The Greg Hughes Show

From the halls of Leinster House to the beaches of Inishowen, we cover the stories that matter to Donegal today.

Inside Today’s Episode:

Advocacy in the Dáil: We kick off the show by crossing to the Dáil, where Deputies Pat the Cope Gallagher and Pearse Doherty have raised the urgent plight of two Donegal families. They are seeking immediate approval for Givinostat, a life-changing drug for young boys battling Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. This follows our in-depth coverage last week on the heartbreaking delays in the HSE approval process.

The Morning Press: We take a look through today’s papers, dissecting the front-page headlines and the stories sparking conversation across the country.

The Donegal Daddy vs. The Kingdom: Michael ‘Donegal Daddy’ Brennan joins Greg to discuss his recent viral remarks regarding “extortionate” hotel prices in Kerry ahead of the massive Donegal vs. Kerry clash. He shares the backlash he’s received from “The Kingdom” and why he’s standing his ground on the cost of supporting the county.

Communion or Competition?: We open the phone lines for a lively debate. One listener claims that First Holy Communions are becoming less about the religious milestone and more of a “competition between mammys” regarding outfits and appearances. Is the day losing its meaning to social media pressure?

Lady’s Bay Clearance: There is great news for Buncrana as we get local reaction to the EPA officially clearing Lady’s Bay for swimming this summer. We look at the successful management plans that have finally restored the water quality for the local community.

Hello, How Are You?: Marie Duffy from Mental Health Ireland joins us to encourage everyone to mark their calendars for May 15th. She explains the “Hello, How Are You?” initiative and how one small question can open the door to vital mental health support.

The Garden Clinic: To wrap up the show, Paul McLaughlin is in studio to answer your gardening questions. Whether it’s planting for the summer or dealing with those stubborn garden pests, Paul has the expert advice you need.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 13/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

It’s a morning of frontline action and community debate as we cover the ambulance strike live, alongside major developments in Donegal Town and political shifts across the water.

On Today’s Podcast:

The Morning Press: We start with our daily digest of the national and local papers, setting the agenda for the day ahead.

Live from the Picket Line: We cross to Donna Marie Doherty who is live at the picket line as ambulance drivers across the county begin their first 24-hour strike in a dispute over pay and grading. We hear from the workers on the ground about their frustrations and what this means for emergency services in the North West today.

10,000 Expected for Marian Procession: We have details on a massive spiritual event coming to the region this June. Derry will participate in a worldwide Marian Procession, with organizers expecting upwards of 10,000 people to descend on the city and surrounding areas.

Donegal Town Development: Cllr Jimmy Brogan joins Greg to discuss the plans recently lodged for a significant extension to a pub in Donegal Town. Cllr Brogan is calling for a full public consultation, arguing that local residents deserve a stronger voice in how the town’s landscape is shaped.

Inishowen Traffic Woes: Former Cllr Peter McLaughlin highlights the ongoing disruption caused by roadworks in Inishowen. He’s calling for smarter traffic management plans to prevent the peninsula from grinding to a halt during essential maintenance.

Community Garda Information: Garda Sarah McDermott is in studio for our weekly catch-up with the latest appeals and information from Donegal Gardai.

 From Donegal to Islington: We chat with Donegal-born Cllr Troy Gallagher following his recent election success in Islington. He shares his perspective on the results and his thoughts on the future leadership and direction of the Labour Party in the UK.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 12/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

We kick off the week with a major milestone for Donegal’s infrastructure, an international spotlight on local talent, and a sobering look at industrial action affecting the county tomorrow.

On Today’s Podcast:

The Morning Press: We open the show by scanning the front pages, looking at the national stories and local headlines shaping the conversation this Monday.

Ten-T Project Milestone: A massive step forward for Donegal’s roads as the planning application for the Ten-T Priority Route Improvement Project is officially lodged. Damien McDermott (Senior Engineer, Donegal Roads Office) and Cllr Paul Canning (Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council) join us to discuss what this means for the relief of traffic in Letterkenny, Ballybofey, and Stranorlar.

