The Greg Hughes Show

Welcome to this special bonus episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast.

On September 11, 2001, 19 al-Qaeda militants hijacked four commercial airliners in a coordinated terrorist attack against the United States, taking 2,977 civilian lives—including 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice at the World Trade Center.

Marking the upcoming 25th anniversary of that fateful day, a team of six Donegal firefighters is preparing to travel to the US East Coast for the 2026 Ride for Resilience—a five-day, 343-mile charity cycle from Boston to New York City. The trek will raise vital funds for three major organizations: Friends of Firefighters, Livestrong, and the Boston Fire Cancer Foundation.

Joining me on the podcast to discuss the journey, the deep transatlantic bond between Donegal and New York, and the lasting legacy of 9/11 is Conor McGuigan, Chairperson of the Donegal Firefighters Association, along with Nancy Carbone, Founder and Executive Director of Friends of Firefighters.

We are also privileged to be joined by two FDNY veterans who were on the ground on September 11th: Captain Liam Flaherty of Rescue Co. 2 and Deputy Chief John Corcoran. Together, they share their personal accounts from Ground Zero, reflect on how technical rescue has evolved over the last quarter-century, and discuss why community, remembrance, and standing together still matter so much today.

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Today we kick off the weekend with The Friday Panel tackling international political meetings, agricultural bans, and healthcare spending, along with comedy, legal insights, and a life-changing cash giveaway.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: MEP Ciarán Mullooly, Councillor Patrick McGowan, and Patricia Sharkey join Greg in-studio for an extensive first-hour discussion:

Proposed EU Brazilian Beef Ban: The panel evaluates proposed European Commission restrictions on Brazilian beef imports, discussing trade equity, environmental standards, and market impacts for Irish beef farmers.

Pets on Public Transport: The guests debate proposals to permit dogs and small pets on public buses, weighing animal welfare and commuter convenience against safety and health concerns.

President Connolly Meets President Trump: The panel analyzes political dynamics and diplomatic strategy following President Connolly’s high-level meeting with US President Donald Trump.

HSE Funding & Conference Controversy: The panel addresses public concerns regarding HSE grant allocations for external events, specifically examining a recent medical conference in Galway that featured a speaker who previously presented on male breastfeeding at fetish conventions.

The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We preview the latest episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, featurin comedian Paddy McDonnell, who stops by for a chat about his mental health battles,  tour life and stand-up comedy.

Legal Advice & The Lindsay Clancy Case: Solicitor Seamus Gunn drops into the studio to answer listener legal queries and provides legal analysis on the high-profile Lindsay Clancy case in the US, breaking down the complexities surrounding mental health defenses, postpartum psychosis, and legal accountability.

Highland Radio Mega Cash Draw: We wrap up today’s program on a high note by crowning our grand prize winner and giving away €10,000 cash to one lucky listener live on air!

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

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This week on The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg is joined by one of the sharpest storytellers in Northern Irish comedy—West Belfast’s own Paddy McDonnell!

From his early days launching his stand-up career back in 2011 to quickly supporting comedy giants like Des Bishop and Ardal O’Hanlon, Paddy has carved out a massive reputation across Ireland and beyond. In this episode, Paddy sits down with Greg to chat about drawing hilarious material from his former life behind the wheel as a taxi driver, balancing family life, breaking records as the first comedian to perform at the West Belfast Féile six times, and taking his stand-up across the globe to Irish audiences in America and Australia.

Plus, Paddy talks about his massive headline runs—from selling out Belfast’s Waterfront Hall, Ulster Hall, and back-to-back SSE Arena shows—to bringing his hit new solo show to Donegal!

Catch Paddy McDonnell Live in Donegal:

Letterkenny: Paddy Power FULL at An Grianán Theatre — Saturday, September 12th at 8:00 PM (Age 18+)

Ballyshannon: Abbey Arts Centre — October 10th, 2026

Ballybofey: Balor Arts Centre — October 16th, 2026

Tickets & Info: Book directly through the An Grianán Theatre Box Office or via Paddy’s official website.

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Today we explore the devastating real-world consequences of social media account bans for local businesses, a decade-long milestone for a Donegal primary school, West Donegal traffic protests, and housing displacement in Inishowen.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily review of the front pages, tracking key regional, national, and political news stories making headlines today.

