Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words

Violence and abuse directed at women in politics is not just a personal issue, it is a challenge for our democracy. Senator Alison Comyn and Women for Election have published new research revealing the extent of gender based violence experienced by women politicians in Ireland, with 96% of female Oireachtas members who responded reporting online abuse and almost nine in ten experiencing psychological violence. The findings highlight the impact this abuse is having on women's participation in public life and the wider health of Irish democracy. In this episode of In Our Own Words: Fianna Fáil, Senator Alison Comyn, Chair of the Irish Women's Parliamentary Caucus, is joined by Aldagh McDonogh, Chair of Women for Election, and Darcy Lonergan, Development and Support Manager with Women for Election, to discuss the research, its findings and the actions needed to make politics safer and more inclusive for women. Together they look at the experiences of women in public life, the effect abuse has on political participation and campaigning, and why tackling violence against women in politics is essential to protecting and strengthening Ireland's democracy.

In secondary school, students are taught everything from algebra to poetry to straithpictúirí. Students aren’t taught how to apply for a mortgage, or how to ensure they’re maximising their pension, and ultimately, understanding how to can make the best possible lives for themselves. Fianna Fáil TD for Galway West, Albert Dolan, is calling for financial literacy to be introduced in schools. In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Deputy Dolan sits down with Cian Carolan, Managing Director of DNG Financial Services to talk money.   Their message is simple: no student should leave school without having a basic level of financial literacy.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Minister of State at the Department of Sport, Charlie McConalogue TD is joined by Deputy Erin McGreehan, Deputy Peter "Chap" Cleere and Chris Kiernan of Glasnevin Football Club to discuss the vital role sport plays in strengthening communities across Ireland. They explain the upcoming Community Sports Facilities Fund, which opens for applications soon, outlining who can apply, how the new online application system will simplify the process, and why clubs should start preparing now. They also explore the growing demand for sports facilities, the importance of investing in grassroots clubs, increasing participation and inclusion, and how shared use of school facilities can maximise the benefits of public investment. Whether you're involved in a local sports club, volunteer in your community, or simply want to learn more about the funding available, this episode is your guide to the opportunities ahead.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Deputy John Connolly sits down with Clodagh, Jacqui, and John from Tusla's Fostering Service to discuss what it means to be a foster carer.  The three were in Leinster House speaking to representatives for National Fostering Awareness Month in June and to encourage people to consider becoming a foster carer.  Jacqui Smith is the National Fostering Lead for Tusla. Jacqui spoke about the image people may have of children in care but said that those children grow up to be our partners, friends, and colleagues.  Clodagh Downes was in relative foster care as a child and since then she has been on a journey through education in social care, working in disability services and now working with Tusla. Clodagh said the most important thing to a child in care is being told that the situation at hand is not your fault.  John Moriarty was a foster carer for over 20 years years and working as a Foster Peer Support with Tusla. John spoke about the joy in seeing a child in care hit milestones such as attending their first swimming lessons or receiving a good grade in an exam.  Their message is simple: Ireland is recognised as a global leader in foster care; however, the need for new foster carers remains urgent.

As Ireland takes on the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, what are the priorities that will shape the next six months? In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Minister for European Affairs Thomas Byrne TD joins Senator Alison Comyn to discuss Ireland's vision for its EU Presidency. They explore the key issues on the agenda, including strengthening Europe's competitiveness, supporting Ukraine, enhancing security and defence cooperation, tackling migration, driving climate action, and ensuring the EU delivers for citizens across Ireland and Europe. Tune in for an insight into Ireland's leadership role at a pivotal moment for the European Union and what the Presidency means for communities, businesses, and Ireland's place on the European stage.

