Behind the Story
Tune in for insightful and informed conversation as Fran McNulty, Paul Cunningham and some of RTÉ's top journalists digest the news stories of the day. Expect deep dives, analysis, interesting guests, and maybe even some laughs along the way. New episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
Episodes
Violence in the North and Dublin's illegal clamp cutters
On today's Behind the Story, Paul and Fran examine the racist violence that erupted in Northern Ireland following a stabbing incident, exploring the scapegoating of migrants and economic insecurity in fuelling unrest, and how social media can amplify tensions and spread misinformation.They also investigate why nearly one-in-ten Dublin City Council wheel clamps are being illegally removed or destro
The Kinahan lieutenant who directed murder
Sean McGovern, one of the most senior figures in the Kinahan Organised Crime Group to be convicted in the Irish courts, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for directing the gang's activities in relation to the murder of Noel Kirwan and the attempted murder of James Gately. The sentencing hearing provided a rare insight into how the Kinahan organisation operated at the height of the Hutch-Kin
Row at the Rotunda and fight at Croke Park!
A row has broken out between the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and the Rotunda Hospital over the issue of public only consultants doing private work in the hospital. But what exactly is going on? Priscilla Lynch of the Medical Independent joins Fran and Eamon to explain the disagreement and why the Minister is threatening to withhold funding to the hospital. Later, Eamon and F
A new scrappage scheme and how the murder of Henry Nowak sparked riots
Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien is set to introduce a new €10million pilot scrappage scheme to encourage drivers to switch to electric cars. Paul and Fran discussed the proposed scheme and how it is designed to favour people living in rural Ireland. Later, the duo are joined by journalist Vincent McAviney who explains the background to the riots in Southampton on Tuesday night. Bodyca
Looking ahead to the World Cup
With just 10 days to go to the World Cup, Fran is joined by Sky Sports correspondent Rob Harris for a chat about the tournament. The duo discuss tickets, travel costs and with Iran switching it's training base to Mexico, it is possible to host the games without politics getting in the way?! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump's birthday plans and celebrating Freedom 250!
Construction is underway for the staging of a UFC fight on the front lawn of the White House to mark President Trump's 80th birthday in June. Numerous other events and projects are also in the pipeline to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American Independence in July. Niall Stanage, Associate Editor with The Hill joins Fran and Sharon to discuss the plans and where the money is coming from
A campervan, coffee machines and a slouch pouch onesie: Nicola Sturgeon's husband's spending spree!
Peter Murrell, estranged husband of former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon pled guilty this week to embezzlling £400k from the Scottish National Party. Over a 12 years period, Mr Murrell spent money from the party on luxury items. Ms Sturgeon, has denied all knowledge of his behaviour. Veteran reporter Brian Taylor joins Fiona and Paul to discuss the case and the fallout to it. Lat
Development in Kyran Durnin murder case and chatbots in elections
A woman has been arrested as part of the investigation into the disappearance and murder of Kyran Durnin. Crime correspondent Paul Reynolds joins Fran with the latest. Later, Liz Carolan of The Briefing.ie and Dr Eoghan Cunningham of UCD discuss new research into chatbots in the recent Dublin Central and Galway West by elections and examine how political messaging on social media is changing.
Did the Gaza flotilla change the mood music? and the 'Steroid' Olympics!
Fourteen Irish citizens are en route back to Ireland following their deportation by Israel. They were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla along with hundreds of other activists. The government and EU leaders have expressed dismay at the actions of the Israeli authorites. So, has the political mood changed as a result? Later, Fran and Eamon are joined by former Olympic swimmer Nick O'Hare
Meta job losses, AI and RTÉ at the committee [again]
The scale of possible job losses announced by Meta today, came as a surprise to many, up to 350 people could be made redundant in the coming months. Brian O'Donovan joins Fran and Paul to outline the situation and later, Tara McIndoe-Calder of the ESRI discusses AI and it's impact on future work. Fran and Paul also discuss the latest appearance by RTÉ management at the media committee. S
How supermarkets learn about your shopping habits and predicting floods
Supermarkets are increasingly using information about customer shopping habits to develop new pricing structures and influence how you shop. Consumer journalist Caitriona Redmond joins Fran for a chat about dynamic pricing, robots and AI shopping trolleys. Later, Environment correspondent, George Lee speak to Fran about a new flood prediction app that uses publicly available information to pr
'Money, Money, Mooney': RTÉ, China deals and Eurovision!
