Podcasts about west clare

The West Clare Cancer Centre has honoured long-time supporter Matt Keating, presenting him with a special appreciation award for his many years of dedicated fundraising. The gesture, made by Mary McGrath and the team, recognises the vital role Matt has played in helping the centre continue its outstanding work supporting people in West Clare affected by cancer. Alan Morrissey spoke with Matt on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) West Clare Cancer Facebook

The Friends of Regina House, Kilrush, have received approximately (according to Regina House) €47,000 in donations thanks to the tireless fundraising of Paddy Kelly and his fellow cyclists. Regina House provides essential, compassionate care for older people in West Clare, and community support like this plays a vital role in sustaining its services and comfort for residents. Paddy, who is no stranger to lengthy, major cycles – having cycled through England last year – cycled from Mizen Head to Malin Head during late August, all with the aim of raising vital funds for the invaluable work carried out by Regina House. On Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Paddy Kelly and John Bonfil, Member of the Friends of Regina House Committee. Photo (c) iDonate

A date for the full transfer of governance of a West Clare nursing home to the HSE has been set. At the most recent meeting of the Regional Health Forum West, HSE Midwest has confirmed the target completion date of the transfer of business legal agreement for St Senan's Nursing Home in Kilrush is May 2026. The centre, which currently cares for 20 residents, has been subject to significant capital upgrades as part of a €2 million investment from the HSE in January 2024. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney says it's crucial to get one of the cornerstones of West Clare back to full operating capacity.

The latest Transport Sectoral Implementation Report under the National Development Plan (NDP) has been published, but there's next to nothing of Clare interest in it. The report outlines the national road projects expected to advance before 2030. While several counties across Ireland have multiple strategic schemes progressing, Clare is almost entirely absent. West Clare does not feature at all, nor the works required in Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus, to alleviate flooding, or the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station. Is Clare being sidelined or ignored? Alan Morrissey was joined by Newmarket on Fergus Fianna Fáil Councillor, David Griffin and Crusheen Resident, Michael O'Doherty for their views on this. Photo of Ballycar Flooding (c) File Photo

It's hoped the development of new infrastructure in West Clare will encourage people with reduced mobility to swim. It follows a grant of €25,000 in funding, which will provide four sea shelters across Kilkee and Spanish Point. The funds will also provide for non-slip matting and accessible hand rails to enter and exit the water. Founder of Snamhaí Sásta June Curtin believes it will be hugely beneficial.

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn chats with Sharon Barrington, General Manager of IFF Plastics based near Cree in West Clare. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

Residents of a West Clare community say they live in fear on a daily basis due to a treacherous stretch of road. Transport Infrastructure Ireland has been requested to carry out a speed limit review and erect warning signage on the N68 between Darragh and McNamee's Cross following a spate of recent road traffic collisions. Since 2007, four people have been killed along the route, with a further eleven hospitalised. Local resident Colette Gavin, who previously lost a loved one on the road says action is urgently needed.

Residents of a West Clare community say they continue to live in fear on a daily basis due to a treacherous stretch of road. It comes as Transport Infrastructure Ireland has been requested to carry out a speed limit review and erect warning signage on the N68 between Darragh and McNamee's Cross following a spate of road traffic collisions. Since 2007, four people have been killed along the route, with a further eleven hospitalised. Local Resident Collette Gavin who previously lost a loved one on the road has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that action is urgently needed. We also hear from June Dillon, Clare's Aontú rep who has been raising her own concerns following the incident involving a truck last week. Photo (c) Google Maps

This week, Barry Drake speaks with one of the sport's rising young trainers, 22-year-old Colm Fitzgerald from West Clare. Fresh from a big win on Laurels Final night and strong runs across Cork, Galway and Tralee, Colm reflects on a remarkable year. A great insight into a talented young trainer quickly making a name for himself. Have a listen now!

