The Clare Echo 20/03/25

Post office in Lisdoon is saved

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ONE WEEK ahead of its looming closure, the future of Lisdoonvarna post office has been saved.

The Clare Echo understands that an operator has been found to take on the contract of the post office in Lisdoonvarna. An Post had advertised the vacancy on three occasions. The post office was due to close next Friday (March 28th).

Efforts persisted locally and a last-minute reprieve has been reached. Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) was among those leading the charge alongside Cllr Shane Talty (FF) and Clare TDs, Joe Cooney (FG) and Timmy

Dooley (FF). Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) told The Clare Echo, “Positive outcomes like this are the result of the local community, including businesses and public representatives like Councillor Joe Garrihy, coming together and working with State bodies. This hard work has avoided a very negative and long-lasting impact on the town of Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding community”.

Efforts are ongoing to save the post office in Lahinch which is due to close next month unless an operator can be found.

Caravans taking over county town

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ILLEGAL encampments are taking over the county town.

Within the space of a month, three new encampments have cropped up in Ennis, the latest is located on what was formerly the site of Ennis National School.

Access to the site of the

former primary school had been blocked off but the steel gates were forced open on Saturday with two caravans now in situ at the privately owned 4.2 acre site. Waterpark House which houses the offices of the Ennis Municipal District has an encampment on its car park while three caravans were last week removed from a green area of Clancy Park.

Brian Torpey and Bosco Clarke of the Tulla Drama Group at the St Patrick’s Day parade in Tulla Pictures of St Patrick’s Day Parades from across the county p25-38

Photo by Tom Micks

ST PATRICK’S DAY SPECIAL

The Clare Echo visits towns and villages across the county this week for a round-up of the best photos from County Clare parades. P25-38

Email: editor@clareecho.ie or NEWSDESK news@clareecho.ie

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Unit 9, The Mall, Clare Road Business Centre, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021

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‘You might top the poll now Pat...’

Former colleagues in the

Clare reps seek deferral of decision on Sceirde Rocks

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE COUNCILLORS have called on An Bord Pleanála to defer any approval of the Sceirde Rocks Windfarm project until meaningful consultation with local communities has taken place. Plans were lodged in January for a landmark 450MW wind farm with 30 turbines over 1,000 feet high in the Atlantic Ocean

off coasts of Clare and Galway. The Sceirde Rocks Offshore Wind Farm by Fuinneamh Sceirde Teoranta is to be located five kilometres to eleven and a half kilometres off the west coast.

This project will be the first offshore wind farm off Ireland’s west coast to go through to An Bord Pleanála for planning permission and is to power 350,000 Irish homes, save an estimated 550,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, and contribute up to €70m in local community initiatives. Clare councillors have said significant shortcomings in the planning and consultation process must be addressed before approval is granted.

At a special meeting of Clare County Council on Wednesday, elected members proposed a draft Chief Executive’s report to An Bord Pleanála regarding the Sceirde Rocks project. Elected members attended a briefing on Tuesday where they quizzed developers on the plans.

Concerns have been raised over the lack of adequate public consultation and strategic planning regarding the plans. Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) stated, “While consultation events have predominantly taken place in Galway, there has been little to no meaningful engagement with the residents and businesses impacted along the cable route in County Clare. This failure has denied these communities the opportunity to make clear, informed submissions on the planning application. The applicant must ensure that all impacted communities are properly consulted before this project proceeds”.

He called for proper engagement with Clare communities, a transparent and accessible consultation process that ensures all affected residents and businesses have a voice. Road use, environmental impact, and disruption to daily life of locals must also be considered.

Lynch flagged the urgent need for a comprehensive Traffic Management Plan (TMP) to be developed and made available for public consultation. “The construction phase of this project will have a significant impact on local road infrastructure. Residents and businesses need clarity on road closures, alternative routes, and mitigation measures. The Council and the public must have input on these plans before approval is granted”.

This TMP should also include a detailed schedule of roadworks, including affected sections and duration, measures to ensure local access and safe alternative routes, public consultation on traffic disruptions before the final plan is approved, full reinstatement of roads post-construction to a high standard.

Another major concern is the imbalance in community funding allocations. “The

current plan favours Galway due to visual impact considerations, yet Clare communities will bear the brunt of the construction disruption. This is unfair, and a specific percentage of community funding must be allocated to County Clare to ensure a fair and equitable distribution,” he stated.

“Without a structured approach, we risk having multiple developers installing separate ducting, leading to unnecessary environmental damage and repeated disruption to communities. A single, centralized ‘plug and play’ connection at Moneypoint must be developed to streamline offshore energy integration,” the Kilrush representative said. Energy companies are attempting to “rail-road” projects over the line, “it is an unregulated area, the Government have been pushing us down this road but are not prepared for it, we’ve been blindsided by it. We have to put our best foot forward and not give a walkover on this”.

Clare and West Clare in particular “needs to get the maximum benefit if the project goes ahead,” Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) stressed. Ducting of roads and how commercial rates are applied need to be examined, he said. “If the project gets the go ahead, we want our local contractors to have a good shot at gettingCllremployed”. Bill Slattery (FG) referenced RTÉ’s Late Debate which featured Galway TDs, Catherine Connolly (IND) and Seán Kyne (FG) discussing the matter. “It was half in Irish and half English so I only picked up the English part,” he admitted. “Have we seen any correspondence from Galway, is it outside our remit to see what they have, those two TDs weren’t happy with the communication from the developer”.

“Communication is key and also the infrastructure being brought back to the standard, we want to make sure we maximise as much revenue as we can for our county,” Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) commented. Improving infrastructure and securing local employment are essential if the project is to get the green light, Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) said.

Answers from the developers at the briefing were “very vague,” Cllr Pat Burke (FG) maintained. He said 23km of roads in West Clare will be dug up but none in Galway so a greater share of the community impact funding should go to Clare.

“Wishy washy” is how Cllr Mary Howard (FG) labelled answers from the developers. “The community development fund is for €70m, to quote a hotelier from West Clare, we hold all the cards in our hands, it is very important we have a very strong case put forward”. She said a straight answer was not provided on road closures.

Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) and Joe Cooney TD (FG) at the St Patrick’s Day parade in Tulla

Photo by Tom Micks

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LISDOONVARA’S post office is set to be saved at the eleventh hour.

In what is a case of third time lucky, The Clare Echo understands that a service operator has been identified which will maintain the future of the post office in North Clare. An Post had advertised the vacancy on three separate occasions.

On Thursday, An Post in a statement advised that the Lisdoonvarna Post Office is to cease trading on Friday March 28th. “We have exhausted all avenues to try and find a contractor to take on the post office contract there but to no avail,” a spokesperson commented. “An Post apologies to our customers for this closure, which we worked hard to avoid, but were unable to prevent”.

Efforts persisted locally and a last-minute reprieve has been

reached. Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) was among those leading the charge alongside Cllr Shane Talty (FF) and Clare TDs, Joe Cooney (FG) and Timmy Dooley (FF).

Speaking to The Clare Echo on Wednesday, Cooney expressed his confidence that a new operator will be secured to save Lisdoonvarna’s post office. “Positive outcomes like this are the result of the local community, including businesses and public representatives like Councillor Joe Garrihy, coming together and working with State bodies. This hard work has avoided a very negative and long-lasting impact on the town of Lisdoonvarna and the surrounding community”.

Deputy Cooney added, “In many other communities across Ireland in recent years, post offices have been relocated into small shops, but in some cases the community is not serviced by shops of a scale that is suitable for this addition to their business, or the owners may not be

able to take it on. This should never be a reason why a community, especially one like Lisdoonvarna, would lose such a key public service. I have asked Finance Minister Jack Chambers and Communications Minister Darragh O’Brien to reexamine the low level of financial compensation offered to the operators of such facilities in rural communities and to consider lifting the prohibition around post offices being operated by local social enterprises to ensure such vital services are retained”.

Efforts are ongoing to save the post office in Lahinch. As previously reported by The Clare Echo, Lahinch’s post office is set to close next month, An Post have advertised for applicants to take over the service following the resignation of Shane Talty as postmaster.

There are currently 31 post offices serving the entire county.

Kerry firm plans 101 houses in Parteen Lisdoonvarna wins fight to keep its post office open

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

PLANS for the construction of 101 houses in Parteen have been lodged with Clare County Council.

Kerry-based construction company KPH are seeking permission for 49 houses and 52 apartments in Athlunkard, on the Limerick border near Parteen.

KPH have applied for planning permission for a residential development on land bound by the Corbally Road to the east and access road to Carraig Midhe to the south in the townland of Knockballynameath, Athlunkard. The proposed development is due to consist of a mix of one, two and

three bedroom properties at the site which is separated from Limerick City by the River Shannon.

Jean Anne and Maurice de Courcy who own the site have given their consent for the development of which 20 houses will fall under a Part V application and be used as social housing. Plans are also included for the provision of 152 parking spaces, 14 of which will be equipped with EV charging stations as well as green areas and walking and cycling connections.

The application’s fee of over €25,000 has been paid to Clare County Council.

The Kenmare construction firm has a wide variety of clients in

Munster including Cork County Council, Northern Trust in Limerick and the Killarney Court Hotel. The company’s biodiversity plan for the site aims to “create a harmonious and sustainable environment that enhances the quality of life for residents while respecting the natural beauty and ecological significance of the area”. The plans also include outlines for a number of bat and bird boxes around the development and a hedge maze for younger children.

The project is stated to have minimal environmental impact on the surrounding area with KPH detailing that they do not expect that construction to generate any increase

in noise or dust pollution. While otters are known to frequent the banks of the river Shannon, the applicant has found that “no evidence of otter activity was identified within the site”. The Kerry firm is keen to minimise the environmental impact caused by the development and has included several ecological and landscape reports in their application along with the compulsory Natura Impact Statement. An archaeological survey also found nothing of note at the site.

It is hoped that the development will attract residents from both Clare and Limerick as the developer aims to have a mix of residents ranging in age and background.

“Existing housing in the Athlunkard area predominantly comprises three bedrooms or more. The subject scheme proposes to include 51.5% one and two bedroom units with the view to addressing the local need for an uplift in smaller housing units to rebalance the existing provision. We consider the proposed housing mix is in line with national, regional and local policies, in particular the HNDA”, the developer stated.

A decision on the proposed development is to be made by Clare County Council prior to May 1st, the deadline for submissions is April 10th.

Crusheen locals on plans to reopen the rail stop

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

CRUSHEEN is at the centre of an RRDF application from Clare County Council with locals eager to see their rail stop reopened.

On Monday last, the local authority hosted an information evening in Crusheen on the Draft Crusheen Mobility Plan and the launch of an RRDF application to support the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station, development of a Community Hub and Creche and the detailed design of future Public Realm Works in Crusheen.

In 1976, Crusheen’s original rail stop closed. The case to reopen the

stop is gathering momentum, a socio-economic report from Repucon Consulting published in September detailed an estimated market of 1,700 commuters and students currently living in the catchment of the station and an estimated economic value to the local economy of €25million arising from associated employment opportunities.

Several locals gave their views on the plans to The Clare Echo.

Stefan Zakewski, originally from Poland but living in Crusheen for a number of years spoke about when the idea was first proposed.

come to fruition. On the potential €25 million injection, he says “It’s hard to know because we have the train station in Ennis as well but it definitely would be a massive benefit to people around the local area here as well, 100%. My wife and I were only talking about it during the weekend, it’s just so convenient, you’re not worried about parking or anything”.

the village, Clarke’s Daybreak thinks that the trains would eventually pay dividends but not initially. He said local politicians “are doing their best”, to get the project moving forward. “They all seem to get the spake in”, he added. “It’s realistic but its futuristic. People are being pushed more and more off the road and there’s no alternative”.

“There was a public meeting I think seven or eight years ago in the community hall and it was a disaster. The politi -

cians were sitting up front, berating the locals to pull the finger out to make pressure and get the station reopened again. There was very little interaction. The lame excuse that we had for not getting the Crusheen station opened again was there was a gradient on the line”.

On the possible benefits offered by the reopening, Mr Zakewski added “Some of the figures that I’ve seen and heard at face value seem to be pretty high but when you actually stack up the numbers it makes sense, it’s obviously worth a consideration. Infrastructure here is poor enough and has been ne-

glected, run into the ground by both Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. We need something like this. I would use the train”.

Crusheen woman Catherine Brigdale says she would use the train if it was available. “I’d go to Galway probably because I’d only be going shopping and Galway is handier. Living here, I presume it would add to the community and the economy”. Ms Brigdale works in the Clarke’s Daybreak locally and says that train traffic would help to boost business in the area.

Patrick O’Halloran was eager to see the development

Joe Colleran disputed the findings of the socio-economic report, “that’s nonsense,” he said of the €25m value to the local economy. “I don’t know would enough people use it to be honest. It’s for people I suppose who don’t have cars, someone wants to do a bit of shopping in Galway. It depends on how much its costing for the amount that’s being got out of it, that’s what I’d be weighing up really”.

Brian Clarke, owner of the only shop in

“If you’re a student in Galway and you have maybe one or two lectures, you can hop on the train, you’re only ten minutes from the university. It would certainly take pressure off families, especially if you have two kids in college”.

l CRUSHEEN RAIL STOP: Michael O’Doherty; Claire Harkin; Louise Kearney; Michael Browne; Cllr Pat Hayes; Nollaig Barry; Aishling Tuohy; Brian McCarthy, Clare County Council; Helena McElmeel, Architect; Dermot O’Sullivan; and Cllr Tony O’Brien

lCRUSHEEN LOCALS: (L-R) Joe Colleran, Stephen Zakewski, Patrick O’Halloran and Cathrine Brigdale

External candidate will be appointed as next Chief Executive of Clare County Council

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL’s next Chief Executive will be an external candidate, The Clare Echo has learned.

Interviews are ongoing to fill the role of Chief Executive which has an advertised starting salary of €172,849. Pat Dowling stepped down from the post at the end of December after eight and a half years. The competition to appoint his successor is managed by the Public Appointments Service (PAS).

Neither Leonard Cleary or Liam Conneally, both of whom have taken on roles as Chief Executive of Galway City Council and Galway County Council from their former posts as Directors of Service with Clare County Council did not apply for the Chief Executive post in Clare. The deadline for applications closed at the end of January.

Director of Economic Development and the Ennis Municipal District, Carmel Kirby has been serving as Interim Chief Executive since the beginning of December. The Kinsale native was among the applicants for the vacancy and while she passed the initial phase of interviews, the former Limerick Chief Fire Officer is no longer in the running to become Chief Executive.

From 2017 to April 2023, Carmel was Director of Physical Development in Clare but was appointed Director of Economic Development

in April 2023, all the while remaining as Director of Services in the Ennis Municipal District and serving as a member of the board for the Ennis 2040 DAC.

The Clare Echo understands that the extensive recruitment and interview process is now down to the final three. “publicjobs cannot provide specific information or comment regarding a recruitment competition while it is active and ongoing,” a spokesperson for PAS said when questioned on the amount of applicants and when a successful candidate will be announced.

Of the last three left standing, two have strong links to Clare but none of the trio are working with Clare County Council. Liam Hanrahan and Gordon Daly are both in contention for the vacancy while it is understood Patricia Philbin is also in the shake-up.

Lahinch native Hanrahan is currently Director of Services with responsibility for Planning & Economic Development with Galway County Council.

Tuamgraney based Daly is currently Deputy Director General & Director of Corporate Services, Human Resources & Organisational Development with Limerick City and County Council.

Philbin is former CEO of Galway 2020 European Capital of Culture and is currently Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Services for Infrastructure Development, Planning & Climate Change at Galway City Council. She holds a MA in

Public

Management.

