The MOTH NEWS Podcast

This week on MOTH News Live, we hear extraordinary audio from Seán Quinn's new podcast The Quinn Files.Quinn recounts a private conversation he says he had with then Taoiseach Brian Cowen during the crisis surrounding his business empire — including claims about what the Government knew about the financial position of his companies.We play the audio and ask: if Quinn's recollection is accurate, what does it tell us — and what questions still need answering?Also this week:Johnny Vedmore continues his investigation into Alan Merriman, founder of Elkstone, examining his appearance in correspondence released through the Epstein files, his business history and the relationship between Elkstone, Enterprise Ireland and Irish start-ups.We discuss the cases of Simon O'Donovan and Isobella Perrie Sullivan, both charged with explosives offences and both granted bail.Al asks whether we'd actually allow Tesla's Optimus humanoid robot into our homes as Elon Musk predicts public sales by the end of 2027.And then the darker side of AI: researchers working at the forefront of the technology are warning that superintelligence could pose an existential risk to humanity. How seriously should we take them?

Is Ireland really a weak link in Europe's defences, and should Irish journalists be campaigning for increased military spending? This week on MOTH News Live, Johnny Vedmore looks at recent commentary from Irish Independent journalist Fionnan Sheahan about the threat posed by Russia, Ireland's military vulnerability and the case for significantly increasing defence spending. We examine the argument itself — but also ask a different question: when a prominent political journalist starts advocating for a major change in government policy, where does journalism end and political advocacy begin? Also this week, the tables are turned on Keith Walsh. Johnny and Al interview Keith about his High Court proceedings against RTÉ, his years presenting Breakfast Republic while classified as a freelancer, the subsequent Department of Social Protection decision on his employment status and why he has now taken his former employer to court. Plus, we look at Enterprise Ireland's participation in the €3 million Full Health Medical investment led by Elkstone and the questions MOTH News has put to Enterprise Ireland and Full Health Medical about due diligence.

This week on MOTH News Live, Johnny Vedmore investigates Ireland's elite schools. Which schools have educated some of the country's most powerful figures — and do the friendships and networks formed there continue to matter in politics, business and public life?Keith Walsh shares part of his new interview with journalist and media critic Mic Wright, author of Breaking: How the Media Works, When It Doesn't, And Why It Matters. Using one of Irish broadcasting's most notorious editorial failures as a starting point, we ask what the mistakes of the media's past should teach us about trusting and questioning the news today.The full Mic Wright interview is available now on the MOTH YouTube channel.Al then looks at an extraordinary admission from lawyers representing Andrew and Tristan Tate: some of the luxury cars and imagery used to project their “uberwealthy” online lifestyle were rented or promotional. What does that tell us about the influencer economy — and the lifestyles being sold to young men online?And finally: PFAS and our food. Following testing of Tesco own-brand products, we examine what was detected, what the science actually tells us and what consumers need to know.MOTH NEWS LIVE — Friday 28 August | 11am

Keith Walsh sits down with journalist, author and media critic Mic Wright to talk about who really decides which stories become news, and which ones don't.Mic is the author of Breaking: How the Media Works, When It Doesn't, And Why It Matters, now out in paperback, and writes the media criticism newsletter Conquest of the Useless.The conversation begins with a surprising Irish connection: Alfred Harmsworth, the Dublin-born founder of the Daily Mail, and the man who helped transform popular journalism more than a century ago.From there, Keith and Mic explore how newspapers learned to capture mass attention, the political power of media owners, the relationship between journalists and politicians, bias and groupthink inside newsrooms — and what happens when the media simply gets a story wrong.And in an age when newspapers are competing with X, TikTok, YouTube and Facebook, have we really escaped the power of the old press barons, or have we simply replaced newspaper editors with algorithms?Keith Walsh in conversation with Mic Wright , author of Breaking: How the Media Works, When It Doesn't, And Why It Matters.

