
Newstalk Breakfast
Presented by Anton Savage, a seasoned broadcaster and communications expert, this show has everything you need – and want – to know first thing each morning, brought to you with insight, intelligence and wit. It is Ireland's national independent talk station for news, sport, analysis and entertainment.
Episodes
IAA proposing to cut Dublin Airport airlines charges
The aviation regulator has proposed cutting the charges airlines pay to use Dublin Airport by 15 per cent from 2027. Airlines have welcomed the move, while DAA says it needs higher charges to fund expansion. Travel Journalist Eoghan Corry discussed this further with Anton.
Are heatwaves the new normal for Irish summers ?
Ireland is experiencing its third round of unusually hot temperatures in just six weeks. Is this summer heat going to become the new normal, and is Ireland prepared for that? Anton discusses this further with Darren Clarke, Assistant Professor in Climate in DCU.
Why bees are affected by heatwave
You might have noticed in recent weeks more bees dead on footpaths and struggling in the summer heat. To explain all was Eanna Ní Lamhna, Biologist, Environmentalist, Broadcaster and Irish Times contributor.
Back to school costs are weighing heavily on families
New research from the Irish League of Credit Unions shows school costs are weighing heavily on families. With 59% of parents saying covering back to school costs is a financial burden.Anton discusses this further with David Malone, the CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions.
The Government is considering a generational smoking ban
The Government is considering a generational smoking ban which would eventually lead to the purchase of cigarettes being illegal for young people. To discuss this further with Anton was Professor Des Cox, Consultant in Paediatric Respiratory Medicine at CHI Crumlin and Representative of RCPI Advisory Group on Tobacco and Vaping.
The battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz intensifies
The US-Iran standoff is intensifying. With the key global shipping route, the strait of Hormuz once again at the centre of the latest developments. CEO of Henderson Risk Group, Former British Army Officer & Former UK Diplomat, Duncan Bullivant gave us an update on the situation.
Edwina Currie pays tribute to Ann Widdecombe
In the UK, investigations continue into the death of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe. Counter terrorism police are now leading the investigation after "new information and evidence".To pay tribute to her late friend was Edwina Currie, Former Conservative MP and Minister.
Hosepipe ban in place for six counties until late August
Uisce Éireann has announced a hosepipe ban for Dublin, South Tipperary and parts of Kildare, Meath, Wexford and Wicklow. This will will kick in on Thursday and remain in place until August 26. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast was Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations at Uisce Eireann.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council, Former Minister, and Senior Council.
Should we introduce a language proficiency requirement for Irish citizenship?
Tánaiste Simon Harris has said there is “merit in considering” a language proficiency requirement for Irish citizenship. Ireland remains one of the few European countries that does not require a formal language proficiency test for naturalisation To discuss this issue further with Anton was Independent Ireland TD for Cork North-Central, Ken O Flynn and Immigration lawyer and
Calls to end “gimmicks and giveaways” in Budget 2027
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has said that the Government must end “gimmicks and giveaways” and deliver a workers' budget, as part of its pre-Budget submission. Speaking to Anton to discuss further was Owen Reidy, ICTU General Secretary.
Could co-housing for over-50s ease Ireland's housing crisis?
A new survey has found that more than 90 per cent of over-50s would move from larger family homes into a cohousing community if one were available. Cohousing Communities Ireland says a lack of suitable housing is preventing many older people from rightsizing. Cohousing Communities Ireland Chair and Co-founder, Anne Connolly discuss this issue further with Anton.
The business of Cabinet today
Criminalising extreme porn, a mid-year review of the state's housing plan. Anew report from the Criminal Assets Bureau will be discussed at Cabinet this morning. To look ahead to the business of Cabinet today was Sean Defoe, Newstalk Political Correspondent.
Boyfriend of Jamey Carney is detained in Jordan
Gardaí believe a man detained in Jordan is Ahmad Al Saqar. The boyfriend of murdered American woman Jamey Carney, and the prime suspect in her killing. No arrest request has been made by Irish authorities, who say the murder investigation is still at an early stage. We get the latest on this with Irish Times Crime and Security Editor, Conor Lally .
