The Indo Daily

As Bill and Alison Chawke waited outside courtroom number three in Limerick Circuit Court on Tuesday morning, their mood appeared upbeat. However, a short time later, as Judge Fiona O’Sullivan started to talk about prison time, the reality of their situation dawned on them, and shock quickly became visible on their faces. The son and daughter of prominent publican Charlie Chawke were in court for a vicious assault they launched on two men at the Dunraven Arms Hotel in Adare, Co Limerick, in November 2023. Both victims were left with physical and mental injuries. The Chawkes own some of the country’s best-known pubs, with Bill and Alison heavily involved in the family business, and seemingly highly respected in their industry. And yet today, mother-of-three Alison and recent newlywed Bill find themselves behind bars. So, what does it all mean for the Chawke empire? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Kevin Doyle is joined by Catherine Fegan, special correspondent with the Irish Independent, and by senior journalist at the Irish Independent, Sean Pollock to discuss the trial and the fallout that now awaits one of Ireland’s most successful families. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The murder of firebrand politician Ann Widdecombe has sent shockwaves through the British establishment, prompting fresh debate around the safety of public figures.   An unapologetic straight-talking stateswoman, Widdecombe served as an MP for 23 years, and was famed for controversial outspoken views on abortion, gay rights and women’s issues.   Despite her divisive nature, Widdecombe managed to win fans away from the political arena thanks to a memorable run on Strictly Come Dancing and other unlikely forays into reality TV.  Now, as the investigation into her murder evolves into a terrorism probe, serious questions are being asked of the authorities in Britain, not least by Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who called attention to the need for more money to be spent on security for public figures just days before Widdecombe’s death.   On Tuesday evening, counter-terrorism police in the UK stated that the murder of Ann Widdecombe is officially recognised as a “targeted attack” while noting that it has “not been declared as a terrorist incident”.  On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by TRT World presenter Enda Brady to discuss the latest on the investigation, and to look at the sometimes contradictory life of Ann Widdecombe and an increasingly threatening climate for politicians.  The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The boyfriend of murdered American mother-of-one Jamey Carney has been detained in Jordan, the Irish Independent understands. Ahmad al-Saqar is a person of interest to the garda investigation into the murder of Ms Carney. The dramatic development came as gardai have made rapid progress in their murder probe with significant forensic, CCTV and witness evidence obtained. Sources indicated that the 28 year old man has been detained in Jordan over the past 48 hours. Ireland does not have an extradition treaty with Jordan and no Irish arrest warrant has been issued in respect of the Killarney murder as yet. The detention was made by Jordan’s Public Security Directorate. The whereabouts of Ahmad Al-Samar, had been unknown. He is “a person of interest” for gardaí as he spent time with Ms Carney between July 4-6. Gardai now believe the Jordanian was with Ms Carney on Monday evening, the night she was fatally assaulted. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RTÉ look to be further floundering in their finances. Director General Kevin Bakhurst appeared before the Public Accounts Committee last week looking for extra funding from Government. The reason? “Volatility” in TV licence-fee revenue. Over one in five households now do not own a TV, which means the broadcaster needs an extra €54.79m this year from the exchequer, up from €41.3m last year. But as the number of households without a television continues to grow, is the licence fee becoming a relic of a bygone era? And in a world of streaming services, social media and endless digital content, can RTÉ survive today's media landscape? On today’s The Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by Irish Independent Technology Editor, Adrian Weckler, Entertainment correspondent for the Irish Independent, Melanie Finn and political reporter at the Irish Independent, Aisling Moloney to examine the future of the TV licence, and whether the broadcaster is facing yet another financial reckoning. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism correspondent for the Irish Independent, Melanie Finn and political reporter at the Irish Independent, Aisling Moloney to examine the future of the TV licence, and whether the broadcaster is facing yet another financial reckoning. ­The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Electric scooters were once seen as the future of urban transport, but growing safety concerns are changing the conversation. Todays episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The Big Tech Show, as Adrian Weckler is joined by former Fine Gael TD Noel Rock to discuss whether electric scooters have become too dangerous for Irish roads. They examine rising injury numbers, gaps in enforcement, why existing rules are failing, and whether tighter regulation is enough or if Ireland should consider banning them altogether. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s fight week, and Conor McGregor has come out swinging. ‘The Notorious’ finally steps back into a UFC octagon this weekend for a main event match-up, and while some are questioning his physical prowess, his microphone game remains as brash as ever. Sat in front of the media once more, McGregor espoused his divine beliefs, proclaimed his innocence and once again weighed in on Ireland’s immigration debate. This weekend’s event will have plenty of eyes on it, but should Conor McGregor be allowed fight at all? Or granted a platform of this size to spread his views, for that matter? And why are American fans and fixtures so happy to assist in his rehabilitation tour? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Dave Hanratty is joined by sports and entertainment journalist Andy McCarroll to look at a much-criticised return to the octagon. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chief suspect in the murder of American mother-of-one Jamey Carney (43) flew from Ireland to Turkey within hours of her death. ­ It has now emerged that the 28-year-old man got a bus from Killarney to Dublin within three hours of the death of the New York native. ­ He then booked a last-minute flight from Dublin Airport to Istanbul in Turkey on Tuesday morning - and is now believed to be working with contacts to cross from Turkey to either Syria or Jordan. The man is understood to have extensive contacts in the region. ­ Today on this Indo Daily Extra, Tessa Fleming is joined by Irish Independent southern correspondent Ralph Riegel, to hear the latest developments. ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jeffrey Donaldson scandal has taken another turn, with the former DUP leader now set to face a fresh investigation. New allegations have emerged of a sexual assault involving a woman at the party's Westminster offices. More details have also come to light about Donaldson's conduct throughout his years in politics as former colleagues speak out about his inappropriate behaviour. Is it open season on Jeffrey Donaldson where every rumour is fair game? And why has it taken until now for people to break their silence? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Kevin Doyle is joined by Sam McBride, Northern Ireland editor of the Belfast Telegraph, to discuss a seemingly ever-expanding list of accusations. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reeling from an investigation into his finances, Nigel Farage has gone on the offensive. ­ In a public address on Tuesday afternoon, the Reform UK leader announced his intention to resign as an MP in order to trigger a by-election that he intends to contest. ­ “This will be a people versus the establishment by-election,” Farage said. “It's a chance to stick two fingers up to the entire establishment, to frankly tell them where to go,” he added, noting that he will “fight to win” and “continue the political revolution that Reform has started” in the UK. ­ The move has been heavily criticised by opponents, with outgoing prime minister Keir Starmer labelling it a “desperate stunt” and stating that Farage is “up to his neck in sleaze”. ­ So, can Farage managed to turn the accusations against him into a conspiracy and turn the raging tide to his advantage? ­ And who is ‘Posh George’, the man whose association with Farage has caused such media scrutiny and public pressure? ­ On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Kevin Doyle is joined by TRT World presenter Enda Brady to ask if Farage is redefining the idea of politics being a risky business. ­ The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project.  You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They flaunted Ferraris, private jets and a billionaire lifestyle. ­ The Cartu brothers are accused of running one of the world's largest alleged investment frauds while projecting a glamorous lifestyle online. ­ But the story doesn't end in the US. ­ Katie Byrne and Eamon Dillon trace the companies, assets and investigations that connect Ireland to the case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than 30 years, the name George Gibney has haunted Irish swimming. ­ The former national swimming coach left Ireland in the 1990s after a prosecution against him was halted, leaving many of those who said they were abused by him without the day in court they had waited for. Today, after decades of investigations, legal battles, failed hopes and unanswered questions, Gibney has been convicted of sexually abusing young girls more than 50 years ago. ­ This afternoon, a Central Criminal Court jury found the 77-year-old guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault and one count of attempted rape. He had already pleaded guilty to five further counts of indecent assault at the outset of the trial. He will be sentenced later this month. ­ Host: Kevin Doyle, Guest: Chalkie White ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Creative and hard-working, Charles Self moved to Ireland in the late 1970s when he was poached from the BBC for an enviable role at RTÉ. As the lead set designer on the then-thriving Late Late Show, Self was able to mould the flagship programme to his creative vision. Popular with his colleagues and in line for a pay rise, Self was flying high, until his life was tragically cut short in 1982 following a violent and frenzied attack that had major implications for Ireland’s gay community. On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Katie Byrne is joined by Sunday Independent journalist Liam Collins to look back at the brutal, still unsolved murder of Charles Self. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is Mark Zuckerberg really? Is he the awkward, robotic tech billionaire seen in public, or something very different behind closed doors? Todays Indo Daily is brought to you by The Big Tech Show, as Sheera Frenkel, Pulitzer Prize winning New York Times journalist and co-author of the bestselling An Ugly Truth: Inside Facebook's Battle for Domination, joins Adrian to examine the Meta chief's personality, upbringing and leadership style. From his privileged childhood and early coding obsession to Facebook's move fast culture, Zuckerberg's rise is a story of relentless ambition, fierce control and extraordinary resilience. Why you can trust the Irish Independent: learn about our editorial guidelines and AI useSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Jeffrey Donaldson was found guilty last week of 18 child sex offences including rape, the carefully constructed image of a clean-living, evangelical Presbyterian was finally fully shattered after two years of horrifying revelations. As he awaits sentencing, Donaldson’s double life has been further exposed, with fresh damaging allegations and testimonies emerging at pace. Meanwhile, serious questions are being asked – what did people know, and why are some only now breaking their silence? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Tessa Fleming is joined by Belfast Telegraph crime correspondent Allison Morris to discuss Jeffrey Donaldson’s life of deception and contradiction. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Riad Bouchaker has been found guilty of all eight counts against him, including the attempted murder of three children on Parnell Square East in 2023. The attacks sparked riots across Dublin city and left one girl with a devastating, life-long brain injury. The jury spent about five hours over two days considering their verdicts, which were unanimous in relation to each count. Bouchaker, of no fixed address, had denied the attempted murder of two girls and one boy, and assault causing serious harm to creche worker Leanne Flynn, at Parnell Square East in Dublin City on November 23rd, 2023.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, 38-year-old convicted rapist Nicholas Rossi died in a Utah hospital while under police custody. ­ Rossi (born Nicholas Alahverdian) operated under several aliases, including Arthur Knight, purportedly an orphan from Ireland. ­ He was first reported dead six years ago, with a Boston Globe obituary among the write-ups. But he wasn’t actually deceased. He was alive and very much aware that he was on the FBI’s radar. ­ Having fled to Scotland, Rossi became the subject of an Interpol Red Notice and increased media attention, with interviews and identities colliding as his web of lies was exposed. ­ “Nicholas Rossi was clever, but then he was very stupid in other ways,” says investigative journalist and podcaster Jane MacSorley, who has worked on the story since the beginning of 2022. ­ On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by MacSorley, who details her own encounter with Nicholas Rossi and explores the numerous complications and contradictions of his life. ­ The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Putin's war. Drones in Irish skies. The threat of cyber-attacks. As Ireland takes the helm of the EU, Micheál Martin faces six months of added pressure. Is this moment a golden opportunity, or a poisoned chalice? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What do you get when you gather tech billionaires, political insiders and some of the world's most powerful people behind closed doors? ­ The answer is Dialog,  an invitation-only network so secretive that, if you've never heard of it, that's probably by design. Co-founded by billionaire investor Peter Thiel, the man behind PayPal and the controversial data company Palantir, Dialog is bringing its annual gathering to a plush Wicklow resort in August. The agenda includes preparing for World War III, building a cult, and a session simply titled, "How's Your Sex Life?" So what exactly is Dialog, who is Peter Thiel, and why has this event caused so much controversy? ­ Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guests: Darragh Nolan and Kim Bielenberg We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jeffrey Donaldson has begun his new life in Maghaberry Prison. Donaldson and his wife, Eleanor, are set to be stripped of their honours. The former MP and DUP leader, Jeffrey Donaldson was found guilty of 18 child sex offences on Monday - including one count of rape. The 63-year-old had pleaded not guilty, but the jury of seven men and five considered its verdicts for ten hours over three days, believing his victims. His wife Eleanor Donaldson was found to have committed the acts relating to offences of aiding and abetting following a trial of the facts. This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The BelTel, as Allison Morris joined Ciarán Dunbar to talk about what she couldn’t report while the trial was ongoing. This podcast was originally published on Tuesday July 23rd 2026.