Clare FM - Podcasts

The European Central Bank has announced its first interest rate increase in almost three years, raising its benchmark rate as it seeks to tackle rising inflation across the eurozone.     The move comes amid growing concerns over the impact of the conflict in the Middle East on global energy prices and the wider economy, and it's a decision that will have real consequences for mortgage holders, savers and households already facing cost-of-living pressures.    To help us understand what this latest ECB decision means for Ireland, and what could lie ahead for borrowers and the wider economy, Alan Morrissey was joined by Ennis native and Assistant Professor of Social Policy at University College Dublin, Micheál Collins. Image (c) claudiodivizia via Canva

The planning stage for a long-awaited Ennis housing development has been completed. Ennis Municipal District has confirmed the Causeway Quarter project on Francis Street can now proceed to construction stage subject to funding. The 39-unit development had been held up due to the presence of an illegal encampment on the site. Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Daly, who requested an update on the project this week, says locals want to see progress.

A Clare TD fears artists in this county will inadvertently be discriminated against in the selection process of a Government support scheme. The 2026 to 2029 edition of the Basic Income for the Arts Scheme will provide €325 a week to 2,000 artists selected at random. A total of 54 Clare artists benefitted from the pilot version of the scheme introduced in 2022. Speaking in the Dáil, Bodyke Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney believes choose recipients through a random draw will produce an "urban-heavy result".

Shannon four-piece soft rock band Sinéad and The Bugs have released their first single, “Call It Happy Hour”. The band features Sinéad Walsh (vocals and guitar), Sam O'Malley (drums), Robert Park (bass), and Igor Zurakowaski (lead guitar). The track explores short-lived relationships and emotional “happy hour” moments, delivered through their signature storytelling style. Photo (c) Clare FM

A new community-led initiative aimed at restoring and protecting Clare's peatlands has been launched at The Common Knowledge Centre in Kilfenora. "Peatlands in Practice" will see ecologists, educators, cultural practitioners and local communities come together over the next six months through free tours, workshops and events focused on restoring bog habitats, preserving local heritage and tackling climate change. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Eco-system Restoration Lead, Ciara Parsons. Photo (c) Peatlands In Practice via Our Common Knowledge

The State Examinations Commission has apologised after an error was discovered in this year's Leaving Certificate Higher Level Biology paper. While teachers and students have generally described the exam as fair and accessible, a mistake in a genetics question caused confusion for some candidates. To discuss the paper, the SEC's response, what it means for students, and the Leaving Cert in general, Alan Morrissey was joined by Dan Sheedy, Principal of The Tuition Centre. Photo (c) Sengchoy Int via Canva

A unique evening of storytelling is coming to East Clare. Balor Otherworld will be bringing tales from the land, the old ways and beyond to Alfa Steiner Secondary School in East Clare on Saturday, June 13th. The evening promises stories inspired by Irish mythology and folklore, with themes of nature, imagination and the rich traditions of Ireland's Otherworld. Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to tell us more was storyteller Tommy Lanigan, A.K.A. Balor Otherworld.  Image (c) Tommy Lanigan

Ireland's largest inclusive sporting event is almost here, with more than 1,200 athletes from across the country preparing to compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games 2026 in Dublin from June 18th to 21st.   Among them will be athletes from County Clare's Shannon Flyers Special Olympics Sports Club, a volunteer-led club that provides year-round sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities.  Joining us today are Donagh Cronin, Chairperson of Shannon Flyers, along with two of the club's athletes who are looking forward to representing their club and county on the national stage.  Telling Alan Morrissey about their preparations for the Games, what Special Olympics means to them, and how the local community can support their journey, are Donagh Cronin, Chairperson of Shannon Flyers, and Lucy O Brien & Cormac Ross, two of their athletes. Photo (c) Clare FM

