The Clare Echo 29/01/26

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Jan 29 2026

JUST THREE COUNTIES WITHOUT GREENWAY Clare ‘losing out’ but planning bid finally on the horizon

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE is losing out as one of only three counties in Ireland still without a greenway, according to a local TD. “At a time when outdoor recreational tourism is increasingly popular, we are losing out. Clare should not be left behind while other counties benefit from the economic and social advantages greenways bring,” Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney said in a statement.

Custody for 4 in post office case

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

The four Clare men charged in connection with the robbery of Carrigaholt Post Office last Wednesday have all been further remanded in custody for a two-week period.

At Ennis District Court yesterday morning, the four men appeared in court via video link from Limerick prison.

In the case, Martin Downes (36) of Seafield Park Quilty, Michael McMahon (38) of Plunkett Drive, Kilkishen,

Darren Cassidy (38) of Lifford Mews, Lifford, Ennis and Darragh Pender (30) of Dun na hInse, Ennis are all charged with robbing Maura McKiernan, the post-mistress at An Post Carrigaholt, The Square, Carrigaholt of cash, coins and a cheque to the value of €8,944.63, contrary to Section 14 of the Criminal justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001.

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Subject to the availability of funding, planning permission for Section One of the Greenway from Kilrush to Kilkee is expected to be sought in the third quarter of 2026.

Section One is currently the most advanced element of the overall project.

When complete, the Greenway will stretch for approximately 100 kilometres, linking Kilrush with Ennis via Kilkee, Miltown Malbay, Lahinch and Ennistymon.

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Jan THE 29, CLARE 2026ECHO THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Thursday, Nov 13, 2025 THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 6, 2025

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Milestone for Money Ask theMatters Expert Ennistymon NS

lFarewell Victory for Cilléin Mullins Clare Ladies footballers Banner support in Ennis & Éire Óg are honoured

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l Clare ladies minor footballers; Cllr Paul Murphy, Cathaoirleach, Clare County Council with Clare ladies minor footballers and manager Barry Donnelly as they were honoured for their achievements at Clare County Council HQ; (inset) dual senior Corofin’s Cilléinwinners Mullins,Éire MarcOg O’Loughlin Luke Neylon after on beating Waterford side Stradbally in the Munster IFC championship were alsoand honoured at thecelebrate event. More P11 Photo by Eamon Ward Mickey Guilfoyle, Robert Clancy and Brian Pyne supporting Clare during the Oscar Traynor (Munster region) quarter-final vs Kerry in Frank Healy Park Photo by Joe Buckley club quarter-final. It was the last involvement of the season for Crusheen’s Mullins who departs for Australia.

Photograph: Burren Eye Photography

Councillors encounter gridlock in Mountshannon lion was attempts get Blake’s Corner update Studentsto receive Trinity College awards

actually a ‘friendly mouse’

byEIGHT Páraic McMahon students

a certificate and a include former Taofrom Clare have re- €150 book token. iseach Leo ceived prestigious Provost Dr V a r athat d - was a deer. “I’m not saying ELECTED members

by Dearbhla Parry of Trinity have now discovered Entrance Exhibition Linda the Doyle “It a kar. news@clareecho.ie Clare County Council are ‘lion’said, is in fact beautiful for certain that it is a lion, but awards from Trin- own is our Newfoundland great privilegedog, with a it does look to have a mane encountering their KILLALOE GARDAÍ have ity College Dublin these very snazzy haircut, named and a long tail. Some people gridlock inthe attempts to get solved mystery ofto a welcome inreported recognition wonderful Hats off to the even think that someone animal in ‘Mouse’.students clarity on the‘lion-like’ status ofof plans to Trinity College guards for clearing all of this might have shaved their dog the woodstraffic of EastperClare. to outstanding alleviate congesformances insightings their Dublin.

They deserve - I think this is one of the as a joke,” O’Reilly remarked Reported and up tion at Blake’s Corner. final school enormous credit stories for that will at the time, a comment which footage of aonexampotential lion humorous Three weeks from the go down the lore of our turned out to be true. inations. the hard work inand emerged last week with High county”. that “At a time when AI imagery A Court totalmade of dismissing 602 first- an commitment reports to Gardaí. application to bring a judicial The video was captured by and confusion as to whether once the brought yearHowever, students from allon have them review challenge against Forest the passing truck driver who online content is real or fake scene in Woodpark 32 counties of Ireland to this apoint.” proposed hauling timber. It is so rampant, it fell on the Parkoverseas in compulsory Mountshannon, and have pur-any Manyhad been former shows Mouse chase order the trace of for theEntrance lion Ennistywas gone received awardees have gone walking into guards in Killaloe Station to the woods and disappearing. investigate and to establish and garda investigators were mon inner relief road, elected Awards from Trinity on to make a signifForest manager O’Reilly the true facts,” Deputy Crowe unable to stuck confirmin whether members got their this year. icantlGRIDLOCK: contribution toJohn Blake’s Corner said that culturharvesters working explained. the identity of the animalinwas economic, efforts to source further Clare recipients the on the site had the Municipal District, can you in fact afrom lion.Brendan They “The outcome of spotted the High include al, and political life of formation the topreported table “lion” before, but only from that “enquiries were carried Court case in relation to the have a reply for next week”. beyond. of O’Halloran Clare County(Coláiste Council. Irelanda and distance and assumed out” accordingly. innerExhibitioners relief road at Blake’s it Director Kirby confirmed a Fhlannain), GoodPast In aGardaí statement released last in Killaloe have Corner, it said it dismissed a reply would be furnished for ness Akunna Fermonth the Highthe sincefollowing confirmed that gso-called u s oruling, n - U klion athe nwas a cCouncil h in o fact a judicial review project allow- the meeting.

Court Ennistymon’s inner relief (Coláiste Fly- named ing the project to proceed. Is said they Muire), “in partnership Newfoundland dog nn Egan ( whose SInfrastructure c o coat i l and that the definitive position,” road is intended to address ‘Mouse’ with Transport Mhuire Smál), notorious traffic congestion tail (TII)” hadGan been shaved Ireland would proceed to he asked.

(Scoil resemble that of of a lion.

“The Director of Services of at Blake’s Corner. The scheme to Eabha the next Healy stages the N67/ Sheosaimh), Alexa recent video Inner of a Relief lion-like Transportation, Carmel Kir- includes the construction of N85 Ennistymon Boucher (Kilmihil animal roaming around the by offered little detail when a new bridge upstream of the Road project.

These stages in-fact woods in East Clare is in Community College), replying, “I will come back to Michael Conway Bridge, peclude detailed design develthe very friendly Mouse, a you in the coming days on it destrianisation of the existRhoda Carey (Scariff opment, conclusion of land Newfoundland dog who is Community College), ing bridge, and public realm acquisition and planning delighted with his recentfor viral with correspondence”.

Melvin Caird (Joseph More surprisingly was the improvements. A CPO was theCommunity construction phase. video clip”. College), Cathal At Monday’s meetingCrowe of lack of reaction from elected approved by An Bord PleanáandClare TaraTD,Connolly members. Cllr Bill Slattery la in June 2022, however the (FF) told The Clare Echo, Clare County Council, Cllr (Ennistymon Com“Like many was (FG) stated, “I have a motion process was paused as the reShane Talty (FF)people, referredI to munity School). and intrigued the amused project’s mention in by thethe down on the exact question sult of a judicial review until 59 students rereported sighting of a lion in as Cllr Talty has asked for our the High Court decision. monthly management report. ceived awards from Mountshannon.

The guards 39 countries outside Ireland. Of the Irish awardees, 67 are from Munster. lACADEMIC: Alexa Boucher from Kilmihil Community College.

Awardees receive (Inset) Eabha Healy from Scoil Sheosaimh paraic@clareecho.ie

Photo by Paul Sharp

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Four men charged in connection with Carrigaholt robbery further remanded in custody for 2 weeks

by Gordon Deegan

McMahon (38) of Plunperson joint enterprise Armed Response Unit away drivers involved in kett Drive, Kilkish“who acted in concert (ARU) at 3.45pm last the alleged robbery en, Darren Cassidy and colluded in orWednesday aft erand confirmed to THE four Clare men charged der to carry out a noon, January 21st. the court that in connection with the robbery (38) of Lifford Mews, Liff ord, cold and calcuSgt Graham both men have of Carrigaholt Post Office last lated robbery”. said that during no previous Wednesday afternoon were all Ennis and Darragh Pender Opposing bail the case, items convictions. further remanded in custody for a (30) of Dun na for the four, Sgt were thrown Sgt Graham two week period. hInse, Ennis are Graham said from the alleged said that one At Ennis District Court yesterday that it will be second getaway of the four acmorning, the four men appeared in all charged with alleged that the car, a BMW, and cused, Darren court via video link from Limerick robbing Maura Martin Darren Cassidy McKiernan, the four member he said that GarCassidy on arDownes (36) (38) of Lifford prison. of Seafield strong gang “in- dai later recovered rest, had a receipt Mews, Lifford, Sgt Frank O’Grady told Judge post-mistress at An Park Quilty Ennis Post Carrigaholt, Th e volved two getaway €6,500 in notes and dated January 19th Alec Gabbett today that DPP direcdrivers and two mem- coins from the road. from Carrigaholt Post tions in the case are not yet avail- Square, Carrigaholt of cash, coins and a cheque to bers of the gang that entered Sgt Graham said that GarOffice stuck to his tracksuit able.

Judge Gabbett remanded all four the value of €8,944.63, contrary to the premises where the post mis- daí also recovered a Supervalu bag by chewing gum.

Section 14 of the Criminal justice tress was violently and viciously at the post office which is believed Sgt Graham said that after the in custody to re-appear via vid(Th eft and Fraud Off ences) assaulted with iron bars by to be used in the robbery getaway car drove off from the post eo-link before Ennis DisAct 2001. both males”. along with two metal office Ms McKiernan contacted trict court on February At Ennis District Sgt Graham was bars that were also Gradaí to raise the alarm and all 11th.

Court on Friday one of the memrecovered.

Garda mobile units in Clare were In court last Friaft ernoon, Sgt bers of An Garda Sgt Graham put on alert. day, Judge GabShane Graham Síochana who said that Gardaí Judge Gabbett said that the post bett refused bail on behalf of the was involved also later recovmistress was left with “very serious to all four and Gardaí success- in a high speed ered a quantity injuries” and after looking at phothe four accused fully opposed car chase across of cash from tos handed into court the judge can now seek bail and told the west Clare that the Post Office commented that Maura McKierbail in the High court that it is ended on the scene. nan “was left black and blue”.

Court. the Garda belief outskirts of EnSgt Graham Sgt Graham said that the GarIn the case, Darragh that the four men nis where the said that it will daí will be seeking that the cases Pender (30) Michael McMahon Martin Downes of Dun na before the court four suspects were be alleged that against the four be heard in the cir(38) of Plunkett (36) of Seafield hInse, Ennis Drive, Kilkishen charged with rob- apprehended by Mr Pender and Mr cuit court.

Park Quilty, Michael bery were part of a four members of the Garda Downes were the get-

news@clareecho.ie

Start of Spring marked with Imbolc Celebration at Bunratty Castle THE annual Imbolc Celebration, a vibrant festival honouring Celtic traditions and St Brigid, takes place at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park on Sunday, February 1st, from 11am-5pm.

The Clare attraction’s family-friendly event will feature a host of various seasonal activities, embracing the vibrant crafts, traditions, and customs that characterise the Spring season championed

by St Brigid, as well as offering a chance to meet a range of native Irish animals.

Events Manager at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, Marie Brennan, said, “Our Imbolc Celebration will bring visitors on a journey back to old Ireland to experience and learn more about Ireland’s pastoral traditions.”

“At Bunratty Folk Park, we pride ourselves on showcasing what life was like in Ireland at the turn of the last century and how the spirit of Meitheal and traditional crafts were prominent features in

communities across the island,” she added.

“Imbolc represents the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Spring Equinox and has been celebrated in this country since ancient times. We are keeping this tradition alive on February 1st, promising people of all ages a fun-filled, interactive and educational experience.”

Visitors will have a chance to learn how to make a St Brigid’s Cross, an iconic symbol that has graced Irish homes for centuries. Tom Delaney of Ould Crafty will guide guests through the traditional craft, demonstrating the meticulous process of weaving straw or rushes into the distinctive cross shape.

In addition to St Brigid’s Crosses, Tom makes traditional style baskets and other items from native willow. He also uses willow to make bird feeders, plant supports, boats and willow houses. Samples of his work will be on display on the

ST BRIGID: Traditional spinning and weaving at the Imbolc event at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park

Photo by Eamon Ward

day.

A variety of native Irish animals will be present, including Soay sheep, peacocks, pygmy goats, pigs, Kerry Bog Ponies and Irish red deer. Bunratty’s resident Irish Wolfhounds, Rian and Mide, will also be there on the day.

This is part of the visitor attraction’s ongoing work to increase awareness of native Irish breeds, and how they have formed part of Ireland’s social and cultural history throughout the centuries.

There will also be children’s entertainment from a host of characters located throughout the 26acre Folk Park, including visiting Seanchaí, Balor O’Brien, who will recall tales of bygone days and traditional ways at Mac’s Pub. As the Folk Park farm springs into life for the new season, the Clare Vintage and Engine Tractor Club will showcase an array of vintage agricultural machinery at work including corn grinders, water pumps and station-

ary engines over 100 years old, as well as a mini threshing machine.

Meanwhile, Konor the Clown will be performing puppet shows and balloon twisting on Village Street. Finally, no celebration is complete at Bunratty Folk Park without a rousing traditional music seisiún, which will also be taking place.

Standard entry prices apply. For more information, visit: https://bunrattycastle.ie.

Footie punter lands €48k free wager THERE were celebrations in Clare this week when a shrewd football punter landed a five-figure windfall.

The anonymous winner was gifted a €5 free bet by BOYLE Sports and struck the winning wager on a self-service betting terminal in one of their Banner county shops. The footie fan picked eight matches across last Saturday’s

league action, needing at least three goals to be scored in each game.

With goals flying in at West Ham, Burnley, Hull, Leicester, QPR and Sevilla, the flutter still looked destined for failure until injury time goals at Millwall and Rayo Vallecano in Spain rescued the coup and secured the mammoth sum.

Shortly after

the final whistle, the lucky winner was able to return to the shop and cash in their betslip for a grand total of €47,911.20.

A spokesperson for BOYLE Sports said, “We have to hand it to our County Clare customer for making a free bet go so far. It really was a magnificent set of selections and we hope they enjoy every cent of their winnings.”

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Mid West Healthcare public meeting

‘We failed Jessica’ - HSE admits fatal UHL surgery should not have been performed

A PUBLIC meeting will be held on the delivery of emergency healthcare services in the Mid West.

A recent report outlined three options: the increasing of capacity at UHL, the expansion of UHL to another adjacent site, and the provision of a new Model Three hospital in the Mid West.

TD Donna McGettigan (SF), who will chair the meeting, has long argued that a new hospital should be based in Ennis.

“We are organising this meeting to explain our position and give an update on the work we have been doing, but more importantly, to hear from those on the frontlines such as nursing unions, patients’ groups etc. We also want to hear from patients themselves and their families, who are suffering because of the failure of the current healthcare model,” said McGettigan.

Kathleen Funchion MEP for Ireland South, Maurice Quinlivan TD for Limerick, and Senator Joanne Collins from county Limerick will speak alongside Donna McGettigan, as well as Sinéad Madden PhD candidate at the University of Limerick, Founder of the Hybrid Simulation Modelling Lab (HSML) and author of the Midwest Integrated Demand and Capacity Analysis for Regional Emergency-care (MIDCARE) series of independent studies.

McGettigan continued, “We insisted that all Mid-West region TDs and Senators write to the minister demanding the simultaneous implementation of all three options in the report. Despite that, the minister has said she will look at the first two options and the establishing of a new hospital can be looked at later.”

“It will take years to build a new hospital, so it is vital that it is commenced as soon as possible. Otherwise, we will find ourselves back in this position as any new facilities will be overwhelmed as our population increases,” she said.

“We need the strongest possible coalition to demand that all three options are pursued. That is the only effective way to pressure the government. Otherwise, this report will come to be seen as another wasted opportunity to finally fix the healthcare service in the Mid-West.”

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

A YOUNG girl’s surgery at UHL leading to her death “should not have been performed,” the HSE have admitted.

Jessica Sheedy (18) from Bruff, Limerick, experienced complications in May 2018 during surgery to remove a large but benign tumour from her abdomen at University Hospital Limerick (UHL). She passed away three days later in the hospital’s High Dependency Unit after suffering multiple-organ failure and a significant bleed.

The HSE’s statement came after full admissions were made by Sheedy’s UHL doctor, who failed to sufficiently seek assistance from a vascular surgeon.

“Our i nv e s t i gations have concluded that adequate safeguards were not in place to prevent this highrisk operation,” the HSE have stated.

Sheedy’s surgeon, Dr Ashish Lal, has admitted to three counts of professional misconduct and 10 counts of poor professional performance at a fitness-to-practice hearing on Tuesday, January 20th.

