The Last Word with Matt Cooper
On Ireland's most cutting edge current affairs show, Matt and his guests provide a running stream of intelligent opinions and heated debates on the issues that matter most to Irish listeners. You might not always agree, but you'll never want to miss a Word.
Episodes
The Last Word On The US: Trump Backs Down On Plans To Charge Fees In Strait Of Hormuz
US President Donald Trump has backed down on his plans to charge a 20% toll on cargo going through the Strait of Hormuz and will instead have “Trade and Investment Deals” with Gulf states, he said.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone to discuss the renewed chaos in the region as the US and Iran face off over the vital waterway and more of the latest news from the United States.Catch the full discussion b
2 Out Of 3 People Struggle To Get A Taxi After Night Out.
The Licensed Vintners Association has released a study which claims 67% of people have struggled to get a taxi home after a night out. Donall O'Keefe, CEO of the LVA, tells us about who is most effected and what other options we have. To hear the full conversation press play on this page now!
TV & Streaming: Hacks And The Pitt Lead Emmy Nominations
Medical drama The Pitt has received 25 nominations for this year's Emmy Awards, with comedy Hacks just behind with 24 nods.The awards will take place in LA on September 14th and will be presented by actress Mariska Hargitay.Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke join The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Is Dublin City Centre Out Of Control?
Last week, Social Democrats TD Gary Gannon wrote a piece for TheJournal.ie detailing his walk home across Dublin city centre.He detailed how he witnessed addiction, poverty, drug dealing, and what he described as a lack of political will to rejuvenate O’Connell Street.He speaks to The Last Word about the current state of the city centre, and if there’s any solutions.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this p
The Last Word On Travel: City Break Special - Copenhagen, Budapest, Berlin
Kaitlin Murphy from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word for a city break special!Kaitlin has three great travel guides for Copenhagen, Budapest and Berlin.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
How To Protect Your Dog During The Heatwave
Tips for staying cool during a heatwave aren't just for us humans.Laura Mock, Head of Veterinary services at Irish Blue Cross, informs us on how to protect our pets from heatstroke throughout the high temperatures. Hit Play on this page to listen now!
The Week Trending: Count Binface, World Cup Bank Holiday & Heatwaves
This week on The Week Trending, Matt is joined by Journalist Kate Henshaw and Broadcaster Padraig Wilson McCarthy to discuss the week's stories.They discuss Nigel Farage v Count Binface, a potential English World Cup Bank Holiday, the heatwave and much more.Hit Play on this page to listen now
Man Almost Sucked Out Of Ryan Air Window
A man was almost sucked out the widow of a Ryan Air flight after the window detached mid-air.Eoghan Corry, Editor of Travel Extra, joins Matt to discuss the terrifying moment for passengers on their German bound flight. Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear the full chat.
RTE Requires €65m Bailout In 2028, Broadcaster Says
RTE has said it will need an additional €65m from the government in 2028, suggesting that the number of households without a television has “increased steadily”, meaning it’s missing out on potential revenue.Louise Burne, Political Correspondent with the Irish Examiner, and Fianna Fáil TD Albert Dolan speak to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Unions Across Europe Call For Worker Protections During High Temperatures
Trade unions across Europe are pushing for new measures to help employees working in extreme heat.Among the precautions are workplace thermal limits, mandatory site heat risk assessments and rights to heat breaks. It’s estimated that there are 230 workplace deaths a year which are linked to high temperatures.Environmental commentator John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ butt
The Last Word On Movies: What To Expect In Irish Cinemas This Weekend
Olivia Fahy joins The Last Word to chat all about the new releases hitting Irish cinemas this weekend. From The Rocks wig in Moana to watching Evil Dead Burn through her fingers, Olivia tells Matt what to look out for this weekend.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Tech Thursday: Gadgets To Keep You Cool In A Heatwave
As the country sizzles under the second heatwave of the season, Andy O'Donoghue is back to run through the best gadgets to keep you cool.From phone fans to air conditioners, smart water bottles, gel pillows and more, Andy has thought of everything.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Culture Club: Spider Stacy
Spider Stacy from The Pogues is the latest inductee into The Last Word Culture Club.He joins Matt to discuss the influence of Irish music in his life, as he plans to tour with The Pogues and special guests from that very canon of new Irish acts.He also discusses the cultural touchstones in his own life from music to movies, books, TV and plays.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' butto
How To AI Proof Your Career
