On today's edition of Morning Focus with John Cooke
Following the Fine Gael Conference held in Taoiseach Enda Kenny's home town of Castlebar Co. Mayo over the week. The economy, the health crisis, and the next general Election were all up for discussion. Fine Gael Clare TD Pat Breen joined John in Studio to discuss the goings on at the weekend's conference.
A new campaign to combat livestock theft was launched on Friday. It follows a significant rise in the number of animal thefts from farms across the country. Members of the Gardaí, Crimestoppers and the Irish Farmers Association have joined forces to launch a new national campaign aimed at reducing animal thefts from farms around Ireland. Andrew Dundass is the Clare Chairperson IFA and Cian Connaughton, a Spokesperson for Crimestoppers both spoke about the launch of the new confidential hotline for every citizen to report a crime without fear of recrimination and the award incentive linked, an award of €10,000 for significant information.
Anthony Flannery is a Farmer from Quin who was twice targeted by thieves. He lost 5 animals when they were taken from a shed in Quin in 2012. He was targeted again in 2013 where a number of his animals were taken. Caller Noel O Driscoll is a Farmer from Barefield he got in touch to share his story. In March 2013 Noel had a pedigree bull stolen from his farm – it was a prized animal worth a significant amount of money.Both Anthony and Noel welcome the launch of the new hotline and reward incentive although don't feel too confident about its impact after their experiences.
The Adult learners Festival is a nationwide celebration of Adult Learning coordinated by AONTAS – the voice of Adult Learning. There will be a number of events held around the county between 23rd and the 28th February. The aim of this week is to highlight the value of Adult learning and encourage people in the community to come and enjoy some one off sessions to see what’s on offer. All events will be free to attend. Loretta Hughes the Adult Literacy Organiser, Adult Education Centre Ennis joined us in studio to tell us more about the events.
Kathryn Byrne is a Kilbaha resident who, three years ago re-entered the education system as an adult learner. She told us about her experience thus far and how she would recommend adult education to anyone despite their abilities or previous education. For more information on Adult Learners Week call, 065 6824819
In our regular Garda Focus slot we were joined by Ennis Garda Denis Collins who was appealing for your help in solving recent local crime.
Derek Lynch of Clare FM’s Sport and Brid McNamara, Clare Camogie Board PRO, both joined John in studio following their wins at the Camogie Association Media Awards at the weekend.
Clare FM has been recognised as Ireland’s “Best Local Radio Station” with an award from the National Camogie Association. It is the 4th time the station has received the honour with specific reference to the coverage of the Clare Camogie’s game which saw them reach the All Ireland Quarter Final. While Brid McNamara won for “Best Use of Social Media”.
Austin Cooney, Wildlife Expert from the Clare branch Birdwatch Ireland joined us in studio.
Today's Topics:
• Report from the Birdwatching Ireland event in Seafield Quilty on Saturday
• There has been an increase in temperature recently resulting in frog spawn activity
If you would like to contact Morning Focus – email focus@clare.fm
