Podcasts about west clare

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

A blood donation clinic is being held in Clare today to ease the strain placed on stocks by the ongoing heatwave. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service is running the clinic in Kilrush Community School from 4:50pm to 8:10pm. The service is inviting its regular donors to make an appointment to donate by calling 1800 222 111. IBTS Donor Recruitment Executive Alex O'Connor says it's a challenging period.

After a break of several years, the Loophead Gathering Festival is making a welcome return to West Clare this summer.     The festival, which celebrates the rich musical traditions and community spirit of the Loop Head Peninsula, will bring together musicians, dancers, families and visitors for a weekend of traditional music, workshops, sessions and local events from the 17th to the 19th of July.     Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to tell us more about the revival of the festival was committee member Margaret Considine. Image (c) Loophead Gathering Festival

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

A West Clare animal sanctuary has been temporarily closed following an outbreak of Panleucopaenia, a highly contagious virus which has claimed the lives of a number of cats and kittens.   An Cat Dubh Sanctuary in Miltown Malbay says it is taking strict measures to contain the disease, while urging cat owners to ensure their pets are vaccinated.   Founder of the sanctuary Dr Rhona Lucas joined Alan Morrissey to talk about the impact of the outbreak, the challenges of managing it, and what happens next for the cats in her care. Photo (c) Joana Baumg via Canva

Clare pet owners are being urged to take proactive measures following an outbreak of a viral disease with a high mortality rate in the West of the county. It comes as an animal shelter in West Clare has been forced to close due to an outbreak of Panleucopaenia. The An Cat Dubh Sanctuary at Cloonlaheen, near Miltown Malbay has confirmed blood tests in the case of a number of deceased cats and kittens has detected the presence of Panleucopaenia. The Shelter has since closed, meaning it can't currently facilitate re-homing requests, admissions or rescues. It's founder Dr Rhona Lucas says they've implemented stringent infection controls in the wake of the incident and are working to determine the origin and extent of the outbreak. She says there's a huge body of work ahead. The airborne disease, which attacks white blood cells, is highly contagious and has a high mortality rate amongst kittens in particular. The symptoms include high fevers, profound lethargy, loss of appetite, severe vomiting and diarrhea. John Garrahy from Treaty Veterinary Clinic in Shannon says the disease can easily spread and is likely circulating in the local environment. He's told Clare FM, however, that hydration and anti-biotics are effective treatments and he's encouraging pet owners to consider a highly effective vaccine.

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

A unique celebration of Irish traditional music, Traveller heritage and living culture is taking place in West Clare this weekend.   The Long Grazing Acre, presented by Paddy Keenan in collaboration with Common Knowledge, will bring together musicians, storytellers and craftspeople for a weekend of performances, workshops and demonstrations.   It celebrates the huge contribution of Irish Travellers to traditional music and culture, and joining Alan Morrissey earlier to discuss the event were Aoife Hammond from Common Knowledge, and internationally renowned uilleann piper Blackie O'Connell. Image (c) Common Knowledge

Miltown Malbay businesses are revelling in a period of economic prosperity arising from the Willie Clancy Week.    The 54th Scoil Samhraidh Willie Clancy is in full flow and the West Clare town's pubs, restaurants, shops and casual traders are reaping the benefits.    For the first time this year, parking is prohibited on the main street, with free parking available next to Jones's Supervalu on the Ennis Road.    Clare FM's Seán Lyons has taken the opportunity to head back west where he spoke to Mickey Wilson of Friel's Pub about how the week is going for him. Photo (c) Clare FM

For more than a century, Coláiste Eoghan Uí Chomhraidhe in Carrigaholt was at the heart of Irish language learning in west Clare, welcoming generations of students before closing its doors in 2017.     Now, after a lengthy planning process, permission has been granted for an ambitious redevelopment that will transform the historic building into a year-round cultural and educational centre with overnight accommodation and community facilities.     Joining Alan Morrissey earlier to discuss what this milestone means for the future of the college and the wider region was the Chair of the Board of Management, Dr Síle Ní Choincheannain. Photo (c) Coláiste Eoghan Uí Comhraidhe

