The Greg Hughes Show

Today we feature an in-depth, balanced discussion on the complexities of immigration, preview massive GAA action, look ahead to summer youth programs, and launch a lively fundraiser for the Donegal Hospice.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the broadcast by combing through the front pages of the morning papers, analyzing the top regional and national stories leading the news cycle.

The Immigration Debate: Siobhan Cullen, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Consultant, joins Greg for an in-depth and balanced conversation regarding changing public attitudes toward migration. While discussing the importance of tackling prejudice and fostering community integration, the segment also addresses the genuine, practical concerns being raised by local communities—including the immense pressure on local GP practices, school places, housing infrastructure, and the overall capacity of rural towns to absorb rapid population growth.

Countdown to Cork: Our GAA analyst Brendan Devenney drops by the studio to preview a massive tactical weekend for the county. He looks ahead to the highly anticipated Donegal v Cork clash and gives us a preview of the heated debates lined up for tonight’s DL Debate podcast.

Summer with Donegal Youth Service: Laura Byrne, Elevate 55 Project Worker with the Donegal Youth Service, outlines the exciting, jam-packed calendar of events and safe-space programs hitting the county for young people over the summer months.

The Campaign to Ban Sulky Racing: Conor Dowling from the ISPCA joins the show to discuss the organization’s escalating campaign to protect animal welfare. He encourages listeners to back and sign their national petition aimed at implementing a total ban on sulky racing on public roads.

Jive for June is Back!: We close out the morning with a celebration of local care. Isobel Rodgers from the Donegal Hospice and Jamie Sweeney from FinTru are live in studio. They discuss the vital, free palliative care services the hospice provides to the county, celebrate the massive success of the “Jive for June” campaign in 2025, and issue an enthusiastic call for people to get their dancing shoes on and register for this year’s events.

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

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We wrap up the week with an intense Friday Panel dealing with demographic and social changes, legal fights over Irish turf, and an inspiring story of turning life around from rock bottom.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Greg is joined in studio by Mary T. Sweeney (Aontú), former Garda Sergeant Christy Galligan, and “the wee Donegal mammy” Emma Govha for an unfiltered look at the country’s shifting landscape:

Ireland’s Declining Birthrate: Following recent data indicating a sharp drop in the national birthrate, the panel looks at the driving forces behind the trend—from the surging cost of living and housing gridlock to changing societal norms. The debate turns intensely ideological as the panel examines if there is a direct correlation with the rate of abortion, and questions what a shrinking native population means for the economic and cultural future of the country.

Scrapping the Triple Lock: The panel shifts focus to national security and defense, debating the Government’s controversial intention to dismantle the “Triple Lock” mechanism. Is it a necessary step to modernize our defense forces in a volatile global climate, or a dangerous threat to Ireland’s traditional military neutrality?

The Greg Hughes Podcast with Francie McGinley: We preview Episode 22 of the long-form podcast, dropping today. Greg plays an exclusive clip from guest Francie McGinley (owner of Intensity Fitness & ECA Donegal). He shares a powerful, raw snippet of his journey, “Two Paths, One Choice: The Route to Success,” detailing how he dragged himself out of rock bottom to build a thriving business.

The Legal Eagle on Peat Extraction: Legal expert Seamus Gunn joins the show to break down the massive news that the European Union is taking Ireland to court over its failure to protect peat bogs and regulate turf cutting. Seamus explains the complex environmental laws behind the case and takes listener questions on right-of-ways, boundary disputes, and property law.

Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkin drops into the studio for her regular Friday look at the digital world, checking out the viral trends, local talking points, and memes making a splash on social media across Donegal this week.

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What does it take to completely turn your life around when you’re facing rock bottom?

This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg sits down with Donegal entrepreneur Francie, who at just 31 years old has built two thriving fitness businesses in the county: Intensity Fitness and ECA Donegal.

But his path to success was far from traditional. After being sentenced to two years in prison—a term ultimately replaced by a 240-hour community service order—Francie used that pivotal moment to completely reinvent his future. Moving from a humble setup in his mum’s garage to qualifying 80 new coaches and building a massive, supportive fitness community, his story is a masterclass in resilience, grit, and redemption.

In this episode, we dive deep into the reality of modern mental health, why comfort is the enemy of growth, and how a post-COVID shift toward isolation is impacting our well-being. If you need a reminder that your future self will thank you for doing the uncomfortable things today, this conversation is for you.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 22: Francie McGinley – Two Paths, One Choice: The Route to Success appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we tackle the widespread frustration over the GAA’s decision to leave Donegal fans in the dark this weekend, look closely at what the new IS465 technical guidelines mean for homeowners, and fix our recycling habits.

