The chances of a white Christmas in the North West look slim.

That's according to Met Eireann who are forecasting dry conditions across the Christmas period.

The last white Christmas for most of the country came in the big freeze in 2010.

Speaking to Ocean FM, meterologist at Met Eireann Linda Hughes says it isn't likely to return:

There are further calls the Western Rail Corridor all the way from Sligo to Galway to be regarded as critical infrastructure that requires urgent government investment.

It comes following confirmation from Sligo County Council in recent weeks that the proposed greenway project on the line has been shelved.

Meanwhile, Irish Rail has previously indicated that it is preserving the rail line between Collooney and Clairemorris for future rail development.

Sinn Fein Sligo Leitrim TD Martin Kenny says while this creates the opportunity for major economic development and connectivity in the region, Government funding is key:

Three projects in Sligo are the big winners locally in the latest announcement of Town and Village renewal funding

The respective projects in Ballygawley, Cliffoney and Easkey have been awarded 300, 000 euro each.

Funding to the value of just under 50,000 has been allocated for projects in Rivestown and Strandhill.

No projects were successful in North Leitrim while in Donegal half a million has been allocated for works at the Castle Gardens in Dromboe woods which is situated in Ballybofey Stranorlar.

Cathaoirleacht of the Local Authority in Sligo Donal Gilroy says it's an early Christmas present for Sligo.

Meanwhile Junior Minister Frank Feighan says the funding will benefit the respective projects.

The Government is being blamed for the decline in families raising children through Irish in the Donegal Gaeltacht.

Figures from recent censuses and found the number of families raising children through Irish fell less than one percent from 2016 to 2022.

This is despite an apparent revival of the language in mainstream culture.

Clr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig says that there are a number of reasons for the fall and that the Government were warned to act long ago:

A former Fianna Fáil Senator and TD says the fallout come from the Presidential election campaign has severely damaged the Party Leadership.

John Ellis says it's highly likely that a possible party leadership challenge could be launched before St Patrick's Day.

The former Sligo Leitrim TD says the Taoiseach has burned a significant number of bridges over the years and that at present it seems there is appetite from many party members for change in the leadership structure.

The Leitrim based former politician says the current Justin Minister, Jim O Callaghan is now seen as likely successor to Michael Martin.

Part one of the Ocean FM Sports Awards 2025, in association with EJ Menswear, which were held in the Radisson Hotel in Sligo on Saturday, November 22nd.

Presented by Austin O'Callaghan & John Lynch.

Part two of the Ocean FM Sports Awards 2025, in association with EJ Menswear, which were held in the Radisson Hotel in Sligo on Saturday, November 22nd.

Presented by Austin O'Callaghan & John Lynch.

Part three of the Ocean FM Sports Awards 2025, in association with EJ Menswear, which were held in the Radisson Hotel in Sligo on Saturday, November 22nd.

Presented by Austin O'Callaghan & John Lynch.

Concern is being expressed in Manorhamilton over the safety of the bridge situated at Sean Mac Diarmada Street.

The issued was discussed at this week's meeting of the Manor Municipal District of Leitrim County Council.

Local Councillor Felim Gurn says it's time that all relevant landowners have been contacted regarding completing pedestrian works on the bridge.

Until this is complete he says there is the likelihood of somebody getting hut or badly injured

Urgent safety measures are needed along the L6104 road at Ranamore Coolaney, where the exposed Owenmore River presents a serious hazard to motorists.

The stretch of road, which leads to the N17, becomes slippery during frosty weather and heavy rainfall, with vehicles dangerously close to sliding into the fast-flowing river.

Cllr Mulvey has put the issue on the agenda for the upcoming municipal meeting, urging Sligo County Council to consider protective barriers or measures to ensure the safety of local commuters.

Speaking to Ocean Fm News Cllr Dara Mulvey says this stretch of road is a serious safety concern, and hopes the Council will take action to protect those who use it daily.