clare.fm

Morning Focus Thursday May 17

morningfocus — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:01:34 +0000

On Thursday's Morning Focus John Cooke was joined by Sinn Fein Leader Gerry Adams TD who is in Ennis today as Sinn Fein kicks off Rural Ireland Consultation
They had a word about the Fiscal Compact Treaty - Deputy Adams urging people to vote against it

Deputy Adams maintained that rural Ireland is under attack, that the policies of austerity are stripping local communities of essential services – of schools, of guidance counsellors, hospitals, post-offices and Garda stations
He added that it is also adding new stealth taxes like the Universal Social Charge, the Household Charge, VAT increases, motor tax increases and septic tank charges
Their goal is to produce a plan for the regeneration and growth of rural communities
He hopes to meet Clare groups representing small schools facing cuts, effected by emigration, fishermen, turf cutters and reps of emotional support services
The public meeting will be at 8 pm in the Temple Gate Hotel.

The Greens Party's spokesman on Europe Councillor Brian Meaney says the party is "still so toxic" in the public eye that it should play no role in canvassing for the fiscal treaty
He joined John in studio and said a canvassing effort by the Greens could backfire on the yes side and actually harm the treaty’s chances of ratification
Councillor Meaney added the opinions of the Greens were "mostly irrelevant" to the bulk of the electorate in any case.

Tomorrow will see the last presentation of FETAC certificates to students of St Joseph’s Training Centre at Auburn Lodge Hotel, Ennis at 1pm
The centre first opened in 1974, the Ennis Traveller Training Centre was the first of its kind in Ireland
It is set to close its doors on June 29th – the 13 staff will be redeployed
John met Triona Lynch- the former Director, Helen O’Sullivan who worked there for 16 years and former learners Peter Quinn from Ennis and Astrid MCCarthy from Ennis spoke about their personal experience of the centre.

In this week's Grow It Yourself slot John was joined in studio by GIY Regional Organiser Carmen Cronin and Eva Hegarty of Burren Free Range Pork
Today's theme was: Rearing pigs - the unexpected clever mammals
Eva spoke about the basic requirements for rearing free range pigs; the advantages and disadvantages of it; feeding, time requirements and cost associated with the process; abattoirs and what to do with the pig when its reared and had tips on the best places to source pigs/piglet
See www.GIYIreland.com or email GIYennis@gmail.com

The launch of the newly built traditional wooden sailing hooker the Sally O’Keeffe this weekend sees the culmination of years work and cooperative efforts by lots of people in West Clare
Funded as a Leader training programme and led by Stephen Morris the local boat builder - it will be a day in a century for West Clare
The launch will take place at 5pm on Saturday and sail to Carrigaholt accompanied by sailing boats from the Shannon Estuary
Matthew Birmingham, a local man in his 90's will launch the boat
Prior to that they’re to have a currach regatta and pageant, Sean Sceál Sionna involving local school kids telling the story on the Shannon
Trea Heapes of Seol Sionna and Criostóir Mac Carthaigh of the Folklore Department at UCS - an archivist who specialises in the history of boats on River Shannon- had a word about the significance of the project.

Clare Primary Schools are celebrating European Culture today, as they await a visit from a government Minister
A number of local schools are participating in the European Blue Star Programme to learn more about the European Union and how it affects our lives and Minister for European Affairs Lucinda Creighton will be assessing their progress later
The Minster is due in Kilkee to meet pupils from Kilbaha, Shragh, and Querrin National schools - she'll also visit Barefield National School and is starting with Scoil na Mhaidin Mhuire in Newmarket on Fergus where they're holding their own Europe Day
Principal Ann McMahon spoke with John and said students have enjoyed learning more about the EU, particularly due to a diverse population in the community.

The local Irish Cancer Society's Annual fundraiser The Pink Party is taking place this Friday at 8pm in Charlie Stewarts, Ennis
It'll see the first Mr Pink Competition with special guest Alan Quinlan
Claire O'Meara of the Irish Cancer Society Shop in Woodquay, Ennis joined John to talk about their work and encourage people to go along and support on Friday night.

If you have a story, comment or query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

Bingo Results 17 May

rehabradiobingo — Thu, 17 May 2012 10:00:48 +0000

There was no winner from yesterday’s draw which means today’s prize is 1600
It is week 8 and we are playing off the PINK page of your book – the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

32 74 29 52 30 56 39 61 46 62

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065
6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s
prize of €1600. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget Tuesday is jackpot day and it currently stands at €6000

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

Bingo Results 16 May

rehabradiobingo — Wed, 16 May 2012 16:14:19 +0000

There was no winner from yesterdays draw which means today’s prize is 1400 euro.

