The Nevin Economic Research Institute have launched their latest commentary on the Irish Economy
Their economic outlook for both parts of the island of Ireland is positive but cautious
In 2013 they expect the year to record a notable increase of 2.3% in employment; an increase that we anticipate is partially related to the re-emergence of activity in a number of labour intensive industries
On Thursday’s Morning Focus John Cooke spoke with Dr Micheál Collins, Senior Research Officer with NERI to get the details.
The Health Service Executive will today meet with the chairmen of the country’s voluntary hospitals, in a bid to regulate the sector
The HSE will be given until the end of the year to comply with a set of guidelines on tax, pay, finance and internal systems
John got the details from Paul Hosford, Reporter with The Journal.ie
Continuing with our ‘shop local’ push this week we checked in on Shannon town
John spoke with Pat Kelly, Manager of the Skycourt Shopping Centre
Pat said that this year they have Santa everyday – for free! They are inviting parents to take photos on their own phones
He added that a new retailer has attracted lots of people into the centre.
The GAA is challenging its members and the public to stay ‘Off the Booze & On the Ball’ and abstain from alcohol for four weeks to give their New Year a healthy kick-start
This is driven by the GAA’s ASAP programme, ‘The Challenge’ offers participants the opportunity to press pause following the hectic social calendar of the holiday season
For some clubs, The Challenge is also used as an opportunity to fundraise in a fun and healthy way -everyone who registers receives an information pack with practical tips on how to implement a healthier lifestyle as well as a sponsorship card
Colin Regan, Community Health Manager with the GAA spoke from GAA HQ and Des Crowe and Sean Chaplin, Community Development Officer joined John in studio.
The transition year students at St Joseph’s Secondary School in Tulla are launching their book ‘Then and Now’ tomorrow
It’s an intergenerational programme for TY that saw twenty students interviewing 15 adults (71- 91 years of age from the surrounding areas)
Its a 60 page production covering topics from memories of school from the 1930’s to school in the 1990’s
Siobhan O’Sullivan – teacher at St. Joseph’s described it as a nostalgic read covering a multitude of topics.
John Underhill of Burren Vets joined John in studio to answer listeners’ queries.
If you have a story for Morning Focus email Focus@clare.fm
