Podcasts about County Clare

In this episode Danny Houlihan travels across the Shannon River to a special place in history called MoyLougha County Clare birth place of Saint Senan of Scattery. This episode is Danny's first from the Clare County and not the last. This new  pioneering series explores the Shannon Estuary Way and its rich history its people and the culture of County Clare.

Women and girls across County Clare are being invited to step outside, try something new, and embrace all the outdoors has to offer, as HER Outdoors Week returns for its fifth year. Running from August 11th to 17th, the national initiative aims to boost female participation in outdoor sports and recreation. In Clare, there's a packed schedule of events to get involved in, from surfing and snorkelling to hiking and cycling. To talk more about what's happening locally and why this campaign continues to grow in impact each year, Peter O'Connell was joined by by Jessica O'Keeffe, Outdoor Recreation Officer with Clare Sports Partnership.

A major new healthcare study has recommended that a Model 4 hospital be developed in Ennis, County Clare, as part of efforts to ease ongoing pressure at University Hospital Limerick (UHL). The study was unveiled this summer at the prestigious International System Dynamics Conference (ISDC) in Boston, where it was recognised as a vital contribution to global healthcare planning. Led by Irish researcher Sinéad Madden, the work uses advanced simulation to examine future demand for emergency and hospital care across the Mid-West (MW) region. The model, called MIDCARE (Midwest Integrated Demand and Capacity Analysis for Regional Emergency-care), is the first of its kind in Ireland. It uses real-world data to simulate hospital needs over time, considering population growth, demand for emergency services, and workforce shortages. Peter O'Connell spoke with Sinéad Madden, and she began by explaining what the MIDCARE study is all about.

The Canada Ireland Foundation (CIF) is pleased to announce that Helen Downes has been elected to the Foundation's Board of Directors, effective immediately. Helen serves as Chief Executive of Shannon Chamber in Shannon, County Clare, Ireland. She has been instrumental in transforming the Chamber into a dynamic force for regional and economic development and business advocacy. Under her leadership, the Chamber has launched a series of strategic initiatives that foster collaboration between the public and private sectors, both nationally and internationally, significantly expanding its membership and influence. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Helen Downes, Shannon Chamber CEO.

With schools closed and holiday season in full swing, balancing work and family can be a challenge, especially if you're working remotely. But in County Clare, local DigiHubs are offering a practical solution. Operated by Clare County Council, these Connected Hubs provide quiet, professional workspaces across the county. From Kilkee to Ennistymon, making it easier for working parents and holidaymakers to stay connected while enjoying summer with the family. To tell us more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Jackie Dermody, IS Analyst Developer at Digiclare with Clare County Council.

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.

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.

There is said to be devastation in a County Clare village, following the tragic death of a mother and her two children in a shooting incident in Fermanagh. 45-year-old Vanessa Whyte from Barefield and her children Sara and James Rutledge, who were aged 13 and 14, died in a gun attack at their home in Maguiresbridge on Wednesday. Vanessa was found dead alongside one of her children, while the second child later succumbed to their injuries at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. A man, who also suffered gunshot wounds, remains in a serious condition in hospital. Police have said a triple murder and attempted suicide is one line of inquiry - as a man from the same household remains seriously injured in hospital. Meanwhile, a vigil will take place later in the grounds of Maguiresbridge Primary School. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Fr Tom Fitzpatrick, Barefield Parish Priest and the families neighbour, Ann Norton If you have been affected by this story, you can contact Samaritans on 116 123 or Pieta House on 1800 247 247 or text help to 51444.

