The Clare Echo 31/08/23

SWEET MOMENT AT THE PARK

‘Outrage’ at lawless activity in Ennistymon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LAWLESS activity in Ennistymon has led to the call for increased Garda resources in the locality.

Two of Clare’s leading sports stars have been arrested following several incidents which occurred in a Traveller accommodation site in Ennistymon on Sunday.

The Clare Echo understands that two Traveller families are feuding with attempts to burn down one home made on Friday, in retaliation a man in his fifties was hospitalised with non-life threatening injurie following a shooting. Extensive damage was also caused to a number of domestic residences and vehicles.

During the Sunday attack, a gang of close to a dozen men

were seen entering Deerpark in Ennistymon wearing balaclavas with weapons such as sledge hammers, baseball bats, a scythe, planks of a wood and a firearm, they then proceeded to smash the windows of cars, mobile homes and properties.

Denis Vaughan of Save Ennistymon’s Heritage told The Clare Echo, “The Gardaí and the Government have lost control in Ennistymon. A state of emergency needs to be declared”.

This activity has caused “outrage” in Ennistymon, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) stated. “It is imperative that this undercurrent of criminality is met full on”.

l Sorcha Gully with Cian O’Meara at Clonlara’s clash with Crusheen in Cusack Park

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

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Marty Morrissey looks at big picture for new show

QUILTY’S Marty Morrissey is to front a television show which begins on RTÉ this weekend, writes Páraic McMahon.

Marty who is RTÉ’s Gaelic Games correspondent will present ‘Marty’s Big Picture Show’ alongside Dublin historian Liz Gillis. The six part series begins on Sunday evening at 7:30pm on RTÉ One.

Sixty four year old Marty said he was “delighted and excited” about the show which sees them uncover the work of Ireland’s photographers.

For the first episode, they will explore Limerick in the 1970s through the lens of photographer Gerry Andrews.

A proud Clareman, Marty attended St Flannan’s College and previously spent four years as a teacher in St Joseph’s Spanish Point and was named Clare Person of the Year in 2014.

Liz’s connections to the county are not as strong but she did launch ‘The Scariff Martys’, the book written by award-winning Tuamgraney oral historian Tomás Mac Conmara.

Marty is seen as one of the potential replacements for Ryan Tubridy on his weekly morning radio show on RTÉ Radio One alongside Olvier Callan, Brendan Courtney and Kathyrn Thomas.

Irish Open returns

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS is gearing up for the return of the KMPG Women’s Irish Open with locals hopeful this time round the positive impact of the European Tour event will be visibly clear to see, writes Páraic McMahon 30,000 people attended the 2022 event which saw the Irish Open return to the European Tour after a 10 year hiatus. Though a success from a sporting point of view, it failed to generate a significant economic boost for businesses in the village of Newmarket-on-Fergus with all of the activity kept in the confines of Dromoland Castle.

In a bid to drive some of the goodwill towards the village, the creation of the 19th Hole Community and Family Fun Festival and a shuttle bus every half hour aims to rectify this. Organised by Clare County Council, the family festival on Saturday and Sunday offers a range of events, from the popular Shaskeen traditional music band and the Papa Zitas Motown band experience on Saturday evening to Clodagh Lawlor and Abba Sensations Tribute Band on Sunday evening. The programme of events ensures there’s something for all the family to enjoy, including children’s entertainment at O’Regan Park in Newmarket on Fergus.

lSAY CHEESE: Liz Gillis and Marty Morrissey

Clare Dáil constituency to remain unchanged for next General Election

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S Dáil constituency will remain unchanged for the next General Election.

Four TDs will once again be elected in Co Clare with the constituency continuing to encompass the entire county with no breaches to its boundaries.

The Electoral Commission’s constituency review has recommended that Clare be one of seven constituencies across the country where

no changes are implemented. Cork South-West, Donegal, Dublin Central, Kerry, Limerick County and Waterford will also see no alterations.

Presently, Clare is a four-seat constituency represented by Michael McNamara (IND), Violet Anne Wynne (IND), Cathal Crowe (FF) and Joe Carey (FG). The constituency has a population of 127,938, an increase of 9,121 (7.7%) from the 2016 Census.

This increase in population was

considered by the Commission regarding the current make-up of the constituency. The Commission acknowledged that Clare has been left with a high variance of 8.08%.

Submissions for the Clare constituency saw a significant number focus on the placement of the Ballyglass ED. A large number of submissions referred directly to the position of this electoral division.

Although a small number of these were in favour of the Ballyglass ED returning to the Limerick City con-

stituency, the vast majority were in favour of the Ballyglass ED remaining in the Clare constituency, it returned to Clare in advance of the 2020 General Election and proved very beneficial for first-time candidate Crowe, this part of the county had not been in the constituency from 2011.

There were also submissions that advocated for Clare to become a 5 seat constituency with transfers from Galway East. However, this would have created a new county boundary breach. Parts of the North-East Clare had previously been in the Galway West constituency from 1977 to 1981 while the former Clare-South Galway constituency which existed from 1969 to 1977 elected Bill Loughnane (FF), Brigid Hogan O’Higgins (FG), Michael Carty (FF) (1969) and Johnny Callanan (FF) (1973).

Nationally, the amount of TDs in Dáil Éireann will increase from 160 to 174 while the number of Dáil constituencies will rise from 39 to 43.

Under the Constitution Ireland should have one TD per 20,00030,000 people. These changes mean each TD will represent an average of 29,593 people. Based on the current Dáil of 160 TDs, Ireland is already operating well beyond that with a national average of one TD per 32,182.

Across the country, the number of three seat constituencies will increase to thirteen from nine. The number of four seat constituencies will now be fifteen instead of seventeen while the amount of five seat constituencies goes from thirteen to fifteen.

A new inter county constituency of Wicklow-Wexford is recom-

mended with three seats. The constituency of Laois-Offaly is divided into two constituencies, the new Laois constituency and the new Offaly constituency, both with three seats each.

Other new constituencies include Dublin Fingal East (three seats), Dublin Fingal West (three seats), Tipperary North (three seats) which has additions from the Limerick City constituency and the Carlow Kilkenny constituency and Tipperary South (three seats).

Chair of An Coimisiún Toghcháin, the Electoral Commission, Supreme Court Judge, Ms. Justice Marie Baker stated, “The EU institutions have been deliberating for several months about the overall European Parliament composition, but no final decision on an additional seat has yet been confirmed. In this situation we have had to recommend the status quo while we await confirmation on a likely additional MEP seat for Ireland”.

She added, “Ireland’s historic county boundaries have a particular resonance in the electoral process. The preservation, insofar as is practicable, of the integrity of the county boundaries is an express statutory requirement. It is noteworthy that the preservation of county boundary integrity also stood head and shoulders above any other issue in the 541 public submissions received for the Dáil Review”.

Founded on 9th February 2023, the Electoral Commission “spent the short timeline available since publication of the census on 30 May 2023 in detailed and demanding analysis of the options available to meet the revised population figures and our constitutional and statutory mandates”.

Politicians praise decision to keep boundary intact

KEEPING Clare’s entire geographic boundary intact is the right move according to politicians in the county, writes Páraic McMahon Recommendations issued by the Electoral Commission on Wednesday morning will

see Clare remain as a four-seat constituency comprising of the entire county.

Three different scenarios had been touted including the potential of a section of South Clare moving into Limerick, part of East Clare

joining the Tipperary constituency or a cohort of North Clare falling under the Galway West umbrella.

Instead, the Electoral Commission have opted to keep Clare as is, a move which has been welcomed by Clare’s politicians.

Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) told The Clare Echo, “As a TD for Clare, I am honoured to represent all of County Clare, and I am happy the county boundaries will be respected for the next election. Changing the boundary was an objective of the Electoral Commission but is not one that they managed to achieve”.

Redrawing of the boundaries proved to be the impetus for Cathal Crowe TD (FF) to contest the 2020 General Election and he confirmed to The Clare Echo he will be seeking re-election following the decision to make no changes to the Clare constituency.

Deputy Crowe commented, “It makes so much sense and I think that nationwide they’ve taken the sensible decision to keep county boundaries intact insofar as possible.

The inclusion of the Parteen-Westbury-Shannon Banks-Ardnacrusha area in the constituency five years ago was a major factor in me deciding to go for election. I felt that when this corner of Clare was in the Limerick constitu-

ency it gave me a very weak starting point when launching an election bid and the inclusion of these communities made it possible for me to run and successfully win a seat in 2020.

“There’s a heightened sense of county identity along the border areas of the county and I think most people are very relieved that – particularly in my home parish – that the county boundary is being held intact. I intend to run for re-election the next time out and I think aligning the constituency fully with the county boundary makes it a more level playing pitch for all candidates and parties contesting the next election”.

Efforts were made to contact Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) for comment but were not successful.

Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) in a statement said he was “delighted that the boundary commission has decided to retain the current constituency of Clare as the full county”. He claimed attempts were made in submissions to remove parts of East Clare from the constituency, an area where he would poll strongly, “there was a big effort made to take Killaloe, O’Briensbridge, Ogonelloe, Scariff, Mountshannon and Whitegate into North Tipperary”.

l TALLY Counting during the 2020 General Election

Photo by John Mangan

‘Tackle the criminality head on’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

EXTRA Garda resources have been sought for Ennistymon amid an ongoing Traveller feud with local representatives calling for the criminality to be met on.

Two men have been arrested following several incidents which occurred in a Travellelor accommodation site Ennistymon on Sunday. The arrests were made on Monday with two males arrested in the Ennistymon area, they are currently detained at Ennis Garda Station under Section 30 Offences against the State Act.

The Clare Echo understands that two Traveller families are feuding with attempts to burn down one home made on Friday, in retaliation a man in his fifties was hospitalised following a shooting with non-life threatening injuries while extensive damage was caused to a number of domestic residences and vehicles.

Ready for action in Dromoland

The Inn at Dromoland were delighted to sponsor new training gear for Quin Taekwon-Do club who have eight athletes taking part in the upcoming ITF Taekwon-Do World Championships in Finland in September. Pictured from left to right- Fergal McGee (Head Chef), Stephen Ryan (Head Coach), Shauna Daffy, Shane Tuite, Cara Copeland, David Larkin, Dannan Fox, Nico Hernandez (General Manager)

Two of county’s ‘brightest’ boxing stars arrested following Ennistymon events

TWO of Clare’s brightest sporting stars were arrested as part of the investigation into a series of disturbances which occurred in Ennistymon on Sunday evening, including the discharge of a firearm and criminal damage done to several houses and vehicles, writes Páraic McMahon

The Clare Echo has learned that the Donovan brothers, Paddy and Edward were the two men arrested on Monday as part of the Garda investigation.

Both men have been detained at Ennis Garda Station since under Section 30 of the Criminal Justice

Act, 1939.

Garda sources told The Clare Echo that the duo remained in custody at the time of going to print on Wednesday.

Ennis native Paddy who is commonly known as ‘Real Deal’ is one of the best boxers to have emerged from the county and is viewed as one of the top prospects in Irish boxing at present.

He has 11 professional wins under his belt, eight of which came via knockouts.

He is due to headline at the National Stadium in Dublin on Saturday September 23rd.

“This is a dream come true to headline my first show in Ireland,” he previously remarked of the upcoming bout.

Real Deal in May agreed terms with Matchroom Boxing, one of the world’s biggest promoters.

Edward who made his boxing debut on US soil in June on the same Atlantic fight card as Larry Fryer was hopeful of signing a long-term deal with a US promoter and had previously said he was on the cusp of a three-year deal.

Also a professional boxer, The Dominator fought on the Chris Eubank undercard in January.

During this damage, a gang of close to a dozen men were seen entering Deerpark in Ennistymon wearing balaclavas with weapons such as sledge hammers, baseball bats, a scythe, planks of a wood and a firearm, they then proceeded to smash the windows of cars, mobile homes and properties.

Gardaí at Ennistymon Garda Station are investigating a number of incidents including a discharge of a firearm and criminal damage that occurred in Ennistymon on Sunday 27th August 2023.

Crime prevention officer, Triona Brooks stated, “Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to any of these incidents to come forward. Any road users who may have camera footage (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the Deerpark area of Ennistymon on the evening of Sunday 27th August 2023 are asked to make this footage available to Gardaí. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ennistymon Garda station on 065 7072180, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda station”.

Communities such as Ennistymon have been failed by current Garda management plans, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) said while calling for the levels of criminality to be tackled.

“The overwhelming majority of people in Ennistymon are outraged at this activity and the negative attention it draws for the town. It is imperative that

this undercurrent of criminality is met full on. In this regard, the continued diminution of Garda resources must be addressed. There is not enough visible Gardaí in the county and those we have are having to spend too much time on paperwork instead of real policing. Current Garda management plans are failing communities,” he told The Clare Echo.

Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) said, “the level of lawlessness witnessed in Ennistymon is extreme. It is deeply worrying in its brazenness with the perpetrators having apparently videoed their rampage, appearing to expect that they act with impunity. We know from bitter experience of gangland crime in various parts of this country that if and when groups or gangs think they can act with impunity it takes a huge amount of sustained resources to restore order. The Government needs to ensure that An Garda Síochána in Clare are resourced now to ensure that such groups and gangs know that they will face repercussions for their actions. The causes of crime and gangland activity, such as deprivation and social exclusion, also must be addressed as a priority, but there can be no excuse for scenes like this”.

Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris and Chief Superintendent of the Clare Garda Division, Colm O’Sullivan have received a letter from Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) asking for Garda personnel from beyond Clare to be drafted in to try control the situation. “I have also separately written to Pavee Point, urging them to use leadership voices within the Traveller community to mediate in the situation and hopefully bring some calm. The laws of Ireland are robust and it’s important that An Garda Síochána now use their full powers to bring order here”.

Senator Martin Conway (FG) was appalled with what unfolded in North Clare. He told The Clare Echo, “The situation that developed in Ennistymon over the weekend is totally unacceptable, all forms of vandalism have to be dealt with a zero tolerance approach”. He was confident extra resources would be deployed to Ennistymon. “Whatever resources that need to be redeployed within the Division needs to happen and I’ve no doubt that it will if we are dealing with two families disagreeing”.

‘I will pay for the speed ramps myself’

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ONE month on from the death of Lisdoonvarna’s Jerry O’Connor, a remembrance walk was held in Ballyvaughan with repeated questions put towards politicians on what they are doing to improve the safety of the road network in North Clare.

