Clare FM

Clare FM brings you our latest feature, Clare FM’s Road Safety Initiative. In this episode, Clare FM’s Lily Collins is joined by Rachel Hartigan, Ardnacrusha Fianna Fáil Cllr and member of the Clare Road Safety Working Group. Rachel discusses the current state of road safety infrastructure in Clare and the process of obtaining traffic calming measures in the council. Funded by the Coimisiún na Meán’s news reporting scheme.

The latest Simon Communities of Ireland report has highlighted just how difficult it has become for people relying on the Housing Assistance Payment, or HAP, to find affordable rental accommodation. Just 12 properties across 16 areas surveyed were available within HAP limits in September, a 40% decrease on the previous report. While Clare wasn't included in the survey, the findings raise serious questions about the situation facing renters locally. Alan was joined by Niall Garvey, CEO of Midwest Simon, to discuss what the organisation is seeing on the ground in Clare and what needs to change. Image (c) Facebook, Mid-West Simon Community

A new report has highlighted significant capacity pressures across hospitals in the Mid-West, with an average of 38 patients every day occupying acute hospital beds despite being medically approved to move to another appropriate care setting. The findings come from a new Mid-West Hospital Capacity Tracker, prepared by Bartra Healthcare, which examines hospital capacity between January and September this year. At University Hospital Limerick, an average of 25 patients a day were occupying acute beds despite being ready to move elsewhere. But one particularly interesting figure concerns Raheen Lodge Intermediate Care Centre in Limerick, which is operated by Bartra Healthcare and is reported as having zero occupancy. Image (c) KevLSmith

Clare is preparing to celebrate its title as European Volunteering Capital 2027, recognising the thousands of people across the county who give their time to support their communities. Joining Alan was Pat Sexton from Clare Sports Partnership and the EVC2027 steering group. image (c) Natasha Barton

We often take our coastline for granted, but the waters and cliffs around Ireland are home to some of the most remarkable seabirds in the world. From puffins and gannets to guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes, Ireland is an internationally important location for seabird populations. And here in Clare, we are particularly fortunate to have some spectacular coastal habitats, including the Cliffs of Moher and Loop Head. But these birds face growing challenges, from climate change and declining food supplies to marine pollution and habitat disturbance. BirdWatch Ireland is hoping to shine a spotlight on these fascinating creatures through a new Winter Series of talks entitled Ireland's Seabirds. The first event takes place at the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis on Monday, November 16th, hosted by the Clare branch of BirdWatch Ireland and open to everyone. Joining Alan to tell us more was Sarah Hegarty, Marine Advocacy and Campaigns Officer. Image (c) jggrz from pixabay

Joining Alan was Mike Hanrahan, musician, songwriter and one half of the legendary Stockton’s Wing. Mike has recently received European recognition for his song A River Rolls On, which has been acknowledged as a dementia anti-stigma message for change. Inspired by his own mum, the song is a beautiful reminder of the power of music to connect, comfort and challenge perceptions around dementia. Image (c) Clare FM

The days of ordering a €3 dress, a €2 household gadget or cheap jewellery from international online shopping platforms without additional charges are changing. The European Union is tightening the rules on low-value parcels entering the bloc, with additional fees targeting platforms such as Shein, Temu and AliExpress. Around 5.8 billion parcels valued at less than €150 entered the EU last year, and the new charges are expected to generate billions of euro for European budgets. But what does this mean for consumers here in Ireland? Could it finally help local retailers compete with the international online giants, or will shoppers simply end up paying more? To discuss the implications for businesses, consumers and the future of retail, Alan was joined by Pat Clarke Browne, Technology Expert with Munster Business in Shannon, and Margaret O'Brien, CEO of Ennis Chamber. Image (c) Kindel Media from Pexels via Canva

Upgrades to wastewater infrastructure in a west Clare village are being hailed as a gamechanger for the region. It comes as Uisce Éireann has received the go ahead for the full redevelopment of the Kilmihil Wastewater Treatment Plant. The new infrastructure is set to cater for the village's needs for the next three decades, with hopes of major development in the area off the back of the works. West Clare MD Cathaoirleach, Michael Shannon, says it represents a change of pace from wastewater issues in other parts of the Municipal District.

