The Clare Echo 29/05/25 by The Clare Echo

No need for Ennis A&EHIQA report

COUNTY CLARE is to remain without an emergency department with HIQA not proposing to build a model three hospital in the county.

HIQA’s review into emergency services in the Mid-West region will not recommend the construction of a model three hospital in Co Clare while it is feared no new hospital will even be built in the region.

On Monday, the HSE held a briefing with elected representatives in the region, on the same day 98 of the 293 patients on trolleys nationwide were in University Hospital Limerick

(UHL), over one third of the national figure.

Ireland South MEP, Michael McNamara (IND) said any plans recommending not to construct a new hospital in the region were “very difficult to reconcile with the persistent crisis in unscheduled emergency care at University Hospital Limerick (UHL)”.

Full story p3 l Ballyea NS athletes Jake Corry, Cianna Carnford and Dylan Moore at the Cumann na mBunscoil an Chláir inclusivity day at Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg last Thursday

Photo by Tom Micks

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NEWSDESK

Email: editor@clareecho.ie or

news@clareecho.ie

SALES

Email: denise@clareecho.ie

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

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

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

ESB Science Blast

Clare libraries offers little library bags to all children starting school

Children due to start primary school this year are invited to collect their free Little Library Bag from their local library in Clare since May 9, 2025.

The Little Library Bag contains a selection of three picture books about starting school, information leaﬂets and about reading to children. The books and resources in the book bag, which is available in both English and Irish, support parents and their children in the transition to primary school.

Speaking at the launch of the initiative, Clare County Librarian, Helen Walsh, said, “We hope that this initiative will introduce children to a lifelong love of books and reading and prepare them for a positive transition to school.”

An average of 20,000 children around Ireland join their local library every year thanks to the My Little Library initiative.

Children’s Services Librarian, Clare Libraries, Niamh O’Donovan, added, “Starting school can be a difﬁcult time for both children and their caregivers. The Little Library initiative helps children to be school-ready and conﬁdent in themselves.”

The bags will be available throughout the summer. All families are welcomed to join the library if they are not already members. Adults must bring photo ID and proof of address to open a membership for their child or themselves.

My Little Library is run in association with the Local Government Management Agency and delivered by local authorities. It is a collaboration between the

Department of Children, Disability and Equality, the Department of Rural and Community Development, and Local Government Ireland.

New music residency at the Temple Gate p.13

Ennis National School Pupils with Judge Nick Cosgrove, Dept of Education at the ESB Science Blast in UL. ESB Science Blast, an RDS led initiative, is a free and inclusive educational programme which actively encourages primary school students to lead their own scientiﬁc investigations. The non-competitive initiative aims to address inequities in STEM education by ensuring equal access for all students, with a 50/50 gender participation and a core focus on DEIS schools and Gaelscoileanna participation

Photo by Eamon Ward

Two new library members collecting their Little Library Book Bags from the De Valera Library, Ennis

HIQA review oﬀers little hope for new hospital in Clare

CO CLARE is to remain without an emergency department with HIQA not proposing to build a model three hospital in the county.

HIQA’s review into emergency services in the MidWest region will not recommend the construction of a model three hospital in Co Clare while it is feared no new hospital will even be built in the region.

Last May, then Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) requested that HIQA, conduct a review of urgent and emergency care in the Mid-West with the primary objective of ensuring safe quality acute care in the region. Terms of reference were published in August with the final report to be published this summer.

On Monday, the HSE held a briefing with elected representatives in the region, on the same day 98 of the 293 patients on trolleys nationwide were in University Hospital Limerick (UHL), over one third of the national average.

In March, a comprehensive submission was formally made to HIQA by the HSE Mid-West, overseen by Dr Terence Hennessy, Regional

Clinical Lead for Strategy & Development. It followed an extensive regional consultation involving 25 structured focus groups across UHL, and engagement with around 350 stakeholders from every corner of the Mid-West health system. The groups had come to a consensus on the urgent need to shift away from fragmented and under-resourced models

The submission proposes a more integrated and sustainable approach to Unscheduled Emergency Care (UEC) delivery, built around a fully functional acute floor and UEC capability at UHL, Strengthening Model 2 hospitals like Ennis and Nenagh to maximise their role in Injury Units and Medical Assessment Units, and investing in community services to reduce avoidable hospital admissions and improve discharge flow.

He rejected logic that a new hospital would be dif-

ficult to staff which prompt an expansion of UHL or the creation of a second linked site. “I don’t understand how it would be more difficult to attract staff to a newly built Model 3 hospital than to an already overstretched and under-resourced UHL, which has long had a reputation for more patients per bed and per staff member than any other hospital in Ireland. Staffing allocations

are based on beds, not patients, and UHL’s patient load is uniquely high. That’s why it has such a difficult reputation and why it struggles to recruit”.

While acknowledging that the HSE made the recommendation in good faith, McNamara warned that the Mid-West has been misled before. “So too was the reconfiguration recommendation made in good faith

- the one that consigned an entire generation in the MidWest to a lower standard of healthcare than those living elsewhere in the Republic. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice... In the Mid-West, we bought a pup with reconfiguration. We shouldn’t make the same mistake again.”

“We can’t keep treating UHL like it can absorb the entire region without serious structural reform,” McNamara said. “This is no longer about local management. It’s about national planning, political will, and system-wide responsibility. If we want to future-proof emergency care, we need more than meetings. We need a system capable of acting on its own evidence,” Scariff native McNamara said.

Concern has been expressed by Friends of Ennis Hospital that the lack of Mid-West voices around the Cabinet table will hurt the cause for a new hospital in Clare. Chairperson of Friends of Ennis Hospital, Angela Coll flagged, “There are 36 emergency departments across the country only four of which are located west of the Shannon, serving over one million people.

The other four million of our population have 32 EDs. Who knew, that when British Colonisers drove our population “To hell or to Connacht” in 1652, that almost 300 years later and 100 years on from our Independence as a nation, the population of the west of Ireland would be still looked on as the poor relations! FEH believe that the HIQA report whether it comes next week or next month will not make a specific recommendation as to the location of an additional emergency department in the Mid-West”.

Existing sites at Ennis, St John’s, Nenagh or UHL are not suitable for a new ED, she said. “We need a hospital in Clare for Clare. While there are rumblings amongst some people including certain politicians about Coonagh being the favoured site - It should be remembered that Coonagh is in fact in County Limerick near the Clare border and that no matter how you twist it - it is not in County Clare. That particular rumbling needs to be stopped in favour of an actual site in County Clare that will benefit every Clare person from North, South, East and West of the County”.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Michael McNamara MEP

Council approves new Penney’s store in Ennis to boost town centre and generate €14m annually

by Gordon Deegan

Clare County Council has given the green light to Primark’s planned new ‘flaghsip’ waterfront outlet for Ennis which is estimated to deliver revenues of €14.26m per annum.

The planning authority has granted planning permission to Primark’s plans for a three storey over basement outlet on a 1.3 acre site in Harmony Row, Bank Place and Bindon Lane, Ennis subject to 14 conditions.

The planned development site lies close to a pedestrian bridge across the River Fergus opposite the Abbey Street car park.

A retail impact assessment lodged with the application has stated that the Primark proposals have “the potential to act as a catalyst for the local economy, with increased inward investment and a significant level of new employment during both the construction and operational phases of the development”.

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

The Primark scheme for Ennis comprises a gross floor

area of 3,550 sq metres including ancillary uses comprising staff area, stockroom, plant rooms and other ancillary areas.

A spokeswoman for Primark said today: Primark spokesperson: “We know how much our customers in Ennis have wanted a new Penneys store and we’re now one step closer to making that happen. We look forward to sharing more details when we can.”

The proposal also involves the construction of a new public riverside pedestrian walkway from Bank Place to the existing pedestrian bridge over the River Fergus connecting to the existing pedestrian path from Harmony Row and modifications to the walkway of the existing pedestrian bridge.

Landowner of the site, Galway company, Briarlane Developments Ltd gave its consent for the application to be lodged.

Only three submissions were lodged from the general public with the Council on the planning application and in one, Jackie Maurer with a Ballyvaughan address told the council that Ennis is renowned for ts unique cultural and historical character and having “a fast fashion outlet of this size could dilute this unique identify making the

town less appealing to tourists searching for authentic local experiences”.

In a retail assessment drawn up by MKO and lodged with the application it states that the proposed development, in line with the Clare County Development Plan provides for a “flagship waterfront development” of outstanding design and quality making a significant contribution to the overall appearance and amenity of the area.

The assessment states that the new Primark store “will also serve as a primary retail destination and encourage smaller retailers and other businesses to location within its vicinity creating a town-centre ambience and increasing both resident and visitor footfall within the area”.

The assessment contends that the planned interventions to the existing pedestrian walkway will further strengthen the connectivity to the riverwalk, seamlessly integrating the development with the rest of the neighbourhood, establishing the proposed development as a key landmark within the historic town centre.

The assessment also states that the proposed scheme will enhance the vitality of the town and integrate well with the existing shopping

facilities, further improving suitability of the town centre retail accommodation for modern retailers whilst also maintaining the town’s historic character.

On vacant premises in Ennis town centre, the retail impact assessment states that recently the vacant rate increased to 18.6%, the highest in County Clare, reflecting a significant rise over the past year.

It stated: “However, despite this, Ennis has generally fared better than other regions, particularly during and after the pandemic, and there have been positive efforts to

reduce vacancies.”

The retail impact assessment also contended that the proposed development “will not have any adverse impact of any significance on the existing retail provision in the identified catchment area”.

The report stated: “There is significant expenditure available to help support the existing retail providers within the Key Town of Ennis.”

The report also stated that the Qualitative and Quantitative Assessments carried out “indicate that there is demand for new comparison retail within the Key Town of Ennis, which the proposed

development will respond to and cater for”.

The report stated that its findings demonstrates that the proposal “will not impact on the viability of the Key Town of Ennis, rather it will serve as a landmark waterfront development which will enable / encourage additional retail and commercial activity including attracting more residents to the area”.

The new outlet is expected to replace Penney’s existing Ennis outlet in the Ennis Shopping Centre on Ennis’s Francis Street.

76 year old Clare man pleads guilty to assisting unlawful State entry of 22 year old woman he met online

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 76-year old County Clare man has pleaded guilty to assisting in the unlawful entry into the State in March of last year of a 22 -year old woman he met online.

At Ennis Circuit Court today, Roger Bishop of Little Thatch, Crown, Lissycasey, Co Clare pleaded guilty to the assisting unlawful entry into the State offence at T1 at Dublin airport on March 1st 2024 which is contrary to 6.1. of the Criminal Justice Smuggling of Persons Act 2021.

Mr Bishop was only returned to trial from the district court for the offence in April and today entered his early plea of guilty to the offence.

Counsel for the State, Sarah Jane

Comerford BL (Instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) said that the plea to the single count is acceptable to the DPP on a full facts basis.

Ms Comerford said that a nolle prosequi will be entered in relation to a second charge - and this is where the State will not be proceeding with that charge.

Counsel for Mr Bishop, Kenneth Kerins BL (instructed by solicitor, Colum Doherty) asked that the legal aid certiﬁcate be granted to cover a GP’s report for the sentencing hearing and Judge Francis Comerford granted the application.

In March, Judge Gráinne Malone declined district court jurisdiction after hearing an outline of the facts in

court from Det Garda Karen Barker from the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).

Declining jurisdiction, Judge Malone said: “I appreciate that it is somewhat marginal but in all of the circumstances particularly the age discrepancy between the two and the element of preparing a fraudulent ID card I am refusing jurisdiction.”

Giving an outline of the facts, Det Garda Barker stated that on March 1st 2024, Mr Bishop travelled to Turkey where he met a female.

She said: “He purchased tickets and a French ID card and assisted her in travelling to Dublin airport where he presented his passport and the French ID card with her details on it and gained entry.

Dt Garda Barker said: “It was subsequently found that the French ID card was false in the name of the female. She is 22.”

The nationality of the woman was not disclosed in court.

Asked by Judge Malone how did Mr Bishop come to meet the woman who is 53 years younger than him, Det Barker said: “They were in an online relationship.”

Asked by Judge Malone where is she now, Det Garda Barker said: “She subsequently claimed asylum. She attempted to leave the jurisdiction in May-June and Luxembourg returned her back to Dublin airport on the false French ID card she had gained entry with previously.”

Asked by Judge Malone did Mr

Bishop stand to make any ﬁnancial gain, Det Barker said: “No judge - she was culpable. She wanted to come to Ireland and she got in a relationship. He basically thought he was in a relationship with her but when she arrived here, it didn’t go to plan.”

Det Garda Barker said that “it wouldn’t be one of the more serious cases we have dealt with”.

Det Garda Barker said that the DPP had directed that the case be dealt with in the district court. Judge Malone said that the DPP has the beneﬁt of all of the papers in this case but said that she was refusing jurisdiction.

Judge Comerford remanded Mr Bishop on bail to Ennis Circuit Court to May 30th to ﬁx a date for sentence.

An artist impression of Pennys

news@clareecho.ie

Clare Set Dancing Sparks Global Breakthrough in Parkinson’s Treatment

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

DR. DANIELE Volpe to share groundbreaking research inspired by Irish set dancing

A routine night of music and dancing in Peppers Pub, Feakle, which led to a remarkable medical discovery is now shaping Parkinson’s disease treatment across the world.

Renowned Italian neurologist Dr. Daniele Volpe, who will speak at a special Parkinson’s seminar in Limerick on Tuesday, June 3rd, first observed the powerful effects of Irish set dancing on Parkinson’s symptoms during a visit to County Clare in 2010.

Dr. Volpe, a specialist in Parkinson’s rehabilitation and an accomplished musician, was performing at a trad session alongside Charlie

Piggot of De Dannan when he spotted a man entering the pub with visible signs of Parkinson’s. Minutes later, he watched in disbelief as the same man joined a set dance where he moved with ease without any trace of his earlier tremors.

“What I saw in that moment completely changed my approach to treatment,” said Dr. Volpe, who leads the Parkinson’s Unit at St. John of God Hospital in Venice.

Struck by the effect the music and movement had on the man’s motor control, Dr. Volpe began investigating. He noticed that the structure of Irish set dancing, particularly the Reel Step, with its rhythmic patterns and directional changes, required a level of balance and coordination that Parkinson’s patients usu-

ally struggle with. Yet somehow, the dance enabled them to bypass those difficulties.

Returning to Italy, he conducted a study comparing traditional physiotherapy to Irish set dance classes. The dancers showed greater improvement in balance, gait, and coordination across all measures.

His findings were presented at a global Parkinson’s conference in Dublin in 2012, where a group of his patients, many with Parkinson’s, performed a Clare-style set dance in front of 1,000 attendees.

Dr. Volpe’s work has since grown into an international research collaboration, with trials now underway through the University of Limerick and the University of Melbourne, exploring the benefits of Irish Set Dance

Therapy (ISDT) for both Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

Dr. Volpe will be a guest speaker at a Parkinson’s Ireland Midwest Branch Seminar on Tuesday, June 3 at 2:00pm, held at the Limerick Strand Hotel. Also speaking is Dr. Prarmeswaran Iyer, a neurological consultant based in the Midwest.

The event is open to all, including those living with Parkinson’s, carers, families, and health professionals.

Booking is essential as places are limited – to reserve a place, contact Una Anderson-Ryan at 087 251 1156.

Parkinson’s Ireland Midwest, which covers Clare and Limerick has embraced Dr. Volpe’s discovery, offering weekly Movement to Irish Music classes in Miltown Malbay, Raheen (Limerick),

Clare County Council initiates rollout of Flexible Outdoor Structures

THE Flexible Outdoor Structures project is an innovative architectural initiative which looks to reimagine how we use outdoor public space across the county. The Flexible Outdoor Structures are a series of demountable, transportable structures that can be erected in a variety of outdoor locations. The structures are designed to animate public space and will accommodate a variety of creative uses and outdoor performances or simply provide a social space to rest and enjoy. This project has been funded by the Outdoor Public Space Scheme as promoted by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media. This funding stream asks us to reimagine how we use our

outdoor public spaces to promote creativity, performance and social exchange. Clare is a county with a large variety of festivals, outdoor events and other cultural activities. This project looks to support this rich culture and promote new ways of experiencing arts, performance and social activities in an outdoor setting.

Clare County Council has initiated the roll-out of the structures, with installations completed at Kilrush, Ennis, Kilfenora and Newmarket on Fergus. It is intended that the roll-out of the structures will continue into the summer months and the structures will form an excellent addition to the wide programme of festivals and outdoor activities across the county. The proj-

Cloverfield (near Dromkeen) and Newcastle West.

