Playback Archives - Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport

On today’s show, we dive deep into the big debates affecting both the nation and the local streets of Donegal, plus a packed lineup of music and community spirit.

Greg is joined by Brid Curran (Solicitor), Cllr Patrick McGowan, and Paddy Rooney (Friends of LUH) to tackle the week’s heaviest headlines:

The Price of Neutrality: In light of Ireland’s contribution to the €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine, the panel asks where our “triple lock” stands and what our financial commitments mean for our neutral status.

Policing in Donegal: From daylight crime to persistent anti-social behavior, there is a growing concern over the lack of Garda visibility. Is the “thin blue line” getting too thin in the Northwest?

The Greg Hughes Podcast: Greg previews his latest sit-down with D:Ream frontman and DERRY native Peter Cunnah. We hear about the highs, the lows, and the music that defined an era.

Cór Ailigh: Members of the Letterkenny-based choir join us in-studio to discuss their upcoming concert. We’re even treated to a special live performance to kick off the weekend.

The James Russell Memorial: We get the details on an ambitious upcoming Tractor Run organized in memory of James Russell, raising funds for vital causes.

Shannen’s Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkin stops by to sift through the weird, the wonderful, and the viral stories trending across the county and beyond

The post The Greg Hughes Show Friday 27/02/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

“Things Can Only Get Better” was more than just a hit; it was the soundtrack to a generation’s optimism. But for D:Ream frontman Peter Cunnah, the journey to finding his own “better” has been a complex, lifelong pursuit of identity and home.

In this candid interview, Peter takes us behind the platinum records and the bright lights of the 90s. We explore a life story that began at the Nazareth House mother and baby home, moved through the streets of Derry, and eventually led to a global stage.

Now, at 60, Peter is reflecting on the “final pieces of the jigsaw”—from meeting his biological father and discovering a famous musical half-brother to settling into a new chapter of life overlooking Lough Swilly in County Donegal.

The Early Years: Being born in a mother and baby home and his upbringing in Derry.

The D:Ream Phenomenon: The highs, the lows, and the legacy of a global #1 hit.

A Journey of Discovery: The emotional process of navigating his adoption and finally connecting with his birth father.

A Musical Revelation: The incredible story of finding his half-brother, Jamiroquai bassist Stuart Zender.

The Autobiography: Why now is the right time to put his life story into words.

Coming Home: Why he chose the rugged beauty of Donegal to settle down.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast – Episode 8: Pop, Parents, and Peace: The Peter Cunnah Interview appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

For years, the public narrative around eating disorders has been framed almost exclusively as a female experience. But the reality is far more complex, and for Conor Nolan, that reality began in the most ordinary of places: a football pitch at the age of 11.

In this powerful bonus episode of the Greg Hughes Podcast, Conor joins us to share his decade-long journey with anorexia—a “silent passenger” that followed him from childhood into his twenties. We strip away the misconceptions and tackle the damaging gendered perceptions that often prevent men from seeking help or even recognizing their own struggle.

From the weight of perfectionism to the strength found in recovery, Conor discusses how he transitioned from a software engineer to a PhD researcher in the Psychology of Eating Disorders, dedicated to changing the clinical landscape for those who come after him.

The Early Seeds: How a drive for athletic excellence as a young boy in Ireland spiraled into a battle for control.

The Gender Stigma: Why the “female-only” stereotype of eating disorders is a dangerous barrier for men and boys.

The Concept of “Normal”: Inside the writing of his acclaimed book and why “normal” is a moving target in recovery.

From Powerlifting to Academia: How Conor rebuilt his relationship with his body and why he’s now pursuing a PhD to help others.

Finding a Voice: The importance of men speaking out to break the cycle of silence and shame.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast – Bonus Episode -The Silent Passenger: Conor Nolan on Men & Anorexia appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on The Score…

We have our weekly League Of Ireland chat with former Harps captain Declan Boyle as Finn Harps and Derry City are both back in action tomorrow night, we hear from ATU Donegal Freshers GAA manager Ryan McHugh and ATU ladies soccer manager Brid McGinty after successful weeks for those two teams.

