The Clare Echo 25/09/25

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Sep31, 25,2024 2025 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Oct

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North Clare school fights to remain open

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FURGLAN NATIONAL School has begun a lastditch fight to save its future.

Currently seven pupils are enrolled at the North Clare School but it must reach the threshold of eleven students on their books by next week (September 30th) to guarantee that it remains open for the next academic year.

A save our school campaign has been launched

by Furglan National School which has included interviews with The Clare Echo, local media, appearances

on TV bulletins for RTÉ and TG4 plus a segment on Liveline which was presented by Ennis’ John Cooke.

Clouna native Patricia Vaughan has taught in Furglan NS for the past thirty years and has been principal for the last quarter of a century. “It breaks my heart because this isn’t just any ordinary school, this school is very special, it is a very special school and I know the people in the community will be very shocked. They may suspect our numbers are pretty low but I don’t think anybody realises we’re in a position

that our school is in a position where we may not be open in twelve months”.

Strong support has been evident since the school went public with its story this week and Patricia is confident the people of North Clare will help to save Furglan NS. “The community of Ennistymon and Lahinch is a fantastic community, they come behind their community and we saw it this year with the level of support in the area, there is an awful lot of support for us and I’m very confident we will meet our eleven”.

Full story p12-13

 BELIEVE: Furglan NS principal Patricia Vaughan studies their enrolment book as the school continues its fight to stay open by enrolling four more pupils by the end of September Photo by John Sheridan

€3m for old Nash

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS 2040 has purchased the site of the former Ennis National School for just north of €3m.

The 4.2 acre site is zoned as a large mixed-use development including commercial, residential, and retail with car parking.

Since 2013, the site has been vacant following the relocation of Ennis National School to a new state of the art facility in Ashline on the Kilrush Rd. Padraic McElwee, Interim COO of Ennis 2040 DAC, said, “The site opens the door to new possibilities for Ennis, and we look forward to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to shape its future. People will have lots of ideas and it is important that we get this right. This project

aligns fully with the Ennis 2040 vision to transform and enhance the town’s offering”.

Any proposed development of the site will be determined following consultation and engagement with stakeholders.

Further details on the consultation process “will be announced in due course,” a spokesperson for Ennis 2040 DAC stated.

According to Ennis 2040 DAC, the site aligns with the vision of the Ennis 2040 2040 Economic & Spatial Strategy to strengthen Ennis’s role as a key economic driver and place to live. The purchase of this vacant site is also responsive to public concerns addressing dereliction and activation of vacant sites.

Full story p18

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Bend it like Clancy

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Unit 9, The Mall, Clare Road Business Centre, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021 A flexible hurley from Tubber’s Joe Clancy is unable to block the shot of Clarecastle forward Paul O’Connell during the Clare PIHC quarter-final in Páirc na nGael, Ruan

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Council’s outdoor staff begin ballot for industrial action

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ALL of Clare County Council’s outdoor staff that are members of the SIPTU trade union are being balloted for industrial action in a dispute over new vehicle usage and vehicle telematics policies.

SIPTU has confirmed the ballot is taking place as part of a “major escalation in a dispute caused by management’s refusal to engage with the State’s own industrial dispute resolution system”.

Last month, transport workers in the Council began industrial action in the form of a work-to-rule.

This escalation would involve their colleagues in other outdoor divisions engaging in supportive industrial action, which SIPTU said would result in significant disruption to the delivery of services.

According to SIPTU, the new transport measures

have been introduced without proper engagement and has accused the council of refusing to engage with the State’s own industrial dispute resolution system.

“This ballot is the direct result of Clare County Council management consistently refusing to comply with the agreed procedures for resolving disputes, including attending the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC),” said SIPTU Organiser, Arek Muszynski.

He added, “Such behaviour is unprecedented in the public sector and undermines the long-established dispute resolution system that all council employees rely upon”.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, a spokesperson for the local authority said, “Clare County Council continues its call on SIPTU to return to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and refutes the assertion that is has failed to comply with

agreed dispute resolution procedures following the implementation of vehicle usage policies last March”.

An approach suggested by SIPTU was not responsible, the Council said. “The essence of the dispute surrounds the policy which states that Clare County Council vehicles including HGV, road maintenance and articulated trucks, must be parked at council depots overnight and not (be) driven home unless there is a business need.

SIPTU’s position is that it wants to pause the policy before returning to the WRC, but to do so having regard to known risks, is not considered a responsible approach by Clare County Council. The vehicle usage policies were implemented on March 31, 2025, following a process of engagement with staff and unions going back to April 2024 (11 months)”.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Estranged gay couple Bill Murray makes his mark in Co Clare in court fight over

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

RUAN welcomed Hollywood A-lister Bill Murray to the grounds of Páirc na nGael on Saturday.

It was the meeting of Clarecastle and Tubber that drew a crowd to Ruan, they came from the fishing village and from the heart of the Burren but very few of the supporters expected they would be joined by a leading American actor in the crowd.

For the second year running the sides met at the q u a r t e rfinal stage.

Last yeaer, Tu b b e r

prevailed 1-15 1-12 when they faced off in Páirc Finne, Corofin but there was no Groundhog Day this time round, instead Clarecastle had Tubber calling for the ghostbusters such was the shivers they sent down their spine with a blistering first quarter where they bagged three goals.

A day before celebrating his seventy fifth birthday, Bill soaked up the action as Ger ‘Sparrow’ O’Loughlin’s side sealed their place in the semifinals of the Clare premier intermediate hurling championship.

He was joined by Clare GAA Chairman, Kieran Keating for the game and afterwards he interviewed Clarecastle’s Rory O’Connell where they spoke about postmatch recovery swims and coffee.

Bill was joined by a production team for a documentary he is filming for the BBC alongside comedian C h r i s O’Dowd, h i m s e l f a former Roscommon

minor and U21 goalkeeper.

O’Dowd did not make it to Ruan and scheduling conflicts meant the PIHC quarter-final was the game of choice, as opposed to the Clare SHC semi-final between Éire Óg and Kilmaley.

They have visited Cork and Kerry on their travels while Bill also stayed dropped into Daly’s House B&B in Doolin before taking off on with Doolin Ferry to visit the Aran Islands.

Members of the production team were tight-lipped when approached by The Clare Echo in Ruan but they are optimistic that the documentary will air by next year.

Murray has received numerous accolades, including a BAFTA Award, two Emmy Awards, a Golden Globe Award, and two Independent Spirit Awards.

He was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his performance in Sofia Coppola’s romance Lost in Translation (2003).

He and fellow actor Martin Sheen were inducted into the Irish-American Hall of Fame in 2017.

Bill Murray Photo by Gerard O’Neill

access to two children

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ESTRANGED gay couple are engaged in a court battle over access to two young children fathered by one of the men.

At the Family Law Court sitting in Ennis, the man, who has no biological link to the two children, has made an application for ten access visits to see the two young children each year.

The man is named on the baptismal certs as a parent to the two but not on their birth certs and the two children were born to surrogate mothers overseas during the man’s years long relationship with the father of the two.

The two men were at no stage married and the father of the two children is “vigorously opposing” any access for his ex-partner to his two children.

The applicant told Judge Alec Gabbett that he was making the application “in the best interests” of the two children “and that is why I am here today”.

He told the court, “I was always a Dad to the two”.

He said that while together with his partner, the two and the two young children “were a family unit”.

The applicant said that he had “a very strong bond” with the two children who are both aged under five.

He said, “I did all the tasks of feeding. I changed their nappies. I did night feeds and there is a bond when a baby is looking up at you at 2am in the morning”.

He said that his then partner taught him “how to hold the bottle, wind the baby, how to change the nappy and the cleaning of a baby. It was all new to me and we worked together as a team”.

He said, “I was co-parenting”.

He said that when the second surrogate mother became pregnant his then partner announced to his family “that we were having another baby in the summer”.

The applicant said that he was not applying for guardianship but for ten access visits each year to see the two.

He said that he wanted to be a ‘Godfather’ or ‘uncle’ figure in the children’s lives.

He said that the two children called him ‘Daddy’ and his Christian name combined when he was in a relationship with their father.

The applicant said that he

stood before his partner’s local community on the Church altar at the christening of the babies at their parents.

The man said that he was aware that his naming as a parent on the baptismal certs had no legal standing.

The man said that he took two weeks of parental leave

around me or my children.

They don’t remember him and they have a lot of supportive, consistent, patient people in their lives at the moment and I would like it to stay that way”.

The father said, “He was just my partner. He was going out with someone who had children”.

from his job when the second baby arrived.

The man became emotional a number of times in the witness box when recalling times spent with the two children and a 10-minute montage of home videos of the then couple and the babies together was played to the court. After viewing the montage, Judge Gabbett remarked “They did look happy”.

In response to questions by his counsel, Emily Ryan BL, the applicant said that he travelled out to the overseas location around the time the babies were born to two different surrogate mother to support his then partner.

The applicant stated that he ended the relationship and has had six access visits with the two children since but the last one was in January of this year.

In evidence, the father agreed with his counsel, Elaine Houlihan BL that he was “vigorously opposing” the access application.

The man has a new partner and he told the court in evidence: “I don’t want to bring a stranger into the children’s lives now and that is what he is up to them - a stranger”.

He said that the children have seen the applicant for only ten hours in eighteen months and when they were in a relationship the two children were very young and at the time non-verbal.

He said, “I don’t want him

He said, “I did show the children a picture of him last week to see if they would recognise him and they didn’t”.

Ms Houlihan said that the applicant had painted a picture of being intimately involved in the care of the young children and the father said, “I admit I was struggling, it is the hardest job I have ever done, nothing prepared me for parenthood”.

The father said that other people also helped with the care of the two children. The father said that his ex-partner spent only three nights with the children by himself and didn’t reside with them at the time.

Judge Gabbett said that the questions that have been addressed in the case from a legal perspective is that did the applicant reside with the children, did he have a meaningful relationship with the children and will it disrupt the children’s life if access is granted?

Judge Gabbett said that he could not take into account the views of the two children as they are too small.

Ms Houlihan stated that the applicant did not reside with the father and his children and lived mainly at his own address elsewhere in Ireland when they were in a relationship.

Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to next month.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Clare councillors vote against nominating candidate

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

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CLARE Councilors have voted not to nominate a candidate for the Presidential election.

Six candidates were due to attend Monday’s special meeting of the Council but only five showed up.

Searlait Ní Chianáin, Diarmaid Mulcahy, Sarah-Louise Mulligan, Dr Cora Stack and Gerben Uunk all made their pitch to elected members of Clare County Council but they were unsuccessful in their quest.

Quantity surveyor Keith McGrory was absent from the meeting but had been due to make his case. Prospective candidates must get the backing of four local authorities to appear on the ballot.

It was a meeting which heard about “Turkish teeth”, featured a clash between two Fine Gael councillors and saw one candidate strongly criticised for their support of US President Donald Trump and their views on immigration.

“One of the women should go back to college, the other should be in the Gaiety” remarked one councillor to The Clare Echo. Another councillor said none of the candidates possessed the “skillset required” to be even considered to get the Council’s nomination.

Artist and filmmaker Searlait Ní Chianáin (IND) thanked members of Kerry County Council before quickly correcting herself.

She said her vision for the future is rooted “in the core values of equality, fairness and transparency” and that there are complex mental health concerns with Ireland’s younger population due to the use of Class A drugs. “As an artist, we don’t do things for money, we do things for love and I love Ireland. I hope you love me too,” she told councillors.

Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) praised Searlait for her passion and asked if she had travelled abroad. She revealed that she travelled to Turkey for “my Turkish teeth” and said this was an indictment of the health service in Ireland. “If you’re not willing to stand up for anything, you will fall for anything,” Searlait stated. Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) said he was struck with Searlait’s positivity. “You are very caring, we do have

issues and problems. From a personal point of view it is not easy to put your name forward so well done”.

Kerry native Diarmaid Mulcahy (IND) who is based in Galway was critical of how some local authorities have handled the nomination process but praised Clare Co Council. He asked councillors to vote with their conscience.

Mulcahy said he has been involved in the development of Knock Airport but notes the county which he is in and Shannon’s importance and opted not to delve further on that point.

He was also involved in the Western Development Commission.

Sarah-Louise Mulligan (IND) put a strong emphasis on immigration in her address. She said Ireland is a critical juncture with people unsafe on the streets and open borders and claimed the death of primary school teacher Ashling Murphy highlighted failings in Ireland’s immigration policy.

Enoch Burke was referenced by Sarah-Louise, “he was imprisoned for speaking his mind, his beliefs were compromised and his €50,000 in savings were removed”.

Views expressed by Mulligan on immigration were rejected by Cllr O’Callaghan. “I would have a little bit of difficulty is making reference to the new people coming into this country, the majority of which are very welcome, a lot of our businesses have traded very well because of them. Only for them, we wouldn’t have services in our hospitals. We have to welcome all, as we were in the bad times we had to emigrate to America”. He said vetting must improve “to ensure the correct people are in our country”.

Mulligan said she is among Trump’s biggest fans and called for Enoch Burke to get his savings back and also said she is a big fan of Elon Musk.

Cllr James Ryan (SF) said it is a bit hypocritical to want free speech and be Donald Trump’s biggest fan. He questioned her understanding of politics.

“I find it very offensive,” he said while telling Mulli-

gan he is married to an immigrant.

No questions could be put to Dr Cora Stack (IND) as she used all her speaking time of 15 minutes to give her own address. She told the meeting she had been locked out of her computers this morning and had to make 100 edits to her speech.

Coercion and gaslighting are among the areas, Cora said she wants to tackle while protecting the Constitution. She commented, “I hope Clare is a fairer county that Kerry when it comes to politics, allegedly”. She said she won’t “sell my soul to Sinn Fein”. Bullying of women in the Defence Forces will not be tolerated said Dr Stack.

“A lot of people would say we’re becoming America number two, we’re going that way unless we change that direction,” she stated.

Based in Miltown Malbay, Cora referenced the area in several occasions during her speech, including as an example of where services are disappearing, “a country where rural Ireland declines is a country diminished”.

She added, “an obsession with consumerism and greed is ruining Ireland”.

Outlining his dream to become “Ireland’s first immigrant President,” Gerben Uunk (AWP) said “animal cruelty is at an all-time high”.

He argued that funds given to the horse racing industry would be better served given to mental health services. He said the President can play a role in “re-assessing Shannon Airport” and called for the end of military using Shannon.

“What is your issue with horse racing, I’ve been to plenty of horse meetings and have never seen a horse abused,” stated Cllr Pat Burke (FG). “Go down to Listowel and see the boost to the economy,” he added. The Olympics could come to Ireland if the resources given to the greyhounds and horse racing industries was given to athletics, replied Gerben.

After a ten minute adjournment, the meeting resumed where Cllr Murphy asked if there was any nominations from the floor. Cllr Pat Daly (FF) had incorrectly pressed his microphone leading to a moment of suspense before he clarified this was done inadvertently.

For a more detailed version of this report, please visit www.clareecho.ie.

Picutred is Dr Cora Stack (IND)

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25 2025

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Wynne paid out €5k of €18k from Oireachtas termination payment to residual debt from WRC case

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

FORMER Clare TD, Violet Anne Wynne (IND) has told a court she has been paying off a residual debt of €6,500 to an ex-employee “with whatever little income that I had to hand”.

At Ennis District Court on Friday, mother of six, Ms Wynne told Judge Alec Gabbett, “It is not a case I was making payments whenever I felt like it. I was doing so with whatever little income that I had to hand”.

Ms Wynne told Judge Gabbett that now that she is in receipt of a weekly payment herself where she can now pay the €50 per week owed to Fiona Smyth.

Asked what weekly payment she now receives, Ms Wynne said that it is €565 per week.

In court in July, Judge Gabbett directed that Ms Wynne pay €50 per week to Ms Smyth in order to pay off a residual €6,500 debt to her former constituency office worker from a €11,500 Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) award made against Ms Wynne.

In court on Friday, solicitor for Ms Smyth, Daragh Hassett said that since July Ms Wynne has paid out €300 up to September 11th but not all the payments were in line with the court order of €50 each week.

Mr Hassett said there were two payments made two weeks apart which was not in line with the instalment order made by Judge Gabbett on July 11th.

Mr Hassett said that Ms Wynne must make the payments “not when it suits her and not fortnightly”.

Mr Hassett said that Ms Smyth “is relatively happy with the amount” paid to date by Ms Wynne.

He said, “She has been put through various legal processes by Ms Wynne and she wants this matter to be put to an end and she is happy with the matter to go back to January to monitor payments”.

Mr Hassett said that he had concerns about the statement of means previously provided to the court by Ms Wynne.

Mr Hassett said that the Oireachtas has confirmed to him that the termination payment

that would have been available to Ms Wynne on losing her seat would have been €18,946.50.

Mr Hassett said that he didn’t recall that figure featuring in Ms Wynne’s statement of means “and I have c on c e r n s

about that”.

He said, “The €18,946 payment was received long before Ms Wynne took the stand in July and gave evidence to the court”.

J u d g e Gabbett said, “What are

you are saying is that Ms Wynne has not been as forthcoming as she should be.”

In reply, Mr Hassett said, “Surely as a member of the Dáil previously she should have been able to provide that figure and despite numerous attempts by me to get it out of her and we got that figure from the Oireachtas”.

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

Asked by Judge Gabbett did she disclose the €18,846 payment previously, Ms Wynne said: “I gave it to the court office during the week”.

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

Ms Wynne said that a further payment of

€50 was made yesterday.

Judge Gabbett told Ms Wynne, “I assessed a weekly payment of €50 and this has to happen on a weekly basis.

I will adjourn it to January 9th for monitoring but I expect the €50 to be paid weekly”.

In response, Ms Wynne said, “I understand”.

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

Wynne who received a TD’s annual salary of €113,679 lost her seat in the November General Election in Clare receiving only 310 first preference votes where she stood as an independent candidate in a vote collapse from her 2020 General Election vote when she topped the poll as a Sinn Féin candidate.

Mr Hassett said that it is his hope that the matter can be struck out in January.

Violet Anne Wynne pictured at the Clare Echo’s Electoral Chair Debate last November Photo by John Mangan

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Cuddly companion lands in Shannon Airport to raise funds for local charities

by Páraic McMahon

paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Airport has welcomed the arrival of a limited edition cuddly companion to help raise funds for Clare Crusaders and Little Blue Heroes.

Shannon Bear has landed at Shannon Airport to help this year’s charity partners of the Shannon Airport Group.

Every Shannon Bear sold will raise vital funds for the Clare Crusaders and Little Blue Heroes. Both organisations work tirelessly to support children with additional needs and families of children undergoing long-term medical care.

Chair of the Shannon Airport Group charity committee, Vanessa McTigue said people that buy a Shannon Bear are not just picking up a cute souvenir but will also help to make a real difference in the lives of local children and their families. “We’re thrilled to welcome Shannon Bear to the airport today. He’s our first ever bespoke teddy, and what makes him truly special is that all proceeds from his sales will go directly to Clare Crusaders and Little Blue Heroes. These

charities are doing extraordinary work in our communities, and we’re proud to stand beside them”.

She continued, “Thanks to the creativity and dedication of our Duty Free team, Shannon Bear comes with his own little bag and Shannon Airport-themed scarf – ready for adventure and ready to spread joy”.

Visitors to Shannon Airport can pick up the Shannon Bear at Shannon Duty Free and landside at W.H. Smith in the Arrivals area.

Located in Barefield, the Clare Crusaders Clinic pro-

vides free therapy to children with special needs.

The clinic has been in operation for twenty years and it is estimated that it costs €400,000 per annum to run the clinic.

Little Blue Heroes provides practical and financial support to families of children who have serious illnesses in Ireland while granting the wish of the children it supports to become Honorary Gardaí to empower the child and foster positive engagement with An Garda Síochána.

Pictured L-R Nicole Norton, Ennis, Aoibhin O’Connor (8), Ennis and Lucas Poland-Corbett (8) from Ardnacrusha Co Clare

Photo by Arthur Ellis

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Motorhome camping facilities for Clare?

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DEFICITS of motorhome camping facilities in Clare can be tackled to extend the tourism season in the county, county councillors have said.

Proposals were put before the September meeting of Clare County Council on the subject by both Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) and Cllr Joe Killeen (FF).

The meeting heard that the Council was “actively reviewing” sites in its ownership which may be suitable for motorhome parking.

Strategic development of such facilities “is urgently required ensuring much needed economic growth in alternative tourism is created for our many businesses countywide,” Cllr O’Callaghan said.

In his motion, Cllr Killeen asked the Council “to revisit the overall plan for motor home parking facilities in the county with a view to incentivising the provision of privately-owned parking bays”.

He added, “In the absence of private investment, I ask that the Local Authority explore the possibility of providing facilities at various location around the county”.

Director of Tourism Development, Siobhán McNulty

acknowledged the “growing demand for suitable motorhome parking facilities” and that “limited availability” was placing “pressure on existing infrastructure”.

She said the Council was open to exploring measures to develop motorhome parking solutions and committed to identifying suitable locations. “The Council is actively reviewing sites in its ownership that may be suitable for motorhome parking. At present, there are no formal incentive schemes in place to support private development of motorhome parking facilities.

