Cyberchondria the fear of illness that is worsened by online searching is a growing problem.  While the internet is a useful tool, not everything we read online is reliable especially when it comes to our health. So, how can we strike a balance? We discussed all with Dr. Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin. 

Gerry Hutch was being questioned by Spanish police on last night as part of an international investigation, into alleged money-laundering, that resulted in his Dublin home also being searched. We get the latest on this with Conor Lally, Security and Crime Editor with The Irish Times.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland has confirmed that some toll rates for motorways and the Dublin Port Tunnel will increase from January 1st. We get reaction to these increases with Eugene Drennan, spokesman's for the Irish Road Haulage Association. 

The Dáil voted last night to accept an Oireachtas report recommending assisted dying, paving the way for full legislation.  Newstalk’s Political Correspondent Seán Defoe was covering Dáil proceedings last night and explained what happened during the voting. Also speaking to Shane this morning was Michael Healy Rae, Former Chairman of Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying and Independent TD for County Kerry.

Two new average speed camera systems to go live in Cavan and Mayo this weekend. Justice Minister Helen McEntee tell us more about the new systems.

The Dublin city marathon takes place this Sunday and whether you're a seasoned or first-time runner preparation is key. We get top tips for runners from John Belton Owner of no.17 personal training and human performance and wellness coach.

"I want all women who have been raped to say: Madame Pelicot did it, I can too. I don't want them to be ashamed any longer," said Gisèle Pelicot, whose husband is on trial for drugging and raping her and inviting other men to do the same. Nabila Ramdan, French Journalist and Author of ‘Fixing France: How to Repair a Broken Republic spoke to Ciara this morning. 

‘Gen Z are terrible at customer service and it’s killing the high street’. That’s the view of Freelance Journalist, Rhiannon Picton-James who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

In exactly two weeks' time, Americans will vote for their 47th US President. But who is topping the polls? Shane asked Chris Jackson, IPSOS pollster.

The leaders of the coalition met at Government buildings last night to thrash out a date for the election. We get the latest from  Newstalk’s Political Correspondent Sean Defoe.

Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 2.2% in the first quarter of 2024. That's according to a new report from the Environmental Protection Agency.  We discuss the report findings with Mary Frances Rochford, Programme Manager in the EPA’s Climate Change Programme.

Government is to launch the Dublin City Taskforce Report in the GPO today. We speak to Independent Chair of Dublin City Taskforce and CEO of An Post, David McRedmond.   

Primary schools are in crisis with almost 1,000 vacancies across the country, according to a new survey. To discuss this crisis further was Primary school principal and host of 'If I were the Minister for Education' Podcast Simon Lewis.

“Subscription traps” will now be a thing of the past both in Europe and the US as the FTC has followed the EU example of making it easier for consumers to leave services. We get the details from Newstalk's Tech Correspondent Jess Kelly.

Health experts have called for Ozempic to be more affordable for all to combat obesity. We discuss this with Professor Donal OShea, HSE lead for Obesity.

More than 29,000 homes and businesses remained without power last night in the wake of Storm Ashley as gusts of wind reached up to 130km per hour. Get discuss the aftermath of the storm around the country with Ailish Rohan, Head of Corporate Services at Galway City Council, Laura Harmon, Cork City Councillor and Labour Dáil Candidate for Cork South Central. Also from Mayo we heard from Elizabeth McManamon, from the Grainne Uaile Bar and Restaurant in Newport, County Mayo. 

Have you noticed new films getting a shorter theatrical window of just 2 weeks, and then straight to a streaming platform? Will this kill off cinema, with many of us waiting for the film to drop online, or do you still love the magic of going to the pictures?  Henry McKean visited the Omniplex in Rathmines Dublin and met film lovers and the industry.  

Taoiseach Simon Harris has said he expects the general election to be this year.  The Fine Gael leader will meet today with his Coalition leaders, Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman. We speak to Fionnan Sheahan, Ireland Editor with the Irish Independent. 

More than 29,000 homes and businesses remained without power last night in the wake of Storm Ashley as gusts of wind reached up to 130km per hour. To discuss what the aftermath of the storm around the country with Liz Walsh, Meteorologist and Forecaster from Met Eireann. Also joining us from Salthill, Galway is Newstalk Reporter, Andrew Lowth and Brian Tapley, ESB Networks Engineer.

Irish Book Week 2024 kicks off tomorrow. We hear all about Irish Book Week with Felicity Hayes McCoy, Author of The Booksellers Gift and Ambassador for Irish Book Week 2024. 

Last Monday, Galway City Council unanimously voted to ban Netanyahu and all members of the Israeli Government from the city. Joining us now to explain why was former Galway Mayor and Independent Councillor Mike Cubbard. 

Israel confirmed that Hamas’s top leader Yahya Sinwar was killed in a military operation in Gaza yesterday. We get the latest on this with Fawaz Gerges, Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science.

Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohue joined Newstalk Breakfast to talk about the passing of the Finance Bill.

A “jet-setter” tax on Europe’s frequent flyers could slow global heating and raise €64bn a year at no extra cost to most people. That is according to a new study by New Economics Foundation.  Ciara discuss this idea further with Finlay Asher an aerospace engineer and co-founder of Safe Landing, which is a campaign group made up of aviation workers pushing the industry to act in line with climate science. 

New research from Cybersafe kids has found that more than one in four 8- to 14-year-olds struggle to switch off games and apps. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Alex Cooney, CEO of Cyber Safe Kids.

Menopause is hidden and taboo in the workplace . That is according to new research released today by the University of Galway and University College Cork. We discuss with  Dr Maeve O’Sullivan, Assistant professor of Human Resource Management and Decent Work at University of Galway.

Met Éireann has issued a weather advisory for the entire country and warned of “exceptionally high supermoon spring tides” and a possibility of flooding in coastal areas. We get more information on this advisory with Matthew Martin, Forecaster with Met Eireann.

A new scheme launches today allowing people donate plastic bottles and cans for others to return.   The Bin Surround Programme is being announced by Dublin City Council and Re-turn. We get the details of this new scheme with  Barry Woods from waste management with Dublin City Council. 

Failing to address the harms of pornography is endangering young women, according to new research commissioned by Womens Aid and funded by Community Foundation Ireland. We discuss these research findings with Denise Charlton Chief Executive Community Foundation Ireland and former Chief Executive of Womens Aid.

Former One Direction singer Liam Payne has died at the age of 31 after falling from the third floor of the Buenos Aires hotel he was staying in. We get the latest on this news this morning with Henri Riley, reporter with LBC Radio London.  

Over a decade in the making, legislation to regulate the gambling industry in Ireland passed through the Oireachtas last night. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was James Browne, Junior Justice Minister. 

The final report on the Assisted Dying Bill will be discussed in the Dáil this evening, To discuss this ahead of the debate this evening was  Consultant Liaison Psychiatrist Beaumount Hospital and member of the college of psychiatrists of Ireland Siobhan McHale and Kildare GP & assistant adjuvant professor in public health and primary care at Trinity College Dublin Dr Brendan O’Shea.

How common is it for parents to have a favourite child and how can parents address it? Jen Hogan, Journalist and Columnist with The Irish Times has been writing about this parenting taboo and joined us this morning on the show.

Cost cutting in the hospitality industry has led to hotel breakfast standards slipping. We ask Georgina Campbell, Founder of The Food and Hospitality Guide. 

A new report urges the Irish government to get gas boilers, fireplaces and chimneys out of homes as soon as possible. With us to discuss this recommendation is the report Co-Author Dr Michael Keary.

Parents have been warned to apply to multiple secondary schools for their children as the pressure on places reaches boiling point. We hear from  Paul Crone Director of the National Association of Principals and Deputies.

Sinn Féin accused of ‘culture of secrecy and cover-up’ over failure to reveal reasons behind Niall Ó Donnghaile’s resignation. Shane spoke to Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin’s Deputy Leader.  

Don't fear CPR in cardiac arrest cases ,that's the message from the Irish Heart Foundation as they mark World Restart a Heart Day. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast Brigid Sinnot, Resuscitation Manager at the Irish Heart Foundation.

The debate on the Finance Bill 2024 begins in the Dáil today. We discuss what this day will bring with Minister for Finance, Jack Chambers. 

A scam designed to steal sensitive financial data from motorists  using bogus QR codes on parking meters has been identified in Dublin and Wicklow. We get the details on this with Adrian Weckler, Technology Editor with The Irish Independent.

It is National maths week and we want to know why so many people shy away from mathematics in adulthood. We ask Niamh O’Meara, Associate Professor in Maths Education and Deputy Director of EPISTEM.

The Dublin City Taskforce has proposed the GPO on O’Connell Street is redeveloped into a major public building, including a new home for RTÉ, in plans being brought to Cabinet today. We get reaction to this with Róisín Murphy is an architect and conservation activist.

The US Presidential election is three weeks from today. Shane spoke to Amy Tarkanian, Former Nevada Republican State Chairwoman and Republican Strategist. 

The Sports Action Plan being brought to cabinet today intends to examine how suitable school uniforms are for encouraging girls to participate in sport? We discuss with Méabh De Búrca, Former Ireland Player and Pundit.

Lebanon says at least 21 have been killed in Israeli air strike in the north of the country. We get the latest on the situation there with Justin Sahlani, Freelance Journalist in Beirut.

Increased minimum wage and pension auto-enrolment have made costs too high, according to restaurant and bar owners protesting outside Leinster House today. Speaking to Shane this morning was Pat Crotty, CEO of The Vintners Federation of Ireland.

From tax refunds to missed deliveries, the scammers are out in force at the moment sending text messages to unsuspecting punters. How do you know if a text is a scam or not and what should you do if you fall for one? To explain all we heard from Newstalk’s Tech Correspondent, Jess Kelly.

Sinn Féin TD and Chair of the Public Accounts Committee, Brian Stanley announced his resignation from the party this weekend following an internal inquiry into the Laois-Offaly TD. Shane was joined on the show by Sinn Féin Leader, Mary Lou McDonald.

The Government plans to invest about 1 billion Euro on Greenways by 2040, but what benefits do they make for towns? We discuss with Kieran Kelly From Greenways Ireland.

The Union of Students Ireland general election manifesto calls for the next government to introduce a strategic plan to address, among many things, the housing crisis affecting students. We discuss this with Union of Students Ireland President, Chris Clifford. 

Starting this week, Fórsa is balloting 30,000 health workers for industrial action. We asked why they are holding these ballots with Ashley Connolly, Fórsa National Secretary, Head of the Health and Welfare Division.

Israeli tanks forcibly entered a UN base in southern Lebanon, according to UNIFIL. We get the latest with Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent.   

People have taken to BuzzFeed to tell their stories of ‘The one that got away’  But, how common is it? We ask Mairead Loughman, Matchmaker, Founder of Love HQ and podcast host of ‘Would Like To Meet’.

There was a dazzling display of pink and green visible from the sky last night as the Northern Lights made a spectacularly rare appearance across the country. Just what are the Northern Lights? Alan O’Reilly from Carlow Weather explains. 

At least 22 people were killed and over 117 were injured in Israeli strikes on Beirut last night. We get the latest on the situation there with  Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. We will see Irish peacekeepers to pull out of the area? We discuss with Declan Power, Security Analyst.

Ireland needs to place a stronger focus on biodiversity conservation and restoration in the fight against climate change. We discuss with Climate Change Advisory Council Member Professor Yvonne Buckley. 

Dublin is officially becoming a breastfeeding-friendly city. Earlier this week, the City Council unanimously agreed on the motion put forward by Hazel Chu Our reporter, Josh Crosbie has been speaking to those welcoming the decision. 

Almost €25 billion worth of cashless payments are made every year, according to a new report from the Banking and Payments Federation. We ask does cash remain king with Independent TD Mattie McGrath and Founder of Money Doctors.ie John Lowe.

Rapper Sean Combs made his first appearance before a New York court yesterday in preparation for his trial on sex trafficking charges. We get the latest from  New York-based Journalist Harriet Alexander who was at the hearing.

Two decades is too long to wait to fix Ireland’s deficient wastewater treatment plants. That is according to a new report from the Environmental protection agency. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Noel Byrne the EPA Programme Manager. 

The public is being encouraged to dig out unwanted electronics and cables which could contain valuable metals. We get the details from CEO of WEEE Ireland Leo Donovan.

The Dáil has passed the Landmark Planning and Development Bill with 72 TDs voting in favour of the legislation and 60 opposing it. We speak to Sinn Fein’s Housing Spokesperson Eoin O’Broin. 

Signs of English placenames across Donegal have been spraypainted, and local Councillors warn this will destroy tourism in the area.  Trinity Student Union’s Oifigeach na Gaeilge Pádraig Mac Brádaigh, however, said it’s the Irish language that’s being destroyed. Pádraig explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland Annual Conference is taking place this week. One of those speaking at the conference is Bridget Smith City Architect for the City of Sydney who leads the Sustainable Sydney 2030 to 2050 programme. Bridget spoke to Jonathan on the show this morning.

Several Senators used their speaking time yesterday afternoon to declare they are not Russian spies.  Fianna Fail Senator Timmy Dooley, was the first to publicly declare that he was not involved with Russian espionage and he spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

As Hurricane Milton has made landfall, we speak to Dr Athena Masson, Meteorologist and Hurricane Specialist. 

The public health shortage has resulted in many infants not receiving basic health checks leaving new parents particularly vulnerable.  Former reality star and host of ‘Was Your Ma On Telly’ Podcast Kelly Donegan is one of those parents and Kelly told us about her experience to Newstalk's Breakfast.

Hundreds of services on some of Cork’s busiest bus routes are set to be reduced. We get reaction to this with Cllr John Maher, Labour Candidate for Cork North Central.

Hurricane Milton is set to be the worst storm to hit Florida in 100 years, with residents warned by officials to flee "or die". We asked how bad is this storm with Hurricane specialist Dr Athena Masson.

Many parents struggle with the dos and don’ts of pocket money. We get some advice for parents with Dr Richard Hogan, Family Psychotherapist and author  of the book Home Is Where The Start Is. 

Mary Lou McDonald spoke to the Pat Kenny Show yesterday about the recent scandal involving former party members giving work references for an ex-colleague being investigated for child sex offences. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was former member of Sinn Féin and columnist Máiría Cahill.

The RSA’s annual international conference takes place today and the theme this year is Distracted Driving. We discuss the theme of the conference with Dominic Brophy, Director of The Professional Driving Instructors Association.

Ireland needs a system like the UK’s NHS. That’s the call from People Before Profit TD Gino Kenny who is a member of the Oireachtas Health Committee. Gino spoke to Newstalk Breakfast to discuss further.

More than 50 Irish citizens and their dependents have evacuated Lebanon in recent days as violence escalates. Maeve Murphy, Head of the UN Refugee Agency Sub-Office in North Lebanon is still there supporting refugees  and Mary spoke to us on the show this morning.

Angry business owners in Bantry will contact Cork County Council today to demand a commercial rates waiver, following a pummeling from the torrential rain over the weekend that left more than 40 premises flooded. We speak to Cllr Danny Collins from Independent Ireland. 

The Taoiseach said yesterday he “wasn’t surprised” by allegations that Russian intelligence recruited an Irish politician as a spy. To discuss why that might be is a former deputy of Military Intelligence Michael Murphy.

A pub in Cornwall has started charging customers extra for large amounts of food they do not finish from an all you can eat roast dinner buffet. Darina Allen ,Chef, Author and founder of Ballymaloe Cookery School gave us her reaction. 

From today Security Guards will be deployed as part of a new 20-week pilot programme aimed at enhancing security across the Dublin Bus network. We speak to Fianna Fáil Senator Mary Fitzpatrick is based in Dublin City.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, marking one of the deadliest days in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in recent decades. We hear from Eylon Levy, Former Israeli Government Spokesperson.  

Today marks the beginning of Irish Road Safety Week. Motorists and pedestrians are being reminded to take precautions and be mindful of others using the roads. Recently on the programme, there was a call for more ‘black-box’ styled devices to be fitted in cars to monitor driver behaviour. Our reporter, Josh Crosbie has been looking into this.

Ireland should have built 200,000 homes this year to match the UK’s population, according to a new report by MyHome.ie. We get reaction to these findings with Property District CEO Carol Tallon.

On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched a large-scale attack on Israel, marking one of the deadliest days in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in recent decades. Shane spoke to Dr Jilan Abdalmajid, Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland. 

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and the Irish Cancer society is launching their Big Pink Breakfast initiative urging people to be breast aware and remind people that breast cancer can affect anyone.   Joining Ciara and Shane this morning was Dr Mariana Cervantes, Dr in Immunology and now a stage three breast cancer patient, Sonya Carr, Cancer Awareness Co-Ordinator Irish Cancer Society and Katie Browne, breast cancer survivor.   

