Playback Archives - Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport

On Business Matters this week Chris Ashmore looks at a sustainable fashion accessories business, and also how City of Derry airport is seeing passenger numbers soaring.

First up, he talks with Buncrana woman Orla O’Hagan about her business Orla Vera Accessories, a boutique brand specialising in hand-crafted products, notably handbags, made from real leather and sustainable materials. Among the companies she has sourced waste leather from are BMW and Rolls Royce.

After completing a degree in Footwear and Accessories at University in Leicester, she worked in London before Covid struck, and she got laid off and came home. But it was back in Buncrana that her new business was born – and it is now going from strength to strength.

In the second part of the programme, Chris speaks with Steve Frazer, Managing Director of City of Derry Airport, about the recent surge in passenger numbers, the impending start of a new Derry to Dublin service, and hopes for more routes in the years ahead.

You can listen to the full programme here:

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Today we address the costly plans to immortalize a beloved local shipwreck, cross-border passport regulations, domestic safety risks, and local community environmental concerns.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our daily look at the front pages, reviewing the leading headlines breaking across national and local papers today.

Immortalising Bád Eddie: Mary Coyle joins Greg with an update on proposals to preserve the memory of Bunbeg’s iconic shipwreck, Bád Eddie (Cara Na Mara). With the physical wreck deteriorating on Magheraclogher Beach, plans for a permanent replacement monument or protective installation are taking shape—though turning the local landmark into a lasting sculpture comes with a steep price tag.

Devastation in Nepal: Shanker, a Letterkenny resident originally from Nepal, reacts to the catastrophic flash flooding that recently hit his home country, sharing personal updates on the disaster’s impact and the relief efforts underway.

Postcode Lottery in Cancer Care: Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson David Cullinane discusses new health figures highlighting stark regional disparities in cancer treatment access and waiting times across Ireland, emphasizing how patient outcomes remain heavily dependent on geographic location.

Passport Requirements for UK Travel: Travel expert Eoghan Corry outlines new regulatory measures requiring passengers traveling from the Republic of Ireland to Great Britain to carry a valid passport, breaking down what these changes mean for border control, transit policies, and local travelers.

Rising Calls to the Poisons Information Centre: Dr. Edel Duggan outlines recent data showing a surge in calls to the National Poisons Information Centre. She offers practical advice for parents and caregivers on childproofing homes against household chemicals, medications, and toxic substances.

Quad Bike Abuse in Lisnagra Woods: Listener concerns are raised regarding the illegal use and anti-social abuse of Lisnagra Woods in Muff by quad bike enthusiasts. Local Councillor Terry Crossan confirms he has contacted relevant state agencies and Coillte to demand an immediate crackdown to protect the forest trails for walkers.

Letterkenny’s Illicit Tobacco Trade: We look at alarming new figures showing that an estimated 60% of cigarettes smoked in Letterkenny originate from the black market, highlighting the economic losses and law enforcement challenges surrounding illicit tobacco trading in the North West.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore stops by to deliver today’s commercial roundup and preview the latest episode of the Business Matters podcast.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 27/08/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today, with Donal Kavanagh in the hot seat, we remember Dolly Parton, look at the need for a dedicated Department of the Marine, hear from a young Donegal musician bound for Electric Picnic, look at the right to be forgotten for cancer patients. hear of a new Coastal Location Service, explore the issue of commercial vacancies in the Twin Towns, and hear of a Irish language diploma being taught at the ATU campus in Letterkenny.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with a scan through the morning newspapers, tracking the top local, regional, and national headlines breaking across the papers today.

The death of Dolly Parton: Margo O’Donnell, the Girl from Donegal remembers her friend Dolly Parton who died last evening.

Fisheries sector under pressure: Donegal Deputy Padraig MacLochlainn, the Sinn Fein Marine Spokesperson calls for a dedicated Department of the Marine, claiming there is now clear evidence that the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Food is shafting the fishing sector in the interests of farming.

Electric Picnic bound: Ballyshannon singer songwriter Rian McCauley previews his EP appearance with Tinie Tempah this coming weekend, and treats us to a live performance of his song ‘Nickname’.

Right to be Forgotten: With new laws making it illegal for Mortgage Protection Insurance brokers to penalise cancer patients who have been in remission for five years, Suzanne Dowds of the Irish Cancer Society says they would like to see that extended further.

Coastal Location Indicators: Following a traumatic incident on Tramore Beach in August of last year, Cllr Brian Carr has led the campaign to have a location system developed to allow the Emergency Services get to beaches more quickly. Tomorrow, Cllr Carr launches the system developed by the council at Nairn Beach.