She stated, “Following the completion of the Campervan Review Report and the Fáilte Ireland-led Accommodation Audit for Clare, a series of webinars were held to incentivise potential private developers to expand alternative accommodation provision across the county.”

Cllr O’Callaghan referenced the success of Nagles in Doolin, Strand Camping in Doonbeg, Lakeside Holiday Park in Mountshannon and Corofin Camping Park but that “critical gaps” remain.

“Motorhome tourists typically travel out of season, it is crucial we look at short-term actions,” he said.

On the economics, he estimated that it could generate €1.75m per year for local villages “which is a game-changer”.

Cllr Killeen cited an ongoing partnership in Portumna between Galway County Council and Waterways Ireland which has 20 parking bays, “it is heavily used and covers the cost of what we need. I have raised before parking in Ballyvaughan on the fishing prom. If we cannot incentivise private industry then the local authority needs to get involved”.

Developing this section of the tourism industry “has come up every year,” Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) observed, adding that camping is “a growing market, the lack of hotel rooms for several reasons is subsidised by this”. B y-laws will need to be enforced, he cautioned, “it has opened a floodgate,” he commented as he referenced how “the whole town of Kilkee was blocked up, we need to look at the by-laws”.

Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) said, “We’ve a glorious coastline but nowhere for people to stop and take it in. This should become one of the top two things for the tourism department to have done in the next few months”.

Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy and the Feakle Festival demonstrated clearly the volume of people using campervans, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) flagged.

GAA grounds and sporting facilities have parking that could be utilised for motorhomes, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) suggested. “They are closed off for matches but they are left idle most of the time and they do have the services”.

Absence of facilities is leading to a rise in “wild camping,” Cllr Pat Burke (FG) hig hlig hted.

“Dromaan Harb ou r has become a p l a c e o f anti-social b ehav iour at weekends p a r-

ticularly Bank Holiday weekends, people come and throw their jet skis be-

hind, they are different people who we are looking for the sites for, we even had wild camping on Holy Island, you obviously couldn’t drive a campervan there but it is the same type of people”.

The meetins also heard how campervans had caused congestion in areas including Carrigaholt and Lisdoonvarna in recent times.

While attending the Dingle Races in August, Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) was able to count “at least 150 campervans in the heart of Dingle by the harbour. Some are worth €2,000, others were worth €10,000 but they were all parked there, I don’t know who was collecting the mon-

ey but it was a lovely site”.

He continued, “What I saw in Spanish Point during

Willie Clancy week was a pure disgrace, they were parked here and there, it is only going to escalate with the price of hotels and Air BnBs”.

A report was completed in December 2023 for the Council by Repucon Consulting, McNulty told the meeting.

She commended Lisdoonvarna Fáilte for taking the lead in delivering camper van facilities and suggested, “it could be the best example of campervan parking in Ireland”.

She said an accommodation audit has “identified deficits, this is a real opportunity for Clare County Council which we are embracing”.

Chief Executive of the Council, Gordon Daly acknowledged it was “a great opportunity”. He stated that this would become “a priority during this Council term” and added, “It is important, there are good examples in private ownership, community led or public sector led, there is an under-provision across the country which is why a national group has been set up so we’re not an outlier in Clare”.

Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF)

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

11

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Contributors

Create a natural woodland look with snowdrops and bluebells SEPTEMBER has nearly come to an end and I have to say, I am enjoying the change in the colours as the temperature slowly drops.

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Bulbs are available to plant, and the dwarf tete is nice for planters or containers. When planting bulbs in beds or borders, an effective approach is to group plants in odd numbers, like 3, 5, 7, etc. This can give a lovely show in Spring time.

If it’s a woodland area that you

more natural look.

Layering in a pot is a gorgeous idea and can give you colour for months, depending on which variety of bulbs you choose in, as the name suggest, layers.

At the moment we have a lovely range for planting pots and containers, from heather to cyclamen and primroses for colour. For longterm pots or container gardens, we

lBLOSSOMS ON THE GO: 50% of perennials and 20% off trees

are planting, snowdrops and blue bells are lovely. Some let the seeds

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have some lovely grasses to choose from and cordyline. Add in some variegated ivy or red berry gaultherias to create an evergreen pot. You may also add in a pack of bedding viola or pansy for some colour.

It’s that time of the year when we need to start feeding the birds and leaving out some water baths. We have a nice selection in stock, from wild flower seeds to peanuts and a wide range of feeders.

If you are in need of pots being filled, we are happy to help. Bring in your empty pot and we will magic it up with colour or as you require it.

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Want some bargains? Then pop on over this weekend to Blossoms On The Go. We are offering 50% off a huge range of perennials and shrubs and 20% off trees, offer on until Sunday, 28th September.

Have a fabulous week and enjoy the Autumn sunshine!

12

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Furglan NS principal hopeful North Clare will rally around school in hour of need

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NORTH CLARE’s ability to rally around its people in time of need is expected to come to the fore once again as Furglan NS launches a last-ditch fight to keep its doors open.

Furglan NS needs to have eleven pupils enrolled by September 30 in order to guarantee it remains open in twelve months. There are currently seven students at the two-teacher school.

While eleven is the present threshold that the school must meet, this figure could be altered by the Department of Education but staff, parents and the Board of Management of Furglan NS won’t become aware of such an alteration until February.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Furglan NS principal, Patricia Vaughan explained, “As of now, we have to really concentrate to getting to September 30th, that is number one for us, we sat down as a board and said we would take this one stage at a time. As of now, hitting September 30th is most important to us, if we don’t have 11 children then we’re going to go into a position where we have to wait until next February to find out how many children we did need so we’d have four months of waiting because that retention figure of 11 could possibly come to 10, 9 or possibly 8, we don’t know, we’re really going into unfamiliar territory, we have to wait until February”.

Should Furglan NS reach a scenario where it does not have eleven pupils and the thresh-

old remains at this number by February, they will have to consult with the school’s patron, Bishop Michael Duignan. Furglan NS is the most southerly school in the Galway Diocese. “Bishop Duignan is our Patron and he will have to meet our Board of Management, if there are parents here who would want to keep the school open which I really feel there will be, our school hopefully won’t be closing because I’m very hopeful for this campaign”.

Moving into the spotlight to share the story of Furglan NS’ struggle to stay open has not been easy for Patricia or the Board of Management but she is hopeful it will prompt the public into action. “We didn’t go into this lightly and I’m very confident there are children out there, there are people out there that have children who might have said we’ll wait till next year to send them but when they here our story they may have went to a local school themselves and realise the benefits of it, nobody wants to see a small school close and nobody wants this for us”.

From Clouna in the parish of Ennistymon, Patricia has lived in North Clare all her life.

She is confident that goodwill will come to the fore and save their school. “I’m really confident this will happen for us, I know our time is limited, we’ve only a week, it is not an awful lot of time but I think the campaign will be so strong [...] We’ve done the hardest thing which is admitting we need help”.

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identity by keeping the school open, Patricia maintained. “Losing our Church was very difficult for the community and for us because it is right next door, it was very difficult for us but at that stage our numbers were pretty good and up in the forties, losing the school wasn’t an issue then but now that we’re down to the wire we realise that this school is used as a polling booth, our past parents come here when we have clothes collections, fun walks, cake sales, coffee mornings, we have so many opportunities for the community to come into the school”.

A teacher for thirty years, Patricia has been principal of Furglan NS for twenty five years.

“It is quite a long time, during that time I have built up great relationships with the community. We are very supportive of everything going on in the community, all the different organisations like the Community Games, the North-West Clare Agricultural Show, Credit Union, Comhaltas, the GAA to mention a few. We work very closely with Ennistymon Community School in transferring our pupils, we’re very much part of the community and an important part, we may be small but we’ve always been significantly involved in our community, our community gives to us but we give back as well, that is very important to me.

“Being principal for 25 years has given me that insight into the needs of the area, my three children came to school here, I chose to send them here even though it is not exactly my catchment area, my husband came to school here and his family came to school here, I feel very passionate and strong about it, I bring that energy and positivity to it”.

Support for the school stems from the esteem in which the staff are held locally including Patricia, Deputy Principal Monica Dilleen, special education teacher Thomas McConigley and special needs assistant Karen Irwin.

Services provided at the school are plentiful and it has been chosen as the location for the upcoming short film, ‘The Parting’ which will be screened at the Dublin International Film Festival. “We’re a DEIS school, we’re DEIS rural and got the status three years ago, children in a DEIS school get a lot more supports, we get grants, we’ve a beautiful kitchen installed, we’ve a lot of different things going on since we became a DEIS school. We’ve a homework club, we’ve say yes to languages where a French teacher comes in and does French with us, we have play therapy which I’m a big believer in, we have a fundraiser every year to raise money so children can be given play therapy, we pay for twelve sessions of play therapy which is €600 per child, in the past three years six children have gone through it and that has been 100 percent funded by the Board of Management from money raised within the community.

“We’re very lucky to be so close to the sea, we’re four miles from Lahinch, from September to Christmas because our numbers are small, we bring them right the way through every week they have swimming, we feel very passionate about that because we are so close to Lahinch and the ocean it is important that our children get to swim. They have a bit of extra time with swimming. In a week’s time, we’ll have a film crew taking over our school for three days, a huge opportunity for us, all

the children here will be extras on the film, casting has gone out and one of our parents Jacinta Sheeran will be the teacher in the film, it is a short-film and it will be released at the Dublin International Film Festival next February [...] the crew searched all over Ireland and chose Furglan as a place, they didn’t just choose that, they looked for a long time and they saw something in us, they saw when they arrived at the door how our school is well kept, our beautiful flower boxes and they could feel positive energy coming from the school, they arrived and spent a day with us, they came back to say they wanted to do the film with us and it is a fantastic opportunity which has given us such hope”.

A big influence in Patricia’s career was the late Carmel Kenny, her teacher in Clouna NS, the Lahinch woman died in September 2024.

“I went to school in Clouna NS and had a very happy childhood and experience in primary school. My teacher, Mrs Kenny for the first four years of primary school, when this job came up I was a little bit reluctant about going for it, I was a very young teacher and wanted somewhere bigger and away from home but she encouraged me to go for this job, Mrs Kenny passed away about a year ago, I always say to myself that I am so grateful to her, she really did push me to apply for this job and encourage me”.

Parents interested in enrolling their children in Furglan National School can contact the school on 065 7071979 or call into the school to speak directly to Patricia.

FURGLAN NS: Principal Patricia Vaughan at the entranc

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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News

Furglan NS in last ditch fight to save school’s future

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FURGLAN NATIONAL SCHOOL is at risk of closure unless it can enrol four extra pupils by the end of September.

Currently seven pupils are enrolled at the North Clare school which has two fulltime teachers, a full-time special needs assistant and a special education teacher who is based in Furglan but also provides five hours in Inagh NS and five hours in Lahinch NS.

By September 30, their enrolment numbers have to reach eleven to guarantee the school remains open for the next academic year.

“We want to save our school and we want another four children on our roll books

by September 30th,” principal of Furglan NS, Patricia Vaughan explained.

Last year, eight schools closed across the country, none of these were in Co Clare. All associated with Furglan NS are confident and hopeful they will not join the list of schools to have closed their doors.

Areas within the catchment of Furglan include Lahinch, Ennistymon, Inagh, Ballyvraneen, Lavarreen, Moananagh and Moughna Cross. Patricia appealed to families in the catchment to strongly consider enrolling their children in Furglan to preserve the school’s future.

She told The Clare Echo, “It breaks my heart because this isn’t just any ordinary school, this school is very special, it is a very special school and I know the people in the community will be very shocked. They may suspect our numbers are pretty low

but I don’t think anybody realises we’re in a position that our school is in a position where we may not be open in twelve months”.

Last Wednesday, an emergency Board of Management meeting was held and lasted over two hours where it was agreed that they must go public with their story to fight for the future of Furglan NS. “It has been a very difficult decision for us, all along we had been hoping against hope, we had done everything we can, we’ve a very

vibrant Facebook page, we got Dunphy Communications to launch a new Facebook page for us, it brought in a lot of viewers and interest but unfortunately didn’t bring in numbers for us, we came back in September and realised things weren’t looking so good”.

“This beautiful vibrant school which is full of energy, love, kindness, fabulous staff, beautiful children, supportive parents who are there for us morning, noon and night, fantastic support-

lFive of the seven students enrolled in Furglan NS with SNA Karen Irwin, principal Patricia Vaughan and deputy principal Monica Dilleen. Photograph: John Sheridan.

ce to Furglan NS. Photograph: John Sheridan

ive Board of Management, a fabulous community which comes behind us in times of trouble [...] We have a lot at stake, this community is important, Furglan is a very important school, this community is exceptionally important, we lost our church here maybe 18 or 19 years ago, we’re going to do our utmost that we will not lose our school too,” she added.

At its peak, Furglan NS have in the region of seventy students. The new school opened in 1964 with the old school built in 1878. Patricia who has been principal for the past twenty five years recalled, “there would have been three classrooms and three classroom-teachers with somewhere in the region of seventy students, at the time we were coming from a much bigger area over to Moughna Cross to the Ennis Rd, we had children coming from there on the road to Inagh, the catchment was bigger and we haven’t had children coming from there in quite a while, there was bigger families then with seven, eight, nine, ten or even eleven children, there was a family once with thirteen children and if we had a family of thirteen they were keeping the school open”.

Numbers have gradually decreased in the school which had 48 children enrolled in 2013. For their ‘COVID confirmation’, ten students were in sixth class

alone in 2020. “It is rural depopulation and the families aren’t there, the building isn’t going on in Furglan, there’s no new build around and it is very hard to get planning here, a lot of our families have passed through, they were quite big families with children and they have gone from us, we’re now in a situation where we’re down to these numbers like many schools in Ireland, in North Clare and West Clare we don’t have to go outside the county to find them”.

Alongside Patricia in the staff is Deputy Principal, Monica Dilleen, SET teacher, Thomas McConigley and SNA Karen Irwin. With such a strong teacher to pupil ratio, the students of Furglan NS are getting what could be described as private tuition for their first-level education.

“The quality of education here is absolutely second to none and the wellbeing, the children are looked after so much, their care issues and kindness, looking after them when they fall, picking them up and caring for them, it is like a family here. My staff here treat the children as if they are family members. Because our numbers are so low, we are able to do individualised plans for each child, the children that are very good we can move them on a grade in their textbooks, the children that are finding it difficult we can send them out for our special

13

education needs teacher, Thomas McConigley who were so lucky to have appointed here twelve months ago, we’re sharing him with two other schools but the majority of the hours are here with five hours going to Lahinch NS and five hours going to Inagh NS but Thomas is based here so children get an opportunity if they are experiencing difficulty that they have a special education teacher to go to. We also have a full-time SNA, we’re very lucky to have Karen with us, she is absolutely wonderful, she is very good with the children, she is very kind and caring, taking them out for movement breaks, helping children if they have emotional or behavioural issues which happens from time to time, taking them out and giving them one to one time, all of that is provided for here”.

Her passion for the school is infectious and she speaks with pride of the exploits of past pupils who have gone on to represent Ennistymon’s senior footballers including Liam Cotter, the McNamara brothers David and Brian alongside her own son Joshua.

Parents interested in enrolling their children in Furglan National School can contact the school on 065 7071979 or call into the school to speak directly to Patricia.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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News

14

“Ours is a story still in the making” celebrating 50 years of Citizens Information IN 2025, WE proudly celebrate 50 years of the Citizens Information Network, a service that has consistently empowered the people of Ireland with access to clear, impartial, and vital information, advice, and advocacy.

We were honoured to receive a letter from Uachtarán na hÉireann Michael D. Higgins acknowledging the work of Citizens Information.

“Since its establishment 50 years ago, when on 8 July 1975 the first 25 Citizens Information Centres were registered at a ceremony in the Burlington Hotel, your organisation has been a vital resource for generations of people seeking clarity, assistance, and support, offering guidance and vital information to people from all walks of life, often at times when they needed it most.

Through your work, you have enabled countless individuals and families to navigate the often complex systems of public services, social welfare, employment rights, housing, and healthcare, at all times doing so with empathy, professionalism, and

l 50 YEARS: Staff at Ennis CIC – Anne O’Connor, Kathy Costello, Susan Eyles, Caroline McAuley, Tom Dooley, Helen Collins, Emer O’Connell and Caroline Rowley celebrating 50 years of Citizens Information

an enduring sense of public service. It is such mportant work. Molaim sibh. The right to reliable information is a fundamental element of any society committed to

the principles of equality, respect, inclusion and human dignity. Indeed, the right to accurate, accessible information is inseparable from the right to participate fully in

society.

The work of Citizens Information helps to protect and nourish this cornerstone of ethical citizenship, ensuring that it remains open and

accessible to all, regardless of background or circumstance.

As we face the challenges of our contemporary world, including those of deepening

inequality, the evolving nature of work, and the climate and biodiversity crises, it is more important than ever that we renew our commitment to a citizenship that is active, ethical, and informed.

Institutions such as Citizens Information are essential in this endeavour in reminding us that democracy is not a static achievement, rather a living process, one that must be nurtured by a shared sense of responsibility and solidarity.

As you celebrate this remarkable milestone, may I extend my deep gratitude to all those, past and present, involved in Citizens Information for 50 years of exemplary public service. May I wish you every success in the years ahead”-President Michael D. Higgins.

Citizens Information Services celebrated the 50 years of service across the country during the week of the 15th September, and staff took time to reflect on the work they and their predecessors have done in supporting communities in Ireland.

15

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

Regional News

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Shannon

Wait for flood relief scheme is stifling housing development in Shannon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON’s ongoing wait to have a flood relief scheme in place continues to leave homeowners unable to insure their properties.

In April, Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Kevin Boxer Moran (IND) said the Shannon Flood Relief Scheme would be submitted to An Coimisiún Pleanála “at the end of 2025”.

Three months later, in response to a parliamentary question from Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF), he stated that it was now scheduled to be submitted for planning approval in the second quarter of next year.

In July 2020 OPW in partnership with Clare County Council appointed RPS to further assess the CFRAM Study identified options and prepare a detailed scheme for Shannon which is economically viable and environmentally sustainable. The entire scheme will be implemented in five different stages. The project remains in the first stage which commenced back in August 2020.

Speaking at the September meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) voiced the frustration of elected members who have heard of reviews and briefings on the project

lFLOOD RELIEF: parteen basis river shannon

but are seeing little progress. “It seems to be going on for everywhere, you said there will be this review and that review before another briefing, we’ve been briefed several times but the people of Shannon can’t insure their houses without flood relief in place. The faster we can get flood relief in place the better. There are houses built in Shannon for the last sixty years that have never had insurance for flooding, they have never been flooded but can’t get insurance”.

Shannon based Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) said all elected members have “a huge difficulty with people

not being able to buy a house without flood cover”. He was aware of transactions to acquire properties not taking place because banks are longer giving the cover which prompted him to urge the local authority to tell the banks and insurance companies that they are maintaining seventeen pumps a day in the town to pump water back out to the river. “The risk of Shannon flooding is only during Storm Éowyn or something, we all know we’re on reclaimed land, the pumps were put in for good reason but we need to explain it more to the banks and insurance companies”.

Data on flood records must also be showcased as part of the argument, Cllr Michael Begley (IND) stressed. “I don’t see why the best parts of it can’t be used to get some land zoned for housing in Shannon because of the difficulties for companies coming in here where their staff can’t get a house in Shannon”.

Further growth of the Shannon Free Zone will only happen with more housing, Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF) stressed. “We want the Industrial Estate to grow and we need more housing for that, companies are choosing not to come here because of the housing situation”.

Locally there are “fears it could sterilise the whole housing market in the town,” Cllr David Griffin (FF) commented. “Flooding a major problem, in Sixmilebridge we can’t get insurance either, if you ask for it they will only laugh at you, it is a very big problem,” stated Cllr John Crowe (FG).

Director of Service, Alan Farrell told the meeting, “It is recognised that the flood relief scheme is hugely important for Shannon town and the area. It does move but people consider it to be slowly and that is a fair comment. We’re in a fairly sensitive area from an ecological area. The team within Clare County Council and consultants and working with OPW are as eager, we’re looking at every avenue to try shorten that”.

He continued, “we are looking to try move it on as quickly as we can, the unfortunate piece is it does take time”. He said, “I can give a commitment that we will look to keep driving it, we will endeavour to move it as quick as we can, there’s options in the construction phase that it can be done over a number of seasons, linking in with technical, legal and ecological advisors, it is critical that it gets through consent process with An Bord Pleanála, we have to be thorough with process, we want to make it as water-tight as possible”.

Council urged to work on PR to show continued improvement in Shannon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL needs to examine its PR side of the house to improve the messaging on the work it does in Shannon, a county councillor has said.

Greater efforts need to be expended by the communications wing of Clare County Council to promote the work the local authority are doing within Shannon Town and across the Municipal District, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) maintained.

Speaking at the September meeting of the Shannon MD,

Cllr Mulcahy commented, “We see Facebook conversations that Clare County Council do nothing but the volume of work that the team gets through in this Municipal District is phenomenal.

I think the team don’t get a fair crack of the whip, I don’t think we tell our story well, we need to look at our PR side because everywhere I go there is a crossing going in, there won’t be weeds growing on the footpath and there’s a lot less weeds now, we get a lot of criticism but we don’t get a return on the community pages for the good work,

l IMPROVEMENT: Shannon Town Centre entrance

we need to tell the story better as a Municipal District”.

