Ireland are all set to open their 6 Nations campaign with arguably their toughest assignment of the tournament away to France. Kieran was joined by Alan Quinlan, Newstalk’s Own Former Ireland and Munster Player and the current Munster coach who indeed has his own experience of French rugby having coached Racing 92... 

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat about umami flavours...

Next Tuesday marks Safer Internet Day – and as we have been discussing it all week – we are joined today by the person assigned with doing the job here. Niamh Hodnett, Ireland’s Online Safety Commissioner joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

Tonight Ireland visit France in their opening 6 Nations clash. Kieran was joined by Vincent Guérend, the French Ambassador to Ireland here in studio, Ryle Nugent, the rugby commentator and Aisling O’Reilly of Off The Ball who are both in Marseille..

There have been suggestions that Minister Roderic O’Gorman might be open to social welfare style payments to support parents who decide to be stay at home parents. Should we welcome this, and should we offer parents' support if they decide to stay at home?  Kieran was joined by Louise Bayliss, spokesperson of SPARK (Single Parents Acting for the Rights of Kids) to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Ian Power, CEO of SpunOut and Laura Donnelly, News Editor and Anchor with Bauer Media Group

As it is election year in the US, every Thursday here on the Hard Shoulder we are going to get the latest from the campaign trail. Kieran was joined by Jeff Kuhner, Host of The Kuhner Report on WRKO AM680 Radio in Boston... 

'Government must act and implement legislation around pornographic material. They must limit access to it. Children should not be able to easily access such dangerous material.'   Those are the words of online petition that went live before Christmas looking to increase protections for Children against pornography. That petition is now closing on its target of 5000 signatures.  Richard Hogan, Family Psychologist and Columnist with The Irish Examiner joined Kieran to discuss...

Irish Farmers will gather across the country this evening in solidarity with their EU counterparts.  The Irish Farmer’s Association has agreed to hold the rallies in protest against regulations of the industry. Kieran was joined by Hannah Quinn Mulligan, Limerick Farmer and Journalist and Louise Crowley, Secretary Limerick IFA and Beef Farmer...

A pilot programme for 'intelligent cars' is being launched today.  It uses 'Connected Vehicle Technology' to improve road safety by enabling cars to 'talk' to each other, and the traffic systems around them. Minister of State for Road Safety Jack Chambers joined Kieran to discuss this and also his recent announcement in which he came out as gay...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Jack Power, Journalist with the Irish Times and Shane Hannon , Presenter from Off The Ball...  

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this new year. This week Simon and Kieran put some diefferent pestos to the test...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Paul Williams, Crime Journalist with the Irish Independent to discuss morale in An Garda Síochána...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to look at a trip to Edinburgh...

This year marks 20 years since Facebook was founded. Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent joined Kieran to discuss...

The deal between the DUP and the UK Government to get power sharing back was published this afternoon. The 80 page document says there will be no checks when goods move within the UK internal market system. Henry McKean is in Belfast for us now, getting reaction from both sides of the divide. Henry good afternoon.

We had a conversation on The Hard Shoulder yesterday around schools needing to record all bullying incidents that occur in their schools.  Bullying is a common phenomenon in schools, and we would never want our kids to be bullied, however for some parents their kids might be the bully. Why does this occur and what can you do to address this issue as a parent. Kieran was joined by Stella O’Malley Psychotherapist and Author and George O’Leary, Head Of Operations and Co-Founder of Yung Medical Aesthetics...

The Six Nations kicks off this Friday but Ireland could be set for a championship decider in round 1 as they take on the French in Marseille. Andy Farrell has named his team – with Jack Crowley taking the ten jersey vacated by Jonny Sexton while there is a start for Leinster’s Joe McCarthy in the second row while Gary Ringrose has been ruled out with Robbie Henshaw and Bundee Aki named at centre. Munster’s Calvin Nash is named on the wing with Mack Hansen missing the entire tournament. Kieran was joined by Gerry Thornley, Irish Times Rugby Correspondent and Fiona Hayes, Former Ireland International to discuss...

A new bill is up before the Dáil today which would see cannabis possession decriminalised for up to seven grams.  The Misuse of Drugs Bill 2022 is being brought forward by People for Profit and believes it is a stepping stone for a wider discussion on decriminalisation. Prof Bobby Smyth Consultant Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist and Gino Kenny, People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid West joined Kieran to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Daniel McConnell, Editor of the Business Post and Ellen Butler, Newstalk Reporter...

Simon Coveney, Minister for Enterprise Trade & Employment joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the return of Powersharing to Stormont and the possibility of failed asylum applicants being deported on dedicated flights chartered by State...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Dr Peter Boylan, Former Master of the National Maternity Hospital to discuss Sláintecare and it's slow progress...

Journalist and entrepreneur Mark Little joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of his favourite books...

This Thursday will see Ireland adopt the new deposit return scheme for bottles and cans. Consumers will be able to return the items to their local shops to claim their deposit back. Newstalk's Josh Crosbie asked the public if they will use the new scheme. Kieran was joined by Ciaran Foley is the Chief Executive of Re-Turn, the body operating Ireland’s Deposit Return Scheme...

Actress Jessica Biel is a self-proclaimed shower eater. You heard that correct, she loves to multitask by having a bit of grub while washing herself.  Is this normal behaviour and if you were her housemate would you be having a word with her?  Saoirse Hanley, Features Writer at Independent and Newstalk’s Own Simon Tierney joined Kieran to discuss...

Under new guidelines, Schools across the country will be obliged to record all incidents of bullying behaviour for the first time. This new centralised database will expose the extent of bullying in schools and will feed into an anonymised annual national report to allow a better approach for tackling the issue of bullying.Kieran was joined by Professor James O’Higgins Norman, UNESCO Chair in Bullying and Cyberbulling at the DCU Anti-Bullying Centre  and Sinéad, whose son was cyber bullied...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Elaine Loughlin, Political Reporter with the Irish Examiner and David Davin Power, Journalist and Columnist...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, Founder and Chair of the Irish Muslim Council...

The HSE has called on increased measures to protect against measles after a significant rise in cases in the UK and across Europe. One of these measures is to ensure that our children have up to date MMR vaccinations to combat the disease.  Kieran was joined by Dr Suzanne Crowe, consultant in paediatric intensive care at Crumlin Children’s Hospital...

RTÉ's Top Earners luist for 2022 has been released. Ryan Tubridy tops the list, followed by the likes of Joe Duffy and Claire Byrne. The Irish Independent has also reported today that 60 people a day are facing prosecution for not paying their TV licence. Henry McKean joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder with this report.Kieran was also joined by Larry Bass, CEO of ShinAwiL production company who says the government has failed to grasp the nettle of the licence fee and tackle the issues people not paying...

Boots have done a survey in the UK ranking the on most annoying sounds. Why do certain sounds affect us? How can they make us feel angry or relaxed?Kieran was joined by Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin to discuss...

Opposition to the traditional St Patrick’s Day visit to the White House over the US’s stance on the war in Gaza.  Last week we spoke to People Before Profit’s Paul Murphy who called on the government to boycott the visit while today SDLP Leader Colum Eastwood has said he will not attend the celebration. Daniel Mulhall, former Ambassador of Ireland to the United States and Bríd Smith, People Before Profit TD joined Kieran to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Fionnan Sheehan, Ireland Editor for the Irish Independent and Wendy Ann Grace, Broadcaster and Columnist...

Today is January 26th and marks Australia Day, which saw the arrival of 11 British ships in present-day Sydney on Jan. 26, 1788.  However today has seen Australians protested the anniversary with large crowds calling for Australia Day to be moved  Gary Gray, Australian Ambassador to Ireland joined Kieran to discuss...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat about cholesterol...

The BBC show The Traitors is the new reality show that has gotten everyone hooked. 22 strangers decide who they deem trustworthy, and their decisions take viewers on an adventure of twists and turns.  Kieran was joined by Olivia Fahy, Editor of Geek Ireland...

Off The Ball's Will O'Callaghan joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

On the front page of today’s Kilkenny People is the headline “New scourge of vape litter is taking over.” Over 90% of our litter is now smoking or vape related. We wanted to find out if this is the same for the rest of the country. Henry McKean hit the streets to find out...

Eurosong kicks off tonight where 6 Irish hopefuls will battle it off to represent the emerald isle on the big stage for Eurovision 2024. It’s no hidden fact that Ireland hasn’t performed that well in recent years with our golden era of wins in 90s a distant past. Should we reconsider how we select who represents us and how the songs are chosen? Billy Kelleher Fianna Fáil MEP and Mickey Joe Harte, Eurovision contestant in 2003 joined Kieran to discuss...

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has announced his shock decision to leave the club at the end of the season. Kieran was joined by Liverpool Legend Phil Thompson, Dáire Gorman, a young Liverpool fan, who people may have seen in viral video over Christmas visiting Liverpool and Martina Cox wife of Sean Cox...Image: Liverpool Football Club (Nikki Dyer)

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Larry Donnelly, Director of the Kennedy Summer School and Law Lecturer at the University of Galway and Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News at Mediahuis to discuss...

As it is election year in the US, every Thursday here on the Hard Shoulder we are going to get the latest from the campaign trail. Kieran was joined by Jeff Kuhner, Host of The Kuhner Report on WRKO AM680 Radio in Boston... 

A decriminalisation of drugs and a move towards a comprehensive health-led response.  That is just one of the key findings in the final report by the Citizens Assembly on Drug Use which has been launched today.  Paul Reid chaired the Citizens Assembly on Drugs and he joined Kieran on the show to discuss...

Ellen Coyne is writing today that if a restaurant or cafe is child free, it’s essentially saying it’s women free. Do mothers feel a burden when out with their kids and feel the responsibility for other’s enjoyments Kieran was joined by Aideen Finnegan, Podcast Producer for The Irish Times and Holly Dalton, Chef and director of Conbini Condiments... 

The Ireland’s women basketball team is set to go ahead with their game against Israel next month despite calls for a boycott from a number of the squad members due to the ongoing war with Gaza.  Kieran was joined by broadcaster and activist, Emer O'Neill and Basketball player, author and peace activist Rebecca O’Keefe...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by John Lee, Executive Editor Daily Mail Group Ireland and Mary McCarthy, Columnist with the Irish Independent...  

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this new year. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of granola to the test...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to look at a trip to Venice...

We’ve teamed up with Laya Healthcare to explore wellbeing in the workplace. Today, Kieran was joined by Dr. Brian Pennie, Neuroscientist and Resilience Specialist. Brian has had a tough journey to the position he is in today, having struggled with heroin addiction. The Laya Healthcare Workplace Wellbeing Index, available at Layahealthcare.ie/wellbeingindex. Keep your finger on the pulse.’ Image: Brian Pennie

This is The Soapbox. Today, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Nicola Tallant, Investigations editor with the Sunday World to discuss cocaine usage in Ireland and its impact on the industry worldwide...

40 Years ago today, January 24, 1984, the Apple Macintosh was introduced to the world. Four decades later, it continues to maintain a dedicated community of enthusiasts and users.Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent joined Kieran to discuss...

According to a new survey, a quarter of Teenagers from 14-16 in North Dublin drank alcohol last year.  The study by the North Dublin Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, also claims that attitudes to drink have changed with more young girls engaging with drinking than boys. Newstalk's Henry McKean met with people in Dublin and asked them about their drinking habits growing up.Kieran was then joined by Paula Leonard, CEO of Alcohol Forum Ireland to discuss...

There have been mixed reactions about the Oscar nominations. Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig missed out on major nominations, while Ryan Gosling earned a nod for his supporting role as Ken.  Kieran was joined by Alexandra Ryan, Founder and CEO of Goss.ie and Chris Wasser, Arts journalist and Sunday independent film critic to discuss...

 Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has confirmed that Libmeldy – the world’s most expensive drug has been approved for use in Ireland. The drug is used to treat Metachromatic leukodystrophy - or MLD, a rare and life-threatening disease that affects the metabolic system in children. Les Martin’s eldest son, Cathal, died from the MLD three years ago at the age of six, his younger son Ciaran also suffers from MLD but has benefitted from the drug. Les joined Kieran in studio to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Laura Donnelly, News Editor and Anchor with Bauer Media Group and David Hall, CEO of iCare Housing and CEO of Lifeline Serivces...Image: RTÉ

This is The Soapbox. Today, Dr. Jennifer Cassidy, Lecturer in Diplomatic Studies at Oxford University joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the role of social media during conflicts...

Caroline Morahan, Irish actress and presenter joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of her favourite books...

New measures are being introduced to ensure that cash payments are accepted at supermarkets and pharmacies. This comes with the Access to Cash laws which will aim to keep physical money in the economy as well as availability of ATMs in Irish communities. Kieran was joined by Seamus Boland CEO of Rural Link and Paul Dolan, who runs The Barn gastropub in Glanmire, Cork and Sinead Ryan, presenter of The Home Show on Newstalk...

Despite a nurse and garda with combined salaries of €89,000, new research by the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. Has found they are still €60k short to be able to buy a three-bed semi detached home in the Greater Dublin Area Karl Deeter is CEO of OnlineApplication.ie and Financial Analyst and Susanne Rogers, Research And Policy Analyst Social Justice Ireland joined Kieran to discuss...

Writing on X, Content Creator Holly Carpenter says: 'I will never understand why so many lads go around Dublin just casually spitting everywhere? In broad daylight without an ounce of shame. Are you alright It makes me feel ill & I literally never see women doing this'Is spitting in public places becoming more common? And although it's not a crime should it be treated the same way dropping litter on the street is? Kieran was joined by Dr. Orla Cahill Microbiologist and Lecturer in allergen management and Social Media content creator, Holly Carpenter...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Ellen Butler, Newstalk Reporter and Fergus Finlay, Columnist for the Irish Examiner to discuss...

Today in the Irish Times and on Moncrieff Fianna Fail TD Niamh Smyth has called for the traditional Irish Pub to get Unesco recognition, to help them survive. Henry McKean went on a pub crawl and visited a traditional Irish pub which is over 400 years old. 2000 Irish pubs have closed since 1995...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Orla O’Connor, Director of the National Women’s Council of Ireland joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the upcoming referendums on both woman's place in the home and the definition of the family...

As toddlers and young children get more curious about their surroundings, this often leads them to putting various items, ranging from sweets and toys to even more hazardous objects like coins or batteries, into their mouths.  Kieran was joined by Dr Suzanne Crowe, consultant in paediatric intensive care at Crumlin Children’s Hospital...

If you have tuned into the news since the turn of the year one issue has dominated the airwaves and that is immigration. One common trend amongst these stories are the same narratives such as Ireland is full and single unvetted men coming into our country. We want to dedicate some time to challenging these talking points and dispel some myths around them.  Ciaran O’Connor, misinformation analyst at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue joined Kieran to discuss... 

Government needs to take action on the spiralling cost of doing business in Ireland. That’s the call from Ibec in a letter to government who have asked government to suspend further increases to the minimum wage and other government scheme while the issue is addressed. Kieran was joined by Danny McCoy, CEO of Ibec and Owen Reidy, General Secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) 

The news broke yesterday that murder suspect Ian Bailey has died. Bailey was a suspect in the 1996 murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier and maintained his innocence in that case until he died. He passed away in his home town of Bantry yesterday after suffering a heart attack.  An Irish cold case investigation has been underway recently into the 1996 West Cork murder and a French court found Bailey guilty of the murder and sentenced him to twenty five years in prison in absentia in 2019.  Jean Pierre Gazeau is the uncle of Sophie Toscan Du Plantier and he joined Kieran on the Hard Shoulder this evening...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Michael Kelly, Journalist and Former Editor of the Irish Catholic and Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sportswriter with the Irish Daily Star...  

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists..

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat all things Protein and Plant Based Protein for a Flexitarian Lifestyle...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

A poll released today by the Irish Times suggested that Republic of Ireland voters would be against the idea of joining the commonwealth in hopes of creating a united Ireland. But is this something worth considering? - is it a small price to pay for Irish unity. Kieran was joined by Gerard Craughwell, Independent Senator and Ronan McGreevy Irish Times journalist and historian to discuss...  

Madonna is being sued by two fans after she turned up two hours late to one of her shows. Being fashionably late is a common trait by many, but are Irish people fonder of being late than most? Kieran was joined by Saoirse Hanley, features writer for The Sunday Independent and the Sunday World, Aideen Finnegan, podcast producer for The Irish Times and Patti Shields, Chairperson of Democrats Abroad to discuss...

Simon Harris, Minister for Further and Higher Education joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the Government's new policy strategy on student accommodation and an Irish Times poll regarding Ireland rejoinging the Commonwealth...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Gerard Howlin, Public Affairs Consultant and Irish Times Columnist and Sean O’Regan, Newstalk Reporter...

As it is election year in the US, every Thursday here on the Hard Shoulder we are going to get the latest from the campaign trail. Kieran was joined by Jeff Kuhner, Host of The Kuhner Report on WRKO AM680 Radio in Boston... 

Justice Minister Helen McEntee joined Kieran in studio to discuss protests regarding the housing of asylum seekers, Gardaí presence in Dublin City and changes to CAB...

Getting your children to do their homework can be an everyday struggle for many parents. For many children they’ll pout and complain so figuring out how to make homework fun can be a tricky task.  Kieran was joined by Siobhan O’Neill-White from the parenting website, Mams.ie and TJ Hegarty, Founder of the online maths school, Breakthrough Maths to discuss...

A €10 million plan to increase policing in Dublin city centre, after a number of violent attacks, has not been renewed. It was brought in to make the Dublin streets feel safer. Is Dublin safer and are business thriving as a result?  Kieran was joined by Will Monaghan, Owner of One society on Gardiner St and Michael O’Sullivan, the proprietor of a "convenient shop” on Talbot Street...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent and Craig Hughes, Political Correspondent with the Irish Daily Mail...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this new year. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of nappies to the test...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to look at a trip to Copenhagen...

This is The Soapbox. Today, RTÉ presenter and activist, Emer O'Neill joined Kieran to discuss

Newstalk's Technology Correspondent, Jess Kelly joine Kieran to discuss what happens to your digital accounts after you die...

People Before Profit have called on the Taoiseach and Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald to boycott the annual St Patrick’s Day visit to the White House to meet Joe Biden due to the US President’s continued support of Israel. TD Paul Murphy believes that this action would “have an impact symbolically in the US and around the world,”...

A record number of people took public transport last year. There were 308 million passenger journeys taken in 2023 across trains, buses and trams. Henry McKean went to a train station and a bus stop and asked passengers, are you happy with the service and how it could be improved?Kieran was also joined by CEO of the National Transport Authority to discuss...

Today, Families for Reform of CAMHS went before the the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health to express their concerns that children across Ireland are being failed and that families were not receiving adequate support at a time when they need it most. Kieran was joined by Hannah Ní Ghiolla Mhairtín, spokesperson for Families for Reform of CAHMS, Grainne Morrison and Emer Deasy who are both parents of children who have had to engage with the service...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Elaine Loughlin, Political Reporter with the Irish Examiner and Niamh Maher, Commercial Creative Director with TheJournal.ie...

