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One of the biggest earthquakes in modern history has been picked up in North Clare. A magnitude 8.8 event struck the Kamchatka peninsula on Russia's Pacific coast last night, prompting evacuation orders in a nearby port town as well as in Japan where two million were advised to vacate to higher ground. The quake, which is the largest since 2004's magnitude 9.1 event near Indonesia's Sumatra Island which prompted a tsunami that killed roughly 220,000 people, was captured by the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark's seismometer in Ennistymon. Geologist with the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, Dr Eamon Doyle says while it's early days, it doesn't seem to have caused serious damage so far.

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 30ú lá de mí Iúil, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1982 dúradh leis an cheardchumann CIE go raibh siad chun pinsean níos fearr a bheith acu ag dul ar aghaidh. I 1985 bhí an buiséad a tháinig an rialtas amach leis go dona agus de bharr sin chaill 20 mhíle duine a bpost. I 1982 chun an lá saoire bainc í mí Lúnasa a cheiliúradh tháinig an club iománaíocht I dTuath Ó gConaíle amach ag rá go raibh siad chun beárbaiciú mór a dhéanamh. I 1988 bhí na daoine a raibh ina chónaí I gCill Chaoi ag an am ar buile nuair a chaill a thráth an bhratach ghorm. Sin Yazz & The Plastic Population le The Only Way Is Up – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1988. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 2003 chan The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Rush, The Guess Who, Justin Timberlake, The Flaming Lips, Sass Jordan agus The Isley Brothers cheolchoirm charthanachta I Toronto chun cruthú go raibh an chathair sábháilte ó SARS. I 2006 tháinig Shakira amach lena amhrán Hips Don't Lie agus shroich sí uimhir a haon sa Bhreatain agus d'fhan sí ann ar feadh ceithre sheachtain. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh Finneas O'Connell I Meiriceá I 1997 agus rugadh aisteoir Lisa Kudrow I Meiriceá ar an lá seo I 1963 agus seo chuid de na rudaí a rinne sí. Beidh mé ar ais libh amárach le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 30th of July, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1982: CIE Unions were told that they would receive better pensions 1985: Bad government budgeting led to the loss of 20,000 jobs 1982: To celebrate the August Bank Holiday Ogonnelloe hurling club announced that they would be hosting a monster barbeque. 1988: Kilkee locals were outraged when their Blue flag was stripped from Kilkee Beach. That was Yazz and The Plastic Population with The Only Way Is Up – the biggest song on this day in 1988 Onto music news on this day In 2003 The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, Rush, The Guess Who, Justin Timberlake, The Flaming Lips, Sass Jordan and The Isley Brothers played a benefit concert in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, to prove that the city is safe from SARS. 2006 Shakira feat Wyclef Jean started a four week run at No.1 on the UK singles chart with ‘Hips Don't Lie.' And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – Music Producer Finneas O'Connell was born in America in 1997 and actress Lisa Kudrow was born in America on this day in 1963 and this is some of the stuff she has done. I'll be back with you tomorrow with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 1ú lá de mí Mheán Fómhair, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1978 cheap daoine go raibh an Fhéile Rose of Tralee chun nach mór 2 milliúin punt a thabhairt isteach. I 1988 chuaigh na bpáistí ar ais chuig an scoil agus bhí bagairt ann go mbeadh cur isteach mór de bharr gearradh siar ar na múinteoirí agus go mbeadh fadhb leis an chlár ama. I 1988 ghoid duine 7 míle punt ón chlub galf I Lahinch. I 2005 bhuaigh na Wolfe Tones I gcoinne Newmarket on Fergus 2-16 go dtí 11 pointe sa chraobhchomórtas iománaíochta. Sin The Commodores le Three Times A Lady – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1978. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 2002 fuair Coldplay a dara huimhir a haon sa Bhreatain lena halbam A Rush Of Blood To The Head. I 2005 fuair Barry Cowsill, giotáraí The Cowsills – bás ó ghortú a fuair sé ó Hairicín Katrina. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh Dr Phil I Meiriceá I 1950 agus rugadh amhránaí Gloria Estefan I gCúba ar an lá seo I 1957 agus seo chuid de amhrán. Beidh mé ar ais libh amárach le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 1st of September, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1978: The Rose of Tralee festival was reported to bring in £2m 1988: Children returned to school with the threat of serious disruption due to teacher cut backs and time table difficulties. 1988: £7,000 was stolen from Lahinch golf club. 2005: Wolfe Tones got the best of Newmarket on Fergus and went on to beat them 2-16 to 0-11 in the Senior Hurling Championship group stages. That was The Commodores with Three Times A Lady – the biggest song on this day in 1978 Onto music news on this day In 2002 Coldplay scored their second UK No.1 album with A Rush Of Blood To The Head. 2005 Barry Cowsill, bass guitarist for The Cowsills, died from injuries caused by Hurricane Katrina. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – Dr Phil was born in America in 1950 and singer Gloria Estefan was born in Cuba on this day in 1957 and this is one of her songs. I'll be back with you tomorrow with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

