Podcasts about laois

Ireland and castles go hand in hand. With thousands scattered across the island, it can feel like there's one around every bend in the road. The real challenge isn't finding castles in Ireland — it's deciding which ones to add to your itinerary. Barbican Gate Rock of Dunamase, County Laois, Ireland This article is based on the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 331. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. No matter the type of travel you enjoy—or the type of transportation you're using—you'll find castles that easily fit into your trip. With more than 30,000 castles and castle ruins scattered across Ireland, the real challenge isn't finding them… it's deciding which ones make sense for your route and the time you have. That's exactly the kind of planning the Ireland Travel Compass is designed to help with. It brings attractions and accommodations together geographically, helps you see what fits well together, and makes it much easier to build an itinerary that actually works. And if you'd like a simple way to start thinking about your own itinerary, I've created a resource that walks you through my TRIP framework – a straightforward way to avoid the most common Ireland planning mistakes and build a trip that feels manageable and enjoyable. 10 Castles in Ireland Worth Visiting With thousands of castles scattered across Ireland, choosing which ones to visit can feel a bit overwhelming. Here are a few of my favorite castles in Ireland—and why they stand out. Rock of Dunamase (County Laois) – The Dramatic Castle Ruin Rock of Dunamase may be one of the most atmospheric castle ruins in Ireland. The site dates back to the 9th century when it served as a stronghold of the Kings of Laois. The ruins visitors see today sit on top of a massive rocky outcrop and were largely destroyed during Cromwell's invasion in 1650. Even in ruin, the location tells you why it mattered: the views stretch for miles across the countryside. Traveler tips: Free OPW-managed site Rarely crowded Easy detour when traveling between Dublin and Kilkenny Short walk up to the ruins with sweeping views Driving through narrow country roads and farmland to reach it only adds to the experience. Lawn games in front of Malahide Castle : Crack the whip.By Aoife for Flytographer; Dublin, Ireland. All rights reserved. Malahide Castle (County Dublin) – The Fairy Tale Castle Just 10 minutes from Dublin Airport, Malahide Castle is a perfect first stop after arriving in Ireland. The castle itself offers fascinating guided tours led by engaging storytellers who bring the Talbot family history to life. But the estate offers far more than the castle alone. Visitors can enjoy: Extensive parklands perfect for stretching your legs after a flight Walled gardens A fairy trail Butterfly house Dining at Avoca café The grounds are partly free to explore, while the gardens and castle tour require tickets. During busy months (May–September), it's smart to pre-book the castle tour. Malahide is also very easy to reach from Dublin city center by DART or bus, making it a great half-day excursion. Looking for more day trips from Dublin? Click Here! Bunratty Castle beyond Durty Nellie's Bunratty Castle (County Clare) – The Irish Tower House Experience If you want to understand the most common type of castle in Ireland, Bunratty Castle is the perfect example. Tower houses — tall, four-story defensive structures — once dotted the Irish landscape. Bunratty is considered the most completely restored example in the country. Visitors can explore: Dungeon levels Narrow spiral staircases Battlements with views over the countryside Surrounding the castle is Bunratty Folk Park, a 26-acre living history village that showcases historic Irish homes and daily life. Highlights include: Traditional farmhouses and cottages Costumed interpreters A recreated village with shops, schoolhouse, and pub Bunratty is also famous for its medieval banquet experience, held year-round. These dinners are extremely popular, so booking well in advance is highly recommended. Kilkenny Castle viewed from the parklands Kilkenny Castle (County Kilkenny) – Ireland's Castle Palace Unlike many defensive castles, Kilkenny Castle evolved into a grand aristocratic residence. Originally built as a fortress, it was transformed over centuries by the Butler family — Earls and later Dukes of Ormond — who held the castle for more than 600 years. Today visitors will find: Elegant reception rooms Decorative plasterwork ceilings Large windows overlooking parkland Formal gardens The castle sits in the center of Kilkenny City, surrounded by roughly 50 acres of parkland that locals still use for picnics, sports, and relaxing on sunny days. Kilkenny Castle is an OPW managed site. Tickets are available on site, and advance booking is rarely necessary. Learn about the OPW Heritage Card – the best deal in Irish history Cahir Castle along the River Suir Cahir Castle (County Tipperary) – The Norman Stronghold Cahir Castle is one of the largest and best-preserved Norman castles in Ireland. Set on the River Suir, the fortress features massive stone walls, towers, and defensive structures typical of Norman military design. Visitors can: Climb the tower Explore defensive passages Stand beneath the working portcullis Look for cannonballs embedded in the walls Guided tours are included with admission and provide fascinating insight into how these massive defensive castles operated. Despite its impressive size, Cahir Castle often sees surprisingly small crowds, making it a rewarding stop between other popular attractions like the Rock of Cashel and Blarney Castle. Leap Castle Photo credit: Mike Searle, CC BY-SA 2.0 Leap Castle (County Offaly) – Ireland's Haunted Castle Leap Castle is often called the most haunted castle in Ireland. Built in the late 15th century, the castle is tied to dark legends and family power struggles. The castle chapel is known as the “Bloody Chapel,” named after a violent incident during a rivalry between brothers. During restoration work in the early 20th century, a hidden dungeon filled with human remains was reportedly discovered. Leap Castle is privately owned and lived in by musician Sean Ryan, who has carried out much of the restoration work. Visits are possible, but only by appointment, so travelers must contact the owner ahead of time to arrange a tour. Dunluce Castle on the Causeway Coast Dunluce Castle (County Antrim) – The Dramatic Cliffside Castle Few castles in Ireland match the dramatic setting of Dunluce Castle along the Causeway Coast. The ruins sit right on the edge of towering Atlantic cliffs, creating one of the most photographed castle locations in Ireland. Visitors can explore: Ruins of the castle keep Clifftop viewpoints Visitor center exhibits about the castle's history The castle itself is impressive, but the surrounding views may be even more memorable. Two particularly stunning viewpoints include: The bend in the road east of the castle, where it suddenly appears in front of you Magheracross viewpoint west of the castle, offering a sweeping coastal perspective Bring a jacket — the winds here are often strong even on calm days. Ireland's Best Castle Hotels Ashford Castle viewed from the gardens Ashford Castle (County Mayo) – The Luxury Castle Stay For travelers dreaming of staying in a castle, Ashford Castle delivers a truly luxurious experience. Once owned by the Guinness family, the estate now consistently ranks among the best hotels in Ireland. Activities on the estate include: Falconry Golf Horseback riding Boat tours on Lough Corrib Gardens and woodland walks Afternoon tea is particularly popular and should be reserved ahead of time. Ashford Castle works best as a destination stay rather than a touring base — there is so much to experience on the estate that most guests prefer to stay at least two nights. Access to the estate is restricted to guests or visitors with reservations. Lough Eske Castle from the guest car park Lough Eske Castle (County Donegal) – A Relaxing Castle Retreat Lough Eske Castle offers a luxurious but peaceful castle experience surrounded by the landscapes of County Donegal. The focus here is relaxation rather than packed schedules. Highlights include: Spacious rooms Beautiful lake and woodland setting A highly regarded spa Fine dining and afternoon tea Unlike some castle hotels, Lough Eske also works well as a touring base. Nearby excursions include: Slieve League Cliffs Glencolmcille Scenic drives along Donegal's coast Families will appreciate that the hotel offers interconnecting rooms — something not commonly found in castle accommodations. Approaching Kinnity Castle Kinnitty Castle (County Offaly) – The Most Authentic Castle Stay For travelers who want a castle experience that feels historic and intimate, Kinnitty Castle is a wonderful option. Unlike many castle hotels that have been extensively modernized, Kinnitty retains much of its traditional character. The baronial rooms at the top of the castle feature exposed stone and wood, creating the feeling of being a guest in a historic residence. Activities nearby include: Horseback riding Archery Hill walking in the Slieve Bloom Mountains Guests can also visit nearby attractions like Birr Castle and Gardens. Inside the castle, the Dungeon Bar is a memorable spot for a meal, while the Library Bar is perfect for relaxing by the fire with a drink. One practical tip: there is no elevator, so pack lightly if you're staying on the upper floors. No matter how you choose to explore Ireland, castles have a way of connecting you to the country's history, its stories, and sometimes even its legends. And with so many scattered across the island, chances are you'll find at least one – or several – that fit perfectly into your trip. The post 10 Castles in Ireland to Inspire Your Trip appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Aontú held its Ard Fheis in Laois yesterday and Peadar Tóibín, the party's leader, speaks to This Week.

