Podcasts about Kilrush

If you're looking for something to do this weekend, the beautiful surroundings of the Vandeleur Walled Garden and Visitor Centre in Kilrush will be hosting Land, Sea & Soul, an exhibition showcasing the work of three talented local artists.  Running from Friday to Sunday (17th – 19th July), the exhibition brings together the unique styles of West Clare artists Ailish Malone and Hazel Murray, along with Kilrush-based artist Delaney Davis.  Through landscapes, seascapes and contemporary works, each artist offers their own interpretation of the places and people that inspire them.   Alan Morrissey was delighted to be joined by two artists now; Ailish Malone and Delaney Davis. Image (c) Vandeleur Walled Gardens

A student from Kilrush is preparing to represent Ireland on the world stage after winning one of the country's top Chinese language competitions.   Martha Leone, a second-year Electrical Engineering student at the Technological University of the Shannon, claimed first place in the university category of the prestigious Chinese Bridge competition and will travel to China this August for the World Chinese Language Championships.   It's not her first taste of international success either, having finished third in the world in the competition last year.   Martha joined Alan Morrissey to talk about her remarkable achievement, her passion for Mandarin and Chinese culture, and what's ahead at this year's World Championships.  Photo (c) Technological University of the Shannon

Last April marked a milestone in Irish genealogy with the long-awaited public release of the 1926 Irish Census—the first new census records to become available in 65 years.   To celebrate this historic moment and help people discover more about their Irish roots, the Kilrush and District Historical Society is hosting the Kilrush Genealogy Conference 2026: From the Great Famine to the 1926 Census, taking place from the 9th to the 11th of October in West Clare.   Joining Alan Morrissey was one of the conference organisers, Mary-Alice Wildasin, to tell us more about what's planned and why this is such an exciting time for anyone interested in family history. Image (c) Kilrush Genealogy Conference 2026 via Discover Ireland

There's confusion over the number of new ambulances coming to Clare. At a meeting of Midwest Oireachtas members in March of this year, the National Ambulance Service stated five ambulances and 27 highly-trained staff would be coming to the county. Speaking in the Seanad however, Minister of State Frank Feighan now says three new vehicles will be added to the region, with these to be located in Ennistymon, Kilrush and Nenagh. Responding to Ennistymon Senator Martin Conway, the Fine Gael Minister of State hasn't clarified if this is in addition to the previously-announced allocation.

Morning Focus was broadcasting live from Kilrush Town Square for the second leg of Alan Morrissey's Summer Tour. Firstly, Alan spoke to Aisling Leahy, Senior Executive Planner and Urban Designer, Town Centre First Team, Clare County Council, and Charlie Glynn, Co-Chair of Kilrush Town Team, about the transformation underway in Kilrush to revamp the town. Deirdre Culligan, Friends of Ennis Hospital Spokesperson, relayed to Alan the crowded scenes of UHL, and explained how the trolley crisis is "far from over". John O'Malley, Senior Executive Officer of Kilrush MD, and Podge Murphy, community warden, praised Kilrush's community spirit, and told Alan about all the initiatives currently underway in the town. Alan leant about the amazing rural regeneration projects that are brining life back to West Clare from Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer, and Joe Linnane, Senior General Services Supervisor Fiona Hartigan, Clare Family Carer Support Manager, took Alan through Family Carer Ireland's pre-budget submission, and called for more respite for carers. Sharon Malone, Assistant Sales and Marketing Manager with Clare Tourism Development DAC, and Karoly Torok, Head Gardener at Vandeleur Walled Garden, spoke to Alan about the gorgeous natural sights in Kilrush and the wider West Clare area. Hugh McDonnell and Mike Carey discussed Zimmer Biomet's latest fundraising challenges, a football blitz and a 60km row across Lough Derg, in aid of Bumbleance. Our Friday Panel (Paul Moroney and Patricia McCarthy) discussed bad driver behaviour, the balance needed for renewable energy sites, the latest in the US and Iran conflict, and the greatest performances they have ever seen. Finally, to take us into the weekend, Therese McInerney brought us the latest from the Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy. Image (c) Clare FM

Funding of up to €13m will be sought for the redevelopment of the Mars Cinema in Kilrush. It comes as the Kilrush Town Team has confirmed its intention to apply to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage for the allocation. Clare County Council meanwhile has signalled its intention to commence a Part X planning application for the Kilkee to Kilrush section of the West Clare Greenway. Senior Executive Planner Aisling Leahy says it will be a gamechanger for the region.

Bed nights are set to be doubled at a Clare children's respite centre. As part of a €25m investment in respite services nationwide, the Hazeldine facility in Barefield will have capacity to provide 1,400 bed nights by the end of this year. Additionally, there will also be enhancements to services operated by Corlann in Miltown Malbay, Shannon and Kilrush. Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney wants to see further investment in outreach services as well.

It's being argued that the West Clare Railway Greenway could be "bigger than Moneypoint" in terms of its economic impact. Clare County Council has confirmed its submitting the first section of the long-awaited project to An Coimisiún Pleánala for development consent. The local authority has also commenced steps to acquire lands for the Kilrush to Kilkee stretch. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch believes the knock-on effect of the greenway can't be understated.

It's one of the highlights of the summer calendar in West Clare, bringing together the very best of farming, horses, local crafts and family entertainment.  The West Clare Horse Show returns to Kilrush this Saturday, the 4th of July, with a packed programme featuring show jumping, cattle classes, Connemara ponies, a dog show, vintage displays, food, music and plenty of activities for all ages.  Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to tell us what's in store was Nicki Johnson, the show organiser. Image (c) West Clare Horse Show via Facebook

Gardaí are investigating an incident after a Clare U-15 football game in Kilrush last night in which a referee was allegedly assaulted.Video footage in circulation online shows referee John O'Connell on the ground after an U-15 football game between Kilrush-Killimer and Lisseycasey…With more and more incidents occurring across the country, is the abuse referees are receiving becoming worse?Joining Shane to discuss is Rory Hickey, Referee Administrator for Clare and Jamesie O'Connor, former All Ireland winner with Clare.

Gardaí are investigating an incident at a Clare U-15 football game in Kilrush on Monday night in which a referee was allegedly assaulted…Footage released of the incident shows a referee being picked up off the ground. As the incident occurred at an underage game - what precedent does this set for our young players, and how does this impact sportsmanship both on and off the pitch?Do we need to treat referees with more respect, whether we agree with their decisions or not?Joining Andrea to discuss is Chairperson of Clare GAA, Kieran Keating, Chairman of Underage Clubs in Galway and referee Michael Ryder, Linda Gorman, former Ireland player, coach, & Ireland's first Female International Soccer Manager and more.

The RNLI is urging Clare people heading to waterways for this week's hot spell to observe extreme caution to prevent the risk of drownings. Crowds have been flocking to this county's coastal areas since the early hours of this morning, as temperatures are expected to exceed 28 degrees. 80 people lost their lives in drowning incidents nationwide last year and authorities are today urging members of the public to swim within their depth at lifeguarded locations to reduce incidents. Those heading to bathing spots for the fine weather are also being urged not to consume alcohol prior to entering the water, always have a means of communication available, to never leave children unsupervised and to seek local knowledge about the area when going for a swim in a new location. Kilrush RNLI Helmsman and PRO Charlie Glynn says that if you see a friend in difficulty in the water, throw them a floatation device and talk to them to keep them calm, but to avoid going in after them, as it can lead to further casualties. Among the locations, thronged with crowds today is Cappagh Pier in Kilrush. During the Pandemic, Imelda Bourke and Hilary O'Donovan co-founded the 'Mermaids & Buoys' group and have been going for daily social swims since. Imelda says there's nothing better in the fine weather. Temperatures are expected to exceed 28 degrees in parts of the county today, while a yellow weather warning for high temperatures remains in effect until Friday morning. These women at Cappagh Pier have been telling there favourite thing to do when the sun comes out.

