Path to Power

John Deasy and Brenda Power join Matt for a spirited exchange about Patrick Kielty’s Late Late Show comments and how they have sparked wider allegations that Ireland is antisemitic. Before that, they discuss why Ireland won’t ever go nuclear and why the country’s abortion laws are likely to remain unchanged. The impact of Gerry Hutch in the Dublin Central by-election and how Sinn Féin addresses his immigrant and race-baiting. How is the unity of the Left in the by-elections? Our pullback on Ukrainian support, character references from TDs for the convicted, and are student fee reductions the next Fianna Fáil/ Fine Gael split? Get in touch: [email protected] Follow Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by Danny McConnell and John Lee to discuss the changing government generosity towards Ukrainians and how this may have been influenced by the by-election in Galway West and Dublin Central. On the latter, they explore why a Sinn Féin win in Mary Lou's home constituency is not the slam dunk it should be, due to the presence of Gerry Hutch and possible voter confusion about what Sinn Féin stands for. They discuss the potential for Dara Calleary to become the leader of Fianna Fáil. Matt condemns the failure to get electric buses on the road and expresses bafflement at dust in the ducts at the National Children's Hospital, and they finish with praise for the financial generosity of former President Michael D. Higgins. PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Long-time protest activist Brendan Ogle takes issue with the conduct of the diesel protests and the government’s capitulation to unlicensed protesters. He details his own experiences with the Locomotive Drivers' Association, the Right2Water campaign, and the Apollo House protest against homelessness.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Shane Coleman and Lise Hand join Matt, and they start with the suggested split in the Healy-Rae dynasty. They discuss all the issues related to the rural-urban divide, with particular emphasis on deprivation in urban areas. What would the public reaction be if people living in the inner cities did what the farmers did? Could the protesters bring us towards having an Irish Trump? Is the government, awash with cash, going to be a soft touch to further protests? A debate on the merits of bringing back social partnership, are we on the road to anarchy, and have we forgotten the crash? They discuss the controversy caused by Leo Varadkar’s comments about the rural-urban divide and who really pays the bills. The highly paid Robert Watt, cause he’s worth it? And how clever has Catherine Connolly’s immigration legislation position been?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Trump continues his suspension of the assault on Iran, Matt and Marion divert to the case of Kash Patel's sobriety, Pete Hegseth's use of a Pulp Fiction script as scripture, and RFK Jr.'s interest in the penises of raccoons. They discuss the sincerity of Tucker Carlson recanting his support for Trump, and how Marjorie Taylor Greene brings it all back to the Epstein files. Why MAGA is losing faith in the story it believed about the Trump assassination attempt. Trump's Fed nominee, Kevin Warsh and accusations that he's a 'sock puppet'. The many problems besetting the FIFA World Cup. And Joe Rogan persuades Trump to be interested in psychedelic drugs.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and former political correspondent Áine Kerr join Matt to analyse the politics of the past fortnight, dominated by the diesel protests. They look at Jim O’Callaghan’s use of the army, Patrick O’Donovan’s aborted assault on the media, and what the protests tell us about the rural-urban divide. The resignation of Junior Minister Michael Healy-Rae. How the opposition parties behaved during the protests. The Fianna Fáil youthful backbencher revolt. Dáil member behaviour towards and overall decorum. And Trump and the Pope.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Driving the protesters off the blocked roads: Brenda Power and John Deasy join Matt to discuss how the government has to confront threatened anarchy. Carbon tax increases debated, and is the future Nuclear? Why objections to IPAS Centres won't be bypassed. Why the Department of Education can't get its budget sums right, the problem with voluntary contributions, and paying teachers appropriately. Also, Mary Lou McDonald's belief that a united Ireland is the pressing political issue, will she campaign on that basis in the by-elections?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lise Hand and John Lee join Matt to discuss if the MetroLink project may be derailed by the untimely departure of its boss, Seán Sweeney, and if the government finances become shredded, will MetroLink become a victim again? How the attack on Iran continues to affect the Irish economy and the impact on the government's decision-making. Super saver Simon Harris: What does he want you to do with your money (if you have any)? Is Trump responsible for the increased sales of EV cars? Where would Ireland put a nuclear power plant? And tributes to the late Dr Rory O'Hanlon.