Travel journalist, Nicola Brady joined Kieran to give him tips for travelling to Tahiti...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Broadcaster and author, Barbara Scully joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to tell us to not to worry, because the best years are still ahead of you, even in your 50s and 60s

Hugh Wallace, Director with Douglas-Wallace Architects joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of his favourite books...

A motion has passed unanimously by Mayo County Council today, to cease cooperation with the Department of Integration over the housing of Asylum seekers and refugees in the County. Protests have also continued outside Racket Hall in Roscrea today, where 17 international protection applicants have been housed since yesterday. Minister Roderic O’Gorman met with some local representatives today to discuss the concerns of locals. Kieran was joined by Cllr Michael Kilcoyne, Independent Councillor Mayo CC and Deputy Jackie Cahill, Fianna Fáil TD for Tipperary to discuss...

Some of you may have seen the programme on RTÉ The Last Priests in Ireland.There is also a programme airing which is titled The Last Nuns in Ireland.We sent our reporter, Josh Crosbie to meet with some of those who have chosen this way of life.

SuperValu Park – that is the potential new name for the home of Cork GAA Páirc Uí Caoimh. The county board is meeting tonight to ratify the potential deal with reports suggesting the deal could fetch the cash strapped board between €250,000 and €300,000 annually. Kieran was joined by Larry Tompkins Former Cork Footballer, Kenneth Collins Sinn Féin councillor and John Hayes, All Ireland winner with the Cork footballers in 2010... 

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Ellen Butler, Newstalk Reporter and Mary McCarthy, Columnist with the Irish Independent to wade through today's top stories...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Fergus Finlay, former CEO of Barnardos joined Kieran to Post Office Scandal in the UK and how this is not the first time or perhaps the last time we will see stories like this...

People caught with a small amount of drugs should not end up in the criminal justice system – that was the view of Junior Minister for Drugs Hildegarde Naughton speaking in an interview with the Irish Independent. Kieran was joined by Dr Austin O Carroll Founder Safetynet and Clinical Director Granby GP service for Homeless and Michael O’Sullivan, Former Garda Assistant Commissioner & Former Head of the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau...

With so many types of vitamins on the market it can be difficult, and even overwhelming, to decide which ones are best to buy for your kids. Dr Suzanne Crowe, a consultant in paediatric intensive care at Crumlin Children’s Hospital joined Kieran to discuss which vitamins are essential for your little ones...

Sarah Irvine was diagnosed with a progressive form of multiple sclerosis back in 2019. The condition causes the body’s immune system to attack cells in the brain, optic nerve and spinal cord which can have a significant impact on an person’s mobility. Sarah Irvine is now hoping to travel to London to get StemCell treatment which is hoped will slow or even stop the effects of her MS...Image: Sarah's MS Hope Trust

Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan has suggested that free parking for public sector workers could be scrapped to help cut down on congestion in the city centre. Is this a reasonable thing to do or is it unfair to the public sector workers? Kieran was joined by Jen Hogan, Columnist with the Irish Times and Keith Gavin, Chair of Irish Parking Association to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by David Davin-Power, Journalist and commentator and Jack Power, News Reporter with the Irish Times...

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Comedian Steve Cummins and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists..

The annual Ireland Gateway to Europe trip to the US has announced it will return in 2024.  Now in its 12th year, it comprises an annual mission of 50 business leaders and Irish media to the US.  Kieran was joined by Adie McGennis, Executive Chairman of Sigmar Recruitment and one of the founders of Ireland Gateway to Europe and Robert MacGiolla Phádraig, another founder of Ireland Gateway to Europe...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of her top tips for Christmas dinner...

Roscrea’s only operating hotel, Racket Hall, will see its 40 rooms repurposed to accommodate 160 asylum seekers. This decision has sparked protests among locals  Eoghan O’Mara Walsh, Chief Executive of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation joined Kieran to discuss...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

St Vincent's University Hospital has apologised in court to the family of a 76-year-old Freda Fox from Castlerea, Co. Roscommon, who died after losing 17 litres of blood during a complex operation carried out by two trainee surgeons.  Vanessa, Freda’s daughter, joins me now and thank you for taking the time to speak to us today 

Israel has denied allegations of genocide following South Africa’s case against them at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).   Shona Murray, European Correspondent for Euro News joined Kieran to discuss...

If you are a cyclist you will be pleased to hear that a new National Cycle Network plan has been launched this week. The Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan has promised that there will be 3,500km of cycle lanes  by 2040.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie has been looking into this and has met with people who are fans of the idea and those who live near cycleways.

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Liz Dunphy, Senior reporter Irish Examiner and Gráinne Ní Aodha, News Reporter with Press Association to discuss today's top stories...

As it is election year in the US, every Thursday here on the Hard Shoulder we are going to get the latest from the campaign trail. Next Tuesday sees the first major step on the road to the White House as the Iowa caucuses take place. Kieran was joined by Jeff Kuhner, Host of The Kuhner Report on WRKO AM680 Radio in Boston... 

Unions representing the public servants have rejected an offer of pay increases of 8.5 per cent over 2½ years, with lower paid workers offered 12 per cent. Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform joined Kieran to discuss...

As the war in Gaza continues, patients and medical staff suffer due to lack of workers, supplies and medication.  Nick Maynard is one of the few British doctors who has seen the issues firsthand as he travels back and forth between the UK to Gaza to help at their only functioning hospital. Kieran was joined by Professor Nick Maynard, leading consultant Upper GI surgeon based in Oxford and Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent, Euronews...

Thousands of students are taking part in this year's BT Young Scientist Exhibition.550 projects from 219 schools are being showcased in the exhibition hall at the RDS.Artificial intelligence, mental health and diversity are the common themes this year.Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent visited the exhibition today and she joined Kieran on the show to discuss...

Unions representing the public servants have rejected an offer of pay increases for of 8.5 per cent over 2½ years, with lower paid workers offered 12 per cent. This got us thinking, what would be fair pay for the public sector given the amount of money the government has to play with Kieran was joined by Edgar Morgenroth Professor of Economics at DCU and Mick Barry, Socialist TD for Cork North Central...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sportswriter with the Irish Daily Star and Sinead Ryan, Presenter of the Home Show on Newstalk to chat through today's top stories...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Brendan Ogle, social commentator, trade unionist and activist joined Kieran to look at the limits to 'balance' in public discourse in the internet age...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this new year. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of microwavable burgers to the test...

Christopher Nolan, director of Oppenheimer, has pleaded with people to make the return to DVDs and Blu-ray. The director has said it’s important to own the film on Blu-ray so that “no evil streaming service can come steal it from you.”Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent joined KIeran to discuss...

Dublin traffic has been named as the second slowest city centre in the world. According to a survey, last year on average a 10km journey through central Dublin took an average of 29 minutes and 30 seconds - a one minute increase from 2022’s average.  It’s clear that congestion issues can’t be solved overnight and a Minister for just Dublin isn’t feasible right now, so what can be done? Green Party Councillor Janet Horner and CEO of Dublin Town Richard Guiney joined Kieran to discuss...

Fourteen people, including two children, have been discovered in a refrigerated lorry at Rosslare Europort after a 999 call was made from inside the trailer to the UK.The discovery was made on Monday aboard a ferry from Belgium.They are all understood to be in good health and were medically assessed at the scene.Henry McKean met with truck drivers in Dublin Port who travel to Europe and The UK regularly...

Almost 3 in 5 of us have never attended a women's sports event – that's according to a new Red C research launched today by the Ladies Gaelic Football Association in conjunction with Lidl to mark the start of the Ladies Football National League. The survey also found that 46% of people said that men’s sport is generally better to watch. Kieran was joined by Nora Stapleton, Women in Sport Lead with Sport Ireland, she is also a former Grand Slam Winner with the Irish Rugby team and a former Donegal footballer and Aisling Maher, Dublin Camogie Captain to discuss...

Dublin traffic has been named as the second slowest city centre in the world. According to a survey, last year on average a 10km journey through central Dublin took an average of 29 minutes and 30 seconds - a one minute increase from 2022’s average.  Kieran was joined by Fianna Fail TD, John Lahart and Brian Caulfield, Professor of transportation at the School of Engineering at Trinity College Dublin to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Ciara Phelan, Senior Correspondent with the Irish Examiner and Michael Kelly, Journalist and Former Editor of the Irish Catholic to chat through today's top stories...

It’s Penneys, Hun! Penneys has invited the cameras in for the first time for a new six-part documentary. Inside Penneys will begin tonight on RTE 1 at 8.30pm. From just one shop in Dublin’s Mary Street, to more than 430 stores in 16 countries. Penneys has grown from humble beginnings to become an affordable trendsetter and global fashion giant. Henry McKean got a look behind the scenes in advance of the new TV show tonight...

This is The Soapbox. Today, Niall Breslin aka Bressie, singer and host of the hugely successful podcast 'Where is My Mind' joined Kieran to discuss the current state of mental health services in Ireland...

Terry Prone, author and Chairman of the Communications Clinic  joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of her favourite books...

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss hospital waiting lists, CAMHS, housing for hospital staff and the future of Micheál Martin as leader of Fianna Fáil...

Operation Transformation returned last week and episode 2 airs tomorrow. This will be the 17th season of the show that aims to promote a healthier lifestyle. Kathryn Thomas, Presenter of Operation Transformation joined Kieran on the show...

Today, legislation was brought to Cabinet to enact the Government decision taken before Christmas to reduce welfare payments for new arrivals from Ukraine. Ukrainians arriving in Ireland in the coming weeks will receive an expense allowance of €38.80 a week, which is down from the current jobseeker's rate of €232 per week. Kieran was joined by Tom McEnaney, Media consultant and founder of Effective Aid Ukraine, Michael Baskin, From the Ukrainian Crisis Centre in Ireland and Nadia Dobrianska, Ukrainian in Ireland...  

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Brianna Parkins, Columnist with The Irish Times and John Lee Executive, Editor Daily Mail Group Ireland to chat through today's top stories...

This is The Soapbox. Today, David Quinn, Columnist with the Irish independent joined Kieran to discuss public debate and how people are shutting down certain sides of the debate if it doesn’t suit a narrative...

The return to school after the Christmas holidays can result in many children catching the common cold, but what can appear to be a simple cold can become more serious.  Consultant Pediatrician, Dr. Niamh Lynch, joined Kieran to discuss what to do when a simple cold becomes more serious…  

Legendary German Footballer Franz Beckenbauer has passed away at the age of 78.  Nathan Murphy from Off the Ball joined Kieran to discuss...

There has been a record numbers of visas granted to young Irish people heading to Australia. Along with this, we’re seeing reports today of staff at the National Maternity Hospital  commuting 2½ hours to work due to Dublin living costs How can we address this and help people to live in our city and also encourage people to stay here in Ireland and lend their expertise and skills to our services rather than moving to the Austalia, Canada or the UK. Kieran was joined by Professor Shane Higgins, Master of the National Maternity Hospital and Aodhan O’Riordain, Labour TD for Dublin Bay North, as well as their Education and Justice spokesperson...

Ireland is in the midst of a cold snap at the moment with temperatures expected to drop as low as minus 5 degrees in some areas tonight. Met Éireann has issued a Status Yellow low temperature and ice warning for the entire country which will be in place from 9pm tonight until 10am tomorrow morning. Kieran was joined by Joanna Donnelly from Met Eireann and Shane O’Donoghue, Editor for CompleteCar.ie to discuss...  

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News at Mediahuis and Ian Power, CEO of SpunOut to chat through today's top stories...

Whether it’s down to financial needs, the thrill of adventure, or just seeking a better way of life, the Irish have been flocking abroad for generations.Record numbers of visas have been granted for young Irish people heading to Australia.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie was there himself and he’s been looking into this for us.

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and Saoirse Hanley, Features writer with Sunday Independent and Sunday World to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists..

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of her top tips for Christmas dinner...

Off The Ball's Mick McCarthy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

The young are caught in a grotesquely unfair trap, those are the words from Gerard Howlin in the Irish Times today. According to his piece, more needs to be asked of the older generation as with declining birthrates and an increasingly ageing population, there is a going to be a massive financial burden place on younger generations. Gerard Howlin, Public Affairs consultant and Irish Times columnist joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder today...

Room to Improve is back for another season this Sunday on RTÉ One.Kieran was joined in studio by Dermot Bannon and Claire Irwin to chat about what to expect from the new season...Image: RTÉ

The Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue speaking to the Irish Examiner has said restaurants and food outlets need to cut down on the amount of food they put on customers plates to reduce waste. He also wants to ban the doggy bag. Newstalk's Henry McKean joined Kieran with this report...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Niamh Maher, Commercial Creative Director with Journal Media and Laura Donnelly, News Editor and Anchor with Baure Media Group... 

Details are continuing to emerge on what the upcoming review in to Ireland’s handling of the Covid pandemic might look like. The Irish Times today reporting that the inquiry is likely to hear from frontline health workers and families who lost loved ones. It also says the inquiry is expected to last around 18 months.Kieran was joined by Kingston Mills, Professor of Experimental Immunology at Trinity College Dublin and Mervyn Taylor, CEO of Sage Advocacy, National advocacy service for older people to discuss...

Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Dr. Harriet Treacy, founder of Beyond BMI, who believes that obesity management has been hijacked by the beach body industry rather than having a medical approach to the disease 

Court records that were used to prosecute Jeffery Epstein's girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell have been released  The documents detail the personal connections Epstain had to Prince Andrew, Bill Clinton and Stephen Hawking. Kieran was joined from New York by legal reporter with Bloomberg News Ava Benny Morrison...

Details are continuing to emerge on what the upcoming review in to Ireland’s handling of the Covid pandemic might look like. The Irish Times today reporting that the inquiry is likely to hear from frontline health workers and families who lost loved ones. It also says the inquiry is expected to last around 18 months. Kieran was joined by Professor Sam McConkey Infectious Disease Specialist at the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland and Michael McNamara - Independent TD for Clare and former chair of Oireachtas Covid Committee to discuss...

It appears 007 is about to come with a trigger warning.  At a new season of classic movies at the British Film Insititute in London, all Bond films have the following warning - “Please note that many of these films contain language, images or other content that reflect views prevalent in its time, but will cause offence today.” John Fardy, Presenter of Screentime on Newstalk

According to the National Car Testing Service, nearly half of all 1.5 million cars failed their NCT last year.  Why is this the case and does the NCT system need some revision or changes?  Kieran was joined by Conor Faughnan, Transport Commentator and Michael Collins Independent TD

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Fionnán Sheehan Ireland Editor at the Irish Independent and Shane Hannon, Presenter from Off The Ball to chat through today's top stories...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this new year. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of non-alcoholic beers to the test...

That was the moment that 16 year old sensation Luke Littler reached the World Championship Darts final last night. Can he go one step further at the Alexandra Palace in London and beat World Number 1 Luke Humphreys to become the World Champion? Laura Turner, Darts player and Sky commentator joined Kieran to discuss...

Today the CSO released their year review of 2023 to paint a picture of Ireland and how it did overall with regards to personal finances, inflation, mortgage rates, housing, cost of living, gender-based violence...you name it Kieran was joined by Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist of the Institute of International and European Affairs and John Fitzgerald, Adjunct Professor in Economics at Trinty College Dublin...

It’s a new year so what better time to get your finances in order. Kieran was joined by Eoin McGee, Financial Planner and the presenter of new RTÉ TV show The Complaints Bureau... 

In 2018 the HSE recommended that hospitals should have a parking cap of 10 euros per day  2024 is upon us. And the introduction of the cap is set to be delayed even further  CEO of the Irish Cancer Society Averil Power and John Wall, Cancer survivor and advocate joined Kieran to discuss...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the day's news. Today, Kieran was joined by Aideen Finnegan, Podcast Producer with the Irish Times and Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent...

Micheál Martin has said it is not feasible to ban children from using social media, but said the government could be stronger in warning of its hazards and spoke about social ‘contracts’ schools could adopt when dealing with the use of their students and social media Should social media be banned to certain age groups or what are the best ways to tackle the dangers that come with it to aid our children Kieran was joined by Stella O Malley, Psychotherapist and Author of 'What your teen is trying to tell you'...

Alice Leahy, from the Alice Leahy Trust joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of her favourite books...

Investigations are continuing into a fire at a disused pub in Ringsend in Dublin that had been earmarked for use for homeless accommodation. Speculation in the area had suggested the site could be used for refugee accommodation while local councillors have criticised the lack of communication from the Dublin Region Homeless Executive. Kieran was joined by Teresa Buckowska, formerly of the Immigration Council of Ireland and migrants rights expert...

Micheál Martin has said it is not feasible to ban children from using social media, but said the government could be stronger in warning of its hazards and spoke about social ‘contracts’ schools could adopt when dealing with the use of their students and social media Are the government doing enough? Are we at a crisis point when to comes to our children and their access and usage of social media? Kieran was joined by Jen Hogan, Journalist and Columnist with The Irish Times and Philip Arneill Head of Education at CyberSafeKids...  

Israel has confirmed it is pulling some of its forces out of Gaza but it does appear there is no end in sight for the war with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu suggesting the war will last “many months.” Kieran was joined by General Sir Richard Barrons who previously served as one of the six ‘Chiefs of Staff’ leading the UK Armed Forces and is now the co chairman of Universal Defence and Security Solutions...

This is the Afternoon Update – The Hard Shoulder’s daily catch up on the news. Today, Kieran was joined by Daniel McConnell, Editor of the Business Post and Sean O’Regan, Newstalk reporter.... 

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis and Comedian Jim Elliott to look back on the year of 2023...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of her top tips for Christmas dinner...

As we wind up for the Christmas period, it’s good to spend the festive season reflecting on the year and looking ahead to 2024. To offer a Christmas message at this is a spiritual time of year, Fr Brian D’Arcy, Author and Broadcaster joined Kieran on the show today...

Yesterday on the show we were talking about the big pop culture moments of 2023 and you could not omit Taylor Swift from that list. From her Era’s tour, to her box office hit movie and being named Time Person of the Year, it’s fair to say 2023 was Taylor’s year. But not everyone agreed. We got this text in “Taylor Swift-the rebirth of bubble gum, junior infants songwriting laced with mediocre melodies”. So...clearly not a fan That text got the attention of none other than Dave Browne, From Picturehouse, who joined Kieran today to speak in defence of poor Taylor...

We are just 3 days away from the big day but for many on the day they will be looking for their local Christmas Day Swim.  Bríd Graham Owner and Director of Splash Swim Schools Ireland and a swimming teacher joined Kieran on the show to discuss...

Now 2023 has been an impactful year for news between conflict, riots and politic ongoings.  However, we are going to put that to one side for now and take positive look back at some of the good news stories of the last year... Rachael Ryan From 98fm joined Kieran on the show to discuss..

Tom Doorley, Food and wine columnist with the Sunday Times is here to talk us through his own dinner plans and how other countries celebrate Christmas...

