Dublin, Cork, Limerick & Galway
Bay Broadcasting has announced the senior appointment of Dave Kelly as Group Programme Director, strengthening the group’s leadership team at a time of continued audience growth and expansion.
Kelly will oversee programming across Bay’s radio portfolio, including Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio, Radio Nova and Galway Bay FM. Kelly has been involved with Bay since 2021, primarily working with Radio Nova and Classic Hits Radio, a period during which both stations have delivered significant and sustained listenership growth. Prior to joining Bay, Kelly was one of Ireland’s most experienced radio
programmers, serving as Programme Director of FM104 and Q102 for almost two decades.
Speaking about the announcement, Kevin Branigan, CEO of Bay Broadcasting, said:“Dave is an outstanding programmer with an exceptional track record. He brings a strong, consistent and listener-focused approach to programming that delivers
results, and we are delighted to appoint him to the newly created role of Group Programme Director.”
Since 2021, Radio Nova has become the number one music radio station in Dublin, while Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio has grown to become the largest commercial radio service in the country outside the two national stations, Today FM and Newstalk.
Dave Kelly said: “I’m delighted to bring my 30 years’ programming experience to Bay Broadcasting and to work even more closely with the talented teams across Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio, Radio Nova and Galway Bay FM. I’m incredibly proud of the success we’ve achieved, particularly the remarkable ratings growth at Radio Nova and Classic Hits over the past four years. Galway Bay FM is an exciting addition to the Bay stable and I’m really looking forward to working with the team at their studios in Galway City.
With radio in Ireland attracting 3.5 million listeners every weekday, according to the latest JNLR figures, it’s an exciting timeto be part of this ever-evolving media landscape.”
Bay Broadcasting is the operator of a portfolio of premium Irish radio brands, including Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio, Galway Bay FM and Sunshine 106.8. The group employs approximately 90 experienced media professionals across its Dublin and Galway offices.
For further information or to speak to Dave Kelly or Kevin Branigan, please contact : Ann-Marie
Sheehan, Aspire PR & Marketing; T : +353872985569, E : annmarie@aspire-pr.com
Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio is turning up the volume on health and happiness with two exciting new launches designed to help the nation start 2026 right by feeling better, moving more and enjoying the journey along the way.
Building on the momentum of supporting the nationwide 40 Day Health Challenge for a second year, Ireland’s Classic Hits has launched a brand-new 40 Day Health Challenge Channel, available exclusively through the Classic Hits app. The multi-city station has also announced a nationwide listener roadshow that will give 200 people the chance to discover their metabolic age, meet trusted experts and take part in one of Ireland’s most engaging health initiatives. Together, these launches are designed to motivate, support and entertain listeners as they follow the 40 Day Health Challenge and take positive steps towards better physical and mental wellbeing, kickstarting their new year
A New Channel Dedicated to Feeling Good
Created specifically to support those taking part in the challenge — and anyone looking to move more — the new 40 Day Health Challenge Channel provides the perfect soundtrack for walking, running, exercising or simply feeling better day to day.
Ad-free and available exclusively within the Ireland’s Classic Hits app, the channel offers:
Reverse Your Age: Nationwide Listener Roadshow
To bring the 40 Day Health Challenge to life, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio and the 40 Day Health Challenge team have teamed up with Randox Health & Holland & Barret to give listeners the chance to find out their metabolic age through a free body composition scan.
Unlike your real age, your metabolic age can be improved. Last year, participants following the 40 Day Health Challenge reduced their metabolic age by up to 11 years.
Over the coming weeks, 200 listeners will win the chance to step onto the body composition scanner and meet the experts at live roadshow events in:
Each event will be hosted by Ireland’s Classic Hits’ Trina Mara, who throughout the 40 Day Challenge speaks daily on her show (10am–2pm) with experts and challengers about the remarkable journeys happening across the country.
