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
What's happening at the AI Summit?
Big Tech, Big Business and lots of politicians are attending the International AI Summit at the RDS. Fran and Paul are joined by Bloomberg's Tom MacKenzie to discuss AI in Europe. Later, Liz Carolan of The Briefing.ie and Charlie Taylor of the Business Post chat about the ups and downs of AI, dress codes and bad merch! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How Robert Pether got out of Iraq
After five and a half years of illegal detention in Iraq, Robert Pether landed in Dublin airport on Monday morning. He was greeted by family and friends and spoke of his time in a Baghdad prison and subsequent struggle to survive before he was allowed leave the country. His lawyer, Irish man Peter Griffin, took up his case, pro-bono in 2021 having heard about Robert's case in his son's school
Execution by firing squad and live streamed
The decision by the US Defence Department to live stream the execution of a man convicted of murdering thirteen unarmed soldiers at a military post in Texas in 2009 has sparked global headlines. The Pentagon announced earlier this week it would execute Nidal Hasan in December in the first military execution for more than 60 years. On this episode of Behind The Story we talk to death row lawyer Cli
IVF costs and concern over 'add-on' fertility treatments
IVF services have expanded dramatically over the last few decades. Infertility treatments are widely promoted but concerns are mounting over how effective and/or safe some of these 'add-ons' are. RTÉ Investigates Deputy Editor Aoife Hegarty joins Paul to discuss 'Fertility Uncovered' documentary that includes stories of couples trying to have a baby and also looks at public funding for IVF.&n
BONUS - Budget special - will there be any more money in your pocket?
Ministers Harris and Chambers unveiled Budget 27 in the Dáil this afternoon. Income tax changes, welfare increases, carbon tax paused, just some of the headline announcements but will there be any more money in your pocket when inflation is taken into account? Chief Economist with Deloitte Ireland, Kate English joins Fran and Paul on a whistlestop tour of the key points of the budget. &n
New charges on parcels and Andrew takes legal action
From next month, another new charge will come into effect on goods bought outside the EU. The €2 'union handling fee' will be implemented on Nov 1st, this is in addition to the €3 customs charge that had applied since July. Consumer Affairs correspondent Aengus Cox joins Fiona Mitchell to explain the new fees and how customers may not be aware of the new charges. Later, Chief Royal Correspond
Proteinmaxxing: just how much protein do you really need?
Protein water? protein cereal or how about protein infused vodka? Protein products are everywhere but earlier this week the Bank of America issued a warning to the food industry that the protein craze could have peaked. Dietician Sarah Keogh and RTE business desk reporter Adam Maguire join Fran to discuss the products, proteinmaxxing, who's making money and how much protein does a person real
Strikes on the horizon? and foul play at Man City!
Thousands of public sector workers began a work to rule in protest at the government's reluctance to talk pay! Teachers, nurses and other sectors are threatening further strike action in the coming weeks. Work and Technology correspondent Brian O'Donovan joins Paul to explain what's going on. Later, hacking, leaking and dishonesty at the heart of one of the Premier League's biggest clubs. Foo
Garvaghy Road stand-off and online house bidding
The stand-off between protestors and the Orange Order continues on the Garvaghy Road in Portadown. Sinn Fein and the DUP clash over the proposed parade with the row threatening to collapse the power sharing executive at Stormont. Host Karen Creed is joined by Prof Deirdre Heenan to analyse the situaton. Later, Political Editor with the Examiner, Elaine Loughlin discusses the online bidding pr
Politics on the pitch - Ireland v Israel
The Republic of Ireland are due to play Israel on Sunday in the Nations League tournament in Hungary but pressure continues to mount on the players and the FAI to pull out of the fixture. Fran and Eamon discuss the increasingly tense situation as more protests are planned this weekend against the games. Later, UCD Lecturer in Politics Graham Finlay discuss the speeches made at the Unite
The financial shock of cancer
A cancer diagnosis can cost far more than many patients expect. Cancer survivor Aoife Murphy and Irish Cancer Society CEO Nikki Gallagher join Paul Cunningham to reveal how falling incomes and mounting medical and travel expenses can leave families facing a financial crisis alongside treatment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New research on energy drinks and a large fine for Google!