Plus, we speak with Raphoe native Luke Witherow who is representing Ireland at the FIH Hockey World Cup qualifiers in Chile…

The post The Score – 26/02/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today’s show is heavy with both community advocacy and essential health insights. From the heart of St. Johnston to the latest in cardiovascular research, we dive deep into the stories impacting Donegal and beyond.

In the wake of this week’s tragic fatal collision, the St. Johnston community is standing together to demand change. We speak with local campaigners who have spent years highlighting the dangers of local routes.

The Plea: Residents discuss the “near misses” and the specific infrastructure improvements required to prevent further loss of life.

The Goal: Moving from mourning to action to ensure safety for the next generation.

Elaine Rooney, Support Manager with Family Carers Ireland, joins us to shine a light on the often-invisible work of home carers.

What’s On: A rundown of upcoming events designed to provide respite, information, and community for carers.

The Message: You don’t have to do it alone. Elaine highlights the resources available for those balancing care duties with everyday life.

You might think a dental check-up is just about your teeth, but Dr. Gerard Roarty joins us to explain why your gums are a window into your heart.

The Science: We discuss the link between oral inflammation and Cardiovascular Disease.

Prevention: Simple steps in dental hygiene that can reduce long-term systemic health risks.

Chris Ashmore drops by to give us a sneak peek at this week’s Business Matters podcast.

On the Agenda: A look at local entrepreneurship, the shifting economic landscape in the Northwest, and the key interviews you won’t want to miss.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Thursday 26/02/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

From high-level ministerial meetings to deeply personal stories of survival and loss, today’s episode covers the issues that matter most to Donegal.

Donegal Cancer Flights Update: Following a period of uncertainty regarding the Donegal PSO (Public Service Obligation), Mary Coyle, Manager of Donegal Cancer Flights and Services, joins us. She discusses her recent meeting with the Transport Minister and whether the proposed changes will protect vital access for patients.

The Power of Advocacy: Listener Tracey Kelly shares a harrowing account of her children’s recent hospitalization with RSV. Her story serves as a vital reminder to parents on the importance of “trusting your gut” and advocating for your children in a pressured healthcare system.

A Month on the Picket Line: We head to the Bord Bia offices where Donegal farmer Christine Friel marks one month of protest. We discuss the stamina required for such a stand and what she hopes to achieve for the farming community.

Circular Economy: Minister Alan Dillon outlines the government’s latest strategies to support a sustainable, circular economy and what these new plans mean for local businesses and consumers.

Oesophageal Cancer Awareness Month Jamie Timoney joins Greg to share his personal journey with Oesophageal cancer. It’s a candid look at the symptoms, the diagnosis, and the critical importance of early detection during this awareness month.

Texas Ollie: Filmmaker Emmitt Harte dives into the fascinating life of the legendary “Texas Ollie.” He discusses his new documentary that captures the spirit of a true Donegal character.

Tragedy in St. Johnston: We reflect on the devastating news of a road traffic collision in St. Johnston that claimed the lives of two 19-year-old men. Cllr Paul Canning joins us to express the shock of the local community and discuss the ongoing impact of road safety issues in the county.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Wednesday 25/02/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today’s program dives deep into the issues affecting Donegal this week, from high-level regional development and political shocks to concerning reports of public order offences in our coastal towns.

The Papers: We start with our daily look at the morning headlines.

The Arrest of Peter Mandelson: Former UK Labour activist Richard Logue joins us to discuss the breaking news surrounding the arrest of Peter Mandelson and what this means for the political landscape across the water.

The AIR Seminar: Over 200 local councillors have descended upon Inishowen today. Cllr Jack Murray tells us about the Association of Irish Regions’ annual training seminar and the significance of hosting such a large-scale event in the peninsula.