Inside Today’s Episode:

Left in the Dark (Opening Op-Ed): Greg kicks off the show with a passionate opening commentary condemning the decision to leave Donegal’s upcoming clash against Cork completely off our television screens. Why are loyal fans being forced to miss out on the championship action?

The Morning Press: We review the front pages of the local and national newspapers, tracking the top stories leading the day’s news agenda.

Reflecting on the New IS465 Guidance: Following the highly anticipated release of the updated IS465 technical guidelines for the Defective Concrete Block crisis, Deputy Charles Ward (100% Redress) and Cllr Martin McDermott join Greg to share their analyzed reflections. They break down what these technical tweaks actually mean for affected families on the ground and whether the updates go far enough to deliver true remediation.

The GAA Blackout Debate: The broadcasting frustration deepens. Highland Radio Sports Editor Oisín Kelly and Cllr Jack Murray join Greg to discuss the baffling news that three massive matches in the next round of the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship will receive absolutely no television or streaming coverage. We look at the growing disconnect between GAA headquarters and rural supporters who cannot travel across the country every weekend.

Are You Using Your Brown Bin Right?: We chat with a representative from MyWaste.ie for a much-needed reality check on our household waste. It turns out a huge percentage of households are still using their brown compost bins incorrectly—we find out what common items are secretly ruining the composting process.

Business Matters: Chris Ashmore drops into the studio with his weekly roundup of the Northwest business headlines and gives us a sneak peek at what’s coming up on this week’s Business Matters podcast.

Stream today’s full episode here:

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Today we bring you a highly anticipated road safety victory in St. Johnston, a devastating eviction loophole in Strabane, an emotional appeal from the Donegal Piper, and the great end-of-school-year teacher gift debate.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the morning with our daily review of the leading local and national headlines shaping the conversation today.

Good News for the Back Lone Road: Campaign leader Alice Lynch returns to the studio with a brilliant update for the St. Johnston community. Following a tireless campaign regarding a dangerously narrow stretch of the Back Lone Road, she confirms that local residents are teaming up with Donegal County Council to expedite the installation of much-needed vehicle lay-bys.

The Succession Rights Loophole: Strabane Cllr Jason Barr highlights a devastating housing issue after three local families were hit with eviction notices from council homes. He explains the cruel lack of “succession rights” that forces families out of their homes when their parents pass away and calls for urgent policy reform.

Carlisle Road Studio Appeal: Derry business owner Lisa Lynch issues a public appeal for information following a targeted break-in at her photography studio on the Carlisle Road. She discusses the immense impact of having thousands of euros worth of professional, expensive camera equipment stolen.

An Appeal from the Donegal Piper: In a deeply emotional interview, well-known traditional musician Christy Murray joins Greg to speak about his 36-year-old nephew, Ronan Strain, who has been missing from Dublin for 20 days. Believed to have entered the water at Howth Head, Christy appeals to the public and coastal communities to spread the word to help bring Ronan home and give the family closure.

The Teacher Gift Debate: As the school year winds down, teacher Tina McLoughlin joins the show to unpack the perennial debate: Should parents buy end-of-year gifts for teachers and SNAs? We take listener feedback on the escalating pressure, costs, and whether a simple “thank you” card is enough.

30 Years of the Donegal Traveller Project: Siobhan McLaughlin (Manager of the DTP) and Hugh Friel (Roma Health Co-ordinator) look ahead to a major milestone conference in Letterkenny tomorrow. They reflect on three decades of advocacy, cultural preservation, and the ongoing fight for healthcare and social equality.

The Power of Breathwork: To close the morning, Niall McHugo of The Breathwork Project drops into the studio. He explains the science behind conscious breathing techniques and how simple daily practices can lower cortisol levels, manage anxiety, and improve overall focus.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 03/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Today we address the introduction of dynamic electricity pricing, a massive proposed powerdown protest, Donegal’s lucky championship draw, and local outrage over environmental damage on our beaches.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: Donna-Marie Doherty kicks off the show with a thorough review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national stories breaking this morning.

The Cost of Living & Dynamic Pricing: Professor Lisa Ryan joins the show to break down the newly introduced “dynamic pricing” models mandated for Irish electricity customers. With an 8% price hike scheduled to hit consumers next month, she explains what real-time pricing means for your monthly bills. Meanwhile, caller John phones in calling on the people of Donegal and Ireland to join a coordinated protest by implementing a total “powerdown” on July 1st from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM to send a clear message to energy providers.