Sheedy’s surgery “should not have been performed at our facility at that time,” the HSE have admitted. During the procedure at UHL, Sheedy had sustained a “massive haemorrhage in her abdominal area caused by an injury to her aorta,” RTÉ reported.

In response to this tragedy, HSE Mid West has conducted a further review of its surgical safeguards and clinical protocols

lSTATEMENT: University Hospital Limerick. (Inset) Jessica Sheedy

to ensure t h a t high-risk procedures are only conducted under the most stringent safety conditions.

Simon Mills, Lal’s senior counsel, put forward 19 conditions proposed by his client, which include a supervising consultant overseeing his return to practice and a request that Lal “should not be suspended from all general abdominal surgery,” according to the Irish Examiner.

An extensive plan would be needed for Lal’s return to surgical practice, Neasa Bird, counsel for the Medical Council, told the fitness-to-practice panel. However, she said this should not include his return to abdominal

surgery.

Sandra Broderick, Regional Executive Officer of HSE Mid West, said, “There is no doubt that we failed Jessica and her family. The failure was one of significant proportions, with clear catastrophic consequences.”

“We accept full institutional responsibility for the catastrophic and irreparable harm caused,” said the HSE. They claim that Sheedy’s case is a “specific and avoidable failure in care,” reassuring the community that it is not a reflection of their wider surgical and medical departments.

“Jessica lost her life because of a series of significant and avoidable clinical errors in the lead up to and during her surgery.”

The HSE CEO and regional senior leaders have met with Jessica’s family to express these sentiments directly. “It is with a profound sense of remorse and regret that Jessica lost her life owing to our failures,” said Broderick.

“On behalf of the HSE Mid West senior leadership team, we offer our most sincere and unequivocal apology to Jessica’s parents, Ann and James, their family and friends for their unimaginable and devastating loss,” said Broderick. “Their ongoing loss is something we can only ever try to understand.”

Since Sheedy’s death, Lal has been on a seven-year administrative leave from the HSE. According to The Irish Times, Lal had worked as a consultant surgeon at UHL for over five years before Sheedy’s operation.

The inquiry heard last week how two other complaints were made to the Medical Council, of which Lal was also the subject.

Both, however, were deemed not warranted of a formal fitness-to-practice inquiry.

The hearing for this case began on January 19th, and the committee will consider their judgment for delivery at a later date.

See: hse.ie/injuryunits

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Ennis woman subjected to ‘savage and unprovoked attack’ by husband at home in front of two young children

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

AN ENNIS woman subjected to an alleged “savage and unprovoked attack” by her husband in front of their two young children at the family home has told a court “I love him to bits”.

At Ennis District Court, the woman in the witness box described her 39 year old husband as “a family man” and referring to their children commented “Daddy loves them so much”.

In response to Gardaí objecting to bail for the man who is charged with assault causing harm of his wife, the woman said that she wants “to have him home”.

After the woman made her comments from the witness box during a contested bail hearing, Judge Alec Gabbett commented: “The trial in this case is likely to happen as rabbits are going to fall from the sky.”

Judge Gabbett said that he has already witnessed a movement towards withdrawal after hearing the woman’s comments.

Sgt Frank O’Grady told Judge Gabbett: “This case won’t be withdrawn - a file will be prepared for the DPP.” In response to the woman’s comments, Judge Gabbett said: “This is manipulation of the court as well as far as I am concerned.”

The woman said that was not under any pressure to make her com-

ments in support of her husband from the witness box.

Objecting to bail for the Ennis man, Garda Niall Moran told the court this was allegedly “a savage and unprovoked attack by the accused on his wife in front of their children” on January 22nd at the family home in Ennis.

Garda Moran said that the woman alleged that her husband “punched her to the face a number of times, knocked her to the ground and continued to assault her while on the ground”.

Garda Moran said that the alleged injured party said that he also kicked her to the face and there

were two children present at the time.

Garda Moran said that the woman alleged that her husband “was in bad form, started picking on her and name-calling”.

Garda Moran said that as a result of the alleged assault, the woman suffered a laceration to her hand

ASSAULT: Ennis District Court

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and her face and eyes were red and swollen.

Garda Moran said that she was bleeding from her hand and bleeding from her hip.

Garda Moran expressed a concern that if the accused is granted bail he will put pressures on the alleged injured party to withdraw her complaint.

Garda Moran stated that Gardaí observed the injuries sustained by woman when she arrived at the Garda station 20 minutes after the assault.

Under cross examination from solicitor, Tara Godfrey for the accused, Garda Moran said that at Garda interview, the accused provided an alternative version of what occurred.

The alleged injured party said that it is her intention to obtain a Protection Order against her husband.

Judge Gabbett said that he would grant bail but order that the man not return home and reside at a different address in order to address the interfere with witnesses concern.

Judge Gabbett remanded the man on bail to appear before Ennis District Court on Wednesday. He commented: “I may revoke bail at that stage.” The parties cannot be named as it is a domestic violence assault case before the criminal court.

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Reinforcement to be added to bog road closed since 2024

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

A BOG road closed since the end of 2024 is finally expected to reopen later this year.

The Clare County Council plans on adding Geogrid Reinforcement to a section of the Dereney Road, subject to the Climate Adaptation grant.

The notice of motion submitted by Cllr Pat Burke (FG) at the January Killaloe Municipal meeting asked, “The Clare County Council to provide an update on the Bog Road between Dereney and the Ash Tree cross in Whitegate which has been closed now for over 12 months.”

The bog road was closed in the interest of safety by the Council in December 2024.

“They had been repairing it and had done a good job, but because of the boggy nature of the ground, the road just collapsed completely,” explained Burke.

The Clare County Council received Climate Adaptation funding last year for investigations on the “failed section” of the Dereney road L-8096, Michael O’Grady, A/ Senior Executive Engineer, explained. A tender for a consultant was carried out to identify the existing ground conditions, with an investigation and soil testing required.

The investigation revealed there was 2m of made ground on top of a peat layer extending down to 11.5m with a stiffer clay and soft bedrock layer.

Soil samples of each layer over the depth of the boreholes were recovered and sent for testing. O’Grady said, “We have received a preliminary report outlining the options of repair,” the preferred method of which was to add Geogrid Reinforcement. “It’s literally big sheets of a type of plastic that are stacked on top of each other, and then the finished surface is laid on top of that,” Burke explained.

“It’ll take heavy traffic, but it’s very light in weight, so hop-

lCLOSURE: Bog road as part of Dereney Rd

ing that it won’t sink then.”

“Geogrid is what Bórd na Móna would have used a lot up the Midlands in the bogs for taking traffic.”

Burke told The Clare Echo that three farmers in particular are affected by the road’s closure, one of whom is “majorly inconvenienced” with regular detours by tractor from the edge of the road to his farmland in Galway. “It’s a public road at the end of the day and it has to be repaired.”

Burke is confident that repairs will take only a week or two in April, May, or June.

“The earlier the better,” he added. O’Grady told councillors, “Works will be carried out on site in Q2 2026,”

New special classes announced for Ennis and Spanish Point SCHOOLS in Ennis and Spanish Point are to benefit from significant investments.

The announcement comes as part of the second tranche of new special classes allocated nationwide, which will see a record number of new special classes sanctioned across the country to open for the 2026/2027 school year.

Expressing his delight at the allocation, Minister Timmy Dooley (FF) said, “I am

delighted today to hear from my Fianna Fáil colleague Minister Michael Moynihan that two new special classes have been allocated to County Clare. Included in the allocation is Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg Inis in Ennis and St Joseph’s Secondary School in Spanish Point” He added, “These additional resources will have enormous benefits for students, teachers, and parents in Clare. Everybody is entitled to an education.”

with the aim of reopening the L-8096.

“I trust that they know what they’re doing,” Burke said about the project’s engineers and surveyors. “I hope that this option will work.”

“I thought it would happen last August/September,” he admitted. The repairs did not go ahead because the Council were procuring contractors to carry out the survey, which was when they discovered 11.5 meters of peaty ground under the road.

The Council have applied for funding under the Climate Adaptation grant to carry out the road repair works in 2026. Burke told The Clare Echo, “I’m reliably informed that the application will be successful in the interest of the public.”

O’Grady added, “We are currently waiting for the final report to be issued as some soil test had yet to be completed prior to issuing the preliminary report.”

Other options of repair included Vertical Drains, Soil Mixing, Deep Foundations, Embankment Construction, Lightweight Aggregates, New Route Alignment, and closing the road, which Burke added, “obviously I wouldn’t be happy with at all.”

€150k for historic buildings in Clare Over €150,000 has been announced for the protection of historic buildings in Clare.

The Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS) supports the repair, restoration and protection of historic structures from traditional homes to landmark public buildings across Ireland, in our cities, towns and villages and across the wider countryside. The scheme covers restoration work to historic buildings such as roof and wall repairs and works on windows and doors.

The funding is provided by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage’s National Built Heritage Service and is administered by the local authorities.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD (FF), remarked, “This funding under the Built Heritage Investment Scheme will ensure that the architectural legacy of past generations continues to survive in towns, villages, and rural communities in Clare and across the country.

The preservation of our built heritage relies on our taking action today to repair, maintain, and secure the integrity of these buildings with the care and attention they deserve.

Along with new initiatives such as the revised Living City Initiative, the improved

and expanded Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, the Built Heritage Investment Scheme helps to preserve our past while also securing our future by maximising use of existing building stock and helping to prevent or reverse vacancy, dereliction, and underuse.”

Clare projects funded today include: l€10,000 for windows, doors and shopfront of Walls Shop, Main Street, Ennistymon. l€20,000 for roof repairs to Monument House, Frances Street, Kilrush. l€25,000 for windows, doors and associated elements at St Columba’s Church, Bindon St, Ennis.

Minister of State with responsibility for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD (FF), added, “Built heritage in Ireland isn’t just about great houses and magnificent public structures. Often, the architectural jewel in our towns and villages is a historic building where people meet, live or work.

The Government is committed to helping communities and individuals to keep these buildings alive, prevent them from falling into ruin and ensure that they are in good health for future generations. At the same time, we are supporting the traditional craftspeople in Clare and throughout the country whose special-

ist skills turn history into homes, community hubs and businesses. I trust that the €8.1m funding provided this year will have an enormous impact, and I look forward to seeing how the projects progress over the course of the year.” €8.1 million has been awarded nationally through the Built Heritage Investment Scheme. Of the total funding, almost €1.1 million has been earmarked for works to thatched buildings, made up of almost €600,000 from the dedicated Historic Thatched Buildings stream, plus an additional €490,000 from the mainstream of the BHIS. In addition to the public funding provided under BHIS, an estimated €35 million of private funds will be committed to these projects by owners and custodians, further enhancing the investment in Ireland’s built heritage and representing an effective partnership between the State, individuals and communities around the country.

lHOUSING: James Browne TD

Photo by Andrew Downes

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Planning bid for first section of West Clare Greenway expected in Q3 2026 THE Minister for Transport has confirmed that planning permission for a key section of the West Clare Greenway is expected to be sought in the second half of 2026.

Section One of the Greenway, from Kilrush to Kilkee, is currently the most advanced element of the overall project.

When complete, the Greenway will stretch for approximately 100 kilometres, linking Kilrush with Ennis via Kilkee, Miltown Malbay, Lahinch and Ennistymon.

Clare County Council is progressing the project broadly along the line of the former West Clare Railway. The Greenway is intended to improve recreation, leisure and amenity opportunities for local communities, while also offering a high quality, sustainable tourism experience for visitors to West and North Clare.

The project has been divided into four sections for delivery. Section One is at Phase three of Transport Infrastructure

Ireland’s Project Management Guidelines, which covers design and environmental evaluation. It is being advanced in line with the Code of Best Practice for national and regional greenways.

Clare TD Joe Cooney (FG) said the update represents a significant step forward for the active travel project. “This is a very important milestone and reflects the substantial work already undertaken by Clare County Council.”

He also expressed frustration that Clare remains one of only three counties in the country without a greenway.He said, “At a time when outdoor recreational tourism is increasingly popular, we are losing out. Clare should not be left behind while other counties benefit from the economic and social advantages greenways bring.”

In a response to Deputy Cooney, Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said, “All three non-statutory public consultations covering

the study area, route options and emerging preferred corridor have been completed. Engagement with affected households and landowners is ongoing and is generally progressing positively, with one-to-one negotiations well under way.

Subject to funding, voluntary land acquisition agreements will continue through 2026, with the aim of reaching mutually beneficial outcomes.”

Deputy Cooney also noted the announcement earlier this month that several greenway projects in Clare will benefit from the National Transport Authority’s (NTA) Active and Sustainable Transport Investment Programme. These include €500,000 for the Kilrush to Kilkee section of the West Clare Greenway, €350,000 for the O’Briensbridge to Scariff section of the Limerick to Scariff Greenway, €200,000 for the Ennis to Ennistymon Greenway, and €65,000 for the Ennistymon to Miltown Malbay Greenway.

lGREENWAY: Cllr Cillian Murphy (Cathaoirleach of West Clare Municipal District), Pat Dowling (Chief Executive of Clare County Council), Leonard Cleary (Director of West Clare Municipal District), Seán Lenihan (Senior Engineer of Clare County Council), Eoin O’Cathain, Roughan & O’Donovan (Consulting Engineers), Carmel Kirby (Director of Physical Development for Clare County Council), and Cllr Joe Killeen (Leas Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council)

Photo by Eamon Ward

In addition, Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien has confirmed to Deputy Cooney that section two of the West Clare Greenway, from Ennis to Ennistymon, is currently at Phase two of the TII project management guidelines, which covers option selection.

Work on the options selection report is ongoing, and once complete a preferred route corridor will be identified and

published, followed by public consultation. This is expected to take place in the fourth quarter of 2026.

“While it is disappointing that Section 4 from Miltown Malbay to Moyasta did not receive funding this year, the progress being made on Sections One and Two and funding to support further development of Section 3 is encouraging,” Deputy Cooney said.

News

9

Irish language interest up 25% INTEREST in Irish Language grows in Clare as weekly Conversation Circle launches in Bunratty.

Clare interest in the Irish language is on the rise in, with Google search data showing a 25% yearon-year increase in searches for the term “Gaeilge” across the county.

Ahead of Seachtain na Gaeilge in March, local businesses are beginning to respond to this renewed engagement with the language. One such example is Durty Nelly’s in Bunratty, which has launched a new weekly Irish language conversation circle aimed at people in the locality who would like to speak and learn Irish.

The event, Comhrá & Caint,

takes place every Monday night at 8pm in the local bar in Durty Nelly’s and offers a relaxed, informal space for people to speak Irish.

Durty Nelly’s has also taken part in the An Clár as Gaeilge initiative, supporting greater visibility and everyday use of Irish in Clare businesses.

Organisers say the goal is to create a welcoming, pressure-free environment where Irish can be used socially, regardless of fluency level.

The event is open to all, with no booking required.

Comhrá & Caint / Guinness & Gaeilge: lDurty Nelly’s, Bunratty lMondays at 8pm lOpen to all levels

10

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Cemetery wall falling on graves: ‘Somebody has to be responsible’

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

RESPONSIBILITY is needed for an old cemetery wall falling on loved ones’ graves.

The boundary wall of O’Briensbridge cemetery collapsed at the end of May and has since become a major obstacle for visitors to the graveyard, with stonework falling onto inhabitants of the burial ground. “People couldn’t tend to their graves or go and lay wreaths for their loved ones,” Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) told The Clare Echo. “Plus the fact that it’s a boundary wall between a private dwelling and a graveyard.”

The notice of motion submitted by O’Brien at the January Killaloe Municipal meeting asked, “That Clare County Council engage with the stakeholders of the O’Briensbridge graveyard with a view to rebuilding the boundary wall which collapsed.”

This “huge inconvenience,” O’Brien estimates to be a couple of hundred years old, with its age being the main cause of its fall. However, he mentioned a struggle in garnering responsibility for the wall’s demise; “People are saying that they’re not responsible. Somebody has to be responsible.”

Leonore O’Neill, Senior Executive Officer, Rural and Community Development, responded, “The Clare County Council are happy to engage with the stakeholders of the O’Briensbridge graveyard.” The Rural Community Development Officer for the area intends to contact the burial ground committee to discuss a resolution.

Content with the response, O’Brien said, “Speaking to the

people in the Council and speaking to the local engineers, I feel it’s going to be positive.” “There is engagement now, and it’s proactive and hopefully the issue is going to be resolved.”

“I’m happy that engagement has taken place.” O’Brien has spent the last year advocating for repairs. Prior to this meet-

ing, O’Brien had met with the Clare County Council and O’Briensbridge community groups. “At long last, it’s taken a long time,” he admitted.

O’Neill also brought the council’s attention to the Clare Local Area Grant Scheme, which provides support for community graveyards. The scheme provides support for community graveyards under three categories: Maintenance Works (Max Grant €1,200), Boundary Repairs (Max Grant €10k), and Provision (Max Grant €10k).

The Maintenance Works grant is for the purchase of trees, shrubs, maintenance equipment, petrol, and other items required to carry out the maintenance of the burial grounds.

