The Clare Echo 17/04/25

CLIFFS OF MOHER EXCLUSIVE

Council paid €8m for sites adjacent to tourist hotspot

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council paid more than €8m for two sites adjacent to the Cliffs of Moher.

An external audit of the local authority has revealed that a staggering €8m plus was paid by the Council for two separate sites in Liscannor, located north and south of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre. Elected members of the Council were not aware of the €8m plus costs. Former Council Chief Executive Pat Dowling previously said the purchase of the sites

“was considered key” for the success of the Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040. He stated, “The Council is committed to ensuring best practice and value for money is achieved in the purchase of lands.”

Negotiations on the future management of the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk are expected to become more hostile with the unveiling of the €8m deal as the Council prepares to engage with 36 landowners along the 18km coastal trail.

In the same audit which covers 2023, governance

Championship fever hits Banner County

CHAMPIONSHIP fever is descending on Clare with the county’s senior hurlers, footballers and camogie side in action this weekend, writes Páraic McMahon

Tickets are like gold dust for Clare’s first championship outing as All-Ireland senior hurling champions when they welcome the high-flying Cork to Ennis this Sunday. Clare’s camogie side face off with Cork in a curtain raiser to this game and they have been boosted by the return of three experienced players for this clash.

Peter Keane’s championship reign as Clare football manager commences on Saturday. Clare face Tipperary at 2pm and are aiming to qualify for a third successive Munster final and secure a place in the All-Ireland SFC.

Large crowds are expected in the county town, particularly on Sunday with cafes, restaurants and pubs hopeful of recording a spike in business.

See our full championship supplement from pages 29-38.

standards of the local authority have also been questioned after the auditor experienced difficulties securing information on an acquisition worth almost €1m in Bunratty. “It proved challenging and time consuming to obtain all the necessary information as a complete file was not maintained,” they stated.

That a complete file was not maintained in the eyes of the external auditor is “a fairly damning indictment of how the organisation is doing its business,” Cllr Shane Talty (FF) told The Clare Echo FULL STORY P10-11

We

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Clare chefs are best in their field

Shannon Region Junior Chef of the Year 2025 winner Oscar Mehta from St Anne’s Community College with fellow finalist students, Sara Murphy from Coláiste Íde agus Iosef, Oisín Tierney from Ennis Community College/Gaelcholáiste an Chláir, and Olek Rutkowski from Mungret Community College. The competition, now in its fifth year, is organised by Limerick and Clare ETB’s College of FET Hospitality Campus.

Burren Distillery granted permission for extension

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THE Burren Distillery has been granted planning permission for a new dry store and bonded warehouse at their site in Ballyvaughan.

The Newtown distillers have been granted permission for the “provision of extension to existing bonded warehouse and provision of new dry store, together with the provision of stainless steel holding tank for pot ale waste”.

Burren Distillers first began producing whiskey in 2019 where the distillers use the

local landscape to their advantage in the production of premium whiskey. Locally grown malt as well as recycled rainwater from the on-site wells is used to distil the whiskey. The whiskey is stored in barrels made of Irish oak and infused with locally made honey.

In February, the whiskey makers applied for a development at their facility. Architect Michael Leahy stated in the application that the distillery “cannot continue in operation” if the proposed development was not granted. The bonded warehouse is a revenue requirement in order to be licensed to sell whiskey.

Clare County Council has granted permission for he development but has issued a number of conditions that must be adhered to. Due to the distillery’s unique location within the Burren, there are a number of environmental risks associated with the development. The planning department have outlined that “No pot ale waste or any other waste or by-product material from the facility shall be land-spread. All waste material, including pot ale waste, shall be stored in an

appropriate manner on site to prevent any nuisance, odour or risk of pollution”.

Burren Distillers have been ordered to pay a contribution of €5,764.68 to Clare County Council in light of the “public infrastructure and facilities benefitting development in the area of the Planning Authority”. This contribution is to be paid prior to the commencement of the development with interest penalties to be added on if this is not paid.

A HUGE 5-day clearance sale will take place at Home Trends, Parnell Street, Ennis this week.

Running today, Thursday April 17-Tuesday, April 23, Home Trends are offering up to 50% off – EVERYTHING MUST GO!

The countdown is on! For 5 days only, Home Trends is slashing prices across the entire store in their BIGGEST-EVER CLEARANCE EVENT! From luxurious beds to cosy sofas, dining sets, mattresses, mirrors, rugs, and more – you’ll find unbeatable bargains for every room and every budget.

UNMISSABLE DEALS INCLUDE:

• 3ft Single Mattresses – from €129

• 4’6” Double Mattresses – from €189

• Natural Sleep Co. Luxury Mattresses –from €349 (double)

• 3-1-1 Sofa Suites – from €899

• Belgium Full Leather Reclining Suite (31-1) – Only €2,499

• Coffee Tables – from €129

• Dining Tables – from €199

• Queen Anne Armchairs – from €499

• Nest of Tables – from €89 …plus hundreds more discounted items in-store!

EVERYTHING MUST GO – EX-DISPLAY & CLEARANCE STOCK!

Perfect for homes, Airbnb, rentals, or renovations – these prices won’t be repeated!

LOCAL FAMILY BUSINESS YOU CAN TRUST

Finbar & Eileen Keaveney have proudly served the Ennis community for over a de-

cade. Home Trends is known for exceptional customer care, a friendly and knowledgeable team, and strong support for Irish suppliers. They stock a wide range of high-quality Irishmade furniture and homeware, helping to support local jobs and the Irish economy.

BONUS SERVICES:

• Free delivery in Co Clare (T&Cs apply)

• Nationwide delivery available

• Furniture/mattress removal (nominal fee)

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• All packaging recycled FREE *CLOSED BH MONDAY, APRIL 21 WHERE TO FIND US: Home Trends, Parnell Street, Ennis – Eir-

Photo by Brian Arthur

GP cover imbalance flagged in Clare as HSE works to secure permanent Newmarket-on-Fergus service

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

HSE OFFICIALS have said they are ‘actively working’ on plans to secure a permanent GP for the village of Newmarket-on-Fergus while a Clare TD has criticised the imbalance of GP cover in the county.

A part-time GP service has been provided from Carrigoran House since June 2020, Saffron and Blue Medical Centre received a contract from the HSE to provide a GP service from the location. In May 2019, Dr Colum Hackett retired as GP in the village after forty two years working as a GP in Newmarket-on-Fergus.

Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) has urged the HSE to redress the imbalance of GP cover in Clare, Limerick, and North Tipperary compared to surrounding regions.

New figures from the HSE show there are 258 GPs catering to a population of 385,712 in Clare, Limerick, and North Tipperary, which represents one GP per 1,493 people. GP cover in the region is lower than in Galway/Roscommon/Mayo and Kerry/Cork, which have one GP per 1,387 people and 1,382 people, respectively.

Nationally, there are 3,160 GPs

with a public contract, in addition to other GPs, including those who work privately, GPs in training, and International Medical Graduate (IMG) participants.

Newmarket-on-Fergus which is Clare’s fifth largest population centre has had a part-time GP service for the last five years. Deputy Cooney said he has engaged with HSE Mid-West in recent days to secure a permanent GP service in Newmarket-on-Fergus.

HSE Mid-West confirmed it is actively working on plans to secure permanent GP accommodation in the locality. In the meantime, Dr. Colum Gavin of Saffron & Blue Medical is continuing to provide a GP service to patients on Monday mornings and all day on Thursdays from its current location at Carrigoran House. Outside of these times, patients from the Newmarket-on-Fergus area can be seen at Saffron & Blue Medical Centre at Clareabbey, Clarecastle.

Following representations from the local community in Kildysart, Deputy Cooney said he will also be raising the ongoing part-time locum doctor service being provided by Saffron & Blue Medical Centre in the village, with a view to having a full-time service restored.

“The figures provided by HSE

Mid-West show a clear imbalance between the Mid-West and surrounding regions in terms of permanent GP accommodation,” he explained. “Having received the data to back this up, I will now ask the Minister for Health to increase pressure on the HSE to expedite in-

vestment in GP cover across Clare, Limerick, and North Tipperary”.

“In my engagement with the HSE, I was informed that the HSE is working closely with the Irish College of General Practitioners on a range of measures to expand the GP workforce. While I acknowledge that GP training places nationally have increased from an intake of 259 in 2022 to 350 in 2024, it is clear that the Mid-West is not benefiting in the same way as other parts of the country from the corresponding rise in newly qualified GPs.

“The situation in Newmarket-on-Fergus is a case in point, as the town has been without a permanent GP presence since the retirement of Dr. Colum Hackett in May 2019. Likewise, the local community in Kildysart have contacted me with a view to securing a full-term service. The Strategic Review of General Practice, which is currently being led by the Department of Health, must be expedited so the arrangements necessary to improve access to GP care in larger population centres can be identified and action taken to redress the imbalance,” Cooney added.

lGP COVER IMBALANCE: Saffron and Blue Medical Centre [cut-out: TD Joe Cooney (FG)]

Phoenix House to be used for student accommodation in Shannon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PHOENIX HOUSE located in the heart of Shannon Town is to be used for student accommodation.

Up until June of last year, Phoenix House had been accommodating Ukrainian refugees before they were moved suddenly, 75 of which were relocated to Lisdoonvarna. The building which was formerly the headquarters of Shannon Development, accommodated in the region of 200 Ukrainians since the outbreak of war.

It has now emerged that the building will be used for student accommodation with students of the world renowned Shannon College of Hotel Management earmarked for the premises.

Last month, the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth confirmed that Phoenix House had not been offered for the accommodation of international protection applicants nor were they examining it for future use.

This statement followed a query from UGP Shannon SC Limited to Clare County Council asking if the change of use from long-term vacant office building to residential temporary accommodation was classed as development and if it was deemed exempted development. The Council clarified that it did constitute development with temporary

exemption to allow for the purpose of accommodating people seeking international protection until the end of 2028.

On Tuesday, Clare TD Donna McGettigan (SF) met with the owners of the shopping centre, Shannon Town Centre who confirmed that Phoenix House will be used for student accommodation.

Speaking following her meeting with Tom Coughlan, Deputy McGettigan stated, “Tom has been aware of the needs of students and I’m sure we all see it ourselves on our social media that when apprenticeships are starting or the world renowned Hotel College is starting its new term, we become inundated with people looking for places to stay. This will also tie in nicely with the new apprenticeships announced in the last few days.

I wish Tom all the best on this.

“In terms of housing in Clare, it is a huge issue and these units probably wouldn’t suit families or long-term housing needs. Housing is something I will continue to push and advocate for as I always do every day”.

Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) sad he spoke with the owner “a few weeks back, he didn’t seem keen to go public at the time”. He added, “I’d also spoken to the Hotel College, again I would respect their privacy at that time. I am delighted with this news and wish them all the very best of success”.

lSTUDENT ACCOMODATION: Pheonix House

Photo by Joe Buckley

wind farm off coasts of Clare & Galway is pulled as developers stop Sceirde Rocks plans

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PLANS for a 450MW wind farm off the coasts of Clare and Galway have been pulled.

Corio Generation and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan will not proceed with its Sceirde Rocks project on the west coast of Ireland. They have decided to halt the development, less than a month after submitting a planning application to An Bord Pleanála.

More detailed site investigations uncovered that the €1.4bn offshore wind farm was going to be more challenging than expected with tough rocky seabed conditions plus severe wave and currents of the west coast the challenging factors believed to have influenced the decision.

Sceirde Rocks was one of six offshore wind farms in the Irish planning system and a project Ireland was relying on to meet its climate targets for 2030. The project was capable of powering 350,000 Irish homes, saving an estimated 550,000 tonnes of CO2 per year and contributing up to €70m in local community initiatives.

Planning and environmental consultants, MKO in planning documents lodged with An Bord Pleanála stated that €1.4bn was going to be the “significant initial investment” of the project “in a rural coastal area, in the offshore renewable energy industry, which is essential for diversifying the energy sector, contributing to the revital-

isation of the rural economy and delivering on climate and energy targets”.

According to the planning documents, it was estimated that €2.4bn would be spent development, construction, operation and decommissioning of the project. Companies and organisations in Galway were tipped to be awarded contracts worth approximately €430m, the Atlantic Region €587m, and nationally €708m.

610 jobs were earmarked to be created during the construction phase of the Sceirde Rocks project generating €53m Gross Value Added (GVA) in Ireland.

In January, plans were unveiled for the landmark 450MW wind farm with 30 turbines over 1,000 feet high in the Atlantic Ocean. It was to be located five kilometres to eleven and a half kilometres off the west coast. It was going to be the first offshore wind farm off Ire-

At a special meeting of Clare County Council at the end of March, elected members urged An Bord Pleanála to defer any approval of the project until meaningful consultation with local communities has taken place. Communities in Clare and Galway have now missed out on a pot of €70m from a community fund which now disappears with the project.

Gravity base foundations similar to those in place at the Fecamp project off France were to be explored by developers. According to The Currency who broke the story, Corio is in talks with Energy Department DECC over next steps. The company this week began a major restructuring effort after parent Macquarie failed to find a buyer. “Given challenging market conditions in the offshore wind sector, Corio Generation is refocusing its global operations to prioritise the development of a smaller portfolio of projects which have the clearest route through to construction,” it said.

land’s west coast to go through to An Bord Pleanála for planning permission.

Kilrush based Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) said the decision was “very concerning for the future of off shore wind energy on the west coast, another developer has pulled out. It really feels like the government really don’t understand the complexity of the industry and its solely based on aspirations over facts and reality”.

The applicant company is a joint venture between the Australian based Macquarie Group and global infrastructure investor, the Ontario Teachers Pension Board. Sceirde Rocks which is west of Connemara was referred to as ‘the gates of hell’ by sailors in times gone by.

lOFFSHORE WIND FARM: Sceirde Rocks

Queens Hotel porter assaulted by off duty Garda in Ennis

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

An off-duty Garda - who has represented Roscommon at senior inter-county football level - was “exceptionally intoxicated” when he assaulted a hotel porter late at night in Ennis, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court, Roscommon man, Caoileann Fitzmaurice (31) and who is stationed at Pearse Street Garda Station in Dublin has pleaded guilty to assaulting Olufegun Lawal at the Queen’s Hotel, Abbey Street, Ennis in Co Clare on January 21st, 2023.

In the prosecution against Mr Fitzmaurice of Colliers Avenue, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 taken by the Garda Siochana Ombudsman Commission (GSOC), Sarah Jane Comerford BL outlined the facts in the case to the court.

Ms Comerford (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) said on January 21st 2023, Mr Fitzmaurice who is a Garda, but was off-duty on the night, was out of friends in Ennis and he was brought back to the Queen’s hotel by a number of friends.

Ms Comerford said: “He was exceptionally intoxicated and in a confused state and was brought back by friends for the purpose of putting him to bed.

“But they left him in the care of hotel porter, Mr Lawal and asked Mr Lawal to bring him up to his

room.”

Ms Comerford said: “Unfortunately Garda Fitzmaurice was in such an intoxicated state that he started walking around the hotel. He was very disoriented - he dropped the key to his hotel room and Mr Lawal who was at all times trying to assist him picked up the key and at that point, Garda Fitzmaurice struck him two timesonce in the nose and once in the left eye and Mr Lawal caught the third blow.

She said: “Mr Lawal suffered a bloody nose and he did get some medical attention later that morning.”

“The incident spilled out onto the street where a witness saw Mr Fitzmaurice holding onto Mr Lawal and kicking out. The incident was also captured on CCTV footage.”

Mr Lawal was present in court and Ms Comerford said that “he has declined to give a victim impact statement and is very happy with the guilty plea”.

Ms Comerford said the guilty plea in the case was indicated last week and Judge Alec Gabbett said that it was a very early plea.

On behalf of Mr Fitzmaurice who was also present in court, Cian Kelly BL told the court that what occurred on the night “was completely out of character” for Mr Fitzmaurice.

He said: “There was no attempt

at any stage during the course of the whole thing by Mr Fitzmaurice to invoke his status as a member of An Garda Siochana.”

Mr Kelly asked Judge Gabbett that he would not convict his client and said that Mr Fitzmaurice has offered €5,000 in compensation to Mr Lawal.

He said that Mr Fitzmaurice attested as a Garda in 2017 and is stationed at Pearse Street Garda station

He sad that prior to the Ennis incident Mr Fitzmaurice was a Garda on beat patrol and is currently on Garda office duties

Mr Kelly said that his client “has never had an incident at work and has no previous convictions of any kind”.

Mr Kelly said that Mr Fitzmaurice “is very apologetic”.

He said that Mr Fitzmaurice is currently engaged to be married this year and is heavily involved in GAA where he is captain of local senior football team, Michael Glaveys in Roscommon.

Ms Comerford said that Mr Lawal has stated that he would accept the offer of €5,000 compensation.

Judge Gabbett said that he noted the offer of €5,000 compensation, adjourned the case to June 25th for finalisation and ordered a Probation Report on Mr Fitzmaurice for the adjourned court date.

lLAHINCH TRAD FEST: Young musicians playing at the Lahinch Trad Fest held over the weekend

Photo by John Sheridan

Judge rejects ‘sleepwalking’ defence as West Clare man found guilty of drink driving

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has rejected a defence that a 28-year old West Clare man was undergoing a sleep disorder episode when he was drink-driving and his car veered off the road into a ditch.

At Kilrush District Court on Tuesday, Judge Alec Gabbett has found Jack Sheehan of Sheehan’s Corner, Shragh, Kilrush, Co Clare guilty of drink driving and careless driving on the night of December 2nd 2023.

Imposing penalty, Judge Gabbett has banned Mr Sheehan from driving for two years for the drink driving offence and postponed his driving ban until October following a request from Mr Sheehan’s solicitor Patrick Moylan.

Judge Gabbett said that the defence put forward on behalf of Mr Sheehan was “a very important point raised in defence”.

Insp Ronan McMahon previously told the court that Mr Sheehan was twice over the legal alcohol limit for driving when he crashed his car near the village of Doon-

beg at around 2.30am on December 3rd 2023.

At a contested hearing last September, sleep disorder expert, Dr John Garvey of St Vincent’s Private Hospital in Dublin said that in his opinion that Jack Sheehan on the night of December 2nd 2023 drove his car as a result of a NREM parasomnia.