One of West Clare's most vibrant cultural events is just around the corner — the Kilrush Traditional Festival returns from Thursday, July 31st to Bank Holiday Monday, August 4th. With music, dance, song, and storytelling across five packed days, it's a celebration of all things trad, right in the heart of Kilrush. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Vincent O'Halloran and Anne Hayes.

As Wexford Town gears up to host Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann this August, all eyes are on the talented musicians representing County Clare. From Broadford to Lisdoonvarna and Drumquin, Clare's rich musical heritage is alive and well in the hands of rising stars and seasoned performers alike. Brian Cavanagh and Sinéad Mulqueen (Broadford), Bethan Marsh (Lisdoonvarna), and Tim Howard (Drumquin) are the names carrying Clare's musical torch as they compete for a coveted place in the All-Ireland finals.

Clare's coastal gems are now easier than ever to reach, without a car. The new TFI Local Link Route 351 connects Galway City to Doolin Pier and the Cliffs of Moher, with up to five services daily. The service opens up key Wild Atlantic Way destinations including Ballyvaughan, Fanore, and Doolin, and links with ferry departures to the Aran Islands. It's a major boost for sustainable travel and local tourism. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Liam O'Brien, owner of Doolin Ferry.

Two Shannon Companies, namely medical technology manufacturer Hooke Bio LTD and leading radar technology developer Provisio have been included in the Department of Enterprises €28m Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, which are targeting three initiatives nationwide. Firstly Hooke Bio LTD, along with the University of Galway and lIFT Biosciences have a pool of €11.9m available to them for their work in treating Metastatic Tumuors that are no longer responding to treatment. Provisio, meanwhile, along with University of Limerick and Robert Bosch Ireland LTD are developing Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and have €6.9m of funding available to them for their project which aims to achieve safer driving outcomes. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Éamonn Boland, Provizio co-founder and program lead.

Clare County Council is preparing to mark a major historical milestone next month, as it hosts a weekend of events in Ennis to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the birth of Daniel O'Connell. Known as “The Liberator,” O'Connell's legacy will be honoured through music, lectures, exhibitions, and a special community celebration. For more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Dolores Meaney, Senior Executive Libarian and Sean Lenihan, Clare County Council Senior Engineer.

The Social Democrats have criticised the Government's proposal to raise the size limit for cabins or garden homes to 45 sq.m, calling it a "half-baked plan" to relocate people into what they describe as "glorified garden sheds." The Cabinet was informed that a public consultation on the proposal to increase the permitted size for such structures to 45 sq.m will launch today. This is larger than the original suggested upper limit of 40 sq.m. Under current rules, an extension to the rear of a property is exempt from planning once it is 40 sq.m and is attached to the property. Under the plan, the units must comply with building regulations while the size of the residual private garden space of 25 sq.m must be retained and set back from boundary walls. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Timmy Dooley, Tulla-based Fianna Fáil Minister of State and Donna McGettigan, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Further and Higher Education, Shannon TD.

Shannon is set to benefit from a significant boost to its Garda resources. It comes amid confirmation that 15 new recruits from Templemore will be deployed to the district in September. It follows an escalation of anti-social behaviour in the catchment area along with a number of incidents at Shannon Airport. Clare Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley believes it will have positive knock on effects for the whole county.