It is week 8 and we are playing off the BLUE page of your book – the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

50 54 11 72 75 44 23 52 46 88

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065 6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s prize of €1400. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget Tuesday is jackpot day and it currently stands at €6000.00

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

The Today Show - Wednesday May 16th

todayshow — Wed, 16 May 2012 13:56:47 +0000

Mary McEvoy, the actress best known for her role as “Biddy” in Glenroe, spoke to Gavin Grace on today’s edition of The Today Show about her battle with depression. Four in ten people in Ireland have admitted that they would not want to know if a friend or loved one was suffering from depression, according to research undertaken for the launch of Lean on Me Pharmacy, an extension of the successful Lean on Me depression awareness campaign. The statistic shows that a significant proportion of people still have difficulty discussing the topic of depression openly. Mary has lived with depression for the last 15 years and manages it on an ongoing basis and is now campaigning to raise awareness of the illness. If you or someone you know would like more information or support in relation to depression and mental health please call Aware on 1890 303 302 or for young people see www.headstrong.ie

Ciaran Gallagher is a Boxing Columnist with the Irish Daily Mail; he joined Gavin on The Today Show following the news that Boxer Katie Taylor has secured her spot on the Irish Olympic team for the games in London this summer. She received a walkover in her World Championship quarter final in China this morning, after her opponent pulled out because of a neck injury. A short time later, a fighter from Tajikistan beat her French opponent in another quarter final, which saw the Bray lightweight go through to take one of 3 European places up for grabs. Her father and coach Peter says Katie couldn't even watch the match that secured her place in London!

Dr Máire Finn of the Ennis Family Medical Centre was in studio to answer listener’s medical queries. Today Máire focused on IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. She discussed the triggers for IBS, symptoms and things you can do to alleviate it. She suggests keeping a diary of things that make your IBS flare up and monitoring these. If you have a query for Dr. Finn please email them to today@clare.fm.

Gavin was also joined in studio by musical guest, Fionnuala Gill. Fionnuala is a singer and musician, world famous for her involvement with Riverdance and Anuna. Fionnuala has now released her solo album “Whispers of Love”. She has sung for the President of Ireland, Queen Fabiola of Belgium, His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Fionnuala brought her harp along and performed a track from her new album

If you have a comment or query for The Today Show please email today@clare.fm or text the show – Clare FM followed by your message to 53030

Morning Focus Wednesday May 16

morningfocus — Wed, 16 May 2012 09:52:38 +0000

Former Presidential Candidate Sean Gallagher spoke publicly for the first time yesterday about his treatment on the RTE Frontline Presidential debate last year
The defeated candidate - who was the subject of a bogus tweet read out during the programme in October - says its outrageous that it wasn't verified

On Wednesday's Morning Focus Enda Leahy of the Irish Mail on Sunday discussed this with John Cooke.

We returned to the topic of communion spending with Fr Brendan Quinlivan - Parish Priest of Feakle, Flagmount and Kilanena and Killaloe Diocese Communications Officer
He said this has long been a concern of the Church and added that making communion in uniforms may be more appropriate.

Councillor Pat Burke in Mountshannon says there has been a fantastic atmosphere in the East Clare location over the past few weeks as people flock to the area to go Eagle – spotting
Pat was there three times there over the weekend and again this morning and says there are lots of tourists there from all over the country.
Eoin O’Hagan of www.clarevirtually.ie said it has provided a much needed tourism boost to the area.

Dr Alan Mee of the Golden Eagle Trust contact the programme with some bad news- the White Tailed Eagles have abandoned the nest and attempts to breed have failed
He expressed their deep disappointment and thanked the people of Mountshannon for their help and support over the past weeks.

Dr Harry Barry had a word about the fourth instalment of the 'Flagging' series
Flagging Depression not only reaches out to those dealing with depression, but also their friends and family, offering vital assistance
It lays out a practical four-step approach with particular emphasis on how to feel better, get better and stay well
It aims to be the most practical book in the series yet - and a pragmatic, holistic, helpful book on the topic of depression - Flagging Depression aims to give those suffering with depression the language to talk about how they feel
With the link between depression and suicide increasing, particularly during these difficult times, Dr Barry aims to help not only those with depression but their families and friends who are often overlooked yet are under severe stress in trying to help their loved one.

