Clare Echo April 26

26 Apr 2018

50 YEAR SPECIAL CELEBRATION EDITION

YEAR

MAKE MODEL VARIANT

2017 2017 2017 2017 2016 2016 2016 2016 2016 2015

Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan Renault Nissan

Juke Note Note Qashqai Juke Micra Qashqai Qashqai Capture Juke

1.5 DSL XE 1.5 DSL SV 1.2 PET SV 1.5 DSL SV 1.2 PET SV 1.2 PET SV 1.2 SV 1.5 DSL SV 1.5 DSL Life 1.5 DSL XE

2015 2015 2015 2015

Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan

Juke Micra Note Note

1.5 DSL SV 1.0 SV 5dr 1.5 DSL SV Sport 1.2 SV

COLOUR Grey Ink Blue White White Ink Blue, White Grey Grey Silver Bronze Magnetic Red, Black Silver Silver Black Red

YEAR

MAKE MODEL VARIANT

2015 2015 2015 2015

Nissan Nissan Nissan Nissan

Pulsar Qashqai Qashqai Qashqai

2015 2015 2015 2014

Ford Ford Toyota Nissan

Fiesta Focus Auris Qashqai

2014 2014

Nissan Nissan

Qashqai Qashqai

2014 2014

Toyota Ford

Rav 4 Focus

1.2 SV Automatic 1.5 DSL SV 1.5 DSL XE 1.5 DSL SV with Safety

COLOUR YEAR

Grey, Bronze Grey, Silver Magnetic Red Dark Red, Brown 1.25 Zetec Silver 1.6 Style Silver 1.4 DSL SOL Hatchback Black 1.5 DSL SV Silver, Bronze,Grey 1.5 DSL SV with Safety Bronze 1.5 DSL XE Mag Red, Silver,Black 2.0 DSL Luna 2 WD Gold 1.6 DSL Special Edition Silver, Blue

MAKE MODEL VARIANT

2014 2013 2013 2012

Volkswagen Jetta Nissan Qashqai Nissan Qashqai Nissan Qashqai

2013 2013 2013 2012 2012 2011 2011 2011 2011 2011

Mazda Hyundai Toyota Nissan Nissan Mazda Peugeot Toyota Nissan Nissan

3 I40 Auris Note Micra 3 3008 Auris Juke Qashqai

COLOUR

1.6 DSL T-Line Silver 1.5 DSL SV Grey 1.5 PET SV with Connect Black 1.5 DSL XE Silver,Black, Red 1.6 DSL Executive Red 1.7 DSL CRDI Style Black 1.4 DSL Terra Blue 1.4 5DR SV Caffe Latte 1.0 SV 5dr Silver 1.6 DSL Executive Grey, Black 1.6 DSL HDI Sport Grey 1.4 DSL SOL Hatchback Red 1.6 PET XE Black 1.5 DSL SV High-Spec Grey

065 671 9021

clareecho.ie

editor@clareecho.ie

NOT ALL HEROES WEAR CAPES

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Schoolgirl saves man from drowning

S

EVENTEEN year old Clare schoolgirl Laura McDonnell has been praised for saving John Meredith’s life after he suffered a heart attack in a swimming pool.

Both Laura and John, who is in his 60s, were competing in the Surf Life Saving GB National Pool Championships in Cardiff recently.

John had finished his race and was resting in the pool, but by the time Laura had dived in at the other end and swam the 50 metres, Mr Meredith had gone unconscious and sank under water.

“I swam up and by the time I hit the wall, he was in my lane and he was under the water.

“So I just pulled him up as quick as lQUICK-THINKING: Laura McDonnell

TY pupils of St Flannans and Colaiste Muire Ennis in conjunction with Bank of Ireland held a Community Family Fun Day and Wellbeing Event at St Flannans College Ennis on Saturday.

Pictured meeting his hurling hero Podge Collins is 6 year old Micheál Thornton, Ennis.

Photo by Arthur Ellis

26 Apr 2018

ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie

I could. It was so quick like loads of lifeguards and everyone came over and jumped in beside me straight away,” Laura added.

Lifeguards pulled John up on deck and started CPR on him, before transferring him to hospital via ambulance.

It was later established that John had suffered a massive heart attack after completing his race, but is now recovering well.

Laura also showed her swimming skills by coming first in the u19 Obstacle Relay at the same competition.

FOR FULL STORY TURN TO: PAGE 6

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Index TIDY TOWNS

4

DARING POOL RESCUE

6

FEATURE: PAGE 19-24

West County hits 50 years

11

TÁ OR NÍL? AOIBHÍN

Inside The Clare Echo

14-15

ENTERTAINMENT

19

OPINION

25

MOTORING

28-31

CLASSIFIEDS

34-35

GET IN TOUCH

NEWS: PAGE 10

From Syria with love

This week we have a special guide on Treacy’s West County as it celebrates 50 years. We speak to former and current staff,who started out under they Lynch family, while looking at some of the key events which took place over the years.

FARMING: PAGE 27

Shannon cuts 1,200 bales Shannon Airport last week came to the rescue of many local farmers, and we can confirm in this week’s farming section that more than 1,200 bales were cut from the airport.

We meet Sixmilebridge-based Syrian Imad, who was spotted last week on the streets of Ennis sharing roses with passersby in a bid to thank the people of Ireland for welcoming him

RECEPTION

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ADVERT To learn how we can promote your business call us on 065 671 9021 or email ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie.

l GOING ALL THE WAY: Students from 5th and 6th classes at Crusheen national school made €450 in an hour on Friday morning Photo by Julie TIllett by selling their special “Mallow Magic” marshmallows as part of their Junior Entrepreneur project

State pension calls STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

C

LARE’S Independent TD has called on the Government to implement a state pension scheme for Community Employment Scheme supervisors.

Dr Michael Harty said this small group are disadvantaged because they are employed by the community and voluntary sector, rather than by the State. He said this is unfair as the sponsoring organisations are heavily reliant on State funding and the supervisors miss out despite a lifetime of public and community service.

Dr Harty added that these schemes have to be administered, so they require supervisors and assistant supervisors, people with important skills who need to be treated properly.

“The Government’s positon has been that contracts for CE supervi-

sors cannot be of indefinite duration.

I think we need to change that thinking. In practice, CE Schemes tend to roll over and as a new contract is agreed, the supervisor continues in the job as if he or she was a permanent employee. However, no deductions are made to provide a pension.

“Community Employment schemes are very beneficial both for participants and for the various communities they serve. In Clare, for example there are over 20 voluntary and not for profit organisations sponsoring community employment schemes which provide invaluable services to the communities they serve.

The issue of CE Supervisors’ pension provision was being looked at by a Community Sector High Level Forum which has been convened by the Public Expenditure Department and that Forum outlined costs in resolving this pension issue in November.

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4

NEWS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

An Post invest in Clare offices

STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

C

LARE General Election candidate Councillor Mike McKee has welcomed the announcement by An Post to invest in the Post Office Network in Clare.

Cllr McKee contends that although this is a positive beginning, it must be pursued further so that we have a revitalised post office network providing important services to communities in Clare.

Councillor Mike McKee said: “The announcement by An Post of a €50 million investment modernising the post offices is to be welcomed. With additional services being provided, new locations and opening times, we hope this is the start of revitalising our post office network in Clare.”

“There is positive news also of no forced closer of any post offices in Clare and that there is a commitment on minimum coverage levels for Post Offices.”

“To date there has been much time wasted with a series of reports beginning published. There are international examples where the Post Office Network forms a vital

part of community life with a multitude of services.

“Post Offices have the potential to provide many different services and be a hub in communities.

Councillor Mike McKee added: “Modernising the post office network in Clare must include improvements to delivery timelines. Rural communities have been effected by late deliveries that can impact on important issues such as receipt of legal papers.”

“The plan to open Clare post offices at lunch times is also to be welcomed. Though large post offices such as at Kilrush, should begin to make community forms available to the public."

The Shannon Sinn Fein councillor added, “It is disappointing that An Post wants to locate more post offices in supermarkets and convenience stores such as at Kilmihil where the local office was closed and relocated.

"As postal services inside supermarkets dilutes privacy when it is needed.”

l KEEP IT CLEAN: Cormac McCarthy of Ennis Tidy Towns with Cllr Mary Howard and Clare Echo editor Stuart Holly

Ennis ready to tidy up THE Clare Echo has teamed up with Ennis Tidy Towns to bring 7,000 readers an adhesive poster explaining how to recycle responsibly.

The adhesive poster (right), which was printed locally by Real Print on the Quin Road, is perfect for attaching to your fridge door, kitchen cabinet or underside of your wheelie bin lid. It is available with copies of The Clare Echo which have been delivered door-to-door in Ennis this week.

Cormac McCarthy of Ennis Tidy Towns said, "We hope you find this flyer useful and together we can all ensure that as much appropriate material as possible is recycled to ensure a clean environment for this and future generations."

Ennis Tidy Towns are committed to raising awareness on a number of issues including waste and sustainability.

"One such area is the issue of recycling.

There has long been confusion about what can and cannot be recycled.

"We therefore decided to develop an Ennis specific education flyer. This flyer would feature iconic Ennis landmarks and by doing so - connect the separate concepts of

recycling and a persons sense of place."

A huge thank you to Karen Foley in the Environmental Awareness Office for seeing the merit in our proposal.

We worked with Damien Goodfellow, the graphic artist who developed our colouring in sheets now available New Your CLEAN, Lis to downHOUSEHOLD RECYCLING t LODRYOS& load from E ww.ennis- Rigid tidytowns. Plastics com. " T h e Paper & Clare Echo Cardboard were hugeTins & ly supportCans ive of the p r o j e c t WASTE PREVENTION TIPS from the get-go and pledged to lend their #RecyclingListIRL support to recyclin glistireland.ie this worthwhile initiative."

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6

NEWS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Laura makes pool rescue news@clareecho.ie

Ennis Swimming Club Captain Laura McDonnell (17) pulls drowning man from pool after he suffers massive heart attack

EVENTEEN year old Clare schoolgirl Laura McDonnell has been praised for her quick thinking after saving John Meredith’s life.

Both Laura and John, who is in his 60s, were competing in the Surf Life Saving GB National Pool Championships in Cardiff.

John had finished his race and was resting in the pool, but by the time Laura had dived in at the other end and swam the 50 metres, Mr Meredith had gone unconscious and became submerged under water.

“I swam up and by the time I hit the wall, he was in my lane and he was under the water.

“So I just pulled him up as quick as I could.

It was so quick, loads of lifeguards and everyone came over and jumped in beside me straight away,” Laura added.

Lifeguards pulled John up on deck and started performing CPR on him, before transferring him to hospital via ambulance.

It was later established that John had suffered a massive heart attack after completing his race, but is now recovering well.

“Once I got out then, I started getting a little bit shocked but it wasn’t so bad because I have the training of doing the lifeguarding courses and I’m part of the Ennis Swimming Club team so I suppose having the experi-

ence of doing the course has helped a lot too. But obviously it is different to a real life situation,” Laura said.

Laura, who hails from Barefield and attends Rice College, is captain of the Ennis Swim and Lifeguarding Club.

She is also currently completing a beach-lifesaving course.

Laura’s Mum Caitriona said Laura’s efforts are a credit to all of the training she has received.

“The skills that she has learned through

ELAINE TUBRIDY

S

l QUICK-THINKING: Ennis Club Captain Laura was competing in an event in Cardiff when she noticed John unconscious; John (left) is pictured on the road to recovery

the club have stood to her and it is great because a lot of work goes on behind the scenes when you are training these children, when they are preparing to become lifeguards and

to compete in competitions,” she added.