An approximate 100 people walked from the Burren College of Art to St John the Baptist Church in Ballyvaughan, a distance of over two kilometres.

They were led by Jerry’s widow, Helga Himmelsbach who rode on horseback while hi-visibility jackets sporting the message ‘Remember Jerry, stop the carnage’ were worn by participants.

On their way, walkers passed the spot where Jerry was killed while travelling on his motorbike on Thursday July 27th. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the other vehicle, a French tourist Olivier Le Bozec has appeared before Ennis District Court charged with dangerous driving, Judge Alec Gabbett has remanded Mr Le Bozec on bail and adjourned the case to the middle of November.

Speaking in Ballyvaughan, Helga told the gathering, “Four other people have already been hit and have had life-changing injuries at the spot where Jerry got killed on a normal Thursday morning going about his business. It could have been me, you, your husband, your wife, your child or your friend”.

“For me here today it is an amazing feeling to be here with you, being able to share and feel your support for a pain that could have been avoided and that nobody under those circumstances should be going through but

it has happened and so far nothing has been done so that it will not happen again this very evening”.

Rounds of applause were heard to calls for the addition of speed ramps in Ballyvaughan and also a call from Helga to take control of the speed signs in North Clare. “With a friend of mine, we put up two ‘go slow’ signs, we can all do that in our communities, just cross out the crazy speed limits that are put out here, paint over the speed limit and put in adequate limits, make your own signs, do it immediately, it will be very effective”.

Lisdoonvarna based Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) said the community support was palpable. “It was a month ago but it seems only like yesterday, there is a lot of work going on, Helga actually lit a fire to put more urgency on it.. There are quick things that should and need to be done. What I can do is give my solid promise that I will do everything in my power to make improvements”.

Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) believed matters were made more difficult “because of the fact that we have made the cars the centre of everything instead of the people”. She said greater powers will be issued to local authorities to have their say on the speed limit on national routes. “It shouldn’t take people like Jerry to have to die or for Helga to campaign, it is amazing what you are doing, this is what we need to show people are sick of the car and truck ruining our lives and taking loved ones away from us”.

Inagh native Garvey also criticised Clare County Council at the gathering, “It would be really important to know that there is supposed to be an Active Travel team in Clare County Council, they have all the money in

the world to do the stuff they want like raised pedestrian crossing, people should start asking questions of Pat Dowling the CEO”. When asked by Helga why she did not bring these officials, Garvey remarked, “They are civil servants, they don’t come here on Sundays”.

Cllr Garrihy was disappointed with Garvey’s Active Travel comments, “There are a large number of schemes designed for towns and villages around North Clare under the Active Travel scheme by the County Council engineers, they are waiting for funding from national level to be implemented,” he clarified.

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“If I need to pay for those speed bumps myself I will do it in the morning. Can I give you the money and we get going tomorrow morning,” Helga responded, “the process is too slow and too many lives are impacted by this”.

Corofin’s Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) stated, “The strength of North Clare is its tourism potential and the weakest area of North Clare is our tourism potential as well.

“The difficulty is trying to marry the density of tourists and safety on the roads”. His view that the throughfares of the Burren will need to be widened did not go down well.

lREMEMBRANCEx: 100 people walked in memory of Jerry

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park to bask in inaugural harp celebration

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

COINCIDING with the sixtieth anniversary of the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet, an inaugural two-day harp celebration will take place this weekend.

Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will host the unique celebration on Saturday and Sunday which features harpists and harp music experts from across Ireland with a series of exhibition, talks and performances marking the instrument’s unique position in the medieval banquet offering at Bunratty Castle.

‘A Celebration of the Irish Harp’ is hosted in collaboration with Deirdre O’Brien Vaughan, Director of the Irish Traditional Music Institute. The internationally renowned harpist, musician and music teacher has nurtured thousands of musicians over the last 30 years, toured and taught across the world, and has performed with Comhaltas Ceoltoirí Éireann, The Chieftains and Liam O’Flynn.

Author, historian and founding CEO of Shannon Heritage, Cian O’Carroll officially opens the festival in the banquet hall at 1.00pm. Mr O’Carroll, who worked closely with the late Dr Brendan O’Regan, will outline the importance of the Irish Harp in driving the era of innovation that sparked the inception of the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet 60 years ago.

Internationally celebrated harpists Aine Sheridan and Kim Fleming will be joined by an ensemble of young harpists for a recital in the Main Guard of Bunratty Castle at 2.00pm.

Áine, hailing from Miltown, Co Galway, has travelled the world playing the Irish Harp for international dignitaries and royalty while Kim is one of Ireland’s most respected harpers and enjoys a successful career as a musician, teacher and arranger of traditional Irish repertoire.

Recitals will take place from midday to 4.00pm at Ardcroney Church, which is located within the Folk having been moved brick by brick to Bunratty from County Tipperary in 1988.

On Sunday, renowned harp maker restorer Gerard Doheny hosts a talk on Harp Resto-

ration and an exhibition on harp maintenance and care from 1.00pm to 2.00pm in the castle. Based in Ratheniska in County Laois, Gerard specialises in bespoke handcrafted Harps and Tenor Banjos.

Ardcroney Church once again hosts Harp Recitals from midday to 4.00pm while Dunguaire Castle’s resident harpist, Patty Gibbons presents “From Dunmore to Bunratty – A Dream Fulfilled” at Bunratty Castle at 2.00pm. Inspired by the harp music of Bunratty which she attended as a child in 1967, Patty took up the instrument and 10 years later joined the Bunratty Castle Entertainers as a harpist. The inaugural Harp Festival concludes on Sunday at 2.30pm with an ensemble of harpists from near and far performing an uplifting rendition of harp music.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Deirdre O’Brien Vaughan stated, “I’m really looking forward to this event which will see fifteen harps playing together in Bunratty Castle, it is a great platform for the students, the content between having a lecture with Cian O’Carroll on Brendan O’Regan and Ger Doheny’s workshop on harp maintenance. It is wonderful that there have been 60 consecutive years of medieval banquets, where else would you get it. I am really looking forward to it because it is an event that highlights the importance of our national instrument”.

She added, “I have a great sense of pride that Bunratty is situated in Clare, the musical capital of our country”. Having this platform to perform is vital, Deirdre stressed.

l RED VELVET: Nora Casey, resident harpist at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, pictured with Bunratty Castle Entertainers

Photo by Eamon Ward

‘Robust plan’ for Kilkee Waterworld endorsed

A “REALLY robust plan” for Kilkee Waterworld has been praised by elected representatives as refurbishment works continue at the amenity, writes Páraic McMahon.

Renovations prompted the closure of Kilkee Waterworld last September. It was due to reopen this year but when significant issues relating to its mechanical and electrical systems were

uncovered, delays were encountered as the building was unable to be certified in its current condition.

An estimated €1m will be spent on the leisure facility by the time it reopens with spring of next year now seen as the most likely time for it to come back into use.

At a recent meeting of Clare County Council, a report on the

refurbishment was proposed and adopted by elected members.

How the surrounding area has benefitted from a €6m upgrade of Lahinch Leisure Centre is the goal for Kilkee, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) stated. “There was a change to the management in Kilkee last year and they have taken a dynamic approach, it is such a facility to have in West Clare. I support the really robust plan on what they are going to do”. The Board is now Chaired by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF).

Seconding the adoption of the report, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) echoed the comments of his col-

CLOSINGDOWN SALE

league in hoping for a positive future for Kilkee Waterworld. “I commend the board for bringing the project to this level,” Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG). Chair of the Social Development Strategic Policy Committee (SPC) of Clare County Council, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) stated, “I acknowledge the great support for the three bodies operating outside of the Council umbrella, we see it in Lahinch, Shannon and now Kilkee. This support must continue, we need to pencil in more permanent of an arrangement to support these three outside centres”.

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lCHAIR: Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF)

lKilkee Waterworld

Hotels share €21m Ukrainian bonanza

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A NUMBER of Clare hotel operators last year shared out a €21.27m (all figures 23pc VAT) bonanza from accommodating Ukrainians.

New figures from the Department of Integration show that two Lisdoonvarna based hotels received in excess of a combined €6.49m in 2022.

The detailed figures show that the King Thomond Hotel in Lisdoonvarna operated by James White & Co UC last year received €2.79m.

The directors of the firm are listed as Megan White, David Giblin and Ann Barrett and the firm now has unlimited status where it is no longer required to file accounts to show the level of profits it makes.

The Hydro Hotel Ltd also based in Lisdoonvarna received €3.7m for accommodating Ukrainians. Marcus White and Somjai Kaewmahawong are listed as directors.

The figures also show that Kilkee Townhouse Ltd, the operator of the Kilkee Bay Hotel and owned by Derek Logue last year received payments of €3.24m for accommodating Ukrainians. The Co Clare hotel which received the highest level of payments for accommodating Ukrainians in 2022 is the Auburn Lodge Hotel in Ennis.

The hotel operator, Camison Ltd last year received €3.85m for accommodating Ukrainians. The Auburn Lodge is owned and operated by members of the Lyne family who have a long association of operating hotels in the county, including the Queen’s Hotel in Ennis town centre.

The Waterford based Treacy hotel group operate Treacy’s West County Hotel in Ennis. The figures show that the firm which operates the West County hotel, Timbertoes UC last year received €1.07m in State payments for accommodating Ukrainians. Timbertoes also has unlimited status where its financial results are not open to public scrutiny.

A sister hotel to Treacy’s West County Hotel is Treacy's Oakwood Hotel in Shannon and separate figures show that hotel operator, Shannon Estuary Hotel Ltd received €1.18m in payments for accommodating Ukrainians. The figures also show that the operator of the

Bunratty Castle hotel which is owned by the Meadows and Byrne Group received €719,200 for accommodating Ukrainians.

The profits from accommodating Ukrainians would be much lower for the operators after all the various costs are factored in.

The owner of the Rowan Tree Hostel in Ennis, the Galway based Dom St Properties Ltd received €1.89m in 2022.

The successful health recruitment firm coowned and operated by Ennis man, Brian Crowley, TTM Healthcare Ltd last year received €2.84m for accommodating Ukrainians and related costs.

Asked to comment on the figures, Lahinch hotelier, Michael Vaughan said that entering into State contracts is very attractive to hotel owners operating in areas of the county where the season is short as the contracts guarantee occupancy year round. However, Mr Vaughan stated that the use of hotels for Ukrainians has contributed to a diminished tourist footfall in certain parts of Clare as the tourism ecosystem around the hotels has suffered. He said that the lost business has not been displaced to other parts of the county because there isn’t enough accommodation in Clare with Government taking around 37pc of all holiday accommodation in the country for a variety of reasons

He said, “The streets of Lahinch are much quieter this summer and restaurants, cafes, ice cream parlours season are reporting a season that is much diminished”.

Mr Vaughan said that a special county task force should be established to examine the impact on small tourism businesses of making available the accommodation for Government purposes. He said, “We have not seen any great attempts to replace the tourist accommodation lost with other accommodation and I don’t have any disagreement with the operators who have gone into Government contracts - they have done the State some service”.

Mr Vaughan said, “I find it very worrying for tourism. It is our greatest indigenous industry and it shows a complete lack of policy that we allow this to continue without mitigation measures in place”.

l WORRIED: Lahinch hotelier Michael Vaughan

Photo by Martin Connolly

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First day at Ennis National School

ShannonDoc relocates its Ennis care centre

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNONDOC is relocating its Ennis centre to the primary care centre in the county town.

On Monday, ShannonDoc will mark 21 years in Ennis with a move to a new purpose built facility on Station Rd.

As of Monday, September 4th, the out-of-hours GP co-op moves to the New Primary Care Centre at Station Road, Ennis – eircode V95 TY4E - from its previous location at the Ennis General Hospital, Gort Road, Ennis.

An enhanced work environment for staff plus a more spacious facility for patients and ample parking spaces has been promised. The move will see enhanced facilities to staff and patients, from a spacious reception area to two new treatment rooms, a nebulization room, storage facilities and staff canteen.

The ShannonDoc centre provides an urgent GP service for patients for Ennis and surrounding areas. Three Doctors and resource staff will operate the centre daily from 18.00 to 08.00

Monday to Thursday and from 18.00 on Friday to 08.00 on Monday morning and all public holidays. Home visits are also available in cases where patients are unable to travel to the centre.

Last year, Ennis’ ShannonDoc centre handled 11,291 appointments, up by 86% (6,057 in 2021) on the previous year.

ShannonDoc CEO Peter Clarke said that the move to the new state-of-the-art Primary Care Centre ensures continuity of the quality service ShannonDoc provides in the Mid-West region in enhanced facilities.

He stated, “This move to a purpose-built medical centre on Station Road is fantastic for ShannonDoc as the impact of COVID subsides because over the past year we’ve seen a return of patients on site through scheduled appointments.

“During the challenging period of the pandemic, the majority of patients were triaged over the phone and, indeed, in cases where it was deemed a requirement, getting an appointment with a doctor over the phone. Prior to COVID, up to 80% of calls resulted in a patient visiting one of our centres whereas now it’s the opposite”.

Renvil Suaries on his first day of school at Ennis National School

Photo by John Mangan lHEALTHCARE: The new facility at Station Road

Caherconnell International Furnace Festival

Dr Eamon Doyle, Geologist with the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, and Irish Smelting Archaeologist Dr. Paul Rondelez at the Furnace Festival

Keith Armitage and Tim Stanley taking a rest at the Furnace

An iron Bloom at Caherconnell Stone Fort

Keith Armitage, Cloughjordan , Co Tipperary with an iron Bloom at the Furnace Festival at Caherconnell Stone Fort in The Burren, Co Clare this weekend

Eoin McBride, Newmarket on Fergus at the Furnace Festival at the 1,000-year-old Caherconnell Stone Fort

Jens Jørgen Olesen working on an Iron Bloom in Caherconnell

Cóilín Ó Dubhghaill, Daniel Jeffery and Ethan Willett working on an iron bloom at the Furnace Festival at Caherconnell Stone Fort where blacksmiths and traditional iron smelters from across Ireland, the UK, Europe and Canada gathered for the Caherconnell International Furnace Festival at the weekend Photograph by Eamon Ward

Jack Murphy with an Iron Age Axe he made at Caherconnell Stone Fort

Irish Smelting Archaeologist Dr. Paul Rondelez of the Irish Iron Heritage Foundation showing some of the iron pieces worked on to Eanna and Michael Collins from Kilfenora at the Furnace Festival

SHANNON NEWS

in association with

Airport’s model aircraft collection encapsulates the dreams of Mike

SHANNON Airport unveiled the second instalment of a permanent exhibition containing the world’s largest collection of diecast model aircraft on Tuesday morning, writes Páraic McMahon.

