Ocean FM News Reports
6,281 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 1 ratingBroadcasting to Sligo, North Leitrim and South Donegal.
North West Business Park, Collooney, Ireland
102.5-105FM
Text/WhatsApp us on 00353 83 3500 530
Telephone 00353 818 365 500 / 00353 71 91 18100 (9am to 6pm Mon to Fri)
Ocean FM is a multi award winning local radio station that broadcasts to the Northwest of Ireland. The station covers the area of South County Donegal, North County Leitrim and County Sligo.
The current CEO of the station is Niall Delaney and the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) lists their target audience as 'being all age, socio-economic and ethnic groups across the community'. The station currently employs 22 full-time and 30 part-time staff.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
Basking sharks spotted off north Sligo coast
April 24, 2024 08:22 - 2 minutes - 2.18 MBA group of basking sharks have been spotted off the north Sligo coast. The massive creatures have been spotted feeding at Mullaghmore in recent days. Basking sharks are the second-largest living fish and are known for their gentle nature and are most frequently sighted in the north Atlantic coast from April to September, particularly in pleasant weather conditions. Local resident and skipper of the Kiwi girl, Declan Kilgannon is advising care around the animals:
Gaelscoil Chluainín to provide solution to Manorhamilton childcare issue
April 24, 2024 08:16 - 2 minutes - 1.96 MBIt looks like the childcare issue in North Leitrim is going to be sorted. Gaelscoil Chluainín in Manorhamilton has confirmed that it will provide childcare facilities for up to 20 children. Places will be available from the new academic year. It follows concerns by the local community over a severe lack of childcare places in the area. Local Independent Cllr Felim Gurn says it'll go some way towards addressing the issue but that ultimately, the Government need to step up to the plate in ...
Funding allocated for new Ballymote library
April 24, 2024 07:50 - 1 minute - 1.1 MBFunding of up to 1.3m has been allocated for a new library in Ballymote. The library will aim to serve the majority of the South Sligo region. It's the second injection of cash for community facilities in Ballymote, after 2.65m was allocated for the development of a community centre over the weekend. Sligo Leitrim TD, Fine Gael's Frank Feighan, says it's an important investment for South Sligo.
Proposal for developments earmarked at Hazelwood and Ballinode
April 24, 2024 06:49 - 1 minute - 465 KBA submission for the rezoning of lands for housing and community facilities in Hazelwood and Ballinode has been welcomed by a local councillor. The proposal includes social housing, student accommodation, and affordable and private housing. Sligo-Drumcliffe Fine Gael Cllr Tom Fox highlighted the importance of matching community demands with the increase of inhabitants in the area. Cllr Fox says that this will be of benefit to all those affected
14 year old Donegal fisherwoman to appear in European Parliament today
April 24, 2024 06:20 - 23 seconds - 373 KBA 14 year old Irish fisherwoman is at the European Parliament in Strasbourg today - campaigning for fair treatment for fishing communities back at home. Muireann Kavanagh from Arranmorae Island off the west coast of County Donegal, is the guest of Sinn Féin MEP for Midlands North West, Chris MacManus. The MEP says Muireann's own experience of being denied fishing rights in her local community has inspired her fight to ensure a future for young people in Ireland's coastal communities.
People Before Profit confirm candidates for upcoming local and European elections
April 23, 2024 14:08 - 2 minutes - 2.27 MBPeople Before Profit have confirmed their three candidates to run in June's local and European election. Sitting councillor, Gino O'Boyle, will seek re-election in the Sligo Strandhill Municipal District, while Emma Hendrick is going to run in the Ballymote Tubbercurry Municipal District. As previously confirmed, Dr Brian O'Boyle will be the party's candidate for Europe in the Midlands North West constituency. This is Ms Hendrick's first time to contest local elections in Sligo, having pr...
Local Cllr rejects concerns over Ballisodare planning site
April 23, 2024 14:00 - 2 minutes - 479 KBConcerns that were raised over a Ballisodare planning site have been dismissed by a local councillor. The site is aimed for a housing project, but it was remarked that the area is unsuitable for the endeavour due to its lack of accessibility. Sligo Sinn Féin Cllr Arthur Gibbons highlighted that he tries to back any proposal that attempts to tackle the ongoing housing crisis. Cllr Gibbons disputed the problems and said that the site is serviceable.
