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.
The annoucement comes after 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, 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.”