Over €100,000 in Government funding has been granted for a popular natural tourist attraction in West Clare. As part of €16.5 million announcement for 63 outdoor recreation projects nationwide, the Bridges of Ross Walking Trail Extension has been allocated a total of €108,000. The funding will allow for the elongation of the route thus providing a looped walking option. Kilrush Fine Gael Councillor Gabriel Keating says it's a uniquely peaceful place to visit.

IBÍLÈ will be hosting its first West Clare pop-up tasting experience this weekend. IBÍLÈ is a contemporary pop-up dining restaurant dedicated to showcasing the vibrant flavours of West African cuisine. They will have a tasting menu at Pot Duggans in Ennistymon on the 7th & 8th of November. The menu is inspired by Nigerian roots, paired with music, storytelling, and cocktails crafted African wine pairings with Irish spirits. To find out more, Alan Morrissey spoke with the founder of IBÍLÈ, Tolu Asemento. Photo (c) via Pot Duggans Facebook

The One Act Drama Festival is coming to Doonbeg this weekend. The event, part of the West Clare Drama Festival, will take place from Saturday to Monday, the 8th to the 10th of November. Nine different plays will be performed over three nights. For more on this, Chairperson of the West Clare Drama Festival, Andrew Killeen joined Alan Morrissey on Tuesday's Morning Focus. Photo (C) West Clare Drama Festival Doonbeg Facebook

An event highlighting the decline of the Irish language in West Clare will be held later this week. Dr. Síle Ní Choincheannain from Mary Immaculate College will deliver the lecture at Bhí Gaeilge ag do Granny! From Irish to English: Language Decline in West Clare. It will be held at An Teach Ceoil, Kilrush this Thursday, November 6th at 8pm. Photo (c) Mary Immaculate College

A popular bus route connecting West Clare and the county town will be altered for the next two months. Due to ongoing works being carried out by Uisce Éireann, Local Link's C12 Ennis to Miltown Malbay route will be unable to service Coore Church until December 19th. Passengers will instead have to board at either the Hand Hill or the Crosses of Annagh. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon says while there will be some disruption, the works will be worthwhile.

On this week's Atlantic Tales Pat Flynn chats with Kevin Keane, who originally trained as a lawyer but gave it all up to pursue his passion. After taking beginners course, Kevin Keane became instantly obsessed with pottery. He spent a time travelling, before relocating from Dublin to West Clare, where his business Potadóir was born! Kevin and his partner Dzana will soon open their new pottery studio and school as well as a yoga studio in Ennis.

An important update has been issued to West Clare residents casting their ballots in the Presidential Election tomorrow. Due to ongoing renovation works at Querrin Schoolhouse, anyone with the school on their polling card will instead vote at Carrigaholt National School. Those whose polling station was Knockanean National School prior to its demolition will go to Fahy Hall in Roslevan tomorrow, while voters in Tubber are being reminded to mark their ballot paper in the new national school building located beside the church. Clare County Registrar and Returning Officer Rita Considine says the location on every polling card is accurate with the exception of those whose card directs them to Querrin National School.

The Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District believes an outer relief road will be needed in Ennistymon within the next decade. It comes as the High Court has dismissed an application for leave to bring a judicial review challenge against the Compulsory Purchase Order for an inner relief road in the North Clare town. The project has been in the works since 2010 and is intended to alleviate long-standing traffic congestion at Blake's Corner. Fine Gael Councillor Bill Slattery previously lobbied for an outer relief road to be constructed and he believes it could still be required.

Hundreds of local residents have signed a petition calling for urgent safety upgrades on the main road linking Ennis to West Clare. It follows a serious road traffic collision which occurred just outside McNamee's Londis on the N68 last Friday, which left one person hospitalised. Since 2007, four people have been killed in road traffic incidents along the 2km route between Darragh's North Cross and Bansha Cross. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan visited McNamee's Londis and spoke to a number of local residents. Photo (c) Clare FM

Could we see cruise ships docking at Moneypoint in the near future? That's the hope of Cree Independent councillor, Dinny Gould. He brought a motion before the recent meeting Clare County Council, asking the local authority to “explore an opportunity to boost tourism in West Clare and capitalise on Moneypoint port”. For more on this, Alan was joined by Dinny Gould, Cree Independent Councillor and Cillian Murphy, member of the steering group Loop Head Together. Image (c) Visit Clare

Residents of a West Clare town are being urged to play their part in reuniting two lost dogs with their owners. Two elderly labradors - one golden and one chocolate brown - have been seen frequently in a field outside Kilkee over the past two weeks. It's understood the golden labrador has been taken away and treated for a number of health issues while its chocolate brown companion remains at the site. Clare County Dog Warden Frankie Coote is hopeful someone will know whose pets they are.

