News

LIMERICK Regeneration Agencies have described An Bord Pleanála’s decision to grant permission for the Coonagh-Knockalisheen Distributor Road as “one of the most significant and strategic developments to date for the regeneration project on the city’s north-side”.

AN “alarming” upsurge in criminal activity in the East Clare area has been attributed to one gang, described by gardaí as “very serious criminals” who are “very organised” and are not afraid “to take on the gardaí”.

MEMBERS of Ennis Town Council have hit out at recent reports of high levels of absenteeism at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Ennis, with councillors stating the figures quoted don’t represent the full story. According to reports, Ennis hospital’s absenteeism levels are 9.43%.

THE Government intends to initiate a process of dialogue and engagement with trade unions and employers, Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Eamon Gilmore announced in Ennis on Wednesday.Addressing delegates at the SIPTU Biennial Delegate Conference in the West County Hotel, the Tánaiste outlined that starting in November, the Government will invite lead social partner organisations to bilateral meetings involving senior Government ministers, the Taoiseach and other ministers. It is intended that these meetings will take place on a periodic basis, focusing on matters of current concern.Speaking at the conference, he outlined, “We are not likely to return soon to the social partnership structures that existed in the past. But there are real benefits for a country like Ireland from effective social dialogue, in terms of greater certainty for investors, maintaining industrial peace and strengthening social solidarity.”He went on, “We must learn from the past failures of social partnership, including the need to respect the role of Government and the …

ASKING prices for homes in Clare are down more than 41% since the height of the boom but one local estate agent believes the prices achieved are down by up to 70% in some sections of the market.

A FEASIBILITY study will not be carried out by Clare County Council, relating to the possible development of the Bridges of Ross, Kilbaha as a major tourist attraction. The proposal was mooted by Councillor Gabriel Keating at last week’s Kilrush Electoral Area meeting in Mullagh.

A SPORTING stadium of national importance is examining the potential of using a Clare invention to conserve water, while another local company is set to roll out their latest technology in the UK next month.

PLANS are now firmly underway to develop the Sisters of Mercy Convent and primary school buildings in Tulla into a cultural centre with particular emphasis on the cultural traditions of Clare.