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt and open with a discussion on the proposal to limit the number of TDs. They discuss the 18th delay to the handing over of a National Children's Hospital by BAM. Do we need more Robert Watts running our Civil Service? The politics of excise cuts and fiscal discipline. How can overruns at the Department of Education happen annually? Have they learnt nothing? The impact of Jim O'Callaghan in Justice and who is responsible for increased Garda visibility.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by Brendan Ogle and Larry Donnelly to look at Irish reactions to Trump's Iranian assault. They rate and review Micheál Martin's Oval Office visit as much for what it signified as what he said. They discuss whether it is safe for Irish people to go to America, especially for the World Cup. Brendan, a regular visitor to Cuba, explains why we should continue to monitor the situation there while all the tension and focus are on the Middle East. They return home to discuss the many price increases that are likely to result from the Gulf crisis and what the government could and should do in response. They debate the number of data centres and the price they should pay for electricity. And they finish on the Oireachtas hearing on the extension of passenger numbers at Dublin Airport.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lise Hand and Shane Coleman join Matt to assess the perilous nature of Micheál Martin's visit to the Oval Office: what sort of Trump will he find, can he safeguard Irish interests, and is it right to be dealing with the increasingly erratic president at all at a time of war? Was Catherine Connolly out of line to make statements about violations of international law, and in doing so, was she putting it up to the government? Lise and Shane disagree vehemently. Matt defends the Moriarty Tribunal from the criticisms of Michael Lowry and Denis O'Brien. And also, a short clip from Leo Varadkar - our new PTP cast member.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenda Power and John Deasy join Matt to discuss America's assault on Iran and what Ireland's position on it should be. They assess what Micheál Martin should do in Washington the week after next, and how a prolonged war would prompt a cost-of-living crisis. They debate whether the government should be paying for people to return from the Gulf states. They also discuss the Fáilte Ireland attempt to get us all to take more short holiday breaks in Ireland. And they focus on Phil Hogan's bid for a new big UN gig.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by John Lee and Danny McConnell to discuss Sinn Féin's prospects in the Dublin Central by-election, its position on Ukraine, Mary Lou McDonald's memories of Brendan 'Bik' McFarlane, and how cost-of-living issues may give SF its strongest opportunity to make a mark on the government politically. Also, rent reforms and house building, Ireland's defence readiness for the EU presidency, and reaction to the Greens victory in the British by-election.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by Áine Kerr and Shane Coleman to discuss the importance of SNAs in our schools and our government's mishandling of potential changes. Why is the government finding it so hard to come up with ways of protecting our children from harmful social media? Outrage at the planning refusal for a new building for the Rotunda Hospital on Parnell Square, is there anything to be said in favour of the planning board's decision? Was Sinn Féin invited to the White House or not before it said it wasn't going?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Fine Gael TD John Deasy and Irish Daily Mail Columnist Brenda Power join Matt to discuss the wider implications for Irish emigrants to the US of the Seamus Culleton case. Why is Ireland soft on the murderous Iranian Regime? Sinn Féin's positions on Iran and Ukraine assessed. The rise of the Social Democrats: Is it sustainable and at whose expense? Michael Healy Rae and his Airbnb victory. Is the IFA biting off more than it can chew with its Bord Bia campaign? The latest Garda Scandal: Is there adequate justice for Margaret Loftus? Kier Starmer's survival. And where Ireland will play football against Israel.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny McConnell and John Lee examine the consequences of Ireland’s repeated failure to deliver flood defences and critical infrastructure. They ask whether the Social Democrats under Holly Cairns are emerging as a credible alternative to Sinn Féin on the left, assess the runners and riders in the upcoming Dublin by-election, the continued fallout from the government’s ‘incoherent’ stance on Mercosur, and the performance of social media executives at the Oireachtas.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Storm Chandra wreaked havoc on the country, Shane Coleman and Lise Hand discuss who is really responsible for making sure appropriate weather warnings are given. Fianna Fáil's slump in the polls and the threat to Micheál Martin's leadership. Ivana Bacik's calls for the Taoiseach not to visit the White House on St. Patrick's Day. The soapbox politics of the Bord Bia and Brazilian beef situation. A salute to Mary Robinson and other leading Irish women for St. Brigid's Day. And the resurgence of protest songs in response to troubling world events.