The Greg Hughes Show

The Greg Hughes Show

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The Greg Hughes Show episodes

  • The Greg Hughes Show Wednesday 11/03/2026

    In today’s episode, Greg navigates a packed agenda ranging from the lived experiences of students and the development of local education to major national economic proposals and the future of Donegal’s transport infrastructure.

    Education & Advocacy: Addressing Racial Abuse

    Harrison Rossiter McGuire from the Irish Second-Level Students’ Union (ISSU) joins the show to discuss a new survey that sheds light on the distressing extent of racial abuse within the school system. Harrison breaks down the data and discusses what needs to change to ensure every student feels safe in the classroom.

    Inclusion in Action: Little Angels School

    A celebration of progress at Little Angels School. Principal Ailbhe Dunne and parent Leonard Watson sit down with Greg to talk about the recent opening of their state-of-the-art sensory room. While it’s a massive win for the students, they also look ahead at the ongoing challenges and the support still required for special education facilities in the region.

    Fuel Crisis: Sinn Féin’s Economic Proposals

    As conflict in the Middle East continues to drive energy costs upward, Sinn Féin Finance spokesperson Pearse Doherty joins us to outline his party’s strategy. He discusses specific proposals aimed at easing the financial burden on consumers and why he believes the government must act faster to curb rising fuel prices at the pump.

    The Great Rail Debate: Barnesmore Gap

    The proposed miniature railway through Barnesmore Gap has sparked a debate over long-term infrastructure. Mary Casey of the Donegal West Ulster Initiative explains why she believes this project must not be allowed to jeopardize the broader vision for a permanent Letterkenny to Sligo Rail Link.

    Community & Empowerment: The Heart of Women Festival

    To wrap up the show, Holly Bonner brings some local inspiration as she previews the upcoming “Heart of Women” Festival in Ballybofey. From workshops to networking, Holly shares what attendees can expect and why this event is a vital date for the community calendar.

    The post The Greg Hughes Show Wednesday 11/03/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

    1 hr 24 min
  • The Greg Hughes Show Tuesday 03/03/2026

     

     

    Today on the show, we’ve got a packed Tuesday lineup covering everything from international drama for local legends to the future of our county’s connectivity.

    On Today’s Program:
    • The Morning Papers: We dive into the front pages to see what’s making the headlines across Donegal and nationally this morning.

    • Eric Roberts’ Big Week: Our favorite TikTok star-turned-presenter joins Greg ahead of a massive few days. Eric is preparing for his Wednesday homecoming in Donegal before he takes to the floor for the Dancing with the Stars Grand Final this Sunday.

    • Supporting Mothers at St. Conal’s: Lactation Consultant Mary McFeely discusses the vital new infant feeding facilities now available at St. Conal’s in Letterkenny. We hear how these dedicated spaces are supporting breastfeeding mothers and families visiting the campus.

    • The Whistlin’ Donkeys Robbed in Chicago: A distressing update from the US as Fergal McAloon joins us to discuss the band being targeted by thieves in Chicago. Their tour vehicle was ransacked, leaving the group without passports, luggage, or cash.

    • Donegal Airport PSO Update: Manager Ailis Docherty provides a crucial update following this week’s high-stakes meeting with the Department of Transport regarding the Donegal-Dublin PSO. We look at the concerns surrounding the loss of afternoon flights and the future of our air links.

    • Community Garda Information: Garda Grainne Doherty is in-studio with her weekly look at local crime prevention, road safety, and how you can help keep our communities safe.

    • Comedy with Max Roddy: Derry comedian Max Roddy chats to Greg about his meteoric rise and his upcoming show, Peter Pan, coming to An Grianán Theatre this May.

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

      1 hr 26 min
    • The Greg Hughes Show Friday 06/03/26

      On today’s program, Greg is joined by our Friday Panel—Former Cllr Nicolas Crossan, businessman Leonard Watson, and Cllr Brian Carr—to tackle the big stories hitting the headlines in Donegal and beyond.

      The Big Debates

      The DCB Crisis: We discuss the urgent calls for a Council rent freeze for tenants living in social housing affected by Defective Concrete Blocks. Is enough being done to protect those most vulnerable to the housing crisis?

