The Clare Echo 13/08/26

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Aug 31, 13,2024 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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SWEPT AWAY IN FEAKLE South-East Clare

wind turbine opposition hits highest level

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Ballynacally’s Amy Killeen leads the brush dance with Tony Hebden from Cornwall on pipes and Hamburg’s Hauke on whistle at The Dublins aka Moloney’s Bar during the Feakle Festival.

Photo by Ruthie Griffin

OPPOSITION to wind turbines in SouthEast Clare has been discussed at the highest level within the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment.

At a recent event in Ardnacrusha to mark Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, the Department’s Secretary General made reference to the prolific signs in the county objecting to the presence of wind turbines.

Within South-East Clare, there are proposals for three separate developments. Ørsted are applying to build eleven turbines with a tip height of 180m in Oatfield.

FuturEnergy Knockshanvo DAC is applying for planning permission for the construction and operation of a nine turbine wind farm and associated site development works in Knockshanvo. A 50MW windfarm which includes twelve turbines is

planned by Limerick firm, Ballycar Green Energy.

Villages such as Broadford and Bridgtown have signs erected which object to the wind turbines. Such displays were referenced by Secretary General, Oonagh Buckley while in Ardnacrusha, “There was acceptance to Ardnacrusha and people saw the good it would bring. You all passed on your way here signs up saying no wind turbines, it is a very different narrative on electrification. We are now seeing a very strong pushback against slogans or previous pitches”.

CEO of EirGrid, Jack Marley in response said local communities need to see a benefit to proposed projects while referencing the contentions plans to pipe water from Clare and Tipperary along a 170km pipeline to Dublin and surrounding counties.

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Rian O’Donnell celebrates scoring the winning goal for Crusheen against Broadford at Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Petition for footpath after concerns over speeding on Kilrush approach road

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

A PETITION from residents in West Clare calling for a footpath and traffic calming measures has renewed concerns over speeding on the approach to Kilrush.

The issue was raised by Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, where he called for a review of speeding and traffic calming measures at Leadmore, as well as the exploration of a footpath with public lighting linking the area to Kilrush. He highlighted a petition signed by residents seeking action.

Cllr Gould said the issue had previously been raised by Independent Cllr Ian Lynch but little progress had been made.

He described speeding in the area as “dangerous”, particularly during the summer months as traffic increases between Kilrush and Kilkee, and said residents could not understand why the long-sought project had yet to be delivered.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) said efforts had been made before the Covid-19 pandemic to advance the project, but said requirements set by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) had proved a major obstacle. “The speeds cars are going is unbelievable,” he said.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) said, “We need to explain the challenges to people and that we are not ignoring them,” he said, adding that some of the issues were outside the council’s control.

In a written response, Senior Executive

Engineer Alan Kennelly said the proposed footpath would be located almost entirely along a section of the N67 subject to a 100 km/h speed limit, meaning approval from Transport Infrastructure Ireland would be required before the project could proceed.

He said the proposal was likely to be inconsistent with national planning policy for National Secondary Roads and, as a result, it was considered unlikely that TII approval would be forthcoming.

Mr Kennelly also cited engineering challenges including the narrow road width, peat embankments and nearby property boundaries, which would make construction difficult and expensive.

He said construction costs alone were likely to exceed six figures, with additional expenditure required for land acquisition, accommodation works and major earthworks.

While Clare County Council has no current plans to advance the project, Mr Kennelly said the Municipal District would continue to engage with the elected member and explore future funding opportunities. He added that an appropriate funding source would need to be identified before a project of this scale could proceed.

Mr Kennelly said he had met local residents and explained the issues involved, describing the proposal as one that had been under discussion “for a while”.

“If we got the blessing from TII we could pursue funding, but at the minute it would be in breach of national road guidelines policy,” he said.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jul13, 2, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 2026

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Safety fears mount over Cooraclare to Cree road ahead of Irish Open

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

CALLS have been made for urgent resurfacing works on the road between Cooraclare and Cree, with councillors warning it could become a safety risk as traffic increases during the Irish Open.

The issue was raised by Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, where he called on Clare County Council to review the R483 between Cooraclare and Cree, citing serious subsidence and the additional traffic expected to use the route during the championship.

Cllr Gould said the stretch of road, extending for approximately three kilometres, was “in a bad way” and had become “dangerous to drive”, particularly for buses and heavy goods vehicles.

He warned that traffic on the route was expected to increase significantly during the Irish Open, with ferry services operating twice an hour bringing additional visitors through the area.

Cllr Gould asked whether the road would be considered as part of this year’s roads programme, saying people in Cooraclare and Cree were “very disappointed” that more had not been done.

“It will be the laughing stock of West Clare if the road is left this way during the golf,” he said.

 Scenes from the Doonbeg St Patrick’s Day parade earlier this year reminding people that the Irish Open is coming this year Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Cathaoirleach of the district, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF), also supported the motion, describing the stretch between Cooraclare and Cree as “one of the worst parts of West Clare regional roads”.

He said he feared “they will wake up one morning and a bus will have gone inside and people will be injured”, adding that “the road itself needs to be addressed urgently”.

Cllr Shannon said he would continue to call for additional funding to carry out the necessary works.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) said the road is an important regional route, particularly as it provides a link to the ferry services connecting West Clare with North Clare.

She commended council staff

for the work already carried out on nearby roads ahead of the Irish Open, but said it had only served to highlight the poor condition of the remaining stretch.

“When one section of road is done, it really highlights the one that isn’t done,” she said.

Cllr McInerney stressed that the resurfacing works were needed “no matter what is coming”, saying the road required attention regardless of the upcoming championship.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) also supported the motion, saying the road was structurally “in an awful way”.

He warned that conditions become particularly “lethal” during the winter due to frost and heavy rain, while in the summer “the

road is just tar”.

Describing the level of local frustration as justified, he said: “There’s a lot of anger over this and rightly so,” adding that residents felt the road had simply been “left behind”.

Responding, Senior Executive Engineer Alan Kennelly acknowledged the deteriorating condition of the road but said the Municipal District did not currently have funding available to carry out the works.

“It is in need of some attention,” he said, adding that the road would be “considered seriously”.

In written response, Mr Kennelly explained the section of the R483 between Cooraclare and Cree is a “bog rampart” road, meaning it is built on peat and remains susceptible to settlement, surface deformation, cracking and drainage-related defects.

He noted that works completed near Alva, outside Cree, last year had successfully addressed a long-standing flooding issue, while the affected 300-metre section is due to be resurfaced as part of this year’s roads programme.

Mr Kennelly added that resurfacing works between Behan’s Cross and Cree have recently been completed, with further improvement works along the route programmed for later this year as part of the 2026 Municipal District works schedule.

Young boy injured after colliding with tractor

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A YOUNG boy was airlifted from Ogonnelloe on Monday evening after colliding with a tractor.

The Clare Echo understands that the boy was riding his bicycle on the side of the L8192 and lost control which veered him straight in the direction of an oncoming tractor.

Serious injuries were sustained by the boy who had to be airlifted to University Hospital Galway for treatment.

From Galway, he was transported to Crumlin Children’s Hospital. The boy collided with the spikes of the tractor, the injuries from which required surgery and he now remains in a stable condition.

Emergency services responded and were heading in the direction of the incident after 18:00 on Monday evening.

According to a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána, the boy remains in a stable condition.

Gardaí are investigating the road traffic collision which occurred on the L8192 Bealkelly, Ogonnnelloe.

“A full forensic examination of the scene has been completed, and the road has since been reopened”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Clare Credit Unions: Supporting communities, empowering women, building success together CLARE Credit Unions are proud to once again partner with Clare Camogie as title sponsors of the Clare Credit Unions Camogie Adult Championships.

At first glance, a sporting organisation and a financial cooperative may seem very different. Yet Clare Camogie and the Credit Union movement share many of the same values: community, inclusion, commitment, teamwork and a belief in helping people achieve their potential.

Every week, throughout Clare, players of all ages take to the field representing their clubs, communities and families. Behind every match is a dedicated network of volunteers, coaches, officers, parents and supporters who give their time freely to ensure our games continue to thrive. The same spirit of volunteerism and local commitment is at the heart of every credit union across the county.

Supporting women and girls in sport is more important than ever. Clare Camogie Chairperson, Fergal O’Brien has highlighted “the significant opportunities that camogie offers for participation in sport, leadership, resilience, confidence-building and personal development, while creating a sense of belonging and community that extends far beyond the playing field.” “The growth and success of Clare Camogie,

in partnership with Clare Credit Unions and other partners, is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved in the sport and the positive impact it continues to have across the county.”

As community-owned financial cooperatives, Clare’s Credit Unions exist to serve local people. Every loan taken out, every savings account opened and every service used helps strengthen our credit unions and, in turn, enables us to rein-

vest in the communities we serve. Partnerships such as this are possible because of the continued support of our members. When people choose to do business with their local credit union, they are helping to support local initiatives, organisations and activities that enrich community life throughout Clare.

The Clare Credit Unions Camogie Adult Championships showcase the very best of our communities. They bring

people together, celebrate sporting excellence and create memories that last a lifetime.

We are delighted to play a part in supporting this important competition and in helping to

ensure that camogie continues to flourish across the county.

As the Championships get underway, we would like to wish every club, player, management team and supporter the very best of luck. We also extend our sincere thanks to the countless volunteers within clubs and throughout Clare Camogie whose dedication, passion and hard work make these championships possible year after year. They are the backbone of our sporting communities and deserve enormous recognition for the contribution they make.

We look forward to another exciting championship season and to celebrating the skill, determination and community spirit that make Clare Camogie so special.

42 teams make up this years Clare Credit Unions C a m o gie Adult Championships over the 5 grades, with approx. 1,200 girls lining out for their Club.

The support from Clare Credit Unions for the Adult Championships has without doubt helped showcase the

talents of these players to a wider audience.

The Senior Championship, in 2 groups of 5, has been slightly restructured this year with games commencing on Friday 14th August and the Group stages running every weekend with the final on Sat 03rd October. The Intermediate Championship in 2 groups of 4 also starts on 14th August, with games fortnightly and the final on Sat 17th October.

5 Teams make up the Junior A Championship with the final on Sunday 18th October. The Junior B (9 teams) and the Junior C (10 teams) commence Sat 15th August with Finals fixed for Sun 18th Oct. Fixtures details for all games will appear in this publication each week and can also be found on the Clare Camogie website and social media channels.

Best of luck to all involved in the 2026 Clare Credit Unions Camogie Adult Championships.

Clare Credit Unions is a collaborative of Derg, Ennistymon, Kilrush, and St. Francis Credit Unions, with 15 offices across the county, 80 local staff, a combined loan book of over €130 million, and more than 72,000 members. This means wherever you are in Clare, there is a local Credit Union nearby. www.clarecreditunions.ie www.clarecamogie.com

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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Caherhurley Plant Nursery back to full strength after owner’s health scare

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

CAHERHURLEY Organic Nursery in Bodyke has fully reopened to the public, with opening hours of 9am5pm operating seven days a week..

After a turbulent time for Gert the owner, his health issues are resolving and Caherhurley is back on its feet again.

The nursery has improved, thanks to the help of volunteers, trainees and students of horticultural colleges.

Caherhurley Nursery is a place where gardeners love to go for their plants, because it’s exceptional in many ways: It’s a nursery where plants are slowly grown outside on a windy hillside, without artificial fertilizers to ensure that they are hardy and they can survive the challenging harsh Irish climate.

Once they grow there, they will survive everywhere.

Also, the plants are certified organic, that’s the only guarantee that no bee-killing chemicals were used.

A wide range of unusual herbaceous hardy perennials are grown, to offer something else than what’s generally

l Gert and his family on the farm in Bodyke

available.

Plants are propagated by the growers themselves and produced in the nursery, nothing is bought in. In this respect Caherhurley Nursery is unique, because most Irish nurseries grow plants on that are imported as young plants from abroad.

Accoring to the team at Caherhurley, “People find it refreshing to buy from a nursery, where they can get free expert advice on the choices of their plants.

“And it’s great to see how

they are propagated and grown.”

To visit Caherhurley Organic Nursery in Bodyke, the Eircode is V94K3E and everyone is welcome.

For more information, visit them online at the website www.caherhurleynursery.com or follow them on Facebook and Instagram for regular updates.

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Ex-Garda to be sentenced for disclosure of Garda PULSE data

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

Ex-Garda, Shane Flanagan is due to be sentenced next month for the unauthorised disclosure of Garda PULSE personal data.

This follows Judge Francis Comerford fixing September 15 for the sentencing hearing of Ennis man, Mr Flanagan (40) and a co-accused in the case, Colm Meere.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Comerford set the sentencing date for next month for the ex-Garda after not being able to proceed with it due to the solicitors’ dispute with the Dept of Justice over the criminal legal aid flat fee. Counsel for Mr Flanagan, Aaron Desmond BL said that the case is impacted by the impasse.

Mr Flanagan was appearing in court via video-link from Midlands prison where he is serving a seven-year jail term for inciting strangers to rape a female colleague.

Judge Comerford noted the case has already been in a few times for sentencing and the September 15 sentencing date will be dependent on the solicitors’ dispute being resolved.

Flanagan, who resigned from the Gardaí last March,

 Shane Flanagan

has previously entered guilty pleas to six PULSE offences from 14 counts.

Judge Comerford asked Mr Flanagan if he would like to come to court in person for the sentencing or appear in court via video-link on September 15. Mr Flanagan said that he would prefer video-link if possible.

The court heard previously that only one of the 14 victims of Mr Flanagan’s unauthorised PULSE data disclosures has provided a victim impact statement.

Mr Flanagan’s co-accused, Colm Meere (45) of Knockanean, Tulla Road, Ennis, has entered seven guilty pleas for his role in the offences.

Mr Meere has pleaded guilty to inciting Flanagan on January 12, 2020 to obtain and disclose personal data on the Garda Pulse sys-

tem regarding an individual with the initials L.L. to him.

Mr Meere has also pleaded guilty to inciting Mr Flanagan to obtain and disclose personal data on the Garda Pulse system regarding an individual with the initials, F.S. on February 13, 2020.

Mr Meere entered guilty pleas to inciting Mr Flanagan to disclose personal data on individuals from the Garda Pulse system concerning R.N. on April 13, 2020; on W.S. on May 3, 2020; on G.L. on June 16, 2020 and on I.S. on September 24, 2020.

Mr Meere has also pleaded guilty to a drug trafficking offence where on April 14 2022 to having in his possession at Henry Street Garda Station, Limerick a tick list, bag sealer, tin foil, scissors, baggies and a mobile phone, in circumstances where there was a reasonable inference that the items were in his possession or control for a purpose in connection with drug trafficking.

Counsel for Mr Meere, Patrick Whyms (BL (instructed by solicitor, Daragh Hassett) applied for a Probation Report on his client and Judge Comerford directed the report be carried out.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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Clare’s Fittest Superstars to raise funds for Cahercalla Community Care and Ennis RFC

In April 2025, Cahercalla Community Care celebrated its 30th Anniversary.

This date celebrates the generosity of the people of County Clare, who formally took over ownership and established Ireland’s first community-owned hospital.

A lot has changed during this time, however, the ownership remains in the hands of the people of County Clare.

Cahercalla Community Care prides itself on the great care the residents get from our dedicated and passionate staff who strive to promote the ‘home from home’ atmosphere within the facility.

Participating or donating to the ‘Clare’s Fittest Superstars’ fundraiser will directly enhance the daily lives of our residents at Cahercalla Community Care.

Proceeds will support a wide range of activities, wellness initiatives, and lifestyle services.

Your generosity will help us provide more meaningful experiences and a vibrant, engaging environment for the people who

have come to regard Cahercalla as their home.

Meanwhile, Ennis Rugby Football Club has officially launched an ambitious fundraising campaign following the granting of planning permission for a transformational €2.5 million redevelopment of its facilities at Drumbiggle, Ennis.

The project represents the largest single investment in the club’s history and will deliver a modern clubhouse, pitch and match lighting upgrades, enhanced gym and training facilities, improved community spaces, upgraded player amenities, expanded parking and significant site improvements designed to serve members and the wider community for generations to come.

Ennis RFC has a proud tradition spanning generations and continues to be one of the leading rugby clubs in the region, providing opportunities for players of all ages and abilities while serving as an important community hub for Ennis and County Clare.

