Ocean FM News Reports

Families in Sligo struggling with skyrocketing rents & inaccessible mortgages

March 25, 2024 00:05 - 2 minutes - 1.89 MB

Families in Sligo are said to be struggling with skyrocketing rents, inaccessible mortgages, and inadequate social housing. That's according to Labour's Sligo representative Nessa Cosgrove who says she has heard first-hand the challenges that the community are currently facing. Ms. Cosgrove believes that poverty is a real concern, primarily for those families who endure it on a daily basis. After attending a weekend Labour conference, Ms Cosgrove says while there are some strides...

Renewed optimism in Fine Gael - Walsh

March 25, 2024 00:05 - 2 minutes - 1.99 MB

There's a sense of renewed optimism among Fine Gael members. That's according to local Cllr Thomas Walsh, who attended the party's conference yesterday. Simon Harris was elected as leader of the party yesterday. The Higher Education Minister ran unopposed, which meant he was installed as Leo Varadkar's replacement. Cllr Walsh feels that a number of changes need to be made going forward:

Sligo 'snubbed' again over stalling of bus routes

March 25, 2024 00:05 - 1 minute - 1.54 MB

Sligo appears to have been snubbed again by the NTA regarding the establishment of bus routes in the town. An urgent meeting was sought with the transport body to open the S3 route from Sligo to Maugheraboy, and to enhance the existing S1 route. It was thought that the S3 route would be in operation by January of this year, but there has been no response from the NTA at all. Local Fianna Fáil councillor, Tom MacSharry, says there is anger among the council as it seems their requests have ...

'The agony & the ecstasy' - The last 90 seconds of Sunday's Limerick v Leitrim LGFA Div 4 semi-final

March 24, 2024 19:05 - 3 minutes - 2.8 MB

Listen back to the heartstopping closing moments of Sunday's Lidl NFL Division 4 league semi-final between Leitrim and Limerick in Woodmount, Co Roscommon. With time almost up, Limerick were on the verge of victory, leading by 1-10 to 0-11. Ocean FM Sport's Ray Lannon & Maeve Quinn describe what happened next....

The Rovers Review 24/03/2024

March 24, 2024 19:00 - 29 minutes - 23.5 MB

Sligo Rovers women's boss Tommy Hewitt sees signs of encouragement in Saturday night's 2-0 home defeat to holders Galway Utd in the All-Island Cup. Plus - Conor O'Grady gives us an insight into the seven-days-a-week job that is the Sligo Rovers Academy.

Donegal GAA podcast 23/03/2024 - League unbeaten

March 23, 2024 21:05 - 39 minutes - 36.2 MB

Donegal completed their regulation league schedule in Division 2 on Saturday night with a 1-18 to 1-10 win over Meath in Ballybofey. The only worries on the night - injuries to the Kilcar duo of team captain Paddy McBrearty & Ryan McHugh. Paddy McGill digests all of that in the company of Seosamh McKelvey and Brian McCabe. There are contributions too from Donegal manager Jim McGuinness, County Chairperson Mary Coughlan and Donegal GAA PRO Sinead Breen.

Funding announced for North West agricultural shows

March 22, 2024 15:05 - 1 minute - 1.58 MB

It was announced today that an investment of one million euro will be provided for agricultural shows in 2024. As part of the initiative, each show will receive a grant of between €6,000-€11,000 depending on their size. This leads to a total of €59,150 to be invested in Donegal, €25,050 in Leitrim, and €30,930 in Sligo. Sligo Chair of the IFA, Michael O'Dowd, has welcomed the new funding from the government. He says it's not just important for the agricultural show, but for the community ...

GRA ask for clarity from Commissioner over bike loan comments

March 22, 2024 13:05 - 21 seconds - 336 KB

The GRA is calling for clarity from the Garda Commissioner over what it has described as "inappropriate comments" surrounding an officer who loaned a farmer an unclaimed bicycle during the pandemic. The Garda has been cleared of any wrongdoing after a four year investigation. Yesterday, Drew Harris told TDs and Senators at the Public Accounts Committee that the public didn't know the full story. President of the Garda Representative Association, Brendan O'Connor, says the Commissioner nee...

Disappointment in Sligo over new Garda recruit allocation

March 22, 2024 13:05 - 1 minute - 1.55 MB

There's major disappointment in Sligo following news that just twelve new Garda recruits are to be stationed in the entire North West region. It's the lowest allocation nationwide. A total of 165 Gardaí were attested as sworn members of An Garda Síochána earlier today. They were recruited as part of the 2022 recruitment campaign. Local Independent Cllr Michael Clarke says with a rise in various types of crime in the county, the allocation is totally unacceptable:

ESRI report on immigration described as "unsurprising"

March 22, 2024 10:51 - 1 minute - 1.57 MB

People here generally support immigration - according to new ESRI research. The study finds some attitudes became less positive in the last six months of 2023 - including in November when the Dublin riots occurred. It also shows people are more supportive of helping Ukrainian refugees than asylum seekers, and responses to immigration are likely influenced by their own economic situations. Independent Donegal TD, Thomas Pringle, says the results of the report are hardly a surprise.

OPW under pressure to provide security measures at Carrowkeel tombs

March 22, 2024 10:51 - 2 minutes - 1.97 MB

The OPW is facing increasing pressure to provide security measures at the Carrowkeel tombs in Sligo. The tombs have suffered countless acts of vandalism over the years and while they are crash barriers currently in place at the entrance, it's been claimed that some visitors are removing them. Local Fianna Fail Cllr Donal Gilroy believes that more deterrents need to be added to the ancient site. He says plans are being developed for the site, they must include protective measures...

McGloin outlines predictions as Harris under pressure to reshuffle Cabinet table

March 22, 2024 10:19 - 6 minutes - 6.37 MB

There could be a few new faces at the Cabinet table in the wake of Taoiseach Leo Varadkars imminent departure. The Higher Education Minister confirmed his intention to run to be the next leader of the party last night and has already been endorsed by the majority of the parliamentary party - meaning he will likely be the sole candidate and the next Taoiseach. But he is being urged to reshuffle and promote fresh blood - a move that could spell the end of Simon Coveney's ministerial ca...

Regeneration plan for Creeslough officially launched

March 22, 2024 10:19 - 2 minutes - 2.6 MB

A regeneration plan for the village of Creeslough has officially been launched. The aim of the project is to provide a number of new facilities to the area. The plan will centre around a new community hub, where counselling services will be made available to those still dealing with the aftermath of the tragedy in September 2022. There will also be a range of new sporting facilities included provided for the village. Parish priest, Fr John Joe Duffy, has been outlining what these plans w...

Urgent repairs needed at St. Aidan's National School

March 22, 2024 09:22 - 2 minutes - 1.85 MB

There are hopes that a number of issues will be tackled at St. Aidan's National School in Ballaghameehan sooner rather than later. The school building and playground are said to be in a state of disrepair while emergency funding for external doors and windows was previously rejected. Local Independent Councillor, Felim Gurn, is calling for the issues to be addressed. He says the current situation at the school has left pupils in danger.

100% Redress Party announce endorsement of "The People's Document"

March 22, 2024 08:51 - 38 seconds - 600 KB

The 100% Redress Party has officially endorsed "The People's Document". The document details what exactly is required by those affected by defective concrete blocks in their homes to receive full redress. The initiative was launched at the beginning of this month. A public endorsement event will be taking place in The Inishowen Gateway hotel, Buncrana, to officially launch the document on Tuesday, March 26th. 100% Redress Party Representative, Ali Farren, says nobody will get full redres...

"Mini-budget" may be required to save tourism sector

March 22, 2024 08:14 - 2 minutes - 2.26 MB

There are fears that it may be too little too late for many struggling tourism businesses in the North West, even if the Government steps in at the eleventh hour. It comes as a report from the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation found that thousands of jobs could be lost in the sector because of an increase in costs. Treasurer of the Donegal Vintners Association and Cathaoirleach of Donegal County Council and Fine Gael Cllr Martin Harley says while he agrees that there should be a return ...