Vacancy rates in the Twin Towns: Martin McGowan, Chair of the Ballybofey Stranorlar Chamber of Commerce tells us of their response to a recent article based on the area’s high commercial vacancy rate.

B2 Irish Language Diploma at ATU: Tutor Caitlín Ní Bhroin and former student Liam Mac Giolla Bhríde discuss the Irish Language Diploma course offered at ATU’s Letterkenny Campus, and backed by University of Galway.

Hour 1 –

Hour 2 –

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 26/08/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we tackle alternative education rights for non-religious pupils, local parking charge debates, national food security, cross-border peace initiatives, and back-to-school mental health.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily look at the front pages, tracking the leading national and regional headlines breaking across the newspapers today.

Secular Rights in Catholic Schools: Jane Donnelly from Atheist Ireland joins Greg to argue that alternative, non-religious classes must be formally provided for atheist and non-religious children during faith formation hours in Catholic primary and secondary schools, ensuring no child is left sitting idly or feeling excluded.

Buncrana Parking Charge Debates: Councillor Fionnán Bradley discusses an upcoming public consultation regarding municipal parking, stating his belief that parking charges in Buncrana should be increased to manage traffic flow, boost turnover for local businesses, and fund local infrastructure.

Strengthening Ireland’s Food Security: Listener Connell calls into the show to voice growing concerns over Ireland’s agricultural independence. He argues that given accelerating climate change, global supply chain disruptions, and shifting weather patterns, the state must take drastic measures to become more self-sufficient in food production.

Community Garda Information: Garda Feena McManamon delivers this week’s frontline brief, bringing listeners the latest local police appeals, road safety warnings, and public safety updates across Donegal.

Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme Appeal: Listener Sinéad joins Greg to encourage eligible survivors and families to apply for the Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme. She highlights concerns over low uptake rates to date and urges those affected to engage with the redress scheme before deadlines approach.

International Conference on Enforced Disappearances: Professor Élise Féron Previews a major international conference taking place in Derry focusing on enforced disappearances, bring together global experts, human rights advocates, and victim families to address historical justice and legacy issues.

Back-to-School Anxiety & Mental Health: Psychotherapist and education expert Bronagh Starrs drops into the studio to offer practical advice for parents on how to help children navigate back-to-school worries, managing anxiety, and easing the transition back into the classroom.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 25/08/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on the DL Debate, Brendan Devenney will be joined by St Micheals’ Brian McLaughlin and Radio Na Gaeltachta’s Owenie Mac Garvey.Also joining the show are top referees Mark Dorrian and Enda McFeely

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

The post The DL Debate 24/08/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we examine the public fallout following the M9 tragedy in Kildare, dropping Catholic baptism rates across Ireland, reaction to Leaving Cert results, and local arts and sports updates.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Councillor Gerry McMonagle, broadcaster Mary Harte, and businesswoman Nicola Mahon join Greg in-studio for an extensive Friday discussion:

M9 Tragedy & Public Discourse: The panel reflects on the intense public commentary following last weekend’s crash in Kildare that tragically claimed the lives of five young boys, discussing community support, policing, and how such road disasters can be prevented.

Declining Catholic Baptisms: The panel reacts to new data showing a 30% drop in Catholic baptisms across Ireland, debating changing social trends, religious engagement, and secularization.

Leaving Cert Results Day: The panel offers advice and perspective to over 2,500 Donegal students receiving their Leaving Certificate results today as they prepare for the next step in their education or careers.

The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We play a preview clip from the latest episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast featuring local professional boxing star Jason Quigley, who opens up about his career, family, high-stakes fight politics, and future ambitions.

GAA & Allianz Boycott Campaign: Brendan Devenney outlines the latest updates on a growing campaign urging the GAA to cut sponsorship ties with Allianz over the insurance firm’s commercial connections to Israel.

Letterkenny Busking Festival Preview: Letterkenny Chamber member Jimmy Stafford and local musician Johnny Coonan drop by to preview Saturday’s Letterkenny Busking Festival, with Johnny performing a live acoustic set to kick off the weekend.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 21/08/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Donegal boxing star Jason Quigley joins the show for an honest, wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the ring.

We dive deep into the full arc of his career—from the immense hype of his high-profile professional debut to the intensity and pressure of the big fight build-ups. Jason opens up about his shot at a world title against Demetrius Andrade, detailing what really went down in the ring, including a broken jaw early in the fight and a controversial refereeing decision on a disputed knockdown call that completely shifted the contest.