Laura also showed her swimming skills by coming first in the U19 Obstacle Relay at the same competition.

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8

NEWS

Fanore fulmar had plastic in system

ELAINE TUBRIDY

O

news@clareecho.ie

VER 90 per cent of fulmar birds found by the Republic of Ireland Beached Bird Survey had plastic in their stomachs.

This fulmar (pictured above), was found by volunteer Liam McNamara in Fanore.

GMIT Postdoctoral Researcher Dr Heidi Acampora and her team have been collecting dead sea birds for marine litter research for the last four years.

She confirmed that finding so many sea birds with plastic in their stomach is a very worrying trend.

“It can mean that plastics resemble prey and birds get confused and ingest them, or it can also mean that plastics are more available at sea than food,” Dr Acampora said.

Dr Acampora added it is relatively common to find dead seabirds for different reasons like rough weather

or shift in food availability.

About 20 per cent of all birds found had plastics in their stomach, but the percentage is much higher for fulmars.

Sometimes plastic might not be the direct cause of death, but it is one of the facts that led to a bird’s death.

“For instance, a common occurrence is that birds ingest plastics, but while some species can regurgitate indigestible matter, like gull and cormorant species, others, like fulmars, for instance, can’t and they accumulate these plastics, which have no real nutrition and leave no space for food, so the bird ends up dying from starvation.

“Technically, plastics didn’t directly kill that bird, but indirectly, it had a major role in the bird’s death,” Dr Acampora said.

l SORRY SIGHT: The fulmar which was found in Photo by Heidi Acampora Fanore

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

900 houses on the way

CLARE Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has said that 923 new social homes will be delivered throughout the county over the next three years.

“Clare will benefit from the significant progress made in advancing the construction pipeline, as well as social housing delivery targets for local authorities up to 2021”, he explained.

“Last year we saw 778 social housing solutions delivered here in Clare. This includes 520 delivered through the Housing Assistance Payment and Rental Accommodation Schemes and 258 houses built, acquired and leased by the local authority.

“One of the key outcomes of the second Housing Summit with local authority Chief Executives held earlier this year was a commitment to drive greater transparency and accountability at individual local authority level on the delivery of the targets under Rebuilding Ireland.

“In the latter part of 2017, significant additional funding was allocated to increase the overall level of ambition under Rebuilding Ireland in the period to 2021, and also signalled a rebalancing of the strands of delivery towards construction projects.

“Overall, the Government has now committed €6 billion to support the accelerated delivery of 50,000 additional social housing homes by end 2021, through build, acquisition and leasing programmes,” Deputy Carey explained.

Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy said: “The building of new social housing homes by local authorities and approved housing bodies is ramping up dramatically as we can see in this construction report. These numbers don’t include new builds under Part V, voids, acquisitions or long term leases so the actual stock of new social housing coming on stream is even greater than this.

“Under the targets I have announced, a minimum of 40,700 homes will be delivered during the four year period to end-2021, including over 7,800 this year alone."

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10 NEWS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

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From Syria with love

T

WENTY year old Syrian Imad Ibrahim has melted the hearts of the people of Clare with a beautiful gesture.

He wanted to do something to thank Irish people for welcoming Syrians into the country, so he took to the streets of Ennis with a sign and roses.

“Ireland did a very good thing to Syria. They welcomed us here. They said welcome and they put us in a safe place,” Imad said.

Imad has wanted to thank Irish people for their hospitality for some time, but wanted to wait til his English improved.

“We know that Ireland has welcomed a lot of Syrians in the country and when I came here I had

no English at all. I didn’t know how to thank Irish people,” he said.

Imad came to Ireland with his family two and a half years ago and now lives in Sixmilebridge.

“When I left [Syria], it was very difficult. It’s war, you know. You always get bombed or something, it’s not safe.

“That’s why I moved to Lebanon. I lived there for four years and then I came from Lebanon to Ireland,” Imad added. Imad is attending adult education courses and hopes to study software development.

He has also created a YouTube channel and uses it to help Arabic speakers to ace their driving test and apply for Irish citizenship.

Roses with Inn At Dromoland manager Nico Hernandez

GMIT Galway campus, Saturday, 28th April, 2018 10am – 1pm Know your options for CAO Change of Mind!

l SAY IT WITH ROSES: Imad

Find out about our exciting new courses for CAO 2018

@GMITOfficial

Roses at the ready

EXCITEMENT building as young Ladies from all over the Banner county aim to become 2018 Clare Rose.

The Clare Rose Of Tralee Centre is proud to present the “2018 Clare Rose of Tralee Gala selection” at The The Inn at Dromoland, Friday night April 27, Doors open at 7:30pm.

The chosen representative will represent Clare in the International Rose of Tralee festival this August.

This year`s Clare Roses of Tralee are: Laura Buckley (Resilience Care, 25, Corbally); Carrie Enright (Pat Malone Car Sales, 26, Ballynacally); Rebekah Crerand (Shannon Group, 19, Ennis); Roisin Latham (The Bayview Kilkee, 26); Chloe Mc Namara (Donnellans centra, loughville 22); Molly Lynch (Rowanberry Restaurant / The Salon Shannon, 22); Gerianne Greene (Michael O’ Doherty Health Care, 25); Aoife Gilligan (Ardnacrusha Garden Centre, 26); Jade Hoynes (Palm Free Irish Soap, 23); Siobhan Weir (Oranmore Pharmacy, 26); Clara Burke (Gerry Burke Plant Hire, 25) ; Audrey Sheils (Shannon Heritage, 24); Jane McCarthy (Pat Foudy & Daughter, 22) ; Siobhain Lane (Old Ground Hotel/ Corofin Camogie club, 19); Niamh Morrissey (Armada Hotel Spanish Point, 19); Sarah McTernan (TBC, 24)

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

NEWS 11

The referendum on repealing the eighth ammendment will take place on Friday, May 25. With more than 20 per cent of voters undecided, we look at perspectives from both sides of the debate

Tá

l CAMPAIGN: Clare Together for Yes canvassers in Clarecastle on Friday April 13

Níl

l AGAINST REPEAL: Bishop Monahan is strongly against Yes vote in the referendum

Door to door canvassers report mostly 'positive and compassionate response'

'I contend that God is author of all life and God only decides who should live'

DOOR-TO-DOOR canvassing for a Yes vote in next month’s referendum on the Eighth Amendment got under way in Co Clare earlier this month, with canvassers reporting a mostly positive and compassionate response.

Meanwhile, a crowdfunding campaign raised half a million euro in four days, to pay for a national poster campaign that was also rolled out in the Banner County.

Clare Together for Yes spokesperson Eilis Murphy said: “We began our canvass on April 12, and by [the 15th] , almost 40 canvassers had visited 1,400 homes in Clarecastle, Sixmilebridge and Kilrush.

“Many Clare people we are speaking to on the doorsteps show real compassion on this issue, and have genuine questions, which we are answering in an open, honest and factual way.

“It can be six or eight weeks before a woman or girl even realises that she is pregnant, leaving very limited time to consult with her doctor and to make a decision. In cases of rape, the proposed 12week legislation is the only compassionate, workable way to support rape victims.

“While the proposed legislation will still be more restrictive than in other European countries, allowing a woman or girl in these circumstances to access an abortion in the first 12 weeks will provide her the

by ELAINE TUBRIDY

time and support she needs, if that is her decision.”

Among those canvassing was Sinn Féin general election candidate Noeleen Moran, who said: “The response is generally positive, people appear to be keeping an open mind and while there are concerns arising as to what may follow in terms of legislation once the 8th Amendment is removed, there is recognition of the need to find a compassionate way to address the unintended consequences of the 8th Amendment – fatal foetal abnormalities and cases of rape or incest – which can be achieved only by voting Yes.” ‘Yes’ posters also began going up on lampposts in Co Clare in the past few weeks, paid for by an online crowdfunding campaign by the national Together for Yes campaign. This raised an astonishing €500,000 in just four days.

Aiming to raise €50,000 in seven days to pay for 5,000 Yes posters, the target was reached within hours and was revised upwards throughout the week, before finally being put at €500,000, a target which was also met. More than 14,000 people donated.

Anyone interested in canvassing with Clare Together for Yes can contact the campaign at claretogetherforyes@gmail. com.

BISHOP of Killaloe Fintan Monahan is pleading with voters to vote no in the upcoming referendum on the Eighth Amendment.

He believes the right to life is sacred and a most fundamental human right and that human life should be protected from the moment of conception until natural death.

“A ‘Níl’ vote in the referendum will keep the equal right to life of the mother and the unborn baby and this will continue to save the lives of countless babies for the foreseeable future,” Bishop Monahan said.

Bishop Monahan believes the gift of human life is the most profound and wonderful gift that we have on this earth.

“I contend that God is the author of all life and God only decides who should live or die. The most fundamental human instinct of all human beings is to live, to thrive, to celebrate life and to develop to her or his potential.

“I believe that every living being deserves the opportunity to do this,” he added.

Bishop Monahan confirmed that he is constantly being contacted by pro-life campaigners expressing their concerns about repealing the Eighth Amendment.

He pointed out that it is an issue that people hold very definite views on and feel very strongly about, himself included.

Bishop Monahan said that rape is an unthinkable crime and a terrible violation of the dignity of a person.

“In the case of a woman being raped or as a result of incest and becoming pregnant it is essential that every possible effort is made to give care, counselling and any assistance available.

“But is it right to punish the unborn child for the crime of his or her father? Surely that child has a right to life also, provided every professional help and assistance is given to his or her mother,” he added.

In the case of fatal-foetal abnormalities, Bishop Monahan believes every baby deserves the right to “live as long as God sees fit”.

“In the Christian view of things whether it is in the case of an unborn child or an elderly person, terminally ill, it is not up to humankind to choose when they should live or die and the challenge and reality of the suffering involved has profound meaning that might not be as obvious to a person searching for faith,” he said.

Bishop Monahan advised anyone considering an abortion to seek help and objective advice and carefully consider the situation before making a decision.

“No matter how difficult or traumatic the situation there are always options. Help is always available.

“Advice, counselling, assistance, support, family, friends, carers and a listening ear will help to get through any situation no matter how challenging,” he added.

12 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

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

l FLYING FORM: Pictured (l-r) at Travel Counsellors’ gala awards ceremony are Ciara MacConnell of Travel Counsellors’ head office team; Travel Counsellor, Gearóid Mannion; and Jim Eastwood, Global Sales Director at Travel Counsellors Photo by Mark Harrison

Top award for Mannion Travel agent scoops national honours

C

LARE travel specialist Gearóid Mannion has won the prestigious award for ‘Best Corporate’ at the annual conference for leading independent travel company, Travel Counsellors.

The awards, which recognise the exceptional work of Travel Counsellors’ network of franchisees, were presented at a black-tie ceremony in Powerscourt Hotel, Wicklow.

The gala event featured as part of Travel Counsellors’ two-day annual conference, which saw over 160 travel professionals in attendance.

Speaking about his win, Ennis-based Gearóid, who specialises in corporate trav-

el and holidays, said: “It is an honour to be awarded ‘Best Corporate’. I’ve been in travel all my life, and with Travel Counsellors for the past few years, and it is a job I am extremely passionate about. For both my business and leisure clients, I focus on offering what sets Travel Counsellors apart… bespoke experiences, expert advice, and unrivalled customer service.”

