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Ireland's Connected Hubs model is breaking new ground in Europe, as regions in Finland and France begin rolling out pilot projects based directly on the Irish system. Through the CODIL Pilot Action, Ireland's experience is now informing regional policy, digital infrastructure, and community hub strategy beyond its borders. Western Development Commission (WDC) oversees the Connected Hubs platform and network on behalf of the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht. Allan Mulrooney, CEO of the WDC said the international adoption of the Connected Hubs model highlights Ireland's growing influence in shaping the future of work: "The Connected Hubs initiative is proof that big ideas tested in the west of Ireland can scale internationally. What started as a regional innovation to support rural communities is now informing digital and enterprise policy across Europe. This international expansion shows how the WDC's approach to pilot, prove and then scale can deliver real impact, not just for the west but for regions across the EU seeking to build smarter, more connected communities." In recent months, Liam Horan and Leah Fairman, both WDC, represented Ireland at in-person engagements with regional stakeholders in South Ostrobothnia, Finland, and Laval, France, respectively. Their visits included site tours of coworking hubs, local SMEs, academic institutions and community innovation spaces in the context of how Ireland's experience with remote work hubs can be tailored for local contexts. CODIL is a European project that aims to improve regional innovation policy instruments to better support the emerging distributed-team innovation model and its key component - highly skilled mobile knowledge workers. As the nature of innovation has fundamentally changed, policy instruments that support innovation must also change if they are to effectively support this changed post-COVID innovation ecosystem. Údarás na Gaeltachta are among the lead partners in the project. The CODIL project enables Finnish and French partners to trial the core functionalities of the Connected Hubs platform, including the hub directory, booking engine and event calendar. Through a 'sandbox' environment, these partners will simulate their own hub entries and explore the platform's community management features. This phase will also include knowledge-sharing, applying lessons from Ireland's approach to hub onboarding, community building and visibility. "These international engagements are a real vote of confidence in the Irish model. What began as a regional response to the needs of rural communities has grown into something with relevance far beyond our shores. It's a reminder that local innovation when backed with the right support can lead the way in rethinking how we live and work," added Stephen Carolan Head of Connected Hubs and Digital Innovation at the WDC. During his presentation in Seinäjoki, Liam Horan introduced the Connected Hubs project, from its inception within the Western Development Commission to becoming Ireland's national remote working infrastructure. He outlined the impact of hub networks on regional enterprise, inclusion and climate goals, and discussed the roadmap for future platform developments. Looking ahead, delegations from Finland, France and Scotland will attend the fourth annual National Hub Summit in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway on the 13th of November. They will join Irish and international speakers to discuss the evolving role of hubs in economic development, climate action and digital inclusion. This international interest reinforces the value of Connected Hubs as a leading European good practice and strengthens Ireland's reputation as a frontrunner in innovative and inclusive remote work infrastructure. See more stories here.
The domestic hurling season is over in Galway and Andy Coen, Cyril Farrell and Sean Walsh look back on a weekend where: Loughrea won their first-ever 2 in a row when they defeated St Thomas. How was it achieved? Meelick Eyrecourt captured the Intermediate championship for the first time since 1997, while Ballinasloe completed the 3-in-a-row at Junior 1 level.
Galway Celtic Challenge manager Gerry Kearney and David Connors join Paul to review the Senior, Intermediate and Junior Hurling Championship finals.If you have any questions or thoughts for upcoming podcasts, email the maroonwhitepod@gmail.com.This Podcast is brought to you by Hoare Chartered Accountants. Hoare Chartered Accountants based in Galway City are a leading provider of Audit, Accountancy and Taxation services.. For more information, visit their website on www.hoarecharteredaccountants.ie
Match report from Kenny Park, Athenry, on Sunday afternoon as Ballinasloe were crowned Junior 1 Hurling Champions for the third time in a row after beating Kiltormer by 3-13 to 1-12.
Ballinasloe joint captains Eoin Coleman and Cathal O'Hanlon (Also Player of the Match) speak to Darren Kelly after they claimed a third successive Junior 1 Hurling Championship title with victory over Kiltormer in Kenny Park, Athenry on Sunday afternoon.
Ballinasloe Hurling manager Derek Frehill speaks to Darren Kelly after winning the Junior 1 Hurling Championship Final on Sunday afternoon, his side beat Kiltormer by 3-13 to 1-12 to be crowned champions for the third time in a row.
Darren Kelly reports from Duggan Park, Ballinasloe, on Saturday afternoon as Killimor were crowned Galway Intermediate Camogie Champions after a two-point victory over Sarsfields in a replay.
The biggest weekend in the Galway club hurling calendar is upon us with the Forvis Mazars County Senior Hurling Final taking place between Loughrea and St. Thomas' in Pearse Stadium on Saturday (1st November) at 6pm. And the Steeltech Sheds Intermediate Hurling decider featuring Kinvara and Meelick-Eyrecourt is down for Kenny Park on Sunday (2nd) at 2pm. Beforehand, Ballinasloe and Kiltormer come together in the Ask Acorn Junior 1 Final at 12pm. On Friday's 'Over The Line' (31st October), Galway Bay FM's hurling team of Sean Walsh, Niall Canavan, Cyril Farrell, Johnny Kelly and Andy Coen joined Darren Kelly into studio to set the scene for the weekend. == The 'Over The Line' weekend preview show broadcasts every Friday evening from 7pm on Galway Bay FM.