From painting the walls of his family home as a child in Germany to creating eye-catching public murals here in west Clare, artist Marcus Vallboehmer has turned a lifelong passion for colour into a successful career.   Now living in Farrihy, near Doonbeg, Marcus is the artist behind the striking new mural of Charlotte Brontë on the White Walls in Kilkee, celebrating the famous novelist's connection to the seaside town.   Marcus joined Alan Morrissey to talk about his journey from Germany to Clare, his unique artistic style, and the inspiration behind his latest work. Photo (c) Marcus Vallböhmer via Facebook

Doonbeg and West Clare are eagerly awaiting the Amgen Irish Open, which is set to tee off at Trump International Golf Links & Hotel this September.     Around 70,000 spectators are expected, the world's top golfers are confirmed to compete, and now there's growing speculation that US President Donald Trump could also attend after saying he "thinks" he'll travel to Ireland for the tournament.     To discuss preparations, the excitement surrounding the event and what a potential presidential visit would mean, Alan Morrissey was joined on Monday's show by Doonbeg Fianna Fáil councillor, Rita McInerney, and Tommy Comerford from Doonbeg Community Development.    For more on a potential visit by President Trump to Doonbeg, Alan Morrissey was joined by the General Manager of Trump International Golf Links & Hotel, Joe Russell. Photo (c) geralt via Pixabay, Donald Trump

A new onshore wind energy project in West Clare has been refused planning permission for a second time.    Slievenalicka Locally Owned Turbine Ltd had proposed to build a single turbine of up to 150m in height across the townlands of Tooreen, Slievenalicka and Drumbaun.  However, Clare County Council has refused to grant planning permission for the project.  Earlier, Alan Morrissey got the reaction of Ennis Green Party representative, Bridget Ginnity to the news. Photo (c) Slievenalicka Locally Owned Wind Turbine

The countdown is on to one of the biggest sporting events ever to come to West Clare.   Around 70,000 spectators are expected to attend the Irish Open at Trump International Golf Links in Doonbeg this September, and now US President Donald Trump has said he is thinking of travelling to Clare to attend the tournament and watch the world's top golfers, including Rory McIlroy.   What could that mean for the local community in Doonbeg, for tourism, and for the village itself?   To discuss it, Alan Morrissey was joined by Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor, Rita McInerney, and Tommy Comerford, Doonbeg community activist. Photo (c) geralt via Pixabay, Donald Trump

The West Clare Railway Greenway is on track after Clare County Council submitted the first section of the project to An Coimisiún Pleanála for development. Alan Farrell, Deputy Chief Executive and Director of Service for Housing at Clare County Council.

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

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

Over 12,500 Clare people remain on an at risk public drinking water supply. According to the EPA's latest annual report, both the old and new Water Treatment Plants in West Clare continue to experience issues managing trihalomethanes. Measures aimed at combatting the problems are not expected to be implemented until 2032 and 2030 respectively. Environmental Protection Agency Programme Manager Noel Byrne has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that the water is still safe to drink.

The Kilkee Brontë Festival returns later this month, celebrating the unique connection between one of the world's most famous literary families and the West Clare seaside town where Charlotte Brontë spent part of her honeymoon.   This year's festival, running from the 17th to the 19th of July, features talks from leading Brontë experts, along with art, local history and guided tours.   Joining Alan Morrissey were the Festival Director, Jenny Bassett, Principal Curator of the Brontë Parsonage Museum in Yorkshire, Ann Dinsdale, and award-winning writer and journalist Sharon Wright, who has co-authored a new book on the Brontë family with Ann, called Let Me In: The Brontë's in Bricks and Mortar. Photo (c) Kilkee Civic Trust