Over a million people have been displaced in Lebanon since the beginning of Israeli strikes. We get the latest on the situation there with Sherzada Khan is the Concern Worldwide Country Director leading the teams in Lebanon. 

Why do the mass killers of the fossil fuel industry walk free while the heroes trying to stop them are imprisoned? That’s the view of Environmental Activist George Monbiot who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

The Swedes are calling time on begging should we follow suit?  Newstalk Reporter Sarah Madden reports for us on this.

Ahead of Irish Road Safety Awareness week, MCL insurance is calling for all new drivers to have a black box in their car to reduce the crash rate. We discuss with Gary McClarty, director of MCL Insurance.

Mary O'Rourke, a towering figure in Irish politics and a long-serving Fianna Fáil TD, has passed away at the age of 87. We remember her with Conor Lenihan, Former Fianna Fail Minister and Mary’s Nephew.

Experts are predicting that long lost species will be brought back from the dead by 2028. Scientists in Texas are using gene-editing technology to bring back dodos, Tasmanian tigers and woolly mammoths. To discuss further we spoke to Rodger Highfield, Science Director of the Science Museum London.

As the mornings get darker and colder, the temptation to hit the snooze button and stay in bed a little longer becomes even more appealing. But is that snooze button a hindrance or help? We asked Tom Coleman, Sleep Expert and Health Scientist.  

Progress, economic prosperity, and health are all at risk unless Ireland improves its  environmental action – that’s according to the Environmental protection agency’s State of the Environment report. We discussed the findings with the EPA Programme Manager and is one of the Editor’s of the report Andy Fanning.  

Minister Helen McEntee will today announce €9 million in funding for up to 100 new speed cameras to enhance road safety. Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae calls it a waste of money and he explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

Six killed in Israeli airstrike on medical centre in central Beirut.We get the latest on the tensions in the Middle East with Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent along with Declan Power, Defense and Security Expert.

The Government will invest €9 million to prevent phone use in schools, but how else can you prepare children for the digital world?  We discuss with CyberSafe Kids CEO Alex Cooney.

By-laws to restrict busking in Limerick City were blocked by Fine Gael Councillor Olivia O’Sullivan. Olivia explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.  

Public health workers will begin a series of protests today as the staff shortages reaches a boiling point. We speak to Damian Ginley SIPTU’s Health Sector Organiser.

Research in DCU found that, almost a quatre of parents believed their chosen godparents weren’t religious at the time of baptism. Should atheists take on the role of godparent?   We discussed with Sinead Ryan, Presenter of The Home Show on Newstalk and Consumer Journalist with the Irish Independent.

Now that we’ve all had time to process Budget 2025, we’re joined by Taoiseach Simon Harris.

The teenagers of today are nicer than past generations at least according to comedian Julie Jay who spoke to Ciara this morning.

Deepfakes and hacktivists are just some of cyber problems to expect in future elections. We discuss this with Righard Zwienenberg is a Senior Researcher at ESET, a digital security company. 

Budget 2025 was a “giveaway on steroids”, according to opposition parties. Speaking to Shane in studio this morning with reaction to Budget 25 was Social Democrats Leader Holly Cairns.

The Middle East braces for further escalation after Iran missile attack, as the IDF launches strikes on Beirut. We get the latest with Nada Atallah, Beirut Correspondent with The National Newspaper.

The legendary Jackie Lennox chipper in Cork, widely regarded as an institution in the city is set to close after more than 70-years in business. We got reaction from Esther McCarthy, Lifestyle Editor and Saturday Weekend Magazine Columnist with The Irish Examiner.

The Israeli Defence Forces have launched a ‘targeted’ ground operation in Lebanon. We get the latest from Nada Atallah, Middle East Correspondent with The National Newspaper in Beirut.

Electric vehicle drivers are more likely to cause a road crash, according to new research from the University of Limerick.  Dr Barry Sheehan, researcher in Lero Research Centre for Software in Ireland and the Kemmy Business school was an author of the study and Barry discussed the findings.

XL Bullies will be banned in Ireland on a phased basis from today – but is that the right decision?  We discuss with is Ian O Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent and Vet Pete Wedderburn.

The countdown to Budget 2025 is on. We hear from different sectors ahead of Budget 2025. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was IBEC's Director of Policy and Public Affairs Fergal O’Brien, Michael O’Flynn of the O’Flynn Construction Group and Early Childhood Ireland’s Policy Director Frances Byrne.

“Road to 2030” is the theme of this year’s Irish Solar Energy conference. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was UCC Lecturer in Clean Energy Paul Deane and he explained what the road to 2030 looks like. 

Israel has launched a ground offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon with air strikes intensifying. Ciara spoke to Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent to get the latest on the situation there.

Budget 2025 will be announced at 1 o’clock today. What will be on the cards? We discuss with Hugh O’Connell, Political Editor with the Sunday Times.

Traditional church weddings are declining amid the rise of non-religious ceremonies or weddings, that’s according to a new report from the Iona Institute   Wedding Planner, Tara Fay joined Newstalk breakfast to discuss..

Last week we heard about the benefits of buying a refurbished phone, but is the same true for laptops??   Newstalk’s Tech Correspondent, Jess Kelly joined us once again… 

Israel has said it bombed Houthi targets in Yemen in response to missiles fired by the Iran-aligned militants  Joining Newstalk breakfast to discuss this further development was Sky’s Middle East Correspondent Alistair Bunkall 

Budget 2025 is coming tomorrow, and many are expecting a “giveaway” budget – but is that the wisest move?     With me to discuss is Enterprise Minister Peter Burke and Public Affairs Consultant and Irish Times columnist Gerard Howlin 

A man found guilty of sexual assault was awarded €5,000 for “unfair dismissal” after his employers discovered his conviction.    Joining Newstalk breakfast to discuss this shocking case was barrister and Sunday Times columnist Brenda Power.

The severe shortage of second-hand homes hitting the market has pushed prices upwards – that's according to the latest Daft.ie House Price Report   Ronan Lyons, Economist at Trinity College Dublin & author of the report spoke to Newstalk breakfast this morning.

Multiple power outages have been reported across the south and east of Ireland due to a Status Orange rain warning.    Alan O’Reilly, Carlow Weather has the latest.

With Budget 2025 set to be announced tomorrow morning - what can we expect?    I’m joined by Niall Conroy, Senior Economist at the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council.   

Israel rejected a push by allies for a 21-day ceasefire in Lebanon and vowed to keep fighting Hezbollah militants "until victory", ahead of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's expected address to the UN General Assembly. We an analysis of the situation in the Middle East with Justin Salhani, Freelance Journalist in Beirut and also with Defence Expert at the University of Bath, former NATO analyst, Patrick Bury.

Hurricane Helene made a historic landfall as the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend. We speak to Dr Athena Masson, Meteorologist and Hurricane specialist.

 Labour Senator, Marie Sherlock believes the time has come for a comprehensive overhaul of how waste is managed across Dublin and Marie explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

Six Dublin City schools are launching a new programme to prevent anti-social behaviour in later life.  To explain how this works is the programme’s founder, Leslee Udwin from Think Equal. 

One driver was arrested seven times by gardaí on suspicion of driving while intoxicated that's according to the 2023 annual report from the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.  We speak to Geraldine Herbert, Motoring Editor with the Sunday Independent.

Hurricane Helene made a historic landfall as the strongest hurricane on record to slam into Florida’s Big Bend. We get the latest on this with Jacqui Goddard, US correspondent from the Times of London. 

‘Take a Minute Before You Bin It’, a new campaign by MyWaste which aims to tackle the disconnect between our good intentions and actual binning habits. We get the details from Dr. Joanne Rourke, spokesperson from MyWaste. 

Today the Ombudsman for Children’s Office is calling for fair and equitable access for all students to Transition Year. For more on this we heard from Eric Nelligan, Teacher, assistant principal and Aontu Spokesperson on Education. 

Leo Varadkar has called for all parties to make pledge on Irish unity. The Former Taoiseach says new ideas like the Dáil sitting in Stormont at times or British passport-holders in cabinet need to be considered. We get reaction from Doug Beattie, Ulster Unionist Party Justice Spokesperson and MLA for Upper Bann. 

Pearse Doherty, Sinn Fein’s Deputy Leader and Spokesperson for finance joined Shane this morning on the show to discuss to discuss plans to abolish the hated USC ‘bank bailout tax’ on earnings up to €45,000, as part of Sinn Féin’s alternative budget 2025. 

More and more gyms are having to introduce policies around phone use. In particular, fitness influencers/‘content creators’ are causing stress and disturbances for some gym goers with their tripods and selfie lamps.  How do you feel when you see someone recording in the gym? Our reporter, Josh Crosbie has been finding out.

Bodywhys, the eating disorder association of Ireland’s annual report has seen an increase of 19.5% accessing eating disorder support services.  Speaking to Shane this morning was Harriet Parsons, Psychotherapist and Training and development manager at Bodywhys.ie.

Israel's military chief has told troops that airstrikes in Lebanon will continue in order to destroy Hezbollah infrastructure and to prepare the way for a possible ground operation by Israeli forces. We get the latest on the situation there with Edmund Bower, Times Reporter and Journalist in Lebanon. 

The Health ­Insurance Authority (HIA) is determined to get providers to reduce the overwhelming number of plans in the Irish market. There are currently 349 schemes on offer, making it difficult for consumers to compare them.   We discuss this with  Dermot Goode, Total Health Cover which is a Lockton company.

Israel reportedly killed a top Hezbollah yesterday amid bombings that have left over 500 dead far. To discuss the latest updates was Professor Emeritus of peace studies at Bradford University Paul Rodgers. 

 The HSE has published the Breastfeeding Action Plan Progress Report for 2016 to 2023 ahead of National Breastfeeding week, next week.  Joining us now to discuss the report findings is Laura McHugh, HSE National Breastfeeding Coordinator. 

 Several families who lost loved ones in the Creeslough explosion have called on the Irish government to set up a public inquiry into the tragedy. Shane was joined on the show by   Darragh Mackin, Solicitor with Phoenix Law representing the families and also Hugh Harper, the Father of 14 year old Leona Harper who lost her life in the tragedy.

TikTok has become an entry point for self-diagnosis of ADHD, but a lack of regulation and the blurring of boundaries has experts worried – that's according to an article in the Telegraph. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Professor Susan Young, Clinical Psychologist.

Skyrocketing costs are imposing unsustainable burdens on an industry that is vital to Ireland’s economy,” that's the view of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation CEO Eoghan O’Mara Walsh who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

Five organisations representing students, universities, business and academic research have joined forces to call on government and opposition parties to invest more in Higher education  and research.  To discuss further Shane was joined on the show by Jim Miley Director General of Irish Universities Association, one of the organisations part of this joint call.

A top Hezbollah commander has been 'killed in Beirut' according to Israeli Military, as Netanyahu warns Lebanon strikes won't stop. We get the latest on the situation there with Justin Sahlani, Freelance Journalist in Beirut.

New research, conducted by the Survey Centre of American life found that men are experiencing a particular form of isolation, coined as a “friendship recession”. The study also found that the percentage of men without any close friends jumped fivefold, from 3% to 15% since 1990. Joining us now to discuss the reasons behind this “friendship recession” is Jill O'Mahony, Sociology Lecturer at South East Technological University.

Today the National Women's Council are launching a new Gender Quotas Alliance calling for statutory gender quotas at local elections. The Alliance includes academics; Traveller, migrant, and disabled women’s groups and they are calling for the implementation of statutory gender quotas for local elections. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Claire McGing, Academic researcher covering women and politics. 

Recently the show we spoke to columnist Brenda Power about her concerns around the new surrogacy laws.  She wrote in the Sunday Times that the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission have concerns that our new health act allows for the trafficking of women and babies. We get reaction to this with Fine Gael Senator Mary Seery-Kearney.

Israeli strikes over the last 24 hours have killed at least 492 people and wounded 1,645, Lebanese authorities said. One Lebanese official said it was the highest number of violent deaths in one day since the 1975-1990 civil war. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Daniel Rubenstein from the Israeli Citizen Spokesperson’s Office and former social media advisor to Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. 

Ireland’s culinary history runs far deeper than the stereotypical potatoes and stew. That’s according to Dr Mairtín Mac Con Iomaire, Chair of masters in gastronomy and food studies in TU Dublin, who has served up a deep history of Irish food in his newest book. 

The Banking and Payments Federation Ireland’s latest Housing Market Monitor shows that demand for home purchases remains robust but the increasing share of apartments in new housing developments may affect the speed of housing delivery in 2024 Ali Ugur, Chief Economist with the BPFI talked us through the findings.

Israeli strikes against Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon have killed at least 356 people, according to the country's health ministry. We get the latest from Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent.

A garda manhunt is underway for a “white middle-aged male” in connection with the hijacking of a vehicle that had a five-month-old baby girl inside. We get the latest from Colm Keena Reporter with The Irish Times.

Despite the recent launch of iPhone 16, more and more Irish consumers are turning to second hand smartphones when they are due an upgrade. What do you need to consider before you buy and what should you avoid? To bring us all the information was Newstalk's Tech Correspondent, Jess Kelly.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has confirmed that plans to introduce hate speech laws have been dropped. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Dr Amanullah de Sondy, Head of the Study of Religions & Senior Lecturer in Contemporary Islam at UCC. 

A coalition of 11 non-governmental organisation have today urged the Government to reconsider the proposal for another untargeted energy credit in Budget 2025. We hear from Clare O’Connor, Energy Policy Officer, Friends of the Earth. 

An independent report into the death of Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick has found her death was 'almost certainly avoidable'. Chief Executive of the HSE Bernard Gloster has said that six people are facing disciplinary process in the wake of Aoife’s death. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Damien Tansey, Solicitor to the Johnston family, Senior Partner in Damien Tansey solicitors and Senior Counsel.

Ireland’s new surrogacy law is legalising the sale of children that's the view of Sunday Times columnist Brenda Power. Brenda explained her view to Ciara this morning.

The Young Adult Card Fare reduction should continue until age 30 that is the view of Fine Gael Senator Maria Byrne who explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

Israel's military has begun carrying out extensive strikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon this morning. We get the latest from Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent. 

Solid fuel burning and transport emissions must be tackled to meet the country’s air quality ambitions and protect public health – that's according to The Environmental Protection Agency who today published its annual air quality report Air Quality in Ireland 2023. Joining us to discuss the report is Patrick Kenny, Senior Scientific Officer in the EPA’s Air Quality Team. 

A new study has found that parents are unlikely to be at fault for picky eaters, with fussy eating peaking at the age of seven. Speakigng to discuss more is Dietician and founder of Eatwell Sarah Keogh.

Culture Night is back, and it’s bigger and better than ever, with a vibrant lineup of events lighting up every corner of Ireland tonight!  To walk us through the excitement and highlights, We were joined by Maureen Kenelly, Director of the Arts Council.

Energy experts have set up a base in Ireland as part of a project to supply more secure energy to NATO members. Against these plans are Co Chair of the Irish Anti War Movement  Mark Price and Mark explained why to Shane this morning.

Israeli warplanes carried out their most intense strikes on southern Lebanon in nearly a year of war, heightening the conflict between Israel and Lebanese armed group Hezbollah amid calls for restraint. Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent bring us up to speed with the latest. 

After a recent surge in dog attacks there's calls to make it compulsory for all dogs to be on a leash in public spaces. Fine Gael Councillor Mike Kennelly is insisting Kerry County Council review their bylaws and make the change now. Mike explained the call to Shane this morning on the show.

Five schools have been chosen to start gender violence prevention training with the Men’s Development Network. A key part of the training is tackling the ‘bystander’ effect and Dr Jackson Katz, Author, Educator & Leading figure in the global movement to end men’s violence against women explains how he intends to do that.

Analysis from the World Resources Institute has found that longer and more frequent heatwaves, soaring demand for air conditioning and widespread disease are the reality for cities should the planet keep warming at current rates.We hear from John Sweeney, Climatologist and Professor Emeritus of Geography at Maynooth University. 

With Ireland facing a severe housing shortage and mounting pressure to meet climate targets, a new report from the National Economic and Social Council highlights ‘Modern Methods of Construction (MMC)’ as a potential solution. We discuss this with Daithi Downey, Policy Analyst there at NESC.

‘Oasis are cultural dinosaurs who belong in the ‘90s we should have left them there’. That’s according to journalist and author Suzanne Harrington in today’s Irish Independent who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

You might have heard the Hard Shoulder reflecting on 30 years of ER yesterday evening, but another show that is turning 30 this month is… Friends.  We speak Sara Wallis, Daily Mirror’s TV columnist and Friends superfan.

