The Clare Echo 22/06/26

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Jun 31, 18, 2024 2026 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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ROSE RELAYS FOR LIFE... Way clear for 1,300 new homes in Ennis

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Rose of Clare, Meabh Holland checks her blood pressure at Relay for Life Clare held at the Fair Green in Ennis last weekend

Photo by John O’Neill

UP T0 1,300 new homes are to be developed in Ennis with the unlocking of lands in the county town.

Projects at Ashline and Claureen have been included in the first call of the new €1bn Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIFF). Over €10m is expected to be set aside for the Ennis developments which will also provide investment to essential infrastructure such as roads, water and drainage networks needed to accelerate housing delivery.

Lands will be unlocked at Claureen capable of delivering an approximate 600 homes directly with the potential to support a further 200 homes

indirectly. In Ashline, 300 residential units can be built by the unlocking of lands with the capacity to construct an additional 200 homes.

Clare TD Cathal Crowe (FF) described the announcement as “a huge step forward for housing development in Ennis and the hinterland. We talk continuously about the absolute necessity of supply in housing, but houses cannot be built without the underlying infrastructure first being put into the ground. By securing up to €30 million in combined indicative funding for the Ashline Spine Road and the Claureen Phase 2 Link Road, we are directly breaking the logjam.

This unlocks the potential for 1,300 much-needed homes”.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

News

Relive the action from Cumman na mBunscoil

RECORD-BREAKING RELAY FOR LIFE

P. 24

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by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

A RECORD number of people attended Relay For Life Clare in Ennis over the weekend, as thousands of people turned out to support cancer survivors in Clare while raising over €25,000.

Chair of the Clare Relay for Life Committee, Tara Donnellan says that the organisation “got amazing support from local businesses and are blown away by their generosity every year”.

“We had a record number of people there. On Saturday there was a constant stream of people walking the track and Sunday was a real family day so we were really pleased with the crowds there”, Tara explains.

The event in the Fair Green in Ennis benefitted from widespread community engagement as well as the support of local businesses

throughout the county. “We definitely got great engagement from the community. We had over 75 cancer survivors come and join us for the opening lap and the survivors’ afternoon tea afterwards. It’s great to see all those cancer survivors coming together and being able to share their stories and talk to people who’ve been through the same things they are going through”, Tara adds.

“We also had about 2,500 candle bags lit around the track Saturday evening. Each one of those candle bags were dedicated to someone who has been touched by cancer. So it was an amazing sight to see all the bags lit and to have engagement from the community and to make it personal to themselves by dedicating one of those candle bags”, Tara continues, highlighting the visual spectacle.

The Relay has become an annual event in the Ennis calendar and is supported by entertainment from a number of bands and musical groups in the town, something which Tara says adds to the spectacle of the event. “We had bands and entertainment all day, Saturday and Sunday, ranging from bands and kids music groups to dance groups. We had a ballet and

also Breakthrough Dance came out as well”.

Then we had singers and performers from the Community Games, face painting, and caricatures. Lastly on Sunday we had about 200 motorcycles come in and do a lap from various motorcycles groups in the area. They organised that themselves which was an amazing spectacle on the last day”, the Chair notes.

Donations for the Irish Cancer Society’s events are still being counted online, with over €25,000 raised online not counting the numerous card and cash donations on the day of the Relay. Tara says they expect this figure to go up significantly once all donations have been counted. Members of the public can still donate online until June 30th.

With this year’s Relay now complete, attention for Tara turns to planning for 2027. “We’ve set our dates for next year already, it’s the 19th and 20th of June. Next year is our 10th anniversary so we’re hoping to make a really big splash next year”.

“The community has already started putting our heads together with some ideas. We are always looking for volunteers if anyone wants to get involved”, she adds.

‘Significant announcement’ for Shannon promised by Minister Peter Burke

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON is set to receive a major jobs boost later this summer.

Hundreds of jobs are on the cards with a leading Irish-born company due to make “a significant announcement” in the coming weeks, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke (FG) told the Dáil on Wednesday.

Exact details on the industry, job count and exact location in Shannon are not yet known with the Shannon Campus viewed as the most likely location for such development.

Minister Burke told the Dáil that the Mid-West region was “uniquely positioned” for enterprise growth and confirmed that a major announcement was expected later this summer.

“There will be a very significant announcement during the summer by a leading Irish-born com-

pany in relation to Shannon. This will be a strong testament to the work of Government in providing key infrastructure and supporting a highly skilled workforce”.

He added that Government policy was focused on “unlocking the full economic potential of all regions”, highlighting Shannon Airport, Foynes Port and strong links with third-level institutions in the Mid-West.

Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) spoke on industrial development and employment opportunities in the Mid-West particularly the Shannon Free Zone when speaking in the Dáil which prompted the Minister’s response. He said the expected announcement would be a strong boost for the region.

O’Callaghans Mills native Cooney said the development would be a key step in strengthening the region as a counterbalance to Dublin’s economic concentration. “The overconcentration of development in Dublin is not just a Dublin issue, it

is a national planning challenge.

The Mid-West, and Shannon in particular, can and should act as a counterbalance, providing space, capacity and opportunity for sustainable economic growth”.

Deputy Cooney said Shannon has the infrastructure and capacity to support major investment.

“Shannon offers what Dublin increasingly cannot, including space for enterprise, aviation development, space for housing, and space within the planning system to move with speed and ambition. That is why it is ideally placed to support Ireland’s next phase of balanced regional development.

He stressed that the region must continue to be developed as a genuine alternative economic hub. “Balanced regional development cannot just be a policy aspiration. It has to be delivered in practice. Shannon has the assets, the talent and the ambition to play a central role in delivering that balance”..

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 18, 2026

News

St Anne's students raise enough funds to send three water tankers to Gaza

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

STUDENTS from St Anne’s School in Ennis have helped to raise over €780 and send three water tankers to Gaza.

As part of their Green Schools initiative where they are working towards obtaining the flag for Global Citizenship, the school has rowed behind Uisce for Gaza to help the people of Palestine.

St Anne’s have raised €780 to date which is enough to send three water trucks to Gaza. The school has already obtained Green Flags in Litter and Waste, Energy, Water, Travel and Biodiversity.

On Wednesday, arts teacher Deirdre Flynn organised a painting session where attendees used three techniques, wet on wet, wet on dry and dry on dry to paint their version of The Cliffs of Moher.

The event was held as a fundraiser for Uisce for Gaza initiative and formed part of their Green Schools initiative.

Deirdre explained that the Cliffs were chosen “because it is home and it is about belonging, we are working on our flag for Global Citizenship

lART FOR GAZA: Deirdre Flynn at her paint session on Wednesday

and when you’re out at the Cliffs of Moher looking out towards the world, it does the soul good”.

Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) noted familiar faces behind the paintbrushes, “some of ye have been fighting cause for

Palestine all our lives”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Ennis native Deirdre explained that their painting session was a way of keeping things light but also maintaining a focus on Palestine.

“With Palestine on the

minds of so many people, it is so prominent now but it has been going on for so long, finally there seems to be a shift more into the mainstream of people now becoming more aware”.

Already involved in the

‘Sip and Paint’ events in the county town, Deirdre felt this was another avenue to encourage more people to get involved.

Young people such as the St Anne’s students would put world leaders to shame with their understanding of social justice, Deirdre maintained.

Tonight is about positive action, something we could do as a community and to have our cares and concerns flagged within our community to say this really matters.

“When our wee ones seem to have a greater sense of justice, right and wrong, we need to take a pause on things but we can’t pause on this”.

Formerly part of the Resistance Choir in Dublin, Deirdre has regularly attended the Saturday marches showing solidarity with Palestine in Ennis town centre while she intends to bring her two children to the upcoming Children’s Walk for Gaza taking place in Dublin on July 4th. “Every little bit helps, we’re not sitting in the dredge of it so taking whatever action no matter how small even talking about it, then you realise quite often when you’re chat-

ting to people that it is also a concern of theirs, the passion and outrage comes then. We could so much more, I know the Government has recognised Palestine as a State but now with the FAI, over 96 percent of their fanbase are saying we shouldn’t be playing this game, art is politics, football is politics, it’s all politics, don’t tell me it’s not”.

She continued, “It is too big for us, we’ve elected people who we expect to show leadership, it is too much to bear so in an effort to alleviate we’re bringing positive action, I was part of the resistance choir when I was living in Dublin, I’m at this a long time but it is just worsening, you think at the time when you’re in it that we’re making an impression and something will give but they prove us wrong”.

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

West Clare €2m drugs haul accused secures bail

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A COUNTY Clare man charged in connection with an alleged €2m drugs seizure has secured bail in the High Court, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court, solicitor, Stiofán Fitzpatrick said that Odhran O’Brien (32) has secured bail and sought a lengthy adjournment to allow the DPP make directions in the case.

Mr O’Brien of C a h e r m u r p h y, Kilmihil, Co Clare has secured High Court bail after being refused bail at Ennis District Court last month.

In the case, Mr O’Brien is charged with having in his possession cannabis for the purpose of selling at Caher-

murphy, Kilmihil, Co Clare on May 8th last contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977.

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

At an unsuccessful bail hearing at Ennis District Court last month, Mr O’Brien told the court that he never knew that three pallets couriered to his grand-mother’s address in west Clare on May 8th contained an alleged €2m drugs consignment.

Mr O’Brien said: "I never knew what was on that pallet - it was my grand-mother’s address. I was told that it was car parts.”

During a contested bail hearing, Mr O’Brien told Judge

lBAILED: O'Brien secured bail at high court after being refused at Ennis disrict

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

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

He said: “Anything that I am asked to do I will do.” Referring to his family, Mr O’Brien said: “I am so sorry for them for what has happened.”

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

Det Garda King said that Gardai discovered three pallets located in a shed at the address and these were wrapped in plastic and subsequently found to contain 40 packets of suspect-

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Wind farms to deliver €4.36 million funding boost to Clare

by Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

CLARE wind farms will pay more than €4.36 million in rates to Clare County Council this year, enough to cover the council's entire local contribution towards road maintenance and improvement works across the county.

This is according to rates data compiled by Halpin's on behalf of Wind Energy Ireland (WEI), which found that wind farms will contribute more than 8.7% of all commercial rates paid in Co Clare in 2026.

Commercial rates are a local property tax charged by county councils and city councils on commercial and industrial properties.

They help fund local services such as roads, fire services, public lighting, parks, planning, libraries and town development.

Nationally, wind farms will provide almost €75 million in commercial rates to county councils across Ireland and in nine counties payments from wind farms will make up

more than 10 per cent of their entire commercial rates income.

David Halpin, whose company Halpin’s compiled the data for Wind Energy Ireland, said: “'The contribution of the wind sector to local councils cannot be understated.

Outside of major urban areas, wind projects are often the largest single contributors to their County.'”

Wind farms also support local projects and community groups via their community benefit funds.

In 2024, the last full year reported, Clare wind farms contributed over €232,000 to various projects in their locality.

Beyond contributing to a significant portion of local authority budgets and community benefit funds, wind farms are also supporting Irish electricity consumers. Research published last year by Baringa demonstrates that since 2000, renewable electricity has – conservatively – saved consumers nearly €1 billion in their electricity

bills.

Noel Cunniffe, CEO of Wind Energy Ireland, said: "Every wind turbine generating electricity helps reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels while bringing investment and long-term economic benefits to local communities.

Irish made energy also helps insulate businesses from global economic shocks, inflation and secures existing jobs. “ "Here in Clare, wind energy will provide almost 9 per cent of all commercial rates paid in 2026. That means the council's entire locally-funded contribution to road maintenance and improvement works could be backed by wind.

This shows the real benefits that renewable energy is bringing to rural Ireland and to counties like Clare."

In April, when wind energy made up almost 40 per cent of the country’s electricity supply, the wholesale electricity price on the windiest day was almost half the price on the days when we were forced

to rely on imported fossil fuels.

Noel Cunniffe added: "A report from the ESRI in April confirmed that Ireland has the highest electricity prices in Europe.

But it also made clear the reason for this is our continued dependency on imported gas. Countries which, since the previous fossil fuel crisis caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have moved to renewables the fastest have seen their prices fall the most.

“The best way to bring bills down is to generate more affordable, clean energy here at home from renewable sources like wind and solar, while making sure counties like Clare continue to benefit from the investment and economic activity that renewable energy projects bring."

