Playback Archives - Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport

Today we address a major EU regulatory clampdown on the health sector, rural bin collection withdrawals, data privacy complaints generated by AI, a centenary celebration for a landmark Buncrana business, and controversial bans on our coastlines.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our thorough daily review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning.

The Battle over Vitamin Regulation: We dive into a major regulatory row as the EU proposes strict new laws aimed at lowering the maximum permitted potency levels for everyday vitamins and supplements. Health shop owner Finn Murray joins the show to explain why this is a negative move for consumer choice, outlining a massive online petition fighting the changes.

Rural Refuse Services Withdrawn: Cllr Martin Scanlon raises a burning issue for rural households after certain waste collection companies advised customers they are withdrawing services from some areas. While the operators blame poor road conditions, Cllr Scanlon firmly believes the decisions are driven strictly by commercial motives.

The AI Data Complaint Surge: Graham Doyle of the Data Protection Commission (DPC) reveals a staggering 45% increase in complaints received by the watchdog. Fascinatingly, he notes that a significant number of these submissions are now being entirely drafted using AI, resulting in complaints that are frequently muddled and entirely off-point.

The Portsalon Pier Jumping Ban: A controversial ban on pier jumping at Portsalon has sparked intense local debate. Cllr Ali Farren weighs in on the issue, demanding that Donegal County Council formally clarify whether this prohibition represents official local authority policy moving forward.

A Century of Grants Shoes: Siobhán Stapleton joins Greg to reflect on the incredible history of Buncrana’s iconic Grants Shoes. She marks a phenomenal milestone as the third-generation family business celebrates 100 years on Main Street with a special customer appreciation day this weekend.

Tackling Illegal Dumping: Minister Alan Dillon joins the show to outline new, robust legislative measures introduced by the government to clamp down on fly-tipping. We also get localized feedback on the plan from Gerard McCormack of Letterkenny Tidy Towns.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore stops by to preview this week’s Business Matters podcast, catching us up on all the essential commercial and economic news shaping the Donegal landscape.

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 02/07/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address illegal dumping impacting local business in Letterkenny, escalating scooter safety concerns, a vital water infrastructure upgrade for Letterbrick, and the exciting launch of an upcoming listener getaway to sunny Spain.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with a thorough review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning.

Port Road Dumping Frustrations: Letterkenny businessman James Molloy, who runs the popular Brosef Coffee dock on the Port Road, joins the show. He voices his growing frustration over persistent illegal dumping right on his business’s doorstep and slams the local authority for a perceived lack of enforcement action.

The Scooter Safety Push: Cllr Mícheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig joins Greg to discuss escalating e-scooter safety concerns. He highlights severe anxieties raised by local residents regarding reckless riding and calls for stricter regulations to protect pedestrians on our footpaths.

Major Water Investment for Letterbrick: Deputy Pat “the Cope” Gallagher takes to the airwaves to warmly welcome a substantial new infrastructure investment. The funding is secured to significantly upgrade and future-proof the local water supply for residents across the Letterbrick area.

Venezuelan Earthquake Crisis: We speak to Donegal-based Venezuelan native Antonio Rodriguez following the devastating earthquakes that have struck his home country. Antonio shares firsthand accounts of the impact on families and makes a heartfelt appeal to the people of the Northwest to back international rescue and relief efforts.

Jigsaw Youth Mental Health Report: Dr Joseph Duffy, CEO of the youth mental health charity Jigsaw, alongside former service user Rachel, joins the studio to break down the key findings of their 2025 Annual Report, highlighting the surging demand for youth counseling services across Donegal.

Misspelled Irish Road Signs: Local listener Dara O’Neill contacts the show to highlight a series of glaring spelling errors on official Irish-language road signs across the county. He calls on Donegal County Council to urgently audit and rectify the signage to protect the integrity of the language.

Highland in the Sun Launch! Country music star and presenter David James joins Greg in-studio for the highly anticipated launch of the ‘Highland in the Sun’ trip heading to Torremolinos next May. He breaks down the incredible travel deals, artist lineup, and booking details exclusively available to our listeners.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 01/07/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address high intervention rates in Donegal’s maternity care, a critical pre-budget appeal for local dementia services, ongoing legal stalemates in the justice system, and a celebration of live music hitting the streets of Letterkenny.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our thorough daily review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning.

LUH Maternity Intervention Rates Spark Concern: Krysia Lynch of Aims Éire joins the show to discuss alarming new trends at Letterkenny University Hospital. We analyze the high rates of Caesarean sections and medical inducements at the hospital, discussing what these figures mean for maternal health trends and long-term outcomes for mothers and babies in the Northwest.

Dementia Services Funding Fight: Carol Molloy, Northwest Operations Manager at Alzheimer’s Ireland, joins Greg to outline the organization’s crucial pre-budget proposals. She makes the case for a significant injection of state funding to support vulnerable families dealing with dementia across Donegal.

