The Clare Echo 19/06/25

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Jun 31, 19, 2024 2025 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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CLARIFICATION The Clare Echo wishes to clarify that no election expenses were recouped by candidates in the 2024 Local Elections. Any expenditure on elections by candidates, whether successful or not, were covered from their own resources, or with the support of their political party. The candidates are not, and in this case were not, reimbursed for any costs.

It was mistakenly reported in last week’s Clare Echo that successful candidates claimed expenses. The Clare Echo apologises for this error, to election candidates, local authority members and anyone affected.

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Jun 19 2025

EuroMillions winning ticket sold in Munster paraic@clareecho.ie

COULD IT BE YOU? A €250m EuroMillions ticket was sold at a store in Munster.

The National Lottery on Wednesday evening confirmed that the winning ticket was sold at a retail outlet in Munster.

Speculation began to ratchet up on lunchtime that the winner was from Clare but this was not confirmed by The National Lottery when questioned by The Clare Echo. A spokesperson said it

Bank House, Bindon Street, Ennis

Campion Insurances Limited trading as Campion Insurance, PIB Global and Bestquote.ie is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

It could be you?

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will be a matter of days before they can confirm exactly where the winning ticket was sold.

EuroMillions draws are capped at €250m meaning the winner claimed the highest amount possible and it surpasses the €175m win by the Naul Family syndicate in Dublin in 2019. The winning numbers are 13, 22, 23, 44, 49 Lucky Stars 3 and 5.

Dolores McNamara was Ireland’s first EuroMillions winner, collecting more than €115m in July 2005.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 19, 2025

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Cafés in Clare

My lovely horse

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Kilkishen’s Michael Foley keeping busy at Hughes Horse Stud Show while his son Tom Foley was busy in the show jumping arena for Williams Sport Horse, a local yard based in Parc Stables outside Ennis.

Photo by Rachel Lyons Photography

Bust of O’Regan unveiled at Council HQ

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A BUST has been unveiled of the visionary, Dr Brendan O’Regan at the headquarters of Clare County Council. Áras Contae an Chláir in Ennis now houses a bust in honour of Sixmilebridge native O’Regan who was one of the leading figures in helping the Mid-West economy get to the position it is in today.

His legacy in industry, tourism and peacemaking was marked at a private ceremony on Friday attended by elected members of the Council along with family members of O’Regan.

Also in attendance were members of the Sixmilebridge Historical Society who have been tirelessly working to ensure O’Regan’s legacy is remembered amongst young and old.

Clare County Council have announced plans to develop a dedicated exhibition space at Bunratty Castle further celebrating his life and work while the bust will remain on display at Áras Contae an Chláir.

Dr. O’Regan’s remarkable journey began in the hospitality industry, where

he developed expertise in hotel management across Europe. His appointment as Catering Comptroller at Foynes flying boat base in 1943, a key refuelling point for transatlantic seaplanes, marked the start of a career that would revolutionise multiple sectors in Ireland.

In 1947, Dr. O’Regan transformed air travel by establishing the world’s first duty-free shop at Shannon Airport. This pioneering move enhanced passenger experience and laid the foundation for the global duty-free industry.

Committed to sustainable economic growth, Dr. O’Regan founded the Shannon Free Airport Development Company (SFADCO) in 1959, leading to the creation of the Shannon Free Zone, Ireland’s first industrial free zone, which attracted foreign investment and boosted the regional economy.

His dedication to education and tourism was evident in founding the Shannon College of Hotel Management in 1951 and his visionary restoration and promotion of Bunratty Castle as a premier tourist destination. These initia-

tives highlighted his foresight in leveraging tourism as a driver of economic development.

Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Dr. O’Regan was a passionate advocate for peace and reconciliation. In 1979, he established Co-operation North (now Co-operation Ireland), fostering collaboration between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland and contributing significantly to peace efforts on the island.

Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF), Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, said, “It is a great honour to unveil this bust of Brendan O’Regan, a visionary whose tireless dedication has left a lasting legacy in Clare and beyond.

His pioneering work in industry, tourism, and peace continues to inspire us all.

We are proud to celebrate a man who whose pioneering spirit in hospitality, industry, and peacebuilding created lasting opportunities for our communities. This bust stands as a tribute to his extraordinary achievements and the enduring inspiration he provides for us all to innovate and build bridges”.

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Idle Road to Nowhere blocking development of 260 homes in Ennis

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS’ Road to Nowhere which has remained undeveloped for seven years is stopping the development of up to 260 homes.

Lands have been sterilised from development with the failure to complete the Ennis North Inner Relief Road which would link the Gort Rd and the Tulla Rd. A meeting with the Department of Transport has been sought by Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) to try progress the development of the road.

Originally, it was intended that the Inner Relief Road would link the R458 Gort Road to Oakleigh Wood and The Maples Distributor Road and onwards to the Cappahard and Roslevan Roundabouts on the R352 Tulla Road.

There has been no progress on the road since 2018 when phase one, comprising a 520m road link from the Gort Road to the Clare Technology Park, was officially opened. The road had laid idle for up to eight years prior to this with €4m spent on the project. From the beginning of the existing built road which ends at the Clare Technology Park is in part Council ownership.

It has been included in several County Development Plans as an “infrastructure safeguard” and according to the Mayor is “a vital part” of the draft Ennis local transport plan as an emerging preferred strategy. She stated, “Especially

pertinent in a housing crisis is the fact that it cuts through residential zoned lands impeding the development of same for the benefit of the people of Ennis and County Clare”.

In excess of one hectare is the footprint of the proposed link road which Colleran Molloy noted “has been essentially sterilised from development via its designation as an infrastructure safeguard”.

Access to an approximate 7.5 hectares of zoned residential lands have been cut off for one developer which would have the potential to accommodate in the region of 260 houses based on the metrics of thirty five units per hectare as set out in the County Development Plan, Clare flagged. “This area is also sterilised from development as it cannot be accessed without the road. Since access to the land is limited by the non-development of this road, request is being made by the developer to have these lands exempted from Residential Zoned Land Tax (RZLT)”.

Senior engineer with the Council, Cyril Feeney explained the route was included in the draft Ennis local transport plan and “will not be without its delivery challenges”. Its position adjacent to the Ballyalla Lough Special Protection Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation (SAC) “may considerably constrain the engineering design options for the proposed route. In addition, the railway line will have to be traversed involving a signifi-

cant increase in road elevation and will require consideration of likely noise and air quality impacts on local residents”.

He said the Council was committed to the delivery of the project, the first step of which is the local transport plan for which public consultation is underway. When this is finalised “in the coming months” a meeting with Department officials can be arranged, he stated.

There is no need to wait months to organise this meeting, Cllr Colleran Molloy stressed, “I am not accepting this needs to wait, you could start discussions now to have things in motion”. She flagged that local authorities have been told by Housing Minister James Browne (FF) “get houses built on zoned lands or get them zoned” and here is a situation where “a building is coming into Clare County Council asking for an exemption to build on zoned land, how stupid is that, we’re saying we won’t help but I’m saying we have to”. She continued, “this road is sterilising lands which could build 260 houses tomorrow”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) said a multi-tier approach is needed by the Council with planning, finance and roads departments all on the same page.

“It is known locally as the road to nowhere and it is going nowhere,” Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) remarked. Government proposals on housing have been highlighted

as “stupid” he claimed by his party colleague Eoin Ó Broin (SF). “I welcome all the motions here today

to develop and if they don’t then they are not getting income and we’re not getting housing”.

Photo by John O’Neill

putting the boot into the national government by members of the government parties, the national government is destroying every prospect we have of turning this housing crisis around so please continue to put the boot in”.

Assistance is needed for developers, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) felt, “Developers are there, their job is

Completion of the local transport plan “will put everything on stronger ground,” Director of Physical Development, Alan Farrell said.

“The overall scheme is looking at housing and infrastructure, we will look at this, we are suggesting to wait until the plan is done”.

Wastewater capacity exists in Ennis but Clareabbey plant is full

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

WASTEWATER capacity exists in Ennis and the town is not closed for business when it comes to development, a

senior official in Clare County Council has stressed.

Ennis has two wastewater treatment plants to serve the county town and surrounding areas located in Clareabbey and Clonroadmore. The

Clareabbey plant is full while capacity exists at Clonroadmore.

Both Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) and Cllr Pat Daly (FF) sought clarity at this month’s sitting of the Ennis Municipal District

regarding the capacity of the Clareabbey plant. Cllr Murphy asked Uisce Éireann to brief the Ennis MD in-person and in writing on their projected timelines, funding required or acquired to expand or improve the current network.

Senior engineer with Clare County Council, Seán Lenihan wrote to both the Uisce Éireann Director with responsibility for Asset Management and Sustainability, Sean Laffey and the Wastewater Lead for Clare, Derek O’Toole asking them to respond to the questions as raised.

Capacity in treatment plants is “a hot topic,” Cllr Murphy commented, “All we can do is write to Uisce Éireann and see what response we get from them, this is a critical issue for town of Ennis and Clarecastle.

Clareabbey is the kernel of the problem at the moment, it is at full capacity and needs to be expanded to allow for future growth”.

Sufficient water and sewage capacity are “vital for

future construction developments in Ennis and Clarecastle,” Cllr Daly maintained. “This shouldn’t be happening in a town like Ennis,” he said while pointing out live applications are dependent on getting water access from Clareabbey.

Areas like Ennis and Clarecastle are “desperately in need of new housing developments but this will really hamper us,” Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) said.

He labelled it “shocking” that allowing for additional capacity was not considered when Clareabbey wastewater treatment plant was first built.

Smell emanating from the Clareabbey has prompted Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) to make a formal complaint. He stated, “Uisce Éireann does not seem fit for purpose”.

For Clareabbey to be at capacity is “hugely frustrating,” Cllr Mary Howard (FG) commented. “We can’t build houses not because of land but because of water services and we’re in a housing crisis. We need our Oireachtas

members on board with us,” she added.

Director of Economic Development with the Council, Carmel Kirby responded, “there is wastewater capacity in Ennis, the town is not closed for business”. She continued, “Clareabbey is close to being full as a result of an extension

by Uisce Éireann”. Capacity still exists in Clonroadmore, she confirmed. “One problem in Ennis is a lot of service water is seeping in, Uisce Éireann are preparing a drainage plan and modelling it, we are expecting results from that in the short-term”.

Uisce Éireann have a traffic light system which is at red for Clareabbey, Lenihan advised.

“Any planning application granted recently which is not built are provided for in the capacity as calculated,” he said to diffuse any fears for largescale developments granted.

Uisce Éireann does require more money, he said.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 19, 2025

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Housing emerging as ‘key priority’ for new Council Chief Daly

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

HOUSING and infrastructure have emerged as “key priorities” for the new Chief Executive of Clare County Council.

Tuamgraney native Gordon was ratified as the Chief Executive of Clare County Council in March, the June sitting of the local authority was his first time at the top table since taking on the role at the end of May. Addressing the meeting, he thanked elected members and staff of the Council for a “warm welcome”. He stated, “I am very honoured to take on the role and there is no point saying otherwise”. His predecessor Pat Dowling and interim Chief Executive Carmel Kirby were acknowledged for their “significant contribution”.

He explained, “For the first couple of weeks, it has been a listening exercise, I have been meeting with senior staff and yourselves, it will continue to be a learning and listening process over the next few weeks and I will look to widen that to key stakeholders and agencies we deal with. I am conscious that we have four years left in the Council term so I want to establish the key conversations”.

For his first meeting, housing was a recurring item on the agenda as it featured in five of the nine notices of motion tabled by councillors.

Speaking later in the meeting, the former senior planner with Clare County Council said he had held “frank and honest exchanges with each Municipal District. The purpose of those meetings is to identify what the key priorities are and ensure organisation from HR, personnel and financial is pointed in the right direction”.

Daly continued, “housing and infrastructure are coming across as key priorities. I need a bit more time to reflect on how we do that”. He flagged, “it puts demands on structures because it needs more resources”.

Housing can serve as a rising tide, Daly said.

“I see housing as an enabler, housing enables rural regeneration, employment and economic

development, without housing it is hard to attract people to live in areas”. He added, “I am still considering what the key priorities are but I am getting it loud and clear on increased housing delivery”.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) welcomed Gordon back to the top table. “I wish him the best for the next couple of years, it is good to see a Clare man back as Chief Executive, I acknowledge the work of Carmel Kirby and Pat Dowling before him”. He quipped, “being from East Clare we have him in the bag, it will be all Clare going forward now but I’ve more baldy heads around me now”.

During his time as a Director of Service with Limerick City and County Council, Gordon was involved in tackling derelict housing which has included the creation of a dedicated derelict properties team in 2017. In the past five years it has carried out almost 8,000 inspections, served more than 2,800 notices and has or is planning to compulsorily acquire 300 properties in Limerick city and county.

Between 2019 and last year, Limerick City and County Council brought 326 properties back into use. It has a revolving fund where properties are put on the open market and the proceeds used to pay for compulsory purchases if the owners can be found. The vacant property refurbishment grant (VPRG), also known as Croí Cónaithe, has been a big success in tackling dereliction in Limerick, as in many other counties. There have been almost 500 applications received, of which 350 have been approved.

Twelve towns and villages in Limerick have been part of a pilot project from the Department of Housing which contributes €2.5m to proposals with the Council providing €800,000 from its own resources. Six sites in Abbeyfeale are currently being brought back from dereliction using the fund.

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‘We need to call people out’ - Fianna Fáil Cllrs slam Government over Israelis war bonds

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A COHORT of Fianna Fáil councillors in Clare have called out their party leadership and Government colleagues for failing to clamp down on the funding of Israeli war bonds.

Last week the Government defeated a motion from the Social Democrats demanding the Irish Central Bank not facilitate the sale of Israeli war bonds by 85 votes to 71.

Councillors in Clare attached to Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael were singing off a different hymn sheet to their party colleagues in the Dáil, Timmy Dooley TD (FF), Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and Joe Cooney (FG).

In a proposal before the June meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr David Griffin (FF), Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) and Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) called on Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe (FG) and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris (FG) “to investigate and instigate appropriate actions that can be taken at National and European level to prevent the funding of Israeli war bonds, and that the Government fast

track the Occupied Territories Bill into law”.

It has been 20 months since Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza in response to the Hamas-led cross-border attack on Israel on October 7th 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage. More than 55,297 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the territory’s health ministry.

Every night “the genocide in Gaza and ongoing starvation” is clear to see on the 9pm news, Cllr Hayes stated.

“We’re here debating real life and issues but there are people under a terrain of bombs and bullets each day, dealing with mass starvation and we’re complaining about our life here,” he stated.

According to the Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, the Government needs to show and not say they care about what is going on. “It seems people have become immune to death and calling people out and issues.

We fought for our freedom, a lot of people died for it but this is genocide and Europe has stood idly by and done nothing. Do we feel comfortable that so many people are dying, we need to call people out. Our Government are say-

ing they’re doing their best but they are not. Passing the Occupied Territories Bill might show we really have an interest”.

Mayor of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Colleran Molloy (FF) commented, “To think it has taken the most cruel depravity to see a recent shift in global European Union opinion is abhorrent”. Ongoing support from the US “has allowed this savagery to continue,” she claimed. “We need to be singing off the same hymn sheet,” Cllr Griffin stressed, “We need to find a way to prevent use of Irish funds in funding of genocide”.

“We can all get desensitised to what is on the TV each night,” admitted Cllr Baker Bashua. “it is not right in any society or religion to starve children or women”.

Financial instututions cannot be allowed to support the war effort, Cllr Hartigan said while stressing, “this is a moral motion. “As representatives we need to demand more than statements of concern”.

Contradictions exist in Ireland’s foreign policy if war bonds from Israel continue to be bought, Cllr McInerney highlighted. “We must be consistent, we cannot condemn breachers.. We can’t be selective in that regard”.

Photo by John O’Neill.

Politicians will be remembered for how the situation has been dealt with, Cllr O’Gorman believed. “As a human being when we look back on history we won’t be judged greatly, we all remember what Hitler has done, people said back then he got away without because people didn’t know about it at the time but the people of the world can see on TV and on their phones what is happening in Gaza”.

He continued, “It is some-

thing that shouldn’t be happening, we should all hang our heads in shame with the people in power, I know our powers are limited as a local authority but when our children and grand-children ask us what did we do, we can as councillors in Clare say we did a little bit but it is the EU and the Trumps of this world who can stop it because the Israelis won’t stop until every child and woman is killed in the Gaza Strip”.

Push back from local coun-

cillors is important, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) said while reminding the meeting he “marched for Palestine long before” the October 2023 attack.

Support was also voiced for the proposal by Cllr Conor Ryan (FG) and Cllr Michael Begley (FF), On the suggestion of Cllr Hayes, councillors and Council staff stood in solidarity and silence for forty three seconds.

History won’t remember Clare’s FF & FG TDs well for stance on Israeli War Bonds - McGettigan

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’s sole opposition TD has said the county’s other elected members of Dáil Éireann are on the wrong side of history in their refusal to support Sinn Féin’s Israeli War Bonds legislation writes Páraic McMahon.

Donna McGettigan TD (SF) has said Clare’s Fianna Fáil TDs and Fine Gael TD will not be remembered well for not going against their party at a national level.

She commented that the selling of Israeli War Bonds, facilitated through the Irish Central Bank, are being used to fund the atrocity of our times, and called on the government TDs to explain their failure to follow up their words with action, urging them to rethink and grow a backbone in the face of a genocide.

Deputy McGettigan stated, “The selling of Israeli War Bonds, facilitated through the Irish Central Bank, are being used to fund the atrocity of our times, Israel’s genocide of the Palestinian people. Twice in the past fortnight, the government has had the opportunity to vote to put a stop to it right here, right now, but on both occasions chose not to,

despite Fianna Fáil Councillors tabling a motion at Clare County Council to prevent the funding of Israeli war bonds “I listened to Simon Harris this week say that other EU member states should ‘grow a backbone’ when it comes to taking action against the barbarity being carried out by Israel in Gaza. I have to ask why the government did not listen to the Tánaiste’s own advice.