After weeks of being haunted by a mysterious entity, Dave and Fionnuala's nightmare reached its chilling climax on Halloween Eve — when they were abducted from the studio and transported to one of the world's most haunted places, Charleville Castle in County Offaly.Inside the castle's shadowy halls, their guides Samantha and Michael led them through eerie corridors and ghostly legends before they called in backup - Anthony and Richard from Paranormal Supernatural Investigations Ireland. Armed with professional ghost-hunting equipment, the team set out to uncover what lurked within the castle's walls.It wasn't long before one of Charleville's most famous spirits, Harriet, made her presence known through our amazing actress Teegan Fahy- setting a series of supernatural challenges for Dave and Fionnuala to complete… if they ever wanted to escape.A huge thank you to everyone who helped bring Fright Night to life:Charleville Castle Heritage Trust - for opening the doors of their incredible castle. You can book your own tour by following them on Instagram @charlevillecastle. You can support their roof restoration project on Go Fund Me.Anthony and Richard from Paranormal Supernatural Investigations Ireland Ltd - true professionals in the field. See more of their ghost-hunting adventures on Instagram @psiireland2019.And last, but by no means least, our amazing actress Teegan Fahy from Instep Stage School in Ballinasloe, who brought Harriet to life with spine-chilling perfection. She has a very bright future in acting ahead! You can find them on instagram @instepstageschool_You can check out Fright Night on our socials @thisisiradio
Turloughmore Captain Niamh McGrath speaks to Tommy Devane ahead of Saturday afternoon's Junior A Camogie Final against Portumna in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe.
Darren Kelly reports from Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Sunday as Meelick-Eyrecourt had to come from behind to overcome Ballygar and book their place in the Intermediate Hurling decider against Kinvara in two weeks time.
The Junior A Hurling Championship Final took place in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Sunday afternoon and it was a historic day for St Thomas as they claimed their first title at the grade since 1972. Darren Kelly has the report...
Morley's Mouthfuls Traffic was again a big issue this week on Galway Talks, but it was traffic safety, not congestion, that dominated. I went out to Kinvara early on this week and spoke to some of the locals about some of the traffic safety measures they want to see in the village. They want urgently to have two pedestrian crossings, as well as, a number of other knock-on safety measures. It follows two accidents in the village over recent weeks, and they're calling on Galway County Council, TII, and all the relevant stakeholders to get safety measures in place as a matter of urgency. The Global Sumud Flotilla was boarded by Israeli forces this week as they tried to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. A number of the people who are on the boats, including Salthill poet Sarah Clancy, have been taken as captives and will be deported to their countries in due course, according to Israeli forces. Now, they maintain that they are trying to deliver humanitarian aid and are allowed to so by international law, making what Israel did a war crime. Israel says these people are going into their waters and that they need to make sure that there is no weaponry in this aid before it makes its way on to Gaza. There is increasing pressure on governments across the world from citizens to put pressure to bear on Israel to end the genocide. Insurance was again a topic of discussion this week. There have been recent hikes by three of the main four providera in the last week, seeing some premiums increase by as much as €600. This follows other increases throughout the course of this year by the majority of the four players in the market, with Level Health increasing theirs back in April. We had Dermot Goode, of Health Insurance Ireland on the show. He explained some of the reasons given for this increase in health insurance, including more people going to seek assistance in private health hospitals. He also gave some advice to our listeners as to what is best practice to find the best premium out there and the best deal for a given individual and family. He set out the pros and cons to having and not having private health insurance in this country. In a week where local Fianna Fáil Deputy Albert Dolan has brought out a tracker to allow the public to see the breakdown of tenders in the public procurement process, wastage of monies at a national level was very much to the fore again. It centered in and around the €100,000 tender for the bike shelter at the National Maternity Hospital. Now, Sinn Féin have called for this to be scrapped outright, while the government parties have said there is a tender process and to wait and see if someone can bring in a tender at an affordable rate. We discussed this on the program earlier on this week with Fianna Fáil Deputy John Connolly and Sinn Féin TD Mairéad Farrell. School transport came to the fore yet again this week after nearly a month since schools returned for the new academic year. We spoke to the grandmother of two children with language disorders who had to move to Loughrea to avail of a nearby school at the loss of the services they badly needed in Ballinasloe. We discussed this on the program with the grandmother of the children in question, Josephine Clarke. She was joined on the program by local Fianna Fáil representative in the Loughrea area, Michael Regan. She is calling for the Department of Education and the School Transport Office to get their school bus route back for her grandchildren so that they can fulfill their education to the full potential. Staying on the topic of schools, two schools in East Galway are still waiting on the go-ahead for much-needed expansions. For over 20 years, that's been the case for Carrabane National School in the Loughrea hinterland, but also for Scoil an Chroí Naofa in the Ballinasloe area, but that particular projects stretches out to nearly 30 years. We discussed what can be done to expedite the process and give final approval to both projects with Sinn Féin Deputy Clare Kerrane and Fianna Fáil Senator Shane Curley.
