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€30m to solve Blake’s Corner bottleneck n Tender process underway n Project set to ﬁnally begin in 2027 n Ennistymon bridge to take 18 months by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

l Kilmaley’s Claire McMahon embraced by her daughter Laoise. The GP had a central role to play in Kilmaley qualifying for a first Clare senior camogie final in 12 years on Saturday. More in Sport Photo by Ruthie Griffin

A VIOLENT incident after an U15 football game in West Clare has been described as “atrocious”. THE “daily nightmare” of driving between Lahinch and Ennistymon is set to ﬁnally end - before this decade is out. Clare Co Council is to spend up to €30m to end one of the most notorious

trafﬁc bottlenecks in the country at Blaker’s Corner. A procurement process for the main contract for a new bridge in Ennistymon is underway and the Council estimate that the works could cost up to €30m. Main works are expected to commence in mid 2027, according to a Council spokesperson and will take about 18 months.

The documentation published is to seek to put in place a shortlist of qualiﬁed candidates to tender for the main contract. Local member of Clare Co Council, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) today welcomed the Council move. He commented that motorists face a “daily nightmare” in the tailbacks at either side of Ennistymon. FULL STORY P2

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Something Special happening in Kilrush

IN SPORT THIS WEEK...

Kilrush had its ﬁrst outing as a collection centre for Special Olympics last Friday, September 18th. Pictured are Kelly Humphries of Aldi making a donation, alongside Eugene Falconer (Collection Team Leader), volunteers Antoinette Carmody and John Barrett.

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Up to €30m earmarked to address notorious Blake’s Corner bottleneck by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council is to spend up to €30m to end one of the most notorious traffic bottlenecks in the country at Blake’s Corner in Ennistymon. This is disclosed in new tender related documentation for the works where the Council has initiated the procurement process for the main contract for a new bridge in Ennistymon and the Council estimate that the works could cost up to €30m. The construction of the new bridge will end the long-standing Blake’s Corner bottleneck that delays tens of thousands of motorists every year on their way to and from the Cliffs of Moher and Lahinch. A spokesperson for the council said that “while it is too early to confirm a definitive construction start date, subject to the completion of the procurement process and all necessary approvals, main works are currently expected to commence in mid 2027”. The spokesperson said the construction duration is approximately 18 months. The documentation published is to seek to put in place a shortlist of qualified candidates to tender for the main contract. Cllr Shane Talty (FF) welcomed the move, commenting that motorists face a “daily nightmare” in the tailbacks at either side of Ennistymon. Cllr Talty said that despite the daily traffic problems Ennistumon has continued to thrive with new businesses in the town. He said that he hoped the disruption would be kept to a minimum during the 18

month construction period. The new bridge - which will be 80 metres upstream of the existing bridge - will involve the demolition of one family home that includes a florist and a local branch of the Dept of Social Protection. The scheme also involves the pedestrianisation of the existing bridge. The project has been bedevilled by delays and the council move to procurement comes four years after An Bord Pleanála confirmed the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) for the project. Two of the objectors to the CPO John and Sheena Clancy, Bogbere Street, Ennistymon told the appeals board that the CPO process has had a significant stressful impact on them as the proposal entails loss of a family home and business in which considerable investment has been made and consider it an inappropriate and disproportionate action by the Council. The Clancys subsequently took a High Court action and the High Court last October refused their leave to take a judicial review action against the CPO. Ms Justice Emily Farrell found that the Clancys’ grounds “do not demonstrate substantial grounds to challenge the decision of the Board”. An oral hearing was held into the CPO application over two days in June 2021 and in response to the objectors who will lose their properties, the council stated that “the home and business property owners will be suitably compensated and that alternative properties are available in the local area”.

THE THE CLARE CLARE ECHO ECHO Thursday, Thursday, Sep Sep 17, 24, 2026 2026

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Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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‘Thank God it never became a physical threat’ - councillors home addresses to be removed by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

CLARE councillors have called for elected representatives’ precise home addresses to be removed from publicly available electoral documents amid concerns over harassment, intimidation and the safety of people in public life. A motion brought by Cllrs Rachel Hartigan (FF), Mary Howard (FG), Rita McInerney (FF) and Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) at the September meeting of Clare County Council calls for electoral legislation to be amended so candidates would not have to publish their precise residential addresses. The councillors said a candidate’s town, village or general locality and county should instead be sufficient to identify their geographical area. The motion said publishing precise residential addresses “serves little additional democratic purpose” and could create unnecessary safety and privacy risks for candidates, elected representatives and their families. The motion follows a series of disturbing phone calls re-

l Cllrs Rita McInerney, Rachel Hartigan and Clare Colleran Molloy (pictured alongside MEP Cynthia Ni Mhurchú) spoke about their concerns of their home address being freely available

ceived by female councillors earlier this year, including Cllr Howard, who reported the matter to Gardaí. Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Rachel Hartigan said the abuse and intimidation female councillors had been subjected to during the summer had the potential to put women off entering politics

and public life. “Thank God it never became a physical threat,” she said. She said the experience had made her more aware of how public and readily available private addresses could be, giving people access to information which could put elected representatives and their families at risk.

Cllr Hartigan said that since becoming an elected representative in 2024, she had received only one or two letters from constituents at her home, with most correspondence instead coming through email or WhatsApp. She said the same was true for many councillors around the country and argued that

a general locality should be sufficient rather than an exact house number. “Everyone doesn’t need to know the exact house an elected representative goes home to,” she said. Deputy Mayor of Ennis Cllr Mary Howard (FG) said she received an “incredibly disturbing phone call” on July 21. She described it as a “bridge too far” and said her home address was immediately removed from the Clare County Council website. “It was absolutely terrifying,” she said, adding that she did not know where the caller was. Cllr Howard said the calls continued until July 31 and that a person had since been identified. She said the caller contacted almost every female councillor and that she was concerned about where the situation could have gone. “Everyone in Ennis knows where I live, those outside Ennis don’t need to,” she said. “It’s so important to have some level of anonymity.” Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) described the proposed change as a “very practical measure” which highlighted a serious issue.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) said she had also received calls and recalled answering a withheld number while waiting for a train before realising who was calling and immediately hanging up. She said there was “really no need” for the specific address of an elected representative to be publicly available and described the proposal as a “no brainer”. Cllr Shane Talty (FF) also supported the motion, saying one of the most sinister lines in a movie is: “We know where you live.” He said there was no reason for the public to know where elected representatives lived, pointing out that councillors’ phone numbers and email addresses were available. Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) said the proposed change would not be enough on its own to address the “toxic environment” created by social media. The motion calls for the issue to be circulated to the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage and to all local authorities for their consideration and support. Funded by the Local Democracy Scheme

All aboard! Ennis town bus service to depart for maidan outing next month by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

THE long-awaited Ennis Town Bus Service will commence operation on Monday, October 18, with two routes set to operate across the town. The start date has been confirmed by Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe. The new service will connect residential areas and workplaces across Ennis, with routes stretching from Clarecastle to Ballymaley and from the Tulla Road to Shanaway Road, with both routes intersecting through Ennis town centre. The service will operate from early morning until late in the evening seven days a week. Buses will operate on both routes every 30 minutes, providing a combined service of four buses an hour through the central section of the town. Mr Crowe said the confirmation of a start date would be “very welcome news” for people in Ennis and surrounding areas. He said the bus stops installed around Ennis in recent weeks would soon come into

l Sean Abeyta from GLAS Civil Engineering with Cllr Mary Howard and Senior Engineer Ennis Municipal District Hugh McGrath at the site of a new bus stop Photo by Eamon Ward

active use. “I am delighted to confirm that the Ennis Town Bus Service will commence operation on Monday 18th October,” he said. “The new service will provide a much-needed public transport option for people travelling within Ennis, connecting residential areas and work places.” Mr Crowe said the timetable is expected to be pub-

lished in the coming weeks and would provide greater clarity for commuters. He thanked Clare County Council, the National Transport Authority and local officials who had worked on the project over the past number of years. “I look forward to seeing passengers using the service from the 18th October,” he said.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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Calls to zone Ennis motorway site for future hospital by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

A CALL has been made for a site on the motorway outside Ennis to be identified and zoned for a future Model 3 or 4 hospital serving Clare. Councillor Pat Daly (FF) made the call at the September meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, saying: “If Pat McDonagh can put in an impressive plaza, there is no reason the HSE cannot put in a new hospital for the people of County Clare.” Cllr Daly asked the Ennis MD to liaise with Clare County Council’s Forward Planning section with a view to ensuring that a site outside Ennis could be zoned in the coming years to accommodate a future hospital. In his written motion, he called for a site that could be purchased by the HSE and made available if the Department of Health, HSE and HIQA sought to improve hospital provi-

l Cllr Pat Daly (inset) argued that if Pat McDonagh can build an impressive Plaza, the HSE can build a new hospital for the people of County Clare

sion in the Midwest. Responding to the motion, Senior Engineer Hugh McGrath said the Ennis MD and Planning Department would have regard to the request as part of the upcoming review of the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029. “Ennis MD together with the Planning Department will have regard to this request as part of the upcoming review of the Clare Coun-

ty Development Plan 2023-2029, where the opportunity will present itself to zone lands for various land uses including those suitable to accommodate medical care,” he said. The council said sites for medical care would need to be considered against a range of planning matters, including access to public transport and road infrastructure, water and wastewater infrastruc-

ture, ecological considerations, proximity to residential areas, access to energy sources, distance from other medical centres and susceptibility to flooding. Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Daly said he had spoken to people over the summer who wanted to see the proposal progress. He pointed to Clare’s population of more than 130,000 and said the county’s existing hospital provision was “just not good enough”. Cllr Daly said “County Clare deserves more” and called for the HSE to purchase a site so it would be available for a future hospital if required. Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), who seconded the motion, said Clare had been “set aside effectively” when it came to hospital provision.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Ennis Lions to #finishthejob LAST year the Ennis Lions Club Radio Auction in partnership with Clare FM raised over €33000 for St. Clares School for special needs children. This was added to a €5,000 donated by ELC. St Clare’s focus was to build a playground that would be inclusive of all children whether able bodied or in a wheelchair. Physical exercise and movement are an essential part of every child’s life but signiﬁcantly more important to facilitate for these children to move and learn in a variety of ways through play. St Clare’s have spent that money buying durable recycled plastic playground equipment (€14000); trampolines for each room along with 3 in-ground trampolines for general use in their sensory garden (€5,000+); and a range of gym equipment for the older children in the school (€4,000). The remaining €15,000 is set aside for the new playground due to be installed in February. In addition to the equipment already purchased they have ordered a universal carousel (€20,000), a variety of swings suitable for all students and wheelchair accessible equipment. All of this will be housed in a play area with a poured rubber surface to ensure the safety of the children. The ﬁnal cost requires an additional €56,000. This year the Lions Club have decided to #FinishtheJob by supporting St Clare’s for a second year to ensure this project reaches completion. Lion President Susan Ward attended St Clare’s last week to announce their commitment to #FinishingtheJob. “Ennis Lions Club had no hesitation in committing to this project again. We saw today the

l Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle & Susan Ward of Ennis Lions value last year’s donations brought to the children. We have seen the plans for the new playground and know St Clare’s have the motivation to complete it if the funds are available. Every child should have the opportunity to play with ease and pleasure - we are going to see this through to the end.” She was joined by Mayor of Ennis Tommy Guilfoyle. “Following my recent tour of St. Clare’s School in my capacity as Mayor of Ennis, I would like to formally encourage everyone to support the Ennis Lions Club Charity Auction. Whether by donating an item, placing a bid, or promoting the initiative, your involvement is highly valued. All proceeds generated between October 13-23 will be directed toward St. Clare’s School to assist their essential work with children with special needs and to facilitate the completion of their new inclusive playground. Every contribution will have a meaningful and lasting impact, so please support.” Email info@ennislionsclub.ie for infor on donating. Auction opens for bidding on October 12. Register to bid at ennislionsclub.ie/auction/.

Massive 13th anniversary sale at Home Trends Furniture INCREDIBLE style at the right price — that is what has kept Home Trends Furniture a favourite on Parnell Street for over a decade. This month, owners Finbar & Eileen Keaveney celebrate 13 years in business and to say thank you to the community, they are throwing their biggest event yet — a spectacular Anniversary Sale with up to 60% off in-store. Everything must go as they clear the floors to prepare for exciting new stock, making this the perfect time to secure premium pieces. Reaching this 13-year milestone is special for Finbar and Eileen. When they opened in 2013, Ireland was in economic recovery. Building a business from scratch while raising a family took hard work and sacrifice. Alongside their team, they poured everything into making the business a success. At the time, their boys, Barry and Stephen, were just five and two. Today, they are young men, and Home Trends has evolved into a cornerstone of the local economy, proudly supporting jobs and keeping business in Clare. WHY YOU NEED TO VISIT: l Unbeatable Anniversary Discounts: Save up to 60% on cozy 3-piece suites, sofa beds, bedframes, armchairs, sturdy dining sets, and premium mattresses. l Complete Home Essentials: Discover matching bedroom collections, alongside study desks and office solutions — all at spectacular prices while stocks last! l Discover Even More Upstairs: The showroom doesn’t stop on the ground floor. Head upstairs to explore more with sofas and dining sets, alongside a treasure trove of rugs, mirrors, and wall art. l Hassle-Free Assembly: Let us do the work for you. For a nominal fee, our skilled team will take care of the assembly. l Expert styling advice: Unsure what

l Eileen and Finbar at Home Trends

matches? Eileen and the team love helping customers piece together colours, rugs, and textures to suit your home’s personality. l Reliable nationwide delivery: Avoid the hassle. Our professional delivery team takes care of everything, providing efficient, friendly, and reliable nationwide delivery straight to your door - while also offering removal & disposal at a nominal fee. Owners Finbar and Eileen said: “We want to say a massive thank you to all our wonderful customers for your incredible loyalty over the past 13 years—we truly wouldn’t be here without you! We warmly invite you to visit us in-store this week to discover amazing style at unbeatable anniversary prices!”

Visit Us today at 29 Parnell Street, Ennis (V95 ED79); Monday to Saturday, 9:30am to 6pm. Call: 065-6797853 / Email: hometrendsennis@ gmail.com Browse Online: www.hometrendsfurniture.ie

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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McMahon’s Olympic legacy lives on in Liscannor by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

LISCANNOR honoured one of its greatest and most proud sons with Olympian Pat McMahon heralded for his achievements. As he returned home to Clare for a family wedding, Pat was the toast of Liscannor with a commemorative plaque unveiled in Liscannor Community Centre on Thursday. Described as “Ireland’s first genuine world-class marathon runner,” Pat represented his country in the 1968 Olympic Games in Mexico. Competing in a very challenging race at high altitude, in which 18 starters failed to finish, Pat produced a remarkable performance to finish 12th in the marathon. At 84 years young, Pat was humbled to be honoured in his native place surrounded by family, friends, supporters and the community of Liscannor for a heart-warming occasion which concluded with a rendition of what else but ‘Liscannor Bay’ by Mia Cronin. Among those in attendance were Catherine Tiernan, Commercial Director for the Olympic Federation of Ireland and Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG). Addressing the crowd, Pat thanked everyone for the accolade. “I came home for a special occasion and it turned into two, my niece Margaret is getting married on Saturday and I have the pleasure of waking her down the aisle. Everything has been top secret since I came home two days ago. I got a lot of awards but nothing like this”.

l Andy Curry, Sean Healy, Pat McMahon and Paddy Guerin and (inset) the plaque

Paddy Brassil, a long-time supporter of Pat’s, made the journey from Cork to attend. The duo first met seven years ago but Tulla native Paddy had followed Pat’s career, taking newspaper cuttings from all his appearances in the media. Moving to England was a turning point in his athletics career where Jim Hogan became a mentor, Pat recalled while also touching on the disappointment of losing the Egg and Spoon race at the Sandfield sports day in North Clare. Arriving for the Olympics in “super shape,” part of his prepara-

tion included winning a marathon in Kansas. Altitude during the ‘68 Olympics made matters difficult for all athletes, “I took an awful beating and it took me a whole year to get back in form, it took so much out of us, I recovered and I started winning”. He did bounce back and finished second in the 1971 Boston Marathon, five seconds behind winner Álvaro Mejía. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Pat admitted, “I’m very emotional with all my relatives. I live in America and I don’t get to see them too much, this was tough to go through.

“They did a great job to recognise me, they were running out of time because I’m almost 85 so we’re lucky we did it now. What a night, especially with all the people coming up, it was really emotional”. Returning to Liscannor every year is important for Pat and his wife Kathy. “It is home, we come through Shannon Airport and the guys says welcome home with the passport, sometimes as I’m flying over I joke that I could stop off at the Cliffs of Moher and walk the rest of the way. “You can take the man out of Liscannor but you can’t take Liscannor out of the man.” McMahon extended thanks to all those who helped throughout his successful career, noting that twotime Olympian Jim Hogan coached him in London and came along to Mexico with him. “He was my mentor, he ran for Ireland in the ‘64 Olympics, I never beat him but if we ran the marathon together in ‘68 I would have! He ran the 10,000m, he helped me big time in my career with coaching and mentoring”. Having served as an inspiration in the past, the presence of Pat’s plaque could yet inspire the next generation of Liscannor runners. “I know there’s some girls in Liscannor that are awesome runners, they are really promising. They have an opportuni-

ty which I didn’t have, luckily I went to London and ran with an elite team because here in Ireland there was nothing for us, races were down in Feakle and Tulla, nothing up here so I had to ride the bicycle down to compete and that was too far”. His advice to aspiring Olympians is, “Follow your dream, you really can do it even though it is long odds, you can’t give up...when Ronnie Delaney won the Olympics, I heard about it and I said to myself ‘I’m going’. I didn’t really want to tell anyone else because they would think I’m cracked”. Having made the journey to Liscannor, Tiernan and Brassil were presented with a St Brigid’s Cross as a reminder to St Brigid’s Well which Bryan Curry of Liscannor Community Development Group noted is “a special place in our parish which I am led to believe Pat walked to yesterday through the fields” and also a gift of ‘Aill na Searrach’ soap from the Moher Soap Company. Kathy McMahon was presented with the same soap and a Connemara Wishing Stone. As Team Ireland’s 256th Olympian, Pat was presented with a green ‘Team Ireland’ jacket. “We hope you will take great pride enjoyment out of wearing it Stateside and we hope you enjoy wearing it around Liscannor too. As a keen golfer Pat, I’m not sure if this is the green jacket you were dreaming of but hopefully you enjoy it none the less”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Ex Clare TD Carey gets new role as public affairs consultant by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

FORMER Clare TD Joe Carey (FG) has been hired to a new role as a public affairs consultant. Clarecastle native Carey has joined Dublin based consultancy group Pinnacle Public Affairs working alongside a former Fine Gael Junior Minister and ex Government advisor. A four-term Clare TD from 2007 until 2024, Joe retired from public life in 2024 on medical grounds. He was first elected to Clare County Council in June 1999 and remained one of Fine Gael’s strongest candidates at a local and countywide level during his twenty five year political career. Pinnacle Public Affairs was founded in 2020 by former Fine Gael TD Paudie Coffey and former Government advisor Paul Fox. During his time in the Dáil, Joe served as chairperson of the Joint Oireachtas Committees on Transport and Communications and Rural and Community Development; in 2020 Joe established the Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group and

l Joe Carey Photo by Joe Buckley

became its chairperson. Of his new role, Carey stated, “After a lifetime of public service; I am now in a position to start an exciting new chapter in my career. Pinnacle Public Affairs is a dynamic, agile and expanding business that has a wide suite of clients across a variety of different sectors in the economy. I look forward to bringing my experience to the team in order to add value to clients’ needs”. In his new role, Joe will provide strategic advice to clients on government relations, public policy, and political communications. Pinnacle Public Affairs have listed regional development, transport and aviation policy, housing, healthcare, education, agriculture, tourism,

infrastructure and community development as areas where Joe has “particular expertise”. Director of Pinnacle Public Affairs, Coffey commented, “I’ve known Joe for almost 30 years and had the opportunity to serve in the Oireachtas alongside Joe during that period. I know that Joe will bring huge value to Pinnacle Public Affairs and our clients and we look forward to working with him as we continue to grow our business. Fellow Director and co-founder Fox said, “It’s fantastic to have Joe Carey join our team. He is a highly popular and respected individual; who served with distinction as a public representative for more than a quarter of a century. We know that Joe’s experience and insights will add greatly to what we offer our clients”. Waterford native Coffey served as a TD for one term, losing his seat in 2016. In July 2014, he was appointed as a Junior Minister. After losing his Dáil seat, he was nominated to the Seanad and retired from politics in December 2019.