Calls for memorial garden to be built on the site of Creeslough tragedy
April 23, 2024 11:55 - 14 seconds - 226 KBThere is a call build a memorial garden on the site of the Cresslough tragedy. Families of the 10 victims who lost their lives in the explosion in Donegal have expressed their disappointment over plans to rebuild a petrol station and shop on the site. They feel they haven't been listened to in relation to the development. Donna Harper's daughter Leona died in the explosion - she says she'd like to see a memorial in place instead
Massive funding announced for North West through Local Improvement Scheme
April 23, 2024 09:51 - 2 minutes - 2.02 MBA record amount of funding has been announced today for the Local Improvement Scheme. Up to 40m has been allocated nationwide by the Department of Rural and Community Development. The North West will be huge beneficiaries of today's announcement, with 4.7m euro heading for the region. Donegal will receive the biggest share, with just over 2.58m. That's followed by Sligo, getting 1.17m, and Leitrim in line to get just over 966,000. The record investment will be used for repairs and improv...
Concern over Manorhamilton Garda Station
April 23, 2024 09:51 - 2 minutes - 2.07 MBIt's been claimed that Manorhamilton Garda Station isn't open on a full time basis. On several occasions, it's reported that a notice has appeared on the front door of the station advising people to make contact with Carrick-on- Shannon Garda Station with their issues. Local Fine Gael Cllr Sean McDermott says Manorhamilton Garda Station is a very important station and has responsibility for most of North Leitrim. He's hugely concerned at these revelations and is looking for urgen...
Damaged disabled toilet at Rosses Point to reopen this week
April 23, 2024 08:44 - 2 minutes - 1.88 MBIt's expected that the disabled toilet at Rosses Point will reopen later this week. Members of the community were voicing their concern in recent days, with many wanting to use the facility over the weekend, only to find it cordoned off. Work began on Monday, including repairing the door - which was damaged by recent storms - and resurfacing the floor. A project for more permanent facilities at Rosses Point is in the works - Fianna Fail Cllr Donal Gilroy says the slow progress is...
All implications of EU Migration Pact must be debated - Harkin
April 23, 2024 08:44 - 1 minute - 1.82 MBThe European Commission may have more power to decide how many refugees Ireland takes in going forward. That's if the Government decides to opt in to certain parts of the EU Migration pact. Ireland may also be fined if it doesn't take in the intended amount of refugees. TDs are set to discuss the pact at an Oireachtas Justice Committee. Sligo Leitrim Independent TD Marian Harkin says careful consideration must be given to the mass amounts of documentation before any vote is c...
New refugee proposals a step towards system overhaul
April 23, 2024 08:44 - 1 minute - 1.1 MBPlans which would see a new accelerated process for seeking international protection will be brought to Cabinet this morning. Justice Minister Helen McEntee will introduce further measures to stem the flow of people seeking international protection. It will see International Protection applicants from the country which has the highest number of people coming here over the previous three months, go into an accelerated process. This means they will have their cases decided in 90 days. The ...
GRA conference begins despite Justice Minister no-show
April 23, 2024 06:25 - 23 seconds - 370 KBThe GRA conference gets underway in County Mayo today without a Garda Commissioner or Justice Minister in attendance. In a statement last night, Commissioner Drew Harris said he had been looking forward to engaging with delegates on important matters for all Gardaí - IF he had been invited. That invitation was not forthcoming - and Justice Minister Helen McEntee followed with a refusal to attend. President of the Garda Representative Association Brendan O'Connor says the most important pe...
Disappointment as Minister for Health will not open new Ballyshannon hospital
April 23, 2024 06:20 - 1 minute - 1.28 MBThe Health Minister has come in for criticism over not attending the planned official opening of the new Ballyshannon Community Hospital. The new state of the art facility will officially open its doors this Friday with Minister of State Mary Butler set to cut the ribbon. It has however brought into question why Minister Stephen Donnelly won't be in attendance. Donegal Independent TD Thomas Pringle says for a senior Minister not to turn up to such a significant event is a snub.
