Today we kick off the weekend with The Friday Panel tackling international state visit costs, centralizing health spending, rising fuel prices, and artificial intelligence, alongside 9/11 anniversary reflections, Irish Music Month showcases, and local entertainment events.
Inside Today’s Episode:
💬 The Friday Panel: Author and journalist Kathy Donaghey, Seamus McDaid (Head of Football Special), and Cian O’Hagan (Ógra Sinn Féin Donegal) join Greg for an extensive first-hour debate on the week’s biggest headlines:
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State Visit Costs: The panel debates whether Irish taxpayers should bear the financial burden and security costs associated with an official visit from US President Donald Trump.
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Centralized HSE Spending: Following announcements from Minister Jack Chambers, the guests weigh in on decision-making powers being centralized away from regional HSE boards and what it means for local healthcare services.
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Fuel Prices & Cost of Living: The panel examines whether €2 per litre for petrol and diesel is becoming the permanent new baseline, discussing the economic ripple effects on commuters and hauliers across the North West.
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The Rise of AI: The guests debate the societal and economic threats posed by artificial intelligence, from workforce disruption to digital safety and ethical regulation.
🎙️ The Greg Hughes Podcast Preview: We preview the latest full episode of The Greg Hughes Podcast, out today, featuring acclaimed actor Niall Mac Eachmharcaigh. Niall drops in to talk about his life on stage and screen, from his Gaeltacht roots in Rann na Feirste to iconic roles across Irish drama.
🎵 Irish Music Month Local Hero Finalists: As part of Irish Music Month, Greg unveils the final four local artists shortlisted for the Highland Radio Local Hero competition, highlighting the exceptional talent across Donegal’s music scene and explaining how listeners can support them.
🕊️ Reflections on 9/11: Former NYPD officer and Donegal native Paul McCormack joins the show to share personal memories and reflections. Paul looks back on his time in service during the September 11 attacks, discussing the lasting impact on first responders and how the tragedy is remembered today.
🎱 Big Highland Bingo Party Night Launch: Corrine drops into the studio to announce the official launch of the Big Highland Bingo Party Night, giving listeners all the details on what to expect for the upcoming event in November and how to secure tickets.
🎧 Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news:
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