Morning Mix with Alan Corcoran

Pat O’Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal, who’s voicing serious concern over the ripple effects of President Trump’s tariffs. With global trade tensions mounting, Irish farmers are feeling the pressure—especially when it comes to key export markets like China. Pat breaks down what’s at stake for Irish agriculture and why these tariffs are triggering alarm across the farming community.

The Saw Doctors have teamed up with the RTÉ Concert Orchestra to breathe new life into their beloved anthem "Same Oul' Town." The reimagined version, performed by Davy Carton and Leo Moran on last Saturday’s Tommy Tiernan Show with conductor Gavin Murphy, struck a powerful chord with fans. Now set for release as a single, the collaboration blends rock with orchestral elegance.

What’s dominating conversation in The Faythe and surrounding areas right now is the proposed demolition of historic homes to make way for a new housing development. With protests ongoing, tensions are rising over what’s seen by many as the erasure of a cherished part of Wexford’s architectural and community heritage. Alan visited the area this morning to speak directly with residents about their fears, frustrations, and hopes for a better solution.

Fine Gael Senator Cathal Byrne, who has welcomed a significant €5.57 million funding injection for South East Technological University (SETU). The funding, announced by Minister Patrick O’Donovan, aims to upgrade research equipment and infrastructure, bolstering SETU’s capacity to support innovation and meet the evolving R&D needs of Irish industry. Senator Byrne shares what this means for students, researchers, and the wider South East region.

Councillor Michael Sheehan, who has been at the forefront of opposition to An Post’s controversial plan to move the New Ross Post Office from its historic home on Charles Street to a proposed new location inside SuperValu. Despite previous assurances that the service would stay put, recent developments have stirred concern and frustration among locals.

They’ve gone from local gigs to national acclaim in what feels like the blink of an eye — Irish trio Kingfishr are capturing hearts with their unique sound and soaring success. With their hit single ‘Killeagh’ climbing to #2 on the Official Irish Singles Chart and a major headline show at Dublin’s 3Arena on the horizon, the band joins us to reflect on their journey and what lies ahead.

It’s Youth Work Ireland Week, and FDYS is celebrating with a packed schedule of events that put young people front and centre. From a pop-up Youth Café in Redmond Park to a Youth Mental Health celebration at Wexford Racecourse, the week is all about empowerment, connection, and support. Joining us now is Kieran Donohoe, CEO of FDYS, who’s calling in from Dáil Éireann where he’s spending the day with five young people from the organisation.

National Pyjama Day 2024 was a huge success, with communities across the country coming together in their comfiest sleepwear to support a great cause. In Wexford alone, over €7,150 was raised! Joining us now is Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland, to tell us how these funds will be used to support children and make a real difference in their lives.

Wexford County Council has just launched a brand-new website aimed at helping rescue dogs find their forever homes. It’s a heartwarming initiative that makes it easier than ever for people to adopt and give a second chance to dogs in need. Joining us to share more about the project is Hugh Maguire, Administrative Officer with the Environment Section of Wexford County Council.

The recent HIQA report into non-CE marked springs used in spinal surgeries at Temple Street has raised serious concerns about patient safety. The findings have sparked an urgent conversation about medical standards and the potential risks to patients. To dive deeper into this issue, we’re joined by David Cullinane, Sinn Féin's health spokesperson, who will discuss the report’s implications and what steps need to be taken to ensure patient safety in our hospitals.