A County Clare village is said to be devastated, following the tragic death of a mother and her two children in a shooting incident in Fermanagh. 45 year-old Vanessa Whyte from Barefield and her children Sara and James Rutledge, who were aged 13 and 14, died following the incident at a house in Maguiresbridge yesterday. A murder investigation is underway, following the incident at a house on the Drummeer Road yesterday morning. Emergency services were alerted after a 999 call was placed from inside the house. Vanessa Whyte was found dead alongside one of her children, while the second child later succumbed to their injuries at the Royal Victoria Hospital in Belfast. A man, who also suffered gunshot wounds, remains in a serious condition in hospital. PSNI Superintendent Robert Magowan says they're investigating a suspected murder and attempted suicide. An Garda Síochána has been assisting the PSNI in liaising with family members in Clare. Barefield native Vanessa Whyte, who attended secondary school at Coláiste Muire in Ennis, moved to Fermanagh several years ago. The Veterinary Surgeon was employed by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs in Enniskillen. Both she and her two children Sara and James have been described as active members of two local GAA clubs; St Mary's Gaelic Football Club in Maguiresbridge and St Patrick's Hurling Club in Lisbellaw. The Mayor of Ennis says those who knew her are devastated and in shock following news of the tragic incident. Councillor Mary Howard believes the Barefield community will rally around their family in this time of unimaginable grief.

Clare is in the running to become the European Volunteering Capital for 2027. Representatives of Clare County Council and Clare Volunteer Centre travelled to Brussels for the official presentation of the “candidacy certificate” for the prestigious European Volunteering Capital 2027 title, a key part of the bidding process. If successful in the bid, County Clare would become an internationally recognised centre for excellence in policies and programmes supporting volunteers and volunteering. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sharon Meaney, Manager of Clare Volunteer Centre and Brendan Boyce, Integration Support Coordinator for Clare County Council.

Cara thought her family's summer trip to Ireland would be quiet… until the old lighthouse blinked back to life in the middle of the night. When she investigates, she finds a glowing journal, whispers from the past, and a message meant just for her. A mystery set on the cliffs of County Clare, where stories—and light—never really disappear.

In this episode of All the Saints of Ireland, host Thomas and guest Michelle look at some of the Saints from County Clare. L'articolo E54 | All the Saints of Ireland – Some Saints of County Clare proviene da Radio Maria.

A motorsport talent from County Clare is featured in the official launch of the European Motor Show. Broadford's Laura O'Connell is part of the launch for the show, which will take place at the RDS in Dublin from 31st January – 1st February 2026. Laura joined us on Morning Focus last December, to talk about competing in the first-ever Formula Woman Nations Cup qualifiers in Dubai. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Laura O'Connell once again! PHOTO CREDIT: European Motor Show

In this week's History in Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by local historian and author, Colm Liddy to focus on Lisdoonvarna And County Clare 150 Years Ago If you have any stories you would like to share with Colm about your town, you can contact him at colmliddy@eircom.net or Clare FM at focus@clare.fm.

Palestinian GAA clubs from the West Bank are set to arrive in Ireland next week (18th July) for a tour, with a visit to County Clare as part of the itinerary. The 47 participants, including 33 children between 9 and 16 years, will travel from Tulkarm, Ramallah, Jenin, Beit Lahm and Al Khalil for a two-week tour to foster friendship, solidarity, cultural understanding and athletic development. They are expected in Clare towards the end of July. For more on this Alan Morrissey was joined by Claire Liddy, social care worker. PHOTO CREDIT: Éire Óg GAA

Dr David O'Connor, Assistant Professor in Dublin City University in the School of Chemical Sciences and Dr Yvonne Williams, GP based in County Clare

Tributes are being paid to a humanitarian from County Clare who passed away last weekend. Mike McDonagh, late of Miltown Malbay and formerly of Ennis, died last Saturday. Mike was a former United Nations official who also worked for Concern for more than 20 years, including serving as country director in Laos, Somalia, Angola, Rwanda, North Korea, and Zimbabwe, amongst numerous locations. Mike is survived by his wife Sarah McNiece, daughters Saoirse and Molly, and extended family and friends. His funeral mass will take place in St Joseph's Church, Miltown Malbay on Friday (from 5pm – 7pm). To Discuss this further, Peter O'Connell was joined by David McMahon of the United Nations and Paul Heslop, who knew Mike in Angola (1994), they shared a house together in Khartoum (2004-2006) and also from Libya and Oman CONF

It's been 10 years since the Marriage Equality Referendum made history in Ireland. But what has changed and what still needs to be done? Quare Clare LGBTQIA+ Support and Social Group are inviting the public to join them for a morning of celebration, reflection, and discussion on Tuesday, June 24th (10.30 am – 1pm) at Ennis Library. The event features a panel of LGBTQIA+ voices from County Clare, chaired by Dr Anne Mulhall of UCD, and a special presentation from Bulelani Mfaco on global LGBTQIA+ rights and the ongoing challenges for migrants and others whose needs remain unmet. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sarah Clancy from the Clare Public Participation Network.