Co Clare currently has the capacity to generate 274 MW of wind energy, representing 4.3 per cent of Ireland's total wind generation capacity.

First ever Ladies Cricket Premier League of Ireland

CLARE HURRICANES Cricket Team in association with Clare Sports Partnership organised the first ever Ladies Cricket Premier League of Ireland on 6th June 2026 (Sponsored by Ashline Motor Services) at John O’Sullivan Park, Ennis.

From 5 different teams, Gaelic Blaze won the championship and raised the first ever LPL trophy of Europe. Clare Hurricanes organised the Auction for LPL season 1 on 29th April 2026 in West County Hotel, Ennis, and 5 Captains and Mentors owned different players through Auction for their respective teams.

From then, all players have got training from their mentors for the tournament. While Gaelic Blaze (sponsored by B & B Nursing Ltd) won the first championship and Wicket Warriors (sponsored

by Royal Spice Land) bagged the runner up trophy, all other teams -Mighty Maidens (sponsored by Banaltra Healthcare Recruiters Ltd), Empress X1 (sponsored by Hari Taxi), and Shamrock Strikers (sponsored by Ashline Motor services)- did the best and challenged all the teams in a good fighting spirit.

Junior Minister ‘Timmy Dooley’, Sports Development Officer ‘Mary Taylor’, and Munster Cricket Representative ‘Hugh Harvey-Kelly’ were the specials guests for the award ceremony (at 5 pm on 6th June).

Specials guests presented Championship trophies to winning teams and many individual premium awards to the players who showed excellence in the tournament.

Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Lands to be unlocked in Ennis for development of 1300 homes

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

TWO MAJOR ENNIS housing projects have been approved under the Government’s new €1bn Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund (HIFF).

Lands will be unlocked in the county town for the development of up to 1,300 homes as a result of the funding approval.

Projects at Ashline and Claureen have been included in the first call of the new fund which is managed through the Housing Activation Office and provides investment in essential infrastructure such as roads, water and drainage networks needed to accelerate housing delivery.

As part of the Ashline project, a spine road and public realm upgrades will be delivered including improved pedestrian access and enhanced pick-up and drop-off facilities at Ennis National School.

The project will directly unlock lands for approximately 300 residential units, with the potential to support a further 200 homes

'FUTURE GROWTH': Minister Dooley stresses the importance of propsed housing projects in the county

indirectly.

Phase two of the Claureen Link Road project will provide a key transport connection linking the Lahinch Road to the junction of the Drehidnagower and Drumcliffe roads.

The project follows on from the proposed LIHAF-funded Phase 1 and will unlock lands capable of delivering approximately 600 homes directly, with the potential to support a further 200 homes indirectly.

Together, the two projects have the potential to support the delivery of up to 1,300 homes and will be complemented by invest-

ment from Uisce Éireann and ESB Networks, including upgrades to water services infrastructure and the local 110kV substation.

Junior Minister, Timmy Dooley (FF) stated, “This is a significant investment in the future growth of Ennis and County Clare. These projects will provide the infrastructure needed to support the delivery of up to 1,300 new homes for individuals, couples and families."

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Clare councillor leads 'very personal' campaign after partner's shock heart attack aged 29

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

A CLARE cllr has said that her partner’s shock heart attack at just 29 has reinforced her commitment to raising awareness surrounding cardiovascular disease in Ireland.

Cllr. Rachel Hartigan’s (FF) partner Ben Sweeney recently returned to work following a successful quadruple bypass and recovery. The Shannon representative recently called on Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill TD (FF) to “urgently publish the National Cardiovascular Strategy”.

The cllr says that she was pleased to receive a response from the Minister’s office, and had been in touch with MacNeill personally outside of the correspondence. “I welcome the commitment to developing a new national cardiovascular plan.

Obviously the huge news that came down only very recently was the national review of special specialist cardiac services so it's really about making sure we get the implementation piece right on that.

There is progress happening on it all the time which is great to see”, Hartigan outlined.

The Fianna Fáil representative still found that all of her concerns were not fully answered in the letter she received, however. “As we know

cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of deaths in the country. I think it's almost 10,000 lives every year lost to the disease. We know that the demand for those services are continuing to grow all the time. And so while the strategies and the reviews are important, what people ultimately want to see and what I ultimately want to see is action and improvement on the ground and that comes through things like publishing the national plan”, explained Hartigan.

In a post on social media, the cllr’s partner Ben Sweeney revealed that “a heart attack during a casual game of soccer led to the discovery that I have severe familial hypercholesterolemia and would - at the age of 29 - need an urgent quadruple bypass”.

“Very luckily, some veins around my heart performed what’s called ‘collateral circulation’ and acted as supplementary arteries during that time, preventing a much more significant heart attack. This was a naturally occurring stop-gap but wasn’t a long term solution and I feel very fortunate that everything was caught before it was much worse!”, the parliamentary assistant to Cathal Crowe TD (FF) continued.

Speaking in the aftermath of the ordeal, Hartigan noted that “With-

HEART TO HEART: Cllr Hartigan and her partner Ben Sweeney are thrilled he is on the mend after extensive heart surgery

out a doubt before this happened, cardiovascular health was something I definitely cared about from a policy perspective but obviously since then it's become very personal”. In reflection, the cllr mentioned

that Ben had been unknowingly exhibiting cardiovascular symptoms including increased restlessness, chest pain and a decline in stamina.

“You always hope it's going to be nothing serious, but it also could

be the early warning sign of something more significant. I'm definitely grateful for the care that Ben received, but obviously this experience has reinforced my determination to continue working with bodies like the Irish Heart Foundation and advocating for greater awareness of cardiovascular health”, the cllr said.

The Shannon representative reiterated the need for greater awareness of the disease in Clare. “I’m hoping to raise it through the Healthy Clare working group that I’m a part of. I think we need to get better at educating people around risk factors and symptoms. Particularly if we can get progress going through schools or sports clubs kind of workplaces and community organisations. I think there's a real opportunity to bring information directly into communities through health awareness events, things like blood pressure checks, cholesterol screening initiatives and maybe even down the line partnerships with organisations such as the Irish Heart Foundation”, Hartigan added.

Continuing, the cllr remembered something that a cardiologist said to her during her partner’s recovery, “The best heart attack is the one that never happens”.

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Clare TD officially opens Shannon office

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE TD, Donna McGettigan (SF) held the official opening for her constituency office on Monday evening.

Nineteen months on from becoming a TD, Deputy McGettigan was surrounded by friends and supporters with Sinn Féin’s deputy Dáil leader and finance spokesperson, Pearse Doherty TD (SF) in attendance to cut the ribbon.

Donna said, “It was an honour to have Pearse Doherty officially open our office last night. It was a bigger honour to have those who helped get us to where we are now being in attendance. This would not have been possible only for a small but mighty team of people”.

A spokesperson for Sinn Féin stated that the party’s :constituency offices are rooted in local communities in towns and cities across

lSHANNON SMILES: TD Donna McGettigan (SF) was thrilled to open her office in Shannon

Ireland, offering vital support and services”.

Opening of Donna’s office was “an historic day following Donna’s election as the first ever Sinn Féin TD for Shannon.

Politics is about doing your best to make a positive difference in people’s lives, and that is what Sinn Féin do

every single day”.

Though this week marked the official opening, Deputy McGettigan and her team have been working out of the constituency office in Shannon since the middle of last May.

Ennis councillors predict CBS primary school to produce next Elon Musk

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

SIXTH CLASS students from CBS Primary in Ennis have the potential to become the next Elon Musk, elected members of the Ennis Municipal District have said.

Not alone were Mariia Hurina, Lucas O’Callaghan, Ericson Achoral, Cullain Leyden, Rayan Oukbil, Antos Rog and Hasan Jahanjir the first Clare students to take part in a robotics world championship in the United States of America but they returned with silverware, winning the Build Award.

A place in the VEX Robotics World Championship was secured after they picked up the Excellence Award at the All-Ireland VEX Robotics competition.

Last year was CBS’ first time reaching the national final, the school has been engaged with VEX Robotics as part of their robotics and coding programme for the past three years.

To compete against the best in the world and in the absence of financial support from the Department of Education, a fundraising campaign was launched and the sum of €25,000 was met with elected members of the Ennis MD and local businesses rowing in to get the primary school

lWORLD CLASS: Sixth class CBS students took part in the robotics world championship

students on the plane to St. Louis, Missouri for their four-day trip.

Students sold Toy Show goodie bags in CBS Primary to assist in the campaign.

For what was Cllr Mary Howard’s (FG) final meeting as Mayor of the Ennis MD, she organised for the successful students to brief elected members and the executive on their memorable trip to Missouri.

She told them they were “wonderful ambassadors” for the town.

Digital literacy teacher, Donna Lyttle played a central role in the success of the students with sixth class teacher Colm Davoren from

Carron an encouraging figure throughout.

Huey was the first robot they made, the default hero bot and he was used in regional competitions. Students admitted that they later realised Huey was “not as efficient” as he needed to be which led to them building the 180 Mech.

Praising the “great achievement,” Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) outlined, “it is not everyone that can say they are representing the country. We possibly have the next Elon Musk from Ireland right here”.

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Ennis News

Full steam ahead for Peadar with annual charity cycle

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

PEADAR WHITE is back on the bike this Friday for his annual static cycle in aid of Samaritans.

Born and reared at The Halfway House in Ennis, Peadar is well known in motoring circles but his impact in raising funds for Samaritans sees him frequently recognised all over the county town.

Having volunteered with Samaritans for fifteen years, Peadar decided in 2007 that he could offer even more help to the organisation by completing a fundraiser. “The first one we did we did four countries in four days, after that we did a Morris Minor to Monte Carlo and back, then we settled down and said we’d do a cycle in the square,” he recalled.

Co-operation of the Ennis Mu-

nicipal District in facilitating the cycle was acknowledged by Peadar.

The Height on O’Connell Street has been his regular posting but this will be his first time in the setting since the conclusion of the public realm works. “We did the top of Parnell Street last year and it was fabulous, they have given us a new spot now over beside the Monument so if it gets warm on the day we can go into the sprinkler,” he quipped.

Commencing at 9am, Friday’s cycle continues until 6pm with Peader on the bike for fifty minutes each hour. “They told me to get off the bike because at eighty two years of age they’ve told me to slow down. I enjoy doing it, the one thing I want this year is for someone to ring Samaritans and say ‘thanks, we’ve listened to you’ because there has been so many (deaths). I’m here in

lGOOD SAMARITAN: Peadar White volunteered for 15 years

photo by Páraic McMahon

The Halfway since 1944, we never heard of anyone dying by suicide, if we did it wasn’t known, Samaritans

is so established now that you can go into the Kilrush Rd to their office and arrange to speak to some-

body, the people you are speaking to will listen."

Last year, Peadar’s cycle raised over €2,200 while over the course of the cycle the total figure brought in is in the region of €28,500. Samaritans volunteers will also be present this Friday for members of the public who may wish to speak to them privately.

Often involved in slagging and banter, he said there is great input from the public on the day. “The biggest laugh we had when people were out on the street walking, there was a group of Americans doing a walking tour two years ago, the Director of Samaritans said to me to tell them what we do, I did it in full flight, one of them asked a question and I said ‘by the way if President Trump rings we will listen to him’ and there was big jeers over that”.

Clare Crusaders cycle for service success

by Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

TWENTY TWO dedicated cyclists successfully completed the Clare Crusaders Tour 2026, a three-day charity cycle that covered an impressive 400 kilometres and raised vital funds for the services provided by Clare Crusaders Children's Clinic.

The cyclists, made up of members from Crusaders Cycling Club, Dolmen Cycling Club, and a number of individual supporters, travelled an average of 130

kilometres per day as they journeyed through several counties before returning home to Clare.

The three-day route included: · Day 1: Barefield to Cahir House Hotel · Day 2: Cahir to The Rose Hotel, Tralee · Day 3: Tralee to Barefield via the Shannon Ferry The event was a tremendous success, bringing together cyclists, volunteers, supporters, local communities and businesses in support of the life-changing work carried out by Clare

Crusaders Children's Clinic.

The challenge raised awareness and much-needed funds to support the wide range of therapies and services provided by Clare Crusaders, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language therapy, hydrotherapy and group therapy programmes for children with additional needs and their families.

Participants dedicated months of training and preparation to complete the demanding 400km route.