Eleanor Feely- Artist in Residence at St Joseph’s Hospital, Ennis- is one of the organisers of events for the Bealtaine Festival in Clare
The festival is all about celebrating creativity as we age - there's lots happening in Clare

For more information about events taking place in Clare contact 065-6899091 / 065-6899090
Eleanor The first event is on at DeValera Library later this afternoon – ‘Synge Songs’ a celebration of music at the time of Synge, Yeats and Joyce- with Eleanor and a violinist-this event is open to all.

Anne Maire O’Reilly of the Clare Citizens’ Information Service was in studio to answer listeners' social welfare, employment and consumer right queries.

If you have a story, a comment or a query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

The Today Show - Tuesday May 15th

todayshow — Tue, 15 May 2012 13:53:26 +0000

On today’s show Gavin Grace was joined in studio by Cora Summerville from Doora. Cora is a
Volunteer with New Horizons, who organise a social support group. Following her retirement from An Garda Siochana, she took up jewellery making and now teaches others through New Horizons who meet every Friday in Ennis. Cora also holds the title for Co. Clare’s first female Garda, she spent 30 years in service to the community. She joined Gavin to talk about her role as a volunteer as this week is National Volunteering Week, organised by Volunteer Ireland and undertaken by groups and communities nationwide. In a recent survey of more than 500 active volunteers, carried out by Volunteer Ireland, 43% said that ‘personal belief for a cause’ was the most important part of their decision to volunteer, followed by the ‘organisation’s values and principles’ (24%) and the ‘experience people will gain’ (21%). 76% said that volunteering was either ‘essential’ or ‘very important’ for the future of their community. The survey also found that being involved in volunteering brings positive benefits to people themselves with 98% responding that ‘volunteering makes them a happier person’. The Clare Volunteer Centre has also organised a poetry competition to celebrate the act of volunteering in the county – see www.volunteerclare.ie

Aileen Browne of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service also spoke to Gavin about how blood donors in Clare have made significant contributions to the service in recent years and are continuing to do so. 35 blood donors from across Clare received a special gold pin last Friday night in an event to celebrate their 50th blood donation to the IBTS. Of the 35 awarded the pin were - 15 Donors who donate in Ennis, 6 Donors who donate in Shannon. 6 who donate in Scarriff, 3 who donate in Kilrush, 2 who donate in Killaloe, 2 who donate in Spanish Point and one Donor who donates in Ennistymon. Aileen is also appealing to the people of Clare to continue to support the service and donate throughout the Summer months. For details of where and when you can give blood see www.giveblood.ie or call the Mid West office on 061 306980

Sarah Malone is the PRO for this year’s Burren Slow Food Festival. The 7th annual festival is organised and presented by Slow Food Clare. It takes place this weekend – from the 18th to the 20th May and this year features TV Chef Donal Skehan, beer tastings, farmers markets, cookery demonstrations by local chefs and seaweed foraging! For more details of events taking place this weekend see www.slowfoodclare.com

Gearoid Mannion of Tom Mannion Travel Worldchoice in Ennis was in studio for his weekly Travel Feature; this week Gearoid advised the Algarve in Portugal as a holiday destination. He discussed flights to and from Shannon to Faro airport, resorts catering for families or individuals in Vilamoura, Albufeira, Lagos and Alvor. He discussed day trips and visits to Lisbon and separate trips to Fatima, Porta and areas further north.

Philip Moreau, our resident Horticulturist from Tuamgraney joined Gavin for his gardening feature -In The Garden. He discussed how to get rid of vine weevils, avoiding rotting strawberries, how to keep animals away from crops of beetroot and how to move bluebells and other bulb plants to another area. If you have a specific query for Philip email today@clare.fm

If you would like to contact The Today Show please email us at today@clare.fm or text the show – Clare FM followed by your message to 53030.

Morning Focus Tuesday May 15

morningfocus — Tue, 15 May 2012 09:57:08 +0000

Clare County Council is calling on Energy Minister Pat Rabbitte to 'urgently intervene' `to stop the Commissioner for Energy Regulation introducing tariffs which could scupper the plans by Shannon LNG
The facility, which would be located at a Shannon Development owned site at Ballylongford in Kerry, would lead to the creation of up to 640 jobs during construction, as well as another 100 when in operation
A combined heat and power plant at an adjacent site could create half as many - the overall cost is one billion euro.
However, the company has threatened to pull the plug on the project if the Commissioner proceeds with a proposal to force it to pay a tariff for gas interconnectors it would not use

On Tuesday's Morning Focus with John Cooke we heard from Michael Briggane - Head of HR and Corporate Affairs with Shannon LNG - who said the delays they are experiencing as a result of the commissioner's intervention are threatening the project's future

Kildysart Councillor Oliver Garry and Mayor of Clare Councillor Pat Hayes gave their reaction

Also, Clare County Council is calling on the government to implement its plans for the airport as soon as possible, amid fears of 'asset stripping'.