Why won’t they show some backbone? Why won’t they back Sinn Féin’s legislation to stop the sale of Israeli War Bonds,” she questioned.

According to the Shannon based Deputy, there is an onus on Timmy Dooley TD (FF), Cathal Crowe TD (FF) and Joe Cooney TD (FG) to offer an explanation. “History will show that Clare Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael TDs are on the wrong side of history here, and I believe there is an onus on them to explain to the people of County Clare why they refused to follow their words up with action. Words are not enough. The Central Bank has made it clear that, in their view, what is needed here is either EU restrictive measures - such as what they have with Russia where Russian bonds cannot be sold - or, alterna-

tively, national restrictive measures, which is exactly what Sinn Féin’s Israeli War Bonds legislation provides for.

Solutions have been put forward by Sinn Féin to end Ireland’s complicity in the sale of Israeli War Bonds and end its involvement in Israel’s genocide of the Palestinian people, she flagged. “Sinn Féin remains committed to ensuring that this state has no hand, act or part in facilitating the sale of Israeli War Bonds - money that pays for the bullets and bombs massacring Palestinian men, women and children - and it is to their eternal shame that Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil do not share that same commitment.

“Their refusal to act flies in the face of the people of Clare who, like so many across Ireland, have marched, protested, campaigned in their thousands and, with everything they have, stood up for the rights of Palestinians to live and live free. I am therefore calling on Clare Fianna Fail and Fine Gael TDs to work with us, to do the right thing and reverse this shameful government decision. It’s not too late to act, but we are running out of time”.

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An Bord Pleánala give green light for Kilkee waste water plant which had 80 objections

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

UISCE Éireann’s plans to eliminate the discharge of untreated waste-water into the Atlantic Ocean off one of the west of Ireland’s most popular beaches at Kilkee have received a major boost.

This follows An Bord Pleanála granting planning permission for Uisce Éireann’s waste water treatment plant scheme for the seaside resort and the grant overturns Clare County Council comprehensively rejecting Uisce Éireann’s planning application for the waste-water treatment plant for the seaside resort last October.

Locals have campaigned for many years for proper waste water treatment facilities for Kilkee but over 80 objections were lodged against the proposed scheme for Dunlicky Road with locals angry over the proposed location and that Uisce Éireann was proposing only primary treatment of waste water.

As part of the wave of opposition against the proposal, Kilkee resident, Sheila Lardner branded the WWTP as a

“monstrosity”.

One of those to object, Michael Duffy on behalf of the Dunlicky Road Residents Group in Kilkee described the proposal as “a disgraceful waste of scarce public resources” and will be an “open wound and eye-sore” on the local landscape.

In its grant of permission, An Bord Pleanála dismissed the recommendation of its own inspector to refuse planning permission.

Philip Davis concluded that the scheme will have a substantially positive impact on water quality at Kilkee.

However, Mr Davis recommended a refusal as the proposal by way of its location at a point highly visible from the Dunlicky Road would have an adverse effect on the visual amenities of the area, the character of the receiving landscape, and the views from the designated scenic route.

However, the appeals board stated that it did not share the view of its Inspector given that the extensive nature of the site and scale of the works would give rise

to an adverse effect on the visual amenities of the area, the character of the receiving landscape, or the views from the designated scenic route at Dunlicky Road.

The appeals board stated that it was satisfied that the development would not seriously injure the visual or residential amenities of the area or negatively impact on the landscape character or the tourism resource of the Kilkee.

A spokesman for Uisce Eireann said on Monday that it welcomed An Bord Pleanála’s decision. “This decision will allow for the development of critical infrastructure which will support sustainable growth and development, enhance the environment, and end unscreened raw sewage discharges into Intrinsic Bay, west of Kilkee.

He added, “This project is part of Uisce Éireann’s commitment to ending the unacceptable practice of discharging raw sewage to coastal waters around Ireland” “To date over 85% of these raw sewage discharges across

Cliff walk

the country have now been eliminated (this is the equivalent of 128,000 people). In Co Clare, projects to end raw sewage discharges have been completed in Clarecastle, Kilrush and Liscannor, with a further project at construction stage in Ballyvaughan.

The Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the scheme has been published. Next steps will include (among others) awaiting successful outcome of the CPO process which would allow for acquisition of land/wayleaves/ rights of way, and production

of construction/compliance documentation”.

He said that final timelines for the delivery of the project will be confirmed following this.

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Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Clare marks men’s health week with community-focused event

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

Men’s Health Week took place from Sunday, June 9 to Saturday, June 15, and Clare joined the nationwide effort to shine a light on men’s physical and mental wellbeing.

This year’s theme, “Shoulder to Shoulder – Connecting for Health”, emphasised the importance of connection, support, and taking personal and community-driven steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

To support this initiative, Clare County Councils’ Healthy Clare hosted a free Men’s Health event on Wednesday, June 12, at the Buttermarket Building in Ennis.

The event featured a broad range of speakers and topics, from physical activity and cancer prevention to sleep hygiene and mental health. Among the day’s contributors were: lJamie Fitzgibbon, gym manager at Active Ennis, who spoke about healthy eating. lJohn Carey, pool manager with Active Ennis, and Pat Sexton from Clare Local Sports Partnership, who discussed physical activity. lJohn Tracey from Clare County Council along with Micheal Collins and Cillian Keane, who focused on mental health connectivity. lTim Forde, General Manager of Clare County Council Sports and Recreation, and Bernadette Mullins from HSE Cancer Prevention, who spoke about cancer awareness and prevention. lRoisín Fouhy, Occupational Therapist, who presented on the topic of sleep hygiene.

The keynote speaker was Dr. Fergus Glynn from Ennis Medical Centre, who delivered a talk on the idea of “lifestyle as medicine.” He highlighted the significant impact that small, conscious, and sustainable choices can have on long-term health: “The focus of the talk is how small sustainable habits can have a real impact on your overall health,” he said.

“How I would like you to feel after today – I’d love you to feel a little bit excited, a little bit empowered, and a little bit emboldened about the possibility of making small, sustainable, attain-

able changes over the course of a few years to have a real impact on your health. For me it’s about maintaining well-being, well-being is the ability to do things that you value, things that bring joy to you. That’s what this is all about.”

He added, “the reason why males are more common to die of chronic health conditions comes down to our unhealthy lifestyles. More of us smoke, more of us drink

lMEN’S HEALTH WEEK: Samatha McCarthy, Clare County Council Healthy Clare Coordinator, Cllr. Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council and Ann Reynolds, Director of Services, Rural and Community Department and staff from key services involved in hosting the event Co. Clare as part of Men’s Health Week 2025.

more, more of us use recreational drugs, more of us are overweight. Use of sunscreen or health services, we’re not so good there either.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Alan O’Callaghan opened the event with a message highlighting the urgency of addressing men’s health issues: “Research tells us that men experience a disproportionate level of ill health and die too young.”

“Ireland was the first country in the world to have a national men’s health policy.

International Men’s Health Week begins on the Monday before Father’s Day and ends on Father’s Day itself.

The overall aims of the week are to heighten awareness of the health problems of males of all ages, support men and boys to engage in healthier lifestyle choices and activities, and encourage the early detection and treatment of health difficulties in males.”

Following Cllr. O’Callaghan, Ann Reynolds from Clare County Council addressed attendees: “We are here today to shed light on men’s health and wellbeing. This is not just a personal or private matter, it is a community issue, a societal issue. As Congress-

man Bill Richardson so aptly put it: ‘Recognising and preventing men’s health problems is not just a man’s issue. Because of its impact on wives, mothers, daughters and sisters, men’s health should be a family issue.’”

“By bringing this event not only to our staff but out into the community, we are reinforcing the message that men’s health is not just an individual responsibility but a collective commitment.

We’ve also encouraged open conversation and challenged outdated stigmas to create environments where men throughout Clare can seek care without hesitation or fear.”

Representatives from local and national organisations were also present, including FASD, and the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board. These groups provided guidance and information on a range of health-related topics.

Throughout the week, Clare County Council partnered with several organisations to deliver Men’s Health Week, including Ennis Medical Centre, HSE Office of Suicide Prevention, Clare Sports Partnership, Clare Local Development Company, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, Men’s Health Forum in Ireland, Mental Health Ireland, and Ennis Men’s Shed.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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News

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With cozy banquette seating in rich rust tones, soft wall panelling, and the golden glow of brass pendant lights, Shanaway Bistro is thoughtfully designed for relaxation and connection. It’s the perfect setting for everything from romantic dinners to lively family gatherings.

Dining Highlights: lEarly Bird Special – €30 for 2 Courses Treat yourself to our fantastic Early Bird menu, served seven nights a week—great value, full of flavour, and ideal for casual dining or special evenings. lSunday Carvery (12:30 – 17:00) Our traditional Sunday Carvery has become a firm favourite—enjoy a home-cooked lunch with all the trimmings, and don’t forget to save room for something sweet from our famous Dessert Trolley.

lAfternoon Tea Hosting a baby shower, birthday, or simply indulging in an afternoon out? Our beautifully presented Afternoon Tea brings a touch of elegance to any daytime celebration. Ask about our menu, which includes a nod to Clare’s rich tea heritage.

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We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Kids Club, with none other than Shamie from Kilfenora cutting the ribbon and revealing the club’s brand-new name! lComplimentary Kids Club (pre-booking required) Supervised by our hand-picked team, the Kids Club is available for: Wedding and event guests at Hotel Woodstock lCommunion parties Keep an eye out for surprise visits from very special guests—fun and memories guaranteed!

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11

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Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Chance for upgraded hospital in Ennis ‘the opportunity of a lifetime’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FIGHTING to get an emergency department for Ennis represents “the opportunity of a lifetime” for politicians .

At Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, elected members stressed the case for HIQA’s review into whether the Mid-West review requires a second emergency department to choose Clare.

Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll McNeill (FG) during a previous visit to University Hospital Limerick said she expected HIQA’s review to be completed in May but no official deadline has been set. Following a briefing with elected members in the region ahead of HIQA’s report publication, a Clare politician told The Clare Echo it was “game over” for the recommendation to be an ED for Ennis.

County councillors believe the fight is not over with a motion tabled by Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) and Cllr Shane Talty (FF) this week.

They urged the HSE to recognise that another hospital with an emergency department is required in the Mid-West. “We are calling on all concerned such as the Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Minister for Health, HSE,

HIQA, Clare Oireachtas and County Councillor members, Friends of Ennis hospital to put in place a strategy that will deliver a Model 3 or 4 hospital in the town of Ennis or a central location in the county, so that the people of Clare can experience a top-class health service for now and for future years.”

Speaking on Monday, Cllr Killeen reminded colleagues HIQA have not released their report despite recent reports in The Clare Echo and The Clare Champion referencing plans to expand capacity at UHL. He said the existing ED at UHL served 431,000 people “so almost half a million people are served by one over-stretched and overworked hospital”.

He added, “We were promised a Centre of Excellence in 2009 but we got a Centre of Confusion, Suffering, Stress and Long Delays”.

Ennis’ designation as a model two hospital “is not good enough for the 130,000 people living in the county,” Cllr Daly stated. “Hearing reports that HIQA are not recommending a second ED in the Mid-West makes you wonder are they in the real world,” he remarked.

“If there’s a few pound to be made you can be sure consultants might come to Ennis,” he added.

People living in West Clare are not within the golden hour to reach UHL, Cllr

lCHANCE FOR UPGARDE: Enis Hospital

O’Callaghan flagged as he referenced the sad passing of his sister twenty seven years ago. “Shame on the Government, we shouldn’t be begging for this,” he said.

Ennis’ medical assessment unit with 7,000 patients annually is a success, he noted.

Frustration is building in West Clare “for generations over the lack of medical services,” outlined Cllr

Shannon. “If the right decision is made we shouldn’t have an issue staffing a model three hospital”. He said, “it is a fundamental decision to determine the future of West Clare and North Clare for generations to come.

This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, we owe it to the county to fight for this”.

Clare and Ennis needs an upgraded hospital, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF)

maintained. “I hope all councillors have all deputies from their parties in line because in 2009 ye didn’t when we had the same parties in Government” Friends of Ennis Hospital were praised for their work by elected members including Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) for their “really detailed fact-checking and digging the data over some time”.

He added, “there has been

investment over recent years but not to make up for poor decision”.

“Whoever shouts loudest will get it, let’s get the ball rolling for creating the strategy and shouting the loudest,” stressed Cllr Rita McInerney (FF). The likelihood of getting from the Loop Head Peninsula to UHL in forty five minutes “is very slim,” flagged Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF). “West Clare and North Clare is really at risk of not surviving because they can’t get to medical care on time,” warned Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF).

Extra investment in UHL is not the answer, Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) said. “If I had a choice between going to hospital in Limerick or Ennis, I’d choose Ennis, I was in UHL with my mother after she had a stroke and it is not fit for humans”. The “hospital and health services is not fit for purpose in this region,” Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) said.

Government will make the decision “don’t mind HIQA”, maintained Cllr John Crowe (FG). Support was also voiced by Cllr David Griffin (FF), Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), Cllr Michael Begley (IND), Cllr James Ryan (SF) and Cllr Conor Ryan (FG).

Importance of patient advocates was underlined

by Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF) who spoke of developing sepsis in March.

600 acute beds required in region adding weight to call for new hospital

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NEW ANALYSIS details that 600 additional acute beds are required in the Mid-West strengthening the call for a new hospital in the region.

An additional 600 acute beds beyond the planned investment of 208 beds at University Hospital Limerick (UHL), new research has underlined.

Acute hospital bed requirements in Ireland from 2025 to 2040 have been analysed by Friends of Ennis Hospital (FEH) as they issued capacity projections for the same timeframe.

Nationally the ESRI projects 16,976 more inpatient beds are required by 2040, FEH calculate

this at 16,935, both citing population growth and ageing demographics.

Project 2040’s prediction that Limerick City and suburbs would see a population growth of between 50 to 60 percent by 2040 is not accounted for in FEH’s calculations.

Growing evidence is showing that insufficient bed capacity and high bed occupancy rates are linked to higher patient mortality, poor hospital outcomes and risks to the welfare of hospital staff.

In its report, FEH said, “HSE Midwest requires 600 additional acute beds above & beyond the planned investment of 208 beds in UHL. FEH does not have confidence in the

HSE to deliver the planned investment in Dooradoyle given the planning objections to the second planned 96 bed block. Therefore, a new hospital campus will be required to accommodate the 600 bed requirement HSE Midwest has a day bed capacity requirement of 305 FEH recommends that most if not all of these beds should be developed on a new hospital campus along with the additional 600 acute beds which are needed in the region”.

At present the National Capital Investment Plan allows for an additional 208 acute hospital beds in UHL of which 112 are due in 2025. UHL does not have the capacity beyond this figure, FEH have argued.

“With planning objections already filed against the next 96 bed blocks we would have concerns as to whether HSE Midwest can deliver the full 208 planned capacity at the campus in Dooradoyle.

We are absolutely certain and we understand that the HSE agree that the campus at Dooradoyle does not have space on the current campus site for the additional 600 beds needed in the Mid-West region”.

Moving the Maternity Hospital from its current site to co-locate it at UHL will according to FEH “utilise the remaining available capacity on the site”.

Increased day bed capacity is not required in the Mid-West so long as the all planned model two beds for

the region are utilised in that capacity, the FEH analysis stated. “It is therefore obvious that a new hospital on a new campus will be required for the Midwest It would be our contention that this 600 bed acute hospital should also be given most if not all of the currently planned capacity at the Model 2 hospitals giving the new hospital a day bed capacity of approximately 100 day beds. Model 2 hospitals do not have the infrastructure required to deal with patients who are acutely ill”.

Investing more in model two hospital such as Ennis Hospital is not the answer according to FEH. “It is our belief that further investment in Model 2 beds to the detriment of acute beds

makes little sense. Our acute hospital(s) will continue to have the higher levels of attendances than most other Model 4 hospitals and bed capacity in the Model 2 hospitals in the region will only function for step down or convalescent whereas the need for acute beds is greater.

“Historic underinvestment in acute hospitals has led to capacity constraints as evidenced by ageing infrastructure, large waiting lists and long waiting times for elective procedures. Only by investing in Model 4 beds in the Midwest can these issues be tackled as model 2 hospitals have limited capabilities to deal with these issues,” the report added.

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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HIQA’s report on second ED for Mid-West

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A FURTHER delay to HIQA’s major report in potentially providing a solution to overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick has seen its publication pushed back until autumn.

Commitments had previously been given by the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll McNeill (FG) that the HIQA report would be published in May, a stance that was resolute on when visiting UHL in March. It has emerged it will not be published until September.

Minister Carroll McNeill confirmed the delay in response to a parliamentary question from Social Democrats health spokesperson, Pádraig Rice TD (SD).

HIQA’s report will be crucial in deciding whether UHL will be supported by a second emergency department in the Mid-West to relieve the trolley crisis.

This delay has been viewed

in some quarters as offering a ray of hope for the emergency department to be located in Clare. A briefing with Oireachtas and European Union members from the Mid-West held a month ago had indicated the HIQA review would recommend scaling up services at UHL and continuing with the ‘Centre of Excellence’ model rather than having an emergency department in Clare or Tipperary.

Pushing back the publication of the HIQA report is suggesting a change of approach.

1,121 submissions have been received by HIQA as part of the review. A number of international evidence syntheses targeted to address relevant research questions have also been undertaken.