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In episode 3 of Veronica, we follow the journalists' final moments, as John Gilligans plan to murder her, swings into action on Dublin’s Naas road. Her murder, 30 years ago today, left a nation shocked, and in no doubts just how dangerous Ireland’s gangland had now become. Kevin Doyle speaks to Jimmy Guerin, Paul Williams and Mary Wilson, about the trials that took place, and Veronica’s lasting legacy. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Episode 2 of Veronica, John Gilligan's empire is booming and Ireland's criminal underworld is growing richer by the day. As the State struggles to respond, Veronica Guerin follows the money, exposing the wealth and power behind gangland's biggest figures, and putting herself on a collision course with dangerous enemies. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

30 years ago, Veronica Guerin was shot dead on the outskirts of Dublin. Only days later, she was due to speak at a conference entitled Dying to tell a Story: Journalists at Risk. Her murder still remains one of the defining moments in modern Irish history. Over the next 3 days on The Indo Daily, we present: Veronica – Murdered in search of the truth. Host Kevin Doyle speaks to her family and former colleagues to examine the life she lived, the reporting that made her a target, and the criminal world she exposed. In episode 1, as Veronica Guerin makes her name at the Sunday Independent, a new breed of organised crime is taking hold in Ireland. The rise of ‘Factory’ John Gilligan sets the stage for a story that will end in tragedy. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thirty years after the murder of Veronica Guerin, Kevin Doyle retraces her final years, speaking to those who knew her best and examining the criminal underworld that made her a target. Episode 1, out Wednesday June 24th.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It started with what looked like a routine query from a politician to a council office. In 2019, staff at Wexford County Council believed they were dealing with a standard request made by then councillor Fionntán Ó Súilleabháin on behalf of a constituent, and so they responded as normal. But alarm bells went off four years later when a woman contacted the council asking why her confidential records had been released without her knowledge or consent. The man who received the files is a Sinn Féin activist and the brother of a Provisional IRA bomber. After conducting an investigation, the council admitted there was a breach of personal data and formally apologised to the woman in question. Ó Súilleabháin, now a Sinn Féin TD, is now facing a legal battle following the data breach, with party leader Mary Lou McDonald appearing to stand by him. On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Katie Byrne is joined by Irish Independent Ireland Editor Fionnán Sheahan who details his exclusive investigation. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson has been found guilty of 18 historical sex offences against two women when they were children. ­ A jury at Newry Crown Court convicted him of one count of rape, 13 counts of indecent assault and four counts of gross indecency. His wife Eleanor Donaldson has been found to have committed the acts relating to offences of aiding and abetting following a trial of the facts. Jeffrey Donaldson (63) had pleaded not guilty to the alleged offences, which spanned a period between 1985 and 2008. ­ Complainants A and B both gave evidence at the trial, alleging they were abused as children. This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The BelTel, as Ciaran Dunbar is joined by, Allison Morris, Sam McBride and Suzanne Breen. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Another British Prime Minister is heading for the exit. Just days after insisting he would stay and fight, Keir Starmer has announced his resignation, bringing a sorry end to a premiership that lasted just two years. With his only serious rival out of the running, Andy Burnham now appears to have a clear path to Downing Street. Enda Brady joins Fionnan Sheahan to discuss how Burnham could approach the Irish relationship, handling Trump and defeating Nigel Farrage's reform? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Graham Norton is best known for conjuring up a warm and convivial vibe as he welcomes a parade of A-list talent to his BBC chat show. ­ Lately, however, the acclaimed entertainer has confessed to feelings of “very significant alarm, distress and anxiety”. ­ The source of his anguish? A social media account seemingly dedicated to spreading false information about him, one that Norton is currently seeking to uncover. Following a recent victory against Meta in a Californian court, Norton can now proceed with his investigation, though it’s unlikely to be an easy task. ­ His is not the only well-known face being used as an avatar for disinformation, especially as artificial intelligence continues to evolve by the second.  ­ Just last week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin issued a warning to the public about an AI-generated video of him purporting to promote a financial scam. ­ So, can we trust what we see online anymore? Or is the ‘fake news’ genie out of the bottle? ­ On this episode, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Irish Independent technology editor Adrian Weckler, and by Irish Independent senior business journalist John Mulligan, to look at Graham Norton’s case and an increasingly deceptive digital landscape. ­ The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week one of the states most notorious sex offenders Bill Kenneally died in prison. Back in March 2024, The Indo Daily published an episode speaking to Colin Power, a survivor of Kenneally’s abuse. He described to Fionnán Sheahan how one of Ireland’s most infamous paedophiles refused to accept he ruined the lives of his victims. The following podcast does not reference Kenneally's death this week. *A warning, today's episode contains details of child sexual abuse which listeners may find upsetting* We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Activist Ali Hewson is among several Killiney residents objecting to plans for a new luxury apartment complex near her home. ­ The wife of U2’s Bono says the development “goes against the natural character” of the affluent south Dublin suburb. ­ But Hewson is far from the first high-profile figure to weigh in on what gets built nearby. ­ From celebrities to senior politicians, planning objections can quickly become contentious. ­ So where do we draw the line between legitimate local concerns and the urgent need for housing? ­ On today’s The Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by Irish Independent multimedia reporter Darragh Nolan to examine the planning battles that made headlines and who gets a say in what is built.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Kinahan cartel lieutenant Sean McGovern was led away from the Special Criminal Court last week to begin a 24-year prison sentence, he took the time to wink in the direction of his watching relatives. An act of defiance in the face of a crushing defeat, or a simple personal gesture? In any event, the drugs empire that McGovern worked for is falling down, one foundation at a time. At the top of this decaying tower sits Daniel Kinahan, currently in police custody in Dubai. The clock has been ticking for quite some time, but finally it seems like a day of reckoning is now dawning. But what of those left behind in the sunshine of Dubai and the shadow of Daniel Kinahan – particularly the wives and girlfriends? And what kind of conditions should Kinahan expect to experience should he wind up serving a lengthy prison sentence in Ireland? On this episode of The Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by Sunday Independent senior journalist Maeve Sheehan, Financial Times investigative reporter Miles Johnson and former prison officer David McDonald as they look to the future of a notorious outfit that may soon be consigned to the past. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics polices at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Katie Simpson was a talented showjumper whose short adult life centred around the equine industry she'd grown up in. So, when first responders collected her, unconscious and not breathing, from the care of Jonathan Creswell, who would eventually be charged with her murder, police initially believed his claim that he'd found her hanging at home. ­ Creswell died by suicide in the early days of his trial. Since then, Ms Simpson’s story has been covered at length in documentaries, podcasts, a Police Ombudsman’s report, an independent case review, and a book by Nicola Tallant. ­ Although a tragic death among the showjumping set is far from her regular Crime World beat, Tallant believes Simpson’s is a dark story with more yet to be told. ­ This episode contains material that may be distressing. Please take care while listening. ­ Host: Fionnán Sheehan | Guest: Nicola Tallant (author of Groomed: Coercion, Control and a Cold-blooded Murder, and investigations editor at the Sunday World) The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last weekend was a busy one for the US. On the sporting side alone, you had the kick-off of the 2026 Fifa World Cup, the decades-ending wait for a New York Knicks championship victory, and the small matter of MMA fighters bruising up the White House lawn. On the geopolitical front, there was the much-welcomed agreement of a peace deal between the US and Iran, three-and-a-half months after that conflict began. At the centre of it all, in one way or another, stood president Donald J Trump. Trump had his own personal milestone to celebrate on Sunday as he turned 80 years old. Performing any high-pressure job at the age of 80 is challenging enough, but Trump is the leader of the free world. Recent on-camera sightings might suggest that Trump is visibly withering, despite fiery pushback from his spokespeople and glowing medical reports from