The Final Whistle podcast 21/03/2024

March 21, 2024 21:00 - 46 minutes - 37.2 MB

It's Ireland’s Call for Sligo’s Nicole Fowley – the Drumcliffe native starts at outhalf in Saturday’s opening Six Nations match against the French – her first Six nations game for five years. Could Leitrim gaelic football secure a promotion double this weekend? The women will go up to Division 3 if they beat Limerick in their league semi-final on Sunday. The men will do likewise if they beat Tipp in Carrick – AND if Wexford do them a favour against Longford. Martin McGowan joins with his ab...

Donegal TD says the public should decide next Taoiseach

March 21, 2024 16:40 - 1 minute - 1.69 MB

Fine Gael continue to face calls for a general election in light of the Taoiseach's resignation. Leo Varadkar's shock announcement yesterday has left his party looking to elect a new leader. However Donegal TD Pearse Doherty feels now is the time for an election. Deputy Doherty says that it should be up to the public to vote for their next Taoiseach, rather than having it decided for them.

Sligo Restaurateur not surprised by Irish Tourism Industry Confederation report

March 21, 2024 15:12 - 1 minute - 1.29 MB

A Sligo Restaurateur says he's not surprised by today's shocking report from the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation. It's warning that recent enforced changes to payroll will cost tourism businesses 450 million euro this year. The group is also calling for the Government to reduce the VAT rate to 9 per cent in an effort to offset the rise in minimum wage and other employee benefits. Local businessman Anthony Gray agrees:

Deputy Martin Kenny calls for road safety improvement

March 21, 2024 15:12 - 1 minute - 1 MB

Questions have been asked in the Dáil regarding road safety and the use of GoSafe cameras on Irish roads. It comes after almost 1,800 people were caught speeding over the St Patrick's weekend. Sinn Féin's transport spokesperson, Martin Kenny, feels that the most dangerous areas on roads are not being policed correctly. Deputy Kenny also highlighted a number of blackspots on Irish roads where serious crashes have repeatedly happened in the last decade.

Manorhamilton candidate recalls Taoiseach's farmer funding

March 21, 2024 15:08 - 1 minute - 1.33 MB

Simon Harris is almost certain to be the next Fine Gael leader and Taoiseach. He's expected to announce his candidacy after all his potential competitors announced they weren't running. And amid calls for a general election, some have taken the opportunity to praise outgoing Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for his time in office. Manorhamilton Local Election Candidate for Fine Gael, Kevin Comiskey, highlighted the commitment and effort the former leader gave in his role. The former chair ...

GP struggles for pregnant woman in Sligo-Donegal area

March 21, 2024 11:05 - 2 minutes - 2.09 MB

Current General Practitioner capacity issues led to a local pregnant woman unable to access healthcare services. The woman contacted five GP services across South Donegal and Sligo, but none of them were able to accept her. Donegal TD Pearse Doherty raised the issue and highlighted the urgent need for the GP shortage to be addressed. The woman eventually found a GP, but only after she went public with her difficulties.

'Alarming rise' in knife crime in Sligo

March 21, 2024 11:05 - 1 minute - 1.3 MB

Serious concern has been raised over what's been described as an alarming rise in knife crime in Sligo. It follows last night's alleged assault in the Ballinode area - it's believed that at least one man was stabbed. He was taken to Sligo University Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. It's said to be the latest in the string of similar incidents in the town recently. Local People before Profit Cllr Gino O'Boyle has reiterated his call for more Garda resources for Sli...

