The Clare Echo 05/02/26

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Feb 31, 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct 2024

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Drugs fuel SIEGE OF ENNIS violence in Clare village ‘Serious issues with drugs and fueding’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS residents are on red-alert following a spike in serious anti-social behaviour.

On Sunday morning, a firebomb was put through a car in Kilnasoolagh Park while a week previous one man was hospitalised following a stabbing.

A concerned resident of New-

market-on-Fergus told The Clare Echo that the village “has become lawless. There are serious issues with drugs, feuding, car robberies, drug-debt intimidation, fires, and dangerous burn-outs. People feel like they are living in a war zone, with little to no Garda presence to keep the community safe”.

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 Children dance to outdoor choral singing at O’Connell Square in Ennis last Saturday afternoon where an event from the Spring Into Song Ennis Choral Festival 2026 was taking place Photo by Joe Buckley

Flynn one of Clare’s greats

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DESCRIBED as one of Clare’s all-time great sporting characters, Colum Flynn will be laid to rest tomorrow (Friday).

Part of the Clare senior hurling set-up which captured All-Ireland and Munster titles in 1995 and 1997, Colum has been one of the most influential figures in boxing in the county, coaching several fighters to national titles and is a founding member of Ennis Boxing Club.

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) who proposed a civic reception for Colum in 2013 labelled him as “one in a million” and “one of the

greatest sporting characters that the county of Clare ever produced”.

Ollie Markham in 1976 became Ennis’ first boxer to win a national title. Paying tribute to his dear friend, he said, “He will be missed by a lot of people because everybody that knew Colum became a friend of his, he did an awful lot for boxing and people all over the country. I find it hard to believe that he is not there because we either met or spoke every week over the last sixty years, he was a friend and an advisor, he helped so many people”.

Full Story p6

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Bishop Nash appointed to new role by Pope Leo XIV

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TULLA NATIVE, Bishop Ger Nash has been appointed to a new role by Pope Leo XIV. On top of his post as Bishop of Ferns, Nash will now also serve as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ossory.

An Apostolic Administrator is appointed to temporarily govern a diocese when warranted by special circumstances. The Diocese of Ossory has a Catholic population of 83,595. The diocese comprises 42 parishes, 35 priests in active ministry, and covers the areas of most of County Kilkenny, six parishes in County Laois, and one parish in County Offaly.

Bishop Nash thanked Pope Leo for the trust and faith placed in him and said he looked forward to working with the priests, diocesan staff, Religious and the people of the Diocese of Ossory. “The diocese is blessed to have many talented priests and people who carry out great work each day, often unheralded, and I hope to be able to assist them in every way I can”.

He noted that the appointment also affected the Diocese of Ferns, Bishop Nash said he thoroughly enjoyed his work and role as Bishop of Ferns and would continue to do so. “I consider it a great privilege to be part of Ferns diocese and have always felt a warm and genuine welcome. However, with this extra responsibility, I will not have the same time to devote to every aspect of my life and work in Ferns”.

He added: “I am very confident, though, that we have good strong systems in place in Ferns, a wonderful body of clergy, hard-

working diocesan staff and no shortage of people willing to step up to the mark when called upon”.

Born on 27th February 1959 in Glandree, Tulla, Bishop Nash was ordained a priest,

by Bishop Michael Harty, in Drumcharley Church, Tulla. He was appointed by Pope Francis as Bishop of Ferns in June 2021.

After completing his Leaving Certificate, he studied business and then worked in manufacturing industry for a number of years, subsequently choosing to study for the priesthood with the Diocese of Killaloe in Saint Patrick’s College, Maynooth.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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‘Newmarket-on-Fergus has become lawless’ - latest act of violence sees car burnt out in village

by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

CRIMINAL ACTIVITY is on the rise in Newmarket-on-Fergus with local residents on edge following a stabbing and the firebombing of a car in separate incidents.

In the first hours of February, emergency services had to respond to a fire in Kilnasoolagh Park, Newmarket-on-Fergus where a car was burnt out. The incident is the second major anti-social incident to take place in the village in as many weekends.

Violence is understood to have escalated in the past week according to residents with a stabbing leaving one man hospitalised.

Emergency services and An Garda Síochána attended “the scene of an incident of criminal damage by fire”,

a spokesperson confirmed to The Clare Echo. “The local fire service extinguished the fire. There were no injuries reported. The scene is being held for technical examination. Investigations are ongoing,” the statement added.

Prior to the firebomb, the windows of the car had been smashed hours earlier on Saturday night.

According to Gardaí, there were no injuries reported following the fire but one man has been hospitalised in a separate but connected incident whereby a male sustained facial injuries in a suspected beating in a prominent location of the village on the evening of Saturday January 31st.

Subsequent to this, an iron bar is understood to have been brandished in a follow-on incident where it

is alleged two youths were assaulted.

CCTV footage from the locality has been collected

by Gardaí as part of their investigations into the fire and assaults.

A concerned resident of Newmarket-on-Fergus told The Clare Echo that the village “has become lawless. There are serious issues with drugs, feuding, car robberies, drug-debt intimidation, fires, and dangerous burn-outs. People feel like they are living in a war zone, with little to no Garda presence to keep the community safe”.

Photo by Joe Buckley

Ex Mayor Ryan elected Chair of Clare LCSP

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FORMER MAYOR OF Clare, PJ Ryan has been elected as the Chairperson of the new Clare Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP).

At The Temple Gate Hotel on Tuesday morning, the LCSP held its long awaited first meeting. The forum has been established as a replacement of the Clare Joint Policing Committee (JPC).

A total of thirty six LCSPs are to be established across Ireland following the move to dissolve JPCs. Up to thirty voluntary members can sit on the Clare LCSP. The members include elected representatives of Clare County Council, public service representatives from the HSE, Tusla, An Garda Síochána and the County Council, local residents plus representatives from youth, minority/new communities, social inclusion sector from the community and voluntary sector, education, business, older people, farmers and any other sectors deemed relevant to the county.

As one of the biggest casualties in the 2024 local election, PJ Ryan has focused on community work in Cratloe since losing his seat on the local authority. The process in get-

ting the LCSP has been very slow and drawn out with the former Independent councillor among the front-runners to become Chair from an early stage.

Ryan had recorded his highest vote in the 2019 local elections but ended up losing his seat five years later, he had served on the Council for a decade following his 2009 election after unsuccessful runs for office in 1999 and 2004. He was elected Mayor of Clare in June 2021 in what was the high-point of his political career.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) was elected as Vice Chairperson of the LCSP. She is one of seven county councillors sitting on the body alongside Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Bill Slattery (FG), Cllr John Crowe (FG), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) and Cllr David Griffin (FF).

Kilmurry McMahon based, June Dillon (AON) who contested the 2024 General Election is among the community representatives. CEO of Ennis Chamber, Margaret O’Brien and Mary Coffey who serves as a community and voluntary representative on the Rural Development SPC of Clare County Council and is also a former Mayor of Tuamgraney are also members of the new grouping.

Newmarket-on-Fergus native Mike Cusack, Chair of the Clare Older People’s Council, Chief Officer with HSE Mid West Community Healthcare Maria Bridgeman plus Supt John Ryan and representatives of Tusla were also in attendance for Tuesday’s meeting, Cusack attending virtually.

Chief Superintendent, Aileen Magner is not a permanent member of the new body.

Former rural and community development officer with the Council, Niamh Wiley is the co-ordinator of the LCSP. Each LCSP is supported by two full time, permanent staff, resourced by the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration and employed by the local authority.

Unlike the JPC, the LCSP meetings are set to be held behind closed doors with media prohibited from attending in what is viewed as a regressive move, lacking in transparency.

Efficiency and operations of the Clare LCSP has been questioned over the almost two-year wait to convene a meeting and appoint members. During his time as Acting Director of Service in the Ennis MD, Seán Lenihan had stated in April 2025, “we would expect to have the first meeting of the Clare LCSP before the end of May (2025)”.

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Case to build new hospital in Clare ‘is literally a matter of life & death’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ANY POTENTIAL new hospital in Co Clare must be located in the environs of the Ennis Municipal District, a public meeting on healthcare in the region has heard.

Organised by Clare TD, Donna McGettigan (SF), the public meeting was held at The Temple Gate on Thursday last.

Deputy McGettigan chaired the meeting with Limerick TD, Maurice Quinlivan (SF), Ireland South MEP, Kathleen Funchion (SF), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) and Cllr James Ryan (SF) among the politicians in attendance along with Hilary Tonge (SF).

Addresses were also given by Melanie Cleary of MidWest Hospital Campaign and Friends of Ennis Hospital Chairperson, Angela Coll.

Voices need to be united to improve healthcare in the region, Deputy McGettigan stated. “I opened the meeting with a minute silence for all those who lost their lives due to the ongoing crisis. The Mid-West has lower total per capital bed capacity compared with the rest of Ireland. A higher proportion of admitted patients in UHL are accommodated on

Trolleys relative to the other model four hospitals. We have no dedicated public inpatient beds for adults with anorexia.

Mental health services in Clare is seriously impacted with the Mid-West having no clinical nurse specialists for suicide crisis assessment. Our ambulance service in Clare is under resourced, this has been raised for over a decade now. We have people in Clare living over 100km to their nearest A+E. Over a three year period over 12,000 people from Clare attended Galway A+E rather than attend Limerick.

We have people telling us that they fear attending Limerick UHL. “What we learned from this meeting is that our voices need to be one. We need to have all of the three HIQA recommendations implemented immediately. Accountability is also something that is called for”.

Angela Coll told the meeting she chairs Ireland’s longest running health campaign and that she has been actively involved in campaigns for better health services in Clare since the 1980s. “I marched with 1000’s of people in opposition to the downgrading of Ennis in 2009 and was one of a much

smaller group present at Ennis hospital on the night the ED finally closed in 2013. I have met with all of the health ministers in Ireland since 2009 with the exception of Dr. James Reilly who declined to meet with me before the ED in Ennis closed as he said the closure was on ‘medical advice’. Having read both the Hanly report from 2003 and the Horwath Teamwork report from 2008 I can state with absolute certainty that the so-called medical advice at the time was flawed, but that was then and this is now”.

She stated, “Progress has never come from silence.

Every major advance in healthcare has come because ordinary people refused to accept suffering as normal, because health care is more important than politics, it’s more important than personal ambitions, it is literally a matter of life or death”.

Coll outlined, “We must fight for a better health service for all of us, not just ourselves and our parents and elderly but for our children and grandchildren. We have in 2026 a golden opportunity to lay down a marker for better health services for our county. It is our belief in Friends of Ennis hospital that the Option B pro-

Friends of Ennis Hospital Chairperson, Angela Coll

vided for in the HIQA report should be located as far north of Coonagh as is possible and we have been in contact with the HSE to express that view vocally and frequently. Option B is the medium-term solution to the overcrowding in UHL. Option C is the long-term solution. With Regard to Option C it is our belief that this needs to be located within the environs of Ennis Municipal District. That is not up for debate. The presentation levels at the Local Injuries unit in Ennis show that the demand for services in Ennis far out-

weighs the demand in north Tipperary. We have the population here in Clare to sustain an acute hospital and our geographical spread within the county means that it is absolutely vital that a site for Option C is identified and purchased by the HSE this year preferably in Q1 of 2026 because while land in Clare is available right now we have no idea what kind of demand there will be for land in the county over the next 10 years”.

She said, “there is a public perception that we can just ‘reopen the ED’ in Ennis and

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all will be well. I need to make this clear this is not factually correct and that narrative does not help anyone. For a start with Ennis hospital working above 100% occupancy already if we had an ED on the current site there are no beds for admitted patients so we would just be moving the trolley issue from Limerick into Ennis. Secondly, and most importantly it would not be safe to just unlock the doors and reopen the ED in Ennis because the backup services are just not there anymore. We would need 24/7 lab and radiology which we don’t have.

We would need an MRI and a CAT scan and far more X-ray machines than are onsite. We would need high dependency beds, ICU beds and cardiac Beds all of which need to be single occupancy not in nightingale wards which Ennis simply does not have. That’s not to mention medical teams on site 24/7 including Surgeons, theatre nurses triage nurses.

Our best bet for a safe effective health service for Clare is in a new build on a greenfield site”.

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Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Colum Flynn the best man to have in your corner

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A GENTLEMAN who left people feeling better in mind and body after each encounter, Colum Flynn was exactly the type of man you wanted in your corner.

Whether it be the boxing ring or life in general, it helps to have someone loyal in your corner and Colum Flynn was certainly that to those that knew and loved him.

Huge crowds are expected to turn out in the county town this Thursday and Friday to pay their respects to a much-loved man who has left a strong legacy behind him.

Colum died unexpectedly on Friday after a short illness with his funeral mass to take place in Ennis Cathedral this Friday morning.

Conversations about Colum over the past week have focused on how much he loved his wife Kay and how superb a father he was to Padraig, Ciara, Sorcha, Aoife, Katie and Eilish.

Regarded as a sporting legend in Clare, Colum was involved in boxing and hurling, helping generations of sportspeople to reach their potential over six decades.

Serving as the physio and masseur with the Ger Loughnane managed Clare were crowned All-Ireland senior hurling champions in 1995 was previously described by Colum as the greatest moment of his sporting life. He remained involved in 1997 when they replicated the success and was part of the senior set-up until 2006.

He had also been a selector under Fr Harry Bohan when Clare won back to back National League

l Colum in Cusack Park after

watching Éire Óg win the Clare SHC for the first time in 35 years Photo by Gerard O’Neill

titles in 1977 and 1978.

Across the border in Galway, Colum was involved with the Cyril Farrell managed Galway senior hurlers when they tasted All-Ireland success, lifting the Liam MacCarthy in 1987 and 1988.