The Chief Executive has the lead role in developing and overseeing the organisational structures and resources needed to deliver an extensive range of services to the public in Clare. Paramount among the Chief Executive’s duties is to maximise the county’s social, economic, cultural and physical development to the benefit of communities and citizens throughout the County and wider area. The Chief Executive will have responsibility for the day-to-day management of the local authority, including staffing matters, and the discharge of executive functions within the policy parameters as determined by the elected council. The Chief Executive will also have a specific responsibility to advise the elected members in the determination of policy in accordance with national policy and in relation to the exercise of reserved functions while, in turn, implementing decisions.

In the advertised posting for the job, listed requirements for the successful candidate include a proven track record as a strategic leader and senior manager in a complex environment, proven experience in the management of teams and resources of significant scale.

Other sought characteristics include a demonstration of excellent interpersonal and relationship management skills and the capacity to work effectively with a broad range of stakeholders in a constructive manner.

l Director of Economic Development and the Ennis Municipal District, Carmel Kirby

Plenty of spring colours at Blossoms on the Go Garden Centre

MARCH is allowing us lots of time in the garden and with the longer evening it’s just fantastic time of year.

I look forward to all the lovely vegetables and flower that will be coming through my doors over the next few weeks.

Bare root season is coming to an end and we do have some small amount of Laurel and Griselinia in stock great bundle deals on offer while stock last .

Vegetables are in stock so if the garden is ready and you are trying decide what to plant this year this year, we have a selection of potatoes seed available and onions, with packet of shallots and garlic bulbs available.

Trays of cabbage ,lettuces, broccoli’s now in stock and tomato plants weather you have a tunnel or

an container vegetable garden we have something to suit everyone. Herbs are in stock with a selection of plants to choice from like thyme ,parsley fennel, and lots more.If you have more room available we have rhubarb and a selection of fruit bushes from strawberries to gooseberries.

There’s more colour available as each new week we have new arrivals, from annuals to perennial. Some of my favourites this time of year is the ranunculus it’s rose like flower is stunning and comes in a variety of colour and makes a lovely display in pots but be mindful of cool night it’s like to be covered.The perennial are on the increase from the mix of primulas to the lovely Little Leo know as the Doronicum a vibrate yellow daisy flowers. There are so many colourful pe-

rennial to choose from .Weather it’s a border or a rockery you want to add colour pop in to see for yourself and choose the colour you love. With mother day fast approaching we will have lots to offer weather you want to surprise her with a beautiful tree like a cherry blossom, that stand tall like our mums do, or a flower like a magnolia with its tulips like flowers we have lots of choice in store .This Mother’s Day why not personalise your gift by choosing her favourite flowers pop in and we will help you choose it . Have a fabulous week gardening.

llegal encampment pitches up at old Ennis NS site

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ILLEGAL ENCAMPMENT is now occupying the former site of Ennis National School.

Access to the site of the former primary school had been blocked off but the steel gates were forced open on Saturday with two caravans now in situ at the privately owned 4.2 acre site. Following a case at Ennis District Court on Friday, three caravans were removed from the green area of Clancy Park. Bail was granted to an Ennis father of five at this sitting on the condition that he refrain from putting the caravans on any residential area in Ennis.

It is not yet known if the occupants of this new encampment on the Kilrush Rd are connected to Clancy Park. Planning permission was granted in November 2022 for the construction of a car park, subject to eleven conditions, one of which included a contribution fee of €32,680 to be paid to Clare County Council by the applicants.

City Cinemas Ltd were behind the car park application. Permission was granted for a temporary period of five years from November 8th 2022 “after which time the use of the site as a car park shall cease and any structures shall be removed from the site, unless a separate grant of planning permission has been made for the

continuation of the use and maintenance of the associated structures”.

Access has been fenced off to the site for the past decade following instances of anti-social behaviour including two sep arate fires, the breaking of 150 plus win dows, kicked-in internal doors, grafit ti, the removal of copper piping and steel trusses, broken sanitary ware and damage to the roof of the former school building.

vised

minimum val- ue of €1.2m.

Since 2013, the 4.2 acre old Ennis NS site has been vacant following the primary’s relocation to a new state of the art facility in Ashline on the Kilrush Rd.

In 2016, the Diocese of Killaloe sold the site. It had been put on the market by the St Flannan’s (Killaloe) Diocesen Trust with an ad-

Prior to this sale, Woodhaven Developments Ltd had been in the process of applying for planning permission which they secured from Clare County Council to demolish the old school building with the consent of the Diocese of Killaloe. Developers claimed a deposit had been paid but contracts were not signed by the Killaloe Diocese.

Ennis father of five released from custody after Clancy Park illegal encampment removed

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE released an Ennis father of five young children from custody after an illegal Traveller encampment was removed from a ‘completely destroyed’ green area of Ennis.

At Ennis District Court on Friday, Judge Alec Gabbett released Martin Mongans (29) on bail after being told that three Mongans caravans were removed from a green area at Clancy Park, Ennis over lunchtime on Friday.

Mr Mongans whose youngest child is six weeks old had spent three nights in Limerick prison this week after Judge Gabbett found that he had breached his bail over the placing of a third caravan on the green area.

Earlier on Friday, Judge Gabbett said that he would be further remanding Mr Mongans in custody to March 19th after finding that he remained in breach of his bail conditions after being told that the three caravans remained on the site.

At 1.10pm on Friday, Judge Gabbett told Mr Mongans that if the caravans were removed the issue would be resolved and Mr Mongans could be granted bail.

On the family’s housing situation, Judge Gabbett said, “I am full of sympathy. The situation is dreadful”. He said, “Mr Mongans has plenty of

bodies to remove the caravans. Mr Mongans has the finest ‘meitheal’ I have seen in a long time with cousins and brothers and they are willing and able men. Why don’t they fix the problem”.

At 2.50pm, solicitor for Mr Mongans, Tara Godfrey returned to court with her client to say that the caravans had been removed from the Clancy Park green area.

Sgt Dominic Regan said that the caravans had been removed and they are currently on Drumbiggle Rd in Ennis.

Judge Gabbett granted Mr Mongans bail on condition that he refrain from placing the caravans in any residential area in Ennis.

Judge Gabbett said that the removal of the caravans and the release of Mr Mongans on bail was “a very satisfactory outcome”.

Ms Godfrey had earlier told the court that Clare County Council had instituted injunctive proceedings for the Circuit Court against her client over the placing of the caravans on the green area with the case due to be heard later this month.

Judge Gabbett warned Mr Mongans that he faced the risk of a costs bill running to tens of thousands of euro arising from the Council case.

He told Mr Mongans, “I wonder is it all worth it in the heel of the hunt. They are very expensive proceedings that the Council has to take and there is a very simple

solution to all of this”.

However later on Friday in court with the removal of the caravans, Judge Gabbett told Mr Mongans “you have sorted all your own problems out. You are in control. No one else is controlling you which is really important and you have saved yourself from legal proceedings which is a significant financial gain to you”.

Judge Gabbett remanded Mr Mongans on bail to next Wednesday where he is being prosecuted for placing a caravan on the green area.

At a bail hearing for Mr Mongans earlier this week, Sgt Dominic Regan said that with the presence of three caravans on the green area “it has completely destroyed the area”.

Sgt Regan said, “The presence of rodents in the area is directly due to the rubbish being left as a result of this caravan.” He said that the public amenity “is completely destroyed”.

A senior Council Housing official and Homeless Co-ordinator said that Mr Mongans has been suspended from the Council housing list until April 24th due to his behaviour towards Council staff. She said that “any time Mr Mongans has come to our office he has threatened and he is abusive”. She said that a vacant home was offered to the Mongans family last year but was refused.

l Illegal encampment at Ennis National School site

Ennis 2040

figures don’t add up claims former Mayor

Cllr O’Brien confused over how much money is left

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FIGURES regarding to the planned expenditure of Ennis 2040 “aren’t adding up,” a former Mayor of Clare has said.

In June 2021, elected members of Clare County Council voted to draw down a €10m loan. Five representatives at the time voted against the proposal, they were Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF), Gerry Flynn (IND), Donna McGettigan (SF), PJ Kelly (FF) and Susan Crawford (GP).

To date, €2.2m has been spent on the controversial economic and spatial strategy.

Of the five, Cllr O’Brien is the only one still to sit on the local authority. Following up on questions from Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) who was co-opted to the Council subsequent to the June 2021 meeting, the Killaloe man said the minutes from the February meeting did not include a query he made on what projects are in mind for spending the remaining €7.8m on.

“I’m reading all sorts in the media on what is planned and what is not planned, I’m concerned €7.8m will be drawn down and I’m twice as concerned with what came out of the Council meeting, €7.8m is reported to be the amount left in the Ennis 2040 fund,” he commented.

Cllr O’Brien remarked, “it seems to me only €2.5m is left, we need to have a meeting and have discussions to tease these out, these figures aren’t adding up, I’m concerned that we are answerable as the elected body for what is going on”.

He continued, “I asked for a breakdown of the proposed projects, it is not noted in the minutes that I asked, it is very relevant for this forum”. He continued, “some councillors got a briefing, I wasn’t let back in last month (to ask a follow-up question), this forum should have been briefed”.

Interim

Chief Executive of

Save Ennis Town seek clarity on 2040 ‘pause’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

WHAT PAUSE really means must be explained clearly by Ennis 2040 DAC according to Save Ennis Town.

the Council, Carmel Kirby in response said all councillors will be invited to attend a behind-closed-doors workshop on March 24.

“Will any of €7.8m be spent before the meeting,” Cllr O’Brien questioned. “We’ll discuss all that at the workshop,” the Mayor replied.

Head of Finance, Noeleen Fitzgerald said explanations have already been provided to councillors at the November behind closed doors meeting regarding the expenditure and the costs associated with sites, some of which are already in the Council’s ownership.

Standing orders were not followed when the matter was raised, Cllr T O’Callaghan claimed. “The concern in my motion and by standing orders which colleague forwarded, I wasn’t brought in to sum up, we need to ensure that is allowed at all times, I didn’t get the opportunity to sum up”.

Councillors are finding out about Ennis 2040 via the media, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) claimed. “The issue here is while we’re waiting to have a briefing, we’ve read the majority of it in the media which is not the ideal way of doing business”. He continued, “We’re all part of the Council body here, we should review how we do that business, I was of the belief that the briefing in Ennis was behind closed doors. We’re playing catch-up as councillors in the county, people asking me in Ennis what was happening over the weekend and I really didn’t know”.

Acting Director of Economic Development, Seán Lenihan said the Ennis MD briefing was “in-camera, we were asked by councillors to put something into public domain. We will be able to go into far more detail”. He said some of the projects “are still going through due process, there is commercial sensitivity to it, once we’re in position to advise you we can”.

Clarity has been sought by the community group regarding plans for Abbey Street and Parnell Street car parks, both of which were earmarked for development for Ennis 2040 until a pause was announced earlier this month.

Save Ennis Town have repeatedly clashed with Clare County Council on their plans to build on the riverside car parks in the county town. The most recent spat saw Acting Director of Economic Development Seán Lenihan questioning the legitimacy of a petition with 3,700 signatures presented last May which he called “an empty box”. In a statement to The Clare Echo, Chairman of Save Ennis Town, Gearoid Mannion outlined, “While any ‘pause’ on the ill-advised plans to build on these vital spaces in the heart Ennis is welcome, there is growing unease in the town about what this actually means”.

He added, “The question I’m being asked on the street is ‘what does a ‘pause’ really mean’. In view of the lack of meaningful consultation around these plans to date, the fear is being expressed that Clare County Council / Ennis 2040 DAC may intend to reactivate their plans at a later date and proceed with building over these vital public spaces”.

Mannion said the Council and Ennis 2040 DAC must “clarify their position, and respect the democratically expressed wishes of the people of Ennis, by signaling their clear intention to remove the proposed developments at Abbey Street and Parnell Street car parks from the Ennis 2040 project, and finally put a stop to these controversial plans”. Renewed efforts have also been made by Save Ennis Town to have a meeting with the interim Chief Executive of the Council, Carmel Kirby.

Senior officials in the Council previously advised Save Ennis Town that terms and conditions had to be met before they could agree to a meeting.

l QUESTION MARKS: Members of Save Ennis Town, pictured here at a rally in 2023, want clarity on the meaning of a pause on plans for the Abbey Street and Parnell Street car park projects

‘No conspiracy’ behind 2040 COO addressing

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THERE IS “no conspiracy” regarding the delay in the Acting Chief Operating Officer of Ennis 2040 DAC addressing a meeting of Clare County Council, a senior local authority official has said.

Speaking at the March meeting of the Council, Acting Director of Economic Development, Seán Lenihan said there was “no conspiracy” regarding the upcoming first appearance of Acting COO Padraic McElwee before a public meeting of the local authority.

This had been requested for March, then agreed for April but is now to take place in May.

In a question before the March meeting, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) sought the attendance of the Acting COO “to

allay my concerns and allow discussions” on the AECOM report, costings, rate of

return, the provision of all reports and advice received to date, a list of all assets owned by Ennis 2004 DAC, a detailed repayment schedule and confirmation that the board’s activity is fully compliant with company law governance requirements.

“My original motion submitted to the Council on the 17th February was to request the attendance of the Interim COO of Ennis 2040 DAC to attend today’s - ie the March 2025 statutory meeting - to answer questions of public interest regarding Ennis 2040 DAC finances and its spending,” Cllr O’Callaghan flagged.

Photo by Tom Micks

l Seán Lenihan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

delay of Ennis public meeting

He said he was asked and agreed to amend his motion on March 3rd at the request of the Council Executive to ask that the COO attend the April meeting instead.

“I am disappointed that now the reply has the result in pushing forward the attendance in front of the elected members to May 2025, two months later than today . I am concerned that next month in April I and my selected members might be told it may be pushed out further beyond May”.

Cllr O’Callaghan said he will be asking the COO to disclose the exact details in the company asset register of the declared €2.2m assets in the actual ownership of the Ennis 2040 DAC as at the

31/12/2024 draft accounts. He believed a special meeting on the subject was merited.

“To clarify for the benefit who thinks there is any mystery to this,” Lenihan said in response to O’Callaghan’s motion. He added, “There is no conspiracy about pushing out date, the motion was for the March meeting, the motion in front of people today was to ask could he come to the April meeting which is perfectly acceptable, we had that agreed until he told me he had his holidays planned, he is going to Portugal on the night before the April meeting”.

Disappointment was then voiced by Cllr O’Callaghan, “There is no such suggestion. We’re waiting a further eight weeks, there is no other conspiracy,” he said.

Annual Charity Golf Day in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland

THE Annual Radisson Blu Charity Golf Classic will take place at Limerick Golf Club, Ballyclough, Limerick (V94 XT10) on Friday, April 25, 2025.

Organisers say they hope the earlier than usual date for the event “will suit people better”. Tee times will run from 9-12.30pm and 2-4.30pm on a first come first served basis.

This event is being held in aid of a very worthy cause,

Down Syndrome Ireland, whom we have chosen as our Charity partners for some years.

The Entry fee is €500 per team of four. We are also accepting individual entries at €125 each and will make up teams from such individuals. Refreshments will be served at the 9th tee and there will befood served in the clubhouse on your return.

The prize giving and raf-

fle will also take place in the clubhouse when all the score cards have been returned.

The opportunity to sponsor a Tee with your brand logo/ business name for €200 is also available, whilst sponsorship of the Longest Drive or Nearest the Pin prize is available for €250 each.

If you are not in a position to enter a team or sponsor a tee, perhaps you would donate a prize for our raffle that

evening. The raffle is always very popular and all prizes are welcome.

