Clare FM - Podcasts

A much-loved Disney classic is coming to life on stage in Ennis next week, as Ennis Musical Society returns with its latest production, Beauty and the Beast: A Broadway Musical. With a cast of over 60 performers, stunning music, and all the magic audiences know and love, the show will run at Glór from April 1st to 4th. On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Claire Curtin, Chairperson and also playing the role of Madame de la grand bouche and Aoife O Gorman, who plays the lead role of Belle.

School-based anxiety is something many families are struggling with right now, with more and more young people feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of school. What can sometimes look like reluctance or refusal to attend is often rooted in anxiety, leaving parents unsure how best to respond. To talk more about what's behind this and how parents can support their teenagers, Alan Morrissey was joined by Margaret O'Brien, founder of YouthWell Clare, a psychotherapist with over 10 years' experience specialising in adolescents, young adults, and parent support.

It's claimed South-East Clare communities have been left in chaos over heavy-goods vehicles attempting to avoid an impassable bridge. It's understood a lack of warning signage on the main road from Sixmilebridge to Cratloe is allowing artic lorries and coaches to reach Poulawilly Bridge, which has a height restriction of 11.6m. The issue is leaving large lines of traffic with no option to reverse back up the R462, causing major delays, with some reports of damage to farm and residential property. Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District and Sixmilebridge Fine Gael Councillor John Crowe and Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman have been outlining the problem to Clare FM's Daragh Dolan. Photo (c) Norrie3699 Getty Images via Canva

We're shining a light on a very special community event happening next month for World Autism Month. An Autism Awareness Walk is being organised in Killaloe and Ballina in partnership with As I Am, Ireland's national autism charity for the 10th of April. Earlier, Alan Morrissey spoke with Ailis Conacur, Cian Dwan, and David O'Hora from Corlann services, who are leading the walk to raise awareness, promote inclusion, and bring the community together. Image © Clare Fm

All regions of Clare with the exception of Ennis will have additional funds for roads maintenance in the coming year. Clare County Council has unveiled a €48 million funding package for municipal district works in 2026. €9 million has been set aside for the Kilrush region, indicating a 6% increase on last year. The Ennistymon area has been allocated €6.5 million, up 20% on 2025, while Killaloe's is seeing a 3% boost to just shy of €7.4 million. Shannon's share of funding has shot up by 14% to €3.3 million while Ennis is the only municipal district seeing its funding drop this year, with just €2.98 million given to the county town, showing a decrease of 12%. The funding package was unveiled to Ennis's local elected representatives at a special meeting at Áras Contae an Chláir this week. Clare FM's Seán Lyons went along and spoke to a number of elected reps, including Clarecastle Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom O'Callaghan, about their thoughts. Image © Geograph.ie

Excise duty cuts for petrol and diesel are now in effect. The Dail voted to approve reductions last night that will see petrol and diesel lowered by 15 cents and 20 cents per litre at the pumps respectively, along with additional supports for hauliers and coach services, as the Government attempts to tackle rising fuel costs. However, consumer groups are warning it may be some days before the cuts are reflected at the pumps. Retailers are allowed to get rid of older more expensive stock that was bought in before the cuts were implemented. Tánaiste Simon Harris says these cuts will be effective for all. But are these measures enough, and who really stands to benefit? To discuss, Alan Morrissey was joined by Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe and Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan. Image © atlasstudio via Canva

A Clare home heating oil supplier claims rural people are being disregarded by the Government's fuel cost reduction measures. The coalition has introduced a package that will see petrol and diesel lowered by 15 cents and 20 cents per litre at the pumps respectively, along with additional supports for hauliers and coach services. Only households already in receipt of fuel allowance will receive a weekly top up payment of €38, despite home heating oil prices doubling since the start of the Iranian conflict. PJ Ryan of PJ Ryan Oil in Sixmilebridge believes these measures do not go far enough.

A Clare healthcare campaigner claims giving more ambulances to this county will only lead to more congestion and overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick. The National Ambulance Service has confirmed the addition of five extra ambulances and 27 staff to its services here. Data from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation meanwhile shows 121 admitted patients were waiting for beds at the Dooradoyle facility this morning which was more than double the next busiest facility; St Vincent's Hospital in Dublin. Kilrush-based Friends of Ennis Hospital PRO Deirdre Culligan says the newly-allocated resources are welcome but don't get to the heart of the issue.