Alan Morrissey was joined earlier by Chris Dixon O'Mara, author of a new book celebrating the remarkable success of Kilrush Shamrocks GAA Club during the 1970s.  The book revisits the club's golden era when Kilrush Shamrocks achieved an unprecedented five senior football championship titles in a row—a feat that has never been matched before or since.   Chris joined Alan in-studio to discuss the inspiration behind the publication and the upcoming launch. Photo (c) Clare FM

It's claimed as little as six regular Gardaí were policing the entire county of Clare on one day during the last weekend in May. It comes as elected representatives have once again raised concerns over stretched garda resources locally. The latest meeting of Clare County Council heard that on the day in question, just one Garda Car was policing the Western seaboard from Kilrush to Kinvara. Ennistymon Fianna Fáil Councillor Shane Talty expressed his concern.

The Summer Festival at Vandeleur Walled Garden is set to return to Kilrush from June 26th to 28th, promising three days of music, comedy, family entertainment and community celebration in one of Clare's most beautiful settings. This year's line-up features internationally acclaimed singer Brian Kennedy, the legendary Kilfenora Céilí Band, comedian Bernard Casey and a host of local favourites. To tell us more about what's in store, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sharon Malone, Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager with Clare Tourism Development DAC, and festival headliner Brian Kennedy. Image (c) Vandeleur Walled Garden via Facebook

Volunteers are being sought for a popular meals on wheels service expanding into North Clare. Obair has announced that its Inagh route is being extended into Ennistymon in response to demand. Established in Newmarket-on-Fergus over 20 years ago, the Obair Meals on Wheels service also has bases in Kilrush and Lisdoonvarna, and is planning to move into East Clare this summer. Service Coordinator with Obair, Eimear Murphy, says the more volunteers they have on their roster, the better the service can function.

A free workshop taking place in Kilrush this week (Thursday, 11th June, 7pm) aims to encourage greater understanding of gender identity, sexual orientation and inclusion within our communities. Hosted by GOSHH, the session will provide an accessible introduction to LGBTI+ identities, explore the importance of inclusive language and pronouns, and offer practical advice on how people can be supportive allies. The workshop is open to everyone, from young people and families to community groups and anyone interested in learning more. To tell us about the event and the work of GOSHH, Alan Morrissey was joined by Outreach Worker Bernie O'Gorman. Image (c) GOSHH

As thousands of students across Clare settle into the Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate exam season, Clare Youth Service is once again opening its Exam Cafés across the county to provide young people with a place to relax, recharge and take a break between exams. The cafés, which are running in Ennis, Killaloe, Kilrush, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus, offer a safe and welcoming space where students can unwind, meet friends and access support during what can be a stressful few weeks. To tell us more about the initiative and the importance of supporting young people's wellbeing during exam time, Alan Morrissey was joined by Helena Slattery, Youth Worker with Clare Youth Service and coordinator of The Junction Café in Ennis. Photo (c) Clare Youth Service

Sports infrastructure projects across Clare have received a major boost following significant local authority investment. Clare County Council has allocated €120,000 to permanent sports facilities throughout the county under the Participation Nation Outdoor Fund. Funding secured by the Clare Local Sports Partnership will see Scarriff, Ballyvaughan, Tim Smythe Park in Ennis, and Kilrush, each receive €25,250, while €19,000 has been invested in sports grounds in Shannon. Senior Executive Officer for Killaloe Municipal District and Sport and Recreation, Eoin Troy, says the council continues to pursue funding opportunities to further enhance facilities in towns across the county.

Kilrush RNLI is warning people across Clare about the risk of cold water shock this bank holiday weekend. Ahead of the June Bank Holiday weekend, the Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and the RNLI are urging the public to stay safe if planning an activity on or near the water.  While air temperatures are warmer, sea and inland water temperatures remain low and pose a serious risk of cold-water shock and hypothermia. Kilrush RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Charlie Glynn, has this advice for those entering the water this weekend.