Schoolovision 2026: We go live to Scoil Naomh Dúigh, Anagaire! We chat with teachers and students as they prepare to represent Ireland in this year’s “Schoolovision” song contest. Hear the excitement from the classroom as they take their music to a global stage.

Ambulance Strike Warning: Brendan McGovern from the National Ambulance Service joins Greg to discuss the “work-to-rule” action starting today and the planned 24-hour strike for tomorrow. We explore the significant impact this will have on emergency response times across Donegal and the advice for the public.

GAA Review & DL Debate: Brendan Devenney joins us to dissect the weekend’s Gaelic Games action and gives us a teaser for tonight’s DL Debate podcast, which will dive deep into the tactical battles and standout performances.

High Energy Costs: Why is Ireland still paying some of the highest electricity prices in Europe? Justin Moran from Wind Energy Ireland joins the show to discuss the role of fossil fuel imports and what needs to change in our national grid to bring bills down.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 11/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

It’s the Friday Panel day! We wrap up the week with a debate on government spending, a look at seismic political shifts across the water, and powerful stories from our local community.

On Today’s Podcast:

The Friday Panel: Greg is joined by Cllr Declan Meehan, Cllr Martin McDermott, and Cllr Martin Harley. The team dives into the latest controversy surrounding public funds as reports emerge of a €127,000 bike shed at University Hospital Kerry. Is this a “slap in the face” to families at breaking point, or a necessary investment in active travel? The panel debates accountability, recruitment embargos, and the government’s track record on spending overruns.

The Fight for Aaron Langan: We return to the urgent case of 9-year-old Aaron Langan. With his condition deteriorating, we discuss the claims that the HSE is moving too slowly on drug approvals—specifically for Givinostat—despite EU authorization. We hear how this delay is impacting a local family’s battle for a life-changing treatment.

 UK Election Shockwaves: We reflect on the results of the British local elections. It’s been a bruising night for Labour with significant losses in traditional heartlands, while Reform UK sees a dramatic breakthrough and the Greens continue to make steady gains. What does this “fracturing” of British politics mean for the future?

Bundoran to Australia: We preview this week’s The Greg Hughes Podcast featuring an incredible guest, Paddy Kerrigan. We hear a clip of Paddy’s journey from Bundoran in the 1950s to working on the historic Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme and eventually receiving the Order of Australia.

 Palestine Solidarity: We have details on the Inishowen Apartheid Free Zone Campaign launch taking place this Saturday at the Buncrana Cinema. Featuring guest speakers and performances by The Henry Girls, it’s a significant event for the local solidarity movement.

Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkin joins Greg in studio to look at what’s trending, what’s viral, and what you might have missed in the digital world this week.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 08/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

At 95 years old, Paddy Kerrigan’s journey from south Donegal to the Snowy Mountains of Australia is nothing short of legendary. This week, we sit down with the Bundoran native to discuss his recent investiture at Government House, where he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) by Governor-General Sam Mostyn.

Paddy shares stories from a life built on service and hard work—from training as a carpenter in Ireland to emigrating in 1953 to work on the historic Snowy Mountains Hydro-Electric Scheme. We dive into his decades of dedication to the Snowy Monaro region, which earned him the title of 2025 Cooma Citizen of the Year, and explore the many roles he has played: community leader, tourism pioneer, and local hero.

In this episode, we discuss:

Paddy’s early life in Bundoran and his work across Ireland, England, and Scotland.

The transition to life in Australia and the grit required for the Snowy Hydro Scheme.

A lifetime of community service, from water rescues to preserving local heritage.

The experience of being recognized at the highest level in Canberra.

Follow & Subscribe: Don’t miss an episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast. Subscribe on your favorite platform to hear more incredible stories from Donegal and beyond.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep18: From Bundoran to the Order of Australia: The Incredible Life of Paddy Kerrigan appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

From the battle for children’s online safety to the roar of the rally engines, we’ve got a packed show for you today.