Government should make way for people to decide next Taoiseach - MacLochlainn

March 21, 2024 11:05 - 1 minute - 1.72 MB

The current Government need to make way for the people to decide who should lead the country. That's according to Donegal Sinn Fein TD Padraig MacLochlainn, who has described Fianna Fail and the Green Party backing Fine Gaels moves to appoint a new Taoiseach as a spectacle. Support meanwhile for Simon Harris as the next leader of Fine Gael is growing. But Deputy MacLochlainn says it's outrageous, and that it's time for change:

'Bouncing' into an election for the sake of it isn't a good thing - McHugh

March 21, 2024 09:45 - 3 minutes - 3.15 MB

A Fine Gael TD thinks 'bouncing' into a General Election for the sake of it isn't a good thing. Former Education Minister Joe McHugh made the comments in the wake of the shock resignation of Taoiseach Leo Varadkar yesterday. The race for the next leader of Fine Gael has officially started. Numerous politicians have come out in support of Simon Harris, while Helen McEntee has ruled herself out. In some political circles though, its felt that there should be an election. Deputy McHugh who...

Sligo-Leitrim TD calls for a general election

March 21, 2024 09:45 - 1 minute - 1.74 MB

There are further calls being made from TDs that it is time to call for a general election. The unrest comes after Taoiseach Leo Varadkar's announcement yesterday that he will be stepping down from his political role. Deputy Marian Harkin offered her respect to the outgoing leader for his service, but insisted that this government has run its course. The Sligo-Leitrim TD says that its about what is best for the country.

Government asked to "do what's right" regarding defective block crisis

March 21, 2024 08:52 - 20 seconds - 320 KB

The government is being urged to take the European Parliament's recommendations on board when it comes to dealing with defective blocks. This week, MEPs published a report calling on the State to improve the Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme and provide 100 per cent redress for those affected by the Mica scandal. Campaigners say the current offering of renumeration up to 420 thousand euro is inadequate and needs to go. Mica activist Paddy Diver hopes the external pressure wi...

Hopes of funding being made available for new Rathcormac sewerage system

March 21, 2024 07:46 - 2 minutes - 2.32 MB

The local authority in Sligo is being urged to explore avenues for funding to build a wastewater treatment plant in Rathcormac. 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 that funding could be available to develop a wastewater treatment plant and sewerage system if the council decides to apply for it. Local Independent Councillor, Marie Casserly, says its something the council should consider.

Bus route needed to link Ballymote and Tubbercurry

March 21, 2024 07:40 - 2 minutes - 2.33 MB

Sligo County Council are being urged to write to Transport for Ireland to establish a bus route from Ballymote to Tubbercurry. Currently, there is no link between the two towns, both of which are two of the most populated areas outside of Sligo Town. Local Fine Gael Councillor, Dara Mulvey, has urged the public to reach out to the TFI to highlight the demand for the service. Councillor Mulvey also says that the service would benefit other areas, not just Ballymote and Tubbercurry.

"To me, there's nothing but positives out of that" - Leitrim U20 boss Andy Moran on Connacht Chp loss to Galway

March 20, 2024 21:00 - 6 minutes - 5.81 MB

Leitrim manager Andy Moran was encouraged by what his side produced in Wednesday night's 2-16 to 0-13 loss to Galway in their opening group match of this year's Connacht U20 football championship. He spoke to Ocean FM Sport's John Lynch after the game in Ballinasloe.

Kilcar GAA Club at 100

March 20, 2024 16:39 - 39 minutes - 31.6 MB

Kilcar GAA Club in Donegal officially launched its Centenary celebrations with a special night of chat and nostalgia at the Áislann on March 15th. Ocean FM Sport's Austin O'Callaghan was part of a full house for this special event.

Ocean Drive: Onóir

March 20, 2024 14:39 - 26 minutes - 24.1 MB

Listen back as Onóir join Seamie Mac on Ocean Drive.

