The Clare Champion Clare news, sport, entertainment and local notes
NESTLED in the rolling hills between Inagh and Cloonanaha, Michael Callinan’s family farm is both productive and peaceful. “It was a different world, coming out here on a Friday,” said Occupational Therapist (OT), Kathríona Moloney. Along with Imelda Hogan from Ennis, Kathríona formed part of a group who visited the farm between February and May, experiencing the changing rhythm of the seasons and enjoying the benefits of social farming. Activities for the group included feeding cattle, growing vegetables, planting hanging baskets and the odd visit to see ‘Romeo’, the bull – depending on his mood. Imelda’s face lit up when she recalled her weekly visits. “I loved it,” she said. “It was a lot of fun.” Michael is one the first Clare farmers to open up his home and farm, so that people from all walks of life can access social and other supports. He has around 80 livestock, on a 50-acre suckler farm with another 20 acres rented out. …
Read More »