Dr Paul Deane, Senior Lecturer in Clean Energy UCC discusses the news that, from today, the ESB is ceasing to burn coal at its Moneypoint electricity generation station in County Clare.

Last April, Alan Morrissey chatted with Aoife Hammond from Common Knowledge about Spreag, their new series of community gatherings celebrating the brilliant climate action already happening across County Clare. The first Spreag took place in early May. The second installment of the four-part series will be held at Common Knowledge in Kilfenora on Thursday, the 19th of June. To find out more, was joined by Aoife Hammond of Common Knowledge and Anja Murray, Chairperson of Common Knowledge Ecologist, nature & environmental writer, documentary maker.

On today's bonus Destination Special we're heading to Ireland, one of my favourite places in the world. Ireland has this special kind of magic. It asks you to slow down, to dig beneath the surface, to chat to the people behind the bar and to take your time - to walk, to wander, to just sit and soak it all up.Joining me is someone who knows the country inside and out - the brilliant comedian and actor, Ardal O'Hanlon. You'll know Ardal, of course, from TV's Father Ted, where he stole the show as the endlessly lovable Father Dougal - and from the extremely popular BBC series Death in Paradise, where he swapped windswept clifftops for tropical crime-solving in the Caribbean. He's also an incredible writer, stand-up, and most recently, travel presenter, in The Emerald Isles, his BBC series which explored Ireland's lesser-known islands, uncovering their culture, music, and wild beauty.In this episode, Ardal shares the places in Ireland that have stayed with him, from childhood summers in Galway and Donegal to his all time favourite destination, a lunar landscape in County Clare, and my favourite part of the episode, his hidden gems, which really bring to life some of the wild islands off the mainland that he visited while making his TV series - a lot to add to your bucket list. We talk about the joy of slowness, the quirks of island life, and his new tour - Not Himself - which he'll be taking across the UK and Ireland soon.So whether you're planning a trip to Ireland, dreaming about one, or you're just here for the stories - settle in and enjoy!Destination Recap:Crockwell, Galway, Co. GalwayConnemara National Park, Co. GalwayMagheragallan Beach, Gweedore, Co. DonegalEregal Mountain, Co. DonegalThe Burren, Co. Clare Skellig Michael, Co. KerryGreat Blasket, Co. Kerry Tory Island, Co. Donegal Rathlin, Co. Antrim Sligo, Co. SligoSaltee Islands, Co. Wexford Visit Ireland.com for more inspiration planning your trip.Ardal is heading back on tour this autumn with his brand new stand-up show, Not Himself. You can find all the tour dates and ticket info at ardalohandlon.com.Thanks so much for listening today. I'll be back with a brand new season - Season 15 - in a couple of weeks! In the meantime, come and follow me on Instagram - I'm @hollyrubenstein - and you'll also find me on TikTok. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A strategic marine alliance is coming together in County Clare. The Kilrush-headquartered Irish Whale and Dolphin Group and the newly formed Banner Gleo have joined forces, with support from the Local Biodiversity Action Fund (National Parks and Wildlife Service) and Clare County Council, to build knowledge and share experiences of Liscannor Bay. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Dr Simon Berrow, Chief Executive Officer, Irish Whale and Dolphin Group in Kilrush. Image (c) Basking Shraks in Liscannor Bay by James Organ

Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg was the location for a recent, fantastic display of inclusivity in sport for students with additional needs.  Realtaí an Chláir saw children from over 28 schools across County Clare with additional needs taking part.  The event was organised by Ballyea National School.  To learn more about the day, and how it went, Alan Morrissey was joined by Réaltaí an Chláir 2025 Cuman na mBunscol An Chláir, PRO Muireann Mescal. Image: Clare FM