The Boundary Repairs grant focuses on the essential repairs that contribute to the structural stability of boundary features. Priority is given to projects that demonstrate a clear need for structural repair and a strong potential for improving the appearance and safety of the burial grounds. “Interested applicants should submit a detailed project proposal, including costs and timelines, along with evidence of the need for repair and any supporting assessments or inspections, if available,” O’Neill explained.

The Provision grant goes towards the cost of extending an existing burial ground or providing a new community-operated burial ground, including the provision of a columbarium. Costs can include acquisition and development costs.

Online applications for 2026 opened on Friday, January 9th and will close on Friday, January 30th at 4pm. Potential applicants can submit an Expression of Interest to burialgrounds@ clarecoco.ie.

Over 200 vacant or derelict properties brought back into use in Clare FIGURES released by the Department of Housing, Local Government show that 221 previously vacant or derelict homes in Clare have been brought back to use, thanks to €12.93m in funding to Clare applicants under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant since the scheme launched.

The figures also reveal

that there is a robust pipeline of projects set to transform vacant and derelict properties into use as homes in Clare as there have been 713 applications and 487 approvals since the introduction of the grant in July 2022.

Nationally, as the scheme continues to gain momentum, the pace of delivery has also

ENNIS ACA STREETSCAPE ENHANCEMENT SCHEME Clare County Council invites applications from eligible candidates for grant assistance under the above scheme.

Those eligible to apply include; •

Property owners/occupiers whose commercial building is located in the Ennis Town Centre within the boundary of the Architectural Conservation Area (ACA).

•

Residential property owners whose standalone residential property with ground floor accommodation (not apartments) directly adjoin Public Realm Works ‘Project A’ or ‘Project B’.

Full terms and conditions, and a map of the area covered by the scheme can be viewed at https://www.clarecoco.ie/council/about-the-council/ municipal-districts/ennis-municipal-district/ennis-acastreetscape-enhancement-scheme-2026 Applications will be accepted online only from Monday February 2nd 2026 at http://eses.clarecoco.ie Any queries can be emailed to eses@clarecoco.ie The closing date for receipt of completed applications is: Friday 27th February 2026, @ 5pm.

increased significantly, with the rate of grant payments in 2025 more than doubling compared to 2024. In total last year, 3,066 grants were paid out nationally compared to 1,349 in 2024.

This represents an increase of 127%.

Overall, between July 2022 and December 2025; 16,607 applications have been received, 12,096 approved and 4,514 grants paid out on completion of works to a total of almost €247m.

W e l coming the new figures, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD said: “This grant is tackling the scourge of dereliction and vacancy head-on, and the surge in vacancy grant payments underlines its growing success in bringing homes back into use across our villages, towns and cities including here in Clare.

As more and more applications are approved, I fully anticipate this trend to continue and more previously disused properties will become permanent homes for people.

“In a time of housing shortage, leaving properties vacant is simply unacceptable.

That’s why, last month along-

side extending the grant until 2030, I also introduced an enhanced support package of up to €140,000 to transform vacant ‘above shop’ spaces into homes—revitalising communities and creating sustainable housing. The extended support package will be made available at the end of Q1 2026.

“Tackling vacancy and dereliction is not just a priority, it’s a necessity to ensure exi sti n g properties a r e put to use for housing.

I would encourage anybody in Clare who is interested in availing of the scheme to check it out and engage with the local authority.”

Under the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, you can receive a payment of up to €70,000 to turn a vacant or derelict house or former commercial building into your permanent home or a rental property. The grants are paid upon the completion of the works and the submission of the required paperwork demonstrating the work approved has been delivered.

11 a.m. Tuesday 17th March 2026

2026 Theme ‘Ennis – Wicked for Good!’

Ennis Municipal District encourages individuals, groups, clubs and societies from all over County Clare to contribute to a vibrant Ennis Street Parade this St. Patrick’s Day. The theme this year allows for endless interpretations and opportunities to perform. Those who do stretch the imagination will be rewarded with prizes under the following categories; •

Most creative float

•

Best interpretation of theme

€400 €400

•

Most entertaining entrant

€400

The Mayor of Ennis, Cllr. Mary Howard commented that “St. Patrick’s Day brings a huge opportunity for communities to come together to showcase and celebrate all that is good about Ennis. We have such a vast and diverse population of communities and each brings their own individual colour and animation. This year’s theme “Ennis – Wicked for Good” allows for a wide and fun interpretation where children and adults alike can really mix it up with costumes. We look forward to the biggest ever parade in Ennis and encourage everybody to join in.”

Application form: www.clarecoco.ie/your-council/municipal-districts/ennismd/saintpatricks/ Contact ennisparades@clarecoco.ie for a paper copy.

Completed application forms must be returned on or before before Friday, 20th February, 2026.

Postal address: The St. Patrick’s Day 2026 Organising Committee, Municipal District of Ennis, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare Email: ennisparades@clarecoco.ie

11

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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2025 sporting champions honoured A MAYORAL Reception held in the Council Chamber at Áras Contae an Chláir on Friday evening paid tribute to the All-Ireland winning Clare Ladies Minor Football Team, and dual hurling and football county champions Éire Óg Inis.

The event, hosted by the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy, celebrated the Clare Ladies Minor Football Team on securing the All-Ireland Minor B Championship, while Éire Óg were honoured for winning both the Clare Senior Hurling and Football Championships.

The Clare Ladies Minor Footballers’ path to All-Ire-

land glory was marked by resilience, teamwork and a consistently high standard of football that captured the admiration of supporters across the county. Similarly, Éire Óg’s remarkable achievement in securing both the Senior Hurling and Senior Football titles underscored the club’s depth of talent and its unwavering commitment to excellence.

The ceremony brought together players, families, club representatives and elected members to acknowledge the dedication, commitment and exceptional talent that defined the teams’ achievements throughout the year.

Cathaoirleach of Clare

County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy, said, “These awards recognise dedication, teamwork and community spirit at their very best. The Clare Ladies Minor Football Team and Éire Óg have inspired us all, on the pitch and beyond, and we are proud to honour them on behalf of the people of Clare.”

The Cathaoirleach expressed his gratitude to all who supported the event, noting the important role played by clubs, families and communities in nurturing sporting excellence. These sentiments were echoed from around the floor by his fellow elected members and by the council executive.

SPORTS: (L-R) Barry Donnelly (Clare ladies minor footballers Manager), Cllr Paul Murphy (Clare County Council Cathaoirleach), and Aisling Crowe (Clare ladies minor footballers Captain)

Photo by Eamon Ward

Paywalled sport and unfair contracts are fuelling ‘dodgy boxes’, warns MEP INDEPENDENT MEP Michael McNamara has warned that the paywalling of live sport, combined with opaque and unfair consumer practices by broadcasters, is actively fuelling digital piracy across Europe.

Speaking in the European Parliament during a debate on piracy and sports broadcasting, McNamara said that while illegal streaming is a genuine problem, policymakers must confront the commercial practices that are pricing ordinary people out of watching sport legally.

“Digital piracy is a problem,” McNamara said. “But putting all live sport behind paywalls, rolling over contracts without transparency, and squeezing fans with ever-rising costs is not acceptable either.”

McNamara pointed in particular to practices by major broadcasters, including Sky, which recently argued before an Irish court that it was under no obligation to inform customers when contracts were ending or to highlight alternative or cheaper offers, instead rolling contracts over automatically at existing prices.

“That argument was rejected by the court, applying EU law,” McNamara said. “It’s a clear example of how EU consumer protection rules matter in people’s everyday lives.”

The MEP warned that such practices, combined with the near-total migration of live sport behind paywalls, are eroding public access to events that once played an important

social and cultural role.

“Shared moments like Italia ’90 or Euro ’88 brought communities together. Increasingly, those shared experiences are reserved only for those who can afford ever more expensive subscriptions.”

McNamara also highlighted the inconsistency of sporting bodies receiving significant public funding while allowing access to their competitions to be increasingly restricted.

“When access to sport becomes unaffordable or unfair, it should surprise no one that some people turn to so-called ‘dodgy boxes’,” he said. “If we want to reduce piracy, we must address its causes not just its symptoms.”

McNamara concluded by calling for stronger enforcement of consumer law, greater transparency in subscription practices, and a re-

n e we d debate a b o u t public access to sport in receipt of state support.

News

12 12

Thursday,May Jan29, 29,2025 2026THE THECLARE CLAREECHO ECHO Thursday,

Regional News

News

North Clare

East Clare

Brigid’s Day & Imbolg Community Festival returns to Ennistymon

Young Sixmilebridge student presented with €1,500 scholarship

ENNISTYMON will come alive this Brigid’s Day with a rich and welcoming three day community festival.

Running from January 31st to February 2nd, the festival celebrates the start of the celtic season Imbolg and the turning of the year from Winter into Spring.

Tke part in workshops, music, storytelling, art, foraging, a community procession, and more. Locals and visitors alike are invited to honour Brigid, the Cailleach, and the reawakening of the natural world.

Festival Programme Saturday, January 31 l11:00am – 12:00pm: St Brigid’s Day & World Wetlands Day Tree Planting l5:30pm – 7:00pm: Brideóg-Making Workshop l7:30pm: Open Storytelling Evening (Pot Duggans)

A YOUNG Sixmilebridge farm student was one of the four recipients of a €1,500 scholarship.

Cian McInerney of Pallaskenry College was presented the 2025 John Feely

lFESTIVAL: St Brigid’s Crosses

Sunday, February 1 l10:00am – 11:30am: Foraging Walk with environmentalist Oonagh O’Dwyer & herbalist Tara De Róiste l12:00pm – 3:00pm: Brigid’s Cross Workshop l2:00pm – 3:00pm: Poetry Reading For Brigid’s Day with Rita Ann Higgins & Jessie Lendennie l5:30pm: A Special Musical Experience with Méabh McKenna & Simon

Foundation scholarship at the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Assocation’s (ICMSA) Head Office in Limerick last Friday.

Speaking to the gathering of friends

and families, ICMSA President, Denis Drennan, said that ICMSA and the John Feely Foundation were determined to commit funds and energy to the education of young farm

Photo by Myriam Riand

Reilly, with Art Installation by Myriam Riand l8:00pm – 10:00pm: St Brigid’s Night Céilí (Teach Ceoil) Monday, February 2 l1:30pm – 2:30pm: Brigid’s Spark: Artists’ Conversation l3:00pm: Dress-Up for the Procession l5:00pm: Imbolg Procession l6:00pm: Hush Disco

students. This was in accordance with the conviction of the legendary ICMSA President, for whom the scholarships were named.

Addressing Cian and the other young farm students, Drennan cited the increasing complexity of the issues around farming.

He highlighting the need for more advanced training and education, and urged young people to realise that they must involve themselves in farm organisations. He also advises them to “step up” if the particular requirements of their generations were to get the attention and detailed responses needed.

lAWARDED: (L-R) Mary McInerney, Cian McInerney (scholarship recipient), Denis Drennan (ICMSA President), and Laura McInerney

Award-winning schoolwear from Sixmilebridge business A SIXMILEBRIDGE company supplying uniforms to schools across the Midwest has launched a school partnership programme.

Run by award-winning business woman Cara O’Malley, TCM Schoolwear has earned a strong reputation for premium, durable uniforms, easy online ordering, and responsive customer service.

In a move set to strengthen communities, the accredited Irish schoolwear provider has unveiled a comprehensive partnership programme designed to make school uniforms easier and more reliable for families, schools, and staff.

Cara believes the partnership initiative promises to deepen ties with schools by delivering a seamless experience from order to delivery, while reinforcing school identity and student pride.

“We work closely in collaboration with the school. We take all the stress that goes with ordering school uniforms from the schools.

We give the school a designated portal on our website and either the school or parents can order directly from the website. They can then pick up their orders or have the orders sent by courier, whatever works for them,” she tells The Clare Echo.

TCM Schoolwear has grown since its establishment two years ago and now operates nationwide, currently providing schools across County Clare, Limerick and Kerry with premium, durable uniform pieces that provide great value for money..

At the helm, Cara admits, “I love what I do.” She is well known in the community having run Tomorrow’s Child Montessori for more than 15 years while Cara also runs a fitness class catered for children. TCM Schoolwear spawned after Cara began supplying local primary school St. Finnachta's eight years ago.

“My approach is, the journey is equally as important as the destination so if we’re delivering consistently excellent customer service, exceptional quality, the success follows naturally. We are committed to providing all of our customers with excellent quality and exceptional service at every step of the way”.

Cara has been recognised by the All-Ireland Business Foundation as Entrepreneur of the Year, and TCM Schoolwear has earned the Business All-Star Award — accolades that underline the company’s commitment to quality, service, and innovation.

They offer dedicated school collections, allowing each partner to have a tailored listing that simplifies shopping for parents, with options for coordinated fittings, parent evenings, and term-start pick-ups.

Cara is inviting local schools to express interest via email or phone. Interested schools or districts can reach out to TCM Schoolwear via: - Email: tcmschoolwear@gmail.com - Phone: 061 713529 - Website: www.tcmschoolwear.com

13

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Ennis

Ennis concertina player wins Comórtas Bonn Óir Seán Ó Riada

CONCERTINA player Ríona Hely from Ennis won the Seán Ó Riada Bonn Óir 2026 competition on Friday.

The event took place at the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork and was broadcast live on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta on the programme Cuireadh Chun Ceoil, presented by Peadar Ó Riada.

The Seán Ó Riada Gold Medal competition is a prestigious traditional music competition that focuses on a different instrument every year over a four-year cycle. This year’s competition was for metal reed instruments including the accordion, concertina, and harmonica. Ríona was presented with a bespoke gold medal, designed by Niamh Utsch, and a cash prize of €2,500.

Ríona is from Ennis, Co Clare. She is in

her second year in University College Cork, where she is studying music and Irish. A regular at Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann and at Siansa, she has won her fair share of medals and is doing her best to pass on the tradition by teaching classes in Cork and Clare. Ríona is particularly interested in the old-style concertina playing and is influenced by the playing of Elizabeth Crotty and Kitty Hayes, who came from west Clare.

15 competitors took part in this year’s final, from all corners of Ireland Photo by Darragh and two from the US. Kane The Bonn Óir Seán Ó Riada 2026 competition can be listened back to on the programme Cuireadh Chun Ceoil on RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta’s website, and on the RTÉ Radio Player.

Regional News

7% attendance increase at Injury Units MORE than 53,000 patients avoided unnecessary long waits at the busy Emergency Department during 2025 by attending the three Mid West Injury Units at St John’s, Ennis and Nenagh Hospitals.

The three units processed a total of 53,489 minor injuries This was 6.9% greater than the regional attendance total for 2024. Today, more than one in three of all unscheduled care patients attending HSE acute hospitals

across the region are seen in one of our Injury Units.

Injury Units patients are typically seen and treated in under two hours, with follow-up reviews in the unit arranged as required.

UHL continues to experience a daily average of 280 ED attendances in the year to date.

For All Ireland-winning Tipperary senior hurler Craig Morgan, access and efficiency is all important when it comes to treatment of

 HEALTHCARE: Mhairi Barron, Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner at the Injury Unit in Ennis Hospital

sports injuries. After injuring his hand in a county championship match with his club Kilruane MacDonaghs last year, Craig attended Nenagh Injury Unit and was on the road to recovery in no time. “I find the Nenagh Injury Unit really handy when I get an injury. You’re normally in and out in less than two hours and the care you get is exceptional.”

Dr Joe Kelly, Consultant in Emergency Medicine at University Hospital Limerick and St John’s Hospital Injury Unit, explained, “You can avoid long waits in the Emergency Department by attending our Injury Units.

If you have an injury that is not life-threatening, our expert team can treat you quickly and efficiently, and most people are treated and home in under two hours.”

One important characteristic of Injury Units is the nursing grade of Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner (RANP), senior specialist nurses who can, like doctors, lead the patient’s care journey from admission right through to discharge.

RANP Mhairi Barron, based at Ennis Injury Unit, which in 2022 was refurbished in a €2m service investment, explained, “When patients attend the Injury Unit, they will be seen by either an RANP or a Doctor.

ANPs can see all patients within criteria, and perform a full episode of care. It’s this skills mix that ensures timely, efficient care for minor injuries--rapid, efficient, high-level care with good outcomes.”

Cloughleigh return to the stage CLOUGHLEIGH Drama Group are delighted to be back on stage after a three year hiatus.

Their latest production is The Maiden Aunt, the hilarious 3 Act Comedy by Jimmy Keary.

The group have been busy rehearsing since late Autumn in preparation for their upcoming four night run in Cloughleigh Community Centre (V95K31X) on Friday February 6th, Saturday February 7th, Friday Febru-

ary 13th and Saturday 14th, commencing nightly at 8pm.

This will be the fourth production by Cloughleigh Drama Group, who first took to the stage in February 2019, with Sam Cree’s Desperate Beds.

The play centres on the Murphy family, farmer Dan, his wife Mary and son John Paul, who is more interested in music than farming.