NREM parasomnia is a non-rapid eye movement disordered sleep-related behaviour that occurs during the first few hours of sleep.

Dr Garvey said that when Garda Gearoid Mangan found Mr Sheehan at the roadside, “he was not clearly awoken from sleep”.

Dr Garvey said that Mr Sheehan had no motive to leave his house and get into his car in the early hours of December 3rd.

In his judgement, Judge Gabbett said that the main issue at hand is that Mr Sheehan was suffering from a form of automatism and that for intent and purpose that Mr Sheehan was asleep whilst driving the car and therefore did not have the requisite ‘mens rea’ and therefore it was not possible for him to commit a crime.

Judge Gabbett said, “The defence are effectively saying that the accused was acting involuntarily and without any internal control of his behaviour. From the medical evidence before the court, he accused only has a recent diagnosis of non REM parasomnia and notwithstanding the clear expertise of Dr Garvey the court is not satisfied that there is a significantly long relationship between the treating doctor and the accused to state with absolute certainty that any of the behaviour was involuntary due to his diagnosis.

“Furthermore, the State quite rightly points out that Dr Garvey was not present on the night and could not with absolute certainty confirm the medical event on the night,” he added.

Judge Gabbett pointed out that the State contended that a defendant cannot rely on automatism where it is produced as a result of voluntary ingestion of substances such as alcohol.

Judge Gabbett said that due to the fact that Dr Garvey cannot confirm absolutely due to the fact that there was no brain tracing on the

night that there was a parasominal event the court finds that there is not sufficient reasonable doubt raised by the defence to allow an acquittal of the charges.

In evidence, Garda Gearoid Morgan told the court that he saw Mr Sheehan’s white Skoda Rapid car veer off the road into a ditch outside Doonbeg at around 2.30am

Garda Morgan said that Mr Sheehan got out of the car and said that he was fine

but his eyes were glassy and speech was slurred that in his opinion rendered him incapable of driving a vehicle.

Garda Morgan arrested Mr Sheehan on suspicion of drink driving and Mr Sheehan said in response, “I am sorry. I was drinking at a friend’s”.

Mr Sheehan was subsequently tested and was found to be over the limit at 68 grams per 100 ml of alcohol.

Asked by solicitor for Mr Sheehan, Mr Moylan how

his client appeared, Garda Morgan said, “He seemed intoxicated.”

In evidence, Mr Sheehan said that he was at home on the night and had four bottles of beer and two rums before going to bed at around 1am.

Mr Sheehan said that he couldn’t recall saying he was at a friend’s house and said that he wasn’t at a friend’s house on the night.

lSLEEP DISORDER: Kilrush district court

Easter hop for Shannon Airport with 123,000 passengers predicted

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

123,000 passengers are expected to hop on

planes at Shannon Airport this Easter season in what is the busiest holiday period so far in 2025 for the International Airport.

An Easter bounce has been predicted for Shannon Airport as it prepares to welcome over 123,000 passengers.

The figure represents a jump on the 107,361 in 2024, 73,000 in 2023 and 50,000 in 2022. Meanwhile, Cork Airport is forecasting 57,000 passengers for the Easter Bank Holiday weekend.

CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine said, “We are looking forward to welcoming overseas visitors, as they bring a welcome boost in tourism across the region”.

She added, “Traditionally the Easter break kick-starts the summer season to our popular destinations and it’s great to see the excitement of families and friends travelling overseas for a sun or city break. Facilities such as our US Preclearance and the airport sensory room, along with the short distance from our car parks to the terminal building, are making Shannon a favourite airport with people from all over Ireland. We wish all our passengers a safe and enjoyable Easter”.

This Easter bounce comes as Shannon has launched its sizzling summer schedule, offering a choice of 36 services to eleven countries across the EU, UK and USA, with an extra 190,000 seats for summer ‘25. The schedule

includes two new destinations - the Portuguese island of Madeira, and Palma.

Alicante, Boston, Barcelona, Beziers, Birmingham, Budapest, Chicago, Corfu, Edinburgh, Faro, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Kaunas, Krakow, Lanzarote, Liverpool, London, Malaga, Malta, Manchester, Naples, New York, Palma, Paris, Porto, Tenerife, Warsaw, and Wroclaw are among the Easter destinations from Shannon.

For those departing Shannon Airport, the average time from the car, through security and to their boarding gate is 12 minutes, thanks to the close proximity of the Age Friendly Airport’s car park and its state-of-the-art screening system.

160 students take flight in school band spectacular at Shannon Airport

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

OVER 160 primary school students from Clare and Limerick took to the stage at Shannon Airport for a musical school band spectacular that had passengers and staff on their toes in the terminal building.

Students from Clare primary schools, Ennis National School, St. Fiannachta’s National School (Sixmilebridge) and Knockanean National School, and from Milford National School (Limerick), gathered at the airport terminal for the reinstatement of the annual Schools Band Spectacular.

This event, which had been a tradition for seven consecutive years before the Covid-19 pandemic, saw school bands

perform at the airport. Welcoming the students, Niall Kearns, Airport Director at Shannon Airport, said,

“We hosted the Schools Band Spectacular for seven years up to 2020, and we are thrilled to have the schools perform for passengers once again. Shannon Airport is deeply embedded in the community here, and events like this help us strengthen our ties with the region.

“There’s always great excitement among the children when they arrive at Shannon Airport. It’s a fun day for us as much as it is for the students. This event is all about providing these talented children with an opportunity to play music for and with their peers, and it was wonderful to see so many passengers and guests enjoying the performances,” he added.

lEASTER BREAK: Pictured at Shannon Airport getting ready for a cracking Easter break are 18-month-old Ivar Killeen and his Mum Katie Black from Ennis, Co. Clare

Photo by Arthur Ellis

lSCHOOL BANDS: Freya Stack and Chloe Hadnett, Milford National School, Limerick

Photo by Eamon Ward

Council paid €8m to acquire of land adjacent to Cliffs of

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

EXCLUSIVE

MORE THAN €8m was spent by Clare County Council on two sites adjacent to the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre.

An audit committee report from 2023 published this week has revealed that the local authority paid an eye-watering €8m two years ago to acquire two separate sites next to the iconic tourism landmark in North Clare.

Located in the parish of Liscannor, the sites were owned by two local farmers and were situated north and south of the Cliffs of Moher visitor centre. Two years later, issues relating to planning and a right of way have yet to be resolved on the lands. The estimated area of the two pieces of land combined is 55 acres.

In the external auditors report, it is noted, “The Council purchased two separate sites at the Cliffs of Moher at a cost of over €8m including associated costs. These purchases were supported by independent valuations which were based on ‘special interest’ to the Council and therefore constituted paying a higher than market value. The Council also agreed to pay the vendors costs which exceeded €200,000. At the time of audit, there are issues in relation to planning and right of way that still need to be resolved”.

Interim Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Dr Carmel Kirby in a written response to the auditor stated, “The Cliffs of Moher Experience is Ireland’s most visited natural attraction offering a world-class visitor experience and welcomes visitoros in a safe and informative manner while adhering to best practices in the conservation of its environs as a Special Protection Area (SPA) under Irish & EU legislation.

“The purchase of the sites referenced above was considered key in the context of the successful implementation of the Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040 and came about after fifty years of pursuing this

lNEW LAND: Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre

objective to protect and preserve the land adjacent to the Cliffs of Moher. This objective is supported by policies of Clare County Council and National Government which aim to protect the natural environment and biodiversity of the lands adjacent to the Cliffs of Moher. The Council is committed to ensuring best practice and value for money is achieved in the purchase of lands in line with the objectives set out in the Cliffs of Moher Strategy 2040”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Shane Tal-

ty (FF) said, “I was aware that it would have been a strategic target and I was aware the lands were acquired but I was not aware of the cost and I didn’t know the final costs until we received this report. I am very disappointed and surprised that we did not get a briefing on the deals as they were being done which at this stage were done over two years ago and we are only receiving the information”.

According to the Lahinch representative, there is an onus on the Council to become more transparent. “I’d like to see more trans-

parency and openness going forward, there were other issues highlighted in the auditors report which suggested other deals had incomplete files and were difficult in sourcing the information. We want to see proper governance and procedure in Clare County Council, we’re relying on numbers being presented to us rather than trying to find the information”.

Paying such sums are sure to heighten tensions between the Council and the thirty six landowners on the Cliffs of Moher Coastal

Audit raises questions of Council’s governance

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GOVERNANCE standards of Clare County Council have come under scrutiny over the manner in which a deal to purchase land in Bunratty was carried out.

An external audit of Clare County Council has found difficulties with securing information regarding an almost €1m deal in Bunratty both with land registry issues and the inability of the local authority to maintain a complete file.

As part of the transfer of Shannon Heritage sites to Clare County Council, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park now falls under the management of the local authority.

A Local Government Audit re -

port from 2023 on Clare County Council which was released this week has raised concerns which have been amplified by elected members regarding the manner in which the local authority has conducted its business on some deals.

Regarding two land purchases in Bunratty, the external auditor highlighted, “it proved challenging and time consuming to obtain all the necessary information as a complete file was not maintained”.

In the report, the external auditor stated that the Council paid €62,000 in stamp duty in 2023 to execute a call option to purchase land at Bunratty. “The Council accrued €947k in the capital account however, at the date of this report, land registry issues have been cit -

ed for the deal not closing”. According to the external auditor, the County Council will need to consider whether its property unit is capable of managing tourism acquisitions. “Given the significant expenditure on these land purchases substantial improvements are necessary in this directorate and consideration should be given by management as to whether tourism acquisitions should come under the remit of the property unit of the Council”.

Former Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling in a written response to these comments detailed, “As part of the transfer of the Shannon Heritage functions to Clare County Council from the Shannon Airport Group,

the Council inserted a purchase op agreement for the additional lands surrounding Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

“The rationale was to protect the offering in Bunratty and prevent a speculative sale which could be detrimental to the tourist offering at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park. All matters in relation to the land purchase at Bunratty have now been resolved and the sale is now moving to closure.

“Clare County Council Tourism Directorate is committed to ensuring that system and processes are in place for all of its activity.

The function will be managed the Tourism Directorate lead with the support and guidance of the Property Unit of the Council as neces -

sary,” Dowling added. That a complete file was not maintained in the eyes of the external auditor is “a fairly damning indictment of how the organisation is doing its business,” remarked Cllr Shane Talty (FF). He said it was “difficult” for elected members as they were reliant on the external auditor to look back with the challenge of drilling into the detail and budget lines. “There is a theme running through the report which queries governance,” the Lahinch representative commented. “There are significant sums of expenditure that we’re only hearing about in a historic sense”.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Pat

two pieces Moher

Walk when negotiations on future management and operation of the trail commence.

In the Tobin report released last week on the future management of the Cliff walk, the consultants recommend that the local authority take over full ownership of the 18km trail by exploring all options including long-term leases and acquiring the land by compulsory purchase order (CPO) if necessary. Landowners and farmers in North Clare have been greatly

irked by the mention of CPO in the report. Atmosphere regarding the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk will become more tense as a result of the €8m land deal, Cllr Talty acknowledged. “It will heighten the atmosphere and tension around the negotiations and future management of the walks. When it settles down, it will still leave the same feeling and negotiations will have to happen”.

following Bunratty deal

Hayes noted there were “substantial issues” for the local authority regarding land purchases at Bunratty and the Cliffs of Moher.

“You’d have to read the report from the auditor to get their views on it,” he said. “It doesn’t add to good communications with items brought up this year and for 2023,” the Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District added.

Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) felt the Council’s top table had a duty to inform elected members when they were acquiring land. “I understand the Executive doesn’t have to let us know they are purchasing a piece of land but it might be nice to know if they let us know when a deal is done rather than hearing it at a hurling match, at mass or the pub so they we are letting the people know not the other way around”.

Former Chief Executive of the Council,

Pat Dowling reminded councillors that they were advised following the local elections that governance guidelines were to be formed on all of the Council’s entities, “that has started, we’ll be putting a report before members when it is drafted”. She added, “I can assure members and the public that there is good governance across Clare County Council and all its directorates, there is always room for improvement”. She said every local authority has “an awful lot of work to be done” to “to accurately register every single property that we own”.

Head of Finance, Noeleen Fitzgerald told the meeting there was no time delays in providing the external audit from 2023, “it was finalised late last year”.

Miltown Malbay setting the example for others to follow with suicide remembrance bench

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MILTOWN MALBAY’s lead in constructing a remembrance bench for loved ones lost to suicide can be replicated all across the county.

Nestled in the church car park of Miltown Malbay since September 2023 is a remembrance bench for individuals who died by suicide, it serves as a place for loved ones to sit, reflect and remember.

Adorned in the Miltown Malbay colours of claret and gold mixed with the saffron and blue of Clare, the bench also carries the message ‘may you stay forever young’ with a tree of hope located beside it.

Cathy Sexton of Church St, Miltown Malbay who died in May 2023 was the driving force behind the arrival of the bench to West Clare. She and her son Fionn were inspired by a trip to the town park in Charleville, Co Cork when they saw a remembrance bench which had been installed by the Charleville Suicide Remembrance Group, a group founded by Margaret O’Callaghan who lost her own son to suicide in the early 1990s. In July 2015, Cathy lost her son Tadhg to suicide so when she saw the Charleville bench, she knew it was worth getting a Miltown Malbay equivalent. That trip to Cork was in March 2020.

Charleville Suicide Remembrance Group raised enough funds through private donations and collections to get twenty benches and twenty trees, they had one left when Cathy’s partner Pearse Connolly made con-

tact to try get one to Miltown Malbay. “She had one left and gave me that one, I went up on the Sunday to collect it, the following Wednesday the Taoiseach was speaking in

Washington to say we were going into a lockdown so for three years this bench was in my shed, Cathy was always adamant that we get this done,” he recalled.

Support of Clare County Council through senior executive officer John O’Malley and foreman Martin Griffin was key to helping Cathy’s wish become a reality, Pearse noted. “I wanted the Council to do it because I knew it would be done right, he made sure it was under the light so if anyone is here at night time it will be seen. The late Cathy Sexton was the driving force, this was her favourite spot and she used to sit at one of the benches here”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Pearse outlined that parishes across the county were more than capable of getting their own bench. “If any other parish wanted to do it, they can do it in their town’s colours and the Clare colours on another side, the local men’s shed group could donate a bench, if they were in touch with the Council and that is the most important because they would have the land, they have the expertise and put all of this down, if the Council do it then it is done right”.

Easter Monday, April 21st

FROM 11AM - 5:00PM

Pearse recalled, “Cathy was actually in Milford Hospice when I got the phone call from the foreman Martin Griffin to tell me ‘we’d have that job done by August’. Cathy was in the bed and I told her Martin said it would be done by August, she said ‘I won’t be here but you make sure it is done’. Fr Donagh O’Meara came over to bless it and a good crowd turned up, we had a bit of music in the background with Ann Rynne and Fionn Sexton playing, there was a great buzz”.

Cathy would be very pleased with the bench, he felt. “She would love it, that was her dream, it was nothing to do with me really, I just made a few phone calls, she drove it, she lost her son Tadhg and knew this would be ideal for Miltown. It has the tree of hope behind it which will grow eventually, it will keep growing, other trees have been planted in memory of loved ones”.

He continued, “I’d be driving up and down to work and I’d always throw my eye over this direction, there is always someone sitting here which means they have walked past two benches to sit here, someone sitting here generally means they have lost someone through suicide and they want to remember them”.

Suicide’s impact has been felt in every parish in Ireland, Pearse observed. “Every parish all around the country has been impacted by suicide, within Miltown Malbay since I came here twenty eight years ago there has been a lot of suicides, it is sad, a lot of young people and a lot of the suicides we don’t even know about”.

He said, “I think a lot of people in every parish will suddenly say this is a great idea, one little bench and it will help people out. It is a space out in the open, unfortunately a lot of young people are committing suicide, I see young people sitting here, I don’t know who they are remembering but they are remembering someone”.

Costs with such a project could be kept very low, the Charleville native maintained. “If the men’s shed they can do it with whatever donation they get, all I had to do was go to Charleville and collect it, Margaret wouldn’t take any payment, she had collected the money already, people could collect the money in their own parish but surely the men’s shed or some company could donate the bench”.

“It is for people to remember their loved ones, there is a lot of stigma attached to suicide, sometimes people don’t want to talk about it, when they see the bench it kind of opens them up that you know we can talk about this. We were planting the daffodils one day, a woman was sitting here and she told me about her husband committing suicide suddenly, she drove over from Ennis because she heard about the bench. I think every other parish in the county could try to get a bench,” he concluded.

Whatever you are going through, you don’t have to face it alone. Call Samaritans for free on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org for more information

lLOVED ONES: Suicide rememberance bench, Miltown Malbay

Regional News

Ennis

Bilingual Ennis musician to release debut album

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

AS PART of the ‘Ceol sa Séipéal’ recital series at this year’s Consairtín Festival, bilingual singer-songwriter Emer O’Flaherty will officially release her long-awaited debut album, ‘Go dtí seo’, on April 25th at St Columba’s Church, Bindon Street, Ennis.

Hailing from Ennis, O’Flaherty has been a familiar presence on the performance circuit for nearly two decades. Known for her rich musicality and bilingual artistry, this marks her first studio recording. The free launch event will feature a special guest performance by Inis Oírr musician Pádraig Jack, acclaimed for his album ‘Making Sand’.

A celebrated artist, O’Flaherty has performed at the Edinburgh and Prague Fringe Festivals and garnered numerous awards at Oireachtas na Gaeilge for both traditional and contemporary singing. She also won national and interna-

Bruised Orange to bring the music of John Prine to glór

Bruised Orange, Ireland’s premier John Prine tribute band, are set to take the stage at glór, Ennis on Saturday, May 3rd for what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of one of America’s most beloved songwriters.

Doors open at 7.30pm, with the show starting at 8pm. Admission is €25, and early booking is advised.

Over the past three years, Bruised Orange has captivated audiences across Ireland and the United States with their faithful and heartfelt renditions of Prine’s music. Their extensive touring history includes sold-out performances at venues such as Cork Opera House, Theatre Royal Waterford, The Marketplace Theatre Armagh, Solstice Arts Centre, and the Town Hall Theatre Galway. The band was recently named Irish Country Tribute Band of the Year by Keltic Country TV.