Brian O'Sullivan, General Manager of Dovida Clare, joined Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. During the interview, Brian discussed Dovida's National Hiring Day, taking place in Ennis this Thursday, March 26. The event offers locals the opportunity to explore rewarding careers in home care, meet staff, and learn more about supporting people in their own homes while building a flexible and meaningful career. Photo (c) Sturti Getty Images Signature via Canva

Fergal O Keeffe, Ennis native and creator of Travel Tales with Fergal Podcast spoke with Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus to tell us about travelling for musical, cultural and sporting events.

New figures show 68 people were convicted of drug offences in Ennis last year, a drop on 2024—but nationally, convictions are on the rise. To discuss what's happening both locally and across the country, Alan Morrissey was joined on Tuesday's Morning Focus by Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, Fianna Fáil Ireland South MEP. Photo (c) Pat Flynn

On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke to Avril Collentine of Cahir & Co Solicitors, Ennis in our weekly legal slot. Avril spoke about the new rental laws that came into effect on March 1st. She explained who the laws affect, what they mean for tenants and landlords, and the changes to rent increases. Image © Cahir and Co. Solicitors

With farm vehicle incidents still the leading cause of fatalities in agriculture, a new safety campaign is getting underway nationwide. The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has this week commenced a national farm safety inspection campaign focusing on the safe use of tractors, machinery, quad bikes (ATV's) and other work vehicles on farms. Vehicle-related incidents continue to be the leading cause of work-related fatalities in the agriculture sector. Joining Alan Morrisey on Morning Focus to talk about safety on the ground here in Clare were Stephen Walsh, Clare County Chair of IFA and Feakle farmer and Martin McMahon, Secretary of Clare ICSA, O'Callaghan's Mills farmer Image © Getty Images Pro

‘Clare's Stained Glass', an extensive online archive documenting the county's stained-glass heritage, will be officially launched early next week. Supported by Clare County Council's Heritage Office, the launch will take place on Tuesday, 31st March, on Zoom, from 7pm to 8pm. To find out more, Alan Morrisey was joined by Congella McGuire, Clare County Council Heritage Officer and John Glynn, Clare-based researcher and photographer. Image © Clare Fm

In the aftermath of a serious collision in County Clare, a powerful story of community spirit has emerged. Abilene Ryan, who was involved in the incident on the R469, joined Alan Morrissey on Morning Focus to talk about what happened—and the kindness she encountered in those difficult moments. File Image

There have been growing concerns around safety in Shannon following a reported assault on a child in the town park in broad daylight. The incident, shared by a local community group, has sparked renewed calls for action—particularly around the use of CCTV in public areas. Alan Morrissey was joined on Clare Fm's Morning Focus by Pat O'Gorman and Shane Doody, who have both been calling for those cameras to be switched on. Image © Delia Pindarus Images via Canva

A Clare TD expects a fresh expansion of the county's ambulance services to represent a "massive improvement". The National Ambulance Service has told a meeting of the Midwest's TDs and senators that five new ambulances will be added to the this county's fleet by the end of the year. It's also confirmed that Kilrush and Ennistymon will each have six whole-time equivalent positions added, with eight more yet to be assigned to a location, while six WTE intermediate car posts are to be created in Ennis. Bodyke Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney says it'll improve wait times which he acknowledges aren't good enough in certain parts of the county.

Another spree of illegal dumping in Clare has prompted calls for stronger enforcement. It follows the discovery of multiple mattresses and lounge furniture on farmland just off the Ballyalla Road in Ennis over the weekend, along with bags of rubbish on the N68 in Kilrush. In the first two months of this year, Clare County Council has already received 104 illegal dumping complaints. Kilmurry McMahon based Aontú Representative June Dillon says it's hugely distressing and needs to be clamped down on.

Clare FM Analyst Tommy Guilfoyle Previewing Clare v Waterford U20 Hurling

Coming up on the show: We review the weekends action and look ahead to a busy week for the Clare U20 hurlers and Spanish Point ladies footballers

Clare's ambulance service is to see a major boost to its resources later this year. In a meeting with Midwest Oireachtas members organised by Bodyke Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney today, the National Ambulance Service has confirmed that five new ambulances are to be added to this county's fleet. Additionally, 27 highly-trained staff will be assigned to locations across Clare. Tulla-based Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons while it will go "some way towards resolving" the issues with the service here, more investment is required to bring it up to an "acceptable standard".