Parents are being warned not to overspend on communion celebrations
Some families are paying out as much as 16-hundred euro on their child's big day
First there are the outfits, costing up to 600 euro for girls and 280 for boys
Then the transport - with some parents opting for limos and hummers - usually followed by a party
John Mark McCafferty, Head of Social Justice and Policy with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, had a word with John.

Listener Joe Gannon in Cloughleigh spoke about his son's communion where the pupils wore their school uniforms.

The campaign to secure a playground for the town of Gort has being ongoing for many years
A site has been secured on the Ennis road and planning permission has been granted -the voluntary Gort Playground Group Limited has been leading efforts to build a play area in the town that doesn't have any such amenity
A major fundraising drive is now underway to finalise the project - Martin Aherne of the Gort Playground Group Ltd joined John in studio.

In Morning Focus' Legal Advice Slot today Mairead Doyle of Michael Houlihan and Co.- a volunteer solicitor with the Free Legal Advice Clinic at Clare Citizens Information Centre - looked at domestic violence issues- particularly at recent changes to safety orders.
Clare Haven provide court accompaniment for women - they also help to prepare for court
Contact 065 68 42646.

Every community in Ireland is being urged to get involved in The Gathering Ireland 2013, the biggest tourism event ever held in Ireland
It will involve a series of new festivals and events being held especially in order to encourage more visitors to Ireland next year
Community projects already underway include clan gatherings, genealogical projects, and an outreach initiative where local communities will contact people who have left the country
One Irish family from Dysart recently returned from the US is already organising an O’Dea clan gathering for 2013
Paul Keeley, Director of Enterprise Development at Failte Ireland, had a word with John and Clare Tourism Forum Chairperson Barbara Faulkner spoke about Clare’s leading role in developing cultural tourism to date and how it can play a key role in the success of the Gathering.

Clare ISPCA Warden Frankie Coote joined John for his weekly slot where he reminds animal owners of their legislative responsibilities and has advice on the proper care of animals
The Clare ISPCA have been been getting numerous and serious complaints about litter and loose dogs attacking other dogs on the county's beaches.

If you have a story, comment or query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

Bingo Results 15 May

rehabradiobingo — Tue, 15 May 2012 09:48:22 +0000

There was no winner from yesterdays draw which means today’s prize is 1200 Euro

It is jackpot day and today’s jackpot number is 60 and if this number is the 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 8th 9th or 10th number called out you could win or share today’s jackpot of €5700

It is week8 and we are playing off the ORANGE page of your book – the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

86 24 33 39 52 80 71 81 74 43

As the jackpot number was not called out you next weeks jackpot will stand at 6000euro

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065 6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could also win or share in today’s prize of €1200. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

The Today Show - Monday May 14th

todayshow — Mon, 14 May 2012 13:35:00 +0000

Noel Scanlon, from Sixmilebridge spoke to Gavin Grace on today’s edition of The Today Show about his personal story of the impact of the recession, emigration on his and his family’s life. Noel has returned from Afghanistan where he was working as Construction Manager for a Danish company, which works to support the forces within NATO/ISAF military bases in the war torn country. Noel worked in the region of Kandahar, Uruzghan and Helmand province. His role was to oversee construction on the military bases such as Camp Bastion. He spoke about experiencing explosions and the loss of life of those on the ground. Noel is married to Laura and father to two sons, Daithi and Oisin, he’s a businessman and now a blogger. He took up an appointment in Afghanistan in July 2011 as a result of the challenging economic conditions at home and tells his story in his regular blog http://longwaytogoforasuntan.blogspot.com/

David Moore, Chairman of Astronomy Ireland discussed how some of the world's top astronomers believe that life on Earth is likely to suffer a huge catastrophe following a massive impact by an asteroid on March 16th, 2880, the day before St Patrick's Days, leaving "only" 867 of the Irish holidays left! They expect this disaster will be caused by asteroid 1950AD, a 1.1km asteroid, which will impact with an energy of 100 million tons of TNT - almost 7,000 times stronger than the atomic bomb used on Hiroshima in 1945. Jay Tate, director of Spaceguard UK, is a world leader in this subject and will deliver Astronomy Ireland's Public Lecture tonight (Monday, May 14th) at 8pm in Trinity College Dublin. This talk will be available on DVD, for those interested see www.astronomy.ie

Our resident stylist and fashion expert Tess Purcell was in studio to talk about current trends for events that take place at this time of year – namely communions, confirmations and weddings!
Tess is a qualified style coach, accomplished fashion stylist and personal shopper. Following intensive training in the beauty and cosmetic business with Dior, Tess now specialises in helping both women and men around the country make the most of their wardrobes, as well as styling various fashion shows and editorial shoots.