Gertie O’Grady, Mary’s aunt who is a retired teach-

er and spinster comes to stay after a spell in hospital. Mary tries to persuade her aunt to make a will. We see John Paul and best friend Jarlath and their shenanigans and scheming. Mary wants to impress her posh friend Caroline Quinn, who is president of their local ICA guild, but Gertie has other ideas.

When Gertie apparently ‘dies’ Dan enlists employee Francie to help him carry out his elaborate plan to get his

hands on Gertie’s money. Will Paula Moore the Solicitor spoil all their fun?

Tickets are priced at €15 and are available to purchase from Paco Clothes Shop, Greenacres Fruit & Veg, Cornmarket and O’Brien’s nearby Cloughleigh Road.

Cloughleigh Drama group will also be making a donation to Sláinte an Chláir and Milford Hospice, two very worthy causes close to the group’s heart.

14

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Regional News

Shannon

Success of ‘Task Teams’ to be discussed at first Network Meeting of 2026

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Community Partnership are holding their first Network Meeting of 2026 this Tuesday, February 3rd.

This event, welcomed by Wassim Derguech of Future Mobility Ireland, will celebrate the group’s 2025 achievements while also learning about upcoming projects and finding out how you can get involved.

Part of the panel event will be discussing the progress of Shannon Community Partnership’s ‘Task Teams’, a project bringing different groups of people together to improve the various areas of the community: From arts/culture to community and housing.

Set up last year, each Task Team have their own list of projects and events that they are working on, such as the Clare Mela and St Patrick’s Day Parade. “They’re very, very active volunteer groups,” Don O’Sullivan, Vice Chairperson of Shannon Community Partnership, explained.

The event will be opened by the Chairperson of Shannon Community Partnership, Siobhán Boyd, before representatives of each of the teams talk

lPANEL: Shannon Community Partnership Board

about their impact, otherwise known by the group as the ‘Impact Card’, answering how many people were involved, how many hours of volunteering were completed, and what they achieved.

Attendees will hear from guest speaker Martina Minogue, Social Enterprise Development Officer of Clare Care, while they enjoy refreshments from Smitz Café.

Tuesday’s event will be teams’ first time meeting in nine months, and their first meeting of 2026. “It’s a way of announcing to the people of Shannon that

it is up and running, there have been quite a few successes in it, and there’s lots more to go.” Attendees will see what the groups achieved in 2025 as well as what projects they have planned for 2026.

One of Shannon Community Partnership’s goals is to invite more people to join their Task Teams. O’Sullivan encouraged, “If there’s something that you think we’re doing that you like and you want to do more of it, or if there’s something we’re not doing but you have some good ideas, more volunteers are al-

ways needed.” Your voice and participation can make a real difference to help create a stronger, more vibrant Shannon.

“If you’re not already in a Task Team, then maybe it’s something to consider.”

The first meeting the group had was last year when the teams were initially formed. O’Sullivan told The Clare Echo, “People came together and said they were interested in being part of the groups. Since then, we’ve been trying to encourage those groups to also bring other people on board.”

Shannon Community Partnership provide a formal community development structure for Shannon Town, advocating for improved services and facilities, facilitating a representative voice for the people of Shannon, and supporting the promotion of Shannon as a great place to live, work and visit.

The Network Meeting takes place on Tuesday, February 3rd, from 6:30pm-8:30pm at the Future Mobility Campus Ireland in Shannon (V14 WV82). RSVP by visiting the Shannon Community Partnership’s website (www. shannoncp.ie) and clicking the ‘RSVP’ button under the Network Meeting page.

Shannon school approved for extension

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

ST CAIMIN’S Community School in Shannon has been given the green light to proceed with their planned extension.

Two schools in Clare have recently been granted permission to extend, the other school being Clarecastle National School.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) said, “Both schools have ambitious extension plans and I look forward to seeing these additional spaces come online.”

“Whilst these extensions won’t be completed in time for the coming school year, I hope construction will be swift on both projects and can bring around the boost in student spaces in areas which are currently seeing a bottleneck.” €155.25m has been provided in capital funding for schools across Clare since 2020.

This included the upgrade of 28 schools, either through provision of a new school building, a large-scale extension, or modular education.

Seven school projects in Clare are current-

ly under construction. This summer, nine of the schools have been approved to undergo works as part of the Summer Works Scheme/ Climate Action scheme.

Crowe added, “I have been working closely with a number of other schools around County Clare who are also looking for extensions to their schools and I have received assurances that there is still scope for further projects, which were not included in the announcement, to proceed and I will be

pushing very hard for them to receive the goahead from the Department of Education.”

Additionally, 43 special classes have been opened in Clare, five of which were sanctioned for September 2026.

“This is all very welcome investment in education in Clare and I will continue to push for further projects to receive the funding and approval that schools around the county have been looking for.”

Traffic up 14% in Shannon Airport for St Brigid’s Bank Holiday

SHANNON Airport is set to welcome over 24,000 passengers across the upcoming February bank holiday period.

This figure represents a 14% jump on the same time last year, as the popularity of St Brigid’s bank holiday getaways soar.

The early long weekend is encouraging travellers to swop the January blues for blue skies, with the airport’s Lanzarote and Malaga flights among the most in-demand. Passengers are also opting for city breaks with the Spanish capital Madrid, which joined Shannon Airport’s ‘25 winter schedule with twice-weekly flights on Saturdays and Tuesdays, proving popular for a long weekend of culture and cuisine.

Airport Director of Shannon Airport, Niall Kearns said: “We’re delighted to see such a strong start to 2026. A 14% jump in passenger numbers for the St Brigid’s bank holiday period highlights just how eager people are to take advantage of winter sun and short breaks. We have year-round options to the Canary Islands, Spain and Madeira, so people are really spoilt for choice when they choose to fly from here. This year we’ll have 40 routes from Shannon which, when put together with our award-winning customer service and hassle-free experience from the car park to the gate, means we’re looking forward to really busy and successful 2026.”

Of the 40 routes available from Shannon Airport in 2026, there are 5 new services in the upcoming summer schedule including Rome, Warsaw, Poznan and the continuation of Madrid with Ryanair. In April Discover Airlines launch their new, twice weekly route to Frankfurt which will provide onward connection to Lufthansa’s wider global network.

An expanded daily summer service to Boston with Aer Lingus also offers more choice for transatlantic travellers, with over 350,000 seats available to the US from Shannon Airport for Summer ’26.

For an even more hassle-free experience travelling through Shannon Airport, passengers flying out this weekend are advised to download the Shannon Airport app which gives them everything from parking to flight details, right at their fingertips.

15

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Regional News

Gort & South Galway

Bus passenger threatened after calling out offensive comments about Jews and immigrants

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 51-year old man told a female bus passenger that he would put her through the bus window after she confronted him over offensive comments he was making about Jews and immigrants, a court has heard.

At Ennis District Court today, Insp Morgan O’Donoghue said that the injured party in the case was travelling on the Express Way service from Cork to Galway on August 27th 2024 at Glenbrack, Gort, Co Galway when she overhead a male unknown to her make offensive comments about immigrants and Jews.

Insp O’Donoghue said that the woman confronted this male, Paul Druse of no fixed abode in Co Galway and “told him to keep his opinions to himself and in response Mr Druse called her ‘a witch’ and told her he would ‘bash her through the window if she was a Jew’”.

Insp O’Donoghue said that Mr Druse then stood up and raised his fist before telling her he was going to put her through the window.

Insp O’Donoghue said that the woman subsequently moved to the rear of the bus and CCTV was obtained by Gardai which displayed the incident in its entirety.

Judge Alec Gabbett imposed a two month prison term on Mr Druse after he pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace contrary to Section 6 of the Public Order Act on the date.

Judge Gabbett said that “you can’t be frightening people on public transport with racist commentary it is not acceptable”.

Insp O’Donoghue said Mr Druse has 158 previous convictions and three of Mr Druse’s previous convictions concern “sex offender lists” and he had 11 previous convictions for Section 6 of the Public Order

Act. The court heard that Mr Druse is a native of Northern Ireland and his 158 previous convictions include 49 from Northern Ireland but no further detail was provided on his Northern Ireland convictions.

Judge Gabbett asked was the woman of the Jewish faith and Insp O’Donoghue said no.

Insp O’Donoghue described the comments made by Mr Druse as ‘flippant’.

Mr Druse is currently serving a sentence and not due for release until July of this year and from the custody suite in court told Judge Gabbett that “I have had awful trouble from drink over the years and I am not that type of person when sober”.

Mr Druse told Judge Gabbett that he is now addressing his drink problem in prison. He said: “I am going to turn away from drink.”

Solicitor, Daragh Hassett said that his client, Mr Druse has signif-

icant mental health problems and was “ranting and raving unforuntatel y ” on the bus.

M r Hassett s a i d that his client “ w a s n’ t well at the time and w a s n’t thinking straight”.

Mr Hassett said that Mr Druse “meant no harm and I am sure the lady was very upset. He apologises profusely for his very, very bad

behaviour. She didn’t deserve what she got but he wasn’t singling her out. He wasn’t well.”

Former Alderman of Milwaukee celebrates friendship with Galway MAYOR of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard, welcomed Former Alderman of Milwaukee, Michael Murphy, to City Hall last week as part of a Mayoral Reception in honour of his special friendship with Galway over many years.

Former Alderman Murphy has opened countless doors for Galway City in the United States over the years, with his parents having emigrated from Dublin to the United States with just fifty dollars in their pockets and a determination to build a new life. One of the greatest values they instilled in their five children was a deep obligation to give back to America, while never forgetting Ireland.

Former Alderman Murphy was joined at the reception by his wife Terry, his daughter Maggie, his brother Dave, and Cailín Branchford, from CelticMKE, organisers of Milwaukee Irish Fest.

Michael became a true friend of Galway in 1992, when a delegation from Galway including the late Clem Walsh, Gerry Rabbit, Anne Melia, and Galway City Council’s current International Relations Officer, Keith Finnegan travelled to Milwaukee to attend Irish Fest.

From that moment on, Michael embraced Galway’s ambitions wholeheartedly. Legend has it that during the 1993 visit, he even persuaded the Mayor of the day to rename Lake Michigan as Galway Bay at least for the duration of the visit!

Speaking at the reception, Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard said, “Michael Murphy’s public service record speaks

US: Former Alderman Michael Murphy, Milwaukee with Mayor of the City of Galway, Cllr Mike Cubbard

Photo bu Cormac MacMahon

for itself. First elected at just 27 years of age in 1989, Michael went on to become Milwaukee’s longest-serving alderman, retiring in 2024. At the time of his retirement, he was

the third-longest serving council member in the city’s history a distinction that places him in rare company, not unlike Galway’s own Donal Lyons, Terry O’Flaherty, and Declan

McDonnell.”

Mayor Cubbard gave special recognition to the Irish Fest in Milwaukee as part of the reception. The Irish Fest in Milwaukee is largest gathering of Irish people in the world outside the island of Ireland. Founded in 1981 by Ed Ward and the Ward family, whose roots are in County Meath, the festival has grown and grown over the decades while remaining firmly grounded in family and community.

The Ward family remains deeply involved today, with Mayor Cubbard acknowledging those who continue to drive Irish Fest forward, thanking them for their leadership and for being such strong champions of Galway City.

Michael Murphy’s support for Irish Fest, the Ward family, and its four thousand volunteers has been immense. The Galway delegation has attended Irish Fest for 31 years, with only two interruptions the Foot and Mouth outbreak in 2001 and the Covid pandemic in 2020.

Research by Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland has shown that Galway’s consistent participation in Irish Fest has directly contributed to increasing tourism figures from North America year on year.

Mayor Cubbard thanked Michael Murphy for his continued friendship, support and service and presented him with a souvenir of the special occasion, a handmade glassware showing the Claddagh Hooker.

16

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Green Clare

New interactive story map showcases the Shannon Estuary as a haven for wintering birds & wetlands CLARE County Council, together with Kerry County Council and Limerick City and County Council, have launched a new interactive story map celebrating one of Ireland’s most important and biodiverse rich landscapes, the Shannon Estuary.

Designed to support education, awareness and public engagement, the map is targeted at local schools and communities living along the estuary, and anyone with an interest in nature.

Featured in the map are profiles of 21 wetland bird species, which are designated as part of the River Shannon and River Fergus Estuaries Special Protection Area (SPA). It also includes mapped viewing point locations where the public can observe wetland birds in their natural environment. The map promotes public participation in citizen science initiatives, such as Birdwatch Ireland’s Irish Wetland Bird Survey and includes resources that encourage responsible behaviour to minimise disturbance to wetland birds, along with information on how to reduce the spread of invasive species.

Clare County Council’s Biodiversity Officer, Barry O’Loughlin, said, “We hope that the story map can be used as a platform where the public can engage with wildlife in their local area. The number of Community Biodiversity Action Plans continues to grow in Clare and there is now a real opportunity to link the story map to local community action and education.”

Limerick City and County Council Biodi-

lINTERACTIVE: Clare, Kerry, and Limerick County Councils launch new story map

Photo by Alan Place

versity Officer, Sinead McDonnell, said, “The Shannon Estuary is one of Limerick’s greatest natural assets. This story map brings together biodiversity, history and place in a way that is accessible and engaging, particularly for schools and local communities. By understanding the estuary better, we are better equipped to protect it for future generations.”

Kerry County Council Biodiversity Officer, Eleanor Turney, added, “From iconic sites like Carrigafoyle Castle, to the rich wildlife along the estuary’s shores, Kerry’s connection to the Shannon Estuary is both cultural and ecological. This collaborative story map

Environmental group calls out push to develop LNG infrastructure THE government plans to build a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) for liquified natural gas (LNG) in Cahiracon.

Despite Minister Darragh O’Brien’s recent admission that the state will miss its 2030 emissions reduction targets by a significant margin, the decision to build Ireland’s first LNG terminal appears to be imminent.

In order to fast track this process, the government is bringing forward legislation that would give the minister direct power over planning approval for the LNG terminal, instead of going through the usual An Coimisiún Pleanála procedure.

After pushback from committee members, it was agreed that pre-legislative scrutiny will take place in an expedited timeframe of four weeks with just one week long of consultation open to members of the public (closing date January 30th).

Although Ireland banned the ecologically destructive practice of fracking in 2017, the proposed LNG terminal in Cahiracon, could import fracked gas from the US to Ireland.

For approximately two decades, multinational fossil fuel corporations have attempted to construct a new LNG terminal in the Shannon Estuary at Ballylongford, Kerry, less than 40km from the site of the proposed LNG terminal at Cahiracon.

Environmental campaigners have been engaged in a decades-long fight against these plans, including several high court battles.

“The way in which Minister O’Brien is trying to force a LNG terminal into Irish legislation is an insult to Irish democracy,” said Sinéad Sheehan of Futureproof Clare.

“If this bill is passed the LNG facility could and most likely will import ‘drill baby drill’ fracked gas from the

US, which will feed the Irish data centre boom. Relying on Donald Trump’s gas from the USA is not energy security, it is geopolitical insanity.

“The Strategic Emergency Gas Bill that the Minister does not want scrutiny on is new legislation that would give him ultimate decision-making power about whether or not a LNG terminal is built in Ireland without proper consultation or public participation in decision-making.”

Tom Spillane, fourth year planning student at TU Dublin and member of Futureproof Clare said, “One week public consultation for a bill with significant consequences is not acceptable. This is merely a tick the box exercise rather than meaningful consultation.

It’s baffling as to why Minister O’Brien wishes to push through legislation that will allow for major fossil fuel infrastructure to be constructed in Ireland at a time of climate crisis.”

highlights the estuary as a living landscape, shaped by nature and people working together over centuries.”

The story map invites people to explore,

learn about and value the estuary’s biodiversity, protected habitats, and promote responsible behaviour — helping to build understanding and care for this extraordinary place. The map aligns with the Strategic Integrated Framework Plan for the Shannon Estuary which promotes sustainable economic development underpinned by strict environmental protection in the estuary.

The launch of the Birds of the Shannon Estuary Story Map coincides with World Wetlands Day, an event which raises global awareness around the critical importance of wetlands.

The initiative is led through the roles of the Biodiversity Officers in Clare, Kerry and Limerick City and County Councils and funded through the Local Biodiversity Action Fund and the local authorities. The Biodiversity Officer Programme is delivered in partnership with the Heritage Council. The digital map was published in collaboration with Wetland Surveys Ireland.

The Birds of the Shannon Estuary Online Digital Story Map is available to view at: arcg. is/0Hjz9z1

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Green Clare

17

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Green-Schools launches newly translated suite of Irish language resources AN Taisce’s Green-Schools held an event in Galway on Thursday to launch the programme’s suite of Irish language resources including handbooks, teaching resources and dedicated web page.

Green-Schools, an initiative of An Taisce, is now in its 27th year and boasts more than 3,200 schools actively participating in the programme around the country, with more than 250 of those being Ionaid Ghaelscolaíochta. The programme’s thematic approach allows school to focus on wide ranging themes including waste management, biodiversity, sustainable travel, water awareness, global citizenship, and issues related to the marine environment. Each of these themes is supported by a team of Green-Schools officers and a handbook which serves as a guide throughout the two-year cycle of work on any given theme.