Sean Carley looks back at the sporting weekend, which includes: The Galway Hurlers' second win in a row at home to Waterford The Galway Footballers' draw in Ballyshannon Portumna's Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Hurling Championship Final victory over Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew The Galway Camogie Team's defeat to Waterford Connacht's dramatic late victory over top-of-the-table Glasgow Warriors in the URC Galway United's win over Sligo Rovers in the 100th Connacht Derby Local Soccer Basketball The #fulltimewhistle is sponsored by GetSetGo Game-changing online car, home and travel insurance that's faster, better and easier! Weekend results below... Gaelic Games   National Football League Division 1  Donegal 1-17 Galway 0-20  Kerry 1-18 Monaghan 0-7  Mayo 2-17 Armagh 0-22  Dublin 1-21 Roscommon 2-7  National Football League Division 2  Louth 1-22 Cavan 1-12  Tyrone 0-28 Offaly 2-13  Meath 1-21 Kildare 0-10  Derry 1-31 Cork 0-14  National Football League Division 3  Down 1-18 Fermanagh 1-15  Laois 3-16 Westmeath 1-13  Clare 1-21 Limerick 1-12  Wexford 0-16 Sligo 1-7  National Football League Division 4  Antrim 2-18 Wicklow 1-14  London 3-16 Waterford 2-13  Longford 1-19 Carlow 1-14  Tipperary 1-18 Leitrim 0-8   National Hurling League Division 1A  Galway 2-18 Waterford 0-16  Limerick 2-19 Offaly 0-17  Cork 3-12 Kilkenny 1-15   National Hurling League Division 1B  Clare 1-28 Carlow 0-18  Kildare 3-24 Down 1-23  Dublin 1-31 Antrim 1-16  National Hurling League Division 2  London 3-8 Derry 0-14  Meath 0-20 Mayo 1-15  Laois 1-23 Westmeath 0-17  National Hurling League Division 3  Roscommon 1-16 Tyrone 0-19  Donegal 3-20 Louth 1-10  Wicklow 5-14 Fermanagh 0-7  National Hurling League Division 4  Longford 3-18 Lancashire 0-12  Leitrim 0-20 Cavan 0-17  Warwickshire 3-11 Monaghan 0-13   Ladies National Football League Division 1  Galway 1-11 Kerry 1-9  Kildare 4-8 Meath 1-10  Cork 1-12 Waterford 3-5  Armagh 2-11 Dublin 2-11  Ladies National Football League Division 2  Tyrone 4-9 Wexford 3-8  Cavan 2-9 Monaghan 1-9  Donegal 0-9 Mayo 0-8  Tipperary 3-8 Westmeath 0-8  Ladies National Football League Division 3  Louth 0-15 Antrim 0-5  Clare 1-12 Limerick 1-8  Roscommon 4-4 Laois 0-12  Fermanagh 1-10 Down 2-6  Ladies National Football League Division 4  Sligo 2-9 Offaly 1-7  Leitrim 2-12 Derry 3-8  Wicklow 1-27 Kilkenny 0-0  Carlow 4-13 Longford 0-3   National Camogie League Division 1A  Waterford 0-12 Galway 1-5  National Camogie League Division 1B  Dublin 2-9 Wexford 0-10  Offaly 3-12 Down 0-10  Clare 3-8 Limerick 2-8  National Camogie League Division 2  Derry 0-12 Westmeath 0-10  Kerry 1-12 Carlow 1-9  Meath 2-16 Laois 1-8  National Camogie League Division 3  Armagh 2-10 Kildare 1-6  Tyrone 4-6 Roscommon 0-14  National Camogie League Division 3B  Monaghan 4-11 Louth 1-4  Mayo 6-8 Donegal 2-3   Minor A Camogie Championship  Galway 3-10 Cork 1-12   Connacht Post Primary Schools Senior B Hurling Championship Final  Portumna Community School 1-18 Holy Rosary College Mountbellew 0-13    Soccer  Connacht Junior Men's Cup Quarterfinals  Maree/Oranmore 1 Moyne Villa 2  Ballinahown 4 Mervue United 5  Colga 1 Castlebar Celtic 0  Salthill Devon 3 Castlerea Celtic 0  Connacht Junior Men's Shield  Galway Hibs 2 Corofin United 1  Kinvara United 3 Lough Harps 0  Lillis Cup  West United 0 Cois Fharraige 1  Bearna na Forbacha 4 Mervue United B 3  FAI Youth Cup  Lakewood Athletic 5 Maree/Oranmore 0  League of Ireland Premier Division  Galway United 1 Sligo Rovers 0  Derry City 4 Waterford 2  Drogheda United 1 Shelbourne 2  St. Patrick's Athletic 4 Dundalk 0  Bohemians 3 Shamrock Rovers 2  League of Ireland First Division  Athlone Town 2 Wexford FC 2  Cobh Ramblers 1 Finn Harps 1  Cork City 1 Bray Wanderers 0  Kerry FC 1 Longford Town 1  UCD 2 Treaty United 0  English Premier League  Wolves 2 Aston Villa 0  Bournemouth 1 Sunderland 1  Burnley 3 Brentford 4  Liverpool 5 West Ham 2  Newcastle 2 Everton 3  Leeds United 0 Manchester City 1  Brighton 2 Nottingham Forest 1  Fulham 2 Tottenham 1  Manchester United 2 Crystal Palace 1  Arsenal 2 Chelsea 1  Scottish Premiership  Dundee FC 3 Hibernian 3  Falkirk 5 Kilmarnock 1  Hearts 1 Aberdeen 0  Livingston 1 St. Mirren 1  Motherwell 2 Dundee United 0  Rangers 2 Celtic 2    Rugby  United Rugby Championship  Connacht 15 Glasgow Warriors 10  Cardiff 8 Leinster 7  Munster 21 Zebre 7  Ospreys 21 Ulster 10  Edinburgh 24 Scarlets 19  Lions 24 Stormers 10  Bulls 41 Sharks 0-12  Dragons 15 Benetton 15  All-Ireland League Division 2A  Corinthians 38 Old Crescent 27  Ballymena 16 Shannon 10  Barnhall 28 Banbridge 14   Dungannon 33 Cashel 31  Greystones 36 Wanderers 26  With 4 games to go, and with a Corinthians win, and a Wanderers loss, Corinthians have cut the gap to Wanderers to two points.  Corinthians host Greystones next Saturday at 2:30.   All-Ireland League Division 2B  Galwegians 19 Sligo 0  UL Bohs 35 Clogher Valley 28  Enniscorthy 34 Rainey 24  Navan 38 Buccaneers 10  Malone 52 Skerries 21  Women's All-Ireland League Division 1  Galwegians 44 Cooke 17  Railway Union 41 Tullow 5  Wicklow 27 Old Belvedere 15  Blackrock 62 Ballincollig 12  UL Bohs 47 Ennis 19  After 15 games played, Galwegians are in 5th place on 36 points.  17 behind 4th placed Old Belvedere.  Galwegians host Tullow next Saturday at 5 pm.   Connacht J1B League Semi Finals  Corinthians 2nds 52 Sligo 2nds 5  Westport 43 Ballinrobe 7   Connacht J1B League Relegation Play off  University of Galway 38 Creggs 2nds 0   Connacht J1C League Semi Finals  Monivea 25 Ballina 2nds 7  Corrib 15 Loughrea 0    Basketball  National Basketball League Men's Division 1  Maigh Cuilinn 84 Maree 77  Maree 80 ND Audit Portlaoise Panthers 72  National Basketball League Women's Division 1  University of Galway 85 Moy Tolka Rovers 55   2029 EuroBasket Pre-Qualifiers   Ireland 75 Azerbaijan 76 

