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
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!
Culture Club: Martin Doyle
Author and Irish Times Books Editor, Martin Doyle, joins Matt to discuss his latest book. A Hosting: Interviews With Irish Writers 1991-2026, delves into Martin's journalistic archive to present a compilation of interviews with some of Ireland's best loved writers. He also discusses his favourite books, films, music, movies and more. To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this
What Makes A Healthy Breakfast?
New research by the National Dairy Council has shown that half of Irish adults value a healthy breakfast, but that convenience and time constraints sometimes impact their choices.What food types should we aim to eat in the morning to ensure we feel sustained and energised?Sarah Keogh, Registered Dietician and Founder of Eatwell.ie joins Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to h
Govt To Give €8,500 Scrappage Grant To Encourage Drivers To Go Electric
People with petrol and diesel cars that are more than 13 years old will be eligible for grants of €8,500 to purchase a new electric vehicle under new a State scrappage scheme.A significant portion of the €10 million scheme would be ringfenced for those living in rural Ireland.Geraldine Herbert, motoring editor for the Sunday Independent, and Ciaran Ahern, Labour TD and climate spokesperson, join T
The Last Word On The US: Trump Battles To Save Ceasefire With Iran
There are signs of a strain in the relationship between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israeli threats to resume bombing in Lebanon which have put US ceasefire talks with Iran at risk.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the United States.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on t
Should Nightclubs Stay Open For Longer?
Three out of every four people who socialise in Dublin would like to see later nightclub opening times, according to new research undertaken on behalf of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA).Donall O’Keeffe, chief executive of the LVA, and Hazel Chu, Green Party deputy leader and Dublin City councillor, join The Last Word to discuss whether nightclubs in the capital should stay open later and w
The Week Trending: Pope's AI Warning, 'Bin Interference', & Luke Kelly Loses His Hair
This week, Pope Leo XIV used the first major teaching document of his papacy to warn about the threat of artificial intelligence.Dublin City Council said 'bin interference' by people looking for bottles and cans has cost it €500,000 and is leading to more rubbish on city streets. And, a popular statue of Dublin folk legend Luke Kelly is undergoing extensive repair after visitors repeatedly broke o
Should Ireland Have More Bank Holidays?
Ireland currently has 10 bank holidays in the calendar year which is two fewer than the EU average.It’s a topic that has been up for debate in recent years, with Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman previously calling for more to be added.Richard Boyd Barrett, People Before Profit TD and Damien McCarthy, Managing Director at HR Buddy speak to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page
Has Gambling Hijacked Sport?
Author and academic Darragh McGee has published his new book “Imitation Games: How Gambling Hijacked Sport”.He examines how betting has become more prominent in the experience of watching live sport and how young people – particularly young men – are being targeted through relentless marketing campaigns and ads.He speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece
Environment: Planning Regulations For One-Off Housing To Be Eased
Rules surrounding plans for rural housing which aims to increase supply in Ireland are set to be eased at Cabinet next month.Would this be a positive move for rural areas, and what would the environmental impact of such a move be?Commentator John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the discussion.
Tech Thursday: Get World Cup Ready
Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to chat about how you can get your home setup ready for the World Cup.He has recommendations for high quality soundbars, projectors and other gadgets to improve at home viewing.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: Doireann Ní Gríofa
Writer Doireann Ní Gríofa joins The Last Word for the Culture Club.Doireann chats to Matt about her favourite music, movies, TV and more as well as her new book 'Said The Dead'.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Calls For Restrictions On Advertising For Alcohol-Free Drinks
The government is set to oppose a Bill that calls for restrictions on ads for alcohol-free drinks.Padraig Rice TD of the Social Democrats is set to bring the Public Health (Alcohol) (Amendment) Bill 2025 forward on Thursday.Deputy Rice and Fine Gael TD John Clendennan speak to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear the piece.
