Today with David McCullagh
David McCullagh brings you closer to the stories defining your day - with live reports, sharp analysis, and engaging conversations across politics, entertainment, sport, and every day life.
Episodes
Transformation of the National Library of Ireland
Dr Audrey Whitty, Director of the National Library of IrelandSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cue the Conversations: Men's Mental Health
On World Suicide Prevention Day, former football player, Movember ambassador and psychotherapist Richie Sadlier, on how to have the awkward conversations that could save a life.Go to rte.ie/helplines for supportSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
People who get up early in the morning – do they work harder?
Professor Andrew Coogan, behavioral neuroscientist and Director of the Chronobiology and Sleep Research Laboratory at Maynooth University See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minister O'Donovan on the continuing fallout from the McAleese resignation
Patrick O'Donovan – Minister for Culture, Communications and Sport See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Beginner’s Guide to Chemicals
Shane Bergin, Associate Professor of public engagement in science at UCDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Childcare providers demand increase in core funding
Karen Clince, CEO of Tigers ChildcareSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Culture: What to watch for the month ahead
Aoife Barry, Freelance Arts Journalist & co-presenter of the ‘Get Around To It' podcast; Brian Reddin, Producer and DirectorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nitrous Oxide: growing concerns over health impact
Teresa Costello, Fianna Fáil Senator; Dr Colin Doherty, Consultant Neurologist at St James' Hospital and Head of the School of Medicine at Trinity College DublinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The business behind Food Fads
Adam Maguire, RTE Business Journalist See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Flight Disruption: Planes back in the air
Kevin Byrne, retired Air Corps Lieutenant Colonel and airport security and safety auditor / Simon Calder, Travel Correspondent for the London IndependentSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do we need a new local network for cancer care to abolish the postcode lottery?
Dr David Fennelly, Leading consultant medical oncologist, St Vincent’s Hospital in DublinSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What's next for integration of the three Gaelic associations?
Cora Staunton, former Mayo Ladies Footballer / Evanne Ní Chuilinn, author and Fine Gael Senator / Tom Parsons, CEO of the Gaelic Players AssociationSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One Pan Wins - Neven Maguire
Neven Maguire, chef See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Explained: Israeli settlers sanctioned by UK
Patrick Wintour, Guardian Diplomatic EditorSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grief after the loss of your spouse
Stephen Teap, whose wife Irene died from cervical cancer in 2017, and is now CEO of Cork ARC Cancer Support House / June Curtin, husband John died by suicide in 2013 & founder of County Clare's sea-swimming community Snámhaí Sásta / Brittany Dowling, lost her husband suddenly aged 36 in 2024See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Assessment of need, class sizes and divestment
Results of an interesting study found that Irish students are first for reading, third for science and fourth for mathematics out of 27 EU countries. David spoke to Hildegarde Naughton, Minister for Education and Youth Fine Gael TD for Galway West to find out more on this.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eoin McGee: Personal finance Q&A
Eoin McGee, Financial planner. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Out of control influencers and marijuana odours - Chaos at the US open
The USTA has accredited about 100 influencers and content creators for this year’s tournament, but the poor behaviour of fans has become a recurring theme. For more on this David spoke to Kevin Palmer, Journalist with the Irish Independent and co-host of the Off Court with Greg Rusedski podcast and Holly Carpenter, social media content creator.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Parking Wars – Residents compete for spaces in new developments
With thousands of new homes and apartments being built across Ireland, limited parking in some developments has become an ongoing issue and frustration for residents. Our reporter, Florence Okojie has been speaking to some of those affected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coastal Erosion: The areas most at risk
One-fifth of the Republic’s coastline is at very high risk of flooding, erosion, or other coastal hazards. For more on this Kevin Walsh, geoscientist and researcher and University College Cork.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rise in number of children living below poverty line
A new report on child poverty from the Economic and Social Research Institute, show the number of children living below the poverty line rose by almost 30,000 in a year, with 200,000 children now experiencing real childhood deprivation. David was joined by Tanya Ward, CEO of the Children's Rights Alliance for more on this.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
AI benefits employers more than workers
A major new all Ireland survey of 4,300 workers suggests that while AI is boosting productivity, the biggest gains are going to employers rather than employees. David was joined by Professor John Geary from University College Dublin, who led the Working in Ireland Survey 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump Visit
Security preparations are underway for US President Donald Trump's visit to Ireland this weekend. For more on this, David spoke to Scott Lucas, Professor of US Politics at the UCD Clinton Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
'Homegrown' - The story behind Portnoo Market Garden
Barrie Quinn, author of 'Homegrown' and 'The Portnoo Market Garden' on Instagram.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the Assessment of Need fit for purpose?
Minister for Disability Emer Higgins acknowledged that while the Disability Act includes a legally mandated six month period for an assessment of need to be completed, the national average is currently 24 months. For more on this, Nessa Hill, CEO of Neurodiversity Ireland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Zach Polanski: Who is the Green party leader vying for Keir Starmers seat?