Actor Sam Neil has died at the age of 78
Tributes are being paid to actor Sam Neil who has died at the age of 78. We look back on his career with Dee Reddy, Podcaster and Cultural Commentator.
High temperatures will run into the middle of the week,
High temperatures will run into the middle of the week, according to the latest forecast from Met Éireann. With yet another Status Yellow Temperature warning in place from 1pm today. We get the latest weather forecast with Holly O’Neill, Meteorologist with Met Éireann.
Science says watching sports is good for your health
It's been a huge summer of sport, with the World Cup, Wimbledon and the GAA championship gripping fans. But it turns out cheering from the sofa could actually be good for your health To explain all with Anton was Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, Brendan Kelly.
No evidence of political motive for murder of Ann Widdecombe
A 28-year-old man has been remains in custody in connection with the murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe. Police say there’s no evidence of a political motive and investigations are ongoing. For the latest on the investigation was London Based Journalist, Vinny McAviney.
Calls to save water wherever possible in the heat
With temperatures still high into this week, Uisce Éireann is renewing its warnings to adopt water-saving habits where possible. Speaking to Anton was Margaret Attridge, Head of Water Operations at Uisce Eireann.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Frances Fitzgerald, Former Tánaiste.
Calls for leash-free areas in Dublin City’s parks
Dublin City councillors are backing plans to create more off-leash areas for dogs. There is a report due in September on providing at least one space in each of the city’s 11 electoral areas. Joining Anton to discuss the importance of these spaces is Green Party Councillor Feljin Jose.
Deadly wildfire Spain's Almería province has stabilised
A deadly wildfire that has killed at least 12 people in Spain's Almería province has stabilised. Local authorities have said. Anton get the latest on this with Melita Cameron-Woods, Freelance Reporter in Valencia.
The efforts to locate a person of interest in the Jamey Carney investigation
The process of bringing a man Gardaí want to question in connection with the death of Jamey Carney back to Ireland could be a lengthy one. For more on this Anton spoke to Southern Correspondent, Irish Independent, Ralph Riegel.
The dangers of open water as warm weather continues
Six people were rescued from the water at Rosslare Strand in Wexford yesterday evening following a weekend of tragic incidents in waters across the country. As temperatures rise and more people head to the water. We look at the dangers and how to avoid getting into difficulty. We get a weather update with Alan O'Reilly from Carlow Weather. Also speaking to Anton was RNLI Water Safety E
27 dead after fire engulfs bar in Bangkok
At least 27 people have been killed in a fire that tore through a bar in Bangkok, while 60 are in hospital. Speaking to Anton with the latest on this was Journalist Tommy Walker.
The best tech to beat the heat!
The summer heat this year has turned some of our homes into sweatboxes, and most of us don’t have the equipment to cope with it. Adrian Weckler, Technology Editor with the Irish Independent has the guide on how to adapt.
The Rolling Stones are back with their 25th album
The ever-iconic Rolling Stones are back today with their 25th album, Foreign Tongues. We hear all about it with the Deputy Editor of Hotpress, Stuart Clark.
Andy Burnham almost guaranteed to be next PM
The race to become the next UK Prime Minister is nearing its conclusion. With Andy Burnham securing overwhelming support from Labour MPs and just one vote away from confirming his leadership. To discuss further was James Lyons, former Director of Strategic Communications for Keir Starmer.
How other countries regulate e scooters
The Government has asked the HSE for a report on e-scooter injuries. This is in response to a surge in serious injuries to children linked to e-scooters. How are other countries dealing with e-scooters, and are regulations any more lax here? To discuss further with Jonathan was Conor Faughnan, Transport Commentator and Independent Motoring Expert for Carzone.
US and Iran continue to trade strikes
Israel’s Defence Minister has said his country was prepared to resume its military campaign against Iran if needed, vowing to do so “with even greater force”. This comes as the US and Iran continue to trade strikes. With the latest on this was BBC World Affairs Editor, John Simpson.
The hot spell will continue for the foreseeable future
A yellow high temperature warning is in place in 12 counties from 1pm today until Sunday morning. We get a weather update from Aoife Kealy a Meteorologist with Met Eireann.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Joe O’Shea the Editor of CorkBeo.