The translation into Irish of each of these is a welcome development of the GreenSchools programme, thanks to the support and funding of an Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta (COGG).

Speaking about the project, Jacqueline Ní Fhearghusa, Príomhfheidhmeannach COGG said, ‘Buíochas ó chroí le foireann chlár na Scoileanna Glasa as a gcuid díograise leis an togra seo.Tá an- áthas ar COGG maoiniú a chur ar fáil don togra seo agus is mór againn an comhoibriú le Clár na Scoilean-

na Glasa. Tá sé ríthábhachtach go mbeadh na hacmhainní seo a dhíríonn ar chosaint ár dtimpeallachta ar fáil ar ardchaighdeán as Gaeilge do ghaelscoileanna, gaelcholáistí

agus scoileanna Gaeltachta ag an dá leibhéal.’

(COGG is delighted to fund a project like this and

GAEILGE: Green-Schools committees from five Ionaid Ghaelscolaíochta around the country pictured at the University of Galway for An Taisce’s Green-Schools Irish language resource launch. (Inset) Róisín Ní Bhraonáin, Aoibhe Ní Bhriain & Alice Nic Cárthaigh from Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg, Clare, helped launch Green-Schools Irish language resources

Photo by Simon Boyle

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we have great respect in working with Green-Schools. It is so important that resources that focus on protecting the environment are available in Irish for gaelscoileanna, gaelcholáistí and schools in the Gaeltacht of both levels.)

The launch was held in the Michael D Higgins auditorium of NUIG and attended by gaelscoileanna and gaelcholáistí from different regions around the country, who presented their work on the Green-Schools programme to attendees.

Speaking at the event, Joanne Scott, GreenSchools Programme Manager, said, ‘The launch of our Green-Schools handbooks in Irish is a hugely significant milestone for the programme. It ensures that schools can engage with sustainability through the language of our culture and heritage, strengthening both environmental education and the Irish language. We are deeply grateful to COGG for their support and funding, and we are so proud of the gaelscoileanna and gaelcholáistí involved today.’

18

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Contributors

As January comes to an end, prepare your shrubs JANUARY is coming to an end the evening is getting brighter as we approach February.

The garden may be wet and not able to do much yet but we can check our shrub beds and prune them back as well as dead wood.

By pruning this time of year you are taking out old diseased and dead wood, which will improve the quality of the new growth. Your roses, apple, and pear trees will also benefit from a prune. Top dress with farmyard manure to add organic nutrients.

It’s also a time to plan and prepare our pots for sowing seeds in the coming weeks, such as sweet peas and hardy annuals.

It’s time to plant bareroot hedging - They don’t mind the rain if the ground is hard from frost, though you may need to wait.

Evergreen varieties include laurel and grislina. The laurel has a larger leaf while the Grislina has a smaller oval leaf. Both are good, strong, and robust when mature (and easy to maintain).

If you are looking for something nice for your pots, adding bulbs like snowdrops and bluebells are a lovely addition, along with some nice flowering primroses.

Lots of shrubs are in stock, some flowering selections like viburnum tinus and hebe are a great addition to any garden or beds.

We have some lovely bird houses available and a selection of food to help the birds this time year.

We also have a lovely new range of grave plaques if you would like something unique to leave on a grave side.

So, this February, I look forward to new stock arriving and being able to start the tunnels. What are you looking forward to this Spring?

Thought for the week When love breaks us open Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY WE all have a story, a tale to be told, for we are all on our human journey.

Every heart carries unseen chapters. Every soul is shaped by love and loss.

And because of this, we all need grace and blessings.

Last week, for my birthday, my beautiful caring and loving wife Jacqui and my two beautiful, amazing and fabulous daughters, Mia and Sophie, brought me to see the film Hamnet. I was not simply moved. I was opened. I sat in the dark between three of some of the people I love most in this world and I felt something deep inside me begin to crack.

As I watched a 16th-century family lose their son, I found myself face to face with my own life, with old wounds I thought were healed, and with a love that has carried me through them. Sometimes God does not come to us with explanations. Sometimes He comes with a story or a testimony and lets it break us open so He can finally reach us.

Grief teaches you something terrible and holy at the same time. Nothing is guaranteed. Whether it is the loss

of a loved one, the death of a dream, or the slow acceptance of our own limits, at the core is the same quiet sorrow.

And yet, even here, Scripture whispers, “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” (Psalm 73:26). We do not survive by being strong. We survive by being held.

In Hamnet, grief enters quietly. Agnes breaks outwardly.

William breaks inwardly. He writes not to fix the pain, but to survive it. Sometimes faith looks less like answers and more like endurance. God does not always remove the valley. He walks it with us.

In the final scene, the audience reaches toward the stage, united in shared sorrow. And I felt it in my bones that Grief is universal. We are all bound together by love and loss.

Thought for the Week As your thought for the week, I gently challenge you to do three things: Tell someone you love them and mean it slowly. Not in passing. Not distracted. Look at them. Let yourself be seen.

Share a fear, a sadness, a memory you usually hide.

Vulnerability is not weakness.

It is the doorway to intimacy.

Notice one ordinary miracle each day. A child’s laugh.

A spouse’s hand. A quiet cup of tea. Write it down. Thank

God for it. Because none of us are promised tomorrow, only today.

Let me leave you with one of my prayers for a Tendered Heart - “Lord God, You see how easily we harden ourselves just to survive. You know how often we mistake silence for strength and distance for protection. Teach us again how to be human and tender hearted. When we are tempted to close our hearts, make us brave enough to keep them open.

When we are afraid to feel, remind us that even Your Son wept. Help us not to rush past love, not to take for granted the people beside us, not to assume we will always have more time. For every child, every spouse, every friend, every colleague, we say quietly today: thank You. Turn our wounds into wells of compassion. Turn our losses into gentleness and tenderness.

Turn our tears into deeper love. And when our hearts are broken, because we love in a fragile world, come close to us, O God. For You are near to the brokenhearted. Amen.”

Ps... If you go to see Hamnet make sure you bring plenty of tissues. It’s an awesome film with two fabulous Irish actors in the main roles.

Best of luck to Jessie Buckley and Hamnet at the Oscars later in the year!!

Beannachtaí na féile bríde / I mbolg oraibh Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA TÁ súil agam that you are all ag súil le saoire bainc na Féile i mBolg/Féile Bríde.

On this special day in Inis Oírr, where I grew up, the cailíní would, and still do, siúl ó theach go teach carrying a large babóg called a “Brídeog” (the girls themselves are called “na Brídeogaí”) to represent Naomh Bríd and would collect airgead while entertaining na comharsain (neighbours) with a poem celebrating our National Matron Saint. Much like na buachaillí do on Láil’ Stiofáin or Lá an Dreoilín. Láil’ Bríde and Féile i mBolg have influenced ceilúradh theacht an Earraigh (the coming of spring/rebirth)

l CROIS BHRÍDE: Michelle agus Seán le leagan tríchosach Mháirtín Taimín as Inis Oírr den Chrois Bhríde

all over the world, including Groundhog Day sna Stáit Aontaithe.

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com Imeachtaí/Events: lSIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am, chuile Dé Domhnaigh. lCILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar. lSIONNA – Siúlóid Dúlra/Nature Walk, Dé Domhnaigh, 11am, Community Room (Gaeilge le Chéile ar Facebook). lLUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach. lCLARE FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM. lCILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm. lINIS – 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. lLUIMNEACH – Ciorcail Comhrá. Chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 10.30am, Bialann Eden, Oll coil Luimnigh.Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Noel ag 086 792 8389. lAN SCAIRBH – “Lón i nGaeilge”, 1-2pm, CHUILE DÉ MAIRT i gcaifé “An Gáirdín”, fáilte roimh chuile dhuine.

19

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Business IHF Shannon Branch names Stefan De Souza ‘Employee of the Year’ STEFAN De Souza has been announced as the 2026 Irish Hotels Federation (IHF) Shannon Branch ‘Employee of the Year’.

The announcement was made at an awards ceremony at the Radisson Blu Hotel Limerick, where guests gathered to celebrate and recognise nominees from hotels and guesthouses across the region who have made an outstanding contribution to their workplace.

Congratulating Stefan, Trainee Manager at Great National South Court Hotel, on the award, IHF Shannon Branch Representative, Dermot Kelly said the judges highlighted Stefan’s interest in his career development, his ability to work in a team and his approachable attitude when selecting him as the winner.

At the event, IHF President, Michael Magner said, “Our nominees represent the very best of our profession that thrives on dedication, innovation and the development of its people.

There has never been a better time to start a career in tourism and hospitality in a sector

l EMPLOYEE: (L-R) George Leahy (Midlands Park Hotel & Judge), Deirdre Fitzsimons (IHF Director of People Services), Stefan De Souza (IHF Shannon Branch Employee of the Year), Michael Magner (IHF National President), and Dermot Kelly (IHF Shannon Branch Representative)

Photo by Brendan Gleeson

that supports 270,000 livelihoods across Ireland including over 25,000 across the Shannon.”

Stefan has worked at Great National South Court Hotel for just over a year.

Having worked at a variety of hotels in India, Stefan enrolled in a master’s degree in Shannon College of Hotel Management, which he completed in September 2025 while working at the

Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competitions. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels for the areas set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

• Assistant Chief Fire Officer Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 12th February 2026

• Technician Grade 1 (Civil, Architectural & Building) Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 12th February 2026 Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section.

Only applications completed online will be accepted.

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

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

Great National South Court Hotel, initially as a receptionist before moving into the role of Trainee Manager.

Colleagues say “Stefan’s analytical thinking, combined with his ability to translate ideas into structured plans demonstrates a capability well beyond his tenure.”

Other award presentations on the day included a ‘Rising Star Award’ for Chloe Branigan, Sales & Events

Executive at the Savoy Hotel, and a ‘Special Recognition Award’ for Ursula McNamara, Hotel Administrator at the Inn at Dromoland.

The IHF Shannon Branch extends its gratitude to the expert judging panel of Bernadette Enright, Project Manager at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board, and George Leahy, General Manager of the Midlands Park Hotel who had

the difficult job of selecting a winner from the nominees.

The members of the IHF Shannon Branch wish Stefan the very best of luck as he goes on to represent them at the upcoming National IHF Employee of the Year Awards, which will be held during the IHF’s Annual Conference at Gleneagle, Killarney in late February.

Clare’s golf ‘on par’ with Orlando TOURISM Ireland’s golf promotional programme for 2026 kicks off this week at the PGA Show in Orlando, Florida.

27 golf and tourism operators from Ireland, including Dromoland Castle and Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg, are taking part in this important event in the golfing calendar.

The PGA Show is one of the biggest golf exhibitions in the United States and attracted around 30,000 golf professionals and journalists last year.

On day two of the show, Tourism Ireland organised a panel discussion for top American golf journalists. The panel included Fraser Thomson, Director of Golf at Adare Manor; Kevin Friend, Executive Producer of Golfing the World TV; and Kyle Phillips, President of Kyle Phillips Golf Course Design. The panel discussion provided an excellent opportunity to highlight our superb golf, as well as the fact that the Ryder Cup will take place at Adare Manor next

year.

Alison Metcalfe, Tourism Ireland’s Head of North America, said, “The American golf market remains a priority for Tourism Ireland in 2026 and we will continue to promote Ireland as a top golf destination.”

“We’re also taking every opportunity to highlight the fact that Adare Manor will host the Ryder Cup next year and that the Walker Cup will take place in Lahinch and the Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg this year. Tourism Ireland will be pulling out all the stops once again to leverage the tourism potential of these prestigious sporting events, in the US and in our other important golf markets.”

“Ireland offers American golfers the complete package – with some of the very best golf in the world, stunning scenery and the warmest of welcomes.”

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We take pride in offering ongoing support and monitoring, ensuring your system continues to perform at its best for years to come. Our dedication to customer satisfaction drives us to continually improve our services, keeping Clare homeowners and businesses at the forefront of renewable energy technology.

By choosing Future Power, you're not just investing in solar energy — you're investing in a brighter, more sustainable future for yourself, your community, and the planet.

1,348 jobs in Clare supported by LEO LOCAL Enterprise Office (LEO) Clare financially supported 206 small businesses across the county in 2025 with these companies employing 1,348 people.

That is according to the annual results of the Local Enterprise Offices for 2025 announced by Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, TD. LEO Clare supported companies created 184 new extra jobs in 2025 resulting in a net jobs creation figure of 51. These figures take into account companies that amalgamated, ceased trading and those that transferred on to Enterprise Ireland.

Director of Finance Investment and Enterprise Noeleen Fitzgerald, said, “The figures both locally and nationally are a testament to the commit-

ment and tenacity of the small business community across the county, supported by LEO Clare. I’d encourage anyone thinking of starting or expanding their business here in Clare to reach out to the Local Enterprise Office Clare to avail of the suite of business supports available.”

Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Clare, Bernadette Haugh, said, “These figures highlight the significant impact that the Local Enterprise Offices and their clients are making in driving economic growth across the country. The creation of over 7,000 jobs is only a small part of the role that LEOs are playing in fostering entrepreneurship and growing enterprise in towns, villages, and communities all over Ireland.”

20 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Local support you can trust with your finances WHEN IT comes to managing money, there’s no shortage of advice available—but knowing who to trust can be the hardest part.

That’s where local financial institutions, rooted in the community, really make a difference. For people across Clare, Credit Unions continue to play an important role in helping individuals and families make confident, informed financial decisions.

Credit Unions are different by design. As member-owned, not-for-profit organisations, every decision is made with members’ best interests at heart—not shareholders. This local focus means Credit Unions understand the real financial pressures facing people in Clare, from rising living costs to planning for major life moments like buying a car, funding education, or managing household budgets.

One of the most common misconceptions is that Credit Unions are only about savings, or that borrowing is complicated. In reality,

l A happy member at Derg Credit Union in Scariff

Credit Unions offer a wide range of financial services, including personal loans, online banking, and in some cases, current accounts and debit cards. that make man-

aging money easier. Many people are also surprised to learn that you can join and apply for a loan on the same day, and that the old requirement to have a percentage of

Photo by Tom Micks

savings before borrowing no longer applies in most cases.

Another key difference is how borrowing decisions are made. Credit Unions take a personal, common-sense

approach. Instead of relying solely on algorithms, applications are assessed by experienced local staff who take the time to understand individual circumstances. This often leads to quicker decisions, clearer explanations, and loan options that genuinely suit the member.

In today’s financial climate, fraud awareness is also a growing concern. Credit Unions actively work with members to help them recognise scams and protect their finances. Simple guidance—such as never sharing PINs or login details, and being cautious of unexpected texts or calls—can make a real difference. Having a local branch and trusted staff to speak to offers peace of mind when something doesn’t feel right.

Just as importantly, Credit Unions reinvest locally.

Funds stay within the community, supporting local projects, clubs, and initiatives that benefit Clare as a whole. Choosing a Credit Union means your money

continues to work locally, strengthening the communities where members live and work.

At a time when financial decisions matter more than ever, having access to trusted, local support is invaluable. Credit Unions offer many of the same services as banks—but with a difference: personal service, transparent advice, and a genuine commitment to members.

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

www.clarecreditunions.ie

21 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Budgeting and debt advice available at MABS in Ennis, Shannon & Kilrush THE Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is Ireland`s free, confidential, independent and non judgemental money advice and budgeting support service for members of the public.

MABS was established in 1992 as a pilot study with Clare being one of the first offices in Ireland.

Clare MABS deals with over 400 members of the public annually with money & debt issues and continues to help the public experiencing over-indebtedness.

WHAT MABS OFFERS: n Free of charge Advice and support with confidentiality and without judgement. n In person one to one meetings with one of our 5 Money Advisors & our Dedicated Mortgage Arrears Advisor. n Private offices based in Ennis, Shannon & Kilrush.

WHAT MABS DOES: 1. Budgeting help: Looking at your income and bills and helping you plan a realistic budget.

2. Debt advice: Guidance on how

to manage and reduce existing debts (credit cards, loans, mortgages, rent/mortgage arrears, utilities, hire purchase agreements, Personal contract plans PCPs etc).

3. Income checks: Ensuring you are getting all the income, benefits

and entitlements you`re entitled to.

4. Negotiating with Creditors: Helping you talk to lenders/ creditors to find manageable repayment options.

5. MABS acts as the gateway to advice under the Abhaile scheme,

which provides vouchers for clients to see Personal Insolvency Practitioners, legal or financial advisers for anyone dealing with an unsustainable mortgage. In addition, MABS supports clients at the local County Registrars repossession sittings as Court Mentors.

6. MABS has a remit in Money Management Education by advising clients about budgeting and debt management and facilitating group talks in schools and the community in relation to money management, good saving and spending habits, sources of credit and the avoidance of over-indebtedness.

WHO IT`S FOR: n Anyone in debt, worries about bills, or struggling to manage money. n People at risk of serious financial difficulty, including those on low incomes. n Individuals looking for better budgeting skills and long term financial planning.

If you’re struggling with debt and need help, we’re here for you. You

can get impartial advice from MABS to help you manage your money and take control of debt. We offer support online, over the phone and face to face.