Song: Freedom Over Fear Music by: Tembre de Carteret   Notes: Which freedoms do we get to choose? What are the places or times in your life when certain freedoms were not available? Have you ever lost freedoms because of violence or threat? Sometimes it's hard to release fears that may have helped protect us in the past -- and sometimes the feeling of letting go of fear is like standing on an ocean cliff, proclaiming again and again, "I choose freedom over fear!"   Songwriter Info: Tembre de Carteret lives in County Clare, Ireland, and has led a beautiful online singing circle called "We May Sing" since 2020. You can learn more about her and the way in which she facilitates, mentors, and builds song communities at her website, www.tembresong.com   Sharing Info: Tembre says: "This song is free to share with your circle of loved ones and singing group. I just ask you credit me and I whole heartedly welcome any recording/video you do of the song with your group, please send to me."   Song Learning Time Stamps: Start time of teaching: 00:03:45 Start time of reprise: 00:16:35   Links: Tembre's website: http://www.tembresong.com  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tembre.decarteret  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tembredecarteret/  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5NOOeWM2w3Og68acT2zPei  Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbhgwiqOGcvICIjSsJq6iJg    Nuts & Bolts: 4:4, major, 3-layer   Join this community of people who love to use song to help navigate life? Absolutely:  https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/335811/81227018071442567/share   Help us keep going: reviews, comments, encouragement, plus contributions... we float on your support.  https://www.abreathofsong.com/gratitude-jar.html

Bunratty will be the canine capital of Clare on Sunday week! Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will be hosting its first-ever Bark in the Park event Ireland's newest dog show is set to offer a packed programme of light-hearted competition as canines of all shapes, sizes, and temperaments take centre stage at the County Clare visitor attraction. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Events Manager at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park, Marie Brennan and Tom Mernagh, Guide Dogs for the Blind. Photo(C): Marie Brennan

The Best of Clare Awards 2025 in association with Ei Electronics will take place on Friday, the 30th of May at the Old Ground Hotel. The winner of this year's Local Hero Award is Maureen O'Neill Regan, the President of the County Clare Association of New York. Maureen, a proud native New Yorker with deep roots in Labasheeda through her late father, has long been a passionate ambassador for County Clare in the United States. As President of the New York Clare Association, Maureen has dedicated decades to preserving and promoting Clare's rich heritage, culture, and tourism. Through her tireless efforts, the saffron and blue of Clare have flown high at St. Patrick's Day parades, Irish festivals, and cultural events across New York. Her unwavering commitment ensures that Clare's spirit continues to thrive across the U.S. On Thursday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Maureen O'Neill Regan to ask her what it felt like to win the Local Hero award. Photo(C): Clare FM

As you have been hearing on Clare FM News, County Clare recorded the fifth highest number of suicides in the country last year. New data published by the Central Statistics Office shows a total of 19 suicides were recorded in Clare in 2024. Only Cork County, Dublin City, Wexford and South Dublin recorded more than Clare. Of these 19, 18 were male, giving Clare the fourth-highest rate of male suicide in the country after Wexford, Cork County and Dublin City. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Director of Clare Samaritans and Newmarket-on-Fergus native, Pat White and Retired Doctor from Miltown Malbay, Dr Billy O'Connell. Photo(C): Canva

If you've ever longed for a corner of Ireland that feels untouched, authentic, and refreshingly uncrowded, set your sights on the Loop Head Peninsula in County Clare. Tucked away from the tourist-heavy paths of the Wild Atlantic Way, Loop Head offers a blend of natural beauty, history, and heartfelt hospitality that rewards those who take... The post Discovering Loop Head Peninsula: Ireland's Rugged Beauty Without the Crowds appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Alans next guest's story begins in County Clare, but it has wound its way to her becoming Mayor of the hometown of none other than William Shakespeare! Dani Hunter hails from Shannon but is now Mayor of Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council in the UK, the birthplace of the legendary playwright, and poet. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Shannon native, Mayor of Stratford-upon-Avon Town Council, Dani Hunter. Photo(C): ShotByJude.com