How Charlie Haughey Built a Network of PowerThis week on MOTH News Live, Johnny Vedmore looks back at the Ireland of Charles Haughey and asks how political access, business and influence became intertwined.We begin with the Taoiseach's constitutional power to nominate 11 senators and Haughey's 1987 decision to give one of those seats to a rising figure in the Irish bloodstock industry: John Magnier. Who else did Haughey bring into his circle, why did he choose them, and what does it tell us about how power operated in Ireland?Keith then looks at the horrific M9 crash that killed five teenagers, following another wrong-way motorway collision involving eight teenagers just seven days earlier. We'll hear Dr Niamh Lynch's argument that while responsibility ultimately rests with those involved, we also need to examine the circles around them: parents, Gardaí, youth justice, social media and society itself. How do children get this far into serious criminality before somebody manages to stop them?Finally, Al examines the restructuring of Diageo, where the workforce has fallen by almost 2,000 while the company continues to invest heavily in Guinness. If Guinness is booming, why are jobs disappearing?

Daniel Kinahan is back in Ireland, in custody, and apparently determined to tell his side of the story.Following his extradition from Dubai, we examine the extraordinary circumstances surrounding his return, his claims about corruption within Irish systems, and his decision to publicly state that he is "not suicidal".What exactly is Kinahan alleging? Why is he speaking now? And if he makes specific allegations about powerful people or institutions, should journalists investigate them — regardless of who is making the claims?Johnny Vedmore also takes us into a very different corner of Irish history, tracing the Hewson family — ancestors of U2 frontman Bono — and examining how members of the wider Hewson family became influential landowners in Ireland.Finally, following the latest arrest of Andrew and Tristan Tate, we examine the growing debate around the so-called manosphere.The Irish Government wants to counter its influence on young people. But why are teenage boys listening to figures like Andrew Tate in the first place? Are young men looking online for something they're not finding in mainstream culture? And can Ireland tackle misogyny without making ordinary boys feel that masculinity itself is the problem?Join Keith Walsh, Johnny Vedmore and Al for MOTH News Live.

This week on MOTH News Live, we examine a series of stories raising difficult questions about the future of Ireland—North and South.Following the discovery of military-grade Semtex near the border, the arrest of a trainee solicitor, and the political row over a decision to grant bail, Johnny Vedmore asks whether these are isolated events—or signs of deeper tensions that deserve closer attention.Keith Walsh then explores whether Ireland's political landscape is changing. Could recent events reshape relationships between the major parties? How are politics evolving on both sides of the border?We'll also bring you the latest developments in the Dundrum House Hotel/IPAS controversy and discuss what a new planning decision could mean for government accountability and the rule of law.Join Keith Walsh, Johnny Vedmore and Al as they look beyond the headlines and ask the questions others aren't asking.

This week on MOTH News Live, we ask whether Britain and Ireland are quietly accepting a new housing reality. A century ago, Dublin's infamous tenements became a symbol of poverty, overcrowding and social inequality. Today, as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) continue to grow across Britain and shared accommodation becomes increasingly common in Ireland, are there uncomfortable parallels with the past?We'll explore what HMOs are, why they've become so popular with landlords and investors, and ask whether today's housing crisis is creating a generation of working people who can no longer afford a home of their own.Also on this week's programme:💬 Cloudchatters & The Hidden Workforce Behind the Internet Millions of online conversations are happening every day,but who are people really talking to? We investigate the rise of companies like Cloudchatters, the growth of digital labour, and what it means for consumers and workers in an increasingly online world.💶 Google's €10 Billion Question Google says it contributed €10 billion to the Irish economy last year. Johnny Vedmore examines where that figure comes from, what "economic contribution" actually means, and whether these headline numbers tell the full story.💼 Does This Budget Really Deliver for Working People? Simon Harris says this year's Budget must deliver for working people. We ask what that promise means in practice and whether government policy is making a meaningful difference to the lives of ordinary workers.Join Keith Walsh, Johnny Vedmore and Al as they look beyond the headlines and ask the questions others aren't asking.

