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
Bomb found in car near border and Dior comes to Dublin
Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly has described as "extremely significant" the discovery of a bomb in car that was stopped while being driven across the border. Robin Schiller of the Irish Indo joins Fran to outline what it's known so far about the investigation. Later, fashion historian Laura Fitzachary explains why the news of Jonathan Anderson deciding to show the Autumn-Winter collection of
Open AI: rogue hack or hype?
OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT said one of it's models had gone rogue during security testing and hacked another company, calling it an 'unprecedented cyber incident'. Professor Barry O'Sullivan of UCC Computer Science joins host Brian O'Donovan to explain the cyber hack but also whether or not, it's as big a deal as being protrayed. Later, Chief Economist with Deloitte, Kate English disc
Britain's new PM and changes to law around E scooters use
Andy Burnham became Britain's 7th prime minister in a decade. He gave his first speech outside Downing Street and RTÉ's Fiona Mitchell joins Evelyn and Brian to discuss the day's events and what Burnham's premiership might mean for Ireland. Evelyn and Brian also discuss the significant changes to the laws around E scooter use, including banning their use for under 18s and mandatory requiremen
Secrets of Croke Park on All Ireland Final day!
The government plans to roll out a new digital wallet which could contain a person's driving license and other important identity documents. Tech Editor with the Irish Independent, Adrian Weckler explains how the wallet might work. And with a massive weekend of sport ahead, Fran and Eamon chat to a man who works behind the scenes at Croke Park and hear what happens on match days! See omn
Chawke siblings jailed for unprovoked assault
On Tuesday, Bill and Alison Chawke were given a custodial sentence for assaulting two men in a hotel in 2023. Limerick Leader senior reporter, Sandra Quinn was in the circuit court as the sentence was handed down and joins Paul to explain the case and how the brother and sister reacted to the jail sentence. Later, as the Dáil rises for summer, Political correspondent Mícheál Lehane runs throu
What's behind Intel's investment in Ireland? and remembering Sam Neill
Intel announced a €5billion investment in it's facility in Kildare and is promising hundreds of new jobs. The turnaround in the company's fortunes is significant. RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan joins Evelyn to chat about the announcement and how the US government played a role in the renewed success of the chip maker. Later, Entertainment journalist, Brian Lloyd remembers Sam Neill, the Irish-NZ actor
Wildfires, heatwaves and bonfires!
As wildfires rage in Spain, several countries have issued heatwave warnings for the next few days. New research from Oxford University indicates that it may be time for governments to adopt specific measures to help people cope in extreme heat. Shiv Yucel joins Fran to discuss how heat is impacting people's daily lives. Later, RTÉ's Conor McCauley outlines the background to the Moygashel bonf
Inside the Dublin District Court where some people are representing themselves
It's just over a week since solicitors walked out and refused to handle legal aid cases in a row over a new payment scheme. Reporter Dyane Connor joins Paul from the district court in Dublin and shares stories from today's sittings where in some cases, people are representing themselves or being sent back to jail as they have no legal representation. Later, reporter Tania Reut discusses
What happened to Kelly Marie Lynch?
Twenty three year old Kelly Marie Lynch was found dead near Horseshow Bridge in Monaghan on St Patrick's Day 2024. While an initial post mortem report concluded that Kelly had died by drowning, subsequent reviews by other pathologists disagreed with this conclusion. The Lynch family are seeking answers regarding what really happened their daughter that weekend. Documentary maker, Alan Bradley
US celebrates July 4th and Taylor Swift's wedding
The 250th anniversary of American Independence is celebrated this weekend and millions of people are taking part in events around the country. But first, global superstar Taylor Swift is marrying NFL Star Travis Kelce in a 'intimate' ceremony in Madison Square Garden! US Correspondent Jackie Fox joins host Eamon Horan to discuss the celebrations. Later, broadcaster Cormac Ó hEadhra chats abou
Inside Dublin Castle for the opening ceremony of the EU Presidency
As Ireland's takes over the Presidency of the EU, Paul Cunningham and Juilette Gash go inside Dublin Castle to see what's happening at the opening ceremony. RTÉ's Europe Editor, Tony Connelly and Irish Times Europe correspondent Jack Power discuss the speeches and what hosting the Presidency means. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Phasing out excise cuts and increasing retirement age
Cuts in excise on diesel and petrol are due to expire at the end of July, however the Government will decide over the next twenty hours what the timeline will be to gradually phase out the reductions. Political Correspondant Michéal Lehane joins host Adam Maguire to discuss the decision facing Ministers. Later, Deirdre Malone, Employment Law Head at EY Law Ireland explains the changes to the
30 years since the murder of Veronica Guerin
It was this day 30 years ago that saw one of the most shocking killings in the history of the Irish state - the murder of crime journalist Veronica Guerin.Fran is joined by the Irish Independent's Paul Williams to mark the anniversary.Paul discusses the day itself, its aftermath and the legacy that lives through to today in how the state tackles gangland crime. He also discusses his own experience
Will drug decriminalisation actually happen?
The Joint Committee on Drugs Use has recommended the decriminalisation of possession of all drugs for personal use - Fran and Paul discuss exactly what is in the report and whether it will even come to pass.Later, Lisbon-based journalist Alison Roberts joins the pod to outline the experience from Portugal - which became the first country to adopt the measure in 2001.See omnystudio.com/listener for
What is Andy Burnham like?
As Keir Starmer announces his resignation as UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham looks set to be the man to take over for him but what will his premiership look like?Fran is joined by one man who co-wrote a book with Burnham - the Liverpool Echo's Political Editor Liam Thorp.Later, Aengus Cox explains how new customs charges could make online shopping a lot more expensive.See omnystudio.com/listener f
Burnham wins, Peter Thiel's Irish conference and one week of the World Cup
Prime Time's Jack McCarron joins Fran and Eamon to discuss whether a Peter Thiel backed conference could land in Ireland.Fran and Eamon also discuss why Andy Burnham's emphatic win in Makerfield could crown him Prime Minister.Plus there's the biggest storylines from week one of the World Cup and a chat on the strangest places the lads have broadcast from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy inf
Will Andy Burnham make it in Makerfield?
An election on Thursday in the UK could ultimately determine who leads the country. Andy Burnham is running in the Makerfield bye-election with his eyes set on a subsequent British Labour Party leadership battle. James Lyons, former director of strategic communications at 10 Downing Street under Keir Starmer, tells Fran and Paul why the stakes could not be higher.They also discuss if they would mo
Social media ban for under 16s in the UK and new search for missing women
Children under age 16 will soon be banned from social media in the UK under proposals announced by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer today.It comes as Tánaiste Simon Harris said Ireland should follow suit with the UK – but added that he hopes “this is an issue that Europe can arrive at a consensus on”.Work and Technology Correspondent Brian O'Donovan joins Fran to discuss why there are so many v
The Ireland Israel match that won't be played in Dublin
The Republic of Ireland's upcoming match against Israel will no longer be played in Dublin, a decision that has sparked debate far beyond football.Fran McNulty and Evelyn O'Rourke are joined by Irish Times Sports Correspondent Gavin Cooney to discuss one of the most talked-about stories in Irish sport.They also take in the opening days of the World Cup, the spectacle of UFC heading to the White Ho
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
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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
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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
