Ocean FM News Reports

Austin O'Callaghan, Robbie Fitzpatrick, Kevin Flanagan digest Monday's Round 3 matches and quarter-finals, which saw Sligo hopes of a local winner dashed - but the final four is a strong one with Cian Harkin, Collie Campbell, Mark Cadden and Alex Kerins now dreaming of West of Ireland glory on Tuesday.

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16 golfers are still standing after Sunday's two rounds of matchplay golf at the Connolly Motor Group West of Ireland Championship.

Austin O'Callaghan, Kevin Flanagan, Robbie Fitzpatrick and Shane Flanagan convene in the Co Sligo Golf Clubhouse to review the day's events - with just in the nick-of-time contribution from Tournament Director Enda Lonergan too.

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Ocean FM Sport's Day 2 podcast from Saturday's curtailed play at the Connolly Motor Group West of Ireland Golf Championship.

Play was abandoned midway through round two of qualifying strokeplay because of the weather.

Austin O'Callaghan takes you through the day's events, in the company of Tournament Director Enda Lonergan, Robbie Fitzpatrick, Kevin Flanagan and Mark McGowan (Irish Golfer Magazine).

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Austin O'Callaghan sets the scene for the 2026 Connolly Motor Group West of Ireland Championship, which begins on Friday at Co Sligo Golf Club.

He's joined by Kein Flanagan, Mark McGowan (Irish Golfer Magaziine) and Robbie Fitzpatrick.

There are also contributions from defending champion Dylan Holmes, Tournament Director Enda Lonergan and local players Aodhagan Brady and TJ Forde.

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Donegal are top of Division 1 with three wins from three following Sunday's 1-19 to 0-14 victory over Mayo in Letterkenny.

Paddy McGill gathers reflections on the match from Martin McHugh, Gary McDaid, Jim McGuinness, Colm McFadden, Barry Moran and Alan Foley. 

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The new Family Resource Centre in Drumkeerin will be allocated an annual funding allocation of 180,000 euro towards its running costs.

The news was confirmed earlier this morning by Sligo Deputy Eamon Scanlon.

The Family Resource will be located in the former Garda Station in the village.

Speaking to Ocean FM news Deputy Scanlon says the funding will help the Centre provide funding.

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A Sligo/ Leitrim TD and Junior Minister says overseas visits as part of St Patrick's Day events are far from junkets for Government representatives.

Minister of State Frank Feighan was responding to the news that no fewer than 50 cities around the world would be afforded visits from government officials during the St Patrick's Day celebrations.

His constituency colleague, Junior Minister Marian Harkin, will visit France and Monaco.

While Donegal based Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue will travel to Thailand and Vietnam.

Minister Feighan will travel to Singapore and the Philippines.  He says these trade missions involve difficult and important work:

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A leading member of the Green Party in the North West says the appointment of Dublin City Councillor, Hazel Chu, as deputy party leader is ‘a positive appointment’.

Dr Bláithín Gallagher speaking in a personal capacity Says the Dublin councillor received massive support from across the Country and she will help to drive the party onwards as they continue the rebuilding process following the 2024 general election where they lost all bar one of their Dáil seats.

Concern has been expressed by some grassroots members that the leadership of the party is too Dublin centred and lacks rural representation.

The Chairperson of the North West Greens says no rurally based candidate declared an in interest in contesting the contest.

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Work-integrated learning remains a cornerstone of Ireland's tertiary education system, supporting both apprenticeships and traineeships.

Apprenticeships provide structured, hands-on routes into employment, while traineeships offer more flexible, shorter-term options.

Budget 2026 includes €79 million for apprenticeships, bringing total funding to over €410 million and expanding programmes nationwide.

Speaking in the Dáil, Minister Marian Harkin wants the Government to remain fully committed to investing in apprentices and trainees in the North West.

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A Donegal Senator is calling for one of four new government helicopters to be based in Finner Camp.

Senator Michael Boyle says a local air ambulance could cut response times across the county and save lives.

He highlighted Donegal’s size and rural challenges, urging the government to treat the county as a special case.

The Senator also praised the Defence Forces and Coast Guard for past lifesaving patient transfers across Donegal.

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Drivers in the North West have been asked to reduce speed on this bank holiday Monday.

Many commuters across the counties of Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal are expected to take to the roads as the February Bank Holiday begins to wind down.

Gardai will continue to carry out an enhanced Road Safety and Traffic Enforcement campaign until 7 a.m. tomorrow morning.

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Austin O'Callaghan, Gavin Dykes and Jessica Farry look ahead to Sligo Rovers prospects for the new League of Ireland season.

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Reflections on Donegal's 1-22 to 1-18 Division 1 win over a David Clifford-less Kerry in Ballyshannon on Sunday.

Host Paddy McGill hears contributions from Martin McHugh, Jimi McGuinness, Peter Campbell, Sylvester Maguire and Colm Keys (Irish Indo).

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Donegal Senator calls for financial packages for fishing industry

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Local hotel to possibly reopen this year following council application

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Donegal TD addresses lack of infrastructure on Donegal road

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Bundoran RNLI urges public to check the weather before swimming in sea

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Gardaí are warning road users across the North West to drive safe over the bank holiday weekend.