A Clare member of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors' National Executive Committee insists the new Garda Commissioner must bring "stabilisation" to the force. Dublin native Justin Kelly has been appointed as successor to Drew Harris following a decision by Cabinet. The former Deputy Commissioner for Security, Strategy and Governance has been a Garda for over 30 years and previously served as Assistant Commissioner with responsibility for Serious and Organised Crime. Ennis-based Detective Sergeant Brian Howard believes the new appointee has a job of work to do to restore confidence in management among Clare members.

Clare minor ladies football vice captain Aisling Kelly claims the familiarity amongst the backline is a major reason behind the team's defensive stability. Clare secured a Munster and All Ireland double with a four point defeat of Sligo, conceding just three points from play during the game. Eimear Burke and Abbie Cahill joined Cooraclare woman Kelly in the full back line, and have played as a unit since they were part of under 12 development panels. She says the backs provided the platform for the forwards to thrive off.

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 29ú lá de mí Iúil, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1976 tháinig an nuacht amach go raibh an príosún I bPortlaoise ag gearradh siar ar daoine ag teacht chuig an áit. I 1988 rinne nach mór 10 míle duine iarratas ó 3 ilchríoch don phost a bhí 50 punt gach seachtain agus iad ag traenáil mar gharda. I 1976 fuair John McNamara ó Scariff cuireadh chun a bheith páirteach den chomórtas slogadh frog in Uíbh Fhailí de bharr go raibh sé an seaimpín de shlogadh frog. I 1988 bhí John Hannon ó Parteen ceann de na 10 mic léinn a raibh mar ionadaí d'Éire ag an 30ú comhdháil idirnáisiúnta eolaíocht I Londain. Sin Elton John agus Kiki Dee le Don't Go Breaking My Heart – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1976. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 1968 rinne The Beatles taifead ar a amhrán Hey Jude a raibh seacht nóiméad don chéad uair. I 1973 chan Led Zeppelin don tríú huair I Madison Square Garden ag deireadh den turas ceol a raibh 33 dáta. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh Joey Essex sa Bhreatain I 1990 agus rugadh aisteoir Will Wheaton I Meiriceá ar an lá seo I 1972 agus seo chuid de na rudaí a rinne sé. Beidh mé ar ais libh amárach le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 29th of July, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1976: Portlaoise jail introduced cutback on jail visits. 1988: Almost 10,000 people from 3 continents applied for the £50 a-week garda training jobs. 1976: 38 year old John McNamara from Scariff, world frog swallowing champion was invited to take part in the live frog swallowing competition in Ballycumber, Co. Offaly. 1988: John Hannon from Parteen was one of 10 students representing Ireland at the 30th international youth science fortnight in London. That was Elton John and Kiki Dee with Don't Go Breaking My Heart – the biggest song on this day in 1976 Onto music news on this day In 1968 The first recording session of The Beatles seven-minute epic ‘Hey Jude' took place. 1973 Led Zeppelin played the last of three nights at Madison Square Garden, New York at the end of a 33-date North American tour. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – Joey Essex with born in the UK in 1990 and actor Will Wheaton was born in America on this day in 1972 and this is some of the stuff he has done. I'll be back with you tomorrow with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

A new exhibition launching soon in Kilkee that captures the beauty, mood, and memory of West Clare through a uniquely reflective process. To speak more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Pauline Dunleavy, a much-loved artist, art teacher, and community advocate from Kilrush. Her new exhibition, titled Painting Through The Lens, opens August 4th at the Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, with an official opening evening on August 8th.

Ballyea manager Robbie Hogan says his side will have to dust themselves down and take the positives from their performance in the first game of the TUS Clare Senior Hurling Championship. His side fell to a one point defeat to Kilmaley leaving them on the back foot in Group 4 ahead of their crucial second round clash with Scariff. The 2022 county champions had looked set to open their account with a win as they held an 11 point lead at half time, after Tony Kelly netted twice in first half. Hogan's been telling Clare FM's Derek Dormer that their inability to get on breaking ball in the second period let them down. Meanwhile, Clooney Quin Boss Fergal Lynch is lauding his sides staying power as they kicked off their campaign with a win. A late surge saw them claim a three point victory over Broadford to sit second in Group 2, with leaders Inagh-Kilnamona providing the opposition in the next round. Lynch says his players have finished strong in every game they've played this year.

