Tag Archives: Raheen

A UNIQUE post-primary educational initiative has come of age this month, as it celebrates 21 years of supporting children and teens at a leafy campus in East Clare. ALFA (Alternative Learning for Adolescents) has been operating in Raheen, Tuamgraney, since 2001, providing full-time, progressive education for 12 to 16 year-olds. Based on the Steiner-Waldorf philosophy of education, it is one of the few settings  that provides an alternative to the mainstream Junior Cycle. “In the 21 years ALFA has had many different stages: from its pioneering start in a small mountain cabin without water or electricity to our own site with two (soon to be three!) classrooms and an amazing geodesic dome; from a small single group to our current enrolment of 40+ students and the possibility of a five year secondary programme,” a spokesperson said. “It’s been quite the journey.” Currently, there are two Steiner primary schools in Clare – one is Raheen Wood, right beside the ALFA facility, the other is Mol …

SYMPATHY has been extended to the family of the late William McLysaght, of Raheen, Tuamgraney, by members of the Killaloe Municipal District. When councillors gathered in Scariff for their May meeting, a motion of sympathy was proposed by Councillor Pat Hayes, who noted the hugely positive impact Mr McLysaght had had on the local area.  “William’s contribution was immense around East Clare,” Councillor Hayes said. “He played a central role in supporting Raheen Community Hospital. He had a central role going back the years to his father and grandfather who gave great employment in the area.” Cathaoirleach Councillor Joe Cooney seconded the motion. “William was a simply fantastic man for the entire East Clare area,” he said. “He was involved in a lot of different committees and we extend our sympathies to William’s wife Anna and their family. William’s family gave a lot of employment to a lot of people and did great work.” Councillor Tony O’Brien described Mr McLysaght …

CLARE Sláinte An Chláir has confirmed it is still providing a lot of services for local cancer patients, despite restrictions imposed during Covid-19 restrictions. One of the centre’s counsellors, Bridget Haren is provides meditation and mindfulness on Tuesdays and Thursdays on line using Zoom to 18 recipients. Using a Whatsapp group, another counsellor provides a similar service to people who may not have access to internet or proper broadband. In addition, cancer patients can also receive one-on-one counselling by telephone. Oncology nurse, Anne Murphy from Tulla contacts people via telephone who require information or advice, which is proving to be very beneficial. The centre’s physiotherapist provides online exercise classes to 12 people on Wednesdays, after the first class was provided last week. Marie Kelly, who runs the outreach service in Raheen, oversees a Whatsapp counselling and meditation group. The charity was forced to close its popular drop-in service at its main centre in Kilnamona on March 5 following the introduction of …