We opened this morning's show with Census results. Clare's population is growing, but at a slower rate than many other parts of the country. Preliminary results from this year's Census shows the county's population is up by 1,431 over the past five years. That's equivalent to growth 1.2% in that time, which is behind the national average of 3.7%. Igavin spoke with Neil Nugent of the CSO who told him how these statistics are based on preliminary figures.
Next, the Government has defended the €38 million cost of the Eircode location code system, which was introduced one year ago yesterday. Private freight companies have criticised the system as unsuitable while An Post says it is used by less than 5% of mail customers. A survey of freight and supermarket companies by consultants CBRE found that 96% do not use Eircode and 83% do not expect to see any gain from it. The Department of Communications, however, argues that the system has proven to be invaluable in directing emergency services in rural areas as well as being used by a range of Government departments. Alan Dignam, Eircode Commercial Manager, was on the line to tell Gavin that the process takes time.
Then we turned our attention to the horrific events unfolding in France. A truck ploughed through a crowd in the South of France yesterday evening as they celebrated the country's national holiday- Bastille Day. Onlookers describe how the truck travelled for more than a mile, before the driver got out and started shooting. Security Analyst, Declan Power, joined Gavin on the line to give his reaction to the tragedy.
Just before the 10 o'clock news we previewed the All-Ireland Football Championship Round 3A Qualifier that sees Clare take on Sligo in Markievicz Park, Sligo, at 2.00pm. Joe Garry took a call to give us his prediction for the game.
After the news it was time for our Friday Panel. Gearoid Howard, Crimmins Howard Solicitors, Shannon Patricia Mc Carthy, former Clare Councillor, Shannon and Brian Meaney, former member of Clare County Council joined Gavin in studio to discuss the events in Nice, Commercial Vacancy Rates in Clare, Eircode and figures that show crime is down in Clare.
Finally today we checked out a number of upcoming weekend events. It'll be all eyes to the skies this Sunday as the 3rd Foynes Air Show takes place over the Shannon Estuary. The free event has 26 aircraft taking part from across Ireland and the UK. Entertainment kicks off at 12:30 with the first planes taking to the skies at 3. Harry Humphreys, the youngest display pilot (22), took a call from Gavin.
Marion Tracey, Chair of S.P.C.C. was on to tell us that This Sunday the Spanish Point Community Group are hosting a Spanish – Portuguese Fiesta at the Armada Hotel Hotel. Starting at 7:30, the inaugural event aims to tighten the links between West Clare, Spain and Portugal through a night of tapas, tunes and fun.
Charity fitness classes are taking place at the Fairgreen in aid of Kilnamona Cancer Centre. Run by qualified personal trainer, Seosamh O'Loughlin, classes will take place each Saturday of the summer to raise money for a range of charities.
A general sports table quiz takes place tonight, Friday in the Windswept Inn in Tulla, getting underway at 9:00. This is raising funds ahead ofthe Matty Corry Memorial Weekend which will be supporting Raheen Hospital, Tuamgraney and The Children's Ark Ward at Limerick Regional Hospital.
Clare Vintage and Engine Association are holding a Traditional Music Session on Friday July 15th and a Vintage Tractor Run on Sunday July 17th. Both the Tractor Run and Trad Music Session will raise much needed funds for both The Childrens Ark, University Hospital Limerick, and Temple Street Children's Hospital Dublin. The aim of both of these charities is to help sick children by making their stay in hospital less distressing for both themselves and their families, by funding the purchase of medical equipment and developing new services. The Traditional Music Session in the Pump House, Kilmurry on Friday night 15th July, 2016 starting at 7.30pm for all musicians young and old, regardless of age or musical ability. Raffle and Refreshments on the night.The Tractor Run will take place in Sixmilebridge starting at 12 noon, taking in surrounding areas and refreshments will be provided en route.