Stark figures reveal large number of cancellations at Sligo and Letterkenny hospitals
April 23, 2024 06:15 - 1 minute - 1.76 MBNew figures have revealed that there were a total of 8,690 hospital cancellations across Sligo and Letterkenny University Hospitals last year. The finger of blame is being pointed at the Government, with Sinn Fein claiming that it was shifting the problem from emergency departments to waiting lists. This is ultimately said to be leaving patients waiting longer for access to care. Donegal Sinn Fein TD Padraig MacLochlainn says the situation is very much at crisis point and the Government n...
Sligo Palestine Solidarity group hosting demonstration outside AXA offices
April 23, 2024 06:10 - 2 minutes - 1.92 MBThe Sligo Palestine Solidarity Campaign is set to hold another demonstration later today. It's getting underway outside the AXA offices at Hyde Bridge and centred around the company's alleged investments in Israeli companies that have been linked with the occupation of Palestinian territories. The peaceful protest begins at 1pm with members of the local community also encouraged to attend. Local People Before Profit Cllr Gino O'Boyle is hopeful for a good turn out:
Sligo Council sets aims high for land development plan
April 22, 2024 14:50 - 2 minutes - 2.3 MBConcerns were raised today in the Sligo County Council over the high levels of land being zoned for development in the near future. The draft for the Sligo County Development plan was completed today, with housing being a primary issue. The proposed plan will soon be handed over to the public for four weeks, to see if there are any objections or recommendations. Gerard Mullaney, Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, says he shares some of the concern, but believes it can be done.
Diabetes crisis continuing impact Donegal
April 22, 2024 11:31 - 2 minutes - 2.63 MBThe disregard of diabetes services at Letterkenny University Hospital continues to impact those affected by condition in the county. It now takes over three years to get a type one diabetes appointment at the facility. Earlier this month, the chair of the Donegal branch of Diabetes Ireland wrote to the Taoiseach in relation the current situation. In 2017, the then Health Minister Simon Harris promised a number of measures for the facility, however they have never been followed up...
Minister under pressure to reverse GRA conference decision
April 22, 2024 11:31 - 1 minute - 1.7 MBThere are further calls on the Justice Minister to reverse her decision to not attend this week's Garda Representative Association Conference. The association, representing rank-and-file members of the force, is holding its annual conference this week. However, Commissioner Drew Harris hasn't been invited, prompting Justice Minister Helen McEntee to turn down her invitation. Fianna Fáil candidate in the European Election and Donegal Senator Niall Blaney feels that instead of turn...
Shane Smyth appointed President of European Town Twinning Organisation
April 22, 2024 11:22 - 2 minutes - 1.86 MBA Donegal man has been appointed as the President of the Douzelage European Town Twinning organisation. Bundoran's Shane Smyth will be President of the organisation until 2027, and becomes the Douzelage's 6th President in doing so. Douzelage has a partner town in every country in the European Union and the United Kingdom. Speaking to Ocean FM News, Mr Smyth outlined his aims for the group during his term as President.
Text alert campaign to combat abuse of disabled parking
April 22, 2024 11:22 - 2 minutes - 1.91 MBThe finer details still need to be worked out on a proposed new national disabled drivers' text alert scheme, according to a local disability rights activist. The Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland has launched the proposal to allow disabled drivers to anonymously report other drivers who illegally park in disabled bays. It's after 88pc of disabled motorists reported a fear of violence when approaching those who park illegally. Vicky Matthew says it's something that happens ...
Serious concern over emerging wheelie bin trend in Donegal
April 22, 2024 09:47 - 1 minute - 1.72 MBSerious concern has been raised over an emerging wheelie bin trend in Donegal. Culprits are reportedly stealing bind from outside people's homes, attaching them onto a vehicle and driving away with it. The bin is later found along the side of the road with its contents strewn everywhere. Local Cllr Michael Cholm Mac Giolla Easbuig appealed to those behind the incidents to stop a he fears that someone will be seriously injured:
North West to be hit hardest with record fuel prices
April 22, 2024 09:47 - 1 minute - 1.49 MBThe Government is facing further backlash over record high fuel prices and impact it'll have on border filling stations. It's estimated that restoring the excise duty will add over 200 euro to the annual fuel cost for motorists. It's also led to major fears for filling stations along the border, with many simply unable to compete with their counterparts in the North Sinn Fein's Transport Spokesperson and Sligo Leitrim TD Martin Kenny says it will have knock on effect on other ser...