He continued, “I’m constantly busting Tom’s chops but we do appreciate the work”. According to Cllr Mulcahy, critics of the Council would be unable to work in the difficult weather conditions that their outdoor crew do.

Cllr James Ryan (SF) stated, “Absolutely I’ve no issue with anything regarding the road workers, my only issue is communication with other departments in the County Council, I’ve great contact with all these guys and I have

no issue but there are other departments in the County Counciil where communication needs improvement particularly environment section who sent out letters recently to people who didn’t appreciate them”.

Senior executive engineer in the Shannon MD, Tom Mellett said, “there is a huge amount of work being done, it is like an iceberg, a lot is being done under the surface”.

16

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

North Clare

‘Haphazard’ use of space in Kilfenora

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

KILFENORA is lacking a plan for parking in the village with the current system described as “haphazard”.

In a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) appealed to Clare County Council “to devise a traffic plan for Kilfenora village to address better use of available space for pedestrians, cars, trucks, buses and cyclists”.

According to senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Tony Neville, “A multi-Department approach is required to establish the ideal use of open space within Kilfenora village. This will include our colleagues within Planning (Urban Design) and Road Design. Our colleagues within Rural Development are also in the process of finalising a Town Team for Kilfenora. This team will be critical to any future developments within the village”.

“There doesn’t seem to be any huge plan for parking in the village street,” remarked Cllr Killeen. “It was very busy all summer with the shuttle bus using the Burren Centre,” he flagged. “A cycle parking space is barely visible and a certain amount of street space

too, it needs to be redesigned and accommodate a number of buses”.

He added, “It is haphazard and needs to be looked at, it would be a private/public car space in Kilfenora”. Cllr Killeen asked the top table if a private space was explored by the local authority as a stop for the Burren/Cliffs Explorer.

Director of Tourism Development, Siobhán McNulty stated that a private partnership was explored. “We didn’t come to an agreement in time for the Burren/Cliffs Explorer but that will be part of the review and its potential for 2026”.

Work has been ongoing in Kilfenora “for the last number of years” to try devise plans, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) acknowledged. “Our future President, sorry our Presidential candidate Heather Humphreys was down to open the Burren Exhibition Centre in May 2024”.

Wastewater has been “updated massively” in Kilfenora, Cllr Garrihy highlighted. “It has the infrastructure and capacity to take people to live there, the local community group have set up a campaign to try crowdfund buying Linnane’s Bar which is where the Kilfenora Céilí Band started from”.

Wording used by elected

Scope for 40 extra parking spaces on Lahinch site formerly touted for skate park

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

THIRTY to forty extra car parking spaces can be provided in Lahinch by clearing away waste ground on a site previously touted for a skate park.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) has called on Clare County Council to expand the car park on the Miltown Malbay Rd in Lahinch.

He stated, “By clearing away all the waste ground as far as the open drain

sibility study be carried out to see what was required to construct a pump track at the location to offer an alternative to “drinking cans by the cliff car park”.

Neville told this month’s meeting of the West Clare MD, “Any surveys undertaken at that time can be re-visited. Site topography and environmental challenges will render any construction project difficult at this location. On completion of a draft design we will look at the overall cost/benefit and revert”.

Cllr Slattery pointed out that he tabled a motion looking for the land to be uti-

lKILFENORA: Cllr Joe Killeen (FF)

members with requests is important, Cllr Garrihy said, “I’m stopping calling these things masterplans because when you say that it sends them off into Orbit and nothing seems to happen with them”. He continued, “it is a timely motion because we’ve invested huge amount of taxpayers money into the infrastructure, now let’s follow that with a plan”.

Analysis of the shuttle bus’ pilot season will be important for both its “future development” and that of the village, Cllr Killeen observed. “We do have our finger on the pulse and we know what is happening,” he concluded.

that exists on the southern side and to the cliff boundary wall on the western side. This in my opinion could create another thirty to forty car parking spaces and also clean up the area”.

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Tony Neville outlined that the site “was examined previously as a possible location for a recreation park”.

This followed motions by former councillor, Liam Grant (GP) in January and November 2022. He had requested a fea-

lised for parking a decade ago. “There is a lot of waste land there and there is anti-social behaviour going on at the weekends”. He believed if the waste land was levelled and a drain piped along the southern side of the car park that there would be space for up to forty additional cars.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) commented, “let’s see where the examination goes from Tony’s side”.

East Clare

Inis Cealtra visitor experience ‘can drive visitors to East Clare’

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

INIS CEALTRA’s visitor experience was officially opened at long last by one of the area’s proud sons, Mountshannon native, Junior Minister Timmy Dooley (FF).

Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, Dooley had the distinction of officially opening the attraction which he predicted would bring more visitors to East Clare. Inis Cealtra also known as Holy Island is one of Ireland’s most significant ecclesiastical heritage sites.

Located in the restored Rectory in Mountshannon which the Council acquired in 2021, the visitor centre was part of a €5.3m refurbishment project funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, with matched funding from Clare County Council, followed extensive consultation with elected members, state agencies and the local community.

Within the visitor centre, there are interactive exhibits on the island’s history, community stories, immersive footage of Inis Cealtra, and a scale 3D model. The attraction also features a first-floor café and accommodates a ground floor external seated terrace within the landscaped gardens of the Rectory.

In June 2015, Clare County Council acquired 41 acres on Inis Cealtra, joining the two acres already owned by the Office of Public Works (OPW), bringing the entire

lVISITOR EXPERIENCE OPENED: Left to right: Director of Service for Tourism Development, Siobhan McNulty Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly; Cathaoirleach of Killaloe Municipal District Pat Burke; Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy and Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley TD

island into public ownership. Following this, the Council developed a Visitor Management and Sustainable Tourism Development Plan for the island in July 2017.

Funding of €1,227,000 was awarded in 2018 through the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht’s RRDF Phase 2, with match funding from Clare County Council.

This supported the creation of a detailed design and planning package to include a new boat landing point in partnership with Waterways Ireland, visitor trails and shelter for the island as well as an

interpretation strategy, future proofing and associated car parking facilities. A planning application has been submitted to An Bord Pleanála and a decision is expected in the coming months.

Speaking at Friday’s opening, Junior

Minister Dooley said it was “a real honour” to be asked by Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary (FF) to conduct the opening. Timmy recalled, his late father Joe rented out the lands for housing in years gone by which made it “a project close to my heart”. Joe was buried on Inis Cealtra in July 2022.

Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Pat Burke (FG) was responsible for mooting the idea of utilising the Old Rectory as a visitor centre. He said the opening was “a proud moment for everyone involved especially the local community who have played a key role in bringing the project to life, it shows what can happen when local communities work together”.

Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Gordon Daly commented, “I think you will agree Holy Island is the iconic symbol of East Clare”, he noted it is carried on the name of Inis Cealtra National School and the round towner proudly adorns the crest of Whitegate GAA. “A project like this does not happen in isolation,” he stated as he referenced Mountshannon’s success in the Tidy Towns in the 1980s and the more recent White Tailed Eagle project.

An official blessing was carried out by Fr John Jones and Rev Richard Marsh while Clíodhna Donnellan launched a song titled ‘Inis Cealtra’ which was recorded with the late Cyril O’Donoghue.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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17

West Clare

Kilmihil traffic calming back on the agenda following loss of funding

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

RESIDENTS of Kilmihil must be on the same page when it comes to traffic calming, engineers in Clare County Council have warned after efforts to install measures last year broke down.

Failure to reach agreement during public consultation last year led to plans to install a pedestrian crossing near the People’s Park meeting a speed bump.

A new petition has been signed by in the region of forty local residents seeking the addition of further traffic calming measures in the village.

Bringing the matter before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Dinny Gould (IND) said “serious concerns regarding speeding” have been raised by residents. He asked that measures be reviewed “to curb speed going through the village from Keatings Depot to the Old Mart”.

According to Cllr Gould some residents “are petrified leaving their homes on this stretch due to the speed at which cars pass through the village”.

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Alan Kennelly outlined, “There is a raised pedestrian crossing in place on the R-484, to the east of Keating’s depot”.

It was a bumpy road for the Council when it came to their last attempt to introduce traffic calming measures, he recalled. “Clare County Council had hoped to install another raised pedestrian crossing last year near the People’s Park but, following public consultation, were unable to reach agreement. Were

an alternate location available the West Clare MD would welcome the input of our elected members, prior to advancing a traffic calming scheme to design and public consultation stage again”.

only waiting to have an accident,” he remarked while suggesting the proposal near the People’s Park was “the wrong place”.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) stated, “I agree with

speed bumps”.

A lot of effort was exerted by the local authority to progress the measures last year, Cllr Lynch said.

“We got a third design done from road design, they are extremely un-

Cllr Gould, it is an extreme sense of frustration that a petition has been put together. We had a proposal in there and funding got for a pedestrian crossing on Main Street, we had an agreement to put in two

der-resourced so to get one design done is difficult never mind three”.

He added, “some people who objected looked for speed controls, we had an agreement for someone to put it outside their home but be-

lKILMIHIL PARK: Traffic calming

Speaking at the September meeting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Gould commented, “the residents want something done immediately and they said they are not waiting around any longer”. Locals “are

cause of having to the design three times we lost the funding. It is very difficult to go through three rounds of a design and not secure funding.

We need to do something, maybe the signatories will come together”.

Public lighting and traffic calming are big issues in Kilmihil, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) flagged. “We need to come up with a priority list and look for funding in a phased way, we need to have a consultation among the nine of us, feed into it and do a body of work, we need to have a priority list and see if we can get moving with a number of them”.

Geographics of the road “lead to speeding,” Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) noted. “The spirit of the motion is about slowing down traffic on the approach to Kilmihil”. He said the approach from Cree to the village is “very dangerous”.

Responding to the views of councillors, Kennelly said, “I don’t know was it the wrong place” regarding the suggestion from Cllr Gould. He stated, “I share Cllr Lynch’s frustration, we did a lot of work to try get traffic calming into Kilmihil last year. The funding has been reallocated, the regional road is a very quick and fast road, there is a need for traffic calming, the residents of Kilmihil may have signed a submission but there was no observation in support of the traffic calming last year”.

He concluded, “We’d like to be on sure ground before we start designing traffic calming measures, maybe we didn’t have enough of our homework done, we didn’t anticipate it wouldn’t get through a Section 38 last year”.

Age friendly uber scheme could to tackle social isolation

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN AGE FRIENDLY UBER scheme for Kilrush is to be explored by the local authority with social isolation rising for the elderly in West Clare’s biggest town.

Staff within the Rural and Community Development section of Clare County Councl are currently investigating the potential of establishing an age friendly hackney scheme for Kilrush.

Such a scheme can help to tackle social isolation among the elderly, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) outlined when proposing the idea. He called for the hackney/uber scheme “for elder and persons with disabilities to ensure they can maintain their local social and medical interactions preventing social isolation and further health concerns”.

Speaking at the September meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Lynch explained, “This notice of motion came out of a meeting I had with a woman in

her nineties. She worked all her life, she never took a penny from the State and always paid her taxes, she has stopped driving her car because she didn’t feel safe driving anymore and as a result she is suffering from social isolation because we’ve no taxis in Kilrush”.

He continued, “This is a sign of the focus we’re looking at when we think of older people, if people are getting socially isolated in a place like Kilrush I hate to think what it is like in rural areas”.

Bringing in an uber scheme would help the elderly get to appointments for the dentist, doctor and hair dresser while also keeping up their social contact, the Kilrush representative said.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) reminded his colleagues that in the CLÁR funding announced in September, Co Clare did not get a single community vehicle allocated to the county.

Senior executive officer in the West Clare MD, John O’Malley confirmed the potential of the

scheme was “being investigated” within Rural Development and noted a similar trial was ongoing

in Kildare. He stated, “I have been in touch with my colleagues in rural development”. The county’s

age friendly officer has also been brought on board to assist with the proposal.

18

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Ennis 2040 DAC acquire old Ennis NS site for €3.1m

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS 2040 DAC have acquired the site of the former Ennis National School for €3.1m.

On Tuesday, Ennis 2040 DAC confirmed they had acquired the 4.2 acre site for €3.1m following an independent valuation. The site is zoned a large mixed-use development including commercial, residential, and retail with car parking.

Since 2013, the site has been vacant following the relocation of Ennis National School to a new state of the art facility in Ashline on the Kilrush Rd. Access to the site of the former primary school had been blocked off but the locked gates were forced open on Saturday with two caravans now in situ at the privately owned 4.2 acre site.

Following a case at Ennis District Court on Friday, three caravans were removed from the green area of Clancy Park. Bail was granted to an Ennis father of five at this sitting on the condition that he refrain from putting the caravans on any residential area in Ennis.

Gerry Cahill, Chairperson of Ennis 2040 DAC, said, “This is a stra-

tegic acquisition for Ennis and one that many in the community have called on for development over the years. The site offers significant potential, one where we can make a positive impact, and we are excited about what the development of this site will mean for the future of our town”.

Padraic McElwee, Interim COO of Ennis 2040 DAC, said, “The site opens the door to new possibilities for Ennis, and we look forward to working closely with all relevant stakeholders to shape its future.

People will have lots of ideas and it is important that we get this right.

This project aligns fully with the Ennis 2040 vision to transform and enhance the town’s offering”.

Any proposed development of the site will be determined following consultation and engagement with stakeholders. Further details on the consultation process “will be announced in due course,” a spokesperson for Ennis 2040 DAC stated.

According to Ennis 2040 DAC, the site aligns with the vision of the Ennis 2040 2040 Economic & Spatial Strategy to strengthen Ennis’s role as a key economic driver and place to live. The purchase of

ENNIS 2040: Ennis National School

Award Winners

Transition Year graduates of Ennis Community College and Gaelcholáiste an Chláir were shortlisted for the Young Social Innovators Awards with their project “A Second Chance at Christmas.” In addition, the school was honoured with a YSI School of Excellence Award.

Students from Ennis Community College with their teacher Ms McNamara

this vacant site is also responsive to public concerns addressing dereliction and activation of vacant sites.

In 2016, the Diocese of Killaloe sold the site, it had been put on the market by the St Flannan’s (Killaloe) Diocesen Trust with an advised minimum value of €1.2m. Prior to this sale, Woodhaven Developments Ltd had been in the process of applying for planning permission which they secured from Clare County Council to demolish the old school building with the consent of the Diocese of Killaloe.

Developers claimed a deposit had been paid but contracts were not signed by the Killaloe Diocese.

Planning permission was granted in November 2022 to City Cinemas Ltd for the construction of a car park, subject to eleven conditions, one of which included a contribution fee of €32,680 to be paid to Clare County Council by the applicants.

An illegal encampment pitched up in March of this year at the site, they were later removed. The site has long been identified as a prime strategic development site for future development in the county town.

Olympic Club of San Francisco to induct Irish world record holder athlete ‘Honest John Purcell’ into Hall of Fame BAREFIELD native John Purcell eill be inducted into The Olympic Club of San Francisco Hall of Fame.

John Purcell, originally from Barefield, County Clare, Ireland, was a world-class amateur athlete in the late 19th century.

His world titles achieved in the hop-step-and-jump and long jump earned him international acclaim across Ireland, the UK, Canada, and the United States. After emigrating to California in 1888, Purcell became a prominent member of the Olympic Club, contributing not only as a competitor but also as a coach, referee, and sports organiser.

The Club’s History & Archives Committee, following a comprehensive review of historical records, recommended

HALL OF FAME: John Purcell

Purcell’s induction, which was unanimously approved by the Board of Directors. The invita-

tion, addressed to the Purcell family, recognises Purcell’s enduring legacy and his foundational role in the Club’s athletic history.

“John Purcell’s story is one of resilience, excellence, and integrity,” said Malia Lyle, President of the Olympic Club. “His contributions to amateur sport and the Olympic Club community continue to inspire, and we are proud to honour his legacy.”

The Purcell family will be represented at the ceremony, with an opportunity to address attendees and share memorabilia from John’s remarkable life. The event will include a formal reception and dinner, celebrating a man whose name remains synonymous with honour and achievement.

NOTES Clooney Quin Cardiac Screening Programme November 1 2025

Students from Gaelcholaiste an Chlair with their teacher Ms McNamara

SADS, or Sudden Adult Death Syndrome, is a condition that causes young people to die suddenly from underlying heart conditions. Cardiac screening helps prevent SADS by detecting conditions that can be passed down through families, allowing for early intervention and potentially saving lives. We invite members of the community to take this opportunity to get screened. Bookings close on October 10.

19

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Gort & South Galway

StoryMaps Project Wins eGovernment Award for Galway County Council

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AN INNOVATIVE StoryMaps project, which has digitised the heritage of communities across Co Galway into interactive online experiences, has been named a category winner at the 2025 Ireland eGovernment Awards.

Galway County Council’s project received the Open Data Award, having been shortlisted alongside the National Cancer Registry of Ireland. The local authority’s Heritage and GIS sections, working in conjunction with community groups and academia, have so far created over 40 town and village StoryMaps showcasing the rich heritage of the County’s towns, villages, and townlands.

In addition, historical information relating to 1,000 townlands has been digitised, providing a valuable resource for communities, schools, heritage groups, Tidy Towns committees, academia, and the public.

By integrating mapping technology with text, images, and multimedia content, StoryMaps delivers location-based stories that can be accessed on any internet-enabled device, from desktop computers to tablets and phones.

Cllr David Collins (FG), Cathaoirleach of Galway County, said, “This project showcases and promotes knowledge of, and pride in, the rich heritage of our townlands, villages, towns, and other aspects of our heritage. It presents this heritage to local, national, and international audiences and serves as an extremely valuable resource”.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, added, “This project is a fantastic example of how local history can be preserved and shared using modern technology and innovative research techniques.

The partnership approach to developing StoryMaps shows how collaboration is central to preserving and sharing our local history”.

Liam Hanrahan, Director of Services for Planning and Economic Development, said the project places a strong emphasis on community engagement, presenting local heritage in a way that is easily accessible to the public, the Irish diaspora, and scholars at home and abroad.

Led by Galway County Coun-

lEGOVERNMENT AWARD: Left to right: Brídín Feeney, GIS Officer, Galway County Council, and Giles Newsome (CEO of iConnect101 and judge)

Photo by Noel Hillis

cil’s Heritage Office and GIS Department, the project was developed in collaboration with the Galway County Community Archaeology Project, University of Galway, Atlantic Technology University (ATU) Galway, ICAN (Irish Community Archive Network) Galway, Galway County Heritage Forum, The Heritage Council, and local Tidy Towns, heritage and community groups.

Bridin Feeney, GIS Analyst in Galway County Council’s ICT Department, said the project is about unearthing stories, local lore, and forgotten histories and presenting them in an engaging digital format.

Outlining the background to the project, she added, “Several community groups approached us wanting to develop a digital platform to showcase the heritage and history of their local areas but lacked the capacity or resources to do so. Working with these groups, our GIS team and Heritage Officer developed a framework to create StoryMaps for their heritage trails and townland research. Some communities had the knowledge but not the digital expertise, so we worked with them and trained them on the possibilities of StoryMaps and how they could reach their target audiences”.

Heritage Officer Marie Mannion said the primary goal of StoryMaps is to make heritage accessible to everyone. “We initially expected to train local communities and students on

how to create StoryMaps and make this information available as open-source data. It has turned out to be much more than that,” she explained. “It has given people confidence in their skills and fostered a strong sense of pride in their communities.

The StoryMaps are used by local residents, schools, academics, the diaspora, and many others.

They have a myriad of uses, and we are only now discovering additional applications, including their use in ATU Galway’s Heritage Studies course”.

The Ireland eGovernment Awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and creativity in Ireland’s public sector and are recognised as the benchmark for digital government services.

This year’s awards were presented by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin (FF) TD at O’Reilly Hall, UCD. Giles Newsome, CEO of iConnect101 and a member of this year’s judging panel, said, “This submission proved very much the value of using GIS, open-source mapping data to deliver something very valuable from Galway County Council to the people of Galway and beyond. What has been done here is the creation and curation of very valuable content on interactive maps about places of interest, historic monuments, historic sites right across County Galway. A fantastic smart use of mapping technology.”

The StoryMaps project is available at www.tinyurl.com/ StoryMapGalway.

Farmer fined €9.3k for destruction of fare limestone pavement in The Burren

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A FARMER has been ordered to pay over €9,300 in penalties for the destruction for ten acres of “an extremely rare and unique” limestone pavement habitat in a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) on the periphery of the Burren in Co Clare.

At Ennis District Court on Tuesday, Judge Adrian Harris said that he had to record a conviction against Co Galway farmer, Martin Feeney as ten acres of limestone habitat “has been destroyed as a result of the actions of the accused”.

Mr Feeney of Mincloon, Rahoon, Galway pleaded guilty to two offences connected to the adverse impact on the limestone pavement and Judge Harris imposed fines of €3,000 and costs of €6,307.

Regional Manager with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Helen Carty told the court 4.3 hectares (10.6 acres) of limestone pavement had been impacted by the reclamation works for agriculture carried out by Mr Feeney on dates between March and August 2022.