There's nothing quite like an election looming and the budget in the offing to make the work of a journalist more exciting. That's definitely been the case over the past week on Galway Talks. ?We started off the week by discussing VAT and the potential reduction back to 9% for the hospitality sector. There is some concern among certain quarters that it might also include big multinationals—something that many organisations, including unions, have not taken too kindly to. We discussed it on the programme with Galway man and Chief Executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Adrian Cummins, alongside Lorraine Heskin, who is the owner of the Gourmet Food Parlour chain, who have a premises in Salthill. On the opposite side of the fence was Dr. Laura Bambrick of ICTU. The issue of maternity services at Portiuncula University Hospital in Ballinasloe was brought into sharp focus this week by an Oireachtas Health Committee meeting. The committee heard contradictory information regarding the implementation of the Walker Report at the hospital. The committee heard information that appeared to conflict with previous statements from the Minister for Health and the Department of Health. Both Bernard Gloster (HSE CEO) and Colm Henry (Chief Clinical Officer, HSE) gave evidence at the committee meeting. They were questioned by Roscommon-Galway TD, Dr. Martin Daly. The admitted to him that the report was not fully implemented at the hospital. The ongoing saga has caused significant consternation locally, with many constituents demanding a meeting with the Minister for Health. The Minister has consistently maintained that her decision regarding the future of the services was made based on the "best clinical advice." However, the failure to fully implement the Walker Report is a key point of concern, exacerbating the anxiety among local communities about the long-term security and level of maternity services at Portiuncula. We're well into September now, and the storm season will be rolling in quick and fast from the south-west prevailing winds. The issue of the security of our energy grid was brought into focus this week by Fianna Fáil Deputy for Galway West, John Connolly. Connemara was one of the worst-hit areas affected in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn earlier this spring. We discussed investment into the energy grid between now and January 2026, which will cause a day or two of outages in certain parts of Connemara, from Carraroe right across and into Western South Connemara. Donald Trump's remarks in relation to autism and vaccines have caused quite a stir in the medical community this week. They have absolutely refuted his claims that paracetamol is linked to rising cases of autism. We discussed this on the programme earlier on this week with the President of the IMO Anne Deane. The question of funding for the Irish language and Irish language rights was very much put into focus last weekend with the Cearta March on Dublin. Our reporter Seán Ó'Maoilchiarán spoke to a number of different people and organisations on the ground who were passionate about the language, and who want to see increased funding and increased rights for Irish language speakers. We got a flavour of the march and the athmosphere on the day. Our Community Matters programme featured the wonderful island and islanders of Inishbofin. You can listen back on our website. Our Galway Great on Monday morning is Patricia Forde.
Today on Galway Talks with John Morley: 9am-10am Vandals target running track in Ballinasloe Concern raised that tourism in Galway will suffer unless coach spaces are made available We speak to two time Superbowl champion Max Starks ahead of Pittsburgh Steelers historic NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings in Croke Park 10am-11am New primary school curriculum to be phased in Hauliers say Insurance costs are crippling rural Ireland We hear about the Silent Film Festival kicking off in Galway this Wednesday 11am-12pm We speak to the directors of new film - ‘Re-Creation: The Trial of Ian Bailey' Headford Man crowned overall winner in World Skills Ireland Motor Mechanics Finals Music Mornings – Aisling Fuller
There is a great saying in Galway that people love to discuss two things; the weather and traffic! This week was no different. Traffic in the city needs to eventually make its way through to a destination and/or park. That is where the conversation went to this week. Parking has had its problems in recent months in the city. While a number of people have moved to the city council's parking app, many more want cash and card option at parking machines. That option has became less readily available and there are talks of removing the machines altogether due to the ongoing legal challenge halting proceedings. We got the thoughts of some of the people on the street in Galway City, many of whom want the option of cash and card payments on the street. Others argued that pragmatic decisions are needed. Perhaps a return of disc parking as part of the mix in the city? We also lost a great former colleague and friend this week here at Galway Bay FM with the sad passing of Ken Kelly. He was remembered as a diligent and tenacious journalist, calm colleague and great friend. Perhaps most importantly he was a proud Ballinasloe man and revelled at positive developments in the area over a number of decades. He will be sadly missed. Our Head of News Bernadette Prendergast and former newsroom colleague Tom Gilmore paid a heartfelt tribute to Ken. Litter in the city came to the fore again this week. A big clean-up operation was done on the waterways and canals in the heart of town. Lots of bottles, cans and general waste came up to the surface and was properly disposed of. It struck up a conversation as to whether or not we are managing litter in the city to the best of our ability. However, there seems to be no end in sight to the issue of oats and porridge being scattered across town. This is despite assurances the issue was being resolved by the relevant authorities. The refuse is leading to serious health and safety concerns, whether that be in the form of vermin or seagulls. We were out and about for Community Matters on Friday in the beautiful village of Cornamona. We will be back on Galway Talks on Monday from 9am, where our Galway Great is PJ Duggan!
Sally-Ann Barrett, Reporter, speaks to some of those in Ballinasloe, Co. Galway affected by the ongoing school secretaries and caretakers strike action.
Today on Galway Talks with John Morley 9am-10am Government launches five-year national strategy to improve disability rights in Ireland We speak to Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke as he visits Galway 10am-11am Lack of engagement from employers in regards to auto enrolement We hear about The West's Awake – a Rally for Palestine taking place this weekend Several events taking place in Galway for National Services Day 11am-12pm Culture Corner - The man, the myth, the legend, Joe Sherry joins us to talk about Clarinbridge Market Day Pet Corner Sports Preview Music Mornings - 12th Annual Féile Cheoil Larry Reynolds Festival in Ballinasloe
Connacht have made 14 changes for Saturday's under-18 girls interprovincial final against Leinster with Tuam/Oughterard's Juno Hayes remaining in the 2nd row (30th August 2025) The Galway contingent on the starting team includes Ballinasloe trio Roisin O'Sulivan, Esther Albert and co-captain Anna McDermott; Tuam/Oughterards' Aoibh Morrow and Juno Hayes; Creggs' Mia White and Ciara Corrigan; along with Gort Monivea's Cairinn Kearns. Connacht under-18 head coach Craig Hansberry caught up with Galway Bay FM's William Davies. == Kick-off at UCD on Saturday is 2.45pm. CONNACHT U18 GIRLS MATCHDAY SQUAD VS LEINSTER RUGBY 15. Roisin O'Sullivan (Ballinasloe RFC) 14. Kate Gallagher (Ballina RFC) 13. Esther Albert (Ballinasloe RFC) 12. Ruth Conway (Westport RFC) Co-Captain 11. Aoibh Morrow (Tuam/Oughterard RFC) 10. Mia White (Creggs RFC) 9. Kitty Fin Sweeney (Westport RFC) 1. Isabel Lynott (Ballina RFC) 2. Ciara Corrigan (Creggs RFC) 3. Cairínn Kearns (Gort/Monivea RFC) 4. Aoibhinn Lyons (Westport RFC) 5. Juno Hayes (Tuam/Oughterard RFC) 6. Ruby Jennings (Claremorris RFC) 7. Anna McDermott (Ballinasloe RFC) Co-Captain 8. Evie Kennedy (Ballina RFC) 16. Millie Ager (Claremorris RFC) 17. Holly Horkan (Westport RFC) 18. Sharron Thornton (Tuam/Oughterard RFC) 19. Orla Palasz (Westport RFC) 20. Poppy Tunney Ware (Westport RFC) 21. Maebh Smith (Claremorris RFC) 22. Sally Fleming (Buccaneers RFC) 23. Leah McNamara (Westport RFC)
Today on Galway Talks with John Morley 9am-10am Over 250 people attend Athenry Peaker Plant Concern Group meeting. No Bus for 11 children with additional needs in Ballinasloe. 10am-11am Woman taken to UHG after incident at city's Eye Cinema. Striking school secretaries and caretakers to attend regional rallies. 1 million extra home care hours needed in 2026 to help improve “blackspot” in Galway. Connacht Rugby team up with AV experts Sound to Light. Galway City to become a Beacon of Climate Hope and Innovation this September. 11am-12pm Galway Thoughts Panel w/ Albert Dolan of Fianna Fáil and Louis O'Hara of Sinn Féin. Weekend sports preview.
