Podcast appearances and mentions of Shannon Airport

On tonight's panel we had Sean Fleming, Fianna Fail TD for Laois, Lynn Boylan, Sinn Fein MEP for Dublin, Patricia Stephenson, Social Democrats Senator and their spokesperson on Foreign Affairs along with Aisling Moloney, political correspondent, Irish Independent.

There's a push to give the Government greater powers to prevent munitions from being flown through Shannon Airport. The Social Democrats have introduced a bill that would extend what qualifies as a State aircraft by including aircraft operating as custom flights. It follows reports of chartered flights assisting with ICE deportations in the US passing through the Clare base. Speaking in the Seanad, Social Democrats Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Senator Patricia Stephenson, believes the proposed legislation would put an end to ICE flights coming through Shannon.

A Clare TD is arguing there's a "moral obligation" to dezone lands near wind turbines from wind energy. It follows An Coimisiún Pleanála's decision earlier this month to refuse planning permission for a 50-megawatt wind farm in Ballycar in East Clare. Outling its decision, the planning authority said it wasn't satisfied measures could be implemented to mitigate aviation safety risks for Shannon Airport and AirNav Ireland. Addressing the Taoiseach in the Dáil, Meelick Fianna Fáil Deputy Cathal Crowe says the proposed development would've negatively affected radar infrastructure.

Gardaí are advising Clare road users to exercise caution amid reports of melted tarmac in parts of the country. Difficult driving conditions have been observed on this county's roads network due to the high temperatures this week. The record for the month of May in Ireland was broken at Shannon Airport once again yesterday, where the mercury hit 30.5 degrees Celsius. A Status Yellow high temperature warning remains in place for eight counties including Clare until 6pm this evening. Superintendent in the Clare/Tipperary Garda Division, Eddie Golden is advising motorists to reduce speed to maintain control on the roads. He says secondary routes could be particularly treacherous.

The provisional May temperature record has been broken again yesterday, with 30.5C at Shannon Airport in Co Clare, marking the first time 30C was exceeded in May. But what can we expect weather wise today? To tell us all was Andrew Doran Sherlock, MET Eireann Forecaster.

The provisional May temperature record has been broken again yesterday, with 30.5C at Shannon Airport in Co Clare, marking the first time 30C was exceeded in May. But what can we expect weather wise today? To tell us all was Andrew Doran Sherlock, MET Eireann Forecaster.

Eight awards were presented to winners aged from 13 to 19 years at a special event held yon Tuesday 19th at the Hotel Woodstock in Ennis, in recognition of the young people's bravery, determination and positive impact. This year's Awards celebrated an impressive cross‑section of young people and youth‑led initiatives across County Clare. To find out more, Daragh Dolan was joined on the line by the Sponsor of the Awards, Shannon Airport's Director, Niall Kearns. We were also joined by some of the winners, including Caoimhe Moroney, Sarah Bermingham, and Lexi Reidy, who spoke about their achievements. Pictured Back (L-R): Superintendent John Ryan, Cillian Grimes McDonagh (East Clare UBU Youth Group), Sam O'Dwyer, Caoimhe Moroney, Tristan Murphy (East Clare UBU Youth Group), Niall Kearns, Airport Director of Shannon Airport. Front (L-R): Isabella Sydney, Sarah Bermingham and Lexi Reidy (Escape the Vape School Ambassadors), Niamh McManus (Clare Comhairle na nOg), Mayar Jadalla, Joe Slattery. Image (c) Arthur Ellis

On this week's Atlantic Tales, Pat Flynn visits Foynes Flying Boat and Maritime Museum located in Foynes, Co Limerick. The museum tells the story of the journey from the first flying boats at Foynes Airport, or Shannon Airport Foynes as it was known, to the new airfield at Rineanna later to become the Shannon Airport we know today.