Led by Michael ‘Mike Mack’ McGarry on guitar and vocals, the five-piece ensemble brings together some of Ireland’s most experienced musicians: Anthony ‘Toby’ Cregan (lead guitar, vocals), Derek Matthews (bass), Steve Milne (keyboards), and Shay Carry (percussion). Together, they deliver an authentic live John Prine experience, focusing on his early work from his 1971 debut album through to the early 2000s, including his iconic duets with country legends such as Iris DeMent.

Frontman McGarry captures Prine’s vocal tone with remarkable accuracy, channeling his twang, drawl, and signature storytelling

style. Cregan’s lead guitar work draws comparisons to Jason Wilber, Prine’s longtime collaborator, while Matthews’ upright bass playing mirrors that of Prine’s bassist Dave Jacques. Carry, a veteran of Ireland’s country scene, provides a steady rhythm section, and Milne—former musical director and pianist for Daniel O’Donnell—adds depth with his decades of global touring experience.

John Prine, who passed away in 2020 due to COVID-19 complications, is remembered as a masterful songwriter whose work ranged from humorous reflections on everyday life to poignant social commentary. He was a major influence on artists like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, and Roger Waters. Dylan once said, “Prine’s stuff is pure Proustian existentialism… and he writes beautiful songs.”

Fans can expect to hear all the classics, from *Sam Stone* and *Donald and Lydia* to other timeless tracks that showcase Prine’s wit, warmth, and wisdom. Whether funny or heartbreaking, Prine’s songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world—and Bruised Orange promises to honour that legacy with passion and precision.

For an evening of powerful music, heartfelt stories, and a true tribute to an icon, Bruised Orange at glór is a must-see event.

tional Pan Celtic contests alongside Paddy Mulcahy and Angelo Heart with the song ‘Taibhse’, which later featured in An Taibhdhearc’s national tour and the RTÉ/BBC series ‘Cosán an Cheoil’.

Deeply committed to the Irish language, O’Flaherty believes in the power of music to reveal the beauty and complexity of Gaeilge. For the past three years, she has toured with the ‘Dúchas agus Dóchas’ collective under Diarmuid de Faoite, performing traditional Clare songs.

A multi-instrumentalist, she plays piano, flute, whistles, and concertina, and is widely sought after as an accompanist.

Her recent composition, ‘Réaltbhuíonta – Constellations’, a tribute to the Ennis night sky, premiered at glór in December 2024 and featured a chamber ensemble including Etain McCooey (oboe), Róisín McMullin (violin), and Rafael Marengo (cello).

‘Go dtí seo’, recorded live in her living room by Quentin Cooper and mastered by Jack Talty, features

ten tracks that trace O’Flaherty’s musical journey. Collaborating artists include Edel Vaughan (voice, flute, whistle), Therese McInerney (fiddle), Gráinne Cotter (fiddle), Philip Fogarty (accordion), Paddy Mulcahy (bass), and Angelo Heart (drums).

The album blends sean-nós traditions with original compositions, including nature-inspired songs like ‘Grian Dubh’ (celebrating murmurations), *Ag gearradh romham* (a bird singing before the city’s noise), and *Stáisiún Traenach* (observations at a train station). It also features two haunting slow airs: ‘Neilí Bheag’ and ‘Suantraí’, a lullaby.

lGO DTí SEO: Album art for Emer O’Flaherty’s debut album. Album art by by Ana Colomer

lDIVE IN: Members of Ennis Sub Aqua Club braved the cold waters of the River Fergus last weekend to take part in the annual annual river clean in associate with Ennis Tidy Towns. The group was helped by Alan O Sullivan a council truck driver who was massive help on dry land haulage.

Photographed: Alan O Sullivan, Angela Floyd, Brid Deely, Sinead Mortell, Mary Cahir, Eamon Whelan, Eugene Morrisroe, Gerry Gilroy, Matt Ryan, John Keane, Tom Barrett, John Staunton, Tom Micks, Liam Kinsella

Festival of Finn returns to Corofin for May bank holiday weekend

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

NORTH Clare’s much-loved Festival of Finn is set to return this May Bank Holiday weekend, bringing four days of excitement, creativity and community spirit to the scenic village of Corofin.

Running from Thursday, May 1 to Monday, May 5, this year’s festival promises to be one of the most memorable yet, with a packed programme that includes family-friendly fun, award-winning drama, historical talks, and the always-entertaining World Stone Throwing Championships.

Returning favourites include the whimsical fancy dress parade, the family-fun afternoon “Lark at the Lake”, and of course, the legendary stone throwing competition, which kicks off at Fair Lane on Sunday, May 4 at 4 p.m. Contestants will once again try their luck (and aim) at hitting the bottle, while last year’s champions prepare to defend their

titles.

One of this year’s major highlights is the performance of ‘The Weir’ by the Corofin Dramatic Society. Fresh from making it to the All-Ireland Open Finals – one of just nine productions nationwide – the group will perform their award-winning play at the Corofin Community Hall on Sunday, May 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets and further information are available at [corofindrama.com](https://corofindrama. com).

The festival has something for everyone, especially families and children. On Saturday, May 3 at 11 a.m., Bernardo the Magician will delight young audiences with a funfilled morning of magic and laughter at the Corofin Community Hall (€5 per child, parents go free).

On Sunday, May 4 at 2:30 p.m., storyteller Ruth Marshall brings the spirit of Bealtaine to life with a special storytelling and craft session for kids. The event is free, but space is limited. Reserve spots through

eventbrite.

Monday, May 5 sees the grand parade take to the streets at 12:30 p.m., with this year’s theme, “Planet Corofin”, inviting creative costumes with cosmic or environmental flair. The parade is followed at 2 p.m.

by the Lark at the Lake at Lake Inchiquin, featuring music, games, face painting, balloon modeling, a dog show, barbecue and more.

Kicking off the weekend on Thursday, May 1 is a special evening with acclaimed photographer

Clare student secures runner-up EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award

A student from Mary Immaculate Secondary School in Lisdoonvarna, County Clare has taken home the second place EirGrid Cleaner Climate Award following their success at the SciFest@College 2025 regional competition at TUS Moylish in Limerick.

Students from schools across Clare, Limerick and neighbouring counties came together with their second-level student peers and teachers to compete in the STEM fair exhibiting projects covering a broad range of topics and disciplines from chemistry and sport science to renewable energy and technology.

Third year student, Liam Hynes impressed judges with his project focused on investigating the effects of different temperatures and light intensity on the bleaching of Corallina officinalis. His submission was chosen from over 100 projects on show at the college campus event.

SciFest@College is a programme of STEM fairs for second-level students, taking place in 16 regional colleges across Ireland. For two decades SciFest has been a platform for second-level students to showcase their creativity, innovation and research skills in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

As a partner in SciFest, EirGrid, the operator and developer of Ireland electricity system, delivers the Cleaner Climate Award as recognition of the critical role young people play in shaping a sustainable future.

The prize is awarded to the student or team whose project demonstrates both technical excellence and a tangible positive impact to energy and environmental sustainability.

Congratulating the winning entrants on his successful project, Catherine Daly, Sustainabil-

ity Programme Manager at EirGrid, said: “For twenty years SciFest has been at the heart of inspiring innovation from secondary level students, and we are incredibly proud to continue to support this endeavour. As we work to ensure eighty percent of Ireland’s electricity comes from renewable sources, as per Government targets, we recognise the importance of fostering a future generation of problem solvers and critical thinkers, to transition to a clean, renewable energy grid.

“EirGrid is playing a central role in achieving Ireland’s climate ambitions and the level of engagement from students at TUS Moylish today showed the interest surrounding the environment and renewable energy. Congratulations to Liam on his award.”

and Corofin native Kenneth O’Halloran. His work has graced the pages of *The New York Times*, *Time Magazine*, *Le Monde*, and *Paris Match*. He will speak about his career and travels at 8:30 p.m. in Corofin Community Hall, following a wine and cheese reception at 7:45 p.m. The event is presented by Cumann Staire is Duchais Chora Finne.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can also enjoy village walks, a community market, live music, a trivia night, a film screening, and book readings.

Full festival details are available on Facebook (Visit Corofin and the Festival of Finn) and Instagram (@festivaloffinn), and brochures with the complete schedule can be picked up in outlets throughout Corofin.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or a first-time guest, the Festival of Finn is a celebration not to be missed.

l CLIFFS OF MOHER CYCLE CHALLENGE: Nearly 1,000 cyclists took part in the “Cliffs of Moher Cycle Challenge” last weekend. The 12th installment of the annual event generated around €40,000 for local charities. The mild weather and beautiful scenery of North Clare made for an enjoyable experience for all cyclists and approximately 140 volunteers.

Photographed Conrad McCullagh from Dysart reaching the top of Corkskrew Hill

Photo by Brendan Cusack

lEIRGRID: Liam Hynes pictured with Dr Daniel Walsh, Head of Department, Faculty of Applied Sciences and Technology, TUS Moylish

lFESTIVAL OF FINN: Corofin parade 2024

North Clare

Midwest Renewable Energy make solar installations easy from East Clare HQ

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

A PAIR of solar energy experts from East Clare are leading the charge to turn homes in the county green.

Shane Brett & Gerard McNamara, co-owners of Midwest Renewables, set up their company in Bodyke one year ago and specialise in residential, farm and small commercial solar installations having spotted a gap in the market in East Clare.

Offering their services nationwide, the pair have more than 10 years’ experience between them in the solar industry and have completed a number of significant projects since establishing Midwest Renewables, including a solar installation at Clareabbey, Clare GAA’s headquarters.

Affiliated with Finance Ireland, customers of Midwest Renewables can seamlessly apply for finance options starting at six per cent, while Shane and Gerard go the extra mile to ease the financial burden on their clients.

Bodyke native Gerard explains, “There’s an SEAI grant of €1,800 available to residential customers so after we agree a price, we subtract the grant off the price and claim the grant ourselves. This way, the customer doesn’t need to wait around for their payment from SEAI, we do that. We find that is a good seller, most companies don’t offer that so you won’t be waiting six, eight, or 10 weeks for your grant payment –we have it given to them already.”

Shane adds, “We also partner with Finance Ireland so anyone that’s looking to install solar, they can apply to Finance Ireland for a loan through us. We have a link on our website through which they can apply.”

Shane and Ger are both qualified electricians and offer the customer peace of mind by personally overseeing all solar projects.

Ger tells The Clare Echo that a solar installation is a seamless process from start to finish.

“Our quotations are free. Using a customer’s Eircode, we can view the roof of their home to help with job specs and quotations however most of the time we’ll make an appointment to make a site visit. Once a job has been specified, the customer pays a 50 per cent deposit and

l Mid West Renewables directors Shane Brett & Gerard McNamara; (bottom) the pair preparing an installation and (right) the final product

balance on completion.”

Shane, originally from Feakle but living in Bodyke with his family, has almost a decade of experience in the industry having worked with large-scale solar companies such as PV Generation in Cork and JFW in Galway.

He explains that the investment of a solar installation will be repaid to the customer within 4-5 years, significantly reducing the customer’s energy costs in the long-term. He advises, “The better a system is designed to match your usage, the quicker the payback. I always tell the customer on the first day, fit as many panels as you can as you’ll never get it as cheap as you do on Day 1 as only the first installation for a homeowner is VAT-free.”

Shane adds that batteries are

advisable for solar installations as customers can store electricity purchased during the night at a lower rate, a process called ‘load shifting’.

However, if a battery proves cost-prohibitive to the customer, every system is battery ready for installation at a later date. Customers who produce excess electricity can sell back to the grid to generate extra savings on their bills.

Midwest Renewables offer a two-year warranty on their systems and guarantee a 48-hour call-back service.

Get in contact with Midwest Renewables by calling 087 052 8870 or visit https://www.midwestrenewableenergy.ie/.

Shannon

Oireachtas members give commitment to enhance advocacy for Shannon Airport

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MEMBERS of the cross-party Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group have issued a commitment to advocate for the International Airport’s use at every opportunity.

On Monday, the first meeting of the re-established Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group took place at Shannon Airport. CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine described the meeting as “positive”. TDs and Senators from Clare, Limerick, Tipperary and Galway attended the engagement. There are twenty four members on the group.

Speaking following the meeting, Ms Considine outlined, “We were pleased to meet with Oireachtas members who have pledged their support for Shannon Airport as a crucial national asset. The airport is vital for business travellers, tourists, and cargo. In today’s globalised economy, connectivity and resilience are paramount, and strengthening regional airports is essential to build resilience and avoid over-dependence on one airport”.

Chair of the Oireachtas Group, Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) commented, “We are committed to advocating at every opportunity for the use of Shannon Airport and for policies that recognise the strategic importance of Shannon and promote balanced regional development”.

lSHANNON AIPORT: Pictured at Shannon Airport ahead of the first meeting of the newly re-established Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group are L-R: Senator Louis O’Hara, Kieran O’Donnell TD, Minister of State at the Department of Health and at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Senator Anne Rabbitte, Joe Cooney TD, Senator Maria Byrne, Ryan O’Meara TD, Rachael Leahy , Company Secretary and Head of Legal for The Shannon Airport Group, Cathal Crowe TD and Chair of The Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group, Mary Considine, CEO The Shannon Airport Group, Caroline Kelleher, Director of Public Affairs, The Shannon Airport Group, Senator Dee Ryan, Timmy Dooley TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, Donna McGettigan TD, Conor Sheehan TD, Maurice Quinlivan TD and Richard O’Donoghue TD.

He continued, “Strengthening Shannon Airport is crucial for building resilience in Ireland’s air travel infrastructure and promoting balanced regional development. A priority of the Group is for an immediate review of National Aviation Policy and to seek continued State funding under the Regional Airports Programme”.

Considine added, “We welcome the commitment from Oireachtas members to advocate for policy changes that promote the aviation sector in Shannon, further the cause of Shannon Airport, and enhance Ireland’s resilience. This support is of particular importance”.

“We appreciate their backing as we continue to advocate for a new National Aviation Policy that considers the country as a whole and its considerable underused capacity to ensure the effective use of state assets like Shannon Airport. We also call for the permanent inclusion of Shannon Airport in the Regional Airports Programme. The importance of improved direct public transport services to Shannon Airport, including bus and rail connections will be crucial, and a significant increase in funding for the Tourism Ireland Regional Co-operative Marketing Support Scheme to bolster regional tourism is urgently required.”

Reconfigured Airport Oireachtas group need to tackle Shannon’s lack of connectivity to mainland Europe

by Páraic McMahon

LACK OF connectivity from Shannon Airport needs to be a consideration of the reconfigured Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group.

Elected members of Clare County Council have stressed the need for Shannon Airport to fight its own cause and secure a fairer share of aviation traffic into the country.

In a proposal before Monday’s meeting of the local authority, Cllr David Griffin (FF) urged the Council to support the reconfigured Oireachtas Group and to “engage proactively with the group and senior airport management to ensure that Shannon and the wider midwest region benefits from growth in the aviation sector in years to come”.

Acting Director of Services for Economic Development, Seán Lenihan welcomed the establishment of the group which is chaired by Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF). “A strong and vibrant Shannon Airport is vital not only for interna-

tional connectivity but also for job creation, tourism, investment and balanced regional development”.

He said the Council was committed “to engaging proactively” with the group and maintaining “the good relationship we have with senior airport management”.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting, Cllr Griffin noted that Shannon Airport was “going well” currently by recording its highest level of passengers since 2019. “This group is important to have established and active, the development of Shannon Airport and the Mid-West region needs to be an a-political matter”. He suggested that either members of the group or the CEO of Shannon Airport Group come before the Council to brief them on what the local authority could do to help market the Airport. He said Dublin’s dominance of aviation with 85% of traffic in the country landing in the capital is a worry when the disruption caused by the Heathrow fire is considered. He felt the group could consider the “lack

of connectivity to mainland Europe”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) noted, “we have an Oireachtas group to review and look at how to protect Shannon, we all feel we’re fighting against Dublin, we need to highlight and get that extra funding to improve access to the airport for rail and transport service”. He said Shannon had a “significant opportunity” to “be a real driver of economic activity, if we get people to come to Shannon, we need to get them to west coast of Clare”. Shannon’s target needs to be maximising passengers, said Cllr Michael Shannon (FF). “The airport is the gateway to the North Atlantic, there five flights a day leaving Shannon to various points of North America, they are at 90% capacity or are full”. He added, “I am greatly encouraged by Michael O’Leary and Ryanair’s confidence in the Airport, he has the ability to make it work, I’d love to see the same confidence from other air-

lines like Airlingus”.

“Has the Airport been renamed,” questioned Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). “I thought it was Shannon International Airport,” she said. “I agree it is good to see passenger numbers going up but the connectivity is not good, due to my new role going to Brussels every two weeks now, I really enjoy the role but I have to go from Dublin every time,” she outlined.

US travellers to Ireland each year are recording a “huge drop off”, the Quin native flagged. “We need to build on good connectivity to Europe going forward,” she said.

“Progress in Shannon has been done by Shannon, it hasn’t been done by complaining in Dublin,” commented Cllr Michael Begley (IND). “We’ve got to do this on our own, we can do it and have been doing it very successfully,” he added. Begley referred to his recent proposal to investigate the potential of the Glider system in Belfast as an alternative to the Shannon rail link.

Responding to comments by Colleran Molloy, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) remarked, “it went so far backwards that it is now considered a regional airport”. He said, “Shannon is the number one economic driver in this county, if we ever lose further connectivity if affects everything in the county from West to the Limerick border”. Separation from the daa made Dublin Airport a “direct competitor” of Shannon’s, he believed.

According to Cllr Pat O’Gorman, Mary Considine and her team in Shannon are “doing a trojan job”. He stated, “aviation policy is one thing we have a problem with, 85% of flights are going into Dublin, we’re only looking for five or six percent extra from that and Shannon would double in size, we’ve the car parking and access to the motorway, it is a travel friendly airport, we only want a fair slice of the cake, they’re fighting in Dublin about the cap but if we got five percent more here it would make their job easier”.

Olympian effort by Ballinasloe Marathon Kids

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

IRISH Olympian David Gillick marked the finale of the Ballinasloe Marathon Kids by joining 250 primary school children from the East Galway town in the final leg of their journey.

David Gillick, who competed in the 400 metres and 4×400 metres relay at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, led the Marathon Kids participants through a series of exercises and stretches before they embarked on the final run of the series at the Dunlo Running Track on Thursday.