Trina Mara, presenter of ‘Classic Hits at Work’, said: “I am genuinely so excited about this new channel. It’s great to be involved with the 40 Day Health Challenge for a second year, speaking with the experts and challengers about the inspiring journeys unfolding across the country and I can’t wait to share more of their stories. I’m also looking forward to meeting listeners face to face on the roadshow and cheer them on as they take that first step towards better health in 2026.”
Meet the Challengers
This year, listeners are also following the inspiring progress of three on-air challengers:
Their journeys are being shared daily on air, offering honesty, motivation and encouragement to listeners nationwide.
For the next four weeks, Ireland’s Classic Hits will be running competitions giving listeners the chance to join the roadshow, discover their metabolic age and take the first step towards better health.
Tune in to The Trina Mara Show, weekdays 10am–2pm, for updates, expert advice and your chance to take part.
The new 40 Day Health Challenge Channel: Music to move to and advice to live better - Your soundtrack to healthier habits. Available now within the Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio app via www.classichits.ie
Take Part, Feel Better by checking out: www.40dayhealthchallenge.ie. *Charges apply
The most recent JNLR radio ratings were released on November 6th 2025. The results are for the period of July 2024 to June 2025. Sunshine 106.8 is Dublin's #1 music station for 35+ adults.
Sunshine 106.8: #1 Music Station in Dublin for 35+ Adults (Share of listening / Market Share data 7a-7p M-F)
Sunshine 106.8, Dublin's Easy Place to Relax, reaches 125,000 listeners every day, 211,000 every week (and 266,000 every month!).
Sunshine 106.8's market share is 9.2% for the period 7a-7p (Mon-Fri) for the 35+ audience.
Sunshine 106.8 is ranked as the #1 music station in Dublin for 35+ Adults
in the 7am to 7pm (Mon-Fri) time period: (Share of listening / Market Share data)
PROFILE
Sunshine 106.8's relaxing music mix appeals to listeners of all ages in Dublin. Sunshine 106.8's weekly (reach) audience is spread across all ages, with particular strength in the 35-54 age group, and we're the market leading music station for female listeners.
Our Average Quarter Hour listening
The typical amount of listeners in any given 15 minute period between 7am and 7pm (Mon-Fri) is 23,000 listeners (and even higher at the weekend!)
For more details on Sunshine 106.8 listenership data or for on-air advertising opportunities, contact our commercial office or click here.
Source for all listenership data referred to on this page: JNLR IPSOS B&A 2025-3 (published November 6th 2025 for the period: Oct 24 to Sep 25).
Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio has held its highest ever market share at 6.5%, in the latest JNLR ratings. The 2025.3 JNLR, released on 06/11/2025 gives the station a commanding 6.5% market share across the Multicity area of Dublin, Cork, Limerick and Galway. The station now has 373,000 weekly and 207,000 daily listeners across the area.
Meanwhile, the station is now the #1 music radio station in the Multicity area in weekend market share.
Programme Director, Dave Kelly, said, “We’re very happy with the latest figures. We’ve held our all-time high market share in a very competitive space and that’s a result of the hard work we all put into the station and the unique position we hold as The Home of the 80s & 90s in Ireland”.
Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio broadcasts to eight of the most populated counties in Ireland – Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Kildare, Meath, Wicklow & Clare – on FM and nationwide via smart speaker and via the station’s smartphone apps.
Radio Nova is the #1 music radio station in Dublin, according to the the latest JNLR survey, with the station now holding a 9.2% market share in the competitive Dublin city and county area *. The station also has 268,000 weekly and 158,000 daily listeners in its wider franchise area of Dublin Commuter Belt **, according to the 2025.3 JNLR, released on 06/11/2025.
“We’re truly delighted with the latest figures. We’ve worked very hard to keep Nova unique in its music and presentation output and it’s gratifying to see that our listeners like what we’re doing”, says Nova CEO and Programme Director, Kevin Branigan.
