Morning Mix with Alan Corcoran

With the Fleadh in full swing, Sergeant Eddie Wilde joins us to talk through the Gardaí’s policing operation for the festival, how to spot and avoid a new banking scam doing the rounds, and a reminder about road safety across Wexford—especially with busy towns, beach traffic, and distracted driving on the rise.

The heart of Wexford was alive with music, pride, and community spirit as Fleadh Cheoil 2025 officially got underway. I was down on the quay for the opening ceremony—here’s a full recap of the speeches, the sounds, and the standout moments that launched this week-long celebration of Irish tradition in unforgettable style.

Tattoo artist and muralist Nirman Kadel of Moksa Tattoo Studio has transformed South Main Street with a breathtaking new mural inspired by the legend of Loch gCarman. Self-funded and designed entirely by Nirman, the piece arrives just in time to welcome visitors for Fleadh Cheoil 2025. We chat with the artist about the myth behind the mural, his creative process, and what it means to give back to the town he calls home.

Breda Cahill, President of the Wexford Federation and Chair of the ICA Climate Action & Sustainability Committee, joins us to discuss the vibrant yarn bombing on the quay, a creative and inspiring initiative by the ICA ahead of this year’s Fleadh. Breda shares how this project combines art, community spirit, and sustainability.

Elizabeth Whyte, CEO and Executive Director of Wexford Arts Centre, joins us with a preview of what’s on at the Centre this August. She also discusses the National Campaign for the Arts and the ongoing call to secure and expand the Basic Income scheme for artists, highlighting why sustained support for the arts sector matters now more than ever.

As excitement builds in Wexford for Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2025, local TD George Lawlor joins us amid the preparations. We caught up with him on the ground to hear his thoughts on the impact of the Fleadh, community involvement, and what this major event means for the town.

In this episode, we meet three dedicated members of the RNLI team in Wexford, David, a crewman; Peter, the Operations Manager; and James, the Safety Officer. They share what drives their commitment, the realities of life-saving work at sea, and how the RNLI continues to protect lives along our coast. A tribute to courage, teamwork, and community spirit.

Emma Kavanagh, Head of Clinical Services at the Rutland Centre, joins us to unpack the latest report showing a surge in cocaine addiction across Ireland — including a sharp rise in the number of women seeking help. She also sheds light on the growing complexity of multi-addiction cases and what’s needed to support those in recovery.

Following the shocking assault of a 17-year-old girl in New Ross, where her hijab was forcibly removed, Councillor John Dwyer, Cathaoirleach of the New Ross Municipal District, joins us to condemn the racially motivated attack. He discusses the urgent need for stronger policing, better community integration, and the importance of standing up against racism in all its forms.

Following yesterday’s interview with the Peader McDonald from Save Ladies Island Lake campaign, local Councillor Ger Carthy joins the conversation to respond to growing concerns over pollution and the lake’s declining condition. He discusses the role of Wexford County Council, the challenges involved, and what steps are being taken, or need to be taken to protect this ecologically important site.