The Clare Echo 23/04/26 by The Clare Echo

TONY SIGNS OFF ON THE BANNER’S OPENING WIN

Drug drops under M18 bridges?

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

BRIDGES underneath yovers of the M18 are the sites of ‘drug drop-o s’ in the county according to a former Mayor of Clare.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) claimed that drugs are being “thrown out of cars on the motorway for pick-up” by waiting clients at locations including Ballymacahill outside Roslevan.

“ ere’s activity at night where drugs are reportedly thrown out of cars on the motorway for pick up at the location”. Putting a light

on the pole would improve public safety and deter the drug drops, she said in her call to have a light installed on a public light in Ballymacahill just o the Tulla Rd.

O cials in Clare County Council said they were “not overly familiar” with the issues of criminal behaviour referred to by Cllr Colleran Molloy.

Tony Kelly signs autographs after Clare’s win against Waterford last Sunday at the Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg Photo by Ruth Grifﬁn

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Knockanean NS become first Clare winners of Robotics Competition

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

KNOCKANEAN National School became the first Clare school to win the eleventh annual Analog Devices Primary Schools Robotics Competition Final.

Held at Analog Devices Inc. (ADI) Campus in Raheen, Limerick this weekend over the weekend, Knockanean emerged as the winners as over 100 students from Munster went head to head with self-designed sumo wrestling robots.

Eight Clare schools were in the competition St Aidan’s NS, St Conaire’s NS, Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg, St Tola’s NS, Ennis NS, Scariff NS and St John’s NS involved alongside the Knockanean champions.

After a morning of constructing and programming their robots, 105 fifth and sixth class students from Clare, Cork, Limerick and Tipperary competed in a series of knock-out rounds where their robots were pitted against each other in a ring. Each team collected points for teamwork, design, and innovation as well as creativity in the poster showcase.

Watched on by teachers, family and friends, Adam Maguire, Donnacha Mockler and Orla Brookes from Knockanean NS were crowned overall winners, impressing judges with their innovation, teamwork and the performance of their robot in the arena.

Holly Boyce, Mya White, Shauna White and Annie White from Scoil Muire Broadford, Limerick were runners-up.

In the lead-up to the final, participating schools took part in an advanced hands-on robotics workshop, where students learned to design, build and programme their own robots. The initiative encourages teamwork, creativity and problem-solving, while developing skills in coding, design thinking and collaboration.

The Analog Devices Primary Schools Robotics Competition is designed to pro-

mote Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) among primary school students by giving them a practical introduction to engineering and technology.

Now in its eleventh year, the programme has grown significantly and continues to expand across the Mid-West, building on its long-standing presence in Limerick. Fiona Treacy, Managing Director, Sustainable Automation at ADI stated, “This competition is about giving students a real, hands-on experience of STEM and showing them how engineering works in a fun environment. The students excelled this year, and it was clear to see the level of creativity, teamwork and problem-solving developed through the programme. These are valuable skills that will stand to students in the future, regardless of the career path they choose”.

The competition begins months in advance, with Analog Devices partnering with LearnIt to deliver complimentary robotics workshops to all registered primary schools. One team from each school was given the opportunity to progress to the regional semi-finals which were held in Limerick Racecourse across two days in March and then the final.

Since its inception, the programme has engaged nearly 10,000 primary school students, helping to spark early interest in STEM and inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.

Previous champions include Scoil Íde (2015), St. Patrick’s Girls NS (2016), Our Lady Queen of Peace NS (2017), Killoughteen NS (2018 & 2025), Scoil Mhuire Broadford (2019 & 2023), St. Patrick’s N.S Bruree (2020) and St. Patrick’s National School, Dublin Road (2022 & 2024).

l BRIGHT LIGHTS OF FUTURE: Pictured from L to R are: Adam Maguire, Donnacha Mockler and Orla Brookes, Knockanean National School with Kate O’Riordan and Fiona Treacy, Analog Devices

Photo by Brian Arthur

Calls to put ambulances at local Fire Stations

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

ELECTED members of Clare County Council were told to “be cautious” with a proposal to base ambulance units at fire stations in Ennis, Kilrush and Shannon.

At the April meeting of the County Council, a joint proposal from Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) and Cllr Rachel Haritgan (FF) called for dedicated ambulance units to be based at fire stations in the county.

Costs involved led to the top table of the local authority issuing a note of caution to the request from elected members.

Ambulance response times in Co Clare are “unacceptable,” the quartet outlined in their joint motion. “Local authorities are tasked with protecting life and responding to emergencies. Yet, in County Clare, firefighters are increasingly left providing critical first response care while patients wait prolonged periods for ambulance transport, an arrangement that is neither sustainable nor acceptable”.

They cited the Dublin Fire Brigade operated by Dublin City Council which provides integrated fire and ambulance services with twelve emergency ambulances and twenty plus fire engines for “demonstrating that co-location is a practical, proven solution that can significantly reduce response times and save lives”.

A review of ambulance cover

across the county was requested along with the “adoption of co-located fire and ambulance response models where appropriate to ensure no community is left waiting in an emergency. This is a matter of patient safety, equity of service, and public confidence. Delays cost lives, this must be acted on without further delay”.

Speaking at the April meeting, Cllr Baker Bashua stated, “We’re talking about people not stats”. Lives have been put “at risk” by the lengthy wait times experienced by

the Clare public for ambulances. “We’re tasked with protecting life, how can we stand over that responsibility when we know people are waiting far too long for support. In Dublin, fire brigades and ambulances work side by side, it saves time.

“Why should people of Clare expect anything less. Why should we have to wait longer or hope harder just because of where we live, we are not asking for special treatment. When someone dials 999 they shouldn’t be worrying if the am-

bulance will get there in time,” she added.

Fire stations can be utilised better, Cllr Guilfoyle maintained. “It is not us saying we don’t need more from NAS, we’re saying provide the service at our fire stations which would be of great benefit to the people in the county”.

There are too many occasions where West Clare residents have been left without an ambulance, Cllr Lynch said. “We have resources, our fire personnel are superb, we don’t have an ambulance bay but we have one sitting in Kilrush”.

Dublin’s model is proven and “has delivered results, we should be exploring and implementing similar situations in Co Clare” Cllr Hartigan insisted. Extra pressure has been placed on firefighters by getting them to try fill the gap for paramedics, she said.

An ambulance helicopter plan should also be assessed, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) said.

“Now that we know our hospital won’t be in Clare, we need this more than ever. We also need to look at a helicopter plan, I know more than anyone from my family that when tragedy hits time is of the essence”.

Kilkee is also worthy of an ambulance base for the people living in the Loop Head Peninsula and Doonbeg, Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) flagged.

“There was an incident beyond

Cross two weeks ago, an ambulance went up the narrow road but damaged its tyre, the paramedic never realised the tyre was damaged, they were gone four miles when he realised he had puncture.

“Farmers came out to help and they were told another crowd had to do it so the patient was taken out of ambulance and brought back to their house, by the time the puncture was fixed, it was 5pm”.

Director of Service for Transportation, Climate Action, Environmental and Emergency Services, Carmel Kirby told the meeting the Fire Service does responds to calls to assist the ambulance service and that the presence of defibrillators in their vehicles “has resulted in lives being saved in the county”.

She issued a note of caution to councillors on the costs involved with their proposal.

“We really need to reconsider this because we need to proceed with caution, Clare County Council is not compensated by the NAS to assist with ambulance service, there is a cost implication there for Clare County Council”.

She said Dublin City Council footed a bill in the region of €26m in 2023 for their service and they were only able to recoup €9m from the NAS.

Recruitment of firefighters is “in a much better place” for the local authority. In response, Cllr Baker Bashua said she wanted the HSE to bear the costs.

l Ennis Fire Station and (right, top to bottom) Cllr Antoinette

Baker Bashua, Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle, Cllr Ian Lynch and Cllr

Rachel Hartigan

Ennis bus service finally on the way

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

ENNIS’ new town bus service has been delayed yet again - but a finish line is in sight.

Talk of a town bus service for Ennis was first raised at local government level in 2004 and most recent timeframes were for it to be operational at the beginning of 2025, this was pushed back to the summer of 2026 and now the launch of the town bus is autumn of this year at the earliest.

Works began this week on the installation of bus stop infrastructure for the town bus service. Impacted roads include from the Tulla Road to the Shanaway Road via the town centre, and from the Gort Road to the Clare Road and Clarecastle via the town centre.

A spokesperson for Clare County Council stated, “As works will be mostly carried out at kerbside, significant impacts on traffic flow are not anticipated”.

The spokesperson

added, “Operation of the new bus service is expected to commence on completion of these works in the autumn”.

Progress with the service has occurred at “a snail’s pace”, political sources have remarked to The Clare Echo. It had been included as a key target in the controversial Ennis 2040 plan.

In 2017, former councillor Johnny Flynn then of Fine Gael received unanimous backing from his colleagues in the Ennis Municipal District which asked “to urgently seek the National Transport Agency (NTA) to plan to provide for the first time a bus service in Ennis as the NTA are currently in the process of doing similarly for rural towns of Carlow, Mullingar and Letterkenny”.

Brian McCarthy who was the Council’s senior planner at the time said in response, “Clare County Council is interested in working with a local group proposing such a project together with state supported

agencies, in order to achieve the objectives as set out in the Clare County development plan 2017-2023 and the rural development strategy”.

From early 2022 to June 2023, the NTA and the Ennis MD worked on finalising the pre-

ferred routes for the bus service and developed detailed stop and terminus designs. The preferred routes will traverse Ennis from the Lahinch Road to the Tulla Road and from Clarecastle to Ballymaley via a town centre terminus at Friar’s Walk,

with scope for the development of an additional route from Doora Industrial Estate to and from the town centre.

When operational, the service will run seven days a week for eighteen hours daily, the NTA have said previously. The NTA have

said that seven out of ten Ennis residents will be situated within 400m of a bus stop with nine out of ten residents being within 800m of a bus stop.

Speaking this week, Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) described the installa-

tion of the bus stop infrastructure as “a significant milestone for Ennis and for Clare”.

She stated, “The introduction of a new frequent Ennis Town Bus Service, every 30 minutes, aligns with a number of objectives set out in the Clare County Development Plan, including supporting sustainable modes of travel, reducing reliance on cars, supporting the night-time economy through improved evening and late-night accessibility and strengthening linkages to rural transport through huband-spoke services”.

Senior engineer with the Ennis MD, Hugh McGrath commented, “These enabling works will provide safe, accessible bus stop infrastructure and improved waiting areas along the new routes. Works will be managed to minimise disruption, and we thank residents, businesses and road users for their cooperation while the project is delivered”.

l Sean Abeyta from GLAS Civil Engineering with Mayor of Ennis Cllr Mary Howard and Senior Engineer Ennis Municipal District Hugh McGrath at the site of one of the new bus stops being installed in Ennis

Photo by Eamon Ward

Only one of 14 victims of Garda’s unauthorised PULSE disclosures provide victim impact

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

ONLY one of the 14 victims of an ex Ennis Garda’s unauthorised PULSE data disclosures has provided a victim impact statement in the case.

Counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford (BL) said that the victims in the case of Shane Flanagan’s unauthorised disclosure of Garda PULSE personal data “were not aware that their data had been breached”.

Ms Comerford said that only one of the 14 victims contacted by the State has confirmed that they will provide a victim impact statement

At Ennis Circuit Court on Tuesday, Ms Comerford (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) made her comment as Mr Flanagan’s co-accused, Colm Meere (45) of Knockanean, Tulla Road, Ennis, Co. Clare entered seven guilty pleas for his role in the offences.

In the case, Mr Meere has pleaded guilty to inciting Shane Flanagan (39) of Ennis, Co Clare on January 12th 2020 to obtain and disclose personal data on the Garda Pulse system regarding an individual with the initials L.L. to him.

Mr Meere has also pleaded guilty to inciting Mr Flanagan to obtain and disclose personal data on the Garda Pulse system regarding an individual with the initials, F.S. on February 13th 2020.

Mr Meere entered guilty pleas to inciting Mr Flanagan to disclose personal data on individuals from the Garda Pulse system concerning R.N. on April 13th 2020; on W.S. on May 3rd 2020; on G.L. on June 16th 2020 and on I.S. on September 24th 2020.

Mr Meere has also pleaded guilty to a drug trafficking offence where on April 14th 2022 to having in his possession at Henry Street Garda Station, Limerick a tick list, bag sealer, tin foil, scissors, baggies and a mobile phone, in circum-

stances where there was a reasonable inference that the items were in his possession or control for a purpose in connection with drug trafficking.

Counsel for Mr Meere, Patrick Whyms (BL (instructed by solicitor, Daragh Hassett) said that Mr Meere has never been in trouble before, has no previous convictions and is a working man.

Mr Whyms applied for a Probation Report to be carried out on his client and Judge Francis Comerford directed that the report be carried out.

Mr Whyms said that while Mr Meere’s and Mr Flanagan’s offences are mirror offences, the nuances are very different.

Mr Flanagan has previously entered guilty pleas to six PULSE offences

Ennis man who

sent

from 14 counts before the court.

Mr Flanagan who resigned from the Gardaí in March of last year is currently serving a seven year jail term for inciting strangers to rape a colleague and appeared via video-link from prison.

Judge Comerford said that there are merits to having a joint sentencing hearing for Mr Flanagan and Mr Meere.

Mr Flanagan is due to be sentenced next week and Judge Comerford adjourned Mr Meere’s case to a call over of cases on May 1st. Mr Meere was further remanded on bail to that date.

Judge Comerford said that he would decide next week if the sentencing of Mr Flanagan should proceed.

Burglary rate declines by 36% in Clare

NEW figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) showing a that the number of burglaries in the Clare Gardaí division has decreased by almost 40 per cent.

According the the figures, there was a 36 per cent decline in burglary in Clare in the 12 months of 2025 compared to 2024, with 129 reports of burglaries occurring.

While the picture acorss the country was also positive, Clare’s improvement in burglary rates improved by more than double the national rate of 13 per cent.

This is the first decline in yearly burglary rates in three years. Recorded burglaries fell from 9,748 to 8,469, marking one of the most encouraging year-on-year declines in recent years.

The CSO data shows that 22 of the 28 Garda divisions experienced a decrease, one remained unchanged, and five recorded an increase.

These shifts highlight the growing impact of stronger home security measures and increased public awareness across Ireland, according to PhoneWatch.

Several Garda divisions recorded particularly striking improvement, with Roscommon/Longford seeing the largest decrease at 61% (103 burglaries), followed by Mayo at 44% (66 burglaries), Sligo/Leitrim at 40% (86 burglaries) and Limerick at 38% (357 burglaries).

“These reductions may reflect a combination of factors, including increased Garda visibility, stronger community engagement, and a growing uptake of monitored alarm systems and smart home security technology.”

In contrast, some regions did see increases in burglary rates over the 12 months. Dublin Eastern region recorded the highest increase at 24% (492 burglaries), followed by Wexford at 18% (348 burglaries).

lewd images of himself to counsellor ‘has

by Gordon Deegan

very, very

posed himself in public “has a has a very, very serious cocaine addiction which has led him to act out in the most unusual ways”, a court heard today.

serious cocaine addiction’

At Ennis District Court today, solicitor, Daragh Hassett also told Judge Adrian Harris that his client, Shane McCarthy’s cocaine intake resulted “in a complete disinhibition in how he behaved around certain individuals”.

In the case, Mr McCarthy (30) of Shanballa, Lahinch Road, Ennis, but currently living on bail in Galway, has pleaded guilty to sending four lewd images of himself to his then addiction counsellor on May 5th last year.

Mr McCarthy has also pleaded guilty to masturbating in a public place at Silvergrove, Ballybeg, Ennis on August 31st last year and the possession of cocaine on the same date at Ennis Garda Station.

Mr McCarthy is also before the court where he is charged with masturbating in a public place on December 18th last at Ballyalla Lake on the northern outskirts of Ennis.

Mr Hassett said that a psychologist’s report on Mr McCarthy is now complete and available to the court.

Mr Hassett said that Mr McCarthy is scheduled to enter a treatment centre on

June 2nd.

Mr Hassett said that Mr McCarthy is now living in Galway as part of his bail conditions and hasn’t got in difficulty in the past six weeks following a complete sea change. Mr Hassett said that he would be asking at the sentencing date that the final sentencing would be adjourned until after Mr McCarthy completes his treatment programme.

Mr Hassett said that it is agreed that it is not a good idea for Mr McCarthy to return to Ennis on a full time basis but that Gardai have agreed to a change in his bail conditions that he can return home on Saturdays to spend time with his children.

Sgt John Burke previously told the court that two of the grossly offensive communications to the addiction counsellor concerned one second videos of Mr McCarthy’s penis.

Sgt Burke said that four grossly offensive images consisted of two videos and two still images of Mr McCarthy’s penis.

Judge Adrian Harris remanded Mr McCarthy on continuing bail to re-appear before court on May 6th.

l Shane Flanagan

AN ENNIS man who sent lewd images of himself to an addiction counsellor and ex-

Ennis woman wins court case over ‘ruined’ Karen Millen dress

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

AN ENNIS woman has won a court battle concerning a designer Karen Millen dress that she says was ‘ruined’ only days before she was due to wear the gown at a wedding last June.

This follows Judge Adrian Harris in a Small Claims case at Ennis District Court granting Angela Downey a decree of €280 for the price of the damaged dress against Tatjana Merzvinska of The Atelier clothing repair shop.

Judge Harris made the award in favour of Ms Downey after she produced the ‘damaged’ Karen Millen dress in court for the judge to inspect.

Mrs Downey’s husband carried the dress across the courtroom up to the witness box and Ms Downey gave Judge Harris a closeup of the damage to the dress.

Mrs Downey of Ros Na Rí, Shanaway Rd, Ennis was due to attend a wedding in June of last year and paid out €280 for the online purchase. She brought it and another dress belonging to her daughter in May to The Atelier clothing alteration service for alteration.

Mrs Downey said that she wanted The Atelier “to take up the length of the (Karen Millen) dress, take in the width and adjust the sleeve length”.

Mrs Downey collected the Karen Millen dress and said that she did not see the need to try it on at The Atelier as she had enjoyed a very good service from them previously. Mrs Downey said that when she tried on the dress at home a couple of days before the wedding the dress “was damaged beyond repair”.

She said that the dress “was ruined”. She said, “The hem was ragged, the beading and decoration was falling off, the lining had been stretched and misaligned”.

She said, “The dress was too short and the wedding was the next day”.

Mrs Downey returned to The Atelier to highlight the damage done and the business offered to repair the damage “but in my opinion the dress could not be repaired and certainly could not be prepared in time for the wedding”.

Mrs Downey told the court, “I did not do the damage to that dress, it was in perfect condition when I handed it in for alteration… I wouldn’t sit here today if I didn’t believe the dress was in perfect condition when it was handed in”.

Mrs Downey subsequently purchased a replacement dress in Brown Thomas in time for the wedding at a cost of €199. She said that she was not making any claim for that additional purchase.

In the case both sides had no legal representation and in court Ms Merzvinska disputed that she owed Ms Downey the €280 for the cost of a new dress.

She told Judge Harris that Mrs Downey did not provide her with a receipt of the dress which would have been needed by her accountant to process.

Ms Merzvinska said that she refunded Mrs Downey the combined €215 cost of altering Mrs Downey’s dress and her daughter’s. She said that The Atelier was not responsible for the store for the cost of the garment which it did not sell.

‘Drug drops happening under M18 bridges’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DRUGS are being dropped off by drivers along the M18 to an underneath bridge in Ballymacahill according to a county councillor.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) said at a meeting of the Ennis Municipal District that drugs are being “thrown out of cars on the motorway for pick-up” underneath bridges.

She tabled a motion asking the local authority to provide a public light on a pole in Ballymacahill just off the Tulla Rd in Roslevan “in the interests of public safety and to deter criminal behaviour along that stretch of the motorway”.

Acting senior engineer Paddy Tiernan said the proposal had been considered but was rejected.

“As this location is on a rural local road, we are not currently in a position to recommend the installation of a single, stand alone light at this time.

“One-off lighting in isolated areas generally does not provide a measurable improvement in public safety, nor is it considered an effective deterrent to criminal activity on its own. Lighting needs are normally assessed as part of broader area based plans, where coordinated in-

stallation offers better value and impact. The location can, however, be kept under review as part of future assessments”.

