Notes for October
W/E 16/10/2022
Dromore Woods in October. The parish is fortunate to have such beautiful walks as are in Dromore and it’s environs. The visitor centre in the main car park is open Saturdays, Sundays and Bank holidays in October from 10am to 5pm. The centre is run by National Parks and Wildlife Service and features displays and information on the flora and fauna of the reserve. They will also be happy to answer any questions on the wildlife in the Reserve. Toonagh Hall and Sports Complex. The members of the current committee running Toonagh Hall and Sports complex have stepped down after four years in their positions. Over that time they have organised many activities in the complex, renting out the hall for school discos, dancing, training groups, birthday parties and hosting community and charity events. The complex now boasts an office, kitchen, bathroom and boardroom which is rented out to Dysart Toonagh Water Scheme, a project which was carried out by the local Rural Resource Group in conjunction with the DTGWS. Toonagh Handball Club, Toonagh School and various groups also use the hall and it’s facilities. A meeting will be held tomorrow, Friday evening, Oct. 14 at 8pm, when it is hoped a new committee will be formed, otherwise the facility will have to shut down, which will be a huge loss, not only to the community, but to the school which also has use of the premises. Fun Run. Scoil Mhuire would like to thank the community of Ruan for their wonderful support of the school’s Fun Run on Thursday, September 29. A fantastic evening was had by all and, thankfully, the weather was favourable. The school is indebted to James Sexton, and his wife Sally, who coordinated the event in conjunction with the school staff. The attendance of First Responders, Podge and Peter, Safety Stewards and the Parents Association who provided refreshments on the night is also hugely appreciated. Darragh Casey, Max Sheehan and Dara Masterson were placed first, second and third, respectively, in the men’s 6K run and Niamh McCoy, Katie Considine and Louise McNamara were similarly placed in the women’s event. After a few years where no school community gatherings were possible, it was great to see so many familiar faces, current pupils and their families, past pupils, friends and local members of the community gathered on the school grounds. The community spirit is certainly alive and strong in Ruan. Author Visits School. Scoil Mhuire was delighted to host a visit from best-selling Irish children’s author, Judi Curtin, at the school on Wednesday, September 28. Ms Curtin spoke with the children about her life, her writing and her books and this was followed by a long Questions and Answers session. Ms Curtin’s visit was thoroughly enjoyable, very informative and extremely inspiring to the children. This visit came about as a result of fourth class pupil, Molly O’Malley, being awarded the visit for her participation in Summer Stars Reading Challenge at the DeValera library in Ennis. Camogie News. On Saturday, Ruan u16’s took on Smith O’Briens in Ruan in the Championship semi-final. The Ruan girls came out on top after a superb performance from this energetic group of girls who now progress to the final. The u11’s played in the fourth round of that age group’s league in Ruan on Saturday against Kilkishen. Both teams put on a great display of Camogie and, more importantly, enjoyed the outing. The Club appreciates the support of Adrian and Cathy Howard of Auto Body Repairs who have sponsored Camogie sweaters for the u12 Camogie team. The Junior A ladies take on Scariff/Ogonelloe on Sunday at 4pm in Tulla, in the Shield Final. The Camogie Club has organised a Community Dinner Dance in Woodstock Hotel on Saturday, Nov. 12. Tickets may be bought from Tasha Hynes, Rebecca Crowe, Rebecca O’Donoghue and Gillian McNulty of Ruan Camogie Club.
