Morning Mix with Alan Corcoran

Poetry Day Ireland is fast approaching on May 1st, and we're thrilled to have Anne Tannam, Poet-in-Residence at Poetry Ireland, joining us today. Anne is the spokesperson for the event and is looking forward to a day filled with poetry from across the country. 

I’m delighted to welcome back Emma Hewlett to the show. Listeners might remember her from last summer when she joined us to chat about the Wexford Garden Trail Podcasts. Today, she’s back to talk about a special upcoming event called 'Nature Speaks: In Quest of Good Health', a free gathering taking place on April 13th at the beautiful Conservatory at Kilmokea, where seven speakers will explore the powerful connection between nature and well-being. 

Oxfam Ireland and An Post have teamed up to launch a free donation collection service. Customers can now order a free bag online, fill it with their unwanted things and have it collected at their home and brought to an Oxfam charity shop. Joining me to talk about this initiative is Mark Sweeney, Donated Goods Strategy Manager for Oxfam Ireland. 

Now we’re joined by Independent Cllr. Michael Sheehan, to discuss some of the key issues affecting communities here in Wexford. From ongoing concerns around the Local Property Tax to developments of a potential new IPAS Centre in New Ross, and of course, the continuing challenges around local housing

Joining us now is Ger Hyland, President of the Irish Road Haulage Association. Ger has been vocal about the growing concerns among hauliers regarding road safety in Ireland. He’s here to discuss these issues, the challenges facing truck drivers, and what can be done to make our roads safer for everyone. 

The newly imposed U.S. tariffs could have a significant impact on Ireland. With Tánaiste Simon Harris urging calm and warning against retaliatory measures amid rising transatlantic tensions, Senator Cathal Byrne joins us now to share his perspective on where Ireland stands, what’s at stake for our economy, and how the government should respond. 

A devastating fire has destroyed the Blackwater Scouts’ beloved Scout Den, leaving the group without a home. But in the face of this challenge, the Scouts are determined to rebuild with the help of their community. Joining me now are Denis O’Connor and Josh Corrigan from Blackwater Scouts to discuss the impact of the fire, what it means for the group, and how people can get involved in their efforts to restore this vital space for young scouts.

Get ready for an unforgettable night of music! Ger O’Donnell and Trevor Sexton, two incredible vocal powerhouses, are set to perform live at Rackards of Killiane tomorrow, Friday, April 4th, at 8 PM. Ger joins me to talk about the show, what fans can expect, and his musical journey.

Interested in a career in Animation and VFX? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity! A free workshop and panel discussion at the National Opera House on April 5th-6th (10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Festival Room) will offer expert insights into these dynamic industries. To discuss what attendees can expect are Suzanne McKenzie Young, Coordinator of the Weekend Course, and Ben Klimmick, partner at Danish animation company Saurus.

This weekend, Wexford pays tribute to the legendary Pecker Dunne with a special festival celebrating his lasting impact on Irish music and culture. A gifted singer, storyteller, and musician, Pecker’s legacy continues to inspire generations. Joining me in the studio to discuss his life, music, and the festival in his honor are his son, Stephen Dunne, along with folklorist Michael Fortune and musician Matty Murphy.