Welcome, welcome, welcome to the Distraction Pieces Podcast with Scroobius Pip!This week Pip is joined by absolute Irish acting royalty SIMONE KIRBY!A rare treat here with the wonderful Simone catching up and checking in with Pip, in a celebration of so much of what makes the performances we see what they are. Simone's been putting in work on the stage and screen for a minute, and you will have surely witnessed her greatness in such projects as the ones in the episode title (and a cursory glance on IMDB), but it's always a valuable gift to hear about the life behind the lines. From growing up in County Clare and her origin story, to making it through the ranks of the acting path, as well as what a future in theatre could have looked like, moving to London, working with her husband and child, and an audition concluding with a simple note to tone down the Bond. How about that. Enjoy Simone, and catch up with the shows and projects she's involved in.PIP'S PATREON PAGE if you're of a supporting natureNOTES ON BLINDNESSPEAKY BLINDERSCALM WITH HORSESHIS DARK MATERIALSIMDBSPEECH DEVELOPMENT WEBSTOREPIP TWITCH • (music stuff)PIP INSTAGRAMPIP TWITTERPIP PATREONPIP IMDBPOD BIBLE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On Monday's Morning Focus Alan was joined by Cathal Joyce. Cathal, who's visually impaired is taking part in a fundraising cycle for Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. The cycle, which sees participants travelling from Mizen Head in Cork to Donegal's Malin Head is currently underway. The cyclists will be spending tonight in County Clare.

Support is being sought to save a musical instrument crafting course. Lincoln College at the University of Hull in the UK has announced that it will no longer be accepting new students onto the musical instrument craft courses at Newark School of Musical Instrument Crafts. This is the only full-time course of its kind in the whole of Ireland and the UK. To find out why it is important, and why it is of huge significance to musicians in County Clare, Alan Morrissey was joined by local musician living in Lisdoonvarna, Naomi Powell.

We really get in there with our guest on this week's show, Cormac McGinley. Cormac runs walking tours along the Cliffs of Moher and all over the Burren in County Clare, one of our favorite places in Ireland. Name an -ology and Cormac probably studied it, and he brings his love of science to his love of Ireland with him on every walk he leads.On this episode, we speak with Cormac about really getting to know a place deeply; ecological wrong turns and the unnatural Irish landscape; the impact of consumer culture and how to separate needs from wants; and how he is working on building a life so that if tourism vanishes, he can still live in his favorite place. Much like our previous guests, Cormac also imparts some valuable life advice: “Time is all we have, so retain a sense of humor and try not to be a dick.”Dyed Green is a project of Bog & Thunder, whose mission is to highlight the best of Irish food and culture, through food tours, events, and media. Find out more at www.bogandthunder.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit katemccabe.substack.com

More Irish people have been to Spain than Clare! That's the remarkable finding from new research by Airbnb. It reveals that, while 74% of Irish people holiday abroad at least once a year, almost half - 48% - of people in Ireland want to see and explore more of their own country and almost 1 in 10 would like to visit Clare for the first time. To help Clare welcome more visitors to the region and spread the benefits of tourism through rural communities, Airbnb has announced the Rural Tourism Fund - committing €100,000 in grants to support innovative tourism projects in rural Irish communities. Projects supporting local tourism in County Clare could receive up to €10,000 in grant funding through the Fund. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Miltown Malbay AirBnB host, Lorna Cahill. Photo(C): John Tekeridis from Pexels via Canva

A legendary daughter of County Clare could soon be immortalised in mural form. Kilfenora Tidy Towns is seeking planning permission for the erection of a mural of famed aristocrat Máire Rua O'Brien on the east-facing wall of the Burren Sonas Steiner Kindergarten which was formerly is Máire Rua Craft Shop. If granted approval, the piece will be designed by Liscannor-based artist Marcus O'Connor with funding provided by Corofin Fianna Fáil Councillor Joe Killeen along with Doolin Ferries. Edel Barry of Kilfenora Tidy Towns believes Máire's legacy has been unfairly tarnished over the centuries.

Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) has announced the first in a series of free ‘Citizen Science Water and Land training programmes'. The series will get underway on Saturday, 10th of May in Flagmount and Ennistymon. Building on previous biodiversity training offered by CLDC, these new, hands-on, immersive courses will focus on increasing community awareness and understanding of the rich biodiversity in the waters and on the land of County Clare. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Development Officer LEADER Programme, Deirdre Morrissey and Co-founder of Cork Nature Network, Gill Weyman. Photo(C): ClareFM

Amid the trees of County Clare, a living memorial has taken shape: The Forest That Won't Forget, which has been created in tribute to the women and families affected by the cervical check failures.Joining Kieran to discuss this memorial and why the 221+ group commissioned it is Lyn Fenton, Patient Advocate with 221+ Group and John Conway, Visual Artist and Co-Collaborator on the Forest that Won't Forget with Fiona Whelan.Image: 221+

Spreag, a new series of community gatherings at Common Knowledge celebrating the brilliant climate action already happening across County Clare gets underway early next month. The Common Knowledge Centre will host the first Spreag on Thursday, the 8th of May. It will kick off with a walk of the land at Common Knowledge, followed by a conversation with Dr Aoibhinn Ní Shúilleabháin and Dr Áine Bird from Burrenbeo. It will be hosted by Aoife Hammond of Common Knowledge... To discuss this more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Project Coordinator Common Knowledge, Aoife Hammond. Photo(C): https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=663820299679313&set=pb.100081540452627.-2207520000

Two local paddlers, living in County Clare, have achieved an extraordinary feat on the international stage. Paul Austin, from O'Briensbridge, and Killaloe man Barry Walsh, representing Shannon Paddlers Kayaking Club, successfully completed the Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race over the Easter weekend. The 125-mile endurance race is widely regarded as the toughest non-stop kayak/canoe event in the world. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Barry Walsh, from Killaloe and Paul Austin, from O'Briensbridge, who completed the world's longest non-stop canoe race. Photo(C): Clare FM

An important fundraiser for homeless people in County Clare will take place in Miltown Malbay later this month. The event, which sees non-profit group Birdbag teaming up with Mid West Simon Community, will be held on the 26th of April. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by The Organiser, Máire Garvey.

County Clare has been successful in its bid to become the first county-wide certified sustainable tourism destination in Ireland. The Banner County has been awarded Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Destination Certification, recognised as a global leader in managing standards for sustainable travel and tourism, following a visit to Clare last month by certifying body EarthCheck. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Deirdre O'Shea, Head of Tourism with Clare County Council, and Carol Gleeson, Manager of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark and Green Team member. Photo(C): ClareFM

The recent discovery of the fossilised remains of a unique prehistoric shark along the coastline of the Burren will be outlined at the third annual Geopark Academy in County Clare next month (24th May). To find out more about the discovery,Alan Morissey spoke with Dr. Eamon Doyle from the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark. Pic (c) Clare County Council

The initiative, which is in response to Crohn's and Colitis Ireland's (CCI) ongoing calls for greater accessibility to public restrooms, is set to make a significant impact in County Clare. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Co-founder and Chair, Jan Strozer, and Hilary Tonge. Photo(C): Canva

The Clare Association, Dublin, aims to promote the social, cultural and economic interests of County Clare. The association is encouraging people to get involved and express interest in joining the committee. To find out more, Peter O'Connell was joined on the line by outgoing chairperson, Tom Conway. Photo(C): Clare Association Dublin Facebook page

Clare Museum's Lecture Series continues Wednesday, April 9th at 7.30pm. The talk by Dr Karol Mullaney-Dignam is entitled ‘Morals, manners and customs: observations from the pre-Famine era in County Clare'. The observations of selected visitors to County Clare in the decades before the Great Hunger (1845-52), focusing on the morals, manners, and customs of the people at the time will be discussed at the talk. To find out more about this, Alan Morrissey was joined by curator of Clare Museum, John Rattigan. Photo (c): https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1159208002674518&set=gm.2196155070837225

