TV series looks at two local ferries
Two longstanding Cork ferry services will feature in a new TV series exploring the modes of travel that have been used to access islands in Ireland since the 1950s.
Kicking off on 15 October on TG4, ‘Ó Mhuir Go Tír’ is a four-part Irish language documentary series that dives deep into the dramatic and often dangerous sea journeys that have shaped island life through the decades.
Cork islands Cape Clear (Oileán Chléire) and Sherkin Island (Inis Arcáin) will feature throughout the four episodes which will air at 9.30pm every Wednesday for the next four weeks.
The series will also feature Arranmore and Rutland Islands in county Donegal, and Inisbofin, Inisheer, and Inishmore in county Galway.
In episode one, former shopkeeper and Sherkin Islander, Maureen O’Neill, recounts of the trials and tribulations of running an island shop as viewers learn all about how cargo and food supplies are brought to both Sherkin and Cape Clear.
Episode two, airing on 22 October, features parents and primary school children on Sherkin Island making the ten minute daily commute to the mainland for school. On Cape Clear, Róisín Ní Chonaill and Niamh Ní Dhrisceoil share their love of island life and their fears for the future of the island.
On 29 October, episode three invites viewers to join the Irish summer colleges travelling across to Cape Clear, Arranmore, and Inis Mór while taking a look back at the Irish colleges in the ‘70s, ‘80s, and ‘90s as former pupils, teachers, and boatmen share stories about that time.
In the final episode on 5 November, the McCann family reunite on Cape Clear for the June bank holiday weekend. Aisling and her young family enjoy their weekend and hear from Aisling's parents, Kevin and Jude, what it was like when they first moved from Liverpool to the island in the ‘90s.
Along the way, viewers will we hear from some familiar faces, including actress and Inis Mór native Fionnuala Ní Fhlaithearta, and renowned musician and singer Breanndán Ó Beaglaoich.
‘Ó Mhuir Go Tír’ will offer viewers a powerful look at the history, culture, and daily realities of life on Ireland’s offshore islands. Produced by HG Productions, the series highlights the resilience of island communities and the enduring connections between land, sea, and people.