The Clare Echo 27/03/25

Penneys plan three-storey site in Ennis

Primark to seek permission at Harmony Row

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

RETAIL giant Primark, the company behind Penneys are to seek planning permission for a new retail outlet in Ennis town centre.

Originally earmarked as the anchor tenant for a planned Abbey Street car park development as part of the Ennis 2040 strategy which has since been paused, it now appears that is off the table as Primark are planning to establish the mooted retail store across the River Fergus.

Primark have detailed plans to construct a three-storey outlet on a 1.3 acre site in Harmony Row, Bank Place and Bindon St in Ennis.

The development will also involve the demolition of an existing derelict house and walls and the construction of a new over basement store with a total gross floor area of 3,500 square metres.

Currently, there is already a Penneys store situated at Ennis Shopping Centre on Francis Street.

THIS ISN’T HEATHROW!?

Airline staff arrive in Shannon Town after six flights were diverted to Shannon Airport that were due to land at Heathrow last Friday

Photo by Joe Buckley

The Clare Echo opens new offices

NEWSDESK

Email: editor@clareecho.ie or

news@clareecho.ie

SALES

Email: denise@clareecho.ie

or kieran@clareecho.ie or ross@clareecho.ie

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

This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Press Council’s Code of Practice. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Press Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1890 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie

Clare crew Tidy up well

Tidy Towns groups from around Clare were represented at the Regional Tidy Towns Awards in Ballincollig, Co Cork this week, including members from Clarecastle, Shannon and Ennis.

Pictured are (back row) Kay O’Shaughnessy, Christy Leyden, Dave Barry; (middle l-r) Andy Hogan, Patricia Frawley, Veronica Flynn, Teresa Hogan, Eileen Walsh; (front l-r) Gerry McMahon & Mary Howard. Awards were also given to Ballyvaughan, Kilrush, Tuamgraney, Inagh and Ruan. The national competition was launched this week and the closing date for receipt of entries is Monday, May 12, 2025.

New Ennistymon car park will have more than 42 spaces & could open this summer

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNISTYMON’s new car park will have more than 42 parking spaces according to hopeful officials in Clare County Council.

A date for the opening of this car park which has been in the offing for the past six years has not been committed to by the local authority but they are optimistic that works could be completed by the summer.

In 2022, planning permission was granted for the delivery of an off-street car park on Monastery Lane in Ennistymon. A consultant has been appointed by Clare County Council “to maximise efficiency” with the project to try accelerate its delivery and increase the amount of parking spaces.

Since planning was secured, efforts to rehouse bats located around Monastery Lane in Ennistymon delayed the project. The purchase of the car park was first discussed with former Director of Economic Development, Liam Conneally in December 2019, the delays stretching over five years plus have been labelled previously by Cllr Shane Talty (FF) as “embarrassing”.

Former Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling had given a commitment that the car park would be completed by the end of 2025.

Demolition works for the car park commenced in the final quarter of last year and are still ongoing.

At the March meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) requested an update on the car park’s completion. “Our next meeting is not until May, in the meantime we are going to have a huge influx to North Clare over the Easter and summer period”. He stressed, “we need to make provisions”.

Senior executive officer in the West Clare MD, Eoin Troy outlined that works were ongoing at present. “The demolition phase is nearly complete, once that is complete some ancillary works need to be completed. We have engaged a consultant to maximise efficiency in the location in terms of the amount of car spaces we will fit in the area”.

He said it was “subject to funding” but not-

ed they were hopeful of finishing the project this year.

Cllr Slattery then questioned if funding had already been provided to which Troy confirmed it had been secured for demolition works.

42 spaces are earmarked for the car park, Cllr Slattery said. The senior executive officer flagged that the external consultant was hired “to maximise efficiency and try get more” parking spaces. “We hope to have it finished by the summer but we can’t commit to a date,” he added.

Pics p16-17

Monastery Lane in Ennistymon

Heathrow shutdown shows risks of over-reliance on Dublin

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

HEATHROW’s shutdown which affected more than 270,000 passengers demonstrates the need to rethink Ireland’s aviation policy

London’s Heathrow Airport closed temporarily on Friday after a nearby fire caused a power outage. The grounding of all flights and shutdown of operations resulted in the disruption of more than £5.43m of goods, according to international delivery firm Parcelhero. More than 1,000 flights were cancelled.

Six flights were diverted to Shannon Airport. Flights from Toronto, Atlanta, Bridgetown Barbados, Boston, Orlando, and Newark originally scheduled to land at Heathrow were forced to divert to Shannon. Impacted passengers and airline crews were transported by bus to nearby hotels following their diversion.

CEO of the Shannon Airport Group, Mary Considine stated, “When Heathrow Airport came to a standstill last week due to a power outage after a fire at a nearby electrical substation, it wasn’t just passengers in Britain who were affected, it sent a very real warning to countries like Ireland about the danger of putting all our aviation eggs in one basket”. She noted that 86 percent of Ireland’s air traffic flows through Dublin at present, “that’s not just an imbalanced system, it’s an unsustainable one. In a globalised economy, where connectivity and resilience are vital, Ireland’s over-reliance on Dublin Airport is a significant risk to Ireland as an island nation. From national security to economic development and regional equality, the consequences of this imbalance are mounting. It’s time for an urgent review of national

aviation policy and for Ireland’s regional airports to take a more central role in a rebalanced, modern aviation strategy”.

Lissycasey native Considine said Ireland’s aviation policy “is outdated and no longer fit for purpose. Rather than growing in line with long-term national needs, it has developed without design, focused almost entirely on Dublin Airport, with little regard for the regional airports that could transform the country’s economic geography. Dublin’s role as our primary international gateway isn’t in question, but our current approach especially the debate over passenger caps - is a distraction from a much bigger issue. We are failing to harness the full power of aviation as a national driver of growth and resilience”.

Both Shannon and Cork Airports have the capacity for more passengers,

she flagged. She suggested “Shannon alone could accommodate an additional three million passengers annually, while Cork could add another two million. These are not speculative numbers - this capacity exists right now. What’s missing is the political will and the aviation policy to match. Using these airports more strategically could ease pressure on Dublin, reduce carbon emissions through shorter ground journeys, and help Ireland meet its decarbonisation targets. Shannon, for instance, is already working towards becoming a sustainable aviation fuel hub in line with the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce’s recommendations”.

Shannon is well positioned to drive a rebalance, she maintained. “It is the only airport in Europe, outside of Dublin, with full US Customs and Border Protection pre-clearance. It’s ideally sit-

uated to support investment in sustainable energy, offshore wind and green industrial development along the estuary. It’s reachable by uncongested roads and could be quickly connected to Limerick by rail, well ahead of the long-awaited MetroLink in Dublin. From a national security standpoint, however, the issue becomes even more urgent. Having 86 per cent of aviation traffic concentrated in one airport on an island nation especially one that plays host to a globalised, open economy is reckless. As international security concerns grow, and as Ireland’s strategic vulnerabilities come under increased scrutiny, decentralising aviation capacity must be part of our broader defence and resilience strategy. This is not just a matter of regional development or economic planning; it is also a political opportunity. The current programme for government

includes a commitment to review national aviation policy”. She added, “Ireland boasts a strong aviation infrastructure, but it’s being undermined by a lack of strategic vision. What’s standing in the way is not capacity, geography, or public support. What’s standing in the way is inertia. Now is the time for political leadership. A reset of aviation policy, centred on strategic investment in Shannon and Cork airports, could be a legacy achievement for this government - a visionary, transformative step that would unlock growth, sustainability and resilience for decades to come. We’ve seen what happens when a single airport fails. Let’s not wait for Dublin to have Ireland’s Heathrow moment. Let’s act, while we still can”

‘Only the swings are working at disgraceful Lahinch playground’ - Slattery

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LAHINCH playground’s present state is “disgraceful” with a North Clare councillor claiming that only the swings are functioning properly. Responsibility and maintenance for the Lahinch facility which is one of Munster’s busiest playgrounds will be taken over by the local authority once upgrade works are undertaken.

€165,000 was granted to Clare County Council in August for the refurbishment of Lahinch playground under the Community Recognition Fund 2024.

In a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) and Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) called on the Council “to urgently proceed with design and redevelopment works at Lahinch Playground”.

They outlined, “This needs to be completed in advance of the 2025 peak season. An ongoing management and maintenance plan then needs to be formalised for the facility”.

Senior executive officer in the West Clare MD, Eoin Troy stated, “The need for the redevelopment of the community Playground is acknowledged. The support and

engagement from local councillors is appreciated. At this stage a draft specification has been completed and engagement has taken place with the local playground committee. Funding is in place and works will commence when tender has completed. We are committed to ensuring that the project moves forward as quickly as possible and that a clear timeline is established”.

Efforts of the late Gerard Hartigan, his family and wide circle of friends in forging the community development of the playground fifteen years ago was recalled and commended by Cllr Talty. He said they “kept it open during huge setbacks and storm damage, I believe it is the busiest playground in Munster in terms of footfall and visitors so it is a critical piece of infrastructure”.

He said it was “envisaged” that the project would have gone out to tender in advance of Christmas to have some chance of being ready for the tourist season. “We’ve suffered from turbulence in changing roles,” he acknowledged while pointing out John Treacy had been overseeing the project but that it is now falling to the SEO.

“It needs to be a priority project,” Cllr Talty stressed. He said it had been sought to be complet-

ed prior to the 2025 season. Cllr Slattery also commended the role of Gerard Hartigan in starting the project. “The present state of the playground is disgraceful, except for the swings, that is all that is working”. He continued, “years ago they might have a few barrels or trunks for a see-saw because that would be better than what is there”. He noted damage sustained at the playground had resulted in expensive claims.

Previous requests for Lahinch Leisure Centre or the Council to take over the playground were referenced by Cllr Slattery. He recalled, “I approached committee members and they were delighted because they wanted out, they were resigning and then we got the grant, all of a sudden the committee came on board and they hadn’t resigned, I see ye have met the committee but they have resigned, it is my understanding that they no longer want to be there and I have an email to that effect. This work has to be done”.

Addressing the meeting, Troy said the current insurance in place was taken out by the local community group with the support of Cllr Talty. He said meetings took place last week with “a specialist

playground company” to keep the playground open for the summer.

“It will be upgraded,” he confirmed.

“It is currently not insured by Clare County Council, the intention as per the proposal approved by senior management last year, after the CRS funding is approved to an acceptable standard, the Council will take over the responsibility for the maintenance and management”.

He explained that the project was currently at design stage and they were “relying on specialist contractors”. Troy flagged, “the durability of equipment has to be taken into consideration because of its seaside location, only a finite amount

of companies can deal with this, we are at their behest, we expect to go through procurement shortly and we can have timelines after that”. He said, “the hope is to have this completed within 2025”.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) questioned if this deadline could be extended without losing any of the money granted for the works. The SEO confirmed the funding for Lahinch is set aside until 2026. A meeting with the planning department is required for the Kilrush playground, Cllr Lynch added.

Work is ongoing with the construction of the playground in Doonbeg, said Cllr Rita McInerney (FF)

l DISGRACEFUL: Lahinch Playground

22 SHANACLOON, SHANBALLA, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE,

TERROVANNON,

MILLS, CO. CLARE,

‘Innocent looking’ teenage boys charged with Sixmilebridge burglaries

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

AN ‘innocent looking’ 16-year old boy and an 18 year old teen have appeared in court in connection with a spate of alleged burglaries in the Sixmilebridge area of Clare.

At Ennis District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett told Shane Connors (18) of Woodview Heights, Sixmilebridge that “this is Netflix, duvet up to the eyes at night time and not moving from the house” as part of his daily curfew connected to his bail.

Judge Gabbett told Mr Connors who only turned 18 earlier this month, “it is very concerning to me that a person as young as yourself should be before the court on very serious charges”.

Judge Gabbett said, “This is a spate of alleged behaviour which should be of huge concern”.

He said, “If there was a bail objection I would find it hard to grant bail. You are on a very, very sticky wicket young man”.

Det Garda Colm Moriarty told Judge Gabbett that Mr Connors was under 18 at the time of the alleged offences.

Judge Gabbett told Mr Connors that he was not in the Children’s Court now and could be remanded in custody to the men’s prison at Limerick.

Both Mr Connors and a 16 year old Co Clare teen - who can’t be named as he is under the age of 18 - are

charged with Christmas Day burglaries in Sixmilebridge.

The two are both charged with on December 25th 2024 of trespassing on Jamie’s Butcher, Main Street, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare to attempt to commit theft contrary to the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001.

In the second burglary charge, the two are also charged on the same day of trespassing at Blush Beauty Salon, Main Street, Sixmilebridge and attempting to commit theft.

In his appearance at the Children’s Court in Ennis, the 16 year old accused told Judge Gabbett, “I was brought into the Garda Station and questioned for hours and hours and hours. They don’t have one bit of proof against anything at all - they are just trying to pin these on me when it is not me”.

Solicitor for the teen, Tara Godfrey said that the CCTV in the case is blurry and there are no admissions by her client.

Judge Gabbett said that the 16year old is exposed to extraordinary serious charges.

Gardaí told Judge Gabbett that there is no bed free in Oberstown Detention Centre in Dublin until Tuesday.

Judge Gabbett said that he would remand the teen on detention if he was able to “but I have nowhere to put him”.

Judge Gabbett told the teenager that he is facing ten charge sheets in-

cluding five burglaries.

Judge Gabbett said that the teen came into court cross. He said, “I don’t know if it was because we stopped his gallop and or because he feels aggrieved because he feels wronged”.

Judge Gabbett told the 16 year old, “All bets are off. We are done”.

The teenager told Judge Gabbett that he will abide by all bail conditions.

Judge Gabbett told the 16 year old: “You look so innocent....By time you go out that door the ‘Men in Black’ light will have flashed in your eyes and you will have forgotten everything you have said in here”.

The teenager said, “I have been brought in by the Gardaí for things I didn’t even do. I didn’t do it.”

Judge Gabbett said that the teenager had spent a night in a cell at a Garda station and “that is the last place a 16 year old boy should be, you are a boy”.

The 16 year old is also charged with handling a stolen Toyota Landcruiser jeep on March 17th and stealing fuel to a value of €135 from Maxol Filling Station at Clareabbey, Ennis on the same date.

Separately Mr Connors is charged with the unauthorised taking of a vehicle from Glenn Leamy on March 11th at Station Court, Quin Rd, Ennis and the unauthorised taking of a vehicle belonging to a Martin Cronin on February 26th at the Oakwood Hotel, Shannon.

Mr Connor is also facing a bur-

glary charge on February 26th at the Oakwood Hotel, Shannon and on February 27th at Woodview Heights, Sixmilebridge having a carpet knife contrary to the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, 1990.

Judge Gabbett separately remanded Mr Connors on bail to April 16th to Ennis District Court and the 16 year old boy on bail to this Wednesday to Ennis District Court.

Penneys planning to build three-storey Ennis outlet

by Páraic McMahon & Gordon Deegan paraic@clareecho.ie

RETAIL GIANT

PRIMARK, the company behind Penneys are to seek planning permission for a new retail outlet in Ennis town centre.

Originally earmarked as the anchor tenant for a planned Abbey Street car park development as part of the Ennis 2040 strategy which has since been paused, Primark are now moving the mooted retail store across the River Fergus.

In a statutory notice published in The Clare Champion, Primark detailed plans to construct a three-storey outlet on a 1.3 acre site in Harmony Row, Bank Place and Bindon St in Ennis. The development will also involve the demolition of an existing derelict house and walls and the construction of a new over basement store with a total gross floor area of 3,500 square metres.

Plans also include a separate sub-station building, loading dock, delivery yard and new heavy goods vehicle entrance off Harmony Row. The plans also involve the alteration and re-arrangement of the existing carpark serving Bank of Ireland.

Permission to construct a new public riverside pedestrian walkway from Bank Place to the existing footbridge linking Abbey Street and Harmony Row. This involves new ramps, steps and modifications to the walkway of the existing pedestrian bridge including additions to present ramps and steps in Abbey Street car park and modifications to the bridge stone at Bank Place.

Primark already has a Penneys store in En-

nis which is located in the Ennis Shopping Centre. The company will await a decision from the planning authority before making any announcement on the future of their existing Ennis store.

The new store in Ennis is also part of Primark’s commitment to invest over €250m in Ireland over a ten-year period, which includes the development, relocation and/or refurbishment of its stores across the country.

A spokeswoman for Primark said, “We know how much our customers in Ennis would love a bigger Penneys store and we too would love to make that happen. We hope to share more details when we can”.

Penneys opened its first store on Mary St Dublin 56 years ago and with the addition of a new store at Bray last year it now has 38 stores across 21 counties in the Republic of Ireland. Penneys trades as Primark internationally and the retailer has over 450 stores across Europe and the US. Primark is also accelerating the pace of its international expansion, with ambitions to reach 530 stores by the end of 2026.

l PENNEYS: Harmony Row bridge Ennis

Tuamgraney’s Daly to be next Chief Executive of Clare County Council

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TUAMGRANEY native

Gordon Daly is to be the new Chief Executive of Clare County Council.

The Clare Echo has learned that that Daly was informed on Wednesday afternoon he was the successful candidate after getting the nod from the Public Appointments Service (PAS). He succeeds Pat Dowling who stepped down from the role in December after eight and a half years. Daly’s post as Chief Executive comes with a seven year tenure.

His proposed appointment will now go before a meeting of Clare County Council’s Corporate Policy Group (CPG) and subsequently a full meeting of the County Council where it is expected he will be ratified to the post at either the April or May sitting of the local authority.

A past pupil of Tuamgraney NS and Scariff Community College, Gordon has worked in local gov-

ernment all his life. He graduated from the University of Gloucestershire with a honours degree in countryside planning and he obtained a masters in town and country planning from Queens University Belfast. He started his career as a planner with Kerry County Council in 1997 before moving to Limerick County Council and then working as a senior executive planner in Clare from 2003 to 2005. In September 2005, he was appointed as a senior planner with Offaly County Council before returning to Clare County Council where he was a senior planner from January 2009 to August 2015. Upon leaving Clare, he became a Director of Service with Limerick and County Council. He currently holds the role of Deputy Director General & Director of Corporate Services, Human Resources & Organisational Development in Limerick. Since last April, he has been Deputy Chief Executive and

Deputy Director General.

During his near-decade in Limerick, Daly has been involved in the opening of the 40km Limerick Greenway which has received over 1.5m visitors since 2021 and the €5m Limerick Regional Athletics Hub in Newcastle West which officially opened in September 2023 and boasts world-class standard 8 lane synthetic athletics track, fully-floodlit associated track and field facilities with a surrounding walking path.