Funded through the Ballinasloe Community Sports Hub under the Sport Ireland Dormant Account Fund, the Marathon Kids programme targets fifth and sixth class students who learn the health benefits of physical activity and perform four running sessions per week.

The children ran 26.2 miles over the course of the eight-week programme to complete their first marathon. Speaking following the event, Gillick said, “It is fantastic to see so many young people on the track, having fun, and being active. I hope this event has inspired them to keep running and to stay active in the years to come”.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, noted the importance of encouraging young people to get involved in physical activity and develop a healthy lifestyle. Events like Marathon Kids are a great way to do this, and I’m delighted to see so

Spaces for biodiversity competition returns in Galway

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SPACES for Biodiversity Competition will return for a second year, Galway City Council have announced. Promotion of biodiversity friendly private gardens across the city, as well as public areas is the focus of the competition. The Spaces for Biodiversity Competition seeks to highlight the importance of small-scale spaces that contribute to environmental sustainability and support the vital work of pollinators.

This year, the competition has expanded to include a dedicated School’s Category, allowing schools throughout the city to showcase their creative and innovative efforts to promote biodiversity and create pollinator-friendly spaces. The competition encourages the public to look at areas in and around the city, from residential gardens to public spaces, where biodiversity can thrive.

Participants are encouraged to take creative and innovative approaches to even small spaces, with a focus on food, shelter, and safety for pollinating insects such as bees and butterflies.

The competition winners will be invited to an award night in October where there will be a prize for first place, vouchers, framed certificates and other goodies. Entries are open to all areas of Galway City, including residential properties, schools, community groups, and businesses. It provides an excellent opportunity to celebrate the creativity of Galway’s residents while also encouraging sustainable environmental practices.

Fergal Cushen, Environmental Awareness Officer for Galway City Council, commented, “Collectively, private gardens comprise a huge area in cities and present fantastic opportunities for ‘niches for nature’—vital habitat connectivity for wildlife throughout the city.

We’re not looking for pristine spaces, but those that are thoughtfully maintained with consideration for biodiversity, no matter how small the area may be”.

The inaugural competition last year showcased a wonderful variety of creative, wildlife-friendly spaces, with

participants demonstrating immense pride in their efforts to enhance biodiversity in Galway. The competition aims to raise awareness of the need to protect and enhance biodiversity in urban spaces, in alignment with both national and local Biodiversity Action Plans.

many young people taking part in Galway,” he said. “The event was a huge success with children and teachers praising the initiative and the opportunity it provided for young people to stay active and healthy”.

Cllr Martina Kinane (FF), Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, commented, “It is truly inspiring to see these young children pushing themselves to achieve such a great goal. The Marathon Kids event promotes not only physical activity but also discipline and perseverance, which are values that will serve these children well in all aspects of their lives”.

Cllr Mike Cubbard (IND), Chairperson of Galway Sports Partnership noted, “There was a positive atmosphere and a great sense of achievement at the event.”

Andrew McBride, Coordinator of Galway Sports Partnership, stated, “Galway Sports Partnership was delighted to facilitate this programme and give primary school children the opportunity to keep active. We would like to thank all the teachers for their support and congratulate the children on their achievement of running 26.2 miles over the last eight weeks”.

The children who participated in Ballinasloe Marathon Kids were drawn from four local schools, namely Scoil Uí Cheithearnaigh, Newtown National School, Scoil an Chroí Naofa, and Creagh National School. Information on all Galway Sports Partnership activities can be found at www.galwayactive.ie.

New publication traces history of Gort’s name

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GORT’s history will be explored and celebrated at a book launch next Friday.

On Friday April 24th, the new publication ‘Gort inse Guaire: what’s in a name’ will be launched at Sullivan’s Hotel at 19:30.

Historian Rory O’Shaughnessy will lead the event which tracing the origins of the town’s name from King Guaire’s stronghold to the present day Barracks site.

The launch of the book is Heritage Keepers initiative with Gort Tidy Town

lMARATHON KIDS: Former Irish Olympian David Gillick pictured at the completion of the Ballinasloe Marathon Kids series. Photo by: Hany Marzouk

l Illustration by John Murphy

Slimming World members generate thousands of euros for charity

SUPER SLIMMERS in Ennis, Newmarket, Kilrush, Shannon, Killaloe and Ennistymon have raised over €21,600 for the Irish Cancer Society by donating the clothes they slimmed out of.

The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw with the Irish Cancer Society is an annual event which takes place in Slimming World groups across Ireland.

Slimming World consultant Louise McDermot, who runs groups in Newmarket on Fergus and Kilrush, says she’s proud of how her members came together to support the charity as well as celebrating how far they’ve come on their own weight loss journeys. Pamela Vaugan, Slimming World consultant in the West County Hotel Ennis and Ennistymon agrees.

“Every week I’m inspired by my members and their dedication and determination to achieve their weight loss goals. They’re just as enthusiastic when it comes

to getting involved in events such as The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw too. I was bowled over by how many bags they filled with clothes that they’ve slimmed out of to raise money for such an important charity!”

Martina Nash who runs a group in the CBS Primary school explained as well as raising funds for the Irish Cancer Society, the aim of the event is also to raise awareness of how maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing some types of cancer.

Tarah Lenihan who runs groups in the west county hotel Ennis and Shannon and says: “Being overweight doesn’t necessarily mean that a person will develop cancer, but we know that losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help prevent a number of health conditions, including some types of cancer. The work that the Irish Cancer Society does to help those affected by cancer is vital. I’m so proud of my members for their pas-

sion towards this fundraising event as I know that their contributions will help the charity continue its life-saving research.”

of group support, a generous

flexible eating plan, a diet high in fibre, fruit and vegetables, and an incremental phys ical activity programme, is

an evidence-based, effective way to lose weight, and stay slim for life helping members reduce their risk of developing cancer by losing weight and getting support to maintain a healthy weight and this event is a great way for our members to remind themselves of just how far they have come.

Last year, Slimming World raised €800,000.00 in Ireland for The Irish Cancer Society through The Big Slimming World Clothes Throw and are aiming to make this year even bigger

Brendan Nash who runs a group in Killaloe makes the point that Slimming World’s powerful combination

lSUPER SLIMMERS: Slimming World campaing in Irish Cancer Society Charity Shop window [inset image: Slimming World consultants Louise McDermot Tarah Lenihan]

Thought for the weekThe cross calls to us to be people of hope

Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

EASTER, for me, isn’t just about Easter eggs and Easter bunny’s. Don’t get me wrong, I do love a chocolate Easter egg, but it is also a time that holds a deeper meaning, one of renewal, hope, and reflection.

As I take a moment to think about what Easter really means to me, I realise it’s also more than just a religious holiday; it’s a time to reconnect with myself and the world around me.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week and as Easter Sunday approaches, we need to acknowledge that we are doing our best, from under the weight of all that’s wearing us down. We need now to turn our eyes and gaze to Jesus. Think of Him on his Cross, overwhelmed physically, emotionally, spiritually and totally beaten. Think of Him with His eyes focused upward, to the ultimate goal.

Jesus is a perfect example of what to do when we feel beaten and bruised. It is a matter of fact that most of us are stuck, whether it be with a particular sin, difficulties in the Spiritual Life, or difficulties in the physical day-to-day life; and we sometimes lose hope in all of this.

The events of Holy Week teach us that there is always hope! The Cross is truly the throne of Love, Mercy and Hope. Without the action of Good Friday there could be no Easter Sunday and all that it brings. We are a people of the Resurrection, but for every Easter there has to be a Calvary. Our faith, our hope and our salvation rest on the events of this week. So, if grace abounds, surely it abounds more abundantly during this most Holy of weeks. May we unite ourselves more closely with the crucified and Risen Lord over these days. May the Cross be our protection and blessing, and may the Resurrection be our new life, love and hope. And as we move towards Easter Sunday, let us try to remember all that Jesus went through.

Beannachtaí na cásca oraibh/ Happy Easter

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

Dia dhaoibh a Chairde. Tá súil agam go bhfuil sibh uilig go maith / Hi everybody. I hope you are all well.

Ní fada anois go mbeidh ‘cead’ agaibh milseáin a ithe aríst! / It won’t be long now until you’re allowed to eat sweets again!

Is gearr go mbeidh Coinín na Cásca ag fágáil uibheachaí Cásca i bhfolach ar fud na háite do na gasúir / The Easter Bunny will be here soon leaving Easter eggs hidden all over the place for the kids.

Coinnigí súil amach don ghrian maidin Domhnach Cásca mar go ndeirtear go mbíonn sí ag damhsa sa spéir an mhaidin sin! / Keep an eye out for the sun on Easter Sunday morning as they say it dances in the sky!

Ach ná breathnaigí díreach uirthi! / But don’t look directly at it!

Imeachtaí/Events:

lSIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am, chuile Dé Domhnaigh lCILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar lLUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach lClare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM lCILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm lINIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ,

chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Máirt ag Zest 11am, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), Dé hAoine The Market Bar 11am, agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. lLUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389. lAN SCAIRBH – ‘Lón i nGaeilge’, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé ‘An Gáirdín’, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

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

Embrace the season of colour this Easter weekend with Blossoms on the Go

APRIL is a month where there is lots happing in the world of gardening and in the gardens, so let’s embrace this month.

Cherry blossoms are in full bloom and the Magnolia are still looking well. The lilac tree is now starting to bud and it is heavenly scented when in bloom with a lovely purple flower. With all the spring flowers blossoming the colour in the garden centre is expanding everyday.

Although the days are getting warmer please be mindful of the temperature as they do drop a night time.

Perennials

Perennials are flowers that come back each year and some stay green in the winter other fully die back to the ground. The selection of perennials is varied and suits different conditions for example, shady spots can be tricky but with the right plants you can have a lovely variety of plant i.e., Hosta, Astilbe, Helleborus are some of the few that will do well in shade.

Rockery plants can include some herbs like thyme and flowers plants like Saxifraga

and Aubrieta again lots more to choose from, these are just some examples.

For long flowering colour throughout the summer the viola and the Geum which comes in a few colours’ orange have been popular at the moment.

The Erysimum the wall flower is also a long flowering perennial with a lovely scent.

If you have an area that’s been a bit on the tricky side hopefully some of the above suggestions have helped.

Shrubs

Shrubs have lots of functions are can do more than fill a gap some of the are low growing and some will grow into a nice shape but not get too large so for example heathers are low and will spread and have a nice selection of colour.

For a medium shrub pittosporum Tom thumb will grow a nice height and can be kept to a nice shape.

For a tall shrub with an ornamental value the Cordyline like Charlie Boy with its pink strip leaves are very striking to look at.

Grasses can add some movement to a gar-

den like the stipa pony tail it has height and a gentle flow in the breeze.

The summer bedding

When I fill pots, I like to have height and some pieces trailing to the front to fill in with bedding, for example a nice red geranium for the centre and trailing petunia and I use 6 pack petunia to add colour depending on the size of the pot.

There’s always plenty of work to do in the garden and the Easter weekend means we have an extra day in the garden.

Blossoms on the go Garden Centre will be open on Bank Holiday Monday 11 to 4 and closed on Easter Sunday to enjoy the Hunt for eggs.

Happy Easter everyone

To live in the present moment: what is that and what does that look like or feel like

OUR lives and our minds are so busy. Busy getting somewhere in our physical day with the believe that if we get so much done in one day then we will feel better in our minds.

Our thoughts are in loop, meaning we have the same thoughts today as yesterday and those are the same thoughts as the day before. We are conditioned by action and thought to be striving forward. While striving forward is positive and constructive, are we getting to the destination of achieving being anywhere in action or thought?

For years working, having a house to run and children with activities, I was always on treadmill of life in action and thought. I would constantl ask myself; ‘what else can I do now to have more time at the weekend?’ The chop chop of life, getting children to school, sports

gear, lunches, dinners, laundry, house work and family commitments.

We are distracted, preoccupied or absent minded. We can be dwelling on the past too much, if only I had my time over again. Perhaps worrying about the futurehow will everything work out? We become lost in our thought that takes us away from our current experience.

In mindfulness it is described as being unaware and unfocused.

“Wherever you are, be there totally”- Eckhart Tolle Eckhart Tolle has written a book on this very subject, the most popular being “The Power of Now”. His profound yet simple teaching has helped countless people around the world experience a state of vibrantly alive inner peace in their daily lives. His teaching focuses on the importance of the significance of presence, the awakened

state of consciousness, which transcends ego and discursive thinking.

Again, this all leads to mindfulness and awareness to become aware!

Aware of what does it mean to be present- being present means fully engaging with and experiencing the current moment without distractions or judgment. It involves focusing your attention on what’s happening right now, whether it’s a conversation, task or simply being mindful, not lost in thought about the past or future, but being grounded in the here and now. This can lead to deeper connections, better decision making and a sense of calm.

Pick a task like brushing your teeth, filling the dishwasher, driving, walking, having a conversation, listening to someone talk or whatever you decide it to be and make a decision for the

next week that you are going to be totally and completely in the moment when you are engaging with that task. Clear your mind just observe yourself, be totally immersed in the present moment. How might that feel? Try it. You might be surprised!

Being present feels like a deep sense of focus and clarity. It is as if all the noise of the past and future fades away and your attention is fully absorbed by the current moment. You feel a heightened awareness of your senses, what you see hear, smell and feel become more vivid. It can bring a sense of calm, peace and even joy, because you are not distracted or overwhelmed by anything outside of what’s directly in front of you. Time slows down and you become more attuned to your inner world and the world around you. It’s associated with the feeling of being grounded or centred.

Anything we try for the first time is not always simple, the truth of it is that like anything it is something we must learn but when we get a glimpse of being present, we want more of it. Life is truly a journey and not a destination. Some days are easier than others.

At the clinic one of the affirmations, I recommend is “I will go through this day feeling calm and ease, and I will notice small moments of joy.”

When we intend something into our day, we open up our awareness to see and feel it. To experience a moment might be someone asking you how was your day, or you may see two people holding hands or someone might smile at you. These small moments of joy perhaps are the essence of the present moment. Good Luck on your journeyBe present!

“The present moment is the gift, that’s why it’s called the present”

‘No Mow

May’ how you can help Ennis Tidy Towns conserve early season pollinators

NO MOW May is when you avoid mowing your lawn until June so that early season pollinators can have a temporary habitat and food source until more plants grow.

The bright yellow flowers of the common dandelion attract bees and other pollinators in spring where they feast on the nectar and pollen. Dandelions are like natures powerhouse, packed with essential nutrients that bees need to thrive.

The problem is, dandelions are more popular with pollinators than gardeners. Many gardeners look upon the dandelion only as an invasive, perennial weed, whilst pollinators no doubt see a most attractive and welcome food-stop!

By not mowing, you’re helping any wildlife that comes out early,

especially in its beginning life stages. This includes bees, butterflies, hoverflies, beetles, and other pollinators that need access to nectar. Just a section of un-mowed lawn can make a huge difference to these pollinators.

Besides not mowing lawns, the practice also applies to leaving flower beds alone. In the autumn you are encouraged to leave your leaves for overwintering insects and to nourish your garden. It can be tempting to clean it all up in the spring, but wait a little longer until temperatures warm up. No Mow May started as a way to help out pollinators. They need food sources early on in the season, and it can be difficult to find flower with nectar for our pollinators early

in the season.

No Mow May is an easy way for people to help out. You are encouraged to do nothing, leave the lawn mower in the shed! It doesn’t get much easier than that.

You can also increase awareness about helping out pollinators by letting neighbours know why you’re not mowing your lawn. Besides helping out pollinators, it is also better for your garden. Our winters are wet and cool, this results in a lot of moisture. When we step on or dig wet soil we compact it. The more compacted soil is, the less air there is. People don’t realize how essential air is for retaining water later on and providing aeration for healthy roots.

lNO MOW MAY: Twins , Taisiia Navrotska and Tymur Navrotskyi young volunteers with Ennis Tidy Towns

High Court judge warns that costs system “should not be viewed as a complete gravy train”

by Gordon Deegan

A High Court judge has warned that the costs system “should not be viewed as a complete gravy train” and that the system is already seriously imbalanced against private sector developers.

Mr Justice Richard Humphreys - who presides over the Planning and Environment Division of the High Court - made his comments in a costs judgement concerning a case where he has already ruled that a report error about a Leisler bat located in a barn outside Ennis is not sufficient to halt contentious plans for a new 200MW €1.2bn data centre campus.

In April 2024, An Bord Pleanala granted planning permission for Art Data Centres Ltd comprising six data halls covering 145 acres of lands adjacent to the Tulla Rd on the eastern outskirts of Ennis near Junction 13 on the M18 motorway connecting Galway to Limerick.

However, opponents of the data centre, Colin Doyle, Friends of the Irish Environment CLG, Futureproof Clare, Martin Knox and Christine Sharp sought a High Court judicial

review of the appeals board permission.

Last October, An Bord Pleanala conceded the objectors’ claim for quashing the board’s data centre planning permission where they admitted that the Board erred in law in failing to consider adequately the environmental effects of the proposed development on bat fauna.

However, Art Data Centres Ltd are contesting the appeals board’s High Court judicial review concession to the objectors.

Art Data Centres were last month successful in the first part of their challenge when dismissing the objectors’ grounds over the Leisler Bat, Mr Justice Humphreys described the appeals board inspector’s error about the bat on page 74 of the inspector’s report as ‘harmless’.

Now in a costs ruling concerning the Leisler Bat module of High Court action, Mr Justice Humphreys has ruled that he would make no order for costs for the applicants meaning that they will have to pay their own costs for that module.

Mr Justice Humphreys stated that the losing side implausibly asked that their costs be reserved instead of being the subject of no order.

He said that one of the reasons put forward was that the objectors to the data centre might succeed on a second strand of their High Court judicial review challenge on the issue of a derogation licence.

In his costs ruling, Mr Justice Humphreys said: “There’s no point reserving the losing applicants’ costs because there is nothing to discuss – they lost. So they aren’t going to be getting their costs of the issue on which they lost.”

He remarked: “No order as to costs for losers is merely a bracing Autumn breeze, not a Baltic Winter blizzard.”