Fianna Fáil – In Our Own Words In this episode Minister for Transport Darragh O'Brien TD, Deputy Paul McAuliffe and Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee discuss MetroLink,  the transformative public transport project set to connect Swords, Dublin Airport and Dublin City Centre. 🚇 MetroLink will be Ireland's first fully segregated metro system, improving connectivity, supporting the delivery of thousands of new homes, boosting economic competitiveness and creating lasting benefits for generations to come. It will be capable of carrying up to 20,000 passengers per hour in each direction. Metrolink is now moving forward decisively into procurement stage. The panel discusses the latest progress on the project, including major procurement milestones and the steps being taken to ensure MetroLink is delivered for the people of Dublin and Ireland. 🎧 Listen now to Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words Senator Teresa Costello sits down with Úna Ennis from Tallaght, whose 8 year-old son was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) to discuss their hard fought campaign for access to Givinostat. Senator Teresa Costello has said working with families impacted by a rare muscular disease has given her an insight into “real pain and suffering”. The Fianna Fáil Senator has been campaigning with families of children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) to access the drug Givinostat, which slows the progression of the disease that gradually causes weakness and loss of muscle function. They are welcoming the recent decision by the HSE drugs group to recommend the approval of the drug for reimbursement and they want to keep the pressure on so that this happens soon. Úna has said said this has has changed the trajectory for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and urged the HSE to make the life-changing drug available as soon as possible. In this episode we hear about the fight for Givinostat, the stark reality of living with DMD and the hope that access to Givinostat will bring. This is a powerful conversation about resilience, advocacy and the determination of families who refused to give up.  Their message is simple: the treatment exists, and now it must be made available as quickly as possible to the children who need it. 🎧 Listen now to hear the story of Archie and his family and Senator Costello's determination to drive change for families living with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.

On Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words this week Minister Niamh Smyth, TD for Cavan-Monaghan is shining a spotlight on sepsis awareness. Minister Smyth is joined by sepsis survivor Sophie Lanigan, her father Keith, and Cathriona Flanagan and Hannah Tormey from North East Sepsis Awareness, Minister Smyth hears first-hand accounts of the devastating impact sepsis can have on individuals and families. The discussion explores the realities of surviving sepsis, the challenges of recovery, the need for greater public awareness, and the campaign for formal recognition of post-sepsis syndrome and structured follow-up care in Ireland. From Sophie's experience of losing her limbs to Hannah's account of her daughter's battle with sepsis during her Leaving Cert year, this episode highlights the importance of early detection, survivor support, and ensuring that no one faces recovery alone. A moving conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the urgent need for change. 🎧 Listen now on Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words.

To mark Traveller Pride Week, John Connolly TD and Senator Anne Rabbitte host a special episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, drawing on their work as members of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community. Joined by Star Stokes of the Kilkenny Traveller Community Movement and John Collins of Exchange House Ireland and the National Traveller Men's Movement, they discuss the challenges and opportunities facing Traveller communities across Ireland, including health inequalities, mental health, education, discrimination and representation. Through honest conversations and lived experiences, Connolly and Rabbitte explore how policymakers can better listen to and work alongside Traveller communities to deliver meaningful change and improve outcomes for future generations.

41-year-old mother of three, Valerie French, was brutally murdered by her husband, James Kilroy, at their family home in Westport, Co. Mayo, in 2019. Kilroy was convicted and sentenced to life imprisonment in 2024. Since Valerie’s murder, her brother David French has campaigned tirelessly for changes to guardianship legislation in horrific cases such as this, to ensure those who kill their partner cannot automatically retain guardianship rights over their children. In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, David discusses the Guardianship of Infants (Amendment) Bill and the importance of ensuring the welfare and best interests of children remain paramount. He speaks to Senator Dee Ryan and Seanad Justice spokesperson Robbie Gallagher about Valerie, her life, the relationship, her murder and why he advocated for this change in the law. The Bill, which has been introduced to the Dáil, would allow for the removal of guardianship rights from a person convicted of killing their partner or the other parent of their child. Speaking in the Dáil, Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan said: “When you have a human story behind a piece of legislation, or when somebody is prepared to advocate from a very personal point of view, it can have a very significant impact on the Houses of the Oireachtas.” The legislation fulfils the Programme for Government commitment to examine proposals to remove guardianship rights from those convicted of killing their partner or a parent of their child, as part of ongoing work to implement recommendations from the Study on Familicide and Domestic and Family Violence Death Reviews.

