Regional

Ennis has become only the third place in Ireland to introduce a new cashless method of paying for parking. Ennis Town Council have this week launched the ParkMagic system, enabling customers displaying a ParkMagic barcode window sticker in the windscreen of their cars to make parking payments via text message or phonecall.   Traffic wardens use electronic handheld devices to scan the barcode or input vehicle registrations to verify payment status. The system also includes a text messaging option for customers to be notified that their payment is due to expire. The system is already in operation in Limerick City and Cork City. Meanwhile, Ennis Town Council has also announced the introduction of free parking in the town from 5pm each day up to end of December. It is anticipated that the scheme will encourage local businesses to extend their opening hours during the full summer season and encourage greater numbers of people into the town. The initiative comes following …

GALWAY East has been left without a Labour Party representative at Government level, following last week’s resignation from the party of former Labour Deputy and party chair, Colm Keaveney. The deputy will continue to serve in the Dáil as an independent TD for the Galway East constituency.

AFTER scuppering the anticipated election of Patricia McCarthy as Mayor of Shannon last week, Councillor Michael Fleming was unrepentant when he spoke to The Clare Champion on Monday.

The inclusion of Killaloe and Ballina on a national Brian Ború trail will put the twin communities firmly on the map for Irish visitors and tourists.

Seaplanes will be taking to the skies in Mountshannon from Wednesday next as Harbour Flights Ireland Ltd are all clear for take-off.

THE architect behind Limerick’s Milk Market has highlighted Lysaght’s Lane, at Lower Market Street Car Park, as the preferred location for a new Ennis’ Farmer’s Market as part a proposed revamp of the county capital’s market areas.

YOUNG scientists from a North Clare school have done it again after scooping four major prizes in a national competition.

THE 41st Scoil Samhradh Willie Clancy will bring the cream of traditional musicians and followers to Miltown Malbay from this Saturday to Sunday, July 14.