POPULARITY
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 8th-9th November 2025 -14.38 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
This week Carl Kinsella and I discuss the week's stories, from the democratic success in America to the death of Focus Ireland founder Sister Stan and a 'lion' on the prowl in East Clare.To support the podcast and access bonus episodes, join the community on Patreon here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 1st-2nd November 2025 -14.11 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
East Clare Community Co-Op's fundraising campaign to purchase their premises will take place tomorrow evening Thursday, the 6th November at 7pm. The launch of their efforts to save the future home of the Co-Op will take place at the premises in Scariff. Alan Morrissey was joined on Wednesday's Morning Focus by Sam Rogers, the Secretary and member of the Management Committee. Photo (c) Heads Up Clare
Compiled by Ursula Hogan and read by Noel Hogan. News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 25th-26th October 2025 -13.58 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
Originally broadcast as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th October 2025 hosted by Marie McNamara and Trish Nugent Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com
came back into studio to thank the people of East Clare and beyond for money raised for the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust during recent fundraising events that they helped to organise. Originally broadcast as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th October 2025 hosted by Marie McNamara and Trish Nugent. Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com.
of Scariff Gda station. Originally broadcast Live from the SBCR Studio on 11th November 2025 as part of Saturday Chronicle hosted by Pat O'Brien and Anthony Lenihan. Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 18th-19th October 2025 -13.48 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
Hope is being expressed that a decision to pedestrianise an East Clare bridge won't hamper local businesses. It comes as Clare and Tipperary County Councils have decided to permanently pedestrianise the 18th century Killaloe-Ballina bridge. It follows what's been described as a successful trial period by the local authorities, which had been running for the last three months after the opening of the new €88m Brian Boru Bridge. Killaloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien says a targeted tourism strategy is needed.
Clare County Council insists algal bloom isn't a concern in East Clare and doesn't pose a threat to its tourism offering. The local authority has deemed Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon safe bathing areas once again after assessments showed no evidence of algal bloom at either location. It comes as planning permission has been granted by An Comisiún Pleanála for the upgrade and enhancement of facilities at Inis Cealtra and Mountshannon Village. Clare County Council Head of Tourism Deirdre O'Shea says the waterways are closely monitored for the presence of algae.
with Gda Cormac Fallon Scariff Garda station, Saturday Chronicle 4th October 2025 - as broadcast from the Killaloe Ballina Family Resource Centre, the Green, Killaloe, https://kbfrc.ie/ hosted by Tom Hanley and Patricia Anne Moore. Saturday Chronicle is kindly sponsored by James M Nash and Co and Derg Kitchen Design http://dergkitchendesign.ie. Saturday Chronicle is kindly sponsored by James M Nash and Co and Derg Kitchen Design http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com
An initiative aimed at enhancing the tourism offering of an East Clare town has received €1 million in government funding. The Killaloe-Ballina Twin-Town Tourism, Regeneration and Enhancement Project has been allocated the money under the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund. It's understood the project will include proposals outlined in the Killaloe-Ballina plan and will focus on key buildings, sites, laneways, streets, and town centre public realm enhancement and regeneration works. Killaloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the funding will pave the way for a number of much-needed improvements to come to fruition.
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 4th-5th October 2025 -12.30 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
Clare musicians are uniting for a musical performance inspired by the climate crisis in collaboration with a Nova Scotian artist. Cataclysm will take place in Kilkishen Cultural Centre on Friday the 10th October at 8pm. To find our more,Daragh Dolan was joined live in-studio by Maeve Donnelly, Seán Lyons and Eva McCauley.
On this week's Atlantic Tales Pat Flynn visits a busy family-run farm in the hills East Clare. We'll meet mum Mona and daughter Evi and hear about the ongoing process of handing Glendree Organic Farm from one generation to the next is underway.
