Playback Archives - Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport

This week on The Score…

Former Finn Harps manager Anthony Gorma looks ahead to the away games in the LOI for Harps and Derry City on Friday…

The Gaelic Life’s Michael McMullan runs his eye over this weekend’s GAA action…

Plus, one of Ireland’s only openly gay senior GAA players, Kevin Penrose of Aghyaran, tells his story of being accepted among his peers…

The post The Score – 28/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we break down the potential overhaul of the IS465 technical standards, address an alarming drop in local breast screening attendance, and check in on grassroots campaigns across the county.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our signature review of the morning papers, dissecting the top local and national headlines.

The Defective Blocks Crisis & IS465 Overhaul: Deputy Charles Ward of the 100% Redress Party joins Greg to discuss highly anticipated updates to the IS465 standard, which governs how affected properties are tested and processed. We also hear the heartbreaking account of a local homeowner who was plunged into severe distress after being issued completely incorrect information regarding the remediation option she had been granted.

Mystery Shopping Bags in Dungloe: In a bizarre but well-meaning turn of events, listener Sinead contacts the show. She believes someone accidentally left two full bags of shopping inside her unlocked car in Dungloe and is using the airwaves to try and track down the rightful owner.

Alarming Breast Screen Drop-off: Cllr Declan Meehan raises serious concerns regarding women’s health in the county. He calls on the HSE to immediately investigate why an alarming 40% of Donegal women who were invited to their very first breast screening appointment failed to attend.

Gaeilge and Coffee in Letterkenny: We highlight a fantastic new local initiative launched in Letterkenny this week. Coffee lovers can now secure discounts on their morning brew simply by placing their order in Irish, boosting everyday use of the language.

Mandatory High-Viz Debate: Clare County Councillor Pat Burke joins the show to discuss a motion he recently had passed at a council meeting, which formally calls on the government to make high-visibility clothing strictly mandatory for all pedestrians and cyclists on public roads.

Living with Lung Fibrosis: Tina McGlynn, who battles Lung Fibrosis, joins Greg to candidly discuss living with the chronic respiratory condition. She sheds light on the symptoms, daily challenges, and the vital support groups available for patients and families right here in Donegal.

The Unwavering Fight for Buncrana Pool: Roseena McLaughlin from the Buncrana Leisure Centre Committee provides an update on their ongoing campaign. Buncrana has been left without public swimming facilities for over a decade, and Roseena details the tireless work happening behind the scenes to pressure authorities for a state-of-the-art facility.

Stream the full episode and stay informed:

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 28/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we explore the demand for public dog amenities, deep frustrations within our healthcare services, a massive boost for Letterkenny tourism, and a major update on the sporting calendar.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the morning with our signature digest of the national and local newspapers, tracking the leading stories dominating the headlines today.

A Dog Park for Letterkenny?: Bronwyn Walsh joins Greg live in studio to advocate for a dedicated public dog park in Letterkenny. We open the phone lines to the community to debate the pros and cons—balancing the benefits of animal socialization and responsible pet ownership against the concerns over safety, upkeep, and public funding.

Escalating Action at Árd na Gréine Court: We turn our focus to Stranorlar, where escalating industrial action is taking place. Colm Porter, INMO Assistant Director of Industrial Relations, and local INMO representative Emma Callaghan join us in studio to detail the ongoing disputes over staffing, safety, and operational concerns at the care facility, and what it means for frontline staff.

Mapping the Gateway: A massive boost for local hospitality. Brian Gallagher (Director of the Station House Hotel) and Connor McEniff (Director of the Mount Errigal Hotel) drop by to officially launch the brand-new govisitletterkenny.ie web portal. They discuss how this collaborative initiative will centralize local tourism, events, and accommodation to market the town as the ultimate Northwest base.

McGuinness Cleared by CCCC: Our Sports Editor Oisín Kelly joins Greg to break down the major news coming from the GAA’s Central Competitions Control Committee (CCCC). Following a comprehensive review of the highly publicized on-field/on-screen fracas during the recent Donegal v Kerry clash, the committee has officially decided not to issue a sideline ban to Donegal manager Jim McGuinness.

Connection Without Alcohol: We speak to Cassie Jane about bringing her innovative social venture, Clann and Co, to Letterkenny. She outlines her mission to provide safe, welcoming, and vibrant social spaces where people can gather, connect, and enjoy a night out in a completely alcohol-free environment.

The Garden Clinic: As always on a Wednesday, Paul is in studio to answer all your seasonal gardening questions. From preparing your flowerbeds for the early summer bloom to dealing with stubborn weeds, Paul has the advice you need.

Stream the full episode and stay ahead of the local news:

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 27/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address the long-standing battle for Buncrana’s missing swimming facilities, healthcare costs for the vulnerable, major planning changes on the horizon, and the annual summer parking crisis on our coastlines.