 Cahercalla Community Care; (inset top) Ennis RFC development plans and (inset bottom) organiser of Clare’s Fittest Superstars, Davy Fitzgerald

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Ennis News

Clare Crafts “Meet the Maker” event takes place as part of Heritage Week

AS PART of Heritage Week 2026, the Ennis Tourist Information Centre is delighted to host the Clare Crafts Meet the Maker Event from 15th to 23rd August, offering visitors a wonderful opportunity to meet some of County Clare’s talented craftspeople and learn more about the skills, traditions, and creativity behind their work.

With activities taking place between 10:00am to 4:00pm, visitors are invited to drop into the Tourist Information Centre on Arthur’s Row, Ennis (V95 RX78), located in the same building as Clare Museum, to enjoy informal demonstrations, browse handcrafted pieces, and chat directly with the makers themselves. *Please note that attendance times of crafters may vary.

Throughout the week, a variety of local craft workers will showcase their creations across a range of disciplines, including:

 Display of handmade gifts from Clare Crafts

• • • •

Crochet Silverwork Woodworking Jewellery Making

• Ceramics • Candle Making Guests will have the chance to discover the inspiration

behind each craft, learn about both traditional and contemporary techniques, and gain an insight into the dedication and artistry involved in producing handmade work.

Whether you are a local resident, a visitor to Clare, or simply someone with an interest in arts, culture, and heritage, the Clare Crafts Meet the Maker Event promises a welcoming and engaging experience. It is a unique opportunity to support local artisans while celebrating Clare’s rich tradition of creativity and craftsmanship.

Admission is free, and no booking is required.

We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to the Ennis Tourist Information Centre during Heritage Week for this special celebration of local craftsmanship and creativity.

For more information about Clare Crafts and upcoming fairs, visit: www. clarecrafts.ie.

Two people hospitalised following collision on N85

by Michael Fitzgerald were using the busy news@clareecho.ie

TWO people have been hospitalised following a traffic collision outside of Ennis on Tuesday evening.

The incident occurred at approximately 5.45pm on the N85 relief road on the approach to the M18 motorway, in westbound lanes between the Skehanagh and Clare Abbey roundabouts.

The scene was attended by Units of Clare County Fire and Rescue Service from Ennis station. As well as National Ambulance Service paramedics and Gardaí who attended the scene.

A lengthy traffic jam was caused by the collision as many people

commuter route at the time to return from work. The incident resulted in the left hard shoulder being blocked as a large bottleneck of traffic formed behind the site of the collision.

The passenger and driver from one of the cars involved were brought to hospital for treatment with non-serious injuries. The driver of the second vehicle in the crash was assessed at the scene by emergency services but was not brought to hospital.

The road was fully reopened at 7.15pm that evening.

Childcare expansion planned for Ennis as centre reaches capacity

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

PLANS have been lodged to expand Clare Family Resource Centre’s childcare facility in Ennis, with the proposed extension aimed at creating additional places amid growing demand for services.

The application to Clare County Council seeks permission to construct a detached extension to the existing childcare facility at Watery Road.

The development would provide two new childcare rooms, sleeping accommodation, eating areas, sanitary and nappy changing facilities, along with additional car parking, landscaping and associated site works.

Planning documents state that the Clare Family Resource Centre’s existing childcare facility is operating at full capacity and has a substantial waiting list, with demand for places continuing to increase.

The proposed extension is specifically designed to increase capacity for children aged between one and three years, an age group identified in the application as experiencing a shortage of childcare places.

The Clare Family Resource Centre is a registered charity established in 1996 to provide community childcare, childcare training and

family support services in Clare.

Planning documents state that the organisation’s childcare service takes an inclusive, holistic approach aimed at supporting the economic, social and cultural interests of families in the region.

According to the application, the proposal forms part of the centre’s long-term strategy to respond to increasing demand for childcare services in Ennis while providing modern accommodation designed in line with current childcare regulations and Universal Design principles.

The extension has also been designed to support an application under the Department of Children, Disability and Equality’s Building Blocks Extension Scheme 2027, which aims to increase childcare capacity nationwide, particularly for children aged one to three years.

The proposed building would be located adjacent to the existing childcare facility and connected by a new accessible pedestrian route. It would also include secure outdoor play areas, accessible parking spaces and associated site infrastructure.

Planning documents state that the proposal would make use of adjoining lands owned

by Clare County Council, with the local au-

thority’s consent included as part of the application because there is insufficient space to extend the existing childcare building within its current site.

A submission or observation in relation to the application can be made in writing to the planning authority for a prescribed fee of €20.

This must be done within five weeks of the authority first receiving the planning application.

The planning application was lodged on July 30, with submissions accepted until Wednesday September 2. A decision is due on September 23.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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Baarney hoping to be crowned the GOAT

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

BAARNEY McKenna, a two year old pygmy goat, will represent Clare at this year’s annual Nose of Tralee competition.

Baarney’s brother Baanjo represented Clare in the competition last year but was unsuccessful. This year, their owner Maddy Dunne hopes that the novelty and uniqueness of her entry will pay off.

Giving some background to her two pets, Maddy explains that “Baarney will be two in September. Baanjo represented Clare last year.

I’m a proud Clare woman so I just wanted something to represent that as well. The two boys are solely pets. I have a border collie as well called Friday whose their chief minder”, the Kilimer woman adds.

Daughter of the renowned folk singer, Patrick ‘The Pecker’ Dunne, Maddy notes that the pygmy goats make for ideal pets due to their independence, although some close care is still necessary “They kind of do their own thing. In the winter time, you’d have to mind them and put them in because with their coats they’re not waterproof ”.

“You couldn’t put jackets or anything on them either because that’s how they regulate their temperature. You have to keep them in in the winter when it’s wet or there’s bad weather. During the summer it’s a lot handier because they’d just be out grazing”, she continues.

While the aptly-named Baanjo (‘Baa’ like a goat) received great support from the people of Clare, he was ultimately unsuccessful in be-

ing crowned 2026 Nose of Tralee.

Maddy is still hopeful that Baarney will go far this year however. “If he gets the support and people get behind him we could be talking again the end of August”, Dunne told this writer.

Baarney is the only goat entered into this year’s competition with the other 31 entries all being either cats or dogs, a factor which Maddy identifies could work to his advantage “That would be a kind of an advantage to him that he’s the only goat in it, he’d have the bit of uniqueness compared to the other entries.

We’re hoping for that, it didn’t give us the edge last year”.

Voting for this year’s Nose of Tralee is open from now until the 18th of August when the winner will be crowned.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

North Clare News

Ennistymon public toilets could reopen after vandalism forced closure

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

THE reopening of Ennistymon’s public toilets has been sought, with councillors arguing the facilities are essential for a town that is “extremely busy” year-round.

The issue was raised

by Cllr Shane Talty (FF) at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, where he called for immediate measures to reopen the public toilets, arguing that the recent investment in the facilities “cannot just be abandoned”.

Cllr Talty said the current situation was “not good enough”, pointing to Ennistymon’s “success story” in terms of

the number of businesses that remain open in the town.

The motion was seconded by Cllr Bill Slattery (FG), who said the facilities had been sought by the community for between 15 and 20 years before finally opening.

He noted that the toilets were well used, particularly by people walking near the Falls Hotel, and described their closure as “a huge loss to the town”.

Director of Service Carmel Kirby said she would “equally support” efforts to reopen the toilets but stressed that the council first needed to find a way to overcome the anti-social behav-

iour that had led to their closure.

She suggested meas-

ures to manage access to the facilities could be explored, including the

possibility of making a key available through the local library for people to request use of the toilets.

Cathaoirleach for the district, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF), also backed the proposal, saying the availability of public toilets was especially important given the influx of tourists to Clare.

“We want to present the best foot we can and these are the minimum requirements we need to have for our tourists coming into the west of Ireland,” he said.

Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) also formally supported the motion.

In a written response, Acting Senior Engineer

Paddy Tiernan said councillors would be aware that the public toilets were reopened in 2024 following a significant investment by Clare County Council, including refurbishment works and the installation of an external lift to improve accessibility.

However, he said the facilities, including the lift infrastructure, were subjected to repeated vandalism and anti-social behaviour in the months after reopening, ultimately forcing their closure.

Mr Tiernan said the Municipal District was “not opposed in principle” to reopening the toilets, but any decision

would have to be accompanied by measures to prevent further vandalism and ensure the long-term sustainability of the facility.

He said reopening the toilets would require a further significant investment to repair the damage, alongside appropriate maintenance and management arrangements.

While no funding has currently been identified, the Municipal District will examine the extent of the repairs required and the associated costs to help determine whether the facilities can be reopened and what funding options may be available

Businesses losing ‘thousands of euro’ amid Ennistymon public realm delays

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

FRUSTRATION is mounting over delays to the Ennistymon public realm project, with councillors warning that businesses are losing thousands of euro during the height of the tourism season.

The issue was raised under Any Other Business at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, where Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) said while people welcomed the public realm project, there was growing anger over the length of time the works were taking to complete.

He said local businesses, particularly restaurants, had lost “thousands of euros” in footfall as a result of the ongoing works.

Cllr Slattery said the project had entered its seventh week and claimed sections of the town had been dug up without any visible activity for days at a time.

He questioned why contractors were not working Saturdays to complete the project during the peak tourism season.

“The contractor is not

coming in to finish that project within a timeframe that is acceptable,” he said.

Backing the concerns, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) said residents and businesses had been informed earlier that day (July 21) that the closure of Parliament Street would remain in place until August 28.

He said the extension meant the busiest weeks of the tourism season were now being affected, creating significant disruption for businesses, visitors and elderly people trying to access the town.

Cllr Talty said many older people were now forced to park on the outskirts of Ennistymon before walking into the town centre.

“You can see them basically struggling to sustain themselves on those kind of walks in and out of the town,” he said.

He also questioned whether contractors delivering public projects were being held sufficiently accountable for delays, adding: “We need to be stronger on managing contractors to make good on the contracts that they are

taking out.”

In response, Director of Services Carmel Kirby acknowledged the concerns and said the council would continue engaging with the project management team.

She noted that sourcing specialist tradespeople could sometimes present difficulties and said similar issues had arisen during works in Ennis.

Acting Senior Engineer Paddy Tiernan said there has been no delay to the overall completion date of the project and said the extension of the Parliament Street closure was due to additional works requested by the ESB and the discovery of old culverts beneath the road.

Mr Tiernan said unforeseen issues were “unfortunately a risk” on projects involving old market towns and acknowledged the disruption the works were causing for local businesses.

“These public realm projects... it’s hard to see the light when you’re in the middle of them,” he said, adding that while the works were difficult in the short term, the completed project would

Photo byPáraic McMahon

ultimately benefit the town.

Cllr Slattery responded by questioning why underground issues had not been identified during earlier surveys, saying businesses were

“losing a fortune” while the project continued.

Mr Tiernan replied that while most underground services are identified in advance, some culverts were

likely more than 100 years old and had no records or maps, meaning they could only be discovered once excavation began.

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

West Clare News

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Too much stuff is online’ - West Clare councillors explore public meetings

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

THE proposal emerged during a discussion at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, where councillors discussed new ways of engaging with residents and young people.

Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) said local authorities continued to grapple with how to encourage people to become involved in local decision-making.

He suggested the municipal district consider holding meetings in community halls across West Clare, including areas such as Corofin and Liscannor.

“Too much stuff is online,” he said, arguing that taking meetings into communities would help tackle misinformation and make local government more accessible.

Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) recalled previous visits by primary and secondary school students to council meetings, describing them as a “fantastic” way of engaging young people before they were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Senior Executive Officer John O’Malley said the council’s Town Centre First programme had demonstrated how engaged young people could be when given the opportunity to participate and suggested the existing Town Team structure could help support future engagement.

He also asked whether

Process begins to have Kilbaha Pier road taken in charge by Clare County Council

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) Photo by John Mangan

councillors wanted to explore holding future municipal district meetings in other locations across West Clare, telling members the proposal would be investigated.

Cllr Shane Talty (FF) suggested councillors engage with secondary schools in North and West Clare over the next 12 months to assess whether they would be interested in hosting council meetings, saying a school hall could provide an opportunity to involve dozens of students.

Cathaoirleach Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) backed the proposal, saying councillors needed to connect more with

young people and local communities.

He also pointed to practical benefits of rotating meeting venues and potentially inviting community groups and residents to attend municipal district meeting’s as the council begins to explore the idea.

Director of Service Carmel Kirby said community engagement should extend beyond schools and include other groups with an interest in local issues.

Concluding the discussion, Cllr Lynch said previous meetings held in schools had shown that young people were more likely to engage if

discussions focused on issues relevant to them, rather than sitting through a full council meeting.

He also supported bringing meetings into communities but said residents needed to know in advance when meetings were taking place and be given opportunities to participate.

“If we’re going into the community, have a meeting for the community,” he said, suggesting local groups such as Tidy Towns should be invited to take part.

No formal decision was taken, but councillors agreed the proposal was worth exploring.

THE process to have the road leading from the R487 to Kilbaha Pier taken in charge by Clare County Council has begun after councillors backed the proposal at the July meeting of the West Clare Municipal District.

The motion was brought forward by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG), who said the road is used by “many people”, including visitors who travel to nearby restaurants and may then wish to walk down to Kilbaha Pier.

He also highlighted that there is a private house located along the route and said taking the road in charge had been “on my agenda for quite a while”.

Cllr Keating thanked council officials for their response and welcomed their interest in the project, saying he was pleased that the process could now begin.

He said he would be relying on the support of his fellow councillors to progress the proposal and “get moving on the job”.

The motion was seconded by Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF).

In a written response, Senior Executive Engineer Alan Kennelly said that, if adopted by members, the motion would initiate the statutory process under the Roads Act 1993 for taking a private road in charge.

Mr Kennelly outlined that the process would involve public consultation, consideration of any submissions received, preparation of an engineer’s report, a further meeting of the municipal district and completion of post-consultation procedures before a final decision is made.

Labasheeda preparing for Dan Furey weekend LABASHEEDA is preparing for the 29th Dan Furey Weekend of Set-Dancing to be held in the village from August 21st to the 23rd. This annual event celebrating Dan and his dances is one of the longest continuous festivals of its kind and will attract dancers from all over the country and abroad to the newly renovated community centre on the northern bank of the Shannon estuary.

The dedicated committee continues to maintain the event with the strong support of the community throughout the weekend. This is a true community effort with many called on to fulfil an endless list of duties to ensure the

smooth running of the festival.

This year’s weekend will be

officially opened by Emma O’Kelly RTE’s Education Correspondent on Friday 21st at 8.30pm. As well as being an excellent correspondent Emma is also an avid set dancer and can be seen dancing at céilithe all over the country.

The opening will be followed by a céili at 9pm music by the award winning Tulla Céili Band. Saturday nights céili, also at 9pm is with the legendary Kilfenora Céili Band while Johnny Reidy and his band brings the dancing to an conclusion on Sunday 23rd starting at 2.30pm.

Other events happening over the weekend include a talk and exhibition for Herit-

age Week by Stephen McDonagh at 1pm on Saturday 22nd entitled ‘Heritage At Risk-The Blacksmith’s Forge’.

This will be held at the renovated forge on the Kildysart road entrance to the village. A Trad Disco for children will be held at 3pm also on Saturday.

The annual parade brings colour and fun to the village on Sunday starting at 1pm.

After the céili, a junior Seisiún begins at 5.30pm followed by an open Seisiún for all adults bringing events to a close.

Come along and enjoy the best of our culture and the atmosphere in Labasheeda for the duration of the festival, relax in ‘The Bed of Silk’.

An aerial view of St. Kieran’s Community Centre, Labasheeda, the old catholic church, the venue for Dan Furey Weekend 2026.

14

Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon

Major aircraft maintanance facility proposed for Shannon Airport

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

A MAJOR new aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility has been proposed for Shannon Airport, with plans lodged for a new hangar building, staff accommodation and associated infrastructure.

Wonderlight Ltd has submitted a planning application to Clare County Council for the development at Lindbergh Avenue and Earhart Avenue, Shannon Airport.

The development would include the construction of a two-storey building, with the ground floor providing a four-bay aircraft hangar alongside training facilities, storage areas, toilets, plant rooms and other ancillary spaces.

The first floor would include staff accommodation, offices, a canteen, conference rooms and locker facilities, while the building would also feature rooftop solar panels and corporate signage.

 The development at Shannon Airport includes a four-bay aircraft hangar

The planning statement submitted with the application says the facility would support the continued growth of operations at Shannon Airport and allow for the expansion of aircraft maintenance services and em-

ployment in the region.

The plans include a new vehicle and pedestrian access from Lindbergh Avenue, improved pedestrian links to the existing bus stop on Airport Avenue, internal circulation

Community Information Afternoon The Clare Older People’s Council, supported by the Clare Age Friendly Programme, is holding a public open event on: Date: Tuesday, 8th September, 2026 Location: Shannon Library Time: 2:00pm to 4:00pm Join us for an afternoon of engaging talks and feel-good inspiration!

