Podcasts about west clare

After 18 years of waiting, there's finally a major breakthrough for Kilmihil. A planning notice has confirmed that Uisce Éireann is progressing plans for a new wastewater treatment plant in the West Clare village. It follows years of delays and uncertainty around the long-promised upgrade — a project first earmarked under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, with completion initially suggested for 2025, but later pushed back to the end of the decade. The issue has sparked political debate and local frustration, particularly after an EPA report identified Kilmihil as a priority area for upgrades. Now, however, there's cautious optimism. Retired businessman and Kilmihil resident Gerry Johnston has welcomed the development as a turning point for the village's future, while Rita McInerney, who has long campaigned on the issue, says the announcement is the result of sustained local pressure and persistence. Both joined Sally-Ann Barrett in studio to discuss what this latest step means for Kilmihil — and whether it finally puts the village on a firmer footing for growth and future generations. Image (c) Clare FM

Pat Flynn travels to stunning West Clare to meet one of Ireland's leading bronze portrait sculptors. Best known for his highly acclaimed life-size portraits, Seamus Connolly operates a bronze foundry on the Loop Head Peninsula. His sculptures include many greats from the world of sport, Irish and international politics as well as famous writers and actors.

New Airbnb regulations will prevent homeowners in towns with populations exceeding 20,000 from renting their properties on a short-term basis for more than 90 days per year.Enterprise Minister Peter Burke confirmed that Government leaders agreed to the change on Monday night, stating that the Coalition must remain “cognisant” of tourism-dependent towns with limited hotel capacity.With hotel prices continuing to rise and certain parts of Ireland struggling to attract visitors, is this policy the most effective way to boost tourism nationwide while also supporting the hotel sector?Joining Andrea was Lorna Cahill Liaison for people with Air Bnb's and owner of an Air BnB in West Clare, Eoin Doyle a hotelier, Lynnie O'Connell P - Hugh Morries, from Hugh Morris Alliance Auctioneers and Valuers and listeners to debate the upcoming measures.

A West Clare secondary school is to have its first ever special classroom. The Department of Education has this week announced 38 additional special classrooms for the 2026 to 2027 school year, bringing the total number of new classrooms of this nature next year to 301. Among those benefitting is St Joseph's Community College in Kilkee. Its principal, Agnes Hehir, says it'll allow local families to access the educational supports they need without leaving the area.

The Friends of Ennis Hospital campaign says its invitation to the Health Minister to visit West Clare remains on the table. The group made the offer to Jennifer Carroll MacNeill in December to highlight the difficulties faced by the region's population in accessing emergency care. The response issued by the minister's private secretary made no mention of the visit but said she will "continue to report back to the people of the midwest and their representatives on progress of the delivery of the additional capacity that is needed for the region". Friends of Ennis Hospital Public Relations Officer Deirdre Culligan says the group remains happy to facilitate the trip.

The school community at St Joseph's Spanish Point will welcome back its latest squad of Munster Ladies football champions this morning. The West Clare side bridged a gap of 29 years since their last Munster A title with a hard fought win over Loreto Clonmel in this year's decider. The squad and management will be paraded with the cup through St Joseph's this morning as they add their names to the rich history of ladies football in the school. Principal and team manager Paul Reidy says they worked incredibly hard to get over the line.

Clare County Council's being urged to sell it's land in a West Clare village for the local community to develop on. Plans to upgrade the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Kilmihil are currently at design stage and it's anticipated the project will be completed after 2030. Concern has emerged however, that the local authority may not be in a position to develop affordable housing schemes there after this time. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch believes it makes more sense to let locals take the lead.

It's claimed North and West Clare are being denied their fare share of funding for rural projects. Since 2020, the West Clare Municipal District, which encompasses both the Kilrush and Ennistymon Electoral Areas has received just below €12m in grants from the Department of Community and Rural Development. Concern has emerged however, that many key community initiatives are being overlooked such as public realm enhancements proposed for Corofin and Lisdoonvarna and works previously approved in Doolin. Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy says more progress is needed.

The long-neglected N67 and N68 roads in West Clare are back in the spotlight this week. June Dillon, Aontú's Clare representative, says responsibility for fixing these key routes lies firmly with Clare County Council — and that it's time for action, not excuses. On Friday's Morning Focus, Daragh Dolan spoke with June and Cyril Feeney, Senior Engineer, Transportation, Mobility , Health and Safety. Photo (c) Google Maps

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn chats with Elaine Haugh-Hayes, proprietor of Naughton's Restaurant and Naughton's Yard in the seaside town of Kilkee in West Clare. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

A planning application is expected to be submitted for the first section of the West Clare Railway Greenway this year. According to the Department of Transport, Clare County Council will seek permission to construct the Kilrush to Kilkee section of the route after June. The overall 115km route will also connect Ennis, Miltown Malbay, Lahinch and Ennistymon. Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that following many false dawns, progress is needed as soon as possible.

The housing crisis isn't an abstract problem for families in West Clare — it's a daily nightmare – that's according to one Kilmihill resident who I have been speaking with. Gerry Johnston says years of delays and broken promises around basic infrastructure have left over a hundred homes stuck on paper. From stalled wastewater upgrades to mounting frustration with political inaction, Gerry sees the crisis first-hand in his own community — and he's calling for urgent, practical solutions now, not in another decade. Alan Morrissey spoke with retired business man and Kilmihil resident, Gerry Johnston on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Kanchanachitkhamma via Canva

The Government is being urged to provide clarity on the potential consequences of delivering a national strategic gas reserve in West Clare. Cahiracon in Kildysart was selected as the location for the state's first ever back up gas supply last December. It's expected the development will create 300 to 400 jobs during construction as well as 40 to 50 each year when operational. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch, however, is concerned it could have negative implications for the Shannon Estuary, marine life and local residents.

An investigation is set to be carried out into a reported rodent infestation in West Clare. It follows concerns raised by constituents over a persistent presence of vermin at Place De Plouzane in Kilrush. Although the green space has been identified as an area for development under the Kilrush Town Centre First Plan, it has been consistently blighted by illegal dumping and encampments in recent times. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch says this cannot continue.

Farm succession is becoming one of the biggest challenges facing Irish farming. New figures from the latest IFAC Irish Farm Report show that two in five farmers don't have a formal successor, with an ageing farming population and concerns around viability and lifestyle putting real pressure on family farms. To unpack what this means in practice, Daragh Dolan was joined by Avril Collentine, solicitor and farming specialist and Andrew Naughton, a suckler farmer from West Clare and a Clare Macra member on Friday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Roman Biernacki from Pexels via Canva

The West Clare Cancer Centre 8K Run and Walk takes place on Sunday, the 25th of January in Kilkee, along a stunning route on the Wild Atlantic Way. All funds raised go directly towards supporting cancer patients and their families across West Clare. On Monday's Morning Focus, Daragh Dolan spoke with William McGrath, Chairman, Co-founder of the West Clare Cancer Centre to tell us more about the event and how people can get involved. Photo (c) West Clare Cancer Facebook

US President Donald Trump's son Eric is visiting Clare this week, Tuesday 20th Jan and Wednesday 21st Jan, as plans move forward for a major new ballroom development at the Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg. The proposed project, which is currently before Clare County Council, is being billed by the Trump Organisation as a significant economic boost for West Clare. Public submissions on the proposal close on the 2nd of February. To discuss what this visit means for Doonbeg and what locals hope will come from it, Alan Morrissey was joined by Doonbeg Fianna Fáil councillor Rita McInerney and local resident Willie Hanrahan. Photo (c) Pat Flynn

As the Irish Open is set to take place in The Trump Hotel in Doonbeg later this year, many people will flock to West Clare to see the sport in action.Donald Trump however has caused a lot of tension over recent years with many people strongly disagreeing with some of his actions.Can we put our personal feelings for Trump aside in the name of sport?Joining Andrea to discuss is Fionn Davenport, Journalist and presenter of the ‘Golf Weekly' podcast, Professional Golfer Damien McGrane and listeners.