Inside Today’s Episode:

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

The Buncrana Leisure Centre Debate: Following a fiery debate at a recent Donegal County Council meeting, we hold an extensive discussion on the future of the Buncrana Leisure Centre, which has now been closed for 11 years.

The Funding Realities: Cllr Fionán Bradley explains why the project was ranked last for refurbishment in a recent Swim Ireland report, noting that the council currently lacks the required matching funds to move the project forward, even if government grants were cleared tomorrow.

The Call for Action: Cllr Jack Murray pushes back, arguing that the council has already prioritised the infrastructure and demands that the Minister for Sport step up with direct capital funding. He highlights the cross-party frustration surrounding the delays.

Inishowen Left Dry: We look at a new grassroots campaign launched by locals who are deeply frustrated that there are currently no public swimming facilities available across the entire Inishowen peninsula, forcing families to travel to Derry or pay for private hotels.

Blister Pack Charges Query: A local carer contacts the show with an emotionally charged query, questioning why a local pharmacy is issuing extra monthly charges for the blister packs of a vulnerable lady battling cancer whom he looks after.

Community Garda Information: Garda Feena McManamon joins Greg live in studio to issue the latest security notices, witness appeals, and road safety updates affecting the Donegal division this week.

A One-Off Housing Boom?: Martin Markey, CEO of the Irish Hardware Association, joins the show to discuss upcoming planning legislation overhauls. He outlines how these sweeping policy modifications could streamline the system and potentially unlock the construction of thousands of one-off rural houses across the country.

Inishowen Gridlock: We speak to a representative from Foyle Coaches, who outlines the severe disruption that forced the cancellation of several key bus routes yesterday. Irresponsible and illegal parking by summer beachgoers completely blocked coastal roads—a perennial warm-weather headache that transport operators say has reached a breaking point.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 26/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on the DL Debate, Brendan Devenney reflects on Donegal’s win in Kerry with Highland’s big match pundit Brendan Kilcoyne, Gaelic life’s Michael McMullen and Radio Kerry commentator Tim Moynihan.

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

The post The DL Debate – 25/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we dissect the dramatic fallout from the Education Minister’s visit to Donegal, alongside crucial updates on local school campaigns, sporting triumphs, and a celebration of women in agriculture.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the show with our regular glance at the front pages, tracking the stories that are dominating local and national headlines this morning.

The Burke Family Confrontation: We dive into the controversial events of last Friday when members of Enoch Burke’s family cornered and challenged the Minister for Education, Hildegarde Naughton, during her school visits in Milford.

The Criticism: Deputy Charles Ward and Scoil Mhuire Parents’ Association member Donal Cullen voice their strong disapproval of the incident, criticising the family’s approach and highlighting the distress caused to the school communities.

The Defence: Enoch Burke’s mother, Martina Burke, joins Greg live on air to robustly defend her family’s actions, outlining why they felt it was necessary to confront the Minister directly over the handling of the ongoing case.

Donegal Triumphs Over Kerry: Our GAA analyst Brendan Kilcoyne is in studio to look back at a massive weekend of football action, reflecting on Donegal’s tactical victory over Kerry and previewing the hot topics lined up for tonight’s DL Debate podcast.

St. Eunan’s Campus Campaign: We get a direct update from St. Eunan’s College in Letterkenny following their intensive meeting with Minister Naughton on Friday. We hear how the Student Council brought the Minister face-to-face with their aging facilities as they continue their 30-year fight for a 37-classroom campus redevelopment.

A Field of Her Own: Shannon Porter of The Milk Bar, Carrigans, and IFA Chair Joe Sweeney are in studio to look ahead to a fantastic community initiative. They preview the “Field of Her Own” event taking place in Carrigans this Thursday, aimed at empowering and celebrating women across the agricultural sector.

Stream the full show and hear the exclusive interviews now:

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 25/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

A morning dominated by an extensive overnight emergency in Donegal Town, balanced with sharp political analysis and the celebration of true local heroes.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We begin with our daily scan of the front pages as the national and local papers hit the shelves.

Devastating Blaze at Cherrymore Kitchens: We lead with major breaking news out of Donegal Town. An extensive, destructive fire ripped through the manufacturing facility of Cherrymore Kitchens on the Ballyshannon Road overnight. Garry Martin, Donegal County Council’s Director of Services, joins Greg to outline the massive, hours-long response by six fire service units and nearly 60 personnel to contain the inferno. We have the latest updates on the structural damage and ongoing R267 road closures.