Members of the general public can now marvel at the exhibition located in the airport terminal building which offers a captivating journey through the evolution of aviation, showcasing an unparalleled collection, meticulously amassed over many years by Michael ‘Mike’ Kelly. The first installation opened in 2018 and houses over 1,500 model aircraft in the Departures Lounge.

950 model aircraft from every corner of the world dating back to the 1930s are included in the new exhibition. Among the impressive models on display are the full collection of Concordes, a complete fleet of VC 10’s, the legendary Sunderland aircraft once owned by Al Capone, and the Super Trailer Limited, the oldest aircraft replicated in the collection.

In addition, the gallery also features the full collection of Ryanair and Aer Lingus aircraft, alongside the iconic Antonov 225 carrying the space shuttle – a testa-

ment to Shannon Airport’s historic designation as an alternate landing strip for the US Space Shuttle, thanks to its long runway.

CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine spoke of how Shannon was an “airport synonymous with breaking new frontiers” while referencing it being the first transatlantic gateway to Europe, the birthplace of the Duty Free, “we see boundaries as opportunities”. On the new collection, she remarked, “the magic of these aircraft and large metal plane is that it tells the story of young boy looking up at the sky and wanting to pull back the skies to see the aircraft”.

She recalled how when Mike began collecting that he attracted the attention of Customs officials in Shannon who noticed he would leave with an empty suitcase and return back a day or so later with it full. “One day he was pulled aside by Customs, he didn’t realise they were suspicious of him and he proceeded to tell them about the history of every single plane, needless to say he wasn’t stopped again”. Mary paid tribute to Shannon Airport staff members Niall Kearns, Joe Baker, Maurice Fitzgerald and Claire Corry along with former colleagues Niall

Moloney and John Francis for giving the exhibition a permanent home in Shannon.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Farranshone native Mike admitted it was a fantastic feeling to see the exhibition expand. “I’m delighted that the journey is done, I can sit back and enjoy it a little. I’ve an empty house now. It’s over, that journey is over”.

Since the 1950s Mike has shared his love for Shannon Airport with the extraordinary collection. He is one of Shannon’s greatest ambassadors and often visits the Airport to clean the diecast models, such occasions are a real treat for passengers who are then treated to wonderful tales on the story behind each model.

He concluded, “Shannon Airport holds a special place in my heart. As a young boy, watching planes take off and land ignited my fascination with aviation, and that passion has never waned. I am incredibly grateful to Shannon Airport for helping me share this extraordinary collection with the world. Many of these model aircraft are extremely rare and hold a wealth of history and significance. It is a dream come true to see them on display here at Shannon Airport”.

EXHIBITION: Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine with Mike Kelly Photo by Arthur Ellis

lPROUD: Alec Kenny (10), Kyle Shephard (10) and Ollie Kenny (5) Photo by Arthur Ellis

Ennis mourns the loss of Brian Fitzgerald

by Tony Mulvey news@clareecho.ie

EVEN though living London for the past 35 years, the late Brian Fitzgerald steadfastly remained a proud Ennis and Clare man up to the time of his recent death.

He was fondly remembered among the big attendance at his funeral mass in St. Joseph’s Church Ennis on Saturday last. Afterwards the burial of his ashes took place in Drumcliffe Cemetery in the grave of his wife, the former Mary Callinan, Clarecastle and their infant son Eamon. Many tributes were paid to the former Ennis CBS primary school teacher and GAA enthusiast who played Dr. Harty Cup and Dean Ryan hurling with his school and later with his beloved Éire Óg and minor grade with Clare. He was also secretary of the Éire Óg club for some time.

He was a native of Clare Road, Ennis and a son of the late M.J. and Maisie Fitzgerald.

He was born in March 1946 and was aged 77 years at the time of his death on June 11 last.

His lifelong friend and another well known Townie, Noel Howard was among those who paid tribute to Brian at his funeral mass.

Knowing Brian since he was five years old, Noel recalled that like a lot of Ennis youngsters Brian attended the Convent of Mercy before going on to complete his education at Ennis CBS primary and

secondary schools.

He decided to take up teaching as a career and carried out his training at St. Patrick’s College in Drumcondra, Dublin.

His first appointment was to North Brunswick school in Dublin where among the teaching staff was Paddy Crosbie who will be remembered for his popular radio programme ‘The School Around the Corner’ which first aired in Easter 1954.

Afterwards Brian taught at Sexton Street CBS in Limerick before returning to Ennis to continue a very successful career in his former alma mater. There he continued to promote hurling and was also instrumental in having a handball alley and squash courts developed at Ennis CBS. He was always delighted to see his past pupils progress well in life and was proud of the fact that two of them, Stephen McNamara and Seanie McMahon won All Ireland senior championship medals with Clare in 1995 and 1997.

After over 20 years teaching in Ennis he decided to retire and went London to manage The Cantebury Arms pub in Brixton. He upgraded the premises and ran a very successful business with the help of his wife Mary and family and Brian’s brother-in-law Eamon Callinan. It became well known for its promotion of Irish music and for the benefit of his Irish clientele, Brian had all the well known Irish provincial newspapers at their disposal

Ennis media gets IMRO nods

TWO Ennis reporters and Clare FM have been shortlisted in the 2023 IMRO Radio Awards, writes Páraic McMahon

Clare FM has been shortlisted twice in the Documentary category for the stations feature length specials ‘Bottler’ and ‘Falsely Accused’. Both documentaries were produced by Clare FM Programme Director Padraic Flaherty.

Brendan Grace’s strong links to Killaloe were chronicled in ‘Bottler’ while Falsely Accused told the story of Ennis native, Bernárd Lynch and his fight for justice whilst offering relentless support to AIDS patients as a priest in

IBTS CLINICS

the United States. Lynch’s documentary was cited by many elected representatives at a recent civic reception held by Clare County Council. This documentary already earned Gold at the New York Radio Awards.

Former Clare FM Head of News, John Cooke who is now heard across the country on RTÉ Radio One is in the running for news reporter of the year alongside Ennis native Brian O’Connell who is now based in Co Cork.

John’s work in reporting on the tragedy in Creeslough explosion in Donegal last October has also earned him a nod in the shortlist for the news story category.

THE Irish Blood Transfusion Service will hold four blood donation clinics next week at St Joseph’s GAA Hall, Gurteen, Quin Road, Ennis, V95 PD36.

Monday 4th, Tuesday 5th, Wednesday 6th and Thursday 7th September from 16:50 to 20:10. Please phone 1800 222 111 for appointment.

every weekend including The Clare Champion. His customers also included police and fire brigade personnel from their near-by stations.

However, Brian had to retire from business in 2015 when The Cantebury Arms was sold to make way for a major development in the area. Brian and his wife then relocated to live in Beckenham London.

Noel who visited Brian and family many times in London, also recalled Brian making many trips home especially when Clare were playing hurling championship games.

Big disappointments for Brian was the death of his wife, Mary in June 2020 and the death of their infant son Eamon.

He also mentioned how Brian regretted at missing out by one year from winning a Dr. Harty Munster Colleges Cup medal with Ennis CBS in 1962. He featured with the school team in 1963.

Brian’s death took place in London on June 11 last after which cremation took place at Beckenham Crematorium on July 11.

There was a large attendance of friends at Brian’s funeral mass in St. Joseph’s church, Ennis on Saturday last. Fr. David Carroll celebrated the mass after which members of Éire Óg GAA club paid their tribute with a guard of honour. Fr. Carroll also officiated at the graveside ceremony in Drumcliffe cemetery.

Sympathy is extended to Brian’s daughters, Michelle and Mary

Ennis Toastmasters Club to begin winter series of meetings

ENNIS Toastmaster’s Club will commence their winter series of meetings on Tuesday next (September 5th), writes

Páraic McMahon

Taking place in the Temple Gate Hotel, the series will be held twice monthly on every second Tuesday of the month for the winter.

President of Ennis Toastmasters Club, Geraldine Gregan said, “New members are very welcome and can come along as guests to any of our meetings to learn about Toastmasters. This is the fiftieth year of Toastsmasters in Ennis and a fiftieth club committee is busy organising a series of events to mark this very special year”.

l Loyal Townie Brian Fitzgerald

Lisa, his brothers M.J. and Gerard (Australia), sister Geraldine Sheehan and members of the Callinan family.

lPublic speaking

Thought for the week: Heart of Autumn

Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

WHY are trees so forgiving? Because in Autumn they “let it go” and in the spring, they “turn over a new leaf.”

GOD’S HANDIWORK

As I write this thought for the week, approaching the end of August and the beginning of September, the sun shines brightly and the gentle breeze rustles the trees and plants outside my sitting room window. No doubt about it that autumn is here, and it seems it’s both gentle and a little foreboding. At times such as these, it’s good to tap into your own spiritual self and reflect on life with God in prayer. Autumn is upon us with all the bright colours.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, I pray that as the signs of autumn begin to show themselves all around us, that you will remember that each new day is like a cleared field after harvesting. Your thoughts, attitudes,

and actions are the fruit and crops of what you planted. This autumn choose only the fruits and crops that produced a bountiful harvest of love, joy, health, kindness, care, prosperity, mercy, forgiveness, compassion and peace and let that which held you back drift away. And may you give thanksgiving not only for the autumn time around you, but also for the autumn time within you. May we enter into Autumn praising God for its particular beauty, taking comfort in the unchanging and yet always changing rhythm of life, remembering that, as the writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us, “Whatever is has already been, and what will be has been before.”

Praise be that the God who set the seasons in motion is the same God who created and shaped and loved each one of us into being, the same God who walks with us through every season of our lives. Autumn time and indeed the autumn of life is a great time to focus on God’s wonderful blessings such as family, friends, colleagues, strength, shelter, provision, guidance, care, fruitful ministry, opportunities to serve, more time to pray and study His Word, and eternal life still to come.

During life’s autumn, we have a richer perspective and can count more blessings than ever before.

Happy Autumn everyone! I wish each of you as you read this thought, in this moment and on this day, much peace and joy. Feel this autumn, own it, squeeze the autumn fruit out of it. You

have arrived at your destination; this is the present autumn of your life. Let me finish with a Prayer I wrote about Autumn Harvest Time.

“In the setting of the Autumn sun, In the shortening of days, In the cooling of the breeze,In the flight of migrating birds, In brightness of the rays of moon-

light, In the browning and decay of leaves once green and full of life, In the beauty of morning mists and wintry chills, In the beauty of the fruit that falls, In the coldness of nature’s first frost, We see the Creator’s Hand.

So our God of the harvest, Our Farmer and Harvester supreme, Please place us

we pray at the centre of all that is good during this Harvest time. Feed us, nurture us, prune us, strengthen us, harvest us and provide for us, Then look to a different harvest, a fruitfulness of our lives in service to you and others. That our lives might bring glory to you.

We bless you, God of Seed and Harvest, And we bless each other, That the beauty of this world, And the great love and care that created it, Might be expressed through our own lives And be a blessing to others, now and always. God of all seasons, we thank you for this present Autumn season.

We thank you for the touch of coolness in the air that gives us a new burst of energy, for the coloring of trees that shows the creativity of the Divine Artist, for the falling leaves that reveal the strength of the branches, for the hues of fields that bring peace to our souls, for the smiles on pumpkins that bring joy to children, for the fall harvest which that brings us gratitude for the bounty of our land, for this change of seasons that reveals the circle of life.

God of all seasons, as you transform the earth, transform us by your Holy Spirit. Amen. Enjoy a beautiful autumn!!

Irish evening classes coming soon to Ennis

Ranganna oíche Gaeilge do dhaoine fásta ag tosaigh go gearr in inis!

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

SPRAOI le Gaeilge will commence Irish conversational classes in the coming weeks and are accepting reservations for: absolute beginners, intermediate, and advanced students.

Price for the 8-week course is €60.

To reserve your place or for further information please contact: spraoilegaeilge@gmail.com or call 085 -1295594

BEALAÍ LE FEABHAS A CHUIR AR DO CHUID GAEILGE / WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR IRISH

Ceann de na bealaí is fearr feabhas a chuir ar do chuid Gaeilge ná éisteacht le RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta / One of the best ways to improve your Irish is to listen to RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta. I gcaitheamh an lae craoltar cláracha ceoil agus cainte sa dtrí chanúint / Throughout the day they broadcast music and talk programmes in the three dialects. Agus is féidir iarratais a sheoladh chucu freisin, chuig cláracha cosúil le ‘’Nead na Fuiseoige’’ a bhíonns air chuile mhaidin ón 7 – 8am / And you can also send them your requests to shows such as ‘’Nead na Fuiseoige (The Lark’s Nest) which airs everyday between 7-8am.

l Gráinne Ní Dhomhnaill agus Pádraig Ó Sé ó RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta

Imeachtaí/Events:

• 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

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

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

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

l Autumn leaves

Lighthouse shines brightly as Mental Health Support in West Clare

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE West Clare Mental Health Association was founded almost 50 years ago, by a group of locals who were no doubt ahead of their time.

For people living in rural West Clare, the threat of isolation and depression are never far away. According to Peer Support Coordinator with the West Clare Mental Health Association, James Fennelly, this is unfortunately reflected in the national suicide statistics.

“The suicide statistics for Clare are running at twice the national average. That is a concern. When you take Clare in consideration to Kerry, Mayo, Donegal, which would also have a mixture of farming and fishing communities and are rural, the figures aren’t comparable,”

The Kildare native has been in the role, based at the Lighthouse in Kilrush, since 2019 and he believes that the biggest challenge for people suffering with mental health difficulties in West Clare is the stigma, stressing that it often prevents people from accessing the available supports.

James says that the West Clare Mental Health Association is often a “softer” point of entry to seeking help with a range of non-judgmental services such as their weekly peer support groups and Woodland for Wellbeing walks. Here, people have a safe space to meet like-minded people and if needs be, seek further information on appropriate clinical supports.