Quin native Colleran Molloy stated that the location “may be rural” but is situated just underneath the M18. She admitted she was not pleased with the Council’s reply. “It gives the impression I’m asking for a pole to be installed, I’m not. There is a pole installed already and I’m asking for a light to be put on the pole. There’s activity at night where drugs are reportedly thrown out of cars on the motorway for pick up at the location”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua

(FF) commented, “If there is a pole already, can we revisit to see if light could be put up”.

Responding to Colleran Molloy’s plea for costings, the senior engineer said it would be in the region of €16002000.

Tiernan added that they may revisit the matter, however noted, “I’m sure it’s not as simple as plug and play, I’m sure there’s some electrical works to plug it up”. Costs up to €2000 are “manageable,” Cllr Colleran Molloy said. “If we need to meet local people to get further substance to their assertion, this would discourage the criminal activity,” she said.

l The M18 Motorway which runs through County Clare

Top European Commission role for Scariff’s Whelan

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SCARIFF’s Anthony Whelan has been appointed to one of the top jobs in the European Commission.

Anthony becomes the first Irish person in more than seven years to be hired to a top executive position in the European Union following his appointment as Director General of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Competition. The Competition Directorate has opened several cases into US companies such as Google, Meta, Apple and X.

Philip Lane being made chief economist of the European Central Bank in March 2019 was the last Irish individual to take on an influential policy-making role in Europe.

Considered a veteran within the European Commission, Whelan succeeds former Director-General Olivier Guersent after a ninemonth hiatus, ending a spell of uncertainty marked by mounting U.S. hostility over how the EU enforces its tech antitrust rulebook.

Among the pressing items on his desk include an overhaul of the bloc’s merger guidelines, an urgent review of State Aid rules to respond to the energy shock from the U.S. and Israeli war on Iran.

A former aide to European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, Whelan’s appointment is viewed in Europe as ‘a safe pair of hands’ and trusted figure of the EC President who will modernise competition policy so European business can stand their ground against global rivals. He advised von der Leyen on digital policy for her first six years in office.

Speaking to The Financial Times, Whelan

has signalled he will press ahead with probes into Big Tech companies despite political pressure from Donald Trump.

He said that his work will not be influenced by “how much noise others make about what we do. When there is more noise, you have to be all the more vigilant about the fact that your cases are well grounded and defendable in court if that is where they would end up”.

In 1995, Anthony commenced his EU career when working as a legal secretary in secretary in the chambers of the Irish Advocate General Nial Fennelly at the Court of Justice of the EU in Luxemburg. Since 2000 he has climbed through the ranks of senior roles in the European Commission in Brussels. He led the legal service of the Commission in their high-profile case involving Microsoft in 2006, where the tech giant was fined a record €500 million over competition breaches.

Born in Moynoe in Scariff, he attended Dooglaun NS in Killanena which closed in 1974 before moving to Scariff NS when his mother Brid Whelan transferred to the teaching staff there. He attended the Cistercian College in Roscrea before studying Law at Trinity College for four years in the late 1980s. He taught public law in the Law School of Trinity College as the youngest ever lecturer in the famed college. He qualified as a barrister at Kings Inns. His father Jackie owned Leyland Garage in Scariff for many years which is now the site of Tom Collins Engineering.

Nicholas Levy and Basak Arslan at law firm Cleary Gottlieb said Whelan’s deep legal knowledge, administrative experience and close ties with von der Leyen position him well “to navigate the pressures on the Com-

mission to support the EU’s long-term economic and strategic ambitions while preserving competitive markets”. They described him as “highly intelligent, politically savvy, pragmatic, open-minded, and a strong believer in vigorous enforcement”.

Peter Power, head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland who was a classmate of Whelan’s in Cistercian College, Roscrea told The Irish Independent, “Anthony’s appointment shows that a career in the commission can lead to an extremely interesting position. Leading the competition direc-

torate is not just one of the most important jobs in the commission, but one of the most important in the whole of Europe”.

Catherine Day, a former secretary general of the European Commission, said that Whelan has got one of the toughest as well as one of the most important jobs in Brussels. “He has wide experience of several different policy areas and has worked in different cabinets, including most recently with president Ursula von der Leyen. It is great to see the exemplary work of a senior Irish official recognised in this decision,” she said.

Dinny wants Garda

who allegedly pepper sprayed boy (14) to be ‘reprimanded’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A WEST Clare councillor has called for a member of An Garda Síochána to be “reprimanded” for allegedly using pepper spray on a fourteen year old during the recent fuel protests.

Protesters in Co Cork who blocked off access to the country’s only oil reﬁnery in Whitegate have claimed that a fourteen year old boy was pepper sprayed by a Garda on duty earlier this month.

Four busloads of Gardaí were required to clear the protestors as their blockade had led to shortages of fuel at service stations across the country. According to Gardaí, the protestors were “creating a risk to State security”.

Speaking at a meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) was strong in his criticism of Gardaí. “The Government responded very badly especially Michael Martin who spoke very badly, I couldn’t support Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael with what went on, it was very bad when they were bringing in the army to sort out people who are paying their taxes and are keeping the country going”.

“The Garda who pepper sprayed the fourteen year old boy should be reprimanded,” the Cree elected representative maintained.

Price increases cannot be sustained by the public, Cllr Gould stressed while pointing out the Government were fortunate this crisis was not occurring in the

middle of winter. “This won’t go away, something has to be done”.

“It is alright for the people in the cities, they can hop on a train in Dublin, Limerick or Cork, Galway, we can’t in West Clare and there was no diesel to be got in West Clare for the weekend,” the ﬁrst elected of the Kilrush LEA councillors in 2024 added.

l West Clare Cllr Dinny Gould

l Anthony Whelan

Wynne’s debt to ex-employee won’t be paid off until 2028

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

Former independent Clare TD, Violet Anne Wynne won’t be able to pay off a residual debt to an ex-employee from an €11,500 Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) award until 2028.

At Ennis District Court, solicitor, Daragh Hassett said that payments continue to be made to his client, Fiona Smyth by Ms Wynne.

The amount outstanding from Ms Wynne to Ms Smyth now totals €4,700 and is being paid off a rate of €50 per week.

The case was listed for Judge Adrian Harris to monitor payments by Ms Wynne.

Mr Hassett told Judge Harris, “By and large, the payments are being made though there is the odd week where the payment is doubled up where there wasn’t a payment the week before”.

Mr Hassett said, “At this rate, it will be into 2028 before the balance is paid. The court order is for payments of €50 per week”.

Mr Hassett said that it was open to Ms Wynne to pay more per week.

In court last July, Judge Alec Gabbett directed that Ms Wynne pay €50 per week to Ms

Smyth in order to pay off a then residual €6,500 debt to her former constituency office worker from the €11,500 WRC award made against Ms Wynne.

In August 2024, the WRC ordered Ms Wynne to pay the €11,500 after finding that Ms Smyth was unfairly dismissed by Ms Wynne.

Ms Wynne who received a TD’s annual salary of €113,679 lost her seat in the November 2024 General Election in Clare receiving only 310 first prefer-

ence votes where she stood as an independent candidate in a vote collapse from her 2020 General Election vote when she topped the poll as a Sinn Féin candidate.

When the case was last before court in September, mother of six, Ms Wynne said that “it is not a case I was making payments whenever I felt like it. I was doing so with whatever little income that I had to hand”.

Ms Wynne told Judge Gabbett in September that now she

was in receipt of a weekly payment herself where she could now pay the €50 per week owed to Ms Smyth.

Asked what weekly payment she now receives, Ms Wynne told the court last September that it was €565 per week.

Solicitor for Ms Smyth, Daragh Hassett told the court last September that the Oireachtas has confirmed to him that the termination payment that would have been available to Ms Wynne on losing her seat would have been €18,946.50.

Ms Wynne confirmed that she did receive the €18,946 termination payment and paid out €5,000 of that to Ms Smyth earlier in 2025.

Asked by Judge Gabbett what happened to the then remaining €13,000 or so, Ms Wynne said, “This was the only income I had from the time the general election was called last November until a tax back payment I have received”.

Judge Harris adjourned the case to October 9th for further monitoring of the payments to be made by Ms Wynne.

Mr Hassett told Judge Harris that he would inform Ms Wynne of the adjourned court date.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE TD, Donna McGettigan (SF) has been discharged from hospital after becoming unwell in the Dáil.

Deputy McGettigan has been discharged from St James’ Hospital and is recovering at home in Shannon. The first-time TD was admitted on Tuesday evening and returned to Co Clare on Saturday. Shortly after voting no confidence in the Government, Donna became unwell and an ambulance was called to bring her to hospital. “Tuesday was a busy day in the Dáil with the no confidence vote. I was there and voted no confidence in the government who, in my opinion have left workers and families down. What also happened for me on Tuesday was that I was taken by ambulance to St James’ hospital very ill,” she recounted. She will take a week off to continue her recovery. Her constituency office in Shannon remains open, “I want to thank everyone for your patience during this time it is very much appreciated”. Politics was put to one side as Galway/ Roscommon TD, Martin Daly (FF), a qualified general practitioner was among the first to attend to Donna. She said, “I would like to thank TD Martin Daly who attended to me with care and compassion. The ushers in Leinster House, the Dublin Fire brigade who are also trained paramedics who brought me to the hospital. Staff in St James’ hospital who were fantastic and are under pressure, I witnessed the real pressure in A&E and yes I was on a chair like others. Doctors, nurses, staff, despite this always greeted people with a smile and gentleness and being away from home this mattered”.

l Former Independent and Sinn Féin TD Violet Anne Wynne at The Clare Echo’s live debate in 2024 at Hotel Woodstock

Shannon Airport’s inaugural fight to Frankfurt takes off this weekend

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

SHANNON AIRPORT’s new direct service to Frankfurt takes flight this Saturday for the first time.

Operated by Discover Airlines, a Lufthansa Group subsidiary, and running weekly until 24th October, this new route offers passengers a quick two-hour journey to one of Europe’s most connected hubs.

From there they can avail of extensive onward connections to destinations across Europe and beyond to Asia, Africa and the Americas.

Ahead of the first flight, Niall Kearns, Airport Director of Shannon Airport said: “The launch of new routes is always special, and we’re excited to welcome our first Frankfurt bound passengers through Shannon on Saturday.

“This service opens up opportunities for both business travel and inbound tourism.

“Germany is a key market for Ireland, and having a direct link from a major European hub to the Wild Atlantic Way is a real advantage, helping to bring more visitors into the region and supporting local

hotels, attractions, restaurants and businesses along the west coast”. 12pm is the departure for the Saturday service which allows for afternoon and evening transfers from Shannon.

The service features coordinated onward flight and rail connections through Frankfurt.

As well as being a global gateway, Frankfurt is one of the world’s most important financial hubs and considered to be Germany’s financial capital.

Defective concrete blocks confirmed at Shannon Garda Station

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Garda Station is currently undergoing detailed structural assessments due to the presence of defective concrete blocks

The development was confirmed this week to Fianna Fáil TD for Clare, Cathal Crowe, by the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Jack Chambers, that Shannon Garda Station is currently undergoing detailed structural assessments due to the presence of defective concrete blocks.

Crowe says remediation must be prioritised as structural assessments continue at key regional station.

Following a Parliamentary Question tabled by Deputy Crowe, the Minister revealed that the Office of

l Shannon Garda

Public Works (OPW) has been monitoring cracking in the station’s external walls since 2022.

A specialist structural engineer was formally appointed in November 2025 to determine the full extent

of the remediation required.

“While I am relieved to hear that the building is currently deemed safe for

our Gardaí and the public, the confirmation of defective blocks in a vital piece of state infrastructure like Shannon Garda Station is deeply concerning,” said Deputy Crowe.

“We have seen the devastation that defective concrete blocks have caused to homeowners across County Clare. It is now clear that our public buildings are not immune to this issue.

“It is essential that the state leads by example in identifying and fixing these structural flaws before they escalate.”

The Minister’s response confirmed that a detailed assessment and a list of potential remedial solutions are expected to be finalised by the end of May 2026.

“The experts have advised the OPW that they do not anticipate the need for ma-

jor structural works within the next five years, but we cannot afford to be complacent,” continued Deputy Crowe.

“Shannon is a major hub for our county, and the station serves a massive population as well as the international airport.

“We need a clear, funded plan for remediation the moment the engineer’s report is handed over this May.”

“I will be keeping a very close eye on this timeline. My priority is to ensure that the Gardaí working in Shannon have a safe, fit-for-purpose environment and that the taxpayer is not hit with even higher costs by delaying the necessary repairs.”

Station

PICTURED: Declan Power, Head of Aviation Development, Shannon Airport pictured with Niall Kearns, Airport Director of Shannon Airport, celebrating the launch of the new Discover Airlines Shannon to Frankfurt route which takes off this Saturday 25th April

€92k awarded to protect Kilfenora cathedral

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

SOME €92,271 has been awarded to a Clare project under the 2026 Community Monuments Fund.

St Fachtnan’s Cathedral, Kilfenora has been awarded €92,271, under a Stream 1 grant. Stream 1 grants of up to €100,000 are aimed at essential repairs and capital works for the conservation and repair of archaeological monuments.

Nationally, over €8 million in funding was awarded to 104 heritage projects.

Notes

These grants help owners and custodians of archaeological monuments to safeguard them into the future

DOMESTIC ABUSE AWARE-

NESS EVENT FOR WEST CLARE

On the 29th April 2026 Clare Local Area Network (CLAN) will hold an awareness event on domestic abuse supports hosted by West Clare Family Resource Centre, Kilrush from 12.30pm -2pm. This event will be twofold.

The agencies and services who are members of CLAN, will meet and greet the public, providing information of their services, and will be available to answer any ques-

and improve access.

First established in 2020, the Community Monuments Fund supports a range of

tions. outlining supports provided on issues relating to domestic abuse. There will be a wellness demonstration on skincare and make-up to add a little pampering to the occasion.

June Dillon, a local nurse in the area, Chair of the Safer Clare Campaign, member of the Clare Local Community Safety Partnership (CLCSP) and new CLAN member, felt there was a lack of awareness in West Clare of the work undertaken by CLAN. During her first CLAN meeting in Jan 2026, June proposed to invite her fellow CLAN members to hold an Awareness Event to shine a light on their work and supports

initiatives to conserve, maintain, protect and promote local monuments and historic sites. This investment safeguards monuments for the benefit of communities and the public. It does so by enabling conservation works and repairs as well as building resilience through protecting monuments from the effects of extreme weather and climate change. The scheme also helps facilitate public access and improvements to the presentation of local monuments.

offered to those impacted by domestic abuse.

Members of the public and professionals are invited to the CLAN event on Wednesday April 29th at the West Clare Family Resource Centre, O’Gorman St, Kilrush, V15 VK31. A demonstration on skincare and make-up will run from 12.30 to 2pm and will operate on a first come first serve basis, with limited places. People can attend the information room and meet CLAN members, and have a cup of tea, by just dropping in from 12:30 to 2pm. Entry is free and there is free street parking in the vicinity.

Kilfenora Trad festival returns

The Kilfenora Traditional Music Festival returns this weekend for its 19th installation.

The festival began in 2009 with the centenary of the Kilfenora Céilí Band, who by tradition play for an open-air céilí in Kilfenora Square on Sunday – one of the finest events in the Irish traditional music calendar. The festival is also noted for great concerts, CD launches and pub sessions.

Kilfenora Hall will be chock-full of award-winning talent at our Saturday night concert. TG4 Young Musicians of the Year and multiple All-Ireland winners Diarmuid Ó Meachair (accordion, melodeon, sean-nós singer) and fiddler Dónal McCague are joined by Clare’s concertina and piano whiz Jack Talty.

In support is Ireland’s leading female traditional singing trio Mna – Kate Daly, Theresa Garrihy and Kathleen Malone (Lynch) – all proud North Clare born.

Organisers told The Clare Echo, “As always we include a talented prize- winner from the Meitheal Summer School - this year it is Éabha Morrow on fiddle, from a well-known music family.” (Tickets are available online, from The Burren Visitor Centre or by calling 087 836 4780.)

On Friday night the fabulous Kilfenora Roadshow will feature (Vaughan’s Barn, 9pm - advance tickets available online) – a Culchie Cabaret with Irish traditional musicians, dancers and actors. Presenting a mixture of music, storytelling, dancing and comedy,

they tap into our collective innate divilment, with a special nod to the County Clare song archive collection.

On Saturday in the Burren Visitor Centre at 11.30 there is a top-class concertina recital with Tim Collins, Francis Cunningham and Aiden Quigney, followed at 3pm by the annual singing session in the main Exhibition hall, led by John Condon as Fear an Tí.

The opening concert in the Riches of Clare programme (free) is also on Saturday at 1pm in Kilfenora Cathedral, featuring Mayo flute player (and multiple award-winner) Jillian O’Malley, accompanied by two of North Clare’s finest young musicians – Aine O’Donoghue (concertina) and Rebecca Collins (fiddle) – with Nigel Stevens (guitar, vocals).

Sunday starts with an open intermediate session in Kilfenora Community Hall @11.30 (for all ages).

That is followed at 1pm (Nagles Bar) with a CD launch (An tUrlar Leice) by two distinguished flute players – Michael Hynes and Kirsten Allstaff – blending their respective North Clare and Scottish traditions.

The highlight on Sunday will be the openair céilí in the Square with the great Kilfenora Céilí Band, preceded by young North Clare musicians.

All the information on the festival can be found at https://kilfenoraclare.com/category/events/ with updates on the festival facebook page.

All-Ireland final for actors of Connolly NS

l An Cumann Scoildrámaíochta Féile Náisiúnta 2026: Go n-éirí an t-ádh le Scoil Náisiúnta Fiach Rua atá ag glacadh páirt i Craobh na h-Éireann i gCumann Scoil Drámaíochta Féile Náisiúnta 2026 in Áras na nÉalaíon Muileann gCearr ar an 24ú Aibreán 2026. Is é Só agus Anró an t-ainm atá ar an ndráma. Bain taitneamh as an ocáid!

Aran scores national journalism award

Rice College Ennis TY student Aran Buma has been recognised at the Young Journalist Ireland awards.

The Ennis native - who recently completed work experience with The Clare Echo - received second prize at the national ceremony in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre for his article ‘The Three Lions Vs England’, a poignant article about racism in soocer.

Congratulating the winners, Chair of NewsBrands Ireland, Sammi Bourke, said: “The aim of our Young Journalist Ireland programme is to spark a passion for journalism in the next generation...Importantly, the students learn how to think critically about the information they encounter every day.”

€18k for Tim Smythe Park playground

ALMOST €20,000 has been allocated towards the refurbishment of playground facilities at Tim Smythe Park.

This funding was announced on Wednesday by Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, who released the recipients of this year’s Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation, with a total of €600,000 awarded to 30 Local Authorities across the country.

The Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Recreation supports the work of Local Authorities in improving access to quality play and recreation facilities within their communities.

This can be through the refurbishment of existing facilities like Tim Smythe Park Playground or an upgrade of existing facilities or through the development of new ones.

Speaking on the announcement, Minister

of State and Clare TD,

said investing in spaces used by children will help contribute to their personal growth while maintaining a sense of community.

“This investment reﬂects the importance of public spaces for children and the government’s commitment to ensuring every child has the opportunity to play safely and exercise in these spaces”.

“Tim Smythe Park Playground plays an important role for the community in Ennis and todays funding will ensure existing facilities are improved to reﬂect the importance this space has for the community ”.

St Flannan’s students soar at NASA design contest

STUDENTS from St. Flannan’s College have achieved outstanding international success by winning second prize in the prestigious NSS/NASA Ames Gerard K. O’Neill Space Settlement Design Contest 2026. Their award-winning project, Fómhar, was developed in collaboration with students from St. Dominic’s College, Dublin, and was recognised in a year when more than 29,000 students submitted over 4,900 entries from 31 countries.

The team’s project, Fómhar the Irish word for “harvest” proposed a permanent human space settlement for up to 10,000 people. The students designed a rotating torus-shaped habitat located in the Jupiter-Callisto (moon of Jupiter) system, with a major focus on how future space communities could live safely, generate power, produce food, and build harvest systems civilisation far Earth. The project proposed the settlement as a one-g, gravity habitat with residential villages, transport systems, central hubs, agricultural systems, industrial areas, and advanced life-support infrastructure.