He said that we are here because the objectors to the data centre “proposed a spurious point that the permission should be quashed because of failure to take into account a bat roost, even though all potential roosts had already been accounted for, and then made a spurious objection to no order as to their costs of the losing point”.

He further added what’s notable about the textbook applicant rhetoric which is by no means confined to these applicants – is that when there is any suggestion of no order as to costs, “the response is dumbfounded condemnation of a “punitive” order”.

He said: “This is obvious nonsense to anyone outside the bubble of likeminded free-riding applicants.”

He said: “The court isn’t punishing these applicants for making losing points – all I am doing right now is saying that they won’t be getting their costs of doing so.”

Mr Justice Humphreys said: “Overall we can’t lose sight of the fact that the costs system is already seriously imbalanced against opposing parties and particularly private sector developers who have to pay all of their own costs as they go with minimal meaningful comeback against applicants who lose in whole or in part.”

He said: “The system should not be viewed as a complete gravy train whereby any attempt to consider mitigation of complete and total costs in favour of an applicant is castigated as being unfair, inequitable and a breach of domestic, European and international law.”

Mr Justice Humphreys said that for a court to succumb to that unfounded rhetoric would be to inadvertently render the system even more one-sided and imbalanced against opposing parties (developers) than it already is.

Award-winning Easter display by Clare Butchers

by Lisa Mullaly

B. MOLLOY Master Butchers, based in Roslevan and in Ennis, has received a five-Star Award in this year’s Easter Lamb Display Competition.

The Irish Butchers’ Guild organises this easter competition as a celebration of the creativity, craftsmanship, and passion of independent butchers across Ireland. With Easter being a time when Irish lamb takes centre stage on tables around the country, the competition shone a spotlight on the exceptional skill and dedication of our local butchers - each one a true champion of quality and tradition.

Judges praised the Clare based butchers who received a five star award in this yeasr compeition for their exceptional creativity, skilled presentation, superb range of expertly prepared cuts and commitment to Irish lamb.

Derek Molloy commented: “This award is a credit to our whole team’s effort and passion. From our own Bord Bia Quality Assured farm in Quin to sourcing from trusted local farmers, it’s all about delivering top-quality Irish lamb to our customers and celebrating the very best of Irish butchery.” Recently, Molloy’s achieved the prestigious

Great Taste Producer status for their beef and lamb products.

This year’s Overall Champion was awarded to Andrew Callaghan Butchers, Bettystown, Co. Meath, whose 5 Star display was a stunning showcase of seasonal celebration, skilful butchery and product excellence.

B. Molloy Master Butchers as among a number of butchers who

were also recognised with 5-Star Awards for their outstanding entries, including Grogan & Brown Artisan Butchers, Kilkenny, Davidson’s Craft Butchers, Cork, Jim Crowley Craft Butchers, Midleton, Corrigan’s Artisan Butchers, Dublin, Murphy Craft Butchers, Tullow, while others achieved 4-Star and 3-Star Awards for the high quality and effort on display.

The event showcased an impressive variety of lamb-based creations such as Rack of Lamb stuffed with black and white pudding, Mint Lamb Kebabs, Lamb Curry Parcels, Lamb Onion Bhajis, Spicy Lamb Meatballs, Ginger & Chilli Lamb Cushion, Shepherd’s Pie Lamb Truffles, Herb Crusted Rack of Lamb, Marinated Lamb Tomahawks, Lamb Empanadas, Merguez

Sausages, Salt Aged Rack of Lamb and Spicy Lamb Koftas and Lamb Twists, together with more traditional lamb cuts. Entries were evaluated on product range and quality, visual appeal, creativity, innovation, and craftmanship.

Commenting on the competition, the Irish Butchers’ Guild said: “Our members continue to raise the bar each year. These displays aren’t just about presentation - they represent the passion, tradition and local pride that goes into every cut of meat. It’s a celebration of Irish lamb, Irish butchery, and the incredible service our members provide to communities across the country.”

Formed in 2019, the Irish Butchers’ Guild was founded by a community of independent, like-minded butchers from across Ireland, both north and south. United by a shared passion for their craft, this group of highly motivated butchers is dedicated to preserving the time-honoured skills, knowledge, and heritage of traditional butchery. At the same time, they embrace modern techniques and innovation to deliver uncompromising quality, innovation, and exceptional products and experiences for their customers.

Daly’s appointment as Council Chief Executive ratified

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TUAMGRANEY’S Gordon Daly’s appointment as Chief Executive of Clare County Council has been ratified by elected members of the local authority.

Daly is expected to take up the post late in May following the approval of his appointment by elected members at a behind closed doors briefing.

At the end of March, the Public Appointments Service (PAS) recommended Gordon as the successor to Pat Dowling. The Corporate Policy Group (CPG) then backed this decision before it was rubber stamped by county councillors on Monday afternoon. Gordon said he was “delighted and honoured to join Clare County Council as Chief Executive and I wish to thank the Cathaoirleach and the elected members for approving my appointment. I also wish to acknowledge the very significant contribution to Clare County Council and County Clare by my predecessor, Pat Dowling. I look forward to working in partnership with staff, management, public representatives and all our various partners and stakeholders in further delivering on the potential and ambition of County Clare”.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) said, “I look forward to welcoming Gordon back to Clare

County Council in his new role as chief executive, an important role that carries a lot of responsibility. I am confident that Gordon will do his best for the further economic and social development of the county. The members of Clare County Council look forward to working with him in the years ahead to deliver on the key objectives of the council and wish him every success in this important role”.

A past pupil of Tuamgraney NS and Scariff Community College, Gordon has worked in local government all his life. He graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a honours degree in countryside planning and he obtained a masters in town and country planning from Queens University Belfast.

He has twenty eight years experience work-

ing in local government across five different local authorities, including Clare.

For the past decade he has worked with Limerick City & County Council as a Director of Service and more recently as its Deputy Director General where he was responsible for key areas such as Corporate Services, Human Resources and Organisational Development. He has led teams in the development of a range of strategic tourism and recreational initiatives in Limerick including the award winning 40km Limerick Greenway and the Limerick Regional Athletics Hub, an international standard public facility in Newcastle West. In addition, he has overseen the successful transfer of King John’s Castle, Limerick’s largest visitor attraction, to the local authority owned Discover Limerick DAC from the Shannon Airport Group in 2022. He has also played a key role in preparations to-date for the hosting of the centenary Ryder Cup in 2027 at Adare Manor, Limerick. He also led the establishment of a Dereliction and Vacancy Unit in Limerick.

Gordon previously worked as the Senior Planner for Clare County Council from 2009-2015 where he led the development of various strategies including the Strategic Integrated Framework Plan (SIFP) for the Shannon Estuary and the first Clare Renewable Energy Strategy. He is a past president of the Irish Planning Institute.

lisa@clareecho.ie

lLAMB DISPLAYCOMPETITION: B.Molloy Master Butchers award winning display

lCHIEF EXECUTIVE: Gordon Daly

Photo by Eamon Ward

IN AN age where products and services are becoming increasingly commoditized, the real differentiator between a thriving business and one that struggles to survive is, ‘customer service’.

While quality, pricing, and innovation are still critical components of success, it is often the way a customer is treated before, during, and after a purchase that determines whether they return, recommend, or completely reject a brand.

At Elaine Ryan & Associates, we firmly believe that customer service is not just at policy, it is a philosophy that permeates every part of our business. Regardless of the volume or value of the engagement, every customer interaction matters. In this article, we explore the critical role customer service plays in business growth, customer loyalty, and long-term profitability.

Influence

of Customer Service on Satisfaction Beyond Products

It’s a common misconception that a great product or technology alone can ensure customer satisfaction. While quality is non-negotiable, it is the experience surrounding that quality that shapes perceptions.

Think about it: a client may love your product or service, but if the onboarding process was confusing, their queries were ignored, or post-service follow-up was absent, the overall impression remains poor. On the other hand, if minor issues were handled promptly, feedback was acknowledged, and the communication was clear and respectful, even average products or services are often forgiven. This is because customer service appeals to something more emotional and human, it acknowledges people, validates their concerns, and makes them feel seen and valued.

The Interconnection

Between Customer Service and Customer Relationships

Customer relationships are not built over a single transaction. They are built over time, through consistent, positive interactions that form a foundation of trust. Exceptional customer service is the bedrock of that trust.

When a business consistently shows up for its customers, provides timely assistance, and demonstrates a deep understanding of their needs, customers don’t just feel heard, they feel helped. Over time, this creates loyalty, advocacy, and long-term relationships that marketing campaigns cannot do. In short, customer service is not just a support function, it is a strategic function that directly fuels relationship-building.

Referrals as a Reward from Satisfied Customers

One of the most powerful and

Customer Service: The heartbeat of every successful business

cost-effective growth strategies in any business is word-of-mouth referral. Satisfied customers become brand ambassadors. They share their experiences with friends, family, and colleagues, not because they are asked to, but because they genuinely want others to benefit from the value they received.

Compare this to traditional marketing efforts, which often require substantial budgets, creative ideas, and ongoing campaigns. While marketing has its place, acquiring a customer through referral costs significantly less, converts faster, and stays longer. A happy customer is the best advertisement you can ever have. That is why investing in customer service isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about creating promoters.

What Makes Customer Service Impactful?

There are several factors that distinguish exceptional customer service from average or poor service, those are:

lResponsiveness – Quick responses, even if only to acknowledge a concern, go a long way in reducing customer anxiety.

lEmpathy – Understanding the customer’s perspective and validating their emotions fosters trust.

lConsistency – A dependable service experience every time creates reliability and loyalty.

lKnowledge – Well-trained teams who understand the product or ser-

vice can provide accurate, helpful assistance.

lPersonalisation – Tailoring solutions or communication to the specific customer makes them feel valued and respected.

lFollow-up – A simple check-in after a service is delivered can enhance the experience and show care.

These factors are not luxuries, they are expectations. In an increasingly competitive business world, delivering them consistently can make or break a business performance.

Technology: Revolutionizing Modern Customer Service

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lCUSTOMER SERVICE: The main difference between athriving business and one that is struggling is their customer service practise

'At 36 my body feels as good as ever'

Conlon gears up for a whopping 17th season in saffron and blue

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

JOHN CONLON and the Clare senior hurlers are expecting “a massive challenge” from Cork this Sunday in the opening round of the Munster SHC but it is one they are “really looking forward to”.

Anticipation is building for the first round of the Munster championship with tickets in scarce supply such is the appetite for Sunday’s clash in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg.

Speaking to The Clare Echo ahead of the encounter with Cork, centre back John Conlon outlined, “These are the times as a hurler you get excited. You’re working towards that bunch of games that are coming up in the Munster Championship, you know it’s just week in week out and there’s a different storyline around the corner each day. We know that the first game is a massive challenge and we’re really looking forward to it”.

Conlon said that preparations are in full swing for Clare’s All-Ireland defence, despite a poor

league campaign that saw the Banner relegated from Division 1A and only picking up one win against Limerick.

After the Limerick game, the Clonlara club man said the team were in “championship mode now” before being hammered 6-20 to 0-23 by Cork and a further loss against Tipp. Conlon gave no excuses for the way Clare limped out.

“The Limerick game was the first game that we were going to that felt like a championship game. There was a very big crowd inside, there was great anticipation, there was a great buzz and intensity in that game. We were really disappointed to go out against Cork in the next game the week after and be very, very poor. We didn’t get to the pitch at all or come with the same intensity we played the week

before and Cork came with that massive drive and hunger that we weren’t expecting”.

After winning a first All-Ireland title since 2013, Clare enjoyed a holiday to the United States of America where they visited Nashville and Miami. Manager Brian Lohan “put the foot down once December and January came” according to Conlon. “Over the last number of weeks things have really stepped up, obviously the weather has improved and you have the extra hour in the evening as well so there’s a lot more work going into training. You’re not training under lights anymore, you’re training in daytime”.

First coming onto the panel in 2008, Conlon now has the record for the most championship appearances by a Clare hurler, winning All-Irelands under Davy Fitzgerald in 2013 and Brian Lohan in 2024. Now aged 36 and coming into his sev-

enteenth season as a Clare senior hurler, the former captain is showing no signs of slowing down. “You watch Patrick Horgan, TJ Reid, all these lads are still able to perform really highly for Cork and Kilkenny. At 36, my body feels as good as it’s ever been feeling. As one of the managers said last year I’ll be long enough sitting on the couch watching on and above in the stand in Cusack Park in the years to come so if you can still add value why not play”.

A Munster Championship is the only medal Conlon is yet to claim in the county colours, having won two All-Irelands and two National Leagues. Clare have not been champions of Munster since 1998 but the primary school teacher insists that it’s not weighing heavily on the minds of the squad. “Every year you go out I suppose the main goals are to win either a Munster Championship or an All-Ireland. Every year it’s a goal, we’re obviously disappointed. We've had five finals and a few opportunities and we just haven’t

come out on the right side and had near misses. As I’ve always been asked, would you give up an All-Ireland for a Munster title, well you wouldn’t at the end of the day.

“Every player that goes out on the field or that wears any jersey at inter county level, your main goal every year is to win an All-Ireland and they’ll be the medals that you’ll be remembered for. At the end of the year, if we were to go and win an All-Ireland and not win a Munster again, I’d be quite happy with that. If we can win a Munster along the way then we’d be delighted to do so and tick it off the list,” he added.

John was speaking at the launch of the ‘eir for all’ Poc Tapa Challenge. Eir is calling on GAA clubs across the country to take part in the ‘eir for all’ Poc Tapa Challenge to be in with a chance to win up to €5,000 for their club and play on the hallowed turf of Croke Park on All Ireland Semi-Final Day.

For further information on how to enter follow @eir.ireland or visit eir.ie.

MUNSTER SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 1: CLARE VS CORK

Ryan Taylor reveling in 'unbelievable Cusack Park championship clashes'

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MUNSTER Championship games in Cusack Park are “unbelievable” and the encounters that Ryan Taylor most looks forward to.

Taylor is expected to assume a role in the middle of the Park for Sunday’s first round 2pm clash with Cork. This championship feel that accompanies these Cusack Park ties is something Clare feed off, he said. “It's unbelievable. They're my favourite games to play in the whole year, those home games. I think since the round robin was introduced it's been a revelation. Even for the town of Ennis itself, to have those crowds. In fairness to Cork, they're unbelievable supporters to travel so I'm sure it'll be a cracker of a day up in Ennis”.

Businesses in Ennis get to experience this championship buzz, none more so than Taylor’s Bar in the Market. “I think we've tripled our staff for that day,” Ryan noted. His parents Susan and Patrick have circled the date in the calendar for some time, not just for being match ready but also business ready. “They're great days and I suppose we know all about them in the family pub. They're magical days”. Indeed his father Patrick previously told The Clare Echo that the home Munster championship games have

“carried on the Fleadh fever” experienced in the county town in 2016 and 2017. 2025 has been a sobering run so far for the All-Ireland champions who relinquished their league title and also suffered relegation. “We probably weren't happy with a lot of our performances. There was some inconsistency there. It was no doubt a tough league campaign.”

A one-point loss to Tipperary was symptomatic of this on March 22, seeing as Clare led 1-14 to 0-9 by 42 minutes but left a lot of chances behind. “We played well for patches of it but I suppose when you're eight or nine points up and you're reeled in, it's not ideal. In fairness to Tipp, they're going really well. We could have got a result but didn't on the day and we'll be looking to improve now,” Ryan recounted.

He continued, “There's no doubt that you still want to play well in the league. It's still a national competition. It just didn't materialise. We're doing a lot of hard training but our performances probably just haven't had that bit of consistency. All eyes now are to the championship. I suppose the league is done and dusted now and we'll move on. We've tried out some new lads and I feel like we've a good, strong panel now with a bit of depth.”

There is no shortage of hunger in the Clare camp,

the Clooney/Quin clubman stressed. “It’s probably always a question posed to All-Ireland winners - can they come back again? But to be honest, I don't really feed into it at all. It's virtually the same team with some new faces, so for me, the hunger is still there.

"When you're playing at this level and you're training five, six nights a week, the hunger is there. If it's not, you wouldn't be there train-

ing and putting the effort in.”

He added, "As soon as the Munster Championship starts, teams are at their strongest... On a given day, any team in Munster can beat any team so you have to be at your best the first day out”.

This first day sees Clare take on the high-flying Cork, the recently crowned league champions. “We haven't started the Munster Championship with wins in the last

couple of years. If you can get a win in your first game, it probably takes the pressure off a little bit. But all you can focus on is your first Championship game and you can't look any further than that. Cork are probably the form team so far, so no doubt it will be a real challenge”.

A year-long ACL injury saw Ryan make his first appearance of 2024 from the bench with 49 minutes played in the All-Ireland semi-final against Kilkenny and he had a game-changing impact versus the team he picked up the dreaded knee injury against 12 months previous. Fortunately for Ryan and Clare, he hasn’t experienced any ill-effects since returning to full fitness. "I probably still feel like it takes a while to get back to 100 per cent or your pre-injury levels. But the physios and all have been great and thankfully I haven't picked up any niggles, so I'm feeling good”.

Injury keeps Shane O’Donnell out of Clare’s plans for Sunday. “I had a long-term injury last year so I kind of knew what he was going through. I suppose for him personally it's very tough. In the last couple of years he's been playing the hurling of his life. He's an integral part of our team, there's no doubt about it. But these things happen. It's the nature of sport that you can get long-

term injuries and there's no point in dwelling on them.

“Shane is a special player and he's irreplaceable in a lot of regards. But these things happen. Tony was out for a number of months last year as well. We've blooded a few young lads and Jack O'Neill has been very impressive and a couple of more lads, Daithí Lohan and Shane Woods, against Tipperary so Shane is definitely a huge loss but there's nothing we can do about that now.”

With Seadna Morey and Paul Flanagan retiring, it offers an opportunity for new players such as Taylor’s clubmate, Jack O’Neill. “He’s been hurling really well and you need that. You need those young lads coming in because I suppose we're not going to be around forever, the current lads. He's a really, really dedicated young lad and I suppose he's very physically strong for a 19, 20 year old. He's been looked at in the club for a long time as a big prospect. He has a great attitude as well. He's a great player”.