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Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

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‘Now is the time’: Renewed push for Sixmilebridge secondary school by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

l Rosie Foley, Women’s Health Week Ambassador; Joan

Tarmey, Healthy Ireland Co-ordinator, Clare County Council; Jessica O’Keefe, Clare Sports Partnership; Cllr Joe Killeen, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council; Ruby O’Donovan and Lauren Lynch, TY Students at St Anne’s Photo by Eamon Ward

Rosie backs women’s health FORMER Ireland rugby international Rosie Foley has launched Women’s Health Week 2026 in Clare alongside students and teachers at St Anne’s Community College in Killaloe. Women’s Health Week takes place from Monday, September 28 to Sunday, October 4, with a programme of events planned across Clare under this year’s theme, ‘Strong at Every Age – Strong Bones. Strong Hearts. Strong Minds.’ The initiative is led by Clare County Council and delivered in partnership with Clare Local Sports Partnership, the HSE and Tusla. A dedicated schools programme for teenage girls will take place in schools across Clare during the week, focusing on menstrual health, self-conﬁdence and mental wellbeing. Community events for adult women will cover areas including bone and cardiovascular health, nutrition, exercise, strength training and healthy ageing. The week will also feature a series of discussions on Morning Focus on Clare FM, with expert contributors discussing different aspects of women’s health. Women’s Health Week Ambassador Rosie Foley, who is also an open water swimmer, said: “I am proud to support Women’s Health Week and the ‘Strong at Every Age’ message. “It was a pleasure to be joined by students and teachers at St Anne’s Community College, Killaloe, in launching this year’s programme. A full programme of Women’s Health Week 2026 events in Clare is available at clarecoco.ie/womenshealth.

CLARE County Council is to contact the Minister for Education over calls for a new secondary school to be established in Sixmilebridge. A notice of motion from Cllr John Crowe (FG) at the September meeting of the Shannon Municipal District called on the council to support the parish of Sixmilebridge and surrounding areas in their efforts to secure a secondary-level school for the town. Cllr Crowe also called on the council to contact Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton TD to highlight what he described as Sixmilebridge’s suitability for a new school, including the availability of suitable infrastructure and an “ideal site”. He said current and projected school-going population figures strongly supported the need for a new secondary school in the town. In a written response, Senior Executive Officer with Shannon MD Suzie Clifford said the need for education services is considered by the council’s Planning Department when preparing and adopting the County Development Plan. This takes account of population trends, settlement patterns, projected growth and other relevant planning and economic considerations within the council’s Economic Directorate. Separately, Ms Clifford confirmed that the Shannon Municipal District office would forward Cllr Crowe’s re-

l CALLS: Cllr John Crowe (FG) quest to the Minister for Education. Cllr Crowe said, “I seem to be coming from a place where there is nothing but problems at the moment,” referring to the number of motions concerning Sixmilebridge on the agenda. He said there were around 1,200 primary school pupils in the area who would progress to secondary school. “Every class is full in the Shannon areas,” he said, adding: “Now is the time to push for a secondary school.” Cllr Crowe said the area had come “fairly close” to securing a secondary school a number of years ago. He argued that the need had since grown, pointing to population growth in the area and the number of children attending primary schools in Sixmilebridge and surrounding areas. Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG), who seconded the motion, said there was “no room in the schools in Shannon” and

highlighted the traffic limitations associated with the existing schools. He also raised the need for secondary schools to accommodate pupils with special educational needs. Referring to Census figures and the number of special needs classes at primary level, Cllr Mulcahy questioned where those pupils would go when they reached secondary school. “It’s a disaster situation for 12 to 18-year-olds accessing schools if they need it,” he said. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) supported the motion, saying he had heard the need for a secondary school in Sixmilebridge raised during the Irish Open to Mayor of Clare Cllr Joe Killeen (FF). He pointed to the growth of nearby Cratloe, where he said around 275 pupils attend the national school, with children having to travel to Shannon or Limerick for secondary education. Cllr O’Gorman said houses were being built and children were moving into the area, adding: “If not done now, putting it in after the fact — it’s now we need it.” Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Shannon MD Cllr David Griffin (FF) also supported the motion, saying Cllr Crowe had done “a lot of work on the ground” to identify possible sites. Cllr Crowe said a petition had gathered 700 signatures, adding that people were now recognising the “seriousness” of the issue. “We need to push and get it over the line,” he said. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Teenage ‘Tiktok’ car thief gets six months in detention by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

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A judge has sentenced a teenager to six months detention for a spate of car thefts at locations in Limerick city, Clare and Tipperary including car-thefts posted on social media platforms. Gardai identified the teenager carrying out a number of car thefts from footage on TikTok, Snapchat and other ‘open source social media’. The Limerick accused was aged 13 at the time and pleaded guilty to seven car thefts at locations in Limerick, Clare and Tipperary in 2024 and 2025. At Ennis District Court, Judge Adrian Harris said that there were “a number of serious offences” before the court. Judge Harris imposed a detention order on the teen - now 15 - to March 21 next at Oberstown Detention Facility and Sgt Shane Graham told Judge Harris that there is reference to high risk of reoffending in the teenager’s Probation Report “and we expect that will happen when he is out in March”. Sgt Graham said that any time the teenager “has been out of custody we have had

an influx of offences that we have to investigate resulting in charges coming back before the court”. Judge Harris said that as part of his detention order to March 21 next the teenager will have six months post release supervision by the Probation Service. The sentence imposed by Judge Harris won’t add any additional time to the boy’s time in detention at Oberstown as he is already serving a sentence to March 21 next for a separate offence. Judge Harris told Sgt Graham that he takes on board the findings of the Probation Report over the high risk of re-offending but stated that the teen has already been in detention for 12 months. Judge Harris said that the Probation Report had highlighted the boy’s association with peers, drug use, impulsivity when concluding that he is at high risk of re-offending. Addressing the youth, who was appearing via video link from a booth in Oberstown Detention Facility, Judge Harris said that “the bottom line is that you take the opportunity you’re being given

otherwise we will be seeing a lot more of each other and that would not be good for you”. In reply the teenager - represented by solicitor, Shiofra Hassett - replied “thank you very much”. Judge Harris said he hoped that the teenager’s interaction with the Probation Service will mean that he may not be seen again in court. In the case the boy pleaded guilty to seven car thefts including four in the Limerick area. Outlining the evidence in the case previously, Sgt Graham said that in a car theft at O’Brien’s Park, Clare Street, Limerick on July 4th 2024 three youths forced the driver’s door opening with a crow bar and drove off. Sgt Graham said the youths had a zipped hood to cover their faces but Gardai were able to identify the accused “from open source social media”. In relation to a car theft at Patrick Street, Clarecastle, on September 23, 2024, Sgt Graham said Gardai were able to identify the accused from social media, CCTV and DNA that matched a blood sample found in the car.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Councillors seek meeting with new Shannon Airport Group CEO over airport’s future by Paige Foley news@clareecho.ie

CLARE councillors have called for a meeting with the new CEO of the Shannon Airport Group to discuss developments and future opportunities at Shannon Airport. The call was made by Cllr David Griffin (FF) at the September meeting of Clare County Council. In a Notice of Motion, Cllr Griffin welcomed the appointment of Ray O’Driscoll as CEO of the Shannon Airport Group earlier this year and invited him to meet with elected members. The proposed meeting would discuss ongoing developments at the airport, future development opportunities and its potential role as a hub for testing new aviation technologies. Cllr Griffin also said the meeting could explore how the airport and Clare County Council could continue to work together on the county’s tourism offering. Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Griffin welcomed Mr O’Driscoll’s appointment

l Ray O’Driscoll

and said it was great to see Shannon Airport going from strength to strength. He also highlighted what he described as a 16-year high in investment at the airport. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF), who seconded the motion, supported the proposal. Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) said the motion was important, describing Shannon Airport as a driver of economic activity and job creation. Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) also described the motion as “very important”, saying the airport was a huge asset for

the county. He highlighted the securing of a new Air Canada route between Shannon and Toronto as a major achievement, describing Shannon as a gateway to North America. Cllr Shannon also acknowledged the contribution of Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary to the airport. Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) supported the motion and reflected on Shannon Airport’s position in 2011, when he said Shannon was an “industrial wasteland”. He said the airport had since been “revolutionalised and changed” and described its progress as a “phenomenal success”. The discussion comes shortly after Air Canada announced plans for a new seasonal non-stop service between Shannon and Toronto from June 10 to October 3, 2027. The service will operate three times a week and will provide a direct connection between Shannon and Canada. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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News

Clare launches its first ever Age Friendly Week CLARE County Council’s Age Friendly Programme is delighted to announce the inaugural Clare Age Friendly Week, taking place from 28 September to 2 October 2026. The week-long programme celebrates positive ageing and showcases the many opportunities, services, and supports available to older people throughout County Clare. The first Clare Age Friendly Week will bring together older people, community groups, service providers, artists, and organisations for a series of free and inclusive events designed to promote health, wellbeing, creativity, participation, and social connection. From sport and physical activity to art, culture, and information

sharing, the programme highlights the valuable contribution older people make to communities across the county. The week will officially commence on Monday, 28 September, with the Age Friendly Regional Sports Day at the University of Limerick. The event will welcome older adults from across the region to enjoy a funfilled day of sport, activity, and social engagement, encouraging active ageing and participation for people of all abilities. On Tuesday, 29 September, glór will host the launch of the Cé Mise Art Exhibition by artist Rachel MacManus. The exhibition features a collection of portraits and personal stories celebrating

the lives and experiences of residents from St. Joseph’s Nursing Home and Clarecastle Day Care Centre, offering a powerful reflection on identity, memory, and community. A major highlight of the week will be the Health & Wellbeing Expo at the West County Hotel on Thursday, 1 October. The expo will provide information on local services, activities, and supports that help people remain healthy, active, and connected in their communities. Visitors will have the opportunity to meet a range of organisations, access expert advice, and participate in demonstrations and wellness activities. The celebrations conclude on Friday, 2 October, with

the Carrigoran Age of Creativity Event at Carrigoran Health and Wellness Centre. The event will showcase the artistic talents of older people through art and craft displays, poetry, music, and readings, reinforcing the message that creativity can flourish at every stage of life. Speaking about the initiative, the Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager Shanelle Waring said: “Clare Age Friendly Week is an opportunity to celebrate older people and recognise their enormous contribution to our communities. We encourage people of all ages to come along, learn about the supports available, enjoy the events on offer, and help build an Age Friendly county where everyone can participate, stay

connected, and age well.” All events are free to attend, although advance booking is required for the Age Friendly Regional Sports Day. Further information can be obtained from the Clare

Age Friendly Team Shanelle & Yvonne by emailing agefriendlyclare@clarecoco.ie or calling 065 684 6240.

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

33 State witnesses to be called in child porn case by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

There are 33 State witnesses due to be called in the trial of a Clare man who is charged with the alleged unlawful possession of 947 videos and 1,725 images of child abuse material on different dates over a two year period. At Ennis Circuit Court, counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford BL said that 33 witness summons will have to be issued ahead of the trial listed to commence next month. However, counsel for the accused, Aaron Desmond BL asked that Judge Francis Comerford vacate the trial date as he was unable to consult with his client earlier this month due to circumstances outside their control. Judge Comerford said that he didn’t see the sense of issuing 33 witness orders if the defence is not in a position to proceed. The accused was appearing via video-link from the Midlands Prison and Judge Comerford said to him that if his trial date is vacated it will not be until the New Year before it could proceed. Judge Comerford further remanded the accused in custody to appear before court on October 13 but vacated the trial date and left the matter for mention. Judge Comerford told the court that one way or the other a jury trial won’t be heard until the New Year. In the case, the man - who was of no ﬁxed abode before being held on remand in custody - appeared in connection with 14 child abuse material and child exploitation charges. In nine of the 14 charges, the man is accused of knowingly publishing and encouraging distribution of child pornography for the purpose of distribution, publication exportation, sale or show contrary to Section 5(1) of the Child Trafﬁcking and Pornography Act, 1998. In one charge, the man is accused of at an Ennis address of having in possession 1,559 images and 794 videos of child pornography on a ZTE Axaon Mini mobile device. The man is also charged on a date between May 12-13 2023 at his Ennis address, did communicate with another person, including a child, for the purpose of facilitating the sexual exploitation of a child under the age of 17 years, by that person or any other person. This charge is contrary to Section 8(1) of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences) Act 2017.

Shannon-Bunratty walking trail moves one step closer by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

PLANS for a walking trail linking Shannon and Bunratty have moved forward with Clare County Council confirming that an Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding application has been submitted. The update was given at the September meeting of the Shannon Municipal District following a Notice of Motion from Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG). Cllr Mulcahy asked whether an application could be submitted under the ORIS for the development of a walking trail between Shannon and Bunratty. In a written response, Senior Executive Officer Suzie Clifford confirmed that an application had already been submitted. “Shannon Municipal District has submitted an Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) funding application to the Planning, Economic, Rural and Community Development Direc-

l Cllr Tony Mulcahy (inset) asked whether an application could be submitted for the development of a walking trail between Shannon and Bunratty (pictured)

torate for a Shannon to Bunratty Trail,” she said. “Multiple stakeholders provided the Municipal District with letters of support.” Cllr Mulcahy said he was happy with the response and that it would be “fantastic to get it in place”. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF),

who seconded the motion, said discussions had already taken place with farmers in Shannon and Bunratty about the proposed trail route and allowing people to pass through their land. However, he said the project appeared to have “come to a full stop” once Transport

Infrastructure Ireland (TII) became involved. Cllr O’Gorman said €100,000 had been received the previous year “to bring it forward another bit”, but suggested progress had stalled following TII’s involvement. He said a similar issue had arisen with a footpath in Cratloe near the main road. “Hopefully it will progress,” he said. Council officials said an alternative route was also being examined, with the route previously discussed by Cllr O’Gorman having received significant support. They said the Shannon-Bunratty link remained on the council’s radar because of its potential economic benefits for Shannon and the wider region. Officials said work was continuing to find an alternative solution that would allow the project to progress, with an official saying: “If it can’t happen one way, we will try to do it another.” Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

West Clare

Girl power in Spanish Point Work to begin on floodlights, shower upgrades in Kilrush by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Kilrush Sports complex is set for a facilities boost with the announcement that work will commence on floodlights and dressing rooms at the popular facility. Work is to begin on refurbishing the dressing rooms and lighting up the cross-country and walking track. The two projects are being progressed by Clare County Council, supported through Sport Ireland funding programmes. The project - delivering modern upgraded changing and shower facilities for local sports clubs - has a total value of approximately €145,000, with Clare County Council providing a 25 per cent funding contribution alongside support from Sport Ireland. In addition, the Council has received approval to progress a new cross-country and walking track lighting project at the complex, with works expected to commence shortly. The project is valued at €96,000 and is also supported through Sport Ireland funding, with Clare County Council providing a 25% funding contribution towards the delivery of the works. The two projects represent a significant investment in sports and

l Anne Rynne, Doutsen Roelofs, Dr. Claire Watts, Linda Hebenstreit, Noirin Lynch, Trish Flanagan perform at ‘A Woman’s Place: Songs of Home and Beyond’ in Christ Church, Spanish Point, as part of Culture Night last weekend. Photo by Jack Hegarty

l Kilrush Sports Complex

recreation infrastructure in West Clare and will enhance opportunities for participation across a wide range of sporting and community activities. The dressing room refurbishment will improve facilities for teams and athletes, while the new lighting installation will extend the usability of the cross-country and walking track throughout the year. Director of Services for Tourism, Festivals, Libraries & Cultural Services, Siobhán McNulty said, “The Kilrush Sports Complex plays a vital role in supporting local clubs, schools and community groups across West Clare. These projects will significantly enhance the facilities available to users, providing

modern dressing room amenities and improving year-round access to the walking and cross-country track.” Clare County Councillor, Ian Lynch said, “These projects demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting healthy communities, active lifestyles, and the continued development of accessible sporting facilities throughout County Clare. We are grateful for the support of Sport Ireland in helping to deliver these important projects, which will benefit sports clubs, community groups, schools, and recreational users across West Clare for many years to come.”

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Kildysart’s Frankie honoured

A Kildysart fundraising effort has received national recognition for its volunteer work for its local hospice service provider, Milford Care Centre in Limerick. Frankie O’Shea, who raises funds each year for the centre, does so in tribute to his late wife Philomena, who passed away in 2023. Philomena and her cousin, Sheila Hill, fundraised for the local Cahercalla Hospice in Ennis for 20 years before it partnered with Milford. And while she did not require hospice care before her death, Frankie continued the fundraising efforts to commemorate Philomena. His work was honoured with a Together for Hospice National Super Host Award at a recent ceremony at St Francis Hospice in Dublin’s Blanchardstown. Running right across Ireland, Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice aims to raise over €2million and takes place on Thursday, September 24. However, supporters can host or attend a coffee morning on a date that suits them, with every cent raised going to their local hospice. “Philomena and I were well aware of what hospice care meant and the numbers who would need it. That was the thinking,” said Frankie, who has now moved to organising a fundraising rafﬂe at The Square in Kildysart.