Economic, tourism, community and rural development have all come under his auspices in Limerick. He was also leading the Council’s team in preparing for the 2027 Ryder Cup which is to take place in Adare Manor. Daly has also been to the fore in Limerick City and County Council tackling derelict housing which has included the creation of a dedicated derelict properties team in 2017. In the past five years it has carried out

almost 8,000 inspections, served more than 2,800 notices and has or is planning to compulsorily acquire 300 properties in Limerick city and county.

Between 2019 and last year, Limerick City and County Council brought 326 properties back into use. It has a revolving fund where properties are put on the open market and the proceeds used to pay for compulsory purchases if the owners can be found. The vacant prop erty refurbishment grant (VPRG), also known as Croí Cónaithe, has been a big suc cess in tackling dereliction in Limerick, as in many other counties. There have been almost 500 applications re ceived, of which 350 have been approved.

Twelve towns and villag es in Limerick have been part of a pilot project from the Department of Housing which contributes €2.5m to proposals with the Council providing €800,000 from its own resources. Six

sites in Abbeyfeale are currently being brought back from dereliction using the fund.

Gordon is married to Feakle native Linda (nee O’Grady) and they have two children. His late father Peadar a native of Ballingarry played minor and senior hurling for Limerick and was a Garda in East Clare and his late mother Peggy was a native of Galway. Gordon’s grandfather Billy Daly

his late twenties due to a knee injury. At the age of 24, he was elected Chairman of Bodyke hurling club in 1999 aged twenty four. He assumed a second stint in the Chair in 2007 and during his reign the stand was built at the club grounds, ‘The Evicted’.

In June 2010, Gordon was appointed President of the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) becoming the first Clare man to hold the position and at the then age of thirty six was among the Institute’s youngest-ever presidents. He joined the IPI in

Locally, Daly is a former Chairman of East Clare Heritage and was a member of the Tuamgraney Development Association. He is also a keen amateur photographer.

Almost half of Cllrs miss 2040 briefing

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ALMOST HALF of Clare’s county councillors were absent for Monday’s behind closed doors workshop discussing the future of the Ennis 2040 strategy.

Fifteen county councillors failed to attend the briefing which was aimed to update all elected members on future plans for the economic and spatial strategy.

Among the absentees were Cllr Mary Howard (FG) and Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), both of whom have sat on the Board of Ennis 2040 DAC since its inception. The duo attended a similar briefing with Ennis MD councillors this month.

Only one of the seven councillors in the Shannon Municipal District were in attendance with Cllr Michael Begley (IND), Cllr John Crowe (FG), Cllr Rachel Hartigan (FF), Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG), Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) and Cllr James Ryan (SF) failing to attend the workshop.

Within the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Dinny Gould (IND), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) and Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) were not present.

All five councillors in the Killaloe Municipal District were present for the meeting with Interim Chief Operating Officer, Padraic McElwee.

County councillors who did turn

up for the briefing were Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), Cllr Pat Burke (FG), Cllr Pat Daly (FF), Cllr David Griffin (FF), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF), Cllr Pat Hayes (FF), Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG), Cllr Rita McInerney (FF), Cllr Paul Murphy (FG), Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF), Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF), Cllr Conor Ryan (FG), Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) and Cllr Shane Talty (FF).

Ennis based Cllr Baker Bashua said the briefing “overall was positive” and she praised the decision to include all councillors on the workshop.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan said he asked the Interim COO “to request the board of Ennis 2040 DAC to stop all proposed development s in the two town centre riverside carparks and drop construction including boardwalk planned for post office field. I also said to Carmel Kirby costly mistakes have happened that need to be acknowledged and move on constructively in the best interest of our town. Unless the mistakes are acknowledged I’m leaving this room with my fellow colleagues no better informed nor our concerns addressed than when we entered the room. We need to work together in a positive way so again to state we are trying to move on collectively and in a progressive manner”.

Prior to the briefing, Save Ennis Town wrote to all 28 county councillors requesting their support “to help ensure a ‘stop’, not a

‘pause’, to any further expenditure of time, energy and in particular public money on the unwanted and ill-conceived Clare County Council / Ennis 2040 DAC plans to build on two of the most significant public spaces in the town of Ennis.

“As well as providing much needed parking capacity vital to the sur-

with the intended purpose, as stated in the Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) at the time, to provide car parking facilities for the town, and not for the purposes of commercial development which is what Ennis 2040 DAC now propose.

“Currently, the two car parks contribute well over €333,000 in in-

vival of the town, the Abbey Street and Parnell Street car parks also serve as hugely important riverside civic spaces, as seen most recently during last week’s St.Patrick’s Day parade and evidenced by major public events over the years including Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann.

“It is worth noting that the town centre spaces on which these two car parks were developed were purchased by the Council in the 1960’s

come annually for use in the budget of Clare County Council. As a community based group, Save Ennis Town fully supports the future development of Ennis and acknowledges the many positive aspects of the Ennis 2040 proposals. However, we regard the plans for our two riverside car parks as misguided and potentially destructive to the social and economic fabric of our town,” the correspondence detailed.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, the Mayor of Clare, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan said Ennis 2040 was “the only show in town. We all know Ennis looks to be struggling even from a socialising place in the evening time it seems to be struggling from what I can see when I go to town, this is the only show in town and we want the betterment for the town, there’s a narrative knocking this but what is the alternative, sometimes what the DAC are trying to do and show is putting fire under people that have been sitting on properties for years and ignite them to get off their ass and do something, the DAC is helping the private sector of the town to get them moving. It is time to shut up with the negative talk of Ennis, there’s no winners in it, get on with it and let everyone work together, not a minority beating the drum all the time”.

He believed the councillors that missed the briefing “should have made an attempt to come”.

On the correspondence from Save Ennis Town, the Mayor said, “What is the difference between passed and stopped, there is no difference in my eyes, it is parked and leave it that way, if we need to revisit it then we will”. He added, “You can’t fill the bathwater until the baby is born. A lot of what the DAC was trying to do has spurred people on”.

Timmy Dooleys addresses IFA Aquaculture Conference & AGM in Limerick

by Páraic McMahon

AT THE IFA Aquaculture annual conference and AGM in Limerick last week, Timmy Dooley (FF), the Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, addressed key issues and highlighted his vision for the future of Irish aquaculture.

As the newly appointed Minister, Dooley, who oversees Fisheries and Marine across the Departments of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and Environment, Climate and Communications, spoke about the progress of the National Strategic Plan for Sustainable Aquaculture Development.

The Minister expressed his commitment to supporting the sus-

tainability of the aquaculture sector, noting, “I see how committed aquaculture operators are to ensuring both the economic and environmental sustainability of their sector.” He acknowledged the level of engagement he has received and looked forward to working closely with IFA Aquaculture and industry operators to advance the sector’s development. His address marked the first time he spoke directly to the Irish aquaculture community, showcasing his support for sustainable growth within the industry.

During his speech, Minister Dooley also addressed the progress of the National Strategic Plan, which has become the cornerstone policy document for Irish aqua-

culture. The plan outlines key objectives and actions for the sector through to 2030 and is supported by the current Programme for Government.

Finian O’Sullivan, the Chair of IFA Aquaculture, emphasized the need for significant investment and legislative reform to meet the goals set in the National Strategic Plan. He stressed that the sector cannot move forward without appropriate legislative changes and called for the creation of a stable framework to provide certainty for future generations of aquaculture operators.

Minister Dooley’s speech came at a critical time, as the aquaculture sector plays a vital role in the Irish economy, valued at €180 million. It

directly supports 1,800 jobs, with an additional 8,500 jobs in the wider seafood sector, contributing significantly to coastal communities. Throughout the day at the conference, various topics were discussed, including the impact of climate change on Irish aquaculture, EU aquaculture policy, and the relevance of the Programme for Government to the industry’s future. With the Minister’s direct involvement and the continued support from IFA Aquaculture, the future of Irish aquaculture looks promising, with a collective commitment to advancing the sector sustainably.

Minister Timmy Dooley (FF)

NOT IN ATTENDANCE: Cllr Mary Howard (FG) and Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF)

Pre-trial hearing set in Niall Gilligan assault case due to complainant’s age

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has directed that a pre-trial ‘ground rules’ hearing is to take place next month concerning the upcoming assault trial of former All Star and Clare All-Ireland winning hurler, Niall Gilligan due to the age of the complainant in the case.

At Ennis Circuit Court on Tuesday, Judge Francis Comerford has confirmed that the pre-trial ‘groundrules’ hearing is to take place before the assault trial which is anticipated to commence in July.

Counsel for the State, Sarah Jane Comerford BL told Judge Comerford: “We are eager to move the case on in light of the age of the complainant”.

In the case, Mr Gilligan (48) of Rosroe, Sixmilebridge denies the assault causing harm of a then 12 year old boy during an alleged ‘stick’ assault.

Judge Comerford today fixed dates for trials for the next criminal circuit court sessions in April/May and

the assault trial for Mr Gilligan is likely to get a trial date for the three week long criminal court sessions commencing on July 15th after the pre-trial hearing has been complete.

There are two juvenile witnesses in the case including the complainant and they require court intermediaries who are appointed to assist juvenile witnesses with the court process.

Ms Comerford (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) said that an intermediary assessment report has been completed in respect of the complainant in the case and the State is in the process of obtaining an intermediary assessment report of another prosecution witness who is also a minor.

Ms Comerford said with the two reports, “we wish to list the case for April 29th for a pre-trial ground-rules hearing”.

Patrick Whyms BL told Judge Comerford that he was representing Mr Gilligan and is instructed by solicitor, Daragh Hassett in the case.

Mr Gilligan denies the

charge of assault causing harm of the boy at the Jamaica Inn Hostel, Mt Ivers Rd, Sixmilebridge contrary to Section 3 of the Offences Against the Person Act on October 5th 2023.

Mr Gilligan was not present in court for the mention of the case today and was not required to attend.

The DPP had initially directed that the case be heard in the district court but Judge Alec Gabbett declined district court jurisdiction in the case after hearing an outline of the State case against Mr Gilligan last July.

In court last July, State solicitor, Aisling Casey told the court that one of the injuries the boy was treated for in the aftermath of the alleged ‘stick assault’ by Mr Gilligan was a fractured left hand.

Solicitor for Mr Gilligan, Mr Hassett told the court last July that the sequence of events set out by the State is not accepted by his client and “there is a complete dispute in relation to what is alleged to have happened here”.

As part of the State case, a medical report and pho-

tos of the boy’s injuries were handed into court in July and Judge Gabbett said at the time, “I am looking at photographs here and what I am seeing is a child with significant injuries over and above what the district court should be dealing with so I am going to refuse jurisdiction”.

Last July, Ms Casey confirmed that both juvenile witnesses will give evidence by video link in the circuit court.

Mr Gilligan was a star forward for the senior Clare hurling team which defeated Tipperary to win the 1997 All-Ireland Final and was named an All-Star in 1999.

The Sixmilebridge clubman also won two Munster titles with Clare and multiple honours with his club over a long, distinguished hurling career.

Judge Comerford further remanded Mr Gilligan on bail on the same terms to Ennis Circuit Court on April 29th.

First

Clare County Council invites final comments on the Draft Ennis Integrated Urban Strategy (Heritage-Led), developed under the THRIVE Town Centre Heritage Revival Scheme. The strategy supports a funding bid to restore and bring back into use a heritage building in Ennis town centre—The Cloister—for adaptive reuse.

The full public notice, the draft strategy, details on where to view the document in person, and an option to provide feedback are all available at: https://yoursay.clarecoco.ie/thrive-ennis or scan the QR code opposite.

submit your feedback by 16:00 on Thursday, 3rd April.

Niall Gilligan

Photo by Joe Buckley

Health Minister delays on second ED for Mid-West decision until HIQA review Johnston family to meet CEO to seek statutory

NO COMMITMENTS will be made by the Minister for Health on the provision and location of a second emergency department in the Mid-West until a HIQA review is completed in May.

Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll McNeill (FG) visited the University Hospital Limerick (UHL) on Thursday where she visited a 96 bed-block which is nearing completion and is due to open in September.

UHL has the worst record for overcrowding in the country with renewed calls for the addition of a second emergency department in the region.

Carroll McNeill’s predecessor Stephen Donnelly (FF) last year tasked HIQA with considering this case , in the context of the population changes in recent years and the pressures on UHL.

An interim report from HIQA was published last week but the final report is required before any commitment will be given, the Minister said. “The first thing is that I published everything that I got. The second thing is that it’s an interim report done by HIQA which is really an update on the processes that are going about, we always expected a final report in May and I still expect a final report in May”.

When asked what different findings will be provided in the space of two months considering HIQA have been preparing the report since last May, the Minister commented, “I’m not going to criticise HIQA which is an independent body with its own processes. I’m simply asking them to do their job and report to me in May and I look forward to receiving their report in May”.

She added, “At the end of the day HIQA are engaged in a process about assessing capacity in the region and not whether or not there should be a second emergency department that is an independent committee. I am a new Minister for Health and I respect the fact that they are going through a body of work which I respect. We published an interim report yesterday which goes through that work and I expect their full report in May. I have spoken to public representatives from around the area about the importance of that report. I am looking forward to receiving it and I will be guided by the work that is in that but my concern for the Mid-West

is about growing capacity generally, it is not just about an ED, it’s about the whole system, making sure that the community supports are there making sure that the bed capacity is there in hospitals, making sure that we for example have a surgical hub next year that we can get the funding this year to build an elective hospital to get surgical operations that are predictable that are not interrupted by emergencies in acute hospitals”.

No decisions will be made until this process is concluded, she emphasised. “I really do respect the HIQA process and that is not to say that I don’t have strong opinions about broadening the capacity here I just don’t want to be determinative about anything to enable them to do their independent process, I’m looking at infrastructure nationwide we’re making a very strong case in the national development plan review to get serious money to build four elective hospitals, a new national maternity hospital and support a capital plan that really looks at a broad expansion of infrastructure so I am absolutely preparing for that and I see my the HIQA report in my timeline and that the infrastructure team and the Department of Health and the plan in how we would do this and deliver this efficiently so we are looking at every aspect that we can in relation to expanding infrastructure more broadly and more particularly in this region.

The Minister stated. “Increasing bed capacity is so important. I want to just describe the emergency department if you think of it a bit like an airport we’ve people arriving and they arrive all the time, many people will be discharged from an emergency department about 75% of people who come to an emergency department will be seen and they don’t need to be admitted to the hospital.”

When asked by The Clare Echo if she had confidence in the management of UL Hospitals Group, the Minister stated, “I think this new management team have done an extremely good job, taking over setting a different vision and I can see that difference here and I do have confidence and I think that Bernard’s perspective in this hospital in a time of great difficulty in this period is particularly important because he has been very vocally critical about the hospital and its management team I think we are seeing something quite different now.

by

AOIFE JOHNSTON’s family are to hold their first meeting with Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll McNeill (FG) today (Thursday).

Carol and James Johnston, Aoife’s parents are to meet the Health Minister and will also in a separate meeting sit down with HSE CEO, Bernard Gloster. The Shannon family are seeking a statutory inquiry into the teenager’s death at University Hospital Limerick (UHL) after she was left waiting thirteen hours for vital treatment for sepsis in an emergency department overrun with patients.

Her death in December 2022 has led to two inquiries and disciplinary proceedings against six senior staff over the circumstances of her final hours. Her family believe only a full statutory inquiry will provide them with answers.

Members of the Johnston family wrote to the Health Minister through their solicitor last month. They will separately meet the chief executive of HSE, Bernard Gloster, on the same day, the first time they have taken up his offer to sit down with the family.

The family have been pushing for a statutory inquiry as they believe previous inquiries have failed to provide accountability, and conflicts of evidence over measures that could have mitigated overcrowding on the night she died remain unresolved.

Speaking in UHL on Thursday, Minister Carroll McNeill said “What happened to Aoife was unforgiveable and it was completely wrong and avoidable and it’s really important that we say that really, really clearly. As to what happens next, I’m very aware that there are disciplinary processes happening within the HSE, it’s very important that we enable those disciplinary processes we don’t often see direct disciplinary process and I think that’s important but with every respect to your good self I’d like to meet them before speaking any further”.

The solicitor for the family, Damien

Tansey, said that they will be urging the minister to hold a “meaningful” inquiry into Aoife’s death. “Inquiries to date have been lamentable in terms of accountability and identifying the problems that arose in the emergency department,” he said. “We asked the Minister for a meeting to discuss a statutory inquiry. This meeting is in response to that request. We also wrote to Bernard Gloster, also seeking an inquiry of a kind that will be meaningful and provide answers,” he added Aoife’s parents, James and Carol, told their daughter’s inquest that she died a “horrible death” at UHL on December 19, 2022. The Lim-

Woman left waiting four

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A WOMAN was left waiting for an ambulance on a roadside for nearly four hours in Doonbeg this week.

For approximately four hours, the woman was left sitting in a tent provided by the Fire Brigade in scenes which have been labelled “completely unacceptable” by elected representatives.

At approximately 11:30 on Monday morning, a single vehicle road traffic accident occurred outside Doonbeg. An ambulance was requested at 11:40, a helicopter arrived on site at 14:45 and an ambulance

followed at 15:00. The patient departed the scene at 15:20 in the ambulance after she was assessed and found to not have been seriously injured which prompted the air ambulance to be stood down.

Emergency services at the scene were informed after speaking to the National Ambulance Service call centre that an ambulance was seventy five minutes away yet a further call resulted in them receiving information that there was no resource available.

Clare TD, Joe Cooney (FG) said he was “shocked by the facts” and the timeline of events. In correspondence issued to the Head of the NAS in the Mid-West, Deputy Cooney called it “an entirely unacceptable situation. Yet again, we have an example of how the system is not working properly for the communities that live on the periphery of the county” He added, “I also understand that a member of Kilkee Fire Brigade qualified as an EMT was unable to provide appropriate assistance due to an issue with the local authority and risk management or insurance. While this is obviously not

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

lJOHNSTON FAMILY MEETING: Minister Carroll

l Health Minister Jennifer Carroll McNeill (FG)

Health Minister & HSE inquiry into Aoife’s death Aoife’s

(right ) visiting 96 bed block at UHL

erick coroner declared Aoife’s death a medical misadventure following her inquest in April.

An internal HSE review of Aoife’s death found that sepsis protocol was not followed, the emergency department was grossly overcrowded and understaffed, and an escalation protocol that would have eased the pressure that night was not implemented.

An external independent review by Frank Clarke — commissioned by Bernard Gloster — found that Aoife’s death was “almost certainly avoidable”.