Morley's Mouthfuls: This week on Galway Talks There were further developments relating to the Portiuncula University Hospital this week. A rally was held over the weekend in Ballinasloe were locals called for the reinstatement of full maternity services, evidence and research behind the clinical decision to remove high-risk pregnancies from the hospital and investment in the facility rather than anymore perceived downgrades. Things progressed this week, as a meeting was held on Wednesday between local health representatives and local politicians, where the West-Northwest Hospital Group doubled down on the fact that there would be no reversal of the clinical decision. This was much to the dismay of the newly formed Portiuncula Maternity Alliance and their co-founder Independent Councillor Dr. Evelyn Parsons joined us on Thursday mornings programme to express her dismay at the stance. This was followed later that morning by an exclusive interview with the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill where she also doubled down on the move saying that she must follow clinical advice and evidence, adding that the safety of expectant mothers was paramount. There was a stream of questions for the Minister testimonials from those affected in the wider catchment area of the Ballinasloe-based hospital and subsequent reaction to the Minister's remarks both positive and negative. It makes the campaign for the Portiuncula Maternity Alliance more difficult, and we will bring you all the latest on it as it develops on Galway Talks. As the summer season ends, we were privileged to be out and about this week at the 100th Annual Connemara Pony Show at the Clifden Showgrounds. It was a fantastic occasion showcasing an integral part of Connemara's living heritage. Terence Sweeney gave some great insights into how the show changed from the beginning back in the 1920's in Roundstone right up to the present day. We finished off the week with a thoroughly enjoyable broadcast in Glenamaddy for Community Matters and we will be back with you on Monday next where our Galway Great is the legendary Ray Berry.
Morley's Mouthfuls Over 250 people gathered in Ballinasloe on Tuesday night demanded that there will be no downgrade of the Portiuncula University Hospital in the town. The newly formed Portiuncula Maternity Alliance has set out their demands and a large community mobilisation has begun despite the fact that this all unfolded after an August Bank Holiday weekend. The contention from health officials and Government politicians is that the removal of some high risk pregnancies from the hospital follows clinical advice and recommendations. However, the newly formed group, which saw medical professionals, the INMO and affected mothers, give testimony and views on the night questioned who gave this recommendation and why? The called for a fully independent review and also queried why the Ballinasloe facility was singled out when other hospitals have similar if not worse outcomes. Echoes from the past like Roscommon Hospital and St Brigid's Campus were brought up on the night and there was a real sense that the town feared losing this longstanding hospital which was described by one woman on the night as the ‘heartbeat' of the town. A rally will take place next Saturday in the town, people continue to sign the groups' petition and as time goes on, one would ultimately expect that the completed petition will find its way up to Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill's desk. Many also highlighted on the night that it was more investment the hospital needed, not a removal of services and it will be interesting to see whether there will be investment forthcoming from the Government in Budget 2026 in the autumn. Student accommodation is continuing to be a problem year in year out and with the academic year fast approaching a plea for help has been issued from the ATU Student's Union. They are calling on homeowners with spare room to sign up to the Rent A Room scheme. There is also concerns as to tenants rights when it come to accommodation as the warning signs for scams are sent out as the mad scramble for rooms ensues over the next month. Again investment is needed quickly and it will be interesting to see if changes made by government on rents will see investors build enough accommodation quickly enough to tackle the demand out there in the market. No doubt we will be following up on these stories and more on Galway Talks this coming Monday where our Galway Great after 11am is Tomás Rua Mac Con Iomaire. The Best of Galway Talks broadcast on weekends between 7-8am.
Today on Galway Talks with John Morley: 9am-10am Revenue writes to almost 70,000 pensioners over incorrect tax payments We speak to the minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and at the Department of Defence We look ahead to Galway vs Cork in the All-Ireland senior comogie championship 10am-11am Public Rally to take place in Ballinasloe over future of maternity services Connacht Tribune Headlines Israeli security cabinet 'expected to approve' Gaza takeover plan - as aid trucks wait at Egyptian border We talk about the aviation changes with the CEO of Shannon Airport as over a million passengers have flown through it so far this year 11am-12pm Culture Corner - Clifden Arts Festival full programme announced Pet Corner Music Mornings - Pat McGovern
Sally Ann Barrett reports from a public meeting on the future of maternity services in Ballinasloe's Portiuncla hospital.