New campaign launches to remind dog owners of responsibilities
April 22, 2024 09:47 - 2 minutes - 2.3 MBThe Department of Rural and Community Development have today launched an awareness campaign to combat the ever-increasing number of attacks on people and livestock by dogs. The "It's Not Your Dog's Fault, It's Yours" campaign will focus on the responsibility of dog owners on the matter. Just last week, a farmer in north Sligo was left counting the cost following a vicious attack on his livestock. The department says while it acknowledges that the majority of dog owners are responsible and...
GRA stand by commissioner snub
April 22, 2024 09:04 - 21 seconds - 334 KBRank-and-file Gardaí say they'll continue to make their views known after the Justice Minister declined an invitation to their annual conference. Helen McEntee says she won't attend the Garda Representative Association conference, which starts this evening, after Garda Commissioner Drew Harris was refused an invite. Among the issues up for discussion are the increased admin workload and the use of internal disciplinary procedures. GRA President and Donegal-based Garda, Brendan O'Connor ha...
Calls for "lottery" for school bus tickets to end
April 22, 2024 07:36 - 1 minute - 1.21 MBAll school children should be entitled to a seat on a school bus. Labour's Nessa Cosgrove says this issue arises every year and wants an end to the idea of a 'lottery' for tickets. She says the current system discriminates against rural children as under current rules, some are either too far or too close from their school to avail of the scheme. Speaking to OceanFM News, the Labour Party representative believes a universal transport system, where all children that need a bus service are ...
Clarification sought over proposed Gambling Bill
April 22, 2024 07:20 - 2 minutes - 1.85 MBA candidate for the Midlands-North West constituency has raised concerns over potential impacts from the proposed Gambling Bill. The Bill aims to bring about regulations in different aspects, including gambling licenses, sponsorships, and advertisements. An amendment is being called to ensure the protection of GAA lotteries, radio bingo, charity fundraisers, and radio and tv phone-in competitions. Fianna Fáil TD and European Election candidate, Barry Cowen, said the Bill was well-intentio...
Backlog of almost two years for south Donegal driving tests
April 22, 2024 06:50 - 1 minute - 985 KBLearner drivers are now waiting up to 23 months to sit their driving test in south Donegal. There are some 3,500 people waiting for a test in the county. It was previously claimed that wo new instructors were due to be drafted into the county to alleviate the waiting list, but it's understood that the backlog has worsened. Donegal Aontu representative, Mary T Sweeney says in a time where transport is needed, areas such as south Donegal are being ignored once again:
Garda body-cam rollout welcomed locally
April 22, 2024 06:24 - 1 minute - 1.66 MBA Sligo Councillor has welcomed the news that body-worn cameras for Gardaí will be rolled out in certain areas this year. Dublin, Waterford and Limerick are included in the pilot scheme, ahead of a country-wide release to all Garda members, expected in early 2025. Fine Gael Cllr Thomas Walsh highlighted that the cameras will contribute to the safety of on-duty Gardaí, and the wider community. Cllr Walsh says it's important that Ireland catches up to its European counterparts in terms of p...
Calls for social housing extension to help those in north Leitrim
April 21, 2024 09:49 - 2 minutes - 2.02 MBThis month's meeting of the Manorhamilton Municipal District has heard calls for the extension for those who wish to avail of social housing in the county. Currently, only those who earn just over €30,000 qualify for social housing. Councillor Justin Warnock says while the current level has supported many families, he's calling for an extension to the present threshold immediately. The Fianna Fáil Councillor says it would provide certainty for many of those secure their first home.
Hopes overhanging tree in north Leitrim will be dealt with
April 21, 2024 09:42 - 53 seconds - 838 KBLocals in Lurganboy have raised fears regarding an overhanging tree at the water treatment plant. There are concerns that if not dealt with soon, a storm may result in serious damage being caused. Manorhamilton Municipal District Councillor Frank Dolan highlighted the situation at a local council meeting. Fine Gael Councillor Dolan confirmed that Uisce Eireann have been informed and hopes it will be resolved soon.