Peer support groups take place every Tuesday (7-9pm) and Friday (5-7pm) at the Lighthouse, offering a safe place for people to meet others with similar or shared life experiences. “That’s how peer support is delivered to people, so if you have someone for example who may be suffering with anxiety or depression, they can come to a peer support meeting and speak directly with someone who has lived experience of anxiety or depression, it’s a

non-clinical environment.”

The biggest challenge, James admits, is for people to make the first step and come through the doorway. However he stresses, “it’s free, it’s accessible, the kettle is always on, we never turn people away from the door.

“The old saying, ‘a problem shared is a problem halved’. It’s real, it’s not out of a textbook, it’s someone giving you the benefit of their experience as opposed to the benefit of their training or their knowledge. So, it can range from someone who has been crippled by anxiety for a few days, or for a day or two struggled to get out of the bed. By speaking to others and realising they’re not alone, these things are more common than people understand, people draw strength and comfort from that, and most people will go away from the meeting in a more positive frame of mind and may have some more holistic things in their wellness toolbox to take away from the meeting.”

James adds that the experience of attending peer support has been life-changing for many people who now consider their peers from the group as within their circle of friends.

Another crucial outlet which has seen huge success since being introduced early last year is the Woodland for Wellbeing walk at the Vandeleur Woods every Tuesday at 11am. James notes, “It’s evidence based that walking through woodland can have a greater positive effect on your mood, than say, going for a walk around a football pitch or down the town, for some reason woodland has that effect on people. We’ve seen all the seasons through the woodland, the good weather, the bad weather, the bluebells, the frost, and definitely it’s one of our most popular things. A very simple thing to do for people and people look forward to coming every week.

“That’s how some people have come to the Lighthouse, they have gone to the Woodland walk and after a few

times on it, they understand that everyone is there from the point of view to keep themselves well.”

The mission of the association – which comprises a volunteer board of management led by chairperson and Kilrush native Aisling Glynn – has always been to promote positive mental health and wellbeing for all the individuals in the community and to support people with lived experience of mental health difficulties in their recovery journey.

The association, which counts James as its’ sole employee, is not funded by the HSE and relies on donations and grant applications. Other services he helps to coordinate include Edel Curtin’s Music Club, an online offering run by the Kilmihil woman for people with an interest or love of music to come together to listen, sing or play music which came about as a result of Covid.

The Association also delivers WRAP courses (Wellness, Recovery, Action, Planning) in Kilrush and Ennis which help people develop the tools and strategies to look after themselves; while in association with Midwest ARIES they accommodate workshops, with an anxiety workshop happening on September 20 / 27 on managing anxiety.

Lighthouse also houses an organic garden which needs tending to and they are always on the lookout for volunteers.

People can get in contact with James Fennelly, Peer Support Coordinator by calling 085 8559511 or 065 9062329 or visit Facebook (WestClareMentalHealth) or Twitter @ClareMental. Visit westclarementalhealth. ie for more information or email westclaremha@ mentalhealthireland.ie

See Change - Green Ribbon theme for 2023 is Judgment. Across the month of September, See Change will explore what mental health judgement is, where it shows up across society, how judgement impacts people with mental health difficulties, and what we call all do to help end the unfair judgement of ourselves and others. Keep an eye on See Change’s social media channels to learn about shame and the negative impacts it can have on people with mental health difficulties.

GREEN CLARE Dips for cleanliness status of Doolin, Lahinch & Mountshannon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DOOLIN, Lahinch and Mountshannon have been found not to match European norms for cleanliness, all recording a dip in their status.

Slips were recorded for three Clare areas in the annual survey of coasts and inland waterways by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). Beaches, harbours, rivers and their immediate environs were monitored by An Taisce in June and July. While there was a 50% rise in clean sites overall, the survey again found coastal areas to be more littered than our towns.

Both Lahinch and Doolin were deemed to be ‘littered’ which is the worst of the three categories while Mountshannon dropped into the ‘moderately littered’ category. The study of 33 areas nationwide detailed that most littered areas have cleaned up but the majority of beaches fall short of clean status, despite the unsettled summer meaning lower visitor numbers. For the first time since IBAL commenced its coastal surveys in 2017, no area was deemed a litter blackspot.

An Taisce’s report for Mountshannon stated that it missed out on the top litter grade because of “too many small food and alcohol related items strewn about. Recent grass cutting resulted in ‘chopped up litter’ as grass was cut before the litter was removed. The recycle facilities were freshly presented, however one unit had a crack towards the base on the right hand side. Car parking area, litter bins, visitor information notices, life-belts, etc were freshly presented. One of the dog fouling notices along the walkway had been defaced. As well as the food related litter,

the most obvious items were cigarette butts. Evidence of BBQs included burnt grass and some disposable BBQ waste”.

A ”very definite litter presence” was noted at Doolin Pier and Harbour, surpassing the 2022 survey. “Signage was very clear and legible but there didn’t appear to be any specific notices relating to littering and based on the amount of litter present, there is very much a need for same. Almost all of the litter was food related e.g. pizza boxes, plastic bottles, cans (alcohol and mineral), coffee cups, sweet papers, food utensils etc. Other items included tissue paper. The most obvious nonfood items were cigarette butts not just isolated butts but several accumulations throughout. The majority of the litter was around the perimeter of the car park and on the stoney area. The dog fouling amenity beneath the large signage was in good condition”.

Although the main beach of Lahinch was viewed to be “generally fine” when it came to litter, the promenade, rock armour and car parks brought down the overall grade. “The area was certainly more heavily littered than in the 2022 survey. Heavy levels of alcohol / mineral cans, fast-food wrappers, plastic bottles, plastic utensils, sweet wrappers, dog-fouling and cigarette butts, with lower levels of other items were present. There was a variety of marine related (along with food items) litter trapped in the rock armour near the promenade e.g. fishing crates, lines / nets / ropes etc. A somewhat filled black sack was discarded by a Big Belly bin with other items accumulating on top of it. The older blue style bins look very ‘tired’ and risk the contents being extracted by birds, there didn’t appear to be any signage associated with them. This

is in contrast to the freshly presented Dog Fouling facility which was in very good order. There was the remains of several fires in the grass near the top car park”.

Conor Horgan of IBAL stated, “Over an unsettled summer, where our beaches attracted far fewer numbers than normal, one might have expected the majority to be virtually free of litter. Unfortunately, this does not reflect the state of our coastal environment. There is much ‘long lie’ litter and waste coming in from the sea, and this is compounded by litter from those who continue to frequent

our coastline despite the inclement weather”. Disposable vapes were revealed as an emerging form of litter, encountered in one in seven of all visits, making them significantly more common on our beaches than on our streets. “This time last year we were not seeing this form of litter at all, so its rapid emergence is worrying. So, too, is its impact on our environment,” warned Conor. He said IBAL favours the banning of disposable vapes, which, it contends, run counter to the notion of a circular economy

l Mountshannon

‘Substantial expansion’ sees addition of three new bus routes from East Clare

THREE new bus services will be launched from Monday increasing public transport connectivity from East Clare, writes Páraic McMahon

TFI Local Link Limerick Clare have announced plans to put the wheels in motion for three new bus services from Monday (August 28th). The three new Regular Rural Services (RRS) will all operate seven days a week in what is seen as a major boost in public transport for the people of Clare.

This is part of the Connecting Ireland Rural Mobility Plan which is a national public transport initiative developed and funded by the National Transport Authority (NTA) as part of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) Network.

Route 318 will be TFI Local Link’s first service operating from Ennis to Limerick. The route will take in towns

and villages including Quin, Kilkishen, O’Callaghan’s Mills, Broadford and Ardnacrusha. The route will have three return journeys a day Monday to Sunday with the addition of an early morning connection from Quin to Limerick and a late evening return service from Limerick to Quin, an area which has seen a large population increase in recent years.

Its early morning service is due to arrive into Ennis before 9am with a range of return journey options to cater for workers. The route also includes stops at Knappogue Castle and Quin Abbey, one of the most well preserved Franciscan Abbey’s in Ireland, which will give tourists the option to use public transport to visit the area.

Route 342 will run from Flagmount to Ennis servicing Feakle, Scariff and Tulla along the way. This service will have three return journeys per day

Monday to Sunday. Visitors can also see views of Lough Graney, one of the largest lakes in Clare and take in the Cahermurphy Looped Walk.

Commencing in Whitegate, Route 344 will travel to Ennis and will run four return journeys Monday to Sunday. This new route will really benefit Whitegate and Mountshannon in particular and will enable better access for locals and tourists. The service will facilitate workers to get to Ennis for 8am with the option to connect with Irish Rail, Bus Éireann and other public transport services. Early evening and a night return journey will provide people with the freedom to work late and still have access to bus services to get them home.

Timetables have been designed by the NTA and TFI Local Link working in partnership to meet the needs of local people, following a public consultation earlier this year.

All aboard the newly refurbished Arc for National Cinema Day

THIS Saturday, the Arc Cinema in Ennis will once again offer everyone the chance of a cinema visit from just €4 for National Cinema Day, writes Elaine

Tubridy

Over 99% of cinemas in Ireland have signed up to participate in the event, following the hugely successful first edition last year. Those participating include all major cinema operators and a widerange of smaller cinema operators and venues.

Off the back of the massive popularity of both Barbie and Oppenheimer, the cinema industry inIreland has united to celebrate the ritual of cinema-going and the important place it has in Irish life.

For many years, Ireland has had the highest cinema attendance per capita in Europe. The Republic of Ireland also has the highest screen density per capita of any European country, with an average of one cinema screen per 10,000 people.

“Screen Ireland is proud to support National Cinema

Day this year,” said Désirée Finnegan, Chief Executive of Screen Ireland. “We join with the wider industry in thanking audiences for their continued support of Irish film and loyal cinema-going. The support from Irish audiences has made the incredible success of Irish film in the past year possible. We’re delighted to promote the Irish films available to choose from as part of this intiative - and we hope audiences around the country will have a wonderful experience connecting with those stories on the big screen.”

A spokesperdon for the Arc Cinema said: “While all the evidence confirms that cinema-going is amongst the most low-cost, best value-for-money leisure opportunies, we also of course recognise that many households are still experiencing significant impacts on their finances and wanted to do our bit to make a trip to the cinema even more affordable for the whole family.”

The Arc Cinema on Par-

nell Street in Ennis has recently undergone a refurbishment and name change from Empire Movieplex. The refurbishment included new seating and concessions area as well as full upgrading of flooring and finishes. General Manager Cathal O’Sullivam says “We hope that Na onal Cinema Day 2023 will be another huge success and look forward to welcoming audiences back to our cinemas as they take advantage of this fantastic offer with friends and family.”

Visit https://ennis.arccinema.ie/ to find out more, or scan the QR code below.

The

lLOVE OF CINEMA:

Arc Cinema, Ennis

Energia keen to hear from ‘local businesses, suppliers and contractors’

As the Crossmore Wind Farm enters the construction phase, Energia Renewables will be holding a ‘Meet the Team’ event at the Lissycasey Community Centre on Thursday 7th September from 3-8pm, writes Elaine

Tubridy.

The Energia Renewables construction team and main contractors, including representatives from Wills Bros. Civil Engineering Ltd. and Mainline Electrical Contractors Ltd. will be on hand to answer questions from local businesses.

Business opportunities during the construction phase include:

• Construction material suppliers - Concrete, aggregates, building materials.

• Plant hire contractors - Excavation, earthworks, cranage

• General operative hire - Engineers, plant operatives, labourers

• Service suppliers – Fuel suppliers, garage services, catering, hotels and other accommodation providers

Pat Tierney, Head of Construction for Energia Renewables, said: “We want to ensure that Crossmore Wind Farm will benefit the local area both in the construction and in the operational phase. That’s why we’re keen to hear from local businesses, suppliers and

contractors. Projects of this nature inevitably require some workers from outside the local area and we are keen to hear from anyone who has local accommodation to let.”

Local residents are also invited to attend the event to find out more about the wind farm and sign up to a text messaging service to receive regular construction updates.

Energia will be investing around €49.5 million in this exciting new renewable energy development, which will make a significant annual rates contribution to Clare County Council in the region of €440,000 per annum. The 25.2MW wind farm will help Ireland reach its 80% renewable electricity target by 2030, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and increasing energy supply security. The wind farm will operate an annual community benefit fund that will support community groups, voluntary organizations, and environmental projects in the local area.

Energia have created a web page, where they are posting regular construction updates. They will also be operating a text messaging service for anyone who would like to receive updates on their mobile. To find out more, please visit www.energiagroup.com or email the Energia Community Liaison Team at clo@energia.ie.

Uisce Éireann encourages businesses to attend Water Wisdom session

BUSINESSES across County

Clare are encouraged to sign up to a talk on how they can safeguard water resources and the many sustainable opportunities available to them.

Water Wisdom: Empowering Businesses to Become Stewards for our Future is a one-hour online water stewardship talk hosted by Uisce Éireann which takes place on September 19.

This free event is being held as part of Shannon Chamber’s inaugural Sustainability Week, which Uisce Éireann is delighted to be supporting.

By attending this talk, attendees will gain practical tips and a deeper understanding of how to become a water steward in their own community.

Christine Crawford, leading the Uisce Éireann Water Stewardship Programme, will guide attendees through the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding water resources. She will highlight the positive impact we can all have through an introduction to the Uisce Éireann Water Stewardship Programme.

Christine will be joined

by Steve Browne, Lead Tutor with the award-winning Uisce Éireann Lean & Green Skillnet Certified Water Steward Programme in Ireland. Steve has supported hundreds of Irish firms who have completed the programme to date and has vast experience in helping large and small firms navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by climate change and water.

Speaking ahead of the Sustainability Week event Christine Crawford said “Safeguarding our precious water resources is a top priority for Uisce Éireann. For that reason, we are delighted to partner with Shannon Chamber’s Sustainability Week. Conserving water not only helps protect your local supply – it can also protect the environment, boost your reputation, and reduce your bills. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to make a positive difference in your business and community. Together, we can make a significant difference in conserving water and ensuring its availability for future generations.”

Helen Downes, CEO Shannon Chamber added: “The objective of the over-

all Sustainability Week is to give companies and their employees a greater appreciation for and understanding of sustainability. As water is one of the Sustainable Development Goals, we are delighted to have Uisce Éireann on board to illustrate how businesses can make a significant difference in creating a sustainable water future. Enabling companies to monitor and reduce their water consumption is a very positive move both towards helping the environment and lowering costs.”

