Which Connemara Candidate Will Work For You? As individuals and communities across the length and breadth of the country anticipate the approaching local elections on June 5th, the Connemara Electoral Area is shaping up to decide whether our existing County Councillors will be kept in their seats, or be replaced by some new faces. As ever, speculation and predictions are the order of business, but it will be Saturday June 6th or possibly the early hours of Sunday June 7th when the profile of the newly elected local representatives will begin to emerge. The Connemara region has a population of over 36,000 people, and is represented on Galway County Council by seven members of a total of thirty. Recession and the economic downturn are the words on everyone’s lips and minds these days, but many wonder if Connemara ever really felt the benefits of the Celtic Tiger era in the same way as other areas of the country. The people of Connemara will expect the Councillors they elect to work hard in their positions. As an increasingly disgruntled Connemara public, disillusioned by many broken promises and forgotten assurances, open their doors to canvassers over the next month, the question “Why should I vote for you?” may be asked more pointedly and directly than in recent years. The poor state of Connemara infrastructure – schools, roads, water and sewerage – has the people of Connemara lamenting and protesting with increased fervour. Candidates seeking re-election have tough questions to answer, while those seeking to unseat them will need to impress. The Connemara View contacted all thirteen candidates standing for election in Connemara in 2009 and invited them to answer three questions which are particularly pertinent to Connemara. Eleven of the thirteen responded, which has given them, as candidates, the opportunity to express themselves to you, the voter. The answers can be read on pages four and five. The choice is yours. Make your voice heard, and your vote count in the 2009 Connemara Local Elections. Catherine Pryce
Connemara Local Election Candidates 2009 Left - Top to bottom: The Current Connemara Councillors - Josie Conneely, Fianna Fail; Sean Kyne, Fine Gael; Connie Ni Fhatharta, Fianna Fail; Seosamh O Cuaig, Independent; Sean O Tuairisg, Fianna Fail; Seamus Walsh, Fianna Fail; Thomas Welby, Independent. Right - Top to Bottom: The Aspiring Connemara Councillors - Kenneth Coyne, Sinn Fein; Eileen Mannion, Fine Gael; Louise O’Connor, Fianna Fail; Tomas O Curraoin, Republican Sinn Fein; Trevor O Clochartaigh, Sinn Fein; Seosamh O Laoi, Fine Gael.
In The View
Arts Festivals Highlight May Event Schedule See Inishbofin and Bog Week Event Highlights on Page 19.
Connemara Candidates Respond ...Page 4 & 5 Mannion’s AFC To Finals ...Page 10 Local Rugby Player Tiernan O’Halloran Scores in Italy (photo right) ...Page 11 The Budget Blues...Page 27 Major Cleanups...Page 31 Free Community Newspaper
REGIONAL
Omey Island Tragedy
On April 21st the village of Claddaghduff and indeed the entire area of North West Connemara was devastated by the tragic loss at sea of Feichín Mulkerrin and Tony Coohill, two young men with families, both very well known and liked in the area. Following this tragedy and as a result of a huge outpouring of goodwill and support for both families by neighbours, friends and the wider community, a local fundraising group has been setup under the umbrella of the Cleggan Claddaghduff Community Council. A Benefit Night will take place on Friday, July 3rd in the Clifden Station House Hotel. Tickets are on sale now and will be sold door-to-door in the North West Connemara area. If you would like to donate to the fund the following bank accounts have been set up: Account Name: Omey Island Tragedy Fund. Bank of Ireland, Clifden: Account Number 1-23589276. Sort Code: 90-37-79. AIB, Clifden: Account Number 06780012. Sort Code: 93-73-98
Page 2
On behalf of the people of Cleggan Claddaghduff, we would like to express our deepest sympathies to Tony’s wife Marie and their two young sons John and Ciarán, to Tony’s parents Theresa and Paddy and to the entire Coohill family. Also to Feichín’s wife Monica and their children Patrick, Sinéad, Susan, Liam, Erin & Oisín, their grandchildren, Annabelle, Lorcan, Jordan, Shannon, John and Tara and all of the Mulkerrin family. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha dílse. Cleggan Claddaghduff Community Council
FORUM Launch LEADER FORUM Connemara Ltd. is currently in the process of launching the new LEADER Programme, 2007-2013 for the nonGaeltacht Connemara region, now with the inclusion of the Oughterard and Roscahill areas. The aim of LEADER is to encourage and help rural people to think about the longer-term potential of their area. It seeks to encourage the implementation of linked, high quality, original proposals for sustainable development, designed to experiment with new ways of enhancing the natural and cultural environment, reinforcing the economic environment in order to contribute to job creation, and improving the organisational abilities of communities. FORUM is confident in the imagination, drive and capacity of the Connemara community to maximise the opportunities being afforded to them through the new LEADER Programme and have devised a strategy and action plan to assist with delivery of the programme over the next six years. A total of €9.7 million has been awarded to FORUM to implement the programme between 2008 and 2014. The first step in determin-
ing whether your idea is something suitable for the LEADER programme is to contact the FORUM office for an Expression of Interest form. This will help ascertain if your idea is something that can be taken further. For more information on FORUM and the LEADER programme go to www.forumconnemara.ie or call Rural Development Officers Joe Conaty or Karen Mannion on (095) 41116. Also see FORUM advertisement on Page 5 for more details.
Community School Initiative C.S.I.:Clifden is campaigning and fundraising in an effort to raise the profile and priority of the school building project with the local community and principally the Department of Education and Science. The current school building, built in the early 70s to accommodate c. 250 students, now educates an average of 420 students a year. Despite the very best efforts of staff to maintain the school to a high standard of both upkeep and education, much essential funding is spent annually on the maintenance of a building that, in our opinion, is not fit for purpose. Ironically, the school building, just in design terms, falls way short of the Department’s own criteria for specifying new schools. C.S.I.:Clifden is an action group, formed to raise awareness and maintain the momentum of the huge amount of work done over the last 10 years by the Principal, Staff and parents of students at the Community School in Clifden. Despite countless promises of progression to the next stage, the project currently stands in limbo and as recently as last Tuesday 28th April, Senator Fidelma Healy Eames was told that ‘nothing was scheduled for the foreseeable future’. We are urging parents of both current students and future students to come and see the condition of the building our children are currently being educated in, by attending our regular open meetings. It takes a great deal of time and money, for the staff at the school to maintain the building, time and money that should be spent on educating our children and unfortunately, conditions will only worsen. C.S.I.:Clifden believe that this is unacceptable and that the government is failing not just those children who are currently at the school, but those from the 14 feeder schools across Connemara who will be attending Clifden Community School in the coming years. To date C.S.I.:Clifden have met with Counsellor Josie Conneely, Minister Eamon O’Cuiv and Galway West TD Pádraic McCormack, expressing our displeasure as a community and asking for specific answers to key questions
May 2009
regarding the new school project. There has been genuine surprise by these elected representatives at the numbers attending the regular open meetings and in fact “strength in numbers” is our greatest asset, as it will prove that the people of Connemara will no longer be taken for granted and that we will no longer take “No” for answer. Therefore it is essential that we encourage as many people as possible to our open meetings. C.S.I.:Clifden currently have a delegation organised to meet with Batt O’Keeffe in the Dail on May 28th, an application has been made to the Galway Film Project to make a visual statement to raise awareness of conditions in the school, a website is being prepared with the support of The Connemara View and a concerted effort is being made to raise the school building project within the criteria stipulated by the Department, in order to speed up the whole process. Everything that C.S.I.:Clifden is doing to raise awareness, maintain momentum and ultimately get a new, “fit for purpose” school built for the community, will cost money; consequently, fundraising is vital. The Cake Sale that took place on May 3rd marked the first fundraising event of this campaign. Our next fundraising event will be bag packing in Supervalu, Clifden in mid May. Also, there are participants taking part in the Flora Mini Marathon in June who are doing the run in aid of CSI:Clifden. The more the merrier! Petition sheets are also in all shops and public places throughout Connemara. If you would like to know any more about what we are doing please come along to our open public meetings that are advertised regularly and lend your support to a campaign that will provide for the education of the children of our community for generations to come. More details will be displayed at www.connemaraview.com/csiclifden. C.S.I. Clifden
Miscarriage of Justice There has been a great deal of extensive and varied national and international media coverage in recent weeks of the wrongful conviction of Mr. Michael Fechin Hannon of Claddaghduff of a sexual assault and assault on Ms. Una Hardester, formerly of Claddaghduff and now living in the U.S. In 1999, Mr. Hannon was convicted of sexual assault and given a suspended four-year sentence. Ms. Hardester returned to Galway in 2006 to confess to Gardai that she had fabricated the entire story. On Monday April 27th the Court of Criminal Appeal granted a certification stating that a miscarriage of justice had taken place. Mr. Hannon always maintained his innocence throughout the process which has now raised widespread media analysis and speculation on the manner in which the State and its agents deal with such incidents.
Connemara Radio Art Competition The judging and prize giving of the Connemara Community Radio Art Competition will take place at the Station in Letterfrack on Friday May 15th at 4pm. There were a total of 103 entries to the competition, including entries from Tully, Eagle’s Nest, Ballyconneely and Cashel National Schools, as well as Ballinakill Active Age Club and many individual entrants. Four great quality prizes have also been donated by Cregal Art Suppliers of Monivea Rd, Galway.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
Page 3
Connemara County Council Candidates Responses to Important Connemara Questions Question 1: Could you please detail three accomplishments as an individual within the last two years that show your commitment to the Connemara community. Josie Conneely 1. Works on N59 at Derrylea, contract price €4.8 million. 2. Restoration of Leenane Bridge which was officially opened in March 2009, contract price €1.9 million. 3. Roundstone water works extension from Cashel to Roundstone and upgrading of the reservoir, contract price €3.5 million. Kenneth Coyne I’ve been involved in organising fundraisers for a number of causes in the area, the most recent being a fundraiser for Clifden hospital. Also, I have campaigned on issues such as cutbacks in St. Anne’s nursing home in Clifden, trying to find out future plans by having it addressed in Dail Eireann. The most recent Campaign I am involved with is CSI: Clifden, which is a group that has recently been set up to try and finally get the long awaited and much needed community school built. I would like to take this opportunity and ask everyone to please give their support to this cause and to help in anyway they can. There is strength in numbers! These are just some of the issues I’m passionate about but they are the most important as they affect the most vunerable in society, the young, the old and the sick. I feel I can do much more than just fundraise and campaign on issues such as these, thats why I’ve taken the next step. If I’m unsuccessful I’ll continue to help out in any way I can to the best of my abilities. Sean Kyne 1. Helping Connemara people in issues that they raise privately with me, issues and cases that I couldn’t publicise here. 2 . Helping to prevent, along with some of my Connemara colleagues and all of my Party colleagues, the mass re-zoning of the Barna coastline in the Barna local area plan. 3 . Seeing negotiations opening with landowners regarding the re-alignment of the N59 at Moycullen following representations with the Chief Executive of the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the passing of planning permission for this important job. Eileen Mannion 1. I have taken an active interest in planning matters as they affect local Connemara families. 2. I have made submissions to the Department of the Environment on the operation of the County Development Plan as it affects Connemara people with particular reference to objections being filed by An Taisce and the Department of the Environment which I oppose. 3. I have maintained an active Fine Gael Branch in Clifden, the capital of Connemara, for the past five years, with a view to ensuring that West Connemara would be able to have a candidate from this area to contest the local election for the Fine Gael party now enjoying the highest level of support in the country. Connie Ni Fatharta 1. I was involved in the first Gaeltacht Plan which recognised the special needs in planning for Gaeltacht areas within County Galway. 2. I proposed and was supported when renewing the Galway County Development recently to give special recognition to emigrant families returning to live in their parent’s home area. 3. I made representations on behalf of many people to ensure roads were repaired and housing was provided. Seosamh O Cuaig 1. I expressed the Independent voice of Connemara and the Islands over and over again in the Council Chamber, on the Board of Udaras na Gaeltachta, on the Galway Vocational Committee, in the Border, Midlands and Western Assembly, in the Western Regional Authority, on a number of other public bodies and in the media. 2. I managed to convince my colleagues and others that the lack of Broadband in Connemara and in the rural areas generally could be rectified by adopting the Northern Ireland solution. I organised a delegation to Stormont in that regard. Recently the Government here adopted a similiar plan --the National Broadband Scheme. 3. I led the campaign for a new road to Connemara. The consultants are working on the plan right now.
Page 4
Tomas O Curraoin I have been involved in countless community matters and efforts over the years and encouraging people to look for and understand their own civil rights. I am very involved with my local sports clubs, and any community matter that I have an interest in, I am willing to give time to. Trevor O Clochartaigh 1. As Chair of the Galway City & County Childcare Committee we secured funding to fit out and launch a new playbus for Connemara which supports children and parents in rural areas who do not have dedicated childcare facilities. 2. As Chair of Coiste Pobail na Ceathrún Rua (Carraroe Community Council) we re-established the St. Patrick’s Day parade, secured funding for a community development officer and for a dedicated community development office for the area. 3. As a Director of Bealach, the Rural Transport Initiative we hired a development officer and put together an ambitious development plan for the company which resulted in us receiving mainstream funding and a much increased budget to provide essential transport services for marginalised communities all over Connemara and the Aran islands. Seaosamh O Laoi My commitment to the Connemara area is demonstrated through job creation and service to the community in social and sporting activities. For over 20 years, I have been a director of a number of companies that have created over 40 sustainable jobs in the fishing industry. These companies include Trosc Teo and Muirachmhainí Teo. I am a Direc-
May 2009
tor of The Irish Salmon Producers Group, the Irish Salmon Growers Association and I am Chairman of IFA Aquaculture. I am also a board member of the Spiddal Community Development Teo focussing on grass roots development and I am very active in social and sporting associations in my area. In the area of green energy development, I am a board member of Fuinneamh Sceirde Teo, which is currently developing an offshore wind energy farm, which will produce 100-megawatts of clean energy, which can serve 75,000 homes in the Connemara area. This is an innovative development and will produce many jobs in construction and operation. Sean O Tuairisg As full-time politician, a large portion of my work involves dealing with personal issues, such as Planning Applications, Home Repair Grants for the disabled and elderly and making representations on various matters not always connected to the County Council. As these are strictly confidential matters, they cannot be published. Input into the county development plan to ease restrictions on sustainable development, especially rural housing and enterprise and industrial units and to help counteract the population decline, especially in rural areas. My involvement in the delivering of the Clonbur, Leenane and Letterfrack sewerage schemes. My input into the formation of Town Development Plans in the Connemara Area and also the Gaeltacht Plan, which was the first in the country. My focus was to deliver balanced plans which would deliver community facilities, allow for appropriate enterprise and industrial development and appropriate residential development. Continued on next page
Connemara View Newspaper
Josie Conneely: With regard to Connemara having its own Local Government or Regional Authority, I cannot see that this will ever happen. At the moment there are 800 government agencies and I would think that this figure will be cut back in the future. I would foresee that the County Manager will eventually be in charge of the entire County including the City, Udras Na Gaeltacht, National Parks and the HSE. Kenneth Coyne: Well I think based on the great work Udaras na ghaeltachta has done, then I think something like that could be very beneficial to Connemara, it might help give the people more control, more of a voice. The one-sizefits-all “solutions” the government seem to use don’t suit Connemara or rural communities in general. Anything that’s positive in nature and has the interests of the whole community at heart should be welcomed and strived to achieve. Distant decision making should be a thing of the past. Sean Kyne: After serving 5 years as a Cllr I don’t agree with this. In the present economic climate more local Government bureaucracy is not required ! We would be wholly at the mercy of Central Government for our funding in any case as we do not have sufficient businesses to provide rates to properly fund our Region. Anyway I feel that the 7 Connemara Cllrs are serving their community well at present. A local Connemara Council could not highlight the needs of Connemara (the N59, proper sewerage and water, the requirements of the outer City bypass, a new R336 etc) any better than the existing Councillors who are united on these issues for the good of Connemara and who highlight their concerns at Council level, with the NRA, Ministers etc. From what I gather from Cllrs in the East of the County, members of town Councils feel that these bodies are merely talking shops. Eileen Mannion: Clifden has always suffered because it does not have its own Urban District Council (UDC) like Westport. The population of Westport entitled it to a UDC. A UDC has funds available to it which would otherwise not be spent in the area. However for Clifden to qualify as an U.D.C. area would require a change in Local Government legislation at national level. I would support that change but in the meantime I believe that Galway County Council Management should be pressed and will be pressed by me if I am elected to prove that they are spending in this area the sum equivalent to the amount of rates and water rates collected plus the sum of €250,000 which they collect annually for parking charges. In the Local Election of 2004 I raised the issue of Connemara having its own County Council. It has a population larger than County Leitrim and County Longford. It is a separate and distinct geographical unit. It is entirely appropriate that it should have its own Local Authority. I have called for this before but sadly the government parties have not supported this at national level. Connie Ni Fatharta: Yes, I would be in favour of Connemara having its own Authority. This was a major topic during the last Udaras and we all agreed that Connemara’s needs were very different to other areas. Will we ever see it happen is another question. Seosamh O Cuaig: I have been fighting for a Connemara
Local Authority for many years. The Connemara electoral area has more voters than all of County Leitrim. It has more voters than County Longford as well. County Tipperary has two local authorities---North Riding and South Riding. Tomas O Curraoin: I would be in favour of a system where regional localities, like Connemara would be broken down into their own areas with their own councils that would be responsible for their own affairs and general running. Trevor O Clochartaigh: Sinn Féin policy on Local Government is for major transformation of councils, to empower local communities, increase participatory democracy and enable the delivery of planning and public services that correspond to local need. We promote increasing council powers to include appropriate local control over the provision of services including education, healthcare, policing, infrastructure, investment and employment, childcare and social services. Under such an enhanced local government structure I believe we could much better serve the needs of the people of Connemara and that this is what we should be striving for. To this end Sinn Féin are seeking a mandate for change at local, national and European level to introduce these fundamental changes. Seaosamh O Laoi: The needs of the Connemara area are indeed unique and with more devolved local structures, accountability can be enhanced. A Connemara Regional Authority has merits as the area is both remote from Galway and has suffered from lack of investment and has poor infrastructure. The planning issue is crucial to development and must take a realistic approach to the SACs and the needs of the community. Community based planning is best achieved at local level. Sean O Tuairisg: First of all, as regards proper attention and funding for Connemara, when the Connemara councillors raise these matters at council and area meetings, the council officials tell us that we are getting our fair share. Indeed, there are often complaints from councillors from the other parts of the county that we are getting more than our share. However, I agree completely that Connemara is unique and is part of a large county which stretches halfway across the country from Clifden to Portumna and would benefit from having its own local government. Also, in addition to its uniqueness, it can be argued that it has the same population as Counties Leitrim and Longford, which incidently have 21 councillors each, compared to 7 for Connemara. This matter has often been raised in the past and I have always supported the idea and will continue to do so, as I believe it would deliver better services and infrastructure for Connemara and the Offshore Islands. Thomas Welby: The issue of a separate Council for Connemara was raised as a possibility in the Local Election in 2004. I did not agree with this separate entity basically because Connemara has a very small rates base, this would limit attracting funding, and also that you would only be creating another layer of bureaucracy which would not give value for money. Presently in relation to job creation, and support to both tourism and non-tourism businesses in Connemara, you have five different agencies, three concentrating on non-Gaeltachta and two concentrating on Gaeltachta areas. I could see more merit with the creation of one regional group, covering all aspects of economic and social development. The present restrictions that apply in relation to locating only Udaras developments in Gaeltachta areas should be discontinued. There should be a more focused attention in rela-
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
Question 1 continued Thomas Welby 1. Economic Activity: Successfully lobbied for major works on Rosroe Pier in Renvyle. 2. Tourism: Liaised with Landowner and Galway County Council to secure the continuity of the Western Way walking route and successfully secured necessary monies to carry out upgrade work to same. 3. Amenities / Youth Facilities: Worked closely with local committees and Galway County Council to secure planning permission and funding for All Weather Pitch and Playground in Oughterard.
Question 3: The needs of Connemara region are unique to the rest of the county with specific regard to its outstanding beauty and overdependence on tourism for local employment. In many areas, the roads, water, sewerage and educational infrastructure are poorly developed and maintained. Would Connemara get the proper attention and funding if it had its own Local Government or Regional Authority?
tion to support and funding to indigenous and proven industry, i.e. tourism, and we should also exploit the natural resources in relation to marine, both leisure and commercial, and energy generation, both wind and wave. The development of these sectors would also add to the sustainability to the region.
Are You Registered to Vote? If you are not registered, you can apply to be included in the Supplement to the Register of Electors by filling out the form RFA2. This form is available from the County Council Offices, public libraries, post offices and Garda Stations. Go to www.galway.ie to download a form. It must be signed at your local Garda station. The form should then be sent back to Galway County Council before Monday 18th May 2009.
How to Vote You vote for candidates in order of preference. You mark the ballot paper by putting 1 opposite the name of your first choice candidate and, if you wish, 2 opposite the name of your second choice and so on. Only one of the preferences in your vote is active at a time. The vote stays with your first preference candidate unless and until he/she does not need it any more (either because he/she has been elected or excluded from the count). If your vote is transferred, it passes to your next highest preference for a candidate still in the running. Your vote could transfer a number of times at the same election to your lower preference candidates.
How Does The Transfer System Work? Transfers have a huge influence on elections and Connemara is no different. There is a higher concentration of candidates in the east of the electoral area (Oughterard, Moycullen,Spiddeal) and transfers help these candidates because voting in the “locals” is cross party and stays local. A candidate can be outside the top 7 (no. of seats in Connemara) after the first count and still get elected through transfers. So remember the power of transfers on June 5th and get out and vote.
Page 5
Clifden
Objection to Ardbear Rezoning The Ardbear/Faul Residents’ Association sent a letter of objection to Galway County Manager Martina Maloney with regard to the rezoning of lands from Agricultural to Residential adjacent to the Rock Glen Hotel, Ardbear, which is owned by Cllr. Josie Conneely. The Connemara View also received a copy of the letter from the group’s chairperson Dr. Ciaran McLoughlin and the aftermath and reaction to the objection has since been reported nationally in various media. The Clifden Draft Town Plan as presented by the County Manager recommended that no change should be made to the zoning of this property. However, at a meeting of County Councillors to respond to submissions to the Draft Plan in late February, the proposal to rezone this land was carried by a vote of 8 to 1, with one abstaining. While there are a total of 30 County Councillors, only ten were present for the vote on this proposal. Cllr Conneely absented himself from the meeting as he has an interest in the land. The Final Draft Plan is expected this week from the County Manager. Connemara Councillors will then meet to give their recommendation before it goes before the next full Galway County Council meeting at the end of May.