Ms Carty said that limestone pavement “is an extremely rare and unique habitat” and is listed as a priority habitat in the Habitats Directive as it is at

risk of disappearing.

Ms Carty stated that “any loss of priority habitat is significant”.

Ms Carty stated that the lands were located in the Moyree River system SAC which is one of five SACs in the Burren with the Moyree River SAC on the periphery of the Burren.

Ms Carty said that Mr Feeney engaged in certain works for the reclamation of lands for agriculture and it involved the removal of limestone pavement blocks and then the infilling of material from a nearby drumlin on the lands.

Ms Carty said that the lands were re-seeded for approved agricultural grassland. Ms Carty said that the works involved the infilling of material over limestone pavement habitat and the material was levelled out over the limestone pavement.

Ms Carty told Thomas Wallace O’Donnell BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) for the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in the prosecution that a wall was built of

very large limestone boulders on the lands.

She said that the huge boulders most likely came from the SAC in the vicinity of the works.

In court, Ms Carty said that she went on a helicopter to view the changes to the land and those images were handed into court along with satellite ‘before and after’ images.

Ms Carty said that she went to the farmyard of Mr Feeney in January 2024 where assistance was required from two Gardaí to carry out a site visit as Mr Feeney was extremely uncooperative.

Counsel for Mr Feeney, Evan O’Donnell BL told the court that the State evidence is accepted and that Mr Feeney “is taking responsibility for actions”.

Mr O’Donnell asked that a conviction not be imposed. Mr O’Donnell said that Mr Feeney has been farming the lands since the late 1980s.

He said that Mr Feeney was subject to a prosecution by the NPWS in 2008 which was withdrawn “and he was under the impression that the works he was carrying out were lawful”.

Mr O’Donnell stated that Mr Feeney believed the land reclamation works were not impacting on limestone pavement. He said that there are significant tracts of land in Mr Feeney’s

landholding that are limestone pavement and untouched.

Mr O’Donnell said that very recently, Mr Feeney was struck by a cow and spent time in hospital including a period in intensive care.

Mr O’Donnell said that Mr Feeney is retiring from farming and his daughter is taking over the farming activities.

Mr O’Donnell said that Mr Feeney is eager to have the matter resolved and said that his client was willing to make a contribution to a charity in lieu of a conviction.

On behalf of the State, Mr Wallace O’Donnell said that his client is anxious that a conviction is recorded in the case.

In the case, Mr Feeney pleaded guilty to carrying out certain works on the lands between March 26th 2022 and August 10th 2022 within a SAC without the consent of the Minister.

Mr Feeney also pleaded guilty to bringing on plant machinery within a SAC adversely impacting the integrity of the SAC.

20

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Arts & Culture

Mother and daughter from Co. Clare feature in ‘I Am Number 17’ rare disease awareness book

by Michael Fitzgerald

ly I got back to the sports I loved and now I am playing rugby for Ireland.”

“It is an honour to stand with these 17 Changemakers today, to hear their stories and officially launch this book. This campaign has shone a light on rare disease in Ireland in a way that’s never been done before.”

The launch of the ‘I Am Number 17’ book comes at a timely moment following last month’s publication of the new N tional Rare Disease Strategy 2025-2030, a big step forward in i mp r ov i n g the lives of the esti-

news@clareecho.ie

TWO CLARE women have joined 15 people in telling their stories of living with rare diseases in the newly launched book ‘I Am Number 17’.

Irish Rugby International James Lowe has officially launched the ‘I Am Number 17’ book, which showcases the stories and portraits of 17 people living with a rare disease across Ireland, including Clare mother and daughter, Anne and Ciara Micks, who tell their story of living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

The book explains the impact of the ‘I Am Number 17’ campaign to date, as well as personal stories and experiences of the 17 ‘Changemakers’ - people living with a rare disease or supporting someone who has a rare disease.

It is introduced by a special Foreword from James Lowe and is brought to life through photography by award-winning photographer, Julien Behal.

The campaign was jointly launched by Rare Diseases Ireland (RDI), Rare Ireland, and Takeda Ireland in February 2024 to increase understanding of what it is like to live with a rare disease in Ireland. The aim is to show that rare diseases are not as uncommon as many believe,

lMOTHER AND DAUGHTER: Annie and Ciara Micks [inset image: James Lowe at the book launch on Wednesday September 10 2025

Photo by: Damien Eagers / Julien Behal

in fact 1 in 17 are affected by a rare disease.

The Changemakers are the forefront of the campaign and represent a wide range of age groups, diseases, ethnicities and regions across Ireland with unique stories

and experiences.

Speaking at the launch at the Mansion House in Dublin, James Lowe, the campaign’s ambassador and rugby player for Ireland and Leinster said, “Having been diagnosed with Juvenile Id-

iopathic Arthritis (JIA) when I was 14 years old, I know what it feels like to not understand what’s happening inside your own body and to feel like no one else quite understands. I wanted to share my story to help chil-

dren and families going through that same feeling of isolation and uncertainty.”

“As a sports-mad teenager, not being able to play the games I loved was really tough. It took time, treatment and patience, but slow-

mate d 300,000 people living with rare diseases in Ireland.

In the European Union, an estimated 30 million people are affected by 6,000-8,000 different rare diseases.

Culture Night celebration success in Drungeely Plaza

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

CULTURE Night 2025 transformed Drumgeely Plaza into “a bustling hub of cultural celebration” says Shannon Community Partrnership.

Lats Friday September 19 saw celebratiosna nd events take over the countyr to mark Cutlture Night 2025. The twentieth edition of the national celebration aimed ro celebrate the richness and diversity of Irish culture through free events suitable for all ages.

Shannon was one of many hubs of activity showcasing a line-up of local talent.

The annual event attracted hundreds of residents and visitors who gathered to experience the rich tapestry of talent and creativity that defines our community.

From traditional Irish music to contemporary performances, the evening showcased the diverse cultural landscape of Shannon.

“Culture Night 2025 exceeded all our expectations” said Siobhán

Boyd, Chairperson of Shannon Community Partnership.

“The energy and enthusiasm from both performers and attendees was absolutely infectious. What made this Culture Night particularly special was the genuine community collaboration, from our youngest performers to our most experienced artists, everyone contributed to creating an evening that celebrated not just our cultural heritage, but our shared future as a community” The evening featured an impressive lineup of local talent, headlined by One September, with performances by Godknows, Youth in Music, The Kirby Family ensemble featuring Kieran, Cara, Cialan, Jamie and Sheri Fean, Daniel Flanagan Academy of Dancing, and Gaeilge Le Chéile.

The North Clare Refugee Allstars brought their unique sound to the plaza, while Mná Le Chéile, supported by Mná Le Chéile Women’s Shed drumming, and Piping Heaven Piping Hell added to the diverse musical offerings.

lCULTURE NIGHT: Shannon Aviation Museum

A highlight of the days events was the screening of Christina Bennett’s movie “The Blow Ins” which tells the story of the migration of people to Shannon from the North,

shaping what became lovingly known as Little Belfast.

Community Games Recognition ceremonies acknowledged local sporting achievements, while local

food vendors including Wildfire Gourmet Food Truck, Wildfire Pizza, New Delhi Street Food, Shannon Ices, and Snowflakes Bakery created a festival atmosphere.

Local crafters showcased talents with face painting, stencilling, and badge-making. Mná Le Chéile displayed their impressive knitted map of Shannon, while the UL Archives created a slideshow of Shannon through the years projected in the Shannon Town Centre, and Shannon Aviation Museum opened for special evening tours The ‘Send A Shannon Postcard’ initiative saw children sending postcards to relatives worldwide, sharing Shannon’s cultural celebrations globally.

Shannon Community Partnership extends heartfelt thanks to all performers, vendors, volunteers, attendees, and special appreciation to Jim and Sean Moran and Damien O’Rourke of Cuppa Tea TV for their excellent MC work throughout the evening.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Contributors

21

Clare Wellness: Food & mood or mood food?

AT the Care Wellness Clinic, both food and mood are spoken about all the time.

I use therapies like mindfulness, positive psychology, kinesiology, and reiki, which can often take centre stage. However, there is a powerful and often overlooked ally in emotional wellbeing. In our ever fast paced world mental health is very much at the forefront.

We are all aware of the gut/brain connection. This internal connection known as the gut/brain axis means that what happens in the digestive system can directly affect our mood. Having this knowledge and awareness puts us in a position to access the choice we make daily and also why we make these choices.

Many products we consume are processed, have high sugar content, additives, and colourings to preserve shelf life. Perhaps looking at what we eat and what is in what we eat could prove beneficial for our gut/brain health. This reinforces the idea that a nutrient-rich diet

isn’t just good for the body, it’s essential for the mind.

If we went back in time to see what people ate before processed foods, we would see that it was simple clean foods! The old saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” alludes to the idea of how a nutrient-rich apple can have such an effect on the biology and function of the body. Fruits and vegetables are nature’s masterpiece, bursting with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre.Their vivid colours reflect a rich diversity of nutrients that support overall health, glowing skin, and strong immunity. The benefit of a diet which consists of fruit and vegetables tumbles with benefits such as: l Better mood l Packed with hydration l Anti-inflammatory compounds l Regulates blood sugars l High in vitamins and minerals l Combats oxidative stress As the evenings get shorter and the amount of sunshine and vitamin D we get is reduced, it brings

an awareness that the darkness of Winter is slipping in. This can affect

serotonin levels which in turn can affect our mood.

But oh! To hold sunshine within!

With the obvious supports like daily walking, hydration, having hobbies, and meeting with friends and family can all support in helping us to keep the sunshine within.

The food we eat is vital to the internal function of the body and can bring us to a place of balance which allows joy, peace, ease, contentment, and calmness, all of which can be acquired through the amalgamation of high nutritional foods. So next time you might feel blue, maybe swap out the sad snacks for mood-boosting foods, and you might just find your inner sunshine.

Clients often remark to the benefits of nutrition-based foods and how the body can change. What changes can you make? If you need some guidance, contact Frances for an appointment at the Clinic. Remember: You are what you eat!

Eat well, laugh often, and never underestimate the power of a bowl of good fruit.

22

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Harvest Music and Garden Festival – a festival for gardeners, music lovers & families HARVEST - Music & Garden Festival will hit the stage for the second year this Sunday at Ennis Showgrounds. The community festival celebrates Gardening with the joy of Music at the wind-down of the season as a counterpart to popular Clare Garden Festival taking place every spring.

This year the stage will feature a great range of bands including the popular international band Los Paddies Continental Clare, bluegrass legends The FakeMcCoys, Ennis local band Ennis Underground, Galway’s Tom Portman Duo and the dynamic duo of electric guitar and harp of Quentin Cooper and Floriane Blancke – all playing along-side the indoor stalls and just about far enough away from the great mix of workshops.

“We are bringing back last year’s favourites including our Kids Music Workshop and Preserving/Fermenting the Harvest and we will have some fantastic new workshops including our Drumming Circle and The Autumn Gardener.

Harvest Music Garden Festival is for Everyone Gardeners, Music lovers,

lMUSIC: 5 local and international live bands will join Harvest Music & Garden Festival on Sunday at the Showgrounds

cling and cookery workshop in addition to our popular kids music workshop.

Also, we will be encouraging our visitors to bring their own cup or borrow one from us for a small deposit.

At Harvest time, we don’t

same with the new Harvest Music and Garden Festival.

If we can start festivals off on a greener foot, then all involved can have fun but do so in an environmentally friendly way. I wish the festival the best of success in its

l HARVEST: Mayor Mary Howard, Environmental Awareness Officer Karen Foley and festival manager Carmen Cronin

Food & Craft aficionados and all the family” said festival manager Carmen Cronin. She continued by saying: “This year, will be focussing on Greening our festival by offering kids upcy-

just enjoy the bounty but we want to also clean up after ourselves.”

“When Clare Garden Festival started out over 10 years ago, we were delighted to support and it is the

2 nd year and beyond. ” said Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer and AIE Officer.

The festival will see stallholders from Garden, Food, Crafts and Music in the great

hall at Ennis Showgrounds.

Returning this year will be Colourful Creations, Ban-

ner Books, Burren Flower Fairies, Bramble Cottage, Wawool craft, the Record

Break, Ennis Womens group, Irish Guidedogs for the Blind, Metal & Mallet, etc and the festival will be joined also by new stalls including Corregeen Organic Farm, Littlem Glasshouse, Basketweaver Pete Beaumont, Shane’s Woodcraft, SIAR Photography, and many more. The full list of traders will be available on the festival website.

Harvest – Music & Garden Festival is supported by Ennis Municipal District and Greener Clare and is run in association with Clare Agricultural Show society.

Tickets to the festival will be available at the entrance at Ennis Showgrounds on Sunday, September 28, with adult admission of €6, 2 adults for €10 and supervised children under 16 go free. Parking is as always free-of-charge and Workshops details and prices are on our website.

More details from our Facebook page @harvestmusicgardenfestival and from our website www.claregardenfestival.com

23

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Green Clare

400 volunteers remove 2.3 tonnes of litter during Big Beach Clean NEARLY 11,000 volunteers lightened the Clean again for 2025 and to witness the comload of marine litter during the Big Beach mitment and hard work of Clean Coasts staff Clean weekend with over 520 clean-ups orand volunteers throughout the country. Their ganised by Clean Coasts Groups and indiwork is truly inspiring, with many of them viduals nationwide. out every week, come rain or shine, making a Taking place from the 19th to 21st of Sephuge difference to Irish beaches, and for that tember, over 520 clean-ups engaging almost we want to say a huge thank you.”

11,000 volunteers took place nationwide, Bronagh Moore, An Taisce, Clean Coasts ultimately removing over 60 tonnes of litter Programme Manager said; “We’re delightfrom Irelands coastal and inland waterways. ed once again to see so many volunteers and That’s the equivalent of approximately 9 elecommunity groups across the country take phants! While a few groups had to postpone part in the Big Beach Clean. Recent surveys clean-ups due to poor weather conditions, the show that our beaches are becoming cleaner majority still took place, demonstrating the and that’s in no small part down to the dedstrong commitment of communities across icated volunteers who the country. clean o u r The Big Beach Clean 2025 illustrated the incredible efforts and commitment of volunteers across Ireland in caring for our marine environment. Once again kindly supported by Kia Ireland, who provided clean-ups kits and supplies to the thousands of volunteers throughout the country who registered their cleanup actions.

In CounlVOLUNTEERS: Members from West Coast Surf Club during ty Clare, their Big Beach Clean at Lahinch Beach almost 400 volu nte e rs from over beachternationally by achieving a ‘clean’ rating.

20 groups es, waterOcean Conser- The report credits this removed an ways, towns and vancy. Each year significant improvement estimated villages throughout Big Beach Clean to the dedicated work 2.3 tonnes the year. Together we volunteers are in- of Clean Coasts groups of marine are making a tangible vited to take part and local volunteers. The litter with difference in keeping in this worldwide 2025 survey also identiclean-ups our beaches clean citizen science fied cigarette butts, sweet taking place and in protecting our project. By re- wrappers, and fast-food in various marine life. We thank coding quantities packaging as the most frelocations. each and every one of and categories of quently encountered litter A m o n g lBEACH CLEANUP: Members from Ennistymon Tidy Towns them for their contrilitter found and items across surveyed areas. during their Big Beach Clean them Ennistybution as well as the local filling in Clean Clean Coasts welcomed the mon Tidy councils that support them.

Coasts’ Marine support of Kia Ireland and enTowns who undertook their very first Big Litter Data Cards to share with Ocean Con- joyed meeting with dealerships across We would encourage everyone Beach Clean initiative with a riverway clean servancy this initiative not only helps to keep the country who also got involved in clean to stay involved and keep active in up along the Inagh and Ballymacraven rivers. litter out of our waterways but also helps to ups in their area. Cathal Kealey, Head of Mar- their local Clean Coasts Group and in their And West Coast Surf Club in Lahinch took inform policies and actions surrounding litter keting and PR at Kia Ireland said, “Kia Ire- communities.” to their local beach for a clean-up combined through citizen science data collection. land was delighted to support the Big Beach with a water safety workshop!

Clean Coasts CamReports suggest that approximately 80% of paigns such as #Binmarine litter comes from land-based activities TheButt and #BreakUpand litter dropped in towns and cities ends up WithPlastic were borne @GreenerClare in our seas and oceans. This year, with sup- out of previous years’ port from An Taisce’s National Spring Clean Big Beach Clean data. programme, volunteers from inland counties In 2024, the top three were also strongly encouraged to join the call items recorded during to action, no matter how far they are from the the Big Beach Clean coast. Getting involved in the Big Beach Clean weekend were fishing has been a way for volunteers from non-coast- related waste, cigarette al counties to help prevent litter entering our butts and plastic pieces. waterways, with over half of non-coastal The 2025 Irish Businesscounties having a higher registration rate in es Against Litter (IBAL) Scan this QR code or visit 2025 than in 2024. marine litter report indiClean Coasts’ Big Beach Clean is an annual cated a 50% increase in www.yoursay.clarecoco.ie/invasive-species-clare call to action that runs as part of the Interna- the number of beaches tional Coastal Cleanup (ICC), operated in- and inland waterways

Can you spot Invasive Alien Species?

Learn how to identify, record/report, prevent the introduction and control the spread of Invasive Alien Species in Ireland.

25

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Green Clare

Clean Ireland Recycling ‘Roots of Solidarity’: Eco-Arts head office to Festival & Palestinian Support Event moves new Shannon address

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

CELT are hosting an arts festival this weekend in Loughrea in honour of Palestinian solidarity and sustainable living.

The Family Friendly Sustainable Living Festival & Palestinian Solidarity Event in the Slieve Aughty Centre was developed as part of national Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Week 2025.

The EcoArts Festival is a wonderful new addition to CELT’s Festival of Traditional Crafts ‘Weekend in the Hills, a longstanding highlight in the national calendar of cultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit.

Tickets cost €10 for adults and €5 for children, which will go towards Palestinian Solidarity groups. The price includes a raffle ticket with some fabulous prizes including handmade crafts by our CELT Tutors.

Enjoy a feast of culture and creativity with traditional Irish and Palestinian crafts, music, poetry, storytelling, films,

workshops, nature walks and talks, apple pressing, family entertainment, and more.

Programme highlights include Family Storytelling with Ruth Marshall & Annette Corkery from Scealt Beo, Traditional Crafts and Palestinian Tatreeze Workshops: Poetry by Kerri ní Dochartaigh, Keynote Address: Dr. Peter Doran on “The Rights of Nature are the Rights of Ireland: Invoking a constitutional imaginary for a Second Republic through culture, the arts and literature” followed by a Panel Discussion with Award Winning Filmmaker, Dónal O’Ceilleachair, Poet, Kerri ní Dochartaigh, Bioregioninig CEO, Sarah Prosser, Author Mark Boyle.

Artist Programme of local artists include films by Marina Levitina, Joe Nix and Sheila Flanghan, and Nature Walks & Talks. Day time activities for children over the two days include creative Family Forest crafts activities with Jill Little, Forest School Teacher, arts & craft workshops, facepainting, and storytelling.

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Saturday night’s events include Music and Traditional Dance with local Palestinian Dabke dancers, followed by music from reknown singer Ciara O’Donnell from the Bog Bodies Band, alongside Céilí dancing led by Aoife Lowden.

This event is supported by the Small Festival Scheme under the Department of Culture Communications and Sport and the Irish Environmental Network.

The Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) work towards ambitions such as an end to poverty, access to decent work, local and sustainable production and consumption, protection and restoration of nature, better health and wellbeing, universal access to education, gender equality, climate action, and peaceful societies.

This Palestinian Solidarity event wishes to support the work of local Loughrea for Palestine the Palestinian Union of Agriculture Workers Committees and Permaculture for Palestine Refugees Educational Programme. To donate please visit - https://uawc-pal.org/

CLEAN Ireland Recycling is calling Shannon our new home. After many happy years in Ennis, we are pleased to announce that we have relocated our head office to a new, modern office in Smithtown Industrial Estate in Shannon.

This move gives us the space and resources we need as our company continues to grow and develop.

While our head office has changed, our promise remains to deliver the same reliable, eco-friendly service that your household or business depends upon.

The easiest way to manage your account, request a service, order a skip, or get recycling advice is online at www.cleanireland. ie or, as always, by calling our friendly team on 0818 600 300.

We have been servicing the Midwest for over 35

years, providing a cost efficient, reliable service for our loyal customers and will continue to provide & enhance this service from our new base. We are as always very grateful for the continued support of our customers and look forward to continuing to meet your refuse & recycling needs into the future.

From our new home in Shannon, we’ll keep doing it right: providing a service that’s reliable, sustainable, and rooted in the community. Whether it’s household recycling, ordering a skip, or business waste management, you can count on us to be there when you need us.

Our New Address: Clean Ireland Recycling, Smithstown Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare (V14YW73).

26

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Healthy Clare

County Clare’s Health and Wellbeing Age Expo to take place October 2, 2025 FOLLOWING on from the success of previous year events , Clare Older People’s Council, part of Clare County Council’s Age Friendly County Programme, will again host this year’s Health and Wellbeing Age Expo on Thursday, October 2 at Treacy’s West County Hotel, Ennis from 11am to 4pm.

