireland in 2007 with his parents and brother, they still reside in Cavan while he has spells living in Athlone

and Dublin for college and work before relocating to Ennis in November 2021 to take up a post as a software engineer with Vitalograph. “When COVID happened I went back home to support my family, because I was a software engineer I could work from home so I was the breadwinner for a while. As COVID was finishing and everything was coming back to normal I felt it was time for a new job and something new”.

Among his previous jobs include working in the Amazon data centre in Blanchardstown. Board members of the Ennis 2040 DAC have said there will be 400 permanent jobs and 1,600 during the six-year construction phase. Such figures are inaccurate according to Jacek. “I worked in a data centre myself, I don’t believe it is going to employ 450 people, when I was working in a data centre, there was six technicians, very little, loads of support maybe. On the best scenario, it will have 300 people maximum employed, it will probably be way less because you have data centres set up where everything is just maintenance, it is going to be way lower”. He added, “I would rather have housing there”.

From a small town in Poland called Sucha Beskidzka, the “small compact” nature of Ennis appealed to him. “We don’t have to go very far to reach a destination, I love that way more than Dublin because it was 30 minutes from bus to get to the city centre, from here it is walking distance. I cycle to work but if I get a puncture, I’m walking”.

“I talk to people, I talk to locals, I go from business to business, recently I went through all of Parnell Street entering a good portion of shops, I got really good feedback on the struggles they face”.

His canvassing approach is unique in that he will not be knocking on people’s doors. “I believe that people’s homes are their peace, you shouldn’t bother them at home. In the middle of town is a different story, it is a private space but your home is your own space and people should be left there. I don’t put my face on the posters either so maybe I am the quiet candidate, I also believe that genuine interest speaks, if people like what you are saying they will pass it forward and the word will spread”.

On how the public will become aware of him, he said, “I will try to talk to them at the very least. I had a situation where a woman, a very lovely lady, her son was attacked and nobody did

Although he is not involved with any groups or organisations locally, Jacek maintained he is known among business owners and restauranteurs in the town centre.

parliamentary assistant

lower' for Ennis - Jacek

anything, when she heard I was running she said ‘I don’t want to talk to you, you’re the same as everyone else’. I understand that because I had a similar mindset that everyone is the same in politics but as you grow older you see things are not all black and white”.

“I prefer to talk to people face to face, I will write on social media to expose myself but I would avoid putting myself on a pole, a Polish person on a pole right it’s a funny joke. A few businesses around here said they would put my poster on their door but I don’t want to burden businesses either,” he told The Clare Echo

Ennis 2040, littering, anti-social behaviour and parking are the big issues for the Ennis MD, he felt. “Ennis 2040 was something I looked at and said ‘hey this is a huge thing’ but the small on the ground things are not really addressed. Even now when I was walking down the street there was rubbish on the ground, something that can be easily fixed, the small things need to be fixed like rubbish and anti-social behaviour. What I’m hearing from people in Parnell Street and the Market is that kids, homeless people and junkies are causing trouble, they are simple things at first which proceed to something bigger.

“Parking would be nice to sort out, I’ve looked at the site which of the old school on the Kilrush Rd which was demolished and could be turned into very nice parking. In the market centre, it could be revitalised and bring the markets to the market square, I talk to a lot of people who said it was very big, farmers used to come down with produce, it was full, people were very happy with it but from my under-

standing there was a dispute and the farmers went somewhere else because of the white elephant, my goal would be to bring the farmers back and make Ennis more favourable to visit. Ennis is at its heart a music town and it would be nice to bring some of that back”.

He added, “I went through the Ennis 2040 plan, English is not my first language so some of the words required me to go to a dictionary, you think after 17 years you will know everything but then you go through simple things like that. I believe there are quite good ideas there but it is poorly executed, if there was more communication with the people it could have been avoided but also direct feedback could have been given way earlier to avoid the protests”.

According to Jacek, a security firm “basically overlooks Ennis Town” and they have a big role to play in assisting a clamp down on crime. “With the security around the town I was thinking about getting Gardaí, even one or two of them to go on patrols, I know they deal with a load of paperwork, maybe we could figure out something that it be delegated to somebody else. I know a security firm basically overlooks Ennis Town but we could delegate the paperwork to them, Gardaí should be on the streets protecting people”.

How a councillor can implement such measures is “difficult,” he acknowledged. “I don’t want to make promises and throw out empty promises. The answer to everything is often money and contacts so asking around and if security firms would be able to do that. We would have to talk with the Gardaí, see what they are struggling with and if we can help them out”.

Youngsters clean up at Community Games finals

St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games were represented by sixty three children at the National Finals which were held in Gormanstown, Co Meath and Longford over the weekend. They brought home 25 gold, 13 silver and one bronze. Pictured are U13 Mixed Cross Country winners Rowen Cahill – Ballynacally/Lissycasey, Aoibhinn Chambers – Clarecastle/Ballyea, Sadhbh Geary – Ballynacally/Lissycasey, Stephen Geraghty – Clarecastle/ Ballyea, Nicole Griffin – Ballynacally/Lissycasey, Glen Hughes – Shannon, Dylan Keane – Shannon, Matthew Murphy – Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry, Aoife O’Rourke – Ballynacally/Lissycasey, Finn Slattery – Corofin/Kilnaboy

Major conservation to go ahead at Killoo

A SIGNIFICANT heritage landmark on the outskirts of Clarecastle is to undergo a major conservation programme, writes Elaine Tubridy. Pre-dating the well-preserved abbeys of Clareabbey and Killone, Killoo Church and enclosed graveyard, set in peaceful pastureland just off the M18 motorway, is reputed to be one of the oldest in the Diocese of Killaloe and is deemed a recorded monument.

In recent years, concern was expressed about the condition of the ivy-clad church, which, if left unattended, will destabilise and destroy the structure. Damaged headstones in need of repair, some dating back to the 1750s, and the finely decorated Stamer Vault, memorialising the Stamer family, who came to the area after the Cromwellian settlement, are contained within the Church.

This prompted the formation of the Company, Killoo Church Restoration Projects CLG to address these issues.

“Killoo Church and graveyard is hugely treasured and appreciated by the community of Clarecastle. It is believed to have been founded by St Lua, a grandson of the 5th century King of Thomond,” said local historian Frank Barry, a member of the Company formed to create a Conservation Management Plan.

“The site forms part of an earlier ecclesiastical development indicated by concentric enclosures on imaging undertaken by geo-spatial specialists KGSS, which, if further explored, may give the site an even greater significance. Its centuries-long tangible connection to our local community is what continues to inspire this conservation project,” he added.

To ensure best conservation practice and with the full backing of the landowner, Killoo Church Restoration Company engaged accredited Conservation Architect, John Deaton, to draw up a Conservation Management Plan, grant-aided by

National Monuments through Clare County Council. “This was just the first step of a much longer journey,” said Company Secretary, Gerard Lynch. “A further application has recently been approved by the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage with a grant of €100,000 under the Community Monuments Fund. This allows us to implement comprehensive engineering recommendations by P. Coleman & Associates, which outline the short to medium-term work that is required, to preserve the integrity of the structures,” he added.

National support for the Conservation Project has been hugely welcomed by the Company, a welcome shared enthusiastically by public representatives and the local community. The Company is confident that it will have the goodwill and support of the local Community in ensuring that the project is delivered and that heritage of the area is preserved for generations to come.

SUN 9TH JUN

31 MAY - 02 JUNE IRELAND BIKEFEST FREE OPEN EVENT!!! 12TH & 13TH

SEVEN DRUNKEN NIGHTS THE STORY OF THE DUBLINERS

THUR 20TH JUN

Museum hosts Liverpool Céilí Band exhibition

THE Liverpool Céilí Band are the focus of a new exhibition currently running at Clare Museum in Ennis, writes Elaine Tubridy

On this the 50th anniversary of the Fleadh Nua, the band is sharing its history in the form of photographs and anecdotes from the band’s accomplished career and some of the musical instruments used by the band.

The Liverpool Céilí band originated in post-war Liverpool and became famous as a traditional Irish band, entering its first Fleadh Cheoil competition in Thurles in 1959 and subsequently becoming the first non-Irish band to be crowned All-Ireland Champions in 1963 at Mullingar, a feat they repeated in 1964 at Clones. They won the Oireachtas Céilí Band titles in 1962 and 1963 in the Mansion House in Dublin. The Band toured Ireland regularly and the United States in 1967. They also played on Sunday Night at the London Palladium and at the Albert Hall.

The band were regular visitors to County Clare during the 1960s and 1970s, often competing against local bands such as the Tulla and Kilfenora Céilí bands. They had a strong Clare influence, with founder member Seán McNamara’s father hailing from near Kilmihil. The McNamara family were regular visitors to Clare and Seán was evacuated to Kilmilhil during World War Two. From his teenage years he was playing music in the ‘house dances’ of the area. Fellow founding member, Eamon Coyne, accompanied Seán on many of these occasions. Together they were picking up many local tunes and were influenced by the Clare style of fiddle playing. Because of these links the band became known as a ‘Clare band’ in Ireland and made regular appearances at the Ceol Kilmihil festival in the 1970s and at the Fleadh Nua in Ennis.

Notes

HSE LIVING WELL PROGRAMME

HSE Mid-West Community are running the ‘Living Well’ programme, a free of charge self-management programme for people with long term health conditions or their carers. The programme, which is ran in a relaxed and friendly manner, addresses topics such as fatigue, sleep, pain, stress, physical activity, healthy eating, difficult emotions, low mood, depression and general wellbeing. It takes place over 6 weeks, 2.5 hours per week with up to 15 people on the programme. A programme will commence in Ennis Primary Care Centre, Station Road, Ennis on Wednesday June 12th @ 10.30am to 1pm and continues to Wednesday July 17th inclusive. Prior registration is necessary, call Philip at 087 1799396.

3,000 people over the age of 18 living at home still in Ennis.

1,200 people of all ages on the social housing list in Ennis.

385 new homes in Ennis held up in Judicial Review. These young people are entirely fed up and annoyed at the slowness of progress.

The current Planning Bill should be amended to give young people and families the opportunity to live separately and start a home.

The Government should

consider two options:

(1) doubling the area allowed for exempted development from 40 sq m to 80 sq m which could easily be starter homes or rightsizing from the family home. This could be done with a simple change, possibly just to existing regulations but as the Planning Bill is going through, it could be set more clearly in law.

(2) adopt the US and international model of allowing ancillary dwelling units on lots of appropriate size, up

Edwina crowned Businesswoman of the Year 2024

MANAGING CEO of Centra Ennis Edwina Donnellan has been named Family Businesswoman of the Year at the 2024 Image PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards, writes Elaine Tubridy Edwina has been involved in the family business for the last 25 years, which employs 30 fulltime staff and 10 part time staff. As CEO of the business Edwina is focused on longevity and future-proofing the business, incorporating a number of upgrades and

enhancements to the store, enhancing the overall customer experience.

This year Centra Ennis introduced the Donnybrook Fair range in store, alongside Frank and Honest premium coffee all while supporting local Clare food and drink producers.

Edwina said: “I am truly honoured to have been awarded the 2024 Family Businesswoman of the Year Award for our Centra store in Ennis, Co. Clare. I have been involved with our family business from the age of

19 and I’ve seen consumer habits, trends and experiences change. One thing that has always remained constant is our connection to the local community and I would like to thank our customers and staff for their continued support.

“Small businesses are facing a lot of challenges in recent years and we have worked hard to ensure that our business remains an inherent part of the community, retaining employment and catering to consumer needs.”.

to 100 sq m. , with a simplified planning process with the default to approval rather than the endless challenge. These moves would allow for additional starter homes and densities which can support proper public transport. Unless we become more radical on housing, younger people will see no pathways in Ireland and will continue to emigrate. While progress is being made, it needs to ramp up and we need to consider new proposals and new thinking.

lHONOURED: Pictured at the 2024 Image PwC Businesswomen of the Year Awards alongside winner of Family Businesswoman of the year Edwina Donnellan (second from left) are Marlena Morasiewicz , Joan Donnellan, and Wing Chan

lHISTORY: Ray Rooney, author of The Spirit of the Reels, The Story of the Liverpool Céilí Band and Máire Rooney, eldest daughter of Seán McNamara, founding member of the Liverpool Céilí Band

Airport expecting busiest weekend of 2024 with over 52k passengers

OVER 52,000 passengers are expected to travel through Shannon Airport for the June Bank Holiday weekend, writes Páraic McMahon

Passenger traffic at Shannon Airport is up eight percent year-to-date compared to 2023, standing at 753,000 versus 700,000 up to the end of May for last year.

Airport management expect this weekend will be the busiest of the year to date as the summer holiday travel period gets into full swing.

CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine stated, “Our team have been working hard to ensure that passengers coming to Shannon Airport over the busy Bank Holiday period and throughout the summer

can have an enjoyable and easy experience travelling through our airport.

“With additional capacity and increased frequencies on a range of Ryanair services and the recent introduction of Delta’s new service to New York-JFK, passengers have a wide variety of destinations to choose from. This summer we will operate 33 services to 11 countries in popular locations in Europe, the UK and US”.

She added, “We have passengers flying Shannon from all parts of Ireland as they discover the convenience and ease of using our airport. There’s also a steady rise in tourists arriving to explore the Wild Atlantic Way, which will significantly benefit the regional economy this summer. We thank our passengers for choosing to fly Shannon”.

Delta increase capacity on Shannon to New York service

DELTA Air Lines has increased seat capacity on its new daily Shannon to New York-JFK service, writes Páraic McMahon

For the first time since 2019, Delta returned to Shannon Airport with its new service taking flight on Saturday.

This new route has the overall capacity to generate up to 46,000 passengers through Shannon Airport. Delta Air Lines will deploy the larger Boeing 767-300 aircraft for the Shannon – New York JFK service, in place of the Boeing 757-200 aircraft that was originally planned. This larger aircraft will provide over 3,600 seats through the summer.

Speaking at a gate celebration to mark the occasion, Mary Considine, CEO of The Shannon Airport Group said: “This new service to New York-JFK is a significant boost for our airport and a further endorsement of the growing demand for transatlantic seats into Shannon. The additional capacity provided by the use of the larger Boeing 767-300 aircraft will provide even more choice for passengers in this region and inbound

visitors, travelling to explore the vibrant tourism offering along the Wild Atlantic Way. This direct service also provides increased busi-

ness connectivity for our customers. She added, “In addition to our New York/JFK services, we also

have services to Boston, Chicago and New York/Newark. We are delighted to be able to facilitate this demand for services through Shannon with valued airline partners such as Delta. Transatlantic travel from Shannon Airport has never been easier with our efficient Pre-clearance facility, combined EU/TSA security screening system and Mobile Passport Control App, which will help to ensure a seamless and comfortable airport experience for our passengers through the busy summer travel season ahead”.

Matteo Curcio, Delta’s Senior Vice President Europe, Middle East, Africa and India added: “In response to strong demand, we are delighted to restart our service between Shannon and New York-JFK, offering our customers convenient travel options between Ireland’s west coast and North America and furthering business opportunities for the entire region. This summer, we will be offering around 3,000 weekly seats between Shannon and the Big Apple, benefiting customers looking for adventures in the U.S.,

and American visitors looking to enjoy some of Ireland’s most wellknown attractions”.

Commenting on the significance of the new transatlantic service, Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America said, “Tourism Ireland warmly welcomes the relaunch of Delta’s daily nonstop flights from New York to Shannon, boosting visitor numbers from the United States. Tourism Ireland aims to sustainably support local economies and communities and the relaunch of this service will deliver visitors right to the heart of the iconic Wild Atlantic Way, which marks its 10th anniversary this year. As an island destination, there’s a proven correlation between access and growth in visitor numbers. Tourism Ireland is committed to working with Delta, Shannon Airport and our other key partners, to drive demand for this transatlantic flight, and all other services to Ireland, helping to maintain our vital network of routes and services.”

Shannon was the first Irish airport that Delta chose to fly into back in 1986.

lHOLIDAY READY: Hugo Donoghue (3), Sofia Mullally (2), Louis Donoghue (4) and Sienna Mullally (5)

Photo by Arthur Ellis

lYAY-DAY: Brenda Nugent, Delta field director airport customer service, Clare Black, Delta general manager sales Europe, Mary Considine, CEO Shannon Airport Group and Nadia Clinton, Delta regional sales manger UK and Ireland with Delta Crew

Photo by Don Moloney

Access road to Seafield Pier to be repaired

REPAIRS are due to be completed to the access road leading to Seafield Pier in advance of the bathing season, writes Páraic McMahon

Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) in a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District asked that the access road be repaired “in time for the upcoming bathing season”.

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Alan Kennelly advised, “A section of the L-2090 leading to Seafield pier is included in the 2024 Schedule of Municipal District Works”.

ADVERTORIAL

Speaking at the May sitting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Murphy remarked of the road numbers, “we know the road numbers off by heart and where they are. I just happened to drive it the other day, the day before notice of motions were due, it is in an awful condition, there are lads fishing and walking there. “I appreciate the response and I look forward to seeing the work done, fishermen are trying to do work which is challenging at the best of times,” he added.

His motion was seconded by Cllr Ian Lynch(IND).

Surfacing ‘special’ road 'won't break the bank'

A ROAD along the Wild Atlantic Way in West Clare “won’t break the bank” if officials in the local authority decide to make a late addition to the roadworks programme for this year, writes Páraic McMahon.

An appeal from Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) (inset) for surface dressing to be completed on the L2006-27 from Hugh Roche’s hill westwards met resistance.

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare Municipal District, Alan Kennelly outlined, “The L-200627 is not included on the recently adopted 2024 Schedule of Municipal District Works. It can be considered for inclusion on future Schedules. I have spoken with the Area Engineer and the local

roads senior General Services Supervisor and asked them to ensure that the road is maintained in a passable condition”.

Speaking at the May meeting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Keating commented, “it is a special one because it is on the Wild Atlantic Way, it is a pity we can’t do that bit of road because the rest is quite good.

“We’ve some cycling races coming up. We’re stretched for funds but we can strain a point to get this done, it will be appreciated by local people and cyclists. We have to support the people and have the roads in the best shape we can”.

According to Cllr Keating, a former financial advisor, completing the job “won’t break the bank”. He recalled, “We had a problem when Paddy Matthews came to Kilkee, he told us the Wild Atlantic Way was finishing in Kilkee but it has come on a bit further”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) stated, “it is a road I travel a lot, there isn’t 100m in it, the piece if we did a drainage we’d know it is a major section on the road, whatever works we do we’ll do the drainage alongside it”.

Local election Green Party candidates Audrey Flynn (East Clare) and Susan Griffin

Clare) chat about what it is to be Green and what it offers in terms of enhanced quality of life.

BEING Green is not just a political party, it is a movement, a way of life. It is about social justice as much as the environment. It is about connected communities as much as it is about clean food and water. It is about warm homes, affordable energy as much as it is about biodiversity and clean air... It is about quality of life for all of us.

I’M AUDREY Flynn from Mountshannon running in the Killaloe LEA. I have a grown-up family and two grandchildren and became a member of the Green Party in 1993 out of concern for future generations. The Greens did not invent the climate and biodiversity crisis. They were the ones who saw it coming and have been working ever since to secure a viable future for ourselves and our planet. We do this by working with, and not against nature. My quality of life is enhanced by being able to remain hopeful about the future knowing there are many people like us, working hard to secure that hopeful, sustainable future; from 48,000 warmer, cheaper homes retrofitted last year; to 100 homes a day putting VAT free, solar panels on their roofs, sell-

ing excess electricity to the grid; to the tripling of land farmed organically since 2020, and so much more.

A vote for your local Green

mini forest

Party candidate is a vote for a safe, sustainable, prosperous, future-proofed Clare where people and place thrive together.

Susan Griffin takes her child for a

As a mother of two young children, my quality of life is enhanced by being able to cycle with them to school, stopping to chat to neighbours along the way. By investing in greenways and providing funding for local communities for walking and cycling infrastructure, the

this funding.

(West

I’M SUSAN Griffin from Ballyea and I am running in the Kilrush LEA.

Green Party is enabling people throughout the country to lead healthier, more connected lives; funding for Active Travel has increased substantially since the Green Party entered government, going from €45 million in 2019 to €190 million in 2022.If elected, I want to help local communities to access

l

bike ride

lAudrey Flynn stops by her

lSeafield

Photo by Pat Flynn

Land use key to securing rural future

by Elaine Tubridy

A NEW forum in Ennistymon will hear how all landowners must be empowered to deliver for the public good and lead the way in the transition to more sustain-

able land use practices.

Changing Landscapes, the first-ever conference of its kind will provide a platform for investors, policy- and decision-makers, and environmental professionals to engage with grassroots practitioners

to explore innovative and transformative approaches to regenerating the land.

Hosted by Hometree, the charity behind a multi-million euro plan to restore habitats across the island from Donegal to Cork, the one-day

event will hear from experts in areas as diverse as forestry, planning, public finances, renewable energy, conservation and industry.

The conference, which takes place today (Thursday) at The Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, will take a holistic view of the environmental challenges we face, with speakers proposing creative as well as practical solutions in a programme designed to be both productive and provocative. It will explore the stark challenges facing stakeholders, emerging financing mechanisms for action, proven projects delivering impact today, new farming models and unlikely alliances of creative problem-solving to regenerate land and communities.

Ray Ó Foghlú of Hometree says, “The Irish landscape has changed radically, in many ways for the worse. In the coming decades we need to undo the damage we have done, as well as implementing critical new land use strategies. Despite the promise of significant public and private investment, key stakeholders such as farmers and foresters are more disillusioned than ever, and some are opting out. This conference is about connecting

these key stakeholders with new ideas, technologies and funding streams to ensure a resilient rural future going forward.”

Matt Smith of Hometree added, “Change is already happening. I would be concerned that, without careful consideration, we will see land transition from local ownership to the ownership of funds and corporations looking to capitalise on the emerging value in carbon or biodiversity. My hope is that, with good planning, we can support the current land owners to maintain their connection to the land. I believe that we can have nature restoration at scale alongside close-to-nature farming - these go hand-in-hand. This conference will bring disruptive thinkers together in a room with key stakeholders to sketch out a new future where communities, the state, the not-forprofit sector and business work together to realise a shared ambition.”

The Changing Landscapes, The Falls Hotel in Ennistymon on Thursday May 30th 2024. Tickets available from https://www.hometree.ie/changinglandscapes with discounts available for NGOs, land workers and students.

North Clare artists raise €12,825 in support of Gaza

A GROUP of artists in North Clare have come together to raise money for a charity aiding the people of Gaza, writes Elaine Tubridy.

The North Clare Artists for Palestine held a recent art auction event and raised €12,825 to date for Médecins Sans Frontières, Ireland’s Gaza Emergency Fund.

Founder member, Fiona O’Dwyer explained the origins of the group. “We got together at the end of October or early November. We all attended the weekly Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign rallies in Ennis. We were conscious that we could do something through art to raise money. First, we designed and printed tee shirts, then discussed other ideas such as a concert, but settled on Art Action for Gaza. The group includes musicians and visual artists, so wanted to focus on art broadly. We secured the courthouse gallery in Ennistymon as our venue, and put together a music and art event. In response to an appeal to artists worldwide for donations of art, we received a large number of postcard sized artworks to auction. Larger art works were donated by local artists. So, on the day of the art auction, we had music, poetry, speeches, tee-shirts, as well as an art exhibition and an auction. Members also cooked Palestinian food for the attendees.”

“In Palestine, great value is placed on art

and culture so we wanted to reflect that,” Fiona said. Other members of the NCAFP include Paul Dooley, Jackie Askew, Marianne Potterton, Sarah Fuller, Finola Graham and Maria Kerins.

“But lots of other people came onboard”, Fiona continued. “Some of us follow a Gaza

poets society online, and their poems provided almost a time line of the conflict, bearing witness to the terrible events taking place. So, we printed those poems and attendees read them, so that was very powerful and people were very engaged. Refaat Alareer’s poem

“If I must die” was recited in Irish. The Brit-

ish-Palestinian author Isabella Hammad said “Basically, it’s easy to feel useless, and from there it’s a short leap to despair. But I don’t believe we can afford to despair, nor do I think despair is ethical.” So, we felt we had to act and not feel useless. Everyone who participated gave their time and their work for free.”

“There is also a lot of censorship of Palestinian artists. It is done routinely in Palestine by the Israelis. But it is happening in other countries now, especially Germany, Britain and the USA- Palestinian art exhibitions have been cancelled. So, we wanted to counter that. We raised awareness as well as money, both were focuses of the event.”

“Colin McGrady gave a moving opening address on the role of art and culture in demonstrating and promoting solidarity. Tony Whelan filmed everything on the day and made short videos for social media and so we have an archive. Students from the Limerick College of Art, and the Burren College of Art also donated works which we were delighted about because students are so important to movements for Palestine worldwide”, Fiona concluded.

The North Clare Artists for Palestine gofundme page is still open for donationshttps://www.gofundme.com/f/make-inknot-war-art-action-for-gaza#

lOUR-LAND: Hometree, the charity restoring native Irish woodland through its Wild Atlantic Rainforest Project, will explore how rural land can be used for the benefit of all

lMAKE INK

East Clare musicians unite for Gaza

PEPPER’S Bar in Feakle was the venue for a session featuring some of East Clare’s finest musicians who came together to raise money for Palestinians, writes Elaine Tubridy East Clare’s Seisiún Mór for Gaza had the best of local Irish music and guest speakers, raising over €2,858 for the charity Medical Aid for Palestinians.

The event was organised by a local committee of Councillor Pat Hayes, Irish Seed Savers Association Executive Director Elaine Bradley and Claire Ní Grianna of the Ireland-Palestine Solidarity Campaign. The capacity crowd were entertained by a whose-who of East Clare musicians.

Erica and Pat O’Connor on fiddle began the evening, accompanied by Brendan Hearty on guitar, playing some enchanting and mesmerising East Clare tunes. This was followed by the renowned concertina player and teacher Mary McNamara and her daughter, fiddler Sorcha Costelloe, a TG4 young musician of the year who blended tunes effortlessly together.

Broadcaster Paula Carroll and her daughter Eva delighted the audience with a cupla sean nós harmonies, even asking the audience

to join in enthusiastically for a rendition of Oró Sé do bheatha ‘bhaile. Mark Donlan and Andrew McNamara were joined on stage by percussionist Tommy Hayes and instrumentalist Brendan Hearty who lifted the crowd with some lively tunes.

The finale featured dancing to the Brendan Hearty Band who were joined onstage by Anthony Thistlewaite of the Waterboys and Sawdoctors fame, for a welcome opportunity to take to the dance floor for all those in attendance.

Due to illness unfortunately singer songwriter Jimi Cullen was forced to cancel, and we extend our sympathies to Elaine Bradley who was also unable to attend due to the bereavement of her father.

There was also an informative aspect to the evening, with guest speakers highlighting the plight of the people of Palestine and calling for urgent support for Gaza. Palestinian Law student Tayeb Awwad, who recently escaped from Gaza with his family and is living locally, told the story of his best friend, who was murdered by lsraeli soldiers as he lit a candle for remembrance of those lost and as a symbol of hope. He thanked the Irish people for welcoming

him and supporting Palestine, predicting that they would endure for as long as it takes for Palestine to win its freedom. Meelick historian, academic and author Dr Tomás MacConmara, a former chairperson of Clare IPSC recalled his time in Palestine. In a moving speech, he pointed to the deep support among Irish people for the people of Palestine and called on the Irish government to do more.

The IPSC’s Claire Ní Grianna, who hosted the evening, said of the event, “I think Irish people, given our history, resonate with the people of Gaza on a human level, and unlike previous conflicts, we’re seeing a genocide unfold in front of our eyes in real time. We know that in Palestine, they are aware of our support and it means so much to them. It’s the ordinary people here supporting the ordinary people on the streets of Palestine through our stories, music and culture.