The students examined why Callisto, one of Jupiter’s moons, could be a practical base for long-term human activity, with it’s low radiation

environment and useful natural resources. Their design included asteroid mining for construction materials, a space elevator linking Cal-

listo to an orbital industrial station, and even the possible use of helium-3 fusion to provide power for the settlement. The project also placed em-

phasis on food production and self-sufficiency, which is reflected in its name. The Fómhar design included controlled-environment agricul-

ture, vertical farming, water recycling, duckweed-based purification systems, oxygen production through plant growth, and the use of bio-

technology to help sustain life in deep space.

The St Flannan’s College students named in the project are Alyah Maguire, Emma Mahoney, Ben Zarza-De Courcey and Domas Kasparavicius. Their success is a remarkable achievement for the school, and for Clare, particularly given the number of entries and international standard.

“This success is especially significant at a time when global interest in space exploration is rising sharply with the Artemis missions, NASA’s programme to return humans to the Moon and prepare for deeper space exploration.”

The students are now hoping to present their project at the International Space Development Conference (ISDC) 2026 in McLean, Virginia, from June 4-7, where the global space community will gather. Organised by the National Space Society, the conference brings together astronauts, researchers, engineers, educators and students from around the world.

To make that possible, the students will need to fundraise for travel, accommodation and conference costs.

Scan the QR Code to support the team.

l The team comprising Slyah Maguire, Emma Mahoney, Ben Zarza-De Courcey and Domas Kasparavicius

Timmy Dooley (FF)

Marie always remembers Catherine with release of new children’s book

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

NEWMARKET-ON-FER -

GUS native and CEO of Galway company Platform 94, Marie Donnellan has released a children’s book in memory of her late daughter, Catherine.

‘Always’ was released earlier this month with all proceeds being donated to HopeSpace. The book was officially launched at a private event in Galway on Friday by RTÉ broadcaster, Miriam O’Callaghan at The Druid Theatre.

Written and illustrated by Marie with the assistance of her two young children, Rose and JJ who helped to keep the memory of their sister Catherine present in their lives and carry her strength with them as they grow.

one to one in person listening support service for children and families experiencing grief.

CEO of the Galway innovation hub, Platform 94 since March 2024, Marie spoke of the huge support she has received in releasing her first book. “This book has been made possible through an incredible level of support from those around me. I want to thank my family, friends, colleagues and everyone that has played a part in the journey. I am deeply proud to publish this book and am hopeful that it offers an uplifting and empowering message that resonates widely”.

right time to try do “something nice” for other people. “It is written as a tribute as Catherine but the idea is that anyone who lost anyone in their family will find useful, it is an empowering book, it is not about grief”.

Of the launch night, Marie remarked, “the energy and feeling of support and encouragement in the room was unlike anything I have ever experienced. It was a magical night that will stay with me forever”.

Always follows a young bear through a number of life milestones, from early childhood through to adulthood, accompa-

Intended to resonate widely, the story will empower families navigating the loss of someone in their life while remaining an engaging and accessible story for any child.

nied throughout by a blue butterfly. The butterfly symbolises the ongoing presence of someone no longer physically here, offering an uplifting and empowering way to help children reinforce a sense of

connection, strength and support.

Self-published by Marie as a charity project, the entire proceeds from Always will be donated to children’s bereavement charity HopeSpace a free

Marie said the response to the release of the book has been “incredible”.

Publishing the book had been in her mind for some time and following Catherine’s inquest last year Marie felt it would be the

Breda Fallon, Co-founder and Director of HopeSpace said, “This is a powerful and thoughtfully developed book that will make a real difference. It provides a simple and impactful way to approach conversations around grief, offering support to children navigating complex emotions”.

Always can be purchased here - https://alwayschildrensbook.com/

First Division 1 Féile win for St Colman’s Camogie Club since 1993

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

St Colman’s Camogie Club is celebrating a major success following their victory in the Division One Jackie Brien Cup at the County Féile na nGael Final on Monday evening.

It marks a memorable week for the club, as the team battled through a demanding series of matches to claim the title.

After a hard-fought semi-final win over Turloughmore, the girls delivered another impressive performance in the final against Shamrocks, showing great determination, skill, and composure throughout.

This achievement is particularly significant as it represents the club’s first Division 1 Féile title since 1993, highlighting the progress and dedication within the club in recent years.

A lovely moment on the night summed up the spirit of the team, when manager Cilla Fahey was asked by an official which of the players were her own. Without hesitation, she replied, “They all are” — a reflection of the care and genuine connection

within the team.

The club would like to pay tribute to the players for their commitment and teamwork, as well as to Cilla Fahey and her coaching team of Seamus Fahey, Pat Diviney, Colman Cooley, Louise Fogarty, Louise Keehan and Lorraine Diviney for their tireless work and support.

Thanks are also extended to team sponsors ICS Medical, Irish Eco Homes and McAllen Agri & Quarries, to our parish hurling clubs, Gort, Beagh & Kilbeacanty for facilitating us, and to the many supporters and parents whose encouragement and support played a vital role throughout the week.

The players’ performances, attitude, and resilience have been a credit to their club and community, making it a Féile to remember for St Colman’s. Roll on the national competition!

l (Back Row) Eimear Fogarty, Alisha Diviney, Aisling Stanford, Rachel Kelly, Isla Fair- weather,Lauren O’Flaherty, Grace Farrell, Éabha Keehan, Heloisa Gomes Coata, Caitlín McGuane

(Front Row): Aisling Moran, Roisín Fogarty, Anna Cooley, Daisy McDonald, Rachel Kenny (Captain), Abigail Finn, Aoife Gallagher, Nicole Cummins, Sally Fahey, Sara McAllen

Photo by Joe Keane

l Marie Donnellan

Photo by Adrian Megahey

Breakthrough launches summer dance & musical theatre camps 2026

BREAKTHROUGH Dance

Company has been at the heart of the local community for over 17 years, providing a welcoming and inspiring space for children and young people to grow in conﬁdence, creativity and performance.

The studio is led by founder and director Laura Jane Allis, whose passion for dance and dedication to her students has shaped BreakThrough Dance Company into what it is today.

Supported by a team of experienced and encouraging teachers, the studio prides itself on creating a positive and nurturing environment.

Based in Quin Road Business Park, the studio offers a wide range of classes for all ages and abilities, from beginner level right through to advanced dance and musical theatre.

With a strong focus on encouragement, inclusivity and enjoyment, BreakThrough Dance Company has become a much loved part of life for many families across Clare.

Many students begin their journey in the studio from a

very young age and continue right through their teenage years, building not only their skills but lifelong friendships and conﬁdence along the way.

It’s a testament to the environment created within the studio that so many students grow up as part of the BreakThrough community.

Over the years, past students have gone on to pursue exciting opportunities within the industry, both in Ireland and internationally, while others carry the conﬁdence and skills they’ve gained into all aspects of their lives, with some even moving into teaching roles within the studio.

Each year, students take to the stage in their highly anticipated annual shows in Glór, showcasing not only their talent but also the dedication and passion that goes into every class.

It’s this combination of hard work, creativity and community spirit that truly sets BreakThrough apart.

This summer, BreakThrough Dance Company is excited to launch its Summer

Dance & Musical Theatre Camps 2026, offering an unforgettable experience for children who love to move, perform and build conﬁdence.

From energetic dance routines to musical theatre and creative activities, the camps are designed to suit all levels, whether your child is new to dance or already loves being on stage.

Early Bird offer available on bookings made before May 1st, with spaces limited and early booking strongly recommended.

For more information or to book, please email: breakthroughdancestudios@gmail. com

For a closer look at life at the studio, including classes, performances and upcoming events, follow Breakthrough Dance Company on social media.

Merciful heart in a wounded world

Spreading the word of positivity: Thought for the week

RONAN SCULLY

AFEW Sundays before last, we stood before the mystery of the Merciful Sacred Heart on Divine Mercy Sunday and once again we were invited into the deepest truth of the Christian life, that God is mercy. Not a distant mercy. Not a selective mercy. But an infinite, overflowing, relentless mercy.

The Latin misericordia, ‘miseria and cor’, reminds us that mercy is a heart that enters misery. It does not avoid suffering. It does not pass by on the other side. It bends low. It stays. It feels. It acts. Saint Augustine called it “heartfelt sympathy for another’s distress,” but in Christ it becomes something even greater, love that suffers with, and love that refuses to abandon. “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36). And yet, as we look at our world today, we must admit that this command feels more urgent than ever.

A CRY THAT MUST NOT FADE I stand in unity with the Church’s continuing call for peace, echoing the voice of the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, and the prophetic words of his predecessors when it says, “No more war.” As innocent people are killed and displaced, as families are torn apart, as futures are destroyed before they even begin, we are

confronted with a truth we cannot escape, that the human cost of war is incalculable. And silence is not an option. As Christians and as people of conscience, we are called to keep our eyes open to suffering, not close them. To name injustice, not ignore it. To pray, yes but also to become instruments of peace. We are one human family. Wounded. Beautiful. And in desperate need of mercy. MERCY MUST BECOME ACTION

It is not enough to speak beautifully about mercy. We must become it. In a world fractured by division, we are called to be reconcilers. In a world hardened by judgment, we are called to be gentle and encouraging. In a world wounded by violence, we are called to be peace. “Let us not love in word or speech, but in deed and truth” (1 John 3:18). Mercy means, forgiving when it is costly, loving when it is inconvenient, staying when it would be easier to walk away, giving when it hurts, listening when we would rather speak, seeing Christ in those we would rather avoid. And perhaps most difficult of all, believing that we ourselves are still loved.

A HEART ON FIRE

Saint Isaac of Nineveh once wrote that a merciful heart is one that burns with compassion for all creation, even for those who cause harm, even for enemies, even for those who seem far from redemption. A heart that cannot bear indifference. A heart that weeps for the world. A heart that prays even when

it does not understand. A heart that acts even when it feels small. This is the heart of Christ. And it is the heart we are invited to receive.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, let me give you a serious invitation to not let mercy remain an idea. Let it become your decision. Ask yourself honestly: Where have I been withholding forgiveness? Where have I grown indifferent to suffering?

Who in my life needs my patience, not my judgment? What small act of love have I been postponing? And then do not postpone it again. Go and do it. Because someone’s healing may be waiting on your mercy. Let me leave you with a prayer I wrote, called, “A Prayer for a Wounded World.” - “Lord Jesus, Prince of Peace, look upon our fractured world with mercy. Where there is war, sow peace. Where there is hatred, sow love. Where there is despair, sow hope. Make our hearts like Yours, not hardened by fear, not closed by judgment, but open to mercy. Teach us to see every person as our brother and sister, formed in Your image and loved beyond measure. Make us instruments of Your peace, builders of reconciliation, bearers of mercy in a wounded world. Jesus, I trust in You. Because in the end, the question will not be how much we achieved, but how much we loved. And love…when it becomes mercy…becomes the very presence of God in the world. And even the smallest act of mercy, may echo forever. Amen.”

BEIDH céilí mór trí Ghaeilge i dTuath Ó gConaíle san oíche amárach (Dé hAoine an 24ú lá d’Aibreán)!

Is iad Club Iománaíochta Thuath Ó gConaíle atá ag eagrú an imeacht a thosóidh ag 8.15pm, ag halla an chlub. Is iad Terence O’Reilly, John Canny, agus Pat O’Connor a bhéas i mbun cheoil, agus is í Róisín Garvey a bhéas ina bean a’ tí. Fáilte roimh chuile dhuine! Hup!

l Beidh céilÍ trí Ghaeilge ar siúil in oirthear San oíche amárach

There’ll be a céilí mór tomorrow night in Ogonnelloe (Friday the 24th of April)! The event organised by Club Iománaíochta Thuath Ó gConaíle will feature music from Terence O’Reilly, John Canny, agus Pat O’Connor, with Róisín Garvey as bean a’ tí. 8.15pm. Everyone is welcome! Hup!

MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

Keep 2026 Fire Free

Scariff shines on Fix It Fashion catwalk

Students from Scariff Community College were among seven national finalists selected for the 2026 An Taisce Green-Schools Let’s Fix Fashion catwalk finale, held at Brú Ború Heritage Centre in Cashel, Co. Tipperary.

Let’s Fix Fashion is a national Green-Schools initiative that raises awareness among secondary school students about the environmental impact of fast fashion and encourages practical action through upcycling, reuse, and circular fashion.

runway, modelling their own sustainable creations while also showcasing the school’s wider efforts to promote circular fashion and environmental awareness.

upcycling event.

The design featured reworked jeans with triangular godets inserted into the outer seams to create a dramatic silhouette, while the bodice was constructed from an additional pair of jeans. Leftover fabric was cleverly repurposed into a matching bag, hairband and decorative floral details.

Adding to the occasion, coordinating teacher Ms Curtain also embraced the theme of sustainable fashion by wearing a preloved black dress from a school swap, paired with a vintage fur coat sourced from the Hibernian Antiques, Art and Vintage Market at Limerick Racecourse.

This year, more than 50 secondary schools across Ireland took part in the programme, with seven schools reaching the final showcase after completing a series of challenges including documentary screenings, communication takeovers, upcycling projects, circular economy design thinking, and organising school swap shops. Schools in County Clare were invited to participate through support from Clare County Council.

textile reuse.

Students were challenged to create looks for less than €30 using charity shop finds or by transforming old and

Scariff Community College earned recognition as one of the top finalists for both its innovative catwalk designs and its outstanding commitment to sustainability throughout the school year. A total of 12 students from the school took to the

Beyond the catwalk, the school was highly commended for its broad range of activities including documentary screenings, circular design sketching, upcycling workshops, poster campaigns, and the organisation of multiple clothes swap and pop-up shops. Students also raised an impressive €12,000 towards the development of a circular astroturf project, further demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and climate action within the school community.

Among the standout designs, Josephine Garnsworthy impressed judges with an intricately crafted upcycled denim ensemble created from donated items sourced through SVP for a school

Marcel Pelser also presented a strong denim look, combining an upcycled jacket sourced from SVP with second-hand jeans from KMI, highlighting the versatility and durability of reused materials. Sophie Mooney brought a sporty edge to the runway with a GAA-inspired outfit featuring GAA shorts paired with a Clare half-zip and jersey, all sourced from the school’s own GAA swap shop, demonstrating how everyday sportswear can be reused in creative and stylish ways.

The catwalk finale marked the culmination of five virtual events held throughout the school year, covering themes such as the impact of fast fashion, culture and identity, upcycling, circular economy, and clothes sharing initiatives.

Students also took part in workshops, swap shops, mend and repair stations, and documentary screenings including Losing the Thread: The True Cost of Fast Fashion, helping to build awareness and practical skills around sustainable living.

l Students from Scariff at the Fix Fashion ﬁnale

by Stuart Holly news@clareecho.ie

Crowds to descend on Clare Garden Festival

THE Clare Garden Festival takes place this Sunday. The Clare Echo is proud media partner of the eventhere we bring you an ‘all you need to know’ guide ahead of the big day.

Upon entering the gates at Ennis showgrounds from 11am on Sunday, April 26, visitors will be greeted by quality plant and food exhibitors as part of the Great Garden & Food Fair featuring stalls from all over Ireland –over 75 stalls of which 17 new traders this year!

There will be Specialist Nurseries, Garden Centres, Garden & Environmental Charities, Crafts stalls, Tunnel & Tool Providers, Visitor Gardens, and Artisan Food stalls showing and selling their wares on the day.

From 12pm the talks' series with expert gardeners will commence from the main stage in the arena featuring nine experts, including master organic gardener Jim Cronin, stage host and organic gardener Jo Newton, Bunratty Castle gardener Sinead Moloney, Carl Wright of Caher Bridge Garden, retired organic grower Jason Horner, forager Olwyn Williams, Fergal Smith of Moy Hill Farm, Jason McCormack of Foodtree Nursery, Gert Stam and Hayley Connelly of Caherhurley Nursery.

The lovely display of Pop-Up Gardens – 3x3m each – will also return this year with new participants. Quin Tidy Towns, students from Colaiste

Throughout the day visitors can try their hand atarchery with the Archers of Ennis and other activities for young and older, including sowing a seed, traditional crafts, face painting, beekeeping, kids rides and forest school.

For the first time this year, Badger & Blackbird forest school is joining the festival with outdoor activities for a wholesome fun experience. The afternoon will see live music with the return of the popular The FakeMcCoys and Los Paddys in the courtyard.

After 3.30pm, the winners of the Gardener's Raffle in aid of Clare Crusaders will be announced.

Ennis Showgrounds features a huge indoor arena as well as outdoor spaces and plenty of parking, conveniently located just off the M18 and in walking distance of the county town of Ennis. In addition to the huge variety of stalls - of which over 30 are under cover - much fun for children and young gardeners is guaranteed including outdoor and crafts workshops, face painting, small children’s rides, archery and a fantastic food offering with options for everyone.

Muire and Teach Spraoi Nature Kindergarden (last year’s pictured above) are each assembling a garden display. In addition, new gardens from Blossoms On The Go garden centre and Colourful Creations Garden Centre will feature again.

“Clare Garden Festival has become part of the fibre of Ennis, returning to us every year reliably in April. I always love the small gardens and this year I particularly look forward to the one from Colaiste Muire which I am told is all about showing how and where we grow in Ennis and Clare,” said Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Mary Howard. She continued, “The festival has fantastic plants and stallholders coming from all over Ireland and visitors as well as groups like Tidy towns, find it useful to bring something special to their gardens.”

Joe Lillis, Chairman of Clare Agricultural Show Society said: “The Showgrounds is a fantastic venue to showcase the huge variety of stalls and entertainment that the Garden Festival offers. As part of this we are this year also including much fun for children and young gardeners including facepainting, small children’s rides, forest school, archery and much to see and discover at the many stalls.” He continued, “Festival manager Carmen Cronin is again bringing stalls from every corner of Ireland. We hope that visitors will stay with us the whole Sunday enjoying tasty and healthy lunch options and making use of our free car parking.”

Tickets to the festival will be available on the gate at Ennis Showgrounds on Sunday, 26th April, with adult admission of €9 and children under 16 go free when under supervision of an adult and parking is free-of-charge. Clare Garden Festival is proudly supported by Bord Bia, Blossoms on the Go Garden Centre, Mr Binman, Caherhurley Nursery, Clare County council, Clare Topsoil, Colourful Creations Garden centre, Deerpark Timber, Ennis Tidy Towns, Ennis Municipal District, IOMST, Fruit Hill Farm organic farm and garden supplies and Gee-up Organic soil fertilizer. For regular updates see the festival Facebook and Instagram feed and visitor information and full festival details are available from www.claregardenfestival.com.

l Clare Echo editor Stuart Holly with Cllr Mary Howard (FG), Mayor of Ennis MD, Carmen Cronin, organiser of Clare Garden Festival, and Ian Hassett of Deerpark Timber at the festival launch

Where homes - and gardens - grow communty

A HOME is more than four walls and a roof. It’s where everyday life unfolds, where family moments are shared, and where a sense of belonging takes root.

For many people across Clare, the home also extends beyond the front door — into gardens, outdoor spaces, and places where neighbours meet, children play, and time slows down.

From towns and villages to rural communities, homes and gardens remain at the heart of how we live. They reﬂect who we are, how we care for our surroundings, and how connected we feel to our community.

That’s something local credit unions understand particularly well.

For generations, credit unions in Clare have supported members at every stage of their home journey. That might mean sav-

ing for a ﬁrst home, extending a growing family house, restoring an older property, or investing in practical improvements — from insulation and energy upgrades to making outdoor spaces safer, more usable, and more enjoyable.

Gardens, like homes, evolve over time. They can become places for family gatherings, quiet retreats, or safe spaces for children to grow.

Whether it’s upgrading fencing, creating accessible pathways, adding a home ofﬁce or garden room, or simply improving energy efﬁciency to make homes warmer and more comfortable, many of these projects start with a simple idea and grow from there.

What makes Clare credit unions different is their local, people-ﬁrst approach. Decisions are made locally, by people who understand

the realities of housing stock in Clare, local planning considerations, and the practical challenges faced by households today.

Members can have real conversations about their plans, ask questions, and receive clear, straightforward guidance — without pressure or jargon.

As housing and lifestyle needs continue to change, credit unions are adapting alongside their members. Flexible home improvement loans, support for retroﬁtting and energy efﬁciency projects, and easyto-use digital services sit alongside the friendly, personal service that local credit unions are known for.

At their core, credit unions exist to help members build secure, sustainable futures. Supporting well-loved homes and liveable outdoor spac-

es strengthens families, neighbourhoods, and communities — and that has always been central to the credit union ethos.

When people choose a credit union, they’re choosing a ﬁnancial partner that puts people before profit and community before scale. And when it comes to making a house — and garden — truly feel like home, having the right local support can make all the difference.

Clare Credit Unions is a collaborative of Derg, Ennistymon, Kilrush, and St. Francis Credit Unions, with 15 ofﬁces across the county, 80 local staff, a combined loan book of over €130 million, and more than 72,000 members. This means wherever you are in Clare, there is a local Credit Union nearby.

www.clarecreditunions.ie

l Derg Credit Union, which is part of the Clare Credit Union network of 15 ofﬁces and 80 staff across Clare

Your complete guide to an organised Home...

WHETHER it’s an overflowing hot press or a larder, we’ve all experienced the frustration of clutter.

Summer is a great time to get on top of your home maintenance as the weather frees us to get through laundry at a rapid pace and give the house a thorough airing.

In order to make room for the things that matter this summer (beach time), we’re diving headfirst into home organisation — for the benefit of our space and our health. For many, cleaning one’s space supplies a significant emotional health benefit — one that’s uniquely tied to a sense of control over one’s environment.

We’re going room by room, decluttering so your home becomes a well-oiled machine.Here are 6 pro tips to transform your home into a calm space.

1. CREATE A QUICK WIN:

Procrastination is the enemy so start with a small win if you are overwhelmed by the tasks. Tackle one limited area like the fridge and see it through to completion. Start by emptying all food from the fridge. It’s a good idea to time a deep clean of the fridge just before the

weekly shop, when there will be less food in the fridge. Enlist a helper who can wash the shelves while you focus on wiping down the inside of the fridge. Make up a solution of Milton Sterilising Fluid with cold water, and use this to wipe down the interior with a clean cloth. A cotton bud is a handy tool for getting old food out of the grooves on the sides of the fridge interior.

Dry the inside of the fridge thoroughly using paper towels. Invest in some fridge organisers (ideally glass so you see the contents). A well-organised fridge not only looks good, it can save you money by reducing food waste and help you to make healthier choices.

On your upper shelves, place food that doesn’t require cooking, use middle shelves for dairy produce and lower shelves for raw meat and ﬁsh. Vegetables, salads and fruit should be stored in the salad drawer.

PRO TIP: Line your salad drawer with a few sheets of kitchen paper absorbs the condensation that vegetables generate as they chill. Excess moisture can make your fresh foods wilt (AND it keeps your fridge cleaner).

2. TACKLE YOUR LARDER

Store everything in airtight glass jars and containers. Choose jar sizes based on how often you use an ingredient, so that there’s never too much air sitting inside, ensuring that they stay fresh. Dry pasta usually require very large containers, whereas small jars are great for seeds and nuts.

PRO TIP: Label everything: There’s something very calming about being organised; it makes navigating the

Unlike living room shelving which can be styled and then left alone, kitchen shelving is constantly in use which makes it more likely to become cluttered. Open shelving does have its place in the kitchen if you are looking to add some personality. You can decorate open shelving with art and plants, or a lamp.

4. THE THREE BOX METHOD

Place 3 boxes (marked

Put Away, Give Away, Throw Away) and place a set upstairs and downstairs. Put them in a space you pass by frequently – this may be in your bedroom, kitchen, or living room – and start putting items into a category as and when you use them, or whenever you have some energy to tackle a small portion of a room. This allows you to declutter your home at your own pace.

5. SHOP FOR STORAGE

Assess room by room what storage needs you have and go storage shopping. Starting with your utility, transfer your detergent pods and other laundry essentials into something a little prettier than the original packaging, like a glass container. Not only is it a more stylish solution, but they’ll be out and ready to use whenever you need them. Keep your cleaning supplies organised by installing a wall-mounted wire rack to hang brushes and mops, then stash sprays in a caddy you can tote when you clean. Remember to use your vertical spaces, particularly in the garage to get things off the ﬂoor and visible and within

easy reach. Invest in bins, baskets, storage boxes and ﬁle folders.

PRO TIP: Order a TruWASH Back to School Cleaning Bundle (truwash. co.uk) which contains cleaning cloths, window spray, ﬂoor cleaner as well as reﬁlls so you are completely set up for a cleaning spree. They’re also natural and non-toxic and super effective.

6. ADHERE TO THE “ONE IN ONE OUT RULE”

Once you have decluttered, avoid accumulating more stuff by removing one item every time you purchase something new. For example, discard 5 old towels if you buy 5 new towels. You won’t accumulate more than you need when following this simple rule - on the contrary, you will stay balanced as you slowly adapt to a more sustainable lifestyle. No one needs 10 sets of sheets for a bed so this forces us to be more intentional and keep track of our buying habits and only replace when necessary. You’ll be a lot more thoughtful about what deserves to be given space in your home.

kitchen much easer!

3. AVOID OPEN SHELVING

McKeoghs still beating in heart of Ballina-Killaloe

If you’ve spent any time in the twin towns of Ballina and Killaloe, you’ll know that McKeoghs is a name woven into the fabric of the place.

Since 1860, through six generations of the McKeogh family, this business has stood as a landmark of reliability. Always serving as a hardware store, it once also stood as a bakery, supplying bread to families throughout the west.

Today, under the guidance of Noel and Rosemarie McKeogh and their daughter Chiara, McKeoghs continue to prove that in a consumer-driven economy, the value of local expertise never goes out of style.

At the centre of the business is manager Freddy McInerney. A “Clare man through and through” and resident of Bunratty, Freddy has spent 21 years at McKeoghs. He heads up a team that brings over a century of combined experience to the counter.

“It’s not like walking into a place where nobody knows your name. We’re there to help you out, we’re on hand to give advice and help customers carry their purchase out to the car,” Freddy tells The Clare Echo

Freddy describes the business as a balance between the “heavy” and the “soft” sides of home building and decor.

On the heavy side, you’ll find Thomas and Nick — men who understand the products they’re selling. Thomas, a former construction foreman, and Nick, a former plumber, provide the kind of practical insight that saves a DIYer hours of frustration. Across the yard, Chiara’s husband Kieran Keeney, Yard Manager, coordinates the transport and yard operations with his valued staff, Mike, Ollie, Declan & Daniel.

ADVICE

Transitioning to the “soft” side, Grace, Jackie, and Chiara lead the interiors and decor departments. “It’s like having interior designers under the roof,” Freddy says. “Whether you’re looking for the right shade of paint or advice on garden furniture, the girls have that eye for detail that turns a house into a home.”

The scale of the 11,000-squarefoot shop is surprising given its town-centre location. Spread over three floors, it offers a logical journey through the life of a project: The Lower Floor, a haven for homewares, soft furnishings, and a comprehensive paint section. The Middle Floor; the traditional heartbeat of the store, stocked with general hardware; and the Upper Floor; Home to high-end showrooms.

Here, customers can browse small and large electrical appliances, or walk through the floors and doors gallery. There’s even a dedicated tile and bathroom showroom to help visualize a total renovation.

The last few years have tested the resilience of Ballina-Killaloe. Between the lockdowns and the significant disruption of the new bridge construction, getting around wasn’t always easy. But Freddy sees the silver lining.

“The new bridge has been a huge addition,” he explains. “The traffic congestion that used to back up

for miles is gone. It’s made the villages accessible again, not just for locals, but for people coming from Scarriff, Tulla, and right across our hinterland” which Freddy notes encompasses many parts of Clare, Tipperary and Limerick.

HUB

Freddy is quick to point out that a visit to McKeoghs is often part of a wider day out. There are destination shops like Joanne’s boutique nearby, Brogan’s Pharmacy & Opticians, and local favourites like Pitstop, The Wooden Spoon, Flanagans on the Weir or Goosers. New additions like

Brush & Blush and ASecure mean the town has regained its status as a vibrant hub. “It’s much nicer than the Lakes of Killarney if you ask me, you can do a full loop of Lough Derg, it’s fabulous.”

As the season turns to gardening and outdoor living, the yard at McKeoghs is filling with composite decking, exterior porcelain paving, and everything needed to make the most of the Irish summer. “People are getting ready to paint outside so lots of people are exploring our Dulex Weathershield and Colourtrend exterior paints range. The minute you get fine weather the exterior takes off.”

For Freddy and the McKeogh family, the most important ingredient is a sense of community and personal service.

“I’d just like to thank our customers for supporting us through thick and thin,” Freddy says.

“It would have been easy for people to avoid the village when the bridge construction was at its peak, but they stuck with us. In return, we try to give back—whether that’s providing free parking in the centre of town or just making sure we’re always here to give the best advice as fast as we can.”

10 surprising things you didn't know about your garden...

GARDENING is not a straightforward practice — it takes skill, dedication, and a little luck to grow flowers and veggies. But while certain facts about gardens are perplexing, some are just plain fun. Read on for this random assortment of garden facts:

1. A SUNFLOWER IS NOT JUST ONE FLOWER

Both the fuzzy brown center and the classic yellow petals are actually 1,000-2,000 individual flowers, held together on a single stalk.

2. MORE MICROORGANISMS IN TEASPOON OF SOIL THAN PEOPLE ON EARTH

It’s aliiiiive! That fact might make you itchy, but microbes are important for keeping your soil full of nutrients.

3. PLANTS REALLY DO RESPOND TO SOUND

Talking to plants to help them grow is a well-known old wives’ tale, but studies have shown vibration (like music, or perhaps even the sweet sound of your voice) can affect plant growth.

Plus, the Myth Busters (in a not-so-scientiﬁc study), compared a silent greenhouse to one where they piped in a voice soundtrack, and found that plants in the latter grew more.

4. BUTTERFLIES MAY BE MORE ATTRACTED TO YOUR WEEDS THAN FLOWERS

Colorful blooms aren’t the chief reason these insects love your garden – it’s more about the fragrance and nectar.

According to the Smithsonian Institute, new cultivars of popular flowers have been bred for enhanced color and size, but have often lost their fragrance in the process. So everyday weeds, like dandelions, might actually be the most appealing things in your yard to butterflies (they hate pesticides, too).

5. A LITTLE BAKING SODA CAN HELP YOU GROW SWEETER TOMATOES

A regular sprinkling of this kitchen staple into your plant’s soil can help reduce acidity,

which sweetens up your crop.

6. SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE FRUITS ARE ACTUALLY IN THE ROSE FAMILY

Apples, pears, peaches, cherries, raspberries, strawberries, and more are rosaceae, making them cousins to the long-stemmed Valentine’s Day variety.

7. THE RIGHT ORCHID COMBINATION CAN SMELL LIKE YOUR FAVORITE DESSERT

Did you know that the vanilla bean comes from a orchid varietal? And it’s not the only sweet-smelling kind. And that’s not all: The cymbidium Golden Elf smells lemony, and the phalaenopsis violacea has a cinnamon scent.

8. YOU CAN CHANGE HYDRANGEA’S COLOR

A more alkaline soil will result in pinker blooms, while more acidity will produce blue blooms. To coax your plant to the blue side, add more organic matter to your soil, like egg shells and coffee grounds (though the acidity in used coffee grounds can vary greatly, so you might try a high-acid fertilizer, too).

The change won’t happen overnight, but eventually you should succeed in manipulating your soil’s pH level.

9. DEER CAN JUMP EIGHT FEET HIGH

This might only apply to you if you’re living in rural parts of East Clare. Deer might require a running start to reach such heights, but a tiny fence often isn’t enough to keep these garden nibblers away. Try a taller one, plant thorny or pungent plants as a natural barrier, or scare them off with lights or wind chimes.

10. YOU DON’T NEED TO BE A COMPOSTER

Call it cheating, but applying used coffee grounds, eggshells, chopped-up banana peels, and other organic matter directly to your soil (no composting required) can offer plants nutrients as they decompose.

For already-growing beds, scatter and bury the items within the ﬁrst few inches of soil.

Nearly half a century of O’Gorman Tarmacadam

FOR almost 45 years, O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam has been a trusted name in Clare and beyond.

The two O’Gorman brothers, PJ and Donal, estbalished their family business in 1982. Since then, O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam has rapidly grown and now covers County Clare, North Tipperary, North Limerick and South Galway.

Now run by a new generation of brothers, Conor and Don O’Gorman, the latter spills the secrets to success when running a family-owned business.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he said, “Running any sort of successful family business is all dependent on one thing in my opinion and that’s the people. If you treat them fairly, you’ll always have good people.

He continues, “We do very good, high-quality work, a lot of our work is repeat business.”

Since Conor and Don took over the business in 2014, O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam has continued to expand its services, workforce, and equipment.

The family-run business began using traditional methods of laying tarmacadam using rakes, shovels and wheelbarrows. As technology has progressed, so too have the companies’ work practices. In place of rakes, shovels and wheelbarrows, a big investment in specialist tar lay-

ing machinery has taken the business to another level.

Don explained to The Clare Echo that he and his brother are committed to ensuring that the business is using the most up-to-date technology available. He notes that their new Vogele tar paver machine “is the best one, it’s like the Mercedes or the BMW of tar paving machines”.

“New plant and equipment is great for the morale of the team,” he adds. “Our team are very proud of our plant and equipment and love maintaining it.”

DRAINAGE DESIGN

A name well established in County Clare for delivering high quality tarmacadam for over 40 years,

O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam continues to build on its strong reputation.

Don now brings over two decades of civil engineering experience to the family business and is fully committed to its day-to-day operations. His expertise enhances the overall service offering, particularly in drainage design and site preparation ensuring projects are properly planned in advance of the tarmac team, where preparation is key to long-lasting results.

With Don now focused full-time on the business, additional support is being provided across both design and pricing. This is helping to im-

prove turnaround times and address previous delays, ensuring a more efficient and responsive service for all clients.

O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam started its journey paving driveways for domestic privately owned houses. As the company has grown so has their projects. They have now expanded to include industrial and commercial projects.

Over the years, O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam has delivered projects across a wide range of sectors, from education to large-scale infrastructure. The company has been involved in major developments such as the Adare Bypass and the Limerick to Foynes railway line, demonstrating its capability on significant

national projects.

Closer to home, works have been completed for well-known locations including Dromoland Castle, facilities at Shannon Airport, and within Eli Lilly, along with ongoing projects for local the local community organisations.

Despite this growth, O’Gorman’s Tarmacadam remains fully committed to delivering high-quality domestic and private projects across Limerick, Clare, and Galway.

O’Gorman Building and Tarmacadam LTD consistently strive to each top-class quality in every aspect of their business living by the moto, “you’re only as good as your last job”.

FUNCTIONALITY & AESTHETICS

For homeowners, investing in tarmacadam can significantly enhance the overall appeal and functionality and value of a property. According to Don, it’s more than just a driveway material - it’s the final touch that brings the entire home to a finish.

“Tarmac puts the finishing touches on a home,” Don says. “It transforms a rough, uneven gravel driveway into a clean, durable surface.”

Tarmacadam offers more than just visual appeal. It provides a smooth, stable surface that’s ideal for vehicles and foot traffic, reducing dust, mud, and loose stones that often come with gravel or unfinished driveways. It’s also low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and long-lasting, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Beyond practicality, a well-laid tarmac driveway increases a property’s market value. It gives the home a polished, well-maintained appearance, which makes a strong impression on visitors and potential buyers.

Tarmacadam isn’t just a cosmetic upgrade—it’s a practical investment that improves safety, convenience, and the overall look and value of your home.

Formoreinformationvisithttps:// www.ogormantarmacadam.ie/

James brings 25 years of roofing experience to Guide homeowners in Clare and Galway

When it comes to maintaining a home, the roof is arguably the most critical structural component.

It bears the brunt of the Irish weather that residents in Clare and Galway are prone to. For James Delaney, owner of Guideline Roofing, understanding these structures isn't just a business — it's a trade honed over 25 years and rooted in a family history of carpentry.

Steering Guideline Roofing, James is on-site, bringing a pragmatic, experience-led approach to residential and commercial roofing across the Mid-West.

Modern roofing has moved beyond simple slate and tile.

While Delaney manages all forms of new roof installations and pitched designs, his expertise extends into specialised flat roofing systems designed for longevity and weather resistance.

Beyond this, James covers

a wide variety of traditional repairs: addressing cracked tiles, leak detection, and

storm damage to prevent structural rot in the timberwork beneath; along with

services including facias and guttering.

THE REALITY OF MATERIAL COSTS

In an industry often prone to price fluctuations, James is candid about the current market. The cost of materials — from timber to specialized membranes — has risen significantly. To mitigate these expenses for his clients, he adopts a resourceful approach.

"The cost of materials is the primary driver of price right now," he notes. "When I’m working on larger commercial projects, I often keep high-quality surplus materials to offer to my residential customers. If I have extra material that is perfectly good, I’d rather use it to save a homeowner money than see it go to waste."

For homeowners looking to start a project, James notes that Guideline Roofing offers

a free quotation service onsite, where he will identify the scope of work, and provide a price for the job.

RELIABILITY

In a digital age, finding a reliable tradesperson can be a minefield. Guideline Roofing operates as a Google Guaranteed business. This isn't just a badge; it’s a certification that involves background checks and provides an additional layer of protection for the consumer, backed by Google’s own satisfaction guarantee.

Furthermore, Delaney remains the primary point of contact from the initial call to the final tile. "When you book a job, it's me you're getting. I’m highly recommended in Clare and my work is guaranteed," he says.

This level of personal accountability ensures that the 25 years of experience he promises are actually present on the ladder.

AFTERCARE AND LONGEVITY

Roofing is an investment in the long-term viability of a property. Delaney backs his work with specific warranties tailored to the scale of the project:

Repairs generally carry a 5 to 10-year guarantee. New Installations can carry between a 25 to 30-year warranty, depending on the materials used.

Guideline Roofing serves all of Clare and Galway, and parts of Mayo. Whether you require a full initial inspection to identify hidden leaks or a complete roof upgrade, James Delaney can be reached directly via the following channels:

For more information or for a quote, phone James on 085-208 5555.

5 ways to add character to your new build

by Deirdre Coleman INTERIOR DESIGNER

BUILDING a new home is an arduous yet rewarding journey but often people are left with a home lacking character and feels unfinished.

Spaces that fall within a minimalist design aesthetic are typically deﬁned by clean lines, limited ornamentation, a neutral colour scheme, and natural materials.

There’s a thin line between a sophisticated, pared-back look and a bland, uninviting interior so if you’re looking to ﬁnd a balance between simplicity and warmth, follow this step-by-step guide.

1. ARCHITECTURAL DETAIL

A few well-conceived architectural details can turn a bland room into a grand room. Start by pimping up your plain wall with panelling. The only materials you need are

paint, wood trim, adhesive and filler. Not only does tongue and groove panelling add character and texture to a room, but slat wall panel also helps insulate and cover uneven walls. Whether you’re looking to add a modern twist, or a dash of period charm, wall panelling is simple and cost-effective. Panelling can be used throughout your home. It can add vibrancy to your living spaces, a feature wall at the entrance to your home, a stunning backdrop for your wall mounted TV or a striking headboard in the bedroom. You can choose pre-finished wall panels - which include acoustic soundproofing wall panels, wood wall panels, MDF wall panels, and slatted wall panels that offer myriad benefits to help you elevate your interior design. Apply to any wall in your home with Bostik glue, and you can completely transform the aura of your house in a matter of hours. Fluted/reeded wall panelling is trending right now. Team with a modern wall light to highlight this dramatic statement detail.

2. ADD SOMETHING OLD

I like to source vintage pieces and pepper them into a contemporary build as they add so much personality and warmth. Whether it’s antique lamps, artwork, rugs or furniture, a mix of old and new adds charm to a home. If everything is the same style, it can feel too matchymatchy. A few modern pieces combined with vintage make a space feel as though you’ve been curating it for years.

Large vintage dressers or sideboards can be perfect in entryways, living rooms, or dining rooms. They are great for storage and hiding away items you may not want out in the open. Consider decorating your piece with modern artwork or modern accessories. This will make for a more eclectic vignette and will bring a more modern feel to your space. Getting the proportions of each piece right is important to how furnishings relate to one another. Oversized designs are generally better than undersized ones. Pendant lighting, for example – some of the most impressive designs combine vintage chandeliers and classical mirrors with contemporary seating.