Indeed O’Neill’s residence close to the Quin border with Newmarket-on-Fergus means he could have been lining out with the Blues as opposed to alongside Taylor at club level. “We wouldn't let him go that easily. He's too important. No, he's a really nice young lad with a great attitude”.

l Taylor in league action against Cork

Photo by Ruth Griffin

Strongest Cork in years, says Kingston

by Michael Fitzgerald

CORK’s Shane Kingston says the hype surrounding the league champions is “irrelevant to us” as they look to start their championship on a winning note against Clare in Ennis this Sunday.

Speaking at the launch of the ‘eir for all’ Poc Tapa Challenge, Kingston acknowledged that it was important to stay grounded ahead of their Munster championship opening round tie in what is a repeat of last year’s All-Ireland final.

He commented, “There obviously is a lot of hype, there’s a lot of noise but that’s kind of irrelevant to us, we would always emphasise keeping the outside out. If things are going bad there’s a lot of hype as well about how bad you’re going”, Kingston com-

mented.

Kingston was part of the Cork side that beat Clare in consecutive Munster Finals in 2017 and 2018 and won two Fitzgibbon Cup titles during his time in UCC.

In recent years, the twenty-seven year old has found himself playing as an impact sub, suffering a torn hamstring in 2024 and a recent groin injury that kept him out of a number of league games.

Competition to feature on the starting team for the Rebels is at an alltime high, he said.

“The competition for the starting 15 and even for the 26

is definitely the best I’ve been on, that kind of keeps you focused as well that you have to be switched on every training session. Any chance you get then to play a game you have to be extra focused and try to get the best out of yourself every time because there’s somebody else trying to take your place”.

During this year’s league run, Cork scored eighteen goals, more than any other team in the country, including six in a 6-20 to 0-23 hammering of Clare. The dangerous trend is something that Cork are eager to continue into their championship opener says Kingston.

“Any time you go out you want to

get goals. It’s definitely not something we’ve put huge emphasis really on in training. It’s something that just kind of happened over the course of the league naturally. I think over the last number of years we were probably always creating the goals, it was just maybe the efficiency of it all wasn’t great whereas now we’re probably converting one or two more each game and we’re reaping the rewards with them”, he stated.

Cork are chasing a first championship win over Clare since 2021 when the counties meet this Sunday. Their facile league win over the Banner does not factor into consideration in the lead-up to championship, the Douglas clubman flagged. “Obviously it was a good result, there’s no point taking from it. At the end of the

day we’re not getting caught up in that, it’s a league game. There’s a big gap between a league and a championship match so you can’t take too much from it. We haven’t beaten Clare in the championship since 2021 so we know there’s a massive task next week. We’re just going to try and get the most out of ourselves for the next few sessions and few weeks and hopefully drive on from there”. eir, Ireland’s leading telecommunications provider, is calling on GAA clubs across the country to take part in the ‘eir for all’ Poc Tapa Challenge to be in with a chance to win up to €5,000 for their club and play on the hallowed turf of Croke Park on All Ireland Semi-Final Day. For further information on how to enter follow @eir.ireland or visit eir.ie.

LAST 10 CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS

CLARE and Cork meet in the Munster SHC opener in a highly-anticipated repeat of the thrilling 2024 All-Ireland final which Clare won by the narrowest of margins, writes Michael Fitzgerald Having been subject to four defeats in a row from 2016-2018, Clare have since turned the screw on the side they also defeated in the 2013 All-Ireland replayed decider.

2024: Clare 3-29 Cork 1-34 (W) Croke Park, All Ireland Final

2024 Clare 3-26 Cork 3-24 (W) Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Munster RD2

2023 Clare 2-22 Cork 3-18 (W) Cusack Park, Munster RD4

2022 Cork 2-20 Clare 0-28 (W) Thurles, Munster RD2

2021 Cork 3-19 Clare 1-23 (L) Gaelic Grounds Limerick, All Ireland Qualifiers RD2

2019 Clare 2-23 Cork 2-18 (W) Cusack Park, Munster RD5

2018 Cork 2-23 Clare 1-21 (L) Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Munster RD1

2018 Cork 2-24 Clare 3-19 (L) Páirc Uí Chaoimh, Munster Final

2017 Cork 1-25 Clare 1-20 (L) Thurles, Munster Final

2016 Clare 0-17 Cork 0-20 (L) Thurles, All Ireland Qualifiers RD2

news@clareecho.ie

Return in sight for Clare's star man Shane O'Donnell

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

HURLER OF the year, Shane O’Donnell has confirmed that his recovery is ahead of schedule and he is hopeful of featuring for Clare in this year’s championship.

There was widespread upset after The Irish Times reported in February that O’Donnell was set to miss the entire season after undergoing a shoulder operation with Clare manager Brian Lohan stating that they expected to be without the Éire Óg man for the season.

However on the week leading up to Clare’s opening round in the championship at home to Cork on Sunday, O’Donnell has lifted the spirits of the Banner faithful with comments on Monday afternoon that he is hopeful of playing some part in Clare’s bid to retain their All-Ireland title.

Speaking on Monday at an event where Bord Gáis Energy were an official sponsor of the All-Ireland SHC, the Ennis native said he was

optimistic of returning to full contact hurling training within four to eight weeks.

Clare’s final game in the round robin series of the Munster championship is scheduled for May 25th versus Limerick in TUS Gaelic Grounds with the provincial decider pencilled in for June 7 should Lohan’s side qualify for the Munster final for the fourth year in a row.

Earlier this year, Shane underwent an operation on his right shoulder for a labrum tear, an injury he sustained in the All-Ireland final win over Cork but aggravated when training with Éire Óg.

The shoulder labrum is a thick piece of tissue attached to the rim of the shoulder socket that helps keep the ball of the joint in place.

Recovery depends on many factors, such as where the tear was located, how severe it was and how good the surgical repair was. It is believed that it takes at least four to six weeks for the labrum to reattach itself to the rim of the bone, and proba-

bly another four to six weeks to get strong.

O’Donnell is ahead of the curve on his recovery which was initially expected to have a six-month window. He expects to have further clarity on his exact timeline following further consultation with physios.

On an exact return date, he said, "I don't have a very solid answer for that really, I don't have any dates or anything like that. It's coming along well but I'm still a bit away to be honest. So I don't have a date that I can give you.

"I'm still kind of working with physios and stuff like that and I'm actually coming to the point where in the next week or so, I should be able to hammer out and understand where it'll be. But it'll be anywhere between four and eight weeks I'd say still in it, so yeah, that's kind of the timeline I'm looking at”.

Information at the time is what prompted management ruling him out for the championship, Shane stated. "I went to a consultant and

she was like, 'If you want to play next year then you're going to need surgery'," he revealed. "Basically that was the conversation. Then I had to make a decision with that information”. Long-term issues with the shoulder are not forecast, the two-time All-Ireland winner noted. "That's why I have to take the time it takes now and that's why I have to do exactly what the physio tells me to do. But there shouldn't be any long-lasting impact after I actually get back out there. That's where the caution is, that you don't want to be in a situation that you could re-injure, or leave yourself weaker on one side, or not able to do certain movements or things like that. That's what the (recovery) time frame is for."

Management have previously dismissed reports that Shane had returned to training with the panel. "I was doing physio in Dublin. I mean, if you consider that training, then maybe I was training but, no, it wasn't with the panel or anything”.

l O'Donnell's recovery is ahead of schedule

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Emmet 'buzzing' for Cusack Park showdown

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THOUGH many of his teaching colleagues are making the most of the Easter holidays, Clare footballer Emmet McMahon is content to confine his travels to Cusack Park as the county enters the championship arena.

Indeed, it’s the dawning of a sixth championship campaign for Emmet who is expected to partner Brian McNamara at midfield on Saturday when Clare take on Tipperary in the Munster semi-final at 2pm.

Years involved with the county are increasing but so too are the enjoyment levels, he observed. “You always look at other championship players around and how they get into their 15th or 16th season, you don’t feel them going by but it gets more enjoyable every year and nothing more enjoyable than buzzing out of Cusack Park on Monday evening looking forward to a big championship game this Saturday”.

Over the past two seasons, he has grown into one of the team’s leaders. “The first two or three years I’d have been a younger player on the panel and it was tough because you’ve to put down two or three years and really work hard to get your place and when you do get the chance you’ve to make it stick and

make it happen.

"Last year we had a big overturn of players and it was the year for some of us that we had to step up as leaders.

"That opportunity is a privilege for a lot of us to grow up into new roles, I think we’ve done it well”.

This year, he is joined for the first time on an inter-county panel by his older brother, Rory. “It’s brilliant. The first two or three years I was the only Kildysart player on the panel, it has been absolutely brilliant to have myself, Rory, Diarmuid O’Donnell and Fergal Guinane.

"Sharing the pitch with some of your clubmates is brilliant.

"The club scene is far away now and we won’t worry about it, when we’re out there with Clare we’re all putting on that jersey with Clare, it is special and we have really bonded, Peter has really got us bonded together this year."

A maths and PE teacher at St Caimin’s Community School in Shannon, the life of an county footballer precludes Emmet from jetting off during the Easter holidays but there’s no complaints from the UL graduate. “It is a privilege to put on the Clare jersey, it is a luxury really. Every day you go out you have to remember that, you have to be proud to put on that Clare jersey, that is what it

comes back to when you see all your buddies going away or fellas on holidays over the break, there is nothing better than a championship win coming out on the right side of a real big win and you’re in somewhere like Cusack Park with the sun shining with all your teammates, all your brothers in battle."

Clare’s league run which for the second year in succession saw them miss out on promotion to Division 2 in the final round brought “lots of learnings”. He reflected, “we had seven league games and five wins, two losses, you will always look back and focus on the losses, that is the way sport goes because people focus on the negatives, there’s learnings we’ve taken for sure. One of the key points is we had four wins from four in Cusack Park, we’re keen to make that as a group and make any game we have in Cusack Park a big fortress.

"The learnings on the negative side, there’s lots to take away, too many to go into but overall positive enough”.

One of Clare’s struggles during the league was to nail down a midfield partner for Cooraclare’s Brian McNamara which by the conclusion of their run was deemed to be Emmet. Moving from the half-forward line to midfield brings “a few differences,” he acknowledged. “With

the new rules a lot of the kickouts are going long so you’re contesting a lot more high ball in the middle, primary possession and even secondary possession on the breaks is so important, it is vital.”

At minor level in the county colours and with his club Kildysart, Emmet has demonstated his fielding ability which makes him a natural fit to accompany Brian Mc. “Brian has had an excellent league, hopefully he can carry it onto championship. I played a bit with Brian at Sigerson level, we’d be familiar with each other around the middle eight anyway.

"It is hard for Peter and a new management when you don’t know where players are stronger in certain positions or if they might flourish a bit better somewhere else, we took learnings from the

league and hopefully we can bring them into championship”.

Long kickouts has been a consequence of the new rules but the introduction of the two pointer increases the value of a shooter like McMahon. “Tipperary played Waterford and they were up six or seven points. The game can change so quickly, we’ve seen that in the league where teams were 15 or 16 points down and against the breeze but they come back with the breeze and get a comeback on very quickly... a one pointer as we call it now is still a good score and that was a key learning; a point is a good score, take your point, go and get your next kickout and go again.

"We had a decent comeback against Laois, I don’t think we kicked a two pointer at all in a ten or 11-point

turnaround, there is a bit of excitement around the two point arc for that reward but the Division 1 average was 25 percent from two pointers, they are one in four shots so we’re playing the percentages as a team to make sure we get the shots off”.

Peter Keane is the third Clare senior manager that Emmet has played under and he is very impressed with the former Kerry boss, lauding a "fantastic training camp" last weekend. “We’re really playing for him, the standards he brings and his mannerisms, it might be a small chat after training or something to work on or get better on, something you did well, small chats here and there, he really wants to improve you as a player and he believes in us.”

He continued, “There’s some brilliant work going on in the background, Jim Marrinan has been there for years, Eoin Curtin, Shane O’Rourke, Peter Tormey and Paddy Tiernan are in the background making this jigsaw all fit together.

"We did a good pre-season together, we went to the well in our sessions, a lot of hard trainings put down on Caherlohan and on different beaches, there’s been some real tough sessions which steel the mind and bonded us a group."

Saturday’s game has a lot on the line as it determines how the remainder of Clare’s championship pans out be it the All-Ireland series or the Tailteann Cup. “We’re focusing on Saturday at 2pm, by 4pm on Saturday we want to have produced a solid good performance, once we get all them small metrics right like our tackles, shooting efficiency, our turnover loss kept low, kickout retention, if all of them metrics are right I’m sure the result will hopefully look after itself so we’ll work hard on our preparation and hopefully the result will take care of itself on Saturday”.

LAST 10 CHAMPIONSHIP MEETINGS

CLARE and Tipperary meet in the Munster SFC for the first time since 2020 this Saturday where the prize is a place in the provincial final along with a spot in the All-Ireland series, writes Michael Fitzgerald Tipperary have the better recent record in their most recent Munster championship meetings, causing an upset to win the 2020 semi-final on their way to claiming provincial honours and also overcoming Clare in the 2002 semi-final following a replay.

2020: Tipperary 2-11

Clare 1-11, Munster quarter-final at Semple Stadium, Thurles

2002: Tipperary 1-8

Clare 0-8, Munster semi-final replay at the Gaelic Grounds, Limerick

2002: Tipperary 3-7

Clare 1-13, Munster semi-final at Fitzgerald Stadium, Killarney

2000: Clare 0-15

Tipperary 0-10, Munster semi-final at the Gaelic Grounds, Limerick

1998: Tipperary 1-16

Clare 0-12, Munster semi-final at the Gaelic Grounds, Limerick

1994: Tipperary 2-8

Clare 0-13, Munster quarter-final at Cusack Park, Ennis

1992: Clare 2-11

Tipperary 2-17, Munster semi-final at the Gaelic Grounds

1989: Tipperary 1-18

Clare 2-5, Munster quarter-final at Ned Hall Park, Clonmel

1986: Tipperary 2-12

Clare 2-9 (AET), Munster quarter-final replay at Páirc Uí Chaoimh

1986: Clare 1-7

Tipperary 0-10, Munster quarter-final at Cusack Park, Ennis

l Emmet McMahon

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Ugwueru a major injury doubt for Clare as Cleary recovers

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

IKEM UGWUERU is a major doubt for Clare’s Munster semi-final while Eoin Cleary is understood to have recovered in time to get to nod to start.

Peter Keane’s first championship game as Clare senior football manager takes place in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg this Saturday at 2pm as they welcome Tipperary to Ennis for the Munster semi-final.

For this encounter, a leg injury has Ikem Ugwueru in a race against time to feature for his county. The powerful utility man who made his championship debut for Clare in the 2023 Munster semi-final win over Limerick is believed to have picked up the knock in training and is now regarded as doubtful to start Saturday’s game.

Among the potential replacements in Ikem’s absence include Connor Meaney of

Lissycasey who featured at wing back from the off in two of Clare’s Allianz National Football League encounters. However, a hamstring injury is believed to have curtailed his chances of getting the nod.

Ruled out for Saturday’s game is midfielder Seán McAllister. The Clare U20 sustained an injury during their 2-16 0-17 loss to Tipperary on Tuesday last. The Clondegad man remains in a sling after sustaining a heavy fall to his shoulder during that clash played at New Inn. His teammate at U20 and senior level, Evan Cahill did not form part of the U20 squad for Tuesday’s hammering to Kerry suggesting that he is in line to make his debut from the bench for the county seniors this weekend.

Injury forced Eoin Cleary off in Clare’s final round league game with Offaly but the former county captain has recovered in time to form

part of the Banner attack for Saturday’s semi-final. It was a rib injury that saw him leave the field early in that clash and a back injury that prompted Keelan Sexton’s withdrawal but the duo are both on course to make their first championship appearances since 2023.

Elsewhere, Eamon Tubridy is set to make his first championship appear ance since 2018 between the posts while the defence will be comprised of captain Cillian Brennan, Éire Óg duo Ronan Lanigan and Manus Doherty plus Cillian Rouine of Lahinch at centre back.

Brian McNamara and Em met McMahon are the ex pected midfield pairing for Clare with Sexton, Cleary, Aaron Griffin and Dermot Coughlan to occupy key roles in the forward line.

PICTURED: Ikem in action during the league

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Clare won't take Tipperary

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ATTACKING football which brings an element of entertainment is how they like to play gaelic football in Clare according to senior manager Peter Keane.

Keane who managed Kerry’s senior footballers for three seasons begins his first championship as Clare manager this Saturday when they face Tipperary in the Munster semi-final.

His appointment was first reported at the end of October, the Cahersiveen man was the last of the candidates to enter the frame to succeed Mark Fitzgerald.

Since his three year term as Kerry manager ended following their All-Ireland semi-final loss to Tyrone in 2021, Peter had been linked with taking over Derry but coming on board with Clare is his first inter-county role outside of his native county.

On the Clare appeal, he said, “geography was probably a big factor. I’m pretty much self-employed I suppose. I’ve a good few people working for me, and with me, I’m probably very lucky and blessed that it’s a family business and my wife and sons are all involved in the business and that allows me a bit of latitude to go, but equally how

far can I go, like? I want to be home that night, I was to be asleep in my own bed. There’s only so much you can do and where we’re located here down in Kerry, there’s only so far you can go”.

He added, “I don’t think you can ever have research done going into a role like this, because you’re removed, no matter what way you twist it, you’re very removed from geographically from where they are. You get a feeling and you just go in and dive in and see how you get on. I am [enjoying Clare]. There’s a great bunch of lads there, we’ve put a very good management team together. We’re having a bit of fun and, obviously, there’s days you say ‘oh, Jesus’ and it might not go your way, but in general it’s been good”.

Given that the bulk of Clare’s training has been in Caherlohan, Ballyline and Cusack Park, he travels by car as opposed to getting the ferry.

Building up fitness levels has been a strong focus for Keane with S&C coach Shane O’Rourke having previously worked with him in the Kingdom. “I think there’s a great spirit in the group, I think there’s a good bit of fitness in the group. They’re very honest, very willing. There’s a great determination in them, and you know,

maybe if we’d been a bit more clinical early on against Offaly we could have asked questions that they may or may not have been able to answer”.

Passion for gaelic football is strong in Clare, he said. “They like their football and I’ve found that they like to see good football, attacking football, they, like everyone, want to be entertained to some extent. I think the lads have done that for them. The few games we’ve had in Cusack Park, it's great, there’s been a great atmosphere after the game when you see kids coming out to the players and looking for photos and selfies and autographs, and interacting with the players. The players have been tremendous with them, and making themselves available for that. There is a real want of football in Clare”.