10 Reasons Ireland Is Asking Questions📺 STOP PAYING YOUR TV LICENCE?10 Reasons Ireland Is Asking QuestionsThis week on MOTH News Live, we tackle one of the biggest questions facing Irish media.RTÉ says public service broadcasting needs sustainable funding—but after years of controversy, governance failures and declining licence fee income, has public confidence been lost?Keith Walsh presents 10 reasons why more people are questioning the future of the TV licence, while also asking the other side of the debate: if not the licence, how should Ireland fund public service broadcasting?Johnny Vedmore joins the discussion to compare Ireland's debate with the ongoing arguments surrounding the BBC licence fee in the UK.Also on this week's programme:🔎 Jeffrey Epstein's Forgotten Irish VisitJohnny Vedmore examines Epstein's little-known visit to Dublin and Waterford in 1996 with Johnson & Johnson heiress Elizabeth Johnson. What do we actually know about the trip, and why has it received so little attention compared with later visits to Ireland? We'll separate established facts from unanswered questions.🥊 Conor McGregor: One Last Fight?Following another injury and defeat inside the Octagon, Al asks whether Ireland's most famous MMA fighter should attempt one final comeback—or whether it's time to step away from the sport for good. We'll discuss McGregor's legacy, his recent controversies and whether fans still believe he can compete at the highest level.As always, we'll be looking beyond the headlines and asking the bigger questions.

This week on MOTH News Live, we ask whether Northern Ireland has entered a new political era.Sinn Féin has brought forward legislation calling for the Irish Government to begin preparing for a possible united Ireland through a Citizens' Assembly and a Green Paper on constitutional change. The Government has rejected the proposal—but has the debate already moved into the mainstream?🎙️ Keith Walsh sits down with Demi Laverty, who was born just before the Good Friday Agreement to a Catholic father and Protestant mother. In a thoughtful and deeply personal conversation, she reflects on identity, growing up between two communities, education, mental health and why understanding the "why" behind Northern Ireland's past is essential if lasting peace is to endure.⚖️ We'll also discuss the continuing political fallout from the Jeffrey Donaldson conviction and what it means for confidence in political leadership and institutions.🕵️ Investigative journalist Johnny Vedmore joins the programme to discuss his latest investigation into the Cardiff protests, and we ask how power, identity and public trust continue to shape politics across these islands.As the Twelfth approaches, we ask:Has the conversation about Irish unity already changed?Can Northern Ireland have honest conversations about its past?And what does the future really look like?

This week on MOTH News Live:⚖️ The Noah Donohoe Inquest reaches its defining moment. After almost five months of evidence from 76 witnesses, expert testimony and detailed legal argument, the jury is considering its findings. If a verdict is returned before we go live, we'll break down exactly what it means. If deliberations continue, we'll explain what's happening, what the jury is being asked to decide, and what comes next for Noah's family.🚁 Manna, drones and the future of Irish innovation. Following Manna's decision to pause drone delivery operations in Ireland, Keith speaks exclusively to Seamus Doyle, Chair of Drone Action D15. We hear why residents fought back against drone deliveries, whether Ireland's planning system failed, and ask the bigger question: are we helping to build world-class companies only to watch them scale elsewhere?🤖 Oscar examines Meta, CPL and the hidden workforce behind AI. Reports about Irish-based contractors training artificial intelligence systems have raised serious questions about worker welfare, Big Tech and Ireland's growing role in the global AI industry.Throughout the programme we'll be asking one simple question:How do we balance innovation, accountability and public trust?

This week on MOTH News Live:🚁 Manna was once held up as one of Ireland's great startup success stories. Backed by investors and supported through Ireland's innovation ecosystem, the company promised to revolutionise drone delivery. But with questions now being raised about revenues, jobs, expansion plans and the future location of its operations, we ask a simple question:When Ireland helps build a company, who ultimately benefits?Keith, Oscar and Al examine the latest developments surrounding Manna, Bobby Healy, Enterprise Ireland and the wider issue of taxpayer-funded innovation.⚖️ Meanwhile, the Noah Donohoe Inquest is entering its final stage after five months of evidence. With the coroner now charging the jury, we discuss what happens next, what findings the jury can make, and whether the process has answered the questions that have surrounded Noah's death for more than six years.🤖 Oscar looks at disturbing reports involving Irish-based Meta contractors, where workers were allegedly required to generate extreme prompts involving suicide, child exploitation and harmful content as part of AI safety testing. What are the human costs of training artificial intelligence, and who is responsible for protecting the workers doing that job?💰 Plus, a wider discussion about Enterprise Ireland, Big Tech, AI, startup culture, public investment and whether Ireland is getting value from the companies it helps create.

