The Clare Echo 30/04/26

Armada Hotel pipeline plan stirs division

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SPANISH POINT and Quilty are split over plans to construct a 4.3km water pipeline.

Clare County Council are due to announce their decision on Tuesday over plans by Armada Hotel Holdings Ltd to build a 4.3km water pipeline from Spanish Point to Quilty along with primary and secondary wastewater pumping stations located at e Armada Hotel and Armada House.

It is estimated that that the planned development by one of West Clare’s biggest employers will cost in

the region of €1.5m. Support for the development is very strong within Spanish Point while there has been some backlash in Quilty with the pipeline to connect to the Kilmurry Ibrickane wastewater treatment plant.

Even elected members of the West Clare Municipal District are divided on the plans, a signed submission in support was penned by ve of the nine councillors while Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) has requested the Council to seek further information or “impose stringent conditions”

Mike Todd & Beverley Todd, alongside Ann Golden & Margaret Golden are watched closely by their pooches as they enjoy a break in the sun during the 2026 Clare Garden Festival at the Showground in Ennis last Sunday afternoon

Photo by Tom Micks

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Sherry

Fitz McMahon prepare

for Darkness Into Light

Clare people are being urged to register for Darkness into light which is being held on Saturday May 9. Once registered, T Shirts can be collected from Sherry FitzGerald McMahon in Ennis. Darkness into Light is in support of Pieta House, a suicide and self-harm prevention charity. Pictured are Danielle O’Connor, Connie Cabey, Christina Madden, Diarmuid McMahon, Managing Director Sherry Fitzgerald McMahon, Jason Pyne and Ann Daly all set for Darkness into Light on 9th May.

56k passengers for Shannon Airport over May Bank Holiday

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

SHANNON AIRPORT will have 56,000 passengers for the May Bank Holiday week end which is a nine percent jump on last year.

Growing demand has been experienced at Shannon Airport with forty routes on of fer across Europe, the UK and the US.

Sunspots Malaga, Alicante, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura remain among the most popular destinations while activity has been boosted with the launch of city new city break routes this year to Rome, Madrid, and Frankfurt.

Airport Director at Shannon Airport, Ni all Kearns stated, “We’ve had a really strong start to the year, with solid increases in pas senger numbers across the February, St Pat rick’s Day and Easter bank holiday periods, so it’s great to see that continue into May and the beginning of the summer season.

We genuinely believe the holiday experi ence should begin at the airport, and our teams are excited to look after passengers and help make their journey as enjoyable as possible.

“With 1,000 additional car parking spac es, a handy app putting flight information at your fingertips, a strong range of acces sibility supports and a friendly welcome for everyone, we’re focused on keeping things as hassle‑free as possible from the moment people arrive,” he added.

As well as departing passengers from across Ireland, the airport will also welcome inbound visitors from Europe, the UK, and the US over the May bank holiday period. Many of these visitors will enjoy a Wild At lantic Way journey, spending time locally and enjoying the area’s attractions, hospital ity, and tourism experiences, providing an economic boost for businesses right along the route.

Clare Garden Festival pics p23

Photo by Eamon Ward

Joanie Madden brings May Day festival to Miltown Malbay

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MILTOWN MALBAY hosts the inaugural Joanie Madden May Day Festival this Bank Holiday weekend.

Regarded as one of Ireland’s most iconic musical towns, Miltown Malbay tunes up this weekend for Joanie Madden’s May Day Festival from May 1st to 4th.

At the heart of the festival is the world-renowned ensemble Cherish the Ladies, led by Joanie, whose global influence and four-decade career have helped shape the landscape of Irish traditional music. They will be joined by the celebrated singers of The Voices of Ireland, Don Stiffe, Ger O’Donnell, and Trevor Sexton alongside a stellar gathering of musicians, singers, and dancers from across Ireland and beyond.

The festival will feature an immersive programme of concerts, céilís, set dancing, workshops, song circles, and sessions, transforming Miltown Malbay into a living stage where music flows through every street, pub, and venue. From intimate ballad sessions to high-energy performances, there will be something for everyone.

Highlights include a headline concert by Cherish the Ladies at the Community Centre, followed by set dancing, as well as a céilí with the acclaimed Cortina Céilí Band. The weekend will also showcase celebrated traditional artists including Eileen O’Brien, Jackie Daly, Donal Murphy, Niall Murphy, Keelan

McGrath, John Paul Reynolds, Josephine Marsh, Mick Kinsella, and many more, alongside a strong focus on emerging local talent from the Browne, Shannon, Neylon, and Griffin families. There will also be unforgettable ballads and social dancing with waltzes and jives led by PJ Murrihy & Seamus Shannon, as well as Patrick O’Sullivan.

Adding to the festival’s broad appeal, a dedicated family programme will feature Your Man’s Puppets, while a wide range of workshops will offer opportunities for all ages to engage directly with the tradition from learning tunes and songs to exploring the art of accompaniment and the uilleann pipes.

Festival founder Joanie told The Clare Echo, “Miltown Malbay is my home away from home and has always been a very special place for music, community, and tradition. This festival is about creating something that feels both rooted and alive where the very best artists come together with the next generation, and where everyone feels welcome”.

Events will be held across various venues including the Community Centre, The Westbridge, Clancy’s, Friels, Hillery’s, Cleary’s, The Forge, The Design Bank, Oidhreacht an Chláir, and more.

Friday evening sees the opening concert take place in the Community Centre at 7pm with the farewell session planned for 3pm on Monday.

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As a sincere token of appreciation for your loyalty, Finbar and Eileen are opening their doors for a massive 4-Day Stock Disposal Sale from Friday, 1st May, until Monday, 4th May.

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l Owners Finbar and Eileen Keaveney

l At an Association of Irish Local Govt / GAA conference in Clonmel last week were Ennis Cllr. Pat Daly (FF), Jarlath Burns, Uachtarain Cumann Luthchleas Gael and Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy (FG)

Save Kilkee Cliff Walk campaign to go before High Court with reports of Harris family donations

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

OVER €77,000 has been raised to fund the legal challenge against a proposed wastewater treatment plant in Kilkee.

Among the most recent donations on the Save Kilkee Cliff Walk GoFund Me is €20,000 from the Harris family this week to strengthen the efforts to hold a judicial review in The High Court.

These donations have been listed as €5,000 from the ‘Richard Harris Estate’, €5,000 from Jared and Allegra Harris, €4,000 from Jamie, Bree, Cleo and Lily Harris, €3,000 from Damian, Ella and Marlowe Harris with another €3,000 from ‘the Harris family’.

Key personnel involved in the legal challenge when contacted by The Clare Echo on Wednesday afternoon were unable to verify exactly that the funds had been donated from the estate of the late actor or his family but pointed out that their names were listed beside the donation.

GoFundMe do not use a verification tool when accepting donations from members of the public.

At the beginning of April, organisers of the Save Kilkee Walk GoFundMe had said €50,000 was needed to contest in the High Court but the group currently has a target of €90,000.

l Kilkee residents are opposed to the wastewater treatment plant which would be located in close proximity to the Cliff Walk; (inset) the late Richard Harris, whose family are reported to be supporting the campaign

Momentum is building behind the Save Kilkee Walk campaign and it is expected the case will be before the High Court on June 15 or 17.

Uisce Éireann lodged plans in January 2024 for the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant and foul pumping station in Fooghnagh, Kilkee. Over 80 objections were lodged against the proposed scheme for Dunlicky Road with locals angry over the proposed location and that Uisce Éireann was only proposing primary treatment of wastewater. Untreated wastewater from Kilkee is currently being discharged into the sea at Intrinsic Bay and the proposal aims to rectify this.

Clare County Council comprehensively rejected the plans in

October 2024 and ruled that the scheme would have adverse impacts on the visual amenities of the area, the character of the receiving landscape, and the views available from the adjacent “Scenic Route” and recreational routes which are valuable tourism assets for Kilkee. The Council also refused planning permission after concluding that it has not been adequately demonstrated that the proposed development would be adequate to appropriately manage the effluent loading from Kilkee.

Adverse impacts on the residential amenities for a nearby existing dwelling due to overbearance and general disturbance were also cited by the Council in the decision. The planning authority also refused

planning permission after stating that it could not be satisfied that the proposed development, either individually or in-combination with other plans or projects, would not be likely to have adverse effects on the Kilkee Reefs Special area of Conservation (SAC).

Last June, An Coimisún Pleanála overturned the Council’s decision and granted the green light for Uisce Éireann’s plans. In its grant of permission, the planning authority dismissed the recommendation of its own inspector to refuse planning permission. Philip Davis concluded that the scheme will have a substantially positive impact on water quality at Kilkee. However, Mr Davis recommended a refusal as the proposal by way of its location at a point highly visible from the Dunlicky Road would have an adverse effect on the visual amenities of the area, the character of the receiving landscape, and the views from the designated scenic route. However, the appeals board stated that it did not share the view of its Inspector given that the extensive nature of the site and scale of the works would give rise to an adverse effect on the visual amenities of the area, the character of the receiving landscape, or the views from the designated scenic route at Dunlicky Road. The appeals board stated that it was satisfied that the

development would not seriously injure the visual or residential amenities of the area or negatively impact on the landscape character or the tourism resource of the Kilkee. Clashes of viewpoints have been commonplace between Uisce Éireann and Kilkee locals over the past two years.

In a statement this week, Uisce Éireann said it has become aware of the GoFundMe page and that it “contains a significant level of misinformation, inaccuracies and is factually incorrect”. They said the Kilkee Cliff Walk will not be closed during the construction of the plant.

Details on outfall location and the dimensions of the site boundary to the Dunlicky Road were also incorrect, Uisce Éireann argued. “The virtual image of the proposed wastewater treatment plant, which appears on the GoFundMe Page, is inaccurate. Additionally, the scale of the image relative to the site in Kilkee is approximately ten times larger than the scale of the underlying aerial image, and is an entirely inaccurate representation of the scale of the WWTP.

The image appearing on the GoFundMe Page excludes fencing and landscaping which is proposed by Uisce Éireann as part of the planning application for the WWTP”.

Armada Hotel’s plans for water pipeline splits opinion in Spanish Point & Quilty

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A DECISION is to be made next week on plans by The Armada Hotel to build a 4.3km water pipeline stretching from Spanish Point to Quilty. It will cost an estimated €1.5m.

Spanish Point and Miltown Malbay have experienced their share of water issues in recent years with fresh plans from the Burke family, owners of the Armada Hotel before Clare County Council offering a potential solution.

Such water issues include the removal of the Blue Flag at Spanish Point last summer and the prosecution of Uisce Éireann by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for breaches of its wastewater discharge licence at Miltown Malbay. The Miltown plant discharges into the Annagh River which flows into the sea at Spanish Point.

At peak times of the season, 170 people are employed at The Armada Hotel.

In March, Armada Hotel Holdings Limited lodged plans for the development of a primary wastewater pumping station at Armada House, a secondary wastewater pumping station at the Armada Hotel and a rising main wastewater pipe stretching 4.3km in length located within

l Stunning views from the Armada over Spanish Point

the L6224, the R482 and N67 in the townlands of Leagard South, Dough, Annagh, Caherrush, Emlagh and Quilty West. The development will consist of the decomissioning and removal of the existing wastewater treatment units.

Clare Co Council are due to issue a decision on the application by Tuesday. Businesses and residents in Spanish Point have made submissions in favour of the development while submissions from some Quilty residents and the Quilty Tidy Towns group have urged the Council to refuse the development.

Currently Spanish Point is not served by a wastewater plant. The applicant has argued that in the absence of one, the connection from

the Armada Complex to the Kilmurry Ibrickane wastewater treatment plant “offers a longterm and strategically appropriate approach to wastewater management in such a sensitive environmental context”.

For the construction of the pipeline, MKO detailed that the works along the public road corridor will be undertaken in a staged manner and that a stop-andgo traffic management system will provide sufficient control throughout the construction period rather than any road closures.

Engineering consultancy firm TOBIN, whose report is included with the application, also submitted a query to Uisce Éireann to confirm the feasibiliy of providing a new connection to the Kilmurry Ibrickane wastewater treatment plan for the treatment of wastewater generated at the Armada complex. Uisce Éireann confirmed there is capacity and that a connection was feasible.

Within Quilty, there is opposition to the plans. Those to object include Quilty Tidy Towns, David Galvin, Mairead Galvin, Keith Galvin, Bernadette Mullins, Tommy

Galvin, Eileen O’Connor, John O’Connor, Kieran Collins, Lorna Pender, Mackie O’Connor, Martha Shanahan and Mary O’Connor. Residents in the parish of Kilmurry Ibrickane campaigned for four decades for the installation of a wastewater plant.

Among those issuing submissions in support of the Conor Tubridy, Mary Mulqueen, Mary Cleary Kyne, Pat Kyne, Michael Hillery, Nancy Creech, Spanish Point Community Group, Tom Barrett and Michael Duffy. MEP Michael McNamara (IND) has also supported the proposal.

Quilty based Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) requested the Council to seek further information on the plans “and if planning permission is granted impose stringent conditions particularly in relation to wastewater infrastructure, long-term capacity planning and Uisce Éireann commitments”. There are concerns regarding “capacity constraints” in Kilmurry Ibrickane, he said. “We want freedom to grow in Quilty, Mullagh and Kilmurry Ibrickane into the future”.

His colleagues in the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG), Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG), Cllr Rita McInerney

(FF) and Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) have all expressed their support for the development. Raising the matter before a sitting of the West Clare MD, Cllr Slattery commended John Burke for lodging the plans as an example of developer led infrastructure. “It is a brave step by an individual, it is a costly one and it needs to be recognised”.

Quilty Tidy Towns in their objection stated, “The Armada complex has been successful but it is not the only tourism provider in this area. There are several businesses in the Quilty and Seafield areas which provide tourist facilities and accommodation and they may also seek to expand their businesses”.

Owners of Littleton Lodge in Spanish Point, Conor Tubridy and Mary Mulqueen said exporting wastewater to the Kilmurry Ibrickane plant “makes absolute common sense as that plant has more than adequate spare capacity and the site has space for future expansion, if required. Moreoever the proposal is at zero cost to the government for communities in Spanish Point and Quilty”.

Chartered civil engineer, Michael Duffy said the application “is a technically excellent solution to an in-

comprehensible deficit in municipal infrastructure in Spanish Point. It will be good for the environment and water quality in the wider area. On that basis I am happy to support this application”.

“Why let Armada Holdings join our sewer system when houses in our area are not on the system,” John O’Connor questioned in his submission. Keith Galvin claimed there had been “a lack of effort for proper community consultation” and cautioned that it could negatively impact residential housing estate and one-off housing developments in Quilty and Mullagh, derelict sites coming back into use, existing houses not connected to the scheme and other business developments.

Spanish Point Community Group labelled the pumping stations and pipeline as “a critical and urgent piece of economic and social infrastructure”.

Tom Barrett on behalf of the North Clare Communities Group (NCCG) which represents 20 not for profit community groups in the Ennistymon LEA also issued their support and stressed the “continued strength of tourism” in West and North Clare.

Timber spire restored to Ruan church as following lightning strike

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

ST MARY’s Church in Ruan had its timber spire restored this week as part of a major milestone in its refurbishment.

Sixteen months on from the lightning strike at St Mary’s Church in Ruan which saw the timber spire go on fire and crash to the ground, it has now finally been restored.

Work continues on the refurbishment of the church which is located in the heart of the village.

Locals said at the time of the December 2024 lightning strike that “the spire saved the village really because it is the highest part of the village, lightning always hits the highest part so if it didn’t it would have hit somewhere else”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo on Wednesday morning, Fr Pat O’Neill who is assistant priest in the parishes of Ruan, Dysart, Crusheen, Corofin and Tubber welcomed the progress with the refurbishment. “Thanks be to God we have the timber spire up now, everybody is delighted to see it happening. People are over the moon that things are happening and beginning to take shape”.

A deadline of the end of May has been set for engineers and construction personnel for the completion of the project. A wedding is to be held at St Mary’s Church at the end of next month with Fr O’Neill informing personnel working on the refurbishment that all scaffolding needs to be removed and the project completed by then. Fr O’Neill admitted that

the wait to complete the refurbishment has “been frustrating” and that the project has been delayed by “a huge amount of bureaucracy”.

Conservation architects and heritage experts are understood to have been among the factors for the slow pace of work due to the historical nature of the church which was officially opened in 1912, along with the insurance hur-

dles.

“It is coming up a year and half since it went on fire and it is only now that we got the timber work of the spire in place,” Fr O’Neill noted. “It is easy to know why the Children’s Hospital is taking so long to get built with so much bureaucracy”.

As they’ve played the waiting game, mass and devotion of the people of Ruan to their faith hasn’t been interrupted. “There was a never a day when we didn’t get to use the church,” Fr O’Neill stated.

Last June, The Clare Echo reported on the discovery of a 104 year old piece of wainscoting within the church. Signed by Kilrush carpenters Simon Cusack and James Morrissey in 1911, the piece of timber was previously found by Ruan’s John Kirwan when the church was wired for the first time in 1969.

Another tradesman was added to the tale when Connolly native Shane Meehan, an electrician based out of Ennis rediscovered the historic piece of wainscoting which has since been removed from the church for safekeeping and was wrapped in what else but a copy of The Clare Echo

IN A significant escalation in its efforts to combat dereliction and increase housing supply in towns, villages and rural communities across the county, Clare County Council has begun the compulsory acquisition of 20 derelict properties.

This move signals an intensification in the Council’s approach to tackling long term derelict sites. It also forms part of a broader strategy aimed at accelerating housing delivery, which includes the creation of a specialised Housing Activation Unit within the Council and the proposed amendment of the county development plan to designate more land for residential development.

Of the 20 properties identified for compulsory acquisition, 15 were previously residential in nature, while five were categorised as commercial.

The CPO notices have been served under the statutory powers of the Derelict Sites Act 1990, which empowers the Council to take proactive measures to prevent land from becoming or remaining a derelict site.

Clare County Council Director of Service for Housing Alan Farrell said “The use of the CPO process represents a proportionate intervention where necessary. It enables Clare County Council to act in the public interest to address dereliction and bring housing back into use.”

Clare County Council, Senior Executive Officer, Carmel Greene, added, “The message to owners of derelict properties is clear: engagement and action are essential. The Council offers a range of targeted and practical refurbishment supports, and owners of vacant or derelict properties can avail of these supports. We therefore encourage owners of derelict properties to engage with our staff as soon as possible to identify the best resolution for bringing these homes back into use.”

The Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant has been very successful in Clare to date, with over €30 million in grant aid approved, €15 million of which has been paid out, and over 250 homes refurbished. The Grant has recently been extended to include over the shop, commercial properties and expert advice grant.

l St Mary’s Church in Ruan Photo by Rachel Lyons Media

Sixmilebridge’s Méabh is crowned new Rose of Clare

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

SIXMILEBRIDGE’s Méabh

Holland is the new Rose of Clare.

Twenty two year old Méabh was selected as the Clare Rose at Sunday’s selection competition which took place at The Rhine Hotel in Newmarket-on-Fergus.

A primary school teacher, Méabh has a love for her native language and spent her summers teaching Gaeilge in Connemara. She teaches music with Music Generation Clare and The Irish Concertina Orchestra. She was sponsosred by SSTA Training and Consultancy.

She said, “I love to stay active, between the gym, Hyrox, and running, it’s all go. I love to travel on the school holidays but there’s no better place than County Clare. I love being involved in my community and act as PRO for my local athletics club and community games branch. I have a bubbly, enthusiastic personality and love new experiences”.

This Saturday, Méabh will be having a homecoming in Gleeson’s Bar, Sixmilebridge to celebrate her success from 19:30.

Fourteen Roses were in the

running to succeed Aisling O’Connor as the Clare Rose.

The Feakle primary school teacher who made it to the Dome in Tralee in August 2023 described her time as Clare Rose as “an unforgettable experience”. She said, “I feel so lucky to have met the most incredible people along the way” and thanked her family, parish and community for their support”.

Aisling added, “I’m also so grateful to everyone involved in

the journey who supported and guided me throughout, your kindness and encouragement will always stay with me. I am blessed to have had the best people in my corner. This chapter has given me friendships, memories and confidence I’ll carry with me long after the sash is put away”.

Competing alongside Méabh to become the Clare Rose were Sixmilebridge student Aoibheann Sweeney, Danielle O’Sulli-

van who is studying for a PhD in English literature and hails from Ennis, Kilkishen primary school teacher Eilís Whitney, trainee pharmacy technician Laura Fennell from Kilbaha, Louise Eccles Cusack of Ennis who will begin a songwriting masters in the Irish World Academy in September when she finishes her degree in English and History from UL and nineteen year old Alice Sheedy from Limerick who claims Clare patronage.

Also taking to the stage were Clooney/Quin’s Megan Hayes who works in a solicitor’s office while also running her parttime beauty business; psychiatric nursing student Nell Walsh from Rehy in Cross; Newmarket-on-Fergus’ Niamh Enright who works in the financial sector; Rachel Hogan of Ennistymon who is a wood technology and graphics teacher while she also climbed Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of fourteen; Shannon native Sadie O’Donnell who works for Quinn Property Management; anaesthetic doctor at UHL Siobhán O’Connell from Broadford and aspiring primary school teacher Hannah Moloney from Killanena.

Emma vies for Miss Ireland Teen

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MEELICK teenager

Emma Downey is vying to become Miss Ireland Teen 2026.

Emma is one of 20 contestants taking part in the teenage edition of Miss Ireland with the final to be held this May Bank Holiday Monday. It is the fourth year of the competition.

A student in Thomond Community College and a past pupil of Corpus Christi primary school in Moyross, Emma is flying the Clare flag this weekend. Horse-riding and singing are among her hobbies while Emma has previously modelled for charity. She is part of the Moyross Youth Academy where she recently passed her stage two British Horse Society (BHS) exams and is currently preparing for stage three. She is also a recipient of the engage in education programme.

Open to females aged thirteen to seventeen, Miss Ireland Teen brings the same aspects of Miss Ireland with contestants undertaking a training tuition programme covering aspects such as social media training, social awareness, community catwalk training, photoshoots and interview skills. Across several weeks, finalists take part in online and in-person programmes with prizes in categories such as sports, talent, eco-fashion, top model and teen for change which focuses on community and charity involvement.

On Monday at The Red Cow Inn in Dublin, two overall winners will be announced as Miss Ireland Teen Junior and Miss Ireland Teen Senior. There are also two public voted winners which can be selected via the MI Org app which is available on all download platforms with free daily votes for users, Emma is number nine on the app.

l Méabh celebrates being crowned the Rose of Clare

Photo by John O’Neill

Craggaunowen under siege this Bank Holiday

CRAGGAUNOWEN will come alive with the sights and sounds of the Viking Age this May Bank Holiday Weekend, Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, as Norse warriors descend on the historic site, transforming it into a bustling Viking village.

At the heart of the ‘Viking Invasion of Craggaunowen’ will be thrilling battle reenactments on the Castle Green, taking place twice daily at midday and 4pm. Younger visitors can step into the action with interactive shield drills in which they will learn the tactics behind the legendary Viking Shield Wall.

Away from the battlefield, visitors will be able to discover what life was like in the Viking Village by stepping back in time to explore the daily lives of the pagan warriors. Skilled craftspeople will demonstrate traditional techniques such as leatherworking, pottery, weapon-making, trading, hunting, fishing, and fibre crafts, offering a fascinating window into the past.

Live demonstrations of meals being cooked over open fires, using only authentic ingredients available during the Viking Age, will fill the Craggaunowen air with rich aromas.

Visitors can also meet the Moneyer, who will demonstrate how coins were made and how the Vikings introduced them to Ireland. Children will each receive a complimentary replica coin as a memento of their visit. Family friendly entertainment continues with Viking-themed games and a barbeque.

Craggaunowen Castle and Crannóg is managed by Clare County Council. Tickets for the ‘Viking Invasion of Craggaunowen’ are available online at www.craggaunowen.ie.

O'Driscoll appointed CEO of Shannon Airport Group

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

RAY O’DRISCOLL has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Shannon Airport Group.

O’Driscoll has been Interim CEO since September following the resignation of Mary Considine. He takes up the full-time role with immediate effect. He has previously served as Deputy CEO and Chief Operating Officer with the Shannon Airport Group. The Cork native becomes the fourth CEO, following in the footsteps of Neil Pakey, Matthew Thomas and Considine. The post has been filled, four months after the vacancy was advertised and seven months after Considine's exit.

He joined the Shannon Airport Group in 2014 as Managing Director of Shannon Commercial Properties, the Group’s commercial property division.

During his time with the Group, he has overseen the transformation of the organisation’s property portfolio into a significant economic driver for the region and played a central role in advancing aviation development and commercial growth at Shannon Airport.

Before joining the Group, Ray held senior finance roles with Barry Group and Eurologic Systems Ltd, having begun his career with EY in Cork. He is a member of Chartered Accountants Ireland, holds an MBA from the University of Westminster, a Diploma in Strategy from UCD Smurfit Business School,

and is a Chartered Director (CDir) with the Institute of Directors. He serves as a Director of Shannon Chamber.

Ray said he is “honoured to be appointed Chief Executive Officer of The Shannon Airport Group. Having worked within the organisation since 2014, I have witnessed the incredible dedication of our teams and the vital role the Group plays in enhancing regional connectivity, supporting economic development and contributing to Ireland’s aviation and commercial landscape.

“I look forward to continuing this work alongside the Board, our partners and our committed colleagues. Together, we will build on our strategic priorities, strengthen our offering for airport

passengers and customers, further enhance our commercial property activities at the Shannon Airport Business Park, and drive positive growth for the region and the communities we serve.”

Commenting on the appointment, Conal Henry, Chairperson of The Shannon Airport Group, said: “The Board is delighted to confirm the appointment of Ray O’Driscoll as Chief Executive Officer of The Shannon Airport Group. Ray has demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism and commitment throughout his tenure to date, including during his period as Deputy CEO and then Interim CEO.

“As we look ahead to the opportunities and challenges that lie before us, the Board has full confidence in Ray’s ability to guide The Shannon Airport Group into its next chapter of growth, innovation and regional impact.”

Minister for Transport and for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O’Brien (FF) offered his congratulations, crediting Ray with playing a “significant part” in the group’s growth in recent years.

President of Shannon Chamber, Mark Nolan added, “We are confident that under Ray’s leadership, The Shannon Airport Group will continue to achieve significant milestones in the years ahead. We wish Ray and his team every success as they drive the Group to new heights. Shannon Chamber will continue to support The Shannon Airport Group in their endeavours under Ray’s leadership”.

l A reenactment at Craggaunowen Photo by Eamon Ward

l Shannon Airport Group CEO Ray O’Driscoll

Corofin man charged with assault of priest during Cathedral mass

by Gordon Deegan editor@clareecho.ie

A 31 year old Corofin man has appeared in court charged with the assault of a priest during mass in Ennis.

At Ennis District Court, Dylan O’Loughlin has appeared in court charged with the assault causing harm of Fr Joy Micle at the St Peter and St Paul Cathedral, O'Connell Street in Ennis on Monday of this week contrary to Section 3 of the Non Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

Mr O’Loughlin, from Corofin but currently of no fixed abode, is also charged with the criminal damage of €150 eye- glasses belonging to Fr Micle at the Cathedral on Monday, April 20th.

Mr O’Loughlin who turns 32 next month is also charged with using or engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour with intent to provoke a breach of the peace at the Cathedral in Ennis on Monday.

In court, Garda Thomas Murray said that during the alleged assault, Mr O’Loughlin scraped Fr Micle's face and Fr Micle sustained injuries over his right temple and right cheek.

Garda Murray said that during the alleged assault, Fr Micle’s eye glasses fell and broke on the Church floor.

Garda Murray said that “other church goers came to the priest’s assistance”.

Garda Murray said that Mr O’Loughlin was also allegedly verbally abusive towards Fr Micle.

Garda Murray said that the sentence for Section 3 assaults in the Circuit Court on conviction is prison terms up to ten years.

Garda Murray said that there may be further charges brought against Mr O’Loughlin.

Objecting to bail for Mr O’Loughlin, Garda Murray said that he would not be satisfied at all if the accused was granted bail.

Garda Murray said that Gardaí were objecting to bail as Gardaí have a fear that there will be interference with witnesses.

He said that Fr Micle “is a man of faith, a priest and always at the Cathedral and that makes it very easy for Mr O’Loughlin to approach him should he receive bail”.

Solicitor, John Casey for Mr O’Loughlin applied for bail for his client and described Mr O’Loughlin as “a very vulnerable individual” who has good periods.

Mr Casey said that Garda Murray had provided a graphic account of the assault in court.

Mr Casey said that Mr O’Loughlin suffers from paranoia. Mr Casey said, “I can see where the case is going and how it will be dealt with”.

Mr Casey said that previously Mr O’Loughlin worked in Shannon for a number of years and then had an accident unrelated to work and didn’t go back to work.

Judge Harris granted bail to Mr O’Loughlin on condition that he remain out of Ennis and also ordered him to obey a nightly curfew.

Judge Harris told Mr Loughlin “I don’t want you to come to Ennis” apart from court appearances.

Judge Harris also ordered that Mr O’Loughlin is not to have any contact with the alleged injured party or witness in the case and remanded him to bail to appear before Ennis District Court next month.

glór set for an ‘hour of the crazy dizziness’ of life

by Amy Copley news@clareecho.ie

Since opening the doors of her dance studio in 2014, dancer, Catherine Young has prided herself on sharing her socially engaging work.

Her latest contemporary dance show Ciseach – An Embodied Manifesto is no different. The show - bringing six professional dancers and five musicians - will be preformed in glór on Saturday, May 9 at 8pm. The show offers its audience “an hour off the crazy dizziness of life”.

The show Ciseach is about our broken relationship with the land. It tackles “the biggest crisis of our time, which is the environmental crisis.” The show aims to bring not only awareness to the environmental crisis but also to bring joy to their audiences.

“The show is very physical, very visceral. I’d love it to be a balm for the soul in one sense. Its quite ritualistic, the show, so I think theres kind of a lovely energy exchange. So, I hope the audience feel a bit of a transformation and soothing and joy from having watched the show.”

Catherine wants her audiences “to feel joyful, to feel inspired, to feel hopeful” after experiencing the show. She expresses the importance of being joyful in a world that is filled with “doom and gloom and fear”. “Being joyful is an act of rebellion because, you know, the overwhelm, and the doom and gloom and fear, if one is fearful, one can be controlled, but if one is joyful, it’s quite hard to be controlled. So, I think there’s something empowering about finding the joy and is an importance.”

Cisteach has many differ-

ent meanings, it can mean a shambles or a wattled walkway, which is a means to cross a difficult patch of terrain.

Young uses this word to describe the world we live in today. It may be a shambles or it may just be a difficult a difficult piece of terrain that we need to attempt to wade past.

The show first premiered in 2024 and is now taking to stages right across Ireland in its national tour. Catherine Young took inspiration for the show in many different places but stand out inspi-

ration came to her from her time in Palestine and West Africia.

“I had been over and back to Palestine a couple of times and I was really struck by how connected to the land they were, especially in how they spoke about the olive trees, like if it was their children.”

“I go to West Africa a lot to train, and again I had been struck by how connected everybody was to nature and the land, it was really an integral part of their lives”.

To Young, dance is so much more than just movement, its expression and a universal language. The show really puts an emphasis on the dancing and music delivering its manifesto.

“And I think in a world where words will be manipulated and nobody knows what the truth is and you know, false information and fake news and there’s an intelligence and there’s a wisdom and there is truth in the body, which is very hard to manipulate or lie through. So, I think it’s quite powerful because of that.”

100 new social homes in pipeline

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

The latest Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR) has today confirmed that 143 newbuild social homes are now in the delivery pipeline for Clare, marking continued strong momentum in the State’s social housing building programme.

According to the report, 38 homes were under construction across the county as of Q4 2025, with a further 105 units at design or tender stage. The CSR provides a detailed overview of new-build activity across local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies nationwide.

Nationally, 22,949 new-build social homes are in the delivery process with 9,703 were under construction and a further 13,246 units at design or tender stage. The CSR provides a detailed overview of new-build activity across local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies nationwide.

This substantial pipeline underpins the continued delivery of new social homes, following last year’s record output of more than 9,000 newly built social homes, the highest annual figure achieved to date.

Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, James Browne TD today emphasised:

“The continued momentum shown in today’s figures reflects the real and lasting impact that sustained investment in social housing is having both in Clare and across the country.

“Such a robust pipeline provides a solid foundation for maintaining record levels of social housing delivery, ensuring that the momentum achieved to date can be sustained and strengthened in the years ahead.”

“This level of activity is not just about numbers. It is about providing secure, high-quality homes that transform people’s lives. Every new home delivered means long-term stability for a family or individual and I am determined that this progress continues at pace.”

Sunday the 17th of May from 12pm - 4pm

Local teams shine at national Credit Union Schools Quiz final

IT WAS a proud and mem orable day for Kilrush and West Clare as two quiz teams from St Senan's Pri mary School competed at the National Credit Union Schools Quiz Final, held on Sunday, following months of hard work and study.

The journey to the nation al stage began back in Febru ary, when more than 25,000 students from schools across Ireland took part in the first round of the competition. After progressing through local and regional stages, both local teams earned their place among the final ists — a remarkable achieve ment in itself.

At Sunday’s national final, 58 teams competed in each age category, representing the very best from across the country.