The Age Expo will showcase over 50 supports and services available in County Clare that are aimed at Older People. The Mid-West Community Healthcare support

nections with service providers and peers, fostering community and support.

The event aims to promote awareness, education, and resources, helping older people in County Clare to maintain their independence and well-being.

Gu e st speakers will discuss a range of

supports, services, and opportunities avail-

ration. We sincerely appreciate the community organisations, volunteers, public agencies, and private sector partners involved in the Age Expo. Initiatives like this offer a valuable platform for engagement, idea-sharing, and building a more connected community.

Reflecting the Healthy Ireland Framework’s goal of “increasing the proportion of people who are healthy at all stages of life,” the Clare Age Expo showcases how older

adults in County Clare can boost their health, vitality, and wellbeing. From expert advice to innovative services, it’s a dynamic celebration of ageing well and living fully.

Mary O’Callaghan, Chairperson of Clare Older People’s Council We’re encouraging not only older individuals to attend the Expo, but also their younger family members—because ageing well is a journey we all share.

“One of the most inspiring aspects of growing older in Ireland today is knowing that the Clare Older People’s

Council is actively shaping a future where the third stage of life can be healthy, fulfilling, and joyful,” a spokesperson said. “With Ireland’s population steadily ageing, it’s more important than ever to care for our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

This year’s Age Expo will shine a spotlight on a wide array of products, services, and supports designed to help older people thrive.”

Health & Wellbeing Expo 2025

Health Health & Wellbeing & Wellbeing Expo Expo 2025 2025

The Clare Older People’s Council and the Clare Age Friendly Programme are hosting a Health & Wellbeing Expo during Positive Ageing Week to showcase the supports and services available for older people living in County Clare.

The ClareThe Older Clare People’s Older People’s Council and Council the Clare and the AgeClare Friendly Age Friendly Programme Programme are hosting areahosting Health a&Health Wellbeing & Wellbeing Expo during Expo during Positive Ageing Positive Week Ageing to Week showcase to showcase the supports the supports and services and services Date: Thursday, 2nd October 2025. availableavailable for olderfor people olderCounty living people in Hotel, living County inEnnis, Clare.

CountyV95 Clare.

Location: Treacy’s West CPCT

Time: 11am to 4pm

Date: Thursday, Date: Thursday, 2nd October 2nd 2025.

October 2025.

Location: Location: Treacy’s Treacy’s West County WestHotel, County Ennis, Hotel,V95 Ennis, CPCT V95 CPCT Time: 11am Time: to 4pm 11am to 4pm

All are welcome

 HEALTH AND WELLBEING AGE EXPO: Samantha McCarthy, Healthy County Coordinator Photo by Eamon Ward

team, the Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons, Mental Health Ireland, Task Community Care, Clarecare, ALONE, Clare Libraries, Local Link and a Grants Information Village are among those displaying at the event.

The Age Expo will provide valuable insights into various services available locally to enhance quality of life, including healthcare, physical health, advanced planning, fraud prevention, and social programs tailored for older adults. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with experts, gaining knowledge on health trends and preventive measures.

The Age Expo will also present networking opportunities which allows for con-

topics, from Safeguarding to Fraud prevention and the taster sessions, which proved popular at last year’s event, include physical health, tech support and singing. All the talks and the activities are free, as is entry to the expo.

The Irish Heart Foundation will also carry out free health checks during the event.

On-site parking is available, and the public bus stops just outside the venue.

Cllr. Paul Murphy, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council said, “I wish to acknowledge the work of the Clare Older People’s Council and its members in coordinating the ‘Health and Wellbeing’ Age Expo for Clare.

This isn’t just an event—it’s a vibrant showcase of the

able to older people across County Clare. The program is packed with practical insights, inspiring activities, and plenty of fun Whether you’re curious, caring, or simply keen to connect, I wholeheartedly encourage you to come along and be part of this uplifting experience!”

Shanelle Waring, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager, said Clare County Council is committed to advancing the vision of an Age Friendly County through ongoing support for the Age Friendly Clare and Healthy Clare Programmes.

Fostering an inclusive, age-friendly society enhances quality of life for all, and achieving this requires strong cross-sector collabo-

For more information please contact agefriendlyclare@clarecoco.ie or telephone (065) 6846240 All are All welcome are welcome

For moreFor information more information please contact please contact agefriendlyclare@clarecoco.ie agefriendlyclare@clarecoco.ie or telephone or telephone (065) 6846240 (065) 6846240

Subsidised Lunch Rates

Subsidised Subsidised Lunch Rates Lunch Rates

• Free Health Checks Guest Health • Free• Health • FreeSpeakers Breakout • Themed Checks Checks Speakers Rooms • Guest Speakers • Guest Themed • Themed• Breakout Demo CookingBreakout Rooms Rooms Cooking Demo • Cooking• Demo

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Healthy Clare

27

Men on the Move Clare 2025 MEN on the Move (MOM) is a physical activity programme funded by the HSE and delivered by Clare Sports Partnership.

It is designed specifically for men aged 30 and over, encouraging them to participate in regular exercise in a fun, welcoming, and community-based setting.

Many men find it challenging to start or resume exercise, often due to busy lifestyles, a lack of confidence, or simply not knowing where to begin. MOM provides a supportive environment where participants can improve their health, fitness, and overall well-being at a pace that suits them. The focus is not on competition but on enjoyment, consistency, and building positive lifestyle habits.

What’s Involved? l2 Weekly sessions with qualified instructors lDesigned for all fitness levels lHas been delivered in locations across Clare - Shannon, Kilrush, Lahinch, Ennis, Ballyvaughan & Whitegate The sessions combine aerobic fitness, strength, flexibility, and mobility in a relaxed and social atmosphere. Importantly, MOM also helps to create connections within the community, as men of different backgrounds and abilities train and laugh together, supporting each other along the way.

lHEALTHY LIFESTYLE: Men on the Move group

The impact of the programme is best shown through the experiences of those who take part. David from Whitegate shared:

“I joined for the exercise, but I stayed for the fun.”

Noel from Lahinch said “This programme should be applauded as it provides men of all ages with the incentive to get back into exercise. We have created great friendships from participating.”

Tomas in Ennis added.

“Excellent programme, very interactive. Begin by moving at your own pace and see the improvement over the few weeks. Feel stronger, and the energy levels increase. Just give it a go! How to Get Involved If you or someone you know would like to join Men on the Move, contact Mary Taylor, Programme Lead, on 087 490 4103 or email mary@ claresports.ie.

Clare cardiology chronic disease management services HEART disease is a leading cause of death and illness in Ireland, with thousands of people affected by conditions such as heart failure, heart attacks and arrhythmias.

Many of these can be prevented or better managed through early detection, lifestyle changes, and ongoing medical support.

To mark Heart Month and World Heart Day on September 29 2025, we are highlighting the supports available through the Clare Cardiology Chronic Disease Management Team, based at the Chronic Disease Hub in Ennis Primary Care Centre.

The CDM team works closely with General Practitioners in County Clare to prevent, diagnose, and manage heart disease, ensuring people can access advice and support closer to home and without needing to go to hospital.

agement and onward referrals.

Direct GP referrals to Echocardiogram Clare GPs have direct access to echocardiography, enhancing their ability to diagnose and manage people with heart failure and atrial fibrillation Cardiac Rehabilitation Cardiac rehabilitation is an important part of Chronic Disease Management. It supports people living with heart disease through exercise, education, and lifestyle advice, helping them recover well and reduce the risk of future heart problems. We provide an initial one-to-one nursing assessment and group education sessions, and work as part of an integrated care team with Ennis Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation service.

Clinical Psychologist Our Clinical Psychologist works closely with the Cardiac Rehabilitation team to support mental health and emotional wellbeing. They also run workshops to help people manage the emotional impact of living with a long-term condition like Heart Disease.

What Services Are Available?

Consultant Cardiologist Clinics HSE Mid West consultant cardiologist, Dr Brendan Meany provides governance of the Cardiology Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Service. He accepts referrals from GPs in County Clare and provides weekly consultant clinics at the CDM Hub in Ennis, Cardiology Clinical Nurse Specialists Our nurses provide one-to-one cardiac assessments and education.

They also support medication man-

l HEART MONTH: Cardiology CDM Team Ennis PCC; (L-R) Bernadette Ryan, Fionnuala Fitzpatrick, Una Hehir, Dr. Brendan Meany, Dr. Eimear Farrell, Claire Arthur, Edel Griffey

As the service grows, we are looking at new ways to make it easier for people to get the care they need.

If you think you could benefit from any of these services, speak to your GP or Practice Nurse for further information.

28

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Business

Clean Ireland Recycling helps build new disability centre in Kenya

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON HEADQUARTERED, Clean Ireland Recycling is helping to build a new disability centre in Kenya.

Clean Ireland Recycling has teamed up with Irish charity Project ESPWA. The facility is set to open in early 2026 and will cater to hundreds of children and adults with disabilities.

Multiple volunteer missions from Ireland has helped the project to steadily take shape.

From its Shannon base, Clean Ireland Recycling is providing building materials that are scarce locally, including timber, door locks, hinges, electrical sockets and switches. The shipment recently left Cork Port bound for Kenya.

Managing Director Brian Lyons, who has a son with disabilities, will travel to Bamba with volunteers in February 2026 to help complete the centre.

Kilrush man Lyons said the project is “very much driven by personal connections,” particularly the inspiration of long-time ESPWA volunteer Pat Barry and board member Dan Ducey.

Project ESPWA, whose name means “hope” in Haitian Creole, has worked in crisis-affected communities worldwide since 2010. Each year, skilled Irish volunteers travel to Kenya to build schools, deliver clean water and support local communities.

“We have been inspired with stories of their work, from building a school in Shirango, Kenya, to the emotional moment locals saw clean water flow from a new borehole for the first

SCAN ME Scan here for application and availability forms.

time,” Brian added.

He said the partnership “highlights how local businesses can make a tangible difference overseas, providing not just materials but hope and opportunity to some of the world’s most disadvantaged communities.”

Clean Ireland Recycling provides waste management services across Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. With more than 35 years’ experience, the award-winning company has a strong record of supporting charitable projects both in Ireland and abroad, combining professional expertise with social and environmental responsibility.

CLARE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DAC Clare Tourism Development DAC is a subsidiary company of Clare County Council that oversees the management, development, and promotion of a portfolio of signature visitor attraction sites throughout Clare.

We are seeking applications from suitably qualified persons for a General Manager for the Clare Tourism Development DAC East visitor attraction sites, i.e. Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Craggaunowen Castle & Crannog, Knappogue Castle & Walled Garden and Inis Cealtra Visit Experience.

Clare Tourism is now hiring for • General Manager CTD East HOW TO APPLY / FURTHER INFORMATION: If you are interested in applying or wish to obtain further information about the position, contact the HR departmemt or email your CV with a cover letter to aohanlon@claretourismdev.ie.

Closing date for applications is Friday, 10th October 2025, at 5:00pm.

CLEAN IRELAND: Pat Barry of Project ESPWA and Diarmaid O Donnell (left) and Brian Lyons (right) of Clean Ireland Recycling pictured ahead of a shipment of building materials ahead of its departure for Kenya.

NOW HIRING: SANTA'S ELVES

Do you love Christmas and spreading holiday cheer?

Whether as an Elf or Breakfast with Santa Entertainer, we’re looking for cheerful, creative, and reliable individuals to help make this season magical at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park!

Christmas at Bunratty Elf: Welcoming families to Santa’s Grotto.

Engaging in fun, interactive activities.

Breakfast with Santa Entertainer: Welcome and engage families, creating a magical festive experience.

Creating festive moments for kids and adults.

Perform with Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Elves, maintaining cheer and enthusiasm.

You must have a camera-ready personality, a responsible attitude, and be punctual.

Assist with breakfast service & participate in holiday-themed activities.

*Must be over the age of 18 years. *Must be available for rehearsals, induction sessions and promotional photography.

Visit: www.bunrattycastle.ie/careers/christmasjobs/ for more information.

FOLLOW US:

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Business

29

Join Brothers of Charity Services Clare team BROTHERS OF CHARITY Services in Ireland provides supports to over 7,000 people with an intellectual disability or autism and operates in almost 1,000 locations throughout Ireland including County Clare.

Support Workers provide a key-working role for People Supported by the Services. They are responsible for assisting with personal care and with the development and achievement of Individual Plans.

They also support people in community participation and integration. With a salary range from €34,036 to €47,454 and great company benefits, it’s a great career with meaning.

We chatted to Sínead Allis who works as a Support Worker with Brothers of Charity Services and is based in Ennis.

She worked as a hairdresser before joining the organisation and has been there for four years. She was always interested in working in intellectual disability support and loves advocating for the person she supports. She assists them with leading an independent life by developing a close relationship to find their strengths and abilities as they learn new life skills.

Sínead works in a day service and follows a timetable with activities chosen by the person supported.

These include sports, employment, life skills, education and breaks away.

Sínead says she has developed an understanding of different needs & abilities as well as excellent communication skills, patience & empathy plus creative skills. She is happy working with a great team where she has made life long friends and enjoys being part of the Ennis community.

To find out more about working as a Support Worker or Social Care Worker with Brothers of Charity Services Clare, call in for a chat to their Open Evening on Thursday 2 nd October.

It runs from 5.30pm - 7.30pm at their offices (Gort Road Industrial Estate, Ennis, Co. Clare - Eircode V95 RH57).

RELIEF TO PERMANENT CONTRACTS AVAILABLE (full time/ part time/days/shift) Some of our benefits:  Competitive Rates of Pay  22 Days Annual Leave Full Training provided  Defined Benefit Pension Plan  Career Progression Please bring your CV. Looking forward to seeing you there!  BROTHERS OF CHARITY: Sínead Allis and Brendan Barrett

Website: careers.brothersofcharity. ie

30

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

News ADVERTORIAL

Ireland’s Nationwide Rent Pressure Zones:

Well-Intended Reform or Constitutional Overreach?

ON 20 June 2025, the government enacted sweeping changes by extending Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ) protections across all private and student tenancies in Ireland.

Previously covering only about 17% of tenancies across 59 local authority areas, RPZ rules now protect virtually every renter with a cap on rent increases at 2% or the lower rate of inflation where applicable. In Clare that has meant primarily that more rural locations have been brought into the RPZ net. Previously

is as follows: Differentiated landlord categories – Landlords with four or more tenancies (“large landlords”) face a ban on nofault evictions, effective for tenancies from 1 March 2026 onward. Smaller landlords (three or fewer tenancies) may only use no-fault evictions under limited reasons like hardship, sale, or family use. In simple terms what this means is that large landlords will have to sell their properties with their tenants in situe rather than providing vacant

Ennis and Shannon were affected by the legislation but with the alterations Killaloe, Kilrush, Ennistymon and Lahinch along with all Rural areas have been added. This has meant a significant extra level of complexity and headache for those landlords that have rented properties and try to stay on the right side of the legal framework.

So what has already become effective is that a process of nationwide rent control has been put in place – All existing tenants are now subject to RPZ limits (2% or inflation), from a practical point of view no rent increases greater than 2% can occur and the reality right now is that the inflation reference rate is less than 2% so an even lower cap is currently in place on rent reviews. What this has provided is certainty in Clare to those tenants who had upcoming rent reviews due and whose passing rent was below market. This is a seriously positive factor for all previously non RPZ tenants.

However what is proposed and what we are awaiting the legislation to show the exact nature of the details involved

possession such a scenario has multiple knock on consequences: Six-year tenancy terms and rent resets – New tenancies from 1 March 2026 must provide security of tenure for at least six years, after which landlords may reset rent to market value. The landlord can also reset the rent if the tenant leaves voluntarily or breaches the lease and vacates the property. If there is a no fault termination of tenancy then the rent cannot be reset.

Exemptions for new builds – Apartments commenced after 10 June 2025 can increase rents annually in line with inflation instead of being capped at 2%.

In the space of the last two months since this legislation was announced we are seeing a number of significant moves by clients to position themselves in advance of the legislation these include reduction in rented properties, leaving units vacant, pulling out of sales in non RPZ locations, transferring leases or folios between married couples.

Landlords are making these decisions on the basis of legislation that we are unfortunate-

ly yet to see. Previously some legal scholars cautioned that permanent, RPZ controls could infringe on landlords’ property rights, long protected under Irish law. Historically, rent control laws were struck down by the courts in the 1980s; although RPZs were limited in timeframe and geographically constrained which it was felt made allowance for the potential unconstitutionality of the legislation, this new expansion may invite renewed constitutional challenges.

Additionally, by limiting landlords’ ability to repossess or sell properties—especially for “large landlords”—the reforms risk crossing the line between legitimate regulation and unconstitutional deprivation of property rights. However who is going to have the financial willingness or ability to challenge the government on a constitutional point of law. The economics of such a challenge will not rest in County Clare but more likely in the higher rental environments and larger portfolios held in Dublin or Cork. So are landlords making decisions too early based on yet to see legislation. It’s a difficult question to answer as once we see the detail it is probably too late to take action on notice to quit or leaving a property vacant etc.

Generally from our experience landlords are leaving the market; this in my opinion is due to demographics, tax/administrative burden and also due to legislative complexity.

These landlords historically bought rented property as a pension alternative. Very few young landlords are entering the investment market and typically the reasons cited are availability of alternative avenues for investment, concern on engaging and dealing with problem tenants in tandem with an inability to keep up to date on the ever changing legislation. In the last 10 years there have been 8 major amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and more than 7 minor amendments all of which have made it more challenging for even the most legally minded landlord to try to navigate their legal responsibilities.

I am not sure that the Dept of Housing looked at the real short and long term consequences of the June announcement however with such a large lag to implementation they must have considered the short term negative factors. The combination of entrenched rent caps, tenure limitations, and eviction restrictions may disincentivize both existing and potential landlords further. Without clarity on legislation or exit flexibility, the private rental supply could continue to shrink in both the short term but more realistically in the long term.

Even though the government aims to encourage new apartment development

through inflation-linked rent rises, such investments may not fully compensate for the loss of existing rental stock and in any event are not economical at this point in time outside of Dublin or Cork.

The estimate for cost to complete a new build 2 bedroom apartment in Clare is over €350,000 so even with an inflation linked uplift in your rent there is limited or no viability in a sustained program of apartment building proceeding where the secondary market is approximately two thirds that price.

W h i l e these reforms underscore a clear commitment to tenant protections, it may well be argued that they overstep constitutional limits and exacerbate the rental supply crisis by driving landlords away. The delicate balance between tenant security and investor confidence seems perilously tilted—and the unwritten cost may be continued housing scarcity in rural towns such as those in County Clare.

Ultimately in what is a broken rental market the only rational solution will be continued government investment in direct house construction this has been and remains the only real solution to alleviate this crisis. In fairness Clare County Council along with a number of the approved housing bodies have done quite a lot to date in the county but we remain with over 200 applicants for almost every house we put on the rental market.

Greater supply will bring down rents, greater supply will reduce the h o m e less crisis, greater regulation for over 10 years now has been tried but to date has not been the solution.

In light of these changes, we are preparing to bring a carefully selected range of investment properties to the market over the coming months. These include both tenanted units— offering immediate rental income—and vacant properties that provide flexibility for

owner-occupiers or investors seeking to set new rents. For smaller landlords with a longterm outlook, this represents a rare chance to acquire well-located properties at strong value levels, with the security of professional management and the potential for capital appreciation as demand for rental properties in key urban and rural centres continues to grow.

For investors seeking stability and long-term growth, Quinn Property Management offers unrivalled local expertise. As the largest property manager in County Clare, we work with pension funds, private investment vehicles, and individual landlords to maximise returns while protecting assets. Our team currently manages over 2,400 units across Clare, Limerick, Galway, and Tipperary, with a rebuild cost exceeding €500 million. This scale gives us unique insight into rental trends and investment opportunities. Whether you are looking for tenanted properties with reliable income streams or vacant units with strong growth potential, our upcoming sales portfolio represents some of the most attractive investment opportunities in the west of Ireland.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

History beckons for Ennis Ladies

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

MICAELA Glynn is making history this weekend as she captains Ennis RFC Ladies team in County Clare’s first-ever All Ireland League (AIL) match.

From Kilmihil, Micaela is the latest in a new wave of West Clare athletes making their mark in Irish rugby. Kilmihil has already produced current Ireland Women’s captain Edel McMahon and former UL Bohemian, Munster, and Ireland player Eimear Considine.

Like many, Micaela started her sporting career playing football with her local club, Kilmihil GAA. Before proving herself as a strong player on the rugby pitch, Micaela excelled in GAA at club and county level. Playing as Kilmihil’s goalkeeper, a position she still holds today, she helped the senior ladies team win their first senior championship title in 2019. Micaela was also the goalkeeper for the Clare Senior Ladies team for four years.

Micaela took up rugby at the age of 15 with the U16 team in Kilrush.

At the time, she was also playing with Clare’s minor football team.

With football as her main focus, she initially played rugby as another hobby. Over time, Micaela found herself drawn to rugby and decided to devote more time to the sport.

At 19, Micaela started playing adult rugby as part of the first Ennis/Kilrush amalgamated team when it was first established four years ago. Micaela told The Clare Echo that the atmosphere and inclusive environment of rugby is what drew her to the sport: “There's just a certain atmosphere that kind of goes in tandem with the rugby community.