After taking a year out both Eoin Cleary and Keelan Sexton returned to the Clare cause which certainly strengthens their attack. “They would bring a bit of experience as well, but if say watching over the league, what we have done, we’ve about seven or eight fellas who’ve got debuts as well. So, there’ s a bit of a churn going on all the time and maybe that’s one of the things in some of these other counties, where fellas have a tendency to go

for granted, insists Keane

away or take a year out or whatever. That might not necessarily happen in the bigger counties. So you do have a churn going on all the time and that churn loses experience, so a guy who might have got a bit of experience the last two years, that’s gone again and you’re starting from scratch with somebody else”.

Avoiding Cork in the semi-finals does not mean Clare got the handier draw, he maintained. “I don’t know about the kinder side of the draw. Look, you've a game to play, you play Tipperary so I don’t think you can afford to take anything for granted. If you look at the history of it in Munster, you’ve the big two in Kerry and Cork and the other four teams probably on any given day they can all beat each other, so that’s something we’ve to be very aware of. The big focus for us is Tipperary. I don't think we can afford to take anyone for granted and you wouldn’t want to be getting too carried away with yourself and thinking about the what ifs and the what maybes”.

Such what ifs include a potential Munster final against his native Kerry featuring many players whom he guided to win three All-Ireland and Munster championships in a row

“

[Historically] you have the big two in Kerry and Cork and the other four teams, probably on any given day, can all beat each other

(2016, 2017 and 2018) along with provincial senior honours in 2019 and 2021. “We’d worry about that if it did happen. If you started twisting and turning about something that might never happen… I remember reading something in a desktop calendar years ago ‘worry is like a rocking chair, it gets you nowhere’. And it’s very true. We’ll worry about Tipperary and then we’ll see how it goes from there”.

Had he known about the amount of rule changes, the former Kerry minor and U21 footballer may not have returned to inter-county management, he admitted. “Maybe had I known that there was going to be so many rule changes I mightn’t have gone back. I might have left other guinea-pigs be stuck in it, because it is a huge ask of management, it’s a huge ask of players, even it’s an ask of supporters watching the game. ‘Why

is that?’ And people questioning things the whole time. Then you find you can’t even question a referee in the middle of it, because something could go against you if he doesn’t like the fact that you’ve asked him. You’ve had something like 47, 48 or 49 rule changes. That’s a huge ask mentally for a player, there's a physical demand in this game with more running going on around the middle eight and then you add into that that they’re meant to be stretched trying to stay up with where they’re at… ‘have I breached the three up? is there three behind me?’ … or whatever. Fellas have got to be more tuned in”.

On the differences between preparing a Division 1 side versus a Division 3 outfit, he explained. “Probably one of the things from my perspective that I wouldn’t have been that familiar with is the teams and I wouldn’t have been that familiar with the players, whereas you see a bit more of a consistency with the Division 1 teams. Where you had a player last year so

you’ll know he’ll be there this year or whatever. Or there’s a panel that they have of 25 and you're watching them whereas there’s wholesale changes in the squads probably at a lower division. It’s probably where I thought it would be, you know? You’ve some very good players, you've some very good teams, probably one of the things that I would see at that level is teams that have had managements for a period they can become more consistent than teams that are changing a management every year or every two years, because there’s new things coming in, there’s new players, there’s a bigger churn”.

“By and large pitches have been very dry and the wind hasn’t been that bad except for the day we were above in Antrim. I think your pitch conditions haven’t been too bad, scores look like they’ve been high and there’s a bit of inflation in that with one becoming two, but I think it’ll take time. Maybe there is a concern that with the three up and the three back that maybe some of the weaker teams could get a thumping in the provincial championship. That probably remains to be seen”.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Tubridy embracing unexpected return to inter-county action

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A RETURN to inter-county football was not on Eamon Tubridy's radar - however he has found a new lease of life while nailing down the number one spot for Clare.

Eamon played championship for Clare in 2018 and was part of the panel in 2019 and 2020 where he featured in league outings but club has been the focus for the netminder since then, until of course a phonecall out of the blue from Peter Keane. Initially, he suspected that he was the subject of a joke.

“I wasn’t expecting it, Peter [Keane] rang me and I actually thought it was someone pulling my leg.

"I brushed him off a bit, next thing we had a few more chats and he is a very hard man to say no to, he explained to me what his plan was and it sounded fairly good. Since I’ve gone back I’ve really enjoyed it”.

Tubridy was Clare’s first choice goalkeeper in 2018 when he kept clean sheets

in their Munster clashes with Limerick and Kerry. He picked up a knee injury during Clare’s 1-19 to 2-14 qualifier win over Offaly which saw him substituted on 42 minutes and meant he missed their subsequent 2-16 to 1-15 round three qualifier loss to Armagh when Robert Eyres was between the posts.

Following knee surgery, Eamon's return in 2019 was cruelly cut short when he tore his PCL in his knee again. He recounts, "Then Stephen Ryan came in and kept his place through COVID, my last involvement was actually against Tipperary below in Thurles, Stephen was playing that day but I played two league games before it, I decided to step away after that”. Returning to the fold has been “really enjoyable,” he told The Clare Echo. “There’s great lads involved in the squad, the training is top notch, we have James Hanrahan with the goalkeepers, his training has been brilliant. "Shane O’Rourke our S&C coach, with my age and the

whole lot he doesn’t expect me to do what everyone else does, he takes it a bit easier on me I suppose”.

“I’m not near Cluxton yet,” the 37-year old Doonbeg native flagged of his 43-year old Dublin counterpart.

In his five years away from the inter-county scene, standards have “gone up another notch" he admits.

"When we came back in December it was a tough slog for about a month, there was a lot of emphasis put on fitness especially with the new rules and more running, I think our fitness levels are through the roof now and we’re finishing games very strong.

"Our nutritionist Nicole Shaw has been brilliant with us especially on the carb loading and getting the protein intake throughout the week.

"Even the video work has gone to a new level, the clips are sent to out us after every game, we’ve to study the clips and the opposition”.

Despite the rising pressures

associated with inter-county players, the atmosphere re mains positive in the Clare panel, he said. “It is actually a fairly relaxed camp, there’s great craic to be had.

"Peter is a right character, there’s brilliant craic and there is a great group there, it is very easy to come training, we have a good laugh be fore training and afterwards when we’re eating, it makes it very easy”.

Speaking about the rule which now stipulates that teams must keep four play ers in their half of the field, Eamon outlines, “With the goalkeepers it’s gone back to real old school now, you’re back to basics with the longer kickouts.

"The thing I find very frustrating is if that your corner back or full back are in trouble and they’re standing there near you but you can’t get involved or re ceive the pass back to give them a hand out, it feels like sometimes you’re a passenger but I understand why the rule is there”.

Indeed the aforemen tioned Stephen Cluxton has been lauded for the return on his kickout re tention.

New rules have also changed the dynamic for netminders according to Tubridy. “What we strug gled with early in the league was our kickout re tentions... it seemed every team was struggling with their kickout. I think in the last few games we got to grips with it by bring ing Emmet (McMahon) to midfield and giving Brian (McNamara) a hand out there. Getting the restarts away is the thing, the eas ing off of the 20 second rule has made a big dif ference, you have that bit more time to pick off your shorter kickouts.

“The FRC released the percentages for the league, the average for kickout re tention was 55% and we were at 57% so we were just above it, the last two games we really upped our percentages, it is some thing we have improved and worked a lot on,” he added.

Looking back on the league, he felt decision making in front of goal was one of the big learnings for Clare as they narrowly missed out on promotion.

MUNSTER MINOR CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 3

Cork 3-24 Clare 3-17

Venue: Dr Daly Park, Tully

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CORK Frees for: 11 (7/4)

Wides: 11 (6/5)

Spread of scorers: 8

Scores from play: 3-16

Top scorer: Craig O’Sullivan (0-14 6f 2’65)

Bookings: Michael T Brosnan (30), Bobby Carroll (62).

Own puckouts won: 20 from 34 (59%)

CLARE

Frees for: 11 (7/4)

Wides: 14 (7/7)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 3-12

Top scorer: John Barry (1-5 3f) & Liam Murphy (2-2)

Bookings: Ian O’Brien (42).

Own puckouts won: 18 from 38 (47%)

REFEREE: Ciaran O’Donovan (Tipperary)

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

GAA CLUBS in Clare have questioned the County Board on the system used to allocate championship tickets with many members across the county left disappointed.

The system used by Clare GAA to determine the number of tickets each club got for Sunday's Munster senior hurling championship first round meeting of Clare and Cork led to the longest discussion at what was a relatively short April county board meeting at Clareabbey last Wednesday.

Killanena’s Kieran MacNamara asked why his club got 63 tickets “and a neighbouring club of similar size got 98. What system was used to determine the allocation for clubs,” he asked.

Chairman of Clare GAA, Kieran Keating told delegates, “Deirdre (Murphy) sent an update to clubs today to give the breakdown of what we got. We got about 6,000

by Seamus Hayes

CLARE could hardly have asked for a tougher game in the opening round of the Munster senior camogie championship that a meeting with Cork.

The sides clash at Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg on Sunday at 11.45 in what is the curtain raiser to the Munster senior hurling clash of Clare and Cork.

In a repeat of last year’s All-Ireland, a memorable contest won by Clare, tickets for Sunday are like gold dust and it’s fair to say that the camogie sides will get to play in front of a big attendance.

For Sunday’s game against the Division 1A league champions, Clare will be without Muireann Scanlan who is facing a couple of months on the sideline after suffering a collar bone injury.

Clare have made no secret of the fact that they are chasing a place in the

and the bulk of those, over 5,000, went to directly to the clubs and the remainder went mainly to players, players' families, coaches, managers and so on and so on”.

He continued, “It’s based on a points system, depending on how many teams a club has, in that code first of all, underage hurling and football and taking account of how many players a club has on the Clare senior panel. Some clubs get more than others if they have more on the panel as we want to look after he clubs who have players on panels”.

Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy said, “It isn’t realistic to give Kilkee/Bealaha the same number of tickets as Sixmilebridge but what we have done is we have given every club two stand tickets because there are people that will need seated tickets”.

Murphy asked the Killanena delegate what club he was referring to, he replied Feakle “whom we are amalgamated

with at underage”.

“They have twice the amount of county players that ye have,” the Head of Operations responded to which MacNamara advised, “three versus two”. Feakle’s county panelists are Eibhear Quilligan, Adam Hogan and Conn Smyth whereas Keith Smyth and Ian Macnamara are Killanena’s squad members.

Keating pointed out, “They are a senior club and ye are intermediate and there is a weight in that. Adult senior teams is worth more that adult intermediate”.

Corofin’s Fergal Neylon said “would it not be wiser to share who has what points” to which the Head of Operations replied, “We don’t have time to deal with a million questions. We can share the spread sheet if ye like and if ye have a better way of doing it I am all ears”.

I response to a ticket allocation question from Ballyea secretary Fiona Whelan, Mur-

Clubs question ticket allocation system for Clare vs Cork

phy detailed that Clare GAA received less tickets this year principally due to an increase in season ticket holders. She added that even player and management requests could not be facilitated, such is the demand for tickets.

Club loans:

Letters from Feakle and St. Joseph’s Doora/Barefield GAA clubs were read to the meeting informing delegates of borrowings by the three to fund further developments at their clubs. Feakle are building a new clubhouse while Doora/Barefield have agreed to buy additional land which adjoins Gurteen.

Another team for Tubber: Tubber GAA were given permission to have an additional team this year. The club will be allowed to get a up to twenty players re-graded to facilitate this and will compete in the junior C championship. For a full round up of the County Board meeting, visit www.clareecho.ie.

Grogan, Murphy & O'Keeffe return ahead of Munster opener

All-Ireland quarter finals and their race to achieve that will begin five weeks from Sunday when they will enjoy home advantage against Wexford.

They will follow that with another home game two weeks later when Limerick will be their opponents before completing their group games with away fixtures against both Tipperary and Cork.

After the disappointment of losing the Division 1B league final to Antrim, Clare took a week off before returning to training ten days ago ahead of this fixture.

Joint captain from last year Ciara Grogan has rejoined the panel having returned from overseas while Doireann Murphy from Clarecastle and Andrea O’Keeffe from Inagh-Kilnamona have also rejoined the squad.

Roisin Begley from county champions Truagh-Clonlara is expected to link in with the squad this week having com-

pleted her hockey commitments for the season but she won’t be involved in this Sunday’s game.

Her clubmate Laura Foley who was also busy with hockey in recent months, won’t be available due to exams.

Speaking this week ahead of Sunday’s game, Clare manager John Carmody said, “We are playing a great team, one of the best the game has ever seen. They won the league in style last week. They have built a serious machine and it’s up to all the others to try and get up to their level”.

The Kilmaley club man added, “we have made no secret of the fact that our aim is to get to the quarter final of the senior championship and we will face our first game in that campaign in five weeks time. We have geared all out preparations towards peaking for that”.

l Ciara Grogan Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Evan Cleary in possession

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Caoileann Cooney and Aoibhinn Chambers of Ballyea's U13 camogie team with Tony Kelly and their new Supermac's sponsored kits

Photo by Natasha Barton

CLARE VS TIPPERARY

SCAN FOR REPORT MUNSTER U20 HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

l Michael Collins in action for the Clare U20 side

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Hayes & minors braced for Premier battle

by Eoin Brennan news@clareecho.ie

DESPITE successive wins, Clare minor footballers still have it all to play for in the final round of phase one of the Munster championship.

Clare ran out 1-22 1-10 winners over Waterford on Monday evening with Conor Burke accounting for 0-17 of this tally with a remarkable display. However, Limerick bouncing back to defeat Tipperary means both of those counties are on two points, a Limerick win over Waterford in two weeks would push them to four points as would a Tipp victory against Clare. It is certainly going to sharpen the minds for Clare according to minor manager, Joe Hayes. “Competitive games are what we want so there’s still a lot to play for in the last round against Tipperary. I mean Tipp are fighting for their lives now but despite two wins so are we as Limerick will be determined to beat

Waterford in their own patch and if Tipp can overturn us, then all three teams will be on four points which would mean that scoring difference comes into play and no-one wants that. So we have to go down to Tipp with a real focus.”

Reflecting on Monday’s 12-point victory, he stated, “Job done in terms of winning the game which is great but you might suggest that after winning a game by 12 points why am I a bit subdued? I’m not disappointed with the result, it’s just that I think we got a small bit soft in the middle of the second half and that kind of irks me a small bit if I’m honest.

“Now in saying that, these are 15, 16 and 17-year olds that are learning and developing all the time but we still have to be very wary all the time that with these new rules, you cannot afford to shut down, even for five minutes or you could get caught

MUNSTER MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMP' PHASE 1 RD1

CLARE 1-22 WATERFORD 1-10

Venue: Páirc Naomh Brid, Lemybrien

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees For: 16 (8/8)

Wides: 6 (4/2)

Scores from Play: 1-10

Spread of Scorers: 3

Top Scorer: Conor Burke (0-17 2tpf, 8f)

Yellow Cards: James Rafferty (23), Eoin Murphy (42)

Own Kick-Outs won: 12 from 18 (67%)

WATERFORD

Frees For: 17 (7/10)

Wides: 8 (4/4)

Scores from Play: 1-8

Spread of Scorers: 7

Top Scorers: Tom Lynch (0-3 1f); Aaron Curran (1-0)

Yellow Cards: Aaron Curran (52), Michael Barry (56)

Own Kick-Outs won: 14 from 28 (50%)

REFEREE: Brian Crowley (Cork)

napping,” he added.

Waterford posed plenty of challenges in the second half, he maintained. “I was actually very impressed with Waterford in the second half, they gave us plenty to think about.

"W’ve two wins from two so I’m absolutely delighted with that as this is an awful

Ladies Football: Bricks & Parish to square off in league final

KILMURRY IBRICKANE and St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield will meet in a repeat of last year’s championship and league final on Monday in the Division 1 league final, writes Páraic McMahon

Cooraclare will host the rematch on Easter Monday at 2pm with Barry Keating taking charge of proceedings.

It took a free-taking competition to determine the winners when the sides met in last year’s Division 1 final at Doonbeg where Kilmurry Ibrickane came out on the top. The Bricks again took the spoils in the championship decider on a score of 3-8 1-10.

A comprehensive 6-8 2-8 saw the champions overcome Kilrush Shamrocks to seal their return to the final.

The Parish will be eyeing up a first senior title before the departures of Aisling Reidy and Siofra Ní Chonáill for their AFLW careers. They defeated Burren Gaels 4-10 1-5 in Sunday’s semi-final at Gurteen. Also on Monday, Doonbeg face Fergus Rovers in the Division 2 final in St Michael’s Park, Kilmihil at 6:30pm while the Division 4 decider pits Corofin against Kildysart, in Coolmeen at 2pm. Banner Ladies face Miltown Malbay in the Division 1 relegation final in Inagh at 2pm.

tough place to come to and it has been a long day but we do have some things to work on over the next two weeks."

Hayes told The Clare Echo, “I thought we did very well on both sets of kick-outs again, that’s two games in a row. And that won’t always happen as there will be a day

when you won’t win all the kick-outs but that’s two in a row that we have dominated. Our scoring efficiency is okay but there have been lulls too. We let Limerick have a bit of a purple patch the last day and again today and I suppose every team will get their purple patch at some stage, we just need to limit what we concede in those periods.

Walsh has hope for future despite hard U20 campaign

CLARE’s run in the Munster U20 football championship concluded with one win from six outings, writes Murt Murphy

Apart from March 22's five-point win over Limerick in Miltown Malbay, Clare suffered defeats to Waterford, Cork, Kerry and Tipperary on two occasions in their provincial campaign.

Nonetheless, Maurice Walsh is confident and optimistic that a number of the squad will progress to the senior ranks. “We have even said it to the group that we expect at least four or five of them to play for Clare at senior level. Now we had two seniors missing at midfield (Seán McAllister and Evan Cahill), they are involved next Saturday and one lad has a dislocated shoulder. But I still believe there are four or five of those lads in the group that played tonight will play for Clare at some stage”.

