Clare FM - Podcasts

It's a busy time across County Clare for Christmas markets! On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey caught up with organisers from Mountshannon, Broadford, Kilrush, Lahinch, Kilkee, and Miltown Malbay to hear what locals and visitors can look forward to at this year's festive markets. Alan spoke with Frank Bouchier in Mountshannon, Karen O'Connor in Broadford, Brid Meaney in Kilrush, Susan Harrington in Lahinch, Deborah Hickie in Kilkee and Neil Hynes in Miltown Malbay. Photo (c) Oleksandr P from Pexels via Canva

The West Clare Cancer Centre has honoured long-time supporter Matt Keating, presenting him with a special appreciation award for his many years of dedicated fundraising. The gesture, made by Mary McGrath and the team, recognises the vital role Matt has played in helping the centre continue its outstanding work supporting people in West Clare affected by cancer. Alan Morrissey spoke with Matt on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) West Clare Cancer Facebook

On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Tommy Corbett from Carey Corbett Financial Solutions. This week, Tommy spoke to us about how a person can make the most of increased earnings and avoiding so-called 'Lifestyle Creeps'.

County Clare has been awarded the title of European Volunteering Capital 2027. The Banner County was awarded the title by the Centre of European Volunteering (CEV) at the European Volunteering Capital Winner announcement, in Barcelona. Clare now joins a distinguished list of previous European Volunteering Capitals, including Barcelona, Lisbon, London, Berlin and Gdansk. Sligo was the only Irish winner to date, in 2017. For more on this exciting news, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sharon Meaney, Manager at Clare Volunteer Centre on Wednesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Clare County Council

Transport Infrastructure Ireland is being accusing of being "asleep at the wheel" regarding the surge in road traffic collisions on the main route between Ennis and Limerick. More than 35 crashes have taken place on the Clare stretch of the M18 motorway and N18 dual-carriageway since the start of September, with the vast majority occurring between Junction 11 Dromoland and Junction 5 Cratloe. The TII has recently committed to a conducing a review which will examine the cause of the incidents and recommend safety measures. Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman wants to see average speed cameras to deter unsafe driver behaviour.

Eilish McCarthy has just published her memoir, "Two Islands", about growing up in County Clare. Eilish shares about her youth spent between Liscannor, the Aran Islands and boarding in an Ennis school It will be launched this Saturday the 6th of December at 7pm in McHughs, Liscannor. Alan Morrissey spoke with Eilish McCarthy on Wednesday's Morning Focus.

Management at University Hospital Limerick have asked the public to first consider all available healthcare alternatives before attending the Emergency Department there, which is currently prioritising treatment of the sickest, most seriously injured and frailest patients. This follows the huge demand the Dooradoyle facility has experienced for its services. In the 24 hours between Monday and Tuesday, upwards of 350 people attended the Emergency Department there in the past 24 hours. For more on this, HSE Mid-West Regional Executive Officer Sandra Broderick joined Alan Morrissey on Morning Focus. Photo (c) Clare FM

Clare farmers have taken an over €2 million share of a fund to support the welfare of suckler calves. Payments of €28 million have been commenced under the Beef Welfare Scheme 2025 with €2.34 million awarded in the county as a result of 1,878 successful applications. The scheme is intended to support farmers in meal feeding suckler calves before and after weaning, vaccinating against diseases and carrying out testing measures such as forage analysis or faecal egg count. Feakle-based chairperson of the Clare branch of the Irish Farmers Association Stephen Walsh says while the payments are welcome, it's disappointing that they're lower than promised.

It's claimed Clare people are living a reduced quality of life due to a lack of research into women's health. The Oireachtas Heart and Stroke Group, founded by Clare TD Cathal Crowe and Ardnacrusha resident Pauline O'Shea has called on the Government to implement targeted actions to improve knowledge of female cardiac issues. According to the Irish Heart Foundation, there are 6,920 women in this county living with a heart condition. Irish Heart Foundation Advocacy Campaign Manager and Heart patient, Pauline O'Shea says there are several challenges to overcome.