There’re positions on the field for every build of player. It's just a really welcoming environment where there's kind of a role or responsibility for everybody, no matter your age or no matter what.”

She captained the Ennis/Kilrush team last season, which culminated in a win to qualify for this year’s AIL competition.

This year has been a landmark for Micaela. After leading Ennis/ Kilrush to victory last year, earning the club its promotion to the Energia All-Ireland League, she

l Ennis RFC captain Micaela Glynn with vice captain Lyndsay Clarke Photo by Natasha Barton

was called up to the Munster senior women's rugby squad for the Vodafone Interprovincial Championship in August 2025.

Micaela played alongside a number of her Ennis/Kilrush teammates on the Munster squad, including vice-captain Lyndsay Clarke. She also came up against some of her Ennis/Kilrush teammates, such as Caoilfhionn Conway Morrissey, who lined out for Connacht.

Micaela says that having interprovincial players on the squad is an asset to their gameplay and has helped improve the team’s skill: “Having been involved with the Munster and the Connacht setups, you see what's expected of you and getting to experience a team that is playing at the highest standards. First of all, you're learning the expectations but also the standard that is out there. I think for our girls to bring that back into the club scene, for other girls who might have been involved, they're seeing and they're learning from them girls who have been coached at such a high level. I think player-to-player learning is one of the most important things.”

The Ennis ladies, formerly Ennis/ Kilrush, has quickly established itself as a force in Munster rugby, despite no adult women’s team existing in Clare four years ago. Micaela attributes this success to the team’s shared desire to keep rugby alive.

Micaela explained that when starting the team in 2021, their aim was not to win tournaments or reach the top division, but to create a space for sport and for women in Clare to continue playing rugby as adults:“Especially in our team at the moment, I think there's just a shared desire to keep rugby alive.

And the fact that we got the senior women's team going in the first place, I think everyone just kind of has the same motivation and the same desire. First of all, to keep being able to play rugby at an adult level, but as well as that, to have the standard that we're able and capable of playing at.”

With the team’s first AIL match taking place on Saturday, September 27, away against Tullow, Micaela is honoured to make history for her club and her county: “It is such an honour. The whole thing of making history as the first Clare AIL team and to be captain of that. I just don't have the words to

describe it. It's just amazing. With the group of girls that is there, it's just so nice to be captain and to be able to lead and try and set standards across the group.”

Micaela explained that her main goals going into the competition are not about winning but setting the standard, not only for themselves but for the underage girls in their club: “I think that's one thing that I do want to get across to the girls as captain this year. Even though it is a high standard of rugby that we are capable, we do have the ability.

We've shown that the last while. I think just to instil confidence in the girls is a massive aim or target that I'd have this year. And to just make sure that they have the backing in themselves as well as in the team.”

Micaela says that beyond the Division 1 competition, she is happy to see women’s rugby growing in the county. She hopes that the club’s involvement in the top-level will help pave the way for younger generations and empower girls to continue playing rugby as adults: “It's hard really when you kind of only see yourself as playing underage a couple of years ago, but now suddenly you're in this position where our team could be the reason that a lot of girls have started playing rugby.

“I think knowing that makes us kind of show up that extra 5 or 10 percent to the pitch, because you want that standard to still be there when them girls get through to senior level. You don't want them to have to be working their way up through again. They should have that entitlement to be able to play at AIL. I think it is a massive boost knowing that we've heard stories from different girls that are playing and that have been following us and following our game for the last two or three years.”

ENNIS RFC Energia Women’s AIL: Upcoming fixtures vs Tullow RFC: September 27, 2025, 2:00 PM (Away) vs Ballincollig RFC: October 4, 2025, 2:00 PM (Home) vs Wicklow RFC: October 18, 2025, 2:00 PM (Away) vs UL Bohs: October 25, 2025, 2:00 PM (Home) vs Galwegians RFC: November 8, 2025, 2:00 PM (Away) vs Cooke RFC: November 15, 2025, 2:00 PM (Home) vs Blackrock RFC: November 29, 2025, 2:00 PM (Away) vs Railway Union: December 6, 2025, 2:00 PM (Home) vs Old Belvedere RFC: December 13, 2025, 2:00 PM (Home)

Lyndsay wants ‘no regrets’ AT JUST 19 years of age, Lyndsay Clarke has represented her town, her province, and her country on the rugby pitch, writes Lisa Mullaly. She will now play as vice-captain of the first ever Clare team to compete in the Energia All Ireland League 2025/2026 with Ennis RFC senior ladies team.

Coming from a GAA background, the Doora/Barefield woman admits her experience playing other sports has helped her adapt quickly. “I find I transfer my fitness from GAA over to rugby […] it brings new skills into both sports.”

Ennis outhalf Lyndsay was first introduced to rugby aged 13 during a ‘Give it a Try’ event at Ennis RFC to promote the newly established girls’ teams. She was a member of the U14 side which went on to win the league and continued to play with Ennis through the age grades.

Lyndsay, who is in UCC where she studies Occupational Therapy, has continued her upward trajectory and was first called to train with the Munster U18 panel when she was just 15, making her inter-provincial debut against Ulster. She was selected to play on Ireland’s U18 squad in 2017 and most recently, was selected for the Ireland U20 Women’s team for the Six Nations Summer Series, starting at outside centre in the opening match against Wales.

Lyndsay has played in AIL matches previously with UL Bohemians, scoring four tries in her first match against Tullow. She is excited to be back competing with her home club and looks forward to supporting her teammates through the competition which kicks off for Ennis with the team’s first match on Saturday, September 27.

“You’d think I wouldn’t be nervous, but I am, especially because it’s a step up for our team, but we’re well capable […] it’s excited nerves more than anything because we are making history and it’ll be an enjoyable day regardless.”

Looking at the competition ahead, Lyndsay’s main goal as vice-captain is to support her teammates. She wants Ennis RFC to prove they are strong enough to compete with top-level teams: “As long as we’ve worked hard and we’ve tried our best in the games, no matter what the outcome is, we’ll be proud of ourselves and we’ll have no regrets.”

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

‘Fairytale story’: Ennis RFC journey

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

FROM just 10 players in 2021 to Clare’s first All-Ireland League representatives, Ennis RFC’s women’s team has achieved what head coach Gareth O’Hanlon calls a “fairytale story.”

Ennis RFC, formerly the Ennis/Kilrush side, has quickly established itself as a force in Munster rugby, despite no adult women’s team existing in Clare just four years ago. In 2023, they won the Munster Division 2 League and Cup double, following that with back-toback Division 1 titles in 2024 and 2025. The promotion to the AIL marks a remarkable journey from a small amalgamated team to competing at the top level of Irish women’s club rugby.

The women’s team has grown exponentially since its formation. From an initial 10 players at their first match in Lee’s Road in 2021, they now field over 60 players, attracting athletes from across Clare, as well as Galway,

Limerick, and even the USA. Before the team was established, there was no adult women’s rugby in Clare. Interest from players finishing their underage careers in Ennis and Kilrush led the clubs to creating an amalgamated side on a three-year agreement.

“

underage teams, and played adult rugby internationally in Australia and the US. As the team prepares for their first AIL game on Saturday against Tullow, following their qualifying win over Enniskillen earlier this year, they are hoping to redeem themselves against the side

When we set this up it was literally about providing a rugby team for adult female athletes in Clare and I suppose it really snowballed. Within 3 years they became the No1 team in Munster Gareth O’Hanlon, a Limerick native with a lifetime of rugby experience, was asked to bring the two Clare teams together. He started playing at St. Munchin’s College at four, continued with Richmond RFC and Munster

that halted their campaign in 2024. Gareth says the majority of players are from Clare, and emphasising a Clare identity has helped create a strong bond.

“A lot of our players are homegrown. They’ve grown

up together, they’ve played together.

“That Ennis and Kilrush team have played against each other but I think we’ve created a great bond and I suppose as management, that’s the one thing that we can pride ourselves on is that we’re a very close team and anyone that has come into that environment, they stay because they feel part of the team and I think that’s a big plus and it’s very rewarding to be part of that as well.”

Gareth believes the Ennis/ Kilrush team has “put women’s rugby on the map in Clare.” When he first took on the role of manager, the goal wasn’t to win tournaments but to provide a place for women to continue playing sport.

“When we set this up it was literally just about providing a rugby team for adult female athletes in Clare and I suppose it really snowballed.

Within three years they’d become the number one team in Munster,” says O’Hanlon.

In preparation for their

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

from humble beginnings to AIL club AIL debut, the team has focused on injury prevention through strength and conditioning, with support from forwards coach Alex Simpson and S&C coach Chloe Murray.

Gareth emphasises that the environment is being made as professional as possible to help the players perform week in, week out.

Looking ahead, Gareth expects the standard of competition to “go up a level,” but success will be measured beyond winning.

“We need to keep our squad very healthy, I suppose, because they’re coming up against bigger, stronger teams that they’re probably used to, so we’re expecting the girls to do a lot of recovery and mind themselves midweek.”

The club and wider community have been hugely supportive, from helping secure sponsors to cheering on the team.

“We’ve lots of people from camogie, hurling, football, and soccer reaching out to us as well, and they’re proud that there’s a top-level women’s rugby team in Clare.

“I suppose it’s great the community have really added to that atmosphere and the buzz around the county, so it’s been

l Ennis RFC Ladies celebrate their promotion to AIL and (left) forwards

coach Alex Simpson with Head Coach Gareth O’Hanlan

Main photo by Natasha Barton

absolutely fantastic.”

Gareth is optimistic the team’s success will encourage even more interest in women’s rugby in Clare, creating a clear pathway for girls from mini rugby to adult level.

“Now there’s a clear pathway that you can play rugby in Clare for un-

derage teams, and Ennis is providing that top-level rugby.

“So it’s only the start of it, but it’s really going to take off, and I think especially with the structures, with the underage structures, it’s going to take a couple more years.”

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

Megan’s journey reflects rapid growth of women’s rugby at Ennis RFC

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

WOMEN’S rugby in Clare has grown rapidly in recent years, and Megan O’Connor’s journey is part of that story. Once limited by a lack of teams in her area, the Shannon native now lines out with Ennis RFC as they prepare for their first Energia All Ireland League (AIL) campaign.

Megan’s initial interest in rugby came from an absence of sport during the winter and the desire to be active year-round.

“There's nothing on during winter and I wanted to do something to keep me going. I was only young but I knew that sport is something that I love. And I just wanted to keep going and keep going,” Megan explained.

Like a lot of girls on her team rugby was not Megan’s first sport. She grew up playing camogie and football for Wolfetones GAA in Shannon. She first took up rugby at the age of 12. Encouraged by her dad to try a new sport while taking a break from camogie Megan started training with the U12 boys team in St.Senan’s RFC in Shannon.

That first spell was short-lived. Once she aged out of the U12 group, Megan could no longer train with the boys, and with no girls’ rugby in Clare at the time, her rugby journey came to an abrupt pause.

Megan picked the rugby ball back up in 2023 when Ennis RFC were recruiting for the Ennis/Kilrush ladies team, which had been formed in 2021. The team, a joint venture between the two clubs, gave local players the chance to compete and develop together. Now, as they move into the AIL Megan and her team mates will represent Ennis RFC in the national league.

Even though rugby has become her main focus she continues to play football and camogie. Even though GAA and Rugby usually run opposite to each other, there are periods when they overlap.

Megan explains that it can be hard to balance the training load between all three sports and she often has to choose between them however Rugby usually wins out.

“They do clash at times, especially during the league. I have to pick a day where I have to go to this.

I have to pick camogie or football or rugby. And the majority of the time I do pick rugby. I do love the girls here and I love the training. And I know I will pick a rugby match over a camogie or football match.”

Since starting with the Ennis/Kilrush team two years ago Megan has seen the club develop and grow at an exponential rate.

Starting out in division 2 two years ago Megan has seen the team complete a league and cup double two years in a row and secure themselves a place in the upcoming AIL competition.

Megan attributes the team's rapid success to the team and the support of the community around them. Going into Saturday's match in Tullow Megan is expecting a big step up in physicality. She also expressed that playing new teams will be a challenge as she does not know what to expect from the opposition.

“I know physicality will be a main jump for us. Coming from playing the same four teams every second weekend, to now playing every against girls who have been play-

ing AIL since they were a teen. […] I think we will do really well. On the strength side of it. But we know it will still be a challenge at the same time.”

Beyond having the opportunity to play in the top division Megan says that the promotion is a huge boost to the club and the community. She explained that the success of the team has helped make rugby more visible and accessible Clare showing younger girls that “rugby is an option.”

Speaking about the support she has seen from the community Megan says; “It is amazing. Even when I am at work now I have people coming up saying ‘We saw your match report […] It is so weird.

People acknowledging that we are winning matches. They know who we are.”

Megan says that she is grateful to local media channels supporting the team's achievements and promoting the club; “It’s amazing how they are putting our name out there. Showing exactly what we can do. How they promote us as women.

And promote the whole team. It is amazing.”

l Megan O’Connor and Caoilfhionn Conway Morrissey prepare for Saturday’s away tie against Tullow

Photo by Natasha Barton

‘Rugby has helped me branch out you die for each other on the pitch’

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

CAOILFHIONN Conway Morrissey has worn the Ennis RFC jersey since the club’s senior women’s side was founded, making her part of the team’s story from the very start. Now, she is preparing to line out with her teammates as the first Clare side to compete in the All-Ireland League At age 15, Caoilfhionn, along with her two younger sisters, claimed Kilrush as their home club with the encouragement of her Dad who was an avid rugby fan.

Growing up on a farm, Caoilfhionn’s Dad saw his daughters’ strength and encouraged them to start playing rugby. It was a sport that Caoilfhionn came to realise suited her build.

“I was always punished for my physicality in football, whereas in rugby it’s praised. So it just suited me, it suited my build, it suited me as an athlete to play rugby. And I suppose my dad could see that, and he knew I'd love it, so he kind of just gave me that extra push.”

She played two and a half years of underage rugby, but took a three-year break after turning 18 and realising that she didn’t have a team to play with. She returned to rugby when the Ennis and Kilrush clubs amalgamated and started their senior team.

Rugby has helped her branch out in more ways than one, Caoilfhionn explained, as it built her up as a person and enhanced her communication skills. It gave her the opportunity to meet and play with girls from all over county Clare Playing with people from all over Clare, compared to only the girls from her village football club, she said, “You play football with the girls you go to school with […] you play with the girls from your village, whereas rugby, because it was Kilrush, it was girls from all over West Clare, and then again, when we joined Ennis, it was girls from all over County Clare.”

“It really helped me branch out, make friends, it's a really good community, you die for each other out on the pitch.”

Many of the members who joined the team either had not played rugby in a while or had not played at all. “A lot of us were in the same boat”, Caoilfhionn explained.

When training began, members recognised their similar passion with a shared previous lack of an outlet. She said, “It didn’t matter if we won or we lost, we just played rugby for the love of rugby, and it was great that we didn’t have that pressure.

Nobody expected us to win matches; You could just go out, play, enjoy it, and we just happened to win.”

“We’ve grown so much in the last three years, individually and as a team”, said Caoilfhionn, mostly thanks to the team’s management. She commented that the effort they put in brings the girls onto another level: “It’s the reason we have been winning so much, and we have progressed so much.” “We recognise that, we feel that, and it drives us on.”

Caoilfhionn was invited to join the Connaught rugby team over the summer and recently competed in the Interprovincial Championship, where she was named in the 23 for each game. She describe the experience as big step up. She said that the Connacht team expects high standards and every training session must be treated like a match. She feels since starting training with Connacht her skills as a player have improved and she to bring these improvements into the upcoming AIL competition.

An aspect of playing on the Connacht squad Caoilfhionn was not expecting was the challenge of facing off against her sister and Ennis/Kilrush team mates who were selected for the Munster side. When speaking about her experiences going head-to-head with familiar faces from the Munster squad, Caoilfhionn shared that she had to play against her sisters. “It was a weird experience…

When I came up against them in the match, I couldn’t tackle them. I just let someone beside me tackle them.”

Despite these “weird” occurrences, Caoilfhionn stated that she wouldn’t change it and described how fun it is to come up against them in matches.

Despite training with Munster through the summer Caoilfhionn is still very excited about the team’s recent promotion and the prospect of lining out with her home town team mates against inter-provincial players. “I can’t wait to play against girls you’ve heard about playing with Munster and Leinster, and Connaught for years. I want to see how I match up to them, and I want to see how good we are.”

For Caoilfhionn, this promotion is not simply another win; it represents a milestone in her own rugby journey, reflecting both the team’s rapid rise and her personal progress within the sport.

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

l Saher Hamden in action for USA against Ireland and (inset) arriving in Ireland

‘A good hit lifts your soul’: Ennis’ USA recruit ready to do damage

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

JUST a few days away from Ennis RFC’s first-ever Energia All Ireland League (AIL) match, Saher Hamden is preparing to bring her international skill and experience to the Clare side.

The Ohio native joins the senior women’s team as a new recruit from the United States, excited to contribute to a squad making history.

Growing up in Cleveland Ohio, Saher was a self-described tomboy who played a variety of sports, including basketball and softball. Rugby first came into her life during high school when a new school encouraged her to try the sport during a spring season.

“It just brought together all the sports I played pretty much and added the physicality to it,” Saher told The Clare Echo.

For Saher, the physicality of rugby is one of its biggest draws. “When you do it right, and you just, you feel like you’ve made that good hit, you had good shoulder connection, good drive, you land on top of them or whatever, it just kind of lifts your soul, it gets you fired up.”

Saher has competed at a high level in the US, including with the Denver Onyx, where she played a key role in helping the team win a national championship, and later represented the USA team, facing Ireland in a November 2021 in a test match at the RDS Arena in Dublin.

Saher attended her first Ennis RFC training session on Tuesday, September 16. Despite being new to Irish rugby, she quickly bonded with her teammates and was impressed by their commitment and camaraderie.

She said, “I just came to play rugby with Ennis. I’ve heard about Ennis, and I’m excited to be here.” Reflecting on the team’s

spirit, she added, “I feel like people underestimate when a team has heart[…] compared to some of these other teams, who I’m sure have been around for 20 plus years, but heart and working for each other will take you a long way, so I’m excited to do that season with them.”

Despite her extensive experience, she had never consistently played her preferred position of centre until joining Ennis RFC. At centre, whether wearing 12 or 13, Saher describes herself as “a little shifty and a playmaker,” a role that allows her to use her speed and agility.

With less than two weeks of training with her new team under her belt Saher is determined not to let nerves get the better of her and plans to remain focused on embracing this new challenge.

“I don’t know what to expect, but I’m ready to jump in, learn with the team, and give it everything I’ve got," Saher said.

While she is excited about jumping into a new competitive season Saher is equally enthusiastic about being part of the growing women’s rugby scene in Ireland, noting how the sport now provides a platform and recognition for female athletes that was often lacking in previous years.

“It is empowering, you know, as a woman to have that platform finally. And the girls also mentioned, they get president now at the club. They don’t get seconds, they don’t get thirds, they don’t get dismissed and pushed to the side, they get priority. And if people just prioritise women’s sports a little bit more, they would see it’s worth it.”

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

ENNIS RFC 2025/2026 Energia Women’s All-Ireland League (AIL)

Funding a ‘constant battle’ as Ennis enter AIL

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

The Ennis Ladies Rugby team will take on Tullow in the first-ever home All-Ireland League (AIL) match to be played this weekend.

Their promotion marks a historic moment for the county but it also brings major challenges off the field, as Ennis RFC works to meet AIL standards and secure the funding needed to sustain the growth of the club.

The Ennis Ladies secured promotion last March after defeating Enniskillen in the AIL qualifiers. With that win, Ennis ladies became the first club in Clare to reach the competition.

As soon as the victory was confirmed, the club started preparing for the teams AIL debut. “Last March, when we knew we’d won Division One and were in the All-Ireland round robins [… ] once we got into that, planning started,” explains Brian Farrell, Vice Chairman of Ennis RFC. “We knew the club would have to give the girls extra support. They are moving up a level, playing against Irish internationals and inter-provincial players.”

The jump to AIL rugby

meant Ennis RFC needed not only to strengthen the team’s resources, but also to upgrade facilities to meet competition requirements.

Since March, the club has worked on a wide range of projects. One of the first priorities was catering. AIL rules require clubs to provide substantial hot meals for visiting squads.

The club will contract a catering company to handle the cooking, but it has already upgraded its kitchen and dining facilities to cater for larger numbers. Most of this work was completed over the summer.

“We had to invest in the clubhouse to be able to cater for that,” Farrell says. “We brought in an outside company for cooking, but we upgraded our kitchen, dining space, and seating so we can serve proper meals to 50–80 players and staff.”

The club has also advanced existing development plans.

Major changes are planned to the dressing rooms, which currently cannot accommodate men’s and women’s teams at the same time. The new layout will expand from four to six dressing rooms, each with its own showers

and toilets, ensuring privacy and flexibility.

Work has also been carried out on the main pitch, which is heavily used by the club’s 17–18 teams. Farrell says this remains a major challenge: “Most AIL clubs would have a dedicated number one pitch and two or three training pitches. We don’t have that luxury. We’re fielding nearly 18 teams off one pitch.