MABS is Free, Confidential and Independent.

Take back control of your money by taking the first steps with MABS. We have a full-time office in Ennis and provide outreach services at Kilrush & Shannon by appointment only.

Ennis office Address – 7 The Mall, Clare Road Business Centre, Clare Road, Ennis, Co. Clare V95 WNP6 To make an Appointment with an Advisor or discuss your situation independently and confidentially our office number is: 0818 07 2430 or email us at ennis@mabs.ie

Alternatively, visit www.mabs.ie or call the MABS Helpline on 0818 07 2000.

22 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Small financial decisions that could make a big difference in 2026 Ivan Dunne of Campion Insurance says a financial health check is a good place to start AS 2026 gets underway, many individuals, families and business owners across Clare are taking time to reassess their financial priorities.

Rising living costs over recent years, combined with evolving work patterns and family needs, mean that people are more conscious than ever about how they manage their money.

While headlines often focus on economic uncertainty, the reality is that strong financial outcomes are rarely driven by market timing or dramatic changes. Instead, they are built upon practical habits, clear planning, and regular review.

KNOW WHERE YOU STAND

A sensible place to begin is with a financial health check.

This doesn’t need to be complex; simply understanding what you earn, what you own, what you spend, and what you owe can provide invaluable clarity. For many, this exercise will reveal opportunities to improve, such as reducing unnecessary spending, addressing costly debt or strengthening sav-

ings. Most importantly, it creates a solid foundation for setting realistic goals, whether that’s building a financial buffer, planning a major purchase or preparing for retirement.

BUDGET FOR CONTROL, NOT RESTRICTION

For some, setting a budget can feel limiting but in practice, it’s about control rather than restriction. A clear structure helps ensure essential expenses are covered, savings remain a priority and lifestyle spending stays enjoyable rather than stressful.

Life doesn’t stand still and neither should your budget.

Revisiting it throughout the year allows you to adapt to changes such as new family commitments, fluctuating income, or unexpected costs.

BUILD RESILIENCE THROUGH SAVINGS AND DEBT MANAGEMENT

One area that consistently proves its value is an emergency fund. Having three to six months of essential living costs set aside provides a vital buffer against life’s surprises, whether that’s a home repair, change of employ-

ment, or an unexpected personal expense. This fund can be the difference between weathering a challenge calmly or relying on high interest borrowing during difficult moments.

Managing debt effectively is another key pillar of financial wellbeing. High interest debt, particularly credit cards and overdrafts, can quietly erode financial progress. Prioritising these balances reduces long-term costs and frees up cash flow, making it easier to focus on savings, protection and longterm planning once they are under control.

PLAN AHEAD AND REVIEW REGULARLY

With inflation stabilising and modest economic growth forecast in Ireland, 2026 also presents an opportunity to think longer term about how money is put to work. While short-term savings can provide flexibility and a financial buffer, those in a position to set money aside for longer periods may benefit more from investing, particularly through pensions and tax-efficient

investment vehicles. Even small, regular contributions to long-term investments can become meaningful over time, underlining that consistency often matters more than scale when building future financial security.

Finally, one simple habit can bring all this together, setting aside time once a year for a full financial review.

Much like a regular health check, this allows you to assess progress, revisit goals, update protection, and ensure your financial plan continues to reflect your life as it evolves.

Good financial planning doesn’t require drastic change or perfect discipline.

It’s about making informed decisions, reviewing them regularly, and seeking trusted advice when appropriate.

By focusing on these practical steps, ind iv i du a l s ,

families, and business owners across Clare can ap-

proach 2026 with greater confidence, clarity and peace of mind.

To discuss your financial future further contact the Campion Insurance Financial Services team in Ennis on 065 684 9666.

Campion Insurances Limited trading as Campion Insurance, PIB Global and Bestquote.ie is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

PICTURED: Ivan Dunne, Head of Financial Services, Campion Insurance

Five ways to make saving money fun Putting the fun into saving money sounds like a contradiction. But a great time to look at ways you can save some cash is now – even if it’s a small amount every week or month.

Constant overspending comes from not taking enough time thinking about the future, and too much time living in the moment. So, it makes sense that pausing for a minute and being more mindful about spending is a great way to make smarter financial decisions.

It doesn’t mean you stop having fun, but if your saving habits are taking a hit (or are non-existent), it’s probably time to try a new approach. Taking up a challenge like the ones we suggest might be a great place to start.

1. SAVE A EURO A DAY As simple as it sounds. Literally put aside a euro, every day. Make things easier by setting up a standing order from your current account into your savings. Try this for a year and you’ll have €365 to show for it.

2. SAVE 1% OF YOUR WAGE This one gives you a better understanding of how much you’re earning and how putting a small percentage of it aside could add up in the long term. Calculate 1% of your monthly wage (after deductions) and arrange a standing order

for this amount into your savings. If you set it up for the same day you’re paid, you’re less likely to miss it. After a year (or sooner if you can manage it), try upping the percentage.

3. THE 52-WEEK CHALLENGE At the end of week one, save €1.

At the end of week two, make it €2.

Carry on increasing the amount until week 52 (when you’ll be saving €52). By doing this, your savings for the year should be €1,378. Alternatively you could try this in reverse, with many people finding it easier to baton down the hatches earlier in the year.

4. TRY THE NO-SPEND MONTH Don’t worry – we’re not saying you can’t spend any money for a month. Make a list of the things you will need and another of ‘nice to haves’ that aren’t essential. Scrap the latter for a month and you could save a surprising amount. Here are some examples of both: Essentials Mortgage/rent Utility bills Basic groceries like fruit, veg, pasta, milk and toiletries Travel costs Non-essentials Takeaways – including everything from coffee to sandwiches to dinner Eating out in restaurants

Salon treatments or haircuts Non-essential clothes Entertainment (like the cinema) Note down a ‘normal’ monthly spend on those non-essentials.

Then once you’ve done the hard work of getting through your nospend month, transfer the money you would have spent into your savings.

5. SELL TO SAVE Look around your home and list stuff you haven’t used or worn for a year that could be sold online. Put the proceeds straight into your savings for an easy win.

HOW TO STAY MOTIVATED Think of a goal that's specific to you – it could be a big one like saving for a car or a deposit for a house.

Maybe it’s clearing down credit card or loan debt and building a healthy emergency fund. Whatever your motivation, make sure it’s present in your daily spending thoughts and remind yourself of it whenever you can (so you’re putting money away towards it).

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

CAMPION INSURANCE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS

PENSIONS

LIFE INSURANCE

: 065 684 9666

INCOME PROTECTION

SAVINGS

MORTGAGES

MORTGAGE PROTECTION

: financialhealthcheck@campion.com

: www.campion.com

Campion Insurances Limited trading as Campion Insurance, PIB Global and Bestquote.ie is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

23

24 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Financial planning for business owners

by Darach Honan darach@honanfs.com

AS A business owner, you face many decisions that directly impact the future of your business and your personal financial well-being.

However, sometimes we put all our energy and focus into the success of the business without looking after our own affairs. Whether you’re just starting out or have been established for years, financial planning should be a key part of your strategy. Here are four critical areas every business owner should consider to ensure a secure and profitable future.

1. SOLE TRADER VS LIMITED COMPANY: WHICH IS BETTER? When deciding on your business structure, many owners initially choose the sole trader route due to its simplicity. However, forming a limited company often provides far more benefits in terms of financial planning. With a limited company, you can protect your personal assets from business liabilities, enjoy tax advantages, and have more opportunities for pension contributions.

Furthermore, company directors have greater flexibility in terms of salary and dividends, which can help optimize your tax situation. In short, while being a sole trader can be easier to manage in the short term, a limited company is usually the better long-term choice for business owners seeking growth and

financial protection.

2. FUNDING PENSIONS: A KEY STRATEGY FOR WEALTH EXTRACTION In Ireland, while income tax rates are quite punitive, pensions funding offers massive tax incentives and is the best way to grow your wealth over the long term. With recent legislative changes, pension planning

has become even more important.

Contributing to a pension scheme not only provides a future income but also allows for substantial tax relief. As a business owner, the company can contribute to your pension, which can significantly reduce the overall tax burden on the business and help you accumulate wealth for retirement in a tax-efficient manner. The recent changes

to pension rules make it crucial to seek professional advice to ensure your pension strategy is up-to-date and optimized for your needs. If you haven’t reviewed your pension in light of these changes, now is the time to do so.

3. INVESTING CASH HELD IN THE BUSINESS: GROWING YOUR WEALTH BEYOND THE BANK With interest rates at historically low levels, leaving cash in the business bank account is no longer a viable strategy. Deposit returns are virtually non-existent, meaning the purchasing power of that cash is eroding over time.

Instead, business owners should consider investing surplus cash which they plan to hold long term in a well diversified fund. This approach offers the potential for better returns in the long term, providing an opportunity to grow the value of your business beyond its dayto-day operations. It’s essential to work with a financial advisor who can help you understand the risks and rewards of investing your business funds and ensure your investments align with your long-term financial goals.

4. PROTECTION: SAFEGUARDING YOUR BUSINESS AND PERSONAL FINANCES As a business owner, protecting both your personal finances and the future of your business is critical. Life cover and income protection are two of the most important

policies to hold. These policies can be paid for by the business, offering a cost-effective way to secure your financial future. Life cover ensures your family or business partners are protected in the event of your passing, while income protection ensures you can continue to support your lifestyle and obligations if you’re unable to work due to illness or injury. These policies provide peace of mind, knowing that your personal and business finances are safeguarded against unexpected circumstances.

CONCLUSION As a business owner, taking a proactive approach to financial planning can make a significant difference in your long-term success and security. By structuring your business as a limited company, optimising your pension contributions, investing surplus cash wisely, and ensuring you have the right protection in place, you can build a strong financial foundation for both your business and personal life. It’s always advisable to seek expert advice to navigate the complexities of financial planning, particularly with the recent changes in pension regulations and investment opportunities.

If you're ready to review your financial plan and ensure you're on the right track, now is the perfect time to reach out to a qualified financial planner to discuss your options. Protect your business and future today.

Introduce better money habits in 2026 2026 offers a fresh start to take control of your finances.

Money habits, specifically small, consistent actions determine financial health over time.

Building better habits now can help you save, invest, and plan for long-term security. Financial literacy is more important than ever in a world of digital banking, inflation, and changing economic landscapes.

WHY MONEY HABITS MATTER

Good money habits create stability, reduce stress, and allow you to reach goals faster.

According to a 2025 study by FINRA, people who track spending and save regularly are significantly less likely to experience financial stress. It’s not about earning more, it’s about managing what you have wisely.

ESSENTIAL MONEY HABITS FOR 2026

Automate Savings Set up automatic transfers to a savings account. Treat saving like a recurring bill. Even small amounts grow over time thanks to compounding interest. An emergency fund of three to six months of expenses provides peace of mind.

Track Your Spending Knowledge is power. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to monitor where your money goes. Identify recurring costs you can reduce or eliminate, such as subscriptions you no longer use.

Invest Early and Wisely Investing allows your money to grow be-

yond what a savings account can provide.

Start with ETFs, mutual funds, or retirement accounts. Remember: consistent, long-term investing beats timing the market.

Reduce Debt High-interest debt, like credit cards, drains finances. Prioritise paying off debt systematically either using the snowball method (smallest debt first) or avalanche method (highest interest first). Avoid accumulating new debt where possible.

Regular Financial Check-Ins Set aside time monthly to review budgets, track progress, and adjust goals. Reflection prevents overspending, identifies opportunities, and keeps you accountable.

Cutting unnecessary expenses doesn’t mean sacrificing happiness. Cooking at home, buying second-hand, or taking advantage of digital deals are smart ways to save.

Pairing these habits with mindful spending ensures you enjoy life while building wealth.

Making better money habits in 2026 is about intentional choices. Automate savings, track spending, reduce debt, and invest in your future. With patience and discipline, small habits compound into financial freedom. Start now to see results throughout the year.

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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26 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Western Herd co-founder hails vital role of LEO Clare in growing brand A CLARE brewing entrepreneur has said Local Enterprise Office (LEO) Clare played a central role in the creation, survival and steady growth of one of the county’s best known craft beer brands.

Maeve Sheridan, who co-founded Western Herd Brewing Company with her brother Michael Eustace in 2015, said the business would not have developed as it has without the training, mentoring and financial supports provided through LEO Clare.

“We would not be where we are today without LEO Clare,” she

explained.

The brewery is based on the family farm at Kilclogher in Kilmaley, where the pair set out to build a viable new enterprise that would keep the land in use for future generations.

Western Herd was the first commercial brewery in Clare when it opened.

The company now has the capacity to brew the equivalent of 350,000 pints a year.

Its equipment includes a large brew kettle, fermentation tanks and a bright beer tank, which allow the team to produce a range of styles including Pale Ale, Witbier, Pilsner,

Red Ale, IPA and Porter.

The brewing operation is led by Master Brewer Bridger Kelleher from Montana, USA. Sheridan said the most difficult period came during the Covid 19 pandemic, when the company’s business model disappeared overnight.

“Our business model vanished overnight,” she said. She added that LEO Clare stepped in at a crucial moment by supporting the development of a Western Herd website to enable online sales and by providing online training.

“Covid became an opportunity for us to reinvent ourselves and

l Maeve Sheridan of Western Herd Brewing Company

introduce our products to a national and international audience,” she explained.

The shift proved successful. Flora and Fauna, a double IPA created during this period, was named 2022 Beer of the Year and demand quickly exceeded supply. Western Herd now distributes to retailers, pubs and hotels across Clare and throughout Ireland.

Sheridan said LEO Clare’s involvement dates to the earliest stages of the

business. Before opening the brewery, she and her brother completed a Start Your Own Business course, received help preparing a business plan and secured a Priming Grant that covered up to 50% of equipment costs. “LEO Clare has been instrumental at every stage of our story,” she stated.

She encouraged other business owners and startups to engage with the office, describing it as a one stop shop with approach-

able staff, a wide choice of training and a strong suite of grants.

See www.westernherd. com for more. Visit www. localenterprise.ie/clare for more information on the training, monitoring and financial supports offered by LEO Clare.

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Training, Events and Networking Start Your Own Business programmes

Business networking & peer-to-peer learning

Business Finance, Digital Marketing, & more

Expert Business support and mentoring

localenterprise.ie/clare

27

28 Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

Residential Zoned Land Tax - Key dates in 2026 for landowners in County Clare THE introduction of the Residential Zoned Land Tax was intended to encourage the activation of land for housing development.

Statistics published by the Revenue Commissioners in September 2025 indicate that there were 43 RZLT returns filed for lands in County Clare for 2025 (which includes returns for lands owned by a local authority). The number of returns filed suggests that some owners of residential zoned land in County Clare have yet to register and submit a return for RZLT for 2025. Furthermore, these land owners should ensure that they do not miss key dates and deadlines in 2026 mentioned below.

WHO IS LIABLE AND HOW THE TAX IS CALCULATED n RZLT is an annual tax computed at the rate of 3% of the market value of the zoned residential land.

The next liability date falls on 1 February 2026 and owners of zoned land are obliged to self-assess their obligations and file an RZT return for 2026 with Revenue on or before 23 May 2026. In some instances it may be possible to claim an exemption or deferral from RZKT if applicable.

sible for identifying land potentially within scope in County Clare. This is done through a mapping process: n Draft maps are published showing lands it considers to meet the RZLT criteria. n Final maps are then published, taking submissions from landowners into account. These final maps are the basis for determining which lands are subject to RZLT for the relevant chargeable period.

Engaging at the final map and the draft map stage is critical, as it is the main opportunity to challenge inclusion. The final map for 2026 will be published by 31 January 2026.

2026 REZONING SUBMISSION

WHAT LAND IS IN SCOPE Land may fall within the scope of RZLT where it is: n Zoned for residential use, or for a mix of uses including residential, under a local authority development plan or local area plan; and n Serviced, or capable of being serviced, by necessary public infrastructure such as roads, footpaths, lighting, water, wastewater and public transport.

Both conditions must generally be met. Landowners have until 1 April 2026 to make a submission to Clare County Council to have land rezoned for 2026 albeit they would still be obliged to file an RZLT return for 2026. The County Council have until 30 June 2026 to reject or accept the submission.

HOW LAND SUBJECT TO RZT IS IDENTIFIED Clare County Council is respon-

Finance Act 2025 was enacted on 23 December 2025. This Act provides an opportunity for a rezoning request to be submitted to Clare County Council in respect of land which appears on the revised map for 2025 published on 31 January 2026. Where certain conditions are met, a landowner may claim an exemption from RZLT for 2026 on foot of making such a rezoning request.

A landowner contact your local authority to make this rezoning request and ensure that they register for RZLT and file a 2026 RZLT re-

turn by 23 May 2026 KEY ACTIONS TO ENSURE COMPLIANCE n Review draft and final maps when published by Clare County Council. n Making timely submissions before 30 April 2026 where inclusion is disputed. n Register for RZLT where required. n File annual returns and pay the RZLT or alternatively claim the relevant exemption or deferral if applicable.

