Podcasts about Kilrush

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG) has confirmed that the Kilrush-based research vessel Celtic Mist will be retired at the end of the 2026 season. For more than a decade, the 17-metre yacht has played a vital role in surveying Ireland's inshore and offshore waters, contributing over 100,000 kilometres of marine research in support of whale and dolphin conservation. Alan Morrissey spoke with Mags Daly the Shannon Dolphin Project Officer to discuss what changes this might mean for the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group research. Image © Eoghan Quinn Via IWDG.ie

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn chats with Kilrush-based artist and designer Ailish Malone. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

Irish business confidence has fallen to its lowest level since the pandemic, according to a new Grant Thornton survey, with mid-market firms citing global volatility, rising labour and energy costs, and political uncertainty as major challenges for the year ahead. Here in Clare, businesses are feeling the impact, but they're also taking steps to remain competitive and invest in technology and productivity. To discuss how local businesses are navigating these challenges, Alan Morrissey was joined by Margaret O'Brien, CEO of Ennis Chamber, and Patrick Burke, representing businesses in Kilrush and Ennis. Photo (c) Pop Andreea's Images via Canva

A heart-warming new community initiative is bringing style, dignity, and independence directly to nursing home residents across the region. “Rocking the Rails” is a travelling retail experience designed to ensure elderly individuals can continue choosing their own clothing and personal items — empowering them to maintain independence, identity, and confidence. The initiative is led by Maggie Cronin, proud owner of The Family Store in Kilrush. A family-run department store established over 30 years ago. Alan Morrissey spoke to Maggie about "Rocking the Rails" and her family store on Clare FM's Morning Focus. Image (c) The Family Store Limited via Facebook

According to new figures from An Garda Síochána, Garda numbers in Clare are at their highest level in two years. 2025 saw a net increase of 10 gardaí in the county, bringing the total to 298 members stationed across Clare last December — an increase of 3.5% rise on the previous year. But while overall numbers are up, the picture varies locally. Ennis has seen a slight drop, with numbers falling from 114 to 110. In contrast, Shannon recorded a significant boost, rising from 58 to 71 members, and Crusheen also saw an increase. Meanwhile, Kilrush experienced a small decline. Nationally, 56 new officers joined the Roads Policing Unit last year — but just one of those has been assigned to Clare. The Chair of Clare's Local Community Safety Partnership Pj Ryan joined Sally-Ann Barrett in studio to discuss these new figures. Image (c) Clare Fm

Teresa Carrig joined us on Morning Focus last November. She was in studio to talk about her Christmas single, Here With Me. Teresa was back in-studio to highlight her new album! The Kilrush singer-songwriter is launcing her second album, called Dancing Solo, in the Galleon.

It's claimed the people of west and north Clare are suffering due to a lack of access to emergency ambulance care The local authority has called on the National Ambulance Service to provide additional rapid response vehicles to remote parts of the county. In a correspondence issued to Clare TD Joe Cooney this week, the HSE has confirmed that additional 12 hour ambulance shifts will be rolled out in Ennistymon and Kilrush, while new Emergency Medical Technicians are set to be recruited in Ennis. Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy says greater accessibility is key.

Access to local GP services remains a big concern in rural Clare, with recent challenges in Newmarket-on-Fergus and Kilrush highlighting the issue. Alan Morrissey was joined by Newmarket on Fergus Fianna Fail Councillor David Griffin and Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch. They'll discuss the impact on their communities, the HSE's response, and what more needs to be done to ensure people in rural areas can continue to access vital GP care. Image (C) anyaberkut from Getty Images Pro via Canva

Driving test waiting times have remained stagnant in Clare over the past four months. Budding motorists in this county can currently get a test within 11 weeks in Kilrush, 10 weeks in Ennis and 9 weeks in Shannon. It means two of Clare's three centres are now meeting the Road Safety Authority's service level agreement time of ten weeks. Chris Curran from the The Chris Curran Coaching Driving School in Ennis has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan it's crucial this progress is maintained.

It's claimed North and West Clare are being denied their fare share of funding for rural projects. Since 2020, the West Clare Municipal District, which encompasses both the Kilrush and Ennistymon Electoral Areas has received just below €12m in grants from the Department of Community and Rural Development. Concern has emerged however, that many key community initiatives are being overlooked such as public realm enhancements proposed for Corofin and Lisdoonvarna and works previously approved in Doolin. Lisdoonvarna Fine Gael Councillor Joe Garrihy says more progress is needed.

