Clare FM - Podcasts

IBÍLÈ will be hosting its first West Clare pop-up tasting experience this weekend. IBÍLÈ is a contemporary pop-up dining restaurant dedicated to showcasing the vibrant flavours of West African cuisine. They will have a tasting menu at Pot Duggans in Ennistymon on the 7th & 8th of November. The menu is inspired by Nigerian roots, paired with music, storytelling, and cocktails crafted African wine pairings with Irish spirits. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with the founder of IBÍLÈ, Tolu Asemento. Photo (c) via Pot Duggans Facebook

A Midwest migrants rights charity says a new report shows there's a "lack of oversight and adequate governance" from management of an accommodation centre for asylum seekers in south-east Clare. HIQA's latest inspection of the Knockalisheen Accommodation Centre in lower Meelick has found that the provider failed to comply with eight standards. "Significant risks" associated with the premises were identified as well as "serious fire safety concerns" while it was also observed that some residents "felt unsafe" following a number of violent incidents at the facility. Doras CEO John Lannon has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons it's clear there has been no meaningful improvement in the quality of accommodation being provided at the centre since the last inspection.

Danny Lynch, Chef at Le Cheile, Barefield was back with some delicious recipe you can make for yourself at home. This week, Danny brought in some delicious smoked bacon, mushroom and chicken creamy pasta with a cheesecake for desert.

Jackie recently published her memoir, ‘We Made It, Kid', described as “compelling, heartfelt and inspiring”. The book certainly has a lot to cover: from Jackie being born to an Irish mother and Jamaican father in the UK, then being placed in an industrial school as a baby by a priest for being an "illegitimate" and so much more besides. Jackie joined Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Jackie McCarthy O'Brien

Roisín Meaney is a best-selling author who released her 22nd book, Moving On in February of this year. The good news for the Clare-based writer is that Moving On has been nominated for the An Post Irish Book Awards 2025. Roisín spoke with Alan Morrissey about this on Thursday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Goodreads

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn chats with artist, art teacher and owner of Anchor Crafts, Pauline Dunleavy. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

It's time for another episode of our newest feature on Morning Focus, Traditional Greats. Traditional Greats is presented and produced by Therese McInerney. This captivating 26-part series celebrates the enduring legacy of traditional Irish music in our county. Each episode pays tribute to a legendary Clare musician who has passed on, but whose influence continues to inspire generations. Therese speaks with musicians from across the county, exploring how these iconic figures shaped their musical journeys and contributed to Clare's unique cultural heritage. Throughout the series, the timeless sounds of these greats are brought vividly to life, weaving their legacy into the very fabric of Clare's musical identity. Listeners will enjoy a rich and heartfelt journey through the melodies, stories, and traditions that define our county's proud musical history. In the latest episode of Traditional Greats, Therese pays tribute to Kitty Linnane which features Garry Shannon.

Last September, we were joined in studio by Owen O'Brien to talk about his son Cillian, who had suffered life changing injuries following a sudden collapse in school this year. Caused by a rare condition called Arteriovenous Malformation, young Cillian sustained a catastrophic brain bleed and was rushed to Temple Street Children's Hospital. Cillian's acquired brain injury affected his speech to the point where he was non-verbal, his vision was compromised, and he was physically unable to support himself. An iDonate campaign had been set up with a target of €300,000, to help provide accessible and future proofed living space at the family home. On Thursday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Dónall O'Connor from Doora, who is doing his part to help with that mission. You can donate by going to this link https://www.gofundme.com/f/100km-walk-in-a-day-fundraiser-bringcillianhome Photo (c) Go Fund Me

A meeting will be held in Quin next week, with a view to setting up a local community group. The meeting is due to take place at the Quin Community Centre on Wednesday, the 12th of November at 7pm. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Ann McNamara, member of Quin Heritage Group & local historian.

The annual Eamon de Valera Commemoration will take place this weekend. Ennis Courthouse is the venue for Sunday's Fianna Fáil commemoration, the 9th of November at 11am. The party's Ireland South MEP Billy Kelleher will give the oration. Alan Morrissey was joined live in studio on Thursday's Morning Focus by Billy Kelleher and Kilnamona monumental sculptor & Fianna Fáil member Mike McTigue. (c) Ógra Fianna Fáil via Facebook

A verdict of unlawful killing has been returned at the inquest into the death of Emer O'Loughlin, the Clare woman who body was discovered in a burnt-out mobile home two decades ago. The remains of the Ennistymon native were found in a caravan on lands at Ballybornagh near Tubber on the 8th of April, 2005. The jury returned the verdict at the inquest at the Coroner's Court sitting in Kilrush on Wednesday. Alan Morrissey was joined live on Morning Focus by Emer's sister, Pam O'Loughlin. Picture (c) Justice For Emer O'Loughlin via Facebook

It's claimed maintenance works at the Cliffs of Moher are "essential" to have the coastal walk fully open next year. Clare County Council has begun a search for a contractor to carry out "trail maintenance, repair and replacement" works on the Cliffs of Moher Coastal Walk. The local authority has put the project out to tender with the contract valued at €750,000. Ennistymon Fianna Fáil Councillor Shane Talty says everyone wants to see the attraction fully operational in 2026.