There were two changes of the guard at Áras Contae an Chláir on Friday.    Corofin Fianna Fáil Councillor Joe Killeen was named the county's new mayor at the annual general meeting of Clare County Council.    First elected in 2019, the former INTO president is the second member of his family to wear the chain of office, with his cousin, former Defence Minister Tony Killeen, serving in the role from 1989 to 1991.    Separately, Kilmurry Ibrickane Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon was elected Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District.    Clare FM's Seán Lyons was at council HQ where he first spoke to the new county mayor, Joe Killeen, about his vision for the role. Photo (c) Clare County Council

A Clare senator says there's "merit" in a proposal for an air ambulance base in Clare. The call has been made by the Friends of Ennis Hospital campaign group following the airlifting of a GAA player from the Loop Head Peninsula to University Hospital Limerick last week. According to HSE data, one fifth of air ambulance call-outs nationwide come from the Midwest region. Speaking in the Seanad, Ennistymon Senator Martin Conway says many parts of West Clare are simply too far away the Dooradoyle facility.

The new Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District insists employment opportunities must be created in the region to allow it to reach its full potential. Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon will wear the west of the county's chain of office until next June after being elected this week. He assumes the role just two years ago first securing a seat on Clare County Council at the 2024 Local Election. The Kilmurry Ibrickane man says it's up to all of the area's elected representatives to lobby for inward investment.

Excitement is building for the South West Clare Pony Races taking place this Sunday (28th June), promising a fantastic day of family fun and top-class racing.   The event features the West Clare Derby, with a 1st prize of €2,500, as well as a best dressed competition and many more top class prizes.  One of the organisers, Cree Independent councillor, Dinny Gould joined Alan Morrissey to tell us more about the event. Photo (c) nigelb10 from Getty Images via Canva

Visitors to County Clare this summer are once again able to explore some of the region's most spectacular attractions without needing a car, thanks to the return of the Burren & Cliffs Explorer Shuttle Bus.     The free service, which returned just over a month ago (21st May) connects a number of towns and villages across North and West Clare, including new stops in Ennistymon and Spanish Point, while providing easy access to the Cliffs of Moher Experience and Burren National Park.    To tell us more about the service, its benefits for visitors and local communities, and what's in store for the 2026 season, Alan Morrissey was joined by Sharon Malone, Assistant Sales and Marketing Manager with Clare Tourism Development DAC. Photo (c) Cliffs of Moher

A GAA player had to be airlifted to hospital from the Loop Head Peninsula last week (Thursday night, 18th June) after suffering an injury during a training session in Cross. While the player is expected to make a full recovery, the incident has once again raised questions about ambulance availability in West Clare, with reports that no local ambulance was available at the time. It has also reignited calls for improved emergency medical services in the region, including a dedicated air ambulance base for West Clare. To discuss the issue, West Clare health campaigner Deirdre Culligan, who is involved with the Friends of Ennis Hospital and Reinstate ShannonDoc campaigns, and Cillian Murphy, a Kilkee resident and former councillor, joined Alan Morrissey on the programme.

Celebrated Dublin singer-songwriter Colm Gavin is set to bring his 2026 UK and Ireland tour to West Clare next month, with a special performance at The Frozen Spoon in Miltown Malbay on July 24th.    The tour follows a string of sold-out shows and the release of his latest album, Live at Whelans, recorded in one of Ireland's most iconic music venues.  Known for his engaging stage presence, witty banter and blend of folk, acoustic and jazz influences, Colm has also written songs for some of Ireland's best-known performers. Alan Morrissey spoke to Colm Gavin to find out more about what the tour has in store. Photo (c) Colm Gavin via Facebook

The Taoiseach has pledged to intervene on a West Clare's school bid to expedite an upgrade of its toilet facilities. It's after Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe raised the case of St Joseph's Secondary School in Spanish Point in the Dáil. It was claimed the school currently has 216 female students sharing just four cubicles between them and that a request to build an additional ten was approved by the Department five years ago, but has yet to be actioned. Taoiseach Micheál Martin says he wants to see the matter progressed.