Arbitrary Social Media Bans & Small Business Impact: Terrie Burton of Terrie Burton Photography joins Greg to share her alarming experience after her professional Facebook and Instagram accounts were randomly banned due to automated false flagging. Terrie outlines the severe financial and operational impact on her photography business and details the exhaustive administrative hurdles she had to navigate to finally get the wrongful ban overturned.

Scoil Náisiúnta Gort a’ Choirce Adopts Saint Carlo Acutis: Principal Patricia Uí Arlaigh of Scoil Náisiúnta Gort a’ Choirce discusses a landmark moment for the school community. Following a ten-year journey, the school will formally adopt Saint Carlo Acutis—known worldwide as the patron saint of the internet—as their official school patron this coming Sunday, reflecting on what his modern legacy means for the students.

Inishowen Housing Crisis Hits Buncrana Family: Listener Tansy calls in to highlight her family’s desperate situation after receiving notice to vacate their rented home later this year. Tansy makes an urgent public plea to property owners and landlords across Buncrana and the wider Inishowen area to help secure long-term accommodation for her, her partner, and their two young children.

On the Ground at the Lettermacaward Road Safety Protest: Reporter Ryan Brolly delivers a special report live from Lettermacaward, where local residents and campaign groups have gathered along the N56 to protest against excessive traffic speeds and demand immediate engineering interventions to safeguard the local community.

Allowing Pets on Public Transport: We discuss proposals being considered to allow dogs and small pets on public buses, weighing passenger accessibility, safety guidelines, and hygiene concerns against the convenience for pet owners and travelers without personal transport.

Listener Feedback: We dip into the busy text lines to catch up on listener reactions regarding Letterkenny’s ongoing traffic congestion, the recent controversy surrounding lactation terms and infant feeding discourse, and municipal parking updates.

Business Matters Preview: Chris Ashmore drops by with today’s commercial news and previews the latest episode of the Business Matters podcast.

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

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Today’s show is a special broadcast focusing on unprecedented gridlock across Letterkenny, as the return of schools collides with Active Travel infrastructure works, alongside growing outrage over proposed hikes to town center parking fees.

Inside Today’s Episode:

Special Report: Letterkenny Traffic Gridlock & Parking Hikes: We dedicate today’s program to analyzing the severe traffic congestion crippling Letterkenny as schools reopen alongside ongoing Active Travel roadworks, while town center businesses face new commercial pressures:

Driving Instructors’ Unprecedented Cancellations: Colette O’Donnell of O’Donnell’s School of Motoring reveals that, for the first time in her 32-year career, she has been forced to cancel driving lessons due to severe, unpredictable traffic delays across the town.

Taxi Trade at a Standstill: Local taxi driver Anthony Arthur describes gridlock conditions as the worst he has ever experienced, leaving drivers stranded in traffic and passengers facing massive delays and rising fares.

Impact on School Runs: Kyle from McGettigan Travel reports that private and school bus transport runs are experiencing extreme delays, leaving students stressed, anxious, and routinely arriving late for class.

Commercial Shock Over 150% Parking Fee Increase: Letterkenny Chamber member and local business owner Leonard Watson shares these traffic concerns and voices outrage over proposed 150% increases to Main Street parking charges. Leonard argues that Donegal County Council should be incentivizing town center business development rather than penalizing shoppers and driving footfall away.

Frustrated Motorists Call In: We open the phone lines to hear directly from gridlocked commuters, parents, and local workers sharing their firsthand experiences and calls for urgent traffic management intervention.

In the Garden with Paul McLoughlin: We shift gears to welcome resident gardening expert Paul McLoughlin back to the studio. As we enter meteorological autumn, Paul takes listener calls and offers practical guidance on preparing flowerbeds, protecting delicate plants, and seasonal garden maintenance for the months ahead.

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

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Today we explore potential European bans on Brazilian beef imports, the harsh legal realities facing medical professionals, local law enforcement appeals, and decades of state corruption scandals.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We open the program with our daily scan through the national and regional newspapers, catching up on the top headlines, agricultural updates, and political news.

Proposed EU Ban on Brazilian Beef: We analyze proposals by the European Commission to restrict or ban Brazilian beef imports from entering the EU market:

Farming Perspective: Adam Woods of the Irish Farmers Journal breaks down the trade dynamics, safety concerns, and potential market impacts for Irish beef producers.