RTÉ published a revised list of the top 10 highest earners for 2024 which included Derek Mooney after it said it had 'reconsidered what constitutes a presenter'. Mr Mooney was previously not included as he was treated as a producer in the accounts. The media Minister is not happy and will meet RTÉ management next week. Fran and Adam discuss who knew, what and when and what this means for the
Bertie caught on camera and shopping scams on the rise!
Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern was recorded without his knowledge on a canvas for the bye-election in Dublin Central. His comments on immigration and second generation Muslims have sparked a storm of criticism. Mr Ahern later walked back his remarks. Political correspondent Barry Lenihan joins Fran and Paul to explain how the video came to light and the response to it. Later, Digital Marketing
Fire in Waterford city and Starmer's last chance saloon!
Over the weekend, a huge fire broke out in the Tycor area of Waterford. Dozens of businesses have been destroyed and government is promising an emergency aid package for those affected. Damien Tiernan joins Fran and Sharon, he describes the importance of the premises and why it will take months to rebuild/relocate companies. Later, Associate Professor of Politics at Keele University, Dr Kathr
Parking rows and driving to matches
As restrictions around the number of car parking spaces allowed in new developments increasingly come into play, rows are breaking out between householders over parking. With limited or no public transport in some areas, people are parking cars in other estates. Dr Lorraine D'arcy of TU Dublin joins Fran and Eamon to discuss parking and why parents are struggling to get kids to matches and tr
The failures in the investigation into Katie Simpson's murder
An independent review into the death of Katie Simpson found 'institutional misogyny' at the centre of failings by the PSNI to investigate her murder. In August 2020, the 21 year old showjumper was admitted to hospital, police initially treated her death as suicide however, seven months later, her sister's partner, Jonathan Creswell was arrested on suspicion of murder. He later took his own l
Treks and trails: why Ireland's hills need help
Many people enjoy trekking hills and mountains on bank holiday weekends but the majority of the country's uplands are in very poor state. A recent report revealed that 90% of our protected habitats are in an 'unfavourable' condition. Ecologist Pádraic Fogarty joins Fran for a conversation about what can be done to improve nature on the country's hillsides and he shares his favourite spots in
US troops in Europe and Christians in the White House!
A war of words has broken out between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump, with Trump threatening to withdraw US troops from some European countries. Shona Murray of Euronews joins Fran to explain the background to the row and why it's not likely troops would withdraw any time soon. Later, Professor of Ecclesiology, Massimo Faggioli of TCD discusses the different st
Fuel supports and the electric buses going nowhere!
The government gave more detail on the latest fuel supports for farmers and agricultural contractors but will it be enough to help the sector? And is there a 'green' divide opening up between urban and rural Ireland? a recent report shows that urban dwellers are benefitting more from sustainability grants. TCD Professor of Transportation Brian Caulfield joins Fran and Paul to discuss if EV ca
How do character references work?
Character references in court have come back under the spotlight after former TD Jim Glennon issued a character reference for Daniel Ramamoorthy. Ramamoorthy was a former government adviser who was convicted of the sexual exploitation of a 13-year-old boy in 2017. RTÉ Legal Affairs Correspondent Órla O’Donnell discusses the details of the case, and why details of who gives character references are
Radio 1's new sound and could Italy go to the World Cup?
Why did RTÉ Radio 1 change the familiar tunes attached to its programmes? Media correspondent Evelyn O'Rourke joins Fran and Eamon to discuss the controversy that erupted over the decision to switch the music and she reveals how many complaints the broadcaster received. Later, Fran and Eamon look at the suggestion by a Trump 'Special Envoy' that Italy should replace Iran in the World Cup in J
Milluns and Billuns and increased security threats
The government revealed in the spring economic statement that it is expecting a surplus of €9bn, up from €5bn, however despite the extra money, it's unlikely the purse strings will be opened. Business reporter Adam Maguire joins Fran and Paul to explain how we are awash with money, but can't spend it! Later, Retired Vice Admiral of the Irish Navy, Mark Mellet discusses the security threats th
Starmer says it's 'frankly staggering' he wasn't told that Mandelson failed security vetting
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke in the House of Commons today to explain how he wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting for the position of UK Ambassador to the United States. Starmer blamed officials at the Foreign Office for not telling him. Reporter Kate Varley joins Fran to discuss the background the controversy, while, Jon Tonge, Professor of Politics assesses i
Peptides, biohacking, deep plane facelifts: inside the booming anti-ageing industry
Fran and Evelyn are joined by presenter Kathryn Thomas to discuss the booming anti-ageing and longetivity industry. More and more people are turning to new scientifc advances to try and extend their lives, however, many of the supplements and procedures are unregulated and untested in humans. Kathryn's two part documentary 'Young Forever' also explores the last advances in aesthetics and asks if w
Media Minister switches to reverse gear and why is holding the EU Presidency a big deal?
