On Wednesday's edition of Morning Focus with John Cooke
Ennis native, Micheàl Collins Economist and Senior Researcher Nevin Economic Research Institute spoke to us following the Spring Economic Statement announcement. The coalition's set out its stall for re-election with a promise of tax cuts and increased spending on services every year up to 20-20. Finance Minister Michael Noonan's revealed there will be around 1.5 billion available in advance of the budget – and each year after that. While Public Expenditure Minister Brendan Howlin's also secured Cabinet approval to enter talks to reverse the public sector pay and pension cuts.
RTE News Anchor and lighthouse enthusiast, Anne Doyle joined Councillor John Crowe, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, in launching Loop Head Lighthouse's 2015 tourist season. The historic Loop Head Lighthouse commenced its 5th year of operations when it reopened to the public on 03 April. The 19th century West Clare landmark will be looking to capitalise on its designation as a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way and further promote the economic development of the Loop Head peninsula. Anne joined John in studio before making her trip west to Loop Head.
Arthritis Ireland’s Clare Branch is delighted to host an exciting information event with one of Ireland’s top Orthopaedic Surgeons, Eric Masterson. This free event took place tonight at 7.30pm at the Treacys West County Hotel, Ennis. Arthritis is the single biggest cause of disability in Co. Clare, affecting around 23,000 people from from newborn babies right through to the elderly. Professor. Eric Masterson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon UHL and ROH Croom, spoke to us ahead of the seminar.
Kim Hennessy, Ennis, sister of Melanie who is currently in Talamarang a little village outside of Nepal capital, Kathmandu with her team and children from the orphanage she has founded there – Thankfully, they are all okay but are in real need of funds for food and water – below is Melaine's charity page – you can find out more about how to help a very worthy cause! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dra%C3%ADocht-Nuig/799652223446158
Irish mountaineer and trekking leader Ian Taylor,who was leading an international group to Island Peak and Everest base camp, was in Kathmandu when the earthquake occurred. Mr Taylor, a former manager of Lahinch Seaworld, was on his 18th trip to the region which has been a popular destintion for Irish trekkers. This morning, we've been speaking with Ian Taylor, who's been forced to sleep in a tent since the earthquake hit on Saturday. Speaking via Skype, Ian began by telling Clare FM's Gavin Grace of how he was in his hotel in the capital Kathmandu when the quake struck.
Restoration of Garda Pay, the re-introduction of UZI Sub Machines Guns for front lines officers, and demands for great Garda recruitment levels are just some of the topics being raised by members of the Garda Representative Association at their annual conference which comes to an end in Carlow later today. Ennis Garda Paul Crowley is the GRA Central Executive Committee Member for Clare. He told John Cooke about the concerns of local Gardai.
Morning Focus Animal Matters next, with John Underhill of Burren Vets who today told us about pancreatic problems among cats and dogs especially, offered advice in treating these issues and also answered some of your pet queries
If you have a comment or query for Morning Focus – please email focus@clare.fm