A Clare woman who was detained by Israeli forces while travelling to Gaza as part of the Sumud Flotilla says she would do it "a hundred times over" until a lasting peace is achieved in the region. A public meeting will take place this evening in Cloughleigh in Ennis at 8:15pm. Fanore activist Maureen Almai (Al-my), Head of the Clare Participation Network, Sarah Clancy and Ennistymon native Leigh Brosnan, who is a member of Lawyers for Palestine will all be in attendance for the round table discussion. Maureen says it's disappointing that the international focus on Israel during the flotilla's campaign has waned in the weeks after.

Post Offices in Carrigaholt and Shannon will remain open after new contractors were appointed at both locations. In a statement to Clare FM, An Post has confirmed there will be no reduction or disruption to services in either location, although Shannon's office may be relocated to a new unit within Shannon Town Centre. It brings a period of uncertainty to an end for both communities after the former Postmasters in Carrigaholt and Shannon tendered their resignations in September. Shannon Fine Gael Councillor Tony Mulcahy has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that it's a huge relief for the town.

A Clare MEP claims it's "impossible" for Ireland to meet the EU's newly-agreed carbon emission reduction target. Environment ministers across the bloc have agreed to commit to slashing greenhouse gas emissions by 90% of 1990 levels by 2040. As part of the agreement, EU states will be able to buy carbon "credits" to allow them to finance climate works in the Global South or elsewhere which would be counted towards their own reduction. Scariff-based Independent MEP Michael McNamara fears the Irish government adopt a "small man to carry the can" approach by targeting the agriculture sector.

Clare students are urged to complete their SUSI application ahead of this week's impending deadline for applications. Applications close at midnight on Thursday, with students advised to apply as soon as possible in the event extra paperwork is required as part of their application. To apply, an account must be set up with the SUSI student portal, while eligibility for various grants can also be verified on the SUSI website. Vice President for Education & Welfare at the TUS Ennis Campus, Emma Hogan, says as there's no exceptions for late applications, students should register without hesitation.

Tommy Corbett from Carey Corbett Financial Solutions was back in Clare FM to tell us everything you need to know on the auto-enrolment pension scheme in Ireland.

It's time for another episode of our newest feature on Morning Focus, Traditional Greats. Traditional Greats is presented and produced by Therese McInerney. This captivating 26-part series celebrates the enduring legacy of traditional Irish music in our county. Each episode pays tribute to a legendary Clare musician who has passed on, but whose influence continues to inspire generations. Therese speaks with musicians from across the county, exploring how these iconic figures shaped their musical journeys and contributed to Clare's unique cultural heritage. Throughout the series, the timeless sounds of these greats are brought vividly to life, weaving their legacy into the very fabric of Clare's musical identity. Listeners will enjoy a rich and heartfelt journey through the melodies, stories, and traditions that define our county's proud musical history. In the latest episode of Traditional Greats, Therese pays tribute to singer Jerry Lynch which features John Lynch.

The Galway Science and Technology Festival will take place this weekend. Sunday's event at the University of Galway campus will feature over 100 interactive exhibits, 25 different shows and workshops, plus much more besides for all ages. The theme for this year, ‘Then, Today, Tomorrow', will highlight scientific discoveries of the past, showcasing today's latest innovations, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, technologies and engineers. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by the festival organiser, Anne Murray.

'Bringing Honour to the Name of Ballyea, A History of Ballyea GAA, 1884-1984' is the title of a new book which has been edited by Mike O'Shea. The book will be launched this Saturday, November 8th, at The Local Inn, Drumquin, at 6:30 p.m. To find out more, Mike O'Shea, editor of the book, and Diarmuid Considine, chairperson of Ballyea GAA, joined Alan Morrissey live in-studio on Wednesday's Morning Focus.

East Clare Community Co-Op's fundraising campaign to purchase their premises will take place tomorrow evening Thursday, the 6th November at 7pm. The launch of their efforts to save the future home of the Co-Op will take place at the premises in Scariff. Alan Morrissey was joined on Wednesday's Morning Focus by Sam Rogers, the Secretary and member of the Management Committee. Photo (c) Heads Up Clare

A Clare TD claims the inclusion of his suggestion on wastewater treatment plants in newly-drafted Government housing policy is proof backbenchers can make a difference. Minister James Browne has instructed Uisce Éireann to progress the use of modular units that can be used for new housing developments or fixed to existing plants to expedite delivery. It follows Bodyke Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney's proposal in June of this year that plants be constructed off-site as an interim solution to delays in unsewered settlements. Speaking in the Oireachtas Housing Committee, he says it's a "major boost for rural areas".

A Clare teaching representative says online bullying is becoming increasingly difficult for schools to tackle. A new UCD report published by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality has found that bulling and family diversity are "significant risks to a child's emotional development and wellbeing". The findings also state that screen time has "increased markedly" for children between the years of 2008 and 2024, with increased time with technology associated with lower levels of wellbeing and physical activity. INTO Rep for Clare, Principal of Sixmilebridge National School Gareth Heagney, says the prevalence of online incidents is a "huge" societal issue.

A Clare teaching representative says online bullying is becoming increasingly difficult for schools to tackle. A new UCD report published by the Department of Children, Disability and Equality has found that bulling and family diversity are "significant risks to a child's emotional development and wellbeing". The findings also state that screen time has "increased markedly" for children between the years of 2008 and 2024, with increased time with technology associated with lower levels of wellbeing and physical activity. INTO Rep for Clare, Principal of Sixmilebridge National School Gareth Heagney, says the prevalence of online incidents is a "huge" societal issue.

A Clare developer claims allowing the private sector to fund the construction of wastewater infrastructure would "definitely" speed up its delivery. Housing Minister James Browne has tabled a proposal whereby developers would be responsible for building wastewater treatment plants. Once the EPA finds that the plants meet environmental standards, they would then be taken in charge by Uisce Éireann. Ciaran Breen of Ciaran Breen Construction has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons he believes it would give developers a greater incentive to complete the project on schedule.

Dogs in Clare are allegedly being left in limbo when their owners go into nursing homes. Clare's County Dog Warden is urging families to assist their loved ones with rehoming pets when they're no longer able to take care of them. Frankie Coote claims older people often surrender dogs because they haven't put a plan in place to pass them on to their relatives when they become unwell. He's encouraging families to have these conversations to ensure pets get the best care available.

“Prospector” is a special documentary telling the incredible story of Paddy Hannan from Gorteen near Quin, Co Clare. In the early 1860s, Paddy left Clare for the goldfields of Australia and New Zealand. In 1893, he and two friends made a discovery that sparked one of the great Western Australian Gold Rushes. That find, in the scorching Australian outback, ultimately led to the founding of the city of Kalgoorlie where the main thoroughfare is named Hannan Street. This programme has been produced to mark the 100th anniversary of Paddy Hannan's death in Melbourne on November 4th 1925. “Prospector” is the story of Paddy Hannan and has been produced by Pat Flynn and was recorded in Clare and Kalgoorlie-Boulder, WA. Special thanks to: Timothy Moore, Local History and Archives Officer City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder; Tim Cudini, President Eastern Goldfields Historical Society, Kalgoorlie-Boulder; Annette Watt, Manager, Hannan's North Tourist Mine, Kalgoorlie-Boulder; Michael Talty, Executive Librarian at the Clare Local Studies Centre in Ennis, Co Clare; Mary Cahill, former Keeper of Irish Antiquities at the National Museum of Ireland and Larry Brennan, Clare Roots Society, Ennis.

Roisin Mulqueen Howard from Tulla Road, Ennis has been named the Clare Lidl Family Carer of the Year 2025. The awards recognise the remarkable commitment, compassion and strength of family carers who provide essential care to loved ones every day. Roisin joined Alan Morrissey live in-studio during Tuesday's Morning Focus.

It's time for another episode of our newest feature on Morning Focus, Traditional Greats. Traditional Greats is presented and produced by Therese McInerney. This captivating 26-part series celebrates the enduring legacy of traditional Irish music in our county. Each episode pays tribute to a legendary Clare musician who has passed on, but whose influence continues to inspire generations. Therese speaks with musicians from across the county, exploring how these iconic figures shaped their musical journeys and contributed to Clare's unique cultural heritage. Throughout the series, the timeless sounds of these greats are brought vividly to life, weaving their legacy into the very fabric of Clare's musical identity. Listeners will enjoy a rich and heartfelt journey through the melodies, stories, and traditions that define our county's proud musical history. In the latest episode of Traditional Greats, Therese pays tribute to Jerry Lynch, featuring Padraic O'Reilly and John Lynch.