The Uisce Éireann Water Wisdom: Empowering Businesses to Become Stewards for our Future takes place on day two of Sustainability Week which focuses on Sustainable Development Goal 6, a global goal set by the United Nations to ensure clean water and sanitation for all. It covers various aspects of water and sanitation, such as availability, quality, management, wastewater, ecosystems, and governance.

Visit

Health Care Support Assistants, Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary

At HSE Mid West Community Healthcare we are recruiting suitably qualified Health Care Support Assistants (HCSAs). Working as a HCSA (formerly known as a Home Help) with the HSE could prove to be your launch pad into a long-term, secure career in healthcare. Successful candidates will work in the Home Support Service, a community-based model of care, which supports older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible. In partnership with service users and their families, the 7-day service provides support with activities for daily living and is primarily available to people aged 65 or over.

Qualifications Required are:

This property is located in Moore Bay Holiday Village which is a popular development of 3 bedroom holiday homes, situated in the seaside resort of Kilkee, within 5 minutes walk of the beach.

Residents of this development also have the use of a private children’s playground area & tennis court.

This fabulous 3 bedroom property is presented in excellent condition throughout.

Accommodation is deceivingly spacious comprising an open plan kitchen/living/dining area, 3 bedrooms (1 of which is ensuite) and a bathroom.

Contact: Danielle O’Connor

SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON

Tel: 065 686 7866

PSL 001212

Skehanagh is a charming three-bedroom detached bungalow. This family home offers an abundance of living space set on a 0.51-acre approx. site and located within a two-minute drive of the M18 motorway and eight minutes approx. from Ennis town centre. Built in the late 1970’s, this home is in good decorative order throughout.

The accommodation comprises a tiled entrance hall which grants immediate access to the living room, located to the front of the property. The living room is complete with carpet flooring and a feature solid fuel fireplace. To the rear of the property there is a spacious dining room with a second solid fuel fireplace, accompanied by the rear aspect minimalistic kitchen.

Contact: Diarmuid McMahon

SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON

Tel: 065 686 7866

PSL 001212

20 Dun na Manach is an immaculately presented three-bedroom semi-detached property overlooking the green. The property comes to market in excellent condition throughout. Ideally located within walking distance of Quin village and all local amenities. Situated in an established residential development consisting of 49 houses.

Built in 2006, the property has been tastefully maintained by its current owners over the last few years to give it an attractive, modern feel. On entering the main entrance hallway, the quality tiled flooring leads to an equally stunning main reception room where a feature solid fuel fireplace, solid oak timber flooring and a large front aspect bay window provide an unexcelled ambiance of comfort and homely feel. On leaving the main reception the hallway also leads to a bright spacious open plan kitchen/dining room with quality fitted wall and base units and integrated appliances.

Contact: Jason Pyne

SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON

Tel: 065 686 7866 PSL 001212

20 DUN NA MANACH QUIN CO. CLARE €180,000 €229,000 €240,000

Áine & Aideen carry the county's hopes for Irish Open

by Seamus Hayes

THOUSANDS of golf followers will descend on Dromoland Castle this weekend to witness many of the game’s leading female golfers compete for the Irish ladies open title with locals backing Clare duo Aideen Walsh and Áine Donegan.

Amongst the participants will be two young Ennis ladies who have been climbing up the golf ladder during the past year.

Good friends Aideen Walsh and Aine Donegan started playing golf with the junior section at Woodstock Golf Club and speaking to The Clare Echo ahead of the eagerly awaited Irish open, they both fondly recalled their involvement in the junior section at Woodstock.

“Both my parents and my older brother played and I only live across the road from the Woodstock club. Everyone came here during the summer, James Meade was down here doing wonderful work when we were both juniors, everyone in the estate played. Anne Marie (Russell, the golf club manager) was here, James Meade was brilliant with the juniors and that work is continuing under Ross Darmody and his team,” Áine explained.

Aideen recounted, “James Meade had an open night here maybe fifteen years ago. My brother went up to join up and once I saw him play I was mad keen then, I was the first

ever junior girl member here in Woodstock. I played loads of different sports but I knew after a few years that golf was the one I was going to take to the next level”.

Experience of playing in the competition last year will stand to Aideen. “I am lucky enough to be based at home and I was very grateful to Dromoland for the invite to play last year and they have done the same this year. I really enjoyed playing in the event last year, there probably were a lot of nerves. This year I want to go and enjoy it. I did very well last year and did myself proud and I am just going to try and do the same this year. This season I did my first full international schedule. The start of the year was really busy. The summer has been kind of quiet but I am just back from a tournament in Manchester. There is always something to play for”.

On the other hand, Áine will be teeing off in The Irish Open for the first time. “I was away last year and lucky for me they changed the date and I don’t have to go back to college for another week or two. I can’t wait for this. I have had a great summer, I have been in good form and the target is to continue the form. Thankfully, I have had a few weeks off and I can’t wait to get started now”.

Having The Irish Open in Co Clare for a successive year is a big plus. “As I have got older I have realised how good the golf is in

Clare with the likes of Doonbeg, Lahinch and Dromoland. We are very lucky in this county to have a lot of good golf courses and then the junior programmes, like what’s here in Woodstock. Not many people from the same club progress into Irish teams and into elite amateur golf. It shows that they are doing something right here in Woodstock and it wouldn’t surprise me if another person comes from Woodstock and turns out to be very good”, Áine admitted.

Both girls have been part of Irish senior lady cup winning teams with Lahinch. “Aine has been a member there since she was a kid, I applied seven years ago and was lucky enough to get in. For me it certainly has brought my game on because I wasn’t on any international panels, Aine would have been. Playing golf with the top ladies there, we have a great panel and we have won three senior cups”, outlined Aideen.

A business student at Louisiana State University, Áine said that she is likely to try break into the professional ranks when her studies conclude. “I have two years left in college and will probably give rhe Pro game a go after that. I always said I might not but playing in the US Open this year made me realise that I have to give it a go. I will be going into my third year in college now. Golf is huge in college in the US, when I get back we are going off to Charleston for our first tournament”.

Teaching in Ennis along with golfing is worthwhile for Aideen. “I am one of the few remaining working amateurs in golf in Ireland and I am very happy to still teach and play amateur golf, I love my job as an amateur and as a teacher. I want to try and play for Ireland, I love that,” said Aideen who has done most of her teaching at Scoil Chriost Ri in Cloughleigh. “I am not sure yet what I am going to do this year. I have a couple of tournaments left and we will see then”.

Playing in front of a home crowd is an experience to savour. “I suppose it will bring a little bit of added pressure, it just depends on whether or not you like people watching you. I do, but you would be hoping that you wouldn’t mess up. It’s very rare that you get to play in such a big event in front of a home crowd in any sport. I think it will be great,” commented Áine.

“Dromoland is a lovely course. I am always playing there. I do a lot of my practice there after school as my coach is based there. I am ready to go this week”, Aideen remarked.

There is no doubt but that Clare golf fans will be cheering on both Áine and Aideen this week as they compete alongside many of the leading professional lady golfers in the world and all are confident that the Clare duo will again do themselves, their families and all in the local golf scene proud.

see our unique

Shannon MD/Clare County Council is delighted to support this unique Fes�val which is a celebra�on for the community and we wish to acknowledge the co-opera�on and assistance of the community and residents

Aideen Walsh and Áine Donegan in Woodstock

Photo by John Mangan

Leona wants to give strong home support plenty of reasons to cheer

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LEONA MAGUIRE is the home favourite for the KPMG Women’s Irish Open which returns to Dromoland Castle this week and she’s determined to give the strong support “as much to cheer about as possible”.

Twenty eight year old Leona is the runaway favourite to claim the title in the twenty first Ladies European Tour event of the season. Speaking in Dromoland on Tuesday, Leona admitted that the triumphant return of the Women’s Irish Open in 2022 after a ten-year hiatus was “a big learning experience”.

She told The Clare Echo, “It is always special to come home, you’re trying to do as well as you can, there’s a lot of demands on my time and you’re trying to give everyone as much time as you can, there’s a lot of things to juggle this week and that was a big learning experience for me last year but at the same time you’re so appreciative for everyone following and people coming out saying they’ve been following me for the last ten or fifteen years, people go out of their way to get tickets and come here to watch so you want to do as well as you can for them”.

For women’s golf in Ireland, the return of the tournament to the European Tour is “huge,” she acknowledged. “The crowds were amazing last year and everyone was really excited to have this tournament back on the schedule, I remember last year a lot of the LET girls said it almost felt like a major with the crowds. Everyone is really excited to be here, that is the general feel of this week, the people

in Dromoland are excited to have us and the players are excited to be here, it’s a win win for everyone. It’s nice that so many Irish amateurs will have the chance to play here, I was fortunate to play in the Irish Open as an amateur, it is a huge learning experience”.

Seven Irish amateurs including Ennis duo Áine Donegan and Aideen Walsh will join Leona in bidding to win The Irish Open. “Hopefully they enjoy the week and don’t put too much pressure on themselves, they will have lots of friends and family watching them, it’s great to see so many coming up through the ranks”.

Expectations on Leona’s shoulders are bigger when it comes to home tournaments. “You treat it like any other week and prepare as best you can to try play as well as you can, I try to play well every week and this week is no different. It is an added bonus this week in that you have some extra people cheering for you and clapping when you hit a good shot so hopefully I can give them as much to cheer about as possible”.

Alterations to the course in Dromoland are a plus, the Cavan native said. She visited the Cliffs of Moher this week but the Irish Open is her first return to Clare since last year’s tournament where she finished joint fourth. “There’s a few new tees on eleven, twelve and sixteen is different, any of the changes are really good, they have improved the golf course, it’s nice to see them investing in the course and trying to make the event better”.

She explained, “You see a lot more from some of the tee shots, eleven is a nice angle,

on sixteen you can actually see the fairway now as opposed to it being a blind tee shot, it is more of a distance thing, I think the course is in great shape, the bunkers are tidy and is a really good golf course and you can tell they have invested money into it, it’s nice when the golf comes together like that”.

Last year, Leona became the first Irish woman to win on the LPGA Tour and this year she her second victory on the LPGA Tour by winning the Meijer LPGA Classic. When you win you get to time your schedule a bit more and take a few more weeks off, get more rest and be fresher. The way my season has panned out the rest season is a bonus, I’m really happy with my season so far”.

Leona is hopeful The Irish Open will be an experience to remember for both supporters and golfers. “The crowds were fantastic last year, hopefully the weather is kind to us and there will be as many people out this week, I’ve seen the advertising everywhere on social media over the last few months so hopefully there will be a lot of people out. It doesn’t seem so long ago since I was going to Irish Opens and Solheim Cups looking for my ball to be signed and to have my picture taken, it is still a bit surreal when you have the opposite happening now and people looking to get things signed. It is one thing to see an event like this on TV but to see it in real life is another thing and they are the memories which stay with you, to see someone hit a drive off the tee or hole a big putter, it is nice that young and old fans will get to experience that this week in the flesh”.

Leona Maguire teeing off in front of the iconic Dromoland Castle during the 2022 Irish Open

Photo by Joe Buckley

Klára clinging to Dromoland comforts as she bids to retain Irish Open title

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

REIGNING WOMEN’S Irish Open Champion Klára Spilková has said it would be “amazing” to retain the title.

Klára returns to Co Clare for the first time since walking away victorious at last year’s Irish Open when she won her second LET, prevailing in a playoff over Dane Nicole Broch Estrup and Finland’s Ursula Wikström in dramatic fashion after making an incredible up-anddown par save on 17 whilst ankle deep in the hazard.

Returning to Dro moland Castle has lifted the spirits of the Czech Republic professional. “I was on the back nine to day and it was like a flashback, I remember every single shot, I was almost getting emotional out there, it is nice to be back, I’ve all these amaz ing memories, the course is in great shape, everybody is very friendly and hospitable”.

30,000 people attended the 2022 event and such a figure would be broadly

welcomed again. “I’m very excited, it will be very nice to go out there and do my best in front of the Irish fans and Irish people because they know golf and the sport which is amazing how they value it, I’m excited to go out there and play”.

“The thing about Irish fans is that they

Marquee groupings for Ennis duo

much pressure on myself and just try my best”.

Recalling her journey to victory last September, the twenty eight year old recounted, “Some of the holes are pretty tricky, it was just accepting the way it was and staying strong mentally in the play/off between the three of us, I stayed strong and felt it was there for me and it was. Hit good shots, stay strong mentally and try to enjoy it as much

She continued, “The third round wasn’t the greatest, I didn’t play really well but I remember making a birdie on the sixth and that is where everything felt good again, I stayed in the moment even the shot in the water, there is a lot of water there this year, I remember being very present and enjoying every moment, trying to hit good shots”.

Her famous shot on the seventeenth hole saw her take her shoes and socks off to shoot from the mud. “The mud wasn’t cold, it was just gross. I wanted to hit somewhere on the green and maybe eagle or birdie the last hole, I got to make par which was really good and I had to make a birdie on the last hole and I did. I’ll never forget it”.

To date this year, she has recorded seven top ten finishes which has boosted her confidence. “I’m feeling really good, I know I can win again which is great, it has been a pretty long year but very busy especially this summer stretch, I’m starting to feel it men-

& Aideen in Irish Open

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Áine

ENNIS’ Áine Donegan has been grouped with star attraction Leona Maguire and defending champion Klára Spilková for the opening rounds of the KMPG Women’s Irish Open which tees off in Dromoland Castle on Thursday morning.

126 players from 28 nations will hit the fairways in the 72-hole stroke play tournament with a prize fund of €400,000.

Teeing off at 09:06 on the tenth on day one, the trio will return to the first tee on Friday at 13:46 and are sure to take a large portion of the crowds which are hoping to match the 30,000 which attended the event in Newmarket-on-Fergus last year.

Donegan made her mark at Pebble Beach in July competing in the Women’s Irish Open. World number seventeen Maguire will be hoping to improve on her performance from last year where she produced rounds of 67-75-6568 at Dromoland Castle.

Aideen Walsh carried the Clare flag last year and she joins Swedish duo Johanna Gustavsson and Solheim Cup stalwart Caroline Hedwall in their grouping. They tee off at 13:36 in round one, and at 09:06 in round two.