Join the team for a look at the latest aviation news from around the world and across the UK.  In this week's news, An investigation is currently under way after Icelandair 757's unauthorised low-level flight; Passengers describe EU border 'nightmare'; and the First Qantas A350 for Project Sunrise rolls out of the Airbus factory in France.    And in the military, We look at reports of a US C-130 Hercules that was Targeted in a Violent Attack at Shannon Airport. We will also have Armando's regular review of the aircraft activity and operations in the US/Iran war. We'll also have our regular update on our 600th show which will be on Friday 22nd May. Remember that we're going live at 7pm UK time (1800UTC) and that daylight savings has gone into effect in the UK.  You can get in touch with us all at : WhatsApp +447446975214 Email podcast@planetalkinguk.com or comment in our chatroom on YouTube.

A peaceful remembrance is being planned at Shannon Airport this weekend to honour the life of Hind Rajab, a young girl killed in Gaza in 2024, on what would have been her eighth birthday. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Martin Roper who is working with the Shannon Sunday Peace Vigil group.

Shannon Airport has received a major funding boost. The Clare base has been allocated €1.93m under the 2026 Regional Airports Programme. The funds will go towards a new fire appliance and the construction of a new Airfield Security Perimeter Fence. Clare based Minister of State Timmy Dooley says it will allow the airport to focus more of its coffers on promotion.

Confidence is being expressed that the new Shannon Airport Group CEO's deep understanding of the MidWest will drive growth at the Clare base. It comes as Ray O'Driscoll has been confirmed as the new Chief Executive Officer of SAG, having served as interim CEO for the past seven months. Shannon Airport recorded a turnover in excess of €78m last year, while welcoming over 2.3 million passengers in the process. Shannon Chamber President Mark Nolan has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that he believes the new appointment will bring even further success.

New figures obtained by The Irish Times has shown that the number of United States troops travelling through Shannon Airport increased by almost 80% before and during the US' attacks on Iran.Conor Gallagher, Crime & Security Correspondent with the Irish Times, joins Matt to explain the significance of the situation.Hit the ‘Play' button on this page to hear the piece.

Shannon Airport is investing €40 million across its operations this year. The Clare base is seeking to upgrade its immigration area and baggage hall as well as deliver enhancements to taxiway infrastructure and carry out a "facelift" to the outside of the terminal building. The facility's 2025 annual report reveals it generated €78.4 million in turnover last year, resulting in €30.5 million profit. Shannon Airport Group Interim CEO Ray O'Driscoll says the improvements will support jobs and future growth in the region.

Calls are being made for an urgent enforcement campaign at Shannon Airport to ensure the US military is not violating international law at the Clare base. New figures show there's been an 80% increase in US troops transiting through Shannon since the onset of the Iran War. In March, 3,604 troops travelled through Shannon, according to The Irish Times. Shannonwatch Co-Founder Edward Horgan has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that he believes Ireland is complicit in war crimes in the Middle East.

This May, 13 members of the Sea of Change choir will spend five days walking a Camino in Portugal. The choir, which is based in Dublin, is made up of cancer survivors and supporters. Formed in 2018, they have performed at venues across the country, at Electric Picnic, and have even featured on Britain's Got Talent. Ahead of their departure early next month, two choir members, Terry Kinane and Miriam Payne, joined Róisín Ingle on the podcast to discuss their preparations for the 120km walk. Kinane, who will be leading the group of women on the walk, shares her Camino expertise, while Payne, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2016, explains what this achievement will mean to her.But first, freelance journalist Kate Lynch is here to discuss some of the biggest stories of the week, including the publication of the 1926 census, a new report detailing the barriers some women face in accessing free contraception, and why 91-year-old Leila Doolan walked from Shannon Airport to Leinster House this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to chat about some of the great destinations Irish holidaymakers can fly to from Shannon Airport.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Join the team for a look at the latest aviation news from around the world and across the UK.  It's a .5 show to make up a few episodes towards our 600th but who's really counting? In this week's show: An investigation is currently under way after Icelandair 757's unauthorised low-level flight; Passengers describe EU border 'nightmare'; and the First Qantas A350 for Project Sunrise rolls out of the Airbus factory in France.    In the military:  We look at reports of a US C-130 Hercules that was Targeted in a Violent Attack at Shannon Airport. We will also have Armando's regular review of the aircraft activity and operations in the US/Iran war. We'll also have our regular update on our 600th show which will be on Friday 22nd May. Remember that we're going live at 7pm UK time (1800UTC) and that daylight savings has gone into effect in the UK.  You can get in touch with us all at : WhatsApp +447446975214 Email podcast@planetalkinguk.com or comment in our chatroom on YouTube.

