Beyond Belief - Sunday 21st June 2026

Former Clare TD James Breen Honoured As 'A Marvellous Man With Great Community Spirit' At Funeral Mass

Former Clare TD James Breen has been honoured as 'a marvellous man with great community spirit' at his funeral mass this afternoon. The Kilnamona native who spent 32 years serving this county, passed away peacefully on Wednesday night at 81 years of age. Having first been elected to Clare County Council in 1985, he was returned at every local election he contested thereafter. During today's ceremony a hymn book, commemorative tie and James' signature black hat were brought forward to symbolise his passion for politics, GAA, farming and his faith. Parish Priest Fr Martin Shanahan says his presence would make a room come alive.

Former Clare Hurling Captain Calls On GAA To Clamp Down On Head-High Tackles

A former Clare hurling captain has called for the GAA to urgently clamp down on head-high challenges to ensure player safety. It comes in the wake of Clare's 0-29 to 0-16 win over Dublin in the All Ireland Hurling Quarter Final. The result was marred by a serious injury suffered by David Reidy late in the second half. Tommy Guilfoyle says tackling a player in the act of picking up the ball needs to be outlawed.

Junior Transport Minister To Liaise With TII On Dangerous Stretch Of Clare National Secondary Road

The Junior Transport Minister claims he'll liaise with Transport Infrastructure Ireland with a view to reducing the speed limit on a dangerous section of a Clare national secondary road. Residents of Darragh recently met with Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Independent TD Seán Canney, to highlight their concerns around the speed limit, poor road surface and inadequate signage on their stretch of the N68. Over 1,100 locals signed a petition seeking upgrades at the location. Responding to Meelick Fianna Fáil TD Cathal Crowe in the Oireachtas Transport Committee, Minister Canney says the residents have "straight forward requests".

Mayor Looking Forward To "Bright Housing Future In Ennis"

The Mayor of Ennis says she's looking forward to a brighter future for housing in the town. It's after An Coimisúin Pleanála ruled in favour of Glenveagh Homes Plans to build a 300-unit estate near Drumbiggle. While sites at Ashline and at Claureen have also been confirmed for an investment of between €10m and €20m under the Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund that will unlock lands for the construction of up to 1,300 new units. Cathaoirleach of the Ennis Municipal District Cllr Mary Howard says it's vital works are carried out in a timely fashion.

Beyond Belief - Sunday 21st June 2026

Stephen Fletcher presents this Beyond Belief in which we hear how ancient pilgrimage paths and the beauty of the west are opening new doors of faith as he talks spiritual tourism with a Pioneer Minister in Training, Valerie Raitt. Also, as the Franciscan movement marks its 800th anniversary, Stephen talks to Fr Tom Ryan who tells us how this centuries old tradition remains surprisingly relevant — and urgently needed — today. And as usual Stephen talks to his colleague Fr Gerry Kenny to catch up with what is happening in our churches.