90% of Irish people believe eulogies at funerals should be allowed, that's according to new research conducted by RIP.ie. Despite this some priests don't allow eulogies during masses.Joining Ciara to discuss is Fr Paddy Byrne, from Abbeyleix in Co. Laois.

Laois' Patrick Harding, the performance coach for Formula One driver Alex Albon, joins Eve Conway in studio to talk through his journey from the GAA, to the Olympics, to the Premier League and now to the pinnacle of motorsport. Ahead of the 2026 F1 season starting in Australia next week, with a whole new generation of cars, Patrick chats about how to extract every inch of performance from a driver over the course of the weekend, competition in the garage, and his favourite races.

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch, Tommy Guilfoyle and Derek Dormer all joined Alan Morrissey on Monday's Mornings Focus to look back on a busy weekend of sports. Games Reviewed: National Hurling League Division 1B, Round 4: Kildare 3-14 Clare 0-27 (Saturday, St. Conleth's Park Newbridge) National Football League: Clare 0-24 Laois 2-15 (Sunday, Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chíosóg) Centra Camogie League Division 1B: Clare 0-16 Wexford 0-7 (Saturday, Clareabbey) LGFA National Football League Division 3: Clare 4-7 Laois 2-11 (Sunday, Clarecastle Astro)

Presented by Leo Doyle and Pat McNamara. -00.44 Preview of big rugby match between England and Ireland, -12.39 Orla Burke from Whitegate talking about her school in Cellbridge -26.43 Paraic McMahon, head of News and Sport with the Clare echo talking hurling with the league game coming against Kildare, as well as a look at the league in general with one eye on the Championship. A look also at the footballers who face Laois this weekend. Originally broadcast on SBCR  21st February 2026

- Saturday 21st February 2026 - Wexford made the journey to Clare where their Div 1B Camogie Leagues round 2 game took place in Meelick after Clareabbey was deemed unplayable. -00.25 Match report Leo Doyle. SBCR  were there for live commentary of the match which is also available to download on podcast.  -03.49 -interview Clare Manager Eugene Foudy -09.45 Clare senior hurlers travelled to Newbridge where they got two points after a tough game against Kildare, SBCR were there with -09.45 Interview Brian Lohan, Clare senior hurling manager -12.04 Nicholas Rynne spoke to Dylan McMahon of Clonlara. -15.21 Dan O'Meara, Kildare player whose father Pat hails from Tuamgraney. -19.25 Pat O'Brien with Match report of St Flannans v Christian Brothers Kilkenny, quarter final of Colleges All ireland series. SUNDAY 22nd February. -25.05 Clare senior football manager Paul Madden after Clare beat Laois in the league, interview Nicholas Rynne. -27.05 Pat O Brien with a report from the most recent Clare County board meeting and update on draws for Senior competitions. Originally broadcast on SBCR  22nd February 2026

