Podcast appearances and mentions of Shannon Airport

Shannon Chamber is calling on the Government to make a series of major investments in Budget 2027, arguing that strategic funding for Shannon and the wider Mid-West will strengthen Ireland's competitiveness, create jobs and support long-term economic growth.   Its pre-budget submission includes proposals for investment in Shannon Airport, transport infrastructure, housing, skills development, renewable energy and the regeneration of Shannon Town.   Joining Alan Morrissey to discuss the Chamber's priorities and why it believes these projects are crucial for both the region and the country was Helen Downes, CEO of Shannon Chamber. Photo (c) kanchanachitkhamma via Canva

 - of Kilkishen Development committee talking about disappointment with delay in trying to deal with speeding issues in Kilkishen and also discusses housing problems.  Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures lounge of Shannon Airport  as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

 Chair of Sixmilebridge Historical society talking about recent activities, upcoming talks and news on a special event taking place in September as a plaque will be unveiled to honour Donogh O'Malley, Irish Politician who died in Sixmilebridge in 1968 Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures lounge of Shannon Airport  as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

is the recently appointed Chair of the Shannon Municipal District and spoke to Pat and Stephen about developments including the first official Dog park in Clare as well as looking at the needs of the town to help it develop further. Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures lounge of Shannon Airport  as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

for Clare for FF party  joined Pat, Stephen and Fiona to talk about matters concerning Co Clare including developments at Shannon Airport, future plans as well as a discussion on general funding. Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures lounge of Shannon Airport  as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

A €50 million investment in Shannon Airport is being welcomed as a "powerful endorsement" of the facility. Ryanair has submitted a planning application for a four-bay aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul hanger at the Clare base. The plans also include a new Ryanair Engineering Academy which will see the creation 80 new apprenticeship roles, supporting the training of over 400 aircraft mechanisms between 2027 and 2031. Shannon Airport Group CEO Ray O'Driscoll believes it's a win for the entire region.

A Clare TD claims it's "inevitable" that Ryanair's €50 million investment in Shannon Airport will result in new routes in the near future. The Irish airline has stated its intention to build an aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul hangar along with a training facility for aircraft mechanics at the Clare base. The announcement has been welcomed as a "powerful endorsement" by the Shannon Airport Group. As part of its planning application for a four-bay aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul hangar at Shannon, the airline is seeking to build a new Ryanair Engineering Academy. This will see the creation of 80 new apprenticeship roles, supporting the training of over 400 additional aircraft mechanics between 2027 and 2031. The three-bay aircraft maintenance hangar currently operated by Ryanair at the airport supports over 200 jobs. Shannon Airport Group CEO Ray O'Driscoll says while the investment doesn't necessarily mean more flights in and out of the airport, they're always working to achieve more growth. Pending planning approval, construction is expected to begin early next year, with the facility expected to be operational in late 2028. Chairperson of the Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group and Fianna Fáil aviation spokesperson, Meelick TD Cathal Crowe, believes it will make financial sense for Ryanair to add more routes once the hangar is up and running.

of Scariff Bay Community Radio talking about a successful night for our station at the recent Craol awards which were held in Athlone on Thursday night with three Golds and a standout submission award won on the night.  Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures area of Shannon Airport as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com

Airport Director at Shannon since 2022 joined Pat and Stephen on the phone. Niall is responsible for all operational activity at Shannon Airport and amongst the topics spoken about in a  wide ranging interview , matters highlighted included a number of recent developments at the airport including new routes, on site developments, solar farm and future plans.  Originally broadcast  live from  the Departures lounge of Shannon Airport  as part of Saturday Chronicle 18th July 2026 hosted by Pat O'Brien, Stephen Minogue and Fiona Levie. Our thanks to the Communications team at Shannon Airport. https://www.snnairportgroup.ie Saturday Chronicle is Sponsored by JAMES M NASH AND DERG KITCHEN DESIGN http://dergkitchendesign.ie Message or what's app the studio on 089 2582647 or email sbcrstudio@gmail.com    

One of the highest honours in search and rescue has been awarded to a member of the Rescue 115 crew based at Shannon Airport. Winch paramedic Jim O'Neill has been named the 2026 recipient of the Billy Deacon Award, recognising his exceptional bravery during the rescue of all 14 crew members from a fishing vessel that ran aground in treacherous conditions at the entrance to Dingle Harbour last December. Jim was presented with the award at a ceremony in the Houses of Parliament in London, and he joined Alan Morrissey to talk about that dramatic rescue and what the recognition means to him. Photo (c) Clare FM

The Transport Minister is being urged to develop a review to maximise the use of Shannon Airport. It follows a Seanad Debate on the Dublin Passenger Cap Bill, which if passed would lift the restriction limiting the airport to 32 million flyers per year. Last year, Dublin Airport accounted for 85% of Irish Passenger Traffic, while Shannon accepted just over 2 million passengers. Senator Aubrey McCarthy has told the Seanad that balance is needed.

It's hoped newly planned security measures for Shannon Airport can free up Garda availability across Clare. The Clare base received €1.9m in funding earlier this year, with much of this due to go towards the construction of an Airfield Security Perimeter fence. There have been five alleged incursions by activists since March 2024 and the Airport is now also planning to install high security anti-ram barriers to prevent vehicles from entering. Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman says the incidents have affected Garda resources in the past.

Shannon has long been known as a welcoming and diverse town, and that community spirit was on full display recently when members of the local Filipino community rolled up their sleeves to give something back.   Forty-two volunteers joined Shannon Tidy Towns for a clean-up and weeding project along the road from Ballycasey Roundabout towards Shannon Airport, as a way of thanking the town for the welcome, employment opportunities and new lives they've found here.  Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to tell us more were the Chair of Shannon Tidy Towns, Derek Clune, along with Paz Maglague, a member of Shannon's Filipino community who took part in the initiative. Photo (c) Shannon Tidy Towns via Facebook

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.

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.

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.

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.

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".

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.

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

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.

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".