West Clare proposed for Olympics training

SHANNON Development has lent its support to the possibility that Kilrush Marina might be used by Olympians in preparation for the 2012 Olympics in London.
At this week’s Kilrush Electoral Area meeting, Councillor Gabriel Keating proposed that Clare County Council request the Olympic Council of Ireland to consider using Kilrush Marina as a training centre for the Olympic Games in London. The motion was passed.
“I would like to take advantage of the Olympic Games and to ask Clare County Council to consider marketing the marina,” Councillor Keating said.
He added that he had sought and obtained support from Shannon Development for the idea. “I think this is a great opportunity for West Clare tourism,” he stressed.
The meeting heard suggestions that Olympians could prepare for kayaking, surfing, fishing and golfing events in Kilrush and West Clare.
Councillor PJ Kelly suggested that as well as looking to host Olympians, the capital town in West Clare should also start scouring birth certificates of well-known non-Irish people.
“It would be wonderful for Kilrush if we found a birth certificate of a very important persona abroad,” he said, on the day that Barack Obama visited Moneygall.
In reply to Councillor Keating’s motion, Ger Dollard, Clare County Council, said the council would endeavour to promote the use of all facilities in Clare, including Kilrush Marina, with the Olympic Council of Ireland.
“Clare County Council will forward the motion to Shannon Development and Kilrush Creek Marina Ltd for further consideration and with a view towards ensuring that the facilities are available and can provide the support required as a training centre for the upcoming Olympic Games in London,” Mr Dollard stated.