Thinking of moving to Ireland from the U.S.? You're not alone, and this episode will help make the whole process a little less daunting.This week I'm joined by Jeremy Strozer - consultant at Expatsi.com and an American expat who moved to Ireland with his family in 2020. Jeremy had to learn a lot of what he knows now the hard way, but now helps other U.S. expats to get perspective on their move and take a practical approach to what can be a very emotional and turbulent time.In Part One of our conversation, we talk through how to approach your Visa, how to get a sense of where in Ireland might suit your lifestyle, what surprised Jeremy about buying a house here, and why the Irish Health Insurance system requires a bit of patience and tact to navigate.Jeremy shares all the practical guidance he can offer as someone who's made the move with his family, and he'll be back to talk about even more in Part 2.Main Topics discussed in this Episode:Understanding Visa Options: Jeremy outlines the different visa pathways available depending on your life stage and how to approach the decision based on your personal circumstances.Choosing Where to Live in Ireland: How to explore different counties before committing, and why his family ended up settling in County Clare.The Realities of Buying a House in Ireland: Jeremy shares his experience with the Irish property market, the quirks of bidding through auctioneers, and how the pace and culture around home-buying differs from the U.S.Navigating the Irish Health Insurance System: They talk through how health coverage works in Ireland, the importance of planning ahead, and why managing expectations is key when accessing care as an expat.Adjusting to Life in a New Country: Jeremy reflects on the emotional highs and lows of relocation and how to find balance and stability during the transition.Contact Jeremy:As an exclusive deal for Taxbytes For Expats listeners, you can book a Consultation Call with Jeremy for 20% off. Click the following link to book your consultation today: https://calendly.com/strozerj/ireland-consultation-clone.*****If you loved this episode or have a similar story, we'd love to hear from you! You can get in touch with us directly at info@expattaxes.ie or leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify.Taxbytes for Expats is brought to you by ExpatTaxes.ie. If you're considering moving to or from Ireland and would like support with your taxes, book a consultation today: https://expattaxes.ie/services-and-pricing/.Mentioned in this episode:Check out ExpatTaxes.ie to get your Tax sorted!

In Triratna, learning to understand what is truly beautiful is seen as a path to Enlightenment itself. In this episode we find ourselves exploring this in an unexpected and extraordinary way at the seat of all Buddhist paths and myths, Bodh Gaya in India. Not far from the bodhi tree, where the Buddha's great achievement is said to have taken place, you'll find us deep in conversation with visitiing leaders from the Dublin Buddhist Centre about their vision of building a Buddhist retreat centre in Eire: a realm of beauty and a fitting home for distinctively Irish Dharma practice in the heart of County Clare. We hear about the retreat centre's name Shubha Vihara—The Place of Beauty—and how it sits alongside the legendary mythic names, spaces and stories of Ireland, before and after St. Patrick. We meet Brigid, Cuchulain (Setanta), and Fionn mac Cumhail as he catches the Salmon of Knowledge; and visit in our imagination Lough Derg, the ancient passage tomb of Newgrange, and the Hill of Tara—crowning place for the High Kings of Ireland. All while exploring aspects of Christianity's impact on the country's pagan spiritual history, and the role of positive warrior culture as it manifests and is transformed in both Buddhist and Irish contexts.  It's hard work building magic spaces and the team give us a glimpse into what's involved on the ground trying to transmute spreadsheets and fundraising calls into the magic of genuine community, alive with deep possibilities, where practice is—somehow—palpably rooted in the native earth and energies of a specific land and a society ready for change. Join us for an inspiring episode for the ages about a distinctively Buddhist contirbution to Irish culture.  As a bonus, we close this conversation with a recitation of the traditional Buddhist ethical precepts rendered into Gaelic. Beautiful indeed! Show Notes Support the creation of Shubha Vihara, the Irish Triratna Retreat Centre Explore key stories from Irish mythology Dublin Buddhist Centre The Windhorse Trust FutureDharma Fund *** Visit The Buddhist Centre Live (events year-round on Buddhism, mindfulness, meditation, and culture) Come meditate with us online six days a week! Theme music by Ackport! Used with kind permission.