Guest Speakers: Clare Women’s Collective, The Active Retirement (Shannon Branch), CLDC, Shannon Community Partnership, Local link, Local Safety Partnership Information Stands: LCETB, Family Carers, Locallink, Shannon Community Partnership, CLDC, Clare Women’s Collective, Alzheimer’s Society, , Task, Lions Club and Clare County Council Housing Grants Whether you’re interested in helpful resources or an uplifting afternoon of connection, this event has something for you! Everyone is welcome.

areas and four taxi apron zones connecting to the existing aircraft taxiway.

A new surface car park with 199 spaces is proposed, including accessible parking and electric vehicle charging spaces, along with sheltered bicycle parking for 23 bicycles.

The development would also include a chemical and refuse storage building, an ESB substation/switchroom, two generator structures, a gas skid installation, underground static storage water tanks and a foul pumping station connection to the existing sewer network.

The application also includes the removal of an existing outbuilding, tanks, concrete yard and associated hardstanding areas at the site.

During site investigations, contaminated soil, including PFAS-impacted material linked to the site’s former use as a fire training ground, was identified. The planning documents state that this material would be excavated and relocated to a designat-

ed containment berm within the site.

The proposed development is located on lands zoned for “Airport” development under the Shannon Town and Environs Local Area Plan, with the applicant stating that the MRO facility is compatible with the airport zoning objective.

A Natura Impact Statement accompanied the application because of the site’s proximity to the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation and the River Shannon and Fergus Estuaries Special Protection Area.

A submission or observation in relation to the application can be made in writing to the planning authority for a prescribed fee of €20. This must be done within five weeks of the authority first receiving the planning application. The application was lodged on July 31, 2026, with submissions accepted until September 3. Clare County Council is due to make a decision by September 24.

Planning granted for sports halls at Shannon schools

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council has granted planning permission for new sports halls at three primary schools in Shannon.

The developments at Saint Conaire’s National School, Saint Aidan’s National School and Saint Senan’s National School will each involve the construction of a new standalone sports hall building.

The applications were submitted by St Flannan’s (Killaloe) Diocesan Trust and the Michael Guinee Charitable Foundation, with the project intended to provide new multi-use sports and performance facilities for the three schools.

Each proposed building will include a double-height general purpose sports hall and children’s performance space, along with staff and student sanitary facilities, storage areas, a services plant room, a re-heat kitchen facility, building signage, external public lighting and associated site works.

The planning applications were each accompanied by a Natura Impact Statement, Ecological Impact Assessment and Flood Risk Assessment.

The developments were approved by Clare County Council on July 29, with each application granted permission subject to seven conditions.

In its assessments, Clare County Council’s planning department said all three sites are located within the Shannon settlement boundary and are zoned for community use under the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029.

The planners noted that the facilities would serve the existing school populations, while also providing potential community resources through out-of-hours use.

The Architectural Design Statement submitted with the applications said the sports halls were identified as a need for the three Shannon schools and were developed in consultation with the school communities and project stakeholders.

The proposed buildings have been designed

by O’Neill O’Malley Architects and will feature silver aluminium cladding, glazed entrance features and sustainable timber construction, including cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam.

At Saint Conaire’s National School, the council found the proposal would not negatively impact residential or visual amenities and noted the building would be consistent with the established school use of the site.

At Saint Aidan’s National School, the planner considered the proximity of nearby housing and said the design had incorporated measures to minimise impacts on residents, including acoustic insulation, high-level glazing and controlled external lighting.

At Saint Senan’s National School, the council similarly concluded that the development would not detract from visual amenities, noting the established school setting and proposed design and materials.

Flood risk assessments were submitted for the schools, with the planners considering the developments acceptable having regard to the proposed finished floor levels, existing flood defence infrastructure and mitigation measures.

The applications were also assessed in relation to nearby Natura sites, including the Lower River Shannon Special Area of Conservation and River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries Special Protection Area.

The council concluded that, subject to the implementation of mitigation measures outlined in the supporting reports, the developments would not have significant impacts on protected habitats or species.

No third-party observations were received in relation to the three applications.

The permissions were granted subject to conditions including requirements for construction traffic management plans, approval of lighting details, implementation of environmental mitigation measures and connection agreements with Uisce Éireann where required.

15

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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Gort & South Galway

220km walk of rememberance to honour babies of Tuam and Bessborough

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

‘From Tuam to Bessborough with Love’ is a three-day commemorative walk that will take place from Friday, August 21 to Sunday, August 23, connecting the former Tuam Mother and Baby Institution in Tuam, County Galway with the former Bessborough Mother and Baby Institution in County Cork.

The walk is being led by Anne Fahey Ronayne, founder of #TuamBabies796KnockmaClimbs, in partnership with A Little Light of Love Team, to extend this artery of love down to Bessborough in Cork to remember all 923 children and babies still missing by walking from the Tuam site to Bessborough site, a little under 220km.

On January 1, 2023 Ann Ronayne of Irishtown, Claremorris began her task to complete 796 climbs of Knockma, the great Hill of Maeve situated eight kilometres west of Tuam, in honour of the 796 children and babies who died at St Mary’s mother and baby Institute, Tuam.

She completed her last steps of her challenging climbs on Saturday, July 26 2025.

From 2020 - 2024, the Little Light of Love relay of walkers carried the lantern from Jack’s Old Cottage in Islandeady, near Castlebar and travelled approx 62 kms to arrive in Tuam Mother and Baby site where the lantern was reverently placed at

l After leaving Tuam (Mother and Baby Institution) site, the walk will pass through Claregalway, Oranmore, Kilcolgan, Gort, Ennis, Newmarket-onfergus, and Sixmilebridge before going through Limerick and onto Cork

the babies’ remembrance site each year and remains a powerful symbol of remembrance at commemorative events across Ireland.

A Little light of love walkers remembered all 796 missing babies and children from the Tuam Mother and Baby Instituiton annually each November until the site officially closed for exhumations of these precious missing children and babies.

Throughout this walk, led by Anne Fahey Ronayne, participants will carry our Little Light of Love lantern, representing hope, love and the enduring belief that every baby and child deserves to be remem-

bered with dignity.

At the heart of the journey is a simple but profoundly meaningful act of remembrance.

As the walkers make their way from Tuam to Bessborough, they will speak aloud the name of every baby, together with their age and the date on which they died. Every name will be spoken with care and respect, ensuring that each child is remembered as an individual whose life mattered.

The walk seeks to symbolically connect two places forever linked by a shared history, while honouring the babies who died at both insti-

tutions. It is a journey of remembrance, reflection, compassion and hope, undertaken in the spirit of light and love.

The walk also seeks to raise awareness that many of the babies who died at both the Tuam and Bessborough Mother and Baby Institutions remain buried in unmarked graves.

By connecting these two places through a journey of remembrance, the organisers hope to encourage continued reflection on this chapter of Ireland’s history while affirming the dignity of every child and every family affected.

Speaking ahead of the walk, Anne Fahey Ronayne, founder of #TuamBabies796KnockmaClimbs, said: “‘From Tuam to Bessborough with Love’ is more than a walk. It is a promise that these children will not be forgotten. Every step we take is for the babies whose lives were so tragically cut short.

“As we walk the 220 kilometres, we will speak every baby’s name aloud, together with their age and the day they died.

“We want every child to be acknowledged, remembered and honoured. This journey is about connecting two places through remembrance, compassion and love, while giving each child the dignity of hearing their name spoken once again.”

Valerie Jennings, founder of A Little Light of Love, said: “So it’s time

again to remember these mothers, children and little babies, this time 923 in all.

“This walk has nothing to do with politics or religion…just in remembrance of the beautiful babies, the precious mothers and the brave survivors. We need to remember them all – the purpose of this walk is an extension of an artery of love from Tuam to Bessborough.

“Our lantern carries a message of hope and compassion for children and families whose stories deserve to be told. We are honoured to join Anne on this journey from Tuam to Bessborough.”

Members of the public are warmly invited to support the walkers along the route or to join them for sections of the journey.

Communities are encouraged to welcome the walkers as they pass through towns and villages, standing together in remembrance and helping to honour the memory of the babies of Tuam and Bessborough.

‘From Tuam to Bessborough with Love’ is not simply a walk between two places. “It is a journey that connects the memory of two groups of children through compassion, dignity and remembrance. It is a call to remember every child by name and to ensure that their stories continue to be told with respect, humanity and love.”

Tuam marks 35 years of twinning partnership with German city Straubing

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

REPRESENTATIVES from Tuam are in Germany this week to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the town’s twinning partnership with the Bavarian city of Straubing.

Cathaoirleach of the Municipal District of Tuam Cllr Mary Hoade (FF) is leading the delegation, accompanied

by Galway County Council Director of Services Michael Owens and Meetings Administrator Geraldine Byrne.

The visit centres on a special Town Partnership Day, bringing together delegations from Straubing’s three twinned towns, Tuam, Romans in France and Wels in Austria, to celebrate more than three decades of Euro-

pean friendship and cooperation.

The programme includes a civic reception, visits to major civic projects, discussions on international youth work, and participation in events at the Gäubodenvolksfest, one of Bavaria’s largest traditional festivals, which attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Also attending are Deputy Consul of Ireland in Munich Kate Hall and Tara Baynes from the Irish Consulate. The partnership dates back to the mid-1980s, when Tuam historian Dr Tony Claffey proposed a twinning based on the shared heritage and the cultural and religious links established by early Irish missionaries in Bavaria.

German was being taught in most Tuam secondary schools by 1987, with annual student exchanges beginning two years later. The twinning was formally ratified in 1991 and has since developed into a wide-ranging partnership encompassing education, culture, tourism and business. Exchanges have involved schools, music and theatre groups, while Tuam students have taken up summer employment in Straubing. The close relationship is also reflected in Straubing, where a street has been named in honour of Tuam.

Cllr Hoade said the 35th anniversary was an opportunity to recognise the generations who had built and main-

tained the relationship. “The 35th anniversary is a significant milestone for Tuam and Straubing. What began with our shared heritage and cultural connections has developed into a lasting friendship involving schools, community groups, businesses and families”.

She added, “The annual student exchanges, which began in 1989, are an important part of that relationship and have created friendships and connections that have lasted across generations.

It is a great honour to represent Tuam in Straubing as we celebrate this important anniversary”.

Lord Mayor (Oberbürgermeister) of Straubing Markus Pannermayr said the partner-

ship had created lasting links between the two communities. “For 35 years, Tuam and Straubing have built a partnership based on friendship, mutual respect and learning from each other. It has grown from its early focus on education into a wider relationship involving culture, music, business, tourism and community life. We are delighted to welcome our friends from Tuam this week and look forward to many more years of friendship and cooperation”.

Michael Owens, Director of Services with Galway County Council’s Municipal District of Tuam, said the relationship had been sustained by generations of people in both communities. “The strength of the Tuam-Straub-

ing relationship is that it has always been about people.

Over 35 years, students, families, community groups, performers and businesses have maintained those links.

The 35th anniversary is an opportunity to acknowledge everyone who has contributed to the partnership and to build on those connections for future generations”.

The historic city of Straubing in southeast Germany is located on the banks of the River Danube. With a population of around 50,000, it is known for its well-preserved medieval centre, Gothic architecture and strong agricultural heritage.

16

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

East Clare

Enable Ireland seeks dedicated and experienced healthcare professionals ENABLE Ireland, one of Ireland’s 200 Best Employers 2026, is hiring for several positions in its home support, residential and supported living services across Clare and the MidWest. Current vacancies include Senior Occupational Therapist and Support Workers.

Enable Ireland is a leading national voluntary organisation which provides essential services for over 13,000 children and adults with disabilities and their families. The organisation requires dedicated employees, with a flexible and adaptable approach, to help support their work with adults with disabilities in Clare and the MidWest.

Enable Ireland has adult residential and supported living services based in Ennis,

and an adult in home support service that operates throughout the Clare region, providing services to adults with physical and intellectual disabilities and autism.

On working with Enable Ireland, one of the organisation’s current employees said: “I am very happy working with Enable Ireland. I love this job. For me, it scores high on both job satisfaction and work life balance.”

Enable Ireland has a strong culture of supporting their employees, with an open-door policy and supportive management style. The organisation invests in its employees, supporting continual professional development through internal and external training opportunities. Enable Ireland provides employees with op-

portunities to lead out on new projects, undertake research in their area of expertise and develop new clinical skills.

They have generous annual leave entitlements and make the health and wellbeing of their staff a priority.

Another employee with Enable Ireland said: “The best thing about working here is working collaboratively as part of a team and the excellent annual leave. My colleagues and managers are helpful, friendly, supportive and good craic!”

For more information on current vacancies with Enable Ireland and to apply, visit: www. enableireland.ie/vacancies.

Traffic warden proposed for East Clare amid growing parking pressures

by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

A DEDICATED traffic warden for the Killaloe Municipal District is to be considered by Clare County Council as parking pressures con-

tinue to grow across East Clare.

The proposal was put forward

by Cllr Pat Burke (FG) at the July meeting of the Killaloe Municipal District, where he said increased parking demand, new public car

parks and ongoing illegal parking issues justified the appointment of a dedicated enforcement officer.

Cllr Burke pointed to the imminent opening of a new public car park in Scarriff, the prospect of

additional car parks elsewhere in the district, continued issues at Ballycuggeran and illegal parking and camping at a number of locations.

He said members of the public frequently ask when parking bylaws will be enforced, particularly where motorists overstay parking limits or park illegally.

Welcoming the council’s response, Cllr Burke said a traffic warden could “pop in here, there and everywhere in the MD” to help address parking issues.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) supported the proposal but said enforcement would need to be applied carefully.

He noted that while time limits existed in places such as Scarriff, they were not currently being enforced and said the operation of any traffic warden should be evaluated.

Cathaoirleach for the Killaloe MD, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF), also welcomed the proposal and thanked council staff for introducing a temporary overflow car park at Ballycuggeran.

He described the measure as a “very proactive and timely intervention” which had “alleviated a lot of the problems down there”.

In a written response, Senior Executive Engineer Declan Flan-

agan said the council recognised increasing parking pressures across the municipal district, particularly during the tourism season.

He said the opening of the Killaloe Bypass and Brian Boru Bridge had improved access to East Clare and contributed to increased visitor numbers, while the new Scarriff car park and any future parking developments would further increase the need for effective parking management.

Mr Flanagan said the council currently works with An Garda Síochána, local communities and event organisers to manage parking issues, but temporary arrangements such as overflow parking at Ballycuggeran require significant operational resources.

He said introducing parking bylaws alongside a dedicated traffic warden would provide a more structured approach to parking enforcement, helping improve road safety, reduce illegal parking and maximise the use of public parking facilities.

However, he said a detailed business case would first be required to assess demand, costs, staffing requirements and enforcement arrangements before such a service could be introduced.

17

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

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‘There was acceptance to Ardnacrusha, now there’s signs around here saying no wind turbines’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PEOPLE must see benefits to their local area in order to support major infrastructural projects, the CEO of EirGrid has told a conference in SouthEast Clare with the Secretary General of the Department of Environment referencing signs in the county objecting to wind turbines.

To kick off Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union, energy priorities for the State within the historic turbine hall of Ardnacrusha Power Station.

Secretary General at the Department of Climate, Energy and Environment, Oonagh Buckley moderated a panel discussion titled ‘Electrified energy systems: Innovation powering our grid; A resilient, fair, affordable energy system’.

A native of Cork City, Oonagh’s grandfathers, Timothy Buckley and Tomás Ryle both engineers were in-

volved in the construction of the Shannon Scheme from October 1925 until July 1929.

Timothy a civil engineer from Cork worked on the road and ramps while Kerry native Tomás an electrical engineer worked on the generators, ironically both men never met while working as sub-contractors for Siemens Schukert.

She revealed her connections during the beginning of the conference, “to be a young man working here would have been incredibly exciting”. She said any infrastructural project in the modern world “is “really important that we design it right and that it works for every country in the world”.

Founder and Executive Chair of Trifecta Energy CLG, Lesley O’Connor referred to Ireland being a wealthy country yet one which experiences fuel poverty, “households experience a choice between food and fuel”. She stated, “We need to be clear on where we are today, our electricity pric-

 Oonagh Buckley, Secretary General of the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment; Terence O’Rourke, Chairman of ESB; Paddy Hayes, CEO of ESB; Minister for Climate, Energy and Environment Darragh O’Brien; and Bevin Cody, ESB Networks, pictured at an EU Presidency event at Ardnacrusha hydroelectric power station

es are among the highest in Europe which is two to three times higher than Asia and the USA. We have to lean into the affordability thing, energy is really complex, there is no silver bullet, everyone wants one but it doesn’t exist. We need to be clear, up front, honest and transparent to our public, we have a pathway but we build a system. We’re not going to

solve everything tomorrow”.