If you would like to contact the show please email today@clare.fm or text the show – Clare FM followed by your message to 53030

Bingo Results 14 May

rehabradiobingo — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:57:05 +0000

There was no winner from Fridays draw which means todays prize is 1000 Euro
It is week8 and we are playing off the GREEN page of your book – the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

19 13 41 54 71 50 22 51 28 4

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065 6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s prize. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget tomorrow is jackpot day and it currently stands at €5,700

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

Morning Focus Monday May 14

morningfocus — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:44:01 +0000

On Monday's Morning Focus John Cooke was joined by Lucinda Creighton TD, Minister of State - European Affairs and Professor Terrence McDonough, Economist - NUI Galway to debate the Fiscal Compact Treaty.

The Minister for European Affairs has rejected claims that Ireland has a veto over the EU's emergency bailout fund - the ESM
She says Ireland won't have access to the fund unless the EU fiscal treaty is ratified
Prof McDonough has described the Fiscal Treaty as not a safe option but a perilous experiment
A Public Meeting on the Fiscal Treaty will take place this evening in the Auburn Lodge Hotel in Ennis at 8pm.

There has been an increase in the number of crisis pregnancies
A new survey shows that 36 per cent of women experienced an unplanned pregnancy last year - compared to 28 per cent in a similar study in 2003
The report from the Health Service Executive's Crisis Pregnancy Programme shows that 14 per cent of the women opted for an abortion - with the vast majority being carried out in the UK
Dr Stephanie O’Keeffe, Director of the Crisis Pregnancy Programme, joined John to discuss the results of the study.
For more information see www.crisispregnancy.ie or www.b4udecide.ie or text your name and address to 40555.

The Corofin Dramatic Society came 3rd in the All Ireland drama festival in Athlone over the weekend with their production of "The Subject was Roses"
They also won best lighting and Maura Clancy got the best actress award
John spoke with Maura Clancy and Producer John Clancy who said they were thrilled with the result, it was their first year in Athlone.

Sergeant Joe Downey, Crime Prevention Officer with the Clare Garda Division, joined John in studio for this week's Garda Focus and appealed to the public for information on crimes committed in the county
Contact Ennis Garda Station on 065 68 48 100.

Last week saw the government herald a new dawn from Shannon Airport as Minister Richard Burton and Leo Varadkar announced a New drive to develop world-class aviation industry in Shannon
The Government confirmed it has decided to separate Shannon Airport from the Dublin Airport Authority and bring it together with Shannon Development to form a new entity with a commercial mandate in public ownership - and the ministers involved described it as a new era for the region
Ryanair's Michael O'Leary isn't so sure as he explained to John.

John Murphy, Chairman of the Clare branch of Birdwatch Ireland, joined John for his weekly slot where he answers listeners' bird and wildlife queries
He also spoke about the two White Tailed Eagles nested in Mountshannon whose chicks are due to hatch any day now.

If you have a story, comment or query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

A fit Honan would be huge boost for Clare

sportreview — Sat, 12 May 2012 13:33:01 +0000

The revelation by Darach Honan that he may not make any senior county appearance this season is another disappointing blow for one of the county's finest talents.

It is very difficult to explain the buzz of anticipation that rippled through a crowd when the forward won a ball 30 meters from goal and turned to bear down on an opposing full back line.

His pace as well as height gave him a huge advantage over any opponents at underage level and his performances during the 2010 Munster and All Ireland campaign for Clare will live long in the memory.

Unfortunately due to injury that is all Clare fans have to recall about Honan after injury robbed him of the last 18 months.

The key now is whether he can recapture any of the flair and frisson he created in his prime two season's ago for Clare.

It was telling that Honan revealed that he played through the pain barrier in last year's Munster semi final against Tipperary-showing one how much he wants to play for Clare but two that before this year he remained one of the county's main attacking options.

The issue now is where would a fit Honan play in Davy Fitzgerald's possession, short passing style.

Honan likes to be left isolated in the full forward line, but with Conor Mc Grath and Colin Ryan fulfilling those duties can Darach adapt his game to suit Clare and once again thrill Banner fans.

One hopes he can but having missed so much action over the last season and a half it is difficult to assess if he can achieve the potential that no doubt he possesses.

