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Fr. Gerry Kenny presents this Sunday Prayer, on 28th December 2025 the Feast of the Holy Family.

Fr Gerry Kenny presents a special festive edition of Beyond Belief. Join him in festive spirit as he bring you plenty of music, some reflections, greetings and messages as we prepare to face into the new year of 2026. Fr Gerry is joined by some students from St Joseph's Community College in Kilkee who share their thoughts and feelings about the special time that Christmas is for them.

A Clare technology expert is advising parents to limit their kids access to technology for prolonged stints to protect their mental health. Phones, tablets and games consoles will be among the most received gifts for children this year. Pat Clarke Browne from Munster Business in Shannon says parents should try to prevent their kids from using these devices on their own in their rooms for extended periods. He claims, weather permitting, children should be encouraged to spend as much time outside as possible.

Anyone visiting Clare's coastline over the festive period is being urged not to to enter the county's waters after consuming alcohol. The RNLI is reminding people that they will be on call over Christmas to assist anyone who gets into danger and advises people to 'Float to Live' should they find themselves in trouble. Stats from the charity indicate more than half those who have died by drowning did not intend to enter the water. Kilrush RNLI Helm and Lifeboat Press Officer Charlie Glynn, says it's crucial to carry a means of calling for help if entering the water for a dip over Christmas.

The Chair of the Clare branch of the IFA says it's 'difficult to comprehend' the impact the Mercusor trade deal would have if fully implimented in the new year. The trade agreement would see up to 99,000 tonnes of beef exported into the EU along with over 180,000 tonnes of poultry. Feakle Farmer Stephen Walsh says the EU shouldn't sacrifice the bloc's high food standards for the opportunity to export German cars to South America. He believes the deal will greatly effect rural towns in the county.

Kay Murphy on Older People by Clare FM

Maedhbh Firmino on Xmas Drinking by Clare FM

The steadfast support of locals is said to be responsible for a notable surge in Christmas spending in Kilrush. Traders across West Clare's capital have unanimously reported an upturn in fortunes this festive period. Nationwide, punters will spend over €3.9bn this December, as traders begin to wind down for Christmas Day. The average household spend is also expected to hit €1,600, which is a 14% rise on last year. Owner of Anchor Crafts in Kilrush Pauline Dunleavy says they're noticing a significant rise in business. One of the newest additions to the town is hailing the local support for the Christmas spending boost. Hannah O'Reilly, Owner of Clan Gift Store says the retail scene has been thriving this year. One longstanding trader in the town has pointed to variety and understanding local needs as factors helping to boost business this year. George Brew however from Brew's Hardware and Gifts believes the introduction of one hour parking would significantly improve economic activity in the town. One of Clare's longest serving retailers insists buying local will always be more beneficial to a customer than buying online. Seán Dunleavy who's been in retail over 50 years and is currently working in Patrick Bourke's Menswear says local people know what others want and more importantly what they dont.

A beloved nature spot in North Clare where a major fish kill was discovered two years ago will be the site of two tree planting events next month. The Restore Ballymacraven River Association is hosting the events on January 1st at 12pm and on January 31st at 11am. The group was founded following a fish kill which took place in May of 2023 on the Ballymacraven River in Ennistymon and is believed to have wiped out over 2,000 fish. Restore Ballymacraven River Association Communications Officer Cía McElveen Walsh says the incident was the catalyst for their mission to improve the health of the water body.

On Wednesday's Christmas Eve edition of Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey, we turned our attention to a festive event that's lighting up the roads of Clare for a great cause this Christmas. The Annual Keep'er Lit Charity Tractor and Truck Run returns on Sunday, December 28th, starting from Sixmilebridge Mart, raising funds for the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association and Multiple Sclerosis Clare. Live in-studio to talk about this was Shay O'Sullivan, organiser of the event from Kilmurry and Shirley Keane O'Brien from the MS Clare Branch.