Fran and Paul discuss Minister Patrick O'Donovan's change of heart in relation to a request for Coimisiún na Meán to review coverage of the fuel protests. And, Ireland will take over the EU Presidency on July 1st for six months. 278 meetings will be held in the country which will present a significant security and logistics challenge. So what's involved? Europe Editor, Tony Connelly explains
Protests: Minister not happy with media and Trump not happy with the Pope!
The government announced an additional package of support to help with the impact of higher fuel prices. While the blockades have stopped, Minister Patrick O'Donovan has said he is not happy with the media coverage of last week's protests. Political correspondant, Mícheál Lehane joins Fran to discuss the package and the political fallout. Later, Professor Scott Lucas outlines the row between
Fuel protests, prediction markets and merch at the Masters!
No deal unless the protests are called off, so says the government in response to the escalating crisis surrounding the fuel protests. Laura Fletcher and Eamon Horan discuss who the protestors are, an informal meeting in Burger King and how the government is handling the situation. Later, markets reporter with the Business Post, Kathleen Gallagher explains what predictions markets are and how
Hungary for change? Could Orbán lose power? and the US-Iran ceasefire
Latest opinion polls indicate that there is a significant chance that Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary could lose power after in Sunday's election. Suzanne Lynch of Bloomberg joins Fran and Paul to discuss the challenge to Orbán and if the visit of the US Vice President, JD Vance helps or hinders his chances. Later, as both sides claim victory, Fiona Mitchell dissects the ceasefi
How forcing remote workers to return to the office can backfire!
Increasingly, companies are insisting remote workers return to the office full time. This is causing tension between employees and management. However, there is evidence that forcing people to return is counterproductive and could result in a business losing it's best talent. Professor Kevin Murphy, of University of Limerick joins Fran to discuss the pros and cons of WFH. See omnystudio.
Up, Up and away: what to consider before booking a flight!
The airline industry is sounding the alarm over jet fuel shortages. The cost of aviation fuel has doubled since the Iran war broke out and some airlines are cancelling flights. Travel expert Eoghan Corry and Aviation expert Marina Efthymiou join Fran for a deep dive on the concern within the industry and what's expected to happen, if they conflict continues. Eoghan has advice for those planni
Trump on Iran war and threats to leave NATO [again]!
Contradictory statements continue to flow from President Trump and his administration on the Iran war. Trump expects the conflict to end in a few weeks, meanwhile the US military presence continues to expand in the Gulf. Dr Patrick Bury, security and defence lecturer at the University of Bath joins Fran to explain how a military attack on Kharg Island might take place and what would be involv
Paying more for chocolate and energy this Easter!
Inflation figures released today show prices rose by 1.8% since last month. RTÉ's David Murphy joins Fran to explain the latest figures and the measures government has taken so far to try and alleviate the rising energy costs. Later, David Lubin - Global Economics expert from think tank Chatham House explains how China could be the winner in the short term as the price of oil continues to ris
Drug intimidation in rural areas and Max Verstappen's hissy fit!
Drug initimidation gangs are threatening families in rural areas. At a recent community meeting in Co Galway, a young women told people how an armed and masked gang turned up to her parents house demanding money. Reporter Jacqueline Hogge joined Fran and co host, Eamon Horan to chat about drug use in rural areas. Later, Fran and Eamon discuss Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen's outburst at a pr
Guilty: how murderer Stephen McCullagh's alibi unravelled
You Tuber Stephen McCullagh was found guilty of the murder of his pregnant girlfriend Natalie McNally on Monday in a Belfast court. Northern Correspondant Conor Macauley was in court and shares details from the case with Paul and co-host, Dyane Connor. Conor says he had never seen anything like the reaction after the jury delivered the guilty verdict. Natalie McNally was killed in December 20
Will Gov fuel supports help bring down the price at the pump? and a Love Story!
It's widely anticipated the Government will announce fuel supports in an attempt to soften the blow of increasing petrol and diesel prices. Paul Deane, Senior lecturer in Clean Energy Futures joins Evelyn O'Rourke to discuss market reaction to President Trump claim that he is close to a deal with Iran and that the price of oil will 'drop like a rock'. Later, reporter Jenn Gannon explains why
Trapped in Dubai: the Kinahan crime gang
Earlier this week, a leading figure in the Kinahan crime gang, Sean McGovern pled guilty at the Special Criminal Court to directing a criminal gang in relation to the murder of one man and the surveillance of another. McGovern is the first person to be extradited from the UAE to face trial. Author and crime reporter Barry Cummins joins Fran to discuss the case and examine why the Kinahan crime gro
Why is the tech bro Peter Thiel warning about the Antichrist?
One of the world's leading tech billionaires, Peter Thiel is in Rome this week, giving a series of 'behind closed doors' lectures on the Antichrist. The Vatican is not impressed. Reporter Amy Kazmin of the Financial Times joins Fran and Paul to discuss the reaction to Thiel's talks. Later, Professor of Ecclesiology, Massimo Faggioli explains the tension between advances in AI, Pope Leo and Catholi
Oscar success, Timothée's ballet faux pas and Taoiseach's high wire act
Jessie Buckley made history by becoming the first Irish woman to win Best Actress at the Academy Awards. Success too for Dubliner Richie Baneham who won his third Oscar for his work on Avatar. Evelyn O'Rourke tells Fran all about the night, the reaction to the wins but also how the night unravelled for Timothée Chalamet. Later, Fran is joined by Washington Correspondent, Jackie Fox, as she lo
Has the manosphere gone mainstream? and inside the Oscars!
Earlier this week, a documentary by Louis Theroux landed on Netflix. Fran is joined by Professor Debbie Ging of DCU to discuss the growth of the manosphere and how misogynist behaviour and beliefs are spreading. Debbie also talks about what's happening in this country and points to some positive male influencers who are challenging the manosphere. Later, Fran is joined by Evelyn O'Rourke, art
What's happening with the electric car market?
New figures released today show that used EVs are priced 11% below comparable diesel vehicles. After a fall in the value of electric cars, the market appears to have stabilised, which is attracting buyers back to considering an EV purchase. Fran and Paul are joined by Geraldine Herbert to discuss what's happened and how higher range vehicles are becoming more affordable. Fran and Paul also di
Pump prices, inflation and Gulf food supplies
Oil prices surged today to their highest levels since 2022. Stocks fell as the fallout from the Iran conflict continues to hit the economy and your pocket! Economics Editor David Murphy joins Fran to explain what's happening on the markets and why the price of petrol and home heating oil is rising so fast. Later Fran talks to Middle East expert Christian Henderson about food supplies in the G
The suspicious death of Liam Farrell and Mr Beast's foray into finance!
Leitrim man Liam Farrell's death in 2020 was in suspicious circumstances. His family received news on Thursday that the Minister for Justice has authorised the exhumation of the body. The Garda Serious Crime Review Team are continuing to investigate the case. Liam's son, Brendan Farrell joins Fran to discuss how the family hope they will get answers to what happened to their Dad. Later,
Enoch Burke's mother and sister to be jailed and the cost of war.
"The family circus has to end' says Justice Brian Cregan who, today, ordered that Enoch Burke's mother and sister be sent to jail for two weeks for contempt of court. Legal Affairs correspondant Orla O'Donnell joins Paul and Fran to discuss the latest twist in the Burke family's ongoing disruption of court proceedings. Later, Security and Warfare expert, Patrick Bury of University of Bath sha
Bonus: Remember GPO Girl? There's a development!
In 2013, the Gardaí, with permission from the courts, released a picture of an unidentified girl to try and find out who she was. Within hours, they had a name: Samantha Azzopardi, an Australian serial fraudster. Azzopardi was deported and subsequently jailed but it now appears she's back to her old habits!! You can listen to the Finding Samantha podcast here: https://www.rte.ie/radio/podcast
How the Iran crisis could hit your pocket and EU response
As the US-Iran conflict escalates, oil prices have begun to rise, so what impact could the crisis have on prices here? Adam Maguire of the RTÉ Business desk joins Fran and Maggie to explain why the Straits of Hormuz is so important and how shipping is already re-routing away from the region. Later, Professor John O'Brennan of Maynooth University discusses the EU response, the potential to get
BONUS - US attacks Iran
The US and Israel have commenced 'major combat operations' against Iran. Iran has responded by hitting sites in several Gulf States including Israel. Fran and Paul are joined by Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East Editor with the Economist and by Ali Vaez, Iran Project Director with the International Crisis Group to discuss the situation and to explore the possible outcome of US action and the increased
Who is Larry Goodman? and axing the Arts degree?