Kirkistown Castle amateur and Arizona State University student Beth Coulter will have the honour of getting the tournament underway when she takes to the first tee at 08:00 on Thursday alongside Scotland’s Jane Turner and Isle of Mann native Ana Dawson, whilst simultaneously, Douglas amateur and University of Miami student Sara Byrne will get play underway on the tenth in the company of American Gurleen Kaur and England’s Florentyna Parker.

Klára Spilková celebrates at the KPMG Women's Irish Open in 2022

Photo by Mark Runnacles/ LET)

Enda Kelly wins President's Prize in Shannon

by Seamus Hayes

President Aidan Mannix’ prize was played for at Shannon last weekend when there was a very big turnout.

Enda Kelly (12) emerged as the winner with 67 and he won on a countback from Eoin O’Donoghue (14) with third spot filled by Tony O’Farrell (13) with 68 which was also the score returned by fourth placed James

points.

Meanwhile the club’s mixed foursomes team has progressed to the All-Ireland semi-final thanks to a 3.5 to 1.5 victory over Gowran Park last weekend.

The team pairings on the day were David Richardson and Carmel Regan; Toddy Nelson and Aine Twomey; William O’Brien and Michelle Pyke; Mick Keyes and Suzanne McMahon, Fintan Ward and Jane Kennedy.

Woodstock Golf Club:

Last week’s open singles at Woodstock was won by Brian Mulcahy (19) with 44 points. He had four to spare over Mike Liddy (20) with third spot filled by Gerry Molyneaux (18) from Mitchelstown with 39 points. Mark Sweeney (9) win the gross with 32 points.

Declan Reidy (9) was the winner of the August medal at Woodstock at the weekend with 67 while Brian Gilligan (scratch) won the gross with 73.

The category 1 winner was Kieran Crosby (10) with 69 from Mark McInerney (10) with 70. Category 2 was won by Kieran Dromey (11) with 67 from Sean Williams (18) with 70 while category 3 was won by Michael Coughlan (24) with 71

There will be an open singles on this Thursday while the competition for the weekend will be a club singles.

Lahinch Golf Club:

hinch with a handicap Index of 9.5 but not higher than 18.4 index will have a separate stableford competition to run in conjunction with the gross competition.

The presentation of prizes will take place after the golf on Saturday September 9th. Kilrush Golf Club:

Martin P. Brennan (22) was the winner of the AON Physiotherapy prize at Kilrush at the weekend with 40 points. He had one to spare over Derek Garvey (13) while the category winners were Brian Scanlan (11) with 37 points, Colm Fitzpatrick (16) with 36 points and Gerard McInerney (23), also with 36 points.

The ladies played for the West Clare Physical Therapy prize and the winner was Ailish Lorigan (20) with 36 points from Mary McCarthy (30) with 35 points and Mary Downes (32) with 34 points.

The category winners were Margaret Donnelly (20) with 34 points, Mary O'Sullivan (29) with 33 points and Bernie Tubridy (43) with 26 points

East Clare Golf Club:

weekend with 71. He won by three from Joe Moran (4) with Tom Deveney (7) a stroke further back in third place. Alan Minogue won the nett with 70.

In the intermediate scratch cup, sponsored by Gillane’s, Gort, the winner was Alan Fogarty (16) with 78 from Martin Flaherty (15) with 80 with third spot filled by Barry McMahon (14) with 83. The nett was won by Robin Lahiffe (15) with 71.

In the minor scratch cup sponsored by Hennelly's Bar, Gort the winner was Tom Costello (20) with 85 from Declan Flaherty (21) with 89 with third spot filled by John Neylon (20) with 91. The nett was won by Mark Kavanagh (21) with 71. Meanwhile the Friday open 18 hole singles stableford sponsored by Ward and Burke was won by Brendan Hanniffy (18) with 35 points.

Morrissey (16).

Fifth place was filled by Anthony Tully (25) with 69. Dave Richardson (5) won the gross with 72.

Darragh Lohan (6) was the winner of category A with 71 from Keith Buckley (7) with 72. The category B winner was Brendan O’Brien (17) with 69 with second spot in this category filled by David Ruschitzko (15) who also had 69.

Michael Wall (26) won category C with 69 from David Lenihan (22), also with 69.

Kevin Hehir senior (17) won the past president’s category with 73 while the guests section was won by Gary Purtill (10) with 37

The Lahinch men’s club championship (John Burke Trophy), will take place on this Saturday and Sunday, September 2 and 3.

The lowest 21 handicap players will play off the blue tees and all other members will play off the white tees.

The Greg Young Memorial trophy is a seniors tournament open to Lahinch senior members and 30 friends and the tournament will take place on Friday and Saturday, September 8 and 9.

Participants will play on the Castle course on Friday and on the championship course on Saturday and they must have a handicap index of 9.4 or lower. Senior Members of La-

The East Clare ladies Wednesday away competition in Adare was won by Eileen Donnellan, Terry Mulvihil and Kay Grimes with 62 points and they won on a countback from Mary Brennan, Maureen Clune and Mary Stritch who had a similar score. In third place with 60 points were Mary Hogan, Catherine Murphy and Ann Harte.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Danny Minogue, Paul Husband and Michael Heffernan from Chris Davis, Richard Keating and Paddy O Brien with third spot filled by Pat Duggan, Brendan Moloney and Ted Harrington.

The course will be closed next Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to facilitate work on the greens while there will be no men's open day on Thursday.

Gort Golf Club: Gavin Lally (3) was the winner of the Permanent TSB junior scratch cup at Gort last

In the women's: All-Ireland fundraiser classic the winners were Brian Monaghan, Pat Corcoran, John O Connor and Tommy Foy with 96 points. Second spot was filled by Tommy O Donnell, Declan Flaherty, John Commins and Robin Lahiffe with 89 points and they were followed by Vincent Sherlock, D Sherlock, Tony McMahon and David Mulligan with a similar score. In fourth spot, also with 89 points were John and Patricia Skehill, Pat and Anne Marie Cradock and they were followed by Gerry O Donnell, Kevin Mulkerrins, Chris Fahy and Pat Fogarty with a similar total.

Sixth place was filled by Petra O Connor, Louise Butler, John O Connor and Kyle MacFarlane with 87 points which was also the score returned by Frank Higgins, Vincent Mullins, John Fordham and Joe Cooney. In eighth place with 85 points were John O Connor, Kris Finnegan, Petra O Connor and Niall Hoarty followed by Tom and Teresa Helebert, Michael and Margaret McMahon with 84 points.

Enda Kelly winner of the President’s Prize with Nina and Aidan Mannix Photo by Joe Buckley

Great golf and new food offering in Ennis Golf Club

Ennis Golf Club is an immaculately manicured 18-hole, par 70 parkland course situated on the outskirts of Ennis Town. Its tree-lined fairways and tight greens present a considerable challenge, while its relatively even terrain of 5,724m makes it an ideal course for the holiday and society golfer. Visitor tee-times bookings can be made online at www.ennisgolfclub.ie . For Society & Classic bookings email info@ennisgolfclub.ie or call 065-6824074.

With various membership categories available, membership will give you access to a wide range of benefits, facilities and competitions. Ennis Golf Club is fully affiliated with Golf Ireland. Members and visitors can enjoy strong camaraderie and superb hospitality on and off the course.

The pro-shop offers a fine selection of golf equipment, apparel and accessories at competitive prices for both members and visitors. Top brands are available with the Ennis Golf Club logo, and the club-pro Martin Ward will be delighted to help you with your selection. There are complete sets of irons and woods available

for purchase and hire. Golf tuition is available by calling Martin the Pro-Shop. Caddy carts and golf buggies are also available for hire. The comfortable clubhouse includes a golf shop, ladies’ and gents’ locker rooms, bar and restaurant.

Gihan’s at Ennis Golf Club opens Tuesday – Sunday, visit www.ennisgolfclub.ie to view menu and opening hours. Extensive lunch menu with daily specials, main courses and sandwich options available. Enjoy Sunday lunch at Gihan’s which has splendid views overlooking the Course. Sunday Lunch offers great choices including our delicious roast specials. Booking in advance is advised. For more formal occasions, the restaurant can sit between 60-70 people depending on the set-up. It is the ideal venue for Christmas lunch / dinner parties, birthday parties, holy communions, christenings and confirmations. The restaurant is the perfect location for any private function requirements you may have. Group, party and finger food menus may be arranged by phoning 0656824074.

Lots to work on for Townies

CLARE SHC GROUP 4, ROUND 3

Éire Óg 4-15 Clarecastle 0-16

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

ÉIRE ÓG

Frees For: 13 (5/8)

Wides:10 (5/5)

Scores from Play: 4-10

Spread of Scorers: 7

Top Scorer: David Reidy (2-6

4f)

Own Puck-Outs won: 20 from 26 (77%)

REFEREE: Jim Hickey (Cratloe)

'Great spirit' of Mills sees off Bridge

CLARECASTLE

Frees For: 10 (5/5)

Wides: 11 (6/5)

Scores from Play: 0-13

Spread of Scorers: 10

Top Scorers: Oisin Whelan (0-3 2f), Killian McDermott (0-3)

Own Puck-Outs won: 13 from 29 (45%)

MANAGER COMMENT

Mattie Shannon, Éire Óg:

“We’re happy to be looking forward to a quarter-final again. I thought we’d a very good start and we also finished the first half well. The middle third of the game was frustrating to watch but it does leave us with lots to work on going into the next round.

“The goal is to get out of your group and there has been a bit of twist in things in other groups but thank God we’re still

there. We’ll need the four weeks to get the bodies right but it’s not a full break either as there’s football again next week and the next round two weeks' later so we’ve only really a week in between to get a couple of sessions in with the whole squad.

“We can only do our best and get the bodies right in order to stay in the championship as long as we can.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Eric Flynn, Clarecastle:

“We’re obviously disappointed to have not only lost but also be in the relegation play-offs. We knew that Éire Óg were a serous opposition but we had hoped to get off to a good start but they actually got the start that we needed.

"We are currently in a re-

STORY OF THE GAME

O’CALLAGHAN’S MILLS

Frees For: 12 (8/4)

Wides:11 (8/3)

Scores from Play: 3-11

Spread of Scorers: 9

Top Scorer: Colm Cleary (3-6 5f)

Own Puck-Outs won: 24 from 34 (71%)

building process but while it would have been easy to down tools after conceding three first half goals, I thought we showed a bit of spirit and were a bit better in the second half.

“We just have to dust ourselves down and go again now.”

Louis happy with resurgence

CLARE SHC GROUP 1, ROUND 4

Kilmaley 1-16 Inagh-Kilnamona 3-22

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

KILMALEY

Frees For: 6 (0/6)

Wides: 8 (4/4)

Scores from Play: 0-13

Spread of Scorers: 6

Top Scorer: Mikey O’Malley (1-7 1’Pen 2f 1’65)

Own Puck-Outs won: 19 from 36 (53%)

INAGH/KILNAMONA

Frees For: 12 (5/7)

Wides:13 (5/8)

Scores from Play: 3-16

Spread of Scorers: 8

Top Scorer: Aidan McCarthy (0-10 7f 1’65)

Own Puck-Outs won: 13 from 27 (48%)

REFEREE: Kevin Corry (Sixmilebridge)

MANAGER COMMENT “

“It was good today and it had to be. I knew the quality I had seen in training all year but we failed to show that in the first two games but the heart, determination and skill levels came to the surface today so I’m obviously happy with that.

“We had a good first half with the wind and we need to put up a big score because the only hope we had in the competition was to win by at least nine points. The rest is up to Scariff unfortunate-ly as we need them to do us a favour or two.

“There was a huge difference today in terms of performance and Aidan McCarthy’s return provided a more serious threat that put a bit of fear into Kilmaley when they saw him getting the ball. What I liked about today was a few older players today stood up and it helped the younger ones to push on. Today

I had 12 or 13 lads performing whereas the last day I had only two or three so that’s the difference.

“We didn’t have the work-rate against Scariff and they turned us over and got the goals but in contrast today we kept out the goals and went for the jugular at the other end.

“So I was happy with the team spirit today and the club is heading in the right direction again. It took me a little bit of time to be honest but I liked what I saw today.”

“It was a total trimming. The scoreboard probably flattered us a little bit because I thought that we were beaten throughout. In

fairness they [Inagh-Kilnamona] were excellent. They fought harder than us and got the scores to put us under huge pressure.

“I thought that we were really up for it but now I’m just really disappointed with the way we performed for the hour.

“We had hoped to even get a head of steam up in the second half [with the aid of the wind] but It never happened. We didn’t raise any gallop at all so it wasn’t really a contest at all. The only sav-ing grace is that we have another game in two weeks time and that’s what we have to turn our focus to straight away as we have the opportunity

to right a wrong.

“Training over the last month had been going really really well so we didn’t feel that we’d lost our momentum [from a perfect start of two wins] until we went out today. Every team in this group has a break at some point so I don’t think that we can use the bye as an excuse.

“Normally after a defeat like this, you could have to wait twelve months to turn this around but we have only two weeks so that’s great. We’ve all seen what Scariff have done this year as they’ve had some really good performances so it will be a massive game in two weeks' time."

SIXMILEBRIDGE

Frees For: 13 (5/8)

Wides: 10 (1/9)

Scores from Play: 1-14

Spread of Scorers: 9

Top Scorers: Cathal Malone, Alex Morey (0-6 6f)

Own Puck-Outs won: 24 from 30 (80%)

REFEREE: John Bugler (Whitegate)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Paul Keane, O'Callaghan's Mills:

“A win was great but we had a target to meet in terms of scoring difference and ultimately the extent of our defeat to Crusheen cost us in the end. That said, it was good to see the fight and the performance from our lads.

“Look, we showed great character in both halves to come back at the ‘Bridge. I mean we went 1-4 to 0-0 down early on and just weren’t working hard enough so when we did start to work, we clawed it back to go in level by half-time. They [Sixmilebridge] kicked on again in the second half to go four points clear again near the finish but our lads showed great spirit again and never gave up and that was rewarded in getting over the line in the end.

“It was a dramatic finish, Gary [Cooney] and Colm [Cleary] worked tremendously hard inside there and got the winning goal. Unfortunately, it looks like we’re in the relegation so obviously that’s disappointing.

“We’ve four weeks to push on again. We responded very well in training after the Crusheen de-feat so we need another list now in order to display the best version of ourselves in that relega-tion final. We know that we;’re good enough so the most important thing is that we are senior next year because we know that we are good enough to compete against the big teams.”

