Behind the Story

Mayo banished decades of losses and a rumoured curse to lift the Sam Maguire trophy and become All Ireland Football Champions after a wait of seventy five years. Host Brian O'Donovan speaks to reporter Damian Lawlor who was pitchside for the historic win. Later, sports psychologist to the Mayo team, Dr Rachel Sheehan talks to Brian about the win and how she worked with the players and manager Andy Moran. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly has described as "extremely significant" the discovery of a bomb in car that was stopped while being driven across the border. Robin Schiller of the Irish Indo joins Fran to outline what it's known so far about the investigation. Later, fashion historian Laura Fitzachary explains why the news of Jonathan Anderson deciding to show the Autumn-Winter collection of Dior in Trinity College Dublin is global news. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT said one of it's models had gone rogue during security testing and hacked another company, calling it an 'unprecedented cyber incident'. Professor Barry O'Sullivan of UCC Computer Science joins host Brian O'Donovan to explain the cyber hack but also whether or not, it's as big a deal as being protrayed. Later, Chief Economist with Deloitte, Kate English discusses her favourite July activity - the Summer Economic Statement! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andy Burnham became Britain's 7th prime minister in a decade. He gave his first speech outside Downing Street and RTÉ's Fiona Mitchell joins Evelyn and Brian to discuss the day's events and what Burnham's premiership might mean for Ireland. Evelyn and Brian also discuss the significant changes to the laws around E scooter use, including banning their use for under 18s and mandatory requirement to wear hi-viz jacket and helmet from August. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government plans to roll out a new digital wallet which could contain a person's driving license and other important identity documents. Tech Editor with the Irish Independent, Adrian Weckler explains how the wallet might work. And with a massive weekend of sport ahead, Fran and Eamon chat to a man who works behind the scenes at Croke Park and hear what happens on match days! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Tuesday, Bill and Alison Chawke were given a custodial sentence for assaulting two men in a hotel in 2023. Limerick Leader senior reporter, Sandra Quinn was in the circuit court as the sentence was handed down and joins Paul to explain the case and how the brother and sister reacted to the jail sentence. Later, as the Dáil rises for summer, Political correspondent Mícheál Lehane runs through some of the highs and lows of the term. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Intel announced a €5billion investment in it's facility in Kildare and is promising hundreds of new jobs. The turnaround in the company's fortunes is significant. RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan joins Evelyn to chat about the announcement and how the US government played a role in the renewed success of the chip maker. Later, Entertainment journalist, Brian Lloyd remembers Sam Neill, the Irish-NZ actor who died recently and had a hugely successful career. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As wildfires rage in Spain, several countries have issued heatwave warnings for the next few days. New research from Oxford University indicates that it may be time for governments to adopt specific measures to help people cope in extreme heat. Shiv Yucel joins Fran to discuss how heat is impacting people's daily lives. Later, RTÉ's Conor McCauley outlines the background to the Moygashel bonfire and where those pallets come from! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's just over a week since solicitors walked out and refused to handle legal aid cases in a row over a new payment scheme. Reporter Dyane Connor joins Paul from the district court in Dublin and shares stories from today's sittings where in some cases, people are representing themselves or being sent back to jail as they have no legal representation.  Later, reporter Tania Reut discusses how many years of salary buys a home in Ireland versus Europe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty three year old Kelly Marie Lynch was found dead near Horseshow Bridge in Monaghan on St Patrick's Day 2024. While an initial post mortem report concluded that Kelly had died by drowning, subsequent reviews by other pathologists disagreed with this conclusion. The Lynch family are seeking answers regarding what really happened their daughter that weekend. Documentary maker, Alan Bradley has made a documentary 'The Girl in the Water' about the case and he joins Paul Cunningham to discuss the case. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 250th anniversary of American Independence is celebrated this weekend and millions of people are taking part in events around the country. But first, global superstar Taylor Swift is marrying NFL Star Travis Kelce in a 'intimate' ceremony in Madison Square Garden! US Correspondent Jackie Fox joins host Eamon Horan to discuss the celebrations. Later, broadcaster Cormac Ó hEadhra chats about a new documentary focusing on the pivotal role Irish people played in the American Revolution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Ireland's takes over the Presidency of the EU, Paul Cunningham and Juilette Gash go inside Dublin Castle to see what's happening at the opening ceremony. RTÉ's Europe Editor, Tony Connelly and Irish Times Europe correspondent Jack Power discuss the speeches and what hosting the Presidency means. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cuts in excise on diesel and petrol are due to expire at the end of July, however the Government will decide over the next twenty hours what the timeline will be to gradually phase out the reductions. Political Correspondant Michéal Lehane joins host Adam Maguire to discuss the decision facing Ministers. Later, Deirdre Malone, Employment Law Head at EY Law Ireland explains the changes to the retirement age that are coming into effect today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was this day 30 years ago that saw one of the most shocking killings in the history of the Irish state - the murder of crime journalist Veronica Guerin.Fran is joined by the Irish Independent's Paul Williams to mark the anniversary.Paul discusses the day itself, its aftermath and the legacy that lives through to today in how the state tackles gangland crime. He also discusses his own experiences being a crime journalist at the time and the threats made to his life.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Joint Committee on Drugs Use has recommended the decriminalisation of possession of all drugs for personal use - Fran and Paul discuss exactly what is in the report and whether it will even come to pass.Later, Lisbon-based journalist Alison Roberts joins the pod to outline the experience from Portugal - which became the first country to adopt the measure in 2001.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Keir Starmer announces his resignation as UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham looks set to be the man to take over for him but what will his premiership look like?Fran is joined by one man who co-wrote a book with Burnham - the Liverpool Echo's Political Editor Liam Thorp.Later, Aengus Cox explains how new customs charges could make online shopping a lot more expensive.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Time's Jack McCarron joins Fran and Eamon to discuss whether a Peter Thiel backed conference could land in Ireland.Fran and Eamon also discuss why Andy Burnham's emphatic win in Makerfield could crown him Prime Minister.Plus there's the biggest storylines from week one of the World Cup and a chat on the strangest places the lads have broadcast from.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An election on Thursday in the UK could ultimately determine who leads the country. Andy Burnham is running in the Makerfield bye-election with his eyes set on a subsequent British Labour Party leadership battle. James Lyons, former director of strategic communications at 10 Downing Street under Keir Starmer, tells Fran and Paul why the stakes could not be higher.They also discuss if they would move to Lovely Leitrim, and how MEPs voted on so-called 'return hubs' for illegal migrants in the EU.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Children under age 16 will soon be banned from social media in the UK under proposals announced by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer today.It comes as Tánaiste Simon Harris said Ireland should follow suit with the UK – but added that he hopes “this is an issue that Europe can arrive at a consensus on”.Work and Technology Correspondent Brian O'Donovan joins Fran to discuss why there are so many variations of bans around - and how they're not as airtight as some people would like.Brian also talks about Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit to Ireland and why he missed his country's World Cup game.Later, Crime Editor with the Irish Sun Stephen Breen discusses the latest search for missing women Deirdre Jacob and Jo Jo Dullard amid hopes for a breakthrough.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Republic of Ireland's upcoming match against Israel will no longer be played in Dublin, a decision that has sparked debate far beyond football.Fran McNulty and Evelyn O'Rourke are joined by Irish Times Sports Correspondent Gavin Cooney to discuss one of the most talked-about stories in Irish sport.They also take in the opening days of the World Cup, the spectacle of UFC heading to the White House and the huge summer of concerts beginning across Ireland.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's Behind the Story, Paul and Fran examine the racist violence that erupted in Northern Ireland following a stabbing incident, exploring the scapegoating of migrants and economic insecurity in fuelling unrest, and how social media can amplify tensions and spread misinformation.They also investigate why nearly one-in-ten Dublin City Council wheel clamps are being illegally removed or destroyed - and whether motorists are taking enforcement into their own hands.