The great Colm Liddy, author and local historian was back on Tuesday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey for another episode of History In Focus. This week, Colm told us the fascinating story of how Daniel O'Connell rose to fame. Photo (c) Colm Liddy

The Friends of Regina House, Kilrush, have received approximately (according to Regina House) €47,000 in donations thanks to the tireless fundraising of Paddy Kelly and his fellow cyclists. Regina House provides essential, compassionate care for older people in West Clare, and community support like this plays a vital role in sustaining its services and comfort for residents. Paddy, who is no stranger to lengthy, major cycles – having cycled through England last year – cycled from Mizen Head to Malin Head during late August, all with the aim of raising vital funds for the invaluable work carried out by Regina House. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Paddy Kelly and John Bonfil, Member of the Friends of Regina House Committee. Photo (c) iDonate

Fianna Fáil has published the combined findings of its Parenting in the Digital Age survey and its Youth Online Safety Workshop in conjunction with Foróige and Crosscare, revealing deep concern among parents about children's exposure to online risks, alongside new evidence showing just how young children are when they first enter the digital world. The survey of almost 1,000 participants, carried out by Fianna Fáil's parliamentary party working group, shows that families are struggling to keep pace with fast-changing digital technologies and the online environments their children inhabit. To discuss this in more detail, Alan Morrissey had a chat with Cathal Crowe, Meelick Fianna Fail TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Education and Youth on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Digital Leaders

Two young changemakers from Co Clare have been selected for one of Ireland's most prestigious activism programmes. Matthew Butt from Ennis and Georgina Johnston from Miltown Malbay are among just 21 people chosen for the Alice Academy for Activists, a four-day residential bootcamp in Dublin this January that supports emerging campaigners with strategic skills and expert training. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Matthew Butt, from Ennis and Martina Quinn, the founder and CEO of Alice Public Relations. Photo (c) Alice PR

Clare Haven Services is marking the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign running from the 25th of November to the 10th of December to raise awareness and call for an end to violence against women and girls. The organisation is reminding the public of the vital frontline, prevention and support work taking place here in Clare. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Eva Cummins, Fundraising & Administration at Clare Haven Services. Image (c) Clare Haven

Limerick is getting set for one of the biggest sporting and social events of the season as the Mr Binman Christmas Racing Festival returns this December, from the 26th to the 29th. The four-day festival will feature top-class racing, family festivities, and a packed entertainment programme — including a newly confirmed K-Pop Demon Hunters Sing-Along Tribute Band in the Big Top on the 29th of December. This year's Ladies Day will also see a Most Stylish Lady crowned. For more on this, Alan Morrissey spoke with Michael Lynch, CEO Limerick Racecourse. Photo (c) Limerick Races

A prostate cancer support group in Ardnacrusha is offering vital help to men and their families, thanks to the work of founder Tony Bridgeman, who set it up in April 2023. Among those involved is Phelim Warren, a cancer survivor whose own diagnosis came as a shock despite having no symptoms. His story highlights the importance of regular blood tests, early detection and open conversations around men's health. To find out more, Alan Morissey was joined by Tony Bridgeman and Pheilim Warren on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Join the prostate cancer support group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1380816599365491 Photo: (c) Clare fm/ Pheilim Warren/ logo from Prostate Cancer Support Group Ireland via Facebook.