Sean Carley looks back at the sporting weekend, which includes: - The Galway Footballers' defeat to Roscommon in the National Football League Division 1 - The Galway Hurlers' victory over Offaly in the National Hurling League Division 1A - St. Raphael's College, Loughrea's All-Ireland Post Primary Schools Senior A Hurling Championship quarter final defeat to St. Kieran's, Kilkenny - The Galway Ladies Footballers' victory over Armagh in the LGFA National Football League Division 1 - St. Cuan's Castleblakeney's historic All-Ireland Post Primary Schools Senior C Camogie Final victory - Galway United's hard-fought draw with Shelbourne at Tolka Park in the League of Ireland Men's Premier Division - Local soccer action, including big games in the Men's Premier Division - A big weekend of basketball, which saw three out of four Galway sides victorious - Racing at Naas The #fulltimewhistle is sponsored by GetSetGo Game-changing online car, home and travel insurance that's faster, better and easier! Weekend Results below:   National Football League Division 1  Roscommon 2-16 Galway 0-21  Kerry 1-16 Dublin 1-10  Mayo 2-30 Monaghan 2-11  Donegal 1-20 Armagh 0-19  National Football League Division 2  Derry 2-25 Offaly 0-8  Cork 1-23 Meath 1-21  Louth 1-15 Tyrone 0-13  Cavan 0-16 Kildare 0-13  National Football League Division 3  Sligo 1-18 Limerick 1-15  Clare 0-24 Laois 2-15  Westmeath 1-26 Fermanagh 2-11  Down 1-29 Wexford 1-19  National Football League Division 4  Carlow 1-26 Waterford 0-15  Wicklow 2-26 London 0-16  Antrim 2-20 Leitrim 1-15  Longford 1-15 Tipperary 0-18    National Hurling League Division 1A  Galway 2-23 Offaly 0-18  Limerick 0-36 Tipperary 0-21  Kilkenny 1-21 Waterford 1-20  National Hurling League Division 1B  Dublin 4-19 Wexford 3-22  Clare 0-27 Kildare 3-14  National Hurling League Division 2  Laois 1-18 Kerry 1-17  Westmeath 3-22 London 0-20  Meath 1-20 Derry 1-18  National Hurling League Division 3  Donegal 1-18 Armagh 1-9  Tyrone 2-18 Fermanagh 1-17  Roscommon 0-14 Louth 0-11  National Hurling League Division 4  Cavan 2-20 Lancashire 2-15  Sligo 2-34 Warwickshire 0-3  Leitrim 1-19 Monaghan 1-11    Ladies National Football League Division 1  Galway 3-11 Armagh 0-15  Meath 1-9 Waterford 0-10  Cork 0-16 Kerry 0-8  Dublin 3-5 Kildare 1-8  Ladies National Football League Division 2  Westmeath 4-10 Wexford 1-13  Tyrone 2-7 Mayo 1-10  Cavan 1-6 Donegal 0-7  Tipperary 1-12 Monaghan 1-12  Ladies National Football League Division 3  Clare 4-7 Laois 2-11  Down 1-12 Roscommon 2-6  Antrim 4-10 Fermanagh 2-10  Louth 2-7 Limerick 0-6  Ladies National Football League Division 4  Leitrim 7-16 Wicklow 2-0  Carlow 4-12 Derry 1-7  Offaly Longford was cancelled  Sligo 5-17 Kilkenny 1-0    National Camogie League Division 1A  Antrim 2-10 Cork 1-11  Kilkenny 0-15 Tipperary 0-10  National Camogie League Division 1B  Clare 0-16 Wexford 0-7  Down 1-10 Dublin 0-10  Limerick 1-15 Offaly 2-9  National Camogie League Division 2A  Laois 2-14 Derry 1-9  Kerry 2-10 Meath 1-11  Westmeath 3-8 Carlow 0-10  National Camogie League Division 3A  Kildare 0-16 Wicklow 1-1  Armagh 3-11 Roscommon 0-12  National Camogie League Division 3B  Mayo 3-11 Louth 1-10  Monaghan 6-6 Donegal 4-6    All-Ireland U16 Camogie Championship  Galway 5-12 Waterford 1-5    All-Ireland Post-Primary Schools Senior A Hurling Championship Quarterfinals  St Kieran's College 2-19 St. Raphael's College, Loughrea 0-16   St. Flannan's College Ennis 2-12 Kilkenny CBS 0-13  St. Flannan's will play Presentation College Athenry in the All-Ireland semi-final; the other semi-final will see St. Kiernan's College face Nenagh CBS.      All-Ireland Post Primary Schools Senior C Camogie Championship Final  St. Cuan's Castleblakeney 3-6 St. Mary's Charleville 0-10    All-Ireland Junior B Hurling Championship  Tommy Larkins 2-10 Silvermines 2-9    Soccer  Galway FA Men's Premier Division  Colga 3 Maree/Oranmore 3  Athenry 3 Moyne Villa 3  Mervue United 1 Salthill Devon 1  Corrib Celtic Renmore 11 OFF  Galway FA Men's Championship  Salthill Devon B 0 Loughrea 1  Galway Hibs 2 Knocknacarra 1  Dynamo Blues 1 Corofin United 2  Corrib Rangers 2 Colga B 4  Maree/Oranmore B 1 St. Bernard's 6  Galway FA Men's Division 1  Cois Fharraige 4 Athenry B 0   Mervue United B 0 Oughterard 3  Galway FA Men's Division 2  Merlin Woods Sports Club 1 Tuam Celtic 4  Corrib Celtic B 7 Moyne Villa B 2  St. Patrick's East Galway United was conceded by St. Pat's  FAI Youth Cup  Kinvara United 0 Kanturk AFC 4  Galway FA Women's Premier Division  Mervue United 2 Athenry 2  Knocknacarra 5 Moyne Villa 0 Galway FA Women's Championship   Merlin Woods Sports 3 Club Colga 1  Athenry B 0 Craughwell United 3  Bearna na Forbacha 2 Kinshanvey United 4  Ballinasloe Town 1 Tuam Celtic 0  League of Ireland Premier Division  Shelbourne 1 Galway United 1  Derry City 0 Bohemians 1  Waterford 0 Sligo Rovers 0  Dundalk 1 Drogheda United 1  Shamrock Rovers 2 St. Patrick's Athletic 0  League of Ireland First Division  Finn Harps 2 UCD 1  Kerry FC 0 Athlone Town 1  Treaty United 0 Bray Wanderers 1  Wexford FC 1 Cork City 4  Longford Town 1 Cobh Ramblers 2  English Premier League  Aston Villa 1 Leeds United 1  Brentford 0 Brighton & Hove Albion 2  Chelsea 1 Burnley 1  West Ham United 0 Bournemouth 0  Manchester City 2 Newcastle United 1  Crystal Palace 1 Wolves 0  Nottingham Forest 0 Liverpool 1  Sunderland 1 Fulham 3  Tottenham 1 Arsenal 4  Scottish Premiership  Aberdeen 2 Dundee FC 3  Dundee United 1 Kilmarnock 1  Hearts 1 Falkirk 0  St. Mirren 0 Motherwell 5  Celtic 1 Hibernian 2  Livingston 2 Rangers 2     Rugby  Six Nations  Ireland 42 England 21  Scotland 26 Wales 23  France 33 Italy 8  U20 Six Nations  Ireland 31 England 21  Wales 31 Scotland 21  France 32 Italy 17    Connacht J1A League Semi-Finals  Creggs 15 Ballina 14  Dunmore 31 Ballinasloe 19  National Basketball League Division 1  Titans 89 Malahide 80   Drogheda Wolves 90 Maigh Cuilinn 65  Maree 93 Moy Tolka Rovers 86   National Basketball League Women's Division 1  University of Galway Mystics 84 Abbey Seals Dublin Lions 68     

It's hoped Clare will carry huge momentum into Round 4 of the National Football League, bouyed by their first win of the league series. The Banner will be looking to secure back to back wins in Division 3 when they welcome Laois to Zimmer Biomet Páirc Chiosóg on Sunday. Paul Madden's side come into the game off the back of a strong finish to their game against Fermanagh which saw them pick up their first points of the campaign. Clare FM analyst Joe Garry says the manner of the result will provide a great lift to the squad.

Alpha Drives in Portlaoise is powering into its next phase, with a multi-million euro expansion and ambitious hiring plans. Managing Director John Dwan joins Ronan to discuss automation, engineering careers, and why advanced manufacturing is thriving in the Midlands. Louise McSharry of Make & Share outlines bold plans for a new Midlands Creative Cluster designed to connect designers, makers, and studios at scale. Kevin Scully of The Merry Mill shares the story behind Ireland's only certified organic flour mill—just in time for Pancake Tuesday. Plus, we preview National Enterprise Week 2026 and the packed schedule from the LEOs across Westmeath, Laois, and Offaly.

Clare's Senior Football Boss has hailed improved efficiency following their opening win of the National Football League. The Banner overcame Fermanagh by 2-18 to 0-18 on away soil with Aaron Griffin and Daniel Walsh both finding the net. Next up, Clare face Laois at Zimmer Biomet Pairc Chiosóg on February 22nd Manager Paul Madden says reducing turnovers played a big role in the win.

Laois are back in intermediate camogie following their All-Ireland premier junior title win last year and have a Division 2A campaign ahead.  But last year in Croke Park, Laois were back.

Jerry spoke to Maura Fitzgerald, Norah O’Connor, and Joan Shanahan, members of the Killarney team that were crowned County Senior Camogie Champions 58 years ago. They were never presented with their trophy. Almost 60 years later, they will finally be presented with the cup that they won back in the late 60s. The presentation will take place at half-time in Fitzgerald Stadium this Saturday, February 14th, when Kerry host Laois in the national camogie league.

Off The Ball's Rachel Sheehan speaks to Galway's Niamh Mallon, Cork's Laura Hayes, Laois' Clodagh Tynan, Dublin's Aisling Maher and Armagh's Rachael Merry at the launch of the Centra Camogie Leagues 2026

June is an upcoming Irish singer/songwriter from Laois. Her songs span between alternative folk, pop and dance music with Irish traditional singing influences. The Laois native has performed 10 original songs at the Panache music festival in Hoylake, Liverpool and also performed at a “Beatles Day” in Albert Dock, Liverpool, covering a number of songs by The Beatles. She is inspired by an eclectic range of artists including Clannad, Sia and David Guetta. Driven by raw emotion and understated intensity, her new track “Nothing" blends moody production with an intimate, stripped-back approach that puts feeling front and center. Built around atmospheric textures, subtle dynamics, and a reflective melodic core, the song captures a sense of quiet tension and vulnerability that lingers long after it ends. Its minimalist arrangement allows every sonic detail to breathe, creating a cinematic, late-night feel that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable - truly capturing the feeling of emptiness.

