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Award-winning broadcaster Padraic Flaherty presents and produces a new three-part series exploring Shannon’s past, present and future.

Clare FM will broadcast a major new three-part documentary series, Shannon in Focus, beginning on Wednesday, November 11th, at 6pm.

Presented and produced by award-winning broadcaster Padraic Flaherty, the three hour-long documentaries will take listeners behind the scenes of some of Shannon’s most successful businesses, highlighting the innovation, employment and investment that make the region one of Ireland’s most important economic centres.

The series follows Flaherty’s recent success at the 2026 IMRO Radio Awards in October, where he won two Gold Awards for his documentaries Beauty or Beast and The Hidden Disability.

Shannon in Focus will explore the region’s remarkable history, featuring rare archive recordings of Brendan O’Regan, whose pioneering vision helped transform Shannon into an international centre for industry and investment.

Former Shannon Development CEO Kevin Thompstone will trace the region’s development, from its early industrial beginnings through the Celtic Tiger years and the challenges of economic recession.

The documentaries will also feature Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes, who will examine the Chamber’s role in supporting local enterprise, attracting investment and advocating for the region’s continued development.

At the heart of the series are 12 Shannon businesses, each sharing its own story of growth, innovation and future ambition.

The participating companies are Ei Electronics, Mincon, Atlantic Aviation Group, CAE Parc Aviation, Shannon Precision Engineering, Lufthansa Technik Turbine Shannon, Aerogen, ATC Group, Fine Grain Property, Clean Habit, International Aerospace Coatings (IAC) and Zimmer Biomet.

Speaking ahead of the series, Padraic Flaherty said:

“Shannon is one of Ireland’s greatest economic success stories, but I believe many people don’t fully appreciate the extraordinary work happening on our doorstep. We have businesses here developing and manufacturing products that are used in hospitals, homes, aircraft and industries around the world. We have family businesses that have grown into international success stories and global companies investing millions of euro in the region. What impressed me most throughout this project was the passion of the people involved. Every business has a different story, but they all share a belief in Shannon and its future. I wanted this series to celebrate those achievements while also recognising the vision and determination of the people who helped build Shannon into what it is today.

“My hope is that listeners will come away with a greater understanding of just how important Shannon is to County Clare and the wider Irish economy.”

Helen Downes, CEO of Shannon Chamber, said: “Shannon has played an extraordinary role in shaping Ireland’s economic history, pioneering ideas and initiatives that helped lay the foundations for the modern Irish economy. It’s a story of vision, innovation, ambition and, above all, people who were prepared to think differently and lead the way. That story, which continues today, deserves to be told. We’re delighted that this series, produced by Padraic Flaherty, will reinforce this message and ensure that the significance of what is happening in Shannon is fully appreciated.”

The series will highlight Shannon’s contribution to employment, technological development and international investment, while exploring the opportunities and challenges facing businesses in the years ahead.

Shannon in Focus will broadcast on Clare FM over three consecutive Wednesdays, November 11th, 18th and 25th, from 6pm to 7pm

To find out more, Clare FM’s Head of Opeartions, Padraic Flaherty and CEO of Shannon Chamber, Helen Downes joined Alan Morrissey on Tuesday’s Morning Focus.

Major Radio Documentary Series To Celebrate Shannon’s Success Story by Clare FM

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