The Noah Donohoe inquest has heard fresh evidence this week, raising new questions about events that continue to resonate across Northern Ireland almost six years later.At the same time, the Jeffrey Donaldson case continues to dominate headlines, with testimony bringing renewed focus not just on politics, but on the human impact of allegations of abuse and the people at the centre of the story.We’ll also examine Ireland’s push for tougher restrictions on children’s access to social media. Supporters argue the measures are necessary to protect young people online. Critics question whether such bans can work in practice and what they mean for personal freedoms. This week’s programme looks beyond the headlines and asks a simple question:When some of the biggest stories in the news still leave unanswered questions, where do we look for answers?

This week on MOTH News Live, we examine the latest evidence from the Noah Donohoe Inquest, where repeated claims of "I can't recall" from police witnesses have raised fresh questions about CCTV evidence, investigative procedures and the crucial first hours after Noah disappeared.We discuss:🚲 CCTV operator evidence and the race to track Noah's movements across Belfast📹 Questions around CCTV retrieval and investigative priorities⚖️ The evidence of Detective Constable Nick Johnston and repeated memory gaps during questioning🔍 Daryl Paul, Maria Nolan and what investigators were focused on while Noah was still missingPlus:🛡️ A separate Belfast safeguarding case involving a music tutor facing serious criminal charges currently before the courts, and what it tells us about safeguarding, institutions and positions of trust.📱 Oscar examines the rise of the Manosphere, online influencers and the growing impact of digital communities on young men.💻 Al looks at Pornhub, MindGeek's Irish operations, Grant Thornton's resignation as auditor, and the wider questions around corporate responsibility and accountability.At the heart of today's programme is one question:Who was paying attention?

“I HAD NO REASON TO BELIEVE ANYONE COULD BE IN THERE.”A PSNI constable has told the Noah Donohoe Inquest that the culvert where Noah’s body was eventually found was “not a priority” during the early search operation.This week:🚇 Why was the culvert not urgently prioritised?🌊 Tides, search assumptions & public trust⚖️ The Jeffrey Donaldson trial begins💼 Elkstone, investment money & Northern Ireland🚛 Fuel protests, builders & the realities of doing business in Ireland

New evidence at the Noah Donohoe Inquest focused on the storm culvert where Noah’s body was found — including testimony about unexplained finger tracking marks inside the tunnel that were reportedly never photographed.We’ll also examine expert evidence around the tides flowing into the culvert from Belfast Lough during the six days Noah was missing:🌊 new moon conditions🌊 strong spring tides🌊 repeated tidal movements inside the drain systemAs questions continue around process, documentation and institutional credibility, we ask:What happens when crucial evidence isn’t preserved — and public trust begins to weaken?Plus:🚔 Oscar looks at policing culture, misogyny and institutional silence following the latest sentencing of former Garda Paul Moody🕵️ A clip from Keith Walsh’s interview with Johnny Vedmore on Irish names, Nicole Junkerman and the Epstein Files📉 Al breaks down the latest from Jobbio and asks whether Manna is quietly pivoting away from Ireland toward the US

This week on MOTH News Live:⚖️ The latest developments from the Noah Donohoe Inquest — with new scrutiny around the storm drain search, confined-space risk assessments, and questions over how key search decisions were made.💸 RTÉ faces backlash after revelations that up to €850,000 linked to the distribution of The Late Late Toy Show Appeal charity funds could go toward consultants and administration costs. We ask: when people donate to children’s charities, where do they expect the money to go?🇬🇧 Oscar looks at the growing controversy surrounding the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery after a damning review raised concerns about leadership, finances, and effectiveness — despite tens of millions already spent.📉 Plus:Questions around Elkstone - are things falling apart?

⚖️ NOAH DONOHOE: SECRECY, SURVEILLANCE & THE STATEWhy are parts of the Noah Donohoe inquest happening behind closed doors?What is Public Interest Immunity (PII)?Why does secrecy around policing and intelligence carry such weight in Northern Ireland?And does secrecy protect trust… or damage it?Tomorrow on MOTH News Live:⚖️ The Noah Donohoe inquest & PII🤖 Peter Thiel, AI tribunals & the future of journalism👁️ Palantir, surveillance technology & predictive policing📱 Could future systems monitor protests, journalists & dissent?With Keith, Oscar & Al.A car bomb outside a Belfast police station.An arrest under the Terrorism Act.And renewed focus on dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland.In this episode, we take a closer look at the New IRA — who they are, what they want, and what recent attacks tell us about their capability and intent.We also bring you the latest developments from the Noah Donohoe inquest.This week’s evidence has again turned attention to key questions around the timeline, the movement of Noah’s belongings, and how the early investigation unfolded — raising difficult issues around trust, process, and unanswered questions.This isn’t just about two separate stories.It’s about confidence in institutions, stability in the North, and how the past continues to shape the present.🎙️ With Keith Walsh, Oscar & Al