Emmet Oliver, The Hard Shoulder’s Business Correspondent joined Kieran on the show to take a look back at the year in business...

Golfer Padraig Harrington joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss how to get more kids involved in sport and what the future looks like for world golf...

Author, podcaster and playwright, Michael Harding joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder today for a catch up...

Miguel Delaney, Chief Football Writer for the Independent in the UK joined Kieran to discuss a court of justice ruling on the European Super League project...

There has been a wealth of wins, losses and plenty of gaffs along the way when it comes to the culture events this year.   We take a look back at some of the moments which really captured the news at the time.  Brian Lloyd Movies Editor with Entertainment.ie joined Kieran to discuss...

The Irish public have spoken about what animals and flowers should appear on the Irish passport, with the Irish Wolfhound and Shamrock topping their respective lists. But should we just be considering just animals and flowers, and if so, what symbols should be picked to best represent Ireland.  Saoirse Hanley, Features writer with the Irish Independent, Steve Cummins, Comedian and co-founder of ZoomParty.ie and Claire Ronan Broadcaster joined Kieran to discuss...

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss record overcrowding in hospitals in 2023, work underway on the new National Maternity Hospital on Vincent’s Campus, funding for adult hospices and Mary Lou McDonald's calls for Robbie Keane to resign as Maccabi Tel Aviv F.C. manager...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this festive season. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of Christmas Puddings to the test...

Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald has hit out at former Irish international footballer Robbie Keane over managing Israeli Club Maccabi Tel Aviv FC claiming that sports and genocide don’t mix. Are these statements fair and should Robbie Keane be criticized for working for an Israel team? Cllr David McManus Fine Gael Councilor for Rathfarnham-Templeogue and Bríd Smith, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South Central joined Kieran to discuss...

Three quarters of workers will respond to work emails over Christmas, according to a new study. Henry McKean joined Kieran with this report...

Reduced speed limits are moving a step closer as the Cabinet is expected to approve the publication of a new bill to legislate for default limits. The Road Safety Strategy 2021-2030 sets the target of reducing road deaths and serious injuries by 50% by 2030 - and one of those ways is by reducing speed limits across the road network. But will it work?  Do speed limits make people go slower? Brendan Kelly is Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin and he joined Kieran to discuss...

One of the biggest stories from this year was the visit the US President Joe Biden made to Ireland in April of this year Biden checked a big item off his bucket list when he visited Ireland and his ancestral home, making it a deeply personal and wistful journey. Kieran was joined by Mark Duffy, a Councillor for the Ballina Municipal District (Cathaoirleach during visit) and was a big part in the set up of the visit to Ballina and also Larry Donnelly, Director of the Kennedy Summer School and Law Lecturer at the University of Galway who covered the visit extensively at the time...

For many we are heading into holiday time but for lots of shops and restaurants it will be the busiest time of the year. But, should shops should stay closed on Stephen’s Day?Kieran was joined by Conor Pope Consumer Affairs Correspondent with The Irish Times and Deirdre Walsh, Owner of Molly Fulton’s Bar and Restaurant in Sligo...

John Kelleher joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss some of the notable deaths that occurred in 2023...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for travelling around Ireland in 2024...

 The UN’s security council is set to vote this evening on a call for a ceasefire in Gaza.  The vote has been delayed from yesterday and already follows a failed vote after a veto from the US.  Patrick Bury, Senior Security Lecturer at the University of Bath, Former Nato Analyst and Army Officer joined Kieran to discuss

Board games are always a fixture during the Christmas period, but they are also important for building certain skills for children not just for causing arguments over Monopoly.  Founder of Cog Toys and Games Ruth Roberts joined Kieran to chat about what value a couple games can bring to your family and some out of the box boardgames options....  

Thousands of energy customers must wait until the new year before the first electricity credit is applied to their bills. Three energy credits totaling €450, or €150 each, were announced in Budget 2024 to help households facing high electricity bills due to inflation. However, there is anger among householders as this credit has shown up on their accounts but not been applied to their bills. Sinead Ryan, consumer expert and presenter of The Home Show joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...

Discussions continue here in Ireland around laws that would allow for assisted dying in this country. Dame Esther Rantzen, announced today that she has signed up to Dignitas, so that if her cancer treatment doesn’t go to plan, she will have the option to do that. Kieran was joined by her daughter Rebecca Wilcox on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...

Now, it is well and truly festive season and one thing you may not be ready for is a large number of guests. TV Chef and Culinary Lecturer Edward Hayden joined Kieran to give some advice on how best to welcome people into your home....

It was a trial that gripped the nation earlier this year which culminated on the 17th of April with Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch being found not guilty by Special Criminal Court of the murder of David Byrne at a boxing event weigh in at the Regency Hotel in 2016. Paul Williams, Crime Journalist with The Irish Independent joined Kieran to take a look back...

Have you most of your Christmas shopping done or are you like the rest of us and are leaving it till last minute? What about buying no presents at all, how would that go down in your house on Christmas morning?Well that’s exactly what the Fashion Editor of the Daily Mail has decided to do this year.It got us thinking are people cutting back on buying physical items as presents? Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie has been looking into this.

Gardaí yesterday confirmed that they are investigating a ‘criminal damage incident’ after a fire broke out at the former Ross Lake House in Rosscahill in County Galway.The hotel had been selected to house 70 asylum seekers and protesters had gathered at the building on Saturday afternoon.Broadcaster and author, Emer O'Neill joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss

Philip Ryan, Political Editor, Irish Independent and John Lee, Executive Editor, Daily Mail Group Ireland joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to look back on the political year of 2023...

Gardaí yesterday confirmed that they are investigating a ‘criminal damage incident’ after a fire broke out at the former Ross Lake House in Rosscahill in County Galway.The hotel had been selected to house 70 asylum seekers and protesters had gathered at the building on Saturday afternoon.Kieran was joined by JP McMahon, Galway chef and restaurateur and Marian Harkin, Independent TD for Sligo-Leitrim to discuss... 

Over the past few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy has been taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge.To wrap up the challenge, Kieran was joined by Éamonn Ó Domhnaill, Co-Founder and Director of Education of Gaelteanga and Sibéal Davitt, Kieran’s múinteoir…

Eileen Gleeson has been appointed the permanent manager of the Republic of Ireland’s Women football team.  Gleeson who served as number two under Vera Pauw had been in the role as interim but after a string of great results has secured the position.  Off the Ball’s Kathleen McNamee joined Kieran to discuss...

All this week we will be looking back at the year’s biggest stories.  We’ll start back in September when a group of 200 protesters gathered outside the Dáil with a mock gallows and shouting abuse at politicians and Leinster House Staff..In November we saw a riot break out on O’Connell Street after a tragic stabbing outside Gaelscoil Choláiste Mhuire.  Kieran was joined by Independent TD for Kerry, Michael Healy Rae and Lord Mayor of Dublin, Daithi De Róiste to discuss...

Dublin City Council has granted planning permission for the €100 million redevelopment of St Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.The capital will lose one of its landmark buildings after the Council has granted planning permission to DTDL Ltd controlled by a fund operated by stockbroker and wealth manager Davy. Henry McKean met people around Dublin and asked them what they thought about it...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of the top Viral Food Trends from 2023...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

Dublin Airport has sought approval to increase its annual passenger capacity from 32 million to 40 million.For more on this Kieran was joined by Eoghan Corry, Owner and Editor of TravelExtra and Padraig O’Ceidigh, Former Senator and former owner of Aer Arann...

Karl Spain is bringing his 'Well, What Did You Expect?' to Vicar Street next April. Comedian Karl Spain joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

Conor McGregor has been in the news a lot lately. His comments about the Dublin Riots, talk of running for president, building high rise flats in residential areas he grew up in, and now something more positive, secretly supporting a local soup run. Henry McKean joined Kieran to discuss...

Newstalk’s new Christmas Amárach Poll is here and has revealed that:  Over half of Irish adults will have their main Christmas dinner in their own home this year Two thirds usually have their Christmas dinner mid-to-late afternoon. Turkey is the main roast typically served at Christmas dinner. Kieran was joined by Newstalk's Simon Tierney and Sinead Ryan, Consumer Columnist with the Irish Independent and the Presenter of The Home Show to discuss...  

Former President of Ireland and Chair of the Elders, Mary Robinson joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to give her verdict on the COP28 deal...

Some of you may already be digging into Christmas flavoured crisps. Companies like Walkers bring out new flavours for a variety of reasons, and some of its Christmas choices were ‘pigs in blanket’ flavour, festive turkey and sweet and spiced Christmas pudding. So how do companies pick their crisp flavours?  And what tends to work and what doesn’t? Tom Keogh, founder and managing director of Keogh’s Crisps joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder... 

This morning Archbishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland Eamon Martin was on Newstalk Breakfast to discuss his comments on Safe Access Zones for women seeking abortions People Before Profit TD Dublin South Central Brid Smith has condemned his comments saying they were deeply offensive to women and pregnant people who were seeking to vindicate their right to bodily autonomy. Kieran was joined by People Before Profit TD Dublin South Central Brid Smith..

A draft law on the use of facial recognition technology - known as FRT - will be published by the Government today.The proposed legislation would allow Gardaí use the technology when searching CCTV footage, which the Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said is vital when it comes to investigating serious crime.Kieran was joined by Barry Ward, Fine Gael Senator and Lorna Bogue, Leader of An Rabharta Glas to discuss..

Threads, the social media platform that Meta hopes will rival Twitter has finally arrived in Ireland today. Kieran was joined by Leigh Mc Gowran, Journalist with Silcon Republic... 

Ahead of a major EU leaders summit, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said today that the EU has lost credibility due to the Unions fragmented response to the Israeli-Palestine conflict.  So how is the reputation of the EU holding up given the major challenges it faces?  Kieran was joined by John O’Brennan Professor of European Politics at NUI Maynooth and Jean Monnet Chair of European Integration and former Irish Ambassador to the UK, Bobby McDonagh...  

Businessman JP McManus is to donate €1 million to each GAA County Board in Ireland to support grassroots investment across all Gaelic games.For more on this, Kieran was joined by Darran O'Sullivan, former Kerry Football captain and Labour Party Senator Annie Hoey...

Anti-social behaviour and shoplifting was the topic of conversation at the Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment with many retailers decrying the “explosion of shoplifting” being experienced at the moment. Kieran was joined by Tony Gallagher, Risk, security and event manager with Ashtree risk group, Former Garda inspector and Sheila Clarke Runs Clarke’s XL shop in Ballina, Co Mayo   

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this festive season. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of mince pies to the test...

Anti-social behaviour and shoplifting was the topic of conversation at the Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment with many retailers decrying the “explosion of shoplifting” being experienced at the moment. Kieran was joined by Michael O’Sullivan, the proprietor of a "convenient shop” on Talbot Street and Tara Buckley, Director General of the Retail Grocery Dairy and Allied Trades Association  to discuss...

The FAI was infront of the Oireachtas  Committee on Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht this afternoon in regards to CEO’s Johnathan Hill’s pay. Kieran was joined by Newstalk's Aidan Delaney and Christopher O’Sullivan, Fianna Fáil TD for the Cork South West constituency and member of Committee on Media, Tourism, Arts, Culture, Sport and the Gaeltacht.  

After days of negotiations, member states at the UN climate summit in Dubai have agreed a deal calling on all nations to transition away from using fossil fuels. Other pledges and commitments were also made over the two weeks of the climate change talks.  Kieran was joined by Chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council, Marie Donnelly and CEO of Fuels for Ireland, Kevin McPartlan...

Ireland needs to introduce an honours system, according to Green Party TD Patrick Costello who was speaking on Newstalk Breakfast this morning. Gerard Craughwell Independent Senator and Ronan McGreevy Irish Times Journalist, Historian and Author of the book “Great Hatred: The Assassination of Field Marshal Sir Henry Wilson MP” joined Kieran to discuss...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for travelling in 2024...

Dublin Airport is experiencing it’s busiest time of the year as passengers arrive and depart for Christmas travel. However, residents living near the Airport are still highlighting what they say is “unbearable noise” from the planes.A protest has taken place this evening and our reporter, Josh Crosbie, met with those in attendance.

Kieran was joined by Fine Gael Senator Regina Doherty and Socialist TD for Cork North Central, and member of the Oireachtas Enterprise, Trade and Employment Committee, Mick Barry for Common Ground.Due to the Dáil ending, and other things, this will be the last one of the year. Kieran, Regina and Mick took a look back some of the debates that we found Common Ground on this year...

The Government today has agreed to reduce welfare benefit rates and to put limits on State accommodation for new arrivals from Ukraine to 90 days.  The current rate of €220 per week will be reduced to €38.80 for the 3 months that Ukrainian people are in state accommodation.Kieran was joined by Deirdre Garvey, Secretary General for Irish Red Cross and Cathal Crowe, Fianna Fáil TD for Clare... 

Details have emerged of a Russian Submarine that was chased from Cork Harbour by the British Navy after it positioned itself outside Cork Harbour 6 months ago. The submarine was just outside the 12-mile limit, so it didn’t break any international laws, but such events around the Irish coast are becoming more common.Kieran was joined by Independent Trinity Senator and Security Analyst, Tom Clonan 

The UAE has been front and centre, as it has been promising to try to strike a deal at the COP28, with at-risk nations and Western powers rejecting a proposal that stopped short of phasing out fossil fuels. The 13-day summit has been debating a first-ever global exit from oil, gas and coal. So will a deal be done? Caroline O’Doherty, Irish Independent Environment Correspondent and Chief Executive of Friends of the Earth Ireland, Oisin Coghlan joined Kieran to discuss...

The apparent clampdown on “dodgy boxes” in continuing in Ireland – yesterday a Dublin man who sold 81 Android TV boxes was given an 18-month suspended sentence at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court. So is the day of the dodgy box coming to an end? Kieran was joined by Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent and Rob Hartnett CEO of Sport for Business...

This week, Henry McKean has had 3 punctures and the AA have helped 3 times. One front right and 2 back left. Why? Because Henry doesn't know how to change a tyre.Henry McKean joined Kieran to bring this report...

Following the recent riots in Dublin, it has been reported that the full pedestrianisation of civic spaces is being reconsidered. This would possibly include allowing taxis into pedestrian areas, with the theory that they might act as some form of ‘passive surveillance’  Kieran was joined by Hazel Chu, Dublin City Councillor for the Green Party and Keith Gavin, Irish Parking Association to discuss...

Over the next few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy will be taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge and each Monday he will be sharing his journey alongside some Irish speakers.  Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, Cork All Ireland Winning Captain joined Kieran to continue the challenge...

Following the recent riots in Dublin, it has been reported that the full pedestrianisation of civic spaces is being reconsidered. This would possibly include allowing taxis into pedestrian areas, with the theory that they might act as some form of ‘passive surveillance’ Kieran was joined by Columnist with the Sunday Independent Conor Skehan, as well as Catherine Stocker, Dublin City Councillor for the Social Democrats...

Comedian and Love Island narrator Iain Sterling joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

COP28 continued today and Theresa O’Donoghue, environmental representative, climate activist and scientist joined Kieran to discuss...

The newly formed Taxis for Ireland Coalition, comprising six organizations from tourism, hospitality, and enterprise, has urged the Government to tackle the taxi supply shortage.Adrian Cummins, CEO of the Restaurants Association joined Kieran to discuss...

The most googled terms of 2023 in Ireland are now available. The results include ‘What is a barter account?’ and ‘what is botulism?’ Some of the top Googled people include Philip Schofield, Huw Edwards and even Ryan Tubridy! For more on this Kieran was joined by writer and broadcaster, Stephanie Preissner, radio presenter and humanist celebrant, Ruth Scott and comedian, Jim Elliot...

The funeral of Shane MacGowan has taken place in Nenagh, Co Tipperary.Fans from around the world travelled to pay their respects for the Pogues frontman.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie was there to capture the atmosphere.

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of her favourite 'Good Mood Foods'...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Anton Savage on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

COP28 continued today and Sadhbh O’Neill, senior climate adviser for Friends of the Earth Ireland joined Anton to discuss...

There are record levels of respiratory syncytial (sin-seet-ee-al) virus (RSV) being recorded across the country. RSV mainly affects babies and is putting children’s hospitals under huge pressure.  Almost 1,000 cases of RSV were recorded last week, and almost 370 patients, most of them children, were hospitalised.  Dr Máire Finn, GP at Ennis Centric Health joined Anton to discuss...

Coimisiún na Meán, Ireland’s new body for regulating broadcasters, on-demand services, and online media, and supporting media development, has opened a public consultation on its draft Online Safety Code for video-sharing platform services.Newstalk's Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly spoke to Niamh Hodnett, the Online Safety Commissioner about the new code today and she joined Anton Savage to discuss..

It’s the 8th of December and for many people of a certain vintage that can only mean one thing – it's Culchie Shopping Day! Rural Ireland’s annual pilgrimage to the big city for the Christmas shopping. Anton Savage was joined by Columnist with the Farming Independent and Author of ‘Matters of Great Indifference’, Jim O’Brien and Comedian Katherine Lynch...    

The shops are filling up as Christmas shopping lists are being ticked off.Southern reg plates will be seen crossing the border in search of some bargains, while others are browsing online.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been looking at how shopping habits have changed around Christmas:

Today saw former Prime Minister Boris Johnson appear before the Covid-19 inquiry for a second day Hard questioning brought out an emotion Johnson who insists “I do care and did care” about the pandemic and was not indifferent to it Kieran was joined by Adam Boulton, political commentator to discuss...

Turkey and ham will be on the table for most dinner tables across the country this Christmas Day but for many Cork households there is another staple on the plate every Christmas – spiced beef. And one man who is synonymous with this Cork dish is Tom Durcan from Durcan Meats in Cork's English Market, whose spiced beef has been recently named the best in Ireland. Tom joined Kieran in studio in Republic of Work in Cork...

Buyers in Cork need a combined €100,000-plus in salary in order to buy a new house. This goes up to over €120,000 if you go to Dublin. Is it harder to buy than ever, and why? Kieran was joined by Brian McCarthy, Socialist Party councillor for Cork City North West and former Chair of the Fiscal Advisory Council and Lecturer in Economics at UCC, Seamus Coffey...

We have all reverted to checking out Doctor Google in recent years, but have we become cyberchondriacs? Cyberchondria is defined as when searching the internet for medical information leads to extreme health anxiety. For more on this Kieran was joined by Cork GP, Dr. Doireann O’Leary...

Yesterday we saw division in the Dail as TDs debated our immigration policies. The Rural independent TDs brought forward a motion looking for tighter rules Leader of the Social Democrats, Holly Cairns said that “Vulnerable asylum seekers are going to be freezing on our streets this Winter, and misinformation like this does nothing but put a target on their backs.” Holly Cairns, TD for West Cork and Leader of the Social Democrats joined Kieran in Republic of Work in Cork...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from Republic of Work in Cork today.To discuss some of the issues affecting the area and look at how Cork is performing as a city, Kieran was joined by Cáit Caden Business Reporter with the Irish Examiner, Tadhg Hickey, Comedian and Joe O’Shea, Editor of Cork Beo 

Beginning February 1, we will see a 15 cent levy added to every aluminium can or plastic bottle sold in Ireland. Customers will have to return their empties to the  'reverse vending machines’ to get their deposit back.  Kieran was joined by Vincent Jennings, CEO of the Convenience Stores and Newsagents Association and Ossian Smyth, Minister for Circular Economy to discuss...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this festive season. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of houmous to the test...