However, he was precluded from making findings of facts, and conflicts of evidence between staff about the failure to implement the escalation protocol to ease overcrowding that night were never resolved Gloster, who has repeatedly apologised to the Johnston family for Aoife’s death, has previously defended Mr Clarke’s inquiry. He confirmed last year that on foot of Mr Clarke’s report, six members of staff were facing disciplinary proceedings, with four on administrative leave.

hours for ambulance

an issue for the NAS to deal with, it does highlight how two arms of the state have the resources between them to complement each other and to provide good quality emergency cover for more isolated communities”.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) described the situation as “utterly unacceptable” and one which has “the potential to be life-threatening”. She said, “The ambulance personal are amazing people, responding

with professionalism and care when I have encountered them myself. They are overworked and under resourced. However, this response time is not just inadequate, it is dangerous.”

“This isn’t the first time, and sadly, it won’t be the last. We in West Clare pay the same taxes as everyone else in this country, yet we are forced to tolerate an inadequate standard of emergency care. Furthermore, any incident in West Clare is exasperated by our isolation so when the ambulance does depart, they have the arduous journey to University Hospital Limerick on what is a substandard road network,” she stated.

Cllr McInerney called on

the Minister for Health, HSE senior management, and Government representatives to urgently sit down and sort out the chronic under-resourcing of the NAS in Clare. “The people of West Clare are being put in danger every single day by a under resourced, underfunded, and neglected health emergency system. This isn’t politics— it’s people’s lives”. In a separate incident in Inagh on Monday, a woman with serious crush injuries had to be airlifted to hospital.

MacNeill

Photo by: Don Moloney

Council explores “mechanism” for distributing 25MB Tobin Report on Cliffs Coastal Walk

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DELAYS have been encountered in circulating the new management plan for the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk as senior officials in Clare County Council grapple with an IT glitch to try send a digital copy of the report.

Consultant engineers, Tobin have been tasked with developing a management plan for the 18km coastal walk. The Tobin Report was commissioned by Clare County Council, Clare Local Development Company (CLDC), Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development to create a management plan for the coastal walk.

Repeated setbacks have been experienced since November regarding the publication of the Tobin Report when landowners were initially told they would have the report. Director of Service for Tourism in Clare County Council, Siobhán McNulty had stated in the middle of February that the Tobin Report would be complete in “two weeks”.

Addressing Thursday’s meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, the Director confirmed that the report was indeed complete and within her possession. However, she revealed that an IT issue had left the local authority in a pickle when it came to distributing the keenly-awaited report.

“I have a 25MB document which is the Cliffs of Moher coastal walk management plan which is to be circulated as soon I have a mechanism for doing so,” she outlined. CLDC, Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Rural and Community Development will be the first to receive the report once technical issues have been tackled. Landowners will then receive the report followed by elected members, Ms McNulty advised.

She said the “mechanics of circulating the document via IT” were the last remaining barrier. “You can expect to have it in the next number of days, I have the draft, we are looking at an IT solution, I am mindful of printing a 252 page document”.

Progress on plans to reopen the walk for the 2025 summer season had been requested by Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), “We call for appropriate signage forewarning visitors in the event of portions of the walk not being traversable as public walkways on the approach roads as well as in the vicinity of the walk itself”.

In a written reply, the Director outlined that the Council was working with the Department, Fáilte Ireland and the CLDC “to secure its future in consultation with stakeholders with landowners as the key stakeholder. A management plan is being prepared by Tobin Consultants, the availability of

a draft is imminent”.

CLDC manage the route under a contract from the Department, she noted. “The Grade 5 high difficulty Coastal Walk in southern section is closed to the public in the interest of public safety and will not open in 2025. The northern section from Doolin to Surfers Path is currently open to the public,” Siobhán stated. “Clare County Council owns, operates and manages the Cliffs of Moher Experience site. This length of pathway under the control of Clare County Council is 1,000m. This safe pathway which is part of the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk is open to the public, the boundary entry points to the Coastal Walk north and south are closed with signage and inaccessible barriers. The digital assets owned and managed by Clare County Council are updated with current information on open and closures including website, app and social media pages. All booked customers are made aware of accessible areas. There is signage in place at closure points and on the main approach roads put in place by CLDC. We will correspond with CLDC to request additional signage advising the closure of the Coastal Walk”.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr Killeen said councillors “were waiting for the Tobin Report” and acknowledged that one kilometre either side of the Cliffs of Moher centre was “has been vetted and is

safe, it is open for tourists to use”. He added, “We were told the Tobin Report would shed some light on the development of the Cliff Walk, it hasn’t been released yet, we are still waiting for that”.

Senior officials could do with acquiring a dictionary, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) remarked, “the definition of imminent is about to happen, what I can assure you is imminent is the tourist season, indeed it is happening presently”. He said at a briefing on March 4th where the takeaway message was that the report “was imminent”, he asked for a further definition from the top table on their meaning of imminent.

After hearing the contribution

from the Director regarding the ‘IT solution,’ Cllr Talty quipped that its distribution “sounds very imminent”.

Noting that the meeting was taking place on International Happiness Day, Cllr Killeen asked was the report “positive or negative”. “It will make some people very happy and some people very unhappy but that is the reality of all reports,” McNulty replied. “It is a 252 page document, there is quite a body of reading in it with the objectives and setting out the stall, there is a lot of discussions and feedback”. She said it was “a good job that Cllr Talty went to Google” for his definition.

Clare GAA seeks extra time over Caherlohan bat impact concerns

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

CLARE GAA have asked for extra time to provide further information sought by the planning authority for a major development at Caherlohan.

Clare County Council halted plans for the development in August 2024 over concerns on the impact it would have on the local lesser horseshoe bat population.

In June 2024, Clare GAA lodged plans with the Council to upgrade the facilities. Proposed works include the addition of two new full-length playing pitches, the construction of a new all-weather synthetic playing pitch served by six 25 metre high floodlights and the construction of a new hurling ball-wall. The plans also include the installation of twelve 25-metre high floodlights serving existing pitches 3 and 4 and the construction of a new covered spectator stand serving pitch 3.

Player welfare is to the fore of the development that also features

plans for a new gym, dressing rooms and dining areas.

€3.2m was granted to Clare GAA in November under the Large Scale

of Excellence at Caherlohan regularly appeared in the headlines from 2019 to 2021 as a handful of club delegates particularly those

Sports Infrastructure Fund to develop Caherlohan and carry out these plans which Head of Operations, Deirdre Murphy previously estimated would cost €5m.

Opened in 2015 after it was purchased in 2005, Clare GAA’s Centre

from Whitegate, Tulla and Wolfe Tones were vocal in their criticisms of the facility. Since the retirement of Pat Fitzgerald as County Secretary in July 2022, there has been little to no negative remarks passed about the facilities by delegates. Its

use by clubs has increased over the last three years.

Costings provided in November 2019 by then Chairman Joe Cooney revealed that the property was purchased by Clare GAA for €2.3m, phase one development cost in the region of €700,000, phase two cost an approximate €1.5m, phase three development cost €210,000 while €90,000 was spent on dressing rooms, teams room and the dining area. The Saffron and Blue strategic review published in October 2021 recommended that Caherlohan be made the long-term headquarters of Clare GAA, the plan also said the facility was “not fit for purpose”.

Concerns were raised in August with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage telling Clare County Council that it should carry out a study to determine if the Clare GAA proposal will significantly impact on the nearby Newgrove House which is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) due to the presence of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat.

This tiny species of bat measures only 5 to 9 grams with a wingspan of 194-254mm. The Department stated that the proposed development is located within a known foraging site for the bat and are concerned that the scrub generated by construction as well as light pollution from the high floodlights may have an adverse effect on the small mammal.

As a result, an ecological assessment of the site complete with a comprehensive bat survey has been requested. Clare GAA has also been asked to produce a lighting plan and include specialist lightbulbs to minimise the impact on the local bat population.

Officials in Clare GAA have asked for an extension of the period to supply this information however. The planning department has agreed to this request and has given a deadline of May 25th 2025 to do so.

Lesser Horseshoe Bat

The Cliffs of Moher coastal walk

Garden themed mothers day gifts are now available

ITS HARD to believe we are at the end of March what a fantastic month lots of fine day and great gardening weather to get started with.

March is a great month to get seedling started, whether its vegetables or the upcoming summer flower seed like sweet pea you are sowing.

Keep an eye on the night time weather. Just because it’s spring, don’t take for granted that the frost is gone always be cautious, we can have cold nights.

This week has been busy at the garden centre. We have lots of colour to fill up your pots. We have some lovely perennial violas and pansy that will flower throughout the year. If you only need to add a few bits to keep your pots going, we have packs of bellis a lovely daisy like flower.

There is also lots of lovely Alpine plants coming in for rockeries beds the Iberis is in full bloom a blanket of white flowers, the saxifrage is also looking lovely with two shades of pink available.

So, whether it’s a pot or a bed you are hoping to fill now we have a nice, selection of colour available.

This weekend is all about Mother’s Day and what can you give as a gift so lots of our mommy’s are into the garden so a pot full of colour would eb a lovely gift.

We have lovely arrangements filled and ready to go with some beautiful colours. If you wanted to personalise the gift and give some thing different here are some ideas; - A Kanzan Tree commonly known as a cherry blossom a beautiful shade of pink blossom at this time of year.

-Magnolia with its beautiful tulip flowers that coming in striking purple a lovely white and just blooms lovely now.

-Camellia is a beautiful evergreen that has large ruby red, pink and elegant white sweetly scented blooms this time of year.

If you know its just the joy of perennial colour, why not come and pick some of her favourites and we can help you to add a nice container. This Mother’s Day why not spoil her with a gift that will last.

Wishing all the wonderful Mums out there a lovely day this Sunday. We are open from this Sunday going forward 11am to 4pm.

Clare Garden Festival launches with Seed Share

AS SPRING is present all around us, the organisers of Clare Garden Festival are busy as always, because April is Garden Festival month in Clare – to be exact Sunday April 27 is the date this year - and it will of course be launched with a Seed Share again at Ennis Showgrounds. At the annual Seed & Garden Share on March 29 from 3pm also at the Showgrounds gardeners and novices share their seed, seedlings and any other left-over garden gear with each other. So, anything that’s garden-related goes - Share your Seed & Seedlings, Barter your Garden Books or Trade your Garden Tools. The event is open to everyone and entry is free. People with large items to share can contact the organisers to arrange by emailing info@claregardenfestival.com .

Looking ahead to the big festival day this year on the Sunday after Easter, the focus will be on gardening demonstrations with the theme ‘Extending the Season’ which are running outdoors in addition to the popular indoor expert talks. There will be 4 large outdoor demos and 2 workshops running on the day with great local gardeners including Jim

Cronin and Jo Newton. A full programme of demonstrations will be released shortly.

Now in its 11th year, Clare Garden Festival will again feature over 75 quality garden, plant and food stalls and all day garden expert talks; the festival is a treat for Gardeners and provides a wonderful day out for all the family with great entertainment and sumptuous food. Clare Garden Festival is proudly supported by Fruithill Farm, Healthy Clare, Pobal, LCDC, Ennis Municipal District, IOMST Insurance, Blossoms on the Go Garden Centre, Colourful Creations Garden Centre, ClareEcho, Deerpark Timber Products, Frequency Domes, GeeUp Soil Enricher, MrBinman and Visit Caherhurley Nursery. For further details visit the festival website www.claregardenfestival.com and regular updates from www.facebook.com/claregardenfestival

Clare Echo celebrates

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Clare Echo is delighted to announce the official opening of its new offices.

Staff members at County Clare’s most-read newspaper celebrated the milestone with friends, clients and partners at their new premises at Clare Road Business Centre in Ennis last Friday, March 21.

The move marks another positive step for The Clare Echo, which has gone from strength to strength since its establishment in October, 2017, to become No1 in Clare for news, sport and advertising.

Among guests in attendance who The Clare Echo was delighted to welcome included representatives from Clare County Council Pádraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise at LEO Clare & Interim COO of Ennis 2040 DAC; and Seán Lenihan, A/Director of Services at Clare County Council.

Dympna O’Callaghan of Shannon Chamber was also in attendance along with a number of local businesses, including St Francis Credit Unions, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, Sherry Fitzgerald McMahon, Hotel Woodstock, Fitzgerald Electrical, Alan Considine Financial, and Pat Smyth Fashions to name a few.

Food was supplied by The Clare Echo’s former neighbours at Abbey Street Car Park, The Snack Shack, along with Zest. Star of the show was Kilfenora’s Sheamie Garrihy, of Late Late Toy show fame, who cut the ribbon to officially mark the new office opening and entertained guests with his accordian playing.

Editor & founder of The Clare Echo, Stuart Holly said, “Our dedicated and talented staff are what makes The Clare Echo so special and unique as a product. Along with our advertisers and readers, they are the reason we have continued to grow our profile and reputation in County Clare and I’m delighted that we now have a premises befitting of their high standards.

“The future is bright at The Clare Echo as we continue to be the most circulated newspaper in the county, and lead the way online where we have more than 1,000 paying subscribers and over four million page visits annually.”

l MOVING ON UP: Members of The Clare Echo (back l-r) Páraic McMahon, Ross Houlihan, Denise Quinn, Lisa Mullaly, Shane Gilligan; (front l-r) Kieran Murphy, Stuart Holly, Michael Fitzgerald and Sheamie Garrihy; (below) Clare Echo men Seamus Hayes and Gerard O’Neill; (right) Stuart Holly helps Sheamie cut the ribbon as Shane Gilligan and Frank Holly watch on

Photos by Tom Micks

l ALL SMILES: David Noble of St Francis Credit Union chats to The Clare Echo’s advertising executive Kieran Murphy; (left) Pádraic McElwee of LEO Clare with The Clare Echo’s Head of News & Sport, Páraic McMcMahon, Kieran Murphy and Michael Fitzgerald

Photos by Tom Micks

opening of new offices

l Cormac O’Sullivan of DNG O’Sullivan Hurley enjoys a cuppa and (below) Lisa Mullaly and Ross Houlihan of The Clare Echo

Photos by Tom Micks

l CELEBRATION: (top left) Sheamie Garrihy joins Head of Advertising Denise Quinn and Páraic McMahon; (above) Elaine Lally of Hotel Woodstock with Sheamie; (below left) Seán Lenihan of Clare County Council chats to Dympna O’Callaghan from Shannon Chamber of Commerce and Páraic McMahon; (bottom left) Clare Echo editor Stuart Holly shows Diarmuid McMahon of Sherry Fitzgerald the archives and (bottom right) Lisa Mullaly and Shane Gilligan in the Clare Echo’s new board room Photos by Tom Micks

Judge convicts prominent anti-immigrant activist Philip Dwyer of trespass at Magowna House

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has convicted prominent anti-immigrant activist, Philip Dwyer of trespass at a then new direct provision centre for International Protection (IP) applicants at Magowna House at Inch in May 2023.

Imposing a €500 fine for the trespass offence on ‘Citizen Journalist’ Philip Dwyer at Ennis District Court on Wednesday, Judge Alec Gabbett said that words used by Mr Dwyer to others on the grounds at Magowna House were “unkind” and “quite unseemly”.

After viewing Mr Dwyer’s video footage in court of what occurred at Magowna House on May 18th 2023 Judge Gabbett said, “There was a certain undertone to the speech used”.

Judge Gabbett said that Mr Dwyer had told a Ukrainian man at the Magowna House site “‘you are Ukrainian - you are in my country’ or words to that effect and ‘you can’t tell me what to do in my country’ isn’t particularly pleasant to watch”.

Mr Dwyer (56) of Tallaght Cross West, Tallaght, Dublin 24 had denied the trespass charge and presented video footage of his interactions at Magowna House as part of his case and Judge Gabbett said that the footage was instead helpful to the State’s prosecution

against Mr Dwyer.

The court was told at the time, there were protests at Magowna House where 29 International Protection applicants were being accommodated and there were blockades on local roads which were attracting media attention.

In evidence heard previously, Manager of Magowna House, Ahlam Salman told the court that Mr Dwyer was on the property on May 18th recording “making me and my staff feel afraid and unsafe”.

Judge Gabbett said that Mr Dwyer’s footage corroborated the State’s evidence of Ms Salman’s fear on the day.

Judge Gabbett said that Magowna House was no longer operating as a hotel and was private property.

In the footage shown in court, Mr Dwyer can be heard saying “These are all foreign people telling me what I can’t do in my own country”.

Mr Dwyer can be seen addressing a Ukrainian man wearing a fluorescent jacket asking “Do you think Irish people are stupid? Do you think we are all idiots? I wouldn’t blame you to be honest with you”.

He asks later, “What is your problem? You are not in Ukraine, this is my country…What are you hiding? I am just asking questions

on behalf of the people of Ireland…. The people in this country are very concerned about this”.

After seeing some men believed to be IP applicants staying at the centre, Mr Dwyer asks, “Why are these people covering their faces… This is Ireland. This is my xcountry”.

He says later, “The people of Ireland you can see what is happening in their country - stopping Irish men going they lawful business to do journalism”.

The footage later shows Mr Dwyer saying, “Philip Dwyer is my name. I am a Citizen Journalist. You are in Ireland now.”

Of the Ukrainian man, Mr Dwyer said, “He should be over in Ukraine fighting the war - he is

here illegally”.

After seeing an Irish Times reporter located outside the Magowna House perimeter, Mr Dwyer commented “look at the face of treason here lads”.

Prior to Judge Gabbett imposing sentence, counsel for Mr Dwyer, Ann Doyle BL said her client does not accept the verdict of the court and had instructions not to give a very detailed plea in mitigation.

Ms Doyle said, “Mr Dwyer is someone who I believe is a person of integrity. He is a citizen journalist and he had no intention of creating a breach of the peace or invoking fear in anyone”.

Ms Doyle confirmed that the conviction would be appealed to the Circuit Court.

Clare Suicide Bereavement Services offers free,

confidential support for those affected by

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

We offer 1:1 and monthly group support, family and community support to those bereaved by suicide. We are based in Roslevan shopping Centre where we have 2 lovely rooms and people can come and feel safe and comfortable. It is a free service and 100% confidential. There is no waiting list and we are available 7 days a week day time and evenings, people just need to call us to arrange a meeting

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

Each year we facilitate an eight week healing program which this year kicks off on Thursday the 10th of April at 7.30pm.

During this program we facilitate peer to peer support for people bereaved by suicide and aim to help people find support and healing in a caring, safe and confidential environment.

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

l MacGowna House

Photo by: John Mangan

Regional News

West Clare

Commitment sought for projects to aid Kilrush’s economic growth

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

KILRUSH’s economic growth will be among the first items that the newly appointed Chief Executive of Clare County Council will be pressed for a commitment on.