To make a booking or for any further details, please contact Angela.mccabe@ radissonblu.com or call 061 456 200

Down Syndrome Ireland would greatly appreciate your support and the Golf Day is an ideal opportunity for business partners to meet socially and have a fun game of golf.

You are not alone with Clare Suicide Bereavement Services

CLARE Suicide Bereavement services is an organization made up of trained befrienders or listeners.

We offer 1:1 and monthly group support, family and community support to those bereaved by suicide. We are based in Roslevan shopping Centre where we have 2 lovely rooms and people can come and feel safe and com-

fortable. It is a free service and 100% confidential. There is no waiting list and we are available 7 days a week day time and evenings, people just need to call us to arrange a meeting

We also offer support to younger people and children who very often deal with grief in a very different way to adults. Each year we facil-

itate an eight week healing program which this year kicks off on Thursday the 10th of April at 7.30pm. During this program we facilitate peer to peer support for people bereaved by suicide and aim to help people find support and healing in a caring, safe and confidential environment.

If anyone would

like more information about this programme or our 1:1 and family support services they can contact us at 086 056 5373 | 087 369 8315 Or email us at sbs.clare@gmail.com

Regional News

East Clare

Dramatic scenes await in Scariff

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THE CLARE DRAMA festival returns for its seventy sixth run, taking place in the Community College Hall in Scariff from Saturday March 22 to March 29 inclusive.

Having started in 1947, it is one of the oldest festivals in the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland circuit. The top nine groups in both confined and open sections will compete in the All-Ireland finals which will be held in Claremorris and Athlone. As the preliminary circuit ends, groups will be at their best to ensure that they get one of the coveted final spaces.

“There will be something for everyone in the festival which showcases the best of amateur drama in Ireland,” said Chairperson, Doreen Hanley. Pauline Byrne A.D.A. will adjudicate the festival.

On the opening night Gorey Drama Group from Wexford, present ‘Rathmines Road’ by Deirdre Kinahan. The play is set over the course of one evening in the family home of Sandra who is selling her mother’s house. The auctioneer is Sandra’s old school friend’s sister and she and her husband Eddie arrive at the home, and it turns out that Sandra knows Eddie from 25 years ago. The play is all about secret trauma and public revelation. This play contains adult themes and is suitable for ages sixteen plus.

Sunday night sees Cooraclare Drama Group with ‘Anyone Can Rob a Bank’ by Tom Coffey. Having read about a botched bank robbery in Dublin, three lads plan how they might conduct the perfect bank heist. Imagine their amazement when two days later, a local robbery identical to their masterminds takes place.

On Monday, the local Sliabh Aughty Drama Group perform ‘Dancing at Lughnasa’ by Brian Friel. A memory play told from the point of view of Michael Evans who recounts a particular summer in his aunt’s cottage when he was seven. In the Donegal harvest of 1936, the five Mundy sisters love, survive, fight and dance. It’s a story about joy, love and loss to these extraordinary women.

Corofin Dramatic Society will perform ‘The Weir’ by Conor McPherson. The play is set in a pub on a windy night in rural Ireland. The landlord and his regulars share old stories with Valerie, a young woman who has recently arrived from Dublin. They exchange ghostly and mesmerising tales to impress the newcomer, but it is her story that stops the men in their tracks.

On Wednesday, Phoenix Players from Tubbercurry will stage another Brian Friel play, ‘Translations’. Set in a school in 1833 in the Northwest of Ireland, Friel explores language, love, relationships, co-existence, colonization, nationality and identity. This play shows how language can connect and divide people, while also illustrating the broader historical struggle between different cultures.

Flavour of the Month Productions from Listowel will perform Martin McDonagh’s ‘The Beauty Queen of Leenane’ on Thursday night. This play tells the story of Maureen Folan, a lonely woman in her early forties, and Mag her manipulative mother. Mag’s interference in her daughters’ first and possibly final chance of a loving relationship sets in motion a chain of events that are as tragically funny as they are sad.

On Friday, Brideview Drama Group from Waterford will also perform their version of ‘The Weir’.

Drama enthusiasts will be eager to compare this production with Corofin’s interpretation of McPherson’s play.

On the final night, Kilmeen Drama Group from West Cork will stage ‘The Wasp’ by Morgan Lloyd Malcom. Heather and Carla haven’t seen each other since school and their lives have taken very different paths. Carla lives a hand-tomouth existence while Heather has a high-flying career, husband and beautiful home. And yet, here they are in a café having tea and making awkward conversation. That is until Heather presents Carla with an unexpected proposition. (This play contains adult themes and suitable for ages 16+)

Curtain up is at 8.00pm each night except for the final night which begins at 7.30pm. No advance is necessary.

Council proceeding with plans for new car park in Bodyke

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PLANS to construct a new car park in Bodyke are to be lodged by Clare County Council.

On Wednesday morning, elected members of the Killaloe Municipal District approved a Part VIII application which will see the local authority file plans to construct a public car park on a green field site in the centre of Bodyke. It is the first time such an approval has been made by the Killaloe MD.

Part VIII allows for the application of planning permission for projects by local authorities. Where a project is being progressed by the local authority, planning permission is applied for under Part 8 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001-2015. The proposed site is currently grassland and does not appear to have been in use in the recent past, according to the local authority.

Senior planner and Killaloe MD coordinator, Brian McCarthy said they have been working in conjunction with the local community on the plans “over the last number of months”. He explained, “It is one of the first occasions the Elected Members of an MD exercised their discretionary function under the provisions of the 2014 Local Government Acts and performed their reserved function at MD level for a Part VIII Local Authority development”.

Proposed works include the construction of a new public car park, vehicular and pedestrian access via the R352 with alterations to the existing site entrance, the creation of pedestrian access from the adjacent Bodyke Community Park, the provision of cycle parking and repair station, public lighting and a connection to the existing surface water network in the village via a

proposed rain water garden. There will be 15 spaces in the car park which includes disability spaces and an EV charging point is also part of the plans, The Clare Echo understands submissions were made by Uisce Éireann and An Taisce prior to the application. An internal report submitted by the road design office of Clare County Council flagged standards for sightlines and sight-stopping distances were not achieved due to the existing wall boundaries and the absence of documentation to calculate the 35km/h design speed.

In a report to elected members, senior planners in the Council detailed, “the proposed car park will predominantly provide parking for events taking place in the village e.g. services in the adjoining church or at school drop off and collection times.”.

Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe MD, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) said it was a historic moment for the MD to approve a Part VIII application. “One of the key things we decided when relaunching our strategic plan was to enhance local democracy and to give the Municipal District a chance to play its own roles, this is one of the first times when it is has been enacted when we’ve passed a Part 8 so we’re leading the way”.

Proposing the adoption of the application, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) commented, “This will benefit not just the area but combined with bridge and bypass, it is another cog in the wheel of East Clare.”

More such projects are required, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) maintained. “It is something we need to see in a lot of villages going forward in the Municipal District, it will knit everything together in Bodyke which is vital and important”.

Construction to commence on 12 age friendly homes in Kilrush

CONSTRUCTION is expected to commence in April on 12 age-friendly homes in Kilrush.

Custy Construction Ltd have been appointed by Clare County Council as the contractors for the new development on Black Road. The social housing development is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage and is scheduled for completion in 2026.

Highlighting the positive social implications of this build for the people of West Clare, Clare County Council Director of Services for Social Development Jason Murphy, said “We are delighted for this project to take this important step forward in delivering age-friendly

housing in our community. These twelve new homes will ensure comfort, accessibility, and independence for their residents. This project reflects our commitment to providing high-quality housing solutions and we look forward to seeing these homes completed”.

Interim Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Dr Carmel Kirby said, “This is a fantastic development for County Clare, providing a wonderful place for our older residents to call home”.

Speaking at the contract signing Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF), added, “Today marks an exciting milestone and demonstrates the Council’s commitment to strengthening communities and promoting inclusivity for all”.

Cathaoirleach of the Social Development strategic policy committee, Cllr John Crowe (FG) commented, “This project isn’t just about providing housing, it’s about enhancing the quality of life for our senior residents and ensures the Council’s commitment to Clare’s Age-Friendly Strategy and Action Plan remains steadfast”. The project design team, managed by the Housing Department within Social Development Directorate of Clare County Council, includes, Hassett Leyden Flynn & Associates in the capacity of architects, P. Coleman & Associates as civil and structural engineers, Moloney Fox Consulting Engineers as mechanical & electrical engineers and Tom McNamara and Partners as quantity surveyors.

lAGE-FRIENDLY HOMES: Back Row (L-R) Cllr John Crowe, Liam Ryan Executive Quantity Surveyor Clare County Council, Niamh Madden Senior Executive Engineer Clare County Council, and Adrian Headd Senior Engineer Clare County Council. Front Row (L-R) Jason Murphy Director of Service Clare County Council, Cathaoirleach Clare County Council Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Dermot Custy Managing Director of Custy Construction Ltd., and Interim CE Clare County Council, Dr Carmel Kirby.

Photo by: Eamon Ward.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

West Clare

lDRAMA FESTIVAL: Performer from Sliabh Aughty Drama Group

Plaque in memory of Michael Tierney restored to O’Connell Street location

by Páraic McMahon

A PLAQUE in memory of one of Ennis’ most distinct characters has been restored to its location on O’Connell Street.

Michael Tierney had a plaque in his memory first erected in June 2021 as one of Cllr Mary Howard’s (FG) final acts during her time as Mayor of Clare, a similar plaque was unveiled in memory of Laura Brennan at the same time.

Tierney’s memorial was at the former building of Tom Mannion Travel but this was since renovated and is now the home of Beo – The Well, during the renovations the plaque was removed. The location is where many members of the public spotted Michael distributing newspapers.

At the March meeting of

the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) asked for an explanation on the removal of the plaque.

Acting senior engineer, Paddy Tiernan advised, “The Commemorative plaque to Michael Tierney was located on the external wall of a private commercial building. During recent renovations to this building the plaque was removed. Ennis Municipal District contacted both the property owner and the contractor and requested the plaque to be re-erected upon completion of the renovations. We are happy to report that both parties facilitated this request and the plaque has now been reinstated to its pre-existing location”. Tierney was an unmistakable figure in Ennis up until his death in 1998. He was renowned for taking people on mystery tours around Ennis

and held great compassion for the elderly community of Clare. With his make-up, flashy jewellery and large collection of wigs, Michael caught the attention of passers-by. His increased femininity became apparent from the 1950’s onwards at a time when homosexuality was forced to steer clear of the watchful eye of the public. Born in 1917, Michael lost his father to the First World War before he was born.

Cllr Murphy said there was “undercurrents in town” with people giving out about the plaque. “Michael Tierney was a loved character in the town, he was known to nearly the whole town,” he said.

Speaking at the Ennis MD sitting, Cllr Howard admitted, “I was a little surprised when I saw this on the agenda”. She said she was constantly met with “resistance”

with efforts to have a statue for Michael. She told the meeting she paid for both plaques and ordered them from Michael McTigue, she estimated it was €300 in total. Mary said she received assurances that the memorial was safe while works were ongoing to Beo.

Cllr Howard was critical of the discussion regarding the memorial, “it was great to see it going back up, it became something it should never have been, it was a private thing and not really a Council issue, I know the people who were advocating for it and it is back up in the correct spot which is where I wanted it to go, thanks to Michael Corey and Mary from Nozomi because that is where he stood when selling the newspapers”.

According to Cllr Pat Daly (FF), “Michael Tierney was

TY Week at Súil

one of Ennis’ greatest characters, himself and Paddy the dog were”.

Tierney was a neighbour of Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), she recalled, “he was a fantastic man, my grandmother and all her friends would really enjoy his mystery tours, we should be doing anything we can to highlight these great characters and people who stood out”. She continued, “he had a bag of money which was never touched, nobody every touched it going through the town which is testament to the great town we have”.

Clare Arts Office hosted a Transition Year work experience programme at Súil Gallery, Ennis from March 10 to March 13, inclusive. The programme provided 16 students from Ennis Community College and Rice College the opportunity to explore the inner workings of a professional gallery. Students participated in workshops across the spectrum of creativity, including: architecture; drawing; journalling; graphic design; speculative design; innovation; and curation.

Notes

ENNIS MACRA FUNDRAISER

Ennis Macra are holding a quiz fundraiser for MS Clare on Friday March 28 at 8:30pm at The Grove.

€20 for a team of four.

There will also be a raffle on the night.

IRISH KIDNEY ASSOCIATION AGM

Clare’s branch of the Irish Kidney Association will be holding their AGM next Thursday (March 27th) at 8pm in Cois na hAbhna

paraic@clareecho.ie

l TY Students complete their weeklong work experience programme in Súil Gallery, joined by Cllr Pat Daly Photo by: Paul Corey

North Clare

Celticist & professor O’Looney recalled in new book

by Tony Mulvey news@clareecho.ie

THE LIFE and times of an Ennistymon native who was a distinguished celticist and professor will be recalled at the launch of a book.

‘Brian O’ Looney (18281901) Clareman, scholar, poet and Gaelic Revivalist’ will be launched at the Inn at Dromoland on Thursday April 3 between 6.30 and 8 p.m.

The author of the book is Kilmaley native, Professor Peter A. Daly, a retired Medical Oncologist and Associate Professor of Medicine from St. James’s Hospital and Trinity College, Dublin respectively.

Aside from numerous scientific publications in the medical field, he has written Mary Mercer’s Dublin legacy 1724–2024. He was the Clare Association Dublin Clare person of the year 2023 in

recognition of his contribution to cancer care in Ireland. His maternal great grandfather was Martin O’Looney, younger brother of Brian.

The panel of speakers at the book launch will include chairperson, Liam Ashe, retired history teacher at St. Flannan’s College and Director Balo Children Ireland, Dr. Fergus Kelly MRIA, retired Senior Professor, School of Celtic Studies of the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies and great grandson of William Smith O’Brien, Michael Talty, Executive Librarian, Clare Local Studies Centre, Causeway Link, Ennis, Dr. William Nolan, Emeritus Professor of Geography, University College Dublin and Director of Geography Publications which has produced a series of ‘county books’ for all thirty–two counties and Peter Daly, the author.

O’Looney’s home district of North-West Clare was

Irish-speaking, both local and travelling scholars did much to foster an interest in the transmission of folklore.

Following an education at the hedge school run by Patrick Kelleher in the old chapel at Clouna, supplemented by practical education at Cahersherkin Model Agricultural School, founded by Sir Lucius O’Brien, he developed an interest in collecting and transcribing old Irish manuscripts.

Initially he supported Daniel O’Connell’s Loyal National Repeal Association, but when the Young Ireland intellectuals severed links with O’Connell in 1846 he sided with them.

There is no independent proof of his claim, made in poetic compositions, to have participated, alongside William Smith O’Brien, in the 1848 Rising at Ballingarry, Co. Tipperary. William Smith O’Brien’s sentence of

transportation was remitted in 1857 and he returned to Ireland where he renewed his interest in Irish studies, especially the Gaelic literature relating to the O’Briens of Thomond. He sought O’Looney out and between then and his death in 1864, employed him as a collector, scribe and poet.

O’Looney followed his patron to Dublin in 1863 and spent the rest of his years there, absorbed in academic pursuits at the Catholic University of Ireland (CUI) and the Royal Irish Academy (RIA). He became a member of the RIA in 1871 and Professor of Irish Language, Literature and Archaeology at the CUI in 1875. He assisted William Kirby Sullivan at the University in producing the three volumes of On the Manners and Customs of the Ancient Irish, derived from Eugene O’Curry’s papers and lectures. Among his major contributions at the RIA

was his work with Joseph O’Longan on the lithographic series which brought Irish manuscripts to a much wider readership.

