Nuacht Chláir April 2015

sport pages 14–15

Photos from Clare River Harriers Fun-Run/Walk 2015

features page 8

Taking Time to be Grateful for What We Have

Nuacht Chláir The free community-curated newsletter for Claregalway April 2015 | Vol.19 iss.7

For more local news see www.Claregalway.info

Club and Community Combine to Develop New Knockdoemore Centre

This month sees the opening of the Community, Sports & Social Centre at Knockdoemore Park. The new centre comprises four changing rooms, assembly room, exercise rooms, kitchen and meeting rooms, and will be able to cater for the hundreds of adults and children in the community wishing to avail of the facility.

The site for the Centre was provided by Claregalway gaa Club while

the local Community Development Company, Cairde Mór, came on board to help fund-raise and plan the facilities. After close to two years of planning and grant applications, Grant-aid was finally approved in August 2014 and the work to publish tenders and secure the contractors began in earnest. Local company, Kesel Construction Ltd were awarded the tender and the building activity took off with a flurry through the Autumn. The result was a very quick and efficient build-out. As always, the finances were the biggest challenge but thanks to the loan capital received from Claregalway gaa and members of the community, the project stayed on schedule and

the Centre is now a reality. The Centre has wonderful scope for future further development and will cater well for the ever increasing young population. Further developments planned in Knockdoemore Park over the coming years will include the construction of a walkway and cycle path and the extension of pitches and all weather playing facilities. “The whole Knockdoemore Centre and future Park developments are a shining example to all of what can be achieved when like-minded people, Sports and Community organisations get together and work towards a common goal—in this case, better facilities for our young people and a common desire to plan positively for future generations,” said Cairde Mór Chairman John Morrin recently.

events pages 18–20

news pages 24–27

Coláiste Bhaile Chláir April 2015 News

Report on the first Féile do lá le Padraig 2015

2 An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe

Please Don’t Spray Herbicides to Get Rid of Dandelions

Now that spring has arrived, I would like to share some interesting information with our

neighbours. I see a lot of people in the area trying to get rid of dandelions using herbicides. These herbicides can migrate to our water system, and are extremely dangerous for the environment. It is a big problem that we can help tackle on a local level by avoiding pervasive chemicals in our gardens and farms. On another note, dandelions—as well as looking great—have numerous health benefits. These include relief from liver disorders, diabetes, urinary disorders, acne, jaundice, cancer and anemia. It also helps in maintaining bone health, skin care and is a benefit to weight loss programs. In fact I have them every day in salads or smoothies. There is plenty of information available online on both the health benefits of dandelions, and the harmful effects of herbicides on our environment and our health. Visit Claregalway.info for links.

Bainigí taitneamh as 21–30. Cuirfímid fáilte roimh bhur gcuid tuairimí. Feedback welcome!

Seo thíos roinnt dena sean-fhocla 21–30:

Is maith an t-anlann an t-ocrasHunger is a good sauce

Ní mhaireann tada ach sealNothing is everything (enduring)

Níl lá dá fhad nach dtagann a thráthnónaEvening descends even upon the longest (most enjoyable) day

Is olc an chearc nach scríobann dí féinIt is a bad hen that will not scrape for herself

Níl taoile dá mhéid nach dtránnEven the highest tide ebbs

Ní hé lá na gaoithe lá na seolbThe windy day is not the day for the scollops (thatching)

’Sé capall na hoibre an biaThe work-horse is the (provider of) food

Nuair a ghoireann an chuach ar chrann gan duilliúr, díol do bhó agus ceannaí arúrWhen the cuckoo hatches in a tree without foliage... Emergency!

Níl aon tinteán mar do thinteán féinThere is no fireside like your own

Is maith an scathán súil charadThe eye of a friend is a good mirror

Proverbs

by Tom Monahan

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

We received this information from a reader concerned with the amount of local residents using herbicides to eradicate dandelions.

To share local news or stories, visit Claregalway.info or contact us through our Facebook page facebook.com/Claregalway.info Alternatively you can phone Josette on 086 391 3852 or email [email protected]

www.Claregalway.info 3

by Josette Farrell

Welcome to the April 2015 issue of Nuacht Chláir! We have been blessed to date with beautiful weather and it was particularly welcoming when the children/students were on Easter holidays. We hope you enjoy this month’s issue, which brings you articles from our regular contributors Edward Coppinger (page 13), giY Ireland (pages 10–11), Bridge and Crosswords with Brian, and news from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir (pages 24–27). Read Móna’s wonderful story about her return to health on page 8. It is so inspirational as is Móna herself.We also have some new features, including a Fashion and All Things Beautiful article by local fashion blogger Leanne Gallagher. Check it out on page 9. Our latest Cúinne Gaelach (opposite)—a feature by Tom Monahan—has some more seanfhocla to learn this month, and there is a great report by Fiona Dempsey on the recent Féile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir on pages 18–20, which was a wonderful day for the community. The organising committee did an excellent job and hopefully it will be become an annual event in the village. Well done to our two local participants in the Galway Rose selection on April 18th, Michelle Quinn and Michelle Hurney, who represented Claregalway Agricultural Show and Love It Fashions Tuam respectively. These exemplary young ladies were excellent on the night but were narrowly defeated by Olga Lee from Moycullen who was chosen as this year’s Galway Rose. Congratulations to Olga and we wish her success in Tralee. Congratulations also to our local handball star Niamh Heffernan, who won the All-Ireland u13 handball final on April 19th. This young athlete has done the parish proud with her fantastic achievement. We have such talent in the community, it’s wonderful to be able to share good news! There are also some great events planned for the future. Visit Claregalway.info/events for the latest. The Summer Music Festival with Mike Denver takes place on 9th of August. Anyone interested in helping out and planning this event, your support would be appreciated. Email [email protected] for info. We will keep you informed on the venue when it’s confirmed. As always, your feedback and opinions are greatly accepted. This is our nineteenth volume and you can check out our archives online all the way back to issue one in August 1996! We now have more than 6,000 likes on our Facebook page Claregalway.info, keeping you up to date with local news, events and photos.

Until next time, Josette

EditorialYou can submit stories & photos by posting to Nuacht Chláir, ‘Currach Ruadh,’ Creig Buí,Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe.

by emailing [email protected]

by phoning Josette on 086 391 3852 / 091 798 430

via our website www.Claregalway.info

or via our Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/Claregalway.info

Nuacht Chláir is an open access publication and we try to include everything that’s submitted, subject to the law of the land, and editorial judgement. This judgement is exercised by the volunteer production team in order to preserve balance in the newsletter. We hold no political bias. The views & opinions expressed in the articles are those of the individual contributors and are not necessarily those of the production team.

We are always on the lookout for new local contributors. If you would like to share some local news, photos, events or stories, just get in touch. We are constantly updating our website Claregalway.info, where you can keep up to date with local news, sports, features, notices and events, read up on some the history of Claregalway, or check out our ever-expanding local business directory. If you have any suggestions for features you would like to see on the site, let us know. Finally, don’t forget to like our popular Facebook page at facebook.com/Claregalway.info where we share local news, links, events and photos.