Tuamgraney native Gordon Daly is expected to be in place as Chief Executive within the next six weeks. Before his arrival, a commitment has been sought to address dereliction and economic growth in Kilrush.

In a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Ian Lynch pushed for a co-ordinated review from the incoming Chief Executive outlining the Council’s commitment to the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre, Mars cinema project, public realm works on Frances Street and the Town Square plus efforts to aid Kilrush Tidy Towns’ scooping national honours.

Senior executive officer in the West Clare MD, John O’Malley confirmed the proposal would be forwarded to the new Chief Executive “once they are in place”. He said, “The recent formation of the new Kilrush Town Team is key to progressing plans for the delivery of the overall Masterplan for Kilrush, working with Grainne Hassett and her team from Hasset Ducatez Architects and the Council’s Town Centre First team. A cross-Directorate approach to the delivery of projects linked to this plan is key and the West Clare MD are working with various departments, focusing on the projects that will have the most significant effect on addressing dereliction and economic growth for the town”.

O’Malley added, “There are challenges involved in progressing the larger scale projects, especially from a support funding perspective and competing projects throughout the county”.

Frustration prompted Cllr Lynch to table the motion. “Every time a project seems to be announced it is for Ennis, that’s great for the county town but it means all the resources are going to Ennis”. He recalled his first election to the Council in 2014 and a subsequent special meeting with former Directors, Ger Dollard and Leonard Cleary

where he was told he was “one hundred percent right” that Kilrush was due investment. “They said once Parnell Street was sorted that Kilrush was next in line but they’ve done O’Connell Street, the laneways and bowways and now they can’t decide if they want a car park or not in Ennis”.

“Great fanfare” associated the launch of the Kilrush Maritime Training Centre but the project “is on pause now,” Lynch lamented, “I understand they have to wash their face but this is a €10m project”. An update on the feasibility study and what efforts will be made with Mars cinema’s future must also be provided, he said. When it comes to Tidy Towns, Ennis is also getting more than its fair share, he claimed. “The Director said they were setting up a cross-directorate to help Ennis Tidy Towns win the national Tidy Towns award, Kilrush is within a couple of points every year of winning the national award,” he pointed out while calling for additional support to help the volunteers achieve national glory.

He outlined, “the CEO is the one person who can make their mind up on this, we need to know if they are committed to it”. Hours were spent during the pandemic finalising applications “and we’ve been told not yet, I’m getting frustrated and I’m sick of it. We’re wasting our time if the CEO doesn’t commit to it, I’m tired of talking about it”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) said he as a member of the Southern Regional Assembly was not

East Clare

Shannon Bridge Crossing & R494 upgrade on target for completion

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

COMPLETION targets for one of the biggest infrastructural projects in East Clare are on track to be met.

informed the Cloister project in Ennis was to be put forward as The Town Centre First Heritage Revival (THRIVE) application.

A strategy is needed for the MD, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) maintained. “For the Municipal District, we had a notional list of projects, we need something stronger, we need to follow the Killaloe Municipal District and come up with a strategy for our Municipal District, we have the Cliffs of Moher strategy coming but that is not the project. They have €15.2m got in Ennis and they haven’t agreed what to do with it. We need to agree what we want to do. It is a Kilrush proposal toay, I could write one tomorrow for Ennistymon or Ballyvaughan”.

Director of Tourism Development, Siobhán McNulty said she and her Social Development counterpart Jason Murphy met with the West Clare MD team “to set out our stall on developing a strategic working plan for the Municipal District, we will have a workshop of a document in next couple of weeks, we hear what you are saying”. She advised councillors Ennis was the only area eligible to apply for THRIVE. “We weren’t told that,” Cllr Slattery responded and the Director remarked, “it wasn’t that West Clare or North Clare was not included, they weren’t eligible”.

Over 1,200 people are employed in Kilrush according to the calculations of Cllr Michael Shannon (FF). “Kilrush needs these projects, it would inject confidence into the town, it needs a lot and number one I think is a hotel”.

Killaloe Bypass opened to traffic in mid-December while works continue on the Shannon Bridge Crossing and R494 upgrade, all three sections were included as the one project.

John Sisk & Son were approved as the contractor for the project in December 2021 with the sod officially turned on the scheme in November 2022, construction having started in August 2022.

There is a total budget of €88m for the scheme, the figures including land acquisition, design, planning and advance works contract. The tender cost for construction was €44m. A contract for the project was signed in February 2022.

A 33 month timeframe for the scheme was set and this is to be adhered to, senior officials in Clare County Council outlined this week.

Addressing a meeting of the Physical Development Strategic Policy Committee (SPC), senior engineer with capital projects in the Council, John Leahy outlined that they signed an agreement to deliver the project on behalf of the local authorities in Clare and Tipperary.

“It is anticipated that the entire project will be completed by mid-2025, 33 months was the contract duration and I’m glad to announce that the project will be opened within the time allocated, it is on programme and it will be delivered on time,” he stated.

Director of Physical Development with the Council, Alan Farrell detailed, “it is the biggest roads project in the country at the moment, it is the biggest project that the Department of Transport is involved in”.

Cllr Burke continued, “Issues always crop up, we’ve met you on those over last few

months. I came into the Council in 2009, within a month a draft of a proposal was circulated, I forget the exact details back in 2009 but we were told about the possibility of a new bridge and bypass, that’s fifteen years ago and I’m glad to say we’re nearly there”. He quipped, “we look forward to the bottle of champagne and the scissors”.

Co Clare will benefit from the scheme’s completion, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) maintained. “It is great to see a new structural project of this scale coming to fruition, it is hugely important for the county not just East Clare, people will now be coming into the county sooner rather than going via Limerick and as soon as we can get them into the county then that is better for everybody”.

Recently completed milestones with the scheme include the completion of pavement activities to the R494 and Shannon Bridge Crossing sections and commissioning of the foul sewer pumping Station. The road pavement wearing course was laid at night for road safety reasons and to facilitate home and business owners and minimise disruption. Road lining, studs and signage have also been installed, the temporary traffic management has been removed from Roolagh Junction. A road safety audit was conducted on March 10 and Sisk are currently attending to items recommended by the auditor.

Outstanding works on the R494 are comprised mainly of residential property acommodation works and the completion of surfacing works to the shared facility. Accommodation works are off-line and nearing completion and consist mainly of landscaping, driveway surfacing and boundary walls. Other ongoing off-line works include installing anti-scour measures to culvert streams, finishing works to attenuation ponds, road surfacing to Killmastulla local tertiary road (L94942-1), domestic foul connections to the new public sewer and minor accommodation works at Shannonside Business Park

Mary Coughlan tops the bill for Mountshannon Arts Festival

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

JAZZ and blues singer, Mary Coughlan a household name across the country is set to take centre stage at this year’s Mountshannon Arts Festival.

Known for her raw, soulful voice and deeply emotive storytelling, Coughlan’s headline act takes place at St Caimin’s Church in Mountshannon on Friday May 30 at 8pm.

Evolution is the theme of the 2025 Mountshannon Arts Festival. Coughlan’s fame as one of the country’s foremost jazz and blues performer saw her inspired by the likes of Billie Holiday and Bessie Smith, though her catalogue includes influences by music’s many genres. Now, as she celebrates with a 40th-anniversary tour, her evolution finds her exploring a little-known side of the music of Peggy

Lee.

Drawing many to the shores of Lough Derg, the festival will again present top-class music, drama, visual art, craftwork, spoken-word, demonstrations and workshops. It will also continue to provide a platform for local, national and international artists, who will again entertain, enlighten and push the boundaries.

This is reflected by this year’s staging of the taboo-breaking ‘Am I Irish Yet?’, a one-woman show by the acclaimed author Kate Kerrigan. Born of Irish parents and reared in London, Kerrigan’s hilarious and poignant show covers her journey growing up among the ‘Bombing Irish’ of the Thatcher era, to ultimately reveal what it takes

lMOUNTSHANNON ARTS FESTIVAL: Mary Coughlan

lECONOMIC GROWTH: Henry Street Kilrush

Photo by: Gerard O’Neill

Ennis: Talk of the Town

Multi-million euro investment part of ‘significant plans’ for Ballyalla

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A MULTI-MILLION euro investment is being eyed up for Ballyalla.

There are “significant plans” with “significant costs” for Ballyalla according to Acting Director of Economic Development with Clare County Council, Seán Lenihan. He confirmed “a senior staff member” has been assigned to review plans for the area and identify sources of funding.

In a proposal before the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) stated, “Ballyalla needs investment. Investing in Ballyalla located near Ennis presents an opportunity to enhance a valuable natural and recreational asset. I request that consideration be given to supporting local and environmental goals within this area”.

Lenihan in response commented, “It is wholeheartedly agreed that Ballyallia is a significant and unique asset for not alone Ennis but also the many people that come to visit here. Members will be aware of the significant plans that we have for the area and the significant costs attaching to same. Moreover, there are significant challenges to carrying out certain works there given the sensitive environment and ecological parameters that exist there That being said, we should always be looking to see what we can do better and what incremental improvements can be carried out in the shorter term”.

Ballyalla was labelled “a fast location near Ennis” by Cllr O’Callaghan. “It is a significant unique asset,” he stated. The potential of a visitor centre, picnic area, interpretative centre to examine biodiversity were all suggested by the Kildysart native who told the meeting he has been out on his kayak on the lake. “It is its own gem,” he

said, “it is a big picture but one worthy of pursuing”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF) noted, “lots of kayaks are fantastic but take up an awful lot of parking space, it is not that far of a walk to get to changing areas”. She commented, “build it and they will come is coming into my head, it is an area of our town which is underutilised considering wellness, mental health and nature, it is there already, we don’t have to start from scratch”.

Improving facilities for swimmers in Ballyalla has been raised by elected members “for years,” Cllr Pat Daly (FF) flagged. “There’s lots of work

which can be done in Ballyalla”.

A building in the locality has been acquired in recent times, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) told the meeting. “I think we’ve always said Ballyalla could be an amazing facility for the town, it was rediscovered during COVID”. She asked that a behindclosed-doors briefing be organised for councillors on the previous plan for Ballyalla, “it was a forward thinking plan, it was amazing, let’s bring everyone on the same sheet”.

Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) agreed, “It is important to get the basics right until the picture is clearer”.

Addressing the meeting, Lenihan said the Executive “wholeheartedly agree with” O’Callaghan’s motion. “It is a jewel in the crown and it needs investment. It is a multi-million euro project, it is not just funding, there is sensitivities to the plan, it is a SAC, it is not a case to go out and do everything we can”. Staff in the Ennis MD have already completed work on tidying up the pathways in Ballyalla. He said a briefing can be arranged in advance of the April meeting.

Completing a feasibility study is “a big undertaking,” Cllr O’Callaghan said. “It is trying to locate where we can get the extra funding by focusing

on sustainability. Ballyalla can become a model for rural development by developing it, it is a gem”. Back in 2022, the Council had intended to apply for planning permission to An Bord Pleanála for the Ballyalla Amenity Enhancement Plan. The lake is located on the River Fergus, north of Ennis covering an area of 308 hectares. It has been recognised as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention. It is designated as a Special Area of Conservation and a Special Protection Area for bird species in addition to being a proposed Natural Heritage Area.

BISS farmers clinic coming to Ennis

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture, Food and the Marine will be bringing an in-person Farmer’s Clinic to Ennis next month.

The clinic is to to assist farmers in making their applications online for the Basic Income Support for Sustainability (BISS) and other area-based schemes.

The BISS Farmer Clinic will take place in Hotel Woodstock on Tuesday April 1 from 10am - 4.30pm and staff from the Department will provide one-to-one support to assist farmers to submit their scheme applications well in advance of the closing date of 15 May 2025. These clinics have proved very popular in past years with farmers.

Speaking on the clinics, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, TD, said: “These clinics have been exceptionally popular in recent years and offer an opportunity for farmers to engage directly with officials from my Department. We have excellent advisors to support farmers in making their BISS applications, but where farmers are not in a position to engage an advisor the clinics are an excellent means of ensuring that the BISS application is submitted correctly and on-time.”

In total, 16 Farmer Clinics are scheduled and offer an opportunity for farmers to be supported by Department staff in making a range of applications related to area-based support schemes, such as BISS. These clinics are particularly useful for farmers who do not have an FAS approved advisor to assist them with their application.

Notes

ALZHEIMER SOCIETY CLARE

THE Clare Branch of the Alzheimer Society will continue to hold their Ennis Information Cafe on the third Wednesday of each month, in the Ennis Centre, Cuan An Chlair, Cahercalla, from 11.30-13.30.

Guest speaker on the 16th of April is Technologies to Enable Independent living, Speaker Bernadette Dunne . Join for tea and a chat.

For more information contact Samantha Fennell 0876985819, e-mail : samantha.fennel@alzheimer.ie

Lahinch’s Máire to lead group of volunteers in India

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

LAHINCH’s Máire Donohue will lead a group of volunteers to India this summer.

Máire will be travelling with the Cork based charity SERVE where she will be located in APD (The Association for People with Disability), a leading organisation focused on providing educational and support services to individuals with disabilities.

She will lead a team of volunteers, working to improve the lives of those in the community through education, skills development, and empowerment.

A primary school teacher at

Gaelscoil Donncha Rua in Shannon, Máire has a history of volunteering abroad, previously spent time in Uganda and, in 2023, volunteered at the Flamboyant Special School in Zambia. Her dedication to supporting communities in need and her passion for education has inspired her to take on this new

North Burren Community Group tackling loneliness with the help of Sharon Shannon and Family

North Clare Community and Sharon Shannon and Family come together to tackle loneliness in their area. It takes a village – or maybe 4, and all the people that live in them.

The residents of New Quay, Bellharbour, Carron and Noughaval collectively decided to takeon the challenge to tackle loneliness in their communities by planning a shared community building. Unbelievably, none of these places currently have one.

In February 2023, a community profile of the North Burren area was conducted by Clare County Council Community Development Officer, Niamh Wiley , which highlighted the lack of shared community facilities in the North Burren area. “This is very concerning when you consider the socio-economic conditions which exist, where 27% of the population are aged over 65 years. The rate of dependency is 63.7%, 13% higher than the national average. Further analysis shows over 11% of the population are living with a disability and a further 9% of all families are one parent families.”

Dr Joanna McHugh Power, as-

sociate Professor in the Psychology department at Maynooth University and co-author on a recent research paper on ‘Loneliness’ asks why Ireland is the loneliest nation in Europe.

There are two types of loneliness the report suggests: Social Loneliness and Emotional Loneliness. One of the strategies to start addressing these issues the study proffers, is by creating public shared spaces where people can meet.

The cross-parish community representative group: NBCG (North Burren Community Group) have worked hard on the development of the building, situated between the four parishes at Gleann Ciosog,  Gortaclare,  Bellharbour, Co Clare. Having successfully applied for initial grant funding they are getting closer to raising the full amount needed to build Phase 1 of the project and are now arranging a series of fundraising events and asking local people from these areas to donate. “Every cent, every Euro counts. We are doing this for all of us, young and old, for our grandchildren and their

children too. Our communities need a place to come together whether it’s for fitness; meetings; social events; parent and toddler groups or crafting. Everyone needs to give it their support,” says the NBCG.

Sharon Shannon and Family have done just that as they will be headlining a fundraising concert at New Quay Church on April 11 at 8pm.

Former Senator Roisín Garvey, Councillor Joe Garrihy and Councillor Joe Killeen are all in support of the project as they understand the significant benefits to the community: Roisín says: “Having a community centre is vital to keep our communities connected, vibrant and resilient.”

NBCG are also inviting the residents and businesses of New Quay, Carron, Bellharbour and Noughaval to donate towards creating a community space for all. We would like to extend our thanks and appreciation for all those who have already contributed.

Tickets are available through the North Burren Community Group Facebook page.

challenge.

“Volunteering has always been a part of my life,” Máire said. Having seen first hand the impact it has in communities, she is now able to share this experience with others as she leads the latest group of volunteers on SERVE’s flagship summer volunteer programme.

Her previous volunteering experiences in Uganda and Zambia have deepened her understanding of global challenges and strengthened her resolve to make a difference.

Gaelscoil Donncha Rua will hold a fun run this coming May to support Máire’s fundraising efforts. SERVE is a development and volunteering organisation committed to providing equal opportunities for poor communities living in Southern Africa, South-East Asia, and South America.

Clare students compete in semi-finals of Young Environmentalist Awards

The Connaught semi-finals of the ECO-UNESCO Young Environmentalist Awards (YEA) took place on Tuesday March 25, with young people from schools and youth groups from Clare, participating in the event at the Galmont Hotel in Galway city.

Students from Mary Immaculate Secondary School, Lisdoonvarna, travelled to Galway with their project educating students and adults on the impact of plastic waste in our seas and how they can help create a more sustainable future.

Notes

NCHS

The North Clare Historical Society will conclude its current lectures series on Monday March 31 with ‘Endeavouring to Survive ‘this Great Calamity’: Life and Death in Ennistymon Workhouse during the Great Famine’, a talk by Gerard Moran.

The lecture will cover the story of conditions in Ennistymon workhouse which opened in September 1842 during the famine.

Gerard Morna lectured in the History Department at NUI Galway and Maynooth University and is a senior researcher in the SSRC in the University of Galway. He has published extensively on 19th-century Ireland.

The talk will be held on Monday March 31 at the Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon at 8pm.

lVOLUNTEER IN INDIA: Máire Donohue

lStudents from Mary Immaculate College Lisdoonvarna

North Clare

Shannon

Councillors suggest ‘Luas on Wheels’ as alternative to Shannon Airport rail spur

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ELECTED members of the Shannon Municipal District are to examine the merits of a rapid bus system versus the potential of a rail spur for Shannon Airport.

Speaking at Friday’s meeting of the Shannon MD, Cllr Michael Begley (IND) touted a new suggestion to improve connectivity to Shannon Airport with no light at the end of the tunnel regarding the potential provision of a rail spur.

He stated, “We’ve all been listening about the provision of a rail link from Sixmilebridge to Shannon Airport for the last thirty years, the last discussion with Iarnród Éireann a few weeks ago didn’t give much solace to anything happening in my lifetime anyway”.

Recently, he came across Glider in Belfast and believed it served as a viable alternative to the rail spur.

Translink operate Glider, a rapid bus transit system in Belfast which connect East and West Belfast with the Titanic Quarter via the city centre. Glider has two routes, the busways total 24.5km in length using both dedicated bus lanes and mixed traffic lanes. Its development cost in the region of €115m, construction began in 2014 and it opened in 2018. It uses a fleet of 18m-long Van Hool ExquiCity articulated buses. Weekday services run for eighteen hours daily, operating on a seven to nine minute interval, increasing from four to six minutes at peak times.