The latest numbers point to a two-tier market in Dublin – with a ‘Top 3’ and a cluster of music stations on far lower market shares.
The latest results put clear distance between Nova and FM104, on 7.8%, while there a cluster of other stations – Spin 1038 (5,2%), Today FM (5.1%), 98FM (4.9%) and Q102 (4.4%) sit in the 4-5% area.
“What’s interesting is that we are seeing a clear top tier of music stations in Dublin now – Nova, Sunshine and FM104, with all of the others are in a 2nd level tier down around the 4% and early 5% area”, says Nova CEO and Programme Director, Kevin Branigan.
Dublin Market Share:
1. Nova: 9.2%
2. Sunshine:: 8.4%
3. FM104: 7.8%
4: Spin 5.2%
5: Today FM: 5.1%
6 98FM: 4.9%
7 Q102: 4.4%
8 Classic Hits 3.6%
9: 2FM: 3.3%
JNLR Ipsos/MRBI 2025.3, Dublin City & County, Market Share, Music Radio Stations.
Radio Nova broadcasts to Dublin city, county and commuter belt on FM, smart speaker and via its smartphone apps.
* JNLR Ipsos/MRBI 2025.3, Dublin City & County, Market Share,
** JNLR Ipsos/MRBI 2025.3, Dublin Commuter Belt, Daily & Weekly Listenership,
Bay Broadcasting, the Irish-owned radio group behind Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio and Sunshine 106.8, has today announced the completion of its acquisition of Galway Bay FM following receipt of approval from theCompetition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan.
The transaction, first announced in early June, sees Bay Broadcasting add Galway Bay FM to its growing portfolio, making it the second largest radio group in Ireland – and the largest Irish-owned radio group in the country.
Kevin Branigan, CEO, Bay Broadcasting, said: “Galway Bay FM is a terrific station with an outstanding team and a legacy that’s unmatched in Irish local radio. Its heritage as the voice of Galway is something we deeply respect and are proud to help sustain. As we welcome it into the Bay Broadcasting portfolio, we see huge opportunity to support the station’s growth and to ensure it continues to thrive as the leading radio broadcaster of the west of Ireland.”
As part of this new chapter, Bay Broadcasting has confirmed the appointments of Fionnuala Rabbitt as Chief Executive Officer and Keith Finnegan as Chairman of the Board.
Fionnuala Rabbitt, newly appointed CEO and former producer and digital media lead at Galway Bay FM, said: “It is truly special to be returning to Galway Bay FM, where my broadcasting career began, and indeed to Galway, my home city. After over a decade living and working in Donegal with Highland Radio, I’m thrilled to return with a fresh perspective and deep respect for the station’s unique place in the community. Galway Bay FM is part of the fabric of this region, and I look forward to working with the team to build on that heritage.”
The outgoing CEO, Cormac O’Halloran, stated that “he was delighted with the takeover and sees it as a very necessary step in the continued evolution of Galway Bay FM. He is also delighted with the choice of replacement CEO, Fionnuala Rabbitt, and thinks she will bring a vast amount of experience and knowledge of radio to the role, which is necessary for the next phase of development. He also stated it was a great pleasure working closely with the Team and together we have had great success over the last few years. Long may it continue.”
Returning to the station as Chairman of the Board, Keith Finnegan expressed his enthusiasm for the next chapter: “Galway Bay FM has always been close to my heart. I spent more than three decades working with the most talented professionals in the business, and I’m proud to take on the role of Chairman at such an exciting time for the station. I look forward to supporting the team and helping to shape the next chapter of Galway Bay FM’s success.”
Speaking on behalf of the departing shareholders of Galway Bay FM, Peter Allen, Chairman said, “Bay Broadcasting’s acquisition of Galway Bay FM marks an exciting new chapter for the station. From the outset, their commitment to Irish radio, understanding of local audiences, and proven track record made them the ideal partner to carry Galway Bay FM forward. The outgoing shareholders – many of whom have longstanding family ties to the station – are proud of what has been built over the past three decades and confident that Bay Broadcasting will continue to nurture and grow the station’s deep connection with Galway and the wider region.”