A private members motion was up for debate this morning in the Dáil by Rural Independent TDs on immigration.  This will be the first time in the Dáil’s history that a debate on immigration concerns was held.  Kieran was joined by Michael Healy Rae, Independent TD for Kerry and Aodhan O’Riordan, TD and Labour Party’s Education spokesperson... 

Taylor Swift has been named Time Magazine Person of the Year 2023. She beat out tough competition for the accolade shaking off Barbie, King Charles and Vladimir Putin. She even out did the Trump prosecutors.  Newstalk’s Own Sean Reidy joined Kieran to discuss...

The government has today announced that four new special schools are to open to provide more places for students with special educational needs. The schools will be located in the South Kildare area, Enfield in Meath, Limerick City, and Gorey in Wexford. Minister of State for Special Education and Inclusion Josepha Madigan joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

With so much of the world revolving and spread out across social media, we’re taking a look back on the Year On TikTok 2023.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been checking who done has been growing their followers on the platform this year and what have been the most popular trends.

Beginning February 1, we will see a 15 cent levy added to every aluminium can or plastic bottle sold in Ireland. Customers will have to return their empties to the  'reverse vending machines’ to get their deposit back.  Kieran was joined Colin O’Byrne, Project manager at VOICE, Alan O’Reilly, from Carlow Weather and Seamus Boland, CEO of Irish Rural Link. 

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to Koh Samui and Chiang Mai...

Sinn Fein has tabled a motion of no confidence for the Minister of Justice Helen McEntee. Pressure has been mounting on the Justice Minister since the riots, with Mary Lou McDonald describing Minister McEntee’s position as no longer tenable.  Kieran was joined by Sean O’Regan, Newstalk Reporter and Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire Sinn Fein Spokesperson on Education & Skills.... 

Toll charges are set to increase from January 1st 2024.  The M50 toll charge is set to increase by 40 cent based on your type of vehicle where on national roads could see increases by 50 cent. Kieran was joined by Sean O'Neill Director of Communications with Transport Infrastructure Ireland and Michael Collins, Independent TD... 

Alex de Koning, spokesperson for British Environment group, Just Stop Oil will be speaking at a SciCom event tomorrow at the Aviva Stadium at a conference that focuses on the opportunities and challenges that lay ahead. Alex de Koning joined Kieran on The Hard Shoudler this afternoon...

The Government has today confirmed plans to hold referendums on constitutional references to family and care in March 2024. The proposed referendums will be held on International Women's Day on 8 March would broaden the definition of family beyond marriage in the constitution. Kieran was joined by Senator and Chair of the Green Party Pauline O’Reilly and David Quinn, the head of the Iona Institute. 

Winning the Grand National in 2018 with Tiger Roll in 2018 was one of the highlights of a glittering career for one of Ireland’s greatest ever jockeys. However Davy has now decided to swap the racetrack for the ballroom floor as the latest contestant announced in the new series of Dancing with the Stars. Davy Russell joined Kieran on the show this afternoon...

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has sought Cabinet approval for a proposed extradition deal between Ireland and the United Arab Emirates.  The move could see as Gardaí seek the extradition of members of the Kinahan organised crime group. Kieran was joined by Nicola Tallant, Investigations Editor with the Sunday World...  

COP28 continued today and Sadhbh O’Neill, senior climate adviser for Friends of the Earth Ireland joined Kieran to discuss...

The CSO results today showed us how we are travelling since 2016, and what did we learn That you can’t break a habit and we still love our cars.  63% of us, or over 1.2 million of us, jump in the car when we want to go somewhere. Why are we not looking for more sustainable options like walking, cycling or public transport? Kieran was joined by Fejlin Jose, Chairperson of the Dublin Commuter Coalition and Geraldine Herbert Motoring Journalist with the Irish independent...

In a statement this afternoon, a spokesperson for the Department of Integration has said that it can no longer provide accommodation to all international protection applicants, due to a severe shortage. They have said that tents and sleeping bags will be provided to people where required. Kieran was joined by Tom McEnaney, Media Consultant and Founder of Effective Aid Ukraine, who has helped over 1,000 refugees get into Ireland and Richard Boyd Barrett, People Before Profit TD for Dun Laoghaire to discuss...

Over the next few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy will be taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge and each Monday he will be sharing his journey alongside some Irish speakers.  Luke Fitzgerald, Former Leinster player and Irish International joined Kieran to continue the challenge...

In a statement this afternoon, a spokesperson for the Department of Integration has said that it can no longer provide accommodation to all international protection applicants, due to a severe shortage. They have said that tents and sleeping bags will be provided to people where required. Kieran was joined by Teresa Buczkowska is a migrant rights expert, and formerly of the Immigrant Council of Ireland and Enda O’Neill, Head of Office at the UNHCR Ireland …  

GAAGO will stream a total of 38 exclusive GAA championship games next year.GAAGO, initially provided live coverage for international audiences since 2014, but gained exclusive rights to cover championship matches last year. The jointly owned venture from RTÉ and the GAA came under criticism for being behind a paywall.Seán Kelly, former President of the GAA and Fine Gael MEP joined Kieran to discuss...

COP28 continued in the United Arab Emirates today. Sadhbh O’Neill, Senior climate advisor for Friends of the Earth joined Kieran to discuss what happened today.Kieran was also joined by Jennifer Whitmore, Social Democrats TD for Wicklow and spokesperson for Climate, Environment & Biodiversity and Kevin McPartland, CEO of Fuels for Ireland...

A recent study conducted by the Nevin Economics Research Institute and the UCD School of Business reveals that Ireland's most undesirable roles are often filled by women and younger workers, whereas men predominantly occupy the most top positions.Henry McKean joined Kieran with this report...

It’s 70 years since Hugh Hefner published the first edition of Playboy with none other than Marilyn Monroe on the cover.  Though, no one was able to buy the 1953 issue in Ireland and they couldn’t get the 1963 or 73 issues either.  But Ireland has a storied history with the magazine none the less, from IRA smugglers, to uproar in Tralee and even interviews with the Healeys Rae. Newstalk’s Sarah Madden reports. 

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists..

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through some of her favourite 'Good Mood Foods'...

Recently focus has been put into online content and how it played a role in the riots last week.  Misinformation is everywhere and in Ireland we are not immune, so what does misinformation look like and how does it take hold in our society? Razan Ibraheem, Jounalist specialising in content verification joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

Today, Ireland is taking its first steps in our space adventure!  EIRSAT-1 is Ireland’s first satellite, and it is being launched into orbit from 6pm at the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.  The head of the Team Professor Lorraine Hanlon, Professor of Astronomy at UCD joined Kieran from California Image: European Space Agency

King Charles was speaking today the second day of COP28. Our own Taoiseach Leo Varadkar will give his own speech tomorrow at the climate summit.  The Taoiseach will pledge that Ireland will spend 225 million from 2025 to tackle climate change which is the highest figure Ireland has given towards this issue. Sadhbh O’Neill, Senior climate advisor for Friends of the Earth joined Kieran to discuss what happened today...

Sinn Féin has confirmed it has tabled a motion of no confidence in Justice Minister Helen McEntee following the riots in Dublin last week. A vote will now be held in the Dáil next Tuesday. Kieran was joined by Pa Daly, Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with Special Responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail to discuss...

Ade Adepitan, former Paralympian with Team GB and TV presenter, joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss his new documentary 'The Big British Beef Battle'...

The Pogues frontman and songwriter Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65.Kieran was joined by Jonathan Cronin, from Of Cronin, Charles Hendy, from The Mary Wallopers, Liam Ó Maonlaoí, Musician and Mundy to discuss...

The Council of Europe has released a report which examines the way history is taught across seventeen European countries, including our own. The way subjects are taught in Ireland can often be a topic of debate so let's see how Ireland fared. Kieran was joined by Journalist and Historian, Ronan McGreevy and Aodhan Ó Riordain, Labour Party TD and Education Spokesperson...

The Pogues frontman and songwriter Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65.His death was announced by his wife Victoria Mary Clarke and by The Pogues this morning.Gerry Adams, Former President of Sinn Fein joined Kieran to discuss...

One Scottish Hotel has set its stall out for Christmas by announcing after 53 years of serving Mince Pies, it will stop. Glynhill Hotel & Spa, in Glasgow has decided to save on food waste by not including the Christmas desert which is no longer a favourite amongst its customers. Darina Allen Chef, Author and founder of Ballymaloe Cookery School joined Kieran to discuss and told him the best way to go about making them... 

COP28 has finally gotten underway in Dubai and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has been in attendance today.  Throughout the climate conference we want to cut through the noise and tell you exactly what has been discussed. Sadhbh O’Neill, senior climate advisor to Friends of the Earth Ireland joined Kieran to discuss... 

Today the Council of Europe has released a report which examines the way history is taught across seventeen European countries, including our own. The way subjects are taught in Ireland can often be a topic of debate so let's see how Ireland fared.  Kieran was joined by Carl O’Brien, Education Editor with The Irish Times to discuss...

The Pogues frontman and songwriter Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65.His music was wide reaching and touched some many people both here in Ireland and outside.  Pat Carty, Writer for Hot Press Magazine and Broadcaster joined Kieran to discuss...

Billy Hann the CEO of Dublin Bus was before the Oireachtas Transport committee today.  One of suggestions he made is for Dublin needs to reduce it’s car congestion and go on a car diet. This will hopefully improve the ability of our public transport to perform.  Do we need a car diet in the capital?  Kieran was joined by Michael Pidgeon Green Party Councillor and Shane O’Donoghue Editor for CompleteCar.ie 

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options this festive season. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of tubs of Christmas chocolate to the test...

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is set to end today after a six day pause in the conflict with mediators now working hard to extend it. How does the situation look and what does a lift in the ceasefire look like in the coming days? Patrick Bury, Senior Security Lecturer at the University of Bath, Former NATO Analyst and Army Officer joined Kieran Cuddihy on the show...

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has been in front of the Oireachtas Justice Committee, saying that Garda will get stronger pepper spray, and the Public Order Unit will be provided with tasers.This is following the riots in Dublin last week. Kieran was joined by James Lawless, Chair of the Oireachtas Justice Committee, and Fianna Fáil TD for Kildare North and Tara McManus, who is the Deputy General Secretary of the Garda Representative Association…

Alcohol-free months such as Sober October, No-Drink November and Dry January make being sober seem like more of a fun challenge and allow people to see the upsides of giving up the drink for a few weeks. It also has put people onto the growing movement of ‘sober curious’ people.  Kieran was joined by Ciaran Bradley, Digital Editor of Newstalk to discuss... 

The riots in Dublin are still dominating the news.One element that has been improving since the riots is footfall in the city, there are indications that shoppers are starting to return.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, met with those who are visiting Ireland to hear their views on the violence.

Garda Commissioner appeared before the Oireachtas Justice Committee today to be questioned on the violence and chaos in Dublin city centre last week. Barry Whyte joined Kieran on the show to discuss what he heard at today's hearing...

Sinn Féin have been having a go at the Government by using a particular photo to make their point. Gabija Gataveckaitė, Political Reporter with Irish Independent joined Kieran to discuss...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to the Okanagan valley...

The Dáil has been hearing reaction today to the Dublin Riots last Thursday, and what this means for Minister Helen McEntee.Kieran was joined by Senator Lisa Chambers, Fianna Fáil spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and the EU, Louise O’Reilly, TD and Sinn Féin spokesperson on Workers' Rights, Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Neasa Hourigan, the Green Party’s Finance & Health Spokesperson, and TD for Dublin Central...

The annual Ireland Gateway To Europe trip to the US has announced it will return in 2024. Now in its 12th year, it comprises of an annual mission of 50 business leaders and Irish media to the US. Kieran was joined by Adie McGennis, Executive Chairman of Sigmar Recruitment and one of the founders of Ireland Gateway to Europe  

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Are we over-reliant on technology?'...

This evening the Dáil continued to hear statements in relation to the riots and violence in Dublin City Centre on Thursday last.Kieran was joined by Alan Farrell, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Fingal and Labour Party Senator, Marie Sherlock...

With winter days growing shorter and nights darker, road safety should become even more important. Cyclists and e-scooterists who neglect night lights and high-visibility gear put themselves at a greater risk. Should laws be put in place to mandate reflective gear for cyclists on public roads at night? Kieran was joined by Joe O’Shea, Columnist for the Irish Mirror and Una Morrison, Chairperson for the Dublin Cycling Campaign…

Cuán – that is the most perfect town in the world to live in. Never heard of it? Well it is the anonymised Irish town that Daniel Miller, professor of anthropology from University College London, relocated to for 16 months.  Daniel Miller joined Kieran to discuss.We have a hunch what town ‘Cuán’ might be and have assembled a panel of Cuán-siders to tell us what they love about their town. Skerries locals Henry McKean Newstalk’s Own and Margot Fox, Mental Health and Wellbeing Coach joined Kieran on the show too...

Sinn Féin and Social Democrat representatives have both said they have no confidence in Helen McEntee, Minister of Justice. Kieran was joined by Newstalk's Seán O’Regan and Fionnán Sheahan is the Ireland Editor for the Irish Independent to discuss...

Labelling the mob from Dublin riots last Thursday as a ‘far-right’ faction only serves to give validation”. Those are the thoughts of Paul Williams Crime Journalist with The Irish Independent... 

Over the next few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy will be taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge and each Monday he will be sharing his journey alongside some Irish speakers.  Victor Bayda, Language Planning Officer for South Kerry Gaeltacht joined Kieran to continue the challenge...

The fallout is ongoing following the riots that hit Dublin’s streets last Thursday. We’ve had calls for the Minister of Justice to step down, we’ve had fierce criticism of the Garda Commissioner as well as threats and rumours of more riots. But one of the common denominators in much of the commentary has been talk about a ‘far right’ element to the riots. Joe Brolly, barrister and co-host of the Free State Podcast joined Kieran to discuss...

COP28 kicks off in the UAE later this week. Is COP a worthwhile exercise or a waste of time? Environmental activist and Guardian Columnist George Monbiot joined Kieran Cuddihy to discuss...

Talks on a new public sector agreement get under way this evening. The scale of any possible deal will hopefully become a bit clearer by later this evening. Kieran was joined by John King, SIPTU’s Deputy General Secretary with responsibility for the Public Service and Kieran Mulvey, Former Director General of the Workplace Relations Commission...

There is a GAA player’s charter from a club doing the rounds on social media the weekend with quite a strict set of rules for its players.  Some of these rules include five months of no holidays, no drinking and no trips to Australia, US or Canada. This begs the question, are clubs becoming too strict and will rules like this harm the passion of players? David Brady Former Mayo Footballer and Valerie Mulcahy, former Cork footballer join me now... 

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists..

The capital city is attempting to get back to normal today after the horrific stabbing of three children and one woman yesterday which were followed by hours of rioting and looting. Garda Commissioner Drew Harris described last night’s riots as “disgraceful” and said a  'hooligan faction driven by far right ideology' contributed to the unrest.Kieran was joined in studio by Ray McAdam, Fine Gael Councillor for North Inner City Dublin and Neale Richmond, Minister of State with responsibility for Employment Affairs & Retail Businesses, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown, Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town, Ciaran Cuffe, Green Party MEP for Dublin, Pat Leahy, Former Assistant Garda Commissioner, Hazel Chu, Green Dublin City Councillor, Lorraine O’Connor of the Muslim Sisters of Eire and Fianna Fáil spokesperson for Justice and TD for Dublin Bay South, Jim O’Callaghan....

It’s one of life’s age old questions – how to make the perfect steak.Well one physicist thinks he has cracked the code – and it involves a microwave. Physicist George Vekinis who has published books about the science involved in cooking and Gary O’Hanlon Chef consultant to the O’Sullivan’s Group in Paris joined Kieran to discuss...

Three young children have been injured in a ‘serious incident’ in Dublin city centre. The suspected stabbing happened shortly after 1:30 pm this afternoon Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East.One young girl has suffered critical injuries, while two other children are being treated for less serious injuries. A woman is also being treated for serious injuries.Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Newstalk Chief Reporter Barry Whyte, Independent councillor for the North Inner City Nial Ring and Siobhán Kearney, who was on the scene in the aftermath of the incident...

Three young children have been injured in a ‘serious incident’ in Dublin city centre. The suspected stabbing happened shortly after 1:30 pm this afternoon Gaelscoil Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square East.One young girl has suffered critical injuries, while two other children are being treated for less serious injuries. A woman is also being treated for serious injuries.Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Janice Boylan, Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor for the North Inner City and Marie Sherlock, Labour Senator to discuss...

CEO of An Post, David McRedmond is this years recipient of EY’s Special Recognition Award, and he joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards in Powerscourt. Kieran was joined by Frank O’Keefe, EY Ireland’s Managing Partner and Bobby Kerr, Presenter of Down To Business on Newstalk...

The government is proposing legislation to change the Triple Lock.  These purposed changes could mean that the Government can react quicker to deploying Defence Forces aboard, but does this challenge our neutrality? Kieran was joined by People Before Profit TD for Dublin South West, Paul Murphy and Fianna Fail Senator and Leader of the Seanad Lisa Chamber to discuss..

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of children's yoghurts to the test...

Just 3,000 homes across Ireland have been found liable for the new Vacant Homes Tax.  That is despite over 50,000 homes being initially identified as potentially liable by Revenue as of 20th November.  Labour Leader Ivana Bacik and Eoin Ó Broin, Sinn Féin TD and Party Housing Spokesperson joined Kieran to discuss...

It is 60 years ago today that John F. Kennedy had died after being shot by Lee Harvey Oswald. The Kennedys have historically left an indelible mark on US politics, but what about now?  Is the Kennedy family still the force it once was? Larry Donnelly, Law lecturer in University of Galway and co-director of the Kennedy Summer School joined Kieran to discuss...

Today marks the publication of the Healthy Ireland Survey for 2023, which is the eighth annual survey by the Department of Health.The survey looks at general trends across multiple factors on the health of the Irish nation. It looks at issues such as general health, smoking, alcohol, GP visits, and mental health.The survey found a decline in people reporting good health and an increase in the use of e-cigarettes and antibiotics. Kieran was joined by Mary Butler, Minister of State in Department of Health for Mental Health and Older People and Fianna Fail TD for Waterford...

According to Israel’s Channel 12, Irish-Israeli girl Emily Hand is one of 50 hostages that will be released by Hamas in an exchange for 150 Palestinians held by Israel. It comes as a 4 day pause on the conflict is due to come into effect tomorrow. Kieran was joined by Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent at Euronews and Sean Bell, Retired former fighter pilot and current defence consultant and co-host of the Red Matrix podcast...

