‘Moving West’ puts the spotlight on County Roscommon for TV programme
Áine Murphy and her family moved from Brussels to Boyle in March 2021. Áine is delighted with the warm welcome they received from the local community.
The final episode of Moving West, now in its third season, will put the spotlight on County Roscommon when it airs this evening Tuesday, November 19th at 7.30 p.m. on TG4.
Produced by Dundara Television & Media in collaboration with the Western Development Commission (WDC) and Roscommon County Council, and hosted by Mary Kennedy, Moving West showcases the vibrant lifestyle and opportunities in the west and northwest of Ireland. The series shares inspiring stories of individuals and families who have chosen to relocate to these regions, embracing a new and fulfilling way of life.
In the Roscommon episode, viewers will meet Áine Murphy and her family, who moved from Brussels to Boyle in March 2021. Áine, her husband, and their two children were warmly welcomed by the local community. They have since renovated a family home previously owned by her husband’s grandparents. Áine now works at the Boyle Family Resource Centre, a charity that provides essential services to the local community. "Moving West has been the best decision for us. If you are looking for a place where you can slow down, enjoy nature, and live a simpler lifestyle, then moving west is for you,” explains Áine.
“Everything we need is right on our doorstep—schools, sports facilities, shops, and beautiful scenic walks. We’ve been warmly welcomed into the community, and the proximity to places like Sligo, Carrick-on-Shannon, and Lough Key Forest Park is a huge benefit."
Éilish Holohan and her best friend Ruth Harbison moved to Boyle in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Éilish, originally from Dalkey, works as a Cleanup Animation Lead at Studio Meala, while Ruth, from Greystones, is a Lead 2D Animator on RTÉ’s preschool series Doodle Girl. Both women relocated to enjoy the peaceful countryside and the ability to work remotely in a creative field.
"Living here allows me to make some savings, something my friends in Dublin struggle with due to high rent. The peace, space, and beauty of the countryside make Roscommon an ideal place to live, while still having access to fantastic bars and cafés. I don’t think I’ll ever move back to Dublin,” says Ruth.
The episode also follows Fynn Hopper and his partner Elena Tenschert, who moved to Ireland from Hull, East Yorkshire, and Graz, Austria, respectively. They settled in North Roscommon, where they now run an eight-acre smallholding and have developed an additional 50 acres into a thriving agri-business. They sell organic pork, lamb, and beef directly to customers across Ireland and offer farm experiences, including social farming with adults with special needs. "We wanted to live somewhere with clean air, beautiful green surroundings, and a deeper connection to nature. Living in Roscommon has allowed us to pursue our dream of self-sufficiency, and we encourage others to take the plunge—don’t overthink it, just do it,” advises Elena.
The episode also features a visit to Nordson Medical, one of Boyle’s major employers, where Ciaran Sheerin, assembly and supply chain manager, shares insight into the job opportunities in the region. County Roscommon, while traditionally an agricultural area, has diversified in recent years, offering employment in sectors such as manufacturing, technology, and tourism.
Shane Tiernan Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council, who co-funded the episode, remarked: "We are proud to partner with the Moving West series, which highlights the incredible stories of those who have made Roscommon their home. Our county offers a fantastic quality of life, a strong sense of community, and exciting career opportunities in a range of industries. We hope this episode will inspire others to discover all that Roscommon has to offer as a place of choice for a richer life."
Allan Mulrooney, CEO of WDC, commented that “Roscommon is a perfect example of how the west and northwest of Ireland provide an ideal balance of lifestyle and opportunity. Season Three of Moving West allows us to showcase the stories of people who have found their place in Roscommon, from entrepreneurs to remote workers and agricultural innovators. The WDC is proud to support these communities, ensuring that those who move west are welcomed with open arms."
Mary Kennedy, presenter of Moving West, noted that “Roscommon’s unique mix of rural charm, community spirit, and modern opportunities makes it a truly special place. I’m thrilled to share the inspiring stories of those who have found a new home here, and I’m sure viewers will be captivated by the beauty and possibilities that Roscommon has to offer."
• Tune in to TG4 on November 19th at 7.30 p.m. for the season finale of Moving West.