In this podcast, we look at the role that Fianna Fáil has played in Ireland's political life. From the foundation of the party, through its achievements and to its future, our panelists discuss where Fianna Fáil came from, the people that built it up and its legacy in Ireland today. With An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Shane Moynihan TD, Dr. Brian Murphy, Dr. Eoin O'Malley, Dr. Sinead McCoole, Anne Twomey

Senator Alison Comyn is joined by Sarah Slazenger, MD of Powerscourt Estate and Alison McNamara from Opportunities for Women to speak about domestic violence and their proposal to turn vacant town centre buildings across Ireland into safe, supported homes for those rebuilding their lives. This is an issue affecting every county. We have vacant buildings in towns and villages nationwide that could be brought back into use quickly and effectively.

Recorded at Fianna Fáil’s National Councillors’ Conference in Mullingar, County Westmeath this episode brings together two voices from different generations of public service. Cllr Mary Bohan, the longest-serving Fianna Fáil councillor in the country, and Cllr Rachel Hartigan, one of the party’s newest and youngest councillors, share their personal journeys into politics.  They discuss why they chose to run for election, what drew them to Fianna Fáil, and how the party’s values continue to shape their work in their communities. They speak with Deputy Shane Moynihan, the Chairman of our Centenary Committee and recall the funniest and unusual gifts and requests they have received.  From experience to fresh perspective, this conversation reflects Fianna Fáil’s deep roots in local communities and its ongoing commitment to public service over the past 100 years.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Minister of State for Special Education Michael Moynihan from Kiskeam in North West Cork is joined by historian Anne Twomey the co-author of Ordinary Women in Extraordinary Times, to explore the crucial role women played in Ireland’s revolutionary period.   From the work of Cumann na mBan to the wider contribution of women across the country, the discussion highlights how their ground breaking impact on the fight for independence was significant, yet often under-recognised.   Ordinary Women in Extraordinary Times is a book by the Shandon Area History Group in Cork highlighting the pivotal and often overlooked roles of Cork women during the Irish War of Independence (1916–1923).   Fianna Fáil's Centenary approaches,  commemorations have opened the door to new research and understanding, this episode reflects on how women are now being restored to their rightful place in Ireland’s history. A powerful and insightful listen.  

