On Tuesday's edition of Morning Focus with John Cooke
The rate of suicide in Clare last year was at its highest level in at least a decade. The rate of suicide amongst Clare males last year was the highest of any county in Ireland. 17 of the 18 people who died by suicide here were male – that total number is four higher than in 2013, and the highest recorded in Clare this decade. The overall rate of suicide in the county was also 53% higher than the national average, though throughout Ireland the number of people who were registered as having taken their own lives dropped by 16. Dr. Billy O' Connell Miltown Malbay GP and of the West Clare Taking Care group spoke to John about the need for more mental health education in our school's curriculum. Ennis man Tom McEvoy of Funding and Advocacy Pieta House, also spoke to us about the services and supports available to help those experiencing suicidal thoughts – Here are the numbers to call: Samaritans on 116123, Aware.ie on 1890 303302, Console on 1800 247247 and Pieta House Midwest on 061 484444
A High Court action against plans to provide free GP care for children under the age of six, which is being taken by a Shannon-based doctor, has been adjourned. In what's seen as an important test case, Dr Yvonne Williams claims the HSE's plans will threaten her practice and has sought an injunction against it to stop the terms of her existing contract being amended. The case will now be heard on June 11th. Dr. Williams spoke to John
Dr. John Hillery has confirmed that he will seek the Fianna Fáil nomination to run in the forthcoming general election. Dr. Hillery, who was an unsuccessful candidate in the election of 2011, is the latest name to throw his hat in the ring ahead of the party's selection convention. The Miltown Malbay native and son of former President Patrick Hillery has stated that a 'lack of clarity' surrounding the Fianna Fáil selection in Clare is hurting the party's chances of reclaiming a second seat here. It's not known when Fianna Fáil will finalise their line-up. He joined us on the show.
Garda Focus next with Sergeant Joe Downey Crime Prevention Officer, at Ennis Garda Station joined following the June Bank Holiday Weekend,aAppealing for your help in solving recent local crime.
The MONEY DOCTOR John Lowe – for all your financial needs answered your queries and talked bank cuts to variable interest rates for variable mortgages, due to come into play in July.
John Cooke spoke with Mary Morrissey, Chairperson of the Day Care Centre Clarecastle Board, and Marie Griffin Cratloe who told us of the importance of the Fergus Wing in the centre that caters for patients suffering from Alzheimers and Dementia. 3 times a week Maire's husband, Vincent, visits the Fergus Wing in the Daycare centre and finds it a fantastic service not only for the patients but for their families. The Clarecastle Daycare Centre are hosting a fundraising Scenic walk / run / jog takes place this Saturday with registration the evening before or the morning of from 9am. Leaving the Church Car park at 11am with the majority of funds raised going to the Fergus Wing.
Frankie Coote Clare ISPCA and CountyDog warden joined us in studio with the latest Animal welfare reports from around the county. Dog Pound 68 20393
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