Other services include voice exercise groups, hydrotherapy, online yoga and Tai

Chi, and access to Parkinson’s Nurse Specialists. All supports are funded through local fundraising and donations.

ect was a collaboration between the Rural and Community Directorate, the Economic Development Directorate and the Municipal Districts of Clare County Council.

The project team at Clare County Council worked closely with a multi-disciplinary design team led by GKMP Architects, and the structures were fabricated by Alan Meredith Studio Ltd.

Welcoming the project, Ann Reynolds, Director of Rural Development and Cultural Services, Clare County Council, said, “Clare is a county renowned for its rich artistic and musical culture.

This project will bring about new ways of showcasing this unique culture in outdoor settings.”

Carmel Kirby, Director of Economic Development, Clare County

Council, said, “The Flexible Outdoor Structures project will bring life and activity to key public spaces across the county.”

Tomás Prendeville, A/ Senior Executive Architect, Clare County Council, said, “The Flexible

Outdoor Structures project looks to reinforce our relationship with outdoor public space in a new and positive way, and I look forward to seeing the project in use by our communities and visitors alike.”

Flexible Outdoor Structures in place at Kilrush Square

Father of four Ukrainians fighting Russia stabbed Ukrainian in the buttocks at Clare direct provision centre

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 61-year old Ukrainian national who has four sons fighting in the war against the Russians, stabbed a man in the buttocks at a direct provision centre in north Clare, a court has heard In the incident at the Burren Hostel, Doolin Rd, Lisdoonvarna on November 28th 2023, Petro Drima stabbed Ukrainian, Oleksandr Lozyuk in a row sparked by Mr Lozyuk’s refusal to give the key to his bedroom to Mr Drima who was with a woman at the time.

At the time, Mr Lozyuk lived in his own room at the hostel while Mr Drima lived in shared accommodation there.

In the case, Mr Drima has pleaded guilty to the assault causing harm of Mr Lozyuk.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Judge Francis Comerford said that it was a serious offence.

He said that Mr Lozyuk had left the fight and the altercation but that Mr Drima stabbed him from behind in the buttocks.

Judge Comerford said that the injury sustained by Mr Lozyuk “isn’t insignificant – it is quite wide – 5cm - and and deep, 3cm”.

Judge Comerford said that “the custodial threshold is reached due to the seriousness of the offending is concerned”.

In evidence, Garda Brion Dolan said that Mr Lozyuk was preparing potatoes in the kitchen of the hostel on the night when Mr Drima approached him.

Garda Dolan said: “Mr Drima asked the injured party for the key to his bedroom so

that Mr Drima could bring a lady back.

Garda Dolan said that Mr Lozyuk “refused to hand over the bedroom keys and there was an argument between both parties”.

After the initial argument, Mr Drima shortly after produced the knife where he stabbed Mr Lozyuk.in the

Ireland’s first fully-electric flights take off from Shannon

BETA Technologies, a U.S.based aerospace company, has showcased its production-intent ALIA CTOL (conventional takeoff and landing) electric aircraft at Shannon Airport, Ireland, supported by Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI). This event marks the start of a European tour, culminating in the delivery of the aircraft to Bristow for operational previews in Norway.

This debut highlights BETA’s entry into the European market with its clean, cost-effective aviation technology. Advanced Air Mobility (AAM), enabled by electric propulsion, aims to transform travel for Ireland’s 89 million annual domestic travelers. BETA views Ireland’s innovative transport sector and geographic landscape as ideal for AAM integration.

BETA Founder and CEO Kyle Clark described the arrival as “a springboard to bring the future of aviation to Europe.” FMCI CEO Russell Vickers called the partnership a “milestone moment” that accelerates innovation in Ireland and opens new opportunities for the aviation ecosystem.

The ALIA CTOL aircraft, one of several assembled at BETA’s 200,000 sq. ft. Vermont facility, was introduced to Irish government officials and industry leaders. Minister for International and

Road Transport, Seán Canney TD, praised the initiative as a “glimpse into a cleaner, quieter, more efficient future” and expressed support for transport decarbonisation.

Declan Fitzpatrick, Chief Executive of the Irish Avia-

This European tour will include demonstrations in several countries, showcasing the aircraft’s quiet flight profile and low-cost operations. BETA will eventually deliver the aircraft to Bristow Norway for regulatory testing. The

tion Authority, stated Ireland has the regulatory framework to test and certify electric and hybrid aircraft. The ALIA CTOL is designed for regional and intra-city flights, carrying up to five passengers or 1,250 pounds of cargo. BETA is also deploying a compatible charging network, with FMCI set to install several BETA Charge Cubes by 2026.

company is also advancing its ALIA VTOL aircraft and training programs, with confirmed orders from UPS, Air New Zealand, Bristow, and others, including the U.S. Department of Defense.

buttocks as he walked up a stairs.

The Garda said that at Garda interview, Mr Drima did express dislike for the injured party.

Garda Dolan said that Mr Lozuyk and the accused “shared a room at the hostel and Mr Lozyuk was moved to his own room because of

his snoring and his own behaviour”.

Garda Dolan said that Mr Drima had arrived into Ireland after he left Ukraine following his discharge from the Ukrainian army on reaching his 60th birthday in the Summer of 2023

Prior to the war, Mr Drima had an agri business in Kherson in Ukraine and was working an an agri-worker in north Clare at the time of the November 2023 incident.

Garda Dolan said that Mr Drima received an eight year six month prison term in 2009 in the Russian city of Belgorod for theft and robbery.

Mr Drima was released in October 2016 and counsel for Mr Drima, Patrick Whyms BL (instructed by solicitor, Tara Godfrey) said that Mr Drima denies all wrongdoing concerning the robbery

offence and said that he was targeted by the Russians because he is Ukrainian.

Mr Whyms said that Mr Drima has spoken about the stress of the war including the impact of shelling.

In a Garda interview, Mr Whyms said at the time of the incident Mr Drima said that he was thinking “about Ukraine, my mother, my sons in the war, my life and my soul”.

After being initially charged, Mr Drima spent time in custody after bail was refused in the district court and he subsequently secured bail in the High Court.

Judge Comerford adjourned sentencing to allow a psychiatric report be carried out on Mr Drima and adjourned the case to May 30th to fix a date for sentencing. Judge Comerford further remanded Mr Drima on bail.

Clare’s O’Brien Clan documented on TG4

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

THE HISTORY of Clare’s O’Brien clan was recently documented on TG4.

The series Sloinne focuses on the origin and history of various common Irish surnames. Episode two of the second season saw Paddy O’Brien, a retired schoolteacher and storyteller going in search of the history of the O’Brien surname.

Paddy’s journey began by visiting Dr. Matthew Potter to talk about Florence Vere O’Brien, a British philanthropist and craftswoman. Paddy also visited Dromoland Castle in County Clare and spoke to the in-house historian Dr. Jane O’Brien about the history of the O’Brien family that dates to the early 11th century. Paddy also visited O’Brien Tower on the Cliffs of Moher.

The O’Brien dynasty was founded by former High King of Ireland Brian Ború of the Dál gCáis or Dalcassians in the 10th century. The O’Briens continued to rule all of Munster until the 12th century by which point their territory had been shrunk to the Kingdom of Thomond, comprising all of Clare, the area surrounding Limerick city and North Tipperary.

During the course of the programme, Paddy visited Dromoland Castle, the home of the O’Briens for generations. The castle contains many stone examples of the O’Brien crest, which is similar

to the crest used to represent county Clare today, featuring a warrior’s arm brandishing a sword over three lions. Resident historian Dr. Jane O’Brien showed Paddy a portrait of the 16th Baron of Inchiquin Donogh O’Brien who sold Dromoland Castle as a luxury hotel in 1962, two years before The Beatles stayed there in 1964.

The O’Briens lived at Dromoland for 900 years before ﬁnally surrendering to English control in 1543 under Murrough O’Brien. O’Brien was granted the title of Earl of Thomond following his submission to King Henry VIII. Following the death of Conor O’Brien during the Cromwellian invasion, the O’Briens allied themselves to the invading Cromwellian army in order to retain their land and titles. This led to Donat O’Brien, the descendant leader of the clan, becoming known as “the richest man in Ireland”.

During his visit to Clare, Paddy visited the Shannon Aviation Museum where he learned about Sicele O’Brien, an early pioneer in aviation who was the second woman in Britain or Ireland to obtain a pilot’s license in 1927. Sicele was also the ﬁrst woman in Britain or Ireland to run an air taxi service. O’Brien was killed in a plane crash in Hertfordshire in 1931, leaving behind an estate of £538 or £31,000 in today’s money.

The ﬁfty-minute long programme also saw Paddy speak to Ruth McMahon

about Clare’s most famous writer and Scariff native, Edna O’Brien. McMahon praised Edna’s highly controversial novel “The Country Girls”, as “frightening and wonderful”. McMahon recounted that when the local postmistress read the novel she informed Edna’s father that his daughter should be kicked up and down the streets of Scariff naked. The book was also burned locally by the parish priest Fr. Ryan at the time.

In the ﬁnal part of the programme, Paddy O’Brien visited O’Brien Tower at the Cliffs of Moher and spoke to Ristéard Ua Cronin about its history. The tower was built by Cornelius O’Brien in 1835, a Clare MP for forty years who was born in Liscannor in 1782. He was sentenced to six months in prison in 1808 after killing a man named Frank Drew in a duel and was known to be a hot tempered character. O’Brien appealed this however and served only one week instead. The MP did great work for the people of North Clare however, revitalising the tourism and ﬁshing industries and building many roads in the area. He built O’Brien’s tower as a tourist attraction for many visitors who came to see the Cliffs of Moher each year.

Episode 2 of the second season of Sloinne is available to stream now on the TG4 player

Untimely death of Éanna Rouine leaves a void in North Clare

NORTH Clare is reeling while the entire county is gripped in a state of shock and sadness with the untimely death of Éanna Rouine.

Untimely because the Lahinch man was only entering his prime at twenty years of age and it makes his loss all the more difficult to absorb for his loving family and wide circle of friends.

When word emerged on Sunday morning that Éanna was fighting for his life after attending a concert in Dublin it was met with disbelief that the future of such a healthy young man was on the line. This was replaced by a numbness on Tuesday morning when his death was announced, extinguishing a shining light with a bright future on the horizon.

Talented on the football field with Ennistymon and Clare, an excellent musician on the concertina and lively on his feet as a dancer, Éanna had skills in an abundance of fields including his summer work as a lifesaver. His ability to charm and humour was also visible through his time working at The Nineteenth Bar in Lahinch, it’s why he was adored by so many, a feeling enhanced by his good looks which so many people have commented on since the weekend. His intelligence was known by those who studied alongside him, most recently those in UL where was a second year business student.

Éanna was immersed in and brilliant at gaelic football. He represented Clare at minor level in 2021, was part of the U20 panel from 2022 to 2024 and formed part of the extended Clare senior football panel in 2024. He won an All-Ireland Freshers champion - ship with UL last

Over 160 people attended a prayer service for Éanna on Monday evening in Lahinch with 600 plus tuning in online. His aunt, Brid O’Gorman herself a fine musician and his friend Ruairí Murphy among those to lead the prayers. Fr Des Forde noted how Éanna left for Dublin on Saturday morning “full of fun”.

With the surname Rouine, it comes as little surprise that

year. With Ennistymon CBS, he won Munster titles at senior level in 2023 as they recorded a memorable double in hurling and football. When it came to lining out with his beloved Ennistymon, Éanna won championships across the board. He

joined the senior panel in 2022, a year in which they contested the county final. He became a member of the starting team in 2023 and was corner forward on the side which defeated St Breckan’s to win the club’s first Cusack Cup title, kicking a point in their 0-10 0-8 win. Later that season, he provided an unforgettable assist which was finished to the net by David Fitzgerald as they overcame Corofin 1-8 0-9 to seal their senior status.

Winning was something he enjoyed but he also took great pride from playing alongside his brothers and cousins whom he was incredibly close with, getting the opportunity to play with some of them for the first time in white and black at senior level.

His ability as a musician saw him grace the airwaves of RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta just last month appearing on an episode of Ceol Binn ó na Beanna alongside his siblings, Eoin, Dara and Brid Áine, his aunt Brid and cousins Diarmuid Crowe, Gearóid Crowe, Síomha Crowe and Caitríona Rouine.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr. Shane Talty (FF) who is also Chairperson of Ennistymon football club stated, “Our whole community is in shock at Éanna’s passing. A bright and talent-

ed young man, taken far too soon. We are humbled by the outpouring of support from across the GAA fraternity locally and across the country. Our thoughts, energy and prayers are focused on supporting Éanna’s loving family through this terribly difficult time”.

In a statement, Ennistymon GAA said they were “shocked and saddened at the untimely passing of our great teammate & friend Éanna. A truly talented and accomplished sportsman but much more than that, he was intelligent, witty, a strong academic performer, a talented musician, a loyal friend and a loving son, grandson & brother. His onfield successes are too numerous to list. His passing will leave a void in the club that we will all struggle to deal with together in the days, months and years ahead”.

Clare GAA said the GAA community “is deeply shocked and profoundly saddened by the untimely passing”. The statement added, “Above anything else Éanna was a popular and beloved young man with his whole life ahead of him. His loss has left a void that words cannot fill, and his absence will be felt not only on the field but in the hearts of all who knew him in his community and circle of friends in North Clare”.

Prior to senior training on Tuesday, St Breckan’s held a minute’s silence as they gathered in a circle in memory of Éanna. Ennistymon flags are flying across North Clare in his memory.

Éanna is survived by his parents Cáitriona and John, his brothers Eoin and Dara, his sister Brid Áine, his grandmother Bridget, his uncles, aunts, cousins from the Rouine and O’Gorman and a wide circle of friends.

An Garda Síochána and Clare County Council are working on a traffic management plan for his funeral which is expected to take place this weekend.

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

CLARE County Council has granted planning permission to €5m plans by senior All-Ireland winning hurlers, Clare to expand and redevelop the county’s GAA Centre of Excellence.

The planners have given the ambitious plans to unearth the next Tony Kelly or Shane O’Donnell the green light on condition that a range of measures are put in place to safeguard the Lesser Horseshoe Bat.

The project last November beneﬁted from €3.2m in State funding from the Government’s Large Scale Sports Infrastructure Fund to develop the Centre of Excellence at Caherloghan near the east Clare village of Tulla.

The scheme for the county’s elite hurlers and footballers - includes the construction of a 1-2 storey extension to the existing Clare GAA Centre of Excellence building accommodating additional player welfare facilities including new dressing rooms, a gymnasium, dining and administrative areas.

It also includes two new full length playing pitches, the construction of a new all-weather synthetic playing pitch, the construction of a new hurling ‘ball-wall’ and the construction of a new covered spectator stand serving Pitch 3.

The Council has attached the bat protection conditions as the Centre of Excellence expansion proposal lies close to Newgrove House which is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) due to the presence of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat.

According to the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Newgrove House SAC “is considered to be of international importance” due

to the presence of the tiny bat.

The Lesser Horseshoe Bat is one of the world’s smallest bats, weighing only 5 to 9 grams with a wingspan of 194-254mm and a body length of 35 to 45 mm and is afforded legal protection through the EU Habitats Directive.

The measures include specialist outdoor lighting at the expanded centre of excellence and a 10pm curfew on lighting each day.

Bat boxes are to be erected at the edge of the site while additional tree planting to the east of Pitch 2 is expected to provide some additional foraging for bats.

A bat activity survey carried out on behalf of Clare GAA found that four species of bat including the Lesser Horseshoe Bat were detected on the eastern edge of the site.

An ecological assessment commissioned by Clare GAA and lodged with the planning application stated that the mitigation measures will ensure that no adverse impacts will occur which could affect the integrity of the Newgrove House SAC and no adverse impacts are predicted against the conservation objectives of the Lesser Horseshoe Bat.

However, it remains to be seen if the mitigation measures go far enough for the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage which does have the option of appealing the grant of permission to An Bord Pleanala.

In a submission to the Council at the end of last month the Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage told the council that there can be no doubts or lacunae regarding what is required for mitigation measures proposed.

No third party objections are made against the proposed scheme.

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

Éanna Rouine playing for Ennistymon Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Éanna Rouine

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Clare County Council expands ‘Not Around Us’ smoke-free playgrounds initiative for World No Tobacco Day 2025

CLARE COUNTY Council is reinforcing its commitment to protecting children’s health by expanding the ‘Not Around Us’ campaign across all council-owned playgrounds.

Originally launched on World No Smoking Day in 2021, this initiative continues to promote smoke-free zones, ensuring cleaner, safer spaces for children to play and thrive.

Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, expressed his enthusiasm for the campaign’s growth, “I am delighted to see this initiative broaden its reach. As we approach World No Tobacco Day 2025, we are sending a clear message, our children deserve smoke-free environments where they can play openly, safeguarding their health for the future.”