The ongoing shortage of qualified substitute teachers is putting major pressure on primary schools across the country. Deputy Joe Cooney, Fine Gael TD for Clare, has urged the Minister for Education to consider allowing ECCE graduates to step in as substitutes for junior and senior infant classes, where their training in early childhood care could make a real difference. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Joe Cooney.

There's a unique night of performance and purpose coming up in Kilkee. The FullMoon Cabaret on Saturday, August 9th, suppors both local heritage and global need. From jazz to dance, poetry to sand animation, it's shaping up to be something really special. To tell us more about it, and the causes behind it, Derrick Lynch was joined by Rita McCarthy and Rob Hopkins.

We' mentioned earlier that a very special occasion is coming up in Ruan this Sunday, the 3rd of August, as the President of the GAA, Jarlath Burns, will be paying a visit to officially launch Ruan GAA's fundraising campaign. The club is working towards completing their Astro Turf area and Wall Ball, a major step forward for facilities in the community. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by two proud Ruan GAA members, Donal Ó hAinifín and Cyril Lyons, who told us more about the campaign, the importance of the President's visit, and how the local community can get involved.

The All Ireland Currach Regatta is coming up next week in Doonbeg. Hosted by the West Clare Currach Club, the event takes place on Bank Holiday Monday, 4th of August, with races starting at 11am from Doonbeg Pier. It's a great day out for the whole family and a fantastic celebration of maritime heritage on the West Clare coast. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Shaunie Honan, Chairman of West Clare Currach Club. PHOTO CREDIT: Doonbeg Currach Club. via Facebook

Growing Up in a Lighthouse is the title of an upcoming talk at Cultúrlann Sweeney Library Theatre, Kilkee, on 30th July 2025 at 8:00pm. With deep family roots in Kilcredaun Lighthouse near Carrigaholt, Stephen Rowan offers a rare and personal glimpse into the world of lighthouse keeping, its history, and how the role has evolved over generations. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Stephen Rowan, Former Lighthouse Attendant.

Lahinch Golf Club was the scene of unforgettable emotion and sporting triumph this past weekend. Local schoolteacher Jonathan Keane made history as the first home winner of the Pierse Motor Group South of Ireland Championship in 57 years, overcoming a career-threatening injury and edging a dramatic one-hole victory over Dundalk's Caolan Rafferty. There were cheers, tears, and unforgettable scenes as Keane pulled on the coveted green blazer — a moment decades in the making. For more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Jonathan Keane, 2025 South of Ireland champion and Martin O'Sullivan, Captain of Lahinch Golf Club.

The framework trade agreement which the United States and the European Union signed on Sunday is worse than the trade deal that the United Kingdom reached with the US earlier, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has said. It introduces a 15% import tariff on most EU goods being exported to the US, which is half the 30% rate US President Donald Trump had threatened. This baseline tariff will apply across the board, including for Europe's crucial car manufacturing sector, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Tommy Corbett, Financial expert at Carey Corbett Financial Solutions.

Two Clare businesses are set to benefit from an available funding pool of almost 19 million euro for what's been described as "groundbreaking projects." The Department of Enterprise has made the allocation under the Disruptive Technologies Innovation Fund, which is specifically targeting three ICT and Health & Well-Being initiatives. Among the company's to benefit are the Shannon based Hooke Bio LTD and Provisio which are working on advanced cancer treatments and advanced driver safety assistance systems respectively. Shannon Fine Gael Councillor Tony Mulcahy says it's a huge vote of confidence.

Shannon Airport says it hopes to be able to make an announcement regarding new routes in the coming weeks. The Clare base expects to see almost 60,000 passengers pass through its gates this August Bank Holiday Weekend which is 10% up on the same period last year. Ryanair recently announced a fourth based aircraft at the facility along with new routes to Lapland, Madeira and Madrid. Shannon Airport Group CEO Mary Considine says they're always working to find ways to fly to new destinations.