“The funding for UNRWA, who provide critical aid on the ground in Gaza, was cut by some of the larger countries. Our government increased their funding, but every penny is so badly needed, what we raised here tonight will really count. It’s up to each person to do what

they can in their sphere of influence, continuing to talk about what is happening in Palestine, boycotting goods to and from illegal Israeli settlements and calling for divestment and sanctions.”

Cllr Pat Hayes said, “The sadness of looking at the

starvation and suffering in Gaza, we felt we needed to do something to get financial support to humanitarian aid agencies. Governments can talk but this is local support for an international crisis. When we started asking musicians, they all said ‘Yes’, so

we knew from the start that there was good will, we were overwhelmed by the support. Meeting a Palestinian family, the father was a university lecturer, the mother was a school principal, and they left family behind that they have lost contact with, some of them, may be no longer with us. So, the sadness in their hearts touched us all. The son of that family, Tayeb spoke very movingly about his experiences and his hope for the future at our event.”

Musician Pat O’Connor said it was “a very special evening, that just got better and better, and will be remembered for a long time.”

Claire, Pat and Elaine would like to thank all those who came out and supported this event, to sponsors who donated very generously to the raffle prizes and to all those who helped create this memorable evening. A special thanks to Grainne Vaughan, local artist Pete Brown and Brian McCarthy for decorating the venue in Palestinian flags and artwork, creating an inviting atmosphere for this very successful evening.

The IPSC hold a march and rally in O’Connell Square, Ennis every Saturday from 11am and all are welcome to join.

Standing for East Clare – Fiona commits to community

AS WE approach the local elections on June 7th, Fiona Levie explains some of her key priorities if elected to represent you in the Killaloe Local Electoral Area.

As one of the 800 households renting privately in the Killaloe LEA, Fiona understands the worry and instability linked with renting privately under the current broken system. She will work with the council to speed up public housing allocations, and fight for the council to directly build more housing for the people of Clare. Fiona is also passionate about tackling vacancy and dereliction in our communities.

In recent years we have witnessed a haemorrhage of young people from East Clare. Fiona has lived and worked abroad for several years, understands the importance

of broadening horizons, and values the benefits of working and living in other cultures and places. But we must attract our young people back to East Clare if our rural communities are to grow and thrive. We can do this by investing in community, art and cultural spaces, sufficient childcare services, public transport connections between rural and urban centres for commuters, and we must provide attractive, sustainable outdoor spaces, public amenities and playgrounds for families and young people.

Fiona has extensive experience in business, and understands the importance of digital hubs for those who work from home, or wish to start up a new business. The council must continue to innovate on services currently provided by cultivating affordable and attractive

support spaces for remote workers, and continue to provide digital services fit for the needs of our growing community in East Clare. Finally, Fiona believes that our local government badly needs reform. We need to deliver more power at a local council level, so that communities have a greater say in how their areas are developed. We need to reduce layers of bureaucracy and lower dependency on decision-making at a national level, which is time-consuming, inefficient, and costly. As someone who is passionate about achieving a more equal society, Fiona looks forward to serving the whole of East Clare as an elected member of Clare County Council.

lSEISIÚN MÓR: Organising committee member Claire Ní Grianna with Musician Pat O’Connor (Right) and Clare IPSC Chair Finbarr MacGabhann

l Killaloe LEA map

Biodiversity Week concludes

An action-packed week of events celebrating Galway’s biodiversity and natural heritage concluded on Sunday.

Hosted locally by Galway County Council, National Biodiversity Week featured a countywide programme of free events that showcased the many aspects of biodiversity including family days out in beautiful natural amenities to information and discussions about threats to the local environment. The weeklong programme of events also included a bat walk, a talk about the bumblebees of Connemara, a sustainable gardening course and a biodiversity table quiz.

First affordable housing scheme gets go-ahead

AN BORD Pleanála have given Galway County Council planning approval for a 88 house development in Claregalway, writes Páraic McMahon Galway County Council in conjunction with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is proposing to develop 88 new residential units divided into 39 houses and 14 apartment buildings on a 2.7-Hectare site owned by Galway County Council at Lakeview Road.

Included in the scheme are the first affordable homes to be delivered in County Galway under the Government’s Housing For All programme. The project, which also features a crèche and community playground, will now progress to detailed design before being tendered for construction. It is envisaged that construction works will commence in 2025.

Cllr Liam Carroll (FG), Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council said the scheme will deliver much needed housing for the area. “I have been impressed by the quality of the design proposed and I welcome the fact that the scheme includes for landscaped open spaces and a playground facing Lakeview Road which will be accessible, not only the to the residents of the scheme, but to the entire community”.

According to Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, “The development is in a highly desirable area, with local services and schools on its doorstep, and within a 10km commute to Galway city. Uniquely, this de-

velopment is in the Galway Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan (MASP) area and, as it is situated in a Gaeltacht, a number of the new units will be restricted to use by those who can demonstrate the ability to preserve and protect the language and culture of the Gaeltacht”.

Michael Owens, Director of Services complimented the staff of the local authority’s Housing section and the external design team led by VHA Architects for their work involved in bringing the proposal to this stage. “One of the main features of this proposal is the considerable number of different unit types and buildings being offered, which are complemented by high quality useable open spaces,” added Mr. Owens. “The proposal is in response to the envisaged variety of residents that will want to live in

this new development”.

The Baile Chláir scheme is the first Galway County Council own development under the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ policy that will include for affordable housing in the county. The development includes 2 four-bedroom, 19 three-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom houses and 14 apartment buildings made up of 15 three-bedroom, 21 two-bedroom and 13 one-bedroom units. The houses are proposed to be 2 storeys high, while the apartment buildings will range from 2½ to 3 storeys high. Ther development further includes car parking, hard and soft landscaping, site clearance works, roads, footways, amenity facilities, public lighting, signage, connections to existing services, and all ancillary site development works.

lNEW HOMES: Artist’s impression of the development

Cuir aithne ar theanga agus chultúr na Gaeilge

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

LEARN and practice some Irish phrases and songs, try out and dance a Clare set, experiment with some hurling skills, and more. This Dé Sathairn, an chéad lá de Mheitheamh/1st of June, ag 1.30pm, Glór, Inis. €6

FEAKLE FEST ON TG4 / FÉILE

AN FHIACAIL AR TG4 I bhFiacail i gCo. an Chláir a bhe-

as an clár ‘’Hup!’’ san oíche amárach, Dé hAoine, ar TG4, áit a mbeidh féile cheoil an bhaile faoi lán seoil. AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH?

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

Imeachtaí/Events:

• Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM

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

• INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com

• AN SCAIRBH – ‘’Lón i nGaeilge’’, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé “An Gáirdín’’, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

ELECTION COUNT

TREACY’S WEST COUNTY

June 7-8, 2024

Two seats up for grabs in Ennis, predicts Flynn

by Páraic McMahon

ENNIS’ five sitting councillors should be returned with Sinn Féin likely to take one of the two remaining seats in the Ennis Municipal District, a departing councillor has predicted.

Automatically Fine Gael are going to lose a seat in the Ennis MD before a vote is counted having failed to get a replacement candidate since February following Cllr Johnny Flynn’s (FG) decision not to contest the local elections on June 7th.

Both he and Cllr Ann Norton (IND) are not seeking re-election while the sitting five of Cllr Mary Howard (FG), Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), Cllr Pat Daly (FF) and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) will all appear on the ballot paper.

Challenging candidates include Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), Bridget Ginnity (GP), Tommy Guilfoyle (SF),

Jacek Kazimierz Kwaśny (IND), Ruairí Keenan (IND), Amanda Major (IND), Seamus Ryan (LAB) and Hilary Tonge (SD).

Speaking on The Clare Echo’s political podcast, The Electoral Chair, Cllr Flynn outlined, “Political anoraks have said to me that in a group of seven you will always have two that will lose out so with myself and Ann out, these particular political watchers feel the sitting five are quite safe. I can’t say whether that is the case or not but that is from people watching from the last 25 years.

“It looks as though the sitting five are safe and that there are two possible seats up for grabs, whether Ennis 2040 and support of that becomes a serious issue that might alter it, I think eight of the 11 have raised concerns with the plans”.

Both Barefield, where Cllr Norton received a base of support, and the Tulla Rd

where Flynn resides, are now open ground for candidates.

“The population of Ennis has grown from 25,000 to 28,000, the Municipal District has another 6,000 if not 7,000, you have a Barefield vote that

Cllr Ann Norton would have had a very strong connection to, there is nobody from Barefield”.

Flynn continued, “The geographics of an area are important, Paul Murphy was

in Clarecastle on his own for a long time but you have Tom O’Callaghan on the Kildysart Rd, Tommy Guilfoyle in Clarecastle and Clare Colleran Molloy in Ballybeg so it is quite concentrated.

“Tommy Guilfoyle is running a strong campaign, he has been campaigning since before Christmas, he has a strong team and is making an impact, he is well known in the Cloughleigh area where he is a postman, I find him quite personable.

“It is very difficult to call, it is very volatile this time round. The Sinn Féin vote will be strong and there is a strong Green vote, I would have got a lot of a Green vote, I always saw myself as a Blue Green as an environmentalist but I wouldn’t be an ideological Green. The environment has to be protected but you have to be able to run a society and support people. It is very interesting”.

Of the sitting five, O’Callaghan has never been elect-

ed before. He faces a “different challenge” according to Johnny.

“I noticed that a lot of the sitting councillors, I haven’t noticed Tom putting up posters, he is at a disadvantage if the other sitting councillors are putting up posters, there was an attempt for people to agree on posters but I think posters are very important.

“I agreed not to put them up in 2019 and we nearly had a poster free zone, I think Tom has challenges that other sitting councillors don’t have, he is only there for two years but I’ve been impressed with him, he is well able to articulate concerns on democracy, transparency, accountability, he is very well versed and prepared when he comes to meetings because he has read his papers, he puts down very well written notices of motions asking questions, I think he has more challenges than the other four”.

n Cllr Johnny Flynn broke the news of his political retirement to The Clare Echo’s Páraic McMahon. He believes there are two seats up for grabs with the five outgoing councillors expected to do well in the polls

Photo by Tom Micks

n Scenes of jubilation from the 2019 count including (clockwise from top right) Michael Begley, Róisín Garvey, Mark Nestor and Mary Howard

Occupation: Additional needs assistant at St Anne’s SS

Top priority: Provision of more social & affordable housing

AFIRST-TIME candidate, Antoinette was added to the Fianna Fáil ticket in December. She was previously one of five candidates to go forward at the party’s selection convention in the Ennis MD but the directive was to select three contenders. Since her addition to the ballot paper, she has criticised the Abbey Street car park plans in the Ennis 2040 strategy.

From Hermitage, she lives in Cloughleigh in one of the Council owned estates in Ennis, an area which helped to elect another first-timer for the party, Mark Nestor (FF) back in 2019. She is the cousin of two-time All-Ireland winner, Ollie Baker and has strong family connections to Barefield, an area where votes will be up for grabs following the exit of Cllr Ann Norton (IND). Among the items to decorate the Christmas Tree belonging to her grandfather John Baker was a photograph of Charles Haughey.

She has worked as an additional needs assistant at St Anne’s SS for over two decades. A cancer survivor, Antoinette is anxious to improve local health and support services. The mother of two boys is married to Museliu for over twenty two years, he is a well-known soccer referee in the county so she’ll be hoping LE24 is a case of her political career kicking off rather than having the final whistle blow before it begins.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Barrister / County Councillor

Top priority: Lobby for Ennis A&E, stop premature deaths

QUIN native Clare is on the cusp of a third term on the County Council. It all started with a dramatic 2014 election when a margin of three votes separated her from fellow parishioner Ger O’Halloran (FG) in claiming the final seat in a marathon count in the Ennis MD where there was a whopping 27 candidates. Her 2019 Council election was less dramatic with Clare more than doubling her vote from 584 to 1,184. This time round, Fianna Fáil’s first female councillor is expected to receive more votes in Kilnamona. She contested the 2016 General Election, transfers following her elimination on the sixth count helped to reelect Timmy Dooley (FF).

Following Cathal Crowe’s TD (FF) election to the Dáil, she became only the third female Mayor of Clare, serving from February to June 2020. She has twice been the Mayor of the Ennis MD. A staunch Ennis 2040 advocate, she was part of the steering group that devised it and currently sits on the Ennis 2040 DAC board.

Her unwavering support for Ennis 2040 may curtail her ability to pick up an abundance of transfers from candidates affiliated to Save Ennis Town, indeed in a bold move she has adopted the slogan ‘Love Ennis Town’ in her election literature. Among her achievements of this term are transforming the public realm in Ballybeg which improved footpath and lighting.

Clare and her husband Tony will be moving on from Ballybeg soon having commenced refurbishment works on their new property at 1 Clonroad but they’ve no intention of her relocating from the Council Chamber.

Occupation: Full-tim public representative

Top priority: Deliver social & affordable housing

SITTING Mayor of the Ennis MD, Pat often describes himself as a true Townie given his steadfast backing for Éire Óg GAA where he is a former Chairman.

It has been a testing year as Mayor with unprecedented tension among councillors in the town over the Ennis 2040 strategy, making the job of chairing meetings quite tricky.

Before entering political life, he worked for his family business in Parnell Street after finishing school in St Flannan’s College.

He was the first chairman of the Parnell Street Traders back in the early ’80s. A former parliamentary assistant of ex Minister and TD, Tony Killeen (FF) from 1993 to 2011, Daly views himself as a safe pair of hands.

It was a nervy 2019 election, the ex Mayor of Clare was returned alongside Cllr Ann Norton (IND) without reaching the quota on the final count. Hailing from the Gallows Hill, Pat was first elected to the Council in 1999 when he topped the poll in the Ennis electoral area with 1,351 first preference votes.

He was the second candidate elected behind Joe Carey (FG) in 2004. Pat was the fourth of five candidates elected in Ennis East in 2009 and the fourth of seven candidates returned in the Ennis MD in 2014.

Two of his closest friends, Des Neylon and Pat Fitzpatrick have passed on to their eternal reward during the current term. He has called for the relocating of the taxi rank from Parnell Street to Bank Place and the delivery of hundreds of new parking spaces for Ennis by 2029.

ENNIS MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Bridget Ginnity

Party: Green Party

Occupation: Environmental Scientist

Top priority: To include climate and nature considerations in all issues

NARROW streets, a friendly atmosphere and good facilities prompted Bridget’s move to Ennis in the 1990s, three decades on she wants the make the county town a better place to have housing, transport, environment and live.

She is bidding to become the first Green elected in Ennis since Brian Meaney (GP) in 2009, she is the first candidate for the party since 2014 when Gerben Uunk ran and amassed 92 first preferences, Meaney had defected from the Greens to run for Fianna Fáil where he lost his seat.

She is a member of Save Ennis Town and is strongly opposed to plans for a data centre on the outskirts of Ennis. Since August 2022, she has been the Clare PPN Environment Representative on the Local Community Development Committee. She has also been involved with organising the Ennis Book Club Festival and is active within the Ennis Sub Aqua Club and Clare Haven.

In an attempt to make it easier for the people of Ennis to use public transport, she compiled a timetable of Local Link’s schedule which she has circulated online.

An avid swimmer in Ballyalla, she is a member of the Ballyalla Bravehearts. Ginnity lived in Denmark and Finland for over ten years. An environmental scientist, her foray into the field will be an experimentation to see if the electorate of the Ennis MD are in favour of having a Green voice among them.

Sinn Féin

Occupation: Postman

Top priority: To help people by listening attentively, representing and delivering solutions

HAVING been campaign manager for Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) when she was a Sinn Féin candidate for the General Election in 2020, Tommy oversaw the party electing a TD in Clare for the first time in nearly 100 years. Now, he’s trying to orchestrate his own victory when vying to double Sinn Féin’s representation on Clare County Council and see them have a presence in Ennis for the first time since the 1920s.

Based in Clarecastle, Tommy is the son-in-law of former Fianna Fáil Cllr, Bernard Hanrahan (FF). He is Chairman of Sinn Féin’s Cumann in Ennis, naming this after Peadar Clancy without the permission of his family has caused controversy.

He has served as Vice Chairman of Clarecastle GAA club and has been heavily involved with gaelic and ladies football teams with the Magpies including their U21B success last December.

A founding member of the Francis Street Alliance, the Cork native was among those to protest against the Council’s plans for the demolition of the six cottages on the Ennis street. Tommy is also involved with the Clare Council of Trade Unions and the Clare International Brigades Commemorative Collective.

For twenty years, he worked in the electrical maintenance department of Shannon Airport as a qualified electrician, during this time he was elected to the Board of Directors for Dublin Airport Authority (daa).

The Cork native has been a member of the Council’s Social Development Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) and has not been afraid to criticise the lack of housing delivery in the county. Now working as a postman, Guilfoyle is expected to deliver a strong election performance and claim one of the seven seats in the Ennis MD.

Party: Fianna Fáil

Antionnette Bashua Baker

Party: Fianna Fáil

Cllr Pat Daly

Party:

Tommy Guilfoyle

ENNIS MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Fine Gael

Occupation: Full-time county councillor

Top priority: Deliver affordable & social housing

Although her own political career began in 2009 with her election to Ennis Town Council, politics has always been in Mary’s blood with her father Michael Howard (FG) a Senator from 1977-1987 and 1989-1997.

In 2014, Mary was elected to Clare County Council on the twentieth count and retained her seat in 2019 when topping the poll in the Ennis MD. Whether she returns such a strong position is dependent on if there is a backlash among the electorate for those closely associated with Ennis 2040 DAC where Mary is a board member. In 2016, she was unsuccessful for runs for the Dáil and Seanad.

The Chapel Lane Market was established by Howard in 2015, for the past nine years she has led a musical instrument appeal where collected items are donated to local schools. In June 2020, she fulfilled a lifelong dream with her election as Mayor of Clare, an AGM when elbow bumps were the embracing form of congratulations as opposed to hugs and handshakes.

She has campaigned for BreastCheck and the HPV vaccine plus improvements at the Shanaway Rd junction and restricting the use of vapes to prescription only.

She has clashed repeatedly with Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) during recent months in the Council Chamber. Currently Chairperson of Ennis Tidy Towns, Mary will be anxious to maintain a tidy portion of the vote in the Ennis MD.

Jacek Kazimierz Kwasny

Party: Independent Occupation: Software engineer

Top priority: To finish roadworks as soon as possible

POLISH native Jacek moved to Ireland with his family in 2007, his parents and brothers still reside in Cavan while he has had stints living in Athlone, Dublin and the family home before relocating to Ennis in November 2021 to take up a job with Vitalograph.

Not long after turning thirty last month, Jacek decided to put his name on the ballot paper in the Ennis MD to put forward some of his ideas and vision for the county town.

He is currently not involved with any local groups or organisations in the county but says he is a familiar face to many business owners and restauranteurs in Ennis.

Rubbish, anti-social behaviour and parking have been flagged by Jacek as key issues during his canvass. He believes there is potential to bring the Farmers Market currently held in Roslevan on Fridays back to the Market in Ennis. Jacek has taken the approach of not calling to constituents homes to try secure their vote. Having previously worked in a data centre, he has said the figures from Ennis 2040 DAC on the employment a data centre on the outskirts of the town would generate are incorrect and instead maintained housing should be prioritised. The irony of a Polish native being against the use of poles for electioneering purposes is not lost on him and Jacek knows he has a big pole to climb in order to become the first county councillor from Poland elected in Clare.

Party: Independent

Occupation: Retail assistant

Top priority: To properly represent the next generation of voters

OF THE 59 declared candidates in Clare, Ruairí is the youngest in the field at twenty one years of age. The Tulla Rd is seeing the end of a political career on the County Council with the exit of Cllr Johnny Flynn (IND), success for Keenan who resides in Oakleigh Wood would see the birth of a new political career.

The Rice College past pupil had always earmarked running for the Council in 2029 and has opted to go forward in 2024 offering a fresh, young voice for local government. He said the potential of getting elected would serve as a stepping stone for a future career in politics. He works in Liddy’s Eurospar and has focused his canvass on large estates in Ennis, as one of the later entrances into the race he is unlikely to have the time to build up a profile on areas in the hinterland of the Ennis MD.

His father Kevin is known in soccer circles, his mother Mary hails from Liscannor while his older brother Eoin is also regarded in the local soccer scene, lining out at centre-midfield for Bridge Utd. Ruairí is in the process of doing a diploma in accounting but his immediate focus is working on the sums to see if he has a fighting chance of winning one of the seven seats on offer in the Ennis MD.

Party: Independent

Occupation: Energy consultant

Top priority: Working closely with the community regarding sustainable development

BUILDING on her return of 200 first preference votes in the 2019 election is the goal for Amanda in her second run for a seat in the Ennis Municipal District.

Over the intervening five years, she has been a member of both the Green Party and Fianna Fáil, she put herself before the Fianna Fáil membership twice, losing out in votes to fill the seat vacated by Mark Nestor (FF) and in the selection convention for this local election. She resigned from the party before announcing that she would once again run as an Independent.

The eldest of six children, Amanda relocated to Ennis in 2007 and prior to that lived in Co Monaghan, Scariff and Shannon. When she did arrive in the country, the mother of three resided in Direct Provision and was among those calling for the system to be scrapped.

A single mother of four children aged from four to twenty, Amanda is involved with Clare PPN, the Association of Nigerians Clare, Women’s Network and Clare Volunteers. She worked part-time previously with Clarecare while studying for a degree in sustainable building and energy engineering at TUS. She is one of the residents to have moved into the new social housing development, An Cosán Gheal in Ennis and is now eying up taking a spot within the surrounds of Clare County Council.

Occupation: Full-time county councillor

Top priority: To work with all stakeholders to enrich our community

CO-OPTED to Clare County Council in 2007 following the election of Joe Carey (FG) to Dáil Éireann, Paul has remained there ever-since. This will be his first campaign not having the presence of Deputy Carey to assist him on the canvass with the Clare TD out of action since last March.

Promoting Ennis in a positive light, improving accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists at the Clareabbey Roundabout have been items regularly flagged by Cllr Murphy over the current Council term along with appeals to tackle illegal dumping at Clareabbey. He has been a central figure in securing funds for the town and village renewal scheme in Clarecastle and helping to bring about the Clareabbey Walkway.

Murphy has twice served as Mayor of the Ennis MD, in 2017 and 2020, his second time with the Mayoral chains was more testing, occurring in the midst of the pandemic and the implementation of a temporary mobility plan which saw pedestrianised streets introduced in Ennis. However this was tame in comparison to the flack faced by Paul for criticism of those against traffic calming measures, bollards and armadillos in Clonroadmore which prompted him to lambast “licenses for life” among elderly drivers in February, it wasn’t until The Clare Echo’s election debate three months later that he apologised for such remarks.

The Clarecastle man received more board appointments than any other councillor in Clare following the 2019 election but only one of the nine involvements, being on the board of Limerick Clare Education Training Board, facilitated expenses.

Ruairí Keenan

Amanda Major

Party: Fine Gael

Cllr Paul Murphy

Cllr Mary Howard

Occupation: Postmaster

Top priority: Ensuring full transparency and compliance procedures are fully adhered to

OF THE five sitting councillors in the Ennis Municipal District seeking re-election, Tom is the only one to have not been elected.

Born in Kildysart, the Clarecastle based father of one received the backing of Fianna Fáil members in November 2022 to fill the seat vacated by Mark Nestor’s (FF) resignation from the County Council. An intensive canvass was credited for his success over Darragh McAllister, Bernard Hanrahan and Amanda Major on that occasion.

In advance of polling day on June 7th, Tom has mounted a strong canvass once again and was the first of the candidates to need a replacement pair of shoes. His questioning of aspects of the Ennis 2040 strategy and ‘conflicts of interest’ with the General Municipal Allocation (GMA) has ruffled feathers among his colleagues and he was recently branded a misogynist by Cllr Mary Howard (FG).

While Tom may not be currying favour with his colleagues, he is spoken positively by those in business circles around the town for the manner in which he has attempted to hold persons to account, he is one of the leading figures involved with Save Ennis Town. He does have experience of contesting elections, he ran in 2009 in Limerick City South but returned only 174 first preferences. A postmaster since 2000, O’Callaghan prior to his co-option, had addressed the Council Chamber on numerous occasions, by next month he’ll be anxious to ensure he doesn’t need an invite for his next opportunity to speak in the Chamber.

Seamus Ryan

Party: Labour

Occupation: Trade Union organiser

Top priority: Bringing more affordable housing into usenew, vacant or derelict

SIGNS of improvement have been evident in each election campaign of Seamus’ but he’ll need a big lift to be in with a shout of claiming a seat, such an outcome would definitely be a case of third time lucky.

Ryan was one of the last babies born at Ennis Hospital, the forty year old comes from a farming family in Moy but has lived in the county town since 2008. He is a former librarian in Ennis where he worked for twelve years until leaving the county in 2019 but he has since returned.

He stepped down as Chairperson of Labour’s branch in Clare during the pandemic but he currently chairs the Clare Trades’ Council plus the Congress Information and Opportunity Centre. In his five years as a trade union organiser with Forsa, he has represented special needs assistants, school secretaries and caretakers.

Labour has not had an elected representative on the County Council since Pascal Fitzgerald (LAB) in South Clare lost his seat in 2014. During The Electoral Chair’s election debate for the Ennis MD, he was branded as “disloyal” to Co Clare by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) for his opposition to several of the projects identified in the Ennis 2040 Strategy. Vacancy and dereliction of housing has been labelled as the big issue in the Ennis MD by Seamus, only he and Denis Vaughan (LAB) are flying under the Labour banner this time round to try end the dereliction of Labour voices on the Council.

Party: Social Democrats

Occupation: Development officer with Women’s Collective Ireland

Top priority: To make decisions in consultation with the people of Ennis

VIEWED as one of the dark horses in the Ennis MD, Hilary is the third candidate attached to Save Ennis Town.

She is the founder of the Mná ag Gáire Women’s Hub

ENNIS MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

in Ennis, the idea for this women’s group spawned after a group of like-minded women came together first to make PPE for nursing homes across Clare in 2020 but it has kept going as a safe space, to meet, craft and start discussions with over 200 females attending weekly.

Hilary made Ennis her home forty years ago, she has raised a family and worked in Ennis over those four decades and now resides on the Tulla Rd.

Tonge is also the co-founder of the MidWest Hospital Campaign, one of the most active group of health activists in the region which have constantly highlighted appalling conditions and overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick. She has also been involved with Clare County Council’s Local Community

Development Committees and the Clare PPN. Chris Kirwan (SD) ran for the Social Democrats in 2019 polling 172 first preference votes, the party headed up by Holly Cairns TD (SD) has yet to elect a county councillor in Clare but their campaign locally this year has intensified despite running less candidates than five years ago.

The visit of Deputy Cairns to the Women’s Hub in Ennis and canvassing with Fiona Levie (SD) is just a small example of how headquarters are making a bigger push this time round.

Party: Fianna Fáil

Cllr Tom O’Callaghan

Hillary Tonge

ENNIS MUNICIPAL DISTRICT: The key issue

Ennis MD candidates’ stance on Ennis 2040 projects

ONE of the big election issues dominating the conversation in the Ennis Municipal District is the Ennis 2040 Strategy, writes Páraic McMahon

Launched in October 2021 by then Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Leo Varadkar (FG) to much fanfare and little resistance, the economic and spatial strategy has turned out to be one

of the most divisive matters within the town of Ennis.

Such an atmosphere has been reflected at meetings of the Ennis MD which have been described by elected representatives as “toxic” and “nasty”.

From the get-go there have been nine transformational projects identified under Ennis 2040. In their most latest update, Ennis

2040 Chief Operating Officer, Kevin Corrigan indicated that the strategy would result in a €28m additional spend, a sustained annual spend of €3.5m, 220 plus long-term jobs and 526 plus short-term jobs during construction of various projects.