There are calls for a bus shelter to be erected on a busy West Clare street. It follows concerns raised over public transport users being exposed to the elements in Kilrush. There's currently a bus parking bay on Frances Street, while other bus routes stop on the Ennis Road and in the Market Square, where no shelter is provided. June Dillon says the infrastructure is urgently needed.

It's hoped the impending installation of CCTV in West Clare's capital will significantly eradicate illegal dumping. Clare County Council is carrying out a public consultation process until June 1st to determine where the cameras should go in Tulla and Kilrush. So far this year, the local authority has already dealt with over 210 illegal dumping and litter complaints. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that swift and decisive action is needed.

Over 1,400 years ago, Clare's Saint Senan is said to have permanently banished the dragons and serpents from Kilrush, on the ancient monastic settlement of Inis Cathaigh. Located on the Shannon Estuary, Scattery Island which was inhabited until 1978, survived Vikings, Normans and rebellions and saw a population boom after the famine, officially reopened for the tourist season last week. Last year, just below 4,500 people set foot on the historic island, complete with 6 churches, one of only two round towers in Ireland with ground entry, graveyards, a lighthouse, a gun battery from the Napeleonic Era and an array of thriving wildlife. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan was among the latest to visit Scattery Island for the new season and spoke to Head OPW Guide John Mulqueen.

People across the county are being encouraged to have their say on the proposal to install CCTV in an attempt to curb illegal dumping. The Local Authority's waste enforcement team is carrying out a public consultation until June 1st on the use of cameras in blackspots in Tulla and Kilrush. The system would initially be in place for eight weeks before a review period would determine it's continued use. Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor, Pat Hayes, says it's been a 'torturous process' to get the relevant legislation enacted.

Homeowners living along the main road from Kilrush to Kilkee on the N67 at Leadmore East are seeking urgent action before any further loss of life or serious collisions occur on their road. Some residents have been seeking footpaths from the area to Kilrush town for over 50 years, however they've been consistently told by authorities that the project is either too expensive and could cost up to €250,000 or too complicated due to land acquisition and design issues. In recent years, there have been four fatal incidents on the stretch, while collisions are a regular occurrence due to what locals say is excessive speeding, heavy traffic and dips in the road causing visual obstructions. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan visited Leadmore where several residents expressed their lived experience beginning with Dr Anne Marie Carr.

People will have a unique opportunity to view whale and dolphin activity off the coast of Clare this weekend. Whale Watch Ireland takes place between 5 and 7pm on Saturday evening as part of a nationwide effort to monitor and celebrate marine life. Now in its 24th year, the event held by the Kilrush-based Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, will see free land-based watches taking place at 19 locations across the country, including Loop Head in West Clare and Black Head in the north of the county. Chief Executive Officer of Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, Dr Simon Berrow has been telling Clare FM's Morning Focus it's a good opportunity for people to play a part in marine conservation efforts. Photo (c) Irish Whale and Dolphin Group via Facebook

A West Clare School bus driver claims it's only a matter of time before a child is seriously injured or worse due to a lack of traffic calming measures on a busy Kilrush Road. Concerns have been raised over a high volume of speeding motorists on the R483 which serves Kilrush Community School, Regina House, Moneypoint Football Club, the Kilrush FET building and a number of residential areas. Local resident Mick Thorpe who also lives across from the school claims he's consistently unable to park in the designated school bus bay when on duty, and that his personal vehicle was recently damaged by a passing car. Mick says the situation needs to be urgently addressed.