Clare's Player of The Match from Saturday's All Ireland Final is hopeful that success can be the springboard to securing club championship glory, which gets underway this evening. It comes just four days on from Saturday's clash with Sligo, which saw Clare take home All Ireland Minor B honours for the third time. Rhea Meaney and her sister Nessa formed part of a seven strong contingent from Fergus Rovers on the panel, while their mother Patricia was involved in the backroom team. The Joint-Vice Captain says it's a huge achievement for both the club and her family.

Broadford manager Paddy Meehan says he's sickened by the last minute goal that sentenced his side to defeat in the first round of the TUS Clare Senior Hurling Championship. Having struck two goals of their own in the opening half, Broadford looked set to take at least a point from the game as they led by two points with seven minutes to play. However, super sub Darragh McNamara raised a 60th minute green flag to turn the game on its head, while Martin and Peter Duggan added late points to finalise a three point win for Clooney Quin. Meehan says their opponent's quality players shone through in the dying stages. Meanwhile, Éire Óg boss Gerry O'Connor says he's impressed by the manner of which his players controlled the game once they hit the front. 13 points from Danny Russell alongside goals from Marco Cleary and Darren O'Brien helped The Townies to a 2-24 to 1-18 win over Newmarket in their Group 3 encounter. O'Connor says the boost they got from their bench saw them over the line to record the victory.

A North Clare firefighter, GAA Coach, Tradesman and Charity fundraiser extraordinaire who passed away following a tragic accident last week has been described as "the salt of the earth at his funeral mass". Clouna Church in Ennistymon was packed to capacity today to say goodbye to their own Joe Crosse.

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 28ú lá de mí Iúil, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1984 tháinig an rialtas amach le plean chun treoirlíne a thabhairt isteach ionas go mbeadh na fórsaí slándála a bheith ábalta gach rud a fheiceáil ar ghuthán. I 1990 bhí na tiománaí bus ag bagrach stailc I nGaillimh, agus dá mbeidís chun é a dhéanamh bheadh tionchar ar 10 míle paisinéirí. I 1979 bhí coiste deoiseach á bhunú sa chontae de bharr go raibh Pope John Paul ag teacht. I 1984 bhí na Gardaí in Inis ag fiosrú ar ghadaíocht de 246 punt ón seomra gléasta de Pháirc Chíosóg. Sin Irene Cara le Fame – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1982. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 1964 chuaigh The Beatles chuig an tSualainn don dara huair agus chan siad ag dhá cheolchoirm I Stócólm. I rith an chéad cheolchoirm fuair Paul McCartney agus John Lennon turraing leictreach ó mhicreafón. I 1987 tháinig Kylie Minogue amach le hamhrán a scríobh Gerry Goffin agus Carole King. Tháinig sí amach leis an amhrán The Loco-Motion san Astráil mar a chéad amhrán. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh Harry Kane sa Bhreatain I 1993 agus rugadh amhránaí Soulja Boy I Meiriceá ar an lá seo I 1990 agus seo chuid de amhrán. Beidh mé ar ais libh amárach le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 28th of July, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1990: A threatened strike by bus drivers in Galway, which would have effected 10,000 passengers was deferred. 1984: The government planned to introduce legal guidelines on telephone tapping by security forces. 1984: Ennis Gardaí were investigating the theft of £246 in cash from the dressing rooms of Cusack Park. 1979: A special Diocesan Committee was reported to be set up in Clare to arrange for the historic visit of Pope John Paul. That was Irene Cara with Fame – the biggest song on this day in 1982 Onto music news on this day In 1964 On their second visit to Sweden, The Beatles played two shows at an ice hockey arena, the Johanneshovs Isstadion, Stockholm. During the first show, both Paul McCartney and John Lennon received mild electrical shocks from ungrounded microphones. 1987 Kylie Minogue released a cover version of the Gerry Goffin and Carole King penned song 'The Loco-Motion' in Australia, as her debut single. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – Footballer Harry Kane was born in the UK in 1993 and rapper Soulja Boy was born in America on this day in 1990 and this is one of his songs. I'll be back with you tomorrow with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

A Clare MEP believes uncertainty for the pharmaceutical sector in the Midwest will continue as a result of the framework trade agreement signed by the EU and US. The deal signed yesterday imposes a 15% import tariff on the majority of EU goods including pharmaceuticals which it was hoped would be exempted. The outcome of talks has been welcomed across the Government with the Taoiseach claiming it will bring "clarity and predictability" to the trading relationship. Scariff Independent MEP Michael McNamara has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the US President appears to have got what we came for and may come back for more.

