I'm back home and want to say a few things first and follow up later with some more specific comments.
The rough at Lahinch has gotten too penal. Balls were lost that were a few yards off of the fairway. The usual variability of the rough one sees on links courses was not available here. And the rest of the courses had brownded out fairways already so I couldn't figure why Lahinch was so different . What gives?
Both Portsalon and Narin/Portnoo were worth the trip. I can't think of a better #1 and #2 holes anywhere than at Portsalon. Also, there was a redanish par three on the back that was superb. I found the persistence of "bowled" fairways to be a bit much . I wonder if Rees Jones was inspired by them. I admit to "variety" as my main bias.
This was the most stunning trip of my six to Ireland from the perspective of beautiful views; while on the courses and on the drives between them.
Narin/Portnoo was my favorite new course. #10 is a world class hole, even though two of us couldn't find our balls after hitting them directly over the white stake!!. The land in the landing area was cool and the broken ground short of the green reminded me of #16 at Merion. The green was huge with several places for interesting pin postions. I was reminded at times on other holes of Ballybunion, Royal County Down, Portstewart, Waterville, and even Sandwich ( I have only seen it on TV, but the comments are about the rolly polly fairways. #17 at N/P had this look.). I couldn't tell you which holes Pat Ruddy worked on and that is my vest compliment for him.
Cruit Island was a goofy course , but a fun one time experience to see the oft photographed par three; too many blind ANGLED plays off the tee or up to the green.
I still think there is something wrong with Carne and the new holes at Enniscrone. I get the feeling that someone is trying to maniputate me.