At least 20 people have been killed and more than 450 wounded by a second wave of explosions from wireless communication devices in Lebanon, the country’s health ministry says. We get the latest with Alistair Bunkall Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent

If Cork city can have community wardens with the power to enforce parking and littering laws, why can’t Dublin city?  That’s the call from Michael Pidgeon, Leader of the Green Party Group on Dublin City Council who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

The Irish Fiscal Advisory Council have warned that pricing pressures in the Irish economy are now on par with the Celtic Tiger era. To discuss this further Shane spoke to Austin Hughes, Economist and also John Fitzgerald, adjunct Professor in Economics in Trinity College Dublin.

As Budget 2025 looms, Ireland has 12 days until it becomes the most expensive country to buy diesel. To discuss this prospect further was Fuels for Ireland Director Kevin McPartlan.

Gardai have “dismantled” a major drugs trafficking route and seized over €16million worth of drugs amid a major international operation. The Gardaí also revealed that ‘The Family’ have now taken the title of Ireland’s biggest mob from the Kinahans. We get the details with Conor Lally, Irish Times Crime and Security Editor.

The Labour Party has called for fixed term parliaments to be introduced. We ask why with Ivana Bacik, the Labour Party Leader.

An estimated 52,000 new homes could be needed per year out to the middle of the century to meet housing demands – that's according to the Central Bank who published their Quarterly Bulletin today.    Joining us to discuss the latest figures is Managing Director of Sherry Fitzgerald, Marian Finnegan. 

There’s cause for concern on our roads with a massive increase in the number of learner drivers involved in fatal collisions as well as rising no shows for driving tests.  We hear from Dominic Brophy, Director of the Professional Driving Instructors Association. 

Hezbollah have vowed to retaliate against Israel after accusing it of detonating pagers across Lebanon, killing at least eight people and wounding nearly 3,000 people   We speak to Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East News Correspondent along with Paul Rodgers, Professor Emeritus of Peace Studies at Bradford University and Author of the Insecurity Trap.

A 71-year-old French man accused of drugging his wife so that he and dozens of strangers could sexually assault her at her home has told a court 'I am a rapist’ . We get the latest from the court case with Nabila Ramdani, French Journalist and Author of ‘Fixing France: How to Repair a Broken Republic

The European Union has called on member countries to ban smoking and vaping in many outdoor areas including playgrounds, swimming pools and restaurant patios as part of a crackdown on second-hand smoke.  We got reaction to this with Professor Luke Clancy, Director General of the Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland.

There was a wave of exploding pagers across Lebanon and Syria yesterday. The incident comes at a time of heightened tensions between Israel and it’s neighbouring countries. For the latest on this Shane spoke to Dr Tom Clonan, Security Analyst and Independent Senator.

An Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Michéal Martin joined Shane this morning live from the Fianna Fáil Think In!

Irish children are overweight ‘because they are driven everywhere’ that’s the view of Roisin Garvey, Green Party Senator & Deputy Leader of the Party. Roisin explained her statement to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

The death toll across central Europe from the worst flooding in decades has risen to at least 16 after Storm Boris brought a month’s worth of rain in just 24 hours. We get the latest on the situation in Romania with Andra Miron Diaconescu, Editor-in-Chief at EuroNews Romania. Also speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Independent Climate and Environmental Researcher Sadhbh O'Neill.

The scale of dereliction across the country has been laid bare with commercial vacancy as high as one in three in the worst-hit areas. To discuss further we spoke to Roisin Murphy, Architect, Conservation Activist, Artist & Lecturer in Griffith College Dublin.

A survey of farmers conducted by Opinions Research has found that 82% of respondents claimed that rural Ireland is not receiving adequate investment in critical infrastructure like roads and broadband. We hear from Denis Drennan, President of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association  and also John Moran, Mayor of Limerick.

An ‘explosion’ of presentations to adolescent addiction services is currently being caused a cannabis-like substance known has HHC.  Currently available in vapes and edibles in Ireland, HHC is not subject to any legal restrictions at present as it is currently not classified as a controlled substance. To tell us more about this is Professor Bobby Smyth, Chair of the addiction faculty at the College of Psychiatrists of Ireland. 

The Universal Social Charge was introduced as a temporary tax in 2010 but remains in place despite budget surpluses. And yesterday, the finance minister avoided confirming if the USC would be reduced by another 0.5%, as it was in last year’s budget.  One person who believes it should be scrapped is Daniel McConnell, Editor at The Business Post and Danny explained why to Shane this morning.

Sinn Fein Leader Mary Lou McDonald joined Newstalk Breakfast ahead of the party's Think in.

The 76th primetime Emmy Awards took place in Los Angeles last night. To give us a rundown of the winners and losers, we were joined on the show by Scott Bryan, BBC TV Critic.

Four staff have been suspended following allegations about abuse of toddlers at a Dublin childcare service. Joining us with the story was Social Affairs Correspondent with the Irish Times, Kitty Holland. 

The Inheritance Tax Reform group will meet tonight to discuss the divisive tax. They maintain it is unfair and wants it abolished. We discuss further with Dr. Barra Roantree, Assistant Professor of Economics at Trinity College along with Colm Brophy Fine Gael TD for Dublin South West. 

At least eight dead and tens of thousands are without power as heavy rain and gale force winds cause havoc across central Europe. For more on this we spoke to  Derek Scally, Irish Times Berlin Correspondent who is currently in Vienna.

The Green Party think-in which gets underway today. What will be on today's agenda? We heard from Roderic O’Gorman, Leader of the Green Party and Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

Former President Donald Trump was rushed to safety following an apparent assassination attempt at his Florida golf course. We get the latest on this with David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian joins me now.

 Students from economically advantaged families are more likely to be able to take part in private tuition to avoid educational disappointment – that's according to research from the ESRI. So, are grinds reinforcing educational inequality?  We discuss with Sheila O’Malley, Parenting Expert and Keynote Speaker.

The Irish Medical Organization (IMO) has called for the Government to use some of the proceeds from the Apple Tax to address major infrastructural issues in the Irish health services.    We speak to Dr Denis Mc Cauley, GP and president of the Irish Medical Organisation to discuss this.

Irish universities risk ‘quiet and gradual decline’ due to funding shortages. That’s the warning from the provost of Trinity College Dublin, Professor Linda Doyle who explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

It’s been almost 3 weeks since the Dublin Transport Plan was put in place to help reduce traffic flow in the city centre. But what sort of effects has it had on bus users in particular? We speak to Billy Hann, CEO of Dublin Bus.

An Tanaiste, Micheal Martin has said that Sophie Toscan Du Plantier’s murder case should have gone before a jury and noted that 'we failed in our duty to find a convict a bloody murderer’ . We discuss this further with Mick Clifford, Special Correspondent for the Irish Examiner.

The People Before Profit–Solidarity think in will take place in Dublin later today. We ask what is on the agenda at the think in with Mick Barry. People Before Profit Solidarity TD for Cork North Central. 

The UK is set to ban junk food ads before 9 pm and introduce a total ban on paid-for online advertising from 2025 in a bid to tackle childhood obesity. We get a reaction to this with joined by Dietitian, Orla Walsh.

  Since the first quarter of 2023, rents for new tenancies rose by 8.1 per cent nationally, that’s according to the Residential Tenancies Board  The Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers say much of the data is still incomplete in terms of giving a full understanding of what is actually happening in the rental market. Speaking to Ciara this morning was their CEO, Pat Davitt.

Galway City Council is hoping to pilot the roll out of a new ‘tourism tax’ which it believes can be used to support sustainable tourism development, but what impact will this have on businesses?    Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Pat Mc Donagh Founder and Managing Director of Supermacs.

An Taoiseach, Simon Harris joined us live from Fine Gael’s Think-In at Tullamore, County Offaly.   

Apple warned the Irish Government this summer that there is a “very real threat” of Ireland pushing away multinationals if we don’t provide infrastructure. We discuss this further with  Kevin Timoney, Chief Economist at Davy.

“Nearly half of us leave a doctor’s appointment without having discussed all our health concerns. It’s no wonder when we’re given 10 minutes and made to feel guilty for being there in the first place”. So wrote Helen Coffey, Senior Features writer for The Independent UK who spoke to Ciara this morning.

€10 a day childcare for all that's the message from Sinn Féin’s Affordable childcare plan. We speak to Claire Kerrane, Sinn Fein Spokesperson for Children to discuss their plan.

There have been calls for more action to be taken by Dublin City Council to tackle our ‘tree problem’ with councillors believing it’s time for a new strategy to deal with the issue.  Speaking to Shane this morning was Fianna Fail Councillor Tom Brabazon.

The National Transport Authority begins research for its Household Travel Survey today. We discuss with Barry Colleary, Head of Transport Modelling for the National Transport Authority. 

Comedy clubs, pubs and a big, long table down the middle of a street in Cork are just some of the ways architect Dermot Bannon thinks we can renew and revitalise town and cities In his newest show Super Spaces, Dermot explores the ways in which people are making the most of urban spaces while so many sectors struggle. Dermot joined us this morning on the show.

 Housing Minister Daragh O’Brien has announced a €100M investment in the First Home Scheme. Speaking to Ciara this morning was the Minister for Housing to discuss this investment.   

Student Olivia Humphrey has won the James Dyson Award for creating the very first portable scalp cooling device for cancer patients on chemotherapy. Olivia got the inspiration to create the device, named Athena, after watching her own mother go through treatment. Olivia spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning

The long awaited ABC debate between Presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump aired last night. We get more reaction to the debate with Kevin O’Malley, American Lawyer & diplomat who was the United States Ambassador to Ireland from 2014 to 2017.

 Teachers unions have called out what it believes is a “shameful level of underinvestment” in schools after Ireland came in 34th place in the latest OECD report when compared with other Western countries. We discuss this further with Kieran Christie, ASTI General Secretary.  

There are renewed calls for a permanent motocross track in Dublin’s North Inner City. Residents in the area say there’s a scourge of scramblers being driven dangerously through busy public spaces.  There is a track on the Northside, but a lack of funding only permits it to open sporadically. Our reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been meeting with locals to hear how the misuse of motorbikes is impacting their community:" 

Ciara and Shane take a look back on the first debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump which took place last night.

Iran has sent short-range ballistic missiles to Russia and the Kremlin "will likely use them within weeks in Ukraine", the US secretary of state Anthony Blinken has said during his visit to the UK. We discuss this further with Paul Rogers, Emeritus Professor of Peace Studies at Bradford University.

Ciara was joined by People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy and Cormac Lucey, Economics Columnist with Sunday Times Ireland, to discuss the European Court of Justice’s landmark ruling on the €13 billion tax case involving Apple and Ireland.

Ciara was joined by David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian, to preview the highly anticipated debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, airing tonight on ABC.

Shane was joined by Colm Burke, Minister of State with responsibility for Public Health, Wellbeing, and the National Drugs Strategy, to discuss the government’s new measures aimed at phasing out vaping.

Ciara was joined by Alex Cooney, CEO of CyberSafeKids, to discuss YouTube’s decision to limit access to fitness videos for European teenagers.

Shane was joined by Sean O’Neill McPartlin, Housing Policy Director at Progress Ireland, to explore the bold claim that Ireland’s gardens could hold the key to solving the housing crisis

Shane was joined by journalist Enda Brady to discuss the ongoing developments surrounding Lucy Letby’s conviction. As a public inquiry into how Letby was able to commit her crimes looms, some families are calling for a broader investigation

Ciara was joined by Susanne Rogers, Research and Policy Analyst at Social Justice Ireland, to discuss calls from the Parliamentary Budget Office for the government to consider broadening the tax base.

Shane was joined by Zoe Kavanagh, CEO of Repak, to discuss the findings from Repak’s first-ever annual National Recycling Knowledge Audit.

Ciara was joined by Newstalk's Tech Correspondent, Jess Kelly, to give a preview of the latest iPhone, which Apple is set to unveil this evening.

Shane was joined by Moore Holmes, a Loyalist activist, to discuss the controversial booing of the English national anthem by Irish fans at a recent sporting event.

Ciara was joined by Siobhan Malone McBarron, who lives with Muscular Dystrophy, a rare neuromuscular disease. Siobhan shared her powerful perspective on the proposed assisted dying legislation, expressing her frustration that it fails to provide peace of mind to those with acute diseases.

Ciara was joined by Larry Donnelly, Director of the Kennedy Summer School and Law Lecturer at the University of Galway, to discuss the latest national poll showing former President Donald Trump pulling ahead of Vice President Kamala Harris

Shane was joined by Paul Crone, Director of the National Association of Principals and Deputies, to discuss the growing calls for reform to the CAO system.

Shane was joined by Dublin Lord Mayor James Geoghegan to discuss the launch of Dublin Climate Action Week. With events taking place across the Dublin region, this week-long initiative aims to showcase the city's efforts in climate action and highlight the importance of community involvement in tackling environmental challenges.

Ciara was joined by Kevin Hollingsworth, President of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland, to discuss the growing calls for a dedicated rental court to handle disputes between tenants and landlords.

‘We are cluttering our mental landscape with our decluttering schemes,’’ according to experts. We discuss with Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin and author of resilience.  

Summer 2024 was the hottest on record globally and for Europe that's according to the Copernicus Climate Change Service. We get reaction from  John Gibbons, Environmental Journalist.

“Retribution for abuse survivors must be swift, comprehensive, and respectful,” that's according to Fergus Finlay, columnist with the Irish Examiner. Fergus joined Ciara this morning on the show to discuss further. 

With a rise in dog attacks across the country are dogs the problem or is it an owner issue?  We ask Pete The Vet, Pete Wedderburn.

Over in the UK Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner has come under hot water for singing and dancing on stage on her holidays in Ibiza. We ask Should Politicians be held to a higher account? To discuss along with Shane was Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with The Irish Independent. 

Debs season is here and these days its a big deal. The big night has this become yet another pressure on parents. We discuss this with Jen Hogan, Columnist with the Irish Times. 

A woman has been taken to hospital with serious injuries after being attacked by two dogs in south Co Dublin.  Diarmuid Pepper, Journalist with the Journal.ie brought us the details of the dog attack.

Members of trade union UNITE will be striking at construction sites across the country today. We hear from James McCabe, UNITE Regional Officer to hear why they are striking. 

The latest price index from DoneDeal Motors has found that the price of used electric vehicles have fallen 15% year on year. We ask what is the future of EV's with Shane O'Donoghue Editor with Completecar.ie

Corporation tax receipts more than doubled in August compared to last year, according to exchequer returns. Shane discusses this with Professor John FitzGerald, Research Affiliate ESRI.

‘The practice of dynamic pricing must be banned, and consumers must be protected,’ that’s according to Senator Timmy Dooley. Senator Dooley spoke to Ciara this morning on the show to discuss further.   

A new report claims that a company has finally admitted that our phones are really listening to us to send us targeted advertising. We discuss with  Adrian Weckler, Technology Editor with the Irish Independent. 

The Water Action Plan, published by the Government today, is “a missed opportunity to tackle water pollution” say Sustainable Water Network. We hear from their CEO Sinead O’Brien who explains why they are saying this. 

Concussion risks are outweighed by benefits of amateur sport, a study from Oxford University found. We discuss this with  Professor John Fairclough, spokesperson for Progressive Rugby. 

The average household disposable income is now lower than it was in 2020 that's according to a new report from the ESRI. To discuss the findings was  Dr Barra Roantree, Director of the joint ESRI-TCD MSc in Economic Policy at Trinity College Dublin and a co-author of the report. 

70% of Irish professionals state that the current workweek doesn’t suit them that's according to talent solutions firm Robert Walters. Is the conventional 40-hour workweek is falling out of favour?  We ask Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director at Futurewise. 

The government’s ‘everything now’ budget approach is adding unnecessary fuel to the fire” That’s according to the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council. Speaking to Ciara this morning was Seamus Coffey, Chairperson of Irish Fiscal Advisory Council. 

There were 884 alleged abusers in schools of 42 religious orders who currently or previously ran schools in Ireland – these are the harrowing figures released in a scoping inquiry report into cases of sexual abuse at several schools run by religious orders.  One in Four provides services to adult survivors of childhood sexual abuse and consulted with the department of Education on this inquiry, their CEO Deirdre Kenny spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

Speaking exclusively to Breakfast Business this morning, CEO of the Dublin Airport Authority, Kenny Jacobs revealed that Dublin airport will exceed the cap of 32 million passengers this year by a million.  Michael O’Leary, Group Chief Executive of Ryanair spoke to Shane with is reaction.