The only certainty is that the sooner he gets a hurl back in his hand for Clonlara and Clare the better.

Bingo Results 11 May

rehabradiobingo — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:33:26 +0000

There was no winner from yesterdays draw which means today’s prize is €800.

It is week 7 and we are playing off the YELLOW page of your book – and the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

62 4 80 71 59 23 14 57 28 41

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065 6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s prize of E800. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget Tuesday is jackpot day and it currently stands at €5,700

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

The Today Show - Friday May 11th

todayshow — Fri, 11 May 2012 13:29:08 +0000

On The Today Show this afternoon Gavin Grace spoke with Martin Critten from Kildysert. Martin, originally from the North of England, but who has lived in Ireland for the past nine years, has set off on a walk from Limerick to Dublin today in the hope of forming a new political party along the way. Martin says he is fed up with political parties “foisting their agenda” on the people of Ireland; an agenda which he says suits the “speculators, bondholders and European banks”. Based in Kildysert, the part-time consultant says that he plans to set off from Limerick County Council offices, and will stop at towns and villages along the way in order to try and recruit “like minded people who are passionate enough to stand up to the challenge of forming a new party”. His website www.sliniosfearr.com invites visitors to submit their ideas in order to help build a manifesto.

17 year old Eleanor Collins is a student at Mary Immaculate Secondary School in Lisdoonvarna. She joined Gavin on The Today Show to talk about how she has become one of only 12 students from across Ireland who has made it to the final of the Le Crunch Photobyte Schools Photography Competition for 2012. Her photo “Yes to Apples” will be exhibited in the Hugh Lane Gallery, Dublin for the Grand Final on Monday May 14th. It was also be on display in Dunnes Stores across the country where the public will be invited to vote on their favourite photo. To view the photos you can go to www.ouitolecrunch.com

Actor Des Keogh - one of Ireland’s foremost entertainers, spoke to The Today Show in advance of his performance of The Love Hungry Farmer in Glor tonight. Des returns with his hugely successful and award winning one man show based on the play by John B Keane. It tells the story of John Bosco McLane, a bachelor of ‘indeterminate’ age and according to his own assessment, ‘past his best’. McLane’s amorous adventures range from the hilarious to the pitiful and as Des explained – the show ranges from comedy to highlighting the issue of isolation and loneliness.

Molly Muldoon, Deputy Editor of Irish Central in New York joined the show for her weekly feature
on what’s making headlines in the USA, what’s affecting the Irish Community abroad and having an impact here at home. Today Molly spoke about President Obama’s support for gay marriage and the impact this will have on his campaign for re-election.

If you would like to contact The Today Show please email today@clare.fm or alternatively you can text the show – Clare FM followed by your message to 53030

Morning Focus Friday May 11

morningfocus — Fri, 11 May 2012 09:52:52 +0000

The End of Life Care Programme is being rolled out in hospitals in the Midwest in an effort to ensure that dying patients receive the best possible care
The Network of Hospice Friendly Hospitals includes 25 acute and over 30 community hospitals (including Ennis)

On Friday's Morning Focus John Cooke spoke with End of Life Care Coordinator at the Mid Western Regional Hospital Miriam McCarthy and Frank Gunter from Inagh who spoke about his families experience at the launch
His sister-in-law Carmel died in the Regional Hospital in Limerick in January of this year
It was a very emotional, difficult time but the family found the staff to be helpful and sensitive
A caller from Kilrush Steve Fletcher praised the care his mother-in-law of his received in Limerick Regional and in Regina House in Kilrush.

Currently results for the www.clare.fm poll

How will you vote in the EU Fiscal Referendum?

• Yes –34%
• No – 52%
• Don’t know -14%

Dr Kieran Allen, a UCD Sociologist and author of "The Fiscal Treaty & The Euro Crisis - Reasons To Vote No" claims that Ireland faces twenty years of hardship if it votes Yes
Bank bailouts, savage attacks on health, education and welfare budgets, cuts to the public sector, wage cuts and extra taxes have devastated the lives of working class people in Ireland
He maintains austerity policies have also made the economic crisis much worse
The ‘Fiscal Treaty’ best described as an ‘Austerity Treaty’, If passed, it will mean ever more savage attacks, as governments are forced to introduce swinging cuts and increases on the taxes being paid by ordinary people

Kieran will be speaking on the Fiscal Treaty at a Public meeting in Kilkee at 7pm in the Stella Maris hotel on Sunday

