Across the West and Northwest of Ireland, a significant transformation is underway. Communities once shaped by emigration are now experiencing renewed growth, as people choose to live, work and build futures across the region.
Now returning for its fourth season on TG4, Moving West continues to document this shift, telling the stories of individuals, families and entrepreneurs who are contributing to a vibrant and evolving Western Region.
Produced by Dundara Television and Media in partnership with the Western Development Commission and supported by the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, the series highlights the opportunities that exist across Galway, Mayo, Donegal, Sligo, Leitrim and Roscommon.
Presented by Mary Kennedy, the new season explores the personal and professional journeys of those who have chosen to relocate, from returning emigrants and growing families to innovators, remote workers and business founders. Their stories reflect a wider narrative of regional resilience, creativity and ambition.
Filmed across the six western counties, the series captures both the practical realities and emotional experiences of relocation. It showcases how communities are attracting diverse talent and fostering environments where people can thrive, professionally, culturally and socially.
At its core, Moving West aligns with the Western Development Commission’s goal of promoting balanced regional development, demonstrating how the region is emerging as a hub for innovation, sustainability and quality of life.
Themes explored in the series include remote working, entrepreneurship, sustainable living, cultural connection and the growing international interest in the West and Northwest of Ireland. The series also highlights the importance of the Irish language as a key cultural and economic asset, supporting its preservation while showcasing its role in vibrant, modern communities across the region.
Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Dara Calleary TD, said:
“Moving West provides a powerful insight into the opportunities that now exist across the western region. It highlights the innovation, enterprise and quality of life that make the west an increasingly attractive place to live and work. Programmes like this play an important role in showcasing the success of regional development policies and in encouraging more people to consider the west as a place where they can build their future.”
Allan Mulrooney, Chief Executive of the Western Development Commission, said:
“Moving West reflects a fundamental shift in how people view the West and Northwest of Ireland. Increasingly, it is recognised not only for its natural beauty and strong communities, but also for its economic potential, innovation and quality of life. Through the stories in this series, we see people actively choosing the west as a place where they can build meaningful careers, start businesses and raise families. For the WDC, balanced regional development is about creating the conditions for people and communities to thrive. This series brings that vision to life by showcasing the diversity, ambition and opportunity that now define the Western Region.”
Enda Grace of Dundara Television and Media said:
“From the beginning, our ambition with Moving West was to create a series that felt honest, cinematic and grounded in real life. We never wanted forced drama or overly polished storytelling. The strength of the programme has always been the people themselves and the openness with which they share their experiences of building a new life in the west. This season feels particularly special because it reflects a much broader picture of modern Ireland. Rather than focusing each episode on a single county, Series 4 moves across the region, weaving together stories from different communities and places in every programme. It gives viewers a stronger sense of the shared energy, creativity and momentum that now exists across the west as a whole.”
Presenter, Mary Kennedy said:
“Every story in Moving West is deeply personal, but together they tell a much bigger story about modern Ireland. People are looking for connection, balance and purpose, and the west offers all of that in abundance. It’s inspiring to meet those who have taken that step and to see the positive impact they are having on their communities.”
Visually, the new season continues to showcase the landscape and character of the region through rich cinematography, while maintaining a strong cultural identity with Irish language elements woven throughout.
Since its debut, Moving West has resonated strongly with audiences interested in lifestyle change, regional opportunity and reconnecting with place. The series has also received national recognition, including a Best Collaboration award at the 2026 Spider Awards.
The six-part series will air on TG4 from Tuesday 2 June at 7.30pm, with new episodes broadcast weekly.