The importance of safe swimming
With warm weather coming up this weekend, people will be flocking the beach to cool down and enjoy the sun. But with this comes risks. We here about importance of safe swimming is Madeline Shinnick, who’s grandson Michael nearly drowned last year.
Remote work depends on trust
A PwC employee discovered to have been working remotely from India for weeks. This was when he should have been based in his office in Dublin has lost a challenge to his dismissal. We get the details from Peter Cosgrove, Managing Director at Futurewise.
Mosque effigy placed on bonfire in County Tyrone
In Tyrone, a replica of a mosque on top of a bonfire is being treated as a "hate-motivated criminal offence", police have said. A 56-year-old man had been arrested on suspicion of displaying threatening, abusive or insulting material which is intended to stir up hatred. For more on this Jonathan spoke to Colm Gildernew MLA, Sinn Féin, Fermanagh and South Tyrone.
Latest on the murder investigation of Jamey Carney
Gardaí have said a man they want to speak to in connection with the suspected murder of 43-year-old American woman Jamey Carney in Kerry this week has fled the country. We get the latest on the investigation with Ralph Riegel, Southern Correspondent with the Irish Independent.
What is your relationship with your hair?
Does your relationship with your hair mean more than you think? We asked Elly Anastasiades who is a Counselling psychologist and PHD candidate, and she has completed a study on this.
RTE infront of Public Accounts Committee today
RTÉ executives told TDs in a briefing document ahead of their appearance before the Dáil Public Accounts Committee later today that it will need an additional €13.49 million more in State funding this year. Speaking to Jonathan ahead of the appearance was Aisling Moloney, Political Reporter, Irish Independent.
The Middle East remains on edge
Hundreds of thousands have gathered to mourn Iran's former Supreme Leader. While overnight US strikes targeted around 90 Iranian military sites. Iran has responded by targeting US bases in the Gulf, as President Trump warns of further military action. For the latest Jonathan spoke to Nicholas Hopton, Former UK Ambassador to Iran and non-resident Senior fellow at the Atl
Is safety in Dublin worsening?
“I was walking home through Dublin city at 7.30pm on a Tuesday evening, and I’ve never seen it as bad as it is today and over the last couple of weeks.” Those were the words of Social Democrats TD for Dublin Central Gary Gannon who spoke Johnathan this morning.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Ronan McGreevy, News Reporter at the Irish Times.
How does a heatwave affects our bodies?
While many people are enjoying the sunshine, doctors are warning that heat can put serious strain on the body, increasing the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heart problems. To explain how heat affects our bodies was Dr Suzanne Kelly, Deputy Medical Director of the Irish College of GPs and a GP in Cork.
Are new cars becoming more difficult to repair?
A recent report by JD Power’s Initial Quality Survey found that there were 192 problems per 100 cars within 90 days of ownership in 2025. What’s behind the increase in problems with new cars? To discuss further with Jonathan was Motoring Editor and Columnist with the Sunday Independent, Geraldine Herbert.
'Definite line of inquiry' in murder of Jamey Carney says Gardai
Gardaí are looking for a man in connection with the death of Jamey Carney following a suspected violent assault in Killarney, We got the latest on this with Presenter of Kerry Today, Jerry O’Sullivan.
Trump threatens Iran and says truce is over
The conflict between the US and Iran has escalated overnight, with American forces hitting around 90 Iranian military targets. Iran has responded by targeting US bases in Bahrain and Kuwait.Joining Jonathan with the latest analysis is Borzou Daragahi, Iranian Journalist and Founder of Badlands Newsletter.
Should we rename Irish streets that carry a British legacy?
Campaign groups Liú na Laoi and Misneach are calling for a number of Cork streets to be renamed. They are arguing that names linked to Britain's colonial past should be replaced with Irish republican and Gaelic figures. Speaking to Anton was Lar Ó Tuama of Misneach Corcaigh and Liú na Laoi.
Nigel Farage has "never been angrier in his life"
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has resigned as MP for Clacton. He is saying he will contest the resulting by-election, claiming he has "never been angrier in his life" as he accused the media of trying to intimidate his family. We get the latest from the UK with the Political commentator for The Telegraph James Price.