Coming up on the show, we will reflect on Inagh-Kilnamona's win over Glen Rovers in the Munster club hurling championship along with Clooney-Quin's victory in the Clare Minor A hurling final. We look back on the weekend's local soccer action and Moy GAA Club are the focus of More Than A Club

Clare FM’s Derrick Lynch took us through the weekend’s sporting fixtures. ~ Munster Senior Club Hurling Quarter Final ~ Inagh-Kilnamona 1-21 Glen Rovers 1-14 (Cork) (Sunday, Páirc Uí Rinn) ~ Clare U21 A Football Championship ~ Image (c) Clare FM

Broadcaster, adventurer and storyteller Hector Ó hEochagáin is back with a brand-new seven-part travel series on TG4 called Hola Hector – Ó Bogotá go Buenos Aires. Twenty-five years after his first adventure in South America, Hector returns to explore seven countries, meeting extraordinary people, discovering fascinating cultures and, as always, getting himself into some interesting situations along the way. From the Amazon rainforest and the football pitches of Brazil to the Gaucho country of Argentina, this promises to be quite an adventure. Photo (c) TG4

Judy Beck from Clonroad Garden Centre, Ennis was back on Tuesday’s Morning Focus to answer all your gardening queries. This week, Judy told us about the hardy Buxus, or Box, plant. If you have any questions for Judy, contact the show on 0818 400 964 or send a text or WhatsApp to 086 1800 964. Image (c) Clonroad Garden Centre

This year marks a very special milestone for the Lisdoonvarna & Burren Active Retirement Group, as they celebrate 20 years of friendship, fun and community spirit. Established in 2006 with just 25 members, the group has grown to around 60, bringing people together from across North Clare and beyond through social events, outings, exercise and plenty of activities. Joining Alan Morrissey to tell us all about the celebrations, look back on two decades of memories and talk about plans for the future were Margaret O’Sullivan, Bridie Sammon and Mary Pegg. Photo (c) Clare FM

There's a significant change for learner drivers in Ireland, with tougher rules around the renewal of learner permits coming into effect yesterday (Sunday, 1st November). Under the new regulations, anyone applying for a third or fourth learner permit must have actually sat a driving test within the previous two years. Those who reach the end of a fourth permit without obtaining a full licence will have to start the learning process again. The Government says the changes are designed to improve road safety and encourage people to progress towards a full driving licence. However, concerns have been raised about driving test waiting times, particularly for people living in rural areas who depend on a car. So, what do these changes mean for learner drivers, and will they make our roads safer? To discuss this, Alan Morrissey was joined by Chris Curran of Chris Curran Coaching Driving School in Ennis. Photo (c) ChrisHepburn from Getty Images Signature via Canva

On Monday’s Morning Focus, it was time again for our Arts Slot with County Art’s Officer Siobhán Mulcahy. Siobhán provided our listeners with all the details of this week’s live events for entertainment lovers in Banner County. Photo (c) Clare FM

The homelessness crisis continues to deepen, both nationally and here in County Clare. The latest monthly figures, which were due to be published last Friday, were postponed by the Department of Housing because of ongoing public sector industrial action and incomplete data. The last available figures for August showed a record 17,885 people in emergency accommodation across the country, including almost 5,830 children. Here in Clare, approximately 103 adults were recorded as homeless, an increase of 31% on the same month last year. And there are growing concerns about the number of people seeking help locally, as well as those sleeping rough. On Monday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey looked beyond the statistics and heard about the reality facing people experiencing homelessness in our community. Joining Alan were Shane Doody, Homeless Support Worker and Shannon Sinn Féin representative, and Fiona Faulkes, who established the Mobile Shower initiative for homeless rough sleepers in Ennis. Photo (c) plp609…

Get ready for an exciting weekend of adventure as the Cannonball Overland 4X4 Adventure rolls into County Clare from November 13th to 15th. Up to 70 impressive 4X4 vehicles, including Land Rover Defenders, Ford Raptors, Bentley Bentaygas and even a Tesla Tank, will explore some of Clare's most spectacular landscapes, from the Burren to the Cliffs of Moher and Loop Head. It's a weekend of incredible driving, great food, Irish hospitality and camaraderie, all while supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities Ireland. Joining Alan Morrissey to tell us more was Alan Bannon, Cannonball founder. Photo (c) Cannonball