Concerns have been raised locally about the potential impact on sporting and recreational facilities at St Flannan's College if plans proceed to relocate St Joseph's Hospital onto lands associated with the college. A motion before this month's meeting of the Ennis Municipal District is calling for greater clarity, public engagement and assurances that important community amenities and sporting infrastructure will be protected. Joining Alan Morrissey to discuss the issue are Clare Colleran Molloy, the Ennis Fianna Fáil Councillor who submitted the motion, and the Clarecastle Sinn Fein Councillor, Tommy Guilfoyle. Photo (c) St. Flannan's College

Clare bodybuilders are working to revive Ireland's national bodybuilding federation, aiming to rebuild structure and support for athletes competing both at home and internationally. Among those leading the effort is Clare athlete Ewelina Hrynkiewicz, who recently returned from the European Championships with two silver medals. To reflect on competing at elite level, the challenges Irish bodybuilding has faced since the decline of the RIBBF, and why restoring a national federation is vital for the sport's future, Alan Morrissey was joined by Ewelina Hrynkiewicz-Kucybala, Shannon bodybuilder. Photo (c) Clare FM

The Summer Festival at Vandeleur Walled Garden is set to return to Kilrush from June 26th to 28th, promising three days of music, comedy, family entertainment and community celebration in one of Clare's most beautiful settings. This year's line-up features internationally acclaimed singer Brian Kennedy, the legendary Kilfenora Céilí Band, comedian Bernard Casey and a host of local favourites. To tell us more about what's in store, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sharon Malone, Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager with Clare Tourism Development DAC, and festival headliner Brian Kennedy. Image (c) Vandeleur Walled Garden via Facebook

Coastal erosion and rising sea levels are posing an increasing threat to communities around Ireland, and a new report from the University of Galway is warning that urgent action is needed. The study estimates that thousands of properties and hundreds of kilometres of roads are already at risk and calls for a national masterplan to help communities adapt to the challenges ahead. To discuss the findings and what they could mean for coastal areas in County Clare and beyond, Alan Morrissey was joined by Cillian Murphy, Kilkee resident and former Councillor. Photo (c) Clare FM

This weekend, County Clare will join communities across Europe in celebrating European Archaeology Days, a three-day event highlighting the importance of archaeology and heritage through walks, talks, exhibitions and hands-on activities. Taking place from June 12th to 14th, this year's programme has a particular focus on heritage at risk and encouraging young people to engage with the fascinating stories of our past. To tell us more about what's planned in Clare, Alan Morrissey was joined by Congella McGuire, Clare Heritage Officer, and Tori McMorran, Community Archaeologist. Photo (c) Clare Museum

An approved variation to Clare's County Development Plan is being hailed as a win for the county. The move sees an additional 250 acres of land zoned for housing countywide, while a further 350 acres of strategic residential reserve sites have been unlocked for immediate use. Questions have been raised over whether this will make any difference given Clare's serious wastewater deficits, with 50 towns and villages still without a sewerage connection. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan has been speaking to Planning Consultant and Clonlara Independent Councillor Michael Begley on the matter, but firstly, Kilmurry Fianna Fáil Cllr Alan O'Callaghan. Image (c) pixelshot via Canva

The Taoiseach has pledged to intervene on a West Clare's school bid to expedite an upgrade of its toilet facilities. It's after Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe raised the case of St Joseph's Secondary School in Spanish Point in the Dáil. It was claimed the school currently has 216 female students sharing just four cubicles between them and that a request to build an additional ten was approved by the Department five years ago, but has yet to be actioned. Taoiseach Micheál Martin says he wants to see the matter progressed.

On this week's Atlantic Tales, Pat Flynn meets some Clare people who are making new lives for themselves in the land down under. We'll hear from a few who left the Banner for a better life in ‘The Lucky Country', Australia.