 jQuery(document).ready(function(){ cab.clickify(); }); Original Podcast with clickable words https://tinyurl.com/24dj2bpp Contact: irishlingos@gmail.com Orange Alert and heavy rain promised again in the East. Foláireamh Oráiste agus báisteach throm geallta arís san Oirthear. An Orange Warning has been issued and heavy rain is expected again tomorrow in Waterford and Wicklow, with the Met Office saying that there is a high risk of frost again in those two counties. Tá Foláireamh Oráiste fógartha agus báisteach throm geallta arís amárach i bPort Láirge agus i gCill Mhantáin, agus Oifig na hAimisre ag rá go bhfuil contúirt mhór fuarlaigh an athuair sa dá chontae sin. The storm is expected to last for 24 hours from 3 o’clock tonight, Wednesday night, until 3 o’clock in the morning on Thursday night. Ón 3 a chlog anocht, oíche Dé Céadaoin, atá an doineann geallta agus mairfidh an foláireamh ar feadh 24 uair a chloig, go dtí an 3 ar maidin san oíche Déardaoin. A Yellow Alert has also been issued, for the same period of time, in Dublin, Kildare, Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois and Louth, Wexford, Monaghan and Tipperary. Tá Foláireamh Buí fógartha freisin, an tréimhse chéanna ama, i mBaile Átha Cliath, Cill Dara, Ceatharlach, Cill Chainnigh, Laois agus Lú, Loch Garman, Muineachán agus Tiobraid Árann. Met Éireann says that the soft ground has been soaked by the rain it has shed on the east coast over the past 10 days and as a result there are cold spots in rivers and widespread flooding will occur again. Deir Met Éireann go bhfuil an talamh bog báite leis an mbáisteach atá caite aige ar an gcósta thoir le 10 lá anuas agus dá bharr sin go bhfuil fuarlaigh in aibhneacha agus go mbeidh tuillte go forleathan arís. Wexford County Council has warned drivers to be vigilant as many roads are still under water, including roads that would not be expected to be affected by flash floods. Tá fainic curtha ag Comhairle Chontae Loch Garman ar thiománaithe a bheith san airdeall mar go bhfuil bóithre go leor fós faoi uisce, bóithre ina measc nach mbeadh súil leo a bheith buailte ag fuarlaigh. The Council says there will be delays in the stormwater runoff, particularly along the coast, as drainage systems in the region are already overflowing, and due to the high tide. Beidh moill ar an uisce trámh a deir an Chomhairle, go háirid cois cósta, mar go bhfuil córais draenála sa réigiún ag gabháil thar maoil mar atá, agus mar gheall ar an taoide ard. We have a storm, the Great St. Brigid’s Storm, from now until the end of the week, and it won’t help that strong currents and high winds are promised. Tá rabharta linn, Rabharta Mór na Féile Bríde, as seo go deireadh na seachtaine, agus ní chuideoidh sé ach an oiread go bhfuil sruth láidir agus gaoth mhór geallta.

Starting a business is one thing — sustaining it for 15 years is another. Catherine Kiveney joins Ronan to reflect on a journey that began with no roadmap and evolved into multiple businesses, changing client expectations and a growing role in Ireland's tourism and events economy. Thousands of people leave Laois every day for work — but where do they go, and what skills go with them? Ronan speaks with Angela McEvoy of Laois County Council about a new commuter survey designed to shape local jobs, investment and economic strategy. Getting noticed is one of the biggest challenges facing Irish SMEs. Jo Gilfoy of Vodafone Business introduces the See Your Business Pitchside initiative — and why ambitious Midlands businesses should seize the opportunity to put their brand in front of millions at the 2026 Six Nations. After 45 years in business, Eamonn Brackens Menswear in Portarlington is closing its doors. Ronan will talk to Bernie Bracken about the story behind the store, its place in the community, and what comes next.

Sean Carley looks back on the weekend in sport, which includes: victory for the Galway Footballers away to Armagh, defeat for the Galway Hurlers at home to Cork, a bonus point victory for Connacht away to Zebre in the United Rugby Championship, the Galway International Rally, a dramatic weekend at the top of the Galway FA Premier Division and victory for Maree and Titans, but defeat for Maigh Cuilinn and Mystics in basketball. The #fulltimewhistle is sponsored by GetSetGo Game-changing online car, home and travel insurance that's faster, better and easier! Weekend results below: National Football League Division 1  Galway 3-12 Armagh 0-20  Mayo 1-18 Dublin 2-9  Donegal 1-22 Kerry 1-18  Roscommon 3-16 Monaghan 1-16  National Football League Division 2  Derry 1-15 Tyrone 1-12  Kildare 3-17 Offaly 0-17  Cork 1-17 Louth 1-12  Meath 2-17 Cavan 1-18  National Football League Division 3  Down 0-18 Limerick 1-14   Wexford 0-23 Laois 0-9  Westmeath 2-19 Clare 1-17  Sligo 1-19 Fermanagh 0-15  National Football League Division 4  Carlow 1-15 Wicklow 2-9  Leitrim 1-16 Waterford 2-8  London 0-19 Longford 2-8  Tipperary 1-13 Antrim 1-9    National Hurling League Division 1A  Cork 2-20 Galway 1-21  Tipperary 5-24 Offaly 1-19  Waterford 1-21 Limerick 0-20  National Hurling League Division 1B  Dublin 2-19 Kildare 0-11  Clare 2-30 Antrim 1-19  Wexford 0-27 Down 0-25  National Hurling League Division 2  Laois 0-25 Derry 0-15  London 0-19 Mayo 1-16  Kerry 2-11 Westmeath 0-17  National Hurling League Division 3  Donegal 2-35 Fermanagh 0-9  Tyrone 2-18 Louth 0-16  Wicklow 2-26 Armagh 0-10  National Hurling League Division 4  Monaghan 1-23 Lancashire 2-16  Sligo 2-20 Leitrim 0-18  Longford 1-14 Cavan 1-12    LGFA National League Division 1  Cork 1-10 Galway 2-5  Armagh 0-13 Kildare 0-9  Meath Dublin MON  Kerry Waterford MON  LGFA National League Division 2  Cavan 1-15 Tipperary 1-9  Mayo 5-14 Wexford 0-7  Donegal 2-10 Monaghan 0-13  Tyrone 4-15 Westmeath 6-6  LGFA National League Division 3  Louth 1-7 Clare 0-6  Antrim 4-16 Limerick 1-4  Fermanagh 4-8 Roscommon 3-11  Down 2-14 Laois 1-14  LGFA National League Division 4  Longford 0-10 Laois 0-4  Leitrim 5-10 Sligo 2-7  Carlow 0-14 Wicklow 3-2  Offaly 5-19 Kilkenny 0-2    Munster U17 Development Camogie Championship  Galway 1-14 Tipperary 2-6    All-Ireland Minor Camogie Championship Round 1  Galway 1-10 Limerick 0-10    Rugby  United Rugby Championship  Connacht 31 Zebre 15  Benetton 20 Scarlets 20  Glasgow Warriors 31 Munster 22  Bulls 52 Lions 17  Sharks 36 Stormers 24  Leinster 28 Edinburgh 20  Ulster 21 Cardiff 14  Ospreys 19 Dragons 13    All-Ireland League Division 2A  Corinthians 27 Shannon 22  Barnhall 19 Ballymena 12   Dungannon 24 Banbridge 21  Cashel 26 Greystones 7   Wanderers 22 Old Crescent 17  Corinthians have played 12 games and have moved up to 5th place on 30 points. 3 points behind Wanderers.  Corinthians play Wanderers away next weekend.    All-Ireland League Division 2B  Galwegians 28 Enniscorthy 14  Buccaneers 27 Malone 22  Clogher Valley 24 Navan 14  Rainey 17 Skerris 14  UL Bohs 52 Sligo 17  Galwegians are 12 wins from 12 and 15 points clear of second-placed Clogher Valley.      Connacht Junior 1A League  Ballinasloe 26 Connemara 20  Dunmore 40 Castlebar 0  Connacht Junior 1B League  Corinthians 2nds 47 Ballyhaunis 0  University of Galway 26 Creggs 2nds 25  Ballinrobe 17 Galwegians 2nds 17  Sligo 2nds 21 Westport 17  Connacht Junior 1C League  Corrib 36 Claremorris 0  OLBC Monivea (SAT 7:30)  Carrick on Shannon 22 Corinthians 3rd 20  Ballina 2nds 19 Loughrea 13    Soccer  Galway FA Men's Premier Division  Moyne Villa 0 Renmore 0  Athenry 0 Salthill Devon 2  Corrib Celtic 2 Maree/Oranmore 2  Mervue United 3 Craughwell United 1    Galway FA Men's Championship  Loughrea 2 Knocknacarra 2   Dynamo Blues 1 Maree/Oranmore B 1  St. Bernard's v Galway Hibs was called off late...    Women's Connacht Cup  Castlerea Celtic Bearna na Forbacha was conceded by Bearna na Forbacha   Dunmore Town 0 Mervue United 5  Glen View Stars 3 Corrib Celtic 0  Salthill Devon 2 Athenry 1  Colemanstown United 1 Swinford 5    President's Cup  Shamrock Rovers 0 Derry City 1    English Premier League  Brighton 1 Hove Albion Everton 1  Leeds United 0 Arsenal 4  Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 Bournemouth 2  Chelsea 3 West Ham United 2  Liverpool 4 Newcastle 1  Aston Villa 0 Brentford 1  Manchester United 3 Fulham 2  Nottingham Forest 1 Crystal Palace 1  Tottenham Hotspur 2 Manchester City 2    Basketball  National Basketball League Men's Division 1  Limerick Sport Eagles 83 Maigh Cuilinn 74  Maree 114 Tipp Talons 70  Titans 100 Killarney Cougars 56  After 14 games Maree are in 5th place on 30 points, despite having played 2 games more than them, Titans are 3 points behind them in 6th.   Maigh Cuilinn have played 15 games, and sit in 11th on 21 points.    National Basketball League Women's Division 1  Cleveland Rockets 73 University of Galway Mystics 61  Limerick Sport Huskies 87 Moy Tolka Rovers 61  Dublin Raiders 79 Swords Thunder 62  Clunetech Kilkenny Stars 76 Abbey Seals Dublin Lions 67  Limerick Celtics 71 Templeogue 69     After 13 games played, University of Galway Mystics are 8th in the table, on 12 points.   