It’s a big juggle.”

To address this, Ennis RFC is exploring the installation of a 4G pitch to increase training capacity and ensure consistency. Parking facilities are also under review, with plans to partner with nearby venues to ease congestion during peak times.

Alongside the physical upgrades, the club has invested in supporting the players through the transition. The senior women’s team now has additional coaches, a structured S&C programme in partnership with ‘Morey Movement’, and physios for matchdays and recovery.

While these developments have been vital, they have also created significant financial pressure for Ennis.

Farrell admits that the promotion came earlier than

l Ennis RFC taking part in this year’s Patrick’s Day parade expected: “The girls getting nies are under pressure. It’s promoted, while brilliant, not easy.” probably came a year or two To bridge the gap, Ennis early. We’ve had to split our RFC is seeking new sponsors. focus this year between mak- The club is currently looking ing sure the ladies are ready for a main title sponsor for for AIL and financing the the women’s senior team, as continual development of well as two or three secondthe club.” ary sponsors for jerseys.

Fundraising efforts are In addition, the club has now stretched across three launched a development fronts: supporting the wom- package aimed at 100 loen’s team in the AIL, main- cal businesses or individutaining ongoing youth and als. Each would contribute senior rugby programmes, €5,000, either once-off or and delivering long-term in- spread over five years, with frastructure projects. the funds dedicated solely to “The finances for any club facilities and infrastructure. are tough, it’s a constant “We have been very lucky uphill battle,” Farrell says. with our current sponsors; “Prices are going up, compa- Enda Galvan from Galvan

Construction, Specsavers in Ennis, and Midwest Lock Smiths have been hugely supportive,” Farrell says.

“But we have a large body of work to fundraise for, and any help or support, financial or otherwise, from the wider community would be hugely appreciated.”

Anyone interested in supporting Ennis RFC and the Senior Ladies in their AIL debut can contact Brian Farrell at vicechair@ennisrfc.ie.

While the financial challenges are substantial, Farrell says the promotion has already delivered lasting benefits. Female participation in the club has grown steadily, with more girls joining at underage level and, for the first time, full teams being fielded at U10 and U12.

“We’re now able to offer a complete pathway for female players, from minis right up to senior rugby,” he says.

“That wasn’t possible before.”

Speaking about the ladies team and the influence they have had on the club Farrell says; “There's a great core of girls in that group. They're a model for sportswomen in fairness. A lot of support has come into that group from the wider community.”

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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Tony Kelly Proud Credit Union Member.

Warning If you do not meet the repayments on your loan your account will go into arrears This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future T&C s Apply All loans are sub ect to appro al St Francis Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland :

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O’Connor praises ‘fighting spirit’ of Éire Óg in dogfight TUS CLARE SHC SEMI-FINAL

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

ÉIRE ÓG 1-14 KILMALEY 1-12 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME ÉIRE ÓG Frees for: 11 (5/6) Wides: 9 (6/3) Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 1-8 Top scorer: Danny Russell (0-6 5f 1’65) Bookings: None Own puckouts won: 13 from 24 (54%)

KILMALEY Frees for: 12 (7/5) Wides: 11 (7/4) Spread of scorers: 6 Scores from play: 1-6 Top scorer: Michael O’Malley (0-7 5f 1’65) Bookings: Michael O’Malley (16) Own puckouts won: 16 from 24 (67%) REFEREE: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford) l Éire Óg’s Aaron Fitzgerald breaks the challenge of Kilmaley’s Mikey O’Neill Photo by Gerard O’Neill

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ÉIRE ÓG’s “fighting spirit” proved decisive in overcoming Kilmaley in a real semi-final battle to qualify for a first Clare SHC final since 2022.

Though not a game for the ages in terms of its hurling with just twenty eight scores over the hour, Saturday’s semi-final between Éire Óg and Kilmaley was a proper dogfight with no team yielding an inch. In what was a very even tie, the sides were level on

seven occasions over the hour.

Analysis can never compensate for spirit, Éire Óg manager Gerry O’Connor explained.

“You can do all the homework and tactics you want but that came down to a dogfight and heart, spirit and character, real fighting spirit which is what we’ve been talking about. We knew Kilmaley were going to come at us, we saw the performances they have given all year, they have been phenomenal on breaking ball and

coming off the shoulder, we had to meet them face on physically and on breaking ball, we didn’t do that well enough in the first half but we did it really well in the second half”.

Part of their tactics saw midfielder Darren Moroney and centre forward David Reidy trade places at the beginning of the game, the end result seeing Éire Óg raid for goal with twelve seconds on the clock. “We got a great start, Darren has a very good strike,” O’Connor acknowledged.

He continued, “It was an absolute dogfight, we got a great start, we went asleep a bit and they came into it, ultimately we knew at half time that we were in a really good position because we felt that we didn’t play at all, we felt there was definitely going to be opportunities for us albeit we were against the wind.

“I think Darragh Stack was outstanding, Fionan Treacy was excellent, all of our defence really stood up but our subs won vital balls in the last ten to fifteen minutes, it was a real panel performance which is what we were really thrilled about”.

At half time only one point separated the teams with Killmaley 0-7 1-3 in front. A defining third quarter followed from Éire Óg who outscored their opponents 0-7 0-2 in this period, Darren O’Brien and Oran Cahill both converting two points each in this period.

“The message was very simply that we were losing a huge amount of breaking ball on our puckout and their puckout, we vowed that we would fight for breaking ball in that second half,” Gerry said of what was the focus within their dressing room

at half-time.

Conor Cleary struck for goal on fifty minutes to give Kilmaley the lead for the first and only time in the second half. Éire Óg’s response was impressive as they kept their opponents scoreless for the remainder of the game and struck three Danny Russell placed balls to seal the win. “We’ve been talking about that all year, there is going to be chaos and setbacks, you have to handle them and get on with it. It was a misfortunate mistime by Darren, ultimately it made us a better team because you’re going to have setbacks and you have to get over those setbacks”.

O’Connor was a selector to Matt Shannon in 2022 when Éire Óg lost out by a point to Ballyea in what was their last county final.

He said they are delighted to be back in the showpiece event of Clare hurling.

“We vowed after 2022, we brought on no sub in 2022, since we’ve been involved since 2022 all we wanted was to build a panel because you have to have subs to turn things around in the last quarter and in the second half in general”.

Lynch’s charges showing maturity beyond their years

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SPRINKLED with youth, Clooney/ Quin’s young guns also possess plenty of maturity which has led them to a first Clare SHC final appearance in eight years.

Clooney/Quin overcame Ballyea who are noted as one of the county’s most battle-hardened sides in Sunday’s semi-final in a 4-15 2-19 victory.

Fergal Lynch captained Clooney/ Quin when they last contested a senior decider, losing out to Sixmilebridge following a replay in 2017. “I’d trade it in a heartbeat if I could get in to be captain or even playing some part but it is great to be there and to be part of it again, we’ve been pushing and knocking on the door for a while to try get into quarter-finals and semi-finals, last year was a bit of a disaster, it is amazing the difference a year makes, we’re there but finals are for winning,” he told The Clare Echo.

Four different goal scorers in every quarter of the game was crucial to their victory with Sam Scanlon, Peter Duggan, Darragh McNamara and Jerry O’Connor all raising green flags. “We have a lot of very potent forwards that like to express themselves, some of them are very young and only played in a Minor A final just twelve months ago, it is great we can have that talent to dip into and go after, the lads acquitted themselves well and we’ll be doing to do the exact same thing in two weeks time and perform to the best of our ability, whatever happens will happen and the result will take care of itself”.

How Clooney/Quin’s younger players

TUS CLARE SHC SEMI-FINAL

CLOONEY-QUIN 4-15 BALLYEA 2-19 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis Compiled by Páraic McMahon

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

STORY OF THE GAME CLOONEY/QUIN Frees for: 11 (6/5) Wides: 11 5/6) Spread of scorers: 6 Scores from play: 4-7 Top scorer: Peter Duggan (1-10 7f) Bookings: None Own puckouts won: 20 from 33 (61%)

BALLYEA Frees for: 15 (8/7) Wides: 12 (4/8) Spread of scorers: 5 Scores from play: 1-12 Top scorer: Tony Kelly (1-14 6f 1’Pen) Bookings: Jack Browne (4), Cathal Doohan (29), Own puckouts won: 17 from 28 (61%) REFEREE: Jim Hickey (Cratloe)

have seamlessly adapted to the senior ranks has not surprised Lynch. “These lads are very mature players who have played in a lot of big games with Clare, St Flannan’s College, St Joseph’s Tulla and with Clooney/Quin as well, they are competitors and performers, it is not just about them, it is about the 34 lads training all year, we played ye (Newmarket-on-Fergus) in a Clare Cup earlier this year and only five of them were playing in that game and a lot of them were inter-county bound, it can have its advantages and disadvantages but this year we’ve managed it a bit better in how we’re approaching it and it is paying off”.

An increase in Clooney/Quin’s application in the second half was a defining moment in Sunday’s semifinal, the 2013 All-Ireland winner felt.

“We had to try batten down the hatches

with Tony (Kelly) and Conor (Grogan) did a really good job starting off but Tony being Tony he goes into positions and is able to get great scores, a few tactical changes and the lads up front working that bit harder, we didn’t stand by our principles and values in the first half on our workrate, that was evident in the stats and the lads really knuckled down in the second half and the stats were up in the semi-final and we got a result out of it”.

Offering a huge lift to their supporters was Martin Duggan’s point on sixty two minutes when the substitute managed to hook Jack Browne, turn over possession and split the ball between the posts.

“We only used one sub against Feakle because we felt the lads were working really hard, training had gone really well in the last two weeks, lads were chomping at the bit and trying to improve and play some part in the semi-final because semi-finals are occasions in themselves, the cavalry that came in acquitted themselves well

l Clooney/Quin’s Darragh Keogh charges out of defence and beyond

Cathal Doohan of Ballyea

for Clooney/Quin’s cause”. Éire Óg await in the county final and it will be an occasion to savour, Fergal said. “Éire Óg are an experienced team, they have been in the quarter-finals and semi-finals for last six or seven years, they have hugely experienced players and with that they have a real weapon in Shane

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

O’Donnell, not alone talking about us having a few good young fellas, the Clearys are really good players, Rian Mulcahy, Darren Moroney, they are all good players and it will be an even keel game and we’re really looking forward to it”.

38

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Proud Sponsors Clare Echo’s pairings are finalised Last fourof the hurling Championship Hurling Coverage PAIRINGS for the last four clashes www.stfranciscu.ie in the Premier Intermediate, Intermediate and Junior A hurling championships have been made, writes Páraic McMahon.

Clare GAA conducted the draws for the penultimate stage of the competitions on Sunday evening with Chairman Kieran Keating and PRO Aaron Carroll conducting the draw in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg.

After topping their respective groups, O’Callaghans Mills and Whitegate advanced straight to the Clare PIHC semi-finals. The Mills will face Ruan in the last four after they defeated Tulla with a last-minute Shane Punch goal while Clarecastle’s reward for blitzing Tubber is a rematch with Whitegate.

It will be a second meeting of

the Magpies and Whitegate in this year’s campaign, Clarecastle were 1-22 0-17 winners when they met in the first round. Whitegate won’t be short of motivation for this tie as it was Clarecastle aided by an outstanding display by goalkeeper Cian Broderick which relegated them from the senior ranks in 2022.

First teams from Ogonnelloe and Smith O’Briens are bidding to win promotion from the Clare IHC to the Clare PIHC. Both sides were relegated last year in the restructuring of the second tier along with Inagh/Kilnamona, all three teams have made the semi-finals and they are joined by Kilmaley, winners of last year’s Junior A hurling championship.

Banner’s quest to win promotion to the Clare IHC for the first time Tony Kelly Proud Credit Union Member.

Warning If you do not meet the repayments on your loan your account will go into arrears This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future T&C s Apply All loans are sub ect to appro al St Francis Credit Union Limited is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland :

Darragh Stack - Éire Óg MATCH-WINNERS can be at either end of the field as Darragh Stack demonstrated to ensure his selection as the St Francis Credit Union/The Clare Echo player of the week.

Stack was between the posts for Éire Óg and pulled off four vital saves to deny Kilmaley from hitting for goal at different stages of the contest.

In what was a cagey battle, the contribution of Darragh was immense when he denied Tom O’Rourke in either half, Conor Cleary and Tommy Barry in the first and second half respectively.

Cleary did manage to raise a green flag but it turned out to be Kilmaley’s final score of the half.

Darragh’s involvement was not just confined to the big saves. As has been the case throughout the year, he continues to make himself available from open play and is very accurate with his distribution.

Darragh will be presented with a €50 voucher for the Old Ground Hotel courtesy of St Francis Credit Union, sponsor of our senior club hurling championship coverage.

PUNCH LANDS KNOCKOUT BLOW FOR RUAN TO OVERCOME TULLA

INTERMEDIATE HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP QF SCAN FOR REPORT

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remains on track but they must overcome Clooney/Quin in the Junior A hurling semi-final. The other side of the draw pits neighbours Ballyea and Clarecastle against each other.

TUS Clare Premier Intermediate Hurling Championship semi-finals: Ruan vs O’Callaghans Mills Clarecastle vs Whitegate TUS Clare Intermediate Hurling Championship semi-finals: Inagh/Kilnamona vs Ogonnelloe Smith O’Briens vs Kilmaley Martin Murphy Building and Civil Contractor Ltd. Junior A Hurling Championship semi-finals: Banner vs Clooney/Quin Ballyea vs Clarecastle

Banner & Kilmihil qualify for ladies football decider

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

Ruan trio Aidan Lynch, Darragh McInerney and Conor Wynne celebrate at the final whistle Photo by Gerard O’Neill

CLARECASTLE CLIP TUBBER AS MAGPIES MAKE LAST FOUR

INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP QF

SCAN FOR REPORT

Tubber’s Ronan Monahan is tackled by Clarecastle defender Cian Galvin

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

BANNER LADIES and Kilmihil are to meet in the final of the Clare LGFA senior championship.

The Banner are back. The most successful club in the history of Clare ladies football is back in the final of the county senior championship after dethroning champions Kilmurry Ibrickane on Sunday.

Inspired by Niamh O’Dea they recorded a six point win over the holders to book a final date against Kilmihil who, earlier in the afternoon, had overcome the challenge of last year’s intermediate winners, Fergus Rovers in a game played at Kildysart Banner are back in the final Banner 1-13 Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-10 Venue: Páirc Mhichil Ui Eithir, Ballynacally With a mixture of experienced and new players, the Ennis based Banner ladies dethroned the title holders in a lively contest at Ballynacally on Sunday afternoon.

The holders landed the opening two points in this tie but when the half time whistle sounded Banner were 1-7 to 0-3 in front.

The goal came at the mid point of the half from Laurie Ryan after she had received a sublime pass from Niamh O’Dea. The title holders weren’t prepared to give up their title easily and they landed five unanswered points

l Kilmihil full back Aoife McNamara powers out of defence

when the second half got underway to move to within two points of their opponents at the three quarter stage.

The Banner regained control of the tie and they landed some impressive points in the closing quarter to seal victory and their place in the final.

The defending title holders’ chances weren’t helped by the absence of Ellie Hanrahan from the starting team due to injury.

Banner: Kate Dowling; Siobhan McMahon, Sinead O’Keeffe, Niamh Beirne; Laoise Ryan, Clare Hehir (01), Aine Longe; Eimear Burke, Laurie Ryan (1-0); Ciara Ryan (0-1), Niamh O’Dea (0-3), Holly Wynne (0-1); Louise Henchy (0-2), Caoimhe Cahill (0-1), Aoibhinn Ryan (0-3); Subs; Anne Marie Meeneghan for C. Ryan (inj); Caelin Fitzgerald (0-1) for A. Longe; Kilmurry Ibrickane; Rebecca Sexton; Niamh Miller, Aoife Martin, Jessica Doohan; Rachel Tubridy, Rebecca Doohan, Kaela Markham; Sophie Daly, Ciara McCarthy (0-2); Kayla Darcy, Amy Sexton (0-2) Ide O’Connor; Karen Galvin, Chloe Moloney (0-5), Joanna Doohan (0-1); Subs: Ellie Hanrahan for R. Tubridy; Dympna Garrihy for J. O’Connor;

Higgins’ goal kills Rovers’ challenge Kilmihil 1-9 Fergus Rovers 0-5 A stronger and more experienced Kilmihil side proved too strong for Fergus Rovers in this senior semi-final played at Kildysart on Sunday.

Galway camogie player Dearbhla Higgins excelled for the winners at midfield. She struck for the game’s only goal early in the second half

Photo by

and this killed off the challenge of Fergus Rovers.

The opening quarter was evenly contested and just a point separated the sides after fifteen minutes with the winners ahead, 0-3 to 0-2.

Kilmihil then struck for four unanswered points which helped them to a 0-7 to 0-3 half time lead.

With wind assistance to come in the second half there was an air of confidence amongst supporters of Fergus Rovers but this quickly disappeared when the winners struck for crucial scores.

Seven minutes into the second half Dearbha Higgins struck for the game’s only goal and she quickly followed with a point.

Rovers lacked scoring power on the day and all but one of their points came from frees.

Kilmihil; Michaela Glynn; Rosie Currane, Aoife McNamara, Niamh Quinlivan; Megan Downes Rigney, Ellie O’Gorman, Ashling Downes; Dearbhla Higgins (1-1), Laura Egan; Catriona O’Gorman, Ailish Considine (0-3), Edel McNamara (0-1); Aine McNamara (0-1), Becky Mahon (0-1), Sara Browne (0-2); Subs: Katie Mullen for S Browne; Jenny Kelly for C. O’Gorman; Carol O’Leary for B.. Mahon; Katie O’Halloran for A. Downes; Genevieve Scullion for A McNamara Fergus Rovers: Aoife Griffin; Abbie Cahill, Orla Hogan, Eimear Burke; Abbie Doyle, Shauna Melican (0-3), Ava Cotter; Aine Slattery, Ali Talty; Ellen Griffin, Louise Griffin, Alanna Hanrahan; Hazel Keating, Hannah Mai Neylon (0-1); Maeve Clancy; Subs: Aisliing Costelloe (0-1) for H. Keating; Ria Meaney for E. Griffin; Ciara O’Malley for A. Cotter.

39

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

Sixty minutes separate sides from county final

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

SEMI-FINAL ACTION in the TUS Clare senior and intermediate football championships are the focus of this weekend’s GAA action. Éire Óg’s quest to win a senior championship double is well and truly alive after their hurlers qualified for the a first decider since 2022 but they must navigate the challenge of Lissycasey as they bid to record back to back titles.

After emerging from an extra-time win over Ennistymon, Cratloe renew rivalries with St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield for the second time in this year’s championship.

On Saturday, Éire Óg and Lissycasey square off at 16:30 in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg. The sides clashed in last year’s championship with the Ennis outfit prevailing on a score of 2-17 1-6 in the third round. Shane Daniels’ side overcame St Joseph’s Miltown to make the semi-finals with Lissycasey managed by Aiden ‘Horse’ Moloney accounting for St Breckans.

Billed as strong favourites, Éire Óg will be looking to their experienced cohort of Ciaran Russell, Aaron Fitzgerald and Dean Ryan to anchor their defence with Ikem Ugwueru, Manus Doherty, Mark McInerney and Colm Walsh O’Loghlen setting the way further afield.

Ronan Lanigan made a welcome

l Lissycasey’s Daire Culligan in action Photo by Gerard O’Neill return to championship action for the quarter-finals, last season’s Cuthe Townies when introduced as a sack Cup champions have yet to substitute in the quarter-finals and show a full sixty minute display in he will be available for selection to their four games thus far. get a first-start in this year’s run.

Both Mikey O’Neill and AarWalsh O’Loghlen has been deal- on Griffin tasted semi-final defeat ing with a hamstring injury but it with the hurlers of Kilmaley and is not expected to keep him out of Ballyea last weekend but came the tie. “Ronan has been carrying through their respective games unan injury for a while, he is back do- scathed. While Griffin was one of ing a good bit of training, he has an Clare’s top performers under Peter awful lot of work done in the last Keane, he has yet to catch fire in few weeks,” manager Daniels told this year’s Clare SFC and is a poThe Clare Echo. tential match-winner on his day.

Lissycasey led by three-time Captain Ryan Griffin, Matt Shea at Clare SFC winning manager Aiden midfield, Darren Keane, Daire Cul‘Horse’ Moloney will need to pro- ligan, Conor Finnucane, Darragh duce their greatest performance of Killeen and Shane Griffin will be the year to cause an upset. While called upon to give big displays for they were comfortable winners in the 2007 champions.

Despite a high amount of injuries and both Cathal McInerney and Jamie Moylan effectively playing on one leg in extra time, Cratloe still managed to find a way to win which has them in a very strong place mentally ahead of Sunday’s semi-final against St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield which commences at 14:30 in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg. The sides faced off in the third round when Enda Boyce’s late kick sealed the win for Cratloe.

It was also a dramatic quarter-final win for Doora/Barefield who knocked out Kilmurry Ibrickane with a one point win.

David Collins, Tommy Rooney and Eoin Carey all missed the quarter-final for Cratloe and of the trio, Rooney is the most likely to potentially feature this weekend.

