The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 30 Beyond the Pulpit with Canon David Skuce

The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 22/07/2026

[https://highlandradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Greg-Hughes-2026.png] Today we bring you a major healthcare victory for a Donegal family, practical medical advice for surviving peak summer hay fever, and an extensive, multi-sided debate on Letterkenny’s growing traffic crisis. Inside Today’s Episode: 🗞 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f5de.png] The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our daily review of the front pages, reviewing the top regional and national headlines breaking this morning. 💊 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f48a.png] Life-Changing News for Aaron Langan: Dermot Langan joins Greg to share joyous news following an intense, widely supported public campaign. Dermot’s son, Aaron, has officially been approved to receive the breakthrough drug Givinostat—a major milestone in his medical treatment and a moment of enormous relief for his family and supporters. 🌸 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f338.png] Beating Summer Hay Fever: Allergy specialist Colm Cosgrave drops by with expert guidance on managing seasonal allergies. He offers practical tips on preventing flare-ups, selecting the right treatments, and minimizing symptoms as pollen counts peak across the region. 🚗 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f697.png] The Letterkenny Traffic Gridlock Debate: We host an in-depth, multi-perspective debate on Letterkenny’s ongoing traffic woes, exploring why gridlock continues to paralyze the town and what needs to be done: * Avoiding the Town: Journalist Pat McArt argues that chronic delays and gridlock are actively driving shoppers and visitors away, with many choosing to avoid Letterkenny altogether due to unpredictable travel times. * The Business Perspective: Businessman and Letterkenny Chamber member Leonard Watson acknowledges the peak-time pressure points but offers a counter-perspective, asserting that outside of standard rush hours, the town remains vibrant, accessible, and open for business. * Political Clash on Active Travel & Ten-T: Cllrs Gerry McMonagle and Ciarán Brogan go head-to-head on the controversial traffic-calming measures, cycling infrastructure, and Active Travel schemes introduced across town. They clash over whether these measures are helping or hurting traffic flow—and assess the actual delivery timeline for the long-awaited Ten-T major road development. * Your Views: We read through a flood of texts and emails from listeners sharing their daily commuting nightmares, shortcut tips, and suggestions for solving Letterkenny’s gridlock. 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news: The post The Greg Hughes Show | Wednesday | 22/07/2026 [https://highlandradio.com/2026/07/22/the-greg-hughes-show-wednesday-22-07-2026/] appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport [https://highlandradio.com].

The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 30 Beyond the Pulpit with Canon David Skuce

[https://highlandradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/cannonpic-e1784644292933.jpg]As Canon David Skuce officially steps into retirement following seven years as Rector of the Dunfanaghy Union of Parishes, we sat down with him just days before his final service to look back on a remarkable 38-year career in ordained ministry. In this broad-ranging conversation, Canon Skuce reflects on his time serving Holy Trinity, Raymunterdoney, and Killult (Falcarragh), growing up in a Fermanagh rectory as the son of Archdeacon Leonard Skuce, and his life’s work within the Church of Ireland. We discuss: * The “Ministry of Presence”: His recollections of standing alongside the community and Fr John Joe Duffy during the aftermath of the Creeslough tragedy in 2022, and why simply showing up for people is the most important role of a pastor. * Faith & Community: The presence of the Church of Ireland in Donegal today, how it differs from the Church of England, and the ongoing importance of cross-community and inter-church dialogue. * Global Perspective: His insights on the situation in Israel following years of leading diocesan pilgrimages to the Middle East, Rome, and beyond. * Life Outside the Pulpit: His passion for motorcycling—from touring on his V-Strom 650 across Scandinavia, Morocco, and the West Coast of America to his trip to New Zealand earlier this year. * Outdoor Adventures & Sabbaticals: Canoeing out to Tory Island and back as a senior sea kayaking instructor, serving as Northern Ireland Chaplain to the Scouts, and his three-month sabbatical in South Africa helping out in local parish kitchens. Plus, Canon Skuce shares his famous golden rule for hosting: “Anything can be cooked at 180 degrees for an hour and a half!” The post The Greg Hughes Podcast | Ep 30 Beyond the Pulpit with Canon David Skuce [https://highlandradio.com/2026/07/22/the-greg-hughes-podcast-ep-30-beyond-the-pulpit-with-canon-david-skuce/] appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport [https://highlandradio.com].