Opposition Vow To Strengthen Occupied Territories Bill
After years of delays, Cabinet agreed this week to bring forward the Occupied Territories Bill, which will prohibit the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.However, opposition TDs have criticised the Government as the proposed legislation excludes a ban on services. The Taoiseach defended the move saying they had to consider the implications for Irish j
State Spent Almost €500m On Emergency Accommodation Last Year
Eoin O Broin, Sinn Féin TD and housing spokesperson and Seamus McGrath, Fianna Fáil TD and housing spokesperson discuss the costs of emergency accommodation. They also debate what lies behind the increasing costs and whether current Government plans will end long terms homelessness by 2030.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On US: Iran War, Slush Fund & White House Ballroom Fuel Division In Republican Party
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss the latest news from the United States including stalled negotiations to end the Iran war, continued backlash against a slush fund for Trump allies, and the ballooning cost of the US President's ballroom.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
What Now For Reality TV Following MAFS Allegations?
Former boss of Channel 4 Michael Grade has said the television industry faces a “watershed moment” after three participants of Married at First Sight UK made allegations of rape by their husbands.Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke speak to Matt on The Last Word’s TV & Streaming slot.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
The Last Word On Travel: Walking Holidays In Europe
Barry Taylor joins The Last Word to discuss some great walking holidays that aren't the Camino. He has details on shorter routes in Ireland that could be done over a long weekend as well as longer routes abroad. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: Catholicism, CMAT, & The Irish Language
While on a visit to Italy this week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, the first meeting between a pontiff and a Taoiseach since 2018.Meanwhile, CMAT made headlines as she won the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for Best Album for her album 'Euro-Country'. The Irish popstar used the opportunity to urge artists to stop "sitting on the fence".And a new survey has indicate
Champions Cup Final Preview
On Saturday, Leinster take on Bordeaux Begles in this year’s Champions Cup final.After so much heartbreak in the competition in recent seasons, can Leo Cullen’s side finally get over the line?Liam Toland and Matt Williams join Matt on The Last Word to preview the game.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the chat.
The Last Word On Movies: Michael Bay To Direct Film About US Military Rescue In Iran
Brian Lloyd joins The Last Word to review the week's biggest movie releases, 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and 'Finding Emily'.He also discusses the latest movie news including reports that Michael Bay, the director behind 'Pearl Harbor', 'Armegeddon' and the Transformers movies, is set to direct a military drama based on the recent rescue of two US pilots in Iran.Catch the full chat by pressing the
Latest In Travel & Adventure Tech
Andy O'Donoghue talks to Matt about the latest gadgets for all kinds of holidays, whether a weekend getaway or a long haul, backpacking adventure. From cordless hair straighteners to satellite phones, Andy has you covered for all eventualities.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Culture Club: Rosemary Hennigan
Author Rosemary Hennigan is the latest guest to join The Last Word for the Culture Club!She chats to Matt about her favourite music, movies, TV shows and more as well as her new novel 'The Hotel Guest'.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Will Changes To Work From Home Rules Convince Employees To Change Jobs?
A new survey conducted by Morgan McKinley has found that employers reversing rules regarding work from home arrangements has increased their considerations for leaving their jobs.The study also found that women are disproportionately impacted by having to return to the office more frequently.Tracy Keevans, Global Foreign Direct Investment Director at Morgan McKinley, speaks to The Last Word about
Personal Finance: 25 Per Cent Rise In Everyday Costs Over Last 5 Years
This week on The Last Word, Charlie Weston, personal finance editor with the Irish Independent, looks at how much people's day-to-day costs have increased over the last five years. He also discusses Sky's latest crackdown on so-called 'dodgy boxes' and runs through the details of a new savings account from PTSB.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: DOJ Sets Up $1.8B Fund That Could Go To Jan 6 Rioters
The US Justice Department announced Monday that it was establishing a $1.776 billion fund to compensate Trump allies who claim they were targeted by the Joe Biden administration.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss the 'anti-weaponisation' fund, which is expected to pay out money to Jan. 6 rioters, and more of the latest news from the United States.Catch the full chat by pr
Ex-Garda Paul Moody Jailed For Four Years For Abuse Of Partner
Former garda Paul Moody who abused and terrorised his former partner and the mother of his child over a number of years has been jailed for four years.This sentence marks the second time Moody has been jailed for abuse of a partner. In 2022, he was sentenced to three years and three months for coercive control of his former girlfriend, Nicola Hanney.Frank Greaney, Today FM courts correspondent, jo
Legislation To Tackle Puppy Farms Brought To Cabinet
On Tuesday, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon brought draft legislation to tackle puppy farms before Cabinet.The legislation proposes various new measures including regulations around litter numbers, breeding age and standards of living conditions.Minister Heydon speaks to Matt on The Last Word about this.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
TV & Streaming: Will RTE Continue Eurovision Boycott Next Year?