At Cregboy Golf Academy we like to be realistic and honest in our self-praise. As the old saying goes self

praise is no praise. In that light, we will provide you an accurate description of the services we offer—here goes: We have a driving range that provides golf lessons for all ages and levels of ability. It is open from 10am to 10pm, seven days a week, but this is subject to change in the event of extreme weather conditions. Complete beginners are welcome, as well as small children and dogs, so long as they are on a leash. In the case of children this leash can be imaginary, but it must be there all the same. We can provide clubs for both adults and children, and we do charge unless you break them. We have group lessons starting next week for women, and for children, and in both cases they are designed to be energetic, relaxing, informative and free from stressful complicated information. In the case of women these lessons are guaranteed to make you look and feel younger. This claim is backed up by numerous studies about how golf can maintain youthful appearance and good health. In the case of children, these lessons are guaranteed to make your child seem slightly older. Practising and playing golf has a meditative effect which calms young excited minds and keeps them out of mischief. We are located roughly fifteen minutes from Galway city centre, close to Claregalway. This varies of course, and during rush hour traffic when it is raining, the trip to Cregboy can take anything up to four days. In this case you are best walking, which only takes two and a half hours.

Cregboy Golf Academy, Cregboy, Claregalway

Thanks a million to everyone who came to Dad’s retirement party on the 11th of April in the Summerfield Bar & Restaurant. It was a special night of celebrating for Dad seeing all his work, business, employees, suppliers, family, and friends. Dad is 32 years this week working for Brian Martyn so he is well due to retire especially when he turns 64 this week as well. Enjoy every second of it! Thanks to everyone who helped in any way to pull the night together especially Treat Café, Tommy O’Flaherty, Catherine McKenna and Summerfield Bar Claregalway—really appreciate it. Kenny Murphy

Cregboy Golf Academy, Probably the Best Golf Academy in Cregboy

On a similar note, best of luck to Kenny and Trisha Murphy who have taken over Martyn Fuels. “We are delighted to have the opportunity to run one of the largest solid fuel and bottled gas businesses in the west of Ireland. We plan to use our Facebook page for giveaways, sales, promotions and of course advertising. We would really appreciate if all our friends and customers shared and liked our page!”

091 798 878087 7792506

[email protected]


Support Grows for Claregalway BypassOriginally published in the April 2005 Nuacht Chláir

Ten Years Ago in Claregalway This is a snippet of local ‘news’ (now history), printed in the Nuacht Chláir ten years ago.

The Claregalway Bypass Action Group met with two senior Government Ministers recently. On Thursday 24th of

March 2005, the Tánaiste Mary Harvey visited Claregalway with Noel Grealish TD and experienced the afternoon traffic congestion which is the norm every day in Claregalway in recent years. Mr Michael McDowell, TD, Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, met the Action Group with Noel Grealish TD on Wednesday 2nd of April and confirmed that he would recommend to the NRa that work should commence on a bypass as soon as possible.

Letters of support have been received recently from Mr Seán Ó Neachtain, Mep and Mr Jim Higgins, Mep. Mr Higgins lives in Ballyhaunis and travels through the congested village regularly en route to Galway. Latest official figures show that there are 29,000 vehicle movements seven days a week through the village. Delays of over 30 minutes twice daily are the norm during peak hours. No other town or village in Ireland has a traffic problem of this magnitude. With a population third in size after Dublin and Cork, Galway is 10th on the NRa’s spending per county to date. ↗

Read news from 1996 onwards at Claregalway.info/archives or check out the Parish History at Claregalway.info/history

During a meeting with the Claregalway Bypass Action Group, the Tánaiste agreed to recommend to the NRa that a bypass should be built as soon as possible to alleviate the traffic problems.

→ Galway Co. Council Roads Department is actively pursuing the bypass and is in consultation with the NRa, identifying a route and designing the road. The Action Group is calling on Galway’s Ministers to make public their support for the Claregalway community as well as the thousands of commuters delayed in traffic congestion daily. Government support and NRa funding to reduce the continued waste of resources is essential.

Pictured is Noel Grealish campaigning for the Claregalway Bypass in 2004. Very little has progressed since.


Local Notices

Walking Club meets every Sunday at the Arches Hotel at 10:30am and on Wednesdays meet at Claregalway Church at 7.30pm. All are welcome. For info contact Edel—085 102 0611.

Legion of Mary meeting every Monday from 7.15–8.15pm in Cairdeas. New members welcome.

The Claregalway & District Day Care Centre is now open five days Monday–Friday from 9.30am–4pm. For more information please drop in, contact 091 739 385, 086 445 8989, or visit claregalwaydaycarecentre.ie.

Claregalway Parent & Baby/Toddler Group meet every Wednesday from 10am–12 noon at Claregalway Community Centre. All welcome. Contact Yvonne 087 943 7410.

Kids Singing Class for ages 7–10 started back on January 19th in Lackagh! Build confidence, learn new songs and improve breathing. One-to-one lessons and exam prep available. Fully qualified teacher. For more information contact Siobhán on 0878527760.

Adult Music Classes, subject to demand, are being offered at Lackagh Village Centre on Button Accordion, Tin Whistle, Keyboard, Bodhrán & Céilí Drums. For further info call Padraig on 086 3166 972.

Claregalway/Carnmore Active Retirement meeting every Friday at 10.30am in Cairdeas. New members are always welcome.

French for all!Qualified teacher and native speaker Aline O’Connell is giving afterschool classes in Cregmore Ns, Claregalway Ns, Claregalway Educate Together Ns. Private grinds also available, and preparation for Junior and Leaving Cert. Classes tailored for all needs, good rates and great results! For more information, contact Aline 087 743 88 10.

Claregalway/Carnmore Senior Citizens Cards and bingo held every Monday night at 8pm in Cairdeas Parish Meeting Room.

You can share local notices online at www.Claregalway.info


Jade stopped and through her tears she saw a wolf, majestic and regal looking. Jade thought that she ought

to be scared but something about The Wolf made her feel safe. “Hello,” she breathed quietly, not wanting to scare The Wolf, as soon as the thought crossed her mind she thought how silly it was, The Wolf didn’t look like the kind of creature that scared easily. Jade took small steps, one step and she’d look up, holding her breath, waiting to see if The Wolf would run. Jade kept doing this until she was almost an inch from The Wolf. She reached out her hand to rub him and he ran, ran as fast as the wind into the pines! The Wolf had made Jade feel relaxed and as she walked back home she realised she would have kept going if it wasn’t for The Wolf and would have got lost. Over the next few weeks Jade couldn’t stop thinking about The Wolf. At school she was even more dreamy than usual. The Sunday after the last day of school Jade went into the pine forest to see if she could find The Wolf. Jade went to the place where she had first seen him. There he was, sleeping, looking just as magnificent as before. Jade could hardly believe her eyes, over the last few weeks she had thought that maybe The Wolf had been a fragment of her imagination but as Jade looked at him she thought he was too beautiful, too real for her to have imagined him. The Wolf had woken up and was now looking at Jade as if he could read every thought that crossed her mind, hear every beat of her heart. Slowly The Wolf got up and started to walk towards Jade. “Hello,” she breathed for the second time, this time though when Jade reached out her hand, The Wolf let her stroke him, his fur felt amazingly soft and was a beautiful sliver grey. It was at that moment that something amazing passed between Jade and The Wolf!

Best wishes and happy retirement to Jimmy Grealish who retired last week from the filling station at Carnmore Cross. Jimmy has always been a great supporter of local causes over the years and especially the Hurling Club. He has employed many locals at his shop and filling station and gave many young people from the locality their first job. His smiling face and banter at the pumps will be missed.

Shop Local at Hughes SuperValu in Claregalway! Now stocking a wide range of local produce, giving small producers a big chance—please support!

The Wolf by Uisce de Burca

Congratulations to a very special couple Malachy and Patsy Qualter who celebrated their Ruby Wedding Anniversary recently. Warm wishes to you both and wishing you many more years of happiness together.