On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined live in-studio once again by Tommy Corbett of Carey Corbett Financial Solutions. Tommy Corbett spoke about financial considerations for co-habiting couples when it comes to life insurance and pensions. Image (c) Clare FM

Residents of Doonbeg are being invited to help shape the future of their community through a new public consultation aimed at developing an ambitious five-year plan for the village. The survey is seeking ideas on social, economic and environmental initiatives that could make Doonbeg an even better place to live, work and socialise. To discuss the project and what it could mean for the area, Alan Morrissey joined by Fianna Fáil councillor Rita McInerney and Doonbeg resident Jennie Drysdale. Photo (c) Eddylandzaat via Wikipedia

In a relatively short time, The Nook & Hobby, located in Ennis, has become more than just a place to pick up the latest cards, miniatures, and dice. The shop, which opened at the beginning of May, has evolved into a gathering place for a growing community of players, hobbyists, and newcomers who share a passion for tabletop gaming. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Dan Slattery, the owner of the Nook & Hobby. Photo (c): Michael Kenny Visuals via The Nook & Hobby

With music, family fun and activities for all ages, Ruan Summer Fest has become a highlight of the August bank holiday weekend. Organised entirely by local volunteers, the festival is a true community effort, bringing people together from across the village and beyond. Gavin McGibley, committee chair, joined Alan Morrissey to discuss the star-studded line-up and activities planned for the weekend. Image (c) XL Ruan via Facebook

Family carers across Ireland are facing growing financial pressure, increasing isolation and significant challenges accessing essential services, according to a major new report published by Family Carers Ireland. The State of Caring 2026 report found that more than seven in ten carers are struggling to make ends meet, while almost half experience severe loneliness. Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to discuss the findings is Fiona Hartigan, Support Manager with Family Carers Ireland, and family carer Alexandra Knox, whose daughter has epilepsy and requires complex ongoing care. Photo (c) SolStock from Getty Images Signature via Canva

There's a call for action against Ennis business owners who allow their properties to fall into disrepair.    The latest meeting of Ennis Municipal District has heard a call from Mayor of Ennis, Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard, for traders to be compelled to keep their premises in a good state of repair in the context of the recently completed public realm works.    Clare FM's Seán Lyons was at the meeting and began by speaking to Councillor Howard about what type of enforcement she's seeking. Photo (c) Clare County Council

The Clare Immigrant Support Centre claims new legislation relating to social housing and residency status won't "exclude anyone who wasn't already excluded". The Housing Minister has introduced a bill which requires applicants for social housing to be lawfully and habitually resident in Ireland. Residency requirements have long existed in practice but will now be in effect on a statutory basis. Clare Immigrant Support Centre Direct Manager Simon O'Treasaigh says social housing is already unavailable to asylum seekers and those without valid visas .

On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Fergal O'Keeffe, Ennis Native and creator of Travel Tales with Fergal podcast. Fergal recounted his travels in Alentejo in Portugal to distract us from the current bad weather. Photo (c) Clare FM

Colm Liddy, local author and historian was back in-studio on Tuesday's Morning Focus for our regular history in focus slot. This week Colm continued telling Alan Morrissey the fascinating history of Clare during the Great Famine. Photo (c) Clare FM

With many people concerned about whether they're saving enough for retirement, and with ongoing economic uncertainty prompting questions about pensions, investments and long-term financial planning, Shannon Chamber is hosting a special investment planning event in Shannon next week in partnership with Cantor Fitzgerald.    The event will focus on retirement planning, wealth management, and current investment opportunities.    To discuss some of the key issues people should be considering when it comes to their financial future, Alan Morrissey was joined by Laura Reidy, Director of Wealth Management at Cantor Fitzgerald. Photo (c) Fergal Phillips via The Business Post

It promises to be one of the biggest nights in Irish sporting history.   Katie Taylor will return home to fight at Croke Park on the 5th of September, defending her world titles against unbeaten French challenger Flora Pili in a historic undisputed WBC Women's Super Lightweight Title clash, in what will be the Bray boxer's final fight.    The event marks the first professional boxing card at Croke Park since Muhammad Ali fought there in 1972 and could see Taylor crowned an undisputed world champion for a third time.   Ahead of what many are calling the perfect final chapter in an extraordinary career, Alan Morrissey spoke with Katie Taylor and her promoter, Brian Peters about the upcoming Croke Park bout with Flora Pili, and her incredible career. Photo (c) Clare FM