Financial compensation not enough for mica affected homes

March 20, 2024 13:40 - 22 seconds - 357 KB

The European Parliament's report on the defective blocks crisis has recommended that the Government insure a 100 per cent redress for those affected. Currently the scheme from the Government covers remediation work up to a maximum of 420 thousand euro. The new report calls for redress of the financial burden of all the costs, including new foundations, provisional accommodation and rental costs. Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh says they want to go even further than financial compensation:

Deputy Pringle reacts to Taoiseach's "surprise" announcement

March 20, 2024 13:02 - 1 minute - 1.42 MB

News of Leo Varadkar's resignation has been met with some surprise by an Independent Donegal TD Thomas Pringle Deputy Pringle has long been critical of Leo Varadkar and the current government and feels the announcement was a sort of "damp spuib” and is merely a tactic by the Fine Gael party. Speaking to Ocean FM News, he says he believes a general election is the only answer following today's announcement:

"Its a complete surprise" - Reaction to Vardakar's resignation

March 20, 2024 12:57 - 2 minutes - 2.45 MB

Leo Varadkar's decision to step down has been described as a complete surprise. His party colleague, and Sligo Leitrim TD, Frank Feighan, has been reacting to the Taoiseach's announcement with Ocean FM News this afternoon.

Leo Varadkar resigns as Taoiseach and Fine Gael party leader

March 20, 2024 12:56 - 2 minutes - 1.95 MB

Leo Varadkar has confirmed that he is to step down as Taoiseach and leader of the Fine Gael party. He assumed the office of Taoiseach in June of 2017. He has been a Fine Gael TD for the Dublin West constituency since 2007. Mr Varadkar was confirmed as Taoiseach for the second time in December 2022 following a special sitting of the Dáil. He previously held the role from June 2017 to June 2020 before handing the reigns over to Micheál Martin as part of the coalition. Leo Varadkar confirm...

"I thought the sods would be turned on a site this year" - Cllr Gurn

March 20, 2024 10:30 - 1 minute - 1.71 MB

Those sentiments were echoed by Independent Councillor, Felim Gurn, who was also disappointed with the setback.

Dismay as homes for people with additional needs won't be provided in Manorhamilton

March 20, 2024 10:27 - 2 minutes - 2.33 MB

It's emerged that brand new residential homes for those in vulnerable positions will now not be going ahead. The state of the art homes delivered by Newgrove Housing Association were to provide round the clock support in Manorhamilton. Local Sinn Féin Councillor Padraig Fallon has previously been a strong advocate of the homes being provided. He says he's hopeful a solution can be found sooner rather than later.

GRA to vote on final roster proposals

March 20, 2024 10:15 - 19 seconds - 309 KB

An end to the long running row over Garda rosters is in sight. Members of the Garda Representative Association will now vote on proposals agreed by its national executive. President of the GRA, Donegal's Brendan O'Connor, says the rosters are similar to the ones being operated on an interim basis at the moment.

Supertrawlers continue to impact Donegal

March 20, 2024 10:02 - 2 minutes - 1.95 MB

Fishermen across the north west have outlined their disgust with a Dutch supertrawler currently fishing off the Donegal coast. The vessel, operated by Dutch corporation PVP has the ability to catch and freeze as much as 250 tonnes of fish per day. Donegal Deputy Pádraig MacLochlainn has reiterated his call for super trawlers to be banned from fishing in Irish and EU waters. Sinn Féin's Fisheries and Marine spokesperson says the industry is in serious trouble:

Limits on Mother and Baby Homes redress scheme criticised by campaigners

March 20, 2024 09:47 - 2 minutes - 2.5 MB

A redress scheme for survivors of mother and baby homes opens for applications today. The Mother and Baby Institutions Payment Scheme will provide financial and health supports to those who spent at least six months in a home. The limit to those who can apply for the supports has been criticised by campaigners, who are calling for the scheme to be expanded. People Before Profit Councillor, Gino O'Boyle, says that while the redress scheme is welcome, more still needs to be done to support ...

Protest to take place outside Dáil against EU militarisation

March 20, 2024 08:18 - 22 seconds - 346 KB

There are claims 'EU Militarisation' will have serious implications for Ireland. A Dáil protest will take place today against any move towards a European Army. The EU has set out proposals for a European Defence Industrial Strategy. Independent Donegal TD Thomas Pringle believes there has been an intensification in efforts to militarise the block.

Local businesses to benefit from grant increases

March 20, 2024 07:16 - 1 minute - 1.63 MB

As part of Budget 2024, the Government has agreed a package of €257 million for the Increased Cost of Business grant. The funding is targeted towards small or medium-sized businesses to help counter the rising costs that they're facing. The potential grant amount will depend on the value of the Commerical Rate bill received by the business for 2023. Fine Gael Councillor, Thomas Walsh, has welcomed the news, encouraging local businesses to apply for the package online.

Vacant homes issue in North Leitrim must be addressed

March 20, 2024 07:10 - 2 minutes - 1.84 MB

The issue of vacant properties and unfinished housing estates continues to impact the north Leitrim area. It's estimated that there are hundreds of vacant homes and properties despite many still looking for a place to call home. Local Labour Party election candidate Bernie Linnane says there a number of houses in the area lying idle for 20 years. She feels that it's time for answers and steps must be taken to ensure much-needed social housing.

Progress imminent for Manorhamilton fire station

March 19, 2024 16:11 - 1 minute - 1000 KB

Progress has been made on a new fire station in Manorhamilton. Currently, the station is said to be not fit for purpose and it’s thought with development and an increase in population there is never been a greater for upgrades to be made. Councillor Frank Dolan says while money is not an obstacle, the issue has been rumbling on for a number of years. Speaking to Ocean FM News, Councillor Dolan the new facility will be of much value to the local area.

Sligo band joined by Sophie Ellis-Bextor onstage

March 19, 2024 15:15 - 2 minutes - 2.13 MB

Sligo band Bluemoose had a surprise appearance from Sophie Ellis-Bextor at their St. Patrick's day gig in a Zurich bar. The band were performing Ellis-Bextor's hit song Murder On The Dancefloor, when the singer made herself known and asked to join them on-stage. Tony Ward, a member of the band, said that his concerns were eased the moment he heard her sing.

Minister McConalogue announces 40% funding increase for UN World Food Programme

March 19, 2024 14:35 - 1 minute - 1.54 MB

The Minister for Agriculture has confirmed a 40% increase in Ireland's funding to the World Food Programme. The announcement comes after Charlie McConalogue visited the Horn of Africa in South Sudan as part of the St Patrick's Day expeditions. The World Food Programme is run by the UN and is directed by Mountcharles native, Mary Ellen McGroarty. The increases announced by Minister McConalogue will see 35m euro donated to the programme every year for the next three years, and Ireland will ...

Over €8 million to Sligo landlords in 2023

March 19, 2024 12:37 - 2 minutes - 2.25 MB

Sligo County Council paid out a total of 8.4 million euros to landlords over the year of 2023. The payment was received through the Housing Assistance Programme, the Rental Accommodation Scheme, and the Long Term Social Housing Leasing Scheme. Sligo Councillor Declan Bree revealed the report and criticised the government's actions of putting millions “into private landlords pockets”, while causing young people and those on lower incomes to "suffer the most".

Tributes paid to late Joe Coulter

March 19, 2024 10:42 - 1 minute - 1.58 MB

Tributes are being paid to the late Joe Coulter. Mr Coulter passed away on Saturday in the care of the North West Hospice surrounded by his loving family. The former Sligo IFA chairman was a highly respected figure and was also a valued member of Sligo RFC, his local church and community in Skreen. Current chairperson of the Sligo branch of the IFA, Michael O’Dowd says Joe’s says passing has left a profound sadness in the wider Sligo area.

Donegal Town being let down by courthouse "eyesore"

March 19, 2024 08:49 - 1 minute - 1.49 MB

The courthouse in Donegal Town has been branded an eyesore. The side of the building in particular is said to have fallen into a state of disrepair which in turn is resulting in a blight on the landscape, with Donegal Castle situated close by. Donegal County Council is to write to the courts service outlining the local concerns. Independent Councillor, Niamh Kennedy, says the OPW must take immediate action as it's letting the town down.

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