- There are a number of East Clare teams involved in both the Premier and Intermediate Championships semi finals this weekend and the lads speak to representatives from all clubs involved including Ogonnelloe Manager Michael Sheedy, Whitegate Manager Niall Hayes, Smith O'Briens Manager Barry Hennessey and Robbie Madden member of O'Callaghans Mills selection committee. A look ahead to all the big games including the Senior hurling county final as well as a number of other sporting activities over the weekend with our regular panel. Pat and Leo talk to Sean O'Halloran, Danny Chaplin, and Kevin O'Regan. -01.14 Michael Sheedy -10.52 Barry Hennessey -25.09 Niall Hayes -34.40 Robbie Madden -43.50 SBCR Panel discuss and preview all the big games taking place this weekend. Originally to be broadcast 4th October 2025
Premier Intermediate Semi final, game played at Gurteen on 4th October 4pm Commentary from Leo Doyle and analysis from Pat McNamara. Commentary in conjunction with Clare GAA tv -00.00 introduction and teams -08.04 first half -39.31 half time analysis -43.22 second half -1.15.37 Full time analysis -1.18.24 Selector for O'Callaghans Mills Joe Cooney TD Outside Broadcast Transportation and Logistics in conjunction with Brian Boru Service Station Tuamgraney
A striking new sculpture of an eagle can be seen at Mountshannon Harbour. The sculpture, titled Caimin, the Eagle, was created by local blacksmith and metalworker Mark Wilson together with artist Lynn Kirkham. It commemorates Caimin, one of Ireland's oldest breeding white-tailed eagles, who died last May after almost two decades soaring above Lough Derg. The piece celebrates not only Caimin's legacy but also the wider success of the white-tailed eagle reintroduction project in East Clare. For more on this, Alan Morrissey had a chat with Mark Wilson, Local blacksmith and metalworker. Photo (c) Vera O'Rourke Photography
Stephanie Woollard who is from Australia, is the founder of The Celtic Way, a tour company that brings travelers from across the world to explore Ireland — not just through its sights, but through its soul. With strong family ties to Mayo and a growing love for East Clare, Stephanie is on a mission to reconnect people with their heritage in the most meaningful way possible. Alan Morrissey spoke with Stephanie on Tuesday's edition of Morning Focus.
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 27th-28th September 2025 -13.27 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
Concern has been expressed in East Clare over the growing presence of an algal bloom on the shores of Lough Derg. The pea-green scum like build up can cause skin and eye irritation, gastro-intestinal illness and nausea, and can be lethal for animals, especially dogs. The algae was first identified at Ballycuggeran and Mountshannon as these areas are regularly utilised for swimming, however it's understood prevailing winds have carried it up to parts of Meelick Bay. Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor Pat Burke has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan it's vital people stay away from the affected areas.
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 20TH-21ST September 2025 -14.05 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
The Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District insists attracting tourism accommodation providers to East Clare must be the next area of focus for the region. The €5.3m Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience, which consists of interactive exhibits, a café and an external seated terrace, was officially opened on Friday afternoon. Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley, who opened the attraction, has stated it will "help boost tourism and economic growth in Mountshannon" by "increasing footfall and driving visitor numbers". Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor Pat Burke doesn't believe this can happen without additional places for people to stay.
News from East Clare with Sgt Declan O'Keefe, Scariff Garda station. Originally broadcast as part of Saturday Chronicle 13th September 2025 live from the Farmers Market at Tulla Courthouse hosted by Daragh Leamy and Stephen Minogue. Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com
A new tourism centre in East Clare is expected to provide an economic boost to surrounding towns and villages. The Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience on the outskirts of Mountshannon has been officially opened by Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley today. The €4.3 million project includes an interactive visitor experience, outdoor seating in the restored Old Rectory gardens and public realm improvements to Mountshannon village. Minister Dooley has been telling Clare FM's Sean Lyons, that Mountshannon as well as other nearby settlements will enjoy increased tourist traffic for years to come thanks to the development.
Match reports from Round 5 of Intermediate championship in Clare concerning East Clare teams, Intermediate and Senior Hurling Relegation playoff as well as Round 3 of the Camogie . Jim Collins and Pat McNamara review the weekends action. -01.17. Feakle Killanena v Clarecastle Camogie report by Pat O'Brien -07.36 Smith O'Briens v Kilmaley Intermediate match report by Brendan Foley -13.16 Killanena v Tubber Premier intermediate, match report Ollie Noone -15.16 Bodyke v Ruan Premier Intermediate report by Sean O'Halloran. -20.28 O Callaghans Mills v Parteen Meelick intermediate report by Pat O'Brien. -24.36 Sixmilebridge v Broadford Premier Intermediate match report by Jack Treacy -29.35 Corofin v Scariff Senior Relegation play off match report Alphie Rodgers. Programme as broadcast live on SBCR on7th September 2025
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 13th-14th September 2025 -13.22 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
Ennis Municipal District admits works it carried out last year to address a speeding problem in a Clare village have resulted in "little improvement" in the problem. Fine Gael Councillor Paul Murphy has called for the introduction of traffic calming measures, the repair of VMS speed reading signs and a great Garda presence in Doora amid "persistent reports" of speeding in the area. Ennis MD says it installed line marking and rumble trips as well as a new footpath on the L4114 in the village last year but claims speed surveys taken before and after the works don't show a notable difference. Councillor Murphy says the village is used as a "rat run" from Ennis to East Clare.
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 6th-7th September 2025 -14.55 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
News and events from around East Clare for the weekend of the 30th-31st August -15.35 Weather forecast sponsored by Paddy Punch engineering Scariff, read by Jim Collins News sponsored by Boru Entertainment https://linktr.ee/boruentertainment
A road in East Clare said to be in an "absolutely deplorable state" and "nearly impassable" is to be closed for over a month to facilitate an infrastructural upgrade. Clare County Council has announced that a 24-hour road closure will be in place on the L70361 at Ardnataggle in O'Briensbridge from September 29th to November 7th to allow for the installation of a new watermain. Local access is to be maintained for the duration of the closure while traffic will be diverted via the R463 and L3070 at Ardnataggle. Local Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien says various short-term fixes to water supply issues over the years have left the road badly damaged.
Tuesday's Morning Focus broadcasted live from the Digital Hub in Sixmilebridge, as part of Clare FM's Summer Tour. Senior Executive Officer, Suzie Clifford and Senior Executive Engineer with the Shannon Municipal District, Tom Mellett joined us to discuss community engagement, economic development, and a number of active projects. Leas Cathaoirleach Michael Begley gave an insight into his day-to-day responsibilities, shared his hopes for the year ahead, and reflected on the importance of collaboration with MD staff. Executive Engineer,John Strand and Senior General Services Supervisor, Pat Kearney outlined the vital operations of the Shannon MD team and reflected on years of local progress in towns like Sixmilebridge. Sergeant Edel Burke from Kilrush Garda Station joined us for this week's Garda Focus. Later in the show, Mark Noonan of the Sixmilebridge Town Team spoke about the town's masterplan under the Town Centre First initiative.Rural and Community Development Officer, Conor Leyden highlighted his work with local groups to access key funding opportunities. Eilis O'Nuallain of Sixmilebridge Community Development Association celebrated their Tidy Towns achievements and sustainability efforts, while Colm Liddy brought history into focus with a powerful segment on the Sixmilebridge Massacre. We also heard from Angie Togher of the Sixmilebridge ICA Guild, who spoke about their 80-year legacy and plans to mark this milestone, and Eoin Harrington of the Sixmilebridge Historical Society detailed the group's projects and heritage trail. Gwen Bowen, solicitor and local business owner, reflected on 20 years of business in Sixmilebridge, its changing landscape, and offered advice to entrepreneurs starting out today. Local musician Fionn Hayes returned to the airwaves with a beautiful performance, while Clare's Dog Warden Frankie Coote provided an update on recent animal welfare issues, including a serious dog incident in East Clare.
On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by singer-songwriter Tanya O, who has just released a brand-new track and is about to set out on tour. Tanya will be performing in venues around the country, including a date in Tulla, East Clare, on 6 September 2025.
Residents in east Clare are being encouraged to share their knowledge on the location of invasive plant species, as part of efforts to improve biodiversity and water quality in the county. Invasive plant species are to be tackled under a new partnership agreement between Clare Local Development Company and Waters of LIFE over the coming three years. Waters of LIFE is active in the east of the county as an EU-funded programme to protect and restore water quality and it's hosting a public meeting focused on protecting east Clare's natural heritage in Flagmount next Wednesday from 7.30pm. Waters Of LIFE Communications and Stakeholder Relationship Manager, Ross O'Donoghue says local knowledge is the starting point in tackling the issue.
Thursday's Morning Focus broadcasted live from Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience in Mountshannon as part of Clare FM's Summer Tour. Alan Morrissey spoke with community leaders, local business owners, and residents about the village's cultural vibrancy, tourism potential, and ongoing environmental and development projects. To discuss digital infrastructure and public works in East Clare, Alan was joined by Jackie Dermody, Analyst Developer at DigiClare and Declan Flanagan, Senior Executive Engineer with Killaloe Municipal District. Tourism came under the spotlight in a discussion with Maurice Walsh, Vice Chair of the Clare Tourism Advisory Forum. Maurice shared his concerns about visitor numbers and the need for increased investment in the sector. Mountshannon Community Council's Paul Bugler and Inis Housing Association CEO Emer Watson discussed local housing and community development. Siobhán Mulcahy, County Arts Officer, spoke about creative spaces and upcoming arts events in the region, while Frank Bouchier and Danú O'Callaghan gave insight into the weekly Mountshannon Market. Alan also explored a new biodiversity initiative tackling invasive plant species in East Clare, with input from Ruth Bennett Coady, Catchment Ecologist, and Ross O'Donoghue from Waters of LIFE. The Mountshannon Arts Festival was featured in conversation with committee member Shulagh Colleran, celebrating the village's strong creative identity and growing festival attendance. The food and hospitality scene was well represented, with Brett Cox of That's My Brew, Clíona Coyne of The Berry Tree, and Laurence Martineau of The Snug discussing local flavours, sustainability, and community engagement through food and drink. Live music performances came from loclas; Alan McMahon, Hugo Zyderlaan, Froukje Powell, Peggy Boyle, Graham Roe, Roxanne Leonard and Rita Noeske, adding to the lively atmosphere on site. The programme concluded with another instalment of Clare Women in Business, as Pat Flynn visited Creegh to speak with Sarah Gould, owner of Riverside Hair & Beauty.
Now to a truly inspiring journey unfolding across Clare and beyond this week — it's the annual Step by Step Walk to Knock, raising funds and awareness for the incredible work of Mary's Meals. The walk began on August 7th and will continue right through to the 15th, with walkers making their way step by step across the country — passing through places like Clonlara, Killaloe, Feakle, and now heading toward Scarriff and Tuamgraney. To learn more about the walk, how to support it, and the impact of Mary's Meals Peter O'Connell was joined by walker and organiser Ger Silke. Photo Credit: Ger Sike
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.
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.
There's undoubtedly renewed frustration in East Clare as An Comisúin Pleanala has granted permission for a 7X 179 to 180m turbine windfarm at Lackareagh Beg near Broadford. EDF Renewables claims its project will power over 35,000 homes and has promised a €240,000 per year community benefit fund. Clare County Council had initially rejected the plans over visual amenity, wildlife and biodiversity concerns after receiving 80 objections in just two months, making the prospect of a judicial review seem likely. Alan Morrissey was speaking about this with Konrad Rumberger, who has previously raised concerns over wind farms in East Clare.
The South East Clare Show is making a comeback! The event will take place in Bridgetown on Sunday, 27th July. After last year's cancellation, this year will be the 32nd edition of the show. Aside from horse, cattle and dog shows, there will be entertainment for the children and lots more besides. To chat about the South East Clare Show, Alan Morrissey was joined by a member of the Organising Committee, Rosemarie Stewart. PHOTO CREDIT: South East Clare Show via Facebook
Three pubs in East Clare are currently up for sale. Reddan's Bar in Killaloe; Nuala's Bar and Restaurant, Tuamgraney; and Stritch's Pub, Clonlara are all trading and being sold as going concerns. To find out more about the reasons behind the impending sale of of Nuala's bar and restaurant in Tuamgraney, I am Alan Morrissey was joined by Nuala O'Brien, of Nuala's bar and restaurant, Tuamgraney. PHOTO CREDIT: Nualas.ie
The next generation of golfers hoping to follow in the footsteps of Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry have been put through their paces in East Clare this week. Bodyke has been the scene for the latest Junior Camp at East Clare Golf Club. The club is home to a Dr. Arthur Spring designed Championship parkland course, which is idyllically situated in the rolling East Clare landscape just a stone's throw from Lough Derg. On Monday and Tuesday this week, a host of young golfers have been levelling up their game, sharpening their swing, and having fun on the fairways! Alan Morrissey made the trip to East Clare Golf Club to chat with some of Clare's talented young golfers, as well as the club figures helping them to grow their game.
A landmark visitor attraction officially opens today in East Clare following a €4.3m refurbishment of a historic building. Described as the region's "most ambitious tourism project to date", the Old Rectory in Mountshannon, which has been standing since 1905 has been transformed to house the Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience. The centre offers panoramic views of Lough Derg, a first floor café, with a modern exhibition space showcasing stories about Holy Island and East Clare's heritage. Clare County Council Tourism Director Siobhán McNulty says it's an exciting new venture.
East Clare residents claim windfarm developments proposed for their area will destroy their lives. It comes as Clare County Council has requested updates to national wind energy guidelines that will aim to put defined limit on the height and scale of turbine developments. There are currently pending applications to build 104 turbines here, however the rules governing their size have not been updated since 2006. Niall Ward from the Meelick Windfarm Opposition Alliance whose living near the proposed twelve turbine Ballycar windfarm has been telling Clare FM the lack of regulation is extremely concerning.
There are fears for the future of small communities in East Clare. Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes is calling for a "targeted rural regeneration and population retention strategy" for East Clare. The population of the Killaloe Municipal District grew by 8.8% between the censuses in 2016 and 2022, giving the area the highest rate of growth in the county outside of Ennis. Councillor Hayes claims small villages are struggling and insists Clare County Council should take a proactive approach to building homes in these areas.
Mountshannon will be a hive of activity this bank holiday weekend for the Mountshannon Arts Festival. Thousands are expected to descend on the East Clare village for the annual event, which runs from this Thursday, the 29th of May, until Monday, the 2nd of June. Singer Mary Coughlan will perform, while there will be plenty of other musical performances, as well as theatre, children's entertainment, and much more besides. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Chairperson of Mountshannon Arts, Mel White. Photo(C): Mountshannon Arts facebook page
One third of vehicles passing through an East Clare village are travelling over the speed limit. On foot of a motion tabled by Fine Gael Councillor Conor Ryan at the latest Killaloe Municipal District Meeting, a traffic survey was conducted on the R466 in O'Callaghan's Mills from May 14th to May 19th. It's been found that of the 1,124 vehicles driving through the village each day, 33% were over the current default speed of 50 kilometres per hour, equating to roughly 370 vehicles. Councillor Ryan says traffic calming infrastructure is required as matter of urgency.
The Minister of Transport has hailed a new bridge in East Clare as "transformative" for the region. Fianna Fáil Minister Darragh O'Brien attended the unveiling of the long-awaited Brian Boru Bridge on Thursday afternoon. The €88 million project connects the twin towns of Killaloe and Ballina while also providing a new 6.2 kilometre Killaloe Bypass as well as regional road enhancements. Clare FM's Seán Lyons headed to the Clare/Tipperary border to cover the event where the Minister was subject to some early accusations.
The Minister for Transport will officially open a long-awaited bridge in East Clare in the coming week. Minister Darragh O'Brien is set to unveil the Brian Boru Bridge connecting Killaloe and Ballina next Thursday at 3pm. The major infrastructural project crosses the River Shannon one kilometre south of the existing Killaloe Bridge and will connect the Killaloe Bypass with the R494. Killaloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Tony O'Brien says it's a gamechanger.