It's claimed an urgent upgrade of Kilmihil's Wastewater Treatment Plant is needed to stimulate further population growth. It follows a new EPA report which identified the West Clare village as one of 34 priority areas nationwide were upgrades are needed to prevent wastewater discharges from harming rivers, estuaries, lakes and coastal waters. According to Uisce Éireann however, upgrades at Kilmihil will not be complete until 2030. Local Independent Councillor Dinny Gould says it's not good enough.

John Keane is the new Chairman of the Amateur Drama Council of Ireland. The Doonbeg man was appointed at the group's AGM in recent days. To find out more, John spoke with Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Amateur Drama Council Ireland Facebook

A West Clare nurse has sounded the alarm over a lack of dental care in rural areas. As of January, there were just six dental practices here partaking in the medical card scheme, while it's understood that just 8 private facilities are available outside of Ennis. According to the Irish Dental Association meanwhile, two-thirds of practices nationwide are struggling to recruit staff. Kilmurry McMahon based Aontú Rep June Dillon claims the sector is at a tipping point.

A West Clare community is being praised for its response to the abandonment of a large number of chickens in recent days. Clare's County Dog Warden received a report last Thursday of chickens which had been left in various locations across Lissycasey. Locals and rescue services assisted in rounding up the roughly 60 animals which have since been re-homed. Frankie Coote says it's a highly unusual incident and credits those who gave their time to help out.

Clare County Council is asking the Department of Transport and Transport Infrastructure Ireland for "increased focus and funding" for West Clare's roads ahead of the Irish Open 2026. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney has this week called for "critical improvements" to be carried out on the region's roads network in advance of the competition, with a particular emphasis an Kilmihil through Cree to Doonbeg. In response, the West Clare Municipal District says it's currently working on "plans for improvements" and is liaising with the Department as well as TII in relation to the works involved along with a request for "increased focus and funding on these routes". Councillor McInerney says there's an appetite for the maintenance programme and the allocation of funding from Government to be fast-tracked.

The Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) is inviting members of the public, and in particular community groups and individuals, with an interest in water quality, to a community information meeting this evening (Wednesday, 17th September 2025 at 7.30pm) in the Falls Hotel, Ennistymon. The meeting on water quality in North and West Clare will also discuss the establishment of a Community Catchment Forum for the Mal Bay Catchment of North and West of the County. Ruairí Ó Conchúir, from the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) spoke with Alan Morrissey on Wednesday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) The Clare Herald

Inagh, in North Clare, has been crowned Ireland's greenest village. Despite its small population of just 192, the competition's judges said the West Clare village's success shows you don't need a big community to have a positive climate impact. Joining Alan Morrissey on Tuesdays Morning Focus was Niall Garvey, Chair of Inagh Development, Roisín Garvey, from Inagh who nominated the village, Michael O'Connor, Inagh Tidy Towns committee. Photo (c) Visit Clare

Fresh calls have been made for additional ambulances in West Clare. It follows an incident this week, in which a young girl is understood to have waited 2 and a half hours for an ambulance after sustaining a serious knee injury at a game in Quilty. It's believed another ambulance originally dispatched to the incident had to be diverted to respond to a life-threatening call elsewhere in the county. However, Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon insists it's high time a third ambulance is allocated to the region to prevent the scenario in future.

Clare's Minister of State is expressing confidence that offshore wind development can take place off the county's coast without impacting on its natural beauty. A Government proposal outlining the future of offshore renewable energy in Ireland has been launched at an event in West Clare today.