Volodymyr Zelensky visits Ireland today, in the first state visit by a Ukrainian President to the country. It comes as the Government is to approve an additional one hundred million euro in non-lethal aid to Ukraine. This morning Mr. Zelenskyy will make a courtesy call to President Catherine Connolly. From there he'll joint press conference with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, before addressing the Oireachtas. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Mariya Nikishanova, who's originally from Irpin and moved to Ennis a decade ago and Donnacha Ó Beacháin, Newmarket-on-Fergus native and Professor of Politics at Dublin City University. Photo (c) Яна Леоненко from Pexels via Canva

A Clare architect is accusing the Government of making a "superficial effort" to fix the planning process. The Cabinet is to be briefed on proposals this week on putting caps on the legal costs those behind judicial reviews can claim from the State. Under the plans, the limit for a standard case would be €41,000 while for complex cases it would be €53,350, and €65,800 would be the maximum for a very complex case. Ogonnelloe-based architect Garry Miley believes the proposed legislation serves no one.

It's hoped Clare will see the benefits of a new airline route development plan. As part of the 'New Era for Irish Tourism Strategy' launched by the Government yesterday, a commitment has also been made to roll-out a Strategic Air Access Programme to develop new airline routes. The programme will aim to increase visitor numbers in the off-peak May to October season. Clare Tourism Advisory Chair and Hotel Woodstock Co-Owner Seán Lally says it's hugely important.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch and Tommy Guilfoyle were back to give us their thoughts and reactions from a busy weekend of GAA fixtures. Games Reviewed: Munster Senior Club HC Final: Éire Óg 1-9 Ballygunner 0-21 (Sunday, FBD Semple Stadium) Munster Intermediate Club HC Final: O'Callaghan's Mills 0-15 Upperchurch Drombane 3-20 (Saturday, TUS Gaelic Grounds) As broadcast on Monday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey

On this week's episode of In The Garden with Judy Beck, from Clonroad Garden Centre, Judy explained to our listeners the best ways to grow strawberries. If you have any questions for Judy, contact the show on 0818 400 964 or send a text or WhatsApp to 086 1800 964.

Nigel Motyer is an international award-winning underwater photographer who has been diving and photographing Irish seas since the 1980s. His photography has featured in many publications worldwide, including National Geographic. Nigel's latest book Beneath Irish Seas features the waters and wild marine life around Clare extensively. Photo (c) Easons

Siobhán Mulcahy, County Arts Officer was back on Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey to chat to us on the huge number of events that are taking place right across the county.

Midwest Simon says it's trying to find space for as many people in Clare as possible this winter but admits its accommodation here is at full capacity. The latest Department of Housing figures show 171 families were residing in emergency accommodation in this region in October, showing a rise of 34% in the last year. A total of 85 adults were availing of homeless services in Clare in the month in question which is up from 76 a month ago. Midwest Simon CEO Niall Garvey has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons they've been forced to increase their capacity due to the surge in demand during the winter months.

Half of consumers are planning to cut back on presents this Christmas. That is according to the latest Credit Union Consumer Sentiment Index. It also reveals that the number of people using savings to fund the festive season is up. The global outlook has settled slightly, but household finances are coming under sustained pressure. To delve into this further, Alan Morrissey was joined in studio by Louis Faye of St Francis Credit Union, Ennis. Photo (c) Umkreisel from pixabay / Max Fischer from Pexels

The Clare Roots Society, in collaboration with Larry Brennan, is publishing “Clare Road, Ennis.” This book contains a rich collection of articles, poetry, maps, land records, residents' recollections, and photographs tracing the life and history of one of Ennis's most well-known thoroughfares. The launch of “Clare Road, Ennis” will take place this Thursday the 4th of December. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by author Larry Brennan on Monday's Morning Focus.

Jack Byrnes has once more teamed up with his young friend and neighbour in O'Briensbridge, Mark Ryan, to create hand-made reindeer. Now in its sixth year, the annual endeavour for the pair is all for a good cause. Last year they raised €2,700 for charities. This year proceeds will be split between Killaloe/Ballina Search and Recovery, Novas charity in Limerick, Community first responders group and Children's Appeal for Gaza. Alan Morrissey was joined in studio by Jack Byrnes for more on this.

