West Cork farmer to feature on episode of Ear to the Ground

A WEST Cork man and his partner will feature on an episode of television series Ear to the Ground that shadows farmers across the country.

John Kingston and Sonia Viridiana first locked eyes at a wedding in Mexico. They likely never imagined the introduction would lead to them settling down together on a quaint farm outside Dunmanway.

The programme, which is comprised of reports about rural and environmental issues, will follow the couple as they nurture goats and tend to chickens, while cultivating an array of vegetables.

Presenter Maeve Dineen will immerse herself in the couple’s day-to-day activities to gain an insight into their rural life.

The segment will also focus on the thriving enterprise they have carved out from their modest plot.

Sheep farmer Martin Galvin, who has bipolar disorder and lives in Leenane in Mayo, will also feature in the show.

The depths of his struggles were profound. However, equally distressing were his occasional peaks, which deeply concerned his family.

He spoke of the turning point, when his daughter stepped in.

This led to the revelation that Martin was grappling with bipolar disorder. Presenter Ella Mc Sweeney spent a day with Martin to shed light on the condition’s impact.

The episode concludes with a segment on whitehorn, a vital hedgerow species on farms and roadsides across the country. A recent shortage has compelled farmers to import this native plant, and that risks introducing diseases.

The programme investigates the issue in Carlow.

Ear to the Ground is to air on RTÉ One this Thursday at 7pm.

Viewers can catch a repeat of the show on Sunday, January 21 at 1.09pm.