The second edition of our 100 Bliain podcast series takes a look at Fianna Fáil’s role in the development of Irish agriculture and looks ahead to its future.  Shane Moynihan TD, Chairperson of the Centenary Committee is joined by former Tánaiste, Minister for Agriculture and TD for Donegal South-West, Mary Coughlan and Chairman of the Brett Group, Jimmy Brett.  Drawing on their political and commercial expertise, our panel discusses the transformative moments in the development of Irish agriculture, the strength of the Irish agrifood sector, the role of women in agriculture, the value of the small farm and the future challenges which lie ahead. A fascinating listen on the past, present and future of farming in Ireland.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words and to mark our Centenary year Senator Alison Comyn and historian Anne Twomey explore the legacy of Cumann na mBan Anne is a member of the Shandon Area History Group and co-author of the book Ordinary Women in Extraordinary Times (2020) and to women discuss Cumann na mBan’s importance in securing an independent Ireland, how this has been largely overlooked but is now being brought to the fore by the work of Anne and others across the country. They talk about the pivotal role of Irish women during the War of Independence , particularly in Cork and the remarkable lengths women like the Wallace sisters and Muriel Swiney went to, running the gauntlet of curfews, gathering intelligence, transferring weapons while running households and businesses. This is a must listen, a fascinating episode about the women who worked for the cause behind the scenes.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, host Pádraig O'Sullivan TD sits down with Dr Fiona Kiernan, Health Economist and CEO of Zoom Health Economic and Policy Advisory, to explore one of the most pressing yet under-discussed areas of Ireland's healthcare system — access to treatments for rare diseases. Drawing on her 17 years as a clinician, including five years as a consultant in ICU at Beaumont Hospital, and her subsequent career in health economics, Dr Kiernan offers a unique dual perspective on the challenges patients face when trying to access innovative and life-changing treatments. Topics discussed include: Why rare diseases act as a "canary in the coal mine" for pricing and reimbursement policy How Ireland's current drug reimbursement system was designed for a different era of medicine, and why it struggles to keep pace with modern innovations like gene therapy The stark reality that Irish patients can wait up to 644 days for drug approval, leaving Ireland near the bottom of EU league tables for reimbursement times The growing two-tier divide between public and private patients in accessing high-cost treatments How European neighbours like Germany approach reimbursement differently, and what lessons Ireland can take The Programme for Government commitment to introduce an early access scheme, and what meaningful reform could look like Feel free to let me know if you'd like the tone adjusted — more formal, more conversational — or if you'd like a shorter version for social media.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Dublin Bay North TD Tom Brabazon sits down with community volunteer Theresa Kelly, founder of the mental health initiative It’s OK Not to Be OK. Theresa shares the powerful experiences that inspired her to act after witnessing too many people struggle in silence. What began as a simple idea, encouraging people to start a conversation has grown into a community-wide movement, with thousands of resource cards distributed, hundreds of awareness pins worn with pride and strong backing from emergency services and local representatives. Together, Tom and Theresa discuss the stigma that still surrounds mental health, why men in particular can find it hard to speak up and how a simple question  “Are you OK?” can change or even save, a life. Tom also reflects on his own experience of reaching out for support and why accessible services and early conversations are so important. This is an honest, hopeful conversation about community, courage and the power of talking.    If you are struggling with mental health you can contact   AWARE helpline CALL 1800 80 48 48 or 01-524 0360   Or the Samaritans:  Call 116 123 

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Aindrias Moynihan TD and Senator Lorraine Clifford-Lee discuss the future of the Irish language in modern Ireland. The conversation explores our ongoing investment in strengthening Irish-speaking communities.  Deputy Moynihan highlights a landmark affordable housing scheme in Gaeltacht Mhúscraí, County Cork, designed to support Irish-speaking families and help preserve the linguistic and cultural heritage of the area. Senator Clifford-Lee  emphasises the importance of engaging students from primary school and the growing role of digital media, from podcasts to social media influencers in making the language vibrant and accessible beyond traditional Gaeltacht regions. Join us for an insightful conversation on how policy, community and culture can work together to ensure the Irish language continues to thrive for the next generation

This is the second in our Seachtain na Gaeilge 2026 podcast series on Fianna Fáil in Our Own Words. We explore personal journeys with the Irish language. Deputies Tom Brabazon TD, Catherine Ardagh TD and Naoise Ó Cearúil TD share their experiences of learning the language from school days and inspirational teachers to time spent in the Gaeltacht, on  Na Blascaodaí and studying the language at university. They reflect on how their relationship with their native language has evolved over time, and the importance of Gaeltacht experiences. They discuss why the language feels more vibrant and relevant today than ever before through music, film and culture. It is a thoughtful, conversation about our love for the language and finding the confidence to speak it.