A Kilrush-headquartered conservation group has expressed cautious optimism that the government will abide by an EU directive to provide a greater amount of protected marine habitats. It comes as Fair Seas, of which the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is a member, has appeared before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs to discuss delayed maritime protection laws. The Irish Government has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030 but at present, less than 10% are currently designated as protected. Marine Policy and Advocacy Officer with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Eva Lambert, says progression is urgently needed to prevent further sharp declines in marine life populations.

Joining Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus was Emmet Condon, organiser of A Sliver of Light, Homebeat's midwinter music and arts weekender, which returns to Hotel Doolin this January. Taking place from the 23rd to the 25th, the festival brings three days of cutting-edge contemporary live music, DJs and curated experiences to the West Clare coast, featuring Irish and international artists including Session Victim, Nick Höppner and Icelandic singer JFDR. Emmet spoke about the vision behind A Sliver of Light and what people can expect from its second edition. Photo (c) eventbrite.ie

Nuclear scientist Claire Gallery-Strong has been awarded an MBE by King Charles for her services to nuclear science. A founding member of Women in Nuclear, and a former student of St Michael's Community College in Kilmihil, Claire has spoken of her pride in her West Clare roots and the influence of her late father and brother in shaping her career. Alan Morrissey was joined by Claire on Monday's Morning Focus to find out more. Photo (c) GOV.UK

The steadfast support of locals is said to be responsible for a notable surge in Christmas spending in Kilrush. Traders across West Clare's capital have unanimously reported an upturn in fortunes this festive period. Nationwide, punters will spend over €3.9bn this December, as traders begin to wind down for Christmas Day. The average household spend is also expected to hit €1,600, which is a 14% rise on last year. Owner of Anchor Crafts in Kilrush Pauline Dunleavy says they're noticing a significant rise in business. One of the newest additions to the town is hailing the local support for the Christmas spending boost. Hannah O'Reilly, Owner of Clan Gift Store says the retail scene has been thriving this year. One longstanding trader in the town has pointed to variety and understanding local needs as factors helping to boost business this year. George Brew however from Brew's Hardware and Gifts believes the introduction of one hour parking would significantly improve economic activity in the town. One of Clare's longest serving retailers insists buying local will always be more beneficial to a customer than buying online. Seán Dunleavy who's been in retail over 50 years and is currently working in Patrick Bourke's Menswear says local people know what others want and more importantly what they dont.

Fr Gerry Kenny presents our Sunday Prayer and is assisted by pupils of Moyasta N.S. in West Clare who lead us in prayer on this 4th Sunday of Advent

Residents of a West Clare town are being offered financial incentives to stop smoking. The HSE Tobacco Free Ireland Programme has launched the Financial Incentives to Stop Smoking Programme pilot in Kilrush as well as in targeted areas of Limerick city. Through the scheme, eligible medical card holders over the age of 18 can earn up to €400 in gift vouchers across a 12-month period. Health Promotion and Improvement Officer in Health and Wellbeing at HSE Mid West, Niamh Keating, says smoking is a particular concern in Kilrush.

A West Clare woman is hoping to be a voice for under-represented communities in her region on a new forum focused on community safety issues. Kilmurry McMahon community nurse and West Clare Aontú representative June Dillon has been appointed by Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan to the Clare Local Community Safety Partnership. The LCSP, which has yet to convene, will act as a successor to the now-disbanded Joint Policing Committee and will facilitate discussions on local crime-related between between elected representatives, community members, Gardaí, the HSE and others. June has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons that many people in the west of the county don't know where to turn when crime strikes.

Clare County Council has refused planning permission for a second wind energy development in West Clare in two weeks. Plans for a wind turbine of 150 metres in height in the townlands of Slievenalicka, Illaunbaun, Drumbaun and Lackamore have been rejected by the local authority. It comes after the Swiss-owned Illaunbaun Wind Farm Limited failed to get approval for a project which would've seen five 492-foot turbines in Tooreen, Slievenalicka, Illaunbaun, Lackamore and Drumbaun constructed. Over 200 objections were made to each development, and Laura McMahon of the 'Miltown Locals Say No to Windfarm' group she was opposed to the projects for very personal reasons.

http://copperplatemailorder.com                                     Copperplate Time 522                                presented by Alan O'Leary                             www.copperplatemailorder.com                              1. Bothy Band:  Green Groves.   After Hours 2. Garadice: Gan Ainm/The Sunny Hills/Castleblaney Piper.  Garadice 3. John & Jacinta McEvoy:  The Secret Well/Whispering Water.  The Boyne Mist 4. Eleonor Shanley:  Motherland.  Garadice 5. Danny Meehan/Le Cheile:  Paddy the Cooper/Dublin Porter.  Out of the West6. Cillian Vallely & David Doocey:  Heights of Darga/Paddy Joe's.                The Yew & The Orchard 7. Kevin Crawford: Repeal of the Union/The Ivy Leaf/The Hut in the Bog.                Carrying the Tune8. Lar Gavin:  The Wicked Gander.  2 Miles from Tulla 9. Mick Sands & Clive Carroll:                  Lough Erne's Shore. The Ominous & Luminous 10. Bobby & Sean Casey:                Farewell to Miltown/The Star of Munster.  The Spirit of West Clare 11. PJ & Marcus Hernon:Redigan's Mother/Táim in Arrears/Hardiman.                Celebrating 50 Years 12. Mary McPartlan:  Wild Mountain Side.  Petticoat Loose13. Sorcha Costello: John Naughton's/Ryan's Rant. The Primrose Lass 14. Gerry Hanley:  The Old Road to Garry/Carmel'Mahoney Mulhaire.                   In The Middle of It 15. Roger Sherlock & Mary Conroy:                Queen of May/Anderson's Reel. Memories of Sligo 16. David Sheridan:  I Buried My Wife/O'Dea's/Ryan's.  Drivin' Leitrim Timber. 17. Ralph McTell: The Ferryman. Live in London 18. Terry Clarke:  The Coffin Road.  West Highland Blues 19. Johnny Cash:   Big River.   Compilation 20. Bothy Band:  Green Groves.   After Hours

There are calls for more bus shelters in West Clare. Alan Morrissey spoke with the Quilty Fianna Fáil councillor, Michael Shannon about calls for the erection of more bus shelters in the west of the county. A spokesperson for Clare County Council said: “West Clare Municipal District has recently met TFI Local Link and discussed the provision of additional bus stop shelters and bus stop poles in West Clare. The provision of a bus stop shelter could be accommodated by the Section 38 process, but as was evidenced by the discontinued low-cost safety scheme in Kilmihil last year, buy-in from residents is also important. In addition, please note that West Clare Municipal District and Clare County Council's Road Design Section are continuing to work with TFI Local Link on progressing locations for poles and shelters throughout the Kilrush Local Electoral Area. Further progress on agreeing a programme of works on this is expected early in 2026.” Image (c) Pixabay

Leonardo La Pietra is the founder of Leo at Home, a small artisan food business based in Doonbeg. This is where he prepares authentic Italian dishes to finish at home, bakes fresh bread and focaccia, and crafts a selection of traditional desserts. This year, Leonardo's work earned national recognition when he won Gold at Blas na hÉireann for his handcrafted panettone in the Christmas Cake category. He's also the first person to produce artisanal panettone in the west of Ireland, and one of only a handful making it entirely by hand nationwide. With panettone now one of the most beloved Christmas desserts around the world, Leonardo is proud to share this tradition with the community in West Clare. Leonardo joined Alan Morrissey on Friday's Morning Focus.

Dawn Bennett, a Kilrush-based hair salon proprietor, moved to the West of the county from Limerick several years to obtain a primary school place for her son Jamie, who is non-verbal and requires additional needs support in education. With Jamie set to start secondary school in the next two years, he faces the prospect of having to make the 43-kilometre journey to Ennis each day to attend the nearest secondary school that meets his requirements. Dawn, who says autistic children are ‘second class citizens', is urging parents in similar situations to voice their concerns to the National Council of Special Education. To discuss this further, Dawn joined Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus. Picture (c) Wokandapix from pixabay via Canva.com

June Dillon, Clare Aontu Representative and nurse, has called for a national testing programme for haemochromatosis in Ireland, stressing the importance of early detection and treatment. Haemochromatosis, also known as “iron overload disorder,” can cause serious health problems if left untreated, including liver damage, heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. However, early diagnosis through a simple blood test can prevent these complications and greatly improve quality of life. Ireland has one of the highest rates of haemochromatosis in the world. June has seen the impact of the condition first hand Alan Morrissey spoke with June on Friday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Irish Central

The days of teams getting changed in "buses and corners" at a West Clare sports ground are expected to come to a close soon with a new development coming on stream. Kilmihil People's Park has secured planning application for the provision of dressing rooms and public toilets at the amenity which opened its gates in 2021. The project is supported by an almost €70,000 Sports Capital Grant awarded last October. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon, who was a representative on the planning application, has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the park demonstrates the merit of funding community endeavours. Photo (c) Kilmihil People's Park via Facebook

The West Clare Cancer Centre has honoured long-time supporter Matt Keating, presenting him with a special appreciation award for his many years of dedicated fundraising. The gesture, made by Mary McGrath and the team, recognises the vital role Matt has played in helping the centre continue its outstanding work supporting people in West Clare affected by cancer. Alan Morrissey spoke with Matt on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) West Clare Cancer Facebook

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer for today the 7th December 2025, the Second Sunday of Advent. Fr Gerry is joined by Students and muscians from St Joseph's Community College in West Clare.

The Friends of Regina House, Kilrush, have received approximately (according to Regina House) €47,000 in donations thanks to the tireless fundraising of Paddy Kelly and his fellow cyclists. Regina House provides essential, compassionate care for older people in West Clare, and community support like this plays a vital role in sustaining its services and comfort for residents. Paddy, who is no stranger to lengthy, major cycles – having cycled through England last year – cycled from Mizen Head to Malin Head during late August, all with the aim of raising vital funds for the invaluable work carried out by Regina House. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Paddy Kelly and John Bonfil, Member of the Friends of Regina House Committee. Photo (c) iDonate

A date for the full transfer of governance of a West Clare nursing home to the HSE has been set. At the most recent meeting of the Regional Health Forum West, HSE Midwest has confirmed the target completion date of the transfer of business legal agreement for St Senan's Nursing Home in Kilrush is May 2026. The centre, which currently cares for 20 residents, has been subject to significant capital upgrades as part of a €2 million investment from the HSE in January 2024. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney says it's crucial to get one of the cornerstones of West Clare back to full operating capacity.

The latest Transport Sectoral Implementation Report under the National Development Plan (NDP) has been published, but there's next to nothing of Clare interest in it. The report outlines the national road projects expected to advance before 2030. While several counties across Ireland have multiple strategic schemes progressing, Clare is almost entirely absent. West Clare does not feature at all, nor the works required in Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus, to alleviate flooding, or the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station. Is Clare being sidelined or ignored? Alan Morrissey was joined by Newmarket on Fergus Fianna Fáil Councillor, David Griffin and Crusheen Resident, Michael O'Doherty for their views on this. Photo of Ballycar Flooding (c) File Photo

It's hoped the development of new infrastructure in West Clare will encourage people with reduced mobility to swim. It follows a grant of €25,000 in funding, which will provide four sea shelters across Kilkee and Spanish Point. The funds will also provide for non-slip matting and accessible hand rails to enter and exit the water. Founder of Snamhaí Sásta June Curtin believes it will be hugely beneficial.

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn chats with Sharon Barrington, General Manager of IFF Plastics based near Cree in West Clare. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

Residents of a West Clare community say they live in fear on a daily basis due to a treacherous stretch of road. Transport Infrastructure Ireland has been requested to carry out a speed limit review and erect warning signage on the N68 between Darragh and McNamee's Cross following a spate of recent road traffic collisions. Since 2007, four people have been killed along the route, with a further eleven hospitalised. Local resident Colette Gavin, who previously lost a loved one on the road says action is urgently needed.

Residents of a West Clare community say they continue to live in fear on a daily basis due to a treacherous stretch of road. It comes as Transport Infrastructure Ireland has been requested to carry out a speed limit review and erect warning signage on the N68 between Darragh and McNamee's Cross following a spate of road traffic collisions. Since 2007, four people have been killed along the route, with a further eleven hospitalised. Local Resident Collette Gavin who previously lost a loved one on the road has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that action is urgently needed. We also hear from June Dillon, Clare's Aontú rep who has been raising her own concerns following the incident involving a truck last week. Photo (c) Google Maps

Over €100,000 in Government funding has been granted for a popular natural tourist attraction in West Clare. As part of €16.5 million announcement for 63 outdoor recreation projects nationwide, the Bridges of Ross Walking Trail Extension has been allocated a total of €108,000. The funding will allow for the elongation of the route thus providing a looped walking option. Kilrush Fine Gael Councillor Gabriel Keating says it's a uniquely peaceful place to visit.

IBÍLÈ will be hosting its first West Clare pop-up tasting experience this weekend. IBÍLÈ is a contemporary pop-up dining restaurant dedicated to showcasing the vibrant flavours of West African cuisine. They will have a tasting menu at Pot Duggans in Ennistymon on the 7th & 8th of November. The menu is inspired by Nigerian roots, paired with music, storytelling, and cocktails crafted African wine pairings with Irish spirits. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with the founder of IBÍLÈ, Tolu Asemento. Photo (c) via Pot Duggans Facebook

The One Act Drama Festival is coming to Doonbeg this weekend. The event, part of the West Clare Drama Festival, will take place from Saturday to Monday, the 8th to the 10th of November. Nine different plays will be performed over three nights. For more on this, Chairperson of the West Clare Drama Festival, Andrew Killeen joined Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (C) West Clare Drama Festival Doonbeg Facebook

An event highlighting the decline of the Irish language in West Clare will be held later this week. Dr. Síle Ní Choincheannain from Mary Immaculate College will deliver the lecture at Bhí Gaeilge ag do Granny! From Irish to English: Language Decline in West Clare. It will be held at An Teach Ceoil, Kilrush this Thursday, November 6th at 8pm. Photo (c) Mary Immaculate College

A popular bus route connecting West Clare and the county town will be altered for the next two months. Due to ongoing works being carried out by Uisce Éireann, Local Link's C12 Ennis to Miltown Malbay route will be unable to service Coore Church until December 19th. Passengers will instead have to board at either the Hand Hill or the Crosses of Annagh. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon says while there will be some disruption, the works will be worthwhile.

On this week's Atlantic Tales Pat Flynn chats with Kevin Keane, who originally trained as a lawyer but gave it all up to pursue his passion. After taking beginners course, Kevin Keane became instantly obsessed with pottery. He spent a time travelling, before relocating from Dublin to West Clare, where his business Potadóir was born! Kevin and his partner Dzana will soon open their new pottery studio and school as well as a yoga studio in Ennis.

An important update has been issued to West Clare residents casting their ballots in the Presidential Election tomorrow. Due to ongoing renovation works at Querrin Schoolhouse, anyone with the school on their polling card will instead vote at Carrigaholt National School. Those whose polling station was Knockanean National School prior to its demolition will go to Fahy Hall in Roslevan tomorrow, while voters in Tubber are being reminded to mark their ballot paper in the new national school building located beside the church. Clare County Registrar and Returning Officer Rita Considine says the location on every polling card is accurate with the exception of those whose card directs them to Querrin National School.

The Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District believes an outer relief road will be needed in Ennistymon within the next decade. It comes as the High Court has dismissed an application for leave to bring a judicial review challenge against the Compulsory Purchase Order for an inner relief road in the North Clare town. The project has been in the works since 2010 and is intended to alleviate long-standing traffic congestion at Blake's Corner. Fine Gael Councillor Bill Slattery previously lobbied for an outer relief road to be constructed and he believes it could still be required.

Hundreds of local residents have signed a petition calling for urgent safety upgrades on the main road linking Ennis to West Clare. It follows a serious road traffic collision which occurred just outside McNamee's Londis on the N68 last Friday, which left one person hospitalised. Since 2007, four people have been killed in road traffic incidents along the 2km route between Darragh's North Cross and Bansha Cross. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan visited McNamee's Londis and spoke to a number of local residents. Photo (c) Clare FM