The latest Transport Sectoral Implementation Report under the National Development Plan (NDP) has been published, but there's next to nothing of Clare interest in it. The report outlines the national road projects expected to advance before 2030. While several counties across Ireland have multiple strategic schemes progressing, Clare is almost entirely absent. West Clare does not feature at all, nor the works required in Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus, to alleviate flooding, or the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station. Is Clare being sidelined or ignored? Alan Morrissey was joined by Newmarket on Fergus Fianna Fáil Councillor, David Griffin and Crusheen Resident, Michael O'Doherty for their views on this. Photo of Ballycar Flooding (c) File Photo

The manager of the Éire Óg hurlers is hailing the strength of the opposition as they came up short in their attempts to capture the Munster crown. The Waterford cemented themseleves as the kingpins of Munster hurling with a 0-21 to 1-9 win over the Clare champions to claim their fifth provincial title in seven years. The Townies attempted to rally late with a Danny Russel goal from a penalty, while a reflex save from former All Star, Stephen O'Keefe denied them a second. Éire Óg boss, Gerry O'Connor says, while he was pleased not to concede goals, they couldn't cope with Ballygunner's scoring power in the middle third.

The Minister for Transport claims the Government is "in good shape" regarding the prevention of flooding on a section of the Ennis to Limerick rail line but has given no commitment to funding the project. Responding to a parliamentary question from Meelick Fianna Fáil Deputy Cathal Crowe recently, Darragh O'Brien pledged to engage with the Office of Public Works on reconvening the steering group behind a report on legacy flooding in Ballycar outside Newmarket-on-Fergus. The response also suggested that the project would be included in the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan published last week but this hasn't come to fruition. Speaking at Shannon Airport, Minister O'Brien says funding for projects of this nature will be confirmed in a separate announcement next year.

O'Callaghan's Mills manager Sean Doyle claims the referee 'lost composure' as his side fell to defeat in the Munster Intermediate Hurling decider. The East Clare men saw their quest for provincial glory come up short in the TUS Gaelic Grounds, with Upperchurch Drombane running out 3-20 to 0-15 winners. The Mills were reduced to 13 men early in the second half following two quick fire dismissals, and finished the game with 12 players after a third red card was brandished in the dying stages. Doyle says although he's proud of the manor in which his players battled on, the sendings off ruined the game as a contest.

A date for the full transfer of governance of a West Clare nursing home to the HSE has been set. At the most recent meeting of the Regional Health Forum West, HSE Midwest has confirmed the target completion date of the transfer of business legal agreement for St Senan's Nursing Home in Kilrush is May 2026. The centre, which currently cares for 20 residents, has been subject to significant capital upgrades as part of a €2 million investment from the HSE in January 2024. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney says it's crucial to get one of the cornerstones of West Clare back to full operating capacity.

A wave of festive spirit is set to hit Shannon this week with the turning on of the town's Christmas lights. The occasion will be held in Shannon Town Park on Monday December 1st, with festivities kicking off at 5:30pm. Events include festive music by DJ Chris Walshe and carol singing from the Shannon Gospel Choir before special guests Santa & Mrs. Claus make an appearance. Fine Gael Councillor, John Crowe, it's a special occasion for everyone in the town, not just children.

On Atlantic Tales this Sunday, Pat meets the daughter and mother team who produce eco soy-wax scented candles. Set up by Chloe Whelan during the pandemic, she has been joined in the business by mum Geraldine who previously ran a fast-food outlet in Newmarket on Fergus for 27 years.

It's claimed the Health Minister's recommendations on HIQA's review of emergency care capacity in the Midwest do nothing to help people in Clare. Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has committed to progressing the expansion of capacity at University Hospital Limerick and the extension of the campus to another nearby site. A decision on the development of a new model 3 hospital in this region is to be taken in the new year. Kilrush-based former county councillor and Friends of Ennis Hospital spokesperson Deirdre Culligan says the minister's plans are particularly unhelpful to those in the west of the county.