Reacting to the delay, a spokesperson for the MidWest Hospital Campaign stated, “The disrespect of the Mid-West continues” and labelled it as “yet another indication that the people of

lENOUGH IS ENOUGH: HIQA report delayed

the Mid-West don’t matter.

It is now one year and one month since HIQA were requested to carry out the review, in that time trolley occupancy in UHL has been 30,000 plus”.

Clare TD, Donna McGettigan (SF) objected to the delay and said the Government “continues to kick the can down the road when it comes to our failing healthcare system here in the Mid-West region”.

She said, “We were told by the minister that this report would be ready last month.

The INMO Trolley Watch recorded more than 8000 inappropriate admissions to UHL so far this year. That is 8,000 people admitted to hospital but left on trolleys awaiting a bed. It could not be clearer that a second ED is needed for the Mid-West region. Urgent investment is needed to provide these for Ennis and Nenagh hospitals and instead we are being told to wait. Enough is enough”.

News

14

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

East Clare

Replacement of mast will bring 5G coverage to Scariff

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

PLANS to replace a 30m high telecommunications mast will bring 5G coverage to Scariff, a new planning application has stated.

Vantage Towers, a former subsidiary of Vodafone, have lodged plans to replace the mast on Drewsboro Road.

Previously a subsidiary of Vodafone from 2021 to 2023, the companu is headquartered in Dusseldorf and owns and operates 82,000 towers across 10 countries. It owns 1300 masts in Ireland alone, providing infrastructure for telecommunications operators throughout the country.

This application is part of Vantage’s obligation to swap out aging telecoms structures with a replacement structure of a superior quality.

In their planning application, Vantage stated that “The current structure is aged and requires an upgrade via a swap out to a structure of equal height, more refined

l5G COVERAGE: Sacriff mast

and slimline in appearance, yet with greater structural capacity that will enable current occupiers to deploy their respective licensed technologies”.

The current tower is used by companies such as Vodafone and eir to provide communications in the area. “Failure to progress this

installation in the planned location negatively impacts Vodafone networks, leaving customers in the area with reduced voice and data mobile service”. They also pledged that the project would substantially improve mobile services in the area, as well as improving services along the lo-

cal road network. Eir mobile and Vodafone have issued separate letters in support of the development as part of the application.

There are potential for environmental objections due to the proposed development’s location along the R352, which is described as “a scenic route that runs through Scariff ”.

In response to this, Vantage Towers outlined “The structure is intermittently visible as one approaches from the south, and less so when approaching from the north. In both events the structure does not meaningfully impact on the amenity value of the scenic route”.

Vantage Towers have cited the National Broadband Plan, National Development Plan and Clare County Development Plan as justification for the development as they feel it would have a positive impact on communications in the area.

The planning department will decide on the development by the August 2nd with submissions accepted until July 12.

Quiz in memory of Paddy Hassett raises €8k for Milford Care Centre

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

OVER SIXTY TEAMS took part in a recent table quiz in memory of the late Paddy Hassett.

At the end of May, the Grove Bar and Restaurant in Roslevan was the setting for a table quiz which celebrated Paddy’s life but also raised funds for Milford Care Centre.

In fact, a total of €8,407 was raised for Milford Care Centre with the cheque presented to Anne Marie Hayes by members of the Spancil Hill Fair Committee and the Hassett family.

Paddy had been a leading light in the Spancil Hill Fair Committee since its formation. He was an excellent veterinary surgeon, passionate about hunting and poetry, a jockey and a fine hurler who played won a Fitzgibbon Cup with UCD in 1964.

He consumed books on Irish history and had a keen appetite for the poetry of WB Yeats, Seamus Heaney and Patrick Kavanagh while he was known to mark any local success or events of note with a new poem.

Enjoy the garden with these summer tips Well with the weather improving all the time its such a joy to be in the garden this time of year so make sure and have your deck chairs at the ready and enjoy.

A few tips for ye with this lovely spell of weather. With the warm breeze the pots can dry out a little bit quicker so keep an eye on them. The pots will be glad to see a feed every two weeks. Especially for the annuals bedding plants this helps them bloom longer and the bud to rebloom again. Make sure to clean away leaves that have faded or crinkled and take away fallen flowers .

At this time of year rose plants have gone off flowering and need to be deadheaded and cleaned up. I know the green fly has been busy too so they may also need a treatment.

The good news is roses are good to continue blooming right into Autumn and the scent off some roses is quiet something.

Shrubs are also doing well this year, we have Hypericum just coming into flower commonly know as St Johns worth lovely lust yellow flowers. Spirea is in full bloom with a selection of shade of pink and white at the moment. Pointella another of my favourites comes in a yellow pink and red colour so it’s possible to have a mix of colour between shrubs and perennials. Hydrangeas are very popular ever year and have such a splendid

show of colour it’s hard not to add one to the garden.

With so much to choose from it’s hard to know when to stop and when to keep adding to beds. Once you keep on top of pruning the plants and dividing if required you can keep the beds or borders looking lovely.

We have a lovely selection of planters and hanging basket available and they are great gift for yourself or others and with schools finishing we have some lovely teacher’s gifts available. Thank you flower can be such a special treat.

If you need any advice on an area pop in for a chat and we will do our best to help with it.

We are continuing some sale items and have some multibuy offers in the garden centre over the next few days.

Happy Days, hope ye have a fantastic week enjoy the garden.

15

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 19, 2025

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16

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Kilrush RFC lodge Labasheeda broadband plans for walking rollout nearly complete track and floodlights West Clare

OVER 1,600 West Clare properties will soon be able to connect to highspeed broadband network under the National Broadband Plan.

National Broadband Ireland (NBI), the company delivering the new future-proofed, high-speed Fibre-to-the-Home has said that its Labasheeda deployment will soon be conncted. This includes the rural areas and townlands such as Kilmurry, Kildysart and Kilmihil.

23,000 premises in County Clare are included in the State’s Intervention Area, with NBI’s infrastructure capable of delivering minimum broadband speeds of 500 megabits per second to homes, businesses, farms, and schools.

As the biggest investment in rural Ireland since rural electrification, County Clare will receive €89m of Government investment under the National Broadband Plan.

As part of a nationwide acceleration of the National Broadband Plan, 1,615 premises near Labasheeda are set to benefit from earlier access to high-speed fibre broadband. These homes, farms, and businesses are among 32,000 premises across Ireland that have been brought forward from 2026 to 2025 in National Broadband Ireland’s delivery schedule. Rural homes, farms and businesses in the Labasheeda deployment will now be able to place an order for connection to the NBI™ network in the coming months.

Network build works are also underway along the west coast of Clare, covering 5,277 premises

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

BROADBAND: Rollout near completion for labasheeda rural areas

across the Loop Head peninsula and rural areas near Kilrush and Miltown Malbay. These premises are on track to be ready for connection in the second half of 2026.

Works have already been completed in other parts of Clare including the rural surrounds of Corofin and Kilkishen. There is a total of 12,790 premises that can now pre-order or order highspeed, reliable broadband across the county with 5,075 connections made so far. The easiest way to get updates on when a home or business will be ready to order is by signing up for NBI email alerts at nbi.ie/eoi/.

Peter Hendrick, Chief Executive Officer, National Broadband Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to

be entering the final phase of delivery in the Labasheeda deployment area, where 1,615 homes and businesses will gain access to highspeed fibre broadband in the coming months.

“This will be an important milestone for the area, enabling remote working, online learning, and digital services for local communities. We’re encouraging everyone living in rural parts of County Clare to check their Eircode and place an order as soon as services become available.”

‘Hatchet trumps hurley’ - remarks judge over Killimer confrontation

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

“HATCHET trumps hurley,” commented a judge after hearing that a 22 year old man who went to confront another male at his home armed with a hurley was met by the man armed with a hatchet.

At Kilrush District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett told West Clare man, Nathan Downes “put the hurley away and call the Gardaí the next time”.

Judge Gabbett told Mr Downes of St Michael’s Place, Kilmihil that “taking the law into your own hands is not ideal”.

In the case, Mr Downes pleaded guilty to producing a hurley in the course of a dispute outside a house at Doonagurroge, Killimer contrary to Section 11 of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act on January 19th 2024.

Giving an outline of the case against Mr Downes, Sgt John Burke said that Mr Downes was in dispute with another man and on arriving at his home waved the hurley around unlawfully.

Sgt Burke said that the incident was captured on CCTV and that Mr Downes has no previous convictions.

Solicitor for Mr Downes, Patrick Moylan

said that there was a background to the incident. “Mr Downes’s father had been accosted earlier by this person. Mr Downes’s father is very ill. He has COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and uses a nebuliser five times a day”.

Mr Moylan said that Nathan Downes “took the unwise route of going to the man’s home and verbally accosted the man at this house”.

Mr Moylan said that this man was a far more serious person than Mr Downes had bargained for and the CCTV showed the person at the house with a hatchet.

Mr Moylan said that Mr Downes did have a hurley in his possession at the house and has pleaded guilty to that offence.

In response, Judge Gabbett remarked, “Hatchet trumps hurley”.

Mr Moylan said that his client apologises.

Judge Gabbett said that he would strike out the weapons charge if Mr Downes paid €200 to the court poor box or Court Discretionary Fund (CDF).

Striking out the charge after Mr Downes paid over the €200, Judge Gabbett said, “I am conscious of your future. A conviction has serious consequences. It is really serious.

This is your first chance-last chance. If you

KILRUSH Rugby Club has announced plans for a walking track and flood lighting at its pitch close to the West Clare town.

The club celebrated its 100th anniversary last year and plays games at its two pitches in Moanmore, just north of Kilrush.

The club has applied to Clare County Council seeking planning permission to construct “a 2.5m wide walking track”, lit by 6m high lighting poles around the proposed track. Kilrush RFC is also seeking permission to replace its existing timber and galvanised floodlighting with new 15m lighting poles and install new club signage at the front gate. These developments come after East Clare counterparts Scarriff RFC recently lodged plans for a padel facility at their grounds.

Operating times at the walking track are expected to be from approximately 5.00pm to 9.30pm from March to September each year. The proposed new club signage will feature the club crest in purple and gold, complete with the motto ‘Nemo Me Impune Lacessit, No One Attacks Me with Impunity.’

Like other sporting organisations in the west of the county, Kilrush RFC has suffered heavily from a declining player base in recent years and now focuses on creating a strong underage structure.

The club has established an adult junior team, its first in five years as it aims to rejoin the Junior League.

It states on its website that the “Plans to install LED floodlights on the second pitch underscore the club’s commitment to enhancing its facilities. The ultimate goal is to create a strong, sustainable rugby program that serves both the club and the community”.

The proposed lighting columns for both pitches will have four fittings on each, composed of modern LED lighting with shielding in place in order to reduce light pollution on the surrounding area. The proposed lighting is in line with IRFU guidelines for “mid-level competition and high level training”.

The planning application states that the proposed walking track will be “used by a variety of ages and skill levels and will be of great benefit to the wider community as a recreational attraction”.

Clare County Council has until the July 29 to make a decision on

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17

Ennis

‘Fix the mistakes’ - frustration remains high in Hermitage two years on from surfacing job

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SURFACES of the roads and footpaths of Hermitage are in an “acceptable condition” according to senior engineers in Clare County Council despite ongoing complaints for close to two years following a resurfacing job.

Hermitage residents have been left frustrated since August 2023 when a three-day job to resurface the roads resulted in what they have described as “atrocious” work which has “destroyed” the area.

High costs involved have been repeatedly flagged by senior officials in the Council in response to criticisms and requests for the removal of the existing concrete roads.

Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) herself a resident of Hermitage called on the Ennis Municipal District to complete “a full review of the deteriorating condition of road and footpath surfaces in the Hermitage area. Residents have raised ongoing concerns about exposed concrete, uneven surfaces, and trip hazards along footpaths”.

She said the road surfacing completed in 2023 “has proven inadequate in several areas, with visible signs of wear and poor-quality finishing. In addition, the footpaths were coated with a material that has since cracked and developed potholes”.

Acting senior executive engineer, Paddy Tiernan acknowledged many of the roads in Hermitage “benefited from surface treatment in 2023. At the time some residents expressed displeasure with respect to the material used. However the

material has since bedded in and in general it is our opinion that the roads in the Hermitage area are in an acceptable condition. Other localised issues with respect to water ponding have also been addressed”.

Commitments to carry out an additional survey were given but he flagged “(I) must caution, and as previously advised, it will be extremely difficult to obtain the level of funding required for full removal and replacement of existing concrete roads. With respect to the damaged footpaths, we commit to carrying out a survey at the earliest juncture and where warranted will replace or repair any sections of defective footpaths. I can confirm a certain level of funding is available for such works”.

Speaking at the June meeting of the Ennis MD, Cllr Baker Bashua said she was “so not happy” with Tiernan’s reply and that the conditions were unacceptable under health and safety alone. She said she was elected last year with a mandate but is at risk of losing the trust of the public if she cannot sort out an issue outside her front door.

“The road just isn’t fit for purpose, the people who laid the surface did not do it properly,” she stated and urged the Council to get the company responsible to come back and “fix the mistakes”.

In March of last year, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) tabled a motion on the same subject and seconded the latest proposal. “The residents have been very displeased with the end result,” she commented while acknowledging the “cost issues”.

Questions were raised of the “monetary value to do a certain

way versus what is done” by Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF). He said he walked the road and has spoken to unhappy residents.

According to Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) “the road surface is not befitting of our established estates or any estate, if we have to do sections in concrete so be it”. He continued, “It wasn’t finished or laid the correct way, water was pooling the day after thy finished where water never pooled before”.

Tarring the road was touted before in response to a motion by Cllr Pat Daly (FF), he reminded the top table. Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) also lended his support to seeing the surface improvements completed.

Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) sympathised with her colleague, “This is in your own backyard, it is not

good enough, if we’ve an unhappy elected representative then we need to fix this”. She compared the work done in Hermitage with that in St Michael’s Villas and said she had no criticisms from residents in St Michael’s Villas. “The tar is used all over the country by local authorities so is this a case that the job was not done right,” she asked. Cllr Guilfoyle interjected to flag that St Michael’s Villas residents had expressed frustrations.

“It is hard to sit here and say we can ignore it,” the senior engineer told councillors. Had tar been used it would have resulted in water getting shoved onto people’s property and posed a risk of cracking walls or the grotto “if costly or expensive,” he explained.

“This surface chosen because we’ve used at glor library and it gets

lFIX THE MISTAKES: Hermiatge roads

more traffic so it has bedded in, it is used in Shannon, Galway, Limerick and everywhere,” Tiernan stated.

“The two communities we’ve used the surface in are older Council estates with concrete roads, we are trying to extend longevity of the roads. The road in my opinion is functioning. There are bits of grit at St Michael’s Villas which we expected would bed in. I don’t think there’s a health and safety issue from an engineering perspective but maybe I need to look through someone else’s eyes”.

Tiernan said he would visit the area with Cllr Baker Bashua to “try come up with a long-term plan suitable toe everyone but it will be a massive challenge to fund this, I can’t walk away and say it will be solved in twelve or twenty four months”. He added, “I won’t shy away from meeting residents, we took heat in St Michael’s Villas but that is our job. I don’t have a solution”.

Responding, Cllr Baker Bashua said she was not expecting the senior engineer to solve it on his own, she was not blaming him but depending on him to fix it. By Guerin’s old shop there is a gap where someone can twist an ankle, she warned, “they may not break neck but in an ageing community the recovery is slower”. She asked the Council to try do improvements in stages.

“This is not going to go away, I’m getting this every day, I might get a great outcome on something in the Council but when I go back to my own neighbourhood and people are pointing this out to me. There is nothing wrong with the surface, it is the workmanship”.

‘We never know when they’re needed’ - request for audit of lifebuoys in Ennis

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A NEW risk assessment on the presence of lifebuoys at known fishing sites, swimming areas, bridges and river banks across the Ennis Municipal District has been sought.

Calls for the Ennis MD to conduct “a comprehensive survey of all local waterways and install lifebuoys at every suitable location” were made

by Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF).

Senior executive engineer with Clare County Council, Brendan Flynn outlined that the local authority “several years ago” along the River Fergus “arranged a risk assessment of ring buoys

through Water Safety Ireland”.

He did not specify when this was completed but noted “all ring buoys identified in that risk assessment are still in place and are inspected by Clare County Council staff on a weekly basis. Any issues identified are dealt with immediately”.

Flynn added, “In addition, a local risk assessment was carried out recently along the Clareabbey River Walk from the Quin Rd to Clareabbey and ring buoys were subsequently installed”.

Seán Lenihan, SEO in the Ennis MD encouraged elected members and the public to contact the Council if they “are aware of any missing life-

buoys or of locations that they feel should be covered”.

Dislodged lifebuoys in the town came into focus for Cllr Guilfoyle during a recent kayaking trip on the River Fergus. He asked when the next risk assessment would be completed and appealed to the Council to use their social media accounts to encourage the general public to point out areas that they feel lifebuoys should be installed.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) outlined that her teenage son has started to fish and it brings a worry for parents, “you are wondering if they will be safe and if a lifebuoy can be thrown to them if

needed”.

Describing the request as “incredibly important,” Cllr Mary Howard pointed out, “We’re surrounded by water in Ennis. We’re well served with locations but more will be needed”. She said lifebuoys are replaced within hours when reported. “I cannot stress enough the importance of people not interfering with them because the people taking them will never know when they are needed”.

An experience of getting caught by a wave in Luton was recalled by Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), “I was lucky to come back and it is something you never forget”. He voiced anger with the “shocking” re-

cent events in Dublin where people videoed a swimmer in difficulty as opposed to helping them.

Water safety is “critical,” Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) emphasised. “I’ve seen them interfered with which is not good enough”.

Addressing councillors, Lenihan explained that the “risk assessment is done on a periodic basis” but flagged there was nothing to stop people reporting when they notice missing lifebuoys which can be done via Water Safety Ireland’s “useful app”.