Green Party leader Zack Polanski has announced his intention to run in the by-election caused by the resignation from the Commons of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer. For more on this, Mark Paul, London Correspondent with The Irish Times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Von der Leyen visits Greenland
Ursula Von Der Leyen is in Greenland today with a significant financial package expected to be announced. For more on this, Barry Andrews, Fianna Fail Dublin MEP and the parliament’s rapporteur on Greenland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ireland: the 4th highest obesity rate in EU
Professor Donal O'Shea, HSE's National Clinical Lead for Obesity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do I need a will if I have no inheritance to pass on?
Conveyancing and probate solicitor Gwen Bowen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Priest shortage may lead to lay people leading funerals
Bishop of Kildare and Leighlin, Denis Nulty has warned that a shortage of priests means funerals, baptisms and weddings may have to be led by lay people in future. David was joined by Fr Willie Purcell, Parish priest of St Canice's Catholic Parish Kilkenny & National vocations coordinator for the diocesan priesthood.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is working to 70 soon going to become the new normal?
Jennifer Cashman, Head of Employment, with law firm RDJ and Sinead Brady, Career psychologist and author of ‘Total Reset’. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hedge cutting wars
The Irish Road Haulage Association claim that overgrown hedgerows are contributing to serious road safety risks. David was joined by Alan Moore of Hedgerows Ireland and Ger Hyland, president of the Irish Road Hauliers Association.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should parents be held responsible for the criminal acts of their children?
Criminologist Triona O'Connor and Fine Gael TD and co-chair of the Oireachtas penal reform group Barry Ward.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Gathering
Maeve O'Connell, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown, Peadar Tóibín, Leader of Aontú and TD for Meath, Olivia Kelly, Dublin Editor of the Irish Times, Sinead O’Carroll, Editor of The Journal.ieSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Irish bands that DID and DID NOT make it in the US
Graham Smyth, Musician & 2FM broadcaster assesses Irish band hits and misses in the US.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minister reacts as first day of new measures on e-scooters is rolled out
Darragh O'Brien, TD Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy and Minister for Transport. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Book: 'Squad Girls'
Evanne Ní Chuilinn, author and Fine Gael Senator. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Irish GP who tackled an axe wielding attacker
An Irish GP working in Australia has received an award for tackling an axe-wielding attacker who tried to kill his colleague. Dr. Fergus McCabe, originally from Dublin, was this week recognised for an act of bravery by the Australian governor-general. Dr McCabe takes us back to exactly what happened on the morning of September 28th 2023. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Noise Pollution from Data Centre - 'Robert' a resident affected tells his story
Residents described a persistent humming, primarily at night but also during the day, one of the affected residents Robert spoke to David. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
House price inflation puts middle income earners under pressure
Carol Tallon, CEO of Property District and PhD researcher in spatial planning at University of Galway. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
E-scooter helmet and hi-vis compliance - Florence Okojie Reports
New rules for e-scooter riders have come into effect today, meaning it's now mandatory to wear a helmet and high-visibility clothing while using an e-scooter. Our reporter Florence Okojie was at Dublin Port's Tolka Estuary Greenway this morning. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Limerick comedian wins Best Newcomer at Edinburgh Fringe
Comedian, Marty Gleeson.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Catalpa: The story of one of the most dramatic jailbreaks in history
Michael B Barry, Author & Historian. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Super El Nino: What is it going to mean for you?
Sadhbh O’Neill, Climate and environmental researcher and Jennie Stephens, Professor of Climate Justice at the ICARUS Climate Research Centre at the National University of Ireland Maynooth. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Catherine Connolly to meet Donald Trump at the Áras
Mary Regan, Political Editor, Irish Independent and Dan Mulhall, former Ambassador of Ireland to the United States. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why teen TV is thriving again
Fionnuala Jones, Presenter and broadcaster and Édaein O' Connell, Freelance Journalist. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shuttered shop fronts and dying main streets
As towns and communities across Ireland continue to grow, concerns are being raised about the loss of local shops and essential services. For more on this reporter,Florence Okojie.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Government says they're committed to advancing the rights and improving lives of people with disabilities
Emer Higgins, Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
EPA investigates persistent hum at Clondalkin data centre
Cllr. Eoin O’Broin, Social Democrat councillor for Clondalkin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Getting a leg up: Parents selling family homes to their children
Eoin McGee, Financial planner.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First Aid at home - Dr. Máire Finn
Can you prepare for an emergency? Which ones can be managed at home? And when do you need to seek medical attention? Dr Maire Finn, GP has some first aid at home tips.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Twelve Fields: An Irish Family Farm - Phil and Liv Stewart
Phil and Liv Taylor have a family farm in Ballinamore in county Longford. They're best known for their impressive following on social media and have now written a new book called ‘An Irish Family Farm in Twelve Fields’.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What’s in your honey – and should new labelling rules be extended to other foods?
EU labelling changes this week mean a lot of us are finding out for the first time where our honey comes from, if indeed it is honey at all. Should we now be looking at other foods? For more, reporter Brian O'Connell. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New rules on e-scooters – will they make any difference?
Shane Moynihan, Fianna Fáil TD for Dublin Mid-West & party transport spokesperson. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Meeting of EU Foreign Ministers
Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with Euronews. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Fall of Fast Fashion
Shoppers have raised concerns about fast fashion's consequences, from its reliance on plastic fabrics and its enormous carbon footprint, to its erosion of workers’ rights. RTE Business journalist Adam Maguire has more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
NTA proposes improved access for pets on public transport after consultation
Kathleen Murray, Dog Behaviour Therapist and Columnist and Features Journalist, Deirdre Reynolds.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Boxing’s Big Night – the fight of his life for the man on Katie Taylor’s undercard
On Saturday night, 80,000 sports fans will fill Croke Park for one of the biggest Irish sporting occasions in years… Katie Taylor’s final professional ring walk. David spoke to Tyrone "The Mighty Celt" McKenna, Belfast Professional Boxer who will be fighting in Croke Park.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Would you use the €480 Dyson Toothbrush?
Its WIFI enabled, equipped with a camera and costs almost 500 euro - the new Dyson toothbrush promises to revolutionise oral hygiene but is it just the latest expensive unnecessary gadget that will end up gathering dust on the bathroom shelf? For more Dr Will Rymer, general dentist in Roscrea.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New laws failing pre-teens on Social Media
Aaron Wolfe, Principal of Coláiste Éamann Rís in Cork City. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Barry Cummins on Ireland's only known hitwoman
Rose Lynch is known as Ireland’s only female assassin, Lynch was jailed for life in 2011 after admitting to pulling the trigger and killing innocent dad-of-two David Darcy for which she’s now serving a life sentence in Limerick Prison. Crime reporter and co-host of the RTE Unsolved podcast Barry Cummins tells us more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should you wear a helmet when cycling?
While helmets are seen as an obvious safety measure for some, the question of making their usage compulsory remains controversial. Our reporter Florence Okojie has been looking at the issue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why are members of leaving cert Maths reform group resigning
Prof. Pauline Mellon, Emeritus Professor of Mathematics and Statistics UCD and Humphrey Jones, Head of Biology & Science at St. Columba’s College.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Could the Clarkson effect attract young people to farming
Dr Fiona Williams, Harper Adams University Business School- Co-author of the UK research on young people’s perceptions of agriculture and Brian Leonard, Assistant Professor in Agricultural and Food Economics in School of Agriculture & Food Science.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New heart attack definition reverses bias against women that endangered health
Janis Morrissey, Deputy CEO & Director of Services at the Irish Heart Foundation and Dr. Róisín Colleran, Consultant Cardiologist at Mater Private Network in Dublin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Young Irish workers facing significant issues in jobs market
A new report published today highlights significant issues facing workers under 25 in the Irish jobs market. Limerick have had some of the highest youth employment rates in the country, reporter Brian O'Connell met with some of those at the frontline trying to impact youth unemployment levels in Limerick. David also spoke to Kathryn Walsh, Director of Policy and Advocacy at NYC
Submarine hunting British warship and helicopter patrolling off Wicklow coast
Conor Gallagher, Crime and Security Correspondent of The Irish Times.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former gang leader found guilty of Tupac Shakur’s murder
Anoushka Mutanda Dougherty, BBC Presenter who was in the court in Las Vegas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The NCCA respond to leaving cert reform group resignations
Arlene Foster, Chief Executive, The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment and Rachel Linney, Director with The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment who oversees the maths curriculum. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Five south Dublin Dart level crossings face closure
Dr. Mark Gleeson, Spokesperson for Rail Users Ireland campaign group and Barry Kenny, Head of Corporate Communications, Irish Rail.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Free legal aid dispute enters another month
Ian McNamara, a criminal solicitor and spokesperson for the law society of Ireland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to care for your ageing pet
How do you know when your pet has crossed into "old age" and what should you be watching out for. Vet Lucy Jerram shares some tips and advice.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Electronic tagging offenders: Does it work?
Does electronic tagging work and what does it mean for the victims of crime. Reporter, Elizabeth Hearst. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ready for the unexpected: How to prep for a national emergency
Kevin Byrne, retired Air Corps Lieutenant Colonel and Kevin McSherry, openseason.ie, Nenagh Co Tipperary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nepal flash floods: Death toll rises as rescue efforts continue
Gangaram Kandel, Acting Chairman of Nepal Ireland Society and Lucy Easthope, Disaster Specialist.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What are the rules for flying a drone?
Enda Walsh, UAS (Drone) Manager at the Irish Aviation Authority.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Teacher saves hundreds of children from Nepal flash floods
Chris Haslam, Chief Travel Writer with the Times and Sunday Times. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do the animal kingdom and students have in common?
Donna Mullen, Ecologist and author of 'Make Your Home a Nature Reserve'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Gathering
Roderic O’Gorman, Leader of the Green Party and TD for Dublin West, Tom Brabazon, Fianna Fáil TD representing Dublin Bay North, Elaine Loughlin, Political Editor with the Irish Examiner, Mary Regan, Political Editor with the Irish Independent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Pulitzer Prize winning author on how the rise of technology corrodes democracy
Jill LeporeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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