Ocean FM News Reports

A Donegal Cllr and publican has called for more clarity over the sale of zero-zero drinks to people who are underage. Reports emerged yesterday that there was confusion among a number of publicans as parents may be buying non-alcoholic drinks for their underage children. Some publicans are unsure of the legalities around this, and they’re having to refuse some orders, for fear the drink will be given to a minor. Cllr Martin Harley, of Donegal Vintners Federation, says he won’t sell zero-zero drinks to anyone underage as there is still a small percentage of alcohol in the drink:

Irene Guckian-Rabbitte has been officially elected to Leitrim County Council this week. Independent Cllr Guckian-Rabbitte was selected to fill the seat vacated by her father Des Guckian, who resigned from his role due to health reasons. The new Cllr will form part of the Carrick-on-Shannon Municipal District and hopes to continue her father’s work and help for the community. Cllr Guckian-Rabbitte says she wants to make her father proud:

The Principal of the Vocational school in Drumshanbo has paid a glowing tribute to one of his predecessors today stating that standing the school enjoys today was very much down to his vision and commitment to learning over many years.   Padraig McLoughlin who passed away yesterday served as Principal at the Leitrim School between 1973 and 2001.   He first joined the school as a science teacher and served as Deputy Principal before going on to enjoy a long stint as Principal.   Current Principal at the school Marty Fallon earlier explained how the legacy of Padraig McLoughlin is very evident right up to the current day.

A Sligo Leitrim TD has strongly criticised the government over their plans to consider a proposal to increase personal injury awards by 17%.   It's a move which Deputy Martin Kenny claims will push motor insurance premiums higher.   It was confirmed today that motor insurance premiums in Ireland have jumped by 9% in the first half of 2024, with further increases expected.   The information is contained in the latest report from the Central Bank.   With many rural dwellers across the North West depending on cars to commute to and from work they will no choice but to take the hit when it comes to renewing their motor insurance premiums.    Sinn Fein Deputy, Martin Kenny say increasing personal injury awards at this moment in time in not a sensible course of action.

The North West could be heavily impacted by the latest tariff threat from US President Donald Trump. He is planning to bring in 100 per cent tariffs on non-US films, which has caused huge concern among the Irish film and television industry. With more filming being done across Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal, it’s thought these tariffs could be devastating to the local economy, with industry valued in Ireland at over €1 billion. Midlands-North West MEP Maria Walsh is questioning the reasoning by the White House: