Raidio na Gaeltachta broadens its horizons

The Irish rock industry has received another boost with the news that Raidio na Gaeltachta has lifted its ban on songs with English lyrics, and introduced a new service aimed at young Irish speakers.

Broadcasting daily from 9pm to 1am, Anocht FM – or “Tonight FM” to the Sassenachs among you – will retain the services of RnG stalwarts Aine Hensey and Cian O Ciobhain whose An Taobh Tuathail (Flipside) slot is currently celebrating its sixth birthday.

“This is going to bring the show to the next level,” says O Ciobhain. “For the last six years, the ban on English lyrics hasn’t deterred us from seeking out exciting music which, were it not for our show, might not have been played on national radio.”

Anocht FM’s arrival has been welcomed by Dan Oggly whose Friction PR company handles press here for the likes of The Frames, Damien Rice and Snow Patrol.

"They're really enthusiastic about championing Irish bands, both signed and unsigned, which is great for us and the industry in general," he states.

The launch took place last night in Donegal, with Kila’s Rónán Ó Snodaigh, Rossa Ó Snodaigh and Eoin Dillon, Colm Mac Con Iomaire from The Frames, Nina Hynes, John Spillane, Úna Ní Bhaoill and Belfast reggae merchants Bréag assisting with the ribbon-cutting.