A shore thing

A CHOPPER and a boat are the prerequisites when purchasing in uber-exclusive Ballina/Killaloe. Not only is this area the conjunction of Clare and Tipperary, but it's also where money meets mortar - big time.

Huge houses, in one of the most beautiful lakeshore areas of Ireland, about sums up this spot on the Shannon, overlooking Lough Derg.

Despite negative commentary from the economic soothsayers, the roar of the Celtic tiger still echoes around Ballina/Killaloe, where the brasher properties proclaim their optimism.