The Not Around Us campaign will become a visible reminder across Clare’s playgrounds in the coming weeks. Clare County Council is also delighted to see the campaign continue to be an important part of sports organisations. It has been two years since Éire Óg GAA introduced the ‘Not Around Us’ initiative as part of the GAA’s Healthy Clubs programme, in partnership with the HSE Quit programme and Clare County Council.

Reflecting upon the past two years, Éire Óg GAA Wellbeing Officer, Noreen Vaughan said, “This initiative continues to promote a cleaner, healthier environment for all members, especially young people, by reducing exposure to harmful tobacco and vape products. It reinforces the

club’s commitment to wellbeing, setting a positive example for the community.”

The Banner GAA club and Clooney Quin GAA have recently come together with Healthy Clare to bring the campaign to their playing spaces. Darina Greene, Banner GAA Wellbeing Officer, said, “We are delighted to display our ‘Not Around Us’ signage courtesy of Healthy Clare and in conjunction with the GAA Healthy Clubs initiative. We are fully committed to the health and wellbeing of our club members and patrons and we are on a journey to make our grounds as vibrant and conducive to sport and physical fitness as possible and this includes creating a smoke and vape free environment for all. Nothing but fresh air.”

Samantha McCarthy,

Healthy Clare Coordinator, reminds readers that the aim of the NAU Campaign is to:

lHelp protect children and young people from second-hand smoke exposure.

lContribute to the denormalisation of smoking for children and young people.

lReduce environmental nuisance, cost of cleaning and damage that discarded tobacco products create.

lSignpost the HSE Quit services.

Organisations interested in displaying signage should go to the Healthy Clare webpage https://www.clarecoco.ie/ services/community/healthyclare/ ‘Together, we’re creating a safer, smoke-free spaces in sport, in playgrounds, in any place where children gather.’

l NO TOBACCO: Pictured at Active Ennis Lees Road, Ennis are (L-R): Samantha McCarthy, Healthy Clare Coordinator, Clare County Council; Shanelle Waring, Age Friendly Programme Manager, Clare County Council; John Treacy, Burial Ground/Community Playground Co-Ordinator, Clare County Council; Cllr Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council; Tim Forde, General Manager Sports & Recreation, Clare County Council; Cllr Joe Killeen. Chairperson, Local Community Development Committee, Clare County Council; Mary MacMahon, Senior Health Promotion and Improvement Ofﬁcer, HSE.

Unmasking the appeal of smoking and vaping on World No Tobacco Day, May 31

EXPOSURE to second-hand smoke damages the health of others, including children, who breathe faster and inhale more pollutants than adults.

For 2025, World No Tobacco Day seeks to ‘unmask the appeal of smoking and vaping’ so that young people can see that it’s not glamorous or harmless. In Ireland, the average age for trying the ﬁrst cigarette is 16 years and e-cigarette use by young people is about twice as common as tobacco smoking. The more playgrounds, sports and recreation centres that join ‘Not Around Us’, the quicker we can protect children and unmask the appeal of smoking and vaping for children and young people throughout Clare.

Mary Mac Mahon, Tobacco Lead, HSE Quit Mid West, your free local QUIT service says, “Studies now show that breathing second hand smoke, whether indoors or outdoors, poses a health risk to all and the ‘Not Around Us’ campaign aims to manage that risk for children. It also protects children from seeing smoking and vaping as a cool thing to do as we know that children as young as two years of age, can start to mimic adults’ smoking behaviour. “

“E-cigarette use is not harmless for children and is associated with later uptake of tobacco, a product that kills up to half of its users. While the government responds to the rise in vaping among children with new regulations, Healthy Clare is leading out on the ‘Not Around Us’ campaign, and Quit Mid West are proud campaign partners.“

The HSE has produced ‘Vaping and e-cigarettes, A HSE information booklet for parents,

2025

guardians and young people ‘ that is available in the resources section of the Tobacco Free Ireland website or by scanning the QR code below. Also, the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) Bill 2023, contains measures to tackle smoking and vaping among children. These measures focus on preventing young people from beginning to smoke or vape to protect their health. The Bill will: lprohibit the sale of nicotine inhaling products to under 18’s.

lprohibit the sale of tobacco products and nicotine inhaling products at events for children.

lprohibit the self-service sale of tobacco products and nicotine inhaling products.

lintroduce a strict licensing system for the retail sale of tobacco products and nicotine inhaling products.

lprohibit the advertising of nicotine inhaling products around schools and on public transport.

For more information on vaping, visit https:// www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/otherproducts/.

HSE QUIT Mid West Service

HSE QUIT Mid West is your free, local QUIT service. From setting a QUIT date until you are 12 months smoke free, QUIT Mid West offers in-person, telephone / tele-health support and free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) if you sign up to the programme. Everyone who uses the QUIT service is given a stop smoking advisor to guide them on their journey. Contact QUIT Mid West on 065 686 5841 or quit.midwest@hse.ie

Regional News

West Clare

Local teacher receives ASTI Thomas MacDonagh Medal

GERALDINE O’Brien, a teacher at St. Joseph’s Community College in Kilkee, Co. Clare, has been awarded the prestigious Thomas MacDonagh Medal in recognition of her outstanding service to the ASTI (Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland).

A long-standing member of the Clare branch of the union, Geraldine has served in several key roles, including as a representative on the ASTI

Executive and Standing Committee for members in Clare, Limerick South, Limerick North, and Nenagh. She is also a former ASTI President and Vice-President.

The Thomas MacDonagh Medal honours exceptional commitment and contribution to the union and is named after one of its founders. The award ceremony took place on Friday, 23rd May, at the Gresham Hotel in Dublin.

lTHE PARISH AND THE PEOPLE

Lavender, roses and perennials are stealing the show this May

MAY HAS really flown by and with the garden in full bloom what’s not to enjoy. Here are a few of my favourite plants to chat about that have and are continuing to bloom.

Lavender one of my favourites and the main reason is the scent. Not only does it look great in full bloom it also has a lovely calming effect. Fun fact I bet you didn’t know; we have so many varieties of lavender, so there is French and English lavender, both have a lovely scent and are great to continue flowering. Lavandula and Hidcote, Lavandula and munstead, Lavandula fairy wings etc, just a few to name that are in stock call in to see full availability.

Lavender is easy to care for; it likes well drained soil and once the flowers are gone make sure cut tops off and another flush of flower will grow. Rose is another one that has lovely blooms. Whether it’s a climbing rose or a shrub rose once they start to flower deadhead them regularly. They like to be fed too to encourage more blooms. Rose can be highly

scented too and come in a variety of shapes. What gardener hasn’t a rose or two growing?

Perennials, there are so many to chat about but some of the favourite are the lilies which are coming into flower with the bright colour and are so easy to grow.

Lupins can give height beauty and are very striking don’t forget to cut back the stems once they are finished flowering. Salvia this particular perennial keeps growing each year with varieties added each year some of the better known are Salvia Cardona blue, pink, Salvia love and wishes, Salvia magical Colorado is just some of the vast amount available lovely scent of Salvia hot lips. Alliums are another perennial that can give a lovely tall structure to the garden beds. It comes in varies sizes and commonly comes in shade of purple with an onion like head structure. It is very popular with gardeners. Perennial are a great investment in the garden as they will expand each year and give a lovely shape to beds and borders.

As we continue to fill pots perennial can also be used and can be a

nice addition to your front door arrangement. Along with other additions such as million bells to trail over the front of pots.

Remmeber to continue to feed perennial and bedding plants and deadhead as required. Water them as needed too, even if we have rain check your basket there is no guarantee that the rain will have watered them enough.

I really hope that your garden is blooming and you are sitting out enjoying the love ly eve nings.

lTHOMAS MCDONAGH MEDAL: Kieran Christie, ASTI General Secretary, Geraldine O’Brien, ASTI Clare Branch and Donal Cremin, ASTI President.

Photo by: Dave Cullen

lAuthor Mary Hester at the launch of Ballyncalley/Lissycasey The Parish and the People Book 2, pubsied in association with Clare Roots Society. Mary is pictured with her sister and brother Angela Wylde, Mary Hester, Michael Grifﬁn.

Photo by: Seamus O’ Reilly

East Clare

Brian Boru Bridge oﬀicially open

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

THE Brian Boru Bridge has been opened, offering a new link between the communities of Killaloe and Ballina.

The bridge was officially opened by Minister of Transport Darragh O’Brien (FF) on Thursday last.

A who’s who of elected representatives attended the opening including Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Alan O’Callaghan (FF), Michael Lowry TD (IND), Cathal Crowe TD (FF), Cllr. Shane Talty (FF), Cllr. Dinny Gould (IND), Joe Cooney TD (FG), Cllr. Pat Burke (FG), Timmy Dooley TD (FF) and Alan Kelly (LAB) as well as a wealth of Tipperary politicians.

Introducing proceedings, Alan Farrell, Director of Physical Development for Clare County Council said; “The bridge, named after Brian Boru, reflects both our heritage and our ambition. It will ease congestion, improve safety and enhance connectivity for generations to come. We look forward to the many ways this project will support the continued growth of Killaloe, Ballina, Clare, Tipperary and the wider region”.

Taking to the platform that was erected on the

bridge, Cathaoirleach Alan O’Callaghan joked “I suppose I feel more like the Pope here now then I do the Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, we were waiting a long time for white smoke in this area”.

“There’s no boundaries when it comes to something like this, even though we’re out of the hurling now in Clare”, he continued.

Addressing Minister O’Brien the Fianna Fáil cllr. stated “Your presence has indicated just how important the Killaloe Bypass, Shannon Bridge Crossing and R494 improvement scheme is not just to the region but to the country as a whole. It is a great pleasure for me to stand before you today to celebrate the official opening. The need of this bridge and bypass has been evident for many years, congestion on both sides of the river led to long tailbacks. But today, all will change for this evening, tailbacks will fully be a thing of the past. We anticipate a reduction in traffic volumes to the towns of Killaloe and Ballina and the removal of heavy vehicles. Journey time significantly reduced enhancing connectivity and convenience for one and all”.

Cathaoirleach of Tipperary County Council, Declan Burgess (FG) also

spoke at the opening. “There can be no stronger symbol of the connection between the twin towns than Brian Boru, celebrated equally on both sides of the river”, said Burgess.

“An early example of this area’s potential to produce superstars, and there is no better symbol of the lasting connection between the towns of Ballina and Killaloe. The completion of this scheme is yet another powerful example of what can be achieved when the people of Tipperary and Clare

work together, and I believe the bridge can be a lasting monument to the friendship between the twin towns”, he continued.

Minister of Transport

Darragh O’Brien said that the new infrastructure would help to strengthen the communities of Killaloe and Ballina and that the Brian Boru Bridge would improve connectivity between the two Munster counties. The minister noted the importance of the bridge in road safety.

Palestinian protester disrupts Killaloe Bridge opening

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

A PALESTINIAN PROTESTER

disrupted a speech by Minister of Transport Darragh O’Brien (FF) at the opening of Killaloe’s Brian Boru Bridge.

The woman was removed from the event by Gardaí after she shouted at the minister “How dare you show your face”.

The former Housing Minister was at the new bridge to celebrate its opening a month ahead of schedule. The new bridge connects the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina and has been described as an €88 million investment, the biggest infrastructure project in Ireland currently in terms of spread.

A large group of Palestinian activists held a protest at the Clare entrance to the bridge, displaying banners criticising the alleged inaction of the Irish government over the ongoing genocide in Gaza. The protestors hung banners on fencing that stated, “US War Machine out of neutral Ireland” and “Genocide by starvation 1845 now 2025, Imperial Forces Out of Palestine And Out Of Shannon NOW”.

Following speeches by the Cathaoirligh of Clare and Tipperary County Councils, Minister O’Brien took to the podium to begin his speech on the opening of the landmark project.

A woman sitting directly to the left of this writer stood up from her seat and began shouting at the Fianna Fáil TD over his government’s alleged complacency in the current genocide of the Palestinian people at the hands of Israel.

The woman, brandishing a Palestinian kefﬁyeh scarf, shouted “Darragh O’Brien, how dare you show your face! How dare you show your face in public! How dare you, free Palestine. Sanction Israel. My friend was killed; her mother was killed”. The woman continued shouting pro-Palestinian slogans but was shouted down by virtually all members of the public in attendance who reacted angrily to the disruption. Two members of An Garda Síochána then seized the woman and reminded her there was a “time and a place” for such debates and removed her from the seating area. The woman continued shouting as she was dragged away by the Gardaí.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, the Gardaí outlined “Gardaí attended the scene of a public gathering at Killaloe, Co. Clare on Thursday 22nd May 2025 at approximately 4pm. A woman (30s) who was arrested for public order offences has since been released without charge”.

Minister O’Brien was unfazed by the interruption to his speech and told the protester that he would be happy to speak to the women after he was ﬁnished speaking. Speaking after the woman’s removal by Gardaí, O’Brien said “We all know that the matter that the lady has raised is a serious issue that all of us care deeply about, all of the Oireachtas members, all cllrs, all Irish citizens. We all know what is happening in the occupied territories is an absolute disgrace”.

Bunratty to host ﬁrst-ever ‘Bark in the Park’ fun dog show

DOG LOVERS across Ireland have a new date to mark in the calendar, as Bunratty Castle and Folk Park hosts its first-ever Bark in the Park event on Sunday, June 8th, from 12pm to 5pm.

Ireland’s newest dog show is set to offer a packed programme of light-hearted competition as canines of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments take centre stage at the County Clare visitor attraction.

The inaugural event will see dogs compete across 16 categories, with prizes for the Smallest Dog, Best Biscuit Catcher, Most Handsome Dog, Waggiest Tail, Veteran Dog, and Best Fancy Dress, among others.

Young dog lovers won’t be left out either. The Young Handlers category will give children a chance to showcase their connection with their four-legged companions, demonstrating both skill and confidence in the ring.

“We are thrilled to introduce Bark in the Park, which will pro-

vide a fantastic day out for families and dog lovers,” said Marie Brennan, Events Manager at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park.

“Dogs have always been part of the Bunratty story—our Irish Wolfhounds are a living link to the castle’s medieval past. Bark in the Park carries that tradition forward in a fun, modern way.”

The popular County Clare attraction, known for its medieval castle, recreated 19th-century Irish village, Victorian Walled Garden, and 26 acres of farmland and woodland, will also use the event to shine a light on the vital role service dogs play in Irish society.

Visitors will have the opportunity to meet representatives from the Clare branch of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind, who will share stories of how their dogs support people with visual impairments and families of children with autism. Irish Dogs for the Disabled will

also be on hand to showcase their work in providing trained assistance dogs to people with physical disabilities.

Adding an extra touch of history to the day will be Bunratty’s own Irish Wolfhounds, Rían and Míde, who took up residence on the site in 2023. Rían, aged two, and Míde, aged three, continue the long-standing tradition of wolfhounds roaming Bunratty Castle, as they did during the venue’s medieval banquets in the 1960s. 2025 marks the 600th birthday of Bunratty Castle, one of Ireland’s most authentic and complete castles. A special event marking the landmark anniversary will be held during the summer.

Advance registration for Bark in the Park is required via www.bunrattycastle.ie by Friday, June 6. For more information, contact mbrennan@claretourismdev. ie .

lBARK IN THE PARK: Afﬁa Hussey at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park with Bunratty’s resident Irish Wolfhounds Rían and Míde.

lBRIAN BORU BRIDGE: Declan BBurgess- CathaoirleachTipperary County Council and Alan O’Callaghan Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council pictured with Fiadh Kenny of Convent primary school and Alex Short of Killaloe boys nat school

Photo by: Brian Arthur

l HISTORY-MAKERS: Cumann na mBunscol an Chláir celebrated inclusivity in Gaelic games by hosting a new initiative for children with additional needs, ‘Réaltaí an Chláir’, in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg last Thursday, May 22. It’s the ﬁrst Inclusion Day of its type under the Cumann na mBunscol banner, and the hope is that it will become an annual event in Clare and other counties going forward. The motivation behind ‘Réaltaí an Chláir’ is to ensure that children with additional needs are given the same opportunities as all other children under the umbrella of Cumann na mBunscol. The event was a collaboration between Cumann na mBunscol an Chláir, Clare GAA, Clare Sports Partnership, and local GAA All-Star Groups. Some 170 pupils with a wide spectrum of additional needs took part on the day, along with 70 SNAs, principals, and teachers coming with them. Help was received from the Transition Year Future leaders, the Clare U20s and underage footballers and hurlers.The sun shone all day on our wonderful pupils. They were actively engaged throughout the day with GAA skills, athletics, mini games, obstacle courses and much more. The positivity and sense of fun was felt and seen by all who attended. One pupil commented that it was the” best day of his life”

Photos by Tom Micks

Neﬀ Fean take up residency at The Temple Gate

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Temple Gate Hotel has officially announced itself as a music venue with progressive trad duo Neff Fean taking up residency for the summer.

Preacher’s Pub in Ennis town centre is now the ‘gorgeous’ setting every Friday night for one of trad music’s newest duos, Eoghan Neff and Ray Fean.

Cork native and Ennis resident Eoghan Neff is renowned for his masterful and experimental take on classic traditional Irish music, using live looping to create textured and emotive sounds. Having featured on 20+ albums, his fiddle playing has been heard on numerous feature films and television series. He is joined by Shannon native Ray Fean, a drummer who has played on an astounding 27 world tours and appeared alongside the likes of Horslips, Dónal Lunny, Celtic Woman, Sinead Connor, The Water Boys, and Elvis Costello to name a few.

Ray tells The Clare Echo, “We want it known that the Temple Gate is now officially becoming a music venue on Friday nights with NeffFeen, and it’s kind of a club atmosphere. It’s gorgeous. It’s just perfect for us.”

Eoghan, who has toured many of

the major festivals in Europe having previously been based in Spain, says the residency is an exciting project that offers Neff Fean an opportunity to develop their style and repertoire.

Eoghan previously was part of the Dubh Linn trio alongside Uilleann piper Blackie O’Connor and the multi-talented Cyril O’Donoghue, who sadly passed away last year.

He explains, “Cyril’s passing in September was a tremendous shock and an awful kind of moment of reckoning for all of us trying to gather ourselves together, because he was quite the bedrock of so many of our sounds from the musical community. I actually met Ray at Cyril’s funeral, myself and Ray go back a few decades as well. We toured together in Riverdance. Ray was playing drums and bodhran and we kind of discovered that we were both, you know, neighbours, essentially, with Ray and Shannon and myself in Ennis.

“We were always touring all around the world in different projects and different things, and we just decided to get together, and all of a sudden we realized that there was something particularly groovy about this union, and that’s why we’re here, developing this.”

Eoghan admits that the Temple Gate is the perfect setting for the

54 new houses for Ennis

by Michael Fitzgerald news@clareecho.ie

A LIMERICK-BASED architecture firm has lodged plans for fifty-four houses in Ennis. The large housing development is planned by Arnold Leahy Architects for a site on the Gort Road, close to the Auburn Lodge and Al Hayes motors.

The development encompasses the townlands of Dulick and Knockaderry. The area is zoned for development as part of the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029. A linear park is planned for the development which will create a commuting corridor for bats and other wildlife native to the area.

The mixed housing development is planned to include four dethatched houses, eight semi-detached houses, eighteen terrace houses and twenty-four Duplex units. A new road to access the develop-

ment is also planned that will join Oakleigh Wood road to Ballycorey road, along with the construction of a new footpath and widening of the Ballycorey road.

As the site is located close to Ballyalla lake, there will be significant environmental interest in the development. An appropriate assessment habitat screening found that Spanish Bluebells are present at the site. The Spring flowering plants are an invasive species and could potentially spread during the course of the development. Invasive species are identified as a major pressure and threat to biodiversity in general and within woodlands and waterways in particular.

The report states that “there is an onus upon the developer to prevent its spread. In the absence of any mitigation measures, there is a potential for this plant to spread beyond the boundary of the development site, particularly during the construction phase, when the

movement of machinery could transport plant fragments”.

“Due to the proximity of the Lower River Shannon SAC and the Ballyalla Lake SAC, significant effects to this area cannot be ruled out”, the report continues.

The site is also located close to the Limerick-Galway rail line and had a noise risk assessment carried out by Dalton Acoustics. The report found that “the inhabitants will have access to a quiet external area that is screened by the proposed development itself from rail and other noise sources. All habitable rooms will achieve a good internal noise environment without the requirement for specific additional acoustic treatments to the building envelopes”.

The proposed development is yet to receive any objections. Submissions can be made until the 17th of June 2025. Clare County Council is due to make a decision on the development by the July 8.

duo to develop their sound this summer. “Trad music is just so embedded in the identity of Ennis… it’s such a wonderful, rich musical town. And there’s, as you know, some of the most astounding musicians are based here in Ennis.

“For ourselves, it’s all about live music. What’s going to be magical about the Temple Gate on a Friday night is that we’re actually live developing with the audience here the material that we’re working on, so that then we can go into a studio and put down what we have developed.

“We’re very fortunate, because as you can see, it’s a beautiful space but it’s great for the music, because it’s deceptively large and the acoustics are great. We have our engineer with us as well to make sure that everybody has the best seat in the house.”

Ray paid tribute to co-owner of Temple Gate, John Gavin, for his support. “He’s really supportive with music, and that was proved for the Johnny Feen stage in Shannon Springs Hotel. John was very instrumental in putting that together so that showed me how much he actually believes in music and supports music. So this is what we need here in Temple Gate.”

Neff Fean play at Preacher’s Pub in the Temple Gate Hotel every Friday night starting at 9pm.

lHaving a blast at UL

Ennis

lSUMMER RESIDENCEY: Eoghan Neff and Ray Fean

Pupils from Knockaneen School., Co Clare at the ESB Science blast in Uinversity of Limerick.

Photo by: by Eamon Ward

North Clare

It’s show time in Ennistymon this June bank holiday

THE Northwest Clare Agricultural show takes place again this year on the spectacular grounds of the Falls Hotel & Spa in Ennistymon on bank holiday Sunday June 1.

Public relatiosn officer for the event, Kieran Houlihan said that “We were glad to be in a position to run our show again this year and it’s a testament to the Mc Carthy family to make the grounds of The Falls Hotel available to the show and to our generous sponsors to come on board again to support this community event.”

Kieran acknowledges the many challenges facing farmers and exhibitors with the costs of production and the impact on farming families’ finances. “Our show has always had generous prize money, and we have increased

prize money in the cattle section this year to acknowledge the costs that exhibitors are faced with. We are expecting a very high standard of exhibits on display, and we would expect that standard to continue despite the challenges faced. There are some top commercial livestock exhibitors in Clare, and they are always great supporters of our show each year.”

“The arts and crafts, home produce will be displayed in the function room of the Falls Hotel this year as the old vocational school is undergoing renovations. Our ever-popular poultry section will also relocate to the walkway that leads up to the Horse and Pony show rings. Our dog show classes are very well supported each year, and a newly opened local business, The Pet Shop Girls have come

onboard to sponsor the dog show and will also lend a hand on the day. We are always open to new committee members and would encourage people to join and keep the show on the road”

The Connemara ponies are still commanding high prices

in sales and there are several producers in the locality who have achieved great success at summer shows and sales last year and our show is an ideal opportunity for producers to showcase their ponies to perspective breeders and buyers.

“The mini digger skills chal-

lenge for adults, face painting and Loftus amusements will return with a bouncy castle and fun rides for kids will be here again this year. The local primary schools tug of war competition prove to be a big hit with kids and spectators each year and there are some

hotly contested pulls providing great enjoyment for spectators. We’re also trialling a “Fastest Couples Wheelbarrow Race” to inject a bit of fun and entertainment into the afternoon” Kieran added.

“It’s the 49 th year of the show this year and we have revamped our show logo and invested in new advertising signs to generate awareness of our show in the county. We are extremely grateful to the McCarthy family for the use of their grounds for the day. The facilities and grounds on offer to our show are the envy of shows around the country. The mature landscaped grounds, the impressive hotel facilities and the backdrop of the cascades really enhances the experience for an enjoyable family day out.” Kieran concluded.

lAGRICULTURAL SHOW: The members of the Northwest Clare Agricultural Show committee

lRás Tailteann riders take on Corkscrew Hill near Ballyvaughan on Stage 3 last weekend, which ended in Miltown Malbay. Daire Feeley of Clare’s Burren Cycling Club ﬁnished 4th in the overall standings

Photo by Lorraine O’Sullivan

9% increase in June Bank Holiday traﬀic for Shannon Airport

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON AIRPORT

will experience of its busiest June Bank Holiday weekends.

Over 60,000 people will travel through Shannon Airport this June bank holiday, an increase of 9% on the same period in 2024.

With 36 services in operation, the airport will see passengers jetting off to a wide variety of destinations. This includes the much anticipated, recently returned Delta and United Airlines seasonal flights to New York-JFK and Chicago, with over 325,000 seats now available across five transatlantic routes until September, including Aer Lingus’ year-round daily flight to Boston.

Ryanair continues to offer extensive options for summer breaks, with their new twice-weekly service to the beautiful Portuguese island of Madeira proving hugely popular. Following the recent stretch of sun-

lJUNE BANK HOLIDAY: Shannon Airport

shine, passengers are eager for more, with busy flights also departing for sun-soaked destinations including Alicante, Beziers, Faro, Malaga, Naples and Porto.

TUI’s weekly services to Barcelona-Reus, Lanzarote and most recently, Palma de Mallorca,

are also in full swing for the summer, with holiday packages on offer from Shannon. The new service to Palma runs weekly and provides an additional 6,800 seats from the airport across the summer season.

Meanwhile, inbound tourists will be using

Shannon Airport as a gateway to the west coast, combining the rural beauty of the Wild Atlantic Way with vibrant city breaks for the ultimate Irish experience.

Commenting on the June Bank Holiday passenger numbers, Mary Considine, CEO of The

Shannon Airport Group, said “Whether sending people off on their holidays with a smile, or proudly connecting them to all that the beautiful west coast of Ireland has to offer, the team here at Shannon Airport take huge pleasure in welcoming passengers and making it easy for them to travel across these busy periods.

“A 9% increase on this time last year shows that more and more people throughout the country are discovering the ease and enjoyment that comes from flying out of Shannon Airport, and how it makes for a stress-free start to any holiday. We would like to thank our passengers for choosing Shannon this June bank holiday and we look forward to seeing you all.”

Shannon Airport has five convenient car parks to choose from, with walking distances to the terminal ranging from just 30 seconds to seven minutes.

Limerick man charged over arson at Shannon GAA Club in €1m burglary and theft probe

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 31 YEAR old Limerick man has been charged with two additional alleged offences at Wolfe Tones GAA club - the club of Clare All-Ireland winning senior hurling manager and double All Ireland winner as a player, Brian Lohan.

At Ennis District Court, an additional 20 charges were brought against Eddie Carey of De Vere Court, John Carew Park, Limerick to bring the total number of charges that Mr Carey is facing to 66.

Mr Carey’s co-accused, Owen Casey (28) of Salvia Court, Keyes Park, Southill, Limerick is facing 59 charges bringing to 125 charges the two men are facing.

In court, Judge Alec Gabbett said that the Book of Evidence in the case “will be enormous”. The two men are facing

charges as part of an overall Garda investigation into an estimated €1m in value in property that has been allegedly stolen or damaged in a spate of burglaries across Limerick, Clare and Galway.

No monetary value has been put on the alleged multiple burglaries that Mr Carey and Mr Casey are charged with.

Eddie Carey has been on remand in custody since January 19th after he was refused bail and Mr Casey has been in custody since April 13th after also failing to secure bail.

In new charges brought against Mr Carey, he is now charged with causing €16,000 in criminal damage to the bar counter of Wolfe Tones GAA Clubhouse in Shannon on July 9th last.

Mr Carey is also charged with arson where is accused of damaging by fire the entrance steps

to Wolfe Tones on the same date.

Thousands of Clare fans gathered at the grounds on Wolfe Tones on July 22nd last to welcome back Brian Lohan and his players after they beat Cork in the 2024 All-Ireland senior hurling final.

In evidence previously heard at a bail hearing for Mr Casey, Det Garda Aoife O’Malley told the bail hearing that Mr Casey along with two of his associates are suspected to be involved in burglaries and stealing high value vehicles across the Midwest with a combined estimated monetary value in excess of €1m

Det Garda O’Malley said that the Garda investigation commenced out of Ennis Garda Station last July and is investigating 92 separate alleged offences with a monetary value of in excess of €1m in stolen and damaged property and stolen vehicles.

Det O’Malley said that the

Mother “helpless” as men attack caravan with her children inside

by Gordon Deegan

news@clareecho.ie

A MOTHER has told a court that she was ‘helpless’ when a group of Shannon men attacked a caravan that at the time was occupied by her two week old baby and her four other small children.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Victoria Keenan said that she will never get over January 20 2021 “when these men came to my home”.

Ms Keenan said that her then two week old baby was on top of the bed at the time and “as a mother I felt helpless and I will never get over how a group of men could treat a woman with ﬁve small babies”.

In her victim impact statement at the sentencing hearing for the ﬁve offenders, Ms Keenan said: “I felt helpless and tried my best to scream and make them stop but they showed no remorse.”

She said: “I got assaulted when trying to save my babies from what was happening.”

Ms Keenan told the court: “I hope when sentencing that the judge puts my small children’s safety ﬁrst and those men get what they deserve or I am afraid it might happen again.”

At the sentencing hearing, Det Sgt Kevin O’Hagan said that the attack on the caravan was the third time that members of the McDonagh family had been found guilty of violent disorder as part of ongoing issues between the McDonagh family from Ballymurtagh in Shannon and the Harty-Keenan family from Co Limerick who have family members living in Sixmilebridge.

Det Sgt O’Hagan said convictions have been recorded against members of the McDonagh family from two previous violent incidents at the Oakwood Hotel in Shannon in 2018 and Supermacs in Shannon in 2019.

Det Sgt O’Hagan said that in January 2021, members of the Harty Keenan family moved to a site at Illaunmanagh, Shannon “and tensions rose again”.

He said that on the day men alighted from two cars belonging to the McDonagh family and attacked the caravan of Victoria Keenan.

Asked about mediation between the two sides, Det Sgt O’Hagan said that it works in certain cases but it takes two sides to get involved.

92 separate alleged offences include 31 commercial burglaries, 24 residential burglaries and 27 unauthorised taking of vehicles between January 2024 and March 2025.

Det O’Malley said that it will be alleged that the high value vehicles were stolen to buy for another criminal network for financial gain.

Det O’Malley said that the burglaries were “highly organised”.

Det O’Malley said that in relation to some of the unauthorised taking of vehicles, there are videos of the alleged crimes occurring at the time that they are occurring.

Det O’Malley did not put a monetary value on the offences that Mr Casey is charged with.

Judge Gabbett remanded the two accused in custody via video link to re-appear before Ennis District Court on Wednesday.

He said: “Mediation came up a number of months and again in the last day or so but it is not something they are interested in. They want hostilities to stop and they want justice to be served.”

Det Sgt O’Hagan said that there have been no incidents since between the two sides.

The McDonaghs contested the charges and in 11-1 majority verdicts at the end of a trial in February, a jury convicted Bernard McDonagh (32) of St Helen’s Park, Ballymurtagh, Shannon of violent disorder, assault causing harm to Victoria Keenan and criminal damage to her caravan. Bernard McDonagh has previous convictions for violent disorder from the Oakwood Hotel and Supermacs incidents.

Thomas McDonagh Jnr (24) of Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon, John McDonagh Jnr (26) of Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon and Patrick McDonagh (29) of St Helen’s Park, Ballymurtagh Cross, Shannon were convicted of violent disorder and criminal damage to the caravan of Victoria Keenan. John McDonagh Snr (40) of Ballymurtagh halting site, Shannon was convicted of violent disorder only.

Bernard McDonagh and John McDonagh Jnr are currently on remand in custody for the offences with the others on bail.

Judge Francis Comerford adjourned sentencing in all cases to tomorrow, Thursday.

Gort

South Galway farmer says life has been turned upside down by farm ban while on bail

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A SOUTH County Galway farmer has told a judge that his life has been turned upside down over his bail ban from Gort and his farm near there.

At Gort District Court, Gerard Nestor (60) told Judge Alec Gabbett that he is completely innocent of the charges before the court.

Judge Gabbett told Mr Nestor that he is facing an awful lot of charge sheets including one where Mr Nestor is effectively accused of using a JCB as a weapon in a dispute over a wall with another landowner.

In two of the charges before the court, Mr Nestor of of Dun Na Mara Drive, Renmore, Galway and College Rd, Galway is charged with the criminal damage of a block wall belonging to John O’Donoghue on dates between November 20th and November 21st and on November 6th last at Bunasrah, Ennis Rd, Gort.

Judge Gabbett said previously that the level of damage to the wall is quite serious and said that it is alleged that it was

knocked down twice.

Sgt Claire Henaghan previously told the court that value of the wall could be around €20,000.

Judge Gabbett said that Gardai have received partial directions from the DPP with full directions awaited.

In court, Mr Nestor told Judge Gabbett: “In these circumstances where I am innocent until proven guilty, I should be allowed to go to my hometown of Gort where most of my family still live, where my parents and brother are buried and I have a farm with animals and I have not been able to set foot on for six months.”

He said: “The Gardai have time and time again delayed, delayed and delayed and here is another example of it to try to keep me out of Gort and out of my farm.”