his medical team. We’re only midway through Trump 2.0, but is he still up to the job? And for those looking to travel to the US for short- or long-term stays, are Irish visitors still as welcome as Trump’s travel tsar so enthusiastically insists we are? The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can see our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After months of conflict, threats of escalation and fears of a wider war, there is now a breakthrough in the Middle East. The US and Iran say they've agreed a peace deal, but what's actually on the table, what happens next - and will it bring some relief for Irish consumers hit by ever-rising prices? Today on this Indo Daily Extra, Kevin Doyle is joined by The Economist's Middle East correspondent Gregg Carlstrom, to discuss who has won the war and can the peace last? The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2014, it looked like a picture-perfect dynasty.     Hotelier and multimillionaire Noel O’Callaghan stood beside his sons, Paul and Charles, at Royal Ascot. They were dressed in top hats and morning suits, celebrating a major win for their filly Anthem Alexander.    It was a moment that seemed to capture everything: wealth, success and a powerful family empire decades in the making.    But 12 years later, that image has been replaced by High Court filings, allegations of betrayal and a bitter row over control of a family fortune.    Noel O’Callaghan says he handed over an empire worth more than €400m to his sons out of love and trust. Now, he claims he has been frozen out of the business he created, claims strongly disputed by his sons.    On today’s Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by Irish Independent legal affairs editor Shane Phelan to look at how a family succession plan became one of Ireland’s most bitter corporate feuds. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We make financial decisions day in, day out. The items we buy, the money we save, the goals we set... It can be easy to forget, however, that some of the biggest life-changing money decisions might be hiding in plain sight. But what are they? And how do you make clear-eyed choices while listening to your head and your heart? This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast Money Talks, as Kel Galavan joins host Katie Byrne to unpack all this and more. Host: Katie Byrne | Guest: Kel Galavan (Author and expert) The content of this podcast is for information purposes and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation of any investment product. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once a merciless target for the MAGA movement, Hunter Biden has decided to put himself in the spotlight once again. ­ Now aged 56 and celebrating seven years of sobriety, Biden has recently become a social media sensation, taking to X with a renewed sense of purpose. ­ While some are speculating that he’s lining up a political run of his own, others are preaching caution that he may look to cynically monetise his newfound audience. The controversial son of former US president Joe Biden has spent most of the last few weeks conversing with those who wish him well and those who continue to hurl abuse his way. He even popped up on conservative commentator Candace Owens’ podcast, stunning people on both sides of America’s political divide by burying the hatchet. ­ Biden says he simply wants to start a conversation – but to what end? ­ On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Matt Viser, staff writer with The Atlantic, to dive into a most unlikely comeback and to ask whether Hunter Biden really is “the MAGA whisperer”. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the afternoon of November 23, 2023, in Dublin’s Parnell Square, three children were seriously injured following a stabbing attack in broad daylight. Riad Bouchaker (52) was arrested and charged in connection with the incident, and now, two-and-a-half years on, his trial is under way at the Central Criminal Court. Day one of proceedings saw the prosecution lay out its case against Mr Bouchaker, as well as hearing testimony from the mother of one of the children who was injured. She told the jury that her child is now in a wheelchair, is non-verbal and only able to answer yes or no questions by blinking. ­ On this Extra episode of The Indo Daily, host Tessa Fleming is joined by Irish Independent special correspondent Catherine Fegan, who takes listeners inside the courtroom. ­ The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Northern Ireland has seen serious race riots for the third year in a row. Masked men staged violent protests in number of areas, but the trouble was concentrated in the greater Belfast area, with homes set alight off the Crumlin Road and in east Belfast.  A Glider bus was set alight on the Newtownards Road and a police car was burned in Portadown. The disorder followed an attempted murder involving a knife in north Belfast on Monday night. A 30-year-old Sudanese man has been charged. Today's episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The BelTel. Ciaran Dunbar is joined by The Belfast Telegraph’s Visuals Editor Kevin Scott who was on the ground and Liam Tunney who was in court. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lee McDonnell began what would become a prolific and fearsome career in crime when he was just a teenager. McDonnell’s violent and reckless actions characterised him as a different breed of Irish criminal – one that stood sharply apart from his peers. He was fond of boosting his own notoriety and didn’t seem to fear any reprisal, going so far as to publicly mock the prison system during his many stints behind bars. He even managed a high-profile escape that resulted in a nationwide manhunt. In total, McDonnell built up over 140 convictions and was suspected of numerous other crimes, including two unsolved murders and a recent high-profile stabbing. Last weekend, his lust for chaos came to an end when he died suddenly at the age of 34 after being found unresponsive in a Garda holding cell. On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Irish Independent news and security correspondent Robin Schiller to profile the life and crimes of the late Lee McDonnell. The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder following a serious incident in north Belfast on Monday night.  Video posted to social media appears to show a man stabbing another man several times in the head with a knife. One man can be heard saying in the video: ‘He’s trying to cut his head off.’ The Belfast Telegraph understands police recovered a knife at the scene. The PSNI said this afternoon that the suspect’s nationality is Sudanese and “not Somalian as initially believed”. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has called the attack “sickening”, while DUP leader Gavin Robinson told the BBC Nolan Show the incident was “barbaric” and “medieval”. This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The BelTel. ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

His killing shocked the nation, cast a shadow over the peace process, and left a family searching for justice. On today's Indo Daily, Fionnán Sheahan and John Downing look back at the killing of Detective Garda Jerry McCabe, the political fallout, and why the case remains open three decades later.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jeffrey Donaldson trial has now entered its third week. Allison Morris, Crime Correspondent with The Belfast Telegraph joins Fionnán Sheahan to discuss the secret recordings, letters of 'repent' and WhatsApp's at centre of the high-profile trial. ­ Jeffrey Donaldson, former leader of The DUP, faces historic rape and indecency charges. Donaldson has pleaded not guilty to a total of 18 alleged offences. The charges span a time period between 1985 and 2008 and involve two alleged victims. ­ Eleanor Donaldson, from Dublinhill Road, Dromore, Co Down, denies several charges of aiding and abetting her husband’s alleged offending. She is subject to a trial of the facts after being ruled unfit to stand trial due to mental health issues.  ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was supposed to replace workers at speed. Instead, some of the world’s biggest companies are finding costly problems, poor results and frustrated customers.  This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast The Big Tech Show, as Adrian Weckler and JJ Clarke examine why firms such as Starbucks, Pizza Hut and Klarna are scaling back AI projects. They also discuss the warning from Pope Leo, who has criticised AI for threatening human dignity, work and genuine human judgement, as companies race to cut costs and automate jobs before the technology is truly ready. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2016, the Healy-Rae brothers sailed to a sensational electoral victory in Kerry. Between them, Michael and Danny secured a remarkable 38pc of the Kingdom’s vote, cementing the Healy-Rae brand as one of the most formidable forces in Irish politics. Their winning formula quickly became the stuff of legend: divide the county, direct voters to back each brother with No 1 and No 2, and waste no Healy-Rae vote. And it was a stunning success. Since then, the pair have been a constant presence in Irish political life. But now, tensions are surfacing and their differences over entering Government have spilled out into the open. So, is this the beginning of the end of the Healy-Rae dynasty? And is their kingdom now divided? On today’s Indo Daily, Tessa Fleming is joined by John Downing, political correspondent at the Irish Independent, and Jerry O’Sullivan, broadcaster with Radio Kerry, to unpack the fallout from one of Ireland’s most headline-grabbing political dynasties.