On Monday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was chatting to local artist Leigh O’Connell about an exciting new community project, Faces of Lisdoonvarna. Leigh, Artistic Director and a familiar face on the local arts scene, will be working alongside her team of Burren Artists to create a vibrant mural celebrating the people, personalities and stories that make Lisdoonvarna so special. With community involvement at its heart, this promises to be a wonderful addition to the town. Image (c) Lisdoonvarna Tidy Towns via GoFundMe

New figures from the CSO have highlighted significant challenges facing people in County Clare when it comes to accessing healthcare. Clare residents live an average of 17.1 kilometres from a primary care centre – the longest distance of any county in Ireland. Meanwhile, calls are growing for a permanent BreastCheck facility in Ennis, following the temporary relocation of the mobile screening unit from the county town. So, should Clare have more primary care centres, and is it time for a permanent breast screening service locally? Alan Morrissey has been speaking about this with Sinn Féin Councillor James Ryan, who is also a member of the HSE Regional Health Forum Midwest. For more on this, Deirdre Culligan, spokesperson for Friends of Ennis Hospital, was on the line. Photo (c) Curran Aluminium

It's claimed over 40% of drinkable water in Ennis is lost to leakage. Uisce Éireann has held a private briefing with Clare County Councillors to address infrastructure concerns. Representatives were reportedly told that Ennis Reservoir is running at half capacity, that the water source at Drumcliffe Springs is extremely vulnerable, but that upgrades will commence on the Clareabbey Wastewater Treatment Plant from next year. Clareabbey Fianna Fáil Councillor Tom O'Callaghan says residents need to see progress.

A new roundabout aiming to ease congestion on of Ennis' busiest junctions will be built in time for the new year. Clare County Council will commence construction of a new mini roundabout between the Lahinch Road and Shanaway Road today. The works will also deliver two new controlled pedestrian crossings. Ennis Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard says it's something the community has been crying out for.

Inagh Kilnamona manager Eugene Cullinan is praising his side's preparation as they notched their first ever win in the Munster Senior Club Hurling Championship. A 1-21 to 1-14 victory over Glen Rovers sets up a last four tie with Tipperary champions Thurles Sarsfields in two weeks time. Davy Fitzgerald netted the goal for The Combo after 26 minutes, with Aidan McCarthy hitting 14 points for the Canon holders. Cullinan says the squad managed the occasion brilliantly.

Fr Brendan Quinlivan presents this edition of Beyond Belief which features on this week’s programme, Colm Flynn reflecting on the Pope’s recent illness, his upcoming trip to Latin America and the appointment of the first lay-woman (who was his former boss) as prefect of a Vatican Department. We bring you a report from the 40th Anniversary of the “Spirit of Assisi” ecumenical gathering and Fr. Pat Malone reflects with us on the spirituality of the month of November when we remember the Saints and the Souls.

A vital road safety initiative for children will return to the Banner County next week. 'Check it fits' helps parents and ensure car seats are correctly fitted and will be available between 10am - 5:30pm on Monday November 2nd in the Aldi car park on Francis Street in Ennis. Over half the seats checked by the RSA were found to be incorrectly fitted, which could lead to serious or fatal injury in the event of a collision. Lead Checker with the Check it Fits programme, Ron Richardson, says it's vital those using car seats everyday are aware of their functionality.

Concerns have been raised over delays to rolling out a localised Clare weather warning system. The Government had initially given an undertaking to deliver a new polygon system by the end of this year in the aftermath of Storm Éowyn in January. Clare as a whole did not have an alert beyond status yellow during Storms Austen and Boelo, despite some areas of the county enduring significant winds and flooding. Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney says the updated model is urgently needed.

Dtephen Fletcher leads our Sunday Prayer for today, Sunday 1st November, All Saints Day.

