Playback Archives - Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport

This week on The Score…

We have reaction from this weeks homecoming reception for European gold medallist Mark English, Keith Cowan joined us to preview Ireland’s game in Kosovo, Finn Harps tie with Treaty United in the First Division and Letterkenny Rovers latest fixture in the National League plus as part of Highland’s One Day, Many Voices celebration we hear from former Finn Harps defender Luca Asokuh who talks about his first experience watching GAA, his daughter Abigail’s journey in the sport and his hopes for Finn Harps if a takeover occurs.

The post The Score – 24/09/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

On Business Matters this week, Chris Ashmore looks at geothermal energy, and also the fortunes of one local chamber of commerce that is experiencing a period of rapid growth.

First up, mention renewable resources and wind and solar power spring to mind but what about geothermal energy – tapping into heat that is beneath the ground.

This is something you are going to here much more about in the years ahead. Geothermal energy, essentially a natural resource of heat energy from within the Earth that can be captured and harnessed for cooking, bathing, space heating, electrical power generation, and other uses.

Lots is going on in terms or research and developing geothermal projects. Supported through the PEACEPLUS programme and managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), GEMINI is a four-year cross-border initiative exploring how geothermal energy can help decarbonise heat and reduce greenhouse gas emissions across the island of Ireland.

Chris has been finding out more from Dr Aoife Braiden, a Director at RML, one of the 15 partners in the GEMINI Project.

Plus, later in the programme, he gets an update on what’s happening at Ballybofey and Stranorlar Chamber of Commerce. He’s been speaking with Business Office Manager, Shane Deery about events, networking and the big increase in membership.

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Today we examine Buncrana’s drive toward national autism-friendly accreditation, family support in addiction recovery, major reservations over housing redress schemes, media diversity initiatives, and political history.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the programme with our daily scan of the regional and national headlines breaking across the newspapers today.

Buncrana’s Ambition for Autism-Friendly Accreditation: William Nester of AsIAm and Doreen Friel of iCARE join Greg to discuss Buncrana’s campaign to become a nationally accredited Autism-Friendly Town. They outline the community measures, business training, and accessibility changes needed to create an inclusive environment for autistic individuals and their families.

Supporting Families in Addiction Recovery: Victoria Coulter of Well Ireland drops in to discuss an upcoming specialized seminar designed for families supporting loved ones through addiction recovery. Victoria emphasizes the need to provide mental health resources, coping strategies, and peer support networks for family members navigating the recovery journey.

Defective Concrete Block Scheme for Social Housing: Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn and Deputy Charles Ward react to government announcements extending defective concrete block redress to social housing stock. Both deputies express severe reservations regarding scheme delays, funding shortfalls, and lingering bureaucratic hurdles facing affected local authorities and tenants.

One Day, Many Voices Initiative: Reporter Ryan Brolly is in-studio to highlight the One Day, Many Voices project, aimed at amplifying diverse perspectives across Irish media. Ryan shares an exclusive extract from his interview with Senator Eileen Flynn, discussing Traveller rights, political representation, and social inclusion.

Brian Cowen – Anatomy of a Taoiseach: Academic and author Professor Gary Murphy joins Greg to discuss his new book, Brian Cowen: Anatomy of a Taoiseach. Professor Murphy offers a reassessment of Brian Cowen’s political career and 1,036 days in office, exploring the decisions, banking crisis pressures, and EU-IMF bailouts that defined his tenure.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore delivers today’s commercial update and previews the latest topics featured in this week’s Business Matters podcast.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 24/09/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

The Donegal Masters were crowned All-Ireland Champions after a dramatic victory over a star-studded Dublin side in Cavan earlier this month.

A last-gasp Donegal goal rescued the game at the end of normal time for Eddie Crawford’s team.

The sides couldn’t be separated after extra-time and, after 17 minutes of over-time, Paddy McNulty stepped up to kick the sudden-death winner much to the delight of the Donegal contingent.

Brendan Devenney hosted a special DL Debate podcast to get the thoughts of a number of players involved in the historic win including match-winner Paddy McNulty, Gerard McBrearty, Conor McShane, Brian McLaughlin, John Joe O’Shea and Damien Browne..

The post DL Debate – Donegal Masters All-Ireland Special appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address the highs and lows of building a business abroad, alarming rejection rates for youth mental health services in Donegal, cultural vandalism, local parking changes, and dangerous driving in Inishowen.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily review of the regional and national headlines breaking across the newspapers today.

Life as an Emigrant Entrepreneur: We continue our coverage on Irish emigration with Raphoe native Joe McFadden, who moved to France 13 years ago. Joe reflects on building two successful businesses abroad, weighing the highs and lows of living in France against the opportunities—and obstacles—he would have faced staying in Ireland.