Who Are The New IRA? + The Latest From The Noah Donohoe InquestA car bomb outside a Belfast police station.An arrest under the Terrorism Act.And renewed focus on dissident republican activity in Northern Ireland.In this episode, we take a closer look at the New IRA — who they are, what they want, and what recent attacks tell us about their capability and intent.We also bring you the latest developments from the Noah Donohoe inquest.This week’s evidence has again turned attention to key questions around the timeline, the movement of Noah’s belongings, and how the early investigation unfolded — raising difficult issues around trust, process, and unanswered questions.This isn’t just about two separate stories.It’s about confidence in institutions, stability in the North, and how the past continues to shape the present.🎙️ With Keith Walsh, Oscar & Al

RIGHT vs LEFT: FAKE NEWS Was the fuel protest in Ireland truly political — or was it reframed?In this episode, Keith Walsh, Oscar and Al examine how a protest rooted in cost-of-living pressure quickly became a debate about identity, ideology, and legitimacy.We explore whether cultural and political framing shaped public reaction — and whether that made it easier to isolate and contain a broad, economically driven protest.Also on today’s show:▪️ Latest developments from the Noah Donohoe inquest▪️ The story of whistleblowers — and what happens after they speak out▪️ A deeper look at how systems respond to pressure, both on the streets and from within▪️ A disturbing global investigation into online abuse networksThis isn’t just about left vs right.It’s about who defines the story — and what happens next.🎙️ With Keith Walsh, Oscar & Al

Who is Shawna Coxon? Inside Ireland’s protest responseFuel protests swept across Ireland in a matter of days, tractors on roads, blockades at key infrastructure, Garda intervention, and the Defence Forces deployed to restore movement.Now, as the situation begins to ease, the focus shifts.What actually happened, and how was it handled?In this episode, Keith Walsh, Oscar and Al break down the response to the protests, including the role of senior Garda leadership, the shift from protest to “illegal blockade,” and the model used to manage disruption.We’ll also examine the political fallout, the changing narrative, and what it all tells us about how the State responds when pressure builds.Plus:▪️ Internal government tensions following the vote of no confidence▪️ The Media Minister’s rapid reversal on reviewing protest coverage▪️ Voices from across the country reacting to the week that wasThis isn’t just about fuel. It’s about power, pressure and what happens next.

MOTH News SpecialFuel protests have escalated rapidly across Ireland, tractors on roads, blockades forming, clashes with Gardaí, and now the Defence Forces deployed to assist in clearing disruption.But this story isn’t just about rising fuel prices.It’s about pressure, and how the State responds when that pressure turns into protest.In this live MOTH News Special, Keith Walsh and Al break down everything that’s happened over the past week, from the first protests to today’s critical moment.We examine the Government’s response, the decision to deploy military support, and how Ireland compares to similar protests across the world.We’ll also take a step back to look at the system behind the response, from Ireland’s legal foundations to how law, order and protest intersect in moments like this.Plus, voices from across the country reacting in real time.This is a factual, grounded look at a fast-moving situation, and the question at the centre of it:Where does this go next?

Fuel protests are gathering pace across Ireland — with farmers, hauliers and transport operators warning of growing pressure on the roads and across the economy.Are these protests the start of something bigger?Today’s programme focuses on the rising cost of fuel, the response from Government, and whether more industries could follow as pressure builds.We’ll look at what’s happening on the ground, what’s driving the protests, and what it could mean for supply chains, construction, and everyday life.We also begin with a reminder of what we’ve learned so far from the Noah Donohoe inquest, ahead of proceedings resuming next week.And later, we examine the question of who is benefiting financially from the IPAS accommodation system — and the wider issues of transparency and oversight.This is a fact-based discussion about pressure, protest, and where things may be heading.