In the first of a special podcast series celebrating Seachtain na Gaeilge (March 1–17, 2026), Dara Calleary TD and Minister for Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht joins Deputy John Connolly to discuss the importance of the Irish language in everyday life.   With many Irish speakers across the party, the conversation celebrates the language not just during Seachtain na Gaeilge, but all year round.   The discussion explores how so many people in Ireland already have some level of Irish, yet often lack the confidence to use it in everyday life.    As Minister Calleary explains, supporting and encouraging people to speak the Irish they already have is key to keeping the language alive.   The both talk about their experience and connection to the language and the party in Government's recognition of the importance of sustaining thriving Gaeltacht and island communities .   From confidence and culture to leadership and policy, this conversation highlights why Irish is not just something for one week in March,  it’s a living part of who we are.    Fianna Fáil has always viewed the Irish Language as an invaluable cultural asset and we will continue to actively support Gaeilge as a vibrant, living language of the people and an integral part of our national life.

  In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Tony McCormack TD, Fianna Fail’s Spokesperson on Small and Medium Enterprises and Michael Walsh, former Garda Crime Prevention Officer and Security Expert discuss the growing issue of retail crime, its real personal and economic impact on businesses and communities. From the frustration felt by retailers to the revolving door of repeat offending, we discuss the fact that last year alone over  €1.6 billion worth of goods were stolen in this country through shoplifting and organised retail crime We look to solutions, deterrents while focusing on the Programme for Government commitment to publish Retail Crime Strategy with targeted actions to reduce this type of crime and support affected businesses. We discuss the importance of involving frontline stakeholders in the consultation process and what more can be done to protect hardworking people who simply want to run their businesses in safety. 

To celebrate our National Centenary Programme, 100 Bliain, join us for conversation, storytelling and memories from 100 years of Fianna Fáil as well as our hopes and aspirations for the future.  🎙️ Our first episode features An Taoiseach and Uachtarán Fhianna Fáil, Micheál Martin TD, Chair of the Centenary Committee Shane Moynihan TD, and TCD historian Dr Anne Dolan.

In this episode, Fianna Fáil Senator for Kildare South Fiona O'Loughlin is joined by Sorcha McAnespy for a powerful and honest conversation about coercive control.   Sorcha has developed Fig, a trauma-informed digital safety app which offers support to people experiencing coercive control.   The platform helps individuals recognise patterns of abuse early, identify and document behaviour safely and access support discreetly.   The focus of this podcast is simple, to raise awareness, reduce stigma and start real conversations about toxic and unacceptable behaviour in relationships.   Together, Fiona and Sorcha talk about the reality of coercive control, why it can be so hard to spot and why education and early intervention are key.   They examine how technology and policy can work hand in hand to prevent harm before crisis point.   This episode shines a light on hidden abuse, empowering people with knowledge and making sure no one feels alone or unsure about what they’re experiencing.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil : In Our Own Words Minister for Special Education Michael Moynihan joins Deputy Catherine Ardagh and Deputy Pádraig O’Sullivan to discuss the critical importance of delivering inclusive education for children with additional needs across public and private schools.   Minister Moynihan vows that every school "no ifs or buts" regardless of where it is in the country, whether primary or post-primary has an obligation to ensure children with additional needs are properly accommodated. Inclusion is not optional. It requires continued expansion of special classes, increased school places, investment in special schools and a shared commitment from everyone around the table to make it happen.   The episode focuses on the first phased rollout of the new Education Therapy Services, with 45 special schools set to benefit from in-school speech and language therapy and occupational therapy supports very soon.   By embedding therapists directly within school communities, this initiative will provide more timely, joined-up supports for children right where they learn every day.   The discussion also highlights the third phase of special classes being approved for the 2026–2027 school year. A further 38 special classes across 17 counties have been sanctioned, bringing the total number approved so far this year to 301, with additional decisions expected in the weeks ahead.   This rollout represents a clear Programme for Government commitment being delivered, strengthening inclusion in schools, supporting families and educators and ensuring children can access the services they need without unnecessary delay.   With further expansion planned throughout 2026 and beyond, this episode outlines how continued investment and collaboration will help build a more inclusive education system for every child.   Fianna Fáil is committed to delivering real progress in special education ensuring every child gets the support they need to thrive.