CEO of EirGrid, Cathal Marlay outlined, “our grid has to completely transform which is a massive challenge. It requires big investment which is a big challenge”. Scaling up is essential but requires working closely and communicating with customers.

Signs across South-East Clare objecting to wind tur-

bines were referenced by the Secretary General. “There was acceptance to Ardnacrusha and people saw the good it would bring.. You all passed on your way here signs up saying no wind turbines, it is a very different narrative on electrification. We are now seeing a very strong pushback against slogans or previous pitches, net zero is now a political culture war and a real problem”.

Responding to this, Marley commented, “All politics is local, what people need to see and one of the biggest challenges is big infrastructure and their impact on landscape, the national broadband impact was evident quickly and people loved, people saw straight away the benefits”.

Referencing another contentious plan affecting the people of Clare, namely the 170km pipeline from the River Shannon to Dublin, he stated, “there are no benefits in their own area like bringing the water from the Shannon

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to Dublin”. He stressed, “for the biggest projects you have to give benefits to the local areas, people ask why are we putting this infrastructure in our landscape if we’re not seeing impact”. He maintained success will be achieved by demonstrating local benefits and a national campaign.

Other panellists voiced the need for people to see an impact in their pockets which will lead them to question if it makes sense and deliver savings while also providing local employment opportunities.

Jane Cohen of the International Energy Agency (IEA) outlined, “This is at the heart of how we move this forward”.

She said, “All of the work we’re doing is about people’s lives, if they don’t feel it or if it is lost in technical jargon then it won’t move forward. It needs to be more than a news slogan, it is hard to scale, it is like it is a side project rather than the basis of the programme”.

18

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Business & Recruitment

Build Your Future with Ei Electronics

LOOKING for a rewarding career with one of the Midwest’s leading employers? Ei Electronics is recruiting Product Builders to join its growing manufacturing team at its Shannon headquarters, with full-time opportunities available across Day and Evening shifts, Monday to Friday.

Ei Electronics is a global leader in the development and manufacture of Home Life Safety Solutions for the Connected Home. Headquartered in Shannon, the Company employs more than 1,250 people worldwide and is one of the largest employers in the Midwest.

Established in 1988, Ei has grown from its Irish roots into one of Ireland’s leading indigenous electronics manufacturing companies. With a strong focus on innovation, quality and reliability, the Company designs and manufactures trusted alarm products that help protect millions of homes around the world.

As Ei continues to expand its Shannon operations, Product Builders play an important

Product Builder at Ei Electronics and inset the annual 5k Charity Run in aid of Cliona’s Foundation

role in the production process, assembling and manufacturing high-quality Home Life Safety products used by customers globally.

The role offers the opportunity to join a supportive and experienced team while developing valuable skills and gaining hands-on experience

San am i láthair, tá Comhairle Contae an Chláir ag iarraidh iarratais ó dhaoine a bhfuil na cáilíochtaí oiriúnacha acu ar na comórtais thíosluaite. Tar éis an phróisis agallaimh, cruthóidh Comhairle Contae an Chláir painéil le haghaidh na réimsí atá leagtha amach thíos óna bhféadfar folúntais ábhartha amach anseo a líonadh faoi réir ceadú a fháil ón Roinn Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta.

• Teicneoir Grád 1 (Sibhialta, Ailtireachta, Tógáil) Dáta deiridh: 12 pm meán lae Déardaoin an 3 Meán Fómhair 2026

• Leabharlannaí Feidhmiúcháin Dáta deiridh: 12 pm meán lae Déardaoin an 3 Meán Fómhair 2026

Comhlánaigh, le do thoil, an fhoirm iarratais ar líne atá ar fáil ar www.clarecoco.ie faoin rannán dar teideal ‘Careers’.

Ní ghlacfar ach le hiarratais atá comhlánaithe ar líne.

Is fostóir comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae an Chláir agus fáiltíonn sí roimh iarratais ó gach cuid den phobal.

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.

• Technician Grade I (Civil, Architectural & Building) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 3rd September 2026

• Executive Librarian Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 3rd September 2026

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

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

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

in a modern manufacturing environment. Whether you are starting your career, looking for a new opportunity or seeking long-term employment with a stable company, Ei provides comprehensive training and ongoing support to help employees succeed.

Ei is committed to creating

a positive and inclusive workplace where employees are recognised for their contribution and supported throughout their career journey. Employees can also benefit from ongoing learning and development, including accredited training programmes and further education opportunities.

A wide range of benefits is ava i l a b l e, including an o n - s i te g y m , subsidised r e s taurant, bonus scheme, life assurance and private medical insurance. Employees can also get involved with the active Sports & Social Club, which organises sporting activities, social events and fundraising initiatives throughout the year.

Recent highlights include the Company’s annual 5K Run in aid of Cliona’s Foundation.

With a proud history, a strong commitment to its people and ambitious plans for continued growth, Ei Electronics offers more than just a job — it offers the opportunity to build a rewarding career with a company that makes a difference.

If you are ready to build your skills, join a supportive team and help create products that protect lives, now is the perfect time to apply.

Build products that protect lives.

Build skills that last a lifetime. Build your future with Ei Electronics.

To apply, send your CV to careers@eielectronics.com or scan the QR code to complete your application.

Premier Powerwashing celebrates 4 years in business thing of my own and have the opportunity to develop a busiPREMIER Powerwashing ness based on the standards Services is celebrating four and values that are important years in operation after build- to me”, he continues.

Quality workmanship and ing a strong local reputation through repeat customers, customer service are central to the way the recommendations and Ennis-based word of mouth. business opSince establisherates, with ing the business the owner in 2022, ownp ersonaler Brian Mcly dealDonagh now ing with provides excustomterior cleaners from ing services the initial to residential enquiry and commerthrough to cial customers Brian the compleacross County McDonagh (Owner) tion of each job.

Clare and surround“I genuinely care ing areas. about the quality of the On the background to the business, Brian explains that work I do”, McDonagh said. “ Before becoming self-em- “Because I’m the owner and ployed, I had worked in the the person carrying out the industry and gained valuable work, I take a lot of pride in experience, so I had a good every job I complete”. This understanding of the work, mentality extends to Premier the equipment and, most im- Powerwashing’s day to day opportantly, what customers ex- erations as rather than rushing pect from a professional ser- jobs, each property is assessed individually to determine the vice”.

“I’m proudly local and En- most suitable cleaning methnis-based, and I wanted to od for the particular surface.

Honesty and reliability are build a business that would provide a professional and re- also key principles of Brian’s liable exterior cleaning service fast growing enterprise, with to people in my local commu- customers given advice on nity and throughout County whether a service is necessary Clare. I decided to take the and which approach would be step into self-employment be- most appropriate.

“I believe in being honest cause I wanted to build someby Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

with customers from the beginning,” he explained. “If I don’t think something needs cleaning, or if I think a particular method isn’t suitable, I’ll tell them”. Brian added that new customers can expect “good communication, honest

advice, quality workmanship and someone who genuinely takes pride in the work”.

For more information or for a free quote, you can contact Brian on 085 100 3919 or visit

premierpowerwashingservices.ie

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

19

SIXMILEBRIDGE IN FOCUS

Town Team are ‘the voice of the people’ in Sixmilebridge

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

“THE voice of the people”, expressed through its Town Team is key to making Sixmilebridge such a strong community says Company Secretary Colette Myler.

Originally from Dublin, Colette moved to the area in 2020 and recently sat down with The Clare Echo to discuss the Town Team’s role in shaping one of Clare’s most vibrant communities.

On how she came to be involved with the Town Team, Colette says that before she fully moved down she “was around the area and noticed a questionnaire in a local pub about what the town would like to see happening and what improvements they wanted. I actually filled it out and when they started to form the town team in 2023, I thought I’d get involved”, the Dublin native explains.

“My background is that I worked at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire, which deals with spinal injuries, amputees, and brain injuries and rehabilitation after tragic accidents or complicated medical surgeries. I am an Access Auditor and I realised that

my passion is to be part of whatever changes happen in the town, I really want to have some say in accessibility”. Colette went on to volunteer for the role of company secretary with the Town Team and has worked in the role ever since.

The Town Team works on a monthly basis to progress its masterplan. The masterplan (Sixmilebridge Town Centre First Plan, June 2023) was funded by Clare County Council and collated with extensive input from the people of Sixmilebridge Town itself.

The Town Team’s website designed for the people of the town is sponsored by St. Francis Credit Union. The Town Team is the voice of the community works in partnership with Clare County Council through its Town Centre First Team and the Shannon Municipal District. As an administrator with the Town Team, Colette highlights that “If small groups in the town don’t have the capacity to go for grants or projects, they can come to us and we should be helping them”. Projects do need to fall under one of the master plan’s documented goals.

The people of The Bridge are

renowned for their hard work in achieving the best for their area, something which Colette notes helps to make the town a better place. “The people I’m involved with are very passionate about wanting to see the town improve for the greater good of the people.

They want the best for the area. It shouldn’t ever just be the majority shouting; we have to see the minorities as well and try to support them too”.

“There are a number of people on the Town Team that identify that need; they just love the place and are passionate about it. They are upset when they see negative behaviour, but they want to do something about it rather than sitting back and letting it happen.

We also have a fabulous Sixmilebridge Community Development Association (SCDA/Tidy Towns) with people doing amazing work that a lot of the town’s people don’t realise. The town looks fantastic because of their efforts and the significant group of people that actually come out to work on it”, she continues.

Despite only residing in The Bridge for a relatively short amount

Sixmilebridge growth a boost for business: PJ Ryan

by Michael Fitzgerald at the time”, Ryan exnews@clareecho.ie plains.

As part of this explosive PJ RYAN has been in business in Sixmilebridge growth, PJ Ryan Oil now for more than 35 years, serves customers in a 20 seeing “massive growth” mile basis although Sixin the village’s population milebridge itself still rewhile running PJ Ryan Oil mains an important part alongside a tractor and of its customer base.

“We basically deal machinery operation.

As chairman of the Six- with households; milebridge Town Team, there are quite a Ryan takes an active role lot of houses in in community develop- Sixmilebridge ment in the area and that use natural notes that The Bridge’s gas, but there population has grown are still a lot significantly in recent of older houses here”, Ryan years.

“The population of Sixmi- outlines, in reflebridge has increased erence to houses massively over the last operating on older few years. There are home heating oil sysnew housing estates tems. constantly being built While the growth of the here, and that’s down to village has brought chalthe fact that we have a lenges, Ryan says the massive sewage treat- local business commument plant here which nity continues to receive was a great addition to strong support from resthe town. It was actually idents. “Local support is great for the people who very good and it’s a very put the treatment plant good town to do busithere a long number of ness in; people are very years ago that they built it loyal and they support all in such a way that it could the local businesses”. accommodate a lot more Although based in Sixpopulation than they had milebridge for more

than 30 years, Ryan is a proud Cratloe man and highlights that a healthy sporting rivalry is good for business. “Sometimes that’s not easy because the GAA is extremely strong and

t h e re’s always a bit of rivalry. Sometimes I get in at the butt of that but it’s good fun, it is an extremely good village to do business in”, the heating oil supplier adds.

As chairman of the Sixmilebridge Town Team, Ryan is constantly endeavouring to improve infrastructure in the village and surrounding area, including a new

footpath and traffic management system. On these measures, Ryan states that “This is very important because the volume of traffic around the village is huge compared to what was there.

If you take it that there was only 1600 people in Sixmilebridge in 1986 compared to the six or seven thousand that’s there now”, highlighting the increased pressures on the community.

Road infrastructure is another concern, with the oil merchant arguing that upgrades are needed to deal with the changing demands placed on the village.

“We definitely need an upgrade in the roads.

I suppose that brings problems as well, when you upgrade, it creates another problem because the speed of the traffic going through the village is very high. That was one of the things highlighted for us when we started the town team, the first thing mentioned was the speed of the traffic”.

Sixmilebridge

of time, Colette has noticed a number of changes in the town. Sixmilebridge has seen a number of large scale housing developments in recent years as well as improvements to its rail service, the only active station outside of Ennis in the county.

Since the Town Team’s official incorporation in 2024, Colette’s proudest achievement with the group is the main committee’s excellent working relationship. The committee of circa 19 to 23 members is crucial in achieving the best for Sixmilebridge. “The people around the table are vital. What’s

really important to me is that when they come, they actively participate What we need more than anything else is the voice of the people at the table”, the Access Auditor outlines.

On a positive note, Colette advised that the Town Team with Clare County Council is actively engaged in plans for a Park-forAll. There is much work to be done on this project, including community engagement, however there is a hard working local community project team steering the proposal.

Colette added that it will be a huge asset for the wellbeing of the town when it is realised.

20

SIXMILEBRIDGE IN FOCUS

Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Community support helps Hazel turn salon dream into reality

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

SIXMILEBRIDGE is a community to be proud of, says Hazel O’Callaghan, owner of KV Hair by Hazel.

Originally from Ennis, O’Callaghan says that establishing her own business in 2023 was one of the biggest milestones of her career but she could not have anticipated the level of support she would receive from the Sixmilebridge community.

“The support that I’ve got from the local community has been quite overwhelming and I’m very grateful for it.

I’ve been supported from dot since moving here for which I’m very lucky. That support has meant more to me than words can express. The trust people have placed in me, the friendships I’ve built, and the loyalty of my clients have all played a huge part in the success of my business”, the owner highlights.

After qualifying in her profession, O’Callaghan moved to Australia after being sponsored to work there, spending four and a half years managing a hair salon and barber shop, gaining invaluable experience and developing my skills in both hairdressing and barbering. That experience translated well into her Sixmilebridge enterprise in 2023 as the Ennis woman provides a welcoming space where everyone feels comfortable, valued, and leaves looking and feeling their very best.

“To come home years later and be able to bring all of that experience into my very own salon is something I’m incredibly proud of. It’s not just a business to me it’s something I’ve built around my career, my family and my passion for what I do”, O’Callaghan notes.

The owner says that the

most enjoyable aspects of the job are the different conservations she has with each client as days can include everything from classic men’s haircuts and the latest skin fades and bobs to long layered trims, colours, highlights, curly blow-dries and up styles.

Family is to the core of KV Hair by Hazel, even giving the business its name as O’Callaghan explains that “The K represents my son, Koda, and the V represents my daughter, Vogue. Running a business while being a mother can certainly be challenging, but being a mum is the most important role I will ever have.

Everything I’m building is not only something I’m passionate about, but something I hope my children can be proud of too”, she adds.

The hairdresser reiterates her gratitude to the customers and members of the community who have supported her since opening, saying “I want to thank every person who has walked through my door, recommended my business, or simply stopped for a chat. Your support has helped turn a dream into a reality and I’ll always be grateful for that”.

Hazel O’Callaghan

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

SIXMILEBRIDGE IN FOCUS Proudly local, supporting Sixmilebridge and its community

In a community like Sixmilebridge, local really matters. It is about knowing the people you serve, understanding the needs of the community and being there to support local people, families, clubs, businesses and organisations.

That is at the heart of St Francis Credit Union, a local, not-for-profit financial organisation with a strong commitment to the communities it serves across County Clare.

As part of the Sixmilebridge community, St Francis Credit Union believes that being local means more than simply having a presence in the area. It means reinvesting in the community and helping local people achieve their financial goals.

From savings and loans to financial guidance and community support, the Credit Union is here to provide a friendly, member-focused service.

Unlike traditional financial institutions, St Francis

Louis Fay

Credit Union exists for the benefit of its members rather than shareholders. Any surplus generated is reinvested to strengthen the organisation, provide value to members and support the wider community.

Membership also brings a range of benefits. Members have access to competitive financial products, personalised service and the reassurance of dealing with an organisation that puts people before profit. Most importantly, members be-

come part of a community-based organisation where their support helps St Francis Credit Union continue to support local initiatives and the people who live and work in the area.

CEO Louis Fay said: “Being local is at the very heart of what we do. We know the communities we serve; we know the importance of supporting local people, and we want to be there for our members through every stage of their financial journey. When you join St Francis Credit Union, you are not just becoming a member — you are becoming part of a local organisation that is committed to the community.”