Their commitment and determination were matched

lFEELING WHEELIE GOOD: Clare Crusaders thrilled with the support received during the cycle Photo by Joe Buckley

by the generosity and encouragement received from supporters along the way.

Every kilometre cycled and every euro raised will help ensure that children attending Clare Crusaders can continue to access the therapies and supports they need to reach their full potential.

Clare Crusaders Children's Clinic would like to extend its sincere thanks to all cyclists, volunteers, sponsors, businesses and members of the public who contributed to the success of the event.

Raucous, 5-star musical hits Glór stage for one night only THEATRE juggernauts THISISPOPBABY and cabaret star Emer Dineen bring their heartfelt, raucous, five-star musical extravaganza 0800-CUPID to Co Clare this June.

Hailed as "unmissable” Dineen's genre-defying queer, countercultural opus that fizzes between performance and reality. This electrifying show charts a musical march into and back from, one young woman’s existential brink. Featuring a live band and a cast of theatrical mavericks, the show captures both the thrill and the quiet anxiety of being untethered in your twenties.

One night only at Glór, Ennis on Fri 26 June.

13

Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Mother-daughter East Clare man 'bombarded' victim over €42k loan sending 21 texts on Christmas Eve duo make artist waves in Scariff

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

CLARE ARTS Office, in conjunction with the Edna O’Brien Library in Scariff, is presenting ‘Generations’, an art exhibition by painter Deirdre Grimes, and her daughter Eibhlín, a ceramist, at the gallery at the Edna O’Brien Library, Scariff until July 4.

Deirdre Grimes, who holds an honours degree in Fine Art, creates expressive abstracts using acrylic and water to evoke the movement and energy of the ocean.

Her daughter Eibhlín, currently studying ceram-

ics, takes a contrasting yet complementary approach, combining strong hand-built forms with fluid, intuitive surface colour.

Though distinct in style and medium, their practices are connected through a shared sensitivity to material and process.

‘Generations’ highlights the dynamic between two artists working in close proximity, revealing how they influence and inspire one another while maintaining their own unique visual languages.

A 37-year old East Clare man bombarded his harassment victim with calls and messages looking for money over a four year period including texting the man 21 times in the early hours of Christmas Eve 2024, a court has heard.

In the case, Keith Quigley of Callaghy, Tuamgraney, Co. Clare has pleaded guilty to harassing Keith Hogan at Dromod, Bodyke, Co Clare on dates between September 14th 2024 and December 27th 2024, contrary to Section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997.

Arising from the hundreds of messages from Mr Quigley to Mr Hogan, Mr Hogan loaned Mr Quigley €42,000 after being put under pressure by Mr Quigley to do so, the court heard.

In evidence, Sgt Declan O’Keeffe told Judge Adrian Harris at Killaloe District Court sitting in Ennis that the money remains unpaid

by Mr Quigley.

In evidence, Sgt O’Keeffe said that Mr Quigley ‘bombarded’ Mr Hogan with calls

and messages looking for money during that time.

Sgt O’Keeffe said that Keith Hogan made 234 payments to Keith Quigley via Revolut between 2020 to 2024 and there were 159 transactions in all in 2024.

He said that Mr Quigley did return €3,307 to Mr Hogan in 26 Revolut transactions from 2020 to 2024.

Sgt O’Keeffe said that on September 14th 2024, he

advised Mr Hogan to stop communicating with Keith Quigley.

Sgt O’Keeffe said that there were 251 messages and calls from Mr Quigley to Mr Hogan from September 14th 2024 to October 13th 2024.

He said: “There were a further 272 contacts between November 8th 2024 and December 24th 2024 including 21 times on Christmas Eve starting at 1.27am and finish-

ing at 2.41am.

Mr Quigley did write a letter of apology to Mr Hogan.

In the letter, Mr Quigley said “I would like to apologise with the heaviest of hearts to Keith. It was not my intention to cause such harm to such a great friend".

14

Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

West Clare News

Kilmaley Hall set for refurbishment as community plans for future use

by Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

KILMALEY HALL, a long-standing community hub in one of County Clare’s largest parishes, is set for an overdue refurbishment that could secure the future of the facility for generations to come.

Built in the early 1980s, the hall has served as a central meeting place for the people of Kilmaley, Inch and Connolly for more than four decades.

It has hosted everything from school concerts and fitness classes to indoor sports, yoga sessions, public meetings and a wide range of

community events.

The facility also provides an important local service through the bring bank located in the hall’s car park, which is the only such recycling facility in the parish.

However, after years of heavy use, the building is now in need of significant investment to address general wear and tear, improve accessibility and modernise the facilities available tothe community.

Local residents are being invited to have their say on the future of the hall through a survey being organised by Kilmaley Meitheal Company Limited.

The survey is available through local shops and community outlets, as well as online, and is seeking suggestions on how the space could be improved and what activities or services people would like to see developed.

Chair of Kilmaley Meitheal Company Limited, James O'Loughlin, said community feedback would be central to shaping the project.

“Kilmaley Hall has played a hugely important role in the life of our parish for over 40 years.

This refurbishment is about ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of the community into the future.

2026 SUMMER

FESTIV AL at

VANDELEUR WALLED GARDEN FRIDAY 26TH - SUNDAY 28TH JUNE 2026 BRIAN KENNEDY | KILFENORA CÉILÍ BAND | BERNARD CASEY | BEEOLOGY | SOCIAL DANCING WITH PATRICK ROCHE

Brian Kennedy

Kilfenora Céilí Band

Bernard Casey

LEARN MORE OR BOOK ONLINE AT: www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie/summer-festival RING RECEPTION AT: +353 65 905 1760 Vandeleur Walled Garden & Visitor Centre, Kilrush, Co. Clare, V15 E735

The views and ideas of local people will be vital in helping us decide how the hall can best serve the next generation.”

The proposed upgrade is dependent on a successful application to the Community Centres Investment Fund (CCIF), operated by the Department of Rural and Community Development.

The scheme supports improvements to community facilities nationwide, including refurbishment works, accessibility upgrades and modernisation projects.

The project is also expected to benefit from support through the Mount Callan

OPERATION TRANSFORMATION: Kilmaley Hall needs a makeover after more than 40 years in the community

Wind Farm.

The community survey can be completed online

with submissions made by Monday, 20 July 2026.

Summer vibes bloom at stunning west Clare music festival venue

by Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

THE VIBRANT heart of west Clare will burst into colour and celebration once again as the Summer Festival at Vandeleur Walled Garden returns for its third and most exciting year yet, running from Friday June 26 to Sunday June 28, 2026.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the historic Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre, this three day festival promises an unforgettable blend of music, culture, family fun, and community spirit.

Festival organisers have unveiled a standout headline programme led by internationally acclaimed singer Brian Kennedy, fresh from his appearance on ‘Dancing with the Stars’.

Joining him are the legendary Kilfenora Céilí Band, returning by popular demand and beloved Kerry comedian Bernard Casey, whose sharp wit has captivated audiences across Ireland and beyond.

Local favourite Patrick Roche will bring his muchloved afternoon dancing session on Sunday, en-

PERFECT SPOT: Vandeleur Walled Garden will host the three day festival of music, culture and family fun

suring festivalgoers of all ages can step it out in style.

Younger visitors are in for a treat with the return of Poppy’s Beeology Show – a joyful mix of juggling, storytelling, puppetry, and science that celebrates the secret life of bees.

Adding to Saturday’s festivities, Kilrush Shamrocks will launch their new publication, ‘Lords and Masters: Celebrating Kilrush Shamrocks Historic Five in a Row, 1975– 1979’, written by Chris Dixon O’Mara, in the marquee on Saturday morning.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy daytime music from Southern Cross Music, while the everenter-

taining Travelling Tradesmen, blacksmith James O’Connor and woodworker Eoin Reardon, will demonstrate their remarkable craftsmanship on Saturday, courtesy of the Gifts of Vandeleur shop.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, a parkandride service will operate some of the evenings between Kilrush town centre and the festival.

All evening concerts are ticketed events. Early booking is strongly advised, as capacity is limited and demand is expected to be high.

For full details and ticket bookings, visit: www.vandeleurwalledgarden.ie

15

Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon News

Tails to wag this summer Shannon Airport sends in new Shannon dog park lucky winners worldwide

by Páraic McMahon

by Erika Sanger

CLARE’s first public dog park is on course to open in Shannon next month.

Fencing works have been completed at the site of the pilot public dog park at Illaunmanagh with the final construction aspects of the project nearing completion.

An opening next month is on the cards for what will be the county’s first dog park.

Elected members of the Shannon Municipal District all pooled funding from their General Municipal Allocation (GMA) with each councillor giving €5,000 each for the project.

Funding was also secured from the Department of Rural & Community Development under the Dog Control Support Initiative.

Speaking to The Clare

SHANNON Airport was delighted to welcome the grand prize winners of its biggest ever “Win Your Holiday Wishlist” giveaway, following an incredible response of over 70,000 entries from across Ireland.

The five-week competition saw 50 lucky entrants each win a pair of flights to destinations across Europe and the US, all departing from Shannon Airport.

All entries were also included in a Grand Prize draw, where four people won trips to bucket list destinations in the US. Three of those winners were at the airport today to pick up their prizes: Mairead Hyland from Sixmilebridge in Co. Clare,

paraic@clareecho.ie

news@clareecho.ie

lPUP-ULAR: Local pooch waits patiently for Shannon dog park to open Photo by Joe Buckley

Echo, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) who is the only Shannon Town based representative on the Council described it as “a great project”.

He said the new dog park has also enabled the opening of a gateway to St Senan’s RFC’s second pitch which will improve safety by pre-

venting people from parking on the road.

Both Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF) and Cllr James Ryan (SF) tabled motions before the Council and Shannon MD seeking the development of dog parks over the past year.

lHIGH FLYERS: (L–R): Ciara Smith, Marketing Assistant, The Shannon Airport Group; Triona Keane from Killimor, Co. Galway, winner of flights to San Francisco; Adel Tuite from Pallasgreen, Co. Limerick who has won flights to Orlando; Mairead Hyland from Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare who will take off to Nashville; Emma Croke, Assistant Brand Manager, The Shannon Airport Group

who will be heading to Nashville, Adel Tuite from Pallasgreen in Co. Limerick, who will be holidaying in Orlando and Triona Keane from Killimor, Co. Galway,

who has won flights to San Francisco.

A fourth grand prize winner, Lorraine Murtagh from Loughrea in Galway, will be trying her luck in Las Vegas.

Dublin man 'caught red-handed' over €4.2m cannabis Shannon haul refused bail

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A GARDA has alleged in court that a 40-year old Dublin man was caught ‘red handed’ by Gardaí in connection with a seizure of an estimated €4.2m of suspected cannabis on the outskirts of Shannon, Co Clare last month.

At Ennis District Court, Garda Eoin McCabe told Judge Adrian Harris that it will be alleged that James Lawlor of Killininny House, Firhouse, Dublin 24 was playing “a key role” in the transportation of the suspected drugs.

Garda McCabe said that Mr Lawlor was arrested on suspicion of engaging in the sale and supply of cannabis after Gardai stopped the van he was driving on the N19 at Smithstown on the outskirts of Shannon on Tuesday May 26th last.

Garda McCabe said that during the course of the Garda search of the van, Gardaí recovered a large pallet which contained vacuum packed sealed packs of suspected cannabis.

Garda McCabe said that the seizure involved 210kgs of sus-

lSEIZED: James Lawlor was stopped with an estimated €4.2m worth of cannabis in Smithstown, Shannon in May

pected cannabis with an estimated street value of €4.2m.

Garda McCabe said that the drugs have been sent away to Forensic Science Ireland (FSI) for analysis.

Objecting to bail for Mr Lawlor,

Garda McCabe alleged that Mr Lawlor “was essentially caught red handed and was the sole occupant of the van when stopped and searched”.

Garda McCabe said that evidence in the case will be that Mr Lawlor

picked up the pallet from a DHL depot at Smithstown, Shannon.

Garda McCabe said that there is the possibility of further charges being brought against Mr Lawlor which could result in a substantial sentence if Mr Lawlor is convicted.

Counsel for Mr Lawlor, Barry O’Farrell BL asked Garda McCabe if he was aware that Mr Lawlor was carrying a card at the time of arrest which confirmed that he has an insertable loop recorder to monitor his heart palpitations.

Garda McCabe said that he was not aware of this.

Seeking bail, Mr O’Farrell said that his client does not have any drug related previous convictions and “would be a good candidate for bail”.