FAI motion to proceed with Israel games passes
An FAI motion has passed to continue plans for the upcoming Republic of Ireland Nations League matches against Israel. We get reaction to this with Joanne McDonald, spokesperson for the Irish Sport for Palestine group.
Marine Le Pen to run for French presidency in 2027
Paris appeal court decides today whether to uphold an embezzlement conviction against Marine Le Pen. French hard-right leader Marine Le Pen has said she will run for the presidency in 2027.For more on this Anton spoke to Lara Marlowe, Paris based Author and Journalist.
The US and Iran traded new attacks overnight
The US and Iran traded new attacks overnight. Head of NATO Mark Rutte said this morning that the US military strikes were “absolutely necessary”, What can we do to restore peace in the Middle East. Anton asked Fawaz Gerges, Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science.
TII Paper recommending higher rush hour tolls on port tunnel
A board paper from Transport Infrastructure Ireland recommended raising the tolls on the port tunnel as traffic levels were rising so sharply in it. It also recommended a hike on the M50 tollsDo we need higher tolls? Anton asked Peadar Tóibín TD, Leader of Aontú.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Jennifer Keane, Founder, Paygap.ie.
Calls to ban hare-coursing in Ireland in the Dáil today
Today the Dáil will vote on a People Before Profit Bill to ban hare-coursing in Ireland. This is the third proposal since the 1990s. To debate this proposal further with Anton was Nuala Donlon, Greyhound Action Ireland Spokesperson amd Niall Collins, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture.
The Seanad to debate a Bill on age verification today
The Seanad later today will debate a Bill on age verification introduced by Independent Senator Rónán Mullen. Rónán spoke to Anton ahead of the debate.
Prince Harry loses lawsuit against Daily Mail publisher
Prince Harry and six other high-profile claimants have lost their High Court case against Associated Newspapers after failing to prove stories were obtained unlawfully. We get the latest on this with Enda Brady, Journalist and Broadcaster based in London.
Reaction to Farage's resignation
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has resigned as MP for Clacton, saying he will contest the resulting by-election. He is claiming he has "never been angrier in his life" as he accused the media of trying to intimidate his family. With more on this Anton spoke to James Lyons, Former Director of Strategic Communications for Keir Starmer.
Woman found dead at house in Co Kerry
Gardaí have launched a murder investigation after the body of a woman in her 40s was found at a home on Muckross Road in Killarney, Co Kerry We get the details from Ralph Riegel, Southern Correspondent with the Irish Independent.
The US launch fresh strikes on Iran
The US have hit more than 80 targets in the latest round of strikes on Iran. Escalating conflict that has already hurt efforts to end the Middle East war.For the latest on this Anton spoke to Iranian Journalist and Analyst Borzou Daragahi.
Maternity guidelines listen to women's preferences - Rotunda
Former Master of Holles Street Peter Boylan told Newstalk Breakfast that the idea of ‘latent phase’ of labour should be excised from guidelines.Anton spoke with Dr Maeve Eogan, Consultant in Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the Rotunda, to hear more about current labour guidelines.
New proposals could see farmers in line for subsidised leave
Farmers could be in line for subsidised holidays and sick leave cover. This is according to proposals under the new Common Agricultural Policy. Joining Anton to discuss further was Denis Drennan President of ICMSA.
Should we really be supressing our sweat?
As the temperature rises so does the smell. Do you know the difference between antiperspirants and deodorant and should we really be supressing our sweat? Anton asked Selene Daly Tarpy, Nurse tutor and advanced nurse practitioner.
Prince Harry begins his UK visit
Prince Harry has landed in the UK for his highly anticipated visit to the UK, his spokesperson confirmed on Monday evening. It comes after it was revealed the Duke of Sussex will not be staying at Buckingham Palace this week. We get the details of the visit with Lucy Fisher, Whitehall Editor of the Financial Times.
Call for a public childcare trial in Budget 2027
Today, the National Women’s Council are launching their pre-budget submission. They are calling for a pilot on public childcare to be introduce in 2027. Anton discusses this further with Corrinne Hasson, Executive Director of the National Women’s Council.