As Sixmilebridge continues to grow and thrive, St Francis Credit Union is proud to play its part — supporting local people, strengthening the community and ensuring that the benefits of a truly local financial service remain close to home.

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

SIXMILEBRIDGE IN FOCUS Morey movement THERE’S A GYM IN SIXMILEBRIDGE!? strengthens Sixmilebridge community through fitness We often hear that people don’t know there’s a gym in Sixmilebridge...now you know!

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

WHAT A WE DO AT

A 6000 sq.ft facility specializing in; total body strength and AllZones conditioning classes AllZone es ‘POD’ SYSTEM SYS SY YST STEM We are one few gyms in Clare who operate a pod system; everyone has their own set of weights and own space in the gym.

Check out ourwebsite ourw r ebsite to rw start your fi ffitness tness journey e ey

moreymovement@outlook.com

Clancy keen to give back to community that made him feel at home

QR code the

e by scanni bsit ng we

The Mill Yard, Sixmilebridge V95X652

Find our

HYROX classes TTeam Te am rental and fitness

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

SIXMILEBRIDGE’s strong sense of community and pride of place can provide people with a vital sense of purpose and belonging, claims local psychotherapist and counsellor Fergal Clancy.

Originally from Moycullen in Galway, Clancy has now lived in The Bridge for around seven years and has worked in counselling and psychotherapy for 15 years. After spending eight years working with the HSE drug and alcohol service, the self-confessed “blowin” moved fully into private practice in 2025.

Now working three days a week from his home in Sixmilebridge, alongside two days in Galway and online sessions, Clancy says he has found the transition into private practice to be hugely rewarding. “It’s the best decision I ever made in my life really”, he explains.

“Working for organisations allowed me to bring my experience from the HSE to my private practice. When you’re working for yourself now, I’m

literally my own boss. I can work my own hours, my own way with people”, Clancy continues.

“I’m very busy. They say it takes two to three years to develop a clientele, but I’m literally working all the time now really, to be honest”. Having recently begun greater promotion of his services both by word of mouth and online, the Moycullen man is hoping to become better known by the wider Sixmilebridge community. Specialising in men’s mental health and addiction counselling, Clancy highlights several particular challenges that can emerge in tightknit rural communities like Sixmilebridge.

“There’s a lot of farming in the area, so a lot of men, lone men, will go to the pub for a bit of social contact. It’s working with men in relation to that and men in breakups, separations, divorces. You’ve got to connect with the person. This is real life. This is what’s really going on for them”, he adds.

Using techniques such as cognitive behaviour-

al therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy and motivational interviewing, the psychotherapist aims to focus on an individual’s continual progression, saying “I don’t delve too much into the past unless it’s necessary. I say, is this the block to you moving forward?”.

That focus on moving forward also extends to his own relationship with Sixmilebridge, where Clancy says he has been made to feel at home since moving from his native Galway. The counsellor has been warmly welcomed by the people of The Bridge, noting that he “felt like I’ve moved from one home to another really. They’re very, very warm and welcoming. You’re a part of it straight away”.

Coming from a strong hurling background in Moycullen, Clancy understandably feels right at home in the heartland of Clare hurling, planning to get more involved with the 15 time Canon Hamilton winners in the near future.

The psychotherapist is also looking forward to

A SIXMILEBRIDGE gym founded by first cousins Séadna and Chloe Morey is continuing to grow as the village’s population expands, with the owners keen to provide an accessible space for people of all fitness levels.

Established in 2021 by former decorated intercounty stars Chloe and Séadna Morey, Morey Movement identified a gap in the local community for a facility focused on conditioning and general fitness and has gone from strength to strength since then.

“We have a massive interest in the strength and conditioning,” Séadna explains. “We just wanted to bring something to the community in regards to keeping health and fitness as a priority for people and giving them an outlet to be able to come and exercise”.

The cousins currently run a sports camp for children in Sixmilebridge and said the idea for the gym developed naturally from their involvement in the local community.

They subsequently completed their qualifications with Setanta College while continuing to work in their previous jobs before opening the facility.

Morey Movement operates on a pod based system, where members have access to their own squat rack and bench and are free to work out at their own pace rather than sharing with others. The gym is used by the Clare Senior Hurlers and has a contract with Sixmilebridge GAA to provide strength and conditioning for underage members, as well as providing a space for locals just looking to keep fit, showcasing the wide range of services and coaching available.

Chloe says that providing amenities for new and existing residents was an important consideration following

becoming more involved in the Sixmilebridge Town Team, a local group backed by Clare County Council and Shannon MD responsible for the betterment of the community.

“I don’t want to be just a person who comes and lives here and just works and that’s it. I want to get more involved in it and with the town plan and everything that’s going forward, I’m excited for it and I’d love to be involved in it too. It would be something that I would get involved in because they’ve been so good to me. I want to give back to them too”, he adds.

 Séadna and Chloe Morey Photo by Joe Buckley

The Bridge’s recent growth.

“When a village grows like that numbers-wise, it’s important that there’s amenities for them as well. We didn’t just want a run-of-the-mill gym. We wanted to create a space where everybody’s welcome”, she explains.

This unique approach allows exercises to be tailored to each person’s ability and experience, Séadna outlines.

“You could have never come into a gym before in your life and when you come in the coach on the day would ensure that every single exercise is detailed towards your technique, your ability and we slowly build you up from there”, the two time All-Ireland and five-time Clare SHC winner highlights.

The owners have also noticed a growing focus among members on strength and overall wellbeing rather than simply losing weight in recent years as Chloe points out that “People these days now are more conscious of actually gaining strength. It’s not all about losing weight. More often now people are realising how brilliant strength work is for their head more than any-

thing and the improvement in their mental wellbeing”.

For Séadna, some of the most rewarding aspects of running the gym come from seeing small changes in people’s everyday lives. “You might have someone come over to you and say ‘I did this for the first time in my life’ or ‘I don’t feel my back pain anymore. It’s the small things.

It’s not the athlete who’s been out running, winning a race or anything like that. It’s the small little changes in people’s lives that you hear the stories about that kind of make it rewarding”, the Sixmilebridge native notes.

Looking ahead, the cousins hope to strengthen their links with other businesses and organisations in the village through events and initiatives.

For now however, Séadna believes there are still plenty of people in the expanding village who are unaware of the gym and is determined to continue their progress. “The village is so big, I don’t think a lot of people still know we’re actually really here. It might not be for everyone, but getting in the door is the hardest part for people”, he explains.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

23

SIXMILEBRIDGE IN FOCUS

Tidy Towns seeks new generation of volunteers as Sixmilebridge grows

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

RAPID growth in the size and population of Sixmilebridge has prompted a renewed push to attract younger residents and newcomers into the community, according to the PRO of the Sixmilebridge Community Development Association and Tidy Towns.

Norma O’Neill became involved with the group almost by accident after contacting Sixmilebridge Tidy Towns about litter and dumping around forest entrances near her home.

“I had actually just been experiencing a lot of building at some forest entrances around the area. I’m a bit out of town in a townland called Cooleycasey and I would have made contact with the Tidy Towns first just to kind of hear about whether any grants were available or any place I could get pickers or bags. It was very innocent. It actually only started with a question about my own area outside the town and somehow I just got swept up in it”, the Sixmilebridge

woman explains.

O’Neill outlines that the organisation has been in operation for more than 40 years and now faces the challenge of maintaining its strong volunteer base while attracting new members from a rapidly expanding population. Some of the group’s longest-serving members are now in their late seventies and approaching their eighties, making the recruitment of younger volunteers particularly important.

“I have noticed that some of the legends that are in the group, they’re not getting any younger. You can’t have people like that doing physical work. Whereas it’s quite a young population in the town. The population explosion that has happened in the last number of years is massive”.

With several new housing developments being constructed in and around the village, the group hopes to introduce itself directly to new residents and attract future members. “One of the aims we would have when the newest construction site on the Shannon Road is completed, we would be up to maybe

three new developments where we want to get our campaign going. We want to drop leaflets and try to just introduce ourselves to people and get new members. We’re always looking for new members”, O’Neill highlights.

In terms of weekly activities, the organisation has also introduced a regular volunteer work programme during the spring and summer months.

“We launched a volunteers work night which happens from March roughly to the end of September.

We launch kind of a very intense work schedule where we have one or two nights every week for weeding, picking up litter, watering the flowers in the heat we had, that kind of thing”, O’Neill notes.

In recent years, the group has placed a greater emphasis on sustainability and encouraging a circular lifestyle within the community.

One initiative involves working with local butcher Jamie Keane to provide a community sharing stand for surplus produce.

“It started with just an apple shar-

ing program, but then we had people with cucumbers or tomatoes”, the PRO explains. The stand allows residents to leave excess fruit and

Bridge Active: A Growing hub of inclusion, community and wellbeing BRIDGE Active continues to evolve as a vibrant community hub, committed to delivering accessible, affordable and high-quality family-friendly services for people across the local area. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to provide a warm, caring and welcoming space where individuals of all ages can connect, participate and thrive.

At the heart of Bridge Active is a strong ethos shaped by its volunteers. The organisation champions equality, inclusion and diversity, and places integrity, respect and ethical behaviour at the centre of its

work. Ensure members and visitors experience a safe, supportive and well-managed environment.

A core principle — Access for All — drives Bridge Active’s commitment to making the centre available to everyone who wishes to en-

gage with its services. This inclusive approach has contributed to a notable increase in activity at the centre, with m o r e groups and indiv idu a ls using the facilities.

The programme offering has expanded and the centre now hosts a Youth

Club twice weekly, Active Members sessions every Friday, and a growing calendar of community-led activities including yoga, a book club, crochet gatherings and, most recently, sound therapy sessions. These diverse offerings reflect Bridge Active’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of the community while fostering connection, creativity and wellbeing.

Bridge kids creates a fun and supportive space for children to thrive At Bridge Kids we understand that the child’s wellbeing and development are influenced by the environment around them. Our wonderful team of 26 staff focus on creating a stimulating, supportive and fun environment with enough challenge to keep our children engaged and learning.

The physical environment of each of our rooms are purpose-designed to provide ample space both indoors and outdoors for children to explore and learn through their play.

The materials and equipment in our playrooms are designed to present the children with 4 key

areas which are relaxation and reading, construction play, home corner and role play and table top area. Playrooms for infants have large soft matted areas to encour-

age exploration and movement.

Each of these areas include a wide variety of equipment, games and puzzles to encourage creativity and fun.

Our outdoor areas have climbing frames, role play areas, bikes, trikes and scooters, sensory play centres and lots of open space to enjoy. We incorporate nature through seasonal planting and outdoor activities.

Our rooms are currently at full capacity and we have a large waiting list in place.

vegetables for others to take, with the initiative expected to return in the coming weeks and continue through to September.

Sixmilebridge Community Development/Tidy Towns or SCDA also works with other community organisations in the village such as the GAA and Bridge United AFC. As The Bridge continues to grow, O’Neill hopes the next generation of residents will help shape the community as it moves forward. O’Neill’s message to anyone looking to become involved in the community is clear, “We’re always looking for new members, we’d be delighted to have you”, she adds.

Membership of Sixmilebridge Community Development/Tidy Towns or SCDA is free and open to anyone. Members will be added to a WhatsApp group after joining where they can hear about planned activities and volunteer. The group are on Instagram @sixmilebridgetidytowns and on Facebook @smbcommunitydevelopment

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Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Survival & success the focus as clubs begin to move for McMahon Cup

by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

TEN teams take off in pursuit of the McMahon Cup with the Clare Credit Unions Senior Camogie Championship commencing this Friday.

It’s Friday night lights across the county with four senior games down for decision.

With two teams getting relegated from the top tier this season, consolidation is as important as progression for all sides as they earmark starting with a win in round one.

Holders Inagh/Kilnamona will carry the favourites tag and will look to win back to back titles for the first time since 2018. Eugene Foudy has concluded his first season as Clare senior camogie manager but his focus is now solely on club matters. They will look to lay down a marker against reigning intermediate champions Clooney/Quin in round one. Clare Hehir, Andrea O’Keeffe, Aoife Keane, Sinead Power and Aoibhin Ryan will be central players during their run.

No better baptism of fire for Clooney/Quin than facing

the county’s top team to see what level they are at. Eoin Gallagher has a youthful side at his disposal who will need to bring a no fear element if they are to match Inagh/Kilnamona in round one. Having won the intermediate title in 2021, Clooney/Quin made a swift drop back down to the second tier, avoiding a repeat scenario is the focus for the club who will be relying on Ciara Grogan, Emma Deegan, Emma Considine and the Halpin sisters.

Clarecastle/Ballyea are braced for a fourth successive senior at senior level. Though there would be a historic rivalry between the Magpies and Newmarket-on-Fergus, that has been non-existent in camogie. Continuity in terms of personnel on and off the field has been a challenge for Clarecastle/Ballyea over the last three seasons but they have edged all their focus on causing an upset in round one.

Doireann Murphy who lines out in goals for her county, is likely to feature outfield for her club.

A decade has passed since

Newmarket-on-Fergus last lifted the McMahon Cup. The aspirations of the club have shifted from a side regularly listed as contenders to an outfit now primarily focused on avoiding a relegation scrap.

Three-time senior championship winner Geraldine O’Grady enters the hotseat as manager, she’s less vocal than her older sister Trish on the sideline but is looking to orchestrate the same results.

Injury has ruled out last year’s captain Katie O’Flanagan for the season, the Blues are buoyed by their minor success a week ago. Finding the right mix between youth and experience is key, Michelle McMahon, Carol O’Leary, Caoimhe Lally, Ellen Casey, Kate Kennedy, Aoibhe O’Leary and Laura McMahon are important cogs in their wheel.

Every team has had a long wait for the championship to start but it is an extended period for Kilmaley who have a bye in round one. Shane Slattery remains in charge of the four-time champions who will field one of their stronger panels in recent times with Eimear

Considine making a return to their panel. The McMahon sisters Claire and Helen remain from their championship winning sides with Sinead O’Keeffe, Caoimhe Carmody and Regan Conway adding energy across the field.

Pain of last year’s extra time final defeat to Inagh/Kilnamona has left a sting in the tail for Truagh/Clonlara who were edged out in their efforts to win three successive senior titles. It’s back to the drawing board and a new campaign but the South-East Clare side will be one of the fancied sides to be in the knockout stages. Injuries have deprived them of key players over the past two seasons but it’s a full hand to pick from for Bob Caulfield and his management which this year includes ex Parteen/Meelick manager Denis Barry. Eimear Kelly, Roisin Begley, Laura Foley and Áine O’Loughlin will cause problems for any opposing side in Group 2.

Feakle/Killanena’s cause has been dealt a major blow with the loss of Lorna McNamara. Having been in the

form that had her a shoe-in for an All Star nomination, the Clare taliswoman suffered a devastating ACL injury which will leave her sidelined for club action this season. It will hamper their chances of making it beyond the semi-final stages once again. To even reach that juncture, they’ll need to take down either of East Clare’s big two, Truagh/Clonlara or Scariff/Ogonnelloe.

Retaining senior status was the big focus for Tulla when making the jump last year, it’s a new year but the objective remains the same. They’ll potentially eye up their third round with St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield as a county final to determine who may drop down but the side managed by two-time Clare SHC winner Johnny Brigdale from Crusheen won’t take a step back from any of their other opponents in Group 2.

If ever there was a sign that Scariff/Ogonnelloe mean business, bringing back Lorrha native David Sullivan as manager is as clear as it gets.

He led them to county and provincial glory in 2021 but

left in sudden circumstances the following spring. The experienced Mairead Scanlan returns to the panel with the McGee sisters while ex Clare defender Amy Barrett is gone from the squad. They are in action for four weeks on the trot so they’ll aim to have their statements made and place in the semi-finals secured by then. Abby Walsh, Aoife Power, Alva Rodgers and Roisin Minogue will be among those leading the way.

Watching from the sidelines this weekend is St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield who have the bye in Group 2. After their ladies footballers slumped to a disappointing first round hammering, the Parish will be hopeful that their camogie side can offer a lift when their campaign springs to life on Friday week. They made the Senior B final last season and will look to be back at that same stage, this will only be possible if they maintain their status.

TEAM PROFILES GROUP 1 INAGH/KILnamona Management: Eugene Foudy (manager), Helen Hehir (selector), Marie Kennelly (selector), Colm Hassett (selector), Jack O’Connor (selector), Jason McCarthy (S&C), Diarmuid Tobin (physio) Captain: Laoise Ryan Vice-Captain: Cathy Cullinan Key Player: Clare Hehir One to watch: Elisha Rynne Fresh blood: N/A Departures Gate: N/A Treatment table: Danielle Griffin (ankle), Fiona Lafferty (ankle) Titles won: 5 (2016, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2025) Last season’s run: Crowned county champions with a 2-14 to 1-14 extra-time win over Truagh/Clonlara Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Clooney/Quin on Friday August 14th in Kilmaley at 19:00 Round 2 vs Newmarket-on-Fergus on Friday August 21st Round 3 – Bye Round 4 vs Clarecastle/Ballyea on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs Kilmaley on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 9 Eugene Foudy (manager): “We’re out to defend the throne but every team starting out this Friday wants to get to a county final and hopefully win it.”

“When you haven’t won the championship in a couple of years then the girls are hungry to get over the line, we were definitely hungry to get over the line, they saw Truagh/Clonlara and Scariff/ Ogonnelloe winning it between them over the last five years which made the

Inagh/Kilnamona’s Andrea O’Keeffe Photo by Gerard O’Neill

and inset Clooney/ Quin’s Ciara Halpin Photo by Ruthie Griffin

girls determined to win it back.”

“Truagh/Clonlara will want to regain the crown as champions, we had a fierce battle with them last year, we held on to win but they’ll want to get back to that stage this year, Scariff/Ogonnelloe will be really hungry too, Kilmaley have been fighting strong the last few years and Feakle/Killanena will be pushing everyone else too.”

Clooney/Quin Management: Eoin Gallagher (manager), Pa Reynolds (selector), Damien O’Halloran (selector), Derek Ryan (selector) Captain: Ciara Grogan Key Player: Emma Considine One to watch: Lily Ryan Fresh blood: Mary Kate McCarthy, Amy Collins, Fiona Manley, Ella White, Siofra Gallagher, Lily Ryan Departures Gate: Rachel Lynch

Treatment table: None Titles won: 0 Last season’s run: Secured promotion back to senior beating Broadford/Bodyke, defeated by Patrickswell 2-15 to 1-8 in the Munster final Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Inagh/Kilnamona on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Kilmaley Round 2 vs Kilmaley on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Newmarket-on-Fergus on Friday August 28th Round 4 – Bye Round 5 vs Clarecastle/Ballyea on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 4 Eoin Gallagher (manager): “Our target is to stay up in senior, there is a big gap between senior and intermediate, you’re hoping that with two teams being relegated this year that you win one

game at least to consolidate your status.

We’re going in as underdogs in most games, we won a good intermediate championship and had a nice run in Munster but this will be a step-up.”

“It took us a while to win the intermediate when we went down, we went up and came down soon after so the focus now is building for the future. Our underage structure is good, we won the U13B and our minors won the shield title so the underage is going well. Our age profile is very young, we won the intermediate with a lot of minors, we’ll be trying to hold our own up in senior, if you take out one or two of our players then the average age of the panel is very young.”

“You’d hope the girls go in with no fear against Inagh/ Kilnamona and go toe to toe with them. It is a baptism of fire, we’ll see how the girls get on and hopefully they will respond, the first game is a big game.”

Clarecastle/Ballyea Management: Paul Murphy (manager), John Reidy (coach), Ruairi Concannon (selector), Aodhan Callinan (selector), Nicola Killeen (selector), Máire Corbett (selector), Cathy Casey (selector), Alan O’Loughlin (selector) Captain: Ria Flanagan Key Player: Doireann Murphy One to watch: Aoibhinn Corbett Fresh blood: Ria Flanagan Departures Gate: Hannah Mai Neylon (J1), Orla Hogan (J1) Treatment table: Ria Flanagan (ankle) Titles won: 0 Last season’s run: Beat Kilkishen

Clarecastle/ Ballyea’s Doireann Murphy

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

1-13 to 0-12 in the group stages but lost to Inagh/Kilnamona, Feakle/Killanena and Kilmaley; defeated by Newmarket-on-Fergus in the Senior B semi-final Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Newmarket-on-Fergus on Friday August 14th in Fr McNamara Park at 19:00 Round 2 – Bye Round 3 vs Kilmaley on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs Inagh/Kilnamona on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs Clooney/Quin on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 4 Paul Murphy (manager): “We are up against it if we’re being realistic, Inagh/Kilnamona are a step ahead of everybody else, we hope to make a bit of progress and to not be involved in relegation. We’ve trained hard, we were

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Support journalism in Clare by subscribing to www.clareecho.ie/subscribe slow getting off the mark in the spring, we had no management in place so the league games were a learning curve for the management, we’ve been training away for the last number of weeks and we’ll see where it takes us.”

“It would be a big help to start with a win, we’d be off to a great start then, if you win your first game then you have momentum but if you get off to a bad start then you can be in trouble very easily.”

“We’ll be putting our best foot forward in every game, we’re hoping to win against Newmarket-on-Fergus.

Newmarket-on-Fergus Management: Geraldine O’Grady (manager), Brian O’Leary (selector), Stephen Cusack (S&C), Shirley Kilmartin (selector), Neil Ryan (coach) Captain: Laura McMahon Key Player: Ellen Casey One to watch: Aoibhe O’Leary Fresh blood: Annmarie Hayes, Kate Kennedy, Aoibhe O’Leary Departures Gate: None Treatment table: Katie O’Flanagan (achilles), Izzy Coffey (foot), Aoife Crimmins (ankle) Titles won: 8 (2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2015) Last season’s run: Won the Senior B final, beating Doora/Barefield 1-17 to 1-9; missed out on championship semi-finals after defeats to Scariff/Ogonnelloe and Truagh/Clonlara Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Clarecastle/Ballyea on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Fr McNamara Park, Doora Round 2 vs Inagh/Kilnamona on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Clooney/Quin on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs Kilmaley on Friday September 4th Round 5 – Bye Kaci Toomey of Newmarket-onFergus

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Championship power ranking: 6 Geraldine O’Grady (manager): “If I go back to when I played, we won our first senior championship twenty-five years ago, a lot has changed for the better with camogie even at county level.

The fundamentals are still the same, it was twelve-a-side then, it’s fifteen-aside now, the will to win is key and to instil that into all our players. The last time we won the championship was in 2015, we had a good run in the noughties and teens, there is a gap though. Last year we toOk a step forward in winning Senior B and of course we’ll always aim to be at the top and the pinnacle, we want tO build on what we did last year and that starts with the first game and trying to get out of the group.”

“We have four games on the trot, Clarecastle/Ballyea, Inagh/Kilnamona, Clooney/Quin and Kilmaley then we get the bye, it is really up to us to do the business in the group so we’re not relying on other results by the final round, that all starts this Friday.”

“We have youth and experience but the youth that we have are really used to winning. The minor championship win last week can only be a positive.

Kilmaley Management: Shane Slattery (manager), James Healy (coach), Hzael McGauley (S&C), Marie Hehir (selector), Paul Kennedy (selector) Captain: Claire McMahon & Grace Carmody Key Player: Claire McMahon One to watch: Caoimhe Neylon Fresh blood: Moira Maher, Caoimhe Neylon, Leah Griffin, Shauna Melican, Eimear Considine Departures Gate: N/A

Kilmaley’s Claire McMahon Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Treatment table: None Titles won: 4 (2008, 2009, 2012, 2014) Last season’s run: Lost out to St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield in the Senior B semi-final Schedule of games: Round 1 – Bye Round 2 vs Clooney/Quin on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Clarecastle/Ballyea on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs Newmarket-on-Fergus on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs Inagh/Kilnamona on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 6 Shane Slattery (manager): “It’s twelve to thirteen weeks since the league ended so it has been hard to navigate, it can be a long summer, we’ve a good squad but we have a lot of girls involved in football too. The only difference for us in having the bye first is it’s four weeks in a row, we’re all in a similar boat with a tight schedule. It can be tough with girls on football squads to keep them fresh and to have a balance. The bye week is not an advantage or disadvantage but we knew four weeks out and we adapted accordingly, there is no real benefit or hindrance to it, we know what we’re planning for and are looking forward to it really.”

The key to getting out of the group is consistency, if you are not consistent you don’t have a chance of making the semi-finals.”

“The landscape of camogie has changed in the last ten years with the East Clare teams coming into the mix, it has been great and makes it competitive. There is history between Kilmaley, Newmarket-on-Fergus and Clooney/ Quin on the camogie pitch, whereas a lot of our girls went to school with Clarecastle/Ballyea girls, and whatever the sport, Kilmaley versus Inagh/Kilnamona always takes on a life of its own. Our first game is our main worry, we’ll take it day by day from that. It is interesting how much the landscape has changed, we’ve squad members that have won all four senior championships with Kilmaley and we’ve girls putting in an effort to get there, it is an exciting group from the outside with the stories and plots within, it will be interesting to see how it unfolds and it is unpredictable which is great for everyone, so what better for Clare camogie.”

Key Player: Roisin Begley One to watch: Aoibhin Marren Fresh blood: Niamh Ryan, Niamh Powell, Leah Hawes Departures Gate: Louise Egan, Becky Foley Treatment table: N/A Titles won: 2 (2023, 2024) Last season’s run: Bid for three-in-arow came unstuck in extra-time, losing the county final to Inagh/Kilnamona Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Feakle/Killanena on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Hamilton Park, Kilkishen Round 2 vs Scariff/Ogonnelloe on Friday August 21st Round 3 – Bye Round 4 vs Tulla on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 8 Ger Begley (selector): “We’ve been in the last five or six finals, winning two and losing three, we have an ambition to do it again but we’re in the tougher side of the draw with three of last year’s semi-finalists. If the heads aren’t right then every game becomes tough. It took us years to get out of the group stages so the teams that aren’t getting out, like Tulla or Doora/Barefield, will at some stage.

“I have to say the girls have regrouped really well from the disappointment of losing last year, we started back pretty early. Like a lot of teams we have a few on the county panel, for last year’s league we were basically struggling to field a team so this year we decided to go back earlier and give younger girls on the fringes more exposure to training and our environment, that helped us in the league and we had a good Run.” “We’re looking no further than the first two games, it happens to be Feakle/Killanena who were in last year’s semi-final and Scariff/Ogonnelloe who will alwayS be there, we’re looking no further than them and then we will reset in the third round when we have a bye. “For the players we’ve had all year we’re more cohesive and they have been going well, the league testified that. We have girls back from county panels and J1s so it is hard to know where we are at.

We’ve played challenge matches but it is hard to know how it is all set up, last year was more affected by the previous year and playing till December in the All-Ireland club, we had injuries last year too and we were pipped at the post, we went two points up in normal time on the fifty-eighth minute, then we were lucky to draw, Inagh/Kilnamona blew us away in extra-time so you could argue the hangover is there from the tank running dry, maybe we didn’t get as much of a bounce off our bench as they did in Inagh/Kilnamona.”

Tulla sharpshooter, Bridin Dinan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Round 4 – Bye Round 5 vs Tulla on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 6 Tulla Management: Johnny Brigdale (manager), David Moloney (coach), John Hogan (selector), Fergal Conlon (fitness), Victor O’Riordan (S&C), Colm Mcnamara (S&C) Captain: Gillian Ryan Key Player: Sinead Conlan One to watch: Alison McGrath Fresh blood: Molly Moroney, Leah McGrath, Alison McGrath, Bríd Óg Hayes Departures Gate: Lorna Power, Sally McInerney, Áine Dinan Treatment table: Ava McInerney (ankle), Aoife Leyden (knee), Aoife Dooley (J1) Titles won: 0 Last season’s run: Consolidated senior status by defeating neighbours Kilkishen in the relegation final 2-10 to 1-10 Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Scariff/Ogonnelloe on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Clareabbey Round 2 – Bye Round 3 vs St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs Truagh/Clonlara on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs Feakle/Killanena on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 5 Johnny Brigdale (manager): “It was a massive jump from intermediate to senior for us last year, the level of competition you’re facing on a weekly basis is a massive step-up, you can’t compare it until you face it. We would have been a big fish in a small pond at intermediate level, now we’re a small fish in a big pond at senior level. The step-up to senior is phenomenal against big teams who have been there for sixteen to twenty years, it was a massive ask for us but we adapted and we tried to go after every game, the quality of opposition is massive.”

“It is our second year at senior, last year we bucked the trend by staying up, predominantly the team that wins the intermediate drops back down the next year but we scraped it against Kilkishen. The focus now is to retain our senior status, get extra girls coming through and have our minors adding to our set-up.”

Zi Yan Spillane of Feakle/Killanena Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Truagh/Clonlara forward, Aine O’Loughlin

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Group 2 Truagh/Clonlara Management: Bob Caulfield (manager), Ger Begley (selector), Eoin Powell (coach), PJ Gully (selector), Denis Barry (coach) Captain: Roisin Begley

Feakle/Killanena Management: Tony Nelson (manager) Captain: Key Player: Zi Yan Spillane One to watch: Aoibheann Daly Fresh blood: N/A Departures Gate: N/A Treatment table: Lorna McNamara (ACL) Titles won: 0 Last season’s run: Reached the county semi-final and lost 3-19 to 1-15 to Truagh/Clonlara Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Truagh/Clonlara on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Hamilton Park, Kilkishen Round 2 vs St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Scariff/Ogonnelloe on Friday August 28th

Abby Walsh of Scariff/Ogonnelloe Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Scariff/Ogonnelloe Management: David Sullivan (manager), Brian Darcy (coach), JP Houlihan (selector), Ann Mason (selector), David Broderick (physio), Ciara Magill (physio), Ciara O’Sullivan (FLO) Captain: Aoife Power Vice-Captain: Bonnie Wiley Murphy Key Player: Susan Daly

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One to watch: Emer Murnane Fresh blood: Emer Murnane, Mairead Scanlan, Holly McGee, Alison McGee Departures Gate: Amy Barrett (abroad) Treatment table: N/A Titles won: 3 (2019, 2021, 2022) Last season’s run: Knocked out in the semi-finals losing to eventual winners Inagh/Kilnamona 2-10 to 1-9 Schedule of games: Round 1 vs Tulla on Friday August 14th at 19:00 in Clareabbey Round 2 vs Truagh/Clonlara on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Feakle/Killanena on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield on Friday September 4th Round 5 – Bye Championship power ranking: 7 David Sullivan (manager): “Whatever happened in 2021 happened, we had a wonderful year, there are different reasons why I’m back. The girls are hungry for success, the call came out, I answered and here we are, we can’t hinge our thoughts on what happened previously, it is all about the 2026 season.”

“We have a tough group, no matter who you get in Clare camogie it is tough and it is competitive which is why Clare teams do well in Munster, they are well tested, we’ve Tulla up first and that is all we’re focused on, giving a good performance, getting a win to get us up and running.”

“We won it in 2022, we lost the final in 2023, we lost the semi-final in 2024 to Truagh/Clonlara who went all the way to the All-Ireland final. Last year hurt the most because girls didn’t turn up in the semi-final and didn’t give their maximum performance against Inagh/Kilnamona.

They miss being away from the top table and seeing Truagh/Clonlara and Inagh/ Kilnamona as the final pairing. The hunger is back, the girls are focused on trying to get back to Cusack Park on October 3rd and our goal is to be one of the last two teams standing.”

St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield’s Aisling Hannan

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield Management: John O’Connor (manager), Vinny Sheedy (selector), Emmet Moran (selector), Shane McMahon (selector), John Hoey (selector) Joint captains: Aisling McMahon & Fiona Tuohy Key Player: Karen McMahon One to watch: Maedhbh O’Connor Fresh blood: Siobhán Flynn Departures Gate: Aoife Shannon (travelling), Amy Lenihan (travelling) Treatment table: Aisling McMahon (back) Titles won: 0 Last season’s run: Reached the Senior B final, losing to Newmarket-on-Fergus Schedule of games: Round 1 – Bye Round 2 vs Feakle/Killanena on Friday August 21st Round 3 vs Tulla on Friday August 28th Round 4 vs Scariff/Ogonnelloe on Friday September 4th Round 5 vs Truagh/Clonlara on Friday September 12th Championship power ranking: 5 John O’Connor (manager): “Ideally you might prefer to have the bye later on rather than the first round, it is not ideal, we’d have preferred it in the second or third round but our footballers have three weekends in a row so it is no harm for our dual players to get an extra weekend off.”

“Our main aim is to retain our senior status and try get back to the Senior B final and try win it, that would be a huge achievement for us, we’re in a very tough group.”

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Introducing our new look Visa Debit card Tony Kelly Proud Credit Union Member.