On the Yes side was Brendan Butler - Director of International Affairs at IBEC
Much of the country’s business representatives launched 'Business for Ireland' at the Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin on Wednesday
They are calling for an emphatic YES vote in the upcoming Stability Treaty referendum saying it’s vital to keep Ireland on the path to recovery and ensure economic stability
The group warned that a No vote would lead to dangerous economic uncertainty and raise questions about the future funding of the state

Clare Local Development Company are encouraging local community groups and individuals to register their interest in the 'Clare Villages And Towns 2012: Your Place, Your Space' initiative by attending a seminar in Quin Community Hall on Saturday from 9.30am to 1pm
Following the event, local groups will be invited to apply to be one of nine towns selected to receive additional expert guidance and mentoring from Cunnane Stratton

Reynolds (CSR) Landscape Architects & Town Planning consultants
Keith Mitchell, Associate Director at Cunnane Stratton Reynolds and Ger Kennedy
Enterprise and Rural Development Manager with Clare Local Development Company
See www.cldc.ie

Clean Coast Week takes place this weekend- Annabel Fitzgerald of the Environmental Unit of An Taisce encouraged people to get involved.

A new heritage group has formed in North Clare
The new Doolin Heritage Committee and the plans for the Heritage Weekend on 16-17th June in Doolin
Joseph McCooey and Sean O’Connor of the Doolin Heritage Committee joined John in studio.

If you have a story, comment or query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

The Today Show - Thursday May 10th

todayshow — Thu, 10 May 2012 13:38:36 +0000

Nigel O’Callaghan from online youth mental health group - Reachout.com spoke to Gavin on today’s edition of The Today Show. As exam season kicks-off for students across Ireland, ReachOut.com, want to emphasise the importance of looking after yourself rather than letting exams stress you out. A recent survey has shown that 96% of students get stressed out over exams with 59% saying the pressure comes from their folks and 56% admitting that not doing as well as their mates makes them worry. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by exam stress ReachOut.com recommends talking to someone close to them about it. Students can log also on to ReachOut.com for advice on what to do if exam worries are getting on top of you, hints for effective studying, and advice on coping with exam results when things don’t go to plan.

Looking for a cheap holiday? Well a heartbroken man who bought a holiday to Malta for his girlfriend has decided to give it away for free after they split up. Tom Frankenburg from Nottingham, posted a video on YouTube in which he says he'll give the July trip to the most deserving person. The 22-year-old guitar teacher booked the holiday from the 3rd to the 10thJuly. It includes return flights from East Midlands Airport in England, a stay at a four-star hotel and car rental. Tom joined Gavin on the show to talk about the offer and how it came about. If you would like to write to Tom and ask for the holiday you can email iwantyourholiday@hotmail.com or post a video response to his original YouTube video appeal.

Today we also heard another instalment of our “Through the Ages” series. Today’s episode features pupils from Mol an Oige Steiner School in Ennistymon who bring to life memoirs and folklore collected by students 75 years ago. The essays (that resulted from an oral history project undertaken by the Folklore Commission in 1937) form a unique record of the customs, beliefs, stories and songs of that time. They include tales, traditions, old cures, riddles and jokes – and are reanimated by today’s pupils from across Co. Clare.

Clare FM’s Stephen McDermott – our resident film reviewer gave us the latest on what’s worth seeing in the cinema and reviewed the latest releases on DVD. He discussed Dark Shadows, directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp, The Lucky One featuring Zac Efron and Piranha 3DD.

If you want to contact The Today Show please email today@clare.fm or text Clare FM, followed by your message to 53030

Morning Focus Thursday May 10

morningfocus — Thu, 10 May 2012 09:57:51 +0000

On Thursday's Morning Focus John Cooke began by speaking with Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar about yesterday's long awaited announcement that Shannon Airport would be granted independence from the Dublin Airport Authority on a debt free basis

Under the plan unveiled by Leo Varadkar and Enterprise Minister Richard Bruton yesterday, Shannon Development will also be given a role in a new managerial body for the airport but the agency will lose all its tourism and industrial development functions
The government hopes Shannon can be developed as a centre for aviation activity, making use of thousands of acres of land adjoining the airport

Clare Fine Gael Deputy Pat Breen welcomed this as a necessary step forward for both the airport and the region

Shannon Fine Gael Senator Tony Mulcahy said autonomy will enable Shannon Airport to compete independently for business “without the dead hand of the Dublin Airport Authority”
The Government announcement in relation to an autonomous Shannon Airport and Free Zone marked the culmination of years of lobbying from public bodies, regional development agencies, private organisations and politicians in the Mid West Region