Two thirds of consumers think tipping has become less voluntary. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has issued guidance on the use of tipping machines in cafes, bars and restaurants, as research also shows a fifth of people have also paid an unexpected service charge. The guidance includes making sure payment terminals let customers easily avoid gratuity. The body says mandatory service charges need to be properly advertised and voluntary ones should never go on the bill automatically. On Thursday's edition of Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Andrew Flood, of An Beag Café in Kilrush and Robbie McCauley, of Homestead Cottage in Doolin. Photo (c) Africa Images via Canva

A planning application is expected to be submitted for the first section of the West Clare Railway Greenway this year. According to the Department of Transport, Clare County Council will seek permission to construct the Kilrush to Kilkee section of the route after June. The overall 115km route will also connect Ennis, Miltown Malbay, Lahinch and Ennistymon. Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that following many false dawns, progress is needed as soon as possible.

An investigation is set to be carried out into a reported rodent infestation in West Clare. It follows concerns raised by constituents over a persistent presence of vermin at Place De Plouzane in Kilrush. Although the green space has been identified as an area for development under the Kilrush Town Centre First Plan, it has been consistently blighted by illegal dumping and encampments in recent times. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch says this cannot continue.

On Thursday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey, we spoke with Dawn Bennett, owner of Cocolemon in Kilrush, who recently shared the difficult news that the much-loved local business will be closing its doors next month (10th of February) after six years at the heart of the community. Cocolemon has been a place of friendship, fun and familiar faces for so many in Kilrush and beyond, and this morning Dawn spoke about the journey, the memories, and what this goodbye means for her, her team and the town. Photo (c) Cocolemon, Kilrush

The Labour Court has now heard the case and adjourned to consider its ruling, following the breakdown of talks at the WRC and last year's strike action that affected thousands of schools nationwide. To discuss the latest developments in the long-running school secretary pensions dispute, Alan Morrissey was joined by Rena McGrath, Vice-Chairperson and Treasurer of the Fórsa School Secretaries Branch on the Clare/Galway border, and Bernie Dillon, Secretary at St Senan's Primary School in Kilrush. On Wednesday's Morning Focus they discussed what this latest step means for school secretaries and caretakers, and what happens next. Photo (c) Clare FM

A Kilrush-headquartered conservation group has expressed cautious optimism that the government will abide by an EU directive to provide a greater amount of protected marine habitats. It comes as Fair Seas, of which the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is a member, has appeared before the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Fisheries and Maritime Affairs to discuss delayed maritime protection laws. The Irish Government has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030 but at present, less than 10% are currently designated as protected. Marine Policy and Advocacy Officer with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Eva Lambert, says progression is urgently needed to prevent further sharp declines in marine life populations.

Clare Museum's Lecture Series present a talk by Bryn Coldrick and Tom Cassidy's ‘The Forgotten Defenders - Pillboxes of the Shannon Estuary.' It will take place at 7.30pm on Wednesday, January 14, 2026. This talk will present the findings of archaeological and built heritage investigations, historical research, and community engagement being carried out on World War Two-era pillboxes in the vicinity of the Shannon Estuary. On Friday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Bryn Coldrick, Senior Consultant with Archaeological Management Solutions based in Kilrush. Photo (c) Clare County Council

The steadfast support of locals is said to be responsible for a notable surge in Christmas spending in Kilrush. Traders across West Clare's capital have unanimously reported an upturn in fortunes this festive period. Nationwide, punters will spend over €3.9bn this December, as traders begin to wind down for Christmas Day. The average household spend is also expected to hit €1,600, which is a 14% rise on last year. Owner of Anchor Crafts in Kilrush Pauline Dunleavy says they're noticing a significant rise in business. One of the newest additions to the town is hailing the local support for the Christmas spending boost. Hannah O'Reilly, Owner of Clan Gift Store says the retail scene has been thriving this year. One longstanding trader in the town has pointed to variety and understanding local needs as factors helping to boost business this year. George Brew however from Brew's Hardware and Gifts believes the introduction of one hour parking would significantly improve economic activity in the town. One of Clare's longest serving retailers insists buying local will always be more beneficial to a customer than buying online. Seán Dunleavy who's been in retail over 50 years and is currently working in Patrick Bourke's Menswear says local people know what others want and more importantly what they dont.