Date: April 2, 2026‍Hosts: Keith Walsh, Oscar Virdee, and AlWith a bank holiday on the horizon, the MOTH News team gathers for a special Thursday broadcast to tackle a unsettling question: Is Ireland drifting toward a new kind of lockdown?As fuel prices skyrocket and economic pressure mounts, we aren't being told to stay home by the government—but our bank accounts might be giving the order anyway. In this episode, we explore the "Energy Lockdown" and what it means for the country.The Noah Donohoe Inquest: A brief update on the week's legal proceedings, including the news that hearings will now extend into May.The Cost of Connection: Oscar Virdee shares a personal account of how rising fuel costs are already altering behavior, from choosing trains over cars to the difficult decision of skipping family visits due to travel expenses.Ireland’s Economic Pulse: A deep dive into the news round-up, covering fuel price volatility, hauliers under fire, and the ESRI’s warning that we are living in "non-normal times."Industry in Crisis: We analyze the stark warnings from James Geoghegan regarding potential shutdowns at Dublin Airport and Dublin Port, and the "worst-case scenarios" facing the construction and farming sectors.The Political Divide: We break down the friction between the Government’s targeted supports and Sinn Féin’s calls for more aggressive intervention, featuring analysis from Al on Micheál Martin’s position and our structural dependence on fossil fuels.Business Bites Back: Reaction to Michael O'Leary’s characteristically blunt assessment of a "do-nothing government."The Big Question:At what point does an energy crisis stop being about the price at the pump and start becoming a functional economic shutdown?Join Keith, Oscar, and Al as they break down the news that matters.Inside This Episode:

Today’s programme begins with the latest developments from the inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe.We examine key evidence heard this week — including missed CCTV, unavailable footage from a funeral home, and questions raised around how the early investigation was carried out.We also look at a new report highlighting how children in deprived areas are being drawn into criminal activity from a young age, and the lack of support structures that follow.Later in the show, we cover a major development in France, where prosecutors have searched the offices of Edmond de Rothschild bank as part of an investigation linked to the Epstein files.From there, we explore the wider question of how global networks of finance, politics and influence operate — and how Ireland fits into that picture in the aftermath of the financial crash.We also briefly touch on the Gerry Adams civil case, which concluded shortly after last week’s programme.This is a fact-based discussion focused on evidence, context, and the questions that remain.📺 Live at 11AM🎙️ With Keith Walsh, Oscar Virdee & Al#MOTHNews #NoahDonohoe #EpsteinFiles #IrishNews #Inquest

Today’s special programme takes a closer look at the ongoing inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe.As new evidence continues to emerge, we step through what the inquest has heard so far — from toxicology findings and expert testimony, to the timeline of events in the hours after Noah disappeared.We examine key elements that are raising questions for many following the case, including:The role of Public Interest Immunity (PII) and what it means for evidence that may not be fully disclosedThe movement of Noah’s belongings in the hours after he went missingThe limits of forensic science and what can — and cannot — be determined with certaintyEnvironmental factors relating to the storm drain where Noah was foundWe also reflect on past cases, including that of Arlene Arkinson, to explore how inquests can evolve over time and why early investigative decisions can matter years later.This is a careful, fact-based discussion — not about speculation, but about understanding evidence, uncertainty, and the questions that remain.

This week on MOTH News Live, we bring you the latest developments from the Noah Donohoe inquest in Belfast, where expert testimony has described the case as “one of the most extraordinary” encountered by a forensic pathologist. We’ll break down the key evidence heard in court this week, including what medical experts agreed on about the cause and timing of Noah’s death.We’ll also look at the debate surrounding Dublin Zoo’s Mother’s Day promotion, after comedian James Patrice’s “Malahide Woman” character was chosen as the ambassador for the zoo’s St Patrick’s weekend Irish culture event — a decision that has divided opinion online and in politics.And we continue examining the wider conversation around Irish connections emerging in the Epstein document releases, asking what transparency and accountability should look like when international financial networks intersect with Irish business and public institutions.Join Keith Walsh, Oscar Virdee and Al as we look at the stories behind the headlines and the questions still being asked.Live Friday at 11am.