All 13 candidates in the Ennis MD have been asked by The Clare Echo for their stance on each of the projects*.

ABBEY STREET CAR PARK PROJECT

What is it? The proposed multi-storey Abbey Street development will comprise retail space at ground and first level, and office accommodation at third floor

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – against Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – against Bridget Ginnity (GP) – against Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – against Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for Ruairí Keenan (IND) – against Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - against Amanda Major (IND) – against Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – against Seamus Ryan (LAB) – against Hilary Tonge (SD) – against u Candidate stance t

HARVEY’S QUAY

What is it? Harvey’s Quay Car Park to be redeveloped into a mixed use development site “that adds to the attractive nature of Ennis” along with a river walk promenade running along the Fergus riverbank

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – against Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – against Bridget Ginnity (GP) – for Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – against Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for

Ruairí Keenan (IND) – against Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - against Amanda Major (IND) – against Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – against Seamus Ryan (LAB) – against Hilary Tonge (SD) – undecided

ENNIS DATA CENTRE

uWhat is it? €1.2 billion data centre campus to comprise six data halls covering 145 acres or 1.3 million sq ft of land adjacent to the Tulla Road near junction 13 of the M18 motorway.

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – undecided

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – against Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – against Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for

Ruairí Keenan (IND) – undecided

Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - against

Amanda Major (IND) – against Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – against Seamus Ryan (LAB) – against Hilary Tonge (SD) – against

uFRIAR’S WALK

What is it? The Friar’s Walk Transformational Project to include residential blocks to provide a mix of unit types at heights of 2-4 storeys

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – for Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – for Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for

OTHER 2040 PROJECTS

Former Ennis NS school:

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – for Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – for Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for Ruairí Keenan (IND) – for Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - for Amanda Major (IND) – against Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – for

Ruairí Keenan (IND) – for Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - undecided

Amanda Major (IND) – for Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – for

Roche opportunity site:

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – for Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – for Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for Ruairí Keenan (IND) – for Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - undecided

Amanda Major (IND) – for Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) –for

Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – for

Clare Technology Park opportunity site:

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – undecided

Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – for Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for Ruairí Keenan (IND) – for Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - undecided

Amanda Major (IND) – for Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for

Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – undecided

ENNIS MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

WETLANDS PROJECT

uWhat is it? Development of pedestrian and cycling connectivity in lands between railway and the M18, encorporating the River Fergus and its floodplains

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) – for Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – undecided

Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for

Ruairí Keenan (IND) – undecided

Jacek Kwaśny (IND) – against

Amanda Major (IND) – for Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for

Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – for

CORNMARKET PRECCINT

What is it? “Opportunity for a variety of uses to enhance the overall attractiveness of the area” on the edge of Ennis town centre

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – for

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for Bridget Ginnity (GP) –undecided

Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) –undecided

Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for

Ruairí Keenan (IND) – for Jacek Kwaśny (IND) – against Amanda Major (IND) – for Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for Seamus Ryan (LAB) – for Hilary Tonge (SD) – undecided

POST OFFICE FIELD PROJECT

What is it? Redevelopment of the existing Post Office Field into a new town centre riverside park connected by an elevated boardwalk/promenade and pedestrian bridges

u Candidate stance t

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) – against Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) – for Cllr Pat Daly (FF) – for

Bridget Ginnity (GP) – against Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) – against Cllr Mary Howard (FG) – for Ruairí Keenan (IND) – against Jacek Kwaśny (IND) - against

Amanda Major (IND) – against Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) – for Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) – for

Ryan (LAB) – against

Tonge (SD) – against

Continue your preference for Antoinette Baker Bashua, Cllr Pat Daly and Cllr Tom O’Callaghan VOTE

Seamus

Hilary

ENNISTYMON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Green Party

Occupation: County councillor

Top priority: Continue to increase state funding and resources for North Clare services

CHASING re-elec-

tion to the County Council, Joe was elected on the first attempt in 2019 when he received 1,328 first preference votes.

Having been General Manager of Lahinch Seaworld prior to entering the political sphere, Garrihy has dived straight in at the deep end of political life and was elected Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District twelve months on from joining the local authority. Sustainability has been his buzzword during the current term as he advocated for more resources to assist the long-term viability of villages in North Clare.

Garrihy has been active on the frontline in his native Lisdoonvarna as it has welcomed over 800 Ukrainians since their country was invaded by Russia. He has criticised the delays associated with construction the visitor centre at Doolin Pier but has said record investment has been secured for North Clare during the current Council term during rural development and sports capital opportunities.

Garrihy has previous experience of representing his county, having been a goalkeeper for Clare’s footballers with minor, U21 and senior sides, he also lined out between the posts for the county soccer team while his eldest son Michael has continued this trend and is currently first choice goalkeeper with Tennessee Westlayan University. Though the recent trip to Graceland may not secure extra postal votes, he’s hopeful the North Clare voters won’t have ‘suspicious minds’ and that he’ll be on their minds when it comes to casting their number one vote.

Occupation: County councillor Top priority: Wastewater infrastructure - clean water will allow us to build more houses

PUTTING the A back in Lahinch has been a focus of Liam since his co-option to Clare County Council in October 2022.

Indeed he made history on that occasion when he became the first politician in the 125 year history of the County Council to be co-opted virtually, this was following the resignation of Susan Crawford (GP) who joined the local authority after Roisin Garvey (GP) was one of the nominees of then Taoiseach, Micheál Martin (FF) to become a Senator in June 2020.

At this sitting, he committed to push a Green agenda and he has been vocal in highlighting the quality of bathing waters in Clare and wastewater treatment plants across North Clare. A former retained firefighter and lifeguard, the Lahinch man is an earth and ocean science graduate and had been working on the frontline helping to provide COVID-19 vaccines in Ennis during the pandemic. Grant was one of the founders of Luvguru, an app which allows friends of a single person to match them up with others using Facebook, the start-up company ceased operations in 2018.

His introduction to the current Council term was done virtually and for one of his final meetings, he managed to attend two meetings online at the one time, the West Clare MD’s May sitting and that of the Physical Development SPC, though he has admitted the Green wave is no longer rippling across North Clare, he’s anxious not to be logging off from the Council just yet.

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Farmer / county councillor

Top priority: Enhance the lives of people and communities in County Clare

DESPITE only canvassing for a single month prior to the 2019 local election, Joe still managed to secure 1,196 first preference votes on his way to securing one of the four seats in the Ennistymon local electoral area at the first time of asking.

He did receive less preferences on that occasion than Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) and Bill Slattery (FG) but overtook them following the transfers from Martin O’Loghlen (FF). Prior to politics, Joe was a principal of Lough Gutra NS in Gort and began his teaching career in Strokestown, Co Roscommon, a gentle calm approach has been taken by the Corofin man during his five years on the Council.

In April 2018, he was elected President of the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation, securing equal pay for newly qualified teachers has been cited as his top achievement during the year-long Presidency.

He was a member of the Small Schools Task Force, set up in 2012 by the union to advise the executive on opposing proposals by the Department of Education and Skills to close small schools.

For over a decade, Joe has been the Chairperson of the North Clare Show, he is a lifelong member of the IFA. While he was one of the last additions for the 2019 election, Joe and his running mate Cllr Shane Talty (FF) were the first two confirmed candidates for this election, having been selected in May 2023. Part of the backroom team with the Corofin team crowned intermediate champions last year, Killeen will be bidding for his own form of county glory in the guise of retaining his seat.

Party: Irish People

Occupation: Retired Top priority: Sorting out the sewer system

RETIRED stonemason, Michael will have his work cut out to try craft some votes. Based in Gort, the London born father of two has been involved with protests outside libraries in Cork, Limerick and Killaloe against the stocking of LGBT+ reading materials for children. He was among those to camp on Holy Island last August where the group of personnel he was with raised a banner on the protected structure, Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) said they “desecrated the structure”.

Loughrey is critical of the amount of refugees taken in across Ireland while emigration of young people to Australia and Canada remains high. Among his election pledges are to build a prison for politicians as he claimed TDs are “a bunch of criminals”.

He has labelled COVID-19 “a plandemic” and alleged it was a scheme between the Government and mainstream media which “suddenly disappeared”. An Garda Síochána are “acting like tyrants against their own people”. All political parties except the one he is standing for, The Irish People, which was officially registered in November, are guilty of doctrination, he asserted.

Loughrey will need to be more familiar with his electoral area than his party who were guilty of spelling Ennistymon incorrectly on their official website.

Top priority: Affordable housing - secure, quality homes in our community

ORIGINALLY selected as a candidate for the Farmers Alliance, Pam is now flying under an Independent banner as technical hitches with the party led to registration issues with The Electoral Commission.

She had pulled out of the race but referenced “enormous support and encouragement” locally for prompting her re-entry as an Independent. Following the murder of her younger sister Emer in 2005, Pam has spent close to two decades campaigning for justice for her sibling and has previously sought the intervention of Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris.

Having lived in the United Kingdom for thirty four years, Pam returned home to Clare in 2020. She admitted that it was the pandemic which prompted her to come back and she has been taken aback with the level of unhappiness and uncertainty witnessed since her return.

During her time in England, she worked as a trauma and orthopaedic nurse for 14 years and as a project manager with Nestle for close to a decade.

She is now doing milk recording and farm relief work, primarily in West Clare. Water pollution is among the issues flagged by Pam as a big issue within North Clare, impacting on the pollution of beaches but also affecting the delivery of housing. Ireland’s planning system is ”far too draconian” in her view. She is vying to become only the second female councillor elected in North Clare.

Cllr Liam Grant

Cllr Joe Killeen

Michael Loughrey

Party: Independent Occupation: Farm relief worker

Pam O’Loughlin

Party: Fine Gael

Cllr Joe Garrihy

Party: Fine Gael

Occupation: Farmer

Top priority: Promoting sustainable tourism through investment in amenities and infrastructure.

COROFIN based Conor was born in England to a Quilty father and a mother from Listowel, he has lived in Co Clare since 1995, he always had an aspiration to return to Ireland.

Aged 62, he is of the belief that a United Ireland can happen in his lifetime. Housing, health services and disability access are among the main items on his agenda while he is pushing for improved public transport in rural parts of the county.

Formerly a technical liaisons officer with CRC in Dublin and Limerick, Conor was involved with setting up software for children with special needs. From the age of twenty one, he has been confined to a wheelchair having had cancer in his spine. While living in England, he formed the Disabled Action Group which he described as a “militant group” in how they demonstrated and protested.

O’Sullivan has been a member of Sinn Féin since the age of sixteen, he is a member of the party’s branch in Ennis rather than their cumann in North Clare. He has canvassed for Sinn Féin’s last three General Election candidates, Violet-Anne Wynne (2020), Noeleen Moran (2016) and Anna Prior (2007).

He describes himself as a dedicated community activist and said he was the only person to express an interest in running for Sinn Féin in the Ennistymon LEA. He is hopeful that the party will increase its representation on the County Council following the local elections.

BACK with a vengeance, Bill is determined to win back his seat on Clare County Council having been the only one of the twenty three councillors who contested the 2019 election to lose their seat.

The Lahinch man had been on the local authority from 2011 to 2019, he was co-opted following Martin Conway’s (FG) election to the Seanad.

He defended his seat in 2014 amassing 1,769 first preference votes before losing out in 2019. Relations between him and Senator Conway have not been pleasant since that defeat with Bill critical of the Ennistymon man’s involvement in adding Cllr Garrihy (FG) to the party ticket and for canvassing strongly for him five years ago.

Back in 1999, Slattery and Conway did battle in a selection convention which Slattery won but then party leader John Bruton (FG) added the future Senator to the ticket, neither got elected on that occasion but they helped elect Joe Arkins (FG). Despite being away from local politics, Bill has not been absent from the Council Chamber and has been a vocal member of the Clare Joint Policing Committee since 2019 serving as a community representative given his involvement with the Lahinch Development Association.

He has called for a plan-led approach from the Council to assist the local tourism sector and for support for start-up businesses to create and retain employment in North Clare. Urgency must be shown around Blake’s Corner according to Bill and he’ll be equally as anxious to avoid a traffic backlog in trying to navigate his way back as a councillor.

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Postmaster

Top priority: Deliver a sports campus with the new Ennistymon school campus

BORN and living in Lahinch, Shane has been running the post offices in Lahinch and Ennistymon for the past 14 years.

He was one of the big winners in the 2019 election, amassing 1,977 first preference votes to get elected on the first count, the achievement was made the more impressive as only Cathal Crowe TD (FF), Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) and Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) amassed bigger votes.

His late father, Francie was a party stalwart having been secretary of the Comhairle Ceanntar in North Clare and the Lahinch Cumann. On top of running the post offices, Shane is also a small suckler farmer in the locality.

In June 2022, he was elected Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District and did not hold back in his opening address, hitting out at Uisce Éireann and the lack of adequate wastewater treatment in Lahinch and Ennistymon which is hindering the development of new houses.

Currently chairperson of Ennistymon football club, Talty is adopting a split season approach with a difference for his role as selector to the club’s intermediate football side, rather than the traditional inter-county and back to the club format for him it will be election and back to the intermediates.

Shane has worked “quietly and calmly” in his own words over the past five years while assisting communities and clubs to get funding and local families to apply for planning permission. All the while, he has displayed a smart sense of humour along the way and with Cllr Kelly exiting the Chamber, he may be looked upon to take on the mantle as the party’s leading representative for sound bites.

ENNISTYMON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Labour

Occupation: Impresario

Top priority: Affordable housing

‘GIVE North Clare its fair share’ is the election slogan of Denis who is one of the underdogs to win one of the four seats in the Ennistymon LEA.

A prominent activist in North Clare, Denis returned to Ennistymon a decade ago having been based in England where he still commutes to regularly.

Born in Sydney, he relocated with his family to Ennistymon at the age of two.

In his view, health, housing, sewerage, rivers, farming and bad roads in North Clare need to be addressed. Vaughan has called for greater leadership in the area.

In January 2022, he edged out Ennis candidate Seamus Ryan (LAB) to be elected Chair of the Labour branch in Clare, a role he has stepped down from to concentrate on his bid for office.

He is the founding chairperson of Save Ennistymon’s Heritage and Save our Shannon which was a campaign aimed to fight for Shannon Airport.

The music promoter is a frequent flyer at Shannon and has maintained his work with Save our Shannon during the pandemic was crucial to the survival of the International Airport which is on course to record two million passengers this year for the first time since 2009.

He has been a part of the Labour Party’s international committee but it’s only local that matters come June 7th for Vaughan in trying to become the first impresario on the Council.

Party: Sinn Féin

Occupation: Retired

Top priority: Accessible housing for all

Conor O’Sullivan

Bill Slattery

Cllr Shane Talty

Denis Vaughan

ENNISTYMON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT: The key issue

Big battle of Bill versus Liam for final seat?

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NORTH CLARE is shaping up to be the big battle of Bill Slattery (FG) versus Cllr Liam Grant (GP) for the final seat in the Ennistymon local electoral area.

Four first-time councillors were elected in the Ennistymon LEA in 2019 as Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) and Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) all prevailed while Bill Slattery was the only sitting councillor in the county to lose his seat.

Over the past five years, Inagh native Garvey was one of the Taoiseach’s nominees to the Seanad alongside Senator Timmy Dooley (FF). Her vacant seat was filled by Susan Crawford (GP) before the Miltown Malbay woman resigned from the local authority and this led to the addition of Cllr Grant in October 2022.

All four councillors in North Clare are seeking re-election to the Council, they are joined on the ballot by Slattery, Michael Loughrey

gest bout is set to be for the final seat in the Ennistymon LEA. Slattery was very hurt of losing out in 2019 while Cllr Grant has conceded that the Green Wave which helped to elect Garvey in 2019 is no longer as strong in North Clare.

what to expect in the Ennistymon LEA. “Bill appears to be getting the traditional Fine Gael vote while Joe has helped thousands of Ukrainians in North Clare”.

to Shane, for him to be in trouble he needs to go from 1,900 votes to 1,200 votes and that is unlikely to happen”.

(IP), Pam O’Loughlin (IND), Conor O’Sullivan (SF) and Denis Vaughan (LAB).

Political pundits have predicted the final seat will come down to a battle between the Lahinch duo of Slattery and Grant, the duo previously clashed over the erection of posters at the beginning of the election campaign but their big-

A Fianna Fáil source told The Clare Echo that they view Talty as “safe” given his wide family network across Ennistymon, Lahinch and Miltown Malbay which helped him to a remarkable return of 1,977 first preference votes in his debut election five years ago. Conor O’Sullivan’s addition to the ballot “is an immediate challenge for Joe Killeen” given his base in Corofin, according to Killeen’s party colleague.

“It is a massive grudge match between Bill Slattery and Joe Garrihy,” the Fianna Fáil member said of

Geography is among the factors working to the advantage of Cllr Garrihy, according to a Fine Gael source. “Joe Garrihy will win his seat and so too will Joe Killeen,” the Fine Gaeler predicted. “The next two seats then are between the four of Bill Slattery, Shane Talty, Liam Grant and Conor O’Sullivan”.

On the challenges facing Bill Slattery, the Fine Gael member said, “Bill is running a very strong campaign to regain his seat which he lost but his biggest challenge is having two sitting councillors in his own village, a lot of young people are going to vote for Liam Grant because he is very active on social media while Shane Talty has a huge family base which makes him more likely to pull votes than anyone in Inagh and Miltown Malbay, it really is extraordinary there is no candidate in Miltown which is a big help

Fine Gael expect Slattery will get a higher first preference than the 1,303 he received last time round but they expect a fierce battle between him, Cllr Grant and O’Sullivan. “Sinn Féin cannot be on 23 percent in the polls nationally and not come within winning a seat in North Clare. Noeleen Moran was not a million miles away in 2014, if the trend for or against Sinn Féin impacts the vote then Conor will have to be polling well. Liam Grant has that big social media presence, young people like him and he is escaping the wrath that most Greens are getting. The Sinn Féin vote is going to decide if Bill or Liam get in”.

Loughrey’s unknown presence is going to be a barrier to him making any dent while both Vaughan and O’Loughlin are viewed as having too much to do to compete with the sitting quartet.

n Cllr Liam Grant and (inset) Bill Slattery

ENNISTYMON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Fine Gael battle in North Clare one of the 'most interesting aspects' for local election

by Páraic McMahon

FINE GAEL’s ‘grudge match’ in North Clare has been underlined as one of the “most interesting aspects” of the local elections.

Nine candidates are vying to win the four seats in the Ennistymon local electoral area that the public will decide on when it comes to casting their votes on June 7th.

Sitting quartet, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Liam Grant (GP), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) and Cllr Shane Talty (FF) are facing competition from Michael Loughrey (IP), Pam O’Loughlin (IND), Conor O’Sullivan (SF), Bill Slattery (FG) and Denis Vaughan (LAB).

Ger Kennedy (FG) who contested the 2014 local elections in the West Clare

Municipal District flagged the ballot paper is comprised of two Ennistymon candidates and three in Lahinch.

“There is a lot of people in this general area looking for the votes, Pam O’Loughlin has come in from Ennistymon, Denis Vaughan is here as well, there’s an awful lot of people pulling out of the same cohort of voters so it will be very interesting to see.

“Bill has always done well in this area, he has a lot of supporters, he would have been very disappointed to miss out the last time having been a councillor for a few terms but that is the way it panned out with Joe Garrihy getting in. I don’t know how it is going to go this time round, that fourth seat is between any one of three people”.

Kennedy added, “Joe has been at the centre of many of the community issues over

the past five years that have been happening, he’s had a very strong social media presence too, Bill has been a little bit out of the limelight

so he needed to get out of the blocks early to let people know he is still very much involved and anxious to get a seat again but Joe has made a very good impression”.

Fianna Fáil Director of

He doesn’t think it will split the Fine Gael vote in North Clare. “They will be a bit more mature and won’t be as volatile as they were the last time, nobody wins in that situation. You get much more benefit from pulling in the one direction rather than keeping party politics going after the election, I think they learned from the last election”.

Speaking on The Electoral Chair, Reidy maintained that Cllr Liam Grant (GP) is under pressure to retain his place on the local authority.

“This is his first time coming onto the campaign trail, he is a nice fella, he has done a good bit of work and he works well with the lads, he has the biggest challenge I think.

“We talked about some of the stuff and the impact of the Green agenda, people are very big to jump on the bandwagon. Liam is up against it, if you look at all the candidates the last time you generally get all your vote from your locality, Joe Killeen got it from Corofin and Ruan, Shane Talty got it from Ennistymon, Lahinch and Miltown Malbay, it is the same all the way through, Bill Slattery is going in Lahinch and Liam is going to have a hell of a challenge, it will probably be a number of those candidates fighting for

of the most interesting as pects from the election”.

“Bill might have got caught and have had other personal issues with health the last time but his style at the door, he comes across and engages with people, he does have contacts all the time and the influence he has which are the two key things for anyone canvassing...he does that but so does Joe so it will be very interesting”.

Corofin-based Kennedy pointed out, “Roisin (Garvey) went the last time but she was that bit away in Inagh, she would have resonated more with people in the Corofin area than someone based in Lahinch, we did have a bit of a Green base when Ann Marie Flanagan got a good vote, there was a residual Green vote which would have transferred to Roisin but there is a bit of a breakdown at the moment”.

Transfers from Noeleen Moran (SF) were central to the election of Garvey according to Reidy. “The influence the Garvey name had in this area was very important but on the last count for the last election, the difference in votes between Bill Slattery and Roisin was only a handful of votes.

“It is worth remembering but it is very hard to explain, Roisin got elected by getting 205 votes transfers from Noeleen Moran’s 575, that is the two opposite ends of

the political spectrum, that was why Roisin got elected and Bill didn’t, there was only a few votes in it but the 205 votes from the transfers elected Roisin”.

An anti-establishment vote is likely to assist either O’Loughlin or O’Sullivan. “Pam’s big disadvantage is that she is very new to the scene, she had been living abroad and is only home in the last couple of years. I’ve read her material in relation to the election, she had been running for the Farmers Alliance but very little was to do with farmers, I was wondering if she was under the right umbrella.

“She might get an anti-establishment vote because there’s a lot of people out there who don’t like any of the main parties, a lot of them talk about voting but don’t bother voting, if they decide they could decide for Pam as a protest type candidate,” Kennedy said.

There is a big challenge for Vaughan to challenge the leading pack, Reidy said. “He was away for years and has been back for years. He has been effective, he had a challenge to get the Labour party’s branch up and running in North Clare but he has made a success of it. Like Sinn Féin, I think Labour’s support in North Clare isn’t as prominent as it was 20 years ago. I’d say he has a challenge, you need to get 1,000 votes, I’m not sure where he is going to get it”.

In Corofin, the impact of Cllr Killeen has been evident according to Kennedy. “Joe touches into all the local organisations and is always willing to help, it is great to have someone local who is willing to support whatever the community is doing.

“We’ve been very happy to have Joe and I’d be amazed if he doesn’t sail in the next time, he covers all the geographic area which is vast when you take in Tubber, Boston, Ruan, Corofin and Kilnaboy, he has very strong family connections, he has a great network with the farming community, he was President of the INTO and is a great man to have in the area”.

Reidy pointed out, “He got 600 of his 1200 votes in the parish of Corofin and Ruan which says a huge lot about him, he was always very approachable, he brings some of the farming people with him”.

n Ger Kennedy contested the 2014 election in West Clare Burren Eye Photography

n 2019 success stories (clockwise from above) including Joe Cooney, Shane Talty, Cathal Crowe, John Crowe and PJ Kelly

KILLALOE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Fine Gael

Occupation: Farmer / county councillor Top priority: The protection of rural communities

NOT alone is Pat a fourth-generation farmer at Dromaan House but he is also a fourth generation politician in East Clare.

His great grand-uncle, Frank Burke served on the County Council until 1920, his grandfather Paddy Burke was elected to the Council in 1925, he served as a TD and councillor under the dual mandate until his sudden death in 1945 while his uncle Charlie Burke unsuccessfully stood for the 1948 General Election.

It would take another 61 years for a Burke to raise their hand in a political sense and Pat duly prevailed as the third candidate elected in Killaloe in 2009.

He’s now bidding to serve for twenty years like his grandfather and grand-uncle.

The father of three from Whitegate is passionate about farming, local politics and helping communities, he is not shy when it comes to criticising Green Ministers.

Over the current term, he has kept Inis Cealtra on the agenda and the opening of the Old Rectory building as a visitor centre will certainly be a highlight in his political career.

In April 2022, he resigned from his role as one of the four Clare representatives on the HSE Regional Health Forum.

Having twice been the Leas Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Pat is likely to get the nod and receive the mayoral chains at some stage over the next five years if returned.

Occupation:

Top priority: No response

ANNOUNCED as Sinn Féin’s candidate in March, Martina had developed a strong media profile in the county with her work for the Clare Pyrite Action Group.

She founded the group in 2020 and is its current chairperson. She led the lobbying efforts that resulted in the inclusion of Clare and Limerick in a €2.7bn defective concrete blocks redress scheme.

The Cork native lives in Crusheen and revealed in March that she has been a member of Sinn Féin for the past four years.

In February 2022, she told The Clare Echo that there was a possibility of the Clare Pyrite Action Group running candidates in the next General Election.

As an artist, Cleary has presented her work in over 11 countries partaking in a range of festivals, solo and group exhibitions. Her work has been supported by the Arts Councils of Ireland and Finland, The Finnish Cultural Foundation, the Clare County Arts Office and a number of organisations in both Ireland and abroad.

She currently lectures in the Department of Fine Art & Education at LSAD, TUS and is Principal Investigator of the ADEPT Research Group. For thirteen years, she lived in Finland.

It was on an interview with Clare FM about the defective concrete blocks scheme that she announced her selection as Sinn Féin’s candidate before nomination forms were issued to party members. Martina will be looking to make more noise on the airwaves in a positive fashion if elected.

Occupation: Full-time councillor

Top priority: To improve infrastructure in rural villages encouraging growth

NICKNAMED as of late, “the dyson of East Clare” for his ability to hoover up votes, Joe is aspiring to top the poll for the fourth election on the trot.

Not alone does Cooney have an ability to come in first spot but he cleans up votes across the Killaloe MD and generally tends to poll over 2,000 first preferences, he secured the highest vote in the county of all Clare councillors for three of his four runs for public office.

The O’Callaghans Mills man was first elected in 2004 and has many loyal supporters, he revealed in an interview with Scariff Bay Community Radio that it was a man well-known on the airwaves of Co Clare, ex Clare FM commentator Matthew McMahon that was the person to approach him to consider running for the Council two decades ago.

As time has passed, he has garnered a reputation as one of the hardest-working elected members in the county. Cooney has had a lifelong invovelment with the GAA.

Last June, he became the first person since the late Sean Keating (FF) to have been both Mayor of Clare and Chairperson of Clare GAA, he will hold the mayoral chains until the end of June. He has been vocal in the fight for Broadford to get a wastewater treatment plant.

Joe has worked in the construction sector for over forty years and has built up countless relations in this time. The dyson is on course to continue cleaning up in East Clare.

Occupation: Self-employed educator

Top priority: A prosperous, sustainable Clare where people and place thrive together

EAGER to build on the 708 first preferences for the Greens in the Killaloe MD is Audrey. However unlike 2019, Audrey has not had as strong of a canvass as Barry O’Donovan which may curtail her ability to make inroads.

Born in the United Kingdom to Mountshannon parents, she grew up in Tipperary but crossed the border back to Clare twenty six years ago and she hasn’t looked back.

Her mother Theresa Flynn is a founder of the Burren Chernobyl Project. Audrey spent two years working as a political assistant to Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) in Leinster House.

She joined the Greens in 1993 and pointed to the birth of her first child in 1991 as a big factor in her decision, the move of her youngest and fourth child to college paved the way for Flynn to throw her name in the ring to try make a difference on the local political scene.