Within the sport of boxing, there have been few more influential figures in Clare than Flynn. He attended the first meeting of Ennis Boxing Club in 1961 held in the CYMS Hall and started coaching young boxers in the club in 1963 after securing a transfer to the GPO in Ennis, having been based in Claremorris prior to this.

He trained hundreds of boxers including the club’s first national champion, Ollie Markham who won the national senior middleweight crown in 1976, the Kilmurry McMahon native regarded as Clare’s greatest boxer went on to represent his country and was undefeated when trained by Flynn.

That 1976 was also the first national title win for Ennis Boxing Club, it was the feat in the ring that Colum the most pride. The success of Kilmaley native Michael Queally in winning honours at youths and senior at heavyweight also stood out for the Ennis man when reflecting on a lifetime in sport.

Healing hands of Colum helped to get hundreds of sporting athletes back to full fitness with individuals travelling from all over Ireland to benefit from his expertise.

His contribution to the county was honoured in 2013 with a civic reception by Clare Co Council following a proposal by then Mayor, Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Tony Mulqueen (FG) and James Breen (IND).

This wasn’t Flynn’s first experience of a civic reception as in 1976, Ennis Boxing Club received the highest honour from the local authority following Ollie Markham’s breakthrough win.

Speaking to The Clare Echo at his Ennis home on Wednesday morning, Ollie admitted it was still hard to process that Colum was no longer with us. “He will be missed by a lot of people because everybody that knew Colum became a friend of his, he did an awful lot for boxing and people all over the country. I find it hard to believe that he is not there because we either

met or spoke every week over the last 60 years, he was a friend and an advisor. He helped so many people, even outside of sport, people with problems. If a person wanted a job he would give them a good reference, he was loved and respected by so many, he helped out hurlers all over the county and country, they used to come from all over to visit him because he was gifted with his hands”.

Colum and Ollie first met in 1966, they would go on to become great friends over sixty years. “In his halcyon days, Ollie was undoubtedly the most superb athlete I ever handled,” Colum stated in 2011. Speaking this week, Ollie noted there is nobody better than Colum that could have been in his corner, “You couldn’t have a better person in your corner because Colum would know you mentally and physically, he would know what you were capable of, he would know your ability in the ring”.

Three-time All-Ireland winning senior hurling manager, Cyril Farrell recalled getting to know Colum through hurling. “I first came across with Limerick in 1980 when we played them in All-Ireland, I got to know him well, he joined Galway squad and he was an integral part, he was as important as anyone, he wasn’t a great masseur, he was great for getting them confident, he had a feel good factor about him and any doubts a player had when coming back from injury soon disappeared thanks to Colum”.

Cyril said of Flynn’s input to their All-Ireland success, “His value was immense, he got them all

ready to play, all them players in later life would all be using him privately, he never lost touch, himself and Kay came on trips.”

Friendship was maintained through the decades, Cyril told The Clare Echo. “He was a great friend to me, all the group was very tight.

“He has left a legacy wherever he has been, a big man in stature but a gentleman, you’d feel better after talking to him. It is another great person passing,” Farrell added.

Cllr Daly regarded Colum as “one of the greatest sporting characters that the county of Clare ever produced particularly when it came to boxing and hurling”. He noted, “He was one in a million. In 2013 I became Mayor of Clare and as that year progressed, I wanted to honour two great Ennis people that made huge contributions to the sporting world in this county.

“It was easy pick them, Colum Flynn and Noel Pyne, two huge Townies that contributed greatly, both to Éire Óg and Clare hurling.

“One to boxing and one to golf, playing fifty years in a row in the South of Ireland. Colum was a legend and after all his great achievements, there’s no doubt but that he deserved that civic reception. I offer sincere sympathies to Kay and the entire Flynn family”.

Colum is dearly missed by his loving wife Kay, son Padraig, daughters Ciara, Sorcha, Aoife, Katie and Eilish, brother Donal, sisters Mary & Eileen, son-inlaw Seán, daughter-in-law Tracy, much loved grandchildren Colm, Anna and Sam, aunt Eithne, nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and his wide circle of friends.

Driving test wait times in Clare reduce to 10 weeks DRIVER testing times in County Clare are operating on average at the 10-week wait time.

In Auguest last year, The Clare Echo reported that average waiting times at all three testing centres in Clare had increased in the previous year, with average waiting times for driving tests in Ennis had risen to 21 weeks, while Kilrush and Shannon were at 14 and 17 weeks respeciively.

Newly published figures from the Road Safety Authority (RSA) shows that the majority of driver testing centres in country are now operating within the 10-week service level agreement (SLA). Of the 57 centres currently in operation, 35 are operating at or below a 10-week wait, with a further 18 centres operating between 10 and 15 weeks, and 4 centres operating with waiting times in excess of 15 weeks.

In County Clare, Ennis’ waiting time is 10 weeks, in Kilrush it stands at 11 weeks while in Shannon the waiting time has dropped to nine weeks.

The national average waiting time now stands at 10.3 weeks, a slight improvement

Notes

CONNECT TO WELLBEING IN SHANNON LIBRARY Cillian Keane, a facilitator with Mental Health Ireland, will hold an interactive workshop ‘Building Wellbeing’ in Shannon Library on Tuesday 17th February at 10.30am.

This free, hour-long workshop for adults is a great introduction to mental health and wellbeing and promises to be informative, engaging and practical.

on the 10.6 weeks recorded at the end of 2025.

Seán Canney TD, Minister of State with responsibility for Road Safety, said these updates form part of a series of reports he has received following his direction to the RSA to reduce waiting times from a high of 27 weeks at the end of April. The national 10week SLA was achieved in September, with the focus since then on sustaining performance while demand remains elevated.

The update confirms that there are currently 196 testers in service nationwide, with numbers expected to rise to 200 by the end of February following the completion of the next recruitment and training programme.

While demand for tests remains high, the number of people waiting for a test has reduced slightly, from over 80,000 to just under 79,000.

Minister Canney noted that monthly metrics are being introduced to monitor the impact of the forthcoming multiple learner permit policy as it moves towards implementation later this year.

Cillian will look at the 5 Ways to Wellbeing model, which aims to equip participants with the knowledge and attitude to understand and implement actions to support mental health and wellbeing.

For further information and to book a place on the workshop please contact Shannon Public Library at 061 364266 or shannonlibrary@clarecoco. ie

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 05, 2026

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Doonbeg Men’s Shed latest local group to support Trump’s ballroom plans in West Clare

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

DOONBEG’s Men’s Shed has emerged as the latest local group to support plans for a new ballroom at US President Donald Trump’s owned Trump Doonbeg golf resort in West Clare.

In a new submission lodged with Clare County Council, the Doonbeg Men’s Shed of Baltard, Doonbeg has told the Council that the proposal will benefit the wider West Clare area in a number of ways , increase employment, support the wider economy of the area and expand the tourist season.

In the submission in support of the 320 person capacity ballroom signed off by chairman, James Griffin, Treasurers, Pat Aherne and Mick Carrick, it states that the ballroom is proposed for an existing car park and has been part of the original built up area of the resort since the construction of The Lodge at Doonbeg.

In a separate submission in support of the application, business owner, Hugh McNally from Main Street,

Doonbeg has told the Council that the original development of the golf resort around 2000 “was a catalyst for my own decision to return to Doonbeg full time to take over my grandparents’ bar”.

He said, “I am making this submission in support of the above planning applications from the perspective of someone who lives and works in the community and wants to see the area remain vibrant and sustainable for the next generation”.

Mr McNally states, “The resort at Doonbeg is the largest tourism employer in the locality and has a significant positive ripple effect for many other local businesses and service providers”.

He said that from a local community perspective, the planned developments “represent proportionate, well-located investment that supports employment, encourages population retention and growth, and helps ensure that Doonbeg remains a viable place for families to live, work and raise children into the future”.

However, in a separate

submission, Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) has called on the Council to seek a comprehensive statement from the Trump firm on the protected snail the Vertigo Angustior in a request for further information.

In extensive planning documentation lodged with the application, consultants for TIGL Ireland Enterprises Ltd stated that the proposed ballroom will have no impact on the local population of the 2mm Vertigo Angustior.

However, in the FIE submission, Tony Lowes is seeking that the Council in a request for further information request from the Trump firm the current known status and distribution of Vertigo angustior populations inside the Special Area of Conservation and within the golfcourse.

Mr Lowes is also seeking that the Council require the Trump firm to provide all monitoring and conservation-management measures undertaken for Vertigo angustior and its habitats on the Doonbeg lands since 2013, including any changes in grazing, sward manage-

A computer-generated image of the planned ballroom addition to Donald Trump’s Trump Doonbeg golf resort in west Clare.

ment, drainage or other relevant practices.

Mr Lowes is also seeking that the Council request the Trump firm details of any investigations or remedial actions initiated in response to evidence of SAC condition decline since 2014.

Mr Lowes is also seeking that the Council require, as a condition of any permission, that the appropriate monitoring regime originally agreed with National Parks and Wildlife Service

is continued, or if necessary re-established, informed by the original expert work.

Mr Lowes states that the Council should set out specific conservation-management actions (e.g. grazing regimes, vegetation and hydrology management) to be continued or if necessary re-established, aimed at restoring or improving the snail’s conservation status.

Mr Lowes states that these should include clear, timebound targets and a mecha-

nism for review and adjustment if monitoring shows continued decline or lack of recovery.

The submission by the Doonbeg Men’s Shed follows a wave of local support for the scheme.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) who is also a retailer in Doonbeg has told the council that the proposal “represents positive plan-led development that supports local employment”.

In his role as President of the Local Links Golf Club, Doonbeg, Michael Waters has told the Council that “I believe that this development will bring significant benefits to the local area by enhancing the functionality of the property”.

TIGL Ireland Enterprises Ltd have also lodged a companion application for other upgrade works at the resort and Cllr McInerney states that taken together, these applications represent positive plan-led development that supports local employment and indirect economic activity.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Clare bucks national trend with increase in number of intoxication checkpoints

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Clare and Tipperary Garda division has bucked the national trend as one of the only divisions in the country to witness an increase in intoxication driving checkpoints.

A 10.9% increase in Mandatory Intoxication Testing Checkpoints was conducted by An Garda Síochána in the Clare and Tipperary areas between Q3 2024 and Q3 2025, going from 940 checkpoints in Q3 2024 up to 1043 checkpoints in Q3 2025.

EU Transport Committee MEP, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, recently highlighted significant increases in drug driving figures across most Garda districts in Ireland.

The MEP has followed this with an analysis of the number of drink and drug driving checkpoints Gardaí conducted across every district in the country.

Figures taken from the

l CONCERN: MEP Cynthia N Mhurchú (FF) says that drug driving is at an all-time high

Garda PULSE system on November 3, 2025, show significant decreases in the number of Mandatory Intoxication Testing Checkpoints conducted by An Garda Síochána across many Garda districts between Q3 2024 and Q3 2025.

This at a time when drug driving is at epidemic levels and road deaths are soaring.

Some 12,930 Mandatory Intoxication Testing (MIT) Checkpoints were carried out nationally throughout Q3 2024 but this fell to 11,958 checkpoints by Q3 2025, a drop of 7.5% - against a backdrop of a worrying spike in road deaths in Ireland.

Ní Mhurchú described as even more concerning the fact that a simple trawl back through Garda fig-

ures from Q3 2019, show that 15,392 Mandatory Intoxication Testing Checkpoints were carried out nationally during Q3 2019 - 3,434 more checkpoints than in Q3 2025.

140 people were killed on Irish roads in 2019, 45 less people than in 2025.

According to RSA’s yearly provisional road traffic collision figures, Clare’s total road fatalities in 2025 were four, the same as 2024.

Ní Mhurchú, a member of the EU Transport committee, made it clear that with road deaths at unprecedented levels, Garda management should be dramatically increasing the number of Mandatory Intoxication Testing (MIT) Checkpoints on our roads, not decreasing them.

According to Ní Mhurchú, the difference in the number of checkpoints between 2019 and 2025 is frightening.

“Gardaí carried out thousands more roadside alcohol and drug check-

points in 2019 than they did in 2025. The figures speak for themselves.

“In 2019, we had 140 deaths, but in 2025, we had 185 deaths. Drug driving is out of control but now Gardaí are testing less people meaning the drug driving figures I recently received from the courts service are only the tip of the iceberg.

“Those figures show a 37% increase in cases coming before our district courts for drug driving in the first 10 months of 2025.

“This should be evidence enough for Gardaí to launch a massive increase in drug and drink driving checkpoints – but they have done the opposite and reduced them.

“I want to know the rationale for it. If it is a resource issue, lets deal with it but it must be pointed out that there were more Gardaí in 2025 than there were in 2019.”

News

9

Clare scores low on disposable income table

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NEW figures from the Central Statistics Office show that Clare has the sixth lowest disposable income per person in Ireland.

Disposable income per person in the county in 2024 was €25,626 - 15% lower than the state average and around €8,000 less than Dublin.

Longford had the lowest disposable income per person at €23,725, followed by Roscommon at €24,685 and Donegal at €24,686.

At the other end of the scale, Dublin had the highest figure at €33,889 per person, well above the national average of €30,139.

County Limerick recorded the second highest disposable income per person at €30,879, and Cork’s figure was €30,748.

Clare’s social benefits per capita was below the average at €6,929, according to the CSO data.

Over a third (35%) of all employed people in Ireland worked in the Dublin area in 2024, followed

by Cork with 12% and Galway with 6%.

Founder of honest.ie Dan Malone said, “86% of Irish household cash is sitting idle in current account or demand deposit accounts losing -1.91% per year after taxes and inflation... so we need to do more to make sure savers are being rewarded for their efforts.”

10

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

News

Clare councillors call out Irish bank’s support of Israel

by Dearbhla Parry

CLARE councillors are asking for an Irish bank to stop any sale of Israeli bonds.

At Clare County Council’s January meeting, a call was made on the Central Bank of Ireland to stop facilitating the sale of Israeli Bonds.