With the experience of Kevin Harnett, Podge Collins, Sean Collins, Cathal McInerney, Diarmuid Ryan and Liam Markham in their ranks, Colm Collins is still able to call on quality players.

Doora/Barefield have major concerns on the fitness of Clare defender Fionn Kelleher. He was forced off with a hamstring injury in their quarter-final and missed out on the relegation final for the club’s senior hurlers last weekend.

His fitness will be assessed closer to throw-in and his availability is likely to have a big bearing on the outcome. Tom Curran was introduced as a substitute in the second half of

their quarter-final and is likely to have a similar role.

Tom O’Brien will man the goals for The Parish who will be confident of reaching a first final since 2012 but are slight underdogs.

Donagh Vaughan’s side will also be relying on Joe Rafferty, Tom McDonald, Odhran O’Connell, James Curran and Darragh O’Shea.

Meanwhile, both Clare IFC semi-finals are scheduled for Saturday. Corofin and Clondegad meet in Clarecastle at 13:00 while Hennessy Memorial Park in Miltown Malbay is the setting for Banner vs Cooraclare at 15:00.

Jamie Malone will be flying back from the Middle East for Corofin who are looking to bounce back from the disappointment of their relegation from the senior hurling ranks.

Clondegad have four wins from as many games but James Murrihy’s side have yet to be tested to their limit in the championship.

It will be a first-ever intermediate championship semi-final for Banner who possess a very lively attack which includes Shane Meehan, Thomas Meenaghan, Seán McMahon and Ronan Kilroy. They’re coming up against the Martin Daly managed Cooraclare who can call on one of the top footballers in the county, Brian McNamara along with former Clare senior Pearse Lillis.

Clare Cascaders claim Killilea Cup CLARE CASCASDERS claimed the prestigious Killilea Cup in Annaghdown on Saturday.

A gruelling round-robin tournament saw the Ennistymon-based outfit record three hard-fought victories and a single point loss in their four hotly contested games against Annaghdown Vikings, Athlone BC, Glasnevin BC, and the Shannon Jets.

Their narrow defeat was not enough to deny them some silverware as their preparation over the summer months ensured they claimed the Killilea Cup. On the day there was outstanding performances from Graham Sheehy, Ciarán Harrington, and Cillian Devitt who caused havoc from both inside and outside the arc, while the Cascaders’ big men Mattie Kinch, Mikey Rouine, and Roma Byrne dominated the boards and finished powerfully.

Captain Rouine, a well-known barber in Ennistymon, first started with the Cascaders as a ten-year-old and he accepted the Killilea Cup on behalf of the squad.

Head Coach Stephen Leigh praised his players’ effort and energy throughout the tourna-

ment and now turns his focus to the challenge of the Basketball Ireland Development League.

“Competing regularly with the best teams in the country is not just possible, it’s essential for Clare basketball. We’ve got a hugely talented squad that has been successful in Clare and North Munster, and now we’re ready to test ourselves nationally. This is just the beginning.”

That national test begins in earnest on October 5th, when the Cascaders host theLimerick Lions at Ennistymon Community School in their League debut. With fixtures lined up against National League Clubs from Ballina, Sligo, Limerick, and near-neighbours Shannon, the season promises edge-of-your-seat action and an opportunity for basketball fans to rally behind this team.

PICTURED: Clare Cascaders Senior Mens Basketball Team - Winners of the Denis Killilea Cup in Annaghdown on Saturday, September 20th. Back Row (Left to Right): Coach Stephen Leigh, Cillian Devitt, Liam Murtagh, Derry Duncan, Mathew Kinch, Roma Byrne. Front Row (Left to Right): Brendán Monaghan, Ciarán Harrington, Michael (Captain), Cathal McInerney, Cian Fahy.

40

Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

SPORT

Record entry at Ennis Club Championships Ennis Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club recently held it's 2025 Tennis Club Championship. A huge entry of 153 participants entered the two week event which consisted of singles, doubles and mixed doubles competitions.

The winners & finalists were: Men's Singles A n Ciarán O' Brien def Justin Gleeson Ladies Singles A n Sarah McSwiney def Dhanya Pillai Men's Doubles A n Stuart Holly & David Flanagan def Ciarán O' Brien & Chris Rudland Ladies Doubles A n Tara O'Loughlin & Michelle McMahon n Dhanya Pillai & Caoimhe Collins

lPRESENTATION: (from top) Ladies C doubles winners Deirdre O’Neill & Aine Dervan collect their trophy from club captain Dervilla Moloney; Mens Doubles B winners Barry Ward & Liam Mockler; Mens Doubles C winners Jack Devitt Stubbs and Lorcan Beirne; Photos by Mikey Reid

Mixed Doubles A n Stuart Holly & Roisin Moore def Ken Breen & Anne-Marie Darcy Men's Singles B n David Enright def Gavin Collins Men's Doubles B n Liam Mockler & Barry Ward def Sean Moloney & Damian Noonan Ladies Doubles B nTeresa Curtin & Jess Dagnall def Aine Jones & Nicola Tassie Mixed Doubles B n Liam Mockler & Aine Jones def Noel Brodie & Aoife Collins Men's Singles C n Darragh Howley def Matthew Davenport Ladies Singles C n Aine Dervan def Deirdre O' Neill Men's Doubles C n Lorcan Beirne & Jack Devitt Stubbs def

l(clockwise from above) Tara O’Loughlin and Michelle McMahon are all smiles; Mens Singles C winner Darragh Howley (inset); Mens Singles A champion Ciarán O’Brien; Mixed B runners-up Aoife Collins & Noel Brodie in action; Ladies B doubles winners Teresa Curtin & Jess Dagnall; Ladies C singles winner Aine Dervan; the Mixed Doubles A winners Roisín Moore & Stuart Holly Photos by Mikey Reid & Kathy Howe

Gareth Ruane & Joseph McNamara Ladies Doubles C n Aine Dervan & Deirdre O' Neill def Niamh Barry & Katie McDonnell Mixed Doubles C n Lorcan Beirne & Michelle Holly def Gianni Bambino & Martina Zavodska Men's Novice Singles D n Matthew Davenport def João Tudella Ladies Novice Singles D n Denise O' Connell def Katie McDonnell Ladies Novice Doubles D n Patricia O' Gorman & Karen Quinn def Joanna Byrne & Tonya Golding Mixed Novice Doubles D n James Cloney & Ann Marie Cloney def

Brendan Daly & Emer Merriman A spokesperson from Ennis LTBC told The Clare Echo, “A huge thank you to our main championship sponsor Ennis Dental Health Centre for your continued support, and also to Liscannor Flagstone Quarries.

“We also ran a very successful raffle over the two weeks. Amazing prizes were sponsored by local businesses; Moloney Fuels, Taylors Bar, Dan McInerney & Sons, Patrick Bourke Menswear, TRUTH, The Snackshack, Blackbird, Brogans, TALE Security, Mangans Wholesalers, Youtherapies, Holly’s Haven Pharmacy, as well as other individual sponsored prizes.”

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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lSUCCESS: (clockwise from left) Mixed Doubles B winners Liam Mockler & Aine Jones; Mens B runners-up Damien Noonan & Sean Moloney with Club Captain Dervilla Moloney; Jeremy Ah Chong serves at dusk; Gavin Collins and Ryan Colleran embrace after the Mens B quarter final, one of the games of the tournament; Ronan Foley competes in the A Singles; Men’s B Singes winner David Enright; Womens A winner Sarah McSwiney with runner up Dhanya Pillai before the pair took to the court.

All photos by Mikey Reid & Kathy Howe

SPORT

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Shannon end 45 year wait & win Jimmy Bruen Shield

by Caomh Breen Allen news@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Golf Club celebrated their first All-Ireland pennant in 45 years when the Clare side were crowned AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield champions at Mannan Castle on Saturday.

There was also joy for Gort, who added the AIG Women’s Minor Foursomes title to last week’s Intermediate success in a remarkable seven days for the Galway club.

Shannon booked their place in the final after defeating Leinster South champions Lucan 3–1 in Friday’s semi-final. In Saturday’s decider they faced fellow Munster side Clonakilty in a tight contest that saw the Clare men come from behind to secure victory and end a long wait for All-Ireland glory.

Clonakilty were first to put a point on the board as Leo Hassett and 14-year-old Odhran Scully claimed a 3&2 win over Keith Buckley and Joe Finlay.

Shannon responded quickly, however, with Dermot O’Donoghue and

Seán Óg Murnane levelling the tie by the same margin.

With the contest finely balanced, Michael Corry and Adam McInerney Hynes nudged Shannon in front before the decisive moment came on the 16th green as Luke Hegarty chipped from a bunker and Derek Sweeney calmly holed the putt to secure the winning point and spark jubilant celebrations.

“These guys are incredible, the players, the panel, the backroom staff and everyone back in Shannon,” said Shannon team captain Colm Hanley.

“We have a hugely supportive club and everyone who put everything in, from the office to pro shop, the whole lot, we’re just blessed and this is the first time we have ever won this so as a club we are going to celebrate and enjoy it, that’s for sure”.

“It’s not just the lads here today it’s literally for the whole club and everyone deserves credit for this because it doesn’t happen by itself,” he added.

The celebrations continued at the

side carried their form into the final against Ballycastle.

Olive Mulcair and Ena Furey put the first point on the board with a 3&2 win before Teresa Herbert and Sinead Collins, one of the stars of last week’s win, delivered a 6&4 success to extend the advantage.

With only a half point required, Patricia Skehill, Evelyn Fahey, Patricia Reddy and Fran O’Reilly ensured the margin was beyond doubt, sealing back-to-back All-Ireland titles for the Galway club.

“It was a great win. We started this campaign last June and they have been very committed, all the girls,” said Gort team captain Anne-Marie Craddock. “I am so honoured for our club, this is our second All-Ireland in a week so it’s just amazing. We’re delighted and we’re going to celebrate now”.

Monaghan club later in the afternoon when Gort completed a stunning double by winning the AIG Women’s Minor Foursomes, just a week after

lifting the Intermediate Foursomes crown at Athlone.

Having beaten Holywood 3–1 in their semi-final, the Connacht

Neville & Considine win Masters finals

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

EILIS NEVILLE emerged as the winner of the ladies masters final in Woodstock while David Considine claimed the men’s masters final in Ennis.

WOODSTOCK GC: The ladies Masters final, sponsored by Heaslips on O’Connell Street, Ennis, took place at the weekend when Eilis Neville emerged as the winner with 40 points.

She was followed by Mary McNamara with 37 points, Mags Nash with 29 points, Kathleen McEnery with 29, along with Patsy Nugent and Siobhan Maher (both also 29).

In the men’s masters final the winner was Cathal O’Sullivan (8) with 42 points while the gross was won by Kieran Cunnane (0) with 35.

Category 1 (+ to 10) was won by Johnny Clune (6) with 40 points from Noel Mulcahy (10) with 38 points.

Category 2 (11 to 18) was won by Pat O’Brien (14) with 40 points from Ken O’Shaughnessy (12) with a similar score while category 3 was won by Mark O’Dwyer (23) with 34 points.

Winners in the 2’s competition were Tony

Coote (6th hole), Paul Sherlock (6th hole) and Cathal O’Neill (14th hole).

The overall winner of Woodstock masters order of merit is Frank Landy.

In the Michael Cashman cup Woodstock lost out 2/3 to Kanturk in Nenagh on Sunday.

The team was managed

by Johnny Clune and Brendan Neylon and the panel included Colin Higgins & Jarlath Fahy; Gerdie Griffey & Kieran Patton, Brian Kilker & Oisin Kelly; Frank Mc Enery & Liam McInerney; Michael O’Brien & Barry Keane; Tony Coote & Jack Duffy; Kieran Browne & Cathal Kelly.

The season’s final outing in the Holly’s Haven Pharmacy mixed scramble took place on Thursday last when the winners were Johnny Clune, Marie McNamara and Vinny McInerney with 24.5. They won from Paul Sherlock, Patsy Nugent and Neilus Butler with 27.5. In third place with 28.4 were Ross Kenny, Edel Clune and Liam O’Connor.

DROMOLAND GC: The weekend competition was the Fred O’Flanagan memorial, a v par competition which was won by David McNamara with 3up from Billy O’Ma-

hony who had a similar score. Brian Hickey with 2 up was third.

Brian Shally with 2 up won the gross while the winner in the 20 and over handicap category was Michael O’Shea who was level.

In the ladies 18 hole stableford competition the winner was Mairéad Bergin with 37 points from Mairead Toomey with 35 with Joan Ryan in third place with 33.

Linda Kochhar with 18 points won the 9 hole competition from Katrina O’Neill with 17 points.

EAST CLARE: The ladies Wednesday competition was won by Brid Hayes, Mary Collins and Teresa Bradley from Evelyn Skehan, Marie A. Kelly and Mary Stritch with third place filled by Breda O’Loghlin, Connie McKenna and Mary Hogan.

Winners of the mixed scramble were Flannan McMahon, Connie McKenna and Jim Lynch.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The men’s masters final at Ennis, a golfer of the year event, was won

by Michael Kearney (13) with 66, one ahead of Cian O’Nolan (19). John Considine (15), also with 67 was third followed by Ollie Kennelly (25) with 68.

The golfer of the year

competition was played over 10 competitions and the race for the title was as competitive as ever. The 2025 winner is David Considine who showed outstanding consistency over the summer.

The ladies masters competition, sponsored

by County Boutique, an 18 hole stroke event, was won by Peggy Costello (24) with 71 nett and she was two ahead of Rose Enright (19) with Joan Murphy (31) in third place with 75. The gross was won by Ann A Gallery (10) with 89.

The masters ladies 9 hole competition was won by Margaret Flanagan (19) with 21 points from Carmel Verling (12) with 20 points with third place filled by Celia Reilly (18) with 18 points.

Last week’s men’s singles stableford competition was won by Enda Burns (21) with 39 points.

The senior ladies competition last week was won by Carmel Verling, Mary Kearns and Eileen Holly from Brid Cunningham, Eileen Daly, Ann McMahon and Judith Brassil.

In the weekly ladies competition, an 18 hole singles strokeplay event for the September medal, the winner in the sil-

ver division was Mary Lenihan (16) with 77 nett, one better than Ann A Gallery (10).

In the bronze division the winner was Sinéad O’Sullivan (40) with 75 nett from Nuala Corry (25) with 77 nett.

The overall winner in the 9 hole singles stableford competition was Mary Curley (28) with 20 points while the divisions were won by Carmel Verling (12) with 17 points, Patricia O’Reilly (16) with 17 points and Bernadette Morrissey (22) also with 17 points.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was a 3 ball scramble which was won by Noel Connellan, Paul Higgins and Padraic Larkin with 44.1 from Tony Lawler, Gerry Fitzmaurice and Tim Kelly with 47.3. In third place, also with 47.3 were J.K Considine, Fintan McEvoy and Joe Dilleen.

Ennis recorded a well-deserved victory in the Burren Cup semi-final, defeating Dromoland, 3.5 to 0.5. The final will take place at Oughterard Golf Club on Saturday, October 4, where Ennis will face the winners of the Galway Bay v Oughterard semi final.

GORT GOLF CLUB: Friday’s open 18 hole singles stableford com-

petition, sponsored by Ward & Burke, was won

by Danny Losty (16) with 38 points.

The weekend 18 hole singles stableford competition, sponsored by Eddie Lynch Electrical was won by Sam Kinsella (40) with 43 points.

Category 1 was won

by Eamon Higgins (7) with 41 points, category 2 by Derek Kinsella (14) with 35 points and category 3 by Pat Fogarty (25) with 34 points. The gross was won by Joe Moran (0) with 34 points.

FANNY O’DEAS SOCIETY: The Fanny O Deas society had their annual two-day golf trip to Westport at the weekend where they played both Ballinrobe and Castlebar golf Clubs.

The weather was excellent for the outing to Ballinrobe which is celebrating being open 130 years this year and considered to be one of the finest championship parkland courses in Ireland.

Winner on the day was Pat Delap from Mark Cottam with third place filled by Brendie McMahon. They were followed

by Paddy Cororan, Noel O Shea and Jim Carmody in fourth, fifth and sixth places.

In Castlebar the mem-

bers had to contend with more difficult weather conditions Winners of the scramble here were Declan Kelly, Alan Carmody, Brendie McMahon and Pat Delap from Gerry Lernihan, Peter O’Leary, Daniel Delap and Paddy Corcoran.

The society’s next outing will be on Saturday week, October 4, to Shannon at 1.30p.m.

KILDYSART GOLF SOCIETY: Kildysart golf society captain Cyril Kelly held a very successful and enjoyable captain’s day event in Westport on Saturday where Mark Cottam was the winner with 34 points from Tony McMahon with 31. In third place, also with 31 points was Mike Hogan followed by Liam Browne with 30.

Colin Garry with 18 points won the front 9 while David Clancy won the back 9 with 17 points.

Noel Garry won the longest drive while the guests category was won by Tony Mannion with 32 points.

The player of the year standings have changed again, with at least five players in with a shout of winning the title. It will be all to play for in Killarney in October.

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

To place a notice email kieran@clareecho.ie

PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL RATHLAHEEN SOUTH, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE, V95 YD21 Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www. foudyconsulting.ie.

Intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Eamon & Jennifer Meehan for permission to (a) construct front and side extensions (b) convert attic space to accommodation including roof lights and rear dormer windows. (c) carry out internal renovations and external fenestration changes together with all site development works and services at the above address.

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

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee with-

in the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL GLASCLOON TLD, DOONBEG, CO. CLARE, V15 KV27 Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www. foudyconsulting.ie.

Intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Brian & Lynda Croke for permission to (a) construct rear extensions and carry out fenestration changes to existing dwelling house, (b) construct linked garage (c) retain foundations and complete construction of potting shed (d) construct extension to existing shed comprising of a family room (e) relocate existing wastewater treatment system, together with all ancillary site development works and services at the above address.

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

EASY TO USE SERVICE

Planning

NOTICES ning authority during its public opening hours.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL Take notice that O&M Asset Holdings Ltd, intend to apply to the above authority for retention permission for the following development on property at Ballybrougan, Cratloe, Co Clare V95 C7P8. Retention permission is applied for a rear roof dormer box window and retention permission of 2 no box windows clad in standing seam instead of red cedar.

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 planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CAPPAGH SOUTH, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE Take notice that Jason & Elaine Kenneally intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to demolish an existing extension to the rear of an existing cottage and to construct a new extension to the rear of the cottage along with alterations to the existing cottage, the construction of a new domestic garage and permission to replace the existing sewage treatment system along with 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 RHYNAGONNAUGHT, DOONBEG, CO. CLARE Take notice that Brian Dillon intends 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.

Case No: D:LIC:ENIS:2025:009781 Courts Licence No: LIC-12029 Revenue Licence No: ENP0055 An Chúirt Dúiche Licensing (Ireland) Act 1833 Section 6 Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960 Section 29 The District Court NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 The Halfway House Pub Limited – Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant The Halfway House Pub Limited of Clare Road, Ennis, Clare intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Ennis District Court on the 26-Sep2025 at 10:30 for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence (7-Day Ordinary) licence attached to the premises known as The Halfway House and situate at Clonroad More, Ennis, Clare in the court area and district aforesaid.

Dated 18 Sep 2025 Signed Berwick Solicitors LLP Solicitor for Applicant 22 Mainguard Street, Galway To the Garda Superintendent, at CT.Clare.CE@Garda.ie , Ennis Garda Station, Abbey Street, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83 To the Fire Officer, at fireoff@ clarecoco.ie , Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 CD74 To the Health Service Executive Official, at peholcare@hse.ie To the District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

PLACE YOUR PLANNING NOTICES WITH THE CLARE ECHO CALL 065 671 9021 EMAIL KIERAN@CLAREECHO.IE

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Puzzle

Thursday, Feb 22, 2024 THE CLARE ECHO

Puzzle

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Thursday, Sep 25, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO

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

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46

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bruary 2024 Advertisement

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

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February 2024

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Sep 25, 2025

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

Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz 1.

What year did construction begin at Moneypoint?

1979 1994 1960

7.

The plant can clearly be seen from what other Irish county?

Kerry Cork Galway

2.

Moneypoint’s towers are the tallest free-standing structures in Ireland. How tall are they?

315m 218m 195m

8.

When is the plant expected to close?

2025 2030 2029

3.

In what year was the closure of Moneypoint announced?

2015 2019 2021

9.

4.

What fuel powers the plant?

Methane Coal Turf

At its peak, how much of Ireland’s electricity did Moneypoint produce?

30% 25% 40%

5.

Which authority is in charge of the plant?

ESB Eirgrid Bord Gáis

6.

How much did construction of the plant cost? £1bn £500m £700m

10. What is the closest town to Moneypoint?

Tarbert Kilkee Kilrush

Scan here to see what’s on

ANSWERS 1979 218m 2021 Coal ESB

£700m Kerry 2029 25% Kilrush

Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Movies to see this week

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

Last weeks Answers . Football missing . Sock different colour . Line missing on ground . GAA missing on jersey

. Crest missing on sleeve . O’Neills missing in shorts . Background of sign missing

Fans watching Éire Óg’s win over Kilmaley last weekend

Photo Gerard O’Neill

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