Brexit is, once more, the dominant theme of the week and on today’s show we began by discussing a crucial vote with Bernard Purcell, editor of the Irish World newspaper in London. MPs were due to have their say on the country’s Brexit deal, negotiated by Prime Minister Theresa May, but later in the show it was announced that the vote was being postponed. Live radio!
Brexit, and its impact on Ireland, was also up for discussion with Senator Martin Conway (Fine Gael) who also gave his take on the passage through the Seanad of the legislation to allow for abortions in Ireland.
Afterwards, Barefield Councillor Ann Norton joined us in studio to brief us on plans for a significant redevelopment at Ballyalla Lake on the outskirts of Ennis:
Tommy Corbett of Carey Corbett Financial Solutions in Roslevan, Ennis joined us for his final financial advice slot of 2018. He talked about Christmas presents, and ensuring they’re insured, as well as other seasonal advice:
Gavin was then joined by John Simms, science teacher at Mary Immaculate Secondary School in Lisdoonvarna, to discuss an unpublished report that had been highlighted in newspapers this week that stated there isn’t enough money to fund the introduction of practical examinations for science subjects at Leaving Cert level:
Arthur Byrne of the ESB gave advice on staying safe with electricity when so many of us have hung up additional lights, both inside and outside our homes, while Frankie Coote joined us for our weekly slot also.
In the final hour of the show, Clare FM’s Melissa McMahon reported on the unveiling of the Blath na hÍnse sculpture in Ennis on Monday, and Councillor Mary Howard – in a recorded interview with Clare FM’s James Mulhall – highlighted issues faced by returning emigrants from the US and elsewhere if they’re looking to get to drive on Irish roads.
Then, Gavin was joined by Mary Fitzgerald, the founder of Clare Haven and Haven Horizon. Both groups look to tackle domestic violence, by assisting victims and looking to tackle the root causes of the problem. Mary was honoured this past weekend as the Christine Buckley Volunteer of the Year at Volunteer Ireland’s annual awards – Enniswoman Laura Brennan, who has advocated for the HPV vaccine since her terminal cancer diagnosis, was also honoured. You can hear Mary’s interview below:
Finally, we finished the show today by hearing from Saidbh O’Neill of Friends of the Irish Environment who reacted to an international studio which found Ireland the worst country in the EU when it comes to tackling climate change.
Remember, Morning Focus airs live on Clare FM Monday-Friday 9-12, and you can contact the show any time at [email protected]
