On Thursdays Morning Focus John began by remembering former Taoiseach Albert Reynolds. He died at the age of 81 over night. A native of Co. Roscommon, he'll be remembered for the instrumental part he played in restoring peace to Northern Ireland. He served as Taoiseach for just under three years. John spoke to several people while remember him including Brendan Daly – Former Clare Fianna Fail TD, Minister and Senator, Tony Killeen – Former Clare Fianna Fail TD and Minister, James Breen – Clare Cllr, former Clare Independent TD. All 3 spoke about their memories of the former Taoiseach. Clare FM producer Amy Ryan also looked back at the life and Times of Albert Reynolds.
A man has died following an incident involving lorry and trailer in Liscannor. The man who was 38 suffered a head injury when fitting a wheel on the trailer at about 7.30 yesterday evening. He was air lifted to University Hospital Galway were he is described as being in a very serious condition. The Health and Safety Authority and Ennistymon Gardaí are investigating the incident. John spoke to Mattie Shannon Irish Coast Guard Area Officer about the tragic incident.
Following the introduction of new Novice "N" Plates for newly qualified drivers, John spoke to Ennis Driving Instructor Don Barrett who felt the new measures need to go further, as much of the dangerous driving and bad behaviour on our roads is caused by those who've been driving for many years, but ignoring some basic rules of the road. During the discussion, listeners reported drivers talking on phones, doing their hair and make-up and failing to use proper signals on the roads, if any, and John promised to join Don for an inspection of driver's behaviour around Ennis. John met him for a trip 'round town this week and we heard the result.
Hundreds of people are set gather in Ennis over the next few days for the National Pony and Young Rider Championships 2014. The National Pony and Young Rider National Championship will take place at the Ennis Showground's from Thursday 21st August to Sunday 24th August 2014. Clare riders are set to among those that are favourite to win. John spoke to Michael Blake – National Young Rider Chairman to find out more.
Finally it's that time of year again as the The 20th Annual Dan Furey Weekend 2014 kicks off in Labasheeda tomorrow. The festival runs from the 22nd of August – 24th. There will be Set & Step-dancing, sessions, a parade and lots of craic agus ceoil. John was joined in studio by Liam Wolfe – Organiser of Dan Furey Weekend 2014, Niamh Casey – Fiddle player and Sorcha Curtin – Concertina player, for a chat and a song
If you have a story, comment or query for Morning Focus email [email protected] or write to us – Morning Focus, Clare FM, Francis Street, Ennis, Co. Clare.