A Clare carer says the cost of abolishing the means test would represent "good value for money" for the Government. A new report from the Parliamentary Budget Office estimates the highest net cost of abolishing the test at €266 million, short of the €650 million suggested by Social Protection Minister Dara Calleary in the aftermath of the budget. The report also states 19,561 additional carers nationwide would become eligible for the scheme, if the means test was abolished with approximately 700 of those based in Clare. Bunratty native, Sinéad O'Brien, claims it's high time carers were rewarded for the work they do.

Fr Brendan Quinlivan presents Beyond Belief for Sunday 30th November 2025. In a busy programme Fr Brendan talks to the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust ahead of the Cantare Christmas Concert in aid of the trust in Ennis Cathedral on 19th December. He also has reports on the recent John Paul ll awards and how money raised by the pilgrims to Lourdes in support of Gazza will be distributed.

Fr Gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer for today the First Sunday of Advent. He is assisted by the pupils from Moyasta National School in Kilkee Parish 

Donal Carey has been honoured as a 'great father, husband, politician and GAA stalwart at his funeral mass this morning The former Clare TD and Minister of State is being laid to rest today following a ceremony in Clarecastle Church. Objects were brought forward, including an election poster, Clarecastle jersey and dog collar to symbolise his love of politics, family, Gaelic games, greyhound racing and coursing. Donal's son Joe, says he'll be remembered in particular, for the confidence he could instil in people.

Clare's Minister of State claims a new Government funding allocation will bring the "toing and froing" on two Clare sewerage schemes to an end. The Department of Housing has announced an additional €700,000 for the Broadford sewerage scheme as part of the Multi-annual Rural Water Programme, bringing its total funding to €8 million. The amount awarded to Cooraclare meanwhile stands at €5.7 million. The inclusion of the schemes in the programme was confirmed in December of 2023, and Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley believes this development brings them a step closer.

The Transport Minister has pledged to support Shannon Airport as it strives to expand its offering. The Clare base has celebrated a major milestone with the dual unveiling of Ireland's first airfield-located solar PV farm and an extension to its European Boarding Gates. The projects have come about as a result of a €6.6 million combined investment by the Shannon Airport Group. Speaking at the unveiling, Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien says he appreciates the strategic importance of the Clare facility.

A total of 13 dogs were surrendered to the Clare Dog Shelter in a single day this week. The seven adult male dogs and six puppies were brought to Clare's County Dog Warden on Monday. The animals have been vaccinated and assessed by a vet, and have been brought to rescues in East Clare, Tipperary and Limerick. Frankie Coote says it's not unusual.

Ahead of their Munster club hurling finals, Clare FM's Derek Dormer spoke with the Eire Óg and O'Callaghan's Mills camps to look ahead to a massive weekend of action

On this weeks show We focus on previewing the Munster Club SHC & IHC finals, and we have Greyhound Focus too

