Morning Focus began with a look at communities around the country, who've been hit by flooding – including those here in Clare – who will have an opportunity to hear first-hand from the Minister responsible for handling the issue at national conference this weekend (Sat., Oct. 15). Minister of State Seán Canney will be among a number of high-profile contributors to a conference organised by the voluntary group the Irish National Flood Forum (INFF). Other speakers will include expert hydrologists, representatives of the OPW and community groups affected. The INFF says it's particularly worried about rising water levels on the River Shannon. They're also concerned about ongoing difficulties in securing insurance following flooding and remedial works. Jer Buckley PRO, INFF joined Gavin on the line.
Getting more reactions to Budget 2017, which as we now know, included a widely-leaked scheme for first time buyers. A tax back of up to 20,000 euro that can be counted towards a deposit in getting a mortgage will be available for new builds only for a period of three years. While the government says believes this will kickstart construction, there's been some criticism of the fact the scheme doesn't extend to those buying second-hand homes. To assess the possible impact of the initiative on the local property market, Gavin was joined by Douglas Hurley of DNG O'Sullivan Hurley.
Budget 2017 reactions
* Farming – Willie Hanrahan, Clare Chair IFA
* The hospitality sector – Michael Vaughan, former President of IHG To gauge the view of the hospitality sector on Budget 2017, Clare FM's Fiona McGarry spoke to Lahinch hotelier and former President of the Irish Hotels Federation, Michael Vaughan. She asked him first for his overall appraisal of the Budget.
* Older people – Mary Morrissey, Clarecastle Day Care Centre We've had several calls this morning from pensioners who're to receive an extra 5 euros per week under the provisions of Budget 2017. It's safe to say, there's been a mixed reaction on that score. To gauge the impact of the budget on the older generation our researcher Michael Glynn spoke to Mary Morrissey from Clarecastle Day Care Centre. He began by asking her if she thought the Budget was fair.
Gavin then got another Budget 2017 reaction from Dep Alan Kelly Tipperary TD & Labour Party Health Spokesperson.
We then had our weekly Ask the GP section with local Ennis doctor Dr Máire Finn.
We then had a West Clare man share his own personal struggles with mental health.
So right now we are in the midst of National Bread Week which began last Monday and finishes this Saturday (Oct. 15). Joining me live now in studio to discuss all matters bread related are Ann-Marie O’Connor, Director O’Connor’s Bakery, qualified baker and confectionery and Geraldine Gregan, Food scientist, food safety specialist.
Congratulations were in order today for a Scariff based organisation. Irish Seed Savers have just won first prize in the Irish Food Writers’ Guild for their work in conserving and distributing rare and heritage seed varieties. They also encourage others to learn the skills of saving your own seed and empowering others to do this in their own gardens or farms. I’m joined on the line now by Barry from Irish Seed Savers, Sales and Development.
Usually, every Wednesday, vet, John Underhill provides our listeners with invaluable knowledge and advice. This week instead of John coming into the studio, Clare FM’S Siofra Mulqueen shadowed his jam packed working day around the Burren. She learnt that John’s day is not for the faint hearted as it varies from cleaning dogs’ ears to avoiding hungry vultures while micro-chipping eagles.
To finish up the show we took a look at Clare Youth Services. From guitar workshops to classes in cup-cake design, there's something for everyone at Clare Youth Service. The organisation has two centres in Ennis and reaches teens across the county from facilities in Kilrush and Shannon, as well as a network of youth clubs. With training courses and the Leaving Cert Applied course also being offered, the service is decidated to helping young people reach their full potential. If you, or someone you know, would like to find out more, there's an open day on Saturday next (Oct. 15). It takes place between 3 and 5pm at the Carmody Street centre in Ennis, and anyone aged 12-18 is invited to sample the activities on offer. Jean Tierney Youth Work Manager, Clare Youth Service joined Gavin on the line.