      Fuel & the Middle East: Following the ongoing conflict, we ask the panel if the price at the pump is a fair reflection of the market or if we are seeing evidence of price gouging on fuel.

      The Creeslough Families: We examine the fallout from Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s recent comments. Was his response to the Creeslough families’ request for a meeting insensitive, or was he simply stating the legal reality?

      Also on Today’s Show

      Podcast Preview: We get a sneak peek at this week’s The Greg Hughes Podcast with a special clip featuring guest Mr. Michael Sugrue.

      Legal Advice: Solicitor Seamus Gunn joins us to provide his expert breakdown of listener’s legal queries, covering everything from property rights to personal law.

      Listener Feedback: We wrap up the show by going through your comments and reactions to the week’s news.

      Stay informed. Stay involved.

      The post The Greg Hughes Show Friday 06/03/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

      1 hr 26 min
    • The Greg Hughes Podcast – Ep9: A Legacy of Care: The Michael Sugrue Interview

      As he prepares to hang up his scrubs at Letterkenny University Hospital on March 12th, Mr. Michael Sugrue joins Greg Hughes to look back on a career defined by innovation, advocacy, and a deep love for his adopted home of Donegal.

      From his early days in Galway to two decades at the forefront of trauma surgery in Sydney, Michael’s medical journey has been nothing short of global. He brought that expertise back to the North West in 2008, where he hasn’t just treated patients—he has transformed the landscape of local healthcare.

      In this episode, we discuss:

      • A Legacy in Breast Surgery: His dedicated career as a Consultant Breast Surgeon and his tireless work ensuring the service at LUH is left in a strong position, with new specialists and radiologists ready to carry on the mission.

      • Fighting for Donegal: His role in the Donegal Clinical Academy Trust and the tireless campaigns for better breast care services and surgical facilities.
      • Giving Back: The story behind the North West Breast Cancer Charity Ball and how it brings world-class research to our doorstep.
      • The Artist’s Eye: His passion for photography and his stunning coffee-table books that capture the raw beauty of the Atlantic Way.
      • The Next Chapter: Life after the hospital, his favorite Donegal walking routes, and his upcoming plans to teach abroad.
      • Michael leaves the hospital in a strong position with a growing team of specialists, but his presence on the wards will be greatly missed. Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with a true gentleman of the North West.

        Listen now to The Greg Hughes Podcast.

        The post The Greg Hughes Podcast – Ep9: A Legacy of Care: The Michael Sugrue Interview appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

        1 hr 7 min
      • The Greg Hughes Show Thursday 05/03/2026

        In today’s program, we cover a range of pressing local issues, from the emotional return of a Donegal native from the Middle East to ongoing frustrations with healthcare and housing in the Northwest.

        Headlines & Highlights:

        Morning Paper Review: We kick off the show with our daily deep dive into the headlines making waves in the national and local press.

        A Journey Home: We hear from Anna Callaghan, who has just touched down in Dublin on a repatriation flight following the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Anna is joined by her mother, Patricia, to discuss the relief of being back on Irish soil after a harrowing period of uncertainty.

        LUH Dermatology Crisis: Despite a formal recommendation for a dedicated Dermatologist at Letterkenny University Hospital, the post has not been approved. We get a reaction to this setback from GP Dr. Ciara Steele and Cllr. Declan Meehan, who discuss the impact on the 1,800+ patients currently on waiting lists.

        Community Support: David Murphy joins Greg to talk about a new initiative he has established to support individuals living with movement disorders, highlighting the importance of local peer support networks.

        A New Chapter for the Presbyterian Church: We speak with Reverend Richard Kerr, the newly elected Moderator-Designate of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. Growing up in Ramelton and Milford, Rev. Kerr discusses his strong Donegal roots and his vision for his upcoming term.

        The Wait for Relief: Listener Moya shares her personal frustration regarding the extensive waiting lists for life-changing steroid injections for painful knees, shedding light on the human cost of healthcare delays.

        Housing & Defective Concrete: Cllr. Ali Farren discusses the growing calls for a rent freeze for Council tenants living in homes affected by defective concrete, as families continue to grapple with the DCB crisis.