Reporter, Sheila Naughton speaks to Lelia Doolan, film producer. who is completing a 220km walk in protest against the use of Shannon airport by the US Military.

The deployment of state-of-the-art vehicle-moving technology at Shannon Airport is being hailed as a "huge move forward" for safety at the facility. The Clare base has become the first airport in Ireland to have a First-Mover R-3500 electric vehicle-moving system. The device will allow the airport, 50% of the fleet of which is now electrified, to move electric vehicles in the event that they break down or go on fire. Deputy Chief Officer of Shannon's Airport Police Fire Service, Mark Browne, says it'll allow staff to relocate EVs without creating an unnecessary fire hazard.

Rebecca O'Keeffe of Irish Sport for Palestine breaks down why Israel should long ago have been barred from international sport – and why it still hasn't happened.A podcast from The Ditch, ontheditch.com – hosted by Niamh Ní Bhriain and Harry Browne, with Roman Shortall of The Ditch'Ag insint bréaga: taoiseach lied to journalists about armed US soldiers at Shannon Airport': https://www.ontheditch.com/ag-insint-breaga-taoiseach/Rebecca in Al Jazeera: https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2026/2/22/uefa-and-fifa-may-get-a-red-card-at-the-icc-for-ignoring-israeli-violationsIrish Sport for Palestine: https://www.instagram.com/irishsportforpalestine/'Ireland's neutrality a "difficult path" to follow, senior official says': https://tinyurl.com/35xmn56aMusic: Fionn DempseyAudio & Video: Emmet White, Macro AVEditing: Emmet White, Macro AVEmail theditchpartyline at gmailontheditch.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shannonwatch claims there's a direct threat posed to Shannon Airport by the US military's continued use of the base. The activist group is calling on the Irish Government to follow in the footsteps of their Spanish, French and Italian counterparts by restricting the US's access to airspace and bases. According to the group, two flights associated with the United States Armed Forces landed at Shannon on Tuesday alone, with a further five passing through Irish airspace on the same day. Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan continuing the relationship puts Shannon at risk of attack from enemies of the Trump administration.

