On today’s edition of The Afternoon Show Maire was joined by Niamh Farrell from AMEN. Amen Support Services Ltd. is a voluntary group, founded in December 1997, which provides a confidential helpline, a support and information service for male victims of domestic abuse. Thousands of men and supportive members of their families have contacted the helpline since it was set up. The number of men reporting domestic abuse is on the rise. Amen says it has seen an increase of 23% in calls to the service between 2011 and 2012. Launching its 2012 annual report today, the organisation says there was also 68% increase in the number of men reporting physical abuse. The AMEN Helpline number is 046 902 3718 or you can email [email protected] for more details.
Pearl Kiely and Tommy Drennan of the Ennis Academy of Performing Arts also joined Máire in studio to talk about their 20 year role in the development of actors, singers and dancers from around the county. Pearl and Tommy discussed the role of drama and song has in educational and social terms for kids.
Bernard Purcell, Editor of The Irish World newspaper in London also joined the show for a look at what’s making headlines in the UK and also what stories are impacting on the Irish community. He spoke about the numbers of Irish, particularly Clare natives who are now calling London home and how they’ll be gathering together to watch the All Ireland Final on Sunday.
Frances O’Neill from Tuamgraney and Mary Slattery from Scariff also joined Máire in studio to talk about the role of the Scarriff & Tuamgraney Active Age Group. This evening from 5pm, the group will launch a new exhibition of ceramic work – created by the group, who are aged 60+. The exhibition runs until the 26th September in Scariff Library.
To contact the show please email [email protected]