A large brat bhríde, crafted by a group of Laois women, has gone on display in Dublin's GPO ahead of St Brigid's Day. Determined to keep the fading tradition alive, Portarlington woman Rita O'Loughlin founder of “My Brat Bhríde” teamed up with Portlaoise craftswomen to create an impressive 33-square piece.

On Hurling Chat this week, Andy Coen and Cyril Farrell join Niall and Sean to cast their eye over the opening round of the National Hurling League. (28th January 2026). Green shoots in Galway's loss to Tipperary? Young lads up to the task? Cork indicate their well-being despite the All-Ireland Final loss Leesiders come to Salthill on Saturday evening - what can we expect? Kilkenny find going tough against resolute Offaly Wins for Clare, Wexford, and Laois that all have significance, while Mayo and Roscommon experience contrasting fortunes And finally the lads "quiz

Damien Cain is an Ireland-based independent artist whose music blends melancholic alt-rock, gothic undertones, and a cinematic sense of storytelling. Active since the late 1980s, he first gained underground recognition with his progressive art-rock project Celtic Crypt and later with CAIN – whose 2000 single ‘Age of Darkness' sold over 250,000 copies and earned the Impala Diamond Award. Over the years, Cain has collaborated with artists ranging from Sir Christopher Lee to Wayne Hussey (The Mission), and developed a signature sound rooted in emotion, atmosphere and poetic darkness. Now living in Co. Laois, Ireland, Cain returns with his new album ‘Standarte', his most personal work to date. Mixed and mastered at Hellfire Studios in Dublin, the record brings together international musicians and explores the line between alt-rock, soft rock, darkwave, and melodic hard rock. ‘Standarte' marks both a continuation and a rebirth: three decades of stories carried forward into a new era. We had the pleasure of speaking with Damien about his new album, the creative process behind it, his extensive career, and so much more. Find out more here: https://www.damiencain.com/ Website: https://gbhbl.com/ LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/gbhbl Ko-Fi (Buy us a coffee): https://ko-fi.com/gbhbl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GBHBL Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gbhbl/ Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/gbhbl.com Threads: https://www.threads.net/@gbhbl Contact: gbhblofficial@gmail.com Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/gbhbl Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5A4toGR0qap5zfoR4cIIBo Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/hr/podcast/the-gbhbl-podcasts/id1350465865 Intro/Outro music created by HexedRiffsStudios YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKSpZ6roX36WaFWwQ73Cbbg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hexedriffsstudio

The wonderful TV presenter, model and actress Laura Whitmore joins Tanya Rose to share her travel secrets this week. In this episode, Laura unpacks her first work trip flying to Los Angeles to interview Coldplay, recalls her epic 14-day road trip across America and shares her hack for booking cheap 5* hotel rooms… Plus, Laura discusses her love of her home country of Ireland and tells the story of how she found her favourite restaurant ever in Bali during monsoon season! Don't forget to follow @travelsecretsthepodcast and remember, you can watch all of our episodes on YouTube. Places mentioned: London, England Dublin, Ireland Wicklow, Ireland Kerry, Ireland The Merrion Hotel, Dublin, Ireland Ballyfin, Laois, Ireland The K Club, Kildare, Ireland Niagara Falls, Canada Pale Hall Hotel, Snowdonia, Wales San Francisco, California, United States Boston, Massachusetts, United States Reno, Nevada, United States Lake Tahoe, Nevada, United States Mount Rushmore, South Dakota, United States Wyoming, United States Bali, Indonesia Mozaic, Ubud, Indonesia Cape Town, South Africa Majorca, Spain Marrakesh, Morocco Thailand Los Angeles, United States Chapters 00:00 Intro 03:53 Secret 1: Number 1 travel destination everybody should go to 08:10 Secret 2: Most unexpected travel experience 11:13 Secret 3: Most Over or Underrated travel experience 15:04 Secret 4: Best Food & Drink while travelling 21:16 Secret 5: Number 1 travel tip 28:28 Secret 6: Poignant memory from a trip 31:11 Secret 7: Special travel photograph 34:37 Outro

Eddie Scally and Michael Walsh analyze Kilkenny's season opener against Laois and debate positions 1, 3 and 6. They also talk about the AIB All-Ireland Club Finals and as club manager's get to work, we discuss how those taking over a team for the first time go about it.The KCLR Hurling Podcast brought to you by Morrissey Motors Peugeot Kilkenny. 

Kilkenny earned a first competitive win of the season beating Laois 2-17 to 10 points in the Walsh Shield semi final while TJ Reid is confirmed as the captain for 2026, we hear from Derek Lyng and Taggy Fogarty. As well as all of that we chat with Carlow Manager Pat Bennett. The KCLR Hurling Podcast brought to you by Morrissey Motors Peugeot Kilkenny.

Kilkenny senior hurling manager Derek Lyng spoke to CRKC Sport's Ciaran Muldowney.

