The show opened by discussing workers' pay in the country. We're often told that Ireland's an expensive place to live, but now it's claimed that we're living in a low-wage economy too. The Unite Trade Union has published a report called the truth about Irish wages. It states that 23% of all employees are low-paid, and that we have one of the lowest levels of average pay among the 15 original EU member states. The figures are based on pre-tax income, and things look better when net income is considered but the union says this ignores the better health and childcare services given to people in other EU countries. The Unite Union's regional secretary is Jimmy Kellyand he spoke to Gavin.
Next we heard how Orkambi was found to be too expensive. A new €160,000 drug that cystic fibrosis (CF) campaigners have described as a “game-changer” has been rejected for Irish patients on cost effectiveness grounds. Cystic Fibrosis Ireland said patients were dismayed by the recommendation against reimbursing the cost of the drug, Orkambi. The recommendation by the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics recommends that Orkambi should not be funded “at submitted cost” though it recognises the health benefits provided by the drug. CF Ireland said the recommendation opens the door to further price negotiations with the manufacturer, Vertex Pharmaceuticals. Terri Golden comes from Sligo. Her daughter Grainne passed away in February at the age of 21, having battled CF throughout her life. Grainne has strong family links to West Clare, and urged her family to fight for Orkambi to be approved before she died. Terri and Grainne's sister Aisling told Gavin of their dismay at the decision.
Sixmilebridge Councillor, John Crowe has told the Oireachtas Committee on Housing and Homelessness that local authorities needed support to deal with the homelessness crisis. Cllr Crowe, President of the Assocaition of Irish Local Government, called the crisis “the biggest housing crisis in the history of the country.” He was on the line to tell Gavin more.
After the news Dr. Maire Finn was in studio for our weekly Ask the GP slot. She talked about stayiong safe in the sun and she answered listeners questions.
When we go through tough times, little things like talking about our problems, getting regular exercise, drinking less alcohol and being involved in activities we enjoy can make a big difference to how we feel. Find the little things that work for you at yourmentalhealth.ie” For Clare FM, Sile Seoighe has been speaking with Ciarán Lynch, a Clinical Nurse Manager with the HSE, based in Galway. He’s been outlining what they’ve been doing there to promote positive mental health.
Michelle Flannery from Busy Bee Garden Centre and Tea Rooms, Clondrinagh was on the line to give us tips for gardening in the hot weather.
Then we heard about a Baby and Toddler Event in Miltown Malbay. Tomorrow morning Jones SuperValu, Miltown Malbay, will host a free Baby and Toddler Event between 10 am to 2 pm. Therapists from around Clare will be on hand to discuss Craniosacral Therapy, Play Therapy, baby massage and acupuncture. There will also be expert advice on Car Seat & Fitting, with a range of car seats, buggies and nursery items from World of wonder Nursery. Organiser Claire Jones was on the line with more details.
This Saturday sees a rally in Dublin at which organisers are calling on people to 'Celebrate the Eighth' amendment of the Constitution. It's claimed there will be a large crowd in attendance at the event, including some from Clare. They'll include Enniswoman Josephine McEvoy who told Gavin why the issue is so important for her.
Over the next few days, members of South Dublin GAA club, Kilmacud Crokes, are cycling from Mizen to Malin to raise money for the club and for Breast Caner Ireland. They'll be staying in Ennistymon on Friday night, where they'll be midway through their trip. The group is aiming to surpass the €80,000 they raised last year and hopefully break the 6 figure mark. Paul Gallagher, who lost his wife Marie to breast cancer, is taking part in the cycle and he joined Gavin on the line.
Next we heard about an event bringing Nigerian Culture to Ennis. This Saturday there'll be a taste of Africa at the Holy Family School, Ennis. The Ankara Carnival aims to promote the culture and heritage of Ennis town's strong Nigerian community. Hosted by the Association for Nigerian community in Clare, there'll be Nigerian artists, musicians and a display of cultural items and instruments. Abi Ladigbolu, Femi Adesiyan and Sainab were in studio to tell Gavin about their experiences living in Ennis and why they want to share their herritage.
Finally today we heard how to go about sharing a bite with you neighbour. On Sunday, June 12th, people across the country will gather together in streets, parks and gardens to enjoy lunch with their neighbours. It's the 11th annual year of Street Feast, a not-for-profit, all-for-fun, do-it-yourself celebration. It's the perfect excuse to eat great food, celebrate your local community and meet new people who live near you. Sam Bishop – Founder and Organiser of Street Feast and Adrienne Mannix – Organiser of Aiden Park, Shannon, Street Feast told Gavin more.