Launching the Arc Hub: A major milestone for regional innovation. Professor Gary Duffy joins Greg to discuss today’s launch of the Arc Hub, explaining how this facility will serve as a catalyst for local business and economic development.

Trouble in Dunfanaghy: Following recent incidents, Cllr Michael McClafferty expresses his concerns over public order offences in Dunfanaghy, arguing that the behavior must be “nipped in the bud” before it escalates further.

A Parent’s Terror: We hear a harrowing account from the parent of an 18-year-old boy who was forced to call his family in fear for his life after being targeted by a group in Dunfanaghy this past Saturday night.

The Reality of Road Safety: Listener Edel shares her experience of trying to look out for a fellow citizen. After politely advising a runner that his jacket wasn’t high-vis, she was met with a “torrent of abuse.”

Community Garda Information: Garda Sean Sweeney joins us for his regular slot to carrying the latest appeals and information from Donegal Gardai.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Tuesday 24/02/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on the DL Debate Brendan Devenney recaps Donegal’s win over Armagh with Aaron Kernan and Brendan Kilcoyne plus a review of the rest of the Gaelic Games action.

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

The post DL Debate – 23/02/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

On today’s episode, Greg takes a deep dive into local history, navigates the complexities of the healthcare system, and explores the changing landscape for students.

The Secrets of Ballymastoker Bay: Archaeologist John O’Raw joins the show to discuss a monumental find. New evidence suggests the wreck discovered at Ballymastoker is likely the HMS Saldanha, a Royal Navy frigate lost in 1811. We explore what this means for Donegal’s maritime history.

The Stand for Better Care: Listener Jason Quinn shares his harrowing story. Jason is currently refusing dialysis treatment as a protest against significant delays in seeing a consultant—a meeting necessary to change how his treatment is administered.

The Defective Concrete Block Scheme: As the fallout from the DCB crisis continues, Kathrina discusses her experience as one of the first to successfully appeal a downgrading on the scheme. We look at the legal and personal hurdles others might face when fighting for their homes.

Sport with Brendan Devenney: Our resident analyst Brendan Devenney wraps up a massive weekend of GAA action and gives us a sneak peek at what’s coming up on tonight’s DL Debate.

Granting Wishes: Kevin Clancy from Clare’s Wish Foundation joins Greg to put out a call to the people of Donegal. They are looking for new candidates whose dreams they can help turn into reality.

The Social Media Divide: Luke Saunders of Studyclix breaks down a surprising new survey. Despite being the “digital generation,” a majority of students in 4th, 5th, and 6th year are actually in favor of a social media ban for under-16s.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Monday 23/02/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

It’s the Friday Panel, and the sparks are already flying. This morning, Greg Hughes is joined by John McAteer (Tir Chonaill Tribune), Cllr Martin Harley, and Majella McFadden (Creeslough Community Association) to break down a week of heated headlines.

From the push for Uber in Donegal to the social media firestorm over local authority greetings, we aren’t holding back.

The “Uber” Debate: With taxi shortages reaching a breaking point, proposals for a ride-sharing revolution are on the table. Is it the answer to rural isolation, or a “race to the bottom” for local drivers?

The Ramadan Pushback: A look at why standard well-wishes from the local authority triggered a massive public outcry this week. Where is the line between inclusivity and public sentiment?

SNA Cuts Paused: Relief for parents and teachers as proposed cuts to Special Needs Assistants are put on ice. We ask: is this a victory, or just a stay of execution?

The Big Interview: A preview of this week’s Greg Hughes Podcast featuring an intimate and moving conversation with Maeve and Ian Gallagher.

Arts & Culture: Writer Antóin Beag Ó Colla joins us to discuss his groundbreaking new film centered on a trans teen’s journey within the Gaeltacht.

Shannen’s Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkins stops by to dissect the viral trends and social media storms you might have missed.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Friday 20/02/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.