Almost half of Irish workers believe artificial intelligence will replace or negatively impact their current role according to a new survey from FRS recruitment.Colin Donnery, group CEO of FRS Co-Op, and Peter Cosgrove, managing director pf Careers Portal, join The Last Word to discuss how workers can AI proof their career.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
CCPC Raises Concerns About ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’ Schemes
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has said its concerned that ‘buy now, pay later’ schemes could negatively impact financially vulnerable people and see them fall further into debt after being targeted by retailers with so-called “free credit”.Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor with the Irish Independent, speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page
Uisce Éireann Urges Households To Conserve Water During Heatwave
With temperatures expected to reach 30 degrees in parts of the country this week, Uisce Eireann is urging households to be more mindful of their water usage.Margaret Attridge of Uisce Éireann, and Alan O'Reilly of Carlow Weather, join Matt to discuss their top tips to conserve water during a heatwave. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: Trump Renews Demand For Greenland
US President Donald Trump has renewed his claim that Greenland “should be controlled by the United States” while at a Nato summit in Turkey.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the US.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Sinn Féin Tables Bill To Kick Start Preparations For United Ireland
Sinn Féin has tabled a Bill which, if accepted, would compel the Government to examine the implications of Irish unity.Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald joins The Last Word to discuss why her party believes now is the time to start preparing for a referendum on a united Ireland.Catch the full chat by pressing 'Play' button on this page!
Nigel Farage Resigns As MP & Vows To Contest Upcoming By-Election
On Tuesday, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage announced that he would be resigning as MP for Clacton, triggering an upcoming by-election.Mr. Farage also confirmed that he will contest the by-election, and accused the media of attempting to intimidate his family.Nick Ferrari, presenter of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast on LBC Radio, explains all to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to
George Gibney Convicted Of Historic Sex Abuse
A jury has convicted former swimming coach George Gibney of attempted rape of a girl and the abuse of three girls on various dates in the 1970s and 1980s.Today FM Courts Correspondent Frank Greaney gives a background to the harrowing story of George Gibney's abuse. He details the allegations that Gibney faced and the verdict from the jury. To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on
Donald Trump Confirms He Asked FIFA To Review Balogun Red Card
On Monday, US President Donald Trump confirmed that he asked FIFA to review US player Folarin Balogun’s one-game suspension after he was sent off against Bosnia-Herzegovina at the World Cup.Balogun was due to miss his country’s last-16 tie against Belgium before FIFA suspended the ban for 12 months, thus clearing the path for him to start for Mauricio Pochettino’s side.Dion Fanning, co-host of the
Nigel Farage Insists “No Wrongdoing” Over Failing To Declare Benefits
An investigation by The Sunday Times found that Reform UK leader Nigel Farage failed to declare benefits provided by George Cottrell, an ally who was once convicted of fraud in the US.Nick Ferrari, presenter of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast on LBC Radio in London, explains the latest to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Why Is A Children’s Cartoon Being Accused Of Russian Propaganda?
A group of British MPs have urged ministers to whether they can stop children’s TV show ‘Masha and the Bear’ being broadcast in the UK, after it was accused of expressing pro-Kremlin propaganda.Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke join The Last Word for Monday’s TV & streaming slot.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
What Is The New Whatsapp Username Feature?
Whatsapp is set to roll out a new feature which will let users chat without revealing their phone numbers.The move has faced some scrutiny, though, and India has requested that the rollout is paused due to concerns about fraud and phishing scams.Tech journalist Andy O’Donoghue explains all to Matt.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Should Air Conditioning Be Installed In Homes Across Europe?
With temperatures soaring across Europe in recent weeks, the debate about the necessity of air conditioning in homes has sparked in France once again.Is this an inevitable conclusion as the continent experiences high temperatures, and what would the environmental impact of the move be?Commentator John Gibbons joins Matt for The Last Word on the Environment.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hea
Trump Hopes Visit To Ireland Later This Year - Do We Want Him?
US President Donald Trump told guests at the US ambassador’s residence in Dublin on Wednesday that he hopes to visit Ireland for the Irish Open later this year.Larry Donnelly, law lecturer at University of Galway, and Dan O’Brien, chief economist at the Institute of International and European Affairs, join The Last Word to discuss the likelihood of such a visit and the challenges it would present.