Henry's Bistro are looking out for people once again this Christmas. The gang there will be cooking festive dinners for the homeless, elderly locals, and public service workers in the county town this Christmas Day. On Wednesday's Christmas Eve Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Elizabeth MacNamara, of Henry's Bistro Photo (c) Henry's Bistro via Facebook

Clare is to see 12 new speed cameras on its roads from the beginning of next year. An Garda Síochána has released details of its Mobile Safety Camera System Expansion 2026 which will see 390 new safety camera zones from January 1st. According to the Gardaí, the cameras are being installed "where there is a history of speed-related collisions known as speed enforcement zones". Shannon Fine Gael Councillor Tony Mulcahy, who's a member of Clare County Council's Road Safety Working Group, believes bad driving is the primary cause of crashes.

Shannondoc is set to be more resourced than ever before, for the Christmas period. The out-of hours GP service will be providing 24 hour cover from Christmas Eve until New Years Day. The organisation is, however, expecting a high increase in patient volumes and is advising that some may face slight delays. Shannondoc CEO Peter Clarke has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan they're confident of handling any and all challenges over the next week.

On Tuesday's edition of Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined live in-studio by Dr. Máire Finn, the Ennis GP. Máire joins us around this time each year, to address Christmas-related questions that are posed to her by children around Clare. Photo (c) X

Music and charity go hand-in-hand this time of year, and nowhere is that more evident than in Shannon. This December 24th, Cuppa Tea TV presents 'Youth in Music 74,' a busking event dedicated to supporting Focus Ireland. Whether you're a local performer looking to sign up on arrival or a shopper looking to support a vital cause, it promises to be a highlight of Christmas Eve. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Damien O'Rouke from Cuppa Tea TV and musician Jim Ryall.

The village of Kilmurry feels whole again today following the much-anticipated reopening of the Pumphouse. After a three-month closure, the bar has returned under new management, ready to serve again. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Bernard Farrelly, new management. Image (c) Pumphouse Bar

Behind every child with complex needs, there is a family working tirelessly to provide the best life possible. In Ennis, Deborah Lessa and her husband Fillipe have found an essential partner in that mission through the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation. As the charity launches its 'It Takes a Village' Christmas Appeal with a goal of raising €650,000, Deborah is speaking out about the life-changing impact of respite care. From simple trips to the shop to watching her daughter Alanna thrive and learn English with her carers.

Since 1989, the sight of brave souls diving into the Atlantic at Lahinch on Christmas morning has become a cornerstone of the Clare festive season. Originally founded by PJ Crotty and John Fawl, this tradition continues today through their families, carrying on a legacy of local generosity. This year, at 12 noon, the waves will be filled with swimmers once again, all raising vital funds for the Little Blue Heroes Foundation, a charity that turns courageous children battling serious illnesses into Honorary Gardaí. To tell us about the history of the swim and the 'heroes' it supports in Liscannor, Inagh, and beyond, Alan Morrissey had a chat with Clíona Fawl and Garda Niamh Keogh on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Lahinch Christmas Day Swim

Christmas on Inis Oírr is a world away from the mainland rush. Ennis-based Irish language activist, MacDara Ó Conaola grew up with the Atlantic at his doorstep. He joined Alan Morrissey on Morning Focus, to talk about the transition from a time of no Christmas trees to the vibrant, bustling island celebrations of today.

For the second time this year, Shannon Athletic Club is hosting the GOAL Mile, a tradition that spans over 45 years and supports humanitarian aid in some of the world's most vulnerable regions. Whether you're a seasoned sprinter or just looking to shake off the Christmas dinner with a family stroll, the track is open to everyone this St. Stephen's Day. To tell us about the event and how GOAL's work impacts lives from the Middle East to Latin America, Alan Morrissey was joined by the organiser, Rob Stephen. Photo (c) Shannon Athletic Club

It's the question on everyone's lips as we head into the festive period: will we see a white Christmas? While the dream of a snowy morning is fading, the forecast is still promising a 'crisp' winter experience. With temperatures set to dip to minus one on Christmas Eve night, we are looking at a cold, dry, and bright holiday for the most part. Michelle Dillon, Tullycrine Met Éireann forecaster spoke with Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Pat Flynn