The Legal Aid Impasse: Donegal solicitor Frank Dorian stops by to discuss the escalating tension between regional solicitors and the Minister for Justice. He breaks down the current stalemate over a proposed new payment model and warns how the stand-off could severely disrupt local court schedules.

Sweeping Changes to Rural Planning: Cllr Paul Canning joins the show to preview highly anticipated modifications to rural planning regulations heading before Cabinet. He outlines what these shifting rules will mean for families hoping to build one-off homes in rural Donegal.

Community Garda Information: Garda Gráinne Doherty delivers this week’s essential community update, sharing the latest road safety alerts, home security notices, and active witness appeals from across the Donegal division.

Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival Preview: We close out the show with an exciting preview of the Letterkenny Blues and Roots Festival. Festival Director Mark Black fills us in on the massive five-day lineup, and we are treated to a brilliant live performance in-studio by Jack McHale of Delta Fuse.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 30/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

On tonight’s DL Debate Pauric Hilferty is joined by Highland Radio GAA analyst Brendan Kilcoyne reviewing Donegal’s exit from this years championship. Michael McMullan will also review the weekends quarter finals.

The DL Debate in association with Sara’s Kitchen at Sister Sara’s Letterkenny:

The post The DL Debate 29/6/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address the ongoing fight for answers in the Creeslough tragedy, an urgent warning from one of the country’s biggest music stars, a looming VAT hike for the hospitality sector, and local parking frustrations.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with a look at the main stories breaking across the front pages of today’s newspapers.

The Creeslough Inquiry Block: Donna Harper, who tragically lost her 14-year-old daughter Leona in the Creeslough explosion, joins the show. She reacts to the Minister for Justice effectively ruling out the establishment of a public inquiry until the current criminal investigation has fully concluded, sharing the family’s ongoing frustration in their quest for answers.

A Lifeline for Hospitality: With the highly anticipated VAT reduction for food-led hospitality and hairdressing set to come into effect, Minister Peter Burke joins Greg to discuss the government’s economic strategy. He outlines how dropping the rate from 13.5% down to 9% is designed to inject vital viability back into local pubs, hotels, and restaurants facing soaring operational costs.

Nathan Carter’s Warning to Fans: Country music sensation Nathan Carter issues a vital warning to his fanbase following a shocking online scam. He discusses the devastating case of a vulnerable fan in Britain who was swindled out of tens of thousands of pounds by fraudsters posing as him online.

The DL Debate Preview: Pauric Hilferty stops by to preview this evening’s DL Debate podcast, reflecting on a massive, action-packed weekend of local GAA championship fixtures.

The Struggle for Small Festivals: Musician and former festival organizer John Muldowney reflects on the immense modern-day challenges of keeping independent, small-scale music festivals alive in Ireland, citing soaring insurance costs and logistical hurdles.

The Danger of AI Pet Care: We look at a worrying new survey revealing that a growing number of pet owners are turning to Artificial Intelligence tools for veterinary and pet care advice, sparking strict warnings from animal welfare experts not to replace professional veterinary care with algorithms.

Donegal Town Camper Van Outrage: Cllr Jimmy Brogan addresses mounting public anger from residents and business owners over persistent, illegal, and obstructive parking by visiting camper vans across Donegal Town, calling for stricter enforcement and better-dedicated facilities.

Alcohol Forum Ireland Rebrands: Paula Leonard joins the studio to discuss the major rebranding of Alcohol Forum Ireland, outlining the organization’s evolving mission to reduce alcohol-related harm and support families across the region.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 29/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address critical national policy rebellions, an unexpected summer lightning storm that shook the county, local musical ambitions, and a packed debate on our Friday Panel.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Dr Joe Kelly, Former Councillor Nicholas Crossan, and Sinn Féin Councillor Dakota Nic Mheanman join Greg in-studio for an expansive debate on the biggest issues of the week:

Climate vs. The Weather: The panel kicks off with a lively, polarizing discussion on our shifting summer patterns, climate change, and differing views on what the future holds for Ireland’s environment.

The government Backbench Rebellion: Our guests look at the widening cracks within government unity, discussing the mounting backbench pushback against the leadership’s stance on abortion legislation revisions and proposals to scrap the constitutional Triple Lock neutrality protection.

The Decriminalisation Debate: The panel hashes out the newly published recommendations to decriminalize the personal possession of drugs, weighing a health-led approach against community safety concerns.

The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We catch a sneak peek of this week’s long-form podcast episode, featuring an exclusive, unfiltered archive clip with legendary former Fine Gael TD and Minister of State, Dinny McGinley, reflecting on his 34 years at the coalface of Irish politics.

The Night the Sky Lit Up: Kenneth Conlan from the Donegal Weather Channel joins Greg to explain the science behind last night’s spectacular and unrelenting thunderstorm over Donegal. He breaks down exactly what atmospheric conditions triggered the intense, continuous spells of thunder and lightning that kept the county awake.

Chasing a Dream with Lewis Capaldi: Talented local musician Amy O’Connor joins the show to share the incredible story behind her viral social media campaign. She talks about the massive groundswell of public support she’s receiving in her bid to secure the opening slot for superstar Lewis Capaldi later this year.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 26/06/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

What does it take to survive 34 years at the coalface of Irish politics?