“Philomena and Sheila set up the coffee morning. It was not about someone they knew. It was about the facility. “That was Philomena’s style. She was very caring and was always prepared to make an effort in any way she could. “We are coming up on a quarter of a century fundraising for hospice now. Over the past 12 years we have raised just short of €30,000.” According to Mary O’Brien, CEO, Milford Hospice Homecare, support of Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice is invaluable and funds vital services and quality initiatives, greatly improving care for patients with life-limiting illness. “Ireland’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Hospice, one of our longest and most-loved fundraisers, is now in its 34th year raising funds for Hospice in-patient and community services around Ireland,” she said. Funds raised through Together For Hospice campaigns support some of the core services funded by the HSE. Register to host a coffee morning on a date that suits you – at hospicecoffeemorning.ie or call 0818 995 996. If you cannot host or attend a coffee morning, you can donate at: hospicecoffeemorning.ie/donate

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Feb 26, 2026

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180 years of church in Clouna

Regional News

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

The first talk in the North Clare Historical Society’s Autumn/Winter lecture series will be on Monday next, where guest speaker Martin Barry will discuss ‘A Focal Point for a Community for 180 years: St. Columba’s Catholic Church Clouna 1846-2026’. In 2026, St Columba’s Church Clouna celebrated 180 years in existence. The lecture focuses on the church and surrounding area over this period. It will recount stories of famine, emigration, local organization, fighting spirit, sporting endeavor and musical prowess. A place where people worked, played, endured and enjoyed life. Martin comes from the townland of Drinagh, about six miles from Ennistymon. He has had a lifelong interest in history and particularly local history. He returned to education and qualified from the University of Limerick with an honour’s degree having majored in History. He has conducted tours to

Dréachtphlean Bainistíochta Bruscair / Draft Litter Management Plan Beidh cóip den Dréachtphlean Bainistíochta Bruscair ar fáil lena hiniúchadh ag an bpobal ón 24 Meán Fómhair 2026 go dtí an 22 Deireadh Fómhair 2026 le linn gnáthuaireanta oscailte ag: An Rannóg Comhshaoil, Comhairle Contae an Chláir, An Bóthar Nua, Inis, Co. an Chláir Tá an dréachtphlean ar fáil freisin lena hiniúchadh ag Oifigí Ceantair Bhardasaigh Chomhairle Contae an Chláir. Tá an dréachtphlean ar fáil freisin ar www.clarecoco.ie nó tríd an gcód QR a scanadh. A copy of the Draft Litter Management Plan is available for public inspection from 24 September 2026 to 22 October 2026 during normal opening hours at: Environment Section, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare

local areas of historical interest and has also contributed a number of articles to the historical journal The Other Clare. Currently he works as a tutor with the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board focusing on history and heritage subjects. The talk will be held on Monday, September 28, at the Courthouse, Ennistymon at 8pm. All are welcome.

The draft plan is also available for inspection at Clare County Council Municipal District Offices. The draft plan can also be viewed online at www.clarecoco.ie or by scanning the QR code.

Abair Do Thuairim / Have Your Say Fáiltíonn Comhairle Contae an Chláir roimh thuairimí agus aighneachtaí maidir leis an Dréachtphlean Bainistíochta Bruscair. Clare County Council welcomes comments and observations on the Draft Litter Management Plan. Is féidir aighneachtaí a dhéanamh / Submissions may be made:

Notes

ELECTRICITY SWITCHING EVENING IN INAGH There will be an Electricity Switching Evening in the hall in Inagh on Thursday Sept 24th at 7:30. You can learn how to save money by switching electricity supplier. If people haven’t switched for a couple of years, they can typically save €200 or more by moving to the best prices. At the event, organisers will take you through the quick process to switch, you’ll just need to bring a recent electricity bill with you and a meter reading. This event is part of the Energy Master Plan for Inagh funded by SEAI and being run with Inagh Development.

•

Ar líne ag www.clarecoco.ie Online at www.clarecoco.ie

•

Trí ríomhphost chuig enviroff@clarecoco.ie By email to enviroff@clarecoco.ie

•

Nó i scríbhinn chuig / Or in writing to: Oifigeach Foirne / Staff Officer, An Rannóg Comhshaoil / Environment Section, Comhairle Contae an Chláir / Clare County Council, An Bóthar Nua, Inis, Co. an Chláir / New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare

•

An spriocdháta d’aighneachtaí: 23 Deireadh Fómhair 2026 Closing date for submissions: 23 October 2026.

50 years of fáilte at Aillwee

Calling all past & present team members by Paige Foley news@clareecho.ie

FIFTY years of discovery, adventure and unforgettable memories – and what better way to celebrate than with the people who have been part of the journey? This year marks 50 years since Aillwee Cave first opened its doors to visitors, beginning a remarkable story that has seen generations of visitors explore the wonders beneath the Burren and enjoy the unique experience that Aillwee has become known for. To mark this special milestone, Aillwee Burren Experience is inviting past and present team members to come together for an evening of celebration, reminisc-

ing and plenty of craic. Taking place on Saturday October 10 from 5-9pm, the evening will be a chance to catch up with old friends and colleagues, share memories and celebrate the many people who have helped make Aillwee what it is today. With food and drink served and lots of great entertainment, it promises to be a wonderful evening of memories, laughter and celebration. So, if you’ve been part of the Aillwee story over the past 50 years, the team at Aillwee would love you to join them and raise a glass to five decades of Fáilte! Past and present team members can RSVP to info@aillweecave.ie by Friday 2 October.

Join us as we celebrate 50 years of discovery, adventure and unforgettable memories of Aillwee Cave. Celebrate this remarkable milestone with us at a special party evening. Saturday

October

RSVP

5pm - 9pm

Aillwee Burren Experience

Lots of great entertainment. Food & drink served.

info@aillweecave.ie by Friday 2nd October

Thursday, Aug 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Ennis News

Four deep cleans a year - but state of town centre ‘disheartening’ by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

QUESTIONS have been raised about the cleaning of Ennis town centre following the completion of extensive public realm works across the town earlier this year. The town centre is set to receive four deep cleans each year, with a councillor questioning whether that will be enough to maintain the newly upgraded public realm. The number of cleans provided for under a contract secured by the Ennis Municipal District was confirmed at this month’s meeting following a question from Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). In her question, Cllr Colleran Molloy welcomed the standard of cleaning carried out in the town in late July and asked whether there was a regular schedule for deep cleaning going forward to ensure the ongoing maintenance and upkeep of the town centre. Tom Mellett, Senior Executive Engineer, said the Ennis MD had pro-

l Questions were raised by Clare County Councillor Clare Colleran Molloy over whether a deep clean four times a year is enough

cured a deep-clean contract covering the streets included in the Public Realm project. He said this would complement the ongoing maintenance carried out by the Ennis MD cleansing team, adding that the timing of the deep cleans would also take account of factors including weather conditions and large events such as GAA matches.

‘Two years is too long’ for traffic calming at Hawthorn

TRAFFIC calming measures at Hawthorn Estate are to be reviewed again by Clare County Council, after councillors raised concerns about speeding and road safety in the area, reports Paige Foley. The update came at the September meeting of the Ennis Municipal District following a question from Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), who sought an update on the previously agreed installation of speed ramps and signage at the estate. In a written response, Senior Executive Engineer Tom Mellett said the estate had been considered for traffic calming measures but that no funding had been identified. “However, Ennis MD will again review the estate to see if there are any measures that can be examined subject to funding,” he said. Cllr O’Callaghan said the measures had been agreed around two years ago and that the estate had become busier since then. "People are going to get hurt if people don't slow down," he said. He highlighted the increased traffic had created a greater danger and that someone could get hurt if measures were not introduced. Cllr O’Callaghan said he found the council’s response “very frustrating”, particularly because funding had continued to be an obstacle. “Two years is too long,” he said. Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) said she hoped the introduction of new speed limits would help when residential areas move to a 30km/h limit. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Colleran Molloy said it was “disheartening” to see the state of the town during the summer after the efforts made through the public realm works. She noted that while the council had a contracted team in place, she had sought clarity on how often the deep cleaning would take place. Mr Mellett confirmed

that the contract provides for four deep cleans per year, with the schedule to be determined according to requirements and alongside the work carried out by the council’s own crews. Cllr Colleran Molloy asked how the figure of four cleans had been determined and whether it was based on cost. She said she would have considered a deep clean every two months to be more appropriate. Mr Mellett said the number of cleans was partly based on available resources and the specific cleaning method recommended by the project architect. He added that the arrangement would be kept under review, with additional cleaning possible if required throughout the year. Mr Mellett also said the recently improved public realm would require increased resources and budget to maintain the standards achieved. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Miss Universe Ireland to open Jack and Jill in Ennis The Jack and Jill Charity Boutique in Ennis will celebrate its official opening as part of the charity’s nationwide Power Hour campaign. Current Miss Universe Ireland, Aideen Howard, will be the special guest and will cut the ribbon at 1pm on Friday, September 25, at the shop’s new location at Clare Road Mall, Ennis. The celebrations will run from 12 noon to 2pm, with a bake sale, refreshments, a pop-up furniture sale and a raffle featuring a range of prizes. Raffle tickets are available in the shop for €2 per line or three lines for €5. Jack and Jill currently supports seven families in County Clare, providing

in-home nursing care and respite support to families caring for children with severe learning disabilities and complex medical needs. Every €20 raised through Power Hour funds one hour of vital care for a Jack and Jill family.

l Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle, Mayor of Ennis and Chair of Ennis Purple Flag Working Group, Siobhan O’Keeffe (Nora Culligans), Dolores Meaney (Library Services), Margaret Whitworth (Ennis Chamber), Garda Irene O’Flynn, Hugh McGrath, Niamh O’Connor (both Clare County Council Ennis MD), Jean O’Keeffe, CYS,and Margaret O’Brien, Ennis Chamber

We’ll paint the town purple by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

ENNIS is celebrating after receiving Purple Flag accreditation, a recognition of its commitment to creating a dynamic, secure, and vibrant evening and night-time economy. Following an overnight assessment (5pm to 5am) the appointed Purple Flag assessors gave Ennis the green light for continued Purple Flag accreditation. The assessors had full disclosure to crime stats for the past three years and liaised closely with Gardai on the overnight assessment. Purple Flag aims to raise the standard and broaden the appeal of town and city centres between the hours of 5pm and 5am. This prestigious award highlights Ennis’s blend of entertainment, dining and culture, all while ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors in the evening and night-time economy. A spokesperson for the ATCM (Association of Town Centre Management) commented, “Key successes in Ennis’s submission include the fantastic offering through the De Valera County Library and Súil Gallery, which opened in late 2024, alongside Glór, a brilliant concert and events venue.” Margaret O’Brien, CEO, Ennis Chamber and co-ordinator of Ennis Purple Flag said, “Over the 8 years I have been involved in Purple Flag assessments, like all towns and cities, the nighttime economy in Ennis has undergone significant change. “Late-night gyms are likely to be as busy as pubs, and many of those have closed over that time. While we can’t control a change in habits and preferences the businesses in Ennis can cater for changing tastes. There’s a real opportunity to continue our daytime economy into our nighttime economy and thankfully some businesses in Ennis have already risen to meet that opportunity. “For example, Kaiféin, the coffeehouse on the corner of The Queens Hotel opens late until 9pm at weekends, while The Well Café, O’Connell Street offers a series of evening time events across the year, including a regular bookclub, fashion shows and seasonal supper club. We need more of these sorts of initiatives to drive footfall into the evening time.” Ennis is one of 9 areas receiving a Full Renewal accreditation across the island of Ireland, with 8 areas receiving an Interim Renewal accreditation, so far this year.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2023

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Festival

Harvest Music Festival growing strong HARVEST Music & Garden Festival is this year expanding with a second stage, a wide variety of workshops, add-on events and more arts and crafts displays. Taking place at Ennis Showgrounds on September 27, it is a sister event to Clare Garden Festival celebrating Harvest Time with the joy of music at the wind-down of the season. A total of 9 bands will be playing on the day including Los Paddys Continental Clare, who are involved since the festival started in 2024. Paddy Mulcahy of Los Paddys said: “It’s exciting to see this festival grow and I am delighted to be involved again. This year we will be joined on stage by megaTrad, an up-and coming Trad band based on folk roots with electronic beats and effects on stage from 11am - so get there early. “After 12pm, enjoy the Latin vibes of Latin Fellas & Co and then you we’ll be entertaining you with our music and dance show by Los Paddys. “Popular bluegrass band The FakeMcCoys will be on-stage by 3pm and the great trio of Floriane Blancke, Quentin Cooper and this year joined by drummer Brian Fleming will be the last act finishing by 5pm. From 2pm, we ll be getting competition as the new Pink Potato stage led by Nick Bromfield and featuring 4 new bands will be kicking off!” The festival workshops and demos are doubling this year to include music, gardening, cooking & fermenting, yoga, upcycling, instrument repair and even circus. The two most popular workshops Drum Circle, this year with Brian

Fleming and the Kids Music Workshop with music educator Alain Halimi are of course returning. Festival manager Carmen Cronin said: “Between the bands, the workshops and the stalls, we are packing in a lot of music, activity and fun for everyone. “There will be plenty of indoor spaces in use and we will have over 30 interactive stalls of which several are charities, like the Irish Guidedogs for the Blind, the Ennis Womens Group and our wonderful fire fighters of Ennis Fire brigade. “Finally, in the run-up to the festival, a small fringe of events is running including our Launch which we had at the Height, a drumming workshop in Kilnamona and a live performance at the Ennis Gourmet Store plaza in town. All details are on the festival website.” Harvest Music & Garden Festival is supported by Clare County council, Ennis Municipal District, Visit Clare, Healthy Clare, Pobal, the Government of Ireland and Greener Clare and is run in association with Clare Agricultural Show society. Tickets to the festival can be bought from the festival website and will be available at the entrance at Ennis Showgrounds on Sunday, 27th September, with adult admission of €8, 2 adults for €15 and supervised children and teenagers go free. Parking is as always free-of-charge and this year there are no additional charges for workshops.

More details from our Facebook page @harvestmusicgardenfestival and from our website www.harvestmusicfestival.ie.

l FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Harvest Festival team with Mayor Cllr. Tommy Guilfoyle, Lenka Fairy and Paddy Mulcahy of Los Paddys, Nick Bromfield of UR Productions, Siobhan Gallagher of Colourful Creations Garden Centre and festival manager Carmen Cronin

Ralph McTell brings final tour to Clare

LEGENDARY British singer-songwriter Ralph McTell will embark on his final national tour of Ireland, Somewhere Down the Road, with one of his last performances taking place in Ennis. The farewell tour will see McTell return to venues across the country for one last run of live dates, offering audiences a chance to celebrate a remarkable career that has spanned more than half a century. The tour will comprise 16 shows over 3 weeks, open-

ing in Navan on October 17 and concluding in Galway on November 8. He is set to play glór Theatre in Ennis on Thursday, November 5. Set to turn 82 this year, McTell’s relationship with Irish audiences stretches back more than five decades, beginning with his debut Belfast appearance in 1969, and has since grown through performances in renowned venues across the country, where his storytelling continues to resonate with listeners of every generation.

Ralph McTell has always been open with his audience, and in recent years, he has faced personal health challenges. Diagnosed with prostate cancer, he continues to tour and create music. This final tour promises to be a fitting and heartfelt farewell to Irish audiences who have supported McTell since his earliest appearances on the island. Tickets for ‘Somewhere Down the Road’ are on sale now from www.ralphmctell. com

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Shannon

Over a million fly through Shannon this summer

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Airport had over one million passengers this summer. In what was an 11.5 percent increase on summer passenger traffic between 2025 and 2026 from May to August, Shannon Airport hit the milestone of more than one million summer passengers. Summer growth at Shannon follows a particularly strong start to the season, with Shannon Airport named Ireland’s fastest-growing major airport for three consecutive months in May, June, and July, according to the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation (ITIC). For the first six months of 2026, Shannon Airport’s passenger numbers were up 12 percent compared to the same period of 2025. Network expansion continues at Shannon with the addition of five new routes this year to Warsaw, Madrid, Rome, Poznań

‘Eyesore’ burial ground wall faces renewed calls for rebuild by Paige Foley news@clareecho.ie

l Shannon Airport is up 12 per cent on last year

and Frankfurt. Forty routes have been running from Shannon during the year including five daily transatlantic services at the height of the summer season. Barcelona, Faro, Málaga and Alicante were among the popular European sun destinations, while London, Manchester, New York, Boston, and Chicago continued to provide important connectivity to the UK and US. Niall Kearns, Airport Director of Shannon Airport, said: “Passing the one million passenger mark across the four summer months is a fantastic milestone for Shannon Airport and reflects the strong

demand we are seeing across our network. The addition of Rome, Frankfurt, Warsaw, Poznań and Madrid, alongside increased frequencies on some of our most popular routes, gave passengers even greater choice this summer, and they responded strongly. “Summer at Shannon was about much more than outbound travel. We welcomed thousands of overseas visitors coming to experience the Wild Atlantic Way and Ireland’s world-renowned golf courses, as well as sports fans travelling to and from major events in Ireland and the United States.”

