The Clare Echo 21/12/17

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Ennistymon finally turns the Corner

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21 Dec 2017

STEP INTO MY OFFICE

STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

C

LARE County Council has lodged a planning application to develop an Inner Relief Road in Ennistymon in a bid to address longstanding traffic congestion at Blake’s Corner.

The development of the proposed Inner Relief Rd includes a new crossing of

the Inagh River approximately 80 metres upstream of the existing crossing.

The overall route runs from a point located 170 metres southeast of Blake’s Corner on the N85 Inagh to Ennistymon Road to a point located 180 metres west of Blake’s Corner on the N67 Ennistymon to Lahinch Road.

SEE MORE PAGE 6

l CUTE OUT: Rathú’s Ciara McGuane had plenty to smile about with 14-month-old Matteo at the IBYE Awards where she won ‘Best Idea’ Photo by Arthur Ellis

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Index PHONE SCAM

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BLAKE’S CORNER

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FEATURE: PAGE 9

How to tell if you’re a ‘Sham’

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POLITICAL FUN THE SCENE

Inside The Clare Echo

This week Kilrush native Elaine Tubridy digs into the memory bank to discuss the unique aspects of growing up in the wonderful West Clare town

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ART COMPETITION COMMUNITY

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MOTORING

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CLASSIFIEDS

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GET IN TOUCH

SCENE: PAGE 14-15

Pictures of the IBYE Awards

NEWS: PAGE 4

Decision on Doonbeg

CLARE’S best young entrepreneurs have been honoured at the County Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition which was held in Ennis last weekend

Clare County Council is due to make a decision on whether to grant planning permission for Donald Trump’s coastal protection in Doonbeg

THE CLARE ECHO

The Square, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021 Email: news@clareecho.ie

EDITOR Telephone: 065 671 9021 Email: editor@clareecho.ie

NEWSDESK Telephone: 065 671 9021 Email: news@clareecho.ie

NOTES

l GOOD CAUSE: Mayor of Clare Tom McNamara donating his Mayoral Christmas Card allowance (€400 each) to Clare Crusaders Children’s Clinic, Kilmaley Daycare Centre and Clarecastle District Daycare Centre. He said: “I am delighted to contribute my Christmas Card allowance to the respective fundraising efforts of these organisations.”

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Telephone: 065 671 9021

70 new Clare jobs

Email: elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

SALES Telephone: 065 671 9021

Email: ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie ger.naughton@clareecho.ie

PLACE AN

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

ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie

B

ECKMAN Coulter, which develops, manufactures and markets products that simplify, automate and innovate complex biomedical testing, is expanding the company’s development and manufacturing facility at Lismeehan, County Clare, creating the jobs over the next two to three years.

Minister of State for Employment and Small Business Pat Breen TD welcomed the announcement and said the expansion is a great win for the region.

“This is a great boost for Clare and the Mid-West Region. This expansion now places Beckman Coulter to the

forefront of the biomedical testing industry and the investment made by the company also allows for ongoing growth of current product streams,” he added.

The company’s 9,700 sq. metre site at Lismeehan is a strategic site for the global Beckman Coulter Diagnostics business, with 330 people working there.

The expansion will provide capacity for two new product streams at the Clare site, and will also provide for the ongoing growth of the current product streams.

Recruitment for the new positions will commence immediately. Roles include scientist, engineering quality, manufacturing and other support functions.

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THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

NEWS 3

Golden Ticket Almost 10pc drop in Clare in Newmarket

T

HE Clare Echo is delighted to announce the winner of The Clare Echo Golden Ticket competition, which was brought to our readers thanks to Ennis Expert Electrical, Manix Menswear, Haven Pharmacy Holly’s and the County Boutique.

Patricia O’Flanagan from Newmarket on Fergus said she was shocked to discover the Golden Ticket in her local Eurospar when she opened up the first issue of the newspaper on October 19.

The Golden Ticket was placed at random inside one of 12,000 copies of The Clare Echo when the first edition dropped on October 19, with the finder winning vouchers worth a total of €1,000 split equally between Ennis Expert Electrical, Manix Menswear, Haven Pharmacy Holly’s and the County Boutique.

Patricia said: “I’m thrilled. It was a shock when I found it and I didn’t know what to do.

“I’m sure my daughter Nicola has

plans for it too [the voucher].”

She added: “Thank you very much to all the businesses that contributed to this voucher and to The Clare Echo.”

farmers

ELAINE TUBRIDY

elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

l Winner: Patricia O’Flanagan with Eurospar manager Derek Coyle

MANUFACTURING is the biggest employer in Co Clare, according to new figures released by the Central Statistics Office, which also revealed that one in five of Clare’s unemployed are non-nationals.

In April 2016 the manufacturing sector accounted 14 per cent of all employment, amounting to a total of 6,888 workers. The wholesale and retail trade was the next largest, with 5,523 workers (11 per cent).

The top five was completed by human health and social work activities (10 per cent), education (nine per cent) and agriculture, forestry and fishing (seven per cent).

The 3,423 persons working in the Agriculture, forestry and fishing sector

was 328 fewer than in 2011 (-8.7 per cent). A further 2,525 (five per cent) worked in construction, compared with 2,388 five years previously.

Total unemployment in the county at the time of the census stood at 7,018 giving an unemployment rate of 12.4 per cent, compared with 18.8 per cent in April 2011.

This is lower than the national unemployment rate recorded by Census 2016, which stood at 13 per cent. Of the unemployed in Co Clare, 666 (9.5 per cent) were first-time job seekers.

Among Clare’s unemployed, 81.4 per cent were Irish nationals, compared with 82.6 per cent in 2011, while 18.6 per cent were non-Irish nationals, up from 17.4 per cent five years previously.

4 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

l GOOD CAUSE: Trisha Rynne & PJ Fitzgerald of Dulick handing over a cheque for €10,000 from their charity Micra Test Drive event to Mary Moloney, Cahercalla Hospice

Decision due on Trump wall

Council to make call on 256 metre coastal protection wall in Doonbeg ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie

C

LARE County Council are due to make a decision on Donald Trump’s application to build a defensive sea wall in Doonbeg by the end of this week.

Trump International Golf Links Limited have applied for full planning permission to build “coastal erosion management works”, following major storm damage in recent years. Winter storms swept away much of the beach and one of the golf holes along with it.

Donald’s son Eric made it clear that the resort would close if it was denied permission to build a sea wall.

The first planning application was

rejected and Mr Trump’s representatives have since changed up the plans.

The Donald wants to build a 256 metre wall stretching along the dunes and create a store of sand to replenish his golf course when needs be.

The Council has received dozens of submissions from the public and environmental charity An Taisce, however there is local support for the coastal protection barrier to be built to preserve local jobs. An Taisce claim their original concerns have not been addressed.

“It is the considered opinion of An Taisce that the further information submitted for the subject application has failed to address the key ecological and geomorphological concerns expressed about the original application by the Planning Authority,” their report reads.

Clare elderly caught out by phone scam ENNIS Gardaí have confirmed that a number of elderly Clare residents have been caught out by a phone scam.

The scam involves receiving a call from a foreign number, which stops ringing before the person has a chance to answer it.

If the recipient rings the number back and they are kept on the line, the person is often charged exorbitant telephone fees.

“This is a scam. A num-

ber of elderly people have been caught out,” confirmed Clare Crime Prevention Officer Sergeant Joe Downey.

Calls have been known to come from countries such as Madagascar, Comoros Islands, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Belgium.

The scam is targetting all networks and many people in Clare have reported getting calls from a number starting with +212 which is the prefix for Morocco.

ComReg (Commission for Communications Regulation), advises people not to answer calls from phone numbers they do not recognise and do not call them back if they do not leave a message.

They also advise to contact your service provider if the calls persist.

So maybe get in touch with friends who may not be the best with technology and warn them about the scam.

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THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

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NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Woman trapped in car after crashing into ditch PAT FLYNN

A

news@clareecho.ie

MOTORIST was left trapped for an hour in her car after it left the road and crashed into a ditch in Co

Clare.

The single-vehicle collision happened at around 3.30am last Saturday morning on the R460 Inagh to Miltown Malbay road.

The woman, who was the sole occupant of the car, raised the alarm by calling 999 on her mobile phone.

She told emergency services operators that she was travelling towards Quilty but couldn’t tell where exactly she was.

She also confirmed that the car was on its side and she was unable to exit.

Two garda patrols and two units of the fire brigade from Ennis commenced a search of the R460 in both directions from Inagh.

It’s understood the driver was trapped in the car for over an hour

l

ACCIDENT: The woman was unable to climb out of the overturned vehicle near Inagh

before she managed to to climb out and up onto the ditch.

She then walked over a mile towards Inagh where she was met on the road by emergency services close to Cloonanaha Church.

She was assessed at the scene by ambulance paramedics but did not require hospitalisation.

The woman directed fire crews to the scene of the crash where they located the Peugeot convertible car on its side in a ditch about six feet below road level.

It’s also understood that several vehicles passed the scene without seeing the car in the ditch.

Gardaí confirmed the woman had a lucky escape and was fortunate not to have been seriously injured.

The occupants of two other cars also escaped injury following separate incidents on the N85 Ennis to Ennistymon road overnight on Saturday.

Both vehicles left the road but no one was hurt.

Pedestrian zone in plan for Blake’s Corner CLARE County Council has lodged a planning application to develop an Inner Relief Road in Ennistymon in a bid to address longstanding traffic congestion at Blake’s Corner.

The development of the proposed Inner Relief Rd includes a new crossing of the Inagh River approximately 80 metres upstream of the existing crossing.

The overall route runs from a point located 170 metres southeast of Blakes Corner on the N85 Inagh to Ennistymon Road to a point located 180 metres west of Blakes Corner on the N67 Ennistymon to Lahinch Road.

The development also includes pedestrianisation of the existing bridge.

The Part 8 Planning Application is being lodged by Clare County Council following extensive consultation with Transport Infrastructure Ireland. Earlier this year, the Part 8 Planning process was confirmed by An Bord Pleanála as the appropriate planning route for the proposed infrastructure project.

It is anticipated that a Planning Report on the forthcoming Part 8 planning process will be presented to the April Monthly Meeting of Clare County Council for consideration.

SEASON’S GREETINGS 7

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Merry Christmas & A Happy New Year Fianna Fáil would like to wish all readers a happy and prosperous Christmas and New Year

Bill Chambers

Pat Daly

Clare Colleran Molloy

Tom McNamara

Michael Hillary

Pat Hayes

Richard Nagle

Cathal Crowe

Alan O’Callaghan

Tony O’Brien

Nollaig Shona Duit

8 SEASON’S GREETINGS

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from

Howard Crimmins Solicitors, Shannon

Happy Christmas and Happy New Year from Connolly O’Neill, Solicitors, Ennis

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Brian McMahon, Isobel O’Dea and Bernard Mullen Wood Quay, Ennis, Co Clare Phone (065) 6828405 www.mmodsolicitors.ie

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

NICHOLAS NOLAN

SOLICITORS ENNIS

Would like to wish you all a Happy Christmas and New Year

Peace and happiness for Christmas and the New Year from all at Michael Houlihan & Partners 9/11 Bindon Street, Ennis

Kerin Hickman & O’Donnell, Solicitors, Ennis wish you Happy Christmas and New Year

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

NEWS 9

You know you’re from Kilrush when... l HAPPY MEMORIES: A lot of Kilrush people have special memories of growing up in the West Clare capital town

Photo by Charles O’Neil via Flickr

Did you learn to drive in the woods? This week Clare Echo reporter Elaine Tubridy explores some of the quirky aspects of growing up as a ‘Sham’

K

ILRUSH – from Cappa pier to the cricket field and the handball alley to the woods, this West Clare town is a pretty special place to grow up.