The notice of motion submitted by Cllr James Ryan (SF) at the January Clare

In July 2024, Israel were declared to be committing the crime of apartheid, according to an ICJ ruling. Ryan told the Council, “All institutions are under obligation under international law to prevent genocide and abuse of human rights.”

“That is not the view of this chamber,” Cllr David Griffin (FF) said in agreement with Ryan’s motion. “My under-

County Council meeting stated, “We are gravely concerned that the Central Bank of Ireland is regulating the Israeli Bonds Issuance Programme and, thereby, facilitating the sale throughout Europe of bonds which are funding genocide in Gaza…

We believe that the Central Bank of Ireland must end all complicity in genocide. We, therefore, call on the Central Bank of Ireland to immediately end the regulation of the Israeli Bond Issuance Programme.”

The bonds, known as ‘Israel Bonds’, have raised funds for the Israeli Treasury since 1951 to use across the Israeli economy. “The bonds are now being advertised as war bonds and are funding the genocide in Gaza,” Ryan explained.

He further noted that the International Court of Justice (ICJ) confirmed the plausibility of the charge of genocide against Israel in January 2024 and in June of that same year, the UN’s International Commission of Inquiry on Palestine found that Israel’s actions in Gaza “constitute the war crimes of wilful killing and mistreatment, and the crime against humanity of extermination”.

standing was that the Central Bank was no longer involved.

I’m interested to know their response.” “If there is underhanded activity going on in the bank, we clearly need to know what’s going on,” Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) added.

The Central Bank of Ireland have created a FAQ section on their website in response to backlash. They have written, “In recent weeks we have received queries from members of the public about the Central Bank’s role approving bond prospectuses, in particular bond prospectus applications from the State of Israel.”

In response to the question online, “Are there not sufficient grounds to refuse to approve the Israeli State’s bond prospectus application?”, they answer, “The law is clear that we have to approve a prospectus for the offer of securities to the public as long as the prospectus meets the required standards of completeness, comprehensibility and consistency.”

“The prospectus documentation for the Israeli bond programme contains all the necessary information for investors to make an informed investment decision as required under the Prospectus

news@clareecho.ie

Regulation, and for this reason it has been approved by the Central Bank of Ireland.”

They claim, “Like many across Ireland, we are appalled by the death and destruction that we have seen in the Middle East and we want to see an immediate end to hostilities by all parties.”

Ryan continued, “We can all agree that there is serious genocide happening. Israel is trying to break up all these areas as much as possible.”

“Its entire regime of military occupation of Palestinian territories is illegal and must end immediately.”

Seconded by Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), he added, “This motion is very timely.

We have strong stood with Gaza and the right of people to exist. This is the time when we need to stand firm, particularly in international laws.”

A total of 71,667 people have been killed to date in Gaza since Israel’s assault on October 7th 2023, according to the Gaza Ministry of Health.

While comparing the situation to the 2025 film ‘Nuremberg’, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) told councillors, “It is so horrific to see that happen to people in Palestine.” He explained that characters in the movie conducted psychological evaluations of nazis after WWII and came to the conclusion that these viewpoints were not just confined to “evil nazis”. “It’s a very sobering thought. Any right-thinking person has a right to speak against it. I’m happy to support the motion in that context.”

Last year, the Government turned down the Social Democrats’ motion demanding that the Central Bank of Ireland stop facilitating the sale of Israeli war bonds. Soon after, Donna McGettigan TD (SF) called on Clare Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael TDs Timmy Dooley (FF), Cathal Crowe (FF), and Joe Cooney (FG) to explain their party’s actions; “History will show that Clare Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael TDs are on the wrong side of history here.”

Pictured Cllr James Ryan (SF)

11

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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News

Kilkee woman pleads guilty to four more charges from fatal road crash of teacher

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 33-year old Kilkee woman has pleaded guilty to four more charges arising from the road death of former school teacher, Michael Lorigan (70).

At Ennis Circuit Court on Tuesday, Ms Saoirse Lillis McMahon of Moveen East, Kilkee pleaded guilty to four more road traffic offences, including drink driving and driving under the influence of an intoxicant, in connection with the road death of cyclist, Michael Lorigan on August 16th 2023 on the N67 at Baunmore, Kilkee.

In December, Ms Lillis McMahon had pleaded guilty to the dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Lorigan at the same location on the same date. The fatal road traffic incident occurred at around 12.30pm on the day.

Ms Lillis McMahon has now pleaded guilty to drink driving at the same location on the same date where there she had a concentration of 93 mg of alcohol per 100ml of urine.

Ms Lillis McMahon has also pleaded guilty to being under the influence of an intoxicant

to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of her vehicle at the same location on the same date.

Ms Lillis McMahon has also pleaded guilty to driving without insurance and driving a defective vehicle at the same location on the same date.

Judge Francis Comerford said on Tuesday that the case concerned “a very grave matter”.

Ms Lillis McMahon is not driving currently as the court h e a r d that she was late to court as she mixed up her dates for a lift to court.

Counsel for Ms Lillis McMahaon, Rebecca Treacy BL (instructed by solicitor, John Casey) applied for a Probation Report for the sentencing hearing.

Judge Comerford has previously ordered a psychological report on Ms Lillis McMahon.

Ms Treacy said that the Probation Report would be of assistance to the background of the matter as there are a multitude of counts.

Ms Treacy said that Ms Lillis McMahon’s only previous convictions concern driving offences.

However, Judge Comerford said that the offences before the court “show very serious criminal intent in respect to driving offence”.

Ju d ge Comerford refused the application for a Probation Report stating that the psychological report would cover much the same ground.

Counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford BL said that members of Mr Lorigan’s family were in court “and I do know that the family would like the matter dealt with”.

Ms Comerford (instructed

Clare’s District Court judge Gabbett promoted to Circuit Court

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

Clare’s District Justice, Judge Alec Gabbett has been appointed by the Government to be a judge of the Circuit Court.

Judge Gabbett is expected to take up his new role in the next number of weeks that will leave Co Clare without an assigned district judge for a period unless the Government acts quickly to fill the position on a permanent basis.

A spokesman for the Courts Service confirmed Judge Gabbett’s appointment to the Circuit Court.

Judge Gabbett’s promotion comes more than five years after the Limerick native was appointed a District Court judge in November 2020.

Judge Gabbett first served as a moveable judge before being appointed Clare’s judge to cover District 12 when he succeeded Judge Mary Larkin who retired in May 2023.

During his time in Clare,

Judge Alec Gabbett

Judge Gabbett heard cases across the criminal, civil and family law areas.

District 12 covers courts in Ennis, Kilrush, Killaloe in Clare and Gort in South Galway.

Judge Gabbett, aged 49, worked as a solicitor for 19 years before his appointment to the judiciary in 2020.

Prior to becoming a judge, Alec Gabbett was a partner at Leahy Reidy Solicitors in Limerick.

It is expected that an un-

assigned judge or judges will serve the District Court in Clare before Government makes a full-time appointment to succeed Judge Gabbett. It is likely that Judge Gabbett will first work as an unassigned judge of the Circuit Court when he takes up his new role.

The salary for a district court judge commences at €144,856 while the salary for a circuit court judge in Year One is €166,720.

by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) said that she has explained to the family that the sentencing would most likely be after Easter sessions.

Judge Comerford said that he would assign the sentencing hearing priority.

Judge Comerford further remanded Ms Lillis McMahon on bail to March 5th to fix a date for sentencing.

Originally from Benvoran, Kilmurry McMahon, Co Clare and living in Kilkishen at the time of his death, Mr Lorigan taught for a number of decades at the Model School in Limerick city.

Mr Lorigan taught there from the mid-1970s until his retirement and was remembered as an inspirational, kind, patient, dedicated and wonderful teacher in the many tributes from former students at the time of his death in August 2023.

In later years, Mr Lorigan became a keen cyclist, and took part in the Clare 250 mile cycle many times.

Pictured Saoirse Lillis McMahon

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Thursday, Feb 6, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional news

Lahinch Playground to reopen this week following major refurbishment

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

Clare County Council has announced the reopening of the newly refurbished Lahinch Playground, featuring enhanced accessible facilities for all children.

The playground, representing a total investment of just over €240,000, will open to the public from Thursday February 5, 2026.

A wide range of new, innovative, and accessible equipment is now part of the playground, including a new pendulum swing, a wheelchair-accessible carousel, an accessible ramped deck, a new climber, a balance beam, sensory communication play panels, a rattle roller wheel, eco-multi chimes, seat posts and roundtables, as well as a fairytale throne.

All equipment has also been specially treated to help withstand the coastal elements and improve the durability of the seaside playground.

Cathaoirleach of West Clare Municipal District (MD), Cllr Bill Slattery, said, “I am thrilled to see Lahinch Playground reopen with improved, accessible features that make a real difference for families in our community. This project reflects Clare County Council’s ded-

lROUND THEY GO: Local children get a sneak peek at the new Playground in Lahinch ahead of the opening today Photo by Eamon Ward

ication to inclusion and to providing top-quality recreational spaces for everyone.”

Director of Services for Transport, Climate Action, Recreation, Environmental and Emergency Services, Dr Carmel Kirby, said, “The project was made possible through combined funding of approximately €165,000 from the Community Recognition Fund

(CRF) and over €75,000 from Clare County Council. This collaboration underscores the Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces for the benefit of residents and visitors alike.”

Senior Executive Officer for Ennistymon Electoral Area, Eoin Troy, added, “While Clare County Council has now assumed management of the playground, we wish to

Clare students lead way in online safety

TWO students from Ennistymon Community School are among over 100 students from across Ireland taking part in the Webwise Safer Internet Day (SID) Ambassador Training Programme 2026.

This peer-led initiative equips students with the knowledge and skills to run their own online safety campaigns within their schools and local communities.

Rory Fitzgerald and Emily Fitzgerald attended an in-person training day in Dublin, where they received guidance and support from the Webwise Youth Advisory Panel in addressing key issues like online bullying, misinformation, wellbeing, privacy, and digital rights.

Safer Internet Day 2026 will

Notes

take place on Tuesday, February 10, under the theme "AI Aware: Safe, Smart and in Control."

This year’s campaign encourages schools, parents, young people, and educators to reflect on how AI technologies are shaping children’s online experiences. It highlights the benefits, risks and challenges of AI, and aims to empower them to engage with AI safely and responsibly.

Safer Internet Day (SID) is an EU wide initiative to promote a safer internet for all users, especially young peo-

FAMINE EXPERIENCES IN CLARE Clare Roots Society’s February meeting will be held in the Clare Education Centre on the Kilrush Road in Ennis on Thursday February 19th at 7:30pm.

Talk title - Power and Persuasion: What Administrative Choices Reveal About Your Clare Ancestors’ Famine Experience Speaker Bio - Eamon Healy is a professional genealogist and historian who recently completed his PhD in History at Maynooth University.

Eamon previously presented to Clare Roots Society in 2021 on researching workhouse ancestors, and returns with new insights from his completed doctoral research. His research examined how administrative choices during Ireland’s Great Famine shaped survival outcomes.

This talk gives Clare genealogists and historians

ple. It is promoted in Ireland by the Oide Technology in Education and Webwise, with over 200,000 people taking part in last year’s celebrations.

a framework for understanding what they find in workhouse records and census returns.

BRIGID AND HER HOLY WELLS As we celebrate Brigid’s feast, join us for a conversation with U.S. author, of “Brigid’s Mantle”, Nancy Fitzgerald, who weaves together pilgrimage, folklore and contemporary reflection.

Nancy visited holy wells, sacred springs and ancient sites dedicated to Brigid. Through her travels she connected holy spaces in Ireland with spiritual meaning. Deeply engaged with Celtic Spirituality and women’s leadership in the Church, Nancy is focused on the enduring relevance of Brigid’s wisdom for today.

Venue: St. Brigid’s Church, Liscannor.

Date: Saturday, February 7th., 2026.

Time: 7pm (after 6:30 Mass) All welcome. Free event.

acknowledge the role of the local community group in its original development. The community’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance ensured that the playground was developed in Lahinch and remained open and enjoyed by children for many years. It is also important that we recognise the commitment and community spirit of the late Gerard Hartigan, to whose memory the playground was, and will continue to be, dedicated.”

The Lahinch Playground is open to local children and visitors seven days a week.All equipment has also been specially treated to help withstand the coastal elements and improve the durability of the seaside playground.

Last March, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) and Cllr Shane Talty (FF) called on the local authority to “urgently proceed with design and redevelopment works” at Lahinch playground.

Opened in 2010, insurance premiums for the playground jumped from €400 then to €6,000 in 2018.

The most recent premium had been taken out by a local community group with the assistance of Cllr Talty.

Cllr Slattery stated, “I am thrilled to see Lahinch Playground reopen

with improved, accessible features that make a real difference for families in our community. This project reflects Clare County Council’s dedication to inclusion and to providing top-quality recreational spaces for everyone”.

Director of Services for Transport, Climate Action, Recreation, Environmental and Emergency Services, Dr Carmel Kirby noted, “This collaboration underscores the Council’s ongoing commitment to enhancing public spaces for the benefit of residents and visitors alike”.

Senior Executive Officer for Ennistymon Electoral Area, Eoin Troy, added, “While Clare County Council has now assumed management of the playground, we wish to acknowledge the role of the local community group in its original development. The community’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance ensured that the playground was developed in Lahinch and remained open and enjoyed by children for many years. It is also important that we recognise the commitment and community spirit of the late Gerard Hartigan, to whose memory the playground was and will continue to be dedicated”.

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Ennis

NO ONE-TRICK PONIES! ‘If you’d like to do something

meaningful, SVP is a brilliant place to start’ - Clare volunteer

l Members of the Vocal Ponies who took part in the Spring Into Song Ennis Choral Festival 2026 at the weekend, (l-r) Elaine O’Sullivan, Nora Hehir, Michelle Vaughan and Evelyn Raffetry Photo by Joe Buckley

The Society of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) is appealing for new volunteers in Clare to support individuals and families who are struggling with the rising cost of living, isolation and unexpected financial pressures.