Donegal GAA podcast 20/04/2024 - Dismantling Derry
April 20, 2024 21:00 - 53 minutes - 48.9 MBSaturday evening in Celtic Park produced arguably Donegal's most memorable championship performance since beating the Dubs in the 2014 All-Ireland semi-final. Paddy McGill and guests examine the who, what, where, when and how.....
High insurance costs putting further pressure on businesses
April 20, 2024 10:01 - 2 minutes - 2.51 MBThe government's reform of the insurance sector has been criticised. The criticism comes after a number of insurance companies recorded increases in profits for 2023. It's understood that FBD recorded profits of 81 million euro, while Aviva made a profit of 72 million euro last year. Local Sinn Fein Councillor, Arthur Gibbons, says despite the high profits, businesses are still struggling to deal with high insurance costs.
Troublesome junction causing traffic chaos in north Leitrim
April 20, 2024 09:36 - 1 minute - 1.1 MBA traffic hazard on the N16 turn towards Lurganboy was raised at the latest Manorhamilton Municipal District meeting . The issue was flagged following concerns from the public, and the junction will now be assessed through a road traffic survey by the TII to weigh the need of a right turning lane. Independent Councillor Felim Gurn highlighted that proactive measures should take place before it's too late. Cllr Gurn used the island that is currently in place at The Shrine in Glencar...
Funding allocated for community centres in Sligo
April 20, 2024 09:21 - 1 minute - 1.43 MBSignificant funding has been allocated to construct two community centres in county Sligo. Just over €2.6 million has been allocated to Ballymote Community Centre while Kilglass Community Centre is in receipt of €1.6 million. The funding is part of a significant investment package of over €30 million nationwide under the Community Centres Investment Fund announced by Minister for Rural and Community Development Heather Humphreys. It will deliver 12 new community centres nationwid...
Attack on sheep in Sligo condemned
April 20, 2024 08:37 - 18 seconds - 292 KBA leading Donegal farming official says a recent dog attack on livestock in Sligo is just one of an ever-growing number throughout the country. Other incidents occurred in counties Roscommon and Tipperary in recent days. The Irish Farmers Association say the incidents part of a worrying trend which leads to devasting effects for significant losses to farmers. IFA Sheep Chairman Adrian Gallagher says dog owners need to prevent it from happening:
Leitrim local authority urged to extend waste water treatment
April 19, 2024 16:05 - 2 minutes - 2.47 MBThe local authority in Leitrim is being urged to explore avenues for extending waste water treatment plants in towns and villages in the north of the county. It's thought that the lack of such is holding up the development of new houses in the area. However, it has come to light recently that funding could be available to develop a wastewater treatment plant and sewerage system if the council decides to apply for it. Local Fine Gael Councillor Seán McDermott says it's something the counci...
Calls made for overhaul in children's healthcare
April 19, 2024 14:47 - 2 minutes - 1.88 MBSome Leitrim Councillors have called for an overhaul in the healthcare system as delays for children's resources looks set to continue. There have been calls for extra services in relation to Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language in Primary Care. Manorhamilton Fianna Fail Cllr Mary Bohan said this is a constant concern for parents that she speaks to. Cllr Bohan said there is too long a wait for appointments for children, preventing many of them from improving.
Manorhamilton candidate raises possibility of modular housing
April 19, 2024 13:20 - 2 minutes - 2.34 MBA Manorhamilton local election candidate has raised the possibility of using modular housing to help solve the housing crisis in Leitrim. The county, like the rest of the country, has an extensive waiting list in terms of social housing. Independent candidate, James Gilmartin, said that housing was the number one issue raised by locals when he spoke to them. Mr Gilmartin highlighted that modular homes could be both a short term and long term solution.
"It's great for the town" - locals react to Sligo IKEA store
April 19, 2024 11:30 - 1 minute - 956 KBShoppers in Sligo were also pleased to see a big brand coming to the town.