Concluding the discussion, Cllr Guilfoyle highlighted that the River Fergus “goes all the way through town” and

repeated his request to “raise this on social media, tell the public to respect them and see where we want more”.

Local authorities are granted powers in relation to a range of amenity and recreation functions under Part 9 of the Local Government Act, 2001. Section 67 of that Act enables local authorities, inter alia, to provide facilities and services related to the promotion of public safety, including water safety. Usually, the services provided by local authorities include the provision of lifeguards, water safety equipment (such as ring buoys and other equipment/ appliances), swimming and bathing places for the public.

18

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Tom Flanagan was Council meeting adjourned as mark of Late devoted to his Ennistymon respect to former lifeguard Éanna family & greyhound family

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council’s June meeting was adjourned for fifteen minutes as a mark of respect to Éanna Rouine and his family, he had worked as a beach lifeguard with the local authority.

Proposed by Cllr Shane Talty (FF) who had been one of the central figures involved in traffic management and ensuring a smooth running during the Éanna’s funeral which was the biggest ever seen in North Clare, the adjournment saw the June meeting suspended for quarter of an hour.

Cllr Talty noted that Éanna was an employee of the Council as a beach lifeguard in Bishop’s Quarter, Fanore and Lahinch prior to “his tragic passing”. He extended a vote of sympathy to the Rouine family of

Lahinch and the O’Gormans from Liscannor.

He also acknowledged the attendance of the Mayor of Clare, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) and newly appointed Council Chief Executive, Gordon Daly at the funeral while praising staff in the Ennistymon office “for making things run smoothly” from a traffic management perspective on the June Bank Holiday weekend.

This was seconded by Cllr Michael Shannon (FF).

Votes of sympathy were also extended by Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) to the Collins family on the death of Jim, a brother in law of Cllr Pat Daly (FF).

Cllr Mary Howard (FG) acknowledged the deaths of Olivia Tuohy and Phil O’Regan in Ennis while Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua extended her sympathy to Cllr David Griffin

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

(FF) on the death of his grandmother Mary Griffin in May. Subsequent to Éanna’s death on May 27th, a book

of condolence was opened

by Clare County Council at their headquarters in Ennis and the Ennistymon office in his memory.

THERE was much sadness when the news came through of the passing of Tom Flanagan from Ennistymon who was laid to his eternal rest on Saturday.

Tom adored his greyhounds and was ever present at Galway and Limerick Stadiums and the coursing stretches of Co Clare.

Flandy a track record holder in Galway and Spinning Top were his pride and joy on the track and were exception brood bitches. He started Seaglass Phantom off as a pup who went on to went the prestigious ROGTV Juvenile Derby in the UK and on the field recent stars such as Dromoher Ivy and Clareabbey Flyer come to mind.

Tom will be sincerely missed by all who knew him within the sport of greyhound racing.

His loss is deeply regretted by his wife Stella (nee Collins), daughter Ann Marie, son Brian, son-in-law Derek, grandchildren Megan, Ryan & Robert. He is sadly missed by his sisters Nora, Dolores, Anne and

Róisin, brothers Michael & John, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends, particularly Tom’s ‘Greyhound Family’ for which he was devoted to.

lRIP: Tom Flanagan

19

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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Regional News

Shannon

Irish students fly to U.S. after winning NASA-founded space design competition

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

FIVE students from St Flannan’s College in Ennis, County Clare, departed Shannon Airport today en route to Orlando, Florida, after claiming first place in a global space design competition established by NASA. The students; Alex Furey, Damian Woros, Najib Haq, Gavin Shiels, and Ahmed Ibrahim, travelled to Chicago o morning before continuing to Orlando, where they will present their award-winning design at the International Space Development Conference (ISDC). The annual event, organised by the National Space Society, brings together leading figures and enthusiasts from across the space exploration and development sectors.

The group will be joined in Orlando by Shreya Mariya Saju and Lexie McKenna of St Dominic’s College, Cabra, Dublin, who collaborated on the winning project: a concept for a next-generation space habitat named Inis Beatha—meaning “Island of Life.” The innovative design features artificial gravity and hydroponic systems that allow plants to grow without soil, creating a closed-loop environment capable of sustaining life by recycling food, water, and oxygen.

Speaking at Shannon Airport ahead of departure, St Flannan’s physics teacher John Conneely expressed his pride in the team’s accomplishment.

“Winning first place in the senior catego-

l LIFT OFF: Alex Furey, Gavin Shiels, Ahmed Ibrahim, Damian Woros and Najib Haq.

ry of this year’s NSS Space Settlement Contest—competing against more than 26,000 entries from schools around the world—is an extraordinary achievement. We’re incredibly proud of our students and deeply grateful to Shannon Airport for supporting this oncein-a-lifetime opportunity.”

He also praised Shannon Airport’s historical significance in aviation and innovation: “From receiving the first transatlantic passenger flight 80 years ago to recently hosting Ireland’s first Advanced Air Mobility aircraft, Shannon has always been a symbol of forward-thinking. It was even designated as an alternate landing site for the space shuttle, making it a fitting departure point for our students’ journey to the ISDC.” Tim Ryan, Group Head of Brand & Marketing at The Shannon Airport Group, welcomed the students and commended their efforts.

“We are thrilled to support the St Flannan’s College team as they travel to this prestigious international event. These students exemplify the exceptional creativity and ambition emerging from this region. Their achievement is a source of immense pride not only for their schools but for Ireland as a whole.”

The students are set to present their work in front of global leaders in space science, engineering, and policy at the ISDC, showcasing Irish innovation on an international stage.

Two new appointments to the Shannon Airport Group board

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TWO APPOINTMENTS have been made to the board of the Shannon Airport Group.

Director of Brand Strategy at X, Emily Ross and chartered accountant Mary Halton have been appointed to the board of the Shannon Airport Group by Minister for Transport, Darragh O’Brien (FF).

Chairperson of the Shannon Airport Group, Conal Henry said Mary and Emily “bring a wealth of experience, fresh perspectives, and valuable insights that will support our continued growth. This is a pivotal time for the future of aviation and sustainable connectivity in Ireland, with an urgent need to update Aviation policy to maximise the use of existing capacity in airports and deliver on Government’s commitment to balanced regional development”.

He added, “Together with the Board, CEO Mary Considine and all the team at The Shannon Airport Group, l look forward to working with them to continue shaping

that future”.

Emily is currently responsible for Europe, the Middle East and Africa known as the EMEA region in her role as Director of Brand Strategy where she leads a global team.

Prior to this, she was CEO of a strategic consultancy firm for deep tech startups and scaleups. Emily has served as a director at UNICEF Ireland, managing major partnerships with companies like IKEA and Aer Lingus. She is an advisory board member of GoGreen routes, an EU funded, pan-European research project on mental health.

She has been an advisory board member for SXSW in Austin, Texas, since 2018.

She is a startup mentor for Techstars London and the National Digital Research Centre. She mentors female founders at AwakenHub and is a founding member of KELLA, the women’s leadership forum. She also mentors startups and female founders and frequently writes and speaks on digital communications.

Emily has been based in Killaloe and co-founded the Resonance Festival in 2022 with Steve Coakley,

lNEW APPOINTMENTS: Left-Mary Halton, Right-Emily Ross

Carmel Doolan which takes place on the shores of Lough Derg.

Chartered accountant Mary has

senior executive, non-executive, and advisory experience gained in the UK, Canada, and Ireland. She

is an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chair of the Risk Committee with Vhi Group. She is a lay member of the UK Copyright Tribunal and a past member of the Governing Council of Chartered Accountants Ireland.

As owner and board advisor with Align Consulting Ltd, she has worked with boards and senior teams in the public and private sectors. With a background in banking and insurance, her executive work is in the treasury and investment area. Mary holds a PhD in Public Policy, and an MSc in Executive Leadership, and her research on board governance has been published internationally.

Existing board members include the Chair Conal Henry, CEO Mary Considine, employee representatives Audrey Costelloe and Alan Donohoe, PwC market leader Aisling Curtis, ex CEO of AerCap Tom Kelly, former Group Editor-in-Chief at Independent News & Media Stephen Rae and Ambrose Loughlin who was a partner at the legal firm McCann FitzGerald for 22 years.

20

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Gort and South Galway

Portumna rallies to protect forest park PORTUMNA’s community spirit continues to shine in 2025 as local residents and volunteers remain committed to protecting Portumna Forest Park — one of the town’s most treasured natural resources located on the shores of Lough Derg in South East Galway.

The Protect Portumna Forest Park community group has been at the forefront of this effort, advocating for transparency, community inclusion, and environmental protection amid proposed development plans by Coillte.

This year, the group successfully completed a fundraising campaign on iDonate, raising €3,000 to support their work in community outreach, awareness-raising, and printing of key documents — including the results of a major community survey with over 1,000 respondents.

A series of significant engagements followed early in the year. On January 20th, group representatives met with East Galway TDs and County Councillors to present their concerns and survey results. Just two days later, they met with Coillte’s Project Managers to share the same data and advocate for responsible, community-informed planning.

Despite these early efforts and a continued willingness to engage, the group now expresses deep disappointment at a recent discovery: a new consultant appointed

by Coillte has been meeting with individuals and groups

locally, yet Protect Portumna Forest Park community group has not been included in this new round of consultation.

In a follow-up email sent this week to Coillte project managers (Head of Recreation, Development Manager and Head of Land Sales), the group wrote: “We are extremely disappointed that our group has not been included in this new phase of consultation — particularly given our active involvement to date, including organising and presenting the results of a significant community survey… It is disheartening to feel excluded from what appears to be an important stage in the development and consultation process.”

The group reiterated its call for: l A clear timeline and next steps for Coillte’s development plans. l Information on restoration following Storm Eowyn. l A transparent explanation of how the community survey feedback is being considered.

To date, no response has been received to the group’s earlier emails in February, March, or June — an ongoing lack of communication that has added to local frustration.

Meanwhile, the group continues its work. Three community meetings have been held so far this year (January, February, and May), along with a collaborative session with the groups Friends of the Forest volunteers in Feb-

lPROTECT FOREST PARK: Protect Portumna Forest Park volunteer group

ruary. A detailed flier outlining the community survey findings was distributed in Portumna and surrounding areas, and a community notice board in SuperValu Portumna now proudly displays those findings — alongside the St. Patrick’s Day Parade Perpetual Trophy in honour of the late Donie O’Meara, which the group won for Best Float.

Efforts to keep key local stakeholders informed were also made in April, when formal letters were delivered to Portumna Golf Club, Portumna Chamber, and Portumna Town Development.

These outlined the community survey results and urged support for the forest park’s

Motorcyclist injured in Tubber two-vehicle collision

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A MOTORCYCLIST has been injured following a two-vehicle collision in Tubber on Sunday.

Serious but non-life threatening injuries were sustained by the motorcyclist, a man in his forties who was airlifted to University Hospital Galway.

At approximately 12:30pm at Killourney on the R460

between Tubber and Gort, the two vehicle collision involving a car and a motorbike occurred. The driver of the car was uninjured.

Emergency services attended the scene soon after, the road was closed for a technical examination, but has since reopened.

An investigation is ongoing but Gardaí have appealed for witnesses to come forward. “Any road users who may have camera foot-

age (including dash-cam) and were travelling in the area between 12:00pm and 12:40pm are asked to make this footage available to investigating Gardaí. Anyone with any information is asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 6848100, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station

protection, making clear that the community opposes accommodation development within the park. Instead, the top five wishes from the 1,095 survey respondents were: 1. 69% – Upgrade Toilet Facilities 2. 52% – Expansion of Wildlife Habitats to Promote Biodiversity 3. 48% – More Benches or Seating Areas Along the Trails 4. 43% – Increased Signage for Easier Navigation 5. 42% – Enhanced Maintenance of Existing Trails and Infrastructure These priorities reflect a community vision rooted in nature, accessibility, and

sustainability — a vision that calls for investment in enhancement, not exploitation, of one of Portumna’s most valued natural assets.

In May, the group joined the GRD Nature Network Launch, and in June, they attended the “Voice of the Shannon” talks — that highlighted the importance of native forestry for water quality, as monitored by the Local Authority Water Programme and the Environmental Protection Agency.

These issues are especially relevant for Portumna, as its forest park is the only forest on the shores of Lough Derg, making it a crucial asset in the protection of local biodiversity and water systems.

Earlier in the year, representatives also took part in the Portumna Town Trail consultation with Galway County Council architects, ensuring the forest park remains integrated in the broader town development vision.

There is growing concern in the town over the perceived direction of the forest park’s proposed development — especially given the availability of other suitable alternatives. One local resident voiced their frustration, saying: “The town of Portumna has a derelict hotel site whose boundary backs directly onto the forest park.

It’s a no-brainer — this is where Coillte, Fáilte Ireland, and Galway County Council should be focusing their energy if they’re serious about tourist accommodation.

Why should the forest park be the sacrificial lamb when there’s a site crying out for development that already has tourism potential written all over it?”

Despite challenges, the message from the Protect Portumna Forest Park community group remains clear: they are committed, organised, and ready to collaborate. What they ask in return is basic transparency, meaningful engagement, and inclusion in all decisions that will shape the future of a space they — and many others — hold dear. To support this group follow them on Facebook or donate to their cause on iDonate.

June29, 19,2025 2025 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, May

24

Columnists

21 17

Thursday, May 8, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Contributors Contributors

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

Thought for the week: Thought for the week: Thought for the week: cherishing life Macalla an Chláir Path to Wholeness

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It’saoften, easy to get day’s youth face vibrant strive to seize each without appreciation. ly, laugh pray to joy and gratitude. tance of following instructions brought me comfort during exam bring others down with God’s presence THOUGHT and blessings, as our work, we must fi rst be transhope, joy, prayer, peace and faith tional truths: everything FOR THE caught up in the rush day, asking ourselves yetformed demanding world, Many find themselves constantly and savor As Benjamin Franklin them.

However, lifestillness, is before and thinking divtime: ‘HolytoSpirit, send your powwe ends, learn waitWEEK patiently for His prayer.

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We arecontrol, here to notel,ties and is not always for the week, take alife the story success came from have learnt, inspire me with the become the ones we on God, while solitude during my many times with her away.

Ultimately, is land and sacred ground. such as the weather or of you who read this and taxes”, but recent and the uncertainties of the future. embrace and action cherishbut from fair.takThesegift realities to reflect on once the reminded wish we could relive. rushing into ofparticuAmen!’

Let’s frees usKnowledge. from themoment patterns that hinme that the world about making it meangossip.

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Together, needs God, not just theology.

This to prolonged periods of your life and the lives advancements, many isolarly the recent enough lenges, and grow fromof us feel sometimes feel overwhelming, not alwaysthis in control of er years, a time before make the most of every and cherishing every sadness, where individuation fully. challenging time, wishing these disciplines form a powerful truth has guided my work and life of others with gratitude, COVID-19 pandemic, lated.

We may be surrounded by our experiences.

Sharour destinies. Despite worries took hold. leading to struggles withthese anxiety single day—love deepmoment. uals may unintentionally especially during Injoy our fast-paced world, it’s easy them allface, the best adult as they embark triowe that strengthens our spiritual journey over the years.

Daily stillhave highlighted addiscreens and virtual connections, ing can uplift those the difficulties Life moves quickly, ly, laugh often, pray and mental health.

Yet, the reothers down a with worryingsolitude times. Let us prayer tional everything THOUGHT FOR tobring overlook details and rush intoistruths: on this important journey. lives.

Th ey help us seek God’s will,THE ness, silence, and around us,fulfi creating but true llment comes from there hope that these and being present issilience constantly and savor and optimism of young them.

However, life is remember those whose changes and ends, WEEK decisions.

However, this tale enAs exam season rolls around, positive ripple effect. quiet our minds, regain strength, has become my greatest treasure, reconnecting with God challenging times will essential. In light ofpeople onthe beauty that surnot meant to be lived in through shine through, guiding lives are at stake, those plans can quickly unravAs your thought Each moment is courages us to pause, reflect, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, esand cultivate compassion for othallowing me to experience God’s eventually pass, allowgoing global challenges rounds you.

May each prayer, stillness, silence and solimisery.and Weevery are here to most vulnerable, and tough times.

As ex- In el,us and is not for the week, take them a lovethrough unique, indiensure weletting grasp the biggerrise picture pecially iffind you have a child or ing to life adapt andalways like wars, conflicts, and ers.

By embracing stillness, silence and share itmust with others. of you who read this tude and our souls up in embrace and cherish those who choose fair.

These realities moment to reflect on the ams draw near, let’s pray for our vidual isproceeding. distinct, making pathways forward. climate change, let’s the face be andit cherish before in loved one like we I have facing these and open ourselves to of blessed challenges, is this coneach face It’s chalreverent prayer. inWhether thesenew sacred between health and remind us thatsolitude, we are simplicity of your youngstudents.

May they find strength, our life day, experiences your life and the lives focus on making the academics, work, or life, taking a challenges.

The pressure can be transformation and a deeper comnection that sustains me, lenges, and grow from EMBRACING LIFE spaces thatWe we must confront ournot fears financial stability.

Letremindus always in control of most er years, a time before invaluable. peace, and clarity in their studofthat others with gratitude, of our current moour experiences.

Sharmoment to read the fine print can intense, with teachers reminding Embracing the munion with God. ing me I cannot save myself not forget those without our destinies.

Despite adult worries took hold. and insecurities, transforming cherish this beautiful ies.

A heartfelt prayer can be aAs especially during these ments.

Appreciate what ingas joy can uplift those certainties of lifewe can lead to unexpected students that these are the most without God’s grace. homes or those working the difficulties face, Life moves quickly,or others them into heartfelt prayers.