Elle McPherson has revealed she was diagnosed with breast cancer seven years ago nut decided not to undergo chemotherapy or further traditional medical treatment. The supermodel who is now 60 said she wanted to take a holistic approach to treating the disease but acknowledged this isn’t right for everyone. John Crowne, Consultant Oncologist at St Vincent's University Hospital Group spoke to Ciara this morning to discuss.

The Taoiseach has arrived in Ukraine amid talks of a new political deal which expresses Ireland's strong solidarity with the country.   Barry Whyte, Newstalk’s Chief Reporter is with the Taoiseach in Ukraine and spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Dublin airport will exceed its 32 million passenger cap in 2024 – that's according to the Dublin Airport Authority. 3.46 million passengers went through the terminal doors of Dublin Airport this August, making it the busiest month ever in Dublin Airport’s 84-year history. We discuss with Eoghan Corry, Travel Expert.  

There has been a total of 2,395 allegations of historical sexual abuse at over 300 religious-run schools, according to a report released yesterday. We discuss the findings of the Scoping Inquiry with Paul Hosford, Deputy Political Editor at The Irish Examiner.

The Department of Education has come under pressure to drop a Junior Cycle textbook containing discriminatory depictions of an Irish family from the school curriculum. We discuss with Eric Nelligan Teacher and Aontu Education Spokesperson. 

Reduced government grants have been blamed for New electric vehicle sales being down over 25% so far this year. We discuss with Nadia Adan, Owner of Ashford Motors and Social Media Star.  

Benjamin Netanyahu has asked for "forgiveness" that the six hostages were not brought home alive but remains defiant that Hamas will pay a ‘heavy price’. We speak to Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East to discuss along with Dr Einat Wilf, Former Member of Israeli parliament and co-author of “The War of Return” .

New report released today by Irish Charity CybersafeKids reveals that almost 25% of 8-12 year olds are bothered by harmful content online. We discuss this with Stella O’Malley, Psychotherapist and Author, with three books on parenting and mental health. 

Dublin city centre businesses are to be banned from leaving out rubbish in plastic bags in a bid to clean up the capitals streets. We get reaction from this plan with Gina Murphy, Owner of Hugo’s Restaurant.

More than 220,000 US soldiers have travelled through Shannon Airport over the last three-and-a-half years, new figures show from the Department of Transport show. Could this US military transit through Shannon airport may seriously undermine Irish neutrality? Ciara discusses this with Dr. Edward Hogan, neutrality campaigner and former member of the Defence Forces.

SEAI 2023 Energy Balance Report shows progress on emissions reduction, but not yet enough to meet carbon budget .We discuss with Margie McCarthy, Director of Research and Policy Insights with the Sustainable Energy Authority Of Ireland. 

334 motorists were caught speeding in the first five hours of National Slow Down Day. Now as the 24-hour campaign draws to a close. Shane discuss the stats received with Superintendent Liam Geraghty.

British author and journalist, Dolly Alderton, recently claimed that the internet has made us all dress the same. Have influencers and algorithms stolen our sense of individuality when it comes to fashion?  We asked Image Consultant and Owner of The Style Bob, Aoife Dunican.

Thousands of disappointed Oasis fans have expressed their frustration with Ticketmaster after failing to secure tickets for one of the highly anticipated comeback tour. We discuss further with Jess Kelly, Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent.  

Thousands have taken to the streets in Tel Aviv as pressures mount for a ceasefire deal as six more captives were found dead in Gaza. We get the latest on this with Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent.   

Today Sinn Féin’s Spokesperson for Housing, Eoin O’Broin will publish the party’s five-year plan to overhaul the current government’s housing policy, titled ‘A Home of Your Own’. Shane was joined on the show by Senator Mary FitzPatrick, Fianna Fail’s Spokesperson on Housing, Local Government and Heritage. 

Friends of the Earth commend the South Dublin County council decision to not allow planning for another Google data centre and want to see it nationally. We speak with Jerry McEvilly, Head of Policy at Friends of the Earth Ireland and also Gavin Lawlor, Director at Tom Phillips and Associates.  

Thousands of people fell victim to dynamic pricing as tickets for Oasis went on sale Saturday morning. Do we need to hold Ticketmaster to account? We spoke to   Michael Healy Rae, Independent TD Kerry. 

Thousands of people fell victim to dynamic pricing as tickets for Oasis went on sale Saturday morning. Do we need to hold Ticketmaster to account?  Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Michael Healy Rae, Independent TD Kerry. 

Minister for Justice,  Helen McEntee has announced the introduction of a new system of civil orders to prevent stalking and protect victims.  We get reaction to this with Una Ring, stalking victim and co-founder of stalking.ie. 

The Alternative for Germany Party is the first far-right party to win a regional election in Germany since World War II. To get the latest on this Ciara spoke to Rob Hyde, freelance Journalist based in Germany. 

Cold play rocked Croke park last night with the first of four gigs in their Music of the Spheres World Tour. Newstalk’s Digital and Social Media Executive, Ciara Tracy was at the gig and told us how it went.

A new phone line for non-urgent medical issues could be on the way as an alternative to the using the 112/999 national emergency lines.We discuss this with Dr Denis McCauley, Donegal GP and President of the Irish Medical Organisation GP committee.

Kamala Harris took part in her first her first unscripted interview last night sitting down with CNN’s Dana Bash alongside her V.P candidate Tim Walz. Was it a success? We ask David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian.

Doctors are calling for stricter regulations within Ireland's cosmetics industry.  Medical professionals are urging government to introduce laws which will only allow doctors or nurses to administer the products, similar to the rules surrounding the use of botox. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Patricia Molloy, Nurse Practitioner, Owner of the Derma Clinic, Member of the Board and Former Chairperson of the Dermatology Aesthetic Nurses Association of Ireland.   

Thousands of families are set to benefit from substantial reductions in early learning and childcare costs from the 2nd of September under the National Childcare scheme.  Ciara got to speak to Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration, and Youth, Roderic O’Gorman to discuss this further. 

New rules regulating hand luggage is due to come into effect on Sunday across airports in the European Union. To talk us through the new regulations is Media Relations Manager with the DAA, Graeme McQueen. 

Two teenagers have been arrested after Irish chef shot dead outside his restaurant in Kansas City . Shaun Brady, originally from Nenagh, was shot in car park outside his restaurant after trying to intervene in suspected car theft. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Erin Gabert Friend of Shaun Brady’s and one of the members of board of directors for the local Irish Fest.

Israel and Hamas have agreed to zoned three-day pauses in fighting to allow for polio vaccinations. We get the latest on this with  Alistair Bunkall, Sky News Middle East Correspondent. 

Fionnuala Jones, Broadcaster and Podcaster has been writing about the difficulty maintaining female friendships and told Newstalk Breakfast what she has experienced.

Tusla, the state’s Child and Family Agency which is responsible for providing foster care has rejected one potential foster parent based on her BMI. Joining Shane to discuss why that is problematic is Donal O’Shea HSE Lead for Obesity.  

The Minister for Education, Norma Foley has not ruled out introducing an allowance for teachers in Dublin to help resolve the national shortage of teachers Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast John Boyle, General Secretary of the Irish National Teachers Organization. 

Students across the country received the first round of CAO offers yesterday. 56% of students secured their first choice, however, some students lost their place due to random selection which was used in the allocation process for more than 20 courses.   Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was Orla Sheils, Vice Provost at Trinity College Dublin.

People don't feel safe in the North Inner city. That is the view of Social Democrats Councillor for the area, Daniel Ennis explained why to Shane this morning on the show.

Met Éireann have released the names for storms for the season Of 2024/25. With Bert, Poppy and Marvis some of the names being selected  We ask how are the storms named? We discuss with Eoin Sherlock, Head Of Forecasting Division in Met Éireann. 

Last night a documentary aired on Virgin Media Television on Irelands Thalidomide Scandal.  We speak to Finola Cassidy, Survivor and spokesperson for the Irish Thalidomide Association. 

An independent poll which was released today by the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland shows that 64% of people surveyed agreed that Ireland should welcome people who move here to make a better life for themselves or their families.  Speaking to Shane this morning on the show was Neil Bruton, Campaigns Manager with MRCI.

Why is it so hard to rent a movie? That is the question posed by Newstalk’s Simon Tierney in the Irish Examiner today and Simon chatted to Shane this morning.

Students across the country are getting ready for the first round of CAO offers out later this afternoon. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Gemma Lawlor, Guidance Counsellor at Tyndall College Carlow.

 “Why are we so fearful to let our kids have some freedom now and do we really think anyone, not least us knackered parents, are benefiting from this “what if” catastrophising mindset?” That’s the question posed by Journalist, Georgina Fuller who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

Huge numbers coming to Ireland in the 12 months to April last, with 149,200 people immigrating here a 17 year high.   But there were also significant numbers going in the opposite direction. 69,000 people moving out of Ireland, bolstered in particular by a "strong outward flow" to Australia, according to the CSO.  Shane discuss these numbers with Mairead Farrell, Sinn Fein TD for Galway West.

Dublin’s Bus Connects has been dragged out for seven years and commuters are still not getting the full benefits from it.  We sent our reporter, Josh Crosbie to take a look at the progress of Bus Connects.

Free mole mapping scans every year for PRSI workers should be introduced to help catch skin cancers. That is the call from Fianna Fáil TD Christopher O'Sullivan. To discuss further we spoke to Professor Caitriona Ryan Consultant Dermatologist at the Institute of Dermatologists.

It emerged yesterday that from October household electricity prices will increase by €100. Is there anything that can be done to bring down the cost and why exactly is this happening?  We speak to Muireann Lynch, Energy Economist and Senior Research Office with ERSI.  

Two more cities have been added to the Dublin portal. Vilnius in Lithuania and Lubin in Poland are the latest to join the portal, will be enjoyed by Dublin’s 25,000 weekly visitors in the coming weeks.   Nollaig Fahy, Dublin City Council Culture Company's Tourism Innovation Manager  spoke to Ciara about this

This month marks one year since the family of 20-year-old Ella Mills said goodbye to their daughter heading to college in New York City. Little did they know that just three weeks later, Ella would die in a kayaking accident near Washington DC.  One year later, Ella’s dad Ralph Mills has set a new world-record by running an ‘aquamarathon’ to raise funds in her memory for a charity that helps bring loved ones’ bodies back to Ireland.  Ralph joined Shane Coleman on Newstalk Breakfast

A new strategy unveiled by the government aims to implement “clear and simple actions” to improve the lives of people with autism. Adam Harris, CEO of As I am, spoke to Ciara about this.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly wants to ban social media for everyone under the age of 16, comparing platforms like TikTok to smoking addictions. But would it work? Irish Independent Technology Editor Adrian Weckler spoke to Newstalk Breakfast about this...

The 300-plus reported cases of Afghan women being killed by men since the Taliban seized power are just “the tip of the iceberg” when it comes to the true scale of gender-based violence in Afghanistan. That's according to a recent report by the Centre of Information Resilience’s Afghan Witness Project. Ciara was joined by Mahbooba Faiz, a Lawyer and Women’s Rights Activist.

Following an incident over the weekend involving a horse and carriage in the city centre   The national association of animal rights is calling for the practice to be banned.  Martina Kenny, Co-Founder of My Lovely Horse Rescue joined Ciara on the show.  

The government has made progress on environmental commitments but much stronger action is needed.  That is the assessment of a new report from Friends of the Earth examining the government’s handling of climate issues.  The report awards the government a B minus overall grade.  Professor of Environmental Policy at University College Dublin & Member of the Climate Advisory Council, Dr Cara Augustenborg, joined Shane on the show.

An Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheal Martin joined Shane this morning on the show to discuss the Irish troop situated in the Middle East.

A ban on private vehicles travelling on sections of the north and south quays in Dublin city centre came into effect yesterday.  Jean McCabe, Chief Executive of Retail Excellence joined Newstalk Breakfast to discuss what this might mean for Dublin businesses .

Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed that Israeli air raids targeting Hezbollah rockets in southern Lebanon in the early hours of Sunday morning were “not the end of the story” Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Alistair Bunkall, Sky's Middle East Correspondent and alsoSean Bell, Former Fighter Pilot, Military Analyst and Co-Host of the Red Matrix Podcast for analysis to discuss the ongoing situation there.

Raygun, representing Australia in breaking at the Paris Olympics, included a kangaroo hopping routine. She has sent shockwaves across the hiphop world. The fallout has divided and disappointed the global breaking community, but there is support from the scene here in Ireland. Henry McKean met some of them including the dance company Luail and breakers Leon Dwyer and Tobi Omoteso.

Do you ever take the mick out of your more ‘follically challenged’ friends with comments like ‘Baldy?’ Chris Wasser a freelance Arts Journalist felt the impact of such a phrase at one point in his mid-20s and, in his own words, it ‘devastated’ him. Chris explained why to Shane this morning on the show.

Ireland is facing an epidemic in the amount of young people vaping. That’s according to The Irish Heart Foundation who are calling for the government’s support in helping young people get off nicotine  Speaking to Shane this morning was Chris Macey, Irish Heart Foundation’s Director of Advocacy. 

The average rent nationwide in the second quarter of the year is up over 7% year-on-year. That’s according to the latest Rental Report by Daft.ie  Ciara discusses the findings with Ronan Lyons Economist at Trinity College Dublin and author of the report.

More than 25,000 people are visiting Ireland for the Aer Lingus College Football Classic in the Aviva on Saturday. It’s estimated that spending surrounding the event will bring in around 115 million euro to the country.  Georgia Tech will take on Florida State University to a sold-out crowd of over 47,000 people. Our reporter Josh Crosbie has been meeting with some of those involved: 

Paralympians have taken to social media to announce that they are not ‘participating’ in the upcoming Paralympics.  Instead, they want people to acknowledge they are ‘competing’ in the Games and that their athletic career is as serious as the Olympics. With us now to discuss this campaign is Irish Paralympic cyclist Richael Tierney. 

  Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic nomination to run in this November’s election. She took to the stage at the party’s national convention. To discuss the last day of the convention and her speech was Patti Shields, Chair of the Irish branch of Democrats Abroad. 

 It’s a huge day for almost 60 thousand students as they nervously await their Leaving Cert Results.  This year is expected to be the final year of “gradeflation” due to Covid. We speak to Norma Foley Minister for Education.

As thousands receive their leaving cert results many children are beginning their journey into secondary school.  However, for some it's not plain sailing. We speak to one mother whose child still has no secondary school place. Ellen Arbuthnot, from Lucan told us about her son Charlie’s situation.

A decision is due next month on plans to convert the property known as the setting for James Joyce’s The Dead into 10 apartments. Does Ireland have a problem with preserving our heritage and cultural history? We discuss this with Roisin Murphy, Architect, Conservation Activist and Lecturer in Griffith College Dublin.

The number of Gardaí policing our roads has fallen by 41% in just 15 years. That’s according to this morning’s Irish Independent. We got reaction to this with Susan Gray is the founder of the PARC Road Safety Group.

Students across the country will today receive their leaving cert results. We hear from Carl O’Brien, Education editor with the Irish Times.

A phone ban could be on the way for secondary schools. Education Minister Norma Foley has said she wants to extend the voluntary ban beyond primary schools.  Portlaw National School in County Waterford is one school that has implemented a ban, their principal is Brian Barron spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

It was another star studded day at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago yesterday.  Tonight Kamala Harris will close the convention as she formally accepts the nomination to run for the presidency but last night it was the turn of her vice-presidential selection Tim Walz. We hear from David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian.

The National Women’s Council has called for a public system of Early Childhood Education and Care, which they believe is the only common-sense solution to the current childcare crisis facing parents across the county.  Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Eilish Balfe Care officer from The National Women’s Council.

Budget 2025 must be framed around infrastructure delivery rather than ‘handouts’ That's the view of Employers group IBEC.  We discuss this and more with Kevin Timoney, Chief Economist with Davy.

Zara has pulled a children’s T-shirt from sale, after mothers on TikTok called it out for being sexually “suggestive”.  To discuss this more with Ciara was  Mary McCarthy Irish Independent Columnist.

Five of the six missing persons on board the luxury yacht that sank off the coast of Sicily on Monday have been recovered. We get the latest on this with Nick Squires, Rome Correspondent for the Telegraph.

Ireland’s first-ever National Swimming Strategy will launch later today. Ciara spoke to the Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne ahead of the launch.

Journalist, author and trailblazing feminist Nell McCafferty has died a the age of 80. Her family confirmed her death this morning at a nursing home in Co Donegal. We hear from Mary Kenny, author and columnist with the Irish Independent and founded the Irish Women’s Liberation Movement with Nell in 1970. 

US secretary of state Antony Blinken is visiting fellow mediators Egypt and Qatar as Hamas and Israel signal that challenges remain in efforts to secure a ceasefire in Gaza.   Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Sean Bell, Retired former fighter Pilot, current Defence Consultant and Co-Host of the Red Matrix Podcast. 