Be creative with furniture and create a unique look by upcycling vintage pieces. If you have inherited a vintage piece of furniture, try ﬁnding a few accessories from the same era to tie it in.

3. WARM UP CONCRETE FLOORS

Polished concrete floors are a fabulous design decision - eco-friendly, naturally heat controlling, waterproof, hypoallergenic and durable when it comes to kids, pets and heavy trafﬁc. But it needs to be balanced with the warmth of wood. In a kitchen area add wood through furniture, a wooden kitchen or a wooden wall feature. Add a secret door

to your slatted wall leading to your pantry and you’re seriously bang on trend.

Soften the look further with curved elements in your seating to give an austere, industrial look a more approachable ﬁnish. Live plants are a perfect way to tone down the polished concrete and add in a layer of nature. Colours on the warm spectrum can stop the space from feeling too industrial, especially autumn tones such as oranges, reds, blues and golds.

Think about incorporating pendant lighting with warm tones. Pattern, bold colour and texture look great on concrete. A sisal rug with a border or a large pattern, for example, works incredibly well.

4. LAYER… THEN LAYER SOME MORE

We all know that the secret to the success of a rich, characterful scheme is layering. So what is layering in interiors – and how do you approach it? Each element in a space – paint, wallpaper, lighting, flooring, soft furnishings, furniture and accessories – is a layer.

Without an interior designer at your side, the intricacies of texture is an area that is easy to overlook. Texture can come through in a host of ways, so don’t forget the impact that the following can have: matte versus glazed accessories on a bookcase, book spines stacked on a side table aside a sculpted glass lamp base, a polished granite ﬁreplace hearth with a tasselled rug in front of it, or even wall treatments and artwork that have the ability to make the walls feel multi-dimensional. Materials such as wool rugs and woven baskets are a great way to add texture, and, akin to light needing shade, textures must be contrasted too.

5. DON’T BE AFRAID OF COLOUR

The common belief is that a new build can only be such if it's done without colour, in black and white. Perhaps that's an opinion based on the idea that to have a feeling of space, everything must be white. I still love white walls and if you're someone like me who really can't live with bright colour then it's a no-brainer that you're not going to go all out with brash colour, but remember that there's a broad spectrum of muted colour you can play with - the so-called 'New 'Neutrals'. Colour works best in a modern, minimalist home when it's used in block. By that I mean using the colour across each wall (no feature walls please). It's up to you whether you paint the woodwork and skirting the same shade (I prefer to) but having the conﬁdence to use that one colour across the whole room will have a greater impact on how it feels.

I am obsessed with the effect earthy tones have on a space. It's gives a sense of depth and warmth and looks amazing with pale and black wood. From terracotta, rust and reddish brown, what was once a trend in the 80s is back but without the rustic connotations. Use a flat matte ﬁnish on walls and woodwork and pair it with furniture with clean, contemporary lines. Earthy colours are easier to live with, both visually and emotionally as they look and feel like nature which grounds us. Try not to brighten spaces devoid of natural light with lighter colours, as they will just end up looking grey and dull. Instead, these warmer, earthier colours will ooze sophistication.

Celebrating 50 years of family leadership at

THIS year marks a proud milestone as Shannon Hotel Supplies, a Limerick company, celebrates 50 years in business.

Reaching half a century is a signiﬁcant achievement — one built on loyalty, dedication and an unwavering commitment to quality and service.

The company’s story began operating under the umbrella of the Clancy family electrical business. From those early days, founder Ray Clancy - whose grandfather George Clancy hailed form Doonbegestablished a company grounded in integrity, hard work, and strong personal relationships.

What started as a family-driven enterprise would grow into one of Limerick’s most respected names in commercial catering equipment and hospitality supplies.

Soon after its foundation Shannon Hotel Supplies was formally incorporated and began forging its own identity within the hospitality industry. From that base, the company steadily expanded its reach nationwide.

A deﬁning early achievement came when Shannon Hotel Supplies became the sole agent in Ireland for Villeroy & Boch.

Supplying premium Bone China tableware from Luxembourg to five-star hotels across the country positioned the company firmly within Ireland’s luxury hospitality sector. This prestigious partnership reflected the high standards Ray insisted upon — exceptional products backed by dependable service.

From the beginning, Shannon Hotel Supplies stood apart with a unique offering.

It supplied heavy-duty gas and electric commercial kitchen equipment while also providing chef supplies and elegant table presentation ware.

Customers could source everything from industrial cookers, commercial refrigeration and ovens to ﬁne dining tableware under one roof. This complete-solution approach became a deﬁning strength of the business and remains central to its identity today.

Today, the company proudly supplies and services advanced steam combination ovens from Rational AG. These modern systems have replaced many of the old labour-intensive

methods of largescale catering, offering precision, consistency, and efﬁciency. Importantly, Shannon Hotel Supplies has built an exemplary after-sales service to support these evolving technologies. As equipment modernises, so too does the company — continuously adapting to meet customer needs and operational requirements.

Further expansion into hygiene systems and barware reﬂects the same forward-thinking approach. The company now supplies advanced glass washers to bars, alongside commercial dishwashers for restaurants and industrial catering facilities. In an era where hygiene and compliance standards are paramount, Shannon Hotel Supplies ensures customers are equipped with reliable, regulation-compliant systems.

The business is actively involved in supplying the HSE and works strictly in accordance with HACCP regulations.

Food safety is fundamental to modern catering operations, and the company takes pride in supporting clients to meet and exceed these standards.

Beyond hospitality and healthcare, Shannon Hotel Supplies has developed strong partnerships within Ireland’s industrial pharmaceutical sector. The company services and supplies workforce restaurants and cafés within pharma manufacturing facilities both locally and nationwide — environments that demand precision, reliability, and strict regulatory compliance.

Supporting these projects is the company’s CAD drawing service, which integrates HACCP systems directly into kitchen and catering facility plans. By implementing food safety and workﬂow systems at the design stage, Shannon Hotel Supplies ensures efﬁciency and compliance from the outset of every project.

parking and easy loading and unloading facilities, providing practical convenience for customers and trade partners alike. Many may remember The Kitchen Range Cookshop in Catherine street. Which provided a catering inspired venue for the home cook which was directed and carefully managed by Ray’s wife Bernice Clancy for over 20 years.

Digital growth has become an important part of the company’s continued expansion. In recent years, Shannon Hotel Supplies has signiﬁcantly strengthened its online presence. Customers can avail of a convenient click-and-collect service or nationwide courier delivery. Increasingly,

tude. A sincere thank you is extended to the past and present customers who have supported Shannon Hotel Supplies throughout the decades — from independent cafés to ﬁve-star hotels, from healthcare facilities to large-scale industrial operations. Many of these relationships span generations and are deeply valued.

Equal appreciation is extended to the dedicated staff and sales team, past and present. Their expertise, professionalism and commitment have been instrumental in shaping the company’s success and reputation over the years.

‘In 2018, an important chapter began when Kieran Clancy became CEO’

Today, the company is conveniently located in Docklands Business Park, just a short walk from the city centre. The premises offer ample

orders are being placed from the UK and mainland Europe, reﬂecting the growing reach of the business. Continuous updates ensure a smooth and efﬁcient experience for customers who prefer to purchase online.

As the company celebrates 50 years, it does so with immense grati-

In 2018, an important chapter began when Kieran Clancy who is Ray’s son became CEO. Having spent 25 years within the company, beginning at grassroots level and working across all areas of the business, Kieran brings both practical experience and deep operational knowledge to his leadership role. Today, the business beneﬁts from a powerful combination of experience and forward vision. Ray continues to have valued input into the company, bringing decades of industry knowledge and steady guidance. With Kieran, this partnership reﬂects both heritage and progression — a blend that positions the company strongly for the future. The management structure continues to evolve. Deirdre Shannon

service, innovation & Shannon Hotel Supplies

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For a no obligation free consultation call Deirdre on 087 2721439

l CELEBRATION: (opposite) CEO Kieran Clancy and (inset) Ray Clancy who founded the business; (opposite below) Ray in the earlier days of business; (above) Shannon Hotel Supplies now fronted by its fleet of vehicles and (inset) at its original location in Limerick City; (below) Kieran with the team Bryan Doherty, Richard Troye , Timmy Cotter & Deirdre Shannon; (below right) Shannon Hotel Supplies sponsors the student excellence award at Shannon College. Pictured with the award is Isabelle Brennan, whose grandparents hail from Kevin Barry Avenue, presented by Mayor of Ennis Mary Howard; (bottom right) Shannon Hotel Supplies recently presented Gaelcholaiste An Chlair and Ennis Community College with sponsored jerseys;

now serves as Business Development Manager, focusing on strategic growth and client relationships, while Sheena Keane is Executive Service Administrator within the service department, ensuring customer support remains efﬁcient and responsive with our team of service engineers. Bryan Doherty is front of sales and shop manager. He has completed over 25 years and is very well known by our customers

for his efﬁciency and courtesy to all. A special word of thanks must also be extended to two long-serving and highly valued members of the team, Timmy Cotter and Richard Troye. Their many years of dedicated service, loyalty and professionalism have played an important role in the continued success of the company. Fifty years after its foundation, Shannon Hotel Supplies remains true to the principles on which it was built —

quality, adaptability, and service. From supplying ﬁne Bone China to luxury hotels, to installing and servicing cutting-edge combination ovens; from supporting healthcare and pharmaceutical catering facilities to expanding its digital footprint — the company continues to evolve with its customers.

As Shannon Hotel Supplies celebrates 50 years in business. Built on family leadership, loyal customers and a dedicated team,

the company stands ready to continue serving Ireland’s hospitality, healthcare, and industrial catering sectors for many years to come. Email Shannon Hotel Supplies: info@shsonline.ie | Call on 061 410622 / 087 2721439 | Visit www.shsonline. shop. Energy efﬁciency Grant (up to €10k ) now available for equipment upgrades, contact Deirdre on 087 2721439 for a free consultation.

Photos by Tom Micks

Doonbeg's Hugh is one to watch

DOONBEG businessman, Hugh McNally has been presented with the One to Watch accolade at the Technological University of the Shannon (TUS) Startup Awards.

High potential, innovation-led businesses from across the Mid-West region are showcased through the awards. They marked the culmination of the Enterprise Ireland New Frontiers programme at TUS, which supports founders to develop scalable businesses with regional and international impact.

Hugh who co-founded

CarPal received the One to Watch Award. CarPal is a platform designed to transform how car dealers connect with buyers, it is a demand-led automotive platform that gives dealers access to veriﬁed, high-intent customers, reducing wasted enquiries and improving conversion and stock turnover.

McNally was the fourth generation of his family to run Morrissey’s Bar and Restaurant in Doonbeg, he took over running the business in 2000 while still studying for a degree in business management. He

is the youngest of four siblings and the only non-practicing accountant. A decade ago, he completed his ﬁnal taxation exams. Hugh is a distant cousin of former US Vice President, Mike Pence. l Hugh McNally

‘My days are very varied’ as social care worker with Corlann

CORLANN is the new name for Brothers of Charity Services Ireland, providing support services to more than 6,000 people each year with an in tellectual disability, includ ing those who also have autism.

Services are delivered by dedicated teams of staff from diverse educational and professional backgrounds.

Maggie Daly, a social care worker in County Clare, explains, “I used to support an elderly gentleman in a different organisation and I became interested in transitioning into working with younger individuals on the autism spectrum.

Maggie has a BA in Information Systems Management which she completed in 2007. “After college, I emigrated to Australia and became a Nurses Aid in hospital settings around Sydney. On my return home in 2010, I began working as a Care Assistant in a local nursing home and completed some Level 5 FETAC modules. I began working with Brothers of Charity Services in 2015 as a Support Worker. In 2023, I became a Social Care Worker.

“I have direct support hours where I support individuals’ needs, preferences, strengths and goals. As far as possible, I encourage skill development rather than doing tasks. I also have admin hours in order to

complete personal outcome measures, finances, meeting minutes, health and medical records and various admin duties delegated to me by my manager.” Maggie continues, “My days are very varied, which I like. My direct support duties vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the individual; going for a walk, attending appointments, supporting meal prep, housekeeping and supporting the person to meet up with their family or friends.

“I treat every person I support as an individual, recognising their unique needs, goals and wants. I support individuals with dignity and respect and provide a safe environment.”

Corlann supports staff with professional development, a great work-life balance and roster flexibility, competitive salary and shift premiums, pension and retirement benefits, paid leave and holiday entitlements.

Maggie concludes, “My career highlight has been the opportunity to progress from Support Worker to Social Care Worker. I feel the experience I’ve gained has been recognised by the organisation.”

*PICTURED: Maggie and Janet, Corlann Clare Services

Preachers Bar rebrands as Chapter 24 launches at the Temple Gate Hotel

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Temple Gate Hotel has unveiled Chapter 24, the latest phase of its evolution with the rebranding of its iconic Preachers Bar.

The move marks a significant reinvestment, introducing a revamped aesthetic and an elevated gastro-pub menu designed to mirror the success of the Ennis hotel’s recently launched restaurant, Gate 96.

The name Chapter 24 serves as a nod to both the hotel’s history and its future. Hotel co-owner John Gavin explained that the rebrand was a strategic decision to align the bar with the hotel’s modern direction.

“We were always going to refurb the pub and we had to decide whether to keep the Preachers name,” said Gavin. “We felt to give it the most exposure we would rebrand, as we had done with our restaurant Gate 96 which was very successful. It’s the next chapter in our progression; we bought the Temple Gate in 2024, so we combined both to create Chapter 24.”

The physical transformation of the space is extensive. While the building’s historic charm remains a priority, the interior has undergone a total facelift. This includes new furniture, updated lighting, treated flooring, and a bespoke mural of Ennis town featured in the redone internal corridor.

A standout feature of the new decor is a window display showcasing whiskey from local producer JJ Corry. This partnership is set to deepen later this

the hotel to produce its own signature whiskey—a move previously successful at their sister property, the Shannon Springs Hotel.

At the heart of the relaunch is a new menu helmed by Head Chef Stephen Higgins. The focus is on “elevated” gastro-pub fare, moving away from standard bar food toward a more refined approach.

“It’s a gastro pub, but elevated,” Higgins told The Clare Echo. “We’re keeping some staple dishes like the Irish Stew, but it’ll be tweaked. Everything else has changed, from the gourmet bar sandwich menu to the fresh haddock used in the chowders.”

The attention to detail is evident in the presentation. Traditional fish and chips, for example, is served with homemade tartare sauce in oyster shells and lemon wrapped in muslin cloth, all presented on new black slate crockery.

Recognizing the current economic climate, the bar has also introduced a Supper Club menu on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesdays, offering two courses for €20. “People don’t always have the disposable income to go out early in the week,” Higgins noted. “We brought in the supper club to give people great value without compromising on the standard.”

The rebranding comes at a time when increased pedestrianisation in Ennis is drawing more footfall toward the hotel, located just off O’Connell Square. Following a successful soft opening at the weekend which drew huge crowds thanks to Waterford’s visit to Cusack Park — which saw the courtyard host live music alongside the new slick carvery service at Gate 96 — management is confident that Chapter 24 will become a primary fixture for both locals and visitors.

Chapter 24 is now open for lunch and dinner daily from 12pm, with service extended until 9:30 pm during the summer months.

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.

• Sporadic Cover School Warden - Ennis

Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 7th May 2026.

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

Only applications completed online will be accepted. Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

l Chapter 24, the newly-refurbished gastro bar at Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis; (below) the new interior decor and mural at the entrance corridor Photos by Tom Micks

‘If you are not excited about playing the

champions you shouldn’t be in the

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LIFE as an inter-county manager has been “a whirlwind” for Paul Madden since his appointment as Clare manager last August and it goes up a notch this weekend when they welcome the All-Ireland champions to Ennis.

Hopes of promotion back to Division 2 of the Allianz National Football League didn’t materialise for Madden in his maiden run. By Saturday evening, Clare will be either be in a Munster ﬁnal having achieved one of the greatest sporting feats for the county or else they will be preparing for a ﬁrst-ever Tailteann Cup campaign.

A three-time Clare SFC winning manager with Éire Óg, the task in taking down reigning All-Ireland and Munster champions Kerry in Cusack Park this Saturday is by far the biggest ask of his managerial career. There is an element of seizing the opportunity within the Clare camp, he admitted. “If the reigning Munster and All-Ireland champions are coming to your patch in championship especially having lost the league final to Donegal which they wouldn’t have liked losing, they don’t have anything to prove because they have proved it but they will be coming with a bit between their teeth so obviously they are the games you want to be involved in and I’ve said that to the group. In my opinion, if you are not excited about playing the All-Ireland champions at home in the Munster championship then you shouldn’t be in the dressing room”. Saturday’s tie decides which competition Clare are in next but Madden said there’s been no mention of the Tailteann Cup within their dressing room. “I said at the start of the year, wherever we end up being, we will aim to be as competitive as we can. We’re in Division 3, for the most part we were very competitive, there were parts of games that we weren’t happy with. Now we’re in the Munster championship and I’ve said to the lads, our aim is to go out and win it, the draw pitted us against Kerry in the Munster semi-final so we’re happy that it is the draw and that we’re playing Kerry, it is a great test for us, we’re only focused on that, we’re either going to be in a Munster final and the All-Ireland series or we’re going to be in the Tail-

teann Cup, we won’t know that till after the weekend but our focus is purely on the Kerry game”.

Appointed for a three-year term in August, Paul has offered stability following the rocky departures of Kerry natives Mark Fitzgerald and Peter Keane after single seasons. Reflecting on the initial eight months of his first inter-county gig, he stated, “It has been good for the most part, it has definitely been a whirlwind in the sense that it feels like only yesterday that I agreed to take on the role and now we’re a week out from championship having played a league and McGrath Cup campaign, the condensed season means there’s an awful lot of activity in a short period of time so we played seven league games in nine weeks and nine games in twelve weeks if you include the McGrath Cup, we’ve had a number of challenge games too so it’s a lot of games in a short space of time but once the competitions started in early January the year has flown to date”.

Owner and General Manager of The Temple Gate Hotel from 2003 to 2024, Paul has not gone into new ventures since his exit from the hotel and hospitality game, though there have been plenty of offers. “Going into the Clare football job, I treat every job the same, I like to think I gave 110 percent to Éire Óg, to the Temple Gate and all the other committees I was on. The inter-county stuff is intense, there is a window where you’re not at it so come July the inter-county season ends whether you are winning an All-Ireland or whatever your exit point. Given that he is now dealing with players of a higher level, Madden has found that he is held more to account by the footballers he is working alongside. “They are dedicating their whole lives to this, they want to know why they are not in the twenty six or if they are in the twenty six why they are not getting a game, they will feel they are better than the players that are and they are not saying it in a negative way but they just want to understand, you’ve got to have an open and honest rapport, you all have to be on the same hymn sheet. When you go to a training session that is on at 19:30, you’re probably there from 17:30 and you’re last to leave at 22:15, that is for a training session and it’s a ﬁve hour

All-Ireland

dressing room

block so you get very little to sit down and talk one on one with the players or with your management because it comes so quickly, there’s so many facets, you deﬁnitely are explaining to players, maybe it’s an easy explain if you just have players that are better than the players that aren’t in the team and it is a simple one these guys are in the team because they are doing X, Y or Z better than the rest”.

Joining him on the management team is former Clare midﬁelder Ger Quinlan, ﬁve-time Clare SFC winner Shane Daniels and Kieran Murphy who coached Moycullen to win a third Galway SFC title before reaching the Connacht decider last year. On why he selected this crew, Paul explained, “My own personal philosophy on management and being involved in teams is to get really good, hard-working, loyal, honest people involved, you create the environment where you are rewarded with

hard work, I appreciate that for inter-county management you need to have talent on top of that. This is my ﬁrst inter-county job but my role as manager is to make sure that the environment is correct, that we have all the correct tools, I believe we’ve a very good coach in Kieran Murphy, I’ve spoken to him for years about other things, he’s had good success, Shane (Daniels) had success last year with Éire Óg and really wants to focus on becoming a top-level coach, Ger Quinlan is one of the most solid individuals you will meet off the pitch, he has a wealth of experience having coached at a very high standard at club level. Ultimately if you look at it in the context of where we are as individuals, you’d like to think we’re people on the way up as opposed to people on the way down, Kieran is a Galway man but the rest of us are homegrown, we’ve a good knowledge of the club scene. Our S&C coach is also Galway based, we’ve

an assistant S&C coach who is a Clare ladies footballer

Megan Downes who is excellent. We’ve surrounded ourselves with good honest hard-working people, if you create that atmosphere and environment the players will fall into line with it”.