To review the sporting fixtures, Derrick Lynch was joined on Monday's Morning Focus by Clare FM's Derek Dormer and Kevin Sheehan Games Reviewed: TUS Clare SHC: Friday: Group 1: Clonlara v Sixmilebridge (Zimmer Biomet Pairc Chiosog) Group 3: Newmarket-on-Fergus v Éire Óg (Clarecastle) Saturday: Group 2: Clooney Quin v Broadford (Shannon) Group 4: Kilmaley v Ballyea (Sixmilebridge) Group 1: Crusheen v St. Joseph's Doora Barefield (Zimmer Biomet Pairc Chiosog) Group 3: Feakle v Wolfe Tones Shannon (Zimmer Biomet Pairc Chiosog) Group 4: Cratloe v Scariff (Broadford) Group 2: Inagh-Kilnamona v Corofin (Gurteen) Premier IHC: Friday: Group 1: Killanena v O'Callaghan's Mill (Scariff) Saturday: Group 2: Clarecastle v Whitegate (Bodyke) Sunday: Ruan v Sixmilebridge (Cratloe) TUS IHC: Sunday: Group 1: O'Callaghan's Mills v Broadford (Clonlara) Inagh-Kilnamona v Scariff (Clooney) Group 2: St. Joseph's Doora Barefield v Smith O'Briens (Broadford) Newmarket-on-Fergus v Kilmaley (Ballyea) All Ireland Minor B LGFA Final: Clare v Sligo (Saturday, Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence, Bekan)

If you've been out and about around Clare this summer, you might have noticed a very handy little shuttle bus making its way through some of the county's most scenic and historic spots. It's called the Burren and Cliffs of Moher Explorer Shuttle Bus, and it's been ferrying both tourists and locals around to and from the Cliffs of Moher, and around to places like Corofin, Kilfenora, Lisdoonvarna, Ballyvaughan and Miltown Malbay — giving people a chance to explore without needing a car. It's all part of a campaign to promote sustainable travel in the Burren Geopark, support local businesses, and help us all slow down and soak up what's on our doorstep. To tell us a bit more about how it all works, and why it's not just for visitors, Colum McGrath sat down with Siobhán King — she's the Projects Officer for County Clare with Fáilte Ireland.

A mother and daughter went the extra distance – vertically! - to raise money for a very worthy cause. Ramona Greene and her mum, Marie took part in a skydive earlier this month, to raise vital funds for Féileacáin, the Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland.

Shannon Boxing Club is seeking a more permanent home. For more on the background of the club, its importance to the local community in Shannon, and why they need a new home, Derrick Lynch was joined by the Chairman and head coach, David Ryan. PHOTO CREDIT: Shannonboxingclub Sbc via Facebook

Alan Morrissey was joined by Matt McCormack, a dedicated counsellor at A Cherished Mind in Ennis, for an insightful conversation. Matt shared his background in counselling and explored key topics such as relationship advice and the dynamics of marriage, offering valuable perspectives for individuals and couples alike. PHOTO CREDIT: NoSystem images from Getty Images Signature

We're becoming more worried about our household finances. Data from the Irish League of Credit Unions shows consumer confidence dipped in July, with rising food prices and suggestions there won't be cost-of-living supports in the next budget both feeding into the drop. Overall, 37 per cent of consumers say the cost-of-living is their main worry. It comes as Flogas announced ahead of the weekend that it's increasing its prices for residential electricity customers by 7%. For more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Louis Faye, St Frances Credit Union, Ennis.

Today on the show we're joined by The Irish News journalist, Conor Coyle, who has been covering the tragic shooting in Maguiresbridge, Co. Fermanagh. Conor has reported in depth on the unfolding investigation. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Conor Coyle, Journalist with Irish news.