New research by Safefood shows that 12% of 15-24 years old consume an energy drink once a day. Support is also growing for age restrictions on the sugar and caffeine rich drinks. Dietician Sarah Keogh joins Maggie Doyle to discuss the findings and explains why caffeine is linked to sport performance. Later, Work and Technology correspondent Brian O'Donovan outlines why tech giant Google has b
Award winning actor Chris Addison on dark comedy and politics today
Emmy award winning actor, producer and comedian Chris Addison joins Paul and Evelyn to discuss his new comedy drama, Tall Tales and Murder. Chris, who is also known for playing 'Ollie Reeder' in the cult TV show, The Thick of it, chats political satire in a Trump dominated world, Nigel Farage and why audiences like a bit of dark comedy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informatio
Irish acts quit Ed Sheeran tour over 'Free Palestine' row
On Monday, US rapper Macklemore was removed from Ed Sheeran's support acts following comments he made in early September in support of Palestine. Irish artists, Aaron Rowe and Beoga quit the tour in support of Macklemore on Tuesday. Arts and Media correspondent Evelyn O'Rourke joins Paul to explain how this is the biggest controversy facing singer-songwriter ED Sheeran. Later, Suzanne Lynch o
All hail Lowry, whiskey tariffs no more!
Golf diplomacy came to the fore this weekend, when President Trump announced he would drop tariffs on Irish whiskey as he presented the Irish Open trophy to Shane Lowry. The dropping of the tariff came as a welcome surprise to the sector. Agriculture and Consumer Affairs correspondent Aengus Cox joins Maggie Doyle to discuss the tariff and what's expected dominate the agenda at the Ploughing Champ
Award winning author Colum McCann on 9/11 and Trump's America
'A damp white loaf' that's how Colum McCann describes US President Donald Trump who arrives in Ireland this weekend. Colum joins Fran to discuss the anniversay of 9/11 and how America has changed since 2001. Colum, who lives in New York with his family shares his thoughts on Mayor Zohran Mamdani, JD Vance and why he remains positive when he thinks about the future of American politics. See om
Hell hath no fury - the row at the heart of the GAA
The plan to integrate camogie and ladies football into the GAA appears to have derailed with the resignation of former President Dr Mary McAleese from the Steering Committee. Dr McAleese didn't hold back in her criticism of the leadership of the association. Jarlath Burns, President of the GAA rejected accusations of misogyny and said the organisation was committed to integration. Sinead O'Ca
Are higher prices here to stay?
Take-away chips, cans of tomatoes, petrol and Netflix - just some of the products that have increased in price and have hit people's pockets. Consumer journalist Caitríona Redmond joins Paul to explain why everything seems to be increasing in price in the supermarket and beyond. Later, Economics and Public Affairs editor David Murphy discusses how the budget might bring some relief for people
The Murder of Mr Moonlight - a new drama
A new drama series, The Murder of Mr Moonlight will be coming to screens next year. Commissioned by RTÉ, the cast includes Brendan Coyle as Bobby Ryan, aka Mr Moonlight who was murdered by Patrick Quirke in 2011. Arrested in 2013 and found guilty by a jury in 2019, the Quirke trial was one of Ireland's longest running court cases. The case prompted huge public interest and is now being made into a
Is Europe going to get tough with Russia?
Tough talk from EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hung over the informal meeting of EU Foreign Ministers in Wicklow. On Tuesday, Germany blamed Russia for a failed drone attack on Leipzig airport in August. Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee said it was clear Russia was trying to divide the EU while EU's top diplomat, Kaja Kallas labelled the Russia attack as 'state-sponsored te
What do we know about the new state-backed investment scheme?
Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris gave some details today on the new state-backed personal investment account which aims to make investing more accessible to the wider public. Financial planner and podcaster Eoin McGee joins Laura Fletcher to discuss what's known about the scheme and why it differs from previous schemes like SSIAs. And while some details are known, Eoin reveals what h
Lake 'America' - Canada goes 'Elbows Up'!
At the stroke of a pen, Lake Ontario became Lake 'America' according to US President Donald Trump. This move was in retaliation for Canada announcing it would impose tariffs on the United States following the collapse of trade talks between the two countries. Justin Ling, columnist with the Toronto Sar joins Eamon Horan to talk lakes, trade and the ever-changing relationship between the US and Can
Remembering Dolly
Fran is joined by Grammy award winning musician Rhiannon Giddens and by Tennessee native and Communications specialist Amy Seigenthaler to reflect on the extraordinary career of music legend Dolly Parton who passed away on Tuesday night. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New rules on repairs and 'Economic Fury'!