Just after Easter, Jody is heading back to Ireland—and this trip is filled with experiences, stays, and a few surprises that might inspire your own plans. Ireland trip preview: tours, experiences, and places to stay This upcoming visit blends guided tours, hands-on experiences, and independent exploring across Ireland—from the Causeway Coast to the southeast, with plenty of memorable stops along the way. Giants Causeway from the cliff walk above This article is also available as the Traveling in Ireland podcast, episode 333. Use the player below to listen or scroll to continue reading the article and get resource links. Flying into Shannon: what to know Jody is flying into Shannon Airport, a favorite for its easy access to western Ireland. While direct routes can be limited outside peak season, arriving here puts travelers close to highlights like Bunratty Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, and the Wild Atlantic Way. Travel tip: When possible, choose a direct flight into Ireland or a layover in your departure country for a smoother arrival experience. Northern Ireland and Donegal: a scenic adventure One portion of the trip heads north, covering: The Causeway Coast, home to dramatic cliffs and the famous Giant's Causeway The Inishowen Peninsula in Donegal, known for rugged beauty and quieter roads The Boyne Valley, rich in history and ancient sites A stay at Cabra Castle for a memorable castle experience This route is ideal for travelers who want a mix of scenery, history, and unique accommodations. See the Giant Adventure itinerary Southeast Ireland: crafts, culture, and hands-on fun Another part of the journey focuses on the southeast, with interactive experiences like: Crafting Claddagh rings Food tours featuring local flavors Puffin spotting on the Saltee Islands Falconry in Adare A visit to The Donkey Sanctuary in Cork This region is often overlooked, but places like Wexford offer a quieter, more local feel with plenty to see and do. See the Craft, Culture & Craic itinerary Returning favorites worth revisiting Even seasoned travelers return to places they love—and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park is one of those spots (I haven't wandered these grounds on my own since 2002!). Located near Shannon, Bunratty offers: A restored castle you can explore A folk park that recreates village life from the past Seasonal events and demonstrations It's especially good for families or anyone wanting an immersive look at Irish history. Cliffs of Moher updates and what to expect Work has been ongoing to improve safety along the cliff top trails around the Cliffs of Moher. Travelers planning a visit should check current access updates, as sections of the cliff walk have been closed during improvements. Note: the Cliffs of Moher site and visitors centre are not closed! The works are on the miles of walking trails along the cliff from Doolin to Hags Head. Unique places to stay across Ireland This trip includes a mix of new and noteworthy accommodations: Barnahown (County Cork): A B&B at the base of the Galtee Mountains Killiane Castle Country House & Farm (Wexford): A charming stay in a lesser-visited county The Grace (Westport Estate, Mayo): A newly opened accommodation with estate access Glamping on Inis Mór (Aran Islands): Beachside pods with easy access to island cycling and coastal views These options highlight the variety of stays available, from traditional to unique. Island time and coastal experiences Ireland's islands offer a different pace—and this trip includes a few standout options: Inis Mór: Explore by bike, enjoy coastal scenery, and slow down Clare Island (Mayo): A great day trip with history and views Saltee Islands: Known for seabirds, including puffins Ferries can be weather-dependent, so flexibility is key when planning island visits. New experiences to try in Ireland Adding hands-on and memorable activities can make a trip stand out. A few ideas from this trip include: Chocolate making on the Causeway Coast Falconry experiences (hawk walks) Wildlife spotting, including puffins Farm and animal visits for a more local connection These experiences are ideal for travelers who want more than sightseeing. Highlights to inspire your own trip Mix regions: combine north, west, and southeast for variety Add hands-on activities for memorable moments Choose accommodations that enhance the experience Include at least one island visit Revisit iconic sites—you'll see them differently each time If you're planning your own journey, tools like the Ireland Travel Compass can help you take ideas like these and turn them into a trip that fits your time, interests, and travel style. And if you'd like to follow along as this trip unfolds, you'll find updates, stories, and a few behind-the-scenes moments shared on Facebook and Instagram, as well as in the weekly email (sign up below). The post A Look Ahead to My Ireland Trip: Tours, Experiences & Stays to Inspire You appeared first on Ireland Family Vacations.

Imagine setting out on a 200-kilometre walk across Ireland at the age of 91 — not for fitness, but for peace, protest, and principle. That's exactly what Lelia Doolan is doing this Easter, as she walks from Shannon Airport all the way to Dáil Éireann, calling on the government to act on neutrality, human rights, and the use of Shannon by the US military. Leila joined Alan Morrissey on Morning Focus to tell us more. Image © walkwithlelia via Instagram

 On Today's Galway Talks With John Morley... Tributes flow in following the passing of Former RTÉ Sport broadcaster and Galway legend Michael Lyster   Lelia Doolan to walk from Shannon Airport to Dáil in protest  Tuam Councillor issues a 11811 warning after constituent gets stung for nearly 200 euro  Construction body warns of 'deeply alarming' fuel rises  MEP calls for swift implementation of the governments National Drugs Strategy following rise of substance use in communities  County Council housing waiting list in Connemara down by 8% over the past year  A cookery Demonstration will be held with a celeb chef to raise funds for the Irish Workhouse Centre – Portumna  And in Sport... Galway down the Dubs to retain Division One status  

People across Clare are being encouraged to nominate young people for the Garda Youth Awards, which celebrate acts of courage, leadership, and goodwill. The awards, held in conjunction with Shannon Airport, are open to young people aged 13-21 who either live or go to school in Clare. The closing date for nominations is next Friday March 27th and winners will also be put forward for the national awards ceremony. Inspector Helen Costello, who's based at Ennis Garda Station emphasises the importance of recognising the resilience and positive contributions of young people in the community.