Donegal IFA Reaction: Donegal IFA Chair Joe Sweeney joins the show to outline local farmers’ views, emphasizing the need for fair competition and strict environmental and traceabilty standards on all imported meat.

The Personal Toll of Legal Battles in Medicine: Former Letterkenny breast surgeon Mr. Michael Sugrue reflects on the grueling legal challenges he and other medical professionals face. Mr. Sugrue discusses the severe emotional, professional, and personal toll exacted by lengthy litigation—even when practitioners, as in his case, are completely vindicated.

Autism Representation in New Animated Series: Gráinne McGuinness of Paper Owl Films discusses the premiere of their new animated series Pablo: Boy Meets School. She highlights how the show authentically depicts the school life and everyday experiences of an autistic lead character, fostering empathy and understanding among young viewers.

Debate Over Betting in Pubs: Independent Deputy Michael Collins criticizes recent regulatory crackdowns on informal sports betting in pubs. Deputy Collins argues that small-scale betting in rural public houses should be permitted under controlled circumstances to support local community social life.

Community Garda Information: Garda Gráinne Doherty delivers this week’s update from Donegal Gardaí, sharing the latest public safety appeals, crime prevention advice, and road safety alerts across the division.

Exposed: Scandals That Rocked The State: Investigative journalist and author Frank Connolly joins Greg to discuss his new book, Exposed: Scandals That Rocked The State. Frank reflects on decades of political, financial, and policing scandals that he covered throughout his career, examining their lasting impact on modern Ireland.

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

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Today we address a major environmental incident on the Crana River, growing alarm over class sizes in Donegal primary schools, controversy surrounding a national medical conference speaker, and local health and road safety campaigns.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our daily scan of the morning papers, tracking the leading regional and national headlines breaking across the country today.

Environmental Investigation into Crana River Fish Kill: Councillor Jack Murray and local angler Kieran Fitzgerald join Greg to reflect on a major fish kill on the Crana River over the weekend. They discuss the devastating impact on local salmon and trout stocks, community anger in Buncrana, and the multi-agency investigation currently underway to identify the source of the pollution.

Donegal Tops Rural Oversized Class Rankings: John Boyle, General Secretary of the INTO (Irish National Teachers’ Organisation), reacts to new figures showing that Donegal has the highest rate of oversized primary school classes in rural Ireland. John breaks down the severe strain this places on teaching staff, the impact on pupil learning and support, and the urgent need for reduced pupil-teacher ratios.

The DL Debate Preview: Brendan Devenney stops by to preview tonight’s edition of The DL Debate podcast, reviewing the weekend’s key GAA club championship performances across the county and setting up tonight’s tactical analysis.

Controversy Over ALCI Conference Speaker: Author and teacher Dr. Joe Kelly hits out at the Association of Lactation Consultants in Ireland (ALCI) following their booking of US speaker Jacob Engelsman for their upcoming Galway conference. Dr. Kelly highlights concerns over Engelsman’s presentation on “lactation support for gender-diverse families”, pointing out his previous talks on “inducing lactation for kinksters” at adult conventions.

Raising Awareness for Congenital Melanocytic Naevus (CMN): Derry resident Laura Kelly calls into the show for an inspiring chat to raise awareness about Congenital Melanocytic Naevus (CMN). Living with 98% of her body covered in birthmarks, Laura shares her personal journey, challenges misconceptions, and promotes positive body image and public understanding.

Road Safety Alert at Ballyare Junction: Listener PJ calls in to highlight driver safety concerns at a local junction in the Ballyare area. PJ warns that motorists are frequently ignoring newly installed STOP signs, creating serious collision risks, and calls for increased enforcement and driver awareness before an accident occurs.

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

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Today we address the ongoing enforcement debate surrounding parking in Letterkenny, pay tribute to a icon of traditional Irish music, review changes to the Defective Concrete Blocks scheme, and highlight upcoming events for International Overdose Awareness Day.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Morning Press: We kick off the program with a scan of the morning papers, tracking the major headlines and breaking stories across the local and national press.

Letterkenny Parking Debate: Local business owner Pat Brady, Cllr Donal Kelly, and local delivery drivers join Greg to debate parking enforcement across Letterkenny:

Enforcement vs. Business: Traders question whether parking wardens are being overzealous and driving shoppers away, or simply carrying out necessary traffic management.