Anyone who was lucky enough to spend their days here will instantly recognise every single memory on this list and plenty more besides.

Go on the Shams!.

1

Walking around the convent. Easily the eeriest building in Kilrush, the old convent has been closed now for about 20 years. Everyone was warned to stay away from it as kids, but that didn’t stop youngsters from wandering around the grounds, drinking in the overgrown gardens and generally getting up to mischief.

2

Hanging out in the library after school. The library was the place to be after school back in the noughties.

It was the best place to hang out and “do homework”, but really the school bags were piled at the door and great chats were had with friends. It was also where the internet was kept, as no-one had home computers in those days.

3

The UNREAL sweet shops. Two of the best sweet shops in the whole world are located in Kilrush. Only open during the summer months, ‘Jimmy’s’ had an unbelievable collection of penny sweets. Poor Jimmy has since passed on, but his sweets will never be forgotten. O’Brien’s corner shop also had a fantastic stock; enough to empty any kid’s pocket money stash.

4

Swimming in Cappa. Ah, to be that fit again. Walking or cycling out to Cappa (below) on the long summer days for a two hour swim with your friends and strolling back to town again without a bother. Jumping off the back wall was reserved for only the bravest.

5

Walking home from a night out in the Galleon in heels. All of the ladies will relate to this one (maybe even some of the guys). The Galleon is a great spot for a night out and many’s the shindig that was had there. After a few orange juices, it inevitably seems like a good idea to strut (stagger) the mile home to town in six inch heels.

Bring the high viz jacket next time.

6

Hooleys in the Square. When you see that truck pulling up at the square (above) and the massive floorboards going down, you know you’re in for an evening of mighty craic. Stand too close to the dancefloor and you could suddenly find yourself in the middle of the Siege of Ennis, giving it socks as you’re whirled around the place.

7

Learning to drive in the woods.

Every single person who grew up in Kilrush had a driving lesson with a parent/

older sibling/person with no regard for their personal safety at some point in the Kilrush Woods. With perfectly smooth tarmac, gentle bends and low speed limit, it was the perfect place to learn (once you were insured of course).

8

Christmas Eve Mass for the choir.

While many of us no longer regularly go to Mass on a Sunday, the Christmas Eve Mass in St Senan’s church draws a huge crowd without fail. The mass is legendary for the music provided by the stunning choir. It’s a beautiful way to start the Christmas season and everyone leaves the church floating on air.

9

Walking up the windiest street in the world. Speaking of which, Frances St MUST be the windiest street of all time.

With Kilrush Marina perched at the end of the street, it’s no wonder small children have been known to be carried away by the wind.

Even on the balmiest days, one only has to stick their nose outside the post office to blow away the cobwebs.

10

Coffey’s curry chips.

‘Nuff. Said.

10 SEASON’S GREETINGS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

NEWS 11

DNA atlas reveals Clare ancestry

ELAINE TUBRIDY

elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

Ben (6) meets rugby heroes l

BIRTHDAY BASH: Munster stars popped in to celebrate Ben Reidy’s birthday

ELAINE TUBRIDY

H

IT SEEMS much of the people in Co Clare may not be from Co Clare at all, according to a new study.

A new Irish DNA Atlas has shown that much of Co Clare’s population actually came from Central Ireland and Connacht.

“County Clare was originally under the rule of the people of Connacht, until being eventually acquired by Munster.

“Our analysis mirrors this history, showing that individuals with recent ancestry from Co Clare are a mixture of genetic groups found both in Munster and in Connacht,” the report reads.

The report also comes with a nifty map, showing exactly where the clusters of Connacht and Central Ireland ancestors can be found.

The results reveal that there is a

elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

OW cute is little Ben Reidy in his Munster jersey?

Ben Reidy is a very special six year old from Co. Clare who is fighting a terrible life threatening illness.

The Share a Dream Foundation, with the help of Ben’s mum, surprised Ben with a visit from his heroes and an epic birthday party.

To the absolute delight of Ben’s family and the 50 plus that were attending in walked not just one but five of the Munster squad to make this a really magical Christmas present for Ben and his family.

Jean Kleyn, Alex Wooton, Jaco Taute, Rhys Marshall and Sam Arnold all popped in to wish Ben a

happy birthday.

“For children fighting terrible life threatening illnesses Share a Dream move heaven and earth to make their fondest dreams come true,” Shay said.

Dreamland, a purpose built all-inclusive accessible indoor play centre, was closed down to the public to give Ben, his family and friends a sixth birthday party they would remember for years to come.

“We can’t thank Munster rugby enough for always being there and helping us bring a little magic into the lives of children who are fighting an uphill battle against terrible life threatening illnesses,” said Shay Kinsella.

“The five lads were all wonderful ambassadors and are truly, caring young men who spent so much time with little Ben, thank you so much”, he added.

Dr Michael Harty TD Constituency Office 3 Daly Villa's, Carmody Street, Ennis, County Clare Tel No: 065-6868505 Email michael.harty@oireachtas.ie Clinics every Monday and Friday by appointment

Wishing all my Constituents a very happy Christmas and New Year.

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WISHING ALL MY CONSTITUENTS AND FRIENDS A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR

virtual wall between Munster and Leinster, which could signify a historical rivalry between Munster and Leinster.

The new research shows that Ireland is largely made up of 10 distinct geographical clusters, seven of which are Celtic.

The 12 authors of the report claim the study could help further the study of genetic diseases in Ireland.

“Our work informs on Irish history, and by outlining fine-scale structure across the island, we hope can aid the study of genetic diseases within Ireland, and others populations with Irish ancestry,” the report reads.

The full report is available at www. nature.com/articles/s41598-017-171244#Abs1.

06/12/2016 14:57:39

12 FEATURE

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Tiny cardis for tiny tots

Shannon woman knits for preemie babies ELAINE TUBRIDY

S

elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

l AWARD RECIPIENT: Clare Person of the Year John Burke

Photo by Arthur Ellis

HANNON woman Mairead Monahan has come up with the sweetest plan to help the tiniest people in our society.

She is knitting tiny cardigans for preemie babies to wear when they come out of their incubators at University Maternity Hospital Limerick.

The idea came about when Mairead decided she needed to do something to take her mind off her struggles with her mental health.

She visited the maternity hospital and the nurses there told Mairead they needed cardigans to keep the tiny babies cosy.

I used to knit when my kids were smaller and then when I started again and I found that I was a bit rusty,” Mairead said.

Mairead tried to knit four cardigans, but

found that they weren’t good enough to send in to the hospital.

She posted an appeal on Shannon Community Group and she was overwhelmed with the response she got.

The post has received 60 comments and people who cannot knit have even offered to donate money to buy wool.

“It’s just lovely the amount of people that want to help, and this time of year as well,” Mairead said.

There is no timeframe to complete the cardigans, but Mairead is hopeful that with all the extra help, she will be able to drop the cardigans to the hospital soon.

Send Mairead a Facebook message to get involved with this great cause: h t t p s : / / w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / p r o f i l e . php?id=100008223139291

How to cope with suicide bereavement at Christmas CHRISTMAS can be a period of joy for some people. For others, it is a time of sadness and memories. This is particularly so for people who are grieving the loss of a loved one who died by suicide.

When someone close to you, either in your immediate family or a friend, dies by suicide your whole world is torn apart.

The suicide causes pain and shock followed by disbelief, denial, sadness loss and anger. There is a need to come to terms with the event and the endless questioning – why? The questioning goes on and on together with confusion and pain which at times seems overpowering.

Occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and festive occasions can be difficult for the bereaved. Coming home for Christmas is a special event in many homes. Where there is loss and particularly loss by suicide there is the empty space, memories, sadness and pain. Sharing one’s feelings with another family member or friend helps to ease the pain and confusion. This is not always easy as the other person is equally in pain and talking and

sharing feelings creates a fear of inflicting more pain.

A spokesperson said: “Being aware of the difficulty of sharing feelings within the family circle, Clare Suicide Bereavement Support Volunteers are available to offer help and support. Help is only a phone call away. When you ring one of our numbers arrangements can be made to meet a Support Worker either at the Clare S.B.S. premises in the Roslevan Shopping Centre, in the caller’s home or another agreed location. The person you will meet is trained for this work and is aware that coping with feelings, following the death of a loved one, can be difficult and believe that talking about these feelings can help. The support given is confidential and free.”

In addition Clare S.B.S. offer a Healing Programme which is a structured series of group meetings – one evening a week over eight weeks. Clare Suicide Bereavement Support can be contacted at 087 3698315, 086 0565373 and more info is available at claresuicidebereavementsupport.com.

FEATURE 13

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Closure ‘major loss’ to Ennis ELAINE TUBRIDY elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

CLOSING: The charity shop in the Market, Ennis

VOLUNTEERS at the Cahercalla Community Nursing Home and Hospice Shop have expressed their disappointment that the charity shop is closing.

The volunteers have been working in the shop since it opened three years ago and they all have connections to Cahercalla.

Volunteer Maria said the shop is more than just a source of income for the charity and acts as a com-

MABS move STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

MABS, the State’s Money Advice and Budgeting Service, is advising people not to let financial pressure take over this Christmas while also directing people to their new premises in Ennis.

There’s huge pressure to have a ‘perfect Christmas’, with all the trimmings. Yet, for many families, the countdown to Christmas day can become overwhelming, both emotionally and financially.

“People don’t like to admit that

they have money worries at this time of the year, but it’s a daily reality for many households and trying to hide your worries sometimes makes things worse” a MABS spokesperson said.

For anyone feeling financial pressure at this time of year Clare MABS is asking people to not suffer in silence; “Contact Clare MABS before Christmas. We‘ll help with any urgent difficulties and help you make a plan and support you next year.”

Clare MABS can be contacted at: 0761 072 430 Monday to Friday 9am5pm. Our new premises is located at 7 The Mall, Clare Road, Ennis

fort for people.

“I feel like it’s going to be a major loss to the town because people don’t just come in here to buy stuff, they come in here for a chat. It’s kind of somewhere for people to go as well on a rainy day,” she added.

In a statement received by The Clare Echo, management at the Cahercalla Community Nursing Home and Hospice cited increasing costs.

“Cahercalla Community Hospital & Hospice has recently announced that the Cahercalla Hospice Charity Shop will not re-open in the New Year. The decision, which is regrettable, is due to the increasing costs associated with running the shop.

“We would like to sincerely thank all our patrons and volunteers who have sup-

ported the Charity Shop and look forward to working with you on future fundraising activities”.