A higher volume of traffic than usual is expected on roads across the region over the weekend.

The main risk factors are drink and drug driving, as well as distracted driving and speeding.

Inspector Sean McDaid, who has responsibility for roads policing in Donegal, is urging people to slow down this weekend.

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A new ESRI report has highlighted significant economic and social inequalities between the north and south of Ireland.

Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan says people in the north have around 10 per cent less disposable income and shorter life expectancy than those in the south.

She described the findings as deeply concerning for border communities, calling it a “postcode lottery” that affects income and even how long people live.

Speaking to Ocean Fm News Jemma says the report strengthens the case for greater fiscal powers and expanded all-island cooperation, particularly in health and public services.

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The Sligo Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards have officially launched for 2025.

Winners across five categories will be revealed at the annual Sligo Chamber Gala Dinner on Friday, March 6th, at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Co. Sligo.

Reporter Dervla Carr, takes a closer look at what this year’s event has to offer. For more information, visit sligochamber.ie.

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A local county councillor and teacher says the amount of time that some children are missing from schools could well be a lingering effect of the Covid-19 era

One in three children in disadvantaged schools are missing more than four weeks of school per year, according to a new report.

Research by the Economic and Social Research Institute found 'chronic' school absenteeism is showing little signs of improvement.

When a student misses more than 20 days in a school year Tusla are notified.

Leitrim Councillor James Gilmartin says that children are less miss to attend time if they are attending smaller primary schools.

The Independent Councillor says the number of day being missed by some students are concerning.

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A Sligo Councillor has claimed there needs to be a roundabout for traffic from Ballymote entering the N17.

Barry Gallagher raised a motion on the matter at the latest sitting of the Ballymote-Tubbercurry MD.

The N17 has seen a large number of road traffic accidents in the last space of time prompting calls for an upgrade to the route.

The Fianna Fail Councillor says the roundabout would be near any potential N17 upgrade:

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Ahead of a busy weekend for shops across the North West a Sligo Councillor is urging shoopers to treat staff in the retail sector with respect and kindness.

Many stores in Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal are bracing themselves for a busy period over the Bank Holiday Weekend.

Earlier this week it was reported that Up to 70% of retail workers have experienced abusive language or behaviour from customers, according to new research released as part of Kindness Week.

The survey of 500 retail workers found verbal abuse is the most common issue, with one in three saying it happens at least once a week.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Fianna Fáil Councillor Cllr Dara Mulvey says it costs nothing to be kind and respectful to retail staff.

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A Sligo Councillor has called to front load funding for SEAI grants so that elderly and vulnerable people can address heating issues in many homes across the North West.

A new package of SEAI grants announced by the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O'Brien this week

The National Residential Retrofit Plan 2026 introduced a suite of enhanced supports designed to make home energy upgrades more affordable and accessible.

It's thought that the funding could help the Country meet it's climate emission targets.

Sligo Councillor Tom McSharry says the cost of living and heating homes is a primary concern for many people at present.

He says it's vital financial barriers that have prevented many from making their homes warmer are remove without delay.

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A Leitrim Councillor is calling on Local Authority to address the serious safety concerns on the approach to road to Ballinaglera from the Dora side.

Cllr Enda McGloin tabled a motion on the issue at the January meeting of the Ballinamore Municipal District of Leitrim County Council.

The Fine Gael elected representative is looking for assessment be conducted on the hedging and drain along the road close to St Hugh's Park.

Speaking to Ocean FM news Cllr Mc Gloin believes there is a real and present danger that vehicles could easily overturn at this location if the drive too close to the verge.

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A Sligo Senator has criticised the Government over the exclusion of three local school projects from the Department of Education’s latest priority list.

Senator Nessa Cosgrove made the comments after  Ursuline College in Sligo, Gaelscoil Chnoc na Ré and Scoil Mhuire in Carrick-on-Shannon, all of which she says are in urgent need of new buildings were not included on the list.

The Labour Senator says students, staff and parents will feel deeply disappointed after years of waiting and repeated engagement with the Department.

Speaking in the Seanad, Senator Nessa Cosgrove says the scale of frustration locally cannot be underestimated.

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The RNLI along with the Coast Guard and Water Safety Ireland, are urging people to check weather conditions before heading out for any Coastal Water Activities across the North West  this Bank Holiday weekend.

Strong winds are expected along coastal waters and members of the public are being advised waterside pathways may have been damaged during the recent storms and may be unsafe.

RNLI Regional Water Safety Lead Linda Gene-Byrne, has this advice for people walking on coasts.

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A Bill being put forward on fossil gas infrastructure is being criticised.

Friends of the Irish Environment says accelerating LNG does not protect the country from geopolitical instability, price shocks or supply disruption.

The practice of fracking was banned after a successful campaign led by the former Sligo Leitrim Deputy Tony McLoughlin.

Director of Friends of the Irish Environment Tony Lowes says fracked gas is not secure:

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Inshore fishing groups are calling for urgent action to protect livelihoods along Ireland's coastline.

Donegal TD Pádraig Mac Lochlainn says a basic income scheme could support up to 900 fishermen facing rising costs and climate pressures.

He says the proposal has strong cross-party backing and needs to be delivered in the short term.