Three wins and four defeats saw Clare finish third from bottom in Division 3 of the National League and gave plenty of lessons during the space of nine weeks. “If you take Wexford’s campaign, they got off to a great start with two wins and momentum is key, we got two losses. Leaving Newry the first day, considering we had been beaten by an average of seventeen or eighteen points in the previous two times we played them, we were comprehensively beaten, that was coming from the players and they identified Down as a team that physically and football wise blew them out of the water, I was delighted to get them in round one because it was a real focus and

a challenge, I felt leaving Newry that day as much as we were a bit naïve in our awareness to the game and tactics around it, we were not found wanting condition wise, ﬁtness wise or strength wise, we could have got something out of that game, we should have really but we didn’t”.

Following this performance with a five point loss to Westmeath was the most disappointing showing for Clare under Madden. “The Westmeath game is the one that really hankers with me in the league because we did not perform at the level we should have, I don’t mind losing, actually I hate losing, I’m not a bad loser but I hate losing. A few things went against us that day and it was like the air went out of it and we just downed tools, we didn’t but for some reason we were really flat, that is the one performance that sticks out”. Turnovers, kickout retention, conditioning and an ability to get shots off jump out to the Ennis man as the big lessons from the league. When he took on the job, Paul publicly stated that he believed Clare were ranked between thirteenth and sixteenth of the gaelic football teams in the country, his assessment hasn’t changed. “I still think that is the case, we’re in Division 3 and the league table has us joint third from bottom and we’re also joint fifth, we’re still a Division 3 team”.

Since getting to know the panel of players, he said they all have the common goal of wanting to do their best for Clare football. “All the guys that are there want to be there, they work extremely hard, there’s no attitude and if there is negativity it is lads being frustrated which is common, I’d be annoyed if a fella was happy to not be playing or if he was happy to have a poor performance, there is no negative vibe in the camp at all and I wouldn’t tolerate it at all, I would like to think the biggest thing I could bring is people management skills, seeing guys spending some time with them, talking to them and starting to understand them, they are all different but they have one common goal in that they want to play football for Clare and to win, they are willing to work hard for it, that is the common theme”.

Extended interview available for

Paul Madden

Photo by Ruth Grifﬁn

Ryan ruled out for Clare footballers

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GOALKEEPER Stephen Ryan is unavailable for selection for Clare’s Munster semi-final against Kerry.

Clare will be without their first choice goalkeeper for the visit of All-Ireland champions Kerry to Cusack Park this Saturday in what comes as a blow to the county side but one that is eased somewhat by the availability of Tristan O’Callaghan.

Vice captain Dermot Coughlan is understood to be a major injury doubt. The Kilmurry Ibrickane man missed Clare’s final two outings of the league where they suffered disappointing defeats to Wexford and Sligo and his presence was sorely missed.

Kilrush’s Stephen who made his championship debut in the 2019 Munster quarter-final win over Waterford is a doubt for the entirety of Clare’s campaign. Vice captain in 2024 for Mark Fitzgerald’s sole season in charge, the AIB employee was late joining the squad last season and made one appearance, the final outing of the year against Louth. He appeared in all but one of Clare’s league games and managed to save a penalty in their fourth round win over Laois.

Manager Paul Madden confirmed to The Clare Echo that they won’t be able to call on the “He is out for the moment, Stephen has something going on at the moment and he is not available”.

His absence means St Breckan’s O’Callaghan is set for his first championship appearance for the county since 2025. He comes into the fray

off the back of an exceptional campaign with the University of Limerick, playing a pivotal role in their first-ever Sigerson Cup success including winning the man of the match award in their final win.

Madden outlined, “I would say Tristan O’Callaghan has had the best year of his career this year, he had a fantastic year with UL, he has trained really well with us, he has played really well in the games he has played so we’re very fortunate that we have an excellent keeper in Tristan and you need that, you need a squad, you need lads under pressure to stay in the team and you need lads putting pressure on to get in the team. I’ve had a lot of meetings with a lot of guys, Tristan has been one of them, he’s been playing well and wanted to know what more he needs to do, he has his chance now and hopefully he takes it”.

Captain Cillian Rouine who missed all but one game of the league is expected to return to centre back. Another hamstring injury ended the involvement of midfielder Darragh Bohannon from the third round of the league onwards with Caoilfhionn O’Dea among those also sidelined with a similar ailment.

Emmet McMahon, Colm Walsh O’Loghlen, James Curran and James Killeen are all sidelined with anterior cruciate ligament injuries

Bohannon is understood to be in the mix for a return to the first fifteen but Coughlan remains a big doubt. “We have a number of guys that have been injured throughout the league, there’s a couple that aren’t going to be fully ready for this

weekend, it is a time thing. I’ve often heard managers in the past say and it is a fact, you’ve got to have good medical people around you, we’ve a good team doctor, good physios, a good S&C coach, then you have to trust them, if someone in the medical team whether it is the physios or doctors are saying that this player needs another four weeks then it is foolish not to go with what they’re saying. It is hard enough play these games and try win these games if you are fit, if you are not fit then it is a problem”.

Madden added, “a lot of our soft muscular tissue injuries and we’ve had a lot of them as other teams have, are starting to get right now and whether they will be right for next week I’m not sure but they are starting to get right”.

Ryan’s unavailability has led to St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield’s Tom O’Brien joining the squad. He had been part of the squad during Colm Collins’ tenure and is currently goalkeeper coach with the county minor footballers.

Four goalkeepers were part of the panel in November with Ryan and O’Callaghan joined by Eoin Byrne of St Breckans and Killimer’s Cian Corry. Corry was among ten players let go from the panel while Byrne left both the senior and U20 panels in January. “Eoin Byrne was our development keeper, he decided to go back to club to focus on playing outfield, he is playing outfield with his club, you need to have the ball in your hand outfield all of the time and if you want to be a goalkeeper you have to be obsessed with being a goalkeeper all of the time.

Stephen Ryan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Rouine bringing the Ciller edge

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CILLIAN ROUINE will lead Clare’s senior footballers into the championship arena for the ﬁrst time this weekend, getting to do is an immense honour and a “huge performance” is required if they are to a great sporting upset against All-Ireland champions Kerry.

Captaining Clare is a privilege, Cillian is quick to point out and the distinction of the role is not lost on the defender who is likely to ﬁll the centre back berth this Saturday when Kerry come to Ennis.

He is the fourth Clare captain in fourteen seasons, following in the footsteps of Gary Brennan (201319), Eoin Cleary (2020-23) and Cillian Brennan (2024-25). Cillian has never had any issues in ﬁlling big shoes, the Rouine family are one of the great Clare football clans with his father Brendan ‘Beano’ and uncle Joe Joe part of the 1992 Munster SFC winning side. Before Cillian and younger brother Brendy’s breakthrough to the senior side, the Rouines were always ever-presents in supporting Clare football teams across the country.

Therefore it comes as little surprise that his appointment as captain in January by Paul Madden and his management has meant a lot to the family and to Cillian. He was sitting down at home in Lahinch when Madden rang him and outlined his intention to make him captain, the news was then announced to the panel at training in Caherlohan. “It is not something I’ve been playing down, it is an honour for me but also the people around me because they have shaped me to be the person I am, my family I can’t thank them enough like, it is an honour to play

for Clare but to be able to represent the teammates that I have because they are all really good people, when times are tough they have been there for each other and been there for me and my family when times have been tough, they are really good people, it has been an honour to represent them, it is an honour to just play football and be friends with them,” Cillian told The Clare Echo.

Those that know Cillian are well aware of his leadership qualities and ability to bring people with him which is why the move to make him captain was an inspired choice. He captained Ennistymon to win their maiden Cusack Cup title in 2023 beating rivals St Breckan’s and was Clare minor football captain when they reached the Munster ﬁnal in 2018.

Unfortunately for Clare’s senior side, he has only got to captain the side once so far in 2026 with his involvement limited to a thirty minute appearance against Fermanagh in the third round of the Allianz National Football League. He broke his thumb during Clare’s ﬁrst training session under the new management which required an operation and then tore his hamstring when kicking for the posts in Brewster Park in the middle of February in what was Clare’s ﬁrst win of Division 3.

Reﬂecting on his disrupted campaign, Rouine said, “I’ve had unlucky injuries really, I broke my thumb on our ﬁrst night back training in November, I had to get an operation and I was out for ten weeks. I hit off someone’s elbow, it was. the ‘around the back tackle’ that you see come off for players a lot of the time but I went for it and I hit one of my teammates elbow’s and I came out the worse of it. Then I got back for thirty min-

operation ahead

game, you get injured, you go to

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DOONBEG’s James Killeen is set to miss the remainder of the season after sustaining an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

Killeen has been part of the county senior football panel for the first but has sidelined in recent weeks after receiving confirmation that he picked up the dreaded ACL injury. Initially the extent of his injury was not known and he was able to train before confirmation of the diagnosis.

While an immediate breakthrough to the starting Clare team in his ﬁrst season was not a guarantee, his loss will be a monumental blow to Doonbeg where he has been such a solid anchor of their defence.

Brian Shanahan’s side have been paired in a tricky Group 1 alongside holders Éire Óg, 2023 winners Cratloe and 2019 winners St Joseph’s Miltown and they will certainly miss the presence of the full back.

Since his addition to the county panel in November, James was full-back in challenge matches against Galway and Clare’s U20s while he was introduced for the entire second half of their 3-10 0-11 win against Waterford in the McGrath Cup in January. He was not part of the matchday twenty six for

any of the Allianz National Football League outings but was among those to partake in the warm-up against Limerick.

He is the second Clare panellist to sustain an ACL injury this season, James Curran of St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld did his knee injury over the festive period. Emmet McMahon is nearing a return from his ACL injury which he picked up when playing a challenge match for Kildysart last July while Colm Walsh O’Loghlen had his injury when lining out for Éire Óg in the Clare SFC.

Clare manager, Paul Madden told The Clare Echo, “We’ve lost two lads with cruciate injuries, James Curran and James Killeen. We’ve lost those lads and we’ve a couple of lads on the injury table and coming back from injuries, Colm Walsh O’Loghlen will be back this year, he is making progress, Emmet McMahon is making progress.

“We’ve a big enough panel of thirty six lads, we brought in ﬁfty two at the start, we had sixty seven names on a board, because we’re local we’re able to identify lads who played well for the club and it is important that players had that idea that if they played well for the club that they would be seen, there is a big difference, you could be the best player in your club but you just might not be able, you could

utes against Fermanagh and did a hamstring. Without going too deep or anything like that, if you zoom out a bit, sports injuries I’ve dealt with them fairly easily mentally, they aren’t the end of the world”. Whether it be with club or county, injuries have frequently hindered Cillian be in strains, tears or an ankle operation ahead of the 2023 season. “Injuries are tough there’s no doubt but every footballer deals with injuries, every sports person deals with injuries, it is part of the game, you get injured, you go to physio, you do your rehab and you get back, you try stay healthy for as long as possible, this year wasn’t my ﬁrst time getting injuries and they won’t be my last either, you just have to get on with it”. lines, he was among the supporters for the O’Callaghans Mills hurlers who reached the Munster intermediate club ﬁnal. “I’ve big hurling connections in fairness, my cousins play for the Mills, Cormac, Seán and Liam Murphy, Liam was on the Clare minors in the last two years, we’d be big O’Callaghans Mills supporters as well as Inagh/ Kilnamona and Ennistymon of course”. His mother, Fiona a native of Tulla hails from a strong

Killeen sidelined with ACL injury

have eight lads going for three of the inside forward positions and the ﬁve that aren’t getting in are starting for their clubs and are the main fellas every day, they are training really hard and that is the nature of it. Thirty ﬁve or six is enough but if you pick up injuries and you want to play in-house games that is when you feel it, you do need a big panel”.

During his spell on the side-

big

James Killeen

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

to new role as Clare captain

hurling family with her brother Michael ‘Lofty’ captaining them to their last Clare SHC title in 2007. Hamstring tears and the broken thumb had Cillian acting as maor uisce rather than centre back which gave him a different vantage point to study their their league campaign. “It was up and down, there was a lot of good stuff but a lot of stuff we wouldn’t be happy with either. We had chances to push on and unfortunately some things didn’t go our way in different games, we are where we are, we have to park it and move on, look towards the Munster championship and With the focus on Saturday’s Munster semi-final with Kerry, the twenty five year old said a huge performance is required if they are to cause a big upset. “We’re just focusing on Kerry and delivering a performance, we want to take the key learnings from the league, improve on them, keep up the things we are doing well, try get a performance against Kerry and see where it brings us you

Munster finals in the last few years like if you look at it, we played Donegal the first year two weeks after the final, Cork the second year and Down last year, those three games were all winnable at the time but we were still hungover from the Munster final and did terribly in them, they set an unfortunate tone for the rest of the games. If we are in the Sam Maguire we want to build on it and go as far as we can, you never know. If we are in the Tailteann, it is the same thing, build on it, we’ve never been in the Tailteann so we will want to push on and get as far as we can”.

Defeat to Kerry this weekend would see Clare line out in the Tailteann Cup for the first time. “I don’t think it would be a backward step no, you can see the bounce some of the teams have got from it, our full focus is on Kerry but you can see the bounce teams have got off it and there has been a benefit since the GAA brought it in, if we are in it so be it and we will just have to get on with it, hopefully we will get a performance against Kerry and you’d never know what might happen”.

Losing to Kerry in the last three Munster finals did leave an Effect on Clare when it came to their subsequent All-Ireland campaigns, he felt. “If we are in the Sam Maguire we want to push on there because we would have been unhappy with the last three Munster finals and how we’ve done in the All-Ireland afterwards, I feel like we nearly get hangovers after the

His senior debut arrived in 2021 during Clare’s seventeen point Munster quarter-final loss to Kerry. Over the subsequent seasons in saffron and blue, there’s been plenty of changes, not least the amount of different hairstyles sported by Cillian. “That is my own brain unfortunately and I say the word unfortunately, I get a different notion a good bit, I like to change it up, I’ve had a lot of bad ones, some not so bad ones but a lot of bad ones”.

It’s between the perm of 2022 and an older buzz cut for the worst styles, he admitted. “I let it grow long there a few times and it goes curly alright, the buzz cut I got was

Rouine exits Clare panel

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNISTYMON footballer Seán Rouine has left the Clare panel prior to the start of the Munster senior football championship while members of the U20 squad may be added in the coming weeks.

Twenty six year old Rouine departed the county panel in the wake of Clare’s Division 3 campaign in the Allianz National Football League. He was not included in the matchday panel for any of Clare’s nine outings in both the Allianz National Football League and the McGrath Cup for 2026 since receiving the call-up last winter. Respective calf and hamstring injuries did dent the Lahinch man’s prospects of trying to break into the top twenty six. His first cousins, Cillian and Brendy are staple members of the starting fifteen.

Since exiting the county squad, the strength and conditioning coach has returned to the management team of the St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield ladies footballers as head coach. A masters graduate from Setanta College, Rouine is a highly rated coach at Hustle Fitness.

Clare manager Paul Madden has been praised for the manner in which he and his management have created an enjoyable set-up, Rouine is only the second of fifty

a lot worse before, I got an awful buzz cut a few years ago”. The blame for any bad cuts lays firmly with himself and not his cousin, Mikey who runs a successful barbers in Ennistymon, “I get a notion, I watch a few TikTok videos and go in and tell the barber”. There’s nothing radical planned for the championship look this weekend, he said, “I’ll try keep it simple and not draw too much attention to myself coming back from this injury”.

A primary school teacher at Knockanean NS, he is enjoying the temporary relocation to St Flannan’s College. “Whenever anyone asks me where I’m teaching the answer is a bit trickier, the building we’re in at the moment in Flannan’s is unbelievable, we’ll be going back to an even newer building in Knockanean this time next year, things are going well”.

Impressions of Madden and his management have been very positive for Rouine. “They are super. Paul is a great manager, very professional, a sound man, knows his football inside out, knows Clare football inside out. Kieran Murphy is super, he is genius of football, he is really good, Shane Daniels and Ger Quinlan are super lads with really good football knowledge, we’re blessed with the management we have”.

On the prospect of taking down the reigning All-Ireland and Munster champions, Cillian said, “You never know. In the history of sport there has always been upsets, we’re no fools either and we know it would take a huge performance from us to cause that upset but you never know”.

two footballers that have been on the panel since November to walk away, the other being Eoin Byrne of St Breckan’s.

Madden confirmed to The Clare Echo, “Seán Rouine has left the panel” and acknowledged the commitment involved for players involved. “At the end of the day if you are committing five days a week to it and you are struggling to get into the matchday twenty six then it’s a big commitment, some lads will do it because they might be nineteen or twenty one years of age and they will do it for next year and the year after, Seán is in the age bracket where he has thought if I can’t break into it now and injuries didn’t help”.

Seán had returned to the county squad after a six year gap, he had been part of Colm Collins’ panel in 2019 but was let go during the campaign. His initial breakthrough stemmed following his displays at wing back as the youngest member of the Ennistymon side when they reached the Clare SFC final in 2018. He had also featured in defence for Clare’s minors who reached the 2017 Munster final losing to Kerry 2-21 0-3.

Members of the Clare U20 panel may be added to the senior squad when their campaign concludes, Madden said. “We had two U20s at the start of the year, Evan Cahill and Eoin Byrne, Eoin because

he was in the specialist goalkeeper position and Evan because he was on the panel last year. I spoke with Dermot Coughlan who I speak with all the time, we have a good relationship as he would with Joe Hayes, I made it very clear to Dermot what my view was and he agreed, that lads should be pulling up trees for the U20s before they are considered for the seniors. Evan is on our panel and it is merited because he played last year for Clare, he has been pretty much heavily involved with Trench Cup in college and the U20s who are into their sixth game, he has been with them exclusively, he picked up a knock with one of us and couldn’t train with us, we felt if we wanted to get him right for the first round of the U20 championship we left him exclusively with the U20s.

“We’ve been at the U20 games, we’ve seen the players, there’s lots of talent, lots of guys there that to be honest we could have brought into our panel but we felt they needed to earn their stripes with the U20s first and I think that is the way to do it. Even if you are an exceptional talent, you have to play and win with your age-group, I’d be very comfortable with Dermot and his management that they can give them a good foundation. We’ll make a call after the U20s is finished as to whether we will bring lads in or not”.

Clare captain, Cillian Rouine Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Kerry”.

never know”.

Emmet nearing

a return to action but Munster campaign will come too soon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE STAR Emmet McMahon is nearing a return to action.

Saturday’s Munster semi-final against All-Ireland champions Kerry will come too soon for Emmet but he is expected to play a part beyond the provincial campaign whether Clare are lining out in the All-Ireland SFC or the Tailteann Cup.

McMahon has been out of the game since rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in a challenge game for Kildysart last July which kept him out of the entire Clare SFC.

He has remained unavailable for selection for the entirety of Paul Madden’s debut season in charge of Clare but remains an ever-present member of the panel and has not missed a single competitive match this season as proof of his commitment to the county cause. His ability to kick two pointers, land crucial scores and compete in the air has been missed but he will hopefully see some action for what would be his seventh inter-county championship campaign.

On top of this, the secondary school teacher at St Caimin’s Community School has got involved with the backroom team of the Clare minor footballers as a performance coach.

Madden told The Clare Echo that McMahon is making steady progress but still has a bit to go with his recovery.

“He has to get his sign-off which I think is the end of the month with Santry to say he has hit all of his markers. The thing that people don’t realise with injuries at this level, you could be coming back from a long-term injury and then you’re doing work to get to that point, you could be coming off an eight or ten week hamstring injury, when you get the sign off to say your injury is healed, you then have to return to play process before you can play at inter-county level in a championship game so you might be healed but you haven’t enough done to play.