        Business Matters: Chris Ashmore joins us with the latest local business news and a preview of the newest episode of the Business Matters podcast.

        The post The Greg Hughes Show Thursday 05/03/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

        1 hr 23 min
      • The Greg Hughes Show Wednesday 04/03/2026

        On today’s show, we navigate the fallout of global conflict on local pockets and hear incredible stories of resilience from the heart of the Donegal community.

        The Headlines: Fuel Prices Out of Control

        We open the papers to a grim reality: spiraling fuel costs driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. With petrol and diesel prices climbing daily, Greg looks at the “Fuel Fever” sweeping the nation.

        Listener Response: We hear from you. How is the cost of the commute affecting your family, and is it time for the government to step in with more than just “sympathy”?

        Healthcare: Donegal’s €35 Million Roadmap

        Dermot Monaghan, Integrated Health Care Manager for Donegal, joins Greg in the studio. We break down the newly announced €35 Million Capital Plan for the county.

        Which facilities are getting the upgrades?

        What is the timeline for these major infrastructure projects?

        Can we recruit the staff to match the investment?

        Seachtain na Gaeilge & Community Courage

        Celebrating Our Language: To mark Seachtain na Gaeilge, Bairbre Uí Chathail tells us what’s happening across the county to celebrate the Irish language and how you can get involved locally.

        The Ultimate Leap of Faith: Laura Brady shares her emotional and inspiring story. She is preparing to abseil off the roof of Croke Park to raise vital funds for Rare Diseases Ireland. Laura discusses her son’s diagnosis—Spastic Paraplegia 26—a condition so rare he is one of only six people in the world living with it.

        Culture: From Gander to Letterkenny

        Finally, Maria Rushe of the Letterkenny Musical Society is in the studio. We get a behind-the-scenes look at their upcoming production of Come From Away at An Grianán Theatre. It’s a story of kindness in the face of tragedy—and one you won’t want to miss.

        The post The Greg Hughes Show Wednesday 04/03/2026 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

        1 hr 30 min
      • The Greg Hughes Show Tuesday 03/03/2026

         

         

        Welcome to the podcast for today’s edition of the Greg Hughes Show. Today, we navigate a complex landscape of new national regulations, healthcare recruitment crises, and the personal stories of the Donegal diaspora caught in global conflict.

        The Morning Papers

        Greg kicks off the show with a comprehensive look at the front pages, focusing on the stories making waves across the county and the national headlines shaping the conversation.

        New Rules for Renters & Landlords

        Louise Loughlin, Deputy Director of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB), joins us to break down the significant legislative changes that came into effect on March 1st. We discuss:

        The introduction of rolling six-year tenancies (Tenancies of Minimum Duration).

        New restrictions on “no-fault” evictions for larger landlords.

        How rent increases are now tied to inflation (CPI), capped at 2%.

        The distinction between small and large landlords in the new regulatory landscape.

        Paramedics in Limbo

        David from Lifeline Ambulance Service joins Greg to voice sharp criticism of the HSE. It has emerged that dozens of newly qualified paramedics—frontline clinicians who have completed rigorous training—are being left without permanent contracts. We explore the impact on morale and the stability of the National Ambulance Service.

        Voices from the Middle East

        As conflict escalates in the Middle East, we hear from Daire Nolan. Originally from Raphoe, Daire joins us live from Dubai to describe the atmosphere on the ground, the impact of recent regional strikes, and the reality for the Irish diaspora living amidst the rising tensions.

        Buncrana Parking Row

        We hear from local politicians and members of the business community who are mobilizing against any moves to scrap the 30-minute free parking period in Buncrana. Is this a vital lifeline for local trade, or a luxury the council can no longer afford?

        Community Garda Information

        Garda Grainne Doherty returns for her regular segment, providing essential updates on local crime prevention, road safety initiatives, and community alerts to help keep your neighborhood safe.

        Better Hearing with Hidden Hearing

        Finally, Mike Hearne from Hidden Hearing joins Greg to discuss the latest advancements in hearing aid technology. Mike answers listener queries and offers advice on identifying early signs of hearing loss and the various treatment options available.