The Government is set to bring forward Jennie's Law this week, legislation that would establish a public register of people convicted of serious domestic violence offences. Named in memory of Jennifer Poole, the law is designed to help people make safer decisions in relationships by allowing access to information about past convictions. However, it also raises important questions around privacy, victim safety, and how effectively such measures can prevent domestic abuse. To discuss the potential impact of the proposed legislation, Alan Morrissey joined by Siobhán O'Connor, Director of Services with Clare Haven. Photo (c) Collins via The Irish Independent

Residents served by the Newport Water Treatment Plant have been living under a Boil Water Notice since May 20th, with many expressing frustration at the lack of clarity around when the issue will be resolved. Concerns have also been raised about communication from Uisce Éireann and the absence of alternative water supplies for affected households. The situation comes as Uisce Éireann prepares for another community engagement event on the proposed Shannon Pipeline later this month, prompting some residents to question confidence in the utility's ability to deliver major infrastructure projects. To discuss these issues, Alan Morrissey was joined by local resident Yvonne Moloney and Killaloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien. Photo (c) Uisce Eireann

Clare County Council has scrapped two of the most controversial elements of the Ennis 2040 Strategy from the County Development Plan. Proposals to build a boardwalk over the Ennis Post Office Field and a mixed-use commercial building at Abbey Street had been the subject of large local protests since 2023. The projects were officially paused by the Ennis 2040 DAC last year, before a proposed variation to the County Development Plan in March suggested removing them altogether. Elected representatives yesterday today voted in favour of the variation, which will also designate 250 sites and 1,200 acres for residential use countywide. Cora Hahessy from Save Ennis Town and Martin Vernon, Chairperson of the 'Hands Off Ennis Post Office Field' campaign, spoke to Alan Morrissey about the scrapping of these plans. Photo (c) Clare County Council

The EU Migration and Asylum Pact continues to generate significant political debate, with supporters arguing it will bring greater order and efficiency to the management of migration across Europe, while critics have raised concerns about issues including sovereignty, deportation procedures and the proposed use of return hubs in third countries. As Ireland moves to implement the pact, questions remain about its impact on the asylum system and what it will mean in practice. Alan Morrissey spoke to Shannon Sinn Fein TD Donna McGettigan and Fine Fáil TD Timmy Dooley to get their opinions on the issue. Image (c) European Union

Clare farmers will have an opportunity to have their health assessed for free today. The Irish Farmers Association is hosting a free Farmer Health Check in the Clare Marts from 10:30am. Funded by the Department of Agriculture, the mobile service will focus on areas like heart disease risk, early detection of diabetes, mental health and wellbeing, and will provide crucial information on prostate and skin cancer. Feakle-based chairperson of the Clare branch of the IFA, Stephen Walsh, says it's a great chance to eliminate the possibility of any issues.

Coming up on show, we reflect on Clare's wins in the ladies football and camogie All Ireland championships this weekend while we also look back on Avenue United's dramatic victory in the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup final. We will also speak to the Clare man who has been centrally involved in works on the BC Stadium Pitch in Vancouver ahead of the start of this weeks World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico

Coming up on show, we reflect on Clare's wins in the ladies football and camogie All Ireland championships this weekend while we also look back on Avenue United's dramatic victory in the Ennis Carpets Clare Cup final. We will also speak to the Clare man who has been centrally involved in works on the BC Stadium Pitch in Vancouver ahead of the start of this weeks World Cup in the US, Canada and Mexico

Clare is one of only four counties in Ireland where there are fewer learner drivers on the roads than a year ago. Figures released by the Road Safety Authority to the Irish Road Haulage Association show there were 7,531 learner permit holders in this county at the end of March, down from 7,659 during the same period in 2025. Nationally, however, more than one in ten drivers are on a learner permit, with 6,219 more learner drivers on Irish roads compared to a year ago. Clare-based former IRHA president and Ennis haulier, Eugene Drennan, has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons while Clare is going "in the right direction", the RSA is "too big" to tackle the problem at a national level.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch was live on Monday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey to discuss the weekends sporting fixtures. Games Reviewed: Newmarket Celtic v Avenue United (Ennis Carpets Clare Cup Final) Clare v Limerick (All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship) Laois v Clare (All-Ireland Intermediate Football Championship) Image: Clare FM

