The Clare Echo 12/06/25

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Jun 31, 12, 2024 2025 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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Jun 12 2025

Cllrs claim €106k in LE24 campaign

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S 28 councillors submitted a combined expenses claim of €106,352 following last year’s local election with a former Mayor of Clare seeking to be reimbursed for purchasing an e-bike.

One year on from the 2024 local elections, The Clare Echo has analysed the self-declarations from candidates on their expenditure and donations

received in the sixty days prior to polling day.

First elected in 1991, Cllr Michael Begley (IND) is the county’s longest-serving councillor and he has claimed for acquiring an e-bike in Limerick City to the tune of €1,750.

“Rural canvassing is very awkward when driving, I found it extremely helpful and advantageous when canvassing rural areas,” he told The Clare Echo. “I still use it, it isn’t something

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Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) had the highest bill of all councillors at €8243.60 followed by Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) €8049.90, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) €6983.39, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) €6780.00 and Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) €6312.90.

In depth report p14-17

 Doonbeg’s John Gallagher is surrounded by his children Maria Murphy and Michael Gallagher as he celebrates his 100th birthday.

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Local Election Expenses 2024

Special Olympics Golf Munster Finals

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Ennis Golf Club recently hosted the Special Olympics Golf Munster Finals where athletes representing Munster participated in the competitions.

Ennis Special Olympics Golf Club was established in 2005, following heightened awareness of Special Olympics after the World Games were staged in Dublin in 2003. Club Captain Jackie Morris, with assistance from Vincent Gardner and Kathleen Kearse, initiated the Special Olympics program at EGC. The club has generously accommodated Special Olympics by allocating tee time each Monday morning,

a practice that continues to this day. The club operates from March to May and from September to November. Membership has grown steadily over the years, with EGC currently supporting 22 athletes. The club has achieved remarkable success, with several players earning Munster and All Ireland medals. Most notably, Mairead Moroney and her partner Jean Molony won a silver medal at the World Games in Abu Dhabi in 2019, while Paul Kirrane and his partner Pat Rutherford secured a bronze medal in Los Angeles in 2015.

The club depends on the generosity of volunteers and EGC members who mentor and

play alongside the athletes. Competitions are held at provincial and national levels every two years, and this year Ennis Golf Club had the honor of hosting the Munster finals on Monday, 19th May. Pictured are Lisa Sprice, Ruth Doyle, Sarah Banville and Mick Ford (Special Olympics, Munster) with EGC President Mr. Kieran O’Louglin and Mrs. Kitty Morris (Special Olympics, EGC

Seaside Lahinch property sells for over €1m

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A LAHINCH property has sold for over €1m at an online auction.

‘Thalassa’ located at Seapark in Lahinch received global interest ahead of its online auction this Friday.

The four-bedroom property which went on the market for €650,000 sold for €1,005,000.00.

There was a total of 99 bids made on the property during the auction before the virtual hammer dropped for just over €1m. Six different individuals were bidding for the Lahinch seaside home.

Initially fourteen people had registered their interest in acquiring the home in North-West Clare but six bidders were in the final hunt for the property with a forty four people watching the auction online.

Persons registered were from Co Clare while there was national and international interest in the auction. Estate agents DNG O’Sullivan Hurley confirmed to The Clare Echo

they received expressions of the interest from people in three different continents around the world.

Situated on an elevated site with uninterrupted panoramic views overlooking Lahinch Beach, ‘Thalassa’ is a four bedroom detached home in one of the most sought after locations along the west coast of Ireland.

The property was marketed as “an ideal family or holiday home with stunning views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Douglas Hurley of

DNG O’Sullivan Hurley explained, “to get a property with a view of the beach in Lahinch is rare. It is four to five houses up on that hill and it is the best site in terms of uniqueness with a view of the sea, the beach and the town. There’s a scarcity of chances to build in Lahinch so there is always demand when a property goes on the market. The sale price is endemic of the market where money is available for the right property and this is one of those unique properties, it is a generational property”.

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18 year old posted collage of images of 15 year old girl on Snapchat in Coco’s Law case

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A CLARE teenager, just turned 18, posted a collage of intimate images of a 15 year old girl onto his Snapchat stories in a so-called Coco’s Law prosecution, a court has heard.

In the case before Kilrush District Court on Tuesday, the accused - now aged 20 appeared in connection with being charged with three alleged offences over the posting of the intimate images in November 2022.

Judge Alec Gabbett said that the case comes under Coco’s Law, which is formally known as the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2020 which criminalises the non-consensual distribution of intimate images.

In the case, the accused, aged 18 at the time, is charged with on November 15th 2022 publishing or distributing an intimate image of the female without her consent with the intention to cause her harm contrary to Section 2(1) and (3) of the Harassment, Harmful Communications and Related Offences Act 2001.

As the female teenager was a minor at the time of the alleged offence, the man is also facing two charges under the Child Trafficking and Pornography Act on November 15th 2022.

The man is accused of knowingly having in his possession child pornography, the image of the female aged under 17 which, the charge says, depicts her genitals on the date.

The man - accompanied to court by his mother and a sister - is also charged with producing child pornography for the purpose of distribution, publication, exportation, sale or show contrary to Section 5(1) of the Child Trafficking Act and Pornography Act1998.

In court, Garda Nadine Keane, now of Roxboro Garda Station, Limerick said it will be alleged that the accused had in his possession a collage of four intimate images of the female on No-

vember 15th 2022 and posted them to his online Snapchat stories on the same date.

Garda Keane said that one of the images depicting the girl’s genitalia was a Category Two image as categorised under the Child Trafficking Act and Pornography Act. Judge Gabbett said that Category One would be regarded as the most serious followed by Category Two. Garda Keane said that the images were left online for a number of hours before they were taken down by the man who allegedly posted them.

Garda Keane said that the female - who turned 18 earlier this year - made a statement of complaint to Gardai and was interviewed by specialist Garda interviewers.

Garda Keane said that the case was investigated by the Clare Division Protective Services Unit based at Crusheen. Garda Keane said that when charged at Kilrush Garda Station on May 29th, the accused made no reply

after caution.

Garda Keane said that the DPP has directed that the case be heard in the district court on a plea of guilty only.

After hearing an outline of the facts, Judge Gabbett said that he was declining district court jurisdiction and the case will now be transferred to the circuit court where more serious penalties apply on conviction.

Judge Gabbett said that he was declining jurisdiction due to the seriousness of the alleged offences, the categorisation of the images and that the case warrants consideration by the circuit court taking into account the impact on the alleged injured party.

Judge Gabbett said that if the accused was aged under 18 at the time, he would have kept the case in the district court.

In the district court, penalties for the Coco’s Law offence can be up to one year on prison on conviction and

Sgt John Burke said that before the circuit court, a 14 year prison term can apply on conviction.

Judge Gabbett remanded the man on continuing bail to appear at Kilrush District Court to July 15th. Judge Gabbett imposed reporting restrictions on the identity of the accused and the injured party due to the age of the injured party at the time of the alleged offences.

COCO’S LAW: 18 year old posted collage of images of 15 year old girl on Snapchat

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Pilgrims of Hope: thousands to attend Limerick Novena amid global uncertainty PREPARATIONS are well under way for this year’s solemn novena in honour of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.

The novena, which takes place from June 1321 at the Redemptorist Church, Limerick, is the biggest annual religious event in the Mid-West. More than five thousand people are expected to attend each day.

This year’s novena focuses on the theme chosen by Pope Francis for this Holy Year 2025: ‘To be Pilgrims of Hope.’

“We are all aware of the increased fear and uncertainty that exists in the world at the present time,” says novena director, Fr Brian Nolan, C.Ss.R. “There’s so much anxiety about, with military and economic wars, political polarisation, a world at its most fraught in decades.

Hope seems in short supply.”

Pope Francis knew this, says Fr Nolan, and was anxious to address it.

“The Holy Father wanted us to discover hope in the signs of the times, in what is going on around us,” says Fr Nolan. “We must recognise the immense goodness present in our world, so that we don’t find ourselves overwhelmed by fear and darkness. During the novena, we will look at how we can be pilgrims of hope.”

The novena starts on June 13 and continues until June 21, with six sessions daily from 7.30am to 9.00pm. People can also join online from anywhere in the world through the website www.novena.ie, and submit their prayers of petition and thanksgiving.

Confession and a free walk-in counselling service will be available as well as the traditional novena highlights - the blessing of babies and children at every session on Sunday 15th, and a celebration for First Communion classes on Monday 16, at 11.30am.

A new feature this year is a quiet time from 2pm to 3pm each day from Monday to Friday (June 16-20). During this peaceful hour, there will be Adoration with benediction, guided meditation, and some reflections. It offers an opportunity to step back from the regular rush of the everyday to spend time with the Lord.

There will also be special sessions in their own language for the Ukrainian and Brazilian communities.

According to Fr Nolan, prayers of petition and thanksgiving are at the heart of the novena. “A novena session is never just a collection of individual people at prayer,” he says. “It is a community at prayer, the Church in prayer.

During the novena we are praying not just for ourselves, but for the local community and the wider world. Everyone is welcome and everyone is included. Pope Francis said that hopeful people shine a light, and that’s what we will do together during these nine days.”

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Olivia Tuohy left indelible mark through her warmth, kindness & sense of humour

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

“A BRIGHT light has been extinguished” with the death of Ennis nurse Olivia Tuohy while double rainbows will always serve as a reminder of her warm and caring personality for her loving family.

Twenty five year old Olivia died while partaking in the Edinburgh Half Marathon two weeks ago.

Mourners came in their droves to Saturday’s funeral mass at SS Peter and Paul Cathedral in Ennis and to the Tuohy’s family home on the Tulla Rd across the week and for Friday evening’s reposal.

For over half an hour following Saturday’s mass, people queued to sympathise with the family.

Olivia worked as a nurse in the vascular ward 105 of the Royal Infirmary in Edinburgh, having studied at Queen Margaret University.

She had built up a wide circle of friends at home in Ireland and in her adopted home of Scotland.

Her loved ones led the warm and glowing tributes at the funeral mass. A former past pupil of Rice College, Olivia played ladies football and camogie with Banner Ladies before relocating to Scotland. She was also a junior player with Ennis Lawn Tennis and Badminton Club.

Sincere thanks were voiced by Olivia’s mother Liz to the medical professionals and runners who provided help on the day of the half marathon and to the personnel who offered support to the Tuohy family in the bereavement suite in Edinburgh. She acknowledged the kindess shown by the people of Clare in paying their respect. “We would not be standing here today without the unwavering love and support from both our families and friends, the warmth and acts of kindness has given us great support and comfort, for that we will be always truly and deeply grateful. Both our families would like to extend our deep appreciation to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust who ensured Olivia arrived

home safely and to Kennedy Funeral Home for the help, kindness and support they have given us over the past two weeks, we will always be eternally grateful to you all”.

Liz explained that they will always think of Olivia when they see a rainbow given the bizarre coincidence that she and her son Stephen experienced on their separate journeys in the past fortnight. “We were in Dublin on our way to Edinburgh, we were near the airport and next thing my sister said ‘look at the rainbow’, there was this massive double rainbow, one of the widest and biggest I’ve ever seen, I remember saying ‘fly high baby girl’. The coincidence of it was when Laura and Stephen were leaving Vancouver, Stephen had never seen a double rainbow and next thing there was a double rainbow in Vancouver as well which is hard to believe.

To friends and family, whenever ye see a rainbow think of Olivia because she will be flying high. Not gone from us, simply before us”.

Following this, ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ was sung in Ennis Cathedral.

According to Kieran there were many stories which could be told about his daughter. “Olivia had a short and beautiful life, if I was to tell you all the stories about Olivia and the stuff I didn’t know it might be like Tom Cruise and Mission Impossible. I was tasked with teaching Olivia how to drive so one day after parking at home after one lesson, as ye all know as parents and who taught someone, Olivia storms in home and the door bangs, followed in a close second I’m in behind her and the door bangs, then silence.

‘Well that went well’, Liz said, I replied ‘if you heard the way she spoke to me, would you speak to your driving instructor like that’, quick off the mark Olivia said ‘well my

driving instructor would’t speak to me like that’ and I could see a tear in her eye, she was right, I apologised, we hugged and kissed, ‘tomorrow’ I said ‘there will be no more shouting and that is what happened’. Olivia passed first go, to everyone out there, thank you so much, to Olivia and her brother Stephen, we love you so much”.

Close friends of Olivia brought forward symbols of her life with her friend Kiara outlining, “each one of us has our memories of Olivia and most of those memories are filled with kindness, fun, laughter and a determined strength. There is so many symbols which could represent Olivia and we have chosen just a few that summed up here up”.

A football and hurley was brought forward by Roisin, “this represents Olivia’s love of sport, her team spirit and her drive. Her love for sports will forever remain in our hearts, reminding us to play hard, love fiercely and embrace every moment”.

Colleagues of Olivia’s in the Royal Infirmary compiled a memory book, this was put at the top of the altar with her nursing uniform and badge

by Chloe.

A shopping bag was presented by Nicole which “represents the many shopping trips with so many of us, memories we will now treasure forever”.

There was widespread

laughter as Rachel carried an Aperol Spritz glass with Olivia’s name on it. “Olivia loved having fun, creating time to laugh, enjoying good company and being surrounded by friends and family,” Kiara explained.

Family photos carried by Claire noted “the treasures of Olivia’s life. Family was so important to Olivia, the connections, the love, the fun and the simple things about family life, the essence of who Olivia was, special times are now the memories we all hold dear”.

Fr Ger Jones told the congregation, “Even though her earthly life was short, she had a profound and lasting impact on so many people, anyone who ever met her was all the better for it, her kindness, her warmth, her sense of humour left an indelible impression on everyone. Her presence in this world was short but was a great blessing, she herself was blessed with so many talents that she used as a service for the good of others,” he said.

FAMILY Cherish and document memories was the message echoed by Olivia’s brother Stephen as he recalled when the Tuohy family came to visit him in Canada with the persuasive nature of his sister coming to the fore in ensuring she stayed out longer than planned the night before flying home. “A friend recently reminded me of a moment that showed how close we are as a family but more so how Olivia had Dad wrapped around her fingers, Olivia, Mam, Dad and I were in a bar in Vancouver called Smith’s, an Irish bar in a place called Gastown, quite a sketchy area, it was pushing on 12 O’Clock which was late in Dad’s eyes but not Olivia’s. Dad had decided it was time to go home as Olivia was flying back to Edinburgh the following morning, Dad informed me that himself, Mam were going home and Olivia was to go with them, I

tried to argue a case for Olivia but Dad wasn’t having it. I think the words he said to me at the end ‘I’ve spoken’ so I nodded but I told my Dad I wouldn’t be telling Olivia this.

Dad seemed unfazed, meanwhile Olivia was down at the bar getting drinks for us completely unaware her night out was coming to an early close in Dad’s eyes.

“I decided to go down and help Olivia with the drinks and give her a heads up that Dad was adamant she was going home. Olivia didn’t believe me at first but then turned to me and said ‘don’t worry I’ll talk to him’.

“Olivia arrived back from the bar, gave out the drinks and sat down, that is when the fun started. Dad informed Olivia she was going home, Olivia responded by informing Dad that she was not, it went back and forth a few times, I have to leave a few things out because it’s not the right place to say what was said. Dad tried explaining it was a new country and a dangerous place to be out by yourself, not knowing where you were going.

“Olivia responded by saying this was nothing new to here with her many nights out in Edinburgh, Dad realised he was getting nowhere so he tried to play the guilt card asking Olivia would she come home please because it would make him feel happy and he’d appreciate it if she would listen to her old Dad. It backfired tremendously, Olivia told him to never blackmail her like that ever again and that she was staying out so Dad threw in the towel, a taxi was called for Mam and Dad and Olivia got her night out.

One thing I’ve learned from this is whenever you are out, even with just your friends or family even if it is just out for a walk, take a photo because you might not have the person sitting beside you right now forever but you will have a photo which is a memory forever”.

Addressing mourners, Olivia’s boyfriend Michael admitted that they left “nothing unsaid” in their relationship.

“I said I would talk from the heart and see what comes out. As you know one of my favourite activities is talking about Olivia. What we’ve been told over the last two weeks is there’s no words for what has happened but the big thing I want to say is thank you, firstly on behalf of all the people you met because you were such a kind, gorgeous, beautiful soul but mostly thank you from me because the love you brought into my life was sensational, we shared something which has been so hard to describe to people because it was so natural and we packed so much in during our time together.

“We left nothing unsaid and that is true, we weren’t together for nearly long enough or as long as we’d planned but we were going the right way, I knew exactly that it was a gold band to buy you not a silver band because you didn’t wear silver, you knew I wanted the biggest wedding possible so I could speak to you in front of as many people and I used to say ‘my wedding speech’ and you reminded me it was ‘our wedding’. I also knew your priorities, her main priority was a fancy coffee machine, she bought her Mam and Dad one but it was basically her toy to come home and play with, there’s so many memories I don’t need to go into them, I just need you to know that I love you, I’ll miss you and I need you to know darling I’m going to be okay because this week I realised I now have a second family to look after me and we’ve got on so well which is what you always wanted so please don’t worry about me”.

Olivia is survived by her heart broken parents Kieran and Liz and her brother Stephen and his partner Laura, her loving partner Michael and his parents Maria-Elena and Steven, aunts, uncles, cousins, neighbours and her friends both in Ireland and Edinburgh.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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Eir urged to develop fibre route to Kilrush following broadband outage

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DEVELOPMENT of a redundant fibre route into Kilrush and West Clare has been requested from eir in the aftermath of a major broadband outage which left over 4,400 homes and businesses in West Clare without internet.

Homes and businesses in West Clare were without internet following a road traffic collision between Lissycasey and Kilrush. Shortly before 4pm on Thursday, the single vehicle collision occurred which led to the outage.

An estimated 4,448 homes and businesses were without access to internet with crews restoring power

by Friday afternoon. Areas impacted include Cooraclare, Doonaha, Doonbeg, Kilkee, Kilmihil, Kilrush, Knock, Labasheeda and Rahey Cross.

CEO of eir, Oliver Loomes has been sent an open letter from the “businesses and individuals of West Clare” drafted by Kilrush based IT company Borrow A Geek. The correspondence details the “serious concern regarding the vulnerability of broadband infrastructure serving our communities. The recent and repeated outages caused by vehicular damage along the Ennis

Road have exposed a critical issue: a complete lack of network redundancy for fibre services in and out of Kilrush. This is no longer sustainable for a modern rural economy.

“Kilrush serves as the commercial, administrative, and social hub for West Clare. From financial institutions and pharmacies to retail businesses, remote workers, and public services, nearly every aspect of daily life now depends on reliable internet access. Yet, a single fibre cut can disconnect thousands of people across multiple towns and villages, bringing business and communication to a standstill and causing untold economic and social disruption. We are deeply disappointed that eir Ireland has not yet provided diverse and resilient fibre routes into Kilrush and West Clare. In a region already working hard to overcome rural disadvantage and attract investment, this kind of infrastructure failure sends a message that rural communities are not being treated with the same priority as urban centres,” the open letter added.

Eir have been urged to prioritise the development of a redundant fibre route into Kilrush from an alternative direction. “This is not

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just a technical improvement; it is a necessary investment in equity, economic resilience, and the future of rural Ireland”.

“Our businesses rely on digital services to operate, grow, and employ. Families rely on connectivity for education, telehealth, and basic communication. Without network redundancy, every small incident becomes a crisis—for local economies, for families, and for essential services”.

The open letter concluded, “Rural Ireland deserves better. West Clare demands better. And with your leadership, we believe eir Ireland can deliver the connectivity we need to thrive”.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) has formally written to eir expressing serious concern over the outage. She highlighted the deeply negative effect the outage is having on local businesses, schools, public services, and residents who rely on stable broadband access for work, education, healthcare and daily communication.

“This is not just an inconvenience – it is a significant barrier to community life, local enterprise and economic resilience. This incident underscores a wider concern

around the vulnerability of our rural digital infrastructure, and I am calling on eir to respond urgently,” she stated.

Eir have been requested to give a formal public statement addressing three key points, immediate response, impact assessment and future-proofing measures. The

Doonbeg woman has asked for a timely and transparent response from eir. “Our communities cannot be left behind in the digital age. I will continue to advocate for better infrastructure and greater accountability from service providers on behalf of the people of West Clare”.