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

        1 hr 26 min
      • Donegal woman describes ‘surreal’ scenes as Iran fires missiles at Dubai

        A Donegal woman living in Dubai has told of the shock and fear as a series of explosions can be heard close to her home.

        Niamh Campbell spoke to Greg Hughes as Iran fired rockets across the middle east in retaliation against the US and Israeli attacks which began early on Saturday.

        The Middle East has been plunged into a volatile new phase of conflict following a major joint military offensive by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. In a massive retaliatory response, Tehran launched waves of missile and drone strikes targeting regional hubs and military installations, including those near Dubai. This rapid escalation has forced the immediate closure of airspace across the Gulf, leaving thousands of Irish trapped and monitoring the horizon as explosions and interceptors light up the night sky.

        Niamh told Greg they never imagined this might happen:

        The post Donegal woman describes ‘surreal’ scenes as Iran fires missiles at Dubai appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

        11 min
      • The Greg Hughes Show Friday 27/02/26

        On today’s show, we dive deep into the big debates affecting both the nation and the local streets of Donegal, plus a packed lineup of music and community spirit.

        The Friday Panel

        Greg is joined by Brid Curran (Solicitor), Cllr Patrick McGowan, and Paddy Rooney (Friends of LUH) to tackle the week’s heaviest headlines:

        • The Price of Neutrality: In light of Ireland’s contribution to the €90 billion EU loan for Ukraine, the panel asks where our “triple lock” stands and what our financial commitments mean for our neutral status.

        • Policing in Donegal: From daylight crime to persistent anti-social behavior, there is a growing concern over the lack of Garda visibility. Is the “thin blue line” getting too thin in the Northwest?

          Coming Up Later…
          • The Greg Hughes Podcast: Greg previews his latest sit-down with D:Ream frontman and DERRY native Peter Cunnah. We hear about the highs, the lows, and the music that defined an era.

          • Cór Ailigh: Members of the Letterkenny-based choir join us in-studio to discuss their upcoming concert. We’re even treated to a special live performance to kick off the weekend.

          • The James Russell Memorial: We get the details on an ambitious upcoming Tractor Run organized in memory of James Russell, raising funds for vital causes.

          • Shannen’s Scroll Patrol: Shannen Wilkin stops by to sift through the weird, the wonderful, and the viral stories trending across the county and beyond

            The post The Greg Hughes Show Friday 27/02/26 appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

            1 hr 27 min
          • The Greg Hughes Podcast – Episode 8: Pop, Parents, and Peace: The Peter Cunnah Interview

            “Things Can Only Get Better” was more than just a hit; it was the soundtrack to a generation’s optimism. But for D:Ream frontman Peter Cunnah, the journey to finding his own “better” has been a complex, lifelong pursuit of identity and home.

            In this candid interview, Peter takes us behind the platinum records and the bright lights of the 90s. We explore a life story that began at the Nazareth House mother and baby home, moved through the streets of Derry, and eventually led to a global stage.

            Now, at 60, Peter is reflecting on the “final pieces of the jigsaw”—from meeting his biological father and discovering a famous musical half-brother to settling into a new chapter of life overlooking Lough Swilly in County Donegal.

            What We Discuss:
            • The Early Years: Being born in a mother and baby home and his upbringing in Derry.

            • The D:Ream Phenomenon: The highs, the lows, and the legacy of a global #1 hit.

            • A Journey of Discovery: The emotional process of navigating his adoption and finally connecting with his birth father.

            • A Musical Revelation: The incredible story of finding his half-brother, Jamiroquai bassist Stuart Zender.

            • The Autobiography: Why now is the right time to put his life story into words.

            • Coming Home: Why he chose the rugged beauty of Donegal to settle down.

              The post The Greg Hughes Podcast – Episode 8: Pop, Parents, and Peace: The Peter Cunnah Interview appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport.

              48 min

            About The Greg Hughes Show

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            The conversations that matter, from Donegal and beyond. Join Greg Hughes on Highland Radio for a daily mix of breaking news, current affairs, lively debate and in-depth interviews. Hear the voices…