In recent years taxi numbers have been depleting and at a time of year when traditionally people socialise more, how much of a problem is getting a taxi in Ennis, and other areas of the county over Christmas? On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey has been speaking with Razu Uddin Ahmed, a taxi driver from Shannon Photo (c): Skitterphoto from Pexels via Canva

Contractors are being sought for refurbishment works at Lee's Road in Ennis. The local authority is pricing the job to upgrade the athletic track at John O'Sullivan Park at €900,000. Businesses have until January 23rd to apply and the duration of the contract is six months. Ennis Fianna Fáil Councillor Clare Colleran-Molloy says it will be hugely beneficial for the town.

The first ever Clare member of An Garda Siochána to be killed on active duty, will be remembered at a special ceremony this weekend. Garda Thomas Dowling was shot dead during an ambush in Fanore on December 28th 1925. Garda Dowling had served in the IRA during the war of Independence, and the National Army after, before joining the Gardaí, and his death has been linked to lingering tensions of the civil war and a clamp down on poteen distillation. Local Historian and Fanore native Joe Queally says his family have vivid memories of the night Garda Dowling died.

A scheme intended to be the solution to long-standing traffic congestion in North Clare has been branded a "waste of taxpayers' money". Judicial review proceedings in relation to the Ennistymon Inner Relief Road have reached a conclusion in the High Court, paving the way for the progression of the scheme. The project involves the construction of a new bridge in Ennistymon across the Cullenagh River, approximately 80 metres upstream of the existing Michael Conway Bridge. In September 2022, An Bórd Pleanála approved Clare County Council's Compulsory Purchase Order to acquire lands and buildings necessary for the construction of the bridge. The plans hit a stumbling block in November of that year, however, as a judicial review was sought and this effectively brought the project to a standstill. Almost three years later, in October of this year, the High Court dismissed the application for leave to bring a judicial review against the CPO. With the proceedings now having concluded with the mutual consent of all parties, the development can finally go ahead. Ennistymon Fianna Fáil Councillor Shane Talty says those affected by construction will be contacted by the local authority in the near future. The conversation around a solution to traffic congestion at Blake's Corner has spanned several decades and has often been contentious. A campaign has been led in recent years by a group named 'Save Ennistymon Heritage' to prevent any damage being caused to the listed buildings of Blake's and Linnane's. Donogh O'Loghlin, who runs a drapers on Lahinch's main street, believes the proposed scheme will create more bottlenecks.

Over €800,000 in funding has been made available to renovate key buildings across Clare. Mountshannon is the biggest beneficiary where €500,000 has been allocated under the Town and Village Renewal Scheme to refurbish a 1940's community hall into a modern accessible theatre with a market space. Scariff is receiving €274,800 to redevelop a derelict building into a youth centre, while €50,000 is going to Miltown Malbay to expand a creative space in the former Bank of Ireland building. Clare Minister of State Timmy Dooley has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that it will revitalise local communities.

A special fundraiser is taking place in Ennis this St. Stephen's Night, bringing the local music community together for a very meaningful cause. The event is in memory of Ennis woman Anne Loftus, who sadly passed away in San Francisco and was brought home with the help of the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust. To tell us more about the night and why this cause is so close to their hearts, Alan Morrissey was joined by Gearoid Mannion on Monday's Morning Focus.