The Scariff Harbour Festival is coming up later this week. Festival organisers and Scariff GAA will come together to mark the official opening of the 2025 festival – which runs from Thursday, 31st July) until Sunday, 3rd August - and celebrate the significant developments at the local GAA park. The East Clare Club will welcome GAA President, Jarlath Burns, when he addresses the local community on Saturday (2nd August, 6.30pm). To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Harry O'Meara, Co-Founder of Scariff Harbour Festival. PHOTO CREDIT: The Scariff Harbour Festival via Facebook

Tributes are being paid to a man who died in a workplace accident in Ennistymon last Thursday (24th). Joe Crosse is understood to have suffered life-threatening injuries following a fall. The 46-year-old was a plasterer and retained firefighter in Ennistymon. He was active within the community there, where he managed the U9s at Ennistymon GAA Club. Joe also raised thousands of euros for a number of different charities. Indeed, back in December 2021, Joe appeared on Morning Focus to talk about running 52 marathons in a year to raise money for charity. Joe is survived by his wife Brid, children Teagan and Odhran, and extended family and friends. His funeral mass will take place at Clouna Church, Ennistymon today (Monday, 28th July) at 12 noon. For more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Shane Talty, Ennistymon GAA Chair.

A new bus route expansion will connect villages in rural Clare to Ennis and Limerick for the first time. TFI Local Link has confirmed that Tulla and Meelick will be added as stops on its 318 route from Ennis to Limerick. The enhanced route will operate three daily return services from Monday to Sunday, with additional late evening journeys on Friday and Saturday. TFI Local Link Clare-Limerick Area Manager Anne Gaughan says it will be a major boost for the region.

The Mayor of Clare expects a flood defence scheme in West Clare to have a "positive result for the surrounding area and residents". Minister of State with responsibility for the Office of Public Works Kevin Boxer Moran has confirmed that the OPW has approved funding of €16,034 for Clare County Council's planned flood mitigation works at Lacknashinagh in Kildysart. The project will involve the reconstruction of an estuary embankment and reinforcement with gabion mattress. Clarecastle Fine Gael Councillor Paul Murphy says it's a win for the whole county.

The opening round of this year's TUS Clare Senior Hurling Championship provided plenty of drama across the weekend. Kilmaley came back from the dead to snatch a one point victory against Ballyea, while newly promoted Wolfe Tones shared the spoils with reigning champions Feakle in Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chiosóg. Clonlara laid down an early marker in the first game of the 2025 championship as they defeated 2024 beaten finalists Sixmilebridge by a point in their Group 1 encounter on Friday evening. The Bridge thought they'd secured a draw with an Alex Morey free in added time but a placed ball of their own from Cathal O'Connell claimed a 1-19 to 1-18 win for 2023 Canon Hamilton winners. The team that were defeated on that occasion are top of Group 1 after the opening weekend however, as Crusheen opened their account with a five point win over Doora/Barefield on a score of 23 points to 1-15. Inagh-Kilnamona sit atop Group 2 following the opening weekend of action after a convincing win over Corofin. The combo notched an impressive 31 points in their 13 point victory in Gurteen. Meanwhile, Clooney-Quin occupy second spot after Darragh McNamara raided for a late goal to defeat Broadford 1-18 to 2-12. Group 3 saw the meeting of the reigning Senior and Intermediate champions as Feakle and Wolfe Tones played out a 19 points to 1-16 draw. Darragh Lohan netted a second half penalty for the Shannon side early in the second half, while the county champions might have to contend with the loss of keeper Eibhear Quilligan who went off in the first half. Feakle boss Ger Conway says his side did well to hold onto a point given the number of injuries in his squad. In the other game in that group a red card for Luca Cleary didn't deter Éire Óg as they downed Newmarket on Fergus in Clarecastle. Darren O'Brien and Marco Cleary raised second half green flags en route to a 2-24 to 1-19 win. Kilmaley produced a remarkable comeback as they defeated Ballyea in Group 4. Two stunning Tony Kelly goals in the opening period looked to have given his side an insurmountable eleven point half time lead. However, spurred on by goals from Tommy Barry and Conor Cleary, Kilmaley gradually reeled in the 2022 champions before a Mikey O'Malley free sealed the most unlikely of comebacks. Kilmaley boss Brian Culbert says his sides's first 30 minutes left a lot to be desired and credited the victory to an increase in intensity. Cratloe, however, will head into the next round in pole position. They got the better of Scariff 1-24 to 1-21 in a thrilling encounter in Broadford. In the Premier Intermediate championship O'Callaghan's Mills and Tubber recorded wins in Group 1, while Clarecastle lead the way in Group 2 after they defeated Whitegate, while Ruan and Sixmilebridge played out a draw.