Ireland South candidate, Grace O’Sullivan (GP) first broached the idea of Audrey contesting a local election last May but it wasn’t a full twelve months later that it became a reality. She is a founder member of The ALFA Project, (Active Learning For Adolescents), now Alfa Steiner Secondary School. She has been the National Coordinator for the Irish Steiner Kindergarten Association and has worked with Camphill Community Mountshannon. Her battle now is to usurp one of the five sitting alpha-males to try get elected to the Killaloe MD.

EXPERIENCED as a councillor for the last 25 years, Pat if elected will be the longest-serving Fianna Fáil councillor in Clare as both Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) and Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) exit the political arena.

The Maghera man is currently Chairman of Killanena GAA Club and within the inner workings of the County Council, he is Chairperson of the Rural Develompent Strategic Policy Committee. Hayes got involved in politics to try support his community, a rural area on the periphery of the county.

He topped the poll in his second local election in 2004 but has been in second spot to Cllr Cooney for the past three elections. Pat was nominated to contest the Seanad Election in 2016 but withdrew from the campaign.

In recent months, he has called for elected representatives to be vocal in criticising the actions in Gaza.

His children have been passed on his love for politics with his son Liam recently acting as one of five Irish representatives at the Youth4EU Youth Exchange in Berlin. His brother Martin is one of the greatest fiddle players of his generation.

Although Martina Cleary (SF) is residing in Crusheen, Hayes is expected to secure the bulk of the votes there and has been active in requesting a rail stop be reintroduced in the village, the train won’t be stopping so far as Hayes’ political career is concerned.

Party: Sinn Féin

Lecturer / artist

Martina Cleary

Party: Fine Gael

Cllr Joe Cooney

Party: Green Party

Audrey Flynn

Party: Fianna Fáil Occupation: Supervisor / county councillor Top priority: To improve road safety, infrastructure and trasport across East Clare Cllr Pat Hayes

Cllr Pat Burke

Occupation:

Top priority: Accessible, phased payments for refurbished homes & businesses

YEARS of voluntary service within Mountshannon have already been given by Fiona who now wishes to represent her area in a political sense.

The sole parent of four young adults was selected as a candidate last November and the area of Mountshannon is swarming up with runners in the political field. She grew up working with the family business near Whitegate before moving further afield to work in Dublin, Italy and Spain. She returned home in 2010 to raise her family in the community that helped to raise her.

Over the last 14 years, Fiona has been involved with Mountshannon Community Council, Whitegate Camogie Club, Scariff Bay Community Radio and she has led the local scout group for over ten years.

Levie holds masters degrees in project management and professional practice. She lectures and serves as a consultant in the areas of leadership, change, project management and enterprise development. She has said it is “high-time” a female councillor was elected to the Killaloe MD.

It will be a shock if she doesn’t perform much better than the 1.96 percent of the vote secured by Beckha Doyle (SD) in 2019. Highlights in Fiona’s professional career include driving a 400% turnover increase within 12 months for a multi-national organisation in Italy, and managing SMEs in Spain.

Were she to manage a 400 percent increase in the vote for the Social Democrats in East Clare, she would class it as her greatest political achievement.

Occupation:

Top priority:

Occupation: Full-tim councillor

Top priority: Delivering new social and affordable housing in our communities

FACING off with the Fianna Fáil trio of Hayes, O’Brien and O’Callaghan will be nothing new for Matt.

On June 9 of last year, he lost out to the trio in a Fianna Fáil selection convention, by June 9 2024 he will know if he had better luck when it comes to running against them in a local election.

The Broadford native resigned from Fianna Fáil in March after he was unsuccessful in subsequent bids to be added to the party’s ticket by headquarters. His defection led to a new alliance with Independent Ireland and he is the party’s first candidate in East Clare.

Moroney called for the Chairman of the Fianna Fáil Comhairle Dáil Ceantair in Clare, Mike Enright (FF) to step down over his comments that the party’s only TD in Clare, Cathal Crowe (FF), should go “to Mothercare and got a soother”.

He said Fianna Fáil has “gone stale” in the county and criticised the absence of AGMs or meeting with the grassroots. 2019 candidate, Joe Floyd (IND) had said he was giving his backing to Matt before he entered the race himself but then withdrew in less than 48 hours.

The suckler farmer is now living in Killaloe and operates an East Clare Community Alert page on Facebook to try clamp down on crime on social media. Although he’s alert when it comes to social media, Moroney has been missing in action when it comes to election debates, a trend that his fellow candidates have been quick to point out.

WITH the Killaloe Bridge and Bypass nearing completion, Tony is determined he’ll still be a sitting councillor when the day to cut the ribbon arrives next year.

O’Brien was first elected to the local authority in 2004, he was one of four Fianna Fáil councillors to lose out in 2009 but he successfully bounced back to win back his seat in 2014 and retain it in 2019 despite losing over seventy first preferences.

Within his locality, Tony has served as Chairman and Secretary of Smith O’Briens GAA club while he is actively involved with the Killaloe Tidy Towns.

He has often called Lough Derg the jewel in the crown and maintains Killaloe is the gateway to East Clare. In June 2022, he was elected as Mayor of Clare in what was the highlight of his political career, in his opening address he told councillors they should all aspire to be like the county’s hurlers and footballers and put their best foot forward when putting on the county jersey.

The County Development Plan was adopted during his year as first citizen. Married to Majella with two children and four grand-children, Tony is expected to retain his support in Killaloe and O’Briensbridge but will receive some competition from Moroney in the locality.

A founding member of Killaloe Search and Rescue, Tony will be bidding to heading into the count centre next weekend without having to go searching for too many transfers.

KILLALOE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Cllr Alan O’Callaghan

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Oil distributor

Top priority: Road infrastructure, resurfacing, drainiage, speeding, gullies, hedges and potholing

SEEKING a third term on the County Council, Alan was first elected in 2014 and saw his vote swell by over 400 in 2019.

He has been the Leas Cathaoirleach of the County Council and is regarded as one of the funny men inside the Chamber.

From Kilmurry, he is married to Aideen and they have two sons. ‘Don’t shiver we deliver’, is the slogan of his oil distributor business which sees him travel the hi-roads and byways of Co Clare.

Last December before a sitting of the Killaloe District Court, his bid to object to the transfer of licence for the Pumphouse in Kilmurry was dismissed, he had been a popular publican prior to the change of ownership.

Twice the Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe MD, Cyril Crowe’s (FG) withdrawal from the race at the beginning of the year will help his vote.

Noted for giving a rendition of ‘I Tell Me Ma’, O’Callaghan if returned will have someone new sitting on his left shoulder following the retirement of Cllr PJ Kelly (FF).

He had been one of the vocal councillors when it came to getting the Shannon Heritage deal over the line and Alan has often referenced his family involvement with Crauggownen when trying to highlight the potential of the tourism and heritage sites.

The rally enthusiast will be looking to race back into the Council as election fever goes up a gear across the county.

Party: Social Democrats

Lecturer / Business consultant

Fiona Levie

Party: Independent Ireland

Suckler farmer

TBC

Matt Moroney

Party: Fianna Fáil

Cllr Tony O’Brien

KILLALOE MUNICIPAL DISTRICT: The key issue

'Dyson

of East Clare' says he's not hoovering up too many votes as FG strategy questioned

MAYOR OF Clare, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) is predicted to top the poll in East Clare for the fourth election in a row but he has defended the strategy in place that has seen Fine Gael return only two candidates, writes Páraic McMahon. Christened as “the dyson of East Clare” by communications consultant, Mark Dunphy on The Electoral Chair, Cllr Cooney’s vote-getting ability has resulted in him heading the poll for the last three elections in East Clare with first preference votes of 2,780 (2009), 2,843 (2014) and 2,697 (2019). Dunphy added, “He is a hoover of votes, he always has been and always will be. I don’t want to put a curse on Joe’s campaign”.

Founder of Clare FM, Caimin Jones noted, “Joe Cooney in East Clare polls nearly 3,000 first preference votes in the Killaloe Municipal District, he is not a particularly good media performer, he doesn’t make great speeches about lots of things but he has an extraordinary quality that stands him in great stead, likeability, people like Joe. I’ve seen this when he comes into a room people say ‘how are you Joe, you’re very welcome’.

“He is very popular, he has a personality that people like in his area and also stories get told about him. He is a

builder by trade, he goes into this Council estate and this person complains that there is something wrong with the roof and asks if he will get onto the Council officials because they are worn to the teeth of trying to get through to them so Joe goes out to the van, pulls out the ladder, climbs up the roof and fixes the roof, vote guaranteed for family and friends for the foreseeable future.

“He is a hard worker, very likable and doesn’t fit in easily to the media pattern that we might judge as effective in terms of being successful electorally and he is hugely successful,” the Scariff native added.

Ger O’Halloran (FG) who is the parliamentary assistant to Clare TD, Joe Carey (FG) contested elections for the party in 2014 and 2019. At the selection convention for Killaloe MD candidates last September he criticised the absence of any clear strategy within Fine Gael to maximise the seats returned from Cllr Cooney’s vote. He said, “Given the current constituency chairperson’s statement that Fine Gael is expecting to retain but grow numbers, the absence of any strategy is bemusing”. He quoted Albert Einstein, “The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result”.

Speaking on The Electoral Chair’s election debate in the Killaloe MD, the comments from O’Halloran on the lack of a Fine Gael strategy in East Clare were put to Cllr Cooney.

“I wouldn’t say there is no political strategy there, we go out and meet the people, talk to the people and see what the issues are that the people have, we will try and deliver for the people, that is the way I’ve been working since I got involved in local politics and it is the way I will continue working.

“If people ask you to do this or that you try to do your best for the people which is important and vital. On occasions, people will run in different areas like Ger O’Halloran who went in Clooney, I didn’t canvass the Clooney or Quin areas or the places nearby, the same by Cllr Burke down in Whitegate and Mountshannon, they don’t come into the Mills or Kilkishen area but other than that it is open country and that is the way it is since I started running, I haven’t heard that it is going to be different in 2024.

“My belief is that it is most important to represent the people that elect you, that is what I’ve been doing and I will continue to do”.

A former Chairman of Clare GAA, Joe did not feel he was hoovering up too many votes.

“I’m hoovering up no votes at all, I’m going out meeting the people, talking to the people and I’ll leave it in the people’s hands as to what they decide to do.

“Actually, I don’t think I’ve asked a person to vote number one for me, I just go meet them, talk to them. They know what I do, I don’t know what they do because that is up to them but

the most important thing is to work as a team, represent the people to the best of your ability. It won’t be always easy but you try deliver as much as you can for the people, we all know you can’t deliver everything for the people but you can only go out and do your best and the day your best isn’t good enough it is time to move on and let in a new person to take over.

“I will be meeting the people on this occasion, the same as in the past and doing my best to deliver what I can for the people of the Killaloe Municipal District”.

Back in 2019, 72 of Cooney’s transfers went to O’Halloran and 244 to Cllr Pat Burke (FG) while Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) got 262, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) obtained 164 and Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) received 104.

Cllr Burke was unable to explain why despite nearly securing half of the vote in the Killaloe MD that Fine Gael only elected two councillors compared to Fianna Fáil’s three.

“The strategy was that the candidates were well placed geographically, Cllr Cooney resides in the centre of the Killaloe MD more or less so he has a huge area around where he lives, our strategy was three candidates spread out but for some reason in a heavily populated area in Quin where Ger O’Halloran was residing he didn’t make it, I didn’t go over to Quin canvassing and Cllr Cooney didn’t either so what more could we do”.

Absent candidates 'running away' in Killaloe

ABSENTEEISM from candidates in the Killaloe Municipal District for two election debates have been slammed by outgoing councillors. Two election debates have been hosted so far for candidates in the Killaloe Municipal District. The Clare Echo invited all candidates to appear on an election debate special of the political podcast, The Electoral Chair while Scariff Bay Community Radio broadcasted an election special over the weekend. Clare FM will this week be recording its election debate for the Killaloe MD.

For the two debates already completed, the sitting five of Cllr Pat Burke (FG), Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) and Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) were all in attendance.

Fiona Levie (SD) was present for both debates. Work commitments were cited by Audrey Flynn (GP) and Matt Moroney (II) for their absence on both occasions while Marti-

na Cleary (SF) never acknowledged attempts by The Clare Echo to contact her via phone, text or email but she did show up for the SBCR special.

An audio message was recorded by Flynn for the radio debate but no response was received by Moroney.

Addressing the matter during The Electoral Chair election debate, Cllr Hayes said he was “surprised and more disappointed” that a third of the candidates were absent.

“For the five sitting councillors we’d like to be challenged, to hear new ideas and issues. Fiona is here and it is great to have her here, you don’t get too many opportunities to get into debate mode during an election or during the years but media has changed and the opportunity The Clare Echo are giving us to discuss issues right across our Municipal District will give us a chance to debate that and get into the nitty gritty of what new candi-

dates are putting forward. A lot of people are asking who these people are and what they stand for”.

Similar views were voiced by Cllr Burke. “We don’t get too many opportunities to debate, I’m very familiar with Fiona but I haven’t met two of the new candidates before and I’m very disappointed that they didn’t show up to tell us what they have to offer the Killaloe MD”.

Work commitments can pose barriers in political life, Cllr Cooney acknowledged. “It is disappointing that we haven’t a full team here today and we have to give considerations to working people as well, we are well aware that it is only a part-time job for a lot of people. It is great to see Fiona here as one of the new candidates but it would have been nice to have them all here”.

This view was rejected by Cllr O’Brien. “I disagree with Joe, ye have given us a plat-

form and I think if anybody is serious about representing their community then they should be sititng here, it is their duty to be sitting here, we all work and have busy lives, it is their duty to be sitting here and discussing what they can put forward”.

When there was more absences at the SBCR recording, the matter was flagged by Cllr O’Brien. “It is very interesting that this is our second attempt to have a debate but two candidates and political parties are missing who we don’t know anything about, who we don’t know what their aims are or what they intend to do”.

He added, “They continue to run, it is worth pointing out to the listeners that there are people who were invited here, we all make sacrifices, we got plenty of notice to make our arrangements and make sure if we wanted to make ourselves available to be here but there are candidates who ran away from this”.

Photo by Ruth Griffin

CLARE ECHO ELECTION SPECIAL

POLLING STATIONS

Local Elections & European Elections

Open June 7, 2024

KILRUSH

Ballyea Nationial School

Ballynacally National School

Bansha National School

Burrane National School

Caherea National School

Carrigaholt National School

Cahermurphy National School

Connolly National School

Coolmeen National School

Cooraclare National School

Coore National School

Cranny National School

Cree National School

Corss National School

Doonbeg National School

Kilmurry McMahon National School

Kilbaha National School

Kildysart National School

Kilkee National School

Kilmaley National School

Kilmihil National School

Kilrush Youth Centre

Knockerra National School

Lissycasey National School

Miltown Malbay National School

Moyasta National School

Mullagh National School

Querrin National School

Quilty National School

Shragh National School

St Kierans Community Centre

Labasheeda

St Senan’s National School, Kilrush

ENNISTYMON

Ballyvauaghan National School

Boston National School

Carron National School

Cloonanaha National School

Clooney National School (Ennisymon)

Ennistymon Community Centre

Corofin National School

Doolin National School

Fanore National School

Furglann National School

Inagh National School

Kilfenora National School

Kilnaboy National School

Kilshanny National School

Lahinch National School

Liscannor National School

Lisdoonvarna National School

Miltown Malbay National School

Moy National School

New Quay National School

Ruan National School

Toonagh National School

Tubber National School

KILLALOE

Annaghneal Community Centre

Ballinruan Community Centre

Bodyke National School

Bridgetown National School

Broadford National School

Clonlara National School

Clooney National School

Crusheen National School

Dromindoora National School

Feakle National School

Flagmount National School

Kilkishen National School

Killaloe National School

Kilmurry National School

Mountshannon Childcare Centre

O’Callaghan’s Mills National School

Ogonnelloe National School

Quin National School

Scariff National School

Sixmilebridge Courthouse

Tuamgraney National School

Tulla National School

Whitegate National School

ENNIS

Barefield National School

Ennis Town Council in Drumbiggle

Clarecastle National School

Doora National School

Ennis CBS

Ennis Educate Together

Holy Family National School

Inch National School

Kilnamona National School

Knockanean National School

Scoil Criost Rí

Toonagh National School

SHANNON

Clonlara National School

Clonmoney National School

Sixmilebridge National School

Cratloe National School

Meelick National School

Newmarket-on-Fergus National School

Sixmilebridge National School

Parteen National School

Scout Hall, Shannon Banks

St Conaire’s National School

St Senan’s National School

St Tola’s National School

St Aidan’s National School

Stonehall National School

Ballycar National School

KILRUSH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Occupation:

Top priority: Getting more facilities for families

OFFERING the second link to the cosmetic trade of candidates in the Kilrush LEA, Dawn is the owner of CocoLemon hairdressers in Kilrush while Sarah Gould, the daughter of Dinny (IND) runs Riverside Hair & Beauty in Cree.

Dawn relocated to West Clare in 2019 and lives in Moveen. A better quality of life and attempting to get access to services for her son who is on the autism spectrum influenced their decision to move to Co Clare.

She is keen to increase the amount of footfall in Kilrush and believes it can really improve as an economic driver. Her interest in politics came from listening to Sinn Féin leader, Mary Lou McDonald (SF) and praised her for offering “common sense solutions”.

The Limerick native is aiming to garner a strong first preference vote than Violet-Anne Wynne’s return of 395 first preference votes when flying under the party banner for the 2019 local elections.

In her election manifesto, she said the Government has no plan on immigration and labelled their approach as “shambolic”.

Dawn says her passion is working with the public and taking their ideas on board. Feedback from the public must be taken on board as part of the Mars Cinema regeneration plans, she said while pointing out it could help to address the lack of facilities for young people in West Clare.

Occupation:

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Building thriving communities for our present and future generations

HEAD hunted by Fine Gael to run in the Kilrush LEA, Therese finds herself as one of three candidates in the parish of Kilmurry Ibrickane. Michael Shannon (FF) and Joseph Woulfe (II) have followed her into the race and this battle will be keenly contested.

The Mullagh woman who works with the Brothers of Charity emigrated in the 1980s but returned to West Clare in 1994 when her father’s health began to deteriorate, she had been working in Lister Hospital in Stevenage prior to this. Originally from Miltown Malbay, she is the daughter of PJ (RIP) and Kathleen Downes.

Work with Bank of Ireland brought her to Kilrush and beyond the county but she later ran her own business, An Scileán in Miltown Malbay. After meeting her husband, Francis they settled in Mullagh and had four daughters, Rebecca, Claudia, Jessica and Joanna, both Rebecca and Joanna are part of the Clare intermediate ladies football squad.

She remains involved with Kilmurry Ibrickane ladies football club, having previously served as Chairperson and Treasurer. Alongside James Egan, she founded the Mullagh Youth Club which began with only 26 persons attending and grew to draw over 150 from Miltown Malbay, Kilmurry Ibrickane, Kilmihil, Cooraclare and Inagh.

During her eight year term as Chairperson of the Mullagh Community Sports Field, she was central to many development projects including an outdoor accessible gym, a running track, lighting and meeting rooms. She is currently the registrar on the Executive of the Clare Ladies Gaelic Football Association, having also been Central Council Delegate plus a stint as Assistant Secretary at a provincial level.

Dinny Gould

Party: Independent

Occupation: Business owner

Top priority: Deliver improvements in water and wastewater infrastructure across West Clare

BY ENTERING the field in April, Dinny shook up what was an already competitive Kilrush local electoral area.

Born in Duagh in North Kerry in 1957, Dinny moved to West Clare in 1979, living in Kilmihil while he worked in Moneypoint, twelve months later he purchased a house in Cree and is still there forty four years later.

All three of his and Caroline’s daughters run different businesses, Sarah has the beauty salon in Cree, Karen operates their shop at the Cliffs of Moher and Tara oversees the takeaway in Cree.

Dinny himself has been in business for the last forty years. A loyal friend of the Carey family, he admitted that he is still a member of Fine Gael, his absence from the party ticket may yet be something the party will live to regret. He is keen to support local enterprise and bring more investment back into communities while he has asked the electorate to judge him on his actions over the next five years.

Gould firmly maintained that he has something to offer the people and the potential of him becoming a councillor has generated plenty of conversation within the Kilrush LEA.

He was part of a three-man syndicate which included ex footballer turned actor Vinnie Jones which owned the greyhound, Boavista. A bookie who has a strong profile, the odds are certainly in Dinny’s favour of taking a seat in West Clare.

Occupation:

Top priority: Protect our environment - allowing communities, farmers and businesses to thrive

CO-FOUNDER of Fracking Free Clare, Susan has been involved with the Green Party for the past twenty years. A late addition to the ticket, Susan’s fellow candidates are glad she didn’t get more time to build up her campaign, such is the manner in which she has impressed since joining the field the beginning of May.

She grew up on the family farm in Ballyea where she now lives with her Greek husband and two daughters. Griffin describes herself as a food grower with a deep appreciation for Co Clare’s natural beauty and its communities. A co-ordinator for Trees on the Land Scheme, she has organised fundraisers for Palestinian families and local tree planning initiatives.

The community activist is keen to connect the people in West Clare villages by improving local transport and tackling rural isolation. Susan wishes to see the Shannon Estuary developed to fairly benefit all the people of West Clare.

Susan is situated in the very eastern section of the Kilrush LEA where she is hopeful of pulling votes in Ballyea, Ballynacally, Kildysart and Lissycasey to build a strong foundation.

The French teacher at Coláiste Mhuire Ennis is the fifth of seven siblings, among her three brothers is former Clare hurler Tony Griffin. Her own sporting pedigree saw her swim for ten to fifteen years competing at Munster and national level for Ennis Swimming Club.

Whether she has left it too late to make a splash in a very competitive constituency remains to be seen.

Party: Green Party

Secondary teacher

Susan Griffin

Party: Sinn Féin

Salon owner

in West Clare

Dawn Bennett

Party: Fine Gael

Support worker

priority:

Theresa Doohan

KILRUSH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Independent Ireland

Occupation: Farmer

Top priority: Sowing the seeds for a new Ennis Hospital greenfield site

PUTTING himself forward for election was the “hardest decision in my life,” Kevin admitted.

The beef and dairy farmer is married with two children in Kilkee. He has worked in building and farming since completing his Leaving Certificate.

Forward together is the slogan of Independent Ireland who appear an unknown quantity when it comes to securing the support of the electorate, the West Clare farmer was among one of the first people to opt to join the party.

Hassett entered politics because he experienced “so many things that need to change”, he is aspiring to be the voice for local men and women to bring about such changes.

He has been critical of sitting councillors and remarked that nobody is fighting hard enough for West Clare. Roads, health and farming are among the areas suffering in his view. He has pledged to have a monthly zoom call with constituents where they can voice their concerns and ideas while also getting informed on progress for various projects.

Kevin has been involved in the Kerry Advisory Board and the Munster Dairy Producers Organisation. He has said the upcoming local and General Elections are up there with the most important in the history of the State, he may view himself as a potential candidate for the party in a General Election. The condition of the roads in West Clare along the N68 were labelled “an embarrassment” by Kevin who will be desperate to ensure he has a strong showing in the Kilrush LEAS.

Party: Irish Freedom Party

Occupation: Farmer / waiter

Top priority: Tackling anti-rural policies and needless overregulation of agriculture

ENTERING the breach as the Irish Freedom Party’s first candidate for a local election is John.

Currently working in a restaurant in Galway where he commutes to from the Hill home in Lissycasey, the 30-year old is also set to become a truck driver.

His father is Johnny Hill, former sales manager with T Sheils & Co Ltd who also spent 25 years on the Clare GAA Executive before stepping down as Vice Chairman in 2010. His uncle is well-known musician Noel Hill.

A vote from his immediate family will be challenging for June 7th considering his two sisters are living abroad and his parents are set to be out of the country visiting one of his siblings in Canada.

If elected to the County Council, John has said he will refuse to engage with the International Protection Accommodation Services (IPAS).

A former member of Sinn Féin, he left the party over their stance on the hate speech legislation.

Agriculture is one of his main issues and he feels it is sufficient to get him elected. Increasing Garda support is another item Hill would hope to improve. Critical over the lockdowns, John admitted that he did not receive a COVID-19 vaccine. His interest in politics was only sparked in recent years but he now finds himself running for a seat on the local authority, for this journey he does have a hill to climb.

Party: Fine Gael

Occupation: County councillor

Top priority: Continued investment into West Clare for roads, families, small businesses and offshore

BITH the self-appointed slogan as ‘the man who gets things done,’ Gabriel for the first time in his political career is the most experienced candidate on the ballot paper.

This is following the retirements of both Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) and Bill Chambers (FF). First elected in 2009, Cllr Keating has prevailed in the 2014 and 2019 local elections since leaving the financial services industry. His vote bounced from 952 (2014) to 1,494 (2019) and he is on course to record another successful election bid.

The Cross native is the President of Naomh Eoin GAA club and was the first Clare man to receive the presidential award for his contribution to the GAA.

In a decade spent working in Roscommon he was a key figure in the development of Hyde Park. Keating was a key figure in the 2011 opening of Loop Head Lighthouse as a visitor attraction, the project has created sixteen jobs and has already created an income to the local economy of €2.5 million.

Currently serving as the Leas Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Gabriel is in line for the top job for the next term of the Council.

He made a novel proposal in November 2019 for an ‘adopt a family’ scheme to be trialled across Clare to occupy vacant houses in rural Ireland. One of the stronger speakers of the Irish language, Gabriel won’t have to rely on the cupla focail to get him over the line.

Occupation: Safety officer

Top priority: To get our fair share of national and local funding

WEST Clare is not reaching its full potential, in the eyes of Ian, the outgoing Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District.

It is the second local election in a row that he heads into the campaign while serving as Cathaoirleach.

Before his election to the County Council, he was an elected member of Kilrush Town Council but was within the Fine Gael family. He left the party after he was not included on their ticket for the 2014 Council election, instead running Independent where he was the fourth of eight candidates elected.

In 2019 Lynch’s first preference vote fell to 1,026 and he was the last of five candidates elected and he did so without reaching the quota of 1,530 narrowly seeing off Joseph Woulfe (IND).

He said he entered politics to fight for a better West Clare. A volunteer with Kilrush Tidy Towns, the RNLI and Scattery Island Heritage, Ian was the first candidate out of the traps to declare their candidacy in the Kilrush LEA.

He contested the 2016 General Election but was the first councillor in the race to be eliminated. Marine capabilities from Loop Head to Kildysart can be developed, he believes while also insisting the offshore renewable energy potential for West Clare needs to be fully realised.

Struggles to get money for roads has been criticised by Ian along with the communication structures of the Council, he maintains a strategic approach is needed to reverse the tide of rural decline. The main message of communication he is now focusing on is securing as many first preferences as he can.

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services and infrastructure

RURAL Ireland matters was the slogan for Rita when she contested the 2020 General Election polling 4,136 first preferences prior to her elimination on the seventh count.

A sitting member of the Council for the past six months, Rita was co-opted following the retirement of Bill Chambers (FF). She has got stuck into the inner workings of the Council over the while and sits on the Rural Development SPC, the Clare Joint Policing Committee and the Regional Health Forum.

The McInerney family have had a successful retail business spanning generations and Rita previously served as CEO of Ennis Chamber.

Her interest in politics inspired Rita to achieve a masters degree in entrepreneurship and politics. Housing, health, farming, childcare, local businesses and transport structure are issues she is hearing about on a daily basis.

She has committed to lobby for increased GP and health services in West Clare if elected, to secure further funding for the transport network, to help the farming community, to pursue a sustainable plan for Moneypoint and surroundings.

The Doonbeg woman claimed there was “fake news” at the beginning of May when a slurring campaign claimed she was anti-farmers.