Alan Morrissey was joined by Dearbhaile O'Hare and Karen Kruger, organisers of the upcoming “Cancer Take A Hike” event taking place in Kilkee on the 13th of June.  The group will set off from Diamond Rocks Café and follow the breathtaking Kilkee Cliff Walk, a gentle 12km out-and-back coastal route along one of the most dramatic stretches of the Atlantic coastline.   Participants will pass landmarks such as Bishop's Island, St Kee's Well, and the ruins of Dunlicky Castle, with plenty of time to pause, take in the sea views, and enjoy good company along the way.  After the hike, there's an optional recovery experience with a sauna, ice bath, or hot tub at An Botháinín Sauna for those who want to unwind and recharge.  The event is free to take part in, with donations welcome in support of West Clare Cancer Support. It promises fresh air, connection, and a powerful message at its heart—quite literally, to tell cancer to take a hike. Photo (c) Cancer Take A Hike

Ambulance personnel across the country are currently considering Labour Court proposals aimed at resolving a long-running pay dispute within the National Ambulance Service.    Following years of campaigning, and a 24-hour strike by frontline staff last month, SIPTU and Unite have recommended that members accept proposals which include pay increases for a number of ambulance grades and protections for existing terms and conditions. The recommendations will now go to a ballot of union members.     To discuss what's on offer, what it means for ambulance personnel, and the mood among staff, Alan Morrissey was joined by Midwest Irish Ambulance Representative Council member and Clooney-Quin native Orla Considine, along with Ennis Ambulance Base Shop Steward Finola Croke. Photo (c) SIPTU

Judy Beck from Clonroad Garden Centre, Ennis was back on Monday's Morning Focus to answer all your gardening queries. This week, Judy gave advice for growing and tending to roses. If you have any questions for Judy, contact the show on 0818 400 964 or send a text or WhatsApp to 086 1800 964. Image (c) Clonroad Garden Centre

While the hedgehog remains one of Ireland's most familiar and beloved mammals, surprisingly little is known about its current status nationwide.     Studies across Britain and Europe have found significant declines in hedgehog populations due to habitat loss, changing farming practices and development, and there are concerns that similar pressures may be affecting hedgehogs here in Ireland.     A new National Hedgehog Survey, a collaboration between researchers at NUI Galway and the National Biodiversity Data Centre, is aiming to fill that knowledge gap, with members of the public and farmers being encouraged to get involved.    To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Bev Truss of The Hogsprickle Sanctuary in Broadford Photo (c) Sebastian Moldoveanu via Canva

A free workshop taking place in Kilrush this week (Thursday, 11th June, 7pm) aims to encourage greater understanding of gender identity, sexual orientation and inclusion within our communities. Hosted by GOSHH, the session will provide an accessible introduction to LGBTI+ identities, explore the importance of inclusive language and pronouns, and offer practical advice on how people can be supportive allies. The workshop is open to everyone, from young people and families to community groups and anyone interested in learning more. To tell us about the event and the work of GOSHH, Alan Morrissey was joined by Outreach Worker Bernie O'Gorman. Image (c) GOSHH

On Monday's Morning Focus, it was time for Alan Morrissey to be joined in studio by Siobhán Mulcahy to discuss the upcoming art events and workshops across the banner county. It is set to be a busy week in the Clare Art scene as we step into summer, the Doolin Folk Festival returns, Martin Hayes will be performing in Scariff, and a Polish exhibition will be happening in Ennis. Photo (c) Clare FM