The One Act Drama Festival is coming to Doonbeg this weekend. The event, part of the West Clare Drama Festival, will take place from Saturday to Monday, the 8th to the 10th of November. Nine different plays will be performed over three nights. For more on this, Chairperson of the West Clare Drama Festival, Andrew Killeen joined Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (C) West Clare Drama Festival Doonbeg Facebook

A lunch and information session for people with Parkinson's in County Clare will take place this coming weekend. The event will be held on Sunday, the 9th of November at the Inn at Dromoland from 1pm. It is being organised by the Midwest branch of Parkinson's Ireland. On the line to chat more about this on Tuesday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey was Una Anderson Ryan, PRO Parkinson's Midwest. Photo (c) by pixelshot via Canva

All politicians are being warned against scapegoating asylum seekers after an arson attack on an IPAS centre in Co. Louth. People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy has issued the warning and says targeting innocent children is unacceptable. A security review will be undertaken at all IPAS centres after four children, including a baby, were among five people rescued from the top floor of a building housing International Protection applicants on Friday night in the town, while 28 people were made homeless. Meanwhile, newly arrived Ukrainian refugees will only be allowed 30 days in State accommodation under new plans from the Government. Last night, the Cabinet sub-committee agreed to slash the current 90 day allowance after a recent surge in arrivals from the war torn nation. Elsewhere, the group also agreed in principle that working asylum seekers will have to contribute towards their accommodation costs. However, further work on this proposal will now be undertaken and presented to Cabinet again in the next few weeks. Fianna Gael councillor, Joe Garrihy and Simon Ó Treasaigh, Clare Immigrant Support Centre Manager spoke with Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) benedek from Getty Images Signature via Canva

More than 50 Gardaí in the Clare/Tipperary Garda Division will be eligible to retire next year. Figures released by the Justice Minister to Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan shows 55 Gardaí of various ranks will reach retirement age next year, with this figure rising to 77 in 2027, 91 in 2028 and 108 in 2029. A further nine members across the division are due to compulsorily retire over the next four years. Deputy Donna McGettigan fears this will leave Clare "on the backfoot" unless recruitment efforts are ramped up.

There's a call for hidden cameras to be installed in illegal dumping blackspots in rural parts of Clare following a serious incident over the weekend. A large number of items were found disposed of in a ditch on what's known locally as the Farmer's Road in the Rossmanagher area of Sixmilebridge on Sunday. The items included a quad bike, a propane gas tank, children's toys and several plastic materials. Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons he believes GDPR is protecting illegal dumpers and not the general public.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch and Derek Dormer spoke with Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus on three significant GAA games that were held over the weekend. Games reviewed: Munster Intermediate Hurling Championship Quarter-Final: O'Callaghan's Mills 1-19 Abbeydorney (Kerry) 1-17 (Sunday) Munster Junior Hurling Club Championship Quarter-Final: Killrossanty (Waterford) 2-14 The Banner 0-19 (Saturday, Lemybrien) Ladies Football Munster Senior B Final: Glanmire 4-15 Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-6 (Saturday, Mallow)

An event highlighting the decline of the Irish language in West Clare will be held later this week. Dr. Síle Ní Choincheannain from Mary Immaculate College will deliver the lecture at Bhí Gaeilge ag do Granny! From Irish to English: Language Decline in West Clare. It will be held at An Teach Ceoil, Kilrush this Thursday, November 6th at 8pm. Photo (c) Mary Immaculate College

Judy Beck from Clonroad Garden Centre was back in the Clare FM studios for In The Garden on Monday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey. Judy was in to tell us about how we can make our gardens more eco-friendly. If you have any questions for Judy, contact the show on 0818 400 964 or send a text or WhatsApp to 086 1800 964.

It's time for another episode of our newest feature on Morning Focus, Traditional Greats. Traditional Greats is presented and produced by Therese McInerney. This captivating 26-part series celebrates the enduring legacy of traditional Irish music in our county. Each episode pays tribute to a legendary Clare musician who has passed on, but whose influence continues to inspire generations. Therese speaks with musicians from across the county, exploring how these iconic figures shaped their musical journeys and contributed to Clare's unique cultural heritage. Throughout the series, the timeless sounds of these greats are brought vividly to life, weaving their legacy into the very fabric of Clare's musical identity. Listeners will enjoy a rich and heartfelt journey through the melodies, stories, and traditions that define our county's proud musical history. In the latest episode of Traditional Greats, Therese pays tribute to James Cullinan, which features Jack Talty.

