#652 Roses Are Red, Wallets Are Closed

Niall talks to TD Paul Lawless from Aontu about the latest on Board Bia. Also: This Valentine’s Day episode dives into the romance, the history — and the debate — around one of the most loved (and sometimes eye-rolled) dates on the calendar.Niall explores the origins of Valentine’s Day, from the story of St Valentine — the Roman priest said to have secretly married couples — to the medieval poets who linked mid-February with romance. He also looks at how the celebration evolved into today’s highly commercial event, fuelled by mass-produced cards in the 19th century and later by florists, confectionery companies and big retail marketing.And that leads to tonight’s talking point. A listener has been in touch to say his friend never buys his wife anything for Valentine’s Day and feels a hug and the words “I love you” are enough for her. She doesn’t feel quite as satisfied by his actions as he does. He believes the whole thing is ridiculous and overly commercialised, and that you don’t need flowers, cards or chocolates to show someone you love them.So — is he right, or is he just being mean and a bit tight?Niall asks whether Valentine’s Day gestures really matter, if romance has become too commercial, and what actually makes people feel loved — grand gestures, small tokens, or simply sincere words.