After 2 marathon shows at the Dome in Tralee, it was New Zealand Rose Keely O'Grady who was chosen as the 2024 Rose of Tralee. Ciara spoke to Keely this morning after her win! 

It is that dreaded time of year for parents and kids with back to school time just around the corner. It can be especially difficult for kids navigating the change from primary to secondary school. Colman Noctor Child Psychotherapist has been writing about this in his Irish Examiner column and he joined Jonathan this morning on the show.

The Government has decided to defer the introduction of the landmark Residential Zoned Land Tax for a year. We get reaction from Steven Matthews, Chair of Housing Oireachtas Committee and Green Party TD & Michael Ring, Former Minister for Rural and Community Development and Fine Gael TD.

The country's first shared e-scooter scheme has launched in Wexford town.  But are locals for or against the project? Newstalk Report Sarah Madden reports for us.

Forensic Science Ireland, the State’s forensic science laboratory has warned that Ireland’s cannabis market is the ‘Wild West’ of the drug marketplace. Speaking to Ciara was Dr Bobby Smyth, Consultant Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist and Addiction Specialist.

 Richard Hammond is back with a new season of his Discovery Plus show Richard Hammond's Workshop and Richard spoke to Jonathan this morning to chat all about his new series.

The US has called on Hamas to agree to a bridging proposal for a ceasefire in Gaza after it gained the backing of Israel. We get the latest from Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent. 

The Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers have said the government needs to examine tax relief for landlords in the upcoming budget to boost rental supply.Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Pat Davitt, CEO of The Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuer & Pearse Doherty, Sinn Féin Spokesman on Finance.

Too many people have lost their lives on Irish roads in 2024. So, Does Ireland’s approach to transportation engineering contribute to danger on the roads?  Wesley Marshall, Professor of civil engineering at University of Colorado, Denver and author of Killed by a Traffic Engineer: Shattering the Delusion that Science Underlies our Transportation System.

Speaking to The Journal, Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has said he wants to expand the criteria to allow more people to avail of free IVF supports  The news comes as 1,000 couples have been referred through the free IVF scheme that was launched last September. We heard from Dr John Waterstone, Medical Director of Waterstone Clinic.

Last week budget airline Wizz Air launched an unlimited flight subscription service.  A year’s subscription will set you back €599 but would give you access to unlimited Wizz Air flights.   On Friday’s show, the CEO of Ryanair Michael O’Leary wasn’t impressed with the move. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast to respond was Yvonne Moynihan who is Chief Corporate and ESG Officer at Wizz Air. 

Mike Lynch, the businessman once described as “Britain’s Bill Gates”, and his 18 year-old daughter are missing after a superyacht sank in a freak tornado off the coast of Sicily on Monday morning. We get the latest from Nick Squires, Telegraph’s Rome Correspondent.

Today is world photography day, but you don’t have to be a pro to make the most of the photos you take every day. Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly give us some tips on taking the best pictures on your phone.

An Taoiseach Simon Harris has warned that Ireland is not immune from terror threat. This comes as Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris has reportedly increased threat level posed by political extremists from moderate to substantial. All to discuss with Declan Power, Security and Defence Analyst.

Ireland facing ‘at least’ €8.2bn in climate fines if it misses 2030 targets that's according to Marie Donnelly, Chair of the Climate Advisory Council. To discuss further with Jonathan this morning was Oisin Coughlan, Chief Executive of Friends of the Earth.

A new report commissioned by the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland has found that   Alcohol consumption has fallen by 31% since 2001 So, why is our relationship with alcohol changing?  Ciara discussed this with Dr Anne Kehoe, Senior Clinical Psychologist and Chartered <ember of the Psychological Society of Ireland.

New research from the Irish Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism recommends obesity treatment focus on health gain rather than weight loss. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast to discuss further was Professor Carel le Roux, Irish Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism spokesperson and Obesity expert.

Avoca Tidy Towns decided to come up with an initiative to tackle litter in their town. To tell us more Jonathan spoke to  Myles Smith, Committee member of Avoca Tidy Towns. 

Kamala Harris will officially be ratified as the Democrat Nominee for November’s US Election at the party’s national convention. Party delegates will today gather in Chicago for the first day of the four day convention. Ciara spoke to David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian.

The Wolfe Tones will play the main stage at Electric Picnic on Sunday following record crowds at their show there last year   Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast ahead of their big EP gigs was Brian Warfield, of the Wolfe Tones.

Sweden has recorded Europe’s first case of a new variant of mpox virus. This comes after the World Health Organisation declared a global health emergency this week after it’s spread in central and east Africa. We speak to Professor Sam McConkey, Head of the department of international health and tropical medicine  at RCSI University of Medicine Health Sciences.

Five people have been arrested and charged over the death of Matthew Perry. We get the latest on this with Harriet Alexander, Senior Features Reporter for The Times.

Playboy magazine has announced its relaunch returning with an annual edition in February 2025. But is the concept outdated? We discuss with Dr Mary McAuliffe, Director of Gender Studies at UCD.

Ryanair is calling on the Irish Govt to scrap the 32m Dublin Airport traffic cap, which they say is now damaging growth in Irish tourism, and increasing the cost of air travel.   Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

In the age of instant communication getting children to write letters is a gift.  That is the view of Dr Richard Hogan Family Psychotherapist and author of “Home is where the start is” writing in the Examiner this week and he Shane this morning.

Following his conviction of falsifying business records to silence Stormy Daniels Donald Trump’s Legal Team has requested that he be sentenced after the presidential election. To discuss this further was David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian.

The White House has said that Gaza ceasefire talks in Qatar involving top US officials had a "promising start" but that it did not expect to close a deal immediately.   We get the latest with this from Alistair Bunkall, Sky Middle East News Correspondent.

Scientists have discovered that aging isn't as gradual as we once thought. Instead, it happens in two dramatic bursts first at 44 and then again at 60. These findings could shed light on why certain health problems often surge at these specific ages. We discuss with Professor Rose Anne Kenny, Head of the ageing research program at Trinity College. 

Mandatory evacuation orders were put in place for the town of Glushkovo in Russia’s Kursk region where Ukrainian Armed forces have pushed forward with their offensive. We get the latest with James Waterhouse, BBC’s Ukraine Correspondent.  

For decades, prison authorities have been engaged in an endless fight against drug smuggling. It has mostly been a losing battle, so writes Irish Times journalist Conor Gallagher. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was Michael O’Sullivan Former Assistant Garda Commissioner. 

Transition year was introduced in schools almost 30 years ago, in September 1994. But has it served its purpose? We ask Gemma Lawlor Guidance Counsellor at Tyndall College Carlow.

Ireland’s population is growing at a rate of nearly four people for every new home built that's according to a stark new report from Savills this morning.  The report says that we have the worst ratio of housing supply to population growth among nine high-income countries it looked at. To discuss the findings further was Tom Phillips Managing Director of Tom Phillips Associates. 

Well known architect Valerie Mulvin is behind the “The Reason of Towns” exhibition; Which seeks ton highlight the history and the future potential of some of Ireland’s small towns. Valerie chatted to Jonathan this morning.

A protest is planned this weekend seeking the removal of anti-camping barriers installed on Dublin Grand Canal.  It emerged yesterday that over 90 complaints have been lodged against waterways Ireland over them since May. We heard from Kevin Byrne Chair of the South Georgian Core Residents’ Association.

The Medical Workforce Intelligence Report 2023 shines a spotlight on Ireland’s reliance on international doctors and shows how the demographics of Irish GPs is changing  To discuss further Shane spoke to Dr Suzanne Crowe, Medical Council President.

Landlords should have to bring rental properties up to minimum Building energy ratings. That’s the call from Green Party Senator and Deputy Leader of the Party, Roisin Garvey who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Gary Gannon, Social Democrats TD for Dublin Central has said that Serious thought is needed before any more celebrations take place in Dublin city as it remains ‘unsafe’  His comments come following a knife attack during the Olympics homecoming. We get reaction from CEO of Dublin Town, Richard Guiney.  

The head of Russia's Belgorod region has declared a state of emergency, saying the situation was "extremely difficult" in the border area under Ukrainian bombardment. Belgorod borders Ukraine's Kharkiv region and neighbours Kursk, where Ukraine has launched a surprise offensive in the most significant cross-border attack on Russian soil since World War II. We speak to Nina Khrushcheva, Professor of International Affairs at the New School in New York, and great-granddaughter of Soviet leader Nikita Khrushchev.

We recently spoke to Dr Lisa Cunningham Consultant in Emergency Medicine and a pre hospital physician about the need for improved critical care intervention for road accidents. Shane followed this up with James Lawless Minister of State at the Department of Transport.

Sinn Fein has proposed giving children in Ireland €130 a year to spend on sports and arts activities. We get the details of this proposal with Chris Andrews, TD for Dublin Bay South and Sinn Féin Spokesperson for Sport. 

The use of plain packaging for sweets and confectionery vital in the fight against obesity. That is the view of Professor Donal O’Shea, the HSE Lead for Obesity writing in the Irish Times today. Donal explained why this morning on the show.

Irish teenagers are the best performers in reading literacy in the EU, but has there been a drop in reading books? Some listeners say they’ve noticed fewer readers lounging by the pools on summer holidays. So have people turned to e-books or is there a decline?  Newstalk Reporter Josh Crosbie finds out for us.

Ten prisoners have been taken to hospital after suspected overdoses at Portlaoise Prison. We get the latest from Conor Lally, Security and Crime Editor of The Irish Times. 

As summer draws to a close and kids are getting ready to go back to school many of you might be looking for that last minute holiday to boost your mood  Sinead Kennedy, Author of ‘Life Is a Cycle’ and travel writer spoke to Jonathan this morning with some tips for that last minute holiday.

Former Environment Minister, Richard Bruton has called for greater incentives for rural drivers to make the switch to Electric Vehicles. The calls come as 1 in 5 cars sold in Wicklow since 2020 were electric, while it was just 1 in 29 in Roscommon. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Brian Caulfield, Professor in Transportation at the School of Engineering at Trinity College. 

Taxi drivers are being scared out of the industry as assaults become more common.  This comes as a taxi driver was hospitalised after an assault in Cork City early on Saturday morning   Fore more on this we spoke to Jim Waldron of the National Private Hire and Taxi Association.

Shocking figures reveal just 1% of sexual offenders engage with the State’s treatment programme.  While figures show, the number of convicted sexual offenders is now 4 times higher than in 2018, just 8 of almost 700 sexual offenders in custody are taking part in the Building Better Lives programme.  Speaking to Jonathan on the show this morning was Mary Crilly, CEO of the Sexual Violence Centre Cork.

The dining table is the site of laughter, tears, triumph and failure. If we stop gathering there, we’ll lose more than a place for dinner’   Those are the words of Clare Finney, Food Journalist & author of Hungry Heart: How the Food We Love Shapes Our Lives who joined us on Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Donald Trump’s anticipated “conversation” with X boss Elon Musk was marred by technical issues forcing a long delay to the broadcast. The interview which lasted over 2 hours began with Trump again going in to detail on the assassination attempt on him . Later in the interview, Musk doubled down on his backing for Trump in this November’s election. We get reaction to the interview with Amy Tarkanian, Former Nevada Republican State Chairwoman and Republican Strategist. 

Students’ Unions from Trinity College Dublin, UCD, NCAD & IADT are today asking commuters at Connolly Station to consider renting a room to a student for the coming academic year.  Newstalk Breakfast spoke to Jenny Maguire, Students Union President of Trinity College Dublin. 

An Irishman shot dead after a standoff with police in Malta is the chief suspect in the killing of his ex-partner. Edward William Johnston is believed to have stabbed his ex-partner and Maltese native Nicolett Gur-she.  We get the latest on this with line Mario Xuereb a Journalist with the Times Malta. 

The higher education minister Patrick O'Donovan wants to see an end to single-sex schools, stating "society would be better" with a co-educational model of learning. We asked Barbara Ennis, Principal of Alexandra College should we see an end to single sex schools?   

To pocket money or not to pocket money, that is the question many parents find themselves debating. Could Revolut 18 be the answer?  We ask Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent, Jess Kelly.

Department inaction on teacher recruitment and retention crisis ‘reckless and deeply concerning’” Those are the stark words from the Teachers Union of Ireland ahead of a new school year. Speaking to Jonathan to discuss further was Michael Gillespie, General Secretary of Teachers Union of Ireland. 

An additional €400 million will be announced for sport in the coming weeks. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Thomas Byrne, Minister for Sport.  

Taoiseach Simon Harris has called for an urgent review of the EU‘s trade deal with Israel, following an Israeli strike which killed 93 people and wounded dozens more who were sheltering in a school.  Speaking to Jonathan this morning on the show to discuss further was Daniel Epstein-O'Dowd, Spokesperson for the Ireland-Israel Alliance and Jim Roche, Secretary and PRO of the Steering Committee of the Irish Anti War Movement. 

For the past few months women’s advocate and TikTok star Kelley Daring has been collecting hundreds of anonymous stories from women around the world who have something to confess: they wish they had never had children  We discuss the findings with Dr Ann-Marie Creaven, Associate Professor in Psychology at the University of Limerick.

Russia's military has admitted that Ukrainian forces have advanced far into its territory, stating that it struck troops and equipment located about 30 kilometers from the border.  We get the latest from BBC Ukraine Correspondent James Waterhouse. 

It’s a hero's welcome for Irish Olympians today in Dublin as sports fans are expected to line up on O’Connell Street to celebrate Team Ireland and all their success at the games in Paris.  We got the details from Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan. 

Daniel Wiffen completed the marathon 10km swim in the River Seine this morning, finishing in 18th place, six minutes and 27.4 seconds after the overall leader.   At 7pm this evening, Rhasidat Adeleke will line up with the fastest women on earth in the 400m sprint. Its an exciting day for team Ireland. We heard from Cesil Johnson, PRO for Tallaght Athletic Club, and Andrew Bree, Sports commentator and former Olympic swimmer.

The Restaurant Association of Ireland has reported that a total of 577 cafes, restaurants and food businesses have had to close their doors since the 50% hike in the hospitality sector’s VAT rate.    Shane discusses this issue with Paul Lenehan, President of the Restaurant Association of Ireland and Ken Robinson, Owner of Kafe U in Westmeath that closed in June.

“Forcing your cultural taste on your children isn’t just OK- but it is your moral duty as a parent,” writes Louis Chilton in the UK Independent this week.      So, should we make our children to listen to the music we love?  Who better to talk us through this than Today FM’s Ed Smith.

Almost half of children are bullied, and they don’t feel listened to by adults. That’s according to a wide-ranging new report from the Ombudsman for Children’s Office into the attitudes of children.   To discuss the report findings was Dr Niall Muldoon Ombudsman for Children.

Overcrowding at University Limerick Hospital has caused the HSE to suspend a significant number of planned services across the five hospitals in the UHL group in the Mid-West.  The move has been made to allow UHL deal with the overcrowding issue. However the Irish Hospital Consultant Association have described the move as “unbelievable, unnecessary, and an abandonment of the people of the Mid-West”.  Melanie Cleary is a Spokesperson for the Midwest Hospital Campaign Group spoke to Jonathan this morning.

The Puck Fair, Ireland’s longest-running festival kicks off in Killorglin, Co. Kerry tomorrow. Independent TD for Kerry Michael Healy Rae spoke to Newstalk Breakfast ahead of the Festival opening.

Spanish Police are continuing their hunt for former Catalan Leader Carles Puigdemont after his shock return from a 7 year exile. Mr Puigdemont addressed a crowd of thousands in Barcelona before fleeing with the help of a police officer.  Back in 2017 Spanish police indicted Puigdemont on charges linked to a failed bid for Catalan independence. We get the latest on this story with Stephen Burgen, Contributor with the Guardian.

Ireland officially has now achieved its best ever Olympics are we are still flying high in the medal table.  However, it is putting our funding model under the spotlight. We discuss this further with Ian Mallon, a sports business consultant and columnist of The Pitch with the Irish Examiner.  

The Fleadh Cheoil is in full swing in Wexford and today the town is hoping to add it’s name to the record books!  Whistlers from all over the world will descend on Wexford Park in an attempt to break the record for the Most Tin Whistles played at one time.  Catherine Roche is one of the teachers for the ensemble of musicians and she has been telling us about the attempt.

Eirgrid, which operates the electricity network in Ireland, warned of a possible "mass exodus" of data centres from the country if new connection agreements could not be signed off on.  We spoke to Professor Aoife Foley, Chair in Net Zero Infrastructure at the University of Manchester. 