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch sat down with Alan Morrissey to share his thoughts and views on the sporting fixtures which took place over the weekend. There will be a more in-depth analysis of these games on Monday's Sideline View from 6pm on Clare FM. Games Reviewed: NFL Division 3 (Round 7): Sligo 2-23 Clare 0-28 (Sunday, Markievicz Park) National Camogie League Division 1B Final (Round 5): Clare 2-17 Offaly 2-11 (Saturday, Ennis) Ladies NFL Division 3: Fermanagh 2-15 Clare 0-10 (Sunday, Enniskillen)

This week on the 'Future of Housing', Alan Morrissey was joined on Morning Focus by Diarmuid McMahon, President of Ennis Chamber, and auctioneer with Sherry Fitzgerald. Also joining in on the conversation was George Stavrou, Former Clare CATU Chair. Together, they explored the topic of the rental market along with principal advice. The conversation delt with current rental markets in Clare, challenges faced by tenants, landlords trends, and new rent rules. This feature, 'Future of Housing' is funding by the News Reporting Scheme.

Judy Beck from Clonroad Garden Centre joined Alan Morrissey live on Monday's Morning Focus for our regular In The Garden slot. This week, Judy spoke about the topic of lawns. If you have any questions for Judy, text or WhatsApp 0861800964.

Coming up this March 28th and 29th, get ready for a wonderful evening of classic Irish theatre as Quin Players take to the stage. Featuring the much-loved one-act plays The Workhouse Ward and The Tinkers' Wedding, this lively double bill is packed with humor, heart, and unforgettable characters. Directed by Frank Murphy, it's all happening at St. Fineen's Hall. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with Patricia Foley and Mike Daffy on Monday's Morning Focus.

Plans for a major gas facility in County Clare are continuing to generate debate, with a proposed floating LNG terminal in the Shannon Estuary being described by supporters as vital for energy security—but criticised by others as a step backwards on climate action. A public meeting on the issue is taking place this Sunday in Ennis, aimed at informing people and building opposition to the project. Alan Morrissey was joined by Dr Sinéad Sheehan from Futureproof Clare on Monday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Gas Networks Ireland

Have you seen, read or heard about Inside The Manosphere? Louis Theroux's new Netflix documentary is shining a light on the rise of so-called “manosphere” culture online, and the influence of figures like Andrew Tate on young men. It has sparked a wider debate about misogyny, social media, and the pressures facing a new generation. Clare-based singer-songwriter, Steo Wall has been reflecting on Inside The Manosphere and toxic masculinity in a powerful opinion piece. To discuss this further, he joined Alan Morrissey in-studio. Alan was also joined by two young men from the Fishbowl youth club in Scariff, Jakob Kurtz and Kumar Rubin. Image © Netflix

Credit unions are playing an increasingly important role in the mortgage market, with lending reaching record levels and close to €1 billion now issued in home loans. It comes as more people look for alternatives to traditional banks, with credit unions highlighting competitive rates and a more personal approach. Alan Morrissey was joined in studio by Louis Faye from St Francis Credit Union in Ennis to find out more. Image © Clare Fm

A rare bit of good news now for nature lovers, one of Europe's most iconic birds, the Eurasian crane, is making a remarkable return to Ireland, even beginning to breed here again in recent years. A talk taking place in Kilkee this week will explore that story and what it means for wildlife more broadly. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Clare-based ecologist and bird expert, Chris Cullen. Image © West Clare Wildlife Club

Dale Watson is taking on 23 kilometres every week for four weeks (March 21st to April 18th) in aid of Brain Tumour Ireland, all in memory of his friend, Ennis native and former local soccer player, Dylan White. Dylan sadly passed away at just 23. It's a challenge that not only pushes physical limits, but also carries deep personal meaning, highlighting the impact Dylan had on those around him, and the vital work being done to support individuals and families affected by brain tumours across Ireland. Dale joined Alan Morrissey in-studio to tell us more. You can donate using the link below. https://braintumourireland.enthuse.com/pf/dale-watson?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZnRzaAQt7D1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZA8xMjQwMjQ1NzQyODc0MTQAAacRmb9wJLlUR23U8f63YSTd0JYZ49ZVquI1lTTkQphn8NYxrlLtcAB6WMn2bQ_aem_35MsDkpl_-i85KyccXeToA

European leaders met in Brussels late last week for a summit to tackle the sharp rise in energy prices, driven in part by ongoing instability in the Middle East. The EU is now looking at a range of measures, including cutting electricity taxes and allowing governments more flexibility to support households and businesses. But what will that mean for people here in Ireland—and what should our representatives be pushing for at European level? Alan Morrissey was joined by Ireland South MEPs, Independent Michael McNamara and Fianna Fáil's Billy Kelleher to find out. Image © Getty Images via Canva

The firm behind a major renewable energy development in Clare says a new multi-million investment will have a tangible impact on this county. The European Investment Bank has agreed to give a €100 million project finance loan to a holding company of Power Capital which is carrying out four utility-scale photovoltaic across Ireland. One of these is the 99.5-megawatt Manusmore Solar Farm west of Quin village, for which shovels are expected to enter the ground this month. Power Capital CEO Justin Brown says it's already creating local jobs.