Delivery Dilemma: Delivery driver James highlights the unique logistical challenges faced by courier services in Letterkenny, calling for improved loading bay provisions and practical leniency during peak drop-off hours.

Tribute to Traditional Music Legend Eithne Vallely: Donegal fiddler Martin McGinley joins the show to pay tribute to Lifford-born musician, educator, and Armagh Pipers Club co-founder Eithne Vallely, who tragically passed away aged 81 following a road collision. Martin reflects on her vast legacy and immense contribution to traditional Irish music.

The DL Debate Preview: Brendan Devenney stops by to review the weekend’s local GAA club championship action and previews the analysis lined up for tonight’s edition of The DL Debate podcast.

Defective Concrete Block Scheme Updates: Councillor Martin McDermott breaks down proposed changes to the Defective Concrete Block Grant Scheme, addressing the dilemma facing affected homeowners as they decide whether to proceed with rebuilds under current terms or wait for enhanced scheme terms to take effect.

International Overdose Awareness Day: James Devenney drops into the studio ahead of International Overdose Awareness Day next Monday. James outlines the awareness events, support initiatives, and remembrance gatherings taking place across Letterkenny to reduce stigma and remember those lost to addiction.

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

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Today we pay tribute to a distinguished former Senator and local councillor following his passing, explore cross-border political dynamics on the Friday Panel, address school transport barriers on Aranmore Island, and cross live to Stradbally for Electric Picnic updates.

Inside Today’s Episode:

The Friday Panel: Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, Paddy Rooney, and Councillor Jimmy Brogan join Greg for an extensive Friday discussion:

Northern Ireland Border Poll Ruling: The panel reacts to statements from the British Prime Minister ruling out a border poll in Northern Ireland for the foreseeable future, debating regional sovereignty, political strategy, and constitutional futures.

HSE Drug Funding & Cost-Benefit Analysis: The guests debate the HSE’s strict cost-benefit evaluations for funding life-changing medical drugs, weighing the economic thresholds against patient advocacy and access to rare treatments.

Secular Rights in Faith Schools: Following ongoing public debate, the panel examines proposals by Atheist Ireland calling for structured, non-religious alternative classes for atheist children during faith formation hours in primary and secondary schools.

Tributes to Former Senator Enda Bonner: We reflect on the life and legacy of former Senator, Donegal County Councillor, and CLG An Clochán Liath stalwart Enda Bonner following his passing.

Political & Personal Legacy: Longtime friend and colleague Deputy Pat “The Cope” Gallagher joins Greg to share personal memories of Enda’s decades of public service and commitment to the Rosses.

Community Impact: Former Councillor and Mayor Brendan Byrne reflects on Enda’s dedication as a public representative, accountant, and leader within the GAA community.

School Bus Transport Battle on Aranmore: Gemma, mother to a child with autism living on Aranmore Island, shares her ongoing struggle with Bus Éireann to secure an eligible school bus place, highlighting the unique transportation hurdles faced by island families accessing specialised education services.

Live from Stradbally for Electric Picnic: We cross live to Stradbally as festival season reaches its peak! Shannen Wilkin drops in with an on-the-ground report—updating us on campsite conditions, whether the rain has held off, and what acts festivalgoers are most excited to see over the weekend.

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

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On this week’s episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, Greg sits down with retired teacher, union leader, and veteran politician Doreen Sheridan-Kennedy.

Those who listen to Greg and Doreen on live radio know that while the respect is deep, the on-air verbal jousting is guaranteed! True to form, this civil yet spirited conversation covers four decades in education, a lifetime in Donegal politics, and why she hasn’t ruled out another run for office…

In this episode, Doreen opens up about:

Life, Family & Letterkenny: Growing up in Wolfe Tone Place, working at Dillon’s and the Mount Errigal, and raising five children with her husband Cyril.

40 Years in Education: Her career as Deputy Principal at Illistrin National School and two decades on the national committee of the INTO.

Grassroots Politics: Her deep Fine Gael roots, working alongside Paddy Harte, and her thoughts on Joe McHugh’s departure and the defective blocks crisis.

The Future of Fine Gael: Why Ireland needs more female leaders, her admiration for Helen McEntee, Hildegarde Naughton, and Jennifer Carroll MacNeill, and why you shouldn’t write her off for a political comeback just yet.

New episodes drop every Friday at 11am on highlandradio.com, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

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