Explaning the service to his colleagues, Cllr Begley commented, “this is the Luas

on wheels. It is a hop on hop off service, all that is required is suitable stopping points, it uses the existing road network or sweeper, it could be done quite fast and a fraction of the cost of doing a rail link”.

A Clare equivalent could be set up from Sixmilebridge to Shannon Airport, he said. “It wouldn’t be confined to connection times, it could be used for Shannon Town, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus for the in-between times”. He proposed a meeting be arranged by the Shannon MD “with the appropriate people in Belfast as a start to have a look at this”. He was adamant, “it would be the answer to the connectivity”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr John Crowe (FG) said, “it is an absolutely fantastic idea, we’ve been on about the rail link for years and will be for years to come”. He continued, “It is well worthwhile that we investigate it and put a case together for the relevant bodies”. Limerick City could also be included, Cllr James Ryan (SF) suggested.

€2m has been allocated in the capital programme plan for the rail spur, Cllr David Griffin (FF) noted. Begley’s proposal “would be significant for cost-saving,” he said. “We’re forever and a day to talking about a rail link,” the Newmarket-on-Fergus native stated. Cathaoirleach of the Shannon MD, Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) pointed out that the rail spur has been included in the County Development Plan. He felt local farmers “would be happy” with Glider rather than the spur. He said approval was needed from the Council Chief Executive for councillors to meet a Belfast delegation.

Off-street parking to be explored for Drumgeely

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PROVISION OF off-street parking is to be explored in Drumgeely.

In a proposal before Friday’s meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) asked that an assessment be carried out over the possibility of providing off-road parking “while ensuring space for service vehicles at the rear of the Drumgeely parks of Slaney, Foyle and Caragh”.

Senior executive engineer in the Shannon MD, Tom Mellett confirmed that an assessment would be organised for the service roads “to determine the level of demand for parking. Based on this assessment, the MD will seek a budget to proceed with the works”.

Mellett explained, “these roads are not considered part of the public road network and so funding

will need to be found from outside our Schedule of Municipal District Works programme”.

Permission of neighbours must be considered, Cllr Mulcahy stated. “We have to survey the different people on whether they want it or not, there is no longer one car per house now, every house has three or four cars, the kids have aged and they are driving themselves now, there is a need for parking”.

Horizonal parking was suggested by the Shannon councillor, “we can take a bit off the grass to widen the road”. Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) seconded the proposal.

l LUAS ON WHEELS: Glider Belfast

lOFF-STREET PARKING: Drumgeely Flats Shannon

Gort & South Galway

€320k funding for 267 local community groups & events in Galway

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

IN A significant boost to the economic, community and cultural development of County Galway, 267 local community groups and events are set to receive combined grant funding of €321,750.

At the March meeting of Galway County Council held in Áras an Chontae on Monday, elected members approved €303,750 in funding under Galway County Council’s Community Support Schemes, in addition to €18,000 allocated under Fáilte Ireland’s Regional Festivals and Participative Events funding scheme.

The purpose of Galway County Council’s Community Support Schemes is to encourage community and voluntary groups to take an active part in the development of their communities by providing small-scale funding for projects that

benefit their local community. The Community Support Schemes comprise three individual Support Schemes for economic, community and culturaldeevelopment.

The grants are diverse and range from support to improve local amenities and facilities; support for groups that promote and increase knowledge and awareness of the arts, heritage and Irish language throughout the county; to collaborative business promotional initiatives, festivals or participative events, which aim to increase footfall in towns and villages and drive economic growth.

Cllr. Martina Kinnane (FF), Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, stated, “Each year, the Community Support Scheme attracts a high level of interest and the recognition of the level of voluntary work right across the county and the significant impact of the work being undertaken was acknowledged by the Elected

Members when approving the allocation of funds”.

“On behalf of the elected members, I want to thank all the community groups that work tirelessly for their local communities and strive to make our local areas a better place to live, work and visit. In recognition of this work, it gives me great pleasure to endorse the Galway County Community Support Scheme awards for 2025,” added the Cathaoirleach.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council, said, “The Community Support Schemes will enable over €300,000 to be invested in the community and voluntary sector in the County. This investment would not be possible without the work and volunteerism provided by our communities and citizens who play a vital part in keeping communities alive and improving the quality of life and wellbeing in Galway”.

Kieran Coyne, Acting Di-

rector of Services, stated,

“The Community Support Schemes are a significant and popular funding scheme for groups in Galway County. The allocations provided through the Community Support Schemes are part of a wider range of funding schemes and we will continue to seek to maximise these through coordinating the schemes and directing communities to the most appropriate funding schemes for their planned projects and activities, while working in a collaborative and partnership approach with all stakeholders.

“I would like to thank the Elected Members for the huge role they play, and I also want to acknowledge the role of the Public Participation Network which plays a vital part in informing and advising the community and voluntary groups regarding this and other funding schemes,” added Mr. Coyne.

Sustainable creativity promoted through a series of sewing workshops

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A SERIES of three sewing workshops took place over three evenings at the Galway Bay Hotel earlier this month, offering participants the chance to learn sewing techniques through the medium of spectacular African print fabrics, with local designer Virtue Shine.

The workshops were funded by Galway City Council through the ‘Circular City Galway’ initiative, which promotes the prevention of waste and the creative reuse of materials.

Ghana-born designer Virtue Shine of Emerald & Wax led the workshops, guiding participants through the process of transforming sustainable offcuts from vibrant African print fabrics into unique, handmade wall hangings. The workshops not only focused on creating beautiful artwork but also emphasised the importance of reducing textile waste and reimagining discarded materials in new and innovative ways.

Fergal Cushen, Environmental Awareness Officer for Galway City Council commented, “These workshops teach people a new skill but also highlight what is possible when we look at textile waste from a fresh perspective. Such creativity is the essence of the circular economy – a model that encourages us to rethink our relationship with resources”.

The series received positive feedback from participants, many of whom expressed excitement about the opportunity to learn new sewing skills while making a direct contribution to sustainability. The workshops have encouraged individuals to think about their own fabric waste and how they can apply similar concepts in their daily lives.

Paul Connolly, Senior Executive Engineer for Galway City Council stated, “We are delighted to be involved in these hugely important workshops, and we really appreciate the positive feedback from all the participants. Textile waste has

become a big issue locally, nationally and internationally, and this is a wonderful way of returning textiles back into the economy, redesigned and reimagined”.

The ‘Circular City Galway’ initiative continues to support sustainable practices and foster innovation in the community. These workshops are building awareness around sustainability and offering tangible skills that align with a circular economy ethos. The initiative is funded by the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications under the Anti-Dumping Initiative 2025. Further workshops are planned over the upcoming months, details on these will be posted on Galway City Council’s website and socials. More tips and guides on how to breathe life into old textiles and clothing can be found at www.RediscoveryCentre.ie

lCOMMUNITY GROUPS: Liam Conneally, Chief Executive Officer of Galway County Council

From emotional exhaustion to wellbeing

EMOTIONAL exhaustion

is a state of feeling drained, overwhelmed and unable to cope due to prolonged stress or emotional demand.

It often results from continuous emotional strain, whether from work, personal relationships, or life challenges. It can lead to feelings of fatigue, detachment, irritability and lack of motivation.

People experiencing emotional exhaustion may also struggle to find joy in activities they once enjoyed and feel emotionally “numb” or disconnected from others. It is often a key component of burn out.

It’s always so interesting to see how easy it is to see emotional exhaustion in others and how difficult it is to see in ourselves.

We have an inbuilt train of thought that ‘ah, don’t worry, I’ll be fine and just keep going it will be grand’. Many present at the clinic with emotional exhaustion- per-

haps bereavement losses of a friendship, family upset, relationship breakdown, or even personal emotional upset and anxiety.

Using many of the therapies I have studied, I design a programme for each client tailored to their specific needs. Many just need to be heard, understood, validated or redirected. Mindset is always the forefront of each session at the clinic.

Our personal boundaries often need addressing and the level to which we take on our own self-care, our own inner journey and our relationship with ourselves.

To look at kinesiology in these situations, we can uncover unconscious emotional blockages or traumas stored in the body through muscle testing.

By identifying and addressing these issues, kinesiology can help release stagnant emotions and improve personal wellness. As a kinesiologist, I use techniques

Ná déanaigí dearmad an t-am a athrú na cloig/

Don’t forget to change the time on your clocks

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

IS CUIMHIN liom babhta agus mé i mo scorach óg in Inis Oírr go raibh orm an chéad léacht a léamh ag Aifreann an Domhnaigh / I remember once as a young lad on Inis Oírr one Sunday that it was my turn to read the first reading at Sunday Mass.

Bhí chuile rud thar cionn gur shroich mé an Séipéal / Everything was fine until I reached the Church.

Cheap mé go raibh mé ró-luath, mar ná raibh deoraí thart.

Sagart ná duine cráifeach ar

bith a bhí le feiceáil ach na préacháin ag breathnú orm agus mé ag scríobadh mo chloigeann / I thought I was too early as there was nobody around. There wasn’t a Priest or devout parishioner to be seen, only the crows and them looking at me scratching my head.

Is ag baile a chuimnigh mé gur athraigh an t-am / It wasn’t until I was back home that I remembered that the time had changed.

Imeachtaí/Events:

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

l LUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Ollscoil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389.

l AN SCAIRBH – ‘Lón i nGaeilge’, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé ‘An Gáirdín’, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?! Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com

like muscle testing, ESR and other techniques to uncover unconscious emotional blockages or trauma stored in the body.

When we become aware of how we feel in a certain situation, we can make a change. Many of the therapies I use are a great tool and signpost on the road to well-being.

Overcoming emotional exhaustion requires a combination of strategies that help replenish your mental and emotional energy.

Here are some other tools and techniques I use:

lMeditation and mindfulness- This wonderful tool brings calmness and emotional relief.

lBreath work- Breath work is brilliant to calm the nervous system.

lRest- Ensure you’re getting enough quality sleep.

lExercise- Physical activity, even gentle movement or walking, can boost endorphins and reduce stress.

lNutrition- A balanced diet

with plenty of good nutrition, particularly those that support brain health like omega-3 fatty acid and magnesium can help stabilise mood.

lJournaling- Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help process emotions and create a sense of release.

lSpending time in natureTime outside is always great to clear your mind. Nature is always talking to us as we observe the seasons and recognise the seasons of our lives.

lHomoeopathy- Homoeopathy offers a wonderful range of remedies specific to different emotions It’s important to give yourself time to heal and not expect immediate results. However, combining some of these tools based on your personal preference and needs can help start the journey of recovery from emotional exhaustion

Thought for the week - Happy Mother’s Day Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

THE occasion of Mother’s Day which is upon us this coming Sunday is an extraordinarily special day for all of us. Mothers bear the hardships and the joys in bringing up a child. A Mother is the epitome of love, serenity, compassion, mercy and forgiveness. Mother’s Day holds great significance for all of us. It’s that time of the year to let your mother know that no one loves her more than her own children. It’s a time to be grateful to your mother who’s mainly the most loving, kind-hearted, understanding and caring person in your life.

So this weekend celebrate Mother’s Day with non-stop surprises and have a beautiful time on this day. Get your entire family together if you can. Treat your mom like a queen by presenting her with a beautiful gift. It may not be the most precious

gift, but must be the embodiment of your true emotions. Mother’s Day poses as a great opportunity to pamper your mother for all that she has done for you over the years. You can never repay the debts, but on Mother’s Day, you can create a magical place for your mother to be delighted and fly high on love and life.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, even if we have great worries all around us at present, make your Mother feel the most special woman in the world by showing your care, love and affection, especially during this special mothering Sunday.

Most of all let your Mother know how much you love her not just for Mothers Day but for all time. Spend as much time as you can loving and caring for the people who truly love you. Enjoy each moment with them before it’s too late. There is nothing more important than family, especially during these worrying times in our world.

Make your mother and

the mother of your children feel the most special woman in the world by showing your care, love and affection.

Most of all let your mother know how much you love her, for life is short and time is running out. Most of us have been blessed by a mother or someone like a mother in our lives. Mother’s Day is a time to pause, remember, give thanks to God, and share our gratitude with those who have shaped us. And, let them know you love them and thank God for them.

A very Happy Mother’s Day to all our Mother’s both living here on earth and those who, like Jesus, have been lifted up from the earth, forever to be with us in our hearts. Whatever Mother’s Day brings for you,

l Séipéal Inis Oírr

Arts & Culture

Ennis Musical Society brings magic to the glór stage with this years production of The Witches of Eastwick

by LISA MULLALY

This April, the Glór Theatre in Ennis will be transformed into a world of magic, mischief, and mayhem as the Ennis Musical Society presents its much-anticipated production of The Witches of Eastwick. Running from April 2 to 5, this spellbinding musical promises to enchant audiences with its thrilling narrative, compelling characters, and striking performances.

Adapted from John Updike’s novel and the 1987 film starring Cher and Jack Nicholson, The Witches of Eastwick explores themes of desire, female empowerment, and the unforeseen consequences of getting exactly what you wish for. Directed by Sarah Kenny, this production blends supernatural allure with dark humor, and promises to captivate with its evocative music, dazzling choreography, and powerful performances.

The story revolves around three women whose lives are irrevocably changed when the enigmatic Darryl Van Horne arrives in their small town. Leading the cast are Colm McGuinness as Darryl, Helen Catherine Ball as Alexandra, Olivia Parkinson as Sukie, and Isadora Killeen

as Jane.

The Clare Echo had the opportunity to attend a ‘sunday rehearsal’ with the Ennis Musical Society which took place at the Holy Family Hall in Ennis. The day started at 1pm with a select group of ensemble members to run some smaller dance numbers, while the leads ran lines in between having their cast photos taken. The small groups were soon joined by the remainder of the cast and crew to set scenes, run dance numbers and do a full runthrough of the show.

Throughout the chaos of the day The Clare Echo man aged to speak with the musi cal’s leading man, Colm Mc Guinness and director Sarah Kenny to gain some behind the scenes in sight into this magical production.

As a musi cian Colm is no stranger to performing for a live audience however unlike the majority of musical theatre performers who start out singing their hearts out in youth

theatres, he didn’t take the art of theatrical performance until later in life.

“A lot of the people in musical societies are obsessed with musicals, as you might have guessed, but I only did my first musical about six years ago. Before that I had only seen two musicals live, Grease and Fiddler on the roof, which my aunty Helena McGuinness starred in. So I guess it’s in my blood, though it took me a while to figure that out,” explained Colm.

Having discovered his passion for musical theater only six years ago, McGuin

his debut in Chicago to now playing the charismatic stranger who sends the town into a whirlwind of desire and chaos.

“I’ve had such a wonderful time in rehearsals,” says McGuinness, who is performing with the Ennis Musical Society for the first time. “Everyone is so friendly and accommodating. The talent is amazing, from the chorus singing, dancing, acting and directing, I’ve been really impressed, which shouldn’t have come as a surprise, I’ve seen two of their shows and they were both brilliant.”

Sarah Kenny, the di

production, brings a wealth of experience to the stage, having worked with musical societies for over two decades. “I love working behind the scenes,” says Kenny. “I listen to the music and visualize it in my head, and then work to bring that vision to life on stage. It’s a process, but when everything comes together, it’s truly magical.”

The show is a whirlwind of moving parts from start to finish. From moving sets to lighting effects there is never a dull moment throughout the production. With a huge ensemble cast of almost 50 members, Sarah explained that collaboration and trust between the members of the production team is crucial to ing their collective sion come to life.

Clare Poetry Collective to host open mic event

by Lisa Mullaly

lisa@clareecho.ie

The Clare Poetry Collective are hosting an open mic event in Glór for active poets and lovers of poetry.

The Clare Poetry collective, established over 30 years ago, was set-up to create an inclusive community for established creatives and would-be poets throughout Clare. Through open-events, live performances and professional workshops, the Clare Poetry Collective hopes to inspire and support writers and readers of poetry.

Frank Golden, poet and committee member explained that the organisation aims “to cultivate an encouraging environment for their members, not one that is overly critical.”

The group has recently worked with Marie Byrne the director of glór to re-establish “Foyer Readings”. This is a bi-monthly event which runs on Saturdays from 12.30pm to 2pm in the glór foyer. The event begins with a musical introduction which is followed by an hour of poetry reading for all guests to enjoy.

The next installment of “Foyer Readings” will be an open mic

event. The Clare Poetry Collective are inviting poets and would-be poets to share their original poetry at the event. Frank explained that this is a brilliant opportunity for creatives to test out new works on a live audience.

“It is a great platform for authors to read their work out in front of an audience. Oftentimes you can write a poem or a series of poems and be unsure if it really works. The best way of finding out if a poem really works is by reading it out in public.”

As the event is limited for time, those who are interested in taking part in the open mic event are asked to register beforehand. Registration for performers is open in the glór foyer from 12-12:30pm. Each poem cannot exceed 40 lines.

The Clare Poetry Collective also run a monthly poetry event in libraries around the county. These events take place in the De Valera Library in Ennis, Kilrush Library, Seán Lemass in Shannon and Scariff Library on the first Friday of every month. The monthly library poetry events are another opportunity for attendees to share the poetry they have been working on with others and receive live feedback.

“It really requires everyone working together. So there’s Lau-

ra Jane doing the choreography, Eilidh and Shane doing the music, I’m doing the

direction side of things and with so many moving parts we have to trust each other that it will all work together.”

Joining Kenny is a team of exceptional creatives, including choreographer Laura Jane Allis, musical director Shane Farrell, and choral director Eilis O’Neill, all of whom work in harmony to create a truly immersive experience. “This is a show with darker, more mature themes, but it also celebrates the strength and bond of female friendship,” notes Kenny. “There’s a wonderful balance of light and dark, which we’ve worked hard to convey through both the performances and the music.”

The Witches of Eastwick has brought some new challenges to Sarah in her role as director. As a speech and drama teacher, Sarah has become accustomed to working on shows which appeal to all ages but this production brings along some more mature themes.

“It’s definitely for a much more mature audience.” Sarah explains “It’s different because of the content of the show that it is, you have to try and walk that line of making sure the show is tasteful while keeping the essence and energy from the original story.”

Tickets for this enchanting production are now available for €25 at the Glór Theatre Box Office or online at Glor. ie.

‘An Seomra Spraoi’ returning to Ennis

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

AN SEOMRA Spraoi an independent comedy club set up by Irish comedian Cillian Mac Gabhann will be returning to Ennis for two nights of laughs at the Copper Jug.