Clare Minor Ladies Captain Aisling Crowe has labelled their All Ireland Final Success a dream come true for all involved. Following successes in 2013 and 2017, The Banner added a third Minor B Ladies Football title to the roll of honour with a four point win over Sligo. Clare had to withstand a late barrage from the 2024 champions, who were in search of a goal to force the game to extra time before Clodagh Mescal knocked over the insurance score with Clare's final attack. Crowe says the sense of unity within the squad dragged them over the line in the second half.

The manager of the Clare minor ladies footballers has hailed his side's defensive reilience that saw them crowned All Ireland Champions yesterday. A 1-8 to 0-7 victory over Sligo in the Connaught GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan Co.Mayo saw Clare claim their third All Ireland title at the grade. Of the Sligo total, just three points were conceded from play. Banner boss Barry Donnelly says it's a testament to the player's hard work and dedication.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch is joined by former Clare LGFA manager & owner of iGaelic Coach Evan Talty for commentary on Clare's All Ireland Minor B LGFA final win over Sligo

Calls have been made for a blanket ban on windfarm developments near Clare's air traffic control radar installations. There are currently pending applications for 40 turbines in the east of the county, many of which are in close proximity to the radar station at Woodcock Hill in Meelick. Shannon Airport and AirNav Ireland have already raised concerns over the potential impacts that projects at Knockshanvo, Ballycar and Lackareagh Beg would have, with the latter granted planning permission last week. Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe says no one wants to see an accident.

A bathing hotspot in East Clare is set to receive a welcome boost to its facilities. A number of handrails are set to be installed at Mountshannon Pier. Killaloe Municipal District has committed to the upgrades as a short term measure, along with placing more sand along the shoreline of the Blue Flag Beach. Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor Pat Burke says it will be a vital addition.

Fr Brendan Quinlivan leads our Sunday Prayer for Sunday 27th July 2025, the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Clare's minor ladies footballers have been crowned All Ireland champions. Barry Donnelly's side secured a 1-8 to 0-7 win over reigning champions Sligo in the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence in Bekan, Co Mayo this afternoon. The crucial score, a goal off the boot of Aoibheann Ryan, came just before the half time whistle to give Clare a 1-3 to 0-4 lead as the sides headed for the dressing room. Clare FM analyst Evan Talty says Clare showed immense resilience to grind out the result in the closing stages.

Farmers and rural pet owners are once again being urged to take control of their dogs following a vicious attack in East Clare. It follows an incident in O'Callaghan's Mills in which a number of sheep suffered serious injuries. The dog responsible is yet to be identified and owners in the area are requested to be extra vigilant. Clare County Dog Warden Frankie Coote says it was an extremely distressing incident.

The upgrade of water infrastructure in a West Clare community is expected to "significantly lower instances of bursts" in the area. Ward and Burke Construction Limited has replaced over 800 metres of aged water mains with new pipes in the townland of Alva in Creegh on behalf of Uisce Éireann. The water utility claims this will cut down on supply disruptions along the network which will result in a "more secure" water supply for residents. Uisce Éireann National Leakage Reduction Programme Manager Jack Cronin claims it's a very positive development.

Ahead of Saturday's All Ireland Minor B LGFA final, Clare FM's Derrick Lynch spoke with Clare manager Barry Donnelly, captain Aisling Crowe, along with vice captains Rea Meaney and Aisling Kelly to look ahead to their clash with Sligo in the Connacht GAA Centre of Excellence.