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Donald Trump pushes his Board of Peace idea, would it be wise for Ireland to join and if we say no, could the squeeze be put on us? John Deasy and Brenda Power join Matt, and John outlines his personal dealings with the US President during his time as an Irish government envoy. Is Ireland ready for a 'MIGA' movement, and why would the US Ambassador to Ireland go to a fringe conference? Is the Mercosur European Parliament vote something that Trump would have wanted? The Board of Peace: Is it a Trump commercial venture for Gaza? Also, Gráinne Seoige's experience of fake photos on the internet, can her terrible experience lead to real action, or are we too scared of losing the Meta tax revenues? And finally, why is the M4 bus corridor not open?Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by Danny McConnell and John Lee to unpack the continuing Mercosur fallout inside the government and with the EU. The foreign challenges for Micheál Martin in 2026. All talk but what action about Grok AI? The politics and economics of the data centres. Paschal Donohoe, the World Bank, and the question of an additional €10 million. The merits of politicians reading books. Jim O'Callaghan's immigration crackdown. And the protection of sources by journalists from the courts.Brought to you by The Greenman Group.PTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt for a wide-ranging discussion starting with the Irish government's position on the Mercosur deal. What Micheál Martin was up to in China, and how the Chinese relationship will impact our existing relationships with the US and the EU. Why we need to worry about more people than Trump. What is our government going to do about Elon Musk's Grok and the 'nudification' of photos? Jim O'Callaghan's sneaky and dangerous attack on journalism. Political action on road safety. And finally, Mary Lou McDonald's interview about the place of trans people in Ireland, debated. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lise Hand and Shane Coleman join Matt to assess the many newspaper interviews given by Tánaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris over the Christmas period. They discuss the threats to his family's safety, his likely tax and spend position as finance minister, the controversies caused by his comments on homelessness and migration, and his plans for a possible crackdown on social media anonymity. They look at MAGA monster Steve Bannon's threats to establish a political movement in Ireland, and they discuss foreign trips to China and other countries by Taoisigh and presidents.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and Sinn Féin coalesce to save fox hunting. Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt to discuss left unity and who Sinn Féin will really end up in government with. Also, what Simon Harris's replacement of Paschal Donohoe in Finance really means. The impact of tariffs and the IDA's success in still attracting investment to Ireland. Will the UK ever rejoin the European Union in a reverse Brexit? And John tells tales of a private dinner in Doonbeg with Donald Trump.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt to discuss not the gang who couldn't shoot straight, but the gang who couldn't even get a shot off, and yet Micheál Martin is injured, but is it all self-inflicted because of his Jim Gavin gaffe?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt to discuss the outrage caused by the videos of adults returning to live in their parents' homes, the politics of making people pay for their blister packs of medicines, entering the US if you have a social media history, Ireland and Jim O'Callaghan's position on changes at the European Convention on Human Rights, the long awaited Fianna Fáil presidential debacle report - has Micheál Martin timed it's release perfectly? And the continuing stand-off between Kenny Jacobs and the DAA.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A rowdy gathering for our 100th episode as Matt, Lise Hand, and Shane Coleman dissect: RTÉ's Eurovision departure and Ireland's defence against anti-semitism. Defending Ireland while remaining neutral. The TDs who need to get a grip of themselves. How our tax revenues should be spent, and our vulnerability to losing the money. The Government's Accelerating Infrastructure plan. And the traffic nightmare and the M50 logjam.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Should Micheál Martin rein in the foreign travel? The Government's change of stance on immigration, why IPAS centres and work permits need to be treated separately. MetroLink: Do the objectors deserve any sympathy? The contentious suggestion to rename Dublin Airport, Verona Murphy's unwise photo op with Sinn Féin, and Gerry Hutch's developing political campaign.