Welcoming, creative and community-focused, a new café has opened its doors in the heart of Ennistymon. Box & Bean has joined the town's growing business community, offering quality coffee, local art and light bites to enjoy on the go. To tell us more about the vision behind the café and the warm welcome they've received so far, Alan Morrissey was joined by Senan Byrne, Co-owner of Box & Bean in Ennistymon. Photo (c) Box & Bean

To review the year in sport, Alan Morrisey was joined on by Clare FM's Derrick Lynch, Tommy Guilfoyle and Syl O'Connor. They looked back on: -Clare Senior Hurlers – relegated to Division 1B of NHL, eliminated from Munster SHC -Clare Senior Footballers – finished 3rd in Division 3 of NFL, beaten in Munster SFC Final by Kerry, lost all 3 games & finished bottom of All-Ireland SFC Group 3 -Clare Senior Footballers – Peter Keane stepped down as manager after one season, following short tenure of Mark Fitzgerald – Paul Madden takes over -Éire Óg do the double – Canon Hamilton and Jack Daly Cups -Clare clubs in Munster Club Championships - Éire Óg, O'Callaghan's Mills, Corofin -Clare win All-Ireland U18 B Ladies Football Final – defeat champions Sligo (1-8 to 0-7) -Ennis Ladies RFC – maiden AIL campaign -Local soccer

Shannon Airport saw one of its busiest days of the festive period on Friday. Over 8,000 passengers passed through the facility on the day in question, and the airport's management expects to see 125,000 fly through it in the few days before and after Christmas which is up 10% on last year. Those arriving at the Clare base on Friday morning and afternoon were greeted by the talents of musicians, singers and dancers from St Flannan's College in Ennis as they walked through the arrivals gates. Clare FM's Seán Lyons headed to Shannon to meet some of those waiting for their loved ones to come home. Photo (c) Clare FM

On this week's In The Garden, Judy Beck provided listener's with all the tips regarding purchasing gifts for gardener's and nature lovers this festive season.

Christmas can be a lonely time for many older people, particularly those dealing with bereavement, isolation, or family difficulties. SeniorLine, Ireland's national telephone service for older people, is open every day throughout Christmas and the New Year, offering company, conversation and support. To tell us more about the service, the calls they receive at this time of year, and some simple ways we can all help older people feel more connected, Alan Morrissey was joined by Anne Dempsey, Communications Manager and Training Facilitator with SeniorLine. Freephone Seniorline on 1800 80 45 91, every day from 10am to 10pm. Image (c) Seniorline

Clare FM Analyst Ann Marie McGann On New Camogie Trial Rules by Clare FM

The members of the Ennis Sub Aqua Club are preparing to take a cold plunge for a vital cause this festive season. The club is gearing up for its annual Fin Swim, a gruelling two-mile journey down the dark waters of the River Fergus to raise funds for their voluntary missing person search operations across the Mid-West. To tell us more about the specialised training required for these missions and how the community can support the club this Christmas, Alan Morrissey spoke with long standing club member, Tom Fitzpatrick.

While Christmas can be a joyful time for many, it can also be a difficult and lonely period for others. Clare Samaritans are reminding people that support is always available, and they're also appealing for new volunteers to help meet demand over the festive season. To talk to us about reaching out for help, staying connected, and how people can get involved, Alan Morrissey was joined by Larry Hally from Clare Samaritans.

The expected commencement date of a long-awaited public transport service in Ennis has been postponed once again. The Ennis Town Bus Service, which will run in both directions from Clarecastle to Ballymaley and from the Tulla Road to Shanaway, now isn't expected to become operational until summer 2026. A public consultation process on the proposed installation of bus stops at a host of locations across the county town ran from November 14th to December 12th of this year but just two submissions were received. The service was originally expected to commence in the first three months of 2025, and Mayor of Ennis, Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard, says she didn't think it would take so long to get the service up and running.

A roadblock in the delivery of a solution to traffic congestion in a North Clare town has been removed following a lengthy legal challenge. Judical review proceedings regarding the proposed Ennistymon Inner Relief Road have concluded in the High Court with the mutual consent of all parties involved. It means the long-awaited scheme involving the construction of a new bridge 80 metres upstream from the existing Michael Conway Bridge can now proceed. Ennistymon Fianna Fáil Councillor Shane Talty says progress on the project will soon be seen for the first time in a long time.

On Atlantic Tales this week, Pat Flynn visits a typical nineteenth century vernacular farmhouse located at Tullyvarraga in Shannon. Hastings Farmhouse appeared in the first edition ordnance survey map of 1940 and was lived in by the Hastings family until the early 1970's. Now, efforts are underway to restore the historic farmhouse and open it up as a community space.