This month we’re delighted to feature part of a story written by eleven-year old Uisce De Burca last year when she was in fifth class at Claregalway Educate Together, called The Wolf.

8 The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway

I missed my deadline, which might be the first time ever... I’ve been a bit sick. I know that sounds strange, and there is no need to get into the nitty gritty of the details either...

Taking Time to Be Thankful for What We Have

All you need to know is that I dodged a huge bullet. I am thankfully on the road to recovery

now after more than a year of tests, surgery, treatment and even more blood tests. The thing is, for the last six months, I have not told a soul, save my immediate family and a couple of very close friends (and very understanding editor). The illness consumed me, my actions, my every thought. I hated the thoughts of anyone knowing in case they treated me like I was ‘sick’. While I was dealing with a very real and physical illness, it became painstakingly aware just how easy it is to let one’s mental health slip when something else (especially worrying) occupies our thoughts morning, noon and night. Up to this stage of the game, I have been fortunate to have always been of strong mind and body. Because of this, I knew almost immediately that something was wrong when I began to feel ‘not myself’ so I pushed and pushed with the doctors until the issue was diagnosed and treated. Now, the recovery and prevention path is all mine. The lesson you should take from this is to trust your instincts and tell the doctors everything, no matter how small the symptoms. Keep a little notebook by your bed and make notes of things that are new or different to your ordinary wellbeing.

I wasn’t dying, there are millions of others in the world far worse off than I, so I just kept telling myself to keep my head down and carry on—who on earth would want to listen to a seemingly healthy woman complaining about an illness that no one can see?

This can only work as a coping mechanism for so long. Sooner or later you will become exhausted from not letting the frustrations of falling ill—out. Anyway, to make a long story as short as I can and to hopefully give you reason to start thinking of your summer plans, I missed my deadline for this month’s issue of Nuacht Chláir because I was on holidays. Not the gone away kind of holiday either. More the we have our eldest kid’s confirmation next week and need to get stuff done around the house kind of holiday. My mind and body are in a very healthy new space. A place where I am certain I will be allowing time for me, and know that the rest of the family will be just fine. As a parent, I’ll bet this sounds like an impossibility to most of you, but trust me when I tell you, it can be done. It must be done. So there you have it. I will get back to sharing recipes and photos in the next issue and also have a few excellent tips on places to go in the mid-lands for summer holidays.

Thanks for reading!Móna Wise

For more of Móna’s stories visit her website at WiseWords.ie or facebook.com/WiseWordsMona

Móna Wise

The other thing to remember is to talk. Talk to your family, talk to your friends. I know this was the hardest thing for me, and silly too, considering I love nothing more than a good chat.

Delighted to hear you’re in recovery Móna. Your words are always so inspiring and we are very proud to have you contributing regularly to Nuacht Chláir. Thank you, Josette.


Fashion & All Things Beautiful

Spring Has Sprung!

Time to add some colour to our wardrobes! Welcome to the first part of Fashion & All Things Beautiful in Claregalway. There

are so many beautiful things in Claregalway it was hard to know where to start. I visited Chez Val run by Valerie Totman to view the latest collection of clothing from Captain Tortue a French clothing label, a comfortable, trendy, original and great quality clothing for Women and Children. They certainly have you covered with the funky colours and prints this Spring. Love how you can achieve so many different looks with their tops. This top below is reversible with 2 looks in 1 and also just add a long-sleeve white or navy top underneath depending on the weather. With nautical a big trend this season its a great buy. Jeans are super soft and stretchy and nice and comfy for everyday wear.

by Leanne Gallagher, itsallaboutbeingu Fashion & Beauty Blog

• Stripy Top €77, size 6–24• Pom Pom Scarf €30• Pink Jeans €77, size 6–20

• Top Same• Scarf Same• Grey Jeans €74, size 6–20

• Reversible Top with Cami €81• Long Sleeve Black Top €40• Grey Jeans €74 (same as above)• Orange Scarf €40

• Available in size 6–24• Available in size 6–24• Available in size 6–20Large enough to use swimsuit wrap on holidays

The top above is also reversible and comes with a cami. I have added a long sleeve black top from Captain Tortue also which is great with lots of other pieces in the range.

• Dress €100• Necklace €26• Scarf €30

• Top €56, size 6–24• Jeans Same as opposite• Scarf Same

• Dress €100• Necklace €26• Scarf €30

• Top €56, size 6–24• Jeans Same as opposite• Scarf Same

Kids clothing ranges from age 6–16.

This really is only a small glimpse at the fabulous fashion available at Chez Val. For more information about hosting a clothing party or visiting Chez Val phone Valerie on 086 320 7202 or you can also email [email protected].

Until next time xoxo

Leanne Gallagheritsallaboutbeingu.comFashion & Beauty Blog


A few months ago, I was giving a talk about growing things (as you do) to a giY group and was discussing the growing of spuds when a woman put up her hand to comment. She told us about a tradition in her family when the first new spuds of the season were being harvested.

Her grandmother would always take a small batch of new spuds and put

them in a biscuit tin, throw in a small covering of soil, put a lid on top and then bury the tin in the garden. The tin would wait patiently in the soil for six months and then on Christmas Eve they would dig it up so that they could have new spuds for Christmas dinner. What a marvellous thing. I was struck that night, as I always am, by the irresistible sense of camaraderie in the room. The fact that you know everyone in the room is either currently growing food or interested in growing food means that you can strike up a conversation instantly with anyone. That was the idea behind the creation of the first giY group back in 2008 in Waterford, when a merry band of giYers came together with the idea of helping each other to grow food. And that ethos continues to inform the expansion and evolution of the giY group network. It is a belief that growing food is easier and more fun, if you come together with other people to do it. The Waterford group was meant to be a one-off, but compelling ideas have their own momentum. Within a couple of months other people had taken the idea and adapted it to create a giY group in their own community. A hallmark of the movement is that it is spontaneously

evolving. There are groups of all shapes and sizes and types. The more people that get involved, the more the network changes. Ideas are shared, interesting things happen. New types of giY groups emerge—in work places, in homes, in community gardens. Groups are the beating heart of the giY movement, and local champions are the change-makers that make it all happen. If you’re willing to get your hands dirty and start a giY group in your community, get in touch—we’d love to help.

Grow It Yourself April 2015

Tip of the MonthAs long as the weather is not too harsh, April is the perfect month for sowing onions. Generally most GIYers grow onions from sets (basically baby onions) but you can also grow from seed. Sets will mature quickly. Sow sets 10cm apart in rows 25cm apart. Push the set in to the soil so that the tip is just about visible above the surface. Firm in well.


To Do in the Garden this MonthIf poor weather in March has hampered your outdoor work, then April is the month to catch-up. The key words for April are weeds and slugs. You need to stay on top of them both. Check your early spuds regularly and earth-up as required. Water your tunnel/greenhouse—things can get pretty warm on a nice sunny April day and seedlings will dry out quickly.

SowIndoors: lettuce, tomato, pepper, chilli-pepper, cucumber, celery, celeriac, basil, leeks, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, parsley, courgette, marrow, globe artichoke, beans, sweet corn and pumpkin.

Outdoors: broad bean, onion sets, pea, beetroot, cabbage, spinach, Brussels sprouts, parsnip, spring onion, leek, carrot, radish, broccoli, turnip. Plant out cabbage plants when they are 15/20 cm tall into well prepared soil that has been manured.

HarvestStored fruit and vegetables are likely to be a distant memory at this stage and new crops are only starting to trickle in which makes April a tricky proposition. The middle of this month might see the first asparagus and the first early spring cabbage. The other two star performers this month are purple sprouting broccoli and rhubarb.

This article was written by Michael Kelly, who is a freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY.© GIY Ireland 2015—all rights reserved.

The Obsessionby Fiona Place

He is a small black and white mutt, follows me everywhere

When I go out, his pleading eyes beg me to stay

I walk him three times a day, sometimes four

Feel guilty if he misses a long walk

I feed him twice a day, sometimes snacks in between

Feel guilty leaving him alone for too long

I begin to panic, I watch the clock

I rush home thinking I’m the worst dog owner ever

I imagine a myriad of disasters

Accidents left in the house etc.

I have left him in the back garden once but

The guilt of leaving him outside is worse than the

Guilt of leaving him inside alone

And when I get home, he is always asleep

No accidents, no howling, no nothing

Just the crazy shit that goes on in my head

And as long as Pebbles is with me

I will always feel this way

Fiona Place is based in Galway. She has been writing poetry for a number of years and finds it very therapeutic. Her ideas come from her own experiences.


Congratulations and best wishes to Sinead McCormack Goaley and John Goaley on the birth of their beautiful baby girl on the 7th of April 2015.

Claregalway Educate Together NS, Connacht Champions 2015! Students of CeT Ns went to Mary I in Limerick on Wednesday and had an amazing time. Six games later we got silver medals. Second in Ireland in Mixed Volleyball. Thrilled as it was our first time to reach the All-Ireland. Connacht did really well with gold for the boys final, the girls final and silver for ours.

My name is John Cunniffe. I live in Kiltullagh, Athenry. I attended the Franciscan College, Multyfarnham, where I obtained a certificate in Horticulture and then progressed to the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin Dublin where I gained a Diploma in Amenity Horticulture. I was employed as a Clerk of Works by local authorities overlooking landscaping projects for twelve years. I have my own landscaping business since 2005. I hold a certificate in Train the Trainer Fetac level 6 for the delivery of Horticultural courses.

I have recently taken over the management of the Garden Centre in the JpK complex, Knockdoemore, Claregalway. I carry a vast variety of trees and shrubs and also offer a consultancy landscaping service. If you wish to have your basket, window boxes, tubs or planters filled, I provide this service also.


St James Choir practice at 8.15pm every Tuesday in Cairdeas Meeting Room, beside the Church. New members are most welcome.

ClaregalwayParish@eircom.netwww.AssumptionAndSaintJamesParish.comRadio Mass fM106.4Facebook ClaregalwayParish

The Parish Office, operated by Teresa Payne, Secretary, is located in Claregalway village beside the Church.Contact 091 798 741 / [email protected]

Claregalway Church Sacrament TimesDaily MassSunday 9 & 11am Monday 9:30am Tuesday 9:30am Wednesday 9:30am

Thursday 7:30pm Friday 9:30am Saturday 9:30amVigil (Saturday) 7.30pm

Sacrament of BaptismBaptismal preparation training night takes place on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in Cairdeas. Baptisms are celebrated on the first Sunday of the month at noon and also the third Saturday of the month at 4pm. Booking forms are available from the Parish Office.

Sacrament of MarriagePlease contact Parish Office for a booking form.

Tune in to 106.4FM to hear Mass in Claregalway Church live every day.

R.i.p. Mary Mullins, Cregmore

We welcome with great joy Matthew Finn, Bláithín Concannon, Ava Mellotte, Mallaigh O’Connell & Michael John Connell, Harvey O’Flynn, Natalia & Zuzanna Malinowska, Maksymilian Sadowsky & Adam O’Donnell into our Christian community. Congratulatons to their parents and Godparents.

The Farbregaby Edward Coppinger Who is the man in the corn we’d ask,Why is he so forlorn sad and alone,Then granddad used to take us to taskSaying, “because the seeds are all sown”.

His task is to scare the crows awayWho steal the newly sown seed,And works so hard all hours of the dayAgainst birds known for their greed.

He’s a Farbrega to some a scarecrow,That works in cold wind and rain,By these two names we mostly knowA worker who will never complain.

The scarecrow can be a thing of beautyOr the Farbrega as in Galway is known,Oh lonely and silent his vigilant dutyIn the middle of a field on his own.

Some used to sew buttons for eyesWith a hat that had seen better days,Around the neck well worn collars and tiesAnd a variety of staggering arrays.

A man in Moonard dressed one as a Guard,And a Knockdoe farmer just for fun,For the church and law had no regardDressed one up as a Carmelite nun.

A chap in Coolarne kept one in a barnThat resembled a large leprechaun,Of which was told many a good yarn,When it done duty around Turlough Ban.

Granddad used to say, “now between you and meIsn’t a Farbrega an expression of art”—That in Ireland you’ll never again see,Oh that thought breaks my old heart!

Mischievous Putachs used to add to or alter some that caused annoyance and puzzlement to farmers.

To share local news or stories, visit Claregalway.info or contact us through our Facebook page facebook.com/Claregalway.info


The crowds out at The Claregalway Prom!

Local lads in the Corporate Park

There was a great turnout at the Claregalway Fun-Run/Walk in Claregalway Corporate Park, in aid of Claregalway Day Care Centre on the 14th of April. Photos taken by Josette Farrell

Clare River Harriers Fun-Run/Walk 2015

We asked our readers on Facebook to come up with a caption for this photo, and Gina Loughnane earned the most likes with “I ran, I ran, as fast as I can... but I couldn't catch up with the man with the pram!”

Coláiste Bhaile Chláir Alan Mongey with student Darren Costello

Anyone for water?!

Participants of the fun-run cooling down in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir

For more photos visit Claregalway.info/photos


Julien and Emma Flynn after the run

Declan Varley with his daughter Giselle

And they’re off!

Approaching the finish line!

At the registration desk

The Flemings


For any Nuacht Chláir readers, simply use the discount code ZHKJHN at the checkout to receive 20% discount (excluding shipping). For more of Patrick’s photos, visit PhotoBlog.ie.

Beautiful Galway Photos by Patrick DinneenPatrick Dinneen is from Cork but has been living in Galway for the last ten years and has fallen in love with Galway. He finds Galway a vibrant, busy city but one that has retained its personal feel.

In these photos he has captured some of the essence of Galway; a

traditional pub, The Claddagh and The Long Walk, Galway Cathedral and the world famous Galway Races. The photo of a man outside a pub (The Crane Bar) was featured in The LA Times travel section. He has held several successful exhibitions in The Galway Fringe Festival. Patrick’s favourite style of photography is abstract. He has a natural talent for creating an original and memorable abstract photo from a scene that others would overlook. Many of his photos burst with strong colours which reflect his happy, outgoing personality. You can view all his favourite photos, including Galway photos at PhotoBlog.ie/buy-prints. Prints are available to by in many formats (prints, framed, canvas, metal prints, iPhone covers and even pillows!).


Younger in springtime are you… the song goes and how true it is. Though the days have been by and large cold and wet, we have already had a sweet taste of the spring and it has given us a new spring in our step. It makes you feel younger and more alive!

Thought for the Month

The Springtime of Life

I love spring. It is truly a beautiful, magical and wonderful time of the

year, as the trees, flowers, shrubs and bushes start to bloomand. Spring for me is also a time of new light, new life, new birth, new spirit, new beginnings and new hops. It’s resurrection time in our lives so to speak. It makes me think about the many blessings that spring showers upon us, such as the freshness in the air, wonderful breezes, birds, song, lots of growth, baby animals of all kinds emerging, fresh water flowing...

Spring CleaningSpring is the time of year when many people take on spring cleaning projects inside and outside their homes and offices. But what about inside your heart and inside your soul? Since we put so much time and effort into cleaning our homes, offices and outer self, shouldn’t we also do some spiritual spring cleaning of our heart, soul and inner self? There comes a time when we must clean out the wardrobes of our life so that we may have room for items that will enhance our life. Throw away any hatred that may be lurking there and be sure to toss out jealousy, bad attitudes, dishonesty, complaints and hypocrisy. Before you finish, throw away that grudge you’ve been carrying against someone. Make room for love, honesty, forgiveness and kindness and not to mention thankfulness for all God’s blessings. Save space for reverence and respect for God, from whom all goods gifts come.

As your thought for the week, remember that each new day is like a cleared field ready for planting. Your thoughts, attitudes and actions are the seeds you plant. Choose only the seeds that will produce a bountiful harvest of love, care, prosperity and peace.

The Magic PipeSpring is the perfect time to effect a positive change in our lives because the ever-lengthening days of warmth and light and of nature’s responses to them are powerful cues for new growth. Spring urges us to plant some, grow some and bloom some. Spring brings us new hope that one day those of us searching for the light at the end of our tunnel will see the light shine through, claiming victory over our burdens and worries. Let me share with you this lovely poem by E.L. Marsh—The Magic Piper:

by Ronan Scully

You can read more of Ronan’s Thoughts online at Claregalway.info/tag/thoughts

There piped a piper in the wood,Strange music—soft and sweet—

And all the little wild things, came hurrying to his feet.

They sat around him on the grass,Enchanted, unafraid,

And listened, as with shining eyes, sweet melodies he made.

The wood grew green, and flowers sprang up,The birds began to sing;

For the music it was magic, and the piper’s name was—spring.’


After years of ‘we should do something’; ‘Claregalway should have its own’; ‘it’d be only right to do it

ourselves’—it was eventually done. A hard working and dedicated committee of Claregalwegians finally took the initiative and organised a festival to celebrate St Patrick’s Day in our village. Many challenges had to be overcome and obstacles surmounted but the inaugural Féile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir (Claregalway’s St Patrick’s Day Festival) was held in 2015. Local groups were invited openly to perform at the festival and many groups accepted the invitation. Local talent of a very high standard was showcased at the event. The DJ for the occasion was Adrian Hanley whose assortment of music ensured the crowd was entertained between acts. The children from Growing Tree Montessori—all outfitted for the occasion in festive attire, opened the festival with a telling of the story of St Patrick. This, together with their singing and dancing thoroughly entertained the crowd and set a high bar for the other acts to follow. The children were followed onto the stage by set dancers from Renmore—Damhsoirí na dTreabh. The dancers performed energetic sets, namely the Ballyvourney Jig and the Connemara Set which culminated in members of the audience joining in for the last part—Maggie in the Wood. St Patrick (aka Fr Eugene McLoughlin sMa) graced the festival with his presence after being transported via a pony and trap, driven by John McDonagh, from the sMa House in Claregalway. Fr Eugene had penned a song based on the life of St Patrick especially for the occasion and accompanying himself on guitar regaled the crowd with the composition. Next to perform were the boys and girls from The Corrib Boxing Club, led by Seán Cumiskey. The crowd were treated to a display of boxing and kickboxing which left nobody in doubt as to the talent and skill possessed by these youngsters. Peter Hession was the next act on stage and he was accompanied by the Mooney Brothers. This was a lively, spirited performance on guitar and accordion treating the crowd to an assortment of foot-tappingly good traditional tunes. Laura Howard’s Drama group was the next act to entertain the crowd. Children from the community ensured all of our safety by successfully catching the bear from Laura’s story. The Drama group was followed on stage by the Corrib School of Irish Dancing. The boys and girls from the Corrib school, fresh from their successes at the Connaught Championships and in the throes

Claregalway’s First Féile do Lá le Padraig

by Fiona Dempsey


Many thanks are extended to all who attended the festival, without the support of the community the event could not have been the enjoyable event it proved to be.

of preparation for their appearances at the World Championships in Killarney next month captivated the crowd with their slip jigs, reels and jigs. Their routine concluded with a vivacious performance, in their hard shoes, of the traditional and apt dance, St Patrick’s Day. Bernardo the Magician was the next act on stage. He amused the children with his tricks and illusions using balloons, boxes, scarves and eggs to name but a few. His willing on-stage helpers were rewarded with Easter Eggs (sponsored by Hughes SuperValu) for volunteering their assistance. The musicians from Coláiste Baile Chláir were the next act on stage. They played a selection of tunes on instruments as varied as the uilleann pipes, the bodhrán, the accordion, the concertina, the guitar and the flute. As well as entertaining the crowd with their beautiful music, these talented musicians delighted the gathering with their renditions of songs, both old and new. The thoroughly enjoyable festival was then drawing to a close and the last act on stage was Gerry Mooney. He wrapped up the event with an enjoyable miscellany of songs including Galway Girl which didn’t fail in getting the children out dancing for one last whirl.

All the while the entertainment was taking place on stage there was a variety of other attractions to keep everybody entertained. The fascination with Michael O’Connell’s vintage tractors meant they were never without enthusiastic drivers. Likewise, Victor and Tom Spellman’s vintage car display appealed to young and old alike. Claregalway Historical and Cultural Society brought an assortment of artefacts from times past. Their display was always busy with people eager to learn about the past. While the adults were kept occupied with learning the children had the opportunity to put their art and craft skills to use. Cruthú Art Studio from Claregalway and Aisling Kearney from Beechmount Art Studio assisted the children in producing festive works of art and also offered face-painting to any who wished to avail of it. Bernardo The Magician’s Balloon modelling was also a big hit. Craig Stephens aka The Mad Scientist showed the children how to make a special green goo—the washing up liquid in the parish will not be safe from now on! The bouncing castle and the putting competition operated by The Cregboy Golf Academy also drew big numbers for the duration of the evening. The first ever Féile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir ended on a high note leaving the crowd gathered at

Continued overleaf


the Courtyard at Hughes in an elated mood having celebrated our Patron Saint’s Day in style. Photographs and comments about the event have been uploaded onto our Facebook page—Féile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir—Claregalway, why not like our page! Féile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir could not have happened without the help of businesses in the community who very generously donated the equipment that was needed to ensure the success of the festival. The trailer and steps were on loan from John Roche Transport, the tables and chairs were loaned from the SMA Fathers and the Claregalway Agricultural Show. The dance floor was donated and erected by Classic Marquees in Lydacan. The balloons and bunting that ensured the Courtyard was festively decorated for the occasion were sponsored by Inspirations and Treat Café respectively. Treat Café also supplied the discounted refreshments for the day. Sincere thanks are also extended to those who hung the bunting for the occasion, the painstaking task was undertaken voluntarily and their work certainly added to the occasion. As well as providing the perfect location Hughes SuperValu sponsored the advertising for the event and the treats provided for all of the performers. The Order of Malta on duty ensuring the safety of all who attended the festival came from Craughwell. Local businesses kindly provided the financial backing needed for the festival. Without their generous contributions the event would not have been possible and in turn it is hoped that those who enjoyed the festival might consider supporting these generous patrons wherever possible. The sponsors were: Americano Ice cream, The Arches Bar & Restaurant, Brendan O’Gorman Accountant, Claregalway Dental Surgery, Claregalway Hotel, Connaught Waste Recycling, Dr Day and Dr Twomey Medical Centre, Glynn’s Fruit & Veg, Jimmy Duggan Agricultural Contractor, John Mulholland Bookmakers, Michael Hannon Financial Consultant, Paul Harty Car Parts Warehouse, Pyramid Bookmakers, Summerfield Bar & Restaurant, T Duggan Garage, Treat Café and Whiriskey Refrigeration.

Go raibh maith agaibh go léir as teacht go dtí Fhéile Naomh Pádhraic Baile Chláir, táim cinnte gur bhain a lán daoine sult as an ocáid agus buiochas le Dia beidh muid abálta an Féile a cur í leith arís an bhliain seo chugainn.

Another community event is being planned! Summer Family Fun Day in Claregalway on 9th August

from 2–6pm with special guest Mike Denver playing. Donations/sponsorship will go to HandinHandWest.

Entry fee of €15 per adult, students €5, kids free! Anyone interested in helping out and planning this event , your support would be appreciated. You can email all queries

to [email protected].

Continued from page 19


by John Duffy MpsI

Slapped cheek disease is normally a mild, short illness. However, the rash may appear to be quite dramatic. No treatment is usually needed. However, it can cause harm to an unborn baby so women who are pregnant who have this illness need to seek medical advice.

Other symptomsAlthough the rash can look quite dramatic, the illness itself is usually mild. You will usually not feel too ill. You may have a headache, sore throat, runny nose or mild temperature (fever) that last for a few days and occur around 7–10 days before the rash appears. Occasionally, mild pain and stiffness develop in one or more joints for a few days. This is more common in adults than in children. You may have no symptoms. Around one in four people who become infected with this germ (virus) do not develop any symptoms at all. Some people just have a fever and feel generally unwell, without any rashes.

Are there any tests?This condition is usually diagnosed by the appearance of the classical rash on your cheeks. A blood test is sometimes performed. This will show if you have the disease and can also show if you have had this disease in the past. If you have had the disease in the past (even if you had it without developing any symptoms) then you will be immune to it.

Slapped Cheek DiseaseJohn Duffy Mpsi of Claregalway Pharmacy (091 799 754) has shared this information on slapped cheek disease. For more information, call in and speak with any member of staff.

Don’t forget to like Claregalway Pharmacy on Facebook, for regular updates & competitions!

Are there any complications from slapped cheek disease?Usually not. Rarely, the aching joint symptoms last for some time after the other symptoms have gone. The only times the illness may become more serious are: In children with some types of hereditary anaemia such as sickle cell disease, beta-thalassaemia and hereditary spherocytosis. This germ (virus) can cause these types of anaemia to become suddenly much worse. In people with a weakened immune system. If you have leukaemia or cancer, have had an organ transplant or have HIV infection then you may develop a more serious illness with this infection.

What is the treatment?You do not usually need any treatment. If you have a headache, temperature (fever) or aches and pains then painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen will help.Those people who develop complications (which is very rare) may require other treatment.

What is slapped cheek disease?Slapped cheek disease is sometimes called fifth disease or erythema infectiosum. It is an infection caused by the parvovirus B19 virus. It most commonly occurs in children aged 3–15 years, but anyone can be affected. It is infectious (can be passed on). The infectious period is for 4–20 days before the rash appears. By the time the rash develops, it is usually no longer infectious. Approximately 50–60% of people in the uK have had this infection in the past, usually without realising it. You only have slapped cheek disease only once in a lifetime. This is because you make antibodies during the infection which protect you from future infections with this same germ (virus).

What are the symptoms of slapped cheek disease?Typically, the rash looks like a bright red scald on one or both cheeks. It looks as if the cheek(s) have been slapped. Sometimes there is just a blotchy redness on the face. The rash is painless. Sometimes a more widespread faint rash appears on the body, arms, and legs. Occasionally, the rash on the face and body keeps fading and returning several times for up to several weeks. However, it is more common for the rash to come and go completely within a few days.


Bridge ColumnMinor suit slams Both vulnerable, Dealer North

North K Q A K Q 8 7 A Q 10 8 4 2

Local Notices

Naíonra Clúidín na mBabaíEnrollments are now being accepted

for Naíonra preschool (beside Claregalway community centre) for September 2015. The Naíonra is a preschool through the medium of

Irish. Free eCCe places are available for children born between 2nd of

February 2011 and 30th of June 2012. Tá fáilte roimh cách. No previous knowledge of Irish is necessary.

Phone Lisa at 087 2070558 (Mon–Fri 9.15am–12.15pm)

Bridge Club takes place Mondays at 7:30pm and

Friday mornings at 10:30am in the Claregalway Hotel.

Claregalway Yoga Upstairs at Hughes SuperValu

Morning & Evening Classes

Monday Morning 10.30–11.30am All levels welcome

Wednesday Evening 7.30–8.30pm Beginners gentle stretch

Phone Claregalway Yoga087 193 8495

West J 10 9 8 7 Q J 9 8 A 10 9 6

East 4 3 2 10 7 5 3 2 6 5 4 5 3

BiddingN E S W1C P 3C P4C1 P 4H2 P5C P 5S3 P6C4

Lead: H2

1 Gerber (asking for aces) 2 1 ace. 3 2 kings. 4 Could risk 6NT

In the above case, with relatively flat hands, the partnership has a combined 32 points. With more shapely hands, the points requirement is often much less. Whilst all of us have held dreadful hands like East’s, they are happily not too common. East’s lead of the H2 was fairly kind to declarer who could see a certain 5 club tricks, 3 spades, 2 diamond and 2 hearts, i.e. 12 tricks and small slam made. Note that North did not open 2NT (with 20 high card points) because he held two doubletons (Spades and Hearts).

South A 6 5 6 4 K J 3 2 K J 9 7


Yoga with GráinneUpstairs at Hughes SuperValu

Tuesdays 10am, Thursdays 6.45pm

Contact Gráinne on 087 923 4669

Baile Chláir Ramblers (Claregalway Walking Club)meet Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings each week and all are welcome. Contact Anne 087 248 5559

or Peggy 087 298 1594.

Pilates Classes Tuesday and Saturday mornings

in Corrib KickBoxing Club, Claregalway Corporate Park

from 11am–12pm. Call Eileen on 0866088137 for more info.

Sports Injury TherapySwedish Massage; Hot

Stone Massage and Reflexology.

Anne-Mullarkey-Moran, MNRRi, Mgpp, iTeC, Pollagh

House, Pollaghrevagh, Claregalway.

091 798 933 / 087 2485559 [email protected]

Registration is now taking place for the school year September 2015–

June 2016. Government grants are available for Montessori tuition eCCe Scheme. Please telephone to make an arrangement to view the school at a suitable time and date for you

on 091 798 160 or 087 943 0822.

East 4 3 2 10 7 5 3 2 6 5 4 5 3

For more news and events visit Claregalway.info or like our page on Facebook


Night at the DogsThe Parents Association of Coláiste Bhaile Chláir have organised A Night at the Dogs on Saturday May 9th in Galway Greyhound Stadium. It is hoped to raise funds for additional sporting facilities to accompany the new school building and for additional equipment to use as part of the schools sTeM programme. We extend an invite to all in the community whether you have children in the school or not. We hope that all parents and families of current students will be able to attend on the night. It is hoped to build a strong community around the school through annual events such as this and hope this first event can be the start of something very special. It is a great opportunity to meet other parents, students and members of the local community socially for a night of great fun and entertainment. Tickets are €10 per adult. Children up to 16 years go free. Tickets must be purchased in advance as they cannot be bought at the door on the night. Email [email protected] if you wish to attend and leave your name and number of tickets required and we will post out. There will be an open draw for all tickets bought with a 1st prize of €200 and 4 draws of €100 each.

Coláiste Bhaile Chláir April 2015 News

Spanish Exchange Students

Interview with Andrés Sanchezby Liam Molloy

On the 18th of March 2015 Coláiste Bhaile Chláir welcomed 28 Spanish students. I carried out an interview with Andrés Sanchez, one of the exchange students. He said our school is very different as they don’t wear a uniform in his school in Spain. His school is also very big as they have five buildings. In his school they are bilingual as there is an option to study some subjects in English. They are also allowed to leave the school grounds during break. Andrés said he preferred his school as there are only six classes while we have nine however Andrés said he likes the netbooks as they use pencil and paper. Andrés said his favourite subject are pe, Math and English. Andres attends ies Torreon Del Alcazar. Andrés is from Ciudad Real which translate to the Royal City, it is two hours from Madrid. Andrés said he really enjoyed his time in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir.

Visit from Mr Ciarán Morris, Ability WestOn Friday the 20th March Ciarán Morris spoke to some first year students in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir. The aim of his visit was to raise awareness about people with disability. He works for Ability West they provide services and supports to over 520 individuals with intellectual disability throughout Galway City and County. They provide quality supports and services to children and adults. Each person is supported and valued within an environment which promotes their overall autonomy, health and wellbeing and enables them to reach their potential. Mr Morris focused on the similarities between people rather than the differences. He showed examples of how people with disabilities could still go on to achieve many things. He taught us some basic sign language and helped us understand what a valuable service Ability West provides.


pDst—Young Economistby Louise Mahoney

On Wednesday the 18th of March, 28 first year students from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir attended the pDsT Young Economist of the Year Final 2014–15. The final was held in Maynooth University. During the day there were different talks such presentations on Behaviour Economics by Dr Pete Lunn, esRi and the winners from the previous year explaining the benefits of participating in the Young Economist of the Year (YeoTY). This national competition consisted of a junior (1st, 2nd and 3rd year) competition & Senior (5th & 6th year) competition. Each entrant had to create a presentation which could be a PowerPoint, Video, Mind map or Prezi. The presentation of the prizes could not have come sooner for some. The Junior prizes where presented first. There was a 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place and Highly Recommended winner for each PowerPoint, Video, Mind Map and Prezi. Then an Overall winner! Coláiste Bhaile Chláir were well represented in each category with Irene Ciobanu, Matthew Mohr, Simon Coyle, Eanna Kelly coming 1st, Rachel Flaherty, Katie Finnerty, Emily Wall, Alex Rafferty, Abigail Walsh, Mark Hughes coming 2nd, Anna O’Leary, Lucy Murray, Liam Molloy, Ethan Kaya, Killian Goaley coming 3rd and Matilda Wing, Rachel Scarry, Sarah McHale, Kaitlin Kearney, Nicola King, Andrea Glenane, Aoife McGrath, Rachael Hughes, Sinead Donovan, Christopher Sokunbi-Walton, Teigan O’Rourke, Rebecca Reilly highly Recommended.

Louise Mahoney, Coláiste Bhaile Chláir

I was the overall winner of The 2015 Young Economist of the Year and received a trophy and an iPad mini. My presentation was about how outside influences can affect our income, expenditure and household budgets. I thought a great way to explain this theory is to use a strong example. I used the crisis on Tory Island during the first few weeks in January 2015. Due to adverse weather conditions the Island was completely cut off from the Mainland. The Island ran out of vital supplies. This then led to having an impact of income, expenditure and household budgets. This was Coláiste Bhaile Chláir’s first year entering this competition which turned out very successful considering we were competing against 1st, 2nd and 3rd years Nationwide. Economists of the Future from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir!

Upforschool PetitionYou can show your support for all children to go to school without danger or discrimination—by signing the #UpForSchool Petition, this is a global petition to eliminate barriers to education & learning. “We don’t need your sympathy. We need your signature”—#UpForSchool.

www.aWorldAtSchool.org/upforschool

# SciFest11 Coláiste Bhaile Chláir projects will be on display in gMiT on May 14th as the students demonstrate their growing skill for scientific investigation. One particular emphasis this year will be on Mission to Mars projects where students have chosen to examine many different aspects of a manned Mission from Earth to Mars for colonisation. Some of this year’s projects include a great project by 2nd Years Patryk Kazimierczak, Cathal Brady and Christian Cotter who investigate how many kilograms of seed potatoes will the astronauts need to bring with them to Mars to ensure nutrition in the long run and Alaidh Fox and Deirdre Hughes’s new innovative mobility sensor stick for the blind. Students are working at lunch and after school to ensure they are ready and excitement is building for the event.

Help create a message no politician, government, or leader can ignore and demand that every child can go to school safely. Nothing changes without pressure. Sign the #UpForSchool Petition. Act Now.


Inver Think TankSecond Year sTeM students Patryk Kazimierczak, Jessica Connell, Maddie Duffy, Patrick Donovan and Ben Hugman won the overall Best School award for their contribution to Inver Think Tank project in association with Foróige and Techspace. They were faced with the challenge of identifying a problem that the local community could face in the year 2020 and use technology to solve that problem.

They chose to tackle the very worthy issue of poor mental health with their new invention the Virtual Reality Therapy device, a headset which allows the user to escape an unhappy reality and enjoy images of their favourite objects/scenes to relax and improve mood. They did a fantastic job of presenting their project to the group in Foróige Cafe on March 27th where they also listened to a brilliant presentation by the other winner Galway Autism Partnership. The whole class came to support them and were delighted to be treated to pizza for their efforts—wins all round!

TeenTech EventOn Friday 17th of April, 20 first year Coláiste Bhaile Chláir students attended the National TeenTech event in Nuig, the first of its kind in Ireland. The event was designed to engage sTeM literate students in activity and stimulate creative problem solving. The event was run in conjunction with the Galway Science and Technology Festival and was a great day out. Students spent the day figuring out how they could contribute to make life better in the year 2050 and will have the chance to explore three exhibits as follows:

Innovation Zone: students will work as a team to design and market an app.

Insight Exhibition: multiple stands and exhibits with mini challenges.

Challenge Zone: Hands on inter-school challenges run by local sTeM industries.

Cookery Competition as Gaeilge

Coláiste Bhaile Chláir’s first years had a cookery competition organised by their Home Economics teachers Ms Dolan and Ms Duggan. Every form had to compete against their classmates in a group of two or three to bake an apple crumble. There was about six or seven groups in every form, but the judges had to pick only one group.The judges are looking for specific qualities in the crumble and in the people carrying out the task. They looked at: Presentation of crumble, Correctly cooked, Tastes good, Hygiene and safety, Cleaning up, Work ethic From each form the students that got through were:1A—Libby O’Brien, Matthew Mokin and Abigail Walsh, 1B—Louise Mahoney and Niamh Heffernan, 1C—Eoghan Duggan, Gearoid Hennessy and Nathan Burke, 1D—Oisin Tobin, Mary Duggan and Niamh McGrath, 1E—Edward Britton, Gary Fox and Hannah Lund, 1F—Ciara Fox and Rachel McDonogh, 1G—Aisling Murphy, Shane Bermingham and Lisa Kelly, 1H—Saoirse Moran, Aoibhinn O’Connor and Darren Donoghue, 1I—Finegas O’Brien. The finals were held at 12pm on the 26th of March, and all the groups had 80 minutes to make their crumble. Ms Dolan was supervising, and keeping track of their cleaning. When every crumble was ready, the judges came in to taste the crumbles. When they were done, they discussed what they thought. In the end, the winners were 1D, which were Mary Duggan, Niamh McGrath and Oisin Tobin. In second was 1A, which was Abigail Walsh, Matttew Mokin and Libby O’Brien. In third was 1H, which was Saoirse Moran, Aoibhinn O’Connor and Darren Donoghue. All the participants did really well, and should be very proud for getting to the final.


For more news, stories and photos from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir, follow @ClaregalwayColl on Twitter or like Claregalway.info on Facebook.

1st Year SoccerThe u14s soccer team lost out in the quarter-final of the Fai Connaught Cup to Presentation College Headford on a 4–2 scoreline before the Easter break. They performed very well throughout the year and progressed to the knockout phases on top of their group but things just didn’t go their way on the day. Credit is due to the whole panel for a very good effort throughout the year. If the group stick together and continue to develop their game, they will hopefully go on to even greater things in the future. Well done. Back Row: Niall Tarmey, Liam McDonagh, Enda Collins, Shane Bermingham, Ciaran Keane, Mark Melody, Kristan Flaherty, Adam Heneghan, Michael Newell, Colm Moran. Front Row: Jamie Forde, Adam Kearney, Christopher Kelly, Eoin Gavin, Nathan Grainger, Tommy Callinan, Dillon Keogh, Josh Buckley, Shane Heneghan, Connor Swan, Rory Moran. Missing from photo: Darragh Berthez and Allyn McKenna Patterson.

Cruthú Art Studio’s beautiful space in the heart of Claregalway is available to rent for Art and Craft workshops. It is custom built with craft and Art classes in mind and has a kitchen area for the necessary tea and coffee. We are inviting local artisans who may like a space to teach their craft to pop in and see the space available. We would especially like to see some patchwork, jewellery making, card making, basket weaving or photography. In fact the studio is ideal for all kinds of crafts. Call us on 087 6866740 for information.

Art & Craft Workshop Space Available in Claregalway

To share local news or stories, visit Claregalway.info or contact us through our Facebook page facebook.com/Claregalway.info Alternatively you can phone Josette on 086 391 3852 or email [email protected]


Congrats to Darragh Jordan who won the u13 plate on Saturday 18th of April at the National Handball Championship.

Congratulations to Claregalway gaa Club Intermediate player Joe Kearney on getting Trench Cup 2015 All Ireland medal and winning Player of the Year at Garda College.

A General Public Meeting organised by the cemetery committee (with

a view to acquiring land for Claregalway Cemetery) will be held on Wednesday, 29th April at 8pm in

the sMa House, Claregalway. All parishioners are invited to attend. This is a very important meeting for

the community.

Claregalway Castle welcomes visitors on our Castle Tours which are open to the public on Thursday to Sunday 12pm to 4pm from March to September 2015 and open to by

arrangement any other time of year. A guide will be present each day and

for safety reasons visitors must be accompanied by guide at all times.


The course begins Wednesday April 29th to Wednesday June 3rd from 8–9.30pm. Fee is €70. For more information or to book, contact Mick on 087 9422 942 or [email protected].

Writing Workshop with Mick Donnellan in Lackagh

The Workshop will cover Modules in Fiction, Journalism, Theatre, Screenwriting, Poetry and various aspects of the Publishing industry. There will be a strong emphasis on Writing Technique and how each individual writer can find his/her voice and style. The course is open to all ages and is suitable for beginners as well as those with experience.

About Mick DonnellanMick Donnellan is from Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo. He completed an Ma in Writing at Nuig in 2004. Since then he has worked with RTÉ (Storyland) and Druid Theatre (New Writer’s Program) and went on to establish his own theatre company in 2010 (Truman Town Theatre). He wrote, produced, directed and toured five of his own Plays and recently had two novels published (El Niño and Fisherman’s Blues.) He has worked as a journalist and teacher all over the world and last year he sold the film rights of one of his Plays to a London film company and it’s international release is due later in 2015.

Mick Donnellan will chair a six week Writing Workshop at Turloughmore Social Centre on Wednesday nights from April 29th through to June 3rd from 8–9.30pm.Thanks to all who took part in the Passion Play in Claregalway

Church on the 3rd of April. Well done to all involved. A special tribute was paid to Kathleen Duggan Rip who had volunteered along with two other ladies to make the costumes, but unfortunately Kathleen passed away last month.

Over 400 hundred people attended the 6am Mass in Claregalway Franciscan Friary on the 5th of April where Fr Ian O’Neill and the sMa Priests celebrated the Mass. The beautiful music was played by the Brennan Brothers.


You can share stories by posting them to Nuacht Chláir, Currach Ruadh, Creig Buí,Baile Chláir, Contae na Gaillimhe.

by emailing them to [email protected] phoning Josette on 086 391 3852 / 091 798 430or you can message through our Facebook pagewww.facebook.com/Claregalway.info

Useful Local Contacts

Group Contact name Contact number

Carnmore National School John Reilly 091 798 718

Compántas Lir Drama Dermot Hession 085 711 4352

Conradh na Gaeilge Anna Glynn 091 798 351

Claregalway & District Day Care Centre Geraldine Carr 086 227 4139

Claregalway Cemetery Maintenance Malachy Noone 087 133 3711

Claregalway Cemetery Caretaker Seamus O’Connell 087 313 7282

Claregalway Educate Together Ns Terri Claffey 091 798 356

Claregalway Folk Choir Anne Moylan 087 638 6626

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April Crossword

Across1 Salty (5)4 Female milker (9)9 In a sweet manner (7)10 Longest river in China (7)11 Put (fears) to rest (5)13 Flood prevention embankment (5)15 Donkey (3)16 Measurement of time (3)17 A lure (5)19 Vast chasm (5)21 Regal (5)23 Garden tools (5)24 Gone by (3)25 Yelp (3)26 Doha is the capital (5)28 Mother of pearl (5)29 Scribblers (7)31 French chemist and bacteriologist (7)33 Systematize (9)34 Glasgow river (5)

Down1 Onlooker (9)2 Perfectly (7)3 At the present time (3)4 Wood nymph (5)5 Hedera Helix (3)6 Tugs (5)7 Computer of risks, probabilities etc. (7)8 Squirrels nests (5)12 Sing in a Swiss style (5)14 Eskimo canoe (5)18 Gemstone weight unit (approx 200mg) (5)19 Malicious burning (5)20 Atmospheric absence of smoke (9)22 Affluent young professionals (7)24 Mediaeval form of chemistry (7)25 Demonstrates boredom or tiredness (5)26 A line of people (5)27 Indian currency unit (5)30 Used for travelling on snow (3)32 Thus (Latin) (3)

Post completed Crosswords to:B.D. Place, Woodleigh, Creig Buí, Baile Chláir, Co na Gaillimhe.

1st correct Crossword opened winsa meal for 2 in the Arches Hotel, Cois Chláir, Claregalway.

Last month’s crossword winner was Coman McCormack, Claregalway

Name

Phone

Brian PlaceCrossword Editor

P1

I Z2

Z A3

W4

E D5

N E6

S D7

A Y8

O O I I O X Y E

S9

P O R R A N E10

S T O N I A

T L E R A R

P11

R O O F12

S13

A B14

R A S15

U N

O G U E T

N16

A Y N17

I G18

E R T19

H Y M E20

E G N Y I X

D21

U B22

A I O23

W L E T R24

O T

U M L A E

E25

A R W26

H E E L27

E28

A T E N

L G R I I S

V29

I L N I U S30

B31

U R32

U N D I

E A S I Y I G O

R33

U R I T A N I A B34

O S O N

Last month’s solution


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Nuacht Chláir April 2015