Lisa in Ballinasloe gave us 5 jobs that are not based in an office listener in 5.32 seconds! It'll be tough to beat!
20 years of podcasting and sharing music on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #719 . Subscribe now! The Gothard Sisters, Albannach, Brobdingnagian Bards, The Drowsy Lads, Alexander James Adams, Poitín, Ed Miller, Matt & Shannon Heaton, Heather Dale, Sharon Shannon, Wolf Loescher & Mark Kenneth, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, The Merry Wives of Windsor, Anne Roos, The Irish Rovers, Haggis Rampant, Reilly, Gaelic Storm, The Canny Brothers Band, Stout Pounders, Ockham's Razor, The Rogues GET CELTIC MUSIC NEWS IN YOUR INBOX The Celtic Music Magazine is a quick and easy way to plug yourself into more great Celtic culture. Enjoy seven weekly news items with what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Subscribe now and get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. VOTE IN THE CELTIC TOP 20 FOR 2025 This is our way of finding the best songs and artists each year. You can vote for as many songs and tunes that inspire you in each episode. Your vote helps me create this year's Best Celtic music of 2025 episode. You have just three weeks to vote this year. Vote Now! You can follow our playlist on YouTube to listen to those top voted tracks as they are added every 2 - 3 weeks. THIS WEEK IN CELTIC MUSIC 0:08 - The Gothard Sisters "Against the Grain" from Midnight Sun 4:49 - WELCOME 9:04 - Albannach "Hail to the Heroes" from The Sub - Zero Sessions EP 12:47 - Brobdingnagian Bards "I'm Coming Home" from Another Faire to Remember 17:19 - The Drowsy Lads "7 8, Final Answer" from Everyone In 20:51 - Alexander James Adams "Please Awake" from Harvest Season - Second Cutting 25:53 - Poitín "Mother And Child" from One For The Road 28:22 - FEEDBACK 31:14 - Ed Miller "The Prince of Darkness" from Lolander 36:35 - Matt & Shannon Heaton "Buried My Wife and Danced on Her Grave/Paddy Fahey's/Aherne's Egg (jigs)" from Whirring Wings 40:45 - Heather Dale "Bonny Bonny Broom" from My Celtic Heart 44:32 - Sharon Shannon "Butterflies" from Out The Gap 47:48 - Wolf Loescher & Mark Kenneth "Rigs o' Rye" from Loescher+Kenneth 51:32 - BREAK 53:23 - Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer "The Private Still" from Red House 57:51 - The Merry Wives of Windsor "All Among the Barley" from Drink This Pub Dry 1:00:39 - Anne Roos "Roslin Castle & The Woods of Kilmurry" from A Light in the Forest 1:06:54 - The Irish Rovers "Donovan's Pub in Ballinasloe" from No End in Sight 1:11:37 - Haggis Rampant "Pikeman's March/Battle of Waterloo/Lord Lovat's Lament" from Trì 1:14:05 - THANKS 1:16:40 - Reilly "The Hunting Dogs" from Durty Pool 1:19:23 - Gaelic Storm "Girl's Night in Galway" from Matching Sweaters 1:22:36 - The Canny Brothers Band "Take Me" from The Guinness Situation 1:26:35 - Stout Pounders "Old Dun Cow" from Pour Decisions 1:29:30 - Ockham's Razor "Moorlough Shores" from Garnet 1:34:14 - CLOSING 1:35:39 - The Rogues "The Warrior's Salute" from 25... and Live! 1:40:23 - CREDITS The Irish & Celtic Music Podcast was produced by Marc Gunn, The Celtfather and our Patrons on Patreon. The show was edited by Mitchell Petersen with Graphics by Miranda Nelson Designs. Visit our website to follow the show. You'll find links to all of the artists played in this episode. Todd Wiley is the editor of the Celtic Music Magazine. Subscribe to get 34 Celtic MP3s for Free. Plus, you'll get 7 weekly news items about what's happening with Celtic music and culture online. Best of all, you will connect with your Celtic heritage. Please tell one friend about this podcast. Word of mouth is the absolute best way to support any creative endeavor. Finally, remember—our planet's future is in our hands. The overwhelming evidence shows that human activity is driving climate change, from record - breaking heat waves to rising sea levels. But the good news? We have the power to fix it. Every choice we make—reducing waste, conserving energy, supporting clean energy, and lobbying our political leaders—moves us toward a more stable climate. Start a conversation today. The facts are out there, and the future is ours to shape. Promote Celtic culture through music at http://celticmusicpodcast.com/. WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST * Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and also host of Folk Songs & Stories. This podcast is for fans of Celtic music. We are here to build a diverse Celtic community and help the incredible artists who so generously share their music with you. If you hear music you love, please email artists to let them know you heard them on the Irish and Celtic Music Podcast. Musicians depend on your generosity to release new music. So please find a way to support them. Buy a CD, Album Pin, Shirt, Digital Download, or join their community on Patreon. You can find a link to all of the artists in the shownotes, along with show times, when you visit our website at celticmusicpodcast.com. Email follow@bestcelticmusic to learn how to subscribe to the podcast and you will get a free music - only episode. You'll also learn how to get your band played on the podcast. Bands don't need to send in music, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It's 100% free. Again email follow@bestcelticmusic GET AN IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST ALBUM PIN Want to wear your love of Celtic music? Check out our album pins—these are striking lapel pins inspired by our