Calls for Inquiry into Donegal CAMHS Rejections: Councillor Declan Meehan discusses alarming official figures revealing that nearly half of all youth mental health referrals to CAMHS in Donegal are being rejected. Cllr Meehan highlights staggering rejection rates across North Donegal and calls for an urgent independent review and audit to determine whether referrals are being triaged on clinical need or strictly rationed due to resource deficits.

Welcoming the New Bishop of Derry: The newly installed Bishop of Derry, Michael Router, joins Greg for his first radio interview following his weekend ordination. Bishop Router reflects on his installation ceremony, his vision for the diocese, and the spiritual and community challenges facing parishes across the North West.

New Parking Charges at An Grianán Theatre: Listener Connie calls in to voice frustration following the introduction of new parking tariffs at the An Grianán Theatre car park in Letterkenny. Connie discusses the financial impact on frequent theatergoers, local workers, and community groups utilizing town center facilities.

Raising Awareness for Lesser-Known Gynecological Cancers: Dr Michael McCarthy joins Greg to launch a crucial public health campaign aimed at spotlighting symptoms and early detection methods for lesser-known gynecological cancers, encouraging women to recognize early warning signs and seek medical advice without delay.

Outrage After Vandalism at Buncrana Pantomime Society: Cathy and Edel from the Buncrana Pantomime Society drop into the studio following a sickening break-in and act of vandalism at their premises. They outline the severe destruction caused to hand-painted stage backdrops and equipment, detailing the emotional and financial blow to volunteers ahead of their upcoming production season.

Reckless Driving Footage in Inishowen: Listener Daire calls in to describe shocking dashcam footage capturing an extremely dangerous high-speed undertaking maneuver on roads in Inishowen, urging motorists to exercise restraint and calling for stronger road safety enforcement.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 23/09/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address local community safety planning, the youth emigration crisis, diplomatic media feuds in the US, public safety updates, and unveil Highland Radio’s overall winner for the A New Local Hero talent search.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily scan of the regional and national front pages, tracking the top news, economic updates, and political stories breaking today.

Donegal Local Community Safety Action Plan: Councillor Gerry McMonagle joins Greg to invite the public to take part in consultations for the Donegal Local Community Safety Action Plan 2027–2030. Cllr McMonagle outlines how local residents can help shape policing priorities, anti-social behaviour measures, and community safety initiatives across the county.

Youth Emigration & Economic Pressures: Grace McManus of the National Youth Council of Ireland breaks down stark findings from a new survey revealing that nearly 7 out of 10 young people in Ireland see their future abroad. Grace discusses the driving factors—including housing shortages, cost of living, and stagnant wages—demanding urgent policy action to keep young talent at home.

Perspective on the Emigrant Experience: Listener John calls in to offer a grounded counterpoint regarding youth emigration. With adult children living overseas, John reflects on the reality that host nations like Australia and Canada face identical housing and cost-of-living crises, warning that emigrating isn’t always the effortless fix many hope for.

US Media Snub & Press Briefing Bans: Political commentator Larry Donnelly analyzes escalating friction between US media outlets and former President Donald Trump. Larry discusses the boycott by major networks following access restrictions at press briefings, examining what it signals for political journalism and media coverage heading into the upcoming election cycle.

Community Garda Information: Garda Sarah McDermott delivers this week’s frontline brief, bringing listeners the latest public safety appeals, road traffic warnings, and crime prevention updates from Donegal Gardaí.

Irish Music Month: Highland Radio’s Local Hero Winner Announced: Anne Marie McDevitt, Paul McDevitt, and Jimmy Stafford join Greg live in studio for the grand reveal of Highland Radio’s overall winner in the A New Local Hero competition. Following public voting and panel judging across four exceptional local acts, Ballyshannon singer-songwriter Rían McCauley is officially crowned Highland Radio’s finalist. The panel discusses Rían’s winning entry and what lies ahead as he advances to the national stage.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 22/09/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on the DL Debate, Brendan Devenney recaps the Donegal Hurling Championship Finals with Conor Gartland and Colm Breathnach, Maureen O’Donnell casts her thoughts over the Donegal LGFA Semi Finals and Brendan Kilcoyne previews the last eight battles in the Donegal Senior Football Championship.

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

The post The DL Debate – 21/09/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we cover political solutions to surging fuel and energy costs, public health debates on ultra-processed foods and energy drinks, local GAA updates, and candid conversations on women’s health and dental care.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily review of the regional and national headlines breaking across the morning newspapers.

Rising Fuel Costs & Financial Support: Deputy Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Finance, joins Greg to address the soaring costs of motor fuel and home heating oil. Deputy Doherty outlines his party’s proposed policy measures to cushion households from energy price spikes and calls for direct government intervention ahead of the upcoming budget.

The Ultra-Processed Food & ‘Biscuit Tax’ Debate: Public health researcher Dr Frank Houghton discusses calls to introduce or increase taxes on sugary snacks and ultra-processed foods. Dr Houghton highlights stark nutritional disparities, pointing out that consumers can currently buy up to 40,000 calories of junk food for the equivalent of just one hour’s minimum wage.

Senior Championship Knockout Action & The DL Debate: Brendan Devenney catches us up on the weekend’s local GAA action across Donegal as club championship clashes intensify, previewing the key tactical discussions lined up for tonight’s edition of The DL Debate.

Energy Drink Restrictions & Youth Health: We examine growing public support for introducing a legal minimum age on the sale of energy drinks:

Health Risks: Dr Joanne Uí Chrualaoich details the adverse health impacts high-caffeine energy drinks have on children and teenagers, including sleep disruption, anxiety, and heart palpitations.

Workplace Action: Listener Angela calls in to explain why and how she successfully blocked energy drink sales from vending machines in her workplace.

Dental Impact on Teenagers: Local dentist Dr Gerard Roarty adds shocking clinical context to the energy drink debate, sharing firsthand accounts of teenagers requiring partial and full dentures due to severe enamel erosion and tooth decay caused by acidic, high-sugar drinks.

Perimenopause Unfiltered: Buncrana author Marie McLaughlin joins Greg to discuss her new book, The Rage, the Sweat and the Patches, which officially goes on sale this Friday. Marie shares her honest, witty, and relatable perspective on navigating perimenopause, breaking down taboos, and helping women recognise they are not alone.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 21/09/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we kick off the weekend with The Friday Panel tackling international tour controversies, police whistleblower revelations, and politician safety, alongside mental health advocacy, culture previews, and a special double podcast release.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Councillor Jack Murray, former Garda Sergeant Christie Galligan, and journalist Naomi Hamilton O’Donnell join Greg in-studio for a wide-ranging debate:

Ed Sheeran Concert Fallout: The panel examines the escalating controversy surrounding Ed Sheeran’s tour following support acts pulling out over political stances, discussing artist platform responsibility and venue dynamics.

Garda Whistleblower Revelations: The panel analyzes new whistleblower disclosures emerging within An Garda Síochána, addressing internal accountability, procedural oversight, and institutional culture.

Politician Safety & Public Security: Following the violent assault that hospitalised Deputy Michael Healy-Rae in Dublin, the panel discusses the growing safety risks facing public representatives and how to protect democratic engagement without isolating politicians from the public.

Double Release: The Greg Hughes Podcast: We preview a special double-episode release of The Greg Hughes Podcast, featuring exclusive chats with two distinguished recipients of the 2026 Tip O’Neill Diaspora Award:

Brendan ‘Tiny’ Vaughan: Community stalwart Brendan ‘Tiny’ Vaughan reflects on his lifelong dedication to diaspora causes, charity work, and keeping global connection links to Donegal alive.

Kate Barton: Business leader and Dentons Global CEO Kate Barton shares insights from her career leading major global organizations, discussing leadership values, corporate strategy, and her Irish heritage.

‘One Good Adult’ Youth Mental Health Campaign: Donna McGee from the HSE and Cora Harvey representing the GAA drop into the studio to launch the ‘One Good Adult’ initiative. They outline upcoming events scheduled for September 21st, emphasizing how trusted adults—teachers, coaches, and family members—can provide crucial mental health support to young people.

Culture Night 2026 Bumper Preview: Traolach Ó Fionnáin joins Greg to preview the packed schedule of free arts, heritage, and musical events taking place across Donegal for Culture Night this evening, encouraging families and communities to get involved in local venues.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 18/09/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

From a family rooted in Ireland to the leadership of the world’s largest global law firm, Kate Barton’s story reaches across generations and continents.

This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg welcomes Kate Barton, Global CEO of Dentons and a recipient of the 2026 Tip O’Neill Irish Diaspora Award.

The granddaughter of four Irish grandparents who emigrated to Boston, Kate has built an international career while retaining a strong connection to her Irish heritage. She credits her grandparents’ resilience, storytelling and humour with helping shape her approach to leadership and giving back.

Before taking the helm at Dentons, Kate spent more than three decades at EY, rising to senior global leadership roles. Alongside her professional achievements, she supports charitable and educational organisations, including The Ireland Funds and the Shanti Bhavan Children’s Project.

As she prepares to receive her award in Donegal, join Greg and Kate for this standalone episode featuring a member of the Irish diaspora whose family roots remain an important part of her story.

New episodes of The Greg Hughes Podcast arrive every Friday at 11am. Listen at highlandradio.com, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also watch on YouTube.

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The post The Greg Hughes Podcast Ep40 : 2026 Tip O’Neill Award Recipient Kate Barton appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.