Rita has been a regular on RTÉ Radio any time another politician who uses the same ‘fake news’ phrase has been at his West Clare hotel, although she’ll keep an eye on his political progress, McInerney is fully focused on preserving her own career and battling to win a seat on the Council.

John Hill

Cllr Gabriel Keating

Party: Independent

Cllr Ian Lynch

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Business owner

priority: Improving physical and mental wellbeing through community

Cllr Rita McInerney

Party:

Kevin Hassett

KILRUSH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Tourism consultant

Top priority: To continue the delivery of the housing and public amenity projects

ELECTED in 2019, Cillian is the only one of the four Fianna Fáil candidates to have prevailed in a local election.

While he has experience of coming up short as a Green Party candidate in 2004, Cillian has been one of the more vocal councillors during the term when putting forward a plethora of ideas which has resulted in him receiving frequent media coverage and in particular on the airwaves of Clare FM.

He has pitched himself as a strong articulate voice to represent communities and said with West Clare being such “an amazing part of the world with amazing opportunities” that it needs councillors with a strong understanding of how those opportunities can be developed to deliver the most benefit for the people who live here.

His term on the Regional Health Forum has seen him mine data to assist in preparing a document for the Friends of Ennis Hospital, an health activist group that is a member of. Co-founder of Loop Head Tourism, Cillian is currently Chairman of the Clare Biodiversity and Heritage Forum.

In January 2020, he and his wife Mary announced the closure of Murphy Blacks, their popular Kilkee restaurant. He was elected Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD in June 2021.

He has argued that the electorate must vote for persons capable of understanding how local strategies can benefit areas. ‘Working for you all the time not just an election time’ is his slogan.

The Oscar may have went to one Cillian Murphy earlier this year, all the Doonaha based Cillian Murphy is hoping for is to keep his seat.

Occupation: Clerical officer with Aer Lingus Top priority: Inward investment into West Clare for high standards of employment

TWENTY years on from last contesting the local election, Michael is back on the ballot paper and hopeful of getting elected.

He was one of five Fianna Fáil candidates in 2004 when he polled 612 first preference votes, he is now one of four candidates for the party in 2024 and needs to be ahead of his fellow Kilmurry Ibrickane parishoners to stay in the hunt for a seat.

Two decades ago, he received a better vote than Murphy, if such a repeat scenario were to occur he will be in the mix for one of the coveted five seats.

The retirement of Bill Chambers (FF) led to his return to the political fold even though he remained a Fianna Fáil member. He was narrowly defeated by Rita McInerney in his bid to win the co-option to fill Chambers’ vacancy on the Council.

Born in Miltown Malbay, the son of Kathleen and the late TG Shannon was reared on the family farm.

He is married to Bernie (nee Kelly) from Clohaninchy in Quilty, their three sons Andrew, Niall and Ross who all represent Kilmurry Ibrickane on the football field.

Michael has worked with Aer Lingus for nearly thirty years where he deals with international companies on logistics and freight, he believes this experience has given an insight into how new industry can be brought to West Clare.

If successful, he believes he will be able to encourage investment in the area and represent all communities while creating an environment that can bring young people back to West Clare, funding for water and sewerage systems is crucial to this.

Alan Troy

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: CE Supervisor

Top priority: 20 years timeset foundations for vibrant and thriving communities

WITH the backing of Cllr PJ Kelly (FF), Alan has an experienced head behind him in his first run for election.

This support will assist in picking a nice portion of the Lissycasey vote but it will certainly be a challenge for Troy to garner as much support as the veteran.

The Carrigaholt native has been residing in Lissycasey for the past five years and while he may not do as well in the Kelly catchment, he is going to pick up a strong vote around the Loop Head Peninsula.

For the past thirty years, he has been in senior management roles such as General Manager of the West County Hotel, General Manager of Radisson Blu in Limerick, Talty’s Stores manager for five years and Operations Manager in glor for five and a half years.

He has recently been appointed the community employment supervisor for St John’s Development Association. Tackling planning restrictions on the N67, N68 and N85 have been earmarked as one of his immediate priorities but his primary goal is centred on community planning and rural development while aiming to challenge bureaucracy at all levels.

Alan said he is running to be a voice of reason for the people of the Kilrush LEA.

A familiar voice for Clare FM’s Greyhound Focus, Alan’s son Odhran last year raised €10,245 for West Clare Cancer Centre with his Shine A Light challenge where he scored two points, one with a hurley and sliotar, the other with a football in all 53 GAA fields in the county. The task is now swapping the points for votes.

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WITHIN a whisker or 184 votes of taking a seat in 2019, Joseph is back vying to win election to the County Council. While he received more first preferences than Cllr Lynch, he was bypassed when it came to transfers despite running a very strong campaign.

Such momentum that existed after he founded the Beef Plan Movement does not appear to be as evident on the ground, largely due to beef farmers associated with the group now having a level of satisfaction given that they are getting a greater price from beef, going from €3.20 in 2019 to €5.40 now, whether farmers will applaud Joe for his involvement by giving him a vote remains to be seen.

Self-employed since the age of 23, he has flagged the poor condition of roads in the Kilrush LEA as a big concern while pointing to the size of potholes across West Clare.

The Quilty man is also concerned with the water supply in multiple areas of the Kilrush LEA and noted that coastal protection remains a big issue.

The eldest of six children, he volunteers with Raidió Corca Baiscinn and is the treasurer of the West Clare Film Club for youth. Joseph has recently gone under the umbrella of Independent Ireland, whether this will impact his vote is unclear.

What is certain is that he needs to be leading the race among the three candidates in the parish of Kilmurry Ibrickane to stay in contention. The Woulfe is back knocking on the door but he has a more difficult task this time round to break it down.

Party: Independent Ireland

Occupation: Farmer / barber

priority: To increase the roads and hedge cutting budget

Joseph Woulfe

Cllr Cillian Murphy

Party: Fianna Fáil

Michael Shannon

KILRUSH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT: The key issue

n In July 2021, council officials and representatives announced that contracts were signed on

‘We’re wondering will the Greenway be forgotten?’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CONSTRUCTION on the €80m West Clare Railway Greenway is anticipated to start during the course of the next Council term and will be one of the biggest projects for West Clare.

In total, the West Clare Railway Greenway is set to span 85km and is split into the four sections. These include, Ennis to Ennistymon, Ennistymon to Miltown Malbay, Miltown Malbay to Moyasta and Kilrush to Kilkee.

An opening date of 2025 had previously been set by Council officials in 2022 but last June revised estimates were detailed where it was outlined that the local authority intends to submit an application to An Bord Pleanála by 2024 with the potential of starting construction by 2027.

Candidates in the Kilrush local electoral area were questioned by The Clare Echo on their stance on the proposed Greenway.

Of the 13 candidates, two of them, Kevin Hassett (II) and Joseph Woulfe (II), declined to say if they are for or against the proposals. Quilty-based Woulfe said, “I’m going to have a vote in my local town hall on what the people want”, such a vote is dependent on him winning a seat on the Council. “It won’t be my stance, it will be what the people in the locality want”.

Hassett, when asked for his stance responded, “whatever my people want”. He then flagged, “There’s €70m a year going into greenways for the last three years, we need value for the taxpayer’s money, we need a hospital”.

The beef farmer added, “With the right conditions and in the right area I am for it but going through people’s land and knocking down houses, I’ve been in these areas in the last

few weeks and that is exactly what is happening, these are the concerns of the people”.

Such claims were refuted by Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) who said no houses were to be knocked. “That is not what is happening, no way. We’ve met with landowners, if they have an issue we’re trying to work around it and ditches, we’re trying to improve their land”.

Speaking on The Electoral Chair’s election debate in the Kilrush LEA, Hassett claimed, “I’ve met landowners and there is no one for it. Ye have a CPO order”. Lynch replied, “There is no CPO order, we’re in consultation with the farmers,” and he added, “It only works with consensus and that is what we’re trying to achieve”.

Hassett said, “The people have said to me on the door, they are not for it, they are not totally against it, they are a proportion of the people and their views have to be respected”.

There is a worry on the lack of urgency for the project, Dinny Gould (IND) cautioned. “I’ve spoken to people who are on the greenway, they are all for it, when will it start? It is like anything in West Clare, there is a couple of years of a lapse and we’re left wondering will it be forgotten”.

Susan Griffin (GP) highlighted the need for consultation on the plans, “people should be consulted, as long as it is for the benefit of the locals as well as tourists”.

Years of work have been invested into the Greenway, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) stated.

“As someone whose family have land going on the greenway we are totally considering it. The West Clare Railway Greenway is a corridor, the Council are looking at loads of options, years of work has gone into this”.

Agreement for consultation with local farmers is essential, said Michael Shannon (FF) who noted that the routes have to be finalised.

uWEST CLARE GREENWAY

What is it? Cycleway spanning 85km across Clare split into four sections, including Ennis-Ennistymon, Ennistymon-Miltown Malbay, Miltown Malbay-Moyasta, and Kilrush-Kilkee

u Candidate stance t

Dawn Bennett (SF) – for Theresa Doohan (FG) – for Dinny Gould (IND) – for Susan Griffin (GP) – for Kevin Hassett (II) – undecided

John Hill (IFP) – undecided

Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) – for Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) – for Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) – for Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) – for Michael Shannon (FF) – for Alan Troy (FF) – for Joseph Woulfe (II) – undecided

the West Clare Greenway

Photo by Eamon Ward

KILRUSH MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

'West Clare impossible to predict but Gould on course to gain at Fianna Fáil's expense'

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FIRST-TIME candidate Dinny Gould is on course to take one of the five seats at the expense of Fianna Fáil in the Kilrush local electoral area according to a retiring councillor in West Clare.

Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) will not be contesting a local election in Clare for the first time in 50 years when the public cast their votes on June 7th.

Thirteen candidates are battling to win the five seats in the Kilrush LEA and according to Cllr Kelly “it is virtually impossible to predict”.

He outlined, “Two elections ago east of Kilrush, we had Bill Chambers (FF), Oliver Garry (FG) and myself. Oliver Garry dropped out so we had two, Bill dropped out and I’ve dropped out so there is a chance now that we could end up with nobody east of Kilrush, there is a catchment vote and I see indications in the last week coming together”.

Speaking on The Electoral Chair, The Clare

Echo’s political podcast, the Lissycasey native commented, “West Clare is going to be impossible to predict. We have lessons to learn from the past. I think Fianna Fáil are going to lose a seat. The man in Cree, Dinny Gould his name is all over the place, it is the subject of discussion so I think he will take a seat.

“Fine Gael will [take a seat] in the person of Gabriel, Ian Lynch will in Kilrush and the jigsaw starts then.

“There are three going in Mullagh, two will drop out and there will be somebody the highest and will the vote transfer? I’d suspect Michael Shannon will be the highest but we could end up with Michael Shannon, Rita McInerney and Cillian Murphy fighting for the last seat but it not be as simple as that.

“Sinn Féin in Kilrush are very hard to predict, it is very hard to predict the Kilrush vote, the last time in the local elections Violet-Anne Wynne went in Kilrush for the Council, I beat her six to one, months later she headed the poll in the county, it is virtually impossible to predict”.

Within the Kilrush LEA, there are multiple factors to influence voters, he explained. “In my own eastern area, because of my absence there are three running. You have my neighbour John Hill, Susan Griffin in Ballyea and Alan Troy.

“I think my absence meant there was a bit of competition, I’m told if I was there that they didn’t would be. Will they transfer to each other?

SCHOOL DEMANDS

“In the increasing section where I am, there is an increasing population in the catchment area, that increasing population has aroused problems like school demands, support services, community centres but as you move west the population is going down.

“The demands they have are not the demands we have, tourism is a big issue in the west, in between a lot of isolated places potholes is the issue but then you go into Kilrush you’re talking about social housing, lack of employment. They will tell you all about the great factories that were there in the past and nothing has been done in years. Effectively from Ballyea to Loop Head, you have four different agendas if not five”.

Given that Dawn Bennett (SF) runs a salon in Kilrush, her profile is higher than that of Deputy Wynne when she ran in 2019 and may give Sinn Féin a better vote in West Clare.

“I’d be very slow to speculate. In the past, I used to use a term ‘the born against vote’, when people came out and I won’t say F them all but they wanted to penalise the rest.

“Sinn Féin is getting that but there is a concern that we’re against it, they find the focus in that place, the people that shout loudest.

“Máire Lou, I believe she recently won a title as one of the best speakers in the world for

shouting, I think An Taoiseach gave her that title but shouting doesn’t get you anywhere”.

HIGH TURNOUT

Across the Kilrush LEA, PJ is confident of a high turnout. “People have different ways and values, the rural vote is a higher turnout vote than an urban.

“You could have a place in a certain town with a low turnout but they’d all be calling you the following day. In the rural areas, in my experience - and I’ve done nine elections - you’ve 75 to 80 percent turnout. This in effect could be 100 percent, the rural vote is far more consistent and I always used to get the 10-10-20 vote.

“It is a different vote that if I was inside with Ian Lynch fighting in Kilrush he’d be on a different vote base and if I was with Cillian Murphy and Gabriel Keating it is a different concern and a different vote, West Clare is different for that reason.

“We’re close enough to Ennis, we’re near enough to Ennis but far away enough at the same time. We’re lucky, in the past I serviced all the areas around like Cranny, Coolmeen, Kilmihil and Kildysart, I’d be promoting community programmes and the various items like supports for communities, things that weren’t there 10 years ago like creches are in big demand and are increasing by the day.

“I see two schools quite close to me in the West where they were losing students because they have a creche in the neighbourhood, they have set up the middle room in the school for their own creche before and after school, the demands of 20 years ago are different to today and tomorrow, the only permanent thing is change, there will be different demands in the future”.

n Dinny Gould’s campaign has grabbed the attention of the outgoing PJ Kelly (inset))

up a fully staffed mental health drop-in

UNIQUE among the 59 candidates in Clare as the only one to have a YouTube channel, Pat in a sense would be the first YouTuber elected to the County Council in Clare.

A first-time candidate, the Glantane in North Cork native worked for seventeen years in the vehicular unit of the Department of Transport based in Shannon. Prior to this, he worked as a taxi driver which ensured he was well aware of the geography of the area. The first-time candidate is based in Shannon Town and has lived there since the 1980s.

The father of three has said he was a community activist since he arrived in Shannon and has served on the board of the Credit Union.

There needs to be an adequate bus service to Shannon Airport and Colbert Station, he maintained. A former member of Sinn Féin, Pat said he “got pretty disillusioned with them” which prompted his exit from the party last year.

Mental health and wellbeing have been flagged as a key priority for Pat, in January he and Dr Mary Honan organised a free mental health and wellbeing conference which took place in Smithstown.

He previously served as station manager and a broadcaster with the now defunct Raidió Inbhearr na Sionna but he hopes to be broadcasting frequent messages from the Council Chambers if elected.

Occupation:

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MOVED from the Killaloe MD in advance of the 2019 election due to the redrawing of local electoral areas, Michael has fitted right in among the Shannon MD councillors.

Clonlara’s move into the Shannon MD left Truagh behind in the Killaloe MD which leaves Begley without a third of his voting base. He had been the sitting Mayor (Cathaoirleach) of the County Council in advance of the 2019 election where he ended up returning a first preference vote of 1,027 and was the third candidate elected.

A similar outcome would do wonders for Michael but he is facing more competition in his own neck of the woods this time round, particularly from Val Gillane (FG).

Initially elected in 1991 after unsuccessful attempts in 1979 and 1985, Begley lost his seat in 2004 as a Fianna Fáil councillor but came back in 2009 and has been present ever since as Independent. He is a fluent Irish speaker. In Clonlara, he has assisted with the development of sporting facilities and is the only person from the village to have held the office as Clare’s first citizen.

The completion of the Springfield flood defence at a cost of €3.5m will certainly help his vote along with the €600,000 spent on the town and village renewal scheme in Clonlara. His slogan is ‘Begley gets things done’, presumably this is not a nod to Callan’s Kicks impressions of Housing Minister, Darragh O’Brien (FF).

TWENTY-six year old Fursa is from Caherdavin but is attempting to cross county boundaries and seize the opportunity to represent the Shannon MD.

A past pupil of Christ King in Caherdavin, Fursa also attended Ard Scoil Rís before spending two years in LCFE and a further four years at TUS where he graduated with a degree in broadcast and film production.

Although his family are “all Limerick based”, his mother Teresa Kilmartin hails from Newmarket-on-Fergus.

He was involved with the scouts from the age of five which he credits which giving “a strong love of the countryside, hiking and nature”. He was the last addition to the ballot paper in the Shannon MD.

Cavanagh joined the Greens a year and a half ago. He works in Shannon Airport and is only too familiar with the deficiencies in the public transport system for persons commuting to the International Airport, he is keen to see cheaper bus fares introduced and better linkages with Limerick and Galway.

Fursa wants to see MidWest region promoted as a hub for producing renewable energy and to act as a voice for young people on the Council.

He is the first Green candidate in the Shannon MD so Fursa who is not overly familiar with the entire MD is entering the unknown on the double.

NOW there’s only one Crowe in the Shannon MD with Cathal spreading his wings to the Dáil, John will be content to keep his nest in his local district.

In 1999, Fine Gael only added one new seat in Clare and remained nine adrift of Fianna Fál’s majority.

What was significant for the party was that they added new blood in the guise of Pat Breen, Joe Carey, Tony Mulcahy and John Crowe, a future Junior Minister, TD, Senator and one hoping to be returned as a councillor for the fourth time.

During his time on the local authority, John has said he has witnessed many positive changes. Prior to his entry into local politics, Sixmilebridge had been without a councillor for twenty years, now they’ve had Cllr Crowe in situ for twenty five years.

A regular advocate for increasing the amount of traffic into Shannon Airport, Crowe has also been vocal in highlighting his concerns with traffic calming in his native village. The growth of Sixmilebridge has increased the pressure for services with the population tripling since 2007. John has ran for the Seanad on three elections where success had eluded him on each occasion.

The seventy year old is a former Mayor of Clare and says he has unfinished business yet to complete on the County Council. He is currently the Chairperson of the Clare Joint Policing Committee but no sirens will be sounding within the Crowe camp when the votes are to be counted.

OF THE 59 candidates bidding for office in Clare, the candidacy of Val was the only one to be exclusively announced on a political podcast. Chairperson of the Fine Gael branch in Clare, Madeline Taylor-Quinn dropped the exclusive when appearing on The Electoral Chair, The Clare Echo’s political podcast.

Clonlara based Val will need to pick a stronger vote than that received by retired Garda Eugene Long (FG)’s 619 from 2019 if he is to be in contention.

A native of Patrickswell, Val has lived in Clonlara for forty four years, he is an uncle of five-time All-Ireland winning Limerick hurler Aaron Gillane.

He is married to Newmarket-on-Fergus native Catherine Gillane (nee Freeman) with five children, all of whom lined out for Clonlara and Truagh/Clonlara on the hurling and camogie field.

Two and a half years ago, he retired from running Clancy’s Foodstore in Parteen. For the past ten years, he has had multiple sclerosis, this condition is what prompted his decision to retire from business. He had been running the family business for thirty six years in South Clare which certainly strengthens his profile in the Shannon MD.

He said he has grown tired of hearing “a lot of local promises”, Val had been approached in the past to run for the party on a local level. Fine Gael view Val as a potential dark horse while the clash of the count with the Munster SHC final will also leave him conflicted.

Party: Independent

County Councillor

priority: Greenway from UL through to O’Briensbridge onto Scariff

Cllr Michael Begley

Party: Green Party Occupation: Security officer Top priority: Reliable public transport

Fursa Cavanagh

Party: Fine Gael Occupation: County Councillor Top priority: Not available

Cllr John Crowe

Party: Fine Gael Occupation: Retired Top priority: Footpath maintenance

Val Gillane

Party: Independent Occupation: Retired Top priority: Setting

centre

Pat Barry

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Political assistant

Top priority: Better roads, footpaths, public sewage and wastewater

ALREADY working out of Leinster House, David is determined to make his own name in the political sphere.

He is a political assistant to Kildare Senator, Fiona O’Loughlin (FF) and if elected has committed that the role of a councillor will take precedent over his post on Kildare Street.

A member of Fianna Fáil for the past ten years which stretch back to when he was a student at St Caimin’s Community School in Shannon, the twenty eight year old is fighting to keep some Newmarket-on-Fergus representation on the County Council.

He holds an honours degree in politics and international relations from the University of Limerick.

He has said the Council are not doing enough when it comes to the bread and butter issues such as footpaths and maintenance. Griffin received national media attention earlier this year when questioning what plans Waterford senior hurling manager Davy Fitzgerald had when renovations began at The Bellsfort Inn.

For Fianna Fáil’s selection convention held in November, he was fourteen votes behind Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF). On three occasions, he has been appointed by the US Ambassador to their Young Leaders Council.

He is advocating for a Town Centre First plan for Newmarket-on-Fergus but his immediate focus needs to be on securing a strong vote from the village because that will be the difference between winning a seat and not getting one.

Rachel Hartigan

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Student

Top priority: To be a strong advocate for the forgotten part of Clare

AMONTH after losing out at a selection convention, party headquarters had added Rachel to the ballot after receiving strong representations from local members.

The twenty one year old is the youngest female candidate in Clare. Her internship in the constituency office of Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) is what sparked Rachel’s ambition to enter politics, she always had an interest in watching elections over Love Island. Although she was an unknown to many party members in November at the convention, she made an impression with several stalwarts leading the call for her addition.

From Ardnacrusha, she was a past pupil of Crowe’s in Parteen NS. She has stated she wishes to be a strong voice for South Clare and for people regardless of their age.

Deputy Crowe topped the poll on the last two occasions in the Shannon MD, where his votes spread and whether it is a Fianna Fáil, Westbury or personal vote will have a big bearing on where Rachel finishes in the field.

During her campaign, she has focused on highlighting the small issues such as footpaths, maintenance and public transport.

Rachel recently completed her final year examinations at the University of Limerick, the results of the big test on whether she has got the backing of the Shannon MD electorate will not be revealed until next Sunday.

Party: Aontú

Occupation: Project manager

Top

FLYING the flag as Aontú’s first candidate in Clare, John is hopeful of pulling votes from Clonlara and Ardnacrusha along with his base in Drumline, Newmarket-on-Fergus.

Since Peadar Tóibín TD (AON) founded Aontú in 2019, he has struggled to get potential candidates and John’s run will give a barometer as to how the party is viewed in Clare.

Haugh joined Aontú due to growing frustration with the political outlook, two years ago. A native of Montpelier in O’Briensbridge, John has lived in Co Clare for the past 13 years with his wife Karen. He went to school in Castleconnell and hurled for Ahane.

Deputy Tóibín’s defection from Sinn Féin to form the party over pro-life views is what appealed to John, a father of four.

The death of his daughter Ava is what has formed his pro-life stance. Prior to moving to Drumline in Newmarket-on-Fergus, John and his wife Karen resided in Killaloe. His native Montpelier which borders O’Briensbridge means he is without a portion of votes in SouthEast Clare that lie within the Killaloe Municipal District.

He is an active volunteer with the Bunratty Development Association. Qualified as a project manager, John has worked as an assistant director on television productions such as Game of Thrones, Vikings and Hidden Assets since completing a masters degree in 2007. So far as his political career is concerned, it is lights, camera and action for Haugh, what happens in the next scene will be determined by the voters.

Occupation: County Councillor

Top priority: The One Shannon Hub - for the vital regeneration of

ALTHOUGH she is a sitting councillor and contested the 2019 election, Donna was not elected.

She ran in the Ennis MD amassing 277 first preference votes prior to her elimination on the third count. Over six months later, she did become a county councillor.

Following the death of her close friend and colleague, Mike McKee, Donna was selected to be co-opted to the County Council in January 2020.

She sits on the Social Development Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) and the Local Traveller Accommodation Advisory Committee.

Currently, Donna is the Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District, she became the first councillor to hold the position.

While Donna is the first female to wear the mayoral chains in terms of the Shannon MD, she follows in the footsteps of Brigid Makowski (IND), Patricia McCarthy (IND) and Cathy McCafferty (SF/IND) in representing the town, they had either served on the Shannon Town Commissioners, Shannon Town Council and Clare County Council. Already she has been selected as Sinn Féin’s General Election candidate in Clare.

In December 2021 technical difficulties saw McGettigan lose connection while attending a meeting on the Council’s Budget virtually via Microsoft Teams and she was unable to vote.

Upgrading Ennis Hospital to model three status and promoting Shannon Airport including the provision of a rail spur have been listed as some of Donna’s key priorities when canvassing. Battling with Cllr Crowe and Cllr Ryan to top the poll.

Top

and

our green and public spaces

OFFERING to give a strong voice for Shannon Town, Keith said he has been threatening running for elections since he was in secondary school but is now putting his money where his mouth is.

Wolfe Tones GAA Club, Shannon Athletics Club, Shannon Community Games and Limerick Lawn Tennis Club are among the groups Keith is currently involved with while he previously volunteered teaching English classes to Ukrainians up until twelve months ago.

The thirty seven year old has said the town has been neglected. He has criticised the leave no trace policy in Shannon Town Park. McNamara has never been a member of a political party.

Among those in his corner are retiring Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) and he will need to secure a significant number of Flynn’s vote to be in contention. Maintenance or lack of has been a big bugbear for Keith.

Regeneration of public spaces, investment for fully accessible community facilities, delivery of public services to aid housing development, improving public transportation links and reviewing rates for small businesses have been listed as key items on Keith’s agenda.

The father of three has said he is a true Independent candidate having not been linked to any other party, unlike some of his fellow candidates.

priority: A light rail system servicing Shannon Airport

John Haugh

Party: Sinn Féin

Shannon

Cllr Donna McGettigan

Party: Independent

Occupation: Data assistant

priority: The regeneration

maintenance of

Keith McNamara

David Griffin

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Party: Fine Gael

Occupation: Business owner Top priority: Affordable housing and free warmer upgrades for our ageing population

WITH what is one of the biggest political comebacks in Clare, Tony is back on the ballot paper eight years are losing his seat on the Seanad.

Newcastle West native Tony was an elected member of Clare County Council from 1999 to 2011.

Indeed it was his running mate Cllr Crowe who approached him to put his name forward. He also served as a Town Councillor on Shannon Town Council from this period.

In 1999, Mulcahy with 451 first preferences was the last of five councillors elected in the Shannon electoral area after Patricia McCarthy (IND), Cllr Crowe (FF), the Seán Hillery (FF) and Cllr Pat McMahon (FF).

By 2004 with 1,195 first preferences he was the second candidate elected in a strong performance for Fine Gael with Cllr Crowe topping the poll but McCarthy again was first elected, followed by Mulcahy and Crowe.

Five years on, Tony again secured his status as the second candidate elected in Shannon, Crowe topped the poll and this time was first elected. During his time on the local authority, Tony was Chair of the Fine Gael grouping and also served as Mayor of Clare in 2009.

A bid for the Dáil was made by the Shannon man in 2011. He received 11.8 percent of the first preference vote, the sixth highest in a field of sixteen. He was eliminated on the tenth count as Fine Gael retained two seats in Clare with success for Pat Breen (FG) and Joe Carey (FG).

Tony is confident Shannon Town can elect three candidates, if that becomes a reality then his political comeback will be a pleasant one.

Party: Independent

Occupation: Businessman

Top priority: Not available

Party: Fianna Fáil

Occupation: Fitter / county

councillor

Top priority: To continue working for the people of the Shannon MD

ANATIVE of Kilrush, Conor relocated to Sixmilebridge from Lahinch in 2021.

He contested the General Election for Renua in February 2020 but is now running as an Independent as the party no longer exists.

He was left frustrated by the party with their failure to assist in promoting him for the General Election where he received 187 first preference votes.

His father David O’Brien served as the branch manager of AIB in Kilrush and his mother was an air hostess for Aer Lingus.

After leaving university where he obtained a law degree, O’Brien worked in the United Kingdom for two years. Roads, footpaths and amenities are among some of the issues flagged by Conor in the Shannon MD along with immigration, crime and trying to generate more industry in Shannon.

