University College Cork to Host Major Radio Conference Celebrating 100 Years of Irish Broadcasting

University College Cork to Host Major Radio Conference Celebrating 100 Years of Irish Broadcasting

Overview of the 100‑Year Celebration

On 29–30 January 2026, University College Cork (UCC) will stage a landmark event that marks a century of Irish radio. The two‑day conference, titled Broadcast to Podcast: 100 Years of Irish Radio, brings together academics, broadcasters, and industry leaders to examine the past, present, and future of radio in Ireland.

Key Highlights and Speakers

  • Opening remarks by Taoiseach Mícheál Martin, with representatives from Coimisiún na Meán and UCC.
  • Keynote address by Patricia Monahan, Director of Audio at RTÉ.
  • Panel discussions covering talk radio, music and language, women in radio, sports, and the future of broadcasting.
  • Special presentation on the RTÉ Audio Archives by Brid Dooley.
  • Launch of a special edition of the Irish Communications Review focused on 100 years of Irish radio.

Notable participants include Matt Cooper (Today FM), Sarah McInerney (IMRO award winner), John Creedon (IMRO Music Broadcaster), Doireann Ní Bhriain, and many others from RTÉ, 96FM, and local community stations.

How the Conference Benefits Broadcasting Professionals

Networking Opportunities

The event gathers a diverse group of stakeholders—from national broadcasters to community radio operators—providing a unique platform to build relationships, share best practices, and explore collaboration opportunities.

Learning from Industry Leaders

Sessions led by seasoned broadcasters and media scholars offer insights into evolving audience habits, digital transformation, and the role of radio in shaping Irish culture.

Practical Tips for Attendees

Preparing Your Agenda

  • Review the full agenda on the conference website and identify sessions that align with your interests.
  • Set up calendar reminders for key panels and networking breaks.
  • Download the conference app (if available) to receive real‑time updates.

Maximizing Your Experience

  • Arrive early to secure a seat in high‑profile sessions.
  • Engage with speakers during Q&A; prepare concise, thoughtful questions.
  • Use the event’s networking lounge to connect with peers and industry representatives.
  • Take notes on emerging trends and potential partnership ideas.

Registration and Logistics

Venue and Dates

The conference will be held at UCC’s main campus in Cork on 29–30 January 2026. The campus offers ample parking, accessible facilities, and a range of on‑campus dining options.

How to Register

To secure your place, visit the official conference page and complete the online registration form. Early‑bird pricing is available until 31 December 2025.

Register now for the 100‑Year Irish Radio Conference and join industry leaders in celebrating a century of broadcasting.

Take Action

Ready to make the most of this historic event? Register today and secure your spot. For more information about UCC’s media and broadcasting programs, visit UCC’s official website. If you’re interested in the future of Irish radio, download the conference agenda and start planning your attendance.

After the event, share your insights and experiences on social media or in the UCC community forums. Your perspective can help shape the next chapter of Irish broadcasting.