Irish-Palestinian man Ibrahim Alagha has spoken to Kieran a number of times on The Hard Shoulder while stuck in Gaza amongst the ongoing conflict.  Ibrahim and his family have since managed to leave Gaza and return home. Ibrahim Alagha joined Kieran Cuddihy in studio…

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Can society do more to combat violence against women?'...

Today, the Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying heard a powerful testimony from a man who has since died from Motor Neurone Disease. Gino Kenny, People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid West was there and he joined Kieran to discuss... 

Irish Times columnist Jen Hogan spoke to Josh Crosbie on Newstalk Breakfast about the importance of inclusion in children’s parties. Kieran was joined by comedian and co-founder of ZoomParty.ie Steve Cummins and Columnist with the Irish Independent, Mary McCarthy to discuss...

The European Parliament has backed new draft legislation aimed at enhancing consumer rights to opt for product repairs rather than replacements. Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly joined Kieran to discuss…

The Chief of Hamas said earlier today that a truce agreement with Israel was near. It happened as assaults on Gaza continued and rockets were still being fired into Israel. How likely is a significant ceasefire? Kieran was joined by Kim Sengupta, World Affairs Editor for The Independent in the UK…

The Republic of Ireland take on New Zealand in a friendly at the Aviva stadium on Tuesday evening.One name that is the focus of attention is manager Stephen Kenny. Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been meeting with fans to see how they feel about his performance as manager.

Over the next few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy will be taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge and each Monday he will be sharing his journey alongside some Irish speakers.  Comedia Julie Jay joined Kieran to continue the challenge...

I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here returned to our screens last night boasting a brand new line-up of celebrities.  The line-up includes, Britney Spears sister, This Morning presenter Josie Gibson and Nigel Farage.   Kieran was joined by Newstalk Producer, Sean Reidy and Founder of Goss.ie, Ali Ryan 

On Friday, Josef Puska was was sentenced to life in prison today by Mr Justice Tony Hunt. While sentencing Puska, Justice Hunt said that if he had the authority he would have considered a whole life sentence. Should Ireland introduce whole life sentencing?  Kieran was joined by Former Governor of Mountjoy Prison, John Lonergan and former Senator, Marie Louise O’Donnell to discuss...

It’s getting to that point of the year in which all the Christmas ads are out, we have the Late Late Toy show on the horizon and people are starting to feel festive.  However we are still in November, so it begs the question, is it too early for the Christmas season?  Newstalk's Own Simon Tierney and Niamh Maher Commercial Creative Director with Journal Media joined Kieran to discuss...

Embarking on a global adventure, English comedian and author Dom Joly brings his unique comedic and journalistic perspective to unravel the mysteries behind conspiracy theories.  From questioning the existence of Finland to exploring the minds of die-hard flat earth believers, Dom takes readers on an engaging journey throughout his book.  Kieran was joined by Dom Joly on The Hard Shoulder...

Lower paid workers are set to benefit most as the number of paid sick leave days is increased. It'll rise from 3 to 5 days a year from the 1st of January, at a rate of 70 per cent of gross earnings, with a cap of 110 euro. Paid sick leave is to increase from 3 to 5 days from January 1st.Neale Richmond, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment with Special Responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail and Laura Bambrick, Social Policy Officer, Irish Congress of Trade Unions.Junior Minister Neale Richmond also discussed the Fine Gael special conference on Rural Ireland, taking place tomorrow...

Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Irish chef Paul Flynn, author of ‘Butter Boy’, a brand new cookbook and owner of The Tannery in Waterford...

TRT World Presenter Enda Brady and WLR presenter Damien Tiernan join Kieran on Thursday's edition of The Hard Shoulder to react to Ryan Tubridy joining Virgin Radio in the UK.

Earlier today Josef Puska was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Ashling Murphy.  Kieran was joined by Frank Greaney, Newstalk’s Courts Correspondent to discuss...

Fine Gael are to host a special conference this weekend in Maynooth which will focus on the opportunities and challenges facing the rural part of our country.  One talking point during the event will be “Thriving Rural Ireland”, which got us asking the question on this show, is rural Ireland actually thriving? Kieran was joined by Paul Treyvaud, Owner of Treyvaud’s Restaurant in Killarney and Seamus Boland CEO of Irish Rural Link to discuss...

Cybercrime is considered the most disruptive economic crime facing the business community  That’s according to Grant Thornton Ireland who have reported the economic cost of cybercrime in Ireland to come in at €9.6 billion  So who is most at risk and how can we fight back against it? Sarah Madden Reports...

It’s that time of the week again where Kieran brings you the latest podcast recommendation with the pod squad.  Joining Kieran to discuss this week’s podcast is Ciara King, Radio Broadcaster and Aideen Finnegan, Podcast Producer with the Irish Times This week’s podcast is The Planet Earth Podcast, a behind the scenes look at the famous BBC series featuring the iconic David Attenborough... 

TV writer and author of 'Tough Crowd' Graham Linehan talked to Kieran about his career, being cancelled and the transgender issue.

Cybercrime is considered the most disruptive economic crime facing the business community That’s according to Grant Thornton Ireland who have reported the economic cost of cybercrime in Ireland to come in at €9.6 billion So who is most at risk and how can we fight back against it?  Sarah Madden reports.

Tánaiste Micheál Martin spoke to Kieran on Wednesday's edition of The Hard Shoulder with the latest on efforts to get Irish citizens out of Gaza.

The Government has agreed to provide RTÉ with interim funding of €56 million for this year and 2024, subject to certain conditions being met. As part of RTE's new strategic vision, it was also announced yesterday that the public broadcaster will be cutting more than 400 jobs by 2028 and plans to outsource half of its content production to independent production companies. So what does this mean for the future of the public service broadcaster? Joining Kieran this evening was:Dr Finola Doyle O'Neill, Broadcast and Legal Historian at the School of History, UCC and a former member of the Future of Media Commission Timmy Dooley, Fianna Fail Senator and member of the Oireachtas Media Committee  Irial Mac Mhurcu, CEO of Nemeton Trevor Keegan, Chair of the RTE sub-branch of the NUJ John Lee, Executive Editor, Daily Mail Group Ireland 

Paschal Donohoe, Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform, Joined Kieran to discuss the big news in politics this week.Pascal discussed, The National Development Plans Delivery and Capital Expenditure to date, Public sector Pay talks, RTE's Future and what energy credits will look like this year as part of budget 2024.

Time for ‘Common Ground’, and Kieran was joined as always by Fine Gael Senator Regina Doherty and Socialist TD for Cork North Central, and member of the Oireachtas Enterprise, Trade and Employment Committee, Mick Barry. This week the three discussed whether fossil fuels have a role in Ireland in the future or whether their time is up.

Independent Senator, David Norris has today announced his retirement from politics. David is the longest-serving senator in Irish History.As a politician, he was hugely influential in gaining rights for the gay community in Ireland challenging the Irish court's ban on Homosexuality.He also ran for president in 1987 and was widely appreciated for his commitment to politics.David took the time to sit down with Kieran to say why now was the right time for retirement.

As normal on a Tuesday, Kieran was joined by Travel Journalist and Lonely Planet author Fionn Davenport. This week we are jetting off to the home of the US president and 90 museums: Washington DC

David Cameron is back. What does his shocking return say about British politics?To discuss, Kieran was joined by Political Commentator Adam Boulton and Dr Jennifer Cassidy, Lecturer in Diplomatic Studies at Oxford University.

RTÉ has told the Government it will reduce staff numbers by 20 per cent in a plan that will be unveiled to staff tomorrow. Kieran discussed the latest with David Davin-Power, a former RTÉ political correspondent.

The Wolfe Tones have been making headlines the last few months with sell-out gigs at EP and the Féile in Belfast but today they are in the headlines once again, as the Irish rebel band have announced they are set to retire.They will hang up their instruments in 2024 after 60 years of performing together. Kieran spoke to Wolfe Tones member Brian Warfield to reflect on the group's successes.

RTÉ cuts, the Irish approach to Israel, Housing For All, and benefits for Ukrainians.Craig Hughes, Political Correspondent for the Irish Daily Mail, joined Kieran to discuss the coming week in politics.

Our coverage of Storm Debi continues. Joining Kieran this time was Keith Leonard, Director of emergency management at the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government, Brian Tapley, Regional Customer and Delivery Project Manager with ESB, Ciara Russell, owner of SIAR in Kinvarra, Galway and Ronan Hennigan, owner of a Londis supermarket in Clarenbridge, Galway 

The Driving Curriculum in Ireland is set to change in an attempt to modernise the test, according to the Chairperson of the RSA, Liz O’Donnell. It comes as road deaths have soared this year. To discuss, Kieran was joined by Brenda Bolger of Bolger School of Motoring in Kilkenny and Transport Commentator Conor Faughnan.

Former UK Prime Minister David Cameron has made a sensational return to politics.Cameron resigned as Prime Minister in 2016 when Britain voted for Brexit. In a shocking turn of events he has now replaced the sacked Suella Braverman. Kieran was joined by Channel 4 News Political Editor Gary Gibbon and former Conservative MP and Minister and former Brexit Party MEP Ann Widdecombe.

Storm Debi has hit Ireland this morning and the country has seen major disruptions to many public services with areas in Galway among the worst hit.To discuss the effects of the bad weather, Kieran was joined by Brian Tapley, Regional Customer and Delivery Project Manager, Joanna Donnelly of Met Eireann, Mary McCarthy, Columnist with the Independent, and Martina Kinane, Fianna Fáil Councillor in Clarenbridge, Co. Galway.

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists...

Yesterday Jozef Puska was found guilty of the murder of Ashling Murphy. Since Ashling’s murder and throughout her trial, discussions have been happening around the country about violence against women and how to help keep women safe in Ireland Kieran was joined by Newstalk Breakfast presenter Shane Coleman and Shane Hannon Presenter with Off The Ball to offer what impact this trial has had from a male perspective.

An exciting weekend of sports is ahead of us.The FAI cup final will see St Patrick’s Athletic take on Bohemians on Sunday in the Aviva.Kieran and Ger previewed the game and also chatted about Evan Ferguson's new Brighton contract and the worrying future of FAI funding.

The second annual Divorce in Ireland conference was held online.The summit's existence signifies the increasing prevalence of divorce in this country.But as rates rise, so too may instances of post-marriage remorse.Newstalk's Sarah Madden reports on Divorce and regret in Irish Divorcees.

After 118 long days it appears the Hollywood actor strike is at an end – however the pause in production may have ramifications for your favourite TV shows and movies for years to come.Kieran was joined by John Fardy, Presenter of Screentime on Newstalk  to discuss

The ongoing recruitment freeze within the HSE is to be extended to include more staff positions. In a memo sent to senior managers this morning – the HSE said the recruitment freeze is being widened to all categories of staff with the exception of consultants, doctors in training and 2023 graduate nurses and midwives. The move comes as the HSE struggles to battle a 1-and-a-half billion euro shortfall in their budget for 2023. Kieran was joined by David Cullinane, Sinn Fein Spokesperson for Health to reflect on the decision.

Have you ever been out for a meal in a restaurant and a screaming or misbehaving child has ruined your dining experience?A restaurant in the state of Georgia is taking action charging families a surcharge of 50 Dollars for their children’s “bad behavior.” But could dining establishments here in Ireland introduce a similar charge and is it potentially good idea? Joining Kieran to discuss this further was Jen Hogan , Columnist with the Irish Times and Stefanie Preissner, Presenter of the Basically Podcast  

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today as she does every Friday. Aisling is taking us on all on a date today as she talks us through the culinary history of the date and the many tasty treats and meals that can be made with the humble fruit.

Comedian, TV star and author, PJ Gallagher joined Kieran for The Thursday Interview to talk about his new book 'Madhouse' and the new addition to his family...

Jozef Puska has been found guilty of the murder of Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022.Kieran spoke to Gary Gannon, Social Democrats TD for Dublin Central, Eve McDowell, Co-Founder of Stalking Ireland and advocacy specialist at active consent and Orla O’Conner, Director of National Women’s Council .

Jozef Puska has been found guilty of the murder of Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022.Kieran spoke to Sarah Benson, CEO of Women’s Aid, Brianna Parkins, Irish Times Columnist and Jess Kelly, Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent.

Jozef Puska has been found guilty of the murder of Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022.Kieran spoke to Sinead O’Carroll, editor of TheJournal.ie, Ailbhe Smyth, activist and campaigner and influencer, Holly Carpenter.

Jozef Puska has been found guilty of the murder of Ashling Murphy on 12 January 2022.Kieran spoke to Ashling's friend, Laura and Ashling's lecturer Dr Ailbhe Kenny, Associate Professor of Music Education at Mary Immaculate College.

Sarina Bellissimo, presenter of The Bellissimo Files Podcast, and Newstalk’s own Sue Murphy have joined Kieran once again with all the latest in TV and Movie  including 'Sly', the Sylvester Stalone documentary, (I Am) Robbie Williams and Selling Sunsets.

An OECD Alcohol Consumption study has put Ireland in the world's top 10 binge-drinking countries. Kieran was joined by Professor Frank Murray, Chairman of Alcohol Health Action Ireland, Niamh Maher, Commercial Creative Director with Journal Media and Architect, Hugh Wallace.

RTE Sports Broadcaster Evanne Ni Chuilinn joined Kieran to chat about her new book 'The Great Irish book of Gaelic Games' illustrated by Donough O’Malley.'The Great Irish book of Gaelic Games' is out now and is a perfect introduction to Ireland’s ancient and historic games.  

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Kieran put a variety of toilet cleaners to the test...

Newstalk reporter Henry McKean visited a Dublin 7 apartment block that has been infested with rats.He spoke with the residents dealing with the rodents and how they've taken over their community.

Claire McKenna, Host of Alive and Kicking on Newstalk and actress, Eilish O’Caroll joined Kieran to discuss the joys of ageing!

There has been criticism that Sinn Fein have not been engaging with the Israeli Embassy despite saying they will ‘talk to everybody’. This comes as the Ambassador for Israel won’t be receiving an invitation to Sinn Fein’s Ard Fheis taking place this weekend in Athlone. Sinn Fein Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs & Defence, Matt McCarthy and Gerard Craughwell, Independent Senator  

Bobby McDonagh, Former Ambassador to the UK and the EU spoke to Kieran about Sinn Fein's decision not to invite the Israeli ambassador to their Ard Fheis

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to Bologna ...

Kieran spoke to poet John Cooper Clarke, who has been writing and performing his brand of punk poetry since the 70s. The Irish leg of his tour will include five locations in May 2024.

For this week's Common Ground, Kieran was joined by Fine Gael Senator Regina Doherty and Socialist TD for Cork North Central, and member of the Oireachtas Enterprise, Trade and Employment Committee, Mick Barry. We asked: is war ever justified?

It’s the first Tuesday of November, and this time next year, on the first Tuesday of November 2024, we will see one of the most anticipated US elections in recent times. Who are the likely frontrunners, and what are the issues dearest to US voters?Kieran spoke to Bob Mulholland, a Democratic Party Strategist based in California, and Jerry McDermott, Executive Director of the Irish Cultural Centre and former Norfolk County Sheriff. 

Minister for Education Norma Foley spoke to Kieran about the government's new guidelines encouraging parents to hold off on buying smartphones for children.

There is no end in sight to the four-month Hollywood Strike, as there is still no agreement between the actors’ union and studios. Negotiators for the Screen Actors Guild say they couldn’t agree to the studios’ “last, best and final offer”.    Joining Kieran to discuss was Natalie Britton, Actress and Member of SAG AFTRA and Tim Gray, Executive Vice President of the Golden Globes.

It is one month today since the Hamas attacks that sparked the latest conflict between Israel and Palestine.Is there any prospect of peace? Kieran spoke to John O’Brennan, Professor and Jean Monnet Chair of European Integration at Maynooth University. 

The cabinet has approved new guidelines that will encourage parents not to purchase smartphones for their children in primary school. To discuss, Kieran was joined by Alex Cooney, CyberSafeKids CEO & Co-Founder, Brian Barron, Portlaw National School principal, and Aodhan O’Riordan, Labour Party’s Education spokesperson.

Times are changing, and the Simpsons is still on air, but classic jokes on the hit cartoon such as Homer strangling Bart haven't exactly aged well.Movie reviewer and editor of Geek Ireland Olivia Fahy spoke to Anton about the show's attempts to stay relevant.

Eight hundred teaching posts in primary schools here are unfilled as of this moment. Principal of Rathcoole Educate Together Gemma Maher joined Anton to speak about difficulties the education sector faces due to this shortage.

The government's approach to Ukraine, Sinn Féin's new housing plan, and an Irish Covid inquiry in the works.Brian Mahon, Political Correspondent for the Irish Daily Mail, joined Anton to discuss the coming week in politics.

800 teaching posts in primary schools here are unfilled as of this moment. This is because of a shortage of school teachers, as set out by a survey carried out by primary teacher union the INTO. General Secretary of the INTO joined Anton to discuss.

Motions are being put forward through the council to fly the Palestinian Flag over City Hall in an act of solidarity with people in Gaza.  Should public buildings be used as way to show solidarity with the suffering of Palestinians or it necessary to remain neutral?Cllr Noeleen Reilly and Cllr David McManus joined Anton to discuss.

Dublin Marathon could be forced to get a new route further outside the city. Reports in the Sunday Independent said Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority were unhappy about the “disproportionate adverse impact” the race has on public transport services. Anton spoke to Minister of State for Sport Thomas Byrne about the future of the Marathon.

An architectural firm in the UK has mocked up plans to build hundreds of homes at a north London golf club.The proposals are for 650 homes to be built on Enfield Golf Club's 18-hole course. Here in Ireland, should we be looking to rezone some golf courses for the purpose of housing? To discuss, Anton was joined by Feljin Jose, chairperson of the Dublin Commuter Coalition, and Off The Ball’s Nathan Murphy. 

This week for the latest edition of Winners and Sinners Kieran was joined by Comedian, Jim Elliott and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists...

Its National Sandwich Day! Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat us through the magic of the lunchbox staple.

What gets on your nerves when you got out for a meal? Maybe it’s a complex Menu, where you spend 10 minutes of your meal googling what your dinner actually is?Well, Newstalk Reporter Josh Crosbie took the time to chat with restaurateurs, chefs and menu makers on why nenus are sometimes complicated. He also took to the streets to hear what the public had to say on menu illiteracy.

