TG4's new Moving West series to focus on Mayo

The Western Development Commission (WDC) has announced the return of Moving West, now in its third season, airing on TG4 from Tuesday, October 15, at 7:30 p.m.

This season opens with a special focus on County Mayo, highlighting local stories of those who have chosen to make this beautiful part of Ireland their home.

Produced by Dundara Television & Media in collaboration with the WDC, and hosted by beloved Irish television presenter Mary Kennedy, Moving West continues to capture the heart and soul of life in the West and Northwest of Ireland.

Through heartfelt, real-life stories, the series highlights individuals and families who have relocated to this beautiful region to embrace a new way of life.

The first series of Moving West was produced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, capturing the surge in remote working and showcasing how the west of Ireland became an ideal destination for those seeking a new way of living.

Initially focused on the rise of flexible working, the series highlighted the region as a perfect escape from the fast-paced urban lifestyle.

Now, with its third season, Moving West has developed into a deeper exploration of the many reasons people move to or return to the West.

In the first episode, viewers are introduced to Dr. Lisa Guthrie from Ballina, who has embraced a dual life working as a Consultant in Emergency Medicine at Mayo University Hospital and flying with the Lincolnshire and Nottingham Air Ambulance in the UK.

Lisa and her husband Bernard, who runs a successful business in Ballina, share how Mayo offers their family a slower, more community-cantered lifestyle.

Also featured are Sean and Louise Burnett, who moved from the Highlands of Scotland to settle in Kilmovee.

The couple talks about how they found a welcoming community and a place they now proudly call home, thanks to the kindness of their neighbours.

“They cannot do enough for us and they will truly never know how grateful we are to them for the kindness they have shown us. I don’t think we will ever leave here! Life is amazing here. We have never been so happy.”

Mayo County Council, which co-funded the episode, is delighted to showcase Mayo's stunning landscapes, warm communities, and career prospects which take centre stage in this episode, offering a glimpse of what makes the county such a special place to live and work.

Kevin Kelly, chief executive, said, “Mayo has a unique and compelling offering for those that wish to live , work or do business in the county and provides an opportunity for an incredible quality of life underpinned by an unmatched natural environment, fantastic infrastructure and amenities and exciting career opportunities.

"We are delighted that the new series of Moving West will showcase all that the county has to offer”.

Allan Mulrooney, CEO of WDC, commented: "Our communities are defined by a rich mosaic of people and experiences that give the West of Ireland its unique character.

"Season Three of Moving West has been an incredible opportunity to showcase individuals working across some of the region's largest employers, from indigenous businesses to foreign direct investments, as well as the remarkable stories of cheese farmers, emergency consultants, and even those in the space industry.

"The people we've met aren’t just drawn to the beauty of the landscape, but to the welcoming communities and the careers that push them to thrive.

"The support we’ve received from both local communities and our partners over the years has made all of this possible, and we look forward to continuing our journey of promoting this vibrant region."

Mary Kennedy, presenter of Moving West, added: “I am delighted to see the way Moving West has developed over three seasons, appealing to growing audiences, different age groups: those contemplating a change of lifestyle and those who are simply interested in hearing about other people’s lives of innovation, possibility and a “can do” attitude.

"It’s always a joy for me to spend time in our beloved west of Ireland and to showcase this part of the country, rich in community, landscape and progression. I’m very proud to be part of the Moving West team and to be working with TG4 on this important and timely programme.”