The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 21/07/2026

[https://highlandradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Greg-Hughes-2026.png]   Today we address critical calls for reform across Ireland’s bail and prison systems, sweeping new government regulations for e-scooters, local road safety concerns in Donegal, and an inspiring milestone for organ donation. Inside Today’s Episode: 🗞 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f5de.png] The Morning Press: We kick off the show with our daily review of the front pages, taking a look at the leading national and regional headlines breaking this morning. ⚖ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2696.png] Critical Faults in Ireland’s Bail System: Niamh McCormack from the Irish Penal Reform Trust (IPRT) joins the program to discuss their scathing new report on pre-trial detention. She highlights systemic flaws in Ireland’s bail practices that contribute to severe prison overcrowding, arguing that pre-trial remand should only ever be deployed as a true last resort. 🛴 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f6f4.png] Sweeping New E-Scooter Legislation: Transport Minister of State Seán Canney joins Greg to detail major upcoming changes to laws governing e-scooters. He outlines new government plans, including extending bans for under-18s, mandatory protective gear, and moving toward official registration and licensing requirements. 🚨 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f6a8.png] The Garda Perspective on Enforcement: Brendan O’Connor, Garda Representative Association (GRA) spokesperson for Donegal, reacts to the Minister’s e-scooter announcement. He focuses on the practical realities facing frontline officers, questioning how Gardaí can effectively enforce registration and age limits on local streets without added resources. ⚠ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/26a0.png] Donegal Residents Demand Road Action: * 11 Collisions in 2 Months: Margaret in Convoy contacts the show following an alarming streak of crashes outside her home, making an urgent appeal to Donegal County Council to introduce immediate traffic-calming measures before there is a fatality. * Derrybeg Danger Zones: Bernie in Derrybeg also raises serious concerns over reckless driving and excessive speeds passing through her local community. 👮 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f46e.png] Community Garda Information: Garda Gerard McNamee delivers this week’s frontline brief, bringing listeners the latest local Garda appeals, active witness requests, and crime prevention advice across Donegal. 🫀 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1fac0.png] 99% Opt-In for Life-Saving Organ Donation: Colin White from the Irish Kidney Association joins the show to promote organ donation awareness, noting that 99% of the population have supported the transition to the new soft opt-out system. We also hear a powerful personal testimony from organ recipient Seamy, who shares how receiving a kidney donor 24 years ago completely transformed his life. ⚖ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/2696.png] Donegal Court Report: Court reporter Declan Brennan joins Greg to break down the legal proceedings and conviction of Mohamed Hallam, an Algerian national residing in Donegal since 2023. Brennan reviews the evidence presented in court following Hallam’s conviction for assaulting a woman after encountering her out socialising with friends in Letterkenny. 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news: The post The Greg Hughes Show | Tuesday | 21/07/2026 [https://highlandradio.com/2026/07/21/the-greg-hughes-show-tuesday-21-07-2026/] appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport [https://highlandradio.com].

The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 20/07/2026

[https://highlandradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Greg-Hughes-Podcast-scaled.png] Today we address long-term welfare dependencies and calls for job-activation reforms, an alarming roadside incident involving a local sporting legend, a heartbroken family seeking justice for a bullied young girl, and the latest report into eating disorders across Ireland. Inside Today’s Episode: 🗞 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f5de.png] The Morning Press: We kick off the program with our thorough daily review of the front pages, tracking the leading local and national headlines breaking this morning. 💼 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f4bc.png] Addressing Long-Term Jobseeker’s Allowance: Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín joins the show to discuss data surrounding individuals who have been receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance for over a decade. Highlighting the immense long-term cost to the Exchequer, Tóibín calls for dedicated state measures, targeted retraining, and tailored incentives specifically designed to help long-term recipients transition back into meaningful employment. 🚴 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f6b4.png] “Ireland is No Longer Safe for Cyclists”: Renowned ultra-endurance and professional cyclist Joe Barr recounts a frightening incident while training on the main Lifford to Letterkenny road. After a passing vehicle intentionally threw a bucket of water over him at speed, Joe reflects on the shocking lack of respect for road users, expressing deep concern that Irish roads are becoming increasingly hazardous for cyclists. 📱 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f4f1.png] Family’s Anguish over Viral Bullying Video: Pat Breslin from Strabane speaks to Greg following the circulation of a deeply disturbing video showing a young local girl being subjected to severe bullying. Pat, whose family cares for the young girl, expresses profound frustration and hurt, voicing their belief that police authorities have failed to act with sufficient urgency to protect her and hold those responsible accountable. 🌾 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f33e.png] 57th Clonmany Agricultural Festival Preview: Blaine McCarron joins Greg to look forward to the return of the 57th Clonmany Agricultural Festival, taking place on August 4th and 5th. Blaine outlines the exciting lineup—promising a vibrant mix of traditional livestock competitions, family entertainment, live music, and local trade stalls with something for everyone. 🧠 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f9e0.png] Reflecting on the Bodywhys Annual Report: Bodywhys CEO Harriet Parsons and service user Elsa Jane join the program to analyze the findings of the eating disorder association’s latest annual report. Elsa Jane shares her personal journey, while Harriet discusses the surging demand for support services, the ongoing challenges surrounding early intervention, and what needs to change in national healthcare provision. 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news: The post The Greg Hughes Show | Monday | 20/07/2026 [https://highlandradio.com/2026/07/20/the-greg-hughes-show-monday-20-07-2026/] appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport [https://highlandradio.com].

The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 17/07/26

[https://highlandradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Greg-Hughes-2026.png] Today we address a major debate on the future of micro-mobility, a stark look at our vulnerable water network, an exciting preview of local history, and a major transition of leadership for the Derry Diocese. Inside Today’s Episode: 💬 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f4ac.png] The Friday Panel: Cllr Donal “Mandy” Kelly, Environmental Campaigner Patricia Sharkey, and James Ward (Editor of the Irish Daily Mail) join Greg in-studio to thrash out the week’s most debated topics: * The E-Scooter Ban Debate: As pressure mounts on safety grounds, the panel debates whether Ireland should move toward a total, outright ban on e-scooters, or if stricter licensing and enforcement are the better path forward. * Water Infrastructure Under Pressure: With any brief spell of dry weather immediately triggering local supply warnings and restrictions, we ask: why is Ireland’s water network still so fragile, and what is needed to make it fit for purpose? * The Rise of Digital Wallets: As digital identification and payment wallets become standard, the panel looks at the convenience versus the privacy and security concerns of a increasingly cashless society. 🎙 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f399.png] The Greg Hughes Podcast: Greg previews this week’s long-form episode (available to stream now) featuring a fascinating chat with local guest Patrick Gallagher. He shares his extraordinary life journey, charting his rise from Glenveagh castle to running in high-society circles alongside some of the world’s richest and most famous figures. ⛪ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/26ea.png] A New Era for the Derry Diocese: Following the announcement of the retirement of Bishop Donal McKeown, we are joined by the newly appointed Bishop of Derry, Bishop Michael Router. Bishop Router joins us ahead of officially taking up his new role this coming September to discuss his vision for the diocese, tackling modern secularization, and his hope for pastoral renewal. ⚽ [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/26bd.png] Violence Marring Brandywell European Clash: We hear widespread condemnation and local reaction following the disturbing, violent scenes that broke out at the Brandywell during Derry City’s high-profile European fixture, looking at what this means for stadium security and the club’s reputation. 👑 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f451.png] The Mary From Dungloe Festival Turns 59: Festival Directors Pat Connaghan and Gavin Boyle join Greg in-studio to preview the highly anticipated 59th hosting of the iconic Mary From Dungloe International Festival, sharing what attendees can expect from this year’s stellar lineup of music, culture, and community events. 🎧 [https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/72x72/1f3a7.png] Listen to the full episode and stay ahead of the local news: The post The Greg Hughes Show | Friday | 17/07/26 [https://highlandradio.com/2026/07/17/the-greg-hughes-show-friday-17-07-26/] appeared first on Highland Radio - Latest Donegal News and Sport [https://highlandradio.com].