A Clare haulier says Transport Infrastructure Ireland are engaging in price gouging through the latest round of announced increases to toll fares. Increases of 20c for vehicles with two and three axels and 30c for those with four or more axels will come into affect from January 1st. Hikes to the fares for both the M50 and Dublin Port Tunnel have also been announced, while regular passenger cars now facing a charge of €2.40 to use toll roads. IRHA Deputy Vice President, Ennis Haulier Eugene Drennan, says toll roads have long since recovered the cost of construction.

Coming up on the show We have a deep dive into Inagh Kilnamona's first ever Munster Senior Club Hurling championship game against Glen Rovers in Pairc Ui Rinn on Sunday, there's the clash between first and third in the Moloney Hardware Clare Premier Division earlier that morning to look forward to also and we'll also bring you the latest installment of our more than a club series.

After a whirlwind couple of years including performances in the US and across Europe, signing an international publishing deal, signing to influential UK label SO Recordings, Shobsy releases his excellent new 'The World Will Not Remember' EP'. Fans of George Michael, David Bowie & The Weeknd are in for a treat as Shobsy’s new recordings in Berlin & Dublin embodies each of them through their genre-hopping rhythm, crossing the boundaries of synth pop into R&B. This Dubliner’s natural vocal ability, showmanship yet grounded charismatic personable character has already gained him a significant legion of fans internationally. Having completed a 14 date UK & European tour with SO Recordings labelmates MY BABY in November and December. He also performed at SXSW in March and was the Special Guest performer at The International Music Industry Person of the Year Award presentation to Jacqueline Saturn (President Virgin Music Group North America) in Los Angeles. Shobsy has also performed numerous sold out shows at…

Alan Morrissey was joined by Clare FM’s Darragh O'Grady to preview the weekend’s sporting fixtures. ~ Munster Senior Club Hurling Quarter Final ~ Inagh-Kilnamona v Glen Rovers (Cork) (Sunday, Supervalu Pairc ui Chaoimh, 1:15pm) ~ Hurling All Stars Announced This Evening ~ Image (c) Clare FM

An Ennis choir is getting ready to take centre stage on national television! The Vocal Ponies are among 12 choirs competing in TG4’s Curfá, which is searching for Ireland’s best choir. The series promises plenty of musical talent, with a €5,000 prize and the chance to perform alongside The Hothouse Flowers up for grabs. The Vocal Ponies will feature on Sunday, 8th November, at 8pm on TG4. Joining Alan Morrissey were Gerry Barry and two fellow members of the choir to tell us all about the experience. Photo (c) Clare FM

Tomorrow (Saturday) is Halloween, with children all around Clare looking forward to dressing up in their costumes, undoubtedly looking forward even further to heading out trick or treating! But how are people celebrating this year, and are old Irish traditions still playing a part in the festivities? Clare FM’s Ewelina Szybinska went out to find out how people across the county are marking Halloween. To help get us in a spooky mood, Alan Morrissey has been chatting with the Clare storyteller and filmmaker, Tommy Lanigan, also known as Balor Otherworld. Tommy shared some Halloween-flavoured stories with us. Photo (c) Balor Otherworld

A new initiative aiming to remove social and financial barriers to dealing with bereavement and grief has been launched by Clare Libraries. Death Positive Libraries Clare was officially launched today and will see 53 books made available from libraries countywide. The collection includes 46 texts designed for adults dealing with grief and seven for children, which can be easily identified by a blue butterfly symbol on their spines. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan was in attendance and began by speaking to Clare's Creative Communities Engagement Officer Eva Birdthistle. Pic (c) Paul Corry via Clare County Council

With Halloween approaching, fire services are urging the public to stay safe and be mindful of the dangers associated with bonfires, fireworks and anti-social behaviour. Every year, emergency crews face additional pressures during the Halloween period, including the risk of being attacked while responding to incidents. Joining Alan Morrissey with advice on fire safety, an update on preparations ahead of Halloween, and how this year compares with previous years, was Chief Fire Officer Adrian Kelly. Photo (c) Jens Mahnke from Pexels via Canva