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

A west Clare mother Gillian Molohan who has spent the past number of months in and out of CHI Crumlin with her child. During that time, she experienced first-hand some of the everyday challenges faced by parents staying in hospital accommodation. Gillian has since begun a fundraising effort to help provide essential equipment and practical supports for families in similar situations. To hear more about her story, what she's hoping to achieve, and why this initiative matters so much to her, she joined Derrick Lynch on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Image (c) by Gillian Molohan via GoFundMe

The Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee (FSPAC) of the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is urging farmers across the country to prioritise tractor safety during Tractor Safety Week, which takes place from Monday 25 May. Tractors remain central to farm work but continue to be associated with serious and fatal incidents. In the last 10 years, 38 fatalities involving tractors on farms were recorded, while vehicle-related incidents remain the leading cause of work-related fatalities in the agriculture sector. The campaign will focus on practical steps farmers can take to reduce risks and improve safety when using tractors. For more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Andrew Naughton, a suckler farmer in West Clare. Photo (c) Canva.com

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

The first step in establishing an essential childcare facility in a rural West Clare village will be taken this evening. A community meeting is taking place at 7pm tonight in Mullagh Sportsfield with a view to setting up a creche. According to Pobal, Mullagh is among the top 100 most deprived settlements in the country. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon says its vital new amenities are secured.

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

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

Ahead of the Irish Concertina Orchestra's landmark headline concert at glór in Ennis on 23 May 2026, producer and musical director Pádraig Rynne joined Daragh Dolan in studio to discuss their latest release, Aboard the West Clare. The sweeping new composition by Bill Whelan is inspired by the historic West Clare Railway and recorded at Windmill Lane Studios with NOTIFY and the MGCE Concert Orchestra. The piece marks the final instalment in the lead-up to the much-anticipated concert.

It's claimed more investment is urgently needed in West Clare's infrastructure to prevent future water consumption issues. A boil water notice is currently in place for over 740 residents in Cranny, Coolmeen and Kildysart. Uisce Éireann implemented the precaution following issues at the Kildysart Water Treatment Plant. Local Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan the facility needs to be upgraded.

The reopening of a West Clare Post Office following a robbery earlier this year has been described as a godsend for the local community. Having been temporarily closed since late January, the new and improved Carrigaholt Post Office officially came back into to action this morning. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan reports

Clare County Council claims it's "working with" Transport Infrastructure Ireland to implement a speed limit reduction on a West Clare national secondary road. Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon is calling for the speed limit to be reduced from 80 to 60 kilometres per hour at Darragh on the N68 amid safety concerns. The local authority needs written consent from TII to alter speed limits on national secondary roads but it's told Councillor Shannon it's "working with TII, the Members and the local community to deliver a safety scheme at this location". The Quilty representative claims Clare isn't getting its fair share of roads funding.

West Clare residents fear their area will be turned into a "ring of steel" if a controversial renewable energy development gets the green light. FuturEnergy Ireland is seeking to construct the 'Cahermurphy West Wind Farm' which would consist of eight wind turbines ranging from 180 to 185 metres in height on lands five kilometres north of Kilmihil. An Coimisiún Pleanála is due to make a decision on the project by March 22nd of next year. Local woman Yvonne Conway, who was in the viewing gallery of this week's meeting of Clare County Council where the matter was discussed, believes it would destroy the natural beauty of the region.

West Clare residents have told the Health Minister they've been forgotten when it comes to ambulance care in the region. Jennifer Carroll MacNeill visited Kilkee this morning as part of an ongoing countywide tour today where locals and medical staff are taking the opportunity to express the reality of deficits in healthcare provision.