With her rootsy Americana sound and modern country edge, Sionán delivers everything she represents: honest storytelling, heartfelt ballads, and country-pop melodies built to move. It's the beginning of a new voice that speaks straight to the heart, and it's only the beginning. From a recent debut at Nashville's iconic Bluebird Café to a showcase slot at industry-tastemaker event Your Roots Are Showing - and with plenty of tracks to boot - Sionán's debut single ‘No Revival' leads the charge as she stakes her claim in the new era of country storytelling. With a hook that teases its unforgettable chorus and a guitar growling like a lone outlaw, ‘No Revival' rides in like a scene torn from a Modern Western, setting the stage for a raw, emotionally charged story of betrayal, heartbreak, and the bitter truth of romance unravelling. Stripped-back verses and authentic, roots-driven delivery pull you into the moment, before the powerhouse chorus kicks in - a blend of stomping backbeats, gunslinger riffs, and biting lyrical honesty. It's tongue-in-cheek, sophisticated, and deeply felt - part Carly Pearce "Truck on Fire", part Miley's “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart,” - the track then seamlessly shifts into a brass-fuelled Latin rhythm section with a New Orleans jazz flair, akin to Beyoncés "Daddy Lessons", and leaves the listener with a lasting impression long after the last note lingers. Written from the real-life moment of walking in on a partner, drunk at a bar and in someone else's arms, Sionán shares: “It's the gut-punch of realising someone you trusted has broken that bond. The song came from a moment of devastation, but also from the strength it takes to face that kind of truth head-on. For me, writing ‘No Revival' was about turning heartbreak into something that could speak to others who've been there." One for both the girls and the boys, 'No Revival' will connect with anyone who's ever been blindsided when the drinks are flowing & the truth comes out, caught in that all-too-familiar twist of love gone wrong. Think Yellowstone meets Virgin River for the backdrop; it delivers that modern Western edge with emotional depth. A standout debut sure to resonate with fans of the rising new-wave modern country movement, 'No Revival' is out on all platforms now.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch was in-studio to chat with Alan Morrissey on Friday's Morning Focus about two major games that are taking place over the weekend. Games Previewed: Munster Senior Club HC Final: Éire Óg v Ballygunner (Sunday, FBD Semple Stadium, 3pm) Munster Intermediate Club HC Final: O'Callaghan's Mills v Upperchurch Drombane (Saturday, TUS Gaelic Grounds, 5pm)

A 10-year-old Clare artist has taken home a major national award at the AIB Young Portrait Prize at the National Gallery of Ireland. Michael Ryan, from Kilmaley, has won the 7–11 age category for his striking painted portrait In Deep Thought, unveiled during a prize-giving ceremony at the Gallery. His work is now on public display as part of the Young Portrait Prize exhibition, which runs until 15 March 2026 Alan Morrissey was delighted to have a chat with Michael live in-studio on Friday's Morning Focus.

Kilkishen is preparing for a brilliant weekend of creativity and flavour as the Artisan Craft & Food Festival returns to the Cultural Centre on the 29th and 30th of November. Live in-studio on Friday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey were event organisers Caroline O'Riordan and Bernadette Ballarin.

Doonbeg is set for a big day of festive community spirit this Sunday at Doonbeg Hall all in aid of Clare Haven. To find out what to expect, Alan Morrissey spoke with the organiser Karen McInerney. Photo (c) Karen McInerney

There's growing concern this week following the confirmed spread of the invasive Demon shrimp across several locations along the River Shannon and Lough Derg. After the species was first detected below Lough Derg, further surveys have now identified it in Killaloe, Dromineer, Garrykennedy, Terryglass, Rossmore, Mountshannon, Portumna and even as far as Lough Ree. The predator species poses a serious risk to the ecology of local freshwater systems, prompting fresh warnings for communities and water users. On Friday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Cllr Pat Burke, Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor. Photo (c) Clare County Council Facebook

The Mayor of Clare has claimed that commercial rates have been raised “for the greater good of the county”, although Cllr Paul Murphy did say the decision hasn't been taken lightly. The controversial measure, which will see the property tax on commercial premises increased by 8%, is included in Clare County Council's largest-ever revenue budget of €204 million, which has been adopted by elected members at a special meeting this week. It's the third time the local authority has taken such a measure, and has been backed by its Director of Finance, Investment and Enterprise Noeleen Fitzgerald, who explained on Thursday';s show that over 75% of businesses will see an increase of under €6 in their weekly amount owed. However, Ennis Chamber highlighted their opposition to the increase on Wednesday's Morning Focus, with its president Diarmuid McMahon of Sherry Fitzgerald McMahon, believing a reduction in rates is in order, rather than a hike. To hear from some of the businesses in this county on the commercial rates increase, Alan Morrissey spoke with Frank Landy, Sweet n Green in Ennis and Robert Kennedy, Operates Spar in Lahinch on Friday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Pat Flynn