Judge Gabbett said that there are “particularly serious allegations here as far as I am concerned including one where he Is effectively accused of using a JCB as a weapon”.

Judge Gabbett said: “Mr Nestor has been very good on his bail and there has been no application to revoke the bail conditions. I appreciate it is very

onerous and I am not inclined to relax the conditions until we have DPP directions.”

Mr Nestor said: “I have been accused of some very serious criminal damage and this is completely false and I have no doubt that I will be proven innocent in time. But in the meantime, my life has been turned completely upside down.”

Judge Gabbett said: “This is ultimately about a wall and does the wall belong to Mr O’Donoghue or belong to you?”

Mr Nestor said: “The wall was put there by Mr O’Donoghue on my land and there is no question that it is my land.”

“There are two sheds on the boundary and Mr O’Donoghue decided to knock a wall and put a new doorway from his shed into my field.”

Judge Gabbett said that he is adjourning the case to June 26th on a peremptory basis, which means that if DPP directions are not before the court Judge Gabbett may strike out the charges.

Mr Nestor told Judge Gabbett that he has been very fair. He told him: “I am depending on you for justice.”

Judge gives dog owner ultimatum in ‘sheep worrying’ case

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A JUDGE has given a dog owner an ultimatum over his two dogs in a ‘sheep worrying’ case – build an enclosed pen or destruction of the dogs.

At Gort District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett told dog owner, Patrick Landers that he not was in favour of putting electronic collars on his dogs as a means of ensuring that the two stay on Mr Landers’s property.

Judge Gabbett told Mr Landers: “If they are bold enough, the collar will get them a jolt and they will keep going. My difficulty here is the worrying of the sheep and no collar will stop that.”

He said: “A high pen is the solution. It is that or destruction – I have given you very opportunity. Personally, I don’t think a collar will work.”

Mr Landers of Ashfield Demesne, Gort, Co Galway is before the court for not having his dog under control at Ashfield Demesne on February 23rd 2024 and Judge Gabbett has previously found that the facts were proven against Mr Landers.

In the case, Judge Gabbett previously commented: “This is an area where there are a lot of sheep. Once a dog has done this, they get a taste for it and it doesn’t go away.”

“It is lambing season and you’ll have dogs back out and they won’t be chasing big sheep, they will be chasing baby sheep and that is a very different target.”

Judge Gabbett said that the court had heard evidence from Galway Co Council’s dog warden, Seamus Goldrick to say that two dogs belonging to Patrick Landers were not under control.

Previously in evidence, Dog Warden, Seamus Mr Goldrick said that he received a call of a sheep attack in the Ashfield, Shanaglish area.

Mr Goldrick said that on arriving at the area he came across three dogs not under control walking on the road . The dogs were traced back to the Landers home.

In March of last year, one of the three Landers dogs was voluntarily surrendered to Galway Co Council and two remain with Mr Landers.

A solicitor for Galway County Council told Judge Gabbett the up to date situation. He said: “I am instructed that Mr Landers has got dog licences for the dogs but we are not entirely satisfied that the dogs are under his control.”

Judge Gabbett said: “All I want to know that the dogs are suitably housed, not running out on the road and that they have licences.”

Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to July 24th and said that July 24th is Mr Landers’s ‘final shot’.

lBAIL BAN: Gort Courthouse

Thought for the week: cherishing life

Spreading the word of positivity

Thought for the week: Give The Exams Your Best!!

CThought for the week: cherishing life

HILDREN, especially toddlers, embody a unique enthusiasm for life that often seems to fade as we grow older.

Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

C“AHILDREN, especially toddlers, embody a unique enthusiasm for life that often seems to fade as we grow older.

college professor handed out an exam that had 20 difficult questions. The instructions said to read the entire exam paper before beginning to write. Most students, seeing the number of questions, despaired of answering them all in the time allotted. They ignored the instructions and started right in on the first question.

Their days are ﬁlled with joy and excitement, and they approach each new day with a sense of wonder. Unlike us adults, children forgive easily, worry little, and ﬁnd joy in simple pleasures. They remind us of the importance of living in the moment and cherishing our life experiences. Reflecting on my own experiences with my two daughters, I recall the joy they expressed each morning, jumping out of bed with smiles and excitement for the day ahead. This made me ponder why adults often lose that zest for life. When did we stop appreciating the beauty of each day? Time, and life is indeed precious, and we should strive to cherish each moment with gratitude and joy.

Their days are ﬁlled with joy and excitement, and they approach each new day with a sense of wonder. Unlike us adults, children forgive easily, worry little, and ﬁnd joy in simple pleasures.

limited should motivate us to appreciate every moment, as life can change in an instant as I and my family well know!! I believe in valuing friendships, family, love, and seizing opportunities. Most importantly, I believe in cherishing life itself in all its fullness.

no student or parent can escape. I remember those sun-soaked days when I was cooped up inside, cramming for exams. It didn’t take long to realize that cramming was less effective than a balanced study approach, especially in those final days.

Picture this: the teacher announces, “Put your revision notes away. It’s time for you to take the exam.”

MAKE THE BEST OF IT

A few students wrote nothing at all. They just looked at the paper for a while, and then stared glumly into space as though they were trying to remember something. One student completed the exam in a matter of minutes, submitted the paper, and walked out of the room, smiling. The others looked up for a moment, incredulous, then returned to their scribbling. That student was the only one who passed the exam. That student was the only one who followed the instructions fully, reading through all 20 questions before reaching the final one. The final question went like this: “Congratulations! You have followed the instructions perfectly. There is no need to answer any of the other 19 questions. Just answer this one. This question is very simple, and it is the only one that counts. Write the name of the janitor who cleans this classroom.”

They remind us of the importance of living in the moment and cherishing our life experiences. Reflecting on my own experiences with my two daughters, I recall the joy they expressed each morning, jumping out of bed with smiles and excitement for the day ahead. This made me ponder why adults often lose that zest for life. When did we stop appreciating the beauty of each day? Time, and life is indeed precious, and we should strive to cherish each moment with gratitude and joy.

CONSTANT CHANGE

Suddenly, fear grips you. Your stomach churns, your palms sweat, and your mind goes blank as the exam paper lands on your desk. Sound familiar? Right now, thousands of young people across Ireland are gearing up for their exams, having dedicated months, even years, to this moment. They’ve sacrificed so much, and now it’s time to showcase their knowledge. A balanced approach to studying is key—ensuring proper sleep, nutrition, exercise, and study time, while also nurturing the spirit through prayer and reflection.

Life is characterized by constant change and movement. It is often easier to embrace and cherish life when circumstances align with our dreams, leading to feelings of success in our personal and professional lives. However, challenges arise during moments of struggle, uncertainty, and unhappiness. Life presents us with a spectrum of experiences, from grief and anger to joy and gratitude.

MAKE THE BEST OF IT

Macalla an Chláir

le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

Your worth is not defined by exam results; it’s rooted in your individuality, talents, and the positive impact you can make in the world. As you prepare for your exams, don’t forget to lean on your support system. Your loved ones are there for you, ready to offer prayers, encouragement, and love. Embrace moments of joy and relaxation, too!

Macalla an Chláir

le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

The above the story, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of following instructions and thinking critically before diving into tasks. For the student in the story success came not from rushing into action but from taking the time to understand the situation fully.

As adults, we often forget the importance of living happily, allowing days to pass us by without appreciation. Many ﬁnd themselves moping over things beyond their control, such as the weather or gossip. This can lead to prolonged periods of sadness, where individuals may unintentionally bring others down with them. However, life is not meant to be lived in misery. We are here to embrace and cherish each day, face challenges, and grow from our experiences. Sharing joy can uplift those around us, creating a positive ripple effect. Each moment is unique, and every individual is distinct, making our life experiences invaluable. We must cherish this beautiful gift, as no amount of money can buy another chance at life. Understanding that our time is

Exams may not define us, but they certainly help us grow, equipping us with skills for the next chapter in life, whether that’s pursuing higher education, taking a gap year, or entering the workforce.

As Benjamin Franklin noted, the only certainties in life are “death and taxes”, but recent global events, particularly the recent enough COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted additional truths: everything changes and ends, plans can quickly unravel, and life is not always fair. These realities remind us that we are not always in control of our destinies. Despite the difﬁculties we face, there is hope that these challenging times will eventually pass, allowing us to adapt and ﬁnd new pathways forward.

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to overlook details and rush into decisions. However, this tale encourages us to pause, reflect, and ensure we grasp the bigger picture before proceeding. Whether in academics, work, or life, taking a moment to read the fine print can lead to unexpected rewards.

EMBRACING LIFE

So, the next time you face a challenge, remember the lesson from the story: sometimes, the simplest answer is the one that requires the most thought.

Pray for Knowledge

Embracing the certainties of life can lead to deeper understanding and fulﬁllment, as suggested by the Lord Jesus Christ’s call

EMBRACING LIFE

As June rolls in, students across Ireland find themselves at a pivotal moment: exam season. The Junior Cert and Leaving Cert exams loom large, a rite of passage that

As I light my daily candle and pray for these students and especially for my eldest daughter who is doing her Leaving Cert, I remember a prayer that always brought me comfort during exam time: ‘Holy Spirit, send your power, help me to remember all that I have learnt, inspire me with the gift of Knowledge. Amen!’ Let’s support our young people during this challenging time, wishing them all the best as they embark on this important journey. As exam season rolls around, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you have a child or loved one like I have facing these challenges. The pressure can be intense, with teachers reminding students that these are the most crucial exams of their lives. But amidst the stress and tension, it’s important to remember that exams, while significant, are just one part of a much larger journey.

Embracing the certainties of life can lead to deeper understanding and fulﬁllment, as suggested by the Lord Jesus Christ’s call

to take up one’s cross and follow a meaningful path. The essence lies in how we embrace and cherish our experiences and navigate our journey. Life is inherently fragile, and the awareness of our mortality can inspire us to live each day fully. Recognizing that tomorrow is not guaranteed encourages us to cherish our moments and make the most of our time. Each day presents a new opportunity to engage with life, to dance through our experiences rather than merely endure them. It is vital to reﬂect on our lives and ensure that we are not held back by fear or regret. As we age, the importance of infusing our lives with meaning becomes even more pronounced. We should strive to seize each day, asking ourselves if we truly lived or if we let opportunities slip away. Ultimately, life is about making it meaningful and embracing and cherishing every moment.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, take a moment to reﬂect on the simplicity of your younger years, a time before adult worries took hold. Life moves quickly, and being present is essential. In light of ongoing global challenges like wars, conﬂicts, and climate change, let’s focus on making the most of our current moments. Appreciate what you have, celebrate your unique gifts, and engage in acts of kindness. Express gratitude,

First and foremost, take a moment to acknowledge the incredible person you are. You are unique, loved, and cherished by your family and friends, regardless of the grades you achieve.

love, prayers and compassion daily, as small gestures can have a significant impact. We all have the capacity to share love and support one another. As we navigate tough times, let’s choose love over fear and stand in solidarity with those in need. Together, we can create a more compassionate world. During challenging times, it’s important to appreciate life and the well-being of others. Reflect on your circumstances and recognize the struggles faced by those less fortunate. Emphasize the importance of compassion and gratitude, urging each other to support, pray and uplift one another. In moments of fear, love, prayers and connection are vital, even when physical closeness is not possible. Cherish every moment you’re given, for life moves faster than we realize. Take a pause, look around, and truly ap preciate the people, the experiences, and the blessings you have right now. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of life, but these small, ordinary moments often become the ones we wish we could relive. Time doesn’t wait, so make the most of every single day—love deep ly, laugh often, pray constantly and savor the beauty that surrounds you. May each of you who read this be blessed and cherish your life and the lives of others with gratitude, especially during these worrying times. Let us remember those whose lives are at stake, those most vulnerable, and those who must choose between health and financial stability. Let us not forget those without homes or those working tirelessly on the front lines, highlighting their dedication and sacrifice. Amen.

Laughter and fun are essential for your well-being and can help your mind process all that you’ve studied. Lastly, don’t lose sight of your faith or whatever brings you comfort. In these challenging times, connecting with your beliefs can provide strength and peace. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. You are amazing and fabulous just as you are, and no exam can change that. Thought for the Week

As your thought for the week, let’s embrace the power of dreams and the courage to act on them. With exams approaching, many of us find solace in candle shrines, where prayers from parents and students alike illuminate our hopes. St. Paul reminds us, “With God on our side, who can be against us?” This faith is a comforting reminder that we are never alone, especially during these challenging times. Today’s youth face a vibrant yet demanding world, navigating the pressures of academic competition and the uncertainties of the future. The weight of expectations can sometimes feel overwhelming, leading to struggles with anxiety and mental health. Yet, the resilience and optimism of young people shine through, guiding them through tough times. As exams draw near, let’s pray for our students. May they find strength, peace, and clarity in their studies. A heartfelt prayer can be a source of encouragement. It asks for wisdom, focus, and the ability to manage stress, reminding students that their efforts will bear fruit. are designed to test their knowl

love, prayers and compassion daily, as small gestures can have a significant impact. We all have the capacity to share love and support one another. As we navigate tough times, let’s choose love over fear and stand in solidarity with those in need. Together, we can create a more compassionate world. During challenging times, it’s important to appreciate life and the well-being of others. Reflect on your circumstances and recognize the struggles faced by those less fortunate. Emphasize the importance of compassion and gratitude, urging each other to support, pray and uplift one another. In moments of fear, love, prayers and connection are vital, even when physical closeness is not possible. Cherish every moment you’re given, for life moves faster than we realize. Take a pause, look around, and truly ap preciate the people, the experiences, and the blessings you have right now. It’s easy to get caught up in the rush of life, but these small, ordinary moments often become the ones we wish we could relive. Time doesn’t wait, so make the most of every single day—love deeply, laugh often, pray constantly and savor the beauty that surrounds you. May each of you who read this be blessed and cherish your life and the lives of others with gratitude, especially during these worrying times. Let us remember those whose lives are at stake, those most vulnerable, and those who must choose between health and financial stability. Let us not forget those without homes or those working tirelessly on the front lines, highlighting their dedication and sacrifice. Amen.

Bliain

in Inis

Bliain in Inis Oirr: Earrach ar TG4 san oíche dé Máirt

Two great Irish language events this weekend/ Dhá imeacht gaeilge an deireadh seachtaine seo

BDia dhaoibh a chairde.

ÍGÍ ag breathnú ar TG4 san oíche Dé Máirt, an 13ú lá de Bhealtaine ag 7.30pm, nuair a bheas an clár ‘’Bliain in Inis

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

Oirr: Earrach ar TG4 san oíche dé Máirt

Oírr’’ le feiceáil. Is í an Earrach a bheas faoi chaibidil agus na fataí dhá sá.

Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com.

Buailigí isteach ag Tigh Tom Steele in Inis san oíche amárach (Dé hAoine an 30ú lá de Mheitheamh) ó 9.30pm ar aghaidh, áit a bheas ár gcairde An Clár as Gaeilge ag seoladh a suíomh idirlíne nua WWW. ANCLARASGAEILGE.NET. Agus ansin maidin Dé Sathairn, (an 31ú lá de Mheitheamh) beidh Preab nó Pop-up Gaeltacht ar siúl i mBaile Uí Bheoláin ag Anita’s ón 11am go 1pm. Bainigí sás astub sin!

BÍGÍ ag breathnú ar TG4 san oíche Dé Máirt, an 13ú lá de Bhealtaine ag 7.30pm, nuair a bheas an clár ‘’Bliain in Inis

Oírr’’ le feiceáil. Is í an Earrach a bheas faoi chaibidil agus na fataí dhá sá. AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com.

Mo shean-chara Pádraic Póil as Inis Oírr ag cur fhataí sa ngarraí

Imeachtaí/Events:

SIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am,

• CILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar

Mo shean-chara Pádraic Póil as Inis Oírr ag cur fhataí sa ngarraí

lIMEACHTAI: Caint, ceiliúradh, craic, agus comhrá an deireadh seachtaine seo!

• LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach

Imeachtaí/Events:

• Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM

• CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

• SIONNA – Gaeilge le Chéile, Ionad Siopadóireacht Skycourt, 11am, chuile Dé Domhnaigh

• CILL ROIS – Preab-Ghaeltacht chuile oíche Dé Ceadaoin ag 8pm i mBuggles Bar

• LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach

• INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Máirt ag Zest 11am, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), Dé hAoine The Market Bar 11am, agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm. Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com

• Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM

• CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

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

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

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

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

Clare backs national call to ‘Love This Place’ as summer season kicks oﬀ

Clare County Council joins Leave No Trace Ireland in promoting respect for our natural heritage**

As the summer season begins and more people head outdoors to enjoy Ireland’s natural beauty, Clare County Council is proud to support Leave No Trace Ireland’s 2025 “Love This Place” campaign launched this week to inspire responsible enjoyment of Ireland’s rich land-

scapes.