The club, originally set up in 2022, travels around the country bringing up-in-coming comedians to national stages while also creating a space for comedy as an entertainment platform in Irish towns that may not have an established comedy scene.

Speaking to the Clare Echo Cillian said “The show aims to bring comedy to towns that wouldn’t necessarily have a strong comedy scene, and also it allows smaller comedians to have a chance to perform outside of their usual venues.”

Each show has a variety of acts from different backgrounds and areas of the country. Cillian explained that when selecting his line-up he tries to pick comedians that are less well-known to give them a space to perform and grow their audience.

“I try to stick to my principle that I am promoting comedy as en-

tertainment and not a specific act.”

After starting out as a comedian himself, Cillain has moved into a mentorship role. Although he misses performing himself, he is happy to help comedians who are starting out on their journey and provide them with a space to perfect their skills in front of a live audience.

“Comedy is an art and a craft in itself. It’s not just about being funny, you have to master timing, stage craft and stage presence, like a form of the arts like acting and playing music it takes time and practise.”

Graham Francis, a comedian based in Cork will be headlining the Friday night show. Graham started out his comedy career performing at open mic nights while travelling around Australia in 2019.

Unlike most comedians starting out Graham brought his jokes directly to large venues. Although it may have taken some time to settle into performing infront of large crowds, Graham found his way through the uncertainty of the beginning months of his career and

has now found confidence in his comedic talents.

“The beginning is awful, when you get up on stage in front of a big crowd and you say something that you think is going to be funny and no one laughs. But after my first few shows I realised that literally no harm can come from a bad show, I’m never going to see these people again. It still sucks in the moment but you just learn to be okay with that feeling and try again the next time.”

“I’ve been lucky that public speaking has never really frightened me so I have never felt a need to get rid of those jitters that others comics might have. I am at a place now where I know my routine and I comfortable with just being myself.”

After a successful sell-out show last year, An Seomra Spraoi will be returning to Clare with two nights of the “Ennis the Menace Comedy Show” in the Copper Jug. The shows will take place on Friday 28 March and Saturday 29 March. Each show will have a different line up of Irish comedians.

lLITTLE TOWN: members of Ennis Muiscal Society ensemble

109 hectare Newmarket-on-Fergus solar farm must be reduced in size

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

LACK OF CONSULTATION has stalled plans for a 109 hectare solar farm across rural parts of Newmarket-on-Fergus.

Further information has been requested by Clare County Council for the development which spans across the townlands of Ballycar, Lislea, Killulla, Mogullaun, Crossagh, Ralahine South, Culleen, Drumline and Ballycasey Beg.

Meath based renewable energy firm GP Joule LTD have applied for a ten year development phase at the site which they have stated will have a forty year lifespan when built. The plans include 256 inverters which convert the electricity generated and 24 transformer units. The planning department has stated that the development has “strong potential to fail” however due to its large size and potential environmental impact on the surrounding area.

Shannon Airport have expressed concern over potential glint and glare for aviation arising from the development. Green Party representative for Ennis Bridget Ginnity has supported the development.

The local authority has highlighted the potentially negative impact of the devel-

opment on the local bat and bird populations. The planning department has found that the Ecological Impact Assessment and Natura Impact Assessment provided have “been carried out are limited in scope and that full and completed surveys are required”. Clare County Council stated that “these fields can provide habitats of critical importance for these species” in reference to the various bat and bird species whose habitats are under threat from the development. The size of the development has also been questioned with the Council saying, “The planning authority is of the view that the subject development should be reduced in terms of overall length on which solar panels are to be located in order to reduce the overall impact on the surrounding landscape”. The planning authority has also asked for more drawings of the PV panels to be provided along with a traffic assessment report.

A number of local residents as well as others have also objected to the development. Declan and Lorna Kilker of Mogullaan, Newmarket-on-Fergus have expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of public consultation during the planning process. They stated

that after a public consultation on November 20th 2024, “no representative from GP Joule Ireland has subsequently been in contact to engage about the proposed development and address our own concerns or to examine the impact visually or otherwise”.

“The public consultation meeting itself was wholly inadequate, where attendees were presented with a drone type overhead display on screen of the impacted townland parcels and then had to ascertain which townland they resided in. No representative for the applicant was able to advise”, they continued.

Leona Glennon of Culleen said that she had received no consultation despite the development due to go ahead less than 100 metres from her home.

Maria Hinfelaar and Graham Park of Mogullaan were also unsatisfied with the visuals presented and objected to the development on the grounds that they were “very sketchy and provided only drone shots of the terrain with some project boundary lines drawn across it. These visuals did not go beyond the information on the leaflets which had been previously dropped through the door. There was some general in-

formation about solar farms but again nothing specific about the proposed development”.

Many residents also highlighted the potentially negative visual impact of the site with Gerard McMahon of Kilulla stating that “The proposed solar farm will have an extreme and unacceptable visual impact to a significant number of residents in the area, including myself and my family”.

Niall Ginnane expressed concerns over the impact the development could have on the mental health of locals due to loss of visual amenity.

He raised concerns that “the planting of any additional screening plus the erection of this fencing will only contribute to further block out the rolling hill views we currently have. We fully enjoy and appreciate the beauty of living in the open countryside and this solar farm will have an ongoing negative impact on our mental health and wellbeing and will destroy the beautiful views that we paid dearly for when we bought our site and constructed our home”.

This sentiment was echoed by Sean and Anne Stafford, whose views would also be

obstructed by the development. They stated that the development is “entirely out of character with the surrounding landscape. Given the topography of the area, the panels will remain highly visible despite any proposed hedgerow planting, as the height and density of the installation will exceed any potential vegetative buffer”. GP Joule have a six month period to address the eight conditions set out by the planning authority with a revised application.

High Court rules that error over single bat should not stop €1.2bn Ennis data centre campus

by Gordan Deegan

THE HIGH Court has ruled that a report error concerning a bat located in a barn outside Ennis is not sufficient to halt contentious plans for a new 200MW €1.2bn data centre campus.

This follows Mr Justice Richard Humphreys dismissing objectors’ claims that an An Bord Pleanála inspector’s error concerning a bat roost containing a single Leisler’s Bat, who was a resident in March 2022, in a crack in the external wall of a barn shed in farmland near Ennis, Co. Clare should stop the Ennis data centre campus

In the first line of his 28 page judgement, Mr Justice Humphreys commented, “The Bat in Building 6C could be an episode title in a Scandi Noir series. But it describes our subject here”.

Dismissing the objectors’

grounds over the Leisler Bat, Mr Justice Humphreys described the inspector’s error about the bat on page 74 of the inspector’s report as ‘harmless’.

He said, “A decision should not be quashed for error (including in application of EU law) if the error was harmless and did not materially affect the result”.

An Bord Pleanála granted planning permission for the scheme in April 2024 comprising six data halls covering 145 acres or 1.3m sq ft on lands adjacent to the Tulla Rd on the eastern outskirts of Ennis near Junction 13 on the M18 motorway connecting Galway to Limerick.

However, opponents of the data centre, Colin Doyle, Friends of the Irish Environment CLG, Futureproof Clare, Martin Knox and Christine Sharp sought a High Court judicial review of the appeals board permission.

In October, An Bord Pleanála

conceded the objectors’ claim for quashing the board’s data centre planning permission where they admitted that the Board erred in law in failing to consider adequately the environmental effects of the proposed development on bat fauna.

However, applicants for the centre, Art Data Centres Ltd contested the appeals board’s High Court judicial review concession to the objectors.

Now in his ruling after a one day hearing in the High Court, Mr Justice Humphreys has stated that the case dismissal “is a modest piece of recent legal history in that no previous developer in the State has succeeded in demonstrating as misconceived an objection that the appeals board was prepared to concede”.

He said, “For a certain type of observer, the fate of a single roost containing a single bat will be viewed

as a trivial basis for a debate about the validity of the planning permission. That is perhaps understandable at a superficial level but is a misconception”.

He remarks, “Obviously the issue isn’t trivial if you are the bat. Nor is the protection of species and habitats generally a trivial matter. Nor is compliance with EU law.

He said, “The fact that all parties in the present proceedings, and particularly the developer’s professional and ecological advisers, have concerned themselves so assiduously with the outcome for our bat and its roost shows that, despite everything, as far as the state of civilization in this country is concerned, all is not yet completely lost”.

Mr Justice Humphreys stated the company’s oral submissions utterly demolishes the objectors’ case in just six words, “the potentiality necessarily includes the actuality”.

CEO of Art Data Centres Ltd,

Tom McNamara said on Sunday, “I welcome the court’s decision, it is fundamentally founded in common sense and reason”.

The project will create between 400- 450 permanent jobs when the data centre campus is fully operational with up to 1,200 jobs in construction.

Mr Justice Humphreys has listed the case for next Monday, March 31st to deal with matters arising from his judgement.

In his ruling, Mr Justice Humphreys commented whether, and to what extent, those opposed to the data centre “can make headway on the derogation licence issue or any other issue is for another day and for other parties to join in considering”.

Business

Managing Director of Aillwee Burren Experience is shortlisted for the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

Nuala Mulqueeney, Managing Director of Aillwee Burren Experience has been shortlisted for the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards.

Women in business are a beacon of innovation, creativity, diversity and progress in Ireland and beyond. The IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards aim to celebrate the work and achievements of businesswomen in Ireland.

“Every year the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards are a showcase of the incredible depth and diversity of female leadership across Ireland’s business ecosystem,” says Clodagh Edwards, CEO of IMAGE Media.

With a line-up of 14 categories and shortlisting was a difficult job for the team of judges. Incredible stories were backed up with evidence of the success and vision of the women shortlisted in each category.

Nuala Mulqueeney, MD of Aillwee Burren Experience has been shortlisted in the Family Businesswoman of The Year category and joins the other finalists: -Dairíne McCafferty, Managing Director, Essential Foods Ltd t/a Cornucopia

-Danielle Tutty, Owner and Man-

Commercial vacancy rate increases in Clare

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S commercial vacancy rate has increased to 15.8 percent.

Data for the month of December shows Clare had a commercial vacancy rate of 15.8 percent which is above the national average of 14.5 percent. This represents an increase of 0.1 percent when compared to December 2023. The national average is at its highest rate since records began.

Of the urban areas in Clare surveyed, Shannon had the highest commercial vacancy rate (30.8%), while Ennis had the lowest (19.3%) Sligo was the county with the highest commercial vacancy rate at 20.6%, followed closely by Donegal (20.1%) and Galway at 18.8%. The lowest commercial vacancy rates were recorded in Meath (9.9%), Wexford (10.8%) and Kerry (12.3%)

In total, 30,365 of the commercial units were vacant across the state in December 2024 according to the latest GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report. The report also found that the commercial vacancy rate increased in 15 out of 26 counties.

Even though all four provinces experienced an increase in vacancy rates, four of the top six counties with the highest vacancy rates were in Connacht, continuing the trend of high commercial vacancy rates in the west of the country. The vacancy rate in Connacht reached 18.5%.

Commenting on the findings of the GeoDirectory Commercial Buildings Report, Dara

Keogh, CEO of GeoDirectory, said, “The national vacancy rate for commercial properties increased again in Q4 2024, continuing the trend of recent years. At 14.5% it is now at its highest rate on record, with vacancy rates increasing in all four provinces”.

Annette Hughes, Director at EY Economic Advisory, said, “While residential vacancy continues to decline significantly, dropping to just 3.8% in our most recent GeoDirectory Residential Report, commercial vacancy trends are going in the opposite direction. At 14.5% the rate now sits 1% higher than before the Covid pandemic, representing an increase of over 2,100 commercial units and comes despite a strong economy, growing population and record employment. There are likely many factors at play here including, changes triggered by the pandemic, evolving shopping preferences and continued cost pressures on businesses and households”.

aging Director, Rathmines Glass

-Elaine Sterio, Owner, Glenellen Restaurants Ltd

-Karen Dudley, Director, Kare Plan Kira Walton, Co-founder, VOYA Organic Beauty

-Louise Whelan, Managing Director, Pioneer Homecare

-Nuala Mulqueeney, Managing Director, Aillwee Burren Experience

-Orla Good, Group Commercial Director and Managing Director, Portwestt

-Phoebe Holland, Managing Director, Rugs.ie

-Ursula Kelly, Managing Director, Cormac Tagging

Commenting on making the cut, Nuala says, “ I am delighted for sure and surprised if I’m honest! For nearly fifty years, we continue to invest, sensitively develop and innovate at Aillwee. This is an ethos that I learned from the generation before me and that I endeavour to pass on to all the team. To be sustainable and flourish in our beloved rural Tourism Industry, we need to stay fresh and interesting for our visitors. It is an honour to be representing our Industry at the IMAGE PwC Businesswoman of the Year Awards 2025. I look forward to a wonderful event where I get to spend time amongst these brilliant people! The very best of luck to all Finalists in the 14 categories.”

Would you like to work at Ireland’s most visited natural attraction?

The Cliffs of Moher Experience has seasonal openings for CUSTOMER SERVICE AGENTS

available for an immediate start.

If you or someone you know would be interested in working as part of our team, please email your CV with a covering letter to careers@claretourismdev.ie

Closing date for applications is Friday, 4th April 2025

www.cliffsofmoher.ie

l BUSINESS WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD: Nuala Mulqueeney

Eurospar Newmarket-on-Fergus donates €1000 to The Crann Centre

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

EUROSPAR Newmarket-on-Fergus recently presented The Crann Centre with a cheque for €1,000 as part of a nationwide ‘Let’s Celebrate Community’ campaign run by EUROSPAR Supermarkets.

The EUROSPAR Let’s Celebrate Community’ campaign is an integral part of EUROSPAR’s commitment to say a heartfelt ‘Thank You’ to those who go above and beyond to help those within their community who might otherwise go without the recognition they so thoroughly deserve.

As part of this nationwide campaign, customers to EUROSPAR Newmarket-on-Fergus were asked to nominate a local charity, group or organisation, explain how they go above and beyond within the community to be in with a chance of winning €1,000 for their nominated community group. 15 winners from 15 different EUROSPAR Supermarkets across Ireland were chosen and each presented with a €1,000 cheque.

The Crann Centre were chosen as the winner from EUROSPAR Newmarket-on-Fergus

and here they are being presented with their cheque.

The Crann Centre is a specialist healthcare centre providing whole-family solutions for children, adults and families living with neuro-physical disabilities across Munster. Crann’s 2Generation Model of Care focuses on delivering wrap-around services and supports to a child or adult with a disability and also offers services to family members at its Centre in Ovens, Co. Cork. Crann supports over 650 families living with neuro-physical disabilities that include Arthrogryposis, Cerebral Palsy, Hydrocephalus, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Spina Bifida, Spinal Cord Injury, Spinal Muscular Atrophy and Stroke. Services provided include supports with mobility, continence, education, independent living, psychological wellbeing as well as a social capital programme so that everyone can enjoy better health and wellbeing, increased participation in leisure, education and work to thrive together as a family.

Crann CEO Padraig Mallon says “ We are hugely grateful to Eu-

DEISEANNA FOSTAÍOCHTA IN OIFIG NA NOIBREACHA POIBLÍ TREORAÍ MAOIRSEORA LE HAGHAIDH

MHAINISTIR NA HINSE AGUS INIS CATHAIGH

Tagairt an Chomórtais: 2025/018

Tá iarratais á lorg le haghaidh na bpost thuas. Tá sonraí an chomórtais agus foirmeacha iarratais le fáil ar www.gov.ie/opw

Is é an dáta deiridh a ghlacfar le hiarratais chomhlánaithe ná tráth nach déanaí ná 5.30pm Dé Céadaoin, an 16 Aibreán 2025. Tá Oifig na nOibreacha Poiblí tiomanta do bheartas comhdheiseanna.

rospar and the Let’s Celebrate Community campaign for awarding €1000 to Crann – it demonstrates a wonderful commitment by Eurospar to the communities in which they do business. It is also inspiring to see the commitment to inclusion and supporting people with disabilities shown by the Furey Smyth Newmarket on Fergus store. Crann has been delighted to support many clients from Co Clare since we started providing services in 2018 and hope to continue to grow throughout the region. 2024 was a year of progress and growth for Crann, with a 30% increase in the number of sessions delivered to clients. The Let’s Celebrate Community award will be used to continue to provide essential services to our clients and their families and to enable them to enjoy better health and wellbeing and crucially increased opportunities for participation in education, work and leisure.”

Included in the presentation is: Kate Sikorska, Store Manager and Mary Corkery, Crann Centre, Newmarket-On-Fergus, Co. Clare

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC WORKS SUPERVISOR GUIDE FOR ENNIS FRIARY AND SCATTERY ISLAND

Competition Reference: 2025/018

Applications are invited for the above positions. Competition details and application forms are available at www.gov.ie/opw

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is not later than 5:30pm on Wednesday, 16th April 2025.

The Office of Public Works is committed to a policy of equal opportunity.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE OFFICE OF PUBLIC WORKS SAFETY OFFICER (FIXED TERM & PERMANENT POSITIONS) IN SOUTH WEST ARTERIAL DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE & CAPITAL WORKS DELIVERY DIVISION

Competition Reference: 2025/023

Applications are invited for the above positions. Competition details and application forms are available at www.gov.ie/opw

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is not later than 5:30pm on Wednesday, 16th April 2025.

The Office of Public Works is committed to a policy of equal opportunity.

l Kate Sikorska, Store Manager and Mary Corkery, Crann Centre

Clare remain in Division 3 despite defeating Offaly

ALLIANZ NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIV 3 RD 7

CLARE 2-14 OFFALY 2-09

Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg Compiled by Páraic McMahon

GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 16 (9/7)

Wides: 15 (11/4)

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 2-9

Top scorer: Aaron Griffin (2-0)

Bookings: Cillian Rouine (69)

Own kickouts won: 14 from 18 (77%)

OFFALY

Frees for: 9 (3/6) Wides: 7 (2/5)

Spread of scorers: 8

Scores from play: 2-5

Top scorer: Jack Bryant (1-2)

Bookings: Jordan Hayes (20), John Fleming (23), Own kickouts won: 14 from 27 (52%)

REFEREE: David Hickey (Carlow)

Lissycasey lead way in Cusack Cup

TITLE holders Lissycasey have moved to the top of the Cusack Cup table thanks to their second successive victory in this season’s competition. They are a point ahead of St Joseph’s Miltown and St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield both of whom recorded their first wins of the campaign this week having drawn their opening tie in the willwego. com Cusack Cup.

Éire Óg got their first points of this campaign

when accounting for Corofin who along with Kildysart, suffered their second successive loss

In the Garry Cup, Kilrush Shamrocks moved to the top with their second win of the campaign after beating a fancied St Breckan’s while Naomh Eoin recorded back to back wins when overcoming rivals O’Currys. Wolfe Tones got their first win of this campaign when accounting for Kilmihil on Friday night.

Clare U20s progress

MUNSTER U20 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP RD 3

CLARE 0-16 LIMERICK 0-11

Venue: Hennessy Memorial Park, Miltown Malbay

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 12 (9/3)

Wides: 5 (1/4)

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 0-7

Top scorer: Conor Fennell (0-7 3xTPf, 1f)

Bookings: None

Own kickouts won: 12 from 21 (57%)

REFEREE: John Ryan (Cork)

LIMERICK

Frees for: 13 (6/7)

Wides: 10 (1/9)

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 0-7

Top scorer: Tom Ryan (0-6 1TPf, 2f)

Bookings: Tommy Ryan (15)

Own kickouts won: 12 from 21 (57%)

l Captain Seán McMahon leads the celebrations at the final whistle

Páraic McMahon

NEW RULES and a stronger emphasis on fielding has made gaelic football “more exciting”, Clare midfielder Brian McNamara has said.

With kickouts now having to travel beyond the 40m line as part of the new rules in gaelic football, it has put a renewed importance on the ability of fielding and catching kickouts where Cree native Brian McNamara has become an invaluable asset for Clare.

As a result the pressure on the shoulders of the UL student has increased. On how he has adapted to the changes, Brian told The Clare Echo, “It is definitely different compared to when kickouts used to be a lot easier to get off short, in fairness it makes it more exciting for spectators as well as players. You want to be fielding the ball but it can be tough at times, that 20 second rule coming in where you have to come out, be out and turned is tough but I thought we were getting used to it and that we were getting stronger as the league went on, I thought Emmet (McMahon) was very good, he was very good in the air today, we’re building nicely.

Clare’s five point win over Offaly was “bittersweet”, he said given that they missed out on promotion to Division 2. “We performed well today, I know our efficiency wasn’t great in the first half but we were doing everything right, it is unusual to come out of a game after winning by five or six points and be a bit disappointed, we want to build that consistency now and bring that to the

Munster championship, that’s where our eyes are now”. Attention from Clare’s perspective was solely on taking care of their task as opposed to worrying on might happen between Kildare and Antrim, he outlined. “We were always focused on trying to get the win here, we wanted to win here first and we said whatever happens after that happens. In the second half, we really kicked on”.

Their gaze is now switching to championship where they will welcome either Tipperary or Waterford to Zimmer Biomet Páirc Cíosóg on April 19th. “It’s all eyes on that now, we’ll get back training in a couple of days’ time and build for that”.

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Brian McNamara leaves two Offaly players on the floor Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Brian McNamara wins the ball Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Compiled by Páraic McMahon and Seamus Hayes

l Ennistymon’s Eoin Rouine dives for the ball in front of Cian Meaney and Aidan Weaver

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN FOR REPORT

'IT WAS A REAL DEAD RUBBER' - LOHAN

NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION 1

TIPPERARY 0-22 CLARE 1-18

Venue: FBD Semple Stadium, Thurles

Compiled by Enda Treacy

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 13 (9/4)

Wides: 11 (5/6)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 1-12

Top scorer: Mark Rodgers (1-5, 0-4f)

Bookings: Sean Rynne (8), Adam Hogan (13), Aron Shanagher (34), Tony Kelly (61)

Own puckouts won: 18 from 31 (58%)

REFEREE:

Colm Lyons (Cork)

by Enda Treacy

TIPPERARY

Frees for: 18 (11/7)

Wides: 10 (6/4)

Spread of scorers: 10

Scores from play: 0-12

Top scorer: Jason Forde (0-9, 0-7f, 0-1 65)

Bookings: Jake Morris (22), Ronan Maher (65), Sean Kenneally (74)

Own puckouts won: 17 from 27 (63%)

FIVE defeats from six outings in the Allianz National Hurling League has marked an unsuccessful defence of the league title secured last year for Clare. Their latest showing saw them let

an eight point lead slip against Tipperary where they came out on the wrong side of a 0-22 1-18 defeat.

Speaking in FBD Semple Stadium, the Clare manager saie he was “Disappointed to lose the game. We did a lot of things right and worked

‘Follow The Clare Echo on social media for information on how to win two tickets’

really hard all over the field so disappointed to lose the game”. There was a lack of atmosphere in Thurles, he noted. “It was a real dead-rubber game. A small crowd here as well so look, overall just disappointed to lose the game”.

“You need your attitude right and maybe we haven’t had our attitude as it could’ve been for the last couple of games. So yeah, the attitude was better,” he added. “Guys working hard, doing the simple things well, and good performances from

guys all over the field, so happy enough with that”. His brief interview was cut short after selector Ken Ralph communicated a message to the Clare manager.

Áine wants silverware as Clare prepare for Antrim rematch

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THERE is a great buzz throughout camogie circles in Clare this week as preparations are finalised for Saturday’s Division 1B Very national league final.

Clare take on Antrim at 2p.m. on Saturday in the final in Abbotstown, seven days after the counties clashed at Zimmer Biomet Pairc Chiosog in Ennis in the final round of the league series, both having already qualified for the final.

It’s difficult to know what bearing, if any, last Saturday’s game which Antrim won comfortably, will have this week as both sides availed of the opportunity last week to give game time to their extended panels.

Team captain Áine O’Loughlin who watched last week’s game from the comfort of the stand believes Clare “learned a lot from the game. It was a great opportunity for the management to give game time to panel members and Antrim did the same. Antrim are a good side and they won’t give us anything easy”.

“It’s a great place to be and we are really looking forward to Saturday’s final. Last year’s league was tough and being in Division 1B has given the players a chance to progress and gain valuable experience. We are going well, the camp is very positive, loads of players are getting the opportunity to play and things have been building with every match”, the Truagh/ Clonlara forward said.

Clare’s under 23 team got their championship off to a winning start last Sunday when they defeated Limerick. “Eight or nine of the girls involved in that team are part of the senior panel and their involvement in the under 23 game will have helped them gain more experience and confidence”, Áine believed.

“The winners on Saturday will go back to Division 1A and that’s where we want to be”, the captain added.

In three weeks time Clare will begin their challenge for championship glory when they take on Cork in Ennis in the Munster semi-final. The game will be played as a curtain raiser to the eagerly awaited Munster senior hurling championship first round tie between the same counties.

Áine

“There should be a great atmosphere at that game but for now our whole focus is on this Saturday’s league final. We want to bring some silverware back to Clare”, she said. O’Loughlin was one of five players from the Truagh/Clonlara club honoured with inclusion in the camogie club team of 2024 who were presented with their awards in Croke Park on Friday night last.

“It was great to have the year we had with the club and it was great to get the recognition on Friday night last and the aim now is to build on last year’s success. The club leagues will be starting soon with the championship to follow. As I said the focus now is on Saturday’s league final and hopefully we will have a big following in Abbotstown to cheer us on”, the team skipper concluded.

Clare have recorded wins over Westmeath (3-14 to 0-4), Wexford (0-14 to 2-9), Down (1-10 to 0-11) and Limerick (3-13 to 1-10|) on their way to Saturday’s final while Antrim defeated the same four teams. The indications are that Saturday’s contest will be a close affair.

l Clare players form a huddle on Sunday as they lost to Tipperary Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Clare captain,

O’Loughli Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Tulla claim semi-final spot while rivals Avenue & Newmarket face off

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TULLA UTD have claimed the first of the semi-final places in the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup while the remaining quarter-final ties are down for decision this Sunday.

Mike Moloney’s charges ran out 2-1 winners against fellow Premier Division outfit Inch Crusaders at Lees Rd on Sunday afternoon.

At half-time, the sides were deadlocked, Tulla had the greater share of possession. Midway through the second half, they went ahead. An interchange of passes involving Ayoub Aguerram, Daniel Withycombe and Éanna Culloo put the experienced Daragh Corry through on goal, he was brought down and

the resulting penalty was dispatched to the net by Éanna Culloo.

Indiscipline cost Inch again for the second goal. Culloo was fouled on the left wing, Jashar Aliu swung the free into the near post with Ayoub flicking the header to the back of

Moher Celtic are crowned champions in first season

MOHER CELTIC in their first season fielding a ladies team were crowned winners in the Clare Women’s Cup final.

Aoife Fitzpatrick scored the winning goal via a long-range free to see Moher Celtic emerge victorious on a score of 2-1 against reigning champions Hermitage FC at Frank Healy Park on Sunday.

There were joyous scenes as the North Clare club reigned supreme in Doora.

In the ladies shield final, Tulla Utd proved too strong for Corofin Harps as they ran out 6-1 winners in the curtain raiser.

the net beyond Tommy Barry on seventy six minutes.

It was the first time that Inch contested the quarter-finals and they pulled a late goal back on eighty nine minutes, despite seeing out the game with ten men. Tulla advance to the last four for the sec-

ond time in three seasons.

Who joins them in the semi-finals will be known by Sunday evening.

A big crowd is expected at McDonough Memorial Park in Newmarket-on-Fergus on Sunday (11am) for the meeting of keen

rivals Newmarket Celtic and Avenue Utd. The sides met in Roslevan earlier this month where Celtic had a 4-2 win but Avenue will come all guns blazing in a bid to retain their title.

Bridge Utd will carry the favourites tag when they make the trip to Lahinch on Sunday morning to meet Moher Celtic, the game kicks off at 11am with the Sixmilebridge club expected to seal their place in the semi-finals.

Fair Green Celtic and Shannon Olympic square off at 2pm in Lees Rd on Sunday. Fair Green will be tipped to reach a second semi-final in their history even though they face Premier Division opposition.

BRIDGE & AVENUE KEEPING THE PRESSURE ON NEWMARKET CELTIC

SOCCER: CDSL ROUND-UP

Ennis U15s defeat Garryowen

by Dearbhla Parry

news@clareecho.ie

U15 Boys North Munster Cup: Garryowen RFC 10 – 20 Ennis RFC

Ennis’ U15 team faced Garryowen in the North Munster Cup in another away fixture and came out victorious on a scoreline of 20-10 to secure a massive quarter final win.

Ennis started well but soon fell behind to a try against the run of play. However, the Ennis boys immediately responded and piled pressure on the Limerick side, levelling the score through a barrage of attacks.

After a sustained period of pressure, Josh Flynn then dove over the line to leave the score 5-5. The try was unconverted, however Ennis again pressured their opposition and were rewarded with a penalty, converted by Stephen O’Neill. Garryowen showed

why they are so clinical and responded with a converted try shortly before the halftime, leaving the score at 10-8 in favour of the home side.

Within the first ten minutes of the second half however, Ennis retook the lead.

Their forwards showed an enormous appetite for work and eventually found an attacking position, allowing fly-half Oisín Egan to feed O’Donoghue. A quick offload saw Stephen O’Neill find a gap to run in a team try and put Ennis 13-10 up.

Ennis defended for long periods and dominated the physical exchanges. Great work from the pack forced Garryowen to make mistakes, allowing Ennis to push for the critical score of the game. Jake O’Donoghue exploited a gap and ran in under the post, which was converted by O’Neill.

East Clare Winter League concludes

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THE final of the Winter league took place on Sunday. Eighteen teams played in the competition which produced some impressive scoring.

The cup winners were John Duffy, Kieran Quinn, Tony Duggan, Martin Breen, Geraldine Finnegan and Kathleen O'Brien.

The shield winners were Marie, Trish and Enda Donnellan, Jason Horan, Kieran Fox and Adrian Casey while the plate winners were Bridget Minogue, Celia Moloney, Tim Walsh, Stephen Moloney, Brendan Moloney and Richard Meehan.

Last week’s ladies Wednesday competition was won by Pauline Nugent, Mary Farrell and Mary Jo Minogue from Mary Hogan, Mary Stritch, Helen Downey and Helen Conway with third spot filled byNoreen Doyle, Hannah Guinnane and Teresa Bradley.

The senior men’s competition winners were Jim Greens, Noel Earley and Tony McNulty from Kieran McNamara, Donal Fleming and Batt Skehan with third filled by Terry Coughlan, Nick Ryan and John Nihill.

The winners of the Friday mixed scramble were Ailbe McDonnell, Brendan Moloney, Brian Torpey and Mary Hogan from Pat Duggan, Willie Roche, Terry Coughlan and Pat McNamara with third spot filled by Tony McNulty, Sean Ahern and Evelyn O'Brien.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB:

Last week’s ladies 13 hole singles competition was won by Nuala D’Auria (43) with 30 points. She won by one from Peg Hanrahan (16) with Geraldine O’Rourke (29) a point further back in third place.

They were followed by Bridie Hanrahan (18) with 25 points and Kathleen Frehill (38) also with 25 points

In the 8-hole singles the winner was Norah Power (25) with 18 points from Mary Walshe (19) with 16 points. Mary Woulfe (15), also with 16 points, was third followed by Martina Corbett (21) with 16 and Maureen Moloney (20) with 15 points

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Week 6 in the Johnson's Bar Spring Series Open Qualifier was won on a countback by Alan F Howard (23) with 27 pointsdeom Michael J Hogan (13) with Michael Moloney (12) in third spot with 26 points.

GORT GOLF CLUB:

The men's competition at the weekend was an 18 hole singles V-Par event. Category 1 winner was David Callanan (8) with 3 up while category 2 was won by Matthew O’Halloran (15) with a similar score. Category 3 was won by David McAllen (16) with 6 up while the category 4 winner was Fergal Conway (26) with 3 up.

Last week’s ladies competition was an 18 hole singles stableford outing which was won by Sinead Collins (22) with 40 In the Spring league the winners were Siobhan Forde and Aileen Walsh, Anne Kerins and Patricia Callinan, Ann Connolly and Angela Fahey.

Second place was filled by nd Anne Marie Mulry and Carmel Broder, Marcella Killeen and Regina Malone, Charlotte Kelly and Sinead O Connor, They were followed in third place by Joan Fogarty and Della Lally, Olive Mulcair and Margaret McMahon, Sinead Collins and Catherine Bailey.

Fourth place was filled by Bernie Diskin and Bernadette Burke, Ena Furey and Mary Dervan, Roisin Walsh and Niamh Carr followed by Petra O Connor and Marion Mulvry Fahey, Ann Jordan and Pat Wynne, Teresa Mahon and Catherine Burke.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB

In last week's senior men's outing Billy O'Mahony won category A from Willie Fuller with Donal Hassett in third place.. In category B the winner was Philip Hehir, from Michael Foley with Tim Kenneally in third spot.

The score showed 10-20 and Ennis remained ahead with only minutes left to play. The final whistle signalled Ennis’ well-deserved win over the organised Garryowen side.

Additional Results:

U14 Girls Cup: Fethard & District 31 – 0 Ennis

U14 Boys North Munster Cup: Ennis 29 – 5 Newcastle West

U18 Girls Cup: Clonakilty 38 – 12 Ennis

Fixtures:

U15 Boys North Munster Cup: Ennis v Newcastle West

Sunday 30th March

Kick-off at 11:00am in Drumbiggle

Senior Women AIL Promotion: Tuam

Oughtahard v Ennis/Kilrush

Sunday 30th March

Kick-off at 2:30pm in Tuam

Last week’s senior ladies scramble was won by Martina Corbett, Mary Kearns, Margaret Flanagan and Jean Moloney. In second place were Josephine Tone, Alice D’arcy, Brid Cunningham and Bernie Brooks.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB

Colin Higgins (15) with 43 points was the winner of the men’s singles at Woodstock at the weekend.

He was two points ahead of Paul Coote (12) with Paddy Meehan (10) in third on 40 points, Joseph Kennedy (16), also with 40 was fourth.

Winners in the 2’s competition were Davis Quinn (4th Hole) and Ronan O'Looney (7th Hole). There will be another club singles this weekend

The winner of the ladies 18 hole singles was Mary Gleeson (27) with 35 points.

KILDYSART GOLF SOCIETY This year’s first outing for Kildysart golf society members took place on a glorious sunny Sunday at Ennis last week. Captain Cyril Kelly presented the first prize to Chairman Bryan Hayes for his 39 points, followed by Liam Browne with 35, Mike Dolan with 32and Gary Brooks with 31. Joe Hogan won the front 9 with 15 points and Dylan Fox took the back 9 prize with 18. Next outing is to Cregmore on April 27.

CLARE FOOTBALL

The Tom McNamara Art Data Centres sponsored team of four golf classic in aid of Clare football will take place on Thursday and Friday, April 24 and 25 at Woodstock golf club. Funds raised from this event support Clare football teams from development squad level through minor, under 20 and senior teams can be booked through any member of the organising committee Colm Collins, Kevin Callinan, Paul Madden, Tommy Tubridy, Brendan Rouine, Michael Clancy, Donagh Vaughan, Ciaran Browne, Fergal Neylon, Seamus Hayes, Ger Kelly, Mary Farrell-Keane, Niamh Madigan, Martin O’Loughlin and David O’Brien.

l Tulla Utd's Éanna Culloo

Photo by Joe Buckley

l Alan Mulready finishes to the net for Bridge Utd

Photo by Joe Buckley

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

I AM golfing since 1990 and I finally took a long-awaited opportunity to travel to the home of golf, over to Scotland last Thursday with some college friends.

Like all of you, I have seen the vast variety of historic golf courses in Scotland over the past few decades on TV, magazines, and social media however I never took the step to travel there, possibly mainly because of the number of amazing courses we have on offer to play here in Ireland.

But I am now hooked on returning there after this unforgettable short trip and I am looking to arrange an annual trip back over to Scotland and begin to play the incredible amazing courses on offer there.

Last Thursday morning early, I drove to Belfast Port to catch the 11:30am ferry to Cairnryan in Scotland. The ferry ride itself is a modest two hour and fifteen-minute journey and thankfully the sailing was smooth as I am known to feel sea sick on some of our lakes.

Once we arrived in Cairnryan port it is just over one hour to reach

Prestwick town where you have almost 20 courses within thirty minutes of the surrounding area.

On the drive to Prestwick after a half-hour from the port you pass the doors of Trump Turnberry, a prestigious golf course which is a sister course to Trump Doonbeg here in Clare.

Trump Turnberry, like all the Trump resorts, leaves you with a want for more. Their courses are manicured to perfection, the food is always delicious and their staff friendliness leave you with a longing to return to their resorts. This course is a must play should you take that journey across the Irish sea.

Further up the road, another half an hour later we landed at Ayr town which has sprawled together with Prestwick town to become one vast townland area.

We stayed at the stunning Fairfield's Hotel where the staff and facilities were everything you could wish for and more.

The following morning, we travelled only 20 minutes to play Troon Lochgreen. This course like so many in Scotland starts off inside the town and extends its way southwards towards the countryside before finishing off back in the town to play the final 18th hole.

Troon Lochgreen, although it

is not a championship course, is where Jack Nicholas first played in a tournament to try to qualify to get into The Open Championship, which he managed to achieve and play in his first ever Open Championship.

The course partly links and partly parkland and it is a very enjoyable, well-manicured course to play and although it wasn't as challenging as our next two rounds it was an ideal friendly course for warming up for the tougher Championship courses, we had ahead of us.

Although it was the easiest of the courses we played, it still offered enough challenges to make it very enjoyable. Some of the holes were

shorter however hitting the fairways was key on the shorter holes if you are to score well.

The houses that surround some of the fairways of Lochgreen are big enough to mistake as hotels. You can easily get distracted by the styles and sizes of these mansions and their beautiful designs.

With green fees available under £40, Troon Lochgreen is well worth a visit early in your golfing trip to Scotland.

One of the nicest aspects of travelling to Scotland was how friendly everyone was to us. The Scottish truly love the Irish and everywhere we went, we were treated with open arms especially by the mem-

bers of all the courses we played. Every time I was packing away my clubs in the car park after the round, I was approached by members of the club to check if I had enjoyed my round and that they would love to see us back again in the near future.

I had heard about this friendliness before I travelled to Scotland but to experience it in person it definitely leaves you longing to return again.

In next week's article I will discuss our next round which we played at the stunning Dundonald Links Golf Club. Although I had never heard of this course before I will never forget my day out at Dundonald Links. From start to finish the resort was just amazing from the quality of the clubhouse to the incredible golf course, Dundonald links is a course everyone needs to go visit and play at. I will discuss in detail the whole resort and how you can play it early up until April every year for an incredible £199 for two rounds of golf and an overnight stay at their lodgings including breakfast which is an amazing rate considering the green fee alone in the summer is £245.

New members and visiting golfers encouraged to try Ennis Golf Club

NEW members are being invited to take advantage of Ennis Golf Club’s introductory membership offer of €695 for 2025.

Located on the outskirts of Ennis, the immaculately manicured 18-hole parkland course offers a full range of facilities including changing rooms, shower facilities, a pro shop, bar & restaurant and meeting room.

Alongside the introductory discounted membership offer, even more competitive rates are available for intermediate members (under 33) and junior members (under 18).

For those looking to get a taste of what the tree-lined fairways of Ennis Golf Club have to offer, the club’s annual Friday Open Singles begins this Friday. There will be weekly qualifiers who ultimately go through to the Grand Final on October 3.

The internal competition, sponsored by Martin Ward Golf, is open to men and women and welcomes members and visitors and offers a great opportunity for non-members to play at Ennis Golf Club.

Ennis Golf Club has a

thriving community of golfers with about 850 members, lending to a welcoming atmosphere at the club which is popular amongst societies and golf classics. There are in the region of 30 golf classics / societies booked in for 2025 however limited dates are still available (golf + catering options also available on request).

The club has a strong junior membership with its Junior coaching programme (8+) beginning on April 15, during Easter Mid-term.

Ennis Golf Club is also hosting a Poker Classic on April 18 to raise funds for

the running of the club. €30 entry fee, with a raffle on the night at Ennis Golf Club. For more information contact Mike Talty on 087 2663601.

Gihan’s Bar & Restaurant is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11-5pm with a full menu, welcoming casual diners, groups, christenings, communions, confirmation parties and more, they also cater for societies and classics.

For more information, call Ennis Golf Club on 065 682 4074.

l Troon Lochgreen is a very well manicured and enjoyable course

St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games showcases county's young talent

Brigdale on the double at Galway Stadium

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

THE A2 graded eighth contest over 525 yards was the feature event on Friday night's card at Galway Greyhound Stadium.

As the traps rose Blaze More Fire was away smartly in the centre and racing towards the opening bend she led Sir Rodger by a length with Cloneyogan Sydny in third place.

Turning down the back, Blaze More Fire extended her advantage to three lengths and between the final two bends the Kim Bennis & Tony Brigdale of Ennis-owned Blaze More Fire (Ballymac Eske-Blaze Bee) kicked again and she had four & a half lengths to spare over Cloneyogan Sydny at the line in 29.38 to complete a good evening for the Tony Brigdale kennel .

In the opening contest of the night - an S9 graded 350 yards affair - Davris Den towards the outer and Blaze Bay along the rails were both away well and opened up an early three-length advantage over their rivals. Racing around the opening bend the leading pair began to draw further clear and beginning the swing for home the Tony Brigdale owned Blaze Bay was beginning to assert. Drawing clear on the run home Blaze Bay (Slippery Robert-Sports Olivia) had three & a half lengths to spare over Davris Den at the line in 19.77.

The Master James McMahon of Cooraclare -owned Lisatouk Dave has always been a consistent performer and he notched up career win 16 in this A4 graded contest by making all the running to defeat Kelpie by a length and a half in 29.27. Away smartly from his trap two berth, the son of Laughill Blake & Lissatouk Dolly led Kelpie by over a length approaching the opening bend and railing well the winner more than doubled

his lead entering the back straight. Rounding the third bend Kelpie did begin to close but the winner dug deep close home to land the spoils .

In race 6 the Donal Cooney & Gerry Maloney of Broadford-owned Kildoo Babe showed plenty of determination in this A8 graded contest as she got up close home to deny the pace setting Lightfoot Tessie by a length and a half in 30.23.

The Semi Finals of the Rcets No Backgraders A3 525 yards Stake which carries a winners cheque of €5,000 were the twin features on Saturday at the same venue with the Semi Finals of the Race Entries By Text N2 Semi Finals also down for decision.

The outcome of the second Semi Final of the Entries by Text N2 525 Sweepstake was never in doubt as the Sean Meade of Miltown Malbay -owned Paradise Gomez (Ice On Fire & Paradise Asia) denied close home in the opening round made no mistake as she made all to defeat Momoko her conqueror last week by four & a half lengths in 29.52.

All six runners were away almost on terms for the Novice sprint with Winnie Be Slick first to break rank in the centre but she was quickly joined and passed by the red jacketed Aulton Wally. Despite a challenge from Ballyea Prince, the Pat Hogan of Ennis-owned, Vincent McKenna-trained Aulton Wally raced clear to score by three lengths at the line in 19.50.

On Saturday night in Limerick – Modig who is owned by Mrs Malin Kelly from Cooraclare recorded her fourth career success in 29.10. A daughter of Burgess Bucks and Crokers Wish she is in the professional care of Tullabrack based trainer Colm Fitzgearld.

ST FRANCIS Credit Union Clare Community Games had an extremely busy weekend with a number of indoor events completed.

TABLE TENNIS U13 BOYS

After a gap of 5 years, Table Tennis came bouncing back into the St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games calendar on Friday March 21.

Shannon Table Tennis Club kindly hosted the boys U13 table tennis tournament in Wolfe Tones GAA clubhouse and club members Kevin Bryant, Mariusz Kaluza and Lukasz Michalak kindly gave their time to umpire.

As there were three areas taking part, a round robin competition was held with each of the three team players playing 2 matches per round.

There were some exciting and close matches for the spectators to enjoy. After a couple of hours of table tennis the boys from Corofin-Kilnaboy won gold, winning 10 matches, closely followed by Doora-Barefield with 6. The young team from Quin-Clooney, who will all be underage again next year, picked up the bronze medals winning 2 matches. Best of luck to the team representing Clare in the Munster Finals in UL on April 26.

Gold – Corofin-Kilnaboy: Dylan O’Rourke, Tomasz Laski, Stanley Dukes and Joseph Dukes.

Silver – Doora-Barefield: Hector O’Halloran, Ronan Lahiff, Noah Crowe.

Bronze – Quin-Clooney: Donagh Skehan, Joe Hogan, Lucas Harrison, Jack Manley, Daragh McKee.

BADMINTON

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Badminton competitions for boys and girls was held on Sunday last in Clonlara Sports Hall. They were coordinated by Aileen Ahern and her officials. Only three teams participated in each. The Moylusa Red girls team won gold and now go on to represent Clare in the Munster competition weekend 26th/27th April in Limerick. 1st – Moylusa Red – Ciara Hayes, Doireann Moloney, Tina O’Shea, Aoife Slattery

2nd – Ennis St John’s – Eden Considine, Katie Eade, Brannagh Hayes, Eilidh Lucey, Mia Mc Namara, Gown Radish 3rd – Moylusa Yellow – Grace Kelly, Maggie Mc Mahon, Lucy Mc Namara, Lauren Walsh Forde.

BOYS

Moylusa were also winners in the boys competition and qualify for Munster. Gold – Moylusa – Dwane Byrnes, Ryan Crotty, Billy Hynes, Ryan D. Nolanm Mark Ryan Silver – Ennis St John’s – Dylan Casey, Enda Conway, Dominik Hildebrand, Darragh Hogan, Cathal Vaughan Bronze – Clarecastle/Ballyea – Bob Casey, Sean Casey, Darragh O’Connor, Eoghan Sherry BASKETBALL U11 MIXED

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games took place on Saturday last in Kildysart. It was coordinated very efficiently by Ellen Hubbard and her team of volunteers. Four teams participated. In the semi finals Quin/Clooney were the much stronger team when beating Ballynacally/Lissycasey White while Ballynacally/Lissycasey Maroon beat Kilrush. In the 3rd/4th play off Bal-

lynacally/Lissycasey White took bronze from Kilrush. The final was a much closer contest with Quin/Clooney edging ahead to win 5 – 3. 1st Quin/Clooney – Eugene Canny, Diarmuid Condon, Conor Davenport, Tomas Downes, Zoe Horan, Rachael Kelly, Caelan Lyons, Karen Mc Kenna, Hannah O’Callaghan, Aidan Reynolds 2nd Ballynacally/Lissycasey Maroon –Cillian Mc Mahon, Cara Coughlan, Saoirse Donnelly, Louise Geary, Roisin Mc Guane, Cillian Hill, Alan Kennedy, Chloe Lynch, Tomas O’Rourke, John Taaffe. 3rd Ballynacally/Lissycasey White –emma Cleary, Kate Considine, Ailbhe Daly, Liam Donnelly, Oisin Donnelly, Aidan Healy, Aoife King, Cathal Carmody, Anna Murphy, Darren Roche. 4th Kilrush – Niamh Browne, Caoimhe Burke, Abigail Copley, Adam Kelly, George Lillis, Jack Murphy Downes, Declan Nolan, Abbie Russell, Thomas Tuffy, Kate Zerafa.Quin/Clooney will now go on to represent Clare in the Munster competition weekend 26th/27th April in U.L.

GIRLS U16 BASKETBALL

The St Franis Credit Union Clare Community Games girls u16 Basketball final was held in St Flannan’s College, Ennis. It was coordinated by Paul Kennedy. Only two participated in the competition. Doora/Barefield proved to be the much stronger on the day and now go forward to represent Clare in the Munster competition in U.L. weekend of 26th/27th April 1st Doora/Barefield – Sarah Barry, Mitilda Barry, Andrea Barry, Tara Moroney, Lauren Morrissey, Erin Kennedy, Aoife Renolds, Hadia Ijaz, Siofra Burke, Sofie O’Connor 2nd Ennistymon/Lahinch/Liscannor –Roisin Mc Inerney, Nicole Thynne, Saoirse Shannon, Rosa O’Keeffe, Moyah Healy, Rebecca Mc Carthy, Melissa Callinan

BOYS U13 INDOOR SOCCER

The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Boys U13 Indoor Soccer were held in Corofin Hall. It was coordinated by Paddy Vaughan and his team of referees. 23 teams from across the county participated.

The four teams to reach the semi finals had very good matches with both Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tubber White and Doora/Barefield White narrowly beating Moylusa and Corofin/Kilnaboy Red. The final was also a very close contest with Crusheen edging ahead to win the gold and the opportunity to represent Clare in the Munster competition in Limerick weekend 26th/27th April. 1st Crusheen/Ballinruan/Tubber White – Gearoid Bennett, Oisin Collins, Sean Hayes, C.J. O’Doherty, Ciaran Ryan, John Scully, Cian Vaughan, Ryan Vaughan 2nd Doora/Barefield White – Liam Clune, Rian Deegan, Hugh Garvey, Dylan Mc Inerney, Conor Murphy, Nathan Nastarowski, Thomas Ryan 3rd Corofin/Kilnaboy Red – Albert Casey, Rian Cummins, James Howard, Rory Kenny, Thomasz Laski, Dylan O’Rourke, Joseph Dukes 4th Moylusa – Tim Curtin, Billy Hynes, Damian Kanik, Jack Kennedy, Ben Lenihan, Ryan Murphy, Max Nolan, Caleb Simpaon

l The Moylussa Boys Badminton team who won their event and will now represent Clare in Munster

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS PLANNING REF: P24/60573

Development Description: to extend existing derelict house and store to include living-kitchen-dining area, 4No bedrooms, bathroom and to install foul sewer treatment plant and percolation area

Location:

Craggykerrivan, Ballynacally

Take notice that J. Kelly has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P24/60573. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, New Road, Ennis, Co Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL. EAST END, KILKEE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane. ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Kilkee Waterworld CLG for planning permission to construct an extension to the rear of the existing swimming pool facility, along with all associated site works and services, at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant

permission. grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION/ REVISED PLANS

PLANNING REF: P24/60180

Development Description: The development applied for consisted of permission and retention permission. The development to be retained consists of change of use to restaurant (g.f.a. 277 sqm; net area 100 sqm) of part of the ground floor (from retail use) and first floor (from office use) of the existing two storey building, retention of an extraction vent and of an external refuse/bin storage compound on the western side of building and retention of external signage on western gable wall of the building.

The proposed development will consist of reordering and extension of the existing car park to the rear to provide 14 carparking spaces and 15 bicycle spaces, provision of bus pull-in on local road LP1088, provision of four onstreet parking spaces to the front along Main Street and ancillary works.

Location: Mermaid House, Main Street,

Liscannor, County Clare.

Take notice that Paddy Wagon Tours Ltd has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P 24/60180. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL GALLOWSHILL, CRATLOE, CO

CLARE

Take notice that Patrick Coughlan intends to apply for permission build a new dwelling, install a wastewater treatment system, create a new entrance onto the public road & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

61 GLENINA, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO

CLARE V95 EC8C.

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

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

within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

AHARINAGHMORE KILMORE

CO. CLARE

Take notice that Desmond (Dessie) Houlihan intends to apply for planning permission for A new single storey 3 bedroom house of 128m2 to replace the existing single storey 3 bedroom house of 128m2 as defective blockwork has been found in the existing dwelling, compromising its structural integrity. Existing access onto the public road is maintained in its current location. The current septic tank and well connections are to be maintained. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, CLONMACKEN, INAGH, CO. CLARE.

Take Notice that Shane O Sullivan SO Arch Tech Design (087) 3654995 intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Dillan DeLangen for planning permission to construct a single storey private double garage together with all associated site works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Dear Sacred heart of Jesus, in the past, I have asked for many favors. This time I ask for a very special one. (Here mention your request.) Take it, dear Jesus, and place it with your own broken heart, where your father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your favor and not mine. Amen.

Say for three days.

This is a very powerful 3-day miracle prayer and prays this prayer for 3 days and promise publication along with thanksgiving and your prayers will be granted.

N.H

Oh beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

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

Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in my necessity. (Mention your request here).

There are none that can withstand your power.

Oh, Mary, concieved without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3x). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands. (3x). Amen.

Say this prayer for three consecuitive days and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you.

To leave your prayer of petition to Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

&

. Domestic & Commercial

. Only top quality paints used, giving a high quality nish

. Thorough and reliable service guaranteed.

. C2 & VAT Reg. All areas Covered Call Mark on (086)-0561995 winderspaintinganddecorating.ie/ Follow us on Facebook

Duggan, Sr. M. Attracta (Maura) Ennis

Duggan, Sr. M. Attracta (Maura) Newmarket-on-Fergus

Connelly, Maura Kilnamona

Joyce, John Ogonnelloe

Joyce, John Bodyke

Recent Deaths

Meehan, James Kilmaley

POWER (née Kelleher), Maura Shannon

BRETT, John Parteen

Kenny, Brendan Clare

O’CONNOR, Barry Cratloe

Considine (née Higgins), Mary Lissycasey

GALVIN, Harold Cratloe

Geraghty (née Shannon), Martina Clarecastle

Nicholson (née Crotty), Breda Kilkee

WORD SEARCH

The Clare Echo Crossword

Airman

Apprentice

Author

Censor

Champion Citizen

Companion Court

Dictator

Director

Doctor Fellow

Friend

Hard Kin Lady

Lord

Member

Owner

Partner

Seaman

Showman

Town Ward

HOW

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.

1 Section of a book (7)

2 Of a pope (5)

3 Assuaged (7) 4 Idea (6)

5 Inflexible (5)

6 Alike all over (7)

7 Wood nymph (5) 13 Deserved (7)

15 One of the senses (7) 16 Calmed with drugs (7) 17 Sickness (6)

18 Capital of Bulgaria (5) 19 Floating markers (5)

Take an oath (5)

The Clare Echo Quiz

1. Where was groundbreaking author Edna O’Brien born?

Tuamgraney

Quin

Ennis

2. What Irish author has been longlisted for the 2025 Women’s Prize for Fiction?

Roisín O’Donnell (Nesting)

Claire Keegan (Small Things Like These)

Claire Kilroy (Soldier, Sailor)

3. When was the film Small Things Like These, based on the book by Claire Keegan, released in Ireland?

October 2024

November 2024

December 2024

4. What was Sally Rooney’s debut novel?

Normal People Conversations With Friends Beautiful World, Where Are You

5. Which Anne Enright novel won the 2007 Booker Prize?

The Forgotten Waltz

The Wren, The Wren

The Gathering

6. Fia and the Last _____ won Children’s Book of the Year Senior at the Irish Book Awards 2024…

Penguin Snow Deer Night Owl

7. What is the name of Sinéad Moriarty’s debut YA novel? The New Girl Good Sisters About Us

8. The film Room was based on the book by who?

Emma Donoghue

Marian Keyes

Sheila O’Flanagan

9. Which of the following books was not written by Maeve Binchy?

Tara Road

Circle of Friends

Anybody Out There?

10. What Irish novelist was named a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II in 1997?

Maeve Binchy

Iris Murdoch

Mollie Keane

(Nesting)

Spot the Difference

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

Last weeks Answers

Jack Dee (11) meets Irish players Matt Doherty left and Robbie Brady right ahead of Ireland’s Nations League playoff against Bulgaria last Sunday

Quiz by Emily Ross