Clare County Arts Officer Siobhán Mulcahy was back in studio on Monday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey. Siobhán provided our listeners with all the details of this week's live events for entertainment lovers in Banner County. This week, Siobhán told us about Chapel Lane Craft Fairs, Ennis Trad Festival, Doonbeg One Act Festival and much more.

We spotted a comment left on Facebook recently, which caught our eye. The post was in relation to what, in the poster's view, was the high cancer rates in Ennistymon. The most recent figures from the CSO for 2021 revealed that the Ennistymon region had the highest rate of neoplasm-related deaths of any area in the country. Neoplasms are abnormal masses of tissue that can be cancerous, accounted for more deaths than any other factor countywide in that year, with the exception of Kilrush. To explore this further, Alan Morrissey was joined live on the line by Dr Michael Kelleher.

Ennis dancer Oskarina O'Sullivan is set to return to the West End stage as part of the original cast of I'm Every Woman: The Musical - the new production celebrating the life and legacy of Chaka Khan. Starring Alexandra Burke in the lead role, the musical will run at London's Peacock Theatre from 5th-28th March 2026. Oskarina O'Sullivan joined Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus to tell us more.

Limiting media access to new council policing committees 'doesn't make sense' according to the National Union of Journalists. The Government is advising the restrictions for the new Local Community Safety Partnerships. The LCSPs, which will replace the old Joint Policing Committees, aim to bring together a broader range of stakeholders than before, including local residents, HSE and Gardaí. Alan Morrissey was joined by Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor and former member of the Joint Policing Committee Pat Hayes to discuss this further. Image (c) Fianna Fáil

Transport Infrastructure Ireland will assess safety measures on the M18 motorway in Clare following a spate of road traffic collisions on the route. In the last fortnight alone, emergency services have attended five crashes, which left two people hospitalised. Clare TD Cathal Crowe has since written to TII and the Transport Minister querying the possibility of variable speed limits on the M18, similar to those in effect on the M50. TII Communications Director Seán O'Neill says a review of the incidents will be carried out before any action is taken.

A Clare community organisation is among the beneficiaries of a new government programme that redirects the proceeds of crime. The €4.4m Community Safety Fund is entirely composed of monies seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau. It's now been reinvested in 42 voluntary organisations nationwide, with the Killaloe Ballina Family Resource Centre getting €45,300. Centre Administrator Brona Moriarty says it will play a huge role in their operations.

On this week's Atlantic Tales Pat Flynn visits the award-winning Shannon Aviation Museum which has evolved over a number years and continues to expand its already extensive collection. It is the most comprehensive museum of its kind in Ireland, featuring a vast collection of memorabilia several full size aircraft, engines, a Boeing 737 flight simulator and an impressive Irish Air Corps exhibit.

A major programme of works is due to get underway in a Shannon Housing Estate. Clare County Council has announced it will be carrying enhancements at Finian Park. The works will involve upgraded paving and footpath surfaces, expansion of existing green areas and the replacement of all existing energy columns with modern efficient units. Shannon Sinn Féin representative Shane Doody says it's urgently needed.

Community Groups in Clare are being urged to apply for a new funding stream for local projects before next week's deadline. Under the Circular Communication Programme, over €100,000 will be made available to groups to promote environmental campaigns. Grants of between €1,000 and €5,000 are available and will cover digital marketing campaigns and mentoring. Circular.ie Community Liaison Manager Evelyn Fitzpatrick says it would greatly suit Tidy Towns and community development groups.

Stephem fletcher presents Beyond Belief for Sunday 2nd November 2025

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer on today Sunday 2nd November 2925

Clare County Council is seeking a contractor to install a mini roundabout at a notorious Ennis junction. The local authority has published the tender for minor civil engineering traffic calming works at the junction of the Shanaway Road and the Lahinch Road in the county town. The works are valued at €200,000 and involve the realignment of the junction, the construction of a mini roundabout, the upgrading of the road and footpath, and the installation of pedestrian crossings. Mayor of Ennis Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard says after years of lobbying for the measure, she's relieved to know the wait will soon be over.

The MidWest Region's maternity hospital will hold a remembrance service tomorrow. The mass will take place at the Church of the Holy Rosary on the Ennis Road in Limerick on Sunday at 3pm. According to the CSO, there were 18 neonatal deaths in the MidWest, including four new-borns from Clare. Fr Des McAuliffe says it's a very poignant and comforting occasion for bereaved families and staff.