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Paschal Donohoe's departure from government and his performance in office assessed, how badly will Fine Gael miss him? Has Simon Harris done the right thing in taking on Paschal's old job? Will Gerry Hutch run in the by-election, and what are his chances of winning? Ireland-U.S. relations: What should our government's approach be in the face of Trump's aggression?Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt is joined by Newstalk Breakfast host and former political editor Shane Coleman, and by journalist and former Dáil correspondent Lise Hand to discuss the government's new housing initiative. They also reflect on President Connolly's inauguration, talk about Billy Kelleher's carefully worded internal dissent in Fianna Fáil, and the status of the inquiry into the Jim Gavin presidential debacle.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Micheál Martin teetering on the edge as his leadership of Fianna Fáil comes up for debate, for how much longer can he hang on? Guests Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt for a spirited debate about the Taoiseach's future and just who will move against him? And what are Jim O'Callaghan's credentials to replace him? Also, why the 'Future Forty' doesn't inspire confidence.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and weekly bonus episodes, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] Matt:https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The impact of the high number of spoiled votes in the election for future politics assessed, and how it will impact on migration policy. Is the left primed for power? Micheál Martin's tenuous grip on Fianna Fáil appraised, and our first musings on Jim O'Callaghan's (and others') suitability to replace him.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Assessment of Catherine Connolly's (assumed) victory and how she did it, how Fine Gael fell down, why Heather Humphreys was a poor candidate, why so many people didn't vote, and why Micheál Martin's Jim Gavin disaster may prove fatal for his leadership. Also, Matt's idea for a new way to appoint the president, which Ivan derides.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ivan as a footnote to presidential history, why Catherine Connolly is about to win and how heavily Heather Humphreys might lose. The likely fallout in Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil, and whether Sinn Féin has missed a trick. Paul Murphy's legal action assessed. And how the result of the election may reflect societal division and provoke real change.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The circumstances of Jim Gavin's presidential exit examined, and the consequences for Micheál Martin's leadership of Fianna Fáil. When will Jim O'Callaghan seize the crown? The Budget: Why nothing for workers, and the overall expansion of government spending debated.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our duo deliver a detailed pre-budget examination of what's likely to happen next Tuesday, from income tax measures to VAT on hospitality and apartments to the overall state of the government finances, changes to the tax treatment of ETFs and R&D for corporates, and the likely increases in social welfare. Also, the presidential race: who really won the first TV debate, Jim Gavin's social media gaffes, Catherine Connolly's convicted friend, and the presidential week analysed.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt and Ivan meet former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for a wide-ranging discussion based on the publication of his book 'Speaking My Mind'.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How Ivan bought into the Jarlath Burns for president rumour, what Heather Humphreys must surrender in her bid for the Áras, Jim Gavin and the farm gate, the failure of the independents to get on the ballot, the bizarre DAA situation with Kenny Jacobs, and Ivan's post Ploughing Championships briefing.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As Matt and Ivan deplore political violence in the United States, they assess the seriousness of the threats to Simon Harris and others. The presidential updates - How Jim Gavin won the Fianna Fáil nod and finds that he's senior hurling now, plus news on the other candidates. Ivan bemoans our forestry failures. How Jeffrey Epstein has ended Peter Mandelson's career finally. And Ivan looks forward to pending changes in our planning laws to stop vexatious individuals. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern can't escape his past and crashes out of the presidential race. Jim Gavin's advantage over Billy Kelleher for the Fianna Fáil nomination assessed. Does Heather Humphrey have a disability issue to overcome? Inside the Bob Geldof interest, and Ivan's surprise at weatherwoman Joanna Donnelly's presidential ambitions, more on Catherine Connolly and Alan Kelly, and the need for Sinn Féin to make a decision quickly. Also, the objections to Dublin's essential wastewater treatment plant, and Matt advocates for school secretaries and caretakers.