A PACKED Cooraclare Hall witnessed renowned historian and author, Eoin Shanahan, formally launch the booklet on the War of Independence in West Clare last week.

Mr Shanahan described the booklet as a lasting tribute to the men and women who had made a significant contribution to sovereign independence.

He praised the members of the area committees who had organised commemoration events in 2021 and had contributed articles to the booklet.

The launch had a very poignant moment when two young boys, Rory Shanahan, great grandnephew of activist Willie Shanahan, and Conor Larkin, grandson of JT Larkin, lit the commemoration candle to the memory of all volunteers from every townland and district in west Clare.

A minute’s silence was observed and this was followed by a moving rendition of ‘Mise Éire’ by Conor and Gráinne Fennell.

A well-deserved standing ovation was accorded to the commemoration chairman, JT Larkin, for overseeing 16 separate commemoration events across west Clare.

Mr Larkin said that it was right and proper to recognise and honour the great personal sacrifices of west Clare men and women who had lived and died for their ideals.

He hoped that future generations would always remember those who fought for our national freedom.

Over 1,000 copies of the commemoration booklet have been distributed to all national schools and libraries in west Clare.

Mr Larkin thanked his committee comprising Tom Prendeville, Aideen O’Mahoney and Michael O’Connell. He expressed gratitude to Clare County Library for supporting the publication.

He had special commendations for the Clare Champion and Clare FM for generously publicising the entire commemoration programme over the past two years.

Síle Concannon suitably replied on behalf of the local area representatives. Gráinne and Conor Fennell concluded the launch with a rousing rendition of Amhrán na bhFiann.