Mr O’Farrell said that much of the garda objection to bail was speculation. Mr Lawlor was brought by prison service staff from Mountjoy prison to attend the bail hearing.

The seizure of the 210 kgs of suspected cannabis was made as a result of a joint operation conducted by the Garda National Drugs

and Organised Crime Bureau (GNDOCB), the Clare Divisional Drug Unit and Revenue’s Customs Service.

Mr Lawlor is charged with having cannabis at the N19, Smithstown, Shannon on May 26th for the purpose of selling or otherwise contrary to Section 15 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977.

Mr Lawlor is also charged with having in his possession cannabis at the same location on the same date contrary to Section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977.

In court last month, Garda McCabe said that Mr Lawlor made no reply when cautioned on the Section 3 Misuse of Drugs charge and replied ‘guilty as charged’ in reply to the Section 15 Misuse of Drugs charge.

Judge Harris refused bail and further remanded Mr Lawlor in custody to appear again at Ennis District Court on June 24th via video-link.

16

Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

North Clare News

Permission granted for two-storey school in Ennistymon

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

LIMERICK and Clare Education and Training Board has been granted planning permission for a new 2 storey school building in Ennistymon.

The project received representations from cllrs. Shane Talty (FF) and Bill Slattery (FG) during the planning process.

LCETB originally applied to Clare County Council in May last year, seeking permission for the “Construction of a new 2-storey school building incorporating 8 classrooms, general purpose room, library, offices, resource and learning rooms and associated ancillary accommodation”.

lEDUCATION PROJECT: A new two-storey school will be built in Ennistymon

Plans for internal paths, turning areas and 19 car parking spaces were also in-

cluded in the application received by the local authority.

The planning department

found a number of issues with the initial application, however and requested further information in relation to several aspects of the proposed development.

The council made reference to the Clare Development Plan which sets guidelines for the number of car-parking spaces that can be allocated to a school. As a result, Clare County Council recommended that LCETB issue new plans for an increased 31 parking spaces on site, in line with the proposed staff of 25 teachers and 4 ancillary staff.

The council also expressed concern over the proposed site entrance, which it felt would lead to traffic increases and delays at the junction of the L1050 local road and

N67 national road in the North Clare town.

The planning department also asked LCETB to provide further information in regards to “access to the proposed development by fire brigade personnel”, and the provision of details on water supply for firefighting.

A document answering Clare County Council’s concerns by Quilligan-Scally Architects addressed parking concerns by stating the current school had made a mistake in its initial application over teacher numbers and now wishes “to indicate that the school currently has 8 teaching staff which will expand to 11 teaching staff and 8 ancillary staff ”. This means that the 19 proposed car parking spaces could be

approved.

Fire safety concerns were addressed through a consultation with Council Fire Engineer Ger Fallon and amendments to the original site plan. Wider footpaths will now be built on site to allow easier access for fire tenders. Details of an improved water supply system have also been supplied to Clare County Council.

The project can now move beyond the planning process following Clare County Council’s decision to grant permission to the development.

'Magnificent' work in Doolin could be ruined if job not finished

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

“MAGNIFICENT WORK” has been undertaken in Doolin but is at risk of ‘being ruined’ by the failure to finish the job.

Pedestrian paths and public lighting have been upgraded and extended from Fisherstreet to Doolin Pier but the works did not include resurfacing of the road which has been met with criticism locally.

In a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) urged the local authority to commit to a full resurfacing along the stretch.

He also asked that it incorporate “appropriate speed control and traffic calming measures in recognition of the high volumes of pedestrian and vehicular traffic in Doolin.

This will ensure that the benefits of the pedestrian investment are fully realised and that safety for residents and visitors is enhanced”.

Acting senior engineer, Paddy Tiernan outlined that the works already completed in Doolin “will deliver significant benefits to both the local community and the many visitors to the area”.

Responding to the resurfacing request, he stated, “We acknowledge that the condition of the road

lFINISH THE JOB: Paths and lighting on Fisher Street have been upgraded but the road needs resurfacing to compliment the work

requires improvement; however, resurfacing works are not provided for under the current contract and are not included in the Road Works Programme for 2026.

In the interim, the Municipal District will take measures to ensure the road surface is made safe and serviceable, including carrying out temporary surface improvements in the near future. We will

also endeavour to secure the necessary funding to facilitate full resurfacing of the road including traffic calming measures at the earliest available opportunity”.

Praising the work undertaken, Cllr Garrihy lauded the standard of the “fantastic footpath” from Fisherstreet to the Pier. He noted that plans devised by consultants have been drafted since 2015 for the de-

livery of improvements in Doolin.

“The motion is asking for the road to be resurfaced to finish off an excellent piece of work. I appreciate the reply from Paddy on the condition of road but we see visitors trying to drive in the middle of the road to try avoid damaging their cars.

I welcome the reply and the intent to go secure additional funding to finish the road, the quality of the work done has been acknowledged, it is high quality and it is helping with parking and safety for pedestrians”.

For visitors in Doolin to be able to walk along the route has made it “a fantastic amenity,” Cllr Garrihy flagged. “We can’t have the road laughing at the fantastic work done with the footpath, we have to carry it through.

Please don’t allow something really obvious to ruin a magnificent piece of work. We have over 200,000 people every year going out to the Pier where private investors have put in multi-million euros worth of investment.

Please finish the job as soon as humanly possible and not to have it ruin the fantastic work by not finishing it off. If it was in Ennis or somewhere else (it would be done), it is at the coalface of our tourism

industry”.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) agreed that “huge work” had been done in Doolin. He recalled, “I nearly got killed on a stag party when walking back from Roadford on one occasion, it was a hazard to say the least, it has taken fifteen to twenty years to get it but it is a huge achievement.

We don’t want to leave what looks like insignificant piece of work detracting from the whole picture”.

Thursday, JUNE 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Gort & South Galway

17

Halal meat factory in debt €240k to South Galway farmer causes 'untold damage' countrywide

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has stated that the failure of Shannon based Halal meat operator, Asba Meats to pay over €300,000 to a group of farmers for deliveries of cattle and sheep has caused “untold damage” to the family life of those farmers.

At Ennis District Court on Thursday, Judge Adrian Harris made his comment after hearing that €308,897 remains outstanding to the 12 farmers from across the country.

At the outset, one south Galway farmer, Denis Heffernan of Loughcurra, Kinvara, Co Galway was owed €243,238 by Asba Meats.

Mr Moore told the court today that €144,156 has since been repaid to Mr Heffernan leaving €91,639 outstanding.

A number of the farmers impacted were in court today to hear that Asba Meats

Ltd has pleaded guilty to a number of summons in an unfair trading practices (UTP) prosecution brought by the Agri-Food Regulator concerning an initial amount owed of €576,386 to the farmers.

The animals were supplied to Asba Meats by the farmers on dates mainly across 2023 and 2024.

Solicitor Jonathan Moore of Fieldfisher Ireland LLP for the Agri-Food Regulator told the court today that some monies have been paid off by Asba Meats and the current amount outstanding is €308,987.

In information provided to the court, Mr Moore said that Fintan Keane, Ballyashee, Kilnamona, Co Clare was owed €119,614 initially and after payments of €57,166 is currently owed €59,662.

Mr Moore told the court “there are very serious concerns over the amount of

lASBA MEATS: The Halal meat operator has pleaded guilty to a number of unfair trading practices

money involved and the time it has taken for the company to address matters”.

Judge Harris said that the failure to pay the farmers by Asba Meats “has done untold damage to the family life of the farmers in terms of what they could and couldn’t af-

ford”.

Judge Harris said that the court has heard about the financial hardship endured by Asba Meats in recent years but the financial hardship endured by the farmers over the monies not paid “would be much greater as they don’t

enjoy millions of euro in revenues each year”.

Judge Harris said that he would not be finalising sentence today in order to allow the outstanding monies to be paid over to the farmers.

Judge Harris said his confidence in Asba Meats abiding by the payment plan has been dented by a payment plan put in place last year that resulted in only partial payment for the farmers.

Judge Harris said that the farmers have been waiting years to be paid and the repayment plan must be complied with it in full.

Solicitor for Asba Meats, Colum Doherty told the court that Asba Meats had strong relations with suppliers and customers but in 2023 when there was a four month period “where the Dept of Agriculture had issues and there was no kill and the company started to wobble at that stage”.

Mr Doherty said: “The main issue that took place was in 2024 when there was a serious cyber attack on the company and that is where matters came crashing down.”

Mr Doherty said: “Despite the challenges the underlying business continues to have substantial commercial potential and is now focused on returning to stable and sustained trading."

Mr Doherty said that a repayment plan has been agreed with the regulator with payments to be made over the next 18 months.

Speaking outside court after the case on Thursday, Mr Dolan expressed his disappointment with the proceedings in court.

He said: “When we ever go to a mart and buy animals we go into the office and pay that day."

Judge Harris adjourned the case to September 23rd.

Public drinking safety concerns on Galway LCSP agenda

by Páraic McMahon páraic@clareecho.ie

A NEW set of measures aimed at improving community safety in Galway has been discussed by the Galway County Local Community Safety Partnership (LCSP), including new bye-laws regulating alcohol consumption in public places and a major public consultation on safety concerns.

Members of the Partnership met behind closed doors last week at Galway Chamber in Commerce House where they reviewed progress on a number of initiatives under the development of the County Community Safety Plan.

A key issue discussed was the formal adoption of the Tuam Municipal District (MD) Control of Consumption and Possession of Alcohol in Public Places ByeLaws 2026, which will come into effect on 7 July.

The bye-laws regulate the

consumption and possession of alcohol in public areas across the Tuam MD and will be supported by measures including public information campaigns, signage and cooperation between An Garda Síochána, Community Wardens and local partners.

The Partnership said the aim is to improve safety in public spaces while ensuring that parks, streets and other shared amenities remain accessible and welcoming to communities.

Water safety was also highlighted as a priority, with members receiving a presentation on the risks associated with water-related incidents.

The Partnership was told that many incidents happen near shorelines and in familiar locations, with rivers and lakes posing particular risks.

It also highlighted that water emergencies are often time-critical and that greater awareness, prevention and early intervention can help

lSAFETY CONCERNS: The LCSP have discussed issues including public drinking and water safety in Galway

reduce the risk of serious incidents.

Meanwhile, a countywide online survey is ongoing through Galway County Council’s website at www. galway.ie, asking people about their experiences and views on safety in public spaces, online, on public

transport, in housing and in rural areas.

The survey forms part of wider public engagement on the County Community Safety Plan, with consultations already held in Ballinasloe, Tuam, Loughrea, An Cheathrú Rua, Oughterard and Oranmore.

Further meetings are planned for Clifden and the Islands.

LCSP Chair Cllr Andrew Reddington (FG) said community input will be central to developing a plan that reflects local issues and delivers practical actions to improve safety across County Galway.

“Those taking part are being asked to identify their main concerns and suggest ideas that could help improve safety in their own communities”.

LCSP Coordinator Marie Nicholson said, “We have already held public consultations with further events planned. We are also working with a range of groups, including older people, migrant communities and the Traveller Community, to ensure that a wide range of voices are represented in the Safety Plan.

The online survey has been an important part of this process, with feedback

coming in through social media, partner organisations and local networks.

We are encouraging more people, particularly young people and members of migrant communities, to take part and share their views.

The experiences and ideas of communities across Galway will help shape practical actions to improve safety and wellbeing throughout the county”.

18

Thursday, Jun 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Community Games

St Francis Credit Union is proud to support Clare Community Games.

065-682 8305

info@stfranciscu.ie

www.stfranciscu.ie

St Francis Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

Painted in the stars for Clare’s budding talents

St Francis Credit Union Community Games medal presentations took place on Tuesday evening, following hotly contested events in Art and Handwriting competitions which was hosted at St Joseph’s Secondary School, Tulla.

A large number of children from across the county took part with the winners progressing to the National Finals in Carlow in September.

l Presentations (above and left) of Boys & Girls handwriting; (below) Mikey Moloney,1st U12 handwriting and mother Michelle Moloney; (right) Aoise Glynn 4th U8 art Photos by Tom Micks

l Maurette Crowley with daughter Aoibheann, 2nd in the U12 handwriting competition and (below) Przemek and daughter, gold medalist Lena Durski

l The winners in the U12 handwriting with Mayor of Ennis Mary Howard (FG) and David Noble of St Francis Credit Union; (right) Cathal Gleeson, winner of the U8 art competition with his parents Seamus & Mary Teresa and sisters Evie and Chloe Photos by Tom Micks

l Irene O’Sullivan with Mother Cecelia O’Sullivan, president of Clare Community Games

l (left) Lucy Spain, 4th U14 art with parents Michelle & Brendan, and brother Gearoid; (top) Cecelia presents a medal and (above) Damien and Mary Coleman with son Fionn, third U18 boys art; (above right) Tommy Daly U14 art 4th with dad Alan Tom Micks

19

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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News

20

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, June 18, 2026

Columnists

Thought for the Week - Father’s Day: The Quiet Strength of Love Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY

F

ather’s Day arrives each year with cards, gifts, barbecues, familiar jokes about socks and ties, and well-meaning messages that say, “Relax Dad, you’ve earned it." But perhaps Father’s Day is inviting us into something much deeper. To remember. To heal. To forgive. Because fatherhood has never really been about presents.

Fatherhood has always been about presence. "Honor your father and your mother so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you." (Exodus 20:12). As we prepare for this heartfelt day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the lessons, love, and wisdom our fathers have shared with us. Because time quietly keeps moving. "There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." (Ecclesiastes 3:1) THE QUIET STRENGTH OF FATHERS A father is often the quiet strength in the background of our lives.

The steady voice saying, "You’ll be alright." The tired hands that kept working when nobody noticed.

The sacrifices made silently. Many fathers carry burdens they never

speak about. Many fathers love more deeply than words allow.

Many fathers spend their entire lives trying to give their children something better than they themselves received. "Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it." (Proverbs 22:6).

WHAT EVERY HUMAN HEART LONGS FOR There is an old Portuguese story about a father and son who became estranged. The son ran away.

After months of searching without success, the father placed an advertisement in a newspaper. It simply read, "Dear Paco, meet me in front of this newspaper office at noon on Saturday. All is forgiven. I love you. Your Father." On Saturday, over 800 men named Paco arrived.

Eight hundred people. Eight hundred hearts. Eight hundred souls longing to hear, "All is forgiven."

"I love you." Perhaps this story reminds us of something beautiful.

Underneath our achievements.

Underneath our failures. Underneath our pride. Many of us still carry the same longing. To know we matter. To know we are loved.

To know someone is waiting for us.

FOR THOSE WHO FIND FATHERS DAY DIFFICULT Father’s Day is beautiful. But sometimes it hurts. Some will celebrate with their fathers. Some will visit graves. Some will remember phone

calls never made. Some fathers themselves quietly carry grief. The child they lost. The relationship that broke. Today there is room for all of it. For joy. For gratitude. For sadness. For healing. For those carrying loss today. May love remind you that grief itself is evidence of how deeply you cared.

WHAT MY FATHER TAUGHT ME I am blessed and fortunate enough to still have my Dad, Ricey. When I think of him, I do not think about perfection. I think about consistency. Sacrifice. Patience. Strength.

Forgiveness. Love shown not only through words but through ordinary days repeated thousands of times. He showed up. Again.

And again. My Dad was never an anchor holding me back. Nor a sail carrying me where I needed to go.

He became something far greater.

A light. A guiding light whose love continues to show me the way.

WHAT FATHERHOOD TEACHES US As a father to Mia and Sophie, I have discovered something unexpected. Children do not simply teach us how to parent. They teach us how to love. "Love is patient, love is kind." (1 Corinthians 13:4).

Fatherhood is not about perfection. It never was. It is about showing up. Trying again. Apologising when necessary. Holding your family close. Choosing love

repeatedly.

TO EVERY FATHER READING THIS Thank you. Thank you for the sleepless nights. Thank you for carrying worries nobody saw.

Thank you for working when you were tired. Thank you for continuing when you felt inadequate.

Thank you for trying. Your love matters more than you know. Your presence matters more than you realise. Your children may forget many things. But they will never forget how you made them feel.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK As your thought for the week, do one thing you have been delaying.

Call your Dad. Say thank you.

Make peace. Say I love you. If your father has died, tell someone a story about him. If your relationship is broken, try to take one small step. If you are a father, hug your children a little longer. Be present. Because one day there will come a moment when we would give almost anything for one more conversation. One more hug. So

this week, choose love while there is still time. Because at the end of our lives, it will never be the things we own that matter most. It will always be the people we love.

Let me leave you with a special Father's Day prayer poem that I wrote for this special day - "Heavenly Father, Today we thank You for fathers. For grandfathers. For stepfathers. For godfathers. For mentors. For teachers. For all those who have loved us with a father’s heart. Bless the fathers who are exhausted. Comfort the fathers who grieve. Strengthen the fathers who feel they are failing. Bring peace where there is pain. Help fathers realise that their presence matters more than perfection. For those whose fathers now rest with You, may memory become blessing and grief become gentleness. For those carrying wounds from fatherhood, bring healing. For those longing to hear “I love you,” may they encounter Your love today. Help us all become more compassionate. More forgiving. More present.

More loving. Because the world does not simply need stronger fathers. It needs more loving ones.

We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen."

Olympian Naomi Carroll swaps Broadford locals spray paint roads in green jersey for graduation robe warning for drivers to 'slow down'

OLYMPIAN and Ireland hockey player, Naomi Carroll, swapped the green jersey for a graduation robe as she was conferred from University of Limerick this week.

The international hockey star, who has also played football and camogie for her native Clare, graduated with a Dioplóma Gairmiúil i gCeannaireacht Scoile (Professional Diploma in School Leadership) from UL’s Faculty of Education and Health Sciences, joining more than 1,200 students graduating at UL’s Summer Conferrings.

The graduation marks another milestone for the Cratloe woman who has enjoyed an illustrious sporting career, playing a pivotal role in the success of the Irish Naomi Carroll, pictured with her husband John and women’s hockey team who have son Peadar at UL Summer Conferring captured the nation’s hearts with appearances in European TournaI do.” ments, World Leagues, a World Cup and For Naomi, becoming a mother has the Olympic Games. been of the most rewarding experiences For Naomi, who teaches Maths and Irish of her life and one which has given her a at Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh, a sense of curi- new perspective on priorities, balance and osity has shaped her success both on and what success means. off the pitch.

“Life has changed completely – in the “Staying curious keeps you open to growth best possible way. Peadar has brought so and new opportunities. It is one of the rea- much joy into our lives. He has also taught sons I pursued further study at UL along- me to slow down and appreciate the small side elite sport and teaching, and it con- moments.” tinues to shape how I approach everything

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

ARTIFICIAL road markings have been installed in Broadford by residents concerned over persistent speeding and poor road surfacing in the East Clare village.

Two Broadford residents have taken to spraying yellow paint on roads in the village's main thoroughfare with messages such as 'slow down', 'ramp' and 'stop' in place of council-delivered infrastructure. Numerous potholes in the village were also circled in yellow spray paint.

Originally from Labasheeda, Elaine O’Connell lives on the village’s main street and says residents are at their wit’s end while Karen O’Connor, proprietor of the Country Store café, contacted The Clare Echo to say, “We are not getting any updates or news from the council.”

Broadford Development Association member Elaine says that while road surfacing issues may be harming local businesses, speed is the number one concern for people in Broadford.

“The main issue is speed”,

RESIDENTS CAN: Concerns locals spray the roads

she outlines. “I’ve an old woman up the road from me and she says that she’s holding her breath every time she has to go into the village, because she has to come off the footpath and walk in front of the cars”, Elaine explains.

The Broadford resident adds that she could go up and down the village’s main street seven or eight times a day and expresses concern for the village’s children, asking when will the council take action to reduce speed in the area.

“I know it was done in Mountshannon because somebody died and I’m wondering who's going to be the child from the 140 children in the local school that’s going to get hurt and change things

here”, she notes.

The delivery of an €8 million sewerage scheme to Broadford has been cited as the main reason why road works have not taken place.

The project was initially approved in December 2023 along with a similar scheme in Cooraclare. At the time of writing however, neither village has seen any significant progress on the project.

Responding to a claim by cllr. Alan O’Callaghan (FF) that the council did not want to look “red-faced” by resurfacing a road only to tear it up again, she states, “We know that Clare County Council are more than happy to tear up a road and then come back a month later and tear it up again. Why can’t ours be done?”

Elaine acknowledges that the village “can be a real rat run” between 7-9am in the morning due to traffic congestion which includes two secondary school buses something which she notes ironically makes the village safer as it slows traffic down.

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Thursday, June 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

GREEN CLARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY CLEAN IRELAND RECYCLING

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VISIT responsiblerecycling.ie

Dooley confirms €100k for new nature-based play space

By Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

A NEW nature-based play and learning space will be developed at John O'Sullivan Park, Lees Road, Ennis as Clare County Council wins a bid as a pilot location for new government funding.

The €100,000 funding, confirmed this morning by local Minister Timmy Dooley, will support the creation of a high-quality outdoor play environment designed to encourage children to connect with nature while promoting physical activity, learning and wellbeing.

Minister Dooley said the project represents an important investment in children's development and in one of Clare's most popular communi-

ty amenities.

"Lees Road is already a fantastic resource for families across Clare and this funding will allow Clare County Council to create an exciting new play and learning space that encourages children to explore, learn and play in a natural environment.

“Outdoor play is hugely important for children's physical health, confidence, creativity and social development.

It is particularly welcome that this project has been designed around children's needs and will be fully accessible to all children, including those with disabilities.”

The new facility will include a range of natural play features such as earthen mounds, timber bridges, balancing logs,

BACK TO NATURE: Minister Timmy Dooley (inset) prioritises outdoor play as 'hugely important' for children's health

climbing structures, slides integrated into the landscape and natural tunnels, providing opportunities for imag-

inative and self-directed play.

It will also incorporate biodiversity features including wildflower

planting, native trees, insect hotels and habitat areas, helping children to engage with and learn about the natural envi-

BROUGHT TO YOU BY CLEAN IRELAND RECYCLING

Keep 2026 NEVER PUT Fire Free BATTERIES, VAPES OR ELECTRONICS IN ANY BIN OR SKIP

VISIT responsiblerecycling.ie

ronment.

A dedicated outdoor learning circle with log seating will provide space for storytelling, school activities, community workshops and outdoor education programmes.

Minister Dooley congratulated Clare County Council on securing the funding through what was a competitive na-

tional process.

"This is a significant achievement for Clare County Council. Nine local authorities submitted applications and Clare's proposal was one of the two highest-scoring projects selected nationally. It is a strong endorsement of the vision for this facility and the positive impact it will have for local children and families.”

The funding is part of a new Government pilot initiative aimed at developing high-quality, inclusive nature-based play environments for children and young people.

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Thursday, Jun 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Business & Recruitment ADVERTORIAL

From product builder to team leader Renato’s journey at Ei Electronics

by Erika Sanger news@clareecho.ie

WHEN Renato Pecek joined Ei Electronics in April 2021, he wasn’t looking for a leadership role. Like many people considering a career in manufacturing, he was looking for a stable employer with a strong reputation and opportunities to build a future for himself and his family.

Today, just five years later, Renato is a Team Lead, has completed multiple professional qualifications with work and is undertaking a Level 8 Diploma in High Performance Leadership with the Technological University Dublin, supported by Ei Electronics.

For Renato, the decision to join the team at Ei Electronics was influenced by what he heard from others who worked there in the local community. “I always heard positive things about Ei Electronics.

People spoke highly about Ei, they spoke about the great work hours, growth opportunities, work-

life balance, and the holidays”.

Starting as an evening shift product builder, Renato quickly embraced the opportunities available to him. Within six months he had been promoted and further completed training in areas including Manual Handling and Health and

Safety. His commitment and willingness to learn eventually led to his promotion to Team Lead at the Company.

Looking back, Renato believes that the opportunities for development are one of the Company’s biggest strengths.

“There is a clear path for progression and development at Ei Electronics, the Company is ready to invest in the education and progression of their employees”.

Outside of work, Renato is a husband and a father. He says the flexibility and predictability of the work schedule at Ei Electronics played a vital role in helping him balance work and family responsibilities.

“As a father, it’s important to have the work-life balance, as it has helped me manage family life while continuing to develop my career”.

A POSITIVE AND SUPPORTIVE CULTURE For people considering a position at Ei Electronics, Renato believes one of the misconceptions is that previous experience is essential.

“Ei Electronics provides a great entry point into manufacturing.