Martin Hayes is a world-renowned Irish fiddler from Feakle in east Clare, a place steeped in music and tradition. Martin is well known for his distinctive and soulful style of playing that blends traditional Irish music with innovative contemporary interpretations. He's an iconic figure in Irish music. From his early years winning multiple All-Ireland Fiddle Championships to his celebrated work with the late Dennis Cahill and The Gloaming, Martin is a man who brings great depth, expression and beauty to all that he does. It was a joy to have this chat with him and to hear about his early influences, his years in the US, his thoughts on mediation, music and culture, and his new life in Spain. This episode is also part of my Creative Souls of Clare podcast series, where you can find lots of great conversations with some of County Clare's leading creative lights. Subscribe, share, rate, review and donate to support this podcast. Thanks to patrons who chip in at www.loveandcourage.org Host Ruairí McKiernan is a well-known social innovator, charity founder, campaigner, counsellor, consultant, and author. Find out more via: Website | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn and check out his book Hitching for Hope. He also has another podcast called Creative Souls of Clare.

Send us a textTogether, Sky Kelsey and Marty Smith serve as founding members of the traditional Irish band The Safehouse. Kelsey and Smith have been the consistent leading members of the group and have played together for many years.During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, they honed their sound as a duo for the first time. Kelsey and his then-girlfriend (now-wife) stayed with Smith for a few months, and they locked in completely on finding a sound together.Since then, they've switched between performing with a band lineup in The Safehouse and as a duo group. Both projects focus on playing traditional Irish music.Smith grew up in Wyoming while Kelsey grew up in Alaska. Neither environment is known for its vibrant Irish music scene. However, both individuals found Irish music in their communities.In particular, Kelsey embraced the music developed in southern Ireland's County Clare. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, a native County Clare band, The Ceili Bandits, brought much of the county's traditional music to Alaska. Completely captivated by Clare music, he embraced Ireland's oral tradition. He started learning fiddle from age twelve under the mentorship of James Kelly, who Kelsey cites as his biggest influence. By the time Kelsey was old enough to gig in bars, Clare music had been well established in his community, so he completely embraced the music and started learning music from across Ireland.Meanwhile, growing up with folk music, Smith has performed in countless groups even outside of The Safehouse. These groups include Avourneen, their spinoff duo Smithstein, and Coisir.Smith started by playing dance tunes from the British Isles on the hammered dulcimer, and he now primarily focuses on playing the Irish bouzouki and singing. He's been mentored by bouzouki teachers such as Andy Irvine, Aaron Jones, and Roger Landes. Thank you for listening to The Mountain-Ear Podcast, featuring the news and culture from peak to peak!If you want to be featured in the podcast, contact the host at media@themountainear.com!SUBSCRIBE ONLINE and use the coupon code PODCAST for A 10% DISCOUNT for ALL NEW SUBSCRIBERS! Subscribe at https://www.themtnear.com/subscribe!You can find us online by visiting https://www.themtnear.com!Find us on Facebook @mtnear!Share this podcast around!! Scroll near the bottom of our website's homepage or visit the podcast's main hub at https://themtnearpodcast.buzzsprout.com!You can contact our editor at info@themountainear.com!Thank you for listening!

When Niall Williams releases a book, we positively cheer.  His writing feels like coming home to us.  A home full of warm fires, good stories, kind neighbors, strong community and unspoken love.  All of them and more illuminate his latest: The Time of the Child.  We could not recommend this book more.  Buy it.  And then buy it for everyone on your holiday list who loves to read.  And then sit by your holiday fire with all of those folks who read it and listen to this episode of the Book Case.  You will be so glad you did. Books mentioned in this week's episode: The Time of the Child by Niall Williams This is Happiness by Niall Williams  History of Rain by Niall Williams  Four Letters of Love by Niall Williams As it Is in Heaven by Niall Williams O Come Ye Back to Ireland: Our First Year in County Clare by Niall Williams and Christine Breen The Fall of Light by Niall Williams In Kiltumper: A Year in an Irish Garden by Niall Williams and Christine Breen Boy in the World by Niall Williams John by Niall Williams When Summer's in the Meadow by Niall Williams and Christine Breen Bel Canto: The Annotated Edition by Ann Patchett Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices