The Clare Echo 14/05/26

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May31, 14,2024 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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‘I was told that it was car parts’ claims the accused

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A CLARE man has told a court that he never knew that three pallets couriered to his grand-mother’s address in West Clare last Friday contained an alleged €2m drugs consignment.

At Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Odhran O’Brien (32) said, “Can I say something? I never knew what was on that pallet, it was my grandmother’s address. I was told that it was car parts.”

During a contested bail hearing, Mr O’Brien of Cahermurphy, Kilmihil, Co Clare told Judge

Adrian Harris “I have no words for the situation that I am in”.

In the case, Mr O’Brien is charged with having in his possession cannabis for the purpose of selling at Cahermurphy, Kilmihil, Co Clare on May 8th last contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977.

Judge Harris remanded Mr O’Brien in custody to appear via video link from prison at Ennis District Court on May 27th.

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‘He gave everything to the community’ - memorial bench for activits Dermot Hayes requested for new dialysis unit

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

DERMOT HAYES’ outstanding advocacy and his ability to converse has put momentum behind a new campaign to have a bench named in his memory.

Corofin native Dermot died in January of this year, a month previous he was honoured by the Clare Leader Forum with a lifetime achievement award for his tireless work over thirty as a leading disability activist.

At Tuesday’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) proposed that the local authority link in with the HSE to honour Dermot’s memory by naming “a bench at the new kidney dialysis unit in Ennis after Dermot, recognising his significant contributions as a lifelong advocate for individuals with disabilities and his role as Chairman of the Clare Branch of the Irish Kidney Foundation. Should benches not be part of the current plans, the team will formally request the installation of a bench in a mutually agreed-upon location with the HSE”.

Senior engineer with the Ennis MD, Hugh McGrath stated, “The principle of provision of seating as requested to facilitate the public at the kidney dialysis unit or another suitably chosen location is supported provided the necessary approvals are in place where the public space is to be utilised”.

“Our community lost a very valuable servant recently,” remarked Cllr Guilfoyle of Dermot’s death. “He fought day and night for better services for people more vulnerable than us. Dermot Hayes was one of the founding members of Clare branch of Irish Kidney Association”.

He said he had received the family’s blessing before tabling the motion. “Dermot always wanted a place to sit to have a

conversation. When he was putting down his aides, he wanted to sit down and have a chat”. Naming a bench after Comrade Hayes “would be a small mark for what the man did for us as a community”.

Clarecastle based Guilfoyle continued, “Comrade Hayes always kept me on my toes as an activist, I was never let turn right, I was always turning left, I hope when the bench is there it will be a day for the community because he gave everything to the community and he struggled so much”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) commented, “when you become a public representative, without doubt the first person you would have met was Dermot, he was the type of person you’d sit with and he wanted somewhere to sit, unless he believed then the conversation didn’t go further than a few minutes, he was totally dedicated to the most vulnerable in our society”.

Hailing Dermot’s volunteerism and activism, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) said, “He was a unique man and no matter how sick he was, he always volunteered his time and fought for everyone else. Tommy worked with him closely, he knows the family and where best this bench should be put”.

According to Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), “Dermot is missed, he was a larger than life character. The last time I met him was when the Clare Leader Forum recognised him for his work, he was in great form”.

Supporting the proposal, Cllr Pat Daly (FF) stated, “Dermot did so much work for people with disabilities in the county not to mention the lobbying he did for the new dialysis unit. He was so frustrated that Ennis didn’t have a dialysis unit”.

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€2m drug accused tells court he was told consignment was ‘car parts’

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A County Clare man has told a court that he never knew that three pallets couriered to his grand-mother’s address in west Clare last Friday contained an alleged €2m drugs consignment.

At Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Odhran O’Brien (32) said: “Can I say something? I never knew what was on that pallet - it was my grand-mother’s address. I was told that it was car parts.”

During a contested bail hearing, Mr O’Brien of Cahermurphy, Kilmihil, Co Clare told Judge Adrian Harris “I have no words for the situation that I am in.”

Mr O’Brien’s sister and partner were in court for the hearing and Mr O’Brien said: “I just want to go back to my family.”

In the case, Mr O’Brien is charged with having in his possession cannabis for the purpose of selling at Cahermurphy, Kilmihil, Co Clare on May 8th last contrary to Sec-

tion 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977.

Mr O’Brien is also charged with the unlawful possession of cannabis on the same date at the same address.

Mr O’Brien was first brought before a special sitting of Ennis District Court on Saturday and remanded in custody to appear at Ennis District Court today.

Mr O’Brien said today that he would agree to any conditions connected to him securing bail.

He said: “Anything that I am asked to do I will do.”

Referring to his family, Mr O’Brien said: “I am so sorry for them for what has happened.”

However, Judge Harris refused bail and remanded Mr O’Brien in custody after Gardai objected to bail.

Det Garda Dáithí King told the court that Mr O’Brien had been caught ‘red-handed’ concerning the alleged drugs seizure.

Det Garda King said that on May 8th Gardai went to the property after executing a misuse of

drugs warrant and when approaching Mr O’Brien at the property he threw two mobile phones into a nearby field.

He said that Gardai discovered three pallets located in a shed at the address and these were wrapped in plastic and subsequently found to contain 40 packets of suspected cannabis.

He said that the cannabis totalled 100kgs of suspected cannabis and the State would value the drugs at €2m.

He said that the pallets were received by Mr O’Brien from a courier earlier that day.

Det Garda King said that Mr O’Brien says he is now drug free after indicating that he was previously addicted to cannabis.

Det Garda King said that while in custody Mr O’Brien made Garda aware of a drug debt he had accumulated over the years.

Det King alleged that the quantity of cannabis suggests Mr O’Brien “is at the upper end of the food chain judge”.

Det King claimed Mr O’Brien is a potential flight risk and told Gardai that he had employment lined up in England.

Solicitor for Mr O’Brien, John Casey said that Mr O’Brien’s sister was in court to provide an independent surety if required.

Mr Casey said that this is a case that will go forward on indictment to the circuit court and if bail is refused, Mr O’Brien will be in custody for a substantial period of time pending the trial.

Mr Casey asked Judge Harris not to be swayed by the €2m value that Gardai have put on the drugs and let that not be the determining factor in making his decision on the bail application.

Mr Casey said that the positive factors in the bail application outweigh that factor.

Judge Harris remanded Mr O’Brien in custody to appear via video link from prison at Ennis District Court on May 27th.

Chances of acute hospital in Clare very slim

CLARE’s chances of having a new acute hospital built remain slim following the Minister for Health’s first official visit to the county, writes Páraic McMahon.

Two months on from the announcement of the decision to build a new €14m hospital in Raheen, Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (FG) visited Clare. Organised by Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) the visit was to allow the Minister “see first-hand the reality of healthcare delivery on the ground”.

Deputy Cooney told The Clare Echo he was pleased the Minister accepted his invitation to visit Clare. “A key part of the visit was bringing the Minister to West and North Clare to meet local communities and hear directly about the challenges people face, particularly the long distances many must travel to access emergency care in Limerick or Galway. These are issues that are best understood by being here and speaking with people directly.

“We also discussed hospital capacity, ambulance services and the need to strengthen local provision, especially at Ennis Hospital.

“While the wider development of a Model 4 hospital in Limerick is part of the regional picture, Clare must also see real investment in services locally. I want to thank everyone who took the time to engage today. It was an important and constructive visit and I look forward to continuing the work to ensure Clare’s needs are heard and acted on,” he added.

Among the groups that the Minister met were Friends of Ennis Hospital (FEH) and its Chairperson Angela Coll described the meeting as “robust and important”. She was disappointed that the building of an acute hospital in Clare is not on the Minister’s agenda. “During the meeting, FEH again strongly pressed the case for an acute hospital in Clare for Clare. However, the group said that while there was discussion around expanding services in Ennis Hospital, no commitments were received in relation to the development of an acute hospital for the county”.

The group pointed out that Ennis Hospital currently has one of the lowest consultant staffing levels of any Model 2 hospital in the country.

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Doora influencer in with chance to appear on Beast Games, global hit TV show

by Amy Copley news@clareecho.ie

A YOUNG social media influencer from Doora is in with a chance to appear on a television show with 50 million global viewers.

Ella Deasy (20) has the potential to join global phenonium Mr Beast on his Amazon Prime tv show, Beast Games. The gameshow which sees the overall victor win a $5 million cash prize, is its third season, with this year’s theme being ‘One Person from Every Country on Earth’.

Ella stumbled into a TikTok career by posting videos with her two sisters, Zara and Tori. The three sisters posted videos on TikTok aiming to promote their parent’s shop, Deasy’s Centra, in Clarecastle, which the family recently sold.

“It wasn’t even planned.

I feel like we just started making videos for fun.

I think my parents were looking for staff at the time and then we were

making posts and people loved them, and then it kind of just fell into place,” Ella tells The Clare Echo.

Combined the three sisters, they amass a near 500k followers on TikTok. ‘Mr Beast’ is one of the world’s most famous and powerful internet stars and his team reached out to Ella in January to apply for the show.

Ella admits she initially thought it was a scam.

“They just said they love my content and thought I would be a good fit,” says Ella, noting that she entered “thinking nothing of it”.

“Then I just kept getting on to the next stage of it and I was like wait, this might actually go somewhere”.

Ella is up with a chance to represent Ireland in the television show.

The show is loosely based off the South Korean hit television series ‘Squid Games’, the show puts an emphasis on testing human limits physically, mentally and socially.

The contestants on the show compete in a number of mental and physical challenges to be up for the chance to win a $5 million cash prize, the largest amount cash prize to ever be won on a game show.

Ella admits, “I’d love, obviously to win the money, but I think even the experience itself would be insane.

“I think to be chosen to represent not only Clare, but Ireland would be insane”.

Ella also laughs that there was no rivalry between her sisters for the spot on the TV show, “Tori, it’s not her vibe whatsoever, so she really did not care at all. I also don’t think it would be a bit of Zara either. I think they were like, ‘we’ll let Ella have this, like it’s a bit of her’.”

Social media has already helped open a world of opportunities to Ella, most notably her job with clothing company, Bound Apparel. Ella applied to become their social media

intern, which has now turned into a fulltime job with them.

Although Ella has received an overwhelming amount of positivity back from her content online and is one of Ireland’s fastest growing influencers, negative and scrutiny also finds a way to seep through, especially when posting online.

Ella explains “Honestly, I think not reading the comments is nearly the best thing to do, because once you start reading comments, it can really get to you.”

Despite the negativity, Ella urges anyone who wants to give content creation a shot, to just go for it, “I honestly think just start posting, even posting three times a week and then you can obviously start posting every day and then, start reaching out to brands”.

l Doora’s Ella Deasy and (inset) Mr Beast

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Kilkee mother had open bottle of wine on passenger seat & cocktail of drugs in system before killing teacher

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A DRUNK female driver had her two young children with her and an open bottle of wine on the passenger seat when she crashed her car into and killed ‘gifted’ teacher and cyclist Michael Lorigan, a court has heard.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford has imposed a five year prison term suspending the final six months on Saoirse Lillis McMahon (33) for the dangerous driving causing death of Michael Lorigan (70) on August 16th 2023 on the N67 at Baunmore, Kilkee.

Judge Comerford also imposed a seven year driving ban on Ms Lillis McMahon of Moveen East, Kilkee who was driving under the influence of alcohol and had a ‘cocktail’ of drugs in her system, including cocaine.

During the sentencing hearing, Ms Lillis McMahon wept as the circumstances around the crash were laid out and during four victim impact statements read out to the court.

Imposing sentence, Judge Comerford said that Ms Lillis McMahon was driving the car “when she was completely unfit to drive and posed a real danger to anyone that she came across”.

Judge Comerford said that Ms Lillis McMahon posed “a very real danger” to her two boys, aged six and nine at the time, who were passengers in the car, due to the intoxicants that she had taken.

l Saoirse Lillis McMahon

Mr Lorigan was coming towards the end of a 55 mile cycle and was just five miles away from meeting his wife, Dympna in Kilkee where the two planned to celebrate their 39th wedding anniversary.

In one of a number of heart-rendering victim impact statements read out in court, Dympna said that she passed Michael out in her car at 12.15pm on the day on her way to Kilkee and she commented “that was the last time I saw him alive”.

Ten minutes later, local Gardaí received a call from a motorist of a car driving erratically on the N67 and Gardaí despatched a car to the area.

However, before Gardaí arrived, the same motorist phoned Gardaí again to see that she had just witnessed that same blue Vauxhall Astra car crash into a cyclist.

In evidence, Garda Noreen King told the court that Ms Lillis McMahon’s car struck Mr Lorigan’s bicycle from behind as the two were

both heading towards Kilkee.

Garda King said that motorists had witnessed Ms Lillis McMahon’s car swerving across the road before impact. Garda King said that conditions for driving were good on the day and Ms Lillis McMahon struck Mr Lorigan on a long straight stretch of road.

Mr Lorigan who spent his entire teaching career in The Modh Scoil in Limerick and lived in Kilkishen, Co Clare was wearing a helmet and counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Co Clare, Aisling Casey) said that a post mortem found that Mr Lorigan died from blunt force injuries to the neck and head.

Mr Lorigan was pronounced dead at the scene.

Garda King said that Ms Lillis McMahon and her two children were all visibly upset at the scene.

Garda King said that an open bottle of wine was observed on the front passenger seat of Ms Lillis McMahon’s car.

Ms Comerford said that Ms Lillis McMahon was unsteady on her feet and was cautioned immediately due to the strong smell of alcohol.

Ms Comerford said that Lillis McMahon subsequently failed a test for alcohol where she showed a 93mg of alcohol per 100ml of urine, the legal limit is 67mg of alcohol and she was fifty percent over the legal limit. Garda crash scene investigator, Garda Brendan Condon found that Lillis McMahon was driving

at a speed of between 81kmph and 99 kmph before impact and did not brake before impact.

The report by Garda Condon found that the car was dangerously defective. The speed limit for that stretch of road was 100km ph.

Garda King said that after caution Ms Lillis McMahon said “I cannot believe that I have killed a man”. Ms Lillis McMahon had stayed with a friend the previous night in Crusheen where there were some drugs taken.

At Garda interview, Ms Lillis McMahon expressed remorse and said that she thought of Mr Lorigan’s wife all the time She said, “I am sorry it happened, the night before wasn’t planned at all. I had my kids with me. It shouldn’t have happened. I think about his wife all the time. I am so sorry. I felt really guilty just walking after it happened. I haven’t left the house in months, I didn’t want to drive the car that morning but I knew that I had to leave that house”.

Counsel for Ms Lillis McMahon, Lorcan Connolly SC (instructed by solicitor John Casey) said that his client wants to acknowledge “the profound and irreversible loss suffered by Mr Lorigan’s wife, family, friends and wider community”.

Mr Connolly said that Mr Lorigan “was a gifted person and his loss is enormous” and he was completely and utterly blameless for what happened on the day.

He said that “in a heartbeat the

accused would switch places”.

Mr Connolly said that Ms Lillis McMahon “won’t be able to forgive herself and she will continue to live with shame and regret”.

He said that she has lost custody of her children, lost her job and lives in isolation from her community. He said that she had a history of mental health difficulties.

The court was told that Ms Lillis McMahon was uninsured to drive the Vauxhall Astra and was disqualified from driving on the day but that disqualification was subsequently overturned on appeal.

Imposing sentence, Judge Comerford imposed a headline 96 month prison term and reduced it to 60 months due to Ms Lillis McMahon’s early plea of guilty and remorse.

Judge Comerford suspended the final six months on condition that she co-operate with the Probation Service after the service stated that it can intervene with her problematic drink and drug taking.

Addressing Dympna Lorigan and members of the Lorigan family, Judge Comerford said “no matter what sentence I select I can’t undo the harm that is done”.

Judge Comerford noted that last Sunday would have been Mr Lorigan’s 73 birthday and should have been a day of celebration for the Lorigan family.

Ms Lillis McMahon wept as she was led away out of the courtroom by prison officers to commence her sentence.

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Lisdoonvarna retailer jailed for sexual abuse of school boy in 1980s - judge says testimonials “aren’t valueless”

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A judge has jailed a Lisdoonvarna retailer for two years and seven months for the sexual abuse of a then primary school-boy in the 1980s.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford imposed a 43 month prison term, suspending the final 12 months on company director, Noel Jordan (59) of Jordan's Mace, Main Street, Lisdoonvarna for the ‘sustained’ indecent

assaults on Seán Collins on dates over a six year period between February 1980 to February 1986.

Mr Collins aged seven at the start of the offending in February 1980 and Mr Jordan was aged 14 and the abuse continued until February 1986 when Mr Collins was about to turn 13 and Mr Jordan was 19.

The two lived on the same street in the north Clare town of Lisdoonvarna and Judge Comerford said that Mr

Jordan had engaged in “serious offending” and “knew that he was doing wrong”.

Judge Comerford said that this is a case where the fact of imprisonment is the most decisive factor saying a perpetrator rightfully faces "social disgrace" when committing offences against a child.

At the sentencing hearing earlier this month, Mr Jordan’s sister, Deirdre gave character evidence on her brother’s behalf com-

menting “Noel is a very caring person and does everything for everyone else”.

She said: “We know Noel did wrong but I mean he was young at the time. It doesn’t excuse it but it is a fact of it."

In sentencing Mr Jordan, Judge Comerford commented that testimonials “are a source of controversy now”.

He said: “It is a difficult thing for people to get into the witness box and speak up for an offender.

All of the sympathies are rightfully with the injured party and obviously that should be the case."

J u d g e Comerford said that testimonials in such a case “aren’t valueless”.

He said that he would impose a headline indi-

cation sentence of 52 months in prison on Mr Jordan and reduced the sentence to 43 months with the final 12 months suspended arising mainly from Mr Jordan’s guilty plea and leading a ‘blameless’ life since the offending.

Judge Comerford said that in the case, Noel Jordan should be approached on the basis that he did not follow the offending with any further wrongful interaction with children.

Mr Jordan had offered €20,000 as a token of his remorse to Seán Collins and Mr Collins turned down the offer. Judge Comerford directed Mr Jordan pay €10,000 to Barnardos.

Mr Jordan pleaded guilty on a full facts basis to six separate charges of indecent assaults on Mr Collins at various locations including Lisdoonvarna National School, in the garden of the Collins home, at the rear of Jordan’s Mace, at The Community Centre otherwise known as The Pavilion, at Jordan’s Mace Store and at Ardeamish, Lisdoonvarna.

Judge Comerford said that ‘great harm’ was done by Mr Jordan to Mr Collins and the offending “was sustained over a number of years and involved threats”.

Judge Comerford said that Mr Jordan - now a registered sex offender - was significantly older than Seán Collins “and had power and authority that came from someone who was older”.

In his victim impact statement, Mr Collins said: “I have beaten the devil. I couldn’t care less about Noel Jordan, now it is his time to cry."

He said: “I do not identify as a victim, I identify as a survivor.

I do not wish to elicit sympathy from anyone, I assume the justice system is fully aware of the impact of being sexually abused as a child.”

Mr Collins said: “I picture this as being the day I walk up to the terrified seven year old version of myself who has been crying out to be noticed and heard."

“I am going to put my arms around him and tell him 'you don’t need to be afraid anymore'.

GUILTY: Noel Jordan

Photo by Eamon Ward

I’m going to protect you’.”

Judge Comerford said that Mr Jordan told the Probation Service that he did not intend to hurt Mr Collins.

The Probation Report stated that Mr Jordan does not express any sexual preference for children.

Mr Jordan apologised to Seán Collins. He said: “I would like to apologise to Seán for all the hurt I have caused him.

This weighed heavily on me all my life.

He said: “I wish I could turn back the clock but I can’t.”

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Hilltop Animal Sanctuary feeling strain of rising costs

by Lena Kandler St Flannan’s TY student

Nestled in the heart of County Clare, the Hilltop Animal Sanctuary is a privately owned farm providing a safe haven for animals that have suffered severe neglect, physical abuse and trauma.

Hilltop was set up by Catriona Lowry and Pat Tobin. Catriona’s deep empathy for abandoned animals fueled the sanctuary’s creation. She simply couldn’t stand by and watch animals be dumped without offering them a second chance at a better life.

At the time Catriona lived in town with a small backyard that lacked all the space she needed to care for these animals.

She would often reach out to friends to take animals in need, as she didn’t have the facilities to take all the animals herself, but she felt she could not just leave them there.

Catriona eventually found a solution with Pat Tobin. If she had any horses with nowhere to go, he provided land and stables in East Clare making the arrangement fundamental to creating the sanctuary.

Catriona’s initial interest rose when she was creating the display windows in a charity shop in Ennis. It was here she observed people casually donating animal they didn’t want anymore.

From that moment

SANCTUARY: Catriona Lowry is committed to animal welfare in Co. Clare

Catriona decided to rescue animals and has been rescuing horses since 2015. She has over 160 rescue animals, 10 of which have sadly passed away due to old age.

She currently has a variety of animals from rabbits, donkeys, ponies, horses, dogs, and cats with rescued goats and pigs among the animals that have since died. Many of the animals get along except for a few cases, where animals have suffered severe PTSD from past

trauma.

FELVFIV-feline leukemia virus is a highly contagious condition found in cats and another reason some rescue animals have to be kept in isolation. The sharing of food bowls can spread the virus, resulting in poor immunity.

FIV-feline Aids is a slow acting virus that weakens a cat’s immune system. It is primarily spread through bite wounds during fights.

To prevent this, cats must be neutered or kept indoors, resulting

further expense to the sanctuary.

Catriona, who works as a guidance counselor and writer, pays for everything out of her own pocket, with increased care bringing proportional financial implications.

The GoFundMe started after the prolonged winter saw expenses for hay, feed and bedding, skyrocket. On top of that May expenses included numerous cats to be neutered, new ponies to be yielded and donkeys and horses to be seen by the farrier.

These appointments are vital to the comfort, mobility, and structural soundness of the animals. Such care ensures they can move freely without pain and suffering often caused by extreme wear and tear.

Catriona told The Clare Echo, “Monthly costs can vary from sick animals needing medication or vet visits, to keeping dogs and cats fed. Monthly food prices can start from €200, not including the cost of special dietary feed.”

Regardless of obstacles, Catriona remains committed to the Welfare and care of animals.

She doesn’t get funding, so has to use any income she earns.

There remains countless animals being abandoned with no food on the side of roads or even worse locked in dark sheds forcing the sanctuary to buy more land

for equine rescues.

“The brutal truth of animal rescue is that it can be very challenging at times, when you see the lasting imprints of cruelty and neglect”, she explains. “Many animals carry deep emotional wounds from their past often causing challenging behaviors for even the most compassionate caregivers”.

This shows the complex reality of trauma, fear and the slow, vital process of rebuilding trust. The simple act of approaching an animal with a collar can evoke fear and anger, not as aggression but as a primal response to past torment.

Some specific examples given by Catriona include severely mistreated horses and donkeys, with some having faced life-threatening abuse and dogs who start shaking and hide when they hear certain noises. This history of trauma leaves them with an inability to trust humans.

Catriona loves rescuing bonded pairs as she hates seeing them being split up. She cherishes seeing them grow old together.

One of Catriona’s favorite rescue stories is about border collies that came from Madra rescue in Galway.

Packed into a dimly lit shed, 36 collies huddling together for warmth, Madra animal rescue liberated

them.

Two of them, aged 13 and 11, were blind andstruggling to find homes so Catriona decided to take them. They didn’t know what it was like to be petted or to play with toys when they came, she created a safe space for them with their own playhouse. She was told not to pet them as they did not like that.

One day she decided to sit with them, to show them she was available for whenever they were ready to get petted. It was a warm sunny day and Catriona dozed off.

She woke up to a miraculous surprise. Both of the collies had their heads on her knees, one on each knee. This was such a special moment for both the collies and Catriona, a sign that the collies felt safe in her presence.

The Collies were

found locked in a shed, so they didn’t get to go through normal stages of development. When Catriona saw the elderly Collie playing like he was a puppy, it melted her heart.

Her favorite thing about this job is seeing fear leaving animals and them finally being happy and safe, the joy they get when she fills their bowls with food.

Support from the community is crucial at this time. All donations not only address immediate needs but also help ensure that the sanctuary can continue its caring work for these animals. Catriona’s work and dedication towards caring for these animals can make a difference.

“Why should animals be treated any less than humans? They have the same capacity to feel emotions.”

SHINY CAR LOANS

Bealtaine Voices reach new heights Clare Arts Office will once again host Bealtaine Voices, a community choir event, at 2pm on Sunday, May 17, 2026.

Taking place at The Height in Ennis, this event will showcase the space as a wonderful civic venue for open air activities.

Clare County Council invites everyone to this family-friendly event with singer, musician, producer, and proud Ennis man Mike Hanrahan of Stockton’s Wing leading the way.

Mike will be

PROUD ENNIS MAN: Mike Hanrahan leads the way at celebrated Bealtaine event

joined by the St Michael’s Villas Choir, The Really Truly Joyful Ennis Gospel Choir, Loinnir Youth Choir, Suara

Women’s Community Choir, Harmony Bro and the Clare Community Choir.

Bealtaine is a national festival cele-

brating Creativity in Older Age and Mike Hanrahan has been a Bealtaine Festival Ambassador since 2024.

He is also the Clare Age Friendly Ambassador working with Age Friendly Ireland in ensuring that Ireland is a place where people can be proud to age in.

We l l - k n o w n as the Stockton’s Wing frontman, Ballymaloe-trained chef and songwriter, Mike Hanrahan has worked with the Irish music scene since the 1970s.

His memoir ‘Beautiful Affair: A Journey with Music, Food and Friendship’ was published in 2019

and was shortlisted for the An Post Irish Book Awards.

He is wellknown for presenting music shows on RTÉ. Currently, he is exploring links between creativity, music and dementia as part of his role as Senior Fellow at The Global Brain Health Institute at Trinity College.

Bealtaine Voices is a walk-up, open air event. No seating is provided but audience members are welcome to bring folding chairs, cushions, or blankets to sit on.

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12

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Summer Camps

Finding your child’s creative passion at Ennis Art School At Ennis Art school it is believed that every child is unique and brimming with creative potential.

That potential will be fostered at Ennis Art School’s summer camps in a hands-on creative environment, under the guidance of well-known local artist Carmel Doherty.

Carmel (pictured) has over 30 years’ art teaching experience and has a marvelous ability in helping students develop award winning paintings and drawings.

Carmel tells The Clare Echo that while enjoyment and unlocking creativity are the main purpose of her teachings, there have also been signs of real development through Ennis Art School.

“This year alone we have won first place

in AIB Children’s Portrait Competition, two Special Merit Awards in Texaco Childrens Art, 3rd in Paint a Poem Feile Luimnigh and a finalist in This is Art,” she said.

Carmel added, “But it’s not all about winning. Social interaction and development is also very important, enabling confidence and pride in accomplishing beautiful art pieces, taking a central position on any wall.”

Campaí samhraidh trí Ghaeilge BEIDH campaí samhraidh trí Ghaeilge ag filleadh ar Inis i mbliana, ag tairiscint clár bríomhar lán le gníomhaíochtaí spraíúla, oideachasúla agus cruthaitheacha do leanaí bunscoile.

Beidh na campaí ar siúl i nGaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg agus i nGaelcholáiste an Chláir i rith mhí an Mheithimh agus mhí Iúil.

Irish language summer camps will return to Ennis this year, offering a lively and engaging programme of fun, educational and creative activities for primary school children. The camps will take place in Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg and in Gaelcholáiste an Chláir throughout June and July.

Tá na campaí roinnte ina dhá leibhéal: l Céimeanna Beaga: do pháistí ó

Naíonáin shóisearacha go Rang a Dó (Junior Infants- 2nd Class) l Scléip an tSamhraidh: do pháistí ó Rang a Trí go Rang a Sé (3rd-6th Class) Tá na campaí dírithe ar thumadh nádúrtha sa Ghaeilge trí mheán spóirt, ceardaíochta, cluichí agus gníomhaíochtaí eile a spreagann foghlaim agus cumarsáid i suíomh dearfach agus tacúil.

The camps aim to promote natural language immersion through sport, arts and crafts, games, and a wide range of activities that support language learning and communication in a positive, encouraging environment.

Bígí Linn don spraoi agus don Ghaeilge!

Former Boys National School site a ‘key project’ as Ennis 2040 DAC retained

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council has confirmed that Ennis 2040 DAC will be retained with a revised remit which will focus on a smaller number of key development projects including the former Boys National School site.

The announcement follows completion of the independent Strategic Review of Ennis 2040 DAC by Shannon International Development Consultants. The review commissioned by the Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly, concluded there is a strong business case to retain the DAC with the revised remit.

The review of Ennis 2040 DAC took place in tandem with Clare County Council’s proposed variation of the County Development Plan, which recommends omitting proposed projects at the Abbey Street Carpark, Harvey’s Quay Carpark and the Post Office Field from the Ennis 2040 Economic and Spatial Strategy.

These Clare County Council owned sites

had been advanced by Ennis 2040 DAC on behalf of the Council.

Under the review’s recommendations, the DAC’s focus will be on four core Ennis-based projects: the former Boys National School site, Ashfield House, and in conjunction with Clare County Council, the proposed housing development at Francis Street and activating housing lands at Claureen.

The revised remit brings clarity to the DAC’s purpose and future funding model. The Council has confirmed that to date €6.2 million of the €10 million loan approved for the DAC by the Council has been drawn down and will be repaid when the property assets purchased with the loan are activated. The Council has also clarified that expenditure of €2.6 million on progressing projects associated with Council owned sites at Abbey Street Carpark, Harvey’s Quay Car Park and the Post Office Field were not part of this loan.

Clare County Council will continue its lead role in Ennis town development,

supported by Ennis 2040 DAC, which will have a defined responsibility in progressing key sites identified in the Ennis 2040 Economic and Spatial Strategy.

Chief Executive of Clare County Coun-

cil Gordon Daly said, “This review provides a clear way forward. It supports the retention of Ennis 2040 DAC with a focused remit to progress a number of key strategic sites in Ennis, working in close alignment with Clare County Council.

This approach will provide greater clarity on roles, governance and financing, and will support delivery of the council’s strategic objectives.”

Chair of the Ennis 2040 DAC Gerry Cahill welcomed the clarity provided by the strategic review. “The review notes that the DAC structure has proven positive in supporting economic development at named sites and the DAC is particularly effective where there is a focused approach to selected sites and the right specialist expertise is in place. Ennis 2040 now has the opportunity to move forward with clear priorities.”

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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News

April 2026 – Clare Age Friendly Programme Updates

Bealtaine Art Expo

Road Safety for Older People A free Road Safety and Information and Demonstration Event for older road users was held on Saturday, 18 April 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Clare Marts, Quin Road, Ennis.

The event was organised by the Clare Older People’s Council in partnership with Clare County Council’s Age Friendly Programme.

The afternoon featured

practical demonstrations and advice on safe driving, roundabout use, and road safety for motorists, pedestrians, and cyclists. An Garda Síochána attended alongside the Local Community Safety Partnership, providing a property marking service and crime prevention advice. RSA driving instructor Chris Quin was also present, offering guidance to road users on safe and confident driving.

Keith Whyte of Pat Foudy & Daughter car-

ried out complimentary tyre checks for car and van owners, while Clare Fire Brigade personnel engaged with attendees, providing advice on fire service procedures and what to expect during a road traffic accident.

The event was well attended and provided a valuable opportunity for older road users to access expert advice, practical supports, and safety information in a welcoming and accessible setting.

Left to Right: Sugitha Kumar, Day Care Centre Manager, Carrigoran Health and Wellness Centre, Patricia Doody, Artist, Mary Russell, Artist and Shanelle Waring, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager

The Bealtaine Art Expo took place on Thursday 16th April, 2026 at the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis, celebrating the creativity of older people across County Clare. The exhibition showcased a vibrant collection of artworks created by clients of Clarecastle Day Care Centre, Carrigoran Day Care Centre, Raheen Day

Care Centre and Community Nursing Unit, and Ennistymon Community Hospital.

The event ran from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, with a well-attended evening viewing held from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Admission was free, encouraging the public to engage with and enjoy the diverse range of artistic pieces on

display.

As part of the Bealtaine Festival, selected artworks from the expo will also be exhibited throughout May in libraries across Ennis, Shannon, Scariff, and Ennistymon, ensuring wider community access to the work and continuing the celebration of creativity in later life.

Cllr. Paul Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council with Michael Cusack, Clare OPC & Event Organiser with the Event Operations Team at the Road Safety for Older People Event

Launch of Reading for Wellness Programme in Kilkee

Left to right: Roisin Meaney, Author, Cillian Keane, Mental Health Ireland, Carole Head, Larry Hally, Chairperson, Clare OPC, Cathaoirleach Paul Murphy, Clare County Council, Anne Finucane, Kilkee Branch Library, Frances Pender, Kilrush Branch Library, Lauretta O’Dea, Author, Shanelle Waring, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager at the launch of the Reading for Wellness Programme in Kilkee

THE Reading for Wellness Programme was officially launched at Cultúrlann Sweeney Library in Kilkee, with Cathaoirleach Cllr. Paul Murphy welcoming attendees and marking the occasion.

Cllr. Murphy said he was delighted to support an initiative that placed wellbeing, connection, and community at its heart. He noted the increasing awareness of the importance of mental health and emotional wellbeing, particularly for older people, and highlighted loneliness and social isolation as significant

challenges.

He explained that the Reading for Wellness Programme offered a simple yet effective response by creating a welcoming space for shared reading, conversation, and connection. Reading together, he said, encouraged reflection, discussion, and enjoyment, whether through poetry, fiction, or reflective texts, and could foster memories, laughter, and meaningful social interaction.

The Cathaoirleach acknowledged the strong collaboration behind the programme and praised

Shanelle Waring and the Clare Age Friendly Programme for their leadership and continued commitment to supporting older people across the county. He also thanked Clare Older People’s Council, The Samaritans, Mental Health Ireland, and all partner organisations for their time, expertise, and enthusiasm. He welcomed the involvement of authors Lauretta O’Dea and Roisin Meaney, along with other speakers and advocates promoting mental wellbeing.

Cllr. Murphy highlighted that the

free, public sessions would take place every second Wednesday in the conference room of Kilkee Library from 6:00pm to 7:45pm, beginning on Wednesday, 13 May. He emphasised the role of libraries as inclusive community hubs and encouraged people of all backgrounds to take part.

He concluded by wishing the programme every success and expressing hope that it would continue to grow and flourish in Kilkee and beyond.

Community Engagement Events

On Tuesday, 21st April 2026, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager Shanelle Waring met with the Harmony Ladies Group to deliver an informative presentation on Ageing in Place, available home adaptation grants, and the key priorities of the Clare Age Friendly County Strategy 2024–2030.

During the session, Shanelle discussed how the strategy is designed to support older people to live independently in their own homes and communities for as long as possible.

She outlined initiatives that promote safety, accessibility, and social inclusion, alongside the practical supports available to help older adults plan positively for later life.

The presentation also created an opportunity for open discussion, with members sharing their experiences and raising questions about local issues affecting older people. This engagement reflects the Clare Age Friendly Programme’s ongoing commitment to listening to older people and ensuring their voices inform the implementation and delivery of the Age Friendly Strategy across the county.

14

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon News

TikTok ‘Crime Gang’ cost Clare GAA club of All-Ireland winning manager a massive €47,380

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

The Co. Clare GAA club of All-Ireland winning hurling player and manager, Brian Lohan suffered cumulative losses of €47,380 arising from a burglary committed by three Limerick men in July 2024, a court has heard.

At a sentencing hearing of the three concerning 105 separate guilty pleas before Ennis Circuit Court, Det Garda Aoife O’Malley said that the costs of the burglary of Wolfe Tones GAA club in Shannon from July 9th 2024 totals €47,380.

In the case, Eddie Carey (31), Owen Casey (28) and Tyreke Casey Curtin (25) carried out the Wolfe Tones burglary, one of seven burglaries the three pleaded guilty to on July 9th 2024.

The other burglaries took place at Oran Tan, Castle Street, Oranmore; Gala Chinese, Castle Street, Oranmore; Hair Symphony, Clarinbridge; News and Views Bridge St, Gort, Daybreak, Crusheen and Poppy Seed Café, Clarinbridge.

In evidence, Det Garda O’Malley said that during

the 2.18am Wolfe Tones burglary significant damage was caused by the removal of the club safe which resulted in €16,000 damage to the bar counter at the club.

Det O’Malley said that the club safe cost €7,000 to replace and she said that the safe was recovered on July 15th from Croom and was completely burned out.

She continued that €12,380 in cash was removed from the safe while the cost of the temporary closure of the clubhouse for a number of days was put at €12,000.

Det O’Malley said that lLOSS: Wolfe Tones na Eoin Casey lost the tip of a Sionna GAA suffered damage baby finger as the burglars placed the stolen safe into retrieve DNA evidence of the back of their vehicle at Mr Casey from the scene.

Twelve separate victim the main entrance to the impact statements were read clubhouse.

She said that Mr Casey’s out to the court by counblood spilled onto the steps sel for the State, Sarah Jane outside the main entrance Comerford BL (instructed of the club and in an effort by State Solicitor for Clare, to get rid of any DNA evi- Aisling Casey) arising from dence Eddie Carey poured the trio’s crime spree at lofuel onto the steps and then cations in Galway, Clare and Limerick starting in October set it alight.

CCTV footage of Mr Car- 2023 to January 2025.

In the victim impact stateey setting the fuel on fire was played to the court and Det ment provided by Wolfe O’Malley said that despite Tones, club Cathaoirleach, the fire, Gardai were able to Gearóid de Buitléir along

with Amanda ni hÓgáin and Jake Ó Breasláin stated that the “clubhouse and bar facility that was targeted is a vital source of income for the club”.

They said that “to arrive and witness the scale of damage caused has left a lasting sense of shock, anger and upset amongst those individuals and across the wider club community.”

They said that the club has been forced to put in place a professional security response service and “this represents an ongoing and indefinite cost that did not previously exist. These are funds that would otherwise have been invested in our underage teams and community initiative”.

They state that “in real terms, this incident has diverted resources away from young people in our community - away from coaching, equipment and development - and into covering costs arising from criminal damage.”

They state that Wolfe Tones na Sionna GAA Club “is a source of pride in Shannon…this incident has caused genuine distress

among members, families and supporters”.

Ms Comerford said that the three accused were involved in theft, unauthorised taking, residential burglaries and commercial burglaries and handling of vehicles from October 2023 to January 6th 2025.

Det Garda O’Malley said that during the period of offending, Mr Carey asked a family member to set up a public TikTok account called ‘Munster Crime Gang’ where images and videos of stolen vehicles were uploaded to.

In the case, Tyreke Casey Curtin (25) of Caisleán na hAbhann, Castletroy, Limerick has pleaded guilty to 23 offences which is in addition to the combined 82 guilty pleas entered into by Mr Carey and Owen Casey.

Mr Carey (31) of De Vere Court, John Carew Park, Limerick has pleaded guilty to 42 offences and Owen Casey (28) of Salvia Court, Keyes Park, Southill, Limerick has pleaded guilty to 40 offences.

All three have been on remand in custody for sentencing at a later date.

Author to discuss Pilgrim routes

Author of several books on pilgrimage, Rosemary Power will give a presentation in Shannon Library entitled ‘Our Ancestors’ Pilgrim Routes and Modern Pilgrimage’ on Thursday 21st May at 6.30pm.

She will talk about the pilgrim routes our ancestors would have undertaken as well examining the modern interest in pilgrimage, whether the well-worn path to Compostela, or routes nearer home.

This is a free event, and all are welcome. For further information contact Shannon Library on 061 364266.

Shannon Library Film Club meets once a month. The next movie screening is Tuesday, 19 May 2026 at 6pm and is part of our Bealtaine events at the library this May. For details on the movie selection, please contact 061-364266. All are welcome.

Cork man who damaged US jet at Shannon airport secures High Court bail

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A Cork man charged with causing criminal damage to a US military plane at Shannon airport last month has secured High Court bail, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court, Sgt John Burke said that since Dáithi Ó Corráin, (47), Blarney Street, Cork City last appeared in the district court, when he appeared via video-link from prison, he has secured High Court bail.

Mr Ó Corráin first appeared before the district

court in connection with the incident at Shannon airport on April 11th at Limerick District Court on April 13th where he was refused bail and remanded in custody after Garda objections.

Sgt Burke told Judge Adrian Harris that he would be seeking a long adjournment in the case “as it is a complex investigation and arises from the alleged criminal damage of a US military plane at Shannon airport”.

In the case, Mr Ó Corráin is charged with on April 11th the criminal dam-

lDAMAGE DONE: US military plane at Shannon airport was damaged

age of Hercules C130 Aircraft ‘St Joseph’, belonging to Missouri National Air Guard, Dept. of the Airforce, United States of America, contrary to Section 2(1) Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

Mr Ó Corráin is also charged with

the criminal damage of the perimeter fence at Shannon airport on the same date which is also contrary to Section 2(1) Criminal Damage Act, 1991.

Mr Ó Corráin is facing a third charge on the same date where he is

accused of entering Taxiway 11 at Shannon Airport, Shannon, Co Clare as a trespasser in circumstances giving rise to a reasonable inference that such entry/presence was with intent to commit an offence or to unlawfully interfere with any property situate therein.

Shannon Airport suspended all of its operations for under half an hour on the morning in question, which resulted in slight delays to two departing flights.

Shannon Gardai, Shannon Airport police, Shannon

Airport Fire and Rescue, as well as Irish Defence Forces personnel who were on duty at the airport at the time, responded to the alleged criminal damage of the US military plane.

Sgt Burke said that as it was a complex investigation he was seeking an adjournment to July 1st. Solicitor for Mr O’Corráin, Stiofán Fitzpatrick said that the application to adjourn the case until July 1st is on consent and Judge Harris further remanded Mr O’Corráin on bail to that date.

lREPRESENTING: Billy Kelleher MEP with Tomas Queally & students from St. Caimin’s

Caimin's meet MEP in EU think-tank St. Caimin’s Transition Year students were among over 80 students from counties Limerick, Clare and Kerry in the South Court Hotel, Limerick City on Tuesday, May 5th.

MEP Billy Kelleher commented on how the students “debated and discussed the issues they care about, and

the issues they want the European Union to focus on.”

“It’s clear our young people are worried about the impact of social media and generative AI on their well-being. They also care passionately about sustainability and the environment.”

15

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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Regional News

From Doolin to Dance World Cup Broadway Dancers set for Dublin

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

COUNTY Clare and to a greater degree, Doolin, is a community historically synonymous with traditional music. However thanks to a group of young dancers from across Clare and Galway, a different kind of disciplined artistry is taking hold.

Broadway Dance, an American-style dance school in Doolin founded by Boston native Liz Shannon, has seen 17 of its students qualify to represent the country at the Dance World Cup in Dublin this summer.

The achievement is the result of a grueling selection process. Out of hundreds of applications nationwide, judges selected only five pieces per category to form Team Ireland.

Broadway Dance secured 14 of those spots in total across various genres, including jazz, lyrical, contemporary, and hip hop.

For a rural school to compete at this level is significant. The 17 dancers, ranging in age from 12 to 18, will face competitors from 54 countries from July 8-18 this summer.

"You have to go through a pretty grueling audition process," Shannon told The Clare Echo, noting that after sending routines for the video selection element, her dancers then went to Dublin for another phase before qualifying for the DWC. “They selected five for each genre. I’m just so happy for them. You see them work so hard, and dance is hard."

The transition from recreational dance to the world stage requires a level of dedication that Shannon likens to elite athletics. Her competitive students average 15 to 20 hours of training per week, often remaining on the floor for four-hour sessions without significant breaks.

"It’s a real, athletic thing to do," Shannon says. "The way we do it, they’re really moving to build flexibility and poise. With the groups, there is so much precision needed. They have to do everything together, and everything at the exact same time. Every finger needs to be in the exact same place. Every level needs to be the same height."

This technical standard takes years to cultivate. Shannon notes that students must develop specific muscle groups to execute jumps and body shapes correctly, a process requiring "years of training and a lot of time."

The school is currently celebrating its 20th anniversary, a milestone that highlights the cultural shift Shannon has overseen in North Clare. When she first opened the school, the concept of American-style competitive dance was foreign to the local community.

"I remember telling my mom, ‘Someone came in, in a leotard, but then they had on wellies,’" Shannon laughs. "They didn’t understand some of it because it’s so part of the culture in America. Now, fast-forward 20 years,

l TAKING ON THE WORLD: Students from Broadway Dance in Doolin, ranging in age from 12-18, are preparing to compete in the Dance World Cup in Dublin this summer; (Front L-R): Casey Tuohy, Cass Collins, Síofra Lordan, Séamie Dalton, Mia Noone, Farah Linnane, Ríona O’Dwyer; (Middle L-R): Liz Shannon, Ciara McDonnell, Niamh MacNamara, Marcella Mantoan, Kate Fahy, Orlaith Franklin, Éabha Colgan; (Top L-R): Kayleigh O’Meara, Doireann Daly, Lucy O’Loughlin

Photo by Tom Micks

and for them to be so good is so exciting."

The school is now ingrained in the community and has even entered a self-sustaining cycle. Former student Fia McCabe, who trained and performed professionally in London, returned to Doolin this year to join the staff. Her choreography is responsible for much of the work heading to the World Cup. "It’s a real full-circle moment," says Shannon. "She danced as a professional in London and just moved home to teach for Broadway Dance. It’s her choreography, so it’s just so nice for all of them. I'm just so proud." Others involved include choreographer Ellen Carey from Liscannor, and teachers Marykate

O’Dwyer (Doolin) and Ciara Loughman (New Quay).

FUNDRAISING To represent Ireland in the DWC, the expenses for attending for ten days, entry fees and uniforms will bring costs close to €10,000. Liz notes that the dancers are trying to fundraise to help with the costs.

“We are doing two main fundraisers.

We have a draw in which we are selling €5 lines for chances to win hotel breaks, dinner vouchers and other prizes. The draw will take place on June 4 and lines can be purchased from a team member or by contacting 0872615809.”

“Our team members will also be running smaller events such as a kid’s game night, pub quizzes and bake sales.”

Broadway Dance will celebrate 20 years with special shows at glór Theatre in Ennis on May 26 / 27 at 7pm. For more information visit their Instagram: Broadway Dance Ireland.

The group also has a GoFundMe page and if you would like to donate, scan the QR code to the right.

16

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Ennis

‘This can make the town’ - refreshed plans for Cloister building

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

REVISED plans have been submitted by Clare County Council for future development of The Cloister.

Last September, the Council was allocated €6.9m as part THRIVE Town Centre First Heritage Revival Scheme to transform The Cloister into a multi-use community space.

Funding was sanctioned for the local authority from the Southern Regional Assembly via the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Plans have been revised with the Council submitting a new Part VIII application on Friday. The proposal in-

l The Cloister building in Ennis

cludes a new entrance and arrivals courtyard, visitor reception, and an exhibition and orientation hall at ground floor level, supporting the planned visitor experience linking to Ennis

Friary and improving accessibility within the building. At first floor level, the plans provide for office accommodation alongside exhibition and community rooms to support education

Photo by Tom Micks

and wider community use.

Detailed design is expected to commence for the project in the third quarter of this year with the start of construction marked for the second

quarter of 2027.

Acting senior executive officer for tourism, festivals and events with Clare County Council, Theresa Hughes Lannon explained that the previous planning application provided for a change of use from a bar and restaurant. “The revised proposal is designed to enhance tourism in the town by providing a dedicated visitor experience”.

She confirmed full consultation for the project runs until June 22 with an open information evening taking place on Tuesday (May 19) from 16:00 to 18:00 in the Buttermarket building, Drumbiggle.

Tomás Prendeville, acting senior executive architect with the Coun-

cil briefed elected members of the Ennis Municipal District on Tuesday.

He described the Cloister as “a very important part of Ennis and it is seen as a gateway to Ennis, a very important heritage building, a protected structure and it bookends Abbey Street, perhaps most important is that it is located next to the Friary”.

He said the aspiration of the new plans will connect the Cloister with the outbuildings in the vicinity including the Friary. The aim is to create “a tourism attractor” with a visitor experience based on the Friary.

The intention for the first floor is to have offices, education and community rooms serving “a

wide range of functions” including hosting community meetings, fitness classes, youth clubs, dance classes, rehearsals, professional training and seminars. The second floor is for WCs and storage, he confirmed.

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) described it as “an exciting project, it will be a huge tourism project. It is sad to see another pub going in the town but to balance it out, it will be a good tourism project”.

Council officials were praised for listening by Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF). Boosting tourism numbers in Ennis is essential, he stated. “The economic activity is the driver, everything costs money, this is a way of creating capacity”.

€3,000 raised by Fitzgeralds

l PUTTING IN THE WORK: Diarmuid McMahon, President, Ennis Chamber and Michael Henchy, General Manager of Campion Insurance get ready for the golf classic on May 22

Chamber tees up Golf Classic l GREAT CAUSE: Dan O’Connor of Clare Suicide Bereavement Support gratefully receiving the sum of €3001.60 from Oran Fitzgerald alongside other members of the Fitzgerald family (L-R),Patricia Fitzgerald, Liam Fitzgerald,and Michael Fitzgerald

ENNIS Chamber’s annual Golf Classic, a long-established event in the Ennis Golfing calendar, will tee off on Friday, May 22, at Ennis Golf Club, with Campion Insurance once more the event’s overall sponsor.

This sociable event attracts teams from within Ennis Chamber membership as well as non-member businesses, all keen to network, to enjoy a day on the fairways and to take their chance at winning some fabulous prizes, including a 4-ball at Dromoland Castle Golf Club, a 4-ball TIGL or 4 x €100 vouchers for Doolin Ferry company. There will also be individual prizes for longest drive and closest to the pin.

Ennis Chamber President Diarmuid McMahon said, “Ennis Chamber Golf Classic is always a pleasant, relaxing, and sociable occasion. Whether you want to treat members of your hard-working team or enjoy the company of clients, we look forward to welcoming you on Friday, May 22nd. I also wish to thank Campion Insurance, the overall sponsor of our annual Golf Classic, for the second year. As one of the largest employers in Ennis town centre we welcome and value the support of Michael Henchy and his team at Campion Insurance.”

To book a team or to sponsor a tee/green Email: info@ennischamber.ie

17

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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Regional

Cullaun Sailing Club hosts Munster championship event Doonbeg Jazz Festival returns The 27th Doonbeg International Jazz Festival will take place over the June Weekend, 29th May - 1st June.

There will be an full programme of free events over the weekend with 11 excellent bands playing a total of 29 performances, both daytime and evening as well as an extra event of Swing Dance Classes, which will take place on Saturday 30th May, starting at 2.30pm at the community hall.

There will be a wide selection of musical styles, from Swing to Dixieland, Latin to American Songbook,Ragtime to Soul,Cajun to Jump Jive, and will feature performers and bands from Brazil, Venezuela, Italy, Nicaragua, Scotland, USA, France, Germany, Netherlands, England and Ireland.

The Doonbeg International Jazz Festival is accessible to all, with daytime and outside Free performances, making it family friendly, as well as evening performances.

Swing Dance Classes at the Community Hall will start at 2.30pm and have an entrance fee of 5 euro per person.

ALL MUSIC FREE OF CHARGE. www.facebook.com/doonbeginternationaljazzfestival

VISITORS from across Ireland travelled to Cullaun Sailing Club over the weekend as the club hosted the GP14 Munster Championship 2026 on Saturday and Sunday, May 9th and 10th.

Clear blue skies and a fresh breeze provided ideal sailing conditions for the 22-boat dinghy fleet, delivering two days of spectacular and highly competitive racing on the waters of east Clare.

The regatta proved to be a major success for the small but dedicated club, with all members playing their part in organising the championship and extending

a warm welcome to visiting competitors.

Race organisers praised the high standard of competition and sportsmanship shown throughout the weekend, while competitors enjoyed challenging conditions that tested both skill and teamwork.

Speaking after the event, Commodore Jim O’Sullivan thanked all volunteers, race officials, sponsors, and complemented the visiting sailors who made the championship such a memorable occasion.

Overall Race Winners were father and son Keith and Mateo Louden from Lough Foyle Yacht Club

who dominated from the start and won 1st place with 5 1st place wins out of 6 races.

The successful hosting of the GP14 Munster Championship marks another important milestone for Cullaun Sailing Club and highlights the growing reputation of the club as a venue for competitive sailing events in the region. Adult Classes start there next week and a full summer camp schedule for children aged 10 to 17 is available for June full details available on thier website. www.cullaunsailingclub.com

glór hosts Reincarnation of Cornelius Agrippa 1519. The city of Metz in France. The notorious Cornelius Agrippa achieves the impossible in court: defending a woman accused of witchcraft against the Inquisition and securing her acquittal.

The only recorded instance of its kind in history. Soldier, scholar, doctor and rumoured sorcerer, his name echoed around Europe. But the hatred of the Roman Church would also follow…

Now, over 500 years later, he has returned. To de-

fend the condemned again.

The play, touring Ireland since late 2024, unfolds across two gripping acts. Told from the present day, the story blurs past and present, with the audience themselves drawn into the mystery of why Agrippa has returned.

Tickets €16 (€15 Euro concession) plus €1 booking fee. Available from glór (065) 6843103 or www.glor.ie.

Journey through History at

Scattery Island Myths and Legends Centuries of History Biodiversity and Wildlife

heritageireland.ie

l Director of Education and Community Action with An Taisce, Cathy Baxter; Head of Public Relations, EirGrid, Suzanne Collins; with students from St Joseph’s Community College, Kilkee

Energy award for Kilkee students

STUDENTS from St Joseph’s Community College, Kilkee were awarded the title of Northern and Western Regional Energy School of the Year at the An Taisce Green Schools’ Energy Awards this week.

Students from across Ireland taking part in the Green Schools’ Energy Theme gathered with their teachers at the award ceremony, where they were presented with the Green

Flag, recognising their outstanding work on the theme.

The Energy Theme, sponsored by EirGrid, operator and developer of Ireland’s electricity grid, enables students to expand their awareness around energy conservation.

The students from St Joseph’s Community College were among 10 schools who scooped awards at the ceremony, with their work during the Energy

Theme including holding swap shops, introducing water refill stations, and running campaigns to encourage cycling.

So far this academic year, more than 3,700 students have engaged in the theme, including events such as regional workshops, which allowed them to learn more about where electricity comes from and how they can take steps to reduce energy consumption.

Explore the Extraordinary

To plan your trip to Scattery Island visit heritageireland.ie or scan the QR code

18

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Gort & South Galway

Ballinasloe ‘Celtic healer’ to learn fate for sexual assault on 16-year-old girl

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

GALWAY farmer and self styled Celtic Healer and Fairy Whisperer, Patrick Noone (59) will learn his court fate for the sexual assault of a 16-year girl on board a transatlantic Aer Lingus flight in July.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford has listed Mr Noone’s sentencing date for July 29th.

Judge Comerford confirmed that a Probation Report on Mr Noone has been completed and handed into court.

In February, Mr Noone of Curragh, Kilconnell, Ballinasloe, Co Galway pleaded guilty to the sexual assault of a then 16-year old girl on board a transatlantic Aer Lingus flight bound for Boston on November 15th 2023.

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

In court in February, counsel

l The sexual assault took place on an Aer Lingus flight

for Mr Noone, Antoinette Simon BL asked for a Probation Report on her client for the sentencing hearing, as she said, it may provide insight into his offending.

Counsel for the State, Ms Sarah Jane Comerford (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) told the court previously that the State has the victim impact statement from the complainant who has now turned 18.

Ms Comerford said that the complainant was aged 16 at the time of the offences “so there is some degree of priority”.

Mr Noone was excused from attending court but was present to hear that the sentencing is to proceed on July 29th.

In the case, Mr Noone pleaded guilty in February when arraigned on two counts of sexual assault contrary to Section 2 of the Crim-

Cathaoirleach’s Ball proceeds to go towards two important causes

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

PROCEEDS from this year’s Cathaoirleach’s Ball will go towards the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland.

Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins (FG) has confirmed details of this year’s Cathaoirleach’s Ball, which will take place on Sunday, 31st May at the Raheen Woods Hotel in Athenry.

This year’s proceeds from the annual gala event will be split between the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland. The National Breast Cancer Research Institute funds a research programme at

the University of Galway focused on improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Currently, 1 in 7 Irish women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, with more than 3,500 cases identified each year.

Epilepsy Ireland, es-

tablished in 1966, supports people living with epilepsy and their families through community-based services, education and advocacy.

Cllr Collins said, “I want to acknowledge the public and business community who

inal Law (Rape) Amendment Act on November 15th 2023.

Mr Noone has also pleaded guilty to sexual assault of the girl by rubbing and grabbing her buttocks on board the E1 135 Aer Lingus flight within the jurisdiction of the Irish State.

Mr Noone - who has no previous convictions - also pleaded guilty to the sexual assault of the girl by kissing her arm and rubbing her thigh on the flight.

Mr Noone is well-known in the spiritual and healing world, described on his website as “a renowned Celtic healer”.

Ms Comerford previously told Judge Comerford that there is no connection between Mr Noone and the injured party.

Ms Comerford told the court in February that the guilty plea was of some assistance as arrangements had been made for the US based witnesses to provide their evidence via video-link for the trial.

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

Ms Comerford said that the complainant is currently studying

have always generously supported this annual event, which has raised much-needed funds for charities over the years.

I hope the funds raised this year will contribute to the ongoing work of the National Breast Cancer Research Institute and Epilepsy Ireland at local, national and international levels”.

Music on the night will be provided by Weightless Astronauts, with Galway Bay FM broadcaster Ronan Lardner acting as MC. Tickets are available through Corporate Services at Galway County Council, Prospect Hill.

Those interested can contact 091 509316 or email secretary@galwaycoco.ie.

in a US college.

When the case was before the district court, Judge Alec Gabbett transferred the case to the circuit court where more serious penalties apply on conviction after hearing an outline of the case against Mr Noone.

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

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

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

She said that the young girl and her family returned to Shannon airport where statements were obtained in the short turnaround before they took off again for the US. Judge Comerford further remanded Mr Noone on continuing bail to July 29th at Ennis Circuit Court for sentence.

Sloat exhibition set for Cash Shop in Gort

by Amy Copley news@clareecho.ie

TAIWANESE-American artist Ben Sloat’s exhibition, A New World is Possible, I Can Hear Her Breathing will be in display on Gort this summer.

Launching this Saturday, May 16 at 1-3pm in the Cash Shop in Gort, the exhibition will run until August 8. The exhibition bridges the animist cultures of Taiwan and Ireland through use of materials which transform from raw to cultural states. Employing the respective craft traditions of these countries, Sloat proposes a new kind of syncretism of the handmade: one that blends histories, provides for coalition, and points to new possibilities for the future.

Sloat will work with two local craftspeople, Brid Kivneen for traditional straw and Angela Nolan for willow, in the production of his installation

in Gort. Through this collaboration, these organic materials and traditional craft are elevated from their raw states into hybrid contemporary cultural artefacts, giving both a personal voice and a broader societal perspective.

From New York, Sloat’s work has been shown in venues such as the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston), and Dublin City Gallery, to name a few.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 7, 2026

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Columnists

19

Tennis club fundriaser a smash hit for Cahercalla ENNIS Tennis Club have presented Cahercalla Community Hospice with €1,260, thanks to a fundraiser hosted at the club with funds raised matched by Ennis & Limerick Orthodontic Practice.

The inaugural North Munster Open was succesfully hosted by Ennis LTBC over the May Bank Holiday weekend, with close to 150 competitors taking part from across Ireland. As part of the event, the tourna-

ment organisers ran a ‘one-point’ slam for charity. Some 64 competitors took part in the knock-out event, with Killian Horgan running out the overall winner.

Pictured at the presentation are tournament sponsor, Dr Jeeves Kochhar, Tournament co-director Dervilla Moloney, alongside Sheryl Knowles and Kate Burke of Cahercalla Community Hospice.

Photo by Tom Micks

Thought for the week: Mary, Queen of the May Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY

A

S I write this “Thought for the Week,” I have just returned from a beautiful May walk around where I live.

At long last, the season of summer is beginning to unfold itself in full bloom. The warmth in the air, the lengthening evenings, the gentle sunlight resting on the trees and flowers, and the sweet chorus of birdsong all seemed to whisper a message of hope to my soul.

There is something deeply healing and profoundly spiritual about the month of May. It makes us feel younger somehow, more alive, more hopeful, even amidst the many worries of our modern world. Everywhere we look there are signs of renewal. Flowers blossom from bare branches. The earth comes alive again.

For me, the month of May and indeed the season of summer is symbolic of life itself, a reminder to seize the gift of today because none of us are guaranteed tomorrow. May and Summer is the fulfilment of a hopeful spring.

To make the most of summer is, in many ways, to make the most of life itself. As I walked beneath trees heavy with blossom and watched the golden evening light dance upon the earth, I found myself thanking God for the countless blessings we often overlook, the warmth of the sun on our skin, the freshness in the air, the flowing

sea, the laughter of children, birds singing without fear. These are holy gifts. Yet too often we rush past them. We spend so much time worrying about the future or carrying the wounds of the past that we fail to truly live in the sacredness of the present moment. And perhaps this is why the Church, in her wisdom, dedicates this beautiful month of May to Our Blessed Mother Mary, the Queen of the May. THE MONTH OF OUR LADY This reflection is lovingly dedicated to every person who faithfully prays the Rosary, to every soul praying quietly for peace in our troubled world, and to all those carrying heavy crosses in silence.

It is dedicated to the lonely, the grieving, the anxious, the sick, the forgotten, and those whose hearts ache beneath burdens known only to God. It is also dedicated to the mothers and fathers praying for their children, the elderly praying quietly by a bedside or window, the weary souls who still cling to faith despite suffering, and every person who continues to believe that prayer can still change hearts and heal a wounded world.

Many cry behind closed doors where nobody sees their tears. Yet in the midst of all this darkness, the gentle light of Mary continues to shine. The month of May has long been associated with devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary because May itself reflects something of Mary’s beauty. It is the season of blossoming, new life, gentleness, and renewal. Just as creation awakens after winter,

Mary reminds us that grace can bloom again even after seasons of sorrow. The Church calls her the “Queen of Heaven” and the “Queen of the May,” not because she sought greatness, but because she surrendered herself completely to God. MARY – MOTHER OF SORROWS AND MOTHER OF HOPE Mary’s life was not easy. So often we picture her surrounded only by peace and light, yet her journey was marked by both immense joy and profound sorrow. She gave birth to Jesus in poverty. She fled as a refugee into Egypt to save His life. She lost Him in Jerusalem and searched anxiously for three days.

She watched Him misunderstood, rejected, mocked, scourged, and crucified. And yet she never abandoned Him. Even at Calvary, while others fled, Mary remained standing beneath the Cross. Imagine the heartbreak of a mother watching her innocent Son suffer.

Mary understands suffering because she lived it. She understands grief because she carried it. Perhaps that is why so many people instinctively turn to Mary in times of pain. A mother listens differently. A mother notices the silent tears that others overlook. A mother stays close when the world walks away.

LEARNING TO LIVE IN THE PRESENT MOMENT One of the greatest spiritual battles of our age is learning to truly live in the present moment. Too often we dwell in the wounds of yesterday or fear the uncertainties of tomorrow. We replay old regrets

and imagine future disasters while missing the sacredness of today.

Yet the present moment is where God waits for us. Look at nature.

Flowers do not worry about tomorrow. Birds sing without fear of the future. The sea continues to rise and fall in quiet obedience to God. Creation lives in trust. And perhaps we are being called to do the same. This summer, I invite you to slow down. Notice the beauty around you. Feel the warmth of the sun. Listen to birdsong. Smell the flowers. Sit quietly with someone you love. Put down the phone.

Turn off the noise. Pray. Laugh.

Visit someone lonely. Forgive someone. Tell people you love them while you still can. Life is fragile. One day the flowers of May will fade again. Summer will pass.

Seasons will change. Loved ones will leave us. Our own earthly journey will one day end. But love, true love is eternal. And so we must never take anyone or anything for granted.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK As your thought for the week and during this month of May, I invite you to create a small “May altar” if you already haven’t done so somewhere in your home with a candle, flowers, or an image of Our Lady. Spend at least thirty minutes each day in silence and prayer. Put away your phone, your worries, and the noise of the world.

Pray the Rosary if you can. Read a passage from the Gospel slowly.

Ask Mary to help you remove one “weed” from your soul, perhaps anger, negativity, impatience, resentment, fear, or bitterness and ask her to plant instead a flower of virtue. Then choose one act of compassionate love this week for someone who may be struggling.

Visit someone lonely. Reconcile with someone. Help a neighbour.

Encourage a hurting soul. Become the answer to someone else’s prayer. And tonight, before you sleep, pray one Hail Mary for peace in our world and for all those who feel forgotten, abandoned, frightened, or unloved. Let your faith become visible through love.

20

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

News

For a nation of great talkers, how do we really ask and really listen?

MENTAL Health Ireland today announces the return of Hello, How Are You? Day on the 15th of May 2026, a national campaign encouraging people across Ireland to start meaningful conversations about mental health.

The event is celebrating its 5th year in operation. The campaign is continuing to grow each year as a powerful reminder of the importance of connection, helping to tackle loneliness, build a sense of belonging, and encourage early help-seeking through awareness and signposting to mental health supports.

Mental Health Ireland are inviting everyone across the country and beyond to take a moment to say hello and really check in with the people around them.

Cillian Keane, Development Officer for Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary with Mental Health Ireland, speaks to the Clare Echo about the importance of this campaign. “We had 291 events last year, across

26 counties, and then we would have our “Hello, How Are You” training sessions that people could attend to learn more about the

campaign and how they can get involved in hosting an event in their community or workplace”.

“It’s improving awareness and understanding of mental health, and its growing

people’s confidence in holding a mental health conversation.”

On board with the team this year is TikTok star and Ireland AM presenter, Eric Roberts. Roberts amasses over 780k followers on TikTok and aims to use his platform to highlight the importance of genuine connection and simply asking and really listening to the question, “Hello, how are you?”

Cillian and the team are delighted to have Eric on board to get their message across to his followers. “It’s brilliant, to be honest. Eric is going to do promotion on his social media to help spread the word about the campaign and it’s going to be a massive boost to raise awareness and highlight all the important work we do at Mental Health Ireland”.

Eric commented on his affiliation with the campaign, “I’m absolutely delighted to be an ambassador for Mental Health Ireland and to support the Hello, How Are You? campaign this May 15th.

Rosemary Ryan - Area Lead for Mental Health Engagement - HSE Mid West Mental Health Services, Dave Barry – Community Support Worker - HSE Mid West Mental Health Services, Fionnuala Killoury - Assistant Director of Nursing - HSE Mid West Mental Health Services, Conor Clune – Multi Task Attendant - HSE Mid West Mental Health Services and Cillian Keane - Development Officer - Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary - Mental Health Ireland

It’s such a simple question ‘hello, how are you?’ but it carries incredible power.

Taking a moment to check in with someone can make a real difference, letting them know they’re seen, heard, and not alone. I’m proud to be part of a campaign that encourages all of us to connect, to listen, and to look out for one another.”

Mental Health Ireland urges everyone to follow the Hello Steps when innating a conversation about mental health: • H: Say Hello • E: Engage with the person • L: Listen to them • L: Learn about them and what they might be saying • O: Give them time to talk and to explore options To mark the campaign, Mental Health Ireland has partnered with Hairy Baby to launch a limited-edition Hello, How Are You? T-shirt as Gaeilge, with all profits supporting Mental Health Ireland’s work. Designed to spark conversations, the T-shirt offers a simple, visible way for people to show their support and get involved.

Claire Flynn, National Campaign Lead, said: “Since the first national campaign in 2022, the impact of Hello, How Are You? continues to grow. Each year we’re seeing more meaningful conversations and stronger social connections being made across Ireland. We are continuing to develop free resources, training and partnerships to expand the reach of the campaign and

support communities in connecting in creative and impactful ways.”

“On May 15th, we’re looking forward to seeing all the different ways the nation says Hello, How Are You? —

whether it’s hosting an event or simply putting the kettle on and sitting down with someone. It all starts with a simple question: ‘How are you?’”

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

GREEN CLARE

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Abandonded energy project costs €50m before halt, with Tommy Tiernan among 177 objections

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THE renewable energy firm behind the abandoned €1.4bn ‘landmark’ offshore wind farm off the Clare and Galway coastline opposed by comedian, Tommy Tiernan and others spent €50m on project costs before the scheme was halted last year.

That is according to new accounts filed by the Corio Generation backed Fuinneamh Sceirde Teoranta (FST) which show that accumulated losses at the company totalled €56m at the end of March 2025.

The accounts show that the firm incurred €18.32m in project costs in the 12 months to the

end of March 2025 and this is in addition to the company already spending €31.7m on project costs across 2024 and 2023.

The directors state the project ceased in April 2025 “following a review of market conditions and project specific constraints”.

A note states that the company has determined that the appropriate strategic outcome is to limit ongoing liabilities while considering the options of either the sale or abandonment of the project as it is no longer feasible to progress development.

The directors state that shareholder funding will be available to enable the company to meet its obligations

OBJECTIONS: Tommy Tiernan among those objecting to offshore wind farm

during an orderly winddown of activities.

It states that the company does not have any committed funding in place.

The directors state that in light of the circumstances outlined, the financial statements should not be prepared on a going concern basis.

TV chat-show host

and standup comedian, Tommy Tiernan was one of 177 third parties to lodge submissions with An Coimiúsin Pleanála (ACP) on the contentious plan to construct the 450 MW wind-farm with 30 turbines over 1,000 ft high in the Atlantic Ocean.

In his objection to the Sceirde Rock proposal, Tommy Tiernan told

ACP: “I’m objecting to the proposed off-shore wind farm near Carna, Connemara, County Galway on the grounds of desecration of that area of natural beauty.”

The actor, comedian and podcaster said: “Culture is judged on how it protects areas and ideals such as this.

Allowing such a project to go ahead when there are many more suitable sites either much further off-shore or inland would be a totally irresponsible and disgusting thing to do.”

He said: “There has to be more to our country than a utilitarian exploitation of where we live.”

The decision to halt the project in April 2025 came only three months

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after FST lodged plans with ACP to construct its Sceirde Rocks windfarm on waters located 5km to 11.5m km off the west coast with Carna in Galway the nearest settlement.

The wind farm was to have the capacity to power 350,000 homes.

Separate accounts lodged by FST’s UK based parent, Inis Top Company Ltd show that it impaired in full its €12.69m investment in FST following the decision in April 2025 to not proceed with the Sceirde Rocks off-shore wind farm “due to challenges in the offshore wind market”.

Inis Top Company Ltd’s accumulated losses totalled €70.39m at the end of March 2025.

Three Galway businessmen, who were among seven individual and corporate investors in FST, are suing joint venture firm, Inis Holding Co Ltd, indirectly owned by Corio Generation Ltd, which is a company within the Macquarie Group, and the Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan Board, over a share purchase agreement related to the project.

The new FST accounts - signed off on April 27th - do not make reference to the High Court action being taken by Seosamh Ó Laoi, of Baile an tSagairt, Spiddal; Padraig Ó Laoi, a publican of Ballinahill, Lettermullan; and Bartley Lee, of Seacrest, Cnoc Na Caltrach.

22

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Business & Recruitment

Clare students win big at National enterprise awards

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

STUDENTS from Clare have taken Best Sales & Marketing prize in the senior category at this year’s Student Enterprise Programme National Finals.

The Finals of the Local Enterprise Office initiative took place last Thursday in Mullingar.

Supported by Local Enterprise Office Clare, the students from St Flannan’s College won Best Sales & Marketing in the senior category.

The winning students were Jack Hayes, Sean Daly and Ultan Breslin, who worked under the guidance of their teachers, Mr O’Connor and Ms Wynne.

Their student enterprise was called: ‘JSU Marketing’. This driven team of young entrepreneurs demonstrated outstanding creativity, technical expertise, and a strong understanding of modern digital marketing. As the next generation of marketers,

l St Flannan’s students Jack Hayes, Sean Daly and Ultan Breslin collect their award alongside Mr O’Connor and Ms Wynne

they aim to help small businesses compete online by delivering affordable, high quality digital solutions.

The event was hosted by broadcasters Rick O’Shea and Ruth Scott, and they were joined during the ceremony by Alan Dillon, T.D., Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail to announce the winners across the three main categories on the day.

Alan Dillon, T.D., Minister of State for Em-

ployment, Small Business and Retail, said; “This is one for the great days for Irish entrepreneurship in the country. We get a chance to see almost 90 businesses started by secondary school students from across the country who have all been shortlisted for the finals and that in itself is an amazing achievement from the 30,000 pupils who started last September.

“These are students who have come up with brilliant ideas and

forged them into businesses, making sales and understanding and learning the skills it takes to become an entrepreneur. No matter what path they choose in life those skills will stand by them but we hope that many of the students we see today will go on to become the start-up leaders and entrepreneurs of the future in this country.”

There were 88 student businesses in contention across three main categories for the Final in what is Ireland’s largest entrepreneurship programme for second level students.

The Student Enterprise Programme is open to students of all ages at secondary level, with three separate categories - Junior (1st year), Intermediate (2nd and 3rd year) and Senior (4th, 5th and 6th year, LVA, LCA and Youth Outreach).

New addition to board of Shannon Airport Group FOUNDER of property advisory firm, Knight Frank Ireland, Adrian Trueick has been appointed to the board of the Shannon Airport Group.

A chartered surveyor, Adrian was appointed to the board by Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien (FF). He is the first new addition to the board since Ray O’Driscoll was named as the new CEO of the Shannon Airport Group.

It is the fourth new appointment to the Board in less than a year following on from Emily Ross and Mary Halton in June 2025 along with Ken Johnson in November.

One of the four founders behind Knight Frank Ireland in 2004 which was then known as HR Meagher O’Reilly, Adrian has thirty five years experience in the Irish commercial property sector.

Chair of the Shannon Airport Group, Conal Henry stated, "I am delighted to welcome Adrian Trueick to the Board. Adrian brings with him over three decades of deep expertise in commercial property, invest-

ment, and development across the Irish market.

His experience advising both public and private sector clients, combined with his strong focus on sustainability and the retrofitting of existing

assets, will be of significant value to the Group as we continue to develop our infrastructure and support balanced regional growth.”

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.

• Retained Part-Time Firefighter Panel (Kilkee & Shannon) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 28th May 2026.

• Beach Operatives Seasonal (West Clare MD West) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 28th May 2026.

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

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

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

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

23

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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

News

Páirc Chíosóg outing for Gaelscoil kids thanks to Future Leaders SCHOOL children from across County Clare had an opportunity to take to the hallowed ground of Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg this week.

An ‘as gaeilge’ primary school blitz was hosted by TY students from Gaelcholáiste An Chláir and Ennis Community College taking part in the Future Leaders programme, with the support of the schools Future Leaders coordinator, woodwork teacher and Clare hurler Cian Galvin.

Future Leaders is a joint initiative from the GAA and Oide, the support service for teachers and school leaders, that supports students to organise and run both on-field and off-field events in their schools, clubs and communities.

The sun shone on Cusack Park on Tuesday as children from gaelscoileanna across the county took part in the hugely successful blitz, where the use of our national language was integral.

Photos by Joe Buckley

24

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Tony Griffin goes ‘full circle’ with return to Clare hurling fold

by Páraic McMahon TONY GRIFFIN has said returning to a Clare hurling setup is a case of going full circle.

An All Star in 2006, Tony is regarded as one of the leading sports performance coaches in the country and has been involved with Brian Lohan’s Clare senior hurlers since the beginning of this year.

Getting the minds ready for battle has been a big focus for Clare ahead of Saturday’s crunch championship encounter with All-Ireland champions Tipperary in Thurles.

When Tony made his championship debut for the Clare senior hurlers in the 2002 Munster SHC quarter-final 1-18 2-13 defeat to Tipperary, he scored 0-6, Lohan was captain as the Cyril Lyons side reached the All-Ireland final that season. He made his first appearance for the seniors in the NHL in 2000, a year out of the minor grade when he scored 0-2 off the bench in the opening round against Kerry and backed this up with 0-2 when starting against Galway in round two.

Returning to the Clare hurling fold in a different guise has been a real treat for the Ballyea native. “There’s nothing like it, there really isn’t. After Kerry I had no intentions of doing any more GAA teams because with the Kerry lads it was three years and I moved down there, we moved down as a family so we were in the mix because the commute was big, I remember saying to my wife I won’t work with another team and I had talks about working with teams across the water but I didn’t want to be getting on a flight on a Tuesday morning, coming back on a Friday, that wasn’t what I wanted to do. Then Brian (Lohan) rang and they already had a sports psychologist, Nollaig (O’Sullivan) which was brilliant, she does the one on ones, sometimes all I think I do is drink coffee and eat the jellies on the dressing room table but I’m just around, I feel so lucky.

Now, there are some evenings I’m in Kildare and I don’t want to drive to Clare but every time I get there I’m like this is just bonus territory”.

Clear to see from Clare’s first two championship outings in Cusack Park has been Griffin’s enthusiasm at being involved, the forty five year old fits in well with the panel in the pre-game puckaround. “I have to try tell myself to get off the field now, I just love pucking, I’m playing in Wicklow so I want to be pucking, even tonight (Friday) at training if

one of the goalies say will you come in and help a drill, I’m like a nine year old being asked to play. When I left Clare, I didn’t leave on great terms, I felt frustrated and even going to the games for a few years after was hard. In 2013 and 2014, I got really into the team, yet I still felt I could still be playing but after that I went on this journey with Kildare and Kerry which took me away but I always watched the games and always messaged Tony and Paul from Ballyea on the morning of a game and I always text Brian the morning of every game, to be back now is like full circle”.

Lohan the manager has brought the “unbeatable” traits he carried with him from his days at full back with the distinctive red helmet. “You never really got to know Brian the player but Brian the player was amazing, he was such a competitor, having marked him you knew you were going to have to be ready and find every way to get around him, he was so mentally strong, there’s a few people like Seánie O’Shea and Michael Jordan who are the elite, they are winners but they are warriors and their mindset is almost unbreakable, Brian is one of those and his team have that. Brian the manager without giving too much away because he is so private, as a manager you can see in spades is Brian cares about his players, they know he does, they love the jersey, they love the panel and they have a great atmosphere. Brian as a player was unbeatable but Brian as a manager has brought that into his squad but he also cares about his player”.

As he admitted, the commute from Kildare to Cusack Park can be taxing but Tony is hopeful it will be continuing for a few more months at least.

“We hope it will keep rolling but it won’t be from want of trying by those guys. The thing about the Brian Lohan set-up is it is not about Brian, it is not about him, he brought in Nollaig, me, he brings in people and there is no ego with Brian, it is not about Brian and that is rare, I’ve worked with other managers and they want to win because it is for them as much as the team, with Brian I honestly think he is so rooted in Clare and the Clare people, he talks about it all the time, it is not about Brian and the players know he cares about them, Brian is a sound fella”.

Tony was the guest speaker at an event organised by the John Conroy spear-headed Clare GAA health and wellbe-

Tony Griffin

ing committee at Hotel Woodstock which helped teenagers to understand how to play their best game on and off the field and proved very worthwhile for young and old in attendance.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he explained what is the role of a performance coach. “It is quite a new term in lots of ways but in most teams the role of a sports psychologist is covered within the performance coach but for some other teams it goes much further than that so you could end up liaising between the players and the management, doing work with the management on stuff like team culture, one on ones with players on counselling or therapeutic intervention due to circumstances, it is very broad. Where it works very well for some teams is when they have a sports psychologist who is very good at that and someone who is working more broadly around the culture of the sport and is there for players to turn to if they need”.

Having a psychologist with a performance is “the way to go,” he outlined. “I tried to do the one in Kerry and it is almost impossible to do it in

Photo by Ruth Griffin

the way that you’re covering a bit of everything. You’d be surprised, even some Premier League teams and teams that are high profile might not even access to a full-time sports psychologist, the way the modern game and the GAA world is going you need someone with that skillset to be able to help players play the mental game because if you think about performance as technical, tactical, physical and mental, the other three are covered well and I think the GAA is starting to get very good with the last one and is better than some professional sports because we get the fact that our players will perform better if they have some mental or mindset techniques”.

Reflecting on his playing days, Tony noted he would have benefitted hugely from working with a performance coach. “In some ways I would have loved to be playing now, I was someone who wanted and probably required input across the board physically, we see the way players are conditioned now, my body type I was always losing muscle tissue, bulk and size by June and then the season

went to September so when you needed to be at your best was when I was starting to fatigue and atrophy physically so now their load is watched, some players might want to play on but they are told they are finished and have hit their numbers for tonight, there was none of that so physically I would have been a better player. Tactically, when I was playing, you stayed in your position or thereabouts, if you went you then you were shouted at ‘get back to the wing’ whereas now the game is almost played in a flow up and down the field like ice hockey or something, I would have thrived on that because it would have suited me much more. Mentally if I had someone to work with mentally I just would have enjoyed the thing more, I would have been able to reset much better, sometimes I felt like I couldn’t make a mistake so I was afraid to make a mistake, now I work with players around that and they are so much more mentally evolved and they know they will make three or four mistakes, my man might get four points off me but he won’t get more than that whereas in my day it was different”.

In 2022, Tony was part of the Kerry backroom team as the Jack O’Connor managed Kerry outfit ended an eight-year wait for All-Ireland success. He had worked with O’Connor and the Kildare senior footballers in 2021. Griffin had previously been performance coach to the Dublin senior hurlers managed by his former teammate and manager, Anthony Daly when they ended a 72-year wait for Division 1 success in 2011 before securing an historic Leinster SHC crown two years later, their first in 52 years.

On some of the common themes he discusses with the modern-day GAA player, Tony explained, “with the GAA player some of them are around habits, they are younger whereas the demand is huge, sometimes it is just about cleaning up routines and how they prepare, that is less and less. The big one is confidence, it is the same in different sports, I’m working with a fourteen year old tennis player who will turn professional soon and will be Ireland’s first professional tennis player of this era, it is the same for him and that is confidence, what happens when I get beaten, what happens if I’m injured, it is versions of that and very often it is the confidence to play and players today with all the data can get stuck that I have to hit

all these metrics and they can forget the part of enjoying the play of the game so a lot of the issues in sport is the same as it always was and always will be, doubt of can I do this, am I this good and having to win over that battle in your mind”.

Ballyea itself is developing a niche for its array of sports performance coaches, ex Clare footballer Gary Brennan held the role currently occupied by Griffin in 2023 while two-time All-Ireland winner Paul Flanagan is in the same role but with the Clare senior footballers and he works with the majority of Clare underage sides. “Paul is a class act, when I did the walk for Palestine for my buddy working in Gaza, as I was going from Killaloe to Ballyea, Paul drove around the backroads of Quin to find me with a bar of chocolate and a flask of tea, he is just a class act. I’m more of a generalist whereas he is a brilliant sports psychologist”.

Alongside Karl Swan, Tony co-founded the Soar foundation in 2012, inspired by the late Jim Stynes in Australia, to help teenagers realise and fufill their potential. In the last fourteen years, Soar has worked with over 75,000 teenagers. “I stepped away in 2019 and I had brought it as far as I thought I could, it is still going, it is brilliant because with some people they start something and it just falls away, Soar is continuing and it is growing,” Griffin said of his current involvement.

Clare hurling is just one project keeping Tony occupied.

“My full time is I do a lot of human connection, I work with three companies in particular and do a good bit with them on the human connection of their team, with the rise of AI the one thing it can’t replace or what we need to focus on most is human connection and how people create and find a way to harness their potential. I’m about to start a new book which I’m really excited about which is for teenagers and is on mindset for teenagers into sport, it is cool because it is like full circle for me as it is like the book I’d have love to have read when I was fourteen and I wanted to do this thing but didn’t know could I, it will be that type of book for young people”.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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Changes expected to Clare team for Tipp tie

by Páraic McMahon CLARE’S senior hurlers bid to bounce back to winning ways brings them to Thurles this weekend in a game that is likely to decide who will emerge from Munster.