Clare's Minister of State is expressing confidence that offshore wind development can take place off the county's coast without impacting on its natural beauty. A Government proposal outlining the future of offshore renewable energy in Ireland has been launched at an event in West Clare today. The Armada Hotel in Spanish Point has been chosen as the location for the launch of the National Designated Maritime Area Plan for Offshore Renewable Energy Proposal. The document, along with its accompanying Public Participation Statement, contains a roadmap for the progression of Ireland's offshore wind sector over the coming years. Building on the South Coast DMAP for Offshore Renewable Energy approved by the Oireachtas in 2024, the National DMAP will designate sites around Ireland's coast suited to offshore wind. According to the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, the proposal launched today provides a “sustainable framework for developing offshore renewable energy, balancing economic growth, environmental protection, and community engagement to support Ireland's transition to a low-carbon future”. Tulla Fianna Fáil TD and Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Timmy Dooley, believes sites can be chosen for development along Clare's coastline in a way that doesn't damage its iconic appeal. The proposal includes a timeline for public participation which states that consultation will take place in the pre-draft stage with maritime stakeholders, authorities and the public within the first three months of 2026. In early 2027, the draft National DMAP is to be published, and this will be followed by formal public consultation ahead of the finalisation of the DMAP at the year's end. Chair of the Shannon Estuary Economic Taskforce Barry O'Sullivan insists the focus must now be on delivery. CEO of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group Dr Simon Berrow has expressed support for the development of a National DMAP from the perspective of decarbonisation. He says it's vital however that extensive knowledge of species and habitats in the ocean is acquired as part of the process.

Speculation is mounting that West Clare will be hosting the 2026 Irish Open. It follows reports that Trump International Golf Links Doonbeg will be confirmed as the venue later today. The Taoiseach says he'd welcome a meeting with Donald Trump if he attends the Irish Open next year. Meanwhile Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that it's vital road infrastructure is upgraded in time for the event that should have long lasting economic impacts.

Kilrush RNLI is hailing the outcome of a search operation in the Shannon Estuary as an "outstanding result". The West Clare lifeboat station was one of a number of agencies involved in the search yesterday which commenced shortly after 9am when a person was reported "overboard" from the Killimer to Tarbert ferry. After being spotted by the crew of the Rescue 117 helicopter shortly before 11am, the man was brought to University Hospital Limerick where he's being treated for "severe hypothermia" and is understood to be recovering well. Kilrush RNLI Volunteer Lifeboat Press Officer Charlie Glynn has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons it was an extremely successful operation and credit is due to all bodies involved.

This Sunday, the community in Miltown Malbay is coming together for a special event at the Armada Hotel called Gather for Gaza. Organised a Palestinian man originally from Gaza and now living and working here in West Clare, the fundraiser aims to support families in Gaza who are in urgent need. To find out more, Sally-Ann Barrett was joined in-studio by Mohammad Alloh, Proud Palestinian and Isabelle Brennan, a friend of Mohammad and a friend of Palestine.

Two tourists were injured in West Clare when set upon by a dog while out walking. It's understood the dog, which has since been removed from the property, escaped and chased after the pair. Clare's Dog Warden says although there were no bites suffered, the tourists sustained minor injuries during the altercation. Frankie Coote is reminding owners large breeds can still cause damage without biting the injured party.

This Sunday marks the 20th anniversary of the death of Ann Walsh. The West Clare woman was just 23 when she was strangled by her former boyfriend on the grounds of the local church on August 24th, 2005. Raymond Donovan confessed to her murder and was subsequently sentenced to life in prison. Donovan was eligible to apply for parole last April, having had his previous application refused in 2023. For more on this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Ann Walsh's brother, Stephen Walsh.

A West Clare councillor is calling on the Junior Transport Minister to take the time to observe the condition of the county's roads network during his trip here today. Seán Canney will visit Shannon Airport this afternoon to launch the Irish Coast Guard's Aviation Service at the Midwest base. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor, Rita McInerney, says urgent investment in the county's roads network is required, particularly on the N68 between Ennis and Kilrush. She says the route can serve a huge strategic role going forward, if given the correct level of funding.