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Community comes together at Relay for Life Clare 2025

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

RELAY for Life Clare will be returning to Tim Smythe Park (Fairgreen), Lifford, Ennis, Co. Clare, on 21 June 2025, to continue its mission of raising funds for cancer research, increasing awareness for organisations such as the Irish Cancer Society, and celebrating the resilience of cancer survivors, their families, and dedicated volunteers.

One such volunteer is Veronica Byrne, whose 12 years of commitment exemplifies the true spirit of community support.

A Dedicated Volunteer Veronica Byrne has been a volunteer driver with the Irish Cancer Society since 2013. Her journey into volunteering was sparked by a desire to give practical and emotional support to those battling cancer.

“The Irish Cancer Society had a campaign looking for volunteer drivers at the time because the service was quite new, it was mainly Dublin-centered, and they were launching it in Galway and Limerick, so they were looking for drivers in the MidWest area,” she explained to the Clare Echo.

As a student pursuing a master’s degree at the time, Veronica appreciated how flexible the service was and felt she could easily fit the volunteering into her schedule.

“It meant that when I dropped patients, I had a long wait because with chemo appointments, , which can last up to a full day,” she explains. “People might need to be there at 8 a.m., and sometimes it’s five or six in the evening when they finish. I could go to the library at NUIG while they had their treatment, and it fit seamlessly into my schedule.”

Veronica works for Chartered Accountants Ireland.

Her employment plays a significant role in enabling her to dedicate time to volunteering by actively supporting her and her fellow employees’ involvement in community initiatives.

“They’re very supportive of volunteering.”

Providing practical and emotional support The Transport Service organises transport to and from the hospital for cancer patients undergoing treatment who do not have any means of transport themselves. The service is offered nationwide and is entirely

lVOLUNTEER DRIVER: Veronica Byrne

delivered by volunteer drivers, under the supervision of the transport team within the Irish Cancer Society.

“Some people have very practical reasons for needing this service,” she notes.

“For example, one person I’ve taken several times is on long-term treatment, and their illness prevents them from driving. Their partner doesn’t drive, so friends/ family would have to use their annual leave or rely on taxis, which can become expensive and hard to access in rural areas.”

Veronica explained that for some patients availing of the service means taking away the burden of driving themselves to the hospital for appointments.

“Imagine if you have to be up at 6 because you have to be at the hospital for 8am, then you have to sit through a full day of treatment in a warm hospital room and then you have to get back into your car and face traffic on your way home, I mean it would just be overwhelming.”

The essential service provided by Veronica and other volunteer drivers also ensures patients’ safety when travelling to and from hospital appointments. For those living in larger cities their only other option may be to take public transport. As some treatments can compromise a person’s immune system, taking public transport regularly in order to attend appointments is not safe or practical. Veronica explained that every driver is provided with sanitising supplies and is encouraged to clean down seats and arm rests before providing lifts to ensure the users are safe during the journey.

Veronica’s role as a volunteer driver involves more than just transportation; it’s about offering companionship and a friendly presence during what can be a stressful time.

“It’s a lovely experience.

People are delighted to meet someone new. If you are travelling with the same person everyday or maybe a family member, the conversation may be quite focused

on the appointment, but as with meeting anyone new for the first time, in a small situation in my car, it’s just about general life. About their children, holidays, absolutely anything” explained Veronica.

She emphasizes the importance of respecting a patient’s privacy throughout the process. “If they want to share about their illness or treatment, that’s entirely up to them. It’s their journey, and I don’t ask questions. And it is their journey so I don’t harp on about any experience I have or why I volunteer for the cancer society. It’s not about me, it’s about them.”

Although her volunteer work provides invaluable aid to people undergoing cancer treatment Veronica believes

that she gets more out of the journey than she puts in.

“You get to meet some lovely people. It’s very rewarding to be part of something like that whilst being able to provide something just really practical” says Veronica.

Relay for Life Clare 2025 Beyond her volunteer driver role, Veronica is actively involved in Relay for Life Clare. “I’ve been part of the driver team for the relay before and I will be taking part again this year.

“It’s about raising awareness, showing solidarity, and supporting people both volunteers and patients.” She describes the event as having a warm, community feel; “It’s like something you’d

see in a small village, a fete or community gathering. It really embodies the spirit of togetherness.”

Getting Involved There are many ways to contribute to Relay for Life Clare. Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or simply spreading awareness, every effort helps make a difference.

Relay for Life Clare is encouraging everyone in County Clare to get involved.

You can register a team or as a survivor to take part in the relay. People can also purchase a Candle of Hope to dedicate to a loved one who has passed on. For those who cannot attend on the day can make a donation online at relayforlifeennis.ie.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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11

New vision for Coláiste Eoghan Over concentration of 2-Bed homes halts Uí Chomhraidhe set out Meelick housing plan

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

PLANS have been lodged to turn a former Irish college in Carrigaholt into “a residential cultural and educational centre with overnight visitor accommodation”.

Coláiste Eoghan Uí Chomhraidhe successfully operated as an Irish summer residential college for over 100 years from 1912 until its closure in 2017.

Major renovations are planned for the site including an extension of the college’s main building to facilitate a new entrance and to convert several of its facilities into two-bedroom residential units for “overnight visitor accommodation”. These include the former toilet and shower block, former dorm building, wash house and class room buildings. Four bedroom accommodation is also planned for the site, in the former headmaster’s office.

The plans outline a new office and administration unit to be built in the former teacher’s building and the provision of a new multiuse games area as well as a garden and carparking.

Under the proposed development, the ground floor of the college’s main building will be renovated and contain a games room, language lab, lounge area and large

communal kitchen. The existing basketball and tennis courts at the site will be lost in the construction of a new wastewater treatment system at the site.

There are plans to remove three existing tennis courts at the northern end of the site and replace these with a multi-use games are (MUGA) which will be available to the public, subject to booking. In addition to this, the grass around the college is planned to be landscaped so that it can be used for picnic areas, outdoor dining and as an outdoor meeting place.

Kilkee architects Diarmuid Keane & Associates has drawn up plans for the development and issued a planning statement detailing the proposed development. The property is situated on the seafront, overlooking the Shannon Estuary and Northern Kerry.

Coláiste Eoghain is described as a “hidden gem” but one that will “require significant investment in order to bring it up to standard for continued use both in the short term and medium to long term”.

The planning statement described Coláiste Eoghain as “an important part of the life of West Clare, where thousands of children have attended for summer Irish language learning over the course of one hundred years”. No maintenance work have been undertaken

since its closure.

A Natura Impact Statement carried out by Ash Ecology and Environmental found that “None of the potential direct or indirect impacts associated with the proposed development will affect the conservation objectives of any of the qualifying interest habitats or species of the Lower River Shannon SAC”.

Clare County Council is due to make a decision on the development by the 23rd of July. Submissions and objections can be made by the public until the 2nd of July.

PLANS:Coláiste Eoghan Uí Chomhraidh

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

AN “OVER CONCENTRATION” of two-bedroom units, lack of pedestrian connectivity and ecological issues have put a halt to a planned sixty house development in Meelick.

Clare County Council are requesting further information in relation to the development in the Gortgarraun area. The project has received a representation from Cllr.

Tony Mulcahy (FG).

In April 2025, Coast to Coast Energy Solutions Ltd applied to Clare County Council, seeking permission for “60 dwelling houses, comprising 4 dethatched houses, 20 semi dethatched houses and 36 duplex units”. The local authority has found issues with this application however and is now requesting that further information be provided before a decision can be made.

The planning department has expressed the opinion that “the development as proposed would not provide for an acceptable degree of housing mix and that there is an overconcentration of two bedroom units which account for approx. 75% of the overall development”.

Clare County Council also stressed that a more balanced form of development is required and that more three and four bedroom dwellings would be preferred as this would be more in keeping with the

area. Coast to Coast has provided some consideration for families in the development however as plans for a children’s playground are included in the application.

The planning department has also raised concerns over a perceived lack of pedestrian accessibility to the proposed development.

The local authority has noted “a gap of approximately 70m between the site and the existing public footpath”. This gap is in close proximity to the proposed playground, causing Clare County Council to ask that this be addressed in subsequent applications.

The site of the proposed development is located close to the Lower River Shannon SAC. A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been submitted as part of the application but the council has found problems with this as well.

The local authority has questioned how planned wildflower meadows will be incorporated into the development and how these will be managed as part of the All-Ireland Pollinator plan. A revised landscape plan has been requested as a result. The council has also noted that one EV charging station for every five car parking spaces has not been planned for this development’s current application.

Coast to Coast Energy Solutions now have at least four weeks to submit the further information requested to Clare County Council.

12

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Contributors

Reflexology at Clare Wellness Clinic WHAT a beautiful therapy reflexology is, and nobody can be forgotten where this therapy is concerned.

Reflexology is an ancient healing practice that involves the application of light pressure on particular point on the feet that are reflected and connected to point on the whole body.

I have had the privilege of working on many sets of feet since I qualified in reflexology. The benefit can be seen for all members of the family from the very young to more mature and wider members of the family. It is amazing to be able to read what is going on in peoples lives through reading the feet.

Emotional Health- with reflexology being of a tactic of nature it is often quite nurturing and is done in a compassionate environment that encourages mental clarity and emotional balance. Reflexology creates an environment were people often feel safe to talk about their emotion without being judged.

During the initial assessment it

is easy to see where the emotional issues are, and some are very happy to discuss and speak about where they are at emotionally.

Stress reduction and relaxationone of the primary benefits of reflexology is how calming it is on the body, and it is highly effective at reducing stress and promoting relaxation. The benefit of reflexology can be felt for anything from hours to days. A great night’s sleep is one of the top benefits of reflexology.

At the end of each treatment at the clinic I wrap the feet in warm blankets with a soothing light massage that brings the treatment to a most beautiful completion. My signature ending is followed by the spray of St Michael Aura spray which bring a nice holistic approach to the treatment.

Improve Circulation- With the application of pressure to the feet it encourages the flow of blood throughout the body helping oxygen and nutrients reach the organs more effectively. Extremely sup-

portive for clients with a desire for better circulation.

Pain- Pain can span across the whole body from migraines, back pain, joint pain, PMS etc. Reflexology has been known to reduce tension and provide relief from all types of pain and even chronic pain. I have seen this in the clinic over the years. Often if pain is chronic after a number of treatments, I usually recommend to incorporate other treatments at the clinic. Wonderful progress is made in the reduction of pain.

Mental clarity- reflexology has the potential to address mental clarity, improve focus and create a more balanced emotional state.

Most clients may fall into a light sleep or meditative state during the treatment. Others may use it as an opportunity to express where they are in life and like to explore their thoughts. This has proven to be very rewarding for clients. I do believe that we don’t speak out enough about how we feel about

things. When we hear ourselves speak about our problems, often we find the solution for ourselves. It is always good to talk!

These are just some of the benefits of reflexology for the family.

Reflexology at the Clare Wellness Clinic is a treat for the toes and it is true to say that in each treatment I get to work on people’s soul. Help-

ing people to feel like they are walking on sunshine and leave a little sparkle wherever they go!

It is a treatment that is loved by all. It is my greatest pleasure to see how relaxed and calm clients feel as they receive this beautiful therapy.

Its available on its own or in combination.

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

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

News

Judge jails four family members including one who slashed mother of five with a stanley knife

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has jailed a Shannon man for 22 months for slashing a mother of five with a Stanley knife and smashing glass in a caravan close to where her two week old baby lay during a violent disorder incident.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford imposed the 22 month jail term on Bernard McDonagh (32) of St Helen’s Park, Ballymurtagh, Shannon for his role in the violent order incident in Shannon as part of a feud with another family in January 20th 2021.

In sentencing, Judge Comerford has jailed four members of the McDonagh family for the violent disorder incident and said that the four continued their violent disorder knowing that there were only women and children from the other side present.

Judge Comerford said that “this was a premeditated act of violent disorder intended to intimidate people where there were only wom-

en and children present”.

Judge Comerford said that the men had implements that were sufficient to damage “and weapons with potential to damage property or people”.

Judge Comerford said that there had been no remorse shown by the accused or an apology to the victims.

Judge Comerford said that Bernard McDonagh was the most culpable of the five members of the McDonagh family before the court and it was his third conviction for violent disorder and third conviction for assault causing harm in the feud.

As part of her victim impact statement, Victoria Keenan said that she was ‘helpless’ when a group of Shannon men attacked a caravan that at the time was occupied by her two week old baby and her four other small children.

Ms Keenan said that her then two week old baby was on top of the bed at the time and “as a mother I felt helpless and I will never get over how a group of men could treat a

woman with five small babies”.

She said, “I got assaulted when trying to save my babies from what was happening”.

At the sentencing hearing, Det Sgt Kevin O’Hagan said that the attack on the caravan was the third time that members of the McDonagh family had been found guilty of violent disorder as part of ongoing issues between the McDonagh family from Ballymurtagh in Shannon and the Harty-Keenan family from Co Limerick who have family members living in Sixmilebridge.

Det Sgt O’Hagan said that convictions have been recorded against members of the McDonagh family from two previous violent incidents at the Oakwood Hotel in Shannon in 2018 and Supermacs in Shannon in 2019.

Det Sgt O’Hagan said that in January 2021, members of the Harty Keenan family moved to a site at Illaunmanagh, Shannon “and tensions rose again”.

In sentencing, Judge Comerford said that Bernard McDonagh shat-

tered the glass in close proximity to where the two week old baby was and slashed the mother of the baby, Victoria Keenan with a Stanley knife across the arm.

Judge Comerford said that the act of violent disorder goes beyond the mid-range level.

Judge Comerford imposed a prison sentence of 72 months on Bernard McDonagh with the last 50 months suspended resulting in jail time of 22 months.

Judge Comerford said that it may be too lenient and said that he took the impact on Mr McDonagh’s five children into account.

Judge Comerford imposed a 13 month jail term on Thomas McDonagh (24) of Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon, after giving Thomas McDonagh a 57 month prison term and suspended the final 44 months.

Judge Comerford imposed an 18 month jail term on John McDonagh Jnr (26) of Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon

Shots fired at caravan minutes after Garda Armed Support Unit left

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 23 year old Dublin man has appeared in court concerning three shots allegedly fired at a caravan in an Ennis halting site last week.

At Ennis District Court today, Johnny Donovan of Bay 3, Rathmichael, Shankill, Co Dublin appeared in connection with four charges arising from the shooting incident at Ballaghboy halting site, Quin Rd, Ennis on Thursday, May 29th last.

At a contested bail hearing, Det Garda Aoife O’Malley told the court that there had been unrest all week due to tensions between certain families at Ballaghboy halting site with Gardaí responding to multiple incidents.

Det Garda O’Malley said that additional Gardaí have been deployed to police the situation and she said that the shooting

incident took place only ten minutes after the Garda Armed Support Unit (ASU) had left the scene.

Det Garda O’Malley said that the alleged shooting showed blatant disregard for An Garda Síochána.

She said that the fire-arm has not yet been recovered.

Det Garda O’Malley said that it will be alleged that on May 29th last, “Johnny Donovan while travelling in a grey BMW jeep entered Ballaghboy halting site, Quin Rd, Ennis and accompanied by a second male produced a hand-gun and fired three indiscriminate shots at a caravan in the first bay”.

No person was shot but Det Garda O’Malley said that two people were present in the bay at the time of the shooting.

She said that one of the two took a video which captures her running to a vehicle to take cover and captures three gunshots.

Det Garda O’Malley said that no persons are identified in the video.

She said that a Garda Scenes of Crime unit examined the scene and found one caravan had three bullet holes while one spent bullet was found inside the caravan.

Det Garda O’Malley said that Mr Donovan is facing three charges of criminal damage of property at Ballaghboy and a fourth under the Firearms and Weapons act concerning use of a Hurley or a stick.

Det Garda O’Malley said there is a possibility that more serious charges are to follow and Judge Alec Gabbett described the charges before the court as holding charges.

Det O’Malley said that evidence gathered by the Scenes of Crime unit confirmed that a shooting incident did occur.

She said that the video of the alleged shootings showed that a viable firearm capable of causing death of serious harm was used.

Det Garda O’Malley said that Garda seized the jeep allegedly used in the shooting and found a hurley, a pitch fork, an axe and small bottles filled with accelerants.

Det Garda O’Malley said that Mr Donovan who, she said, has family links to Co Clare is first cousins of the partners of the injured parties in this case.

She said, “They are all very well known to each other and until recently would have been very friendly with each other”.

Solicitor for Mr Donovan, John Casey applied for bail stating that Mr Donovan was willing not to enter Clare as part of his bail conditions.

However, Judge Gabbettr refused bail and remanded Mr Donovan in custody to Limerick prison to appear in court next Wednesday via video link.

after handing out a 61 month prison term and suspending the final 43 months.

Judge Comerford imposed a one year jail term on Patrick McDonagh (29) of St Helen’s Park, Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon after sentencing him to 54 months with the final 42 months suspended.

Judge Comerford said that he wasn’t jailing John McDonagh Snr as he has no previous conviction for violent disorder and none relating to the feud.

Judge Comerford imposed a 49 month suspended prison term on John McDonagh Snr (40) of Ballymurtagh halting site, Shannon and ordered him to donate €5,000 to the St Vincent de Paul in Shannon.

Judge Comerford backdated Bernard McDonagh’s and John McDonagh Jnr’s jail terms to February when they were first remanded in custody.

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Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News: LE24 expenses special

Councillors claim €106k in election campaign expenses

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A TOTAL of €106,352.35 was claimed by the 28 elected members of Clare County Council in expenses for last year’s local elections.

The Clare Echo has analysed the disclosure of donations and expenditure, spending limits and political donation accounts by the fifty nine candidates that put themselves forward for election 12 months ago.

Of the 28 successful candidates, their combined bill amounts to €106,352.35. Joe Cooney TD (FG) who has gone from the Council to the Dáil was the only candidate not to claim a cent despite completing the self-declaration form.

Candidates can claim back for expenses including election posters, leaflets, transport, hotel stays, room rental, office and stationery, advertising in local media, use of communications consultants, market research and campaign workers.

Kildysart native Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) who took the final seat in the Ennis MD racked up the biggest bill in the county at €8243.60.

In his second election, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) saw his expenses soar to €8049.90 in the Ennistymon LEA. Poll-topper in the Kilrush LEA, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) had the third highest claim at €6983.39 followed by running mate Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) with €6780.00.

Making his return to politics was no cheap run for Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) who took the seventh and final seat in the Shannon MD after running up costs of €6312.90 during the campaign.

Rounding out the top ten spenders were Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) with €6,266.49, Clllr Dinny Gould (IND) on €6125.90, Cllr Pat Hayes

(FF) with €5067.80, Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) with €4984.34 and Cllr Michael Begley (IND) on €4651.55.

By electoral area, the total claims for successful candidates amount to €26,128.00 (Ennis MD), €25,236.63 (Kilrush LEA), €21,648.83 (Shannon MD), €21,182.39 (Ennistymon LEA) and €12,156.50 (Killaloe MD).

In Clare, a total of 59 candidates contested the local elections, unsuccessful candidates who did not reach the quota are not reimbursed.

The total claim with all candidates includes rises from €106k to €148,886.40.

Some unsuccessful candidates to take a hit in the coffers were Amanda Major (IND) €5400, Hilary Tonge (SD) €4864.12, Fiona Levie (SD) €3881.50, John Hill (II) €2838, Therese Doohan (FG) €2579.99, Martina Cleary (SF) €2324.38 and Kevin Hassett (II) €2310.

Spending over €8,000 was necessary according to Cllr Tom O’Callaghan. “I was adamant I wanted to win a seat and I felt it was possible, it was a challenge for Fianna Fáil to win four seats in Ennis but we did.

This was all from my own funds with no donations.

“I take the job very seriously, I was on the road for many months, my first biggest challenge was to get out of Clarecastle where there is a strong base of candidates and that was always going to be difficult for me coming from West Clare so I had to spend money”.

Of his total figure, O’Callaghan spent €6,400 on advertising, from this €1,597 went to Realprint for printing flyers, €1,551 was for a leaflet drop within The Clare Echo newspaper with further adverts in The Echo and The Clare Champion

l COSTS: Cllr Joe Garrihy was curtailed from canvassing due to injury; (left) Pay Hayes paid for everything himself and (top left) Tom O’Callaghan was the biggest spender overall Photos by Joe Buckley & Tom Micks

plus a fee to his party.

