The Greg Hughes Show

It’s the Friday Panel! This week, Greg is joined by Cian O’Hagan (Chair of Ógra Sinn Féin in Donegal), Nicola Mahon (Owner of Mode Embroidery and Printing), and James Ward (News Editor with the Irish Daily Mail) to dissect the week’s biggest headlines.

Inside This Episode:

The Future of Fianna Fáil: With rumors swirling around the leadership, the panel discusses Micheál Martin’s standing within the party. Is it time for a changing of the guard, or does he remain the steady hand the party needs?

The Flag Controversy: Senator Eileen Flynn sparked a heated debate this week with her comments on the Irish Flag. The panel weighs in on national identity and whether the Senator’s critique was a step too far or a necessary conversation.

High Street vs. Fast Fashion: As online giants continue to dominate, Nicola Mahon gives a first-hand perspective on whether fast fashion is truly the death knell for local Irish businesses.

Fuel Tax Overhaul: Listener Daniel joins the conversation, arguing that the current crisis demands a radical rethink of how we tax fuel at the pump.

Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkin stops by to dive into the digital zeitgeist. What’s trending, what’s viral, and what’s worth your double-tap this week?

Community Heroes: Highland’s own Sean Quinn is in the studio for a very special launch! We kick off this year’s Highland Radio Community Hero initiative, celebrating the local legends who make Donegal great.

Join the Conversation: What do you think about the future of the Irish Flag? Is the government doing enough to protect local businesses from online giants?

Listen back now!

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In the most northerly peninsula in Ireland, geography can often be a barrier to safety. For over 30 years, Mary Doherty has been breaking down those barriers.

Mary is one of the founding figures of Lifeline Inishowen, a service that began as a response to a desperate local need and has grown into a gold-standard support system for survivors of domestic abuse. In this episode, we sit down with Mary just weeks after she was named a 2026 AXA Community Hero for Women’s Safety and Wellbeing.

We discuss the early days of the organization, the unique challenges of providing crisis support in a rural coastal community, and what it felt like to be recognized nationally for three decades of service that usually happens far from the spotlight.

What We Discuss:

The Foundation: The “spark” that led to the establishment of what became Lifeline Inishowen over 30 years ago.

The Inishowen Factor: Why a dedicated service is so critical for a peninsula where the nearest major town can be a 50-mile journey for those in crisis.

A National Honor: Mary’s reaction to winning the 2026 AXA Community Hero Award and how the €20,000 prize will be used to further the charity’s mission.

Evolving Support: How the conversation around domestic safety has changed in Donegal since the 1990s and the impact of their recent school awareness programs.

The Power of One: Mary’s philosophy on community care and why she remains as dedicated today as she was three decades ago.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep15: The Lifeline of Inishowen – Mary Doherty appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

On today’s program, we start with our usual dive into the morning papers to see what’s grabbing the headlines across the country and here in Donegal.

In This Episode:

The ‘Manasphere’ & Modern Parenting: Journalist and author Kathy Donaghey joins Greg to discuss the unsettling new Netflix documentary Manasphere. She shares her concerns as a mother regarding the online world’s influence on young men and the challenges of navigating these digital subcultures.

The Fight for St. Eunan’s College: Following yesterday’s high-stakes meeting with Education Minister Hildegarde Naughton, Principal Damien McCrory provides an update on the campaign for emergency funding. With planning permission at risk of expiring, the pressure is on to bring the Letterkenny facility up to modern standards.

Defining Consent Across Borders: MEP Maria Walsh highlights a major legislative gap in the EU, discussing the lack of consistency in how rape is defined and her push for a common, consent-based standard across all member states.

Defending the Tricolour: Senator Eileen Flynn addresses the backlash to her recent comments regarding the national flag. She joins us to put her views into context following the recent fuel protests that brought the country to a standstill.

Health & Business: Ciara Mooney of Physio Éireann talks to us about the “silent disease,” Osteoporosis, and why early detection is vital for long-term mobility. Plus, Chris Ashmore drops in with the latest business news and a look ahead to this week’s Business Matters podcast.

The Greg Hughes Show – keeping you across the stories that matter in Donegal.

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On today’s program, we start with a look at the morning’s papers before diving into a growing concern for electric vehicle drivers. Stephen joins us to share how he was caught out by a “fast charger exploit”—discovering his car had been unplugged by another driver looking to jump the queue. We ask if charging etiquette has gone out the window or if there’s a deeper security flaw in the network.

Anna shares a heartbreaking account of the “Assessment of Needs” system. Her child has been waiting three years for an assessment—a staggering delay that stands in direct defiance of the Disability Act 2005, which legally mandates that these assessments be completed within six months. We look at why the system is failing our most vulnerable children.

In local politics, Cllr Jack Murray makes the case for a major traffic shake-up on the Slab Road. To address ongoing safety issues at notorious junctions, he’s calling for the road to be made one-way. Meanwhile, Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig says it’s time for the Government to step up for Glenveagh National Park, arguing that full staffing is essential to keep the castle doors open for tours seven days a week.

We celebrate the next generation of business talent as the Local Enterprise Office announces the Donegal finalists for the Student Enterprise Programme National Final. We’re joined in studio by Shay McDevitt (St. Columba’s College), Cullen Boyle (Rosses Community School), and Danni Doherty (Loreto Letterkenny) to talk about their journey to the final on May 7th.

Finally, listener John joins us to vent his frustrations with the state of Irish politics. With a growing number of TDs in the Dáil, John asks: why is it still so hard to find someone worth voting for?

The Greg Hughes Show—keeping you across the stories that matter in Donegal.

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Remembering the First Lady of Celtic Music

Following our morning look at the newspapers, the show takes a poignant turn as we pay tribute to the incomparable Moya Brennan, who passed away this Monday. The voice of Clannad and a global ambassador for Donegal, Moya’s legacy is celebrated by those who knew her best:

Daniel O’Donnell shares his personal reflections on a lifelong friendship and Moya’s impact on Irish music.

Mairéad Ní Mhaonaigh of Altan discusses Moya’s role as a trailblazer for the Donegal Gaeltacht and female artists worldwide.

Cllr. Paul Canning, Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council, joins us to speak on the profound sense of loss felt across the county.

Plus: We open the lines to you, our listeners, to share your favorite songs and memories of the woman who brought the “haunting sound of Gweedore” to the world stage.

Cost of Living: Manorcunningham Under Threat

The human cost of rising energy prices hits home as Carmel Doherty of the Manorcunningham Community Resource Centre joins Greg. Carmel explains the stark reality facing the facility: skyrocketing heating oil costs are threatening to shut the doors on a hub that serves hundreds of local residents every week.

Community, Sport & Media Freedom

Community Garda Information: Garda Grainne Doherty provides the latest local appeals and essential safety information for the Donegal community.

Donegal’s Newest Pro: Fresh off his latest victory, Buncrana kickboxer Liam Grant reflects on his meteoric rise and shares his excitement as he prepares to transition into the professional ranks.

Media Under Fire? Seamus Dooley of the NUJ expresses grave concerns regarding recent comments from Minister Patrick O’Donovan. We discuss the implications of a government minister calling into question the media’s coverage of ongoing fuel protests.

Listen Back: Missed any part of the show? Catch the full podcast on our app or website.

“Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam dílis — Rest in Peace, Moya.”

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On today’s programme, we dive deep into the rising tide of public anger as fuel protests take hold across the country. We examine the Government’s recently announced support package and ask: is it enough to keep the lights on, or is it too little, too late?

The Political Divide

Following our morning look at the headlines, we engage in a heated debate over the State’s response to the cost-of-living crisis:

Senator Niall Blaney (Fianna Fáil): Defends the Government’s package as a balanced measure in volatile times.

Pearse Doherty (Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson): Offers a sharp rebuttal, arguing the measures fail to provide the immediate relief struggling households desperately need.

Voices from the Ground

As businesses across the region shut their doors in solidarity, we hear from those at the heart of the struggle:

The Business Impact: Local owners Deidre and Barry explain the difficult decision to close their businesses today, citing unsustainable overheads and soaring energy costs.

Protest Strategy: Donegal activist Mark Hegarty joins Greg to discuss the future of the movement, issuing a warning to organizers: stay focused and strategic to ensure the public remains on your side.

The Forgotten Sector: Representatives from the Inshore Fishing sector voice their frustration, claiming the Government’s package completely overlooks their industry’s unique needs.

Confidence in the Dáil

Despite the mounting pressure, political stability remains on a knife-edge. Marian Harkin TD and Deputy Pat “The Cope” Gallagher join the show. While both express deep sympathy for the public’s plight, they confirm they will be voting confidence in the Government this week.

A Musical Interlude

To close out the show on a high note, we’re joined in the studio by the incredibly talented Amy Meehan. Ahead of her highly anticipated UK tour, Amy shares a chat with Greg and performs some exclusive live music.

Listen back to the full show below:

The post The Greg Hughes Show Monday 13/04/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

On today’s show, we navigate the sharp contrast between the pressing political issues of today and a poignant look back at a tragedy that shook the heart of Letterkenny forty years ago.

The Friday Panel: Fuel Hikes & Public Defiance

Spiralling fuel costs are no longer just a kitchen-table concern—they have moved to the streets. Greg is joined by Deputy Charles Ward, Paddy Rooney, and Rebecca McDaid to discuss the nationwide protests sparked by the latest price surges.

Is the government doing enough to cushion the blow for rural Ireland?

Can the protests force a policy U-turn?

The panel debates the economic fallout and the growing frustration among motorists and hauliers.

40 Years On: The O’Donnell Family Tragedy

We share a moving preview of this week’s ‘The Greg Hughes Podcast.’ In a deeply personal interview, Angela O’Donnell and her son Philip reflect on the 40th anniversary of the house fire at Ard O’Donnell that claimed the lives of four siblings—Sharon, Joanne, Adrian, and Kevin—and their brave babysitter, Noreen O’Donnell, who died while trying to rescue them. It is a story of unimaginable loss, but also of a family’s incredible resilience and the enduring support of the Letterkenny community.

Legal Matters & Social Trends

Legal Aid with Seamus Gunn: Solicitor Seamus Gunn of McCloughan Gunn & Co. joins us to provide his expert insight into your legal queries. From property disputes to consumer rights, Seamus tackles the issues affecting you.

Shannen’s Scroll Patrol: What’s catching the eye of the “Reply Guys” and what’s going viral in Donegal? Shannen Wilkin joins Greg to round up the best (and weirdest) trends from the social media world this week.

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In April 1986, a fire at the O’Donnell family home changed the course of five lives and left a community in shock. It has been forty years since that night, yet for Angela O’Donnell and her sons, the memory of those lost—Sharon, Joanne, Adrian, and baby Kevin—remains a constant presence.

This week, Angela and her son Philip join the podcast to talk about that night and the long road they have walked since.

They speak about the children who didn’t make it out, and the bravery of their babysitter, 25-year-old Noreen O’Donnell, who gave her life attempting to save them. Philip, who was just 13 at the time, reflects on escaping the blaze with his brothers Patrick and Joe, and how that moment shaped the men they became.

This is not just a look back at a tragedy; it is a conversation about the strength of a mother and how a family carries the weight of such a profound loss for forty years.

We are deeply grateful to Angela and Philip for their courage in sharing this story with us.

The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep14: 40 Years Since the O’Donnell Family Tragedy appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

The airwaves were busy today as we tackled the rising tide of public dissent, personal triumphs, and local legends making a global impact. Here is a look back at what went down in this hour of the show.

The People’s Protest: A Nation at Odds?

We took an extensive look at the morning newspapers, which are dominated by the escalating fuel protests. We heard directly from the front lines, featuring voices from:

Farmers & Hauliers: Discussing the unsustainable costs of keeping the wheels of industry turning.

Carers & Promoters: Highlighting how the fuel crisis is trickling down to the most vulnerable and the arts sector.

The Survey Results: We revealed the staggering findings of a recent survey of 5,000 people. The data shows 99.4% support for the protests—a figure that stands in stark contrast to recent dismissive comments from Government leaders.

Living with Tourette’s: Oscor’s Story

In a truly moving segment, we were joined by 13-year-old Oscor, his mother Melanie, and his aunt, Cllr Joy Beard. Oscor, who lives with Tourette’s, spoke about his advocacy work and the power of representation.

Raising Awareness: The family reflected on how films like ‘I Swear’ are vital in dismantling stigmas.

Oscor’s Mission: We heard about the incredible work this young man is doing to educate his peers and the wider community.

Social Inclusion & Local Stars

Social Inclusion Week: Katie McGee from Cara House Family Resource Centre called in to give us a sneak peek at their packed program. From community workshops to social gatherings, there is something for everyone to feel connected this week.

To the Moon and Back: Inver native Dr. Peter Coyle shared the fascinating story of his career and the critical role he played in the success of the Apollo 11 mission. It’s not every day you talk to a man who helped put boots on the lunar surface!

Business Matters: As always, Chris Ashmore dropped by to preview the latest episode of the Business Matters podcast, keeping us up to speed on the local economy.

The post The Greg Hughes Show Thursday 09/04/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

Legislative Protection & Victim Safety

We open the show with a look at the morning newspapers and a significant legislative proposal from Deputy Matt Carthy. Carthy discusses his new proposals aimed at closing a gap in the justice system. The legislation would allow judges to impose a protection order at the point of conviction, ensuring that once a perpetrator is released from prison, they are legally barred from being in the vicinity of their victim.

The Fuel Crisis & Public Protest

The rising cost of living continues to bite, leading to renewed fuel protests.

Krissi Watson, known for her TikTok insights as a “haulier’s wife,” joins us to discuss the disruption. While acknowledging the inconvenience to the public, she argues that these protests are a necessary stand against spiralling costs.

Cllr Tomas Sean Devine offers a different perspective, expressing his disappointment at the low turnout for this morning’s protest in Letterkenny, questioning the momentum behind the movement.

Access Denied: Trá na Rossan

A local controversy is brewing in Downings regarding the removal of public access to Trá na Rossan beach. The closure has sparked outrage among locals and tourists alike. However, Cllr Liam Blaney joins the program to provide an update, stating he is “hopeful” that a resolution will be reached in the near future to restore access.

The DCB Office: A Tone-Deaf Hold Tone?

Mica/DCB campaigner Marti McElhinney voices his frustration with Donegal County Council. He highlights what he describes as an “insulting” choice of hold music: ‘The Homes of Donegal.’ McElhinney argues that playing a song celebrating Donegal homes to people who are currently watching theirs crumble due to defective blocks shows a staggering lack of empathy.

AI in Business: Help or Hinderance?

Is AI-generated content hurting the “shop local” vibe? Shaun McGonigle of Grow Path Media joins us to discuss the pitfalls of modern marketing. He suggests that small businesses may actually be driving customers away by using overly polished or “fake-looking” AI images instead of authentic, human-led content.

Global Politics & Local Views

Finally, we turn our eyes toward the United States. Retired Sergeant Christie Galligan joins the show to discuss the current political climate, stating his firm belief that Donald Trump is not fit for office as the race for the White House continues to dominate global headlines.

Don’t forget to subscribe to The Greg Hughes Podcast for your daily dose of Donegal news, politics, and local stories.

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