SVP volunteers provide practical assistance and companionship, helping people to navigate difficult moments with dignity and peace of mind.

Noreen Hayes, a volunteer from Ennis, said: "I joined the St Francis Conference in Ennis a year ago because I wanted to understand what SVP does day to day - and I quickly realised that the network of charity shops are only one part of the organisation.

As a visitation volunteer, I’ve seen how prac-

tical supports like food and electricity vouchers can take the pressure off when an unexpected bill hits. If you’d like to get out in the community and do something meaningful, SVP is a brilliant place to start."

SVP is currently looking for kind, reliable volunteers who can offer even a small amount of time each week.

SVP is inviting people across Clare to step forward and strengthen their community. If you can spare a few hours a week, SVP will help you find a role where you can make a real difference. To find out more and register your interest, visit svp.ie/ volunteer.

Gaelcholáiste an Chláir and Ennis Community College celebrate Imbolc with cultural morning

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

GAELCHOLÁISTE an Chláir and Ennis Community College marked St Brigid’s Day and Imbolc with an energetic and inspiring morning of cultural and language-based activities, celebrating Irish heritage, community spirit, and the Irish language.

The programme featured a wide range of engaging events, including an Irish-language coffee morning for parents, a bilingual St Brigid’s cross-making workshop, a lively Siamsaíocht session for visiting pupils from Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg, and a yoga class trí Ghaeilge for Sixth Year students and parents.

The school community was delighted to welcome Bishop Fintan Monahan, who blessed the rushes in advance of the cross-making workshop.

Other distinguished guests included Irish Language Officer Rory Hinchy and members of An Ciorcal Cainte; Leah Ní Thaltaigh, Clare GAA Irish Language Officer and member of An Clár as Gaeilge; Treasa Ní Riain of An Clár as Gaeilge; storyteller Julie Ann de Brun; teacher Caoilfhionn Ní Fheihil; and

lCELEBRATION: Dónal Ó hAiniféin, Principal of Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg, Bishop Fintan Monahan, and Múinteoir i bhFeighil at Gaecholáiste an Chláir, Aine Uí Chonsaidín, at the Gaelcholáiste an Chláir and Ennis Community College St Brigid’s Day and Imbolc Cultural Morning; (right) Domhnall Ó Loingsigh with Sile Ní Dheargain yoga instructor Cian Ó Sulli- Dónal Ó hAiniféin, Principal Principal of Gaelscoil Iosef van. of Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg; Naofa, highlighting the The event was further Dara Ó Cinnéide, Principal strong collaboration within strengthened by strong rep- of Gaelscoil Donncha Rua; the Irish-language education resentation from Irish-me- Aisling Ní Áirtnéada, Princi- community in Clare. dium education across the pal of Gaelscoil Uí Choimín; Gaelcholáiste an Chláir county. Attendees included and Eibhlís Mhic Gearailt, and Ennis Community Col-

lege were delighted with the turn out at the event and hope to build on its success with a float inspired by sea warrior Manannán Mac Lír at the St Patrick’s day parade.

The event was coordinated by Art Teacher, Sile Ní

Dheargain. The celebration provided a meaningful and joyful way to honour St Brigid’s Day and Imbolc, while promoting the Irish language and strengthening connections across the local community.

14

Thursday, Feb 15, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon

Setting sun at Shannon Airport Foggy conditions results in 3 diversions to Shannon Airport

L

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

OW visibility caused by foggy weather resulted in three flights from the United Kingdom diverting to Shannon Airport on Monday morning.

Three flights scheduled l Shannon Airport to land at Ireland West Airport in Knock divered rary stopover, and once to Shannon Airport on weather conditions imMonday morning due to proved and fog lifted at fog-related low visibili- Ireland West Airport, ty conditions at Ireland each flight was able to depart Shannon and continWest.

Diverted flights were ue its journey.

“Shannon Airport opFR890 from Edinburgh, FR6560 from Liverpool erational teams were on and FR805 from Stansted hand to facilitate the diAll aircraft landed safe- versions and ensure airly at Shannon Airport. craft were able to resume Passengers remained on operations with minimal board during the tempo- delay.

The Shannon Airport Group remains committed to supporting airlines and airport partners when adverse weather impacts normal operations and wishes all passengers safe onward travel,” a spokesperson for the Shannon Airport Group told The Clare Echo. l Well-known County Clare photographer Arthur Ellis captures a stunning sunset over Shannon

skies earlier this week Photo by Arthur Ellis

Shannon students recognised at SciFest

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

Two secondary school students from St Patrick’s Comprehensive School, Shannon, have been recognised at the SciFest@TeenTurn event, held at Avantor in Dublin, for their behavioural science project exploring chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Chloe O’Loughlin and Biella Pulido, from Co Clare, were awarded Junior First Place in the Behavioural Science category for their project, which focuses on raising awareness of the increasing incidence of CKD among teenagers and young people. In recognition of their work, the students received Apple iPad prizes, part of a contribution by BNY. Chronic kidney disease is a long-term condition in which the kidneys become damaged and gradually lose function. Through their research, the students highlighted that a condition once largely associated with older adults is now increasingly affecting younger people, with lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diets, fizzy drinks, processed foods, smoking and vaping, excessive salt intake and overmedication all contributing to the rise.

Speaking about how the idea for the project developed, the students said they were motivated by growing concern around youth health. “We realised that more teenagers and young people are being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, and we wanted to raise awareness of how serious it is and what

l Biella (left) and Chloe (right) pictured with Osas Samuel from Teen-Turn at SciFest@ Teen-Turn

factors can contribute to it,” Biella said.

Chloe said she was particularly proud of

how the project was presented. “I think we were much more prepared than last year and

really showed the work we had put in. It felt like a big step forward for us,” she said.

Both students took part in Teen-Turn’s Project Squad programme, which provides weekly structured sessions supported by mentors over the course of three months.

Reflecting on the experience, Chloe said the sessions boosted her confidence in STEM. “I feel much more comfortable now pursuing a career in science or engineering, and a lot more confident in my ability to work on STEM projects than I was before Teen-Turn,” she said.

Their mentor, Jacquie Murphy, a teacher at St Patrick’s Comprehensive, highlighted the importance of initiatives like Teen-Turn for girls interested in STEM. “Programmes like Teen-Turn and SciFest are vital. They give girls the time, resources and encouragement to pursue topics they are genuinely passionate about, build new networks, and develop real confidence in STEM outside the classroom,” she said.

Teen-Turn is a non-profit organisation that supports teenage girls to explore STEM through free after-school programmes, mentoring and hands-on projects. For ten years, through initiatives such as Project Squad, PLUS Club, Technovation, and Work Experience, students gain confidence, practical skills and insight into future education and career pathways in science and technology.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Gort & South Galway

15

Ballinasloe farmer admits sexual assault of girl (16) on Shannon-Boston flight

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 58 year old man has pleaded guilty to the sexual assault of a then 16 year old girl on board a transatlantic Aer Lingus flight bound for Boston.

At Ennis Circuit Court on Tuesday, Patrick Noone pleaded guilty when arraigned on two counts of sexual assault contrary to Section 2 of the Criminal Law (Rape) Amendment Act on November 15, 2023.

As a result of cabin crew informing the captain of the Aer Lingus flight that a male passenger had allegedly inappropriately touched a teenage girl sitting beside him on the flight, the captain turned the Boston bound plane around and journeyed back to Shannon Airport.

In the case, Mr Noone of Curragh, Kilconnell, Ballinasloe, Co Galway pleaded guilty to sexual assault of the girl by rubbing and grabbing her buttocks on board the E1 135 Aer Lingus flight within the jurisdiction of the Irish State.

Mr Noone also pleaded guilty to the sexual assault of the girl by kissing her arm and rubbing her thigh on the flight.

Counsel for Mr Noone, Antoinette Simon BL told the court on Tuesday that her client is a self-employed farmer and has no previous convictions.

Ms Simon (instructed by solicitor, Kieran O’Brien) asked for a Probation Report on her client for the sentencing hearing as it may provide insight into his offending.

Judge Francis Comerford granted the request and also directed that Gardaí seek a victim impact statement from the complainant in the case.

Mr Noone has not been named before now in connection with the sexual assault and Judge Comerford said that he didn’t see any basis for reporting restrictions on the accused.

Counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) told Judge Comerford that there is no connection between Mr Noone and the injured party.

Ms Comerford said that Mr Noone’s side more than two weeks ago offered the guilty plea.

Ms Comerford said that this was of some assistance as arrangements had been made for the US based witnesses to provide their evidence via video-link for the trial.

In December, Judge Comerford granted permission for four State witnesses to give evidence via video link from the US in the trial.

Ms Comerford told the court in December that one of the four to give evidence via video-link is the complainant in the case.

Ms Comerford said that the

complainant now aged 18 and 16 at the time of the alleged offence is currently studying in a US college.

Ms Comerford said that the complainant’s grand-mother was a witness in the Book of Evidence and as she is an elderly lady and a resident of the US, as are two other females who were on the flight.

When the case was before the District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett transferred the case to the Circuit Court where more serious penalties apply on conviction after hearing an outline of the case against the man.

Det Garda Ruth O’Sullivan told the court previously that the costs to Aer Lingus of returning the Boston bound aircraft to Shannon is €28,213.

Giving an outline of the alleged sexual assaults, Det Garda O’Sullivan said that an hour into the transatlantic flight at around 3.30pm, a young girl informed cabin crew that a male passenger sitting beside her had touched her inappropriately.

Det Garda O’Sullivan said, “They then informed the captain who took a decision to turn the flight back to Shannon”.

She said that the young girl and her family returned to Shannon Airport where statements were obtained in the short turnaround before they took off again for the US.

lEXHIBITION: Keepers and Transmitters by Sharon Phelan

Cash Shop opening reception THE opening reception of artist and composer Sharon Phelan’s installation in Gort will take place this weekend.

Keepers and Transmitters runs by Sharon Phelan runs at The Cash Shop, Bridge Street, Gort, from February 7 to May 2, with an opening reception taking place this Saturday from 1-3pm.

Sharon Phelan’s practice “attempts to activate a correspondence between language, objects and events, where a certain kind of sonic imagination might be articulated”.

Her installations posit themselves as field recordings — translating, transforming or reframing natural phenomena like geological fossils preserving ancient life.

Her press statement says, “Drawn to the suggestive potential of field recording by other means than the microphone, Keepers and Transmitters presents a group of encrypted sounds in the form of sculptural works, found poems and drawings. From otoliths to oscilloscopes to very low frequency receivers, these sonic images open up alternate ways of listening, with sound in mind and mind in sound, and where birch is the first letter of the alphabet.”

A series of live performances and a publication will mark the closing of the exhibition. https://thecashshop.ie/

Radisson RED gets ahead

Voices from the Ploughed Field

The Radisson RED Galway along with its sister hotel the Radisson Blu Royal in Dublin have won awards at the 2025 Gold Medal Hotel Awards, one of the country’s most respected hospitality ceremonies.

Winners were announced on January 27 at The Galmont Hotel & Spa in Galway. Broadcaster Anton Savage hosted the evening, which brought together Ireland’s top hospitality professionals to celebrate excellence and outstanding service.

With over 1,000 entries, The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin took home Gold for Ireland’s Business & Conference Hotel while Radisson RED Galway won Silver for Ireland’s Four-Star Hotel.

Madeline Riley, CEO of

GORT Town Hall will host an evening of poetry and music this Friday evening.

The Ploughed Field Collective, Gort, is proud to announce an exceptional line-up for ‘Voices from the Ploughed Field’, an evening celebrating poetry and live music at Gort Town Hall on Friday, 6 February 2026.

It promises to be a vibrant night showcasing remarkable local talent.

All funds raised go directly to the Ploughed Field Collective and their work

the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin & Radisson RED Galway, said: “For Radisson RED Galway to win Silver just over a year after opening is remarkable. It shows how the team

has embraced the RED spirit, bringing energy, creativity, and a fresh approach to hospitality in the west of Ireland. Both wins belong to our team members behind these hotels.”

in d e veloping poetry and creative writing in South Galway and North Clare.

Singers/musicians on the night include The Burren Bandits (pictured), Jenna Coughlan, The Misfits, and Gort Community Choir (Our Voice Our Community – OTOV).

Poets include Anna O’Donnell, Anthony Coppinger, Ben Thompson, Bill Richardson, Daniel Monaghan, Justin McDermott, Leo Smyth, Mallika McCarthy, Patrick Hynes, and Phil Stankard.

Committed to the development of inclu-

sive and accessible poetry and creative writing, The Ploughed Field Collective is an arts group based in Gort, Co Galway. They can be contacted at ploughedfieldcollective@gmail.com or follow them on their Facebook page.

Doors open at 7.30 p.m. Tickets will be available at the door: €10 for adults and €5 for under-16s.

Further information contact Justin McDermott at ploughedfieldcollective@gmail.com

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

News

Ireland’s first horseshoe crab fossil discovered in Doolin

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A HORSESHOE crab fossil dating back more than three hundred million years, has been discovered at the Burren UNESCO Global Geopark.

Identified as Euproops danae, a species familiar to the UK, Europe, Russia and North America, the fossil is only two centimeters in size.

This is the first record of this species in Ireland and the first new horseshoe crab fossil to have been discovered in Ireland since the 1800s.

Dr Pierre Gueriau, a specialist in arthropod fossils from the University of Laus-

anne, Switzerland discovered the fossil near Doolin. He found the petrified remains while conducting collaborative fieldwork with Dr Eamon Doyle, Geologist for the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.

“I was amazed to find this fossil after many hours of searching. I immediately knew that it was a significant find and an important addition to the known fossil fauna of the rocks of Clare and Ireland,” Dr Gueriau stated.

“I had previously found the tiny footprints of horseshoe crabs preserved in the rocks here as trace fossils, so seeing an example of the actual animal that made them

was thrilling. This discovery highlights the benefits of collaborative work with international colleagues,” Dr Doyle outlined.

The discovery has been published by Dr Gueriau and Dr Doyle in the latest issue of the Irish Journal of Earth Sciences.

The Clare Shale Formation, where the fossil was located, is a mudstone deposit that was formed in a relatively deep sea near the equator.

It has taken 320 million years for the rocks to be transported to where they are now on the west coast of Clare.

It is likely that the horseshoe crab, which is not actually a crab but a repre-

sentative of xiphosurans, a different type of arthropod closely related to scorpions and spiders, was transported into deep water by offshore currents before dying and being preserved as a fossil.

Most Carboniferous horseshoe crabs are found in very shallow water deposits. Modern horseshoe crabs come ashore in their thousands on sandy beaches along the east coast of the USA for spawning, excavating nests and laying thousands of eggs. It is not known if the ancient fossil forms behaved in a similar way. The specimen is curated in the collection of the Geological Museum of Trinity College Dublin.

‘Significant’ offshore opportunities for Shannon Estuary says Dooley

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE TD and Junior Minister, Timmy Dooley (FF) has said the Shannon Estuary will have “significant” opportunities for offshore wind amid the energy transition.

Speaking in Foynes at the ‘Future of Offshore Wind’, the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food, Fisheries and the Marine and Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment noted the potential of the Shannon Estuary and the Mid-West had to offer on the renewable energy front.

He said offshore wind will be “a crucial component” of Ireland’s energy system and a major part of the national plan to cut emissions and strengthen energy security. “Ireland has made real progress in accelerating offshore wind in recent years. We now have a clear pipeline of projects and a strong policy framework that is moving from planning into delivery”.

Junior Minister Dooley noted five early-stage offshore wind projects, with a combined capacity of 3.8 gigawatts, are currently in the planning system and are expected to begin generating electricity from 2031 or 2032.

Loacting Friday’s event in Foynes was particularly significant he felt, because Ireland will need ports and marine infrastructure to build offshore wind farms over the coming decades, and the Shannon Estuary will be key to this. “Ports will be critical to offshore wind, not just for construction but for long-term operations, maintenance and the supply chain. Foynes and the Shannon Estuary have the potential to play a major role in that story,” he stated.

Ambitious plans of the Shannon Foynes Port Company to develop a deepwater port at Foynes Island, aimed at supporting future offshore wind development, particularly floating offshore wind on the Atlantic coast were referenced by Dooley. He said work was continuing on a

national maritime plan to identify suitable offshore areas around Ireland’s coastline for renewable energy. The aim is to support the overall national ambition of reaching 20 gigawatts of offshore renewable energy by 2040.

He also highlighted the State’s offshore surveying programme, which gathers and shares information about seabed conditions and weather/wave patterns to help prepare sites for auction and reduce risk for bidders. He confirmed €8 million has been secured for 2026 to continue this work, with a focus on surveys for the next planned auction site.

“We all have a stake in the energy transition. It can deliver for our environment, our economy and our communities. The opportunities for regions like the Shannon Estuary are significant”.

17

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Updated onshore wind energy guidelines needed urgently - Crowe

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

UPDATED onshore wind energy guidelines need to be published as a matter of urgency, a Clare TD has said.

Existing Wind Energy Development Guidelines which were published in 2006 are currently used to govern all proposed developments in this sector. A review of the guidelines is currently underway.

Wind farm developments over the past nineteen years have to follow the 2006 guidelines.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) noted, “When those guidelines were produced, the installed wind energy ca-

pacity was less than 1000 MW. In the two decades since, the total installed energy capacity has increased five-fold, all of which has come under the same 2006 guidelines. In addition to the increase in windfarms and proposals for windfarms we have seen the height of wind turbines more than doubling, with plans for windfarms in parts of the country having a wing tip in excess of 200 metres.

“These are mammoth developments and as the plans are expanding and getting bigger and taller, it is vital that the guidelines which planners use to assess the appropriateness of these

windfarms needs to be urgently updated and published,” he said.

Across the county, there are several planning applications for developments of onshore wind farm developments. “Local residents are citing concerns around aspects such as setback, noise, shadow flicker, community obligation and size. Any updates to the guidelines may directly address elements of these aspects yet if they are published after planning for a development is granted, it will be too late to retrospectively apply these conditions to developments. Therefore, it is imperative that the updated wind energy

development guidelines are urgently publish,” Deputy Crowe said.

Community engagement must get greater prominence in updated guidelines, he argued.

“Among the updated guidelines, I think it is vital that the need for and importance of community engagement is particularly highlighted. So often when a development is being proposed, a leaflet drop might be organised but other thorough forms of engagement, such as public community meetings, are not properly organised and this leaves a lot of residents with serious questions about how developments will impact their

daily life. This can lead to deep-rooted resentment in communities and can leave so many important questions unanswered. I think it is crucial that appropriate levels of face-to-face engagement is outlined for proposed developments.

“The Government has plans for 80% of our energy being generated by renewable sources by 2030, including 9,000MW of onshore wind energy generation.

I appreciate that it is important that the guidelines being prepared are thorough, fit-for-purpose and contain appropriate futureproofing, but these developments are progressing already and it will be too late for

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communities affected by issues not addressed by out-of-date guidelines.

We absolutely need wind energy generation but these turbine sites need to be appropriately sized, in the right locations and built in collaboration with the communities they will be based in”.

Cathal Crowe

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

News

11-year-old Saoirse from Liscannor joins Donal Skehan to launch Great Irish Bake for sick children

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

One-year-old Saoirse McDonagh Davis from Liscannor has joined Donal Skehan to help launch the Great Irish Bake in support of the Children’s Health Foundation.

Award-winning food writer and TV presenter Skehan is returning as Ambassador for the 18th Annual Great Irish Bake for Sick Children, calling on people across Ireland to roll up their sleeves and raise vital funds for children receiving care in Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) hospitals and urgent care centres.

To thank participants, bakers will also be in with a chance to win a range of prizes, including a €1,500 Centre Parcs voucher, a Kenwood stand mixer and Gem baking hampers.

Long-time sponsor Gem is marking its eighth year supporting the campaign.

This year’s campaign is fronted by Saoirse McDonagh Davis from County Clare, a brave young nephrology patient who represents the thousands of children and families who rely on CHI services

every day.

Taking place on Friday, March 27, the Great Irish Bake invites individuals, families, schools, workplaces and community groups to host bake sales and coffee mornings in support of sick children.

With Donal Skehan’s

campaign brings people together in a simple but powerful way, with a bake and a cuppa making a real difference to children and families when they need it most.

Born healthy, Saoirse was diagnosed shortly after her first birthday with

support and the generosity of bakers nationwide, the Great Irish Bake has raised more than €1 million over the past five years. The funds have supported vital therapies, family services, innovative technologies and life-saving research across CHI hospitals and urgent care centres in Crumlin, Temple Street, Tallaght and Connolly.

Speaking at the launch, Donal Skehan said the

a rare hereditary kidney condition, also affecting her father. She now travels from Clare three times a week for life-saving dialysis treatment at CHI Temple Street.

The Great Irish Bake is open to everyone.

Supporters can access baking tips, recipes and downloadable resources to help make their event a success.

Register at childrenshealth.ie/GreatIrishBake

Thought for the week: “Where Is the Love?”

Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY I was listening to Marty in the morning on Lyric FM radio recently, as I often do, a small refuge from the relentless weight of toxic news, the sorrow, hate and division that seem to echo endlessly through our world. And then a song played, “Where Is the Love?” by Roberta Flack. It felt less like music and more like a prayer drifting through the room. Because isn’t that the question so many of us are carrying right now? Where is the love in a world that feels so broken, so wounded, so exhausted? Where is the love in the cruelty, the wars, the injustice, the loneliness, the hate, the racism, the fear?

And perhaps most tender of all, where is God’s love in the midst of it all?

A BROKEN WORLD AND A FAITHFUL GOD The world is broken. Scripture never pretends otherwise.

Human sin, selfishness, pride, fear, hate, racism and trauma have fractured our relationships with God and with one another. We see the fruit of that brokenness everywhere such as division instead of unity, judgment instead of mercy, self-protection instead of compassion. Yet here is the holy paradox, God’s love has not diminished, even when the world has. “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” Psalm 34:18.

God is not distant from our pain. He is not indifferent to our suffering. He is not absent from the chaos. When love feels scarce, it is not because God has withdrawn but because His love is so often obscured by fear, woundedness, and the noise of the world.

Love is one of the most powerful forces in human existence. It shapes our relationships, influences our decisions, and defines how we see one another. And yet, in a world marked by selfishness, hatred, and division, true love can feel rare. Part of the reason is that we have confused love with feeling, attraction, affection, chemistry, convenience. But Scripture tells us something far deeper.

Love is not merely an emotion.

It is a choice, a commitment, a way of life. “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud.”

1 Corinthians 13:4. God’s love is steady in trial, humble in strength, and selfless in action.

WHAT LOVE REALLY IS The world often speaks of love as a feeling, fleeting, conditional, transactional. But God’s love is something alto-

gether different. It is Agape love, unconditional, sacrificial, self-giving. “God demonstrates His own love for us in this: while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. This love does not wait for us to be worthy. It does not withdraw when we fail. It does not depend on perfection or performance “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:8. Every genuine expression of love flows from Him. We do not manufacture love, we receive it, and then reflect it. God’s love is unconditional. Even in our brokenness, He loves us faithfully and fiercely. And nowhere is that love more clearly revealed than in Jesus Christ.

THE LOVE THAT WENT TO THE CROSS Have you ever truly considered the kind of love that carried Jesus to the cross?

Not love born of obligation.

But love that chose suffering when escape was possible.

Jesus knew the anguish that awaited Him, the betrayal, the mocking, the pain, the nails, the cross. And still, He went forward. For sinners. For enemies. For us.

“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13.

The gospel of Jesus Christ remains the greatest love story ever told. Perhaps that is why it is often summed up in three simple words, Jesus loves you. “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

Romans 5:8.

CREATED FOR LOVE, NOT PERFORMANCE Before the world was broken, love already existed. God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit lived in perfect communion.

And out of that overflowing love, humanity was created.

You were created by love, for love. “For you created my innermost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb…

I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” Psalm 139:13–14.

Yet so many of us walk through life feeling inadequate, unworthy, unseen.

Women are burdened by impossible standards. Men are pressured to be strong and emotionally silent. And countless hearts quietly believe the lie, I am not enough.

But God’s love interrupts that lie. “I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness.”

Jeremiah 31:3.

So many of us are tired, not just physically, but spiritually and emotionally. And into that weariness, Jesus speaks: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

WHERE THE LOVE BE-

COMES VISIBLE AGAIN So where is the love? It is found wherever God’s people choose compassion over judgment. It is found in forgiveness that costs something. It is found in quiet acts of service, in listening, presence, empathy and mercy. God pours His love into the world through us. We must first receive His love deeply before it can flow outward.

Love becomes visible again when we lift the fallen instead of condemning them, mourn with those who mourn, forgive quickly, extend grace generously, and build bridges where walls once stood. Sometimes love looks very small, but heaven never calls it insignificant.

WHY LOVE FEELS SO HARD Jesus warned that in the last days, “the love of many will grow cold.” We see it all around us. It has brought me to tears watching how quickly we question what someone did to “deserve” their suffering instead of being moved with compassion. Jesus reduced all commandments to one word: love. “Love the Lord your God… and love your neighbour as yourself.” Matthew 22:37–39. If we claim to love God yet do not love people, Scripture is painfully honest, we lie.

LOVING THE UNLOVABLES Here is where love becomes costly. It is easy to love those who love us back. But Christ calls us to more. To love the misunderstood, the broken, the ones written off as beyond hope. Jesus went to the margins, to sinners and outcasts.

So must we. Be present. Be available. Be the listening ear.

We are not called to save people, only God can do that. But we are called to be vessels of His love. “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” Ezekiel 36:26.

Love in action is listening, valuing, forgiving. This is the way of Christ.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Don’t just ask “Where is the love?” Ask instead: “Where can I be love?” Who around you is hurting quietly? Choose one intentional act of love each day this week and offer it as a prayer in action. Nothing can separate us from the love of God. “Neither death nor life… nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38–39.

Love has not left this world.

God has not abandoned His people. Love still exists. It has a name. Jesus. “And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.” 1 Corinthians 13:13.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Business & Recruitment

19

‘High-performing teams don’t happen by chance’

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

Getting the most out of employees is not a matter of happenstance, but the result of creating the right conditions for people to perform at their best. This was one of the key messages shared at a recent Shannon Chamber workshop focused on high performance in business.

The workshop, held at the Ei Electronics Centre of Excellence, was delivered by Muireann and Hugh Fitzmaurice of ClarityCoach, both of whom are highly experienced in working with leadership teams to improve organisational performance. Attendees also heard a compelling case study from The Shannon Airport Group during a dynamic panel discussion featuring Commercial Director Vanessa McTigue and Compliance and Training Manager Hillary Cleary.

Emphasising that individuals and teams can only truly excel when mindsets, behaviours and connections are aligned, the ClarityCoach presenters urged attendees, many of whom work in human resource and people management roles, to prioritise employee engagement and create environments that support healthy levels of pressure.

Referencing a Gallup 2025 poll, which found that organisations with highly engaged teams outperform others by 21% in profitability, and that 9% of global GDP is lost due to low engagement, the speakers highlighted the significant impact engagement has on productivity, staff retention, innovation and customer experience. They explained that targeting mindset (thinking), behaviour (act-

l At the Shannon Chamber workshop in Ei Electronics’ Centre of Excellence (l-r): Helen

Downes, CEO, Shannon Chamebr; Muireann and Hugh Fitzmaurice, ClarityCoach; Vanessa McTigue, commercial director and Hillary Cleary, compliance and training manager, The Shannon Airport Group Photo by Eamon Ward

ing) and connections (interactions) within teams is key to individual growth and building adaptable, resilient organisations.

“Achieving this level of harmony in an organisation requires clear communication, removing silo thinking, while building trust and the ability to perform under pressure,” they said, before outlining how their interventions are delivering tangible benefits within The Shannon Airport Group.

Vanessa McTigue and Hillary Cleary, who were part of a 36-strong Shannon Airport Group that participated in leadership and communication training over the past two years, spoke positively about the impact the programme has had at both a personal and organisational level.

They outlined benefits including stronger collaboration across departments and generations, improved interpersonal communica-

tion, enhanced resilience and more strategic thinking. “We have taken valuable insights that we’ve applied both personally and professionally,” they said.

“The programme has helped foster intergenerational collaboration, bringing together experienced professionals and new graduates from diverse areas to share challenges, goals and targets. While our roles differ, we all share the same objective, to ensure The Shannon Airport Group delivers value to its stakeholders.

“The one-to-one coaching has been immensely beneficial. It has helped us prioritise time for ourselves, maintain a healthier work-life balance and build greater consistency into our working lives,” they added.

Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes said the workshop demonstrated the significant value of structured performance and leadership development programmes for organisations across the region.

“My key takeaway is that high-performing teams don’t happen by chance,” she said.

“They are shaped by leaders who know how to harness people’s strengths and create clarity in fast-changing environments. Given the positive impact this programme can have on employee performance, we will be encouraging more companies to consider training of this nature, which can be delivered at a subsidised cost through our Skillnet Business Network.”

For further information on this programme, or the range of training options available through Shannon Chamber Skillnet, contact Aisling Ryan, manager, Shannon Chamber Skillnet at aryan@shannonchamber.ie

Gold twice as nice for Clare hotels Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competitions. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels for the areas set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

• Clerical Officer Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 26th February 2026.

• School Warden – Ennistymon Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 19th February 2026.

• Beach Operative - North Clare Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 19th February 2026.

• Beach Operative - Seasonal Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 19th February 2026.

• Graduate Planner (3 Year) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 19th February 2026.

Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section.

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

l The Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis and its sister hotel, Shannon Springs, achieved a Gold Award at the Irish Accommodation Services Institute Conference hosted recently at the Galway Bay Hotel. Pictured are Temple Gate Hotel co-owner Dermot Kelly with Ann O’Sullivan, Accommodation Manager; and Kelly with Shannon Springs Accommodation Manager Oksana Cecotka

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Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Business

Eye Candy Opticians

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

EYE Candy Opticians is celebrating 20 years of caring for the eyes of the people of Clare.

To mark this milestone they’ll be welcoming old and new patients and customers to their newly refurbished practice at 25 Abbey Street next week. Visitors will be invited to enjoy the celebrations and treats, along with planned exclusive stylising events every day of the week.

There’ll be full collections showcased on each day along with the chance to enter raffles for stylish frames, contact lenses, sunglasses and varifocal lenses.

Combining the values of a traditional independent Opticians with a modern, fashion-forward approach, Eye Candy Opticians has built a reputation for offering expert eye care delivered with warmth and attention to detail.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, proprietor Linda Brannigan (Kochhar) reflected on t h e past two

decades of service.

My practice first opened its doors on February the 11th, 2006. “My vision for Eye Candy Opticians was to have an Independent practice here in Ennis where I could spend quality time with patients, offering indepth eye examinations using the best available equipment, and being supported by dedicated and reliable staff,” Linda said.

Eye examinations are more than just about getting new glasses, they are vital for checking the health of the eye and catching a problem before it becomes an issue! Spectacles, she believes also, are about more than vision. “They become part and parcel of a person, reflecting personalities but also very often something worn to complement outfits.

“I take great pride in selecting all the frames that I stock, ensuring that there’s plenty of choice for young, old, various prescriptions, male, female and people of all budgets.

Many frames have been sourced from trade fairs in Paris, Milan and London thus ensuring that customers have access to choice and quality frames and being able to offer a follow-up service for adjustments on these products .”

Eye Candy opticians was also among one of the first Irish practices to invest in OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography) technology, allowing more than a decade of detailed imaging of the retina and as a result, being able to monitor various conditions,” Linda explained.

Continuous education has always been a priority, particularly in emerging areas such as Dry Eye and Myopia management.

“By 2050, it is estimated that half of the world’s population will be short-sighted, this being caused mainly by environmental factors such as increased screen time and less time spent out of doors. Following much research there are now spe-

l BIG CELEBRATIONS:

proprieter Linda (also far left)

l FRIENDLY WELCOME: Eye Candy staff (l-r) Manager Mary Burke, optometrist Sinéad Chambers, porprieter and optometrist Linda Brannigan, Michelle Manning and Kamila Chandler outside the shop front at Eye Candy Opticians on Abbey Street Photos by Tom Micks

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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marks 20th birthday

Eye Candy staff (l-r) Dispensing Optician Eilís Moroney, Debbie Lemon and Kamila Chandler; (inset) tends to a patient in the new dry eye clinic Photos by Tom Micks

cial lenses that can actually slow the progression of myopia in children.”

Originally from Kilkenny, Linda moved to Ennis in 2003 with her husband Jeeves. Here, they fell in love with the vibe of the town after a short stay at the Old Ground Hotel. The 200-year-old Abbey Street building was then purchased and carefully renovated from being a jewellery shop and Tom Meaney’s insurance office to create a modern practice all the while preserving its historic charm.

From an initial team of two staff, Eye Candy Opticians has steadily grown into a thriving business employing eight caring and dynamic staff members with years of optical experience.

Continues on p22

Business

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Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Business

Sweet celebrations as Eye Candy turns Continued from p21 “Everyone works hard and gets on really well together with plenty of banter and laughs but at the end of the day we all are very aware of the patient journey. Each person that presents through our door may have a different concern about their eyes. From the initial greeting, the eye examination, the choosing and dispensing of glasses to the collection and fitting of frames or contact lenses, each member of staff tries to reassure the customer that they are in good hands and well looked after.

SERVICES The practice offers a full range of optometry services including routine eye exams, contact lens fittings, driver licence reports and VDU screening. It includes an on-site glazing laboratory and a dedicated fully equipped Dry Eye suite.The specialist Dry Eye clinic now attracts patients from across the country, as far as Letterkenny to Clonakilty.

“There are patients who present in real pain and discomfort they ’ve tried everything. We’re getting great success with dry eye treatments — and equally, seeing someone put on new glasses and suddenly see properly for the first time. Parents reporting back on the progress of a child in school since wearing new glasses . Offering a good service for all is so important.”

Eye Candy opticians continues to play an active role in the local community . Linda has given many talks on eye health and care, school donations and sports sponsorships, including the Eye Candy Ennis Tennis Open and the Dromoland Golf mixed foursomes.

ETHOS Asked about the ethos behind the business’s success, Linda said listening, doing our best and helping people.

As preparations continue for next week’s celebrations, Linda had a simple message for customers: “Thank you — and come help us celebrate.”

The following schedule will take place next week at Eye Candy Opticians at 25 Abbey Street, Ennis. Why not drop in and congratulate Linda and her team.

Mon afternoon: International eyewear Tues afternoon: Maui Jim Wed afternoon: Entourage of 7 Thurs afternoon: Mulberry collection Fri morning: Silhouette frames.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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on Abbey Street 20 years young

l N-EYES TO MEET YOU: Optometrist and Owner Linda Brannigan (centre) with staff

optometrists Sinéad Chambers (left) and Michelle Manning (right); (inset) Manager and Optical Assistant Mary Burke Photos by Tom Micks

Business

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Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Clare v Antrim - QR/Stats

‘We want to get back to our best’ – Taylor pleased as Clare record successive wins

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

ALLIANZ NATIONAL HURLING DIVISION 1B ROUND 2 Clare 2-30 Antrim 1-18 Venue: Ruairi Óg GAC, Cushendall Compiled by Maghnus Dunne

STORY OF THE GAME CLARE: Frees for: 10 (7/3) Wides: 15 (11/4) Spread of Scorers: 11 Scores from play: 2-22 Top Scorer: Mark Rodgers (0-12 7f) Bookings: Dylan McMahon (18), Peter Duggan (26) Own Puckouts won: 20/27 (74%)

ANTRIM: Frees for: 11 (10/1) Wides: 7 Spread of Scorers: 8 Scores from play: 1-9 Top scorer: Seaan Elliot (0-10 10f) Bookings: Joe Maskey (55) Own Puckouts won: 26/39 (67%)

by Maghnus Dunne news@clareecho.ie

Mark Rodgers excelled for Clare.

Photo by Ruth Griffin

REFEREE: Caymon Flynn (Westmeath)

Flannan’s target run to Croke Park following Harty Cup heartbreak

by Eoin Brennan news@clareecho.ie

FRESH from the disappointment of losing a successive Dr Harty Cup decider, St Flannan’s College are already eyeing up a shot at national glory and a trip to Croke Park.

An Eoghan Doughan inspired Nenagh CBS held off St Flannan’s College in Saturday’s Harty Cup final.

Home comforts were of little consolation to St Flannan’s who despite being level on six different occasions over the hour, contributed just a single score in the last seventeen minutes as they fell to a 0-20 0-18 defeat.

St Flannan’s College manager, Brendan Bugler believed it was their best performance of the competition. “There are really fine margins when it gets to this stage and Nenagh just finished that bit stronger. They’ve really earned it this year and are deserving winners but in

fairness to our lads, they died with their boots on and were terrific from start to finish.

“I thought it was our best performance all year but it was just unfortunate to come up against an exceptionally talented Nenagh side. We gave everything but just came up short in the end and could have even got a lucky bounce right there at the end that might have gone in”.

Having started poorly in different games throughout their run to the final, Bugler said they put an emphasis on not giving Nenagh an early advantage. “We didn’t put together a really good performance from the first minute to the last all year and we had targeted a good start because they [Nenagh] are a team that can kill an opposition early on. They did it to Midleton in the quarter-final and after they played us in

Round 1, they pretty much had won their next two group games before halftime.

“They can punish you as we know only too well after being down eleven points against them in the first round. I mean if we went down eleven points today we definitely wouldn’t have come back and made it a close game like we did that day. So we got a great start but they are a great side and have real quality and Eoghan Doughan’s shooting efficiency was just off the charts. Credit to Conor Hill and Sean McNamara who were on him at different stages. I don’t think they could have done any more on him either. They did their job, it’s just that he’s an exceptional hurler”.

Two-time All Star Bugler is optimistic his side will rally in the AllIreland series and can forge a run to Croke Park.

“Our ambition now is to try

 A devastated Darragh McNamara at the final whistle Photo by Gerard O'Neill

and get this team to Croke Park. And if we do that, it will be a great experience for the players as none of them have played in Croke Park before I think.

It’s going to be difficult but they are an ambitious group.

“They played well today, it’s not as if they didn’t show up properly for the

Nenagh CBS vs St Flannan’s College

final. It would take a lot to regroup if they hadn’t performed. They played really well so I’m not sure who we’re playing or when it’s on but we’re rally the troop as best we can and hopefully go on a nice run in the All-Ireland series,” he told The Clare Echo.

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

TUS DR. HARTY CUP FINAL

CLARE are focused on getting back to their best, midfielder Ryan Taylor said following their successive victory in Division 1B of the Allianz National Hurling League.

A fourteen point win over Antrim saw Clare follow up their first round victory against Dublin to put themselves in a strong position of sealing a return to the top tier of the league.

Speaking to The Clare Echo in Antrim, midfielder Ryan Taylor was very pleased with the result plus the performance from himself and his team mates. “We knew it was going to be a big challenge having to come all the way up here (Cushendall) today. You know we came up here four or five years back and we were beaten that day so you know I’ve been in Antrim and know what it’s like to lose, so we really were under no illusion that it was not going to be an easy day out”.

Taylor put on a strong showing on the North Coast on Sunday afternoon, but believes that Clare knew it would require a physical tussle on the afternoon. “You know Antrim are a very tough bunch and they always give you a physical game that has to be said. We did though put in a strong performance, I think the score line reflects that, but there is probably still a lot that we will look back on and realise we need to work on it but, yeah, we are happy because it’s another victory and another step in the right direction.

Fifteen wides was jumping out as an area for Clare to work on, he felt. “Absolutely, it’s something we were not happy with today. You know, it’s not like we can even blame the conditions or anything as it’s as good a day you’ll get in January, but yeah for sure we know we have a lot to work on. Eleven wides in a half of hurling, it’s not something we’ll take lightly, we will regroup and in training sharpen up”.

Overall, there’s plenty to be optimistic about on the Clare hurling front, the Clooney/Quin man believed. The focus now switches to welcoming Down to Ennis on Sunday. “I think overall, it’s a game where we will take some great positives from. Now next Sunday we have Down, that’s where we will take our focus too and hopefully, we can continue to kick on now, and improve as we look to go from strength to strength and get back to our best”.

St. Joseph’s CBS Nenagh 0-20 St. Flannan’s College 0-18 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chiosóg, Ennis Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME ST. JOSEPH’S CBS NENAGH Frees For: 13 (6/7) Wides: 9 (3/6) Scores from Play: 0-12 Spread of Scorers: 6 Top Scorer: Eoghan Doughan (0-12 8f) Yellow Cards: Emmett Jones (14), Dara O’Dwyer (46) Own Puck-Outs won: 15 from 25 (60%)

ST. FLANNAN’S COLLEGE Frees For: 9 (4/5) Wides: 7 (5/2) Scores from Play: 0-12 Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Harry Doherty (0-8 5f 1’65) Yellow Cards: None Own Puck-Outs won: 15 from 28 (54%)

REFEREE: Thomas Walsh (Waterford)

 Clare midfielder  St Flannan’s College

Ryan Taylor Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Photo Gerard O’Neill

25

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Sport

‘Our mistakes sucked the life out of us’ Madden laments poor showing

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

EFFORTS to make Cusack Park a fortress for Clare’s footballers under Paul Madden become undone with a five point loss to Westmeath in a performance riddled with ‘poor decision making and poor turnovers’.

Successive defeats in Division 3 of the Allianz National Football League has piled the pressure on Clare’s footballers who still have a chance of securing promotion but now have to focus on avoiding relegation to the bottom tier as they sit with zero points from two outings.

Trailing by nine points at the beginning of the second half, Clare managed to reduce the deficit to two points with fifty two minutes played only to concede 1-3 without reply before falling to a five point loss for the second weekend running. “Any day you lose is frustrating but particularly to lose a game at home is very frustrating,” surmised Madden following the game.

Turnovers soft ones from Clare gifted Westmeath too many scores, he felt. “Overall

 Clare manager, Paul Madden

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

we were poor, we didn’t play anything like we can, mainly a lot of the issue came from our decision making and poor turnovers, in the mod-

ern game as I’ve highlighted as recently as last week, if you turn over the ball you are in big trouble and that is what happened for the majority of

their scores, particularly in the first half ”.

Mistakes were compounded for Clare through their inability to respond to them, the Ennis man stated. “We were really up for the game, we trained well all week, I thought the focus was good and we started ok for the first ten or twelve minutes against a little breeze but we did quite well but when we started to make mistakes it sucked the life out of us almost, lads got frustrated and disappointed, our energy levels dropped when we made mistakes as opposed to responding to the mistakes”.

Ronan Wallace’s goal in additional time of the first half, the last score before the break “was a killer,” he lamented.

“We were five points down and we deserved to be based on the turnovers, the goal put it to eight but in the modern game an eight point gap isn’t a huge amount, we were five up last weekend at half time and lost by five, a ten point swing is common enough in this new game, we conceded the first score of the half and went nine down but we got back to two points and then we did a few stupid things

Clare vs Westmeath ALLIANZ NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 3 ROUND 2 Westmeath 2-19 Clare 1-17 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chiosóg, Ennis Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME WESTMEATH: Frees for: 8 (4/4) Wides: 4 (3/1) Spread of scorers: 9 Scores from play: 2-18 Top scorer: Ronan Wallace (12) & Sam McCartan (0-5 2TP) Bookings: Dan McCartan (10), Ray Connellan (51).

Own kickouts won: 14 from 26 (54%)

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

 Clare’s top scorer Aaron Griffin drives forward Photo by Gerard O’Neill

REFEREE: David Murnane (Cork)

WESTMEATH: Frees for: 8 (4/4) Wides: 4 (3/1) Spread of scorers: 9 Scores from play: 2-18 Top scorer: Ronan Wallace (12) & Sam McCartan (0-5 2TP) Bookings: Dan McCartan (10), Ray Connellan (51).

Own kickouts won: 14 from 26 (54%)5f 1’65) Yellow Cards: None Own Puck-Outs won: 15 from 28 (54%)

with the ball, we had the ball and were winning possession around the middle.

“We did very well on their kickouts again today, we were over sixty percent on their kickouts for the game which is really good but we carried ball into contact and didn’t have enough support runners off the shoulder to help lads and got tackled by their men. There is a lot to look at but at the end of the day, I’m the manager and I’m responsible for the results, I said to the players they have to keep their heads up and if there is any flak I’ll take it”.

Round one saw Clare unlucky to lose to Down but there was no complaints with the outcome on Sunday where their performance was a level below what they displayed in Newry. “It is more disappointing in the context we were playing at home, we knew before we played Down that this was going to be a massive game and we wanted to make this a fortress so in that context but again we lost by five so it is frustrating”.

Hindering Clare from building a home fortress was the

lack of support for what was Madden’s first home league fixture as manager. Cusack Park had an attendance of just 1,389 for the fixture. “We can’t control the crowd but the crowd that were here we have to give them something to cheer for and at the end of the day in patches we did and they got behind us but we seem to concede a score very easily after getting a score which is frustrating”.

Injury ruled wing back Fionn Kelleher out of the fixture, the Doora/Barefield defender is understood to have sustained the knock in training and the subsequent decision to deploy Dermot Coughlan from attack to defence greatly upset Clare’s structure but Madden disagreed. “Obviously we’d like to have everyone but that is the nature of the game, we have to rejig, I wouldn’t say it upset things, he did very well and he wasn’t able to play this week, that is just the nature of it and we had enough guys on the pitch and the bench to come on and win that game but we didn’t perform at the level we wanted to”.

Six clubs to compete for O’Gorman Cup

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

SIX clubs will compete for the 2026 O’Gorman Cup. Organised by Doonbeg GAA, the football tournament is now in its twenty first season and commemorates the late John O’Gorman who served in a variety of officer roles with Doonbeg and with Clare GAA. Doonbeg, Ennistymon, Kildysart, Parteen/Meelick, Shannon Gaels and St Joseph’s Miltown are the teams competing this season. St Joseph’s Miltown are the reigning champions, they defeated Wolfe Tones 3-21 1-5 in the 2025 decider.

First round games are scheduled for Saturday week (February 14th). At the end of the five game round robin schedule, the top two teams will go through to contest the final.

Games are scheduled for February 14th, February 21st, March 28th, April 25th and May 16th.

The first round fixtures which will be played on Saturday week, February 14, and the pairings are (fist named team has home advantage unless otherwise stated St Joseph’s Miltown v Ennistymon Shannon Gaels v Doonbeg (at Kilrush) Kildysart v Parteen/Meelick Throw in times and referees will be announced next week.

26

Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

‘Sad day for Clare soccer’ as Lifford AFC’s adult side folds for remainder of season

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S oldest soccer club, Lifford AFC has withdrawn from the Clare District Soccer League (CDSL)’s Premier Division.

Currently sitting second from bottom in the Premier Division, Lifford have confirmed they are unable to fulfil the remainder of their fixtures this season but club officers are adamant they will be fielding an adult side next season.

A fortnight ago, the Ennis side suffered a 5-0 defeat to Newmarket Celtic where they lined out with just eleven players, their manager Nathan Phelan was among those to take to the field. They were scheduled to face Tulla Utd on Sunday but this fixture did not take place.

In a statement, the CDSL confirmed they were “regrettably informed” by Lifford “that they will no longer be able to fulfil games in the Maloney Hardware Premier Division this season due to injuries and a lack of player availability”.

Rule 47 (D) of the CDSL’s constitution states, “Should a club or team fail to complete its fixtures, three points shall be awarded to the disappointed teams for each of the unplayed matches, except when a team has played less than half its scheduled matches then it’s record shall be deleted completely”.

As Lifford have completed over half of their fixtures in the Premier Division, their record will stand but their remaining ties will result in 3-0 victories for their opponents.

During the January transfer window, the club lost a total of five players. Avenue Utd snapped up their captain Chuks Obadeyi with Aidan Jordan joining Hermitage, Lucas Silva signed for Newmarket Celtic while both Christian da Silva Cunha and Jorge Becker moved to Brazilian side Brazuca United who line out in the fifth tier of the Limerick District League.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, long-standing Lifford AFC club officer Aiden O’Neill outlined, “the club is fine but we can’t carry on for the remainder of the adult sea-

l Lifford’s Bradley Higgins and Hocine Bensadok chase Newmarket Celtic’s

Aaron Rudd

son. We had a very tight panel and we’ve picked up a couple of serious injuries, it became a player welfare thing, we couldn’t expect lads to turn out with only eight or nine players at a time and see out the season. We ran low on numbers, we had three problematic injuries and two defections, having initially had a panel of seventeen or eighteen. In junior football, you rarely go out with the same eleven every week and we couldn’t expect the same lads to keep going with the wear and tear of playing every week”.

Having been such a dominant force of Clare soccer in the 1970s winning the Clare Cup in 1974 and 1975 along with double success in 1976, the club as recently as 2023 reached the Clare Cup final, the folding of the adult side for the remainder of the season is undoubtedly a dark hour for the sport in both the town and county.

“It is a sad day for the town, Lifford is 65 years old this year but what has happened is symptompatic of a number of things. We have an increased amount of teams in the town with Ennis Dons and Fair Green Celtic forming in recent years. We’ve seen Inch Crusaders at the beginning of this season and

Bridge book place in Munster Junior Cup quarter-finals

Photo by Joe Buckley

Kilkishen Celtic the year before folding having been in the Premier Division. We’re sad about it, we had a player, management and a committee meeting on Friday evening, there was a core group there and we’re positive about September but we are caught in a scenario which we never got into before,” Aidan stated.

Despite their current predicament, Lifford had been competitive at stages of the current campaign, they dropped points early on including a costly 2-2 draw with Shannon Town at the beginning of December and narrowly losing to Avenue in November. “Over our last three games, we played Newmarket and lost 5-0 but it was 0-0 at half-time, they got an early goal in the second half, we missed a penalty and had another goal disallowed but we ran out stream only having eleven players. Before that, Bridge Utd outclassed us 4-0. It took a last minute goal for Avenue to beat us.

The guys didn’t down tools, it was just there wasn’t enough of them in it, it’s not as if we threw in the towel, it just became a numbers thing.

The club had to look out for player welfare, 22.9 is the average age of our team so they are either very old

kids or very young men, it is unfair on them to play with only eight or nine compatriots every week, we wouldn’t look to put them in that position”.

O’Neill said Lifford AFC will be re-entering an adult team in the CDSL next season, “Lifford will be back I can assure you,” he maintained. “We won’t fool ourselves and think we’ll be allowed straight back into the Premier Division because if we were looking at this situation from the view of another club we’d have a degree of ire about that. We’d hope we wouldn’t be put into the Third Division because we feel we’d be too strong, we’re not too good for it but we’d be worthy of a place in the First Division and the league table doesn’t lie, we were struggling and we could have ended up in the First Division anyway”.

Manager Phelan will stay on and O’Neill said the club has already recruited a “high profile” assistant coach but kept tight-lipped on their identity. “We’re still an attractive prospect, our manager Nathan Phelan has already recruited an assistant coach, he is high profile and he will attract players to the club.

We’ve a core group of eight to build off but we need eighteen to be any bit fruitful. I’ve no doubt we will have that but we will be a bit more robust in the way we recruit in so far as the calibre of player we’re looking for and the commitment of the player we are looking for. We refused players this year because there was a question over their commitment, on reflection, is that a mistake, no I don’t believe so because you can carry on as you were and not be going anywhere, Lifford always sees itself as a progressive club, we were the first club in the county to own their ground and as of this year we have it in full ownership, we are only one of nine clubs in the county to own our grounds and we are the first in the town of Ennis to own our grounds”.

Throughout its history, Lifford has been accustomed to setbacks, Aiden outlined. “The academy is providing a lot of our base, I’d make this comparison, your academy and

senior men’s team is like the foundation and the roof of the house, if one if is not functioning the other will feel an effect but our foundation is very strong with the academy, we’ve over fifty kids and ten coaches which is one of the most envious coaches to player ratios so the academy is flying it and we’re very happy with that, we know the academy is well taken of. There’s always bumps and hollows, we regenerated when Ennis Town broke away and the same with Avenue Utd which was a breakaway club (founded in 1983), we’ve seen the same thing when members were involved in setting up Fair Green, we’re used to adversarial conditions and we’ve always bounced back, I’ve no doubt this will be no different and that is not me speaking for a PR stunt”.

Founded in 1961 before the formation of the CDSL, Lifford’s birth grew out from Ennis United who had lined out in the Limerick District League. The club’s founding members included Michael O’Gorman, Frank McInerney, Jimmy Coughlan, Noel Bane and Declan and Freddy Ensko. Both O’Gorman and McInerney were also centrally involved in setting up the CDSL. Lifford joined the inaugural Clare League and played their first game on Sunday October 14, 1962 against Gardimex wearing their new red strip, which was purchased for the sum of £13 from Mick Coleman’s shop in O’Connell Street. Lifford won its first title in 1963 when Syl Cosgrove captained them to win the Fergus Cup. In 1968, the club played under the name Rockmount due to a dispute with the CDSL. In 1984, Lifford established a schoolboys section with a ladies team created in 1988. Lifford produced a number of schoolboy internationals including Gary Flynn and Alan Brooks. The Ladies team too provided a conveyor belt of talent to Irish teams. Lifford ladies also enjoyed a spectacular period of success from the early nineties onwards, winning numerous county and national titles.

No big casualties in first round of Clare Cup Kevin Harnett is shown a yellow card following a challenge on Peter Power.

Photo by Joe Buckley

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Liam Buckley gets his head to the ball Photo by Joe Buckley

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

27

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

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Sport

2026 officers drive in at East Clare Golf Club

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

The Captains’ ‘Drive In’ took place at East Clare golf club on Bank Holiday Monday.

The captains for 2026 are Mary Farrell and T.J. McNamara with Marie Donnellan and Ray McInerney as vice captains.

The club president is Alan O’Neill.

A 9 hole scramble was held in conjunction with the drive in and the winners over the front 9 were Tony Cleary, Pierce O’Shiel and Trish Nash from Ray McInerney, James McNamara and Marie Donnellan. Third place was filled by Mary Hogan, John Nihill and Martin Breen and they were followed by Shane McInerney, Padraig Ryan and Breda Reid.

Winners over the back 9 were, Rachel Whelan, John Doyle and Michael Noonan from Maureen Clune, Ger P. O’Brien and Paul Hayes. In third place were Enda Donnellan, Fiacra Dobson and Noreen Doyle followed by Stephen B. Moloney, Ailbe McDonnell and Breda McCarthy.