The volunteers wanted to highlight what they referred to as a lack of support from management at the Cahercalla Community Nursing Home and Hospice.

The volunteers also wished to thank the part time shop manager for her dedication to the charity shop.

“Her tireless devotion to the shop has ensured its continued success, but in reality it was impossible for her to sustain this work load as it was having a severe impact on her health,” they said.

14 AWARDS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

The Scene

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YOUNG GUNS: Ciara O’Halloran of Redbank Food Co was named overall ‘Best Young Entrepreneur’ at the IBYE competition in Ennis last week

North Clare star shines at IBYE awards night

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Redbank Food’s Ciara O’Holloran tastes success as best young entrepreneur

C

LARE’S best young entrepreneurs have been honoured at the County Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition, which took place in the Buttermarket Building in Ennis last Thursday.

IBYE, which has a €2 million investment fund, is run by all 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) and is supported by the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation.

Local Enterprise Office Clare named Ciara O’Halloran of Redbank Food Co as overall “Best Young Entrepreneur”. The New Quay-based entrepreneur also won the ‘Best Established Business’ category and an investment fund from LEO Clare worth €15,000.

The other main category winners were Cristiona Ni hIcí of Ceile (Lahinch) in the ‘Best Start Up’ cate-

gory and Ciara McGuane of Rathú (Ennis) in the ‘Best Idea’ category.

The top prize in the ‘Best Start Up’ category was €15,000, with a top prize of €7,000 for the ‘Best Idea’ category. All three category winners will now be representing Clare at one of eight IBYE Regional Finals, taking place during January and February 2017.

Meanwhile, the category runners-up also shared a combined investment of €13,000. They were Barry McMackin of Fintech.ie in the ‘Best Business Idea’ category, Oonagh Minogue of Classes 4 Kids in the ‘Best Start Up Business’ category and Conor Murray of Kilkee Forge in the ‘Best Established Business’ category.

“The vast majority of all businesses in Clare are micro-enterprises and it is reassuring to see that the strong entrepreneurial spirit that has always existed in Clare is continuing to produce

ambitious and competent young business people,” stated Cllr. Tom McNamara, Mayor of Clare.

The Mayor continued, “Supported locally by Clare County Council – through Local Enterprise Office Clare - I want to commend each of the finalists who collectively have shown their ability to generate a range of new business ideas and new employment opportunities for the wider community.”

Pat Breen, TD. Minister of State with special responsibility for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, said: “The success of the IBYE competition since its inception in 2014 and the wonderful young entrepreneurs who have used the competition as a platform to success is truly inspiring. Clare has been successful to date in the competition, with Damien Mason of Flexibod winning Runner Up in the Best Idea category at the National

IBYE competition in 2016. Damien has continued to build his business and is achieving great success in the US to date.”

“I have no doubt having met with all the young entrepreneurs here tonight and heard about their businesses that this trend will continue,” he added.

Commenting on the role played

by Local Enterprise Office Clare in supporting small business, Minister Breen said, “The LEO’s have a broad remit to disseminate all information in relation to State supports for small and micro businesses and deliver quality access to several national and local programmes focused on new business start-ups and micro business in a pro-business environment. The quality of the businesses being showcased here today demonstrates that the support structure for enterprise development at local level is having a significant impact.”

The primary purpose of the IBYE initiative is a springboard for young entrepreneurs in Clare who want to start or expand a business,” explained Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Clare.

He added, “We are committed to providing a ‘first stop shop’ for enterprise supports and sign-posting to start-ups, micro enterprises and small businesses locally in one easily accessible place. Our role in coordinating IBYE locally is part of our ongoing efforts to help Clare’s young entrepreneurs progress their business aspirations and to create much needed employment in Clare.”

“I congratulate all of this year’s award winners and wish the category winners every success as they progress now to represent Clare at the upcoming Regional finals in late January,” concluded Mr. McElwee.

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

AWARDS 15

READING UP: Pictured are Farah Burma, Fitz and Filly with Jack Fitzgerald Photos by Arthur Ellis

TEA-RIFFIC NIGHT: Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Clare, Anne Treanor and Sarah Treanor, Bells and All Photo by Arthur Ellis

PROUD MOMENT: Tiago Pedro with Matteo Pedro (14 months) and Best Idea Winner 2017 Ciara McGuane, Rathu Photos by Arthur Ellis

DELIGHT: Mayor of Clare Tom McNamara and Laura Jane Allis, Break Through Dance Photo by Arthur Ellis

JOKING AROUND: Mayor of Clare Cllr Tom McNamara, Best Idea Runner Up Marry McMackin, Fintech.ie and Pat Breen TD, Minister of State with special responsibility for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection Photos by Arthur Ellis

16 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

instagram.com/ theclareecho

Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

‘The Die Hard question should be asked of all candidates at each election from now on!’

Eoin Ó Nialláin in reaction to our story ‘Three out of four Clare Councillors prefer real ones’

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week PODGE COLLINS

@podgecollins ‘Over 200k raised nationwide for charities supporting the homeless. All funds raised in limerick will be going to Novas and Thomand House. The Clare Hurlers raised 18.7k online. To all organisers who took action, this will hopefully make a difference. Thanks to all supporters!’

THIS VIDEO WAS VIEWED 3,900 TIMES ON FACEBOOK A trip to Gerry Keane’s home in Ennis will be sure to put you in the Christmas spirit!

EVER start out with one or two decorations, and then all of a sudden your house is a Christmas explosion?

This is what happened to Ennis man Gerry Keane’s gaff.

Gerry started with a modest yet sparkly Santa and reindeer set on his roof and before he knew it, his home became one of the most Christmassy houses in Co Clare.

“I keep adding to it every year. It’s a bit of madness, but look I enjoy it and it’s a bit of fun,” Gerry said.

Following a suggestion from Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard, Gerry collected donations from people stopping to check

out the dazzling display last year.

“We decided then that we would do it for Pieta House last year and we got €450,” Gerry said.

Gerry’s mother passed away in June of this year and Gerry decided to pay tribute to the care she received in Milford Hospice.

“I just consider it a hugely worthy cause. The work they do there is just unbelievable and we thought they were really deserving of it,” he added.

Those wishing to donate can drop by Gerry’s house and leave donations in the box outside Gerry’s house.

ART COMPETITION 17

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Art competition winners revealed The Clare Echo is delighted to announce the winners of the Winter Art Competition in association with Western Motors, Toymaster and Tierney’s Cycles.

We were overwhlemed with the high level of entries, with almost 300 children from schools across the county submitting stunning artwork.

Prizes include a VW boys bicycle and a huge lego set with thanks to Western Garages; €50 in vouchers from Toymaster Ennis; and a selection of toys from Tierney’s on Abbey Street in Ennis.

Ennis-based artist Elaine, who starred on RTE’s Paint The Nation television this year, was on hand to judge the competition and she said she was overwhlemed by the standard of entry.

“The paintings were so varied and the

use of colour was brilliant, all entrants should be very proud of themselves, it was very hard to pick a winner.”

Winners can contact The Clare Echo on 065 671 9021 to claim their prizes.

RESULTS U6 Runner Up: Hadi IJaz Ghazi Winner: Nicole Coffey U9 Runner Up: Armandas Pucinskas Wiiner: Dylan Williams U12 Runner Up: Mahia Rahman Winner: Evan Ó’Cualaín U15 Winner: Muavia Ghazi

HO HO HO: Evan O’Cualaín had Santa reading up on his Clare news

MAGICAL: The winner in the U9 category was this beauty from Dylan Williams

WINTER WONDERLAND: Winner in the U15 category was Muavia Ghazi with this stunning winter scene.

LET IT SNOW: U6 runner up Hadia Ijaz Ghazi

STUNNING: Mahia Rahman (aged 12) blew us away with this effort of a snowman beside a river

JINGLE BELLE: U6 winner Nicole Coffey’s painting

HATS OFF: U9 runner up Azmandas Pucinskas entered this stunning Santa portrait

Entertainment

COMEDY FUN FOR ALL OF THE FAMILY

B

RENDAN GRACE, Irelands’s best loved family comedian is looking forward to his annual after Christmas Tour, which commences on December 29 and concludes at Cork Opera House on February 3.

He is celebrating his 46th year in showbiz and most of that time at the very top of his profession during those five decades.

Brendan is truly a national institution. The genial dubliner is totally at home in rural Ireland, where where so many people have taken him to their hearts.

His latest show features some of the best and most requested pieces from his vast repertoire in addition to new material and he presents it all with a wonderful appreciation

for his ever loyal audience. Respect always comes to mind when one thinks of Brendan Grace and his ability to retain the fondness and effection of his Irish audiences.

Cynicism and foul-mouthed language has never been part of Brendan’s repertoire. Together with his wife Eileen and family, they have resided in Florida since 1994 but Brendan always looks forward to returning to Ireland to perform, where retains a wonderful empathy with his audience and his ‘Meet and Greet’ after each show is one of the highlights of the evening. l You can catch Brendan with

his guest ‘Showband Nostalgia’ at Treacy’s West County Hotel.

Wednesday January 3. Tickets €30 at Hotel Tel.065-6869600 and Ticketmaster.ie

lGOOD GRACE: Brendan is one of Ireland’s best loved comedians

SHANNON TEAMS UP WITH MUNDY FOR AN EXCITING SERIES OF CONCERTS

lBANNER BOUND: Mundy

TO CELEBRATE the 10th anniversary of Galway Girl being the number 1 download track of 2007, Sharon Shannon and band with special guest Mundy are doing a limited amount of shows together during the Christmas period. Shannon, whose latest album Sacred Earth was released to critical acclaim this year along with Mundy, High Kings, Frances Black and Paddy Moloney of the Chieftains appeared on a Ray Darcy show special in early November. l Sharon Shannon and Mundy will be playing Treacy’s West County Hotel, Ennis on Friday December 29.

ENTERTAINMENT 19

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

lHOME TURF: Ruan native Sharon Shannon

lPOPULAR: The Star of Munster Céilí Band

St. Stephen’s Night Céilí at Cois na hAbhna with The Star of Munster Céilí Band ON TUESDAY, December 26 Cois na hAbhna is delight to play host to The Star of Munster Céilí Band.

The Star of Munster Céilí Band is one of the most popular Céilí Bands in the area and have been together for some time now. They play an excellent selection of Reels, Jigs, Polkas and Hornpipes.

The line-up of Sean Murphy on Accordion, Ralph Morgan on Banjo, Fintan McMahon on Keyboard and Dave Culligan on Drums ensures that there will be plenty of lively music guaranteed to burn off all those Christmas calories!! Enjoy!

Bígí Linn ag Cois na hAbhna.

Dancing 9.30pm - 12.30am Admission €10

TREACY’S WEST COUNTY HOTEL, ENNIS

FRIDAY DECEMBER 29TH, DOORS 8PM Tickets priced €25 available from www.treacyswestcounty.com & ticketmaster

Sport

Ennis Track run amuck

W

HAT a fantastic way to close out the cross country season for the Ennis Track Club, who competed in Waterford with a tough hilly course which pushed all athletes to their limits and provided some sterling performances.