Art lovers are in for a treat this November as Inis Artists bring their latest exhibition, Shadows & Light, to the DeValera Library in Ennis from November 3rd to 21st. Alongside the exhibition, local artists will host a series of free demonstrations, showcasing everything from watercolour and pencil drawing to acrylics and even coffee art! Joining Alan Morrissey was local artist Alan Shoosmith, who’ll be demonstrating how to create atmospheric skies and clouds using watercolour. Photo (c) Clare FM

County Clare has double the reason to celebrate, with two local women preparing to compete for the Miss Ireland 2026 crown! Lyane Casey, 23, from Kilmaley, is Miss Clare, while 19-year-old Saoirse Keniry from Ennis is Miss Ennis. Both will take to the stage at the grand final in Dundalk on November 21st, hoping to follow in the footsteps of Clare’s 2022 winner, Ivanna McMahon. But Miss Ireland is about much more than glamour, celebrating confidence, ambition and charitable work. Joining Alan Morrissey were Lyane and Saoirse to tell us all about their journey so far. Photos (c) Miss Ireland

Bishop of Killaloe, Fintan Monahan, has defended the diocese’s use of artificial intelligence to create images of Jesus Christ and the four evangelists for its online ministry. The AI-generated images have sparked debate about the role of technology in religious life, creativity and how we visualise sacred figures. Bishop Monahan says AI can be a valuable tool in spreading the Gospel, provided it complements rather than replaces human interaction. Alan Morrissey spoke with the Bishop of Killaloe, Fintan Monahan earlier this morning. Photo (c) Clare FM

An environmental group is raising concerns that Lahinch's waterways could be impacted if the due diligence process for a new wastewater treatment plant isn't followed. Uisce Éireann is due to carry out Marine and Intertidal site investigation surveys in Liscannor Bay, ahead of its construction of a new sewerage plant serving Ennistymon and Lahinch. Friends of the Irish Environment has requested the Marine Area Regulatory Authority to impose a marine mammal observer, along with sonar, noise and machinery weight restrictions for the duration of the works. Director Tony Lowes says it's critical the waters remain intact.

It's hoped Ennis' Halloween Parade will return in 2027, following the popularity of the inaugural event. Large numbers descended on the county town during the week as ghosts and ghouls made their way through the streets. Those in attendance were treated to a spooky production from performers from Lumen Street Theatre and the Ennis Brass Band. Ennis Chamber President, Margaret O'Brien, says the event was a huge success.

Inagh Kilnamona boss Eugene Cullinan says he'll be looking for players with intercounty experience to lead by example as they get their Munster Club Hurling Championship campaign underway The Combo travel to Páirc Uí Rinn on Sunday afternoon to take on 28-time Cork Champions Glen Rovers in the quarter final. The Tomás Mulcahy led side are spearheaded by four time All-Star Patrick Horgan, alongside Cork stars Eoin and Rob Downey and Micheál Mullins. Cullinan says they've plenty of experienced heads in their squad to match The Glen's firepower.

Clare FM brings you our latest feature, Clare FM’s Road Safety Initiative. In this episode, Clare FM’s Lily Collins is joined by Mike McGrath of Safeway Tyres Ennis. Mike discusses the importance of functioning and correct lighting on your vehicle. Funded by the Coimisiún na Meán’s news reporting scheme.

A new initiative aiming to remove social and financial barriers to dealing with bereavement and grief has been launched by Clare Libraries. Death Positive Libraries Clare was officially launched today and will see 53 books made available from libraries countywide. The collection includes 46 texts designed for adults dealing with grief and seven for children, which can be easily identified by a blue butterfly symbol on their spines. Clare Creative Communities Engagement Officer Eva Birdthistle has been telling Clare FM's Daragh Dolan she's hopeful it will make a meaningful difference for local families.

On this week's episode of 'The Future of Disability Services' , Pat Flynn chats with Rachel MacManus, an artist and mother of a child with a disability. This feature, 'The Future of Disability Services' is funded by the News Reporting Scheme.

Thursday's Morning Focus celebrated a new recording with deep roots in the traditional music of County Clare. From Loop to Hook brings brothers John and Séamus McMahon back together, reconnecting with the music, the friendships and the shared experiences that have shaped their lives. As founder members of the renowned Fisherstreet group, John and Séamus have spent many years immersed in the Clare tradition. On this new album, John brings his distinctive concertina playing, including baritone concertina, while Séamus contributes fiddle, bass fiddle and B♭ flute. They're joined by former Fisherstreet accompanist Noreen O'Donoghue on harp and piano, with Anita Broderick making a special guest appearance on tin whistle. The album will be launched at Ennis Tradfest at the Old Ground Hotel on Sunday, 8 November, at 2pm. Joining Alan Morrissey were John and Séamus McMahon and Anita Broderick to tell us the story behind From Loop to Hook. Photo (c) Clare FM

More than 90% of Garda Representative Association members who responded to a recent survey have backed industrial action, with a similar proportion prepared to support a work-to-rule during the remaining events of Ireland's EU Presidency. The GRA accuses Garda management of breaching agreed working conditions, including rest periods and overtime arrangements. But what would a work-to-rule mean for policing, and is there still time to avert a confrontation? Alan Morrissey was joined by Clare GRA representative Sean Mullins to learn more. Photo (c) Pat Flynn

Tommy Sands is one of Ireland's most respected folk singers and songwriters, an artist whose music has long crossed boundaries and brought people together. Growing up in County Down during the Troubles, he came to see song as a powerful way of telling difficult stories, challenging divisions and reminding us of our shared humanity. Now, with his Every County on the Island Tour, Tommy is bringing that message to communities across Ireland, including Glór in Ennis this Sunday, 1 November. Tommy Sands joined Alan Morrissey to talk about the journey, the stories behind his songs, and why music's power to connect people matters more than ever. Photo (c) Tommy Sands via Glór

On Thursday's Morning Focus, we heard about a very special four-legged local celebrity: Daisy, the 17-year-old Westie belonging to Clare Champion Managing Director and Motoring Editor, John Galvin. Daisy has launched her debut 2027 calendar, A Year of Walkies, Adventures and Fun, with every cent of the €10 cover price going to Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind. With Daisy herself now losing her sight, the cause is particularly close to John and his wife Shelly’s hearts. Alan Morrissey has been speaking with John – who was accompanied by Daisy and Tom Mernagh, volunteer with Irish Guide Dogs in Clare. If you want to find out more about Daisy and her adventures, you can check out her Instagram account, @daisymaygalvin! Photo (c) John Galvin via @daisymaygalvin on Instagram

Ennis-born actress Kelly Gough is enjoying another busy spell on stage and screen. This Halloween, she stars as the Morrigan, the formidable figure from Irish mythology, in the supernatural drama The Unreal. She’s also preparing to take to the stage at London’s Almeida Theatre in a new production of Eugene O’Neill’s classic play Desire Under the Elms, alongside fellow Irish actor Jamie Beamish. Kelly joined Alan Morrissey to chat about her latest roles, her acting career and her Clare roots. Image (c) Dyehouse Films

There’s been considerable concern in Clare about the BreastCheck mobile screening unit leaving Ennis on October 30th, with a petition calling for the service to remain in the county or for a permanent screening facility to be established. While the HSE’s National Screening Service has clarified that the unit operates on a rotating basis and will return, questions remain about access to screening for women who may have to travel outside Clare. The unit currently based at Áras Contae An Chláir in Ennis has now cleared the bulk of its list and is due to move more than 200 kilometres away to Ballina in Mayo on Friday. On Wednesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey discussed the issue with Ennis Fine Gael Councillor Mary Howard and Doonbeg Fianna Fáil Councillor Rita McInerney, both members of the HSE’s Regional Health Forum Mid West. Alan was joined by June Dillon, Clare Aontú representative, who still has concerns regarding the move. Photo (c) eucanscreen.eu

This Halloween, a gathering in Ennis will be about more than the usual spooky celebrations. Kites Not Frights is inviting families and members of the public to come together at the Fairgreen to fly kites and send messages of love and solidarity to children in Gaza. The event takes place on Halloween (Saturday, 31st October, at 12:30 pm), with all funds raised going directly to the registered charity Children Not Numbers, which supports the health, safety, education and rehabilitation of children affected by conflict. Eileen Thomas, spokesperson for Kites Not Frights, joined Alan Morrissey to tell us more. Image (c) Kites 4 Palestine