Stillgift, no amount ofrewards. worrying times.

Let us you have, celebrate source of encouragement.

It asks around us, creating a lead to deeper underThought for the week tirelessly on the front there is hope that these and being present is So, the next time you face a crucial exams of their lives.

But Motherremember Teresa used to whose always say ness, silence andanother solitude may seem money can buy those your uniqueIngifts, focus, and thetheir ability positive ripple effect. the standing and fulfillment, highlighting challenging will essential. light offor onAstimes your thought for the week, al-and challenge, remember lesson amidst the stress engage and tension, it’sof towisdom, me, lines, “Be only all for Jesus on your chance atmoment life. daunting, but itUnderis essential for spirlives are at stake, those in acts kindEach is to manage stress, reminding stuas suggested by the dedication and sacrifice. eventually pass, allowgoing global challenges ways remember that in every mofrom the story: sometimes, the important to remember that exstanding that our time is journey of life. ” Amen. most vulnerable, and itual growth.

It allows us to listen to ness.

Express gratitude, unique, and every indi- Lord Jesus Christ’s call dents that their efforts will bear Amen. ing us to adapt and find like wars, conflicts, and mentwhile of our lives, Godare is ajust constant simplest answer is making the one that re- ams, significant, one who must choose God, to is ourselves, and to the world vidual distinct, new pathways climate change, fruit. arethose designed to test source carelarger and provision.

Hislet’s between health and their quires the most thought. offorward. aof much journey. around us.

Whether it’s in nature part our life experiences focus on making the knowl EMBRACING LIFE financial stability. Let us essential; without it, First andisforemost, a moinvaluable.

We must or a quiet corner of our homeEmbracing or presence mosttake of our current moPray forthis Knowledge theto the not forget those without neither worldments. nor we would ment acknowledge the in- what cherishin beautiful praying a sacred place like I do, Appreciate certaintiesexist. of lifeThcan As June rolls in, students across homes or those working is assurance frees us from gift, as no amount of credible person you are.

You are you have, celebrate taking time to unplug and still lead to deeper undertirelessly on the front Ireland find themselves at a be pivotmoney can buy another anxiety and the relentless grind unique, loved, and cherished by can lead at to life. profound insights and and fulfillment, your unique gifts, and standing lines, highlighting their alchance moment: exam season.

The JuUnderof overwork, allowing usregardcherengage intoacts of kindyour family friends, asEven suggested by the and anior renewed sense purpose. dedication and sacrifice.

Cert and Leaving Cert standing that ouroftime is exams ness.

Express gratitude, ish quiet moments with Him, less of the grades you achieve.

Lord Jesus Christ’s call aft er leaving environAmen. loom large, athe ritetranquil of passage that

C “A C

Spreading the word of positivity Give The Exams Your Best!!

Spreading the word of positivity

Spreading the word of positivity

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LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

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Buailigí isteach ag Tigh Tom Steele in Inis san oíche Déanaigí teagm(Déar hAoine 30úsá.lá de Mheitheamh) ó 9.30pm ÍGÍ amárach ag breathnú TG4 andhá háil le Gaeilge sanlear oíche Dé Máirt, an ár AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE aghaidh, áit a bheas gcairde An Clár as Gaeilge ag Chéile na Sionna 13úseoladh lá de Bhealtaine ag ROINNT AGAIBHnua ?! a suíomh idirlíne WWW. le tuilleadh eolais 7.30pm, nuair a bheas Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanmaidin Dé agus Sathairn, (anmuid 31ú aANCLARASGAEILGE.NET. fháil faoi na an clár ‘’Bliain inAgus Inis ansin aigí ar Facebook Twitter lá de Mheitheamh) beidh Preab nó Pop-up Gaeltacht ar siúl i mBaile Uí himeachtaí ar fad a Oírr’’ le feiceáil. Is í an Earrach a ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: bheas siúl acub Bheoláin agchaibidil Anita’s ónagus 11amnagofataí 1pm. Bainigí sás astub sin! bheasarfaoi macallaanchlair@gmail.com. an samhradh seo.

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22

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Green Clare

Public realm work praised as Ennis claims second spot in litter survey

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS is the second cleanest of forty towns and cities across Ireland.

‘Cleaner than European Norms’ status has been regained by Ennis in the latest survey from business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL). The county town has jumped from thirteenth to second in the ranking of forty towns and cities in Ireland.

Of the ten locations surveyed in Ennis, nine were marked ‘Grade A’ status with one ‘Grade B’ marking as the town narrowly missed out on top spot in the IBAL rankings to Naas.

Overall, two-thirds of towns were clean, which was up on 2024. Naas was once again top of the ranking of 40 towns and cities, ahead of Ennis and Killarney. Only four areas were branded littered or seriously littered, the lowest number in five years. Both Dublin and Cork city centres have improved in advance of the peak season for visitors.

Public realm works in Ennis were praised

by An Taisce for creating “lovely streetscapes” at O’Connell Street and High Street.

The N85 approach from the M18 to Clareabbey Roundabout was the first area surveyed in Ennis. An Taisce reported it as “an exceptionally freshly presented route” absent of litter. It was pristine, creating a very positive first impression of Ennis, this high standard was sustained for the almost all of the remaining sites surveyed”.

Paving, planted areas and wooden seating were labelled as “lovely features” on O’Connell St which was reported as “looking exceptionally fresh”. The report noted, “While it

was typically a high ranking site in previous surveys, this time around the overall presentation of same is at another level”.

Similarly An Taisce have said works on High Street have “resulted in a lovely pedestrian shopping environment. There was no litter directly associated with closed down or vacant outlets. The relatively recent issue of ‘vape stickers’ on litter bins have made their way to the street bins”.

Signage at Friar’s Walk car park was “in very good order and the overall impression was of a well-attended environment”. Dunnes Stores car park had been heavily littered in previous surveys but a visible improvement was noted as it received the top litter grade.

Aldi’s deposit return scheme on the Kilrush Rd was “an immaculate site, a temple for Grade A” with the area surrounding it “spotless”. College View and the Kilrush Rd was “very freshly presented and maintained” with freshly cut grassland, clean pavements, parking spaces and road surfaces. “Lovely tree planting” resulted in high praise for Abbey Court.

Abbey Court: Grade A. There was lovely tree planting throughout this residential area.

All was in very good condition, with no visible litter issues.

Place de Paul De Fenouillet by the Clare Museum and Friary car park showcased “an attractively presented town centre environment with good visitor information noticeboard, sculpture, tree planting, seating, ‘olde’ style street lamps etc, all of which were in very good order”.

Wood Quay to the Riverwalk was the only

area of the ten surveyed not to receive a Grade A marking. “Overall impression created along this riverside environment was a positive one with paving, seating, and litter bins in very good order. Site was let down by the very deliberate ‘stuffing’ of cardboard boxes behind the black street bin,” the report stated.

One year on from the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme, plastic bottle and can litter is down 50% on previous levels but was still found in 20% of the 500-plus sites surveyed across the country. “We hope that the scheme will see the disappearance of this litter, but statistics so far do not bear this out.

Cans and plastic bottles are far from a rare

sight on our streets and in our hedgerows,” Conor Horgan of IBAL stated.

While the prevalence of coffee cups on our streets remains stubbornly high, there was a fall-off in disposable vape litter. The UK and Northern Ireland outlawed disposable vapes earlier this month and a ban here is likely in the coming months. The survey found the main streets of towns to be generally clean, as were heritage and amenity sites. Residential areas, bus and train stations and recycle facilities were most likely to be littered.

Mattress Amnesty Day 2025 Clare County Council is hosting a Mattress Amnesty Day for householders from across County Clare

at the carpark beside Peach House, Shannon Town Centre on Saturday, 21st June 2025 at 8:30am to 1:00pm  HOUSEHOLDS ONLY - NO COMMERCIAL CUSTOMERS  CLEAN DRY MATTRESSES ONLY WILL BE ACCEPTED

FREE OF CHARGE

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Funding for this initiative was awarded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications through the 2025 Anti-Dumping Initiative.

For further details please contact:

email: enviroff@clarecoco.ie | telephone: (065) 6846331 | www.clarecoco.ie @GreenerClare

LOVELY STREETSCAPES: O’Connell street Ennis

23

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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Green Clare

Ennis National School achieves Bronze Badger Nature Hero Award ENNIS National School has achieved a Bronze Badger Nature Hero Award for their great work in biodiversity and environmental education.

The Nature Hero Awards, coordinated by Biodiversity in Schools and sponsored by Glenveagh, received registrations from 316 schools around Ireland representing over 93,000 students. The awards help schools to positively steward their local land, improving biodiversity and educating young nature heroes throughout Ireland. Ennis National School has received a certificate to mark their great effort over the year and their commitment to biodiversity and environmental education.

Speaking about the partnership, Annette McGarry, Head of Community Engagement at Glenveagh commented, “We’re proud to

collaborate with Biodiversity in Schools on this excellent educational initiative, and delighted to see so many schools and children participate this year. We congratulate all the schools on their fantastic achievements. Biodiversity plays such an important role in every community and we’re incredibly proud to support this brilliant initiative over the last four years”.

Speaking about the 2025 competition, Mark Nolan, Director of Biodiversity in Schools commented: “We’ve been amazed by the incredible work undertaken by schools across the country to help their local biodiversity. A massive well done to all the schools who achieved ‘Nature Hero’ status this year. A special thank you to Glenveagh Homes for their continued support of this great initiative.”

The Nature Hero Awards™ is Ireland’s largest outdoor learning award across the education sector. It is a mark of excellence for a school recognising exceptional work by young people and teachers to help nature.

The aim of the programme is to create an educational space that nurtures a love of nature, develops a knowledge of our biodiversity and encourages action to help it locally. It covers many topics from nature conservation to school gardening, ecoliteracy to wellbeing.

There is a competitive element with bronze, silver and gold categories to aim for as well as an overall national winner. It is open to pre, primary & secondary schools within the Republic of Ireland. lNATURE HERO: Ennis National School receive Bronxe Badger award

24

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Arts & Culture

A new play exploring the impact of ‘Foreign Land’ protest, migration, and community photography exhibition response to be staged in glór opens in East Clare for Refugee Week

by LISA MULLALY

A NEW production examining community, conflict, and compassion arrives at glór, Ennis on Thursday June 26.

Inspired by real events surrounding the arrival of 100 international protection applicants in Newbridge, Co. Kildare in 2023, ‘Is Mise Éire Eile’, presented by Crooked House Theatre Company, tells the true story of a town coming to terms with the arrival of international protection applicants.

On a rainy autumn evening in 2023, The Gables, a small guesthouse in Newbridge, Co. Kildare, prepared to receive 100 men seeking asylum. As the buses pulled in, they were met not by a warm welcome, but by hundreds of protestors.

The demonstration, which lasted weeks, stunned many in the town and raised difficult questions about fear, belonging, and identity in contemporary Ireland.

Directed by Emily B Ditkovski and developed with a team of writers from Crooked House, including Yassine Barkaoui and Serena Giordanengo, ‘Is Mise Éire Eile’ is built from interviews with asylum seekers, local residents, community organisers, and elected officials. Using a style of verbatim theatre, the performance shares these voices directly, offering an authentic and nuanced portrait of a community’s divided reaction to asylum seekers.

“It’s many things,” said Ditkovski, who moved from the U.S. to Ireland in 2023. “Politics is complicated. Life’s complicated. But what we learned was that people do care, and even small acts of kindness can make a real difference.”

The play explores both sides of the protest’s aftermath, illuminating the lived expe-

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

NEW PRODUCTION: cast of ‘Is Mise Eire Eile’

riences of international protection applicants and the fears of some local residents.

By including all perspectives, the piece aims to avoid easy conclusions and instead foster conversation.

“We wanted to open up space for honest conversation,” says director Emily B Ditkovski. “This isn’t a story about villains and heroes. It’s about people. And it’s complicated.”

“There’s really a difficulty in disagreements in Ireland based on the history,” Ditkovski noted. “And so people who may feel supportive of international protection applicants or sympathetic towards them maybe are not going to voice that opinion because they may be uncomfortable with the disagreements they

might cause.”

The production is performed by a diverse cast, many of whom are international protection applicants themselves or come from migrant backgrounds. They worked collaboratively to shape the piece, sharing their stories providing first-hand accounts of their lived experiences.

“It was important to us that we didn’t just tell stories about people,” says Ditkovski. “We worked with people we already had relationships with, people who wanted their stories told. There’s a deep sense of care and responsibility at the heart of this project.”

Ditkovski explained that the structure of the show is intentionally fragmented and episodic, reflecting the complexity of the subject matter.

The show also includes abstract sequences that reflect the emotional landscape of migration such as; what it feels like to enter the asylum system, face legal hurdles, and live in limbo.

‘Is Mise Eire Eile’ strives to be more than a piece of theatre but to be a tool for education and community development. Beyond its 80-minute performance, each event includes a post-show panel discussion featuring company members, local organisers, and elected officials. The aim,

according to Ditkovski, is not only to reflect on the story but to identify practical actions for building more connected, harmonious communities.

The team behind the production has also spent several months traveling to schools across the country to perform a shortened version of the play and facilitate workshops.

In schools, students reported a profound shift in perspective after watching the piece. “One student said, ‘I’m Ukrainian and I felt myself seen on the stage for the first time,’” said Ditkovski. “That meant the world.”

Crooked House Theatre Company, based in Kildare, was founded in 1993 and is known for its work with young people and marginalised communities. The company offers free drama training, workshops, and community-based productions, with a strong emphasis on tolerance, equality, and social justice. Is Mise Éire Eile is a continuation of that mission, created in collaboration with international protection applicants and performed by an international cast.

Is Mise Éire Eile runs at glór, Ennis Thursday June 26 8pm, followed by a panel discussion. Suitable for audiences aged 16+.

TO MARK Refugee Week 2025, a new photography exhibition titled ‘Foreign Land’ opened on Tuesday, June 17 at Scariff Library and continues with a celebratory evening launch on Friday, June 20 in the Ralahine Room of the East Clare Community Co-op.

Curated by Avia Gurman Murphy, artist and Coordinator of Development and Training at the Co-op, the exhibition features the work of nine photographers from diverse cultural backgrounds, reflecting on what it means to find oneself in a “Foreign Land”.

The project is a result of a collaboration of ideas from both Avia and Fiona Cahill an Integration Support Worker Clare County Council.

“This project happened because I’m a photographer and I wanted to start the East Clare Camera Club,” Avia told the Clare Echo. “We got some funding from Clare County Council’s Arts Office to help make it happen, and I had the idea to do an exhibition at the end that would be about belonging. Then Fiona came and said, ‘There’s a Refugee Week, let’s do something for that.’ So the idea evolved, and that’s how ‘Foreign Land’ began.”

The result is a community-powered exhibition where personal stories and images intersect. “We have an Irish photographer, an American, a Polish artist, myself Israeli, someone from England and also people from Ukraine, Nigeria, and China,” said Avia. “The fact that it’s not only professional artists makes it very special.”

Fiona Cahill , who co-organised the project, sees the exhibition as part of a wider integration effort. “This is not our first collaboration with the East Clare Community Co-op. We’re always in this conversation, trying to find new ways to promote inclusion through creativity and community,” she said. “The theme for Refugee Week this year is ‘Community as a Superpower’, and I think this community in East Clare is a melting pot of many cultures. People live here in harmony, and have always experienced a strong welcome.”

The East Clare Community Co-op, based in Scariff, has played a central role in making this project a reality.

Founded over 37 years ago, the Co-op has long been a hub for grassroots community development, education, social inclusion, and the arts. It works to support individuals and families through a variety of programmes that foster creativity, resilience, and collaboration. “The Co-op has survived 38 years against all odds,” said Gurman Murphy. “It has brought many, many cultures together to live in peace. In a world that feels chaotic, this exhibition celebrates what we’ve built here” The exhibition opened at Scariff Library on Tuesday June 17 with a special performance by the East Clare Choir, singing “Walk With Me,” a piece composed by local musician Cliona Donlan. The photographers involved in the exhibition are; Céline Mermier, Greg Dinner, Michelle Moloney, Soo Ling Koh, Toma Stena, Przemyslaw Andrew Stawarz, Silwelubuhle Beauty Ncube, Alexandra Thompson, and Avia Gurman Murphy. Avia, the curator of the event is also showing a piece of video art called: ‘Tahara - Ritual for the Dead’.

On Friday, June 20, the exhibition moves to the Ralahine Room in the East Clare Community Co-op, where it will open from 7pm to 9pm with live jazz from The Chalumeau Quartet and complimentary woodfired pizza.

‘Foreign Land’ is supported by Clare County Council’s Integration Team and Clare Local Development Company through the SICAP initiative. Admission to both events is free, and all are welcome.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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Mocktail Bar with Killarney Crystal Level 2

The Padraic Flaherty Show with Clare FM Live Friday 12-3pm

LIVE Fashion Show Friday 12.30 & 2.30pm

CARRAIG Donn’s Ennis store is celebrating 35 incredible years in business with an unmissable two-day birthday event, taking place on Friday, June 20 and Saturday, June 21.

The milestone celebration promises exclusive offers, live fashion shows, special guests, and plenty of in-store excitement.

As one of Ireland’s leading lifestyle retailers, Carraig Donn has become a household name with 43 stores nationwide and a thriving online platform. Renowned for its wide-ranging collections in ladies’ fashion, jewellery, accessories, gifting, and homeware, Carraig Donn is a go-to destination for stylish, quality-conscious shoppers.

Situated in the heart of Ennis – recognised as Ireland’s Boutique Capital – Carraig Donn has long been a fashion hub, known for its exclusive labels, trend-driven styles, competitive prices, and constant flow of new arrivals.

