This week, a group of Catholic priests called for greater equality for women. A number of members of the Association of Catholic Priests issued a statement saying the Church should lead the way on the issue. Gavin was joined by Fr Tony Flannery and Kathleen McDonnell from Cross.
With Christmas on the horizon, we learned that Irish shoppers were anticipating bargains in 'Black Friday' and 'Cyber Monday' sales. Consumers are spending more now than they have in several years, but most are still not prepared to pay full price and are seeking bargains, according to retail experts. Retail Excellence Ireland, based in Ennis, is urging the thousands of stores it represents to make sure their special offers, websites and delivery systems are ready for the coming weeks. Gavin heard more from David Fitzsimons, CEO if Retail Excellence Ireland.
Following incidents of illegal dumping around Clare, Gavin was joined in studio by Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer with Clare County Council.
Morning Focus also heard about a project to explore the sinking of two Spanish Armada Galleons on the west coast of Ireland. Those involved revealed they found a possible mass grave near Spanish Point. In July 2015 the San Marcos Project and Rubicon Heritage Services Ltd conducted a geophysical survey at the site of Tuama Na Spainneach, Spanish Point, and the report was published this week. The survey, which was financially supported by the Heritage Council, was aimed at identifying possible targets which may represent the buried remains of those lost on the San Marcos and San Esteban when both vessels foundered off-shore in September 1588. The Tuama itself is a low mound which local folklore identifies as the grave site of the Armada victims. Gavin spoke to John Treacy of Spanish Point.
Gavin read a letter from woman recently diagnosed with breast cancer. He then spoke to Nessa Sexton, a breast cancer survivor. Nessa was also diagnosed through BreastCheck, and is now a fundraiser with Slainte an Chlair.
As the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA) got ready to launch it’s Angels Campaign, Gavin was joined in studio by Johnny Crawford of the IWA in Ennis. This year, IWA announced three new Angels Pins, a Swimming Angel, a Rugby Player Angel, and a Handcyclist Angel will be added to the collection this year. The sports theme marks the advent of the Paralympic Year.
For some light entertainment, members of Corofin Drama Group performed an extract from ‘The Last Panto in Little Grimley’. Gavin was joined in studio by Eileen Lahiff (director), James Rahilly (actor) and Brenda O'Reilly (actor).