HOW WE CAN HELP RZLT sits at the intersection of tax, valuation and planning. We can assist on the tax side by reviewing inclusion on the map, assisting with registration for RZLT, assessment of liability and ensuring the timely filing and payment of an RZLT return on or before 23 May 2026.

If you have any questions please contact us by email on info@amq.ie or telephone us on (065) 902 4000.

Disclaimer: This article is general information only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Specific advice should be taken based on individual circumstances and the relevant legislation in force.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Sport

29

St Flannan's ready for latest appointment with Dr Harty

l The St Flannan's Dr Harty panel pictured last Friday in the school hall as they prepare for this weekend's final against Nenagh CBS at Cusack Park

(inset below) Team captains (from left) James Cullinan of St Flannans, Eoghan Doughan of Nenagh CBS and Harry Doherty of St Flannans with the Dr Harty Cup

Photo by Gerard O'Neill Ben McShane/Sportsfile

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

Best Wishes to St Flannan`s College and our Brand Ambassador Tony Kelly in the Harty Cup Final, from all the Team at St Francis Credit Union. join today!

A n a m e y o u c a n t r u s t! www.stfranciscu.ie

(065) 682 8305

info@stfranciscu.ie

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

CAN St. Flannan’s College extend their lead at the top of the Harty cup role of honour or will Nenagh CBS add to their only title success which was achieved just two seasons ago?

This is the question being asked by hurling fans this week as St. Flannan’s and Nenagh CBS complete their preparations ahead of Saturday’s early awaited final.

Saturday’s final will mark the 43rd appearance by a team representing the famed Ennis nursery in the final of this prestigious competition. If one county replays in 1948 and 2003 then this will be the 45th appearance by a team wearing the blue and white in the decider of this famous championship.

From once preparations commenced for this season’s competition, Nenagh CBS were amongst a short list of favourites for the title. When the groups were drawn the finalists were together and they faced off in the opening round.

At half time in that game Nenagh looked to be heading for a comfortable win but St Flannan’s stormed back into contention in the second half and when the final whistle sounded the teams were deadlocked. They both went on to win their other games in the group against Cashel and Ard Scoil Ris with Nenagh going on to top the group on score difference.

Since the group stage both sides have been more consistent. Nenagh had to pull out all the stops to come through their semi-final against Thurles CBS last year’s winners. The margin at the final whistle was one point.

Nenagh are again managed by Donagh O’Donnell who is well known in Clare hurling circles having managed O’Callaghans Mills to contest the Clare SHC final. He led the North Tipperary school to their great win in 2024.

If St Flannan’s are to bring the famed trophy to Ennis for a 23rd time they will have to make a better start. In James Culllinan, Graham and Darragh Ball, Sean and Darragh McNamara, Colm Day and Harry Doherty they have strong players.

They will need to be at their best if victory is to be achieved by the Brendan Bugler coached outfit.

30

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

'Since we came to Flannan's we've

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

PREPARING for a Dr Harty Cup final is “very rare” and the Munster post-primary championship is “the most special competition you can play,” St Flannan’s College joint captain Harry Doherty outlined.

To prevail against Nenagh CBS on Saturday, Harry said St Flannan’s will have to “produce the best performance of the season”.

Doherty also has the responsibility of serving as the side’s

freetaker.

Looking ahead to the final, he told The Clare Echo, “this is where we want to be. Since all of us who make up the panel came into the school we have had one thing on our minds and that’s to win a Harty Cup. "They are very rare and very special, We will be playing against a very good team, very good opposition who are going in as favourites and we are the underdogs We have to put our best performance together and hopefully get over the line”.

Reflecting on last

l Harry Doherty speaks to Seamus Hayes of The Clare Echo and (inset) in action against St Joseph's Tulla in

the semi-final Photos by Gerard O'Neill

Kelly hoping to add hurling tradition at

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

NOTED as much for its hurling pedigree as its academic output, St Flannan’s College hopes to record its latest success on the field this weekend.

“That St Flannan’s College has a long tradition in colleges hurling is known all over the country. When people her that you are a teacher there or went to school there they immediately talk about the Harty Cup, even in places you wouldn’t expect.

"Young fellas are really conscious of that when they come in here,” remarked teacher Mike Kelly who is part of their management team vying for success in the Dr Harty Cup final on Saturday.

A native of Newmarket-on-Fergus, Mike said, “Obviously we are a school and education is key but for fellas who are interested in hurling it is a goal and a dream to make the Harty cup squad and then to try and progress in the competition like has been done this year”.

“We started the process during the summer holidays and we had a couple of internal games to try and get the numbers down. We started with a very big squad and it is difficult. We gave all as much of a chance as possible.

"There are an awful lot of players on the same standard. You will get your first 15 or 20 easy enough but after that it’s a tough job because there is such interest in it”.

Kelly said the advent of development squads means that players are a lot more ready when they trial for the school teams. ”A lot will have the background work done and it’s a great advantage to us and it does help to be able to spot the potential of players.

"Players develop at different times as well and a player who mightn’t have been on a development squad at under 15 level might find themselves in contention for Harty Cup”.

l Mike Kelly

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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wanted to win it' year’s final loss to Thurles he said, “we definitely took learnings from last year’s final loss.

"We have been there and done that. We have experi-

“

represented the club. It’s an honour to be following in their footsteps and if I can do half as well I will be proud”.

This will be the second meeting of St Flannan’s and

Harty Cup hurling is the most special competition you can play. We are all privileged and delighted to play in this competition

enced all that, we have one thing on our minds and that is to win the title”.

Clarecastle have made a huge contribution to St Flannan’s College on the hurling field.

“I am delighted to represent the club but it’s hard to do so when following the Dalos and the Sparrows and the superb way they have

Nenagh CBS in this season’s Harty Cup. “There were a lot of nerves there, a lot of lads playing Harty for the first time.

"We have great management, they tell us not to panic it will get you nowhere, stay calm, we know we have the players,” he recalled as they finished all square.

Harry continued, “Harty

Cup hurling is the most special competition you can play, we are all privileged and delighted to play in this competition, it’s very special”.

Commenting on the fact that the school leads the competition roll of honour he noted, “one of my teachers, Jamesie O’Connor has two and I’d love to have one, hopefully we can do the business this weekend”.

According to the joint captain, “Brendan Bugler is one of the best coaches, the passion he brings is class.

He won an All-Ireland in his first year as coach with the Clare senior side”.

Concluding he said, “it’s special to have the game in Cusack Park but at the end of the day, the pitch measurements are the same for both sides.

"Nenagh came here two years ago and won the Harty Cup. They are delighted to play here. Yes we would love to have the honour of accepting the cup but we have to win the game first”.

to rich and long St Flannan's Asked if the meeting of the finalists in the first round will have a bearing in Saturday’s final he said, “You take every game on its own merits. We went into the first game with a very positive attitude, we had a bit of a misfire in the first half, and we were a bit shell shocked at half time but there was no sense of panic.

"We hurled much better in the second half.

Will it have any bearing on the final, ultimately every game is different, it’s a new challenge and we will be focusing only on next week’s game.

“In the match against Cashel we managed to perform to the best of our ability in the first half. Against Tulla we didn’t do a whole lot wrong in the first half but we gave away those two soft goals before half time. We did put ourselves in a difficult position. Facing into the final it’s a sixty minute affair and we will put ourselves under severe pressure if we don’t have a good first half”.

St. Flannans have a 39 strong panel and they name thirty on match days.

“We concentrate on having a starting team and a finishing team, we are lucky that we are able to bring on fellas to get us over the line, we have fellas to come off the bench who helped us get over the line.

"We have had an impact off the bench in a number of games”.

The team mentor believes that “having players from last year when we lost the final is definitely a motivating factor. Experience drives it on. New fellas into the squad might get a shock at the level of prep needed and the intensity of the matches” Concluding, Kelly said “we are delighted to play in Ennis on Saturday afternoon and Clare supporters will have an opportunity to see a

top class game in their own venue”.

DR HARTY CUP ROAD TO THE FINAL Group A Round 1 (Oct 15, 2025) St. Flannans College Ennis 2-18 Nenagh C.B.S 1-21 @ TUS Moylish Round 2 (Nov 5, 2025) Nenagh C.B.S 4-18 Árdscoil Rís 1-19 @ Newport Cashel C.S 1-12 St. Flannans College Ennis 4-26 @ UL Grounds, North Campus Round 3 (Nov 19, 2025) St. Flannans College Ennis 1-19 Árdscoil Rís North Circular Limerick 0-17 @ Clarecastle GAA Cashel C.S 0-8 Nenagh C.B.S 7-18 @ UL Grounds, North Campus Quarter finals (Jan 7, 2026) Nenagh CBS 3-19 Midleton CBS 2-14 @ Bansha (Jan 9, 2026) Our Lady’s Templemore 1-19 St Flannan’s College 2-20 @ Moylish Semi finals (Jan 17, 2026) St. Flannans 2-19 St. Josephs, Tulla 3-11 @ Cusack Park

Sport

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Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Cullinan keen to follow in footsteps of grandad

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

BOTH GAA clubs in Ruan and Clarecastle have a long and storied history, over many years they have played key roles, both on the playing pitch and at administrative level in Clare GAA. Two of the brightest young hurlers in Clare GAA at this time are adding to that history and if everything goes to plan on Saturday they will give both clubs another glorious chapter for their histories.

James Cullinan (Ruan) and Harry Doherty (Clarecastle) are the joint captains of the St Flannans College Harty cup team which is seeking to extend the school’s lead at the top of the role of honour in this prestigious competition, the Munster colleges senior A hurling championship.

Speaking to The Clare Echo ahead of Saturday’s final, James admitted, “It’s a dream to play hurling for Flannan's. Most parents mightn’t like it but the reason many come to the school is to play hurling.

"We were disappointed last year when we lost the final to Thurles and that disappointment has a part to play in getting us to this year’s final. Yes, we want to heal the wounds from last year but this is a new team that has earned its way to the final”.

In preparation for the campaign the squad “did a bit during the summer and at that time some of us were involved with our clubs as well. It was straight into the preparations once we returned to school”, the team’s centre back stated.

James is proud to be from a club that has provided many players to a number of Harty cup title winning sides with the famed school.

These include his late grandfather Frank Custy who was a member of the 1957 title winning team. Another great Ruan clubman Clare’s All-Ireland winner from 1995, Cyril Lyons starred in the school’s 1976 victory.

Reflecting on the meeting of the finalists in the opening round he recalled “we didn’t start well and we can’t leave it to half time on Saturday

to get going. We know what they are going to bring, we must target a full 60 minute performance. We know them well, we played then in Dean Ryan, we have met some of them in the minor and under 20 competitions”.

“Support has a part to play but the same lines are on the pitch for both teams,” he said of the strong Clare contingent expected to be supporting the Ennis school in Cusack Park.

Acknowledging that St. Flannans has a great history in colleges hurling he quickly said “we want to make our own history. It’s a privilege to be part of this”.

Team mate Dara Kennedy is ruled out due to injury and the joint captain is clearly disappointed for the Ballyea clubman. “He is a massive leader within the group and a serious player and he will be a massive loss to the team.

Cullinan concluded, “it will be a dream come true if myself and Harry get to collect the cup but to do that we have to beat a very good Nenagh team and our full focus is on achieving that result”.

l Joint captain James Cullinan chatting to Seamus Hayes and (above) in action for

St Flannan's

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Sport

33

'Clare no longer interested in moral victories' SCAN HERE FOR PLAYER RATINGS

ALLIANZ NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIV 3 RD1 DOWN 2-19 CLARE 2-15 Venue: Páirc Esler, Newry Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME DOWN Frees for: 15 (6/9) Wides: 5 (2/5) Scores from play: 2-17 Spread of scorers: 7 Top scorer: Pat Havern (0-6 2f) Bookings: Pat Havern (69), Tom Close (70).

Own kickouts won: 14 from 25 (56%)

CLARE Frees for: 14 (6/8) Wides: 8 (7/1) Scores from play: 2-13 Spread of scorers: 8 Top scorer: Mark McInerney (1-3 1TP) Bookings: Cillian Brennan (47), Evan Cahill (72).

Own kickouts won: 15 from 26 (58%)

REFEREE: Conor Doureen (Cavan)

MORALE victories are of no interest to Clare’s footballers in 2026, senior manager Paul Madden has stressed.

Clare’s senior footballers lay claim to some of the most genuine Gaels around but for too long there has been a tendency to take comfort in coming close but not getting results.

Given the talent within the county ranks fighting for promotion to Division 2 is the shared aim of all involved with the Clare set-up.

It’s why manager Paul Madden was frustrated leaving Páirc Esler in Newry on Saturday when his side coughed up the opportunity to defeat one of the

fancied sides for promotion.

Having built a five point half-time cushion after outscoring Down 2-4 0-5 in the second l Inagh/Kilnamona players celebrate at the final whistle; (inset) U21 joint captains Shane quarter, Clare then Woods and Sean Rynne with selector Noel Hehir Photos by Gerard O'Neill went six points in in the first half, they had seven All-Ireland SFC. front on the restart “Last year, we got physicalbefore squandering the lead and out of nine shots, we had seven wides, two or three of them we ly turned upside down by these falling to a five point defeat.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, could have recycled but there guys, that was a target that we Madden stated, “I’d be very was a lot of good shots and they weren’t going to be and I thought disappointed that we lost the were the right thing to do, we just physicality wise and fitness wise we were absolutely a match for game, I think to be fair we were didn’t execute them”.

Lessons were learned by the them. in a position to go and win the "The two or three of their main game. I didn’t think there was a new management on how to betwhole pile between the teams, ter deal with Down who defeated players, I thought we did okay we weren’t as efficient as them Clare by 17 points in the 2025 with them even though (Odhran)

Murdock got in for the goal at the end, he is a good player and their goalie is one of the best around, we won forty nine percent of their kickouts in the first half so we did really well in a lot of facets of the game, we have to focus on that now because we have a game next week”.

On whether it was more of a case of Clare losing the game as opposed to Down winning it, the Ennis man commented, “You could look at it like that because we were ahead and we gave away a few turnovers unnecessarily but lads were under pressure at that stage, they kicked a few good scores, we gave away some silly scores. I thought the goal they got in the second half was a big score for them”.

Should the opportunity arise later in the year, Clare would have no fear of facing Down again, he said. “I have no problem admitting that Down won the game and hats off to them but we would love the opportunity to meet them again but that is not on the horizon any time soon, from our perspective it was definitely not a five point game but we’re not interested in moral victories, that is what it will feel like but the minute we got on the bus we had a quick chat with the lads and it’s all about Westmeath”.

Rouine starting return unlikely but Mark Mc expected back in attack for Westmeath outing

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PLAYER WATCH:

Brendy Rouine (wing forward) Minutes played: 70 (all) Possessions: 10 (5/5) Passes: 9 (5/4) Long Pass: 1 (1/0) Short Pass: 8 (4/4) Foot Pass: 3 (2/1) Hand Pass: 6 (3/3)

Shots: 0 Scores: 0 Dropped Short: 0 Wides: 0 Tackles: 3 (1/2) Turnovers for: 1 (0/1) Turnovers against: 0 (0/1) Frees for: 0 Frees against: 0

CLARE football captain Cillian Rouine has yet to receive the all-clear to be considered for selection in the second round of the Allianz National Football League while there is better news for vice captain Mark McInerney.

Manager Paul Madden has said no team will finish unbeaten in the competitive Division 3 of the Allianz National Football.

Round two sees Clare welcome Westmeath to Ennis on Sunday with captain Cillian Rouine still waiting to make his first appearance for the new management headed up by Madden.

Rouine has been out of action since the end of November after breaking a bone in his hand in a training collision, not long after preparations commenced for the coming season, which is understood to have required a minor operation.

A starting berth this weekend is unlikely for the Ennistymon defend-

er but an appearance has not been ruled out.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Madden said, “He hasn’t been involved in full contact training yet so he will have to be doing that next week to be in with a chance.

"He needs to be assessed by the medics and if the physios and medics say he is good to go then he is good to go but that is only in terms of training, you have to be in full contact training if you are going to go into a National League game, he is our captain so we would love to have him”.

There is more optimism for vice captain Mark McInerney, a vomiting bug interrupted his involvement in the opening round loss to Down but he is expected to be back at the edge of the square this weekend.

“There was no injury, he was sick for the last two days, to be fair we probably shouldn’t have played him, he had a vomiting bog.

"He gave us as much as he could but he had no energy, he still managed to

get three points in the first half for us, he really had nothing in the tank and at half time we asked him to stay on for a few minutes and help us get the first score or two, in fairness to him he did everything he could”.

It is now imperative for Clare to start picking up points in the tight Division, he stressed.

“Limerick drew with Laois, I just have a feeling every team is going to lose a game in this group, I honestly feel that.

"It is a tough division, we just have to concentrate and need to get on track at home to Westmeath so the pressure is on us.

"We put savage pressure on ourselves coming up to Newry, nobody gave us a chance but we knew we had a chance if we played well, we have prepared well, the lads are in good shape and the attitude has been excellent but we need to pick up points”.