All-Ireland champions Tipperary are chasing a first win of the championship in what will be their third outing of the year while Clare following a fifteen point hammering to Limerick need to get back on track.

Brian Lohan and his management team are expected to make changes in the aftermath of the Limerick drubbing. Calls are strong for either John Conlon or David McInerney to enter the starting team in the heart of defence while Cathal Malone’s return to midfield is also viewed as a necessary move.

Diarmuid Stritch’s inclusion from the off would also strengthen the Clare cause with the surrounds of Semple Stadium sure to suit the pacy and energy of the Clonlara student.

A disjointed approach or one in which Limerick pulled Clare apart saw little protection given to the Banner’s backline and too much aerial ball delivered into Clare’s lively attack a fortnight ago.

Everything that went wrong for Clare against Limerick in Cusack Park is fixable but there will have had to have been a strong focus on strengthening the defensive structure of the side which has conceded six goals in two games. The manner in which Clare’s defence was left completely open for Barry Nash to cut through the middle when assisting Aidan O’Connor’s goal for Limerick is sure to have been reviewed and discussed among internal video analysis sessions.

Semple Stadium is a venue that often brings the best out of this Lohan managed Clare side.

They will have no fear of taking on Tipperary in their own backyard and have beaten The Premier County in their last three championship clashes in Thurles. This run stretches back to 2018 when

Ian Galvin goaled off the bench to dump Tipperary out of the championship as Clare prevailed 1-23 1-21.

Lohan’s first clash with Tipp in Thurles as manager arrived in 2022 when Clare were comfortable 3-21 2-16 winners, Galvin again raiding for a major with Peter Duggan and Tony Kelly also raising green flags.

A third successive Munster final was reached in 2024 when Clare left Thurles with a 1-24 0-24 win over Liam Cahill’s Tipp.

Last year in Ennis, the turning point in Tipperary’s year arrived when they won 4-18 2-21 which ended Clare’s reign as All-Ireland champions. Seasons tend to swing and change when Clare and Tipperary meet in the Munster championship and Clare will be hoping it swings in their favour

by Saturday night.

Ian Galvin has rattled the net in two of Clare’s last three championship meetings with Tipperary in Thurles. Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

Mills only unbeaten side in Clare Masters begin new campaign Clare Cup & Éire Óg pick up first win of 2026

by Páraic McMahon

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Clonlara’s Aidan Moriarty keeps a close grip on Scariff forward Keelan Hartigan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

CLARE’s masters football team are up and running for 2026 Having reached the All-Ireland semi-final last year to Limerick, Clare got their campaign up and running for 2026 when travelling to Moyvane.

They came up against a strong Kerry outfit and lost out 1-17 0-7, conceding 1-8 in the final ten minutes.

Lissycasey will be the setting for Clare’s first home game on Saturday week (May 23rd) at 14:00 when they face Galway.

Kilkee’s Patrick Geary is back in the hotseat as manager of the Clare Masters. He is joined on the management team by Kevin O’Malley of the Banner and Clondegad’s Flan Enright. He told The Clare Echo, “At this level having a panel of 25 per game is a must because the old legs tire quickly so it’s massively important that we have plenty of subs on the day to roll on and off as needed. At the start of the year I reached out to

all GAA clubs in the county and extended an invite to all players that are over 40 to make contact if they were interested in getting involved, thankfully we had a great response and added some new blood to the group, this year with the new players we have brought in and add that to the experienced players we have, we are hoping to go one further this year and bring some silverware back to Clare”.

Kilmihil’s Philip Ryan has been appointed as team captain with Ger ‘Bobby’ Kelly of Kildysart the team’s vice captain.

Members of the panel include former Clare senior football captain Alan Clohessy along with ex Clare senior footballers Gordon Kelly, Enda Coughlan and Barry Duggan. Kelly and his St Joseph’s Miltown clubmate Brian Curtin are still lining out at senior level for their club along with goalkeeper Ian McInerney from Kilmurry Ibrickane with Kilrush Shamrock’s Jim Young part of their intermediate outfit.

Geary praised Clare GAA Head of Operations, Ann Marie Moran for her support of the Masters since taking on the post in January. “We ran a very successful raffle at the end of last year and again I want to thank all local business owners that sponsored a prize and to everyone that bought tickets, the Clare GAA has been especially generous in their commitment to the Masters, since AnnMarie has come in she has been a pleasure to deal with”.

Clare GAA Masters Panel: Alan Clohessy (Liscannor), Ger Moore (Banner), Barry Duggan (Cratloe), Brian Curtin (St Joseph’s Miltown), Gearoid Lynch (St Senan’s Kilkee), Ger ‘Bobby’ Kelly (Kildysart), Colm Davoren (Parteen/ Meelick), Conor Crowley (Cooraclare), Enda Coughlan (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Enda Keenan (Banner), Flan Enright (Clondegad), Gerry Moran (Lissycasey), Gordon Kelly (St Joseph’s Miltown), Ian McInerney (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Jim Young

(Kilrush Shamrocks), Joe Greene (Doonbeg), John Roche (O’Currys), Johnny Bridges (Wolfe Tones), Johnny O’Brien (Clooney/ Quin), Justin Ryan (Cooraclare), Keith King (Kilmurry Ibrickane), Keith Ryan (Kildysart), Kevin Hennelly (Banner), Kevin O’Malley (Banner), Kieran Carkill (Corofin), Mark Fitzgerald (O’Callaghans Mills), Mark Kelly (Éire Óg), Michael Haugh (Kilmihil), Mike McCarthy (Banner), Micheál Hawes (Cratloe), Noel Finnucane (Lissycasey), Noel Nash (O’Callaghans Mills), Padraigh Chaplin (Cratloe), Pádraig Hickey (Broadford), Padjo McGrath (Kilrush Shamrocks), Patrick Geary (St Senan’s Kilkee), Paul Nagle (Lissycasey), Philip Ryan (Kilmihil), Philip Ryan (St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield), Robert Harte (St Senan’s Kilkee), Robert Kilkenny (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield), Ronan Doyle (Éire Óg), Seán Chaplin (Cratloe), Shane McNeilis (Kildysart), Tom McGrath (St Senan’s Kilkee)

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‘It’s knockout now’ - Madden disappointed as Clare fall flat in Tailteann opener

By Páraic McMahon

FLAT, lifeless and lethargic, Clare’s sixth defeat of the year between league, championship and the Tailteann Cup was up their as their most disappointing.

A 1-17 1-14 defeat at home to Offaly on Saturday has Clare needing a win in Round 2B of the Tailteann Cup next weekend against Longford in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg otherwise their season will be over at the earliest opportunity.

Clare manager Paul Madden admitted their backs are now to the wall as they enter must-win territory. “It is knockout now, maybe that is what we need to be under that bit more pressure, we had prepared quite well, we thought we had but it was just one of those days”.

It took until the forty fifth minute for Clare to take the lead against Offaly, Cormac Murray kicking a two pointer, shortly after scoring a goal. They would only lead on two occasions in the game, Brian McNamara with two points in a row seeing them regain an advantage on fifty two minutes.

Madden felt there was a flatness to their performance. “We won the

throw-in but we were chasing it from the start, it was a flat sort of a game all round. The atmosphere was flat bar the goal and the two pointer which gave us a lead, we had four points scored in the first half and there was a difficult breeze but we only got four points and had loads of chances, it went wide or kicked to the goalie’s hands. It is very disappointing, we are where we are, we’ve a couple of weeks to get our heads into the next round”.

He added, “It was a bit flat, I can’t fully put my finger on it after the game but when you start kicking balls short into the keeper’s hands and start missing shots that you should be scoring then that is going to add to the flatness. They got a couple of clutch scores, we got the goal and then we let them in for their goal, just switching off of concentration and then it is a score. They were full value for their win and were definitely the better team overall”.

Ennis native Paul was left as downbeat with their performance as much as the result. “The result is hugely disappointing but the performance is disappointing, we were so poor today for the most part, a couple of

Clare receive home draw to Longford in second round of Tailteann Cup

By Páraic McMahon

CLARE’s senior footballers will welcome Longford to Cusack Park in two weeks as they enter do-or-die territory in the Tailteann Cup. Home comforts have yet to stand to Paul Madden’s side in 2026 with one win from five home outings in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg across the year.

They will be looking to begin rectifying that statistic when they host Longford in a fortnight’s time in Round 2B of the Tailteann Cup. A poor display from Clare on Saturday saw Offaly record their first competitive win of the year at their expense on a score of 1-17 1-14. Offaly have been handed the toughest draw in Round 2A and will face the winners of Down or Leitrim.

Next up for Clare are Longford on May 23rd/24th, a side they will be facing in next year’s National Football League following their promotion from Division 4 where they finished in second spot to Carlow with four wins, a draw and two defeats losing to London and Leitrim.

Winners of the Clare versus Longford tie will meet one of the four losers from Round 2A of the Tailteann Cup. Limerick who are coached by Quilty’s Evan Talty and have Dylan Kenny of Shannon Gaels as their S&C coach have been paired away to Wicklow in Round 2B. Tailteann Cup Round 2A: Antrim v Tipperary Fermanagh v Wexford Offaly v Winner Down or Leitrim London v Laois

Tailteann Cup Round 2B Wicklow v Limerick Clare v Longford Waterford v Sligo Loser Down or Leitrim v Carlow

The Round 2A & 2B fixtures will be played on the weekend of May 23-24.

decent things but our shot selection and execution was chronic in the first half and practically as bad in the second half. I give credit to Offaly, this was a big one for them, they hadn’t won a competitive game all year so they were obviously going to go at it but when we got the goal and a point straight after to go ahead for the first time you thought ok just settle, take our time, work a few scores but it didn’t happen for us. They got kickouts away quite easily in the second half, a lot of the time we just gave them a platform and they were running at us at pace, they are a running team, they run the ball and they had some wides that they wouldn’t be happy with but overall they were fully deserving of their win”.

Against the All-Ireland champions Kerry a fortnight previous, Clare kicked one wide in the whole game, this figure sky rockete to fourteen against an Offaly side who had failed to register a win across nine competitive matches in 2026 prior to coming to Cusack Park. “There were five shots dropped short into the goalie too which I would class as worse than a wide, that is the guts of twenty bad shots and not always un-

Clare’s senior football side stand for the national anthem Photo by Gerard O’Neill

der pressure too which is frustrating.

Our shooting efficiency all year has been strong but today it was really poor. There were lots of other facets to the game that weren’t great but if you have that amount of wides you will lose a game”.

Captain Cillian Rouine was a late omission from Saturday’s team.

He was ruled out due to illness and joined the already absent Eoin Cleary, Darragh Bohannon, Dermot Coughlan, Stephen Ryan, Seán McAllister and Emmet McMahon.

When asked by The Clare Echo if such continued losses in personnel

was impacting on the morale and confidence of the team, Madden stated, “Morale isn’t the issue, it is my job to manage the morale of the players. The players want to play for Clare, that is the main thing, losing your captain before the throw-in to a flu virus which hit him pretty bad over the last forty eight hours isn’t ideal but I wouldn’t have mentioned it only for you brought it up, we have a panel of twenty eight today including the stand-in players, we had players good enough to win the game we just didn’t execute it”.

‘We dug deep but our pockets weren’t deep enough’ - Hayes reflects on Clare’s Munster minor exit

By Mortimer Murphy

JOE Hayes is not a man to make excuses and while he agreed that the scoreboard flattered Kerry a tad, it’s what the final result.

Speaking following Clare’s exit from the Munster minor football championship, he said, “Listen, it probably doesn’t (scoreboard reflecting the game), but at the same time, unfortunately, in the record books, it is going to be fourteen points. A bit of a sickener there with the goal, playing the last ten minutes with fourteen men.

“We were against the odds at that stage anyway. I thought we did very well for a long part of the game. I thought their bench made a huge impact. And maybe our bench didn’t make the same impact it made the previous seven days ago. But it is what it is now, I suppose. It probably is just a small bit of a sickener.

Just a couple of points and the goal there at the end, just when our legs were probably gone and we’d run out of ideas,” the minor manager added.

Two missed goal chances in the first half were costly for Clare who were level with Kerry at the break in Tralee. “When you’re playing Kerry and Cork, you can’t

be leaving goal chances behind you. We did, but listen that happens. We kind of said at half-time that this time last year, we went in leading. And within seven or eight minutes, we were about six or seven points down. So we just wanted to keep it tight for as long as we could.

“We hoped then that we’d find a few gaps and just kick away a few points.

But listen it was a strong breeze, you won’t realise it until you’re out on the field. And probably our kicking game has probably gone a small bit delivering ball into Liam (Keane. And we had to bring him out to field to try and get on ball. So, yeah, it’s tough, tough going”.

Hayes acknowledged that Clare were unable to match Kerry’s strong finish. “I don’t know what to say about it. You’re like 40 minutes gone, eight all, 42 minutes gone, and four points down.

What can you do? Listen, when they got going, I thought Stephen (O’Neill) did a very good job on Danny Murphy, I thought he did a good job. But he got tired and Danny Murphy’s a great player.

He probably clipped a good few points there at the end. But I thought Stephen manfully went at his task, as did all the boys. I thought Tristan (O’Loughlin) and Caelum (Killeen); I

thought the defence was outstanding.

I thought the full-back line were outstanding in fairness to them”.

Clare needed everyone at their disposal to upset Kerry, Joe said.

“When you’re coming down against Kerry, you have to have a bit of luck and have all the things going in your favour.

Darren Fitz was sick the last two days, couldn’t even travel. He was supposed to start. I know he was named number seventeen. He was supposed to start wing-back. Michael (Normoyle) had a recurrence of his ankle injury last week.

He could only play 15, 20 minutes there.

We’re probably not deep enough to do without a fit Michael and Darren Fitz”.

Player development remained the main focus for the ex Clare goalkeeper.

“That’s the main goal, is to develop these lads, see how many we can get on to Clare U20 panels, Clare senior panels in the future. Life lessons, there’ll be some harsh life lessons now this year. Harsh life lessons against Cork, there’ll be some harsh life lessons today.