This week on Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Senator Teresa Costello, herself a breast cancer survivor, marks World Cancer Day with an open and honest discussion alongside her friend Nicola Guirenne and Aisling Hurley, CEO of Breast Cancer Ireland. Teresa and Nicola speak candidly about their shared journey through treatment, how their cancer diagnosis has impacted their lives and living with the ongoing fear of recurrence. Aisling highlights the importance of the triple assessment, particularly for younger women.  She notes that 24% of women diagnosed with breast cancer are now under the age of 50 and that the disease can be more aggressive in younger patients. The conversation also explores World Cancer Day, advances in imaging, the growing role of AI in detecting early-stage breast cancer sooner while stressing that skilled radiographers and clinicians remain central to care.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil:In Our Own Words, Senator Paul Daly speaks with County Monaghan father and daughter Eamonn and Niamh Monahan who he hosted in Leinster House so they could present the results of their survey on sheep attacks. Dog attacks on livestock have become a devastating and far more common reality for sheep farmers across Ireland. According to their research 73% of farmers reporting attacks on their flocks, an average of 18 sheep killed per incident and more than three‑quarters do not receive compensation. Eamonn and Niamh, have a family farm in Inniskeen, Co. Monaghan and have endured four dog attacks in just five years. Last year they lost four pedigree in‑lamb ewes, a pedigree ram and nine unborn lambs in an attack. They launched a national survey and are elevating the voices of affected farmers across the country. They are calling for urgent change to protect livestock, livelihoods, and rural communities. This episode is a powerful reminder that responsible dog ownership isn’t just about loving animals, it’s about effectual control and shared responsibility.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, we’re talking about the buildings that tell Ireland’s story and the practical steps being taken to protect them.  From churches and libraries to windmills, observatories and thatched homes nearly 700 historic buildings are receiving over €8 million in conservation funding in 2026. Seanad Spokesperson on Heritage Senator Mary Fitzpatrick sits down with Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD on the day he announced this funding, to chat about why built heritage matters They talk about how the Built Heritage Investment Scheme works and what it means for communities right across the country. It including €1.1 million specifically for thatched buildings. When asked what heritage meant to him Minister O’Sullivan said it was once described to him as  Inherited knowledge.  "So I thought that was an interesting definition but I would have always thought, and I think if you ask most people on the street what it means, they would they would consider a heritage built heritage. "So those old buildings, old castles, old churches and ecclesiastical buildings, dotted around country, and we have such a wealth of that. It's extraordinary." This is a relaxed, informative conversation on Fianna Fáil's commitment to funding restoration, supporting traditional skills and making sure Ireland’s built heritage is protected, used and valued for generations to come.

In this episode Deputy Catherine Ardagh speaks with Minister for Housing James Browne TD and the party’s housing spokesperson Deputy Seamus McGrath about the Government’s Housing plan Delivering Homes, Building Communities. They outline and examine the work being done to achieve delivery of 300,000 new homes by 2030, including 72,000 social homes and 90,000 affordable supports.   Fresh from his first call for projects for the €1 billion Housing Infrastructure Investment Fund, Minister Browne explains how the new Housing Activation Office is a pivotal part of how we are going to activate and unlock shovel-ready housing projects across the country.   They discuss needs in their local constituencies and how Government is activating land, delivering key infrastructure, adopting modern construction methods and creating the conditions for private and public sector delivery to accelerate housing at scale.   This is an informative and must-listen episode, an in-depth conversation focusing on how Fianna Fáil in Government is turning policy into real homes.  