To celebrate this major milestone, Carraig Donn are hosting a vibrant weekend of fashion, fun, and community spirit, featuring: • LIVE Clare FM Broadcast from the store on Friday, June 20 (12pm – 3pm) Tune in for interviews, giveaways, and plenty of birthday buzz!

• Meet & Greet with Sarah Butler, one of Ireland’s favourite foodies and bestselling cookbook author. Join us for a book signing and a chat with Sarah in-store from 12-2pm • Mocktail Bar on Level 2 hosted by Killar-

Volunteer Models from Slainte an Chlair

Fundraising Draw in aid of Slainte an Chlair.

LOADS OF PRIZES to be won on the day

CA R R A I G D O N N , B A N K P L A C E , O ’ C O N N E L L S T R E E T, E N N I S

w w w. c a r r a i g d o n n . c o m

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Ennis store celebrates 35 years at the heart of Ireland’s ‘boutique capital’

ON FRIDAY 20 TH JUNE

VIP Sarah Butler Meet & Greet Friday 12-2pm

Business

35 YEARS: Carraig Donn, Ennis Store

ney Crystal – enjoy a refreshing sip while you shop.

• LIVE In-Store Fashion Shows on Friday, June 20 (12.30pm and 2.30pm) featuring real models from Shlainte and Chlar – showcasing the best of this season’s style.

• Fundraising Draw in aid of Shlainte and Chlar, with fabulous prizes to be won and all proceeds supporting a great local cause.

• 20% OFF Full-Price Stock all day Friday and Saturday. Your chance to grab that must-have piece at a birthday-exclusive price!

Carraig Donn 60 Years of Irish Retail

Carraig Donn, Ireland’s premier lifestyle retailer of Ladies Fashion, Jewellery and Gifts, which was established in 1965 is celebrating its 60th year of Irish Retail throughout 2025.

A series of celebratory events are planning throughout the year.

Carraig Donn’s uniquely Irish signature plays homage to their heritage roots which has evolved into a modern and contemporary lifestyle retailer competing with top European brands in shopping centres and high streets across the country.

More information on the birthday celebrations can be read at: https://www.carraigdonn.com/blogs/news/ carraig-donn-60th-anniversary

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Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Cafés in County Clare Eva’s: a cosy spot for real

W

hether it’s your essential morning pick-me-up, a mid-afternoon flat white, or a weekend latte with friends, most people enjoy a good cup of coffee.

Across County Clare, cafés are serving up more than caffeine.

They’re the places we go to catch up, chill out, or just take a quick breather from a busy day.

This week, we’re shining a light on some of the hardworking people behind the coffee machines,

the homemade cakes, and the welcoming spaces we all love.

As the coffee scene in Clare continues to evolve, these cafés remain rooted in what matters most: local ingredients, friendly faces, and a passion for quality.

Join us in celebrating the people and stories behind the counters, and discover the diverse offerings waiting to be enjoyed in every corner of the county.

Le Chéile Café: Barefield’s spot for food, coffee & music

LOCATED just outside Ennis, in the beautiful village of Barefield, Le Chéile at Hassett’s Bar is your one-stop shop for artisan coffee, healthy bites and delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner options.

Join us later in the evening for a top-notch bar food menu and regular live music in our beloved landmark pub venue. With plush and comfortable interiors, friendly service, and an excellent 4.5-star rating from over 200 reviews, Le Chéile is more than just a café – it’s your new favourite neighbourhood spot for everything from a quick coffee to a cosy evening dining in style.

Visit this summer to experience it for yourself!

food and good company

STEP into Eva’s, a cozy haven for coffee lovers and food enthusiasts alike.

Situated in the heart of Ennis, our cafe offers a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends.

Proudly serving the people of Ennis for over 15 years, our business has become a beloved spot for simple food done right, while catering to various tastes and dietary preferences.

Start your day with our flavourful breakfast selections, including gluten-free pancakes, homemade granola and savoury scrambles.

For lunch, enjoy a rotating selection of homemade soups and hearty sandwiches, or a freshly made salads, while sipping on a delicious Lavazza Italian coffee!

At Eva’s, we proudly serve dishes made

from locally sourced ingredients, with many options being organic. What matters most to us is creating a place where people feel welcome, whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or sitting back in our outdoor seating to relax for a while. We’re proud to be part of this community and truly grateful for your support over the years.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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7 surprising health benefits of your daily coffee WE all know coffee helps wake us up, but it turns out your daily cup might be doing a lot more than that.

From boosting brain power and lifting your mood to protecting your heart, liver and even helping you live longer, coffee has some impressive health perks worth celebrating.

Here are seven reasons to feel even better about your coffee habit: 1. It’s packed with antioxidants Coffee is one of the biggest sources of antioxidants in the average diet, even more than fruits and vegetables for many people. These antioxidants help fight inflammation and protect your cells.

2. It can boost brain power Caffeine helps improve focus, alertness and mood by blocking a chemical in your brain that makes you feel tired. Regular coffee drinkers may also have a lower risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

3. It supports heart health Moderate coffee drinkers (1–3 cups a day) may have a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. It can also help improve blood vessel function.

4. It may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes Studies have shown that people who drink coffee regularly, even decaf, have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes over time.

5. It protects your liver Coffee has been linked to a lower risk of liver conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer. It can also help keep liver enzyme levels healthy.

6. It’s good for your mood Coffee has been associated with a lower risk of depression and can e v e n h e l p r e duce t h e risk o f suicide.

That warm cup of comfort may be lifting your spirits in more ways than one.

7. It could help you live longer Research has found that regular coffee drinkers tend to live longer than those who don’t drink it at all.

There’s lots of research out there to show that moderate coffee intake is linked with all sorts of health benefits however too much coffee can be linked with side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, and digestive issues.

Like anything in our diet, moderation matters. Knowing both the perks and the limits of coffee helps us enjoy it as part of a balanced lifestyle.

Whether it’s a flat white, a filter brew or a quick espress o, your coffee isn’t just a daily treat, it’s full of benefits. So go ahead and enjoy that cuppa, guilt-free.

Ennis Food Emporium: fresh flavours every day

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

LOCATED at the Abbeyfield Centre, Francis Street, Ennis, the Ennis Food Emporium is a well-established restaurant, deli, and in-store bakery offering freshly prepared dishes each day. As a small, family-run business, the Emporium has been serving the Clare community since 1984 with breakfast, lunch, and dinner options including vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals, take-away dinners, catering, and excellent coffee.

“We do a food catering café doing lunches and doing takeaway dinners for people,” says Fionn McGuinness, who runs the business alongside his brother. The pair have been involved for the past six years, continuing a tradition started by their parents, TJ and Brenda, who originally opened the business in 1984.

When taking over the business six years ago, Fionn and his brother established a limited company making it ‘The Ennis Food Emporium Ltd.’ With over 40 years of service behind them, the business continues to evolve. “It’s just kind of rolled with the times and keeping up with what’s popular and what’s trending and that’s why it’s always evolving,” Fionn explains.

In addition to daily food service, The Ennis Food

Emporium also offers outdoor and indoor catering for all family occasions, corporate lunches, marquee events, weddings (including pre-wedding breakfasts and after parties), christenings, birthdays, anniversaries, banquets, and funerals. Cocktail parties, intimate dinners, family dinners, and BBQs are also catered for. Communion and Confirmation parties are a speciality. Cakes for all occasions are also available, with gluten-free, coeliac, vegetarian, and vegan options. Delivery or collection is available.

Fionn’s love for food and hospitality runs deep. “We were always at it, we were always kind of doing it. I have always been a big lover of food and I suppose hospitality really, it’s always surrounding us.”

Customer experience is a central focus to the business.

Fionn explained to The Clare Echo that ensuring a good customer experience is the most important part to him.

“It’s nice to send someone off and them having a positive experience and then hopefully they will have a positive spin off into their life,” he says.

This emphasis on maintaining a positive customer experience along with their ability to adapt is what Fionn believes makes the Food Emporium unique. “It’s our years of experience and expertise

in customer experience, and looking at things from a consumers’ perspective is really important. Being aware that you need to be constantly improving and changing things to stick with it while also not changing the fundamental things that people are coming to you every day for.”

The McGuinness brothers strive to provide high-quality and fresh food to their customers. “When it comes to our food, everything is prepared on site, nothing is prepped, nothing is frozen, it’s real food and as I always tell people, ‘The only thing better than home-cooked food is not having to cook it yourself.’”

“Everything is made from scratch,” he adds. “With our catering as well, people would notice the difference between the sauces being bought in or made from scratch. And all of our meats are sourced as locally as possible as well.”

Fionn is thankful to all of the local suppliers who help to ensure The Ennis Food Emporium can continue to supply customers with the best quality food daily.

The team behind the counter also plays a key role. “We have a great team. And they all add to the customer experience.” The team is made up of a mixture of full-time and part-time staff including both college and secondary school students.

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Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

From freshly baked scones to bespoke cakes The Rós Café always delivers NESTLED in the heart of Newmarket on Fergus, The Rós Café has quickly become a part of the local and wider spread community.

It has become a gathering spot for people looking for great coffee, delicious food and a warm welcoming atmosphere.

The Rós Café is known for its home baked treats – all of which are baked in house each morning by the in house baker. There is the most delicious selection of homemade scones, cinnamon rolls, almond croissants, apple tarts and much more along with their homemade brown bread which doesn’t stay in stock for long it is that popular.

To accompany the homebaked treats, The Rós Café serves a delicious coffee blend from JJ Darbovan, as well as a growing selection of speciality drinks from Homemade Lemonades to the new trend with a selection of Matcha. They also offer a Matcha of the Month which has proved very popular in getting people to try

differing flavours with the ceremonial grade matcha that they offer.

The Café also features a tasty food menu with options ranging from All Day Breakfast, Pancakes and Sandwich Selection along with a daily lunch special, homemade soup and a weekly sandwich special to accompany the already varied café menu. There is homemade sausage rolls every morning along with smoothie bowls available every day.

The café’s reputation for quality extends beyond the daily offerings and are now becoming well known for their Occasion Cakes. The Rós Café creates bespoke cakes for birthdays, weddings, communions and other special milestones.

Each cake is made to order by their incredible in house baker with any special requests from our customers taken on board with all of the occasion cakes while maintaining the signature style and flavour that The Rós Café occasion cakes are known for.

In addition to café service, The Rós Café also offers outside catering, providing delicious food for events both large and small. From business meetings to family gatherings, the team at The Rós Café prides itself on delivering a high quality catering with a personal touch.

Open Wednesday to Sunday, The Rós Café has become a part of many peoples daily routines. Whether

you are popping in for your morning coffee, meeting friends for lunch or picking up a cake for a special occasion you will always be greeted with a smile and will leave with something delicious.

So whether you are a regular customer or planning your first visit, Claire and the team from The Rós Café look forward to welcoming you.

The Rós Café Clare’s Little Pink Café What We Offer:

✨All Day Food Menu with Daily Specials ✨Homemade Bakes & Treats Daily

✨Barista Coffee, Barrys Tea & Ceremonial Grade Matcha ✨Homemade Sausage Rolls & Smoothie Bowls Speciailising in Occasion Cakes, Outside and Office Catering

��Ennis Road, Newmarket on Fergus �� Wednesday to Sunday �� Call Us: 061 700844 �� roscafe.nof@gmail.com �� Follow us on Instagram & Facebook

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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Picture Page

Ennis Chamber President’s Lunch

Cartha Donovan Senior Director Beckman Coutler Ireland Minister Peter Burke, Margaret O'Brien Ennis Chamber and Joe Cooney TD

Gordon Daly Chief Executive, Clare County Council, Diarmuid McMahon, President Ennis Chamber

Sharon Connellan (BEO Wellness), Minister Peter Burke, Aoibhin Garrihy (BEO Wellness), Joe Cooney TD, Caroline O’Dea (EY), Fiona Maloney (ESB) and Marie Darcy (Bunbury Darcy)

Ciaran Hickey Partner EY (Ireland), Minister Peter Burke, Ennis Chamber President Diarmuid McMahon, Ennis Chamber VP Siobhan Bermingham, Joe Cooney TD

 Enda O’Gorman, Shane Talty, Joe Cooney TD, Minister Peter Burke, Diarmuid McMahon (President Ennis Chamber), Cllr. Mary Howard

Minister Peter Burke, Edel Vaughan (Doolin Ferry Company), Joe Cooney TD and Mairead Collins (Doolin Ferry Company)

 Faolán Hamilton, Joe Cooney TD, Minister Peter Burke, Justin Gleeson, Emma O’Connor

30

Thursday, June 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Business

Clare based consultancy firm win National Analytics & AI Awards 2025 ON Thursday June 12 2025 at the Mansion House in Dublin, an Ennis based data analytics consultancy, People and Place Limited, won the annual Analytics Institute ‘Analytics & AI Awards 2025 – SME of the Year’ award.

The ‘SME of the Year Award’, sponsored by Bank of Ireland, recognises a SME that has demonstrated both technological innovation and business acumen to succeed in a competitive marketplace.

With over 150 corporate members, the Analytics Institute is a professional membership organisation dedicated to promoting and advancing the field of analytics and data science in Ireland.

People and Place Limited is a spin-out company from Maynooth University and was founded by Ennis native Justin Gleeson. With headquarters at the Ennis Chamber i-Hub and remote work locations in both Maynooth Works and the Portershed

lSME OF THE YEAR: People and Place team at the awards ceremony in Dublin

in Galway City, People and Place help organisations and communities find meaning and direction by turning

complex data into powerful visual stories. Key to winning the Analytics Institute award has been recent con-

sultancy projects delivered by the team on developing data insight platforms for key national organisations

such as the GAA, Údarás na Gaeltachta, the Arts Council and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre at the HSE. “We tell stories with data.

We translate complex data into clear, powerful stories using maps, graphics, and toolkits. With a team of planners, geographers, sociologists and designers our work is incredibly interesting, and we have been lucky enough to deliver a range of culturally significant projects with clients such as the GAA on mapping and visualising clubs across the island, analysing past, present and future demographic club catchments, and understanding local level participation rates. With Údarás na Gaeltachta, we are developing a data analytics platform that will assist them with planning and development of strategy for the future economic, social and cultural development of the Gaeltacht areas. We are also working with local authorities right across the country

on analytics projects to support planning, housing and community initiatives which brings our work into direct contact with the latest policy development from central government and the EU. One of the new areas we are concentrating on over the coming eighteen months is to expand our underlying data repository to bring in earth observation data through a new European Space Agency (ESA) initiative – this will enable our team to develop an annual monitoring of land use change which will be of real importance as we progress through the major development phase that is coming and as signalled through the National Planning Framework.”

People and Place have also worked on a number of projects in Clare and recently produced a socio-economic profile of Ennis on behalf of the Ennis Chamber of Commerce and a socio-economic profile for the Killaloe Municipal District.

MHP Sellors named Irish Mick Guinee’s contribution to economic development of Clare lauded law firm of the year

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS based MHP Sellors Solicitors has scooped a major win after they were named Irish Law Firm of the Year at the LEAP Irish Law Awards 2025.

In what is significant recognition for the firm and legal practice in the Mid-West, the national award was one of three secured by MHP Sellors at the Irish Law Awards.

Typically awarded to larger firms, the national Law Firm of the Year title acknowledged a number of strengths at MHP Sellors, including its expansion across Limerick and Clare, its investment in technology and systems, regulatory and compli-

ance track record, and support for the not-for-profit and charity sectors.

“We are delighted to see our team’s efforts acknowledged at a national level with this top prize,” said Stephen Keogh, Managing Partner. “This award demonstrates that the merger of Michael Houlihan & Partners and Sellors has delivered a reenergised and progressive firm, and we are grateful to our clients and colleagues past and present for their trust and dedication throughout that journey.

I’d like to especially acknowledge our partners Ian Sheehy, Marina Keane, Caroline Meaney, Ronan Hynes, and Derek Walsh, and all of our staff who have contributed to the development of the firm”.

lMHP SELLORS: Derek Walsh (Partner), Stephen Keogh (Managing Partner), Dervla Beirne (Solicitor) and Ronan Hynes (Partner).

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

IT WAS a week that begin with receiving an honorary doctorate from the University of Limerick and one which ended with a civic reception from Clare County Council for founder and former CEO of Ei Electronics, Dr Mick Guinee.

Innovators and entrepreneurs central to creating a legacy in Shannon were remembered in Áras Contae an Chláir on Friday evening with the civic reception for Mick held following the unveiling of a bust in memory of the late Brendan O’Regan.

Mick’s contribution to the economic and social developmemt of the county was lauded at the civic reception which was attended by elected members, senior council officials, family, friends, and business leaders.

In 1988, Cork native Mick founded Ei Electronics following a management buyout of the EI Company in Shannon. Under his leadership, Ei Electronics has grown into a world-class Irish-owned multinational, specialising in fire and home safety technology. The company now boasts global sales of over €420 million, employing 1,250 people worldwide, including 1,000 in Ireland, with subsidiaries in the UK, Germany, France, the USA and Australia.

He stepped down as Ei Chief Executive Officer earlier this year but continues to play a central role as Chairman of the Board.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) paid tribute to Dr. Guinee’s legacy, “Mick’s contribution to Clare’s, and indeed Ireland’s, industrial landscape is nothing short of extraordinary. He nurtured a homegrown company into a global leader, creating sustainable employment and opportunities in Shannon. But beyond the balance sheets, Mick has shown what true leadership looks

like, investing in people, supporting local communities, and strengthening the very fabric of our society”.

He was previously honoured by Clare County Council with a Mayoral Award in 2023 “for his support of community organisations in the Shannon Municipal District (MD) and beyond, while also providing employment in the Shannon Industrial Estate”.

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

• Traffic / Litter Warden Closing date: 12 Noon Wednesday 30th July 2025 Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section.