SHANNON councillors have called for a wall between the old and new sections of Cillín burial ground on the Cratloe Road to be reinstated. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) tabled a motion at the September meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, asking that the wall between the newer and older sections of the burial ground be rebuilt. In a written reply, Leonore O’Neill, Senior Executive Ofﬁcer with Rural and Community Development, said the wall had been inspected and was “generally considered to be structurally sound”. She said the majority of the deterioration observed arose from “spoil, rubble and other materials being placed on or against the wall during grave excavation and monument installation works, rather than being removed from the site appropriately”. “These issues are likely to recur unless appropriate site management and disposal practices are consistently adhered to,” Ms O’Neill said. She said the matter would

l Cllr Pat O’Gorman

continue to be monitored and those carrying out works within the burial ground would be reminded of their responsibilities. Speaking at the meeting, Cllr O’Gorman said he agreed that the structure was sound but said there were two places where the wall had been knocked and he wanted it reinstated. He said he did not believe the written reply answered his

question and said he was not happy with it. Cllr John Crowe (FG) supported the motion, saying that four or ﬁve years ago, a large amount of rubble had been removed following the digging of graves, while new paths were put in and the walls cleaned. He said the wall subsequently fell and had now been down for a couple of years, despite a number of requests for it to be repaired. Cllr Crowe said the wall separates the small old graveyard from the new graveyard and described its current condition as an “eyesore”. “It’s looking at you straight in the face and it looks very bad,” he said. He said he could not support the motion enough, adding that it was “not a massive job” and would ﬁnish off the whole area. Concluding, Cllr O’Gorman asked that the entire municipal district make a request for the wall to be reinstated. He said people wanted to visit their loved ones and see the wall restored properly. Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme

Circle K Tullyvarraga Bikeathon to pedal towards €200,000 for Pieta by Paige Foley paige@clareecho.ie

PEOPLE in Clare are being invited to take part in a Bikeathon at Circle K Shannon next week as part of a nationwide fundraising campaign for Pieta. The event will take place at Circle K on Tullyvarraga Road, Shannon, on Thursday, September 24, from 9am to 5pm. Members of the public, customers and Circle K colleagues will take turns using static gym bikes outside the service station, with a collective target of cycling 100 kilometres. The bikes are being supplied by Anthony from AeroSpinning at Shannon Swimming and Leisure Centre in support of the fundraiser. The Shannon event forms part of Circle K’s Coast to

l The Shannon Bikeathon takes place today, September 24 from 9am-5pm

Coast campaign, which aims to raise more than €200,000 for Pieta’s suicide and selfharm prevention services. Members of the public can take part by signing up for a 30-minute cycling slot, with availability to be conﬁrmed through Circle K Shannon or Store Manager Iwona Perec Chrapek. Cyclists are asked to aim to raise €50 each, with all funds going towards Pieta. Donations can also be made in Circle K stores, through the Circle K app or via the campaign’s iDonate page. Paul Dixon, Managing Director of Circle K Ireland, said the company was “delighted” to bring the Coast to Coast campaign to Shannon and give the local community an opportunity to get involved. “This event is just one of several fundraising activi-

ties taking place across the country forming part of this year’s Coast to Coast initiative, all working towards our most ambitious fundraising target to date of more than €200,000,” he said. Stephanie Manahan, Chief Executive Ofﬁcer of Pieta, said the campaign was about people coming together to ensure that those experiencing suicidal distress, selfharm or suicide bereavement do not have to face it alone. “Every euro raised helps Pieta keep our free, professional therapy services and 24/7 Crisis Helpline available for people at the moments they need us most,” she said. Circle K began a threeyear partnership with Pieta in January 2026, with a commitment to raise €1 million over the course of the partnership.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Garden of Eternal Love opens in Galway

Gort & South Galway

Keeping it clean in Kinvara...

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

Galway City Council has unveiled An Gairdín Síorghrá, The Garden of Eternal Love, a new memorial garden at Quincentennial Park, Salthill, dedicated to supporting families who have experienced pregnancy loss, infant loss, and baby loss. The garden provides a peaceful and reflective space for remembrance, comfort, and healing. It has been created to honour the memory of babies lost and to acknowledge the diverse experiences of grief and bereavement faced by individuals and families following such loss. The design and development of An Gairdín Síorghrá was made possible through a collaborative partnership between Galway City Council, Councillor Clodagh Higgins and several national bereavement support organisations. The Council worked closely with Féileacáin, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support Ireland; FirstLight; LMC Bereavement Support; A Little Lifetime Foundation; and The Miscarriage Association of Ireland to ensure the garden would provide an inclusive and sensitive space for remembrance. The expertise, guidance and lived experience shared by the bereavement support groups played a central role in informing the design of the garden, inclusivity and the symbolic elements incorporated throughout the space. Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu, speaking at the unveiling said, “This is a beautiful space, but we must also remember why it was created, to provide a place of remembrance and reflection for families who have experienced pregnancy loss, miscarriage, stillbirth or neonatal death. “For many families, this grief can

l Mayor of Galway, Cllr Helen Ogbu at the unveiling of the new memorial garden with Cllrs Clodagh Higgins, Donal Lyons, John McDonagh, Terry Flaherty & representatives from Féileacáin, Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Support Ireland; FirstLight; LMC Bereavement; A Little Lifetime Foundation; and The Miscarriage Association of Ireland

be profound and, at times, invisible. Today, Galway is saying clearly: your loss matters, your child is remembered, and your grief has a place here. “I want to acknowledge Councillor Clodagh Higgins, whose representations on behalf of families helped bring this project forward, and Galway City Council’s Recreation and Amenity section for taking the project forward with such care. “Most importantly, I want to recognise the five national bereavement support organisations who were involved in shaping this garden. Their experience and understanding have ensured that this garden has been developed with bereaved families at its heart. I am particularly touched by the name An Gairdín Síorghrá The Garden of Eternal Love. Because love does not end with loss.” Chief Executive of Galway City Council, Leonard Cleary, said, “An

Gairdín Síorghrá is a meaningful and compassionate addition to our city. This beautiful memorial garden provides a place where families can reflect, remember and honour the precious lives of babies who are no longer with us. “Galway City Council is proud to support the creation of a dedicated space that recognises the profound impact of pregnancy and infant loss and offers comfort to those affected.” Councillor Clodagh Higgins secured funding for the development of the garden in 2024 in response to representations from constituents on the lack of a dedicated memorial space. Galway City Council is proud to support and honour the families, parents and loved ones impacted by pregnancy loss, infant loss and baby loss. The garden stands as a lasting tribute to the babies remembered there and as a place of solace, understanding and connection for all who visit.

l Volunteers from Kinvara Earth Keepers at Aughinish beach with the litter they collected as part of the Big Beach Clean. 500 clean-ups were organised nationwide by Clean Coasts groups, communities, and individuals, ultimately removing an estimated over 58 tonnes of marine litter from Ireland’s beaches, coastline, inland waterways, towns and villages

Galway lotto winner National Lottery players in Galway and Kildare are celebrating after landing two big prizes in National Lottery draws this weekend. A Galway player has matched 5 numbers and the Bonus to win an incredible €88,740 in Saturday night’s Lotto draw. The Quick Pick ticket was purchased on the day of the draw from Daybreak Service Station, Swangate, Athenry, Co. Galway. The winning numbers in the Saturday, 19th September Lotto draw were 10, 11, 20, 28, 41, 44 and the Bonus was 2. One Kildare player is €500,000 richer after matching all five numbers in Friday night's EuroMillions Plus draw, winning the EuroMillions Plus top prize from a ticket purchased in Clane. National Lottery spokesperson Darragh O’Dwyer said: "It's been a fantastic weekend for National Lottery players, with two major wins landing in Galway and Kildare. A Galway player is celebrating a €88,740 Lotto win after matching five numbers and the Bonus. We're encouraging players to carefully check their tickets as they could be our latest big winners!” The holders of the winning tickets can contact the National Lottery Prize Claims team on 1800 666 222.

Bluebird Care brings Virtual Dementia Tour to Athenry Mart Bluebird Care’s Immersive Experience Bus arrives at Athenry Co-operative Livestock Mart on Thursday 24 September, giving farming families, carers and anyone with a loved one living with dementia the chance to go through the Virtual Dementia Tour. The bus is at the mart from 10am to 4.30pm and the tour is free. The Virtual Dementia Tour was developed by Second Wind Dreams in the United States and is used internationally to train care staff and families. Participants put on gloves, goggles and headphones that alter their sight, hearing and touch, and are then asked to carry out a few

everyday tasks. It takes about eight minutes. Most people struggle to ﬁnish the tasks, and come away with a very different understanding of what a parent, partner or neighbour with dementia is dealing with every day. The tour highlights the everyday stressors that can distress a person living with dementia, such as noise, glare, clutter and rushed routines, and the simple adjustments that reduce anxiety and support independence. Bluebird Care’s aim is to turn a few minutes of understanding into practical changes at home. “Dementia is something most Irish families will meet at some point, and the hardest part

is often not knowing what the person is going through. The Virtual Dementia Tour closes that gap in a few minutes. People step off the bus and immediately think about the lighting in their mother’s kitchen or how quickly they speak to their father. Those small changes make a real difference to someone’s day,” said Mark McInerney, Chief Operating Ofﬁcer, Bluebird Care Ireland. This year’s roadshow is primarily focused on schools, colleges and other educational facilities, alongside a number of public stops, so that the next generation of carers, healthcare workers and families understand dementia from the inside.

The Bluebird Care Galway team will be on the bus throughout the day to talk to visitors about the tour and about the support available to families caring for someone with dementia at home. The Immersive Experience Bus is at Wexford Quay on Monday 21 September, University of Limerick on Tuesday 22 September, LCETB in Ennis on Wednesday 23 September, Athenry Mart on Thursday 24 September and Quayside Shopping Centre in Sligo on Friday 25 September, and continues on a national roadshow through September and October.

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Literature

Ennis dentist sinks teeth into writing book on Ireland’s secret WW2 history

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

AN ENNIS dentist-turned-historian has unveiled the truth behind one of Ireland’s most misunderstood eras — World War II. Ger Browne’s monumental 650page work, Éire in WW2 – The True Story, sets out to dismantle decades of misconceptions surrounding the Emergency, bringing to light a sweeping record of Irish cooperation that has long been obscured. Originally a Corkman from Douglas who has called County Clare home for four decades, Ger ran the Ennis Dental Health Centre for years before retiring to focus on his lifelong passion for history. Local readers will already be familiar with his work, from his 125year history of the Ennis Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club to more than 38 research booklets published on the Clare Library website, cataloguing thousands of local records from the Revolutionary period, the RIC, and earlier global conflicts. It was while researching earlier military campaigns that Ger encountered a glaring historical puzzle. “I came to a brick wall in World War II,” Ger explains, noting that the Irish diaspora had historically won a third of all US Medals of Honor and 190 Victoria Crosses. “How could a country whose people had served in such numbers suddenly stand aside? I wanted to know what really happened in World War II and the Emergency”. The turning point came when Ger read a groundbreaking paper by retired lecturer Donard de Cogan regarding Fort Shannon, a secret wartime military base on the Shannon Estuary. Built south of Scattery Island with British technical assistance, Fort Shannon was fitted with two massive artillery guns designed to protect the mouth

l MILITARY HISTORIAN: Ger Browne spent hundreds of hours compiling information for the 650-page publication (inset)

of the estuary. “I know all about the Napoleonic forts on the Shannon Estuary, but I had never heard of Fort Shannon,” says Ger. “It was built in late 1942 to defend Foynes, which was virtually the most important airbase in the world at the time.” During the war, Foynes served as a vital transatlantic hub for VIPs, top military brass, and legendary Yankee Clipper flying boats. “Everybody and anybody flew through Shannon,” Ger recalls. “Anyone living along the Shannon Estuary in Clare knew something massive was happening because those planes were flying overhead every single night”. A central focus of Éire in WW2 – The True Story is confronting the enduring fables that painted wartime Ireland as harbouring Ger-

man sympathies. One of the most persistent legends claims German bombers used Dublin’s streetlights to navigate before attacking British targets. “That German planes bombing Liverpool flew across the Irish Sea just to see the lights on in Dublin and then returned is absolutely ridiculous,” Ger says. “It is the equivalent of the Allies flying to Stuttgart, crossing into neutral Switzerland to look at Basel’s lights, and then flying 30 minutes backwards”. Ger similarly dismisses claims of German U-boats refueling in western bays. In reality, the RAF stationed aircraft at Foynes alongside dozens of maritime patrol planes continuously surveying the West Coast to ensure no submarine refueling ever took place. He also sets the record straight

on Éamon de Valera’s post-war visit to German Minister Eduard Hempel. “There was no book of condolences opened or signed — de Valera did not sign anything,” Ger clarifies. Hempel was a career diplomat, and de Valera offered him and his family temporary asylum, during which Hempel remained in Ireland for four years before later joining the West German diplomatic corps. In private, de Valera explicitly assured British authorities that Ireland would extend every possible assistance short of declaring open war. Behind the official veil of non-alignment, practical cooperation with the Allies was extensive. Gardaí provided character references for Irish recruits, downed Allied airmen were escorted to the Northern border within 24 hours to rejoin their units, and Irish agricultural exports fed wartime Britain in exchange for coal and fertilizer. Meanwhile, German personnel were interned for the duration of the war. For Clare, the strategic footprint was immense. At Rineanna — now Shannon Airport — concrete runways extending up to 5,000 feet were constructed, accompanied by underground communication tunnels, gun posts, accommodation, a church, and wireless facilities. “One engineer who worked at Rineanna said it was run just like an American airbase,” Ger notes. “American pilots landing there nearly always demanded to stay overnight because word had gotten out that it was a great place to land”. Along the coast, 82 numbered

lookout posts — including Loop Head — provided navigational air signs for Allied aircrews, while right in Ennis, near Friar’s Walk, a town memorial stands to honour the 70 Clare men and women who lost their lives during the conflict. The core of Ger’s work is an exhaustive alphabetical directory profiling 5,411 men and women from Éire who died during World War II. Ger stresses that this count — based strictly on primary nextof-kin records — is a conservative baseline. “As more archives open, the true figure could reach 8,000 or 10,000, representing a proportional sacrifice equal to that of the United States,” he observes. Over 70 tons of official government documents were destroyed after the war, contributing to decades of silence. “The Irish diaspora took an immense amount of flak over the years regarding an alleged pro-Nazi stance,” says Ger. “They deserve to know the hard, documented truth of what really happened”. Featuring a formal introduction by Ennis native, Major General (Retired) Adrian Ó Murchú, the 650-page book incorporates specialized contributions from historians Jim O’Neill, John Crotty, and Donard de Cogan alongside Ger’s extensive analysis and casualty roster. Ennis man Eddie Lough, supported Ger by digitising the 24,000 pages of research. Designed specifically for general readers without dense military acronyms, the volume is structured so anyone can open a page and engage directly with the material. Éire in WW2 – The True Story is available locally in Ennis at The Ennis Bookshop, in Lahinch Bookshop, and Banner Books in Ennistymon and Kilrush, as well as online from Amazon and via www.gerbrowne.com.

Clare Volunteers Ready to Take Centre Stage in 2027

More than 400 people are expected to attend the ofﬁcial launch of County Clare’s programme as European Volunteering Capital 2027 at Treacys West County Hotel in Ennis on Thursday, September 24. The event, which is open to the public, will provide a ﬁrst look at plans for 2027 and will bring together volunteers, community organisations, voluntary groups and other stakeholders from across the county. Panel discussions will focus on the programme planned for 2027, the organisations and stakeholders involved in delivering it, and the experiences of volunteers from across Clare. There will also be a showcase of volunteering activity from all four corners of the county, highlighting the range of work carried out by volunteers and

community organisations. Hosted by Alan Morrissey, presenter of Clare FM’s Morning Focus, the event will give individuals and organisations an opportunity to ﬁnd out how they can become involved in the programme, including events and initiatives planned for 2027. The new www.clare2027.ie website will also be launched at the event, providing information on the programme and opportunities to participate. The European Volunteering Capital 2027 title was awarded to Clare by the Centre for European Volunteering (CEV) following a competitive process involving cities and regions across Europe. Clare County Council and Clare Volunteer Centre submitted a joint bid in June 2025. The proposal was developed through a cross-sector working group

l Promoting Clare EV Capital 2027 at the National Ploughing Championships 2026 are (L-R): Marie O’Leary, Assistant Staff Officer at Clare County Council; Ian Dinan, Chair of Board of Trustees, Volunteer Ireland; Dara Calleary, Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht; and Kay Nolan, Staff Officer, Clare County Council

involving stakeholders from across the county. Clare was announced as the winner in late 2025. Clare now joins previous European Volunteering Capitals including Barcelona, Padoca, Aarhus, Berlin, Mechelen, Maia and Košice. Sligo, which held the title in 2017, remains the only other Irish holder of the title. Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen said, “This is a proud moment for Clare. This prestigious title recognises the contribution made by volunteers in communities across the county every day. I encourage people across Clare to get involved and make 2027 a year that celebrates volunteering and the people who make such a difference in our communities.” Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly said, “Throughout 2027,

communities across Clare will have opportunities to take part in festivals, recognition events, storytelling projects and initiatives celebrating the impact of volunteering. Our aim is to ensure that the legacy of European Volunteering Capital extends beyond 2027 and leaves a lasting beneﬁt for communities across the county.” Manager of Clare Volunteer Centre, Sharon Meaney added, “European Volunteering Capital 2027 belongs to everyone in Clare. Whether you already volunteer, represent a community organisation or are thinking about getting involved for the ﬁrst time, there will be opportunities to take part. We want 2027 to celebrate the contribution of volunteers, strengthen communities and encourage the next generation of volunteers.”

