On Tuesday’s Morning Focus Ennis West Councillor James Breen called for a change in the law to allow human burials take place on farms or land other than cemeteries
He would like the Environment Minister to allow a farmer or landowner and their families to be buried on their own land, if they so wish
It’s an issue he raised many years ago, and feels there’s a real need now for alternatives to conventional graveyards to allow personal choice
John Cooke also spoke with Judith Hoad in Donegal
Judith made headlines in 1999 when she buried her husband’s body in their garden in Donegal
She and her husband, Jeremiah, had discussed his views and had sought permission from Donegal County Council to see how they could go about a home burial
While there are about 200 natural burial grounds in the UK, the notion is in its infancy here and is permitted at the discretion of the local authority
Judith helped organise the Bury Me Green Conference and provides advice, supplies and services for those interested in alternative burial
She is a herbalist, writer and activist
Over 40 years ago she and her husband decided to ‘live off the grid’- into renewable energy and green living
Judith offers Home and Hearth-Side Skills and Living Earth Apprenticeship workshops at her self sufficient home in Donegal and is a popular speaker at events throughout Ireland
Gill Moses in Feakle spoke with John in the past about her wish to set up a natural burial ground in Clare. She gave her reaction to Councillor Breen’s idea. She has set up a website- see www.gravesmatter.ie
‘Marie’ is a client of Clare Haven Services – one of the four local charities to benefit from Clare FM’s 50 Cent Appeal
She told her story of abuse and violence and how she got the help s he needed from Clare Haven
Denis Dunne of Clare Haven Service gave advice and contact details to anyone affected by Marie’s story
To speak with someone contact Clare Haven’s 24 Hour Confidential Helpline 065-6822435
If you have any questions or would like to speak with a Clare Haven Services representative regarding any matters dealing with domestic violence, please don’t hesitate to e-mail clientcare@clarehaven.ie or call 065-6822435 for a completely confidential discussion
Gearoid Howard of Crimmins Howard Solicitors, Shannon and volunteer with the Clare Citizens’ Information Service Free Legal Advice Clinic joined John to discuss fatal injury accidents and how they are dealt with by the Courts
‘Promoting Wellness and Building Resilience Workshop’ – a mental health event will take place tomorrow at 7-9pm in the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis and is open to anyone feeling stressed, pressurised and suffering from anxiety
Supported by the Clare Mental Health Association, Community Reconnect and recovery Network and WRAP Ireland
Marie Molloy of the Ennis Mental Health Association and Clare Project Coordinator with The Community Reconnect & Recovery Network Liam Minogue joined John in studio. Contact Marie on 087 2258389 or Liam on 085 8267778.
Clare FM’s Maire Moynahan and Paul Moriarty had an update on fundraising in Clare Fm’s 50 Cent Appeal
Also they wish to highlight the Clare FM events that are coming up, to stress the need for the community groups and schools to get involved and say thanks to all who have donated so far
Clare ISPCA Warden Frankie Coote joined John in studio for his weekly slot where he advises animal owners on their legal obligations and the proper care of animals
Today Frankie discussed 6 pups that were dumped in Cratloe- grey hound cross breeds – they saved one pup but sadly five others died
Also, he advised on what you should do if you see stray horses on the road, and who to report it to
Contact Frankie on 087 622 5253.
Get in touch with the Morning Focus team by emailing Focus@clare.fm or drop us a line to Clare FM, Francis Street, Ennis, Clare.