It's claimed households across Clare are being pushed to the pin of their collars with demands to pay exam fees. The State Examinations Commission distributed letters nationwide last week indicating that a failure to pay €109 per Junior Cert student or €116 per Leaving Cert Student could result in the withholding of exam certificates. Exam fees were reinstated in Budget 2026 for the first time following their suspension during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Clare TD and Sinn Féin Further and Higher Education Spokesperson Donna McGettigan says it's an insult to struggling families.

Clare football boss Paul Madden claims his side can take plenty of positives from their performance againsr Sligo following the conclusion of their National Football League campaign. A last gasp Jack Lavin score condemned The Banner to a 2-23 to 0-28 defeat in their final Division 3 game. The defeat means Clare recorded three wins and four defeats throughout the course of the National League series. Madden says despite the result there were some pleasing aspects of their performance.

A Clare TD is claiming Government policy "has worked" following the blocking of hundreds of houses from bulk sale. Over the past five years, 836 homes in Clare have been prevented from sale to a single purchaser, following changes to the planning permission system in 2021. Nationally, almost 64,000 units have been granted planning permission with conditions prohibiting bulk purchase. Meelick Fianna Fáil Deputy Cathal Crowe believes it's been a positive intervention.

Libraries in Clare are taking part in an initiative intended to help people to determine if a toxic gas is present in their home. A new collaboration between Clare Libraries, Healthy Ireland and the Environmental Protection Agency means radon gas monitors can now be borrowed from libraries across the county. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Ireland after smoking, leading to roughly 350 cases each year. Senior Executive Librarian Una Kelly says the scheme offers a "good initial guideline" to people concerned about the gas.

Fr Gerry Kenny presents Beyond Belief for 22nd March 2026

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer for 22nd March 2026

Fr Gerry leads our Sunday Prayer for today Sunday 22nd March 2026 the 5th Sunday of Lent.

A major maritime demonstration will take place on the shores of East Clare today in opposition to a large scale infrastructure project. The protest will highlight objections to Uisce Éireann's €6Bn plan to build a pipeline abstracting water from the River Shannon for use in the Midlands and Greater Dublin Area The Boat Rally event is being organised by the Lough Derg Anglers and will commence from the Ballina Slipway at 2pm, before sailing onward to the Parteen Basin. Co-Organiser Cllr Phyll Bugler believes the proposal is deeply flawed. You can listen to the full interview here:

Fresh concern has been raised over the lack of visibility on a bridge near a popular Clare amenity. At this month's meeting of Ennis's local elected representatives, Mayor of Ennis and Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard has highlighted her concern regarding the lack of lighting on the Droichead na Gabhair bridge located close to Lees Road. The proposed LIHAF project between the Claureen Roundabout and Drumcliffe Road would include the installation of new public lighting which would end approximately 70 metres west from the bridge. Ennis Municipal District will explore the possibility of lighting the bridge which Councillor Howard believes could prevent a future accident.

It's claimed the rollout of fibre broadband connections to parts of rural Clare will be "game-changing". €89 million has now been invested in Clare to ensure rural areas can avail of a high-speed connection. The Lisdoonvarna, Milltown Malbay and Rahey Cross areas are due to be connected to the NBI network later this year, with almost 2,500 Kilrush residents connected this week. NBI CEO TJ Malone says it will help rejuvenate the local communities.

Coming up, we will be looking ahead to Clare's final game of this years National Football League when they travel to Sligo on Sunday afternoon. Clare's camogie and ladies football sides are also in action, while we will also be starting a new series focusing on the GAA clubs of the county, beginning with the dual county champions.

Formed by Rob McDonnell (vocals/guitar) alongside Baz Daly (bass) and Justin Capocci (drums), with former Keeley guitarist Dan Kane later completing the lineup, Kampala have quietly built a reputation as one of Ireland's most compelling underground guitar bands — balancing dark-edged atmosphere with driving, melodic immediacy. Drawing inspiration from several decades of iconic sounds, the band's music carries echoes of Depeche Mode, The Cure, Smashing Pumpkins, Suede, Seattle Grunge, Johnny Marr, Joy Division, Gang of Four, DIIV, Interpol, Foals, among others. In more recent times, the band have also been influenced by contemporary artists such as Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital, NewDad, The Twilight Sad, Osees, Lo Moon, The War On Drugs, Deep Sea Diver to name but a few. Since 2022, Kampala have built their following through relentless gigging across Ireland and Germany, earning a reputation for intense, immersive live shows. With Madernity, Kampala step fully into their identity — a band documenting the present moment with grit, melody and intent. The album's fourth single and emotional centerpiece, “It's Not Me, It's You” explores the liberating moment of recognising toxicity in a relationship. It's both personal and universal — a sharp contrast to the album's broader social lens. Written late in the album process, the track earned its place instantly. “The chorus hook was irresistible. As soon as we heard it, we knew it had to be on the record.” Recorded in a single live take like the rest of the album, it captures Kampala at their most immediate and emotionally direct.