Ireland's first purpose built senior living community has opened its doors to new residents. The Heritage Village is based on an Australian model, with a community hub that provides a range of supports from medical care to home maintenance. When finished it will have 160 homes, purpose built for over 55s with many still working. Supported living could help people downsize and help with the housing crisis. And keep the elderly out of nursing homes. Henry McKean toured the Heritage Village at Killenard, County Laois and sent this report.

This spring, the man known as “The Tinder Rapist” will be free to leave the midlands prison in county Laois. Patrick Nevin, previously ofnow of no fixed abode, has been in custody since 2014 for the attack of three women over an eleven day period in 2014. We get the details from Stephen Breen, Crime Editor, The Irish Sun.

Getting married this year and hoping to be a bit more sustainable? Bronwyn from Ballintubbert House in Laois joined Andrea to offer advice as well as Jessica O'Sullivan – Freelance Writer.

A new report on GAA demographics has found that 66% of Clare's population growth in recent years has been attributed to migration, both foreign and domestic, while the county is judged to have a low birth rate. Another significant finding from the demographics report is that Clare, along with Kerry, Cavan, Waterford, Tyrone, Donegal and Laois, has an outlying single large club, which was found to be affecting the competitive landscape. The GAA's National Demographic Committee have unveiled recommendations to tackle the issues outlined in the report, including targeted growth of new and existing clubs and support for clubs that struggle to field 15 players. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with Clare GAA's Demographics Officer, Neil O'Brien.

Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke TD has announced details of an €18 million investment in 40 projects across Ireland under the Smart Regions Enterprise Innovation Scheme, designed to strengthen regional enterprise, drive innovation and support sustainable economic growth. Co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union, through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) Southern, Eastern & Midland and Northern & Western Regional Programmes 2021-2027, the Smart Regions scheme supports the different regions of the country in harnessing cutting-edge technologies and world-class expertise. Aligned with the regional priorities set out in the National Smart Specialisation Strategy for Innovation and the nine Regional Enterprise Plans, Smart Regions drives high-impact projects in priority sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), agritech and food, sustainability, insurance technology, and advanced manufacturing. Funding Overview This announcement sets out the approved funding allocation so far under the Smart Regions Scheme, with projects approved across the country, including: Northern and Western Regional Programme area: €3.485,882for 17 projects Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme area: €14,571,766 for 23 projects The Northern and Western Regional Programme area includes counties Galway, Roscommon, Leitrim, Sligo, Donegal, Monaghan, Mayo and Cavan. The Southern, Eastern and Midland Regional Programme area includes counties Carlow, Waterford, Wexford, Kilkenny, Cork, Kerry, Clare, Limerick, Tipperary, Longford, Westmeath, Offaly, Laois, Louth, Meath, Kildare, Wicklow, and Dublin. Minister Burke made this announcement following a visit to the site of Catalyst HQ, a new €8.1m Enterprise Centre in Carlow town, which has been approved for regional infrastructure funding from the Smart Regions scheme through Enterprise Ireland, to support businesses and enterprises in Carlow and the South-East. Minister Peter Burke TD said: "I am very pleased to announce this group of 40 innovative projects that have been funded under the Smart Regions Enterprise Innovation Scheme, which is co-funded under the European Regional Development Fund. These projects, spread across the entire country, will make vital contributions to strengthening innovation in all sectors, regional ecosystems and the Irish economy." "These 40 projects will provide enterprise infrastructure, cluster development and business animation services that will benefit entrepreneurs and enterprise growth in a variety of sectors. The scheme will see physical facilities and training opportunities made available to businesses throughout the country through an existing network of enterprise centres and hubs that have been supported by Enterprise Ireland." Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon said: "The Smart Regions Enterprise Innovation Scheme is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union under the European Regional Development Fund. The projects announced today are reflective of the collaborative approach at the heart of this scheme. Smart Regions aims to address specific issues in each region, building on regional strengths in line with the National Smart Specialisation Strategy for Innovation." "The 40 projects that have been launched will see growing collaboration among regional stakeholders under the triple helix model of industry, academia and the public sector." Minister of State for Trade Promotion, Artificial Intelligence and Digital Transformation Niamh Smyth said: "This Government is committed to growing our economy and fostering regional enterprise growth; the Smart Regions Enterprise Innovation Scheme reflects this and the approved projects are also well aligned to the priorities set out in the Regional Enterprise Plans, which provide a clear set of objectives and actions to support enterprise development in each region. "The Catalyst project announced for C...

Following three All-Ireland senior final appearances, including their win in 2011, Killimor are back on the national stage for the first time in 10 years this Sunday (30th November 2025) when they clash with Laois' Camross in the AIB intermediate semi-final. The east Galway club came from behind twice to beat Sarsfields after a replay in the county final, and followed it up with a one-point victory to Roscommon's St. Dominic's in the Connacht decider. Leading up to the game, Killimor manager Darren McDonagh has been chatting to Galway Bay FM's Darren Kelly. == Throw-in at Trim on Sunday is 1pm and we'll have updates here in Galway Bay FM.

Finn Whelan, award winning 14 year old farmer, and his biggest cheerleader, his mother Gillian.

Paul Reynolds, Crime Correspondent, reports on a seizure of over 8 million euro worth of suspected cocaine in Co Laois.

Lori Moriarty who works with Laois county library highlights the importance of libraries.

Marion McKeone sits down face to face with Jarlath in front of packed podcast stage crowd at Electric Picnic in Stradbally country Laois to discuss where this dark chapter in American history is headed. How bad is it right now and how bad could it get? Marion explains some of the more shocking aspects of the most recent developments in US politics and takes questions from the listeners. Is Gavin Newsom America's best hope or a flash in the pan? Thanks to Naoise Nunn and his team at Mindfield for making this episode possible. Catch Jarlath on tour or buy his brand new book "The Gobshite Guidebook" at www.jigser.com 

Marion McKeone sits down face to face with Jarlath in front of packed podcast stage crowd at Electric Picnic in Stradbally country Laois to discuss where this dark chapter in American history is headed. How bad is it right now and how bad could it get? Marion explains some of the more shocking aspects of the most recent developments in US politics and takes questions from the listeners. Is Gavin Newsom America's best hope or a flash in the pan? Thanks to Naoise Nunn and his team at Mindfield for making this episode possible. Catch Jarlath on tour or buy his brand new book "The Gobshite Guidebook" at www.jigser.com 

Doireann O'Connor (33) from Laois is an aspiring actor, singer and presenter who blew up on social media in recent months. When Doireann returned to Ireland from traveling, with a new lease of life, she feels that everyone should follow their dreams because at the end of the day, "Nothing matters and nobody cares". Doireann is a breath of fresh air on social media and regularly films videos in her car. A recent series of videos called "Dating With Doireann" is very popular where she interviews single people and tries to find a match. The real star of the show on her social media is her awesome Dad who she refers to as her "ultimate ride or die". Please sign up to my Patreon for weekly bonus episodes: www.patreon.com/BigNewsComingSoon Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Helen Lawlor, nurse and mother of 4 from Laois, discusses her participation on the 'The Global Sumud Flotilla' mission heading for Gaza.

Evelyn O'Rourke, Arts and Media Correspondent reports from Stradbally as Electric Picnic gets underway.

Over the past few weeks, Kildare Wildlife Rescue has been working to rehabilitate swans whose habitats were damaged by multiple oil spills last month in Laois and Dublin. Today, it is hoped that the first of the swans will be released back to their home. We are joined by Pearse Stokes, Rescue Co-Cordinator with Kildare Wildlife Rescue.