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Summer is here, and thus so is Love Island. ­ The sun-kissed and famously amorous reality show has technically been around since 2005, but its revival in the last 11 years has made it a true household name – whether your household actually tunes in or not. ­ This year, Irish tongues are wagging thanks to the inclusion of a strapping young Galway man who has left both his teaching post and his county behind in search of fame, fortune, and, presumably somewhere in there, love. ­ Bleach blond Seán ‘Fitzy’ Fitzgerald has caused quite the stir, with some arguing that teachers are supposed to be role models and thus appearing on a raunchy entertainment extravaganza is very much not the message to hand down to young and impressionable souls. ­ For others, it’s just a bit of fun and a possible pathway to celebrity and endorsement deals. So, what should we make of Love Island in 2026? And indeed its associated controversies and tragedies to date? ­ On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Kevin Doyle is joined by Irish Independent multimedia reporter Deirdre Barry, and by broadcaster and content creator Fionnuala Jones, to examine if Love Island’s newest Irish star can make the grade and to look at the problematic pipeline that may await. ­ The Indo Daily is part of the Trust Project. You can view our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Stephen McCullagh will do at least 31 years of jail time before he is even considered for release.  32-year-old Natalie McNally had been 15 weeks pregnant when she was subjected to a violent attack and murdered at her home in Lurgan in December 2022.  The judge, Mr Justice Kinney, told McCullagh that he committed a “brutal senseless murder and planned it in remorseless detail.”  “The killing was cold blooded and calculated.”  McCullagh tried to pin the murder on Lewis Jones, Natalie’s ex-partner, after having set up a false alibi.   But the jury rejected that and found McCullagh guilty of the murder at Belfast Crown Court earlier this year.  Kurtis Reid was in court for the tariff hearing.   We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is mounting and the volume is only getting louder regarding the upcoming Uefa Nations League fixture between the Republic of Ireland and Israel. With the first of two games against Israel scheduled for late September, the Football Association of Ireland is running out of time to carry out the administrative duties required should they decide to bow out and accept the consequences. Recent days have brought on-field protests from fans and eloquent soundbites from pundits and players – perhaps most notably Seamus Coleman, who spoke of the difficulty that he and his colleagues find themselves in as the questions keep on coming. So, is playing this highly contentious match the only option? If it is, where will it take place and how will it unfold? And what are the repercussions if Ireland does indeed decide to abstain? On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Irish Independent senior sports correspondent Conor McKeon to examine a national discussion that has reached boiling point. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Despite an endless number of problems at home and overseas, Donald Trump and his United States of America are in a celebratory mood. ­ The occasion? Trump’s imminent 80th birthday, for one. ­ There’s also the small matter of the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence, or “Freedom 250”, if you’re so inclined. ­ Though the actual anniversary isn’t until July 4, the White House – or more specifically, its south lawn – will play host to the Ultimate Fighting Championship on June 14 with a card that isn’t quite what Trump promised some time ago. ­ Still, there will be plenty of morbid curiosity, if nothing else. ­ The event is estimated to cost the UFC around $60m (€52m), and it’s not expected to turn a profit. No big deal, the organisation and its CEO Dana White already have plenty of riches, and though White swears he isn’t political, he enjoys both a long-running friendship and professionally beneficial relationship with the leader of the free world. ­ But why is Trump so enamoured by the UFC, and the significantly more choreographed WWE, for that matter? And has he deliberately moulded himself in the image of an entertainment-focused modern-day gladiator? ­ On this episode of The Indo Daily, host Fionnán Sheahan is joined by freelance combat sports journalist Philip O’Connor and by the Irish Independent’s Dave Hanratty, to look ahead to the big brawl at the White House. ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your sex life is “normal”, this episode is for you. This episode of The Indo Daily is brought to you by our sister podcast Just Between Us with Jennifer Zamparelli. In this special listener Q&A episode, Jen is joined by sex educator and intimacy coach Grace Alice O’Shea to answer the questions people are often too embarrassed to ask out loud. From awkward body reactions to feeling undesired in a relationship, no topic is off limits. We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalism See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Daniela Klette is one of three members of the “third generation” of the notorious urban guerrilla Red Army Faction (RAF) who had been in hiding since the 1990s. We look at the terror campaign by Germany's Baader-Meinhof gang, whose members killed more than 30 people in the 1970s and 80s and ask if the organisation is having a resurgence? ­ Note: This podcast was originally published in March 2024. This week a German court sentenced Daniela Klette to 13 years in prison for her actions as part of the RAF. The podcast does not contain reference to this new update. ­ Host: Fionnán Sheehan. Guest: James Jackson. ­ We want to earn your trust and are members of the Trust Project. See our ethics policies at independent.ie/ourjournalismSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.