The midweek edition of Morning Focus was a lively mix of current affairs, local debate and tributes to the late RTÉ legend, Jimmy Magee.
The show opened with a discussion about the future of rail services in Clare. It was prompted by concerns from Cllr Mary Howard about changes to the ticketing system at Ennis Train Station. Iarnród Éireann’s Barry Kenny joined the discussion, outlining national changes to ticketing systems by the company.
Doonbeg farmer, John Flanagan was Gavin’s next guest. He said that despite the findings of a major poll of farmers, he believes that Donald Trump would be welcome if he were to visit his golf resort in Doonbeg.
Now, a little later today, they’ll be lining up in their shiny new shoes, filing back through the gates, finding their desks and settling into the new term. You guessed it – our TDs are back and the new Dáil term begins.
While they may not be carrying schoolbags, they’ve still got a weight on their shoulders with tricky and divisive issues including abortion, drink driving and Garda scandals to be tackled. They’ve also got to pass the Budget, sort out the housing crisis and fix our health system. And that’s before you consider the prospect of Brexit and the possibility of a General Election on the horizon. It’s almost enough to send them running back to bed. To get a preview of what lies ahead for our national politicians, Gavin was joined on the line by Niall O’Connor, Political Correspondent with the Irish Independent.
After the break, Gavin spoke with Sherry Perreault, the new Head of Lobbying Regulation. She explained why some businesses and voluntary organisations may need to register their communications with public representatives.
Patrick Stack was Gavin’s next guest. The Kilmaley resident recently spoke to The Irish Times about his experience of burnout and recovery.
On the same theme, Gavin was then joined by psychologist Eddie Murphy who is to address a seminar for Shannon Chamber of Commerce tomorrow (Thurs Sept 21) at the Oakwood Arms Hotel.
The topic then turned to an event in Ogonnelloe this Sunday (Sept 24) to celebrate the humble spud. The event is entitled Síol Heritage Harvest Gathering and it takes place from 11am at the Anna Carriga Pavilion. The event was funded by Creative Ireland. Gavin spoke with local horticulturalist and artist, Ian Castles. Listen back below:
With news breaking of the death of the legendary RTÉ sports broadcaster, Jimmy Magee, Gavin was joined on the line by a friend and colleague, Marty Morrissey. Listen back below:
Mark Brodeur, Director of Tourism in Rhode Island, was Gavin’s next guest. He was part of a delegation who visited Clare this week to promote business, trade and tourism links between the two regions. Listen back below:
Volunteers are often our unsung heroes and Sharon Meaney joined Gavin in studio to outline how they can be nominated for the annual Volunteer Ireland Awards. Applications are being accepted up to October 6. Nomination forms are available online here. You can listen back to Sharon’s interview below:
