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A major rethink of the Irish education system is on the table—from shorter school days to a reduced curriculum and more mental health supports in schools. A new report from the Oireachtas Education Committee, inspired by the Finnish model, argues students here are under too much pressure and need more time to recharge and learn holistically. Alan Morrissey was joined by Fianna Fáil TD for Clare and Chair of the Committee, Cathal Crowe to discuss the recommendations. Image © Pixabay via Canva.com

The Superintendent of Clare's Garda Division is being requested to convene an urgent multi-agency meeting following a string of violent incidents in Kilrush. On March 3rd, Gardaí were alerted to an incident of criminal damage by fire at a domestic residence, which involved a shot being fired at the home. It's understood the episode escalated from a brawl which took place in the town earlier that day, with a video of the incident circulating widely on social media. Kilrush Independent Councillor Ian Lynch says it's behaviour which needs to be stamped out urgently.

Clare's seafood industry is expected to benefit from a quota increase for one of its most abundant fishing stocks. It comes as the EU has agreed to boost Ireland's total allowable catch for mackerel by 8,000 tonnes. The Seafood Ireland Alliance has welcomed the €32m deal, but says it doesn't resolve long-standing quota imbalances. Tulla-based Minister for Fisheries Timmy Dooley who led Ireland's negotiations says there's plenty more work to do.

Busy show coming up, where we look ahead to this evenings Munster minor football championship opener for Clare, along with reflecting on the Banner's U20 win over Waterford We kick off our build up to the National Hurling League final by hearing from Clare's Mark Rodgers and Dublin's Ronan Hayes ahead of their clash at the TUS Gaelic Grounds on Sunday next Also on the agenda this will be local soccer, ladies football, and a few other bits also so lots to get through

Clare FM's Derrick Lynch chats to Clonbony's Sean Malone to reflect on the clubs history, assess the current situation in the club and look to the future

A "huge increase" in the number of Clare people seeking homeless accommodation in the coming months is predicted due to changes to the rental system. A total of 106 adults were availing of emergency accommodation in Clare in February - the second consecutive month the figure has risen above 100. New legislation introduced at the beginning of this month means landlords who own three tenancies or less can issue an eviction notice if they need the property for a family member or if they're in financial difficulty. Midwest Simon CEO Niall Garvey has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the Government should be ramping up the construction of affordable homes while working to prevent more people from falling into homelessness.

This week on the ‘Future of Housing’, Alan Morrissey was joined on Morning Focus by Michael Vaughan, owner of Vaughan's Lodge in Lahinch and Mary O'Donoghue, coordinator of the West Clare Family Resource Centre. Together, they explored the topic of housing and community sustainability. The conversation delt with how housing affects village life, services, and population retention. This feature, ‘Future of Housing’ is funding by the News Reporting Scheme.

Better Together is helping to create safe, supportive spaces for people dealing with everything from mental health challenges to substance use or simply feeling overwhelmed. It is a peer-led recovery community offering connection and understanding through shared lived-experience. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Clare-based Peer Evaluation Lead with Better Together, Tejaswy Swathi on Monday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) better-together.ie

Judy Beck from Clonroad Garden Centre spoke with Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus for In The Garden. This week, Judy gave us advice on how to grow peas and beans in your garden. If you have any questions for Judy, text or WhatsApp 0861800964.

People across the Southern Region are being invited to have their say on a major plan that will help shape how our communities grow and develop over the next 10 to 20 years. The Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy influences everything from housing and transport to jobs and climate action, and a public consultation process is now underway. To tell us more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Kevin Lynch, Assistant Director and Senior Planner with the Southern Regional Assembly on Monday's Morning Focus.

With Consairtín 2026 just around the corner, Ennis is getting ready to welcome concertina players and traditional music lovers from all over the country and beyond. The four-day festival, now in its 13th year, promises a packed programme of workshops, concerts and sessions celebrating the very best of Irish trad. Joining Alan Morrissey on Monday's Morning Focus to tell us more was festival organiser and Crusheen resident Tim Collins and Karen McMahon, lead tutor with the Irish concertina orchestra, run by Music Generation Clare.

Once again, it was time for Alan Morrissey to be joined in studio by Siobhán Mulcahy to discuss the upcoming art events and workshops across the banner county. There will be a wide array of activities and workshops for people to attend over the next few days. Some upcoming activities include; Seaweed Stories in Ennistymon, a showing of The Kitchen Brigade in Kilkee and a Straw Mobile workshop in the Clare Museum. Image © Clare Fm

Clare IFA will hold a public meeting on Wednesday 1st April at 8pm in Treacy's West County Hotel, Ennis to highlight and discuss the important role of Women in Agriculture. Guest Speakers on the night will include Cynthia Ni Mhurchu MEP and Teresa, Roche National IFA Farm Family Chair. Alan Morrissey was joined on Morning Focus by Edel Curtin, Kilmihil Farmer and Rosaleen O’Reilly, Quin farmer who are both members of IFA Clare. Image © Pexels via Canva

This year, the An Post Irish Book Awards is celebrating 20 years of championing Irish writing, with a special list of 60 of the most loved books from the past two decades and now, the public is being asked to help choose the top 20. The list features some of the biggest names in Irish literature, such as the legendary Edna O’Brien, alongside a new generation of writers making their mark including Edna’s fellow Clare woman Gráinne O’Brien. Alan Morrissey was joined by Author Gráinne O’Brien and Bert Wright, Irish Book Awards 20th Anniversary Consultant and Ex Bookseller to talk about the milestone, the legacy, and how you can get involved. Image © irishbookawards

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

CCTV systems aimed at identifying the perpetrators of illegal dumping are set to be rolled out at two locations in Clare. The surveillance cameras will be installed at sites in Kilrush and in the east of the county in May as part of a pilot project. The local authority is set to open the process to public consultation in the coming weeks, with a view to rolling out more systems at blackspots countywide. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon gave his thoughts to Clare FM's Daragh Dolan And Alan Morrissey was joined by Josefa Mc Elligott, Chairperson of Cratloe Community Council, a group that’s been dealing firsthand with the ongoing problem of illegal dumping in the area. Image © Clare FM

Clare U20 football boss Dermot Coughlan is praising the resilience of his side as they secured passage to Phase Two of this years Munster championship. Victory over Waterford in Lemybrien sees Clare guaranteed top spot in the Phase One standings ahead of next weekends final round game against Limerick. Daire Culligan's late goal sealed the 1-12 to 0-6 victory, with Waterford only scoring one point from play in the second half. Coughlan says they showed a brilliant attitude to get the job done

The manager of the Clare ladies footballers feels his side deserved to get the result to save their status in Division Three of the National League. A draw with Roscommon was enough to see them avoid relegation to the bottom tier, with the Connacht outfit notching a late controversial leveller to earn a share of the spoils. Chloe Moloney netted twice from the penalty spot while Joanna Doohan, Amy Sexton and Caoimhe Cahill also came up with vital late points. Manager Graham Shine says while it was a frustrating campaign, he is pleased to see it finish on a positive note.

A speed limit reduction could soon be implemented on a busy Clare road where professional drivers are said to be persistently flouting the law. It's come amid concerns raised over buses consistently speeding on the Tullvarraga Road near St Conaire's National School. Shannon Municipal District has confirmed it will carry out a speed survey on the route, following calls for the limit to be reduced to 30km/h. Shannon Fine Gael Councillor Tony Mulcahy believes it's a necessary intervention.

CCTV systems aimed at identifying the perpetrators of illegal dumping are set to be rolled out at two locations in Clare. The surveillance cameras will be installed at sites in Kilrush and in the east of the county in May as part of a pilot project. The local authority is set to open the process to public consultation in the coming weeks, with a view to rolling out more systems at blackspots countywide. Quilty Fianna Fáil Councillor Michael Shannon is hopeful it will make a meaningful difference. You can hear more on this story on Clare FM's Morning Focus this Monday from 9am.

Clare's pyrite affected homeowners are said in severe distress over delayed remediation appeals. Currently 14 households in the county have lodged appeals concerning the amount of compensation they received under the Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme. Bodyke Fine Gael TD Joe Cooney has expressed his concern in the Dáil surrounding the time frame in which people are waiting for responses , stating one household in particular are waiting almost 12 months. Junior Minister for Housing Chris O'Sullivan says the boards independence must be respected.

The Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District has suggested people should "take the law into their own hands" to combat an ongoing issue at a popular amenity. Whitegate Fine Gael Councillor Pat Burke has asked Clare County Council for a progress update on its attempts to take charge of Mountshannon Harbour amid reports of abandoned boats at the pier. The local authority says the harbour management has proved "challenging" as part of the harbour isn't registered, and claims it's liaising with Waterways Ireland on the matter. Councillor Burke says many of the boats are in a poor state of repair and are an eyesore for locals and visitors alike.

Construction of Clare's first ever publicly owned dog park is now underway. The Shannon Municipal District has confirmed that an appropriate site has been identified and that fencing works are now underway. The pilot project is expected to pave the way for more facilities to open in the Shannon Electoral Area in the near future. Ardnacrusha Fianna Fáil Councillor Rachel Hartigan says it's an exciting time.

Stephen Fletcher presents Beyond Belief for Sunday 29th March. He has an interview with the Bishop of Tuam, Limerick and Killaloe , Michael Burrows , after his 'Peregrinations' visiting parishes the length and breadth of his diocese . Stephen also talks to Revd Michael Mulqueen a Local Misister for the Clonfert Union of Parishes. Michael is currently ordained as a Deacon and will be oedained priest on Pentecost Sunday the 24th May.

Fr gerry Kenny leads our Sunday Prayer on the Sixth Sunday in Lent, Palm Sunday.

Communities across Clare are being urged to extra vigilant on home security following multiple break-in attempts in Clarecastle last weekend. It follows video footage circulating of four masked men attempting to gain access to homes in St Joseph's Terrace in the early hours of Sunday morning. The trend has been reflected throughout the county, with Gardaí investigating in similar incidents in Tulla, Killaloe, Shannon, Ennis and more. Mayor of Clare and Clarecastle Fine Gael Councillor Paul Murphy says it's vital residents have their guard up and that Gardaí are immediately informed of suspicous activity.

It's claimed the amount of roads funding granted for the Shannon Electoral Area has failed to take account of the volume of traffic in the region. Shannon Municipal District has been allocated €3.3m to maintain its roads under the municipal schedule of works scheme for 2026, with this funding up 14% on last year. Elected representatives claim however that the funds fail to take into account the wear placed on local and regional roads when incidents on the M18/N18 lead to diversions. Cratloe Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat O'Gorman believes it should be revisited.

The Department of Agriculture is being urged to intervene in an instance of dogs being kept in conditions described as "unacceptable", "cruel" and "heartbreaking in south-east Clare. It's after a video has circulated depicting four young greyhounds in a cramped space at a premises in Parteen. The animals can be seen wearing "anti-bark" muzzles which prevent them from drinking and panting as well as from barking. Speaking in the Seanad, Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews says action must be taken against the owner.

Tik Talkin' TY is the radio show created by Clare FM's TY Media Week 2026! It features students from all over the county in a radio show that they created. Guests include social media star Shane McCarthy, Sports pundit Marty Morrissey, Clare sports star Eimear Considine and so much more!

EvieB grew up immersed in music, shaped by a strong creative heritage and a family deeply rooted in the arts. Inspired by songwriters such as Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell, her work is driven by storytelling and emotional depth. With her father, renowned saxophonist Richie Buckley, and her grandfather, Peter O’Brien, a highly respected pianist, music has always been central to EvieB’s life. EvieB says about her new track Living In A Standstill “the song explores the feeling of being stuck in a rut, of questioning progress and direction in life. It speaks particularly to the uncertainty of pursuing a career in the creative industry, where the future can feel unpredictable and security hard to grasp. The track was inspired by conversations I’ve had with people across all ages and professions, which revealed just how universal this sense of unease and stagnation is. It’s a feeling that transcends career paths, prompting reflection on where it originates and how deeply it’s embedded in society”. EvieB has performed with and supported Irish music legends such as, Mary Black, Mundy and Mary Coughlan, and also shared the stage with artists such as Sharon Shannon, Cait O’Riordan, Camille O’Sullivan amongst others.

A special guided nature walk is taking place in Ennis this weekend, with a focus on the growing issue of invasive plant species and their impact on our environment. Ennis Tidy Towns has teamed up with plant ecologist Dr Frances Giaquinto for a walk through the woods at Lees Road this Saturday, where people can learn how garden plants are escaping into the wild and affecting biodiversity, soil and water quality. On Friday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was joined in studio by Dr Frances Giaquinto and Mary Howard from Ennis Tidy Towns.

A spectacular celebration of folk music is coming to Clare this June (Saturday, 20th June), as The Seeger Sessions Revival brings the sound and spirit of Bruce Springsteen’s iconic Seeger Sessions album to the stage at Glór in Ennis this June. Featuring a 13-piece band and a high-energy mix of folk, bluegrass, gospel and more, the show pays tribute to the legendary Pete Seeger. To tell us more, Alan Morrisseyspoke with Christopher Speer from The Seeger Sessions Revival. Photo (c) Seegar Sessions Revival Facebook

Cyclists are being invited to take on one of the most scenic challenges in the region this May, as the RNLI’s popular Lap of the Lake charity cycle returns to Lough Derg. With routes of 65 and 120 kilometres, the event will see participants travel through Clare, Tipperary and Galway—all while raising vital funds for the RNLI’s lifesaving work. Lough Derg RNLI Lifeboat Press Officer joined Alan Morrissey on Friday's Morning. Photo (c) RNLI

Potadóir, located in the Tracklands Business Park in Ennis, is a new space that combines a pottery teaching school, yoga studio, and craft/wellness outlet. Clare FM's, Alan Morrisey paid a visit to Potadóir, where Kevin Keane showed him around, before he guided him at the pottery wheel. Photo (c) potadoir.ie

A Clare businesswoman has been left devastated after her newly refurbished shop was broken into and ransacked...less than 24 hours after its grand opening! The incident happened at a Spar store in Blackwater near Parteen, where significant damage was caused and a number of items were stolen. Gardaí are now investigating. To tell us what happened and how she’s dealing with the aftermath, Alan Morrissey spoke with Alannah Barron on Friday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Barrons Blackwater Instagram

Clocks will go forward this weekend, bringing with it a grand old stretch in the evening. However, while some of us may enjoy the grand old stretch in the evening and 8pm sunsets, others struggle with the fatigue, irritability, and brain fog in the days following the transition. Some people – especially night owls – can find the adjustment period lasts for weeks. Ireland South Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly is one of those who wants to see the biannual clock changes ended. Sean, who has previously spoken about this issue on Morning Focus, has described the seasonal shift as an 'outdated practice' which has no justification in the modern world. We sent Caitlin Griffin from the Morning Focus team out to find out what the Clare public thinks. Photo (c) Alexas Potos From Pexels via Canva

A new report from Early Childhood Ireland paints a stark picture of the childcare crisis, with 59% of adults in Munster saying the government is not doing enough to address the shortage of Early Years places. In Clare alone, up to 1,195 children under the age of three are currently on waiting lists, while services are also struggling with staffing shortages and limited funding. To discuss what’s behind the numbers—and what it means for families locally—Alan Morrissey was joined on Friday's Morning Focus by Frances Byrne, Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland and Cathal Dillon, Shannon Family Resource Centre. Photo (c) Neustockimages from Getty Images Signature via Canva

It's feared an unexpected social housing development will lead to a rampant spate of anti-social behaviour in North Clare. In 2019, the local authority granted permission for the refurbishment of the Ennistymon Convent to encompass 30 residential units. It was initially expected that the project would be earmarked for older people, however, it's understood the properties are now intended for social housing. Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District and Lahinch Fine Gael Councillor Bill Slattery and Ennistymon Fianna Fáil Councillor Shane Talty say there are serious concerns about the location.

The Taoiseach claims the announcement of a new hospital in Raheen is a "positive development overall" for the Midwest. Responding to Shannon Sinn Féin Deputy Donna McGettigan in the Dáil, Micheál Martin has confirmed he knew about the Health Minister's decision to locate the facility at the Limerick site prior to the announcement. Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill has suggested that the campus could also be the location of the planned new emergency department down the line. The Taoiseach says the promise of additional services at Ennis Hospital will be of benefit to this county.

It’s a big year for tourism in North Clare, as Aillwee Cave marks 50 years since it first opened to the public. To talk about the journey and the celebrations ahead, Nuala Mulqueeney, Managing Director, Ailwee Burren Experience had a chat with Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus. Photo (c) Aillwee Burren Experience Facebook

With suicide continuing to affect so many young people across Ireland, one Clare woman is using her own lived experience to spark important conversations. Sheila McMahon, a mental health counsellor, has just published a powerful collection of poetry written during her teenage years while struggling with depression in hopes of raising awareness. Sheila spoke with Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus to tell her story. Photo (c) Mental health text from wooden blocks by Piotrekswat from Getty Images via Canva.

On this week's episode of The Future of Work, we focus on Trades & Craft Employment. Pat Flynn meets Aoife O’Malley who is founder of Design Bank based in Miltown Malbay in Co Clare. This feature, 'The Future of Work' is funded by the News Reporting Scheme.

There’s growing anger among family carers this week following the Government’s latest measures to tackle rising fuel costs. While some supports have been announced, many carers say they’ve effectively been left out—despite facing higher energy use at home and mounting bills. Joining Alan Morrissey on Thursday's Morning Focus to discuss this further was Karen Griffin from Kildysart, who is caring for her two daughters with additional needs.

They’ve become one of the country’s most loved live acts, known for their powerful blend of folk, rock and roots—and now Hermitage Green are getting ready to celebrate a huge milestone. The Limerick band will mark 15 years together with a very special homecoming gig at King John's Castle in their home city this May Bank Holiday weekend. Alan Morrissey was joined now by two members of the band—Dermot Sheedy from Clare and Barry Murphy on Thursday's Morning Focus.

Fionn Kiniry from Broadford is one of many incredible children who relies on the amazing Bumbleance service to travel to Crumlin Hospital, as he continues his journey with kidney issues. What could be a very difficult experience is made that little bit brighter, thanks to a service that brings comfort, care, and even smiles along the way. His story is at the heart of a beautiful Easter initiative happening locally one that’s all about giving back and supporting families just like Fionn’s. On Thursday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey was delighted to chat with Trina Cooney, organiser of fundraiser. Photo (c) Bumbleance.com

Ireland fans across the globe are gearing up for the Ireland Vs Czech Republic World cup play-off semi-final match this evening in Prague. Following show stopping wins against Portugal and Hungary Ireland are within a chance of making it to the qualification final which would be held in the Aviva should Ireland get the better of the Czech Republic. Clare native Shane Sexton joined Alan Morrissey to capture the electric atmosphere in Prague ahead of Ireland v Czech Republic. He shared what it’s like to be on the ground among travelling fans. Image © Balls.ie

We’re celebrating an extraordinary milestone in community service. Gertie Glennon from East Clare has been honoured with a Long Service Award for 50 years of dedication to the Irish Red Cross. She was among a group of remarkable volunteers recognised at a special national reception in the Mansion House in Dublin this past weekend. For five decades, Gertie has been at the heart of her community giving her time, skills and compassion to help those in need. Gertie joined Alan Morrissey on Morning Focus to share her story. Image © Irish Red Cross

A major community event is taking place in Lisdoonvarna this weekend, inviting locals to have their say on the future of their town. The Community Open Day will bring together residents, businesses, and groups to share ideas, review progress, and plan what comes next. And joining Alan Morrissey to tell us more was Cllr. Joe Garrihy. Image © Visit Clare

Local representatives from the east of the county are arguing they've been dealt an effective funding cut for local and regional roads maintenance. The Killaloe Municipal District has been allocated just shy of €7.4 million for the upkeep and repair of its roads network as part of Clare County Council's 2026 budget. It's a 3% increase on last year for the region which contains 28% of the county's local and regional roads, but local representatives claim it's a real terms reduction when inflation is taken into account. The funding was unveiled at this week's Killaloe MD meeting where roads were a dominant discussion topic, with proposals put forward for "cat's eyes" on major route, and funding for footpath repairs in a major town. Clare FM's Seán Lyons went along to the meeting and caught up with Maghera Fianna Fáil Councillor Pat Hayes and O'Callaghan's Mills Fine Gael Councillor Conor Ryan. Image © Geograph.ie

There’s some positive news this week for cancer patients here in County Clare. New arrangements mean that people undergoing treatment will now be able to have routine blood tests carried out locally, reducing the need for additional travel during what is already a difficult time. Alan Morrisey was joined to discuss this development by Antoinette Baker Bashua, a member of the HSE’s Regional Health Forum Mid-West. Image © Clare Fm