“I can’t say I’d do anything differently, it is a big area and I needed to put my feet on the ground by getting literature out. I felt the only way to get the message out to the public was in print, I went the old way by supporting the local media as much as I could”.

Injury curtailed Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) from canvassing in-person requiring a greater spend.

He had the second highest claim of the Clare councillors. “I spent a lot of money because I was offline in terms of canvassing with my hip so I couldn’t do traditional canvassing, I had to spend money on flyers and social media, I had to spend more money than I’d like because

I wasn’t mobile and couldn’t get around so I compensated by using social media. This approach also saw him pay Miltown Malbay based Hynesight Video Production €1,500 for a campaign video.

Election posters saw the Lisdoonvarna man incur costs of €2654 which he feels needs to be more regulated.

“When you get to it then itbecomes a comp, I think we have to limit the amount of posters, it became a concern for me when I couldn’t get around and you end up in a spiral of having to compete when someone else who gets a second blast of posters.

“It is a good part of the process

and of democracy but it can get farcical and you get in the spiral of being in an adrenaline rush of trying to get elected, you get caught up and end up getting another batch. It should be limited so everyone only has a certain amount and that there is a shared surface”.

In East Clare, the experienced Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) had the highest spend with over €2,500 on election material alone.

“I paid for everything myself, I printed my own leaflets, I’ve never used the party system and I am more comfortable telling my own story”.

He said the majority was spent with RealPrint to print 5,000 leaflets for a localised drop.

ENNIS MD Candidate

Total

Advertising

Publicity

Election Posters

Other Election Office/ Material Stationery

Transport/ Travel

Market Research

Campaign Workers

Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) € 2,834.34 € 1,983.99 Tom O’Callaghan (FF) € 8,243.60 € 6,400.10 Amanda Major (IND) € 5,400.00 € 900.00 Hilary Tonge (SD) € 4,864.12 € 1,858.74 Pat Daly (FF) € 4,600.00 € 2,400.00 Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) € 3,607.82 € 1,793.25 € 3,446.14 € 530.03 Bridget Ginnity (GP) Paul Murphy (FG) € 3,209.30 € 390.19 Mary Howard (FG) € 2,341.44 Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) € 1,291.50 € 1,291.50 Jacek Kwasny (IND) no claim submitted Ruairí Keenan (IND) no claim submitted Seamus Ryan (LAB) no claim submitted

€ € € 1,000.00 € 300.00 € € 344.41 € 260.00 € 200.00

€ 730.35 € 553.50 € 2,000.00 € 1,625.00 € 1,000.00 € 204.67 € 527.85 € 768.43

€ € € € € € € €

690.00 900.00 1,080.38 200.00 1,204.99 2,128.26 1,850.68

€ € € € € € € €

-

€ € € € € € € €

600.00 300.00 500.00 -

€ € € € € € € €

-

€ 120.00 € € 300.00 € € 500.00 € € € -

€

€

€

-

€

-

€

-

€

-

€

-

-

-

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

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

News: LE24 expenses special

15

Sinn Féin buck trend by opting against local printers

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A CENTRALSIED approach from headquarters has been cited by senior Sinn Féin officials in Clare on their decision to use Belfast companies for the printing of election literature for candidates in the county.

Ennis based RealPrint and D2 Print were the printers of choice for the majority of the

59 candidates in Clare when finalising their literature for the 2024 local elections with Sinn Féin bucking the trend of choosing businesses from the Banner County.

Belfast-based McGowans Print were used by Sinn Féin for the election posters of Donna McGettigan TD (SF), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), Cllr James Ryan (SF), Dawn Bennett (SF), Martina Cleary (SF)

and Conor O’Sullivan. The average fee here was €230.26 for 45 posters.

Leaflets were printed by Alliance Print Solutions located in Galway.

A batch of 5,000 working out at €328.58.

Director of Elections for Sinn Féin in Clare, Finbarr MacGabhann who is also the party’s Cuige chair told The Clare Echo, “generally we cen-

tralise them, we send all our designs off to head office and they order them in bulk. Sinn Féin centralise as much as possible in order to get a discount for ordering in bulk. A lot of the ordering is done centrally”.

Cllr Rachel Haritgan (FF) also went out of the county but for the purpose of acquiring headshots.

PICTURED: Sinn Féin’s Tommy Guilfoyle. Photo by Chris Copley

ENNISTYMON MD Candidate

Total

Advertising

Publicity

Election Posters

Other Election Office/ Material Stationery

Transport/ Travel

Market Research

Campaign Workers

Joe Garrihy (FG) Bill Slattery (FG) Joe Killeen (FF) Shane Talty (FF) Conor O’Sullivan (SF) Denis Vaughan (LAB) Michael Loughrey (IP) Pam O’Loughlin (IND) Liam Grant (GP)

€ 8,049.90 € 6,266.49 € 3,866.00 € 3,000.00 € 1,708.77 € 679.00 € 349.25 € 345.00

€ 1,749.00 € 500.00 € 1,100.00 € 1,000.00 € 321.77 € € € -

€ 1,500.00 € 500.00 € 210.00 € € 768.75 € € € -

€ 2,654.24 € 3,016.49 € 1,106.00 € 1,000.00 € 289.67 € 300.00 € 334.25 € -

€ 1,696.66 € 150.00 € 200.00 € 300.00 € 1,200.00 € € 1,000.00 € € 328.58 € € 135.00 € € 15.00 € € 150.00 € -

€ 300.00 € 1,750.00 € 250.00 € € € 244.00 € € 195.00

€ € € € € € € €

€ € € € € € € €

no claim submitted.

-

-

16

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News: LE24 expenses special

Keating claimed over €2k on diesel

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MORE than €2,000 in diesel was claimed by a West Clare councillor during a period of sixty days prior to polling day.

Data obtained by The Clare Echo from the Disclosure of Donations and Expenditure, Spending Limits and Political Donation Accounts for candidates in last year’s local elections has revealed that Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) claimed for €2050 on diesel during the campaign.

Cross native Gabriel who resides on the outskirts of Ennis had a total claim of €4984, almost forty one percent of which was related to travel expenses.

Also in the Kilrush local electoral area (LEA), high transport and travel fees were submitted by Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) at €1980 and John Hill (II) at €1300, as Hill was unsuccessful in his election bid

he will not be reimbursed. Cllr Bill Slattery (FG)’s travel bill in the Ennistymon LEA hit €1750 and Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) in the Killaloe MD claimed for transport and travel expenses of €1150.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Keating commented of his fuel claim, “You’re going around for 90 days with €50 for diesel, stopping and starting for a day and you’ve 90 days from April to June which works to €4000”.

He continued, “It’s not an area where I spend monies or buy people dinners, I go on the work I do and the slogan that I get things done”.

With the Kilrush LEA stretching from Ballyea to the Loop Head Peninsula, there is a lot of miles to cover in the constituency, Cllr Keating flagged. “I’m in a rural area.

An urban councillor walks around town, my area goes from Newhall to Loop Head up to Quilty back to

l Cllr Gabriel Keating says he opted against suing the Council after losing his car due to a flash flood during the last GE campaign

the Bellbridge over to Kildysart.

“It is a massive area, I do all the

driving myself, I’ve the biggest area as a rural councillor. You must

spend money to get in and I could have spent more. If you travel West Clare and see the roads, you’re putting in diesel, AdBlue and getting servicing for the three months on the road,” he added.

Keating said, “Travel is very expensive, I do three goes, morning, afternoon and evening which means I’m going all the time, people like you to call, the areas most out of reach they like you calling to see them and speaking to them”.

When it came to canvassing for Dr Tom Nolan (FG) in November for the General Election, the former Deputy Mayor suffered irreparable damage to his red Audi when sea-water in Quilty got into the engine of his car. “I lost my car out of the last election, a driver error, I could have sued the Council because there was no sign up, I wasn’t going spending Council money there, it was my own resources then”.

KILRUSH MD Candidate

Total

Advertising

Rita McInerney (FF) Michael Shannon (FF) Dinny Gould (IND) Gabriel Keating (FG) John Hill (II) Therese Doohan (FG) Kevin Hassett (II) Dawn Bennett (SF) Alan Troy (FF) Cillian Murphy (FF) Joseph Woulfe (II) Susan Griffin (GP) Ian Lynch (IND)

€ 6,983.39 € 6,780.00 € 6,125.90 € 4,984.34 € 2,838.00 € 2,579.99 € 2,310.00 € 1,649.36 € 1,471.60 € 1,286.11 € 897.60 € 611.55 € 363.00

€ 1,659.69 € 1,500.00 € 3,001.20 € 1,063.00 € 1,021.40 € € 450.00 € 1,090.52 € 793.35 € € 153.75 € € -

Total

Advertising

Publicity

€ € € € € € € € € € € € €

Election Posters

Other Election Office/ Material Stationery

Transport/ Travel

Market Research

Campaign Workers

250.00 738.00 31.06 80.00 -

€ € 1,500.00 € 1,586.70 € 1,871.34 € 516.60 € 1,885.49 € 1,650.00 € 230.26 € 238.25 € 674.04 € € 393.60 € -

€ 4,208.70 € 120.00 € 300.00 € 1,300.00 € 100.00 € 1,980.00 € € € 800.00 € € € 2,050.00 € € € 1,300.00 € 350.07 € € 313.17 € € 30.00 € 100.00 € 328.58 € € € 190.00 € € 250.00 € 144.00 € € 468.07 € 243.91 € € 500.00 € 192.95 € 25.00 € € 363.00 € € -

€ € € € € € € € € € € € €

-

€ 600.00 € 150.00 € € € € € € € € € € € -

Publicity

Election Posters

Other Election Office/ Material Stationery

Transport/ Travel

Market Research

Campaign Workers

€ € 1,288.00 € € 511.68 € € € € -

€ 2,564.00 € € 732.56 € € 637.00 € € 426.98 € € € € 141.45 € € € € 355.00 € 275.00

€ 300.00 € 110.22 € 400.00 € € 450.00 € € € 1,150.00

€ € € € € € € €

€ € € € € € € €

KILLALOE MD Candidate

Pat Hayes (FF) Fiona Levie (SD) Tony O’Brien (FF) Martina Cleary (SF) Pat Burke (FG) Audrey Flynn (GP) Joe Cooney (FG) Alan O’Callaghan (FF) Matt Moroney (IND)

€ 5,067.80 € 1,203.80 € 3,881.50 € 1,640.67 € 3,178.70 € 1,279.20 € 2,324.38 € 1,385.72 € 1,680.00 € 1,230.00 € 158.90 € € € € 2,230.00 € 450.00 no claim submitted

€ € € € € € € €

95.00 862.50 -

-

15.05 17.45 -

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

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Hot wheels: Cllr Begley claimed €1.7k for e-bike

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’s longest serving councillor claimed almost €2,000 to acquire an e-bike in advance of last year’s local elections.

All election candidates are obliged to disclose their expenditure and donations within sixty days of polling day as per the Local Elections (Disclosure Of Donations And Expenditure) Act, 1999.

Included in the expenses claim for Cllr Michael Begley (IND) for the local elections is a €1750 bill to purchase an e-bike.

When questioned by The Clare Echo on the €1750 e-bike, Cllr Begley explained, “I did that on the basis that rural canvassing is very awkward when driving, I found it extremely helpful and advantageous when canvassing rural areas.

“When you go down a rural road with thirty houses you’ll make three sections of that, you will park the car to walk and do ten houses and come back again. I do most of the canvassing on my own so that was the purpose of getting it and it worked out very well”.

Prices of e-bikes can vary from under €500 to €3,300.

Cllr Begley confirmed that he purchased an EZEGO at The Bike Shop on O’Connell Avenue in Limerick City.

This bike can travel a distance of 60km from a battery charge, he said.

“I still use it, it isn’t something that finished when the election was over. It was great value I think”.

A total of €1703.55 was filed by Cllr Begley in his declaration form for advertising.

While candidates are to include fees for within sixty days of polling day (June 7th), his included adverts from February and December.

“If I had a second time round I wouldn’t have spent the money, I was very disappointed with how they presented the stuff but it is water under

 Cllr Begley found the e-bike helpful for rural canvassing

the bridge now,” he said of some newspaper advertising.

With seven seats on offer in the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Begley took the sixth seat in what was a nervy two days of tallying for the former Mayor of Clare.

His return of 831 first preferences was below that of PJ Ryan (IND) on 831 but it was the transfers from Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Val Gillane (FG) that served as a savour in keeping his political career alive and seeing Ryan emerge as one of the big casualties in the county.

1991 was Begley’s first election to the County Council when he succeeded on his third attempt. He lost his seat in 2004 but has been returned in the subsequent 2009, 2014, 2019 and 2024 elections. He became the first Clonlara person to serve as Mayor of Clare and Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District.

News: LE24 expenses special

Relay For Life Clare

Cancer Survivors & Those Living With Cancer Are Invited to Walk the Opening Lap With Us 21st June at 2pm

Tim Smythe Park (Fairgreen), Ennis, Co Clare Scan to register as a Cancer survivor or email on relayforlifeclare@gmail.com

SHANNON MD Tony Mulcahy (FG) € 6,312.90 € 3,016.57 Michael Begley (IND) € 4,651.55 € David Griffin (FF) € 3,595.57 € 419.19 John Crowe (FG) € 3,302.14 € 461.25 James Ryan (SF) € 1,957.84 € 1,373.42 Donna McGettigan (SF) € 1,674.94 € 1,090.52 John Haugh (AON) € 1,204.51 € Rachel Hartigan (FF) € 1,231.73 € 645.48 Val Gillane (FG) € 984.40 € 984.40 Pat O’Gorman (FF) € 880.00 € Keith McNamara (IND) € 834.08 € 504.30 Pat Barry (IND) € 751.95 € Conor O’Brien (IND) € € no claim submitted.

Fursa Cavanagh (GP) PJ Ryan (IND) no claim submitted.

€ € 1,703.55 € 319.80 € € € € € 461.25 € € 150.00 € 12.99 € € -

€ 1,686.49 € € 2,183.55 € 1,717.24 € 255.84 € 255.84 € 836.01 € € € € 185.00 € 105.00 € -

€ 1,424.85 € 185.00 €

-

€

-

€ 623.10 € 49.93 € € 1,123.65 € € € 328.58 € € € 328.58 € € € 368.50 € € € 125.00 € € € € € € 330.00 € € € 131.79 € € € 646.95 € € € € €

400.00 -

€ € € € € € € € € € €

-

€ € € € € € € € € € € € €

60.00 -

17

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Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Award-winning Fossett’s Circus Live at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park THE award-winning Fossett’s Circus is making a spectacular return to Bunratty Castle and Folk Park at 4pm, on June 14, and June 15. Set against the stunning backdrop of Bunratty Castle, this event promises to be a highlight of the summer season.

As Ireland’s longest running circus, Fossett’s Circus is renowned for its family-friendly entertainment and amazing shows. With a long history and a dedication to quality, Fossett’s Circus never fails to enthral audiences nationwide. Fossett’s Circus will bring a dazzling array of performances to delight audiences of all ages, from world-class jugglers and aerial acrobats to audacious daredevils.

Charlotte Rebers, Operations Manager at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, said, “We are excited to welcome back Fossett’s Circus to Bunratty. All circus goers will receive free entry to the Castle and Folk Park, so take advantage of this offer and make it a full day out for the whole family.”

Marion Fossett, the ringmaster of Fossett’s Circus has been carrying on a family tradition that has lasted for generations.

She said, “All of our performers and crew have fond memories of our previous Bunratty visits and this year we promise to put on an unforgettable show for the people of Clare. Highlights of our circus include the Globe of Speed, the Wheel of Death, and the Lazer Women.”

Tickets for this event includes access to both Fossett’s Circus and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, allowing visitors to explore the historic castle and its beautiful surroundings before and after the show.

For more information and to book tickets visit: https:// w w w.bunrattycastle. ie/events/ circus/

GLOBE OF SPEED

OTTO THE CLOWN

WHEEL OF DEATH

LAZER WOMAN & MORE

BUNRATTY CASTLE & FOLK PARK 14 & 15 JUNE 2025

BOOK NOW: WWW.BUNRATTYCASTLE.IE

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

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

38 MOYGLASS, CRUSHEEN, CO CLARE

€275,000

DOONAGAN HOUSE, MULLAGH, CO. CLARE

€449,000

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 10:00AM TO 10:30AM

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CLOONA, DYSERT, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

€449,000

KNOCKNAMANA, CLARECASTLE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

€575,000

LE SA

LE SA

€295,000

€695,000

R

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CLON ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

DOONAGORE, DOOLIN, CO. CLARE

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FO €179,000

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SA 6 FISHERMAN’S COTTAGES, QUERRIN, KILKEE, CO. CLARE

DONNYBROOK, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE, V95V403

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Property

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€595,000

DRUM NA CON, KILRUSH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE,

€349,000

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20

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

West Clare

Irish artist creates free Palestine sand message outside Trump’s Doonbeg Resort

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

AN Irish environmental artist has used the sands of Doughmore Strand in County Clare as a canvas for a political message aimed directly at U.S. President DonaldTrump.

Sean Corcoran, known for his large-scale sand art installations, created a 350-foot-wide message that read: “FREE PALESTINE”, etched in 40-foot-tall letters in front of Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg.

Corcoran was assisted by artists James Corcoran Hodgins and Caoláin Power. The work, which took approximately four and a half hours to complete, was designed to remain hidden for most of its creation.

“It did take about four and a half hours,” Corcan explained while talking to the Clare Echo about the project. “We didn’t want it to be visible what we were drawing for as long as possible, because obviously it’s for some people it might be seen as a sensitive subject. It wasn’t until the last half an hour, literally, that we used the rakes to fill in the letters that had been outlined.”

The message last week was a direct response to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and a broader plea

for political accountability and action.

“I couldn’t just stand by while these atrocities are being carried out. Like so many of us I’ve felt helpless for the last few months. I’d like to be on the right side of history.”

Corcoran is a self-taught artist and has been working professionally since 1985. Over the past 40 years Corcoran has been involved in innumerable projects across a wide range of mediums. He has also hosted multiple solo exhibitions of his work across Ireland, the UK and the USA. Corcoran chose Doonbeg, directly behind Trump’s luxury resort as his location deliberately to get his message to President Trump and to reach as wide an audience as possible.

“I chose the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg, County Clare as a poignant location for the installation. I thought I would use the privilege I am afforded in this democracy, to voice my opinion right next to Donald Trump’s lavish golf course in Ireland.”

“Our whole intention is that we are sending a message to Donald Trump.”

Corcoran emphasised that his protest was rooted in peace and respect, particularly toward the local

community in Clare. He expressed his gratitude for their vocal support of the Palestinian cause.

“People in Clare have been brilliant about supporting the pro-Palestinian movement, they’re out with the Palestinian flags and they’re supporting the peaceful protests.”

While the large-scale message was carved into the public beach

adjacent to the golf course, Corcoran was mindful not to alarm or provoke the site’s private security.

He further distanced the protest from any form of aggression or vandalism, stating clearly: “I know that the golf course has been subject to vandalism, which I totally disagree with. You

lFREE PALESTINE: Sand mural on Doughmore beach [inset image: Sean Corcran, James Corcoran Hodgins and Caoláin Power]

know, if you’re sending a message to somebody, vandalising the front garden isn’t the way to do it. This is a peaceful protest. I’m thankful to live in a true democracy, where freedom of speech is valued, and we’ve used that freedom of speech to send a peaceful message to the President [of America].”

Despite the protest’s high-profile location, Corcoran reiterated that it was not a boycott or an attack on the resort.

“I’m not trying to put anybody’s life on the line in terms of you know a lot of people are employed by the golf course. I have not called for a boycott of Trump International, Golf Hotel and Lynx. I’m not going for a boycott, this is simply a peaceful protest to send a message to the president of America” “I believe a turning point has been reached and politicians will need to start responding to growing public outrage. The USA and other countries need to stop supporting Israel. We all need to insist on a Ceasefire. Do the right thing Donald Trump.”

June blooms and fathers day flowers JUNE blooms are in everyones garden and now its time to enjoy and keep the plants happy by deadheading and regular feeding of your plants.