34

Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Big boost for Clare hurlers to start with a win CLARE 3-18 CLARE 1-22 Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis Compiled by Páraic McMahon

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

STARTING their National League campaign with a win has been a strong way for Clare’s hurlers to respond to the frustration felt by supporters last year, manager Brian Lohan has said.

A “hard earned” 3-18 1-22 round one victory over Dublin saw Clare pick up the first two points on offer in Division 1B of the Allianz National Hurling League as they attempt to bounce back to the top tier following last year’s relegation.

Clare manager, Brian Lohan outlined, “There is nothing easy about the competition. Dublin are a quality side, you can see they are doing an awful lot of things right.

"It was a tough game and to have come out of it having made loads of mistakes in our first day out is pleasing.

We showed a lot of resolve and we got a great impact from the lads that came

off the bench which is very encouraging as well”.

He continued, “we responded well, there was a patch in the second half when they scored 1-3 without reply and we were able to respond to that.

We were dangerous the whole time and Tony got that goal at the end”.

How some of the less established players fared when introduced was pleasing for the twotime All-Ireland winner.

“Niall O’Farrell, Diarmuid Stritch, Colm O’Meara and Jack O’Neill who was there last year, are all still learning, their attitude is just brilliant, their work rate off the field and on the field is just excellent, it’s a tribute to them, they are a smashing bunch of guys and great to be involved with”.

All majors arrived at important times for Clare, he felt.

“We needed all the goals, our workrate was excellent for those goals. The

STORY OF THE GAME

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

ALLIANZ NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE 1B RD1

CLARE:

Frees for: 15 (8/7) Wides: 10 (8/2) Scores from play: 3-9 Spread of scorers: 8 Top scorer: Mark Rodgers (0-11 9f) Bookings: Rory Hayes (50), Adam Hogan (63).

Own puckouts won: 23 from 32 (72%)

DUBLIN

Frees for: 17 (8/9) Wides: 9 (3/6) Scores from play: 1-12 Spread of scorers: 7 Top scorer: Donal Burke (0-11 9f 1’Pen) Bookings: Eoghan O’Donnell (45).

Own puckouts won: 23 from 31 (74%)

REFEREE: Shane Hynes (Galway)

l IRyan Taylor under pressure from Conor Grooke and (right) Cian Galvin

Photos by Gerard O'Neill

two in the first half were turnover goals which are hard to get and it’s a real bonus when you get those turnover goals. They were a reward for our workrate in the first half when our tackle rate was great”.

“Dublin are a form team, they were unlucky not to win the Walsh Cup. This was a real tough game against an athletic and fit team, full of purpose and desire and we were expecting that,” he

added.

Turning to next week and the team’s trip to play Antrim he said, “it’s another big test. All games are hard to win regardless of what the competition. There are an awful lot of teams pushing forward. We were under a lot of pressure especially after how we performed last year.

"Supporters were a little bit frustrated last year and it was good for us to respond, It’s a great

boost”.

Jack Kirwan was unavailable for Sunday’s league opener, the Parteen/ Meelick forward was stretchered off in Clare’s first outing of the year when defeating Limerick at the beginning of January.

“Today was too early for him. He has responded well to the protocols and he should be okay for training this week”, Lohan confirmed.

PLAYER WATCH: Cian Galvin (wing back) Minutes played: 58 Possessions: 5 (5/0) Passes: 3 (3/0) Long Pass: 2 (2/0) Short Pass: 1 (1/0) Hurley Pass: 2 (2/0) Hand Pass: 1 (1/0) Tackles: 2 (0/2) Hooks: 0

Blocks: 0 Turnovers for: 0 Turnovers against: 0 Frees for: 1 (1/0) Frees against: 0 Shots: 1 (1/0) Scores: 0 Wides: 0 Dropped Short: 1 (1/0)

Spanish Point ready for shot at senior Munster glory

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

A LEADING figure in Inagh-Kilnamona and Clare camogie teams Fiona Lafferty is well placed to comment on the task facing St Josephs, Spanish Point in Saturday’s Munster post primary schools senior A ladies football final when they will stake on Mercy Clonmel.

“It’s a big occasion and a massive one for the school and the girls. In recent times school teams have progressed through the C and then the B grades tso the top division. This is quite a young team and we went into A competition not knowing what to expect.

"The team has improved in every game”, the Kilnamona native explained.

“We beat Hospital in the first round when the girls were excellent and they have been on the up since. Finals are there to be won and here we have two schools with a strong tradition in football.

Both schools have been doing well in the younger age groups. Clonmel have been there before and they are a physically strong side”, explained Fiona.

Continuing the camogie star said, “We have a very young team which included a number of second year students. Our girls have nothing to lose, they play with great freedom. There is a great bond and mix within the squad”.

She went on to say “there is a great tradition of football in the school".

"The boys are through to the Clare senior colleges final where they will take on Ennistymon while the under 15 boys team is doing well in the Munster competition.

"There are brothers and sisters playing for the school and some parents are on the road every couple of days to attend the games.

"The school teams have great support and that will be the case again on Satur-

l Manager Paul Reidy puts the St Joseph's Spanish Point girls through their paces this week

ahead of their Munster final against Mercy Clonmel

day. A lot of the girls are on Clare squads at the moment from under 14 to minor and also there are some on the Clare intermediate panel.

For now the focus is on Saturday’s Munster final. We will go and give it a go and see where it takes us” Fiona concluded

Photo by John Sheridan

The St Joseph’s Spanish Point panel comprises: Ella Cushen, Emma Talty, Aoife Martin, Ide O’Connor, Ellie Hanrahan, Kayla Tal-

ty Darcy, Michaela Sexton, Aoibhinn Mescall, Emma Griffin, Emma Darcy, Abbie Cushen and Isobel Moloney (all Kilmurry-Ibrickane) Leah Darcy, Aine O’Keeffe, Abi Kelly, Emily Shannon, Nikki Meade, Kate Murphy, Siobhan O’Keeffe, Aoife Shannon, Ellie Durkan, Lucy Foran, Chloe Malone (all Miltown St. Josephs) Abbie Gallagher, Aoibhinn Ryan, Sarah Bermingham, Mia Conway, Orlaith Hynes (all Doonbeg) Simone Considine, Allisha Ryan, Julianna Fee, Rachel Townsend, Emma Townsend, Clodagh Mescall (all Cooraclare) Aisling Collins Kilmihil The team mentors are Paul Reidy (Manager), Eimear Considine, Shauna Harvey and Fiona Lafferty

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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35

Spring League gets underway at Woodstock Golf Club

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB

Round 1 in the Ozone Health & Fitness Spring league will take place at Woodstock this weekend when the format will be a modified better ball with two to score on the para 3’s.

There will also be a singles competition.

Last weekened’s club singles was won by Ronan Horgan (9) with 35 points while the gross was won by Ross Darmody (3) with 29 points.

Category 1 honours went to Paddy Meehan (9) with 34 points and he won by two from Paul Sherlock (9).

Jack Darmody (11) was the category 2 winner with 32 points from Pat Solon (12) who had a similar score Winners in the 2’s competition

were Barry McNamara (4th hole) and Cathal O'Neill (14th hole).

A total of sixty eight members played.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB

Last week’s men’s fourball competition at Ennis was won by Ken Morrissey (15) and Tony T. McInerney (12) with 44 points. They were one ahead of John A. Byrne (10) and Jim Griffin (12) with David Cassidy (25) and David Considine (11) in third place with42 points.

Fifty eight played in the senior men’s competition last Thursday when the winners were Tim Scanlon, James Corcoran, Ger O'Brien and Liam McCannon with 69 points. They won on a countback from Cyril Lyons, Pat Garry, Tony Kehoe and Declan Hanley.

In third place with 68 points were

Conor Murphy, Gerry Daly, Michael Dempsey and Brendan Pyne followed on 67 points by Vincent Corbett, Ollie O Loughlin, Kevin Murray and Peter Quinn.

In fifth place with 65 points were Jimmy Kearns, Steve Burns, Tony McInerney and Joe Carmody while sixth spot was filled by Noel Pyne, Neil Cremin, Terry Hughes and Michael Meagher also with 65 points SPANISH POINT GOLF CLUB

The ladies 13 hole stableford competition at Spanish Point this week was won by Honor Kyne with 34 points and she won on a countback from Jacqueline Shine.

In third place with 33 points was Claire Bracken followed by Christina Woodland with 29 points.

In a similar competition the pre-

vious week the winner was Aine Burke with 29 points from Eileen Murrihy with 29 and Claire Bracken, also with 29

will go towards the preparation of county teams from development squad level through minor, under 20 and senior.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB

GORT GOLF CLUB

CLARE FOOTBALL CLASSIC

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB

Last week’s men’s 12 hole singles stableford competition at Kilrush was won by Nevan Prendeville (6) with 29 points.

He had one to spare over Sean Moran (15) with Pat Shannon (13) in third place, also with 28 points.

Jim Young Jnr won the gross.

Entries are now being accepted for the annual team of four classic in aid of Clare football. This year’s event will take place on April 16 and 17 at Woodstock with Tom McNamara and Partners again as the main sponsors. Funds raised

The men’s competition at Gort at the weekend was a 13 holes event.

Category 1 was won by Niall Loftus with 28 points, category 2 by Ray Dolan with 30 points, category 3

by Alan Fogarty with 33 points and category 4 by Kieran Reddy with 30 points.

Last week’s mens' singles stableford competition at East Clare was won on a countback by Michael Noonan (22) from Martin Breen (9), both having scored 40 points.

Ennis defeat Castleisland in first home game of '26

by Dearbhla Parry news@clareecho.ie

U14 Girls: Richmond/ Garryowen RFC 49 - 35 Ennis RFC Ennis’ U14 girls’ team played a 49 – 35 away game against Richmond/Garryowen over the weekend.

The much-changed team adapted well to the wet conditions after a trademark slow start. Fabulous cohesion in attack paired well with superb defence, while the tackling proved destructive.

An 11-person display meant that no individual was singled out. Before the game, every individual was given a personal task and by the end, everyone had fulfilled what they had been asked to do.

The team gave it their all and showed that smiles and laughter were what the game was really all about, learning more in loss than in victory.

By full-time, the girls were seen doing slip and slides on the pitch and turning the ground into a bog.

Senior Men 1st XV: Ennis RFC 21 – 13 Castleisland RFC The senior men’s team won 21 – 13 against Castleisland on Sunday for their first home game of 2026.

Before kicking off, the club paused for reflection in memory of club members

l The Ennis Men's First XV who defeated Castleisland RFC in their first home game of 2026

who passed on in 2025: David Murphy, Aidan Deegan, and John O'Dea. After a bright start from Ennis, Castleisland got the first score of the game with a penalty. Shortly after, Ennis won a penalty and kicked to the corner. They ran down the short side with Matty McNamara making ground before Calum Barrett passed the ball out to the backs.

Colm Killeen broke the tackle and scored the try, con-

verted by Dylan Kenny for 7 – 3.

During the second half, Ennis won a lineout outside Castleisland's 22 and mauled over for Conor Morrissey to score a try, converted by Kenny to bring the score to 14 - 3.

Castleisland then scored their first unconverted try shortly after for 14 - 8. Ennis replied following a lineout just inside Castleisland's half.

After several pick-and-

goes by the forwards, Ennis went back the short side with Cian Guilfoyle scoring the try in the corner, converted

by Kenny for 21 - 8.

In the last second, Castleisland scored an unconverted try to finish the game 21 - 13 to Ennis.

Senior Men 2nd XV: Ennis RFC 60- 7 Kilrush RFC The men’s 2nd team faced off against Kilrush on Saturday afternoon for a 60 – 7

victory.

Armed with their strongest squad of the season, the team made a blistering start with four tries ahead halfway through the first half.

Kilrush began showing some fight and were rewarded with a try of their own before Ennis responded with another five-pointer to end the first half of the game.

Despite a raft of changes at halftime, Ennis’ dominance continued with five more

tries being added to the scoreboard.

A fine team performance was displayed, highlighted by some fantastic individual displays, with David Utuke scoring a hat-trick. Other scorers on the day were Patrick Shorarin, Caoimhin Enright (x2), Ben Quinn, Shane Harran, Micheál Hayes, and Jamie Ryan. Conversions were scored by Ben Quinn (x4) and Jamie Ryan.

36

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PLANNING CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, Grovemount House, Cloonaveige, Ennistymon, Co. Clare Take notice that MMD Atlantic Ltd. intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter and extend the planning drawings as granted under P24/60400 along with ancillary site works at the above address. The works involve a) revisions to the external façade of the building b) a single storey extension at the rear of the building c) new first floor apartment within the existing roof structure d) a new single storey extension at the front of the building e) internal alterations That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL Muckinish, Spancilhill, Co. Clare Take notice that Kenneth O’Grady intends to apply to Clare County Council for Permission to Retain dwelling house, septic tank and open shed 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 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 Toreen, Kilshanny, Co. Clare, V95 FH66 Planning permission is sought by Eldon Hilliard for the construction of a two story extension, a new waste-

water treatment plant and retention for an ancillary workspace cabin at Toreen, Kilshanny, Co. Clare, V95 FH66.

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 the hours of 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00p.m. Monday to Friday (Bank Holidays and Public Holidays excepted) A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL Feighroe, Connolly, Co Clare V95KHP6 Take notice that Caroline Keane intends to apply for planning permission to convert the existing garage to a one bedroomed residential unit for the enjoyment of the occupants of the main dwelling on site and all associated site and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL Kincora Road, Lisdoonvarna, Co Clare Take notice that Mrs Bridget Kerin intends to apply for planning permission to 1. extend the existing dwelling

house and 2. retain the extension to the rear of the existing house and all associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

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

Clare County Council NOOAFF EAST, KILMALEY, CO. CLARE Take notice that Leanne Slattery McEvoy and Vadim McEvoy intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to demolish an existing derelict dwelling house, garage and shed and to construct a replacement dwelling house and domestic garage along with a new entrance and front boundary wall, a new wastewater treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County

Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

Planning

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Thursday, Jan 29, 2026 THE CLARE ECHO 63

38THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jun 6, 2024

Puzzle

Puzzle

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THIS WEEKS WEEKS PUZZLES PUZZLES Jan THIS June29nd 6th

WORD SEARCH

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5/20/22, 9:46 AM

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ANSWERS

HOW TO PLAY 1/2

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How to play

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

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The Clare Echo Crossword

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Daily Quick Crossword: 20 May 2022 ,5/20/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

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Daily Quick Crossword: 20 May 2022 ,5/20/2022 Michael Curl Creator Notes: A free daily online crossword that's not too difficult - just right for solving in your coffee break. http://bestforpuzzles.com

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Jan 29, 2026

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Quiz

39

Clare Echo Quiz statue in Ennis was gifted In the 1800s, what was located 1PeatIcarus to Ennis Town Council by Guinness 6 inpresent day Abbey Street Car Aviation in 1990 to mark what?

Park?

Ennis’ 750-year celebration 50 years of Shannon Airport A record year for peat sales

An outdoor theatre Roman baths A brewery

The statue is often referred to What is the area known as Cora 2 as another mythical Greek figure 7 Chaitlín (Caitlín’s weir) in Irish? named Daedalus. He was what relation to Icarus?

Son Father Second cousin once removed

3

The monument on Frances Street in Kilrush is dedicated to what?

Manchester Martyrs Easter Rising The Peru Two

Lisdoonvarna Newmarket on Fergus Cooraclare

was once known sim8Clarecastle ply as...

Castletown Clare Magaluf

According to a recent survey, In 1881, two men digging a drain 4 which Clare town has the most 9 near Lissycasey discovered what? pubs per head in Ireland (one for ev-

118 years 218 years 15 years

The name Scariff is derived 10 from the Gaelic “Scairbh” which means what?

A rocky ford House of Scars House of Scarfs

ANSWERS

6. A brewery 7. Newmarket on Fergus 8. Clare 9. A box full of gold coins 10. A rocky ford

old is the sign hanging over 5How the door of Knox’s Pub in Ennis?

A box full of gold coins A bear’s skeleton The book of Kells

1. Ennis’ 750-year celebration 2. Father 3. Manchester Martyrs 4. Liscannor 5. 118 years

ery 26 people!)

Lahinch Scariff Liscannor

Last weeks Answers Spot the Difference Spot the Difference...

Can youspot spotthe thedifference? difference?Spot Spotthe the77differences. differences.Answers revealed next week.

Can you The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

. A missing on delta sign . Window missing on plane . Badge missing on yellow suitcase . Button missing on delta top

. Wing missing on pilot hat . Circle on Airplane door missing . Pendant on Nadia’s chain missing

Irish Freedom Party local candidates Rory O Beirn, Doran MacMahon, Mary Cummins and John Hill

Pictured at University of Limerick’s Winter Conferring ceremonies were Léan Breathnach, Caherdavin, Limerick, with her Dad broadcaster Seán Bán Breathnach. Léan, a teacher in Coláiste Mhicíl, Sexton Street, Limerick, graduated with an MA in Guidance Counselling and Lifespan Development and joins over 2,000 students being conferred from UL last week Photo by Arthur Ellis

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