There is an exciting redevelopment project in the heart of Kilrush, as Clare County Council has confirmed that a Part 8 planning application is being progressed for the redevelopment of the former Mars Cinema and Dance Hall site on Frances Street. The proposed multi-use development would see the historic site regenerated for community, cultural, educational and commercial use, while also preserving key features of the building's distinctive Art Deco character as part of the wider revitalisation of Kilrush town centre. To discuss the plans and what they could mean for the future of Kilrush, Councillor Ian Lynch joined Alan Morrissey on Friday's Morning Focus. Image (c) Mars Cinema Site, Frances Street Kilrush

Bike Week 2026 gets underway this weekend with events taking place right across County Clare and around the country to celebrate cycling and encourage more people to get on their bikes. From community spins and learn-to-cycle programmes to competitive races and family-friendly events, there's something for all ages and abilities. To talk about this year's events in Clare and the growing popularity of cycling, Alan Morrissey was joined by Gary Kiely of L and L Cycles in Kilrush and the West Clare Cycling Club. Image © Autumn bike lane by Smaranda Dragan's Images

Parents of children born through surrogacy are calling on the Government to act without delay, as key parts of the Health (Assisted Human Reproduction) Act 2024 remain unimplemented. While the law was passed nearly two years ago, many families say they are still living with legal uncertainty, with children not fully recognised as having two parents under Irish law. On Tuesday's Morning Focus Alan Morrissey was joined by two West Clare mothers who know these challenges all too well. Fiona Whyte from Miltown Malbay, whose children Ruby and Donal were born through surrogacy in India, and Hilary O'Donovan from Kilrush, whose twins were born via surrogacy in Ukraine in 2016. They've both been navigating the legal gaps for years — and are now adding their voices to calls for urgent improvement of legislation surrounding surrogacy. Image © Natalie Bond from Pexels Via Canva

People across Clare are urging people to thoroughly inspect their watercraft if planning to use them for the first time this year over the bank holiday. Kilrush RNLI says this includes making sure engines are serviced and that all equipment are in full working order. Prior to going out onto the water, it's advised to inform another person of your planned route and to bring a method of communication. Kilrush RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer, Charlie Glynn, says it's also vital to ensure the vessel has enough lifejackets for all crew members.

An important community event is taking place in West Clare later this month, aimed at raising awareness around domestic abuse and highlighting the supports available to those who need them. Organised by the Clare Local Area Network, or CLAN, the event will bring together a range of services in a welcoming and supportive setting at the West Clare Family Resource Centre in Kilrush. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Cecilia Brizuela, Coordinator of Women's Collective Ireland Clare, and June Dillon, Chair of the Safer Clare Campaign. Image © CLAN

Clare's Crime Prevention Office is urging older people suffering abuse or anyone who suspects elder abuse to report it. Elder abuse can affect people aged 65 and over, often within relationships built on trust, and can take many forms, from physical and emotional harm to financial exploitation and neglect. It can happen at home, in care settings, places we consider safe, by strangers, institutions, or loved ones. Kilrush-based Sergeant Edel Burke is urging anyone with concerns to contact safeguarding professionals who will be able to provide guidance.

On Friday's edition of Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with a mother from that part of West Clare. Alison Clancy was on the line, to tell us about a terrifying ordeal after her six-month-old baby suffered a severe allergic reaction, only to be told the nearest ambulance was over an hour away. Her story is the latest to add to growing concerns about ambulance cover in rural areas. Photo © Pat Flynn

On Thursday's Morning Focus we heard from a Clare mother about a deeply worrying experience that has raised fresh concerns about emergency response times in the region. Molly Kelly's seven-year-old daughter, who is autistic and non-verbal, became gravely ill over the weekend—but the family then faced a two-hour wait for an ambulance to take her from Shannondoc to University Hospital Limerick. As questions grow around ambulance availability, rural healthcare access, and ongoing pressures in the system, Alan Morrissey spoke with Molly, to hear her story. Clare Fm reached out to the HSE for a statement on this issue: "The HSE National Ambulance Service (NAS) regrets that any service user should have a negative experience. However, the HSE cannot discuss individual case details when doing so might reveal information relating to identifiable individuals, thereby breaching our ethical duty of confidentiality. The NAS works to deliver the highest standard of care for people using NAS services. All 999/112 calls received for emergency medical assistance are prioritised using an internationally recognised system that triages calls based on clinical priority, which range from life-threatening- cardiac or respiratory arrest to minor illness or injury. This means that during particularly busy periods, lower-acuity calls may wait longer for an ambulance. Ambulance bases have additional vehicles on site. These are in reserve for breakdowns and servicing. It also means crews coming on duty have a vehicle immediately available if the earlier crew and ambulance are attending another incident. This ensures continuity of service. The NAS is undergoing a significant transformation programme to enhance service delivery, optimise resources, and expand its role in providing alternative and community-based care. Since 2022, additional investment has seen the NAS base budget increase by 41% (an additional €83 million) to €285 million in 2025. Over the same period, staffing levels have increased by 28%, with an additional 588 whole-time equivalent staff, bringing total NAS staffing to 2,655 WTE. Capital investment of €126 million has also been made in fleet replacement and expansion to support these developments. Plans for 2026 include significant investment in the NAS: an additional 263 whole-time equivalents and €20 million in new funding, including additional resources in each of Kilrush, Ennis, and Ennistymon. This investment plan will deliver 21 additional crewed ambulances nationally, operating at peak demand, as well as four more Intermediate Care Vehicles, and continued development of the Clinical Hub and alternative care pathways. " Image © Alan Place