Speaking in the Dáil, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn said small inshore fishermen are central to the cultural and economic life of coastal Donegal.

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A report published today by the Money Advice and Budgeting Service has highlighted how homeowners affected by defective concrete are falling behind on their mortgage payments.

The report has found that the issues are interlinked with homeowners affected being of higher risk of falling into arrears.

The body is calling for urgent support for people affected by the scandal with the establishment of a new scheme to aid in mortgage payments.

Karl Cronin - Area Manager at MABS North Connacht & Ulster says it's a perfect storm:

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A Leitrim Councillor has warned that rising construction prices will prevent many people from building and renovating properties.

Councillor Padraig Fallon made the comments while reacting to the latest GeoDirectory Residential Buildings Report which stated that Leitrim has the highest residential vacancy rate in the Country.

The Sinn Fein Councillor says ever increasing construction costs are deterring many people from building or renovating at present while securing finance is also an issue for many.

Cllr Fallon says rising costs coupled with planning laws will continue to result in less new builds or renovations:

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Farmers in the North West have reacted angrily to the fact that those not registered for VAT have had a reduction in their "flat-rate addition" compensation when selling animals at marts.

A number of local Marts have also criticized the move.

The rate has been reduced from 5.1% in 2025 to 4.5% this year.

It means non-VAT registered farmers in Ireland will receive less VAT compensation on their sales, with calculations indicating a loss of approximately €2.86 for every €1,000 worth of livestock sold.

The changes will only effect mart sales and not factory sales.

Sligo Independent Councillor Michael Clarke says the marts will not gain from the increase, adding that it's the government will receive the funds.

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Construction on a new playground and outdoor gym in Sligo Town has begun this week.

The work will see Mitchell Curley Park gain a calisthenics gym as well as the renovation and expansion of the exisitng playground in the park.

The funding for the works was announced in October under the Housing Finance Agency's Social Investment Fund.

Sligo Borough Councillor Fergal Nealon says it's good news for the town:

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Despite an announcement expected in the coming days of new ambulance crew and staff for the local region, a Donegal councillor has again raised the urgent need for additional ambulances and crews to be provided for south Donegal.

Sinn Féin's Noel Jordan is warning that the likely allocation which will be announced this week is far from what is required to properly service the area.

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A Palestine Solidarity public meeting will take place in Sligo this evening.

Poet Sarah Clancy, who participated in the recent Gaza Flotilla and Eoghan McNeill, co-founder and editor of The Ditch are amongst the guest speakers for this evening's event.

The meeting, organised by the Sligo Palestine Solidarity Committee, will be held in the Glasshouse Hotel at 8pm.

Former Sinn MEP and Councillor Chris McManus is one of the organisers of the public meeting.

He expects that the meeting will issue calls on the Irish Government to pass the Occupied Territories Bill in full and impose sanctions on Israel.

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A member of the Regional Health Forum West has urged people to go to hospital if they are extremely unwell despite the overcrowding in North West hospitals.

Today's figures have confirmed that there are 57 people waiting on a bed in Letterkenny and 55 in Sligo.

The numbers in the local emergency departments are 16 in Letterkenny and 33 in Sligo.

The local figures account for over 16% of Wednesday's national figure of 695.

Another Hospital in the Saolta Hospital Group, Galway University is the second most overcrowded facility in the Country behind Limerick University Hospital.

Their figures stand at 73 in Galway and 119 in Limerick.

Roscommon Councillor Sean Moynan says to not be frightened of the high figures if you are sick:

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The Local Authority in Sligo has recently commenced an Active Travel Scheme within the speed limits of Grange Village along the N15.

This project is currently in the early stages of development and is intended to identify locations where existing walking and cycling facilities need to be improved.

Feedback received during the consultation will be used to identify key constraints and opportunities and help shape the developing design.

Public Consultation will take place from early February right up to the beginning of March.

Sligo Independent Councillor Marie Casserly is urging as many people as people as possible to submit their views during the consultation phase.

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A Sligo/Leitrim Junior Minister has labelled the latest SEAI Grants as a positive step to tackle rising costs.

The move was announced yesterday evening with a total package of just under 560 million euro.

The grants will allow for people to retrofit their homes to make them more energy efficient and in turn more sustainable.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Minister Marian Harkin says it's now possible to undertake retrofitting works one by one under the grant:

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A public consultation is due to get underway this evening around the future layout of Ballyshannon.

The consultation is scheduled to run from 4pm until 8pm in the library in the town.

It's set to discuss key problems like housing, road layouts and utility needs.

Local Councillor Michael McMahon says it's imperative that people have their say:

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A Sligo Councillor has called on the government to implement the promised changes to the Criminal Law and Civil Law Bill as soon as possible.

These changes will see homosexuality convictions handed out before 1993 abolished.

Last week Justice Minister said he will amend legislation.

The Labour Party have been to the fore in calling for these changes, Sligo based Councillor Ann Higgins says the historical laws around same sex relationships destroyed many lives.

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Housing adaptation grants remain an issue in the North West despite funding being allocation towards the scheme.

That's according to Ballymote/Tubbercurry Councillor Liam Brennan, who put forward a motion on the topic in the January meeting of Sligo County Council.