A Clare hotelier has expressed hope for a significant boost to the local economy in 2026 following a 40% reduction in the number of the county's hotels being used for housing asylum seekers. Over 1,500 tourism beds have been freed up in the county since February 2025, with 13 fewer hotels in the county now contracted for accommodating Ukrainian refugees. Research carried out by Fáilte Ireland found that for every euro spent by tourists on accommodation in Clare, €2.50 was spent on ancillary services across the county. Clare Tourism Advisory Forum Chair, Sean Lally, has been telling Clare FM's Darragh O'Grady that tourists will be inclined to spend more if room prices drop due to increased supply.

A Clare farmer is hoping to be a voice for women in agriculture, inspiring greater participation and leadership across the sector. Carina Roseingrave has been appointed as Ireland's ambassador for the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026, in a move seen as a major achievement for both her local community and the wider farming sector. Farming at Burren View Farm in Crusheen, Carina was selected from a strong group of finalists and will now take on a national role highlighting the vital contribution of women in agriculture. Carina believes working together is key to securing a positive future for the agricultural sector.

People across Clare are being encouraged to nominate young people for the Garda Youth Awards, which celebrate acts of courage, leadership, and goodwill. The awards, held in conjunction with Shannon Airport, are open to young people aged 13-21 who either live or go to school in Clare. The closing date for nominations is next Friday March 27th and winners will also be put forward for the national awards ceremony. Inspector Helen Costello, who's based at Ennis Garda Station emphasises the importance of recognising the resilience and positive contributions of young people in the community.

Young entrepreneurs from across Clare showcased their creativity and innovation at this year's Clare Student Enterprise Final, with standout projects in digital marketing, sports technology and woodcraft taking top honours. Held at Tracey's West County Hotel in Ennis, the event highlighted the impressive talent of secondary school students, as winning teams from St Flannan's College and St John Bosco, Kildysart, earned the opportunity to represent Clare at the upcoming Student Enterprise Programme National Final in May. I For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by, Senior Enterprise Development Officer at LEO Clare, Theresa Mulvihill Killeen, Jack Heyes & Sean Daly from JSU Marketing, Donncha Cleary from Straight Gain and Addison Kelly from Rebound X Intermediate.

An icon of Irish traditional music will be laid to rest today, Friday 20th. Dolores Keane passed away peacefully on Monday at the age of 72. Born into a family steeped in traditional music and song, the Galway native was the vocalist in the original Dé Danann lineup before she launched her solo career which yielded five albums. Best known for her interpretations of songs like ‘Caledonia', ‘Galway Bay' and ‘The Island', she was presented with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the TG4 Gradam Ceoil awards ceremony in 2022. American country legend Nanci Griffith called her “the queen of the soul of Ireland” and described her voice as “sacred”. A number of years ago, Dolores took part in Clare FM's annual show 'In My Own Words'. Eoin O'Neill, the presenter of the West Wind joined Alan Morrissey to pay a tribute.

Following a recent outbreak of meningitis in parts of the UK, Ennis GP Dr Máire Finn is urging parents to stay informed and recognise the early warning signs of this serious illness. While the Health Service Executive says there is currently no indication of increased meningococcal disease in Ireland, cases remain at expected seasonal levels, with 12 reported so far in 2026 compared to 60 last year. The outbreak in Kent, where 27 cases have been linked to a university and two people have died, has raised awareness of how quickly meningitis can spread and why early detection is crucial. To discuss this in detail, Alan Morrisseyw as joined by Dr Máire Finn from the Ennis Family Medical Centre.

The haulage industry is holding off on protest action following talks with the Transport Minister, who has promised “substantial supports” to help with soaring fuel costs. The threat of protest action had loomed, with diesel prices surging past €2 a litre and the haulage sector saying it's in crisis. However, hauliers have stepped back from protest action for now after what's been described as a constructive meeting with Darragh O'Brien. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with Ennis-based haulier and Deputy President of the Irish Road Haulage Association, Eugene Drennan.