“With somebody coming back from a cruciate, the biggest challenge is not the knee because the structure of the knee will be sound and the surgery would have been top class, the sign off will say it is perfectly functioning but your body isn’t used to the load of inter-county training so muscular injuries are common, you have to manage the process. We’d love to have Emmet McMahon playing every game, he is a top class inter-county footballer and a brilliant guy, we’ll be delighted to have him back but we will have to manage that process whenever it is,” he added.

‘All of our trips to Cusack Park are testing’ says Kerry’s Geaney

by Páraic

McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THREE-TIME All-Ireland winner, Paul Geaney said Kerry teams never get it all their own way when travelling to Cusack Park and admitted their objective at the beginning of every year is always to win the Munster championship.

Claiming provincial honours this season would be special for Kerry not because there is added significance around winning an eighty seventh title but rather this is the first year whereby the trophy is named after Páidí Ó Sé, a winner of eleven All-Irelands and eight Munster championships at senior level.

A winner of five All Stars, Páidí died suddenly in December 2012 and is Paul’s father in law. “Of course it would be nice, it doesn’t change anything as regards motivation, we’ve always been hyper-motivated to win Munster. It is a huge privilege for the O’Shea family for the Cup to be named after Páidi, tipping the hat to his career after winning eleven as a player and numerous as a manager. He spent his time in Clare too so he contributed to more than just Kerry football. It is testament to Páidí to have it named after him. It is hard to say would it add extra significance for us because it is always our objective at the start of the year to win Munster so you can’t want to win it anymore but it is significant and a huge honour for Kerry, for Páidí and the Ó Sé family,” Geaney admitted. It was in 2014 when Paul made his senior championship debut for Kerry, kicking six points from play as they left Ennis with a 1-17 1-13 win and a place in the Munster final secured. He recalled, “we barely got out of there, it was the skin of our teeth in 2014, it was a great day out for me but over the years anytime we have been to Ennis it has been very testing, a few times we’ve barely got out of there, a few times we shouldn’t have and were left off the hook but

it is always testing going up there. Ennis as a ground is a great venue, it can be hostile enough, it is a tough affair anytime we’ve been there and I expect the same again”.

There is plenty of familiarity between both counties. Prior to Paul Madden, the last two Clare managers were Kerry men, Mark Fitzgerald (2024) and Peter Keane (2025) while Paul’s first cousin David coached St Joseph’s Miltown to Clare SFC success in 2018 and 2019 before getting involved with Michael Neylon and the Clare U20s. “He spent a bit of time with Miltown and the Clare U20s, he was telling me about players on the way up to keep an eye out for. There’s plenty of other Kerry fellas that have been up in Clare that would have more insight like Mark Fitzgerald, James Costelloe, Shane O’Rourke and us with Dingle this year, we’ve plenty insight already”.

Kerry contested the Division 1 final of the league while Clare finished third from bottom in Division 3, two grades separate the counties but that does not come into the thinking this weekend, Paul said. “For us we don’t look at divisions, any opposition we look at them on an even keel and break down the team looking at their strengths and weaknesses and go from there. With championship it is giving your all for seventy plus minutes, that is the way we have always approached it. We approach every team by respecting them first and trying to break down the game over the seventy minutes and getting on top, it has stood to us so hopefully we continue in that game”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he acknowledged that reaching the Division 1 final, the 3-20 2-10 defeat aside, helped in giving them an early outing in Croke Park. “It feels there’s an extra week in preparation this year. The extra game in the league is great because you get into Croke Park early in the year, you’re playing another top class opposition too. We had a nice block of work to do after the league, reviewed it and got work

done before the Munster championship. It is nice to have a tight season, before there was nearly two months between the league and Munster which wasn’t ideal and you had lads coming back from club games injured, focus wise it is a lot better now”.

A calf injury curtailed his involvement during Kerry’s run to lift the Sam Maguire but all is well on the injury front for the Dingle publican. “I’ve had a couple of setbacks along the way but I’m in good fettle and happy with where I’m at. I had a great run last year until I broke my scapula against Cork which derailed me, then I had a calf issue which finished my championship. Staying on the field is key and hopefully I’ve had my fill of it”.

Geaney captained his club to a first Kerry SFC title in 77 years before they later captured a maiden All-Ireland SFC club title in what was a fairytale season. He was given time off during the league to recover. “I missed most of the league so that was my window, I took three weeks off after the club, then went at it from there, recovered from my injury and got a bit of a pre-season done. I’m ticking along nicely and looking forward to trying to get my jersey back which is my first task”.

New players including U20 Tomás Kennedy were among those to catch the eye in his absence but the competition for places “is key” for any successful side, he said. “You have to have competition for places otherwise things will go stale on a panel. You need the next generation coming up to learn and push for jerseys, that is how you have long-term success. There was thirty two players used during the league which is good, a couple of lads got more games this year, Keith Evans did very well, Armin Heimrich at wing back for most of the league which is great for them. It is key for lads like Tomás Kennedy and Dylan Geaney to be pushing on and training to take the inside jerseys”.

Paul Geaney

Photo by David Fitzgerald / Sportsﬁle

‘Really good attacking performance’ as Clare win ﬁrst round under Lohan for third time

by Seamus Hayes

CLARE delivered an excellent attacking performance but will have to shore up defensively, manager Brian Lohan has said.

For the third time in Lohan’s seven seasons in charge, Clare won their ﬁrst game in the Munster SHC when overcoming Waterford 2-33 4-21 on Sunday afternoon in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg.

Lohan was satisﬁed with Clare’s six point win over Peter Queally’s side but admitted the concession of four goals and defensive errors would have him pulling his hair out. “I am pleased with the result and with how we played. Offensively putting up 2-33 is a fair testament to how the team played and to their workrate all over the ﬁeld and it was a really good performance from an attacking perspective”.

Their return of 2-33 almost eclipsed the 3-31 tally which they put on the board against the then Davy Fitzgerald managed Waterford in the ﬁfth round of the 2022 Munster SHC.

Injuries meant league time was scarce for Inagh/Kilnamona’s Seán Rynne in the Allianz National Hurling League but he grabbed the opportunity in Sunday’s championship opener. “It was a very tight call between Seán and a number of others. He went out and did the business. Look I am really happy with all the team. It was a brilliant performance all over the

ﬁeld,” Lohan said.

Selecting a first fifteen was not easy, the manager noted. “It was a very hard job picking the team and that is the case particularly this year. It’s very difficult to pick our first fifteen and then the match day twenty six but that is why we are here”.

Among those to put their hand up when introduced was Diarmuid Stritch of Clonlara who excelled with three second half points. “He was dangerous. He has that lightening pace. I thought he was fouled a couple of times and didn’t get the frees. We have to put up with that sometimes”.

Communication when attacking the ball left Clare exposed in defence, the twotime All-Ireland winning full back believed. “They were getting goals which were keeping them in the game and we will get criticised for that but we will try and improve. Sometimes we were a little over eager today when attacking the ball with two or three contesting when one would have done. It’s a problem for us but we kept responding to the goals”.

He added, “when they got the goals in the ﬁrst half we responded, Tony (Kelly) responded twice and we kept responding. I haven’t seen the free count yet but I am disappointed with the number of frees they got. We will have to look at that”.

Clare’s hurlers are continuing to deliver, he said, “we have asked an awful lot of this team. During the league we asked an aw-

Rynne sets the way in second ever championship start for Clare hurlers

by Páraic McMahon

IN just his second ever championship start for the Clare senior hurlers, Seán Rynne was one of the standout performers in Sunday’s six point win. At wing forward, Rynne demonstrated his ability to time runs off the shoulder to perfection as he clocked up a personal tally of ﬁve points but coupled with this his workrate and physicality ensured his presence was known around the middle third.

It was this attitude that Clare focused on before a ball was pucked in the Munster SHC. “We worked really hard, that was the foundation of the performance, once you are doing that the scores will come. We put a big emphasis before the game on workrate”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, the UL economics student who was drafted into the senior squad in June 2023, outlined that battle to get into the side is as ﬁerce as he has experienced. “There’s savage competition in the squad, it is the most competitive squad since I’ve been on the panel, competi-

ful lot of them. Whether they were going up to the North or to Carlow or wherever we were putting pressure on them and we put pressure on them again for today and they responded. There is great stuff in the team and we are just delighted with them”.

CLARE VS WATERFORD

MUNSTER SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 1

Clare 2-33

Waterford 4-21

Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis

Referee: Shane Hynes (Galway)

Attendance: 18.338

Compiled by Páraic McMahon and Gearoid Howley

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 11 (7/4)

Wides: 7 (3/4)

Spread of scorers: 10

Scores from play: 2-22

Top scorer: Mark Rodgers (0-11 10f 165)

Bookings: Seán Rynne (37), Rory Hayes (48), Conor Cleary (64). Own puckouts won: 23 from 34 (67%)

WATERFORD

Frees for: 15 (8/7)

Wides: 9 (6/3)

Spread of scorers:

Scores from play: 2-9

Top scorer: Stephen Bennett (3-12 12f 1Pen)

Bookings: Stephen Bennett (21), Paddy Leavy (32). Own puckouts won: 24 from 42 (57%)

tion is a great thing, it will always improve the team and the squad so I can’t complain”.

Two points are on the board for Clare after overcoming Waterford but the Inagh/Kilnamona clubman was well aware a lot more needs to be done to ensure a long championship summer. “Every game is going to be tough, no matter where you go, home or away, every team in Munster will be a tough game, we were preparing well for the last few weeks but we were under no illusions as to how difﬁcult it will be to come out of Munster and how the standard is, we will have to keep our heads down and keep putting in performances”. Cusack Park was the setting when he made his championship bow against Tipperary last year, he chipped in with three points then in a ﬁfty nine minute appearance before being replaced for his clubmate David Fitzgerald. When it came to his second start in the championship, Seán made sure to grab the opportunity afforded to him. It was only his third appearance of the year in the

county colours, his ﬁrst was as a substitute versus Carlow on February 28th when he scored a point in a twenty minute cameo while he had three points from midﬁeld in his only other start of the year against Wexford.

Injuries curtailed his availability including for the league final against Dublin but Rynne kept his head down as he made his way into the championship first fifteen “I had a few knocks during the year, all you can do is recover as best you can and try get back onto the pitch, I did plenty of running and you just have to put your hard down and work, there’s nothing else to it, the lads were training hard too, I was trying to keep my hurling as sharp as possible”. An eight point lead with fifty four minutes played had Clare in a commanding position but Waterford were made them sweat till the very end of their first round clash. “Breaks went our way for the first ten minutes of the second half but to be fair to Waterford they never let up, they were always coming back and coming back, we showed good resilience in the end to see it out”.

Clare manager, Brian Lohan

Photo by Ruth Grifﬁn

Seán Rynne

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Club draws bring plenty of sparks Clare vs

by Páraic McMahon

GAA focus has been on the inter-county scene but anticipation for the start of the club championships has gone up a notch for the club championships following the draws for senior, intermediate and junior a grades on Tuesday evening.

In less than three months time, the club championships will kick into gear while across the county preparations continue with leagues ongoing. Some excellent contests lie ahead in the respective campaigns following conﬁrmation of the respective pairings.

As Clare GAA TV were about to go live with the championship draws, a tripped switch led to a power cut and a delay in proceedings. Power returned at 19:09 with Clare GAA referee administrator Rory Hickey who is an electrician by day brought in to help restore electricity to headquarters.

Soon sparks will ﬂy on the club scene with a host of exciting ties to follow over the summer months.

Éire Óg’s defence of the Canon Hamilton in the Clare SHC sees them drawn against Crusheen, Scariff and Broadford. Group 1 will claim a major casualty as one of last year’s quarter-ﬁnalists will fall at the group stage, Ballyea, Inagh/Kilnamona and Clonlara are joined by a youthful St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld.

Unlucky not to be in a county ﬁ-

nal last season, Kilmaley are paired in Group 4 where Brian Culbert will come up against his native Sixmilebridge plus Newmarket-on-Fergus and Wolfe Tones. Clooney/Quin are the seeded team in Group 3 and they are joined with Cratloe, Feakle and O’Callaghans Mills.

For Éire Óg’s bid to win a ﬁfth Clare SFC in six seasons, they are in Group 1 along with Cratloe, St Joseph’s Miltown and Doonbeg. Three of the four teams will progress to the knockout stages.

Beaten ﬁnalists in 2025, St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld are competing with Kildysart in championship for the second year running and they are joined in Group 2 by Ennistymon and Kilmihil meaning Declan Downes will be going up against his native club for the second year running.

Adding to the competitive Clare SFC is Group 3 which has Lissycasey, Coroﬁn, Kilmurry Ibrickane and St Breckans.

TUS Clare Senior Hurling Championship:

Group 1:

Ballyea

Inagh/Kilnamona

Clonlara

St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld

Group 2:

Éire

Óg

Crusheen

Scariff

Broadford

Group 3:

Clooney/Quin

Cratloe

Feakle

O’Callaghans mills

Group 4:

Kilmaley

Newmarket-on-Fergus

Wolfe Tones

Sixmilebridge

TUS Clare Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship:

Group 1:

Whitegate

Coroﬁn

Parteen/Meelick

Tubber

Sixmilebridge

Group 2:

Clarecastle

Ruan

Bodyke

Smith O’Briens

Tulla

TUS Clare Intermediate Hurling Championship:

Group 1:

Killanena

Inagh/Kilnamona

St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld

Broadford

Banner

Group 2:

Kilmaley

Ogonnelloe

O’Callaghans Mills

Scariff

Éire Óg

Martin Murphy Building & Civil Contractor Junior A Hurling Championship: Group 1: Newmarket-on-Fergus

Ballyea

Clonlara

Cratloe

Ennistymon

Group 2:

Clarecastle

Clooney/Quin

Wolfe Tones

Inagh/Kilnamona

Crusheen

TUS Clare Senior Football Championship:

Group 1:

Cratloe

Éire Óg

St Joseph’s Miltown

Doonbeg

Group 2:

St Joseph’s Doora/Bareﬁeld

Ennistymon

Kildysart

Kilmihil

Group 3:

Lissycasey

Coroﬁn

Kilmurry Ibrickane

St Breckan’s

TUS Clare Intermediate Football Championship:

Group 1:

Clondegad

Wolfe Tones

Liscannor

Shannon Gaels

Group 2:

Banner

Naomh Eoin

Coolmeen

Kilrush Shamrocks

Group 3:

Cooraclare

Michael Cusacks

Ennistymon

Killimer

Martin Murphy Building & Civil Contractor Junior A Football Championship: Group 1:

O’Currys

Clarecastle

St Senan’s Kilkee

Éire Óg

Group 2:

Lissycasey

Parteen/Meelick

St Breckans

Clondegad

Group 3:

Kilmurry Ibrickane

Ballyvaughan

Cooraclare

Wolfe Tones

Group 4:

Kilfenora

Clooney/Quin

Cratloe

Coroﬁn

Clare’s Ryan Hayes in possession

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Another Bridge & Newmarket battle awaits in Clare Cup semi-final

by Páraic McMahon

BRIDGE UTD and Newmarket Celtic will face off once again in the semi-ﬁnals of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup.

Fresh from their FAI Junior Cup showdown where Celtic came from 2-0 down to record a 3-2 win, the sides will be meeting in the Premier Division in what is viewed as a title-deciding ﬁxture and they are now set to face off in the semi-ﬁnals of the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup.

Reigning Cup champions Newmarket booked their spot in the last four with a 6-2 quarter-ﬁnal win over Shannon Hibs on Sunday while Bridge Utd who reached the semi-ﬁnals last season overcame Ennis Dons B 3-0.

Sixmilebridge will be the setting for the semi-ﬁnals with Bridge Utd securing home advantage as the ﬁrst name pulled from the draw which took place at Ennis Carpets’ showroom in the Quin Rd Business Park on Monday evening.

Remaining quarter-ﬁnals will be held this coming weekend where Avenue Utd welcome Tulla Utd to Roslevan in what was the tie of the round. Also this weekend, Sporting Ennistymon will host Shannon Town Utd B. The winners of these games are to meet in the semi-ﬁnals which will be played in either Roslevan or The Cragg.

Ennis Carpets Clare Cup semi-ﬁnals:

• Avenue Utd or Tulla Utd vs Sporting Ennistymon or Shannon Town B (to be played on Saturday 30th May)

Bridge Utd vs Newmarket Celtic (to be played on Thursday May 28th or Friday May 29th)

Clare vs Kerry (U20)

Newmarket Celtic win First Division for third year running

by Páraic McMahon

NEWMARKET CELTIC B have won the First Division title for the third year running.

An unbeaten league run saw Newmarket’s second string ﬁnish top of the second tier for the third year on the bounce and it marked back to back titles for manager Brian Arthur.

Clare District Soccer League (CDSL) ﬁxtures secretary, David O’Grady who was full-back on the FAI Junior Cup winning side of 2023 presented the Boru Sports First Division trophy to victorious captain Killian Howard following their 4-4 draw with Moher Celtic on Saturday evening.

Ronan McCormack scored a hat-trick for Celtic but they let a 4-1 lead slip to re-

cord their third draw of the season, Tom Hanrahan scoring the equaliser for the visiting Moher Celtic.

Moher currently sit in second position but Shannon Hibs are just three points behind them and have three extra games to play.

It is the seventh time that Newmarket have won the second tier league. Their dominance at the grade and the continued folding of sides from the Premier Division could yet strengthen the case for them to move up to the top ﬂight.

Alongside McCormack, the Newmarket side also included the experienced Alan Kelly and Seamus Considine alongside ex Galway Utd footballer Adam Gilbert.

Lissycasey move to top of Cusack Cup

SCAN HERE FOR CUP REPORT

Darragh Killeen has been performing well at centre back for Lissycasey

Photo by Gerard O’Neill Clare defender Michael Kelly

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Newmarket Celtic’s Liam O’Connor in action with Aidan Moloney of Bridge Utd Photo by Joe Buckley

Newmarket Celtic B captain Killian Howard with his father Briany Sheedy, a Newmarket Celtic legend

Photo by Joe Buckley

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Hehir happy with Clare’s progress

by Seamus Hayes

While disappointed with the end result on Saturday, joint Clare senior camogie captain Clare Hehir is satisﬁed that “we are up there with them”.

She was referring to the team’s success in division 1 B of the league which has promoted them to the top ﬁght for next season.

They had just forced a highly fancied Waterford side, ﬁnalists in division 1 A, to extra time before losing by the minimum margin in this Munster senior championship preliminary round tie.

“We are right up there”, she said when commenting on the progress the team has made in recent times. It was huge to win the league title last week”, she said.

Asked if having to play so soon after the league success was a factor in this loss she said “ Waterford were in the same boat today as they played their ﬁnal last week. It’s something that the ﬁxture makers need to look at and make sure it doesn’t happen again. Teams need to get a bit of a break between league and championship”.

That said she noted “we have a break now until May 23 when we begin our All-Ireland championship campaign with a home game against Dublin. Our aim will be to qualify from the group but it is an unbelievably competitive group and we will not be looking past the ﬁrst game. We will be taking it one game at a time”, the Inagh/Kilnamona club player said.

Clare are in a group of six for the All-Ireland championship and following their opening game against Dublin which is at a Clare venue they will travel to play Wexford on May 30/31 followed by a home game against Limerick on June 6/7). In round 4 Clare will travel to play Kilkenny on June 20/21 with their ﬁnal group game away to Offaly on June 27/28.

CLARE VS WATERFORD

MUNSTER SENIOR CAMOGIE PRELIMINARY QUARTER-FINAL

Waterford 0-25

Clare 3-15

Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg

Referee: Colm Maher (Cork)

Compiled by Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

WATERFORD

Frees For: 16 (5/4/7)

Wides: 6 (5/1/0)

Scores from play: 0-16

Spread of scorers: 10

Top scorer: Niamh Rockett (0-10 7f 2’45)

Bookings: None

Own puckouts won: 15 out of 21 (71%)

CLARE

Frees For: 13 (6/3/4)

Wides: 3 (0/2/1)

Scores from play: 3-10

Spread of scorers: 7

Top scorer: Lorna McNamara (0-8 4f)

Bookings: None

Own puckouts won: 24 out of 31 (77%)

History beckons for ﬁrst Women’s South of Ireland in Lahinch

by Daragh Small

THIS Saturday sixty golfers will make history at Lahinch when the ﬁrst ever Women’s South of Ireland takes place on the County Clare links.