We also have a very important day this Sunday. June 15 is Father’s Day, a day to celebrate our role models and show our appreciation.

As always, we can personalise gifts and we have a selection of planters made up ready for collection.

Some others idea for you are Acer Trees. we have a lovely selection of sizes in stock and they can be dressed up in nice ceramic pot to make a lovely gift.

You could also get a trough or pot full of perennials that come back each year and just give a great show of colour.

Or maybe the father in your life would like a beautiful Adare Stone Lighthouse that can be lit up at

night with a candle and give a lovely glow and is stunning peace to add to any garden. The Adare stone Owl is a hoot, again a beautiful addition to the garden. Roses always make a stunning gift idea from the selection of climbing roses to the many varieties of Hybrid teas like Arthur Bell. Red roses are always a favourite and the Trumpeter is a popular one.

With lots to choose from and lots of ideas on our Facebook page call in and we can help you choose the perfect gift.

A little reminder to continue checking perennial and deadheading some of the long flowering ones like Astilbe are starting to open and some of the daisy like flowers like the Helenium’s are just starting to open these are great to show colour well into the autumn.

When doing beds borders or pots it’s nice to add something different

like a grass that can give you a flowing effect.

The cordylines are another lovely feature piece and they come in some striking colours like reds and Charlie boy is a lovely pink one, sometimes leaf colour can be as important.

The Heuchera are another shrub with lots of colour mainly bought for to add wines or reds to an area, the contrast is quite nice so there are always way to add a pop to enhance an area and give it that pop effect.

Now also this week we are having our summer sale this weekend from Thursday to Sunday we have 20%off all our trees and shrub and our selection of perennial. So, if you have an area that you wanted too add a few more bits why not pop in and see what’s on offer THIS WEEKEND ONLY SUMMER SALE 20% off

21

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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Ennis

Clarecastle regatta returns with a full day of family fun THE much-anticipated Clarecastle Regatta is set to return on Sunday, 22nd June 2025, promising a spectacular day of family entertainment down at the quay from 1:30pm until evening.

This year’s regatta offers something for everyone, with continuous music throughout the day, vintage car display, market stalls, curragh race, boat rides, hanging tough, face painting and a variety of food ensuring no one goes hungry.

Traditional favourites return including the popular bonny baby competition (for babies 18mths and under), best dressed lady contest, and glamorous granny competition.

The excitement doesn’t stop there - we have some new additions for 2025, including an amusement area located at the New Quay, offering additional entertainment options for the kids. Water enthusiasts can enjoy scenic boat rides aboard the

dolphin watch boat, providing a unique perspective of the beautiful Quay.

The beloved raft race makes its triumphant return this year with participants competing for their share of an impressive €500 total prize pot. These crowd-favorite water events promise plenty of excitement and friendly competition. En-

tries are free by contacting Paul on 0872028407.

Entry to the regatta is free, though donations are warmly welcomed at the gate to help support this community event.

Organisers encourage everyone to bring their families and friends for what promises to be an unforgettable day by the water.

lFAMILY FUN: Clarecastle regatta 2024

O’Gorman’s Café Serves Residents Visitors and the Ennis Community O’Gorman’s Café is a vital part of life here at Cahercalla, offering residents a sense of independence and a welcome break from their daily routine. It’s like “a little outing” for them, and it plays an important role in their social lives. We’re also delighted to now expand this high-quality service to the wider public, offering breakfasts, lunches, homemade treats, teas, and coffees in a warm and welcoming environment.

As we celebrate Cahercalla’s 30th anniversary, we’re excited to see O’Gorman’s Café becoming a comfortable meeting point for the Ennis community, where people can enjoy nutritious and delicious food in a relaxed setting. It’s a unique facility that not only benefits our residents but also provides a space for visitors and the public to connect.

I’ve been with Cahercalla for the past 15 months, and during that time, I’ve seen the café grow significantly. When I first joined as a café supervisor, the café had been closed due to COVID-19, and it was operating on a very basic level. Since then, we’ve worked hard to expand and develop it into the vibrant space it is today.

The café originally opened in 2014 as part of a €3.5 million refurbishment at Cahercalla. It’s located in the beautifully renovated O’Gorman House, adjacent to the main building, and features state-ofthe-art kitchen facilities. It’s a wonderful resource for our residents, who love coming down with their visitors to enjoy a coffee or a meal. For them, it’s like going out for

a coffee shop experience, and they truly cherish that sense of normalcy and independence.

We’re also proud to serve the public with a range of offerings, including hot breakfasts, lunches, sandwiches, soups, and pastries. It’s a space where staff, residents, and visitors alike can come together, and it’s become a real hub of activity and connection.

For our residents, the café is more than just a place to eat—it’s a social lifeline. It allows them to step away from their usual routine and enjoy a change of scenery. Not many nursing homes have a facility like this, and it’s something that really sets Cahercalla apart. It’s a joy to see how much the residents love coming here. Even our staff prefer meeting here rather than in the canteen because of the warm and inviting atmosphere.

Over the past year, I’ve built strong relationships with many of our residents.

They’ve become like family to me. They know me, and I know them—their preferences, how they take their tea, even which cup they like. It’s that personal touch that makes the café feel like home for them.

Sometimes, I bring my little girl in, and the residents absolutely love seeing her.

It’s moments like these that make working here so special. Cahercalla is a wonderful place to work, and I’m proud to be part of a team that values the well-being and happiness of our residents so deeply.

22

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

East Clare

Sailing Club wins Scariff RFC plan for Cullaun ‘Club of the Year’ award all-weather pitch & padel facility

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

SCARIFF RFC have been granted planning permission for a new all-weather pitch and padel facility at their grounds in Fossabeg.

Both developments were lodged by the East Clare rugby club last summer with Clare County Council initially requesting further information.

In its application, Scariff RFC refers to itself as “The home of rugby in East Clare”.

The club competes in the Munster Junior Division 2.

Munster and Ireland scrumhalf Craig Casey opened a new €250,000 indoor training facility at the club in 2024 in a landmark day since the club’s founding in 1963.

The local authority expressed concern that the development could lead to an increase in traffic in the form of pedestrian and cycle activity. The cited the

lack of a footpath nearby as a potential traffic hazard for the site. The local authority also highlighted potential problems arising from light spillage due to the proposed floodlighting.

The planner’s report stated that “the footpath and lighting networks in the town do not extend as far as the proposed development site, endangering pedestrians and cyclists who utilise both the existing and proposed facilities at the club”.

Scariff RFC responded however and said that a footpath would be constructed running to the entrance of their property. The rugby club also stated that the planned floodlighting would be directed in order to avoid glare on adjacent properties.

The floodlighting has been ordered to operate between 7am and 10pm only in order to reduce light pollution in the area.

The planning department

lALL-WEATHER &PADEL: Scariff RFC

has granted permission for the all weather pitch and the padel court. Padel Tennis or Padel is a racket sport of Mexican origin and is played in over 90 countries around the world. The sport combines elements of squash and tennis and is played by the likes of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and David Beckham. It has been described as the fastest growing sport in the world with a facility opening in Limerick in January.

The proposed padel court will be located at the right hand side of the clubhouse and will overlook the new all-weather pitch.

Neither development can commence until the footpath is constructed. Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) has made a submission supporting the development.

Cullaun Sailing Club has been awarded the prestigious “Club of the Year” title by the Irish Sailing Association. The award was presented at a ceremony in Dublin earlier this year.

To celebrate this achievement, the club is hosting a special Try Sailing event and has extended an open invitation to the public.

Visitors will have the opportunity to try sailing alongside experienced club members in one of the club boats on Saturday, 14 June from 15:00. Guests are welcome to visit the club, view its setup, and learn more about the activities that take place there on a weekly basis.

Also in attendance will be world-famous sailor Pat Lawless, a Golden Globe Race

entrant for 2026. He will speak about his ambition to complete a solo, non-stop, unassisted round-the-world 30,000-mile race using only the technology that was available in 1968, when the race was first completed.

He will also discuss how sailing has shaped his life from an early age.

Cullaun Sailing Club remains an active and engaged club. Last weekend, it hosted the GP14 Dinghy Fleet’s Munster Championships, with twenty-six boats from across Ireland competing for the title. Colman Grimes and Ross Gingles from Skerries Sailing Club won the overall prize. Cullaun sailors Des McMahon and Pat Biesty won the Bronze Fleet award.

lCLUB OF THE YEAR: Left to right -Club Commodore, Jim O’Sullivan presents prizes to the overall winners; Ross Gingles and Colman Grimes of the GP14 Munster Championships 2025, held at Cullaun Sailing Club, Kilkishen

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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Regional News

23

East Clare

Shannon Airport heralded by Ryanair as one of fastest growing airports

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

RYANAIR have heralded Shannon Airport as one of the fastest growing airports across their network.

Operating flights to 240 airports across Europe, Ryanair has pinpointed the growth of Shannon Airport’s capacity as a big success following its decision to add three new routes and to base a fourth aircraft in Co Clare.

As part of its winter schedule, Ryanair has boosted its operation at Shannon with flights to Madrid, Madeira and Lapland plus enhanced capacity on six of its existing routes.

Chief Commercial Officer with Ryanair, Jason McGuinness told The Clare Echo, “Ryanair is going to grow its Shannon capacity by twenty percent, we’re adding three new routes to Madrid, Madeira and Lapland and also increasing frequencies on six other popular routes. The Ryanair network is growing by three percent at the minute so twenty percent in Shannon at the minute makes it the fastest growing airport in the Ryanair network and I think it demonstrates our commitment to growth in regional Ireland. We’ve doubled the amount of seats we’re offering in the Irish regional airports pre and post COVID, we will continue to grow in regional Ireland”.

On the impact of an additional aircraft in Shannon, he explained, “It will result in thirty direct jobs for pilots and cabin crew but then

there’s the knock-on benefits in additional engineers, maintenance so this morning’s announcement for direct and indirect jobs will add 200 to 250 jobs to the local area here in Shannon”.

Should Shannon continue to see demand for its services, Ryanair will be forced to add more routes and enhance existing services, he admitted. “It is a circle, we are sensible, our mantra is load factor active yield capacity, we do need bums on seats so the people in the area do

need to support the airport and if we see demand is strong and load factor is good then we will continue to add capacity here and continue to add routes and more importantly continue to add frequency on existing routes. We’ve a double daily service to London now, there’s a daily service to Manchester, if the local community continue to support the airport we will continue to grow”.

Of frustration to the airline has been the manner in which the Irish

SHANNON AIRPORT: Jason McGuinness

Government has ignored their growth plans submitted last year.

“We’re proud to be Irish but we’re a pan-European airline, I’m dealing with Governments right across Europe, I was in Poland last week meeting Krakow Airport and the regional Government there who are keen for growth. Krakow Airport has ten million passengers and they plan to double it to twenty million over the next five years so there’s enormous demand for Ryanair capacity across Europe, I would like

being Irish and being proud to be Irish we’d like to allocate as much capacity as we can to Ireland but if we’re not getting responses there’s enormous demand across the rest of Europe for Ryanair capacity”.

He continued, “we would be frequently dealing with Governments, some request growth plans from us and we meet with Governments to discuss how we can grow capacity.

In the last three weeks, I’ve been in Poland, Albania and Bulgaria, all are very keen to grow capacity and the difference in those countries particularly in Central and Eastern Europe is their capacity is much less than what we have here in Ireland but they have very large populations so they are very keen for growth. We would like to get a reply from the Irish Government to our growth plan, if they don’t there’s plenty of other countries who want Ryanair capacity”.

“Politicians are generally the same across Europe, some are generally more engaged than others, I think it is a little bit slower here in Ireland, take for instance the new government has almost six months of their term done and we still have the issue of the Dublin cap, I would say Irish politicians are a little bit slower than their counterparts particularly in Central and Eastern Europe where those countries are keen to drive their economies, drive economic growth and connectivity to help their small and medium sized businesses,” McGuinness commented.

West Clare academic shortlisted for Regional Teaching Excellence Award at ceremony hosted in Shannon

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

TECHNILOGICAL University of Shannon hosted the awards ceremony for the 2024/25 Regional Teaching Excellence Awards where a West Clare academic was shortlisted.

Dr Síle Ní Choincheannain a Lecturer in Education with expertise in Irish in Mary Immacualte College’s Department of Language and Literacy Education has been recognised for her outstanding commitment to higher education teaching.

The awards ceremony was held on 28 May at the Millennium Theatre, located on the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) campus in Shannon.

Speaking about her nomination, Dr Ní Choincheannain said:

“Is mór an onóir an t-ainmniúchán seo don RTEA dom. Tá an mhúinteoireacht go smior ionam agus ba shármhúinteoir mo mháthair a dhein a dícheall ar son na bpáistí a bhí os a comhair i gcónaí. Déanaim iarracht an rud céanna a dhéanamh do mhic léinn Choláiste Mhuire gan Smál. Mol an óige agus tiocfaidh sí.”

“It’s a genuine honour to be nominated for the RTEA. Teaching is in my blood, and my late mother was a superb teacher who always did her best for the children she taught. I try to do the same for the students of MIC. Praise youth and she will flourish.”

SHORTLISTED: Dr Síle Ní Choincheannain

24

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

North Clare

‘People want their visit to mean something - at Aillwee Burren Experience, it does’

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

A BELOVED landmark of Clare and Irish tourism, Aillwee Burren Experience is far more than a single attraction.

Managing Director and second-generation to Aillwee’s co-founders, Nuala Mulqueeney is passionate about making this clear: “It’s not just Aillwee Cave. It’s the cave tour, the Birds of Prey Centre, the cheesemaking – it’s the full experience.”

Her mission is to reframe how both locals and tourists perceive this remarkable site, which has grown into a multi-faceted experience that showcases the best of local nature, food, and tradition.

40 YEARS OF CHEESEMAKING At the core of the Aillwee Burren Experience is a cheesemaking legacy that spans four decades.

“Forty years of cheesemaking is no mean feat,” says Nuala. The cheese is produced on-site using milk sourced exclusively from a local farm: “It’s the same milk from the farmers up in Caherconnell – the Davoren family. It’s a story that just keeps going.”

The cheesemaking process is traditional and immersive. Visitors can view the production through a glass-fronted area in the farm shop and watch as curds are cut and moulds filled.

“Always around 12 to 2 o’clock, that’s when the action starts,” explains Nuala. From there, the cheese is pressed, salted, waxed, and matured – all under one roof.

This year, the team welcomed a second cheesemaker, Luca, from northern Italy, reflecting the growing demand and compressed production window due to changing weather.

“We only make cheese when the cows are fully out on grass,” Nuala explains. “A wet spring means a shorter season, so we brought Luca on for the busy months.”

A variety of cheeses are produced, primarily based on a traditional Gouda-style recipe.

“It’s a semi-hard cheese

l Cheesemaker Luca hard at work and (right)

Joanna offering The Clare Echo a bite; (centre right) Aillwee’s Nuala Mulqueeny and Tracy Lynch; (bottom) the Birds of Prey display

– great for slicing and melting,” she notes.

Popular flavours include cumin seed, black pepper, smoked, and the ever-popular garlic and nettle. “People love tasting the difference between a young cheese and one that’s been maturing for one or two years.”

50 YEARS OF AILLWEE CAVE The cave system offers a thrilling journey into Ireland’s ancient underground world. Situated within the Burren’s limestone terrain, it’s the perfect destination for school tours looking to combine education and adventure. The caves boast a geological history stretching over 330 million years, where visitors can explore winding passages, impressive caverns, and even an underground waterfall, while learning about the region’s prehistoric past.

Looking ahead, 2026 will mark 50 years since Aillwee Cave first opened to the public.

“We officially opened in October 1976, but tours started in July that year,” recalls Nuala. “So we’re planning a year-long celebration, with a big party in October.”

The milestone brings a moment of reflection.

“We’ve had our ups and downs. Our managing director Nicky Johnson

died suddenly in 2019 – it left a big rift. But my mum and dad, who were among the original owners, are still with us. It’s a mighty legacy I have the privilege of carrying on.”

The evolution of Aillwee from a single-site cave tour into a yearround, multi-attraction experience embodies a philosophy of regenerative tourism. “We’ve been doing that for 50 years,” Nuala says. “We didn’t put names on it then, but we’ve always aimed to give back to the land and the local community.”

SUPPORTING LOCAL EMPLOYMENT A key part of Aillwee’s mission has always been local employment. Depending on the season, the attraction employs between 35 and 85 staff.

“We’ve had 13 different nationalities working here at one point,” Nuala reflects. “We even ran our own staff bus and housing. That was 25 years ago, but the same challenges exist today, especially for skilled workers like cheesemakers and falconers.”

Retaining skilled staff remains a challenge due to limited housing availability in the area.

“We’re doing everything we can. Luca’s got accommodation until September, but we’re

working on longer-term options. These are people bringing valuable skills.”

Nuala recalls how, two decades ago, they tackled the lack of childcare by opening their own crèche. “We had no choice – we needed to hold on to our good staff,” she explains.

Today, many of those ‘crèche babies’ have returned to work at Aillwee, continuing the story.

BIRDS OF PREY AND BIODIVERSITY Aillwee’s Birds of Prey Centre adds another dimension to the visitor experience. “We’ve over 16 species of raptor here,” says Nuala.

From eagles and owls to falcons and hawks, the centre offers daily flying displays and educational talks, showcasing the

importance of wildlife conservation.

It’s a rare and intimate opportunity for visitors to learn about these majestic birds up close. “It’s hugely popular,” Nuala notes. “And again, it’s about the whole experi-

ence – not just ticking boxes, but making a connection to nature.”

Speaking about the Aillwee Burren Experience as a truly special tourism experience for international and local visitors, Nuala adds,

“People want something tangible. They want to know where their food comes from. They want to meet the people behind it. They want to feel that their visit means something – and here, it does.”

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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Boy (12) fell over the edge of Cliffs of Moher

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 12-YEAR old boy lost his balance after slipping in a puddle close to the edge of the Cliffs of Moher before falling over the edge to his death, an inquest has heard.

In eye-witness testimony at the Clare coroner’s court into the accidental death of Zhihan Zhao at the Cliffs of Moher on July 23 last, French tourist, Marion Tourgon described seeing Zhihan fall over the edge at around 1.45pm on the day.

Zhihan had set out on walking the Cliffs of Moher trail from Hags Head on the Liscannor side or southern side of the Cliffs of Moher to the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre with his mother, Xianhong Huang and her friends.

The two Chinese nationals had arrived in Ireland only twelve days previous on July 11th. Last year, 1.49m people visited the Cliffs of Moher making it Ireland’s most popular natural attraction.

In her deposition, Ms Huang said that Zhihan was walking ahead of her on the Cliffs of Moher trail and she lost sight of him.

Speaking through an interpreter at the inquest in Kilrush, Co Clare, Ms Huang wiping away tears, asked, “What exactly caused Zhihan to fall from the Cliffs?”

Clare County Coroner, Isobel O’Dea told the distraught Ms Huang that the evidence of Ms Tourgon would help answer that question.

lFALL ACCIDENT: Cliffs of Moher

In her deposition Ms Tourgon said that she was at the edge of the Cliffs of Moher with her husband and two children at around 1.45pm.

She said that they were taking a selfie when she saw a young Asian boy, who was alone, come into view.

She said, “I saw him slipping in the puddle that appears in the photo that my husband sent to the police”.

Ms Tourgon said, “His right foot slipped into the puddle with him trying to stop himself from falling with his left foot but his left foot ended up in the air”.

She said, “It was very quick - he found himself in an awkward position with his left foot in a void over the cliff and his right knee on the edge of the cliff ”.

Ms Tourgon said, “His right knee eventually fell into the void over the cliff and he was trying to grasp the grass with his hands to pull himself up.

He didn’t shout and there was no noise”.

She said that “it is the only the few of us who saw him falling” and the Tourgons alerted the emergency services by phone.

Speaking again through an interpreter, Ms Huang asked “did he slip?” and in reply, Insp Helen Costello told her, “It appears from the witness that he slipped into the void having stumbled in the puddle.”

In her deposition, Ms Huang said that she started out from Nagle’s car park in Liscannor to walk to the Cliffs

of Moher with Zhihan and friends of hers.

She said, “My son walked very fast and was ahead of us by 50 metres”.

She said, “As there was only one path I thought we would meet him along the way.

When I didn’t I walked to the visitor centre and I checked the visitor centre”.