Commending Gearóid on his award, General Manager of Travel Counsellors Ireland, Cathy Burke stated: “Every year it is important to celebrate the hard work and commitment of our dedicated travel professionals. The gala awards are a perfect opportunity for such celebration, and

this year we congratulate the achievements of one of our County Clare Travel Counsellors, Gearóid. With such a passion for travel, he is always focused on achieving the very best for his clients.”

Travel Counsellors is an award-winning independent travel company whose global network of travel professionals deliver bespoke travel experiences to the leisure and corporate markets. With over 75 Travel Counsellors in Ireland, its business model is built on relationship building, repeat bookings and trusted referrals.

For more on Gearóid see travelcounsellors.ie/gearoid. mannion.

l WINNING FORMULA: At the Travel Counsellors’ gala awards ceremony are Travel Counsellor, Gearóid Mannion and his wife, Michelle Photo by Mark Harrison

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

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

BUSINESS

13

14 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

lLAHINCH: Surf, sand and sea

Aoibhín Garrihy

LOVE

CLARE

THE NOTEBOOK

D

ID ANYONE see Ireland’s Deep Atlantic on RTÉ on Sunday night? It was shot by the incredibly talented and brave North Clare underwater cameraman, Ken O’ Sullivan and what stunning footage he captured. Fittingly, it aired on Earth Day and reiterated how vital it is to protect our beautiful planet.

On Tuesday, I joined renowned Irish gardener Peter Dowdall to launch the Bord na Mona Growise campaign to encourage garden wellness and I discovered that no space is too small or strange when it comes to creating a garden retreat with the right know how! Check out Growise on Facebook for more info and competition details.

This week the students of the Actors and Reactors School of Speech and Drama in Ennis will undertake their Leinster of Music and Drama exams ahead of our End of Year Showcase on the 10th May in glór in aid of Elevate. I am so proud of this group of students and with another year of drama coming to a close I am

lINCREDIBLE: Ireland’s Deep Atlantic, shot

by North Clare underwater cameraman, Ken O’ Sullivan

reminded again of how talented the youth of Co Clare really are. Break a leg guys!

Friday night sees the annual Peter Mark VIP Style Awards take place in the Marker Hotel in Dublin and with a couple of nominees in the Garrihy household we will be there with bells

on! It’s always such a great night of style, Irish design and a celebration of Irish fashion.

As someone who loves dusting off the glad rags I really look forward to it and with a bit (lot) of luck we might bring back some silverware to the Banner County!

COVET IN CLARE

STATEMENT STOOL Looking for a touch a fun and fluff in your life?

Look no further than this beauty from Carraig Donn...the ultimate statement stool!

PRE-NATAL PREP I recently discovered the incredible dynamic duo Helen and Liz of Belly Baby Antenatal Classes and if you’re looking for the perfect gift for expectant parents this is it.

Spend a day in the company of two passionate midwives with a wealth of knowledge and techniques to help with the incredible journey to parenthood.

BACK IN VOGUE It may be the pregnancy comfort factor that has me hooked lately but I believe dungarees are a real winner this season and Brass boutique in Ennis have the perfect pair to see you right through the summer.

STAR GAZE Seoidin Eile’s latest addition has me swooning. This unique MyaBay ring (also available in white) is €45 and in my opinion a star buy.

KAFFEINE HIT Clare’s newest coffee house offers the best in fairtrade, organic, sustainable and eco friendly coffee. Drury coffee is roasted and packed in Ireland and served in the uber cool, newly refurbed surrounds of Kaffeine in Ennis.

COLUMNIST 15

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

HAPPENINGS

ACTORS AND REACTORS END OF YEAR SHOWCASE Sit back and enjoy an evening of dramatic extracts, poetry, mime, drama and recitals presented by the talented young people of the Actors & Reactors School of Speech and Drama in aid of Elevate. Young People supporting Young People. Thursday 10th May at 7pm. See glor.ie for more.

FATHER TED FESTIVAL From lovely girl competitions, matchmaking and trips to Father Ted’s house for tea this is a weekend affair not to be missed! May Bank Holiday Weekend. See tedtours.com for line up and info.

SLOW FOOD FESTIVAL A week later than usual (11th-13th May) the Slow Food Festival is a date for the diaries for all foodies. Titled “Taste the Atlantic, A seafood journey” expect the best of local produce from cooking demos to tastings and activities for the kids. See slowfoodclare.com for more

Al Fresco Dining Options

Top 5 in Clare O’LOONEYS LAHINCH

1

With surf, sand and sea as your backdrop is there a more breathtaking al fresco dining option in the county? Add seafood and stout and O’Looneys is a must this summer...all we need now is sun!

2

TEA AND GARDEN ROOMS BALLYVAUGHAN

This hidden gem in the heart of the Burren is a flora and fauna enthusiast’s fantasy. Enjoy tea in china cups and freshly baked cake in the beautiful surrounds of a secret garden setting and tune in to the beautiful sound of nature. The Tea and Garden Rooms are a little haven.

GOOSERS KILLALOE

3

Serving hearty Irish wholesome dishes on the banks of the river Shannon, Goosers is an old favourite for locals and visitors alike so when the sun shines, grab a picnic bench and watch the world go by!

4

JP CLARK’S BUNRATTY

Nestled off the commuter belt between Limerick and Ennis this restaurant is a destination foodie haunt at any time of year but when the sun shines, the beautiful window boxes and flower pots are in full bloom and the fresh fish platter is on the menu, JP Clark’s is al fresco fabulous!

ENNIS GOURMET STORE

5

This little cosmopolitan gem transports you to the continent and provides the perfect setting to sip a glass of wine and enjoy a plate of cold cuts and artisan cheese. Antipasti perfection!

16 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

Brilliant programme [and] sadly it also shows up our garbage at bottom of sea.

We are destroying our own planet Breda Cooley

in reaction to our story about Ken O’Sullivan’s documentary which showed on RTÉ

instagram.com/ theclareecho

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week SCOIL CHRÍOST RÍ @criostri

Goodbye old school! Great work going on. Our school yards and play areas being developed

TRENDING ON OUR WEBSITE: CLAREECHO.IE Clare film-maker stuns with Ireland’s Deep Atlantic RTE aired the first episode of North Clare under sea cameraman Ken O’Sullivan’s documentary last Sunday and the Twittersphere was absolutely lit.

The stunningly shot Ireland’s Deep Atlantic was six years in the making and sees Ken and his crew brave the open ocean to capture some never before seen footage, with incredible footage showing behaviours of dolphins and sharks in the area.

It showcased the beautiful coast of Co Clare, with one particularly dramatic shot of the Cliffs of Moher viewed from the sea.

The public were so struck by the documentary, the hashtag #irelandsdeepatlantic was still trending on Twitter early this week.

Noted RTE documentary maker Philip Bromwell was awe struck by the footage, tweeting “this is pretty magical television. Well done to all involved”.

Fittingly, Monday was Earth Day; An international day of awareness against plastic and its effects on the environment.

Another Twitter user beamed, “Mesmerised by the footage on Ireland’s Deep Atlantic. Congratulations Ken O’Sullivan. Brilliant documentary.

Ireland’s answer to Blue Planet! Perfect for Earth Day.” Ken O’Sullivan, who set up Sea Fever Productions with his partner Katrina Costello, was overwhelmed by the response to his documentary.

He said online, “Well I’m lost for words for a change ... “[I] just can’t get over the overwhelming reaction to Ireland’s Deep Atlantic.

“Thank you all so much for watching and commenting on it, our wonderful ocean.”

l STUNNING: Much footage from Ken’s RTE two-part documentary was filmed off the coast of Clare and Kerry

Entertainment

HAVE A MERRY OL’ TIME AT GLÓR MAY 3 @ GLÓR

A

FTER a successful Irish premiere, Maria Nilsson Waller and Dance Limerick present merry. go.round at glór on Thursday 3 May at 8pm. merry.go.round examines our most human of concerns: the search for true love and what it is we call home. Looking beyond our world into the great vast blackness of the cosmos we find five characters orbiting each other. Some are destined to converge, others to split apart.

They all long for authentic connections in this otherworldly realm of celestial bodies. Caught between construction and deconstruction it is a marvel universe both beautifully simple and incredible messy.

The performers all bring their unique skills and presence to the project. Each dancer has, through hours of improvisation helped shape the piece throughout the process, performing a work that is partly scored as improvisation. Sensitive listening and daily re-invention is part of the ensemble’s work, delivering a piece that is never performed quite the same.

With a touch of cinematic sci-fi, merry.go.round features an eclectic soundtrack including Swedish jazz band Je Suis!; fragments of NASA’s sound recordings of the solar system and iconic opera recordings.

A dance workshop led by Choreographer Maria Nilsson Waller will take place on Thursday 3rd May from 10am – 12pm.

This workshop, in conjunction with Dance Limerick’s dance performance merry.go.round will be led by choreographer Maria Nilsson Waller and members of the cast of professional dancers. The workshop is intended for both experienced

€40

and emerging dancers – professional and non-professional, and all ages and abilities are welcome.

The workshop will lead you through a movement class in a fun and playful manner. We will explore dance and movement improvisation as a language of expression, storytelling and group communication.

With a solid background in various contemporary dance styles, classical ballet and yoga, the class combines influences from a wide range of techniques.

THURS 3RD MAY 10AM -12PM WORKSHOP: €8, PRE-BOOKING REQUIRED Please wear comfortable attire.

Maria Nilsson Waller is a freelance dance artist and choreographer.

With work described as mesmerizing, pure, and quirkily humorous she is a multidisciplinary artist who also designs sound, set and costume.

Born in the Swedish town of Östersund and now based in Dublin, Maria graduated from the Royal Swedish Ballet School and Salzburg Experimental Academy of Dance.

Surrounded by music, she grew up playing various instruments and was strongly influenced by the traditional music of the region, as well as by classical and modern music.

Maria divides her time between Dublin and Sweden, and professional dance. In October 2015 she premiered See the Man a piece for 35 professional football players plus staff of ÖFK (Östrsunds Fotbolls Klubb, Allsvenskan, Sweden) - a unique collaboration between sports and dance.

For information contact glór at 065 6843 101 or glor.ie.

4 WEEK BEGINNERS IRISH JIVE COURSE

NO PARTNER REqUIRED

Starting MONDAY 30th April in The Ritz LISDOONVARNA 8.15pm Starting TUESDAY 8th May in Mc Namara’s Pub SCARRIFF 8.15pm Starting THURSDAY 10th May in Fahy Hall ENNIS 8.15 Starting SUNDAY 13th May in The Westbridge MILTOWN MALBAY 7pm

Call 087 399 5877

More info and video check

lDAY OF DANCE: merry.go.round will take place on the Thursday evening in glór, before which a workshop will take place at 3pm

18 COMMUNITY

Community

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

WEST / NORTH CLARE

HAPPY 101ST BIRTHDAY HAPPY 101st birthday to Violet Houlihan who resides in Kilrush. The above photo captures a momentous occasion of Volet Houlihan’s 101st birthday celebration on the April 23 with her grandaughter, 26-year-old Karinah lek Houlihan from Ennis.

Violet is a native of Seafield, Quilty where the family had a pub before moving to Vandeleur Street in Kilrush, where they opened a shop.

She loves music so in the past joined the choral society, operatic society, church choir band and still today tells the stories of the I.C.A and the civil defense trips around the country. According to her family, she’s still singing to her favorite songs today.

BURREN LAW SCHOOL CONFERENCE Now in its 25th year, this year’s Burren Law School conference will take place from May 4-6, 2018 at the Burren College of Art in Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.