Shannon Airport is remaining hopeful its planned improvements will result in new routes from the facility in the near future. The Clare base has been included in the €45 million Regional Airports Programme for 2026 to 2030 which will assist it with its €15 million upgrade of its airport terminal. The facility is set to see 40,000 passengers fly through it across the St Patrick's Day period, marking a 7% increase on last year. Shannon Airport Director Niall Kearns says every upgrade that takes place makes it more attractive to airlines.

Shannon Airport's Departures Hall is set to be transformed once again this week as it hosts the Explore Engineering Showcase for the fifth consecutive year. Taking place this Thursday (5th March), the event will bring together around 2,000 senior-cycle students, along with parents, teachers and guidance counsellors, to meet more than 60 engineering companies from across the Mid-West. Now in its eleventh year, the showcase is all about connecting young people with real-world opportunities — from apprenticeships and further education to third-level pathways — and giving them a hands-on look at the innovation happening right on their doorstep. To tell us more on Tuesday's Morning Focus about what students can expect, Alan Morrissey was joined by David Purcell, Technical Support Leader at Lufthansa Technik, one of the key engineering employers in the region, and Eimear Brophy, Manager of Further Education and Training at Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board and Chairperson of Explore Engineering. Photo (c) Shannon Airport

It's hoped a new funding announcement for Shannon Airport will result in more flight routes for the facility and fewer people travelling to Dublin to fly. The Clare base has been included in the €45 million Regional Airports Programme for 2026 to 2030 which has been broadened to cover airports with up to three million passengers annually. It mean Shannon along with those in Knock, Kerry and Donegal will be able to avail of crucial state funding intended to ensure the viability of smaller airports. Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons Shannon's offering is "second to none".

There has been a push by locals for development of The Point in Shannon — a scenic spot on the Shannon Estuary that many locals feel deserves more recognition. A Shannon resident has suggested turning it into a much-loved walking and cycling link from Shannon Airport to Bunratty Bridge, something that could rival the Greenways seen around Ireland and help open up this beautiful part of Clare to residents and visitors alike. Alan Morrissey spoke with Blaise Phelan, who sparked the conversation, and Cllr Tony Mulcahy, Shannon Fine Gael councillor to discuss the idea. Image © Vic O via TripAdvisor

A small detail on an official document has sparked a wider question about identity and geography in the Mid-West. Pádraig Langsch from Shannon took to social media after his mother's renewed driver's licence listed her address as “Tullyvarraga, Shannon, Limerick.” Now, we've all noticed over the years the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa listed as being in “Limerick,” despite actually being located in Clare. Meanwhile, parts of UL straddle the border, and even Shannon Airport has incorrectly been referred to as being in the Limerick. Pádraig joined Alan Morrissey to discuss this further.

Clare's Minister of State insists neither the Government nor Shannon Airport is "playing a role" in the deportation of people detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the US. Six flights chartered by ICE have refuelled at Shannon Airport since Donald Trump took office a year ago, with the latest stopping at the Clare base on Wednesday night. A recent investigation found that ICE used a private plane owned by a business associate of Donald Trump to deport eight Palestinian men who were "shackled" at the whists and ankles as they were flown through Shannon on the way to Tel Aviv from Arizona. Under international law, private aircraft and commercial charters don't have to seek authorisation from the Department of Transport for technical stops, and Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley says this means the law has been adhered to in these instances.