Gold medals were delivered for the Clare side in the form of Ennis Track U15 Boys. Individually Dean Casey finished second, ahead of Dylan Casey in eighth, Mark Hanrahan in 31st,

Conor Shanahan 47th, Matthew Power in 50th and Colin Ryan in 89th.

Ennis Track U17 Girls landed a silver thanks to the efforts of Leah O’Neill (eighth), Laura Healy in 12th, Ella Doherty in 63rd, Elise Mulcaire in 78th and Lisa Whelan in 79th.

The Ennis Track U19 Boys also landed silver thanks to Conor Devane (11th), Bakhit Khamis Barra (29th), James Whelan (33rd) and Ricky Mulcaire (48th).

Clonlara GOAL Mile Now in its 36th year, the www.goalglobal.org event sees tens of thousands of participants run, jog or walk a Mile and raise funds and awareness for GOAL’s programmes in the developing world.

Come along to take part in the inaugural Clonlara GOAL Mile event on Christmas Day from 9am to 12noon in Doonass (Clonlara GAA Club). The event takes place on grass, so suitable to walk, jog or run. No need to register, just turn up on the day & donate what you can. For information contact Eileen Gleeson 0874131750 or pro.truagh.clare.camogie@gmail.com.

Camogie stars join sleepout On Saturday night 47 people representing all codes across the GAA family took part in a sleep out on O’Connell Street Limerick.

Players from Clare Camogie, Clare GAA, Clare Ladies Football were joined by their counterparts in Limerick & Tipperary as they helped to raise awareness of the issue of homelessness in Ireland.

On the night they raised over €8,000 to go along with the funds raised online which now totals over €200K. Meanwhile, the Clare Camogie Annual

Awards Night will take place in Treacy’s West County Hotel Ennis on January 5th 2018 at 8pm sharp. Tickets cost €15 for minors and €20 for adults.

Pictured right are members of the Clare Camogie Senior panel who took part Back: Carol O’Leary, Zoe McInerney, Brid MacNamara, Laura McMahon, Joe O’Donnell, Ciara Grogan &Aoife Keane.

Front:Sarah Loughnane, Chloe Morey, Ciara Doyle, Deanna Considine & Andrea O’Keeffe

l SUCCESS: (Top) The U19 Ennis Track boys team which landed a team silver medal; (left) Leah O’Neill and Laura Healy who both finished highly in the U17 Girls event and (right) the Casey twins

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

SPORT 21

GAELIC VOICES FOR CHANGE

l SLEEPOUT: Members of the Clare hurling, camogie and football teams slept out in Limerick last weekend and contributed to a whopping €200,000 which was raised for a Photo by Lauren Guilfoyle selection of charities. Pictured here is hurlers Conor Cleary, Colm Galvin, David Fitzgerald and Oisín O’Brien at the event last Saturday night

22 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas

 SYMBOL: The Christ child is a symbol of love, light, hope, compassion, mercy and peace

It’s easy to get caught up in the rush

W

ITH all the rushing and racing about of the Christmas season upon us and most people in full throttle at the moment with only a few days to go to that special of all days, it is easy to get lost in all of the festivities, shopping, parties, cooking, eating, drinking and gift giving. There’s so much to do and so little time to do it as we get closer to Christmas Eve. Many of us I am afraid have forgotten the true meaning of Christmas and what it really represents and what we should believe it to be. Christmas is really about the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Jesus represents real love, forgiveness, mercy and compassion towards each of us and our fellow human beings on this journey called life. I believe through my personal faith that we are all God’s children and we should treat each other as we ourselves would want and like to be treated and loved.

It is so important because of that belief and especially at this time of the year to think of the less fortunate and the most needy and vulnerable in our communities and our world especially our ever growing number of homeless people and children. We must be continually challenged by the circumstances and the place of our Saviors birth on the edges of society. We must always remember those who may not have gifts under a Christmas tree or a warm house or a bed to wake up in on Christmas morning or have no food or drink to have on that day or any day or are homeless or are facing into another day of war or famine or drought.

God loves us so much and all he asks is that we show that same love, care, forgiveness, empathy and mercy to one another and everyone that we can help and support in someway. That is the real beautiful meaning of giving to others during the Christmas season and it helps us to realise that nothing is impossible as long as we believe in God and in one another.

While for so many people the Christmas season is about materialism and commercialism and keeping up with a hectic schedule, we should all try to where possible now and then to slow things down and take some time out to not only appreciate, focus and meditate on the true meaning of Christmas but also to embrace the true spirit of Christmas. Emotionally this is a difficult time of

the year for so many people and families in our midst and on the edges of our communities and our world. Also the stress of the Christmas season if one is not careful builds upon stress to destroy the holiday cheer of many. The underlying problem for so many people and indeed young people is that they focus all their energy on what they do not have rather than embracing what they do have and that for me is what the Christmas spirit is all about focusing on what you have within you and around you and treating others the way you would like to be treated, cared for and loved. The true meaning of Christmas is to celebrate the birth of Christ.

The Christ child is a symbol of love, light, hope, compassion, mercy and peace that makes this such a joyful season for true believers. However, even among the believers, there are some for which this message is not enough to overcome the depression, anger and stress of the season and of life. That is why it is so important to embrace the true meaning of Christmas, you need to reach down within yourself into your hearts core to your soul to find the spirit of Christmas. In order to embrace the true Christmas spirit you must be willing to give.

Embrace the spirit of Christmas and find the true meaning of the season to bring more joy and happiness into your life and the lives of people in need both locally and globally. This Christmas if you can and if you believe, mend a quarrel, seek out a forgotten friend, dismiss suspicion, and replace it with trust. Write a love or forgiveness letter. Share some treasure or gift. Give a soft answer. Call. Text. Email.

Talk. Post. Encourage youth and support our elderly. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Find the time.

Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Listen.

Share. Show mercy. Apologise if you were wrong. Think first of someone else.

Appreciate. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little. Laugh a lot. Be confident. Be against malice. Decry complacency. Express your gratitude. Go to church. Pray and meditate. Walk. Run. Climb. Swim. Welcome a stranger. Feed the Hungry.

Give shelter. Visit the sick. Gladden the heart of a child or elderly person. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the

earth. Give Love. Speak your love. Speak it again and again and be a doer be. Believe.

THE DOOR OF THE INN OF OUR HEARTS

Sometimes when I am visiting my local church over the Christmas season and look and pray at our crib, I often get distracted from my prayers and wonder if the owners of the Inn ever realised who they turned away that Christmas Eve night. I wonder if a few decades down the line, they realized that it was Jesus’ mother, Mary who had come to the door and that they didn’t give her a room. They instead gave her a stable or a cave on the edges of their community, their society. At least they tried and were moved in someway to do something. Now, if this was just a story about owners of an Inn in Bethlehem who missed a chance to open the doors to Jesus,centuries upon centuries ago, I wouldn’t be writing about it now. But this isn’t about what the owners of an Inn did. It’s about what God did, and what God still does this very day and this Christmas time and always. And it’s about what we, me and you, do next. You see Jesus still comes into this world, our world and our lives today and each day. It didn’t just happen once, it happens all the time, each and everyday. Jesus knocks at the doors of our hearts all the time, and we are asked if there is room in the inn of our hearts. And sometimes we look out, and we don’t really like what we see, or we don’t like what it would mean to let Jesus in, and we close the door and say: “There’s no place for you here in the Inn of my heart”. But sometimes, even when we don’t really want to, even when we’re not sure we want to open that door up, we do anyway. And that matters. Because Christmas may be about the story that we read or hear at mass if we go to mass on Christmas Eve or Christmas Morning. But that story teaches us about more than just an event that happened centuries ago. It teaches us about opening ourselves up to what Jesus is trying to do in us in this world this very day and everyday if we but let him.

And it’s about telling Jesus that, even if we don’t know what it means yet, there is room, for him in our hearts and our lives, and we want to be part of what he is doing and we want him to lead us and guide us in our living with our fellow human beings on this

often difficult journey called life. There’s a good chance that if you go to mass at Christmas time, some part of you wants to be a part of that journey with Jesus leading us and guiding us. Some part of you wants to be a part of love made real, of God being active in our world, of a world that can change. That can change hate into love, war into peace, injustice into justice, abandoned into acceptance, illness into good health, orphaned into family, homeless into housed and cared for, unforgivable into forgiven. Some part of you wants to be a part of some type of Christmas story. Maybe not the one that’s written in the Gospels with the shepherds and the manger and the wise men, but a part of the Christmas story, nonetheless. I believe that God is still active in this world, and God is still writing the Christmas story. God is still writing the story of what happened when Christ came into this world as the Prince of Peace, and what happened next. And you can be a part of that story. The question is, do you want to be the inn that closed its doors.

Or do you want to be something else? I want to be the one who doesn’t close the doors to my heart when God is about to do something new, but the one who hears about it, and comes running. When God works in this world, I want to be a part of that story. I want to be the everyday thing, that becomes holy, not because of who I am, but because of who Christ is. I want to be a part of the story. I believe I can be.

And I also believe so can you. And so can we all if we just put our faith out there and believe in the goodness of one another and try to treat one another the way you yourself would like to be treated and loved. As usual a story from my Nana Scully’s prayer book might help.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for this Christmas week, remember it’s sometimes easy to forget that that baby born that night grew up to become an adult. And when he did, and he was asked what God wants us to do with our lives, he answered this: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and soul, and love your neighbor as yourself.” Much blessings to everyone in the Clare Echo and to you the reader, your loved ones and your family this Christmas and always.

COLUMNISTS 23

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Eoin Neylon

EDITOR’S OPINION Stuart Holly

He’ll be back, by Pope-ular demand

It appears this racist Fr Ted character isn’t far from the truth in Ireland

‘‘

Unfortunately the internet is giving these clowns a voice ... and it can often lead to a circus

‘‘

T

HERE’S an expression; “I got stuck in the weird part of Youtube”. It’s used by youngsters to describe stumbling upon a video with strange content - a video completely unrelated to what you set out to view.

Regular users of Youtube will relate to this. You watch a video of Munster rugby highlights from the weekend and all of a sudden you’re following a trail of suggested videos and next thing you’re watching a three-legged dog splashing around with a dolphin.

I’m beginning to find that more often that not, the weirdest part of Youtube however, and the internet at large, is the comments sections.

There’s a dark side to people that tends to glow strongest when they’re sitting alone at a computer screen, shielded by the invisibility of the internet.

The online format continues to develop at a rapid pace and whether we know it or not, it is already dictating how many young lives are lived.

Which brings me to a story I stumbled upon on Facebook from a national newspaper.

A former guesthouse in Killarney is being used to accommodate 55 asylum seekers, bringing warmth to a group of vulnerable people who have left their country either to find a better life or because their situation in their homeland was no longer tenable.

In reaction to the news in Killarney, a Kerry councillor by the name of Donal Grady has organised a protest over the housing of the asylum seekers saying the Government needs to ‘look after our own first’.

The weird part of the internet was at the ready in the comments section of this article; here’s just a flavour of what people were saying.

“Close our borders and look after our own instead of taking more social welfare scam artists.”

“Fair play to him our government are more concerned of how they look in front of Europe than looking after their own homeless”.

“Shouldn’t they be looking after our own homeless people first, especially when there seems to be so many and it’s such a cold winter.”

The general theme was; we don’t want to help. Look after our own first. These people are scam artists. All that was missing was burning torches, pitchforks, and an angry mob. Using the “look after our homeless” card as a deflection of what was really going on here. ‘No dogs, no blacks, no Irish’ comes to mind.

Unfortunately the internet is giving these clowns a voice, and when they notice they’re not the only ones with these opinions, it can often lead to a circus.

There’s a Fr Ted episode in which Ted is accused of being a racist and as he emerges from the parochial house a woman shouts from across a field “good for you father, someone had the guts to stand up to them at last. They’re coming in here taking our jobs and our women”.

Let’s point to the obvious. Irish people as recently as eight years ago were flocking to Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Canada and the US. Thousands and thousands of us. When the shoe is on the other foot, we need to remember how lucky we’ve been that our young people have been so freely able to live and find work around the world.

Surely anybody with a heart knows that the people of Ireland have been refugees, ostracised for their heritage.

In Ennis and Sixmilebridge this month, 51 families will be homed thanks to a scheme co-piloted by the council. The authorities are not prioritising non-nationals.

Thankfully over the last two years, here in Clare we’ve welcomed dozens of families from Syria with open arms and in the spirit of Christmas, may we continue to do so.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all our Clare Echo readers, from me, I hope it’s a safe and warm one.

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

2018 will have as many, if not more, trying times

A

S 2017 draws to a close, the Dáil has risen for the Christmas recess and we can reflect on what has been a turbulent year in Irish politics. As we enter 2018 there is still no sign of Stormont being reconvinced in the North, the life of the 32nd Dáil is hanging by a thread after several scandals, events in Westminster get more farcical by the day, the scene in the US is as bad as it was when the year started and future trade negotiations between the EU and post-Brexit UK are set to begin.

Closer to home, unemployment in Clare is dropping but so too are services in and out of Shannon airport. The tentative recovery is still only showing small signs of being felt in Clare. Roche is still without a buyer almost two years after the public were told a deal was all but done. Yet, 2017 is also set to be the best year on record for tourism.

The Cliffs of Moher broke the 1 million visitors number earlier than ever before this year, back on the 11th of August, and looks close to seeing a record 1.5 million visitors by the time the shutters are drawn at the end of this month. Meanwhile, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann was also a massive success for the county town. There are already plans afoot to draw on the positive reception the Banner’s hosting of the festival for the past two years has generated. It’s not all doom and gloom so, despite what some commentators and media outlets would have you believe.

There’s no doubt that 2018 will have as many, if not more, trying times than this year.

There is deep seated unease between the ruling Fine Gael and a Fianna Fáil party they rely on not to vote against them in the Dáil to keep their minority Government afloat.

Likewise, Sinn Féin face the prospect of a new leader for the first time since 1983, when Gerry Adams took over from their original leader, Ruairí Ó Brádaigh, who led the party in its current form since its inception in 1970. With Mary Lou McDonald at the helm, they will hope that the spectre

of the gunman can be shook from its image. In Clare, the party’s decision to run two candidates in the next General Election is a daring one.

Ballyvaughan’s Noleen Moran surprised many by getting over 4,200 first preference votes in 2016. Cllr. Mick McKee of Shannon appearing on the ballot alongside her though may well split the party’s vote, as quite a portion of that 4,200 votes came from the Shannon town boxes.

It’s a bold strategy that will require a large improvement in the party’s national vote and transfer friendliness to see them challenge for their first ever Dáil seat here. Over the past year, the party’s vote share has been static as they were outmanoeuvred in the Dáil by Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, particularly in terms of the 8th Amendment committee and the Whistleblower controversy where they were relegated to bit part players.

Adams’ time has come and gone and the politics of the 21st century do not suit him.

The change in leader is long overdue and should do much to freshen up the party. They’ll need more than that, however, to make the large-scale breakthroughs they’ve been long promising at this point.

For Fine Gael it has been a year of dramatic change with Enda Kenny ending his 15-year reign as leader of his party. The Whistleblower controversy was the final nail in the coffin for him but history will be a lot kinder to him in the long run when water charges, Maurice McCabe and property tax are long forgotten about. He made history as the first Fine Gael Taoiseach ever re-elected and has cemented in place in the annals as such.

Leo Varadkar’s honeymoon period at the helm was short lived. His time as Taoiseach was almost the shortest ever as his minority Government came within hours of falling but a recovery in the shape of a strong Brexit stance has glossed over the cracks for now. The much-heralded initial deal was scuppered by the DUP and his strongman attitude put many noses out of joint. It remains to be seen if the final agreement achieved

is binding or not though. If so, it would appear a great victory for the young Taoiseach. If not, then he will be seen to having sold Ireland’s veto at this stage of Brexit negotiations very cheaply. In Clare, both outgoing TD’s were selected as candidates next time around again with one more to be added by party HQ at a later date. Senator Martin Conway, Clare’s only representative in the Upper House, has reiterated his desire to be on the ticket. One feel though that the national gender quota percentage will have a bearing on his claim.

Fianna Fáil badly needed a win, and a big one, as the year drew on. They looked outmanoeuvred by all and sundry, trying desperately to carve out a distinct brand in Irish politics for themselves. The moral victory with the resignation off Frances Fitzgerald proved just that. It was the morale boost the party needed. However, the public largely didn’t seem to care. Hence, forcing an election on the issue was never a runner for Fianna Fáil and Leo Varadkar knew it. That’s partly the reason the Taoiseach remained steadfast in his position in the belief that FF would be blamed if people had to go to the polls over Christmas. Not to be and the confidence and supply agreement stumbles on. Locally the party’s constituency did not meet for the entirety of 2017. An unprecedented more in Clare Fianna Fáil history which has generated much disquiet amongst members.

Nonetheless, peace broke out though in the corridors of power as cross party supported legislation on recognition of Irish Sign Language was voted through by all parties, having been initially introduced by FF Senator Mark Daly. A nice touch from the supposed “do-nothing Dáil” ahead of the festive season.

A lovely way to end the 2017 business of the house with some festive cheer. Merry Christmas to all and to all a peaceful New Year.

24 TESTIMONIALS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Clare Echo supports local business

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

Here’s what some of our customers have to say about advertising in The Clare Echo

We at Moloney Fuels have had a great response to our adverts in the Clare Echo.We have seen continued growth in our sales since we began advertising and look forward to doing further business with the Clare Echo and wish the paper continued success!

Shiels Motors in Ennis is delighted to be associated with The Clare Echo. We find the publication offers excellent value on investment and the staff have always given us support when producing ads or editorial. We also continue to use The Clare Echo as a way of advertising our range of vehicles as it is delivered into people’s homes which guarantees results.

Seán Moloney Owner

Eddie Rynne

General Manager

It is a pleasure to work with the professional team at the Clare Echo. They have great ideas for design and layout, which makes the process of advertising so easy.

As a business owner who gets The Clare Echo delivered to my home every Thursday, it makes sense to advertise in this paper.

The fact that this paper is delivered to 6,000 homes in Ennis & available free of charge in all newsagents throughout the county is very encouraging for any business.

Maeve & Donagh Galvin Proprietors

Eric Flynn Proprietor

Padraig Haugh

We at Manix Menswear have developed an ongoing and successful relationship with The Clare Echo.

We have found Ciara and the Clare Echo team are fantastic to work with and their attention to detail is second to none. We are reaching our target market with the desired effect of generating business on a consistent basis at a very reasonable cost.

We would definitely recommend The Clare Echo to drive your business forward.

Congratulations to Stuart and the entire team at The Clare Echo, we are sure it will be a resounding success!

Gwen Culligan Co-owner

Proprietor

We are delighted to see a new publication in Clare which offers us a fantastic online platform on which to advertise, as well as a great free weekly publication. The Clare Echo team have been a breath of fresh air and we look forward to dealing with them in 2018.

I have found that advertising in The Clare Echo has generated extra business and Hogan Furniture & Flooring Ltd in the Quin Rd Business Park has received great feedback.

The staff are extremely helpful and I would highly recommend any business to advertise with them.

Charlie McEnery Proprietor

Contact our sales team on 065 671 9021 and watch your business grow twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

instagram.com/ theclareecho

Gearoid Hogan Owner

MERRY CHRISTMAS 25

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

l WE WISH YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS: Members of staff at The Clare Echo team including (from left) Chief Reporter Elaine Tubridy, Key Accounts manager Ger Naughton, Business Development manager Ciara Farrell, Office Manager Monica Callinan, Chief Digital Designer Ciara McEntee and Editor Stuart Holly

Wishing all our readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy 2018

The Clare Echo is giving its staff a well-earned break and the offices will be closed from Saturday, December 23, 2017 until Tuesday, January 2, 2018.

Due to this, there will be no edition on Thursday, December 28, with business as usual from Thursday, January 4.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our readers for your continual support in our first year, which has surpassed all expectations.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from all the team at The Clare Echo.

Get in touch with our news team on 065 671 9021 or email us on news@clareecho.ie twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

instagram.com/ theclareecho

26 COMMUNITY

Community

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

COUNTYWIDE Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection, Pat Breen has announced that €150,136 in funding has been granted to 36 Clare clubs under the Local Youth Club Equipment Scheme.

The Scheme was developed to support the work of volunteers, to enhance the experience of members, and to provide vital equipment to local youth clubs and groups.

Minister Breen said: “This funding will be a great benefit to youth clubs and youth projects here in Clare over the coming year.

“The Scheme was administered through the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board. The grants will assist clubs in the purchase of camping, gaming, sports and audio visual equipment. Other clubs, for example, have used the grant to purchase musical equipment which would otherwise unavailable to them,” he added.

“The diverse range of the grants awarded is reflective of the clubs which applied and the young people who partake in their activities.”

“The following Clare clubs have received funding this year: Ballyvaughan Scouts €5,000.00; Banner Spokes €5,000.00; Clarecastle Scouts €4,626.00; Clonlara Scouts €5,000.00; Clonlara Youth Club €1,891.00; Club Ogras Bhaile an Droichid €1,302.00; Coder Dojo Ennis €5,000.00; Cratloe Scout Group €4,993.00; Crusheen Youth Club €3,617.00; CYS Ennis Music Project €4,985.00; CYS Shannon Music Project €4,756.00; Doonbeg Youth Club €2,781.00; Ennis Girl Guides €4,949.00; Ennis Scouts €5,000.00; Ennistymon Scouts €2,994.00; Fishbowl Youth €2,998.00; HYPE Youth Club €4,889.00; Kildysart Youth Club €4,982.00; Killaloe Scouts €4,813.00; Kilmaley Youth Club €5,000.00; Kilnaboy Youth Club €1,909.00; Lough Graney Youth Club €4,980.00; Miltown Malbay Scouts €4,534.00; Mountshannon Scouts €2,983.00; Mullagh Youth Club €1,943.00; Newmarket Scouts €3,003.00; Order of Malta Cadets, Shannon €4,968.00; Ruan Scouts €5,000.00; Scariff Foroige Legends Youth Club €3,661.00; Shannon Scouts €4,750.00; Sixmilebridge Scouts €4,993.00; Skyview Youth Club €5,000.00; The Buzz Stop Youth Café €5,000.00; Triple C Youth Club €2,900.00; Tulla Scouts €5,000.00; Youth Shack €4,936.00.

“I want to give a big thank you to everyone involved with these very important projects locally. The volunteering they do is of enormous benefit to the entire community.

I would also like to acknowledge the work of Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Dr Katherine Zappone in supporting these clubs through this scheme,” he said.

l SANTA’S LITTLE HELPER: Michael Hennessy, 6, from Kilmaley, County Clare meets Santa after turning on the Christmas lights at University Hospital Limerick

7:30pm we will meet in the Orchard Wellness Centre, which is opposite the Ennis Community College.(the tech)The service also includes a phone number (085 1404005) where people can leave a message from Monday to Friday, with their call being returned the same day.

For the moment the service is ran single handly by Oonagh Okeeffe herself,but with the veiw of getting others on board to help her.

If you are 18years plus male/female and have had to experience such cir-

cumstances or are still in an abusive sexual relationship. I hope people will say S.T.O.P . and phone us or other organisations such as the Samaratians, Clare Haven,Rape Crisis ect..and be able to take that first step. I have been through the system myself, and believe that if we can come out and address this, then we can change society for the better.

For more information go to the facebook.com /S.T.O.P.Ireland page.

Freephone number for the S.T.O.P support group is

1800 911 677.

WEST CLARE CHARITY CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM Charity christmas day swim will take place at Cappa pier at 9.15 am on Christmas morning.

Please spread the word and enjoy the splash. This is the 26th year of the swim in Cappa and hope that all those who swam in the past will join in. If you

ENNIS CLARE HAVEN Clare Haven Services Insights Programme - A free and confidential weekly programme for women who are or have been in an abusive domestic relationship. For further information please contact Clare Haven Services on 065 6842646.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR SEXUAL ABUSE A new support group for sufferers of sexual trauma and childhood sexual abuse is now open in Ennis.

Founded by Kilnamona woman, Oonagh O’Keeffe, (S.T.O.P.) which means Sexual.Trauma. Overcoming.

Powerlessness.It is a confidential facilitated support group service for people.It is based in Ennis Co.Clare the idea behind it is to reach out to people who are dealing with any sexual trauma within their past lifes or may be still having to experience a sexual ordeal everday.

This service includes a intimate group meeting aprox. up to 10 people where each Tuesday from 6:30pm to

l CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: Some locals enjoying festivities from Santa and Mrs Clause’s trip to Kilrush last weekend. Ho Ho Ho!!

Photo by Pauline Dunleavy/Maria Hartmann

are not swimming come along anyway and support the swimmers......... wishing you a very Happy Christmas....... Please share , spread the word and encourage everyone to join the fun. Proceeds from this years swim goes to “Mid West Simon” and “Kilrush RNLI” COMEDY NIGHT IN COORACLARE On this Thursday the Cooraclare GAA Health and Wellbeing group who were recently national Pride of Place award winners for reaching out to the community will hold a Christmas Comedy night entitled Christmas Comedy at Pigs Elbow.

This Christmas special will see the return of some favourite comedians and yarn tellers from their summer shows last July to include yarn teller Pat Aherne of Doonbeg.

Tickets can be had from Tubridy’s Bar & Guest House in Cooraclare or Malin Kelly (0768564447) or at the door on the night. Cost is €12 each to include a drink voucher, finger food and show.

A night not to be missed with plenty of laughs to get in the Christmas Spirit.

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Community

COMMUNITY 27 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

l WANNA BE IN MY GANG: David Deighan, St Finnachta’s National School fundraising committee; Tony Downes, Pascal Keane, Sean Collins and Kieran Quin of Clare Vintage Club; and Keith Walker, St Finnachta’s Board of Management Photo by Paddy Higgins

EAST CLARE TRACTORS TAKE TO THE STREETS IN SIXMILEBRIDGE The streets of Sixmilebridge will resound to the sound of tractor engines revving up when Clare Vintage Engine and Tractor Club take their array of tractors through the streets of Sixmilebridge on Wednesday, 27 December.

Commencing with assembly and registration at 11am at Sixmilebridge National School, the tractor run will get underway at 12noon and will circle the parish passing through the Minister’s Cross on route to the finish line at The Scout Den in the railway station car park.

The run has been organised by Clare Vintage Engine and Tractor Club and will support the development of the new St Finnachta’s National School Sixmilebridge.

It will enable families to cast aside the indulgences of Christmas and get some fresh air while viewing tractors from many generations in the shadows on the old and new St Finnachta’s school.

This promises to be a fun day for young and old alike.

NORTH CLARE PLANS FOR ATM IN DOOLIN Unsuspecting revellers will no longer have to hitch a lift out of Doolin when they run out of funds, as the village’s first ever ATM is in the pipeline.

The planning application has just been lodged with Clare County Council and a decision is not due to be made until the end of January 2018.

Krystyna Rawlcz and Associates Limited applied for the ATM on behalf of their client Euronet 360 Finance Ltd. (Irish Branch).

If granted, the ATM will stand to the left hand side of

the door of Gus O’Connor’s pub, a handy spot for those soaking up the atmosphere.

The closest ATM to Doolin at the moment is at the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre, a whole seven kilometres away.

This ATM does not have 24 hour access and the next nearest outlet is in Ennistymon, also a considerable distance away at 10km.

Those wishing to object to the ATM must do so by January 5, 2018.

COROFIN WALKING BUS On Wednesday 29th of November, Scoil Mhuire Corofin welcomed the Guilfoyles from Irelands Fittest Family to the launch of their walking bus.

The walking bus started last year in conjunction with the green schools travel flag. Since it began it has gone from 10 pupils to nearly 30 waking most mornings. It is great to see them every morning walking through the village with cars and trucks giving

l ON THE ROAD: Students from Scoil Mhuire Corofin have adapted a ‘walking school bus’ which sees almost 30 pupils walking most mornings

a ‘beep’ of support much to the delight of the children.

A very big thank you goes to the Guilfoyle family for giving up their time to officially launch our walking bus. All the pupils were delighted to meet them and got great encouragement that someday any of our pupils could also be on Irelands Fittest Family.

Thank you also to the green school committee, teachers, parents and most

importantly the pupils for their enthusiasm every morning. It’s a great way to start the school day with lots of chats and laughter on route.

If you’re passing through the village and see us in our bright high vis jackets give us a beep of support.

28 COUNTY MATTERS

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

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

l LOOKING TO THE FUTURE: Tom McNamara, Cathaoirleach Clare County Council along with Congella McGuire, Heritage Officer and Candace Ingram, Executive Planner Clare County Council with the help of Kilmaley National School pupils Tadhg Hennessy and Nicole O’Loughlin launching both the Clare County Heritage Plan 2017-2023 and the Clare Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2023 in Kilmaley this week Photo by Eamon Ward

New plan to protect Clare’s biodiversity

T

HE Elected Members of Clare County Council have unanimously adopted two plans relating to the protection of the heritage and biodiversity of County Clare over the next six years.

The Clare County Heritage Plan 2017-2023 focuses on a number of identified actions to be implemented under the themes of community, training and education, sustainable tourism, built heritage, cultural heritage, and biodiversity, climate change and green infrastructure planning.

Key objectives include improving access to local heritage sites, supporting efforts to run a Building Conservation Award Scheme, con-

serving and restoring Clare’s maritime built heritage, providing training in the use of traditional building skills and materials, supporting the implementation of the Holy Island Visitor Management & Sustainable Tourism Development Plan, supporting community-based heritage initiatives, and facilitating the development of the Shannon and River Fergus estuaries for recreational activities such as water sports.

Successful heritage initiatives completed under the previous Clare County Heritage Plan 2011-2017 include the development of the Loop Head Heritage Trail, which was awarded Gold at the World Sustainable Tourism Awards, and the Shannon Town Green

Infrastructure Plan & Design Guide for which Clare County Council received a Planning Institute National Planning Award.

The Clare Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2023 seeks to promote, protect and enhance the biodiversity of Clare and to achieve the aims of the National Biodiversity Action Plan, Ireland’s Vision for Biodiversity, 2017-2021.

Funded by Clare County Council and The Heritage Council, the Plan includes dozens of objectives such as supporting the recording of biodiversity across Clare and submitting all records to the National Biodiversity Database Centre, hosting events to celebrate biodiversity, developing guidance on

alternatives to herbicides, raising awareness of the role of biodiversity in climate change and the importance of wetland management in preventing flooding, and promoting Clare and particularly the Burren region as an important refuge for native pollinators.

Other objectives include continuing the habitat mapping of Clare, supporting the rollout of Burrenbeo’s Ecobeo and Áitbeo’s programmes, producing educational material on biodiversity, supporting the work of the Burren Farming for Conservation Programme and the Burren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, working with landowners and local communities to protect and

manage inland waterways, and providing guidance on best practice management of hedgerows.

Mayor of Clare Tom McNamara said the two plans will promote heritage and biodiversity as a resource to contribute to quality of life and the cultural and economic development of County Clare.

“The objectives contained in these strategies present many opportunities to engage and support local communities and heritage groups to develop heritage and biodiversity projects which are educational, conservation orientated or heritage tourism led. Clare County Council is committed to supporting communities over the lifetime of these

plans with a view to creating a better understanding and appreciation of our shared heritage and natural environment,” said the Mayor.

Pat Dowling Chief Executive of Clare County Council, noted that the new County Heritage Plan has been adopted at a time when “current and emerging government policy focuses on nurturing our cultural heritage and promoting town and village renewal, for which heritage is central.”

Copies of the Clare County Heritage Plan 2017-2023 and the Clare Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2023 are available from the offices of Clare County Council.

COLUMNISTS 29

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

lDON'T WAIT: You are 100% worth it

Jess & Ciara

FIT TIPS NEVER BUY CHEAP TOILET PAPER!

Your fitness is the most important investment you'll make

N

O I haven’t exactly switched to a blogger who details proper household management or economic strategies...but this is an important lesson in life, fitness and business.

Buying cheap toilet paper is a false economy! It might save you a little in the moment, but you lose out in the long run (and run out far more often!). It’s

lGOALS: Stay focused

like buying your second favourite pair of shoes because they were €10 cheaper than what you really wanted....oh the regret! Or ordering the tapas size portion because you "aren’t that hungry" and then eating all your friends fries!

Or deciding not to spend a little time and money on YOUR HEALTH AND FITNESS! In the moment you save time/cash/ energy, however in the long run you are just putting off the

inevitable, and cheating yourself out of a really good dinner or days/weeks/months of time that could have already brought you closer to your goals.

If like me, the answer to the question "Do you want it done right or done now?" is always BOTH, then make the leap.

Book the class, throw the gym gear in the car and do it! Spend the extra €10 on the really amazing (and probably really impractical) shoes, buy the fluffy stuff!!