Traditionally a voter for the Progressive Democrats, Conor did canvass for General Election candidates running for the PDs.

ASIXTEEN year wait was ended for Pat when he returned as a councillor in February 2020.

A county councillor from 1999 to 2004, O’Gorman unsuccessfully contested local elections in 2004, 2009 and 2014.

The Cratloe man received the nomination from party members to fill the seat vacated by Cathal Crowe (FF) following his election to Dáil Éireann. Having lost out in his last three elections, O’Gorman is now viewed as the most experienced Fianna Fáil candidate in the Shannon MD.

On his return to the County Council, the ex Mayor of Clare has been very active on social media and this has heightened his profile in Shannonbanks and Westbury, areas where he would not have been well known in the past.

His father, Joe previously served as an elected representative on the local authority and was also co-opted in 1971.

He was a selector to the Limerick minor footballers last season when they were managed by John Ryan, he was part of Ryan’s management for the Limerick team crowned All-Ireland Junior ladies football champions.

The Shannon Flood Relief Scheme is among the big projects that O’Gorman wishes to see progress on. He has criticised the lack of progress with the South Clare Strategic Development Zone, Europe’s first university town which will be located on the border between Clare and the University of Limerick.

Pakie is often one of the umpires on duty for Cratloe referee Jim Hickey and he’ll be anxious that hawk-eye is not called upon to gauge his vote.

Party: Sinn Féin

Occupation: Artist

Top priority: Build a community centre for Shannonbanks, Westbury, Carriag Midhe and Parteen James Ryan

SELECTED as Sinn Féin’s second candidate in the Shannon MD, James is hoping to benefit from transfers from Cllr McGettigan along with forming his own strong vote.

Now living in Westbury with his wife Jiale and two children, he met his wife while living in China for close to thirteen years where they ran an art gallery while he worked full-time in logistics.

Since returning to Ireland in 2015, James worked in Shannon in the field or airport hire but has now retrained and works as a part-time teacher.

In 2018, he became a member of Sinn Féin but said, “I would have been a Shinner all my life”.

Originally from Shannonbanks, James lives in Westbury, an area he said is often ignored, “I’d say Westbury, ShannonBanks the entire area is ignored in comparison to other areas, it is because of geographical distance, the depots are towards the Shannon side, people pay tax here too and we should have a higher expectation of what we get”.

Some of the items he wishes to deliver on include, a youth club for the area, more affordable and social housing, better maintained amenities and facilities, developing designated community garden areas and improving crime prevention measures.

Cllr McGettigan is Sinn Féin’s only representative on the Council but James is optimistic that will change and felt three councillors in Clare would be a great achievement. Whether it can change in the Shannon MD is dependent on how symbiotic the transfers are between them.

Party: Independent Occupation: Self-employed / county councillor

Top priority: Housing - to get more State funding for affordable homes

IN THE political history of PJ Ryan, it was third time lucky in getting elected to the Council. Having ran unsuccessfully for Fianna Fáil in 1999 and 2004, PJ after being denied a place on the party ticket went Independent got elected and has been there since despite requests from the party to return.

It was only on the final count in both campaigns that PJ got elected but it’s the result as opposed to the order that will be his main priority.

During the outgoing Council term, Ryan has been active on the topic of Shannon Airport, seeking better marketing and advertising of the Airport. In 2017, he revealed that attending a suicide prevention class as a member of Shannon Lions Club proved invaluable as it assisted him to save a life.

In 2019, he recorded his highest ever vote and he has been tipped to surpass this. Ryan polled 1238 first preference votes in the Shannon Municipal District for 2019, a sharp rise on his previous tallies of 825 (2014), 1013 (2009), 700 (2004) and 452 (1999).

In this term, he was elected as Mayor of Clare in 2021. Housing, a model three hospital for Co Clare, a support programme for mental health, the redistribution of excess traffic from Dublin Airport to Shannon Airport and protection of the community against crime have been listed in his manifesto. Farmers who have to change their way of farming need to be compensated, the oil distributor maintained.

Conor O’Brien

Cllr Pat O’Gorman

Cllr PJ Ryan

Tony Mulcahy

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT: The key issue

‘Totally unknown’ how Shannon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CHANGE is inevitable in the Shannon Municipal District with at least one new councillor guaranteed a spot around the table.

Long-serving duo Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) and Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) are bowing out of politics after 49 and 25 years respectively in local government, paving the way for at least two new additions to the Shannon MD.

Sitting Cathaoirleach of the Shannon MD, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) will go before the people of her beloved Shannon for the first time. She contested the 2019 election but in the Ennis MD.

The return to politics of ex Senator Tony Mulcahy (FG) following an eight year hiatus will also shake things up. Keith McNamara (IND) and Pat Barry (IND) both based in Shannon Town are less well known but will hope to be in the mix.

In situ since 1999 is Cllr John Crowe (FG), both he and Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) are expected to poll well with Cllr Michael Begley (IND) and Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) facing competition in South Clare from Val Gillane (FG), Rachel Hartigan (FF) and James Ryan (SF).

Battling to keep a Newmarket-on-Fergus voice on the local authority are David Griffin (FF) and John Haugh (AON), while Fursa Cavanagh (GP) has connections to the village through his mother Teresa Kilmartin.

THE FINAL SPOT

According to Cllr McMahon, Mulcahy will take a seat to join the outgoing councillors while the final spot remains “totally unknown”. He said, “It looks like six are fairly easy to call, the seventh is absolutely, totally unknown because there will be a new councillor, maybe there could be two new councillors but from that reasoning our present chairperson (Donna McGettigan) will top the poll and then you have PJ Ryan and John Crowe, Michael Begley, Pat O’Gorman who have all worked hard and are well-known, the other one is

completely open in my mind.

“David Griffin, I would hope naturally gets in, people tell me there’s two Fianna Fáil quotas there and I’d be hoping that happens”.

Fianna Fáil are running three candidates this time round, they are spread out

in Newmarket-on-Fergus, Cratloe and Westbury but given O’Gorman previously lost his seat and was co-opted to his current role, there is a fear it may be an area the party drops representation. However, McMahon maintained Cllr O’Gorman

ing more people and doing more work for people, they are communicating to him more. There’s people down on the Limerick border that have said they’ve never seen a politician in their life.

“He has enough, he has a strong team locally, he was only barely beaten the last time but he was always involved in local organisations which is important, in that respect I’d say he is strong”.

Seats are up for grabs, Cllr Flynn stressed. He pointed out, “The current Sinn Féin councillor never ran in Shannon for the County Council elections, in fact in the last election she ran in Ennis and was unsuccessful. Unfortunately a very good colleague of mine who I served with on the Town Commissioners, the Town Council and the County Council, Mike McKee passed away, he was a person I had great respect for.

“Donna was co-opted and got nearly a fullterm, she came in with no experience whatsoever but we all helped her the best we could and brought her along to make sure that she was relevant to the seat that she got because Mike was very experienced. This time, she has to go out and defend that seat”.

Flynn added, “It is a fulltime job, there are people that are good on computers and Sinn Féin are very good at it, they are masters at social media and if you were only picking up an empty paper bag they are on screen.

is a much stronger candidate than he has been previously.

“He seems to be known more, he is well up on computers and modern communication. He was ahead of the posse in the computer scenario which has helped him a huge amount, he is meet-

“I don’t do social media because I’m too busy serving the community and doing real jobs. Pakie was mentioned there, the amount of times I’ve heard him say ‘I put it up on my Facebook page’, he is working full-time too.

“To be a relevant public representative on the ground they need to stop with their balony of Facebook and social media - keyboard war-

riors I call them - and serve the people.

“With Pat and myself gone, it means there are two seats up for grabs. The five sitting councillors undoubtedly, one would imagine, they will be returned. As for Tony Mulcahy returning to the fold who knows, you couldn’t read it because that man has served in the Oireachtas, the Town Commission, the Town Council, County Council.

“I wouldn’t like to be in his shoes making a return because I’m leaving on my own terms after being one of the highest contributors on the Council and one of the highest percentages of attendance”.

SERVE THE PEOPLE

Elected councillors need to better serve their electorate by physically attending meetings, the Shannon Town representative argued. “Since Covid came in all this so called hybrid attendance being noted is an absolute joke.

“I know some people think it is fantastic but I’ve seen people tuning in when they’re in cars, out on holidays, that is not serving the people, we are of the generation where we honour the mandate we get from the public, we go into the Chamber, analyse and contribute where we need to on debates and do our best to support the people.

“As I said to you when you did that great interview, I know you were the only journalist in the county that could articulate in a fair minded way for councillors because your attendance at county council meetings as the fourth estate has to be admired and I’m not saying that because I’m going out of politics, I don’t have to be saying it.

“The facts speak for themselves, Clare FM are doing a certain amount, The Clare Champion, I delivered it when I was a child back in West Clare, it is gone very watery and it doesn’t get to the pitch of politics. I think at times it does a disservice to the public out there that are buying that paper”.

n Cllr Donna McGettigan with outgoing Cllr Pat McMahon. McMahon exits local politics after 49 years while (below) Cllr Gerry Flynn, pictured with former taoiseach Enda Kenny (FG) is departing his role as a public representative after 25 years; (inset) former senator Tony Mulcahy is expected to poll well

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

will transpire

n David Griffin (FF), pictured erecting a poster as he kicked off his campaign this year, is amongst the young pretenders hoping to take a seat in the Shannon Municipal District along with the like of other newcomers Rachel Hartigan, Fursa Cavanagh and Keith McNamara

SHANNON MUNICIPAL DISTRICT

Continue

Cllr John Crowe, Val Gillane, Seán Kelly MEP and John Mullins

EUROPEAN ELECTION 2024: Ireland South

Three Clare candidates bid for

EUROPEAN ELECTIONS

2024: IRELAND SOUTH CANDIDATES

Derek Blighe (Ireland First)

Lorna Bogue (Rabharta)

Graham de Barra (Independent)

Christopher VS Doyle (Independent)

Susan Doyle (Social Democrats)

Mary Fitzgibbon (Independent)

Kathleen Funchion (Sinn Féin)

Paul Gavan (Sinn Féin)

Niamh Hourigan (Labour)

Billy Kelleher (Fianna Fáil) * sitting MEP

Seán Kelly (Fine Gael) *

Ross Lahive (The Irish People)

Michael Leahy (Irish Freedom Party)

Una McGurk (Independent)

Michael McNamara (Independent)

John Mullins (Fine Gael)

Patrick Murphy (Aontú)

Cynthia Ní Mhurchú (Fianna Fáil)

Ciaran O’Riordan (Independent)

Grace O’Sullivan (Green Party) *

Cian Prendiville (PBP-SOL)

Eddie Punch (Independent Ireland)

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE European elections are often overshadowed by the local equivalent, however they will be keenly observed in County Clare this year with no less than three candidates from the Banner County going forward for their shot at a seat in Strasbourg.

Corofin and Cratloe’s Eddie Punch (IND) when announcing his candidacy early last month in The Clare Echo.

Clare constituents will be acutely aware that by voting for Michael McNamara on June 6, they risk losing a strong independent Clare voice in Dáil Éireann who made a name for himself when serving as Chair of the Special Committee on Covid-19 Response.

With 23 candidates in total contesting just five seats, competition for a European seat in Ireland South is high and compared to the local elections, the size and spread of the field makes this a much more unpredictable affair.

represented in the making of decisions that affect their lives. I have questioned the Government and tried to make them explain the decisions they make, and I will be asking people for their support to do the same in Europe where more and more of the decisions that affect us in Ireland are made,” he said.

NEWCOMERS

Mick Wallace (Independents 4 Change) *

Unarguably the headline candidate from Clare is Independent TD Michael McNamara. The Scariff man became the third Clare candidate in Ireland South alongside Michael Leahy (IFP) from

On his reasons for opt-

With two Dáil terms under his belt, one as a Labour TD (2011-2016), Michael has long harboured ambitions to serve as an MEP, previously running in 2009 for the North-West constituency where he polled 12,744 first preference votes which worked out as 2.6 percent of the valid votes, Marian Harkin (IND), Pat ‘the Cope’ Gallagher (FF) and Jim Higgins (FG) were the successful candidates for that election.

ing to go for Europe, Deputy McNamara explained,

“Over the past few years, many people have felt un-

Cratloe’s Eddie Punch (Independent Ireland), meanwhile, will fancy his chances of causing an upset after last week topping a 24-hour poll conducted by Agriland which saw him garner almost double the support of the second placed Ireland South candidate.

Mr Punch, the former General secretary of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA), won 28% support from a total poll

n Independent TD Michael McNamara is bidding for a European seat alongside fellow Claremen Eddie Punch (right) and Michael Leahy (far right)

seat at the table in Strasbourg

of 1301 readers. The Clare native’s 370 votes exceeded support for sitting MEPs Seán Kelly (FG, 15%) and Billy Kelleher (FF, 14%) and placed him clear of fellow Clareman, Deputy McNamara (Ind, 13%).

According to Agriland’s Frances McDonald: “The results illustrate

litical newcomers are giving seasoned politicians are a run for the votes and that some seats are more hotly contested than others.”

Eddie stated: “While all such polls represent a snapshot in time, my showing in the Agriland poll underlines the message that’s been relayed to me on the doorsteps throughout the constituency in recent weeks. People want a change, a fresh, independent voice and a candidate who knows the lie of the land in Brussels.”

Corofin architect and chairman of the Irish Freedom Party, Michael Leahy is the third Clare candidate vying for a European seat.

Kerry native Michael moved to Kilrush when he was aged 14 and has lived in Co Clare since, he now resides in Corofin with his wife. From 1993 to 1995, he was President of the Ennis Chamber of Commerce and Leahy spent five years as a board member of An Bord Pleanála from 2012 to 2017.

This will not be Michael’s first time running for office. He was an unsuccessful candidate for Ennis Town Council in 1995 while for the 2020 General Election, he represented the Irish Freedom Party, polling 704 first preferences and was eliminated on the third count.

On his bid to become an MEP, Michael - who disputes being labelled as far right - told The Clare Echo in a statement, “By far the greatest threat this country faces at present is the fact that the government has completely lost control of our borders and of our immigration regime, which is now internationally regarded as a fiasco.

“This is by far the most common concern of the people I have met as I have been canvassing throughout Ireland South since last October. This issue has now reached such a state of crisis that if it is not dealt with urgently, it has the potential to undermine the stability of the State, and I appeal to the parties of government to get a grip and deal with this very seri-

ous national issue.” VISIT TO CLARE Cuurently, Fine Gael holds two seats with MEP Seán Kelly and Deirdre Clune, who recently announced her retirement and will not be contesting the election.

The other sitting MEPs from Ireland South include Fianna Fáil’s Billy Kelleher, Mick Wallace (Independents 4 Change) and Grace O’Sullivan (Green Party), all of whom are seeking reelection.

On a recent visit to Clare, Ms O’Sullivan told The Clare Echo that Mike McNamara’s addition to the ticket will impact outgoing MEP’s chances of garnering support in Clare.

“Michael is a great candidate, there’s no doubt about it and he’s been very effective in Leinster House,” she

said. “So Michael will take votes from across the board. Anyone who comes in will have a pool of support in their home area. Michael’s a challenger for all of us.

In February 2024 less than 40% of MEPs were women. Ireland fares slightly worse, with currently 8 male MEPs to 5 female MEPs. Grace added that being a woman gives voters in Clare another reason to support her bid. “In my own case, I’m hoping [people will vote for] someone with experience in the European Parlia ment over the last few years who has been an environ mental activist for most of my life … and being a

woman as well, we need to keep women at the table, that’s important.

“I’m hoping my long life experience with Green Peace and different environmental organisations, my experience in the Seanad, in the European Parliament will be enough to get me over the line.”

Clare County Council supports Not Around Us campaign

Clare County Council, Clare Local Community Development Committee and Healthy Clare are delighted to continue supporting the Not Around Us campaign here in County Clare.

Not Around Us is ‘about promoting an environment where it is easier for those who smoke to quit, and stay quit, and to help de-normalise smoking for the next generation’.

The purpose of the Not Around Us campaign is to:

1. Help Protect children and young people from second hand smoke

2. Contribute to the Denormalisation of smoking for children and young people

3. Reduce Environmental Nuisance, the cost of cleaning and damage that discarded tobacco products create

4. Signpost to the HSE Quit services

5. Raise Awareness and Support amongst all stakeholders in Clare on tobacco/vape free Ireland and everyone playing a part in supporting it.

World No Tobacco Day takes place this year on May 31st. This year, Active Ennis will become a

smoke free campus. Active Ennis’s participation in the Not Around Us Campaign will contribute to help create a healthier and smokefree environment in Clare County. By supporting this initiative, Active Ennis is helping to protect children and young people from second-hand smoke exposure and promoting a positive cultural shift. “We continue to promote the positive message of healthier lifestyles for all. By encouraging and supporting these actions we are educating everyone,” said Tim Forde, General Manager of Sport & Recreation, Clare County Council.

FAI Clare and Clare Schoolboys are also on board as part of this year’s campaign. “FAI Clare and Clare Schoolboys/Soccer League are delighted to support and be part of the Healthy Clare countywide ‘Not Around Us’ campaign,” said Denis Hynes of FAI Clare.

FAI Clare and the 22 Clare Schoolboys/Girls Soccer League’s Grassroots Community Clubs catering for close to 3,500 young children aged 6-16 encourage healthy participation in sport and physical activity. Involvement in the Healthy

Clare “Not Around Us” campaign will help FAI & Clare Schoolboys/ Girls Soccer League to raise awareness for club volunteers, parents, supporters & young children of the need to be positive role models off the pitch as much as on the pitch.

Mary Mac Mahon, Senior Health Promotion & Improvement officer, HSE Mid-West, says “Quit MidWest is proud to support the Not Around Us initiative in County Clare. This year, World No Tobacco Day focuses on protecting children from the tobacco industry which is exactly what Not Around Us aims to do. If we want the next generation to grow up smoke and vape free, we need to protect the environments in which they live, learn and play.”

Not Around Us is about creating tobacco (& vape) free environments, which help to:

• reduce exposure to second hand smoke

• reduce smoking

• support cessation

• raise awareness of the harms of smoking and,

• Enable access to the free HSE Quit service’s supports for anyone who wants to quit

Not Around Us and World No Tobacco Day offer golden opportunities for all partners to work together so we can protect young people from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping – so that they might avoid decades of nicotine addiction.

For anyone who is smoking, Mary urges them to contact the Quit Mid-West team at: 065 6865841 or email quit.midwest@hse.ie. Your

local Stop Smoking Advisor will offer you free stop smoking support either face to face, by phone orvideocall. When asked, our clients said the Quit Mid-West service is friendly and non-judgemental. You can quit and we can help. Call us at 065 6865 841 or email quit.midwest@hse.ie

What can you do to support Not Around Us?

• Don’t smoke in places where children and young people are likely to be.

• Support participating organisations to be a positive role model for

children and young people. • Spread the Not Around Us message with family and friends. If your organisation is interested in participating in the campaign please fill out the “expression of interest” form at (clarecoco.ie) and send it back to healthyclare@clarecoco.ie.

Kelly Slattery (Clare County Council Age Friendly Programme Manager), Tim Forde (General Manager of Sport & Recreation Clare County Council), Mary McMahon (Senior Health Promotion & Improvement Officer, HSE Mid-West) and Samantha McCarthy (Clare County Council Healthy Clare Coordinator)

Tim Forde (General Manager of Sport & Recreation Clare County Council)

Green Schools Flags awarded to 25 student led programmes

by Elaine Tubridy news@clareecho.ie

THE 2023/2024 school academic year marks the 26th year of the An Taisce Green Schools programme in Ireland.

This month saw 25 Clare schools being awarded the Green Schools Flag for their work on the themes of Litter and Waste, Energy, Water, Travel, Biodiversity and Global Citizenship.

Green Schools is a long-term, whole-school action for the environment. It is a student-led pro-

gramme with involvement from the wider community. The programme is operated and co-ordinated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce in partnership with Clare County Council.

Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer with Clare County Council, outlined, “To date, 93 primary schools, 15 secondary schools and 3 preschools from across County Clare have received Green Schools Flags. It is a fantastic achievement for any school to receive a Green Schools Flag award. It

requires commitment from school management and dedication from a Green School committee and Green School co-ordinator, to implement a seven-step programme over a two-year period. I would like to thank and acknowledge all schools across Clare participating in the Green School programme for all their hard work.”

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, extended his congratulations and gratitude to all 25 Clare schools that received a Green Schools flag. He explained, “The Green Schools programme supports our Climate Action Plan and its links to raising awareness and taking climate action, not just within the school community but also across the wider community, is invaluable.”

Sarah Hegarty, Clare’s Green Schools Travel Officer with An Taisce, said: “I wish to commend Green Schools students, school staff and families who helped schools in achieving and renewing the Green Schools Flag 2024. Like Clare County Council, An Taisce is a Sustainable Development Goals champion and the actions the Green School committees take to support sustainable living is critical for future generations, not only in Clare and Ireland but across the world.”

The following schools received a Green Schools Flag in this awards cycle: Annagh NS (Miltown Malbay), Boston National School (Tubber), C.B.S Primary School (Ennis), Clarecastle NS, Clonmoney NS, Clooney NS, Gaelscoil Iosef Naofa, Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg (Inis), Kilkee Community College,

l FANTASTIC ACHIEVEMENT: Pictured at the Green School Awards at the Clayton Hotel, Galway were Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer, Clare County Council and Sarah Hegarty, An Taisce Green Schools Travel Officer for County Clare

Kilmurry McMahon NS, Kilnaboy NS, Lahinch NS, Mary K’s Childcare and Montessori (Doora), Scoil Mhuire (Corofin), Scoil na Maighdine Mhuire (Newmarket on Fergus), Shragh NS, St. Aidan’s NS (Shannon), St. Clare’s School (Ennis), St. Enda’s National School (Lisdoonvarna), St. Flannan’s NS (Inagh), St. John Bosco Community College (Kildysart), St. John’s NS (Cratloe), St. Michael’s Community College (Kilmihil), Stonehall NS, Tuamgraney NS

Minister Noonan launches Grasslands Trail in Burren National Park

Minister of State For Nature, Heritage & Electoral Reform Malcom Noonan launched the Grasslands Trail at lieve Carran Nature Reserve in the Burren National Park last week, writes Elaine Tubridy

The Grasslands Trail takes visitors on a tour through the amazing diversity of Ireland’s semi-natural grasslands. The Trail features a network of nine sites around Ireland and more are expected to be added over time.

Speaking at the launch Minister Noonan said: “Our natural grasslands act as reservoirs for biodiversity. Their decline in recent years is a serious cause

for concern because of the variety of beautiful birds, insects and flowers that depend on them for survival. All of the sites featured in this wonderful Grasslands Trail show that through careful, sensitive management such as extensive grazing through a farming for nature approach, we can prevent the disappearance of these incredible places.”

After visiting a property of 430 acres of high biodiversity value in Aglish which was recently purchased by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) he travelled to Inagh where he toured the “Return To Nature” church biodiversi-

ty project. This project was worked on by the local Tidy Towns group in conjunction with the NPWS and the Clare County Council Biodiversity Officer Barry O’Loughlin.

Senator Roisin Garvey, who hosted Minister Noonan, said: “Minister Noonan is very welcome to Clare to see the great work that has been and is being done in locally to maintain and improve our biodiversity. Minister Noonan and the NPWS under him have done more to help our natural habitats nationally and locally, than any other Minister in the history of the state and we are delighted to host him here today.”

BIODIVERSITY: Minister Malcolm Noonan and Senator Roisin Garvey on Slieve Carran

‘The

support I received saved my life’

Stacey Collins shares her amazing 12 stone Slimming World transformation story

WHEN I started Slimming World, I didn’t start of my own free will.

My sister got me to agree that we should join together. At the beginning I thought this was going to be the same as diets I have done in the past. I would do it for a few weeks, lose a few pounds, before going back to my old ways. When my sister started to see that I had finally found something that was working for me, she decided to step away. Before I joined, my family was scared and worried about my weight and health. I was at my heaviest at 23 stone I was struggling to walk upstairs, without being breathless, I was always in pain with my joints. I wasn’t able to play with my nephews and niece for long before I got breathless and tired. At the start I was annoyed that my sister had made me go to group but now I know it was the best thing she has ever made me do.

I am now able to run up and down the stairs without being breathless. My joints rarely give me any pain and I get to run around with my nephews, nieces and friends’ kids for hours. I am very thankful to my sister and the rest of my family for encouraging and supporting my Slimming World journey. They have saved my life.

Now I am 12 stone lighter. I started my journey at 23 stones 11 and half pounds. When I saw that number on the scale, I was angry with myself for letting myself get to that weight. I went years not stepping on the scales or looking at myself in the mirror. I had to tell myself that the scales and mirror should not be my focus on this journey, I need to focus on the food I was eating, the movement I should be doing and what I was feeling in myself. After the first week I got my half stone cert, came in with a 8 and half pound loss and after the second week I got my 1 stone cert. After a month I was feeling great. I was

moving more, sleeping better, and my mental health was getting better. I didn’t have a loss every week. On those weeks I have to remind myself that this is a journey not a race and it is going to be a long, emotional and trying journey but take it bit by bit and I will get to my goal, one step at a time.

I have achieved so many milestones on this journey, 24 weight loss certificates, 5 body magic certificates, my club 10 and most recently my club 50 award. In my group I have won a few slimmer of the week and month, Greatest loser 2023, women of the year 2023, Miss Slinky 2023, Greatest loser 2024. I never thought I would get any of these awards. With them framed and hung on my wall, they are there to remind me that I have worked hard on myself to get this far and I am so proud of myself for making my life health-

ier and happier.

I have battled with my weight since I was a child. I have no memory of being a healthy weight. I was put on medication that made me gain a lot of weight. This weight made me a target for bullying in school as well as doctors and health care professionals making comments about me. I did eat healthy as a child. I would choose carrots and tomatoes over chocolate. I started to believe that food was the reason for my weight, so I turned to food as a comfort.

As I got older my weight got worse. My relationship with food was not good. I would eat things that I shouldn’t. I am coeliac, so I shouldn’t eat anything with gluten but I would sneak food with gluten. I have tried to do so many diets throughout the years, they would work for a few weeks before I got bored of

them and fell back into my old eating habits, in which I would gain back the weight and more.

This was because I would think about it as a diet and I didn’t work on my relationship with food. When I was going to school, I found it hard to make friends and keep friends. I was a shy child who had a learning disability and was overweight, which made me a very easy target for bullying. I have a memory of a girl in my class telling me that the funfair wouldn’t let me on any of the rides because of the weight limits and I would break them.

The biggest thing I have done when starting this weight loss journey was to think of it as a lifestyle change and not a diet, that was restricting what I eat like the other times I tried to lose weight, because I am able to have chocolate, sweets and carbs. They are not scary things that should be cut out of my life. When I started Slimming World, I learned that there is no bad or good food, but there is food that would make me feel full and satisfied for a long time or for a short time. I know I have to work on my relationship with food. I found that when I started Slimming world, my cravings for high sugar food reduced and my PCOS symptoms started to improve, this was because I was able to listen to my body on what it needs and wants. When I have a craving for something sweet I am able to have it without feeling guilty about it.

One of the biggest milestones I was able to reach was the ability to finally “borrow” my sisters’ or friends’ clothes. When I was growing up I would watch my sister’s swap clothes, jewellery and shoes. They would try to get me involved by asking me if I wanted to borrow a necklace or a bracelet but even they would be too small or tight for me. Now I am at a size that I am able to trade clothes with my sisters and friends.

lLOVING LIFE: Before she joined Slimming World, Stacey’s family was worried about her health. Now, she can play with her nephews for hours

Summer Glow!