IKEA officially opens Plan and Order Point in Sligo
April 19, 2024 11:28 - 1 minute - 991 KBIKEA have officially opened their latest Plan and Order Point in Sligo today. It is IKEA's first ever store in the North West. It is also the retailers sixth Plan and Order Point in Ireland, with another three planned to open within the next year. Market Manager for IKEA Ireland, Garry Connolly, says that IKEA were happy to choose Sligo to house their latest Plan and Order Point.
Fishing issues in Killybegs highlighted to MEP candidate
April 19, 2024 11:00 - 2 minutes - 2.46 MBA recent visit to Killybegs by a European election candidate has highlighted the issues that the fishing industry faces in Ireland. The sector has faced worsening struggles in recent times as they compete with large trawlers while adhering to EU regulations. Ciaran Mullooly, who has entered the race in the Midlands-North West constituency, highlighted the frustration among locals, and said that policy has to be reconsidered at European level.
Hopes Ballyshannon Hospital will reach full capacity by end of 2024
April 19, 2024 01:00 - 4 minutes - 3.79 MBIt's emerged that the new multimillion euro Ballyshannon Community Hospital is not taking on short term patients. The facility officially opened its doors earlier this year after intense negotiations between the INMO and the HSE over concerns around planned staffing levels. While long term patients are currently being cared for on site, it's reported that several beds are lying vacant. The HSE says that efforts are underway to enable the hospital reach its full capacity and that ...
Sligo Leitrim TD stands by decision in supporting Simon Harris as Taoiseach
April 19, 2024 01:00 - 3 minutes - 2.98 MBA Sligo Leitrim TD is standing by his decision in supporting Simon Harris to be Taoiseach. Many, including former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, believe that a General Election should have been called sooner rather than later. Independent Deputy Marc MacSharry believes that Simon Harris has been a huge supporter of improving third level education in Sligo. He has reiterated that now is not the time for an election:
Further fears for future of border filling stations
April 19, 2024 01:00 - 1 minute - 1.7 MBThere's further fears for border filling stations as the price of petrol and diesel is expected to rise to 2-euro a litre in the coming months. Diesel is up 13c a litre to 1-euro-78, and petrol is up 9 cent to 1-euro-81 a litre, according to latest figures from AA Ireland. The Government increased excise on fuel at the start of the month, after rates were cut two years ago. Donegal Sinn Fein TD Pearse Doherty says many will be under threat of closure unless the Government rows back on its...
Castlerea to become Ireland’s capital of circus this weekend
April 19, 2024 01:00 - 23 seconds - 373 KBA town in Roscommon is set to become Ireland’s capital of circus this Saturday. Castlerea will host celebrations for all the family to mark World Circus Day. The event is part of a wider collaborative project which aims to encourage more outdoor arts performances in public spaces. Rhona McGrath, Arts Councillor with Roscommon County Council, explains what people can expect on the day:
The Final Whistle podcast 18/04/2024
April 18, 2024 17:00 - 1 hour - 55.8 MBAs Red Óg Murphy's second anniversary passes, his parents want to keep the the conversation about mental health going. We’ll hear about a special event they’re organising next month in Sligo town. And as the first heavyweight clash in this year’s football championship takes us to Celtic Park, Paddy McGill will chew on the weekend possibilities with a Derry man and a Donegal man on the Donegal GAA podcast.
Donegal branch of Diabetes Ireland write to Taoiseach for urgent supports
April 18, 2024 12:57 - 1 minute - 1.69 MBThe plight of the Donegal branch of Diabetes Ireland has been heard on the floor of the Dail. Chair of the branch, Paul Gillespie, has written to the Taoiseach, detailing how badly the department is struggling in Letterkenny University Hospital. The matter was raised by Donegal Sinn Fein TD, Padraig MacLochlainn, who claimed that Simon Harris made guarantees to the department when he was Minister for Health, but these promises were never followed up. Deputy MacLochlainn called for an urge...
MEPS need to be pro-farming - Blaney
April 18, 2024 12:38 - 2 minutes - 2.73 MBA Donegal Senator believes that there must be strong representation for farmers at European Level. Fianna Fail Senator Niall Blaney, who's running as a candidate for the Midlands North West Constituency in the upcoming European elections, has called out Independent Candidates to outline their position as it relates to the nitrates derogation. The main aims are to protect water quality from agricultural pollution and promote the use of good farming practices. Senator Blaney feels ...