His Fianna Fail colleague Eamon Scanlon raised the issue in the Dail last week with the Deputy describing the situation as critical.

Speaking to Ocean FM News Brennan said that the funding in place for the scheme isn't enough:

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A Donegal TD has accused the Government of cooking the books when it comes to hospital waiting times.

It comes as the Health Minister will bring a new action plan to Cabinet aimed at reducing waiting times.

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill will set out 36 actions to reduce the amount of time patients are spending on waiting lists.

Her Department says weighted average wait time for patients almost halved in the year to the end of December.

But Deputy Padraig MacLochlainn believes that isn't the true picture:

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Uncertainty remains for a number of elderly Enniscrone residents who are facing eviction.

Six households are being told they must move out by June 5th.

The residents, some of who are in their 80s and with major health issues, are living in a wider estate for independent living with a nursing home located in the centre of it.

The homes - part of an estate named Sonas Retirement Village - were previously owned by Sonas, the former owners of the nursing home, but rented out privately but there were changes to the ownership of both the nursing home and the surrounding houses last year.

Local Cllr Joe Queenan says efforts are ongoing by Sligo County Council to find those affected alternative accommodation and is hopeful that common sense will prevail in the interim:

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A former North West local election candidate says the incident over the weekend in where a female Councillor in Meath was allegedly spat at a and racially abused will discourage women and those who have moved here from entering politics

Gardai were notified after an elected councillor reported she was spat at and racially abused in Co Meath last Friday.

Caitriona Bergin contested the last local elections in the Manorhamilton MD for Fine Gael

She says the incident involving, Yemi Adenuga (Pronounced Yem-E A Gue-na) which took place in Navan on Friday last is a terrible reflection on society.

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A Sligo Leitrim TD has urged all farmers to double their efforts when it comes to preventing the spread of Bluetongue,

Officials from the Department of Agriculture are meeting today to discuss the first outbreak of bluetongue in the Republic of Ireland.

The virus was confirmed in a cattle herd in Co Wexford at the weekend.

The Department of Agriculture says it increased its testing and surveillance for Bluetongue since the virus was detected in Northern Ireland last month.

The Sinn Fein spokesperson on Agriculture is Deputy Martin Kenny he says that although the virus doesn't pose any threat to food safety or human health it has the potential do doe serious harm on farms.

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Met Eireann has come in for criticism over the latest weather alerts for the North West.

A yellow wind warning is currently in place for Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal until 11pm tonight however it's thought that an orange level alert should have been issued instead.

Several routes are impacted by fallen trees across the region this morning while there were thousands of power outages - areas of Collooney, Ballyshannon, Manorhamilton and Donegal Town continue to be impacted.

Donegal County Councillor Michael Boyle has hit out at Met Eireann and also says Coilte needs to get its act together:

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A Leitrim Councillor is calling for every support to be given to demands by the ESB for a 55 Metre cutback area from power lines to be established in forestry plantations.

At present the requirement is for a 20 metre corridor which was introduced following severe and damaging storms last year.

ESB officials informed Councillors in Leitrim at a meeting yesterday that 30-40% of damages to their infrastructure locally was due to trees falling on lines.

They also confirmed that 80,000 poles nationwide will need to be replaced.

Leitrim Fianna Fail Councillor Mary Bohan wants the new legislation regarding how close trees can be planted to powerlines to be implemented as soon as possible:

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A former election candidate for the Green Party says the current election for the position of party Deputy Leader is a missed opportunity to connect with rural areas.

The positions is to be voted on by members with nominations for the role closing today.

The role is expected to be contested between Louth councillor Marianne Butler and Dublin City councillor Hazel Chu.

Leslie O Hora, the party's South Leitrim representative says the party leadership need a strong rurally based figure, he feels that given current party numbers the policy of joint leaders should be considered:

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The Irish Farmers' Association will protest outside Bord Bia headquarters today.

They claim the position of Chairman Larry Murrin, is untenable.

Dawn Farm Foods of which Murrin is CEO, has confirmed that Brazilian beef accounted for 1% of its beef supply in 2025.

Various farm organisations and Sinn Féin have called for Larry Murrin to resign.

However, the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, has expressed "full confidence" in him.

Donegal Sinn Fein Deputy Padraig MacLochlain says today’s protest will show that Minster Hayden is out of touch with the views of farmers.

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Pharmacies across the North West are being urged to sign up for the Common Conditions Service.

The scheme allows for pharmacists to treat numerous conditions without the need for the patient to enter hospitals or GP care.

Pharmacists can now issue prescriptions for the treatment of these conditions under the scheme.

President of the Irish Pharmacy Union and Donegal native Tom Murray says it will relieve the pressure on hospitals:

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There are calls on Donegal County Council to immediately delete all of its official accounts on X.

The local authority is also being urged to cease any future official use of the platform, and issue a public statement to outline same.

Formally known as Twitter, the platform developed the AI chatbot Grok, which has caused major concern for local authorities and regulators due to its potential to manipulate and generate harmful content.

A number of County Councils are said to be reviewing how they use X, while several others have reduced activity.

But local Cllr Micheál Choilm Mac Giolla Easbuig believes it needs to be more than a reivew:

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There are further calls for a comprehensive, long-term solution for coastal erosion in Strandhill.

It comes following confirmation in recent days that some emergency works are to take place in the area later this year.

However, there is concern locally that the works do not go far enough.

The community is said to be still without a clear timeline for when meaningful, long-term protection will actually be delivered for what's been described as a vulnerable stretch of coastline.

Fianna Fail Cllr Tom MacSharry says what's currently on the table is a step in the right direction:

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Sligo Leitrim TD calls on Agriculture Minister to remove Bord Bia Chair

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The Donegal GAA podcast returns for a new season - and it's a winning start for Donegal with a 1-20 0-20 victory against Dublin in their opening Division 1 league game.

It's their first win over Dublin at Croke Park in the league since 1994.

Contributions from Martin McHugh, Jim McGuinness, Caolan McGonagle (on his 100th Donegal appearance), along with journalists Alan Foley and Frank Craig.

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HSA launches farm inspection campaign in North West

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Manorhamilton MD looking to secure funding for housing estate

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Farming organisation dealing with postage issues ahead of calving period

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Leitrim Cllr raises traffic issues in local village

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A Sligo-Leitrim TD has pushed for further funding towards numerous schemes in the area.

The Community Involvement and Local Improvement schemes and have been used by county councils in the area for investment into projects like road improvements and rural connectivity.

Fianna Fail TD Eamon Scanlon raised the issue with Tanaiste Simon Harris in the Dail yesterday.

The pair discussed the topic with the Tanaiste claiming it would be a value-for-money investment:

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A North Leitrim Councillor has called on the Local Authority to provide a sports bursary for young individual athletes.

Cllr Justin Warnock says it's vital that young Leitrim Sports people who could achieve recognition at National, European or International levels be supported by the Council.

The Fianna Fáil elected representative has outlined that there is a huge cost associated when it comes to elite sports people training and that local financial support should be made available to them.

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A Leitrim Councillor has claimed that the after effects of Storm Eowyn are still prevalent.

It's a year since the record-breaking storm made landfall causing damage and power cuts in the North West.

After the storm, Forestry Minister Michael Healy Rae visited Leitrim pledged support for communities affected by the weather.

Fianna Fail Councillor Gary Prior says that power cable corridors through forestry are needed:

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Frustration is growing among businesses in Ballisodare over numerous water outages.

Uisce Eireann has come under fire for ongoing issues in the village - it's estimated that there have been seven outages over the last 12 months.

Another outage happened only this week, impacting hundreds of premises.

In previous instances, businesses had to close early as they could no longer trade without a water supply.

Fine Gael Cllr Thomas Walsh says it clear that there is a bigger problem in the area that just a quick fix and the utility need to get to the bottom of it:

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It’s being claimed there are a number of minor road traffic accidents are taking place on a regular basis the north Leitrim town of Manorhamilton are never reported.

Local Councillors were told that the accidents are as a result of HVG vehicles attempting to come down the Main Street and trying to turn up towards the local Super Valu store.

Local Councillor Felim Gurn says such moves are leading to major traffic disruption and that a number of minor collisions have also taken place as a result.

The Independent Councillor has called for parking places to be removed in order to make ease the situation 

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The situation with housing adaptation grants in Sligo/Leitrim has been described as critical.

A budget was set by Sligo County Council last year to tackle applications but the funding allocation from the Government wasn't enough.

This resulted in the local authority having to seek an emergency top up.

The scheme has been paused locally with successful applications also remaining unfunded.

Speaking in the Dail, Fianna Fail TD Eamon Scanlon says the delay is having a huge impact on the ground at a local level:

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A Sligo childcare provider has called for the government to nationalise early years care facilities.

It's after RTE reported that almost 1000 childcare facilities have shut in the last six years according to the Department of Children.

It has led to fears in the North West that early year’s care facilities may be at risk of closure.

Stephanie McGarry-Pourier from La Petite Montessori in Carraroe says a similar system is in place in France:

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Jigsaw has called for continued action to embed stronger mental health supports and training in schools, following the publication of a new ESRI report on student wellbeing.

The report highlights that schools are increasingly on the frontline of youth mental health, with exams, homework and general school pressures the biggest stressors for young people.

Jigsaw says programmes like Neart are helping teachers build confidence, spot early warning signs and support students before problems reach crisis point.

Speaking to Ocean FM News Rachel White, Donegal Campaigns Officer, says Jigsaw is urging government to invest long-term in prevention, early intervention and clear pathways to specialist mental health services.

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Residents along the N15 between Grange and the Leitrim border have raised safety concerns for many years, with petitions and repeated calls for action.

While a full upgrade of the N15 remains the long-term goal, Sligo County Council is now pushing for immediate safety interventions on accident-prone sections of the route.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland is examining a major road safety improvement scheme, with public consultation planned and construction hoped to begin in 2027, subject to approval and funding.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Cllr Marie Casserly says the road is extremely dangerous and it's vital that urgent safety measures are finally delivered for the benefit of residents and all road users.

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A Sligo Councillor is adamant that there must be a review into tax changes proposed for carers.

It's emerged that some local carers face a sizeable tax bill dating back years.

Revenue has written to more than 34,000 people that are potentially affected across the country.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Labour Councillor Ann Higgins said that carers across Sligo are struggling to provide for their parents:

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Concerns have been raised over the continued closure of beds at Killybegs Community Hospital, with 13 currently lying vacant despite growing pressure on acute hospitals.

