On the show today it was time for the Friday Panel – joining Máire Moynahan was Claire Gallagher from The Clare People, Verena Tarpey from Rape Crisis Mid West and Mark Dunphy from Dunphy PR. They talked about how Ireland will become the first euro zone country to exit a stringent bailout programme this weekend, as the €85bn (£72bn) loan facility orchestrated by the IMF, the European commission and the European Central Bank formally expires. As Irish government ministers prepared to mark the bailout exit this morning, the vice-president of the European Union, Olli Rehn, said it was a mistake that the state gave a blanket guarantee to the country’s debt-ridden banks – precipitating a rescue call to the troika that rescued Ireland from collapse. However Finance Minister Michael Noonan says while we are exiting bailout, we must continue with the same type of economic policies, as Ireland’s deficit remains too high. They also talked about how Developer Sean Dunne gave wife Gayle Killilea €100m in 2005 in return for her "love and affection", he told US bankruptcy proceedings. He also got children, a happy marriage and his wife washed "the odd shirt". Also up for discussion was shopping locally this Christmas – West Clare retailers are reporting a pre Christmas Boost as more people shop local this year. Kilrush Town Council is offering two hours free parking as an incentive to spend money in local shops, and together with Christmas lights and other attractions, businesses say they’re optimistic that this December’s trade will be better than last year. And in lighthearted mood – the panel also asked why is it that the Christmas box of chocolates seems smaller and smaller each year?
Hermitage Green, made up of Darragh Graham, Darragh Griffin, Barry Murphy & Dan Murphy and Dermot Sheedy were guests of the show. Famed for their energetic live performances, Hermitage Green have hit the music scene with a bang. Following two sold out shows in Whelan’s last October (where they recorded their debut, independently released album ‘Live At Whelan’s’ which is out now) they’re riding high in the Irish Album charts at number 12. Hermitage Green have just been confirmed as special guests with The Pogues this month for their O2 Academy shows in Glasgow and London.
Stylist Tess Purcell was in studio with style advice and fashion tips for the most stylish time of year! She talked about embracing the bling, adding chunky glitzy jewellery to liven up that little black dress and also how to buy for the woman in your life!
Galway Singer Don Stiffe was also in studio for a chat. Don joins Sharon Shannon and Vinegar Bill tonight at the much anticipated Celebration of Christmas Concert at Shannon Airport. He talked about his career and what he’s up to for the New Year.
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