On this week's episode of The Future of Work, Pat Flynn chats with former public representative; Mayor of Kilrush and retired schoolteacher Tom Prendeville. This feature, 'The Future of Work' is funded by the News Reporting Scheme.

If you're looking for something uplifting and musical this April, the Kilrush Choral Society is bringing a true classic to the stage. The Sound of Music will be performed at Kilrush Community School from April 7th to the 11th. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by the director, Ger Rushe and member of the society, Geraldine Keating.

Concern has been expressed in Clare around the lack of delivery of beds at community hospitals last year. HSE Mid West has confirmed no new long stay or short stay beds were delivered at its facilities in its older person's residential services in Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary in 2025. It's also stated that negotiations are ongoing regarding its acquisition of St Senan's Nursing Home in Kilrush where it intends to install three additional long stay beds by the end of this year. Shannonbanks Sinn Féin Councillor James Ryan, who sits on the HSE's Regional

The Superintendent of Clare's Garda Division is being requested to convene an urgent multi-agency meeting following a string of violent incidents in Kilrush. On March 3rd, Gardaí were alerted to an incident of criminal damage by fire at a domestic residence, which involved a shot being fired at the home. It's understood the episode escalated from a brawl which took place in the town earlier that day, with a video of the incident circulating widely on social media. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch says it's behaviour which needs to be stamped out urgently.

CCTV systems aimed at identifying the perpetrators of illegal dumping are set to be rolled out at two locations in Clare. The surveillance cameras will be installed at sites in Kilrush and in the east of the county in May as part of a pilot project. The local authority is set to open the process to public consultation in the coming weeks, with a view to rolling out more systems at blackspots countywide. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon is hopeful it will make a meaningful difference. You can hear more on this story on Clare FM's Morning Focus this Monday from 9am.

CCTV systems aimed at identifying the perpetrators of illegal dumping are set to be rolled out at two locations in Clare. The surveillance cameras will be installed at sites in Kilrush and in the east of the county in May as part of a pilot project. The local authority is set to open the process to public consultation in the coming weeks, with a view to rolling out more systems at blackspots countywide. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon gave his thoughts to Clare FM's Daragh Dolan And Alan Morrissey was joined by Josefa Mc Elligott, Chairperson of Cratloe Community Council, a group that's been dealing firsthand with the ongoing problem of illegal dumping in the area. Image © Clare FM

All regions of Clare with the exception of Ennis will have additional funds for roads maintenance in the coming year. Clare County Council has unveiled a €48 million funding package for municipal district works in 2026. €9 million has been set aside for the Kilrush region, indicating a 6% increase on last year. The Ennistymon area has been allocated €6.5 million, up 20% on 2025, while Killaloe's is seeing a 3% boost to just shy of €7.4 million. Shannon's share of funding has shot up by 14% to €3.3 million while Ennis is the only municipal district seeing its funding drop this year, with just €2.98 million given to the county town, showing a decrease of 12%. The funding package was unveiled to Ennis's local elected representatives at a special meeting at Áras Contae an Chláir this week. Clare FM's Seán Lyons went along and spoke to a number of elected reps, including Clarecastle Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom O'Callaghan, about their thoughts. Image © Geograph.ie