Clare County Council is set to explore interventions to improve the national secondary road network. It comes amid persistent calls for upgrades to be carried out on the N68 connecting Ennis to Kilrush, and for the completion of the realignment project on the N85 which connects Ennis to Ennistymon. In a statement to Clare FM, the local authority has confirmed that the proposed works which include alterations to the N67 have all undergone various environmental and design assessments. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney says a major investment is needed.

Residents of a West Clare town are being offered financial incentives to stop smoking. The HSE Tobacco Free Ireland Programme has launched the Financial Incentives to Stop Smoking Programme pilot in Kilrush as well as in targeted areas of Limerick city. Through the scheme, eligible medical card holders over the age of 18 can earn up to €400 in gift vouchers across a 12-month period. Health Promotion and Improvement Officer in Health and Wellbeing at HSE Mid West, Niamh Keating, says smoking is a particular concern in Kilrush.

Dawn Bennett, a Kilrush-based hair salon proprietor, moved to the West of the county from Limerick several years to obtain a primary school place for her son Jamie, who is non-verbal and requires additional needs support in education. With Jamie set to start secondary school in the next two years, he faces the prospect of having to make the 43-kilometre journey to Ennis each day to attend the nearest secondary school that meets his requirements. Dawn, who says autistic children are ‘second class citizens', is urging parents in similar situations to voice their concerns to the National Council of Special Education. To discuss this further, Dawn joined Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus. Picture (c) Wokandapix from pixabay via Canva.com

Originally from Dublin, Mick Campbell is a former Air Traffic Controller based at Shannon, who now runs Irish Skies Pod, an aviation–related channel on YouTube. Irish Skies Pod was started by Mick, who funds and operates this one man show from his Kilrush base. Alan Morrissey was delighted to chat with Mick on Monday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Irish Skies Pod by Mick Campbell

Stephen Fletcher presents this Sunday's Beyond Belief and talks to Vatican Correspondent Colm Flynn about Pope Leo's papal visit to Turkey and Lebanon. Stephen also talks to local Kilrush solicitor Geariod Williams who was recently awarded a honour by Pope Leo for his work for the church and helping a charity supporting Christians in Jerusalem and the Holy Land. Fr Gerry Kenny joins Stephen in Kilrush for a chat over coffee and mince pies and also provides a reflection for the 2nd Sunday of Advent

The RNLI is launching its Christmas fundraising appeal, as its volunteer lifeboat crews selflessly prepare to spend their Christmas on call. On average, RNLI lifeboats launch over 100 times during the Christmas period* every year, with 119 launches in 2024. Whatever weather winter throws at them, RNLI crews including those at Kilrush are ready to leave their celebrations with friends and family to battle the elements and save lives at sea. For more on this, Charlie Glynn from Kilrush RNLI was on Friday's Morning Focus with Alan Morrissey. Photo (c) Kilrush RNLI

It's hoped the Kilrush Town Centre First Plan will vastly improve the town's offering for both locals and tourists alike. Two consultation sessions will take place in Kilrush Town Hall on Thursday December 4th, from 4pm to 5pm and 5:30pm to 6:30pm, while people can also voice their opinion through a poll on the Clare County Council website. A draft version of the plan will be available to view at Kilrush Library and Kilrush Town Hall until December 18th, aswell as at both sessions. Chairperson of Kilrush Town Team, Hilary Gleeson, says she's optimistic the plan will reinvigorate the area.

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

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

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

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

Last week, we heard the Christmas song being released by the Kilfenora Ceilí Band. Their festive tune, “A Boston Christmas”, certainly got us in the Christmas mood! Kilrush musician Teresa Carrig is also adding her voice to the festive season with the release of her brand-new Christmas single, Here With Me.

There has been a breakdown in discussions over pensions for school secretaries and caretakers. Last Thursday night saw the talks come to a halt at the Workplace Relations Commission. The aftermath saw Fórsa pointing the finger of blame at the Department of Education for failing to engage meaningfully on a range of proposals. Over 2 thousand secretaries and caretakers went on strike for eight days at the start of the school year. Forsa says further strike action cannot be ruled out. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Rena McGrath, Vice-Chairperson and Treasurer of Fórsa School Secretaries Branch on the Clare/Galway border and Bernie Dillon, Secretary at St Senan's Primary School in Kilrush. Photo (c) Riccardo Mojana via Canva

A verdict of unlawful killing has been returned at the inquest into the death of Emer O'Loughlin, the Clare woman who body was discovered in a burnt-out mobile home two decades ago. The remains of the Ennistymon native were found in a caravan on lands at Ballybornagh near Tubber on the 8th of April, 2005. The jury returned the verdict at the inquest at the Coroner's Court sitting in Kilrush on Wednesday. Alan Morrissey was joined live on Morning Focus by Emer's sister, Pam O'Loughlin. Picture (c) Justice For Emer O'Loughlin via Facebook

We spotted a comment left on Facebook recently, which caught our eye. The post was in relation to what, in the poster's view, was the high cancer rates in Ennistymon. The most recent figures from the CSO for 2021 revealed that the Ennistymon region had the highest rate of neoplasm-related deaths of any area in the country. Neoplasms are abnormal masses of tissue that can be cancerous, accounted for more deaths than any other factor countywide in that year, with the exception of Kilrush. To explore this further, Alan Morrissey was joined live on the line by Dr Michael Kelleher.

An event highlighting the decline of the Irish language in West Clare will be held later this week. Dr. Síle Ní Choincheannain from Mary Immaculate College will deliver the lecture at Bhí Gaeilge ag do Granny! From Irish to English: Language Decline in West Clare. It will be held at An Teach Ceoil, Kilrush this Thursday, November 6th at 8pm. Photo (c) Mary Immaculate College

Last week on Morning Focus, the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group spoke about them being chosen as National Finalists in this year's National Lottery Good Causes Awards. The Kilrush based group, Ireland's leading cetacean conservation charity dedicated to the protection, research, and welfare of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, were shortlisted in the Heritage category. The great news for the Group is that they ended up winning their category! Alan Morrissey was joined by Gemma O'Connor, coordinator of the IWDG Live Stranding Network on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Julia Iredale

The National Lottery has announced the 35 Good Cause beneficiaries that have been chosen as National Finalists in this year's National Lottery Good Causes Awards. The great news from a Clare perspective is that the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group is among the 2025 finalists. The Kilrush based group, Ireland's leading cetacean conservation charity dedicated to the protection, research, and welfare of whales, dolphins, and porpoises, has been shortlisted in the Heritage category. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Cian Ó Nialáin, the Education and Outreach Officer. Photo (c) Clare IWDG Facebook

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 26ú lá de mí Mheán Fómhair, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1975 chonaic saighdiúir beartán taobh amuigh de theach tábhairne agus shábháil sé a lán daoine mar go raibh buama taobh istigh den bheartán. I 1986 bhí stailc pleanáilte ag dochtúirí sóisearach agus dúradh go mbeadh sé chun dul ar aghaidh tar éis a theip na cainteanna sna cúirteanna. I 1975 tháinig sé amach go mbeadh Dunnes Stores chun a bheith san ionad siopadóireacht nua in Inis. I 2003 bhí an criú teilifís scanraithe nuair a bhí siad I gCill Rois nuair a stop dhá charr in aice leo, tháinig ocht bhfear as na carr ag caitheamh cochall agus dúirt siad go raibh siad chun urchar a scaoileadh mura raibh siad chun Cill Rois a fhágáil. Sin The Black Eyed Peas le Where Is The Love – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 2003. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 1987 chuaigh Whitney Houston chuig uimhir a haon I Meiriceá lena hamhrán Didn't We Almost Have It All agus d'fhan sí ann ar feadh dhá sheachtain. I 1995 tháinig AC/DC amach lena 12ú halbam darbh ainm Ballbreaker. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh Serena Williams I Meiriceá I 1981 agus rugadh aisteoir agus amhránaí Olivia Newton John sa Bhreatain ar an lá seo I 1948 agus seo chuid de amhrán. Beidh mé ar ais libh an tseachtain seo chugainn le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 26th of September, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1975: An alert soldier who spotted a parcel outside a pub door saved dozens of people as there was a bomb concealed inside. 1986: The scheduled strike by 1,845 junior hospital doctors is likely to take place following the collapse of labour court talks. 1975: it was reported that Dunne's Stores was coming to nthe new Ennis Shopping Centre. 2003: TV3 crew were frightened for their lives in Kilrush when 2 cars pulled up beside them, 8 men got out of the vehicle wearing hoods and said they'd shoot and burn them if they didn't leave kilrush. That was The Black Eyed Peas with Where Is The Love – the biggest song on this day in 2003 Onto music news on this day In 1987 Whitney Houston started a two week run at No.1 on the US singles chart with 'Didn't We Almost Have It All'. 1995 AC/DC released Ballbreaker their 12th international studio album. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – Serena Williams was born in America in 1981 and actress and singer Olivia Newton John was born in the UK on this day in 1948 and this is one of her songs. I'll be back with you next week with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