Larry Goodman is one of Ireland's richest men, with a business empire that stretches from beef to healthcare and property. A new two part TV documentary 'Goodman - Too Big to Fail' looks at how his business collapsed two governments and brought in the era of tribunals. Ella McSweeney and Ciarán Cassidy share insights from the documentary. Later, Arts and Media correspondant, Evelyn O'Rourke j
Protecting our seas, a billion dollar deal and Punch the monkey!
The government published the country's first maritime strategy today, but what's in it? and do we have the money to pay for it? Former Army Ranger and TD, Dr Cathal Berry joins Fran and Paul to tease out the plan. Later, RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan discusses the possibility that Stripe - the payment firm may buy PayPal, which would be a significant move for the Collison Brothers from Limerick, who
Focus on Ukraine
As the 4th anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches, Professor Donnacha Ó' Beacháin joins Fran and Laura to discuss the situation now. A planned European Union loan of €90bn for Ukraine has been blocked by Hungary so what needs to happen to support the country in the future? Later, Fran takes a look at a special project at the University of Limerick where Irish, Ukrainian and EU
Andrew's arrest and the story behind that photo!
Following the arrest and release of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor by Thames Police, the story continues to dominate world headlines. Historian and author of 'Entitled', Andrew Lownie joins Fran and Maggie to discuss the unprecedented nature of the arrest and his research into the former Prince's activities as a trade envoy. Fran and Maggie also reveal the story behind the photo that was taken of
'It's a race': the risk of cyber threats is increasing
Richard Browne, the Director of the National Cyber Security Centre joined Fran and Paul for a deep dive into the cyber risks facing the country. AI is acclerating the number of attacks globally and even the National Cyber Risk Assessment document, published in December is already out of date in parts. Richard explains the type of threats that are evolving and how some nation states are active
The search for JoJo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob
"I have a lift, bye'... the last words of Jo Jo Dullard in 1995 before she went missing. Gardaí declared her case a murder investigation in 2020. Deirdre Jacob went missing in 1998, her case was upgraded to a murder enquiry in 2018. Today, a new search began in a quarry in Co Wicklow, it is the first time both cases have been linked by the authorities. Crime journalist and author Barry Cummins joi
What's going on with the proposed National Children's Science Centre?
An agreement between the OPW and a charity to build a National Children's Science Centre has run aground. The OPW says it doesn't have the money and no government department wants to take responsability for it however it was revealed on Thursday that the building MUST be delivered by 2029. So what is going on? Public Affairs Correspondant with the Irish Times, Martin Wall joins Fran and and Laura
Can diplomacy help Seamus Culleton? and a Norwegian confession!
Irish man Seamus Culleton who is detained by ICE in a facility in Texas went public with his story yesterday and appealed to politicians to help get him released. But would diplomacy help or hinder the situation? Former Irish Ambassador to the US, Dan Mulhall joins Fran and Paul to discuss what could be done. The duo also explain the latest developments in the review into children's spinal su
How 'auction fever' is fuelling bidding wars on homes and Starmer's woes!
House buyers who bid on properties in open or online auctions are pushing prices up more than they can afford. Bidders in sealed auctions pay less and don't go beyond their budget. A new report by ESRI examines the behaviour of bidders in different house buying systems. Professor Pete Lunn joins Fran and Maggie to explain the research and the psychology at play when someone is bidding on a propert
Winter Olympics and the politics of sports bans
As the Winter Olympics gets underway in Italy, RTE Sport's Eamon Horan joins Fran and Laura to discuss the Irish hopefuls at the games and the controversy around penis injections in ski jumping! Later, Assistant Lecturer in Global Business at TUD, Richard Woodward, discusses the ongoing ban of Russian and Belarusian athletes from international sporting competitions. FIFA and the IOC signalled
Commuter hell for students and pressure grows on Starmer
A new survey from the University of Limerick Student Union found 60% of commuter students travelled more than one hour each way to campus during the last academic year. Commuting is having a substantial impact on students’ academic performance, financial security and wellbeing.Dervla Ryan, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at UL Students’ Union, discusses the survey – and what needs to be done to
Why are farmers fighting with Bord Bia? And danger here: US visa rules ahead of World Cup
A bitter row has broken out over the last week between farmer organisations and the Chair of Bord Bia, but what's it all about? Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Correspondent Aengus Cox joins Fran to explain what's going on and why he believes both sides have become entrenched in their positions. Later, Editor of Travel Extra, Eoghan Corry discusses the proposed changes to the ESTA visa waive
Can nature help stop flooding and are you tipping too much?