“That was a fairly big blow to us and we’re not quite sure what it means but regardless of what our next match is, it will be difficult to pick things up for us again.

“A lot of home truth came to the surface this evening because with all due respect to the Mills, they are not quite championship contenders yet anyway so they are arguably bigger fish to fry in this championship but we didn’t appear able to step up. I mean did we play to our capacity? We probably did but it’s clearly not good enough. We played great bouts of hurling and in fairness there were some great scores got but we also had a hat of goal chances that we missed whereas they {O’Callaghan’s Mills] got three goal chances and had the patience to work it into the perfect position to score. We tried to blow the net off with ours but failed to finish them off.

“Both teams were fighting for their lives out there this evening. We dominated the first quarter and looked by far the best team but they clawed their way back in to level the game. We wonder how that happened but to be honest we were beaten for a bit of mobility in too many areas so that’s very worrying.

“It’s going to be a job to pick these lads up because they’re fair disappointed. We’ve a month now until our next game so hopefully time will be a healer as we simply have to regroup and re-spond now”.

l Aaron Hayes, Eoghan Wallace and Lee Brack are unable to stop Shane O’Donnell

Louis Mulqueen, Inagh-Kilnamona:

l Mikey O’Neill is surrounded by Keelan Guyler and David Fitzgerald Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Conor McMahon, Kilmaley Selector:

CLARE SHC GROUP 2, ROUND 3

O'Callaghan's Mills 3-17 Sixmilebridge 1-21 Venue: Clarecastle Compiled by Eoin Brennan

Sean Stack, Sicmilbridge-:

A crushing Crusheen defeat

A 'warrior' - Duggan leads way

CLARE SHC GROUP 3, ROUND 3

Clooney-Quin 3-12 Cratloe 0-13

Venue: O'Garney Park, Sixmilebridge

Compiled by Peter O'Connell

STORY OF THE GAME

CLOONEY/QUIN:

Frees for: 13 (7/6)

Wides: 6

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 4-7

Top scorer: Peter Duggan (2-6 5f 1’Pen)

Bookings: None

Own puck outs: 21 from 29 (72%)

CRATLOE:

Frees for: 17

Wides: 12

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 0-6

Top scorer: Rian Considine (0-8 4f 3’65)

Bookings: Diarmuid Ryan

Own puck outs: 15 from 25 (66%)

REFEREE: Niall Malone (Éire Óg)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Tommy Corbett, Clooney-Quin:

“We would have liked to have got the job done the last day but we were beaten by on the day by a better Newmarket team. We knew we were up against it today with a really experienced Cratloe team. We felt that we may have the legs on them but we needed to work hard.

CLARE SHC GROUP 2, ROUND 3

Clonlara 0-22 Crusheen 1-10

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLONLARA:

Frees For: 12 (8/4)

Wides: 11 (5/6)

Scores from play: 0-16

Spread of scorers: 8

Own puckouts won: 14 out of 18 (78%)

Bookings: Dylan McMahon (42); Colm O’Meara (48), David Fitzgerald (62)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Donal Madden, Clonlara:

CRUSHEEN Frees For: 11 (5/6)

Wides: 7 (2/5)

Scores from play: 1-5

Spread of scorers: 5

Own puckouts won: 18 out of 29 (62%)

Bookings; Jamie Fitgibbon (23); Tadhg Dean (53); Donal Tuohy (58); Red Card: Oisin O’Donnell (62)

REFEREE: Chris Maguire (Wolfetones)

“We worked really, really hard in the first half but there are still aspects of our performance that we are not happy with but we battled it out. Different guys are stepping up at different times and its fantastic to see that. We are in a championship quarter final and we await now to see who we will be playing and hopefully step it up again. We can enjoy tonight”.

“In the first half we were so far off the pace it was

almost embarrassing to be honest. We were second to every ball, even the ones we got to first, we fumbled them. We don’t deserve to progress given the way we played. We did show a small bit of heart in the second half and we showed a small bit of what we are able to do. We made some bit of a shape in the second half... Clonlara were all over us and they looked as if they had about 17 on the field."

“I think we got the breaks at vital times particularly in the first half. I think we set the foundations then. When you have Peter Duggan inside full forward you always have a chance of getting goals and he was superb today. Peter has been sick for two or three days. He has been bed ridden. We didn’t know if we’d have him today. There was nothing going to stop him playing and he put in some performance. He’s our captain and a warrior”.

'Sendings off took sting out of game'

CLARE SHC GROUP 3, ROUND 3

Newmarket-on-Fergus 3-17 Wolfe Tones 0-18

Venue: Clarecastle

Compiled by Seamus Hayes

MANAGER COMMENT

Tomas Ryan, Newmarket-on-Fergus:

“When it was 15 on 15 there was nothing in the game, very even. We knew they were going to come with a fight, it’s never an easy game with them. They put up a great fight but the sendings off took the sting out of the game and it was easy for us in the end because of that. Because of the fact we were already qualified we didn’t think it would be hard to get lads focused but it obviously was. We started very slow. We did treat it like a normal championship match but I suppose it's always in the back of your mind that you are through and top of the group.

“We would be disappointed with aspects of the game and we have four weeks now to work on it. Colin Ryan is such an asset to us and his experience did show when he was introduced. It’s a new competition now, a lot can change in four weeks. We will knuckle down and work hard for four weeks and see where it will go”

Conor Dolan, Wolfe Tones:

“Eighteen minutes gone in the second half and we were two points up. We had double figures in wides, we

STORY OF THE GAME

NEWMARKET

Frees For: 16 (8/8)

Wides: 14 (8/6)

Scores from play: 3-8

Spread of scorers: 9

Top scorer: Peter Power

(0-6 6f)

Own puckouts won: 22 out of 31 (71%)

Bookings: Eoin Guilfoyle (58)

WOLFE TONES Frees For: 12 (6/6)

Wides: 13 (9/4)

Scores from play: 0-11

Spread of scorers: 7

Top scorer: Cian O’Rourke

(0-11 7f)

Own puckouts won: 24 out of 34 (71%)

Red Cards: John Guilfoyle (55), Liam Murphy (60)

REFEREE: Joe Mullins (Clonlara)

were creating the chances which is a massive positive. For John Guilfoyle to get sent off in the manner he did with a guy coming into the pitch, it's mind boggling. The second sending off was a bit harsh in my eyes also.

"These guys have massive pride in the jersey of the club they represent and I wouldn’t expect anything less from them. They have been training well, we have let ourselves down in the first two games against Clooney/ Quin and Cratloe but they had an awful lot of pride to play for in this derby game. They fought with their boots on. They are a proud senior club and I have no doubt they will stay up”.

l Donal Tuohy makes a save to deny Cian Moriarty

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Michael Browne, Crusheen:

l Colin Guilfoyle tussles with Aaron Cunningham

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Conor McGrath and O’SullivanDonagh

Photo by Ruth Griffin

Feakle blow hard to see out windy conditions

CLARE SHC GROUP 4, ROUND 3

Feakle 1-15 Broadford 1-10

Venue: O'Garney Park, Sixmilebridge

Compiled by Peter O'Connell

STORY OF THE GAME

FEAKLE:

Frees for: 12

Wides: 14

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 0-12

Top scorer: Shane McGrath (0-6 3f)

Bookings: Conn

Smyth, Oisin

Donnellan

Own puck outs: 16 from 23 (70%)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Oisin Donnellan, Feakle captain:

“It was a lot closer than five points, the wind had a big bearing on it. Broadford never gave up and it was down to the wire when the goal went in. We're delighted to get through to the quarter-final.

COROFIN SET WAY WITH WINS FOR BODYKE, RUAN, PARTEEN/ MEELICK, TULLA & BRIDGE

BROADFORD: Frees won: 15

Wides: 12

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 0-3

Top scorer: Niall O'Farrell (0-6 6f)

Bookings: Craig

Chaplin, Sean Phelan, Padraig Taylor

Own puck outs: 19 from 30 (65%)

REFEREE: Johnny Healy (Smith O'Brien's)

"The wind did have a big impact but you have to work hard when you're playing against it and try to use the ball well. It was very tough on the free takers but we're delighted to get through. At the start of the year it was all about getting over the first round.

"The last two years we were down in Senior B and we weren't happy with our performances. We have a big four weeks of work now to get ready for the next game. Today was knock out as well. If we didn't get a result we were gone”.

Confusion cleared up as Crusheen progress

Páraic McMahon

CRUSHEEN have qualified for the quarter-finals of the Clare senior hurling championship and Sixmilebridge have been eliminated from the race for the Canon Hamilton.

Initial confusion had led many punters to believe that The Bridge would qualify but updated rulings have knocked Sean Stack’s side out of the championship. In Cusack Park on Friday, Crusheen officials Kieran O’Donnell and Tony O’Donnell were quick to remind Clare GAA secretary Deirdre Chaplin that correspondence had been issued to clubs in advance of the final round with the updated rules.

Chairman of Clare GAA, Kieran Keating confirmed to The Clare Echo that their competition regulations were updated this year to fall in line with Croke Park guidelines.

He said if the update was not agreed then the rulings in Clare would have contradicted the official rulebook.

This means that in the scenario where more than two teams are level on points and scoring difference is to be used, it is the scoring difference from the games involving the teams that are level on points and not all games from the entire group.

Based on scoring difference of all games in Group 2 of the TUS Clare SHC, Sixmilebridge finished in second (-3), Crusheen were in third (-4) and O’Callaghans Mills (-8) were in fourth spot.

However, the picture changes when each club’s outings against Clonlara are removed from the equation with Crusheen moving to second (+5), Sixmilebridge (+2) into third and the Mills staying

'Air of disappointment' for Scariff in Ballyea draw

CLARE SHC GROUP 1, ROUND 4

Scariff 0-19 Ballyea 0-19

Venue: Dr Daly Park, Tulla Compiled by Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

SCARIFF

Frees For: 12 (7/5)

Wides: 7 (4/3)

Scores from play: 0-9

Spread of scorers: 4

in fourth (-7). Keating confirmed to The Clare Echo that there is no avenue for Sixmilebridge to make an appeal.

Crusheen's second round 3-16 0-16 win over O'Callaghans Mills largely proved to be their saving despite losing the first and final round of Group 2. For the Bridge, their final round loss to neighbours O'Callaghans Mills has been detrimental to their aspirations and sees them now enter the Senior B competition.

There had been further confusion subsequent to this with part IV of the rule suggesting that head to head be used between the Mills and the Bridge to determine which team would be in Senior B and which would enter the relegation. However, a meeting of the CCCC on Monday evening clarified that this suggestion was not applicable.

Top scorer: Mark Rodgers (0-13 9f 1SC)

Own puckouts won: 19 out of 26 (73%)

Bookings: None

end and I felt at half time that if we got a goal it may have been decisive. The young lads did stand up today and everything we worked on they stuck to it”.

BALLYEA

Frees For: 17 (8/9)

Wides: 7 (4/3)

Scores from play: 0-10

Spread of scorers: 5

Top scorer: Niall Deasy (0-8 8f)

Own puckouts won: 18 out of 26 (69%)

Bookings; Cathal O’Connor

REFEREE: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford)

MANAGER COMMENT “

“There is an air of disappointment that you could go toe to toe with the county champions who were fighting for their lives and come out with the result. When we look back on it we will probably be a little disappointed that we didn’t get the result as there were chances there in the second half. We have to be really proud of them for putting in a performance like that against the county champions. We tried to judge the wind but when you get out there in the heat of battle it’s going to cause trouble for both teams and it did today. Credit to Ballyea, they are not going for three in a row for nothing and you could see how up for it they were on the line. Maybe we hadn’t enough done to keep them at arms length. We were unlucky not to get a goal there at the

“We were hugely disappointed at half time, not so much with the scoreline but we felt we were handing them scores with the movement of ball through the lines and oor decision making. We felt that there were three or four points that we had handed over.

"There were some strong words at half time but the lads showed huge leadership in taking control in the second half. Our panel was tested with the loss of a number of players to injury in including Cathal O’Connor who has taken up Pearse’s (Lillis) role working hard back into the backs.

"Look, you have a panel for a reason, Brian Murphy and Gussie (Aonghus Keane) came on and young Fiachra Kirby came in and got a couple of scores, Wax (Fergal Guinnane) and Thomas Kelly they were incredible and then you had James Murphy, Stan and Gudgie hurled a storm in the second half. Look this team has been a long long journey and we would be disappointed not to show fight at every corner. That’s probably the proudest I have been of a Ballyea team in terms of the personnel we had today”.

Corofin’s Gearoid Kelly

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Mark McKenna, Scariff:

Kevin Sheehan, Ballyea coach

l Con Smyth, Oisin Clune and Enda Noonan battle it out for possession Photo by Gerard O'Neill by

paraic@clareecho.ie

Ennis Track fundraise for new home BACK TO

ENNIS Track Athletic Club is fundraising for a home for the club, with a Golf Team of three scramble taking place at Ennis Golf Club on Friday, September 22.

Sponsored by Considine Financial Planning, the event commences at 10am, and a team of four costs €120 to enter. For more information contact Alan Considine on 086 22 22 204 or Suzanne Deane on 086 81 33 901.

Pictured at the launch of the event is (from left) Colm Griffin – National Weight for distance Athlete, Rory Chesser National Steeplechase Champion, Alan Considine Event Organiser, Mark Hanrahan Irish International and National Champion , Rahel Akers World Champion Hammer Throw and Gabriel Kehinde Irish International 60M. Scan the QR code (right) for entry payment link.

Emma Healy tries to find her way past Kate O’Gorman Burren Eye Photography

COMMUNITY GAMES SUCCESS FOR CLARE YOUNGSTERS

ST FRANCIS Credit Union Clare

Community Games had fantastic success at the National Community Games Finals Track and Field Events on Saturday in SETU, Carlow.

They were represented by 66 in individual events and nine relay teams. Clare got four first placings, eight second placings, seven third and three fourth. They brought home a total of 44 medals.