For the fifth consecutive year, the Departures Hall of Shannon Airport will be transformed to host the highly anticipated Explore Engineering Showcase 2026 on Thursday, 5th March. This inspiring event brings together 2,000 senior-cycle secondary school students, teachers, their parents, professionals, and industry leaders for a dynamic celebration of engineering excellence and innovation. Established in 2015, this annual event provides a unique platform for students and emerging engineers to speak directly with over 60 engineering companies in the Mid-West and gain insights into the latest technological advancements. Key educational institutions from across the Mid-West will come together to showcase the diverse pathways open to students, from apprenticeships and training bodies to third-level programmes, for students, parents, guidance counsellors, and teachers. Speaking today, Eimear Brophy, Chairperson of Explore Engineering, said: "The Explore Engineering Showcase is about inspiring future engineers and connecting them with real training and career opportunities close to home. We invite students, their parents, and educators to join us in Shannon Airport as we showcase the very best of what the Mid-West region has to offer the future of engineering talent." Commenting on the event, Ray O'Driscoll, Interim CEO of The Shannon Airport Group, said: "It's a real honour for us to host the Explore Engineering Showcase in Shannon Airport. Engineering and aviation go hand in hand, and several of the companies participating are an integral part of the Shannon Airport Business Park, where innovation and creativity thrive. It's wonderful to see the curiosity and passion for engineering this event helps to ignite in students – future talent who will undoubtedly play an important role in our business and the wider region in the years ahead." Attendees will have the opportunity to explore interactive exhibits, witness live demonstrations, and participate in hands-on activities designed to spark creativity and problem-solving skills. The Explore Engineering Showcase takes place in the Departures Hall of Shannon Airport on Thursday, 5th March 2026. Admission and parking are free. Pre-registration is not required. Doors open from 5 pm. For more details, please contact Fiona Murphy at Fiona.burke.murphy@outlook.com or visit www.explore-engineering.ie.

The Government is facing pressure to produce a progress report for the Shannon Rail Link. Despite being included as an end of the decade objective in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review, no funding has been allocated by the Department of Transport for it this year. The proposed infrastructure would see Shannon Airport connected to the railway network at either Sixmilebridge or Cratloe. Shannon Banks Sinn Féin Councillor James Ryan says real commitment is needed.

If you're flying between Shannon and the UK, there's an important change you need to know about. From the 25th of February, Aer Lingus passengers will need a passport or Irish passport card to travel on these routes, with new requirements also affecting some non-Irish and non-British nationals. To explain what this means for travellers, Alan Morrissey was joined in studio by Gearoid Mannion, Travel Counsellor in Ennis. Image (c) Shannon Group

An organisation set up to monitor the US military's use of Shannon Airport says it's "appalled" by reports of flights carrying Palestinian natives being deported from the US passing through the Clare base.A joint investigation by The Guardian newspaper and +972 Magazine has found that two flights carrying eight Palestinian men detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement stopped at Shannon en route to Tel Aviv from Arizona .According to the reports, a private plane owned by an Israeli-American property tycoon was used for the flights where the men had their "wrists and ankles shackled".Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the Irish Government must take steps to ensure it doesn't happen again.

A Clare TD claims the approval of plans to install a wind-farm nearby to Shannon Airport would 'underwrite the safety of air passengers'. Ballycar Green Energy submitted plans to construct 12 turbines of up 150 metres in height near Meelick which it's claimed would 'play a central role in Ireland's transition to a low-carbon economy by 2050'. Objections at an oral hearing held by An Coimisiún Pleanala heard AirNav Ireland's Manager of Surveillance systems, Charlie O'Loughlin, state radar at Shannon Aiport would detect all bar one of the turbines as false aircraft targets. Local Fianna Fáil Deputy, Cathal Crowe, says there's no room for uncertainty when aviation safety is at risk.

A former flight attendant who posed as a pilot to get hundreds of free flights and why did Air Force one stop in Shannon airport. All to discuss with Kevin Byrne, Retired Lieutenant Colonel and Airport Safety and Security Expert.

Clare's Minister of State claims it's "unnecessary" for the Government to discuss banning the US military from using Shannon Airport at this time. The Labour Party called for the measure in light of the US President's recent rhetoric around acquiring Greenland, but speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Donald Trump has stated he won't take the territory by force. Donald Trump says he's now working on what he's calling an "infinite" deal for Greenland, following discussions with Nato chief Mark Rutte last night. An emergency summit for EU leaders on Greenland will still go ahead today, despite Trump announcing a withdrawal of planned tariffs. Tulla Fianna Fáil Minister of State Timmy Dooley says it's time to "dial down the rhetoric".

