“I am introducing five dedicated slots, from 3 to 5, for promoting Irish artists," Richards declared, "and in these five slots, literally any Irish artist whose song or whose track is good enough can get played… This is aimed at promoting new Irish artists.”

An important aspect of the initiative is that artists have to play their part, recording a Galway Bay ident to introduce tracks of theirs that are being supported by the station.

"A personal touch is needed if you want to communicate," Richards commented. "That's what radio is all about."

Richards pays tribute to the Galway Bay FM management team, with MD Keith Finnegan and Music Controller Padraig Flaherty, who have fully supported the new initiative.

The issue has come to a head in recent months with Hot Press highlighting the fact that records by international acts such as Kylie Minogue and REM are being treated as 'Irish' music by some stations because they were recorded in Irish studios.

“We’re taking the plunge”, says Richards. "What I’m hoping is that other presenters across the country, especially in big urban areas, will say ‘well, if they’re doing that, why can’t we do it?’ and create an effect that Irish radio gets the kick up the arse that it needs.”

For the full story, check out the latest edition of Hot Press - on sale today.