Tuesday's Morning Focus broadcasted live from the Digital Hub in Cross, in the heart of West Clare, as part of Clare FM's Summer Tour. Alan Morrissey spoke with council officials, community leaders, business owners, and residents about local development projects, coastal tourism, heritage preservation, and community pride on the Loop Head Peninsula. To begin, Alan was joined by John O'Malley, Senior Executive Officer with Clare County Council and Coordinator of the West Clare Municipal District, and Alan Kennelly, Senior Executive Engineer for the West Clare MD. John offered insight into the workings of the district, current infrastructure priorities, and key tourism initiatives. Alan Kennelly, gave an overview of recent roadworks and public services in the Kilrush LEA, highlighting the vital role played by outdoor crews, traffic wardens, beach operatives and more. Petition organiser and Shannon resident, Margaret Curtin joined Alan to discuss calls for a dedicated dog park in Shannon. Clare County Council responded with a statement to Clare FM, outlining their plans to work with the community to explore the development of such a facility. We were joined by Sergeant Edel Burke for the Garda Focus Slot. Liz Greehy and Kirsty Talty of Loop Head Together CLG discussed the importance of maintaining the Cross Hub and preserving local heritage. Sharon Cahir of Cahir & Co. Solicitors joined Alan on site for the monthly legal slot. Local Fine Gael Councillor, Gabriel Keating reflected on his career in public service and sport, sharing updates on local development and his role in transforming Loop Head Lighthouse into a thriving tourist destination. Simon Day, Head of Operations at Loop Head Lighthouse shared how the lighthouse team operates in partnership with Clare County Council. Representing Naomh Eoin GAA, Kieran Keating and Martin Haugh shared highlights from the club's 50-year history, from championship wins to the transformation of Pairc Eoin into a modern facility with a refurbished gym, indoor Astro pitch, and a floodlit walking track. Later in the programme, Alan chatted with John Bonfil of Kilballyowen Development Association about the future of the Cross Traditional Festival, and with Patrick Foley of Foley's Bar & Grocer, who spoke about the family-run pub and shop at the heart of Cross's social life. The broadcast concluded with a celebration of local talent, as Muireann and Caoimhe Keane performed live and spoke about their musical journey growing up on the peninsula and finally, Frankie Coote, Clare County Dog Warden, answered listener questions on Morning Focus's regular slot, Ask The Dog Warden.

The Justice Minister has been requested to allocate more Garda resources to West Clare following a violent incident on Sunday, which left two people hospitalised. The public order incident which occurred shortly after 7pm in Miltown Malbay led to four people sustaining injuries, with a video circulating on social media showing one man bleeding profusely after an apparent attack with an article. According to An Garda Siochána, there were 69 Gardaí stationed in the West Clare area at the beginning of the year, with just one permanently assigned to Miltown Malbay. Clare Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that he believes the west of the county has been undermanned for far too long.

It's hoped the planning process for the first stage of the West Clare Greenway will get underway next year. 1.3 million euro in funding was granted by Transport Infrastructure Ireland earlier this year towards progressing the Kilkee to Kilrush section, as well as stage two of the greenway from Ennis to Ennistymon. Clare County Council says the design of the Kilkee to Kilrush route is being finalised and landowner agreements are currently ongoing. Senior Executive Officer and West Clare Municipal District Co-ordinator/Manager, John O'Malley says once completed it will be of huge value to the area.

The Cathaoirleah of the West Clare Municipal District says there's extreme annoyance and frustration in Miltown Malbay following a violent assault last night. Gardaí are continuing to investigate the incident which resulted in at least one person being transported to hospital. A video circulating on social media showed one male bleeding profusely, with blood pools outside two premises. Lahinch Fine Gael Councillor Bill Slattery has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan that the strongest possible action should be taken against those responsible.