The Slaney and Dodder rivers burst their banks and flooded surrounding areas following subtantial rainfall over the past few days. And while the clean up has begun, more rain in expected over the next 24 hours. Could the flooding have been predicted? and are there nature based solutions that could help prevent floods. Professor of Geography at TCD, Mary Bourke joins Fran and Karen to explain
Minneapolis: Is the US facing into the abyss? And the EU focus returns to Grok
Officials in US President Donald Trump's administration continue to defend the fatal shooting on Saturday of a man by immigration agents in Minneapolis, even as video evidence contradicts their version of events.Alex Pretti, who worked as an intensive care nurse, is the second US citizen to be fatally shot by ICE this month in Minneapolis.Niall Stanage, White House columnist with The Hill, joins F
The murder of Marilyn Rynn - how Gardaí caught her killer
As the man who murdered Dublin woman Marilyn Rynn in December 1995 is released from prison, author and crime journalist Barry Cummins details the investigation into her murder and the role DNA played in helping Gardaí identify David Lawler as her killer.Barry's been chatting to Fran and Karen about the case that gripped the country in the early days of 1996.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy
Trump's demand: 'We want a piece of ice' and billionaires squabble!
As President Trump continues to make demands, newly minted Washington Correspondent, Jackie Fox joins Fran and Fiona to discuss the US President's extraordinary speech at Davos this afternoon. Later, the duo are joined by business correspondent Fergal O'Brien who sat in on the Ryanair press conference today. Michael O'Leary took aim at the world's richest man, Elon Musk [again] as he launched
Trump's tariff threats and what could it mean for Ireland?
As US President Donald Trump issued tariff threats on 8 European countries, Fran [yes, he's back] and Karen speak to Chief Economist with the Institute of European Affairs, Dan O'Brien. The tariff threats are retaliation for the countries disagreeing with Trump's demand to own Greenland. Dan explains the impact of the previous round of tariffs and says that there's comes a time when economics
China-Ireland relations and what is a k-hole?
Earlier this week, it was reported that China's trade surplus has reached $1.9 trillion last year, a 20% increase on 2024. As China exports continue to grow, Agriculture and Consumer Affairs correspondent Aengus Cox joins Evelyn and Karen to discuss his recent trip to China and what it was like to be stopped by police in Shanghai. Later, reporter Julieanne Corr of the Sunday Times discusses t
Leaving X, Grok AI and is Dublin City Council on the move?
Senior Gardaí appeared at the Oireachtas media committee today where they revealed they are investigated two hundred complaints about Grok AI and child abuse imagery. Work and Technology correspondent Brian O'Donovan joins Evelyn and Karen to discuss the committee hearing, which politicians are leaving X and if the authorities are playing catch up with AI developments. Later, retired architec
Jessie wins and Iran on the edge
Jessie Buckley won Best Actress at the Golden Globes for her performance in 'Hamnet', an adaptation of the best selling book of the same name by Coleraine born author Maggie O'Farrell. Evelyn O'Rourke and Maggie Doyle discuss the win, what it means for Irish acting talent and if this could be the start of even more awards for the actress from Killarney. Later, the duo are joined by Profe
The Mercosor deal and On The Beat with the Gardaí!
A majority of EU States voted to pass the Mercosor trade deal with South American countries. Ireland, along with 4 other countries voted against the deal. Professor John O'Brennan of Maynooth University joins Evelyn O'Rourk to explain the deal, Ireland's position and why it's not over the line just yet. Later, Dara Tallon, producer of 'On The Beat' - the fly on the wall TV documentary followi
Tankers, Tourism and Grok AI
The Government is hoping to attract more tourists here from India, the UAE and the Asia-Pacific region as part of a new strategic investment plan of €4.7 billion across a range of sectors. Political Correspondent Mícheál Lehane joined Evelyn and Karen to outline what's in the plan and looks at the changing political mood around climate targets. Later, teacher and researcher Eoghan Cleary
Maduro in court and Venezuela's future
Ousted President Maduro was brought to court in New York this afternoon to face drugs and weapons charges. Meanwhile, it remains unclear who is really running Venezuela amidst claims by President Trump that the US is in charge. The UN Security Council is meeting in an emergency session as the American administration continues to threaten other countries including Greenland saying it needs to
Inside FIFA and who is Infantino?
With less than six months to the kick off of the World Cup, Fran is joined by sports reporter, Miguel Delaney for a deep dive into how FIFA operates and asks who is Gianni Infantino. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Entertainment year in review
Kneecap, Traitors, Adolescence and the Eurovision, just some of the big entertainment stories that hit the headlines this year. Streaming continues to grow and threatens to upend how we watch and enjoy movies. Actors unions and the big studios are concern about the future. Despite this, it was a good year for Irish musicians, actors and production companies.Fran talks to Arts and Media Corresponde
Business year in review 2025
Concerns around US tariffs dominated the first half of the year in 2025. While on the domestic front, the debate around working from home continued as many businesses insisted their employees return to the workplace. The school secretaries strike was one of the year's big industrial actions and the challenges of meeting housing targets were never far from the headlines. RTÉ's Brian O’Donovan
The highs and lows of AI in 2025
As the year comes to an end, Fran takes a look back at some of the stories on artificial intelligence that were covered on the podcast. From new guidelines, AI music, technology in schools and AI therapy chatbots, the technology continues to challenge and upend many industries. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dáil rows, tariff threats - the political year in review
Dáil rows, Trump's tariff threats and a Presidential campaign: Professor Gary Murphy of DCU and political reporter Sandra Hurley join Fran to dissect and analyse the year in politics. The trio discuss the emergence of Michael Lowry TD as a power broker in government formation and the decision by Sinn Féin to back Independent TD Catherine Connolly for the run at the Áras which she ultimately won.&n
Fallout from the Fianna Fáil report and a visit to a refugee camp
Twenty four hours on from the publication of the Fianna Fáil report into their Presidential campaign, Fran and Barry dissect the reaction to the report and examine the pressure on Party leader Michéal Martin. Later, reporter Kate Varley joins the duo and chats about her recent trip to Bangladesh. Kate visited Cox's Bazaar, home to 1.3million Rohinyga refugees and explains how recent aid cuts
Pressure on FF to release report and positive noise from Ukraine talks
Pressure is mounting on Fianna Fáil to release the report into the Jim Gavin Presidential campaign. Three senior party members said today that the report must come out this week. Joe Mag Raollaigh joins Fran to tease out the timeframe around the report and explain why the pressure is building inside the party. Later, Fran is joined by Europe reporter for Euronews, Shona Murray to discuss the
Ireland's largest ever water project and what's going on in Venezuela?
Uisce Éireann announced that it will submit plans for the country's largest ever water project next week. The plan involves building a 170km underground pipe to take water from the Shannon and bring it to Dublin and surrounding counties. Environment correspondent, George Lee joins Fran to explain the project, why it's necessary and why there is opposition to it. Later, Fran is joined by repor
RTÉ at the committee, media deals and is the door open for Tubridy's return?
RTÉ's Director General, Kevin Bakhurst and the leadership team appeared at the Oireachtas media committee today to give an update on developments at the broadcaster. Fran and Barry Lenihan discuss the issues politicians were keen to get answers on including whether Mr Bakhurst was invited to Ryan Tubridy's wedding! Later, Adam Maguire joins Fran and Barry to explain the other big media story
Edenderry attack and drug debt intimidation
Gardaí have described the fatal attack on a family home in Edenderry as 'callous, reckless and murderous'. Mary Holt and her four year old grand nephew died in a fire that was started deliberately on Saturday night. Investigating Gardaí are saying one line of inquiry is that an organised drug gang may have targeted the house in a case of drug debt intimidation. Limerick based Addiction counse
Boat strikes in the Caribbean and revealing your Spotify Wrapped!
The US military and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth are under pressure over the killing of 11 people during a boat strike on Sept. 2nd. Louise Byrne and Cian McCormack are joined by Niall Stanage of The Hill who explains the controversy and why the administration is standing firm on it's policy of attacking so-called 'narco-terrorists. Later, Cian and Louise reveal their listening age on Sp