official podcast compilation albums, featuring some of the best Celtic bands we've ever had on the show. Each pin comes with a full digital album download, so you get great music and great style. Get all the details at magerecords.com And if you're a musician, I've got a full blog post with templates and tips to help you design your own album pin jacket. WHAT IS AN ALBUM PIN? BRING IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC TO THE WORLD FOR 20 YEARS On July 28, 2005, I released the very first episode of the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast. This was not my first podcast. There were four others that I released first. All of them are still available to this day. Though one podfaded. When I started, I was publishing the Celtic Music Magazine every week. I started podcasting to promote Celtic bands, but mostly I wanted to promote my own band, Brobdingnagian Bards. It was a new and exciting way to get my music heard. But something happened along the way. It became less and less about my band and more about how I could help bands be heard. And it worked. In fact, I featured a total of 79 Celtic bands in the months that followed in 2005. That includes Brobdingnagian Bards and my Irish Drinking Songs for Cat Lovers project. Here are some of the bands who were featured. 1: Susan Hamlin, Three Quarter Ale, Dust Rhinos, Cluan, Fathom, The BorderCollies, Tara's Fire, Paul McKenna, Marc Gunn & The Dubliners' Tabby Cats, Brobdingnagian Bards 2: StoneRing, The Slip, Hugh Morrison, Caladh, MacTalla Mor, Lenahan, The Bloody Irish Boys, Vicki Swan & Jonny Dyer, Celtic Stone 3: The Barley Boys, Contea, Queen's Gambit, Highland Fling, Michael Murphy and the River Shannon Band, Amadan, Raymond McCullough, Bow Triplets, The Rogues 4: The Irish Experience, Cairde na Gael, The Black Irish, Avalon Rising, Heather Gilmer and Jeff Moore, Sarah Dinan, Bedlam Bards, Emerald Rose, Kristen Roger, Heather Dale, Serious Kitchen, Empty Hats 5: Rise, Ed Miller, Tullamore, Paisley Close, Cantiga, Thomas "Doc" Grauzer, Cady Finlayson, Rimbo, Don Grieve, Black 47 6: Moch Pryderi, Enter the Haggis, The Patched Hats, Seelie Court, Eric Benson with The Boatrights, Ali Benson, 3 Pints Gone, Sligo Rags, Angel's Share 7: The Tea Merchants, Keltic Kaleidoscope, Brothers 3, EJ Jones, Shays Rebellion, Marc Gunn 8: Niamh Parsons, Flook, Willie McCulloch, Gan Fidil, Pol Mac Adaim, The Elders 9: Tears for Beers, Clandestine, Stonering, Athas, Carl Peterson You can see the full list on the website. Many of these artists are no longer performing. What's more interesting is that about a quarter of these artists are still making new music to this day. Today, I will highlight some of the amazing Celtic bands that are still performing after 15 - 20 years. I started my list with three perennial favorites of mine who've been on the show for a long time and are still performing: Poitin, Ed Miller, and The Gothard Sisters. Admittedly, The Gothard Sisters were a late addition to the show, coming on in 2010. But of all the bands, they are to me a shining beacon of this podcast. Because you can see them grow and develop as musicians and songwriters over the course of this show. So I had to include them. THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! Because of generous patrons like you, the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast releases new episodes nearly every single week. Your support doesn't just fund the show—it fuels a movement. It helps us share the magic of Celtic music with thousands of new listeners and grow a global community of music lovers. Your contributions pay for everything behind the scenes: audio engineering, stunning graphics, weekly issues of the Celtic Music Magazine, show promotion, and—most importantly—buying the music we feature from indie Celtic artists. And if you're not yet a patron? You're missing out! Patrons get: Early access to episodes Music - only editions Free MP3 downloads Exclusive stories and artist interviews A vote in the Celtic Top 20 Join us today and help keep the music alive, vibrant, and independent.
Evelyn Parsons, Independent Galway county councillor and former GP, discusses the summary report of five external reviews into the care provided to women and their babies at Portiuncula hospital. Dr Pat Nash, Clinical Director HSE West/North West discusses the issues at Portiuncula maternity unit in Ballinasloe.
This week on 'The Full-Time Whistle with Darren Kelly (29th June 2025): Heartbreak for the Galway senior footballers as they are beaten by Meath in the All-Ireland quarter-final in Croke Park; Turloughmore, Killimordaly and Skehana-Mountbellew-Moylough win hurling league titles; Victories for the Galway senior and under-23 camogie teams in Athenry; Galway United men draw with Shelbourne, but the women lose out in the FAI Cup; All this and more. == The #fulltimewhistle is Sponsored by Getsetgo Game Changing online car, home and travel insurance that's faster, better and easier! == All-Ireland Senior Football Quarter-Finals Meath 2-16 Galway 2-15 Kerry 0-32 Armagh 1-21 Donegal 1-26 Monaghan 1-20 Tyrone 0-23 Dublin 0-16 Semi-Finals - Donegal vs Meath, Kerry vs Tyrone Under-19A West Board Football League Final Oranmore/Maree 1-15 An Cheathru Rua 1-11 Under-19C North Board Football League Final Caltra 2-13 Northern Gaels 2-8 Division 4A Football League Semi-Final Kilkerrin/Clonberne 0-22 Williamstown 1-9 Division 4B Football League Semi-Finals Corofin 2-11 Ballinasloe 2-7 Claregalway 4-11 Renvyle 0-10 