People Before Profit have called for the nationalisation of childcare free for whoever wants to use the service.The proposed System would see childcares become public servants and would be funded via the budget surplus.The proposal comes as the Childcare system in the state has been facing a multitude of problems, often leaving parents with no access to essential childcare.Joining Kieran to discuss the potential and practicality of such a system was Hazel de Nortúin,  People Before Profit Councillor for Ballyfermot/Drimnagh ward and founder of  Teanga Beo  and Rowena Fisher , Pre-school childcare provider and Owner at Phylls preschool 

The conflict in Gaza between Israel and Hamas continues to escalate day by day despite calls for a humanitarian pause from major world leaders.With no end to hostilities in sight, Kieran was joined again by Ibrahim Alagha an Irish Citizen on the ground in Gaza to give us an update on the situation. He was also by joined Prof. Dr. Izzeldin Abuelaish. A Palestinian Canadian physician, born and raised in Jabalia Refugee Camp in the Gaza Strip and author of ‘I Shall Not Hate: A Gaza Doctor’s Journey on the Road to Peace and Human Dignity’ 

This week on the Thursday interview Kieran was joined by James O'Brien, LBC Radio Presenter to talk about his new book, "How They Broke Britain" As well as delving into his 20-year-plus career as one of the UK's top broadcasters and journalists.

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week, Simon and Kieran try the cheapest beers in the supermarkets. To find out whether they can compete with the big brands of the beer world

The Fifa World Cup looks to be heading to Saudi Arabia in 2034 after Australia confirmed they would not be bidding for the tournament. Fifa had ruled that only Asia or Oceania could host the tournament due 2030 edition being spread across several continents. Philippe Auclair, France Football Correspondent and investigative reporter for Josimar...

Anton Savage was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Do we care about the North'...

The Oireachtas Social Protection Committee is calling for the pension deferral age to be raised from 70 to 75. This would mean you would have the option to work for longer, should you feel fit enough to do so, and access an enhanced rate of the pension when it’s eventually drawn down.Anton Savage was joined by Celine Clark, Head of Advocacy and Public Affairs at Age Action, Michael McMahon, Acting Chair of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and Journalist and Author Valerie Cox to discuss...

Bruce Springsteen is on the way back to Ireland already! 'The Boss' will play at Kilkenny’s Nowlan Park, Cork’s Páirc Uí Caoimh and Dublin’s Croke Park on May 12th, 16th and 19th next year. Anton Savage was joined by Tom McCormack who also serves Organiser of fans for Springsteen Concerts and James Coughlan aka Jimi the Barber from Clare... 

Rain warnings are in place ahead of Storm Ciarán which is set to hit tomorrow night. Anton Savage was joined by Brandon Creagh Meteorologist with Met Eireann, John Sweeney, Climatologist and Professor Emeritus at Maynooth University and Siobhan McGuigan, Owner of the Carlingford Arms Pub and Restaurant in Louth…

Has Halloween become too Americanised? Anton Savage was joined by Brenda Power, columnist with The Irish Daily Mail and Alison Curtis, Presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM to discuss...

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists...

This weekend is a big weekend as it’s the Dublin Marathon. Jarlath Regan, comedian who is currently on tour with his show ‘Yer Man on Tour’ and is running the Dublin Marathon and he joined fellow marathon runner Kieran Cuddihy to look towards the race on Sunday...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through how to make the most of the spices in your cupboard...

James Blunt is a fantastic musician and has been in the industry for around 20 years, receiving over 5 grammy nominations for his work. His new album ‘Who We Used to Be’ is out now and he joined Kieran Cuddihy in studio to chat about this and his life and career thus far...

Tomorrow night is the night - the night many thought Ireland may be competing for the Rugby World Cup, but alas the two Southern Hemisphere giants of South Africa and New Zealand will fight it out at 8pm in the Stade de France. John Robbie, former Irish international and radio host in South Africa and rugby analyst Brent Pope joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder...

Bacon and eggs, bread and butter, Tom and Jerry are just some of the more iconic duos in the world. A new poll as fish and chips as the world most iconic duo. Our very own dynamic duo, Newstalk Breakfast’s Shane Coleman and Ciara Kelly joined Kieran to discuss this on The Hard Shoulder...

Transport Minister, Eamon Ryan says Irish roads are not safe for experienced cyclists, let alone school children. He made the remark during a debate that came after the 155th death on Irish roads in 2023. The same number of people have died in 10 months of this year as in the 12 months of 2022.Henry McKean has been out and about speaking to parents and children who try and cycle to school…

It’s the Weekend Takeover here on Newstalk with Irish Life, and we’re asking how you might get your financial house in order? Laura Duffy, Wealth Management Consultant with Irish Life joined Kieran to discuss..

Over half of Ireland’s wastewater discharges are not meeting EU standards. That’s according to the latest EPA Urban Waste Water Treatment report.  Kieran was joined by Michael Tinsley, Uisce Eireann’s wastewater spokesperson... 

Reports in the Irish Mirror suggest that senior Government ministers are eager to combat the excessive use of phones - particularly smartphones – and there may be plans to ban them. Kieran was joined by Karl Hegarty, Career Guidance Counselor at St. Kevins, Dunlavin and founder of PhoneAwayBox.com, and Rachel Harper, who is the principal at St Patrick’s National School in Greystones...

Diagnoses of serious abnormalities in cervical screening have fallen by almost 60 per cent. That’s according to a new study published in the Irish Journal of Medical Science on the effectiveness of the HPV vaccine. Kieran was joined by Dr Lucy Jessop HSE Immunisation Lead and Consultant in Public Health Medicine at the National Immunisation Office... 

Bus Éireann has been marking the 70th anniversary of Busáras. The bus station is an iconic building that has transported millions of passengers since services began in October 1953. So is the building truly iconic? Kieran was joined by architect, Róisin Murphy and Sinn Féin TD, Eoin Ó Broin, the author of ‘The Dignity of Everyday Life: Celebrating Michael Scott’s Busáras’...

Across the country many parents are fighting to help their children get assessed and access help for dyslexia, but many come up against barriers with waiting lists, financial issues or with no access to supports systems and technologies that are very much needed. Kieran was joined by Aisling, who is the mother to 11-year-old Charlie and Heather, who is the mother to 13 and 12-year-old dyslexic daughters... 

There have been reports of Cabinet disagreement over Equality Minister Roderic O’Gorman’s proposals to limit the offer of state-provided accommodation for Ukrainian refugees to 90 days. Kieran was joined by John Lannon, CEO of Doras and Michael McNamara, Independent TD for Clare...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week, with Halloween around the corner, Simon and Kieran take a look a some of the options for barmbrack on the shelves...

The United Nations’ secretary general Antonio Gutterres has called for an immediate ceasefire to end “epic suffering” in the Gaza Strip. In an address yesterday Mr Gutterres criticised the Israeli response to the Hamas attacks earlier this month. In response Israel’s Ambassador to the UN called on Mr Gutterres to step down from his position. Kieran was joined by Alistair Bunkall, Middle East Correspondent for Sky News and Lior Haiat, Spokesperson for the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs ... 

Dating App Tinder have announced users can give access to up to 15 people over  24 hours, who can view profiles and suggest possible matches even without an account.Tinder is now letting family members suggest potential partners on the dating app. Kieran was joined by Henry McKean to discuss...

Reports of Cabinet disagreement over Equality Minister Roderic O’Gorman’s proposals to limit the offer of state-provided accommodation for Ukrainian refugees to 90 days. Some are saying that doing so would only pass the issue on to another department. What is our strategy moving forward on housing Ukrainians? Kieran was joined by Tom McEneaney, media Consultant and Founder of Effective Aid Ukraine and Teresa Buckowska, formerly with the Immigration Council of Ireland and migrants rights expert...

The EU Tax Observatory has suggested a minimum 2% tax rate on billionaires' global wealth. They have said that it would raise well over €200 billion a year. Kieran was joined by Neasa Hourigan, Green Party TD for Dublin Central and spokesperson on Finance and Health and Seamus Coffey, the former Chair of the Fiscal Advisory Council and Lecturer in Economics at UCC...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. Ahead of Halloween, Fionn joined Kieran to tell him about Ireland's spookiest locations...

Robert Watt, Secretary General of HSE was today discussing the increased costs of running in the Irish health sector.  He was before the Oireachtas Health Committee who met this morning to examine the funding allocated in the health Budget. Mr Watt also claimed that Ireland’s hospitals have a ‘weak productivity’ due to lack of funding into physical infrastructure and a lack on IT investment including digitalisation.  Tony O’Brien, former Director General of the HSE joined Kieran to discuss...

Businesses and organisations worst hit by flooding during Storm Babet could get up to €100,000 in financial aid under new plans brought to cabinet today. The scheme will allow for quick payments of €10,000 and audited and assessed payments of up to €100,000. Simon Coveney, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment joined Kieran to discuss this and also calls for the expulsion of the Israeli Ambassador to Ireland and the ongoing conflict in Gaza...

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Should the Israeli Ambassador be expelled?'...

Sinn Fein are calling for the Government to increase funding in the health budget stating that it is underfunded and will have an adverse effect on our health services. The party will speak on this motion tonight in Dáil Eireann with members from the Department of Health already meeting in front of the Oireachtas Health Committee to discuss this issue around funding. David Cullinane, Sinn Fein's Health Spokesperson joined Kieran to discuss...

Sports clubs, radio personalities and TV programmes are among the most common passwords amongst internet users, making them prime targets for cybercriminals. That’s according to Cyber Skills who has urged people to reconsider their security choices. Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology Correspondent joined Kieran to discuss...

Here in Ireland, we love to criticise landmarks, statues and monuments.Many have caused controversy and have gained their own nicknames but others have drawn crowds from around the world.Last week, the statue of Michael Collins was unveiled in Cork and it got us thinking about our relationships with statues and public art.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, sent us this report on our fascination with statues.

In the Irish Times today, Simon Tierney is writing about vasectomies and says they should be free to all men to take away the contraceptive responsibility from women and narrow the gender gap on this issue. Simon and Dr. Emmet Kiran, from Gentle Procedures Ireland who performs vasectomies on a daily basis joined Kieran on the show to discuss...

Over the next few weeks, Kieran Cuddihy will be taking Irish classes as part of a 'Couch to Comhrá in 6 Weeks' challenge and each Monday he will be sharing his journey alongside some Irish speakers.  Éamonn Ó Domhnaill, Co-Founder and Director of Education of Gaelteanga joined Kieran to kickstart the challenge...

As the Israel-Hamas war continues into its third week, Israeli forces have continued to strike Hamas positions across the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defense Forces said it struck some 320 targets belonging to the Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad terror groups in the Gaza Strip over the past day. Kieran was joined by Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid the Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland and Ibrahim Alagha, who is an Irish Palestinian in Gaza...

Brian Lloyd , Movies Editor with Entertainment.ie joined Kieran to discuss what to do with your old dvds...

The Citizens Assembly on Drugs has recommended the ending of the current prosecution of individuals caught with illegal substances for personal use, following the last meeting of the assembly yesterday Chair of The Citizens Assembly On Drugs, Paul Reid  joined Kieran to discuss...

There were chaotic scenes in Offaly yesterday after referee Barry Tiernan was pushed to the ground by a spectator after Tullamore exited the Leinster club Senior Football Championship against Summerhill.  Is this treatment of a GAA official acceptable and do we have an issue in our game regarding respect for those who referee our matches? Rory Hickey, Former GAA Referee and Aisling Maher, Dublin Camogie Captain joined Kieran to discuss...

Pub group Wetherspoons is putting its regional pubs in Ireland up for sale.The British chain is to sell properties in Cork, Waterford, Galway and Carlow for a guide price of over €10 million.It got us thinking about the Irish pub and even though owners face many challenges, punters generally prefer the old-style pubs to the large franchise.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been in and out of hospitality businesses around West Cork meeting with locals and tourists to hear what makes the best public house.

Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinty College Dublin and Consultant Psychiatrist at Tallaght University Hospital and Dr Mary O’Kane, Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Education joined Kieran to discuss how to talk to children about the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel...

Burt Young, who played Paulie in the ‘Rocky’ films has died aged 83. John Fardy, Presenter of Screentime on Newstalk joined Kieran to pay tribute and look back at the movie franchise...

Many parts of Cork have been damaged by extreme flooding. What was only meant to be a status orange alert, has turned into much more than that, with my homes and businesses destroyed by torrential rainfall. What needs to be done going forward to prevent further damage?  Kieran was joined by Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North Central, Padraig O'Sullivan, Cork City Cllr, Joe Kavanagh and Qualified Climate Scientist, Cathal Naol. 

Technology has taken over the majority of what we do in our daily lives. With some schools wanting to implement technology into exam settings, students will no longer use handwriting at all. What does that mean for the future of handwriting.  To give us their thoughts on the topic, I am joined by Letter collector and curator, Lis Maguire and Today FM Presenter Louise Cantillon.  

Children’s Ombudsman Niall Muldoon has warned the Government that history will not judge Ireland well for the way it has treated children in the Direct Provision system. Niall Muldoon joined Kieran on the show following the publishing of a special report on the safety and welfare of Children in Direct Provision...

How do you feel about marriage? Apparently one third of 25 to 34 year olds don't believe marriage is relevant anymore.Kieran was joined by Mary McCarthy, Columnist with the Irish Independent and Sarah-Jayne Tobin, Content Editor with Evoke.ie to discuss...

Limerick’s new female prison opened today.The facility is part of a €70 million project, including the newly opened B Division at Limerick Prison.The design focuses on rehabilitation, which includes en suite rooms, fitted with phones and a greater emphasis on education and health.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been there and he brings us this report.

In 1973, over 50 years ago, the little island of Ireland took the brave step to join the European Union or the EEC back then. To mark this achivement the CSO have released figures on what Ireland was like back then.Valerie Cox, journalist and author alongside John Kelleher, Producer and former Film Censor joined Kieran to discuss... 

Should Irish fans be supporting England in the Rugby World Cup now that Ireland have been knocked out?Kieran was joined by George Hamilton, Commentator and presenter with RTÉ and Craig Chalmers, Former Scottish Rugby International to discuss...

Today is day 12 of the conflict between Israel and Gaza and Kieran was joined by Jonathan Crickx, Spokesperson for UNICEF in Palestine to give us an update on efforts to get aid to people Thomas Pringle, Independent TD for Donegal also joined Kieran to discuss...

After sitting their state exams back in June, more than 70,000 students across the country received their Junior Cert results today. The new grading system for these exams was implemented two years ago, but how good is this system and is it putting students through unnecessary pressure?  Kieran was joined by Former Headmaster of St. Andrew College Dublin and Director of Godsil Education, Arthur Godsil and Columnist with The Irish Times, Jen Hogan to discuss...

The new National Children’s Hospital will not open until the late spring or early summer of 2025, it is estimated.For more on this, Kieran was joined by Paul Davis, procurement lecturer at the School of Business in DCU and Catherine Murphy, Social Democrats TD for Kildare North and Deputy Chair of the Public Accounts Committee...

In 1973, over 50 years ago, the little island of Ireland took the brave step to join the European Union or the EEC back then. To mark this achivement the CSO have released figures on what Ireland was like back then and we have arranged a few guests to help paint a picture for you at home too... Terry Prone, Chair Of The Communications Clinic and Alice Leahy, From the Alice Leahy Trust joined Kieran to take a look down memory lane...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to down south to beautiful West Cork...

European Union leaders are currently meeting to decide on a united message on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war after days of mixed messages. Series of social media messages, statements and visits by EU officials sowed confusion about the 27-nation bloc’s intentions after Hamas attacked southern Israel on Oct. 7, triggering a new war in Gaza. Kieran was joined by Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with Euronews, Grace O’Sullivan, Green Party MEP and Ibrahim Alagha, and Irish-Palestinian in Gaza...

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Has the war on drugs failed?'

Yesterday, President Michael D Higgins described Ursula von der Leyen’s comments around the Israel-Hamas conflict as "thoughtless and even reckless".Ursula von der Leyen visited Israel last week, and did not include a call for Israel's retaliation to Hamas attacks to conform with international law. The Taoiseach says he told the European Commission President her response to the conflict in the Middle East "was not helpful".Kieran was joined by Pádraig Mac Lochlainn, Sinn Fein TD for Donegal and Independent Senator Gerard Craughwell to discuss…

Smithfield in Dublin has been voted the 2nd coolest neighbourhood on the planet! This is according to a new article by Time Out in which the Dublin 7 area has taken silver out a list of forty locations across the world. For more on this Kieran was joined by Tomás Mulligan, Manager of Cobblestone Bar, Smithfield and Alice Black, Head of Cinema at Light House Group... 

Yesterday on The Hard Shoulder Kieran was was speaking about the fact that the number of alcohol breath tests carried out at Garda checkpoints has dropped by more than half compared with pre-pandemic levels.  For more on this, Kieran was joined by Jack Chambers, Minister of State in the Department of Transport...

The European Central Bank wants to ban 'no cash' policies in public areas for fear that we will reduce the value of the euro and make it harder for vulnerable people to do their shopping.  Kieran was joined by the CEO of the Convenience Stores & Newsagents Association, Vincent Jennings and Spokesperson for the National Private Hire & Taxi Association, Jim Waldron to discuss...

President Michael D Higgins has strongly criticised the head of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. It’s after she made comments on a visit to Israel last Friday, where she did not include a call for Israel's retaliation to conform with international law.John McGuirk, Editor of Gript and Labour Senator Marie Sherlock joined Kieran to discuss...

Unfortunately it was not to be Ireland’s year as the All Blacks have knocked out the Boys in Green in yet another quarter final exit. Is the tournament viewing is now finished for fans?Sinead Ryan, presenter of The Home Show on Newstalk and consumer journalist with the Irish Independent and Ian O Doherty, Columnist with The Irish Independent joined Kieran to discuss...

Every week Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists...

The number of drink-driving checkpoints on the roads is at its lowest level since 2017. An Irish Times analysis of enforcement trends foresees 150,000 drivers in total will be breathalysed by the end of this year. That’s compared to some 314 thousand people who were tested for alcohol at roadsides in 2018. Kieran was joined by Shane Ross, former Minister for Transport and Verona Murphy Independent TD for Wexford to discuss...

Today is the 100th anniversary of Disney. Henry McKean met Disney fans at Disneyland Paris and sent this report, speaking to people from around the world about their love of the Mouse House, the films, characters and theme parks...

Cian O’Carroll, solicitor who represented Vicky Phelan and several other women in the CervicalCheck scandal has criticised RTÉ and Dr Tony Holohan over untruths in an interview done with the former Chief Medical Officer.Kieran was joined by Cian O’Carroll to discuss... 

Leaflets about sex education which have recently been distributed in Dublin have included misleading claims about changes to the Social, Personal and Health Education curriculum. The leaflets make a number of claims about the curriculum, which is in the process of being updated by the Government. Siobhan O’Higgins, co-lead on the national Active consent programme, and research fellow in the school of Psychology in the University of Galway and Eric Nelligan, secondary school teacher and Aontú Education Spokesperson joined Kieran to discuss...

Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Denis Hickie, Former Irish rugby International and Mike Prendergast, Munster Rugby coach to preview tomorrow’s World Cup Quarter Final showdown with the All Blacks...

Hamas say that Palestinians will not adhere to an Israeli warning for 1.1 million people to flee from Gaza. It comes as Israel looks set to begin a ground offensive in the region. Yesterday, the US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken reiterated his country’s support for Israel during a meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Niall Stanage, White House Columnist for The Hill joined Kieran to discuss...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through the most delicious ways to cook broccoli...