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sean McGovern, one of the most senior figures in the Kinahan Organised Crime Group to be convicted in the Irish courts, has been sentenced to 24 years in prison for directing the gang's activities in relation to the murder of Noel Kirwan and the attempted murder of James Gately. The sentencing hearing provided a rare insight into how the Kinahan organisation operated at the height of the Hutch-Kinahan feud, revealing the use of tracker devices, encrypted communications and sophisticated surveillance operations to identify and target victims. Fran McNulty is joined by RTÉ Prime Time reporter Paul Murphy to examine the significance of the sentence, McGovern's role within the Kinahan organisation, and what the case reveals about the inner workings of one of Ireland's most powerful criminal networks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A row has broken out between the Minister for Health Jennifer Carroll MacNeill and the Rotunda Hospital over the issue of public only consultants doing private work in the hospital. But what exactly is going on? Priscilla Lynch of the Medical Independent joins Fran and Eamon to explain the disagreement and why the Minister is threatening to withhold funding to the hospital. Later, Eamon and Fran discuss the much anticipated Katie Taylor fight at Croke Park in September and if the ambition of selling out the stadium can be realized. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Minister for Transport, Darragh O'Brien is set to introduce a new €10million pilot scrappage scheme to encourage drivers to switch to electric cars. Paul and Fran discussed the proposed scheme and how it is designed to favour people living in rural Ireland. Later, the duo are joined by journalist Vincent McAviney who explains the background to the riots in Southampton on Tuesday night. Bodycam footage released by the police showed Henry handcuffed and struggling to breathe after being stabbed. Instead of assisting the dying teenager, police were reading him his rights. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With just 10 days to go to the World Cup, Fran is joined by Sky Sports correspondent Rob Harris for a chat about the tournament. The duo discuss tickets, travel costs and with Iran switching it's training base to Mexico, it is possible to host the games without politics getting in the way?! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Construction is underway for the staging of a UFC fight on the front lawn of the White House to mark President Trump's 80th birthday in June. Numerous other events and projects are also in the pipeline to celebrate the 250th anniversary of American Independence in July. Niall Stanage, Associate Editor with The Hill joins Fran and Sharon to discuss the plans and where the money is coming from to pay for the celebrations. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Murrell, estranged husband of former First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon pled guilty this week to embezzlling £400k from the Scottish National Party. Over a 12 years period, Mr Murrell spent money from the party on luxury items. Ms Sturgeon, has denied all knowledge of his behaviour. Veteran reporter Brian Taylor joins Fiona and Paul to discuss the case and the fallout to it. Later, Fiona and Paul tease out the latest suggestion from President Trump that countries like Saudi Arabia and Turkey should sign the Abrahams Accords as part of the US-Iran peace deal. Fiona explains why this is problematic! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A woman has been arrested as part of the investigation into the disappearance and murder of Kyran Durnin. Crime correspondent Paul Reynolds joins Fran with the latest. Later, Liz Carolan of The Briefing.ie and Dr Eoghan Cunningham of UCD discuss new research into chatbots in the recent Dublin Central and Galway West by elections and examine how political messaging on social media is changing. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fourteen Irish citizens are en route back to Ireland following their deportation by Israel.  They were part of the Global Sumud Flotilla along with hundreds of other activists. The government and EU leaders have expressed dismay at the actions of the Israeli authorites. So, has the political mood changed as a result? Later, Fran and Eamon are joined by former Olympic swimmer Nick O'Hare to discuss the inaugural Enhanced Games dubbed the 'steroid olympics' that take place in Las Vegas this weekend. Controversy surrounds the event, as drugs, normally banned in sport, are allowed at these games. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The scale of possible job losses announced by Meta today, came as a surprise to many, up to 350 people could be made redundant in the coming months. Brian O'Donovan joins Fran and Paul to outline the situation and later, Tara McIndoe-Calder of the ESRI discusses AI and it's impact on future work. Fran and Paul also discuss the latest appearance by RTÉ management at the media committee. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supermarkets are increasingly using information about customer shopping habits to develop new pricing structures and influence how you shop. Consumer journalist Caitriona Redmond joins Fran for a chat about dynamic pricing, robots and AI shopping trolleys. Later, Environment correspondent, George Lee speak to Fran about a new flood prediction app that uses publicly available information to predict where flooding will occur. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RTÉ published a revised list of the top 10 highest earners for 2024 which included Derek Mooney after it said it had 'reconsidered what constitutes a presenter'. Mr Mooney was previously not included as he was treated as a producer in the accounts. The media Minister is not happy and will meet RTÉ management next week. Fran and Adam discuss who knew, what and when and what this means for the broadcaster. Later Adam talks through the billionaires businessmen that accompanied Trump to China. And it's Eurovision weekend, Evelyn joins the pod from Vienna to talk voting, favourites and what happens if Australia wins! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former taoiseach Bertie Ahern was recorded without his knowledge on a canvas for the bye-election in Dublin Central. His comments on immigration and second generation Muslims have sparked a storm of criticism. Mr Ahern later walked back his remarks. Political correspondent Barry Lenihan joins Fran and Paul to explain how the video came to light and the response to it. Later, Digital Marketing consultant, Muriel Foley talks about the rise in online shopping scams and how to avoid getting caught out! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, a huge fire broke out in the Tycor area of Waterford. Dozens of businesses have been destroyed and government is promising an emergency aid package for those affected. Damien Tiernan joins Fran and Sharon, he describes the importance of the premises and why it will take months to rebuild/relocate companies. Later, Associate Professor of Politics at Keele University, Dr Kathryn Simpson discusses UK PM Keir Starmer's speech and whether he has done enough to halt the calls for him to resign following Labour's local election loses. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As restrictions around the number of car parking spaces allowed in new developments increasingly come into play, rows are breaking out between householders over parking. With limited or no public transport in some areas, people are parking cars in other estates. Dr Lorraine D'arcy of TU Dublin joins Fran and Eamon to discuss parking and why parents are struggling to get kids to matches and training. Lorraine also reveals a little known fact about bus shelters!! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An independent review into the death of Katie Simpson found 'institutional misogyny' at the centre of failings by the PSNI to investigate her murder. In August 2020, the 21 year old showjumper was admitted to hospital, police initially treated her death as  suicide however, seven months later, her sister's partner, Jonathan Creswell was arrested on suspicion of murder. He later took his own life, one day after his trial began. Journalist, Tanya Fowles knew Katie, she had previously encountered Creswell through her court reporting. She flagged his background of assault to the police but it fell on deaf ears. Tanya joins Fran and Paul to discuss the case and why she believes there is more to uncover in this case. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many people enjoy trekking hills and mountains on bank holiday weekends but the majority of the country's uplands are in very poor state. A recent report revealed that 90% of our protected habitats are in an 'unfavourable' condition. Ecologist Pádraic Fogarty joins Fran for a conversation about what can be done to improve nature on the country's hillsides and he shares his favourite spots in the country for a hike. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A war of words has broken out between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump, with Trump threatening to withdraw US troops from some European countries. Shona Murray of Euronews joins Fran to explain the background to the row and why it's not likely troops would withdraw any time soon. Later, Professor of Ecclesiology, Massimo Faggioli of TCD discusses the different strands of Christianity influencing the White House and how the intervention of Pope Leo recently was a defining moment for the Papacy.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government gave more detail on the latest fuel supports for farmers and agricultural contractors but will it be enough to help the sector? And is there a 'green' divide opening up between urban and rural Ireland? a recent report shows that urban dwellers are benefitting more from sustainability grants. TCD Professor of Transportation Brian Caulfield joins Fran and Paul to discuss if EV car grants should favour those living in rural areas and how did over 100 new electric buses end up lying idle? [clue: there's no charger]! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Character references in court have come back under the spotlight after former TD Jim Glennon issued a character reference for Daniel Ramamoorthy. Ramamoorthy was a former government adviser who was convicted of the sexual exploitation of a 13-year-old boy in 2017. RTÉ Legal Affairs Correspondent Órla O’Donnell discusses the details of the case, and why details of who gives character references are often not made public.Senior Counsel Lorcan Staines also talks about how character references can carry different weight depending on the case, and why he believes consistency should be brought in across different courts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why did RTÉ Radio 1 change the familiar tunes attached to its programmes? Media correspondent Evelyn O'Rourke joins Fran and Eamon to discuss the controversy that erupted over the decision to switch the music and she reveals how many complaints the broadcaster received. Later, Fran and Eamon look at the suggestion by a Trump 'Special Envoy' that Italy should replace Iran in the World Cup in June. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government revealed in the spring economic statement that it is expecting a surplus of €9bn, up from €5bn, however despite the extra money, it's unlikely the purse strings will be opened. Business reporter Adam Maguire joins Fran and Paul to explain how we are awash with money, but can't spend it! Later, Retired Vice Admiral of the Irish Navy, Mark Mellet discusses the security threats that Ireland might face ahead of the EU Presidency in July. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke in the House of Commons today to explain how he wasn't told that Peter Mandelson had failed security vetting for the position of UK Ambassador to the United States. Starmer blamed officials at the Foreign Office for not telling him. Reporter Kate Varley joins Fran to discuss the background the controversy, while, Jon Tonge, Professor of Politics assesses if Starmer has done enough to save his leadership. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fran and Evelyn are joined by presenter Kathryn Thomas to discuss the booming anti-ageing and longetivity industry. More and more people are turning to new scientifc advances to try and extend their lives, however, many of the supplements and procedures are unregulated and untested in humans. Kathryn's two part documentary 'Young Forever' also explores the last advances in aesthetics and asks if we will be able to live longer and healthier lives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fran and Paul discuss Minister Patrick O'Donovan's change of heart in relation to a request for Coimisiún na Meán to review coverage of the fuel protests. And, Ireland will take over the EU Presidency on July 1st for six months. 278 meetings will be held in the country which will present a significant security and logistics challenge. So what's involved? Europe Editor, Tony Connelly explains the ins and outs of the events, how government is preparing and the challenges of a possible visit from President Trump in September. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government announced an additional package of support to help with the impact of higher fuel prices. While the blockades have stopped, Minister Patrick O'Donovan has said he is not happy with the media coverage of last week's protests. Political correspondant, Mícheál Lehane joins Fran to discuss the package and the political fallout. Later, Professor Scott Lucas outlines the row between President Trump and Pope Leo and how the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz might work. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No deal unless the protests are called off, so says the government in response to the escalating crisis surrounding the fuel protests. Laura Fletcher and Eamon Horan discuss who the protestors are, an informal meeting in Burger King and how the government is handling the situation. Later, markets reporter with the Business Post, Kathleen Gallagher explains what predictions markets are and how people are placing bets on sport, war and the weather. And as the Masters continues in Augusta, Eamon reveals his connection to a famous golfer! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Latest opinion polls indicate that there is a significant chance that Viktor Orbán, Prime Minister of Hungary could lose power after  in Sunday's election. Suzanne Lynch of Bloomberg joins Fran and Paul to discuss the challenge to Orbán and if the visit of the US Vice President, JD Vance helps or hinders his chances. Later, as both sides claim victory, Fiona Mitchell dissects the ceasefire deal agreed by the US and Iran. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Increasingly, companies are insisting remote workers return to the office full time. This is causing tension between employees and management. However, there is evidence that forcing people to return is counterproductive and could result in a business losing it's best talent. Professor Kevin Murphy, of University of Limerick joins Fran to discuss the pros and cons of WFH. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The airline industry is sounding the alarm over jet fuel shortages. The cost of aviation fuel has doubled since the Iran war broke out and some airlines are cancelling flights. Travel expert Eoghan Corry and Aviation expert Marina Efthymiou join Fran for a deep dive on the concern within the industry and what's expected to happen, if they conflict continues. Eoghan has advice for those planning overseas holidays this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.