In 1876, he was a founding member of the Society for the Preservation of the Irish Language (SPIL), a forerunner to the Gaelic League. Their achievements included successful campaigns to have Irish accepted as part of the curriculum at various levels and producing educational material in the Irish language for students.

He was almost fifty when he married a young widow with origins in Corofin.

Susan Curtin al ready had four

children and they also had four together, two boys and two girls. They enjoyed twenty four years of marriage, happy it appears but beset by financial troubles which necessitated his receiving external support to maintain his household.

He died at his home, Grove Villa House, Crumlin on December 3, 1901 and is buried in Glasnevin Cemetery

Uisce Éireann unable to provide specific cost of Ennistymon works

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

UISCE ÉIREANN ARE unable to quantify the costs of works currently underway in Ennistymon.

Works began last Monday along the L-1050 in Sroohil, Ennistymon and involve the replacement of 550m of aged watermains prone to bursts as part of Uisce Éireann’s National Leakage Reduction Programme.

Uisce Éireann have promised that this will result in a more secure and reliable water supply in Ennistymon. The works are to be carried out by Ward and Burke Construction Ltd and are expected to be completed in April.

Following repeated queries from The Clare Echo to Uisce Éireann to ascertain the costs of these works, the State-owned utility company have been unable to provide a figure. “We are unable to provide a specific investment figure for this single construction project at this time, as it is part of a larger, ongoing national programme of work known as the Leakage Reduction Programme, which is a strategic and targeted approach to improve the national water network across the country, prioritising in-

vestment where it is needed most,” a spokesperson said.

According to Uisce Éireann, €74m has been invested in upgrading infrastructure in Clare between 2014-2024.

“The replacement of old and damaged watermains in Ennistymon will improve security of supply and reduce leakage.

Uisce Éireann’s water mains rehabilitation programme is continuing nationally as we invest a further €250 million every year up to the end of 2030 - fixing leaks and replacing pipes to provide a more reliable water supply. Identifying and repairing these leaks will help Uisce Éireann to achieve our 2030 goal of a national leakage rate of 25%. The national Leakage Reduction team has made great strides since 2018 when the leakage rate stood at 46%”.

Traffic management in the form of traffic lights and a road closure are in effect while works are ongoing from Monday March 10th until April 4th on the L-1050 Sroohill, Ennistymon, with signposted diversion in place throughout the works. Local and emergency traffic will always be maintained.

Jack Cronin, Uisce Éireann Programme Manager stated, “This project is one example of Uisce Éireann’s commitment to Clare ensuring the county has resilient water and wastewater services in place which are the backbone of a thriving economy. The section of watermains in Ennisytmon was prioritised for investment and replacement due to its age and deteriorating condition.

“Replacing these old watermains that are in poor condition will ensure a more sustainable water supply, eliminate existing leaks and significantly reduce the amount of clean drinking water lost into the ground protecting our most precious resource. Fewer bursts and less leakage will also ensure a stronger water supply for homes and businesses in this busy community. We would like to thank the local community for their cooperation and patience while we carry out these essential works in the area,” he said. Last year, 900 metres of aged cast iron water mains were replaced with new modern pipes along Circular Road, from Ennistymon Garda Station and continue onto Church Hill and Victoria Terrace. The improvement works also took place along the N85 (New Road), from Linnane’s Funeral Home to Alfie’s Café.

CELTIC STUDIES: Author Peter Daly [inset image: Brian O’Looney]

Chemifloc lodge plans for Shannon expansion

by Mike Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING giant Chemifloc have announced plans for a major development in Shannon.

The chemical manufacturing firm is seeking to build a number of facilities at the company’s site in Smithstown Industrial Estate.

The proposed development will consist of “a new two storey office building with ancillary laboratories, canteen, gymnasium, meeting rooms and reception of 2250sqm, a new single storey, double height truck maintenance shed, 101 car parking spaces, 3 van parking spaces and 30 secure bicycle parking spaces”.

Chemifloc are also looking to install a number of solar panels at the site as well as a new water drainage system to service the new development. Plans for a new concrete dry storage area are also included in the application with a pedestrian entrance and sheltered waiting area also planned.

The Irish chemical manufacturers have been in operation since 1981 and operates the largest selfowned chemical tanker fleet in Ire-

land. The firm deliver to over 1600 locations and are partners with over 60 major chemical suppliers all over the world. The company primarily manufactures chemicals for the wastewater, agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors as well as odour control chemicals for Ireland’s water and effluent industries.

A landscape design report is included in the application which outlines the environmental impact the proposed development would have on the site. It states that “The proposed development consists of an extension on greenfield lands adjacent to an existing brownfield site occupied by a chemical factory and distribution site”. The landscape design aims to preserve the site’s existing biodiversity as well as introduce new habitats.

The designs state that “a strip of native woodland planting is proposed north of the dry storage area to soften the site into the landscape and extend the tree canopy in the area. Short flowering meadow verges are proposed along footpaths and parking areas to connect to the existing long tufted grass meadows on the site. Existing long tufted meadow areas are otherwise re-

tained or reinstated on completion of the works”.

The development’s traffic and

transport management assessment predicts that the site will experience peak traffic between 7.30am

Pontential Shannon Airport Tech Hub could create

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MAKING SHANNON AIRPORT a national technology testing hub “presents huge potential” for both the Airport and Mid-West region, a Clare councillor has said.

In a proposal before Clare County Council, Cllr David Griffin (FF) called on the local authority to engage with both the Shannon Airport Group and the Department of Transport “to ensure we maximise the potential of the programme for Government commitment that Shannon Airport become a national technology testing hub”.

As part of the aviation section in the Programme for Government, there is a commitment to develop a national sustainable aviation fuel policy roadmap and to Shannon Airport as a hub for testing new aviation technologies. The document also plans to conduct a review of the National Aviation Policy “to maximise use of our airports in the regions including Donegal, Ireland West

high-end, well-oaid

(Knock), Shannon, Cork and Kerry”.

Speaking at this month’s sitting of the Council, Cllr Griffin referenced these commitments of his own party. “This presents huge potential for airport and the wider Mid-West region, Shannon Airport has always been to the fore,” he said while listing out several firsts including the first stop-over, the first European airport to offer customs, the inception of the duty-free under the eye of Brendan O’Regan and how he spearheaded the introduction of economic development zones.

“We’re onto a new phase of development, it is very encouraging to see a national focus on Shannon and sustainable aviation fuel, utilising AI and drones, we are on the cusp of a huge advancement,” the Newmarket-on-Fergus native stated.

Tech-specific work is already ongoing in the Shannon Free Zone, Cllr Griffin flagged. “We already have cutting edge engineering and tech companies looking at the Shannon Indus-

and 9.15am and between 5.15pm and 6.15pm. Two of the site’s 101 car parking spaces will be equipped with EV charging facilities. The report also found that local roads would be able to sustain the level of traffic required by construction and that the proposed car and cycle parking facilities are in line with Clare County Council’s Development Plan.

In order to reduce noise, Punch Consulting Engineers have pledged that “All vehicles and mechanical plant will be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and maintained in good working order for the duration of the contract”. They also state that “Any plant, such as generators or pumps, required to operate before 07:00hrs or after 19:00hrs will be surrounded by an acoustic enclosure or portable screen” and that “location of plant shall consider the likely noise propagation to nearby sensitive receptors”.

Punch Consulting Engineers estimate that the development will require at least 40 tradespeople to complete.

A decision on the application will be made by Clare County Council before April 10.

jobs

trial Estate including Jaguar and Future Mobility Campus Ireland”. He said green fuel’s potential was also examined by the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce. Seconding the proposal, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) prasied the commitment of Cllr Griffin to Shannon Airport, “he is a young new councillor, he has the vigour to ensure Shannon continues to grow into a new world paradigm which will come into the future. I know your predecessor Cllr McMahon would always remind us to mention Shannon is an International Airport”.

Flights from Shannon to Heathrow have operated with bio-fuel for the last eighteen months, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) highlighted, “the transition to bio-fuels has already started”. “I am delighted to support my colleague, it is well researched,” said Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF).

Cllr Griffin admitted, “I wasn’t aware they were operating bio-fuels”. He continued, “These are jobs we want, they will be high end and well paid”.

Volunteers to assemble in Newmarket -on-Fergus for Daffodil Day

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

VOLUNTEERS in Newmarket-on-Fergus will be collecting funds for The Irish Cancer Society on Daffodil Day.

In what will be the thirty eighth Daffodil Day, a team of collectors and daffodil suppliers are busily preparing in Newmarket-on-Fergus. Collections have taken place in Newmarket-on-Fergus annually on Daffodil Day since 1994 and will once again on Friday March 28th.

Monies collected go towards the services to cancer patients and their families. Some of the free services provided in Clare last year included 242 night nursing care visits, 229 free lifts via the volunteer drivers service to bring patients to and from treatment and 291 supportive and comforting conversations through their support line and Daffodil Centres.

Local organiser in Newmarket-on-Fergus, Mary Woods said, “The society

provides many other services including counselling, Children and Young Adolescents cancer services, an extensive website, early detection roadshows and very important ground-breaking research

Your generosity on March 28th will mean so much to cancer patients and their families.

“Daffodil day would not happen without the support of the many collectors, daffodil suppliers and the businesses who facilitate collection,” she added.

l SHANNON EXPANSION: Chemifloc

l DAFFODIL DAY: Back row: Patricia Nealon, Brigid Liddy, Mary Murray ICS Community Fundraising Officer Midwest, Mary Burke, Molly O’ Donnell, Mary Donnellan, Sheila McGrath. Front row: Mary Woods Organiser, Mary McMahon and Brigid Coughlan Previous Organisers

Gort & South Galway

CELT hosts community Tree Planting Day in Galway as part of ongoing partnership with Slieve Aughty Centre

by Emily Ross news@clareecho.ie

AS PART of National Tree Week, CELT, an environmental education organisation, hosted a community tree planting event at the Slieve Aughty Centre in Galway on Saturday, March 15, 2025.

This event was a small but significant part of an ongoing collaboration between CELT and the Slieve Aughty Centre to restore biodiversity and promote sustainable land use in the region.

Speaking with The Clare Echo, Martina Finn, an education coordinator with CELT, explained the organisation’s origins and goals:

“CELT was founded in 2001 in East Clare, driven by a local community interest in reviving traditional skills that had been lost over time,” she shared. “There was a growing concern about the environmental degradation caused by changes in land use, industrial agriculture, and a lack of awareness about the importance of protecting the natural environment. That’s where CELT stepped in, aiming to educate people on the need to reconnect with nature and revive traditional, sustainable practices.”

CELT’s educational focus includes using locally-sourced natural materials for traditional crafts like basket-making, leather work, and herbal medicine, which once formed the backbone of rural life. These skills, rooted in a deep connection to the land, are increasing-

ly rare today but continue to be celebrated through CELT’s initiatives.

The tree planting event was a major highlight, but it is just one part of CELT’s broader, long-term partnership with the Slieve Aughty Centre.

“This project is a new venture in collaboration with the Slieve Aughty Centre,” Martina explained. “It’s part of a larger educational initiative focused on nature restoration, biodiversity, and afforestation. The goal is to create a working model where landowners and farmers can learn how to restore natural habitats and biodiversity on their own land.”

The project will showcase sustainable practices, providing a real-life example for farmers and landowners on how to incorporate biodiversity restoration within agricultural landscapes. Key to this initiative is the focus on restoring native trees and hedgerows. “We’re committed to using only native species—hawthorns, blackthorns, willows, oaks, birches, and alders,” Martina said. “These trees are essential to supporting hundreds of species, which ultimately fosters the biodiversity we’re working to protect.”

While the aim isn’t to transform the entire 17-acre site into a native woodland, the project will restore pockets of land to their natural state, including wetlands and ponds, while still maintaining the area’s agricultural function. This

balance could be pivotal in offering a solution to the dilemma of how to mitigate climate change without disrupting Ireland’s vital farming industry.

Martina highlighted the historical significance of the area:

“Slieve Aughty was once renowned for its native woodlands, but today, much of it has been replaced with non-native trees,” she said. “This project aims to bring back what was lost and restore the great forest of Aughty—both for environmental and cultural reasons.”

She noted the striking contrast in tree cover between Ireland and other European countries: “Thousands of years ago, Ireland was 80% woodland, but now we’re down to only 2%. In comparison, most European countries have about 25% native woodland. We have a long way to go.”

In addition to its work with the Slieve Aughty Centre, CELT collaborates with a range of organisations, including Abhainn Dá Loilíoch and Tuamgraney Community Development, to promote agroforestry—the integration of trees into agricultural practices. This approach helps farmers manage land sustainably while increasing tree cover and supporting biodiversity.

“Trees are critical in mitigating climate change,” Martina explained. “They capture carbon, prevent flooding by slowing water runoff,

and provide essential habitats for wildlife. That’s why restoring tree cover is a crucial nature-based solution to climate change and environmental challenges.”

With this project, CELT is playing a key role in helping to combat

climate change and restore Ireland’s natural landscapes. By promoting agroforestry, native woodland restoration, and broader environmental education, CELT is helping to create a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.

lNATIONAL TREE WEEK: CELT members at the community tree palnting event

l Pictures from Gort St.Patrick’s Day Parade

Photos by: Tom Micks

A lasting gift of style: Why a gift card is the perfect Mother’s Day surprise!

MOTHER’S Day is just around the corner, and if you’re looking for a thoughtful and versatile gift, a County Boutique Gift Card could be exactly what you need. Whether you’re treating

your mum or grandmother, a gift card offers the freedom to choose something stylish and high-quality, from an elegant dress for an upcoming wedding to a colourful new

addition to their everyday wardrobe, ensuring your loved one gets something they will love and actually use. Whether they use it to purchase a stunning outfit for a wedding or to refresh their everyday wardrobe, a gift card ensures they get something they’ll truly enjoy. It’s a meaningful, versatile gift that can be cherished long after Mother’s Day. https://countyboutique.ie/ products/gift-card

Something Special for a Wedding or Event

Mother’s Day coincides with prime wedding season, and every mum wants to feel fabulous for these celebrations. A County Boutique Gift Card gives them the opportunity to select an outfit they’ll feel confident in—whether it’s a stunning dress, co-ord or a sophisticated jumpsuit. It’s a thoughtful way to let them invest in something special they wouldn’t necessarily splurge on for themselves – take a look at Caroline Kilkenny, Moskada and Matilde Cano on www. countyboutique.ie

Chic and Practical Everyday Wear

On the other hand, you can choose to personally select something to refresh an everyday wardrobe with fashionable and versatile

pieces. From colourful tops to comfortable yet stylish jeans or trousers, in the County Boutique you will have lots to choose from when selecting clothes that can be worn all year round. Whether they need casual wear for weekends or a versatile piece to wear at work, there is a myriad of options from brands

such as Mos Mosh, More & More, Vilagallo and White Stuff. Check us out on www.countyboutique.ie for the latest arrivals.

The Value of Investment Pieces County Boutique has always offered a selection of beautifully crafted, timeless clothing made with superior fabrics, which are designed to last for years. These aren’t just trendy pieces; they’re wardrobe staples that stand the test of time that also make you stand out from the crowd. We adore brands such as Psophia, Marccain and Joseph Ribkoff, for which we are exclusive stockists in Co. Clare.

Making It Personal At County Boutique we offer comprehensive styling advice. You can book an appointment to have your wardrobe edited and get advice on what you need to add to make what you already have work better for you. So, you can purchase one of these experiences https:// countyboutique.ie/collections/ experiences online too, especially if your Mum has a special event coming up. If you want to make it extra special, why not join her on a shopping trip and make a day of it—enjoying time together while she selects something she loves.

The Gift That Keeps on Giving So this year, give your mum a gift that’s as fabulous as she is—and let her treat herself to something special with a gift from the Coun-

ty Boutique or a County Boutique Gift Card!

Psophia Top

Mos Mosh Jeans €150

Bonte Koko dress €165

Celebrate this Mother’s Day at the beautiful Inn at Dromoland

CELEBRATE Mother’s Day at the Inn at Dromoland on Sunday 30th March. Join us in our Deerfields Restaurant for a delicious lunch menu from 1-5pm on the day. Offering a four-course set menu for adults and a three course children’s menu, we guarantee an unforgettable meal for you and your family. To mark the occasion, we will also have a special gift for the mothers in the group and we will keep all the younger guests entertained by providing an hour play time in our indoor fun zone ‘The Play Inn.’

For a more informal gathering Shannigans Gastro Pub will also be open on the day. Our weekend brunch menu will be available from 10.30-12 and our bar food menu will be available from 12.30-9. Order a la carte and enjoy some of county Clare’s finest local ingredients over lunch or dinner.

Book your table in Deerfields or Shannigans now and make your reservation today by calling 061-368161 or by emailing info@theinnatdromoland.ie

If you’re also considering a present for the wonderful Mams and Mums in your life, why not purchase a gift voucher from the Inn at Dromoland. Choose from a wide range of vouchers including Afternoon Tea, Shannigans Gastro Pub vouchers or a monetary voucher to a value of your choosing. Vouchers can be purchased online through www.theinnatdromoland.ie or in-person at hotel reception in the lead up to Mother’s Day.

How kinseology can help students with exam stress

IN TODAY’S society the issue with exam stress is a level too high. In particular, I refer to the leaving cert. With a child doing the leaving cert I would go to say that the whole house is doing the leaving cert, it is a big stress for the whole family.

Student exam stress refers to the anxiety, pressure or worry that students experience in the lead up to or during exams. This stress can be caused by several factors including fear of failure, the pressure to perform well, the amount of study required or concerns about the outcome- the road to college etc.

Symptoms of exam stress can include nervousness, difficulty concentrating, trouble sleeping or physical symptoms such as headaches and stomach aches. In Clare Wellness Clinic it is a common experience for students at all levels of education.

The leaving cert is probably the most stressful exam one will take, and it is an important milestone in life. It is a lot of pressure with a big

Leabhar

impact on future academic and career opportunities.

Using kinesiology can be an effective way to manage exam stress by using techniques that promote relaxation, improve balance the bodies energy.

Stress reduction- I use muscle testing to identify areas of stress and tension in the body. By correcting these imbalances, it helps reduce physical and mental stress promoting a sense of calm.

Enhancing focus and memorycertain kinesiology techniques are aimed at improving brain function and co-ordination between the left to right side of the brain. This leads to better focus, concentration and memory recall during exams and study.

Emotional balance- Kinesiology addresses emotional stress by identifying individual emotion specific to each person and using techniques to release emotional or mental blocks that may affect performance, such as anxiety, selfdoubt and fear of failure.

álainn

Promote relaxation- specific movement and breathing exercises in kinesiology help to activate the parasympathetic nervous system which encourages a relaxed state, making it easier to deal with stress leading up to and during exams.

Energy flow- with stress and trauma comes unbalanced energy in the body. I use techniques like acupressure, tapping or gentle stretches which restores energy of the body which can also improve overall wellbeing and reduce stress levels.

A future performance technique is used at this point to bring a clear vision of the students own personal goal. Each student presents at the clinic with various symptoms and stress. Each student is in receipt of a treatment tailored to their emotions/ stress using techniques such as ESR, future performance, mindset reset, goal setting, time management around study/ play, creating the correct environment for study to name a few. Australian bush flower remedies are a great tool to

faoi Inis Oírr/ A beautiful book about Inis Óirr

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

ANOIS go bhfuil an tseirbhís farantóireachta as Dúlainn ar ais don tséasúr nua, déanaigí cinnte cóip den leabhar gleoite seo a fháil dhaoibh fhéin! Tá 276 grianghraif de mhuintir agus áiteachaí spéisiúla Inis Oírr inti. Ennis native, Michael Ó’Flanagan’s ‘Inis Oírr — The Jewel of the Aran Islands’ documents Inis Oírr from 1971 through to the present day and offers an intimate look into what makes Inis Oírr such a treasured destination for the people of Clare and beyond. l Beidh spraoi agaibh ag léamh agus ag breathnú thríd an leabhar iontach seo

Imeachtaí/Events:

lSIONNA – Ciorcail Comhrá, Wolfe Tones, Dé Sathairn, 15ú Márta, 7.30pm lCILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar lLUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach lClare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM lCILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm lINIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Máirt ag Zest 11am, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), Dé hAoine The Market 11am, agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com

lLUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389. lAN SCAIRBH – Lón i nGaeilge, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé ‘An Gáirdín’, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

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

support students. These remedies are specially selected to suit individual students along with kinesiology testing.

Having a positive mindset and the vision to look at your own indi-

vidual journey and goals is a great start. Getting into your own lane and owning it is crucial. “It is not the mountain that we conquer, but ourselves.”

Thought for the weekOur beautiful angel dragonfly Aoife Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

ON THIS day 5 years ago we lost my amazing fabulous niece Aoife, our beautiful Angel Dragonfly, at only 14 years of age in an awful tragic way.

During her short life Aoife taught me a lot of things about living, but she also taught me that you don’t have to balance the seesaw of life on your own.

Aoife treated every friendship like a tiny miracle. Aoife held love and connection so gently in her palms as though they could shatter at any moment, as though she couldn’t quite believe she was so lucky as to have these beautiful things in her life.

Aoife has taught me that living isn’t about doing more or working more or playing more or being more, it’s about the connections we make and the friendships we hold dear and the people we help and those that help us.

Thought for the Week

As your thought for the week, always remember that life’s road is sometimes extremely tough, because the time we have with our loved

ones is just simply not long enough, especially when they are taken away tragically.

I will finish by thanking everyone who helped our family, especially Aoife’s parents and grandparents in any way over the last five years. We would have been further lost without your love and care.

Here is the reflection I wrote about Aoife for her funeral ceremony and hopefully it might help those of you who have lost loved ones recently.

Our beautiful angel dragonfly Aoife - Once, in a little pond in the little town of Clara my own dear native home, in the muddy water under the lily pads, there lived a little water beetle named Aoife in a community of water beetles. They lived a simple and comfortable life in the pond with few disturbances and interruptions. Once in a while, sadness would come to the community when one of their fellow beetles would climb the stem of a lily pad and would never be seen again.

They knew when this happened; their friend was dead, gone forever. Then, one day, the little water beetle Aoife felt an irresistible urge to climb up that stem.

However, Aoife was determined that she would not leave forever. She would

come back and tell her friends what she had found at the top.

When she reached the top and climbed out of the water onto the surface of the lily pad, she was so tired, and the sun felt so warm, that she decided she must take a nap. As Aoife slept, her body changed and when she woke up, she had turned into a beautiful purple-tailed dragonfly with broad wings and a slender body designed for flying. So, fly Aoife did! And, as she soared she saw the beauty of a whole new world and a far superior way of life to what she had never known existed.

Then Aoife remembered her beetle friends in the Little town of Clara and how they were thinking by now she was dead. She wanted to go back to tell them, and explain to them that she was now more alive than she had ever been before. Her life had been fulfilled rather than ended. But, her new body would not go down into the water. Aoife could not get back to tell her friends the good news. Then she understood that their time would come, when they, too, would know what she now knew. So, Angel Aoife raised her wings and flew off into her joyous new life! Amen.

Spanish Point TY students take part in large-scale beach clean-up

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

A group of 42 volunteers gathered at Spanish Point Beach in County Clare on Wednesday, March 12, for a large-scale beach clean-up and litter survey organized by Clean Coasts in collaboration with Transition Year students from St.Joseph’s Secondary School, Spanish Point and the local Spanish Point community group.

The clean-up, part of the ongoing efforts of the Free LitterAT project, a European initiative under the INTERREG Atlantic Area programme, aimed at tackling marine litter along the Atlantic coastline.

The project involves collaboration between Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and France, focusing on waste management within the fishing sector and engaging coastal communities in vital actions such as beach clean-ups and marine litter surveys.

The volunteers collected an impressive 80kg of waste from Spanish Point Beach on the day, with the data from the litter survey being recorded for use in the Free LitterAT project. This citizen science effort will contribute to the development of best practice guidelines and marine litter simulation models, offering essential insights to policymakers working to address environmental challenges.

Ollie O’Flaherty, Clean Coasts Officer for Clare, expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success, saying, “It was fantastic to see all the students enjoying the survey and actively participating in such impactful citizen science action on the beach in Spanish Point on a sunny day.”

Angela Gammell, a member of the Spanish Point Community Group told the Clare Echo “we greatly appreciated the help from the school students and their teachers. We were very impressed with their knowledge and awareness of envi-

ronmental issues.”

“It was a great opportunity for the students to learn more about marine coservation. A small group came back a few days later to help the community group with marram grass planting as part of the dune res toration project, undertaken . The data collected from this event is part of Clean Coasts’ ongoing work to tackle marine litter. It aligns with the findings from their Big Beach Clean initiative, which in 2023 saw volunteers collect 15 times more fishing-related waste along Ireland’s western coastline compared to the previous year. This highlights the urgent need for continued, targeted action to reduce marine litter.

environment and engaging communities in meaningful action.

Alongside this beach clean-up organised as part of the Free LitterAT Project, the Spanish Point community Group

own ‘Big Beach Clean-Ups’.

The group runs two cleanups a year, one during national spring clean week in April and a second one at the end of the holiday season in September.

In addition to its beach clean-up activities, Clean Coasts offers the Clean Coasts Roadshow, a series of workshops and talks designed for coastal communities across Ireland. The Roadshow, which runs from January to May each year, serves as a platform for local groups to discuss topics like marine biodiversity, wildlife, sustainable developments, and how to build volunteer capacity. It also provides an opportunity for community groups to share responsibilities and attract new members in their efforts to protect local beaches and seas.

The Free LitterAT project and the Clean Coasts Roadshow are essential components of Clean Coasts’ long-term commitment to preserving Ireland’s coastal

In addition to these cleanups the Spanish Point Community have spearheaded a number of projects such as walking maps, audio guides and community events to enhance the area. Between the months of April to August, the group also organise weekly maintenance sessions to weed the flower beds around the area, paint the public furniture at the beach and “to look after all the little things that keep the place looking good” explained Angela.

Due to the effort put in by the members of the Spanish Point Community Group, the organisation was named joint winners, with Ennsicrone of the Clean Coast Community Group of the Year 2024.

lCLEAN COASTS: TY Students from St.Joseph’s Secondary School at the Clean Coasts beach cleanup at Spanish Point

Rita calls out Council for issuing ‘repeated update for months’ on status of Kilrush Maritime Training Centre

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PRODUCING a repeated report on the progress of the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre in Clare County Council’s monthly management update has been criticised by a West Clare representative.

Since May 2024, Clare County Council’s monthly management report has said “work is continuing on the preparation of a funding application” for the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre.

“Work is continuing on the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre Project to identify a suitable funding stream to cover the remaining funding gap within the project. The Project Team are liaising with the Department of Rural Regeneration and Community Development with respect to due diligence on the projects funding allocation,” the update this month outlined, the same update has been issued since October.

In January, elected members of the Council were informed, “the Project Team are liaising with Enterprise Ireland in relation to the Smart Regions Fund and discussions on this should conclude in the coming weeks at which point Clare MEZ DAC can decide on the suitability of this scheme for Kilrush Maritime Training Centre”.

Enterprise Ireland have yet to conclude their analysis of the Smart Regions funding scheme to establish if the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre project can apply to this scheme, councillors were informed this month. Under stream one, €145 million is being made available to infrastructure projects which provide innovative capabilities to the region.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) pointed out the repeated use of the same report as she called out the top table of the local authority. “The same report has been in the monthly management report for the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre for the

last number of months so I’m concerned about this,” she admitted. She continued, “the Department have said due diligence is ongoing but it seems to be a very slow process, I’d like more information on how the project is progressing”.

West Clare would receive “a huge lift” from the centre, the Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Muncipal District maintained. “Areas in Kerry and Galway are progressing on training for offshore wind, we need to be ahead of the game to get in on that,” the Doonbeg native maintained.

Interim Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Carmel Kirby in response said, “We’re pursuing a grant under smart regions fund to fund the shortfall, it is quite a significant shortfall in funding that project, we’d like certainty under that grant and certainty on the Dmapping on the Shannon Estuary, that is why you haven’t seen any major update on it”.

lKILRUSH MARITIME TRAINING CENTRE: Kilrsh Marinan

Arts & Culture

“As an artist I make art that’s supposed to disrupt”Shannon-based rapper on the comeback as a solo artist

by LISA MULLALY

Shannon-based rapper God Knows has once again made waves in the music scene, this time taking his talents to Dublin as a solo artist.

On St. Patrick’s Day, March 17, 2025, God Knows performed at the iconic Guinness Storehouse as part of a special nine-artist lineup, hosted by Mo-Cultivation. The event, organized by the Dublin-based organization known for cultivating events, creating opportunities for creatives, and celebrating Ireland’s urban and underground artists, was a major highlight in God Knows’ growing solo career.

This high-profile performance followed the release of his latest single, ‘The Art of Alienation’, which dropped on February 28, 2025, via Narolane Records. The track marks his first release of the year, coming on the heels of his 2022 EP ‘We

Move The Needle’, and serves as a powerful statement of self-expression and musical evolution.

Known for blending Zimbabwean and Irish influences, God Knows has cemented his reputation as one of Ireland’s most dynamic voices in hip-hop. His work, spanning both his solo career and his influential role in the hip-hop group Rusangano Family, consistently tackles themes of identity, belonging, and cultural connection. In 2016, his album ‘Let The Dead Bury The Dead’ made history as the first hip-hop album to win the Choice Music Prize for Album of the Year in Ireland.

‘The Art of Alienation’ is a deeply personal track, exploring feelings of displacement and the search for identity—experiences shared by many immigrants, including God Knows himself. Drawing inspiration from OutKast’s The Art of Storytelling series, the song blends God Knows’ introspective lyrics with vibrant beats, creating a powerful journey of self-discovery. The track’s narrative is rooted in Shannon, the

town where God Knows has lived since moving to Ireland as a child.

He explains, “The track speaks of my journey as a first-generation immigrant from the first made-up town in Ireland called Shannon after the river Shannon. I explore the rich history that it holds and my trials grappling between my identity as a Zimbabwean and as an Irish man.”

Following the success of ‘We Move The Needle’, God Knows continues to evolve his musical style. In ‘The Art of Alienation’, he blends his Zimbabwean heritage with his Irish upbringing, tackling complex themes of identity and belonging. This new release marks a significant step forward in his solo career, building on the fusion of African rhythms like amapiano and Zimdancehall that were

Exhibition of paintings from Clare artist at The Gallery Cafe

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

A COLLECTION of paintings by Clare-based artist Grace Wallis is currently on display in the Gallery Café in Gort.

The exhibition entitled, ‘There they were dignified, invisible’ has been open to the public since February 16 and will remain open until April 16.

Grace an oil painter based near Carran in Co.Clare first became interested in art as a child. With both of her parents being artists, Grace was surrounded by art from a young age.

Although Grace grew up in a family of creatives, she never believed that art was something that she would pursue as a career. This belief led her to step away from art as a teen, but she eventually found her way back to the easel after starting an undergraduate degree in film and finding that this path was not for her.

“I dropped out because I didn’t like working with a group of people and not having autonomy over my own projects.”

At a loss for what next step to take, Grace decided to enroll in a portfolio course in Galway Technological Institute as art was always a subject she had an interest in. While completing the course, Grace fell back in love with art and went on to study in the Limerick School of Art and Design, specialising in painting.

“The reason I was drawn back to art is because we spent so much time drawing and looking at things, this makes you a lot more engaged with where you actually are and with the things around you and I really liked how it made me see things”, Grace explained.

Grace’s cur rent exhibi tion is a col lec tion of

paintings from Covid times and the surrounding years.

The paintings depict a mixture of childhood memories, scenes inspired by the Covid-19 lockdown, as well as some brief moments she encountered while on an artist’s residency in Barcelona.

At the time when these paintings were created , Grace was finding her way back into the painting. She says that she can see a progression in her artistry through these paintings.

“Because I was still in college then I was still learning how to paint, or how I wanted to paint and that was also a big part of some of those pieces. I was just kind of understanding the medium.”

“My work now is quite different than from what’s in that show, and I suppose it is interesting to look

featured in his 2022 EP.

As a co-founder of Narolane, God Knows remains a key figure in Ireland’s growing hip-hop scene. Through the label, he supports emerging artists, playing an active role in mentoring and fostering the next generation of Irish talent. Starting Narolane, he has said, was “the most difficult but most rewarding thing” he’s done in his career.

“It has taught me that you can be in this industry and you don’t necessarily need a major record label behind you,” he reflects.

For God Knows, music has always been about more than just making hits—it’s about telling authentic stories that resonate with listeners. Since the beginning of his career, he has used his platform to address racism, sectarianism, and the complexities of Irish society. His mission remains to create art that sparks conversations and makes an impact.

“I’ve realised now is the time to make noise, it is not the time to shut your mouth,” he says. “As an artist, I make art that’s supposed to disrupt,

that’s supposed to evoke feelings of either ‘yes I’m with you’ or ‘I hate this guy.’ I am continuing to make the conscious decision to make art that impacts society.” Fans who missed his debut live performance of ‘The Art of Alienation’ at Dolan’s in Limerick on March 1, 2025, can look forward to future performances. God Knows has promised exciting releases throughout 2025, teasing, “Dolan’s is just a small glimpse of what’s to come. I’ve been sworn to secrecy by my team, but look out for the next single because it’s gonna blow your socks off.”

As God Knows continues to evolve as an artist, ‘The Art of Alienation’ serves as a reminder of his unique voice and unwavering commitment to exploring identity, belonging, and the immigrant experience through music. His journey is one of constant growth, and with this new single, he solidifies his place as one of Ireland’s most influential and innovative voices in contemporary music.

lTHE ART OF ALIENATION: Shannon-based rapper God Knows

l Revellers enjoy the Newmarket-on-Fergus parade on Monday, including (right) Ger Ryan, Eddie Dunne with baby Sonny with Winnie the Pooh; horsing around (centre) is Ger Devanney while (top right) Brendan and Marie Arthur enjoy the celebrations

Photo by Joe Buckley

l The people of East Clare were in high spirits at the Feakle Parade on Monday, where local councillor Pat Burke (above) was spotted trying to get the attention of the parade judges; while (left) the senior hurling heroes of Feakle joined St Patrick to parade the Canon Hamilton

Photos by Tom Micks

l Members of Burren Sonas Kindergarden (right) taking part in the Kilfenora St Patricks Day Parade; (below) Sheamie Garrihy leads the way

Photos by Natasha Barton

l (above left) Joshua Mahfouf Looney takes part in the Kilfenora St Patrick’s Day Parade; (above) Aine, Emer, Amy, Holly, Belle, Aisling and Layla from Kilnaboy NS; (below, left) Eoin Lowry from Laois watches on from his Dad’s shoulders; (below right) Jamie O’Dea as Trump alongside Brianna O’Dea and Sarah Nestor Photos by Natasha Barton

l Donald Trump was a reccuring theme of St Patrick’s Day parades across Clare, and Kilrush was no different; (right) the Kilrush Choral Society portray the Addams Family and (below right) members of Kilrush RFC

Photos by Gerard O’Neill

l

attend the

Sixmilebridge

Huge crowds

Sixmilebridge St Patrick’s Day parade including (above) Elle, Corey and George Clifford with Linda Murnane; (top right) members of the local Scouts with their snake project; (right centre)

Camogie Club and (far right)

Lily Flannery with Sarah Conlon; (right) Charlie Roche gets to grips with a baby goat and (below) Nuala, Nessa and James Caufield; (bottom right) huge crowds line the street

Photos by Joe Buckley

l The St Patrick’s Day Parade in Ballina-Killaloe breached land and water, attracting a large turnout; (left) Donald Trump trying to get his hands on Irish minerals while sitting on garden furniture from McKeoghs Hardware

Photo by Siobhan Cahill

Photo by David Markham

Photo by David Markham

Photo by Robert Fairfield

Photo by David Markham

Photo by Gordon Thomson

Photo by Siobhan Cahill

Photo by David Markham

l The St Patrick’s Day Parade in Scariff was a big hit with adults, children and canines alike

Photos by Vera O’Rourke

l The Parade in Gort was a colourful event, with Gort Credit Union acting as grand Marshall (centre)

Photos by Tom Micks

l The Tulla Pipe band and local GAA heroes were front and centre at the Tulla Parade

Photos by Tom Micks

Photo by John O’Neill

Photo by John O’Neill

Photo by John O’Neill

l Students from BreakThrough Dance School perform in the parade; (below) Zoe Raqard, Rachel Scanlan and John Cashen, Quin, with Pip the dog; (centre) grand marshals Blackie O’Connell, Dr Máire Finn with Ennis Mayor, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy

Photo by Arthur Ellis

l (left) members of Ennis Taekwon-Do school in action; (right) Ennis’ fittest Family, the Ferns’ who were a popular addition to the parade; (above) Ennis Brass Band march towards the town centre from Ennis Courthouse; (far right) Seosamh O’Loughlin with Abbey (6)

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Photo by Arthur Ellis

l Eoghan O’Byrne cradles Gabriel Bianki as Shannon Jets Basketball Club take part in the Shannon parade; (above) Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan arrives in style on the bike of Mick Diviney; (right) Lisa Kelleher, Aleisha Noonan and Hayleigh McNamara in high spirits at the parade; (below left) Sarah Bridges and Ray Fahy, with Emma, Harper, Alex, Skyler and Kayleigh; (bottom left) members of Wolfe Tones GAA; (bottom centre) Millie, Leyla and Rachel Sherlock; (bottom right) Tony Walsh takes part in the parade

Photos by Joe Buckley

l There was craic agus cheoil galore at the Ennistymon parade on Monday afternoon

Photos by John Sheridan

Photo by John Sheridan

Photo by John Sheridan Burren Eye Photography

Burren Eye Photography

Burren Eye Photography

Photo by Brendan Cusack

Burren Eye Photography

l Jamie O’Dea from Lisdoonvarna at the White House during the Lisdoonvarna Parade

Photo by Brendan Cusack

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Sexton

Photo by James Downes

Revenues at operator of two Clare McDonalds operator surge to record €46m

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

REVENUES at McDonald’s franchise operator, Aarval which operates two outlets in Clare, increased by 16 percent from €40.27m to a record €46.93m in 2023. However, increased costs at Aaron Byrne’s and Valerie Byrne’s Aarval Ltd contributed to pre-tax profits dipping marginally from €1.645m to €1.635m.

Revenues at the Byrnes’ franchisee McDonalds business which is the largest in the West and Mid-West have grown exponentially in recent years and the 2023 revenues of €46.93m are a fourfold increase on pre-Covid 19 revenues of €11.7m in 2019.

Numbers employed by the Byrne husband and wife team in 2019 totalled 245 and by the end of 2023 had increased to 937.

Aarval initially operated a McDonald’s outlet in Gal-

way’s Shop Street, along with two other outlets in Galway city at Westside Shopping Centre and the Headford Rd, Retail Park.

In December 2020, the Byrnes expanded their Aarval business when acquiring four McDonalds restaurants in Limerick at Cruises Street in the city centre; at Jetland shopping centre, Caherdavin; at the Crescent Shopping Centre at Dooradoyle and at the Castletroy Shopping Centre at Castletroy, Limerick.

The couple further expanded their Aarval business when acquiring McDonalds outlets in Co Clare at Shannon and in Ennis in May 2021 while the Byrnes scaled back their Limerick operation in August 2023 with the closure of the McDonalds on Cruises Street.

The directors’ report for 2023 states that they are satisfied with the results for the year and look forward to growth in the company’s activities in the coming year.

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.

• General Operative Panels

• Ennis Municipal District

• Shannon Municipal District

• West Clare Municipal District (North) –Ennistymon

• West Clare MD (West) – Kilrush

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

Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 17th April 2025

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.

l €46M: Mcdonlds Ennis

the company as numbers employed increased by 89 from 848 to 937 with staff costs rising from €13.42m to €15m.

The pre-tax profit for 2023 takes account of non-cash depreciation charges of €1.45m, non-cash amortisation costs of €459,459 and interest costs of €241,547.

2023 was another year for expansion for

Profits were also hit by a loss of €491,240 on the disposal of intangible assets.

The company recorded net cash of €5m generated from

operating activities in 2023 which compared to €3.11m under that heading in 2022.

At the end of December 2023, the company’s accumulated profits totalled €8.48m while its cash funds more than doubled from €2.38m to €5.1m.

Pay to directors increased in 2023 from €259,808 to €271,612 made up of €199,612 in emoluments and €72,000 in pension contributions.

Mr Byrne is also a director of McDonald’s Marketing Company of Ireland Ltd and in 2023, the company provided marketing services to Aarval totalling €1.9m on an arm’s length basis.

Recently, the Irish arm of McDonalds has secured planning permission for two new drive-thru restaurants in Mullingar in Co Westmeath and Waterford retail park at Butterstown, Co Waterford.

As part of its continuing Irish expansion, McDonalds also has additional planning applications for new drive-thru restaurants currently before planning authorities for sites in New Ross, Co Wexford, Thurles in Co Tipperary and Carrigaline in Co Cork. The company is also planning a revamp of its flagship Irish outlet at O’Connell Street in Dublin which first opened in 1979. All of McDonalds restaurants here are operated by franchisees.

The power of organisational culture in driving business success

Organisational culture is the backbone of any successful business. It defines the environment in which employees work, influences decision-making, and shapes how a company is perceived internally and externally. A strong, positive culture fosters innovation, collaboration, and efficiency, while a weak or toxic culture can lead to disengagement, high turnover, and business stagnation.

To truly understand the impact of organisational culture, we must examine both its visible and invisible elements, the role of leadership in shaping it, the significance of policies, and the importance of employee training.

The Visible and Invisible Elements of Organisational Culture

Organisational culture is reflected in both tangible and intangible aspects of a company. The visible elements are what people can see and experience directly, while the invisible elements define how the company operates at its core.

Visible Elements of Culture

These include physical aspects and branding that create a perception of the company’s values and identity:

lLogo and Branding: Company’s logo, colour schemes, and overall branding represent its identity and values. A professional, modern, and vibrant brand reflects a forward-thinking, dynamic culture.

lOffice Setup and Seating Arrangements: Open workspaces encourage collaboration, while private offices may indicate a culture focused on hierarchy and individual contributions. The way seating is arranged influences communication and teamwork.

lDress Code: Whether formal, business casual, or relaxed, dress codes reflect workplace expectations and the level of formality within the culture.

lEmployee Perks and Facilities: Availability of recreational areas, wellness programs, cafeterias, and breakout zones signals how much the company values employee well-being and engagement.

Invisible Elements of Culture

Beyond the physical environment, the real essence of culture lies in the organization’s values, policies, and leadership approach:

lPolicies and Procedures: The way a company structures its policies on leave, remote work, performance reviews, and promotions speaks volumes about its core beliefs.

lLeadership Approach: How leaders interact with employees, make decisions, and communicate expectations deeply influences workplace culture.

lWork Ethic and Expectations: A culture of innovation and continuous learning differs significantly from one driven by strict hierarchy and rigid processes.

lCollaboration and Teamwork: Whether the company fosters open communication and teamwork or promotes individual performance affects employee engagement.

The Role of Leadership in Creating a Positive Culture Leaders are the architects of organisational culture. Their actions, words, and decisions set the tone for the entire workforce. Effective leaders cultivate a culture that is not only productive but also inclusive, ethical, and in-

spiring.

Leaders as Catalysts for Change Leaders must act as catalysts for positive cultural transformation by:

lLeading by Example: Employees emulate leadership behavior. If leaders demonstrate respect, transparency, and accountability, these values will become embedded in the company culture.

lEncouraging Open Communication: A culture of trust and transparency thrives when leaders actively listen to employees, seek feedback, and communicate openly.

lRecognizing and Rewarding Excellence: Acknowledging achievements reinforces the behaviors and attitudes that align with the company’s cultural values.

lEmphasizing Purpose and Vision: Leaders must consistently communicate the company’s mission and values, ensuring employees understand and align with them.

lFacilitating Change with Sensitivity: Cultural shifts can face resistance. Leaders should introduce change gradually, addressing concerns and ensuring employees feel involved in the transformation process.

Building the Right Policies to Foster Culture

A company’s policies should not just be compliance-driven; they should reflect and nurture its organisational culture. Policies shape how employees experience the workplace, influence motivation, and set clear expectations.

Key Policies That Support Culture:

-Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Policies: A strong culture embraces diversity and ensures equal opportunities for all employees. DEI policies should be proactive, not just reactive.

-Workplace Safety and Harassment Policies: A culture that prioritizes employee well-being creates a sense of security and belonging.

-Work-Life Balance Policies: Flexibility in work arrangements, paid leaves, and mental health support reflect a culture that values employees beyond their productivity.

-Performance and Growth Policies: Clear guidelines on promotions, appraisals, and career progression show employees that growth is based on merit and fairness.

-Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Policies: -Encouraging ethical business practices and sustainability initiatives strengthens an organization’s social

commitment.

The Role of Employee Training in Culture Setting

Culture is not just something employees inherit; it is something they learn, experience, and contribute to. Structured training programs are essential to ensuring employees understand and embody the organisational culture. We have witnessed this, while we custom design and execute training programs for many of our clients.

Induction Training for Newcomers

A well-structured onboarding program is crucial for setting the right tone from day one. Induction training should: -Introduce company values, mission, and expectations.

-Provide clarity on policies, workplace norms, and ethical standards.

-Facilitate interactions with senior leadership to instil a sense of belonging.

-Offer mentorship or buddy programs to ease the transition into the company’s culture.

Ongoing Training and Development

Even long-term employees need continuous learning to stay aligned with evolving cultural values. Organizations should invest in:

-Leadership training to ensure managers cultivate the right culture.

-DEI workshops to reinforce inclusivity.

-Ethics and compliance training to maintain integrity.

-Soft skills and behavioural training to enhance collaboration and communication.

Creating a Safe, Unbiased, and Inclusive Workplace

A thriving organisational culture prioritizes safety, equality, and diversity. Businesses that focus on creating a psychologically safe environment see higher engagement, innovation, and retention.

Steps to Building a Safe and Inclusive Culture

-Encourage Open Dialogue: Employees should feel safe to voice their opinions, report issues, and share feedback without fear of retaliation.

-Zero-Tolerance for Discrimination and Harassment: Clear policies and swift action against any form of bias or harassment set a strong precedent.

-Equal Growth Opportunities: Promotions and rewards should be merit-based and free from favouritism.

-Diverse Representation in Leadership: Having leaders from different backgrounds fosters an inclusive culture and inspires employees.

-Flexible Work Policies: Accommodating different needs, such as remote work, parental leave, and disability support, enhances inclusivity.

Conclusion

Organisational culture is not just a buzzword, it is a fundamental driver of business success. Companies with strong, positive cultures attract top talent, retain employees, and outperform competitors. Culture is reflected in both visible and invisible elements. Leadership style, policies and training approach plays a pivotal role in shaping and sustaining culture, it also ensures that every member of the organization understands and aligns with the company’s ethos.

Ultimately, a strong culture creates a workplace where employees feel valued, motivated, and empowered, leading to higher productivity, innovation, and long-term business success.

Elaine Ryan & Associates Ltd (ERA Ltd) offers a comprehensive suite of HR and business consultancy services tailored to help organisations enhance their workplace culture. With over 25 years of experience in management and a strong background in HR, operations, and coaching, ERA Ltd provides hands-on support to businesses, ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively.

Key Benefits of Partnering with ERA Ltd:

lExpertise in Change Management and Leadership Coaching: ERA Ltd specializes in guiding organizations through transformative processes, ensuring seamless transitions and enhanced leadership capabilities.

lHolistic Business Approach: ERA Ltd adopts a holistic approach, integrating global best practices with local expertise to create impactful business strategies.

lFocus on Culture and People: By emphasising culture, people, and change, ERA Ltd helps businesses build a strong foundation for growth and employee satisfaction.

lCommitment to Excellence and Innovation: With a mission to inspire change and create meaningful impact, ERA Ltd is dedicated to delivering high-quality services that meet the evolving needs of businesses. By partnering with ERA Ltd, organisations can leverage these strengths to develop a robust organizational culture that attracts and retains top talent, fosters innovation, and drives business success. Whether you’re seeking to enhance employee engagement, improve operational efficiency, or navigate complex change management processes, ERA Ltd is poised to provide the expert guidance and support you need.

Take the First Step Towards a Thriving Organizational Culture Today!

Reach out to Elaine Ryan & Associates Ltd to explore how their tailored services can help your organization unlock its full potential and achieve lasting success.

PLAYER WATCH: Eoin Cleary (corner forward)

Minutes played: All Possessions: 10 (6/4)

Passes: 6 (3/3)

against: 1 (0/1)

Tackles: 5 (3/2)

Frees for: 1 (0/1)

Frees against: 1 (1/0)

MUNSTER U20 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP RD2

Tipperary 0-15 Clare 0-14

Venue: FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

TIPPERARY

Frees for: 8 (4/4)

Wides: 8 (1/7)

Spread of scorers: 10

Scores from play: 0-11

Top scorer: Daithí Hogan (0-3 1f)

Bookings: None

Own kickouts won: 14 from 23 (61%)

CLARE

Frees for: 8 (4/4)

Wides: 6 (3/3)

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 0-7

Top scorer: Seán Fennell (0-8 1TP, 1f)

Bookings: Conor Hill (52) Own kickouts won: 14 from 20 (70%)

REFEREE: Eoin Morrissey (Waterford)

'God help Limerick, we are coming for them'

THEY MAY be without a win in two outings but Clare’s U20 footballers are fully confident of progressing to phase two of the Munster championship.

Daithí Hogan’s last minute fisted point saw Tipperary defeat Clare in FBD Semple Stadium on Saturday, a week on from Waterford collecting their first win in the grade since 2021 at Clare’s expense in Doonbeg.

Clare return to championship action this Saturday (2pm) when they welcome Limerick to Miltown Malbay where a victory is essential for Clare to have any hope of advancing to phase two; they must also rely on Tipperary defeating Waterford and a preferential scoring difference.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Clare U20 manager Maurice Walsh was adamant they were going to produce a perfor-

Curtin lauds Clare comeback

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 3 ROUND 6

CLARE 2-22 LAOIS 1-21

Venue: Laois Hire O'Moore Park, Portlaoise

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 15 (6/9)

Wides: 7 (4/3)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 2-11

Top scorer: Emmet

McMahon (0-7 4f) & Aaron Griffin (1-4)

Bookings: Cillian Brennan (22),

Own kickouts won: 16 from 27 (59%)

LAOIS

Frees for: 8 (5/3)

Wides: 5 (2/3)

Spread of scorers: 9

Scores from play: 1-12

Top scorer: Mark Barry (0-8 3f)

Bookings: Josh Hogan (30), Pa Kirwin (63)

Own kickouts won: 18 from 31 (58%)

REFEREE: David Murnane (Cork)

TRAILING by six points to Laois at half time in Saturday’s Allianz National Football League sixth round, Clare knew it was “win or bust” and they duly delivered.

A 10-point turnaround saw Clare come back from five points down to win by four, their first away victory in Peter Keane’s tenure following defeats to Antrim and Sligo. The result means it all comes down to the final round to determine who will be promoted to Division 2 with Clare hosting league leaders Offaly on Sunday.

Clare coach Eoin Curtin said the second half display in their 2-22 1-21 win over Laois underlined what the Banner are capable of. “It was a super performance, the boys showed today what we know they are capable of, the energy, the pace, their handling, everything in that second half was as good as you could ask for”.

He was pleased with the

manner in which Clare displayed an attacking brand of football. “That is what we know is inside of them and that is the way we want to play, we want to play attacking football and drive at teams, they did it in spades in the second half”.

Having gone 1-1 0-1 ahead after four minutes, Clare found themselves four points behind by the twenty third minute and six by the halftime whistle following the concession of Ronan Coffey’s goal.

This second quarter fade was identified by Curtin as an area Clare must rectify, “That is something we definitely need to work on, while it is all smiles and laughs here we do know that we can’t go out of a game and not score for ten minutes at times, it happened in the first half and it happened in Sligo too, while it is all brilliant at the moment we do have things to work on”.

Energy that was lacking in

their previous round defeat to Sligo was there in abundance for the second half, Eoin maintained. “We were so disappointed with how we performed up in Sligo, we didn’t bring the energy that we know is in the team, when it came down to it at half-time today we knew this was it, it was win or bust, they went at it, everybody wanted the ball, we were fighting for the ball around the middle of the field and the subs, every one of them made an impact”.

With a return of 1-15 in the second half, the Miltown Malbay clubman said it underlined the spirit of the squad. “Our backs were to the wall, we fought really hard and showed great character and spirit, it was win or bust”. He added, “Momentum is huge in games, Brian (McNamara) was outstanding in midfield but Alan Sweeney won a kickout at one point which lifted everyone around him”.

Welcoming Ronan Lanigan

for his first appearance off the bench and Dermot Coughlan getting his first full half of football is a sign that the squad is getting stronger. “They are massive lads to get back into the squad, they have been chomping at the bit the last couple of weeks, I thought Dermot had a massive impact when he came on today and it’s super to have Ronan back and it adds competition for places to get onto the 26”. Sunday’s final round is must-win for Clare and even then they will be relying on scoring difference given that matters are so tight in Division 3. “We’re back home again, hopefully we can keep our wins coming in Cusack Park, it was really nice to get a win on the road, it’s been a while for Clare football”. “If we’re being realistic we’ve nothing achieved yet, we want to go up and we know we will have an almighty battle against Offaly next weekend."

mance against Limerick. “We played well last week but we got caught, we fell asleep and let in four goals, that didn’t happen today because I thought we played excellent... we’re going to drive on next week and God help Limerick because we’re coming for them”.

Walsh insists his panel have nothing to fear heading into the decisive round. “There is nothing for us to be afraid of, we’re bottom of the table but if we win next week and a nice scoreline will bring us through”.

The Éire Óg clubman added, “Both teams were as good as the other but we just didn’t get the break at the end of the day, they got a fabulous point to win the game, we had a chance just before that and we missed, I think if we got that then we’d have won the game, we live and learn”.

Possessions: 19 (10/9)

Passes: 17 (9/8)

Long Pass: 1 (0/1)

Short Pass: 16 (9/7)

Foot Pass: 2 (1/1) Hand Pass: 15 (8/7)

Shots: 1

Scores: 0-0 Wides: 1 (1/0) Dropped Short: 0

Turnovers for: 2 (1/1) Turnovers against: 0

Tackles: 5 (0/5) Frees for: 1 (0/1) Frees against: 0

l Brian Byrne battles with Alan Sweeney and Emmet McMahon to hold onto possession Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Seán Fennell in action for Clare Photo by Gerard O'Neill

PLAYER WATCH: Luke Pyne (wing back)

WINS FOR BRECKAN'S & CLONDEGAD

GARRY CUP

l Michael Cotter tries to block Oisin O’Loughlin’s shot Burren Eye Photography

CLARE QUALIFY FOR CAMOGIE LEAGUE FINAL

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

CLARE sealed their place in the Very camogie division 1 B league final with a game to spare when they comfortably accounted for Limerick this Saturday afternoon.

In the final they will face Antrim on March 29 and the same sides meet in the final round on Saturday next when Clare will have home advantage.

It’s likely that both teams will experiment next week as the focus will be on the final a week later, a game that will be played at Abbottstown in Dublin.

Clare had their latest win, their fourth in a row, sealed by the halfway mark when they led by thirteen points, 2-10 to 0-3.

Both goals came from El-

len Casey who found the net twice inside a minute, Áine O’Loughlin and Zi Yan Spillane providing the final pass on each occasion.

Corner forward Spillane sparkled throughout and she landed 0-6 in the opening half, adding two after the break before being replaced.

With a comfortable lead built up, Clare were able to rest a number of key players. They made eight changes during the course of the second half.

Limerick also gave game time to many of their panel as they continued their build up to the championship.

Incidentally, many of the players will be in opposition again next week as the counties meet in the opening round of the Munster under 23 championship.

The second half was just three minutes old when Clare stretched her lead to fifteen points as team captain struck for the side’s third goal.

To their credit, Limerick

Clare relegation confirmed

by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’s senior hurlers have been relegated from Division 1A of the Allianz National Hurling League.

Kilkenny’s 0-29 0-20 win over Limerick on Saturday evening confirmed that both Clare and Wexford will drop down to Division 1B of the National Hurling League for 2025. In their five outings to date, Clare have just one win and four losses, beating Limerick in TUS Gaelic Grounds while losing in Cusack Park to Kilkenny, Wexford and Cork plus an away defeat in Pearse Stadium to Galway.

2009 was the last year when Clare were relegated to the second tier of the National Hurling League, there have been different formats applied since then including the top tier getting split in two groups but it is fifteen since years since the county suffered relegation

from the top grade.

Reigning All-Ireland and league champions Clare have shown mixed form to date in 2025 but started their campaign under-strength and have not yet been able to pull from a full deck for any competitive fixture this year.

Brian Lohan’s side face Tipperary in the final round of the league on Saturday in FBD Semple Stadium, Liam Cahill’s men are already through to the final where they will be joined by the winner of Cork and Galway.

Although the Tipperary game may be perceived as a ‘dead-rubber’, the game-time could prove invaluable for players recovering from injury while management are still some bit off knowing what their strongest hand is for April 20th when the Munster championship begins and need to work towards finalising their strongest lineup.

NATIONAL CAMOGIE LEAGUE DIVISION 1B

CLARE 3-13 LIMERICK 1-10

Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg, Ennis Compiled by Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE Frees For: 12(7/5) Wides: 5(2/3)

Scores from play: 3-8

Spread of scorers: 7

Top scorer: Zi Yan Spillane (0-8 4f)

Bookings: None

Own puckouts won: 12 out of 17 (71%)

battled to the end and, indeed, enjoyed the better of the final quarter as far as the scoreboard was concerned as, in that period, they outscored Clare 1-5 to 0-1.

LIMERICK Frees For: 13 (6/7)

Wides: 6 (3/3)

Scores from play: 0-3

Spread of scorers: 4

Top scorer: Caoimhe Costello (1-7, all frees)

Bookings: None

Own puckouts won: 13 out of 21 (62%)

REFEREE: Mike Ryan (Tipperary)

Their goal came as the game drifted into injury time with team captain Caoimhe Costello bringing her tally for the afternoon to 1-7, all coming from frees.

Newmarket & Avenue meet in quarters

CLARE soccer's big two Newmarket Celtic and Avenue Utd have been drawn against each other in the quarter-finals of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup, writes Páraic McMahon Having met in the Maloney Hardware Premier Division last weekend where Newmarket Celtic recorded a 4-2 win over Avenue Utd in Roslevan, the clubs will once again be renewing rivalries but this time in the Clare Cup. The game will take place in McDonough Memorial Park in New-

market-on-Fergus in what is a repeat of the 2024 Cup final which Avenue won 4-3 on penalties.

Sunday sees the first quarter-final take place in what is the only other Premier Division clash of the last eight ties. Second place Tulla Utd have an away trip where they will meet Inch Crusaders who defeated Shannon Olympic on Sunday in Lees Rd where members of the Tulla management were among those in attendance.

Munster Junior

Cup quarter-finalists Bridge Utd will be heading to North Clare when they take on First Division outfit Moher Celtic. Fair Green Celtic will be looking to reach the semi-finals for the second time in their history and they will fancy their chances of taking down Shannon Olympic.

Ennis Carpets Clare Cup quarter-finals: Moher Celtic vs Bridge Utd A Fair Green Celtic vs Shannon Olympic Inch Crusaders vs Tulla Utd Newmarket Celtic A vs Avenue Utd A

Historic day for Ennis as Butler captains Munster

ENNIS RFC product Tony Butler had the honour of captaining Munster as lost out to an experienced Leicester Tigers at a rainy Welford Road on Friday night.

Butler, a native of Barefield,

becomes the first former Ennis RFC man to captain the province at this level. Thirteen academy players were included in the Munster line-up that lost out 42-19. He kicked two conversions on the night in-

cluding one from a tricky angle following Killaloe’s Ruadhan Quinn had a try disallowed during the game. A one-sided first half ended with Leicester 28-0 in front.

North Munster Cup win for Ennis U14s

RFC

Ennis RFC's U14s recorded an impressive come-from-behind home victory at the weekend against Limerick opposition.

Young Munster put pressure on Ennis early in the game and through particularly strong carries from their number eight, the Limerick City side led by to two converted tries in the early stages of the game.

Ennis needed to increase their intensity and were rewarded with tries from captain Robbie McMahon and Conn O'Farrell when they duly delivered. The score was 12 - 14 by halftime.

However, Young Munster were first to pounce in the second half, putting

the home side under pressure and bringing the score to 12 - 19.

Ennis were forced to dig deep again and raised their game to score from close range through Alex Labuhn, a try which was converted by Devin Heavey. With the sides locked at 19-19, the Ennis boys continued to press Young Munster until Robbie McMahon broke through to score the match’s winning try and win 26 - 19.

Additional Results:

U15 Boys Munster Development Plate: Waterpark 27 – 24 Ennis

U16 Girls Cup: Ennis 7 – 26 Clonakilty

U16 Boys North Munster Cup: Ennis 14 – 16 Garryowen

U18 Boys North Munster Cup: Ennis 17 – 47 Shannon

Fixtures:

U14 Girls Cup: Fethard & District v Ennis; Saturday 22 nd March; KO at 1pm in Fethard Town Park

U13 Boys North Munster Cup: Young Munsters v Ennis; Sunday 23 March; 11am in Derryknockane

U14 Boys North Munster Cup: Ennis v Newcastle West; Sunday 23rd March; 11am in Drumbiggle

U15 Boys North Munster Cup: Garryowen v Ennis; Sunday 23rd March; 11am in Garryowen

Senior Women’s Munster Open Cup: Ennis/Kilrush v Clonakilty; Sunday 23 March; 2pm in Kilrush

U18 Girls Cup: Clonakilty v Ennis; Sunday 23 March; 2:30pm in The Vale

l Conner Hegarty was in fine scoring form for Inagh/Kilnamona Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Michelle Powell, Muireann Scanlan, Abby Walsh, Clare Hehir, Ellen Casey and Zi Yan Spillane were prominent throughout for Clare

U14 Boys North Munster Cup:

Ennis RFC 26 – 19 Young Munster

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

RORY McIlroy clinched his second Players Championship title last weekend at TPC Sawgrass on Monday, overcoming a rollercoaster final round and a tense three-hole aggregate playoff against J. Spaun.

The Northern Irishman's resilience amid challenging conditions underscored his status as one of golf's elite.

Starting the final round four strokes behind overnight leader Spaun, McIlroy made an immediate statement. He birdied the first hole and followed up with an eagle on the par-five second, courtesy of a remarkable 230-yard approach shot that left him a ten-foot putt.

This surge brought him within

striking distance of the lead. However, the notorious Florida weather had its say. Strong winds, with gusts reaching up to 30 mph, made club selection and shot execution particularly challenging. McIlroy bogeyed the seventh but rebounded with a birdie on the eighth, showcasing his adaptability.

A birdie on the par-five 11th elevated him to 12-under, granting him a one-shot advantage over Spaun. Play was then suspended due to an approaching storm, leading to a four-hour delay.

Upon resumption, McIlroy extended his lead to three strokes after birdieing the 12th, while Spaun bogeyed the 11th. Yet, the final stretch proved tumultuous. McIlroy bogeyed the 14th, and Spaun's birdies on the 14th and 16th holes erased the deficit, leaving both tied at 12-under. Spaun narrowly

missed a 30-foot birdie putt on the 18th that would have secured him the title in regulation.

The playoff commenced on the par-five 16th. McIlroy capitalized on his length off the tee, securing a birdie, while Spaun managed par.

The pivotal moment arrived at the iconic par-three 17th. Spaun,

Golfing community mourns Creedon

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THE death took place at the weekend of Denis Creedon, Ennistymon Road, Lahinch, a very well known figure in golfing circles.

The Creedon family have a long connection with Lahinch Golf Club dating back to when Denis’s mother, Mrs Patty Creedon, became the club’s first catering manager in 1954. Mrs Creedon served the members faithfully for more than three decades and following her retirement, Denis took over the catering operations for a number of years.

Denis was a lifelong member of Lahinch Golf Club An accomplished golfer, he played in South of Ireland and National championships over many years and represented the club on numerous interclub teams, the highlight being a member of the Senior Cup team that won the Munster Championship in 1984 before narrowly losing the All-Ireland final to Bangor at Tramore.

In later years, he managed a number of interclub teams including Senior Cup, Barton Shield and JB Carr and was instrumental in setting up and overseeing the senior men’s weekly golf activities which continues to thrive and grow.

He also represented Lahinch in numerous friendship matches at home and overseas, more notably the annual Malone GC match and the MacKenzie gathering.

Denis gave of his time freely in the development of the club serving on nu-

merous committees over many decades including the Centenary Committee (1992) and the Greens committee for many years. His dedication and commitment to the club was recognised when he was elected Captain in 2005 and President in 2016.

EAST CLARE:

The ladies 9 hole re-entry competition resulted in victory for Noreen Doyle Catherine Murphy and Trish Nash with 121 points. In second place with 118 points were Geraldine Finnegan, Margaret MacNamara and Marie Donnellan. The 9 hole singles winner was Trish Nash with 23 points. The ladies weekend scramble was won by Brid Hayes, Noreen Doyle, and Helen Downey.with 62 points from Siobhan Shanahan, Margaret. Hoey and Marie Donnellan with 61points. The winners of the men’s open team scramble on St. Patricks Day were John G. Doyle,Brian Muldoon,John Carey and Alan O'Neill with 51 nett from Paul Hayes, Russell Trow, Dermot Hayes and Paul Elliot.with 53 nett. Last week’s ladies Wednesday competition was won by :Margaret.

Lynch, Mary Farrell and Mary Jo. Minogue from Evelyn O'Brien, Maureen Clune and Mary Collins. The senior men’s competition was won by Steve Symes, Eamon Goode and John Fielding.from Nick Obolewicz, Donal Fleming and Michael Heffernan.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Week 5 in the Johnson's Bar Spring Series Open Qualifier at Kilrush saw Tony McMahon (9) take the honours ahead of Michael F Ryan (5) with third spot filled by Sean Finnucane (16). All three scored 29 points.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: Last week’s ladies 18 hole singles was won by Ann Pyne Gallery (31) with 29 points. She had one to spare over Eileen Holly (41) with third place filled by Geraldine O’Rourke (29) who also scored 28 points one more that fourth placed Kathleen Pyne (33) with fifth spot filled by Della Burns (21) also with 27 points.

In the 8 hole singles the winner was Josephine Tone (21) with 22 points from Martina Corbett (21) with 17 points with Rose Enright (11) in third spot with 16 points. The senior ladies 11 hole scramble. Was won by Martina Corbett, Carmel Verling and Mary Gardiner from Bridie Keane, Maureen Moloney and Kathleen Pyne with third spot filled by Mary Glynn, Marie Dilleen and Margaret McEnery.

WOODSTOCK:

The ladies 18 hole stableford at Woodstock was won by Chaye Kelly (11) with 41 points from Imelda

Duffy (40) who had a similar score.

In the Spring league 9 hole scramble the first round winners were Chaye Kelly and Carmel O'Toole with 31.8. They were followed by Ramona Gleeson and Siobhan Maher with 34.1, Ruth Nihill and Joan Cullinan Coote with 37.4 with fourth spot filled by Anne Marie Russell and Edel O'Callaghan with 37.6.

The men’s singles competition over the Bank Holiday weekend was won by Matt Power (22) with 40 points. He had one to spare over Niall Reynolds (14) with Dickie Pyne (14), also with 39 points in third spot followed by Cathal Nagle (8) with 38 points. Winners in the 2s competition were Sean Crowe (6th hole), Ronan Horgan (11th hole), Rob Cantwell (7th hole), Henry Butler (14th hole) and Paul Sherlock (4th hole)

GORT GOLF CLUB:

In the men’s 18 hole singles at Gort at the weekend, sponsored by Ward and Burke, the category 1 winner was David Callanan (8) with 43 points. Category 2 was won by David Kennedy (14) with 41 points, category 3 by Michael Killeen (17) with 46 points and category 4 by Colin Stankard (25) with 45 points.

The ladies 13 hole champagne scramble on St Patricks Day was won by Jean Luc Bellevergue, Chris Fahy, Tracey Brennanm and Bernadette Burke with 79 points.

seemingly uncertain about his club selection in the swirling winds, overshot the green, finding water and resulting in a triple bogey. McIlroy, maintaining composure, found the green but three-putted for a bogey.

On the 18th, both players bogeyed, but McIlroy's earlier advantage secured him the victory.

Reflecting on the playoff, McIlroy admitted, "That was the most nerves I've felt in a long time."

He emphasized the significance of overcoming such challenges, stating that the experience would serve him well in future high-pressure situations.

This triumph marked McIlroy's 28th PGA Tour victory and 42nd worldwide.

The $4.5 million winner's purse propelled his career earnings to $99,709,062, surpassing Phil

Mickelson and placing him second only to Tiger Woods in PGA Tour earnings.

Notably, this was McIlroy's second win of the season, following his success at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in February. It's also the first time in his career that he's secured two PGA Tour victories before the Masters, the only major championship he has yet to win.

Is 2025 going to be the year that Rory has his most wins on tour, its surely heading that way. In my opinion this is Rory's best chance to win the green jacket at Augusta, with the form he is in so far this year it's surely now or never for him. It will only get tougher from here on for him to win it as the years fly by.

McMahon-owned Lissatouk Bailey prevails in Galway

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

COORACLARE OWNED Lissatouk Bailey took the spoils in the S8 350 Yards Sweepstake Final in Galway.

Friday night’s card featured the finals of both the Kilcolgan Castle Connacht Derby and the On Faya Kennels A2 Bitch Stake. As the traps rose for the €9000 to the winner Kilcolgan Castle Connacht Derby Magical Mag in the blue jacketed was first to emerge with Canya Stve on her inner and Bllymac Sorrel on her outer within a half a length of the leader as they made the long trek towards the opening bend.

At the bend the Pat Guilfoyle of Cloughjordan-owned and trained Magical Mag cornered in front by a length as Canya Steve railed well to enter the back straight in second. Racing past halfway Magical Mag was beginning to cast her spell over her rivals as she opened a four length advantage as Ballymac Sorrel took up second place but out front Magical Mag (Ballymac Cashout-Mystical Luna) was in complete control as she stayed on to the line and prove two and a half lengths too strong for Ballymac Sorrel in 30.18

The opening contest was an A5 graded 525 and from traps Mirable and Cloneyogan Sydney were away well towards the inner with One Inallout also close up. At the turn the Donal Duggan of Tulla-trained Clobeyogan Sydney with the benefit of the inside line shaded the issue before edging his lead to two lengths entering the back straight. Racing along the back the son of Droopys Sydney and Tiermana Rum extended his advantage to half a dozen lengths and at the line the Siobhan Gar-

raghy of Lahinch owned winner scored by five and a half lengths from One Inallout in 29.25. The final contest was an A4 graded affair and in the early strides Clonkelly Cat was prominent in the centre with Kiltymon Ninja also showing pace along the rails and as they rounded the opening bend it was the Maiden Voyage Syndicate owned Kiltymon Ninja that took an advantage of two lengths as Drombeg Marley moved into second place. Racing down the back Kiltymon Ninja (Good News-Kiltymon Pearl) led by a length and a half and from the third bend the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained dog began to draw clear as he scored by four lengths at the line in 29.31. Four first round heats of the No Backgraders A3 525 yards stake formed the spine of Saturday night’s card at Galway with the final of the upcoming Sweepstakes S8 Sprint Stakes also down for decision.

In the concluding heat of the No Backgraders A3 525 Stake, the Clare natives John Collins and Albert Long owned Brickhill Moana (Ballymac Bolger-Twentylittletoes) came from behind on the home bend to win going away at the line by four and a half lengths in 29.38.

In the S8 350 Yards Sweepstake Final, the James McMahon of Cooraclare owned Lissatouk Bailey came out on top of a dynamic battle with Peteles Prospect to launch a strong challenge down the wide outside and Lissatouk Bailey (Newhall Missile & Rathmeehan Cragg) ultimately prevailed by half a length at the line in 19.73.

l Rory McIlroy

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KEOGH (née Sheehy), Kathleen (Katie) Sixmilebridge

MURNANE, Mary Kilkishen

Fitzgerald, Edward (Ned) Cratloe

Mc KENNA, Donal Bunratty

Clancy, Jimmy (Jim) Ballyvaughan

Recent Deaths

Creedon, Denis Lahinch

Cullinan, Tony Toonagh, Fountain

Cullinan, Tony Doora

Brian O’Sullivan California, late of Shannon

Mac MAHON (née Gleeson), Oonagh Newmarket-on-Fergus

O’BRIEN, James (Rocky) Shannon

Torpey, Sean Miltown Malbay

WALDRON (née Roche), Joan Shannon

KIRBY COLLOPY, Kathleen Bunratty

KIRBY COLLOPY, Kathleen Quin

@realprintennis

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS PLANNING REFERENCE: P24-60400.

Development Description: the change of use of the existing guest and dwelling house to Medical Centre, with alterations to elevations requiring infilling of some external opes, and new fire escape, with accessible entrance and extended Carparking.

Location: Grovemount House, Cloonaveige, Ennistymon, Co. Clare.

Take notice that MMD Atlantic Ltd has lodged significant further information in respect of P24-60400.

This information and planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL SMITHSTOWN INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, SMITHSTOWN, SHANNON.

Take notice that Galvotech Ltd intends to apply for permission for development, the development will consist of the construction of an extension to main building and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application maybe 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 to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL RATHLAHEEN SOUTH, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS.

Take notice that David Gleeson intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted cubicle unit, silage slab and associated site works at the above address.

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

CLARE CO. COUNCIL BALLAGH, QUIN

Take notice that Conor Costello intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of an agricultural farm road, new cattle crush with holding yard and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS

DOONAGORE, DOOLIN, CO CLARE V95 A2T2.Planning Reference: P24/346; Permission to extend and renovate the existing dwelling, upgrade the existing septic tank with a wastewater treatment system & all other associated site & ancillary works. Take notice that Georgia Heard & Dermot O Brien have lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P24/346. 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, Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae and Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the Planning Authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MAIN ST., LISDOONVARNA, CO CLARE V95 X9C9.

Take notice that Shane Considine t/a Considine Networks Services Ltd. intend to apply for outline planning permission for the

demolition of the derelict building on site and the construction of 3 no. Townhouses in its place, connections to public services, improved entrance to public road & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLONLAHEEN, KILMALEY, CO CLARE. V95 D2XA. Take notice that Catherine Shannon and Donna Sheridan intend to apply for permission to construct an ancillary residential unit within the rear yard of the existing dwelling, for the enjoyment of the occupants of the main dwelling & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

CARROWKEEL, KILSHANNY, CO

CLARE V95 X2X4.

Take notice that Anne and Sean O Driscoll intend to apply for planning permission for the construction of a Sunroom onto the existing dwelling & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

CLOUNA SOUTH, ENNISTYMON, CO

CLARE V95 Y316

Take notice that Jess Wallnutt and Daire Pearson intend to apply for permission to partially demolish the outbuildings, extend and renovate the existing dwelling, install a wastewater treatment system and for retention permission for the mobile home on site for use as temporary accommodation during the construction works & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 61 GLENINAGH, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE V95 EC8C

Take notice that Vincent Talty intends to apply for planning permission to construct a first floor extension over the existing single storey area to the side of the dwelling & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL:

I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (ADPS, 085 7466211, www. adps.ie) intend to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of my client Tom Lillis . Permission to construct cubicle shed with slatted tank, loose area with crush and all associated site works. Demolition of part of existing cubicle shed & silage slab also required at Kilmacduane East , Cree, Kilrush, Co. Clare.The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority 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.

The Clare Echo Quiz

1. In what year was Mary Robinson elected President of Ireland?

2. Who was the first woman elected to the Dáil in 1918?

Countess Markievicz

Kathleen Clarke

Margaret Pearse

3. Mary Harney became the first female leader of an Irish political party when she was elected leader of what party in 1993?

Fianna Fáil

Progressive Democrats

Fine Gael

4. What year was the marriage bar lifted?

5. Chains or Change was the manifesto of what Irish women’s organisation?

Irish Women’s Liberation Movement

Irish Women’s Suffrage Society

Cumann na mBan

6. Of the fifteen cabinet ministers appointed this year, how many are women? 6 8 3

7. Which of these Irish political parties has the highest proportion of female TDs? Social Democrats

8. How many women contested the 2024 general election in Clare?

9. What civil rights leader was shot nine times in her home in 1981?

Bernadette Devlin

Nell McCafferty

Monica McWilliams

In what year did Betty Williams and Mairead Corrigan win the Nobel Peace Prize?

Women’s Liberation Movement

Spot the Difference

A float in Killaloe’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade featuring Donald Trump and Micheál Martin

Photo by David Markham

Quiz by Emily Ross

March Social Dancing Break

23rd - 28th March 2025