Both teams delivered outstanding performances, achieving scores that placed

them jointly among the top ten highest‑scoring teams in their respective age cate gories.

With multiple teams tied on scores at this level, the result highlights just how competitive the final was — and how impressive it was for our local students

Domestic abuse call-outs on rise

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

NEWLY-released Garda figures show that the Clare–Tipperary Garda Division has experienced one of the most alarming increases in domestic abuse callouts in the entire country.

Figures released to Aontú through a Parliamentary Question reveal that Gardaí in the Clare–Tipperary Division responded to 3,533 domestic abuse incidents in the past year, compared with 2,352 the previous year. This represents a staggering rise of approximately 50 per cent. There was a 15% increase from 2024 to 2025.

Aontú representative for Clare, June Dillon, has voiced grave concern at the figures, saying in a statement to The Clare Echo, “These figures are profoundly disturbing. Clare and Tipperary have not merely edged upwards, they have surged. A 50% increase is not a statistical quirk; it is a stark and urgent call for action. It tells us that something is going very wrong in our communities, and we cannot afford to look away.”

While several rural divisions recorded increases, Kerry (+16%), Laois/Offaly (+15%), Wexford/Wicklow (+8%) but in raw numbers of cases nowhere comes close to the scale of the escalation of reports seen here in Clare and Tipperary.

Ms Dillon continued: “These figures show that behind too many closed doors, people, mostly women, are living in fear. It is now the tragic reality that a murder victim in Ireland is more likely to die at the hands of a partner than in any gangland feud. That should chill every one of us.”

She stressed that a full, independent analysis of the Clare/Tipp figures is urgently required.

“We cannot simply chalk this up to increased reporting. The rise is too sharp, too dramatic, and too out of step with the national trend. Victims deserve more than assumptions, they deserve answers.”

Ms Dillon concluded: “These figures must serve as a wake-up call.

“In Clare we are fortunate to have an established domestic support service in Clare Haven Services and a coordinated network of support agencies in CLAN. I urge any person that is worried about their personal situation to reach out and seek help from one of these supports or contact An Gardai.”

Their incredible achieve ment was celebrated by all who attended, with a great sense of pride felt through out the local community.

Speaking after the event, Kilrush Credit Union praised the students for their hard work and deter mination, noting that reach ing — and excelling at — the national final is a moment they will remember for years to come.

“We are immensely proud of both teams. To progress

to finish within the top tier nationally.

The Credit Union Schools Quiz is designed to encour age curiosity, teamwork and learning, and the dedica tion shown by both teams throughout the competition was a credit to their schools, families and teachers.

from a starting point of over 25,000 students nationwide and finish among the high est‑scoring teams in Ireland is an outstanding achieve ment.

They represented their schools and community brilliantly, and the sup port shown for one anoth er throughout the day was wonderful to see.”

The national final marked the culmination of months of preparation, teamwork and learning, and the expe

rience — from travelling to the event to competing on the national stage — will no doubt stay with the students long into the future.

Kilrush Credit Union congratulates both teams, their teachers and families on an exceptional achieve ment and looks forward to continuing its long‑stand ing support of local schools and young people through initiatives such as the Credit Union Schools Quiz.

European Youth week event to showcase options to study abroad

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

OPTIONS to study abroad for Clare students will be outlined at a special showcase for European Youth Week this Friday in the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis.

As well as course options, the event will provide relevant information on the fees and grants as well as hints on the application process.

Whilst there is no official record kept of the number of Irish students studying abroad, the En-

nis-based EUNiCAS estimates it to be around 4,000.

EUNiCAS is an independent application support service

that helps students from Ireland and throughout the EU to secure a place in the third-level programmes of their

choice.

Its founder and head, Guy Flouch, cites costs and points as two main factors in students from Ireland choosing to go abroad.

The Clare Youth Service event, in association with EUNiCAS, takes place this Friday May 1 at the Temple Gate Hotel from 6-8pm. All young people over 16 years are welcome as are parents and guardians. Entry is free.

All Clare Youth Service events are drug and alcohol free.

Calls for safety overhaul in Darragh

URGENT action is required to ensure there are no more fatalities on a stretch of road between Ennis and Kilrush.

Clare TD Cathal Crowe (FF) wants traffic calming measures introduced on the N68 at Darragh, warning that current road conditions are a “matter of life and death”.

Following a surge in local traffic, Deputy Crowe is urging Clare Co Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland to fast-track the installation of raised footpaths on both sides of the road.

“These measures, which could form part of a proposed long-sought-after road safety scheme,

would help to instantly reduce vehicle speeds, improve road realignment, and eliminate dangerous overtaking and undertaking.

“Crucially, the proposed works would provide safe connectivity for residents accessing local amenities, including bus stops, the local shop, and key Ballyea parish sites such as the school, GAA pitch, and community centre.

“Over the years road traffic accidents in the Darragh locality have claimed four lives and we can only expect the litany of collisions and near-misses to continue unless immediate action is taken,” he said.

Crowe recently arranged for a deputation of local residents to meet with Minister Sean Canney in Leinster House to outline the situation.

“Arising from this positive meeting, I can confirm that Clare County Council will submit detailed proposals for a comprehensive road safety scheme. This plan will be directly considered by

the Minister Canney and TII.

“I have pushed for traffic calming measures in Darragh for some time. We need to see this plan fully designed, funded, and implemented as a matter of urgency to ensure that children walking to school, pedestrians, and cyclists can traverse the area without fearing for their lives.”

Proposals afoot to bring in cul-de-sac to Hermitage

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

PARTS of Hermitage are to be turned into a cul-de-sac with a redesigned roadway to provide parking for residents and local businesses.

Officials in Ennis Municipal District are in the process of preparing a Section 38 proposal for Hermitage Green in Ennis. This allows them in the interest of the safety and convenience of road users, provide such traffic calming measures as they consider desirable in respect of public roads in their charge.

It follows a joint proposal from Cllr Antoinette Baker Bashua (FF), Cllr Tommy Guilfoyle (SF) and Cllr Pat Daly (FF) which asked the Council “to examine and progress the conversion of the road on either side of Hermitage Green, adjacent to Our Lady’s Grotto, into a cul de sac, and to redesign the remaining roadway to provide structured, much needed parking for residents and local businesses”.

They said, “This residential, community focused area currently carries unnecessary through traffic, creating avoidable safety risks for pedestrians, families, elderly residents, and visitors. At the same time, there is a persistent shortage of parking, forcing vehicles into unsafe or unsuitable arrangements and

l Hermitage Estate in Ennis will see a restructure which is likely to reduce traffic in the area

placing pressure on residents and nearby businesses”.

By closing the road to through traffic, the trio argued that safety would improve, “a valuable community amenity” would be maintained, congestion and non-local traffic would be reduced and practical parking would be provided for locals. “This is a reasonable, proportionate, and long overdue measure that will directly enhance safety, accessibility, and quality of life in the Hermitage Green area”.

Acting senior executive engineer in the Ennis MD, Paddy Tiernan confirmed that staff had visited the area to examine the proposals outlined. “We agree that the measures proposed would

provide significant benefit to the residents of the Hermitage area. A concept design has already been prepared, and with the assistance of the Elected Members, we would welcome the opportunity to present this design to local residents. Subject to local consensus, it is our intention to progress the project through the Section 38 process in the coming weeks”.

Preparation of a concept design was welcomed by Cllr Baker Bashua. “This is a residential community focus space,” the Hermitage native explained. “The roads either side of the green have been used as through routes which bring unnecessary traffic. The intention behind the notice of motion is straight forward,

by redesigning it as cul de sac we can remove unnecessary through traffic and help businesses who face parking pressures”.

Reducing traffic and bringing in the cul-de-sac “would have a knock-on effect for the whole area,” she said. “The cars coming past Hermitage won’t be there, they’d have to go the long way to get there, I feel very positive, I use it all the time and it nearly hurts if I have to go around another way, it only affects twenty houses either side”.

An increasing amount of young people with children are relocating to Hermitage which also has a lot of gradparents living in the area, Cllr

Guilfoyle highlighted. “The front of the estate should be a place for them to play but that part has been consumed as one of the main roads of the town for people going to Kilmaley, Miltown Malbay and other parts of our county”. He added, “this would allow the area to be a housing estate again and allow householders to have use of the green area and not be used as a through road”.

Moves within the Council to back the proposal was “very positive,” Cllr Daly stated. “The motion is seeking to examine the road on either side of Hermitage Green, the local residents are tired of the extra traffic using the road.

It would provide significant benefit to residents of Hermitage and its environs”.

Mayor of the Ennis MD, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) commented, “I live very near the area and wholly support the motion”. She continued, “You have young families and older residents who take great pride in their homes. The grotto is a super job but from a health and safety point of view this is a great resolution”.

Voicing his support, Cllr Tom O’Callaghan (FF) remarked, “It is very well thought out, I am delighted with the reply, it is a wonderful community in Hermitage, young people want to come back to live there”.

Photo by Páraic McMahon

l Guy Flouch from EUNiCAS with Clare Youth Service staff and young people

l Kevin McNamee, Cathal Crowe TD, Michael Fitzgibbon and Mairead Collins

Shannon Airport launches 100 flight giveaway

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

100 FREE flights from Shannon Airport are up for grabs as part of a new month-long campaign in what is its biggest-ever giveaway.

Marketing itself as the ‘the best place to fly from’, Shannon Airport has launched a huge giveaway where fifty people will each win a pair of flights departing from Shannon.

Passengers are invited to dream big and build their holiday wishlist while trying to win free flights.

As part of the new brand campaign, animated birds and ‘frequent fliers’, Robin and Wren feature to celebrate Shannon Airport’s famously friendly and hassle-free experience. The campaign builds on Shannon Airport’s reputation as Ireland’s Favourite Air-

port, earned through its award-winning customer experience and status as Ireland’s top airport brand for a third consecutive year.

TV host Kathryn Thomas has partnered with Shannon Airport

as a brand ambassador for the campaign. She presented the travel programme, No Frontiers on RTÉ for twelve years until 2010 and in 2005 was named the Travel Extra Irish Travel Writer of the Year.

Running for four weeks, the giveaway includes flights to Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, Faro, Lanzarote, Palma, New York, Boston and Chicago. In week four, all entries will roll into a Grand Prize draw, giv-

ing lucky winners the chance to fly to Nashville, Orlando, Las Vegas and San Francisco. Emily Brown, Brand Manager at Shannon Airport explained that it is the biggest giveaway ever done by the airport. “We wanted to celebrate the brilliant reaction to our new brand ad and our feathered frequent fliers with something genuinely exciting for passengers nationwide. What better way to do that than by launching our biggest ever giveaway of flights?”

To enter visit Shannon Airport’s social media channels, follow the link, enter your name and contact details, select your top three destinations, and you’re in with a chance to win.

Full details at www. shannonairport.ie.

‘Majority of buses are speeding

in Shannon’

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

BUSES in Shannon are repeatedly breaking speed limits, a local councillor has claimed. In a motion before the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) asked for efforts to be made to “reduce the speed limit on the Tullyvarraga Road onward to St Senan’s Rugby Club to 30 km/hr and to put in place flashing speed warning signs”. Cathaoirleach of the Shannon MD, Cllr John Crowe (FG) seconded the proposal.

Acting senior executive engineer in the Shannon MD, Caimin Dillon confirmed that a traffic survey would be carried out “to establish the traffic speed to assist with any traffic calming measures. Public consulation and budget approval will be required”. Speaking at the sitting of the Shannon MD, Cllr Mulcahy claimed, “the majority of buses are breaking the speed limits” in Shannon. “I can hear them before they come,” he remarked of the vehicles turning onto the Tullyvarraga Rd. “The buses are going at a speed, two engineers in the Council were down there at 8am and were terrified with the speed”.

“It is coming down the road from the Gaelscoil which is where they are picking up the speed, how they are doing it is beyond me”.

He was critical of agencies for failing to come before MD meetings. “I don’t know why they don’t come in here, why are we writing to them and them being afraid to come in”. He added, “I heard the possibility of the speed limit being dropped with the current fuel situation” but no local authority official could confirm such a move.

Gaelscoil Donncha Rua opens new sensory room

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

GAELSCOIL Donncha Rua will this week open a new sensory room.

Founded in 1984, Gaelscoil Donncha Rua currently has 76 pupils enrolled at the Shannon primary school.

On Thursday, a new chapter begins in the school with the opening of a sensory room.

Proceeds from this year’s Gerdy McGettigan memorial football tournament have gone towards the fit out of the sensory room.

Gerdy’s mother Eilish a fortnight ago presented the school with a cheque to the value of €1,400 as part of the proceeds from the tournament.

Principal Aisling Ní Áirtnéada expressed her gratitude for the donation which she confirmed had gone to-

Notes

BEALTAINE IN SHANNON LIBRARY

wards the fit out of the sensory room. Within the Gaelscoil, there are six teachers, three

of whom are special education teachers and a parttime SET, the school has five special needs assistants.

has an ASD class and an early intervention pre-school. Earlier this year,

school moved into its new build which cost in excess of €3.5m and it marks the first time that the Gaelscoil has a permanent building, having been in prefabs for close to forty years. The new building has six mainstream classrooms and one for an early intervention preschool and one for the school’s ASD class. The school now has its own hall and a library area.

Shannon Library will celebrate Bealtaine, Ireland’s national festival of the arts and ageing, with a trad music session with Los Paddys in the library on Friday 8th May at 3.30pm. Los Paddys music is a fusion of Celtic roots with South American rhythm creating a totally unique sound. All are welcome, refreshments served. The library will also host an exhibition of art pieces by clients of Carrigoran Daycare Centre for the month of May. For further information contact Shannon Library on 061 364266.

Gaelscoil Donncha Rua

the

l Gaelscoil Donncha Rua schoolchildren celebrate the good news and (right) Eilish McGettigan presents principal Aisling Ní Áirtnèada with a cheque for €1,400 from the Gerdy McGettigan memorial football tournament 2026 Photo by Joe Buckley

l (L-R) Katie Black, Asst. Brand Manager, Shannon Airport, Kathryn Thomas, Emily Brown, Brand Manager, and Tim Ryan, Head of Brand and Marketing, The Shannon Airport Group pictured at the launch of the Win Your Holiday Wishlist mega flight giveaway Photo by Arthur Ellis

People, pets and ponies prepare for

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS

will hum with life this Sunday as families, horses, cattle and dogs put their best foot forward for the Newmarket-on-Fergus Agriculture Show.

Like so many community-run festivals, local families are at the heart of Newmarket-on-Fergus’ show, notes Vice-chair, Sarah Lynch.

Her own mother Ida was treasurer before here while her dad Pat is a driving force in the young horse showing section. Both were involved in the show since Day 1.

Now in its 44th edition, Sarah notes, “It’s really a family event and there are probably three families that have been running this from generation to generation.”

The annual event started off as a Gymkhana before expanding its offering to include horse showing and the cattle showing.

John McInerney is in his second year as Chair of the committee, having become involved in the Show through the vintage display.

Today, the Newmarket-on-Fergus Show includes horse and pony jumping, horse and pony

showing, cattle showing, a vintage display and a dog show which attracts dog-owners from across

Munster and further afield. Sarah notes, “I suppose every year we just get bigger and bigger.

There will be food stalls, a baking competition and photography competition. We have kids’ en-

tertainment including hurdy gurdies, a bouncy castle, a pet farm and face-painting. There’s something there to suit everybody.

This year, a big screen television will play the senior hurling championship match between Clare and Limerick, while there will be live music courtesy of Brid O’Gorman and her young musicians in the build-up to the match. There will be a donation book present at the music with all proceeds going to Emma’s Every Step, which is in support of local girl Emma McCormack who lives with cerebral palsy and aortic stenosis - a congenital heart condition.

Praising the volunteers and supporters of the event, Sarah adds, “We have a fantastic community. People come from the village, out from Shannon and from Ennis. They come from all over and I think it’s because we have a wide variety of things happening. It’s a great day out and it’s a family day out.”

The 44th Newmarket-on-Fergus Show takes place at Tremolin’s estate (near Dromoland Castle) this Sunday, May 3, with classes beginning at 9:30am and music from 12pm.

l BIG DAY OUT: The Newmarket-on-Fergus Agricultural Show takes place this Sunday near Dromoland Castle. Pictured is the show set-up from last year’s event. Thousands are expected to attend this weekend where the Clare vs Limerick hurling match will be shown on a television on site

Newmarket-on-Fergus Show

l RARING TO GO: Action from a previous year’s Newmarket on Fergus horse jumping section, which proves to attract good numbers each year; and (right) James McNamara and Tiernan O’Neill enjoying the dog show back in 2019

Photos by Michael O’Brien

Kilfenora Festival has North Clare doing jigs

l Thousands of music and dance enthusiasts attended the Kilfenora Traditional Irish Music Festival which was hosted in the village over the weekend. Events took place inside and out, with music happening at Nagles and in the square where huge crowds came out to dance to the tune of the Kilfenora Céilí Band

Photos by John O’Neill

Festival of Finn set for May Bank Holiday weekend

IT WILL be a weekend of music, art, drama, dance and fun for children of all ages on the May bank holiday weekend, when the 26th annual four-day Festival of Finn takes place in the North Clare village of Corofin.

Many of the old favorites are back -- like the Lark at the Lake and the Fancy Dress Parade, the 25th annual World Stone-Throwing Championships and the Salmon of Knowledge Table Quiz. And they are joined this year by some new events, including several art workshops, a ‘tween’ trad session and a festival café at the Hall on the afternoon on May 2.

Among highlights of this year’s festival:

*A free talk at the Hall by Sean and John Davoren of the Caherconnell Ringfort in Carron, who will introduce the audience to the 1,000-year history of that remarkable place. 7:45, opening reception, 8:20 p.m., talk, April 30

*A ‘visible mending’ workshop, creating artistic designs from clothing repairs. 2 p.m., May 2. And a paper-making workshop. 2 p.m., May 3. Both at the hall. Free but must register on Eventbrite as numbers are limited.

*A performance at the Hall of ‘Wit,’ by the Corofin Dramatic Society, which has been selected for the All-Ireland finals. 8 p.m., May 3

*Children’s puppet show featuring the Custard Pie Puppets, €5 per child at the Hall. 12 p.m., May 2.

House will open its gates, with visits to the ruins of the water mill there, and a sale of unusual plants propagated on site. €2 per person, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., May 2

The stone-throwing championship gets underway at 4 p.m. on May 3, at the Fair Lane car park in the village. The parade kicks off on May 4 at 12:30 p.m. at the Hall. The theme is ‘anything goes,’ so put your thinking cap on! And the always-popular

Lark at the Lake starts not long after the parade at 2:30 p.m. at Lake Inchiquin. Plenty of children’s activities, music, dancing, food and more.

In addition, a number of guided walks are scheduled throughout the weekend. This includes two walks, at 10 a.m. on both May 1 and May 4, with local residents who will reflect on village life in times past.

Look for the brochures and posters listing all events in stores, cafés,

A WHEELY GOOD GUY

libraries and other locations in Corofin, Ennis and throughout the North Care region. Also, check out the Visit Corofin and the Festival of Finn Facebook page for up-to-the-minute information. This is an event you won’t want to miss.

*Clifden

l ON THE ROAD AGAIN: Brendan McCullough, Dysart, Corofin, who took part in the Annual Cliffs of Moher Cycle Challenge yesterday. Some 1,000 Cyclists took part in the very well organised Cycle Challenge. The weather was kind, so everyone enjoyed the experience and are already looking forward to next year

Photo by Brendan Cusack

Galway landowner ‘unaware’ that land where 4.7 acres of trees were felled was an SAC

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A south Co Galway land-owner has told a court that he was unaware that lands where 1.9 hectares (4.7 acres) of trees were felled was a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Director and co-owner of Kilcolgan Properties Ltd, Derek Corbett made his comment at Gort District Court where Judge Adrian Harris imposed cumulative penalties and legal costs on Mr Corbett’s firm totalling €3,900 relating to a prosecution by the Dept of Agriculture concerning a Ministerial re-planting order.

Mr Corbett (46) of Kilternan East, Kilcolgan, Co Galway told the court that he bought the lands as development lands and he was not aware that the lands were included in a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

In court, Forestry In-

spector with Dept of Agriculture, Donal Keegan explained that the Dept of Agriculture had taken legal action against Kilcolgan Properties and Derek Corbett concerning their failure in 2024 to comply with a Ministerial tree re-planting order issued in 2023.

Mr Keegan said that 1.9 hectares (4.7 acres) of trees had been felled at lands within the Castletaylor Complex SAC and that was in court before.

Mr Keegan said that arising from those proceedings the Dept of

Agriculture subsequently issued a Ministerial re-planting order in 2023 for lands at Cremore Ardrahan in south Galway. He said: “It would be normal when trees are felled that the Dept would issue a replanting order to make sure trees would be

replanted and protected going forward.”

Kilcolgan Properties Ltd and Mr Corbett - both of Kilternan East, Kilcolgan, Co Galway were before court where guilty pleas were entered that between April 11th and November 19th 2024 at Cremore, Ardrahan, Co Galway they did fail to comply with the replanting order issued by the Minister for Agriculture on October 5th 2023.

The prosecution first came to court last July.

Giving the up to date position, Mr Keegan said that 800 trees have been replanted and the landowner has now fully complied with the replanting order.

Mr Keegan said that the landowner provided a report from a forester proposing alternative planting and that was agreed by the Department.

State Solicitor for Co Galway, Rachel Joyce

said that her own costs in the case were €1,500 and counsel’s costs were under €2,000.

Judge Harris told the court that 800 “is a substantial number of trees”. He said: “I do take on board that Mr Corbett bought the lands as development land and wasn’t aware that it was an SAC.”

Judge Harris told Mr Corbett: “I hope you appreciate that the SAC are there for a reason and there to protect the wildlife and planting and foliage.”

Judge Harris said that considerable costs were being sought in the case and that would be reflected in the fines imposed. He said that he would impose costs of €3,500 for two summons against Kilcolgan Properties and combined fines of €400 on the firm and take the single summons against Mr Corbett personally into account.

Galway man (35) guilty of ‘race hate’ offence after shouting racial slur at woman in Gort

by Gordon Deegan

A 35 year old man has pleaded guilty to a ‘race-hate’ offence when repeatedly shouting “Black c**t” at a woman in broad-daylight on a street in the south Galway town of Gort last May.

At Gort District Court, Sgt Claire Henaghan said that Anthony Dunleavy of Crowe Street, Gort repeatedly shouted ‘Black c**t’ at the woman on Crowe Street in Gort on May 2nd last.

Sgt Heneghan told the court that Mr Dunleavy “shouted it a number of times at the injured party so much so that he continued to do as she cycled away”.

Sgt Heneghan said that the female “was in complete shock. She didn’t know the defendant and had never met him before and she couldn’t understand how the incident could have happened on the street in the afternoon.”

In the case, Mr Dunleavy has pleaded guilty to an offence under ‘hate offence’ legislation introduced here in 2024, the Criminal

(Hate Offences) Act 2024. Mr Dunleavy has pleaded guilty to engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting words with

intent to provoke a breach of the peace and demonstrating at the time hatred towards the woman in question and that hatred being on account of her race.

Judge Adrian Harris said that Mr Dunleavey had engaged “in the most outrageous, appalling behaviour”.

Judge Harris said: “This is disgusting language and disgusting behaviour.”

Judge Harris said that “as new judge in town in Gort I will not under any circumstances tolerate racism of any kind.”

Gort has a large Brazilian population and Judge Harris said he has been coming to Gort for many years and said that the behaviour displayed by Mr Dunleavy “is not in any way characteristic of the town of Gort in any way whatsoever”.

Solicitor, Olivia Lynch for Mr Dunleavy said her client accepts entirely the facts as outlined by

Sgt Heneghan “and he cannot excuse his behaviour”.

She said: “In the first instance he wants to apologise to the victim and he said that it won’t happen again.”

Ms Lynch said: “I have asked him to explain and all he said that he was having a very difficult time at the time.” Ms Lynch said that Mr Dunleavy was very anxious to deal with the matter.

She said that her client is unemployed and might be suitable for a Community Service Order. Judge Harris said that he would adjourn the case to allow the injured party to provide a victim impact statement and adjourned the case to July

Judge Harris said that would also adjourn the matter for a Probation Report on Mr Dunleavy and the adjournment would allow Mr Dunleavey “reflect on his behaviour and the words used and the hurt caused”.

l The incident occurred on Crowe Street in Gort

l The trees were felled in an area of conservation near Ardrahan Stock pic

Cherishing life & living meaningfully

Spreading

RONAN SCULLY

Rthe word of positivity: Thought for the week

ECENTLY, I had the gift of spending a few precious days walking through the wild, unspoilt beauty of the West of Ireland with colleagues who, over the years, have become true and trusted friends.

Surrounded by mountains, sea, and the deep stillness that only nature can hold, we found ourselves gently letting go of work, worries, and the usual noise of life, and instead speaking from the heart about something far more real, life itself, its fragility, its quiet beauty, and how swiftly it all passes.

As we followed narrow pathways between ancient stone walls and soft bogland, with the Atlantic wind brushing our faces, something within us began to soften. In that unhurried, sacred space, conversation changed. We spoke less of schedules, and more of what truly matters, the gift of each day and the gentle invitation life gives us to live more fully, more gratefully, and more meaningfully. In that stillness, I found myself reflecting deeply on what it really means to cherish life. With each shared step and each quiet pause, friendship deepened, perspective softened, and hearts seemed to breathe a little more freely.

THE WONDER WE ONCE KNEW

There is something deeply sacred about watching a small child greet the morning. Children, especially toddlers, wake with joy in their hearts and wonder in their eyes. They do not carry yesterday’s grudges. They forgive quickly. They laugh easily. They run toward life, not away from it. A new day is not a burden to them, it is a gift waiting to be opened. I often think of my own daughters when they were small, how they would leap out of bed each morning with smiles and excitement, simply because it was a new day. No fear. No bitterness. No heavy burdens. Just joy. And I often ask myself, ‘When did we lose that? Somewhere along the road of adulthood, many of us traded wonder for worry, peace for pressure, gratitude for restlessness. Yet Jesus gently reminds us, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3). Perhaps part of living a meaningful life is learning how to return to simplicity, to trust, to gratitude, to forgiveness, to mercy, to charity, to hope, to love and to joy.

THE QUIET QUESTION

There comes a moment, sometimes in stillness, sometimes in breaking, when life asks a question we cannot avoid, ‘Are you truly living… or just getting through?’ We fill our days with noise, responsibilities, distractions, deadlines, and endless demands. We postpone rest. We delay joy. We tell ourselves we will slow down later. And slowly, almost without noticing, we begin to settle, for less peace, less purpose, less life. We tell ourselves it doesn’t matter. But deep down, we know it does. Life is precious. Fragile. Sacred. We know this all too well. Life can change in a single phone call. A diagnosis. A loss. A goodbye we did not know would be our last. We make plans as though tomorrow is guaranteed, yet none of us are promised another sunrise. Time slips quietly through our fingers. Of-

ten, we do not realise how precious life is until something shakes us awake.

THE LIE OF “NOT ENOUGH”

We often believe that before we can do something meaningful, we must first become more. More talented. More confident. More experienced. More ready. So we wait. And wait. And wait. But what if the truth is the opposite? What if God is not waiting for you to be great, but simply willing and genuine?

THE POWER OF THE LITTLE

Scripture reminds us again and again that God does not begin with abundance. He begins with surrender. A widow with one small jar of oil. A boy with five loaves and two fish. Ordinary people with trembling faith. And yet, the oil did not run dry. The bread fed thousands. Lives were changed forever. “They brought the jars to her and she kept pouring…” (2 Kings 4:6). “Here is a boy with five small loaves and two small fish…” (John 6:9). Do you see the pattern? God does not ask for everything. He asks for what you have. Your time. Your kindness. Your broken heart. Your trembling faith. Your small beginning. And then He does what only He can do. You are not too small. You are not too late. You are not too broken. You are already enough for God to begin.

A FLOWER

There is a story of a man sitting beneath a tree, weary with life, burdened by disappointment and heaviness, when a young boy approached him holding a wilted, broken flower. To the man, it looked useless. Lifeless. Not worth noticing. But the little boy smiled and said: “It’s beautiful. I picked it just for you.”

The man reached out reluctantly, until he realised something that stopped him in his tracks. The boy was blind. And yet… he saw beauty. In that moment, the man understood something that pierced his heart: The problem was never the world. The problem was how he had been seeing it. How often are we blind to what still remains good? How often do we dismiss what is small, imperfect, or fragile? How often do we overlook grace because it does not arrive wrapped in perfection? Sometimes the holiest thing we can do is simply learn to see again. To notice. To be grateful. To cherish.

SACREDNESS OF THE ORDINARY

Life is not lived in grand, rare moments. It is lived in the ordinary. A conversation. A meal. A walk. A quiet prayer. A shared laugh. A cup of tea. A visit to someone lonely. Each moment is not something to rush through, it is something to enter. Look at the sky, it lifts your thoughts. Stand by the ocean, it gives perspective. Watch the trees, they teach you how to root deeply and let go freely. Speak less. Listen more. Rest when you are weary. Laugh when you can. Cry when you must. Forgive, even when it costs you. Apologise when you are wrong. Choose compassion, even when it is difficult. And remember that everyone you meet is carrying something you cannot see. Be gentle. Always.

LEAVING A LEGACY OF LOVE

At the end of our lives, people will not gather to remember our bank account. They will remember our kindness. They will remember if we showed up. If we listened. If we forgave. If we loved. Did we make people feel seen? Safe? Valued? Forgiven? Loved?

Jesus tells us: “Whatever you did

for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” (Matthew 25:40).

We are here to build up, not tear down. To heal, not to wound. To encourage, not to discourage. To love, not merely to exist. At the end of all, things, possessions will not matter. Not your success. Not your achievements. Not your image. Only this will remain, ‘How did you love? Did you love yourself enough to heal? Did you love others enough to serve? Did you love this life enough to truly live it?’ Because love is not just a feeling. It is a choice. A sacrifice. An action.

“Above all, love each other deeply…” (1 Peter 4:8). That is true success. That is a meaningful life.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, here is an invitation or challenge for your week, ‘Stop waiting.’ Stop waiting until life gets easier. Stop waiting until you feel ready. Stop waiting until you have more. Take what you have such as your time, your kindness, your gifts, talents and abilities, your wounds, your brokenness and offer it. Take one sacred pause every day.

Ask yourself honestly, ‘Am I truly living or merely rushing? Did I tell the people I love that I love them? Did I forgive someone or ask for forgiveness myself? Did I notice someone lonely? Did I choose kindness when I could have chosen convenience? Did I pray? Did I thank God for this day? Did I leave someone’s heart lighter than I found it?

Because one day, all the busy things we worried about will fade. And only love will remain.

So this week: Call someone. Visit someone. Forgive someone. Help someone. Rest if you are weary. Ask for help if you are struggling. Pray for someone. Be kinder than necessary. Smile more. Complain less. Judge less. Love more. Be someone’s reason to believe goodness still exists. You may never know how much one small act of love can change a life. But Heaven knows. And sometimes, that is enough. And trust this: ‘If you keep pouring, God will keep filling.” Let me leave you with a prayer poem I wrote to go with this piece - “Heavenly Father, Thank You for the precious gift of life. Thank You for every sunrise, every ordinary moment, every person You have placed in our path. Forgive us for the times we rush past beauty, overlook blessings, and forget how sacred this life truly is. Teach us to slow down. Help us to cherish the people we love before time slips away. Help us to forgive quickly, love generously, and live faithfully. Give us hearts that notice the lonely, the hurting, the forgotten, and the weary. Make us instruments of Your peace in a world so often filled with fear. Teach us to find joy in simple things, gratitude in every season, and meaning in every moment. Help us to live not for ourselves alone, but for love. Help us to care for ourselves without guilt, to rest without fear, and to trust that even our small offerings can be multiplied by Your grace. May our lives become quiet reflections of Your mercy. May we leave behind not wealth, but kindness. Not perfection, but faithfulness. Not noise, but peace. And when our own journey ends, may we leave this world having loved deeply, served humbly, and trusted completely in You. For life is short, love is eternal, and You are forever. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.” Keep well always everyone and never forget, ‘This life is your sacred chance to love well. Cherish it.’

Macalla an Chláir

le MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

Clár beatháisnéise faoi Mháire Ní Bhraonán at TG4

LLéargas ar shaol agus ar shaothar

Mháire Ní Bhraonáin. Fuair Máire bás le deireanas, beannacht Dé lena hanam. Dé Sathairn ag 19:15 ar TG4.

l CEANNRÓDAÍ/GROUNDBREAKING:

TG4 are to show a definitive portrait of the life and career of Moya Brennan from the Donegal Gaeltacht family band, Clannad. Moya recently passed away may she rest in peace. Saturday at 19:15.

Burns steers the ship in Doolin

DOOLIN Ferry was honoured to welcome GAA President, Jarlath Burns, on board earlier today as he travelled to Inis Oírr for a special visit to the Aran Islands.

Mr Burns was greeted on arrival at Doolin Pier by Captain Máirtín Ó Dónaill before boarding the Cliffs of Moher Express, where he also spent time in the wheelhouse, taking the helm for a moment and enjoying the spectacular sea views.

The visit coincided with Mr Burns’ attendance at the annual school sports day on Inis Oírr, a key community event on the island’s calendar.

Speaking following the visit, Liam O’Brien, owner of Doolin Ferry said:

“We were delighted to welcome Uachtarán CLG, Jarlath Burns to Doolin. It was a real privilege to host him aboard the ‘Cliffs of Moher Express’ - our new state-of-the-art vessel, offering an unmatched way to travel to the Aran Islands in comfort and style.

Doolin Ferry operates daily sailings to the Aran Islands and the Cliffs of Moher, offering visitors a unique vantage point of one of Ireland’s most iconic landscapes.

For more information, visit www.doolinferry.com

Saol agus saothar Mháire Ní Bhraonáin ar TG4 san oíche Dé Sathairn ag 19:15

Keep 2026 Fire Free

Spanish Point students shine in Estuary competition

Students from Shannon Estuary counties have raised their voices for having the estuary realised as a key global renewable energy and logistics hub at a Shannon Foynes Port Company schools’ competition final. The weekend gala final of the fifth biannual Shannon Foynes Port Company ‘COMPASS’ competition for Transition Year students from Shannon Estuary catchment counties was a clarion call through brilliantly produced short films and presentations around the imperative for transforming the estuary into a global renewable energy and logistics hub. Held at the Flying Boat & Maritime Museum in Foynes, St Joseph’s Spanish Point represented County Clare and were amongst the finalists. There was more Banner county representation in the

form of Clare’s own Sharon Shannon, who was special guest at the event.

The outright winner of the competition was Coláiste Chiaráin, Croom, Co. Limerick with their presentation ‘Sorry to Interrupt’. Based on the challenges that happen

when transport and energy are interrupted, their video and presentation focused on how realising the Shannon Estuary opportunity can secure both and transform the region into a global renewable energy and logistics hub at the same time.

The Co. Limerick team – which walked away with a cheque of €5,000 for the school, iPads for each team members and a Gold Commemorative Medal - were one of five schools who made the final at the Foynes Flying Boat & Maritime Museum from a short list of entries from across counties Clare, Kerry, Limerick and North Tipperary.

Other finalists were St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Spanish Point, Co. Clare; Coláiste Íde agus Iosef, Abbeyfeale; Salesian Secondary College, Pallaskenry, Co. Limerick; Laurel Hill Secondary School, Limerick.

All entrants developed, over recent months, short films focusing on the estuary’s potential to drive sustainable development through transport, connectivity, and renewable energy.

Minister Norma Foley said, “I think it’s a wonder-

ful competition because it introduces the young people to the power of the Shannon Estuary and the power and the importance of Shannon Foynes Port.

“The students have an opportunity through this competition to engage in a plan for the future. It’s so important that we harness the potential of the estuary and creating a greater vision for the future. And I have no doubt that some of these students will have a bigger and broader vision than we even have now.”

Shannon Foynes Port Chief Executive Pat Keating said that the standard of entries highlighted not only the students’ storytelling ability, but also their research into the estuary’s strategic importance. “We are immensely proud of what COMPASS has become. The students today really showed that they got the message of what

the Shannon Estuary can do for Ireland and beyond it. It clearly ties with their own values as young people who want. They want growth and they want sustainability and the Shannon Estuary can do both at international scale.”

Shannon Foynes Port Company Chair Michael Walsh said that the competition confirmed the Shannon Foynes Port Company strategy synchronises with what younger generations want. “This competition shows what the Shannon Estuary can deliver in the future is exactly what the students want. They told us loud and clear also that they want to be part of this change. It’s very encouraging that our plans here are in lock step with what they want for the future.”

For more information on Shannon Foynes Port Company and the COMPASS TY Schools Competition, visit www.sfpc.ie.

l St Josephs Secondary School Spanish Point students, Emily Pyper, Claudina Leal, Amelia Jurkowska, Chloe Talty and Serena Wickham Photo by Arthur Ellis

by Stuart Holly news@clareecho.ie

Thousands turn out for Clare Garden Festival

l Huge crowds attended the 2026 Clare Garden Festival at the Showgrounds in Ennis on Sunday afternoon. Throughout the grounds, inside and out, there were in excess of 70 stalls along with talks and presentations on stage from a panel of local experts. The Clare Echo is proud to serve as media partner of the festival, run successfully by Carmen Cronin

Photos by Tom Micks

Sustainable tourism awards for 69 businesses based in the Burren

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

A GROUP of almost 70 businesses based in the Burren have been recognised for their commitment to sustainability.

Clare County Council, in part nership with the Burren Ecotour ism Network and the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, has recognised 69 tour ism businesses for their commit ment to sustainable tourism prac tices at an awards ceremony held at the Falls Hotel, Ennistymon, on Thursday, April 16.

The Code of Practice for Sus tainable Tourism Awards celebrate businesses that are actively work ing together to develop the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark as a sustainable destination, while con serving natural and cultural herit age, supporting communities and strengthening the local economy.

Participants in the Code of Prac tice demonstrate measurable com mitments across a wide range of sustainability areas, including en ergy and water conservation, waste and waste‑water management, lo cal sourcing, visitor communica tion, accessibility and climate ac tion planning.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Paul Murphy, said, “When businesses choose to work as a network, the impact is far great er than what any one organisation

rooted in place.”

The Code of Practice for Sustain able Tourism Awards form part of the wider Sustainable Destination Certification process, which pro vides a structured framework for continuous improvement. Busi nesses engage in training and mentoring and develop tailored environmental action plans aligned with the Geopark Code of Practice for Sustainable Tourism.

The Code of Practice is built on six core principles, including: working together; caring for the landscape; understanding heritage; supporting vibrant communities; strengthening livelihoods; and ensuring sustaina ble environmental management.

Certificates were presented across six categories, including: ac commodation; activity providers; attractions and visitor experiences; food producers; restaurants; and retailers. Some 69 businesses also achieved Emerald status, which recognises scores of 91% or higher under the Code.

Carol Gleeson, Manager, Bur ren & Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, said, “The Code of Practice sets a clear benchmark for

can achieve alone. The Burren busi nesses have been working together as a Network since 2008, and since 2019 they have demonstrated their sustainable credentials through a third party evaluated Code of Prac tice. This is unique in Ireland, and it is one of the foundation stones of Clare’s journey towards Sustainable Destination Certification.”

what sustainable tourism looks like in the Burren. These 69 businesses are leading by example, embedding care for the landscape, heritage and local communities into how they operate every day, while offering high‑quality visitor experiences

The Burren Ecotourism Network works in partnership with Clare County Council and the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Geopark to establish the region as a premier internationally recognised sustain able tourism destination, while supporting high standards, col laboration, skills development and long‑term environmental and eco nomic resilience.

Trump Doonbeg unable to restore conditions for tiny protected snail

by Gordon Deegan

news@clareecho.ie

OPERATORS of the five-star Trump Doonbeg resort in Doonbeg have stated it is beyond their control to restore the favourable conservation status of the tiny EU protected snail, Vertigo Angustior on site.

The claim is contained in a first party appeal lodged by Trump Doonbeg firm, TIGL Ireland Enterprises Ltd to An Coimisúin Pleanála against a planning condition concerning the tiny whorl snail attached to the planning permission for a new ballroom.

In February, Clare County Council gave the planning green light for the ballroom but on condition that prior to work starting, Trump Doonbeg must submit a Vertigo Angustior Management Plan to the Council to include conservation management actions to restore the favourable status of the Vertigo Angustior on the Trump Doonbeg lands. However, Trump Doonbeg is now contesting the condition. In the extensive first party appeal, planning consultants for Trump Doonbeg, CSR Land Planning and Design state “it is not within our client’s control to restore favourable status of this protected species (Vertigo Angustior).” Director at CSR, Eamonn Prenter states that it could be contended that the Vertigo Angustior has not historically achieved favourable conservation status on the site largely due to natural processes such as marine erosion.

The appeal states that monitoring data since 2020 demonstrates a significant decline in both the distribution and population levels of the Vertigo Angustior at the site and as a result, three of the four criteria required to demonstrate the snail’s favourable status were not met in the 2024/25 monitoring period.

The four criteria are a presence in four maritime grasslands; population counts of

20 or more snails in at least two maritime samples; a distribution range of 3km2 and positive future prospects.

Mr Prenter states that evidence for the decline of the snail within coastal systems points to natural reasons rather than any man-made activity.

He states that “accepting this, it is highly unlikely that favourable conservation status for Vertigo Angustior could be achieved on

site”.

The appeal argues that such an onerous condition concerning the snail “is not achievable in its current form as it goes beyond what was reasonably anticipated by both the (Council) planning officer and the Environmental Assessment Officer”.

The Trump Doonbeg appeal states that it is seeking the change of just two words in the condition concerning the Vertigo Angustior where the words ‘restore favourable’ conservation status would be replaced by ‘support the’ conservation status of the snail.

Mr Prenter states that he believes that the amendment on Condition 2 and connected amendment in Condition 4 will find support from the Council and NPWS when they do make their submissions to ACP on the appeal.

The appeal states that “brief and informal discussions with NPWS would indicate that they are accepting in principle of the proposed rewording”.

Mr Prenter states that NPWS will concur that the current wording “is overly onerous and likely to represent an unachievable requirement by our client”.

The application was already before ACP after objector, Liam Madden of Convent Rd, Longford lodged a third-party appeal urging the commission to “please refuse this nonsense”.

ACP is due to decide on the case in July.

l Bunratty Castle Hotel’s reopening is a boost to the area

l Celebrating the oldest tourism businesses in the Burren, Cathaoirleach of Clare Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) presenting the Code of Practice Awards to Pauline and Aileen of the Burren Visitor Centre and Aillwee Cave’s Nuala Mulqueeny

Strong passenger growth, €30m in profit, and major capital investment highlighted in Shannon Airport Group report

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

THE Shannon Airport Group says it is “encouraged” by its fi nancial performance last year, following the publication of its 2025 annual report.

According to a statement by Shannon Airpot Group, the newly-published report marks a year of strong airport passenger growth, solid financial performance, and significant investment across Shannon Airport and the Shannon Airport Business Park while achieving its energy-efficiency tar get.

Commenting on the results, Ray O’Driscoll, Interim CEO of The Shannon Airport Group said: “2025 was a positive year for the Group. We delivered strong passenger growth, strengthened international connectivity and continued investment in our infrastructure and sustainability initiatives.

ark, Boston and Chicago continue to play a central role in Shannon Airport’s offering.

“We are encouraged by our financial performance, and with our growing asset base, we are on a solid financial footing to launch the next phase of our development strategy.

“These results reflect the continued support of our stakeholders, partners and customers, and the exceptional commitment of our teams.”

Passenger numbers surpassed 2.3 million in 2025, up nine per cent year-on-year and 34 per cent above 2019 pre-pandemic levels, making 2025 Shannon Airport’s best year in 16 years and its fifth consecutive year of growth.

There was strong growth on European services in 2025 which were up 13 per cent. UK traffic increased by eight per cent, with Heathrow passenger volumes reaching an 18year high in 2025.

Airline confidence strengthened further, with the route network set to expand to 40 routes in 2026, the largest in over 17 years. This includes five new European services to Rome, Warsaw, Madrid, Poznań and Frankfurt. The airport’s five transatlantic routes to New York,

During 2025, the Group continued to receive industry recognition, with Shannon Airport named as Ireland’s No.1 Airport Brand for the third consecutive year and the Group receiving national award recognition for airport operations and sustainability excellence.

The Group reported a solid financial performance in 2025. Turnover increased by seven per cent on 2024 to €78.4 million, while the Group reported EBITDA (Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortisation) of €19.3 million, up six per cent on 2024. The Group’s profit for the year stood at €30.5 million (before tax), underpinning a strong asset base of €334 million and enabling the next phase of strategic development.

The Group invested more than €20 million in 2025, bringing total investment over the past decade to almost €200 million, with a further €40 million planned for projects across the Group in 2026. Planned developments include extensive upgrades to the airport’s immigration area and baggage hall, enhancements to taxiway infrastructure, and a thermal, energy-efficient facelift to the outside of the terminal building.

“Together, these investments will support smoother, more resilient airport operations while also improving comfort, efficiency and first impressions for passengers arriving at the airport,” said Mr O’Driscoll.

The Shannon Airport Business Park, home to over 300 companies and 10,000 employees, continued to perform strongly, nearing full occupancy, and attracting high-value, innovation-led tenants. In November 2025, construction commenced on a €13 million commercial property development, reinforcing the Group’s commitment to sustainable growth and job creation. The project will deliver two state-of-the-art

industrial units, Blocks Y & Z, adding approximately 100,000 sq. ft. of flexible, sustainable space available for lease at one of Ireland’s premiere business locations.

Sustainability remained central to the Group’s strategy and major milestones were reached in 2025: The Group met its 2030 energy-efficiency target five years early (reducing energy consumption by 57% since 2009); reduced its scope 1 and 2 emissions by 54% since 2018; achieved Level 3 Airport Carbon Accreditation; and launched Ireland’s first airfield-based solar PV farm, capable of supplying up to 20% of airport electricity needs.

Looking to the future Mr O’Dri-

scoll said: “We are well positioned to deliver long-term value for the region and the country. We will continue to expand our route network, enhancing connectivity and delivering a positive experience for every passenger. Our property portfolio will support both multinational investment and indigenous enterprise, driving economic growth across the region. While global uncertainty continues to be a significant factor, our focus is firmly on long-term growth, regional development, advancing our sustainability goals and delivering for the communities we serve.”

Clare start-up TechStuff.ie named finalist in national awards

CLARE-based circular tech startup Techstuff.ie has been named a finalist in two categories at the Tech Excellence Awards 2026, one of Ireland’s most prestigious technology industry awards.

Techstuff.ie, co-founded by husband and wife Alan and Melissa Garrihy from Co. Clare, has been nominated for both the Start-Up Award and the Techies Go Green Sustainability Award at the awards ceremony taking place in Dublin on 14th May 2026.

Techstuff.ie began as a simple idea a marketplace where buyers and sellers of pre-owned devices across Ireland could connect easily while also promoting local Tech Shops. But as the platform grew, the co-founders began to realise the much bigger impact they could have on Ireland’s growing e-waste problem. That realisation led to a rebrand with the circular economy at its heart.

Today Techstuff.ie, along with the marketplace covers the full device lifecycle reuse, repair, refurbish, resell and responsibly recycle and includes a tech sales shop directory, repair shop directory and a directory of responsible recycling cen-

tres connecting people with local businesses and services across Ireland. Alan a previous owner of Digitech in Ennis is quick to point out that local tech repair and refurbishment shops are the unsung superheroes of the circular economy, quietly keeping devices in circulation every day by repairing, refurbishing and reselling technology that might otherwise end up in landfill.

The platform is already attracting local Clare businesses, with Munster Tech Centre and Fonewiz in Ennis, HH Phones in Ennistymon and West Clare Phones in Kilrush among the first shops to come on board further proof that the circular tech economy is alive and well in Clare.

The platform is also currently piloting TechStuff4Schools, a community device collection initiative for Clare schools, and has already started discussions with Corofin National School. The programme allows parents and local businesses to donate old phones and laptops to raise funds for schools while keeping devices out of landfill and tackling the growing problem of e-waste across Ireland.

Alan Garrihy, co-founder of Techstuff.ie, said: “Being nomi-

nated in two categories at a national level is a huge milestone for us. Melissa and I are building this from home in Clare while raising our three children, four cats and a dog, so recognition like this so early in our journey means a great deal. The marketplace was originally built with support from the Clare Local Development Company’s Leader Programme and we took everything in house from there. Some days we’re the website developers, some days the marketers, some days the social media managers and most days all three at once. We’re hoping to show that you don’t need to be based in a big city or backed by big investment to build something that makes a real difference. Just a good idea, the right people around you, a lot of Clare stubbornness and a very very strong marriage.” Techstuff.ie is supported by Enterprise Ireland’s New Frontiers Programme and Clare Local Development Company, and is a proud member of the Techies Go Green sustainability network.

For more information see

l The departures hall at Shannon Airport and (inset) (R-L) Ray O’Driscoll, Interim CEO, The Shannon Airport Group, Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Environment & Energy, Darragh O’Brien TD, Conal Henry, Chairman, The Shannon Airport Group and Niall Kearns, Airport Director, Shannon Airport pictured at the launch of the 1st on airfield Solar PV farm at Shannon Airport in November 2025

Davy Mc back in the mix for Clare hurlers

by Páraic McMahon

DAVID McInerney will be available for selection for Clare’s senior hurlers as they welcome Limerick to Cusack Park for a sell-out Munster championship cracker.

Two-time All Star McInerney missed out on Clare’s six point win over Waterford a fortnight ago but is back in the mix for game time. The primary school teacher was also ruled out for Clare’s Division 1B league final win over Dublin and had been named to start in the final round against Wexford but was a late omission. He was introduced as a substitute during Clare’s win over Kildare in the fourth round of the league and started the subsequent game against Carlow but was forced off with an injury after six minutes. He featured for the full sixty minutes for Tulla in their Division 3 league game against Cratloe over the weekend in a game the East Clare side won 1-20 2-16. The jump from a full game with his club to the heat of Munster championship is significant and may preclude his absence from the start.

All members of the

Clare senior hurling panel who did not receive game time against Waterford in the first round and were fit to play were released to their clubs over the weekend with many featuring in the Clare Cup and having influential roles including David Fitzgerald who impressed with six points from play for Inagh/Kilnamona.

Clonlara were boosted by the return of Dylan McMahon, Colm O’Meara and John Conlon. Sources in Clonlara have said it was agreed prior to throw-in that Conlon would only play for fifteen minutes which has fuelled speculation that the most experienced member of the county squad will be in action against Limerick this weekend.

Since the win over Waterford, former Young Hurler of the Year Adam Hogan has come under unfair criticism. The Feakle defender required medical attention after receiving a cut to the head in a clash with Stephen Bennett. Hogan was accused of diving and RTÉ analysts on The Sunday Game who were not physically present in Cusack Park were also vocal in knocking the

Mary Immaculate College student instead of lauding one of the greatest blocks made in this year’s championship earlier in the game.

Along with the spotlight on Hogan, the concession of four goals has been flagged as the area which Clare need to cut down on in order to secure a long and fruitful championship campaign. None of the Clare defence stood out as having poor games while goalkeeper Eibhear Quilligan made two tremendous saves during round one.

However the need to supply greater protection to the backline may pave the way for the return of either McInerney and Conlon to the half-back line with a return to midfield for Cathal Malone touted.

Diarmuid Stritch’s impact from the bench a fortnight ago has helped his cause of receiving more game time but overall it is anticipated that Brian Lohan and his management will not make significant changes for the tie with the beloved neighbours from Limerick.

David McInerney

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Limerick set to be without Lynch & Gillane for Clare clash

by Páraic McMahon

FORMER Hurlers of the Year, Cian Lynch and Aaron Gillane are set to miss the Munster senior hurling championship showdown between Limerick and Clare.

Limerick captain Cian Lynch was red-carded by referee James Owens with more than twenty minutes remaining during their 2-22 1-23 defeat to Cork in front of an attendance of 43,369 in Páirc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday.

John Kiely’s side were already without Aaron Gillane for the visit Leeside, he picked up a calf injury at Limerick training on Tuesday with management stating that he will also be ruled out for the game against Clare in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg next Sunday.

There have been no reports of an appeal by Limerick GAA to try get Lynch’s suspension rescinded. The talented midfielder who had an immense opening half against Cork will be suspended for the clash of the neighbours, as it stands.

Doon’s Darragh O’Donovan is expected to slot into the side at midfield in the absence of Lynch while Shane O’Brien will lead the attack once again in the absence of Gillane with Aidan O’Connor on free-taking duties.

by Páraic McMahon

ATTEMPTS were made to remove Davy Fitzgerald from his position as Antrim senior hurling manager this week.

Moves to remove Fitzgerald from his position have been met with backlash from the Antrim senior hurling panel with the preferred candidate of County Board officials to take over from the two-time All-Ireland winner turning down the offer.

With one win in eight competitive games this season, morale is low in Antrim hurling.

Successive losses in the Joe McDonagh Cup to Down (1-22 0-23) and Laois (2-23 0-22) led to Antrim County Board officials approaching the Sixmilebridge native about stepping down, following the Laois loss.

It has also emerged in The Irish Examiner that officials lined up an individual to take over from Davy as interim manager to see out the remainder of the Joe McDonagh Cup but this individual turned down the offer.

An ultimatum was issued by the Antrim senior hurling squad to the County Board as it demands clarity on the position of

the 2013 All-Ireland winning manager. The panel are also keen to find a resolution with the allocation of training gear. The side did not train on Tuesday evening after their request to speak to officials was not taken up and

no meeting was held.

In a letter which emerged on Tuesday, the Antrim panel said if no engagement is forthcoming around their concerns, “the players will not proceed with the scheduled training session (on Tuesday night) and further action could be taken”.

Antrim GAA are not commenting on the matter currently.

As per the correspondence, the senior panel put pen to paper on the letter “to formally raise a

number of concerns regarding recent events that have caused confusion and frustration within the group.

“Firstly, there is significant concern surrounding the situation involving Davy. It is understood that a decision was

made to remove Davy from his position, only for that decision to later be reversed. When this was subsequently raised and questioned, the squad were informed that no such

Drama for Davy in Antrim

action had taken place.

“Furthermore, when this was brought to Seamus (McMullan), the chairman was asked directly about the matter and indicated that he had no knowledge of it. This is particularly concerning

given that Davy, other members of the management team, have all confirmed that the sequence of events did in fact occur. The contradiction between what occurred and what has been communicated has created uncertainty and a lack of trust among the players.

“Secondly, there are ongoing issues regarding training gear. A number of players have still not received the full allocation of gear that is expected. This has been highlighted as part of the basic gear requirements outlined in the GPA Players’

Charter, which further underlines the importance of addressing the matter without delay.

“In order to address these matters directly, the squad will be requesting that Seamus, along with any other members of the County Board who wish to attend, meet with the panel at training tonight, Tuesday 28th April 2026, to provide clarity and address the concerns outlined above. If Seamus and relevant board members are not in a position to attend and engage with the squad on these issues, the players will not proceed with the scheduled training session and further action could be taken.

“The squad respectfully request, Clarification on the sequence of events regarding the decision involving Davy. An explanation as to why conflicting information was provided when the matter was raised. An update on the status of outstanding training gear and when this will be resolved. Reassurance that clearer communication processes will be implemented going forward A prompt and transparent response would be appreciated. Yours sincerely, Antrim Senior Hurling Squad”.

Davy Fitzgerald

Photo by Ruth Griffin

‘His mother would be very proud of him’ -

Kilroy’s leadership commended

by Páraic McMahon

RONAN KILROY’s leadership has been lauded having made his senior championship debut and setting the way for the county U20 hurlers following a very difficult month.

Kilroy has been to the fore for Clare’s U20 hurlers who are firmly in the hunt to qualify for a Munster final. At centre forward, he has scored a point in each of Clare’s first three games and has been more influential with his workrate, ability to get on the ball and create scores.

Called up to Brian Lohan’s senior hurling squad in the midst of the Allianz National Hurling League, Ronan has been put in the unfamiliar surroundings of corner back but the challenge hasn’t fazed him. He made his championship debut from the bench in Clare’s six point win over Waterford replacing Adam Hogan with sixty eight minutes played.

His addition marked a historic moment for the Banner GAA as it was the first time that the Ennis club had two hurlers on the field for a senior championship game with Shane Meehan scoring a decisive goal at the other end of the field.

Away from hurling, the Kilroy family have experienced immeasurable loss with the death of Maeve (née McCarthy) on March 31st. Mother to Ronan, Eimear, Diarmuid and Tiernan, the Kilrush native was married to John who was also her best friend.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Clare U20 manager Terence Fahy commended Ronan for leading by example during a difficult few

weeks. “If you knew in our group the leadership that he has brought over the last two weeks it has blown some of us older people away, the strength and the leadership has been quite phenomenal and his mother would be very proud of him”.

Within Banner GAA, Maeve was a huge supporter of the club that her children represented and her husband coached with. “For those of us that were lucky enough to get to know Maeve over the years, she was a friendly, warm, and kind person and it was also great fun to be in her company or to meet her out for a walk and stop and have a chat. She was a huge supporter of the Banner club and was always one of the first people to cheer and congratulate any team or players that were lucky enough to have club or county success.

Maeve was immensely proud of her family’s involvement with the Banner and her smile on those days when John or one of her children had a good day with a Banner team is something that will live long in our memories from those that knew her,” a spokesperson for the club recalled.

“It might have just been a big smile after a good performance at an under 8 blitz or extending to those heady days in 2023 when the Kilroy family savoured being part of an All-Ireland success. Maeve was very much involved in the Ennis community outside of the Banner. She was a leading light in Ennis Swimming and Lifesaving Club for years and was also a volunteer trainer for the Irish Guide Dogs charity which was a cause very dear to her heart”.

Maeve served on both the Parents Association and Board of Management at Ennis National School where her four children went to school, she was described as “a wonderful presence in our school community”, a spokesperson for Ennis NS stated. “She will be warmly remembered by all who knew her”.

In a statement, Ennis Swimming and Lifesaving Club said, “Maeve was not only a dedicated swim mum, treasurer and club committee member for many years, but also a much loved friend to so many of our members young and old. She was always working away in the background, organising trips, events, galas and awards nights. We will greatly miss her friendship and support”. Ronan was with the Clare seniors in the days following Maeve’s passing as the county won the Division 1B league title. Coach Brendan Bugler in his pre-match TG4 interview stated, “Ronan’s a big player for us. He’s a fantastic fella, and I just want to take the opportunity to again send our condolences from our group to the Kilroy family”.

As he lifted the league trophy, full-back Conor Cleary took a moment to praise the UL student. “I’d like to say a special word to one of our panel members, Ronan Kilroy who lost his mother during the week, we’re all thinking of her during the week and again today, I think it shows the strength of his character that he is here supporting us”.

Clare minor hurlers embracing must-win territory to keep season alive

by Páraic McMahon

CLARE’s minor hurlers have embraced a win at all costs mentality as they look to keep their season alive.

A first win in three championship outings on Friday saw Clare defeat Waterford 1-20 2-12 in Sixmilebridge marking a full clean sweep of Banner wins over the Déise in senior, U20 and minor championship hurling this year.

It’s a result that has Clare vying to finish in third spot in Munster for the second year running which would be sufficient to see them qualify for a preliminary All-Ireland quarter-final. A place in the Munster final is highly unlikely as Clare have a bye for the final round of games.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, minor hurling manager Ger O’Connell insisted their chances of qualifying were well and truly alive. “It’s not slim, if you win two games you’re going to get out, we’ve put ourselves in the mix which

is great, this is hard because when you lose two games and confidence is massive with young lads, for them to rebound like this and to know when your back is to the wall that you come out swinging and we did, they came out fighting and we got the win we needed to get, we knew our year was on the line and we have something to cling on to down in Cork, we’ll go down with more confidence than we came in to today”. This Friday they head for Páirc Uí Rinn looking to record successive victories. There was a sense of relief and delight at the final whistle in O’Garney Park with Oran Duignan and Cian Maxted among the players jumping into the air when Canice Walsh blew an end to proceeedings. “We were in a position we didn’t want to be in after losing two games, the response from the boys since the Limerick game like these guys are only sixteen and seventeen years of age

but the response has been really mature in how we’ve dealt with it, they’ve knuckled down and they are such a really good group, I thought we deserved the win, the effort was through the roof, no lack of quality and I thought as a team we were really good and I’m really proud of them”. There was an improvement in physicality from Clare as they secured their first win, O’Connell felt. “I’ve said it from the word go that we had to up our physicality, the boys are a lovely group and lovely fellas but you don’t want to be known as a nice team, there has to be a bit of bite and there was today, it is a sign of maturity in the group that they are beginning to understand this isn’t easy, it is so hard to win games in Munster against teams like Waterford, they are a good team who beat Limerick and they beat us well two weeks ago. I’m really proud of them, our year was on the line and we knew that, the boys have responded as a full pan-

el, we had internal games and put pressure on them which was important. I can’t say enough about how they are maturing as the weeks go on and we’re seeing it, they are beginning to understand how hard you have to work to get these games, I’m really proud of them. Waterford were always going to come back at us in the second half, we always managed to get a score when we needed it”. Finding themselves in mustwin territory has forced a different approach, the Clonlara man admitted. “It completely changed the mindset, you have to go and do everything you can, we’ve a lot of good individuals so it is about trying to get them to gel as a team, we saw that coming together today but there is a lot more in them. We’ve put an awful lot of work into this since January, the hours put into this by the boys, their parents and everyone involved, this is deserved from the efforts put in by the full group”.

Clare minor hurling manager Ger O’Connell with Cian Mullins at the final whistle

Photo by Ruth Griffin

Ronan Kilroy in action for the Clare U20 hurlers. Photo Gerard O’Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

‘We

were as good as Kerry’ - Madden rues ‘blatant screening’

by Páraic McMahon

CLARE’s senior footballers

“were as good” as Kerry in Saturday’s Munster semi-final according to manager Paul Madden who was left “bitterly disappointed” by “blatant screening” which led to decisive scores.

Four points separated Clare and Kerry at half-time but the concession of two soft second half goals allowed the visitors go nine points clear in Ennis before late points from Mark McInerney and Aaron Griffin reduced the final gap to seven.

Losing to Kerry coupled with the four Allianz National Football League defeats which kept Clare in Division 3 has the Banner heading for the Tailteann Cup for the very first time after three successive All-Ireland SFC campaigns.

Inside Clare’s dressing room the mood at half-time was upbeat but close to an hour later, there was a sense of regret emanating. “We’re disappointed because at half time we felt the game was there for the taking, to be honest we did. Obviously we know their pedigree and they will have purple patches and you want to curtail the damage during their purple patch but over the whole course of the game bar maybe six or seven minutes at one stage in the second half, I thought we were as good as they were to be honest, I really did so that is disappointing in the context of it but if you can park that for a second which is hard because I don’t like losing, you would have to take a lot of positives out of the game,” Madden outlined. Adding some frustration was the screening which saw Clare players obstructed and enabled Kerry to get

off scores. “We were bitterly disappointed with some of the decisions and the officials have a tough job but definitely we felt there was blatant screening going on, I wouldn’t even call it screening, we were expecting some of that but it was third man fouls, even in the old game they were penalised,” the Ennis man said. From instances of screening or obstructing Ikem Ugwueru, Kerry scored 1-1 alone but Madden said such offences led to a combined 1-6 for the Munster champions. “We think they got 1-6 in total from that sort of stuff when you take two pointers into consideration. We still gave the ball away too many times, not many, we had one wide, we managed our possession quite well, we were under pressure at times, we went nine points down and brought it back but really and truly I didn’t think there was a big gulf in scoring difference between the teams but the scoreboard is what counts”.

Reflecting on their own performance, Paul acknowledged Clare errors added to their downfall. “We made our own mistakes too, a couple of sloppy handpasses but we were very comfortably with the ball really for most periods of the game when we were offensively going forward and trying to work a score we were very comfortable on the ball and we manufactured scores. It was a pity that Eoin (Cleary) left as early as he did because he is a very good two point option especially with a little bit of a breeze in the second half but the subs who came on were brought on for lads who were absolutely fatigued or injured and I thought they did a good job. Overall we have a lot of positives going forward,

we’ll be going all out to prepare for our next game”. How Clare conceded both goals both in their timing and manner was deflating. Paudie Clifford’s green flag on forty two minutes was responded to with three of the next four scores but David Clifford’s major on sixty minutes put the pin in the Banner balloon. “We got a good few scores after their first goal, I think we did okay after the first goal but the second one was just so frustrating, I felt we were going to get a free out the other direction but it is what it is and we can’t do anything about them now, we wish Kerry the best of luck going forward, we know we are capable of competing”.

Fitness wise, Madden felt Clare were on par with the reigning All-Ireland champions. “To be fair we had a good plan coming into the game,

you hear people saying we executed a plan but I think we did, the message was simple, we knew who was marking who and who was doing what. One of the big things for me at the start of the year was when you are playing top quality teams and there was some in Division 3 as well we have to remember but when you are playing top quality teams at inter-county level, you need to be in the right conditioned state to play them and I thought if anything all year even in the games we’ve lost and played poorly I thought we have been physically conditioning wise been a match for any team we’ve played and we were again today”.

Three-time footballer of the year David Clifford previously listed Gordon Kelly of St Joseph’s Miltown as one of his toughest opponents. His lat-

est Clare duel saw him pitted with Ikem Ugwueru with the Ennis man more than holding his own. “Ikem was very good today, he was hard done by for a couple of those screens and I thought he did an excellent job. Someone else in the media asked about Ikem, the thing about Ikem is he is an extreme athlete but he is rapid fast, he is very strong and he has great feet so it was an ideal match, he won three aerial tackles too, I thought he did really well as all the lads did, nobody was replaced because they played poorly, it was because they gave everything they had and we said if they did no matter what the result we would be proud of them”.

Focus now switches to the Tailteann Cup for Clare who welcome Offaly to Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg. “I said at the start of the year, no mat-

ter what competition we’re in we will give it everything, we would love to be in a Munster final and we feel we really had a chance to be in but we’re not and we will go all out to prepare for it, it won’t be easy because there’s good teams in it and teams that have beaten us already this year, we will take it game by game, we’re guaranteed a minimum of two games, it is about getting a little breather tonight and getting back on the training ground next week”. Eoin Cleary is a huge doubt for that encounter having picked up a hamstring injury. “It is a hamstring, the severity of it is unknown but it was instant, two weeks would be very optimistic”.

STORY OF THE GAME

Kerry 2-19 Clare 1-14

Venue: Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg, Ennis

Attendance: 5,526

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

KERRY

Frees for: 16 (8/8)

Wides: 4 (2/2)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 2-13

Top scorer: David Clifford (1-7 2TPf)

Bookings: Killian Spillane (64)

Black Card: David Clifford (61)

Own kickouts won: 12 from 16 (75%)

CLARE

Frees for: 9 (4/5)

Wides: 1 (0/1)

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 1-13

Top scorer: Mark McInerney (0-6 2TP 1f)

Bookings: Ikem Ugwueru (64)

Own kickouts won: 14 from 25 (56%)

Clare handed home draw to Offaly in Tailteann Cup

by Páraic McMahon

CLARE’s senior footballers have received a home draw against Offaly in the first round of the Tailteann Cup.

In what will be Clare’s very first involvement in the Tailteann Cup, they will welcome an Offaly side who are joint managed by three-time All-Ireland winning manager, Mickey Harte to Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg. The fixture will take place on the weekend of May 9th/10th.

An eight point loss to Kerry in Saturday’s Munster semi-final coupled with Clare’s failure to secure promotion to Division 2 of the Allianz National Football League has them lining out in the second tier competition.

Offaly have yet to win a competi-

tive fixture so far in 2026. They were relegated from Division 2 of the League following seven successive defeats and suffered a 3-12 0-12 defeat to Laois in the preliminary round of the Leinster SFC.

Although Offaly secured league promotion at Clare’s expense in 2025, Clare did defeat Offaly 2-14 2-9 in the final round but missed out on jumping up due to scoring difference.

In the 2024 league campaign, Clare emerged from O’Connor Park, Tullamore with a 2-10 1-12 win over Offaly thanks to a late goal from Diarmuid O’Donnell.

Though the sides have never met in the Tailteann Cup, the most recent championship encounter between the sides was in 2018 when Clare were 1-19 2-14 winners, Cillian

Brennan and Eoin Cleary are the only surviving members of the Colm Collins managed team on that day.

Limerick who are coached by Quilty’s Evan Talty with Shannon Gaels clubman Dylan Kenny as S&C coach are away to Wexford in the first round.

Pairings were confirmed on Monday lunchtime via the GAA’s streaming service GAA+.

The winners of the eight ties will progress to Round 2A, with four teams from that stage advancing to the Tailteann Cup quarter-finals.

The eight losers of the ties will face off in Round 2B, after which the four losers of those ties will exit the championship.

The four winners of the Round 2B ties will face the four losers of the Round 2A ties, the winners of those

ties advancing to the quarter-finals. Tailteann Cup Round 1: Fermanagh vs Longford Laois vs Wicklow Clare vs Offaly Carlow vs Antrim Wexford vs Limerick Down/Westmeath/Cavan vs Leitrim Sligo vs Tipperary Waterford vs London

The majority of the Round 1 fixtures will be played on the weekend of May 9th/10th. However, any games involving a team knocked out of their provincial championship on the weekend of May 2nd/3rd will take place on the weekend of May 16th/17th.

MUNSTER SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI-FINAL

Clare manager, Paul Madden

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Brian McNamara in action with Offaly’s Aaron Leavy during the 2025 National Football League.

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Tristan targets return to Croke Park for Clare’s Tailteann Cup bid

by Páraic McMahon

CLARE are targeting a return to Croke Park as they bid to prepare for a first-ever Tailteann Cup campaign.

Goalkeeper Tristan O’Callaghan has excelled in Croke Park already this year, delivering a man of the match display in the Sigerson Cup final helping the University of Limerick win the title for the first time. He’s now determined for Clare’s footballers to get to Jones Rd as they find themselves competing in the Tailteann Cup and not the All-Ireland series.

O’Callaghan told The Clare Echo, “We’re going to try set a marker and target going as far as we can in it, we know as a group we want to get back to Croke Park, that is where every player wants to play, our ambition is to play there, we will strive towards that and we will take every game as it comes, there’s a lot of good teams in the Tailteann so we will take it one game at a time”.

Stephen Ryan’s unavailability led to the St Breckan’s man regaining the number one jersey for Clare’s 2-19 1-15 Munster semi-final loss to Kerry. “It was a tough battle throughout, it shows we can nearly put it up to the best in the country at the moment, once we gel as a team we’re quite good, a lot of patches of that was very good, there’s a few things to work on over the next few weeks and we’ll be back and hopefully go on a bit of a run in the Tailteann Cup and see how it goes, it is a pity today wasn’t our day but we go again,” he

STORY OF THE GAME

MUNSTER MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP PHASE 2 ROUND 1

Cork 4-25

Clare 0-12

Venue: Clarecastle

Referee: Eoghan Ó Muirchearthaigh (Kerry)

CORK:

Frees for: 11 (5/6)

Wides: 6 (4/2)

Spread of scorers: 11

Scores from play: 4-23

Top scorer: Tom Whooley (1-6)

Bookings: N/A

Own kickouts won: 13/15 (87%)

CLARE:

Frees for: 15 (6/9)

Wides: 3 (2/1)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 0-8

Top scorer: Liam Keane (0-5, 4f)

Bookings: N/A

Own kickouts won: 12/34 (35%)

reflected of the defeat.

After falling three points down inside the opening four minutes, Tristan felt Clare grew into the game. “We did a lot of things right, they got three on the bounce in the first half then we settled their purple patch and got into the rhythm of the game, one or two things didn’t go our way which is natural and that happens in games, we went in at half time and we hit reset, we knew what we had to do. We got it back to five points if not four, if you get a turnover and kick another score then there’s only a goal in it and it is anyone’s game”.

At the beginning of the second half, Clare struggled to win their own ball and conceded 2-1 without reply. “They are the margins, we have to go back to the drawing board and see why we couldn’t win those balls or where it didn’t go right. We will work at it, we’ve a lot of good lads, we’ve a great management behind us and a lot of good lads in that dressing room who really care about Clare football, we showed it for parts today. We’re obviously very disappointed but we have to move it again”.

Getting back between the posts for his county had been an aim of the Doolin netminder this season. “When you’re playing you just want to play football and that is the main goal, it is a privilege to play with your club and your county, I love it as much as anyone else, we’re all here because we love Clare and we love Clare football and we love a lot of people in it”.

Clare turn attention Daryl Darcy decider following Cork collapse

by Gearóid Howley

CLARE MINOR football manager Joe Hayes felt his side were severely punished for their struggles around the middle-third against Cork.

On Monday, Clare fell to a 25-point trouncing against a Cork side that brought an intensity to Clarecastle that the Banner were yet to come up against in this campaign.

Cork brought a pace and power which blew Clare away. “We’d a small bit of work done on them, they obviously played the Leinster League and won it. There was a couple of things there we just didn’t have answers for. Their pace, their power, we were getting destroyed on kickouts, we tried short kickouts, every time we gave away the ball they punished us. What I will say about our lads is I don’t think anyone dropped the head, I do think they kept fighting till the very end. It’s a tough one to take, and it hurts me to say it, but that’s probably just the level we’re at, at the moment, we’re not at that level, we want to be and we’re trying our best to close the gap,” Hayes told The Clare Echo

He continued, “Your own kickout is your primary possession and in fairness to Conor [Griffin], I felt he was hitting the areas we needed to hit, I just thought we were very poor on the break. Conor’s young and he’s underage again next year, I thought he played quite well, he made some very good saves and kept us in it early doors, and again I felt he was hitting his spots, he was hitting where we asked him to hit, his short ones were good. I just felt once the ball went to the ground we were second to every one of them, it’s the breaks more than the kickouts I was disappointed with. I’m not disappointed with our kickouts at all, but the Cork kickouts were excellent, their goalie had a wand of a left leg.”

Clare make the lengthy trip to Lemybrien to take on Waterford next Monday, in a game

which will coincide as the Phase 1 decider.

“We’ve seven days to get ready for a Daryl Darcy final. There is huge significance in that game, there’s a cup at play. Waterford have had an outstanding year to this point and it’s down there so we’re just going to have to get the bodies going again and have a cut at it, and we’ve only a couple of days to do that”. When asked if silverware being on the line would help to lift his panel after such a heavy defeat, the ex Clare goalkeeper was hopeful that will be the case. “It should be, I hope it will be. It’s a final, they’ve beaten us already. That should hopefully help get them up for the fight again, and it possibly, depending on the result in the last game, will have significance on what phase of the All-Ireland we go into.

“They’re all factors we have to look at, but I suppose the main factor we’ve to look at is these lads are only 16-17 years of age and we’re trying to introduce them to all the levels of inter-county football. I don’t think that group have ever met that pace yet, whether it’s club, or schools, or anything and it’s possibly an eye-opener for them,” he added.

Clare were without three of their St Breckan’s contingent for the Cork clash due to a Transition Year holiday, while Tristan O’Loughlin opted to stay at home to represent the county before jetting off to join his classmates on Tuesday morning. “I want to stress as well, I’ve no issue with the boys that went, none whatsoever. They’re young, it’s a once in a lifetime trip, they were just told to make a decision, and whatever they wanted to do would be supported. It won’t be held against them in terms of selection for next week, obviously some lads came in and did well today so they might have to fight to get their space back. I wish them well, they trained Thursday, they trained Saturday morning, they were in good form.

“Tristan made the decision to stay, I thought he played quite well. You know Tristan, you know what you get with him, he never ever downed tools. I must also mention Odhran McMahon from Shannon Gaels, he decided to stay home from a family holiday as well. Again, he was told if he wanted to go there was no issue. They’re young lads, I don’t think we should be putting pressure on young lads like that. They were just told to make a decision and whatever they do there’s no problem. Tristan decided to stay, he’s flying out in the morning, he’s home Wednesday and he’ll be back training Thursday, so fair play to him, I take my hat off to him,” he concluded.

Joe Hayes Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Tristan O’Callaghan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Clare’s Tadhg Bane meets a high challenge from Donncha O’Mahony Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Tulla Utd trying to take back crown of Cup champions

by Seamus Hayes

TULLA UTD are bidding to win the CDSL Ladies Cup final for the first time since 2023.

Ongoing work at underage level within the club is reaping the rewards for Tulla Utd’s junior sides for both men and women.

Captain Emma Deegan speaking ahead of Saturday’s Cup final versus Moher Celtic said that Tulla “has a strong ladies section and the club devotes a lot of time to the development of the game at underage level. Most of the girls that make up our panel for this week’s cup final have come through that underage programme”.

Having claimed cup honours in 2023, Tulla won the Shield last season. They are a close knit group drawn from Tulla and neighbouring areas of Feakle, Quin, Crusheen and Roslevan.

“Of course we would love to win the title and it would be a great reward for the group who have given a great commitment all season”, according to Emma.

Winning the title would surely spark off great celebrations for the Perrill family. Team manager is Colm Perrill and his daughter Emily is a member of the team. Colm’s brother Kevin is the team coach and his daughters Caoilshionn and Siomhra are members of the side

Other payers in the side include goalkeeper Ava O’Donovan, Caoimhe Grace, Ruth O’Neill while team captain Emma is also a key member of the side. “A lot of the payers have come through the underage section. This is a young team with a number still eligible for the under 18 grade. There is a strong emphasis on developing the game at underage level in the club”, team captain Emma told The Clare Echo.

“There is good support for the team and we expect to have a big following at Saturdays final. We are up against a good side who are determined to retain the title while we are keen to bring the cup back to Tulla. It should be a good final”, concluded Emma.

Moher

Celtic

by Seamus Hayes MOHER CELTIC put their title as CDSL Ladies Cup champions on the line this weekend when they face off with Tulla Utd in the Cup final.

Heading into the Clare ladies soccer cup final on Saturday (kick off 4pm. at Frank Healy park) Blaithnaid Reynolds captain of title holders Moher Celtic acknowledges that while her side will be ranked as favourites, they are expecting a really stiff test from Tulla United.

Last season in their first fielding a side, Moher Celt-

ic won the Ladies Cup final with Aoife Fitzpatrick scoring the winning goal from a free-kick as they defeated Hermitage FC 2-1.

Saturday’s finalists have met twice in the league this season with the North Clare outfit who are managed by Davy Commane and Cohan Phillipson winning on both occasions.

looking for another moment in history with bid for back to back Cup wins

Moher draw their players “mainly from the local area of Liscannor, Lahinch and Ennistymon and there is a big overlap with Liscannor ladies football team,” she explained.

Almost all of last year’s title winning squad are still available to the side that beat Ennis Dons 4-0 in the semi-final.

The first meeting of the cup finalists in the league was, according to the Moher captain “our best performance of the season. We won that one 3-1”.

“One of the new players in the team this year is Natia Nakvetauri from Georgia. She is living locally and has been an excellent addition to the team. She has a lot of experience of playing the game”, Blathnaid noted.

Team member Sharon Carney will celebrate her 18th birthday this weekend.

“All involved with the team would love to win the title to start off the celebrations for her,” the captain side.

Another key member of the side is Emily McDonagh the team’s goalkeeper.

“Tulla United are a long established club and a very good side. As cup holders and having beaten them in the league may see us carry the favourites tag but we know that we will face a very strong challenge on Saturday”, the Moher Celtic captain concluded.

The latest meeting of Moher and Tulla was just last weekend when Moher won 2-1. “Both sides were missing players on Sunday, neither prepared to give anything away ahead of the cup decider,” she said, a view shared by Tulla captain Emma Deegan.

Clare greyhounds dominate in Galway

by Michael Maher

CLARE greyhounds dominated the weekend action in Galway with wins for owners from Kilkee, Tulla. Newmarket-on-Fergus, Cree and Cratloe.

The concluding A2 graded 525 yards contest was the top graded event on Friday nights card at Galway Greyhound Stadium. Clonfeigh Jetty was best away in the S6 graded fourth contest with Blaze Buck and Glasheen Model both giving chase to the leading pair as they raced towards the opening bend. As the bend loomed, the Brendan Browne of Kilkee owned Glasheen Model made rapid progress on the outside of the trio and with Blaze Buck running off the rails Glasheen Model found herself three lengths clear turning for home. Striding out well at the head of affairs the daughter of Dromana Bucko and Glasheen Covid recorded her second career success by two lengths form Blaze Buck in 19.26.

In race five, the Pat Kelly owned Mollys Ambition never saw another rival in this A8 graded contest as she recorded her maiden success by making all from her trap six berth although the Donie Duggan of Tulla trained daughter of Good Cody and Droopys Freda was all out to see

off the challenge of Drimeen Jetty by a neck at the line in 29.75. Very smartly into her stride Mollys Ambition showed good early pace to lead Drimeen Jetty and Grangeview Biddy by over two lengths rounding the opening bend. Racing along the back the lead grew to three lengths but from the home bend the winner was searching for the line which just arrived in time to the delight of connections.

As the traps rose for the A7 graded affair Paradise Honk and Ethans Choice were both away well with The Honk-Army Syndicate of Newmarket-on-Fergus owned Paradise Honk holding a narrow advantage as they negotiated the opening bend. Racing down the far side Paradise Honk continued to show the way to Ethans Choice as Gortkelly Leo and Upya Boyo Gar both began to close on the leading pair. Exiting the back straight though Paradise Honk trained by Sean Meade of Miltown Malbay began to turn the screw and the son of McInerney and Paradise Brook eased home six lengths clear of Gortkelly Leo in 29.28. Saturday night’s Galway card featured the semi-finals of The Irish Retired Greyhound Trust A4 525 Yards Stake with the concluding A3 graded 525 yards contest the top graded

event on the card.

As the traps rose for the feature event Notsobadnow came away well towards the inner and he led the charge towards the opening bend from Brickhill Patsy with Ryadar Rocket in third place as they approached the turn. Rounding the bend Clare natives John Collins and Albert Long owned Brickhill Patsy tracked superbly as she switched inside the leader to claim the rails berth turning down the back straight. Racing down the back, Brickhill Patsy led Notsobadnow by three parts of a length but as they raced towards the three quarter mark Brickhill Patsy set sail for home. Tracking well out of the back the daughter of Grangeview Ten and Twentylittletoes was now in command of proceedings as she raced clear to defeat Rydar Rocket by three lengths at the line in a best of the night 28.87.

In the second semi-final of the IRGT A4 525 Stake Claudegreengrass was away best and he led Confused Kiely and Highview Tom on the run towards the opening bend. At the bend Confused Kiely moved though on the leaders inner and getting the better of the argument taking the turn Confused Kiely turned down the back straight two lengths to the good over Portumna Syd on the out-

side. Racing towards the end of the back straight Portumna Syd began to close on the leader but the Gerry Manley of Cratloe owned Confused Kiely (Magical Bale and Lavan Fairy) in teak tough and he prevailed by a length at the line in 29.29.

Racing towards the opening bend in the A5 graded 525 yards contest Skirk Bud showed pace in the centre of the track to lead from Effernogue Bush with Killanin Bono also prominent on the wide outside as they rounded the bend. Turning down the back Effernogue Bush switched inside the pace setting Skirk Bud to deliver a challenge but the door was firmly shut forcing the Frank Casey of Newmarket-on-Fergus owned runner to switch back to the outside racing past halfway. At the third bend, Effernogue Bush struck the front on the outside and quickly asserting the son of Burgess Bucks and Ballymac Helena scored by two lengths from Skirk Bud in 29.40.

Having met trouble in three of her last four outings the Maria Browne of Cree owned Burnpark Class enjoyed a welcome change of fortune in the A5 graded 525 yards contest leading close home to deny the pace setting Burkos Breeze by half a length in 29.48. Burkos Breeze was away smartly on the wide outside and led

from Hanover Luna and Alva Chase on the run towards the opening bend. Racing down the back Burkos Breeze led her rivals by over two lengths as Burnpark Class moved into four place passing halfway. From the third bend though Burnpark Class began to close with every stride out wide and sweeping down the outside in the home straight the daughter of Grangeview Ten and Burnpark Willow scored for the fifth time in her career.

The outcome of this A4 graded 525 yards contest was effectively settled at trap rise as once the lids rose the Michael Malone of Liscannor owned Substance was away like the wind and racing towards the opening bend she led her rivals headed by Five Alley Mike by two lengths. Rounding the bend the daughter of Slippery Robert and Be Slow Teresa tracked pretty well and as she raced towards the halfway mark her advantage had grown to five lengths over her rivals. Clear exiting the back straight Substance was home for all money as she routed her rivals by upwards of seven and a half lengths at the line in 29.14.

Tulla Utd’s Emma Deegan Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Moher Celtic captain Blathnaid Reynolds Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Shannon prepares for Dr William Flynn ProAm & East Clare records two hole in ones

by

SHANNON GOLF Club will welcome the very best Irish Golf Professionals for the Dr. William Flynn Pro Am next Thursday (May 7th).

This prestigious competition began in 1996 by founding member Dr William Flynn and it is always a very special day at the club. The Pros compete for the title and the Waterford Crystal Trophy with a team of three amateurs.

The club is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year and this is one of a number of events which form part of the celebrations

Meanwhile the Diageo sponsored Paddy Carroll medal was played for last weekend when Eoin Hoctor (18) emerged with the honours with 69. He won on a countback from Keith Hyland (10) with third place filled by Aaron McGuane (13) who also returned 69.

Greg Moloney (9) was fourth with 70 followed by Damian McGuane (15), also with 70 and Josh Lindsay (8) with 71. Niall Fitzgerald (+3) won the gross with 71.

Category A was won by Pat McHugh (6) with 72 from Larry Egan (7), also with 72.

John Collins (9) won category B with 71 from Fergus McGrath (15) with 72 while category 3 was won by John Spillane (23) with 71 from Niall Mallon (20) also with 71.

The winner of the weekly men’s singles competition was Thomas Costigan (20) with 37 points. Second was Peter Collins (20) with 36 points with third place filled by Alan McCoy (14) also with 36 points. Colm Hanley (scratch) won the gross with 34 points.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB:

The men’s competition at Dromoland Castle at

the weekend was 18 hole foursomes which was won by Niall Woods and Damien Lafferty with 41 points. They won on a countback from Cyril O’Neill and Robert Bailey with third place filled by Gavin O’Reilly and Michael Reen with 36 points.

The winner of the 9 hole stableford competition was Shane Collins with 20 points from Tommy Lee with a similar score with Alan Henstock in third place with 19 points.

The 18 hole ladies singles stableford competition was won by Dorothea Madden with 41 points from Suzanne McConway with 39 points with third place filled by Dorothy Brennan with 36 points.

Jo Linnane with 20 points won the ladies 9 hole competition from Mary Rogers with 19 points and Katrina O’Neill, also with 19 points.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB:

Brian Conway (7) won the Pat Geaney open men’s singles at Kilrush at the weekend with 41 points.

He was two ahead of Michael Miniter (10) with Pat Brennan (10), also with 39 points in third place.

Tom Browne won the gross while the category winners were Declan Kearns with 37 points, David Abbott with 35 points and Paul Keane with 37 points.

Brendan Carrig with 25 points won the front 9 while Finbarr McMahon won the back 9 with 19 points.

SPANISH POINT GOLF CLUB:

There was a great contest for the ladies 18 hole v par competition at Spanish Point last week where the leading three all tied requiring a countback to determine placings.

Karen Quinn won from Helen McGrath with Eimear

Johnston in third place.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB:

The Abbey cup qualifier, a stroke competition for men, took place at Ennis last week with the top sixteen qualifying for matchplay.

The leading qualifier was Padraig Cusack (18) with 60. He was followed by Dominic O’Connor (18) with 65, Flan Downes (12) with 65, John A. Byrne (13) with 66, Mark O’Brien (19), Damian Pilkington (13), Senan Ryan (11), John Murphy (25), Flan Glynn (19), John McInerney (6) each with 67, Darragh Murphy (5), Colman O’Connor (14), Ian Myatt (9), Jim Casey (21), Dean Lee (21) all with 68 and Michael Irwin (27) with 69.

Tuesday’s senior ladies scramble was won by Jackie Quinlan, Claire Kennelly, Brid Cunnighan and Carmel Verling (50.3) from Irene Jordan, Kathleen Pyne and Josephine Tone (53.14). In third place were Anne Fealy, Margaret Flanagan and Therese Lillis (54.42) followed by Marie Connolly, Mary Kearns, Marina Varden and Ada McMahon (56).

In the ladies 17 hole medal stroke competition the winner of the silver section was Rose Enright (20) with 72 nett from Ann A. Gallery (12) with 74 nett. The bronze winner was Cora Kerins (33) with 70 nett from Mary Curley (57) with 72 nett

The overall winner in the ladies 8 hole competition was Cora Kerins (17) with 16 points followed by Nora McLaughlin (21) with 15 points. Division 1 was won by Carmel Verling (12) with 14 points, division 2 by Mary Woulfe (17) with 15 points and division 3 by Bernadette McAleer (21) with 15 points.

The winner of the Friday open singles was Vivienne Lawless (44) with 36 points from William Donnellan (23) also 36 points with third spot

filled by Barry Larkin (11) with 34 points.

The senior men’s competition was won by John Gavin, Don Ryan, Jimmy Kearns and Pat Garry with 68 points. They won by one from Pat G McInerney, Martin Coffey, Neil Cremin and Michael Cusack with 67 points. In third spot with 65 points were John Nevin, Michael Ball, Matt Flynn and George Power followed by Eamonn Corry, Tom Fox, Tim Kelly and Frank Cullinan also with 65 points.

Tony Lawler, Gerry Scanlan, Tommy Heath and Michael Butler were fifth with 63 points followed by Richard O Connell, Pat P McInerney, Ger O Brien and Eugene Quinn with 63 points, Johnny Kearse, Noel Pilkington, Terry Hughes and Ferdie O Donoghue with 62 points with eighth position filled by Noel Pyne, Ger Hanrahan, Brian Tuohy and Michael Clancy with 61 points. EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB:

Two club members recorded holes in one this week. Joan Crotty aced the 8th while Enda Quinlan did likewise on the 17th.

In last week’s ladies 18 hole stroke medal competition the overall winner was Rachel O’Halloran (33) with 66 nett. The category winners were Noreen Doyle (21) with 70 nett, Ursula Hogan (29) with 70 nett and Deirdre Tuohy (37) with 73 nett.

The ladies Wednesday competition.was won by Breda Reid, Mary Stritch, Mary Hogan and Phil Burke from Margaret Lynch, Mary Jo Minogue and Amanda Dalton with third place filled by Siobhan Mulcahy, Margaret Egan and Marie A. Kelly.

Dominic Stuart (21) won the men’s April medal competition with 65 from Kevin Scully (13) with 66 with Ger Lenihan (24)

in third spot with 67. The gross was won by Michael Rochford (5) with 73.

In the men’s weekend stableford competition the winner was Pat Duggan (22) with 42 points from Batt Skehan (15) with 38 points.

William O’Brien (4) won the gross with 77.

Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Danny Minogue, Seamus O’ Dwyer and Michael Heffernan from Willie Roche, John Nihill and Chris Davis with third spot filled by Nick Obolewicz, Seamus Whelan and Kieran McNamara.

Friday’s mixed scramble was won by Terry Coughlan, Breda O’Loghlin and Margaret MacNamara from Siobhan Mulcahy, Ailbe McDonnell and Sean Jones. In third place were Pat McNamara, Jackie McHugh and Mary Farrell.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Pat O’Brien (16) won the weekend’s cub singes at Woodstock with an impressive 47 points. Ross Darmody (3)

Ennis hosts first North Munster Open

THE inaugural North Munster Open Singles tournament will take place in Ennis this weekend, welcoming almost 150 competitors from across Ireland. Five state-of-the-art, all-weather floodlit courts at Ennis Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club (ELT&BC) will host the prestigious North Munster Senior Tour 200 Singles Open starting this Thursday (April 30).

Sponsored by Ennis & Limerick Orthodontic Practice, the Tour 200 event sanctioned by Tennis Ireland marks a new cornerstone of the regional tennis calendar, drawing talent from across the country to compete for ranking points.

The North Munster Singles Open is the first adult singles-only event of the calendar in North Munster and the only such event in County Clare, with entrants across all categories, ranging from the elite Level 1 to the burgeoning talents in Level 7.

The club is riding high on the momentum of recent successes at the South of Ireland Masters where there were category wins for Ennis’s Cíarán O’Brien and Dhanya Pillai, and David Flanagan & Gemma Hassett.

The club will also host a fun “onepoint slam” tournament on Monday with funds raised going towards Cahercalla Community Hospice. Tournament co-director Dervilla

Moloney said, “We have almost 150 competitors coming from Munster, Connacht and Leinster, there are amazing prizes for the winners and we are delighted to be running a fundraiser for Cahercalla Community Hospice on Finals Day. We look forward to welcoming everyone over the weekend.”

Dr Jeeves Kochhar of Ennis & Limerick Orthodontic Practice, said, “I’m thrilled and delighted to sponsor the North Munster Singles Open.”

Founded in 1887 and with 700 members, the Ennis Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club is one of the oldest and most atmospheric sporting venues in County Clare, located in a

scenic riverside area near the town centre.

The Singles Open, which runs through May 4, serves as the perfect appetizer for a packed summer schedule. Tennis enthusiasts are already marking their calendars for the Eye Candy Opticians Ennis National Tour Mixed Open, set to take place in July.

For those looking to catch the action, play typically begins in the late afternoons during the weekend, with a full schedule of finals slated for the Bank Holiday Monday.

Dervilla Moloney and Dr Jeeves

won the gross with 35 points.

The category winners were Gerry Kelly (8) with 42 points, Colin Higgins (16) with 45 points and Eugene Killeen (20) with 43 points.

Winner in the 2’s competition was Frank Landy (6th hole). There will be another club singles this Bank holiday weekend.

On Bank holiday Monday the competition will be a Florida scramble, a team of four competition. This is a team of 4 straight scramble (play preferred ball everywhere), however the player whose ball has been chosen must sit out the next shot (including putting)

GORT GOLF CLUB:

The ladies competition at Gort at the weekend was the subscription stakes sponsored by Kelly Construction.

The winner of the 18 hole stroke competition was Aileen Walsh (36) with 67 from Tracey Brennan (29), also with 67. Hannah McInerney (6) with 69 was third followed by Marion Mulvey Fahey (34) with 72.

Aileen Walsh (38) with 40 points was also the winner of the Friday open singles from Fran O’Reilly (32) with 37 points.

FANNY O’DEAS SOCIETY: Fanny O’Dea’s golf society (Lissycasey) members played for Noel Haier’s Presidents prize at Gort last week when there was a big entry for the Fanny O’Deas sponsored outing.

Liam Kelly with 39 points emerged as the winner from TJ Monahan with 37 points. The category winners were Tony McMahon, Pat Delap and Alan Carmody. Next outing will be on Saturday May 23 to Lahinch.

Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

Joan Crotty

ANNIVERSARY

† Hester, Joe

Ballynacally, Ennis, Co Clare (2ndAnnivesary)

As we approach May Day

we pray for Joe Hester, Ballynacally who died on May 1st, 2024.

We give thanks for his life, lived with faith, courage and good deeds.

Leaba I measc na naomh go raibh aige.

Loved and remembered always by Mary, Máire Clare & their families.

Prayer

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour. (Mention Favour) Take it and place it within Your own broken heart Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer for 3 times a day for 3 days and favour will be grateful. Promise publication, never known ot fail

N.C.C

THREE DAY NOVENA

Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days

Oh, most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven.

Oh, Blessed Mother of the Son of God; Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity.

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

Oh, Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in my necessity. (Mention your request here) There are none that can withstand your power.

Oh, Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (say three times).

Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands. (say three times). Amen

J.F.C

PLANNING

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYFAUDEEN, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Anne O’Grady intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to create a new entrance onto the public road to access her existing dwelling, create a new agriculture entrance onto public road and to retain the existing site boundary around her dwelling granted under planning permission number P97625 at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, New Road, Ennis, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the planning authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

TULLYGARVAN WEST, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE, V95 X9T1

Take notice that Fiona and Steve Arkell intend to apply for permission to extend and renovate the existing farmhouse & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A

submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

BALLAGHALINE, DOOLIN, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Owen Boyden intends to apply for permission for the change of use of the old Toilet Block to a Sauna Room, storage and office area, permission to carry out alterations to the building & all other associated site and ancillary works at the above address. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in relation to this application and will be included with the plans and documents submitted.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FEENAGH (MOLONEY)

TLD. SIXMILEBRIDGE CO. CLARE, V95 FX49

Take Notice that I Deirdre Russell intend to apply to Clare County Council For

THANKSGIVING

Novena to St Clare Ask St Clare for 3 favours: 1 business, 2 impossible. Say 9 Hail Marys for 9 days with a lighted candle. Pray whether you believe it or not, publish on the 9th day. May the Sacred Heart of Jesus be praised, adored, glorified and loved, today and every day throughout the world, forever and ever, Amen. Your request will be granted no matter how impossible it may seem. Powerful Novena.

E.H

Permission for the demolition of existing dwelling affected by defective concrete blocks and For Permission for the construction of a replacement storey & half style dwelling including ancillary site works at above address. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co.Clare during it’s public opening hours. A submission or Observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CRAGLEAGH, BUSHYPARK, ENNIS, CO CLARE

Take notice that Billy O’Sullivan intends to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct an extension to the side of an existing derelict dwelling house along with alterations/renovations to the existing house, to construct a domestic garage, a new entrance and a new wastewater treatment system along with ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CAHERAPHUCA, CRUSHEEN, CO. CLARE

Take notice that David Kearney & Shauna Thornton intend to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a wastewater treatment system and ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL BALLYVELAGHAN, NEW QUAY, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Michael Kiely, Architectural Design & Planning, Kilbraney, Gusserane, New Ross, Co. Wexford 087

6743378. intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of John & Lorna Stewart for planning permission for the following:-

(A) To renovate and refurbish the existing dwelling to include removal of the front porch, removal of the attached cowshed, removal of the existing roof structure and construct a new roof structure.

(B) To construct extensions and alterations to the existing dwelling suitable for use as a family dwelling.

(C) Discontinuation of the existing sub-standard foul treatment system and construction of a new wastewater treatment system and a soil polishing filter to serve the proposed extended dwelling.

(D) All associated and ancillary site works to include a new vehicular entrance, connection to the existing public watermains and to retain and protect the existing stone boundary walls All at the above address.

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

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL,

GLEBE HOUSE, LEAGARD SOUTH, SPANISH POINT, CO. CLARE. V95 A4A7

Take notice that M. & A. Cotter intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to alter the planning permission drawings as granted under P23/60192 at the above address. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

WORD SEARCH

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The Clare Echo Quiz

In what year was Clare Abbey established?

What did Knox’s Pub function as before becoming a pub? Grocery shop Bakery Restaurant

Which stage and screen actress was raised in Ennis and is a twotime Olivier Award winner?

Kelly Gough

Denise Gough

Clare Dunne

How many years did it take Clare to win their second All-Ireland title in 1995?

How long has Shoe Rack been open for?

What film was filmed almost completely in County Clare? Guns in the Heather Sing Street Brooklyn

What school is recorded to be the oldest school in Ennis? Coláiste Muire

Ennis Community College St. Flannan’s College

In what year was Ennis first named Ireland’s Tidiest Town? 2005 2007 2020

In what year was the Queens Hotel established? 1867 1886 1890

How many barber shops are located on O’Connell Street? 6 4 10

By Lena Kandler

Spot the Difference

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

ANSWERS

Clare minor hurling coach, Kevin McNamara and coach Ger O’Connell. Photograph: Ruth Griffin.