New EU rules come into force today to encourage people to repair rather than replace broken appliances. Work and Technology correspondent, Brian O'Donovan joins host Karen Creed to explain how the new rules work and the types of devices that are covered under the new system. Later, as the US threatens Iran with more sanctions, DCU Associate Professor Michael Breen discusses the so called 'Eco
'Reverse Megxit' - Harry and Meghan's return to the UK
Harry and Meghan's surprise announcement that they are moving back to the UK in the coming weeks caught most people by surprise [including the Palace]. Aengus Cox is joined by historian Prof Kate Williams to unravel the complex family relationships that this relocation is going to create. How will William and Kate respond to the move? Later, brand expert with marketing company Core, Ruth Glee
Synthetic drugs, vapes and a closer look at the Healy-Rae row
New psychoactive substances are being discovered in vape products sold in Ireland. The HSE says 'agile' legislation is needed to deal with this trend. Prof Matthew Sadlier joins Juilette Gash to discuss the concerns around HHC and synthetic drugs or so called 'spice'. Later, documentary maker Jerry Kennelly discusses his new TV doc on the Healy-Raes and how one interview in particular got qui
The fatal M9 crash and social media 'likes'.
Five teenagers dead, four people from the same family in a serious condition in hospital. The teens were driving a stolen BMW on the wrongside of the motorway when they hit the other car. There have been several other similar incidents over the past few months of teens driving dangerously and posting on social media. Presenter Karen Creed is joined by Robin Schiller of the Irish Independent to get
Who killed Mayo GAA fan Joe Deacy?
How did a 21-year-old London Irish man who loved his ancestral home of Mayo come to meet a violent death in the place he adored ? Mystery still surrounds how Joe Deacy ended up on the driveway of a rural house in the early hours, with serious injuries nine years ago. Barry Lenihan speaks to Fran and explains the complex and tragic story of what happened to Joe and how the family are desperate for
Trump's Great 'Catering Truck' Escape!
President Trump was secretly moved off Air Force One and put on another plane owing to a credible threat from Iran on July 8th. But how did the plan come together? Fran is joined by former US Secret Service agent, Bobby McDonald who reveals the thinking behind some of these decisions. Later, journalist and entrepreneur Mark Little, who travelled on Air Force One when working as RTÉ's Washingt
Farming in hot weather and Nigel Farage v Count Binface
The continuing dry spells and increasing temperatures are proving a challenging environment for farmers. Host Aengus Cox speaks to Tom Curran of Teagasc to hear how farming may have to adapt to warmer summers in the future. Later, Lucy Fisher, Whitehall editor with the Financial Times, discusses the forthcoming Clacton by election where Count Binface is mounting a charge against Nigel F
Meta glasses: cool tech or pervert specs? and what's happening with Hamas?
As some pubs and venues in the UK move to ban Meta glasses, Fran is joined by tech reporter, Kelly Earley to chat about the growing demand for smart specs, the use of Kylie Jenner in Meta's branding and why concerns loom large over features like secret recording. Later, Dr Julie Norman, Middle East Fellow with Chatham House speaks to Fran about Hamas and how Northern Ireland's decommissioning
A hot July and oil companies make billions in profit
New figures from Met Éireann show July was one of the hottest, driest and sunniest months on record. But will Irish society have to adjust to cope with the changing climate? And what does it mean for food production? Also, some of the world's largest oil companies announced huge profits despite the US-Iran war. Oisin Coghlan, policy advisor to the Irish Environmental Network joins Fran and Juilett
Are listed buildings holding up development?
Moore St, GPO, James Weir building, RTÉ campus: just some of the many listed buildings that are part of Ireland's heritage, but are restrictions on their use and climate obligations holding up future development of these buildings? UCD Assistant Professor of Architecture Orla Hegarty joins Fran for a chat about why buildings are protected and what can be done with some of the ones lying idle. 
FIFA row, Infantino under pressure and rebuilding Gaza
As more football associations express opposition to Gianni Infantino's proposal to sell off part of the FIFA World Cup, Infantino himself is coming under pressure. Fran and Eamon are joined by Sky's Rob Harris who broke the story that a senior FIFA advisor resigned today over the plans. Rob shares his insights into the pressure coming on the FIFA President now. Later, Jim Clarken of Oxfam dis
The sudden death of Oscar-winning musician Glen Hansard
Singer-songwriter Glen Hansard died in a motorcycle crash today. His sudden death has shocked fans and the music world at home and abroad. Music journalist, John Meagher of the Irish Independent joins Tommy Meskill to reflect on his legacy. Later, Tommy speaks to reporter Kate Varley who is in Bordeaux about the wildfires and the battle to contain them. See omnystudio.com/listener for pr
Mayo magic and the psychologist behind the team!
Mayo banished decades of losses and a rumoured curse to lift the Sam Maguire trophy and become All Ireland Football Champions after a wait of seventy five years. Host Brian O'Donovan speaks to reporter Damian Lawlor who was pitchside for the historic win. Later, sports psychologist to the Mayo team, Dr Rachel Sheehan talks to Brian about the win and how she worked with the players and manager
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