Division 1 Final – Corofin vs Tuam Stars – Friday 7.30pm Tuam Stadium Division 3B Final – Caltra vs St. Brendna's Friday 7.45pm Duggan Park == All-Ireland Under-16B LGFA Semi-Finals Galway 4-11 Westmeath 3-9 Armagh 2-14 Waterford 1-5 *Galway vs Armagh in All-Ireland Final on Wednesday, 16th July Feile LGFA Division 1 Final Claregalway 2-8 Ballinderry 1-6 Feile LGFA Region 3 Final St. Michael's 3-4 Castledermot 1-4 Feile LGFA Region 2 Final Kilkerrin/Clonberne 3-3 Naomh Ciarán 2-4 == All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship Galway 0-17 Waterford 0-11 Dublin 7-19 Derry 1-11 Cork 5-21 Wexford 0-11 Tipperary 4-17 Clare 0-10 *Galway & Cork qualify for semi-finals in Nowlan Park on 26th July. Next week's quarter-finals in Croke Park – Waterford vs Clare (Saturday), Tipperary vs Kilkenny (Sunday). All-Ireland under-23 Camogie Semi-Finals Galway 1-13 Kilkenny 1-12 Cork 3-13 Tipperary 0-15 *Final scheduled for Wexford Park on Saturday, 12th July == Division 1 Hurling League Final Turloughmore 2-22 Cappataggle 1-23 Division 2 Hurling League Final Killimordaly 0-25 Ballygar 2-10 Division 3 Hurling League Final Skehana/Mountbellew-Moylough 1-16 Kinvara 1-15 All-Ireland Minor Hurling Final Waterford 1-18 Clare 0-10 == FAI Women's Cup Final Athenry 0-2 Callan United SSE Airtricity League Men's Premier Division Galway United 1-1 Shelbourne Bohemians 1-1 Sligo Rovers Cork City 0-0 St. Patrick's Athletic Derry City 3-0 Drogheda United Shamrock Rovers 1-0 Waterford FAI Women's Cup Round 1 Shelbourne 2-1 Galway United Cork City 2-3 Peamount AET Wexford 1-2 Bohemians Athlone Town 6-0 Terenure Shamrock Rovers 3-1 Waterford Sligo Rovers 2-3 DLR Waves Treaty United 8-0 Ferns United Newbridge Town 2-1 Whitehall Rangers
Reporter Sally-Ann Barrett has been speaking to members of the community who fled the war and are now living in Ballinasloe, Co Galway.
ATHLETICS: Co-ordinators Lorraine Treacy (Ballinasloe Community Sports Hub) and Andrew McBride (Galway Sports Partnership) with Galway Bay FM's Darren Kelly af the final leg of Ballinasloe's Marathon Kids Ireland run
ATHLETICS: Two-time European champion and former Olympian David Gillick with Galway Bay FM's Darren Kelly at the final leg of Ballinasloe's Marathon Kids Ireland run
Galway are through to the Leinster under-20 hurling semi-finals following this 10-poin victory over Offaly in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Tuesday (8th April 2025). Jason Rabbitte got Galway's first goal but Ryan O'Donnell's hat-trick swung this tie in favour of the Tribesmen, playing their first ever home game in the Leinster championship. Galway Bay FM's match commentary team were Niall Canavan, Johnny Coen and Sean Walsh. == Galway's next game is the Leinster semi-final which takes place on Wednesday, 14th May.
On today's show: 10am-11am Trump announces 20% tariff on imports from the European Union but pharmaceuticals breather sign of relief for now Palestinian journalist Yousef Alhelou showcases his documentary in Galway Good news on the social housing front in Ballinasloe
Despite a perfect start with two early goals, Galway's minor camogie team came up second best to a strong Kilkenny team in Duggan Park, Ballinasloe on Sunday (30th March 2025). Strikes from Leah Behan and Mia Rodgers gave the girls in maroon an early 2-3 to 0-2 advantage but the Noresiders had overturned the deficit by half-time before adding four second half goals. Galway Bay FM's match commentary team were Tommy Devane and Imelda Hobbins.
Rory Burke's goal was crucial as Galway romped to a 1-28 to 0-8 victory over Laois in their opening game of the Leinster under-20 hurling championship in O'Moore Park, Portlaoise on Saturday (29th March 2025). Cullen Killeen, Conor Lawless, Jason Rabbitte and Brian Callanan were also instrumental in the scoring as Fergal Healy's charges effectively booked a quarter-final place. Galway Bay FM's match commentary team were Niall Canavan, Johnny Coen and Sean Walsh. == Galway's next game is against Offaly on Tuesday, 8th April. Throw-in at Duggan Park, Ballinasloe is 7.30pm.
***Please note some listeners may find this episode distressing*** Seven babies, delivered since January last year at Portiuncula University Hospital in Galway, suffered a brain injury as a result of oxygen deprivation (HIE). Six were immediately referred to Dublin for a treatment known as neonatal cooling. The numbers are far in excess of what might statistically be expected which raises questions about the provision of maternity services at the hospital. The HSE has announced an inquiry into the delivery of these babies as well as two stillbirths in 2023. But this is the second time in a decade that concerns about maternity provision at the Ballinasloe hospital have been raised. In 2015, an inquiry - the Walker review - found staffing issues, a lack of training and poor communication among maternity staff, which contributed to the death of three babies. Warren Reilly and his wife Lorraine lost two baby girls, Amber and Asha, at Portiuncula hospital within two years of each other, and they took part in the 2015 Walker review. He tells In the News how this week's revelations have been devastating. Irish Times journalist Sarah Burns reports on this unfolding story.Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Aideen Finnegan. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Monday's edition of Gimme 5, Diarmuid from Ballinasloe took a well-needed break from the water outages to compete in Gimme 5 with Dave & Fionnuala!