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Literature

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Columnists

Work is God’s gift and our blessing THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK: Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY

“W

HATEVER you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” (Colossians 3:23). As dawn gently breaks over Ireland each morning, while many of us are still asleep, thousands of people have already begun their day’s work. Farmers are tending livestock as the first light appears over fields and hedgerows. Nurses finish night shifts, quietly comforting patients before handing over to colleagues. Bakers are taking fresh loaves from warm ovens. Bus drivers begin their routes. Parents prepare breakfasts and school lunches before setting off to work themselves. Cleaners, delivery drivers, factory workers, shop assistants, and countless others quietly begin another ordinary day. Most of us rarely stop to think about them. Yet without their dedication, our com-

munities would grind to a halt. As I reflected recently while attending the Ploughing Championships, I found myself asking a simple question. When did we begin to think of work as a burden instead of a blessing? Too often we speak about work as something to be endured until Friday arrives or retirement beckons. We measure success by salaries, promotions and status rather than by faithfulness, integrity and service. We ask children what they want to do when they grow up instead of asking who they hope to be. Yet the Bible offers a wonderfully different perspective. The Book of Ecclesiastes reminds us, “There is nothing better for people than to be happy and to do good while they live, that each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God.” Notice those beautiful words, “The gift of God.” Work is not God’s punishment. It is God’s gift. MORE THAN A LIVING Growing up, my parents taught me something I appreciate more with every passing year. Like so many

parents of their generation, they believed there was dignity in honest work. Whether the task was large or small, enjoyable or repetitive, they encouraged me to give it my very best. As a young boy, I didn’t always understand those lessons. There were chores I tried to avoid such as digging the back garden or footing turf at the bog or stacking bales of hay. Looking back now, I realise they were teaching me something far more important than simply how to work. They were teaching me responsibility. Perseverance. Humility. Gratitude. Above all, they were teaching me that every task, however ordinary it might seem, could become an expression of love. That lesson has stayed with me through-

out my life. It has shaped my work, my faith and my understanding of what it truly means to serve others. JESUS THE CARPENTER One of the most overlooked truths in the Gospels is that Jesus spent far longer working as a carpenter than He did preaching. For almost 30 years, the Son of God lived quietly in Nazareth. He worked with His hands. He knew the satisfaction of a job completed well. That simple fact should never cease to amaze us. Before He healed the sick. Before He fed the five thousand. Before He calmed the storm. Jesus shaped timber. Served His neighbours through the work of His hands. In doing so, He transformed forever our understanding of work. Every workshop became holy ground. Every classroom. Every hospital ward. Every farm. Every office. Every building site. Every place where honest work is carried out with love became a place where God Himself is present. LESSONS LEARNED AMONG THE POOREST Nearly forty years ago, I began a journey that would

change my understanding of work forever. As a young volunteer with GOAL, and later through my work with Self Help Africa, I had the privilege of living and working alongside families in Kolkata, Ethiopia, Nepal, Angola, Malawi, Kenya and many countries across Africa and also in Bosnia and Ukraine. I travelled believing I was going to help others. The truth is, they became my greatest teachers. I have stood beside women who rise before sunrise every day to walk miles for water before tending tiny plots of land beneath the burning African sun. I have met fathers who labour from dawn until dusk, not to become wealthy, but simply to ensure their children have enough to eat and the opportunity to attend school. What struck me most was not how hard they worked. It was why they worked. Every seed planted was an act of hope. Every harvest was an expression of love. THE HIDDEN HEROES Perhaps before today ends, pause for a few moments and think about the people whose work has

quietly blessed your life. So much of life’s goodness depends upon people who rarely receive recognition. Perhaps one of the simplest acts of Christian kindness is to notice them. To look them in the eye. To smile. To say those two precious words, “Thank you.” Those words cost us nothing. Yet they may mean everything to someone who quietly serves without applause. THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK As your thought for the week, I invite you to see your work through God’s eyes. Before you begin each day, pause for just a moment and pray, “Lord, bless the work of my hands today.” Take time to thank someone whose work often goes unnoticed. Encourage a colleague, neighbour or volunteer. Pray for those who are unemployed, overwhelmed at work, retired, caring for loved ones or living with illness. And each evening ask yourself one simple question, “Did my work today help someone experience God’s love?” If the answer is yes, then no matter how ordinary the day may have seemed, it was a day well lived.

Inis Dom!, Gradam Dúinn Uilig

glór hosts bilingual concert series, Teanga an Cheoil

Bhí cúis cheiliúrtha againn an deireadh seachtaine seo! Bhí tionscnamh Inis Dom! ar ghearrliosta Ghradaim Ardán 2026, agus bronnadh gradam orainn sa chatagóir Gnó agus Fiontraíocht ag an searmanas in Óstán an Connacht i nGaillimh Dé Sathairn. Is tionscnamh de chuid An Clár as Gaeilge é Inis Dom! a spreagann úsáid na Gaeilge i ngnólachtaí na hInse. Tá an smaoineamh simplí: ba mhaith linn go mbeadh sé níos fusa ag daoine cúpla focal Gaeilge a úsáid agus iad ag fáil caife, ag siopadóireacht nó ag baint leas as seirbhís áitiúil. Ní gá comhrá foirfe a bheith ag aon duine. Is minic gur leor “Dia duit”, “go raibh maith agat” nó ceist bheag i nGaeilge chun tús a chur leis. Tá gnólachtaí éagsúla tar éis páirt a ghlacadh sa tionscnamh agus fáilte a chur roimh an nGaeilge ina gcuid siopaí agus seirbhísí. Tá suaitheantais, frásaí úsáideacha agus ábhar eile curtha ar fáil againn chun cabhrú leis an bhfoireann agus leis na custaiméirí araon. Táimid an-bhuíoch de na gnólachtaí a thug seans don tionscnamh. Is iad a chuireann an Ghaeilge os comhair an phobail gach lá.

Teanga an Cheoil is a new series of intimate concerts in a bilingual environment, launched by Glór this Autumn and curated by Paula Carroll. Musicians from Ireland’s Gaeltachts are heavily featured as well as musicians who regularly work through Irish. Teanga an Cheoil takes place in glór studio starting Thursday, September 24 and runs until Thursday, November 26. Concert guests include Mick O’ Brien & Aoife ní Bhriain (Thurs 24 Sept); Eoghan Ó Ceannabháin & Niamh Keady Tabbal (Thurs 8 Oct); Cathal Ó Curráin & Megan Nic Fhionnghaile (Thurs 12 Nov); and Diarmuid & Éamonn Ó Meachair (Thurs 26 Nov). Speaking about the series, curator Paula Carroll says: “This series is a kind of response to the huge surge of interest in engaging with the Irish language in recent years. “The language has always been closely connected with the music tradition, and this series explores that connection.” The concerts will present musicians and singers who work through Irish as well as English, with a strong representation from the Gaeltacht areas of Connemara, Gweedore and Coolea.

Macalla An Chláir

Leis An Clár As Gaeilge

Más mian leat a fháil amach cá bhféadfá do chuid Gaeilge a úsáid, féach ar an léarscáil idirghníomhach ar ár suíomh gréasáin, www.anclarasgaeilge. net. Taispeánann sí na gnólachtaí atá páirteach in Inis Dom! agus cabhraíonn sí leat iad a aimsiú agus tú ag siúl timpeall na hInse. B’fhéidir go bhfeicfeá áit a dtugann tú cuairt uirthi cheana féin, nó go spreagfadh an léarscáil thú le triail a bhaint as gnó eile. Is mór an onóir dúinn an gradam seo a fháil, ach baineann sé le pobal na hInse ar fad: leis na gnólachtaí a ghlac páirt, leis an bhfoireann a bhíonn ag caint le custaiméirí, agus le gach duine a úsáideann

Gaeilge, fiú mura mbíonn aige nó aici ach cúpla focal. Má tá gnó agat agus más spéis leat páirt a ghlacadh, cuir fios ar An Clár as Gaeilge. Agus an chéad uair eile a fheiceann tú suaitheantas Inis Dom!, abair focal beag Gaeilge. Sin mar a fhásann an tionscnamh, comhrá amháin ag an am. DÚSHLÁN NA SEACHTAINE Féach ar léarscáil Inis Dom! ar www.anclarasgaeilge.net, roghnaigh gnó atá páirteach sa tionscnamh, agus abair trí fhrása Gaeilge ann an tseachtain seo: “Dia duit”, “Le do thoil” agus “Go raibh maith agat”.

l Aoife Ní Bhriain is amongst the performers taking part in this special series at glór theatre in Ennis

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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News

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

Healthy Clare

COUNTY CLARE

Woman’s Health Week

Women’s Health Week 2026 launches in Clare with ambassador Rosie Foley and Killaloe students WOMEN and girls across County Clare are being encouraged to prioritise their health and wellbeing as Women’s Health Week 2026 gets underway from Monday, September 28 to Sunday, October 4. The week-long initiative was officially launched by Women’s Health Week Ambassador, former Irish Rugby International and open water swimmer, Rosie Foley, alongside students and teachers from St Anne’s Community College, Killaloe. The programme highlights the importance of supporting women’s health at every stage of life through this year’s theme, “Strong at Every Age – Strong Bones. Strong Hearts. Strong Minds.” Led by Clare County Council in partnership with Clare Sports Partnership, HSE, Tusla and a range of community organisations, Women’s Health Week aims to empower girls, teenagers and women of all ages with the knowledge, confidence and practical supports needed to maintain lifelong health and wellbeing. A comprehensive programme of free events will take place across the county, covering topics such as bone health, cardiovascular health, nutrition, physical activity, strength training and healthy ageing. The initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of preventative health measures and providing women with opportunities to make informed decisions about their wellbeing. A key element of this year’s programme is a dedicated schools initiative, which will see interactive sessions delivered to teenage girls in secondary schools throughout Clare. These sessions will focus on menstrual health, selfesteem and mental wellbeing, encouraging healthy habits and positive attitudes towards health from an early age. Women’s Health Week will also reach audiences through the airwaves, with a special week-long series on Clare FM’s Morning Focus featuring expert contributors discussing a range of issues affecting women’s health. Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Killeen, said the breadth of the programme demonstrates the commitment of local agencies and community partners to supporting women’s health. “The range of events taking place throughout the county reflects a shared commitment to supporting healthier communities and ensuring women of all ages have access to information, encouragement and opportunities to improve their wellbeing. I encourage women and girls across Clare to get involved and make the most of the week’s activities,” he said. Launching the programme in Killaloe, Rosie Foley, Women’s Health Week Ambassador, former Irish Rugby international and open water swimmer, emphasised the value of encouraging women to invest in their health and wellbeing. “I am proud to support Women’s Health Week and the ‘Strong at Every Age’ message, which encourages women to prioritise their health and wellbeing. It was a pleasure to be joined by students and teachers at St Anne’s Community College in launching this year’s programme. Young people play an important role in promoting positive health messages, and I encourage women across Clare to take part in the events and invest in their health and wellbeing,” she said. Healthy Ireland Coordinator with Clare County Council, Joan Tarmey, said the week provides an important opportunity to focus attention on women’s wellbeing. “Women’s Health Week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the importance of looking

Rosie Foley and Killaloe students launch Women’s Health Week 2026 in Clare. L-R: Rosie Foley, Women’s Health Week Ambassador, former Irish Rugby International and open water swimmer, Ruby O’Donovan and Lauren Lynch, Transition Year students, St. Anne’s Community College, Killaloe Photo by Eamon Ward

after our health at every age and stage of life. We are delighted to be working with our partners to deliver a diverse programme that will engage women and girls right across County Clare,” she said. Acting CEO of Clare Sports Partnership, Pat Sexton, highlighted the role physical activity can play in improving overall health. “The benefits of sport and physical activity extend far beyond fitness, helping to support better physical health, mental wellbeing and stronger community connections. We are proud to support Women’s Health Week and encourage women across the county to avail of the free events, sponsored by Clare County Council and Healthy Ireland, and discover ways to be strong at every age,” he said. Mary McMahon, Chairperson of the Healthy Clare Working Group and HSE Senior Health Promotion and Improvement Officer, said the initiative provides a valuable platform for health promotion and education. “Through education, physical activity and community engagement, Women’s Health Week helps women to better understand the factors that influence their health and equips them with practical knowledge that can support healthier lives,” she noted. With dozens of events taking place across Clare, organisers are encouraging women of all ages to get involved, learn something new and take positive steps towards improving their health and wellbeing. For the full programme and booking details, visit www.clarecoco.ie/womenshealth.

L-R: Joan Tarmey, Healthy Ireland Co-ordinator, Clare County Council; Eukaria O’Grady, Principal of St. Anne’s Community College, Killaloe; Jessica O’Keefe, Clare Sports Partnership; Patricia Fitzgerald, TY Co-ordinator, Beverley Hartigan, Deputy Principal (both St. Anne’s Community College), Rosie Foley, Women’s Health Week Ambassador, former Irish Rugby international, and open water swimmer; Ruby O’Donovan and Lauren Lynch, Transition Year students at St. Anne’s Community College, Killaloe Photo by Eamon Ward

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Healthy Clare

Women’s Health Week in Clare STRONG AT EVERY AGE 28 September to 4 October 2026

Build strength. Protect your heart. Support your mind. Women’s Health Week in Clare is a countywide programme of talks, activities and conversations supporting women’s health at every age. Find your way to take part.

FIVE FREE EVENTS FOR WOMEN Health talks and guided movement for women of all ages

KILRUSH

Thurs 24 Sept, 8.00pm-9.30pm at K-Fitt, Kilrush

LAHINCH

Mon 28 Sept, 7.30pm-9.00pm at Lahinch Leisure Centre

SHANNON

Wed 30 Sept, 7.30pm-9.00pm at Shannon Leisure Centre

ENNIS

Thurs 1 Oct, 11.30am-1.00pm at West County Hotel

SCARRIFF

Sat 3 Oct, 10.00am-11.30am at Scarriff GAA Hall

Booking Essential at claresports.ie/womens-health-week/ WOMEN’S HEALTH ON CLARE FM Tune in to Morning Focus, 9.00am-12 noon, Mon 28 Sept-Fri 2 Oct, for a different women’s health discussion each day.

HEALTH TALKS FOR TEENAGE GIRLS Secondary schools across Clare will host talks helping teenage girls stay strong, healthy, connected and informed as they grow.

See the Week’s Programme on clarecoco.ie/womenshealth/

Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

GREEN CLARE BROUGHT TO YOU BY CLEAN IRELAND RECYCLING

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VISIT responsiblerecycling.ie

370 Clare volunteers join Big Beach Clean by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

Over 370 volunteers from County Clare removed an estimated 2.2 tonnes of litter from the county’s towns, villages, coastline and inland waterways, during the Big Beach Clean weekend. In total an estimated more than 58 tonnes of marine litter was removed during the Big Beach Clean nationwide, thanks to 9,700 volunteers across 26 counties for this annual call to action. The Big Beach Clean is vital in caring for and protecting our marine environments from litter and pollution. Held to mark the end of the Irish bathing season, and to coincide with the International Coastal Cleanup by Ocean Conservancy, the Big Beach Clean took place from September 18-20 this year. This annual event combines beach-cleaning with a global citizen science action, to record data on the quantities and categories of

litter items found along our shores. In County Clare, over 370 volunteers from nearly more than 20 groups removed an estimated 2.2 tonnes of marine litter with cleanups taking place in various locations across the county. Among them more than 20 volunteers from Banner Gleo, Calluragh Cregg Beach Association and Visit the Burren took to Cregg Beach, Lahinch, removing loads of plastic and debris from the beach, inlcuding large tangles of fishing net and rope. Volunteers from Kinvara Earthkeepers spent a sunny morning cleaning Aughinish beach for the Big Beach Clean. The most commonly found items included plastics and fishing related litter, and they also found a satellite dish and a large plastic drum. The Big Beach Clean 2026 was kindly supported by Kia Ireland, who helped fund clean-up equipment and supplies to the thousands of volunteers throughout the coun-

try who registered their clean-up actions. The three most common litter items removed during the Big Beach Clean weekend last year included fishing related waste, cigarette butts and plastic pieces. This is in line with both EU and International data which regularly includes these items within top 10 recorded items. According to the European Environment Agency, approximately 80% of marine litter comes from land-based activities. This means that litter from our inland villages, estates, towns and cities can end up polluting our inland waterways, seas and ocean. Litter can make its way to the coast through way of inland waterways, wind and animal activity. Bronagh Moore, An Taisce, Clean Coasts Programme Manager said; “Once again it was great to see thousands of volunteers show up across the country to support the Big Beach Clean. Together we

l DEDICATION: Bags of litter collected at Cregg Beach, Lahinch by Big Beach Clean Volunteers

are making a tangible difference in keeping our beaches clean and in protecting our marine life. We

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thank every one of them for their contribution as well as the local councils that support them.”

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Business & Recruitment

60 seconds... with Michael Queally

Ahead of the Clare Business Excellence Awards 2026, we speak to Inagh native Michael Queally, co-founder of AMQ Accountants When you were smaller, what did you want to be? A farmer. I grew up on a farm.

Your career progression After graduating from Accounting and Finance at DCU, I spent six months with O’Halloran & Company in Ennis. That helped me secure a trainee contract with Deloitte in Limerick, where I trained as an accountant. I spent nine years with Deloitte, including a year and a half in Sydney. On returning, I joined Pfizer as Plant Financial Controller in Dublin for four years. After our first child, Seamus, was born, my wife Mary and I decided to move home to Ennis. I rejoined Deloitte in Limerick for a further two years before joining Doonbeg Golf Club as Finance Director. In 2010, my brother Paul and I decided to set up an

AMQ Accountants and Auditors and we’ve been working on building it ever since. What motivates you? At a basic level, like everybody else, you’re motivated to make a living. Once that’s taken care of, what motivates me is building AMQ into something valuable for businesses in Clare and the wider region. What advice do you have for your 15-year-old self? I was always fairly happygo-lucky. I wouldn’t tell my 15-year-old self to change too much, but I would tell him to recognise opportunities when they come along and make the most of them. Your greatest achievement? Like most people, I’d have to say my fami-

ly. I have three great kids and a very patient wife, Mary. Who or what is the biggest influence on your life? I’ve been lucky to have a lot of good influences. My parents were probably the first. They taught us the importance of hard work, but also of always looking at what’s coming down the track, reassessing where you are and figuring out the best way forward. Professionally, Ger Lyons and John Gilmartin, who were partners in Deloitte when I was training, were big

influences on me. What’s the life dream now? Personally, I’d like to see the kids find careers and lives that make them happy. Then hopefully Mary and I can spend a bit more time travelling. How do you switch off? Every now and again I take the fiddle and head somewhere around Ennis or Doolin to play a few tunes. I also enjoy walking and swimming. When are you at your happiest? I’m pretty happy most of the time! Do you have any hidden talents? None that I’ve discovered yet. Is there anything else that you’d like to share? I’d just like to thank all of our clients in Clare and across the

Little Ducks in Clarecastle grab a Bronze Badger LITTLE Ducks Preschool in Clarecastle have been awarded with a Bronze Badger Nature Heroes Award, 2025-2026. The Nature Heroes Awards are Ireland’s largest outdoor learning programme across the education sector. They are a mark of excellence for a school recognising outstanding work by young people and teachers to help nature. The aim is to create an educational space that nurtures a love of nature, de-

velops a knowledge of biodiversity and encourages action to help it locally. It covers many topics from nature conservation to ecoliteracy to wellbeing. A statement from the school noted, “This is a fantastic achievement for Little Ducks Preschool based in Skehanagh, Clarecastle and a wonderful recognition of the children’s enthusiasm, curiosity and care for the natural world. “Throughout the year, the preschool

children enjoyed participating in many nature projects including creating a bug hotel, bird care stations, planting flowers and vegetables. “The award recognises the care and hard work of the children and educators in protecting nature. This is the Preschool’s first time entering the competition and it was a wonderful achievement to win the Bronze Badger Nature Heroes Award. Well done to all involved.”

country for their support. They allow us to do what we do and we never take that support for granted. I’d also like to thank the

team in AMQ. We have a great group of people and anything we’ve achieved has been a collective effort.

FACT FILE Position: Managing Director, AMQ Accountants & Auditors Age: 54 Lives: Ennis Family: Wife Mary; three children: Seamus, Niamh and Aisling Favourite thing about Clare: The music and the people Least favourite thing: The weather One thing you would change about Clare: The weather

San am i láthair, tá Comhairle Contae an Chláir ag iarraidh iarratais ó dhaoine a bhfuil na cáilíochtaí oiriúnacha acu ar na comórtais thíosluaite. Tar éis an phróisis agallaimh, cruthóidh Comhairle Contae an Chláir painéil le haghaidh na réimsí atá leagtha amach thíos óna bhféadfar folúntais ábhartha amach anseo a líonadh faoi réir ceadú a fháil ón Roinn Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil agus Oidhreachta.