In Austria, The ‘Beer Party’, founded by Marco Pogo in 2015 initially as a joke, is now polling at 12 per cent ahead of the Vienna state election. It comes after they promised voters a beer fountain in the capital city Vienna, and an allocation of one barrel of beer per household per month. Kieran was joined by the party’s leader, Marco Pogo...

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

As the country holds its breath ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup Quarter Final showdown with the All Blacks - Henry McKean joined Kieran LIVE from Paris after he met with fans around the French capital…

It was announced today that the age limit to become a Garda has increased from 35 to 50. Justice Minister Helen McEntee said earlier today that every new member would be helped as much as possible to get the training and expertise required. Kieran was joined by former Assistant Garda Commissioner John O’Driscoll and David Nolan, who is assistant professor of Sport and Exercise Science in the DCU School of Health and Human Performance...

Apparently the Gen Z age group hate answering phone calls.This is according to new study by Sky Mobile that found people between 17-25 years old would much rather communicate through apps like Snapchat or WhatsApp then call, with a third of surveyed finding phone calls awkward.   Kieran was joined by Alex Rowley Newstalks Own Gen Z-er, Erin Lally, Influencer and Eimear Neville, Student in UCC... 

The Focus Ireland Shine A Light annual sleepout will take place tomorrow night. The annual event will see companies across the country sleep out all to raise funds for homeless services for Focus Ireland. Kieran was joined by Kelly Ann Byrne, a lived experience Ambassador Focus Ireland and Susan Whyte, Director of Customer Operations at Bord Gais Energy to discuss..Shine A Light 2023 takes place on Friday, 13 October and aims to raise €1.2m to help end family homelessness. Signing up is quick and easy to do. Simply visit shinealight.focusireland.ie to register and select whether you’re sleeping out as an individual or as part of a team. You can then set your fundraising target and a shareable fundraising page will be created for you 

RTÉ executives, including Director General Kevin Bakhurst, have once again appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) this morning.Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Dr Finola Doyle O'Neill, Broadcast and Legal Historian at the School of History, UCC and a former member of the Future of Media Commission and Trevor Keegan, Chair of the RTE sub branch of the NUJ to discuss...

Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris joined Kieran Cuddihy on Thursday's edition of The Hard Shoulder to speak about college fee reductions, RTE and Metrolink.

Frasier, one of the longest running US sitcoms has been rebooted and the new season airs on Paramount+ in the US today. Some early reports have hailed Kelsey Grammer’s "faultless performance". While the Rolling Stone called it an "unfunny, uninspired dud".  Comedian Jim Elliot joined Kieran Cuddihy to discuss…

RTÉ executives, including Director General Kevin Bakhurst, have once again appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) this morning.Kieran was joined by Brian Stanley, Chair of the Public Accounts Committee and Sinn Fein TD for Laois-Offaly…

The Israeli government have warned that they will continue deny water, electricity and fuel to Gaza until Israeli Hostages have been released.   Kieran was joined by Daniel Levy, President of the US/Middle East Project and a Former Israeli Peace Negotiator to discuss...

Meteorologist Joanna Donnelly joined Kieran Cuddihy to discuss her new book 'From Malin Head to Mizen Head: A Journey Around the Sea Area Forecast’...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to Amsterdam...

Healthcare spending of €22.5bn announced in Budget 2024 was announced yesterday, and it was roundly criticised as insufficient to meet rising demand in the sector. The budget has been the focus of contention with the HSE, already estimating a shortfall of up to €1.1bn in this year’s spending. Kieran was joined by Matthew Sadlier, who is chair of the IMO’s Consultants Committee and Brian Turner, Health Economist, Cork University Business School at UCC...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Kieran take a look a some of the options for honey on the shelves...

Israel has kept on the offensive against Hamas targets in Gaza, where entire districts lie in rubble. It’s as Israeli forces find more victims five days after the Islamist militants' onslaught on its southern towns. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar spoke to Pat Kenny this morning, and explained that while Israel has a right to defend itself, he is concerned about how far things might go. To discuss this, Kieran was joined by Alan Shatter, Former Minister for Justice, Fellow of the Israel Council on Foreign Relations & Chairperson of Magen David Adon Ireland snd Gino Kenny, who is People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid-West...

RSV season is upon us, RSV season. It is a virus that can affect us all but which can be very serious in infants under two years, in particular. Broadcaster, podcaster and mother Sile Seoige and Dr Máire Finn, who is a GP at Ennis Centric Health joined Kieran Cuddihy to discuss...

Israel’s blockade of Gaza is continuing with the regions sole power plant now being forced to close down. Israel cut all supplies off to Gaza in retaliation for Hamas attacks on Israel which erupted last weekend. Meanwhile Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the formation of an emergency coalition with the country’s main opposition. Kieran was joined by Bel Trew, International correspondent for The Independent and Sean Bell, retired Air Vice Marshal who served with the UK military and current adviser with global defence consultants UDSS... 

Petrol and diesel cars are set to be banned by 2025 in Stockholm’s City centre.  The move is aimed at reducing noise and traffic congestion as well as improving air quality for its citizens. This begs the question, should we do something similar for our city centres? Kieran was joined by Sadhbh O'Neill, Lecturer in Climate Policy and Environmental Politics at DCU and John Mitchell, Owner, Mitchell Car Accessories on Capel St to discuss...

Environment Minister and Leader of the Green Party joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the measures announced under the Budget 2024 package today…

Ministers Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe have announced a budget package for the coming year worth €14 billion.Sarah Meredith, Tax Director at Grant Thornton, Daniel McConnell, Editor of the Business Post and Danny McCoy, CEO with IBEC joined Kieran to discuss personal finance measures announced today, with thanks to Grant Thornton...

Public Expenditure and Reform Minister Paschal Donohoe joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to discuss the measures announced under the Budget 2024 package today…

Ministers Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe have announced a budget package for the coming year worth €14 billion.Kevin Devenney, Tax Director at Grant Thornton joined Kieran to discuss personal finance measures announced today, with thanks to Grant Thornton...

Ministers Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe have announced a budget package for the coming year worth €14 billion. This is split between expenditure measures of €5.3 billion, €1.1 billion worth of tax measures and a €6.4 billion core package. A reduction in childcare fees, an increase in carbon tax and an increase to the rent tax credit are among the biggest measures. Kieran Cuddihy was joined on The Hard Shoulder by a panel of guests to discuss the measures announced today. Guests include: John Lee, Executive Editor Daily Mail Group Ireland, Emmet Oliver, Lecturer and The Hard Shoulder’s Business Correspondent, Tanya Ward, CEO of Children’s Rights Alliance, Louise O’Reilly, Sinn Féin TD for Dublin Fingal, Adrian Cummins, CEO Restaurants Association, Donall O'Keeffe, CEO of the Licensed Vintners Association and Marian Finnegan, Managing Director of Sherry Fitzgerald....

The last 3 days have seen an escalation of violence between Israel and the Palestinian group, Hamas.  Earlier today Israel has ordered a 'complete siege' of Gaza, saying authorities will cut electricity and block the entry of food and fuel.Kieran was joined by Dana Erlich, Israel's Ambassador to Ireland.

Tomorrow, Michael McGrath and Paschal Donohoe will unveil Budget 2024.  Kieran spoke to some of the interest groups ahead of the Budget including Elaine Dunne, Federation of Early Childhood Providers, Neil McDonnell CEO of ISME  and Mike McMahon, who co-owns the award-winning Mother Mac’s pub on High Street in Limerick City. 

Ahead of budget 2024 founder and head of ESRI's behavioural research unit, Pete Lunn spoke to Kieran about managing personal finances.

According to the Association of Catholic priests it will become more likely to see lay members rather than priests officiating funeral masses due to lack of vocational numbers in the priesthood. Fr. Tim Hazelwood, Parish priest at Killeagh, Cork and Ruth Scott, Radio Presenter and Humanist celebrant spoke to Kieran.

Ireland's next Rugby World Cup match will see them take on the All Blacks. Rugby Commentator, Ryle Nugent, spoke to Kieran ahead of the match.

Newstalk reporter spoke to Israelis and Palestinians who have made Ireland their home, and an Irishman, John Costello, living in Tel Aviv.Image: Irish Citizen Kim Dante missing after festival massacre.

The President of the EU Commission, Ursula von der Leyen expressed her support for Israel online saying that Israel has the right to defend itself, and that the EU stands with them. Ruth Eglash, Freelance reporter in Jerusalem and Clare Daly, Independent MEP for Dublin.

In response to the attacks by Hamas militants, Israel has ordered a 'complete siege' of the Gaza Strip and the cutting off of food, fuel, electricity and water supplies to the area. Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland, Dr. Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid spoke with Kieran.

Plans have been announced by the Labour party in the UK that if they got into government that they would make kids brush their teeth in school.  Under this plan, kids would be supervised when brushing their teeth to help prevent tooth decay which is apparently a leading cause of hospitalization of childrenIs this a solid plan and should we look to do something similar here in Ireland?  Joining Anton Savage to discuss was Dr. Caroline Robbins,  Chair of the GP committee of the Irish Dental Association, and a Dentist at Kiwi Dental in Carlow.

Ahead of Ireland's 4th game in the Rugby World Cup tomorrow and off the back of a heroic win against the Springboks.Anton Savage was joined by Andy Nicol, Former Scottish international, and Mike Prendergast, Munster Rugby coach to preview the game in Paris.

Former Labour Leader and TD Brendan Howlin has announced his retirement from politics and will not contest the next general election.He was first elected to the Dáil for Wexford in 1987 a seat he held for three and a half decades. Brendan took the time to chat with Anton Savage on why now, his and labours time and legacy in government and what he will miss most about political life.

Comedian Legend JimEoin is touring the country playing in Vicar Street Dublin on October 12th and 15th and Galway for the Galway Comedy festival on October 24thJim took the time to sit down with Anton Savage on the show ahead of his tour where they chatted about his jobs over the years, emigrating to Australia, and the odd way his comedy career started.

Now we are kicking off this week's Final Furlong, where we look back at some of the stories that have caught our eye over the past week!   Joining Anton Savage for this edition of The Furlong was:   Presenter on 98FM Suzanne Kane, Comedian Jim Elliot and commercial director with Journal Media Niamh Maher  

After 5 years off our screens Big Brother is returning. The first episode airing on Sunday the 8th of October on ITV.But what was it like to be on the show? What impact did it have on the lives of contestants? And how has society changed since the show's heyday?Anton Savage was joined by Craig Phillips, Big Brother Winner Season One , Hughie Maughan , Big Brother runner up Season Seventeen 

1 in every 30 adults has a gambling problem. That is the rather stark finding in a new ESRI report which has been released today. Oisin McConville Counsellor and Former Armagh Footballer joined Anton Savage to discuss his own experience with gambling addiction... 

Tánaiste, Micheál Martin, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defense, Uachtaráin Fhianna Fáil and TD for Cork South Central joined Anton Savage on The Hard Shoulder to discuss his recent visit to Ukraine, attitudes towards asylum seekers and security of politicians in Ireland…

If all the world’s dogs went vegan it would save more greenhouse gas emissions than those produced by the UK.  That is according to research advocating the environmental benefits of plant-based pets. So is this true, and is it healthy for your pet to go vegan? Pete Wedderburn AKA Pete The Vet joined Anton to discuss...

European Union countries reached a breakthrough this week in years-long negotiations over reforming migration rules. The agreement, when finalised, would allow countries more flexibility in migration and asylum rules when the number of people arriving is exceptionally high. Former Integration Manager with the Immigrant Council of Ireland Teresa Buczkowska told Newstalk Breakfast this morning why more needs to be done...  Trade unionist Brendan Ogle joined Anton Savage to discuss...

The question around the safety of our politicians was called into question after the appalling scenes from the protest outside Leinster House a fortnight ago.  Reviews are now underway with a taskforce on politician's safety meeting this morning with submissions being placed forward to about how to best tackle further issues with suggestions of excursion zones for the public around the building or the possible use of the defence force... Anton Savage was joined by Lisa Chambers Fianna Fail Senator and leader of the Seanad to discuss...

Did you know that Stephen’s Green public toilet is costing over 390,000 to run per year. Is this too much and do you think we should have more toilets?  One proposal which was rejected by Dublin City rates was to instead use that money to offer restaurant's rates to open their loos to the public, so we asked restaurants owners to chime in on this idea.Anthony Grey, Owner of Eala Bhan and Hooked Restaurants in Sligo and Gina Murphy Owner of Hugo's restaurant Dublin joined Anton Savage to discuss...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to The Maldives....

The UK and Ireland are set to be named as hosts of Euro 2028 by UEFA next Tuesday. It’s after Turkey withdrew from the bidding process, after their bid with Italy to host the 2032 tournament was successful. The UK and Ireland bid for 2028 is now unopposed. Kieran was joined by Stephen Hunt, former Irish International and Brian Gartland, Former Dundalk Captain to discuss...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Kieran take a look a some of the options for cheddar cheese on the shelves...

With just 6 days to go until Pashcal Donohoe and Michael McGrath reveal the 2024 Budget. Today, Sinn Féin have launched their alternative budget. The party has proposed a package of €6.8 billion with €1.35 billion set aside for cost-of-living measures. Kieran was joined by Pearse Doherty Sinn Féin’s Finance Spokesperson...

Omid Djalili is an Iranian-British actor and comedian you would remember him from his fantastic appearances in The Mummy and Gladiator. He’s about to kick off his tour in Ireland this November and joined Kieran to discuss...

The UK and Ireland are set to be named as hosts of Euro 2028 by UEFA next Tuesday. It’s after Turkey withdrew from the bidding process, after their bid with Italy to host the 2032 tournament was successful. The UK and Ireland bid for 2028 is now unopposed. Kieran was joined by Lisa Fallon, who is a UEFA Pro Licence football coach, who is currently working with FIFA in their High-Performance Department and Off The Ball’s Stephen Doyle to discuss...

There are thousands of more cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea in Ireland compared to the same time last year. The Health Protection Surveillance Centre's latest report shows cases of Chlamydia have increased by over 40 per cent year-on-year. Kieran was joined by Dr Aisling Loy, Consultant in Genito-Urinary Medicine St James’s Hospital and Himerus Health (www.himerushealth.ie) to discuss...

The Road Safety Authority's annual conference took place today. One of the areas focused on was the use of e-scooters.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, has been meeting with road users, including e-scooter users, to hear their thoughts on the legislation.

John Ryan is one of 13 players to have played for Munster over 200 times but what many won’t know is that he has played his entire career with inflammatory bowel disease. Munster and Ireland rugby star John Ryan has now teamed up with Crohn’s and Colitis Ireland to raise awareness on the issue...

Off The Balls Ger Gilroy Joined Kieran to preview this weekends Sport and everything else sport. The two had a chat on the League of Ireland concluding, The Premier League and crisis yet again at Manchester United and finally Ireland's 2027 Rugby World Cup campaign is already in preparation.

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Is Ireland’s childcare model broken beyond repair?'

Medicines such as the contraceptive pill could be made available over the counter without the need for a GP prescription. That’s according to new draft legislation proposed by Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly.  Madeleine Ni Dhalaigh Vice Chair of the GP Committee of the IMO and GP in Castlerea, Roscommon joined Kieran to discuss...

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by actor, comedian and writer Jack Whitehall, ahead of his tour coming to Ireland later this week....

RTÉ's teletext service Aertel will be shut down from next Thursday.Jess Kelly, Newstalk's Technology correspondent joined Kieran to discuss some other forgotten bits of tech...

The Cabinet has approved a Bill which would see a restructuring of An Bord Pleanala as part of a major overhaul of Ireland’s planning system. Minister for Housing, Darragh O’Brien joined Kieran to discuss...

Many strands of the cost-of-living crisis are being put under the microscope ahead of the Budget next week.Questions have been asked if the attention around bills and fuel prices may be exaggerating the impact in some quarters.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, spoke with people who are feeling the rising costs.

Earlier today, Kieran Cuddihy spoke to boxer Carl Frampton. During the interview he was asked if he had any regrets working with MTK, the sports management company founded by Daniel Kinahan of the Kinahan cartel. But how powerful was the MTK management in the boxing world and how involved the Kinahan’s were in the company?  Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sportswriter Daily Star joined Kieran to discuss... 

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee TD has today welcomed the granting of Irish citizenship to 3,000 new Irish citizens in three separate ceremonies at the Convention Centre in Dublin. Henry McKean was one of them being granted Irish Citizenship and he joined Kieran to discuss...

An Irish amatuer flyweight champion, W&A World flyweight champion, IBF and W&A World Super-Bantaweight champion is just some of the crowns belonging to Carl Frampton A champion boxer from Belfast, he conquered the boxing world in his career from 2009 to 2021. Carl was also massive symbol of peace in his time and he has written a book on his life and joined Kieran to discuss...

Reports from the Irish Times today that up to 30,000 people on their third or subsequent provisional licence have never sat a driving test. In some cases, learners have been driving on them for over 30 years without ever holding a full licence. Brenda Bolger from the Bolger School of Motoring joined Kieran to discuss...

Kieran was joined in studio by Oisin Davis, director of Great Irish Beverages and to discuss his latest book 'Irish Kitchen Cocktails'...

The Citizens’ Assembly on Drugs Use is set to recommend liberalisation of the laws around possession of common illegal drugs, according to its chairman Paul Reid.  The assembly is coming to an end this month and has been deliberating on all aspects of illegal drugs from services, funding and policy. Kieran was joined by Aodhán Ó Riordáin, Labour TD for Dublin Bay North TD and spokesperson on Education & Justice to discuss...

U2 have opened their residency at a brand-new auditorium 'Sphere' in Las Vegas. The band is performing 25 shows up to December 16th - with crowds of nearly 20,000 people due each night.Newstalk's Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly was there and joined Kieran to discuss...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to chat through the most delicious ways to introduce halloumi into your meals...

With the rise of phone and online Scams, a phenomena has emerged known as of Scam Baiting. Where a small group of individuals take the fight back to the Scammers. Kieran was joined by Stephen Kearney, Scam Baiter and Jim Browning, Youtuber and professional Scam Baiter to discuss... 

Ian Madigan, former Irish Rugby international and Leinster and Ulster player announced his retirement last week and he joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...

The Department of Education is to survey parents as part of efforts to encourage more Catholic schools to divest to multi-denominational patronage. The current Programme for Government commits to have 400 multi-denominational primary schools by 2030. However there are only 150 as of today out of over 3,000 schools. Kieran was joined by Simon Lewis, Principal of Carlow Educate Together and Alan Hynes, Chief Executive of the Catholic Education Partnership to discuss...

It’s the first ever National Compliment Day organized by the young people’s mental health charity Jigsaw. But how can a compliment change our mood and our path in the day and do we hand out enough compliments?  Henry McKean has been out finding out do people give compliments?