On Today’s Podcast:

The Morning Press: We start by leafing through the morning papers to see what’s grabbing the headlines across the country and closer to home.

Accountability for Meta: Noeline Blackwell, Online Safety Coordinator with the Children’s Rights Alliance, joins us following recent findings from the European Commission. She discusses the call for Meta to take greater responsibility for age assurance on platforms like Instagram and Facebook and the urgent need for a safer digital space for our youth.

The Donegal-Dublin PSO: A listener joins the conversation to raise questions about the Public Service Obligation (PSO) flights. Are the current operators truly charging in the “spirit” of a subsidized service meant for the community?

The Paywall Debate: With Donegal set to face Kerry in the All-Ireland, Sports Editor Oisin Kelly weighs in on the likelihood of this massive clash being tucked behind a GAAGO paywall—and what that means for fans.

Taobh Thiar den Roth: The engines are revving for the Donegal International Rally. Series producer and director Sonia Nic Giolla Easbuig of LIGID Léiriúcháin Teo joins Greg to discuss their gripping new four-part documentary premiering tonight.

Fight for Aaron: We hear the heartbreaking story of Donegal boy Aaron Langon. While the HSE has approved a life-altering new drug, Aaron’s parents discuss the agonizing wait as his condition continues to deteriorate.

Pedal Power in Raphoe: Teacher Daithi McColgon and students Abi Craig and Cody McClintock from Royal and Prior Raphoe are in studio. They discuss their “Green Schools” cycling initiative and the importance of active travel for students.

Business Matters: Chris Ashmore joins us with the latest local business news and a preview of this week’s Business Matters podcast, featuring major recruitment news from Vertiv.

The post The Greg Hughes Show |Thursday| 07/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Another packed show today as we dive into the heart of the issues affecting Donegal, from hospital parking costs to the return of one of our biggest summer festivals.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick things off with our signature look at the front pages and the stories making headlines across the country this morning.

Hospital Parking Hikes: Social Democrat Deputy Aidan Farrelly joins us with alarming new figures showing a massive spike in hospital parking charges. With Letterkenny University Hospital seeing significant increases, he’s calling on the Government to step in and review the burden on patients and families.

School Transport Deadline: Minister Michael Moynihan is in to discuss the looming deadline to register and pay for the School Transport Scheme. He breaks down the costs and what parents need to do before the portal closes this week.

Ashlawn Traffic Troubles: Adam Moor from the Ashlawn Residents Association shares the frustration of residents facing high traffic volumes as motorists use the estate to bypass jams. They are calling for urgent short and long-term safety measures from the Council.

Clonmany Festival 2026: We are joined in studio by Shane McLoughlin (Chair) and Aaron Harkin (PRO) of the Clonmany Festival Committee. After some controversy earlier this year, the team reveals the massive lineup for August and discusses their plans for a successful return.

Sound! The Soundtrack Festival: Laura Mannion is here to give us a sneak peek at the “Sound!” festival running in Letterkenny. Discover what film and music lovers can look forward to at this unique local event.

Future of Cloughaneely Golf Club: Captain Joe Mangan discusses the exciting future plans for the club, following their recent clubhouse development, and how the community can get involved and support their growth.

The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 06/05/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Another packed show today as we dive into the heart of the issues affecting our community, from road safety to the long-running battle for housing justice.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick things off with our signature look at the front pages and the stories making waves across the country.

Safety in Fintown: Locals are sounding the alarm. We hear from residents frustrated by speeding and “heart-in-mouth” dangerous overtaking. They aren’t just asking for change; they’re demanding action before someone gets hurt.

The Concrete Block Crisis: Danny Rafferty joins us to discuss Tuesday’s meeting for affected homeowners in Strabane and Derry. He highlights the widening gap in redress and the feeling of being “left behind” by systems on both sides of the border.

The Beach Bugbear: Listener Siobhan shares her frustration over the state of our local shorelines. Why are dog poo bags being left behind? A simple plea for people to take their rubbish home and respect our natural beauty.