Style, Beauty and Lifestlye

Rachel Porter @rachels_day_

Haven Pharmacy Hollys Ennis have a gorgeous range of Clarins tan and summer skincare in stock along with a fantastic Clarins promo!

Don’t let the weather prevent you from a summer glow - the Self-Tanning Milky Lotion (€28) will leave you looking like you have been on a sun holiday! What I love about this product is that is in a 2-in-1 self-tanner for face and body that hydrates skin and leaves it golden and glowing. I find the lotion easy to apply and fast-absorbing, the fresh fig fragrance that smells just like summer! For those makeup free days, the Self Tanning Radiance Plus Golden Glow Booster for

Face (€27) is ideal to mix with your moisturiser. The best part about this product is that it is customisable as you can increase or decrease the amount of drops for glowing skin all day. If you want a deeper looking tan I find using the tan drops overnight does just that.

currently ongoing which you can avail of 3 beauty minis, including the Cryo-flash cream-mask; the Moisture rich body lotion; and Hydra-Essential [HA²] when you purchase two Clarins summer tan or skincare products* including the products mentioned above ! *T&C’s apply

Speaking of overnight - the New Re-Charge Relaxing Sleep Mask (€31) is a fresh, melting night mask for youthful skin that helps to quench, plump and recharge the skin just like after a good night’s sleep. This

mask is perfect to use 1-3 times per week for intensely moisturised skin. In order to get the best out of your tan its important to have your skin prep complete - the Exfoliating Body Scrub (€40) does just that! This exfoliator is refreshing and moisturising whilst rubbing away rough, flaky surface cells and impurities, giving skin a sleek new start which is important to get longevity out of your tan.

Be sure to call into Haven Pharmacy Ennis to check out the Clarins promo

Lifestyle

VIDEO surveillance plays a crucial role in ensuring security and monitoring in both private and public spaces. However, like any technical equipment, video surveillance systems can encounter various issues that lead to their incorrect operation. Let’s explore the main reasons that can affect the functionality and reliability of video surveillance.

1. Equipment Malfunctions

• Camera Failure: Cameras can fail due to mechanical damage, moisture exposure, or temperature fluctuations.

• Recording Device Malfunctions: Issues with hard drives, video recorders, or servers can lead to loss or incorrect recording of data.

• Cable Connections: Damaged or poorly connected cables can cause signal transmission failures

between cameras and the central hub.

2. Power Issues

Stable power supply is essential for the uninterrupted operation of the video surveillance system. Possible problems include:

• Power Outages: Power cuts or unstable voltage can cause the system to shut down.

• Faulty Power Supplies: If power supplies fail or work intermittently, this can lead to temporary or permanent equipment shutdown.

3. Software Errors

Modern video surveillance systems often rely on software for management, recording, and data analysis. Software errors can include:

• Firmware Bugs: Incorrect or outdated firmware can cause sys-

tem malfunctions.

• Software Conflicts: Incompatibility between different software components can lead to unstable operation or complete system failure.

4. Configuration Errors Incorrect system configuration can significantly reduce its effectiveness. Such errors include:

• Improper Camera Placement: Cameras installed in areas with poor visibility or insufficient lighting may not provide the necessary image quality.

• Incorrect Recording Settings: Incorrect recording parameters can lead to missing important events or quickly filling up disk space.

5. External Factors

The video surveillance system

can be affected by various external factors such as:

• Weather Conditions: Rain, snow, fog, and extreme temperatures can affect video quality and camera performance.

• Electromagnetic Interference: Industrial equipment or other sources of electromagnetic waves can create interference, degrading signal quality.

6. Human Factor Errors made by people can also lead to incorrect system operation:

• Unqualified Maintenance: Improper installation or technical maintenance can cause system failures.

• Incorrect Use: Improper handling of equipment, such as excessive or incorrect use of zoom or pan functions, can lead to issues.

You will need

n 140g spaghetti

n 500g fresh clams

in shells

n 2 ripe tomatoes

n olive oil

n 1 fat garlic clove chopped

n 1 small or half a large fresh red chilli finely chopped

n splash white wine (about half a small glass)

n chopped parsley

Method

1) Put the water for the spaghetti on to boil. Rinse the clams in several changes of cold water. Discard any that are open or damaged. Cover the tomatoes with boiling water, leave for one minute, then drain and slip off the

skins, Remove the seeds and chop the flesh.

2) Cook spaghetti according to pack instructions. Meanwhile, heat the oil in a large pan, add the garlic and chilli, then fry gently for a few seconds. Stir in the tomatoes, then add the clams and a splash of wine, salt and pepper and bring to the boil. Cover the pan and cook for 3-4 mins, until the clams are open. Drain the pasta, then tip into the pan with the parsley and toss together. Serve in bowls with bread for mopping up the juices.

ALL the gardens are in bloom, with so much color and so much to look at and admire in our own garden and in all the green spaces throughout the town. One of the many questions I get asked is about trees. They have such an elegant beauty, and whether you have an acre or a town garden, trees can add an air of beauty to any space. This time of year, for me, it’s the Japanese maples, the Acers—they are just stunning. Some can stay small, while others need a bit of space and will overhang, adding a touch of beauty to any area. Trees suitable for small gardens that add a bit of color to your garden include Malus (Crab-apple), which has beautiful spring blossoms and attractive

fruit, providing year-round interest. Crataegus (Hawthorn) is hardy and often covered in spring flowers and red berries in autumn; the ‘Paul’s Scarlet’ variety is quite popular with its pink double flowers. Magnolia stellata is a lovely spring-flowering tree, and there are many varieties to choose from. Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia), also known as the mountain ash tree, has clusters of white flowers, bright red berries, and attractive pinnate leaves, providing interest throughout the year.

When selecting a tree, consider its growth rate, the amount of sunlight your garden receives, and the type of soil you have. Proper placement and regular maintenance will en-

sure that your tree thrives and enhances the beauty of your small garden. If you have a lot of space in your garden, consider add ing some stunning trees that can add unique features to your garden. Oaks (Quercus) are known for their strength and longevity, providing excellent shade and habitat for wildlife. Maples (Acers) come in a variety of colors and have beau tiful foliage. Beeches

have ovate leaves with serrated edges that turn yellow-orange in autumn, showcasing amazing beauty. There are so many trees to choose from, but these are just a few of our favorites that we wanted to share. If you are considering adding a tree, pop in to see the choices.

(Fagus) are majestic trees with smooth, dense foliage providing shade. Hornbeams (Carpinus betulus)

l SECURITY: Grisha Kovalov

MOST of us, at some stage in our lives, have experienced grief. It often has a lasting impact on our mind and body. If not dealt with, this can lead to both emotional and physical symptoms that impact our daily life. Many people come to me with physical symptoms that really affect them and stop them from living their lives the way they want to, and often they have been given the all clear by medical professionals and been told they are perfectly healthy, so why are they having these symptoms?

For example, someone could come to me complaining of constant headaches, and I will always ask them if they have been to their medical provider and checked that there is nothing physically wrong. When they confirm this, I then

usually move on to asking when these headaches started and what was happening in their life during this time. Often, people won’t have joined the dots between experiencing the physical symptom and the level of grief, trauma or stress

they were experiencing when these symptoms started.

There is a brilliant book called “The Secret Language of The Body” in which the author, Inna Segal, says that some of the physical issues that grief can lead to are: sinusi-

tis, pneumonia, frozen shoulders, memory loss, lower back pain, irritable bowel syndrome and many more. She says that although grief is an important part of healing, when suppressed it can lead to any of the above symptoms. Grief must be recognised and expressed in order to be healed. Reiki can really help with this process.

I have found that a lot of people hold grief in their chest or stomach. They will come in with a feeling of heaviness, digestion issues, or asthma.

I have found that during my practice allowing space for people to express how they are feeling, validating their feelings and then giving them Reiki healing, they tend to feel a little lighter and like they have released some of this pain. Often

when people have heavy grief and I place my hands on them they will have a big emotional release. It can feel very intense but also very helpful to have this energy get into the depths of these untouched emotions, and to feel as though you are in a non-judgemental space where you are safe to release them. If you are experiencing grief, try not to suppress it and feel you have to deal with it alone. Talking to someone can be really helpful, but going to see someone who can do body work with you will help you to release some of this heaviness and possibly even ease relentless physical symptoms.

Don’t ignore the way your body is trying to communicate with you. Listen to your body whisper, before you have to hear it roar.

LIVING with diabetes is no easy feat, and for many, it comes with the looming threat of severe complications like diabetic foot ulcers.

These ulcers, if not treated effectively, can lead to devastating outcomes such as amputation. Hyperbaric oxygenation, a treatment that involves breathing high levels of oxygen in a pressurised room, has shown remarkable success in treating diabetic foot ulcers. This is not a futuristic or experimental treatment; it’s a well-established method already used globally. Ireland has been slow to adopt it on a wider scale. This hesitation is a missed opportunity.

At OxyGeneration, we’ve witnessed firsthand the life-changing impact of HBOT. Patients who were on the brink of amputation

due to severe diabetic foot ulcers have experienced remarkable recoveries. Their wounds healed, and their limbs were saved, despite being told that amputation was the only option left. These success stories are not just rare miracles but consistent outcomes that highlight the effectiveness of HBOT. Why, then, are we not seeing widespread adoption of this treatment in Ireland?

One major hurdle is the lack of awareness and availability. While Irish Life Health Insurance covers the costs of hyperbaric oxygen for policyholders with diabetic foot ulcers, this coverage is not universal. Expanding coverage to include HBOT for all diabetic patients with foot ulcers could have a profound impact. Not only would it benefit patients by providing them with a potentially limb-saving

treatment, but it would also reduce the overall healthcare costs associated with long-term wound care and related complications.

The cost of managing a chronic diabetic wound is substantial, encompassing repeated hospital visits, medications, and sometimes long-term disability care. By preventing these wounds from reaching a critical stage, HBOT can significantly cut down these expenses. It’s a proactive approach that addresses the root of the problems. HBOT can promote faster healing, reduce hospital stays, and help patients return to their daily lives more quickly. Incorporating HBOT more widely into diabetes care protocols in Ireland could mark a significant shift in how we approach this chronic condition.

The unfortunate reality is that many peo-

ple find their way to our clinic after enduring years of a lower quality of life, facing invasive procedures, and struggling with inadequate treatments. They often come to us not through referrals from their consultants but after reading articles like this one. I’d love to see this pattern change. Early intervention with hyperbaric oxygenation has been proven to improve outcomes and quality of life for diabetic patients and as such should be offered as a treatment option. Especially as there is an active hyperbaric chamber in Galway University Hospital. If you or someone you know is struggling with diabetic foot ulcers, I urge you to explore the benefits of HBOT. Talk to your healthcare provider, reach out to facilities like OxyGeneration, and advocate for the care you deserve.

Thought for the week: Showing compassion

RONAN SCULLY

COMPASSION to me is to look beyond your own pain and suffering, to see the pain and suffering of others.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, say this beautiful prayer of compassion which has become a favourite of mine called “In Life” by Fr. Brian Cavanaugh.

“In life we are to encourage and build up each other; not to discourage and tear down one another. In life we are to add, not subtract; to

multiply, not divide. In life we are to leave an enduring impression; not a careless dent.

In life we are to smooth out the rough roads along the journey especially for our children and for those who are in need; not create new potholes. In life we are to sing a joyful song; not just drone a groan. In life we are to add our harmonious strains to life’s symphony; not strain the symphony with clatter and clang. In life we are to soar on eagles’ wings; not to peck and cluck with our beaks in the dirt like chickens. In life we are to radiate light into unseen places; not permit unknown fears to dim our radiance. In life we are to leap in faith; not to limp with doubt. In life we are to give freely of our time, our love, our compassion,

our mercy, our resources; not to cling on to them greedily. In life we are to lift up others; not push them down. In life we are to open our hands and hearts to those in need; not to clutch our hands in fists of distrust. I n life we are to lend a helping hand to make loads lighter; not use heavy hands to hold others back. In life we are to be messengers of peace, signs of joy; not portents of gloom-n-doom. In life we are to enjoy, to savor, to welcome, to remember, to reflect; not to overlook, to forget, to ignore, to reject. In life we are to seek conscious awareness; not doze in the doldrums of half-awake. In life we are to dare mighty things; not to fear things gravely. In life we are to show up, stand up, step forward

and speak up; not to cringe in fear, choosing to sit down, or to step back, allowing the voices of silence to speak so loudly. In life we are to exercise proper stewardship of earth’s resources; not pillage the heritage of future generations. In life we are to move forward through forgiveness; not grind to a halt mired in bitterness and resentment.

In life we are to be wacky, weird, and wonderful in our own unique God-given way; not to be staid-nproper lemmings, stuck on life’s treadmill. In life we are to reach, to stretch, and to soar; not to slink in fear, held back by mistrust and doubt. In life we are to realize: “I am a remarkable Somebody!”; not listen to other’s jabs: “You’re a Nobody, an Everybody, an Anybody.”

In life we are to comprehend, “I am worthwhile”; not tremble with feelings of worthlessness. In life we are to create, to laugh, be compassionate and to live life nobly; not to despair, to moan, or to live life less. Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to see the needs, pains and sufferings of those around me, make my heart empathetic to those needs, pains and sufferings and move me to be your hands and feet by responding in service with gratitude for all you have done for me.

Please help me to overcome my reluctance and doubts by trusting that you will equip me to do your work so that my efforts will bless those I seek to serve. Finally, Lord, please inspire others to join me in your work. Amen.”

Boasting what can only be described as one of the most exceptional Championship Golf Course views in the seaside resort of Lahinch, just 150 meters from the gate to Lahinch Golf Club, 150 meters to the Lahinch promenade and equally 150 meters to the main street of this much desirable seaside town.

The property can truly be described as one of Lahinch’s hidden gems with high Liscannor gated stone entrance wall leading to ample off street parking, which leads to a bright and spacious and well-proportioned 4 bedroom detached dormer residence with all front windows boasting uninterrupted views of the Championship Golf Course.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

Not often does a home come to the property market on Station Road and in particular a home such as No. 7, filled with amazing traditional features and character on a spectacular double fronted site facing onto both Station Road and Ard na Greinne with the added bonus of gated off-street parking.

DNG O Sullivan Hurley welcome to the market this 3 bedroom semi-detached property fronting onto Clon Road, in the heart of Ennis town centre within walking distance of all local shops, services and amenities. Ennis bus/rail station is within 300 meters while access to M18 is less than a 5 minute drive.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: (065) 684 0200 PSL 002295

In need of refurbishment, this home offers bright and spacious well-proportioned living accommodation boasting two double bedrooms, main reception, main bathroom and kitchen/dining. The mature tree lined site with side vehicular gated access ensures this home will appeal to so many buyer types due to the enormous potential to extend at both the side and the rear (subject to planning permission). Clare’s

This property, although requiring refurbishment and re-decoration, offers great potential to both investors and owner occupiers to acquire a home in an excellent town centre location. To the front there are block wall boundaries with front garden primarily laid to lawn with mature planting and hedging.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Tel: (065) 684 0200

PSL 002295

CLON ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

7 STATION ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE AMV: €150,000

4 BED DETACHED HOUSE IN

IN OUR previous articles, we spoke about the art of recruitment and onboarding. We discussed the importance and methods of retaining talent.

Our intention is to provide you with awareness and a toolkit for your business. Many businesses may not have engaged with HR & Business consultancy previously, and we want to make you aware that we are there to support and facilitate not only you but also your staff, through what can be a daunting process at times.

In this series, we will talk about the importance of policies for your business, the standard requirements, and the importance of proper and complete documentation for each employee. We will discuss the ‘nice to-do’ and the ‘need to-do’.

Today we are going to talk about compliance – what is required under the acts pertaining to employment law.

This article is for you whether you are an employee, to know what you are entitled to and your rights, and for you – the employer, to know your obligations under employment law.

EMPLOYMENT LAW

It is key that if you are thinking of becoming an employer or indeed an employer that you are aware of the various Acts and Regulations that cover different areas of employment and address both the employee’s and employer’s obligations:-

Job information

o Terms of Employment (Information) Acts 1994–2014: employers must give employees certain information about their employment, such as a contract of employment, a job description, rate of pay and hours of work.

o General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 2018: employee’s control over their personal data; responsibilities of companies who control and process employees’ data.

o Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2018: zero-hours contracts, minimum payments, banded hours, contracts and day-5 statements.

Young people at work

o The Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act 1996: the employment and working conditions of children and young people.

Terms and conditions of employment

o The National Minimum Wage Act 2000: the national minimum wage.

o The Payment of Wages Act 1991: employees’ the right to a pay slip.

o The Payment of Wages (Amendment) (Tips and Gratui-

ties) Act 2022: sharing tips, gratuities and service charges amongst employees.

o The Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973–2005: the amount of notice employees are entitled to before the termination of employment.

o The Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2015: a framework for workers looking to improve their terms and conditions of employment where collective bargaining is not recognised by their employer; Registered Employment Agreements (REAs) and Sectoral Employment Orders (SEOs).

Act 1994: Maternity leave, the right to return to work after maternity leave, as well as health and safety during and immediately after pregnancy.

o The Paternity Leave and Benefit Act 2016: Paternity leave

o The Adoptive Leave Act 2005 amending the Adoptive Leave Act 1995: Adoptive leave

o The Family Leave and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2021: Adoptive leave

o The Parental Leave Acts 1998 -2019: Parental leave

o The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023 amending the Parental Leave

time employees

o Protection of Employees (Fixed Term Work) Act 2003: Fixed term employees

o Protection of Employment (Temporary Agency Work) Act 2012: Agency workers

o Code of Practice for Determining Employment or Self-employment Status of Individuals 2021: Self-employment

Whistleblowing

o Protected Disclosures Act 2014 and Protected Disclosures (Amendment) Act 2022: protection of whistleblowers in the workplace

Working hours, annual leave and holiday leave

o The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997: a number of employment conditions, including maximum working hours, night work, annual leave and public holiday leave.

o The Organisation of Working Time (Records) (Prescribed Form and Exemptions) Regulations 2001: obligation to keep records of:

l The number of hours employees work on a daily and weekly basis

l The amount of leave granted to employees in each week as annual leave or as public holidays

l Details of the payments in respect of this leave

l Employees’ starting and finishing times.

Statutory leave

o The Maternity Protection (Amendment) Act 2004: paid time off work for ante-natal classes, additional maternity leave, and breastfeeding.

o The Maternity Protection

Act: paid leave for carers

o The Family Leave and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2021 amending the Parent’s Leave and Benefit Act 2019: Parent’s leave

o The Carer’s Leave Act 2001: Carer’s leave

o The Sick Leave Act 2022: Paid sick leave

o The Work Life Balance and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2023: Domestic violence leave

Safety at work

o Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005: Health & Safety at work; includes Bullying, Harassment, and Sexual harassment

Equality in the workplace

o The Employment Equality Acts 1998–2015 and The Equality (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2015: discrimination based on 9 grounds

Part-time, fixed-term, agency, and self-employed workers

o Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001: Part-

Business take-overs

o European Communities (Protection of Employees on Transfer of Undertakings) Regulations 2003: transfer of an undertaking, business or part of a business from one employer to another employer

Redundancy and dismissals

o Redundancy Payments Acts 1967–2014: entitlement to a redundancy payment

o Protection of Employment (Exceptional Collective Redundancies and Related Matters) Act 2007: redundancy panel for collective redundances; upper age limit

Dismissal

o Unfair Dismissals Acts 1977–2015: unfair termination of contract; constructive dismissal

Work permits

o Employment Permits Acts 2003–2014: employment permits.

At ERA Ltd., we can work with you to ensure full compliance with

legislation.

CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT

As mentioned above, there are two acts seeing up requirements for contracts:

Terms of Employment (Information) Acts 1994–2014 and Employment (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2018.

Having a contract in place for all employees is not a choice, but a must.

CORE TERMS

The legislation states that if you don’t have the contract in place within the first week, you must issue a day-5 statement. A day-5 statement is a statement of core terms of employment agreed with your employee, signed and dated by both parties. A day-5 statement must include the following: -

• The full names of the employer and employee

• The address of the employer

• The place of work, or where there is no fixed or main place of work, a statement stating that there are various places or you are free to set your own place of work or to work at various places

• The date the employment started

• The job title, grade or nature of the work (such as a brief job description)

• The expected duration of the contract (if the contract is temporary or fixed-term)

• The rate or method of calculating your pay, and the ‘pay reference period’ (for example, whether you are paid weekly, fortnightly or monthly) – be mindful of minimum wage and a Sunday Premium

• What the employer reasonably expects the normal length of your working day and week to be (for example, 8 hours a day, 5 days a week)

• The duration and conditions relating to the probation period (if there is one)

• Any terms or conditions relating to hours of work, including overtime

You then have to issue a full contract (also called an employment contract, statement of terms or statement of terms and conditions of employment) within 1 month of the start of employment.

A letter of offer is one way of issuing a day-5 statement – we can easily include the required details in it. Another solution is to simply issue a full contract within the first week. This ensures the task is completed early and is more productive.

Working with HR professionals like ourselves provides peace of mind and helps prevent issues. For a free audit or a free consultation do not hesitate to contact us. Elaine@eraltd.ie/Chelsey@eraltd.ie

AS A leadership development consultant, I’ve had the privilege of working with many talented professionals on their path to success.

This week, I was honoured to be named ‘Businesswoman of the Year’ in the ‘Solo Businesswoman’ category at the Limerick Branch regional finals of the Network Ireland annual awards. While I’m thrilled to represent Limerick at the national event in Dublin in September, I believe true success is not about reaching the final destination, but rather the journey itself. Creating business strategy means aiming high and thinking big, but we must not forget to celebrate the wins and milestones along the way.

MASLOW’S HIERARCHY OF NEEDS

Celebrating the wins along the journey is crucial for fostering motivation, engagement, and longterm success. Just as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs emphasizes the importance of psychological and esteem needs, celebrating achievements serves as a fundamental component in fulfilling these needs. When individuals are recognized for their efforts and accomplishments, it not only boosts their self-esteem but also

FMCI wins Digital Town nod

reinforces their sense of belonging and purpose within the team or organization.

In the context of employee engagement and retention, these “rewards” of recognition and appreciation act as hygiene factors, as described by Herzberg’s TwoFactor Theory. While compensation and remuneration fall into the category of hygiene factors that are necessary to prevent dissatisfaction, it is the intrinsic rewards of feeling valued and appreciated that truly drive employee engagement and retention.

CELEBRATING SUCCESS

When managing teams, it’s crucial to tap into what truly drives each individual. By aligning team goals with individual motivations, leaders can create a culture of engagement, innovation and success. Remember however, based on Maslow’s theory, if the pay isn’t right then people will feel dissatisfied and this needs to be addressed as is reasonable and in line with industry standards. Here are three essential areas that can be harnessed to get the best out of people and build a high performing team.

1. THE POWER OF PURPOSE

When people feel that their work

has meaning and makes a positive impact, they are far more likely to go the extra mile.

As a leader, it’s your job to paint a compelling vision of what success looks like and how each team member’s contributions fit into the bigger picture.

2. THE IMPORTANCE OF AUTONOMY

When people feel a sense of control over their work and the freedom to make decisions, they are more engaged and productive. As a leader, it’s important to strike the right balance between providing guidance and allowing team members to experiment and learn. Delegation is a hot topic in every group I work with. Moving from subject matter expert to ‘overseer’/leader, is often a very difficult transition to make.

3. THE JOURNEY OF MASTERY

When people feel that they are continuously learning, growing and improving, they are more likely to persist in the face of challenges. As a leader, it’s important to provide opportunities for team members to stretch beyond their current capabilities and to celebrate progress along the way.

Shannon based Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) won the Digital Business category at the Digital Town Awards in Athlone last week.

“FMCI was recognized for its innovative digital strategies that promote business growth and enhance the local economy. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team in driving digital transformation and mobility solutions.

“FMCI is excited to continue its pioneering advancements in digital technology and making a positive impact in the community,” said an FMCI spokesperson. Pictured are FCMI COO Dr Wassim Derguech and R&D Funding Manager Diarmuid Ó Conchubhair

l WINNER: Denise O’Brien with her daughter Eva and The Clare Echo’s Denise Quinn

Five local businesswomen go forward to Network Ireland national awards

FIVE local businesswomen claimed regional accolades in the Network Ireland Limerick Businesswoman of the Year Awards at a special summer soirée at The Clayton Hotel this week, writes Elaine Tubridy. Annmarie Nagle won the Emerging Businesswoman Award. Denise O Brien won the Solo Businesswoman Award. Orla Canney, of

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

• Beach Operative –Ballycuggeran, Killaloe

Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Only applications completed online will be accepted Closing date: 12 Noon Friday 7th June 2024. Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

HILT, won the Employee Shining Star Award. The Creative Professional award went to artist Rachel Leahy. Other categories included Karen Ronan, Shannon Region Sports and Conference Bureau, who won Networker of The Year, and Established Businesswomen of the Year went to Sinead English, HILT. The winners of each award category will now go on to the national finals for Network Ireland which will be announced at a black-tie gala ceremony in Lyrath Estate, Kilkenny.

Last year 2023, one Limerick businesswoman Sinead O Brien, Sinead’s Curvy Style and Vacious went on to win an award at the national awards. The 43 finalists, representing a broad range of businesses, were joined by their family, friends, and fellow members at the glamorous awards ceremony which kicked-off with a Prosecco reception.

Also in attendance were sponsors Dymphna O’Brien, AIB and Aideen Corry, LEO Limerick, along with Amy Molloy , Deputy National President of Network Ireland. Karl Daly, Humnali, chaired the Judging panel.

Speaking at the Awards ceremony, Fiona Doyle, President of Network Ireland Limerick said: “Network Ireland Limerick is all about encouraging each other to be the best we can be. The strength and success of our awards nominees is based on our commitment to working together to develop our businesses. Our awards provide a

fantastic opportunity to recognise our member’s achievements, ambition, and professionalism. We had 43 inspiring finalists this year, which is fantastic, they are all excellent businesswomen in their own right. I want to congratulate them all and wish our 5 regional award winners the best of luck at the nationals.

“We are here tonight because of the arduous work of our deputy president Eve Staf-

ford and the committee, but also because of our local sponsors from Johnson and Johnson, Ernst and Young, DGD Shredding, The Cresent shopping Centre, Ingenium. I would like to especially thank the support of our national and major sponsors, LEO Limerick and AIB, our three independent judges and The Clayton Hotel who made this fantastic evening possible,” she continued.

Ready for World Bicycle Day in Shannon

Launching Shannon's participation in World Bicycle Day (on June 5) were Helen Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamber; Mike Guinee, Chairman and Chief Executive, Ei Electronics: Anne Cawley, Fine Grain Property; Anne Griffin, A/Senior Executive Officer, Shannon Municipal District; and Sean McGuire, General Manager, Westpark Innovation Campus

Photo by Eamon Ward

Clare qualify for third Munster final on the trot with victory over Tipp

MUNSTER HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 5

Clare 1-24

Tipperary 0-24

Venue: FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles

Compiled by Eoin Brennan & Séamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 14 (4/8)

Wides: 11 (8/3)

Scores from play: 1-13

Spread of scorers: 10

Top scorer: Aidan McCarthy (0-8, 6f's)

Bookings: Conor Leen (58), Adam Hogan (60)

Own puckouts won: 26 out of 32 (81%)

TIPPERARY

Frees for: 14 (5/9)

Wides: 8 (5/3)

Scores from play: 0-13

Spread of scorers: 9

Top scorer: Jake Morris (0-11, 6f's)

Bookings: Craig Morgan (4), Jake Morris (24), Johnny Ryan (26), (Willie Connors (33)

Own puckouts won: 24 out of 36 (67%)

REFEREE: Johnny Murphy (Limerick)

“ MANAGER COMMENT

“I'm happy with the result and happy to be back in the Munster final”.

“We came down to do a job and it’s a tough job to do and we got it done."