The theme of this year’s conference is “Law and the Art of the Possible: The Fifth Province?” and is Guest Directed by Chairperson of the National Women’s Council of Ireland, Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop. Additional speakers include: Former Governor of Maryland, Martin O’Malley; journalist and broadcaster, Alison O’Connor; historian, author and journalist, Brian Feeney; Honorary President of the International Society for Therapeutic Jurisprudence, David B. Wexler; journalist and broadcaster, Eamonn Mallie; Justice Mary Laffoy and many others.

This year’s topic springs from the fact that there are four provinces in Ireland, but the word for province in Irish is ‘cúige’, meaning a fifth. So where was the fifth province?

This has led to the idea that the fifth province was not a physical place, but a creative ‘no man’s land’, a space for settling disputes and healing. This is particularly relevant in the light of current controversies such as Brexit, a declining faith in institutions of State and our ‘post-truth’ society.

This year, our distinguished Brehon scholar is Prof Ruairi Ó hUiginn, Director of the School of Celtic Studies at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and he can make himself available for interview to discuss such issues as: What were the Brehon Laws?

How were they different to our present legal system, inherited from the British tradition?

What is the relevance of the Brehon Laws to contemporary Ireland?

In addition, this year’s Guest Director, Ellen O’Malley-Dunlop can also contribute about how the idea of the Fifth Province resonances with contemporary Ireland.

l BANKING ON SOME FUN: TY pupils of St Flannans and Colaiste Muire Ennis in conjunction with Bank of Ireland held a Community Family Fun Day and Wellbeing Event at St Flannans College Ennis on Saturday.

Pictured are Marie Meehan, Bank of Ireland, Special Guest Daithi O’Shea, Colin Ryan, Bank of Ireland, Ciara Earlie, Bank of Ireland, Special Guest John Burke with Elevate team members Aisling Reidy, Casey O’Neill, Muireann Byrne, Lucy Donnelly, Katelyn McInerney, Kate Neylon, BenCosgrove and Luke Fitzsimons Photo by Arthur Ellis

WEST / NORTH CLARE For information go to burrenlawschool.org or call 065 7077200.

ENNIS CLARE TOGETHER FOR YES QUIZ Clare Together For Yes is holding a fun table quiz at 8pm on Thursday 26th April, at The Local bar in Ennis, to raise funds for the campaign for a Yes vote in the referendum in May to remove the 8th Amendment. Finger food, raffle, great spot prizes. €20 per table of four SPORTS DAY AT LEES RD A sports day, in association with Ennis Track Athletics Club, will take place at Lees Road on Sunday, April 29 at 12 noon.

The day is being run for Under 7s up to Senior category, with short and middle distance races, long jump, turbo javelin, shot put and relays.

There will be medals for all tiny tots, Under 7 and 8s.

Prizes for Top 3.

Adults and children €3. Children under 4 free.

SHANNON SHANNON “STAND UP FOR LIFE” RALLY Shannon for Life are hosting LoveBoth “Stand Up for Life” rally, Fri 27th from 6.30-8pm at the Oakwood Arms Hotel, Shannon and are inviting families from all over Co. Clare to attend. This rally will be a celebration of all that is good about the 8th Amendment. It will be a celebration of the 100,000 lives saved by the 8th Amendment, a celebration of the fact that Ireland is conFUNDRAISING SUCCESS sistently ranked as one of the safest places in the world Members of St. Senan’s Social Club raised €4,500 for to be pregnant and a call for better supports for women Sláinte an Chláir Kilnamona at a benefit dance in the facing crisis or unplanned pregnancies. Guest speaker Bellsfort Inn. will be Mary Kenny from Limerick, who herself faced an Pictured above: Tony Butler, Bridget Kirby, Mary Frost, unplanned pregnancy and testifies that the time it took Michael Casey, Geraldine Hogan, Bridie Casey, Tom Lowry to plan an abortion in England was the time she needed to change her mind. This celebration of the 8th amendand Sean Considine. ment while being informative will also be family focused,

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Community

COMMUNITY 19 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

l THANK YOU, DEER: Pictured visiting the returning Red Deer in the Bunratty Castle and Folk Park were L-R Eabha Reddin (11), Jamie O’Brien (8), Harry Reddin (5), Jack Reddin (7) and Eabha O’Brien (11) from Sixmilebridge Photo by Arthur Ellis

SHANNON / EAST CLARE with live music and children’s activities. For more information 086 1908318 www.loveboth.ie ANNUAL TEA DAY IN KILLALOE “The Alzheimer’s Society, Waterman’s Lodge Respite & Daycare Centre are hosting their annual Tea Day event on Thursday 3rd May from 10 - 2pm.

Would be very grateful for any support you can give and perhaps call in for cup of tea”with a children’s storytelling workshop with Katja Machleidt.

TULLA CAMOGIE It was a busy week last week for Tulla Camogie Club with three teams in action over three days. First up were the U14s who overcame St. Josephs/Doora Barefield by the bare minimum in a fantastically entertaining match in Tulla. Final score Tulla 2-3 St. Josephs 2-2.

Thursday marked the first day in a number of years that Tulla has fielded a team on its own at Minor level and they marked the occasion in style, beating Corofin/ Ruan 2-22 to 1-0.

Friday saw the Juniors take on Intermediate side Broadford in Div. 3 of the League. In a hard fought game, a last minute goal saw Broadford draw the match leaving the final score Tulla 3-9 Broadford 4-6.

Last weekend saw the opening round games in the second annual Sharon Walsh Memorial U11 Ground Camogie Tournament, with a number of clubs hosting clubs. Congratulations to Eabha McInerney who competed strongly while representing Tulla in the U14 Feile skills finals last weekend.

MACRA HURLERS FLY HIGH Well done to the Sixmilebridge Kilmurry Macra hurlers on reaching the quarter finals of the Macra All Ireland 7 a side competition last Saturday. The team showed un-

believable spirit drawing level after a 10 point half time deficit to Devils Bit before narrowly missing out on a semi final spot by the slimmest of margins with the last puck of the game.

The team beat Waterford City, Kilkenny City and lost to Callan in the group stage.

Congratulations to Camross who beat Callan in the final. Club meeting Friday night in The Pumphouse Bar at 9pm. All welcome.

Pictured above: Back row left to right

Eoin Tuohy, Joe Hogan, Neil O’ Brien, Jim Corbett; Front row left to right Brian Clune, Jason McGrath, Michael Cotter, Dan Cotter ROAD WORKS Minister Pat Breen said that 13 roads in Clare will be greatly improved under the 2018 Local Improvement Scheme.

“Funding of €482,000 has been provided to carry out improvement works on 13 roads in Clare under LIS 2018,” said Minister Breen.

“The roads which are to benefit from the funding has been determined

by Clare County Council and include Bramble Court Lane, Ennistymon; Ballycahill in Ballyvaughan and Carhunagry, Mullagh. Moughna, Miltown Malbay; Blean, Kildysart; Leitrim, Cree; Baltard, Doonbeg, Sallybank, Kilmore and Killuran Cemetry have also been identified by the local authority for his year’s LIS. Ballinagough South; Kildrum Cemetery; Clarehill, Clarecastle and Cappagh Lodge, Meelick are also on the list.”

Reeling in the years at Treacys

l MEMORABLE: (clockwise) Big Tom, who tragically passed away, and Patrick Treacy with a Clare shirt; Patrick speaks with Joan Burton; Ger Loughnane presents medals to Clare’s AllIreland winners at Treacy’s in 2013; Brendan Buglar and his dad play the accordian at that same ceremony; John Brennan of At Your Service after Treacy’s appeared on the RTE show

l YESTERYEAR: Many Clare residents will remember this familiar sight driving in the Limerick Road on the way to Ennis All photos courtesy of Treacys West County

Patrick Treacy: Hotel business is in my blood

l MAIN MAN: Patrick Treacy at Treacys West County

STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

THE seventh out of eight children to grow up on the family farm in Butlerstown on the outskirts of Waterford City, Patrick Treacy was always destined to become a hotelier.

While a Clare location may not have been written in the script, it was the perfect fit when he took the reins at the West County in Ennis five years ago.

Patrick is now the man responsible for bringing Treacys West County, formerly Lynch’s, into its 50th year officially this weekend. It’s no surprise, as the Treacy family opened their first hotel in Waterford City 41 years ago, a feat in itself.

“Between growing up on the farm at home and the hotel that’s always been there, it’s always been part of me growing up. As soon as I was old enough to work, I did work,” explains Patrick (33).

Patrick studied accountancy but admits that he liked working in the hotel industry too much to change his career path and he cut his teeth at Treacys Hotel, Waterford.

“Through the years I was in the bar, reception, restaurant, a year in housekeeping, a year in the kitchen and for the last year or two before I came to Ennis, I spent a lot of time with sales and accounts.”

Treacys Hotel Group is now made up of five hotels, including the Oakwood in Shannon which is being run by Patrick’s sister Maria. With his parents having passed retirement age, his brother John runs the Waterford hotel, while Anton is at the helm in Enniscorthy and Eileen opened a hotel in Carrickmacross in Monaghan last summer.

The fact that two of the group’s hotels are in Clare is a happy coincidence - the family on his mother’s side are from Tipp, while his dad hails from Kilkenny.

Photo by Julie Tillett

“There were a number of places we looked at – there was no shortage of places for sale at the time, 2012, 2013, so there was good value and really what you were buying in most places was potential – every place needed a lot of work that was any way affordable. We found that Ennis, being a good sized town in a good location; Clare being a very good county tourist-wise, with good accessibility, I just found that this had the best potential in what I was looking for.

152 bedrooms, leisure centre, good sized convention centre, bar, restaurant, lobby area, car park. It had the facilities, just each and every area needed a good refurb.”

So Patrick moved into a house across the road and spent his first three years working seven days a week in a bid to “get on top of things”. This included a big job on the function room, rejigging the bar and restaurant, work on the bedrooms, gym facilities and reception area along with behind the scenes work to bring Treacys West County to a high standard. “In the last year or two, especially the last year, I’ve been trying to concentrate on working on the floor with the customers as opposed to behind the scenes, which had been taking all my time.

I found a great welcome from Clare people, I think Ennis is a good oul town to go out in and it’s been great since I’ve been able to loosen up a little in the last year.”

And Patrick stresses that there’s huge satisfaction in bringing the landmark establishment to the half century mark, with 110 locally-employed staff.

“I remember when I first came I did an interview and I said ‘I remember growing up you’d be looking at the news in the evenings and there’d be a politician or a union head or some other important person being interviewed outside the door of the West County Hotel or in the function room’.

It’s an iconic establishment. We might not have had any connections to Clare but we certainly knew about the hotel from a young

age. It was one that was on the national stage for a good few years. Only during the boom, other hotels came up to match it.

“I look at my father, he came from a farming background and he’s now in hotels 40 years. He’s 10 years behind the original Michael Lynch who was here, so it’s nice to see that, at least some bit of a legacy is kept from the original owners as well.”

Patrick adds: “When I came, unless there was an event at the hotel or in town, the

hotel was empty. I’d two Saturday nights in June 2013 when I’d less than 50 people in house. The following year I didn’t have one Saturday when there was less than 200.”

This weekend the Into The West music weekend takes place to help mark the 50 years, while a commemoration plaque will be unveiled by Dr John Hillery, the son of former president Patrick Hillery who opened the Hotel in 1968. Any past staff are welcome to come and visit over the weekend.