When she couldn’t find her son here, she walked back along the path to search for her son and after not finding him, she reported him missing.

She said that she last saw Zhihan at 1pm that day. She said that Zhihan was a fluent English speaker and described the clothes that Zhihan was wearing that day including black shorts, Nike Air Jordans, an LA Lakers wristband and a kid’s smartwatch.

Sgt Claire McGuigan said that on the day, Ms Huang was able to provide a photo of Zhihan she had taken earlier on the Cliffs of Moher trail.

Garda Colm Collins said that he received a call that day at 2pm to attend the Cliffs of Moher after a male was seen falling off the cliff edge.

He said that the Irish Coastguard had spotted a body floating in the water at the base of the Cliffs of Moher.

Through the interpreter, the mother asked was the location the same spot where scenes from a Harry Potter movie were shot and Insp Costello said that they were not.

Garda Collins said that a lifeboat was launched but the

craft was not able to access the site where the body was spotted due to the sea conditions.

Zhihan’s body would not be recovered from the sea for another five days and was recovered after fisherman, Matthew O’Halloran from Corofin, Co Clare spotted a body facedown and arms extended in the water between Doolin and the Aran Islands shortly after 10am on Sunday, July 28.

Mr O’Halloran alerted the Irish coastguard at Valentia and members of the Doolin unit of the Irish coastguard retrieved Zhihan’s body from the waters and brought it ashore at Doolin.

Ms O’Dea said that the post mortem found that Zhihan died from multiple traumatic injuries consistent with a fall from a height.

Ms O’Dea said her verdict was one of “accidental death”.

She said, “It is clear from evidence we heard that Zhihan slipped off the Cliffs rather than any other way. His death would have been very quick – instantaneous”.

Ms O’Dea told Ms Huang “I can’t imagine how upsetting this is for you” and the two embraced as Ms Huang left the coroner’s court in Kilrush.

Ms O’Dea also extended her sympathies to Zhihan’s father who was not present at the inquest.

Addressing Ms Huang, Insp Costello said, “The pain must be immeasurable for you all”.

Ms Huang declined to comment on the record when approached for comment after the inquest.

On August 22 of last year, the Clare Local Development Company closed off large sections of part of the Cliffs of Moher trail and it remains closed off today due to continuing safety concerns.

At the time, the Clare Local Development Company confirmed that it was taking the action following the two recent fatal accidents on the Cliffs of Moher trail.

In May 2024, a young woman died after she fell from the Cliffs of Moher. She was in her early 20s and a college student from Belgium who was studying in Scotland.

Regional News

Creative Keys Piano Studio hosts successful 2025 summer concert

CREATIVE Keys Piano Studio Annual Summer Concert 2025 was held last Sunday in Crusheen Community Centre.

The concert was a huge success, the hall was fully packed, and the 2-hour concert featured 13 student performances, 2 Crusheen Youth Choir performances, and lots of games, sing-alongs, etc.

As usual, the event was free, while we were fundraising for Crusheen Tidy Village, a great local volunteer organization to support their amazing work, making Crusheen a cleaner, nicer place.

Also, we were fundraising for more Christmas Lights, so this year, Crusheen will be brightened up for Christmas! A fantastic amount of money was raised!

Students from Creative Keys Piano studio (age 6 to 45) performed 27 tunes, including traditional tunes, classical pieces, movie theme songs, jazz standards, and pop songs.

I performed multiple tunes myself, playing lots of games, like “guess the tune”, when a little part of a wellknown song is played and the audience tries to guess it right.

We had multiple brilliant moments, my favourite was one of the Guess the tune games, the tune was the well-known old country song “You Are My Sunshine”, which turned into a huge sing-along, the whole hall, like a huge choir, was singing together. It was such an uplifting moment.

The brilliant Crusheen Youth Choir joined us this time, and we were performing 2 beautiful tunes together, “True Colors” from the movie Trolls (originally Cyndi Lauper), and “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” from Elton John (Lion King movie theme song).

We were working together with the choir in the past 3 months to learn and practice these 2 tunes, I am so grateful to Nicola and Aisling, and the full choir for the opportunity to work together; it was such a great experience.

Clodagh, our soloist in the choir, elevated both performances with her beautiful voice.

All students received their certification and gifts after the performances.

All the hard work did pay off, and it was such a fantastic event.

The event was organized by Tom Chernel, music educator, piano teacher, and the founder of Creative Keys Piano Studio

lSUMMER CONCERT: Tom Chernel from Creative Keys Piano Studio with the Youth Choir and musical school students

26

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Galway heritage gets a digital makeover

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SIX of Galway’s historic civil parishes are stepping into the digital age with the launch of an innovative project that turns local heritage into interactive online StoryMaps.

In a major collaboration between Galway County Council, University of Galway, Galway County Heritage Forum, The Heritage Council, and community heritage groups, the rich histories of Stradbally (Clarinbridge), Monivea, Moylough, Moycullen, Gort, and Loughrea have been meticulously researched and digitally transformed.

Officially launched this week at a special event in Áras an Chontae, the project brings together traditional townland research and historical records in a newly digitised format. Drawing on rich sources such as O’Donovan’s Ordnance Survey Letters, Griffith’s Valuation, the Down Survey, and the 1901 and 1911 censuses, the initiative makes these valuable archives more accessible than ever.

The initiative is powered by the work of University of Galway students Carlos Grace, Giada Solito, Liam Flaherty, and Laura Daly.

Over the past year, they have worked in close partnership with local communities and Galway County Council’s Heritage Office and GIS Department, unearthing stories, local lore, and forgotten histories that now live on through this accessible and engaging digital format.

The research has been digitised for townlands in the six parishes,

while immersive digital StoryMaps have been created for Loughrea, Moylough, Moycullen, and Gort.

Combining the latest mapping technology with text, images, and multimedia content, the StoryMaps tell powerful location-based stories accessible from any internet-enabled device with a web browser, including tablets and phones.

Cllr Martina Kinane, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, expressed her enthusiasm for the project: “The launch marks a significant milestone in how local his-

tory is preserved and shared. With an eye on Galway’s global diaspora and future generations, the project is a powerful example of how technology and tradition can converge to deepen our understanding of place.”

“As we navigate the digital landscape, we honour the traditions of the past while embracing the opportunities of the future,” she added. “Through these StoryMaps, we invite you to immerse yourselves in the essence of our townlands, towns, and villages, to witness the

evolution of time reflected in the fields, roads, and streets we walk, and the buildings, landscapes, and structures we admire.”

Dr. Lisa Walshe, Assistant Professor of Political Science and Sociology at the University of Galway, commended the students’ efforts: “It has been a privilege for our university to collaborate with Galway County Council on this initiative, which highlights the rich heritage of Galway County through innovative student research. This partnership exemplifies the value of ac-

lDIGITAL MAKEOVER: University of Galway students Carlos Grace, Laura Daly, Giada Solito, and Liam Flaherty pictured at the launch of a new digital StoryMap project in Áras an Chontae Credit Seán Lydon

ademic and civic engagement, and I commend our students for their dedication, creativity, and commitment to preserving and sharing our local history. Together, we are helping to deepen public appreciation of Galway’s unique cultural landscape.”

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said: “The accomplishments of these outstanding students and their significant contributions to preserving and promoting the heritage of Galway County are immense. Their efforts exemplify the power of collaboration and the necessity of investing in future generations.”

Marie Mannion, Heritage Officer of Galway County Council, highlighted the collaborative nature of the initiative: “This project is a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in our future generations.

The dedication and passion of the students, combined with the support of our local communities and the expertise of the Heritage Office and GIS Department, have brought this initiative to life.”

There are over 64,000 townlands in Ireland of which there are in the region of 4,556 in County Galway, Ireland’s second largest county.

Almost half of the County’s townlands have so far been digitised as part of the ‘Galway County Heritage Trails’ project.

The Townland Research is available at www.tinyurl.com/townland, while the StoryMaps may be viewed at www.tinyurl.com/StoryMapGalway.

New dual art exhibition to open in Kinvara

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

An Irish artist and a Ukranian artist have come together to create an exhibition which explores the ideas of connection, displacement, nature and the universal nature of creative expression.

Hosted by KAVA Art Centre, the dual exhibition entitled; breaking borders opens in The Old Courthouse, Kinvara on June 13 and will run daily from 11am to 5pm until June 22.

Liubov Karpova is a watercolour painter born in Ukraine. Liubov is a graduate of the National Academy of Fine Arts and Architecture (NAOMA) in Kiev. As an artist and architect, her work blends structured architectural elements with the fluidity of emotional expression.

She moved to Ireland to escape the political unrest in Ukraine. It

was after leaving her homeland that Liubov returned to her original artistic passion, watercolor painting.

Her paintings often delve into the themes of memory, transformation and a search for belonging.

Pauline Dunleavy is a contemporary Irish artist based in Kilrush.

Pauline draws her inspiration from living on Ireland’s west coast western Irish. Influenced by her time as a RNLI lifeboat crew member and station manager, Pauline’s art is infused with a deep connection to the sea and a keen sensitivity to the changing seasons.

As an active member of the Kilrush Art Group and a passionate advocate for sharing artistic knowledge.

Although their styles and origins differ, both artists share the belief that art is a way to transcend boundaries, process experience, and celebrate nature’s quiet power.

lBREAKING BORDERS: KAVA Art Centre Kinvara

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

24

Columnists

27

Thursday, May 8, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Contributors

Thought for the week: cherishing life Spreading the word of positivity

love, prayers and compassion daily, RONAN as small SCULLY gestures can have a HILDREN, significant especially impact. We toddlers, all have the embody a capacity to love, prayers unique enthushare love and compassiasm for life that often and sionsupport daily, RONAN seems to fade as we one another. as small SCULLY grow older.

As we navgestures and I to be where we are today. My To my Dad, Ricey, thank you Their days are filled igate tough can have a for dad has modeled what it looks like all the things you’ve ledlet’s me and with joy andHILDREN, excitement, significant times, especially and they approach impact.

We choose to put the Lord first before any- my siblings through andlove taught RONAN toddlers, alldo. have each new day with a over fear thing else. Of course my dad isn’t us and continue to Ththe rough embody a capacity to the sense of wonder.

Unlike standme SCULLY perfect, because no one is, but I and through you’veand shown unique forenthushare love and us adults, children solidarity honour and respect his pursuit of ropes. Helping me in in anything siasm for life thatlittle, often limited should motivate andthose support give easily, worry with in to take up one’s cross God and the wisdom he has given everything I face.

Everyday you’re Father’s Day aasspecial occasion seems to fade we one another. and find joy inissimple need.

Together, we can us to appreciate every andand follow a gives meaningful me over the years still there for me by simply calling that invites the in- as life can grow older.us to celebrate moment, Ascompaswe navpleasures. create a more The essence lies to this day.path. is nei- and your name.

Daddy, ifDuring you end up Theirremind days fathers are credible role in our in to igate tough They us filledplay change sionate world. an me instant inMy howDad we embrace ther an anchor tocherish hold meour and my readingchallenging this at some point, with joy and excitement, let’s of the It’s importance ofwith gratitude, times, it’sI love lives. aday filled as I and my family experiences and in they approach love back, norand a sail to takeour us jouryou. With all of your amazingness living thehonor moment important to choose appreciate where we not just our wellbioknow!!siblings I believe navigate each new dayour with aalso grandfaover and cherishing life and the well-being there, but a guiding lightis whose you fear are a man in valuing friendships, ney. Life inherentlyand imperfections, logical fathers, butlife sensefather of wonder. and stand experiences. of others.

Reflect on love us thefragile, way. Th e the occaI look up to, a man I am proud to family, andshows seizing and awarethers, fiReflecting guresUnlike and even sin-love, usmy adults, children forin solidarity on own experiences your circumstances and opportunities.

Most ness of our mortality sion of Father’s Day is special for call my dad, a man I look forward gle mothers who have stepped into givemy easily, worry little, with those in with two daughters, recognize the struggles limited should motivate to take up one’s cross importantly, I of believe ina timecan inspire us to live all us.

It’s to love, kiss and to learning more about as the years that role. and find simple need.by Together, we can I recall thejoy joyinthey exfaced those less us to appreciate every andprecious follow a cremeaningful cherishing life itself in the all most each day fully.

Recoghug one of progress, a man with heart As we prepare for this heartfelt pleasures. create a more compaspressed each morning, fortunate. Emphasize and as life can path. that The tomorrow essence lies itsmoment, fullness.ations nizing is that of God our Dad! Especialsoul Iimportance loveworld. dearly.During day, let’s take a moment to refl ect They remind us sionate jumping out of bed with of Uncondicomchange in an instant in how we embrace and the guaranteed encourCONSTANT ly CHANGE for those of usnot lucky enough to tionally!

Rarely do I get toit’sthank theand importance of and wisdom challenging times, onof the lessons, love, smiles excitement passion and gratitude, as I and my family cherish our experiences ages us to cherish our Life is characterized living in the moment stillI believe have them with us. you enough.

So on this special day, important to appreciate for the day ahead.

This with well urging each other to our fathers have shared us. know!! and navigate our jourmoments and make the by constant change and our life about life and well-being I do exactly that.the made me why support, pray and in valuing friendships, ney.

Life is inherently Thischerishing dayponder is not just gift s most of our time.

Each and movement.

It is for Father’s Day Thought experiences.

Reflecting ofyou others.

Reflect on adults often lose that uplift one another.

In family, love, seizing day fragile, and the aware-Thank Ricey for being my presents a new and celebrations; it’s an opportunioften easier toand emAs your thought for Father’s on my ownWhen experiences your circumstances andFazest for life. did moments of fear, love, opportunities.

Most ness of our mortality Dad and to all Dad’s, Happy opportunity to engage tywith to express our appreciation for brace and cherish life Day,I believe make your the most myappreciating two daughters, recognize the struggles we stop prayers and connection importantly, in dad canfeel inspire us to live with life, to dance ther’s Day. I by love you Daddy! the sacrifi ces they’ve made and thecircumstances when I recall the theyday? exfaced thosewhen less special maninin worldday by showthe beauty ofjoy each are vital, even cherishing life itself allthethrough each fully.

Recogour experiencTh ank you, thank you, thank you align with our dreams, strength they’ve shown.

Fathers pressed each morning, fortunate.

Emphasize Time, and life is indeed closeness is ing your care, love and that affthan ection. its fullness. nizing tomorrow is you.physical es rather merelyfor I’mpossible. so grateful for my Dad feelings of nurture us, oftof enbed putting needs to To jumping out with ourleading the importance of comprecious, and we should not Cherish not guaranteed care for thoseendure who once cared them.

It isencourvital CONSTANT CHANGE success in our personal and for the other father-like figsmiles and excitement passion and gratitude, before own, and their presstrive totheir cherish each every moment you’re ages us to cherish our on honour lives for us lives. is one of to thereflect highest Life is characterized and professional ures that have selfl essly supported for the day ahead.

This urging each other to ence can signifi cantly shape our moment with gratitude moments and the given, for life moves ensure thatmake we are by constant ors.change We all knowand how our parents However, challenges made why Engaged support, pray and these me life.than Nevertheless, and joy.me ponder most of our time.

Each faster we realize. emotional well-being. not held back by fear or in my and during movement.

It is us over cared for the years and arise moments adults often lose that uplift one another.

In earthly role models and mentors day presents a new Take a pause, look fathers foster confi dence and reregret.

Asthat we age, the easier tous emMAKE THE BEST OF IT ofoften struggle, uncertaingave every little thing we zest for life.

When did moments of fear, love, opportunity to engage around, and truly apserve to make me aware that there importance of infusing silience inappreciating their children, teaching and cherish life Love As stop adults, we often ty,brace and unhappiness. ever needed. them, respect we prayers andpeople, connection with life,with to dance preciate the the is a heavenly Father whose proviour lives meaning when circumstances forget the importance of them essential values like respect us with the beauty of each day? Life presents are vital, even when them, and acare for them. Most of through our experiencand the entire becomes even moredential experiences, align withof our dreams, grace hascloseness guided my living happily, and empathy. experiencTime, and lifeallowing is indeed spectrum physical is all let your dad know how much es rather than merely blessings you have right pronounced.

We should leading to feelings of days to pass us by life. es, from grief and anger However, Father’s Day can also precious, and we should not possible.

Cherish endure them.

It is vital now.

It’s easy to get you love him not just for Father’s our personal strive to seize each Happyevery without appreciation.

Father’s to all our joy and in gratitude. strivemixed to cherish each fortosuccess bring emotions those moment toFather’s reflect ouris lives caught up inDay theyou’re rush DayFranklin but lives. for all time.

Day day, askingon ourselves and professional Many find with themselves As Benjamin fathers out there reading this mesmoment gratitude given, for life moves who have lost their fathers or have ensure that are of life, but these small, ifand weto truly lived orwe if we However, challenges beautiful reminder honor the moping over things noted, the aonly certainand joy. faster than we realize. sage.

Hopefully you are getting not held back by fear or complicated relationships.

It’s a ordinary moments often to opportunities slip arise during moments beyond their control, incredible our lives. ties in life are “death men inlet Take aexactly pause, look spend the day as you want regret.

As we age, the MAKE THE BEST OF IT become the ones we time to acknowledge these feelof struggle, uncertainaway.

Ultimately, life is such as the weather or It’s a day to express our loveof and and taxes”, but recent around, and truly apimportance infusing it. Thank you, for giving us adults, welead often wish we God, could relive. ingsAsand to can reach out for healing ty, and unhappiness. about making it meangossip.

This global events, particugratitude to our dads, who have preciate the people, our lives with meaning forget the importance Time doesn’t wait, sothe all of the men in our community Life presents us with a ingful and embracing and reconciliation.

Let’s to prolonged periods of ofremember larly the recent enough experiences, and the shaped us in countless ways.even From becomes more living happily, make the most of every who love, nurture, care, support, spectrum pandemic, of experienc- and cherishing every sadness, where individthat God, as ourallowing Heavenly COVID-19 Father, blessings you have right the little lessons to the big life mopronounced.

We should days to pass us by single day—love deepes, from grief and anger moment. and guide their families and our uals may unintentionally embodies the love and guidance have highlighted addinow.

It’soften, easy to get strive to each ments, their guidance is seize invaluwithout appreciation. ly, laugh pray to joy and gratitude. bring others down with communities. everything THOUGHT FOR THE we seek,find andthemselves we can reflecttional that intruths: caught upand in the rush day, asking ourselves Many constantly savor able.

As Benjamin Franklin them.

However, life is changes and ends, WEEK of life, but that these small, our own relationships. if we truly lived or if we moping over things the beauty surIn being a dad to Mia and Sophie noted, the only certainnot meant to be lived in plans can quickly unravAsopportunities your thoughtslip ordinary moments often As weWe celebrate, let’s our let beyond their rounds you.

May each in life lifeIis are have learned how to be a better misery. arecontrol, here to shower el,ties and not“death always for the week, take alife is become the ones we away.

Ultimately, such as the weather or fathers with love and appreciation, of you who read this andThese taxes”, but recent embrace and cherish listener, to be more compassionfair. realities moment to reflect on the be wish we could about making it meangossip. can lead blessed and relive. cherish recognizing the profound impact global us events, particueach day,This face chalate, tender and patient.

However, remind that we are simplicity of your youngTimelife doesn’t wait, so ingful and embracing to prolonged periods of your and the lives larly the recent enough they have on our lives.

Whether lenges, and grow from not always in control of er years, a time before the most important thing that I make the most of every and cherishing every sadness, where individof others with gratitude, COVID-19 pandemic, through a simple Sharmessage, aour heartour experiences. destinies. worries single day—love deepmayDespite haveaddilearnedadult from being a took dad hold. moment. uals may especially during these have highlighted ing joy can unintentionally uplift those felt conversation, or a thoughtful the difficulties we face, Life moves quickly, ly, laughtimes. often, Let prayus is to always be respectful.

I believe bring others down a with worrying tional truths: everything THOUGHT FOR THE around us, creating gesture, let’s makelife thisisFather’s Day there is hope thata these and being present constantlythose and savor them. However, dad has helped to bet- is remember whose changes being and ends, WEEKme In positive ripple one. effect.Happy challenging times will the gift essential. light of onthe beauty that sura not memorable Father’s meant to be lived in lives are at stake, those ter respect of life, the peoplans can quickly unravAs your thought Each moment is eventually pass, allowgoing global challenges rounds you. Mayand each Day to allWe the are dadshere out there—your misery. most vulnerable, el,us and life is not always for the week, take a ple and friends in my life and the unique, and every indi-to ing to adapt and find like wars, conflicts, and of youwho whomust readchoose this love and dedication do not go unembrace and cherish fair.