Rita Mc Speaking On Golden Hour Treatment by Clare FM

Dr Aisling Moroney On WDC Survey by Clare FM

Cathal Crowe Speaking On Safe Routes Scheme by Clare FM

Joe Cooney On Employment Scheme by Clare FM

Frankie Coote Speaking On Illegal Dumping by Clare FM

Fr Gerry Kenny presents our Sunday Prayer and is assisted by pupils of Moyasta N.S. in West Clare who lead us in prayer on this 4th Sunday of Advent

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Carol Service with carols, readings and messages from our Bishops.

Coming up on the show: We have two very special guests lined up to take us through on the final show of the year, with details for you on how you can support Clare's hurling and camogie teams for 2026, along with chatting to one of the counties favourite sons.

Gráinne is a 23-year-old Irish singer -songwriter based in Dublin. Her music offers a candid glimpse into her world, with honest lyrics that offer a look at the chaos of early adulthood. She's got a quiet confidence you find in artists who've maybe strayed away home and lived a little, and it shows on her debut single, "Twentysomething". Gráinne's journey to this moment is as unique as her sound. A native of Wexford, she spent the last four years studying music in Finland, where she started putting her thoughts and experiences to paper, writing her first original songs. She has collaborated with many talents, including songwriters and producers from Elements Music on EDM-inspired projects- some of which have been recently released. It might seem like a world away from her current sound, but those sessions were valuable-honing her songwriting skills. Now, back on home turf, Gráinne is ready to share her own story with a voice that is both vulnerable and powerful. She's not just hoping to make a mark; she's here to connect with a generation that's still figuring it all out, one song at a time. “6ftunder”is a reflection on the invisible string that connects us to the past- the habits, beliefs, and traditions passed down through generations. How much of what we do each day comes from those who came before us? How many of our ideas about what life should mean are inherited, outdated, or in some ways haunting us? Rooted partly in Ireland's rich and complicated history, yet stretching far beyond it, 6ft Under explores the pull between tradition and progress- between honouring what's been and questioning what still should be. It's a song for grey, misty days- for wandering through fields and up hills, or just down to the pub, past the old graveyard with it's ivy-covered gates.

Kieran Keating was elected unopposed for his fifth and final term as chairman of Clare GAA at this weeks' Annual Convention. Clare FM's Derrick Lynch spoke with the Naomh Eoin clubman to reflect on his time in the role and look ahead to the 2026 campaign. Photo (c) Clare GAA

Over 8,000 people will pass through Shannon Airport today as the facility welcomes scores home for the festive season. The Christmas spirit is in the air at the facility which is seeing a 10% boost in its passenger numbers this Christmas. It's one of the busiest days of the festive period for the Clare base which is seeing 125,000 come through its gates in the few days before and after Christmas. It marks a 10% increase in Christmas traffic for Shannon which has seen significant growth in the past year. Passengers coming home for Christmas were greeted in the arrivals lounge by the sounds of the St Flannan's College choir.

One of Clare's most uplifting musical events is set to return early next year, as the Ennis Choral Festival comes back to Ennis from January 30th to February 1st, 2026, bringing three days of competition, workshops and community singing under the theme “Spring Into Song.” With choirs travelling from across the country and beyond, it promises to be a real celebration of choral music in the county. Speaking to Alan Morrissey on Friday's Morning Focus was Carmel Honan, Director of the Ennis Choral Festival, Peter Murphy, Head of Marketing & CSR at Ei Electronics and Margaret O' Brien, CEO Ennis Chamber. Photo (c) Ennis Choral Festival Facebook

Jack O'Dea is a volunteer with Clare Civil Defence and was named their Volunteer of the Year recently. He was honoured with the John Cuddihy Volunteer of the Year Award for 2025 for the pivotal role he played in saving the life of an old age pensioner. Alan Morrissey was speaking with Jack on Friday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Clare Civil Defence Facebook