Morning Focus began with a look at the recent attack in Maynooth. It's fair to say that a vicious attack on a student at Maynooth University has caused shock waves. Kim Owens, a first year student was returning to her digs near the college when she was set upon. Gardai have renewed their appeal for witnesses to this brutal attack which left Kim with serious injuries. The incident has also prompted calls for all students to be mindful of their personal safety. Gavin was joined on the line by Annie Hoey, USI President.
Later this afternoon (Thurs. Nov. 24), a bill will come before the Dáil calling for Irish neutrality to be enshrined into the Constitution. The proposal's been put forward by Sinn Féin defence spokesperson, Aengus Ó Snodaigh who wants to ensure the state is prevented from declaring war or participating in any armed conflict without the agreement of the Dáil. Dáil agreement would also be required for the state to aid any foreign power in the preparation or conduct of an armed conflict. At this point, it appears the bill will fail as Fianna Fáil has said it won't support it and it's understood the government won't accept it. Fianna Fáil says the constitution already enshrines Ireland’s dedication to the peaceful resolution of international disputes while Fine Gael says military neutrality remains a core element of Irish foreign policy. Dep Aengus Ó Snodaigh, SF Spokesperson on Defence joined Gavin on the line.
There are calls to ensure that tourists visiting remote parts of Clare are encouraged to stick to the main roads, in the interests of safety. Cllr Gabriel Keating's asked that Sat Nav companies be contacted to urge them to direct visitors along the best roads in the county. He says tourists have been involved in a number of accidents around Kilimer and Doolin when travelling on back roads. Cllr Gabriel Keating, West Clare MD, CCC and Cillian Murphy from Loophead Tourism joined Gavin on the line.
The recent cold snap has sent us all scurrying for our winter woolies in the hope of warding off colds and 'flus. If you've already caught something – and particularly if you're suffering with a sore throat, our next item could help you. This year, Boots Chemists are offing a sore throat test and treat service. The scheme aims to raise awareness of the appropriate use of antibiotics. The service offers rapid detection and speedy, appropriate treatment for those suffering with a painful throat. It's offered is 73 Boots pharmacies nationwide. Susan O’Dwyer, Boots Pharmacist, joined Gavin on the line.
On yesterday's show, we hit on an issue that's really divided our listeners. George from Ennis was in touch to say that the 'sign of peace' at Mass should always be used, that it should – in effect – be compulsory. It's fair to say that many listeners disagreed – claiming the practice can be embarrassing and can spread germs. Those, like George, who're in favour of the sign of peace, say it's an opportunity to break the ice and connect with others. To discuss the religious significance of the practice and why some priests opt not to use it Gavin was joined by Fr Brendan Quinlivan, Communications Officer for the Diocese of Killaloe.
As listeners to this programme will know all to well, illegal dumping is a major problem in parts of this county. It's an issue we've looked at many times. Well, there could be good news in the offing as Clare County Council has made an investment in new mobile CCTV technology in a bid to catch the dumpers. The cameras will be located at unnamed dumping blackspots throughout the county, and are capable of capturing high-quality footage of dumpers recorded during the day and at night Patrick Mullane, Waste Enforcement Officer with the Council, is hopeful the initiative will be successful.
This Sunday, the legacy of former President Eamon De Valera will be commemorated in Ennis. Following 12noon Mass at Ennis Cathedral, a gathering will proceed to the De Valera statue at the courthouse where there'll be a wreath-laying ceremony and an address by Fianna Fáil leader, Michéal Martin. Gavin was joined on the line by Michael McTeigue, Clare PRO Fianna Fáil.
Now the nights are getting longer and Christmas is drawing near, some listeners will remember the tradition of tales around the fireside. Galway-based author and storyteller Rab Fulton is one of those who's keeping the custom alive. As well as storytelling and readings, Rab is currently working on a number of projects. He is preparing a storytelling community outreach project for NUI Galway, which involves third level students collaborating with primary school children to create new folk tales. He is also working with a parents group in Ballybane Library to create their own Christmas Fairy Tale. And, as if all of that wasn't enough, Rab is currently working on a new book, West of Ireland Folk Tales for Children, which will be published by The History Press Ireland next year. Rab Fulton, Author and Story teller, joined Gavin on the line.
Next up we had Cliodhna King, a young Cystic Fybrosis sufferer who is looking to give back to the charity that has helped her so much. In this aim she’s going to do a parachute jump to raise money for the charity, she joined Gavin on the line to tell us more.
The next guest believes rural Ireland has a vibrant future at the cutting edge of new technologies. While that may sound, to some, like a pipe dream, it's already a reality in isolated and remote part of Norway. And if it can be done there, there's optimism that we could do the same in rural Ireland. David Minton, Director of Northern and Western Regional Assembly joined Gavin on the line.
And to finish the show it seems like we’re not out of graduation season yet, this evening at 7 o’clock we have 90 graduates from further education receiving various awards at level 5 and 6 at Mary Immaculate Secondary School, Lisdoonvarna. To tell us more about it Gavin was joined by Marian O’Callaghan a teacher at the school.
