We opened this morning by hearing about high costs endured by SMEs. On yesterday's program, we heard from the Unite Trade Union following their report into low wages. Their Regional Secretary Jimmy Kelly told us of their findings, and how wages here compare with other EU countries PLAY CLIP This morning, we wanted to get employers' reaction. Mark Fielding is with ISME, who represent small and medium businesses. ISME argue that high business costs are hampering jobs growth and have advised employers to "stand firm" on wage claims. Mark Fielding from ISME was on the line breakdown some of these costs.
Next we heard about Syrian Refugee resettlement. The first group of families from Syria will arrive in Shannon and Sixmilebridge this month. Clare County Council has confirmed that 100 people in total will be relocated in the county as part of government efforts to help ease the European refugee crisis. Nine families are arriving in the coming weeks, while a further 50 people will be relocated to an area of the county yet to be confirmed, later this year. The local authority is using its own funds to purchase nine homes in Shannon and Sixmilebridge to provide accomodation for the families Leonard Cleary, Acting director of Housing, Community and tourism for Clare County Council was in studio to discuss the issue with Gavin.
Gardaí are to enforce a weight restriction on a bridge near Clarecastle, as Clare County Council warns that they could be forced to close it altogether. Structural issues at Latoon Creek Bridge, which is on the old N18, mean that a 3.5 tonne weight limit has been imposed there since late last year. However, Council officials estimate that this is being flouted by up to 400 vehicles a day, and say they will have no option but to close the bridge to all traffic unless this stops. Paul Murphy, Clarecastle Councillor, FG, outlined the current situation to Gavin.
Then we turned to a charity drive: Hair Today Gone Tomorrow. This weekend a young woman from Lahinch is lopping her locks for a good cause. Catherine Hayes is preparing to cut off her long hair to raise money for MS Ireland. She has a personal interest in the cause; her mother has been living with MS for 14 years. Catherine was in studio to tell Gavin more.
After the 10 o'clock news Derrick Lynch, Clare FM Sports, was in studio with Gavin to preview the big game this weekend, Clare versus Waterford.
Then we had the last of our weekly Little Things packages. 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, Síle Seoige spoke with Colin Regan a GAA Community and Health Manager.
Then Siobhan Mulcahy, Clare County Arts Officer, was in for the weekly Arts Round-Up.
On our Weekend Events section Caroline Kennedy filled us in on the International Jazz Festival which takes place all weekend (Friday 3rd until Monday 6th). There'll be acts from Germany, USA, Scotalnd and all over Ireland.
We heard from Padraigh “Podge” Murphy about the Seeking Vision – 55km Cycle for Charity. Sean Kelly will be along for the ride which starts at the Hub, Clonroad Beg, Ennis at 10 o'clock on Sunday, June 5th.
And Maurice Harvey gave us details of the North West Clare Agricultural Show which takes place in Ennistymon on Sunday, June 5th. I [2nd speaker available if required] *** Mention *** Bishop Willie Walsh – 2nd launch of 'No Crusader' at Ennis Bookshop on Saturday, June 4 at 12pm. 087 1427793 [Pat Murphy 065 6824875] 065 7071145 / 0868078814 065 9055039
On the Friday Panel Tony Killeen – Former Clare Minister and TD, FF, Kilnaboy; Patrick O'Neill – Film Producer; and Michael Vaughan – Lahinch Hotelier and Former President of the IHF were in studio to discuss Donald Trumps Clare visit, Syrian Refugees Resettlement, Cystic Fibrosis Drug costs, Wages in the country and Nude Beaches!
Finally today we heard who won our Unsung GAA hero Competition. With thank to the Irish Examiner, Barry McGorary's efforts at Corofin Football Club won the club €500. Barry himself and John Fogarty from the Irish Examiner spoke to Gavin.