NATO leaders meet in Ankara
NATO leaders are scheduled to attend the summit in Ankara, Turkey this week. This meeting is amid US President Donald Trump’s pressure for Europe to intensify defence spending as friction continues over the Iran war and Greenland. Anton discusses this further with Former Fighter pilot and now Military Analyst and Co-Host of the Red Matrix podcast, Sean Bell.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor, Irish Independent.
Do our current bail laws in Ireland need reform?
The Oireachtas Committee on Justice is meeting today to discuss the current bail laws in Ireland and possible reforms. Last year, Senior Counsel Lorcan Staines, authored a report with fifteen recommended changes to our bail laws. Lorcan spoke to Anton this morning.
A prolonged spell of hot weather ahead
A “prolonged spell of very warm or hot weather” will occur in Ireland this week and into next week. This is according to Met Éireann, with temperatures possibly reaching 30 degrees. We get a weather update with Aoife Kealy, Met Eireann Meteorologist.
Could learning another language help keep your brain younger?
New research suggests people who speak two or more languages may have brains that age more slowly, with the biggest benefits seen in those who speak several languages. Joining Anton to explain this was Professor of Experimental Brain Research at Trinity College Dublin Shane O' Mara.
The state of our infrastructure for cancer care
As cancer incidences continue to rise across the country. The Presidents of Ireland’s cancer care representative bodies, along with the Irish Cancer Society, are warning that key parts of the care system are struggling to keep pace. Speaking to Anton was Dr Michael McCarthy the President of the Irish Society for Medical Oncology and is a signatory on the joint letter.
George Gibney found guilty of sexually abusing four girls
Former swimming coach George Gibney has been found guilty of sexually abusing four girls in the 1970S AND 1980S. We get the details of what happen in court from Frank Greaney Newstalk's Courts Correspondent.
Firefighters are battling forest infernos across France
Hundreds of firefighters are battling forest infernos across France, Spain and Portugal as Europe faces another heatwave with temperatures expected to reach around 40°C in some areas. For the latest on the situation across Europe was Naomi O'Leary, Europe Correspondent with The Irish Times.
Plans to introduce a dynamic pricing system in Venice
The new mayor of Venice, Simmone Venturini has said that on peak days the current €10 fee does not do enough to deter visitors from visiting the popular tourist area. The mayor is now seeking government approval to introduce dynamic pricing on the its three day tripper free. Anton discusses this further with Travel Correspondent with The Telegraph, Simon Calder.
JD Sports to honour over 5,000 expired vouchers
JD Sports are to honour over 5,000 expired vouchers worth almost €250,000 to Irish consumers. This is following CCPC intervention. We get the details from Grainne Griffin, Director of Communications, Consumer Information and Financial Education at the CCPC.
Peter Boylan reaction to the HSE's labour guidelines
Former Master of the National Maternity Hospital Peter Boylan has strongly criticised the HSE's labour guidelines. Warning they are putting women at risk. Peter joined Anton to discuss this further.
Irish presidency must end ‘bank of mum and dad’ traineeships
"Irish presidency must end ‘bank of mum and dad’ traineeships" That's the call from Irish Trade Unions today. Anton discusses this further with Tea Jarc, The European Trade Union Confederation Confederal Secretary.
Will raising dog fouling fines address the problem?
The Government has announced that it would be increasing fines for littering and dog fouling by €100 from €150 to €250. Alongside a €250,000 fund for local authorities to clean up towns and cities. Dublin City Councillor and former Lord Mayor of Dublin Hazel Chu has been critical of the plans. Hazel explained why to Anton.
Did You See?
We take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was David McRedmond CEO of An Post.
A political roundup with Sean Defoe
A poll out over the weekend shows the Fine Gael are the most Important popular party in the country with 20% of Sunday Independent/Ireland Thinks poll giving support to Simon Harris’s Party. For more on this and for a political roundup on everything, Anton was joined by Newstalk’s Political Correspondent, Sean Defoe .
A call for a dedicated Dublin school bus service
Calls are being made to examine the feasibility of rolling out a coherent school bus system across Dublin The call by is being made by Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown, Maeve O’Connell.
Man shot dead in Dún Laoghaire in Dublin
A man was shot dead at around 8.30am on Sunday at Patrician Park, Kill Avenue, Dún Laoghaire. We get the latest on this with Conor Lally, Security and Crime Editor at The Irish Times.
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