Family ties run strong at Treacys Liz Malone speaks about her 36-year journey at the landmark establishment

l YOU CAN ACCOUNT ON ME: Liz Malone works in the accounts department

L

at Treacys West County after almost four decades at the establishment

IZ Malone came to Clare for work as a young Limerick woman and got more than she bargained for - a husband, family and a career.

It was 36 years ago that Liz began her full-time work in the West County Hotel, which was owned by the Lynch family.

“My first cousin Anne was originally from Labasheeda and she was married to bar manager Pat Lynch, a first cousin of Michael Lynch. I came down and lived with them. I worked in the reception area.”

It was during her early years here that Liz was introduced to then barman Stephen Malone, “a nephew of Mrs Lynch”, who would become her husband 30 years ago this year. Stephen went on to work at the Inn At Dromoland, where he still works to this day.

For her part, Liz started her working life in Ennis at the cash desk at the grill. “Then I moved to reception for a good number of years. When Lynch’s had all the hotels I went around doing lodgements. I came back then and ended up in accounts in the last few years, six or seven years.”

Liz recounts her early years at the West County with great fondness, when she worked under John Madden who was general manager.

“The years here were fantastic. I met some great friends and had some great laughs. I can’t talk about the parties,” she laughs, adding “We did end up in the pub a few times.

We used to go out together because we’d work nights. We’d go to the Queens on a

Friday night and here on a Saturday night.

There’s loads of music here still, it’s really coming back.”

Liz admits that while there were some difficult years, Patrick Treacy has done a magnificent job on returning Treacy’s West County to a buzzing environment.

“30 years ago this place was absolutely booming. We had conference after conference in the 90s. It was really, really busy. It was a hectic hotel. In the downturn things did quiten and everybody knows what happened.

“Patrick then bought it, he’s here the last five years and in fairness, he kept all the staff and everyone that wanted to stay. It’s coming back up again now, I can see it turning. It’s very busy with tours, we’re getting conferences. Patrick had to put money into it of course, there wasn’t a lot done when things weren’t going well.”

Liz also paid tribute to Michael Lynch.

“In all fairness, Mickey Lynch had a great vision. He was a lovely man, a pure gentleman and they were very good to a lot of people around the area. I got married and bought a house, we’re very grateful for that and there’s a lot of us here in the hotel [in the same situation].

“There is still a great working environment,” added Liz, who said that in the accounts department alone, “There’s me, Derry Hartery, and Mary Cahill in accounts and between the three of us, we must have 100 years done here.”

ALPHIE TELLS US WHY WEST IS THE BEST

SALES and Marketing Manager Alphie Rodgers may have only joined the Treacys West County squad two years ago, but he is impressively well versed on the hotel’s history.

He recalls the story of Ireland’s first Indian TD, Dr Moosajee Bhamjee, being elected in 1992 and the Clare hurlers descending from an aircraft stairway into the ballroom in 1995.

“All of those added to a fairly rich and colourful history of the hotel and what we wanted to try and do is reflect that in our celebratory night at the end of the year,” Alphie said.

The hotel will host a night of entertainment and nostalgia towards the end of 2018 for all of the stalwart staff that helped make the hotel what it is today.

“We are going to have a

l RECALLING HOTEL’S HISTORY:

Sales and Marketing Manager Alphie Rodgers.

Photo by Arthur Ellis

night where we invite back some of the former staff and have a night to remember the past and meet old friends. Part of what we are trying to achieve is to gather some of the life stories of the West County,” Alphie added.

Alphie and the Treacys team want to acknowledge the fact that the hotel has only been operated as a Treacys West county Hotel since 2013.

“Prior to that it was part of the Lynch hotel group.

They as a family and they as a business were significant contributors to what the West County was and became, not just as a physical building with bricks and mortar but also the impact that it had in terms of socially and culturally and even economically,” Alphie said.

Country music stars descend on Ennis REELING IN THE YEARS

1968 Hotel Built by Michael Lynch and opened for operation on 15th March 1969 The number of hotel rooms doubled from 20 to 40 1970’s The hotels cocktail bar opened, and the hotel became a Grade A hotel

with 40 additional bedrooms, 3 function rooms and 5 bars.

1988 Big Tom played for the Hotels 20th anniversary. His last gig at the

West County was on the June Bank Holiday 2017, some twelve months

after playing to near 1,700 capacity of Big Tom fans who travelled from

all over Ireland and the UK. 1992 Dr Moosajee Bhanjee was elected TD at the 1992 Election

count at the Hotel 1996 West County Leisure Club was opened by Taoiseach Albert Reynolds TD 1998 Island Convention Centre was opened by Taoiseach Bertie Ahern TD 2013 1,000 Clare GAA fans attended the Presentation of the All Ireland

Medals at a Gala Banquet.

2018 50th Anniversary Celebration

O

N 25th April 1968 The West County Inn was officially opened by the Minister for Employment Dr. Patrick Hillery, who later became the President

of Ireland.

On This Saturday evening Dr Hillery’s son Dr. John Hillery will unveil a plaque at the West County Hotel to mark the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the hotel.

The dignitaries will then join former employees and staff members for a reception in the hotel where they will recall some of the many tales and stories of the Hotel, its customers and events down through the years.

The West County Inn was at the time of its construction an “Ultra Modern Inn” and

was built by the well-known Clare building contractor Mr. Michael Lynch.

The hotel has been central to the life and times in Ennis and Co. Clare for many years.

What better way to celebrate that 50th anniversary weekend than with the biggest names in Irish Country Music.

Cliona Hagan and Patrick Feeney entertain the Clare crowds while John Hogan and Mike Denver will top the bill on Saturday night.

Dave Lalor plays the Sunday afternoon tea dance with tunes he has played to West County customers over the past 25 years when he also featured on the line up for the landmark hotel’s silver anniversary in 1993.

EVENTS THIS YEAR

In its 50th Anniversary year the West County Conference & Leisure Hotel will play host to a wide variety of headline events including April 27-29th May June July

September October November December

Anniversary Country Music Weekend.

Derek Ryan, Declan Nerney, Jimmy Buckley Fleadh Cheoil an Chláir Fleadh Cheoil na Mumhan World Junior Cycling Tour of Ireland Irish National Darts Organisation finals Kilfenora Ceili Band & Joe Dolan Anniversary weekend Ceili Dancing Weekend, Staff Reunion night.

Christmas Party nights, Outdoor Markets, Mike Denver, Santa’s Grotto

West County dance was ‘the place to be seen’ NOWADAYS, you wouldn’t think twice about wearing jeans to a bar.

But according to Treacy’s West County Hotel Accommodation Manager Mary Kenny, that wasn’t the case 40 years ago.

“Girls and fellas would often arrive here on a Saturday night and they couldn’t go in because they were wearing denims.

“We would often go down and say, ‘sorry’ because they were wearing denims. You might be going in with a pack of friends and it wasn’t just here, it was everywhere,” she said.

The dance at the West County Hotel was the place to see and be seen on a Saturday night.

Crowds would come from all over for a night of great craic.

“Long ago, the dances were massive, the dance scene was huge. The West County had the dancing on a Saturday night and we had a snack room where you bought snacks and things, people weren’t drinking” Mary added.

Mary joined the West County Hotel 38 years ago and she has seen a lot of changes down through the years.

She pointed out that she had a great relationship with the original owner Mike Lynch, who really valued her input in upgrading the rooms.

“He would be doing something and I would say I don’t know would that really happen. We had a lovely working relationship. We could argue with each other and we would

l PART OF THE FURNITURE: Mary Kenny (left) with Patrick Treacy and longtime colleague Liz Malone

listen to each other which was great,” Mary said.

Mary also has a great relationship with her accommodation staff, some of whom have been with her for the last 15 years.

She believes that if you look after your staff and treat them the way you want to be treated, they will stick with you.

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Treacy’s West County Hotel has witnessed some major historical events over the last 50 years, especially when it comes to elections.

“Elections were mad. You wouldn’t be able to walk down the corridor. The crowds that followed elections then was unreal. The ministers’ arrival and all the dignitaries that would arrive in at the

end of the count was huge.

“It would be on all night and the following day, they wouldn’t go home. You wouldn’t walk up and down that corridor.

“You would be going down to get change for somebody in to the bar, you would not be able to move,” Mary added.

OPINION 25

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Eoin Neylon

EDITOR’S OPINION

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

Stuart Holly

Trump meeting a missed opportunity

As a man, I felt it wasn’t my T place to vote I T’S been a week where the campaign work from both sides of the Repeal referendum has cranked up, big time.

With just under one month to go, that’s no surprise.

Posters are appearing on lamp posts; and in some cases being ripped down again. Last week, a man was filmed in Limerick walking along the street popping Repeal The 8th posters from their plastic bearings.

Full disclosure; I don’t like reporting on the issue - the outcome on May 25 will boil down to the values of each individual - however it’s an unavoidable subject and people want to read about it.

In this edition of The Clare Echo, we’ve given coverage to both the Yes side and No side. Bishop Fintan Monahan was among those to throw in his tuppence worth.

While in theory, I agree with his contention that every living being deserves an opportunity at life, he goes on to suggest that women who have been subjected to rape shouldn’t be given a choice to abort, contending that only God decides who should live or die. Does God also decide who should be raped and not raped? There are holes in his argument.

Meanwhile, on Saturday Tyrone manager Mickey Harte headed up a

group of GAA personalities to launch ‘The GAA Athletes for a No Vote’ campaign in Dublin. This created a backlash from a number of quarters in the GAA, including former Clare hurler Darach Honan who tweeted: “Totally inappropriate of Mickey Harte to try to use the GAA in the referendum debate.”

The debate is heating up, that’s for sure.

Some 47 per cent of people surveyed for a Behaviour & Attitudes/Sunday Times opinion poll want the amendment to be repealed, while 29 per cent do not and 21 per cent are unsure.

Since the last poll was taken in March, undecided voters are up one point. And so, people in that bracket will be the deciders and now begin in earnest to look inside themselves for an answer.

For my part, when mumblings of a referendum began I excused myself from any discussion by way of my gender. I sat on the highest fence I could find, and hoped this gave me the moral high ground too. I’d say something along the lines of, “As a man, it’s not my place to vote. Only women know the consequences of birth, or an unwanted birth. It’s up to women to vote on this women’s issue.”

Of course I was wrong. This is about protecting humans, be it mothers or unborn babies, depending on which side of the line you fall. But only by speaking to the women in my life was I able to see that I should vote on May 25. I’d advise any man reading this to do the same.

l CONTENTIOUS TOPIC: Bishop Fintan Monahan spoke to us about his strong beliefes on the 8th, while Darach Honan (above) hit out at Tyrone’s Mickey Harte

HE St Patrick’s Day meeting between Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and US President Donal Trump left a lot of people unexpectedly talking about Doonbeg and wind farms. No commentator could have predicted that one. Trade and LGTB rights were tipped to be the hot topics. Instead, due to a bizarre story told by An Taoiseach about Trump’s golf resort and Clare County Council’s planning department, the press focus swung to the west coast of our lovely county. Whereas most of the focus was on the supposed interference of politicians in the planning process, we missed a golden opportunity to really get to the cusp of the matter at hand; just how do we want to generate our energy here in Ireland into the future?

This is a debate that acutely affects us in Clare. Primary of these is that we have the single biggest producer of electricity in Ireland in Moneypoint power station.

The 30-year-old cold-fired station on the estuary shores has a maximum output of 915MW, meaning it is vital to the national grid. But in an age when man-made climate change is front and centre, should we be continuing to burn fossils fuels in this quantity to meet our energy needs? The evidence supporting man-made climate change in unequivocal and as such, the debate has moved from “is it real?” to “what can we do about it?”. It goes without saying that we in Clare have felt the effects of climate change over the past quarter century. In that time, the frequency of extreme weather events, be they storms, floods or extreme temperatures, has increased dramatically.