Labour Deputy Michael McNamara said the status quo wasn’t working and now autonomy within state ownership will give it a fresh start – hoping to recreate pioneering spirit of the early days of Shannon

Joe Carey TD of Fine Gael believes The Transport Minister's plans it will see new business coming into the Midwest

Shannon Chamber President Damien Gleeson said the decision "sparks a new future" for the airport - and also welcomed news that the IDA and Enterprise Ireland will take on the job of promoting investment in the region instead of Shannon Development

Residents and businesses in Shannon are broadly welcoming the Government’s decision to separate Shannon Airport from the Dublin Airport Authority.
Speaking to Clare FM’s Gavin Grace locals expressed their hope that a new independent Midwest Airport would lead to turnaround in its fortunes bringing in new airlines and boost employment locally…

The Irish Hotels Federation's Shannon based President Michael Vaughan says this is a momentous announcement marking a new era of opportunity for the region which will enable Shannon Airport to fulfil its potential to act as a significant tourism hub for the West coast of Ireland

Shannon Independent Councillor Patricia McCarthy and Senator Martin Conway of Fine Gael also had a word

Mayor of Clare Councillor Pat Hayes also welcomed the plans but says clarity and detail are needed

John also spoke with Marian O'Meara- a B&B owner in Shannon, Flan Garvey of the Clare Tourist Council and Joe Hardacre - who worked on the very first flight that landed in Shannnon in 1945.

If you have a story, comment or query for the Morning Focus team email Focus@clare.fm

Bingo Results 10 May

rehabradiobingo — Thu, 10 May 2012 09:46:10 +0000

There was no winner from yesterday’s draw which means today’s prize is 600euro

It is week 7 and we are playing off the PINK page of your book – eyes down and the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

32 24 11 42 1 58 7 52 26 79

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065
6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s
prize of €600. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget Tuesday is jackpot day and it currently stands at €5,700

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7

The Today Show - Wednesday May 9th

todayshow — Wed, 09 May 2012 13:41:59 +0000

On today’s edition of The Today Show Gavin Grace discussed the news that police in Perth, Western Australia, are seeking the assistance of GAA clubs to combat antisocial behaviour by young Irish emigrants. Robert O’Callaghan, a native of Cork and President of Western Australia GAA joined Gavin from Perth to discuss the issue. An email circulated by a Perth GAA club said the police would be visiting it and other GAA clubs in the city to advise young Irish people the police will be adopting a “zero tolerance policy for any antisocial behaviour” and that this could lead to deportation. Robert outlined how the police are using the GAA as a means of relaying information to the Irish community and not singling out GAA members. He says the issue of anti social behaviour in Australia is not an Irish problem but a social issue in general and said the actions of a few are having an impact on the good name and reputation of other emigrants.

Aine Carroll of the National Consumer Agency also joined the show to outline how you can clear your credit card debt. Ditch your credit card debt – an online guide for consumers who arte struggling to clear their credit card debt has become available as recent figures from the Central bank show the average debt per credit card in Ireland is €1,274. Aine advised how people can now log on to www.nca.ie and find out how to manage cash flow, manage debt, credit card comparisons and find out the best way to clear debt as quickly as possible.

Dr Máire Finn of the Ennis Family Medical Centre was in studio for her weekly medical feature – this week Máire focused on varicose veins, cellulitis and related issues. If you have a query fro Dr. Finn please email today@clare.fm

And local band Senekah were live in studio to discuss the release of their new single “The Frontline”. Lead singer, Robert Hope joined Gavin to talk about the bands success to date and their upcoming gigs in Clare and Limerick. Two of the band's members are from Clare - Darragh O'Loughlin from Sixmilebridge and Brendan O'Gorman from Scariff. The band have toured extensively in the USA and are now releasing their second album "Human Relations", produced by Noel Hogan from The Cranberries, in September.

If you have a comment or query for The Today Show please email today@clare.fm or alternatively you can text the show – Clare FM followed by your message to 53030

Bingo Results 09 May

rehabradiobingo — Wed, 09 May 2012 10:02:12 +0000

There was no winner from yesterdays draw which means today’s prize is 400 euro.

It is week 7 and we are playing off the BLUE page of your book – the very best of luck – here are today’s numbers

87 80 63 17 50 45 8 27 78 29

If you have managed to fill a panel with those numbers, call 065 6828966 before 8pm tonight and you could win or share in today’s prize of €400. If you are a winner, please keep your book until we verify the details.

Don’t forget Tuesday is jackpot day and it currently stands at €5700.00

Rehab Radio Bingo is broadcast daily on Clare FM at 10/12 / 3 / 5 and 7