Another spree of illegal dumping in Clare has prompted calls for stronger enforcement. It follows the discovery of multiple mattresses and lounge furniture on farmland just off the Ballyalla Road in Ennis over the weekend, along with bags of rubbish on the N68 in Kilrush. In the first two months of this year, Clare County Council has already received 104 illegal dumping complaints. Kilmurry McMahon based Aontú Representative June Dillon says it's hugely distressing and needs to be clamped down on.

A Clare TD expects a fresh expansion of the county's ambulance services to represent a "massive improvement". The National Ambulance Service has told a meeting of the Midwest's TDs and senators that five new ambulances will be added to the this county's fleet by the end of the year. It's also confirmed that Kilrush and Ennistymon will each have six whole-time equivalent positions added, with eight more yet to be assigned to a location, while six WTE intermediate car posts are to be created in Ennis. Bodyke Fine Gael Deputy Joe Cooney says it'll improve wait times which he acknowledges aren't good enough in certain parts of the county.

A Clare healthcare campaigner claims giving more ambulances to this county will only lead to more congestion and overcrowding at University Hospital Limerick. The National Ambulance Service has confirmed the addition of five extra ambulances and 27 staff to its services here. Data from the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation meanwhile shows 121 admitted patients were waiting for beds at the Dooradoyle facility this morning which was more than double the next busiest facility; St Vincent's Hospital in Dublin. Kilrush-based Friends of Ennis Hospital PRO Deirdre Culligan says the newly-allocated resources are welcome but don't get to the heart of the issue.

It's claimed the rollout of fibre broadband connections to parts of rural Clare will be "game-changing". €89 million has now been invested in Clare to ensure rural areas can avail of a high-speed connection. The Lisdoonvarna, Milltown Malbay and Rahey Cross areas are due to be connected to the NBI network later this year, with almost 2,500 Kilrush residents connected this week. NBI CEO TJ Malone says it will help rejuvenate the local communities.

A little-known chapter of County Clare's history is being brought to light in a new book and lecture this week. Rita McCarthy, a Clare-based social historian, has spent years researching the County Clare Nursery—a mother and baby home that operated from 1922 to 1932 in Kilrush. Her book, Forgotten Lives, uncovers the experiences of unmarried mothers and their children in the early years of the Irish Free State. Rita spoke to Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus to discuss her research and the stories of those whose lives were largely hidden from history.

A warning has been issued to those travelling to Clare's waterways this weekend that the recent inclement weather could create potentially lethal conditions. The Irish Coast Guard, Water Safety Ireland and RNLI have issued a joint water safety appeal urging people to stay safe in, on or near the water in the coming days. Recent data revealed 65% of accidental drownings were preceded by land-based activities like walking, angling and hiking. Kilrush RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer Charlie Glynn says assessing weather conditions before approaching the water is crucial.

The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IWDG), in collaboration with Fair Seas, returns home to Kilrush, Co Clare on Saturday, March 14th, as part of a series of free, in-person evening events in coastal towns around Ireland. The Local Groups Roadshow aims to connect coastal communities and local members of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group with the latest developments in marine conservation, marine protected areas (MPAs), and the future of Ireland's seas. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with Eva Lambert, Marine Policy and Advocacy Officer with the IWDG on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) iwdg.ie

It's being argued that while a Clare town has seen a "significant jump" in its rate of commercial vacancy, its number of newly empty units is "relatively small". A new report has found Shannon to have the highest rate of unoccupied commercial premises in Ireland with more than a third not in use as of the end of December. The findings state that the town's rate has risen by almost 4% in a year with roughly 82 of its units currently inactive. GeoDirectory CEO Dara Keogh, who wrote the report, has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the picture is much more positive for Ennis and Kilrush than it is for Shannon.