Katelyn Cummins, the Laois Rose on winning The Rose of Tralee 2025

Hear from Laois joint-managers Pat Collier & Robert Jones as well as losing Armagh boss PJ Mullan as Rachel Sheehan brings you all of the reaction from Croke Park where Laois were crowned All-Ireland Junior Camogie Champions, defeating Armagh 2-15 to 0-12 at Croke Park.SUBSCRIBE at OffTheBall.com/join

Welcome to the Final Whistle on Off The Ball.Here is your one-stop shop for all the weekend's biggest GAA voices in one podcast.David Wilson brings you through the entirety of the biggest day in the camogie calendar, as we get reaction to Galway's win in the Glen Dimplex Senior All-Ireland Final, plus reaction to Offaly's win in the Intermediate decider and Laois' win in the Premier Junior showpiece.Become a member at offtheball.com/subscribe

Up for the MatchOff on Sunday morning to Croke Park. Dark skies. Lots of grey clouds. Our journey was delayed by Féile An Phobail's 5km and 10km run. Diverted and distracted we eventually got out of West Belfast and on the road to Dublin. Enroute the dark skies lightened. The grey clouds gave way to blue heavens and gentle sunshine. We were off to watch Antrim's Lady Footballers in our own All Ireland against Louth. As we crossed the Border KneeCap kept our spirits high. Their ceol blasted out and the car rocked as we hip hopped to the Capital. A morning after the night before follow-on from Saturday evening's Falls Park Country frolicks.The match in Croker started off positively with Antrim taking an early lead but Louth soon asserted themselves and Antrim was chasing the game from then until the last ten minutes. Some of the players may have been overwhelmed by the big occasion.  If so who could blame them? To play in Croke is mighty and Antrim supporters were out in strength. Everyone, including us, as proud as could be.  Family members, club mates. The number of Northern Gaels was swelled by Tyrone supporters who later went on to win their championship against Laois. Dublin went on to best Meath in the Seniors. A great day of Gaelic football.Gaza – An Gorta Mór – The StarvationThe scenes of desperation as starving people in Gaza try to get basins or pots filled with soup, are shocking images. It is a famine we are told. Last week the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a United Nations panel which had long warned of the threat of famine, concluded that it was now a reality.The use of the word ‘famine' and the images of starving children are a reminder for many in Ireland of what life must have been like during An Gorta Mór in the 1840s. But it is important to note that in a famine there is no food. In Ireland there was plenty of food. During those years the quaysides of ports along our coast were lined each day with abundant produce - all bound for export. It was a starvation.The hunger in Gaza is an Israeli made starvation. Aid agencies and the UN have more than enough food and medical aid ready to enter Gaza. Israel prevents this. It is not a famine – it is a starvationOrangism in the New IrelandThe northern statelet was built for unionism. It was constructed and then managed in a way to ensure that nationalists would never have a say in running the place.We are less than three years off the 30th anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement. Most citizens, and many within the broad unionist section of our people, have grown accustomed to the stability and peace it has brought but there are others who still hanker after the old days of supremacy. The DUP shares the office of the First Minister with Sinn Féin but their strategy is focused on the next Assembly election in two years' time and their aim is to remove Michelle O'Neill as First Minister. That is why there is a battle a day over Irish language rights. That is why there has been no start on building the new Casement. That is why there is negative nonsense over bi-lingual signage in public places.

Reaction from Croke Park where Tyrone have defeated Laois to win the Intermediate All Ireland. Scarlett Herron and Stephen Gleeson speak to the victors.

Orlaith Duff (ex-Meath), Fabienne Cooney (ex-Galway) and Nadine Doherty (ex-Donegal) are all in studio to preview Sunday's Ladies Football Finals between Antrim v Louth, Laois v Tyrone, and Dublin v Meath in the Senior Championship at Croke Park.

Former Dublin ‘keeper Ciara Trant joins Ger Gilroy and Colm Boohig ahead of this weekend's Ladies Football Finals at Croke Park on Sunday where Antrim face Louth in the Junior final, Laois take on Tyrone in the Intermediate and Dublin face off against Meath in the Senior Ladies Football Championship.OTB Breakfast w/ UPMC #GetBackInAction

Laois captain Andrea Moran and Tyrone skipper Aoibhinn McHugh sat down with Off The Ball's Scarlett Herron ahead of their meeting in the All Ireland Intermediate Ladies Final on Sunday at Croke Park.Become a member and subscribe at offtheball.com/join

Listener Menopause Exercise Question: Are You Exercising Too Much, Too Little, or Just Right?”   Recently, a listener asked a menopause exercise question, "I'm doing strength training three times a week for 30 minutes. Is that too much? If you have wondered, or wonder what is enough, too much or the Goldilocks for you, this is for you.   Based on a study in Ireland called Menowell (not to be confused with the bars), almost 70% of us get our information from friends and 50% get information from social media. So, beware. Even researchers right now are spending a lot of time and energy getting eyeballs and making shocking statements. Instead of merely sharing the facts, they're being as inflammatory as the influencers they claim not to be.    Quick Overview: Menopause can bring bone loss, muscle loss, metabolic changes, mood shifts & symptoms like hot flashes and sleep troubles. Promise: By the end, you'll know how to calibrate exercise for maximum benefit and minimal burnout, even if you're not experiencing any of these.    Why exercise is non-negotiable? Exercise is medicine.  Muscle is medicine and an endocrine organ.  Muscle is HRT if you allow it to be.  Like any other medicine, the right dose and timing are crucial.    How much is too little? I could answer in a very generic way: Minimum WHO/HHS guidelines:  150 min moderate aerobic + 2 strength sessions weekly  Under 150 min weekly leads to missed benefits like bone density maintenance and cardiometabolic protection   This is not a generic podcast and you're not a generic woman.  So, let's answer with the uniqueness you deserve. Whether you're exercising too little or too much your body leaves both objective and subjective data.    Red flags of Undertraining and Overtraining: Persistent fatigue Ongoing symptoms Plateau in strength/mood/weight.   More Answers to Your Menopause Exercise Questions   When exercise becomes too much: Excessive high-intensity sessions >3× weekly without recovery ups injury risk—especially for connective tissue for women in midlife.  Overtraining stress can aggravate symptoms, disturb sleep, mood, and adrenal health, appetite/cravings and libido.    Finding the sweet spot: Measure muscle and body fat (See Resources for my smart scale picks.)  Measure waist girth  Measure bone density through Dexa scan    Do-It-Yourself checklist: Track energy, sleep, mood, focus, libido, digestion, elimination (See Resources for Flipping50 Progress Tracker)  Between your objective and subjective measures, are you getting what you want? Not just immediate but long term?    References:  Cooper, D., Ward, K., Kavanagh, R. and O'Connor, S. (2023) ‘‘MenoWell': A pilot 6-week novel, online, multimodal exercise and health education programme for women in all stages of menopause living in Laois, Ireland', Physical Activity and Health, 7(1), p. 303–318.   Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Essential Oils for Menopause Hormones | Essential How-to for Essential Oils Next Episode - Simple Ways to Know if You're Following Protein Rules in Menopause More Like This - Exercise and Hot Flashes and Other Menopause Symptoms   Resources:  Join the Flipping50 Membership for evidence-based workout programs. Opening soon! Save your spot! Monitor your progress with Flipping50 Progress Tracker. Try OneSkin for SPF on face, lips and body. My top picks for 2025 Smart Scale Picks for Body Composition. Don't know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra. Join the Flipping50 Insiders Facebook Group and connect with Debra and the community.