Meanwhile Friday’s mixed scramble was won

by Terry Coughlan, Mary Hogan and Willie Roche from Mike Heffernan, Jim Lynch and Connie McKenna with third place filled

by Dave Condren,Mary Farrell and Stephen H. Moloney.

Last week’s men’s singles stableford competition was won by Michael Noonan (22) with 40 points and he won on a countback from Martin Breen (9).

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The men’s foursomes competition at Ennis last week was won by Flan Downes and Barry Lee with 40 points. Second place was filled by Raymond Power and Tommy Stack with 35 points followed by Damon Murphy and Vincent Neylon, also with 35 points.

Last week’s ladies 13 hole singles stableford competition was won by Maureen Lynch (32) with 27 points from Mary T. McMahon (13) with 26 points with third place filled by Peggy Costello (22) with 23 points.

The winner of the ladies 8 hole stableford

competition was Geraldine O’Rourke (15) with 17 points from Phil Butler (15) with a similar score. In third place with 15 points was Peggy Costello (11).

Sixty two played in the senior men’s scramble last week when the winners were Senan Ryan, Liam Barry, Mike Irwin and Pat Garry with 72 points.

They had one to spare over Noel Connellan, Terry Hughes, John Gavin and Matt Flynn.

In third place with 68 points were Tommy Heath, Frank Cullinan, Willie Donnellan and Conor Murphy followed by Noel Pyne, Damon Murphy, Fintan McEvoy and Joe O’ Brien with 67 points.

Fifth place was filled

by James Corcoran, Tony McInerney, Seamus Hanrahan and Dominick Murray with 65 points followed by Ger O’ Brien, Declan Hanley, Padraic Larkin and Eamonn Corry with 64, Cyril Lyons, Paul Kenny, Peter Quinn, Tony Kehoe with 64, Michael Moroney, John C McNamara, Ronnie Guinnane and Dave Barry also with 64.

SPANISH POINT GOLF

CLUB: Last week’s ladies weekly 13 hole stableford competition at Spanish Point was won by Aine Burke with 32 points and she had one to spare over Sara Hogan. Third place was filled by Eileen Murrihy with 28 points with Yvonne O’Keeffe next with 26 points.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Round 1 in the Ozone Health & Fitness Spring League took place at Woodstock at the weekend when excellent scoring was the order of the day. Thirty three teams played in round 1.

The winners with 54 points were Joe and Pat Barry. They had one to spare over Aidan and Noel Mulcahy. In third place, also with 53 points, were Sean Williams and Sean Howard followed by Brian Kilker and Eugene Conroy who also returned 53 points.

In fifth place with 52 points were Colin Higgins and Pat O’Brien followed

by Barry McNamara and Paudi O’Connell with a similar score. They were followed by Noel Casey

and Michael Lynch with 51 points, Barry Scanlan and Joe Colleran with 50 points, Michael Guerin and David Quinn with 50 points with tenth position filled by Paul and Tony Coote also with 50 points.

Round 2 takes pace this weekend when the format will be a modified 2 step.

The club singles in which 64 played was won

by Ollie McNamara (11) with 37 points while the gross was won by Brendan Neylon (6) with 30 points.

Category 1 (+ to 10) was won by John Dreelan (8) with 34 points with Darren Russell (5) in second place with 33 points.

Category 2 (11 to 18) was won by Lorcan Clancy (11) with 34 points from Joseph Burke (12) with 32 points.

Winners in the 2s competition were Cathal Nagle (4th hole), Robbie Dormer (14th), John Mulcahy (4th & 11th) and Paudi O’Connell (6th & 11th).

There will be another club singles this weekend.

This week’s seniors competition at Woodstock

was won by Sean Williams, Gerry Griffey and Luke Duffy with 68 points.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The men’s 12 hole singles at Kilrush last week was won by Mark Cottam (10) with 27 points and he was one ahead of Paul Keane (23) while third place was filled by Derek Garvey (7) who also had 26 points.

Jim Young Jnr won the gross KILDYSART GOLF SOCIETY: The Kildysart golf society will begin its 20th season on March 22 with an outing to Adare golf club.

Eight outings for the season have been confirmed as follows; Adare (March 22), Cregmore (April 19), Esker Hills (May 17), Portumna (June 28), Kilrush (July, date TBC), Woodstock (August 23), NewcastleWest (September 19) and Ennis (October 18).

Anyone wishing to join the society can contact 085-8711908 for details.

GORT GOLF CLUB: The captains and president’s ‘drive-in’ took place at Gort on Sunday last,

February 1. President for 2026 is Rose Finnegan while the captains are Ray Dolan and Patricia Lyons.

A 9 hole scramble was held in conjunction with the drive-in. The winners of the competition over the front 9 were PJ McAllen, Maura Hanrahan, Pat Fogarty and Marion M Fahy with second place filled by Padraig Burke, Sinead Collins, Tom Helebert and Tracey Brennan.

In third place were Eamon Higgins, Richie Glynn and Ger Tarpey.

The competition played on the back 9 was won

by Paul Brennan, Shane Mahon, John G Ryan and Fran O’Reilly from Joe Moran, Roisin Walsh, Teresa Kavanagh and Sean Crowe with third place filled by Hannah McInerney, Gerry Lally, John O’Connor and Joe Kelly.

The weekend 18 hole open singles attracted a big attendance. Category 1 was won by Paul Smith (9) with 40 points, category 2 by Ray Dolan (15) with a similar score, category 3 by Pat Curtis (16) with 47 points and category 4

by Declan Donohoe (26) with 39 points.

Liscannor owned Aran View wins €15k Stake

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

LISCANNOR owned Aran View was among the winners in the National Coursing Meeting this week.

It is the dream of many greyhound owners to have a runner at the National Coursing Meeting in Clonmel.

The dream became a reality on Bank Holiday Monday in the Hotel Minella Grace and Matt Bruton All Age Bitch Stake Final for the Liscannor owned Aran View.

Owned by Liscannor’s Donal Malone, Aran View is trained in Abbeydorney by Dan Brassil, she was priced at 10/1 for outright honours and was bred in Kinvara by John McDonagh. Aran View had all the answers on the hill to run out as the winner in the €15,000 stake.

Run For Rum was an impressive winner in race eight at the Limerick Track recently owned by the Room For One More Syndicate which comprises of members from Quin, Newmarket-on-Fergus and Sixmilebridge and trained by Stephen Murray in Sixmilebridge, Syndicate members turned out in big numbers to see their charge win by three and half lengths in a time of 29.12.

Saturday evening last at Limerick Greyhound Stadium, produced three Clare owned dogs that entered the winner’s enclosure, Asiam Grange, a son of Grangeview Ten and Burnpark Willow notched his second career win

Trainer Dan Brassil, owner Donal Malone and the Malone family with Aran View

for Ross Kenny from Ennis in 29.53.

Bells Greet recorded her seventh career win for Ciara Malone from Liscannor in 29.26, she is a daughter of Fast Fit Paddy and Kinielty Phantom.

Myles Cummins and Breda Casey from Newmarket-on-Fergus took the honours in an A3 contest with Snuggie Benny, in 29.08, this was this son of Ballymac Cashout and Slaneyside Goldie’s twelfth career success, and they also enjoyed a quickfire double at Thursday’s meeting with Snuugie Archie and I’m Back Baby Archie.

Other recent Clare owned winners include litter comrades Redbud and Aqua Magnolia for Tulla’s Michael and Donnacha McNamara, bred by Dromana Bucko and Rockalong Aqua.

Redbud recorded his sixth career win in 29.31 and it was career win number five for Aqua Magnolia in a time off 29.58.

The opening contest on last Friday night’s Galway Card was an A7 graded 525 yards contest in which Dennys Best led early in the centre of the track but as the field tightened

up as they rounded the opening bend the striped jacketed Lissatouk Storm navigated his way round his rivals to lead entering the back straight. Racing along the back straight Lissatouk Storm led by three lengths from Kiltartan Chosen with Knoppogue Bella in third place. Exiting the back, the Seamus McMahon of Cooraclare owned son of Ballymac Cashout and Lissatouk Dolly looked home and hosed but he was all out close home to see off the thrust of Knoppogue Bella by a head in 30.28.

As the traps rose for the feature On The Latt on the wide outside was just about best away as Laois Lightening showed pace towards the inner ahead of Drombeg Milo. Rounding the opening bend Laois Lightening railed well but racing towards halfway On The Latt was still within half a length of the leader on the outside with Drombeg Milo two lengths adrift in third place. Exiting the back straight little separated the leading pair as Laois Lightening still held the call but on straightening for home the teak tough Gerry O’Donoghue of Gort owned On The Latt (Broadstrand Bono & Brickhill Sharon) knuckled down to the task as he wore down Laois Lightening to record his thirteenth career success by three parts of a length in 29.22.

The chief supporting contest was the A3 graded eighth contest and in the early strides Burnpark Cashout

and Portumna Syd were both prominent with the Maria Browne of Cree owned Burnark Cashout leading the way rounding the opening bend as Hanover Lina moved second along the inside rails entering the back straight. Racing down the back Burnpark Cashout led by a length as Hanover Luna and Portumna Syd were joined by That’s My Honey in the chase. Rounding the home bend Burnpark Cashout looked in command but the son of Ballymac Cashout and Burnpark Blossom was running on fumes close home as That’s My Honey closed to within a head in 29.32.

The owner went on to complete a double on the night in the A4 graded finale over 550 yards as the prominent throughout Burnpark Class registered her fourth career success by two and a half lengths over Creevy Chief in 30.77. On the long run toward the opening bend Fantasy Penny, Burnpark Class and Lakeside Albert were all prominent with the winner just holding. Narrow advantage as they negotiated the opening bend.

Tracking well Burnpark Class took two lengths out of her rivals and as they passed the halfway mark the lead was in excess of three lengths.

Exiting the back straight the daughter of Grangeview Ten and Burnpark Willow was in control as she galloped in strongly all the way to the line.

28

Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Classifieds

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOGHLEA, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO CLARE Take notice that Ciara Rowe & Jordan O’Donnell intend to apply for Planning Permission to construct a new dwelling house, detached garage and on-site waste water treatment system including all ancillary services and works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority, in writing, on payment of a fee of €20.00 within five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the Planning Application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ISLANDCOSGRY, OGONNELLOE, CO. CLARE Please take note that Clare O’Driscoll intends to apply to Clare County Council for planning permission for the construction of a new dwelling house, the construction of a garage, wastewater treatment

system + percolation area, upgrading of an existing agriculture entrance to a dwelling entrance and all associated site works at Islandcosgry, Ogonnelloe, Co. Clare.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, ARMADA HOUSE, LEAGARD SOUTH, SPANISH POINT, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Armada Hotel Holdings Ltd. intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission for development at Armada House, Leagard South, Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare which is a protected structure (RPS No. 025). The works involve installing an external fire escape stairs in the internal courtyard, replacing two existing windows with two doors to allow for access onto the external stairs, a roller shutter

EASY TO USE SERVICE

over an existing window in the courtyard and to move the boiler house door to the side elevation along with associated site works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL I, Mark Cahill, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning permission for (a) the conversion and renovation of an existing structure, most recently used as a public health centre, for use as a dwelling (b)The addition of a first floor to the existing structure including increasing the eaves and ridge height (c)elevational changes to the existing structure, (d)the construction of a single storey extension to the side and rear of the existing structure and all ancillary site works at Kilvoydan, Corofin,

Co.Clare.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL Marie & Nigel Roberts intend to apply for permission for development at Craglea, Killaloe, Co.Clare, V94T6RH. The development will consist of single storey rear and side extensions and new rooflights, alterations to the existing house, incorporating change of use of the existing garage (part of house) to dwelling use and the construction of a new detached garage together with associated site works and services.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority

in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONNAGARNAUN, MULLAGH Take notice that C. O’Keeffe intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect garage and store area at the above address.

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

PLACE YOUR PLANNING NOTICES WITH THE CLARE ECHO CALL 065 671 9021 EMAIL KIERAN@CLAREECHO.IE

Thursday, Feb 5, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Puzzle

PUZZLE

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES Feb 5th THIS WEEKS PUZZLES JULY 7th

WORD SEARCH

39

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HOW TO PLAY

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

Backup

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Daily Quick Crossword: 30 June 2022 ,6/30/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

Visit clareecho.ie/subscribe to find out more

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Daily Quick Crossword: 30 June 2022 ,6/30/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

31

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 5, 2026

Support journalism in Clare by subscribing to www.clareecho.ie/subscribe

Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz Tulla GAA club is the oldest club in Clare. What year was it founded?

1886 1884 1885

2.

How far is Tulla from Ennis?

20km 18km 15km

3.

What colours do Tulla GAA play in?

Crimson and yellow Yellow and black Green and red

4.

What is the Tulla soccer club called?

Tulla Rangers Tulla United Tulla Rovers

5.

In what year was the Tulla Céilí Band formed?

1936 1946 1956

6.

What is the name of the GAA pitch in Tulla?

Cusack Park The Cricket Field Páirc An Dálaigh

7.

What is the name of the secondary school in Tulla?

St. Senan’s St. Flannan’s St. Joseph’s

8.

Which of these Clare hurlers plays for Tulla?

David Fitzgerald Peter Duggan David McInerney

9.

What is the population of Tulla as per the 2022 census?

778 697 688

10. Who is the patron saint of Tulla?

St Mochulla St Patrick St Brigid

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS Páirc An Dálaigh St Joseph’s David McInerney 697 St Mochulla

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

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Movies to see this week

1885 18km Crimson and yellow Tulla United 1946

1.

36 Parnell St Ennis, Co. Clare ennis.arccinema.ie

Last weeks Answers . Stamp missing on certificate . Tie different colour . Button missin on shirt cuff . Light missing in the background

. Persons top in background different colour . Pocket missing on jacket . Shirt different colour

Clare’s first outing in Cusack Park under Paul Madden has resulted in the county’s first league defeat at the venue since March 2023 Photo by Gerard O’Neill

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