Donegal GAA’s Lucky Draw: Head of Sport at Highland Radio, Oisín Kelly, stops by the studio to analyze the freshly completed Gaelic football championship draws. He outlines a massive stroke of luck for the home side, as Cork will now have to make the long journey up to Ballybofey to face Donegal.

Beach Blight at Braade: Cllr Micheal Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig hits out at a group of irresponsible campers. The councillor expresses absolute disgust after Braade Beach was left littered with bottles, rubbish, and even an abandoned tent, slamming their decision to light an open fire as incredibly reckless.

Community Garda Information: Garda Gerard McNamee delivers the weekly community information slot, issuing the latest security notices, local crime updates, and safety advice affecting the Donegal division.

Defective Concrete Blocks Update: Professor Paul Dunlop joins Donna-Marie to dissect the latest breaking developments surrounding the IS465 standard for defective concrete blocks, providing expert analysis on what these changes mean for affected homeowners fighting for redress.

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

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 02/06/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Donna-Marie Doherty presents today with a morning heavily focused on international sporting boycotts, local school safety, and a massive weekend ahead for transport enthusiasts in Letterkenny.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Donna-Marie is joined by 100% Redress Cllr Denis McGee, Sinn Féin Representative Niamh McGuinness, and Managing Director of Football Special Seamus Mc Daid to unpack a heavy week of news, discussing Israel, driving, and local protests:

Sporting Boycotts: The panel debates the political and sporting fallout of an apparent ministerial boycott of the upcoming Ireland vs. Israel match.

School Protests vs. Harassment: Following deeply concerning incidents at schools in Milford, the team asks the tough question: where do we draw the line between a peaceful protest and targeted harassment?

Road Safety Frustrations:  Could high-vis vests become as mandatory as seatbelts? We discuss a new motion from Clare County Council that aims to make high-visibility clothing a legal requirement for pedestrians and cyclists to cut down on road casualties.

Distracted Driving Epidemic: The road safety conversation continues with driving instructor David Scanlon, who highlights the growing danger of phone use by pedestrians. Meanwhile, local caller Sean brings a stark reality check to the airwaves, recounting how he witnessed two HGV drivers and a bus driver all operating their mobile phones while driving past his own garden.

20th Northwest Truck Fest: Great news for local tourism and transport enthusiasts! Richard Browne joins the show to give us an exclusive preview of the 20th annual Northwest Truck Fest, which kicks off in Letterkenny this weekend. Expect a massive turnout and a fantastic economic boost for the area.

The Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkins wraps up the week by taking us on a dive through everything social media—bringing you the funniest, weirdest, and most viral stories dominating online feeds over the last seven days.

The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We get an exclusive sneak peek at this week’s full-length podcast drop, featuring a remarkably candid, deep-dive interview with Donegal’s own Mickey Joe Harte.

Stream the full Friday broadcast and listen back here:

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 29/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Over twenty years since he captured the nation’s attention on You’re a Star and represented Ireland at the 2003 Eurovision Song Contest with the number-one hit “We’ve Got the World,” Mickey Joe reflects openly on the reality of sudden fame, the mechanics of the music industry, and his life off-stage.

In this candid conversation, Mickey Joe dives deep into the turning points of his career. He opens up about the industry decisions that shaped his path, including his regret over walking away from a major recording contract with Sony Music, and shares his experiences navigating prime-time television, from early reality TV to his recent stint on Dancing with the Stars.

We also explore his life at home, his immense pride in his son Percy, and his extraordinary studio collaborations—including the story behind a fascinating, as-yet-unreleased recording with the late Shane MacGowan. Looking ahead, we discuss his enduring passion for his craft and his future ambitions in an ever-changing music industry.

Key Topics Discussed in This Episode:

The Eurovision Whirlwind: Looking back at 2003, “We’ve Got the World,” and handling the sudden weight of national expectation.

The Sony Crossroads: A raw reflection on the business side of music and the decision to exit a major label recording contract.

Television & The Spotlight: Navigating the pressures of reality television and stepping back onto the floor for Dancing with the Stars.

Family & Advocacy: Life off-stage and his pride in his son Percy’s journey.

Studio Legends: The stories behind his musical collaborations, featuring an exclusive look at an unreleased track recorded with the legendary Shane MacGowan.

The Next Chapter: Staying relevant in the modern music industry and future artistic ambitions.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 21: Mickey Joe Harte 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:

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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:

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