Rainfall records and temperature records are being broken as a matter of course year on year. But as a small island what can we do? Well, we can lead by example as we have done in the past.

Ireland was the first country to introduce the work place smoking ban for instance, and just last year,

an international treaty on nuclear disarmament was signed on which the Irish Government was a key driver. These are but two examples where the world has followed our lead. The Paris Climate Accord shows the world is ready for a change, Mr Trump and his supporters aside of course. If we aren’t to burn fossil fuels, what can we do instead?

The push for wind power is what led to Trump ringing then Minister Varadkar. He, and several others, don’t like wind farms. They don’t like the look of them primarily, with some claiming that they affect their health and wellbeing. Others, like myself, don’t mind their aesthetic.

That’s a matter of taste, however, and in a planet crying out for change, we don’t often have the luxury of taste to think of. That said, we cannot rely on wind power alone. Nor should every single hill top be adored with them. Like the old saying goes; too much of anything is bad for you. What we do have a unique abundance of is wave power potential. Ireland, Scotland and Argentina have the greatest potential market but because of their locations and the limited scope for its implementation in a commercially viable manner outside of these three, most investors shy away from this technology and as such, the huge energy potential lays there in our oceans, untapped. If the Government is serious in pushing more renewable energy, this is something they should be investing in. ut what of Moneypoint? The plant is a massive employer and a critical piece of infrastructure in our electricity grid.

Shutting it down would, on the face of things, not be viable from a power supply and human cost point of view, leaving many families without a source of income. The answer might be biomass. Biomass is fuel that is developed from organic materials, such as scrap lumber, forest debris, manure and certain crops. As such, this is a renewable source of

B

energy that will never run out, especially if we promote well maintained forestry. In fact, instituting Moneypoint as a biomass plant could see additional benefits economically and environmentally.

Firstly, as biomass would be in big demand, farmers would be encouraged to use their land for forestry and arable farming to produce materials. This would mean a move away from dairy for many which is itself a huge producer of greenhouse gases. Another advantage of biomass is that the fuel itself needs to be refined for optimum efficiency in the power station burner. As such, a refinery plant for the raw materials would need to be constructed and staffed meaning jobs in domestic energy production. As recently as 2015, we imported 85% of our energy needs, costing the state €5.7bn.

Surely, we can do better with the abundant natural, renewable resources we have. f the Government are serious about meeting our climate change targets, these are policies that need real consideration. They should re-institute the solar power grants to promote solar water heating in Irish homes, both new and old.

The Government should also support communities that wish to start micro-generation schemes of their own to keep they power generation local and renewable. And finally, back to wind power.

There are many myths about it out there that would detract from its usage but here’s a fact; last month, Portugal generated 104% of its power needs from wind power alone. For something its critics say doesn’t work, that’s an impressive stat. It’s also an industry set to provide a quarter of our energy needs this year and employs 3,400 people in Ireland, saving a quarter of a billion euro in fuel imports each year. Perhaps that’s worth considering next time we see waves crashing over the sea wall in Kilkee or the next time we see a turbine spinning on a hill. The future is ours to decide.

I

26 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

A FACE OF LOVE ‘Remember that there is no better thing that you can do in life than to love someone’

A

LL OF us, with different dreams, different goals and different perspectives, wake up each morning with a purpose or new goal or idea and continue on our different journey’s of life.

All of us are unique and distinctive from one another, yet there are similar things which brings us all together irrespective of all the differences and contrasts we have. If personalities or being, make us different and unique, emotions make us alike.

If belief ’s, religion and none divide us, humanity brings us together. If choices and goals make us different, love makes us alike.

If countries and boundaries divide us, the world brings us together. The focus of everything that we seek is the same.

The road we journey on may be different but our destinations are the same.

We all strive for love, care and mercy alike, we are all afraid of being left out or turned away, we all want a life worth living, we all want unconditional love, we all want genuine trusting, caring, loving friendships and relationships.

We all want real love, care and mercy. The recipe for love, care and mercy in fact, is simply there in our hearts, waiting to be brought out in each one of us through our eyes, face and actions, to be shared, to be given, to be felt and to be expressed, without greed, without selfishness, without judgement, without jealousy, without hate and without negativity.

All we need is just a little love, all we need is just a little care, all we need is a little mercy, all we need is just a little encouragement, all we need is just a little kindness, all we need is just a little respect, all we need is just a little faith, and the world is a place of love, care and mercy!

Today, as we look round the world and see how much unnecessary suffering and death there is, the many ways in which human beings are been destroyed,

perhaps we could pause and take stock of our own lives.

We may protest that we do not perpetrate the kind of horrors we have seen in many parts of our world or indeed at times in our country, but every time we fail to accord others their dignity, every time we close our hearts to others’ needs, every time we disrespect others, every time we do not show love, care and mercy, we chip away at something important.

That the most beautiful of all the beauties God created, is the human person. May we never forget that.

THE APPEARANCE OF OUR FACE

There is a wonderful, old story about the great Leonardo Da Vinci that I love. When Leonardo was painting the Last Supper it took him several years to complete it. He had decided to use live models for Christ and each of the twelve Apostles.

He chose the model for Jesus first when he found a man

SHARE THE LOVE: A face of love cures all ills

whose face radiated both beauty and unconditional love. As the years went on Leonardo completed each of the Apostles except for Judas Iscariot.

Finally, he found a man whose face seemed full of avarice, viciousness, deceit, and hypocrisy.

After he finished painting the man as Judas, the man asked if Leonardo knew who he was.

When Leonardo said no, the man replied, “I am the same man you painted years ago as the figure of Christ.” This story reveals a spiritual truth and that is, no matter how old or young we are, the appearance of our faces can often

show the condition of our souls.

I have seen rugged, scarred, weather beaten faces that when they smiled stilled showed the beauty of angels and eyes full of love.

I have also seen young, wrinkle free faces with eyes as cold as ice and bitter smiles full of both fear and hate.

The good news, however, is that it is never too late to change your face, your heart, and your life. It is never too late to fill your soul with love and care and mercy and let it shine through your eyes and actions.

I only hope that my own face no matter how old or wrinkled it gets and it is getting older as I write this thought for the week, is always a face of love.

I hope each and every face is a face of kindness, goodness, gentleness, helpfulness, hopefulness, and joyfulness.

I hope it is a reflection of God’s love for us all.

May your own life always sparkle with goodness and God. May your eyes always shine with the light of joy.

And may everyone who looks at you always see a face full of love.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, don’t lose sight of what’s important. Don’t lose hope when life gets tough. Don’t give up on your dreams for the future.

Don’t sell yourself short in life.

Don’t forget how to hug, to laugh, to smile.

Don’t be too proud to cry.

Don’t be hateful or hurtful. Don’t forget to say, “thank you”, “I am sorry” and “I love you” each and every day. Don’t expect there will always be a tomorrow.

Don’t forget that one small kindness pays you back two fold.

Everybody has something to offer. Indeed, most of us have many things to offer and, in a lot of cases, special expertise is not required. A face of love cures all ills.

We are all capable of giving that which people need most of all: Love.

Love translates into time, service and the sharing of oneself.

Don’t give up.

Share the love, share your love.

Be a face of love.

And remember that there is no better thing that you can do in life than to love someone or care for some one or be there for someone. Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can.

I pray that each of you that have read this thought for the week today and on other occasions, may be blessed always and in all ways.

Shannon cuts 1,200 bales STUART HOLLY

F

editor@clareecho.ie

ODDER shortage hit farmers from Clare got a well-deserved reprieve this week as they received bales from the 1,200 plus crop harvested at Shannon Airport over the week-

end.

Three days of grass cutting ended on Sunday evening at the airport, with the 1,265 bales despatched throughout the weekend to worst hit farmers across the region.

The silage harvesting began on Friday and continued to Sunday as the airport acceded to the request from the IFA to allow grass across its 400 acre site to be cut.

Shannon Airport Director of Operations Niall Maloney said: “It was busy few days but we’re used to a lot of activity at the airport this time of year. What we are not used to is the type of stress that farmers have endured due to the fodder shortage.

“They have been under severe pressure due to the fodder shortage and when we sat down with the local IFA and they confirmed they wanted to avail of our grass again, like in 2013, we had no hesitation.

“Our grass management plan for this year was to do some topping during the summer months, but in the circumstances we threw our plans out the window in order to assist.

The farming community is hugely important to this region and are huge supporters of Shannon Airport and we were delighted really to have been able to help them at this time of need.”

Bales were loaded on articulated lorries at Shannon and delivered to regional locations from where they were divided amongst worst hit farmers, but some farmers also came directly to the airport to take home bales for their own and neighbours’ herds.

Among those to visit Shannon over the weekend was the country’s leading farm leader, IFA President Joe Healy who said that the airport’s willingness to step in at a

l HOW’S SHE CUTTIN: Local farmers cutting sileage at Shannon Airport’s 400 acres last week

time of need will not be forgotten.

“It’s great. This puts farmers into good form, when you see the sunshine shining and see the mower working and the baler working and the bales stacked up here because farmers have just endured the worst winter on record.

“Those bales are a godsend and a life saver; the difference between farmers going to bed feeling stressed and farmers going to bed happy knowing their animals have enough

for tonight and tomorrow and next week.

“Normally it’s farmers helping farmers but for the likes of Shannon to come in and offer this, it shows the goodwill of Shannon Airport towards the farming community.”

Among the farmers who came to collect bales directly from the airport was Joe O’Connell from Parteen, who said: “This is important because there are people with a lot of damp land around us. It will just carry them over, until we get a fine week and it will

Photo by Eamon Ward

ok again. My son is milking cows and I have sucklers. We had to put in the cows by night since last September and they’ve been in since. We had a lot of extra fodder but, with the long winter, we’ve ran out now and it has cost us a lot of money with feed and meal.

“I will be bringing this load back for my own and neighbours’ farms. There’s great credit due to Shannon Airport and the IFA to put all this together to help out the local farmers.”

Mart trade stays steady for all types

ENNIS MART Tuesday, April 24 ANOTHER large sale in Ennis mart where trade has remained steady for all types. Trade is similar in both the heifer and bull weanling ring, with quality lots easily fetching €2.65/kg to €3.00/kg. Another large entry of calves where Friesian bull calves sold from €70 up to €210.

Angus/Hereford cross calves sold from €150 up to €370.

Continental cross calves sold from €235 up to €450. There was excellent quality in the suckler ring, in-calf suckler cows and heifers sold up to €1,500. Suckler cows with calves at foot sold for a top price of €2,200. Freshly calved dairy cows and heifers made from €1,000 up to €1,480. Sheep trade is holding firm, with spring lambs making up to a max of €159 for a pen of 7 weighing 44 kg. Hoggets made up to €155 for 60kg. Ewes and Lambs made to €160. Cast ewes met a strong demand with quality lots easily making between €70 - €127.