These realities moment to reflect on the those people around me whom I come vidual is distinct, making be blessed andand cherish new pathways forward. climate change, let’s each day, face chalnoticed. between health remind us that we are simplicity of your youngour life experiences intoLIFE contact with.focus on making the your life stability. and the lives lenges, financial Let us I am soand grateful tofrom have anEMBRACING amaznot always Writing in control this of thought er years, a current time invaluable.

Wegrow must for thebefore of others with gratitude, most of our moour experiences.

SharEmbracing the not forget those without our destinies. Despite adult worries took hold. ing dad this who,beautiful I know, loves me and cherish especially during these ments.

Appreciate what week has helped me to realize that ingas joy uplift those of lifewe can homes or those working the difficulties face, Life moves quickly, who has taught me means gift, nocan amount ofwhat itcertainties worryingon times.

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Underthere has been anyone who has lives highlighting are at stake,their those engage in acts of kindEach is as suggested by the bration of all of the people in our and sacrifice. eventually pass, allowgoing global challenges dedication standing that our time is most vulnerable, and ness.

Express gratitude, been a consistent enunique, and everysupport indi- and Lord Jesus Christ’s call ing us to lives adaptlike andour find parents, like wars, our conflicts, wives, and Amen. those who must choose couragement in my life, it would vidual is distinct, making new pathways forward. climate our friends, and the fatherchange, figures let’s between health and life experiences beourboth of my parents. I EMBRACING could who LIFE focus on making the help father’s carry out their financial stability. Let us invaluable.

We must write an entire separate thought most our current Embracing the role each important andofevery day. monot forget those without cherish this beautiful ments.

Appreciate on how much I love my mom, but Soofbe certainties lifetruly can grateful homes or those working for your dad what gift, as amount of you have, celebrate today it’sno about my dad! lead to deeper undertirelessly on the front and for the otheryour father-like fig- and money can buy another unique gifts, I thinkatthat I take for granted standing ures and fulfillment, lines, highlighting their that have selflengage essly supported chance life. Underin acts of kindsuggested by the the sacrifice that my dadishas as made dedication and sacrifice. standing that our time you in your life. ness. Express gratitude, Amen.

Lord Jesus Christ’s call in his life, in order for my siblings

Thought week: Thoughtfor forthe the week: cherishing life Macalla an Chláir

A Father’s Day Prayer C C Spreading the word of positivity

Spreading the word of positivity

le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

Bliain in Inis Tigh O’Keefe ar TG4 Macalla an Chláir Oirr: Earrach inniu!/ O’Keefe’s Ennis onin TG4 today! ar TG4 san Bliain Inis le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

oíche dé Máirt Oirr: Earrach ar TG4 san oíche dé Máirt

B B B

eidh Pádraig Rynne, Sylvain Barou, agus an t-amhránaí Josie HarÍGÍ ag breathnú ar TG4 rington agus neart eile san oíche Dé Máirt, Tigh O’Keefe in Inisani 13ú lái dteannta de Bhealtaine ag gCo. An Chláir Carmel 7.30pm, nuair12.25pm. a bheas O’Dea sa gclár seo. TG4, an clár ‘’Bliain in Inis Inniu.

Oírr’’ le feiceáil. Is í an Earrach a bheas faoi chaibidil agus na fataí

Padraig Rynne, Sylvain Barou, singer Josie Harrington and many more are in O’Keefe’s Bar in Ennis, dhá sá. with fiddle player Carmel Co. Clare AN BHFUIL O’Dea for thisSCÉAL episode.LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

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

ÍGÍ ag breathnú ar TG4 san oíche Dé Máirt, an 13ú lá de Bhealtaine ag 7.30pm, nuair a bheas an clár ‘’Bliain in Inis Oírr’’ le feiceáil. Is í an Earrach a bheas faoi chaibidil agus na fataí

dhá sá.

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

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

Mo shean-chara Pádraic Póil as Inis Oírr ag cur fhataí sa ngarraí

Imeachtaí/Events: • SIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am, chuile Dé Domhnaigh • CILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar Mo shean-chara Pádraic Póil as Inis Oírr ag chuile cur fhataí sa ngarraí • LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, Dé Domhnaigh, TIGH O’KEEFE: Geantraí i gCo. An Chláir inniuSan Doiminic, Luimneach 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid •Imeachtaí/Events: Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM SIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am, •• CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé chuile Déag Domhnaigh Céadaoin 7.30pm CILL –ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuilechuile oíche Dé 8pm •• INIS CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, Dé Ceadaoin Luain agag11am i mBuggles sa gCopper Bar Jug, Dé Máirt ag Zest 11am, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in • LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), Dé Domhnaigh, hAoine The 10.30am, an tSlánaitheora, Doiminic, Luimneach Market BarMainistir 11am, agus Dé Sathairn i Sráid nGlór,San 11am-12pm.

Déan teag• Clare Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, mháil leoFM ag:-caintaguscomhra@outlook.com 9am ar Clare FM •agLUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, • CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá XPO, chuile Dé Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolaissan ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 Céadaoin 792 8389. ag 7.30pm INISSCAIRBH – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11ami •• AN – ‘’Lón i nGaeilge’’ , 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT sa gCopper Jug, Dé Máirt ag Zest 11am, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in gcaifé ‘’An Gáirdín’’ , fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), Dé hAoine The Market Bar 11am, agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com • LUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389.

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

28

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Green Clare

Fahy Beg wind farm to proceed after High Court dismisses objectors’ judicial review challenge

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

THE High Court has dismissed objectors’ judicial review challenge against the green light for a 579 ft high eight turbine wind farm for lands in south east Clare.

Over 300 people from the area lodged objections against the Fahy Beg wind farm proposal and Clare County Council refused planning permission to RWE Renewables Ireland Ltd for the 38.4 MW windfarm on lands 1.5km from Bridgetown, and 3.5km from O’Briensbridge in south-east Clare in May 2023.

As part of the proposal, the wind-farm developers are to establish a Community Benefit Fund which will distribute up to €3.12m over the first 15 years of the wind farm.

Documents lodged with the application state that the provision of the Community Benefit Fund “will have a sig-

nificant long-term, positive effect on the socio-economic profile of the study area and wider area”.

The Council refused across five grounds including that the planned wind farm would depreciate the price of property as it would be visually over-bearing on those properties.

However, RWE Renewables Ireland appealed and An Bord Pleanála overturned the Council refusal to grant planning permission in March 2024.

In response, the Fahybeg Windfarm Opposition Group and Sean Conway launched High Court judicial review proceedings seeking to have the appeals board decision quashed for the wind farm which is to be located on a site 14km north of Limerick city.

However, Mr Justice Richard Humphreys - who presides over the Planning and Environment Division of the High Court - has dismissed all grounds of the judicial re-

view challenge.

The applicants claimed that the decision should be quashed as the planned wind farm would materially contravene the Development Plan due to the loss of part of Ballymoloney Woods.

Mr Justice Humphreys stated that on the basis of the applicants’ analysis, the felling of any tree necessarily constitutes a material contravention of the Development Plan.

Mr Justice Humphreys stated that this approach represented an “excessively literalist and absolutist interpretation” of development plan objectives.

Mr Justice Humphreys stated that the application failed to engage with the specifics of the individual trees which are actually being felled, pointing 0.4 of a hectare or, or 0.2% of the total amount of long established woodland is being removed.

He said, “There is no absolute prohibition on the removal of trees, contrary to

the applicants’ complaints, and a reasonably informed reader would not read such a preclusion into the Development Plan when same is read objectively and holistically”.

Mr Justice Humphreys also dismissed the objectors’ claim that planning permission should be quashed due to the impact that the wind farm would have on property prices in the area.

He said that there is no substantive evidence presented that would conclusively indicate a depreciation in property values directly attributable to the wind farm’s presence at this particular location.

Mr Justice Humphreys made no order in relation to costs.

FAHY BEG: Over 300 objections to windfarm

Increase in electric car registrations in Clare

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

CLARE saw an almost 50% rise in new electric car registrations last month.

New nationwide registration statistics were published by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) for May. Registrations of new cars was down 8.8% nationally, compared to a 5.3% rise in the number of battery electric registered last month.

Clare saw a growth of over 5% in new vehicle registrations this year with 1,670 new units added to the road compared to 1,577 up to the end of May in 2024.

Clare has seen one of the most dramatic increases in new electric vehicle registrations in 2025. There have been 206 new registrations

so far this year, compared to 139 last year, a rise of almost 50%.

At a national level, 1092 electric vehicles this May, a 5.3% increase on the 1037 EVs registered in the same month last year. So far in 2025, there has been a 23% increase in new electric cars registered, rising from 10,052 in 2024 to 12,392 in 2025.

Society of Irish Motor Industry Director General Brian Cooke commented, “For the fifth consecutive month, new electric vehicle sales have increased, with EV registrations 5% ahead of May last year, with over 12,300 new electric cars sold so far this year, representing a 23% increase on last year. Private consumers continue to account for the majority of EV sales”.

“Private consumers continue to account for the majority of EV sales. While we are now on schedule to reach the interim Climate Action Plan target of 175,000 electric cars (EV & PHEV) by the end of this year, as highlighted by the EPA recently, we need to do more to accelerate the growth in EV sales between now and the end of the decade. In this context, Government initiatives and supports will be vital”, he said.

Galway has also seen a sharp increase in electric car registrations. Between January and May 2025, 403 new units were registered which represents an increase of over 33% than the 301 vehicles registered during the same timeframe last year.

Find out how you can help biodiversity in Clare with free resources from the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan • • • •

Lists of pollinator-friendly plants & herbs Simple, tailored advice for gardeners, community groups, businesses, faith communities, sports clubs, & more Posters & lesson plans for schools Interactive map to track your progress

Help create an Ireland where pollinators can survive & thrive

www.pollinators.ie Documenting Ireland’s Wildlife

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

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

Green Clare

29

Galway hosts first-ever green clubs event

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GALWAY County Council has joined forces with GAA, LGFA, and Camogie clubs from across Galway for the county’s first-ever Green Clubs event at Ballinderreen GAA Club, Clough Road, on Tuesday, June 17th, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The Green Clubs Programme—a collaboration between the GAA and local authorities throughout Ireland—was launched in 2020 to support clubs in taking climate action. The programme is funded with support from the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications.

The upcoming information evening will feature guest speakers and experts on a range of key topics, including Energy, Waste, Bio-

diversity, and Funding Opportunities. The event will also showcase real-life case studies from Ballinderreen GAA Club and St. Brendan’s Club in Ballygar, highlighting their implementation of impactful climate and sustainability projects.

Funded under the Community Climate Action Fund and supported by Galway County Council, Ballinderreen GAA Club has installed planter boxes for a Pollinator Pathway, solar panels on the clubhouse, a windows upgrade for the Community Centre, recycling bins, and a water fountain.

Cllr. Martina Kinane, Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway, said, “Galway County Council is extending an open invitation to all GAA, LGFA, and Camogie clubs across County Galway to join us for this im-

portant event. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from fellow clubs, gain expert insights, and discover practical steps you can take to make your club more sustainable.

By coming together, clubs can lead the way in climate action—on and off the pitch—for the good of our

lGREEN CLUBS: Ballindeer GAA

communities and future generations.”

According to Denise Feeney, Green Club representative and Community Climate Action Officer for Galway County Council, “Featuring a mix of GAA representatives and expert speakers, the event will showcase

practical examples of how Galway clubs can embrace green initiatives—helping to future-proof their facilities, cut costs, and enhance community well-being while making a positive impact on the environment.”

Confirmed speakers at the event include Paul Bellew

(Chairperson of Galway GAA), Míde Ní Shúilleabháin (Sustainability Adviser (GAA Green Club Programme), Orla Ní Shuibhne (Community Mentor, Sustainable Energy Authority Of Ireland), Sinéad Ní Mhainnin (MyWaste.ie), Brendán Ó Loinsigh (Ballinderreen GAA Club), Brian Healy (St. Brendan’s Club), and representatives of the Biodiversity and Climate Action offices of Galway County Council.

The evening will conclude with a Questions & Answers session and a walkabout tour of the Ballinderreen GAA Green Club, showcasing its innovative climate action projects.

Clubs planning to attend are requested to RSVP to climateaction@galwaycoco.ie

by Monday, June 16th, 2025

30

Arts & Culture

Thursday, June 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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

Sheahan Gort Community School’s Sister Norma brings comedy Act shines at GUMS Awards show to Glór

by LISA MULLALY lisa@clareecho.ie

GORT Community School’s 2025 production of Sister Act has received significant recognition at this year’s Galway University Musical Society (GUMS) School Awards, with ten nominations and four wins, including Best Leading Lady, Best Chorus, Best Visuals, and Best Off-Stage Accompaniment.

This production marks another milestone in the school’s long-running commitment to musical theatre, which has grown steadily since the first full-school production in 2011.

The musical has become a core part of Gort’s educational and extracurricular programme, with broad participation from Transition Year students and support from staff across departments.

Gort Community School’s success at the 2025 GUMS Awards reflects the high standard of its musical theatre programme and the value the school places on the arts as part of holistic education. Through sustained investment in time, staff resources, and student engagement, the school continues to foster a musical culture that supports both performance excellence and personal development.

The Clare Echo spoke with the productions leading ladies; Elena Kahn who took on the role of Doloris Van Cartier and Eimear Clancy who played Mother Superior, as well as the director and choreographer; Tara O’Carroll and musical director and composer Edel Quinn, to take a look behind the scenes of this award winning production.

Every year, Gort’s school musical brings together dozens of students, staff members, and even past pupils in a joint effort that spans months of rehearsals and planning. From September to January, rehearsals take place after school three days a week, with commitment growing as opening night approaches.

Students from all year groups are encouraged to get involved, whether performing on stage, assisting backstage, working on lighting or set design, or playing in the live orchestra. Director and choreographer Tara O’Carroll explained that the production team tries to open the experience to everyone, including exam-year students, in the same way that students are supported in pursuing sport.

“We firmly believe that some people are interested in sport, but for others, this is their

thing, music is their love,” she said. “If you organise yourself, you can fit it in, no more than if you have matches or training sessions.”

“Our goal is to perpetuate that love for music and the love for musical theatre.”

While students of all years are welcome, the core performance group typically consists of Transition Year students, who are given more flexibility to commit time to rehearsals and production work. For many, TY provides the space to explore new interests like acting or music.

“Since we were in TY we had the time after school to do it and we didn’t have many distractions,” said Eimear Clancy.

“From September up to Christmas it was very much dedicated to the musical.”

Eimear, who has a background in traditional Irish music and is credited as a champion singer, lilter and melodeon decided to use transition as an opportunity to expand her musical abilities and take ona leading role in the production.

Although Sister Act is typically seen as a fast aced energetic production Eimears main challenge during the show was containing her enthusiasm. As ‘Mother Superior’ Eimear’s role involved staying in character as a calm, stoic presence while the rest of the cast performed energetic dance numbers.

“I think watching everyone else doing it was tough because I wished that I was able to join in and dance,” she said. “You could feel the need to smile, but you can’t, you have to just stay in character.”

In contrast, the lead role of Deloris Van Cartier required near-constant stage time, physical stamina, and vocal range.

Elena Khan, who played Deloris, described the intensity of the role.

“The nature of the way Deloris’ part is she is always backto-back with her solos and it’s

really intense. I mean for the first two opening numbers you don’t even get to come off stage to take a moment.”

Elena’s performance earned her the Best Leading Lady award at the GUMS ceremony.

But even with the spotlight on her, she was quick to credit the entire cast.

“One thing that I have learned from the show is that it is not a one person thing,” she said. “It’s not about the leads or any certain aspect, it’s about the team. That’s why we won Best Chorus because everybody gave it their all.”

Musical director Edel Quinn echoed that sentiment, noting the importance of recognising every contributor to the production.

“And that’s why we were delighted with the awards that we did get this year,” she said.

“Elena thoroughly enjoyed and deserved Best Leading Lady, but then to get Best Chorus and Best Off-Stage Accompaniment as well, they are lovely awards to win.”

A defining element of Gort Community Schools musical culture is the focus on encouraging all students to participate, no matter their background or interests. Tara reflected on how involvement in the show has often brought out unexpected talents.

“When I think back to some of the leads over the years, I remember they would have been very athletic. They may have been on the hurling team, the rugby team, or soccer,” she said.

“But to be a dancer you need to be well-coordinated too. It goes hand in hand. You’ll find an awful lot of the girls might do gymnastics or camogie and they just love the physical aspect of choreography.”

The school production also featured a live orchestra composed of current students, past pupils, and musicians from Coole Music, allowing for high-quality live accompani-

SISTER ACT: Students of Gort Community School at GUMS Ceremony

ment, which also received recognition at this year’s GUMS. Students played a wide range of instruments, including percussion, strings, and guitar. Some roles were shared between current and former students to accommodate academic pressures, such as Leaving Certificate preparation.

“There’s a tradition of people coming back to see the show, a tradition of students coming back to play in the orchestra, a tradition of past performers coming to see us every January,” said Tara.

The production is supported by a large number of staff, both directly and behind the scenes.

Teachers cover for colleagues during rehearsals, SNAs help backstage, and office staff assist with logistics. The production also involves input from other departments assisting in set design and costumes. Both Tara and Edel credited the quality of the production to strong student involvement and a collaborative school-wide effort.

“To put it on to such a high standard, you need the vast majority of staff to buy into it, and we have that. If a teacher didn’t substitute or look after a class when someone was off doing work on the show, it would all fall apart,” said school principal Brian Crossnan, who got a taste of what it’s like to be on stage during this year’s production when he took over the role of ‘The Pope.’

“For me, it was an amazing experience,” he said. “I’ve always appreciated the effort, but when you’re actually part of it, even in a small role, you see how much goes into it.”

For students, the experience of being part of the school musical often leaves a lasting impact.

They learn time management, communication, and what it means to work together to create something meaningful.

Although she is no stranger to performing and has been involved in numerous school productions Elana said; “one thing that I have learned from the show is that it is not a one person thing, it’s not about the leads or any certain aspect it’s about the team. Because we couldn’t put on the show if every single person didn’t give it their all. I mean that’s why we won best chorus because everybody did.”

Tara hopes that this sense of teamwork and camaraderie will remain with the students past their time on the stage and help prepare them for later in life.

“The most important thing I suppose is that it’s about teamwork,” said Tara. “Even in the world of work, being able to work as a unit to achieve a common goal is so important”.

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

RENOWNED Irish actress and comedian Norma Sheahan is set to bring her acclaimed one-woman show, It’s Wine O’Clock, to Glór, Ennis on Saturday June 21, offering audiences an unflinching yet hilariously candid take on life, liberation, and laughter after divorce.

Directed by Michael Scott, the production has been touring to enthusiastic reception across Ireland, drawing audiences who return time and again for Sheahan’s blend of raw honesty and comic timing. Now, with its arrival in Ennis, local audiences can look forward to a night of bold storytelling that resonates particularly with women navigating midlife transitions.

Speaking about the inspiration behind the show, Sheahan is clear that it’s neither a sob story or a lecture but “ two hours of side splitting laughter.”

“It’s just my story about getting out there after a peaceful divorce. There’s nothing worse than someone going up on stage crying about their divorce,” she told the Clare Echo. “And I have had people say to me that they wish I had talked more about where it went wrong. But I think for someone who is freshly out of a divorce there is no point in me going up there talking about how it was all grand, it was very peaceful. I mean there was no abuse, there were no affairs—we were just two people that were sick of looking at each other and we weren’t very nice to one another.”

Norma Sheahan’s journey with It’s Wine O’Clock is also deeply connected to her previous role as Shirley Valentine. Reflecting on that experience, Norma says, “I feel like Shirley Valentine but in real life.” That feeling of stepping out into the world with newfound freedom and courage shapes much of her current show.