As part of Mental Health Week 2025, the West Clare Mental Health Association is proud to present an important and timely information talk by Dr. Mary O'Kane, No. 1 best-selling author of Anxious Children in an Anxious World. This event, titled Supporting Anxious Children and Teenagers, is designed to offer valuable insights and practical advice to parents and guardians navigating the challenges of raising children through uncertain and stressful times. Dr Mary O'Kane, lecturer in psychology, parenting and early childhood education and Mary O'Donoghue, Coordinator of the West Clare Family Resource Centre spoke with Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Books Ireland

Fáilte ar ais chuig eagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo ar an 11ú lá de mí Mheán Fómhair, liomsa Lauren Ní Loingsigh. I 1972 bhí teannas ann idir na Gardaí agus an R.U.C. Ar an teorainn agus de bharr sin cheap siad nach mbeadh drong a fhuadaigh muc, sáinnithe. I 1999 tháinig sé amach go raibh feirmeoirí sa tír chun 1.7 billiúin punt a fháil faoi phlean nua don EU. I 1988 fuair Urramach Thomas Crotty ó gCill Rois bás. I 1999 bhí géarchéim ann sa chontae le seirbhísí sláinte phoiblí mar go raibh cúpla fadhb a raibh neamhréitithe agus bhí tionchar ar altraí agus othair sa chontae. Sin The Vengaboys le We're Going To Ibiza – an t-amhrán is mó ar an lá seo I 1999. Ag lean ar aghaidh le nuacht cheoil ar an lá seo I 1977 taifead David Bowie le Bing Crosby Merrie Olde Christmas lena hamhrán Peace On Earth – Little Drummer Boy. Chuaigh sé chuig uimhir a trí sa Bhreatain I 1982. I 1996 shiúil Noel Gallagher as Oasis leath slí tríd turas ceoil I Meiriceá tar éis a bhí troid aige lena deartháir Liam in óstán I North Carolina. Agus ar deireadh breithlá daoine cáiliúla ar an lá seo rugadh aisteoir Scott Patterson I Meiriceá I 1958 agus rugadh rapálaí Ludacris I Meiriceá ar an lá seo I 1977 agus seo chuid de amhrán. Beidh mé ar ais libh amárach le heagrán nua de Ar An Lá Seo. Welcome back to another edition of Ar An Lá Seo on the 11th of September, with me Lauren Ní Loingsigh 1972: Strained relations between Gardaí and R.U.C in the border areas could mean that the pig smuggling gang which kidnaped a Dublin-born customs officer may not be caught. 1999: Irish farmers are set to get £1.7bn under the EU's Rural Development Plan. 1988: Well known Kilrush born Rev. Thomas Crotty passed away 1999: Public health services in Clare are facing a major crisis on 2 separate fronts as a number of unresolved problems which are affecting the county's nurses and patients. That was The Vengaboys with We're Going To Ibiza – the biggest song on this day in 1999 Onto music news on this day In 1977 David Bowie recorded a guest appearance on 'Bing Crosby's 'Merrie Olde Christmas' TV show duetting with Crosby on 'Peace On Earth - Little Drummer Boy. The track became a UK No.3 hit five years later in 1982. 1996 Noel Gallagher walked out on the rest of Oasis half way through an American tour after a fight with his brother Liam in a hotel in Charlotte North Carolina. And finally celebrity birthdays on this day – actor Scott Patterson was born in America in 1958 and rapper Ludacris was born in America on this day in 1977 and this is one of his songs. I'll be back with you tomorrow with another edition of Ar An Lá Seo.

Schools across the country will today try and tackle the backlog of work that built up as a result of the strike action by school secretaries and caretakers that lasted for over a week. The striking workers had been picketing schools, demanding access to public sector pensions and other entitlements. The Minister for Education Helen McEntee welcomed Forsa's agreement to suspend strike action last Friday night, to allow for talks at the Workplace relations commission. The Union representing school secretaries and caretakers says the key element of the agreement is a Government commitment to negotiate comparable pension entitlements for their members. Alan Morrissey was joined by Rena McGrath, Vice-Chair of Fórsa School Secretaries Branch on the Clare/Galway border and Bernie Dillon, who's been Secretary at St Senan's Primary School in Kilrush for over twenty years.

This September, North Clare woman Helga Himmelsbach will walk and cycle 120 kilometres—from Kilrush to Kinvara—in memory of her late husband, Jerry O'Connor. Jerry was tragically killed in 2023 on the N67 near Ballyvaughan, struck by a car driven on the wrong side of the road by a tourist. Since that devastating day, Helga has become a passionate advocate for road safety across North Clare. Her journey begins on September 7th, not just to honour Jerry's life, but to shine a light on the dangers facing road users in Clare. Today, she joins us to share her story, her campaign, and the message she hopes will reach every driver on our roads." To find out more, Sally-Ann Barrett was joined by Helga Hillmelsbach, North Clare road safety campaigner.

School secretaries and caretakers in Clare have pledged to remain on strike until the Government meets their demands. Pickets have taken place at the office of the county's Government TDs this morning as those engaging in industrial action continue their pursuit of public service pensions and other entitlements for a fourth day. Having chosen the school gates as the location for their demonstrations since last Thursday, secretaries and caretakers in Clare opted for a different approach this morning. Equipped with placards displaying slogans such as "fair pensions for all school staff" and "pension parity", strikers have taken their grievances directly to the gates of power today by picketing the offices of Clare's Government TDs. After being granted access to Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney's office in the Market in Ennis, the secretaries and caretakers present made the Bodyke TD aware of their plight. Secretary at St Senan's National School in Kilrush, Bernie Dillon, says they've been made to feel like "paupers" and that they won't relent until a resolution is found. The key asks of secretaries and caretakers are inclusion in the public service pension scheme, access to sick leave and access to bereavement leave - entitlements enjoyed by other school workers like teachers and SNAs. They're also asking to be paid by the Department of Education rather than by their schools' board of management. Tim Daly, who's the caretaker of the Holy Family National School in Ennis, insists it's an indefinite strike. Deputy Cooney claims he spoke to the Minister for Education Helen McEntee about the issue this morning and that he will continue to engage with her until progress is made. He admits work could've got underway during the summer. Fórsa, which is the trade union that represent school secretaries and caretakers, says "there is no WRC process, no talks, and no effort on the Government side to resolve the situation" at present. It says its members won't come off strike until negotiations resume. Clarecastle Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom O'Callaghan believes the industrial action must continue if parity is to be achieved.

A West Clare councillor is calling on the Junior Transport Minister to take the time to observe the condition of the county's roads network during his trip here today. Seán Canney will visit Shannon Airport this afternoon to launch the Irish Coast Guard's Aviation Service at the Midwest base. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor, Rita McInerney, says urgent investment in the county's roads network is required, particularly on the N68 between Ennis and Kilrush. She says the route can serve a huge strategic role going forward, if given the correct level of funding.

It's hoped the planning process for the first stage of the West Clare Greenway will get underway next year. 1.3 million euro in funding was granted by Transport Infrastructure Ireland earlier this year towards progressing the Kilkee to Kilrush section, as well as stage two of the greenway from Ennis to Ennistymon. Clare County Council says the design of the Kilkee to Kilrush route is being finalised and landowner agreements are currently ongoing. Senior Executive Officer and West Clare Municipal District Co-ordinator/Manager, John O'Malley says once completed it will be of huge value to the area.

Marine life enthusiasts are being encouraged to head to Clare's coast to see a unique spectacle this week. There have been a number of sightings of basking sharks breaching, or breaking the surface of the water, off Loop Head in recent days. Basking sharks, which are the second-largest sharks or fish in the world, populate much of Ireland's waters during the spring and summer but usually only breach during particularly warm spells. Chief Executive Officer of the Kilrush-based Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Simon Berrow says it's a great opportunity to see these remarkable creatures.

A local electoral area in Clare is among 15 nationwide which had more deaths than births in 2022. A new analysis of data by the Central Statistics Office shows the Kilrush local electoral area experienced the fifth-largest natural decrease rate in the country in the year in question. The Kilrush LEA recorded 190 births and 213 deaths in 2022, giving it a natural decrease of 23, translating to a natural decrease rate per 1,000 of population of -1. This makes the area one of just 15 in Ireland where there were more deaths than births in 2022. The Ennistymon LEA's natural increase was close to neutral, with 176 births and 173 deaths occurring, resulting in a natural increase rate of 0.2. The Ennis, Shannon and Killaloe areas all recorded natural increases with Ennis having the highest at 3.5. The findings are in contrast to those of 2021 when each of the five LEAs in Clare experienced natural increases.

Blood donors are being urgently sought in West Clare to keep regional hospitals supplied this week. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service is holding clinics both tonight and tomorrow Wednesday from 10 to 5 until 10 past 8 at Kilrush Community School. 65% of donations are generally used to treat cancer patients, with 30% going to routine and emergency operations and roughly 5% to births. Broadford based IBTS Donor Recruitment Executive Alex O'Connor says every donation makes a critical difference.

A heart-warming community effort in Kilrush last Sunday saw locals come together for a Coffee & Dip Fundraiser in support of Milford Hospice and the result was nothing short of incredible, raising an amazing €35,000. To tell us more about the day, Derrick Lynch was joined by Imelda Bourke, the organiser behind the event.

On the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #702 . Subscribe now! Nathan Gourley, The Friel Sisters, The Langer's Ball, Austral, Hounds of Finn, Juha Rossi, Charlie O'Brien, Kilrush, Blackwillow Starling, Wicked Tinkers, Celtic Conundrum, Carbon Leaf, CaliCeltic, Jiggy, Katie Jane Band 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 for 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 0:06 - Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall "Gleanntán Frolics / The Ceanngulla / The Hare in the Corn" from Copley Street 2 3:46 - WELCOME 5:52 - The Friel Sisters "Born for Sport/The Fairy Jig/Kissing & Drinking (Jigs)" from Northern Sky 9:40 - The Langer's Ball "I'm a Man You Don't Meet Every Day" from Drinking Song Sing - A - Long 12:15 - Austral "Bok Choy" from Thylacine 16:46 - Hounds of Finn "Wild Mountain Thyme" from Gravity Pulls 20:25 - FEEDBACK 24:44 - Juha Rossi "Carolan's Draught" from O'Carolan Tunes on Mandolin 27:38 - Charlie O'Brien "Hibernia" from The Trackless Wild, Irish Song of the Pampa 32:37 - Kilrush "Toss the Jam" from Kilrush 36:50 - Blackwillow Starling "All Around My Hat" from Blackwillow Starling 40:57 - THANKS 43:02 - Wicked Tinkers "The Dean Set" from Rant 46:25 - Celtic Conundrum "Ballad of Ellen Berkery” from Lore 50:46 - Carbon Leaf "7 Brides For 7 Sinners" from 5 Alive! 53:33 - CaliCeltic "Aoife and Her Reefer" from Paddy Paradise 57:39 - Jiggy "Púca (Shadow Step Mix)" from Single 1:04:40 - CLOSING 1:05:38 - Katie Jane Band "Twa Corbies" from Wild One 1:09:18 - 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—moves us toward a more stable climate. If you're skeptical, ask yourself: What if you're wrong? What if taking action means cleaner air, a stronger economy, and a safer world—no matter what? Isn't that worth considering? 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 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 THANK YOU PATRONS OF THE PODCAST! You Make the Music Happen! I'm in awe of your generosity. You're the heartbeat of this podcast—the reason I bring you fresh Celtic tunes every week. Your kindness fuels everything. It covers our brilliant engineer, our talented designer, and the Celtic Music Magazineeditor. It spreads this music far and wide. It even lets me buy the music you love and gives me the time to craft each episode just for you. And as a patron, you're more than a supporter—you're part of the music! You get exclusive, ad - free episodes, music - only episodes, free downloads, and the power to shape the Celtic Top 20. All this for as little as $4 a month—less than a cup of coffee, yet enough to keep the music alive and thriving. Join us today. Let's make this music last forever. A special thanks to our new and continued Patrons of the Podcast: Christopher Fennell, Paul Gorily, AlexanderJohn Murray, Peggy Dirks HERE IS YOUR THREE STEP PLAN TO SUPPORT THE PODCAST Go to our Patreon page. Decide how much you want to pledge every month. Keep listening to the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast to celebrate Celtic culture through music. You can become a generous Patron of the Podcast on Patreon at SongHenge.com. TRAVEL WITH CELTIC INVASION VACATIONS Every year, I take a small group of Celtic music fans on the relaxing adventure of a lifetime. We don't see everything. Instead, we stay in one area. We get to know the region through its culture, history, and legends. You can join us with an auditory and visual adventure through podcasts and videos. In 2026, we're traveling to the Celtic nation of Galicia in Spain. We'll dive deep into the history and legends of the Galician Celts, uncovering their connections to Ireland, Scotland, and beyond. We'll walk the same lands where Celtic warriors once roamed, hear the myths passed down through generations, and experience the magic of authentic Galician Celtic music, alive with passion and history. This isn't just a trip—it's a journey into the heart of a Celtic culture unlike any other. Will you join us? Learn more about the invasion at http://celticinvasion.com/ #celticmusic #irishmusic #celticmusicpodcast I WANT YOUR FEEDBACK What are you doing today while listening to the podcast? Is there a new Celtic CD or Celtic band that you heard of or saw? I'd love to see a  picture of what you're doing while listening. Email me at follow@bestcelticmusic. Xavier emailed: “Hi ! Thank you for your podcast. I discovered Celtic music in the 1990s in France with a french band that has since disappeared, Tonynara. I could be wrong but I don't think I've ever heard it on your podcast. This group remains a reference for me and I can only advise you to play one or two songs at the next opportunity. Thanks !” Caleb Cotter sent a photo: "Hi Marc, I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for featuring the Irish Lassies' music this year. You've introduced me to so many incredible artists, and I truly appreciate that! I've also been really enjoying your Dancing with Hobbits album—it's fantastic! You definitely nailed it with that project, and you should be incredibly proud of it. You've always encouraged us to send over recommendations, so I wanted to share one with you: My friend's band, The Mad Ferret from Edinburgh, UK. They're amazing, and I think you'd really enjoy their music. Here's one of my favorite tracks that I think you'll love. Also, the Lassies would like to send you something in the mail as a thank you. Could you please share an address where we can send it? Wishing you a wonderful New Year and thank you again for everything you do for the Celtic music community!” Patrick Rieger emailed photos: "Hi Marc, Some more celtic musicians from the family's renaissance festival season, this time the Pittsburgh Renaissance Festival. Pittsburgh is a small faire, but the musicians are still great. We could only spend one day there, so we didn't see them all. We did get to see The Reelin' Rogues, The Craic Show, Sarah the Harpist (Sarah Marie Mullen), and just as we were leaving at the end of the day, Magnus and Maggie. Despite the musicians and us seeing each other one or two times a year, we still get to be friends. Big smiles. Daniel from the Craic Show wanting to clink glasses at the Pirates Pub. Sarah and my wife Gayle got into a conversation about environmental issues.”  