TUS Clare SHC Group 1 Round 2

Tempers flare between Fionn Kelleher and Aidan McCarthy Photo by Ruthie Griffin

INAGH/KILNAMONA VS ST JOSEPH’S DOORA/BAREFIELD

Inagh/Kilnamona 0-25 St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield 0-12 Venue: Páirc na nGael, Ruan Referee: Eoghan O’Leary (Whitegate))

TUS Clare SHC Group 1 Round 2 BALLYEA VS CLONLARA Ballyea 1-17 Clonlara 2-14 Venue: Páirc Micheál Uí hEithir, Cratloe Referee: John Bugler (Whitegate)

COMPILED BY GEARÓID HOWLEY

COMPILED BY EOIN BRENNAN

Inagh/Kilnamona: Frees for: 15 (6/9) Wides: 8 (4/4) Spread of scorers: 9 Scores from play: 0-13 Top scorer: Aidan McCarthy (0-11, 9f, 1 ‘65) Yellow Cards: Shane Woods (30+1), Aidan McCarthy (48) Own puckouts won: 12/21 (57%)

Ballyea Frees For: 13 (7/6) Wides: 13 (7/6) Scores from Play: 0-10 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Tony Kelly (1-12 1-7f) Yellow Cards (2): Pearse Lillis (44), Dara Kennedy (54) Own Puck-Outs won: 17 from 30 (57%)

St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield: Frees for: 14 (9/5) Wides: 9 (5/4) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 0-4 Top scorer: Pádraic O’Donovan (0-7, 6f, 1sc) Yellow Cards: Eoin Ógie Fanning (33), Fionn Kelleher (48), Francis Meaney (54) Red Cards: Fionn Kelleher (58) (straight) Own puckouts won: 19/32 (59%)

TUS Clare SHC Group 2 Round 3

ÉIRE ÓG VS SCARIFF

Éire Óg 2-20 Scariff 1-21 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chiosóg Referee: Niall Donovan (O’Callaghans Mills)

COMPILED BY EOIN BRENNAN Éire Óg Scariff Frees For: 11 (4/7) Frees For: 10 (4/6) Wides: 14 (7/7) Wides: 10 (9/1) Scores from Play: 1-12 Scores from Play: 1-18 Spread of Scorers: 10 Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Danny RusTop Scorers: Paul Rodsell (1-6 5f 1’Pen 1’65) gers (0-6 3f), Patrick Crotty (1-3) Yellow Cards (1): Tom Kavanagh (42) Yellow Cards (1): Daniel Treacy (25) Own Puck-Outs won: 19 from 30 (63%) Own Puck-Outs won: 24 from 36 (67%) Keelan Hartigan and Robert Loftus vie for possession as Patrick Crotty anticipates the break Photo by Gerard O’Neill

TUS Clare SHC Group 2 Round 3

Gerry O’Grady, Crusheen senior hurling manager: “We kept playing to the end. Did we think we were going to win, I don’t Crusheen 3-14 know. I am delighted for Broadford 2-16 Rian (O’Donnell), he took Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis the chance, he is only 17. It Referee: Brendan Hannon (O’Callaghans Mills) wasn’t going well but the lads kept going”.

“We got out of jail in the COMPILED BY SEMAUS HAYES end. It was about winning your battles, winning your Crusheen Broadford ball, winning turnovers, I Frees For: 7 (2/5) Frees For: 5 (2/5) don’t know did we think so Wides: 19 (10/9) Wides: 11 (6/5) much about winning the round, It was more about Scores from play: 3-9 Scores from play: 2-15 can you beat the man in Spread of scorers: 9 Spread of scorers: 6 front of you, can you win Top scorer: Ross Top scorer: Niall your ball, that sort of thing Hayes (0-5 5f) O’Farrell (1-5) really”.

“It’s the same thing the Bookings: None Bookings; Paddy next day, we have to go out Donnellan (56) Own puckouts won: and try and beat Scariff. It’s 21 out of 29 (72%) Own puckouts won; typical Clare champion26 out of 36 (72%) ship, Every game matters, there is very little between the teams”, he went on.

CRUSHEEN VS BROADFORD

TUS Clare SHC Group 3 Round2

CRATLOE VS O’CALLAGHANS MILLS

Cratloe 4-15 O’Callaghans Mills 1-24 Venue: O’Garney Park, Sixmilebridge Referee: Jarlath Donnellan (Wolfe Tones) COMPILED BY SEMAUS HAYES Cratloe Frees For: 13 (8/5) Wides: 10 (6/4) Scores from play: 4-12 Spread of scorers: 8 Top scorer: Rian Considine (1-4 2f) Bookings; Eoin Carey (18) Own puckouts won: 25 out of 39 (64%)

O’Callaghans Mills Frees For; 15 (8/7) Wides: 14 (5/9) Scores from play: 1-14 Spread of scorers: 9 Top scorer: Jacob Loughnane (0-10 10f) Bookings: None Own puckouts won: 19 out of 29 (66%)

Alan Neville, Cratloe senior hurling manager: “We got out of jail, its hard on the Mills, the put in a huge effort in the second half and we were playing second fiddle all through it in fairness”.

Seán Doyle, O’Callaghans Mills senior hurling manager: “It was cruelly taking away from us. We are fierce disappointed with the result.

In fairness we took over the second half and played the way we should be playing.

We are learning how to play senior hurling at the moment and that is a cruel cruel blow because in my eyes we were the better team in the second half and the victory was snatched in the last seconds but you have to give credit to Cratloe because they kept at it even though they were getting beaten all over the field at one stage”.

Clonlara Frees For: 8 (2/6) Wides: 15 (7/8) Scores from Play: 2-12 Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Micheál O’Loughlin (0-5 2f) Yellow Cards (3): Michael Clancy (13), Tom Power (44), Dylan McMahon (48) Own Puck-Outs won: 18 from 31 (65%)

Donal Madden, Clonlara senior hurling manager; “I know we equalised at the end but we feel it’s a point lost to be honest as we were very disappointed with our second half performance. We were in a really good position at half-time but we feel that in the second half we wasted a lot of ball, our work-rate was down, our tackling was down so we’re really disappointed.

“The wind was tricky but even still we’re way better than that.

We’ve too much effort and commitment put in to play like that so we’re just really gutted with that performance.

“The guys did dig it out at the end and a point is better than none but we shouldn’t have been in that position to be honest as we hit too many wides, lost too many tackles and make too many mistakes. We had enough possession in the second half to be at least six or seven points up so we shouldn’t have really been in that position at the end.

TUS Clare SHC Group 3 Round 2 CLOONEY-QUIN VS FEAKLE Clooney-Quin 4-17 Feakle 0-13 Venue: Dr Daly Park, Tulla Referee: Niall Malone (Éire Óg) COMPILED BY GEARÓID HOWLEY Clooney-Quin: Frees for: 17 (6/11) Wides: 14 (6/8) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 4-11 Top scorer: Peter Duggan (1-7, 0-6f) Yellow Cards: Evan Maxted (41) Own puckouts won: 15/18 (83%)

Feakle: Frees for: 8 (3/5) Wides: 5 (2/3) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 0-7 Top scorer: Shane McGrath (0-6, 6f) Yellow Cards: Enda Madden (25), Adam Hogan (45) Own puckouts won: 20/33 (60%)

Peter Duggand Conn Smyth battle for possession Photo by Ruthie Griffin

27

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Sport

Moving round of Clare SFC will tell a lot as to Jack Daly contenders

by Páraic McMahon MOVING round of the Clare senior and intermediate football championships arrive this weekend where places in the knockout stages can be secured.

There will be plenty of movement for supporters too as the decision of Clare GAA not to host a single double-header between senior and intermediate leaves patrons scrambling from venue to venue to try see games in the flesh.

Back to back victories will at the very least secure a spot in the preliminary quarter-finals whereas other sides that record successive wins will be able to look forward to the knockout stages.

On the flipside, following up a round one loss with another defeat in round two will move clubs closer to a relegation battle.

It won’t be until the final round in the group stages takes place in a fortnight that the standings in each group will be finalised.

Kicking off the action is the battle to top Group 3 when Kilmurry Ibrickane and Lis-

Kilmurry Ibrickane’s Daniel Walsh and Conor Finnucane of Lissycasey will cross paths this weekend Photo by Gerard O’Neill

sycasey face off in Cusack Park on Friday evening at 18:45. This could well be a pairing later on in the year with both sides capable of forging a successful run in the knockout stages. Whoever progresses is likely to top the group following their victories in round one.

Notably both sides saw extensive leads cut back to two points after conceding a brace of two pointers so they have plenty to learn head-

ing into round two. Dermot Coughlan and Caoilfhionn O’Dea excelled for Kilmurry Ibrickane as they showed their ability to attack in numbers and at pace while Lissycasey brought an array of firepower up front with Daire Culligan, Shane Griffin, Conor Finnucane and Diarmuid McMahon to the fore.

Corofin and St Breckans will both be looking to bounce back in what is a novel North Clare derby on Sunday after-

noon (15:00) in Gurteen. They last met in the 2022 champonship when the Spa prevailed 0-14 1-7. It will be even tighter this weekend with both sides knowing a win will bolster their chances of qualifying for a preliminary quarter-final if not the last eight. Diarmuid Cahill remains sidelined for Corofin but they will hope to have Damien O’Loughlin and Cilléin Mullins back in action.

St Breckans apart from their two pointers lacked an attacking threat while their defence was ripped open by the Bricks so a big improvement is required by Patrick O’Neill’s side.

Champions Éire Óg can secure their spot in the quarter-finals if they overcome Doonbeg on Saturday (16:00) in Páirc na Muintire, Lissycasey. The Townies strolled past Cratloe 1-17 0-4 in round one while Doonbeg came close to upsetting St Joseph’s Miltown. Colm Walsh O’Loghlen continues his recovery from an ACL injury for Éire Óg who came through the second round of the Clare SHC without additional injuries, a red card for David McNamara a fortnight ago means they will

be without his powerful presence in the middle third. Seán Conway may be pressing for inclusion to make a first championship start in two years for Doonbeg who will need Darragh Burns, Darragh O’Sullivan, David Tubridy, Tadhg Lillis and Mikie Tubridy on fire to take down the champions.

A second win for Seán O’Brien’s St Joseph’s Miltown would seal their progression to the quarter-finals. The West Clare side had an abundance of threats up front which helped them recover from a three point half-time deficit to beat Doonbeg 1-21 2-12. It can only get better for Cratloe following their first round noshow but they will welcome back Podge Collins and Rian Considine to their attack to increase the questions they will pose of opposing defences.

Last year’s beaten finalists St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield will endeavour to bring their campaign to life when they face off with Kildysart on Saturday (13:00) in Clarecastle.

The sides finished all square at 1-12 apiece in the 2025 first round, scoring difference ultimately sending The Parish

through and they backed it up with wins over Kilmurry Ibrickane and Cratloe to make a first county final since 2012. Kildysart had a nervy opening half against Kilmihil but they outscored their opponents 0-9 0-2 in the second half to take the points. Niall Ginnane’s side will look to put more points on the board to edge closer to the knockout stages.

Once bitten twice shy will be in the minds of Ennistymon as they face Kilmihil in round two for the second year in a row. Kilmihil had three points to spare over Ennistymon in one of the shocks of the season, this will give them great confidence of repeating the dose. Ennistymon rightly have ambitions of having a big say in where Jack Daly resides for the winter, a second win on the trot will move them towards an eleventh quarter-final in twelve seasons. Notably the tie throws up a double derby with former Kilmihil footballer Declan Downes in charge of Ennistymon while Denis Hynes, an Ennistymon native and coach of their senior side in 2021 part of the Kilmihil management.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK Tony Kelly Photo by Ruthie Griffin

A hurley flies by Peter Power Photo by Ruthie Griffin

TUS Clare SHC Group 4 Round 2 SIXMILEBRIDGE VS NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS Sixmilebridge 1-21 Newmarket-on-Fergus 2-16 Venue: Dr. Daly Park, Tulla Referee: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford) COMPILED BY EOIN BRENNAN Sixmilebridge Newmarket- onFergus Frees For: 12 (7/5) Frees For: 18 (9/9) Wides: 8 (2/6) Scores from Play: 1-14 Wides: 10 (4/6) Scores from Play: 2-8 Spread of Scorers: 7 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Jamie Shanahan (0-8 5f Top Scorer: Peter 1’65) Power (1-9 6f 1’65) Yellow Cards (2): Alan Yellow Cards (1): Jack Mulready (44), Noel Enright (37) Purcell (54) Own Puck-Outs won: Own Puck-Outs won: 19 from 30 (63%) 21 from 28 (75%)

KILMALEY VS WOLFE TONES

Kilmaley 3-20 Wolfe Tones 0-15 Venue: Clarecastle Referee: Gus Callaghan (Feakle) COMPILED BY SEMAUS HAYES

TK LEADS THE WAY TO WIN PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Kilmaley Frees For: 14 (7/7) Wides: 11 (3/8) Scores from play: 3-12 Spread of scorers: 10 Top scorer: Tom O’Rourke (0-9 7f 1’65) Bookings: Cian Moloney (50) Own puckouts won: 18 out of 23 (78%)

IN A CAREER where he has amassed a fair share of silverware and accolades, Tony Kelly has added to the collection by being named St Francis Credit Union / The Clare Echo player of the week.

A brand ambassador for St Francis Credit Union, Tony is no stranger to the headquarters at Friar’s Walk, Ennis. Performing when the pressure is on is nothing new to the Ballyea man who was one of the leading performers in round two of the Clare SHC. Ballyea needed to produce the goods to stay in the championship, Tony led their charge and scored 1-12 of their 1-17 as they were forced to share the spoils with Clonlara.

Kelly’s goal flew past five Clonlara players while he picked off points from all angles while also pulling the strings and leading from the front for Robbie Hogan’s men.

It’s must-win for Ballyea heading into round three, they must first defeat St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield to ensure they don’t end up in a relegation battle. Should they secure a victory and Inagh/Kilnamona overcome Clonlara then the four-time champions will advance to the quarter-finals.

Wolfe Tones: Frees For: 15 (7/8) Wides: 8 (4/4) Scores from play: 0-8 Spread of scorers: 7 Top scorer: Aaron Cunningham (0-9 7f 1’65) Bookings: None Own puckouts won; 21 out of 34 (61%)

28

Sport

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Development classic a huge success in Shannon

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Golf Club’s course development classic attracted a huge entry last weekend. The winners, with 137 points, were Brian Begley, Brendan Markham, Herbie Burke and Mike Ryan and they won on a countback from Aidan and Ray O Halloran, Frank Kavanagh and Christy Earls.

In the intermediate scratch cup on Sunday, Darren Griffin (10) captured the honours winning on a countback from Colin Ryan (8) with Kevin Meehan (11), also with 81, in third place Jeff Carew (12) won the nett with 71.

Michael Long (21) won the men’s open singles with 39 points from Paul McElligott (15) who had a similar score. In third place with 38 points was Christopher Price (11).

Edward Hickey (+1) won the gross with 36 points.

East Clare Golf Club: East Clare hosted its annual open week of competitions last week when good attendances were the order of the day.

The ladies Ryder Cup team of 2 was won by Mary Farrell and Maureen Clune with 56 points. They were one ahead of Eileen Donnellan and Rachel Whelan. In third place with 53 points

were Evelyn Skehan and Marie Donnellan followed

by Margaret Lynch and Mary Farrell also with 53 points.

Deirdre Tuohy (33) with 39 points won the ladies singles from Rachel Kelleher Doneraile (6) with 36 points with third place filled by Sandra Ferguson Shannon (20) with 35 points.

The men’s singles off yellow tees was won by Conal O’ Reilly (7) with 46 points from Brian Stritch (12) with 44 with third place filled by Liam Flynn (25) with 42. Mark McInerney (8) with 80 won the gross.

The ladies 18 hole stableford competition on Sunday was won by Bridget Minogue (31) with 41 points from Catherine Minogue (20) with 38 points with Helen Ahern (30) in third with 37 points. Eileen Donnellan (17) won the gross with 19 points.

The Olive Fahy Memorial cup open for ladies and men will take place next Wednesday August 19 and tee times for the 18 hole stableford event can be booked by calling 061-921322.

Lahinch Golf Club: There will be a presentation of prizes at Lahinch on this Thursday night at 9p.m. in the clubhouse.

Woodstock Golf Club: Last week’s AMR open singles at Woodstock was won by Brian Mulcahy (17) with 41 points and he has qualified for the grand final.. The gross was won by Tony Nugent (0) with 36 points.

The Brian Pyne sponsored August medal was the competition for men at the weekend when Cathal Nagle (11) captured the honours with 66 while Alan Markham (4) won the gross with 72.

Ross Kenny (11) with 69 won category 2 while the category 3 winner was Paul O’Shea (25) with 70.

The ladies V Par competition was won by Anne Kilker (36 with +3 and she won by one from Mags Nash (29).

The open singles continues on this Thursday while the weekend competition will be the Michael Cullinan memorial cup.

Dromoland Golf Club: The Nolan fourball for ladies, sponsored by Mark and Maria Nolan was the competition at Dromoland last week when the winners were Mairéad Bergin and Fran Feighery with 46 points.

They had two to spare over Ann Nix and Colette Colleran with Anne McMahon and Siobhan Dyar in third place with

Mike Neville (PIL Main Sponsor) John Riordan, Michael Riordan, Ian Fitzgerald, John Mc Phillips & Captain Brian Lonergan Photo by Joe Buckley

43 points.

The men’s competition was v par and was won

by Noel Hoban with 4 up.

He had one to spare over Tony O’Brien with John Casey, also on 3 up, in third place. Ross Kenny with 3 up won the gross while the category for members with 20+ handicaps was won by Paddy Ryan with 1 down.

Spanish Point Golf Club: President Kathleen Haugh’s prize to the ladies was played for at Spanish Point last week when Fiona O’Boyle emerged as the winner with 35 points. She won on a countback from

Elaine Rouine. Carl Akroyd was third followed

by Mairead Bracken and they both also had 35 points. In fifth place with 34 points was Claire Bracken. Val Shannon won the gross.

Ennis Golf Club: The winners of the ladies open day 18 hole fourball betterball competition, sponsored by Hollys Vital Pharmacy were Phil Butler and Margaret Flanagan with 45 points.

Friday’s open singles was won by Leonard Coote (27) with 44 points from Mark O’Brien (16) with 39 points with third spot filled by Michael Byrt

(14) with 38 points.

Thursday’s senior men’s outing was won by John C McNamara, Matt Flynn, Tommy Heath and Jimmy Kearns with 83 points. They were five ahead of Tony Lawlor, Brian Logue, Joe O’ Brien and Sean Ryan. In third place with 77 points were Pat G. McInerney, Peter Quinn, Kevin Murray and Jim Hennessey followed

by Brendan Pyne, Seamus Bowe, Dave Boylan and PJ Hehir with 76 points.

Kilrush Golf Club: Mary Bolton (19) with 39 points won the Clean Ireland ladies 18 hole singles stableford competi-

tion at Kilrush.

The SuperValu open men’s singles competition was won by Michael J. Hogan (18) with 44 points. He had two to spare over Liam Griffin (18) from Luttrellstown Castle with Noel Kilkenny (20), also with 42 points, in third place followed

by Brian Rogers (31) with 41 points. The gross was won by Padraic O’Dubhslaine with 33 points.

Gort Golf Club: The winner of the men’s 18 hole singles competition at gort last weekend was Noel Ruane (19) with 45 points.

The category winners were Conor Shields (8) with 38 points, Martin Callanan (14) with 42 points and Martin Whelan (24) with 44 points while the gross was won

by Joe Moran (1) with 35 points.

Last week’s ladies singles sponsored by Eurospar Kinvara saw Sinead Collins (9) win category 1 with 38 points. Category 2 was wn by Catherine Burke (28) with 39 points while category 3 was won by Catherine Bailey (39) with 37 points.

Treble for Cooraclare’s McMahon family

by Michael Maher

THERE was no denying the dominant kennel on the card at Galway on Friday night was the McMahon family of Cooraclare who completed a fantastic treble on the night.

The opening contest of the night was an A5 graded 525 yards contest and from traps Lakeside Teagan was very smartly into her stride and racing towards the opening bend she led by over a length from Hanover Maryann on the wide outside with Lissatouk Fred saving valuable ground by cutting to the rails taking the opening bend.

Racing into the back straight the James McMahon owned Lissatouk Fred moved through in the leaders inside to take over in front and in the twinkling of an eye the son of Orchestrate and Portumna Sapphire set sail for home as he powered clear to record his maiden victory at the second attempt by seven lengths from Lakeside Teagan in 29.14 to initiate the kennel double.

The double was completed in the A2 graded fifth contest also over 525 yards as Lissatouk Robbie overcame some interference rounding the opening bend before eventually drawing

clear of his rivals to score by three and a half lengths from Drombeg Wild in 29.48. Racing down the back Island Bobby and Five Alley Rocky matched strides but as they passed halfway the Seamus McMahon owned Lissatouk Robbie powered down the wide outside to take command as the third bend loomed.

Once in front the son of Deerjet Sydney & Lissatouk Peggy set sail for home and was full value for the margin of victory at the line The kennel treble came in the A2 graded finale as the Brid McMahon owned Lissatouk Sydney recorded his third career success taking command approaching halfway on his way to a game one length success from Breaghmore Joeys in 28.83. Turning down the back Lissatouk Sydney swept past the leader in a matter of strides and by halfway the son of Deerjet Sydney and Lissatouk Peggy was almost three lengths clear and setting sail for home. Clear off the home bend the winner began to tread water close home as Breaghmore Joeys called again but the line was always on Lissatouk Sydneys side to complete a memorable night for age McMahon family of Seamus, Brid and their son James.

In the second semi-final of the Irish Retired

Trust A6 525 Stake Pierview Pearl and Killanin Bono were both away well and racing towards the opening bend the disputed the advantage from Maximusdageneral who then muscled his way through along the inner as they negotiated the opening bend to lead then field into the back straight. Turning for home the distress signals were beginning to show on Maximusdageneral as he began to paddle with the How-Deep-IsIt Syndicate owned Run For Mary(Broadstrand Bono-Risky Reward) sweeping through to lead close home and score by a neck for the Stephen Murray kennel of Sixmilebridge in a time of 29.53.

Saturday night’s Galway card featured the semi-finals of the Greene’s Meats Novice 525 Yards Stake with the A3 graded seventh contest over 525 yards the two graded contest of the night.

As the traps rose for the feature event Paradise Honk came away well in the centre of the track as On The Latt trapped well on the wide outside. Approaching the opening bend Paradise Honk trained by Sean Meade of Miltown Malbay led by a length to On The Latt and the pair were four lengths clear of the chasing pack head by Myoldsligogirl entering the back

straight. Racing along the back the Honk Army Syndicate owned Paradise Honk gradually established a command advantage over his rivals and continuing to build on that advantage between the final two bends the son of McInerney and Paradise Brook eased home eight and a half lengths clear of Myoldsligogirl and On The Latt in 29.12.

In the first semi-final of the Greenes Meats Novice 525 Stake On The Wire was away well on the wide outside as Rosie On Faya ,Hollywell Willow and Heathalwn Cash were all prominent towards the inner on the run towards the opening bend . Rounding the bend the Peter Mulrooney owned Rosie On Faya grabbed the rails berth to lead her rivals into the back straight form Ennis and this pair were clear of On The Wire halfway down the back straight. At the third bend Rosie On Faya was again limpid like against the rails and turning for home the Colm Fitzgerald of Kilrush trained daughter of Tommy Shelby and May On Faya was on command as she scored by a length from Ennis with On The Wire seven & a half lengths adrift in third place in 29.85.

29

Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

To place a notice email kieran@clareecho.ie

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL The E.I. Unlimited Company intends to apply to Clare County Council for Permission for development at EI Electronics Unlimited Company, Shannon Free Zone, Drumgeely Townland, Shannon, Co. Clare, V14 H020.

The proposed development will consist of the installation of a rooftop solar photovoltaic system on the roofs of Bay 42 and Bay 43 within Block U, 4047, and the Warehouse and Office Building within the EI Unlimited Company premises. The development will have an approximate capacity of 505 kWp DC and 400 kW AC, comprising approximately 1,010 photovoltaic panels, with an approximate installation area of 9,640.68 square metres, equivalent to approximately 0.964 hectares, together with associated mounting systems, electrical cabling, connection to the existing on site electrical infrastructure, ancillary electrical equipment and all associated site development works.

This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413), and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to Section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with Section 34D(b), the provisions of Article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply.

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, V95 DXP2, 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 (a) 5 weeks, or (b) 2 weeks, in the case of a planning application for small scale solar energy equipment or development that is the installation of a small scale non ground source heat pump, 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: Greenvolt Next Ireland

Limited, Confederation House, Block C and D, Waterford Business Park, Cork Road, Waterford, X91 T449. Phone 051 364054.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL COOLMEEN, LABASHEEDA, CO. CLARE Take notice that Ben Cleary & Helena Coffey intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, wastewater treatment system 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, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis 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 planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKANIRA, DARRAGH, ENNIS, CO CLARE. Take notice that Eanna McInerney & Elaine Keatinge intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house, garage and access road complete with a wastewater treatment system 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, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis 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 planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL GORTYGEEHEEN, LISSYCASEY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Kieran McCarthy & Siobhan O’Connor intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house & garage along with a wastewater treatment system 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, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis 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 planning authority of the application.

PLANNING NOTICE Brian Malone intends to apply to Clare County Council for planning permission to retain and complete works to a storage shed presently under construction at Ballybeg, Ennis, 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 the Planning Authority, Clare County Council Planning Department, 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 to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LEAGARD NORTH, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Ian & Evelyn Sexton intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, wastewater treatment system 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, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis 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 planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLOONLAHEEN MIDDLE, MULLAGH, CO CLARE. Take notice that Eoin Keenan intends to apply for planning permission to extend and renovate the existing derelict dwelling, install a waste treatment system, bore a well & 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 FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS Planning Ref: P26/60279 Development Description: the construction of an extension to the side of an existing derelict dwelling house along with alterations/renovations to the existing house, to construct a domestic garage, a new entrance and a new wastewater treatment system along with ancillary works Location: Cragleagh, Bushypark, Ennis, Co Clare Take notice that Billy O’Sullivan has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P26/60279.

This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL KNOCKDONAGH, TRUAGH, KILMORE, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Michael & David Begley intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted cubicle unit, a calf rearing unit, a silage slab & 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 We, Resilience Healthcare Ltd. intend to apply for Permission for development of this site at Tobarteascain, Ennis, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of: a) Amalgamation of two existing ground floor units to form one ground floor unit b) Change of use from Office to Day Care Service for the provision of daytime care for vulnerable persons c) Existing window replaced with new door to South East Elevation and alterations to existing elevations including window manifestations The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BREAFFY SOUTH, SPANISH POINT, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE Take notice that G. Whiriskey intends to apply to the Planning Authority for full permission to construct a dwelling house, home office and shed and the installation of a proprietary onsite waste water treatment system. Permission is also sought for the alteration of condition no.15 of outline planning permission, P2560436, to allow for the inclusion of a new access point onto the public road along with ancillary site works at the above address.

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

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL I, Kevin D’ Arcy, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning permission for (a)modifications to an existing detached domestic garage (b)the construction of an extension to the side of the existing garage to accommodate two home offices, a games room, den and associated ancillary accommodation and all ancillary site works at Newtown, Ballyvaughan, Co.Clare The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTYCOUNCIL We, GP Joule Ireland Limited intend to apply for permission for the development at this site at the Townlands of Mogullaan, Crossagh, Rathlaheen South, Culleen, Drumline, and Ballycasey Beg, Co. Clare.

The proposed development will consist of an amendment to a previously consented development (Planning Reference 25/260 by Clare County Council) comprising of; (i) the relocation of the permitted IPP substation, (ii) revised 110 kV grid connection infrastructure including the provision of two 110 kV lattice towers, underground cable ducting and associated infrastructure, (iii) amendments to the electrical interface connection arrangement, (iv) the provision of palisade fencing and associated ancillary infrastructure, (v) a minor extension to the permitted development boundary to the west of the site to facilitate the proposed 110 kV lattice tower and associated underground cable infrastructure, and (vi) all associated ancillary works required to facilitate connection to Drumline 110 kV Substation, Co. Clare.

This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413) and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to section 34D of the Planning and

Planning

Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply.

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— a) 5 weeks, or b) 2 weeks, in the case of a planning application for small-scale solar energy equipment development or development that is the installation of a small-scale non-ground source heat pump. 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. For this application the submission period is 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL We, Ben March & Bryonie Hawkins, intend to apply for permission for development at Coore East, Mullagh , County Clare. The development will consist of the construction of a new 2 storey extension to an existing cottage, addition of 2 no. windows to front of existing cottage, and 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 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.

Continues p31

30

Thursday, Aug 13, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Aug 13, 2026

Quiz

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

The Clare Echo Quiz

Which Communist revolutionary visited Kilkee in 1962?

Mao Zedong Che Guevara Joseph Stalin

Which ship sank off the coast of Kilkee in 1836?

Intrinsic Intrepid Edmund Fitzgerald

A statue of which Irish actor stands in Kilkee?

Richard Harris Cillian Murphy Brendan Gleeson

How many holes are on Kilkee Golf Club?

9 18 21

What is the population of Kilkee as per the 2022 Census?

2500 1945 1214

In what year was the first church built in Kilrush? (See note above.)

1831 1834 1835

How far is Kilkee from Kilrush?

15km 11km 20km

Kilkee was awarded what colour flag for its beaches?

Blue Red Black

Percy French wrote what satirical song about the West Clare Railway in 1896?

Spancil Hill Are Ye Right There Michael?

The Rising of the Moon

What is the Eircode prefix for Kilkee?

V95 V15 V23

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ANSWERS Intrinsic 18 1831 Blue V15

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL I, Sarah Casey, intend to apply for permission for development at Clonboney, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of demolition of existing extensions, construction of new single storey extension to existing cottage, amendments to existing entrance and wall along road boundary, new hedge at boundary, new septic tank, wastewater treatment system and percolation area, soakaways, connection to mains water and 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 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 I, Kevin D’ Arcy, wish to apply to the above named local authority for planning

permission for (a)modifications to an existing detached domestic garage (b)the construction of an extension to the side of the existing garage to accommodate two home offices, a games room, den and associated ancillary accommodation and all ancillary site works at Newtown, Ballyvaughan, Co.Clare The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the office of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Che Guevara Richard Harris 1214 11km Are Ye Right There Michael?

Plannings continued from p29

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

Licence applications Case No: D:LIC:ENIS:2026:006466 An Chuirt Duiche The District Court No. 86 Public Dance Halls Act, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 Fergus Gately as NomineeApplicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Fergus Gately as nominee of Bunratty Shopping Village Limited of Blarney Woolen Mills, Blarney, Cork, Ireland intends to apply to the District Court at Ennis District Court on the 25 Sep 2026 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence at Bunratty Castle Hotel, Bunratty West, Bunratty, Co. Clare , situate at Bunratty West, Bunratty, Clare in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 06 Aug 2026 Signed Hassett Considine LLP Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, 9 & 10 Carmody Street, Business Park Ennis, Clare To the Garda Superintendent, at CT.Clare.

CE@Garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83 To the Fire Officer, at fireoff@ clarecoco.ie, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 CD74 To the Co Council Official, at corporate@clarecoco.ie, Clare County Council, Ennis, Clare, V95 DXP2 To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

Case No: D:LIC:ENIS:2026:006465 An Chuirt Duiche The District Court No. 86 Public Dance Halls Act, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 Donal Lyne as Nominee Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Donal Lyne as nominee of Abbey River Investments Limited of 41 Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, Ireland intends to apply to the District Court at Ennis District Court on the 25 Sep 2026 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence at Queens Hotel & Niteclub , situate at Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, . in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 06 Aug 2026 Signed Hassett Considine LLP Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, 9 & 10 Carmody Street, Business Park Ennis, Clare To the Garda Superintendent, at CT.Clare.

CE@Garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83 To the Fire Officer, at fireoff@ clarecoco.ie, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 CD74 To the Co Council Official, at corporate@clarecoco.ie, Clare County Council, Ennis, Clare, V95 DXP2 To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

Case No: D:LIC:ENIS:2026:006447 An Chuirt Duiche The District Court No. 86 Public Dance Halls Act, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 Sean O’ Driscoll as Nominee Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Sean O’ Driscoll as nominee of iNua Limerick General Partner Limited of 4th Floor, Anglesea Street , Ballintemple, Cork, Ireland intends to apply to the District Court at Ennis District Court on the 25 Sep 2026 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence at Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Ennis Road, Limerick, situate at Ennis Road, Limerick, Clare in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 06 Aug 2026 Signed Hassett Considine LLP Solicitor for Applicant Solicitors, 9 & 10 Carmody Street, Business Park Ennis, Clare To the Garda Superintendent, at CT.Clare.

CE@Garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83 To the Fire Officer, at fireoff@ clarecoco.ie, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 CD74 To the Co Council Official, at corporate@clarecoco.ie, Clare County Council, Ennis, Clare, V95 DXP2 To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

31

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