Connemara Airshow Fundraising Events Night at the Dogs Today we take air travel for granted but in 1919, two men made aviation history with a daring defeat of innovation and vision. Ninety years later, in honour of this historic event, Clifden Chamber of Commerce is proudly hosting a spectacular FREE air show on Sat 13th June 2009. On Friday June 5th a night at the dogs will be held in order to raise funds for the Connemara Air Show. This night promises to be a great social night out with a top prize of €1500.00. For €25 you get entry to the dog track, food on the night and the chance to win €1,500 if your ticket correctly predicts the order of the Jackpot race. There are only 720 possible options so if you are not in you cannot win! Tickets for the fundraiser can be got by contacting Joe Lynch on (087) 6777774 or joe.lynch@kavanaghgroup.ie Airshow Am-Am The Airshow organising committee will also be hosting an AM-AM to raise funds for the event on the afternoon of Friday May 29th. Please contact Michael King for further information and available tee times on 087 6738198.
Chamber News Gearing up for a big June celebration! June promises to give a significant kick start to regional tourism with the Volvo Ocean Race coming to Galway in a few weeks. The Chamber is working to capitalise on the major influx of visitors to Galway by offering a better value and more relaxed base for visitors to use whilst in the area. We are working with the event organisers for a park and ride facility so that visitors in Connemara can go to Oughterard, park the car and be bussed in to the heart of the action on the Galway docks and still return to a Connemara base for the evening. Truly the best of both worlds; enjoy the hustle and bustle of Galway but not the overcrowding and inevitable high cost of staying there. Highlands and Islands Family Walking Festival The chamber is organising two events to coincide with the Volvo Race and the June Bank Holiday weekend. First, for the outdoor enthusiasts, the Highlands and Islands Family Walking Festival. Visitors will be able to enjoy a selection of walks celebrating the history and unique environment of West Connemara, featuring Island walks, night time walks on the Diamond, walk back through Connemara’s engineering legacy on the Marconi site and Alcock & Brown landing site. Full details of the available walks and how to book will be on our website Clifden.ie and this promises to be a very interesting and well attended event. Clifden Jazz and Blues Weekend ‘09 If you are still up for some entertainment after a day out and about, then Clifden’s annual June weekend Jazz and Blues Weekend will be just the tonic to relax and unwind with celebrated Jazz and Blues musicians playing throughout the town over the weekend.
Page 6
“ Yesterday we were in America…” The first time these words were spoken on European soil was in June 15th 1919 when Alcock & Brown completed the first nonstop transatlantic flight across the Atlantic. Connemara will celebrate the 90th anniversary of this event this from June 12th -14th with walks, talks, exhibits and a spectacular free air show in Clifden Bay on Saturday June 13th next. This weekend celebrating one of the most significant early achievements in aviation is a must for all aviation and history buffs and full details will be available on our special website www.connemaraairshow.com. Declan Mannion
Clifden Library News Book Donations A most sincere thank you to everyone who has donated books to the library so far; most of them have now been added to our stock and our children’s fund has benefited hugely from the proceeds of the book sale. Keep the books coming and what cannot be used either in Clifden Library or other libraries can be put in the book sale to fund the children’s activities at Clifden Library. In particular, we are looking for good quality up to date general fiction and specifically copies of the latest version of The Official Driver Theory Test Book and CD, 3rd Edition-with the blue cover. Clifden Library has a good local history collection but we are always keen to add to it. It’s most important for the community to have a safe and secure place to hold items of local interest or valuable information can be lost forever. For example we have a copy of every edition of the Connemara View since it was first published. The library has some back issues of the Connemara Pony Show Catalogue but very little before year 2000. If anyone has anything that can be added to the collection, please bring them in, books, catalogues, brochures, postcards, photographs. Photos can be scanned and copies made, so the originals can be returned. Musical Evening Clifden Library presents ‘Galway in Song’ with Galway County Council Musician in Residence Singer/ Songwriter John Faulkner. Tuesday 12th May at 6pm sharp. All welcome, admission is free but seating is limited so please come early or phone Paul or Bernie on 095-21092 to reserve a place. Children’s Poetry Competition This great competition is open to all junior library members. Write a poem about your favourite animal. The poem must have at least 6 lines and no more than 12 lines. Put your full name, age and phone number on your entry and bring it along to the library before Friday 29th May. Lots of individual prizes for the best poems. Reader of the Month March Reader of the Month: D.J.McEvaddy. Thank You On a personal note, I have been with Clifden Library for just over 10 years now. Although the library itself has changed a lot over the last ten years- back then there were no computers, no Internet- things ticked along nicely, but one thing remains constant, and that is the warm welcome I received then and now. I got to know many people in Clifden and Connemara and have made some wonderful friends. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the community especially the children who make my every working day such a joyful and rewarding experience. I look forward to the next ten years working with you all. Bernie Jeffries
Clifden Animal Rescue Over €500 was raised at the Clifden Animal Rescue Sale on Easter Saturday April 11th at the Atlantic Hotel which was very successful and well supported with many donations of items and baked goods. More fundraising events will take place throughout the year and on an ongoing basis for this local effort to re-home and take care of animals in need.
Mhuire pupils are currently collecting with sponsorship cards and all support is welcomed. The walk will be suitable for all ages and abilities and all are welcome to join in on the day.
Thomas Whelan Clifden Cumann At a meeting of the Thomas Whelan Fianna Fail Cumann, held in JCs Restaurant, Clifden, on Friday 17th April, 2009, a number of issues ranging from roads, sewage and water were discussed. The biggest discussion on the night was our community’s need for a new secondary school and Councillor Josie Conneely who was in attendance, is helping the Community School to form a delegation that will also include the Cumann Secretary PK Joyce. This delegation will then go to Dublin to put the Community School project to the fore. A proposal was also put forward at the Cumann meeting to write to Minister for Education and Science, Batt O’Keefe TD on this issue, to highlight the Cumann’s support for a new secondary school. The Cumann looks forward to welcoming new members and you can contact the Secretary PK Joyce at (095) 21688.
Easter Memorial Commemorative wreaths were laid at the Thomas Whelan Memorial in Clifden on Easter weekend by both the Thomas Whelan Fianna Fáil Cumann who laid a wreath on Sunday, and the North Connemara Branch of Sinn Féin who laid a wreath on Easter Monday. Photos below: (L-r): Mary Walsh, Michael Gibbons, Cllr Josie Conneely, Stephen Joyce and Christy Canning of the Thomas Whelan Fianna Fáil Cumann. Kenneth Coyne, local election candidate of North Connemara Sinn Féin speaks after the laying of the wreath on Easter Monday.
Youth effort for local charity On May 3rd, Kids View’s Steven Coohill presented the proceeds of his home-made St Patrick’s Day Shamrock Badges to Ability West’s Clochan House in Clifden. Stephen collected €123 on St Patrick’s Day for Clochan House, and it was gratefully accepted by Patricia Stanley, Ann Marie Ward and Stephen’s aunt Julie McCann.
Daffodil Day The annual Daffodil Day collection which was undertaken by local volunteers and members of the Clifden Branch of the I.C.A. outside Supervalu Clifden was very successful once again this year, with over €2000 collected for the Irish Cancer Society, roughly the same figure as last year.
Scoil Mhuire Sponsored Walk On Sunday May 17th the Scoil Mhuire Parents Association are holding a fundraising sponsored walk guided by local archaeologist Michael Gibbons at the Marconi site. Scoil
May 2009
Connemara View Newspaper
Cashel
Defibrillator Fundraiser A table quiz was held in Johnny O’Loughlin’s Bar recently to raise money for a local defibrillator. There were ten tables participating. The winning team consisted of Stephen O’Toole, David O’Toole and Conal Lee with a score of 55/70. The runners up on 54 points were Maisie Ridge, her daughter Brid, Martin Ridge and Micheal Folan. The night proved a big success with €700 raised between the quiz entries, raffle and donations. The organisers Bernard Lee, Miriam Culhane and Joan Adley would like to thank the staff and management of the local bar for their assistance and all those who donated raffle prizes. A donation box will be located in the bar and at the local community centre for those who want to contribute to this worthy cause.
Cashel Recess Radio Broadcast The outside broadcast unit of Connemara Community Radio came to the National School in Recess recently to broadcast a live programme on the Cashel and Recess areas. Bernard Lee who represented Cashel is pictured below with Pat Walshe and Bridie Cashin of Connemara Community Radio with some of the contributors to the show, which was a great success.
Fashion Show The recent Fashion Show in Clifden Station House Theatre in aid of Claddaghduff Hall was a resounding success. Carrie-Anne DeLappe and her team from Clifden Community School put in a great deal of work and the show they produced was fabulous. Photo: Sarah and CarrieAnne DeLappe at the Fashion Show in the Clifden Station House Theatre in aid of Claddaghduff Hall.
aghduff. The children were Grace Cafferkey, Annabelle Mulkerrin, Evelyn Gordon Mullen, Caroline Conneely, Noel McGloin, Nikita McLoughlin, Ben Shannon, Lewis Dickinson, Eoin Needham and Hugh Manley. The teachers from both schools did great work helping and preparing the children for their big day. Dorothy Conneely
Badminton Club Claddaghduff Hall Badminton Club has been re-formed in recent weeks. Badminton for adults takes place in the hall on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8pm to 11pm and on Sunday mornings for the children (7+). It is a mighty success and it is wonderful to see so many enjoying the badminton so much. Hopefully the adult players will be fit for a challenge in the near future! All welcome, no equipment needed just come along and have a game!
Bingo Bingo takes place in Claddaghduff Hall every Sunday evening at 8:30pm. Come along and try your luck!
Books - Bring & Buy Cashel NS News On Monday 20th of April we moved into our new classrooms. They are really spacious. We also had a visit from the Environmental puppet show. It was really interesting. We were even showed how the shadow puppets work. On Monday 27th of April, Kevin and Grainne from the Western Regional Fisheries Board came to our school. They told us what their job consists of. They showed us some insects and fry that are in the local lakes, streams and rivers. At the end of our lesson Kevin told us to always wear our lifejackets when going out to sea and never go alone. Always go with an adult. During our Easter holidays some pupils went to a live radio show. It was held by Connemara Community Radio in the old school in Recess. We played music, sang songs and spoke about our Comenius Project. We are looking forward to our Comenius visit in May from Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark and Hungary. As part of the week’s activities we are having a céilí in Cashel Hall on Thursday 14th of May from 7.30pm with music by past pupils JAMD as well as Fiachra O’Regan and Na Ceannabháin Bhána – all are welcome! Additionally, our art will feature in an exhibition and sale of our own unique art in the school from Monday 11th to Thursday 14th of May- please support! Original works of art for sale- you can’t miss it! Slán go fóill- A bientot! Cashel N.S.
Cleggan & Claddaghduff
Claddaghduff Show is back! Sunday July 26th 2009 will see the return of Claddaghduff Show after a break last year. This will be the 21st Claddaghduff Show and there are big plans afoot. There will be the usual in-hand pony classes, cattle and sheep classes and the ever popular dog show. 2009 will also see the return of some craft classes. Work is being undertaken to improve the show ring and also the approach road from the hall to the show field. Race Night Fundraiser On Saturday May 16th a Big Race Night will take place in the Station House Hotel to raise funds for the work that is being undertaken. That is the weekend of the May Connemara Pony Sales and it is hoped that there will be a large attendance of locals and visitors for the sales, and plenty of craic. On the night there will be attendance prizes and spot prizes and a good night out is guaranteed. The first race starts at 9pm. Cathriona O’Toole
Connemara View Newspaper
Every Sunday morning at Claddaghduff Hall from 11am to 1pm – bring your used books and have a browse through the extensive collection of books available.
Bonus Ball News The “bonus ball” has just started its second year and has a new format. Instead of an annual prize-winners’ prize, we will have four quarterly prizes of €150 each. Each quarter, the winners will go forward for the draw of €150. The first year has been a great success. Thank you to all the supporters who buy a line every week at Claddaghduff Bingo and in Sweeney’s shop. The winner of the annual prize-winners prize of €500 was Brenda Mullen from Ballynew, Cleggan. Congratulations Brenda!
Community T’s Community T-shirts are now selling at Gannon Sports Clifden, O’Toole’s Foodstore in Cleggan, Sweeney’s Claddaghduff and at Claddaghduff Hall.
AGM Cleggan Claddaghduff Community Council will hold their Annual General Meeting in the community building, Cleggan on Monday, May 18th at 8:30pm. All welcome.
Holy Communion Congratulations to the following children from Cleggan and Claddaghduff National Schools who received First Holy Communion on Sunday, May 3rd in Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, Cladd-
May 2009
Page 7
Maam, on the birth of their daughter, Emma, a sister for Cormac and Conor. R. Hanley
Letterfrack Bog Week 2009
Clonbur/Corr na Móna A crowd of several hundred people gathered in Corr na Móna on Sunday May 3rd when Minister Éamon Ó Cuiv, T.D. officially opened the new walk ‘Siúilóid Binn Sléibhe’ linking the villages of Corr na Móna and Clonbur. Poster presentations, slide shows on the Zambia Housing Project and refreshments greeted the visitors.
The village of Letterfrack is preparing for an extra special Bog Week as CEECC celebrates 25 years in existence in 2009. More details of Bog Week 2009 and its excellent line up can be found in Connemara Arts View on page 19.
Inishbofin Inishbofin Arts Festival The 11th Inishbofin Arts Festival takes place on the island this weekend from May 8th to 10th. Go to page 19 to see a listing of events.
RNLI Visit School RNLI crew members Barry Ward, Robert King and Daniel Whelan visited Inishbofin NS recently to give an educational presentation to the children on beach, boat and safety matters. Pupil Harry Concannon recently collected over €200 for the RNLI and his donation was much appreciated and acknowledged by the local RNLI. Photos below: Harry Concannon, aged 10, with RNLI crew members at Inishbofin NS. The pupils of Inishbofin NS with the RNLI crew members who gave an educational presentation at the school recently.
The Citizen’s Information Letterfrack Service will be available at Connemara West on Tuesday 5th and Tuesday 19th May from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. If you have any questions about Social Welfare, Pensions, Housing, Consumer Affairs, Employment, Education or any of your rights and entitlements, call us on 087 130 1100 or drop in. A wide range of application forms and booklets are available, including: Entitlements for People with Disabilities, One Parent Families Information Guide, Entitlements for the Over Sixties and Employment Rights Explained. www.citizensinformation.ie.
Maam
Oughterard
Féile an Mháma 2009 will be taking place again this year from the 24th – 26th July. There will be a Mass in the local Cemetery at 7.30 p.m. on the Friday, followed by refreshments and entertainment in Ionad Pobail an Mháma. There will be numerous activities on Saturday and Sunday, including a guided walk, a tug of war, a duck race and lots more! A barbeque will be held at Ionad Pobail an Mháma on the Sunday afternoon. There will be plenty of music and entertainment in the Kilmilkin bar and in Keane’s pub over the weekend. A detailed programme of events will follow shortly. Tá Coiste Forbartha an Mháma ag súil go mór le sibh a fheiceáil ansin! For further details please contact Gráinne at 087 7634593. Grainne Ni Chadhain
The Oughterard Community playground sod turning ceremony took place at Corribdale grounds Oughterard, on Easter Monday. The sod was turned by Vanessa Butler, Oughterard Maid of the Parade 2009. The ceremony was attended by the playground committee, Cllr. Thomas Welby and many of the parents and children of Oughterard. The target figure of €85,000 to fund the project has so far climbed to almost €55,000.
Letterfrack Information Service
Parish Centenary (1909- 2009) The Parish of Kilbride celebrates its Centenary this year. Work is progressing on a booklet about the area, which includes some of the history of the churches, schools, graveyards, community groups, etc. If any parishioner has old photographs or items of interest that they would like to include in the booklet please give them to Fr. Burke as soon as possible.
Los Chiles Fundraiser The Los Chiles Social took place in Leenane Hotel on 17th April. Music was provided by The Coasters from Louisburgh and a raffle took place on the night. Every year all proceeds from this event go towards the Los Chiles project which raises funds for people in Los Chiles in Nicaragua.
Mountain Rescue The Mountain Rescue Team had a training session in the Maamturk Mountains recently. They used Ionad Pobail an Mhama as a base for activities and for refreshments. The Leenane/ Maam Branch of the Irish Red Cross continue to hold meetings in the Ionad Pobail every Monday evening.
Maam Women’s Group Eleven members of the Women’s Group recently enjoyed a lovely lunch in the Pyramid Restaurant, The Neale. Some members are taking part in Forum Women’s networking weekend. This includes a visit to Dáil Eireann. The group will stay in the Regency Hotel in Dublin from 11th to 13th May. Well done to Pauline O’ Malley, Breenane, Maam, who represented the Women’s Group in the Clonbur Rose competition which took place in Fairhill House, Clonbur.
21st Birthday Happy Birthday to Monica Brennan from Curr, Maam, who celebrated her 21st Birthday with a party for family and friends in the Kilmilkin Bar. The Mulkerrins Brothers from Aran, winners of the All –Ireland Talent Show, recently entertained a packed house at the same venue.
Birth Congratulations to Padraic and Eimear O’ Malley,
Page 8
Connacht Sheep Shearing Championships Maam Cross will stage this year’s Connacht Sheep Shearing Championships on Sunday May 24th at the Maam Cross Mart. Organic, crafts, and other related industries within the farming sector will display their products to the general public. There will be cookery demonstrations including a special feature on how to prepare and cook the infamous ‘Connemara Hill Lamb’ with Special Guest Chef Stephan Matz from Ashford Castle. There will be a fun fair and demonstrations of Sean Nos Dancing and horse shoeing. The Connemara Blackfaced Sheep Breeders Society will be officially launched on the day. For further information contact Eoin Burke on (091) 552254 or Paddy Rock at (087) 2439760.
Féile an Mháma 2009
Such was the crowd that many could not make their way into the Áras Pobal in Corr na Móna and proceeded directly on the ‘Siúlóid’. Walkers were thrilled by the display of hawks and falcons by the Ashford School of Falconry. A little further on, musical entertainment was provided while sheep shearing and wool spinning were demonstrated in glorious sunshine. After completing their 10km ‘Walk’ to Clonbur, refreshments were again provided and walkers presented with their certificates in recognition of successfully completing ‘Siúilóid Binn Sléibhe’ on the Opening Day. The newly opened route was launched as a result of a joint effort by the committee of the Joyce Country Mount Gable Walk and the Zambian Housing Project. Photo: A section of the newly opened ‘Siúilóid Binn Sléibhe’ linking Clonbur and Corr na Móna.
Maam Cross
May 2009
First Sod turned on Playground
Afterwards, a children’s fun day was held in the grounds of the Connemara Gateway Hotel. A BBQ, bouncy castle, fancy dress competition, treasure hunt and a kiddies disco were laid on for the children and Oughterard Óg Ógrás entertained the people with their usual energy and talent. Photo: The Oughterard Playground Committtee and parents and children of the locality at the sod turning of the new playground. Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick
Oughterard Show Goes to the Dogs Oughterard Show Society has again teamed up with Ardrahan Show Society for a big “Night at the Dogs” Fundraiser to be held at the Galway Greyhound Stadium on Friday 26th of June from 7.00 p.m. The two groups need to sell 720 tickets with various combinations of the six trap numbers. If the number sequence on the ticket matches the result of the feature race on the night, the holder scoops the first prize of €1500. There are five opportunities to win €100 by way of a draw of counterfoils entered in a lucky dip. Tickets cost €20 and include admission as well as the race card for the night, are available from Maria O’Neill, Oughterard Show Society Secretary (Tel 086 1517289) or from Committee members. The 47th Oughterard Show takes place this year on Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th of August. It costs over €78,000 to run the Show, all of which must be collected by way of sponsorship, entry fees, fundraising and donations. Enquiries regarding the fundraiser or anything related to this year’s show should be directed to the Secretary, Oughterard Show Society, Camp Street, Oughterard. 096 1517289, oughshowsociety@gmail.com.
Easter Sunrise Mass The annual Easter dawn mass took place at Baurisheen bay on the shores of Lough Corrib, near Oughterard on Sunday April 12th. The concelebrants of the mass were Fr. Jimmy Walsh, Fr. Sean Manning and Fr. Johnny Mullen. The morning was bright and dry with a slight frost, and some of the large crowd of mass goers (almost 1000 people), warmed themselves at the Paschal bonfire. The atmosphere was uplifting and spiritual as the prayers and the choral excellence of the Oughterard singers, under the baton of Dennis Geoghegan, echoed across the still waters of Lough Corrib.
Connemara View Newspaper
Oughterard
Continued
Sewerage Scheme Progress The news that the Department of Environment has allowed Galway County Council to proceed to the next stage for the construction of a new Sewerage Treatment Plant for Oughterard has been broadly welcomed in the area by members of the public and elected representatives Cllr. Thomas Welby, Cllr. Seamus Walsh and Deputy Frank Fahey. The Oughterard Sewerage Action Group have been lobbying strongly on the issue since July 2008, and on January 30th a meeting was held with officials of Galway County Council, the Department of Environment and Minister John Gormley. After that meeting the group was informed that the brief for the appointment of consultants would be forwarded to the Department of Environment on the 13th of February 2009. The brief had been sent to the Department of Environment from Galway County Council three times and been returned due to bureaucracy and red tape. This was viewed by many as a delaying tactic, which frustrated efforts to advance progress to the next stage. On April 17th, confirmation was received that the Department of Environment had given approval to begin the process for appointment of consultants to Galway County Council. Oughterard Sewerage Action Group is now concentrating all its efforts on Galway County Council officials in an effort to ensure that this scheme moves ahead as quickly as possible, and will continue to do so until Oughterard has a modern treatment plant in place. The first task of the consultants when appointed will be to prepare a Design Review Report so as to ensure that the most suitable and effective scheme is put forward. Successful completion of this task will lead to the preparation of the contract documents, which will be used to invite bids for the construction of the scheme.
Local Councillor and member of the Oughterard Sewerage Action Group Tom Welby stated, “This is a very welcome development in relation to the ongoing effort to construct a new treatment plant to service the town and also stop the ongoing environmental damage to Lough Corrib. It is imperative that this scheme is progressed as quickly as possible and I will impress on the Government representatives the need to ring fence the necessary funding to complete this scheme”. Photo: Oughterard Sewerage Action Group. (L-r): Justin Keogh, Cllr. Seamus Walsh, Patrick Faherty, John Gibbons, Cllr. Thomas Welby, Patricia Welby.
Clann News Clann Recipe Book We are currently hoping to put a Clann Family Recipe Book together of local recipes donated by you our community. If you have a recipe to share and would like to donate it to our book then please contact us on 557633 or email clannres@eircom.net. Calling all men! Would you like to come along and explore some of the current issues influencing your life in 2009? Meet others and share experiences with one of our facilitators. Contact Clann in the strictest of confidence, on 087 6171693. All welcome and free. Bealach Launch BEALACH’s Strategic plan was launched in the Connemara Gateway on March 27th. BEALACH provides a rural transport initiative in Connemara and the Gaeltacht. Our bus runs on a Friday from Spiddal at 10.30am via Seanafeisteen, Rusheeney, Moycullen return from Spiddal at 2pm. Pop into Clann Resource Centre and pick up a timetable. Financial Advice M.A.B.S (Money & Budgeting Advice Service) is available on every second Monday. Next visit is due on Monday May 18th from 10am-1pm by appointment. Contact Clann for more details on 557633.
Connemara View Newspaper
Youth News Youth café: The youth café has signed a lease for what used to be Archer’s Attic! We’re refurbishing, painting, and decorating – thanks to Gerry Molloy, Desi Walsh, Patrick Lynch, Liam Beswick, James McArdle and Paul and Miles Upton for their help with the carpentry, electrics, and painting. Next steps are to kit the place out (with pool table, TV, computers, beanbags, and so on) and hold a meeting for volunteers. Would you like to help out at the youth café for a few hours a month, or join the committee? Club4U: The Club has put together a song on alcohol abuse (lyrics and music), which they will record in a professional studio and enter into the Súil Aniar competition on drugs and alcohol awareness. The Club still needs adults to help support the teenagers. Girls’ group: The girls’ group is also entering Súil Aniar! Aoife Gilligan has been working with the group to create masks that show the positives and negatives of various drugs; Darius Ivan was of great help to the project as well. Stop by Clann any time to see the masks! Rainbows: For children who have been bereaved by death or divorce/separation. Spraoi: Spraoi, Oughterard’s youth circus, performed a great show lately at Brigit’s Garden’s Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday. Spraoi is badly in need of a second adult (preferably a woman) to help run the youth circus. Clann will be celebrating International Day Against Homophobia with a short film screening and discussion the evening of Monday, 18th May. You don’t have to be gay, lesbian, or bisexual to oppose homophobia! Come along and show your support for the rights of gay/lesbian/ bisexual people. Contact Clann for more details on all programmes on 557633. *All volunteers working with young people will be required to sign up to Clann’s child protection policy.*
Amateur Cooking Competition. (L-r):Eilish O’Neill, Seán Coyne, Tim Hone, Karen Moore, Daniel Philips, Nasha Mathiasen, Maureen Uí Chomáin (judge), Kathleen Nee (winner), Gerry Meade (judge), Mary Ruddy (runner-up), Gerard Coyne, Steve Kite (runner-up). Photo courtesy of Aoife Herriot Photography
Animal Rescue Fundraiser A sale in aid of Renvyle Animal Rescue will be held on Sunday May 31st in the Ellis Hall, Letterfrack from 10am to 3pm. Home baking, toys, clothes, bric-a-brac, curios, books, plants, and much more. Our Easter sale was a great success thanks to the record attendance and good quality donations from all our loyal supporters. We look forward to seeing you all in May. If you have any donations of items for the sale, please contact Judy on 087 0566302 or Babs at WestVet. Any contributions for our home baking and plant stalls would be very welcome on the day. Thank you for helping us to help animals in need. Judy Lawrence
Roundstone Roundstone Marina Five members of Roundstone Marina attended a special meeting in Dail Eireann on Wednesday last with two Ministers, O’Cuiv, and Power with Deputy Fahy in connection with the Marina that was proposed and granted to the people of Roundstone 7 years ago. Over the years many meetings took place, with different ministers, to try and get the marina off the ground. The Directors had met all the requirements requested from the department by the then ministers but still seem to be getting nowhere. We now await a letter from the department outlining where we stand with the Marina project. Continued on Page 14
Renvyle
Connemara Mussel Festival The 2009 Connemara Mussel Festival was once again a fantastic success over the course of the May Bank Holiday weekend. A host of food aficionados and enthusiasts from all walks of life savoured enormous quantities of fresh Killary mussels at various locations on the Renvyle peninsula, and the inventiveness and originality the festival has become synonymous with in recent years was once again very evident. The amateur cooking competition was won by Kathleen Nee with her ‘Mussel and Wild Garlic Risotto’. Local Sean Nos dancing hero Brian Cunningham was the winner of the Celebrity Chef competition beating off competition from political competitors Senator Fidelma Healy-Eames, Deputy Frank Fahey and Cllr. Thomas Welby. Joe O’Flaherty of Vina Mara restaurant Galway was named Connemara Mussel Festival Masterchef 2009 for his outstanding ‘Tortellini and Croquette of Mussels’. Photo above: The Connemara Mussel Festival 2009
May 2009
Page 9
Mannion’s AFC Reach League Cup Final Mannion’s AFC won their League Cup Quarter Final with a 3-0 win over Athenry C with 2 goals from Eoin O’Neill and one from Mark Gannon. On Bank Holiday Monday May 4th, Mannion’s AFC also prevailed in the Semi Final of the League Cup with a 4-0 win over Kinvara at Monastery Field, Clifden. They will face Salthill-Devon in the final, the date and venue for which had not been finalized at the time of going to print. Match reports will follow in the next issue of The Connemara View. Photo: Mannion’s AFC, League Cup Semi-Final Winners on May 4th. Back (l-r): Gerard Walsh, Gerard O’Toole, Cathal Mulkerrin, Thomas Madden, Brian Flaherty, Mark Gannon, Sean Mullen. Front (l-r): Liam Duffy, Daniel King, Dylan Wallace, Mark Shanahan, (Capt) Dermot Clancy, Sean Mitchell, Shane Lydon.
Mannion’s AFC News So we’re into the business end of the season as the pundits like to call it. Who goes up, who gets to the cup finals, and who gets a new bit of silverware for their mantelpiece. Of course you’ve got to be doing the business all season to make your last few games exciting and Mannion’s AFC have all the excitement and pressure this year that Man Utd, Barcelona and Chelsea are also experiencing. It seemed like we had been waiting an eternity to play
Page 10
our remaining 2 league fixtures to determine whether we won the league and of course the final 2 games were against our toughest competition in the division. West Utd were our penultimate opponents, a strong club from the city, whose A team have just captured their first premier league title in 16 years. Many players I know from West have plenty of skill, but I think they are better known for their no-nonsense, hardworking and physical approach which gets them the right results. It was a game I thought would hopefully go 1-0 in our favour but we were happy to take an amazing 8-4 score line at the final whistle. We had led 5-1 at half time mainly due to our fast and skilful attacking rather than a poor performance from our opponents. They definitely woke up in the second half and had a true match winner in their front line who completed a hat-trick and set up another to put them 4-5 behind and us under a lot of pressure. We contained our nerves and flowing crisp passing returned to our forward line and we scored 3 more goals (including a completed hat trick from our captain Shane Lydon) to cement our win. Other Scorers: Mark Gannon(2), Sean Mitchell(1), Dylan Wallace(1) and Brian Flaherty (1). The win kept us in 2nd place in the division and made our final league match very vital, beat 1st place Salthill Devon - win the league, get promoted and get our first bit of silverware for the club. Salthill travelled down to our home pitch in Carraroe
May 2009
knowing that a draw was enough to win them the league but we wouldn’t be sitting back at anytime. Our only goal came in the first half from a sweet strike from Eoin O’Neill and everything we hoped for was now in our hands. Salthill came out in the 2nd half much more determined and put us under much more pressure than they did in the first half. We fought them back with good tackling which usually ended up with them receiving undeserved free kicks but their eventually equaliser came from a passage of play which would have led to a purple faced explosion of expletives if it had happened to any Premier League manager. Shane Lydon broke from our midfield hoping for a long through ball which arrived a little bit later than he had wanted but he was clearly inside our half and therefore onside as it was struck. The ref blew for offside and booked Shane even though he had been cursing at his team mate for not releasing him earlier rather than the poor decision that the man in black had just given. We didn’t clear properly from the resulting free kick and even managed to knock our goal scorer to the ground as we attempted to get the ball out of our half, in the continuing confusion and drama the ball dropped to one of their players who curled the ball past our keeper Thomas Madden, who has had a great end to the season, to make it 1-1 and that’s how it ended. Our league position was determined by that goal from Salthill but in truth it was our one and only defeat to Oughterard earlier in the season which ultimately cost us the league title. Luckily we still have another chance to get promoted as by finishing 2nd we will now be in a playoff against the 2nd placed team in division 4B to see who gets in to Division 3. Kevin Gavin
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara Rugby Season Round Up
Safe in Division 3 Finally the season has come to an end on the playing side. Our last AIB AIL match was away to Ards, and the home side had an easy win. We were missing too many to make any real impact. But the result didn’t really matter as we were safe in Division 3 after Michael Aspell’s injury time try against Rainey Old Boys in the previous game.
Connacht Senior Cup We had a dramatic win against Buccaneers in the semifinal of the Connacht Senior Cup. It was 8 all at full time, 15 all after extra time, and then a penalty shootout. Although we missed our first kick, we went on to kick the next three, and the Athlone side missed two. Last Friday May 1st the final was played in Galway against Corinthians. We started well and a Sean Joyce drop goal after three minutes gave us an early lead. The city side got in for their first try on fifteen minutes. Five minutes later they got a penalty to make it 8-3. Two penalties from Sean Joyce put us back in front 9-8. A good move by the Corinthians backs saw them go in under the posts for a second try to make it 15-9. With injury time approaching, the referee signalled a penalty to us in front of the posts, but instead of giving us the kick he kept playing advantage. Corinthians cleared and got into our half, and were awarded a penalty which they converted to make it 18-9 at half time instead of 15-12. The second half didn’t get any better. Penalties for Corin-
thians on three and thirteen minutes gave them a 24-9 lead. Then with ten minutes left after a mix up in our back line, we gifted them their third try. Although the lads tried their best, decisions seemed to go against us on the night. Some of the lads are taking a break while others are playing football for the summer before the season starts again in the Autumn. The Mini’s had their final outing in Carraroe recently and preformed well reaching the final in all their grades. The AGM is coming up on the 26th May, and on the 29th there will be a social in the Station House Hotel. Peter Keane For more details on Connemara Rugby Club go to www.connemararfc.ie
Local Rugby Player Shines at Five Nations Clifden’s Tiernan O Halloran put in some impressive performances as part of the Ireland U 18 Schools Squad who were unbeaten during this year’s Five Nations campaign, albeit with some controversy over the England side’s refusal to play Ireland in the final game, meaning that they also remained unbeaten. In the Ireland School’s side’s first match against Wales on Sunday April 12th , Tiarnan, who as a student of Cistercian College, Roscrea also plays for Leinster schools, converted two tries, and the Irish side earned a deserved 22-15 victory. Next up was the host nation Italy on Wednesday, April 15th at Stadio XXV Aprile, Parma. Italy looked to pose a physical challenge but the Irish schools side far superior
skill prevailed and an emphatic 29-3 result in Ireland’s favour was the outcome. All that remained was the fixture against England on April 18th but the England management refused to play the match citing player safety as the reason. The match was not refixed. The England management were concerned about small stones on the pitch surface but organisers and local children cleared the stones and all four match officials felt it was in a good enough state to play on. Despite the Irish Management and team’s willingness to play the match, England maintained their refusal to play. Nonetheless, the Ireland side returned home with heads held high after a very successful and impressive 2009 performance in the competition. Photo: Tiernan O Halloran of Clifden in action against Italy, as part of the Ireland U 18 Schools Squad at the Five Nations Festival 2009.
West Coast Utd U-18 Connacht Final The U 18 West Coast Utd side was defeated by Corofin with a scoreline of 3-1 in the Connacht U-18 shield final on Saturday May 2nd. Reaching the final was a significant achievement for the West Coast Utd side as it was the first time in the history of the club for the U-18’s to contest a Connacht final. In the near future, the side will also play the U-18 Division final; no date had been set at the time of going to print. Photo: Back (L-r): Liam De Courcey, Ian Heanue, Jack Vaughan, Eoin Gannon, Eoin Kilkenny, Dan Sammon, Brian Hogan, Tommy Salmon, Peter Wallace, Alan O Malley, Cathal O Neill, Cal Gray. Front (L-r): Simon Heanue Joyce, Martin Walsh, Derek Heanue, Niall Black, Noel Varley, David Black, Shane Lydon, Brendan O Farrell.
Oughterard Basketball Pictured are some of the Corrib Ladies Basketball Club who recently celebrated winning the Ladies Basketball Division 2 Cup, defeating Ballinrobe in the final. Photo: (L-r): Emer Kyne, Edel DeLapp, Carol O’Connor, Treasa McDonagh, Sheona Thornton, Breda Fahy, Jackie Walsh and Sinead Kyne. Not pictured: Ita Greene (coach) Pauline Flaherty, Lorna Lambert and Jess McGrath. Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
Page 11
Oughterard Community Games The 2009 Oughterard Community Games took place at the Corribdale grounds on Sunday April 26th.
Results 2009
Connemara Gaels Hurling The Connemara Gaels Hurling Club was in action throughout April in Group B of the Minor C Hurling Championship. The recently formed team is enjoying great local support and enthusiasm from players, coaches and all involved in the revival of hurling in the region. Photo: Connemara Gaels hurling team with coaches Johnny Mummery and Michael Gallagher, and Ann Mitchell. Photo courtesy of Vincent Fahy
Derroura Time Trial The Kearney Cycles sponsored Derroura Time Trail Challenge, turned out to be a great day for all on Saturday April 4th. 58 riders signed on to get timed around the 17 kilometers rugged landscape, and the weather could not have been better with beautiful sunshine all day for riders and spectators. Photo: Some of the young participants at the recent Derroura Time Trial Challenge. Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick
Tots Race: Under 4: Dylan Fitzpatrick, Caoillin McDonagh, Tommy Tuck 60m under 6: Roan Morley, Adam Tierney, Padraic Faherty. Emer Geoghegan 2. Eimear Mc Namara 3. Caoillin O Halloran. 60m under 8: Gareth Molloy, Tom Fox, Luke Fitzpatrick. Aileen Gibbons, Aoife Mc Namara, Molly Watts 80m under 8: Tom Fox, Gareth Molloy, Shay Molloy. Roisin Darcy, Aoife McNamara. 100m under 10: Matthew Tierney, Robert Deasy, Robert Gill. Eileen Ellis, Laoise Gibbons, Eabha Geoghegan. 200m under 10: Robert Deasy, Matthew Tierney, Martin Joyce. Laoise Gibbons, Eabha Geoghegan, Aoife Gill. 100m under 12: Eamon Fox, Jordan Coyne, Paul Walsh/Eoin Whittaker. Jessica Glynn, Chloe Healy, Katie Geoghegan. 600m under 12: Eoin Whittaker, Eamon Fox, Paul Walsh. Chloe Healy, Jessica Lee, Aoife Darcy. 100m under 14: Eric Lee, Sean Kelly, Gareth Small. Olivia Walsh, Neasa Gibbons, Mairead Moran. 800m under 14: Gareth Small, Eric Lee, Colin Molloy. Aisling Noone, Mairead Moran, Marissa Gavin. 100m under 16: Patrick Fleming, Gareth Small, Ciaran Hanly. 1500m under 16: Patrick Fleming, Eric Lee, Gareth Lee. Ball throw under 12: Ciaran Molloy, Killian Noone, Robert Naughton. Shauna McDonnell, Emer Harte, Katie Watts. Puck Fada Under 14: Eoin Whittaker, Ciaran Molloy, Jordan Coyne. Aishling Noone, Noreen Maloney, Bega Murray. Photo: Dashing towards the finish line at the Oughterard Community games! Photo courtesy of Tom Broderick
FORUM ‘Youth in Action’ Fun Runs It is that time of year again, the annual FORUM Youth in Action Fun Runs! These events will be organised in Letterfrack (as part of Bog Week), and Cleggan on Sunday the 24th of May, and the following Sunday the 31st of May there will one fun run in Roundstone. As people are aware, the children in all the different areas are currently collecting sponsorship for these events. The proceeds from the days then go directly back into the young people of the area, through such things as summer camps, swimming lessons, and other activity such as workshops for young people during the year. An added bonus for the children who are fund raising is that they will be given baseball hats, wallets and t-shirts when they collect a certain amount. We are strongly encouraging this year that people try and join in on theses fun runs, as they are one of biggest events now for children in the area. If you do not wish to run you can walk the distance of 3km in the areas or if you wish you can go in fancy dress as it is a fun run for all.
Cleggan Fun Run
Darts Connemara Inter-Pub Championship Winners Left top: Darby’s (Teach Daingean): 2009 Connemara A Championship winning team who defeated Molly’s in a dramatic 28-26 final. Left bottom: Griffin’s Bar: 2009 Connemara B Championship Winners who defeated O Malley’s 28-14 in the final of the competition. Right top:The Angler’s Rest: 2009 Connemara
Grainne Mhaols GAA
Grainne Mhaols Ladies football team are currently in mid table of the County Senior League on two points having played two, with one win against Killannin 3-9 to 2-6 and one loss to Dunmore 3-16 to 1-13. In the Intermediate Championship in early May Grainne Mhaols lost narrowly on a scoreline of 3-6 to 3-3 to Glenamaddy.
Page 12
C Championship Winners who defeated The Renvyle Inn 28-15 in the final. Right bottom: Tír na nÓg: 2009 Connemara Shield Champions who defeated the Atlantic Hotel 28-19 in the final. Photos and results courtesy of Paul Gannon
If you wish to attend the Cleggan fun run, registration time is 2pm in the playground in the village and the race or walk will start at 2.30pm to Sweeneys in Claddaghduff. Those of you who regularly attend, will know there are hundreds of prizes for not only the children, but for the adults such as child and buggy races, first mum or dad in, first granny or granddad and many more categories. Following the event a bus will pick up participants from Claddaghduff and bring them directly back to Cleggan playground where there will be a beat on the street where other prizes are given for dancing. Other activities such as facing painting and bouncing castles will also be organised for the children, while the adults relax in the sun, or join in on the dancing.
Letterfrack Fun Run
NEXT ISSUE: Thursday, June 4th News Deadline Wednesday, May 27th Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com or phone 095-22888 May 2009
Quite similarly in Letterfrack registration for the race is 2pm in Tullycross and the race will be at 2.30pm to Letterfrack village. Following the race there is a prize-giving event and there are loads of prizes followed by games and fun for all the family.
Roundstone Fun Run As mentioned earlier the Roundstone Fun Run will be held on the Sunday the 5th of June, registration time is 2pm in the village and the race will begin at 2.30pm, following this event also there will be face painting, bouncing castles and a beat on the street. Marie Feeney
Connemara SportsView
Ti g h t L i n e s
Clifden Trout Anglers
The results of the Clifden Trout Anglers Harley Cup Competition which took place at Lough Fadda on Sunday April 26th were as follows: 1st Ricky Cronelly, 2nd John Flaherty, 3rd Joseph Acton, 4th Jackie Coyne 5th Gerry Dixon. 25 anglers participated and a total of approximately 30 fish were caught with Ricky Cronelly’s winning fish coming in at just under 1lb.
Oughterard Angling Cathal Noone Memorial Cup The Cathal Noone Memorial Cup trout fishing competition took place on Lough Corrib on Saturday April 11th. There was a fantastic catch of big specimen fish. A total of 13 brown trout were presented for the weigh in at Faherty’s bar in Oughterard. The competition winner who took the cup, presented by Mike Noone ( the late Cathal’s father ) was John McDonagh with a trout weighing 15.03 lbs. Sean Bourke came 2nd with a 14.14 lbs fish. Jamie Lydon came 3rd with two fish weighing 12.30 lbs and 3.24 lbs. Gerry Dixon came 4th with two trout weighing 7.95 and 6.77 lbs. 5th was Lee
Hurney with a 7.31 lb trout. 6th was Noel O’Toole who had two fish weighing in at 7.57 and 3.73 lbs. Kieran O’Toole had a 12.3 lb trout, Ryan Dixon’s fish weighed 6.85 lbs, Paul Delaney’s trout weighed 6.7 lbs and Bernard Butler’s fish was 5.3 lbs. Photo top: (L-r): Mike Noone, John McDonagh, Sean Bourke, Kieran O’Toole and Gerry Dixon. Photo and report courtesy of Tom Broderick
Bartley McGauley Cup The Bartley McGauley Cup competition was held by the Oughterard Angling Club on Sunday April 19th. 43 anglers participated in the competition, and 14 trout were caught. The competition was followed by a prizegiving at Faherty’s Bar. Prior to the competition on Wednesday April 15th, members of the Angling Club removed a very large amount of rubbish from the Owenriff River, which the club does a couple of times a year to prevent pollution as the river is a designated SAC. Photo: (L-r): Brian Higgins of Faherty’s Bar, Trevor Downs, 2nd place and winner of the Heaviest Fish Cup, Mark Molloy, Winner of the Bartley McGauley Cup, and Joe McGauley who presented the winning trophy. Photo and report courtesy of Kevin Prunty
Mannion’s Golf Society Mannion’s Golf Society most recent competition was played at the Connemara Golf Club on Saturday April 25th. Paddy Flaherty won with 33 pts, Julian Jeff ries was 2nd with 32 pts, Cyril Joyce 3rd with 32 pts and Seamus Mannion was 4th with 30 pts. Photo: (l-r) Dave Beecher, Declan Mannion, Winner Paddy Flaherty, John McDonagh and Paul Mannion.
Maam/Leenane Golfing Society The Maam/ Leenane Golfing Society had its first of three outings this year in Galway Golf Club, Salthill, on the 18th April, on a day described by people as one of the best days we have had in the West of Ireland in years. In total nearly 40 people played for the Captain’s prize. There were people from various parts of Ireland,-Dublin, Cork, Mayo and Galway. All those people had one thing in common- they all had some connection with Leenane or the Maam Valley. The results of the day were as follows: Members: 1st Tommy Walsh. 2nd Joe Donnelly. 3rd Terry Keenan. 4th Darren Joyce. 5th Tomas Higgins. Guests: 1st Gerry Carroll, 2nd Joe Waters, 3rd Senan Wall, Nearest Pin- Marcus Conroy, Longest Drive-Joe Waters. After the prize giving we all wined and dined for a couple of hours, before we headed off into the sunset. The next outing of the Golf Society is on the 20th of June, 2009. Tomas Higgins
Oughterard Golf
Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com or phone 095-22888 Connemara SportsView
31/03/09 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford. 1st Jones Ferris (7) 40 pts, (21B9) 2nd Vivian Noone (14) 40 pts, (20B9) 3rd John Wynne(Gort) (9) 39 pts, 4th Eamonn Hegarty (19) 38 pts, (22B9) C.S.S 36 pts. 01/04/09 Ladies 18 Hole Competition Irons Only. C.S.S. 73. 1st Maura Tonge (30) 33, 2nd Kathleen Dolly (26) 32, Gross: Patricia Lee (18) 14 Gross, 3rd Monique Bolger(26) 31(B3) Category 0 – 20 1st Raymonde Standun (19) 27, 2nd Ursula Hernon (16) 25.Category 1 – 28 1st Maura McNally (27) 31, 2nd Anne O’ C Walsh (23) 29, Category 29 – 36 1st Sheila McDonagh (30) 31, 2nd Bridie Duane (32) 29(B9). 05/04/09 l8 Hole Stableford Competition. Sponsor: Britvic. 1st Michael Seoige (19) 42 pts. 2nd Gerry Egan (14) 41 pts (22B9). Gross: Frank Forde (5) 33 gross pts (16B9,10b6) 3rd Gerry Burke (8) 41 pts (20b9),4th Eugene Cloonan (10) 39 pts, 5th Jerry Gore (8) 38 pts (21B9). CSS 36 pts. 07/04/09 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford 1st Matt O’ Connor (15) 40 pts, 2nd Cyril Foye (12) 38 pts, 3rd Jimmy Sheehan
May 2009
(16) 37 pts,(19B9). 08/04/09 Ladies 18 Hole Stableford Competition Easter Hamper. Sponsor: Probus Wines C.S.S. 731st Teresa Lydon (29) 40, 2nd Ann Kavanagh (23) 36, Gross: Bridget Walsh (16) 16 Gross, 3rd Teresa Butler (23) 36 Category 0 – 20 1st Valerie Heery (20) 34, 2nd Monica Power (19) 33, Category 1 – 28 1st Phil Kavanagh (21) 35, 2nd Debbie Ann Leonard (25) 34,Category 29 – 36 1st Kathleen Payne (34) 34(B9), 2nd Maura Tonge (29) 34(B9). 12/04/09 18 Hole Stableford Competition Sponsor: B. Morgan.1st Eugene Cloonan (9) 40 pts. 2nd Liam O’Reilly (3) 39 PTS (20B9). Gross: Michael Darcy (4) 32 Gross pts. 3rd Rory Murphy (18) 39 pts (19b9). 4th Joe Trehy (23) 38 pts (22b9,15b6). 5th Martin McDonagh (15) 38 pts (22b9, 12b6). CSS 36 pts. 13/04/09 18 Hole Bank Holiday Competition 1st Eanna Keleghan (24) 46 pts. 2nd David Nash (5) 43 pts. Gross: Hugh Walsh (4) 30 Gross pts. 3rd JJ Burke (12) 39 pts (24b9). 4th Malachy Glynn (10) 39 pts (20b9). CSS 36 pts. 14/04/09 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford. 1st Tom Molloy (10) 40 pts, (20B9, 14B6) 2nd Tom McDonagh (15) 40 pts, (20B9 13B6), 3rd Kevin Blehein (26) 40 pts,(19B9) 4th Tom Collins(16) 39pts (21B9). 15/04/2009 Ladies 18 Hole Stroke Competition. Sponsor: Tom Lydon Carpets & Furniture. C.S.S. 73.1st Maureen Corcoran (23) 70B9, 2nd Ruth Cunningham (28) 70, Gross: Mary Molloy (13) 90, 3rd Monica Power (19) 72.Category 0 – 20 1st Ursula Hernon (16) 75, 2nd Bridget Walsh (15) 76, Category 1 – 28 1st Alice Murphy (26) 73, 2nd Kathleen O’ Connell (24) 74, Category 29 – 36 1st Elizabeth Coen (36) 73, 2nd Clare O’ Keane (33) 74. Mens:1st Tom Molloy (10) 40 pts, (20B9, 14B6) 2nd Tom McDonagh (15) 40 pts, (20B9 13B6), 3rd Kevin Blehein (26) 40 pts,(19B9) 4th Tom Collins(16) 39pts (21B9) C.S.S 36 pts. 19/04/09 18 Hole Stableford Competition, sponsored by Tom Lydon, Carpets & Furniture, Moycullen. 1st Christy Smyth (19) 40 pts. 2nd Tony Baynes (15) 39 pts (20b9). Gross Hugh Walsh (4) 34 Gross pts. 3rd Mairtin O’Cearra (6) 39 pts (19b9). 4th Tony McDonagh (15) 38 pts (18b9). 5th Martin Callagy (10) 38 pts (17b9). CSS 36 pts. 21/04/09 Open Day Competition 18 Hole Stableford. 1st Chris Cahill (20) 40 pts, (19B9) 2nd Gerry Egan (12) 40 pts, (18B9), 3rd Sean O’ Reilly (6) 39 pts,(19B9). 4th Noel McEvilly (11) 39pts (18B9) C.S.S 36 pts Home 35 pts Away. 22/04/09 Ladies 3 Ball Blitz Competition. Sponsor: Des Kavanagh Electrical 1st Maire Ni Mhaile(14) Laura Gore (16) Barbara Buckley(20) 67pts 2nd Marguerite Fallon (16) Kathleen Payne(34)Clare Keane (36) 67.4 3rd Grace Morris (16)Maureen Corcoran (22) Debbie A. Leonard (25) 69.7. 26/04/09 18 Hole Medal Competition. Sponsor: Faherty Vending.1st David Healy (8) 66 Nett. 2nd Jerry Keeler (15) 69 Nett (32.5b9). Gross: Niall Faherty (6) 75 Gross. 3rd Kevin Heery (22) 70 Nett (33b9). 4th Tony Audley (15)70 Nett (35.5b9. 5th Willie Duddy (19) 71 Nett. CSS 71 Nett. Continued on next page
Page 13
E Q U E S T RIAN
National Award for Errislannan Manor
Connemara Golf 12/04/09 Open Singles Stableford,Ladies: 1st: Catriona Hartmann(23) 36pts, 2nd: Jean Bolger(22) 35pts,Gross: Tara De Courcey(8) 25pts,3rd: Mary Howley(24) 34pts, CSS: 34pts,Mens: 1st: Michael Fitzpatrick(18) 39pts,2nd: Julian Jeff ries(21) 37pts,Gross: David Stapleton Jnr(1) 32pts,3rd: Padraic Malone(8) 36pts. Home CSS: 73(35pts) Visitor CSS: 33pts,Junior: Sean Millar(27)43pts . 13/04/09 Open 4 Ball Betterball Stableford,Ladies: 1st: Mary Gannon(20) /Teresa O’Buachala(13) 38pts,2nd: Mary Daly(16) /Laura Daly(6) 36pts 3rd: Mary Lennon(15)/ Paula Waldron(25) 35pts,Mens: 1st: Michael O’Higgins(12) / Michael Molloy(15) 42pts,2nd: James DeCourcey(18) / Michael Gaughan(20) 41pts 3rd: Niall King(8)/ JP McDowell(9) 39pts 19/04/09 18 Holes Stroke,Sponsor: Finnerty’s Butcher, Oughterard Ladies: 1st: Mary O’Reilly(13) 72, 2nd: Kathleen
Roundstone Continued from page 9 Recess Mass Vigil: The annual Maumeen Stations of the Cross service had once again a huge turnout, this has gone from strength to strength over the years. Maumeen is where St Patrick rested and prayed on his way through to Croagh Patrick. Easter Fundraiser: Easter Sunday’s midday Mass was packed to capacity-one of the larger crowds ever to be seen in our church and outside for the overflow. It is really great to see the amount of people that turned out. The ladies had their raffle for the church repair fund; they were selling tickets over the past weeks prior to the midday Mass. They raised €2,300. Death: Sadly, the accidental death of 47 year old Declan Faherty occurred in Michigan in the USA on Friday last. Declan was the son of the late Paddy and Kathleen from Tully, Renvyle. He trained as a cabinetmaker under the late Joe Conneely at Beola Crafts back in the early 80’s. Declan met and married a student of the Aquinas College Michigan and Tullycross. Declan is survived by his wife in Michigan where they lived, and his sisters Mary and Muriel and brother Connor here in Ireland. May he rest in peace. Trip to France: The youth club had a great trip to France. Geraldine and I took 7 kids, Devina Joyce, Loren Conneely, Rebecca Conneely, Tara Coyne, Lucy Mannion,
Page 14
Errislannon Manor Riding Centre was recently nationally recognized as a Centre of Excellence for Equestrian Tourism 08/09 by the Association of Irish Riding Establishments (A.I.R.E.) in conjunction with Fáilte Ireland. This latest award has joined Errislannan’s ‘wall of fame’ which current staff Mary Ward, Roisin Pryce and Sarah Louise Keane continue to add to regularly. Details of Saturday Pony Club, mini-pops lessons and more can be found at www.errislannanmanor.com or by calling (095) 21134. Photo above: (L-r): Roisin Pryce, Stephanie Brooks, Angel the pony and Mary Ward of Errislannan Manor with their most recent award.
Cleggan Riding Stables Success
last. Siobhan Cazabon Sullivan and Aramis took the three red rosettes in Tests 98, 73 and 61, securing the Winter League Medium Championship. Siobhan continued her conquest of the Winter League Championships by also taking the trophy home in the Novice section. Alana Cazabon Sullivan, Siobhan’s daughter, rode two ponies, Lily and Amber, to equal first place in the Pony Club section and came away with a lovely trophy and an armload of chocolates for her win in the Pony Club Winter League Championship. The team competition went down to the wire. Only when the last score of the day was posted did the teams know who had won. Cleggan Riding Centre Team eventually edged out the Ardfry Stud Team to take the title. For more information, go to www.clegganridingcentre.com or call 095-44746.
Representatives of Cleggan Riding Centre enjoyed very significant success in the Midland & Western Winter League Finals at Woodlands Equestrian Centre, Sligo on March 29th
Photo above: The Cleggan Riding Centre winning Dressage team. (L-r): Siobhan Cazabon Sullivan, Andrew Cahill, Alana Cazabon Sullivan and Ruth Brennan.
Wallace(32) 74,gross: Deirdre Murphy(14) 92,3rd: Trease Ui Choghain(25)74,Mens: Pat Casey(13) 72,2nd:Paddy Aspell(13) 72, 3rd: Geoff Tucker(24) 73 CSS:73 22/04/09 Open Singles Stableford,Ladies: 1st: Anne Groarke(28) 25pts(b9)CSS: Reduction Only,Mens: 1st: Paddy Flaherty(6) 33pts,CSS: 33pts 26/04/09 V Par,Sponsor: Vincent Burke & Son Wine Distributors,Ladies, 1st: Kathleen Burke(29) +5,CSS: +3,Mens, 1st: Ciaran Wynne(16) +2,2nd: Derek Joyce(12) level,CSS: level 02/04/09 Open 4 Ball Betterball Stableford,Sponsor: Derryclare Restaurant, Ladies: 1st: Mary Gannon(19),Therese O’Buachalla(14) 39pts,2nd: Deirdre Murphy(15)Maura
O’Connor(27) 36pts,3rd: Peggy Clarke(17)/Julie Donnellan(17) 36pts,Mens: 1st: Mark O’Malley(5),/Gareth Anthony(6) 39pts,2nd: David Glynn(17)/John Brennan(11) 37pts(b6),3rd: Donacha O’Buachala(13)/Colm O’Buachala(14) 37pts. 03/04/09 Open 18 Holes Single Stableford,Sponsor: Sherry Fitzgerald Auctioneers. Ladies: 1st: Julie Donnellan(17) 35pts(b9),2nd: Treasa Ui Carthuir(25) 35pts,Gross: Laura Daly(9) 24pts,3rd: Peggy Clarke(17) 34pts,CSS: 35pts;Mens: 1st: Brian Loughney(11) 36pts 2nd: Paddy Flaherty(6) 35pts,Gross: Rory Sweeney(3) 31pts,3rd: Michael O’Cartuir(16) 33pts. Visitor CSS: 32pts(reduction Only) Home CSS: 32pts
Fergal McDonagh and Connor O’Malley. It was first time for the guys to travel with us, I have to admit Geraldine and I were not sure if it was going to work, but we need not have had any concerns. They were great ambassadors for Irish youth in France. As there were a few formal occasions with the Mayor of Noyelles Sous Lens, they excelled, and also a lot of interaction with the local young; two days in Paris, visiting museums and Parc Asterix, then to war memorial sites in Arras, Vimy, and visit down various coal mines. All very educational, but at the same time we did have a lot of fun, particularly the shopping sprees, but, owing to weight restrictions a lot of the purchases had to be left behind in the house we were staying! I must say bad luck for me, people know out there I like wine, I ended up with 28 bottles of good quality wines as presents, with no time to drink them, so had to leave them behind! That’s the bad news-however, the good news is that in June there are 20 of the Noyelles villagers, with Alain Roger the newly elected Mayor, coming to spend a week in June staying in Roundstone. Roundstone are so lucky to have another good group of young people. There are some quite good photos on the Roundstone website of the trip. Birth: Congratulations to John and Elaine Conneely on the christening of their baby daughter Nicole Alana last week, and lets us not forget the Grandparents, Ellie and James. Ellie, your family are going to keep you busy. Anyway we wish little Nicole a long and happy life!
May 2009
Easter Egg Hunt at Errisbeg House: There was a massive turnout for the Easter egg hunt with 100 children taking part. There were eggs spread over a vast area of Errisbeg grounds with children of all ages searching throughout. There were also some games and refreshments for the children and not to mention a drop of wine for the poor parents who had to endure the heat we had this fabulous Easter Monday. Photo: Some chicks hatching out on Easter Sunday April 12th at Errisbeg House, Roundstone. Richard de Stacpoole Engagement: Congratulations to Brid King (daughter of Mary King) and John Heanue from Derryrush, Letterfrack on their recent engagement. Roundstone Pony Show Queen: The selection of the Queen of the Roundstone Pony Show 2009 will take place at the Roundstone Community Hall on Wednesday June 24th. The winner will go forward to the Galway competition for the Rose of Tralee, and the event has proven to be hugely popular and very well supported in recent years. To participate or for further details contact Paddy McDonagh at 086 346 9372.
Connemara SportsView
AA and Al-Anon Meetings Connemara AA and Al-Anon meetings: Al-Anon: Mondays, Elm Tree Centre (Day room), 8-9 pm. AA: Tuesdays, Old School, Recess, 8.30 pm. Wednesdays, Clifden Day Centre, (behind the hospital) 8.30 pm. Thursdays, Clifden Day Centre, 8.30 pm. Fridays, Ellis Hall, Letterfrack, 9pm. Saturdays and Sundays, Clifden Day Centre 12 noon.
Antiques & Restorations
Prendergast Antiques. Lower Market St, Clifden. For that unique gift or special piece for your home why not peruse our extensive collection of antique furniture, silver, ceramics, collectibles, antique and reproduction glassware, prints, mirrors. Best prices, 32 county delivery, worldwide shipping, trade welcome. www.clifden.biz Phone 087-629-6195 anytime.
Airflow Renewable Energy Solutions, Ballybrit, Galway. 091-76-47-61.www.airflowireland.ie. Daikin Air to Water Heat Pumps. Ground Source Geothermal Heat pumps. IVT Heat Recovery Ventilation. Solar Panels. System Design & Project Support. Domestic & Commercial. SEI Approved 3 year warranty. Cut your oil bill by two-thirds with solar powered water heating. Call Michael Carey for a free no obligation quote. Testimonials from satisfied customers available. SEI grants available. Carey Solar Powered Systems. Sky Rd. Clifden. 086-603-9299. www.careysolar.com. Build your house or extension with energy-efficient timber framing. Over 15 years experience timber framing. Contact Pat O’Malley for a free quotation. Full service builder. C2. Limited Co. North Star Builders. 087-228-3862 or 085-780-6351. northstarbuilders@ live.ie. Creative Wood Flooring & Fireplace Warehouse. Kilroe, Inverin, Co. Galway. Factory prices, nationwide delivery. 091-553-995. 087-285-3114. www.creativewarehouse.ie
Automotive Omey Tyres Connemara’s 1st complete mobile tyre fitting centre. The Best Prices - Every Day – Guaranteed. 24 Hour - 7 Days. Call Out Service throughout Connemara. March special offer available on Saturdays only: Wholesale pricing on the following tyre sizes – 175/70/135, 175/65/14 reinforced, 195/65/15. Call Daniel Ryan on 095-44979 or 087-244-5129. D&N Auto Store. Suppliers of: Oils, parts, batteries, accessories, body kits, alloys, number plates. Now stocking tractor parts. Open 6 days 9am-6pm. Unit 4, Clifden Business Park. 095-30615. 087-274-4165.
Bicycles
Mannion’s Bikes. Bridge St, Clifden. 095-21160. Adult and children’s bikes. Rentals.
Cafés, Pubs & Restaurants
Books
Mutiara Asian Fusion Restaurant. The Square, Clifden. 095-22323. Thai, Malaysian, Chinese and our new Indian Cuisine. Open daily 5-11:30pm. O’Dowd’s Bar & Seafood Restaurant. Roundstone Harbour. Food served daily from 10am-9:30pm. Fresh seafood daily. 095-35809.
Clifden Bookshop offers a comprehensive range of titles with particular emphasis on local Connemara History, Irish literature, guide books, maps, best sellers, memoirs and book tokens. Also stockists of artist’s materials, cards & stationery. Provides ordering and mail-order service. The Clifden Bookshop, Main St, Clifden. 095-22020. theclifdenbookshop@eircom.net. King’s Paper Shop. Main St, Clifden. 095-21119. Lotto. Newspapers & magazines.
Building & Trade
Connemara Seamless Gutters. Suppliers of roof line cladding and guttering systems. Over 17 years experience. Aluminum, UPvc. Wide range of colours. Free quotations. 095-41180. Gerry: 086-103-1053. Peter: 085-760-4130. Auro Natural Paints...let your house breathe again! Auro products contain no environmentally harmful additives like petroleum based solvents. For more information about our extensive interior and exterior high grade paints and care products, call Matrix Custom Interiors on 091-39-57-07 or 086-366-5768. Painting and Decorating: Interior and exterior, timber floors sanded and varnished. Neat and tidy job guaranteed. Also offering garden and lawn maintenance service. Competitive rates. References available. Contact Johnny Coyne, Renvyle, 086-857-0302.
Connemara View Directory
May 2009
Page 15
Cafés, Pubs & Restaurants
Catering
Fashion
EJ King’s Bar and Restaurant. The Square, Clifden. 09521330. Open 7 days a week. We cater for all kinds of parties. Special 2 course and 3 course meal offers available. Live music every night including our Rock night every Friday. Great fun. Griffins Bar. Main St, Clifden. Serving hot food Mon-Fri from noon to 5pm. Live music Saturday nights from 10:30pm by Michael Carey & friends. 095-21370. Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Sky Road, Clifden. Open for dinner 7 nights a week. Early booking is advisable. Tuesday night is Irish Night. Entertainment nightly. 095-21201. info@abbeyglen.ie. www.abbeyglen.ie. Steam Café at the Station House Courtyard, Clifden. Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm. Mouth watering selection of salads, sandwiches & desserts. All homemade. Java Republic coffees and teas. Dinner & desserts available to order for collection. 095-30600 Mon-Sat 10:30-5:30 Oliver’s Seafood Bar and Restaurant, Cleggan. Fresh seafood. Bar food served daily until 9pm. Restaurant open Friday to Sunday. Live music on Saturday nights. 09544640.
A la Carty Catering: For all your home catering needs contact Joe and Olive Carty. 095-22842. 087-260-5961. alacartycatering@gmail.com.
Passenger. Clifden Station House Courtyard. 095-22770. 086-262-3667. Women’s Fashions. 20%, 30% & 40% off Spring & Summer stock from May 1st. Belle Blu. Market St., Clifden. Jewellery, fashion accessories, handbags, cosmetics and more. 095-21321. www.belleblu.com. Schu Concept. Bridge St., Clifden. Shoes for women, men & children. Handbags. Hat rental. 095-30606.
Financial/Legal
Cashel-Connemara Credit Union. Clifden Office at Unit 3, Tom Barry House 095-21101. Cashel Office 095-31128. Therese Thornton, Solicitor, Clifden, Co. Galway. Professional, comprehensive legal service at reasonable rates. Call (087) 2625385 or email ThereseThornton@gmail. com for advice or a quote with no obligation.
Computers & IT Supplies Two Dog Computer & Business Solutions. Website design services. Full computer repair services. 095-22194 or 086-404-3125. kennel@twodogcafe.ie Office Chat. Office supplies, digital cameras and printers, mobile phones. Vodafone, Meteor, 3 networks. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095-21911. sales@officechat.ie.
Driver Training
John Lyden – Clifden School of Motoring. Road Safety Authority and UK approved driving instructor. Lessons given in Toyota Yaris Diesel or an Automatic Car. For details and appointments ring 095-21170.
Employment
Chef/Cook required for Connemara Heritage Centre for summer season. Full & Part time hours available. 095 21808. Nanny looking for summer job. Exp nursery nurse in England looking for live in Nanny position in Connemara. sjash84@yahoo.co.uk. Pub staff required for busy Irish pub in Naples, Florida, U.S.A. For details contact Paddy Yank McDonagh (from Roundstone). 001-239-384-0800(in USA) or 086-346-9372. Email: paddyyank@yahoo.com.
Entertainment / Sports / Arts
Cards, Gifts & Flowers Connemara Florist. Main St, Clifden. 095-21565. Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm. connemaraflorist@gmail.com www.connemaraflorist.net. Homeware Plus & Shamrock Dry Cleaners. The Square, Clifden. Everything at discount prices! Household products and toiletries. Cards & gifts. Tools. So much more… 095-21348. The Bens. Bridge St, Clifden, Connemara. 086-103-1154. Now open. Irish music – Traditional, Country and local artists. CDs & DVDs. Large range of personalised gifts. Picture framing.
Cleaning Service
AdvanceClean+. Property, Garden & outdoor maintenance services. 086 -8077-199. advancecleanplus@yahoo.ie.
Page 16
Connemara Championship Golf Links. Mens & Ladies Open Competition. Every Wednesday €30pp through May & June. Visit the Connemara Golf Pro Shop. End of Stock Clearance Sale Up to 50% off. 095-23502. www. connemaragolflinks.com. Visitors Welcome. Station House Theatre, Clifden. Check out our fantastic line-up of cinema and live acts. www.stationhousetheatre.com. info@ stationhousetheatre.com 095-30303. Video rental and purchase. Music. Video Games. Video Vault. Main St, Clifden. 095-22033
May 2009
Food & Wine Des Moran Family Butchers. Main Street, Clifden. Home of the national award winning sausages, white pudding and black pudding. Catering to all of your meat and poultry needs. Pangur Bán. Gourmet breads and more by Award winning Chef John Walsh. Visit our market stall in Clifden & Moycullen. Custom cookery courses available. 095-41243. pban@indigo.ie www.pangurban.com. The Connemara Hamper. Lower Market St, Clifden. Large selection of Irish and European farmhouse cheeses. Organic wines, fruit and vegetables. Freshly baked breads and baguettes. Gourmet lunches and Illy coffee to go. Open all year. Phone for opening hours. 095-21054. Malone Meats. Lower Market St., Clifden. Stop in for quality and service from your local butcher. 095-21868. Clip out this ad to receive 10% off your purchase. Jagur Organic. Eat healthy and get your organic fruit and vegetables from your local organic grower at Friday markets in Clifden Square. Box delivery to your home available. Call Linda and Vincent 095-44855 or 087-691-0234. Kavanagh’s SuperValu. The Square, Clifden. 095-21182. Opening Hours: Monday-Thursday/Saturday 8am-9pm. Friday 8am-10pm. Sunday & Bank Holidays 8:30am-9pm. Clifden Fruit & Veg, Main Street, Clifden. Great prices every day on the best fruits and vegetables. Briquettes & coal. Open Mon-Sat 8:30am-6pm. 086-836-5864.
Connemara View Directory
Garden
Health & Beauty
Clifden Fruit & Veg, Main Street, Clifden. Open Mon-Sat 8:30am-6pm. Peat moss, compost, grow bags, bedding plants and more garden products. 086-836-5864. The Original Bagged Sand Supplier. 5% discount with this ad until the end of March if you buy 2 or more bags. Stonetech, Clifden. Call Seamus on 087-668-7437. Just need a bag or 2 of sand, gravel, decorative chippings or bark mulch? We are now supplying 25kg, 40kg and 500kg bags. Free delivery throughout Connemara. 095-43473. 087-130-7752. 086-199-1988. Mongan’s, Derryinver, Letterfrack. Connemara Kwik Kerb. Continuous Kerbing for Flowerbeds or Driveways. For more information contact Oliver Coyne. 095-35813 or 086-238-4195. olivercoyne@gmail. com. See samples at www.kwikkerb.org.
Do you suffer from anxiety, arthritis, asthma, back pain, digestive disorders, depression, headaches, lack of energy, ME, MS, muscle tension, stress? I f so, contact Lucy Lydon (BEHA Dip) on 087-757-9237. True Awakening Plexus Bio-Energy Therapy. Clifden Outreach Service by Cancer Care West at the Clifden Health Centre opposite Clifden Hospital on the 4th Thursday of every month. Drop- in, information and support service. 091-545-000. www.cancercarewest.ie. The 5 Rhythms® Movement Meditation Practice of Gabrielle Roth is a movement meditation practice- simple, profound, joyful and transforming. The practice helps to free our bodies, still our minds, reduce our stress levels and alleviate depression. Caitríona Nic Ghiollaphadraig, Finisglen, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway. 095-34664. Email: info@deorade.com Web-site: www.deorade.com Ciuin Health & Beauty. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30205. Caci Microdermabrasion, Danne MediPedi, Dermologica Skin Care, Glominerals, Xen-Tan, Fantasy Tan, Hot Stone Massage, Hand & Foot care, Specialised Waxing. Mon-Wed 9:30-6:30. Thurs/Fri 9-8, Sat 9-4:30. Reiki/Seichem. Experience the calm and healing energies of this treatment which is drug free and non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal on a mental, emotional, spiritual and physical level. Qualified Reiki/Seichem Master Practitioner, call Yvonne on 086-365-3266. Nicolas Kats, ND, Lic. Ac., is a Naturopathic Doctor and a licensed acupuncturist. Nicolas integrates acupuncture, herbal medicine, diet, supplements, homeopathy and hydrotherapy. 087-7714710. Clifden Holistic Centre. Kinesiology, Food Testing, Acupuncture, Bowen Therapy, Massage and Hypnotherapy at An Bhean Fheasa Health Shop, Lr Market St, Clifden.095 30671. Open Mon-Sat 9:30-6 p.m. Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30995. Eye exams. €35. Medical cards and PRSI welcome. Wide selection of designer frames and sunglasses. The Treatment Rooms at Abbeyglen Castle offering Hot Stone Massage, Luxury Yonka facials, Indian Head Massage, Reflexology, Zen Spa Pedicure/ manicure, waxing, California tanning. Non Residents welcome. Open 9-6 Monday to Saturday. Sunday 12 – 5. 095-21306. Connemara Chiropractic Family Health Clinic. Bridge St, Clifden. 095-21376. An Bhean Feasa will be hosting a Summer Extravaganza of talks, workshops, testing and tasting and information days with Afternoon Tea. The first Afternoon Tea will take place on Wed 20 May 2p.m to 3.30p.m and will be con-
Hair Rosie’s Ladies & Gents Hair Salon. Roundstone. 095 -35819. Mon 11-4, Tues-Sat 10-6. Specials: Mon-Wed 10% off all colour and until May 27th. Students and senior citizens get 10% discount. Full head highlights and cut €90. Late and early appointments at your convenience.
cerned with Aromatherapy Oils. There will be a short talk about the oils and their benefits followed by an opportunity to test some oils, as well as to enjoy a hand massage. Entry to each event is €3 per person. Sign up in store to guarantee your place. Lower Market St, Clifden. 095-30671.
Home Furnishings
Homeware Plus & Shamrock Dry Cleaners. The Square, Clifden. Everything at discount prices! Household products and toiletries. Cards & gifts. Tools. 095-21348. Creative Wood Flooring & Fireplace Warehouse. Kilroe, Inverin, Co. Galway. Factory prices, nationwide delivery. 091-553-995. 087-285-3114. www.creativewarehouse.ie Lydons Carpet & Furniture. Moycullen. 091-555-962.
Information Services & Media Does your partner? Call you names, constantly criticise you? Control your access to money/phone/car etc? Monitor your time, threaten you and the children? If so you may be in an abusive relationship. For free, friendly, confidential advice and support call D.V.R. @ 091-866-740. Clifden Citizens Information Centre. Free and confidential service to the public. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095.22000 and 087-130-1100. Thurs 7pm-8pm. Friday 10:30am- 3:30pm. Connemara Community Radio. Letterfrack. 095-41616. Connemara View Newspaper. Clifden. 095-22888.
Items for Sale or Rent
Connemara Bouncing Castles for hire for all occasions, supplied with rain covers, delivered, erected and collected. 095 21219.
Music
The Bens. Bridge St, Clifden, Connemara. 086-103-1154. Now Open. Irish Music – Traditional, Country and Local Artists. CDs & DVDs. Musical instruments. Large range of personalised gifts. Picture framing.
Office Supplies
Office supplies, digital cameras and printers, mobile phones. Vodafone, Meteor, 3 networks. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095-21911. sales@officechat.ie.
Connemara View Directory
May 2009
Page 17
Pets, Animals & Ponies
Properties - BER
Travel
BER. Improve your home, selling or renting. Grants and advice for BER certificates, insulation, heating and boiler upgrades and solar panels. SEI registered. Contact Aodan 087-066-0755. Email: aodanmacdonncha@gmail.com. Book now for your Building Energy Rating certificate which is compulsory for all homes for sale or rent from January 1st 2009. If you are buying or renting a new house or apartment now, you are entitled to a BER. BERs will be carried out by specially trained BER assessors, registered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). Call Sinead at Matt O’Sullivan Estate Agents on 095-21066 or e-mail property@mattosullivan.com www.mattosullivan.com. Listing properties for long term rental.
Pilgrimage to Medugorje. 22nd August 2009. €659 halfboard. Option 2: 4 nights Med. 3 nights Makarska Riviera. Flights from Knock. Contact Mary O’Toole. 095-33512. 087-134-3905.
TV/Satellite/Broadband
Wireless broadband. Aerial and satellite installation and repair. Peter Keane, Clifden. 095-21827. 087-668-7468. Lighthouse Networks provides a high quality broadband service throughout most of Connemara using the very latest wireless technologies. (Lo-Call) 076-6020502 or visit our web site at www.lightnet.ie.
Vehicles for Sale
Peugeot 406 Estate, 2L, HDi, 2001. 2 year NCT, 175,000 miles. Fully serviced. €2000 ono. 095-22808. Nissan Cargo 2.3. 1999. 88k. Fully services. DOE 1/2010. Green €1850 ono. 095-44855. Daihatsu Sirion 1.0. 2000. 86k. NCT 3/2010. Taxed 8/09. Green. New exhaust. 5dr. €1750 ono. 095-44855.
Websites
Website Design: Creative, professional and affordable websites by Cuán Mara Design, Letterfrack, Co. Galway. For pricing and to view portfolio visit www.cuanmaradesign. com. For a competitive quote phone Caroline Herriott on 086-0791918 or email caroline@cuanmaradesign.com.
Sand & Gravel The Original Bagged Sand Supplier. 5% discount with this ad until the end of March if you buy 2 or more bags. Stonetech, Clifden. Call Seamus on 087-668-7437.
Photography Services Photos Restored, Rescued & Reprinted. Have your photos digitally scanned, burned to cd, ready for print at Video Vault. Main St, Clifden. Call 095 22033.
Wedding Services
Properties
Wedding Videography by Pat Coyne. 095-43756. 086-406-2394. email: fiddisco@mac.com. www.fiddisco. com. Phone for a Free Demo DVD. Hat Hire. Wedding headpieces, occasion shoes, bags, scarves & jewellery. Schu Concept. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30606. Manicures & Pedicures. Anna is happy to customise her services to the special needs of the bride and wedding party. Anna’s Nail Bar. Bridge St. Clifden. 095-30001 Tues-Sat 10-5. Late eve. Thurs & Fri. Flowers for your special day. From small and intimate to large and extravagant, we can help you create your dream wedding - whatever your budget! Connemara Florist. Main St, Clifden. 095-21565. Mon-Sat 10am-5:30pm. connemaraflorist@gmail.com www.connemaraflorist.net.
Taxi Service
Letterfrack Village - Retail Unit to let immediately (60m²), great location for passing trade. Further information from Joan 087-258-0086. Clifden: 2-bedroomed apartment to let. Town centre. All mod cons. Spacious, modern and refurbished to a high standard. Responsible tenants sought. Available immediately. Contact 086-805-3760. For Rent: 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and rooms to let, 5 minutes walk from Clifden town centre, fully furnished. 095 44924 or 087-249-8097. Clifden: Modern 2-bedroomed cottage. 5 minutes from town centre. Parking. Oil-fired central heating. Available immediately. Contact 086-805-3760.
Page 18
May 2009
Connemara View Directory
Inishbofin Arts Festival May 8th to 10th
The 11th Inishbofin Arts Festival takes place on the island this weekend from May 8th to 10th. The Festival offers an impressive schedule of entertainment for all ages and tastes, featuring performances from national stars including Imelda May, Sean Tyrell and John Spillane, as well as home grown talent from Bofin’s own Peadar King, and a host of youth oriented events. There will also be art exhibitions by Aisling Coughlin and Padraic Rainey on display and for sale in the Community Centre during the Festival. A brief rundown of the weekend’s events is detailed below-for detailed descriptions of events and more information go to www.inishbofin.com. Friday May 8th 9pm: Official Opening by Local Clare Island Man Jackie O’Grady, Author of Green Road to Lighthouse and Cheese & Wine Reception - Broadcast by Connemara Community Radio. Opening music by Peadar King & Guests: Peadar King, an Inishbofin native, will be playing original material from his recently released album – The Nature of Flaws. Peadar will be joined by three fellow musicians on piano, Double Bass and drums. 11:30pm: The Cunninghams featuring Sharon Shannon, Eleanor Shanley & Dessie O’Halloran €25. Saturday May 9th 10 – 11.30am Teddy Bears Picnic for the Youngsters €5. 12-1pm Inishbofin National School Drama Play – Bofin Tales. With Megan Vine & Avi Ratnayake. Free entry. 11-3pm Coastline Walk with Dave McGrath €10 1-2pm 4-8 years. 2-3pm 9-16 years.Hip Hop Dance with all Ireland Hip Hop Champion Kiera Maloney €5 1-3pm Knitting Workshop by Ann O Maille €5. 1-4pm Falconry Display by Animal Magic €10. Event takes place at Sports field. 5:30pm: Poetry Reading supplied by Pat McMahon. Free entry. 7.30-9pm “Cry of the dreamer” A Musical Play by Sean Tyrell €10, €5 (under 16s). 10.30pm Imelda May with Small Cars (support) €25. Sunday May 10th 10-12pm Teddy Bears Picnic for the Youngsters €5 1-4.30pm: Archaeological Walk by Michael Gibbons – Monastic Retreat & Island Prison, A Journey in Time €10. 1-2pm 4-8 yrs, 2-3pm 9-16 yrs Hip Hop Dance Weekend €5. 2-4 pm Knitting Weekend by Ann & Niamh O Maille. 11pm John Spillane €15. All indoor events will take place in the Community Centre unless otherwise advertised and the Centre will also be the meeting point for the outdoor activities. For ticket bookings and more information on any aspect of the Festival, contact the Community Centre on (095) Tel: 095-45989 Fax: 095-45884. Email: bofinartstourism@hotmail.com or go to www.inishbofin.com.
Connemara ArtsView
25 years of Bog Week
Conamara Environmental Educational & Cultural Centre (CEECC) is planning a very special line up of events for 2009, celebrating 25 years of craic and community entertainment at its very best. A vibrant schools programme will run through the Festival with various scientists, artists and musicians visiting schools in the region. This is a multi layered festival which attempts to provide spaces for expression for various interests in the community embracing young and old, sporting, cultural and artistic. The whole festival is wrapped in the very best of trad music from an outstanding line up of local and visiting musicians and dancers. Friday May 22nd Ballinakill Active Age Club 1.30pm – Children from Letterfrack NS make music and dance for their older friends in Ellis Hall. Opening of Art Exhibition ‘A Sense Of Place’in the Connemara National Park – 8.00pm. Trad Session - Oiche Chonamara -The Bards Den 9.45pm with Marcus Hernon & Family, Don Stiff, Frank and Theresa Custy & friends. Trad Session – The Renvyle Inn – 9.45pm with Noel Shine and Mary Green. Saturday May 23rd Music Workshops for all ages in Letterfrack NS– 11.00am – 3.30pm. Conamara Bog Week Grand Prix Cycling Race65km event starts 4.00pm – sign in at The Bards Den at 3.00pm.Info contact John James 087912-0910. Opening of Art Exhibition – ‘Celebration of Landscape’ by renowned German artist Hardy Langer in Letterfrack NS, 8.00pm. Trad Session: The Bards Den – 9.35pm with Mary Staunton, Mary Shannon, Laoise Kelly and friends. Sunday May 24th The Gogarty Cup Cycling Race-100km event starts at 12 noon in Letterfrack. Sign in at The Bards Den 11.00am. Info contact John James 087 9120910. The Fun Run – sponsored 5km event from Tullycross to Letterfrack, starting 3.30pm. Run, walk, skip or jump!!.All monies go to youth projects run by FORUM. Trad Session – The Bards Den – 4.30pm with Seamus Heneghan and friends. Trad Session - Molly’s Bar – 7.30pm with John O’Halloran and Gerry Whelan. Friday May 29th Trad Session – Molly’s Bar – 9.45pm with Mat Kane and Gary Quinn. Trad Session – The Renvyle Inn – 9.45pm with Don Stiff, Liz Kane, Edel Fox and friends. Saturday May 30th The Conamara Walkabout – an exploration of landscape in the company of poets, painters, scientists and musicians. Meeting at Letterfrack NS at 10.00am. Fee €20. Trad Session – The Bards Den – 9.45pm with Maire and Conor Kane and friends. Sunday 31st May Sean Nós Workshops – Ellis Hall 4.00pm with the Cunningham family. Adults €10; under 16’s €5. Trad Session – Molly’s Bar – 5.00pm with legendary singer/songwriter Sean Tyrell and Johnny Mullins. Continued on next page
May 2009
Page 19
Bog Week 2009 continued Sunday 31st May Trad Session – The Finale - The Bards Den 9.45pm Eoin O’Neill, Quintan Cooper, Maire and Conor Kane and friends. The Hostel Gig 7.30pm with Van Django - gig plus candlelit dinner contact Stephen 095 41132. Fee €20. Monday 1st June Book Launch ‘The Naturalist View’ Renvyle House Hotel 3.30pm. A publication in honour of Tomas Burke who was a marine scientist who worked in our area. Connemara Lamb Pie: Launch of Tim’s Kitchen – a range of produce produced by award winning chef Tim O’Sullivan of Renvyle House Hotel. For more details on any events taking place during Bog Week 2009 check out www.ceecc.org , e-mail lfrack@eircom.net or call (095) 41034/43443.
Gypsy Jazz
One of the many highlights of Bog Week 2009 will be the annual Hostel Gig with this year’s entertainment provided by Van Django, an acoustic string quartet from Vancouver, Canada, whose music is well-rooted in the gypsy jazz of 1930’s Paris and in particular, the inspirational in duo d of Stephane a Grappelli and a Django Reinhardt. in Featuring in Cameron Wilson W (Violin), Budge B Schachte (Guitar) (G Finn Manniche M (Guitar) (G and Laurence L Mollerup (Double Bass) this foursome play th their original compositions and quirky arrangements in an action packed musical universe they call, “acoustic string hot jazz!” To book a place at what promises to be a great evening’s entertainment, complete with candlelit dinner, contact Stephen at (095) 41132 and for more information on the band, go to www.vandjango.com.
Living the Wildlife in Connemara
Viewers of RTE One on Wednesday May 6th will have spotted some familiar scenes when “Living the Wildlife”, the highly regarded nature series produced by GMARSH TV Productions, featured High Island, off the Connemara coastline. In this second series, Emmy-award winning wildlife cameraman, Colin Stafford Johnson has taken to the road in his campervan once again, on a journey of discovery across the length and breadth of Ireland. During his visit to High Island, Colin ended up sleeping in ruined monastic settlements on the deserted island while exploring and documenting the he stunning wildlife that surrounds us all. Another local connection to the series was the inclusion of Letterfrack’s Mairéad Tucker-Mamalis on the production team responsible for this highly acclaimed series. The aim of Living the Wildlife is to inspire and encourage the viewer to get out and explore and experience the natural world for themselves, and what better area than Connemara in which to do just that? The 8 part series which began on Tuesday May 5th will continue at 7pm weekly on RTE One. Photo: A fledgling chick on High Island, Connemara.
Music and Voices “Raise the Roof” An uplifting and highly enjoyable evening was had by the large crowd in attendance at the “Raise the Roof” Fundraising Concert in aid of Christchurch
Page 20
Clifd on A Clifden April il 26 26th. h P Primarily i il organised i d by b Cantairí C ií Chonamara soloist Alannah Robins and with piano accompaniment by Sister Karol O’Connell OSB, Kylemore Abbey, the evening featured stunning performances by Aedin Halpin, Rod McGahon, Emer Joyce and Roisin Walsh, Jane Stark, Barbara Ann McCabe, Some Like it Hot, Annabella Lydon, Marie-Noelle Biddulph, Maree McGlynn, and Alannah Robins. The young members of the Kylemore Youth Choir were outstanding, and Cantairí Chonamara rounded off the evening with a wonderful rendition of Mozart’s Regina Coeli. Photo above: A rapturous round of applause rounds off the evening’s entertainment at the “Raise the Roof” Fundraising concert.
Cantairí Chonamara
Cantairí Chonamara recently joined forces with University College Cork Campus Choir and NUI Galway Concert Orchestra, headed by conductor Hugh Kelly and our own soloist, Alannah Robins, in a concert at St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church, Galway and UCC’s Aula Maxima, to perform Mozart’s Regina Coeli, Kyrie and Schubert’s Symphony no.2. Both concerts were a great success, as was the “Raise the Roof” Church of Ireland Fundraising Concert in which the Connemara choir and some of its members played a major role. Cantairi Chonamara are now recruiting new members. For further information contact Jean Mullan on 095 34633.
Ceol Theatre Musical Review Night The next Musical Review Night will place on 29th of May and will feature Movie Soundtracks. “Hello Dolly” at Station House Theatre Show dates “Hello Dolly” June 11th, 12th, 13th ,18th & 19th at 8pm, June 14th, 20th & 21st at 1pm. Children’s Musical Movie The Children’s Musical Movie will be shown at the start of June (see posters for details). If you would like to be a part of any of Ceol Theatre’s productions please contact John on 087-750-4697.
Marine Photo Exhibition
An exhibition of marine photographs taken in the vicinity of Cleggan by photographer Heather Greer opens on Thursday 14th May, at 6.00pm. The maritime theme of the exhibition, which is a joint one between Heather and Galway-based photographer Fiona Belton, is timed to coincide with the arrival in Galway of the Volvo Ocean Race. ‘Landfall’, the title of Heather Greer’s exhibition, has a double meaning for her. It marks her own landfall and her own landhold in Cleggan, in West Connemara, her chosen home now for some years. The photos in ‘Landfall’ were all taken in the vicinity of Cleggan and they reveal her fascination with this lovely part of Connemara. Heather’s photographs have previously been exhibited locally in Connemara. The exhibition, on the top floor of Galway’s Town Hall Theatre, runs from Thursday 14th May until Thursday 18th June. Admission is free and all are welcome.
May 2009
May Video Releases Yes Man Carl Allen is at a standstill. No future... Until ti the day he enrolls into a personal so development program based b on a very simple idea: say sa yes to everything! Carl discovers d with amazement the th magical power of “Yes”, and a sees his professional and romantic ro life turned upside down d overnight. Stars: Jim Carrey C & Zooey Deschanel.
Th D The Day Th The E Earth th S Stood Still In The Day The Earth Stood Still, a remake of the classic 1951 science-fiction film, Keanu Reeves stars as Klaatu a humanoid alien who arrives on Earth accompanied by an indestructible, heavily armed robot, Gort, and a warning to world leaders that their continued agn gression will lead to annihilation S K R by a species watching from afar. Stars: Keanu Reeves & Jennifer Connelly. Bedtime Stories A family B comedy c about a hotel handyman whose w life changes when the lavish bedtime b stories he tells his niece and a nephew start to magically come c true. Stars: Adam Sandler, Keri K Russell & Guy Pearce. Frost/Nixon When disgraced F President Richard Nixon agreed P to an interview with wit jet-setting television personality, David Frost, he thought he’d found the key to saving his tarnished legacy. But, with a name to make and a reputation to overcome, Frost became one of Nixon’s most formidable adversaries and engaged the leader in a charged battle of wits that changed the face of politics forever. Stars: Michael Sheen & Frank Langella. Defiance Jewish brothers in D Nazi-occupied N Eastern Europe escape c into the Belarussian forests, where w they join Russian resistance ta fighters and endeavor to build b a village in order to protect themselves th and about 1,000 Jewish is non-combatants. Stars: Daniel Craig, C Live Schreiber & Jamie Bell. B Video V releases courtesy of Video Vault, V Main St., Clifden. 095-22033.
Connemara ArtsView
Slyne Head Lighthouse The Slyne Head Lighthouse or lighthouses, as there are two of them, are located off the tip of Errismore, although only one now functions as a lighthouse. They are the westernmost point of County Galway and are visible from many parts of the coast of Connemara. The station is built on an island called Oileanaimid, or the island of wood. This name is possibly derived from the amount of flotsam and jetsam, mostly wood, which would have washed up there. As anyone sailing the coast of Connemara would know, there are many areas of great danger, hidden shoals and rocks, and rocky islands that are often hidden in mist and cloud. Nowadays the sailor or fisherman has a vast array of instruments to help keep them on their course and to alert them to danger. Just think though what it must have been like for mariners in centuries past. Look at the Spanish Armada, and see how many of them were wrecked on these hidden dangers off the west coast. In the early 19th century, trade was expanding. As the road network was so bad, particularly in the West of Ireland, and in most cases non- existent, the sea was the obvious means of transportation. Galway and Westport were the two biggest ports along this stretch of coast, and of course Clifden was in its infancy. John D’Arcy, who had founded the town in 1812, was doing everything in his h power to make the town a success, and he was trying to highlight the importance of Clifden Bay as the safest harbour between the two major seaports. The merchants of Galway joined with the City Corporation, the Harbour Board and others to lobby Trinity House for the proper lighting of the approaches to Galway Port. The control of lighthouses around the coast of England and Ireland had been given to Trinity House, and they were to bring a unified approach to the surveying, building and maintenance of lighthouses and beacons. This situation replaced the old fashioned method of granting franchises and licenses to almost anyone; some operators were less than honest or trustworthy. The Galway lobby had succeeded in having Mutton Island and Aran lit, but the coast of Connemara was still a danger. It seemed unlikely that anything was to be done about the situation, as Trinity House felt it unnecessary to waste time and money on this little used sea route. Years of pressure were needed to change their minds. Some of this pressure came from outside the area, but there was much support from the people of Clifden, Roundstone and Connemara in general. Finally, George Halpin, who was Inspector of Lighthouses and Works, a job he took over from his father, also called George, was asked to survey that part of the coast. His report recommended that there should be two lights at Slyne Head; these two lights would help distinguish that station from Clare Island to the north, and the Aran Islands to the south.
Connemara ArtsView
Although Trinity House had been against the idea at first, they now readily agreed and the work was sanctioned. It was also agreed that the towers would be built. The design was by George Halpin, who also supervised the building carried out by the Board’s own workmen. The work began in the early 1830’s. There were two dwellings built for each tower with a range of sheds and outhouses. Although some stone, mainly granite and sandstone, was carried out from the mainland, most of the construction used the local stone. As if to demonstrate the dangers associated with that stretch of water and the need for the lighthouses, there were two accidents, one early on, in which a boatman died and the second in 1836, a short time before completion. In this second accident, eight men were drowned. The two towers were 79 feet high and both had lights, one fixed and the other revolving. These came into operation for the first time in October 1836, although the work was not finished on the buildings. It is amazing to think that families lived on this rocky place. If you have ever been lucky enough to visit it you will know what I mean. It must have been a tough existence and difficult to get supplies if the weather turned bad, which it frequently did. The most famous of these bad weather periods, well documented in Jackie O Grady’s book, “The Green Road to the Lighthouse”, lasted for three months, and at that stage there were only the keepers. What would have happened if there had been women and children? In 1887 it was decided to o Slyne Head’s lights. It took a discontinue one of while for this work to be carried out and when it was, the darkened tower had its lantern and granite blocking removed so as not to block the light to the south. In 1898 the keepers and their families were moved off the island and housed in temporary accommodation in Ballyconneely before moving to new buildings in Clifden. The families lived in Clifden and the children attended school locally while the fathers took their turns on duty. Growing up with children from the lighthouses, as we called them, was a bit strange, as they seldom stayed long in any one place. The various accents were also unusual at that time in Connemara. These dwellings were sold and the lighthouse children were a thing of the past, as were the keepers, as Slyne Head eventually went automatic like the other lighthouses around our coast. So as you drive or walk around Connemara at night, look out for the beam of white light flashing through the sky. If you look carefully enough, you will see that it flashes twice within every 15 seconds. Spare a moment to think of the lives that have been lost, and more importantly, those that have been saved by these flashes of light. Breandan O Scanaill Photo by Aidan Healy from the book “The Lighthouses of Ireland” by Richard M. Taylor. Published by The Collins Press.
May 2009
Connemara Community Radio Weekly Schedule Broadcasting 11 am to 9 pm each day on 87.8 FM & 106.1 FM Weather Forecast and Community Notices at 3 pm, 4 pm and 8 pm. Sponsored by Broderick Electric, Sweeney Oil and Gannon Sports. * Indicates Sponors
Monday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with
Heather Heanue and Colleen Currran. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Hooked on Music with John Duane. *Clifden Chamber of Commerce. 6-7pm: Alternate Weeks - As Gaeilge with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphadraig OR Heyday with Sinead Mannion & Bobbi O Regan. 7-8pm: Talk Sportwith Vivian Cotter. 8pm: Roundstone Report with Richard de Stacpoole and Anne Conneely. 8.15-9pm: Ann’s Mixed Bag with Ann Conneely. Tuesday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Cliona Sheehan. *Connemara View Newspaper. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Louisa Jack. 5.05-6pm: Jack’s Spot with Jack Tomlinson. 67pm: Live with John Dunne. 7-8pm: Community Matters with Pat Walsh. *Tullycross and Cashel Credit Unions. 8pm: Cashel Report with Bernard Lee. 8.30-9pm: Classical Half Hour with Pat O’Toole. Wednesday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Mary Roe. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Mickey Mac.*SuperValu Clifden. 5.05-6pm: Double Trouble with Mickey Mac. Inishbofin Report returning soon. 6- 7pm: My Kind of Music with Martin Conroy. *ClifdenSupply Centre.7-8pm: Lift the Latch with Michael O’ Neill and Helen King. 8pm: Clifden Report with Breandan O’Scanaill. 8.15-9pm: Music with Pat Keaney. Thursday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Cathy Keane and Brendan O’Malley. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Kathleen O’Brien. 5.05-6pm: Fáilte with Mary Corbett Joyce. 6- 7pm: Take it Easy with Michael O’Toole. 7-8pm: The Great Outdoors with Breandan O’Scanaill. *Acton Construction.8 pm: Cleggan Claddaghduff Report with Mary Gordon O’Toole. 8.15-9pm: The Arts Programme. Various presenters. Friday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Samantha Heanue & Priscilla Diamond. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tonya Ni Chuirínn. 5.05-6pm: Alternate Weeks: The Friday Feeling with Margaret Sheehan and Liam Joyce. 6-7pm: Lyrical Allsorts with Linda O’Malley. 7-8pm: Injury Time with Brendan Ridge. *AIB Clifden. 8pm: Ballyconneely Report with John O’ Malley. 8.15-9pm: American Country with Brendan Ridge. *Alcock & Brown Hotel. Saturday: 1am-12 Noon: Monkeying Around with Heather Kearney. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tonya Ni Chuirrín. 5.05-6pm: Pretty Good Day so Far! with Sean Halpenny. 6- 7pm: Blue Highways with Lol Hardiman. 7-9 pm: Music Spectacular Alternate Weeks - Shelter from the Storm with Dave O’ Halloran OR Coast to Coast with Paul Phelan. Sunday: 10-11am: Sounds a Bit Irish with Eamonn McLoughlin. *Mulchrone Bros, Westport. .11am-12noon: Mass from Clifden. 12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. 4-5pm: Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Words 7 Music with Kathleen Faherty . 6- 7pm: Footappin’ Time with Tom Mongan. 7-8pm: Senior Side of the Street with Josephine De Courcey. *FORUM. 8pm: Ballinakill Report with Paddy Gannon. Insihbofin Report with Tommy Burke. 8.15-9pm: Decades of Hits with Michael Coyne.
Page 21
Bogman 49
Bogman Across 1 Suitable song for fancy dance publicity. (6) 4 Give voice when putting it on in bare surroundings. (8) 9 Worn out by such negativity in the spirit of the east. (6) 10 N and M and E, getting together, sound like a most unfriendly type. (5) 11 GMLE in other words in 1009 in Rome. (3) 13 Not best pleased at being included in the FalkirkEdinburgh area. (5) 14 Like strangers who tell an untruth during a brief response. (6) 15 Looked happy to go the distance in senior division initially. (6) 17 I leave, going to be soundly beaten. (4) 18 Peaceful coexistence brought about by injury on your head. (7) 21 Feels left out of the charges. (4) 24 Watch me turn before my superior can make an impression in relief situation. (6) 26 Being sick back in the flat, and not looking too healthy either. (6) 28 Sounds as if throwing a couple of peas into beer can turn it into cider. (5) 29 It’s a poetry class in modernism. (3) 30 Diagram of how to get Red Beret out of consecutive sentences. (5) 31 Get an average score on the golf course, then go off and get a birdie! (6) 32 Give permission for the application of pressure by deprivation. (8) 33 Inappropriate kiss? OK as long as it’s in Booth’s. (6) Down 1 Boast about family delaying journey. (7) 2 There’s no return in liking the kiddies’ movie. (4,4) 3 Given to those who do the best commercials about conflict? (6) 5 Copy kiss at end of letter or top. (4) 6 It would be most desirable to place European leader at the centre of Dail dissolution. (5) 7 Steers around yawning extremities, looking for gas. (6) 8 Divorcee did some modelling but was outed. (7)
Connemara Crossword 55
34. Trench, channel (6) 35. Concurrence (9) Down 2. Impure arbitrator (6) 3. Phenomenon (6) 4. Recount, describe (6) 5. Taking care of (7) 6. Heaviness (6) 7. Dipsomaniac (8) 8. Fragile (9) 11. Fruit of the oak (5) 13. Location, place (4) 17. American state, capital St Paul (9) 19. Type of paint (8) 20. Straight edge (5) 22. Sense (4) 23. Unprepossessing
April Winners
Bogman 48 Muiris Carrick, Cleggan Crossword 54 Michelle Mullen, Aillebrack pooch (7) 25. Exact retribution (6) 27. Edict, law (6) 28. Xenophobia (6) 29. Ease off (6)
SUDOKU
Crossword Across 1. U Boat (9) 9. Great fear (6) 10. Type of firework (8) 11. Order of the day, schedule (6) 12. Detain, apprehend (6) 14. Be irritated (4) 15. Stay in bed (3, 2) 16. Canadian capital (6) 18. Titanic’s nemesis (7) 21. Non-believer (7) 24. Of the nerves (6) 26. Cow’s milk sac (5) 30. Calf meat (4) 31. Ebullient (6) 32. Nuns title (6) 33. Most polluted (8)
Enter crossword answers into a draw of correct answers for a voucher for Homeware Plus in Clifden by May 27th.
Page 22
May 2009
12 Religion doesn’t look like a good answer for urban area of Pakistan. (9) 14 At a party, evil turns up in the form of a real hunky guy. (6) 16 Having made no changes, complained about it. (6) 19 Are they spotted when ale drops get spilled? (8) 20 There’s no shortage for the company that has such a devout following. (7) 22 Being hassled, hustles the detectives. (7) 23 It’s just the standard, no-return bottle. (6) 25 Africa’s loss of Congolese leader organises a hunt there. (6) 27 Carelessly using paint in an unsuitable manner. (5) 29 State that one only said ‘Hello!’ briefly between rings. (4)
Quiz: We Have A Winner! April’s What Do You Know? Quiz 7 inspired a wealth of entries. Congratulations to Walter McDonagh of Moycullen who was the first to send in a full set of correct answers and has won the €70 prize which has been accumulating since last September. So, we are back to the beginning again with prize money of €10 for 12 correct answers for Quiz 8.
What Do You Know? Quiz 8 Questions Geography: Which country contains the largest number of active volcanoes History: Who appeared on a World War I recruitment poster above the words `Your country needs YOU`? Sport: To which animal is South African rugby union player Bryan Habana often compared? Math: Which weighs more a pound or gold or a pound of feathers? Science: Common, Water and Pygmy are types of which British mammal? Cooking: Cocoa fat or sugar is called what in cooking terminology? Politics: What US President’s political slogan contained references to chickens and car garages? Music: George Bernard Shaw`s play `Pygmalion` was adapted to become which musical? Art: Which artist had Blue and Rose periods? Entertainment: The Tardis is an object used in which famous TV show? Literature: In which famous novel would you find Ralph, Simon and Piggy? Local Interest: What was the Roman name for Ireland?
April Quiz Answers Geography: What is the highest mountain that is not in a mountain range? Answer: Mount Kilimanjaro. http://www.quizzone.co.uk/questionsbycategory/Geography/0/answers.html. History: Henry the Eighth had six wives what were their nationalities? Answer: English, Spanish and German. http:// www.quiz-zone.co.uk/questionsbycategory/History/0/ answers.html Sport: What sized ball is a game of netball played with? Answer: Size 5. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/questionsbycategory/ Sport/0/answers.html Math: In maths, what name is given to the series of numbers where each number is the sum of the previous two? Answer: Fibonacci Sequence. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/search_qs.ph p?search=math&start=&display=answers Science: What is made using soda, lime and silica? Answer: Glass. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/questionsbycategory/ Science%20and%20Nature/0/answers.html Cooking: A mixture of onion, celery and carrots is called? Answer: Mirepoix. http://www.funtrivia.com/submitquiz. cfm?quiz=159499 General Knowledge: In heraldry, what colour is gules? Answer: Red. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/questionsbycategory/ General%20Knowledge/0/answers.html Politics: On which day of the week are general elections held in Britain? Answer: Thursday. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/ search_qs.php?search=elections&start=&display=answers Music: By what name is Schubert`s Symphony No. 8 better known? Answer: Unfinished Symphony. http://www.quiz-zone. co.uk/questionsbycategory/Music/0/answers.html Art: According to Douglas Adams what number is the meaning of life? Answer: 42. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/ questionsbycategory/Art%20and%20Literature/0/answers. html Entertainment: How many boxes are used in the UK version of Deal Or No Deal? Answer: 22. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/ questionsbycategory/TV%20and%20Films/0/answers.html Literature: In which novel would you find Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy? Answer: Little Women. http://www.quiz-zone.co.uk/ questionsbycategory/Art%20and%20Literature/20/answers. html
Connemara View Newspaper
The mad rush of gardening has finally arrived; grass has to be cut regularly and deadheading of flowers needs to take place on an almost daily basis. Watering has to be done, especially for the containers, but it is very important to remember your newly planted trees and shrubs. These need water for some time, at least until the roots get established. A lot of people assume that if it rains there is no need to water plants, and certainly if the rain is heavy, the shrubs and trees might be okay, but containers need watering almost all the time, as the leaves act as mini umbrellas and keep the water away from the soil. Even though I have started with all the jobs to be done, this is one of the best times in the garden. There is a huge range of flowers and shrubs, a mixture of late spring and early summer. Trees are all in leaf and blossoms are everywhere, the long days are now stretching out in front of us. If you were able to get ahead of yourself, then there will even be time to sit and relax now and then. It is important that you don’t get into such a situation that it is all work and no play in the garden. It is a place for relaxation. I have noticed over the last few years, and I know this is something that others have commented on as well; everything is flowering earlier, and this change has been happening fairly quickly. At a recent Connemara Garden Club meeting, Lorna McMahon from Galway mentioned this. She opens the garden in May and expects to have the bluebells flowering in the woods; they were already there in early April. I don’t know if this is global warming or not but there is certainly a change. I have been asked about growing some culinary herbs. I like herbs scattered through other plants. As well as being decorative, they often help other plants in the fight against bugs. The smell of some herbs can be too strong for some insects, e.g. garlic planted with roses is supposed to keep greenfly, amongst other pests, under control. To check out such companion planting, there is plenty of information on the web, and I did write about it before. For practical advice about companion planting, visit the Irish Organic centre at Rosinver, Co Leitrim. I wrote about them before and have found their advice straightforward. If you have space, plant herbs which will go rampant on their own, e.g. beds of mint are so beautiful, prolific and scented. I have one bed which is between a concrete path and a wall, no more than a foot wide, but already after one year I am giving plants away. The
Connemara View Newspaper
other great thing about this bed is that as you walk along the path, the smell of the mint wafts up to meet you. For anyone interested in making a more formal bed you could make an herb wheel, or a checker-board pattern. These take a bit of work, as you have to design out the hard landscape first, making a wheel shape out of concrete, stone or brick first, or laying concrete slabs to act as the white squares as on a chess board. Obviously you don’t need as many squares as that, but even 7 or 8 squares by 2 will take time. Also, soil is very important. Drainage is the key, herbs do not like having their roots wet. A lot of herbs we use are from hot climates and naturally grow in sandy, often rocky soil, so it is a good idea to put plenty of grit in your soil mix. Once you have the soil and hard landscape ready, it is time to plant. Pick the herbs that you are most likely to want for the kitchen. I love having parsley, thyme, sage, marjoram, rosemary, chives, mint, lovage, fennel and bay available almost all year. Obviously this is only a small selection, and you may want to add more, so make your list and then add a few different ones just for the fun of it. Plant these out into the squares left blank or into the space between the spokes. If you have enough space, plant one type per space, if not, mix them to suit yourself. Do remember that some of these herbs can grow very tall, so position these carefully. Finally on this subject, it is possible to grow herbs in pots, window boxes or even hanging baskets. I use golden marjoram as edging for window boxes. Its colour is great; its pale pink flowers lovely, and if ever I need a few leaves I have an easy reach supply. The great advantage to pots is that you can make the soil suitable to each herb, and get the best position, full sun, shade or whatever. There are plenty of summer flowering bulbs available at this time, and now is the time to get them in place. Gladioli,
May 2009
which are not actually bulbs but corms, are big favourites with a lot of people, very showy, and great cut flowers. Unfortunately they are often planted in the “soldiers on sentry duty” fashion, rows of them one after another. As with most things, I prefer to see them mixed and in groups. This also has an advantage of reducing the need to stake them as they prop each other up. If they do need to be supported, one stake is usually enough to keep them upright. They prefer a sunny and well drained site. I usually don’t lift mine each year, but if your garden gets very wet and cold, it is a good idea to take them up in autumn and store in a dry cool place for replanting the following spring. New plants can be obtained from the little cormlets which grow around the parent plant; these can be planted in pots and should flower in a couple of years.
It is also now time to plant up your containers. As with any aspect of gardening, don’t be afraid to experiment with these. Small trees and shrubs can look great in various pots, under-planted with summer bedding or fairly low herbaceous plants. I also find that pots are a great place to get slips to root. The soil is usually rich, and as you will be watering regularly they will not dry out. Most of my hydrangea cuttings are started off in this way. Even if the cutting does not work it is simple to pull it out without doing too much damage. It is also a bit of fun to experiment with different containers. Terra cotta and plastic pots are the two most common, but timber pots can look great, especially if the bark is still on the wood. Metal containers are also gaining popularity. I like to go for a mix, and things like galvanised buckets and metal waste paper baskets add to the mix. But these have to have holes drilled in them to allow water to drain. Put masking tape at the places where you are going to make the holes, this gives the drill bit a secure grip. As always, enjoy the garden and take time to explore the sights and sounds which can be found there. Happy gardening. Breandan O Scanaill
Page 23
Healthy Living Learning about Herbs Stress is a Killer! Every day, from the media, we hear how difficult life is and how there is much more doom and gloom to come. We are living in a time of uncertainty - can I pay my bills, will I still have a job, will I be able to afford my mortgage or will I lose my home? These questions and others can plague a person, causing immense stress, which leads to ill health which leads to more stress and there is no doubt that stress is a killer. It causes imbalances in the body, increases blood pressure and heart rate. So what can be done to alleviate stress when one has no control over government policy, market forces and the economy? First of all, take a deep breath...and ask yourself-will any of this matter in 100 years? The answer is no. This is one way of getting things into perspective. But in the short term, how can you deal with day to day stress? Symptoms may differ from person to person but some of the most common symptoms might be: difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, difficulty breathing, poor immune system – colds etc, irritability, crying, loss of libido, slow wound healing, anxiety, tired all the time, hard to get up in the morning, food cravings, finding it hard to make decisions, diarrhoea or constipation. There are other symptoms. Some of these could point to adrenal gland overload and therefore an endocrine imbalance and some could point to nutritional deficiencies. However, there are many common sense measures that you can take to protect yourself from the dangers of stress and there are herbs that can help the body to cope and which support the nervous system. Avena Sativa is a very gentle herb – suitable for children too – and is very supportive when stress is ongoing, but still at a low level. It also acts as a tonic when there is nervous and mental exhaustion and can be taken long term. It is very soothing.
Passiflora Complex is a mixture of herbs, and is an excellent choice if you feel really wound up and irritable and nervy. It works on the nervous system and on the muscular system, helping both to relax. This herbal complex can reduce anxiety and panic as well as helping to restore good sleeping patterns. If taken going to bed it can prevent the mind from going over and over things. Valerian is a natural sedative and has been used as such for thousands of years. It is non-addictive and non habit forming so it can be used safely as a sedative when sleeping is difficult. It is very useful during times of moderate to severe stress and when a person is suffering from muscle tension and spasm. It is faster working
Page 24
Health Problems & Natural Medicine Additives-Those Hidden Extras When we look at the food we eat, we cannot see many of the hidden ingredients that can have serious implications for our health. Here is a rundown of some of the most common food additives and what they really mean. Sugars This is a huge issue. Boxed cereals are up to 40% sugar, and this is before piling on those heaping tablespoons of white sugar! Tomato ketchup is 25% sugar, and sodas 10%. Various sugars may be present in any one processed food – glucose, fructose, maltose, dextrose. Americans eat approximately 150 pounds of sugar per person per year. That is half a pound a day. The body simply is not prepared to absorb these vast amounts of pure sugars. Blood sugar is chronically driven far beyond normal levels. This has various consequences; diabetes, obesity, heart disease, hypoglycemia. Persistent spiking of blood sugar from consuming fast sugars is a form of stress. This pattern, as with stress in general, inhibits the immunity system. Since cancer is largely a problem of the immunity system, it is essential that people with cancer avoid refined sugar. Of the refined sugars the worst is fructose, which is cheaply obtained from corn. It has less effect on the satiety reflex than other sugars. This means that fructose is less filling, making it more likely to be overeaten without being aware of it. Fructose is a major contributor to the obesity epidemic in the USA. Stay away from fructose. Sweeteners Examples are aspartame (Nutrasweet, Equal), cyclamate (Sucaryl), and saccharine. The health aspects of artificial sweeteners are controversial. Cyclamate was banned in the 70’s as a possible carcinogen. For me, the problem is the taste of sweetness. Sweetness means sugars or carbohydrates. The taste of sweetness conveys to the sophisticated digestive tract the message that sugar/carbohydrates are on the way down. What if there are no carbohydrates to go with the sweetener? Diet soda tastes sweet but has zero carbohydrates. Taken alone, this is deceptive. It can disrupt the sophisticated hormonal processing of carbohydrates. When eating an artificial sweetener, be sure there are some real carbohydrates. It is about honesty. A natural alternative to artificial sweeteners is the herb Stevia. It is safe but, as
above, it should be taken with carbohydrates. Salt The problem is common white salt, or table salt. It is ubiquitous in processed foods. White salt is a modern creation. It is processed and is devoid of minerals other than sodium and chloride. Let’s compare white salt to whole, unprocessed salt. Whole salt is what is left over after drying a bit of ocean water. This salt is packed with minerals. A craving for salt is often an indication of mineral deficiency. In this case, the person who perpetually loads up on white salt will never be satisfied, and he would do well to switch to whole salt. Real salt has two characteristics not found in white salt: sticky/wet, and colorful (grey, reddish). When buying salt, look for these two characteristics, stickiness and color. It is not enough to buy “sea salt” since it may be processed (white, dry). Good brands of whole salt include Guerande, Celtic, and Himalaya. Ask your health store to source a whole salt. In future, buy only whole salt, and throw out any white salt at home. Nitrates & nitrites These chemicals, widely used by the meat industry, are added to meats as a preservative to maintain the redness of meat and to add flavour. Processed meats, e.g. sausage, bacon, patés, are particularly high in nitrates and nitrites. The problem with these chemicals is that they bind with amino acids (the building blocks of protein) to form nitrosamines. Mixing nitrates with meat will create nitrosamines. Eating nitrates will mix these chemicals with digestive enzymes and internal tissues made of protein to create nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are extremely carcinogenic. Those with cancer of the digestive tract (esophageal, stomach, bowel) or ulceration of the digestive tract (stomach, inflammatory bowel disease like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s), must stay away from nitrates and nitrites. Read the labels of processed meats and look for the words nitrate and nitrite, e.g. sodium nitrate, potassium nitrite. Ask your butcher for meats and homemade sausage free of them. Nicolas Kats ND, Lic. Ac, practices in Galway (091-583260) and Clifden (087-7714710). He uses diet, acupuncture, herbs and supplements to treat a wide range of health complaints. Acupuncture is partly reimbursed by VHI, Quinn Healthcare and VIVAS.
than the other herbs mentioned but is not really suitable for children. Siberian Ginseng and Rhodiola are two root herbs that grow in very hostile conditions within the Artic Circle. They survive because they have been able to adapt – and that’s what they help you to do. As adaptogenic herbs they support the adrenal glands during times of stress so that you can cope better. Because of this support you waste less energy dealing with stress and consequently feel less lethargic and tired. Ginseng can also help lift mood and make you feel better and brighter. It is only suitable for adults but should not be taken if there is a heart condition. Ginsavena is a herbal complex which combines Ginseng and Avena Sativa, so it both calming and soothing while lifting energy levels and mood. Stress within the body is caused by the release of stress hormones that in times gone by gave us the option of fight or flight. As so much of the stress that we experience today is mental or emotional, worrying about things (not fending off sabre toothed tigers as our distant ancestors may have had to do) we do not actually get rid of the stress hormones and they build up. It is therefore important to address this by acknowledging our concerns and feelings. There are many ways of doing this and yoga, exercise and meditation would all be examples of how we can take steps to help ourselves. A good diet, cutting out sugars and fats and eating more complex carbohydrates and fresh non-processed foods will give your body the nutrition it needs to deal with the stressful situation. Bach Flower Remedies and Jan de Vries Flower Essences are excellent at clearing negative and destructive emotions and work very gently and deeply on the psyche. Terri Conroy is the proprietor of An Bhean Feasa health Store and Clifden Holistic Centre on Market Street in Clifden. Information in this article is for advice only and does not replace advice from your medical practitioner or GP.
May 2009
Connemara View Newspaper
Eyecare: Your Prescription Explained You may have heard your Optometrist use the terminology of ‘Astigmatism’, ‘Myopia’, ‘Hypermytropia’ and ‘Presbyopia’ . Never be afraid to ask your Optometrist if you don’t understand the terminology. Below are some quick explanations of these common conditions. Astigmatism Astigmatism is the optical term for more than one point of focus. It occurs when the surface of the cornea or crystalline lens is not spherical. Light from an object may focus on the retina in one direction but not the other. An astigmatic eye has curves that are steeper in one direction than the other, like a rugby ball. A normal, spherical eye has curves that are the same in all directions, like a football. An astigmatic person will have distorted vision. Positioning a cylindrical lens in front of an astigmatic eye will refract the light in one direction more than in the other. The power of the lens is not the same all over. It is stronger in certain areas to compensate for the irregular curves on the astigmatic eye. When corrected, an astigmatic person will then see distance and close objects clearly. Myopia A person with myopia might find it is more commonly referred to as “short sightedness”. What is it? It is where the image is formed in front of the retina. This could be because the eye is too long, or the cornea or crystalline lens bends the light too steeply. How does it affect the person? A myopic person has blurred vision when looking at objects in the distance, and clearer vision when looking at objects close to them. How can we rectify it? By placing a concave lens in front of a myopic eye, the image is moved backwards and focuses correctly on the retina. A myopic
Eating for Health Vitamin B3
person will then see distance and close objects clearly. Hypermytropia A person with hypermytropia might find it is more commonly referred to as “long sightedness”. What is it? It is where the image is formed behind the retina. This could be because the eye is too short, or the cornea or crystalline lens does not refract the light enough. How does it affect the person? A hypermetropic person has blurred vision when looking at objects close to them and clearer vision when looking at objects in the distance. How can we rectify it? By placing a convex lens in front of a hypermetropic eye, the image is moved forward and focuses correctly on the retina. A hypermetropic person will then see distance and close objects clearly. Presbyopia Vision with Presbyopia - with Presbyopia the elasticity of the lens is gone, causing light to be focused behind the retina. This can lead to blurring and an inability to focus on objects close to the eye. Presbyopia classic symptoms: • A need to hold books at arm’s length. • Difficulty focusing on small close objects. • The need for brighter, direct light when reading. • If you are short-sighted, having to take off your glasses to see close objects. • Fatigue, headaches or eye strain when reading. The good news is that glasses or contact lenses with varifocal lenses can easily rectify Presbyopia. Your optician will recommend the best choice for you. For any further information contact Ailbhe Patten at Ní Ráighne Opticans, Bridge St, Clifden, (095) 30995.
Vitamin B3 has a vast array of functions and if your skin and/or your digestive system are giving you problems then B3 can help. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is known as ‘Niacin’ in the scientific world. It was discovered in 1867 and was deemed to be a vitamin in 1937. It is produced in the body from the amino acid tryptophane. What does this vitamin actually do? You may have seen a pattern emerging for Vitamin B through this series of articles, indicating that the vitamin plays a huge role in the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. B3 is important to this function as well. Protein synthesis is aided by B3. Protein synthesis is the production of chemical compounds by reaction from smaller materials in your body. Vitamin B3 promotes healthy skin and a healthy digestive system; it also promotes healthy hair and a healthy tongue. Which leaves the last of the minor functions, B3 synthesizes sex hormones. Cholesterol is another biggie when on the topic of B3. It helps with good and bad cholesterol. B3 lowers LDL (low density lipids) cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and is often a substitute if over the counter cholesterol treatments are ineffective. Coincidentally B3 also raises HDL (high density lipids) cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the body. B3 is also a good way for diabet-
Anti Bullying Competition
“Pawn” by Florence Pryce-Williams I am a lonely chess piece Moved by others’ hands A solitary pawn influence and controlled by ‘them’ The ‘Lords’ and ‘Ladies’ ‘Kings’ and ‘Queens’ ‘Popular’ and ‘Cool’ of this world Mock me, Manipulate me, Manhandle me, Mistreat me, I wish these games would all just end.
The recent Anti Bullying Week writing competition turned out to be a major success. The response was enormous and the standard of entry was extremely high. The judges, Maurice O’Scanaill and Penny Perrick, had the unenviable task of choosing the ultimate winners. After much deliberation the winners, pictured below, were announced at a prize giving ceremony held at the Clifden Community School recently. Congratulations are extended to Florence Pryce Williams, Leonie Lacey (Secondary Schools section) and John Burghoffer, Catherine Kelly, Mellisa Heanue and Taragh Kane (Primary Schools section). The Connemara View is delighted to print the winning entry of the Secondary School section, titled “Pawn” by Florence Pryce Williams. The other winning entries can be viewed on www.connemaraview.com. Photo (L-r): Taragh Kane, Leonie Lacey, Competition Judge Maurice O Scanaill, John Burghoffer, Florence Pryce-Williams, Catherine Kelly. Absent from photo: Melissa Heanue and Competition Judge Penny Perrick.
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
Mini Marathon for Cancer Care West SuperValu Clifden employees Maria Cribbins and Margaret O’Malley (photo above) are running the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon in aid of Cancer Care West on the 1st June 2009. They raised an impressive €1500 last year and are hoping to double that this year. They will be holding a fundraising bag packing day on the 22nd May in SuperValu. If anyone would like to show their support on the day, please contact Joe Lynch at SuperValu Clifden.
ics to lower blood sugar. It is necessary for maintaining a healthy nervous system and is essential for proper utilisation of the brain and nerves. To continue with B3’s ability to keep the body running smoothly, B3 is involved in the oxidative release of energy from food, so when you eat that steak, you get all the benefits, besides the taste of course. Serotonin can help those with arthritis, and niacin amide (a form of B3) aids rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. B3 is best known for its ability to prevent the “4D’s”, dermatitis, diarrhea, dementia, and death. The disease that causes these horrible symptoms is known as Pellagra, which is linked to an overdependence on corn as a staple food.
Where can one consume B3? Like B1 and B2, B3 has many forms in which one can ingest the vitamin: • Spaghetti (2oz= 4.1mg, 20% DV) • White Rice (1cup = 6.7mg, 33% DV) • Spelt (1cup = 11.9, 60% DV) • Wild Rice (1cup = 10.8mg, 54% DV) • Kellogg’s Complete Oat Bran Flakes (3/4cup = 21.0mg, 105% DV) • Seaweed, Spirulina (1cup = 14.4mg, 72% DV) • Sunflower Seeds (1cup = 3.8mg, 18% DV) • Chunky Peanut Butter (1cup = 35.3mg, 177% DV) • Anchovy (1oz = 5.6mg, 28% DV) • Tuna (1/2 fillet = 28.9mg, 144% DV) • Canned Tuna in Oil (1cup = 18.1mg, 91% DV) • Salmon (1/2 fillet = 10.6mg, 53% DV) • Trout (1 fillet = 6.2mg, 31% DV) • Beef Liver (1 slice = 14.2mg, 71% DV) • Sirloin/Strip Steak (1 steak = 33.7mg, 169% DV) • Pork Liver (4oz = 17.3mg, 86% DV) • Pork Shoulder (1 piece (373g) = 38.8mg, 194% DV) • Cured Ham (I slice (445g) = 40.1mg, 200% DV) • Pork Kidney (I kidney = 19.1mg, 96% DV) • Lamb Liver (I unit (323g) = 53.7mg, 269% DV) • Paprika (1tbsp = 1.0mg, 5% DV) When are you not getting enough B3? Much like B3’s functions, there are major and minor ways in which you can tell if you’re getting enough B3. Heading the major deficiency list is Frank’s Disease, which leads to Pellagra, the paralytic disease mentioned before. Less intense signs are weakness, loss of appetite, dry scaly skin, and fatigue, to name a few. Gastrointestinal disturbance and indigestion are stomach signs. Others signs include skin lesions, inflamed mouth, insomnia, nausea, rashes, and stress/depression associated with the nervous system. Wrinkles and coarse texture of skin are more minor signs, so help maintain your general appearance and overall good health by making sure you get enough Vitamin B3. Connor McDonough-Flynn
Page 25
New Businesses
The Bens Music Shop & Framing Studio The sound of music can now be heard coming from a new venue on Bridge Street in Clifden with the opening of “The Bens” in the premises that was formerly O’Toole’s Grocery shop and Bar. Proprietor John O’Reilly of Ballyconneely says the response to the shop has already been very positive. Traditional Irish CDs and DVDs are the main musical focus and local Connemara singers and musicians are also welcome to sell their recordings there, which many are already doing. Requests for musical products not in stock can also be ordered and obtained when possible. A wide range of gift items are also available, from personalised musical instruments to personalised slates, and novelty frames, a selection of which are currently on display in store. Art prints and images are also on sale, including John’s own series of art
prints of Connemara scenes. John will also provide a specialised framing service from mid May onwards. In the near future, a t-shirt imprinting and personalising service will also be available at The Bens.
voiced their support. The original Burger Van will still be in action for outdoor events and occasions as before and Jon and Mark look forward to welcoming both old and new customers to The Chipper Restaurant.
Whitethorn Gallery
Saz’s Barbers & Grooming for Men
A light and airy space, filled with the fruits of labour of many local artists and some from further afield has transformed Unit 2 of the Station House into The Whitethorn Gallery. Run by Anne Merrins, the gallery is the culmination of a dream that has taken over 20 years to come to fruition. As Anne expresses in the Whitethorn brochure, available at the Gallery, “You can’t throw a stone in Connemara without hitting somebody creative” and this is emphatically and stun-
A new grooming centre for men has opened in Clifden on Bridge St, Saz’s Barbers on Bridge St, Clifden. Sarah Coyne (see photo) has recently returned to Clifden from Dublin, where she was living and working for some years. Sarah has over 15 years experience in both gents and ladies hairdressing, and in recent years has worked at Knights on the Green Barber’s in St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre and Mecca Barber’s in Leopardstown and Rathmines. A full range of men’s haircuts and grooming options are now offered at Saz’s, from regular cuts to highlights, hot towel shaves and Indian head massage. Discount prices apply for children, students and OAPs. The opening hours for Saz’s Barbers are as follows Mon 10-5, Tue-Thurs 10-6, Fri, 10-7, Sat 9:30-5.
ningly evident in the current collection of works on display. As with most galleries, it would be impossible to single out individual works or artists for particular praise; suffice to say there is something in the Whitethorn Gallery that will catch every eye. Current exhibitors include Laura Cull, Reingard Gahan, Joe Boske, Glenn Gibson, Lol Hardiman, Kate Noonan, Glenn Gibson, Robert Jayet, Anna St. George, Alexandra van Tuyll, Kim O’Donoghue, Herman Buytenhuys, Linda Kennedy and Anne Merrins herself. The Whitethorn Gallery was officially opened on Wednesday April 8th by Brendan Flynn with his customary aplomb and is now open from 10am to 6pm Monday to Saturday and Sunday from 11:30 to 4:30. Photo: Brendan Flynn (far right) officially opening the Whitethorn Gallery to a large gathering.
Burger Van finds a home! Jon Brennan and Mark Furniss, the proprietors of Clifden Square’s Burger Van for some years now have now moved their business to a permanent home at the premises formerly known as JC’s Restaurant on Market Street in Clifden. The Chipper Restaurant is now open for business from 3pm to
11:30pm, 7 days a week, complete with a new larger menu and seating space. New additions to the menu include chicken kebabs, onion rings, chicken nuggets, bbq rib burger, and, due to repeated requests from customers, coleslaw! As previously, orders for burgers of any size will also be accommodated and created! Jon and Mark wish to acknowledge the overwhelming support they have received in recent weeks as a result of needing to relocate their business, particularly; Martin O’Connor for making the new premises available for lease, Emer Joyce for temporarily accommodating the Burger Van and all those who undertook collecting petition signatures, both in person (Fionn Conneely and Connor McDonough-Flynn) and online (Alan Pryce) and all those who signed and
Page 26
May 2009
White Dragon Café White Dragon is a newly opened café on Church Hill, Clifden, at the premises previously known as the Two Dog Café. Proprietor Lukasz Langowski offers a new style of dining to customers in Clifden with the menu primarily based around a wide selection of savoury and sweet pancakes. The menu offers homemade soups (chunky, not blended), a Greek salad plate and made to order savoury pancakes with fillings like mushrooms, spinach, beef, salmon, ham, cheese and more, all at very reasonable prices. Those with a sweet tooth can try freshly baked homemade cakes and sweet pancakes in addition to a full range of Illy coffees and a selection of herbal teas. The upstairs of the café is now another seating area. A house special is the “Zoffee Coffee”, a special coffee with secret flavourings, which according to Lukasz is already very popular! White Dragon is currently open from 11am to 8pm, with extended opening hours during the summer months.
New Easter Donkey Hopping Along Pat O’Donoghue of Clifden welcomed a very special Easter arrival - the first filly foal on the Sky Road for two years who has been stopping traffic as motorists and walkers regularly stop to admire her!
Connemara View Newspaper
Financial Budget Blues - Take 3 As they say in the movie business, take 3! Brian Lenihan has taken the third attempt at introducing an austerity budget, following on from his first attempt last October which was extensively re-modelled (take 2!) by the time it was enacted in December 2008. By any standards the latest edition is one of the most severe in recent memory, seeing massive tax increases and spending cuts across all areas of government. Not only was the budget targeting this year’s finances but there were indications of the levels and kinds of tax and spending changes which we can expect in the coming years also. And if current indications are to be believed there will be significant further tax increases to be endured in the coming years and social welfare and other state benefits heretofore regarded as “sacred cows”, will increasingly come under review. The main income tax changes announced last month were as follows: • The income levy, introduced last year has been doubled and the income threshold has been reduced. The levy will apply to all earnings/wages over €289 per week; weekly income below this amount will continue to be exempt from the levy. • The Health Levies have been doubled from 2% to 4% for most taxpayers. With all the talk of doubling tax rates one would think that there was going to be a significant change in take home pay but for a lot of people on ordinary incomes this will not be the case. For example, if someone was earning €500 per week, their change in take home pay as a result of last month’s budget would be reduced by around €5 per week. Granted, the effects are greater for those earning higher incomes but if you were earning say €275 per week, this budget didn’t affect your weekly income at all. There were other changes to non-income tax rates announced last month, particularly with reference to capital taxes. Capital gains tax (tax on profits on the disposal of assets) went up by 3% to 25%. The same rate change was made to capital acquisitions tax (tax on gifts and inheritances). Another change which will affect the inheritance entitlements of families is the reduction in the value of assets which a person can receive under an inheritance tax free. This tax free allowance was reduced across the board by 20% and it will mean that with rates going up and allowances coming down, anyone getting an inheritance in the future could be facing a tax bill they hadn’t anticipated. One change which will affect anyone with a mortgage was the curtailing of mortgage interest relief from 1st
May. What currently happens is that the government pay a portion of a mortgage on a domestic dwelling house every month. For those with large mortgages this was worth a €100 a month for non first time buyers and over €300 a month for first time buyers (albeit with a large mortgage in excess of €400k). The new regime means that this subsidy can only be claimed on the first seven years of a mortgage, so loans taken out before 2002 will no longer be eligible for this payment and affected homeowners will likely see their mortgage repayments increase because of this change. However, one potentially significant development in the budget, which is a departure from previous tax practice and norms worldwide, is the element of retrospective tax changes possibly being introduced. In essence because this budget seeks to change tax rates midway through the tax year and to smooth out the effects of changing rates mid year it is suggested that an average rate will be used to calculate a taxpayer’s income tax levy liability. Whilst this may seem very sensible and practical on one level it is a significant tax taboo to make tax changes apply to income before the changes were announced. If you were to take an extreme example of this idea the government could increase that tax rate by 2% on last year’s income and issue a tax demand for the amount underpaid! It is well understood that it is not feasible nor prudent to change historic tax rates and apply them to income earned before the tax change announcement. People make informed decisions based on the current tax regime; they need to be assured this cannot be retrospectively changed. This will be a tricky one for the government to fix and their approach will be viewed with interest by tax professionals and the opposition in the Dail. This budget introduced a few straws in the wind which could give an indication of where the money will be found in future to plug our widening deficits. Social welfare spending accounts for almost half of our national tax take and it appears the constant upward trend in benefits and entitlements is coming to an end. A freezing of all social welfare benefits for a few years looks likely to be announced in the next budget (December 2009). Also the universal entitlement to child benefit tax free is coming to an end. The government have yet to decide if it is to be taxed or means tested. If it’s the latter, then depending on the entitlement threshold, many families could face losing this payment altogether. A further likely tax change is the introduction of some form of property tax. Lenihan’s budget (Take 1) last October introduced a flat €200 tax on second properties; watch for this tax to significantly increase in the coming years and also for a form of domestic rates being introduced over 30 years after Jack Lynch controversially abolished them (along with car tax; those were the days...! )
Q: My 75-year-
Planning Applications Source: www.galway.ie
old mother got a letter from the HSE about her medical card, asking for details of her income. She gets a Widow’s Pension of €230.30 a week, plus €200 a month from a private pension. She also has some savings, on which she earns interest. Will she lose the medical card? What should she do?
A:All existing medical cards for people over 70 were valid
09647 Joyce, Eddie & Kathy, Lissoughter, 03/04/09. For alterations and extension to existing dwelling house and for a garage/shed. 09618 Fogerty, Des, 01/04/09. To retain slate roof to Fogertys restaurant. 09650 Connemara West plc, Letterfrack, 03/04/09. For the erection of 2 no. external directory signs with associated works. 09651 Conneely, Eileen, Derrigimlagh, 06/04/09. To retain upgraded wastewater treatment system and percolation area. 09675 Boote, Simon and Gina, Munga, 08/04/09. To construct a new extension domestic garage, BAF waste water treatment system, sand polishing filter percolation area and refurbish existing dwelling. 09693 Conroy, Peter, Kylemore, 09/04/09. To construct a dwelling house, garage, proprietary effluent treatment system and all associated site works. 09697 McLaughlin, Tom, Derrigimlagh, 09/04/09. For construction of a single storey rear extension. 09704 Mari Saville, Gerard Mannix Flynn &, Letterfrack. 09/04/09. For permanent retention and completion of three new two-storey studios (157sqm approx. total area) at rear of Ellis Studios at the former Letterfrack Industrial School Buildings and close to Let-
until 2 March 2009. Since then, they continue to be valid if the holder’s income is below the relevant limit. Your mother will only have to reply to the HSE’s letter if her gross income is more than €700 a week or €36,500 a year. If it is not, she can simply keep her card, and does not have to contact the HSE. Gross income means pensions, earnings, interest from capital and all other sources of income. We can calculate your mother’s total pension income as follows: Widow’s Pension €230.30; Private Pension (weekly equivalent) €46.15; Total weekly €276.45. Total Yearly €14,375.40. This is well below the limits of €700 a week or €36,500 a year. Whatever savings she has would have to be quite large to bring her up to these limits. For example, if she had €50,000 in savings, the first €36,000 would be ignored, so only €14,000 would be taken into account. An interest rate of 4% would yield €560 per year or €10.77 per week to add to her pension of €276.45. She would still be well below the income limits and could continue to use her medical card. If her income did go above the limits, she would have the following options: • Apply for a Drugs Payment Scheme (DPS) card, which would cover all but the first €100 per month of prescribed
drugs, medicines or appliances: and • Record all her medical expenses on a Form Med 1 (available from www.revenue.ie or Lo-call 1890 306 706) and claim tax relief on them at the end of the year: or • Apply for a discretionary medical card on the basis of her personal circumstances N.B. People over 70 who exceed the medical card income limits will also exceed the GP Visit Card limits. As a result, people over 70 cannot get a GP Visit Card. If they qualified on the GP Visit Card means test, they would have kept their medical card. Declan Weir. Further information is available from Clifden Citizens Information Centre. 095 22000 & 087 1301100. www.citizensinformation.ie.
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
The bigger effect of the budget is likely to be felt in the reduction of certain services which we have grown accustomed to. Class sizes are going up, waiting lists for hospital procedures will inevitably lengthen, and road and infrastructural projects will be shelved to take stock of the deteriorating public finances. The reality of the Irish public finances is we were living the champagne lifestyle on lemonade money! For some reason we felt as a nation that we could exempt over 30% of the working population from paying any income tax at all and we could still demand first world health and public services. The widening of the tax base is the starting point for the new tax regime in Ireland with more and more people being asked to contribute. Ireland had become a low tax, high spend country made possible by the over reliance on property related transaction taxes like capital gains, stamp duty and VAT. This economic model is unsustainable if you want and demand a level of social and health spending from your elected representatives. We are all somewhat to blame for this situation; we stopped saving, kept borrowing, kept spending, kept demanding services and kept electing the same politicians that many people are now turning on. Now the binge is over let the hangover truly begin. Declan Mannion is a Chartered Accountant with Mannion Lochrin & Co., Market Street, Clifden. Telephone 095-30030 Fax 095-30031 e-mail declan@mannion-lochrin.com. See our website www.mannion-lochrin.com. terfrack Roman Catholic Church; also provision of ancillary space to the existing theatre building including foyer, toilets and cafe in a two-storey building at the road corner end of the existing theatre comprising a total area of approx. 100sqm; and a new rear extension to the theatre consisting of a two-and-a-half-storey building containing backstage storage and green room, comprising a total area of approx. 77sqm and site development works including connection to the new public sewer. 09714 Sullivan Roche, John, Ardbear, 14/04/09. To construct a dwellinghouse, access road, wastewater treatment system and percolation area. 09765 Redmond, Colm J., Cashel, 17/04/09. For 1) new sewage treatment and polishing filter, 2) construct 8 no. self contained holiday units, 3) construct a new facade including signage to the existing bar of the hotel and extend same at the Zetland Hotel. 09792 Sweeney, John, Claddaghduff, 23/04/09. For the demolition of an existing habitable house and adjacent out-buildings and for construction of a new two-storey house adjoining the existing public bar and shop along with the construction of four detached two-storey cottages all of which shall be connected into a new waste water treatment plant and percolation area. 09798 Sheehy, Anne & Ambrose, Roundstone. 23/04/09. For alterations and extensions to the existing house by increasing room heights; raising level of roof, revising internal layout, first floor kitchen extension, ground level garage and utility room and alterations to elevations. 09816 Churchill, John, Aughrusmore, 24/04/09. For retention of recently installed windows and doors to a ruinous house, and permission for a new roof, bathroom, conservatory and a septic system. 09824 Varley, Cora, Lettergesh, 27/04/09. To (a) demolish existing dwelling house and shed, (b) construct new house and shed, (c) upgrade existing septic tank and provide puriflo sewage treatment system, (d) all ancillary site works and site services (gross floor space 195.58sqm) 09825 O’Rourke, Michael, Claddaghduff, 27/04/09. To demolish existing shed and construct a new shed in a revised loaction with all ancillary site works and site services.
Page 27
MAY Horoscopes Aries (Mar 21 Apr 20) With the warm weather comes your ideal time of year. This month will be full of new and exciting things for you, enjoy. Taurus (Apr 21 – May 20) Happy Birthday! It is time to put your plans and goals into action. The things that you have been waiting to do are now ready, so get out there and get going. Gemini (May 21 – Jun 21) Love could be on the cards for you this month. You could get carried away with a new relationship, or strengthen the one that already exists. Cancer ( Jun 22 – Jul 22) There is something in your life that you are clinging to. Be careful not to hold on too tight or you may lose whatever it is. Leo ( Jul 23 – Aug 23) It is a month of celebrations for you Leo. You are the special guest of honour this month wherever you go, enjoy the party. Virgo (Aug 24 – Sep 22) The moon and its influences will play a strong role in your life this month. Be careful around the full moon it could make you a little wild. Libra (Sep 23 – Oct 23) This is a month of learning for you. If there is a course, class or study that you want to do, now is the time. Scorpio (Oct 24 – Nov 22) You need to let go of the harder side of yourself this month, the stern side. Focus on the good and positive things this month. Sagittarius (Nov 23 – Dec 21) It is now time to let down some of the safety measures that you have put in place to stay protected. To let someone in, you need to let go. Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 20) Hmm, that idea that has been kicking around your head for a while needs to be doing something. Make plans to get it on the move. Aquarius ( Jan 21 – Feb 19) A bit of blind faith is not what is called for this month. Do not just trust in things. Make sure you have the facts and have your eyes open to them. Pisces (Feb 20 – Mar 20) The past will be important to you this month. A message from your past will give you good advice for your future.
MAY Tarot The Magician in the past lets you know that you can do anything you set your mind to. You have the capability to achieve all of your objectives. The King of Wands in the present lets you know that you are grounded and will be able to do the things that you wish. The 2 of Wands in the future tells you to do some things now before you must settle into the role that you will take in the future.
MAY runes With Journey as the Action you are being told to communicate and put all the pieces together in order to proceed. The Challenge with Fehu is the little things that get in the way of your intentions. Cut through the red tape and shortfalls. The Overview as Ehwaz tells you that although movement appears to be blocked for now, you are making progress in other ways.
“What is yours will come to you”
PC Tips & Tricks
Tough Questions Answered Remember the computer in The Hitchhiker’s Guide, “Deep Thought”? It was so vastly, omnisciently intelligent that you could ask it anything, including the Ultimate Question of Life, the Universe and Everything? Well, currently the technical world is abuzz with talk of a major breakthrough in computing: “Wolfram Alpha”. In a nutshell, Wolfram Alpha is a “computational knowledge engine” for the Web. OK, so whassat? Basically, it means that you can ask it factual questions, and it will “compute” the answer for you. It doesn’t simply return documents that (might) contain the answers, like Google does and it isn’t just a giant database of knowledge like the Wikipedia. Instead, it computes the answers to questions like “What is the average rainfall for Clifden in August?”, “What country is Timbuktu in?” or “Where is the ISS right now?” Whew – just think about it. It computes the answers. Wolfram Alpha doesn’t simply
Page 28
By the end of the month, sunrise is at around 4:30 am and sunset is at 9:45 pm; and the Sun never gets far enough below the horizon for the sky to get properly dark all night. Full Moon occurs on Saturday May 9th. At this phase, the Moon is on the opposite side of the sky to the Sun; so it rises at sunset, shines all through the night, and sets at sunrise the following morning. Then, as it wanes to gibbous again, it goes on rising later and further south every evening and setting later and further south every morning. New Moon is on Sunday May 24th. The new crescent could be visible in the north-western sky at sunset any evening from Monday 25th onwards. It stays up later each evening. Mercury is at inferior conjunction (almost directly in front of the Sun) on May 18th. We may just be able to glimpse it after sunset, at the very start of May, but it will soon disappear, and we won’t see it again this month. Venus is rising an hour or so before the Sun, and we may be able to see the brilliant “Morning Star” very low in the east at dawn. Don’t confuse it with Jupiter, which is about 45 degrees further right and somewhat higher up; Venus is really much brighter than Jupiter, but it will be more dimmed by the atmosphere, so the two planets may appear quite similar. In a telescope, Venus generally shows a featureless white disc; but it goes through phases, like the Moon. This month the size of the disc shrinks from 40 to 25 arc-seconds across and the Night Sky as on May 15, 2230. phase increases from 25% to 45%. On the morning of Thursday May 21st, the real waning Moon will appear five degrees above Venus; the two objects should fit together into the view of a pair of binoculars. Mars is also in the morning sky, coming up in the east a few minutes after Venus. But the Red Planet is very much fainter than Venus, and will be virtually impossible to observe this month. Jupiter is rising in the south-east in the early hours of the morning and it is well up in the south-eastern sky at dawn. Relative to the stars, Jupiter is moving slowly north-eastwards in Capricornus. If you’re familiar with the three bright stars of the “Summer Triangle”, you will find Jupiter far below them. Although it’s so low down, Jupiter should still outshine any of the real stars. Early on the morning of Sunday May 17th, our own Last-Quarter Moon will be just above Jupiter, only two degrees away. Saturn is well up in the south-western sky at dusk, and doesn’t set until dawn. Relative to the stars it is virtually stationary this month, at the eastern end of the constellation of Leo, well to the left of the bright star Regulus. Saturn appears brighter than Regulus, and it shines with a steady, untwinkling light, slightly creamier in colour than the blue-white star. On the evening of Sunday May 3rd, our own gibbous Moon appeared to the lower right of Saturn, eight degrees away. Meteors: On any clear night, we may see the occasional random meteor or “shooting-star”, as tiny specks of interplanetary debris burn up in the Earth’s atmosphere. At certain times of the year, the Earth travels through a cloud of this dust, and we get a meteor-shower. However, there are no significant meteor-showers for northern-hemisphere observers in May. Noctilucent Clouds: Late May is the time to start looking out for Noctilucent (“NightShining”) Clouds. These are beautiful, high-altitude clouds that form only occasionally, and only for a few weeks around midsummer. Being so high up (over 80 km above the ground), NLCs are still in sunlight, even in the middle of the night. When ordinary clouds appear dark, or at best have a pink sunset glow, NLCs shine with a clear, bluewhite light. They are formed of tiny ice-crystals, and they have a sharply-defined structure, quite unlike the fluffy texture of most low-altitude clouds which are made of water droplets. NLCs often exhibit a rippled pattern, like the marks left by waves on Omey Strand. John Claro contain huge amounts of manually-entered pairs of questions and answers, nor does it search for answers in a database of facts. Instead, it understands and then computes answers to certain kinds of questions. Its inventor, Stephen Wolfram is a scientist who has recorded a few breakthroughs and a little controversy. He received his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from Caltech in 1979 at the tender age of 20, and has focused most of his career on probing complex systems. In May, Wolfram will launch Wolfram Alpha, which is dubbed a computational knowledge engine. It is pretty clear, what Web giant Wolfram Alpha is targeting – rhymes with Moogle. Scary? Wolfram Alpha isn’t designed to be HAL 9000. Wolfram Alpha sounds impressive, but it would be premature to call it a Google killer. In fact, if Wolfram Alpha lives up to its billing it will more than likely be acquired at some ridiculous price either by Google or some company—Microsoft?—looking to kill Google. John Claro. Two Dog Computer & Business Solutions offers professional web development, hosting and maintenance services in Clifden. 095 22194/086 404 3125, kennel@twodogcomputers.com.
May 2009
Connemara View Newspaper
C o n s u m er Watch dog : La n d l i n es & Pet r ol Telephone Hang-ups The proliferation of phone companies, either terrestrial, mobile or satellite, is reaching epidemic proportions. Like clothes hangers in a wardrobe, they just seem to keep multiplying every time you go to answer the phone. It’s not that I have a hang-up about them, but I recently had the experience of receiving calls from four different companies each offering the “very best deal out there”! One of the first things I noticed about these calls was that their respective phone numbers show up as “withheld”. Secondly, their friendly patter is interspersed with quick speak and bundle upon bundle of offers. So many alternatives that it can become confusing while at the same time you are not offered the opportunity or are unable to peruse the details at your leisure. I declined their offers. In circumstances where you feel rushed or under pressure to make a decision, just say ‘No!’ If you are interested in getting more details about the service provider just ask for their website details and, in your own time, check out what is on offer and how it compares with your present provider and other competitors. So, with the last conversation still ringing in my ears, we are going to take a look at a selection of landline based companies and their basic price structures. First things first, if you do decide to change your phone provider there are certain rights of which you should be aware. Many consumers are not aware, for example, that there are regulations governing distance and doorstop selling including a time frame in which they may cancel a contract. They may not also be aware of the fact that a contract made over the phone can be binding.
Guidelines for Switching Phone Service Providers Before Making a Contract: • Check out service providers and the various packages. • Check terms and conditions carefully, duration of contract, penalties for cancellation and when service will commence. • All information and prices should be accurate and truthful. All charges for services either displayed or quoted, which are directed at consumers, must be tax inclusive (e.g. VAT). • Choose the package that suits you. Making the Contract It should be noted that you do not have to sign a piece of paper to make a contract. A recorded conversation on the phone (called a Third Party Verification or TPV) or completing electronic forms are considered as binding as a signed paper contract. If you change service provider by phone, via the internet or by other distance selling means i.e. where you are not in the physical presence of the trader, you are entitled to the protection of the Distance Selling Regulations. Distance Selling Regulations Before you have made the contract you must be told the identity of the company you are dealing with, be given a description of the service and the minimum duration of the
contract. The contract is not binding unless you receive written confirmation or confirmation in another durable form. If you order a service by distance, it must be delivered within 30 days, unless you are informed that there would be a delay. You have 7 (seven) working days, in which to cancel a distance contract without penalty. Remember that if you agree to start the service within the cancellation period you no longer have the right to cancel without paying a penalty. After the Contract Read any information that may be enclosed with the first bill and check to make sure that you have been billed for the package for which you signed. Remember that in the case of a telephone bill the VAT may be shown separately. If you have any billing or service problems you should contact your service provider immediately. Remember to keep a record of all contacts made with the provider and any undertakings given. Source: Comreg
bank in writing also, to let them know that you want to cancel your direct debit. Most banks charge a penalty if there is not enough money in your account to meet the direct debit. At present, the cheapest basic rate is supplied by Eircom but as you can see from the accompanying chart there is very little difference between the main selected players. For a more in-depth analysis of services and costs associated, I would strongly advise that you visit the website or study the brochure of your prospective provider. John Durning
Bundles and Bundles There is a myriad of packages available to customers and depending on your specific needs and preferred method of payment, there is often little difference between the cheapest and the most expensive basic package. However, it is when you start to examine which bundle suits your needs that you begin to see the difference in price emerging. Probably the best option open to you as the consumer is to go online and view the sites www.askcomreg.ie and www. callcosts.ie, where up to date comparisons of various options have already been drawn up. A more accurate assessment of the costs associated with your specific usage can be more precisely calculated. The chart above will give you a rough idea of the basic charges. Payment methods are very often limited by some but not all of the providers. Note should be taken that if the payment is made by direct debit, it is up to you to contact the third party, in this case the phone provider, to cancel the permission you already signed. It is advisable to inform your
Have a Consumer Complaint? Let us know! Phone us at 095-22888 or email us at news@connemaraview.com
Death Notices Anthony (Tony) Coohill, Claddaghduff Brendan Egan, Boston (son of Rita McDonagh Egan and the late Francie Egan both of Clifden) Declan Faherty, Renvyle and Michigan Feichin Mulkerrin, Claddaghduff Breda Murphy, Aughrismore, Cleggan John Nee, New York & Derryinver Philomena O’Donnell (nee Fitzpatrick), Moyrus, Carna, & Renvyle Mary Shiels, Dawros & Blessington, Wicklow The Connemara View would like to extend sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. This list is compiled from various sources and we apologise for any errors or omissions.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara View Newspaper 7,000 copies distributed monthly throughout Connemara 095-22888/087-290-9351/086-400-6666 news@connemaraview.com www.connemaraview.com Editor-in-Chief/Publisher: Ellen McDonough News Editor: Catherine Pryce Distribution Mgr: John Dunne Graphic Design/Layout/Features: Marie-Noelle Biddulph Consumer Watchdog: John Durning Feature Writer: Connor McDonough-Flynn KidsView Junior Editor: Steven Coohill Contributors: John Amenhauser, Petrina Aspell, Tom Broderick, John Claró, Dorothy Conneely, Rhea Conneely,Terri Conroy, Richard de Stacpoole, Michael Dolan, Vincent Fahy, Paul Gannon, Kevin Gavin, Heather Greer, Eithne Hannigan, Aoife Herriot, Bernie Jeff ries, PK Joyce, Ita Kane, Nick Kats, Peter Keane, Bernard Lee, Helena Lydon, Maureen Maloney, Declan Mannion, Paul Mannion, Kevin O’Connor, Aidan O’Halloran, John O’Neill, Breandan O’Scanaill, Donal O’Scanaill, Maurice O’Scanaill, Fionnuala O’Shaughnessy, Cathriona O’Toole, Ailbhe Patten, Kevin Prunty, Oilbhe Scannell, Olivia Staunton, Anne Steyaert, Mairead Tucker, Declan Weir, Mary Whelan,Tricia Wilder.
Plus many local schools, groups & organisations.
NEXT ISSUE: Thursday, June 4th Display Ad Reservation Deadline: Friday, May 16th News Deadline Wednesday, May 27th Classified Ad Deadline: Friday, May 29th May 2009
Page 29
Fantastic Progress for Clifden Tidy Towns The Clifden Tidy Towns campaign for 2009 is nearing completion and our final project before the adjudication for June 2009 will take place in the 1st week in June with a final Tidy Town informal clean up. Before that, the Clifden Tidy Towns group will finish off a few projects that are taking place at the moment. As we speak, the finalising of the replanting of the large planters around the town is nearly complete with new shrubs, roses and other new plants. A number of the gardens completed last year will also be given new plants and shrubs and we expect to have another small garden at the rear of the Tourist Office car park finished before the end of May. The Super Sunday clean up on Sunday April 5th (see photo above) was a huge success as everybody could see from the amount of rubbish collected. Many from the community helped out on the day and were rewarded with wonderful refreshments afterwards courtesy of SuperValu Clifden. The Old Jail walkway is nearly complete after a hard day’s work which has seen the right of way re-opened once more after falling into neglect over the last few years. Members of the Clifden Tidy Towns group also lent a hand to the Aillebrack Beaches Clean up on Sunday 19th April; a great day’s work was done with 2 tractor loads of rubbish removed! In April, a delegation from the Clifden Tidy Towns group, Mary O`Donnell, Monica Joyce, Joe Lynch and Alan Shattock journeyed to Westport to attend a seminar that offered help and advice from Westport Tidy Towns. The delegation were delighted to see that Clifden Tidy Towns were already doing a lot of the points as given at the seminar, but also came
away with some great ideas on how to move our own Tidy Towns Group forward. Our final meeting for the 2009 campaign will take place towards the end of May, so please keep an eye on the notice board in Supervalu for the exact date. We look forward to having a large increase in our points for the 2009 season, but remember keep up the good work by lifting any rubbish, giving your premises a lick of paint etc. As always if you would like to become a member of Clifden Tidy Towns Group, e.mail the secretary, Mary O’Donnell at cregghouse1@eircom.net. PK Joyce, Chairperson, Clifden Tidy Towns Group
Art Competition At the Clifden Tidy Towns Super Sunday Art Competition prizegiving on Tuesday 28th April 2009 at Clifden Library, were PK Joyce, Chairperson, Clifden Tidy Towns, Olive Carty, Kingstown NS, Caoimhe representing St. Teresa’s NS, Cashel, Mary O’Donnell, Secretary Clifden Tidy Towns, Marie Bourke, Cleggan NS, Joe Lynch, and some of the children who were winners.
Ballyconneely Beach Clean Up 2009 It was wonderful to see a great crowd participating in this year’s annual spring clean-up of the Keerhaunmore, Silver Hill and Aillebrack beaches. Martin O’Neill and John Edward Coneys supported us with their tractors, without which we wouldn’t have been able to shift the many rubbish bags to one collection point. Connemara Golf Club sponsored us with refuse bags, tea, coffee & sandwiches. Hope to see you all again next year! Anne & Sean,The Point Pony Trekking & Horse Riding. Photos courtesy of Anne Steyaert
Page 30
May 2009
Connemara View Newspaper
RNLI Dinner Dance
Easter Egg Hunt The annual Easter Egg Hunt organized by the Scoil Mhuire Parents Assoc. took place at the Connemara National Park on Easter Sunday. The day was a great success and great fun was had by all in the park’s excellent facilities. Over 170 children took part in the hunt and later enjoyed the treats sponsored by SuperValu Clifden.
RNLI Crew members both past and present and members of the local fundraising branch are pictured below at the RNLI Dinner Dance which took place at the Station House Hotel on Friday May 1st. Clifden RNLI Lifeboat Operations Manager Peter Bailey with Robert King (photo right) who was voted Crew Member of the Year by his fellow crew. The Clifden Bridge Club held a Fundraiser in aid of the RNLI at the Station House Hotel on Tuesday April 28th. Peter Bailey gratefully accepted the funds on behalf of the Clifden RNLI from Joe McGrath. (L-r): Carmel Murray, Bernie Ward, Ber Kirby, Peter Bailey, Joan Coyne, Nessa Joyce and Peter Smith.
Graduation Success Rebecca O’Halloran, grandaughter of Mary Whelan of the Sky Rd, graduated with a Masters Degree in International Relations from DCU recently. She is pictured here with her parents Ann and Paul.
Birthday Greetings Stephanie Conneely, right, will celebrate her third birthday on May 20th with her parents Pat and Rhea Conneely, Nanny Mary and all her family!
Easter Sunrise Mass Canon James Ronayne, Parish Priest of Clifden and the Reverend Denis Sandes conducted an interdenominational Easter Sunrise Mass at 6am on Easter Sunday April 12th at the Clifden Boat Club. Photo courtesy of Vincent Fahy.
Congratulations to Sharon Flaherty of Renvyle and Mark Kane of Blessington Co. Wicklow, who were married on April 3rd in Basilica Di San Silvestro, Rome. Photo right courtesy of Helena Lydon. Congratulations to Becky Lynch of Letterfrack and Ivan Reid whose wedding took place on April 17th with a reception at Renvyle House Hotel. Photo left courtesy of Aoife Herriot Photography
Connemara View Newspaper
May 2009
Page 31
Dear Voter, I am asking for your No. 1 Vote on the 5th June. I am a mother of two adult children, a Connemara native and I have lived and worked here all my life. I am a graduate of University College Galway in Arts and Law. I want to represent Ballyconneely, Ballinafad, Carna, Cashel, Claddaghduff, Cleggan, Clifden, Clonbur, Cornamona, Inishbofin, Letterfrack, Leenane,Moyard,Maam, Maam Cross, Recess,Tully, Renvyle, Roundstone and Rosmuc. I have the time, the energy and I believe the ability to be an effective public representative for Connemara but particularly West Connemara. If elected I will hold a regular clinic in your area and I will also be available to meet you at anytime by appointment. In the election of 2004, I missed out on a seat by 48 votes. The loss of a seat to our area was and is serious.
Farmers have suffered greatly over the last number of years. Suckler Cow Grants have been cut in half. This should not happen. Our farmers cannot afford such a cut. They will not be able to survive, to buy feed and nuts or pay their way. Full payment must be reinstated. These cuts should not apply to low income farmers with less than 20 cows. I will be a voice on this. It is unjust. Farm families here should not have to live with reductions of €800 to €2000 in their incomes. It is simply unfair.
PLANNING
EDUCATION
The right to live in our own community is a basic right. It is a right not fully accepted or implemented by Galway County Council. I will work to secure the basic rights of our local people to get planning. Our people are strangled by regulation.
ROADS, WATER, SEWAGE Our local roads are pot holed and in poor condition. The N59 has seen the boom come and go as if the boom never happened. It is untouched and a journey to Galway City is now thirty minutes longer that it was ten years ago. Our water and sewage plants in many areas are hopelessly inadequate. Clifden is Page 32
waiting years for improvements to the chronic sewage problems. Tourism is one of our biggest industries, the lack of infrastructure in water, sewage and roads is damaging this industry, stopping development and costing Connemara badly needed revenue and jobs. I will work tirelessly to ensure Connemara infrastructure projects are at the top of Galway County Council’s agenda so that we can maintain the tourism industry and jobs we so badly need.
FARMERS
Clifden Community School is now the sole provider of secondary school education for students from Clifden, Ballyconnely, Roundstone, Cashel, Recess, Renvyle, Letterfrack, Moyard, Cleggan, and Claddaghduff – the school building urgently needs to be replaced. I will work to ensure that West Connemara students get a new school building.
the Government focus on cutbacks affects the poorest and the most vulnerable in Connemara and elsewhere, for instance: • Proposal to deny medical cards to over 70’s – wrong and only partially withdrawn. • 2% levy on incomes – wrong; should not be imposed on lower income families. • Reduced farm payments in Connemara – wrong; should be reinstated and paid in full. • Vulnerable should not be paying for the mistakes of bankers and developers – wage reductions for low paid should be withdrawn as with reduced farm payments for our small farmers. MESSAGE – VOTING FOR ME WILL SEND OUT A MESSAGE TO THE GOVERNMENT THAT THEIR FINANCIAL MISMANAGEMENT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE TO YOU. Only with your support will I have the chance to prove that I can be an effective public representative for the area. Give me that chance and allow me to prove what I can do. Vote Number 1 for me on the 5th June and continue your preferences for the other Fine Gael candidates, Sean Kyne and Seosamh O Laoi. Please feel free to contact me if you wish to discuss any issue with me. Yours sincerely,
CUTBACKS There are many other issues to be addressed and I will be taking up these during the Campaign. National Politics will have a bearing on this election, particularly when
May 2009
Eileen Mannion Sky Road, Clifden, Connemara 087-955-5645 Connemara View Newspaper