On Fridays Morning Focus John began by speaking to Timmy Dooley – Clare Fianna Fail TD and Pat Breen – Clare Fine Gael TD It's over six months since the last of the severe weather hit the county and the county council has yet to learn if their request for a second round of money has been granted. It follows a letter from office of Public works to Clohaninchy Action Group to say new coastal defences there are not in the government's plans. John spoke to both TD's about where the needed money stands now.
Up next we spoke about the issue of road signage. Anne Rabbitte is a Fianna Fáil Cllr from Portumna she got in touch with Clare FM about the issue of road signage. Anne insists that while the Wild Atlantic way is a fantastic she is worried about the lack of signs on all roads to pull these international tourists into our small towns and villages. She believes people in these rural areas are fighting to boost the economy in their own areas yet what been done to help them? Orla Vaughan of Kilfenora Hostel is one of those people she says the lack of signage is very worrying.
A Clare author has been long-listed for one of the most prestigious literary awards in the World. Dublin-born Niall Williams, who has been living in West Clare for the past 30 years, is nominated for this year's Man Booker Prize for his work, 'The History of Rain'. He's one of 13 authors up for the prize, and one of two Irish nominees. John spoke to Niall about being on the list for this prestigious award.
Women with IBS outnumber men by two to one, for reasons that are not yet understood. IBS isresponsible for more time lost from work and school than any medical problem other than the common cold. Uncomfortable and unflattering bloating is one of the main symptoms of IBS along with abdominal pain, gas, diarrhoea, and constipation. John spoke to Dr. Eileen Murphy a Nutritionist about the issue.
Have you ever thought about teaching English abroad? Well that's exactly what Louise Griffin from Clarecastle did. In her late 20s and has taught in South Korea and, more recently, Italy. She joined John in studio to share her experience. John was also joined by Ennis resident Erin Spillane – Teacher/Tutor at Clare Language Centre who told John how you can get the qualification here in Ennis.
Finally John took a look at what's happening around the county this weekend –
The Doonbeg Seafood Festival will take place from July 25th to July 27th 2014. Events include Paddle boating,Dog Show,Regatta,Kayaking, Duck Race, Fish Market and Vintage Rally amongst other activities. The festival has something for everyone from foodies to families, couples to children.
The Scattery Island Festival takes place this weekend. It is a Brian Boru themed event with a re-enactment of his controversial invasion of Scattery in 977. The annals tell us that he invaded Inis Cathaigh (Scattery Island) to hunt down Ivar of Limerick and his sons and he put them to the sword in revenge for the murder of his brother Mahon. The local Crack'd Spoon Theatre Group. The festival will also feature a Viking treasure hunt, OPW guided tours and music and song will be provided by Inis Cathaigh Comhaltas. This year we will also focus on the river and estuary connection, and on the Sunday we have boats from all over Clare, Limerick and Kerry attending the event. This will be a spectacular show with the community of the river coming alive to celebrate the estuary and its importance to the whole region. There will be boats, yachts and currachs from all over the region including, Limerick Docks, Clarecastle, Foynes Harbour, Glin, Ballylongford, Killadysert Pier, Tarbert, Cappa, Kilbaha, Carrigaholt, Querrin, Askeaton and Deal. This flotilla of boats will add great colour and excitement to the event.
The Corofin (North Clare) Agricultural Show takes place on Saturday 26th July 2014 Show starts @ 9.30am sharp with Horse and Pony Jumping. Classes also in horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, donkeys and also a dog show. Dog show commences with entries taken 1pm approx, other classes start approx 11.30am. Indoor exhibits in flowers, vegs, home baking, crafts, poultry and many children's classes.
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