The funeral mass of former Mayor Bill Chambers has heard he will be remembered as a man of immense honesty and humility. The former West Clare councillor was laid to rest in Kilmacduane Cemetary today following funeral mass in St. Senan's Church in his native Cooraclare. He passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening and served over 38 years on the local authority prior to his retirement in 2023. Elected members of Clare County Council alongside members of the Council's Executive formed a guard of honour, while the funeral gifts showcased his love of politics, GAA and the Irish language. His son Eoin says Bill's passion for all his endeavours was unwavering.

The funeral of Former Mayor of Clare Bill Chambers takes place today. The former West Clare councillor passed away peacefully on Wednesday evening and served over 38 years on the local authority prior to his retirement in 2023. He will be laid to rest following a funeral mass in St. Senan's Church in his native Cooraclare at 12.30pm. A guard of honour will be formed by the elected members of Clare County Council alongside members of the Council's Executive, while the flags outside Áras Contae an Chláir will fly at half mast. Cooraclare Parish Priest, Fr Anthony Casey, says Bill was a man dedicated to his community who will be remembered for his positivity.

Visitors to West Clare are being warned not to enter the water at one of the county's beaches this weekend. With temperatures set to reach 26 degrees here, large crowds are expected to descend on local waterways. Swimming is prohibited at Doughmore in Doonbeg at all times however, given the prevelance of rip currents, but despite this it's understood there's been a number of rescues already this year. Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney says it's vital people prioritise safety.

On Friday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined by Elaine Walsh, who is a film producer from Kildysart. Elaine is the producer for The Parting, a new short film that is due to be shot in County Clare. They are seeking to fill three roles for children with some young talent from the Banner County. Alan was also joined by Patricia Vaughan, Principal of Furglan National School in Lahinch.

On this week's episode of Clare Women In Business, Pat Flynn visits Creegh Village in West Clare meet the owner of Riverside Hair & Beauty, Sarah Gould. Clare Women in Business is funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee.

A US tourist visiting West Clare is appealing for help after her dog went missing following a road traffic accident in the Kilmurry McMahon area. The woman was taken to University Hospital Limerick for treatment and, in the confusion at the scene, her black Boston Terrier ran from the car and hasn't been seen since. Understandably, she's devastated and now hopes the local community might be able to help reunite her with her beloved pet. To discuss this further, Derrick Lynch was joined by Ciara Madden, patient advocacy and liaison service at UHL helping with the search. Image (c) Clare Dog Shelter

Blood donors are being urgently sought in West Clare to keep regional hospitals supplied this week. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service is holding clinics both tonight and tomorrow Wednesday from 10 to 5 until 10 past 8 at Kilrush Community School. 65% of donations are generally used to treat cancer patients, with 30% going to routine and emergency operations and roughly 5% to births. Broadford based IBTS Donor Recruitment Executive Alex O'Connor says every donation makes a critical difference.

A West Clare teacher claims schools aren't sufficiently resourced to teach reformed curriculum coming in this September. At the beginning of the coming school year, nine new and revised Leaving Cert subject specifications will be introduced, with each of these to be worth 40% of students' final grade in the Leaving Cert. Teachers' representatives associations have previously called for the reforms to be delayed amid concerns around preparedness. St Joseph's Kilkee Community College teacher and former Association of Secondary Teachers in Ireland president, Geraldine O'Brien, believes it's rushed.

One of West Clare's most vibrant cultural events is just around the corner — the Kilrush Traditional Festival returns from Thursday, July 31st to Bank Holiday Monday, August 4th. With music, dance, song, and storytelling across five packed days, it's a celebration of all things trad, right in the heart of Kilrush. To find out more, Derrick Lynch was joined by Vincent O'Halloran and Anne Hayes.

A new exhibition launching soon in Kilkee that captures the beauty, mood, and memory of West Clare through a uniquely reflective process. To speak more on this, Derrick Lynch was joined by Pauline Dunleavy, a much-loved artist, art teacher, and community advocate from Kilrush. Her new exhibition, titled Painting Through The Lens, opens August 4th at the Cultúrlann Sweeney Gallery, with an official opening evening on August 8th.