The Transport Minister has poured cold water on the prospect of a rail link to Shannon Airport being progressed in the lifetime of this government. Responding to a parliamentary question on its exclusion from the Rail Project Prioritisation Strategy published in December last year, Darragh O'Brien says the project is "intended to be progressed in the longer term". This is despite the rail link being included in the All-Island Strategic Rail Review which was produced in July 2024. Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan says people are growing impatient.

Shannon Airport recorded its highest number of passengers in over a decade in 2025. Over 2.3 million passengers passed through the Clare base last year, representing a 9% increase on 2024 passenger numbers and the highest amount seen in 16 years. Shannon Airport also saw more than €20 million invested in projects during last year, including the launch of Ireland's first airfield solar PV farm, the provision of 1,000 new car park spaces and an expansion of the airport's existing European passenger boarding gates. The Shannon Airport Group says plans are in place for a further €40 million investment this year including a full upgrade of the airport's immigration and baggage halls along with upgraded taxiways Interim CEO of the Shannon Airport Group Ray O'Driscoll says these investments both enhance the passenger experience while helping Shannon hit its sustainability goals.

Shannonwatch is calling on the Irish government to categorically condemn the illegal invasion of Venezuela. The group also wants to see an immediate suspension of the use of Shannon Airport as a transit hub for US troops and their weapons. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Dr Edward Horgan, Shannonwatch Founder. Photo (c) Shannonwatch Facebook

Shannon Airport saw one of its busiest days of the festive period on Friday. Over 8,000 passengers passed through the facility on the day in question, and the airport's management expects to see 125,000 fly through it in the few days before and after Christmas which is up 10% on last year. Those arriving at the Clare base on Friday morning and afternoon were greeted by the talents of musicians, singers and dancers from St Flannan's College in Ennis as they walked through the arrivals gates. Clare FM's Seán Lyons headed to Shannon to meet some of those waiting for their loved ones to come home. Photo (c) Clare FM

Over 8,000 people will pass through Shannon Airport today as the facility welcomes scores home for the festive season. The Christmas spirit is in the air at the facility which is seeing a 10% boost in its passenger numbers this Christmas. It's one of the busiest days of the festive period for the Clare base which is seeing 125,000 come through its gates in the few days before and after Christmas. It marks a 10% increase in Christmas traffic for Shannon which has seen significant growth in the past year. Passengers coming home for Christmas were greeted in the arrivals lounge by the sounds of the St Flannan's College choir.

The Government is being pressed on the timeline for the construction of a Shannon Airport rail link. Speaking at the Clare base recently, Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien said he'd like to see a rail connection at the facility but gave no commitment to funding the project. The project was included in the All Island Strategic Rail Review published last September. Responding to Shannon Sinn Féin TD Donna McGettigan in the Dáil, Finance Minister Jack Chambers says it's up to Minister O'Brien to give updates on the development.

Ryanair says the Government must play ball in order to allow it to expand its operations at Shannon Airport. The budget airline has this week confirmed that it's carried 22 million passengers through the Clare base since it first came to the facility in 1987. The airline will have a fourth based aircraft at Shannon for the first time for summer 2026 as a result of a $400 million investment, with new routes going to Rome, Madrid, Warsaw and Poznan. Ryanair Director of Communications Jade Kirwan says Shannon must be included in the Regional Airports Programme to ensure its growth isn't stifled.

The Minister for Transport claims the Government is "in good shape" regarding the prevention of flooding on a section of the Ennis to Limerick rail line but has given no commitment to funding the project. Responding to a parliamentary question from Meelick Fianna Fáil Deputy Cathal Crowe recently, Darragh O'Brien pledged to engage with the Office of Public Works on reconvening the steering group behind a report on legacy flooding in Ballycar outside Newmarket-on-Fergus. The response also suggested that the project would be included in the NDP Sectoral Investment Plan published last week but this hasn't come to fruition. Speaking at Shannon Airport, Minister O'Brien says funding for projects of this nature will be confirmed in a separate announcement next year.