Culture Club: Mike Hanrahan
Musician Mike Hanrahan, of Stockton's Wing, is the latest guest on the Culture Club.He joins The Last Word to chat about his favourite music, movies, TV and more.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
€3 Customs Charge On Items Coming From Outside EU Comes Into Effect
A major change to EU customs rules, which kicked in on July 1, means that consumers must now pay a lot more for small items that are coming from outside the European Union.Rory McGinn, business reporter with the Irish Independent, joins The Last Word to explain how this new custom charge works.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Riad Bouchaker Guilty Of Attempted Murder Of Three Children
52-year-old Riad Bouchaker has been found guilty of the attempted murder of three children at Parnell Square in Dublin in November 2023.Mr. Bouchaker was also found guilty of stabbing Leanne Flynn, a childcare worker who was trying to protect the children, and of assaulting two other children and a teenager who intervened in the incident.Frank Greaney, Today FM’s Courts Correspondent, speaks to Ma
Personal Finance: What Is The Government’s Savings Scheme?
The government is working on a saving scheme in a bid to encourage Irish savers, who have an estimated €170bn in deposits, to invest.Some economists have raised concerns that this will only benefit the wealthy and that there is little benefit for the so-called “squeezed middle”.Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor with the Irish Independent, joins Matt to run through what’s known about the sche
The Last Word On Music: What Can We Expect From Madonna’s New Album?
Madonna will release her new album ‘Confessions II’ on Friday, a follow-up to her 2005 record ‘Confessions on a Dancefloor’.Dee Reddy and John Caddell join Matt on The Last Word to predict whether it will live up to the hype and match her previous success.Plus, they look forward to Take That at the Aviva Stadium this Saturday and Lewis Capaldi being added to the Electric Picnic lineup.Hit the ‘Pla
The Last Word On The US: Supreme Court Rejects Trump’s Bid To Limit Birthright Citizenship
The US Supreme Court on Tuesday ruled against President Donald Trump’s attempt to restrict birthright citizenship in the United States.The decision is a significant blow to Trump’s immigration agenda.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the US.Catch the full chat by pressing the ‘Play’ button on this page!
Govt Signs Off On Proposed Overhaul Of One-Off Rural Housing Rules
Cabinet has signed off on a draft plan which seeks to introduce more flexible rules on one-off rural housing.Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage James Browne joins The Last Word to discuss the new proposals.Catch the full chat by pressing the ‘Play’ button on this page!
Will DUP Survive Donaldson Convictions & Revelations
Deirdre Heenan, professor of Social Policy at Ulster University, talks to Matt about the continuing fallout from the conviction of former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson for child sex abuse and rape. Politicians are calling for an investigation by the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland, into what PSNI officers might have known about Donaldson's conduct.There were also further revelations about Jef
The Last Word On Travel: Summer Travel Checklist
From visa rules to baggage allowances, Sarah Slattery from the thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to run through all of the checks you should consider before heading off on your summer holidays.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Gaelic Football: All Ireland Quarter Finals Preview
Matt is joined by Former Galway footballer Ray Silke and Former Cork footballer Conor McCarthy to preview the weekend's Gaelic football action.They preview the All Ireland Quarter Finals this weekend Hit Play on this page to listen now
The Week Trending: Metallica Concert Fraud, World Cup & Heat Domes
This week on The Week Trending Matt is joined by writer and broadcaster Aoife Barry and Managing Director of The Communications Clinic Eoghan Tomás McDermott to discuss the week's stories. They discuss three American tourists arrested for counterfeit Metallica wristbands, players taking leaves of absence from the World Cup and much more Hit Play on this page to listen now
The Last Word on The Environment: Why is Carspreading so Dangerous?
This week on The Last Word on The Environment Matt is joined by Climate and Environmental Researcher and Irish Times Contributor Sadhbh O’Neill.The discuss why carspreading is so dangerous, election posters impact on the environment and much more Hit Play on this page to listen now
Tech Thursday: When Is The Best Time To Buy New Tech?
Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to run through the best times throughout the year to buy a new phone, laptop, TV or other gadgets.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Is There Any Solution To The M50’s Traffic Problems?
Since the M50 was first designed, population of the greater Dublin area has risen by 20%, with commuters now facing long delays on their journeys into the city.With so many people dependent on private cars, is there any way of easing traffic congestion?Brian Caulfield, Professor in Transportation at Trinity College Dublin and Aidan Farrelly, Social Democrats Spokesperson on Transport speak to The
Culture Club: Annie Ryan
Theatre director Annie Ryan joins Matt for the Culture Club. Annie's latest production is a revival of Lennox Robinson's canonical play The White Headed Boy, which is at the Abbey Theatre in Dublin.Annie talks to Matt about the humour and enduring themes of the play. She also discusses the music, movies, TV shows and books that have influenced her life and work.To catch the full conversation, pres
Has Ireland Left Itself Vulnerable To Security Breaches?