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

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

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 19, 2025

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Picture Page

31

Cumann na mBunscol an Chláir finals 2025

Cusack Park opened its gates on June 11 and 12 to welcome what has become the most eagerly anticipated event in the primary schools’ sporting calendar; the Cumann na mBunscol Hurling and Camogie County Finals.

This year’s finals saw a total of 14 games played across Divisions 1–6 in both hurling and camogie, with the exciting addition of two new academy games.

In total, 678 children from 25 schools took to Cusack Park, delivering over 470 minutes of highquality play, determination, and sportsmanship.

With the energy and excitment around the June finals, it’s clear that Cumann na mBunscol an Chláír continues to go from strength to strength. The commitment of teachers, coaches, par-

ents, and club members ensures that our young GAA athletes are not only developing as players, but also as teammates, leaders, and proud ambassadors for their schools.

There were plenty of memorable moments and historic firsts.

One of the standout clashes came in the Division 1 hurling final, where Ballyea NS and Barefield NS faced off in a fiercely competitive battle for the Culloo/Vaughan Trophy.

Clonmoney NS achieved a remarkable double, with both their boys’ and girls’ bringing back silverware.

Broadford NS made headlines in camogie, competing in Division 3 and also in the inaugural Camogie Academy game. Their persistence paid off as they proudly

brought home the very first Academy Trophy, a special achievement that marks a new chapter for developing players in the county.

The Shannon schools of St Senan’s and St Conaires were out in force, with schoolmates and clubmates lining out on opposite sides.

Amalgamated teams from Bodyke/ Tuamgraney, Inagh/ Cloonanaha and Lakyle/Iniscealtra ensured their parishes would be proud, taking home both cups and shields in impressive fashion.

Clarecastle NS brought home the trophy for div 1 camogie for the second year in a row, cementing their position as a dominant force in school camogie. lPhotos by: Tom Micks

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Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

'Little mistakes came at big price' - Keane

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

LITTLE mistakes came at a big price for Clare’s senior footballers in their three point loss to Louth, manager Peter Keane said.

Louth ran out 2-17 2-14 winners over Clare in O’Moore Park on Sunday, the Leinster champions led by eight at halftime and entering the final ten minutes before Clare made them sweat for victory.

The defeat, Clare’s fourth in a row ends their campaign for 2025.

On the field, mistakes once again proved costly got for Clare in allowing Louth to take control of Sunday’s game.

“There is plenty of talent there, it’s just that little mistakes cost us in games and these are things that need to be cut out and eradicated. If that can be done there is a bright future,” Keane said.

Manus Doherty’s black card sixteen minutes into the game was a major talking point in Sunday’s game.

Speaking to The Clare Echo about the decision, the Clare

manager stated, “When you are on pitch level, it’s hard to know whether or not it was a black card. It did seem to me it was but I am not going to shoot the referee on it, when you are a distance away from it. It did feel harsh and we suffered as a result, they got something like 2-4 from it in that widow. Look at the margins, we lost be one score and that was a very difficult window for us. That said we hurt ourselves around that period too, little sloppy passes, they hurt us”.

Louth’s experience was a decisive factor, he felt. “They are a team on the go for three, four or five years now. They came out of Division 4 into 3 and held their place and got into 2 and held their place,.

They are Leinster champions and deservedly so, they put up a great performance and they are no bad team. I have to say I am totally proud of the lads and the way they went at it, yes we were in a bad place at half time, eight down but only a kick of the all in it at the end and if we had a little more time

DOORA/BAREFIELD BEAT BRICKS TO TEE UP DERBY CUSACK CUP DECIDER CUSACK CUP

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

we would have got something from it”.

Praising his charges for the manner in which they played in the second half he said, “one thing I have found out about these lads all year, they have tremendous, tremendous heart, they never give up. Sometimes things don’t go their way but they don’t give up. From the very first challenge game we played this year they have showed that, they never die”.

Captain Cillian Brennan missed out on Sunday’s tie

through injury. “It does hurt when there are injuries but it’s about building a squad and getting as much depth as we can into the squad. You need everybody and everybody to be fit”.

The Clare boss went on to say, “I feel we have progressed and improved as the year has gone on and one would like to think that the players would feel the same”. Concluding the manager said “it’s for lads to continue to develop and the club championship is their next step”.

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

 ST JOSEPH’s Doora/Barefield qualified for the willwego.com Cusack cup (senior football league) final when they overcame a fancied Kilmurry Ibrickane side on Friday evening on a score of 0-10 0-5. Pictured above is James Curran winning the ball in the Photo by Gerard O'Neill air from Darren Hickey.

Very unfair' to try keep Cork & BOUNCE Kerry apart in Munster - Keane BRECKANS BACK TO CUSACK CUP

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

ATTEMPTS to seed Kerry and Cork on opposite sides of the Munster senior football championship has been criticised as “very unfair” by Clare manager Peter Keane.

Keane’s first season in charge of Clare ended on Sunday with Louth eliminating the Banner County from the All-Ireland by a margin of three points in what was

Clare’s fourth loss of the championship.

For the third year in a row, Clare reached the Munster final but efforts are underway at a provincial level to restructure the championship so that Cork and Kerry are kept on opposite sides of the draw and not the finalists.

On the potential of such a restructuring, Keane stated, “I think it’s very unfair, there is no other province trying to do that. You want fairness and balance and why should there be two teams seeded like that ev-

ery year when you are trying to promote the game. There is no seeding going on in hurling and they are promoting it and developing it. There was something like 300,000 people watched the hurling this year. If you want to bring people to games you can’t be offering them the same fare each year. Maybe it might be better to invest more money into the counties to improve their football and their standards”.

CUSACK CUP

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

ALL-IRELAND SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP CLARE 2-14 LOUTH 2-17 Venue: Laois Hire O’Moore Park, Portlaoise Compiled by Páraic McMahon and Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME LOUTH Frees For: 15 (9/6) Wides: 5 (3/2) Scores from play: 2-13 Spread of scorers: 7 Top scorer: Sam Mulroy (1-6 2TP 1TPf 4f) Own kickouts won: 10 out of 21 (48%) Bookings: Emmett Carolan (29), Niall McDonnell (63)

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

 Dan Corcoran tries to close down Brian McNamara

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

CLARE Frees For: 14 (6/8) Wides: 5 (1/4) Scores from play: 2-10 Spread of scorers; 8 Top scorer: Mark McInerney (0-6 3f) Own kickouts won: 10 out of 24 (42%) Black Card: Manus Doherty (16)

REFEREE: Barry Tiernan (Dublin)

 ST BRECKAN’s have won promotion back to the Cusack Cup (division 1 football league) and a place in the Garry cup final thanks to a merited semi-final 0-24 2-10 win over Clondegad at Lisdoonvarna last Wednesday evening.

Photo by Burren Eye Photography Pictured is Padraig Kelly

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 19, 2025

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Sport

'It's class to be in an All-Ireland final' - O'Connell

by Enda Treacy news@clareecho.ie

CLARE’s minor hurlers showed bravery, character and class to qualify for the county’s second All-Ireland final in three years.

Manager Ger O’Connell was full of pride after watching his charges deliver a powerful display beating Cork 0-27 1-22 in Sunday’s semi-final at FBD Semple Stadium in Thurles.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, O’Connell said his side were “fully deserving winners. There's no luck about this. No, we were good. we made loads of mistakes, we did and we had to be brave, you know. We had to be willing to make mistakes to break through them”.

Lessons were learned from their seven point defeat to Cork in the Munster championship, he said. “Like everybody knows about their half-backline and, you know, what happened in Tulla, it's been run around, the players would have heard about it. Their half-backline got on ball first half but we still said, right, the boys had come on a

tonne and we knew the heart is there. We just wanted to stay in there, stay in the game”.

Composure was a big factor in their victory, the Clonlara clubman believed. “I thought we were the better team and the cool thing was that the bravery we showed on the ball in the last five to ten minutes, when the chips were down and we had to win it free or we had to win a ball in the full backline and then carry it and play through the lines. Rodge and Murph didn't really get as much as ball as it was as they hoped, but that was just the way the game panned out and they got the scores and they had to. The boys were really brave and I'm so proud of them. And just the work that's been done, like, from when these guys are 14 years of age, you know, this is what it's all about to get to this level, I'm really proud of them”.

An emphasis has been placed on trying to aid the maturity and growth of the minors, he admitted. “We've driven that into them, we really encourage mistakes, you know. And when you make mistakes, you're planning to

ELECTRIC IRELAND ALL-IRELAND MINOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL:

CLARE 0-27 CORK 1-22 Venue: FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles Compiled by Enda Treacy

CLARE Frees for: 16 (6/10) Wides: 14 (8/6) Spread of scorers: 9 Scores from play: 0-16 Top scorer: Paul Rodgers 0-13 Bookings: Ben Talty (29) Own puckouts won: 22/30 (75%)

CORK Frees for: 13 (6/7) Wides: 12 (5/2) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 1-15 Top scorer: Craig O’Sullivan 0-8 Bookings: Denis Fitzgerald (15), Ryan Dineen (34), Jack Counihan (63) Own puckouts won: 26/41 (63%)

Thurles to host All-Ireland minor �inal between Clare & Waterford

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FIXTURE details have been confirmed for the Electric Ireland All-Ireland minor hurling final between Clare and Waterford.

Ger O’Connell’s Clare will face Waterford for the second time this year with FBD Semple Stadium in Thurles to host the decider on Saturday June 28th at 17:15.

Clare booked their passage to a second All-Ireland minor final in three years with a 0-27 1-22 victory over Munster champions Cork on Sunday afternoon while Waterford accounted for Lein-

ster champions Kilkenny on Saturday in Wexford Park on a score of 2-21 2-18.

Waterford GAA were first to announce the fixture details with tickets yet to go on sale for the All-Ireland final.

It will be Clare’s third outing in Thurles this season after defeating Galway and Cork in the knockout stages of the All-Ireland series with James O’Connor’s also making a third trip to the famed Tipperary venue after overcoming the Premier County in the Munster championship before losing to Cork in the provincial final.

learn from them and things aren't going to go well. We'd have a game and we'd say, pull it free against them. This is going to happen in a game.

You're not going to be happy, but we have got to respond and always you see every game we played, we responded when the team has scored.

We usually go up and get a score. We had our ups and downs, but we knew once we got going in the year that we would improve and once we got our hands on them for another few weeks, we were getting there, you could see them getting better and better and yeah, it's cool, isn't it”.

Sacrifices are to the core for anyone involved in an inter-county set-up and their families. It was no different in the O’Connell household with the birthday celebrations of Ger’s daughter slightly over-shadowed by a focus on the game. “My own daughter's birthday is today, I've met so many things, you make so many sacrifices in this game that nobody sees, you know, and like, it's actually her birthday today, like, but it falls on Daddy's Day, which means

it's me again, you know, like this means a lot to me”.

Since his minor days as Clare’s goalkeeper on the victorious 1997 All-Ireland winning side there is a jump in standard at the grade, he flagged. “The minors of 97 we still have our minor group, and we still throw messages in and out of it, but no, this conversation means a lot to me and just the standard as well is unreal. Cork are a good team, strong team, but jeez, our lads never backed down.

They just kept going and kept their heads up and we're brave and all those features”.

Waterford await in the All-Ireland decider and he said they are a side very similar to Clare. “They’re very similar to us, brilliant character. Like, they've shown it all year, they've gone down four points to us, they were six or seven down to Tipp, they were down again last night.

They are very similar to us.

“It’s just class! We’re in an All-Ireland final. I’d have bitten the hand off you if I thought this could happen. I can’t believe it. The management team I have are brilliant.

 Clare minor hurling manager, Ger O’Connell

`

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

We’ve been with the sixteens for three years and there hasn’t been one angry word.

We love each others company and you know when you put in so much time that you have to enjoy what you’re doing. I

think the boys feed off that as well. We’ve all been in setups where things aren’t good and players know,” he concluded.

Magee to succeed Ryan as CDSL Chair DONAL MAGEE is set to become the new Chairperson of the Clare District Soccer League.

Magee who since July 2022 has been a Munster FA delegate on the CDSL is to succeed Kilrush’s Jason Ryan in the hot seat as Chairperson. He has also been nominated to continue in his current role.

Former manager of Ballynanty Rovers, Newtown, Bunratty and Shannon Town, Donal led both Bunratty and Shannon Town to success in the CDSL Premier Division.

Elected Chairman in March 2021, Jason’s four year tenure will conclude at Monday’s AGM. A former registrar with the CDSL, he will remain on as an officer in the role of a committee member.

Lissycasey based Denis Collins who became secretary when Ryan was elected chair and has since served as Secretary, Fixtures Secretary and most recently PRO is stepping down from the committee.

Flan Hehir who stepped into the breach as Secretary following the sudden resignation of Richard Cahill last September is not seeking re-election. The post of grants and compliance officer

which was also occupied by former MEP candidate Cahill was not filled and remains vacant.

Former Mayor of Ennis and ex Town Councillor, Mickey Guilfoyle who returned to soccer administration three years ago is also bowing out from the committee, he had been a Munster FA delegate since July 2022.

Sporting Ennistymon’s Eddie Crowe is not seeking a return as an officer where he had been a committee member. Kenneth Moloney is also bowing out as a committee member.

Fixtures secretary Dean Russell stepped down from his role with immediate effect last month due to family reasons.

Ennis trio Ronnie Pyne (Vice Chairman), Frank Gormley (Treasurer), Nigel Bradish (Registrar) are all seeking re-election with Paul Fitzgerald, Chris Harrington and Kenneth Moloney to remain as committee members.

Shannon Olympic’s presence on the CDSL is to grow with Carolann McDonald nominated as Secretary and Jimmy Houlihan proposed to join the committee.

Monday’s AGM takes place at Treacy’s West County.

CDSL League Officers nominations 2025/26:

Honorary President: Robert Clancy, Michael McInerney, Michael Leahy Chairperson: Donal Magee Vice Chairperson: Ronnie Pyne Secretary: Carolann McDonald Treasurer: Frank Gormley Registrar: Nigel Bradish Fixtures Secretary: TBC PRO: TBC Grants & Compliance Officer: TBC Munster FA Delegate: Donal

Magee Women's Officer: TBC Youth Liaison/Child Protection: Paul Kennedy Committee member: Paul Fitzgerald Committee member: Chris Harrington Committee member: Kenneth Moloney Committee member: Jason Ryan Committee member: Jimmy Houlihan

St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games THE St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games have now completed their county-level competitions. The National Finals take place July 5 and 6 at the Watershed, Kilkenny.

3rd – Doora/Barefield 4th – Crusheen/Ballinruan/ Tubber Shannon will represent Clare in the Munster Finals on July 12 in Shannon.

The Boys Outdoor Soccer competition was held at Newmarket Celtic Soccer Club, coordinated by Michael O’Malley and his team.

Held on June 14 at Coolmeen National School and coordinated

by Mary Browne and Michelle Normoyle.

In the U13 category, Shannon was the sole entry, with a project on “Ardnacrusha Power Station”

Boys Outdoor Soccer

Results:

1st – Shannon 2nd – Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry

Projects Competition

by Aoibhinn Fitzgerald, Alexandra Lith, and Alannah Tobin.

The U11 competition had four entries:

1st – Quin Clooney: “The River Rine and All Its Wildlife” by James Shally, Barra Gallagher, Danny Browne 2nd – Cratloe: “Cratloe from The Ground Up” by Chloe McAuliffe, Emma O’Neill 3rd – Quin-Clooney: “Exploring Quin-Nature and Wildlife”

by Ellie Shally, Cora Tighe 4th – Cranny/Coolmeen:

“Nature in Cranny” by Olivia Meaney, Amy and Adam Quinn Quin Clooney now progresses to the National Finals.

U12 Skittles The final took place at Shannon AC grounds between Newmarket on Fergus and Quin Clooney. After five rounds, Newmarket emerged winners and will represent Clare at the Munster Finals on July 12 in Shannon, along with an U14 team from Shannon.

34

Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH In a story that seems too wild for even the most imaginative Hollywood script, JJ Spaun pulled off one of the most improbable victories in U.S. Open history last Sunday, capturing his first major title at a rain-soaked, punishing test of golf.

Spaun's one-under-par (-1) final score defied not only the brutal conditions of a course that had players shaking their heads, but also a personal journey full of setbacks, sacrifice, and steely resilience.

After a sleepless night tending to his daughter, who was vomiting through the early hours, Spaun arrived at the course bleary-eyed and visibly drained. His fatigue showed early — he posted

a front nine 40, a disaster by U.S. Open standards. Yet somehow, someway, Spaun clawed his way back. In fact, he made history — becoming the first U.S. Open champion ever to shoot 40 on one nine and still hoist the trophy. With an amazing flawless back nine of only 32 strokes.

That is why we watch sports. For stories like this.

As the weather gods opened the skies over the course, turning fairways into trenches and greens into glass, Spaun found something in himself. Channelling a rhythm only he could feel amidst the chaos, he hit fairway after fairway with robotic precision. His long game, the cornerstone of his week, never faltered. In a tournament where just hitting the short grass was an achievement, Spaun was a metronome — fairway, green, fairway, green. But it was on the

greens where he carved his name into history.

Over the final seven holes, Spaun holed an astonishing 136 feet of putts — a number that defies belief and gave this tournament its defining moments. The final stretch was a masterclass in nerve and feel. The drive he hit on the 17th showed nerves of steel, years of grit and determination to win his first major. It’s not just that Spaun won. It’s how he won. And how far he came to get here.

Only a few years ago, JJ Spaun wasn’t even sure he wanted to play golf anymore.

Misdiagnosed with diabetes, his health deteriorated, and his game followed suit. He lost over 40 pounds during that stretch and eventually lost his PGA Tour card. The game he loved had turned on him, and for a time, he stepped away.

But golf, like life, gives sec-

ond chances.

Spaun clawed his way back through the Korn Ferry Tour, and on his 147th career start on the PGA Tour, he finally broke through — winning the Valero Texas Open in 2022. It was a moment of redemption, but few could have imagined it would be a stepping stone to this.

Even after a dramatic playoff loss to Rory McIlroy at the Players Championship earli-

er this year, Spaun was still seen as a gritty journeyman, not a major threat. He wasn’t in many analysts’ picks heading into this week — especially not on a course dubbed “hell” by more than one exhausted competitor, made nearly unplayable by relentless rain and high winds. And yet, when the skies finally calmed and the final putt dropped, it was JJ Spaun — not McIlroy, not Scheffler, not

any of the headliners — who stood alone, soaking wet, exhausted, but victorious.

To finish off holding that final putt on his final green, holding all of 64 feet with a huge left to right swinging break of several of feet was the icing on the cake. There weren't too many spectators including Robert McIntyre who didn't clap and feel joy for JJ on holding this monstrous putt.

“Golf has taken me through every emotion,” Spaun said in his tearful winner’s press conference. “To be here now, after everything — it’s unreal.” Unreal, indeed. A 40 on the front. A daughter sick at home. Weather from a nightmare. And still… a champion.

In JJ Spaun’s story, we’re reminded of the beautiful chaos of sport. That greatness doesn’t always come from dominance — sometimes, it comes from survival.

Hanley's Captain's Prize played for in Shannon

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

CAPTAIN Colm Hanley’s prize was played for at Shannon at the weekend when there was a big turnout of members.

Dermot O’Brien (24) emerged as the winner with 63 one shot ahead of Denis McCarthy (23). Padraig McGill, (17) with 65 was third followed by Christy Moylan (13) with 67, Declan Coughlan (21) with 67 and Declan Heffernan (9) with 68. Edward Hickey (1) won the gross with 72.

Category A was won by Alan Dempsey (8) with 68 from Keith Buckley (5) with 70.

Fintan Quinn (10) won category B with 68 from James Morrissey (17) with 69) while category C was won by Michael Mulcahy (21) with 69 from Eugene McNamara (21) also with 69.

Other prize winners included Vincent Scully (7) with 70 in the past captain’s section, John Nihill (21) with 36 points in the guests section and Blake Corbett with 36 points in the junior category.

The first four in the ladies section each scored 37 points with Connie Corry (20) taking top spot on a count back from Marian Boyce (36), Lynda Quinn (18) and Mary Sheehan (20).

Aine Twomey (7) won the gross with 27 points while the 9 hole competition was won by Lucy Twomey with 16 points ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at Ennis last week was V par for the Duggan cup. The winner was John Coleman (19) with 4 up from Gerard Hannon (26) with 3 up. The gross was won by Sean Myatt with 3 down.

The category winners were Diarmuid Meere (8) with 3 up, Darragh Carmody (15) with 2 up, Tim Scanlon (21) 2 up and Kieran Ryan (25) with 2 up In last week’s ladies competition for the June medal, a singles stroke play event, the silver medal was won by Ann A. Gallery (12) with 72 nett from Mary Lenihan (15) with a similar score.

The bronze medal was won by Jean Molony (29) with 71nett from Helen Harnett (30), also with 71 nett.

In the 9 hole competition the overall winner was Celia Reilly (18) with 23 points from Claire Ruane (11) with 22 points.

The division winners were Anne Kelly (12) with 16 points, Maeve Hoey (16) with 19 points

and Bernie Brooks (25) with 21 points.

The senior ladies competition was won by Jean Molony, Maureen Moloney and Eileen Holly from Mary Murray, Alice Darcy and Mary Woulfe with third spot filled by Kathleen Pyne, Therese Lillis and Judith Brassil.

The senior men had an outing to Gort for the McKaigney cup which was a team of four competition.

The winners were Johnny Kearse, Noel Connellan, Declan Hanley and Ollie Kennelly with 81 points. They had three to spare over Ollie O’Loughlin, Gerry Scanlan, Padraic Larkin and P.J Garry.

In third place, also with 78 points, were Tony Lawler, Joe O Brien, Michael Kerin and Frank Cullinan, followed by Cyril Lyons, Ronnie Guinnane, Michael Clancy and Michael Ball with 76 points.

Fifth spot was filled by Pat Murphy, Ger Hanrahan, Ger O’Brien and Paul Kenny with 75 points with Eamonn Corry, Martin Coffey, John R Ryan and Gerry Kelly in sixth position with 74 points.

Thirty three played in the Friday open singles which was won by Anthony Linnane (27) with 42 points. He had four to spare over Mark Kenny (14) who was one ahead of third placed Michael Clancy (35).

In inter club competition Ennis lost 2.5 to 1.5 to Shannon in the mixed foursomes and they also lost to Shannon (3.5 to 1.5) in the Anne Heskin Munster trophy.

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB: The ladies Coronation foursomes at East Clare last week was won by Bridget Minogue and Catherine Murphy with 36 points one more that Maria Kennedy and Geraldine Finnegan.

The ladies Wednesday competition was won by Teresa Bradley, Margaret Lynch, Mary Brennan and Brid Hayes from Helen Downey, Ursula Hogan, Celia Moloney and Siobhan Mulcahy with third place filled by Margaret O'Brien, Breda McCarthy and Mary Hogan.

Winners in last week’s senior men’s competition were Terry Coughlan, Nick Ryan and Ger Teefy from Jim Bradley, John Nihill and Brian Corry with third place filled by Brendan Magill, Ted Harrington and Jim Fahy.

Friday’s mixed scramble winners were Ger Hoey, Steve Lynch and Brid Hayes from Teresa Bradley. Terry Coughlan and Pat Duggan with third place filled by Mary Farrell, Dominic

Stuart and Brian Corry.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Winner of the weekend’s cub singles at Woodstock was Donal Lynch (16) with 40 points. The gross was won by Tony Nugent (1) with 30 points.

Category 1(0 to 10) was won by James Kelly (8) with 37 points fromRob Cantwell (7) who had a similar score.

Category 2 (11 to 18) was won by Martin Nugent (11) with 37 points from Frak Tone (11) who also had 37 points.

James Barron (24) won category 3 (19 and over)with 40 points. Cathal Nagle and Darren Russell were winners in the 2s competition.

Last week’s open singles at Woodstock was won by John Hanrahan (18) with 39 points, one more than Brian O'Connell (28) with third place filled by Rob Cantwell (8) who also had 38 points.

Winners in the 2’s competition were Rob Cantwell (4th and 14th holes) and Steven Horgan (6th hole).

The ladies Australian Spoons scotch foursomes was won by Mary Mc Namara ad Anne Kilker with 31 points and they now go to the regional finals at the Ring of Kerry Golf Club.

Friday Nights Mixed Scramble was won by Johnny Clune, Eilis Neville & Kathleen Mc Enery with 27 nett.

The weekly open singles continues on this Thursday while the Hollys Haven Pharmacy mixed 9 hole scramble continues on Friday evening.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: The overall winner of the ladies competition at Kilrush at the weekend was Anne Cooper (37) with 38 points while the category 1 winner was Geraldine Burke (19) with 38 points from Mary Nolan (19) with 36 points.

Category 2 was won by Ailish Lorigan (20) with 35 points from Peggy Mulqueen (27) with 32 points.

Category 3 was won by Mary McCarthy (29) with 36 points from Lorett Maher (40) with 32 points DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: The competition at Dromoland at the weekend was a rumble which was won by Ruairi Price and Noel McMahon with 61 points from Brian Shally and Enda Henegan with 53 points with third spot filled by Diarmuid McMahon and Brian Foudy also 53

points.

The winner of the men’s 9 hole competition was Tom O’Brien with 23 points from John Hourican with 21 points, with third spot filled by Barry Nugent with 15 points.

The ladies Coronation foursomes was won

by Sandra Moylan and Jean Colleran while the 18 hole stableford competition was won by Cathy Casey from Jean Colleran.

LAHINCH GOLF CLUB: There were mixed fortunes for Lahinch inter-club teams over the past week. Last Sunday, the ladies senior foursomes had a nail-biting win (2&1) away to Nenagh GC while the Ladies club defeated Kilrush GC (4&1) at home in their Ann Heskin trophy first round match. The mixed foursomes team lost away to Doonbeg Links (3.5 to 1.5) in a very close encounter with the final match going to the wire on the 18th hole.

GORT GOLF CLUB: The men’s competition at Gort at the weekend was an 18 hole fourballl sponsored by Powerhouse Gym. The winners were Martin Flaherty and Con O’Donoghue with 51 points from Colman Cooney and Ronald Ryan with 48 points. The gross was won by Liam Perkins and Shane Byrne with 37 points.

Jeff Stephens (19) won the 18 hole singles with 39 points while Jack Losty (5) won the gross with 30 points.

The ladies 18 hole singles, sponsored by O’C Refrigeration saw Louise Butler (9) win category 1 with 31 points.

The Friday singles was won by Carmel Broder (45) with 35 points.

FANNY O’DEAS SOCIETY Fanny O’Deas society members played the annual Paddy Carmody memorial outing at Kilrush on Saturday.

The event was sponsored by the Carmody family.

The outing always produces keen competition with members chasing victory and the Claret jug which goes to the winner.

Mark Cottam emerged as the winner with 42 points and he had one to spare over society captain Peter O’Leary with Pat Delap in third place on 39 points followed by Brian Kilker on 38 with Liam Hayes in fifth spot.

35

Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Planning

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL We, ESB Telecoms Ltd, intend to apply for retention permission (Ref. No. 16561) and permission for development at ESB Telecoms Ltd Compound, ESB Cratloe 38kV Substation, Ballymorris, Shannon, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of retaining the existing 21.5 metre-high monopole telecommunications structure and to construct a 3.5-metre extension to the existing 21.5 metre-high monopole telecommunications structure (overall height to be 25-metre), carrying antennae and dishes, along with ancillary finial and all ancillary works.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BREAFFY NORTH, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE Take notice that C. Elders intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to construct a dwelling house, garage and proprietary waste water treatment system 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 CRONAGORT EAST, DOOLIN, CO CLARE. Take notice that Donna McAleese and Keith Bloomfield intend to apply for outline planning permission to build a new dwelling, garage, install a wastewater treatment system and all associated site and ancillary works at the above location.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy,

at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CARNAUN, DOOLIN, CO CLARE. Take notice that Felix Prummel intends to apply for planning permission to rebuild, extend and renovate the derelict house, install a wastewater treatment system and all associated site and ancillary works at the above location.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MAIN ST., DOONBEG, CO CLARE. V95 Y952.

Take notice that Brian McNally intends to apply for planning permission to renovate and extend the existing building, for use as a two bedroomed short term rental unit, connect to public sewerage and all associated site and ancillary works at the above location.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL We, Roadstone Limited applying for Permission for the construction and operation of a concrete batching plant which will produce up to 50,000 m3 of ready-mix concrete annually over an area of circa 1.6 hectares within the southern portion of Bunratty Quarry, in the townland of Bunratty West, County Clare.

The proposed concrete batching plant will include concrete plant (x 1), 100 tonne storage silos (x 4), 50,000L water tank1 (x 1), 80 tonne storage bins (x10), control cabin, admixture building, conveyor system, washout lagoons, attenuation tank, an access ramp and associated drainage

infrastructure including a settlement tank. The proposed development will involve the utilisation of both virgin aggregates and recycled aggregates.

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted to the Planning Authority with the application.

The planning application and/ or NIS may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare, during its opening hours i.e. 9.00 a.m. to 5.00p.m. Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays).

A submission or observation in relation to the application and/or NIS 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 JOE & EILEEN O’SHEA, 44 CASTLE ROCK, TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Joe & Eileen O’Shea intend to apply to the above named authority for planning permission for development comprising the demolition of existing side and rear single storey extensions, the construction of a two storey side extension and a single storey rear extension, including internal modifications together with all associated site works at 44 Castle Rock, Tulla Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LA CASA, STATION ROAD, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE Take notice that Barry and Siobhan O’Keeffe intend to apply for permission for development at the above address. The development will consist of a single storey rear extension, refurbishment of the existing dwelling including external window rooflight additions and associated site works.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea-

sonable 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 DEERPARK BUNRATTY CO CLARE Take Notice that Shane O Sullivan SO Arch Tech Design (087) 3654995 intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of James Dennis for Planning Permission to construct an extension incorporating existing garage space into extended ground floor by means of a new extension.

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 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 BALLYNACALLY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Kevin O’Reilly & Jennifer O’Donoghue intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage, complete with a new entrance, private well, sewage treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS Planning Ref: P25/20 Development Description: (a) replacement dwelling house (b) renova-

tion and reuse of existing barn (c) upgrading domestic wastewater treatment system (d) retaining existing sheds (e) associated site works and services Location: Fahee South, Carron, Co. Clare, V95 AP90 Take notice that Chris & Marietta Hickey have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P25/20. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 5 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and the site notice by the planning authority. A Natura Impact Statement has been lodged as part of this application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKNAGARHOON, KILKEE Take notice that P. Crotty intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect dwelling house, garage, foul sewer treatment plant and percolation area at the above address.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL I, Emma Crowe, intend to apply for Planning Permission at this site: Bealcragga, Connolly, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 EH00.

The development will consist of: Construction of a new farm entrance gate at the southern end of the site off Bealcragga, together with the construction of a new pitched roof barn on the southwestern side of the site for winter storage and the housing of farm machinery.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased for a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Au-

thority 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 (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

NOTICE AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT PUBLIC DANCE HALLS ACT, 1935 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 Kasterwell Limited Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Kasterwell Limited of 13-18 City Quay, Dublin intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court at Ennis District Court on the 26th of September 2025 at 10:30am for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence a Licence to use a particular place, to wit: LOCATION Woodstock House Hotel, Shanaway Road, Ennis Co. Clare Situate at Ennis, Clare, in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Dated this 10th day of June 2025 Signed McMahon O’Brien Tynan Solicitor for Applicant Mill House, Henry Street, Limerick.

To The District Court Clerk, The Courthouse, Ennis, Co. Clare And The Garda Superintendent, Ennis Garda Station, Abbey Street, Ennis, Co. Clare And Chief Fire Officer, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Co. Clare And Clare County Council, Ennis, Co. Clare

36

Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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38

Thursday, Jun 19, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz 1.

What colours do Doonbeg GAA play in?

Red and green Black and white Blue and gold

2.

Which US president owns a golf resort in Doonbeg?

Donald Trump George W. Bush Barack Obama

3.

When did Doonbeg last win the Clare SFC? 2011 2010 2015

4.

US Olympian Pat McDonald was born in Doonbeg. In what event did he win a gold medal?

Javelin Shot put Hammer throw

5.

In what year did Donald Trump visit Doonbeg?

2016 2018 2019

6.

David Tubridy became top scorer in the National Football League in what year?

2019 2021 2024

7.

Which bus route links Ennis and Doonbeg?

333 340 350

8.

What is the population of Doonbeg as per 2022?

312 198 279

Movies to see this week

9.

Doonbeg have won 3 Clare SFCs in a row on how many occasions?

1 2 5 10. The original Doonbeg Golf Club opened in which year?

2014 2004 2005

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS 2021 350 279 2 2004 Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Black and white Donald Trump 2010 Shot put 2019

Spot the Difference

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

Last weeks Answers . Hairband different colour . Hair band missing . Letter F missing on book . Name tag missing

Cruinniú na nÓg Killaloe Photo by Liam Burke

. Sharpener missing on table . Pencil missing . Needle missing on table .

39

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 19, 2025

38

Support journalism in Clare by subscribing to www.clareecho.ie/subscribe Puzzle THURSDAY, JAN 20 2022

PUZZLEPAGE

THIS THISWEEKS WEEKSPUZZLES PUZZLESJun JAN19th 20th

WORD SEARCH Blips

Slipknot

Caliph

Slippy

8

5 5

2 4

7

1/1

9

2

3

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1 6

2

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7

1

3

Ellipse Fillip

6

3 9

Eclipse

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

ANSWERS 4

7

8

3

8

4

5

6

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9

1

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7

8

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5

7

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1/13/22, 3:01 PM

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2

Millipede

2

Lollipop

5

Lipstick

9

Heliport

6

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

1

HOW TO PLAY

Flipper

3

Flippant

The Clare Echo Crossword 5

6

7

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4

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3

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2

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1

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sticky liquid (5)

Daily Quick Crossword: 13 January 2022 ,1/13/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

1 European language (6) CROSSWORD ANSWERS 1 Quicker (6) 2 African grassland (7) 4 Second sign of the zodiac 3 Eagle’s nest (5) (6) 5 Side by side (7) 8 Young eel (5) 6 Circular (5) 9 Large tent (7) 7 Not tottering or wobbling (6) 10 Nuts from a horse 9 Wretched (9) chestnut tree (7) 13 Melodious (7) 11 Helped (5) 14 Felled (3,4) 12 Polar region (9) 15 Animal at home in a sett (6) 17 Fire-raising (5) 16 Moves aimlessly (6) 19 Long pillow (7) 21 Long-necked animal (7) 18 Thick sweet sticky liquid (5) 20 Defeated contestant (5) 22 Satirical imitation (5) 23 Small wave (6) 24 Dried plums (6)

or wobbling (6) 6)

21

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22

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Daily Quick Crossword: 13 January 2022 ,1/13/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

#supermacs heart of Ennis

Phone 065 6820914

Opening Hours Mon - Sat 10am - 10pm Sun 12 noon - 10pm

(6)

E

(065) 682 0914

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Order through Supermac’s app O'Connell Street, Ennis

F

Introducing our extended delivery service available from 1pm daily

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1

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Clipboard

4

5

3

Slippage

Caliper

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SUDOKU

1/13/22, 3:01 PM

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