There are opportunities for every single person in the Company. It’s a matter of being patient and being receptive when the time comes”.

His advice for prospective ap-

plicants is simple: “If your attitude right, and you show up every day, that’s it! You don’t have to be the best person in the room. If you are willing to learn, work hard, and be positive, opportunities will come”.

Renato’s story is one of many examples of how employees can grow and build long-term careers at Ei Electronics.

Ei Electronics is now hiring for both Day and Evening Shift Product Builders at their Shannon campus. Join a strong, reputable Irish employer known for innovation and quality in fire safety technology, offering excellent on-site facilities including a fully equipped gym, subsidised restaurant, and an active sports and social club.

If you are interested in a position at Ei Electronics as a Day or Evening shift Product Builder, scan the QR code below or send your application to careers@eielectronics.ie

Clare entrepreneur Luan journeys from waste to wonderful WHAT if the bottle in your recycling bin wasn’t waste at all, but the beginning of something new?

For County Clarebased creative Luan Vickery, that simple question became the foundation of Wild Atlantic Works, a business transforming discarded bottle glass into hand-

crafted jewellery and glass-accented artwork.

Across Clare, thousands of bottles are emptied and discarded every week. Whether it’s whiskey shared among friends or a wine bottle opened over dinner, for most people the story ends there. For Luan, it’s where the story begins. Not an empty bot-

Creative Writing Creative Writing at the at the

Libraries Award

Clare Library Service, with support from Creative Clare Library Service, with support from Creative Ireland, invites applications from experienced Ireland, invites applications from experienced creative writing facilitators across all genres to creative writing facilitators across all genres to deliver a six-workshop series starting September deliver a six-workshop series starting September 2026. This initiative aims to support inclusive, 2026. This initiative aims to support inclusive, community based creative practice, foster skills community based creative practice, foster skills and participation, and celebrate local voices. and participation, and celebrate local voices.

Grants of up to €1,200 are available for innovative, Grants of up to €1,200 are available for innovative, participatory proposals. participatory proposals.

•• Closing Closing Date: Date: 12 12 noon, noon, 30 30 June, June, 2026 2026 •• How to Apply: How to Apply: https://submit.link/51W https://submit.link/51W

Apply Now Apply Now

tle destined for the recycling bin but a beautiful material full of colour, character and possibility.

With a background in graphic design and video editing she has always been drawn to creative projects. Over the years she has turned her hand to everything from candle making and soap making to upcycling furniture, always looking for ways to give existing materials a new purpose. It was that same curiosity that led her to see potential in bottle glass. Drawn to its rich tones and the way it caught the light, she began wondering if they could become something more than waste.

What began as experimentation soon became a passion. Luan spent months learning how to cut, shape and heat the glass, testing different bottles, colours and techniques. Through trial and error, discarded whiskey, wine, gin and stout bottles gradually evolved into earrings, pendants and art.

The result is Wild Atlantic Works, a County Clare business built around reclaiming and reimagining bottle glass.

Collected locally from homes, businesses and Ennis Recycling Centre, where staff kindly set aside particular bottles.

The glass is carefully selected, cut and shaped and then under intense heat, sharp fragments of discarded glass soften and take on smooth, organic forms while retaining the distinctive

ning, but she hopes Wild Atlantic Works might encourage people to look at everyday materials a little differently.

For more information, visit wildatlanticworks. com or follow @wildatlanticworks_ on Instagram.

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.

• Executive Architectural Conservation Officer Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

• Senior Executive Librarian Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

• Executive Quantity Surveyor Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

colours of the original bottle. A green whiskey bottle might become a pendant and a piece of blue glass becomes a pair of earrings. What was once destined for disposal becomes something entirely new.

Alongside the jewellery collection, keen artist Luan has developed a range of original illustrations inspired by life along the Wild Atlantic Way. Each artwork is finished with handshaped pieces of glass, adding colour, depth and a direct connection to the materials at the heart of the business.

“Sustainability is something I care about and I want people to choose a piece because it’s beautiful, unique and meaningful. The fact that it was once a discarded bottle and has been given a new purpose makes it more special.”

Having already introduced her work to customers through local markets, the recent launch of the Wild Atlantic Works website means customers across Ireland can now discover the collection online. For Luan, the journey is still very much at the begin-

• Senior Resident Engineer (36 months) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

• Retained Part-Time Firefighter Panel (Kilrush) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

• I.S. Technical Support Officer Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 2nd July 2026

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

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

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

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

23

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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News

24

Thursday, Jun 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Cumann na mBunscoil

Cusack Park comes alive with Cumann na mBunscol THE Cumann na mBunscol an Chláir finals brought hundreds of young athletes, supporters and volunteers from schools across the county together for a festival of GAA at Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg last week.

With finals across multiple divisions, the Division 1 Girls Camogie final was won by Scoil Seanáin Naofa, Clonlara, who defeated Scoil na Mainistreach, Quin/Dangan, while the Division 1 Boys’ hurling final saw Barefield NS defeated by Gaelscoil Mhíchíl

RESULTS Div 5 Hurling Lissycasey v Boston/Tubber/ Ballyvaughan/Fanore/New Quay Winners Lissycasey Div 3 Hurling Ruan/Toonagh v Newmarket Winners Ruan Toonagh Div 5 Camogie Doora v Boston/Tubber/ New Quay Winners Doora Div 6 Camogie Bodyke/Tuamgraney v Ballynacally/ Caherea/Clondrinagh Winners Bodyke Tuamgraney Academy Camogie Tulla v Ballyea Winners Ballyea Div 1 Camogie Quin/Dangan V Clonlara Winner CLonlara AET Division 1 Hurling Barefield v Gaelscoil Mhichíl

Cíosóg Winners GMC Thursday 11th June 2026 Division 3 Camogie Broadford v Knockanean Winner Knockanean AET Division 2 Hurling Clarecastle v Clonmoney Winner Clonmoney Academy Hurling Cratloe v Clonmoney Winner Cratloe Division 4 Camogie Scariff v Cratloe Winner Scariff Division 2 Camogie Ennis National v Kilnamona Winner Kilnamona Division 4 Hurling Kilmaley v Stonehall/Ballycar Winner Stonehall/Ballycar Division 6 Hurling Coolmeen v Kilmihil Winner Kilmihil

l (top) Clonmoney players climb the steps to be presented with their Division 2 hurling trophy; (above right) St John’s Cratloe girls team photo before they took to the field for their Division 4 final against Scariff; (above centre) Cratloe boys captain Oigie Gunter after his side won the hurling academy final (below) members of the Scariff team who won the Division 4 camogie final; (below) paramedic Fintan Hayes from Ennis is on standby; (below right and bottom) Clonmoney were crowned Division 2 champs after a battle with Clarecastle; (left) Siobhan Halpin, Lorraine O’Loughlin, Siobhan Marren, Aine Culloo, Muireann Mescal and Ciara Halpin; (bottom left) Cratloe and Clonmoney in action Photos by Tom Micks

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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Sport

Clare need to bounce back with a bang against Dublin

By Páraic McMahon

CHAMPIONSHIP SURVIVAL is on the line as Clare’s senior hurlers take to the field in Saturday’s All-Ireland SHC quarter-final.

Beaten Leinster finalists, Dublin stand in Clare’s path of reaching a fourth All-Ireland semi-final under Brian Lohan.

From the outset, the 2026 season has been coined as ‘a last dance’ for many of Clare’s hurlers and anything other than victory over Dublin this weekend would represent a hugely disappointing season.

When there has been a need to perform, Clare have largely delivered under Lohan and supporters heading to FBD Semple Stadium on Saturday will be optimistic of seeing a response from the men in saffron and blue following an incredibly underwhelming Munster campaign which included a fifteen point loss to Limerick and sixteen point defeat to Cork.

Saturday will be the third meeting between Clare and Dublin this season, They faced off in the first round of the Allianz National Hurling

League with Clare winning 3-18 1-22 in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg on January 25th. They later met in the Division 1B final in TUS Gaelic Grounds on April 5th, Clare running out 2-26 3-20 winners, having led 2-15 2-5 at half time.

Conor Cleary was presented with the league trophy on that occasion, the Miltown Malbay man was subsequently dropped for Clare’s final two outings in the Munster championship but is understood to be back in the reckoning to start at full-back this weekend.

Most recent preparations following Clare’s exit from Munster included a challenge match against Offaly where Lohan’s side were comfortable winners. Shane Meehan was said to be the standout Clare player which will heighten his chances of increased game-time in the All-Ireland series.

Mark Rodgers is understood to have got game-time in attack for Clare during the Offaly game and is edging closer to a full return to action following an injury sustained in the victory over Tipperary.

Apart from The Clare Echo report-

Tony Kelly gets away from Brian Hayes Photo by Gerard O’Neill

ing on this challenge match, there has been little build-up to Saturday’s quarter-final from a Clare perspective, this is the preference of Lohan’s

Clare Cup reaches semi-final stage

camp but does little to promote the game and whet the appetite of Clare’s loyal supporters that have travelled the length and breadth of

the country supporting the team this season.

Having shocked Limerick in last year’s quarter-final to win 2-24 0-28, Dublin are eying up an appearance in the All-Ireland semi-finals for the second year running. Injuries to Cian O’Sullivan, Chris Crummey and Liam Rushe weakened their challenge in the Leinster final and the Dubs will be quietly confident of causing an upset this weekend.

It will be the sixth championship meeting between the sides in twenty one years. Their most recent encounter was the 2023 All-Ireland quarter-final where Tony Kelly netted a hat-trick as Clare were 5-26 2-17 winners. Kelly made his championship debut in a memorable victory when Davy Fitzgerald and Anthony Daly were in opposing dugouts in Cusack Park, Fitzgerald’s charges winning 1-16 0-16.

Dublin last defeated Clare in 2010 and did so comprehensively on a score of 2-22 0-15 in the qualifiers, prior meetings in the qualifiers saw Clare prevail 4-21 1-16 in 2006 and 1-23 0-9 in 2005, both of which were during Anthony Daly’s Clare tenure.

Clare & Kilkenny clash for place in All-Ireland quarter-final

By Eoin Brennan

Scariff’s Keelan Hartigan gets away from Luke Hayes of Newmarket-on-Fergus Photo by Ruth Griffin

By Gearoid Howley

TWO TEAMS will be left standing in pursuit of glory for the Clare Cup by this weekend.

Semi-final action in the willwego.com Clare Cup takes place on Wednesday and Saturday in what is considered perfect championship preparation as the countdown edges closer before the chase for the Canon Hamilton kicks off.

Four teams are left in the running for honours in the willwego.com Clare Cup. Kilmaley, Newmarket-on-Fergus, O’Cal-

laghans Mills and Scariff who overcame Inagh/ Kilnamona, Feakle, Clooney/Quin and Crusheen respectively in the quarter-finals.

Notably three of the last four league champions are still in the competition.

Kilmaley (2022), O’Callaghans Mills (2023) and Newmarket-on-Fergus (2024) are the most recent winners following Clonlara’s elimination in the final round.

Clarecastle hosts the meeting of Kilmaley and the Mills on Wednesday (June 17th) at 19:30. The

Mills are the only unbeaten side left in the Clare Cup and recorded a 4-19 0-15 win at the expense of Kilmaley in round four.

Dr Daly Park in Tulla will be the setting on Saturday next (June 20th) when Scariff and Newmarket-on-Fergus face off at 13:00. The sides met all the way back in the first round of the Clare Cup in March when Scariff emerged with a deserved 0-26 1-14 victory.

Match reports of both semi-finals will be available online for subscribers of The Clare Echo.

CLARE’s senior camogie side are on the road this weekend facing off with Kilkenny where the reward for the winner is a guaranteed place in the Glen Dimplex All-Ireland quarter-finals.

Throwing in at 14:30 at UMPC Nowlan Park, the clash will also be streamed live on the Camogie Association’s YouTube channel.

So far it’s three wins from as many championship ties for Eugene Foudy’s Clare side. They’ve overcome Dublin (2-16 3-10), Wexford (3-9 1-11) and Limerick (1-13 0-11) to leave themselves on the cusp of back to back quarter-final appearances.

Speaking to The Clare Echo following the Limerick victory, Foudy outlined, “We’re delighted with that result. We knew coming into today’s match that Limerick’s championship lives were on the line as they couldn’t afford a second loss and therefore we expected them to throw the kitchen sink at us. But as I’ve said all year that if we could win our home games, it would go a long way to getting us to where we want to be and so it has proved”.