In this episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, we are joined by former Fine Gael TD and Minister of State, Dinny McGinley, for an unfiltered look back at a remarkable life and career.

Born and raised in the West Donegal Gaeltacht, Dinny spent his early years as a teacher and principal at Scoil Chonaill in Bunbeg before making the leap from the classroom to Leinster House in 1982. He went on to win nine consecutive general elections, navigating the extreme highs and brutal lows of public life, culminating in his appointment as Minister of State for Gaeltacht Affairs.

We dive into how the political landscape has fundamentally shifted since he first entered the Dáil—including the relentless pace of the modern 24/7 news cycle and the toxic edge of social media. Dinny also shares his perspective on Fine Gael’s current standing in Donegal, the realities of stepping away from power, and what life looks like after politics.

An honest, insightful conversation with one of Donegal’s longest-serving public representatives.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 26: From Bunbeg to the Dáil: The Dinny McGinley Interview appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on The Score…

Keith Cowan joins us for our weekly League Of Ireland chat ahead of this weekend’s games for Finn Harps and Derry City.

We also hear from inside the Derry City camp ahead of their return to the Ryan McBride Brandywell tomorrow night.

Chris Ashmore speaks to new Swilly Rovers manager Columba O’Donnell as the club aim to make a resurgence under a new management set-up.

Plus, Tug of War Ireland Chairperson & President Martin Egan talks about ambitions to get the sport back to the Olympic Games in 2032…

The post The Score – 25/06/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address the newly opened accessible amenities in Letterkenny, pushback against a proposed hotel tourist tax, rural housing matching failures in Inishowen, and road safety concerns in Burtonport.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off with our thorough review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning.

Changing Places Facility Opens in Letterkenny: Aaron Daly from Changing Places Ireland joins the show to discuss the newly opened, highly anticipated fully accessible facility at the Letterkenny Retail Park. He explains the critical need for more of these advanced units nationwide, why a specialized access card is required for security, and breaks down the reasoning behind the associated administrative charge.

The Tourist Tax Debate: Conor McEniff of the Mount Errigal Hotel strongly voices his concerns regarding newly supported moves to introduce a visitor levy on hotel rooms. He argues that a local tourist tax has not been fully thought out, lacks long-term strategic vision, and could cause severe economic damage to Donegal’s competitive tourism sector.

The Carndonagh Empty Homes Failure: Local listener Paul contacts the show to highlight a deeply frustrating vacant housing development in Carndonagh. A previous purchase agreement between Donegal County Council and a private developer completely collapsed, expressing outrage that perfectly good properties are sitting empty in the middle of a severe local housing crisis.

Burtonport Road Safety Appeals: Local listener Gerard takes to the airwaves to shine a light on escalating traffic dangers in Burtonport. He reiterates urgent, long-standing community calls for a proper footpath to safely service the local schools, residents, and passing trade.

From Glastonbury to Crime Fiction: Acclaimed author and music industry veteran Paul Charles drops into the studio to discuss his gripping new McCusker Mysteries crime novel, Hi Love, You Just Dropped Your Glove. He also treats listeners to fascinating stories from his storied career working alongside legendary musicians and booking the iconic Acoustic Stage at the Glastonbury Festival.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore stops by to preview the latest episode of the Business Matters podcast, bringing us a comprehensive wrap-up of the essential commercial and economic news shaping the Donegal business landscape this week.

Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news:

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 25/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address urgent road safety concerns outside a Donegal national school, a significant legislative milestone for grieving parents across the border, crucial regional healthcare updates, and a controversial parting reflection on the Defective Blocks Scheme.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our comprehensive review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning.

Road Safety in Lettermacaward:  National School Principal Ciarán McDevitt and Cllr Brian Carr join the show to spotlight critical traffic and safety hazards facing students in the village. They outline the immediate infrastructure changes needed to protect children during the morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up.

Baby Loss Certificates Launched: Melissa Crockett joins us to welcome the official introduction of the Baby Loss Certificate scheme in Northern Ireland. She discusses the profound emotional importance of this new legislation, which offers formal, official recognition to parents who experience a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.

Regional Health Forum Updates: Cllr Declan Meehan breaks down the latest progress reports from his recent attendance at the Regional Health Forum. He shares crucial timelines on the development of the new Surgical Hub at Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) and details his efforts raising the critical state of dental screening programs in our national schools.

A Controversial Council Farewell: Outgoing Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, Paul Canning, reflects on his intensive year in office, the busy local government agenda, and the weight of the civic role. However, his parting comments spark immediate debate as he suggests that a shortfall in funding experienced by some homeowners in the Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme may be driven by property upgrades rather than basic remediation costs.

In the Garden: We close the show with our resident gardening expert, Paul McLaughlin, who takes to the airwaves to answer listener questions, offering seasonal tips, plant care advice, and solutions for your summer blooms.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 24/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.