There are big matches taking place in the All-Ireland League for Galwegians and Corinthians, plus some important contests in the Connacht Women's Senior League. And the Men's Connacht Cup gets underway. To set the scene, here's Galway Bay FM's William Davies. == Selected Fixtures (Saturday 1pm Hamilton Park) – Sligo vs South East Galway Warriors (Senior Women's League) (Saturday 7pm) – Ballina vs Corinthians, Monivea vs Ballyhaunis (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup) (Saturday 7.30pm Tuam) – Tuam vs Loughrea (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup) (Saturday, 8pm Dexcom Stadium) – Connacht vs Lyon (European Challenge Cup) (Sundy 12pm) – Galwegians vs Westport, University of Galway vs Tuam/Oughterard (Senior Women's League) (Sunday 1pm Corinthian Park) – OLBC/Corinthians vs Ballinrobe (Senior Women's League) (Sunday 2pm) – Ballinasloe vs Buccaneers, Connemara vs Sligo, Creggs vs Corrib, Dunmore vs Castlebar, Westport vs Ballinrobe (Men's Connacht Rugby Junior Cup)
HURLING: Easkey 0-18 Ballinasloe 1-11 (Connacht Junior Hurling Final match report with Galway Bay FM's Sean Walsh)
HURLING: Ballinasloe manager Derek Frehill with Galway Bay FM's Niall Canavan after their Connacht Junior Final defeat to Sligo's Easkey
HURLING: Easkey manager Padraig Mannion with Galway Bay FM's Niall Canavan after their Connacht Junior Final win over Ballinasloe
On this week's show: Ballinasloe beaten by Sligo's Easkey in the Connacht Junior Hurling Final; Kinvara win the Junior F Hurling title against Salthill/Knocknacarra; Defeat for St. Michael's in the Connacht Intermediate Football Semi-Final; An Cheathrú Rua qualify for the Connacht Junior Football Final; Ahascragh/Caltra take Connacht Camogie Honours; A busy weekend of provincial and club rugby with Connacht Eagles falling to Leinster A; And we've soccer, basketball and much more. == The #fulltimewhistle is Sponsored by Getsetgo Game Changing online car, home and travel insurance that's faster, better and easier!
HURLING: Coach Colum O'Meara with Galway Bay FM's Darren Kelly looks ahead to the Connacht Junior Final between Ballinasloe and Easkey
In this latest episode, we dive into the highs, the drama, and the standout performances at the Maryland 5*. Join us as we chat with David Doel, fresh off an extraordinary podium finish aboard Galileo Nieuwmoed. David takes us through his cross-country round of the day and reflects on his journey to the top, despite a challenging year with his horse. Nicole and Sam also break down: The five-star showdown between Ballaghmor Class and Falco . What made Ian Stark's cross-country course a true test. How the American crowd embraced the European riders. The significance of Ballaghmor Class' historic win with Oliver Townend. Sponsors: Dubarry of Ireland, established in Ballinasloe in 1937, is renowned for its premium waterproof leather boots and country clothing, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials. Originating from a joint venture in footwear production, the company was named after Madame du Barry to distinguish itself. Dubarry's flagship products include the pioneering GORE-TEX®-licensed "Shamrock Boot" for sailing and the popular "Galway Country Boot" for outdoor pursuits, sold internationally. Their commitment to quality and innovation continues with designs developed in-house at their headquarters in Ballinasloe. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
It's time for the Maryland Preview Show!! Sam and Diarm highlight the competition between top-rated horses, the significance of the event in the equestrian calendar, and the emotional stakes for riders. They also cover the performance history of key horses, the challenges of making time in competitions like Burghley and Maryland 2023, and the importance of the dressage phase. Sponsors: Dubarry of Ireland, established in Ballinasloe in 1937, is renowned for its premium waterproof leather boots and country clothing, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials. Originating from a joint venture in footwear production, the company was named after Madame du Barry to distinguish itself. Dubarry's flagship products include the pioneering GORE-TEX®-licensed "Shamrock Boot" for sailing and the popular "Galway Country Boot" for outdoor pursuits, sold internationally. Their commitment to quality and innovation continues with designs developed in-house at their headquarters in Ballinasloe. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
In this Inside Maryland show Diarm chats to Tamie Smith about her journey with the wonder horse Mai Baum, exploring the highs and lows of their competitive career together. Tamie shares insights into the challenges faced, the pressure of major competitions, and the emotional weight of winning. The show reflects on the significance of Mai Baum in the eventing world and the bittersweet nature of their final five-star event together. Sponsors: Dubarry of Ireland, established in Ballinasloe in 1937, is renowned for its premium waterproof leather boots and country clothing, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials. Originating from a joint venture in footwear production, the company was named after Madame du Barry to distinguish itself. Dubarry's flagship products include the pioneering GORE-TEX®-licensed "Shamrock Boot" for sailing and the popular "Galway Country Boot" for outdoor pursuits, sold internationally. Their commitment to quality and innovation continues with designs developed in-house at their headquarters in Ballinasloe. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.
Inside Maryland is back! As we gear up for the 2024 Mars Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill, our latest episode dives into the behind-the-scenes action. Event CEO Jeff Newman, Competition Director Joanie Morris, and our team reveal what's new this year, the excitement around Ian Stark's final cross-country design, and the electric atmosphere building up to one of the most competitive editions yet. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a first-timer, this is your all-access pass to what makes Maryland a top event in global equestrian sport. Sponsors: Dubarry of Ireland, established in Ballinasloe in 1937, is renowned for its premium waterproof leather boots and country clothing, combining traditional craftsmanship with innovative materials. Originating from a joint venture in footwear production, the company was named after Madame du Barry to distinguish itself. Dubarry's flagship products include the pioneering GORE-TEX®-licensed "Shamrock Boot" for sailing and the popular "Galway Country Boot" for outdoor pursuits, sold internationally. Their commitment to quality and innovation continues with designs developed in-house at their headquarters in Ballinasloe. EquiRatings Eventing Podcast: Don't forget to follow us on Instagram and Facebook.