Don’t leave the change that needs to happen for another minute...you are the

only one who can decide, and you need to decide that you are 100 per cent worth it. xxx Jess and Ciara will be on hand to answer any of your fitness and sport related questions each week as well as giving advice on personal fitness and well-being.

Do you have any questions you would like them to answer?

Send them into fitness@clareecho.ie

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS lNEW SEAT IBIZA: Delightfully sophisticated

SPANISH SUPERSTAR Seat’s new Ibiza is a class act

ROAD TEST: SEAT IBIZA 1.0 TSI XCELLENCE

This one is rather different. Thanks to Seat having worked through its difficulties and started making actual profits, its senior staff were able to convince their VW overlords that, to succeed, the new Ibiza had to start out right, and that meant getting first dibs on VW’s new, and expensive, MQB-A0 HIS SEAT, you’ll have noticed, is platform. That platform will eventually be pink. Actually, Seat calls it ‘Mystic seen under the new Polo (about to go on Magenta’ (oh, the hours of hilarity sale any day now), the next Skoda Fabia and that await when you start looking Audi A1, and more models besides, but Seat at the actual names car companies give their paints) but to these yes it’s metal- gets it first.

And it shows. Whereas the old Ibiza lic pink, or rose gold on a good day. I don’t think it works, but I’ll let your good selves always felt just a touch cheap and tinny, this new one has a sudden, and delightful, be the final arbiters of taste, in this case.

Certainly, the Ibiza which lies under the sophistication. It looks very smart on the outside — subtle, perhaps, and certainly paint is a car deserving of a more suitable not showy in the vein of such rivals as the colour. Seat’s small car has, for decades Citroen C3, but it’s handsome, and a touch now, been something of an also-ran. For chiselled. years, under the VW Group, Seat was seen Inside, quality levels have taken a big, a as ‘The Spanish Patient’ — the arm of the huge leap forward. OK, so our test car was company that struggled to make money, a top-spec Xcellence model, with a price and which was consequently given less tag of €23,243 (a huge amount for a small development funding to spend. So while car, but Ibiza prices do start from a more previous Ibiza have always been solidly sensible €14,995) and that always means decent cars, they’ve rarely, if ever, been as that there are going to be the most expengood as their in-house rivals from VW and sive possible fixtures and fittings inside.

Skoda.

But, we have driven a basic, humble Ibiza S

T

too, and while that has to make do without the big, bright central touchscreen (one of the best in the business) the fundamentals of the Ibiza’s cabin are right, right across the range. Good seats, a properly sorted driving position, good quality materials throughout. Plenty of space too — that MQB-A0 platform is very efficiently packaged, and legroom in the back almost allows the Ibiza to compete with its own big brother, the Leon.

On the engine front, our test car came with the 115hp 1.0-litre TSI petrol three-cylinder turbo engine, which is, in this case, a touch unnecessary. Oh, don’t get us wrong, it’s lovely. It revs smoothly, with a pleasing warble to the exhaust note, and it’s very economical too. Seat claims you’ll get 60mpg out of it, and that seems like a genuinely achievable figure. But it’s an expensive option, and to be honest, for the Ibiza, the slightly cheaper 95hp version of this engine does the job just as well, and saves you the guts of €1,000 on the price sticker.

Either way, the Ibiza is good to drive, with slick, well-weighted steering and a sense of both precision and comfort from the chassis. It’s not as naturally agile as the rival Ford Fiesta, but the ride quality is also

FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested: SEAT Ibiza 1.0 TSI 115hp XCellence Pricing: €22,243 as tested (Ibiza range starts at €14,995) Engine: 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol Transmission: six-speed manual, front-wheel drive Body style: five-door hatchback CO2 emissions: 108g/km (Band A3, €190 per year) Combined economy: 60.1mpg (4.0 litres/100km) Top speed: 195km/h 0-100km/h: 9.3 seconds Power: 115hp at 5,000- to 5,500rpm Torque: 200Nm at 2,000- to 3,500rpm Boot space: 355 litres (seats up) Safety: Euro NCAP rating for SEAT Ibiza five-star; 95 per cent adult; 77 per cent child; 76 per cent pedestrian; 60 per cent safety assist

very good; firm enough for the car to feel stable in fast corners, but not so stiff that it becomes uncomfortable, which was a bugbear of the old Ibiza. Definitely one of the best cars in its class to drive In fact, if you can look past the pink paint, it’s one of the best cars in its class, full-stop.

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

ADVERTISEMENT 31

32 MOTORING

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WO out of three European drivers want to be able to drive even if self-driving cars become commonplace, according to a major new piece of research launched today by Mazda.

The Ipsos research – which was commissioned as part of Mazda’s Drive Together campaign designed to celebrate the joy of driving – polled 11,008 people across key European markets and revealed that an average of 66 per cent of drivers wanted to remain behind the wheel even if self-driving cars become widely available; the figure is as high as 71 per cent in the UK, Germany, Austria and Poland and only in Italy does it dip below 60 per cent (59 per cent).

Coupled with this, the study also found that only 33 per cent of drivers “welcome the advent of self-driving cars” with the number dropping as low as 25 per cent in France and the Netherlands and reaching only 29 per cent in the UK. Interestingly, there is virtually no evidence of greater support for self-driving cars in younger age groups across Europe – in fact, 18-24 year olds (33 per cent) were no more likely

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Motoring News

Mazda says drivers want to keep control of their cars to welcome self-driving cars than 25-34 year olds (36 per cent) and 35-44 year olds (34 per cent).

The research also reveals a significant emotional connection between car and driver as demonstrated by the following statistics: An average of 69 per cent of drivers “hope that future generations will continue to have the option to drive cars” – the figure is as high as 74 per cent in Poland and 70 per cent or higher in the UK, Germany, France and Sweden. In addition, 36 per cent of those who enjoy driving see their car and the act of driving as an “extension of my personality”

with the number rising to 56 per cent in Poland and 46 per cent in Italy. And 34 per cent agree driving is in danger of becoming a “forgotten pleasure” – in France, Italy and Poland the figure is 40 per cent or higher.

Mazda Motor Europe’s President and CEO Jeff Guyton said: “As a brand we simply love driving and this research demonstrates very clearly that a huge number of European drivers agree with us – of course, there is a role for self-driving cars but for us, and for many others it seems, there really is nothing quite like the physical pleasure of driving.

“This is why at Mazda we believe in putting the driver at the heart of everything we do and it’s why our current Drive Together campaign focuses on the bond between car and driver. We call this Jinba Ittai which is the Japanese phrase used to describe

the perfect harmony between the mounted archer and his horse. It is this human-centric philosophy that underpins our business and helps us create cars that bring the driver and their car closer together.

“If you look at the car industry in general, we believe that many manufacturers are taking a lot of the pure driving pleasure away from drivers. At Mazda we are fighting against this and it’s clear from the research that there is still a huge percentage of drivers who just want to be behind the wheel. In a world that questions the act of driving and devalues the role of the car and the role of the driver through technological changes, we will continue to challenge convention for the love of driving.”

Further findings from the research show that 54 per cent of Europeans have been for a drive

“just for fun” – in Sweden it’s as high as 73 per cent and the UK, Netherlands, Poland and Austria all top 60 per cent; an average of 53 per cent say “driving is about more than simply getting from A to B”, climbing to 66 per cent in Poland, whilst 55 per cent think driving with family and/or friends can be a “special experience” with the figure higher than 60 per cent in Spain, Italy, Sweden and Poland.

Comparisons with other activities are also revealing with 37 per cent preferring driving to computer games, 23 per cent choosing driving compared to a drink in a bar or playing sports, with the latter as high as 37 per cent in the UK. In Italy and the UK 9 per cent prefer driving to having sex – in the latter 12 per cent of women would rather hit the road as opposed to 6 per cent of men.

MOTORING 33

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Motoring News

Renault donates fleet of Kadjars to emergency medical charity Kadjars will be used as fast response vehicles by Irish Community Rapid Response

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ENAULT IRELAND has donated seven Renault Kadjar crossovers to the Irish Community Rapid Response (ICRR) vehicle fleet at a handover at UCD School of Medicine.

Irish Community Rapid Response is a registered charity which was founded by social entrepreneur John Kearney in 2008 to deliver professional pre-hospital emergency care directly to the site of emergencies throughout Ireland.

As part of its CSR programme, Renault Ireland is a committed supporter of ICRR and its mission, and this donation will greatly impact ICRR’s volunteer doctors on the road in providing

professional pre-hospital emergency care to those in life-threatening emergencies.

The donation of the vehicles,

valued at €250,000, will double the total number of Rapid Response Vehicles (RRVs) operating throughout Ireland. Six of

the new vehicles are equipped with 4x4 capabilities and all are complete with built-in satellite navigation systems to meet the needs of ICRR service providers.

These new vehicles will operate in Clare, Dublin, Kilkenny/Waterford, Laois/Offaly, Mayo and Roscommon. The ICRR RRVs are declared National Ambulance Service (NAS) assets, and are tasked to life-threatening emergencies via the 999/112 system.

ICRR also supports almost 200 other doctors responding to emergencies in their communities at local level. Overall, ICRR volunteer doctors responded to almost 1,000 calls in 2017.

Patrick Magee, Country Operations Manager Renault Ireland,

said: “We are delighted to be in a position to assist this fantastic service which has saved so many lives around the country since 2008. It’s an amazing operation and we know that by providing our seven Renault Kadjars, ICRR’s reach will be expanded to so many more parts of the country. We wish all the ICRR staff who drive the new Renault Kadjars safe journeys on their missions.”

John Kearney, CEO ICRR, said: “This is a big milestone in our journey at ICRR. I want to acknowledge Patrick Magee and his extended team at Renault Ireland for their help in assisting the expansion of this successful life-saving service.”

New Renault CLIO Restart your heart

Three cheers for:

3% APR 3 Years’ Servicing 3 Years’ Road Tax Model shown: Clio Dynamique S Nav TCe 90 RRP €19,390. Price excludes metallic paint, delivery and dealer-related charges. Maximum recommended delivery charge €750. Finance example: Clio Expression 1.2 16V 75. RRP €15,990. Deposit €5,372. Term 36 monthly payments of €135. APR 3%. Total cost of credit €740 inc doc & completion fee €75 each. Optional final payment €6,348. Includes 3-year service plan. 3 years’ road tax is based on current rates applicable at time of purchase. Offer exclusive to Renault Bank. Excess mileage plus excess wear-and-tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Renault Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare Tel 065 6821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie

Book a test-drive

Beautiful homes all over the County UNLOCK YOUR DREAM

BAREFIELD BEAUTY

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BALLYCARROLL, BAREFIELD, CO. CLARE HIS is a modern six bedroomed dormer bungalow set on a mature private site in a pleasant country setting outside the village of Barefield enjoying all the benefits of country living but yet is within easy access of all amenities Barefield village has to offer. Barefield village offers easy access to the M18 to Galway, Limerick and Shannon and is just 4km from Ennis. The property has been renovated and is finished to a high standard throughout

Property

€ 250,000

with modern fitted kitchen with plenty storage and bright spacious living accommodation including a sunroom and spacious bedrooms with two en-suite. Barefield village is an extremely popular residential location due to its proximity to Ennis, Shannon and Limerick. Viewing of this fine home is highly recommended with Helen Gallery auctioneers and valuers. Contact 086 250 4671 for further details.