Driving test pass rates vary widely at different centres around the country. Almost two-thirds fail at one Dublin centre while more than two-thirds pass at a location in Kilkenny . But why is this the case? We spoke to Green Party TD Marc Ó Cathasaigh to discuss further.

Are the days of letting your children outside the house to run wild and free over? With phones it’s now easier to trace their whereabouts and monitor their moves. But does this break their trust and is it overbearing? We discussed with Mary McCarthy Columnist with the Irish Independent.

Contactless payments for public transport must be fast tracked, that’s the call from Fine Gael Councillor Aoibhinn Tormey who explained why to Jonathan this morning. 

Three Taylor Swift concerts due to take place in Vienna have been cancelled after police arrested two suspects who have been accused of planning terrorist attacks. The suspects have been accused of planning attacks across the city including at Swift’s gigs. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning Jess Spencer is a presenter with Spin and was due at tonight’s gig.

Who are Ireland’s renters and who are Ireland’s landlords? That is the focus of a new study from the Residential Tenancies Board which will aim to see how the market in Ireland shifts.  The first report in the series found that Registered private tenancies have risen by 17 thousand in the past year. To discuss the study findings was Brian Galway, Senior Research Officer with The Residential Tenancies Board.

Kellie Harrington made history by becoming the first Irish female athlete to win gold at back-to-back Olympic Games after a split decision over China's Wenlu Yang in the women's 60kg final at Paris 2024.  Kellie Harrington’s former coach, Paddy Osborne gave his reaction to her big win last night.

The amount of national second-hand stock has declined by 50% in ten years, that’s according to new research by property portal MyHome.ie.  We get reaction to this research with Carol Tallan, CEO of the Property District.

Girls as young as seven feel they are held to different beauty standards than boys, according to a survey by Girlguiding.   The findings revealed that many young girls are becoming increasingly self-conscious about their looks and that a significant number are considering cosmetic procedures to fix their insecurities.  We discuss the findings with Psychotherapist and Author Stella O’Malley.

A major change is on the way for life sentences in Ireland with judges set to be given discretion to recommend minimum periods in prison for those sentenced to life. To explain the changes was Minister for Justice Helen McEntee.

It may have just been scrapped in several airports across Europe but airports in the EU are to reimpose the 100 millilitre liquid limit for carry-on luggage on flights.  The move comes into place in September, but it is hoped it will only be on a “temporary” basis. To discuss further we heard from Eoghan Corry Owner and Editor of Travel Extra.   

Convictions of many rioters are set to be completed this week, while police brace for 30 more far-right protests. We get the latest from the UK with Vincent McAvinney, Broadcaster and Journalist.

“What medics like me mostly worry about is the issue of cannabis-related violence and especially homicide, because while cannabis may rarely kill, cannabis users frequently do.”   So writes columnist of The Irish Medical Times, Author and Retired Consultant in Emergency Medicine Dr Chris Luke.  

Stormont Assembly will be recalled later this week to discuss violent scenes that played out after an anti-immigration protest in Belfast.  We get the latest on the situation there with Amanda Fergusson, Freelance Journalist based in Belfast. 

There is a “far greater” risk of significant cyberattacks in Ireland in the next two years than in previous times, the head of Ireland’s National Cyber Security Centre has said.   We discuss this risk further with Kevin Curran, Professor of Cyber Security at Ulster University. 

Being told to cheer up” or “smile more” is a common occurrence for most women, but is it a sign of a wider issue that society expects women to suppress their internal lives?  Writer Rachel Connelly will tell us her reaction to the experience.

Police in Egypt are searching for a man who has gone missing with his two Irish-born children after their mother, Mandy Kelly won a landmark legal challenge in Cairo to have the boys returned to her in Ireland. Mandy spoke to Newstalk Breakfast on this latest development on her search for her sons and for their safe return.

Kamala Harris will announce her Vice President pick tonight ahead of the Philadelphia rally that will kick off a 5 day tour of America’s swing states.   Speaking to Shane this morning on the show was Adam Ledwith, a former adviser to Fianna Fáil in government, political commentator and long-time observer of Kamala Harris’ political career. 

Iran has said it has duty to punish Israel over killing of Hamas leader in Tehran This comes as Irish citizens have been urged not to travel to Israel and Lebanon. Alistair Bunkall, Sky’s Middle East Correspondent brought us the latest on the situation in the Middle East.

Nearly everything on Wall Street tumbled on Monday as fears about a slowing US economy worsen and set off another sell-off for financial markets around the world.   To discuss what has happened on Wall Street was Market Analyst Paul Sommerville.   

There going to be a special concert to mark the 40th anniversary of the Pogues first album Red Roses for Me. The gig will take place at the 3Arena in Dublin on December 17. One of the founding members of The Pogues Spider Stacey tell us about this concert.  

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, James Geoghegan has backed calls for a statue of the late Sinead O’Connor to be erected in Dublin. Despite a longstanding rule in Dublin City Council that you can’t build a statue or a memorial for someone unless they have been deceased for 20 years.  We get the view of Daithi Doolan, Sinn Fein Group Leader on Dublin City Council.

The High Court has refused to grant an emergency injunction to the residents of Dundrum in Co Tipperary to stop asylum seekers being accommodated in a local hotel. It comes as the Integration Minister Roderic O’Gorman insisted asylum seekers will be housed at the site in Dundrum and the Crown Paints factory in Coolock in Dublin. We get reaction to this with Liam Browne Independent Councillor for Cashel Tipperary.

According to David Quinn, Columnist with the Sunday Independent, “There are not enough people using the bike lane going through Fairview and North Strand to remotely justify the money put into them and the disruption caused.”   Are cycle lanes too expensive and disruptive to be justified? Ciara discusses this with David Quinn and Green Party Cllr, Donna Cooney Deputy Lord Mayor of Dublin. 

President Michael D Higgins has come under fire for sending well wishes to the New President of Iran, Masoud Pezeshkian. We ask is it appropriate for Ireland’s President to send well wishes to the new Iranian President? Shane discusses this with Declan Power, Defence and Security Expert.

Ireland’s persistently low breastfeeding rates highlight the urgent need for stronger support and policy reform that's the call from The World Health Organisation. To discuss further we hear from Lynn Carroll, Leche League Leader.

A row has erupted at the boxing at the Olympics over the eligibility of two female boxers. Imane Khelif and Lin Yu-ting were both disqualified from last year’s World Boxing Championships by the International Boxing Association after questions were raised about their gender, however they have both been allowed compete at the Olympics. Italy’s Angela Carini quit 46 seconds into her bout with Khelif yesterday leaving the ring in tears and refusing to shake her opponent’s hand.  Gavin Cooney - Sports Writer with The 42 is in Paris brought us the details.

The High Court has ruled that the State is in breach of human rights law by failing to house almost 3,000 people who have sought international protection in Ireland since last year The case was taken by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. To discuss further Ciara was joined on the show by Michael O’Neill, Head of Legal at the IHREC.

Broadcaster Adrian Chiles wrote in the Guardian about his experience in Galway, where he experienced first-hand what makes the Irish welcome world-famous. Adrian spoke to Shane this morning.

A group of road safety advocates and medical professionals are calling for a meeting with the Taoiseach to help tackle road deaths. The group is calling for improved critical care intervention for road accidents. We discuss this with Dr Lisa Cunningham Consultant in Emergency Medicine and a pre hospital physician. 

Paid parental leave is set to extended from 7 to 9 weeks. The new rules will apply to any child born from today onwards. Parents are entitled to the leave in the first two years of a child’s life.  We get the details with Roderic O'Gorman Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

Recently on the show we delved into the nuts and bolts of the Barnardo's Annual Back to School Survey which found primary school parents spent €119 on uniforms and secondary school parents spent €211 this year. But are school uniforms an outdated concept?  We discus this with Eric Nelligan, Teacher, Assistant Principal and Aontu Spokesperson on Education and also Jen Hogan Journalist and Columnist with The Irish Times.

Israel is braced for retaliation from Iran and Hizbullah after two senior militants were killed in strikes in Beirut and Tehran. We get the latest on this situation from Scott Lucas , Professor of US and International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin. 

The rollout of body cameras for all frontline Guards is set to be extended today to Limerick with units already having been deployed in Dublin since the end of May. To discuss this further Ciara was joined on the show by Frank Thornton, Former President and current Treasurer of the GRA.

Motorists are waking up to more expensive petrol and diesel as the final fuel excise restoration came into place overnight. Excise had been slashed due to the war in Ukraine, however petrol will now be 4 cent a litre more expensive with the increase on diesel 3 cent a litre. Shane discussed these changes with Jennifer Kilduff is the Head of Marketing and PR at The AA.

‘Like suffragettes before them, climate change protesters will be proved right in time’  That’s the view of Elaine Crory, Feminist Activist & Campaigner on the Just Stop Oil protestors. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Elaine along with Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent.

Barnardo's Annual Back to School Survey has been released highlighting the real cost to parents of Ireland’s free education system. We speak to Barnardos CEO Suzanne Connelly on the survey findings.

There was history for Ireland in Paris last night, Daniel Wiffen became the first ever Irish Male swimmer to win Olympic gold taking home the 800 metre freestyle title. Daniel is back in the pool this weekend as he looks to at the 1500 metre title to his collection. We got to talk to Nathan Wiffen – Swimmer and Daniel’s Twin.   

The government along with their counterparts in the North have today unveiled their vision for the future of rail travel in Ireland. The All-Island Strategic Rail Review would see more track, faster trains and a commitment to carbon neutral trains by 2050.We hear from Eamon Ryan Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport.

People Before Profit Dublin TD Bríd Smith formally objects to the Dáil Chamber being made available for a meeting of members of the United States Congress saying there should be no welcome in the Dáil for Israel’s main arms dealer. Brid Smith spoke to Newstalk Breakfast along with Daniel Mulhall, Former ambassador to Britain and the US.

Ireland’s food environment is making us sick according to Dr.Aileen McGloin, Director of Nutrition with Safefood who joined Shane on the show this morning to discuss further.

The government have failed to cut premiums on liability premiums 12 months on from promising just that. That’s the view of the Alliance for Insurance Reform and their CEO Brian Hanley spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Two men in their forties have been killed after a helicopter crashed in County Westmeath. The aircraft is understood to have hit a building in the Jorristown townland, close to Raharney GAA club, between the villages of Raharney and Killucan. We get the latest on this with Graham Liddy Former head of engineering with Air Accident Investigation Unit.

Niksen, the art of doing nothing, is a Dutch phrase that has taken some traction in recent years. Something between mindfulness and balance, the phrase means finding the beauty in the everyday, the normal.To tell us more about Niksen was Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College and author of “Resilience”.

Mona McSharry has won Ireland's first Olympic medal following a stunning finish in the 100m breaststroke final in Paris. Mona was the first Irish swimmer to make an Olympic final this century when she made the 100m breaststroke final in Tokyo, and the 23-year-old has now taken her place on the podium.  Viola McSharry, Mona McSharry’s mum spoke to Newstalk Breakfast on her joy with Mona's win.

James Kilroy was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Valerie French Kilroy yesterday. Valerie’s family have called for a review of the law to prevent those who kill their partners from having parental rights to their children. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was  Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid.

‘From now on, I have decided I’m not sorry for my motherhood. I won’t apologise any more for having kids and wanting a career too.’  So wrote Freelance Writer and Manic Mummy, Emma Armstrong who spoke to Shane this morning on the show.

Two children are dead and six are in critical condition following a knife attack in Southport yesterday afternoon. We got the latest on the mass stabbing with Harry Booth, Bauer Media Reporter at the scene in Southport.

The bang of weed in Dublin is gross. Like it is everywhere. Can we just have a park where they go to smoke (like in Mexico City and I’m sure other cities) and allow the non-smokers to actually breathe and walk around the city. That is the view of Today FM presenter and dietitian Shelly Gray who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

The Government has been accused of ‘Tokenistic engagement’ by a number of medical professions on tackling issues in Children’s Disability Services. The umbrella group called Health and Social Care Professions say it could have an impact on the safety of children with disability. One of the groups criticising the Government is the Irish Association of Speech & Language Therapists and their Chief Operations Officer Edel Dunphy. Edel spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

The arms race in the tech world has been stepped up as Meta releases its biggest open-source AI model yet. Ciara O’Brien, the Technology Writer at the Irish Times brings us the details.

Should we pay smokers to quit the habit? It comes after research from Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the HSE’s Tobacco Free Ireland Programme says it would be cost-effective.   We get a reaction to this research findings from Dr Garrett McGovern by Medical Director at the Priority Medical Clinic in Dundrum and GP addiction specialist.

Israel have vowed that the Lebanese militant group, Hezbollah will “pay the price” as they cast blame for a rocket attack in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights that killed 12 children We got an update on the situation with Paul Rodgers, Professor Emeritus of Peace Studies at Bradford University. 

A number of public sector unions have called on the government for RTÉ-style multiannual funding. We discuss this with  Cormac Lucey, Economics Columnist with Sunday times Ireland.

"A massive overhaul is needed in learner driver training to prevent road deaths". That’s according to the Professional Driving Instructors Association. Dominic Brophy is their director explained to Newstalk Breakfast why this is needed.

‘I’ll happily suck your soul out through your phone for four minutes instead of tapping out a response that would take less than four seconds.’That’s the view of Esther McCarthy, Lifestyle Editor and Saturday Weekend Magazine Columnist with The Irish Examiner’s view on Whatsapp voice notes. Esther explained to Ciara her view on Whatapp voice notes.

Minister of State at the Department of Transport James Lawless has said he supports the introduction of mandatory CCTV in taxis.  Speaking to Ciara this morning was Jim Waldron, Spokesperson for the National Private Hire and Taxi Association.

Ryanair have called on Transport Minister Eamon Ryan to lift the funding cap on Ireland’s Regional Airports. Under the Regional Airports Programme airports with a million or less passengers qualify for government funding, however Ryanair wants this doubled and says the cap punishes airports for “for growing tourism and delivering economic benefit to the regions”. This morning speaking to Jonathan on the show was Eddie Wilson CEO of Ryanair.

Ciara was joined by Professor Annie Curtis of the Royal College of Surgeons, who discussed the science behind why teens find it hard to get out of bed.

Ciara spoke with Donnchadh O’Laoghaire, Sinn Féin TD and party spokesperson for Social Protection, about the reduction in the number of Gardaí assigned to the Garda National Immigration Bureau. O’Laoghaire argued that this reduction reinforces the government’s failure to ensure deportation orders are enforced.

Shane was joined by Olivia Kelly, Dublin Editor with the Irish Times, who outlined the Dublin City Centre Transport Plan set to begin next month despite opposition from some city business interests. Jean McCabe, CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland, also provided her reaction to the plan and its implications for commuters.

Shane was joined by Eoin Sheehan from Off the Ball to discuss the latest Newstalk/Amárach survey, which found that Gaelic football is Ireland’s favorite sport, followed by hurling, soccer, and rugby. They explored what makes Gaelic football so beloved by the nation.

Ciara interviewed Aoife O’Sullivan, who shared her journey of becoming a proud “solo mum by choice” after reaching her 40s without meeting the right partner. She discussed her decision to go down the sperm donor route and her experiences as a solo mother.

Shane was joined by Sarah O’Connor, Director of Partnerships and External Affairs at the Road Safety Authority. They discussed the RSA’s new "Time to Talk" TV ad, launched to address the rising number of fatalities on Irish roads.

Ciara was joined by Media Minister Catherine Martin, who rejected claims that the Government has handed a "blank cheque" to RTÉ as part of its multi-annual funding plan.

Shane was joined by Ronan Keating, Patron of the Marie Keating Foundation, to talk about the 2024 Marie Keating Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic sponsored by Skechers, taking place today at the South Palmer Course at the K-Club.

Ciara was joined by Professor Caitriona Ryan, Consultant Dermatologist at the Institute of Dermatologists, to discuss whether getting manicures, from gel to acrylics, poses health risks and damages natural nails.

Shane was joined by Megan Virgo, freelance travel writer for the Irish Daily Mail, to discuss whether holidaying in Ireland has become prohibitively expensive and if finding good value accommodation is next to impossible.

Ciara was joined by Niall Conroy, Acting Chief Economist at the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, to discuss the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council's warning about the reputational risks for Ireland due to persistent deficits in energy and water.

Shane was joined by Alan Milton, Director of Communications with the GAA, to revisit the discussion about whether cheering during the final moments of Amhrán na bhFiann at sports matches is disrespectful.

Ciara was joined by People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy to discuss his Paid Parental Leave Bill and the upcoming press conference.

Ciara was joined by Claire McManus, Director of JFOC Architects and Housing Spokesperson for the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland, to discuss the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council's report proposing the conversion of vacant office spaces into homes amidst a 14.3% national vacancy rate.