• Eolaí Feidhmiúcháin Sinsearach Dáta deiridh: 12 pm meán lae Déardaoin an 8 Deireadh Fómhair 2026

• Cúntóir Leabharlainne Dáta deiridh: 12 pm meán lae Déardaoin an 8 Deireadh Fómhair 2026

Comhlánaigh, le do thoil, an fhoirm iarratais ar líne atá ar fáil ar www.clarecoco.ie faoin rannán dar teideal ‘Careers’. Ní ghlacfar ach le hiarratais atá comhlánaithe ar líne. Is fostóir comhdheiseanna í Comhairle Contae an Chláir agus fáiltíonn sí roimh iarratais ó gach cuid den phobal.

Só Hotels bunk up with Munster Munster Rugby has announced a new two-year partnership which will see Só Hotels become the Official Hotel Partner of Munster Rugby. Commencing for the 2026/27 season, Só Hotels will work with Munster Rugby across a range of match-day, supporter, hospitality and promotional initiatives.Só Hotels operates six hotels across Ireland, including three in Munster — Castletroy Park Hotel and Castle Oaks House Hotel in Limerick, and Charleville Park Hotel in Cork — giving the group a particularly strong fit with Munster Rugby and its supporter base. The group also

includes Lough Rea Hotel & Spa in Galway, Athlone Springs Hotel and The Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise. Pat McDonagh, owner of Só Hotels, said the partnership was a natural fit. “Munster Rugby is one of the great sporting institutions of this country and we are delighted that Só Hotels will now become its Official Hotel Partner.” Munster’s Fineen Wycherley, Alex Nankivell & Diarmuid Kilgallen were pictured with Pat McDonagh, SÓ Hotels, at the Castle Oaks House Hotel, following the groups sponsorship of Munster Rugby. Photo by Marie Keating

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.

• Senior Executive Scientist Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 8th October 2026

• Library Assistant Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 8th October 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.

SPORT

Sport

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

FOOTBALL

KILMURRY IBRICKANE VS DOONBEG

CRATLOE VS ST BRECKAN’S

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER-FINAL: Kilmurry Ibrickane 1-15 Doonbeg 0-16 Venue: Páirc Cuar an Chláir, Cooraclare Referee: Chris Maguire (Wolfe Tones)

TUS CLARE SFC RELEGATION PLAY-OFF: Cratloe 4-14 St Breckan’s 1-16 Venue: Gurteen Referee: Eoin Keane (Corofin)

COMPILED BY PMC

COMPILED BY EOIN BRENNAN

KILMURRY IBRICKANE Frees for: 7 (3/4) Wides: 8 (7/1) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 1-14 Top scorer: Daryn Callinan (1-2 1TP) Yellow Cards: N/A Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 13 from 19 (68%)

DOONBEG Frees for: 13 (7/6) Wides: 5 (2/3) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 0-8 Top scorer: David Tubridy (0-8 2TPf 2f 1’45) Yellow Cards: Tadhg Lillis (57) Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 14 from 22 (63%)

Enda Coughlan, Kilmurry Ibrickane senior football manager: “We got a tough test in fairness, we’re happy to come out of it but I wouldn’t be overly happy with our performance. We looked like a beaten docket, we were lucky enough to turn it around, we won one last kickout that we had no right to win, Conor Kearney won it and set up Daryn Callinan for the two pointer so we were very lucky to get out of here with a win”. “We’ve created loads of chances in games, I’ve been saying it that we can’t miss as much as we’re missing and expect to win games, we’ve been lucky in a lot of games, we’ve been creating a lot of chances but we’re not scoring them, we had eighteen shots in the first half and we only scored seven, we can’t get away with that, the further you go you will not get away with it, we were very lucky to get out there”. “I think if we scored the chances we missed in the first half then we would have won the game, they were very economical and hadn’t too many wides, it is all about putting the ball over the bar in football, you can have all the possession you want but ultimately it comes down to who wants it the most and who can put the ball over the bar”. Brian Shanahan, Doonbeg senior football manager: “With fifteen minutes and injury time to

CRATLOE Frees For: 10 (6/4) Wides: 6 (4/2) Scores from Play: 4-10 Spread of Scorers: 7 Top Scorer: Cathal McInerney (2-3 2f) Yellow Cards (3): Marc O’Brien (36), Diarmuid Ryan (51), Tommy Rooney (66) Red Card (1): Ryan Bowden (40) Own Kick-Outs won: 15 from 23 (65%)

go there was only one team in it, I know we went six points down but our lads showed great determination to get back level, it just didn’t happen for us on the day, we had three great goal chances and I felt we needed one of them, it just didn’t happen for us on that side”. “We’re still a young squad, we improved an awful lot in twelve months and I think we can improve again next year, we’ll have James Killeen back and hopefully have Seán Conway back, we’ve three or four minors to come in next year to it to freshen up the panel. After this year’s championship I think we’re back up at the top pile again, we could have very easily beaten Éire Óg and Kilmurry Ibrickane, the two fancied favourites for the championship and we should have beaten both of them, we’re very disappointed but going forward for the next two to three years it looks good for Doonbeg”. “I want to compliment Chris Maguire, as a former referee, I know it was a tough game, I thought he had an excellent game, I know we tried to influence the square ball goal but it was a good goal, Eamon Tubridy even said it afterwards that it was a good goal, himself and his officials had an excellent game. I know we lost, normally when a team loses they blame the officials for this and that but to be fair to the officials and Chris Maguire they had an excellent game”.

ÉIRE ÓG VS ST JOSEPH’S DOORA/BAREFIELD TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER-FINAL: Éire Óg 3-20 St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield 2-11 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis Referee: Niall Quinn (St Joseph’s Miltown)

COMPILED BY PMC ÉIRE ÓG Frees for: 4 (2/2) Wides: 5 (3/2) Spread of scorers: 8 Scores from play: 3-17 Top scorer: Mark McInerney (1-10 3TP 2f) Yellow Cards: N/A Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 10 from 15 (67%)

ST JOSEPH’S DOORA/ BAREFIELD Frees for: 5 (3/2) Wides: 2 (1/1) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 2-9 Top scorer: Joe Rafferty (0-4 2f), Tom Curran (1-1) Yellow Cards: N/A Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 15 from 25 (60%)

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

EMMET’S EXHIBITION GETS HIM PLAYER OF THE WEEK AN EXHIBITION in shooting from Emmet McMahon not alone steered Kildysart to the Clare SFC semi-finals but secured him the Martin Daly Autos / The Clare Echo player of the week. A first senior semi-final in thirty nine years awaits Kildysart following their dramatic one point win over rivals Lissycasey in the first of the Clare SFC quarter-finals. McMahon produced a masterclass in shooting, finishing with 0-14, including six two pointers in the opening half as Kildysart established a ten point half-time lead. From distances of up to 65m, the Kildysart sharpshooter was in outstanding form, with eight of his ten efforts sailing between the posts in a display that earned attention across the country.

ST BRECKAN’S Frees For: 13 (8/5) Wides: 9 (3/6) Scores from Play: 1-6 Spread of Scorers: 3 Top Scorer: Jamie Stack (0-11 2TPf 6f) Yellow Cards (1): Jamie Stack (51) Red Cards (4): Tristan O’Callaghan (40) (maor uisce), Paudie Kelly (40) (maor uisce), Cathal Guerin (40), Colm O’Brien (52) Own Kick-Outs won: 15 from 21 (71%)

Éire Óg’s Darren Moroney takes the ball from Darragh O’Shea of St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield Photograph: Ruthie Griffin

Shane Daniels, Éire Óg senior football manager: “It was competitive, we played okay in the first half, we dropped in the second half and that is something we are going to have to look at. The game was really competitive, we got the scores in the first half and Doora/Barefield didn’t, we’re happy enough with aspects of it but we have loads to work on”. “Any time you concede a goal you are frustrated, any time you concede a point you are frustrated. We’ve loads to work on, we did some good things today but we did loads of bad stuff too, happy enough with the win but we have loads to work on”. “We want to score goals in every attack we have but sometimes you can’t. I thought at times we did well but at times we did stupid things with the ball, that is part and parcel of it”. Donagh Vaughan, St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield senior football manager: “We had a lot of preparation done coming into this game, we honestly came in with high expectations, we’ve a lot of work done, the boys have put in a super year, I’m so disappointed for them with the way the game went, we got a few late scores and still managed to hit seventeen points but the game was well and truly gone at that stage”. “That goal before half time put them thirteen points up, I know we were ten down but that was a hard blow. The boys’ attitude has always been great, they said they would give a right lash and we went for it, we tried the few big men inside, we got a bit of joy out of that. Overall I’ve no complaints, I wish Éire Óg the very best in the championship, they are a serious outfit, let’s see how they go out of this, we’ve no complaints”.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

S EN IOR FOOTBALL CH AM PION S H IP

KILDYSART VS LISSYCASEY

ST JOSEPH’S MILTOWN VS ENNISTYMON

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER-FINAL: Kildysart 0-21 Lissycasey 1-17 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chísóg, Ennis Referee: Barry Kelly (St Joseph’s Miltown)

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER-FINAL: St Joseph’s Miltown 3-18 Ennistymon 1-17 (after extra time) Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chísóg, Ennis Referee: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford)

COMPILED BY PMC

KILDYSART Frees for: 12 (6/6) Wides: 5 (4/1) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 0-11 Top scorer: Emmet McMahon (0-14 5TPf 1TP) Yellow Cards: N/A Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 12 from 23 (52%)

LISSYCASEY Frees for: 11 (6/5) Wides: 9 (4/5) Spread of scorers: 8 Scores from play: 1-13 Top scorer: Daire Culligan (1-3 1TP) Yellow Cards: N/A Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 8 from 18 (44%)

ST JOSEPH’S MILTOWN Frees for: 13 (4/6/0/1) Wides: 4 (2/2/0/0) Spread of scorers: 8 Scores from play: 2-15 Top scorer: Eoin Cleary (1-5 1TPf) Yellow Cards: Ralph Whelehan, Micheál Murray Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 20 from 31 (65%)

ENNISTYMON Frees for: 11 (6/2/2/1) Wides: 17 (8/4/4/1) Spread of scorers: 10 Scores from play: 1-16 Top scorer: Keelan Guyler (0-4 2TP) & Gearóid Barry (0-4 1TP) Yellow Cards: Seán Rynne (64) Black Cards: N/A Red Cards: N/A Own kickouts won: 12 from 22 (55%)

Kildysart midfielder Keith O’Connor keeps the ball from his Lissycasey counterpart Matt O’Shea Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

Niall Ginnane, Kildysart senior football manager: “Again we had a huge impact off the bench, we brought in Conor Moloney and he gave us more altitude in the half-back line, it was always going to swing, to and fro, if you break fifty fifty on the kickouts on a day like this then you’re doing well, we have been used to getting a few more but fair play to Lissycasey, they scrapped in the air and on the ground, they went at us toe to toe, every chance they got they went at us in twos and threes, I’m delighted with our lads, they are really playing to the sixty third minute, they don’t know how to lose”. “We were struggling a bit in the first half, our front three were starved of the ball but the middle eight was really busy with a lot of traffic and it was hard to break through it, we were drawing fouls and getting frees, Emmet of course was punishing them every chance he got so fair play to him”. “We set targets for ourselves at the start of the year, we are following the plan, we’re happy with how things are going, we’re delighted with the crowd that come to follow us, they are excellent. We must give a shout-out to our newest member of our squad, Conall Flanagan, his father Ian and mother Patty had a baby today so Ian wasn’t with us, a big shout out to the newest member of our squad”.

David Considine, Lissycasey senior football manager: “It was a game that had an awful lot in it, we were well behind at half time, I wouldn’t have said it was a ten point wind to any team but in fairness to the lads we not only clawed that back but went two points clear. We went a point up again and then Luke hit the winner for them, it gave us literally no time to get the ball back and go up the field to try equalise ourselves, it was a game that had a bit of everything, I would have been really happy with a lot of the first half, at various stages playing into the breeze we were comfortable on the ball and opened up scoring opportunities, we missed four but you’d be hoping to get one or two more at minimum, we were only 0-6 0-4 down with eighteen minutes gone, we weren’t looking too bad but then Kildysart hit a purple patch where they had an awful lot of frees around the 45/65m radius, Emmet is regularly in form but he has that five or ten metres longer in his kicks which means you can’t really give away frees in your own half, that period from the twentieth to thirtieth minute where we heavily penalised on breaking ball, catches and a couple of frees which were put over the bar for two pointers”. “The most disappointing thing is we put ourselves in a position after being ten points down to be a point up with a breeze behind us, there’s lots of learnings for our group. It is disappointing to lose first and foremost, it was a tough way to lose, the only way a team will grow is if they learn from those and learn from the defeats, they are harsh lessons but that is hopefully how the group can come back stronger”.

CLARE IFC: Clondegad & Cooraclare crash out with Naomh Eoin, Kilrush, Banner & Wolfe Tones through to semi-finals Liscannor’s Cian Guerin takes on Robert Cassidy of Michael Cusacks Photograph: Burren Eye Photography

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Ennistymon’s Brendy Rouine is tackled by his first cousin Stephen Murphy of St Joseph’s Miltown with Cormac Devitt also giving chase Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

Seán O’Brien, St Joseph’s Miltown senior football manager: “It’s pure happiness, it was different twenty minutes ago when we were three points down in injury time but we worked a really good two pointer and got the momentum to get level, we didn’t win too many breaks but we won one when it really counted, when we got the free it was game on for extra time and I felt we had loads of momentum going into extra time, we carried it through to the first half of it”. “We did talk during the week that everything was a possibility, we felt the lads had an awful lot of work done this year, we have legs everywhere and I felt we would be able to do well in extra time, that is what all the work from earlier in the year was money in the bank and this was withdrawal time”. “We wanted to be back training next week, we wanted to be together as a group for another stint, we’ve done that and earned ourselves two more weeks anyway, we’ll see how we go”.

Declan Downes, Ennistymon senior football manager: “You would hope your conversion rate would be a small bit higher but I was still happy at half time, we were going in with a lead, the breeze was dying away so I didn’t think it would be as significant an issue in the second half and I felt we would score because of the type of players we have and their ability to move the ball, I was quite happy that we would get scores in the second half and get us in a position to win the game and as it transpired we got 1-8 in the second half”. “We were three points up going into injury time, a bit of experience from Miltown saw them get a well worked two pointer to get them within one point and a little bit of inexperience on our behalf in how we defended that and the subsequent one point free, that is the experience that Miltown have, they have guys with three county medals, they had the know-how that stood to them at the end to manage it. I was very pleased with how we got impact off the bench and put ourselves in a winning position”.

Sport

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 FOOTBALL

Talty plays coaching role as Rathmore triumph in Kerry By Páraic McMahon

QUILTY’s Evan Talty was part of the management with Rathmore as they ended an eleven year wait to win the Kerry senior club championship for only the second time. Talty was coach of the East Kerry side managed by two-time All Star and five-time All-Ireland winner Aidan O’Mahony. Rathmore ended Dr Crokes’ bid for three titles in a row when they emerged 2-10 0-12 winners. Sunday proved to be a hectic afternoon for the nine-time Clare SFC winner who managed to juggle all of his coaching commitments. He was on the sideline in Páirc Cuar an Chláir as his native Kilmurry Ibrickane survived a Doonbeg comeback to qualify for the Clare SFC semifinals while he had a remote role from home in providing advice to Rathmore and Roscommon club St Brigids who he is involved with for a second year, following their run to the All-Ireland club decider following their Connacht success last season. Dealing with the fixture clashes has been “tough,” he admitted. “I’d love to have been involved in the Kerry county final and be there instead of rushing out of Cooraclare, get through the traffic and rush to TG4 with the AirPods

in, having TG4 on one screen and Clubber on the other with two sets of AirPods going with two different management teams trying to do live stats as well, it was fair going but if I’m being honest I probably took on too much, I was doing a favour for Aidan and to be honest I have learned loads. The way I’d look at it is I like to get out and about to experience other counties, when an opportunity came to coach inside Kerry with the likes of Paul Murphy and to have Shane Ryan who is the Kerry goalkeeper have helped me out on analysis is a big learning curve to see how they see the game of football being played, how they love to kick the ball, I jumped at the opportunity to get underneath the hood of Kerry football and see could I learn anything and bring it back to Clare or our own clubs. Essentially that is it, I get out and about the country, I clock up a lot of mileage but all with the view of seeing what I can learn elsewhere and bring it back to our own county”. O’Mahony led the club he played for twenty five years to county success in his first season in charge, after stepping down as manager of Macroom in Cork last year. With Dingle among their opponents in the club championship, Aidan was keen to harness the intel that Talty had

given that they faced off with St Brigids in the All-Ireland club final. “Myself and Aidan O’Mahony go back a long way, we know each other a long time, he mentioned that he would try get me to do a session or two with Macroom when he was with them last year but it never materialised because of St Brigids and I had made a commitment to Brigids that I would get up in July this year. Because we had an awful long run last year I said I wanted to be at home a bit more, we have a new baby so I had an agreement with Brigids that I would go back for the championship in July. I had a Wednesday night available and he got on to me after the league, they were in the league in Kerry and were playing Dingle which was six weeks out from championship, we would have done a lot of work on them ahead of the All-Ireland club final with St Brigids so he said I had good knowledge of Dingle and asked me to come in six weeks ahead of that game, do a night a week because they had lads coming back from America, county players like Paul Murphy and Shane Ryan coming back so I did. Their aim was to stay senior at the start, they were in a tough group with Dingle, Dr Crokes and Spa, only two came out of it and two went into relegation so there was a big focus on getting a win,”

Evan Talty

Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

he outlined. Weekly trips from West Clare to East Kerry also accompany his 332km round trek to St Brigids training. “It is tough going leaving home at half four to get the ferry at five o’clock, drive to training in Rathmore and go home by road up by Mallow and I don’t get home till midnight so it has been tough going trying to manage that and being back with Brigids and they have been good enough to have me doing a night a week which will have to pick up now to two nights a week and I’ve made a commitment to Kilmurry Ibrickane”. It was three from three on Sunday for Evan with Rathmore, Kilmurry and St Brigids all winning.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, the founder of iGaelicCoach admitted the clashes have been frustrating. “The fixtures decision has been tricky, Brigids and Kilmurry have fallen on the same weekend, Rathmore have played for the last six weekends in a row nearly so, everyone is understanding that it is always Kilmurry first and if there is a clash that it is the way it is going to be, they are my club, it is fairly frustrating at the moment with the way things are going for us, we’re in a semi-final but not setting the world alight, I’ve great affiliation for them boys so I wouldn’t miss it for the world, even being on the sideline for Kilmurry is a privilege so we’ll see what happens, we’ve two semi-finals to come with Brigids and Kilmurry, Rathmore have the county championship with all the amalgamations in two weeks time, I don’t know if I can give them much and my focus will be with Kilmurry and Brigids for the next couple of weeks and we’ll see how that goes, hopefully get a break sometime soon”. Last month, he confirmed his exit from the Limerick senior football management after two seasons. He described it as “a hugely progressive environment that was open to embracing a skill acquisition role at inter-county level”.