|
W/E 10/10/22
Celebrating a Century. Agnes Lyons of Kilcurrish, Fountain recently celebrated her 100th Birthday in Carrigoran Nursing Home with her family, staff and fellow residents. Agnes received many cards and good wishes for her special day which her family appreciates. She also received a lovely letter from Michael D Higgins, Uachtarán na hÉireann. Agnes continues to enjoy good health and enjoys nothing more than the weekly sing song! Dysart Toonagh Group Water Scheme. At the recent National Federation of Group Water Schemes Rural Water Conference, held in Athlone, Dysart Toonagh Group Water scheme received an award for Water Safety Planning & Quality Assurance Implementation. DTGWS received this award in recognition of the standard of excellence they have achieved in this area. Adrian Smyth, Development Officer with the National Federation of Group Water Schemes presented the award to Matthew Rynne, Manager of DTGW Scheme. Times for Clothes Collection. As the community is aware, Toonagh N.S. is holding a clothes collection on Thursday 13th of October for all those clearing unwanted items from their homes. All clothing,bed clothes ( no pillows or duvets please), towels, shoes, bags, may be left in black bags to Toonagh Hall on Thursday October 13th at various times that day - 9 to 10am, 2 to 3pm and 6.30 to 7.30pm. Money raised from this collection will benefit Toonagh N.S. for essential resources and we thank you in advance for your support. Camogie. It was a busy weekend for the Camogie teams of the parish. On Saturday the Junior C team had a great win over Parteen, winning the C Shield. This was a great result, as this was the first time ever Ruan fielded a second Junior team. Clare Camogie Chairman, Joe ODonnell, presented the Shield to Captain, Claire McDonnell, now Claire Daly. When the team returned to Ruan they were treated to refreshments in Morty Kelly’s Bar. The under 13’s lost to Whitegate in Clarecastle in the shield semifinal, also played on Saturday and on Sunday the Junior A team was narrowly beaten by Truagh/Clonlara in Cratloe, by just two points. It was tough game, with the girls giving it their all right to the final whistle, however Truagh/Clonlara came out on top, now going on to play in the final. Recent Death. The death has occurred of James Barrow, Ballymacuiggan, Drumcliffe, father of Aidan Barrow, Fountain. Cross Country 2022. Graham O’Connor, Pippa Lordan, Katie Considine, Lila Feighery, Joan Casey, Cody Sheehan, Fiona O’Halloran, Sam McGibney and Tola O’Brien, all pupils in Scoil Muire, Ruan qualified as part of their teams in the cross country competitions held in Lee’s Road, Ennis. Max Sheehan came in second place in over 10 boys and Aaron Quirke took fourth in the under 10 boys. Great credit is due to the children, the organisers and supporters for their participation in the competitions. Award for Frankie. Ruan man, Frankie Lyons, was honoured by Clare County Council when he was presented with a ‘ Clare Older People’s Volunteer of the Year 2022’ Award at a function in Woodstock Hotel, Ennis. Frankie was accompanied by his wife, Rona and his family. He was nominated by Patricia O’Donnell, Ger Lyons and John Bell, who also attended the event, for his dedication and enthusiastic contribution to community life in the parish through his tireless, voluntary work for Ruan GAA Club.
|
W/E 24/10/2021
Semi-final Defeat. Ruan Intermediate team bowed out of the Championship on Sunday afternoon, in Sixmilebridge, following defeat to a strong Doora/Barefield side. Conditions were difficult for both teams on the pitch. After topping the group and beating Corofin in the quarter finals this was a step too far for this very young Ruan side. Great progress has been made this season by Ruan’s Intermediate hurlers and, with an average age of twenty-two the future looks bright for this committed group of lads and their mentors. Recent Death. The death has taken place of Mícheál Ó Sé, Ballygriffey House, Ballygriffey, Ruan and formerly of Tír, Brandon, Tralee, Co. Kerry, peacefully at his home. Mícheál came to live in this parish in 2005 when he and his wife, Marie, set up home in Ballygriffey with their children Muireann and Piaras. Barristers by profession, they poured their energy into creating a warm family home where respect for nature, love of the Irish language, music, sport and history and an appreciation and respect for other cultures in the world were fostered. He had a deep connection with the land. His love for his family always shone out as he spoke of them. Mícheál immersed himself in this community, becoming Chairman of the underage GAA Club in Ruan for a number of years. He was instrumental in bringing about the amalgamation of Ruan and Corofin, which has proved to be so successful. Micheal was widely acknowledged as a Barrister for his exceptionally sharp legal mind, his wise counsel, his humanity and his sense of humour, as well as his love of politics, history and sport. These qualities earned him great respect in his professional life. Mícheál’s cortège, as it arrived at St. Mary’s Church Ruan, was flanked by a Guard of Honour from the local GAA Club, staff and pupils from Toonagh National School, members of the Corofin/Ruan under 17 hurling team and members of Fianna Fail’ showing the esteem in which he was held. At the graveside, Dónal Ó hAiniféin, a fellow West Kerry man and a parishioner, sang a rendition of “Beir Mo Dhúthracht” a lament for Mícheál’s native place. Mícheál is survived by his wife Marie Slattery, daughter Muireann, son Piaras, sisters Máire, Cáit, Joanne, brothers Pádraig, Peter, Morgan , Brendan and Martin, parents in law, sisters in law, brothers in law, nieces, nephews, relatives, colleagues, neighbours and friends. Ceol na n-aingeal go gcloise sé agus leaba i measc na naomh go raibh aige. |
W/E 17/10/2021
Wedding Bells. The wedding took place on Friday last, in St. Mary’s Church, Ruan of Ruth Heagney and Enda McGuane, with Fr. Pat O’Neill, Celebrant. Ruth is a daughter of Frances and Gerry Heagney, Ruan and Enda is a son of Mary and Paddy McGuane, Kilnamona. Sinead and Meadhbh, Ruth’s sisters, and Ellen Hahessy were Bridesmaids. Enda’s Groomsmen were Padraig Talty, Martin Tierney and Eoin O’Neill. The reception was held in Cloughjordan House, Cloughjordan, Co. Tipperary. Race Champion. Imogen Cotter, from Ruan has cycled her way to becoming the Irish Womens Elite Road Champion at the Senior Women’s Road Race National Championships in Coolbeg, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow on Saturday Oct. 2, fighting off strong competition in her efforts.Imogen is based in Belgium with the Keukens Redant Cycling Team. She moved to Belgium in late 2018 in a bid to become a professional cyclist, having begun track cycling a year earlier, and she is delighted with the success in this race. Camogie. The Adult team had a win over Kilkishen/Bodyke in Ruan on Saturday. They now face Broadford in the final group game of the Junior A Championship. The u13 team lost to Kilkishen/Bodyke on Saturday in the Shield Final. The girls on this team have put in great work over the year, attending training diligently and enthusiastically, as have their coaches who have committed themselves to their progress. Hurling News. The u17B Corofin/Ruan team was beaten by Scariff/Ogonelloe in Ruan on Sunday morning. In the u13B Shield Final, Crusheen/Tubber came out on top over Corofin/Ruan on a Monday evening. There was a fine crowd at this game in which the boys played with great heart, but it wasn’t enough in the end, Crusheen/Tubber winning by three points. |
W/E 10/10/2021
First Holy Communions. Last weekend was a busy one for Fr. Pat and Fr. Damian who, between them, celebrated First Holy Communion ceremonies for the six schools in the Imeall Boirne Cluster. In this parish, the children from Toonagh School received the Sacrament in St. Tola’s Church, Dysart, they were Jack Casey, Emma Brohan, Ellie May Carroll, Orlaith Flanagan, Maria Hurley, Isobel O’Leary, Rachael Pegg, Sophia Tracey and Samantha Vaughan. They were accompanied by their teachers Mr. Eustace and Ms. Brosnan. Fiona Lyons added her musical talents to the ceremony. The visit of the ice cream van afterwards was greeted enthusiastically by the children. In Ruan, it was the turn of schoolchildren from Ruan School, Joan Casey, Grace Forde, Lila Feighery, Saoirse Lecathelinais, Saul McGibney, Caitlin Moloney, Tola O’Brien, Aideen O’Connor, Fionn O’Halloran, Orla O’Connor, Leah O’Loughlin, Molly O’Malley, Cian O’Toole and Odhran Ryan. Their teacher was Ms. Ni Chonghaile. Fiona Lyons sang, accompanied by Michael Hennessy. Recent Death. The death has taken place of Toonagh’s oldest resident, Michael Whelan, in U.H.L., after a short illness, theee months after his beloved wife, May. Michael was born in Toonagh on July 12, 1931 and spent all his life working the family farm. His late father, Bill, had spent some years in New York City and he had a car which the Whelan family learned to drive at an early age. Michael acquired the first tractor in Toonagh in 1951. He had a passion for the land, animals and nature and, in the ‘70’s he changed from dairy to dry stock farming. He grew vegetables and fields of corn, spending many a winters night in a barn crushing corn with the tractor. He was always seeking to improve the land, clearing crags, hills and rocks. He regularly attended the mart and he was known to have been a great judge of cattle and sheep. Michael was instrumental in setting up Muintir na Tire in Toonagh, and with a group of like minded people, they built Toonagh Hall, holding marquees to raise funds to provide the Community Centre that has proved such a valuable asset to the community, and in 1981 the family gave the site on which the sports complex is built. The Whelan family also gave the site for Toonagh School and, in later years, allowed the school to expand with new classrooms and a playing field. Michael and his wife, May, celebrated 60 years of marriage in June and, sadly, May died shortly afterwards. Michael’s requiem mass was celebrated in St. Tola’s Church, Dysart, following which he was laid to rest in Drumcliffe Cemetery. His grandchildren played a traditional tribute at his graveside. He is survived by his daughters Anne (Cooney), Marie (Neylon), sons Ger and Gus, sons in law, daughters in law, brother Des, grandchildren, relations and many friends. Camogie. The adult Camogie team played Inagh/Kilnamona on Saturday evening in Inagh, and after a tough game, it ended in a draw. They now play Kilkishen/Bodyke in Ruan next Sat. The u13’s played Newmarket on Fergus in the semi final on Sunday, however, Newmarket proved too strong and came out on top on the day. The Ruan girls are now through to the u13A Shield Final against Kilkishen/Bodyke on Saturday, time and venue to be decided. Ruan GAA. Ruan Intermediate team had a two point win over Corofin on Saturday in Sixmilebridge. It was a hard fought but deserved win for the Ruan team, bringing Ruan into the semifinal of the Championship in two weeks time. The u13B Corofin/Ruan team had a win over Smith O’Brien’s in Ruan last week and they now play Crusheen/The ubber in the Shield Final. The u17C team were beateN by Scariff/Ogonelloe at the weekend in Ogonelloe.
|
W/E 03/10/2021
Hurling. Ruan u17’s had a win over Broadford at the weekend. The u11’s played Kilmaley in six mini games and won four and the u9’s played two games in a blitz in Caherlohan - great activity for all ages over the weekend. Death of Former Hurler. Paddy Leahy, of Greenfields, Rosbrien, Limerick, formerly of Erinagh, who died recently, was a former member of Ruan Hurling Club and winner of five county championship medals with the Club. Paddy, with his brothers Sean and Mickey were valued members of the teams which played from the late 1940’s, through the 50’s and into the early 60’s. Pat also played with the Clare Minors in 1946 and 1947 and went on to win a championship with a Wexford team. Former teammates and Club members from Ruan joined in providing a Guard of Honour for Paddy at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes after which he was laid to rest in Crecora Cemetery. Paddy is survived by his wife, Ita, sons Aidan, Mark and Brian, daughter Jean, daughters in law, son in law, sisters Loretta and Madeline, grandchildren, extended family and many friends. Camogie. The adult Camogie team came through the first round of the Junior A championship on Saturday, with a win over Scariff/Ogonelloe. They now meet Inagh/Kilnamona in round two at the weekend. The u11 team played the second round of the league against Ballyea on Sunday, coming away with a win. Recent Deaths. The death has taken place of Bridie Byrnes, Lifford Road, Ennis formerly Bridie McMahon of Knockreagh, Dysart, sister of Sarah O’Halloran, Dysart. The death also occurred of John O’Loughlin, Martree, Maurices Mills, father of Margaret Mullins and John O’Loughlin of Ballycullinan. |
W/E 31/10/2020
Run for Multiple Scelerosis. Shane Punch, from Ruan, has been joined by four of his friends, in a fundraising venture to raise much needed money for Multiple Scelerosis (Clare branch). Shane, who is also a member of Ruan G.A.A. Club, and his teammates, Jack McDonagh, Ryan Power, Jason Power and Darragh McInerney are running 100km over ten days (socially distanced and within their 5k limit). Anyone wishing to donate, may do so by going online to Ruan GAA page and follow the instructions contained therein. Camogie. Ruan Camogie Club will hold its AGM on Wed. November 11, at 8pm, which will take place via Zoom. All members are invited to submit motions to the Club Secretary by emailing secretary.ruan.clare@camogie.ie for discussion at the meeting. Anyone who is interested in becoming involved in the Club Executive would be made very welcome to attend and submit any motions they may have. Recent Death. The death has taken place of Teresa Larkin of Dromore, Ruan, formerly of Tulla Hill, Loughrea. Her requiem mass was celebrated by Fr. Pat O’Neill in St.Mary’s Church. Teresa was described as a bubbly, friendly person, an avid reader, interested in the Arts and Drama. She is survived by her son, Raymond, daughter, Georgina, brothers Jimmy, Tommy, Mickey, P.J., Brendan, Danny and David, sisters, Bridie, Eileen and Josephine, niece’s, nephews and friends. Teresa was laid to rest in Garrybreeda Cemetery, Loughrea |
W/E 25/10/2020
Commemoration. The Ruan/Dysart History Group would like to thank all those who celebrated the 100th year of the ‘Taking of the Ruan Barracks’ on Sunday last. A plaque was unveiled and a wreath was laid to commemorate the event, as well as commemorating the work of the Cumann na mBan. Fr. O’Neill also blessed the site, to remember all those who lost their lives on both sides during the conflict. The History group is indebted to all those who participated and contributed information In bringing this event to fruition and it’s important that this piece of history is now marked by having the plaque in place. Camogie. Rebecca Crowe and Louise McDonnell, two players from Ruan Camogie Club, played their part in Clare’s win over Offaly in the first round of the Liberty Insurance All Ireland Championship, which was played at Fr. McNamara Park on Sat. last. They now go forward to the second round when they meet Wexford on Sunday. The under 8 girls were presented with medals last week, which ended their year. The girls were complimented on their attendance at training during the year. Despite this being a tough year for everyone, the girls high spirits and their parents and mentors dedication brought them together in a very special way and it is hoped this will continue into the future. Recent Death. The death has taken place, in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ennis of Michael McGuane, Moycullen, Dysart. Michael’s remains were laid to rest in Rath Cemetery, following requiem mass in Dysart Church.. He is survived by his brother, Joe, sisters Margaret, Kathleen, Eileen and Monica, sister in law, brother in law, extended family and friends. |
W/E 18/10/2020
100th Anniversary of the Ruan Barracks Raid. On Sunday, October 18th, the Ruan/Dysart History Group will be holding a commemorative ceremony at the site of the R.I.C. Barracks where a plaque has been erected to commemorate the taking of the barracks 100 years ago for the fight for Irish Independence. The raid was carried out by The Mid-Clare Brigade 1st Western Division 3rd Battalion. Included in this Battalion were volunteers from D Company Toonagh/Dysart (35 members) and B Company Ruan (53 members), as well as other companies from the other divisions. Joe Keane and Sean Custy will lay a commemorative wreath at the site. Joe Keane, whose father Frank participated in the raid, will represent the Mid-Clare Brigade. Sean Custy, whose father Tim was on the outer line of defence on the day of the raid, will represent the local volunteers. The work of the local Cumann na mBan, who had 26 volunteers in Ruan and 18 volunteers in Toonagh/Dysart, will also be remembered on the day. Fr. O’Neill will bless the site, to commemorate all those who lost their lives, on both sides, during the conflict. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, this will be a closed event. The plaque will be on display from Sunday outside the site of the Barracks. The Ruan/Dysart History Group appreciates all the help it received in gathering the information used in putting this commemoration together. Recent Deaths. The deaths have recently taken place of Alphonsus Tubridy, Mullagh Village, Ennis, brother of Lucy Leahy, Ballaghboy, Ruan and Nancy Hehir, Ard na Greine, Ennis, mother of Noreen Cummins, Erinagh. Ruan GAA Lotto. Ruan GAA had resumed its lotto draw and it had run for two weeks, however, due to the recent restrictions brought in by the upsurge in COVID 19 cases, the draws have been cancelled again. It will resume as soon as restrictions are lifted. |
W/E 11/10/2020
Camogie. Ruan bowed out of the u-18C Camogie championship, having reached the semi-final, with a spirited performance in a close and exciting match on Wednesday evening of last week, losing, on the narrowest of margins of one point, to Eire Og. The girls, their trainers and parents had put in great commitment over the season, to reach this point, and, although it was very disappointing to lose, they should take consolation in the fact that their games up to the semi final showed great improvement in skills, fitness and effort, which will stand to them in the future. The u-14 girls played Parteen on Saturday in Parteen, in the semi-final of the championship. The Parteen girls came out on top on the day, however, the Ruan girls have played some great games getting to this stage, and if they stay together, the future of Ruan Camogie looks very bright. Hurling. Ruan has two teams in u-12, one playing in the Gavin League and one playing in the Bennett League. The two teams were in action at the weekend, with matches against two Crusheen/Tubber teams. Ruan progressed to the next stage, having come out on top. Great credit is due to all involved in these competitions. Flu/Pneumonia Vaccine. The flu/pneumonia vaccines are now available in Corofin Medical Centre. Anyone wishing to avail of same may contact the surgery. Home visits can be arranged, if required. Clothes Collection. The recently held clothes collection organised by the Parents Association of Toonagh School brought in €960. The Association is giving €300 of this to Toonagh Hall Committee, for the use of the facilities by the schoolchildren, and the remainder goes towards school supplies. The support of all who gave bags and helped in any way is deeply appreciated. Cyril Lyons retires When Cyril Lyons arrived at Ruan School on Friday morning last, he was greeted by a Guard of Honour of his students holding hurleys, under which he walked to a huge outpouring of appreciation and gratitude from all involved in the school. Cyril was welcomed by Niamh Ni Chonghaile, who has been appointed Principal, in his place. Niamh outlines what Cyril meant to the school and the children and among the attributes the children cited were his fairness,kindness,trustworthiness, respect and ‘sportiness’. Cyril was presented with a cheque by Leah and Tola O’Brien on behalf of the schoolchildren and the wider school community of €1,700 to go towards the Jack and Jill Foundation, which is dear to Cyril’s heart. On behalf of Ruan Hurling Club, Frankie Lyons and John Bell also made a presentation to Cyril for his contribution to hurling, not only to his parish, but to the County, highlighting Cyril's participation in the team of 1995, which brought so much joy to the County. 5 girls from Cyril’s sixth class sang ‘The Foggy Dew’, one of his favourite songs and all the children then performed their own version of a tribute to Cyril, to the tune of ABBA’s ‘Thank you for the Memories’ which was very moving. The celebrations continued throughout the day in the various classrooms, culminating with a ‘drive-by’ of parents and well-wishers, which lasted almost 10 minutes, with cars bearing flags, bunting + hurleys, amid great cheering. The teachers, staff and children wished Cyril, his wife, Aileen and their family many happy years in the next chapter of their lives. |
1-10 of 47