An emphasis has been placed on winning at home this year, he explained. “That was our fifth home game this year between league and championship and a fifth win as well so if you can keep winning your home games and make Ennis a fortress, then you always have a great shot at qualifying if you can pick up a win or two on the road. So we’re delighted to keep that run going now. Going in leading at half-time, having played into a

Abby Walsh Photo by Ruth Griffin

stiff breeze laid the foundation for this win. We had been a little shaky in the first five or ten minutes but you’d expect that with a young team and the added pressure of a home crowd. But the girls settled well, Roisin [Beg-

ley]’s goal really got us motoring and I don’t think we led the lead slip from there on in”.

Foudy said Clare have made the most of their two break before facing off with the Kittens in Nowlan Park.

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Thursday, Jun 18, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Clare lodge proposal with Munster GAA to give counties home advantage against Kerry & Cork

by Páraic McMahon CLARE GAA’s Munster delegates are bringing forward a proposal to give permanent home advantage to counties competing against Cork and Kerry in the provincial semi-finals and finals of the senior championship.

Last July, it was decided following a vote to seed the two counties in Munster with the highest ranking in the National Football League in opposing semi-finals of the senior championship.

It was decided to pause the introduction of this seeded system in November for one year but it is set to come into effect for 2027 and 2028 which will leave Kerry and Cork, who both lost out in the Division 1 and 2 league finals respectively, seeded at either end of the semi-final draw.

Plans to seed the highest ranking counties in Munster were never floated by provincial officers during Clare’s eight seasons under Colm Collins competing in Division 2 of the Allianz National Football League.

Based on performances in 2026, it cannot be argued that Kerry and Cork are the top two senior sides in Munster.

Both Joe Garry and John Callinan, Clare GAA’s Munster delegates have put a proposal before the provincial council that would give the unseeded counties of Clare, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford permanent home advantage at the semi-final and finals of the Munster championship when facing off with Cork and Kerry for as long as the seeded format exists.

The Clare Echo understands that Garry, a former Clare U21 football manager has worked to compile a list of results dating back a quarter of a century to prove that games are a

lot more competitive in the province when Kerry and Cork do not have home advantage against Clare, Limerick, Tipperary and Waterford.

This proposal is to be discussed and voted on at the July meeting of Munster Council. It was initially brought to the attention of officials and delegates from all counties in the province at their most recent meeting. It requires sixty percent support to be passed.

Should the proposal fail, it is expected that Clare will be rejecting the introduction of the seeded format.

Munster GAA Chairman, Tim Murphy said Clare GAA were within their democratic right to lodge the proposal. “At our last Council meeting, that proposal was raised by Clare, it was not voted on, all our delegates were made aware of it, it is up to each and every county to go back and look at the merits of that, it is not something which can be decided upon on a whim, hence the reason it was brought up at our last meeting to give counties plenty of time and ample opportunity to consider it and the merits or otherwise of going down that road, I am not going to comment either way of how the vote will go if there is a vote at the next meeting or the following meeting, that is the democratic nature of the Association we are all a part of, Clare are quite entitled to bring that motion forward, the counties of the province will ultimately decide”.

Speaking on a special Irish Examiner podcast, Murphy said not all of the four unseeded counties are against the proposed new format, the introduction of which has been delayed. “I wouldn’t subscribe to the view that every one of the four counties have an issue with the seeding, they obviously had concerns but we had a fairly frank and robust dis-

Dylan Casey is trapped by Cillian Brennan and Alan Sweeney Photo by Gerard O’Neill

cussion at our Council meeting and afterwards when engaging with the counties and with the GPA, on balance there is an acceptance, it is not universal but the majority view would be that it is the right thing to try it for a three-year period, it is not set in stone but if we continued to allow an open draw to continue, the likelihood of totally imbalanced Munster finals would continue in the future”.

Explaining the rationale for the introduction of the seeded system, Kerry native Murphy outlined, “If you compare the Munster hurling to the Munster football, you have way more competition in the hurling because you have five counties in any given year that could beat one another, in football unfortunately that is not the case, you have Kerry well ahead of most other counties and Cork then

coming in number two. As a concept, what I firmly believe in whether it is football or hurling, you should progress based on your merits and your capacity on the field to compete and win games, overall what we passed last year was exactly a seeded based championship which is based on the league, I think it is different this year to when other attempts made previously simply because the advent of the Tailteann Cup has in my view completely changed the landscape from 2026 to even ten years ago in 2016, the Tailteann is a league based system as to who participates in that so for me the logical extension to that in a province like ours where you have such an imbalance between counties in football that we had to make some intervention, to me the fairest way of doing that was

a league based system, we put that to the Council and the Council approved that, notwithstanding the fact it didn’t come in for 2026 but it is important to say we did engage a lot with the counties in the province, the GPA extensively and a compromise was arrived at where a delay of twelve months was agreed upon and everyone signed up to that.

“The important thing for me to say is this is a pilot project for three years, for too many years and for far too long there is a reticence on the part of our Association to just try something new, my contention is we try it for three years, if it makes a meaningful difference then great and we can continue, if it doesn’t we don’t have to continue it, it is a democratic decision but I do think that a lot of the time are not that open to trying new things, somebody said to me years ago ‘tradition can be made in the future as much as in the past’ and I think that is trying to respect the traditions of all our counties but to try move it forward in a way that is meaningful and will develop football, that is only one part of what we are doing, the second part was setting up our football development committee. Getting the two best teams in any given year to the provincial final, in my view and in the Council’s view, it absolutely wasn’t a unanimous decision but it gives the province really great exposure which it did, it gives football really great exposure in the province and football whether we like it or not has been the poor relation to hurling in the province over the last number of years, it would be remiss of me as the Cathaoirleach not to try do something address that imbalance which is what we have done,” he added.

Final round sees Lissycasey qualify for Cusack Cup decider

by Seamus Hayes LISSYCASEY have qualified for the final of the Cusack Cup with St Breckans and St Joseph’s Miltown to meet in the semi-finals while Ennistymon relegated St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield.

Three teams are left in the hunt for league honours in the willwego.com Cusack Cup following the final round of games held on Sunday afternoon.

Lissycasey jumped from second to first and into the final thanks to their win over Kilmurry Ibrickane. Leaders going into Sunday’s games were St. Breckans but they went down to Éire Óg resulting in them dropping down to second place. They will have a

home semi-final against St Joseph’s Miltown who lost to already relegated Kilrush Shamrocks. The meeting of Ennistymon and St. Josephs decided the second relegation spot with the Doora/Barefield men’s loss seeing them drop to the Garry Cup for next season.

Final standings in the Garry Cup won’t be confirmed until Friday evening when Wolfe Tones and Kildysart face off.

Doonbeg and Clondegad are safely through to the semi-finals.

Wolfe Tones will claim the remaining play-off spot if they draw or beat Kildysart on this Friday. A defeat for the Shannon men will leave them level on points with Corofin, Cratloe and

Kildysart resulting in scoring difference between the four teams being required to decide which one will go through.

Kildysart also need to win to avoid relegation, should they prevail they will send Cooraclare down to Division 3.

In division 3 Banner are through to the final where they await the winners of the semi-final game between Michael Cusacks and Kilmihil. The finalists will be playing in Division 2 (Garry cup) next season Kilmurry Ibrickane and Liscannor drop down to division 4 for next season.

Liscannor, Shannon Gaels and O’Currys all finished on 5 points and

scoring difference involving just the games between the three left Liscannor at the bottom.

Killimer are in the final of Division 4 and assured of promotion to Division 3. In the final they will play the winners of the semi-final game between Coolmeen and Kilfenora. Corofin and Éire Óg will drop down to Division 5.

For match reports from all the weekend’s Cusack Cup and Garry Cup action, scan the QR code.

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORTS

27

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

Sport

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

Seán Óg wins Captain’s Prize in Shannon

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

CAPTAIN Brian Lonergan’s prize was played for at Shannon at the weekend when there was a huge entry.

The winner was Sean Óg Murnane (3) with 68 and he won by one stroke from Kieran Kirby (13). P.J. Moroney (7) was third with 70 followed by John Garry (9) with a similar score.

Shane Flynn (6) was next with 71 followed by Dermot Hogan (12), also with 71. Jamie O’Shea (2) won the gross with 72.

Wednesday’s men’s open singles winner was David O’Brien (14) with 38 points from David Ryan (8) with 37 points. Robbie Corry (5) was third, also with 37 points while the gross was won by Damian Casey (+1) with 35 points.

The ladies June medal at Shannon was won by Sylvia O’Brien (36) with 67 nett. She was one stroke ahead of Lucy Twomey (31) with Lynda Quinn (17) in third place with 72.

Shannon ladies junior cup team advanced to the semi-finals with victory over Ballyneety and Limerick in Shan-

non on Sunday. Shannon will play Nenagh in the next round on July 5 at Castletroy.

Lahinch Golf Club News of the death of Robert McCavery, Seapark, Lahinch, cast a dark shadow across Lahinch Golf Club this week.

The McCavery family have a long connection with Lahinch Golf Club dating back to 1927 when Robert’s father, Bill, was appointed club professional. Robert joined his father as his assistant in 1959 and took over as club professional in 1977.

Robert catered for the needs of members and visitors at the golf shop including welcoming many famous golfers and celebrities to Lahinch before retiring in 2013, after 54 years of dedicated service to the club.

Robert was made an honorary life member in 2014 and continued to visit the club on a regular basis following his retirement.

Kilrush Golf Club The Med Pharma and West Clare trophies open singles at Kilrush was won by Andrew

Young (8) with 4 up. He won by one from John McNeilis (19) with 3 up.

Spanish Point Golf Club Spanish Point captain Tom Hehir’s prize to the ladies was played for at the weekend when Eimear Johnston won with 36 points from Noelle O’Connor with 34 points.

Ennis Golf Club Andrew McGloin (11) with 40 points won last week’s singles stableford competition at Ennis. He had one to spare over Gerry Bredin (20). The gross was won by Niall Hannon with 32 points.

The ladies weekly competition was an 18 hole v par for the Bogey cup, sponsored by Coco Restaurant. The winner was Phil Butler (32) with +4 from Attracta Williams (33) with +3. The gross was won by lady captain Mary T. McMahon (13) with -9.

The McKaigney cup is a senior men’s competition played for between Ennis and Gort which is decided on the best six cards from each club.

Ennis are this year’s winners with a score of 262 points as

against Gort’s 246 points.

Friday’s open singles sponsored by Martin Ward Golf was won by Derek Clancy (25) (Shannon Golf Club) with 37 points.

Ennis ladies minor foursomes team were victorious over Dromoland on Saturday at Ennis on a score of 3 to 1.

They will meet Ballyneety in the semi-final in July.

Ennis ladies junior cup team defeated Castletroy and Ballybunion on Sunday at Shannon on a score of 3 to 2 in both matches. They are through to the semi-final where they will meet Killarney on July 5 in Castletroy.

Woodstock Golf Club Category A in the ladies June medal at Woodstock was won by Chaye Kelly with 86 nett while the category B winner was Marianne McGough with 81 nett.

Last week’s AMR open singles saw Matty Nugent (10) win with 39 points and qualify for the end-of-season grand prize final.

In the weekend’s club singles, a Breen Building Design

Woodstock Masters Order of Merit competition, the winner was John Dempsey (16) with 39 points with Jason Dormer (3) winning the gross.

Woodstock hosted a Play in Pink day on Tuesday raising funds for the Cancer Research Unit at University Hospital Galway. The day was a huge success and raised €4,150.

East Clare Golf Club The men’s white tee singles v par competition at East Clare on Sunday was won by Declan Kinahan (26) with 5 up from Eddie Rosney (20) with 4 up with third place filled by Kieran Quinn (12) with 3 up. The gross was won by Michael Rochford (4) with 76.

The yellow tee singles v par competition was won by Edmund Bourke (22) with 10 up from Ger O’Halloran (22) with 2 up. Ian McNamara (6) won the gross.

Evelyn O’Brien (23) with 34 points won the ladies 18 hole singles.

Dromoland Golf Club The P & M sponsored ladies medal at Dromoland at the

weekend was won by Siobhan Doohan with 72 net and she won on a countback from Karina Doyle. Trish O’Brien was third with 75 followed by Dolores Fox, also with 75. The gross was won by Suzanne McConway.