As Ireland gets closer to hosting the EU presidency, concerns remain about the country's ability to provide adequate national security for such a high profile event.Dr Edward Burke, assistant professor of the history of war at UCD, joins The Last Word to discuss the security gaps that are leaving Ireland open to bad actors.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word on Music: Clive Davies Dies Aged 94
This week on The Last Word on Music Dee Reddy and John Cadell join Matt to discuss the biggest music stories of the week including Clive Davies death.They also give us their picks of the week Hit Play on this page to listen now
The Last Word's Summer Wine Recommendations
Sommelier Brigid O'Hora joins The Last Word to give her top wine recommendations for summer.Brigid's choices include a Spanish Cava rosé, a classic Muscadet and even a summer appropriate red from an Irish winemaker in northern Spain.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!Full list of the wines recommended by Brigid:Mistinguett Cava Rosé, Penedès, Spain RRP €24Muscadet Le Gr
The Last Word on the US: Iran, Tucker Carlson & Reflecting Pool
This week on The Last Word on the US Marione McKeone and Cal Thomas discuss the ongoing peace negotiations between the White House and Iran.They also discuss Trump's reflecting pool, Tucker Carlson leaving the party and much moreHit Play on this page to listen now
What Is Planned For The GPO Redevelopment?
The Government today agreed the first steps to redevelop the iconic General Post Office (GPO) building on Dublin's O'Connell Street.Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers joins The Last Word to discuss how the government plans to utilise the landmark building and how those plans fit into the wider development of the capital.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Former DUP Leader Jeffrey Donaldson Found Guilty Of 18 Sexual Offence Charges
The former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been found guilty of 18 child sex abuse charges, including rape.The jury of five women and seven men returned with the verdict on Monday afternoon after ten hours of deliberations.Jamie O’Hara, Today FM reporter and Stephen Walker, former political correspondent at the BBC join Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
The Last Word On Travel: Holiday Destinations From Cork Airport
Passengers can travel to 48 destinations from Cork Airport this summer including brand new routes to Nice and Santiago de Compostela.Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to run through some great holidays you can take if you want to fly out of Cork.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Burnham Sworn In As MP As Starmer Resigns
British Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer has resigned from office, paving the way for new leadership.Nick Ferrari, Presenter of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast on LBC, talks to Matt about the fortunes of the Labour leader.He also discusses the rise of former Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham, who secured a definitive win in the Makerfield by election, winning back votes from Reform. He seems se
The Week Trending: Brand It Like Beckham, Shrinking Chocolate, & McGregor On Fallon
This week, Cadbury confirmed that its chocolate bars are in fact getting smaller but the company denies that it is trying to fool customers.As the World Cup gets in full swing, many viewers have remarked on the number of ads starring ex-footballer turned professional brand ambassador David Beckham.And, Jimmy Fallon has sparked outrage from Irish fans over his interview with Conor McGregor.Elaine B
Will Andy Burnham Become The Next British Prime Minister After Byelection Success?
On Friday, Andy Burnham was elected as MP in the Makerfield byelection and, in doing so, has further increased the pressure on Keir Starmer’s position as Prime Minister and leader of the Labour Party.So, are Starmer’s days in Downing Street numbered, and how will Nigel Farage react to such a heavy defeat for Reform?Nick Ferrari, presenter of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast on LBC Radio in London, speaks
The Inside Story Of How Samantha Cookes Conned Her Way Through Ireland & The UK
Fraudster Samantha Cookes spent more than a decade conning people in both Ireland and Britain.A new book looks at how Cookes integrated herself into the lives of vulnerable families and posed as a nanny, a therapist and an author under various identities.Alan Bradley, author of ‘Unmasking Samantha Cookes: The Many Lives of a Serial Fraudster’, joins Daniel McConnell on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’
Patrick Freyne On Writing His Debut Novel At 51
Patrick Freyne joins The Last Word to discuss his debut novel 'Experts in a Dying Field'.He chats to Matt about writing from his own life, pursuing a music career, and the magic of foxes.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
EPA Says Water Quality In Ireland Has Not Improved In The Last Year
New data from the Environmental Protection Agency has shown that there were no major improvements in Ireland’s water quality in 2025.The EPA has said that the condition of Ireland’s rivers have “dropped significantly” in recent years and that high nutrient levels are the biggest challenge to raising standards.Sadhbh O’Neill, Climate and Environmental Researcher and Irish Times Contributor, speaks
'It's Been Hell', Widow Of Hit And Run Victim On Life After Tragedy
In 2024, hurling coach Niall MacEneaney was knocked down and killed by a drunk driver. That driver was Michael Ball, who at the time was a serving garda. He was recently sentenced to six years after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death.Niall's wife Grace Martin talks to Matt about Niall's life and the impact of his loss on her.
Culture Club: Iarla Ó Lionáird
Iarla Ó Lionáird is the latest inductee into the Culture Club. He talks to Danny McConnell about his life in music and the upcoming performance at this year's Galway International Arts Festival.Iarla also discusses the music, film, movies, and books that have influences his life.
Personal Finance: Will Fuel Prices Fall If The Strait Of Hormuz Reopens?
Since the conflict between the US and Iran began, consumers here in Ireland have experienced a spike in fuel prices.But if the Strait of Hormuz is to reopen, could drivers see the price at the pumps drop?Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor with the Irish Independent, speaks to Daniel McConnell on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
The Last Word On Music: Best World Cup Anthems
John Caddell and Dee Reddy join The Last Word to discuss the latest music news and also to rank the best world cup anthems.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: US-Iran Reach Deal But What Exactly Did Trump Gain In This War?
News this week that the US and Iran have reached a memorandum of understanding to end the conflict that has caused massive global disruption will be welcomed by many.But the reported details of the deal indicate that for US President Donald Trump, the consequences of this war may have greatly outweighed any gains.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the late
Kerry To Face Armagh, Dublin To Host Donegal In All-Ireland Series
The draw for Round 3 of the All-Ireland Gaelic football championship has been made with some blockbuster ties to be played across the 20th and 21st of June.Kerry face Armagh in Killarney on Saturday, while Donegal head to Croke Park on Sunday to play Dublin.Meanwhile, Mayo host Meath on Saturday evening in MacHale Park before the round wraps up in Clones with Monaghan vs Westmeath.Colm Keys, GAA C
The Last Word On Travel: Miami
Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to chat about some of the best things to do and see in Miami, Florida including the stunning beaches, distinctive art and architecture and wonderful Hispanic culture.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Riad Bouchaker Was "Hellbent" On Attacking Children, Witness Tells Trial
Today FM reporter Emily Keegan joins The Last Word to outline what was heard on the fourth day of the trial of Riad Bouchaker who is accused of the attempted murder of three children on Dublin's Parnell Square in November 2023. Bouchaker has pleaded not guilty to eight charges including assaulting two other children, a passerby and a crèche worker. He also denies being in possession of a knife.Hea
Novelist Elizabeth Strout On The Secrets Of Ordinary People
Following on from her Oliva Kittridge and Lucy Barton novels, Pulitzer Prize winning author Elizabeth Strout has turned her attention to a new cast of characters.The Things We Never Say introduces the unassuming Artie Dam, a school teacher in Massachusetts, who harbours a deep secret.Elizabeth talks to Matt about the inspiration behind the novel and how her own background influences what she is co
Who Will Win The FIFA World Cup 2026?
The FIFA World Cup kicks off on Thursday with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa.There’ll be a staggering 104 matches across the tournament, with a record 48 teams involved.Miguel Delaney, Chief Football Writer with The Independent and Dion Fanning, co-host of the Free State podcast, preview the competition on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Tech Thurs: Personal Entertainment For Long Haul Trips
Andy O'Donoghue runs through the best e-readers, tablets, speakers and more to help keep you entertained on a long flight or road trip.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Thousands Of Homes At Risk From Coastal Erosion, Report Says
A new report published by the Climate Change Advisory Council has found that 4,500 homes and 570km of road in Ireland are at risk of being lost due to coastal erosion.The report has recommended mandatory “natural hazard disclosures” for homebuyers so that they’re aware of the risks involved when purchasing a property.Sadhbh O’Neill, Climate and Environmental Researcher and Irish Times Contributor,
Culture Club: Mark Geary
Singer-Songwriter Mark Geary is the latest inductee into the Culture Club.His latest six-tack EP, Antebellum, is out now. Mark runs through his musical influences, as well as his favourite TV shows, music, books and more.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Maggie O’Farrell On The Phenomenon Of ‘Hamnet’ And Her New Novel ‘Land’
Author Maggie O’Farrell, who wrote the best-selling novel ‘Hamnet’ has released her latest book ‘Land’.She speaks to Matt on The Last Word about the excitement of her novel being adapted to the big screen, her pride in her Irish roots and the focus on identity running through ‘Land’.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Trial Of Man Charged With Attempted Murder Of Three Children Begins
The trial of 52-year-old Riad Bouchaker, who is charged with the attempted murder of three children and assault causing serious harm to a care worker in November 2023 began on Wednesday.The court heard from the mother of one of the children, who said her daughter suffered severe injuries and is now non-verbal and in a wheelchair.Frank Greaney, Today FM Courts Correspondent, joins The Last Word.Hit
Martin Sixsmith On The $50bn Lawsuit Against Putin
British journalist and author Martin Sixsmith talks to Matt about his latest book, Suing The Kremlin: The Battle For Putin's Billions.The book details how Oligarchs, once seen as allies of Russian regimes, have been turned on and end up in prison, in exile, or are killed. To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On The US: Trump Walks Out Of NBC Interview
US President Donald Trump walked out of an interview with NBC’s Meet The Press after a tense exchange with journalist Kristen Welker.Welker pressed Trump on his claims that the 2020 presidential election was rigged, with the President then accusing her of being “crooked”.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join Matt for The Last Word on The US.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the discussion.
Government Urged To Back Motions To Boycott Ireland vs Israel
Opposition parties have called on the government to back motions which call for Ireland vs Israel to be cancelled.It was reported on Monday that the game could be moved out of the Aviva Stadium and into a neutral venue, however the FAI said the board is still meeting to “discuss the operational aspects” of the fixture.Duncan Smith TD, Labour spokesperson for foreign affairs, and Senator Alison Com
Author Kathryn Stockett On The Difficult Second Novel
Best-selling US author Kathryn Stockett joins Matt to discuss her new novel, The Calamity Club. It's the second novel following the phenomenal success of The Help which sold 15million copies worldwide and was turned into a film staring Emma Stone. However, the success quickly turned to controversy after criticism that a white author was detailing black American experiences. Kathryn Stockett talks
The Last Word On Travel: Summer Short Break Deals At Home
From sauna and Pilates packages to golf trips, Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie has the latest in summer deals for a long weekend or mid-week break in Ireland. To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
AI Needs A Brake Pedal Warns Anthropic Founder
Jack Clark, the founder of AI company Anthropic has said AI is nearing the point of developing itself without human input and that Government policies need to keep control of AI.To discuss this, Matt is joined by Adrian Weckler, tech editor, Irish and Sunday Independent and Puneet Kukreja, Head of Cyber, EY Ireland.To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
What’s The Mood Like In The US Ahead Of The FIFA World Cup?
It’s less than a week until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off but the build up to this year’s tournament has been embroiled in off the pitch controversies.Conflict between the US and Iran, soaring ticket prices and environmental issues have dominated the discourse in recent weeks.Dave Hannigan, journalist based in the US and author of ‘We Need To Talk About Roy: The Keaneification of Modern Irelan
The Week Trending: The Healy-Rae Split, Gen Z Need Resilience, & Doom Spending
This week there was a very public falling out between Kerry's political sibling duo Michael and Danny Healy Rae after Michael went on radio to suggest that his brother cost him his junior ministry.Michelle Obama told young people who don't like their jobs that they need to develop greater 'resilience'.And what is doom spending?Edel Coffey and Dion Fanning join The Last Word to discuss the week's t
Marie Gleeson’s Journey From A Tipperary Farm To Being Captain Of The LÉ Aoife
Former captain in the Irish Navy, Marie Gleeson, has released her memoir “Be Like the Sea”.She speaks candidly to Matt about her experience working in the military, how the skills from her professional life transfer to her personal life, and the heartbreak of losing her son at just six days old.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Environment: EU Takes Ireland To Court Over Illegal Peat Extraction
The European Commission has taken Ireland to court for failing to stop illegal peat extraction.The Commission said there was “significant” cutting happening with no planning permission or assessments of the environmental impact of doing so.John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Tech Thursday: What Is Chip-flation And What Does It Mean For The Cost Of Your Gadgets?
The price of memory chips is soaring as manufacturers struggle to keep up with the massive demand from Artificial Intelligence companies.Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss the impact of the rising cost of these chips which are essential for everyday tech products like laptops, phones and even electric cars.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
