Showcasing Ireland's Independent Radio: Innovative Projects from Sound and Vision Funding.

Earlier this month, we explored the exciting new projects emerging within Ireland’s independent radio sector. In November 2023, Coimisiún na Meán approved €2.4 million in funding for this sector under the Sound and Vision 4 Broadcasting Funding Scheme. This funding made available by the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport, and Media, Catherine Martin TD, and administered by Coimisiún na Meán, provided allocations ranging from €35,000 to €95,000 to individual radio stations. 

This special funding round empowered commercial radio stations to produce programmes on topics of significant interest to their listeners. These topics include Media Literacy, Digital Transformation, Gender Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, and Developing Communities and Communities of Interest. A full list of the successful projects funded in Round 50 is available here. 

Many of these projects have already been launched across various stations, with some starting earlier this year and others just recently. This blog is the second in a series showcasing the innovative projects funded by this round. Below are examples of the new initiatives that have begun in stations across the country. Click here to read part one.  

The Islands, C103 

'The Islands' is a captivating new documentary series hosted by Gareth O’Callaghan on C103. This series takes listeners on a journey to the stunning islands off the West of County Cork. Throughout the summer and beyond, Gareth will immerse himself in the unique cultures and communities of these islands, sharing insights into the allure of island life. The series will explore Bere Island, Cape Clear, Sherkin Island, Whiddy Island, and Garnish Island. 

The first episode, which aired on June 3rd, featured Bere Island. Gareth brought the island to life through vivid audio, capturing the sounds of crashing waves, birdsong, and the natural ambiance. You can listen to the full episode here.  

A Parent’s Guide to Social Media, Ireland’s Classic Hits 

Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio has developed a 26-week series titled 'A Parent’s Guide to Social Media.' This series provides parents and guardians with a comprehensive overview of the pros and cons of social media. It aims to offer a deeper understanding of how different platforms operate and what to be aware of when children are online. Each episode is aired on radio and then available as a podcast. 

The series explores a wide range of topics, including the use of smartphones in schools, appropriate ages for smartphone use, and detailed guides for various social media platforms. It also features interviews with notable figures, such as Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Dr. Richard Hogan. Listen to the latest epsiode here.  

Collective Communities, Midlands 103 

The team at Midlands 103 is embarking on a journey to visit 26 towns and villages across Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath as part of their Collective Committees initiative. This initiative, broadcast during the Today Show with Will Faulkner, was launched to foster media engagement, amplify minority interests and voices, and promote a diverse range of interests in the region. Throughout the series, the team will collaborate with local communities to deepen their understanding of media relations and to positively highlight issues affecting local communities. A key focus of the initiative is to address gender balance by ensuring equal opportunities for women to participate and lead discussions. 

So far, the Midlands Today Show has featured insights from local development groups working on town plans, participants from Men’s and Women’s Sheds, and stories showcasing the rich history and culture of the area. The outside broadcasts are also tackling local concerns, celebrating diversity, and encouraging community collaboration. Speaking to Sinéad Hubble at Midlands 103, she said, “Local communities have really embraced the project and we received a large number of requests to visit different areas. The feedback from the local areas has been incredible.” Listen to the most recent episode of Collective Communities here. 

Community in Unity, Midwest Radio 

'Community in Unity', presented by Tommy Marren, gives a spotlight on all aspects of community life in small towns and villages in County Mayo. Life broadcasts on the main current-affairs programme from 9am to 11am have taken place in local halls and community centres showcasing the people and activities that keep local communities live and vibrant. From Louisburgh to Bonniconlon and from Balla to Killala – and lots of other place in between – Midwest Radio listeners have been treated to an array of historians. Community activists, climate action enthusiasts, sporting groups, musicians, poets and characters in a free-flowing series that promotes the importance of diversity, inclusion and volunteerism in small areas of the county. Speaking to Tommy Marren on this exciting series, he said, “There has been a massive success in providing incentives for other communities to establish similar projects in their own communities and shows how local radio can immerse itself in communities for the benefit of all.”  Listen to the latest episod of 'Community in Unity' by clicking here.

The Sound and Vision 4 Broadcasting Funding Scheme has sparked a surge of innovative projects throughout the sector. These initiatives, which celebrate local community spirit, encourage engagement, and capture local stories, are set to make a significant impact. Be sure to tune in and support these projects as they showcase the best of Irish life and community spirit. Part 3 of this series, featuring additional projects from Round 50, will be available on the 3rd of September 2024.