Today’s Morning Focus featured Shannon Swimmer Chris Bryan who is playing a waiting game to see if he has booked a place in this summer’s Olympic Games in London. Based at Swim Ireland’s High Performance Unit at the University of Limerick – Chris will have to wait until next week to find out if he can compete in this year’s Games. The Clare man narrowly missed out on qualification on Sunday when he tied with a Hungarian swimmer at the final qualifier in Portugal. However he was then classified as just outside of the qualification and therefore missed out on the final European spot. But it’s hoped he may be able to gain a place in the Olympic Games if another country such as New Zealand decide a full team. Chris talked about his strenuous training regime and his hopes and aspirations as an athlete. Chris’ mother Jackie was also in studio, she spoke about how stressful it is to wait for the verdict of his qualification.
Also on today’s show Tony Mulqueen, a Fine Gael Ennis West Councillor joined John Cooke in studio. Cllr. Mulqueen is calling for Clare County Council to request “that RTE – the National Broadcaster, play the National Anthem each night before 12 midnight in the spirit of Irish Pride and Nationhood”. While Clare FM’s Cliona Willmott took to the streets to ask locals about their pride in the national anthem and whether they actually know the words?
Fine Gael Senator and Shannon Businessman Tony Mulcahy also joined the show to discuss the ongoing controversy surrounding Independent TD Mick Wallace and his VAT bill. As a businessman Senator Mulcahy says many would like to under declare VAT but have to abide by the law. As a Politician – he thinks Mick Wallace’s position is untenable.
Máiread Doyle of Michael Houlihan & Partners Solicitors was in studio for our weekly Free Legal Advice feature
Today’s topic focussed on the Small Claims Court. Mairead outlined its role and function. She also explained how people can take a case to the Small Claims Court and the procedures involved.
Fr Gerry Carey, Parish Priest of Doora Barefield spoke to John Cooke about how he led a group of youths from across the Diocese of Killaloe to the Eucharistic Congress in Dublin last evening. He explained how the major international gathering is going, about youth involvement locally and within the Diocese and described the Taize prayer evening they attended last evening at the Eucharistic Congress.
Conor Faughnan of AA Roadwatch discussed the government proposal that penalty points may be increased for 11 offences linked to dangerous driving as part of a review of the system. The Oireachtas Committee on Transport will be looking at an overhaul of penalty points. It is part of the Road Traffic Bill to be published later this year. One area under consideration is the increase in the number of penalty points for speeding from 2 to a possible 3 points. Other offences earmarked for an increase include front seatbelt offences and using a mobile phone.
Local sculptor Michael McTeigue was also in studio to talk about a new memorial plaque for musician Pat McHugh, which has been erected by the River Fergus in the Parnell Street car park in Ennis. Michael created it in memory of the Belfast native who was well known for playing with the Clare Celts, a popular rebel music band, along with the band’s founder Paddy Commane, banjo player Tony McTeigue (son of Michael), mandolin player Leo and others. He also came to prominence for singing the Clare hurling song ‘Path’s to Glory.’
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