Helen Gallery Auctioneers Tel: 086 250 4671

Happy Christmas and New Year to all my clients and friends from Helen Gallery Auctioneers

RARE OPPORTUNITY IN CENTRAL LOCATION MARYKNOLL, LIFFORD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE MARYKNOLL, Lifford is a 1950’s detached bungalow located on arguably one of the finest sites in Ennis town.

The property is in need of renovation and refurbishment but offers the incoming

TRANQUIL SETTING

28 SILVERGROVE, BALLYBEG, ENNIS, CO. CLARE TRANQUIL settings does not get much better than the much sought after and well established cul de sac known as Silvergrove located in one of Ennis’ affluent residential areas just 2.5km from Ennis Town Centre. Surrounded by lush woodland and slightly elevated from road level, number 28 summarizes the word luxury in a 2,500 sq.ft. package. Inside, the vast open plan entrance hallway gives way to a spacious reception at either side

€435,000

with the outstanding open plan kitchen/ living/dining positioned to the rear of the house, slightly L-shaped extending to the side sun lounge. Also at ground floor level is separate utility and downstairs WC.

Cormac O’Sullivan MIPAV MCEI TRV Tel: 065 - 6840200 Partner Director

€160,000

purchaser enormous potential.

Rarely does such an offering in such a central location come up for sale.

Arthur & Lees Auctioneers Tel: 065-6868686

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

PROPERTY 35

36 PROPERTY

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

We would like to take sincere thanks for yo your family a Happy Ch We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks for your business and to wish you and your family a Happy Christmas & the very best for 2018.

We look forward to work

We look

We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks for your business and to wish you and forward to working with you again in the New your family a Happy Christmas & the very best for 2018.

Year.

We look forward to working with you again in the New Year.

DIARMUID McMAHON

DIARMUID McMAHON DANIELLE KAVANAGH

DANIELLE KAVANAGH

TIERNAN O’MALLEY

TIERNAN O’MALLEY CHRISTINA MADDEN

CHRISTINA MADDEN

PSRA No. 001212

PSRA No. 001212

SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON

O’CONNELL SQUARE HOUSE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

T: 065 686 7866 SHERRYFITZ.IE

/SHERRYFITZGERALDGROUP @SHERRY_FITZ

We would like to sincere thanks fo your family a Happ

We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks for your business and to wish you and PSRA No. 0O1212 your family a Happy Christmas & the very best for 201

Email: ennis@sherryfitzmcmahon.ie

We look forward to w We would like to take this opportunity to extend our sincere thanks for your business and to wish you and

We look forward to working with you again in the New Y

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Classifieds HOT JOB: BEAUTY INDUSTRY

CLASSIFIEDS 37 CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

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THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

Your Horoscopes December 21 YOU need to face it -- you are just feeling less energetic than usual today, and it shows. How can you get your groove back? There are two equal and opposite actions you could take. The first is to simply rest -- especially if you’ve been overworked lately. Take some time for yourself. The second is to force yourself to get moving, especially if you’ve been the lethargic lately. Whichever you choose, act soon!

Taurus

Gemini

YOUR social life is on the front burner now, and things are suddenly sizzling! How do you want to handle this flood of invites, phone calls and friend requests? You thrive on attention, and things have been entirely too quiet for you as of late -- so book your calendar solid! Make sure you book in a little downtime, too -- all play and no rest makes people cranky!

YOU’VE been fighting hard to regain some measure of freedom in your new, weird situation that you might be losing sight of your actual goals. Step back, take a deep breath and quiet your mind for a moment to find your center -then refocus your eyes on the real prize. You may need to lose a minor battle if it means a major victory on the front that matters most. You need to think strategically.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

FEELINGS can be contagious on a day like today. Smiling at a stranger can automatically make them smile back, and laughter can spread from one person to the next in waves.

On the other hand, some sarcastic comment can throw you into a rotten mood and make you want to lash out at just about anyone handy. Try to keep a lid on the bad stuff for now and do whatever it takes to spread goodwill and positive energy.

MONEY needs to be handled wisely and with respect, and it’s also something that should be reducing the stress in your life, not adding to it. Take a hard look at your spending habits and how you deal with cash. Do you put off financial matters until the last minute? (If so, you’re not alone!) Do you use retail therapy to try and solve problems that can’t be solved easily? (Ditto.) If the answers make you uncomfortable, now is the time to change.

YOU feel just like a lottery winner who’s just matched all the right numbers -- it feels like your life has opened up in a big way and adventure lies ahead of you. Grab your most trusted companion to join you for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Who knows where it could lead or how you might end up?

Make sure you don’t get too greedy -- those winnings are metaphorical for now!

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Y

23

U Q

A

W E

S

18

difficult - just lso an ideal

O

19

A

N S

E

13

I

14

R

20

P

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I

N O

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U

Y

E

B

L

I

2

H

N

D 9

A E

3

R

M

A

21

R

O

I

S

16

4

L

I K

S

22

E

S E

D

R

12

E

O A

A

D

P

R

G

10

I

A A

G

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A 15

E

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D

M

17

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A C

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B

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7

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24

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T A

C

I

A E

S X

D

N

I N

S

R S

5

S

6

T

E A

7

B

10 Ode or composition in western show (5) 13 Tried, for example, scattering t seed around (7) 14 Devil in Paris at a nightclub (5) 16 Sandier sort of fish (7) 17 Rubies, if not set properly, can result in injury (6) 19 Furnish egghead with clever remark (5) 21 Enchanting — like Mozart's flute? (5) 22 Reported volume of gentle

I

26

S

25

24

22

I

23

21

E

20

) 5) rs

19

S

18

R

17

E

16

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15

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14

A

13

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12

CROSSWORD ANSWERS T

11

1 Respite allowed initially under pressure (3-2) 2 Beside wrought iron, caught like a poet (7) 3 Where cowboys may be managed by heartless coach (5) 4 Innocent creature getting attorney to reveal Greek letter (6) 6 Note after journey is nonsense (5) 7 Outsiders in blue teams to boot (7) 10 Ode or composition in western show (5) 13 Tried, for example, scattering seed around (7) 14 Devil in Paris at a

26

10

DOWN

E

7

P

9

6

O

8

5

remark (5) 21 Enchanting — like Mozart’s flute? (5) 22 Reported volume of gentle sounds (5) D

4

nightclub (5) 16 Sandier sort of fish (7) 17 Rubies, if not set properly, can result in injury (6) 19 Furnish egghead with clever

25

3

26 Trainers prepared for the races? (8)

a

2

1 Bills are revised by some politicians (8) 5 Attempt - to use a dagger (4) 8 Capturing some Italian city (5) 9 God accepting drink in Borders (7) 11 Arrested, having committed a theft (7) 12 A large number study in fear (5) 13 Tax cut (6) 15 Sounds made by hooters about one (6) 18 Charming composition heard (5) 20 Religious education — and saint’s observations (7) 23 We heard characters in quiz (3,3,1) 24 Working or departing (5) 25 Drug for a fool (4)

r 10 Ode or composition in western show (5) 13 Tried, for example, scattering out seed around (7) 14 Devil in Paris at a nightclub (5) d 16 Sandier sort of fish (7) 17 Rubies, if not set properly, can result in injury (6) 19 Furnish egghead with clever z remark (5) 21 Enchanting — like Mozart's flute? (5) 22 Reported volume of gentle sounds (5)

1

ACROSS

Sometimes you have to break through a brittle outer shell in order to get to the soft caramel center. Someone or something in your life right now presents a similar problem, so before you toss it in the trash and announce that it’s not worth your time, take a moment. Is there something worth pursuing that’s simply hidden behind a tough exterior in there?

r

The Clare Echo Crossword

like

You might think today’s situation is a failure when, in fact, it’s come along at the right moment to teach you a skill you need to gain an even greater success. Put aside your assumptions and fears and just deal with what’s in front of you right now. Far greater things are in store for you than you could have ever imagined. Learn everything you can from this moment and remember it.

)

Do you have a friend who lives far off? If so, now is the best time to get back in touch with them. If not, you may feel driven to meet someone new and exotic. Whether you’re looking for a pen pal, a business partner or a soul mate, you should find that it gets much easier with today’s energy. With your focus and determination to get things done, you should even have extra time to finish that big work project and clean the house!

Taking care of your people is important, but taking care of yourself should be a priority for you now. If you’re feeling a bit ragged doing special projects for work and helping your family with their kids, you need to put your foot down. Tell them that you’re raking some spare time. It’s about time that people started to respect that -- which goes for you, too!

(6) se

Every choice you make has an impact on your surroundings. Isn’t it time you started making the healthiest, most beneficial choices possible? It’s time to start that greener energy program you’ve been thinking about, or maybe you should volunteer for a cause that drives you intensely.

You could also simply start bringing your own bags to the grocery store -- every little bit counts.

Progress doesn’t always move in a straight line. In fact, in order to reach your ultimate goal, often you have to backtrack through territory you thought was well behind you so you can learn something you missed the first time around.

Stressing out about lost time isn’t worth the worry, though.

Just sit back and enjoy the scenery -- after all, isn’t that the point of life?

oot

Aries

1/1

cult - just n ideal

38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, DEC 21 2017

The Clare Echo Quiz GENERAL KNOWLEDGE Name the Clare farmer who was 1earlier blessed with quadruplet calves this year.

Tom Clair, Tim Clohessy, Ted Cahir

How soon does Willie Daly prom2 ise you will be married if you touch his ‘Lucky Book’?

Three months, Six months, A year

many square kilometres is 3How our fair county?

1922, 1925, 1929

5

Which parish is Pope Francis technically Bishop of?

Kilfenora, Killaloe, Kilrush

did Clare man John Phillip 8What Holland invent?

many lions feature on the did The Donald visit Ireland 9How Clare GAA crest?

6When last?

2013, 2014, 2015

2, 3, 4

Which Councillor wanted to put 7 up a plaque to mark ‘Ireland’s largest lingerie section’?

How many structures have 10 stood on the site of Bunratty Castle?

Brian Meaney, James Breen, Pat Daly

l DO YOU KNOW: Which parish in Clare is Pope Francis technically Bishop of?

The propeller, the steam engine, the submarine

3, 4, 5

6. 2014 7. Brian Meaney 8. The submarine 9. 3 10. 4

year did the Ardnacrusha 4What power station open?

l TRUMP: When did The Donald visit Ireland last?

ANSWERS 1. Tom Clair 2. Six months 3. 3,188 sq km 4. 1929 5. Kilfenora

2,955 sq km, 3,059 sq km 3,188 sq km

CELEBRATING YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS

l EVENT: Clare’s best young entrepreneurs have been honoured at the County Final of Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition, which took place in the Buttermarket Building in Ennis on Thursday. Pictured (centre) is Tom McNamara, Mayor of Clare. Photo by Arthur Ellis

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