Happy St Patrick's Day! We got carried with our 3 hour special. Instead you get 50 Celtic songs and tunes for you to enjoy for St Patrick's Day on the Irish & Celtic Music Podcast #701. Subscribe now! 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 for 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 0:15 - The Friel Sisters "My Love is in America/The Yellow Tinker/Old Cuffe Street (Reels)" from Northern Sky 3:35 - WELCOME THE IRISH & CELTIC MUSIC PODCAST * Helping you celebrate Celtic culture through music. I am Marc Gunn. I'm a Celtic musician and 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. If you are a Celtic musician and want your music featured on the show, please submit your band to be played on the podcast. You don't have to send in music or an EPK, and You will get a free eBook called Celtic Musicians Guide to Digital Music. It's 100% free. Just email follow@bestcelticmusic 5:32 - Nathan Gourley, Joey Abarta, and Owen Marshall "A Tailor I Am / The Shoemaker's Fancy / Donncha Ó Loinsigh's" from Copley Street 2 9:36 - Fialla "Dúlamán" from A Rare Thing 13:41 - W. Ed Harris "Arran Boat Song" from Family, Friends, Choices, & Memories 17:50 - Goitse "Green Fields of Canada" from Rosc 22:39 - Clay Babies "Dick Gossips / Dinky's Reel / Miss McLoud's" from Speechless Vol. 1: Sloppy Session in the Sticks 27:11 - The Irish Rovers "Drunken Sailor" from Drunken Sailor 30:04 - WHAT ARE YOU DOING FOR ST PATRICK'S DAY THIS YEAR? Ellen MacIsaac: Probably gigging. Lots of work for musicians at that time. Patrick Rieger: That's a Monday. I'll listen to some music at home. My favorite pub will be a madhouse so I will be avoiding the place. Jordan Reeder: Guinness and the Irish and Celtic music podcast for sure!