The men’s competition was a rumble and it was won by Brian and David McNamara with 56 points from John and Dermot O’Neill who had a similar score. In third place, a point back, were Evan O’Mara and Conor Barry.

Gort Golf Club Pat McNamara (22) was the winner of the men’s 18 hole singles at Gort sponsored by Powerhouse Gym with 40 points.

Friday’s open 18 hole singles stableford was won by Shane Neylon (12) with 33 points.

In the ladies 18 hole stroke competition category 1 was won by Siobhan Forde (10) with 73, the category 2 winner was Phil Mulkerrins (29) with 72 while category 3 was won

by Margaret Coleman (40) with 71.

Laura shifting gear for Radical Cup round two

Liscannor trained You’re The King lights up Galway

BROADFORD’s Laura O’Connell is upping the ante for her second race of the season at Oulton Park International for round two of the Radical Cup UK. After making her solo debut in the Radical Cup at the beginning of May this year with RJ Motorsport, Laura is hoping to use her newfound experience to push to another level in the second round.

She will spend Friday learning the track at Oulton Park which promises a challenging and intriguing set up with an initial 25-minute qualifying session, followed by a 50-minute e n d u ra n c e race. Knowing that every lap counts, teams will have to be strategic with their pitstops, and drivers will need to remain focused on this circuit which

LISCANNOR trainer Declan McDonagh had two big wins in Galway over the weekend with You’re The King showing the pedigree of his Darcy owners from Ennis.

Having been badly baulked at the start and further impeded during his debut effort in a hot novice point contest the Mick Darcy of Ennis owned and trained by Declan McDonagh of Liscannor You’re The King certainly lit up the card in the A8 graded third contest at Galway on Saturday night.

The son of Dromana Bucko & Coronation routed his rivals by upwards of ten and a half lengths in a very smart 28.79. Headed slightly from traps by Mellon Alana, You’re The King really motored to the opening bend rounding which he led by three lengths. Turning down the back he really lengthened his stride

By Páraic McMahon

features many high speed blind corners.

Laura will be the sole Irish competitor on the track, flying the flag with pride as she continues to work hard and develop her racing skills at unfamiliar tracks all the while aiming for her first podium in the Radical Cup competition.

Preparation for race week one was tough for O’Connell who unfortunately experienced the untimely passing of her grandfather, Patrick just days before she was due to race at the Brands Hatch circuit.

She said, “The first race was definitely an eye-opener for me. I was racing on the amazing Brands Hatch GP track for the first time, and I had to adapt to it quickly. The Radical Cup is a real change of pace to what I’ve raced

in before, there are some great drivers in the competition. Each race is another step along the path of my development and seeing GP greats like Valentino Rossi and Arthur LeClerc walking the same paddock as me at Brands Hatch only makes me more motivated”.

Speaking of the location for round two O’Connell said: “Oulton Park will be a new track for me, and I will have to get to grips with it as best as I can during testing. The circuit is known for its unpredictable corners, and I’ll have to be switched on from the first light to the chequered flag to put my name in the ring”.

On her future goals, Laura outlined, The dream is to do the 24 hour Le Mans, it is the most prestigious event in the racing world, anyone that is a racing driver would love to race in it, it is a few years down the line but it is looking more likely every year”.

Round Two of the Radical Cup UK will take place in Oulton Park, UK, on Saturday 20th June.

By Michael Maher

as he drew further and further clear with his rivals strung out behind leaving You’re The King to saunter home impressively all alone ahead of Glynnscross Buzz and Seelers Dream.

Owner Mick Darcy is no stranger to the winners enclosure and looks to have a something special here, the Cashel native who now resides in Ennis ran the very successful Darcy Kennels with his wife Francis and daughter Catherine in Florida.

Having celebrated his fifth birthday last month the Larry Keleghan owned Claudegreengrass proved the dogs love their racing as the Albert Mullins of Gort trained son of Magical Bale and Notimetotalk never saw another rival as he recorded career win number seventeen by six lengths over Ballygibbon Smok in 29.35 in race seven.

The winner was very smartly into his stride and has always been a tough nut to crack when on the front end, he led by two lengths from Alva Chase rounding the opening bend. Racing down the back the Claudegreengrass more than trebled his advantage over his toiling rivals and was home for all money exiting the back straight.

The Final of the Irish Retired Greyhound Trust Sprint Stakes was the feature on Friday night’s Galway card.

In the A3 graded sixth contest over 525 yards the Declan McDonagh of Liscannor trained N o r fo l k a n d c h a n c e never saw another rival as the son of Ballyhimikin Jet and Raha Gogo recorded his sixth career success by four lengths over Breaghmore Joeys in 29.20. Away smartly Norfolkandchance owned by the syndi-

cate of the same name showed good pace on the run towards the opening bend rounding which he led by two lengths from Breaghmore Joeys with Heathlawn Ruby in third place. Racing down the back, he extended his lead to four lengths as his rivals were left toiling in his wake to the delight of his supporters in the stands.

Race four at Limerick on Saturday night was heat two of the West Limerick Treaty Cup Open over the 350 trip where Tiermana Dream had a four and a half length win in a time of 18.96. The winner is owned by the Zero Zero Syndicate and is trained in Kilrush by Colm Fitzgerald. The final race in the card was won by Snuggie Battie in a time of 28.42. Battie is owned by Breda Casey and trained by Myles Cummins of Newmarket-on-Fergus.

28

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Thursday, Jun 18 , 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Plannings

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PLANNING

MONTHS MIND

† Fitzgerald John (Seán Óg), Main Street, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare (formerly Tooreens, Glenmore, Waterville Co. Kerry) Died 21st May 2026 We, the family of John, would like to express our heartfelt thanks and appreciation to everyone for the support and many acts of kindness we received from our dear and valued families, neighbours, friends, work colleagues, and communities in Miltown Malbay and South Kerry.

Thank you to all those who called to our home, brought food, provided accommodation, and attended the reposal, funeral mass, and burial. We greatly appreciate all the mass cards, phone calls, text messages, shared messages of condolence through RIP.ie, and donations given in lieu of flowers. Our deepest gratitude to Fr. Donagh O’Meara and Fr. Martin Shanahan for their many visits to John throughout his illness; it brought great comfort, peace, and strength to John and to us all during such a difficult time.

Thank you, Fr. Donagh, for concelebrating such a beautiful and meaningful service with Fr. John Meade, who travelled from Tipperary to be with us. Thank you to John G. Devitt, Willie and Majella Healy, Rita O’Dwyer, the altar servers, Anita Talty and her choir; your contributions added greatly to the Mass. To Josephine Howard Talty who was with John during his final moments and provided such a lovely, spiritual passing for him We are deeply grateful to Dr. Dympna O’Dwyer and her team at the medical centre for the exceptional care John received. We also thank Dr. Billy O’Connell for his care over the years.

Thank you to Dr. Aisling Nee and her team at UHL, and to the nurses and support staff in the Day Ward and Ward 6B for all your kindness. To Daragh McDonagh, thank you for all the support and help given to John while he was an inpatient. To Public Health Nurses Hannah Finnucane and Aileen O’Looney for their outstanding community care, and to Eileen Williams and the palliative care team: thank

you. To Marie Kelly, Mary McDonagh, and all the staff at Kelly’s Pharmacy, we offer a sincere thank you. To the Queally family undertakers, thank you for your care, kindness, and professionalism; your compassion and attention to detail meant so much to our family. We sincerely appreciate the dignity and respect shown throughout the funeral arrangements.

To John Malone and Liam Carroll for preparing John’s final resting place, and to his four Tooreens friends and neighbours who laid John down to his place of rest thank you. Thank you to Seamus and PJ Murrihy, Aoife Granville and Michelle Fitzgerald, for the beautiful music and songs. Thank you to the Westbridge, The Forge, An Bacus for all the beautiful food provided over the days of the funeral. Thank you to Noel Lineen for all his help with the farm during John’s illness. The help and support of all those not personally mentioned in this acknowledgement will not be forgotten.

Thank you sincerely. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for your intentions.

John’s memory is our greatest treasure to have and to love and keep forever.

NEWSPAPER NOTICE CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TWOMILEGATE, BALLYCUGGARAN, KILLALOE, CO. CLARE. Take notice that West Lake Aqua Park intends to apply to the above stated authority for planning permission for the installation of an inflatable aqua park that will operate seasonally from May 1st to September 30th inclusive (previously permitted under planning reference P21/1244); the aqua park will consist of an inflatable floating obstacle course, floating access pontoon, 20ft container for check-in and 40ft container for changing facilities, including all associated site works at Twomilegate, Ballycuggaran, Killaloe, Co. Clare.

A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) has been prepared and will be submitted to the authority with this application.

The planning application and the Natura Impact Statement may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application and

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LEAGARD SOUTH, MILTOWN MALBAY Take notice that Mary Haran intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain existing furniture storage area, existing toilet facilities and permission for ten car parking spaces and rear yard area to accommodate trucks deliveries and collecting furniture at the above address.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CRAGROE, TULLA CO. CLARE Take Notice that I Sinead Conlon intend to apply to Clare County Council For Permission for the Construction of a Single Storey Dwellinghouse, Garage & Proprietary Waste Treatment Plant, Bored Well, Vehicular Entrance and driveway including all ancillary site works at 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 of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during it’s 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 of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE CO COUNCIL NO. 7 STATION ROAD, ENNIS Planning permission is sought to: a) Alter, extend & refurbish existing derelict dwelling house (V95 W9VC) b) Reconfigure existing vehicular entrance including all associated site works & services.

Applicant;s Seamus & Mary Marlborough The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

John’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St Joseph’s Church, Miltown Malbay on Saturday June 20th at 12pm.

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30

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

PUZZLE 30 PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, MAY 12 2022

THISWEEKS WEEKS PUZZLES PUZZLES MAY THIS June 12th 18th

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

ANSWERS

HOW TO PLAY 1/2

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The Clare Echo Crossword 1 Card suit (6) CROSSWORD ANSWERS 1 Conflict (6) 2 Bounce back (7) 4 Appalled (6) 8 Fossil resin used for jewel- 3 Sacked (5) 5 Origin (7) lery (5) 9 Clinging part of a plant (7) 6 Major blood vessel (5) 10 South American country 7 Sharp hooked claws (6) 9 Triple (9) (7) 13 Become shrunken and wrin11 Frogs’ eggs (5) kled (7) 12 Indigestion (9) 17 Tree related to the birch 14 Make louder (7) 15 Material (6) (5) 16 Amalgamated (6) 19 Couplet (anag) (7) 18 The Three Musketeers author 21 Taken away (7) (5) 22 Regretting (5) 20 Cast, shed (5) 23 Expensive (6) 24 Influenced (6)

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Daily Quick Crossword: 9 May 2022 ,5/9/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

31

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 18, 2026

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

Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz

What is the population of Liscannor as per 2022?

147 128 135

What colours do Liscannor GAA play in?

Black and white Green and red

How far are the Cliffs of Moher from Liscannor?

10km 7km 5km

Maroon and white Liscannor is called Líos Ceannúir in Irish. What does this mean?

Cormac’s Fort Conal’s Land O’Connor’s Fort

There is a holy well in the village dedicated to which Saint?

St. Patrick St. Brigid St. Flannan

Which bus route links Liscannor and Ennistymon?

340 350 320

What is the name of the soccer team that plays out of Liscannor?

Sporting Ennistymon Moher Celtic Fern

There are three churches in Liscannor. Which is the oldest?

St. Brigid’s Church Derry Church Moymore Church

Engineer John Philip Holland was from Liscannor. What did he invent?

Airplane Submarine Tank

Liscannor last won the Clare SFC in what year?

1895 1912 1940

Movies to see this week

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS Maroon and white O’Connor’s Fort 350 Derry Church 1940

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

135 5km St. Brigid Moher Celtic Submarine

Spot the Difference

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

Last weeks Answers . Ball missing . Number 1 missing on jersey . Adidas missing on goalie jersey . Adidas missing on shorts (person in red

centre) . Red part missing in number 8 on jersey . Crest missing on jersey (right) . Adidas missing on shorts (person in red 2nd from centre)

CBS students leave Ennis councillors ‘mind blown’ & predicting next Elon Musk is from county town

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11 July & 15 | 23 August From €20.00 |FREE for residents

15 July & 05 | 12 August From €20.00 |FREE for residents

Most Summerfest shows are complimentary for residents.