EP22:💥EMERGENCY PODCAST💥 LET THE KIDS PLAY ⚽️

This is an emergency podcast, as I wanted to raise awareness of the seriousness of the subject matter.  We all know and recognise that the pandemic has caused all kinds of pain and anxiety across society, but one demographic who continues to suffer disproportionately one might argue, by decisions being made on their behalf, without any evidence supporting such decisions, is that of our children. (who don't have a voice) In November 2020, Co.Derry based Criminal lawyer Mr Stephen Atherton launched a legal case in the High Court against the Department of Health, on the basis that the decision to ban all outdoor sport for children was wrong and illegal.   In the last two weeks myself along with 50 other sports people from NI signed a letter to support this initiative, which has went to the NI executive.  Local journalist Brendan Crossan and All Ireland Winning Footballer Aidan O Rourke, have been with Stephen in this campaign from the off, and they are all trying to get this decision overturned. In this show, I have a terrific conversation with Stephen, who sets out all of the arguments he has made, and will be making to the court, at the hearing scheduled for the 18th March 2021. I get that all of this is complicated, but if we are designing public policy around this pandemic, and our politicians want to take people with them, who buy into the arguments and policies for such strict measures and restrictions, then surely one is right and just to request the evidence, that would support the introduction of said measures.  The problem for the Department of Health is that they are yet to present any evidence whatsoever, that by children playing outdoor sports, has contributed in any way to the spread of COVID19.  Therein is a problem!! Before my conversation with Stephen, I welcome two very special guests onto Money and Plants in the form of my own two kids, Lilyanna and Conor Junior. I thought it would be interesting to hear from the kids at this juncture, as to how they have been feeling about not getting to play their sports, meet up with their team mates, and what impact this pandemic is having on them.  Finally the call to action here is important.   If you agree with Stephen and this initiative, then contact your local MLA, send them an email, phone or text their office and let them know you want your kids outdoor sports to be returned in a managed and controlled way immediately.  I support the guys and wish them all well with this.  If you would like to contact me about any of this, or any other matter, you can at [email protected] If you enjoyed the show, please let me know:) - and maybe you would be able to leave me a quick review, wherever you get your podcasts.   I would appreciate it.  I look forward to producing many more interesting shows over the course of 2021. Take care,  Conor ☘