Marked with Sheahan’s trademark wit and a refusal to wallow she presents a story of hope, identity, and reawakening. “The heart to it, I’d say, is the hope in these women. People have come back three times. Because they see me up there and it gives them hope. And at the end of the day I am not promoting divorce, I’m just saying don’t get married and don’t have kids,” she jokes.

Sheahan also touches on the generational shifts in body image and empowerment. “It’s weird because my mother’s generation, they had hairpieces and hot pants when they were growing up. And we were wearing dungarees and baggy check shirts into discos. What I love now is the younger generation are allowed to celebrate their bodies. They are allowed to have a strong body. We weren’t encouraged to do sport, we were just told you have to have the figure of a supermodel.”

Now, at 49, Sheahan sees new possibilities for herself and for women everywhere. “That’s where the freedom is with women my age. I believe 50 is the new 30. Women don’t have to hide that they are stressed and living with anxiety, riddled with hormones, they have a voice now. It’s just so much better. I think it’s a great time to be a female.

And particularly older women, we were put out to pasture and seen as a waste of space. But now, it’s like we have a new lease of life.”

WINE O’CLOCK: Normas Shaehan

31

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 12, 2025

Business

Two Shannon lecturers honoured for teaching excellence at regional awards TWO lecturers from the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) have been highly commended for their exceptional contributions to teaching at the prestigious Regional Teaching Excellence Awards.

The awards, which took place at the Millenium theatre on the grounds of the TUS Moylish campus in Limerick last week, celebrated seven finalists from across the region, representing TUS, Mary Immaculate College (MIC) and University of Limerick (UL).

Among the seven shortlisted candidates which included the winner, three lecturers received high commendations - two of them hailing from TUS’s Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD). The panel praised the work of LSAD’s Damien O’Connell, Programme Coordinator for Critical and Contextual Studies, and Gianna Tomasso, Programme Leader for the MA in Instructional and Learning Design.

Gianna Tomasso (from County Clare), is the Programme Leader for the MA in Instructional and Learning Design and is an Assistant Lecturer at Limerick School of Art and Design (LSAD), where she teaches undergraduate Critical and Contextual Studies as well as creative research methodologies on the MA in Fine

Art. Gianna’s portfolio was praised for its innovative presentation, strong teaching philosophy, and commitment to inclusive practices.

Damien O’Connell (from South Kerry), is Programme Coordinator for Critical and Contextual Studies at LSAD, teaching across undergraduate and postgraduate levels in Fine Art, Design, and

Education, leading modules and teaching on MFA, and the BA Fine Art Sculpture & Combined Media programme. Panel members commented that Damien is a very passionate educator who is deeply invested in his students and subject area.

Speaking at the ceremony, President of TUS, Professor Vincent Cunnane congratulated finalists for their prin-

ciples of inclusion, innovation, and creativity in their practice.

“We here at the Technological University of the Shannon are delighted to host the Regional Teaching Excellence Award ceremony and to be joined by our regional partners from MIC and UL. TUS is committed to teaching excellence and to ensuring our students have a

learning experience that will shape and prepare them for the future. We are proud that our university has the highest graduate employability rate for two years running. This remarkable achievement is a testament to the dedication and innovative practices of our educators, like Damien and Gianna, whose work directly contributes to preparing our students for success-

l SHANNON LECTURERS: LSAD’s Damien O’Connell, Programme Coordinator for Critical and Contextual Studies, with President of TUS, Prof Vincent Cunnane, and Gianna Tomasso, Programme Leader for the MA in Instructional and Learning Design.

Photo by: Brian Arthur

UL bestows Honorary Doctorate of Engineering on Michael Guinee

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FOUNDER AND FORMER CEO of Ei Electronics, Mick Guinee has been honoured with an honorary doctorate of engineering by the University of Limerick.

In recognition of his immense legacy as an engineer, employer, entrepreneur, innovator and philanthropist in the Mid-West region, Mick was awarded the honorary doctorate of UL. Under his leadership of over 35 years Ei Electronics has become one of Ireland’s largest and most successful indigenous manufacturing and exporting companies with a turnover of €425 million in 2024.

As well as being an outstanding supporter of engineering and economic growth in the Mid-West, Mick developed a unique reputation for giving back to the community. He has made significant contributions to education, sport, arts and culture, health and welfare, and communities across the region.

He set up the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation to support his philanthropic pursuits into the future. He established the Ei Women in Engineering Scholarship at University of Limerick in 2019 and Ei’s graduate programme supports UL’s cooperative education programme as well as the recruitment of many UL engineering and science graduates annually.

Speaking from the ceremony in Plassey House on Monday afternoon, UL’s Acting President Professor Shane Kilcommins said, “Michael Guinee’s work in engineering, sustainability, business and community development has been recognised on multiple occasions by both Ennis and Limerick chambers of commerce and today, it is fitting that University of Limerick recognises

and honours his immense legacy. Michael’s extraordinary commitment to maintaining manufacturing in Shannon, his tenacious support of his dedicated staff and his ability to innovate at scale are just some of the many reasons we celebrate him. Today’s honorary conferring is a recognition of the transformative role that industry leaders like Michael play in shaping Ireland’s future, and a reaffirmation of our commitment to honour those who lead with purpose and principle”.

CLARE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DAC Clare Tourism Development DAC is a subsidiary company of Clare County Council that oversees the management, development, and promotion of a portfolio of signature visitor attraction sites throughout County Clare.

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.

• Heavy Vehicle Mechanic Closing date: 12 Noon Friday 4th July 2025 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.

Clare Tourism is now hiring for

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32

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Ryan returns for Louth showdown

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

STEPHEN Ryan has returned to Clare’s senior football panel ahead of Sunday’s crunch All-Ireland SFC tie with Louth.

A win is required for Clare to keep their season alive while Leinster champions Louth can settle for a draw if they’re to snatch the last qualification spot from Group 3 of the All-Ireland SFC. It will be the first championship meeting between Clare and Louth.

Peter Keane’s Clare are returning to full strength for what is a defining game of their season. Brothers Cillian and Brendy Rouine are available for selection having missed the Monaghan game due to a family bereavement, Emmet McMahon and Cillian Brennan are also in the mix with injuries ruling them out of the nine point loss in the second round.

Kilrush’s Stephen Ryan has answered repeated calls from management to join the squad. Last year’s vice captain had not been part of the panel at all for Keane’s first season in charge. He made his senior championship debut for Clare in 2019.

The Clare Echo understands

that management had been persistent in their efforts to get Stephen on board and this intensified following the Munster final loss to Kerry. Work commitments are believed to be a reason which influenced his decision to have exited the panel last year. He was an interested spectator in Clones two weeks ago and is now pushing for game-time in O’Moore Park.

Last June he picked up a serious knee injury at Clare training which brought an end to his season and saw him miss Clare’s final-round All-Ireland SFC defeat to Donegal and the entirety of the Clare IFC. Eamon Tubridy has been Clare’s first-choice goalkeeper during league and championship but the move of management to bring in Stephen strongly suggests they will change the man between the posts this weekend. His return was confirmed on The Intensive Clare podcast.

During the Garry Cup, Stephen had been in exceptional form for his club with Dermot Coughlan’s side unbeaten in their run to the Division 2 final while also securing promotion to the Cusack Cup. His performances here also included racking up a fine tal-

news@clareecho.ie

CLARE GAA’s delegate on Munster Council fears he is “fighting a losing battle” to prevent a return of seeding Kerry and Cork on opposite sides of the provicincial championship while the county’s coffers “are not in a bad position” despite an estimated drop in income of €350,000.

A return to a situation which would see Kerry and Cork on opposite sides when the draw for the Munster senior football championship takes place was mooted at a meeting of the Provincial Council last week, the June meeting of Clare GAA was told.

Clare’s delegate to the Provincial body, Bernard Keane informed the delegates at Clareabbey on Tuesday evening of the move and pointed out that he was the only one at last week’s meeting of the Provincial body to voice opposition to the suggestion.

The matter is to come up for discussion again at the July meeting of the Council

CUSACK CUP SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

ly of two pointers from placed balls.

Showings from Connor Meaney and Shane Griffin last time out have kept them in contention to retain starting jerseys for Clare but the trio of Brennan, McMahon and Cillian Rouine are all on course to return to the first fifteen.

Keelan Sexton was an unused substitute two weeks ago and remains available for selection.

Speaking ahead of Sunday’s game which has a 2pm start, Louth manager Ger Brennan noted the ability within the Clare squad. “They’re a talented group and they are unlucky to miss out on promotion.

Three seasons ago, they beat a Louth team in the early rounds of Division 3 although Louth mobilised quite well and finished on eight points and won promotion themselves.

"So they’re an excellent team, yes they’ve lost a couple of bodies but if you’re looking at them, they have guys like Mark McInerney, Emmett McMahon, Connor Meaney, Brian McNamara and then Keelan Sexton too, Eoin Cleary and one or two boys due to come back from injury that we haven’t seen just yet."

Clare's Munster rep fears return of seeding Kerry & Cork in football championship

by Seamus Hayes

'BRICKS CLAIM SEMI-FINAL SPOT

and Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy said that “we will gather information to support Clare’s view that such a move should not happen. We want to be able to argue this case on its merits. We will need other counties to support us”.

The suggestion is that the two seeded teams will be decided on where teams finish in the league. Currently Kerry would be number one (they are in division 1), Cork would be number two (they are in division 2).

“They are proposing seeding the teams based on the previous year’s league placings. I took exception to that. What surprised me more than anything else was that I was the only one in the room that objected to this. A final decision will be made at the meeting in July. I believe that for Clare football that is a backward step.

Some of the older people in this room like myself spent years trying to get rid of a Cork/Kerry monopoly and this is a

step towards returning to that. The league placings last year saw Kerry in division 1 which they won, Cork in division 2, Clare in division 3 with Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford in division 4. Based on last year the seedings will be Cork and Kerry, end of story. There is no guarantee that a Cork-Kerry Munster final will be more competitive. We have been as competitive if not more than Cork in the last couple of years. Cork have a greater infrastructure, a greater number of clubs and a great ability to stay above us. Many people in Clare fought for the change for so many years and in one swoop it was nearly wiped out”, Keane told this week’s meeting.

He went on to say that he believes he “is fighting a losing battle”.

Chairman Kieran Keating said “it’s not quite going back to where we were. It’s not the worst thing possible that could be done. The main issue I have is that they can’t introduce this now or next year.

 Kilmurry Ibrickane’s match winner Cathal Talty is shouldered Photo by James Downes

by Enda O’Gorman of Miltown

BRIDGE END BLUES REIGN TO REACH SEMIS

CLARE CUP

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

 Caimin Morey of Sixmilebridge dispossesses Newmarket's Shane Lynch Photo by Gerard O'Neill

"The only way we can get ahead of Cork next year is if Cork are relegated. We were above Cork in the league in six of the last ten years. To try and introduce this now when Cork are above us I would say is very underhand and that is the grounds I would be fighting this on.

"We will fight to make sure we have three years to prepare for this and then it’s up to us to get our league position up to be ahead of Cork and Kerry.

For a full round-up from the County Board meeting, visit www.clareecho.ie

33

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

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Sport

Quarter-final 'still within our own hands'

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

QUALIFICATION for the All-Ireland senior camogie quarter-finals is still “within our own hands,” Clare’s manager has said.

Speaking after Saturday’s camogie championship game between Clare and Limerick, Banner boss John Carmody expressed satisfaction with the team’s second half performance when noting “it’s a game we probably should have won”.

“Limerick were exceptional in the first half. We have played Limerick teams down through the years, it’s a local derby and there is nothing between the sides. The pleasing thing for us today was the character we showed in the second half into the breeze”, the manager said.

He went on to point out that “Limerick beat Wexford by three points and we beat them by the same margin” when noting that “there were comments going from some people during the week that didn’t take note of those results”.

The Kilmaley clubman agreed that “Limerick were in the driving seat at half time but we bossed the second half.

We will regret the amount of wides we had in both halves and the goal we conceded was a crucial score” Qualification for the knock ou stage of the championship is, according to the Clare manager “still in our own hands. We thought we would have a quarter final spot nailed here today but we haven’t. It’s still within our own grasp, it will probably be scor-

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH SCAN REPORT HERE FOR

ALL-IRELAND SNR CAMOGIE CHAMP' GROUP 1 RD2 CLARE 0-12 LIMERICK 1-09 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg, Ennis Compiled by Seamus Hayes

MATCH REPORT

STORY OF THE GAME CLARE LIMERICK Frees For: 20 (11/9) Frees For: 14 (6/8) Wides: 12 (6/6) Wides: 3 (1/2) Scores from play: 0-10 Scores from play: 1-5 Spread of scorers: 7 Spread of scorers: 4 Top scorer: Zi Yan Spillane Top scorer: Laura Southern (0-3 2f) (1-3) Own puckouts won: 8 out Own puckouts won: 18 out of 13 of 24 Bookings: Jennifer Daly Bookings: None (43) REFEREE: Brian Kearney (Kildare)

ing difference now but hopefully we will beat Tipperary in the last game”.

Clare’s next game will be away to Cork who, according to the Clare boss, “have taken the game to a new level this

year. We will go down and compete as best we can. We have to compete for every ball now as the group is going to come down to scoring difference. We showed that we can battle”.

 Zi Yan Spillane is knocked to the ground Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Concluding he said, “it’s a learning curve all the time.

We are pleased with the second half performance today but we must learn from the first half. It’s a game we prob-

ably should have won. Hopefully we won’t suffer as big a defeat against Cork as Limerick did”.

Minors one hour Championship pairings focus the minds away from �inal CLARE’s minor hurlers are one hour away from a place in the All-Ireland final, writes Páraic McMahon.

Ger O’Connell’s charges make the trip to Tipp this Sunday where they face Cork at 1pm in FBD Semple Stadium.

It is the fourth All-Ireland semi-final in as many seasons for Clare. A source of major frustration for Clare supporters is the clash with the county’s senior footballers who face Louth at 2pm in Portlaoise on Sunday.

Focus for the minors is solely on getting a result against a Cork side crowned Munster champions for a thirty fifth time and a first since 2021 when they overcame Waterford by a single point in May. It will be the second meeting of Clare and Cork at this grade this season. The Rebels recorded a 3-24 3-17 when they clashed at Dr Daly Park in Tulla in April.

Since then, Clare have become stronger as a unit and have made several alterations to their line-up. Dara Kennedy’s return from injury has served as a big boost for Clare with the Ballyea man anchoring a central role in defence.

Rory Ralph of Clarecastle and St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield’s Ben Talty have been added to the fray in the half-forward line with Jack O’Halloran, a son of two-time All-Ireland winner Michael nailing down the full-back berth.

Star attackers Paul Rodgers and Liam Murphy from Scariff and O’Callaghans Mills respectively will be the threat that Cork will focus on.

Camogie championship draws drop on podcast IN A first for camogie in Clare, the draws for the senior championship were conducted on a podcast.

Intensive Clare hosted by Eoin Brennan and James Lynch became a more intense setting this week as the draws were held on the podcast for the Clare Credit Unions Senior Championship.

It is the first time that a podcast has been utlised to conduct the championship draws.

All-Ireland finalists Truagh/Clonlara have been paired against familiar foes Scariff/Ogonnelloe, St Joseph’s, Newmarket-on-Fergus and intermediate champions Tulla.

Last year’s beaten finalists Inagh/Kilnamona are paired with Kilkishen, Feakle-Killanena, Kilmaley and Clarecastle/Ballyea.

“Fixtures for all the Clare Credit Unions Adult Championships will be circulated in the coming days,” PRO Brid MacNamara confirmed.

Clare Credit Unions Senior Championship Group 1 Truagh Clonlara, St Josephs, Scariff-Ogonnelloe, Newmarket on Fergus, Tulla Group 2 Inagh-Kilnamona, Kilkishen, Feakle-Killanena, Kilmaley, Clarecastle/Ballyea.

LADIES football championship pairings have been made in Clare, writes Páraic McMahon.

Clubs can begin to plot their championship bid ahead of the planned August start with the current focus for sides on building up a strong bank of fitness as they prepare without their county panellists. Éire Óg GAA’s clubhouse was the setting for Tuesday’s draw which Clare LGFA Chairperson Therese Roseingrave said was an ode to the Ennis club’s promotion to the top

tier.

Attentive delegates from West Clare Gaels and Cooraclare ensured their sides were not omitted from the Junior B draw as pairings were finalised from Senior to Junior.

Condolences were also offered to the families of Olivia Dolan and Éanna Rouine with the Chairperson noting the county suffered “two tragic losses in the space of a few hours”.

At senior level, reigning champions Kilmurry Ibrickane will be expected to emerge from

Group A where they are joined by intermediate champions Éire Óg, Burren Gaels and Fergus Rovers.

Group B is slightly more competitive with league winners Doora/ Barefield who came up short in the county final facing off with Banner Ladies and Kilmihil both of whom have championship aspirations and a youthful Miltown side.

Clare LGFA Draw: SENIOR Group A Kilmurry Ibrickane Burren Gaels

Éire Óg Fergus Rovers Group B Doora/Barefield Miltown Kilmihil Banner

INTERMEDIATE Group A West Clare Gaels Kilrush Crusheen Group B Doonbeg Cooraclare Liscannor JUNIOR A: Group A: Clooney/Quin

Doora/Barefield Wolfe Tones Cuil Gaels Group B: Kilrush Corofin Fergus Rovers

JUNIOR B: Group A: Miltown Malbay Wolfe Tones Clooney/Quin Kildysart Parteen/Meelick Group B: West Clare Gaels Cooraclare Banner Éire Óg

Community Games hurling & rounders THE St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Hurling competition was held on Sunday in Whitegate Gaa Club, coordinated by Darina Skehan with her team of referees. Thirteen teams competed with some very closely contested matched.

In the Preliminary games Newmarket on Fergus beat Moylusa, Whitegate/Mountshannon beat Crusheen/Ballinruan/ Tubber, Doora/Barefield Beat Bal-lynacally/Lissycasey.

Quarter Finals – Clarecastle/ Ballyea beat Shannon, Sixmileebridge/Kilmurry beat Quin/ Clooney, Newmarket on Fergus beat Inch/Kilmaley/Connolly, Doora/ Barefield beat Whitegate/ Mountshannon.

Semi Final – Newmarket on Fergus beat Sixmilebnridge/ Kilmurry 5-5 to 5-4. Doora/ Barefield beat Clarecastle/Ballyea 2-5 to 1-2.

In play off for bronze Clarecastle/Ballyea beat Sixmilebridge/ Kilmurry 5-8 tp 6-3.

The final was a very good contest between Newmarket on Fergus and Doora/Barefield, the Doora boys (pictured) proved much the stronger and came out

winner 2-4 to 1-1. Doora/Barefield are the first to receive the John Stack Memorial Cup which was presented to them by John’s wife Mary Stack who is mother of our county secretary Maurette.

RESULT 1st Doora/Barefield – Theo Cahill, Matthew Clune Hession, Adam Considine, Ryan Dul-laghan, Darren Geoghan, Jack Kennedy, Ronan Lahiff, Luke Moloney, Evan Miniter, Luke Morrissey, Ruairi Murphy, Finn O’Dwyer, Ben O’Loughlin, Hector O’Halloran, Colin Quinn, James Rice 2nd Newmarket on Fergus – Cathal Corry, Noah Donlon, Jamie Hartnett, Conor Higgins, Cian Jones, Adam Kelly, Conor Kenny, Jack Kirby, Alex Mc Keogh, Eoghan Mc Namara, Sam Murphy, Paudi O’Brien, Adam O’Dea, Connor O’Gorman, Ryan O’Neill Fitzpatrick, Niall Sheedy.

3rd Clarecastle/Ballyea – Oran Barry, Aaron Browne, Darragh Conneally, Elliott

Concan-non, Ethan Considine, Darragh Cooney, Iarlaith Daly, Ollie Fitzgerald, Oisin Griffin, Sean O’Connell, Tiernan O’Looney, Cody O’Loughlin, Cillian Sheedy, Charlie Vaughan 4th Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry – Alex Cleary, Shane Fitzpatrick, Evan Flannery, Cathal Lid-dane, Mark Lynch, Mikey Moloney, Rian Mc Gowan, Tom Mc Hugh, MJ Mullins, Conor Murphy, Iarlaith Nagle, Cian O’Halloran, Jack O’Meara, Matthieu Purell, Barry Quinn, Daniel Spaight.

ROUNDERS

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Rounders competitions were held in Clarecastle GAA Grounds.

They were co ordinated by Jerry Murphy and his officials.

Girls U13 1st Clarecastle/Ballyea – Muirne Brosnan, Mary Carty, Ailbhe Concannon, Ava Con-sidine, Sally Fealy, Eabha Geraghty,

Sinead Hennessy, Ellen Keogh, Ciara Moran, Maci O’Loughlin, Vivienne Palka, Aoife Vaughan 2nd Quin/Clooney Red – Amy Broderick, Sadbh Burke, Brighid Felle, Ailbhe Greene, So-phie Husband, Breelan Hynes, Sarah Mc Grath, Kelly Anne Mc Mahon, Jenny O’Brien, Rose Rogers, Kate Tighe, Jessie Titley Walsh 3rd Quin/Clooney Green – Heather Broderick, Aoibhe Burke, Evanne Canny, Fia Hynes, Fiona Killeen, Neasa O’Brien, Kate Quinlan, Lexi Quinn, Grace Rodgers Boys U13 In the semi final Clarecastle/Ballyea beat Quin/Clooney they then beat Doora/ Barefield in Final 1st Clarecastle/Ballyea – Darragh Dormer, Pauric Geraghty O’Loughlin, Adam Gillan, Mi-chael Healy, Noah Healy, Oisin Lynch, Nathan Madden, Lorcan Murphy, Jude Quinn, Mi-chael Quinn, James Travers 2nd Doora/Barefield – Patrick Brooks, Michael Carmody, Matthew Clune Hession, Cillian Crowley, Kieran Fitzpatrick, Ben Kenneally, Luke Moloney, Mark O’Brien, Hector O’Halloran, Samuel O’Keeffe, Sam Roseingrave, Gearoid Thompson 3rd Quin/Clooney – Barra Gallagher, Lucas Harrison, Bobby Hayes, James Loughnane, Gearoid Mac Donnacha, John Mac Donnacha, James Shally, Patrick Shally, Donagh Skehan THROWBALL ROUNDERS U10 MIXED 1st Clarecastle/Ballyea Black ; 2nd Quin/Clooney Red; 3rd Doora/Barefield White; 4th Quin/Clooney Green

34

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

US Open 2025 at Oakmont Country Club

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH WHERE better for the 125th US Open to take place than at Oakmont Country Club?

You can certainly argue that a Shinnecock Hills or Pebble Beach venue has just as much history and prestige, but no course presents a challenge and dishes out punishment quite like Oakmont.

Nestled in a quaint corner of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and sitting adjacent to the Allegheny River, Oakmont Country Club has been causing golfers cries of joy and sighs of grief since the dawn of the 20th century.

Oakmont was the only golf course that architect Henry

C. Fownes ever designed and the club was officially established in 1903.

A team of 150 men and two dozen horses' hand-dug the land to create a 6,406yard course with a par of 80.

The official Oakmont yardage used for major championships today is a much more challenging 7,372 yardage with a par of 70.

During the 1930s, Fownes’ son William added the iconic contribution of the “Church Pews” stretches of turf that line the huge bunker on the left-hand side of the 3rd hole.

When asked if he could show how best to take a shot from the Church Pews during his practice round at the 2007 US Open, Tiger Woods replied “How to play out of it? You hit it right here,”

gesturing to the fairway and implying any shot hit from the Church Pews was doomed from the start.

Another regular talking point surrounding Oakmont’s difficulty is the condition of the rough should you veer away from the fairway.

It is the week where we watch the top players in the world fight hard to get under par. It is also a week where most of the players will look like your everyday golfer who struggles to break 80 which I think makes also good viewing for us every day golfers.

Rory McILroy is coming into this event under the radar, due to him not showing any form since his win at Augusta in April, however looking at his past record at the US Open finishing with two

second place finishes last year in 2024 being narrowly beaten by Bryson after missing two extremely short putts in the final three holes and also beaten in 2023 by one stroke by Wyndham Clark, Rory surely can't be ruled out as a contender.

In fact, Rory has been inside the top 10 for the last five US Opens with a second, second, fifth, eighth and ninth positions consecutively. Can he go one better this year and win this prestigious tournament and his second major in 2025.

Scottie Scheffler however has to be the favourite heading into this weekend with winning three out of four weekends recently, his consistency out on the course lately shows he has to be the bookies favourite. Bryson DeChambeau have taken to showcasing the long rough online with the latter claiming it’s “the hardest this golf course could ever play right now.” It’s been a wet week so far in Pennsylvania ahead of the 125th U.S. Open, but the angular and sloping greens are sure to be swift even with all the moisture. One thing’s for certain; we’re in for a treat this weekend, and whoever’s lifting the trophy come Sunday will have truly earned the title as the “US Open Champion.”

McEntee wins Curley's Lady Captain's Prize Tiermana Hunter wins in Galway

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: LADY captain’s (Mary Curley) prize to the men was played for last week when John McEntee (21) emerged as the winner of the 18 hole strokeplay competition with 66.

He won by a stroke from Ciaran Toohey (17) with John McInerney (24) in third with 69. Jason Considine won the gross with 73. The category winners were Enda Heaney (10) with 68, Mark Kenny (16) with 69, John Brack (19) with 72 and William Moloney (31) with 69.

Meanwhile captain John Coleman’s prize to the ladies was won by Bridget Hoey (23) with 73 nett. She won by a stroke from Jean Moloney (30) with Patrice Ryan (37) in third with 74.

Mary Lenihan (15) won the gross with 89 while the category winners were Ann O’Loughlin (18) with 75 nett, Maureen Lynch (39) with 75 nett and Sinead O’Sullivan (43) with 70 nett.

The weekly ladies competition was an 18 hole singles stableford event which was won by Rose Enright (21) with 40 points and she had two to spare over Helen Gallery (24). Third place with 37 points was Suzanne Deane (13).

Tuesday’s senior ladies outing was won by Carmel Verling and Judith Brazil with 60.7 from Phil Butler and Brid Cunningham with 60.8.

Thursday’s senior men’s team competition

was won by Pat Murphy, John Gavin, John Lillis and Michael Cusack with 76 points.

Thirty three golfers took part in the Friday open singles which was won

by Simon Daly (21) with 47 points. David Rushe (9) was second with 39 points followed by Geoffrey O'Toole (15), also with 39.

In the inter club competition, Ennis lost by two holes to Shannon in the Barton shield while there was also disappointment for the junior cup team who lost to Dromoland at Shannon 3.5 to 1.5.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at the weekend was the Whelan's Garage open singles.. Patrick Coleman (15) captured the honours with 41 points, one more than Des Murphy (26) with Mark Cottam (19) a point further back.

Tom Clancy (0) won the gross with 36 points while the category winners were Terry O'Hare (10) with 37 points, John Sherin (17) with 39 and Pat Murtagh (20) with 37.

The Shannonside club fundraiser team of 3 was won by Thomas Downes, Alan F Howard and Geremiah Brennan with 72 points. The best all ladies team award was won

by Mary Downes, Edel Crowley and Fiona Kinsella with 59 points.

Winner of the ladies competition, sponsored

by West Clare Physical Therapy, was Celia O'Grady (30) with 62 nett, followed by Mary O'Sullivan (29) with 68 nett. In

third place was Carmel O’Flaherty (49) with 68.

DROMOLAND: The men’s competition at the weekend was v par and was won by Niall Geragthy with 5up, one better than Diarmuid O’Connor with Patrick McCoy one further back on 3up.

Niall Woods won the gross with 3 up while Noel McMahon won the category for handicappers 20 and over with 1 up.

The mid week 9 hole competition was won by Patrick McCoy with 23 points from Diarmuid McMahon with 22 points and Anthony Kelly with 20.

Leslie O’Flynn won the ladies 18 hole strokeplay competition from Mairead Twomey with Cora O’Toole in third place while Julie Fitzgerald won the gross.

EAST CLARE: Winners of the ladies team of two competition on Sunday were Geraldine Finnegan and Deirdre O' Neill with 52 points, they had one to spare over Geraldine Finnegan and Maria Kennedy.

The ladies weekly competition was won by Celia Moloney, Amanda Dalton and Noreen Doyle.

The men’s singles stableford competition on Sunday was won by Seamus Mason (18) with 47 points, while the gross was won by Eoin Magill with 70.

WOODSTOCK: Brian Mulcahy (18) won the weekend’s club singles with 41 points while Lucas Kelly (3) won the gross with 33.

Winners in the HolmPatrick cup qualifier in aid of Vision Ireland were Gerry Kelly (10) and Noel Moloney (11) with 50 points.

Former Kilmaley and Clare hurler Alan Markham (3) was the winner of last week’s open singles at Woodstock with 42 points. Ian Myatt (10) with David O'Brien (16) a further two points back on 38 points in third spot.

Last week’s ladies singles was won by Marianne McGough with 30 points. The ladies 18 hole stableford competition was won by Kathleen McEnery with 33 points, with one to spare over Deirdre Molyneaux.

Holly's Haven Pharmacy will sponsor Woodstock’s new Friday evening mixed 9 hole series which got underway last Friday when the winners were John Clune, Kevin Burke, Mary Morgan and Edel Burke with 22 points.

The play in pink charity fundraiser at Woodstock was another huge success. The ladies modified team of four was won by the all East Clare team of Rachel Whelan (16), Evelyn Skehan (18), Breeda Mc Carthy (30) and Maureen Clune (32) with 93 points. They had one to spare over the Dromoland team of Anne Kilker (34), Bridgette O'Keeffe (38), Loraine O'Sullivan (51) and Sinead Keogh (52).

In third place with 87 points were Chaye Kelly (8), Mary Mc Namara (20), Eilis Neville (22) and Marie McNamara (37).

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

CLARE greyhound owners tasted success in Galway, Limerick and Kerry over the past week.

The opening round heats of the Anne Cheevers Memorial A3 525 Yards Stake formed the spine of Saturday night’s card in Galway.

In the second heat Claudegreengrass led by over five lengths towards halfway, however the Supping Away Syndicate owned Tiermana Hunter having overcome early crowding, then took aim at the leader.

Approaching the home bend Tiermana Hunter (Ballyhimikin Jet-Tiermana Jetty) switched to the outside of Claudegreengrass and the Colm Fitzgerald of Kilrush-trained runner gradually wore his rival down to prevail by a length at the line in 29.18.

In the final heat Aulton Joxer trapped best from his trap three berth and the Vincent McKenna trained runner (Ballymac Cashout & Jumeirah Genie) stayed on well to defeat Stonepark Sam by a length and a half in 29.11.

Having met serious trouble on her two most recent outings the Kay Lynch of Quin-owned Cragataska Black took full advantage of the slight drop in grade as the daughter of Skywalker Logan & Drombeg Dancer made all the running to land this A6 graded contest to three lengths in 29.46 to score for a sixth time.

In the concluding A5 graded the Scattery Syndicate of West Clareowned Scattery Beauty (Ballymac Cashout-Work Your Head) had a come-from-behind win to beat On The Latt by a neck in 29.29.

The top graded contest on Friday was an A2 affair over 525 yards and as the traps rose, the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Knockanoura Kate was away smartly, closely attended to by Rylane Master with this pair opening a three length advantage. Racing along the back the Martin Williams of Quinowned Knockanoura Kate continued to set the fractions out front with Rylane Master never more than a half

length adrift. Rounding the home turn Knockanoura Kate (Burgess Bucks-Crokers Wish) drew clear to score by two & half lengths in 29.14.

In the opening heat of the Text A5 Tri-Distance Stake the Donal Duggan of Tulla owned and trained Rylane Lass reeled in Piercefield Jet and between the final two bends the daughter of Burgess Bucks & Notimetotalk eased clear to score by a length and a half in 29.45.

In the opening contest over 350 yards Heavenly Prince was all the rage in the betting but as the traps rose the Tony Brigdale of Ennis-owned Blaze Banter was just about best away and the son of Blastoff Kia & Nitro Midget went on to score by three and a half lengths from Miss Doris in 19.69.

In the concluding A7 graded contest, the Michael Malone of Ennistymon-owned Substance (Slippery Robert-Be Slow Teresa) was not for catching as she stayed on to score by six lengths the one in 29.87.

Snuggie Bunty recorded career win number 20 in Limerick on Thursday in 29.48 for Breda Casey and Myles Cummins from Newmarket-on-Fergus, and Donie Duggan had success with Washington Sky who stopped the clock in 28,87m.

Friday’s card saw the time club derby A4 sweepstake commence, and there was a heat victory for Burnpark class for the Brownes from Kilmihil in 29.11.

In the evening finale, Ballynew Sally notched her first win for Miltown Malbay’s Ciara Burke, in 29.04.

On Saturday, Flyers Minnie caught the eye with a 28.62 victory for Tullabrack trainer Colm Fitzgerald and the Zero Zero Syndicate.

Highview Ben set tongues wagging when he stopped the clock in 28.14 for the VHR Syndicate spearheaded by Tommy Hegarty and Seanie McMahon, for career win ten.

In Tralee, there was success for Camerooney, owned by Ennis’ Robert Carkill & trained by James O’Regan, who was first home in the Kingdom Stadium Novice Stakes rd1.

35

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ROGER G CAREY, ARDANE, BALLYMULCASHEL, KILKISHEN, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Roger G Carey intends to apply for planning permission for development comprising: 1) the demolition of existing side and rear extensions to existing cottage, 2) demolition of existing garage and shed, 3) decommission and removal of existing septic tank, 4) to construct new side and rear extensions to the cottage, 5) construct a new domestic garage, 6) to install a new wastewater treatment system and polishing filter, and 7) construct a new stone roadside boundary wall including all associated site works at Ardane, Ballymulcashel, Kilkishen, 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 CO COUNCIL RINE, QUIN, CO CLARE Theresa Reddan seeks planning permission for development as follows: A To retain detached converted domestic garage for use as a separate residential unit and to provide separate connections to services to this residential unit.

B Permission to alter and extend the same residential unit including provision of ancillary garden shed in lieu of existing garden shed (proposed to be demolished).

C Relocate the vehicular entrance to the residential unit referred to above, which also serves the existing main house and access to applicant’s farmland at the rear, including proposed access to the (yet to be constructed house) previously granted permission under planning ref 22457.

D Permission is also

sought to subdivide the property into 3 separate plots for residential use (excluding the farmland to the rear) and including all associated site works & services at above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MAIN STREET, MOUNTSHANNON, CO. CLARE Take notice that Neil & Eibhlín Dunne intend to apply for planning permission for development at Main Street, Mountshannon, Co. Clare. The development will consist of 3no. tourist rental cabins, upgrade vehicular access entrance and 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 CO. COUNCIL RATHLAHEEN NORTH / MUCKANAGH (STUDDERT), NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Kieran Woods intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted cubicle unit and associated site works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LOCATION: BALLYCASEY BEG, CULLEEN, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE The development consist / consists of 1. Land reclamation for agricultural purposes by levelling ground between two contours using imported inert soil and stone class (170504) concrete class (170101) for roadways, together with the associated site works.

2. Retention permission of land reclamation to existing lands for agricultural use under planning references 20712 and 21347.

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 euro, 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.

Signed: Fergal O Grady, Rathbeg, Newmarket on fergus, Co Clare.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL AUGHINISH, CO. CLARE H91 XV8K Permission for the retention of a dwelling house, septic tank, garden office, storage sheds and all asso-

ciated services on revised site boundaries is being sought on behalf of Bridget Louise Fahy. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL BALLAGHFADDA WEST, CLARECASTLE, CO. CLARE V95 A0W9 Permission for the (1) construction of an extension to side & rear of existing dwelling house, (2) alterations to existing elevations, (3) the removal of existing entrances & the construction of new single entrance & new front boundary wall and (4) all associated site works is being sought on behalf of Tony Murphy. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKLISCRANE MILTOWN MALBAY, CO CLARE. V95 YH34 Take notice that Catherine Smyth intends to apply for permission to retain the one bedroomed ancillary residential unit, for the enjoyment of the occupants of the main house and all associated and ancillary site works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceed-

ing the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYVOE, DOOLIN, CO CLARE. Take notice that Marian McDonagh and Colin O Donoghue intend to apply for permission to build a dwelling house, garage, install a wastewater treatment system and all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DEERPARK, DOORA, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. PLANNING NOTICE We, Brian Burke & Aisling Wixted intend to apply for permission for development at this site. Deerpark, Doora, Ennis, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of Construction of a Bungalow Dwelling, Effluent Treatment System and Together with site access & all associated site works.

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

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the 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

Planning

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILFENORA, CO CLARE. V95 YH39 Take notice that Julie Mc Mahon intends to apply for permission to retain the revised boundaries, which differ from those previously granted under Ref 01/263 at the above location.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 27 BALLYCASEYMORE HILL, SHANNON, CO. CLARE. I Tom Lowry intend to apply to the above authority for permission for retention of an extension to the side of the dwelling house and a garage to the side of the dwelling house at 27 Ballycaseymore Hill, Shannon, Co. Clare, V14 TH77. 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 to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

36

Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Recent Deaths

ANNIVERSARY

Akamnonu, Dr. Nnaji (Fabian) Shannon Akamnonu, Dr. Nnaji (Fabian) Ruan Nihill Geraldine (5th Anniversary)

In loving memory of Geraldine Nihill (Nee Barry), Ros na Ri, Shanaway Road, Ennis and Roslevan who passed away on June 15th 2020.

Memories of you bring us closer, we will never be apart. Your beauty, love, and kindness forever in our heart.

We remember the happy times and thoughts we hold most dear. Our hearts long since broken that you’re no longer here.

Sadly missed forever by family, relatives, friends, neighbours, colleagues and all who were fortunate to know Geraldine.

Fifth Anniversary Mass takes place on Saturday June 14th at 6.30pm in The Cathedral, Ennis.

Obituaries

Young (née Ryan), Nuala Feakle Crosse, Jimmy (Diamond) Ennistymon Fenniman, Noreen Barefield Fenniman, Noreen Ennis Greene (née Foley), Peggy Carrigaholt

McMahon, Martin Kilfenora

Bugler, Eileen Ennis

NEALE, JAKE Mountshannon

Crotty (née O’Toole), Mary O’Briensbridge

O’Sullivan, Aidan Spanish Point HOGAN, Liam (William) Newmarket-on-Fergus

Donovan (née Ryan), Carmel Kilkishen

Malone (née Sheehan), Bríd Ennis

SHANAGHER (née O’ Gorman), Regina Newmarket-on-Fergus

Mc QUAIDE, Angela Sixmilebridge

DALY, John Killimer

Meaney, Thomas (Tom) Lissycasey

Gilmartin (née Donnelly), Margaret Lissycasey

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Thursday, Jun 12, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz 1.

A jail once stood on which road in Ennis?

Station Road Quin Road Lahinch Road

6.

Ennis was named Ireland’s tidiest town in what year?

2024 2015 2021

2.

In what year did Ennis last host Fleadh Cheoil nah Éireann?

2020 2015 2017

7.

Eire Óg last won the Clare SHC in what year?

2005 1990 2019

3.

In which James Joyce novel is the Queen’s Hotel in Ennis referenced?

Dubliners Ulysses Finnegan’s Wake

8.

Banner GAA club were formed in what year?

1974 1988 1977

4.

What is the population of Ennis as per 2022?

27,923 30,435 19,443

9.

Which political party has Ennis long been seen as a stronghold for?

Sinn Féin Fine Gael Fianna Fáil

5.

A statue of which Irish leader is located outside the courthouse?

Michael Collins Daniel O’Connell Eamon DeValera

Movies to see this week

Scan here to see what’s on

10. Which university opened an Ennis campus in 2019?

UL NUIG TUS/LIT

ANSWERS 2021 1990 1977 Fianna Fáil TUS/LIT Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Station Road 2017 Ulysses 27,923 Eamon DeValera

Spot the Difference

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

Last weeks Answers . Crest missing above entrance . Pocket tie missing . Strap on bag missing . intercom system missing on wall

Cruinniú na nÓg Killaloe Photo by Liam Burke

. Sticker missing on door . Button missing on shirt . Line missing on wall (right)

39

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 12, 2025

Puzzle PUZZLE 47

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

THURSDAY, OCT 6 2022

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES PUZZLESJun OCT12th 6th

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HOW TO PLAY

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SUDOKU

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.

WORD SEARCH

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