“We try to prepare as well as possible but obviously in the back of your mind you say you may not even need a result here. Look we are really happy with how the lads prepared and how they always prepare. We are happy to be back in a Munster final”.

“We didn’t play all that well in the first quarter, we put in a better second quarter, we were very good in the third quarter and then in the last quarter fell asleep a little bit again. There are areas we have to work on but coming down to Thurles and getting a win, it’s a good positive sign”.

“There were some very good performances from those who were introduced. Conor Leen had a very good game today. Look we are delighted with the squad, delighted with

the attitude of the players and with their workrate and we are looking forward to the final”.

In regards, Tony Kelly; “Tony is in good shape, good to start. The big issue with Tony is just match fitness now".

“He’s been out for a long time and every minute that he gets is an improvement for him. This time of the year, it’s hard to get game time because the matches are coming so thick and fast so it’s great to get game time into him”.

“We try to prepare as best we can for each game regardless of the opposition, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t. Look we are just delighted with the attitude of the players, delighted also with the support and we are getting great support and we really appreciate that”.

Clare still standing & seventy minutes from Munster success in 'massive competition'

by Séamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

MUNSTER championship glory is seventy minutes away for Clare’s senior hurlers who have reached the final of the “massive competition” after overcoming Tipperary by three points on Sunday.

Clare selector Tommy Corbett wasn’t surprised with the strong challenge offered by Tipperary on Sunday.

Ennis native Corbett who managed Clooney-Quin at a number of levels including senior in recent years said after Sunday’s victory, “we expected Tipp to come with a fight, they are not as bad as some made them out to be, we knew they would be fired up.

“Their wins in the Munster minor and under 20 finals would have lifted their spirits, their results didn’t reflect their ability. Liam Cahill is a good manager and we didn’t expect anything less that what the

gave today”,” he added. Corbett is in his first season as a selector on Brian Lohan’s management. The former Éire Óg player is looking forward to the Munster final. “Clare have only won this title four or five times. It’s a massive competition. There are three cups on offer at this level every year. We have the league title and we are now in a position to compete for the Munster

championship title. We will see what happens after that”.

Referring to the fact that they were able to introduce four players to their line up during the course of Sunday’s game, he said “it’s very important for lads to get game time and it’s important that they take the opportunity when it arises”

Asked about the fitness of Ryan Taylor who is recovering

PLAYER WATCH

CONOR LEEN

Minutes played: All

Possessions: 7 (5/2)

Passess: 6 (3/3)

Long Pass: 4

Short Pass: 2

Shots: None

Scores: 0-0

Tackles: 3

Turnovers For: 2 (2/0)

Turnovers Against:

None

Frees For: 1

Bans for Davy Fitz & Tommy Corbett

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

WATERFORD BOSS DAVY FITZGERALD and Clare selector Tommy Corbett have been handed four-week suspensions.

Following the meeting of Clare and Waterford in the Munster SHC fourth round in Cusack Park a fortnight ago, Sixmilebridge’s Fitzgerald approached the referee Liam Gordon where he seemed irate over a 65 which was converted by Mark Rodgers and where it was taken from.

His conduct towards the referee has resulted in the handing down of a four week ban. The proposed penalty comes under Rule 7.2 (c), category 11a which covers abusive language towards a match official or disruptive conduct. In September 2022, the All-Ireland winning player and manager spoke on The Late Late Show and said a lifetime ban should be issued to anyone who physically abuses a referee.

from a cruciate knee injury, the Clare selector said “we are keeping an eye on his progress and we will take medical advice as to when he will be ready”.

Looking ahead to the Munster final meeting with Limerick on June 9 he said, “we will look at the Limerick v Waterford game, we were concentrating on our own game today. They are a very good team going for six in a row in Munster, I am looking forward to the final”.

Asked if the fixture will put extra pressure on Clare given the fact that they have been pipped by their neighbours in the last two finals he said “it’s another game, it’s one we want to win and we will approach it like we have approached every other game. We are not looking any further than that”.

“Our support has been excellent. The vast majority in Thurles were our supporters, we appreciate that support and we are looking forward to the final,” the financial advisor concluded.

A similar suspension has also been recommended for Tommy Corbett who pushed Fitzgerald after he had spoken with the Galway official.

Fitzgerald has said he was not questioning the legitimacy of the 65 but instead arguing over the amount of steps taken by Rodgers when scoring Clare’s second goal.

Members of the Central Competitions Control Committee concluded that suspensions were merited for both Fitzgerald and Corbett. The ban was not in place for Clare’s win over Tipperary but unless appealed successfully, it would mean Corbett cannot be on the sideline for the Munster final while in the case of Davy any suspension would be enforced in 2025 seeing as the Déise are eliminated from the championship.

l Davy Fitzgerald.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Brian Lohan, Clare manager

l Shane O'Donnell powers away from Craig Morgan & Noel McGrath.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l John Conlon in action against Andrew Ormond.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Sligo’s superior physicality too much for the Banner minor footballers

ELECTRIC IRELAND ALL-IRELAND MFC TIER 2

PRELIMINARY QUATER-FINAL

Clare 1-7 Sligo 2-10

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Séamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Scores from play: 1-4

Spread of scorers: 4

Top scorer: Conor Burke (1-4, 3f's)

WATERFORD

Scores from play: 2-7

Spread of scorers: 6

Top scorer: Niall Duffy (0-5, 3f's)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Dermot Coughlan, Clare manager

"We conceded a few soft scores. I think the inclement weather conditions did play a part but we were sloppy early on. They punished us for it, once more we gave ourselves a mountain to climb and once more, we came back into it well, but it was too little too late”.

“It’s hard to come back from early goals, particularly so at underage level and given the conditions that were there, three points is big score”.

“We said at half time we can play an awful lot better. We were going to create goal chances but we didn’t take them. We created three today and got one”.

“This is about the development of the players, they have had six games and I am delighted for them, it’s been a tremendous year for us. We played top class oppositions; we did well against Cork for 45 minutes, and today for 30 to 35 minutes, I am very proud of the lads”.

"The team has fought hard all year and probably won the second half in all games. Today we said at half time that they needed to bring the fight to the table and we think they did but we needed those goal chances to go in. There is great talent in this group and a lot of those players will go to play at under 20 and hopefully a fair share will go to senior”.

Big boost for Clare to get upperhand over Down in opening round of senior camogie championship

1-5 Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis Compiled by Séamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

scorer: Áine O'Loughlin (1-2, 2f's)

REFEREE: Andy Larkin (Cork)

John Carmody, Clare manager

“It was a comprehensive enough win in difficult conditions with the wind and the rain. We conceded a soft goal and probably left a good bit behind us, but I am very pleased overall”. “We got a lot of trouble from this team in Down last year, but we were on top from the word go today”, the team boss said shortly after the final whistle”.

“After we conceded a soft goal which put us four down. We hit 1-4 without reply which showed a bit of character. We dominated the second half and overall, we are happy particularly as we had eight or nine debuts out there. We are very happy with the run of the panel.”

“We came here looking for a win. We didn’t know what we were facing and as I said we were very happy to come out with a result. We had a comprehensive win for a young team which is a confidence boost as we look forward to Dublin next week.”

“We will recover now and analyse this and hopefully we will

l

Tyrone expecting robust challenge from Clare

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’s senior footballers are back in action this weekend when they make the long trip to Healy Park in Omagh to face Tyrone.

It’s a 1:30pm start for Sunday’s side with Mark Fitzgerald’s side needing a win to stay in the All-Ireland SFC following their disappointing two point opening round loss to Cork a fortnight ago. They face a Tyrone side fresh from a 0-21 0-14 defeat to Ulster champions, Donegal. Clare boss, Mark Fitzgerald believes his side are capable of causing an upset. He told The Clare Echo, “We wouldn’t go to Omagh if we didn’t think we had a chance, we wouldn’t be in this competition if

we didn’t think we had a chance”.

Tyrone manager, Brian Dooher is anxious that his side bounce back. “While it’s good to be going back into action this Sunday, it’s very important that we lift our game and make life difficult for Clare,” he said.

Dooher added, “They obviously ran a decent Cork side close, and they will not be fazed by having to face us at this point in time. For our part, we have to take the learning from that game against Donegal and put it to good effect against Clare. We came up against the hard running of Donegal, and we will have to expect more of the same against Clare. They are a robust side who can cause opponents problems, and we will have to keep our guard up.”

l Clare's Caleb Walsh.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Niamh Mulqueen soloes out of defence for the Banner.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Ikem Ugwueru in action against Cork in the first round of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship Group Stage

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

McGann sets the way for Avenue United's journey to the top

STEVEN MCGANN capped off his first season back in the Clare District Soccer League by getting the winning penalty to help Avenue Utd claim a league and cup double.

Signing McGann at the outset of the season was an indicator that Avenue Utd were bidding to go to new heights, they reached the Munster Junior Cup semi-final before losing out to eventual winners St Michael’s while within the county they went the entire campaign unbeaten to win the double for the second time in three seasons.

On Saturday, they overcame rivals Newmarket Celtic in a penalty shootout with Steven slotting home the decisive penalty to ensure Ronan Kerin would be handed the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup from CDSL Chairman Jason Ryan.

Finishing out the season with both league and cup medals caps off a welcome return back to Avenue. “It was a good season back, the start of the season didn’t work out too well for me, I had an injury that coming back and every time I played it would come back again but after Christmas I got it sorted, it was good to get back in,” he said.

During his time with Pike Rovers, he won two Munster Junior Cups, two League titles, two Lawson Cups and a Tuohy Cup with the Limerick outfit. For a decade, he held a record as the youngest player to ever score in the League of Ireland, he was 15 years and 359 days old when he scored against Athlone Town on the final day of the 2010 season, a record that Kevin Zefi took off him when he scored for Shamrock Rovers at the age of 15 years 206 days in 2020.

Their encounter with Newmarket Celtic was another tough battle, he noted. “Ever since I came it has always been the same when I’ve played Newmarket, we’re both really good sides but the football goes out the window in sudden parts and it becomes a bit of a battle, when it turns into a battle then any of the teams can win it so it was nice to get a win again”.

McGann told The Clare Echo, “When I saw the weather this morning I knew it would be a battle and the pitch would cut up after ten minutes. The first and second ball are massive in these games because if you win the

first and second ball you win the right to play and then you show how you’re going to play”. There was no sense of pressure for the Ennis man when it came to the decisive spot kick. “It’s always nice to win on penalties, it’s nice to get them and get one in the last minute of a penalty shootout to win”.

Getting to take the final penalty was his call. “I had a bit of an argument with Russ, he wanted to put me first but I said no I’ll go fifth, I’ve nine out of nine on penalties so far this year, it’s not too bad”.

Having a gentle word to make various suggestions to Avenue’s manager David Russell

is not something Steven will shy back from, as evident from his gentle coaxing in the first half that they needed to have a more offensive approach if they wanted to get a goal. “I’d have words with anyone to be fair, I give my opinion, if he likes it he likes it and if he doesn’t.. I’d always listen to him at the end of it but I thought in the first half we were sitting back a bit much but the gap from the striker where I was playing up top in the first half to midfield was massive and I thought they just overloaded the middle, they were winning second balls and that is how they were getting on top. For the second half, we just talked it out and we pushed up from the first ten to twenty yards extra and I thought we pressed them a lot harder”.

Reflecting back on his return to the Clare league, Steven said, “I knew what it was going to be like, it’s always going to be the same, I used to come and watch games when I was inside in Limerick, it was always Newmarket and Avenue competing for honours, now you have Bridge who are coming again and making it that bit more competitive as we saw in the semi-final, they nearly turned us over but it is still the same in any big game you play, watching Munster Junior and FAI Junior finals, you never see teams that will go out and play unbelievable football, it is always a battle and it’s the same winning trophies”.

Having set up the Steven McGann Coaching Academy last summer, the upcoming off-season will see him kept very occupied on this front. “I’ve a busy off-season, if we get a bit of weather it will help me keep going during the summer, I’m looking forward to a break to be honest, I only played from after Christmas but I’m getting a bit older and it does take a toll on the body so I could do with a bit of a break”.

Woodrow repays the faith with strong end to aid Avenue's double success in 2024

AVENUE UTD Luke

Woodrow finished the season on a high with a man of the match accolade to accompany his CDSL Premier Division and Clare Cup medals.

Woodrow kept a clean sheet during normal and extra time as Avenue Utd overcame Newmarket Celtic on penalties in Saturday’s Ennis Carpets Clare Cup final. Reflecting on the victory, Luke said, “It’s always nice to win the Cup and especially against Newmarket, bitter rivals going at it head to head. Winning the man of the match is also a bonus on top, I just played my normal game and I just got a nice little trophy here with me”.

Having stepped up in the semi-final win over Bridge Utd, Woodrow was very pleased to put together successive strong performanc-

es between the posts in the Clare Cup. “That game was a tough test, we were under the kosh a bit and again I just did my job, we luckily

ran out winners but yeah it’s fine margins in these type of games,” he recalled. When it comes to penalties, it really is a lottery, the

goalkeeper admitted. “Penalties are fifty fifty on who is going to win, you can’t go into a penalty shootout knowing you are going to win because anything is going to happen. Shane Cusack saved one, I didn’t save any and we won the game, it can just go any way and thankfully we pulled through”.

With seventy eight minutes on the clock, Woodrow got a vital flick to the ball to prevent Newmarket Celtic’s Darragh Leahy from rounding him. “That was another one on one, similar to the one against the Bridge where they were pulled for offside, this time I got the ball one hundred percent there was no doubt about that, there might have been a bit of afters and he left something on my head but that happens and that is football. Any second later or sooner it could have been a penalty or he could have rounded me, I’m just glad that we pulled through,” he recalled. Dust may be settling on

the season that was but Luke is anxious that Avenue Utd push on further in provincial and national competitions. “This season we should have gone further in Munster and the FAI, we will definitely look to go further in the FAI, we’re much better than the last thirty two. When it comes to Munster, we got beaten by a good St Michael’s side who ended up winning it but there was times in that game where we could have got a goal or two, it is fine margins, we’ll take a break for a month or so and come back into pre-season, set targets and kick on from there. Winning silverware is great no matter what, we have a big group of players, anybody can start, anybody can play or be subbed off, it is great to have this success over these years and hopefully we will keep it up for years to come”.

by Páraic McMahon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

l Steven McGann in action against Jack Kelly.

Photo by Joe Buckley

l Luke Woodrow & Eoin Slattery. Photo by Joe Buckley

Galway Bay Golf Club - A Jewel on Ireland’s West Coast

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

Another stunning golf course nestled along the stunning west coast of Ireland just beyond the boarder of Clare along the Wild Atlantic Way is Galway Bay Golf Club, that is a testament to the rich tradition and passion for golf in this picturesque region. Opened in 1993, this championship course has quickly established itself as one of the premier golfing destinations in Ireland, attracting both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals from around the world. When designing the course, former Ryder Cup and World Cup golfer Christy O’Connor Jnr. superbly blended the stunning backdrop of Galway Bay and the rugged curves of the Atlantic coastline with mature trees, water hazards, hidden bunkers and stunning undulating putting surfaces.

The creation of Galway Bay Golf Club was driven by the vision of a group of local enthusiasts who recognized the potential of the Galway coastline for a world-class golf course. They enlisted the expertise of former Ryder Cup player and renowned course architect Christy O'Connor Jr. to bring their dream to life. O'Connor, known for his deep understanding of the game and ability to blend natural landscapes with challenging designs, crafted a course that seamlessly integrates with the rugged beauty of the surrounding landscape. I've no doubt this would have been one of Christy's most enjoyable and proudest designs he's ever created, in

my opinion it was his best creation and he had many.

Galway Bay Golf Club boasts an 18-hole, par 72 beast of a championship course that stretches over 7,308 yards. Each hole is meticulously designed to offer a unique challenge while showcasing the natural beauty of the Galway Bay area. The coastal winds add an extra layer of complexity, requiring golfers to carefully consider their shots and adapt to the ever changing conditions during your round.

There are so many strong memorable golf holes at Galway Bay which is rare for a course to have so many great holes. On the frontnine the Par 5 6th and Par 3 7th in particular are some of the best holes of any golf course in Ireland. Both greens are protected by water that wraps around the greenside of both these holes making the approach shots needing your full attention.

On the backnine the Par 4 Index one 12th hole is another incredible strong golf hole and is followed immediately by yet another standout hole in the par-3 13th, known as "O'Connor's Delight." This hole, with its elevated tee and panoramic views of the bay, demands precision and skill, making it a favorite among many. The closing stretch of holes, often described as one of the most challenging finishes in Irish golf, culminates in a dramatic 18th, where the clubhouse provides a picturesque and welcoming conclusion to the round.

Beyond the course, Galway Bay Golf Club offers a range of amenities designed to enhance the overall golfing

experience. The newly redeveloped modern clubhouse provides a warm and inviting atmosphere with incredible stunning views of the course with the rugged Atlantic Ocean as its backdrop. It also features a well-stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and dining facilities where golfers can dine like a Lord while enjoying the stunning views before and after their round. The club's restaurant, known for its excellent cuisine, is a favorite spot for both golfers and visitors to savor local delicacies while trying to not get distracted by the stunning views.

Some of the team I know at Galway Bay I would regard of the highest of Caliber from the head PGA Golf Professional Dara Ford, Shop Manager Peter Murphy, Course Superintendent Damien Coleman and the newly hired Director Of Golf David Byrne from Portumna and Adare GC. It's no wonder the club is thriving and growing from strength to strength in the past few years and its only going to get better.

Whether you're a seasoned golfer seeking a new challenge or a visitor looking to experience the best of Irish golf, Galway Bay Golf Club offers an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful and captivating landscapes in the country of Ireland. Don't waste anytime in booking a game at Galway Bay GC this year it is always an unforgettable day out. In fact after writing this article it has me itching to return there in the coming weeks to revisit one of the country's finest links in the isle of Ireland.

Enright claims Vice captain’s prize at Kilrush

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

He had one to spare over Sean Lyons (16) with 38 points with John Robinson (26) in third spot with 38 followed by Martin McNamara (22) with 37 points, a point more than fifth placed Billy Clarke (18) with 36 points.

Jack Foley (1) won the gross with 34 points while the category winners were Richard Williams (12 with 36 points, Patrick Coleman (14) with 35 points and EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB

East Clare’s men's May medal competition was won by Pat (P.J) Madden (20) with 60 and he had five to spare over Dylan Browne (30) with John Corcoran (15) in third spot, a further two back. Eoin McGuinness won the gross with 71.

Last week’s men’s open singles were won by Kieran Larkin (22) with 38 points from Oscar Kolshus (37) who had 36 points.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB

The Hotel Woodstock sponsored April medal at Woodstock was won by Bryan Clune (18) with 66 while Kieran Cunnane (3) won the gross with 75.

Category 1 was won by Jack Joyce (5) with 73 from Sean Crowe (3) with 76. Paul Coote (12) won category 2 with 67 from Kevin Toner (13) with 72 while Dickie Pyne (17) won category 3 with 69.

In the Strokeplay competition for those with handicaps of over 19, Joe Kelly (22) was the winner with 61 from Vincent O’Grady (25) with 67.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB

The men’s competition at Dromoland at the weekend was 18-hole stroke which was won by Edward Kane (11) with 66. He had one to spare overs Billy O’Mahoney with Brian Arthur (7) in third place with 69. Sean Burns (scratch) won the gross with 71 while the category for handicaps of 22 and over was won by Tony Cosgrove (23) with 71.

GORT GOLF CLUB

Last Friday’s 18-hole open singles at Gort were won by Len Baker (26) with 42 points while the gross winner was Enda Cradock (3) with 31 points.

The weekend competition was for the Val Hoarty jug when the winner was Garry Keane (21) with 66.

Mirabel digs deep to gain success

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

Saturday night’s Galway card was a Gala Fundraising Night organised by the Renmore AFC Soccer Club and a huge crowd was present for a great nights racing with all races sponsored.

As the traps rose for the A9 graded contest Tullygarvan Duke trapped well long the inner and racing towards the opening bend he’d led from Mirabel on his outer with Killanin Bono also prominent on the wide outside. On straightening for home Mirabel (Droopys Sydney & Cactus Sapphire) held a narrow advantage and she had to dig deep to hold the renewed effort of Tullygarvan Duke by a head in 18.48.

Following a very level break for this S5 graded contest Five Alley Din was first to break rank along the inner but he drifted

wide on the run up and the allowed the Michael Nelson of Feakle owned Mounvour Lady to slip through to lead along the inner from Starson Pippa rounding the opening bend. Approaching the home bend the front pair had kicked clear and although Starson Pippa closed all the way to the line Mounvour Lady (Ballymac Best & Ridgedale Martha) was always hold the challenge to prevail by a neck in 18.28.

The two concluding A3 contest were the twin features on Friday night’s card at Galway Greyhound Stadium.

There was a most intriguing look to the S4 graded sixth contest with three litter brothers Burnpark Jaytee, Ballyea Jet and Seekers Jet in traps two, three and four. Between the bends the Maria Browne of Cree owned Burnpark Jaytee (Jaytee Jet-Seekers Vision) kicked two lengths clear but he was all out close home as Ballyea Jet closed to within a neck at the line in 18.04.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

MYREISK QUIN, CO CLARE

I, Rory Slattery, intend to apply for permission to Alter, Extend & Refurbish existing 2 storey ‘courtyard dwelling house’ (the work will include reconstruction & re-building of adjacent courtyard dwelling ruin as part of the development) and all associated site works and services at the Courtyard, Myreisk Quin, Co Clare, The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

SHANNON AIRPORT, RINEANNA SOUTH, SHANNON, CO CLARE

The Shannon Airport Group intend to apply for planning permission for a 1.2kW PV solar farm development at Shannon Airport, Rineanna South, Shannon, Co Clare.

The proposed works consist of a 1.2kW PV solar farm located within the airport, with an area of approximately 2.25 hectares, comprising of linear arrays of solar photovoltaic panels on ground mounted frames (with associated cabling and ducting), a modular substation, inverters, new internal site access road and all associated ancillary development works.

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the planning application. The planning appli-

cation and the Natura Impact Statement (NIS) may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE

COUNTY COUNCIL

SHANNON AIRPORT, RINEANNA SOUTH, SHANNON, CO CLARE

The Shannon Airport Authority DAC intend to apply for planning permission for an extension of an existing car park at Shannon Airport, Rineanna South, Shannon, Co Clare.

The proposed development will consist of the extension of an existing car park providing an additional 1051 parking spaces including a dedicated surface water drainage network, the re-alignment of airside / landside boundary security fence, the re-alignment of the internal perimeter road located airside, the relocation of the access to the wastewater treatment plant for maintenance purposes, the demolition of 10 industrial units and all ancillary associated site works.

We note the protected structure NIAH reference 20406201 is located nearby to the proposed works and a Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the Planning Application.

The planning application and the Natura Impact Statement (NIS) may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the appli-

cation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

DERRYFADDA, CLONLARA, CO

CLARE

I, John Hickey, am applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Derryfadda, Clonlara, Co Clare

Permission for construction of detached agricultural equipment storage building, together with all associated ancillary and incidental works

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

SHANNON AIRPORT, RINEANNA SOUTH, SHANNON, CO

CLARE

The Shannon Airport Authority DAC intend to apply for planning permission for upgrades to the Wayfinding at Shannon Airport, Rineanna South, Shannon, Co Clare.

The development will consist of the provision of 5 No. new Gantry signs, the provision of 5 No. new Directional Totem signs, new Road directional signage and refurbishment works to existing Gantries, directional signs, long-term canopy, the removal of old signage and all associated ancillary works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making

a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

NOOAN, RUAN, CO

CLARE V95 NT3F

Take notice that Kevin & Nelsa Davis intend to apply for Retention Permission to retain the en-suite shower room to the rear of the existing dwelling house and the detached garage including all ancillary services and works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority, in writing, on payment of a fee of €20.00 within five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Planning Application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

KILRUSH HOUSE

/ COALHOUSE, FRANCES ST, KILRUSH, CO CLARE

Take notice that P & J Neylon are applying for retention permission for as-built partially constructed extension and planning permission for the subdivision of the existing site to form a separate independent dwelling, to complete the refurbishment & extension, construction of boundary walls including forming a new street level entrance along with all associated works. Kilrush House is a protected structure (RPS No 859)

The planning applica-

tion may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, CRATLOEKEEL, CRATLOE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that M. Phelan intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter and extend her existing dwelling house along with ancillary site works at the above address.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of

the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, CLOONEYOGAN SOUTH, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE, V95 E284

Take notice that B. O’Gorman intends to apply to the Planning Authority permission to retain existing steel columns and concrete slab and for permission to construct a new office/ storeroom along with associated site works at the above address.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BOHERBOLLOG, COROFIN, CO. CLARE

Take notice that J. Gilchrist intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter and extend her existing dwelling house along with ancillary site works at the above address.

That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

PRAYER

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you

This special favour.

(Mention Favour)

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

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes

It will become your favour Not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication.

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you

This special favour.

(Mention Favour)

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

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication.

Recent Deaths

Madidimalo, Baby Kyaha Ennis

Griffin, Pat (K.P) Kilrush

Maxwell, Patrick Newmarket-on-Fergus

Margey, Hugh Corofin

MOLONEY (née Jordan), Kathleen

Hume (née Greene), Angela Ennistymon

McKiernan (née Moran), Gertrude Lahinch

White (née O’Loughlin), Bridget Inagh

Lynch, Donie Barefield

Lynch, Donie Kilmaley

Madigan, John Shannon

Madigan, John Cross

Meade, Michael Miltown Malbay

Ryan, Sr. Marie Kilkee

Ryan, Sr. Marie Kilmurry McMahon

Ryan, Fintan Carrigaholt

White (née Clancy), Angela Ennis

The Clare Echo Quiz

SHARON SHANNON

1 Where in Clare is Sharon from? Corofin Ruan Tubber

2 What instrument does Sharon play? Accordion Banjo Concert Flute

3Since 1988, Sharon has lived in what city?

4 At what age did Sharon tour the US with Disirt Tola?

5 Her first album was released in 1991 and was the best selling album of traditional Irish music. What was it called? Saints and Scoundrels Sharon Shannon Out the Gap

6Before becoming a solo artist, Sharon toured with which famous folk-rock band? The Byrds The Pogues The Waterboys

QUIZ

7 At which Clare adventure centre was Sharon filming for TG4’s ‘Heartland’?

UL Adventure Centre

Kilrush Aqua Park

Derg Isle Adventure Centre

8Which college awarded Sharon an honorary doctorate in 2018?

University College Dublin

University of Limerick

National University of Galway

9 Which of these is not a Sharon Shannon track??

Tickle Her Leg The Box of Frogs Cavan Potholes

10 Which instrument did Sharon take up during the first lockdown?

Violin

Saxophone Electric Guitar

Pictured

Photo

l Where in Clare is Sharon from?

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES MAY 30th

The Clare Echo Crossword

Bath

Booties

Bottle

Chubby Colic

Cradle

Crawl

Crib Cry

Cuddle

Cute

Diapers

Dimple

Feed

ACROSS 1 Implore (7) 5 Oddly amusing (5)

Primary (5)

Earache (7)

Cases (7)

Fight with swords (5)

Signify (6)

Signal fire (6)

Closes (5)

Small crustaceans (7)

Shakespeare play (7)

Web-footed bird (5)

Artificial silk (5)

Dignity (anag.) (7)

Girl

Gums

High

Love

Lullaby

Midwife

Milk

Nurse

Pink

Sleep

Smile

Twins

Weight

1 Perplexed (7)

2 Lean end of a neck of veal or mutton (5)

3 Take out (7)

4 Nose (slang) (6)

5 Miniature variety of a plant or animal (5)

6 Naturally grown (7)

7 Rental agreement (5)

behaved (7)

(7)

(4,3)