Shane was joined by Sunday Independent Columnist David Quinn to discuss his tweet about the instant demonisation of JD Vance and the canonisation of Kamala Harris, highlighting the mentality that Democrats are good and Republicans are bad.

Ciara was joined by Erica Tierney, Patient Ambassador for the Irish Cancer Society's Leave Our Leave campaign, to discuss new legislation allowing women to defer their maternity leave for up to 52 weeks in cases of serious physical or mental illness.

Shane was joined by Teresa Heeney, CEO of Early Childhood Ireland, to discuss the importance of children freely playing outdoors. They talked about how adults can sometimes hamper children's sense of adventure and the benefits of outdoor play for child development.

Ciara was joined by Fionnan Sheahan, Ireland Editor with The Irish Independent, to discuss the plans for €725 million in public funding for RTE.

Shane was joined by Fianna Fail Senator Mary Fitzpatrick and Tony Gallagher, Former Inspector and now Risk Security & Event Manager with Ashtree Risk Group, to discuss the recent meeting between Fianna Fail and Assistant Garda Commissioner Angela Willis on antisocial behaviour and crime in Dublin.

Ciara was joined by Brian Caulfield, Professor at the School of Engineering at Trinity College Dublin, to discuss the potential introduction of congestion charges. The Department of Finance suggested that congestion charges would be more efficient and equitable in achieving environmental goals compared to a car parking levy.

Shane was joined by Dr. Denise O’Dwyer, Principal Psychologist with the National Learning Network, to explore the significant rise in students unable to return to school or college since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Ciara was joined by Dr. Suzi Lyons, Senior Researcher at the Health Research Board, to discuss the alarming 10% increase in people being treated for problem alcohol use in 2023.

Shane was joined by Sinead Ryan, Consumer Journalist with The Irish Independent and Host of the Home Show on Newstalk, to discuss the upcoming Access to Cash Bill. Minister for Finance Jack Chambers sought Cabinet approval to publish this bill, aiming to secure access to cash for all citizens.

Shane was joined by Gary O’Hanlon, executive chef at the K Club, to discuss his culinary journey.

As part of Newstalk's Summer Tour, Ciara was joined by John Costelloe, Sales and Marketing Director of the K Club, to explore the various amenities the K Club offers, from spa treatments to golf and even segwaying.

Ciara was joined by Mike Trujillo, a Democratic political strategist, to discuss the backing of US Vice President Kamala Harris by Nancy Pelosi and other key Democrats. They analysed her potential as the leading Democratic candidate for the 2024 Presidential Election.

Shane was joined by Liam Browne, Independent Councillor for Cashel Tipperary, to discuss the meeting between the Department of Integration and locals in Dundrum village, County Tipperary. The meeting followed weeks of demonstrations at Dundrum House Hotel, which is set to accommodate International Protection Applicants.

Shane was joined by Barry Kenny, Corporate Communications Manager with Iarnrod Eireann, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the DART.

Newstalk reporter Henry McKean visited the Hartwell Stud in Kill in County Kildare. He spoke with the McCann and Lyons families, who have been dedicated to their craft for generations. He also had an amusing encounter with a foal named Nugget, who bit him during the visit.

Ciara and Shane were out and about exploring the grounds of the K Club. They shared their experiences and observations from their wander around the beautiful estate, giving listeners a taste of what the K Club has to offer.

Ciarawas joined by Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University, to discuss the potential deal between IALPA and Aer Lingus. IALPA recommended accepting Labour Court proposals, including a 17.75% pay increase for pilots over four years.

Shane was joined by Fine Gael Councillor for Arklow, Sylvester Bourke, to pay tribute to 11-year-old Clodagh Phelan from Co Wicklow, who tragically died after falling from a hotel balcony in Majorca, Spain.

Ciara was joined by Sheena Mitchell, Pharmacist and Host of the WonderCare Podcast, to discuss the effectiveness of HomeKit alcohol breathalysers. This follows a recent discussion on the prevalence of drink driving and how individuals can check their alcohol levels the morning after.

Ciara was joined by Jess Kelly, Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent, to discuss the ongoing fallout from the global IT outage on Friday. They talked about the rise of scam websites offering to fix devices and how businesses can protect themselves.

Ciara was joined by Christy Galligan, Former Garda Sergeant, to discuss the recent fires at the former Crown Paints factory, which is being repurposed to house asylum seekers, and the need for better resources for Gardaí to deal with such protests.

Shane was joined by Bob Mullholland, Campaign Advisor to the Californian Democratic Party and a Biden Delegate, to discuss Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 presidential race and endorsing Kamala Harris. Our reporter Josh Crosbie gathered reactions from American voters in Chicago.

Ciara was joined by Donal Clifford, Psychotherapist & Founder of the SALT Sex and Love Therapy in Cork, to discuss the increasing calls for more education on problematic sexual behaviour and its harmful effects, especially among young people.

Newstalk reporter Henry McKean reported on the Local Link bus service. Originally set up to support rural Ireland, the service has recently stopped picking up passengers in isolated parts of the Waterford countryside. Henry visited Old Parish and Dungarvan to find out why.

Shane was joined by Professor Caitriona Ryan, Consultant Dermatologist at the Institute of Dermatologists, to discuss An Tánaiste Mícheál Martin's call for a ban on sunbeds. They explored whether such a ban could potentially do more harm than good.

Ciara was joined by David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian, to discuss the significant news that President Joe Biden has pulled out of the 2024 US Presidential race. Our reporter, Josh Crosbie, gathered reactions from American voters in Chicago.

According to the Times of London, the reason inflation remains so high is due to the rise of “treatonomics,”. That’s when people prioritize spending on fun stuff and cut back elsewhere instead.    Is this what is stopping banks dropping interest rates any further spending spend over and above on the likes of concert tickets or flat white lattes? We discussed with Siobhan Maguire, Consumer Journalist.

Donald Trump spoke at the Republican National Convention yesterday when the former president accepted the party’s presidential nomination. We discuss the highlights of the speech with David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian.

Recently Taoiseach Simon Harris suggested the future funding of public service broadcasting will be through a combination of the TV licence and exchequer funding.  The Government is finalising plans for a so-called hybrid model of the TV licence that will include a form of the annual charge on Irish households and multi-annual funding.   We get reaction to this with Thomas Gould, Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central. 

Ireland’s COVID Inquiry plans are set to be published before the end of the Dail’s Summer Recess. The Tanaiste has confirmed there are details still to be finalised, such as what the Inquiry would look like? We discussed with Michael McNamara, MEP & Former Chairperson of Special Covid Committee. 

Economists have suggested that lower earners should pay some income tax to broaden Ireland's tax base, as currently 20% of taxpayers contribute 80% of all taxes. Is this a good idea? We asked Dr Barra Roantree, Director of MSC in economic policy at Trinity College Dublin. 

Donald Trump making his presidential acceptance speech at the Republican National Convention. Our own reporter, Josh Crosbie has been there all week and has just left the convention. Josh explained what the speech like and the crowd reaction to it.

Conor Lally, Security and Crime Editor of The Irish Times gave us the details on a suspected arson attack at Coolock site earmarked for asylum seekers.

Scientists at Imperial College London have developed an anti-ageing drug that could extend lifespan by 25%, prevent cancer, and reverse signs of ageing. Have we discovered the elixir of life? We discuss with Kingston Mills, Professor of Experimental Immunology at Trinity College Dublin.

The Government is looking to break motorists’ car addiction with bike buying incentives and more discounted fares for frequent public transport users. But will they work? We discussed this with John Gibbons, Environmental Journalist.

The period following the birth of a new baby is particularly sensitive for new parents. Even though you may not intend to offend, well-meaning but poorly chosen comments can be received very negatively.  Speaking to Ciara this morning to discuss further Iseult White, Psychotherapist and Author. 

"Blatant and blunt threat on my life” those are the words Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald has used to describe the sinister death threat that appeared on the social media platform TikTok Tuesday afternoon. Mary Lou spoke to Newstalk Breakfast on what she has been experienced over the last year and this week.

Southern Europe bakes in heatwave with hotter temperatures on the way, while Italy places 12 cities under the most severe heat warning as temperatures soar above 40 degrees. But where’s Ireland’s heatwave? We ask Gerry Murphy, Meteorologist with Met Eireann.

Donald Trump is to be officially crowned Republican Candidate later tonight at the party’s National Convention in Milwaukee. JD Vance spoke overnight he very much spoke of his blue collar credentials and his troubled upbringing. We got reaction to his first speech with Former Nevada Republican State Chairwoman and Republican Strategist Amy Tarkanian.

The European Parliament will today vote on whether Ursula Von Der Leyen will serve a second term as president of the European Commission.  Despite being part of a coalition of parties that is supporting Ms Von Der Leyen, none of Fianna Fáil’s four MEPs will vote for her re-election, a move that has been criticised by Fine Gael. Barry Andrews Fianna Fail MEP for Dublin explained this decision to Ciara this morning.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland is warning parents about the health risks of slush ice drinks for young children. We discuss the health risk with Dr Wayne Anderson, FSAI Director of Food Science and Standards.

When it comes to US politics the merchandise, posters and slogans play a central role in the campaigns from both sides. The Republican National Convention is ongoing in Milwaukee and as expected, Make America Great Again hats are selling out. Our reporter, Josh Crosbie is there and has been meeting with some Trump fans and also finding out how the election is shaping up.  

The State ‘should help developers to build more homes for rent’, that’s according to a government review. Speaking to Shane to discuss further wasCarol Tallon, CEO of Property District.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee gave her response to the ongoing protests scenes in Coolock.

An investigation is under way by gardaí after an under-15 hurling championship match was abandoned on Monday evening following a brawl involving players, mentors and supporters.  We get a reaction from Liam O’Neill, Former GAA President. 

Now last week on the show we heard calls from the Climate Change Advisory Council for people to ditch the open fire. However it appears many in Rural Ireland want the cosy fire to remain in the home with turfcutting remaining a staple in the Irish household.  Henry McKean visited a bog on the Galway - Roscommon border, beside the N60 road.  He sent this report. 

Ireland has five times more cabinet members with no third-level education compared with UK equivalents. We discuss this with Dr Eoin O'Malley, Associate Professor of Politics at DCU.

For the first time in nearly 15 years, a reigning British monarch will, later today, set out a Labour’s government’s plans for the UK. We ask what will Labour's government plans be for the UK with Stephen Pound, Former Labour MP for Ealing North (and former Northern Ireland Shadow Minister).

“It’s no wonder so many of us are lonely. Friendship has become harder and more complex” so writes Irish Times Journalist Laura Kennedy.  We ask how can we make friends in later life with Stephanie Regan, Clinical Psychotherapist and Co-Host of podcast, ‘Tough Love’. 

Long-term exposure to pollution from solid fuels increases the risk of poorer mental health that’s according to a new ESRI study.  We discussed the findings with Professor Anne Nolan, Research Professor with the ESRI. 

A bandaged Donald Trump appeared to rapturous applause at the Republican National Convention as he revealed his 2024 running mate, JD Vance last night.  We speak to David Smith Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian to get reaction.

Yesterday Gardaí charged at least 15 people following wide-ranging disorder at a site in Coolock that is due to be developed to house asylum seekers.   Henry McKean was at the scene and spoke to locals there.Demonstrators hurled rocks and fireworks at gardaí throughout the day, while pepper spray has been used by gardaí responding to the incidents. We speak to Paul Murphy, People before Profit TD.

Too many motorists admit drink driving the law just does not seem to deter them. So says Motoring Editor with the Sunday Independent, Geraldine Herbert who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Donald Trump has made his first public appearance since the shooting. The former president was welcomed to chants of fight, fight, fight at the Republican Convention last night in Milwaukee. Appearing with a bandaged ear, Trump didn’t address the crowd on the first night the event. Our reporter, Josh Crosbie is there and has been asking Republican Party members how they feel about the assassination attempt.

Pensioners are joining the workforce at the fastest rate of any age cohort in Ireland, according to the Central Statistics Office. What is causing pensionable workers rejoining or staying in the workforce for longer?   Shane discusses this with Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director at Futurewise. 

Fifteen people were in court yesterday evening charged in connection with disturbances at a disused paint factory designated as accommodation for international protection applicants in Coolock North Dublin. Three garda cars were damaged during the disturbances, including one set on fire.We get local reaction from Mícheál McDonnacha, Sinn Fein Councillor for Donaghmede. 

Kids across the country are settling into the summer holidays, and that may mean some parents are battling against increased screentime and concerns around what their child is doing online. Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent, Jess Kelly tell us how to monitor your children's screetime.All with thanks to Bird & Bird.

A recruitment freeze at the HSE that has been in place since last year will end today, according to HSE Chief Executive Bernard Gloster.   This follows last week’s announcement that an additional €1.5 billion will be allocated for the health service this year. Speaking to Ciara this morning was Tony O’Brien former Director General of the HSE, Strategic Advisor and columnist with The Sunday Independent. 

Josh Crosbie is in America and in particular, he’s in Milwaukee where the Republican National Convention is being held. He gave us a feeling on the ground there.  Also speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more reaction was Stephen Moore, Economist at The Heritage Foundation and Current economic Adviser to the Trump 2024 campaign and also Stephen Moore, Economist at The Heritage Foundation and Current economic Adviser to the Trump 2024 campaign.

"Play is not just a frivolous activity; it's a fundamental component of our lives” so says Dr Richard Hogan, Family Psychotherapist and author  of “Home is where the start is” and Richard told us why this morning.

‘Women should look well for their husbands, otherwise he will look around and it will be your fault ’So says Actress and Fair City star Tatiana Ouliankina and Tatiana spoke to Shane to discuss her statement further.

Councils are owed more than €20.5 million in unpaid levies from the owners of hundreds of derelict sites. Data obtained by Social Democrats shows many councils are not collecting the charge or received minuscule payments last year compared with what they are owed.  Joining Ciara this morning on the show was Rory Hearne, Associate Professor of Social Policy Maynooth University and author of Gaffs. 

The attempted assassination of Donald Trump at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night has dominated the news headlines. For the latest on this we heard from David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief of The Guardian. 

The Road safety authority have launched a new campaign aimed at raising awareness of the dangerous behaviours on Irish roads . We got details of the new campaign with Sarah O’Connor, Director of Partnerships and External affairs at the RSA.

With so much going on around the country this weekend between matches and gigs, you may be planning to have a few drinks.  How can we avoid the dreaded fear or hangxiety- the next morning? Ciara was joined on the show by Laura Dowling, known as The Fabulous Pharmacist online.

Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys is set to announce plans today to outlaw the breeding, importing, selling or rehoming of XL Bullys from October this year.   Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Donal Ryan, Vet and owner of City Vet, Limerick.   

President Joe Biden held his first solo press conference since the disastrous debate last night at the end of the NATO summit. However before the conference even started he suffered yet another embarrassing gaffe. We get reaction from Bob Mullholland, Campaign Advisor to the Californian Democratic Party.

Is a child-free retreat the answer for parents looking to reconnect with themselves?  Writer Saima Mir did just that by taking a month-long writers retreat in Italy, away from her husband and three children. Saima explained how she found the experience.

 “Ireland is addicted to prisons” so says Former Mountjoy Governor John Lonergan  who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast.

People with cancer are waiting too long for treatment in Ireland. That’s the view of Dr Michael McCarthy, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Secretary of the Irish Society of Medical Oncology who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning. 

Cathal Crotty was discharged from the Defence forces at one minute to midnight He was given was given a three-year suspended sentence for beating Natasha O'Brien unconscious in the random attack in Limerick city on 29 May 2022. Speaking to Ciara this morning was Diane Byrne from Women of Honor. 

The West cork literary festival begins tomorrow, and one author attending is Irvine Welsh, author of trainspotting. Shane caught up with Irvine ahead of his appearance at the festival.

“We urgently need to phase out fossil fuels from our homes and workplaces” those are the calls from the Climate Change Advisory Council on the publication of their Built Environment Sector Annual Review. It's Chair, Marie Donnelly explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

The Labour party has called for an urgent and comprehensive response to securing and growing creative spaces in Dublin and across the country.  The party claims that “culture cannot compete with capitalism”..  For more on this Ciara spoke to Irma McLoughlin, Interim Director of Performing Arts Forum.

The Irish Airline Pilots Association is to recommend acceptance of a Labour Court recommendation aimed at resolving its pay dispute with Aer Lingus. IALPA will suspend its work-to-rule at the airline while it awaits the outcome of a ballot of pilots. We get the latest on this with Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University and also Claire Dunne, CEO of Irish Travel Agents Association. 

A study from the Central statistic office has found that less than half of people say they trust the Government and just one in four trust political parties  We discuss the findings with Psychotherapist and Author of What your Teen is Trying To Tell You, Stella O’Malley.  