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Senator Anne Rabbitte and Deputy Chap Cleere are joined by world-renowned cyberpsychologist and author of The Cyber Effect, Dr. Mary Aiken, to dive deep into the findings of the Fianna Fáil Online Safety Survey. The discussion explores the hidden pressures of "social reciprocity"—the constant digital weight of likes and unanswered messages that keeps a generation of children "always on" and sleep-deprived. Dr. Aiken explains why sleep deprivation is the common thread linking anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem in youth today. The panel also offers vital advice for parents: why confiscating a device can feel like "taking a limb" and may unintentionally isolate a child from their entire support network during a crisis. Instead of digital isolation, the conversation suggests constructive discipline and highlights the ongoing work Fianna Fáil is doing in Government to hold platforms to account and strengthen online safety across Ireland.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, Albert Dolan TD and Malcolm Byrne TD are joined by Darina Dunne, Chairperson of the Irish Physical Activity Alliance, to discuss the urgent need to shift from reactive healthcare to prevention-first policy. With life expectancy in Ireland now at 83 – and rising – the conversation explores how longer lives must also mean healthier lives. From the growing importance of physical activity and strength at every age, to tackling osteoporosis and preventing fragility fractures, our guests challenge the myth that ageing inevitably means decline. They discuss dementia, cardiovascular health, a tax rebate on gym membership while  examining how smart investment in preventative healthcare can deliver better outcomes for individuals, reduce pressure on the health system and help ensure that future generations can remain active, independent, and well throughout their lives

In this episode we discuss how the Irish language is taught in our schools, what changes can be made to improve the curriculum and the emphasis on spoken Irish over written Irish in the Leaving Cert. We also talk about how we all have more Irish than we realise and we should be practising our native language at home, with friends and in our daily routines. Senator Shane Curley is joined by Meghan Scully, Broadcaster & Author as well as Shane Moynihan TD.

In this episode of Fianna Fáil:In Our Own Words, we examine how tackling vacancy and dereliction can deliver homes faster and strengthen communities, as set out in the Government’s Delivering Homes programme. Fianna Fáil Housing Spokesperson Séamus McGrath TD is joined by Marion Jammet, Director of Policy and Advocacy  with the Irish Green Building Council, to discuss the scale of vacant and derelict properties across Ireland and how new measures under Delivering Homes are designed to bring these homes back into use. The discussion covers expanded Croí Cónaithe supports, including the Vacant Above the Shop Grant, which is helping to unlock homes in town and city centres by supporting the conversion of unused space over shops into much-needed housing. It also looks at stronger powers for local authorities to acquire long-term vacant properties, the use of compulsory purchase where necessary, and a renewed focus on town and village renewal. The episode explores how sustainable retrofit and the reuse of existing buildings can deliver homes more quickly, cut emissions, and make better use of existing infrastructure. Together, they outline how Fianna Fáil’s approach is focused on turning empty buildings into homes, cutting red tape, supporting homeowners and communities, and ensuring vacancy and dereliction are central to increasing housing supply under Delivering Homes.

In the wake of ESB Networks’ Review of Storm Éowyn and the latest update to its Winter Resilience Plan, this episode takes a clear-eyed look at how Ireland is strengthening its electricity network against increasingly severe weather. Fianna Fáil Cavan–Monaghan TD Brendan Smith hosts this discussion with Brian Brady, ESB’s Head of Network Resilience and Climate Adaptation, and Karen McGeough, Senior Manager for Storm Resilience and Readiness. Together, they unpack the major learnings from Storm Éowyn, a storm that delivered record-breaking winds, and explore the extensive 23,000 km network inspection, ESB Networks’ approach to rapid storm restoration, and the critical role of forestry and vegetation management. They also delve into international best practice and outline how Ireland is gearing up for the next generation of storms. A timely, informative conversation on what it takes to keep communities connected when it matters most.

This week on Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, we’re diving into all things agriculture. Joining the conversation are Aindrias Moynihan, TD for Cork North West and Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture, Seanad spokesperson on Agriculture, Westmeath Senator Paul Daly and Dublin Central Senator Mary Fitzpatrick. Together, they tackle key issues shaping the sector right now — from Blue Tongue and Bird Flu to Mercosur and the Nitrates Derogation. They break down what these challenges mean on the ground and how they’re impacting farmers, consumers and communities, especially as we head into the busy Christmas season. This is an insightful and informative episode you won’t want to miss. We hope you enjoy listening!  