Now in its fifth year, “Love This Place” is a national campaign supported by Clare County Council alongside other key partners including the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the Office of Public Works, Sport Ireland, Coillte, and Waterways Ireland.

With Clare’s coastline, Burren uplands, forest parks,

and waterways drawing growing numbers of walkers, swimmers, and families, the message this summer is clear: “If you love this place, leave no trace.”

Clare’s natural landscapes—from the Cliffs of Moher to the Loop Head Peninsula and Lough Derg— are among the county’s most treasured assets. However, increased visitation in recent years has led to visible pressures including trail erosion, littering, and damage to delicate habitats.

National figures reflect growing concern, with 96% of wildfires linked to human activity and 98% of people saying they value time in nature. The campaign aims to tackle this disconnect with three clear actions for the public:

lBe responsible with your dog – keep dogs on leads and clean up after them.

lProtect wildlife and wild places – take litter home and don’t disturb animals.

lStay on marked trails

– to avoid damaging fragile ecosystems.

Over the coming months, Clare will be part of a national roll-out of *Love This Place* initiatives, including local clean-up days, educational outreach, and online storytelling featuring voices from around the country— such as dog owners, landowners, and outdoor recreation groups.

Clare residents and visitors are encouraged to take part in events and follow Leave

No Trace principles while exploring local trails, beaches, and parks.

Maura Kiely, CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland, said: “We all have a role to play in protecting the natural spaces we love—whether that’s picking up litter, keeping dogs under control, or simply sticking to the path. This campaign is about building pride and stewardship in our communities, and Clare’s support is vital to that effort.”

Speaking at the campaign

launch, Minister Dara Calleary TD said: “Ireland’s natural heritage is one of our greatest assets. The *Love This Place* campaign reminds us that protecting it is a shared responsibility— whether you’re visiting the Burren, walking the beach at Spanish Point, or exploring your local woods.”

The campaign will culminate in “Love This Place Day” on July 28th, coinciding with World Nature Conservation Day.

Clare TD Dooley plays key role in EU ﬁsheries meeting as aquaculture sector pushes for policy reform

by Lisa Mullaly

lisa@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S Minister of State for Fisheries and the Marine, Timmy Dooley TD (FF), took part in a key meeting with EU Commissioner for Fisheries and Oceans, Costas Kadís, last week as Irish seafood sector representatives gathered at Castletownbere Fishery Harbour Centre to discuss future policy and funding for aquaculture and fisheries.

The meeting brought together stakeholders from across Ireland’s fisheries, aquaculture, processing sectors and seafood co-operatives, including IFA Aquaculture, which was represented by Vice-Chair Catherine McManus and Policy Executive

Teresa Morrissey.

Also in attendance were

MEPs Nina Carberry, Billy Kelleher, Barry Cowen, Cynthia Ní Mhurchú and Sean Kell*; Senators Manus Boyle and Noel O’Donovan; and locally elected representatives including Christopher O’Sullivan TD, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM).

IFA Aquaculture used the opportunity to call for reform of EU aquaculture policy as part of the Common Fisheries Policy review, and for ring-fenced funding under the European Maritime Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF).

“The Commissioner’s comments in relation to the EU Commission’s priority to support the EU Aquaculture

sector were very welcome,” said Catherine McManus.

“It was encouraging to hear the recognition from the Commissioner that Aquaculture has the potential to increase EU seafood production and contribute to food security as the fastest growing food production sector globally.”

She added that the Commissioner acknowledged that aquaculture development is a shared competence with Member States, and noted:

“Minister of State Dooley and his DAFM officials should take note that they have the ability to set ambitions for the Irish Aquaculture sector with the support of the EU Commission and we are hopeful they will act on this going forward.”

The engagement with Commissioner Kadís coincided with his visit to Ireland for European Maritime Day 2025, hosted by Cork City Council, which brought together policymakers, scientists, ocean leaders and members of the public.

The meeting followed the recent publication of the ‘BIM Business of Seafood 2024’ report, which showed a 25% increase in the value of Irish aquaculture production, now worth €211 million to the Irish economy. This growth was largely driven by the value of Irish organic salmon sales, although oyster and rope mussel producers in the South-West experienced a particularly challenging year.

BIM has also confirmed that the ‘Sustainable Aqua-

culture Scheme’ will reopen for applications next Wednesday, remaining open until September 5. The scheme offers a 50% support rate for eligible aquaculture

operators for investments in product innovation, energy efficiency, renewable energy, safety equipment, animal health and welfare, and food quality and hygiene.

lFISHERIES AND OCEANS: Timmy Dooley TD

Arts & Culture

Mela Festival returning to Shannon Town Park

by LISA MULLALY lisa@clareecho.ie

MELA, a free arts and culture celebration, is coming to Shannon Town Park this June Bank Holiday Monday.

Run by Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre with support from Clare County Council, Shannon Tidy Towns, Shannon Community Partnership and Shared Island, Mela is a full-day event that aims to bring together members of the community with different backgrounds and cultures to celebrate a shared love for music and art.

Chantal McCormick, co-founder and creative director of Fidget Feet, spoke to The Clare Echo about how the idea of Clare Mela came about and the process of curating what she hopes will become an annual event.

She said the idea for Clare Mela began around 2020, when the country was coming out of COVID and the Arts Council had introduced a fund to support outdoor work. Around that time, Fidget Feet had been invited to perform at the Belfast Mela, and that experience stayed with her.

“I was just so inspired,” she said. “They have been going for, I think, 17 years.”

She explained that Mela is the name of a traditional Indian celebration, and while many Mela festivals exist across the UK, particularly where Indian communities have settled, each one takes on a unique identity based on the people and place behind it.

“It’s a mother and son who run the event in Belfast, and it’s a real celebration of all cultures and all beliefs, and it is really colourful.”

When planning for 2021, Chantal thought it would be exciting to try something similar in Clare. That’s when Fidget Feet began working with Clare County Council under a three-year MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to test out the idea in different locations.

“We did the first one in Ennis, and it was a really great programme, but we didn’t get that many audiences,” she said. “Then the next time we tried Two Mile Gate. The day that we did it was a bit rainy, so there weren’t that many people there either.”

Last year’s event marked a turning point.

“We partnered with Shannon

Tidy Towns and Creative Places,” she said. “We had a sunny day, and what worked was we collaborated with a local group—they were able to get the word out locally, and they brought different things with them as well. They programmed certain acts, and we programmed certain acts. It was in the park, which is a much nicer space, so that’s why we decided to come back this year and just build on what we did last year.”

This year’s Clare Mela will have two performance areas, the first at the pavilion in Shannon Town Park and the second on the basketball courts. There will also be roaming performers, an animal farm, and a wide selection of food trucks.

Activities at the pavilion will kick off at 12 with Balor O’Brien, a traditional Irish storyteller. Following that, there will be performances from John Nutekpor showcasing African drum percussion, duo Steo Wall and Brian Flemming, local rapper Willzee, and a DJ set from Jym Daly alongside aerial stunts from Fidget Feet. To close out the event, Fidget Feet will perform an aerial and fire display.

Chantal said a big part of the Mela is about finding out who’s already active in the area and including them.

“The essence of it is to kind of figure out locally what artists are there or what groups are there that might want to perform,” she said. “But then also it’s making sure that the local community who come, the local audience is also diverse.”

As part of this year’s lineup, Mela will feature a mix of returning and new acts.

“We have Willzee, who is a Clare rapper from the Travelling Community,” Chantal said. “We work with this incredible Chinese dragon group, they come all the way from Dublin. There’s a large Chinese community in Shannon, so we like to kind of bring that element in.”

She said the event has also been given a boost by funding from Shared Island, which has allowed a collaboration with the Belfast Mela. “They are going to bring three of their Indian dancers,” she said. “And with Fidget Feet, we have started the process of creating a new aerial Indian piece, so there will be three Indian dancers and five Fidget Feet dancers performing on an aerial float on the basketball courts.”

In the run-up to the event, Fidget Feet has also been working with young people from local schools.

“We are working with about 140 young people from four different primary schools, teaching them flashmob choreography,” she said. “We wish we could have gone to more, but hopefully next year that’s what we will do. We can run a programme for a good three months before the event happens.”

Chantal said one of her favourite things about Mela is how every community gives it their own twist.

“What I like about this one is it’s really that typical Irish day fair. You’ve got petting zoos, magicians, face-painting, all the bits we know and feel comfortable with,” she said. “And then we’ve brought in the diverse elements.”

She said last year’s event was a real success. “We had so many different people from lots of different backgrounds, and everyone was just dancing and having fun.” As for the team behind the event, she described Fidget Feet as a close-knit group with a shared purpose.

“We are 27 years old. We really take on the traditional circus ethos, everyone does everything,” she said. “One minute you might be hanging off a trapeze all sparkling, and the next you’re shovelling horse shit. We all work together, eat together, play together. It’s a non-hierarchical ethos.”

She added that the goal is simple but powerful: “We want to bring a day where everyone connects to their child heart or their univer-

Free youth art exhibition opens in Ennis

by Lisa Mullaly lisa@clareecho.ie

A FREE art exhibition inspired and created by young people living with lifelong health conditions is currently on display in Súil Gallery in Ennis and will run until June 7.

The exhibition entitled ‘JOURNEYS– Everything Begins Somewhere An Art Exhibition by Young Creators ’ is facilitated by ‘Helium Arts’ an Irish charity which aims to bring creativity and joy to children and young people between the ages of 6 to 16 who are living with lifelong health conditions.

The Ennis exhibition ofﬁcially opened on May 24 with a ‘family celebration’ event.

sal heart—the joy that we all have. It doesn’t matter what culture we come from or what we like or don’t like, fundamentally we’re all the same. We’re all connected.”

Chantal said one of her favourite memories from last year was seeing everyone in the park just being together. “There was this moment when Jym was DJing, there were kids running around, all these different families dancing, and Fidget Feet costumes just bringing the light. Shannon Tidy Towns were so proud of what they had helped achieve. We had over a thousand people there and everyone was smiling. The park was taken over by the community, with the community.”

She also pointed out the behind-the-scenes work that goes into making it all happen.

“I think what people forget is the amount of organising and funding that’s required to run a free event. We’re fundraising throughout the year,” she said. “So if you’re thinking about it, don’t just think about it. Really come and bring that energy. The more successful it is, the more likely councillors and funders will support us again next year.”

Looking ahead, Chantal hopes Clare Mela will become part of something bigger.

“My dream is that we’ll have Melas in every county in Ireland,” she said. “That we can work with all the arts officers and different artists around the country to run really authentic, diverse events where everyone feels welcome.”

Speaking about the exhibition launch Cadhla Brock, Community Outreach and Communications Ofﬁcer Helium Arts said: “It was really exciting because I had actually had been there on the ﬁrst day of the camp at easter so I got to see all of these little ideas kind of come up and then for it actually be displayed in the gallery then it was amazing because the kids coming in then at such a young age to be able to see their art on the walls in such an amazing space was incredible. There was such excitement we had our doodle table in the middle of the room they all were creating.”

The project is funded by Creative Ireland through the Creative Youth Nurture Fund 2023-2025 and Creative Ireland’s Creative Health and Wellbeing programme in conjunction with Tipperary County Council, Clare County Council and Limerick City and County Council.

‘Helium Arts’ offers free art workshops, which take place in hospital waiting rooms, community settings, and online for those with conditions such as diabetes, epilepsy, spina biﬁda, heart conditions, juvenile arthritis, rare

conditions, and more.

These workshops are led by professional artists, supported by friendly volunteers, and include an on-site medic at every session to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone involved.

The exhibition, currently on display in Ennis, is one of two showcases which celebrates the talent, creativity and strength of the young people who take part in ‘Helium Arts’ workshops. The exhibition also highlights the charity’s growing work in the area of inclusion health, which supports children at risk of social exclusion. The second showcase will take place in the IMMA Studios/ Stables. Both showcases are free of charge and will also feature fun, free activities for all ages with the sub-theme of ‘For A Better Tomorrow’. Cadhla told the Clare Echo; “Part of the gallery is to do with shadow and light and our showcase event is about journeys and the journeys that the children take so the shadow and the light within their own journey.

As part of Clare County Councils Cruinniú n nÓg schedule of activities, ‘Helium Arts’ will also be running a free taster workshop on June 7 from 10:30am - 12pm exclusively for children (ages 8–12) living with lifelong physical health conditions, with professional artists and on-site medical support. Registration is required in advance by emailing hello@helium.ie with ‘7th June Workshop’ in the subject line. There will also be an Open Studio drop-in event happening from 2-4pm. All are welcome to experience this art taster, with no booking required and free entry.

Helium Arts will continue their work supporting young people with life-long health through a series of summer camps taking place across the country. The camp for county Clare will be held in Ennis C.B.S on July 22-24.

lJOURNEYS: (L-R) James Lafferty, Red Cross Clare/ Anne Rynne, Director of Service Clare Local Authority/ Clare Colleran Molloy, Mayor of Ennis/ Siobhán Mulcahy, Arts Ofﬁcer Clare/ Helene Hugel, CEO Helium Arts/ Cadhla Brock, Community Outreach and Communications Ofﬁcer Helium Arts

lMELA: A Fidget Feet aerial performer at Clare Mela 2024

Dealing with anxiety

HAVE you ever left the door open for an impostor to enter your house? Have you ever been in your house and not seen the impostor living beside you for weeks or months or even years? Subtlety and acceptance are two characteristics we all have when the impostor comes to visit. I believe that anxiety is the imposter we all make our acquaintance with at some point in our live. The subtlety of anxiety in our lives goes unnoticed, not because it’s absent because it weaves itself into our thoughts, habits and decisions, and we mistake it for personality, assertiveness or productivity.

Anxiety isn’t always the loud, heart racing panic we imagine. It can be hesitation before making a call, the need to check something one more time, the avoidance of conversations or the endless overthinking of what we said or didn’t say. Anxiety can become a background hum, quiet but persistent. It can shape how we experience the world. It colours our relationship work, our sense of self worth. So, we can decide to ask ourselves a few questions that may lead to answers that released imposture. Hello is to take back con-

trol of our thoughts.

- Do I feel easily, overwhelmed by normal daily task?

- Do I often feel mentally or physically exhausted for no obvious reason?

- Do I often feel nervous restless or on edge without a clear reason?

- Do I have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep because my mind won’t stop racing?

- Do my worries interfere with my daily activities?

- Do I experience physical symptoms?

- Do I often feel nervous too?

- Do I struggle to control my worries?

- Do I experience physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath or stomach issues during stress?

If you find yourself answering yes several of these questions, it may be worth exploring the feeling further. In my clinic I see people of all ages present with the imposter of anxiety all with varying degrees of it. Children may show through clinginess, tantrums, fear of being alone and stomach aches. Teenagers may show as irritability, withdrawal, social issues and academic pressure. Adults may

show as panic disorders social anxiety and fatigue.

The first few sessions at the clinic are focused on calming the nervous system with Reiki mindset tools and appropriate bushflower remedies, each tailored to each client. Biomagnetic pair therapy kinesiology, acupressure and reflexology are all interwoven to the requirement of each person with intention to bring harmony, balance and a new relaxed calm way of life. Clients that release anxiety from their lives take back their lives, are calm, take new hobbies, confident, free, happier and more joyful.

Some affirmations to help release anxiety:

- I’m enough just as I am.

- I am calm no matter what happens today, I can handle it.

- I focus on my breath and anchor myself in the present moment.

- I am ready to let go of what no longer serves me.

- I embrace myself as I am.

Located on the ever-popular Clare Road in Ennis, this three-bedroom end-of-terrace home offers a rare opportunity to secure a property just five minutes’ walk from the town centre. Its superb position also places it within a five-minute drive of the Ennis Bypass and M18 motorway, providing excellent connectivity to Limerick, Shannon, and Galway. The property is surrounded by a host of local amenities, including shops, schools, and green areas all within easy walking distance. Ennis Bus and Rail Station is also just a short ten-minute stroll away, making it ideal for commuters.

A truly unique opportunity to acquire a substantial residence in the west end of the seaside resort of Kilkee, a town that has just been declared as Ireland’s top hidden gem by Lonely Planet. The property is located in Merton Square just 150 metres from the famous horseshoe beach that has been a favourite with tourists and locals for generations. The property has been vacant for a number of years and would qualify for vacancy grants (for qualifying applicants, subject to terms and conditions).

Situated on an elevated site with uninterrupted panoramic views overlooking Lahinch Beach, ‘Thalassa’ is a four bedroom detached home in one of the most sought after locations along the west coast of Ireland. Not often does a property with such views come to the market. Lahinch is famous as a tourist destination for many generations and draws surfers from all over the world to surf the waves of its km long beach while the Lahinch Golf Club is world-renowned having hosted the Irish Open in the past.

Lahinch’s proximity to stunning sites like the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren National Park makes it an attractive point for many to explore the west coast.

Thalassa, Seapark, Lahinch, Co. Clare

Merton Villa, Merton Square, Kilkee, Co. Clare

20 St. Flannans Terrace, Ennis, Co. Clare

FOR SALE BY ONLINE AUCTION

Work with Meaning

Great Pay & Benefits

Sinéad thriving as Brothers of Charity support worker

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

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

They also support people in community participation and integration. With a salary range from €33,699 to €46,984 and great company beneﬁts, it's a great career with meaning.

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

She worked as a hairdresser before joining the organisation and has been there for four years.

She was always interested in working in intellectual disability support and loves advocating for the person she

supports.

She assists people with leading an independent life by developing a close relationship to ﬁnd their strengths and abilities as they learn new life skills.

Sínead works in a day service and follows a timetable with activities chosen by the person supported. These include sports, employment, life skills, education and breaks away.

Sínead says she has developed an understanding of

different needs & abilities as well as excellent communication skills, patience & empathy plus creative skills. She is happy working with a great team where she has made life-long friends and enjoys being part of the Ennis community. To ﬁnd out more about working with Brothers of Charity Services, please visit careers.brothersofcharity.ie

*Pictured are Sínead Allis and Brendan Barrett

Support journalism in Clare by subscribing to www.clareecho.ie/subscribe

National award for Moy Hill Farm

MOY Hill Farm, based near Lahinch in North Clare, has won a national award for its work as a food producer.

The Ashford Castle Estate was the setting for this year’s Euro-Toques Ireland Food Awards, a heartfelt celebration of Ireland’s food producers and craftspeople.

Founded in 1986 by Myrtle Allen, Euro-Toques Ireland has long championed local food integrity, craftsmanship, and community-led gastronomy. The 2025 Awards continue this mission with the theme: “Honouring Ireland’s Kitchen Table”.

Held on Monday, the event brought together chefs and producers to honour the people behind the country’s most exceptional ingredients. Seven awards were presented across the categories of Water, Land, Farm, Dairy, Artisan Produce, and Traditional Craft.

The Farm award went to Moy Hill Farm, run by Fergal Smith. The Clare farmer runs the 66-acre Moy hill community farm alongside his wife Sally and friends.

They were presented the award for their ethical, regenerative egg production and their holistic approach to farming that nourishes both land and people. Through

education, CSA boxes, and on-farm transparency, they foster a resilient, community-rooted food culture.

Conor Halpenny of Square Dundalk, Chair of Euro-Toques Ireland, added:

“We are honouring those who have kept Irish food grounded – producers and craftspeople who quietly shape our national identity through their work every single day.”

Champagne experience at the Armada Hotel

A RARE Champagne Experience Led by World-Class Sommelier at Armada Hotel this Friday 30th May

Armada Hotel in Spanish Point is delighted to announce an exclusive Champagne Dinner this Friday night, hosted by one of the world’s most respected sommeliers, Julie Dupouy. This special evening will mark Julie’s first Clare event, making it a unique and memorable occasion for wine and food lovers across the region.

Julie Dupouy, originally from South West France, has earned an international reputation for excellence in wine and beverage expertise. Having qualified as a sommelier in 2003, she moved to Ireland in 2004, where she has worked with many of the country’s top chefs and restaurants. Julie has represented Ireland at the highest level, winning the Irish National Sommelier Competition three times and placing third in the world at the ASI Sommelier World Championships in Mendoza, Argentina in 2016. Guests at the Champagne Dinner at the Armada will enjoy an elegant, 5 course tasting menu paired with a curated selection of exceptional Champagnes, personally selected and introduced by Julie herself. With her wealth of knowledge, warmth, and storytelling flair, Julie promises to take guests on a sparkling journey through the world of Cham-

Financial wellness course in Scarriff Library

Clare County Council, in partnership with Limerick Clare Education and Training Board (LCETB), is providing ﬁnancial information to all in the community as part of the Skills for Life Programme.

The Financial Wellness course will take place in Edna O’Brien Library, Scarriff this June. This four-week course, in partnership with the LCETB, is free and open to all adults. People can register for the course on fetchcourses.ie. Participants will learn about managing debt, budgeting for a family, budgeting for living alone, grant funding, saving, social welfare beneﬁts and taxes. Refreshments will also be provided and parents with children are welcome.

This new nationwide initiative is aimed at equipping individuals with essential skills to navigate modern life. Available across all 30 local authority library services in Ireland, the programme will offer support in: basic digital skills; ﬁnancial literacy; media literacy; business and employment skills; health awareness; and sustainable lifestyles and environmental awareness.

The programme’s core objective is to provide equitable access, across all library services, to resources, workshops, and training that foster lifelong learning, personal development, and community engagement.

Helen Walsh, Clare County Librarian, said, “The Skills for Life programme is part of the national library strategy, ‘The Library is the place’. Libraries are an essential

part of local communities, and I’m delighted that we are facilitating lifelong learning with the Financial Wellness Programme in Scarriff Library.”

This course will initially take place in Scarriff Library and will then take place in other libraries around the county in the autumn.

Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competition. 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.

• Health & Safety Officer

Closing date: 12 Noon Friday 20th June 2025

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.

and

PANEL OF CLEANERS

Various locations across Limerick and Clare

Ref. No. 017181

Applications will be accepted through the online recruitment system on www.lcetb.ie/recruitment C.V.’s will also be accepted by emailing recruitment@lcetb.ie or can be dropped into LCETB Head Office, Dooradoyle Road, Limerick.

Closing time and date for receipt of applications is 12 noon Tuesday, 10th June, 2025. Garda vetting will apply.

Shortlisting may apply. Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board is an Equal Opportunities Employer. Canvassing will disqualify.

CLARE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT DAC

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

Clare Tourism is now hiring for

• Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk Manager

- Fixed Term Contract

HOW TO APPLY / FURTHER INFORMATION:

If you are interested in applying or wish to obtain further information about the position, contact the HR department at careers@claretourismdev.ie or email your CV with a cover letter to careers@claretourismdev.ie

Closing date for applications is Friday, 13th June 2025, at 5pm.

pagne in an unforgettable evening of food, drink,

celebration.

Newmarket Celtic clinch twentieth Clare Cup title with late winner from Hayes

come with the ultimate cost of denying the East Clare side a fairytale finish to a hugely encouraging season.

AMIDST a showdown of almost four seasons, fittingly it was the man of all seasons Eoin Hayes that popped up for a late winner to cement Newmarket Celtic’s historic 20th Clare Cup crown over newcomers Tulla United in Frank Healy Park in Doora.

In contrast to the infamous Cromwellian quote about the Burren, there was more than enough rain to drown everyone in attendance in an incessant first half, only to require sunscreen by the final whistle as Newmarket utilised all their experience to inch over the line.

And it was a game of inches, actually re-emphasised by that sole goal that stemmed from a great chance for Tulla only to end up in the opposite net only seconds later.

A Jashar Aliu corner was eventually worked into the box where a Dan Withycombe shot was blocked, only to see Dean Hegarty immediately spray a delivery from his own half to substitute Cian McDonough in the right corner to cross to the back post where fellow replacement Hayes inevitable made no mistake with a header to the left corner of Simon Kilker’s net.

It was the only time that a supremely disciplined Tulla side were caught out of position and it would

Led by the talismanic Daragh Corry once more, Mike Moloney’s side did have their chances to upset the odds and carve their own names on the cup for the very first time. Crucially however, on a day when one felt that they needed to take every goal sighting that came their way, Tulla failed to grasp their chances and would receive a harsh lesson as a result.

They actually tested Shane Cusack’s reflexes after only two minutes when the ever-impressive Adam Kilker combined with Eanna Culloo on the left wing to centre for Ayoub Aguerram to flick towards goal. However, their biggest opening came right on the stroke of halftime when a Simon Kilker kick-out was headed on by Corry and when the last defender slipped, Dan Withycombe was clean through but didn’t catch the shot with any venom and a relieved Shane Cusack welcomingly took a 0-0 stalemate into the break.

Newmarket had their moments too amidst a rain-soaked opening period, with Tadhg Noonan having a shot blocked by a defender in the 18th minute while he would turn provider for Dean Hegarty to unleash a powerful effort that goalkeeper Kilker could only parry before grabbing it at the second at-

tempt in the 34th minute.

Newmarket’s front pair would combine in similar fashion ten minutes later, this time Noonan holding up possession from a Shane Cusack clearance to tee up Hegarty to drive a shot just wide of the left post.

Tulla re-emerged with renewed vigour but despite a teasing cross from Eanna Culloo in their initial attack that just flashed across goal, the pendulum incrementally veered towards a more wily New-

market who received a timely jolt when their most decorated player Eoin Hayes was sprung from the bench just before the hour mark.

In truth, Celtic should have been a goal up by that stage as a Tadhg Noonan interception at halfway put Nathan Boaventura through on goal to first be superbly denied by Simon Kilker before agonisingly clearing the crossbar with the rebound.

Eoin Hayes made his presence felt by testing Kilker himself in the

67th minute after cutting in from the right wing.

However, Tulla’s best chance of a second half breakthrough would come eight minutes later when an Ayoub Aguerram delivery was defected up off a defender and was just missed by the outstretched Daragh Corry at the back post.

Tulla were still pushing for an elusive winner in the 84th minute when Newmarket survived an initial scare from a corner, only to ruthlessly finish up the other end within seconds to edge 1-0 in front.

Tulla upped the ante but found superb defensive anchors Anthony Dabrynets and captain Harvey Cullinan in obstinate mood to keep out Corry and an injury-time Diarmuid Molloy free to soar to their first Clare Cup title in five years.

Cullinan fittingly collected the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup and the Man of the Match award while for the evergreen goalscoring hero Eoin Hayes it was a record-equalling tenth winners medal.

Very satisfying to take the Cup home, says O'Brien

NEWMARKET Celtic are reflecting on a historic 20th Clare Cup, however manager Eoin O'Brien remains philosophical, admitting Newmarket were lucky not to concede early in the game.

“Definitely it’s very satisfying to take home the cup,” O'Brien told The Clare Echo after the 1-0 defeat over first-time finalists Tulla United.

A nine-time Clare Cup champion as a player, Eoin was succesful in his bid to win his first as Newmarket Celtic manager.

“It’s a great reward for ten or eleven months of work.

"Being the last game, this is almost how you remember the entire season and it sets the tone for next season for players and coaches so winning this makes the off season a little bit easier as you have something tangible to show for all your efforts.

“Look, every other team has probably trained as hard and put in as many nights but it’s just easier to go back in with a pot on the board and something to show for your efforts.”

He continued, “Conditions were awful but in terms of the game itself, it was probably a similar representation of our entire season in that when we were good we were very good but our first ten or fifteen minutes wouldn’t normally be good enough to win any cup final.

“We were very lucky not to go one down but in fairness we responded very well and created some really good chances after that and I think we were probably the better team in the second half which maybe coincided with the sun coming out because it was a really strange evening.

“So it was a good representation of our season

overall but we’ll take it.”

Injury marked the end of Eoin’s playing career and the start of his management career with Newmarket Celtic at the end of 2022.

Having lost last year’s cup final to Avenue United on penalties, Eoin admitted that he knew his side would have to show character to claim their 20th title.

"Eoin [Hayes] was really struggling during the week with an injury from the Shannon Town game and he basically played through injury.

“He was probably our utility man and understood his role really well and it was really satisfying for us as a management group that the substitutes combined for the goal which is testament to the mentality of the two lads.

“It’s no coincidence that Hayeso is still able to keep going to such high standards considering the amount

of miles that he has clocked up.

“Don’t get me wrong, we’ve gone through a lot of disappointing days as well but a key message that we’d try to give to the younger lads is that you just have to keep coming back.

"It’s a point that I also made to Tulla in the dressing room afterwards, you have to experience the final defeats, and we had those particularly in the Munster Junior Cup Final of 2016 and a lot of tough days on the hurling field in 2009, ’10 and ’11. I think people kind of forget that when looking back and saying ‘oh you won this and your won that’. I can actually pinpoint the dates and years that we lost big games and finals too just as much as the wins.”

Thankfully for the new manager, Saturday will be remembered as a cup final win and his first trophy as manager.

Newmarket Celtic: Shane Cusack; Ian Collins, Anthony Dabrynets, Harvey Cullinan, Cathal Cullinan; Aaron Rudd, Jack Kelly, Conor McDaid, Nathan Boaventura; Dean Hegarty, Tadgh Noonan Subs: Eoin Hayes for Boaventura (57); Cian McDonough for McDaid (57); Kieran Hackett for Noonan (74); Ronan McCormack for Kelly (94) Tulla United: Simon Kilker; Fiachra Hale, Diarmuid Molloy, Dara Ryan, Adam McNamara; Eanna Culloo, Adam Kilker, Ayoub Aguerram, Sean Withycombe; Daragh Corry, Dan Withycombe Subs: Callum Casey for S. Withycombe (66); Jashar Aliu for Aguerram (77); Fionn Ryan for Hale (77); Frankie O’Sullivan for Culloo (89) Referee: Brian Punch

Frank Healy Park, Doora by Eoin Brennan

l Newmarket's Harvey Cullinan shoots as Éanna Culloo of Tulla United gives chase

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Newmarket's Eoin O'Brien celebrates with his daughter

Photo by Joe Buckley

Rain can't dampen spirits on CDSL Cup Final Day

l A healthy crowd showed out at Frank Healy Park, Doora, at the weekend as Newmarket Celtic and Tulla United competed for the showpiece trophy in Clare soccer

Photos by Joe Buckley

SATISFYING END TO 'STRANGE WEEK' AS CLARE SINK LIMERICK

MUNSTER SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP RD5

LIMERICK 0-24 CLARE 3-20

Venue: TUS Gaelic Grounds, Limerick

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

CLARE senior hurling manager Brian Lohan admitted that it was a "very fristrating year" for his side, who were resigned to the fact that they were out of the All Ireland Championship ahead of their season-ending win in Limerick last weekend.

Taking some positives from the 3-20 to 0-24 victory in Limerick against one of Clare's greatest rivals, Lohan said, “We got some of our guys back on the field and got a good performance and a good result, which was important.

“It was a strange week to be out of the championship early. We’re a lot more ambitious than that but we’ve no one to blame but ourselves."

Clare managed just one solitary win in this year's cham-

pionship campaign, along with a draw against last year's All-Ireland runners-up in Cork. Reflecting on the campaign, the reigning All-Ireland winning manager said, “It was just a very frustrating year. We knew that we were out but our year wasn’t over until after this game. And in fairness to the boys their attitude was excellent all week. They kept positive and kept working hard and got the result which was important.

“Every time you play Limerick you want to win, In fairness to our lads they tuned in right from the start and even all week, regardless of what team Limerick picked, they were determined to put in a performance and they did so we’re happy with that.

“We didn’t really know what to expect in terms of the

crowd, whether supporters were disappointed with us, but we got stuck in traffic on the way in, which was a good sign."

Lohan took a moment to acknowledge Clare's fanbase for their major role in the Banner's recent success.

“Look, our supporters have

been brilliant for this team, they’ve given us brilliant support and we really appreciate it and we thank them for what they have done for us. It’s just been brilliant to be a part of for the past couple of years, and supporters are almost like a crutch, they’re so crucial for us so thanks to them again.

Clare pipped in TG4 Munster SFC B final

LIMERICK 4-07 CLARE 4-05

Mallow

Limerick retained their TG4 Munster Senor B Football Championship title after a highly entertaining game at Mallow on Sunday.

It was a goal feast all through, but in the end two late points from Limerick was the difference.

Rebecca Delee set up the opening goal for Limerick netted by Caoimhe McNamara, and then put the ball over the bar herself, to make it 1-1 to no score after six minutes. Roisin Ambrose added another point before Teresa Collins got Clare’s ﬁrst point, with nine minutes

played. They narrowed the deﬁcit to a point after 15 minutes, when Megan Downes pounced on a defensive mistake to score a goal, to make it 1-2 to 1-1.

Clare turned the game on its head after 22 minutes, with two goals in a minute, from Lucy Shanahan who then assisted Chloe Moloney to make it 3-1 to 1-2.

Ambrose pulled a point back for Limerick and with three minutes to half time it was the Banner who were in front by 3-1 to 1-3.

But just before half time Limerick got their second goal, with Delee playing Cathy Mee in, to make it 3-1 to 2-3 and all to play for in the second half.

Two minutes into the second half and the sides were level when Caoimhe McGrath pointed for Limerick. Collins put Clare back in front, but from the restart Limerick got their third goal from Mee, making it 3-4 to 3-2.

Meadhbh MacNamara added a point for Limerick to stretch their lead and with 40 minutes gone it was 3-5 to 3-2. But again Clare responded and after a goalmouth scramble Ellie Hanrahan scored their fourth goal to level it, 4-2 to 3-5.

Points from Shanahan and Moloney put Clare in front, before Limerick got their fourth goal to retake the lead, after 49 minutes from Ambrose.

A free from Moloney had Clare back on level terms, before an Ambrose free put Limerick back in front. Delee added another from play, and with two minutes to go it was 4-7 to 4-5 to Limerick. They proved to be the ﬁnal scores as Limerick retained their title after a game worthy of the ﬁnal.

Scorers: Clare: C Moloney 1-2 (1f), L Shanahan 1-1, M Downes, E Hanrahan 1-0 each, T Collins 0-2.

CLARE: A Lenihan; C Byrne, G Harvey, R Doohan; S Melican, J Doohan, E Burke; T Collins, R Martin; M Downes, C Moloney, L Conway; E McNamara, E Hanrahan, L Shanahan.

STORY OF THE GAME

LIMERICK Frees For: 17 9/8) Wides: 12 (3/9)

Scores from Play: 0-17

Spread of Scorers: 10

Top Scorer: Tom Morrissey (0-6)

Yellow Cards: Barry Murphy (36), Cathal O’Neill (54) Own Puck-Outs won: 24 from 30 (80%)

Cian Galvin (51) Own Puck-Outs won: 17 from 34 (50%)

REFEREE: Thomas Walsh (Waterford)

“We’ve a good team and we’ve got good players all over the field, it’s just that this year with injuries that the Munster Championship started maybe two or three weeks early for us. Your best players are your best players because they are the best players.

“We’ll just try and learn as much as we can from this. We’ll sit back now and watch the rest of the championship

and see how it goes. Obviously we’ll have loads of regrets but that’s sport." He added, "I don’t think hunger is an issue. We were unlucky with injuries, and that’s just the way it is."

l Peter Duggan in possession for Clare at the weekend Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Clarecastle goalie Cian Broderick Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Subs: C Harvey for

McNamara (54),

O’Malley for

Shanahan (60). Referee: Seamus Mulvihill, Kerry.

l Caoimhe Cahill in action in the Glen Dimplex All Ireland Senior Championship. Clare defeated Wexford by 0-15 to 1-09 at Cusack Park on Saturday afternoon

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Venue:

by Anthony Newman

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

I PLAYED in a golf tournament last Saturday at Trump Doonbeg in over 50+ km/ph winds and heavy rain and knowing how to keep was ball flight down was invaluable.

I noticed not many golfers around me were able to keep their ball flight down, which lead to the wind direction deciding where the ball would end up going. The following are some key tips to help you to keep your ball flight down on those stormy days.

1 Use a lower lofted club

This is a bit obvious however to put it into context I had 151 yards to the pin on the 17th hole which on a calm day would be a solid 9 iron. However last Saturday this shot was straight into the wind and I hit a very well hit

low 5 iron almost like a stinger flight, which turned out to be exactly the right club since my ball finished pin high and about 20ft from the pin.

My ball flew straight at the pin low but as it was coming down the wind blew it only slightly right due to my extremely low-ball flight. So, it's not just a case of hitting one or two clubs extra, sometimes don't be afraid to go up four clubs and hit a punch shot at the pin with a slightly shorter follow through.

2 Play ball back in stance

This might sound obvious but it is essential if you are to achieve a lower ball flight you should play the ball back further in your stance. I would estimate into a strong wind I might move my ball 3-4 inches further back than my normal ball position.

3 Finish your follow through early

This is my favourite drill to

achieve a lower ball flight.

Think of Tommy Fleetwood's golf swing when you attempt this technique. The earlier you finish your follow through the lower you can hit the ball. For instance, if I want to hit a Tiger low stinger, the feeling I get is I am trying to swing hard down on the ball with speed but I want to almost stop my follow through swing at the golf ball. It's obviously not possible to achieve stopping the club at impact but the attempt to do so helps you stop the follow through swing a lot earlier which will help to reduce the height of the golf shot you are playing.

4 Grip down slightly

Although the majority of the reason the ball will fly lower are point 1-3, gripping down will also benefit in hitting it lower and reduce your speed and the arc of your swing which both contribute to a lower flight.

5 Swing smooth

One of the main contributions to launch is speed from the clubhead. By reducing the speed of the clubhead then the ball physically can't launch as high. Also remember you should have chosen 3-4 clubs extra so you do not have to swing as hard.

6 Reduce wrist hinge

As you can see in the image (right) this golfer has less of a wrist hinge. A normal wrist hinge is about 90° which is the angle from the forearm to the golf club. By hinging your hands less then you simply can't use your hands as much in the golf swing which will achieve a lower ball flight. This is also a great drill to use to help you to fly your wedges lower.

To give you an idea of shots I played last Saturday in particular the best ones here are the irons I hit instead of the ones I would

Michael Bolton wins singles in Kilrush

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Michael Bolton (34) with 40 points was the winner of the mens open singles at the weekend.

He won by two from Brendan Carrig (27) with Michael Meehan (10) a further two points back in third place. Tom Browne won the gross with 33 points while the category winners were Declan O' Donovan (7) with 35 points, Patrick Coleman (13) with 34 points and Mark Cottam (17) 36 points. The nines were won by Pat Brennan and John Robinson, both returning 19 points.

The winner in the ladies competition was Edel Crowley (21) with 66 net while the gross was won by Fiona Kinsella (10) with 83.

The category winners were Mary Bolton (18) with 68, Mary G. Nolan (22) with 71 and Peggy Mulqueen (27) with 68 net.

The nines were won by Mary Lyons (19) with 31.5 and Anna Moody (19) with 33/5.

EAST CLARE GC

The ladies competition last week, a Munster cup qualifier, was an 18 hole stroke event and the overall winner was Ann Harte (35) with a nett 67.

The category winners were Rachel Whelan (17) with a nett 71 and Margaret MacNamara (28) with a nett 69.

The winners of the ladies Wednesday competition were Mary Hogan, Siobhan Mulcahy and Connie McKenna from Ursula Hogan, Mary Collins and Pauline

Nugent with third spot filled by Brid Hayes, Hannah, Guinnane and Mary Dinan.

Ronan Molloy (4) with 43 points won the men’s 19 hole stableford competition. He had one to spare over Redmond Walsh Senior with third spot filled by Alan O’Neill (20) who also had 41 points. The gross was won by Brendan Magill (7) with 79.

The fourball betterball winners were Teddy O'Hanlon and John Duffy while the birdie winner was Alan O’Neill.

The Friday scramble was won by Breda O' Loghlin, Ben Rittweger and John Nihill from Sean Jones, Willie Roche and Brian Torpey with third spot filled by Mary Jo Minogue, Terry Coughlan and Ailbe McDonnell.

WOODSTOCK

Last week’s open singles was won by Declan Browne (33) with 43 points while Alan Markham (4) won the gross with 33. The category winners were Darragh Murphy (7) with 36 points, Paudie O'Connell (17) with 41 points and Rory O'Brien (26) with 42 points.

The Ozone Health and Fitness May medal was the competition at the weekend when the winner was Paul Coote (15) with 63. John Mulcahy (7) won the gross with 76.

Category 1 (+ to 10) was won by Barry McNicholl (9) with 68 from Ronan Horgan (10) with 73

Category 2 (11 to 18) was won by John Dempsey (18) with 65, a stroke ahead of Pat Keane (14).

Category 3 (19+) was

l Shannon Golf Club held their Play in Pink on May 13th in the beautiful sunshine . Led by Lady Captain Sandra Ferguson,they raised over €6,300 for Breast Cancer Research. Pictured (l-r) are Lee Coughlan, Jason Gibson, Lady Captain Sandra Ferguson, Brian Gilligan, Paul Yorke & Justin Nevin Photo by Joe Buckley

won by Rory O'Brien (25) with 69.

The winner of the 16+ singles stableford competition was Mike Martin Hogan (20) with 40 points.

Winners in the 2s competition were Ronan Horgan (4th), Adrian Kearney (6th) and Alan Pyne(4th).

Despite trailing 2/3 after the first leg, the club’s J.B Carr team have progressed to the next round thanks to a win on the 19th hole over Shannon in the return leg on Monday evening in Shannon. The ladies May medal saw Chaye Kelly (9) with 80 nett win category A while Siobhán Maher (37) won category B with 63.

DROMOLAND

Niall Dunne with 66 won the men’s 18 hole stroke competition at Dromoland. He was one ahead of Evan O’Mara with Shane Collins a further stroke back in third followed by Diarmuid

O’Connor with 70. Brian Shally won the gross with 70. The winner of the 9 hole competition was Paul O’Brien with 22 points from Tom O’Brien and Patrick McCoy, both with 21. The ladies player of the year competition was won by Cora O’Toole with 37 points, two ahead of Niamh McDermott with Mary O’Donnell, also with 35 points, in third. Leslie O’Flynn won the gross with 24 points. Mairead Toomey won the 9 hole competition with 21 points from Sinead Burke Keogh with 19.

GORT

Andy Murphy (20) was the winner of the Friday open singles with 38 points. Mark Deegan (2) won the gross with 31. Sunday’s 18 hole singles stableford competition, sponsored by John McGrath Carpets, was won by Liam Hanrahan (18) with 38.

have played on a calm day.

Into the wind shots :

113 yards - Normally a SWI hit 8 iron

151 Yards - Normally 9 ironI hit a 5 iron

218 Yards - Normally 4 ironI hit 4 wood

84 yards - Lob wedge - I hit 9 iron low pitch

Downwind :

208 yards - Usually 5 iron - I hit 8 iron smooth

318 yards - Usually DriverI

So, you can see playing in the wind is about choosing the right club as well as the right technique. You also have to remember on a firm links course where the ground is so hard, for a downwind shot you also need to allow for the bounce forward you will get, so you might have to play the shot to a spot on the fairway about 15-20 yards just short of the green front in order to stop your ball on the green. If your ball flies directly on to the firm greens on a links course it will generally bounce hard over the back of the green. So, you also need to look at the terrain and play this shot wisely if you are to keep your ball on the green surface.

Tiermana Hunter in control

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

THE Final of the Sean Scully Memorial A5 525 Yards Stake with a winners prize of €2,000 sponsored by the Scully family which commemorates the late Sean Scully was the highlight in Galway last week. All six were away on terms with Hanover Luna the first to break rank ahead of Petes Noah on her outside. As the opening bend loomed though, the Colm Fitzgerald of Kilrush-trained Tiermana Hunter powered through on the pair's inner to take control. Tracking well into the back the Supping Away Syndicate-owned leader increased his advantage to two lengths over Hanover Luna racing towards halfway and Tiermana Hunter (Ballyhimikin Jet-Tiermana Jetty) was always in command as he scored by a length from Hanover Luna in 29.41.

Hollywell Mave was away smartly in the A4 graded fourth contest but on the run towards the opening bend the red jacketed Rylane Master took command along the inner and rounding the opening bend the Donie Duggan of Tulla-owned and trained son of Burgess Bucks & Notimetotalk led Bumblebee Milan by over two lengths. Rylane Master stayed on powerfully to defeat Bumblebee Milan by five lengths in 29.42.

In the concluding S2 graded sprint contest Acambo was away well towards the outer but it was Burnpark Jaytee that showed the best pace towards the opening bend. The Mrs Maria Browne of Cree-owned Burnpark Jaytee (Jaytee Jet-Seekers Vision) remained in control to defeat Ballyea Jet by a length and a half in 19.27. Saturday night's Galway card has the A3 graded third contest over 525 yards as its top graded contest and as the traps rose Lissatouk Dave was just about best away along the inner and he led

from Rinnwood Leo and Brickhill Moana. Lissatouk Dave increased to over four lengths racing down the back as Brickhill Moana and Rinnwood Leo gave chase. Exiting the back straight the front trio began to tighten up and swinging for home the Clare natives John Collins and Albert Long-owned Briackhill Moana (Ballymac Bolger-Twentylittletoes) edged to the front before kicking clear to score by four lengths in 29.24.

The opening contest was an S7 graded sprint and from traps Blaze Bay was best away. The Tony Brigdale of Ennis-owned Blaze Bay (Slippery Robert-Sports Olivia) stayed on well to score by 3.5 lengths in 19.69.

Having missed the kick slightly on his two outings to date the Martin Cronin & Robbie Markham of Ennis-owned Cragbrien Fire made no mistake third time of asking as the son of Ballymac Cashout & Fire Height Mai scored by six and a half lengths from the staying on Rosshill Point in 29.99.

In Limerick on Thursday last there was a quickfire double for Donie Duggan, when Amys Jack and Astro Podge took races 2 and 3 respectively. Owned by Shannon's Peter Russell and a son of Skywalker Rafa and Notimetotalk, Amys Jack recorded his 18th success in 29.20 and Astro Podge, owned by the Madden-Pepper Syndicate duly obliged in 29.75 for career win number 12.

There was also a double for the Snuggie Kennels of Myles Cummins and Breda Casey from Newmarket with Snuggie Benny and Snuggie Jasper. Benny a son of Ballymac Cashout and Slaneyside Goldi, notched career win 8 in 29.09 and Jasper approaching his fifth birthday (Paddys Magic and Miles Girl) stopped the clock in 29.40 for a 22nd success. In an A5 contest, Redbud was victorious for Tulla's Michael McNamara in 29.45.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

O’Connor Late of Connelly Villas. In loving memory of our parents Jack & Mary also our brothers Eammon, Paddy, Louis, John & Willie. Our sisters Rose, Dolores, Mary & Stephine. Always in our thoughts. Remembered with love by their family & friends Rest in Peace

Foley, Sheelagh Killaloe

HENNESSY, Rosemary (Rose) Clonlara

LIPFERT, Jochen Cratloe

McGrath (née O’Connor), Teresa Ennis

Dillane (née O’Flanagan), Gabrielle (Gay) Miltown Malbay

Recent Deaths

Finnerty, Sean Ennis

O’Brien (née Vaughan), Mary Lahinch

Collins, Michael D. Ennis

Finucane, John Labasheeda

Kinneen, Anthony (Tony) Ennis

Tierney, Martin Ennis

Clarke (née Purcell), Marjorie O’Briensbridge

KELDON (née O’Neill), Ita

Tuamgraney

Slattery, William (Willie) Quin

Slattery, William (Willie) Clarecastle

McCarthy (née O’Dea), Mary Tulla

WINDERS

. Domestic & Commercial

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

. Thorough and reliable service guaranteed.

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

Dillane (née O’Flanagan), Gabrielle (Gay) Mullagh

Moloney, Edward (Ned) Broadford

Stillwagon (née McNamara), Mary Cree

Wender Painter & Decorator. Need to paint your house or a commercial Property? Call 0894159009

The Clare Echo Quiz

1. Which town in Clare is known for its annual matchmaking festival?

Lisdoonvarna

Doolin

Ballyvaughan

2. What is the highest point in County Clare?

Moylussa

Benbulben

Keeper Hill

3. Which town in Clare is known for its annual matchmaking festival?

Lisdoonvarna

Doolin

Ballyvaughan

4. The Burren is primarily made up of which rock?

Limestone

Granite

Basalt

5. What is the name of the highest sea cliffs in County Clare, located near Kilkee?

Cliffs of Dooneen

Cliffs of Moher

Loop Head Cliffs

6. What is the name of the ancient megalithic tomb located in The Burren?

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Carrowkeel Tomb

Creevagh Wedge Tomb

7. What is the largest lake in County Clare?

Lough Graney

Lough Derg

Lough Atedaun

8. Which Clare town is situated at the point where the River Fergus meets the Shannon Estuary?

Killaloe

Ennistymon

Clarecastle

9. Which island off the coast of Clare is famous for its monastic ruins?

Inis Mór

Scattery Island Valentia Island

10. Which Clare village offers ferries to the Aran Islands?

Doolin

Rossaveal Kilimer

Doolin

Scattery Island

Killaloe

Lough Derg

Poulnabrone Dolmen

Spot the Difference

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

ANSWERS

Cliffs of Dooneen

Limestone

Lisdoonvarna

Moylussa

Lisdoonvarna

Last weeks Answers

Pupils from Knockaneen School., Co Clare at the ESB SCience

Photo by Eamon Ward

WORD SEARCH

The Clare Echo Crossword

Airman

Apprentice Author Censor

Champion Citizen Companion Court

Dictator Director

Doctor Fellow Friend Hard Kin Lady Lord

Member Owner Partner Seaman

Showman

Town Ward

HOW TO PLAY

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.

Section of a book (7)

Of a pope (5)

Assuaged (7)

Idea (6)

Inflexible (5)

Alike all over (7)

Wood nymph (5)

Deserved (7)

One of the senses (7)

Calmed with