The Hard Shoulder is LIVE from The Palace Bar on Fleet Street in Dublin. The pub is celebrating it's 200th anniversary.To celebrate the iconic Irish pub culture and The Palace Bar's anniversary, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by writer and broadcaster Keith Walsh, Irish Times columnist Brianna Parkins crime journalist with the Irish Independent, Paul Williams, owner of The Palace Bar, Willie Ahearn, Journalist Roy Curtis and many more...

The Hard Shoulder is LIVE from The Palace Bar on Fleet Street in Dublin. The pub is celebrating it's 200th anniversary. Dublin has changed so much in that period and only in the last few years has this city seen such change from culture, architecture or business.  To discuss the changing face of Dublin and Kieran was joined by Frank McDonald, Former Environment Editor with the Irish Times, Donal Fallon Host of the Three Castels Burning Podcast and Influencer, Holly Carpenter...

We broadcasted live from the Palace Bar on Fleet Street to mark its 200th anniversary.Many guests contributed to the programme for the launch of the Palace Porter.Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie spent the day meeting with some of the local characters who share many fond memories of the establishment.

Newstalk's Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly joined Kieran LIVE in The Palace Bar in Dublin to chat through some tips on how to save a few quid with rewards schemes and loyalty programmes

We’ve seen over the last two days how €157m worth of drugs was seized off the MV Matthew ship off the coast of Cork. Paul Williams, crime journalist with the Irish Independent joined Kieran LIVE in The Palace Bar in Dublin to discuss...

The Hard Shoulder is LIVE from The Palace Bar on Fleet Street in Dublin. The pub is celebrating it's 200th anniversary. To fully understand the influence of this bar and the history of it’s origin and success, Kieran was joined by the owner, Willie Ahearn, and licensed trade historian, Eamon Casey to discuss...

Rank and file Gardaí have voted to withdraw from voluntary overtime throughout October. The GRA has been holding a special conference in Kilkenny following a no confidence vote in Commissioner Drew Harris in a dispute over rosters. Anton Savage was joined by James Morrisore, Deputy General Secretary of the Garda Representative Association to discuss...

Newstalk's own, Simon Tierney joined Kieran Cuddihy for the series 'The Shopping Trolley Hotline'. The series will give listeners pause when they’re filling their trolleys, to consider their options. This week Simon and Kieran take a look a some of the options for lunch meats on the shelves...

It’s the largest drug seizure in the history of the state according to one senior garda - a total of over 2 kilogrammes of suspected cocaine with a street value of €157 million has been seized off the south-east coast last night. Gardaí have said today that about 25 people were on board, but said they cannot comment on the possibility of further arrests. Anton Savage was joined by Cathal Berry, Independent TD for Kildare South and former Army Ranger and Duncan Bullivant, CEO of the Henderson Risk group in the UK, and former British army officer and diplomat to discuss...

'Winnie the Pooh: The Deforested Edition', is the latest version of the iconic children’s story and it is aiming to increase awareness and to teach issues around climate change to children.  But is children’s literature a good place to discuss complex issues such as climate change or are we just clutching at our pearls?  Helena Duggan, Children’s Author joined Anton Savage to discuss..Image: Who Gives A Crap

If you stepped outside, or even looked out your window, at any stage today, you’ll have noticed the weather hasn’t been particularly great all day. Well, that’s all thanks to Storm Agnes, the first storm of this winter season.Anton Savage was joined by Andrew Sherlock, a meteorologist with Met Eireann and our reporter Jamie O’Hara in Cork, where the weather has been particularly bad...

Can you remember the last time you checked your voicemail? Well, apparently you shouldn’t have to worry about that anymore, because, according to etiquette experts, the way we use our phones is changing. Phone calls are out, text messages are in. But are there times when a call is just necessary?Writer and broadcaster Stefanie Preissner and Mary McCarthy, columnist with the Irish Independent joined Anton Savage to discuss...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to Istanbul....

The Shine Festival is set to kick off this October with a range of events that aims to inspire young women across Ireland.  The festival is run by The Shona Project: Empowering and Inspiring the girls of Ireland and will feature events and talks from speakers across many sectors including health, sport, politics and business.   One of the speakers, Ellen Gunning, CEO of MetaComms joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...Image: The Shona Project/Debbie Hickey.

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Is the far left as bad as the far right?'

The Oireachtas Committee on Assisted Dying has been told today that twelve Irish people have travelled to Switzerland to die with Dignitas since 2003 Also, nearly 100 Irish people have become members of the group, which provides physician-supported accompanied suicide.  This is almost double the rate it was two years ago.  Gino Kenny, People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid-West, and member of the Committee joined Kieran to discuss...

Fans of the Great British Bake Off are counting down the hours to the start of season 14 of the show, which kicks off this evening. The show is always a massive success when it returns to our screens, but what is it actually like to be on the other side of the camera for a show like this? Kieran was joined by 2021 winner of the series, Giuseppe Dell’Anno to discuss...

Landlords could pay less tax on rental income going forward.  Proposals are being put forward in advance of budget talks intensifying this week.    One proposal circulated by the Department of Housing suggests a lower rate of tax or increased exemptions for landlords. Kieran was joined by Mike Allen, Director of Advocacy at Focus Ireland and Mary Conway, Spokesperson for The Irish Property Owners Association...

The issue of assisted dying was back before an Oireachtas committee on the issue today. Dignitas which operates in Switzerland where the practice is legal was one of those before the committee today Dignitas member Silvan Luley told TDs this morning that its Irish membership grew from 57 to 80 between 2020 and last year, and that 13 people have travelled to Switzerland to end their lives since 2003, most recently in 2020. Independent Senator Ronan Mullen is on the committee and joined Kieran to discuss this along with comments made by Joe Brolly on The Hard Shoulder about the need for hate speech legislation … 

Ireland’s air quality is not good enough. That’s according to the World Health Organisation who said that the quality of Irish air is just below the standard of the organisation.  One of the ways suggested to promote cleaner air is to introduce more sustainable ways to heat our homes and to stop burning of solid fuels but is that practical - can we actually ban fires in our homes?  Kieran was joined by John Sodeau Emeritus Professor of Chemistry at UCC and Seamus Boland CEO of Irish Rural Link to discuss...

Author Manchán Magan joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss his new book 'Wolf-Men and Water Hounds: The Myths, Monsters and Magic of Ireland'...

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has said there will be a public inquiry into the State’s handling of the Covid 19 pandemic in order to “learn lessons” for the future. For more on this Kieran was joined by Peadar Toibin, TD and Leader of Aontú and Kingston Mills, Professor of Experimental Immunology and Director at Trinity Biomedical Sciences Institute... 

The CSO have released this year's migration figures for Ireland.  Some of the key takeaways is that Ireland’s population has grown by 2 percent with over 120,000 people coming to Ireland. Alongside that we saw that of Irish people leaving our shores and returning home, there is a net zero of Irish people leaving.  Kieran was joined by Alan Barrett, CEO of the ESRI... 

Should there be an inquiry into how we handled Covid in this country? Kieran was joined by Paul Moynagh, Head of the Department of Biology and Director of the Kathleen Lonsdale Institute for Human Health Research at Maynooth University and Michael McNamara, Independent TD for Clare, and the former Chair of Oireachtas Covid 19 Committee to discuss...

 Whenever you’re a spectator at a sporting event, it can hard to control your emotions and passion often gets in the way. Quite often, that can result in foul language or a rising temper, which can easily get out of hand. Behaving that way at a big game like Ireland vs South Africa is one thing, but are we forgetting to change our attitude towards our kids sporting games? Kieran was joined by journalist, columnist and author, Jen Hogan and Newstalk's Technology correspondent, Jess Kelly to discuss...

It may be best known for embarrassing dance challenges, but Tiktok is fast becoming the information app of a new generation. News is broken on twitter, journalists are filing on Instagram - but should we fear the tiktokification of news, or is social media creating a better-informed youth than ever before?Newstalk's Sarah Madden reports.

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge ahead of the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa.TV Chef and Mindful Eating Coach Aisling Larkin joined Kieran to discuss pub grub ahead of the big game tomorrow, joined on this occasion by none other than travel expert Fionn Davenport to discuss the sights to see and places to travel in South Africa...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge ahead of the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa.BJ Botha, World Cup Winner with South Africa joined Kieran to preview the game... 

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge. Tonight celebrates Culture Night 2023 all around the country and Jo Mangan, Director of the Performance corporation and Willie White, Artistic Director, Dublin Theatre Festival joined Kieran to discuss...

Ryle Nugent, former Head of Sport at RTÉ and legendary commentator, joined Kieran Cuddihy LIVE in The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge to preview the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge ahead of the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa.Newstalk's Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly joined Kieran to discuss the presence of technology and AI in sport...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge ahead of the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa.Henry McKean joined Kieran LIVE from Paris ahead of the game...

The Hard Shoulder was LIVE from The Bridge 1859 in Ballsbridge ahead of the Rugby World Cup clash between Ireland and South Africa. Kieran was joined by by two armchair rugby fans, Sinead Ryan, presenter of The Home Show on Newstalk and Ian O’Doherty columnist with the Irish Independent to preview that massive match tomorrow and to hear why the love the game...

Speaking on The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk today, Eddie Wilson, CEO of Ryanair, was not happy with the DAA, after cancelling 17 routes and moving 19 more to alternative EU airports. Kenny Jacobs, CEO of DAA joined Kieran to discuss...

Around 200 protesters held a demonstration outside Leinster House yesterday. Those in attendance beared signs and banners featuring anti-immigration slogans.Kieran was joined by Joe Brolly, co-host of the Free State Podcast to discuss...

 The final day of the National Ploughing Championships takes place in Ratheniska in Co Laois today and over the course of the past three days there have been a number of activities taking place, including a world record welly throw and brown bread competitions. But today, one event will answer the long burning question, who is Ireland’s favourite saint?Fr David Vard, parish priest in Stradbally, joined Kieran to announce the result of the vote.

Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by David Davin Power, former RTE Correspondent and Trade Unionist, Brendan Ogle to discuss yesterday's protests outside Leinster House...

Some 200 protesters held a demonstration bearing signs and banners featuring anti-immigration slogans outside Leinster House yesterday. Politicians, journalists and staff were verbally abused as they entered the parliament and those inside were advised by Gardaí to be careful when leaving.Kieran was joined on The Hard Shoulder by Razan Ibraheem, a journalist specialising in misinformation to discuss...

How high should we build in Dublin? Yes the debate has been sparked again. Some say developments need to go up to increase housing stock others say it will ruin Dublin’s image. Newstalk reporter Josh Crosbie has been getting the pulse of the city.

What is the cost of contentment in each country?That’s what a recent study out of Harvard University focused on, finding the highest cost of happiness was in Iran at nearly €232,000 and the lowest was in Sierra Leone at just over 8 grand.Ireland was rudely left off the list of 173 countries, but our own reporter Sarah Madden has been looking into it for us instead.

The Dáil resumed following the summer break today. However, politicians, journalists and staff have been advised not to leave amidst protests that are happening outside Leinster House. Independent TD for Kerry Michael Healy Rae and Louise Burne, Political Correspondent with the Irish Daily Mirror joined Kieran to discuss...

Today marks 25 years since the establishment of TV3. To celebrate this and look back on the memories down the yers, Kieran was joined by Anna Daly, former presenter on TV3 and Virgin Media, former CEO David McRedmond and Aidan Cooney, former presenter on Ireland AM from 1999 until 2018, and now presenter of Q102 Breakfast...

A trans rights march took place at the weekend, and one of the images that caught some attention was the face of Vladimir Lenin on transgender flags. Senator Michael McDowell has been writing about it in The Irish Times and he joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...

Today is National Fitness Day in the UK and they’re encouraging everyone to get out and be active as much as possible. Do we need this same encouragement here? Particularly for young people, what are we doing to keep our kids fit? And what’s the difference between being fit and being physically active. Kieran was joined by Brendan O’Keefe, assistant professor of Physical Education in the Department of Physical Education and Sports Sciences at UL...

As we have been hearing throughout the day, the proposed plans to the Leaving Cert examinations have been shelved.  One the cited reasons was the increased prevalence of GenAI, that’s your ChatGPTs, in examinations and school projects but how strong has the impact of AI been on education sector and is it too late to reverse the damage? Kieran was joined by Michael Madden, Professor of Computer Science & Head of Machine Learning Research Group, University of Galway to discuss...

Finance Minister Michael McGrath has today asked all state owned bodies to continue to accept cash payments. It came following criticism of the NCT service for attempting to move to a cashless system. One such body which has moved cashless in recent times is the GAA, a move which has garnered much criticism. Two former Presidents of the GAA, Sean Kelly and Liam O’Neill joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss..

Tens of thousands attended the second day of the Ploughing Championships in Ratheniska, Co Laois, for what was a mostly dry day.There may be vintage tractors and brand new machinery on display, but one growing trend among young farmers is online content creation.Social media apps are now full of cows being milked, tractors baling silage and sheep being sold.Newstalk reporter, Josh Crosbie, is at the Ploughing meeting with those who are flying the flag for Ireland on Farm Tok.

From Vibrant pink shirts in the Dáil to Dublin football kits in Seanad – there has been a fair share of fashion faux pas in the government buildings. But should there be a dress code? That’s not the thinking in the US, where Senators are now allowed to wear whatever they want to when debating or voting on bills.  Michael Healy Rae Independent TD for County Kerry and Gino Kelly, People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid-West joined Kieran to discuss...

Every week for Tuesday Travel on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world. This week, Fionn joined Kieran to give him tips for a trip to the oldest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura...

Kieran Cuddihy was joined by Fine Gael Senator, Regina Doherty, and Socialist Party TD for Cork North Central, Mick Barry. Continuing the series, ‘Common Ground’, they will debate some of the biggest, most divisive topics around. The series continued with a debate on 'Are young people today better off than their parents?'

There has been a story that has dominated the headlines over the last couple of days, and that is Russell Brand.  The comedian faces allegations of controlling, abusive and predatory behaviour, following a joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4 Dispatches.  Kieran was joined by Meirion Jones, former Editor of the Bureau of Investigative Journalism in the UK – he previously led an investigation in to Jimmy Saville...

The Central Bank has signalled caution ahead of Budget 2024, lowering its forecasts for growth in the economy, while also saying that the Government's spending plans for the upcoming Budget risk adding to inflation. Kieran was joined by Michael McMahon, who is the acting chair of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and Michelle Murphy Research and Policy Analyst with Social Justice Ireland to discuss...

The Clockwork Door Time House in Temple Bar has decided to not partake in this year’s Culture Night as a result of anti-social behavior in the capital city.  The venue took part in Culture Night last year and while trying to celebrate, their equiipment was sadly robbed.  Kieran was joined by owner of The Clock Work Door Time House, Ciaran Hogan to discuss...Image: Instagram via The Clockwork Door

Gardai in Cavan and Monaghan are have launched a probe in to comments made by Sean Quinn.The complaint has been made by Mannok directors Liam McCaffrey and John McCartan following comments made on The Hard Shoulder on Newstalk.Kieran was joined by crime journalist with The Irish Independent, Paul Williams for more on this...

An Oireachtas Committee on Environment and Climate Action was held today on the importance of biodiversity loss across Ireland. Praising farmers for the work they have done to maintain a healthy environment were one of the topics mentioned by Dr Aoibhinn Ni Shúilleabháin.  Yet many changes still need to be made to maintain Ireland’s biodiversity and reduce the risk of extinction.Kieran was joined by associate professor in the UCD School of Mathematics and Statistics, Dr Aoibhinn Ni Shúilleabháin to discuss...

Comedian Reginald D. Hunter joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss his upcoming irish tour and allegations against Russell Brand...

Kieran was joined by former Irish rugby international and Chairman of The One Small Step Campaign, Trevor Ringland, to discuss the Irish sporting anthem 'Ireland's Call' why it was ever needed in the first place and why we might need to hold on to it...

On 29th of September the Irish Cancer Society is holding their Relay for Life event. One of the society's ambassadors and manager of Shamrock Rovers Stephan Bradley joined Kieran on The Hard Shoulder to discuss...

The HSE's commissioned an external review into aspects of orthopaedic surgery at Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street. It follows a number of serious spinal surgical incidents there. Roisin Shortall, Social Democrats TD and Health Spokesperson joined Kieran to discuss...

Are you aware that the majority of your bins can be traced to your weekly shop in the supermarkets?  That’s according to a new survey by Voice Ireland who found 66% of waste items in Irish recycling bins can be traced back to supermarkets and that 59% of these supermarket waste items were made from plastic.  This begs the question should we cut down on packaging and in particular our plastics when it comes to shopping? Tad Kirakowski, Chief Executive of Voice Ireland and Craig Hutson Owner of Minimal Waste Groceries joined Kieran to discuss...

The HSE's commissioned an external review into aspects of orthopaedic surgery at Children's Health Ireland at Temple Street. It follows a number of serious spinal surgical incidents there. Priscilla Lynch Clinical Editor with the Medical Independent joined Kieran to discuss...

Every year when rugby matches take over our screens again, and particularly around World Cup season this time around, there’s an age old debate of should we sing Ireland’s Call? Or should we just sing Amhrán na bhFiann. Or should we get a new national anthem altogether?Kieran was joined by Damien Tiernan, WLR FM Presenter, and John McGahon, Fine Gael Senator...

A hole on Portmarnock beach this week excited one local astronomy enthusiast, as it looked like it may have been a meteor strike. However, it soon became clear that the hole had actually been dug by two local lads.Charlie Wallace, Portmarnock beach hole digger joined Kieran to discuss...

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran today to talk all things buffets

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action...

An Bord Pleanála has today rejected the application from U.S Corporation New Fortress Energy to build a LNG terminal on the Shannon Estuary. Kieran was joined by Don Moore , Chair of the Energy and Climate Action Committee at the Irish Academy of Engineering  and William Hederman, Member of Slí Eile organisers of climate camp ...

Ireland’s world cup campaign shot off last week with a demolition of Romania in Bordeaux. Ireland are now off to Nantes where they will face off against Tonga in match game two in Pool B.  Kieran was joined by Former Ireland and Munster player and Newstalk’s Own Alan Quinlan to get all the latest on the boys in green...

Around the country the Government parties have been assembling across the country for their think-Ins ahead of the start of the next Dáil term.   Kieran was joined by Sean Defoe, Newstalk’s Political Correspondent who was at the Fine Gael Think in in Limerick and Hugh O’Connell, Deputy Political Editor, Irish Independent who was at the Clayton Hotel in Dublin for Sinn Fein’s event... 

A new era for the Late Late Show begins tonight, as Patrick Kielty officially takes the reins.  Is the show still the force it once was? Kieran was joined by Terry Prone, chairman of the Communications Clinic and Deirdre Molumby, pop culture and entertainment expert...Image: Andres Poveda

Tonight is the night the Late Late Show returns to your screens, with the debut of host Patrick Kielty. There has been plenty of chat about to expect. Our reporter Henry McKean has been asking people whether they will watch the show and even met the man in charge, Patrick Kielty...