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former army man and GAA legend Jim Gavin shoots for the presidency with Fianna Fáil, AK-47 Alan Kelly takes aim at Catherine Connolly, Sinn Féin appears to lack the ammunition if Mary Lou won't run, and some independents risk their feet. Also, a tribute to Pat Kenny's radio tenure.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the slow bicycle race gathers momentum, could the presidential election turn into a referendum on the performance of Simon Harris? Heather Humphreys' chances assessed, Mairead McGuinness' departure explained, and the prospects of all the other non-Fine Gael contenders are examined.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The job facing the new Garda Commissioner assessed, with retirements threatening to outnumber new recruits. The financial perils of running for president versus the rewards. How dependent are we on FDI? How we can make a mess of it and how we can do more to help our own businesses. Ivan laments the closure of Thurles racecourse and reports back on his visit to England and Wales.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cooper-615a1317https://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-yates-7b4b468ahttps://www.instagram.com/pathtopower.podcast/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump's 15% tariffs and the extra dangers to our pharma and semiconductor exports, how the national finances and the forthcoming budget will be affected. And Dermot Desmond's views on abandoning the Metro are assessed. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An assessment of the individual performances of The Taoiseach, The Tánaiste, and each Government Minister. Ivan picks out the best of the Juniors, and Matt & Ivan also take a look at the performance of the opposition parties.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dancer Michael Flatley, medic Tony Holohan, and academic Deirdre Heenan and their presidential prospects assessed. The Summer Economic Statement dissected: Should the hospitality sector get a VAT break? The National Development Plan broken down: Is it enough despite the hundreds of billions involved and will it actually get delivered? An example of why we are not really serious about solving our housing crisis, Michael O'Leary's Metro dismissal, and Ivan supports AIB's return to the office demand.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ivan reads the economic tea leaves and blames government pessimism for falling consumer confidence in spending, the disaster of the falling number of new home building starts, why a principled position on Palestine may become an economic problem for us, and more on Mary Lou for president and the chances of Catherine Connolly.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Matt and Ivan have a spirited debate about the chances of Mary Lou McDonald appealing to enough voters to win the Presidency, they assess what the other parties can do in response. But before that, Jim O'Callaghan's legal damages welcome climedown, smaller apartment sizes and the Hines development at Clonliffe, and Trump's pharma tariffs. Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A lengthy debate on who should pay for third-level education and who gets the benefit. Ivan takes issue with Matt for enjoying the hospitality of the US Embassy, why insurance awards may be going up and who's to blame for higher insurance prices, the tears of Rachel Reeves and what caused them, and a tribute to Brother Kevin Crowley.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ivan praises the political impact of Trump's Iran moves: Matt disagrees. Also, Dublin Airport update, the do-nothing government, the expansion of the Civil service, union boss Owen Reidy gets in touch, alcohol labelling is delayed, Ireland's position on Israel and Gaza, and Ivan's assessment of where Sinn Féin are at and its presidential position.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a Path to Power special, Matt is joined by veteran US-based Irish journalist Marion McKeone to discuss Donald Trump's gamble with his MAGA base by attacking Iran, why MAGA doesn't want American wars, and the influence of the Jewish lobby on political and military support for Israel. And, they go beyond politics to analyse the Jeff Bezos wedding in Venice, and talk about the Kennedy's because of the Ryan Murphy TV show about the death of JFK Jr, his wife Carolyn and her sister Lauren. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel and Iran: Where Ireland and the EU stand, and where Trump stands with his MAGA base. How real is the National Economic Dialogue? Is Paul Murphy the Irish Greta Thunberg? Scandals and further investigations into nursing homes: the public vs. private battle. From health to planning: Paul Reid's new gig, and tributes to Journalist Phillip Molloy and Lord Henry Mount Charles.Brought to you by Greenman OPENPTP+To enjoy early access, ad-free listening and a weekly bonus episode, sign up at pathtopowerpodcast.comGet in touch: [email protected] the hosts:Matt: https://twitter.com/cooper_mhttps://www.instagram.com/mattcooperlastword/Ivan: https://www.instagram.com/officialivanyates/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.