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

The May Bank Holiday weekend brought a new burst of life to Miltown Malbay, as a brand-new festival celebrating traditional Irish music made its debut. Led by renowned musician Joanie Madden, the May Day Festival has already been hailed as a major success—giving local businesses a welcome boost and earning comparisons to a “Mini Willie Clancy.” With music, dancing, workshops and sessions filling the town, there's already talk of this becoming a major annual event in West Clare. On Thursday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Joanie Madden herself, and Mickey Wilson of Friels, to look back on a very special weekend. Photo (c) Visit Clare

With exam season fast approaching, many young people and their parents are feeling the pressure. From rising anxiety levels to the challenge of balancing expectations, this time of year can be particularly overwhelming for students. A psychotherapist based in West Clare is working closely with adolescents, adults and families, supporting them through issues like exam stress, anxiety and emotional wellbeing. She spoke with Alan Morrissey on Wednesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Africa Images via Canva

From the hills of West Clare to international stages in the United States, singer-songwriter Siobhán O'Brien has built a remarkable career rooted in storytelling and place. Her latest release, Sometimes It Takes A Dutchman, tells the very local story of Harry Jeuken—better known as Harry the Dutchman—who left Holland to farm in the Burren and now welcomes visitors along the much-loved Lough Avalla Farm Loop. Alan Morrissey was joined by Siobhán O'Brien and Harry Jeuken to talk about the inspiration behind the song, life in the Burren, and how a one chance encounter turned into music. Image © Siobhán O'Brien via Facebook

A West Clare post office is set to reopen its doors next month, just months after a shocking robbery that left its postmistress injured and the local community shaken. Now, in a sign of resilience and recovery, Carrigaholt Post Office will resume service from May 18th, with a strong outpouring of local support behind it. Alan Morrissey has been speaking with Luke Aston, who is on the committee tasked with bringing Carrigaholt Post Office back, about the post office's journey back and what this reopening means for the local community. Image © Carrigaholt Post Office via Facebook

Now, a new initiative launching in West Clare is shining a light on something simple, but powerful—the idea that reading can support our mental health and overall wellbeing. Reading for Wellness is a programme developed with the support of Clare County Council, Clare Libraries and the Clare Older People's Council, and it aims to help tackle loneliness, anxiety and social isolation through shared reading and connection. The initiative has its roots in a project created by bestselling author Ann Cleeves, and it's now being brought to life here in Clare with a special launch event in Kilkee later this month. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Shanelle Warring, Clare Age Friendly Programme Manager and Frances Pender, Healthy Ireland at your library Co-Ordinator from Kilrush Library Image © Clare County Council via Facebook

Friends of the Irish Environment claims its opposition to a new ballroom at the US President's West Clare resort has "nothing to do with the owner". The environmental group is threatening to go to the High Court over plans for a single-storey ballroom and other enhancements at Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Doonbeg. The development was given the green light by Clare County Council in February but Friends of the Irish Environment are raising concerns around drainage plans as well as the presence of the Vertigo Angustior snail which is said to be in "terminal decline". FIE Director Tony Lowes insists their sole focus is on promises made on environmental measures that haven't been kept.

This Saturday, the focus is on sustainability, style, and community spirit in West Clare, as a special Pop-Up Shop takes place at Miltown Malbay Community Centre. With a wide range of pre-loved clothes, shoes, and accessories for women, men, and children, the event encourages people to embrace the “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” message—all while picking up some great finds. The café will also be open on the day, with proceeds going to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. Alan Morrissey was joined by one of the organisers, Fiona Whyte. Image © Fiona Whyte via Facebook

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

This May Bank Holiday weekend, something very special is coming to the home of traditional Irish music in West Clare. A brand-new festival in Miltown Malbay, hosted by one of the most celebrated names in Irish music, Joanie Madden, promises a fantastic mix of concerts, sessions, workshops and dancing, bringing together local talent and international performers. Joanie joined Alan Morrissey live in-studio on Tuesday's Morning Focus.