Dublin members of the Fianna Fail parliamentary party are calling for a 24/7 criminal district court. We discuss why with Fianna Fail Senator Mary Fitzpatrick.

The man suspected of killing the wife and two daughters of BBC racing correspondent John hunt has been apprehended.  He was taken to hospital yesterday evening after police tracked him down. The bodies of Carol Hunt and her two daughters, Louise and Hannah, were found at their home. We get the latest on this with Vincent McAvinney, Broadcaster and Journalist.

Not a day goes by that we don’t hear about the pros and cons of the Dublin city transport plan. Will it go ahead? We asked Richard Shakespeare, CEO of Dublin City Council.      

Taoiseach Simon Harris has vowed to intervene to help an Irish woman who has been charged with attempted suicide and consuming alcohol in the UAE city of Dubai The case of Tori Towey was raised in the Dáil yesterday. To discuss further Shane was joined on the show by the  CEO of Detained in Dubai Radha Stirling.

More uncertainty for passengers as Aer Lingus pilot’s seeks clarity on the Labour Court’s proposals. We got the latest from Eoghan Corry, Owner and Editor of Travel Extra.

A total package of €8.3 billion outlined in the Summer Economic Statement sets the scene for the coalition’s final budget later this year, Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohue joined us on the show.

Fuels for Ireland, the representative body for fuel retailers, is urgently calling on the Minister for Finance and the Government to postpone the planned excise duty increase on fuels set for August 1st.  Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was CEO of Fuels for Ireland Kevin McPartlan. 

Toll plaza operators should make the All-Ireland hurling final a ‘toll free’ day. That's the call from Fine Gael Senator Tim Lombard who explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

More than one in four parents are in debt to cover back to school costs, according to new research by the Irish League of Credit Unions. It also found that 62% of parents say that covering the cost of back to school is a financial burden.   We discuss the findings of the research with David Malone, CEO of the Irish league of Credit Unions.

In advance of the Budget, there have been proposals to cut inheritance tax once again. To discuss further we heard from Barra Roantree, Director of the MSc in Economic Policy at Trinity College Dublin.

The Irish Hospice Foundation have today launched ‘Time to Talk, Tomorrow Starts Today’ - with the aim of encouraging people to speak about dying and grieving.  We discuss with Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin and Author of “Resilience” .

Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions decreased by 6.8 per cent in 2023 with reductions in almost all sectors.   This is the lowest that greenhouse gas emissions have been in three decades. To discuss further we heard from Mary Frances Rochford, EPA Programme Manager.

Aer Lingus has accepted a Labour Court recommendation of a 17.75% pay increase for pilots while IALPA are yet to respond as their executive meets later today.  Could the strikes be nearing the end?   We ask Professor Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University. 

Public transport should be completely free, according to People Before Profit, who are also calling to scrap tolls on the M50 and East Link to lessen traffic going through the city centre.   Speaking to Shane this morning was Conor Reddy, People Before Profit Councillor for Ballymun-Finglas. 

The expansion of housing on our canals should be investigated that's according to Marc O’Cathasaigh, Green Party TD and Spokesperson for Social Protection who spoke to Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

The Taoiseach has called Russia's missile attack on the main children's hospital in Kyiv "a war crime". Simon Harris also accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of "openly targeting civilian infrastructure and innocent children". We heard from Ukrainian MP Lesia Vasylenko. 

“The most pointless article of clothing in history has met its end” according to Liam Collins, reporter with the Irish Independent who believes the necktie has become a thing of the past. Liam told us why on Newstalk Breakfast.

There’s a new kind of online fraud being reported - and this time, the streaming giants are being targeted. We get the details from Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent, Jess Kelly.All with thanks to Bird & Bird.

What does the Summer Economic Statement have in store, and what could it tell us about the Budget spending in October? Speaking to Ciara this morning on the show was Niall Conroy, Acting Chief Economist at the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council.

 Multiple female footballers have claimed they were subjected to unwanted or inappropriate sexual advances from FAI coaches in the 1990s.   For more than two years, RTÉ and the Sunday Independent have been jointly investigating concerns and last night the documentary aired. The named coaches deny all wrongdoing   To get reaction to this Ciara spoke to Niamh Smyth, Fianna Fail TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht.

A Cork City Councillor has put down a motion calling for a separation of Church and State.   Social Democrats Councillor for Cork City, Padraig Rice, is calling for the end to prayer at the start of every council meeting and to remove the crucifix from the Council chamber.  Padraig explained why to Newstalk Breakfast.

The new leader of the Green Party will be announced today, with Minister Roderic O’Gorman and Senator Pippa Hackett bidding to replace Eamon Ryan.   Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was John Downing, Political Correspondent with the Irish Independent and former Press Advisor to the Green Party.   

Irish teenagers are selling content on the adult subscription site OnlyFans because they get no money from their parents and it is “easier” than getting a job that's according to a leading charity.   Speaking to Shane this morning to discuss further was Fiona Jennings is the Head of policy and public affairs with the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children. 

France's far-right National Rally has failed to win a majority in parliamentary elections with official results show a victory for the left-wing New Popular Front alliance. We get the latest from Journalist John Lichfield, who is based in France.

To round up today's coverage of the UK Election, Barry Whyte, Newstalk’s Chief Reporter, joined Ciara to provide further insights into the election outcomes. And was this vote all about kicking The Tories out? The people of London tell us what they think.

Ciara is joined by Lord Ming Campbell, former Liberal Democrat leader and MP for North East Fife in response to the latest UK election results, and the achievement for the party.

A well-known English broadcaster, Janet Street-Porter, has accused an Irish rental car company of age discrimination after being asked to provide a letter from her GP to prove she was fit to drive. Shane spoke with Noel Cunningham, Ambassador for Harvey's Point Donegal, to discuss whether Ireland is ageist.

In light of the recent political events, Shane spoke with Micheal Martin, Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, to discuss the implications for Ireland and the broader political landscape.

Shane delved into more details on the outcome of the UK elections, speaking with Martin Docherty-Hughes, Scottish National Party politician for West Dunbartonshire. They discussed the implications of the election results and what they mean for the political landscape in the UK.

Continuing the UK election coverage, Ciara and Shane spoke with Stephen Pound, former Labour MP for Ealing North and former Shadow Minister for Northern Ireland, Edwina Curry, former British Conservative Minister, and Mary Lou McDonald, President of Sinn Féin.

The UK election results are in, marking significant changes in the political landscape. Ciara spoke with Lauren McEvatt, former UK Government Special Advisor, and Michael White, former Political Editor of The Guardian, to provide an early analysis of the outcomes and their implications. They are later joined by former Conservative MP Dominic Grieve about the latest developments.

Joe Biden is staying in the White House race, his spokeswoman confirmed, stating he is "absolutely not" withdrawing. This comes despite pressure after his challenging debate against Donald Trump Speaking to Shane this morning was Niall O’Dowd, Founder of Irish Central .Com Irish Voice Newspaper and Irish America Magazine.

Avoiding certain food due to texture, having little interest in eating food and worrying about eating are all symptoms of Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, also known as ARFID.  To tell us more we spoke to Louise Lennox, Chef & Children’s Fussy Eating Expert. 

The State took in a total of €44.7 billion in tax in the first six months of the year, up more than 9% on the same period last year, the latest exchequer returns show. Minister for Finance Jack Chambers joins us on Newstalk Breakfast this morning.

Last night, the Dáil has approved Ireland's participation in an EU military initiative aimed at protecting critical seabed infrastructure, amidst heated debates over the nation's neutrality. Joining Ciara this morning on the show to discuss further was Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South West.

The polls have opened for what is expected to be an historic UK General Election. Labour are expected to win a massive majority, while the Conservative Party are facing an embarrassing wipeout. Our Chief Reporter Barry Whyte now joined us from London.

An Taoiseach, Simon Harris has said the GAA should listen to the grassroots of the GAA as he reaffirmed his stance on GAA Go saying that Gaelic games should not be behind a paywall. To discuss this further was Liam O’Neill, Former President of the GAA.

A new government report has found that Irish people have a high awareness of climate change, but a gap exists between intention and action.  We heard from Sadhbh O’Neill, independent researcher and commentator on climate policy.

Labour Court set to issue recommendation to end row over pilots' pay at Aer Lingus as dozens more flights cancelled We get the latest from Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University. 

Australia has become the first country in the world to ban the sale of vapes outside of pharmacies. Under the new laws, e-cigarettes can be sold only in plain colours and packaging from July 1.  For more on this Ciara spoke to Professor Luke Clancy, Director General of the Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland and consultant respiratory physician.

For most young adults in Ireland owning a home is a faraway dream, but for one couple thinking outside the box was what was required to fulfil that dream. Joining Newstalk Breakfast to discuss her tiny, affordable house and how it came to be was Emma O’Hagan, Outdoor Adventure Host and Owner of the Tiny House Project. 

A new report by the EPA released today has revealed the number of people served by “at risk” public water supplies has increased again in 2023. We spoke to Noel Byrne, Programme Manager in the Office of Environmental Enforcement in the EPA and also Dr Jean O’Dwyer, From the Water Quality Team of Research at University College Cork.

Both sides in the Aer Lingus pilots’ pay row will return to the Labour Court later today as the latest bid to end the dispute continues. Shane spoke to the Minister of State at the Department of Transport with special responsibility for International and Road Transport and Logistics James Lawless.

In May 2023 alone, approximately 13.8 million people, representing a third of all adults using the internet, viewed porn online. My next guest argues that we should address porn addiction with the same seriousness as alcohol and gambling addiction. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Dr Paula Hall, from Pivotal Recovery in the UK.

Sweden have launched a groundbreaking new law that would entitle grandparents to get paid parental leave while taking care of their grandchildren for 3 months of a child’s first year of life With more on this we spoke to Esther McCarthy, Lifestyle Editor with The Irish Examiner and Weekend Magazine Columnist. 

The report “Future Business Model Plans and Long-Term Vision for the Media Sector” is launched today.  We speak to Niamh Smyth, Cavan TD and chair of the Joint Committee on Tourism, Culture, Arts, Sports and Media.

The number of historical sex offences being faced by former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has increased. This comes as he is due before Newry Magistrates Court this morning with his wife, Eleanor for a preliminary enquiry to establish whether there is sufficient evidence for a trial We get the latest on this with Amanda Ferguson, Freelance Journalist based in Belfast.

Two members of the same family died on Tuesday evening when the car in which they were travelling collided with a lorry in Co Mayo. We speak to Fr John Durkan, Parish Priest Swinford Co. Mayo on this tragedy.

In the Economist’s annual Global Liveability ranking, Dublin was one of the cities to experience the biggest drop in ranking compared to last year, slipping down in the rankings to 39th. What do we need to do to improve the standard of living in Irish cities?   We ask Duncan Stewart, Environmentalist and Architect and John Moran, Mayor of Limerick.  

Almost half of the people surveyed for a new study said they have used sunbeds despite knowing the risks to their skin and many who sunbathe believe it is worth getting “slightly sunburned” to get a tan. We get reaction to Isabel Haugh Consultant Dermatologist.

The US Supreme Court ruled that Donald Trump, as a former president, enjoys some immunity from prosecution, a ruling that may delay his trial for conspiring to overturn the 2020 US presidential election. We get reaction from Mick Mulvaney, former Chief of Staff for Donald Trump and Chair of Actum Global Consultants. 

The dispute between Aer Lingus management and the Irish Air Line Pilots' Association continues to rumble on with a formal Labour Court hearing to take place tomorrow. We speak to Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University. 

Dublin City Council is calling for the introduction of a hotel tourist tax  But will this tax work to help improve our capital for everyone, or is this just another weight on a heavily taxed industry? We discuss with   Hotelier Lorraine Sweeney and Green Party Councillor for Dublin North Inner-city Janet Horner. 

In years gone by dropping in unannounced to friends and neighbours was commonplace.  These days we are more likely to call ahead before calling in to see someone. So, has the spontaneity of visiting people on a whim become a thing of the past? We asked Columnist with the Farming Independent, Jim O’ Brien.

Latest figures from the Society of the Irish Motor Industry reveal the sale of EVs are down for a 4th month in a row.  Ciara discusses these figures with Phil Barnes, Geotab’s Business Development Manager for Ireland and UK. 

The population is expected to increase by over 900K between 2022 and 2040. According to the latest ESRI report, over 50,000 dwelling per year could be needed to keep pace with demand. To discuss further Shane was joined on the show by Dr Paul Egan, Research Officer, ESRI.

 Waste collection companies have warned they may increase prices for recycling bin collections to make up for the loss of plastic bottles and drinks cans to the Deposit Return Scheme. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast with more on this was Kevin Swift, Regional Waste Co-ordinator Connacht Ulster.

Elaine Burke, host of the For Tech’s Sake Podcast explains what has been happening in the world of AI.  All with thanks to Bird & Bird.

The Far-right National Party leads in the first round of the French elections. Author and Paris-based journalist Lara Marlowe is with us for reaction. 

Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail Emer Higgins has said she will ask Dublin City Council to pause the Dublin transport plan that is due to come into effect in August because of concerns about the impact it could have on jobs and retail sales in the city. We get reaction from Louis Copeland, Owner of Louis Copeland & Sons and also Michael Pigeon, Leader of the Green Party group on Dublin City Council. 

Our inheritance tax system is state-approved grave robbery” those are the words of Alan Shatter, Former Justice, Equality and Defence minister and is chairperson of the Inheritance Tax Reform Campaign. Alan spoke to Jonathan this morning on the calls for a reform.

Poor diets, inactivity, and air pollution as well as the lack of access to nature all negatively affect people’s health, Irish Doctors for the Environment has said in an open letter to all 949 councillors.  Dr Ola Løkken Nordrum, Operations Officer Irish Doctors for the Environment explained to Shane what exactly they are calling for?  

From today women from the age of 17 to 35 will be eligible for free contraception. But does the scheme go far enough?  We speak to Monaghan based G.P. Dr. Illona Duffy.

France's far right has made big gains in the first round of the parliamentary election. For an update from France Jonathan spoke to Cole Stangler , Independent journalist based in Marseille, France. And author of Paris Isn't Dead Yet: Surviving Gentrification in the City of Light. 

The National Women’s Council has said that unduly lenient sentencing as seen in Cathal Crotty receiving a suspended sentence for violently attacking Natasha O’Brien, has exposed implementation deficits in the government’s Zero Tolerance Strategy on violence against women.Jonathan spoke to The National Womens Council’s Violence Against Women Coordinator Ivanna Youtchak.

Taylor Swift brings her epic Eras Tour to Dublin this weekend, when over 150,000 Swifties will descend on Ireland's capital to witness the megastar journey through her almost 20-year career. Shane spoke to Pascal Donohue, Minister for Public Expenditure, President of the Eurogroup. Fine Gael TD for Dublin Central and Claire O’Malley, Taylor Swift superfan. 

The Irish Air Line Pilots' Association (IALPA) union’s disputes committee will meet this morning to consider further strike action by pilots at Aer Lingus. This comes as talks between them and Aer Lingus broke down yesterday. We speak to Michael Doherty, Professor in Employment Law at Maynooth University to get a reaction to a possible escalation. Also Clare Dunne, CEO of Irish Travel Agents Association joined us to explain how the strike is effective the travel agents industry.

‘Anyone who starts their day with highly processed sweet stuff, such as cereal or croissants, sets themselves up for a roller coaster of blood sugar peaks and troughs which make impulse control and concentration difficult.’ So says Dr Alex Richardson, Founder Director of Food and Behaviour Research, UK who spoke to Johnathan this morning on the show.

We return to presidential debate in the US and that rather disastrous performance by Joe Biden. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Patti Shields the chair of the Irish branch of Democrats Abroad.  

More than 650m passengers have travelled on the Luas since the launch of the Green line from Sandyford to St Stephen’s Green 20 years ago. We speak to Doireann Ni Bhriain, broadcaster and voice of the Luas and Olivia Kelly, Dublin Editor for the Irish Times.

Tragedy struck Waterford yesterday as two teenage boys lost their lives in a collision between a bus and an e-scooter. 15-year-old Gilbert Collins was pronounced dead at the scene, while a 17 year old Abuzwa Idris was taken to Waterford University Hospital but died yesterday evening.  We spoke to Fianna Fail Cllr and Mayor of Waterford City and County Jason Murphy on this awful tragedy.

It may still be 131 days until voters go to the polls in the US election but the two candidates locked horns overnight. President Joe Biden and Former President Donald Trump met in a TV debate on CNN in what was the first of only two scheduled debates this campaign.  We get reaction to the debate from David Smith Washington DC Bureau Chief of The Guardian.