BULL WEANLINGS 1 LMX 290kgs - €935 - €3.22/kg 1 CHX 535kgs - €1,520 - €2.84/kg 2 CHX 270kgs - €835 - €3.09/kg 2 HEX 595kgs - €1,190 - €2.00/kg 1 LMX 385kgs - €1,170 - €3.03/kg 1 AAX 195kgs - €500 - €2.56/kg 1 LMX 340kg - €1,050 - €3.08/kg

HEIFER WEANLINGS

2 CHX 265kgs - €905 - €3.41/kg

1 BBX 340kgs - €1,000 - €2.94/kg 1 LMX 415kgs - €1,155 - €2.78/kg

4 CHX 281kgs - €870 - €3.09/kg 1 LMX 345kgs - €1,020 - €2.95/kg 3 LMX 378kgs - €1,075 - €2.84/kg 1 AAX 450kgs - €935 - €2.07/kg 1 CHX 400kgs - €1,065 - €2.66/kg

2 HEX 295kgs - €720 - €2.44/kg

KILRUSH MART Wednesday, APRIL 18 Kilrush mart had a slightly smaller sale than the previous week but with an almost total clearance of all lots. A large entry of yearling stock was on offer again this week. Trade held firm on the previous week with a good demand for all quality types with even a slight increase on prices from last week. FR calves sold mainly from €40 up to €130. AAX/HEX calves sold from €140 up to €305, continentals sold up to €300. Good activity from agents and farmers around all rings. Great demand for cull cows.

DRY COWS

1 LMX 575kgs - €1,085 - €1.88/kg 1 CHX 600kgs - €1,145 - €1.90/kg 1 FRX 560kgs - €985 - €1.75/kg 1 CHX 755kgs - €1,450 - €1.92/kg

1 FRX 590kgs - €915 - €1.55/kg 1 FRX 545kgs - €915 - €1.67/kg 1 FRX 760kgs - €1,130 - €1.48/kg 1 FRX 460kgs - €920 - €1.40/kg

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

WORTH THE WAIT

G

ROAD TEST: FORD MONDEO HYBRID OOD things come to those who wait? Well, that certainly seems to be the case with the Ford Mondeo. Originally developed and put on sale in the US as the Ford Fusion, European and Irish customers had to wait 18 long months, thanks to a change of factory from Ghenk in Belgium to Valencia in Spain, for the fourth generation Mondeo to arrive on these shores.

Aside from some early quality hiccups, it was generally worth the wait — smooth, handsome, good to drive, but sadly lacking in sales as customers began the lemming-like migration away from saloons and into SUVs. Now, though, here comes a new Mondeo model that might rekindle a little interest in the trad four-door — the Mondeo Hybrid. Again, we’ve had to wait for it. A Fusion Hybrid has been available in the US market since 2013 (as, indeed, has a more advanced plugin hybird version) but it’s only now, five years on, that Irish customers get their taste of part-electric Mondeo motoring.

Was it worth the wait? Well…

There’s no doubting the technical specification. While the Mondeo Hybrid looks identical to its conventional petrol and diesel counterparts, under the skin it’s packing some cutting-edge tech. The engine is a 2.0-litre petrol unit, running on the Atkinson combustion cycle. In its simplest form, that means it opens its intake and exhaust

valves at subtly different times, compared to a conventional petrol engine. Atkinson cycle is good for maximising economy, but not so great for power nor acceleration.

The Toyota Prius has used Atkinson cycle engines since 1997, and like the Prius, the Mondeo Hybrid partly uses its battery and electric motor to compensate for the flatter power delivery. It’s 1.4kWh lithium-ion battery is, arguably, more advanced than the nickel-hydride battery of the Prius, and combined with the petrol engine and the 88kW electric motor, the system develops a robust 187hp.

It’s also very fuel-efficient, returning a combined economy figure of 4.2-litres per 100km (that’s 67mpg) and Co2 emissions of 99g/km (mind you, those figures are taken from the old NEDC fuel economy test, not the more stringent WLTP system that comes fully into force this September).

That motor-engine combo drives the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) gearbox, which means that you do get the ‘Prius Whine’ effect when accelerating hard, as the transmission hold the engine at almost-peak revs in the search for power, but it is more efficient overall, so you’re trading off aural quality against superior economy.

And, pleasingly, the Mondeo Hybrid seems to be able to hit its economy marks.

Around town, it easily cracks past the 50mpg barrier, which is decent, and I suspect that if driven very gently in urban

conditions, it might actually hit that 67mpg combined figure. Out on the motorway, where hybrids often come unstuck, it still managed to record a creditable 47mpg on a long journey, driven briskly, and with the air conditioning running. True, a more aerodynamically slippery Prius would have gotten past 60mpg, even on the motorway, but the Mondeo trades that off against more conventional, arguably more appealing styling, and a bigger cabin. It’s worth pointing out, though, that while the Mondeo’s body looks big, bold, and very attractive (with more than a hint of Mustang around the front) the fitting of the hybrid battery stack has shrunk the boot down to a measly 383-litres.

It’s got to be more fun to drive than a Prius, though? Right? Well, mostly yes. The steering feels livelier than that of the benchmark Toyota hybrid, and the Mondeo reacts a little more athletically in corners than its great rival from Toyota. The only problem is that, as with more conventional versions of this generation of Mondeo, there’s rather more slack movement in the suspension, and less outright driver appeal than you’d have found in its illustrious forebears. It’s good to drive, but older Mondeos were brilliant.

Still, the Mondeo Hybrid rounds out as a very appealing product. For those looking to make a break from diesel, but still fancying 50mpg+ economy, it’s a very good option, and its more conventional styling (relative to the Prius) will certainly

FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested: Ford Mondeo 2.0i Hybrid Titanium Pricing €32,745 as tested; Mondeo range starts from €28,845 Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol + 88kW electric motor Transmission: CVT automatic, front-wheel drive Body style: four-door saloon CO2 emissions: 99g/km (Band A2, €180 per annum) Combined economy: 67.7mpg (4.2 litres/100km) Top speed: 187km/h 0-100km/h: 9.2 seconds Power: 187hp at 6,000rpm Torque: n/a Boot space: 383-litres EuroNCAP rating: Five-star; 86 per cent adult; 82 per cent child; 66 per cent pedestrian; 66 per cent safety assist

have an appeal of its own. It’s also the only hybrid in Ford’s lineup for now, so gives the Mondeo a brief chance to get one over on its more popular SUV siblings.

It’s well-priced too, at €32,745 for this wellequipped Titanium-spec model, it more or less matches the Prius blow-for-Euro-blow.

Worth waiting for? On balance, yes, it was. lHOT HYBRID: It’s well-priced at €32,745 for this well-equipped Titanium-spec model

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

MOTORING 29

Motoring News

Skoda says diesel is still important

S

KODA IRELAND has announced a market share of 7.1 per cent, for Q1 2018, which marks the highest ever sales performance by the brand, in Ireland and saw them deliver 5,064 new vehicles to customers.

The brand’s latest set of results solidifies their sixth position in the sales rankings and Skoda’s performance is in stark contrast to the overall market performance.

In a year when overall car sales are

down over 5.8 per cent, Skoda has managed to grow its sales volume by 3.7 per cent.

Skoda’s results also confirmed that 56 per cent of their sales were diesel powered vehicles.

Commenting today, John Donegan, Brand Director at Skoda Ireland said: “Strong demand for our diesel powered vehicles helped us achieve our greatest first quarter result ever, in the brands history.

We believe that our efficient

EU6 Diesel engines still provide the best solution for the majority of Irish motorists.

Diesel is alive & doing very well.

“Skoda also possesses one of the most advanced ranges of petrol engines – such as the turbo-charged 1.0 TSI 115bhp unit, available in the Karoq and Octavia, offering great choice to our customers.

By 2020, we will be offering our customers the option of Electric, Plug-In-Hybrid, Petrol

and of course Diesel.” Despite the growing trend towards SUVs, the brand’s best-selling model was the ever popular Octavia, with over 2,000 units sold.

The Skoda Superb has also enjoyed further success securing increased segment share, at the expense of premium brands.

Skoda also announced today that they have provided loans to the value of over €41 million to customers, during the first three months of 2018.

This performance was assisted by 0 per cent finance, provided by Volkswagen Bank and the launch of the highly anticipated new Karioq SUV, to the Skoda line up.

0 per cent Finance was a driving force for this success.

Skoda also confirmed that they are extending 0 per cent Finance to Skoda Approved Used Cars for a limited time.

TRAVEL IN STYLE TRAVEL WITH ATTITUDE The ŠKODA Superb from €269 per month with 0% PCP finance The new Superb SportLine stands out from the crowd with its black styling elements, striking alloy wheels and double stainless steel tail pipes. Standard spec includes customisable interior ambient lighting, sports seats and a panoramic sunroof. The adaptive suspension makes for even smoother handling. You need to test-drive it to believe it.

The Superb is available at Al Hayes Škoda — range starts from €28,750 on the road and is available with 0% PCP Finance.

www.skoda.ie

Al Hayes Škoda, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

065 682 2400 www.alhayesskoda.ie

Typical Example: Superb 1.4 TSI 125bhp €28,750. Deposit €8,274. 36 Monthly payments of €269 including fixed price service plan of €12.99 per month. Optional final payment €11,260.

Total Hire Purchase Price €28,750. Cost of credit €0. Minimum deposit 10%. ŠKODA Finance trading as Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Lending criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply. Subject to lending criteria. Hire Purchase agreement. Available on models ordered before 30th April 2018. Prices shown are retail prices including delivery charge of €600 but exclude metallic paint. Superb SportLine Images used for illustrative purposes.

30 MOTORING

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Kia sets the pace with backing of running competition

C

ATHERINA MCKIERNAN and Rose of Tralee Jennifer Byrne set the pace ahead of the inaugural Kia Race Series which kicked off on the March 17 with The Streets of Portlaoise 5K. The Kia Race Series will bring together seven well established regional races around Ireland under one umbrella with an added closed road running event in Mondello Park.

The Kia Race Series is encouraging Ireland’s best male and female distance athletes to compete against each other, with a new Kia Stonic up for grabs for both the overall male and female winner of the series.

To be eligible to win the series, runners

must take part in five of the eight races including the finale. There is the added incentive of â‚Ź7,000 bonus fund available for course records.

The rest of the series will comprise of: Run with Catherina (Co. Cavan) 10k on Saturday, April 28 at 7pm; Tallaght AC 5k on Sunday May 6 at 12pm; Bob Heffernan 5k (Enfield, Co. Meath) on Tuesday May 22, at 8pm; Braveheart 5k (Trim, Co. Meath) on Friday, June 15, at 8pm; Dunshaughlin 10k Road Race on Saturday, June 23, at 7:30pm; Roscommon 10 Mile on July 7 2018, at 11:30am; and the grand finale of the Mondello International 10k, on the Mondello Park race track, on SeplSETTING THE PACE: Catherina McKiernan and Rose of Tralee, Jennifer Byrne tember 9, at 11am.

Old Mill Road, Ennis, Co. Clare, Ireland

Call Us: 065-6849961 / 086-8396182

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THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

MOTORING 31

Motoring News

Margot Robbie heads up Nissan’s Formula E campaign

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ISSAN has completed its Formula E launch tour in Los Angeles with an event led by Oscar-nominated actor and producer Margot Robbie, the company’s electric vehicle and sustainability ambassador, heralding an exciting era for Nissan as it enters the ABB FIA Formula E Championship.

First revealed at the Geneva Motor Show to high acclaim, followed by its U.S. debut at the New York Auto Show, the Nissan Formula E car was shown to an array of VIP guests in L.A. Robbie spoke at the event about her experience driving an electric vehicle in the city, and about her pride in serving as an ambassador for Nissan’s electric vehicles.

“I’ve already seen many of Nissan’s initiatives, designed to bring cleaner air to roads and fairer access to power across the globe. And now, we have this – a fantastic new Formula E car,” she said. “I’m excited to see how it will help Nissan develop its EV

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL NISSAN DEALER FOR MORE INFORMATION: DULICK MOTORS, GORT ROAD, ENNIS. PHONE: 065 6823232

lHOLLYWOOD MEGASTAR: Margot Robbie at Formula E Launch

offering further and bring new and exciting technologies to communities across the world.”

Nissan’s entry into the electric street racing series coincides with the launch of the new generation Formula E car, featuring striking new aerodynamics and

a whole new battery and powertrain package. The Nissan Global Design team in Japan designed the livery.

Nissan is the first Japanese automotive brand to enter Formula E. The entry is the latest ex-

pression of Nissan Intelligent Mobility, the company’s vision for changing how cars are driven, powered and integrated into society.

“Nissan is proud to be a leader when it comes to ingenuity and innovation in EV technology, with more than 300,000 Nissan LEAF vehicles sold worldwide.

So taking on the challenge of Formula E is a natural extension, and we’ve been proud to have Margot Robbie helping us take that message to a global audience,” said Daniele Schillaci, executive vice president of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. In October, Robbie announced three new Nissan sustainability

pilot projects that aim to harness the skills and ingenuity of Nissan’s global workforce to improve energy access and disaster relief.

One is to build a microgrid system to provide power for local communities in developing countries that don’t have sustainable access to energy; another seeks to partner with organisations in vulnerable areas to find ways that Nissan and its technologies can help during natural disasters.

Season five of the Formula E series is expected to begin in December 2018 and will visit major cities around the world including New York, Paris, Berlin, Rome, Zurich and Hong Kong.

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Book a test drive

SPORT 33

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

MUNSTER CHAMPS

l WHEEL DEAL: 16-year-old Danny MacDonald wins the A3 race in Currow, Co Kerry at the weekend Photo by Brendan Slattery

Burren CC racing team have successful outing in Kerry CBS Ennistymon have recently been crowned Munster U15 D Hurling Champions.

Congratulations to Mr Jason Daffy, manager, and a superb team performance.

CBS Ennistymon won the final on a scoreline of 3-14 to St Mary’s Newport 3-04

B

URREN Racing team picked up a fine collection of wins and placings in Sunday’s John Drumm Cup, Currow, Co. Kerry.

Highlights of the day included promising Clooney Quin teenager, 16-year-old Danny MacDonald winning the A3 category race in a bunch sprint on a rolling 75km course. This is a superb result against a stacked field of experienced riders for the young Clareman.

Newmarket’s Enda Murray won the A4 60 km from a solo breakaway, and with that result Murray is now upgraded to A3.

In the A1/ A2 race Bellharbour man Mark Shannon crossed the line in ninth position with Kilmaley’s Brendan Talty claiming 3rd A2 spot on the day.

Burren Racing Team have have enjoyed an excellent start to the Cycling Ireland season with several results in races so far this year.

The team have riders travelling to The Tour of Ulster & Kanturk 3 Day stage races in the coming weeks and particpate in the Clare Cycle league every Thursday in Barefield.

LOCAL GOLF RESULTS ENNIS Senior Ladies Results 17th April 2018 1st Della Burns, Pat Leacy, Eileen Corry 34 1/2 2nd Mary Leahy, Rita O’Brien, Carmel Verling 36 5/6 3Ts COMPETITION 18H S/F Wednesday 18th April Alt day Sunday 15th 1st Ann O’Loughlin (17) 37 points 2nd Sinead Hegarty (18) 34 points Gross Suzanne Deane (15) 17 gross 3rd Flor Coffey (22) 33 points 4th Monica Finnerty (18) 32 points 5th Helen Harnett (23) 31 points 9H S/F Wed 18th April/Sun 15th April 1st Mary Woulfe (28) 16 points 2nd Maura O’Rourke (24) 15 points Cahercalla Cup 2018 Sat.21st /Sun.22nd April 2018 1st Fergal Gallagher(12) 65nett 2nd David O’Connor(6) 67nett

Gross : Sean Myatt(3) 71 Gross 3rd Ollie O’Loughlin(10) 68nett Cat A : Jarlath O’Halloran(5) 69nett Cat B : Pat Cuddy(16) 69nett Cat C : Seamus Mann(21) 71nett Friday Open Singles.

20- 04 – 2018 1st Niall Hannon (11) 39pts 2nd Gary Collins (6) 39pts Gross Sean Myatt (3) 30pts 3rd Gerry Daly(16) 37pts Tuesday Fourball 1st Luke Coote & walter O’Brien 29pts 2nd Johnny Kearse & Brian Tuohy 29pts 3rd Ollie O’Loughlin & Tom Saunders 29pts

34 CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

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CLEANING

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THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Classifieds

CLASSIFIEDS 35 CONTACT SALES

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36 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

Your Horoscopes April 26 IF YOU get the chance for a one-on-one meeting with your boss, jump on it. You can further your personal agenda with the greatest of ease at the moment, and you’ll look great doing it. Your powers of communication are on fire, and you’re able to be simultaneously forceful and charming -- a winning combination, indeed. It’s a very good time to go after what you want.

Taurus

Gemini

YOU’VE got a real knack for interpersonal relationships at the moment. The ability to form a practically seamless connection comes to you like magic, and suddenly you two are completing each other’s sentences, laughing hysterically and making some great big new plans. The bonus is that you’re also thinking practically, and that’s making you able to see how this all fits into the fabric of your life.

ALL sorts of different means of communication are in the stars, making for a possible communication overload. One minute you’re online messaging frantically while also answering email, the next minute you’re chatting with a friend by the watercooler. It all may end up raising more questions than providing answers, but luckily that’s the kind of environment you thrive in.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

YOUR ability to think innovatively and come up with good solutions is more important than following the directions at the moment -- though while the person giving the directions is around, you may want to fake it. As your project evolves, however, your knack for being original will get you lots of positive attention, and others will be mighty receptive to your next big idea -- the bigger, the better.

EXPECT the unexpected, and expect it to come in a rather obscure way. A project you thought was going to be a real dud could take on interesting (and resume-enhancing) new dimensions, motivating you anew to do some great work; or a coworker might suddenly come through with a hidden talent that’s exactly what your collaboration needed; even your romantic life could take a sudden (and perhaps scenic) detour from the path it’s on.

YOUR first response to an opinion or a piece of news from someone close to you may be a strong one, but you’ll want to avoid a knee-jerk reaction if at all possible. Give it a chance to settle in, and you may be able to regard it in a more philosophical light. Whether you asked for this information or not, a better opportunity to express your feelings about it will present itself -- and you’ll be more thoughtful and coherent.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

IT’S definitely time to take it easy, so look for a calm companion amid all the hubbub. A little mellow rest and relaxation with someone you’re comfortable with -- an old friend, a sweetheart -- restores your tranquility in a very valuable way. A quiet cafe might be a fine idea or even home sweet home. When the silences are just as nice as the talk and the laughter, you know you’re in the right place.

YOU’RE taking care of business in your usual conscientious, disciplined manner, and you’re exceedingly pragmatic and grounded right now. So grounded, in fact, that with your nose to the grindstone like that you might just miss some very enjoyable socializing -- of the romantic variety.

Get your nose out of your work and your projects every so often to check out the human element around you -- and one human in particular.

YOU’RE feeling very jolly these days and embracing it with impressive abandon. Maybe a giant splurge on an indulgent gift seems like a terrific idea, or possibly the party you’re planning is getting to be a pretty grand affair or maybe you’re just getting the plastic out a lot more than usual. If you’re comfortable with it, fine -- you can’t take it with you, after all.

1/2

Aries

BEING independent is all well and good, but sometimes you want the coziness and comfort of being in a group of like-minded independent types. Luckily you’ve got a bunch of eccentric kindred spirits you can convene when you’re a little bored and desire a little company. Telling funny stories about years past, adding to the joy that is the present and looking together to the fun of the future sounds just about right.

The Clare Echo Crossword

ACROSS

7 Slight alteration in coins of low denomination (5,6) 8 Lemons thrown in grave (6) 9 Hospital direction indicator in London borough (6) 10 Stone I removed from rough granite (6) 12 Agreement since transmitted (6) 13 Sphere concealed by floor boards (3) 14 Fighting a lawsuit (6) 16 Many compositions in written form (6) 18 Believe one side of account (6) 20 Defect in hose that’s used by firemen (6) 22 I count notes that may

MUNDANE responsibilities may be the last thing you want to deal with -- you’ve got bigger things on your mind and in your heart. However, your boss doubtless has a different take on what your priorities ought to entail. Meanwhile, your attitude is likely to be along the my-way-or-the-highway axis. You really can deal with this if you try to be a little bit obliging, and it might be a good idea to give it a whirl.

Pisces

WHATEVER inhibitions you usually harbor when it comes to talking about your feelings are being cast to the four winds, as you’re ready to communicate, communicate, communicate. Perhaps particularly when it comes to romantic matters, you really want to tell all. The trick is to carefully consider whose listening ears are going to get the earful.

Consciously employ your intuition about who the right audience is.

be disputable (11)

DOWN

1 Silly fools start off in capital (4) 2 Sort of cinema that may be entered (4,2) 3 Timber not turning - it’s drifting in the water (8) 4 Former leader in Tehran has worked hard (4) 5 French painter given some racing results (6) 6 Condemn poor scholar holding one up (8) 11 Precision in current clergyman’s office (8) 12 Perfect old instrument with a brass casing on top (8) 15 Medicament required when one has nothing to eat? (6)

17 Bloody wound, my dear chap!

(3,3) 19 Those people taken in by

Ernest Hemingway (4) 21 Soldiers may be told to stand thus for a piece of cake (4)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

QUIZ 37

THURSDAY, APR 26 2018

The Clare Echo Quiz CLARE MEDIA

FM first went to broad1GerClare cast in September, 1989, with Sweeney introducing the first

Sixmilebridge, Shannon, Newmarket on Fergus

7

song. What was it?

Scariff Bay Community Radio Clare to Here, Spancill Hill, Yellow recently was awarded an FM Submarine frequency. Is it: 94.6, 102.4, 88.3 Which businessman owns the Clare People?

Clare Echo columnist Aoibhin Domhnal Slattery, JJ McCabe, JP Garrihy and her husband John McManus Burke recently featured on an RTE show. Was it?

Broadcaster Marty Morrissey Nationwide, Tracks & Trails, is from Home of The Year Ennis, Quilty, Miltown Malbay

2

8

3

Clare Courier is based in 6The which town?

Clare Echo’s first edi10 The tion was published in which month last year?

May, August, October

ANSWERS 6. Shannon 7. 88.3 8. Tracks & Trails 9. Dr Moosajee Bhamjee 10. October

4, 5, 6

ular column?

Dr Moosajee Bhamjee, Madeleine Taylor Quinn, Tony Killeen

l OUTDOORS: Question 8. Which RTE show did Clare Echo columnist Aoibhin Garrihy and her husband John Burke recently featured on?

Spancill Hill Domhnal Slattery Quilty 1903 5

The Clare Echo employs six 5 full-time staff. How many are women?

The Clare County Express 9 comes out once a month. But which former Clare TD has a reg-

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

4

The Clare Champion was established in what year?

1903, 1923, 1942

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Lahinch Promenade, between 1896-1914

Photo by Robert French (National Library of Ireland)

'INTO THE WEST' COUNTRY MUSIC WEEKEND FRIDAY 27TH TO SUNDAY 29TH APRIL 2018

WATCH OUT FOR Jimmy Buckley Derek Ryan Michael English COMING SOON

TICKETS ON THE DOOR €15