Clare trad music scene in mourning

The traditional Irish music scene is in mourning following the passing of three well-known Clare musicians in as many weeks.

Ollie Conway was a noted set dancer, singer and storyteller from Mullagh, where he ran Conway’s pub. According to clarelibrary.blogspot.com, the pub was an established spot for musicians and dancers for many years, and was famous for its sessions during the Willie Clancy Week. Read tributes to the late Ollie Conway here.

Michael Mahony from Miltown Malbay also died last week. Michael was a renowned singer and flute player and he led the weekly singing session in Clearys (The Blond’s) in Miltown Malbay for fifty years. He was also a founder member of the West Clare Resource Centre. Listen to Michael Mahony sing 'Hills of Clare' here.

Michael Patsy Flanagan, from Barrtra, Lahinch, was also buried last week. Michael Patsy was the drummer with the Tulla Céilí Band for more than fifty years. He was photographed working on his farm by Dorothea Lange in 1954 as she travelled through County Clare

Ar dheiste go raibh said.

Clare trad music scene in mourning

The traditional Irish music scene is in mourning following the passing of three well-known Clare musicians in as many weeks.

Ollie Conway was a noted set dancer, singer and storyteller from Mullagh, where he ran Conway’s pub. According to clarelibrary.blogspot.com, the pub was an established spot for musicians and dancers for many years, and was famous for its sessions during the Willie Clancy Week. Read tributes to the late Ollie Conway here.

Michael Mahony from Miltown Malbay also died last week. Michael was a renowned singer and flute player and he led the weekly singing session in Clearys (The Blond’s) in Miltown Malbay for fifty years. He was also a founder member of the West Clare Resource Centre. Listen to Michael Mahony sing 'Hills of Clare' here.

Michael Patsy Flanagan, from Barrtra, Lahinch, was also buried last week. Michael Patsy was the drummer with the Tulla Céilí Band for more than fifty years. He was photographed working on his farm by Dorothea Lange in 1954 as she travelled through County Clare

Ar dheiste go raibh said.

North Clare teachers express opposition to cuts

Teachers in North Clare are demanding the Irish National Teacher's Organisation (INTO) take all necessary steps including industrial action to force the government to keep its commitment to reduce class sizes.

The plea is one of 13 motions set to be debated at the National Teachers Annual Congress taking place in Letterkenny this week. INTO members in North Clare have condemned the government for failing to implement agreed reduction in class sizes and staff schedules, according to Clare FM News.

More than 800 INTO delegates will discuss the problems at their annual conference this week.