Flying the Clare ﬂag among them will be Sarah Cunningham of Ennis Golf Club and Aideen Walsh a member of both Lahinch Golf Club and Woodstock Golf Club.

Libby Fleming is one of those vying for the Vaughan trophy and ten months after relocating from USA’s west coast to Kilkenny, she feels very much at home in the Irish countryside.

The 23-year-old who came through Texas Tech alongside Ludvig Aberg and Shannon Tan had planned on taking a step back from competitive golf but could not turn down the chance to be part of history.

“I’m so excited because it’s more opportunities in the Irish amateur scene and it’s only getting stronger. I was in college with Beth Coulter, Áine Donegan and Sara Byrne and I got to meet them two or three years ago for the Irish Close and they’re all doing such good things for Irish golf. It’s inspiring a lot of the younger girls and to have even more opportunities to play on competitive circuits, and also 54 holes.

“Then the affordability of it and being able to play Lahinch, to play in competitive environments at great golf courses. It’s exciting and I hope the girls travel and appreciate what goes on in the background. Participation is only going to increase with this format and it’ll make the Irish amateur scene stronger and hopefully representation on the bigger stages

down the line,” she added.

Fleming hails from Elﬁn Forest in California, her mother, Megan, is English while her father, Patrick, was born and raised in Paulstown, Kilkenny. He emigrated to USA when he was in his late teens and the pair met in Dallas, Texas before they moved to San Diego where Libby and her sister, Phoebe, were born.

Patrick Fleming is a huge golf fan but Libby had contemplated a pathway through the ranks in soccer before she focused her efforts on the smaller ball. “I grew up playing soccer. I always thought I was going to be a professional soccer player and it was my whole life until I was 12, when I picked up a golf club and never put it down.

“So I quit soccer and I played Gaelic football as well for some teams in California and I’m back playing that now too. I played every sport growing up, but it was always soccer and then it just became golf and Gaelic football. My dad is addicted to golf. He plays ﬁve days a week and I would only go out with him once every six months when I was younger, I just didn’t like it and then one day he said I had a God-given talent and I was like, okay, I’ll do it and I loved it since. I love the individual side of it, I can’t rely on anybody else, can’t blame anybody else. I have the most control over it, even though we really don’t, but it feels like we have some sort of control”.

Fleming initially committed to San Diego State University but would end up attending Texas Tech for her studies. She completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing at the Rawls College of Business and that gave her the perfect platform when she

arrived in Ireland last summer.

The 23-year-old joined up with Baxter Edits for content creation and social media storytelling and Pitch Ireland as a Graduate Marketing and Operations Associate. She helped to launch the Pitch Women’s Academy in Dublin before she left them in February and has since focused her efforts elsewhere. “PSD Agri is a seed fertiliser farm, agricultural supplier, and I do their social media and I go to the horse races with Baxter. I’m still getting better at it,” said Fleming.

“There’s a lot of opportunity in Ireland for sports content, storytelling, social media marketing, so I’m diving into that now and seeing what opportunities are out here. I started in agriculture and I don’t know a thing about agriculture. I appreciate farm-

ing so much more since. It’s really fun working with them. I was very new to it. I hadn’t touched or worked with a camera, hadn’t worked with editing software, but deﬁnitely learning as I’m going and it’s getting a lot better.

I don’t know a thing about horse racing either, but I know what looks cool on camera, and I know what people want to see, so I’m doing okay with it, but I’m only a beginner”.

Having taken her mind off competitive golf for a few months when she ﬁrst arrived in Ireland, now she returns with a fresh perspective around playing on the women’s circuit.

The Kilkenny golfer comes back at an opportune moment when women’s golf has received a further boost as the South of Ireland kicks off an historic schedule in 2026.

Castle Dargan will play host to the West of Ireland on the June Bank Holiday weekend before the East goes to Woodbrook on 12 and 13 June and ﬁnally, the North of Ireland in Lough Erne at the end of June.

“When I came over ﬁrst I was just going to play in some of the amateur tournaments, and I did and I just didn’t play well,” said Fleming. “I thought it was going to be different, and it wasn’t, but it really enticed me to see what else I could do because I had a good degree and I just wanted to put the clubs away. I had never taken a week off golf for the last eight years before that and then I basically didn’t touch a club from September to December.

“It was a good reset, I’m in a totally different mindset. It’s just fun now, nice to be outside. Being inside working at a desk for eight or nine hours a day, just itching to be outside again”.

And Fleming is in red hot form coming into this week, fresh off her runner-up ﬁnish behind Shannon Burke at the Cork Scratch Cup last Saturday.

“I bought into a whole different perspective after taking four or ﬁve months off. I’m just out there having fun and there’s really no pressure on it anymore. I put professional golf in the back of my mind now,” said Fleming. “I used to think that was all I had, that’s all I could do, but since I moved to Ireland in June and then working and seeing different things, I can do something else. But I would love for golf to still be a big part of my life, especially in this country, it’s so much more affordable and we play such good courses, so it’s a good balance right now”.

Libby Fleming.

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Hole in one for Rose Enright in Ennis

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

KILMALEY woman Rose Enright was the toast of Ennis Golf Club this weekend.

Rose landed a rare hole in one at Ennis Golf Club on Sunday adding to a ﬁne list of sporting accomplishments on and off the golf course.

The annual St Flannans College past pupils outing took place at Ennis last week when the winner was Gerry Broderick (23) with 36 points. He won on a countback from Raymond Power (17) with third place ﬁlled by T.J. Scanlan (9) with 35 points followed by Gerry Bredin (18) with 34 points. Ronan Herbert won the gross with 27 points.

In the Ennis members section Barry Larkin (10) was the winner with 36 points from Michael Clancy (29) with 35 points with Paul Keane (19) in third place with 34 points. Ian Myatt won the gross with 24 points.

Last week’s senior ladies scramble was won by Brid Cunningham, Claire Kenneally, Jackie Quinlan and Marie Connolly with 25.76 from Marie Dilleen, Maureen Moloney, Judith Brassil and Phil Butler with 27.1.

The overall winner in the weekly ladies 17 hole stableford competition was Vivienne Lawless (47) with 40 points while other winners were Ann O’Loughlin (20) with 30 points (division 1), Maureen Lynch (34) with 30 points (division 2) and Sinéad O’Sullivan (40) with 33 points (division 3).

Audrey McEnery (20) with 19 points won the ladies 8 hole stableford competition.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by

Seán Daly, Des Ryan, Gerry Fitzmaurice and Larry Parks with 67 points from Noel Pyne, Liam McCannon, Terry Hughes and Ferdie O’Donoghue with a similar score. In third place with 66 points were Pat G McInerney, Conor Murphy, Dave Berry and Séamus Hanrahan followed by John Nevin, Kieran Tuohy, Jimmy Kearns and Pádraic Larkin with 65 points. In ﬁfth place with 64 points were Mike Meagher, Gerry Kelly, Matt Flynn and Declan Hanley followed by Liam Pyne, Steve Burns, Frank Cullinan and Michael Cusack, also with 64 points.

The winner of the Friday open singles was Flan Downes (11) with 32 points from Gerry Daly (18) and John Blessington (9) and they also had 32 points CLARE FOOTBALL CLASSIC:

Fifty ﬁve teams played in the Art Data Centres sponsored Clare football golf classic at Woodstock on Thursday and Friday last week.

Weather conditions weren’t the most favourable but good scores were recorded in the event which raises funds to help with the preparation of Clare inter county teams at development squad, minor, under 20 and senior levels

The St. Josephs Doora/ Bareﬁed team of Sean Williams, Raymond Power, Martin Coffey and Gerry O’Connor emerged as winners with 103 points.

In second place with 102 points were the Fexco team of Michael O’Halloran, Matt O’Brien, Pat Curtis and Michael O’Brien. The team representing Syl O’Connor/ Flan O’Neill was third with 101 and the team members were Seamus Cusack, Ed Crowe,

David O’Connor and John O’Shaughnessy.

The Diageo team of Fintan Ward, Jim White, Michael O’Brien and Mark Ward was fourth and they also scored 101 points while ﬁfth spot went to John Lenihan’s team of Alan Neville, Jody O’Connor, Joe McGrath and Pat Carey with 100 points.

John Skerritt junior won the long drive at the 16th while the nearest the pin prize (4th hole) was won by John Nihill.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB:

The men’s competition at Dromoland at the weekend was won by Ruairi Price with 39 points and he won on a countback from Eoghan McNeill with third place ﬁlled by Derek Ryan with 38 points. Vinne Derham won the category for handicappers of 20 and over with 32 points while the gross was won by Jason Ryan with 35 points.

The ladies 18 hole stroke medal competition sponsored by P and M was won by Dorothy Brennan with 70 net from Louise Guilfoyle with72 net with Siobhan Fitzpatrick, also with 72 net in third place. The gross was won by Suzanne McConway.

The ladies 9 hole competition was won by Aislinn Keogh with 20 points from Colette Colleran with 17 points.

SPANISH POINT GOLF CLUB:

The ladies 18 hole stableford competition at Spanish Point last week was won by Sara Hogan with 34 points from Bridget Hayes with 29 points with third place ﬁlled by Val Ross also with 28 points.

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB:

Winner of the men’s East Clare Masters competition

was week was Colm Kelly (17) with 42 points and he won on a countback from Paul Madden (16) who also had 42 points. In third place with 41 points was Paul Hayes (16).

The ladies Green Jumper 18 hole stableford competition last week was won by Noreen Skehan from Maria Kennedy with third place ﬁlled by Deirdre O’Neill, all three scoring 34 points.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Paddy O’Brien, Terry Coughlan and John Fielding from Michael Hayes, Michael Heffernan and John Nihill with Colm Kelly, Steve Symes and Willie Roche in third place.

Winners of Friday’s mixed scramble were .Terry Coughlan, Dominic Stuart, Breda O’ Loghlin and Tadhg Murphy from Colm Kelly, Paul Husband, Mary Farrell and Chris Davis.

SHANNON GOLF CLUB:

The Zurich sponsored Bill Jones medal was the competition for men at Shannon at the weekend when Billy Dunne (11) emerged with the honours with a nett 67.

He won by two from Aaron Costelloe (11) with Mark Gaule (13) in third place with 70 followed by Aron Shanagher (11) with 72, Eoin Collins (6) with 72 and Ray Kiely (7) with 73. Chris Willetts (3) won the gross with 75.

Alan Dempsey (5) won category A with 73 from Darragh Lohan (5) with 74.

Category B was won by Ignatius Cullen (17) with 74 from Fintan Quinn (9) also with 74 while category C was won by Niall Murphy (20) with74 from Anthony Tully (22), also with 74.

The green tee singles was

won by John McPhillips (13) with 36 points from Dave Egan (9) with 34 while Damian Casey (+2) won the gross with 36.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB:

Last weekend’s club singles at Woodstock was won by Tom O’Donohue (20) with 50 points while the gross was won by Ronan O’Looney (6) with 32 points.

The category winners were Gerry Kelly (8) with 35 points, Barry McNamara (13) with 42 points and Tommy Flynn (20) with 41 points.

Winners in the 2’s competition were Kieran Browne (4th hole) and Joe Barry (14th hole).There will be another cub singles this weekend.

Tuesday’s seniors competition was won by Barry Pavitt, Ollie McNamara and Dickie Pyne with 80 points and they had two to spare over Joe Keane, Michael Foley and

The open 18 hole singles stableford competition at Gort at the weekend, sponsored by Gort Road Tyres, Ennis was won by Tom Helebert (22) with 43 points.

The category winners were Mike Grealy (10) with 37 points, Aidan Helebert (12) with 39 points, David McAllen (18) with 42 points and Paul Mee (21) with 38 points.

In the ladies 18 hole singles stableford competition sponsored by Sullivan’s Hotel the category winners were Marcella Killeen (20) with 35 points, Patricia Skehill (27) with 34 points, Fran O’Reilly (32) with 32 points and Margaret Coleman (45) with 29 points.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Pat J Shannon (10) with 31 points was the winner of the weekly competition at Kilrush. He won by one from his namesake Pat Shannon (13) with third spot ﬁlled by Mark Cottam (10) with 28 points.

Tom Browne won the gross.

KILDYSART GOLF SOCIETY: Cregmore Golf Club, was the venue for Kildysart golf society’s latest outing when those involved were favoured with a bright sunny day. New man Josh Bravender won with 37 points on his debut, closely followed by Bryan Hayes on 36 and John McNeilis with 35. John Clancy shot 20 points on the front 9, with reigning champion Mark Cottam scoring 23 points coming in. Things are very tight at the top of the golfer of the year contest after the society’s second outing, with Bernard Coleman just one point ahead.

Bouncing Monarch jumps to Con & Annie Kirby success

by Michael Maher

A brilliant performance from Bouncing Monarch lit up the 2026 Con & Annie Kirby Memorial Final at Limerick on Saturday night as the exciting young star stormed to victory in a new track record time of 27.77.

Trained by Michael O’Donovan, Bouncing Monarch showed electric early pace, ﬂying from traps and immediately taking control of the race. From that moment on, the result was never in doubt, as he powered around the circuit with authority to claim the prestigious title and the €80,000. On a night where the standard of racing was exceptionally high, the ﬁnals of the Sean O’Connor Memorial A1 525 and the Limerick & Clare GOBA A2 525 were also down for decision. The Sean O’Connor Memorial A1 525 has long served as a high-quality supporting act to the Con & Annie Kirby Memorial, and the 2026 renewal of the €5,000-to-the-winner contest

went the way of Brickhill Moana, who produced a near carbon-copy of her semi-ﬁnal success to bring her career tally to twelve victories.

Trained by Vincent McKenna for Clare natives Albert Long and John Collins, Brickhill Moana went to traps as a 2/1 chance following a 28.27 demolition job in the semi-ﬁnals. On this occasion, she again pinged from trap three to immediately put her rivals under pressure. Chased early by Boozed Bonnie on the inside, the daughter of Ballymac Bolger and Twentylittletoes held a two-length advantage before extending further down the back straight, as Kilcolgan Eddie showed marked improvement to move into second. Kilcolgan Eddie looked a serious threat rounding the closing bends; however, Brickhill Moana held ﬁrm, staying on strongly to score by a length and a half in a brilliant 28.24.

The €1,700-to-the-winner Limerick & Clare GOBA A2 525 ﬁnal saw Tyrap Malachi (8/1) striking late in a blanket

finish involving four runners. In the early stages, Tally Ho Rose and Two Chimneys showed best from traps, but the inside line proved decisive for Tally Ho Rose, who tracked well to open a commanding lead entering the back straight. Sheezatwister gave chase, but the leader held an advantage of some four lengths approaching the three-quarter mark. The stronger finishers began to close rapidly in the closing stages and, in a dramatic finish, it was Tyrap Malachi (Malachi & Varra Biddy) who swept around the outside to prevail by a head on the line, the winning time was 28.75.

Owner and trainer Colm Fitzgerald of Kilrush was represented by Tiermana Dream in the open sprint and the 5/2 chance bounced right back to form to get the better of Stonepark Browne in another photo ﬁnish on the night. Donning the white jacket, the son of Ballyhimikin Jet and Tiermana Jetty showed exceptional early speed to hit the front and take a two length

lead around the bottom two bends. The improving Stonepark Browne was eating up the ground in a bid to get back on terms, however, he fell just short as Tiermana Dream scored by a short-head crossing the line, the time was 18.49.

The Final of The Avenue Queen A3 525 Yards Stake generously sponsored by Brian Robinson owner of Avenue Queen who recently was victorious in the Merlin Bar A2 Bitch Stake at the track. The ﬁnal contest on an excellent nights racing was an A4 graded 525 affair in which both Norfolkandchance and Claudegreengrass were away well with the former displaying good pace to lead by a length at the opening bend. Turning down the back the lead was extended to two lengths as Portunma Syd keeping a wide berth went third as the leader passed halfway. Exiting the back straight the Norfolk-And-Chance Syndicate owned Norfolkandchance (Ballyhimikin Jet & Raha Gogo) was

three lengths clear as Portunma Syd joined Claudegreengrass in second place but out front the bird had flown as the Declan McDonagh of Liscannor trained Norfolkandchance lasted it out well to hole the late thrust of Portumna Syd by a length and a half in 29.21. Having seen their charge suffer some unlucky defeats in his seven career starts thus far owners Keith Killilea and Christopher Hennessy were in jubilant form following the A7 graded contest as their Kiltartan Chosen recorded his maiden success by two lengths from Affleck Troy in 29.69. In the early studies Affleck Troy showed pace in the centre of the track to lead Kiltartan Chosen by two lengths rounding the opening bend. Racing down the back Kilatartan Chosen (Ballymac Cashout & Millbank Chosen) immediately cut down the leaders advantage and striking the front at halfway the Albert Mullins of Gort trained runner was always in command from this point.

Eugene Quinn.

GORT GOLF CLUB:

Rose Enright

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

† O’MAHONY (Acknowledgement)

The family of the late John O’Mahony of Coonagh Rd., Limerick, ex garda, ex Collins Steeplejacks, Essco Collins Kilkishen, Clonlara Golf & Leisure Cntr., Wish to express their heartfelt and sincere thanks to those who sympathised with them on their recent bereavement, who attended the funeral, who sent mass cards, letters of sympathy and all who supported them during John’s long illness visiting him in hospital and at their home doing 24 hour shifts in the Regional Hospital and those who helped in many ways too numerous to mention. Please accept this notice as their deep appreciation to all. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, BREAFFY SOUTH, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that C. Moulder intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain the changes made to dwelling house which include the finished floor level, window / door / rooflight positions, roof finish, gutters / downpipes / fascia and the front boundary wall / site entrance along with ancillary site works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ENNISTYMON ROAD, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO.CLARE

Planning permission is being sought by David & Fiona Whelehan for the construction of a part single storey & part two storey dwelling house, detached domestic garage, forming a new site entrance & driveway to the front of the site, forming a new site entrance to the rear of the site and all ancillary site works at Ennistymon Road, Miltown Malbay,

† McCaul (Nee Murray) Castlewood Park Ennis 23rd April 2025 1st Anniversary in memory of Mairead. Missed and never forgotten by her loving daughters Jackie and Fiona, son Brian, his partner Catherine, grandchildren Euan, Daniel and Méabh, extended family and friends.

Prayer

Three Day Novena

Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven.

Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

Oh, Star of the Sea, help me and show me you are my Mother.

Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity.

(Mention your request here)

There are none that can withstand your power.

Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (say three times).

Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands. (say three times). Amen

G.S

Co.Clare.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DEERPARK, BUNRATTY, CO. CLARE

I Gerard McMahon intend to apply to the above authority for permission for retention of a garage to the side of the dwelling house, a shed to the rear of the dwelling house and a rear extension to the dwelling house at Deerpark, Bunratty, Co. Clare, V95 X7F9. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

THE OLD COTTAGE, BALLYREEN, DOOLIN, CO CLARE V95 H7F8.

Take notice that Liviu Utupanu intends to apply for permission to retain: 1. the change of use of the dwelling on site as an existing short‑term letting/ air bnb operation, 2. the revised vehicular entrance location 3. the boundary walls as built on site and for permission to complete the finishes to the new boundary wall and all associated and ancillary site works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS

Development Description: Permission for detached 2 storey dwelling house and detached domestic garage, onsite wastewater treatment system and percolation area, bored well, connection to necessary services, new entrance detail together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works

Location: Killerk East, Ballyea, Co Clare.

Take notice that Leah Erwin has lodged significant further information in re-

spect of planning application P25/60833. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TULLIG, CROSS

Take notice that Conor Downes intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to demolish shed, to erect new dwelling house, foul sewer system, percolation area and new site entrance 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, with-

in 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 UNIT 10, PLACE DE PLOUZANE, KILRUSH TOWN CENTRE, KILRUSH, CO CLARE

Take notice that Erica Burke intends to apply for planning permission for change of use of vacant ground floor retail unit to a two bedroom apartment with alterations to elevations, internal changes along with all associated site works and services at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILCORNAN, ENNISTYMON, CO. CLARE, V95 Y797

Take notice that Grace

Wells intends to apply for planning permission to retain the existing detached Air BnB unit on site for continued short term letting use and all associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYBREEN, KILFENORA, CO CLARE. Take notice that Esme and Billy Wanstall intend to apply for planning permission to build a new dwellinghouse, install a waste water treatment unit and all associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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