And, you know, when the going gets tough, you really, really, really have to dig deep. You really have to. Listen, we dug deep, but maybe just our pockets weren’t deep enough, maybe”.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Mar 14, 2026

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Winning Pierce Purcell starts for Kilrush, Dromoland & Spanish Point

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THE race for this season’s Pierce Purcell title is up and running and there has been mixed luck for Clare clubs in the early stages.

Kilrush progessed to the next round when they defeated Limerick 2.5 to 1.5 in Kilrush last week and they are now through to the next round where they will take on Nenagh.

Last week’s Kilrush team compised Michael Studdert and David Abbott; Pat J. Shannon and Tom Coffey; John McGrath and Geremiah Brennan; Barry Coleman and Eoin Fitzgerald.

Dromoland are also though to the next round following their victory over Woodstock while Spanish Point have also advanced as a result of their win over Ennis in a match that was decided on the 19th hole.

Meanwhile in the J B Carr (seniors) competition, last year’s beaten All-Ireland finalists Woodstock are through to the Clare final where they will play Shannon in a home and away contest.

The Woodstock side defeated Dromoland last week in a game that was also decided on the 19h. The members of the Woodstock side in that game were Ollie McNamara and Pat Barry;

Tony Coote and Joe Keane; Michael O’Brien and John O’Connor; Sean Williams and Gerry Griffey, Paul Coote and Frank McEnery.

SHANNON GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at Shannon last weekend was for the Dr. William Flynn medal, sponsored by Gleeson Goldsmiths.

Michael Allen (10) emerged as the winner with 69 and he had one to spare over Billy Dunne (10) with third spot filled by Fergus Coughlan (9), also with 70.

Category A was won by Keith Buckley (4) with 73 from Jason O’Donnell (1), also with 73.

Derek Enright (12) with 71 won category B from Alan Linton (11) with 72 while category 3 was won by Ben O’Neill (21) with 72 from John Spillane (23) with 74.

In the Dr. William Flynn ProAm the professional category was won by Jimmy Bolger with 68. He had a stroke to spare over Shane O’Sullivan with third spot filled by James Quinlivan with 70.

Thomas J. McMahon (8) won the men’s 9 hole competition with 19 points.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: The P & M sponsored ladies 18 hole stroke medal competition at Dromoland was won by Dorothy Brennan with 71 and she was three ahead of Julie

Fitzgerald. Third spot was filled by Karina Doyle with 75 followed by Lesley O’Flynn also with 75. The gross was won by Mairéad Toomey.

Michael Lally won the men’s golfer of the year medal competition with 69 nett. In second place with 72 was Cathal Nolan with Fergus O’Brien in third spot also with 72. Pat Keogh with 75 won the category for those with handicaps of 20 and over while the gross was won by Jason Ryan with 79.

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB: The overall winner of the ladies 18 hole stroke medal competition at East Clare last week was Maria Kennedy (30) with 72 nett. The category winners wee Noreen Doyle (21) with 75 nett, Margaret Hoey (29) with 76 nett and Ann Harte (34) with 77 nett.

The Ryder Cup competition was won by Brid Hayes and Deirdre Tuohy with 51 points with second place filled by Brid Gurnett and Maureen Clune with 50 points.

The men’s scratch matchplay qualifier off blue tees saw Stephen Moloney (3) with 68 win the gross and he also won the birdie competition while the nett was won by Russell Trow: (19) with 66 ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The Duggan cup, a golfer of the

year v par competition for men was played for at Ennis at the weekend. The EBS sponsored competition was played over 17 holes and was won by Niall Hannon (9) with +4. He won on a countback from Barry Larkin (10) with the gross won by Kieran Fox with -5.

The category winners were David Considine (13) with +1, Michael Cooney (17) with +3, Michael Cummins (21) with level and Michael Irwin (27) with +1 The ladies 17 hole fourball competition, sponsored by Tadhg O’Flynn Jewellers, O’Connell Street, Ennis was won by Martina Corbett (30) and Marie Connolly (43) with 41 points. They won on a countback from Ann A.Gallery (12) and Helen Gallery (23). In third place with 38 points were Patricia O’Reilly (29) and Eileen Holly (37) .

David Considine (12) won the Friday open singles with 37 points from David Maxwel (17) with 31 points with Patsy Kett (14), also with 31 points, in third place.

The Flogas mixed fourball team defeated Woodstock, 2.5 to 1.5 and they will play Kilkee in the next round.

The new green at the 2nd hole will open this Saturday and this will see competitions being played over 18 holes SPANISH POINT GOLF CLUB:

Niamh O’Regan. with 72 was the winner of the ladies stroke competition at Spanish Point last week. She won by two from Mairead Begin with Aine Burke in third place on 75.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The Med Pharma and West Clare Trophies monthly medal was the competition at Kilrush last weekend when Brian Scanlan (12) was the winner with 66. He had one to spare over Fergal S Crowley (17) with Michael Twomey (24) in third place with 68.

The gross was won by Brian Conway with 76 and he also won the youth medal with 69.

The category winners were Bernard Coleman (9) with 70, Tony McMahon (17) with 70 and Tom Walsh (20) with 69.

Mary Nolan (19) with 39 points won the Brew’s 18 hole ladies competition at Kilrush this week. Category 1 was won by Anne-Marie Donnellan (16) with 36 points and she won on a countback from Annie Gallagher (13).

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: The weekend competition at Woodstock was a club singles which was won by David Quinn (11) with 62. Alan Markham (3) won the gross with 74.

Mark Sweeney (7) won category 1 with 71 from Ross Kenny (9) with 72. Category 2 was won on a countback by

Mike Liddy (13) with 68 from Cillian O’Donohue (13) while category 3 was won by Mark O’Dwyer (27) with 65.

Colm O’Callaghan had a hole in one on the 14th. The competition this weekend will be the captain’s fourball Last week’s ladies 18 hole stableford competition was won by Mary Mc Namara with 39 points from Mary Gleeson with 37 points.

GORT GOLF CLUB: The Bob Forde cup, sponsored

by T.J. O’Mahoney Builders was played for at Gort last weekend when the winner of the18 hole stableford competition was Colman Cooney (9) with 42 points.

The category winners were JJ Grehan (14) with 36 points, Declan O Halloran (15) with 38 points and Philip Dunne (28) with 42 points Monday’s Open 18 hole singles stableford competition was won by Pat Loughnane (40) with 41 points while the category winners were Kevin Moran (9) with 39 points, Bartley Hynes (14) with 39 points and David Mulligan (17) with 38 points.

The ladies 18 hole single stableford competition was won by Carmel Broder (46) with 44 points from Anne O’Connor (54) with 39 points.

Ballyea Warrior wins in Shelbourne

By Michael Maher

The long trip to Shelbourne Park on last Friday night proved successful for Banner greyhounds.

In the final of the Tote Betting A1 N8 525 Sweepstake worth €2,000 the winner was Ballyea Warrior owned

by Noel Gavin of Ballyea and trained

by Declan McDonagh, the winning time here was 28.17.

Race two was round one of the 1XBet Islandbridge SSO Stake here Tiermana Dream was the winner in a time of 18.30, the Clare greyhound is owned by the Zero-Zero-Syndicate and trained in Kilrush by Colm Fitzgerald.

Friday night’s ten race Galway card featured three stake finals all over 525 yards in Novice, A5 and A6 grade’s with the concluding A2 graded contest the top graded event on the card. In the top graded A2 525 Norfolkandchance in the red jacketed was away smartly as Rydar Rocket and Glenwood Sheamus began well towards the outer as they raced towards the opening bend where the Declan McDonagh trained Norfolkandchance tracked well to extend his advantage to two lengths over

Glenwood Sheamus as they entered the back straight. Racing along the back the son of Ballyhimikin Jet and Raha Gogo extended his advantage to four lengths as Glengar Sofia joined the chase but the NorfolkAnd-Chance owned Norfolkandchance was home and hosed on the crown of the home turn scoring by four and a half lengths from Glengar Sofia at the line in 29.27.

Cragataska Black and Alva Chase were both away well in the A5 graded 525 yards contest and as they reached the opening bend the Declan McDonagh trained Alva Chase used the inside line to take a couple of lengths out of his rivals as he turned down the back straight.

Racing along the back Alva Chase opened up a three length advantage on his rivals as Pronto Bucks and Cragataska Black gave chase. Off the home bend the Declan and Gerard Lillis of Cooraclare owned runner began to tread water but he saw off the renewed effort of Cragataska Black by a length and a half in 29.63. It proved to be a night to remember for the Declan McDonagh kennels with these two winners at Galway and one winner at Shelbourne Park.

Ballyea Warrior with trainer Declan McDonagh and owner Noel Gavin

The opening contest of the night was an A7 graded 525 yards contest in which Drimeen Jetty was away well in the centre of the track and showed pace to lead from the wide running Lissatouk Robbie with Heathlawn Devil in third place as they

reached the turn. Taking the bend the Seamus McMahon of Cooraclare owned Lissatouk Robbie ran right round his rivals to show narrowly in front entering the back straight.

Racing along the back Lissatouk Robbie and Drimeen Jetty continued to match strides before the former went a length clear off the home bend. Close home Drimeen Jetty rallied again but Lissatouk Robbie prevailed by a short head at the line in 29.44.

Cloonoon Annie was away well towards the inside in the S4 graded sprint contest but she was quickly joined on the outside of the track by Crinkhill Ranger and the striped jacketed Glasheen Model who edged to the front as they closed in on the opening bend. Continuing her progress out wide the Brendan Browne of Kilkee owned Glasheen Model led by two lengths from Crinkhill Ranger on the crown of the home bend. Clear off the home turn Glasheen Model had two and a half lengths to spare over Grangeview Rocko at the line in 19.29.

As the traps rose for the final of the Talking Dogs A6 525 Stake Mollys Ambition was just about best away

from her trap five berth but on the run towards the opening bend she was joined by Ballygibbon Smok along the inner as Island Ivy appeared on the wide outside as they rounded the opening bend. Swinging down the back Island Ivy took over in front from Mollys Ambition but approaching the halfway mark the Johnny Burke of Tubber and Gerry Maloney of Clarecastle owned Threebagsofmeat swept through along the inner before taking a definite advantage at the third bend. Quickly taking command the daughter of Ballyhimikin Jet and Grangeview Nifty drew right away to defeat the staying on Guideys Freaky by three and a half lengths in 29.59.

Down Limerick way there was a nice double for Myles Cummins as both Snuggie Tasha and Snuggie Carson landed their respective contests. The first to prevail was ‘Tasha’ as she sealed a two length victory over Tally Ho Storm in second. The 3/1 chance arrived late to seal a two length victory in 28.91. In the very next race, ‘Carson’ sealed the double as he made every inch of the running.

Drawn in trap one, the 5/2 chance came home three lengths clear of Foyle Con in 28.74.4.

28

Thursday, May 14, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Plannings

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS PLANNING REF: P2560697 Development Description: Planning permission to construct a new dwelling house, private garage, site entrance, on-site wastewater treatment system and all associated site works and services Location: Caherea, Lissycasey, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Rita Donnelly & Joe Condron have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P2560697. 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, Áras Contae an Chláir, 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.

CLARE COUNTY

COUNCIL, FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS Planning Ref: P2660020 Development Description: Outline permission to construct a new dwelling house, on-site wastewater treatment system and all associated site works and services Location: Knockaluscraun, Barefield, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Marie Clare Leamy has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P2660020.

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, Áras Contae an Chláir, 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.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/

REVISED PLANS Planning Reference: P25/60402 Location: Doire na mBláth, Tulla Road, Roslevan, Ennis Co Clare.

Take notice that Drumquin Construction Ltd. has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P25/60402. 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, Áras Contae an Chláir, 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 COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS Planning Ref: P26/60008 Development Description: Retention Permission for

the extensions and alterations made to the existing dwelling house, the front boundary wall and site entrance walls along with the wastewater system and associated internal site works. Permission is sought to complete the dwelling along with associated site works at the above address.

Location: Ballycotteen North, Liscannor, Co. Clare Take notice that D. Logue has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P26/60008. 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, Áras Contae an Chláir, 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 COUNTY

COUNCIL KNOCKANALBAN, MULLAGH, CO CLARE. Take notice that Kieran Killeen intends to apply for planning permission to build a new dwelling, install a wastewater treatment unit, create a new entrance onto the public road & 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 KEELDERRY, BODYKE, CO. CLARE, V94 HNK0.

Take notice that Fiona Flynn intends to apply for planning permission to retain the extension and alterations to the existing dwelling & 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.

30

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

News

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES May 14th

THURSDAY, JUL 7 2022

PUZZLE

39

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES JULY 7th

WORD SEARCH

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

Supporting Journalism in Clare

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

31

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May 14, 2026

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Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz

In what year did Moneypoint power station open?

1988 1979 1959

Which Saint is associated with Kilrush?

St. Brigid St. Patrick St. Senan

Which prominent Dutch family was associated with Kilrush for hundreds of years?

The Vandeleurs The Van Der Lindes The Van Bastens

What is the name of the GAA pitch in Kilrush?

Cusack Park Captain Tubridy Memorial Park Páirc an Dálaigh

What colours do Kilrush Shamrocks GAA play in?

Black and white Green and red Green and white

Movies to see this week

What was the population of Kilrush as per 2022?

3500 1567 2649

Kilrush is known as Cill Rois in Irish. What does this mean?

Church of Ross Church of the woods Church of the king

Businessman James Paterson developed much of the town in the 19th century. What country was he from?

England Scotland Wales

What island is located 15 minutes from the coast of Kilrush?

Inismór Scattery Island Bull Island

What major Irish historical event was commemorated in Kilrush in 2013?

The Great Famine The War of Independence Catholic Emancipation

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS St. Senan Captain Tubridy Memorial Park 2649 Scotland The Great Famine

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

1979 The Vandeleurs Green and white Church of the woods Scattery Island

Spot the Difference

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

Last weeks Answers . Medal missing (left) . Logo missing on shorts (right) . Color different on medal (second from right) . Logo missing on (left)

. Letter P missing on jersey (second left) . Flag missing in the background . Letter E missing on jersey (right)

CLARE’S U20 hurlers have shown tremendous character in their run to a Munster final but they are now determined to claim silverware as reward for their efforts Photo by Gerard O’Neil

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