Bay Broadcasting Completes Acquisition of Galway Bay FM and Announces New Leadership Team
Bay Broadcasting, the Irish-owned radio group behind Radio Nova, Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio and Sunshine 106.8, has today announced the completion of its acquisition of Galway Bay FM following receipt of approval from the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) and the Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport, Patrick O'Donovan.
The transaction, first announced in early June, sees Bay Broadcasting add Galway Bay FM to its growing portfolio, making it the second largest radio group in Ireland – and the largest Irish-owned radio group in the country.
Kevin Branigan, CEO, Bay Broadcasting, said: “Galway Bay FM is a terrific station with an outstanding team and a legacy that’s unmatched in Irish local radio. Its heritage as the voice of Galway is something we deeply respect and are proud to help sustain. As we welcome it into the Bay Broadcasting portfolio, we see huge opportunity to support the station’s growth and to ensure it continues to thrive as the leading radio broadcaster of the west of Ireland.”
Founded in 1989 as Radio West before rebranding as Galway Bay FM in 1993, the station has been a cornerstone of broadcasting in the west of Ireland for more than three decades. With a weekly listenership of 132,000, it is recognised as one of Ireland’s most respected and trusted local radio stations.
As part of this new chapter, Bay Broadcasting has confirmed the appointments of Fionnuala Rabbitt as Chief Executive Officer and Keith Finnegan as Chairman of the Board. Fionnuala Rabbitt, newly appointed CEO and former producer and digital media lead at Galway Bay FM, said: “It is truly special to be returning to Galway Bay FM, where my broadcasting career began, and indeed to Galway, my home city. After over a decade living and working in Donegal with Highland Radio, I’m thrilled to return with a fresh perspective and deep respect for the station’s unique place in the community. Galway Bay FM is part of the fabric of this region, and I look forward to working with the team to build on that heritage.”
The outgoing CEO, Cormac O’Halloran, stated that “he was delighted with the takeover and sees it as a very necessary step in the continued evolution of Galway Bay FM. He is also delighted with the choice of replacement CEO, Fionnuala Rabbitt, and thinks she will bring a vast amount of experience and knowledge of radio to the role, which is necessary for the next phase of development. He also stated it was a great pleasure working closely with the Team and together we have had great success over the last few years. Long may it continue.”
Returning to the station as Chairman of the Board, Keith Finnegan expressed his enthusiasm for the next chapter: “Galway Bay FM has always been close to my heart. I spent more than three decades working with the most talented professionals in the business, and I’m proud to take on the role of Chairman at such an exciting time for the station. I look forward to supporting the team and helping to shape the next chapter of Galway Bay FM’s success.”
Speaking on behalf of the departing shareholders of Galway Bay FM, Peter Allen, Chairman said, “Bay Broadcasting’s acquisition of Galway Bay FM marks an exciting new chapter for the station. From the outset, their commitment to Irish radio, understanding of local audiences, and proven track record made them the ideal partner to carry Galway Bay FM forward. The outgoing shareholders – many of whom have longstanding family ties to the station – are proud of what has been built over the past three decades and confident that Bay Broadcasting will continue to nurture and grow the station’s deep connection with Galway and the wider region.”
ENDS
For further information, imagery or to arrange interviews with Kevin Branigan, Fionnuala Rabbitt or Keith Finnegan, please contact: Ann-Marie Sheehan, Aspire PR & Marketing, T: +353 87 298 5569 | E: annmarie@aspire-pr.com
Editors’ Notes
About Fionnuala Rabbitt
Fionnuala Rabbitt MBA began her career in Galway, joining Galway Bay FM in 2004 as a researcher on The Keith Finnegan Show. She progressed to producer and then Digital Media Administrator, before becoming CEO of Highland Radio in Donegal in 2015. She has also served as Chair of Learning Waves Skillnet and sits on the boards of IBI, Learning Waves, Radiocentre Ireland and IRS+.