Families in the wider Killybegs area say loved ones are being forced to relocate to hospitals and care facilities far from home, causing distress and disconnection.

The issue of staffing shortages and reduced services at the hospital's day care centre has also been highlighted, with calls for clarity on recruitment progress.

Speaking in the Seanad, Fine Gael Senator Manus Boyle says the beds must be reopened as a matter of urgency to properly support patients and families across the region.

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The Oireachtas Transport Committee has been told taxi apps like Uber and FreeNow are shifting power away from drivers, with concerns raised over fixed fares and rising commissions.

Taxi representative groups warned the changes threaten driver incomes, undermine the regulated meter system and are reducing rural taxi availability.

Calls were made for stronger regulation of app companies or the creation of a publicly controlled booking system to protect drivers and passengers.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Daithi Feehily, owner of Feehily’s Taxi, Coach and Bus Hire, said app technology has grown rapidly but high commissions are making it harder for drivers to earn a sustainable living.

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Sligo is set to get the biggest share of Local Sports Partnership investment in the North West.

Local Sports Partnership in Sligo is receiving €483,000, Donegal is getting €477,000
while Leitrim Local Sports Partnership is receiving €226,000.

Nationally, it's been described as a record €33.36 million in core funding for sporting organisations in 2026,

Junior Minister Marian Harkin says the substantial funding is about making sport more inclusive:

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The clean-up operation from Storm Eowyn in the North West and beyond could continue into 2027.

County Leitrim was one of the worst hit Counties when the severe weather event made landfall almost one year ago.

Semi-State forestry company Coillte has now stated that ongoing work will now take longer than originally forecast.

It estimates a total of 50 million trees were blown over or damaged during the storm, with around 20% of its trees recovered so far.

Leitrim Cllr Brendan Barry says many local forestry owners will be hugely disappointed:

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A Donegal TD has accused the Government of deliberately leaving families living in dangerously defective homes to avoid paying out under the concrete blocks scheme.

Deputy Charles Ward says homeowners who clearly qualify under IS 465, including those with high mica levels and Group 4 damage, are being shut out through technical excuses.

The Doengal Deputy claims this is putting families in immediate danger, with people left afraid to live in homes officially classed as unsafe.

Speaking in the Dáil, the Independent Deputy says this is not a mistake but a deliberate pattern that must be stopped.

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The January meeting of the Manorhamilton Municipal District of Leitrim County Council heard calls for the Local Authority in Leitrim to contact Sligo County Council seeking urgent remedial works on part of the N16.

The section of road in question runs from the county boundary at Gortnagrelly to Lugnagall.

Independent Councillor James Gilmartin raised the issue, adding that the section has deteriorated to an extremely poor condition, creating safety concerns and causing damage to vehicles.

Sligo County Council has informed its counterparts in Leitrim that the road is due for a new pavement scheme this year, subject to TII allocation approval.

Cllr Gilmartin says that, given the importance of this route, swift attention and necessary repairs are required as a matter of urgency:

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Serious concern has been raised over the wastewater treatment plant in Carrick in Donegal.

The system is said to be currently operating at overcapacity and this has led to fears that it'll put a halt to potential development and future growth in the area.

It has led to urgent calls for an environmental impact assessment to be carried out.

Local Cllr Jimmy Brogan believes that the thorough investigation and the appropriate action are urgently needed: 

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Serious concern has been raised over the wastewater treatment plant in Carrick in Donegal.

The system is said to be currently operating at overcapacity and this has led to fears that it'll put a halt to potential development and future growth in the area.

It has led to urgent calls for an environmental impact assessment to be carried out.

Local Cllr Jimmy Brogan believes that the thorough investigation and the appropriate action are urgently needed: 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Serious concern has been raised over the wastewater treatment plant in Carrick in Donegal.

The system is said to be currently operating at overcapacity and this has led to fears that it'll put a halt to potential development and future growth in the area.

It has led to urgent calls for an environmental impact assessment to be carried out.

Local Cllr Jimmy Brogan believes that the thorough investigation and the appropriate action are urgently needed: 

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It's claimed that residents in the Caltragh area of Sligo feel forgotten about.

There's said to be inadequate facilities, amenities and infrastructure in the area to cater to the vast amount of people living there.

While an Active Travel project is the pipeline which is set to make some improvements, there's concern that it could some time before it gets underway.

Fine Gael Cllr Fergal Nealon says its important all planned works for Caltragh to fast tracked as much as possible:

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An action plan released for the promotion of the Irish language is said to not be enough for Gaeltacht residents in Donegal.

The report was published on Tuesday afternoon by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, and pledged holistic, measurable and practical approach to issues in Gaeltacht areas.

However there are concerns that more is needed on the action plan.

Glenties MD Cllr Micheal Choilm Mac Golla Easbuig says change is needed:

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A Sligo Leitrim TD has welcomed the news that the Mercosur trade deal will be referred to the European Court of Justice.

MEPs voted for the move in the European Parliament today.

The move could delay the deal by ⁠two years and potentially derail ⁠it.

MEPs voted 334 to 324 in favour of asking the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) to determine whether the deal is compatible with the bloc's policy.

Ireland was one of five countries, including France, Austria, Hungary and Poland, to vote against the agreement.

Separately the Sinn Finn Spokesperson on Agriculture of Agriculture, has also called on the Bord Bia Chairperson to Resign.

The calls from Deputy Martin Kenny were made after Dawn Farms confirmed that Brazilian beef accounted for 1 per cent of its overall beef supply in 2025.

The CEO of Dawn meats is Larry Murrin who also holds the position of Chairman of Bord Bia - the group tasked with the marketing and promotion of Irish food and drink.

Speaking to Ocean FM News Deputy Kenny says Mr Murrin has to step down from his role with Bord Bia

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The Government has further reiterated that there will be no greenway on the disused rail line between Claremorris and Collooney.

In November, it was confirmed that funding for the Western Rail Corridor line from Athenry to Claremorris was to be made available and that works on the line will commence within the next 18 months.

A commitment was also given then that following the completion of those works, attentions would turn to phase three, linking Claremorris to Collooney.

However, there are still doubts locally over whether a greenway will still be placed on the line in the interim.

The issue was raised in the Seanad by Sligo Senator Nessa Cosgrove who pressed for a firm commitment for no greenway on the existing line.

Speaking on behalf of the Transport Minister, Minister of State Jerry Buttimer says the Government is firmly committed to the reinstatement of the Western Rail Corridor:

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Local Government TDs have been accused of being an obstacle to delivering the Western Rail Corridor.

It comes as funding for the Sligo Greenway was announced this week.

The project faced a setback before Christmas after the local authority said it was suspending any further works as the preferred route is no longer available and a suggested alternative option was not viable.

Irish Rail had previously indicated that it couldn't support the preferred route at this time, but it indicated support for an alternative "alongside" option, running parallel to the railway.

But local Cllr Michael Clarke believes that there's not enough of a focus on reopening of the rail line from the Claremorris to Collooney and has questioned the silence from the three Sligo Leitrim TDs:

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A Leitrim GAA official is supporting the stance taken by Dublin football and hurling players in protesting over the GAA's decision to keep Allianz as the sponsor of its national league.

Several GAA County Boards are calling on the Association to cut its ties with the insurance brand, after its parent company was listed in a UN report on the occupied Palestinian territories.

Some Dublin players are now refusing to be photographed alongside Allianz branding.

Leitrim GAA has previously called on GAA to end its sponsorship agreements with Allianz over the conflict in Palestine.

The Sean O’ Heslins Ballinamore Club tabled a motion calling for the partnership to be severed at December's convention.

Club official Sean O Suilleabhain says the General public should also boycott Allianz in opposition to their connections Palestinian territories.

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A serious incident of fly-tipping saw nearly 35 bags of rubbish dumped along roadsides in Hazelwood over the weekend, close to the entrance to Half Moon Bay.

The waste, which included household rubbish, ash and garden waste, was reported by local residents and cleared quickly by council staff and litter wardens.

Council officials are now reviewing CCTV footage as fly-tipping is illegal, environmentally damaging and places an unnecessary cost on taxpayers.

Cllr Marie Casserly says the dumping is completely unacceptable, particularly in such a beautiful area, and she's urging anyone with information to contact the council or gardaí.

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A Midlands North West MEP says Ireland should a leading light in Europe when it comes to tackling non-consensual AI generated images.

Maria Walsh says Ireland holds more power on this issue than we realise:

Her comments come as Grainne Seoige will address the Oireachtas Media Committee on the dangers of deepfakes today.

Fake explicit images of the broadcaster were shared online during her general election campaign for Fianna Fail last year.

Maria Walsh says Ireland should drive change

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A North Leitrim Councillor says the creation of a new camping site in Kiltyclogher will help attract more tourists into the area.

Concerns over the lack of tourism accommodation have been sounded in in the areas for a long period of time.

Kiltyclogher Community Council have lodged a successful application with Leitrim County Council to develop the recreational site at the town's community centre.

The project will consist of a single-storey camp site amenity building, which could service five campervan pitches and five tents.

A sauna, fire pit seating area and other amenities are also included in the plans.

The project the go-ahead subject to 12 conditions.

Local Independent Councillor Eddie Mitchell says this development will provides options to those looking to holiday in the north of the County

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The Ballysadare Rural Regeneration project has reached the initial concept stage of the design process.

A public consultation is taking place today from 4pm to 8pm on Peacock Lane, inviting the community to have their say.

The €640,000 government-funded project aims to regenerate key sites in the centre of the village.

Speaking to Ocean FM News, Cllr Thomas Walsh says it’s great news for the community of Ballysadare and a sign the project is progressing.

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The January meeting of the Manorhamilton MD of Leitrim County Council heard calls for the RSA to ban automatic LED light that dip when they meet other vehicles.

Today’s meeting was told how such lights are a danger to motorists on rural roads.

Cllr Justin Warnock tabled a motion as a result of personal experience where the use of such lights almost led to him being involved in an accident.

The Fianna Fáil Councillor also raised concern over the use of LED light bulbs in headlights not manufactured for them.

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Sligo County Council is being urged to monitor its use of X going forward.

The platform, formally known as Twitter developed the AI chatbot Grok, which has caused serious concern for local authorities and regulators due to its potential to manipulate and generate harmful content.

An analysis by the Irish Independent has found that a number of County Councils are reviewing how they use X, while several others have reduced activity.

Cathaoirleach of Sligo County Council, Cllr Donal Gilroy says it's something that needs to be looked at going forward in a bid to get the balance right:

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Donegal is said to lag behind the national average for survival rates for Breast Cancer.

The five-year survival rate in Donegal is 87.1% in contrast to the average countrywide figure which is 87.3%.

The data was released to Aontu following a Parliamentary Question.

Additionally, the party has found a 12% difference in survival outcomes between women diagnosed in public hospitals versus private hospitals

Aontú rep for Donegal, Mary T Sweeney says it's clear there are significant regional disparities in breast cancer survival rates and this is wholly unacceptable:

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The ongoing flood risk in the border community of Pettigo is to be examined in greater detail through a cross-border assessment.

Flooding has seriously impacted many homes and businesses in Pettigo in the past, with huge concern being expressed about future risk.

A recent national review concluded that Pettigo does not meet the threshold for designation as an Area of Potentially Significant Flood Risk.

Sinn Féin MLA Jemma Dolan says agreement has now been reached between the Office of Public Works and the Department for Infrastructure Rivers to work together on assessing flood risk along the River Termon.

The Fermanagh South Tyrone MLA says cooperation is essential in delivering real solutions.

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There are calls for more derelict houses in Sligo to be refurbished.

It comes as a number of compulsory purchase orders have been made on dwellings on Holborn Hill with a view towards bringing them back up to a habitable standard.

However, the list of derelict sites in the County of Sligo is said to be substantial.

Major of the Sligo Borough, Cllr Gino O'Boyle says every effort should be made to increase the level of social housing available in the area:

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Dog fouling is said to be still a serious issue in Sligo.

It comes following concern over the level of dog waste bins across a number of residential parks within Sligo Town.

Meanwhile, there's are also calls on Sligo County Council to adopt a get tough approach to the issue.

On the spot fines and court proceedings have been cited as some of measures that need to be urgently introduced locally.

Fianna Fail Cllr Tom MacSharry believes that the local authority need to step up to the mark:

Labour Cllr Anne Higgins says more dog waste bins need to be considered but unfortunately that could also pose its own problems:

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The Donegal winner of the Daily Million draw in October has admitted that they knew all along about the win.

The winner claimed their prize with days to go before the deadline earlier this month.

The winning ticket was kept in a lockbox, however the winner lost the key before claiming the winnings.

Darragh O'Dwyer from the National Lottery says the player intended to keep the ticket until the New Year:

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Calls have been made on Leitrim County Council to increase awareness about the Salt Bin Purchasing scheme.

This initiative encourages residents' associations and businesses to purchase a salt bin and salt from the council for housing estates or business premises.

Manorhamilton MD Councillor Eddie Mitchell says there is an opportunity now to get more bins established and help people to help themselves and their neighbours in the event of the region being hit by a cold spell of weather.

Speaking to Ocean FM, Cllr Mitchell says that not enough people know about the scheme:

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There's major disappointment in the Sligo Borough following confirmation that no new bus shelters are to be established for 2026.

New infrastructure is set to be installed across 21 areas in the County this year but none are planned for the likes of Sligo Town or Strandhill.

Each shelter is set to cost twenty five thousand euro with areas like Mullaghmore, Carney Village, Drumcliff Ballygawley and Collooney all set to benefit from the rollout.

But Fine Gael Fergal Nealon says to have nothing planned for Sligo town is outrageous:

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It’s been claimed that a cohort of people in Sligo Town are illegally dumping in secluded locations.

Shopping bags full of rubbish have been discovered dumped in the likes of alleyways and other areas in recent weeks.

Theres major disappointment locally over the issue, particularly in light of Sligos recent accolade from IBAL while the good work of the Tidy Towns Committees is also being undone.

Sinn Fein Cllr Arthur Gibbons says these individuals must be deterred and the local authority have a responsibility in introducing measures that will do that:

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A Leitrim Publican has added his voice to calls for pubs to be granted an extension to opening hours in the event of the Irish soccer team qualifying for the World Cup.

The tournament is due to take place in the summer.

The boys in green will have to first of all navigate two qualifiers.

Leitrim independent Councillor Felim Gurn is also a publican, he says there is a generation in Ireland that have never experienced Ireland in a world cup, the Manorhamilton based business man says pubs could also do with a boost:

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€360 million in Government funding for Active Travel and Greenways in 2026 has been announced this morning.

The funding is dedicated to the development of walking and cycling projects that offer safe, sustainable, and healthy transport options to communities around the country.

The funding will enable almost 1,000 projects of varying scale to progress in 2026.

Over 18 million has been allocated to the Local Authorities of Donegal, Sligo, and Leitrim.

Over 10 million has been secured by the local Authority in Donegal, almost 3 and a half million in Leitrim while just over 4 million has been allocated to Sligo County Council.

Sligo Independent Councillor Marie Casserly says many projects will benefit in Sligo

Meanwhile Junior minister Frank Feighan says the funding shows the government's commitment to the North West.

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