Thursday’s Morning Focus broadcasted live from the Killaloe library as part of Clare FM’s Summer Tour.

Alan Morrissey kicked off the show with his first guest, Brian McCarthy, Senior Planner and Coordinator with the Killaloe Municipal District. Brian provided an overview of the district, explaining how the Killaloe MD operates.

Fresh doubt has been cast on the project as the Friends of the Irish Environment launched a new High Court challenge over the wastewater connection granted by Uisce Éireann. Ennis Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Daly shared his view that the challenge should be dismissed, while environmental activist Tony Lowes, one of the directors of the Friends of the Irish Environment, joined Alan Morrissey for a further discussion.

Local heritage was celebrated with Arlene White, Chair of the Killaloe-Ballina Local History Society. Alan highlighted tourism in the area with Margaret O’Donnell from the Killaloe Tourist Office.

A meeting took place between the Midwest couple Melanie and Barry Cleary and the Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, six years after the tragic death of their daughter, Eve. Melanie Cleary spoke with Alan about the meeting.

Jessica O’Keeffe from Clare Sports Partnership outlined the upcoming Clare Outdoor Recreation Plan and opportunities for local clubs, trails, and water-based activities. While, Aldo Andreucetti from Clare County Council spoke about the Fáilte Ireland Platforms for Growth sports activity facility in Ballycuggaran. 

Paddy Collins from Ballina Riverside Pool also joined the show.

Local business voices included Cathal Quin of Flanagan’s on the Lake, Ballina and Catriona Devereux, owner of Mother Goose Creche, with Margaret Coleman, in-house chef.

Alan also welcomed traditional Irish singer Deirdre Scanlan, who performed live and shared stories from her career as an All-Ireland champion and international performer.

The Clare Women in Business segment featured Pat Flynn visiting Tubber to meet Niamh Baker, co-owner of the Burren Inn, discussing her entrepreneurial journey.