RESULTS

GOLD

l Aisling Kelly, Ennis St John’s, U14 800m

l Promise Joloushu, Ennis St John’s, U16 200m

l Nicole Griffin, Ballynacally/Lissycasey, U12 600m

l Eoin Keane, Ennis St John’s, U12 Long Jump

SILVER

l Grainne Kennedy, Ennistymon/Lahinch/ Liscannor, U16 200m

l Ailbhe O’Neill, Ennis St John’s, U12 600m

l Rhys Cusack, Ennis St John’s, U12 200m

l Ruadhan Casey, Ennis St John’s, U14 100m

l Abbie Gallagher, Doonbeg, U12 100m

l Thomas O’Connor, Doora/Barefield, U16 High Jump

l U16 Boys Relay, Ennis St John’s, Matthew Basua, Promise Joloushu, James Rochford, Aidan O’Connell, Dylan Tierney

l U12 Boys Relay, Ennis St John’s, Rhys Cusack, Riain Duignan, Hugh Melody, Adam Rochford BRONZE

l Sophie Maher, Ballynacally/Lissycasey –U16 1500m

l Simon Farrell, Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tub-

ber – U16 1500m

l Sean Hick, Ballynacally/Lissycasey – U10 200m

l Orlaith O’Rourke, Ballynacally/Lissycasey – U10 200m

l Hollie Nagle, Ennis St John’s – U8 80m

l Simone Conaidine, Cooraclare/Cree –U14 100m

l U12 Mixed Relay, Ballynacally/Lissycasey – Clodagh Griffin, Michael Haugh, Sean Hick, Ryan Lynch, Orla Meere, Orlaith O’Rourke

FOURTH

l U14 Boys Relay, Ennis St John’s – Ruadhan Casey, Niall Crowe, Eric Mc Mahon, Conor O’Boyle, Stephen O’Neill

l U14 Girls Relay, Inch/Kilmaley/Connolly – Moira Maher, Caoimhe Mc Namara, Caoimhe Neylon, Rebecca Reid

l U12 Girls Relay, Ennis St John’s – Ember Gilligan, Susie Hussey, Caoimhe Monks, Ailbhe O’Neill.

GAELIC GAMES

Clare also had great success at the National Community Games Teams competitions in Carlow on Sunday. Clare was represented by two teams Ballynacally/Lissycasey U14 girls Gaelic Football and Crusheen/ Ballinruan/Tubber U11 Hurling team. Both teams did their area, county and Munster proud

with Ballynacally/Lissycasey bringing home the gold while Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tubber brought home the silver medals.

l Ballynacally/Lissycasey girls U14

Gaelic Football team - Megan Browne, Anna Donnelly, Chloe Donnelly, Leah Griffin, Emma Haugh, Aoibhin Keane, Chloe Kelly, Emma Kelly, Ciara Keogan, Caera Mc Mahon, Caoimhe Mc Mahon, Criodha Mc Mahon, Kayla O’Connor, Ciara O’Rourke, Noise Talty, Zoey Warren l Crusheen/ Ballinruan/Tubber U11 Hurling team. – Zaid Cheema, Oisin Collins, Darrragh Donnellan, Luke Hanrahan, Sean Hayes, Patrick Mulkere, Michael O’Reilly, C.J. O’Doherty, Cillian O’Donnell, Darragh O’Rourke, George Okonkow, John Scully, Cian Vaughan, Ryan Vaughan.

PICTURED: (right) 2023 Silver U16 Relay team, Ennis St John's; (below) Nicole Griffin, Gold medalist in the U12 600m and silver medal winner Ailbhe O'Neill; (below left) Ballynacally/Lissycasey U14 girls Gaelic Football side

Fast Fit Felix takes opener for Gort's Quinn

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

WINNERS from Kilmaley, Quilty, Kilmihil and Gort lifted the spirits of Clare greyhound followers in Galway over the past week.

The A1 graded third contest over 550 yards was the feature contest on Saturday night’s card at Galway Greyhound Stadium.

In race one, the John Quinn of Gort owned Fast Fit Felix took his career winning tally to nine wins in thirty three starts as he took the opener by three parts of a length from the staying on Piper Rock in 29.52. The winner and Blueway Best on the wide outside were both prominent on the run towards the opening bend before the latter took a narrow advantage entering the back straight. Racing between the final two bends Fast Fit Felix (Doratos Wildcat & Fast Fit Maeve) was back in front and swing off the home bend set Sail for home and although Piper Rock close near the Laine the result was never in doubt.

Rathkerry Anne owned by Kilmaley’s Rachel Hehir recorded her second career success in the A6 graded contest as having led early the daughter of Kinloch Brae and Baby Sugar took over a second time off the home been as she defeated Nationwide Fury by five lengths in 30.06. Away well the winner disputed the lead with Bumblebee Lottie and Shanakyle Blue racing towards the opening bend but between the final two bends Rathkerry Anne began two close again on the inner. Rounding the home turn Rathkerry Anne swept through to lead and quickly asserting drew clear for a deserved success. The winner is handled by Rachel’s uncle Johnny Maher.

In the concluding A3 graded contest Joeys Champ was away well in company with Hillstreet Puma and Bayview Fred and rounding the opening bend Joeys Champ shaded the issue just ahead of Hillstreet Puma and turning down the back they led Bayview Fred by three lengths. Exiting the back straight Joeys Champ still held the call but all the while the Eoin Clancy of Kilrush owned Bayview Fred was now closing with every stride. Rounding the home bend Bayview Fred swung wide to deliver his challenge which took him to the

front right on the line as the son of Premier Fantasy & Bayview Flyer prevailed by a length in 29.49.

Friday night’s Galway card was headlined by the concluding A2 graded 525 yards contest with the semi-finals of the GoGreyhoundracing.ie A4 Dual Distance Stake also down for decision over 550 Yards.

As the traps rose for the A2 graded finale Drombeg Apollo and Glynnscross Liz were best away and racing towards the opening bend Glynnscross Liz held a narrow advantage as Drombeg Apollo and Joeys Girl had a slight coming together. Racing down the back the Thomas Keane of Kilmihil owned Glynnscross Liz was making the best of her way home as Claudegreengrass tried to close in second place approaching the end of the back straight. From the crown of the home bend though Glynnscross Liz (Droopys Sydney & Glynnscrosstyler) began to draw clear again as she galloped to a length and a half success in 28.90.

The two semi-finals of the Jag Construction Novice 525 were down for decision on the Limerick Saturdays Nights Card. In the second semi, Tromora Swing made every inch of the running to secure victory for David Hogan of Quilty. Running from trap six, the 2/1 chance showed the superior early speed and he opened a sizable advantage heading into the back straight. A son of Ballmac Best and Tromora Champion, his stride shortened on the run for home as Velvet Fern finished strongly in behind, however, he kept just enough in reserve to see off the jolly. Just one length separating the duo, the time was 29.25.

Race four saw the Bar One Racing Laurels Trial Stake go down for decision and it was Newport Pier who secured the golden ticket, albeit by the shortest of margins. Running for the Mullins-Curtin-Syndicate of Gort, Newport Pier had some fine form around Galway but had been plying her trade over the marathon trips in recent months, reaching the final of the Corn Cuchullain in the process. Stepping back to the standard trip, she finished with a wet sail to snatch victory in the shadow of the post. In a time of 28.87.

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONAKILLA, BALLYNACALLY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE.

Take notice that Gerard Garry is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct an agricultural shed, haybarn and dungstead along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONAKILLA, BALLYNACALLY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE.

Take notice that Gerard Garry is applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct an agricultural shed, haybarn and dungstead along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BURRANE LOWER, KILLIMER CO. CLARE

Take notice that Michael & Stephen Grogan intend to apply for permission / retention permission for development, the retention permission consists of excavation works carried out on site, development consists of the construction of a milking parlour and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning

Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 19, 20 & 21 MAIN STREET, COROFIN, COUNTY CLARE.

Take notice that Mr Tom Howard and Ms Lilian Cassin are applying to Clare County Council for permission and for retention permission for development consisting of

1. Permission for change of use from commercial use to residential use at number 21 Main Street Corofin,

2. Retention permission to retain demolition of rear 2 storey extension, to retain alterations to façade and to retain construction of Dormer rooflight at the rear of number 21 Main Street Corofin,

3. Permission to construct new 2 storey extension on footprint of demolished 2 story extension to the rear of number 21 Main Steet, Corofin,

4. Retention permission to retain alterations to front and rear elevations to numbers 19 and 20 Main Street, Corofin, permission to retain new Dormer rooflight to rear of number 20 and permission to retain new Conservation Velux rooflights to the front and rear of number 19. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ROO EAST,

ARDNACRUSHA, CO CLARE

I, Jack Keogh, am applying to the above authority for Permission for the following development on property at Roo East, Ardnacrusha, Co Clare: Permission for the construction of a detached

single storey dwelling, detached domestic garage, new entrance, onsite wastewater treatment system, together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and 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 COORACLARE GAA FOOTBALL CLUB, CARHUE, COORACLARE, CO CLARE

“Take notice that Cooraclare GAA Football Club intend to apply to the Planning Authority for

1) permission to provide additional floor area on first floor including new rear access route and redesign of existing roof, elevations, and balcony

2) Relocate the existing referee’s room and public toilets to new building location adjacent to existing covered stand area

The planning authority may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five (5) weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Planning Authority”

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONMORE, BALLYNACALLY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Cormac Donnellan & Eveleen Glynn intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a dwelling house and garage with effluent treatment system, new entrance from public road and all associated site 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, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare 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

MICHAEL CUSACKS GAA CLUB, GORTACLARE, BELLHARBOUR, CO. CLARE. H91 E1H5.

Take notice that Michael Cusacks GAA Club, intend to apply for permission to construct a building with rooms for physical fitness and recreational sessions, connect to existing sewerage system and all other associated and ancillary site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 34, WILLSGROVE, CAHERCALLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. V95 KHN4 Take notice that Orla O’Connor intends to apply for permission to extend the existing dwelling & all other site and ancillary works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY

COUNCIL LAHINCH ROAD, ENNISTYMON, CO. CLARE. V95 K0F8

Take notice that Anna and Paul Ralph intend to apply for permission to retain the porch onto the front of the existing dwelling & all other site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL PARKDUFF, MULLAGH,CO. CLARE.V95 E628

Take notice that Paul O Connor intends to apply for permission to extend the existing dwelling & all other site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL EMLAGH, QUILTY CO. CLARE

Take notice that M. Flynn intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect dwelling house, foul sewer treatment plant and percolation area at the above address. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of

receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TULLIG, CROSS COUNTY CLARE

Take notice that M. B. Downes & V. Troy intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain existing ground levels, to reduce ground levels and to erect proposed machinery storage area at the above address.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

in the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL SMITHSTOWN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, SMITHSTOWN TLD. SHANNON, CO. CLARE

Take Notice that We Fortview Properties Ltd. intend to apply to Clare County Council for Permission for the construction of A Light Industrial Building consisting of Open Plan Warehouse, Offices, Toilet Facilities & Canteen. Also For permission for external yard areas, Loading Docks, car parking, proposed boundary fencing and connection to public services & to utilise entrance and car park areas previously approved under planning application P19-965 including ancillary site works at above address.

CLARE

COUNTY COUNCIL NOUGHAVAL DOORA, ENNIS CO. CLARE

Take Notice that I Brian Clancy intend to apply to Clare County Council For Permission for the Construction of a Dwellinghouse, Garage, Entrance & Proprietary Waste Treatment Plant including all ancillary site works at above address

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during it’s public opening hours. A submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 with-

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during it’s public opening hours. A submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Recent Deaths

GANNON (née McDonagh), Margaret Ennis Clare

McNamara, Micheal Clare

PESSOGNELLI, ENRICO Tulla Clare

TUCK(née Culligan), Mary Kilrush Clare

BURKE, Martin Quilty Clare

Ruttle, Gérard (Gerry) Ennis ,Clare

Carroll, Patrick (Pat) Newmarket-on-Fergus Clare

Keane, Michael Quin Clare

Keane, Michael Ennis Clare

Shannon, Sean Ennis Clare

SHAUGHNESSY, JOE Clare

Bradley (née Cotter), Tríona Kilmihil Clare

Howley, Alfie Kilfenora Clare

Keane, Donal Sixmilebridge Clare

Foley, Jerry (Dom)

Ennistymon Clare

Gleeson, Jacqueline Mary (Jacqui) Killaloe Clare

O’Brien, Desmond (Dessie) Clare

The Clare Echo Quiz

1 Christy Moore wrote the song “Lisdoonvarna” before he was to perform at the famous festival in what year?

A. 1983

B. 1989

C. 1991

2 When is Michael D. Higgins’ birthday?

A. December 19th

B. July 22nd

C. April 18th

3 What was the nickname given to Daniel O’ Connell?

A. The Emancipator

B. The Liberator

C. The Saviour

4 When was the current Loop Head lighthouse built?

A. 1854

B. 1889

C. 1840

5

Which Saint is associated with Scattery Island?

A. St. Anthony

B. St. Brendan

C. St. Senan

6 Johnny Doran was a famous Uillean Piper said to have inspired Willie Clancy and Martin Talty. Where is Johnny Doran’s stone located?

A. Kilrush

B. Miltown Malbay

C. Ballynacally

7 Marty Morrisey is from Quilty, but where was he born?

A. London

B. Mallow

C. New York

8

In 1947, Shannon Airport became the first in the world to have what.

A. Duty Free

B. Airport Security

C. Airport Terminals

9

Which of these do not appear on the Clare coat of arms?

A. A Flower

B. A Horse

C. A Crown

10 Ennistymon is well known for which geographical feature?

A. Mountains

B. Cascades

C. Lakes

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the 7 differences

10. Cascades

9. A Horse

8. Duty Free

7. Mallow

6. Ballynacally

Last weeks answers

. Boots different colour Lissycasey

. Ennistymon crest missing on shorts

. Ennistymon crest missing on jersey

. letter missing in background

5. St. Senan

4. 1854

3. The Liberator

2. April 18th

1. 1983

. O missing in O’neills

. Crest missing on Lissycasey shorts

. Line missing on Lissycasey jesrsey (left)

Leona Maguire teeing off in front of the iconic Dromoland Castle during the 2022 Irish Open

Photo by Joe Buckley

l When is Michael D. Higgins’ birthday?

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES Aug 31st

WORD SEARCH

HOW TO PLAY

Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.

The Clare Echo Crossword

DOWN

1 Husband or wife (6)

2 Ruled (7)

3 Receiver of stolen goods (5)

5 Not artificial (7)

6 Permit (5)

7 Despot (6)

9 Make germ-free (9)

13 Emblem of royalty (7)

14 Marine animal (3,4)

15 Pursues (6)

16 Greek capital (6)

18 Kingdom (5)

20 Excellent (5)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS