On Friday the 23rd of February, the highlight of Morning Focus was most definitely the Friday Panel. This week Gavin was joined by three wonderful panelists – Martin McMahon, Sharon Cahir and Brian Meaney and they discuss both controversial and humorous topics.
At 9 am, Gavin welcomed Senator Martin Conway onto the show. Together they discussed the new asylum centre in Lisdoonvarna.
Following that, Gavin spoke about the reactions to stories from Morning Focus listeners Pat and Harriet who told of the struggles of those with disabilities. He was joined by Independent Senator John Dolan.
Then, James Ring, CEO of Limerick Chamber spoke with Gavin about concerns surrounding the Ireland 2040 plan and the impact it may have on regional areas.
At 10 am, Clare FM’S Pat Flynn reported on the arrival of hurricane hunters to Shannon Airport for the second time. He also chatted with some of the crew members.
Listen back below:
Next, Gavin spoke with Irene Burden of the Miltown Malbay Melting Pot about their welcoming of Knockalisheen asylum seekers for a West Clare holiday.
Listen back below:
After that, Gavin chatted with Siobhan Mulcahy, Clare County Arts Officer about the upcoming art events in the region.
To finish up the second hour, Kevin Giltinan from the Mullagh Entire Drama Group, told Gavin all about their latest work ‘Caught on the Hop’. It will be staged tomorrow, the 24th of February and again in March, at the local hall.
At 11 am, Gavin hosted the Friday Panel. This week he was joined by Martin McMahon, Clare Chair of ICMSA, Sharon Cahir of Cahir & Co Solicitors in Ennis, and Brian Meaney, former Green Party member of Clare County Council.
They discussed, the new asylum centre in Lisdoonvarna, the society and/or economy that we live in, whether or not Michael D. Higgins should receive a second presidential term unopposed, the treatment of smokers in Ireland, and Daniel and Majella’s ‘Room to Improve’ – Why are we so fascinated by other people’s homes?
Listen back below:
Then, the show returned to Lisdoonvarna. This time Gavin spoke to Eugene Banks, Principal Officer with the Reception and Integration Agency at the Department of Justice, following a briefing meeting in the town on the proposed new asylum seeker centre.
Then, Gavin chatted with Willie McGrath about the 20th annual West Clare Cancer Centre mini marathon. The marathon will start in Doonbeg and it also takes place this Sunday (25th February 2018). For more information you can contact 065 9060 762.
He also mentioned the Michael Egan Memorial run that is taking place in Quilty this Sunday (25th February 2018). For more information you can visit wwww.runthebanner.ie