The Friday Panel: Greg is joined by John McAteer, India Kennedy, and Nicholas Crosson to unpack a heavy week of local and national news:

Letterkenny Active Travel Works: Is it a necessary evolution or localized gridlock? The panel debates whether the sweeping infrastructure works around Letterkenny are causing unacceptable disruptions or if it’s simply “short-term pain for long-term gain.”

Dáil Sanctions & By-Elections: The team analyzes the political fallout from the recent Dáil vote on imposing sanctions against Israel, as well as a look at the critical by-election battles unfolding today in Dublin and Galway.

The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We get a sneak peek at this week’s full-length podcast drop, featuring an exclusive sit-down interview with guest Joe Decks.

Fight for Aaron: We look ahead to a massive community event taking place in Donegal Town this Sunday. The town is rallying in support of young Aaron Langon and his family as he continues his brave battle with illness.

Highland Radio Community Heroes 2026: In a heartwarming segment, Sean Quinn joins Greg live in studio to officially unveil and celebrate this year’s much-deserved winners of the Highland Radio Community Heroes awards.

Stream the full Friday broadcast and listen back here:

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 22/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

What happens when the party stops, but the drinking doesn’t? This week, we sit down with well-known DJ and radio contributor Joe Decks for an incredibly raw, honest, and powerful conversation about his battle with alcohol addiction. From the early days of student life and the high-energy nightlife of the DJ booth, Joe details how a normal social habit quietly escalated into a dependency that threatened his relationships, his career, and his life.

Joe opens up about the reality of functioning alcoholism, the hidden warning signs, and the terrifying health crisis that saw him suffer four major seizures due to alcohol withdrawal. He shares the painful truth about recovery—admitting that his early stints in rehab were just to “shut people up”—and describes the exact moment he finally found true acceptance and the will to save himself.

Today, Joe is sober, focused on his music, and rebuilding his life with clarity and stability. Whether you are fighting your own battle, supporting a loved one, or just want to understand the reality of addiction, Joe’s story is a profound reminder that it is never too late for a new beginning.

Key Topics Discussed in This Episode:

The Slippery Slope: How casual college drinking and full-time retail work funded a lifestyle of drinking until 4 AM.

The Illusion of Control: Balancing radio work at Highland while hiding the growing impact of alcohol and avoiding the warning signs.

The Ultimate Wake-Up Call: Dealing with severe panic attacks and surviving four life-threatening alcohol withdrawal seizures.

The Reality of Rehab: Moving through treatments in Galway and Whiteoaks, dealing with relapses, and the difference between going for others versus going for yourself.

The Power of Support: The vital role of AA meetings, the support of family, and the impactful advice of former addiction counsellor Hugh McBride.

Playing the Tape to the End: The daily toolkit, routines, and mental exercises Joe uses to maintain his sobriety and navigate social environments safely.

A New Track: Finding confidence without alcohol, returning to music production, and embracing a future built on stability and contentment.

Quotes from the Episode:

“The third time of treatment… I had acceptance. I knew I could try again or die.”

“I think of our motto: ‘Play the tape to the end.’ I think of the result of that one drink.”

“Now, my confidence is growing… I have stability and contentment. I’m happy.”

Support Resources:

If you or someone you know has been affected by the themes discussed in this episode, support is available:

AA Ireland (Alcoholics Anonymous): www.alcoholicsanonymous.ie

HSE Drugs & Alcohol Helpline: Freephone 1800 459 459 or email [email protected]

White Oaks Rehabilitation Centre: www.whiteoakscentre.com

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 20: Joe Decks – Vinyl, Vodka and Me appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

In Business Matters this week, Chris Ashmore takes a look at a thriving glamping business in the heart of the West Donegal Gaeltacht.

At the award winning Glamping Rann Na Feirste, guests get the opportunity to stay in one of their luxury modern shepherds’ huts, each of which has a wood-fired hot-top outside.

Located in a quiet, sheltered hollow, it really is a little piece of paradise.

Glamping Rann na Feirste has received superb feedback. Indeed, it has a 4.9 out of 5 rating on AirBnB and is in the top 1% when it comes to reviews.

Eileen Gallagher has been telling Chris about coming back from London to set up the business, how it all began and how it is going from strength.

The post Business Matters – Ep 297: A piece of paradise at Glamping Rann Na Feirste appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on The Score…

We’re joined by former Finn Harps skipper to look ahead to tomorrow’s League Of Ireland games for Harps and Derry City – Keith also gives his thoughts on the new National League Third Tier Format.

Our GAA Analyst Brendan Kilcoyne will preview Kerry and Donegal’s All-Ireland Senior Football Championship clash in Killarney.

Plus, we hear from World Rally Championship driver Kris Meeke from the Toyota Gazoo Racing Team who have been testing in Donegal this week ahead of the upcoming Donegal International Rally…

The post The Score – 21/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.