About Keith Finnegan
Keith Finnegan, a beloved local broadcaster, served as CEO of Galway Bay FM from 1991 to 2022 and hosted the station’s flagship morning show for over 30 years. A proud Galwegian and passionate promoter of the city, he played a leading role in the Galway Sister Cities programme and represented Galway internationally, including at the White House and St. Patrick’s Day parades in the US.
About Bay Broadcasting
Bay Broadcasting is a privately-owned Irish media company co-founded by Mike Ormonde and Kevin Branigan. It operates Dublin’s leading music radio stations – Radio Nova and Sunshine 106.8 – along with Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio, which broadcasts to Dublin, Cork, Limerick &Galway. With the addition of Galway Bay FM, Bay Broadcasting now reaches a total audience of over 810,000 listeners weekly and employs a team of approximately 85.
Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio has appointed Nicki Manley as its new Deputy Programme Director.
Originally from Knocklyon, now residing in Rathgar, Nicki joined Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio in 2023, presenting Sunday mornings before expanding to both Saturday and Sunday Breakfast. In 2024, she won bronze for Newcomer of the Year at the IMRO Radio Awards.
Before moving into broadcasting full-time, Nicki built a successful career in Human Resources, bringing with her valuable leadership and organisational experience which she will now apply to her work in radio. Nicki will continue to present the station’s Weekend Breakfast show alongside her new role.
Nicki Manley said: “I’m thrilled to take on this new role. Radio has always been a passion of mine and I’m looking forward to using my experience, both on air and in the world of HR, to support the team, to continue developing the strong programming that Ireland’s Classic Hits Radio is known for.”
Kevin Branigan, CEO of Bay Broadcasting, added: “Nicki has proven herself to be a talented and dedicated broadcaster. She is the ideal fit for this role and will bring strong ideas and leadership to our programming team while continuing to engage listeners every weekend.”
Bay Broadcasting is set to make history with the launch of Energy Dance, Ireland’s first fully-licensed dance radio station on DAB
The brand-new, 24-hour station will broadcast from Bay’s headquarters at Castleforbes House in Dublin, delivering non-stop club classics from the early 1990s right up to today’s biggest anthems. Aimed at listeners aged 35–64, Energy Dance will initially serve the Greater Dublin area before rolling out nationwide in line with the expansion of DAB across Ireland.
Energy Dance builds on Bay Broadcasting’s pioneering history. Its founders were part of the original pirate dance stations of the 1990s, including NSR Radio and KISS 103. Now, with the launch of Energy Dance, that spirit is being carried forward into the licensed digital era.
At launch, Energy Dance will feature wall-to-wall club classics, with live presenter-led programmes to follow in the coming months. The station will be available on DAB, smart speakers, online at EnergyDance.ie, and via radio aggregator sites.
Kevin Branigan, CEO of Bay Broadcasting, said: “With Energy Dance, we’re breaking new ground once again in Irish broadcasting. This is the first licensed dance music station on DAB in Ireland, and it will deliver a constant soundtrack of high-energy anthems to an audience that grew up with this music. Following our recent acquisition of Galway Bay FM, the launch of Energy Dance underlines Bay’s position as one of the most progressive and innovative radio groups in Ireland today.”
Bay Broadcasting already operates Radio Nova, Classic Hits Radio, Sunshine 106.8, and, most recently, Galway Bay FM. Its digital portfolio includes Nova Classic Rock, Classic Hits 80s, Sunshine Soul, Nova 80s, and Nova Chill. The arrival of Energy Dance strengthens this line-up and builds on Bay’s track record of experimentation through the Fáilte DAB trial platform.