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Six Clare hurlers received All Star nominations By Páraic McMahon

BROADFORD’S Niall O’Farrell and Seán Rynne of Inagh/ Kilnamona receive their firstever All Star nominations with goalkeeper Eibhear Quilligan, captain Tony Kelly, wing back Diarmuid Ryan and full-forward Peter Duggan also making the shortlist. Netminder Quilligan receives an All Star nomination for the fourth time. He returned to action ahead of schedule at the beginning of 2026, recovering from an MCL injury to help lead Clare’s return to the top tier of the Allianz National Hurling League. He produced a man of the match display in the All-Ireland quarterfinal when pulling off seven saves against Dublin to help Clare qualify for the last four, this was one of two championship games where he kept clean sheets, the other seeing Clare defeat Tipperary 1-25 0-17. In his first starting season, O’Farrell’s showings at wing back have been recognised, his debut campaign seeing him nail down a starting berth in defence. He featured for every minute of Clare’s Munster SHC run and scored a point from wing back in the All-Ireland quarter-final wing over Dublin. A Croke Cup winner with Ard Scoil Rís, the semifinal loss to Limerick was his first outing in Croke Park since winning the All-Ireland

Tony Kelly

Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

PPS competition in 2022 when he finished as top scorer. A member of the Clare senior hurling panel since 2023, this year marked the breakthrough season for a patient Seán Rynne. He grabbed the opportunity with both hands and finished the championship with a personal tally of 0-14, all of which came from play and included bursts of five points against both Waterford and Dublin. His younger brother Conor was part of the All-Ireland and Munster U20 winning panel this season. Cratloe’s Diarmuid Ryan

is nominated for an All Star for the fourth time. The primary school teacher made his championship debut in 2019 and has been an ever-present member of the starting side every championship year since. In 2024, he was presented with the Outstanding Achievement of the Year Award when graduating from Mary Immaculate College. His older brother Conor won an All Star in 2013 after delivering a man of the match display in the drawn All-Ireland final of that year. Following that All-Ireland winning season thirteen

years ago, Tony Kelly was named both Hurler of the Year and Young Hurler of the Year, the Ballyea man continues to light it up on the biggest stage and is acknowledged once again with an All Star nomination at midfield. Already with five All Stars in his collection, he is Clare’s record All Star winner. He scored 1-5 in Clare’s All-Ireland semifinal loss to Limerick and a total of 2-31 acorss the championship. An All Star winner in 2018, Peter Duggan is nominated for the third time. The Clooney/Quin clubman once again gave every last ounce drop when wearing the saffron and blue in 2026, scoring 1-11 including two sideline cuts. He was primarily positioned at full forward this season but drifted between there and the half-forward line. All-Ireland champions Limerick have received thirteen nominations. Beaten finalists Galway have eleven players shortlisted with Cork (seven), Clare (six), Dublin (three), Waterford (two), Offaly (two) and Kilkenny (one) completing the line-up. Diarmaid Byrnes and Gearoid Hegarty who were named Hurler of the Year in 2022 and 2020 respectively are nominated for the honour once again alongside Cork forward Brian Hayes. The winner will be chosen by the players.

Nominated for Young Hurler of the Year are Galway duo Jason Rabbitte and Cillian Travers along with Cork’s William Buckley. The All-Stars were first held in 1971. This year’s awards will be presented at a gala black-tie function

held at Dublin’s RDS and shown live on RTÉ on Friday, October 30. The nominations were chosen by a panel of Gaelic games correspondents from across print, radio, tv and digital media, chaired by Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Semi-finals to savour for Scariff, Kilmaley, Éire Óg & Inagh/Kilnamona By Páraic McMahon

SEMI-FINAL stage of the Clare senior hurling championship sees the battle to lift the Canon Hamilton crank up a gear. Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg is the setting for both semi-finals which at the outset are very close to call and have the potential to be two very exciting contests. On Saturday, it’s a repeat of the 2004 semi-final where Kilmaley and Scariff face off at 16:30 with Joe Mullins of Clonlara the match referee. Sunday is the turn of Éire Óg and Inagh/Kilnamona to clash in the Park with throwin scheduled for 15:30 when Whitegate’s John Bugler will fire the sliotar in. Twenty two years ago, Scariff and Kilmaley faced off at the penultimate stage with Kilmaley prevailing 1-13 2-8 on that occasion. Donal Moloney was in charge of Scariff on that occasion and can remember “every minute” of the game where current coach Conor McNamara landed two points, current selector Ger Rodgers lined out at corner back with Michael Scanlan who is expected to feature on Saturday was brought on as a substitute. It will be the fourth meeting in five years between Scariff and Kilmaley. All those meetings were in the group stages with the record standing 2-0 in favour of Kilmaley with the sides drawing in 2023. It was 1-31 2-18 in the third round last season while Kilmaley were 1-21 1-17 victors in their 2022 third round clash. Scariff have been hit hard with injuries with Keelan Hartigan (hamstring) and Paul Rodgers (ankle) joining the queue for the treatment table which also includes Patrick Ryan and Liam Crotty. Harigan is understood to have made a strong recovery with Rodgers on course to maintain his starting berth in his debut senior season. “I’ve never seen a year like it, it is a great testament to the squad that we’ve been able to fill in the gaps so far and we’ll be doing that again on Saturday,” Moloney said of their injuries. Heading into the third round, Scariff hadn’t won a game and needed to beat Crusheen by ten points,

they did that and more with a 2-27 2-14 victory sealing their place in the knockout stages where they eliminated last year’s finalists Clooney/Quin. “We were as good as out bar that last minute Crusheen goal against Broadford, it gave us a lifeline and when we did the maths we had to beat Crusheen by ten points to qualify for a quarter-final, to beat Crusheen on any day is tough but by ten points was a big task, it worked out for us on the day and in the last quarter particularly. Lads have worked very hard, Broadford beat us fair and square in the first round, we were much better against Éire Óg, we should have won that game but we got caught in the last few minutes so it isn’t as if we have been performing poorly, we had a very good league up until the final too, there was very little wrong, we just needed to adjust a few things and we are where we are,” Donal told The Clare Echo. A heartbreaking semifinal exit to eventual winners Éire Óg ended Kilmaley’s season in 2025. They’ve returned to the penultimate stage and it is the first time since 2001 that they have made successive semifinals, reaching the last four in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001, prevailing against Scariff in 1998 before losing to Sixmilebridge for three years running. Manager Brian Culbert is in his fourth year involved with Kilmaley, the Sixmilebridge native admitted, “We never mention about getting back to where we were last year because each year brings a new challenge, new teams and a totally different approach, you’re trying to bring new fellas forward and a new team, we’ve made changes like Mikey O’Malley going to centre back plus some small other changes to try make the team better. We’re back in a semifinal, we’ve had four tough games, all of them games could have gone either way up until the three quarter stage of each match, we’ve earned our spot and we’re delighted to be there, ourselves and Scariff are only sixty minutes away from either club ending a long spell to be in a final so we’ll both give it our best shot”. Culbert insisted they

Aaron Fitzgerald

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

will not lose their focus by worrying about matchups with an exciting Scariff attack. “Rather than being safe, we like running a risk and taking a chance on a fella and giving as many fellas as much time as we can, we have twenty four senior players at the moment which is a big enough number for any club that can actively play senior. I have three or four fellas if they weren’t playing intermediate or if the intermediates were knocked out that would be in contention to come on at the weekend but different players are at different stage of their development and the best thing for them might be to stay at intermediate for another year or two before coming up, you have to be open-minded and give lads a chance, if you don’t give a fella a chance then you will never know how good is he going to be, it’s not just a thing of sticking him in for one match and leaving him alone. We played a match last week and we made sure that all the felllas in contention were getting a game and getting a fullblooded game to see where they are to put their hand up and say I can contribute next weekend”. Mikey O’Neill is the main injury doubt for Kilmaley

who last lifted the Canon Hamilton in 2004. “A few of the football lads picked up knocks but they will be fine in the main, Mikey O’Neill is the only threat, if you ask a doctor with a PhD he would tell you Mikey O’Neill hasn’t a chance of playing but anyone that knows Mikey O’Neill knows that he will decide on Saturday morning if he is ready to play, that is the type of fella he is, he is giving himself every opportunity to try and be right, it is unlikely but we will see, knowing the man that he is, he will do everything in his power if he is twenty percent right to try play, we’ll make that call on Saturday but that is the only out and out doubt”. Champions Éire Óg put their title on the line against Inagh/Kilnamona in what will be the fifth meeting in six seasons between the clubs. It is the first time since 2021 that the clubs meet in the semi-finals which ironically was the last time Inagh/ Kilnamona prevailed at the last four juncture. They met in last year’s quarter-final where Éire Óg were 3-21 1-17 winners. At the same stage of the competition in 2024 it was Inagh/Kilnamona that won 2-16 0-20 while the 2022 quarter-final went the way of Éire Óg on a 2-21

0-16 scoreline. As Éire Óg eased into the last four of the Clare SFC semi-finals last weekend, they did so without Aaron Fitzgerald, David McNamara and Jarlath Collins. Of the trio, Fitzgerald has the least prospect of returning. “Aaron is a serious doubt and will be right up until the game, we will do a fitness test with him before the game, he warmed up with the footballers on Sunday evening and he wasn’t able to take part, he is the biggest single injury concern that we have at the moment,” manager Gerry O’Connor stated. O’Connor pointed to their continued squad development for assisting their run to a fifth semifinal in eight years. Getting over the line to win a first championship in thirty five years has strengthened the belief of the Ennis side. “Until we got across the line and won a championship last year we were always very envious of Ballyea and Sixmilebridge, how once they won one that they were able to go and add to that, the belief and confidence that winning brings, knowing how to close out tight championship matches, you can talk about it for as long as you like but you have to

go through the pain, we went through considerable pain for the bones of ten years before we got across the line, there is no silver bullet that allows you to get that belief, you have to go out and earn that, every game and victory in Clare you bloody well earn it, that is a significant advantage that we feel we would have over Inagh/Kilnamona in that regard”. When Inagh/Kilnamona last beat Éire Óg in a semifinal, Eugene Cullinan was at the helm. He returned as manager at the beginning of this year, his charges are unbeaten in four championship outings. “I do know well how to beat them, I also know they beat us the following year, I definitely recognise there isn’t much between the two teams to be honest, it is going to take a huge effort to get over the line on Sunday against Éire Óg, we’ve gained a bit of confidence in the teams we’ve played in the group, some of the top teams in Clare, coming into the quarter-final against Cratloe, a team with some really seasoned players and a sprinkling of youth in their team, they are a very dangerous team, we had a huge battle with Cratloe, we’re hardened for the battle with Éire Óg on Sunday”. Joining him on the sideline is ex Éire Óg manager Matt Shannon who guided the Townies to contest the 2022 decider which is sure to add some excitement to the semi-final. The Combo “have a couple of niggles and knocks but in general we feel we nearly have a full hand to pick from on Sunday”. He told The Clare Echo, “There’s definitely a pep in the step and a buzz in the camp, getting over the line against some of the top teams in Clare it does bring a bit of belief into the players, there is a confidence there that whatever the outcome will be that we’re going to get a performance on Sunday, we’re going to fight on our backs and it is going to be a real battle, we’re going to come out fighting against Éire Óg on Sunday”. Interviews with each manager available on clareecho.ie/subscribe.

Sport

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026 CAM OGIE

Truagh/Clonlara turn it around while Kilmaley end twelve-year wait By Ann Marie McGann T R U AG H / C LO N L A R A ended Inagh/Kilnamona’s reign as Clare senior camogie champions, coming from eight points down to win by eight. Truagh/Clonlara 4-12 Inagh/Kilnamona 2-10 Venue: O’Garney Park, Sixmilebridge Inagh/Kilnamona opened their scoring through Aoibhin Ryan with a brace of frees. The first major score came after excellent work from Andrea O’Keeffe, who found space, carried the ball forward and finished confidently passed Sophie Cullen. Her ability to exploit space was a feature of the opening stages, while Cliodhna Queally was also heavily involved around the middle of the field, winning primary possession. Tr u a g h / C l o n l a r a continued to create opportunities, with Niamh Ryan coming to the fore adding a goal in the tenth minute after a superb ball across the opposition’s defence. Inagh/Kilnamona’s lack of questioning for a square ball proved strange as Ryan was within touching distance of Cara McInerney when she got the finishing touch on the ball to place it in the back of the net. Pressure continued to mount from Truagh/ Clonlara with Áine O’Loughlin getting on the scoreboard. The positioning of Clare Hehir would prove vital for Inagh/Kilnamona as she got the Combo’s second goal on the twelfth minute, but soon after, injury would see her exit the field of play. At thirty two minutes, the scoreboard showed Inagh/Kilnamona 2-9 to 1-4 ahead, underlining their greater efficiency in front of goal. Despite the deficit, Truagh/ Clonlara continued to threaten, with several promising attacks by Aine O’Loughlin breaking down eventually through turnovers or strong defensive challenges. Emerging from the dressing room in animal form, whatever was said at half time had the desired effect on the South-East Clare side. They produced a powerful second half display to take complete control. Having shown plenty of promise and attacking intent in the

opening half, Inagh/ Kilnamona were unable to reproduce that form after the restart. The loss of Clare Hehir was a factor as they seemed to lose attacking impetus that had been evident, but talent in abundance elsewhere should have taken over. Meanwhile Truagh/Clonalra sensed an opportunity and went for the jugular. Laura Foley opened the second half from a free fifty metres out straight between the posts and she would ultimately follow suit swiftly with another from play. Niamh Ryan then got in on the second half act, with their forward lines beginning to find gaps and move the ball with increasing confidence. Another score from Roisin Begley was followed by another from Niamh Ryan, and suddenly the scoreboard was moving in Truagh Clonlara’s favour, by the end of the third quarter they trailed by three. One of the standout performers during this surge was Aine O’Loughlin. Coming out to the wing, O’Loughlin was immense for her side. Her movement, work rate and ability to catch ball helped give an important outlet. The decisive blow arrived with Begley finding the net, turning a strong period of pressure into a major scoring advantage and bringing the sides level for the first time on the forty seventh minute. I n a g h / K i l n a m o n a ’s woes continued as a wayward ball from O’Loughlin was deflected in passed McInerney on the fifty third minute. Aoibhin Ryan would try to rally the troops but was ultimately wrapped up time and time again, and she would garner the only score for Inagh/ Kilnamona in the second half on the fifty sixth minute. Begley and Niamh Ryan ultimately put the nail in the coffin scoring 1.1 between them in the final three minutes to see Truagh/Clonlara return to another county final. Scorers Truagh/ Clonlara: Roisin Begley 2-4 (1f), Niamh Ryan 1-4, Laura Foley 0-3 (1f), Aine O’Loughlin 0-1. Scorers Inagh/ Kilnamona: Aoibhin Ryan 0-8 (6f), Andrea O’Keeffe 1-1, Clare Hehir 1-0, Cliodhna Queally 0-1. Inagh/Kilnamona:

Truagh/Clonlara forwards Áine O’Loughlin and Leah Hawes celebrate Photo by Ruthie Griffin

Cara McInerney, Cathy Cullinan, Shauna Queally, Sinead Power, Jane Fitzgerald, Laoise Ryan, Teresa O’Keeffe, Cliodhna Queally, Danielle Griffin, Aoife Keane, Andrea O’Keeffe, Clare Hehir, Aoibhin Ryan, Kate Dowling, Elisha Rynne. Subs: Emer Burke for C Hehir (17) (inj), Hannah Shannon for S Queally (49). Tr u a g h / C l o n l a r a : Sophie Cullen, Eimear Begley, Michelle Powell, Taylor Morris, Niamh Powell, Michelle Caulfield, Ellen Horgan, Laura Foley, Aoibhin Marren, Hannah Horgan, Áine O’Loughlin, Joanne Egan, Eimear Kelly, Roisin Begley, Niamh Ryan. Subs: Leah Hayes for Eimear Kelly (27), Sinead Hogg for Niamh Powell (45), Lauren Slater for Hannah Horgan (55). Referee: Kieran Liddane (Sixmilebridge) KILMALEY are through to a first Clare senior camogie final in twelve years after shocking Scariff/Ogonnelloe. Kilmaley 0-13 Scariff/Ogonnelloe 1-7 Venue: O’Garney Park, Sixmilebridge What’s another year? Well for Kilmaley it has been twelve of them, but at long last, the wait is over and a place in the McMahon Cup Final is just a mere number of days away. Kilmaley produced an impressive first-half

performance to take a two-point lead into the interval against Scariff/ Ogonnelloe in this Clare Credit Unions Senior Camogie championship semi-final. Caoimhe Cahill’s presence in the starting team for the first time in this year’s championship provided the biggest of all boosts for Kilmaley. An inspirational player any day she takes to the field and none more so than in a McMahon Cup semi final. Having suffered a devastating shoulder injury whilst taking to the field for the county flagship team during the earlier part of the year, her return was one that Scariff/Ogonnelloe may not have factored in for inspiration to their opponents. In a fiercely contested opening half, both sides showed plenty of intensity, with space at a premium and defences working hard to restrict the opposition’s attacking options. Kilmaley opened the game with two frees from Claire McMahon but Scariff/Ogonnelloe would soon find their feet and made their intensions known with opening scores through a number of well-taken points and a goal from Mairead Scanlon and shots on target from Jennifer Daly and Aoife Power, with Scanlon and Daly proving difficult to contain whenever they found space.