The Eurovision song contest took place in Vienna last week, with Bulgaria winning Saturday’s final with the song “Bangaranga”.But after Ireland and RTE’s boycott this year due to Israel’s participation in the competition, will they continue with the same stance in 2027?Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke join Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the discussion.
CCPC Warns Over Pitfalls Of Car Hire Abroad
Following an survey of Irish holidaymakers' experiences of car hire abroad, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, it was found over 40% had issues with their car hires.Long wait times, hidden fees and the car not being as described were some of the issues reported.Orla Delargy, Deputy Communications Director at the CCPC, speaks to Matt about the survey and offers advice for those pla
The Last Word On Travel: A Guide To Visiting The Greek Islands
Greece is home to more than 200 inhabited islands, many of which are very popular with Irish tourists.Kaitlin Murphy from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to run through what some of the Greek islands have to offer and to give some travel tips for anyone looking to go island hopping.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: Eurovision, Wordle, & The Mosquito That Killed Cromwell
It's Eurovision week but this year there is no Irish entry and viewers in Ireland will have to switch to the BBC if they want to watch the final in Austria.In other TV news this week, Wordle, the popular online game, is getting a TV adaptation.And, a statue to commemorate the mosquito that may have killed Oliver Cromwell has been proposed as a quirky new attraction for Cork city.Paddy Duffy and Fi
What Does The Future Hold For RTE?
Former government minister Shane Ross has written his latest book, looking back on the history of the national broadcaster.He reflects on past controversies that threatened to impact its reputation and also looks forward to what the future might hold for the company.He speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
A Quarter Of World Cup Matches To Be Played In Temperatures Above 26 Degrees
World Weather Attribution has conducted a study which found that 25% of matches at this year’s FIFA World Cup are likely to be played in temperatures over 26 degrees Celsius.Extreme heat conditions are most likely to be experienced in Miami, New York, New Jersey and New York.Officials insist they have plans in place to accommodate players if the weather gets too hot, but is it fair to expect them
Tech Thursday: Screenless Tech Wearables
This week for Tech Thursday, Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss some of the latest screenless wearable tech amid increasing demand for screen free smart watches and health tracking devices.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: David Gray
Ahead of bringing his Past & Present Tour to Dublin's Fairview Park & the SSE Arena in Belfast, David Gray joins Daniel McConnell on for The Last Word's Culture Club.Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear his choices.
Bertie Ahern Backtracks On Immigration Comments
Bertie Ahern has said he has 'no problem' with people from Africa or the Congo as he rolls back on comments he made during a recent canvas in Dublin Central.In a video circulating on social media, the former Taoiseach says, in a conversation on a doorstep, that he has concerns about the level of immigration and that Ireland "can't be taking in people" coming from "the Congo".Louise Burne, politica
Seamas O'Reilly On His Debut Novel
Author Seamas O'Reilly talks to Matt about his debut novel, Prestige Drama. Set in Derry, it tells the story of a Hollywood star coming to town to research a role for a Troubles based TV show and what happens when she mysteriously disappears.Seamas also discusses the literature of Northern Ireland and the role writers play in getting to a collective truth.To listen to the full conversation, press
The Last Word On The US: Trump To Visit China As Iran War Rumbles On
US President Donald Trump will this week make a state visit to China with the Strait of Hormuz, tariffs and Taiwan all likely to be on the agenda during talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss Trump's visit to China and more of the latest news from the United States.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
VFI Warn Rising Costs Will Lead To Closure Of Rural Pubs
The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland has warned that rural pubs in Ireland are facing an “existential threat” due to rising costs, citing 2,500 closures since 2005.The organisation is calling on the government to provide tax credits in order to protect smaller pubs around the country.Pat Crotty, Chief Executive of the VFI, speaks to Matt on The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear t
The Last Word on TV & Streaming: The Bear to End with Season 5
Elaine Burke and Kate Henshaw join Matt to talk about the biggest tv news and releases of the week.They chat about The Bear, Amandaland and more Hit Play on this page to listen now
Just 3% Of People In Ireland Cycle Daily
New research by RedClick has found that just 3% of people in Ireland cycle every day and highlights the barriers that cyclists face on Irish roads.Should more be done to make cycling in Ireland more accessible, or is there too much investment in cycling infrastructure considering the low numbers presented in the study?Conor Faughnan, Motoring Expert at Carzone.ie and Ciaran Cannon, CEO of Cycling
More Than 30 Council Bought Vacant Properties Lying Neglected
There are more than 30 council-owned properties currently lying in states of dereliction.Joining Matt to discuss what can be done to bring these properties back in to use is Founder & Director of Anois, Jude Sherry and Sinn Fein Councillor and Member of the Dublin City Council Housing Committee Daithí DoolanHit Play on this page to listen now
The Last Word On Travel: Off The Beaten Track In Europe's Hotspots
Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to chat about some great lesser known destinations in Europe's hotspots. Sarah's recommendations:Asturias, Northern SpainPuglia & Matera, ItalyChania, CreteTavira, PortugalÎle de Ré, FranceCatch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: Hantavirus, Attenborough Turns 100 & Pre-flight Pints
Some of the stories dominating the news this week included the cruise ship hantavirus outbreak, the 100th birthday of legendary British environmentalist David Attenborough, and Michael O'Leary's latest call to ban airport pints.Deirdre O’Shaughnessy, Irish Examiner editor and podcast host, and Jennifer Horgan, teacher and columnist, join The Last Word to discuss these and more of the week's trendi
The Last Word On Movies: Should Stars Of Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey Have American Accents?
Brian Lloyd joins The Last Word to review the week's biggest movie releases, 'Mortal Kombat II' and 'The Sheep Detectives'.He also discusses the latest trailer for Christopher Nolan's 'The Odyssey' which has sparked debate over the use of American accents and contemporary language by the stars in the film.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Environment: David Attenborough Turns 100
Broadcaster & natural historian David Attenborough will celebrate his 100th birthday this week, and on Thursday’s environment slot, John Gibbons paid tribute to his career.Matt also talks to John about Dublin City Council’s decision to ban bin bags on a further 110 city-centre streets.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the chat.
Tech Thursday: The Pivot From Fitness To Wellness Gadgets
Andy O'Donoghue runs through the latest wellness tech, that pivot away from fitness towards deep rest and relaxation. From smart lamps, fitness rings, sleep masks and temperature regulators, Andy has you covered!To catch, the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Culture Club: Jess Kav
Singer songwriter Jess Kav is the latest guest on The Culture Club.She joins The Last Word to chat about her favourite music, movies, TV and more. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Michael O’Leary Urges Ban On Early Morning Airport Drinking As Bad Behaviour Rises
Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary has said that a ban on serving alcohol in the early hours of the morning should be implemented in airports in order to reduce disruptive behaviour from passengers onboard flights.Bars in Irish and UK airports do not have to follow the same opening hours restrictions that other outlets do.Ali Dunworth, author of “A Compendium of Irish Pints: The Culture, Customs and Cra
Ireland Has The Highest Electricity Prices In Europe
Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor of The Irish Independent, outlines the latest Eurostat survey of electricity prices across Europe.Charlie also explains the hidden insurance costs of adding a modular home to your property.To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On The US: US & Iran Risk Slipping Back Into All Out War
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has insisted that the ceasefire with Iran is not over despite renewed attacks by the Iranians.Marion McKeone and Larry Donnelly 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!
Should Ireland Switch To Nuclear Power?
Earlier this week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said that Ireland should explore the idea of using nuclear power in order to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.Fianna Fáil TD James O'Connor has introduced a bill to reverse the ban and it is due to be debated in the Dáil in the coming months.Dr. Paul Deane, senior lecturer in Clean Energy Futures at UCC and Senator Malcolm Noonan of the Green Party sp
The Week Trending: Fewer Marriages, Tipping Culture & Bad Behaviour on Planes
This week on The Week Trending TodayFm News Reporter Emily Keegan and head of training at the Communications Clinic Lorcan Nyhan join Matt to discuss the news of the week.They discuss a decline in marriages, Ireland's growing tipping culture and more Hit Play on this page to listen now
Why Is The M50 So Congested And How Can It Be Fixed?
Over the next four weeks, researchers at the Trinity Centre for Transport Research are surveying the opinions of M50 users on how congestion on the motorway impacts their daily lives and what solutions they would like to see.Professor Brian Caulfield, professor of transportation at Trinity College Dublin, joins The Last Word to discuss why the M50 has become so congested and some of the options th
What Next For Patrick Kielty And The Late Late Show?
As the latest series of The Late Late Show comes to an end, rumours of Patrick Kielty’s exit have swirled throughout the week.If he did step aside, could RTE use it as a chance to freshen the show up, and who would be the best candidate to take over as host?Brenda Power, columnist with the Irish Daily Mail and Elaine Burke, The Last Word's TV & Streaming contributor & host of the For
Filmmaker David Gleeson On His Love Letter To Irish Cinemas
Filmmaker David Gleeson joins The Last Word to discuss his latest feature film 'Once Upon A Time In A Cinema' which is based on his own family's experience of running cinemas in rural Ireland.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On Movies: The Devil Wears Prada 2
Cara O’Doherty joins Matt on The Last Word to review the much-anticipated The Devil Wears Prada 2, starring Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Stanley Tucci and Emily Blunt.How does it compare to the first film, which was released 20 years ago?Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear their chat.
Is This The End For LIV Golf?
With the news that the Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund is pulling out of funding LIV golf, many are questioning if this spells the endSports writer Kieran Cunningham joins Matt to discussHit Play on this page to listen now
The Last Word on the Environment: Are Solar Panels For You?
John Gibbons joins Matt to discuss the biggest stories of the week for The Last Word on the Environment.They discuss the Nature Restoration Plan, solar panels and more Hit Play on this page to listen now
Tech Thursday: How To Recognise AI Deepfakes
This week, Tánaiste Simon Harris expressed concern about Artificial Intelligence deepfakes after a 'highly convincing' video falsely portraying him as endorsing investment products circulated online.Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss how to spot a deepfake and a new free online course that aims to upskill people in AI.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: Peter O’Brien
Designer Peter O'Brien joins Matt for this week’s Culture Club on The Last Word.Peter is participating in this year’s ‘Incognito’ campaign, which is Ireland's biggest online art sale in aid of the Jack and Jill Children's Foundation taking place on May 20th.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear his choices.
Katriona O'Sullivan on Her New Book Hungry & Her Journey To Love Her Body
Professor of Psychology and Author Katriona O'Sullivan joins Matt to discuss her new book Hungry: A Biography of My BodyShe gives us a sense of the book and how it deals with her lifelong journey to loving her bodyHit Play on this page to listen now
Tánaiste Simon Harris On Govt Response To Fuel Crisis
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris joins The Last Word to discuss the government's response to the ongoing fuel crisis. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
