Clare FM’s Summer Tour – Ennistymon

Thursday's Morning Focus broadcasted live from the Ennistymon Digital Hub in the heart of North Clare, as part of Clare FM’s Summer Tour. Eoin Troy, Senior Executive Officer and North Clare MD Coordinator spoke about the latest infrastructure developments and community plans across the district. Derrick Lynch was joined by Councillor Pat Hayes to discuss the future of the Western Rail Corridor, defending its importance as a key piece of transport infrastructure while highlighting Iarnród Éireann’s ambitions for rail expansion and innovation. Local artist and gallery owner, Sara Foust gave a colourful preview of her upcoming “Ask the Artist” event and shared stories from her life in the creative world. Rising music star Séamus Harty joined Derrick ahead of his final Irish tour stop at Pot Duggans, reflecting on his recent single The Butterfly House and his journey so far. PJ Carmody, Senior Executive Technician, West Clare Municipal District, Clare County Council and Dr. Eamon Doyle of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark shared updates on recent fossil finds, youth science initiatives Ennistymon street cleaning, and upcoming cultural collaborations, including Daithí Ó Drónaí’s Common Threads project. Ennistymon-based actress Jacinta Sheerin and Furglan NS Principal Patricia Vaughan discussed the filming of the award-winning short film The Parting at the local school. Spella Zupanihle of Lisdoonvarna Fáilte highlighted an urgent community effort to raise funds for vital repairs to the town’s only playground, while Niall O'Keeffe, Chair of Hurling Club and Councillor Shane Talty reflected on the local pride surrounding Ennistymon GAA. Martin O’Sullivan, Captain of Lahinch Golf Club, celebrated the success of the 2025 Palmer Cup and spoke about preparations for the Walker Cup and the potential hosting of the Irish Open in 2026. Later in the show, Derrick met local business owners including Ray Foudy of Foodies Korner and Michelle McManus from The Falls Hotel, who each shared their stories of entrepreneurship in Ennistymon. Pat Flynn brought us another episode of Clare Women in Business, meeting Ballyvaughan’s Katie Naughton, who runs two thriving ventures on the coast. To finish out the show, Brendan Keane from the Ennistymon Choral Society spoke about the group’s work and introduced a musical piece.