Since March 8, Clare have played six championship games and Walsh believed the timeline requires a review. “Development of players is what it’s all about for us really. The two phase system is great for development. It’s a little bit long in regards to playing six games in six weeks.

I think that might have to be looked at. Listen, Kerry were excellent tonight and our lads did their best but we were not as strong as Kerry.”

He admitted Tuesday’s game was a dead rubber. “When you look at our results in relation to the other teams except for Kerry, we have done quite well. I am proud of the lads for doing that as our average scores per our last five games was 0-18 a game which is very good. Tonight we ended up with 0-11 but that was more about the strength of the opposition”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo following Clare’s 3-23 0-11 loss to Kerry, Walsh acknowledged that they were greatly hurt by Kerry’s explosive start where they kicked 2-6 in the first quarter and limited Clare to a point. “Two early goals are nearly going to decide the result for you...We didn’t start strong against Tipperary and we didn’t start strong again tonight but full credit to Kerry, they showed intent from the throw in."

Maurice continued, “We are positive despite a fair beating tonight but of this group, there are 15 or 16 underage again next year which is a huge positive and if the knuckle down,

"Conor [Burke] is an outstanding young fella and a real leader. His tackling and workrate has even been upped from last year and to score 17 points in one game, he is just a phenomenal talent”.

MUNSTER U20 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP RD3 Kerry 3-23 Clare 0-11

Venue: Austin Stack Park, Tralee

Compiled by Murt Murphy

STORY OF THE GAME

KERRY

Frees for: 9 (5/4)

Wides: 11 (5/6)

Spread of scorers: 12

Scores from play: 3-19

Top scorer: Tomas

Kennedy (1-4

Bookings: Dara Stack (49).

Red Card: None

Own kick-outs won: 8 from 12 (66%)

REFEREE: John Ryan (Cork)

because it’s all about hard work, like the best teams in the country do, then you will get the results and we are learning that up

CLARE: Frees for: 13 (9/4)

Wides: 3 (2/1)

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 5

Top scorer: Sean Fennell (0-5 4f)

Bookings: None

Own kick-outs won: 15 out of 33 (45%)

in Clare and the lads will have learnings from tonight that should stand to them against a

l Clare’s Darragh Killeen Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Newmarket-on-Fergus defender James McInerney gets away from Seán and Cormac Murphy of O’Callaghans Mills Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Clare minor footballer Conor Burke was top scorer with a whopping tally of 17 points

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

MUNSTER SCHOOLS U19 O'BRIEN CUP

ST FLANNAN'S COLLEGE 32 ST JOSEPH'S CBS NENAGH 20

Venue: UL Campus, Limerick

Referee: Andrew Bourke

ST FLANNAN’S brought their A game in defeating a well-fancied St Josephs Nenagh CBS 32-20 in the O'Brien Cup final.

Although this is only St Flannan’s second year in existence, they wanted to right the wrongs of last year's final against Hamilton’s High School, Bandon where they were beaten by a last-minute penalty.

Nenagh - a side which has won numerous competitions in recent years - started the game with a deep kick-off that Flannan’s exited. The early exchanges saw varied play from both teams as they tried to build phases, with bone crunching tackling on display.

St Flannan's were first to draw blood on the scoreboard however, with Nico Roos making great ground despie the attentions of a few Nenagh defenders. That carry gave St Flannan’s good go-forward ball which allowed Odhran Flynn to break through and score Flannan’s first try which was converted by Cian McAllister.

Nenagh from the kick-off keep the pressure on Flannan’s driving them deep into their half.

Monstruous runs from Cian O’Connor and Jamie Ryan kept Flannan’s on the front foot and a high tackle by a Nenagh player,

resulted in a yellow card and penalty kick, converted by Cian McAllister to give Flannan's a 10-0 lead.

St Flannan’s kept the pressure off with great kicking from Cian McAllister, Diarmuid Boyle and a 65-plus meter exit by Odhran Flynn from his own 5-meter line.

However as expected, Nenagh would not roll over and a scrum from the Tipperary side in the Flannan’s 22 resulted in the ball going through the hands and for a try wide in the corner, followed by a missed conversion attempt.

Nenagh's purple patch continued despite being confronted by relentless tackling from Flannan’s with big hits by Jack Dillon, Sean Maher and Darragh Fahy. Nenagh finally found a gap in the Flannan’s defensive line to sneak in for a second try, and added the two extra points.

The Clare men felt hard-done by when a Cian O’Connor tackle was deemed high by the referee resulting in a yellow card. With Cian in the sinbin, the St Flannan’s defensive line was immense in keeping Nenagh out however finally there was a penalty succession, which would give Nenagh a 15-10 half-time lead.

From the second half kick-off, the

Big win for Ennis stable

AN ENNIS stable took home one of the top prizes at the DAFM showjumping studbook series in Mullingar on Sunday. Williams Sport Horses located at PARC Stables on the outskirts of Ennis, which is run by the Williams family, had one of the big wins taking the top spot in the seven-year-old HSI DAFM studbook series which has a prize of €3400.00 and is a very competitive class.

Kildare’s Matthew Farrell was the rider on Coco Douglas, a horse that was bred by Maria Griffin from Ennis, she sold the mare to current owners Kristina and Martin O’Neill when Coco was three years old. Williams Sport Horses are producing the mare for the O’Neills. Also recording a successful finish for Team Williams was Tipperary’s Harriet Penfold who jumped clear in the fiveyear-old DAFM Stud Book Final with Grand Amour KPC.

PARC Stables is owned by Adrian and Paula Williams and was set up over 20 years ago. The yard is home to three children Rhys, Coen and Scarlett Williams. Rhys and Coen are two of the country’s most promising and successful riders boasting nine European medals, World Cup & over 20 Nations cups wins. The brothers are overseas training in the showjumping field. Leah Clarke is the groom in the stable with Gordon Hogan serving as coach and yard manager.

Bryan Murphy-coached Flannan’s side piled the pressure on Nenagh keeping them in their own half. The pressure was already telling when an attacking scrum on the 22 saw the ball going wide and Darragh Fahey worked hard to score in the corner. Cian McAllister's touch-line conversion just pulled to the side. Nenagh kept working hard to try and get a foothold in the Flannan’s half, but they continued to be repelled by the likes of Dylan Moroney, Sean Cassidy, Luke Fitzgearld and Harry O’Donoghue with brilliant jackling by Jamie Ryan

ST FRANCIS COMMUNITY GAMES

l St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games have had an extremely busy few weeks with many events finalised and teams qualified for National and Munster finals. Pictured (above) are members of the U13 county winning basketball side Ennistymon/Lahinch/Liscannor – Hayley Blount, Ellie Carroll, Una Casey, Sinead Considine, Caoimhe Griffin, Amelia Malone, Keeva O’Connor, Niamh O’Connor, Evie O’Gorman, Dearbhla Russell; (below) the U16 county chess winners, Ennis St John’s – Edwin Arackal, Jamie Enright, Julen Finnucane, Luca Huang, Thomas O’Shea, Vidhan Patil, Mick Wyse

and Odhran Flynn. Accurate line-out throwing by Paddy Ennis and a solid scrum throughout the game gave Flannan’s a great attacking platform.

From a Flannan’s scrum on Nenagh’s 10m-line, a break from Odhran Flynn had the Nenagh’s defence scrambling. Good support from Flannan’s allowed them to go through the phases, with Jack Dillion running in Flannan’s third try, with the conversion executed by Cian McAllister.

Nenagh fought resolutely to get

St Flannan's pick up Munster rugby title

back into the game, but Flannan’s did what they could to play the game in Nenagh’s half of the field. From a good attack from a scrum in the Nenagh 22, Jamie Ryan was stopped just short of the Nenagh line. Quick and accurate passing by Ruairi Keogh led to Luke Fitzgerald scoring Flannan’s fourth try with the extra two points added by Cian McAllister.

Although Flannan’s had now a bit of breathing room, Nenagh did not give up and from a mixture of their good play and a bit of Flannan’s indiscipline, Nenagh scored their third try but didn’t convert to extra two points.

With 10 minutes left and only a nine-point lead, St Flannan's had unloaded their bench and every Flannan’s player played out of their skin. A crucial penalty was converted by Man of the Match Cian McAllister with fiive minutes left to ensure the O'Brien Cup crossed the Shannon to Clare.

St Flannans Scorers: Odhran Flynn 5 (1T), Darragh Fahy 5 (1T), Jack Dillion 5 (1T), Luke Fitzgerald 5 (1T), Cian McAllister 12 (3C, 2P) Nenagh: 3T, 1C, 1P St Flannan's: 1. Nicolas Roos 2. Paddy Ennis 3. Dylan Moroney 4. Sean Maher 5. Cian O’Connor 6. Sean Cassidy 7. Jamie Ryan 8. Luke Fitzgearld 9. Ruairi Keogh 10. Cian McAllister 11. Darragh Fahy 12. Jack Dillon 13. Odhran Flynn (Captain) 14. Harry O’Donoghue 15. Diarmuid Boyle 16. Tadhg Kearns 17. Kian MacGearailt

Conor Lyons

Frankie Toner

Leo Boyle

Michael Cotter

Ciaran Sheehan

Dylan Nugent Extended Panel: Cillian McInerney; Marco Cleary; Paddy Phelan; Evan Casey; James Maloney; Jack Vaughan; Brian Lynch; Cillian Carnochan

l Ennis-bred Coco Douglas

Newmarket Celtic winger, Nathan Boaventura

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Main St, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare V95 X9C9

Take notice that Shane Considine t/a Considine Networks Ltd. intend to apply for outline planning permission for the demolition of the derelict building on site and the construction of 3 no. Townhouses in its place, connections to public services, improved entrance to 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

17 Sandycove, Mountshannon, Co. Clare, V94 T3Y8

Take notice that Maria van den Berg & Verena Glur intend to apply for retention permission for development at: 17 Sandycove, Mountshannon, Co. Clare, V94 T3Y8. The development consists of retention of shed to side of existing house.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

‘Maire Rua’, Main Street, Kilfenora Kilfenora Tidy Towns seeks planning permission for the erection of a mural on the east-facing gable end of the premises formerly known as ‘Maire Rua’ Craft shop, V95W0HA. The development will consist of a public mural approximately 7m x 5m in scale. This mural will be an abstract depiction of local historic figure Maire Rua, and comprise work by a professional artist. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Clare Conty Council during its public opening hours; and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Ballard Road, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare Take notice that Spraoi Miltown Malbay and District Community Playgroup Limited intends to apply to the Planning Authority

for permission to retain the changes made to the building as granted under P03/1267. The retention changes include the following a) increase in floor area b) windows and doors omitted / added and their finishes c) the increase in roof height d) projections omitted / added. Retention permission is also sought for the outbuildings and canopy areas. Permission is being sought to add a new extension along with ancillary site works at the above address. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS PLANNING REF: P24/438

Development Description: The construction of a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary works

Location: Ardnagla, Ballynacally, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Stephen Clohessy has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P24/438. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Ardilaun Guest House, Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare

Planning permission is being sought by Ardilaun Guest House, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare, for the extension of the caretaker/owner’s apartment to include an additional ensuite bedroom at first-floor level. The development will also include the conversion of the existing semi-basement storage area to two guest bedrooms and a games room; the conversion of the ground floor games room to a guest bedroom; conversion of attic space to four ensuite guest bedrooms; and the conversion of the existing garage to night porter accommodation. Permission is also sought for a side staircase extension, two external guest rooms in the

side garden, extension of the existing car park, modifications for ramped access, elevational changes, all associated site works, and a Natura Impact Assessment

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

Signed

SOTOPARRA architecture+design ltd

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Ballyvannan, Tuamgraney, Co. Clare V94 902V

Take notice that Gordon Queally and Jocelyn Florence intend to apply for retention permission for development at Ballyvannan, Tuamgraney, Co. Clare V94 902V. The development consists of retention of use of existing building and grounds as dwelling house and permission for (a) extension and renovations to existing building (b) wastewater treatment system (c) associated site works.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Doolin Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co. Clare

Take notice that Chloe and Kevin Walsh intend to apply for permission for development at the above address. Development will consist of an extension to the existing dwelling and all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

18 O’Connell Street, Ennis,Co Clare

Take notice that Ginos Italian Limited is applying to Clare County Council for retention permission to retain alterations to pre-existing shopfront at 18 O’Connell Street, Ennis, which is in use as a shop. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority

during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Further Information/ Revised Plans

Name of the applicant: East Cork Oil Unlimited Company Planning Ref: P24/60665

Development Description: The development applied for consisted of; planning permission is sought for the proposed works:1) removal from site and decommissioning of existing 3 no. overground fuel tanks and existing underground fuel tanks; 2) removal from site of existing washing machines facility and removal of unauthorised disused manual car wash; 3) removal of existing forecourt canopy and 4 no. fuel pumps; 4) proposed change of use from storage area to customer toilets, on the ground floor of the existing building, to include minor changes to elevations; 5)construction of new 3 no. dispenser pump islands, dispensing fuel on each side, with new canopy over; 6) installation of new underground fuel tanks, and all associated fuel pipework, off-fill points and vents and installation of new truck/HGV fuelling pump; 7) alterations to existing parking areas to provide new car parking layout, with provision of EV charging spaces and bicycle stands; 8)construction of new ESB sub-station; 9) concrete slab surfacing, asphalt surfacing and associated drainage with the provision of new Class A Petrol interceptor; 10) alterations to existing site entrances, to provide 2 no. vehicular site entrances to & from the site from public road, including alteration/extension of existing front boundary wall; 11) construction of all associated site features including public lighting and all associated ancillary site works. Planning permission for retention is also sought for the existing works as constructed: 12) existing totem sign; 13) existing signage on front and side (east) elevation of amenity building; 14) existing block boundary walls along eastern and western site boundaries; 15) existing single-storey storage rooms to rear of amenity building, as constructed; 16) change of use from tea room use to residential use to provide 1 no. apartment at first floor level, inclusive of access stairs, as constructed;17) change of use from storage areas to retail area at ground floor level of existing amenity building , as constructed; 18) existing outdoor seating areas, as constructed; 19) elevational changes to existing elevations, as constructed. Location: Existing filling

station, Bunratty West, Bunratty, Co Clare Take notice that the applicant ‘East Cork Oil Unlimited Company’ has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P24/60665. 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 alter than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Clare Technology Park, Ennis, Co. Clare Fresenius Medical Care (Ireland) Limited intend to apply for permission for development at Clare Technology Park, Ennis, Co. Clare, on a site measuring c. 0.44 hectares, for a Renal Dialysis Facility comprising:

1) The construction of a single storey building measuring c. 904 sqm gross floor space;

2) Vehicular and pedestrian access point from existing Clare Technology Park road network, associated car / vehicle parking, site hard and soft landscaping and boundary treatments; and,

3) Provision of signage, bin store, external mechanical and electrical plant and equipment, drainage infrastructure and connections to services / utilities, and all other associated and ancillary development and works above and below ground level.

A Natura Impact Statement will be submitted to the planning authority with the application.

The planning application (and the Natura Impact Statement) may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 70 C BALLYCAR ROAD, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS

Take notice that Brendan McInerney intends to apply to the Planning Authority for retention planning permission for extension constructed to existing dwelling consisting of kitchen, bathroom and bedrooms including ancillary site works and shed to the rear of 70C Ballycar Road, Newmarket on Fergus. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in

relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILLARD, DOONBEG, CO.

CLARE

Take notice that Oliver Ryan intends to apply to the planning authority for retention of existing dwelling as constructed together with rear extension and retention of part use of existing dwelling for short term tourism accommodation and for permission to construct a garage/ fuel shed along with ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

Clare County Council FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS

Planning Ref: P25/60053

Development Description: The construction of a new dwelling house and garage complete with a front boundary wall, connection to public services and ancillary works

Location: Girroga Heights, Gort Road, Ennis, Co Clare

Take notice that C and J Kelly have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P25/60053. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

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HANSON, Tom Kilrush

Wilson, Richard (Dickie) Ennis

Conroy, Bridget “Dilly” Tubber

Gunning, Colm Scariff

Hayes, Gavin Sixmilebridge

McCarthy, Nora (Baby) Ennistymon

McCarthy (née Bawnie O’Shea),

Kathleen (Catherine) Mullagh

McNamara (née Daly), Vera Newmarket-on-Fergus

O’NEILL FCJ, Sr. Mary Kilkee

Recent Deaths

Hogan (née Ryan), Celia

Inagh

O’Sullivan, Mary Quin

Haran, Michael Miltown Malbay

Keane, John

Ennistymon

Keane, John Ennis

Moroney, William (Willie) Kilfenora

Carew, John (Seán)

Shannon

Conlon, John Lissycasey

Browne(née Killeen), Maura Ennis

Carey, Anthony Ennis

Conneely(née Galvin), Elizabeth Ennistymon

Crotty, Shona Kilbaha

Doran, Alan Shannon

Jones, Cyril Miltown Malbay

O’Connell, Joseph (Joe) Lahinch

Walsh (née Doyle), Pauline Crusheen

1st Anniversary

In loving memory of a wonderful husband, father and grandfather, Enzo D'Auria whose first anniversary occurs the 19th April 2025. We won’t forget the face we loved or the memory of your smile, or the countless things you did for us, to make our lives worthwhile. You were always there when we needed you, no task too big or small, with willing hands and a heart of gold, for us you did it all. Always in our thoughts, forever in our hearts, deeply missed by your wife Nuala, your children Trofimena, Lianda, Olivia and Alfonso, your grandchildren Dean, Léa, Chiara, Théo, Andrea, Gavin, Robert, Maïa, Marcus, Lianda Jr, Seamus, and Fionn. Your brothers Mario, Alberto and Piero, your sister Ninette, your sons in law, daughter in law, nephews, nieces and extended family. First Anniversary Mass for Enzo will be held on Sunday 27th April in The Poor Clare Chapel Ennis at 11am. All welcome

The Clare Echo Quiz

row?

Kilrush Shamrocks

Eire Og

Cratloe

9. Which club won a double in hurling and football in 2014?

Eire Og

Doora Barefield

Cratloe

10. Which Clare Footballer once famously backheeled the ball over the bar to score a point?

Gary Brennan

Martin Daly

Brian McNamara

6.

Spot the Difference

weeks Answers

The team at The Temple Gate Hotel ready for the