The Transport Minister has pledged to support Shannon Airport as it strives to expand its offering. The Clare base has celebrated a major milestone with the dual unveiling of Ireland's first airfield-located solar PV farm and an extension to its European Boarding Gates. The projects have come about as a result of a €6.6 million combined investment by the Shannon Airport Group. Speaking at the unveiling, Transport Minister Darragh O'Brien says he appreciates the strategic importance of the Clare facility.

The Irish Government paid almost €1 million over a four-year period to provide security to US military forces at Shannon Airport. Responding to a parliamentary question from Sinn Féin, Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris has admitted the costs of Aid to the Civil Power, or ATCP duties at Shannon Airport, came to over €965,000 between 2018 and 2021. It's understood the costs for these services from 2022 onwards are still being collated and will be released at a later date. Shannonwatch founder Edward Horgan believes the overall costs associated with the US military's use of the facility over the last number of decades are much higher.

This episode was originally published as a Patreon exclusive on 6 Oct 2019In the early hours of the 11th February, 1984, Patrick Nugent died in a car park in front of Bunratty Castle, Co Clare. There had been a party, and Patrick was working in the castle that night. A number of guests were present for the events leading up to Patrick's death, but, none of their stories were consistent with one another. Two guests - off duty gardai - would not speak to the officers who responded to the scene.At a post-mortem it was established that Patrick had been run over by a car, but not before falling to the ground.What happened to Patrick Nugent? Music:Kevin McLeod, Quinns Song : The Dance Begins. (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/Sources:“What Happened in Bunratty?” Episode 29 Scannal (RTE, 26/09/2016) Available here: https://www.rte.ie/player/series/the-scannal-collection/SI0000004189?epguid=IH000338537 The History of Shannon Airport https://www.shannonproperties.ie/shannon-region/the-history-of-shannon-airport/ Bunratty Castle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunratty_Castle www.bunrattycastle.ie Economic History of the Republic of Ireland https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Economic_history_of_the_Republic_of_Ireland#1980_to_early_1990s Derek Dunne, “The Death of Patrick Nugent” from Magill https://magill.ie/archive/death-patrick-nugent (12 June 1985) Simon Carswell, “Who 'clocked' Patrick Nugent? A family still searches for answers” in The Irish Times https://www.irishtimes.com/news/crime-and-law/who-clocked-patrick-nugent-a-family-still-searches-for-answers-1.3107557 (5 June 2017) Dan Danaher, “Patrick Nugent's family secures state inquiry into his death in 1984” in The Irish Examiner https://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/patrick-nugents-family-secures-state-inquiry-into-his-death-in-1984-373317.html (28 December 2015) Dan Danaher, “Family fury over death inquiry delay” in The Clare Champion https://clarechampion.ie/family-fury-over-death-inquiry-delay/ (11 September 2015) Owen Ryan, “Death in Bunratty and the long search for answers” in The Clare Champion https://clarechampion.ie/family-fury-over-death-inquiry-delay/ ( (29 July 2019) http://www.section42inquiries.ie/en/s42i/pages/si1992017 Anne Sheridan, “Suspicious death in Bunratty ow under review 33 years on” in The Limerick Leader https://www.limerickleader.ie/news/home/253965/suspicious-death-in-bunratty-now-under-review-33-years-on.html (8 June 2017) “Nugent case goes to UN Committee” in The Clare Champion http://clarechampion.ie/nugent-case-goes-to-un-committee/ (4 February 2016) Ray Ryan, “'Isn't he the image of Honey Fitz” in The Irish Examiner https://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/isnt-he-the-image-of-honey-fitz-234702.html (21 June 2013) Caroline O'Doherty, “Reviews into Garda malpractice claims are pointless, say victims” in The Irish Examiner https://www.irishexaminer.com/ireland/reviews-into-garda-malpractice-claims-are-pointless-say-victims-378790.html (29 January 2016)