On today's Morning Focus; John spoke to David Flynn, Programme Manager for the EPA's Office of Environmental Enforcement about a reports which states raw sewage is being discharged into rivers and bathing areas at five locations in Clare. A new report published by the Environmental Protection Agency has found that 42 areas in Ireland had no waste water treatment plant which means effluent is entering waterways putting people's health and the environment at risk. The document assesed treatment facilities in 2012 and found Ballyvaughan Clarecastle Kilkee Kilrush and Liscannor provided none or only preliminary service. While Shannon is highlighted with not complying with all of the mandatory effluent quality and sampling standards that year.
Up next we ask the question is Ennis struggling to stay open for business as shop doors continue to close? John was joined in studio by Rita McInerney CEO of Ennis Chamber of Commerce to hear what the chamber feel is happening in the county town. Cathy McMahon, owner of Young World which closed 5 weeks ago was also in studio for the discussion. The business was open 15 years in January. Cathy says it was very emotional. Things had really slowed down for them particularly in the last two years. Finally Mary O'Halloran, owner of An Binsin Luacra clothes shop joined in the conversation. Mary has been in business for 37 years, she began in her father businesses. She feels there are a lot of mixed messages out there. Mary feels better direction is needed for people in business from government. She believes harsh honesty is needed.
Rupert Bell, Racing Correspondent joined join on the line llive from Cheltenham. The four day racing spectacular is in its third day today. Rupert will preview the big races and hotly tipped contenders. We also look back at some of the tips from yesterday? Did Rupert make some good predictions for the listeners of Clare FM?
As Seachtain na Gaeilge continues John spoke to Breandáin MacFhionnghaile to get the latest results from the schools competitions as part of Feile na hInse this week.
Senator Deirdre Clune, Fine Gael European candidate for Ireland South called into studio as she was canvassing here in Clare today. John spoke to Senator Clune about her campaign and what she believes she can do for the Banner County.
John O'Sullivan is Dublin Coach Managing Director and a Labasheeda native. John spoke to Mr O'Sullivan about the official launch of the Ennis to Dublin commuter service. The company has already hired 15 local staff and hopes to build its service to include commuter routes and up to 50 staff in Clare next year.
Project San Marcos brings together the best in Irish historical, archaeological and scientific fields, united in the common goal of searching for and ultimately excavating this important Armada wreck off the coast of Clare at Spanish Point.
It is hoped that the summer of 2014 will see the final confirmation of the location of this great Portuguese battleship. John was joined in studio by John Treacy Project Director/ Co-ordinator joined John in studio to discuss the project.
Finally, John Underhill of Burren Vets was in studio to answer listeners' livestock and pet queries.
If you have a story, comment or query for Morning Focus email [email protected] or write to us – Morning Focus, Clare FM, Francis Street, Ennis, Co. Clare.