Ennis has again dropped down the rankings of the cleanest towns in the country. The latest Irish Businesses Against Litter survey ranks Ennis in 19th position, down four spots from the start of the year. The results also indicate a marked decline from June 2025, when the county town narrowly missed out on top spot in the IBAL rankings after being deemed the second cleanest in the country. Just five of the ten areas of the town that were assessed received the top grade, with Ennis deemed overall to be ‘clean to European norms'. According to the An Taisce report heavy litter levels were detected on the Tulla Road, particularly at the Certa services area, while it was noted that ‘abuse and neglect' was seen at a vacant site on Bank Place which is in need of urgent attention. Place St. Paul De Fenouillet was identified as an attractive environment for visitors and the Abbey Street Car Park was also praised for its cleanliness and deemed ‘a place to relax'. The report also stated that the public realm works on O'Connell Street ‘was looking very well and very much deserved the top litter grade'. Mary Howard, Ennis Tidy Towns Rep, and Conor Horgan, Spokesperson for IBAL, spoke to Alan Morrissey about what this report means for Ennis. Image (c) Irish Businesses Against Litter

Jonathon Hickey, founder of Built by JH Fitness, is preparing to cycle an incredible 750 kilometres from the west of Ireland to Newcastle United's famous St James' Park this July and August.  The fundraiser aims to support two worthy causes, Féileacáin, which provides support to families affected by baby loss, and Grow Mental Health.   Jonathon joined Alan Morrissey to tell us about the journey ahead, the motivation behind it, and how people can get involved and support the cause.  Image (c) Jonathon Hickey via Facebook

 John Conroy is a Clare native, experienced fitness coach, founder of Fitness4Fun, and a long-time GAA coach who has dedicated almost two decades to volunteering in Uganda.    Through his work in education, health and sports development, John has helped transform lives and is the founder of Níle Óg Cusacks GAA Club in Uganda.    However, following the recent Ebola outbreak, John and his fellow volunteers have made the difficult decision to cancel this summer's planned trip.     John joined Alan Morrissey to discuss that decision, the ongoing projects being supported, and why his commitment to the people of Uganda remains as strong as ever. Photo (c) Clare FM

A major redevelopment of a North Clare primary school is expected to be transformative for pupils and teachers alike. Clare County Council has approved the Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board's plans for the construction of a new two-storey school building for Mol an Óige Community National School in Ennistymon. The new building will include eight classrooms, a two-classroom special needs facility, a general purpose hall, a library, and resource and learning rooms. LCETB Director of School Donncha Ó Treasaigh says it'll significantly enhance what the school has to offer.

Volunteers are being sought for a popular meals on wheels service expanding into North Clare. Obair has announced that its Inagh route is being extended into Ennistymon in response to demand. Established in Newmarket-on-Fergus over 20 years ago, the Obair Meals on Wheels service also has bases in Kilrush and Lisdoonvarna, and is planning to move into East Clare this summer. Service Coordinator with Obair, Eimear Murphy, says the more volunteers they have on their roster, the better the service can function.

Clare's beach bye-laws have come back into effect for the Summer season. As part of the measures, pet owners are prohibited from brining dogs onto the beach between 11am and 6pm. Doughmore Beach in Doonbeg is the only excpetion to the rule, but pets must be leashed or owners can face an on the spot fine of €75. County Dog Warden Frankie Coote says it's an option they're being forced to take.

A Clare TD says it's "not good enough" that children in this county are going to school in prefabs year after year. The Department of Education has revealed that over €4 million was spent on the rental of prefabs and associated land in Clare between 2020 and 2025. It's also confirmed there are 24 rental contracts in place in the county, comprising 22 contracts for prefabs and two for land, serving nine schools in total. Bodyke Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney claims many of these structures aren't up to the proper standard.

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer on Sunday 7th June 2026, the 1st Sunday after Trinity.

On this week's programme Fr Brendan Quinlivan includes a report from the ordination and First Mass of Fr. Ian Cunningham OFM in the Friary last week. He also has Interviews with - Sr. Gabrielle from the Poor Clares, FR. Aidan McGrath the Minister Provincial of the Franciscans in Great Britain and Ireland, Bishop Fintan, the ordaining prelate and the Franciscan Vocations Director - Fr. Liam Kelly.