On this episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, 18 year-old Leaving Cert student Ethan Elwood of St Raphael’s School in Loughrea, County Galway shares his experience of navigating school and exams with dyslexia and ADHD. Speaking candidly about his time in the Junior Cycle, Ethan describes the hidden challenges he faced  when his learning difficulties were undiagnosed. He recounts how he was under constant time pressure in the classroom and often felt like an outsider, wrongly believing that everyone was smarter than him. He sits down with Senator Shane Curley, a former school teacher and Fianna Fáil’s Education spokesperson in the Seanad. Their discussion explores how time constraints in state exams disproportionately affect students with learning differences, often leaving them rushed, frustrated, and unable to show what they truly know. Senator Curley has successfully campaigned for more time for State examinations Ethan’s story highlights why providing additional exam time for students with dyslexia and dyscalculia is not a luxury but a necessity. This conversation offers an honest look at how the education system can support all learners and how small changes - like extra time - can transform a young person’s entire outlook.

This episode coincides with 16 Days of Activism against gender based violence and International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.   Meath West Deputy Aisling Dempsey, Tipperary North TD Ryan O’Meara and Dublin South West Senator Teresa Costello discuss a key measure in Ireland’s new housing strategy, Delivering Homes, Building Communities. The provision ensures that survivors can move to another local authority without losing their place on the housing list.   They also explore Senator Costello’s proposal for training all elected representatives to better support survivors and the importance of speaking out against abuse and why teaching children about equality, respect and healthy relationships matters for the future.

This episode coincides with 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence and International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Twenty-four-year-old Jennifer Poole from Finglas in North Dublin was murdered by her ex-boyfriend Gavin Murphy from Coultry Drive in Ballymun at her home in April 2021. The mother of two was stabbed multiple times by Murphy who unbeknownst to her had a history of violence against women and had served time for attacking a former partner and her mother with a knife. Jennifer had been involved with Murphy for a year prior to her death, she had ended the relationship but he returned to her apartment that afternoon and fatally attacked her. Her young son was outside the apartment and could hear her cries for help. Murphy was jailed for life for her murder in 2022. Murphy had concocted a story that he had been in Spain before he met Jennifer when in actual fact he was in prison. In this episode Jennifer’s brother Jason Poole describes listening to offence after offence that Gavin Murphy had committed, he said his sister didn’t know about his past. Afterwards he asked his local Deputy Paul McAuliffe to help him to campaign for ‘Jennie’s Law’ which would provide for the establishment of a nationwide Domestic Violence Register which would name those convicted of the crime. He has been working with Deputy McAuliffe, the now Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan and Fianna Fáil Senator Fiona O’Loughlin on moving Jennie’s Law forward. Cabinet Approval for Jennie’s Law has been secured and this is the culmination of Jason’s determination and hard work for his sister. In this episode he sits down with Deputy McAuliffe and Senator O’Loughlin about the realisation that this Domestic Violence Register is finally coming to fruition.

In the inaugural episode of Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words, An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Senator Alison Comyn and Deputy Albert Dolan sit down for a powerful conversation that celebrates the past and charts a bold course for the future. This special episode marks a pivotal moment for Fianna Fáil as it approaches its 100-year anniversary. An Taoiseach, Senator Comyn and Deputy Dolan explore the party’s legacy, the wider Fianna Fáil family and a vision for Ireland’s future. With optimism and ambition, the conversation highlights Fianna Fáil’s role in shaping national and European policy, empowering communities and renewing democratic engagement In the very first episode of our podcast, Fianna Fáil: In Our Own Words our guests chat about what being a member of the Fianna Fáil Parliamentary Party means to them, the connections they have made, the strong bond within the membership, service and commitment. They discuss this pivotal time for the party as it approaches its 100-year anniversary.