Community Garda Information: Garda Grainne is in the studio with the latest appeals, safety advice, and essential local updates for your week ahead.

A Bus for St. Joseph’s: Bernie Thompson, Secretary of Save St Joseph’s Community Hospital, discusses the massive community drive to fund a new bus for residents. It’s all about mobility, dignity, and community spirit.

Ó Dochartaigh Clann Gathering: Looking ahead to the summer! Eva Doherty joins us to preview the 2026 gathering in Culdaff (August 12–15). Whether you’re a local or a visiting Clann member, this is one for the diary.

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

Today’s show brings together a powerhouse panel to dissect the week’s biggest headlines, from the heated political landscape of Donegal to a life-saving medical discovery and the latest from the world of law and social media.

The Friday Panel

Greg is joined in studio by our expert panel to debate the issues defining the week:

Cllr Tomás Sean Devine

Professor Pat O’Connor

Mary Harte (Journalist & Author)

On the Agenda:

The DCB Conflict: We dive into the fallout of this week’s controversy between Cllr Liam Blaney and the 100% Redress Party, exploring the friction between the government’s scheme and grassroots advocacy.

Ukraine Support Changes: The panel discusses the government’s latest proposals to scale back supports for Ukrainians in Ireland and what this means for integration and local communities.

Buncrana Hospital “Bed Counting” Row: We address the backlash following the HSE’s admission of a “human error” that led to the double-counting of beds at the Buncrana Community Hospital.

The Greg Hughes Podcast: A Life-Altering Diagnosis

We share an exclusive preview of this week’s featured podcast episode. Rosemary McFadden and Sharon Flannagan join us for a harrowing and ultimately hopeful conversation about Addison’s Disease. Rosemary discusses her terrifying experience of being misdiagnosed with a mental health condition while her physical organs were actually failing—and the chance encounter in Letterkenny that changed everything.

Expert Advice & Trending News

Legal Q&A with Seamus Gunn: Our resident legal expert returns to answer your listener queries on property, employment, and civil law.

The Scroll Patrol: Shannen joins the studio to wrap up the week with the biggest celebrity stories, viral trends, and the online conversations you might have missed.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Friday 01/05/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Imagine being told your physical organs shutting down is “all in your head.”

This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, we sit down with Rosemary McFadden and Sharon Flannagan to discuss a rare, life-altering autoimmune condition that almost cost Rosemary her life: Addison’s Disease.

What started as a harrowing journey of medical misdiagnosis ended in a miraculous chance meeting between two women in Letterkenny who became each other’s greatest support.

A Diagnosis by Luck

Foureen years ago, Rosemary McFadden was fading away. Suffering from extreme fatigue and weight loss, she was told she had anxiety and depression. She was even sent to a psychiatric unit—despite knowing deep down that her struggle wasn’t mental, but physical.

The turning point came when her brother-in-law, a doctor, noticed a specific, rare physical symptom: hyperpigmentation. By looking at the “tanned” skin on Rosemary’s elbows, knees, and stomach, he recognized the signs of adrenal failure.

“Nobody takes you on board because it’s so unknown. I was being sent to a psychiatric unit when I actually needed hormones to keep my organs from failing.” — Rosemary McFadden

A Chance Encounter

Living with Addison’s can be isolating, especially in the Northwest where support groups are non-existent. However, during the lockdown, Rosemary applied for a job where she met her manager, Sharon Flannagan.

In a staggering twist of fate, Sharon revealed she also lived with Addison’s. This episode explores their unique bond and how they navigate a condition so severe that it requires lifelong steroid replacement therapy just to stay alive.

The Misdiagnosis Trap: Why Addison’s is frequently mistaken for mental health issues.

The JFK Secret: How President John F. Kennedy hid the same condition from the world.

The Daily Fight: Managing low blood pressure, kidney function, and the constant threat of adrenal crisis.

Working with Addison’s: How Rosemary manages a full-time career despite the debilitating nature of the disease.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep17: The Invisible Battle with Addison’s Disease appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.