Outside the ring, Jason reflects candidly on:Family & Fundamentals: The rewarding yet complex dynamic of his relationship with his father, who coached and guided him through the formative stages of his career.The Business of Boxing: The pivotal split triggered by a missed opportunity with manager Brian Peters, and the harsh realities of navigating high-stakes boxing politics.

The New Era: His work alongside trainer Andy Lee, coaching rising star Hamzah Sheeraz, and his ongoing ambition to bring world-class boxing events back to Donegal. Whether you are a die-hard fight fan or just love a compelling story of resilience, drive, and local pride, this episode is an unmissable listen.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast Ep35 From Donegal to the World: The Real Jason Quigley Story appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

This week on The Score…

Declan Boyle previews this weekend’s League Of Ireland fixtures for Finn Harps and Derry City, Peter Doherty looks ahead to Cockhill Celtic’s big FAI Junior Cup Quarter-Final clash at home to Coachford and Athletics Ireland National Development Manager Dermot McGranaghan is encouraging local clubs to harness the recent success of Mark English and the Irish team at the European championships…

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On Business Matters this week Chris Ashmore looks at a major awards ceremony in the food and drink sector, plus autumn courses to upskill, or reskill.

First up, he speaks with Fallon Moore, event co-ordinator for the Blas na hÉireann, Irish Food Awards.

It’s a great year for Donegal producers with a record 16 making it through to the final stage of Ireland’s most prestigious food awards. 

Those on the shortlist are: Aran Ard Teoranta; Atlantic Treasures; Coco Chocolatiers; Donegal Rapeseed Oil; Donegal Sea Salt; Filligans; Green Pastures Donegal; Kombucha Na Dalaigh; Little Mammas Gelato; Natural Dairies; New Kid Coffee; Nomadic Dairies; Promise Gluten Free; Tír Bakehouse; Ulster Mead Co, and Wild Fuschia Bakehouse.

The products are all blind tasted by the judging panel. Getting a Blas na hÉireann award can be a major boost for many businesses.

In the second part this week, Chris speaks with Dearbhla Kelly, Services to Business, Donegal College of Further Education,  about a range of courses this autumn being promoted through the Donegal Education and Training Board.

Every year thousands of people in Donegal do courses that help them to upskill, to reskill or enhance their knowledge, possibly leading to a new career.

September is a particularly important month with a whole range of new part-time and full-time courses available, both in person at a number of centres around the county, and online.

You can listen to the full programme here:

The post Business Matters – Ep 310: 16 Donegal finalists at Blas na Éireann awards, plus time to upskill this autumn appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address accessibility breakdowns in public infrastructure, environmental dumping on local beaches, falling baptism rates, emergency department experiences, and practical budgeting tips.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with a scan of the local and national newspapers, tracking the top headlines and stories making the news today.

Accessibility Breakdown at New Changing Places Facility: Following the recent opening of the new Changing Places public toilets in Letterkenny, listener Patsy joins us to share his family’s disappointment. Patsy explains how he took his son, who has complex needs, to use the facility only to find the essential hoist out of order. We follow up on the issue and secure a firm commitment that the contractor will visit the site immediately to resolve the issue.

Environmental Outrage on Stragill Beach: Listener Patricia contacts the show to report a shocking case of illegal dumping at Stragill Beach in Inishowen, where she discovered a large quantity of discarded disposable nappies, sparking calls for stricter enforcement and community vigilance along our coastline.

Declining Baptism Rates in Ireland: Dr. Tom Finnegan, Chair of the Iona Institute, joins Greg to discuss their recent survey revealing a significant decline in the number of children being baptized across Ireland, exploring the broader societal and cultural shifts behind the numbers.

Cost-Saving Tips for Everyday Shopping: Social media influencer Orla Cusack drops into the studio to share insights from her popular online series on smart shopping, offering listeners practical, actionable tips to cut down on weekly grocery bills amidst rising living costs.

Emergency Department Pressures & Primary Care: Listener Timothy shares his recent personal experience visiting the Emergency Department. While lamenting long waiting times, Timothy praises the dedication of frontline doctors and nurses, making a strong plea for patients to consult their GP or primary care services first where appropriate to help ease pressure on the hospital.

Climate Consciousness Course for Over 55s: We highlight details of an upcoming six-week climate awareness program launching in Lifford specifically tailored for the over-55 community, focusing on practical environmental steps and the personal benefits of sustainable living.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore stops by to deliver today’s local commercial update and preview the latest episode of the Business Matters podcast.

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

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