Kilmaley continued to threaten, through Claire McMahon, with the Carmody sisters, Grace and Caoimhe, involved in some promising passages of possession for Kilmaley supplying ball to Caoimhe Cahill, McMahon and Regan Conway, with the latter scoring a flurry of frees. Kilmaley finished the half on the front foot and could have been further ahead, but S c a r i f f/ O g o n n e l l o e ’s defence stood firm with goalkeeper Rachel Daly saving a Claire McMahon shot. Leading 0-9 1-4, Kilmaley were in a strong position at the interval but the contest remained finely poised. Cahill was central to Kilmaley’s efforts as she took serious minding and added a point as Kilmaley regained level pegging. At the other end, Scariff/Ogonnelloe continued to search for openings, but Kilmaley’s defensive structure remained difficult to penetrate. Considine picked at every loose ball that came her way and ultimately when it did eventually get passed her, Sinead O’Keeffe was to the fore. The intensity increased as the half progressed, with a number of challenges

and stoppages adding to the drama. None was more significant than Susan Daly’s yellow card for pulling back Cahill as she had a clear run at goal. Just five minutes later, Daly was involved again, catching Cahill with an accidental flick to the helmet. Having already been booked, Daly was fortunate to escape a second yellow card and Kilmaley could sense it was their time. Both teams made changes in an effort to inject fresh energy, with Kilmaley making good use of their bench in bringing on Shonagh Enright and Emily Cahill as the game moved into the final quarter. Scariff/Ogonnelloe managed only three points in the second half and were held scoreless for a long period during the closing stages. Kilmaley’s defensive discipline was ultimately decisive as they refused to allow their opponents the second goal they so badly needed. Kilmaley now advance to the county final after a performance built on defensive organisation, hard work and composure when the pressure was at its greatest. Scorers Kilmaley: Regan Conway 0-4 (4f),

Claire McMahon 0-3 (3f), Grace Carmody 0-2, Kate Hayes 0-2, Caoimhe Cahill 0-1, Caoimhe Carmody 0-1. Scorers Scariff/ Ogonnelloe: Mairead Scanlon 1-5 (3f), Aoife Power 0-1, Jennifer Daly 0-1. Kilmaley: Maria Burke, Helen McMahon, Sinead O’Keeffe, Jodie Cahill, Moira Maher, Eimear Considine, Chloe Neylon, Shauna Melican, Martina Keane, Grace Carmody, Reagan Conway, Caoimhe Carmody, Kate Hayes, Claire McMahon, Caoimhe Cahill. Subs: Emily Carmody for M Keane (47), Shauna Enright for C Carmody (51). Scariff/Ogonnelloe: Rachael Daly, Robyn Mckenna, Holly Mcgee, Bonnie Wiley Murphy, Aine Rodgers, Labhaoise O’Donnell, Abby Walsh, Lynda Daly, Tara Murnane, Lorraine Grady, Aoife Power, Jennifer Daly, Mairead Scanlan, Alva Rodgers, Caoimhe McNulty. Subs: Rachel Minogue for A Rodgers (HT), Susan Daly for T Murnane (HT), Danielle Beston for L O’Donnell (46), Joanna O’Grady for C McNulty (52). Referee: Kevin Corry (Sixmilebridge)

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Eimear Considine battles with Mairead Scanlon Photo by Ruthie Griffin

EIMEAR LEADS THE WAY TO WIN PLAYER OF THE WEEK AS KILMALEY MAKE FINAL RETURN

CENTRAL figure in Kilmaley’s return to a first senior camogie final in twelve years was Eimear Considine to CENTRAL figure in Kilmaley’s return to a first senior camogie final in twelve years was Eimear Considine to see her named as the Clare Credit Unions / The Clare Echo player of the week. Reaching a semi-final would have been considered a legitimate target for Kilmaley when they set out in the championship but they caused a big upset when deservingly seeing off Scariff/Ogonnelloe in Saturday’s semi-final. It tees up a novel decider against Truagh/Clonlara and a first appearance in the county final since 2014 for Kilmaley.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

Sport

GOLF

Ennis win Burren Cup & Kilker wins ladies masters in Woodstock By Seamus Hayes ENNIS ladies defeated East Clare in the Burren Cup final at Gort last Saturday while Anne Kilker won the ladies masters in Woodstock. Ennis Golf Club: The final was a very close contest, with the teams finishing all square at 2½ matches each. Ennis secured the victory on the 20th hole, making for a thrilling finish to a tremendous final. The members of the panel are Sinead O’Sullivan, Patricia O’Reilly, Joan Murphy, Attracta Williams, Una O’Reilly, Rose Sharkey, Martina Corbett, Audrey McEnery, Ethna Murphy, Helen Harnett, Betty O’Reilly, Maeve Hoey, Anna Marie Darmody, Marian Irwin and Margaret Flanagan. The team managers were Helen Gallery and Kathleen Frehill. The Ennis team put in a fantastic performance, finishing third out of the eight clubs that qualified from the regional finals. Baltinglass were first followed by Killarney with Ennis in third place. GolfSixes is a fun and exciting six-hole team format, with each hole measuring approximately 100–150 metres. The competition is played as a two-ball scramble, with any combination of the six-player team able to compete. Each club must have a minimum of

two boys and two girls on their team of six. The Ennis team members were Ronan Lahiffe, Oisín Hennessy, Síofra Corry, Andrea Fox, Conor Murphy and Cillian Carrig. This year, an impressive 158 clubs took part in the Golf Ireland Junior Sixes. Last week’s men’s stableford competition was won by Ruairi Meehan (12) with 40 points and he was one ahead of Tony Lawlor (16) with third place filled by Patrick Cuddy (23) also with 39 points. Last week’s ladies 18 hole singles stableford competition was won by Marie Connolly (45) with 39 points while the category winners were Mary Lenihan (16) with 35 points, Josephine Tone (34) with 35 points and Valerie Wall (47) with 32 points. Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Patrick Murphy, Tony McInerney, Mike Irwin and Peter Quinn with 74 points from Pádraig Cusack, Paul Mockler, Jim Farrell and John Gavin with 69 points. East Clare Golf Club: East Clare ladies outing to Portumna was won by Joyce Purcell, Brid Hayes and Mary Noonan from Evelyn O’Brien, Phil Burke and Mary Stritch with third place filled by Maureen Clune, Siobhan Mulcahy, Mary Farrell

and Breda O’Loghlin. Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Sean Ahern, John Collins and Joe Fitzgerald with 76 points. They won by three from Nick Ryan, Chris Davis and Willie Roche with third place filled by Brian Corry, Batt Skehan and Mike Noonan with 71 points. East Clare Senior men travelled to Tralee G.C. to play Tralee Seniors in the Arthur Spring Cup. This competition venue alternates yearly between East Clare and Tralee. On this occasion the East Clare seniors recorded their first victory at Tralee and claimed the trophy. Dromoland Golf Club: The men’s competition at Dromoland on Sunday was the Fred O’Flanagan trophy which was won by Evan O’Mara with 6 up and he was one ahead of Diarmuid O’Connor with Gerry McInerney, also with 5 up in third place. Vinny Derham won the category for handicappers of 20 and over with 2 down while the gross was won by Eanna McMahon with 1 down. The ladies competition was the Eye Candy sponsored mixed which was won by Michelle McCarthy and Gary Neville with 53 points and they were one ahead of Joan and Niall Dunne 52 with third place filled

Anne Kilker winner of the Ladies Masters 2026 in Woodstock, sponsored by Heaslips, pictured with Lady Captain Mags Nash and President Mary McNamara.

by Maureen McKeogh and Colm Fitzgerald with 51 points. The 18 hole stableford competition was won by Niamh McDermott with 36 points with third place filled by Katrina O’Neill with 33 points. Spanish Point Golf Club: Spanish Point ladies have qualified for the final of the Ann Heskin inter club competition. On Sunday last they defeated Ballybunion in the semi-final at Kilrush and will play Templemore in the final at Mallow on October 11. Shannon Golf Club: The men’s competition at Shannon at the weekend was the special voucher which was won by Jason Hegarty (16) with 39 points. He won on a countback from Pat McKenna (12).

Wednesday’s men’s open singles was won by Jamie O’Gorman (7) with 38 points and he won on a countback from Kevin McKillican (12). The gross was won by Edward Hickey (+1) with 35 points. Kilrush Golf Club: The AON Physiotherapy men’s open singles at Kilrush at the weekend was won by Ian Dillon (24) with 39 points. He won on a countback from Shane Carey (15) with third place filled by Martin Queally (14) with 38 points. The gross was won by Padraic O’Dubhshlaine. Woodstock Golf Club: The winner of the mid week open singles was Jason Dormer (4) with 40 points. He won on a countback from

C YC L I N G

nedy, who had claimed the National Masters time trial title just one day earlier. The Burren team of Shannon, Kennedy & Jarlath Hassett also picked up the overall Masters team prize. Both men head into the winter in outstanding form. Kennedy’s win came only weeks after he travelled to Niseko, Japan, to defend his UCI Gran Fondo World title, a trip that turned into one of the more dramatic stories of his career when a paperwork mixup left him unable to ride his own time trial bike, forcing him to borrow a bike and shoes from an Australian rival minutes before the start. He still

with 81, Mags Nash with 85, Eilis Neville with 86, Teresa Sherlock with 91 and Mary Gleeson. The Spring league winners for 2026 are Eilis Neville and Marie McNamara. Gort Golf Club: The men’s competition at Gort on Sunday was an 18 hole stableford competition and the overall winner was Gabriel Kearney (16) with 43 points. The category winners were Peter Deegan (8) with 40 points, John Hynes (13) with 42 points and Philip Dunne (21) with 42 points while the gross was won by Mark Deegan (4) with 34 points. Kildysart Golf Society: Roscrea was the venue for Kildysart Golf society captain’s (Cyril Kelly) prize last week when Chris Bravender emerged with the top prize with 40 points. He won on a countback from Tony McMahon with Padraig O’Dubhslaine in third spot with 37 points followed by David Clancy with 36 points. Ger Kelly won the guests section from Noel Garry. Other prize winners included Padraig O’Dubhslaine (long drive), John Clancy (nearest the pin at the 8th hole), John McNeilis (nearest the pin at the 11th), Josh Bravender (front 9), Martin Bobby Kelly (back 9), John Clancy (par 3 competition).

GREYHOUNDS

Burren Cycling Club enjoy big weekend at the Irish National Masters Road Race Championships BURREN Cycling Club enjoyed a standout weekend at the Irish National Masters Road Race Championships in Kilmacthomas, Co. Waterford, as their riders won national titles in their respective age categories. Paul Kennedy delivered a dominant solo performance to win the National Masters 45- 49 age category title, finishing 2:43 ahead of Ronan Killeen of Lucan CRC. Clubmate Mark Shannon placed third overall and won the highly competitive Masters 40–44 age category, securing a 1–3 finish for Burren CC. The victory capped a remarkable few days for Ken-

Frank Landy (14) with third place filled by Niall Gleeson (12) with 39 points. The weekend competition was a club singles which was won by Declan Farrelly (19) with 39 points while the gross was won by Ronan O Looney with 33 points. The category winners were Ross Kenny (8) with 39 points, Tony Neville (14) with 38 points and William De Oliveira (22) with 37 points. The open singles continues on this Thursday while the weekend competition will be an open singles. The final Thursday evening mixed scramble of the season took place at Woodstock last week when the winners were Joe Barry, Teresa Sherlock, Vincent O’Grady and Neilus Butler with 20.4. Woodstock’s seniors played for the Donagh Lempiere memorial trophy on Tuesday when Eugene Conroy emerged victorious with 43 points. He won on a countback from Luke Duffy with third place filled by Sean Colleran on 38 points. Anne Kilker with 74 nett won the Heaslips sponsored ladies masters competition at Woodstock. She won by four from Siobhan Maher with third place filled by Kathleen McEnery with 80. They were followed by Mary McNamara with 80, Marianne McGough

clocked the third-fastest time of the day, but the enforced one-minutelate start dropped him to 10th — a cruel end to a genuine shot at gold. Shannon, meanwhile, arrived at the National Championships off the back of winning both the Munster Road and Time Trial Championships a fortnight earlier. With Kennedy currently sitting second in the national standings for Ireland’s top category cyclists with only weeks of the season remaining, and Burren CC second in the table of Ireland’s most successful clubs for 2026, it’s been a landmark year for the Clarebased club.

Clonfeigh Jetty rocks the pier for Maher & Coote By Michael Maher IN A THRILLING contest Clonfeigh Jetty delivered an impressive victory for owners John Maher and Noel Coote. The first sprint at Galway Greyhound Stadium last weekend proved a thrilling contest with just one and a half lengths separating the first three home. Badgerfort Jody for Paddy Kennedy showed the early pace to lead the field but was soon overtaken by Clonfeigh Jetty (Dromana Bucko & Tiermana Jetty) for John Maher of Kilmaley and Noel Coote of Ballyea. The even-money favourite took charge around the second bend and stayed on strongly to land the spoils in 19.63. Badgerfort Jody finished a length behind in second with Guideys Merlin a further half-length back in third. Merlin flashed from the traps but ultimately had no answer to the superior early pace shown by the inside duo. In race three, Bayview Wild returned to winning ways for trainer

Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge and owner Eoin Clancy stopping the clock in an impressive 29.27. The talented son of Ballymac Wild and Bayview Flyer was always in contention before striking for the lead up the home straight. The Martin Fahy Memorial runner-up from last year has been enjoying a consistent spell of form and was strongly supported in the market on Friday night returning as an even-money chance. Up The Jimmys showed the way early and took command of the contest but Bayview Wild finished with a flourish to reel her in and score by four lengths. Hanover Grace completed the placings a further two lengths adrift in third. In the A2 graded contest at the same venue recently all six runners came away line abreast but in the run towards the opening bend it was the trap five runner Paradise Honk that was first to break rank and racing towards the turn he led by a length from Breaghmore Tilly who switched to the leaders inner as they negotiated the bend. Turn-

ing down the back Paradise Honk trained in Miltown Malbay by Sean Meade led by half a length from Breaghmore Tilly with Hanover Gorm two lengths adrift of the pair as they passed halfway. Nearing the third bend Paradise Honk opened up a two length advantage on his rivals and kicking again off the home bend The Honk-Army Syndicate of Shannon owned son of McInerney and Paradise Brook eased home three lengths clear of Breaghmore Tilly with Hanover Gorm a half-length adrift in third place in 29.05 . In race six at Limerick on last Saturday night, Your The King clocked the fastest time of the night as the 6/4 favourite, trained by Declan McDonagh of Liscannor for Mick Darcy of Ennis and Noel Gavin of Ballyea ran rampant to record the second victory of his career. The August son of Dromana Bucko and Coronation took a flyer from trap five to post a rapid 1.21 sectional and made no mistake thereafter, seeing off Tyrap Malachi by four and a half lengths in a blistering 28.35.

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Planning

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYARTNEY, LABASHEEDA, CO CLARE. Take notice that Alex Broderick & Clodagh McGrath intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, wastewater treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL I, James Collery, am applying to the above authority for retention permission for the following development on property at Errina, Clonlara, Co Clare V94 677F: Retention Permission for revised site boundary as outlined which deviates from that previously granted permission (Planning Ref 15/195) to rear of property together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority during its public open-

ing 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 I, Jack Keogh, am applying to the above authority for Permission for the following development on property at Roo East, Ardnacrusha, Co Clare: Permission for the change of design of the dwelling previously granted permission (Planning Ref 2360419) to a new single storey dwelling, together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority during its public opening hours and 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. CAHERMURPHY, KILMIHIL, CO CLARE V15TK33 Take notice that Kevin Moroney intends to apply for permission retain the alterations and extension to the existing dwelling & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning au-

thority, 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. DOONSALLAGH WEST, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE, Take notice that Maud Keane intends to apply for permission to build a new dwelling house, install a wastewater treatment system and all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. LEMENAGHBEG, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE, V95 HK26 Take notice that Karl King intends to apply for permission to retain the garage & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in

writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CASTLEHILL, DERRY, ENNISTYMON, CO. CLARE V95DV50 Take notice that Kathleen and Francis Shanahan intend to apply for permission to retain the alterations and extensions to the dwellinghouse, the alterations to the garage & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, QUILTY EAST, QUILTY, CO. CLARE Take notice that B. & S. Gaffney intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to convert their attic space to living accommodation ancillary to current house with associated new rooﬂights and altered gable window 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.

LUOGH NORTH, DOOLIN, CO CLARE Take notice that Johnjo Whelan intends to apply for permission to revise the dwellinghouse, previously granted under reference P24/396 & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, KILRUSH ROAD, CAHERCALLA MORE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that C. & D. O’ Shea intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house, connect to public services and modify the front boundary wall / site entrance along with associated 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 pub-

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lic 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. NEWSPAPER NOTICE CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL We, GP Joule Ireland Limited intend to apply for permission for the development at this site at the Townlands of Clonloghan, Vahertighe, Drumgeely, Tullglass, Tullyvarraga, Knockaun, and Ballymurtagh, Co. Clare. The proposed development will consist of a 10kV double-circuit underground cable connecting the previously consented Clonloghan Solar Farm (Planning Reference 18585, Clare County Council) to existing grid infrastructure at Shannon 38kV substation. The proposed grid connection route is approximately 3.5km in length (1.2km of which is on regional road R472, and 1.7km on the local Drumgeely Road). A Natura Impact Statement (NIS) will be submitted with this application. This development is covered by the provisions of the Renewable Energy Directive III (Directive (EU) 2023/2413) and it is important to note that the planning application may be subject to section 34D of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended. When a notice issues in accordance with section 34D(b), the provisions of article 26A of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 to 2025 shall apply. The planning application and Natura Impact

Statement may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the ofﬁces of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of— a) 5 weeks, or b) 2 weeks, in the case of a planning application for small-scale solar energy equipment development or development that is the installation of a small-scale non-ground source heat pump. 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. For this application the submission period is 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 24, 2026

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Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz

What is the county town of Clare? Kilrush Ennis Shannon

What is the highest point in Co. Clare? Slieve Elva Moylussa Mullaghmore

What is Clare’s nickname in GAA circles? The Banner County The Rebel County The Treaty County

Shannon Airport opened the world’s ﬁrst duty free shop in which year? 1947 1959 1968

Who did Clare beat in the 2024 All-Ireland senior hurling ﬁnal? Kilkenny Limerick Cork How high are the Cliffs of Moher at their highest point? 120m 214m 302m Michael Cusack, founder of the GAA, was born in which Clare village? Carron Coroﬁn Cooraclare

Movies to see this week

In which year was Éamon de Valera ﬁrst elected for East Clare? 1917 1921 1932 In which Clare town is the Willie Clancy Summer School held? Doolin Ennistymon Miltown Malbay What does Inis, the Irish name for Ennis, mean? Island Crossing Meadow

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS Moylussa 1947 1917 Miltown Malbay Island

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Ennis The Banner County Cork 214m Carron

Spot the Difference

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

Previous Answers . Golf ball missing . Name missing from caddie’s bib . Logo missing on blue jumper . Red jacket now purple

. Pass missing from lanyard (man on right) . Rope missing between posts . Flag missing above clubhouse

Luke Donald takes a shot at the Irish Open last weekend at Trumps International Golf Links & Hotel, Doonbeg Photo by Joe Buckley

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