Tomorrow on MOTH News Live, we examine the growing questions around the Epstein files and the Irish connections being discussed this week. As more documents and correspondence emerge internationally, the debate is widening: should Ireland carry out its own inquiry if Irish names or business networks appear in the material?We’ll also look at rising tensions in the Middle East following the latest Iran–Israel escalation and the argument coming from Washington that external pressure could trigger internal political change in Iran. Is that realistic — or does history suggest the opposite?Back in Ireland, a controversial arrest has raised questions about free speech and proportionality in policing, after Gardaí travelled across the country to arrest a man over a social media comment aimed at a journalist.And we’ll bring you the latest developments from the Noah Donohoe inquest in Belfast, where new evidence continues to examine the timeline of events and the early stages of the police investigation.Join Keith Walsh, Al and Oscar Virdee as we look at the stories and the questions behind them.Live Friday at 11am.

Ireland is drowning long before COP30 can save it.In this episode, we start in North Kerry, where a homeowner watched floodwater surround her home while hedge-cutting debris piled up in a stream like a “beaver dam.” We use a Futurama clip to explain why climate summits still matter, break down what COP30 actually delivered in Belém, and look at why Ireland keeps ending up in court over its climate plans.Al joins the discussion to talk systems failure, tech parallels, and why Ireland struggles with implementation.Then environmental specialist John Doherty from the Inishowen Rivers Trust explains how farmers in Wales reduced flooding with simple, grant-funded measures — the exact kind of practical solution Ireland constantly talks about but rarely does.A grounded, solutions-focused look at the messy gap between climate policy and the lived reality in Irish communities already underwater.

MOTH News Live — Friday 20 NovemberThis week: US businessman Jeff Leo faces a High Court grilling over €60 million in disputed assets, unfiled accounts, and a secret stake in an IPAS accommodation centre.Keith breaks down what it means — and why it matters.Also:The real story behind the Beyond the Pale Festival rescueOscar explains how FOI requests hold the State to accountAnd Ireland’s playoff path for the 2026 World CupLive from 11am with Keith Walsh, Oscar Virdee and Al Francis.

Moth News Live returns with a brand new format! Host Keith Walsh, joined by Al and Oscar, leads a high-stakes investigation into three stories the establishment doesn't want discussed.This week, we are asking who is financially benefiting from Ireland's ongoing crises. Keith begins by dissecting Simon Harris's suggestion that immigration is the core housing problem, arguing instead that the focus should be on the financial beneficiaries who profit from the crisis's continuation. We examine a sourced snapshot of private companies currently operating IPAS centers, including Barlow Properties, Cromey Ltd., Aramark, and Mosney Unlimited Company, and ask the central question: “Who’s lobbying hardest to keep it this way?”.Next, Oscar brings alarming data from Dublin and Wicklow adolescent addiction programs. We discuss the finding that up to a quarter of teenagers seeking treatment have ADHD, which is a recognized risk factor for addiction. We explore the prevalence of cannabis (70%) and the regulatory failure surrounding the surge of the semi-synthetic cannabinoid HHC (20%).Finally, Al investigates the turbulent world of startup investment. We highlight the success of the Boole Angel Investment Syndicate, which has invested €15 million, but contrast this with serious allegations stemming from the collapse of food-tech startup Senoptica. We examine claims that investor actions (by Boole Nominees Ltd.) were an "unreasonable and inconsistent" move that "created a funding crisis" designed to be exploited.Join us as we connect the dots and expose the forces profiting from instability—from housing to health to high-tech finance.

Neil Giles of Stop the Traffik says the pattern of trafficking has changed, with more victims from Nigeria and Ghana who are exploited long before reaching Europe. He argues that prevention begins with lived-experience narratives and digital outreach. Campaigns on Facebook and Instagram Lite warn communities about false job offers and scams. Giles cites Desmond Tutu’s analogy: instead of rescuing people downstream, we must stop them from falling in upstream. He says changing awareness and reducing profit can disrupt traffickers’ control.

Miriam Moriarty Owens, one of four Boarded‑Out survivors sleeping rough outside Leinster House, discusses the 40‑day hunger strike, the meeting with Taoiseach Micheál Martin, the role of the upcoming mediator, and the demand for a written HAA medical, state pension and official apology.

MOTH News Live — Friday, November 7thSurvivors of Ireland’s industrial schools are on hunger strike outside the Dáil — demanding medical cards and pensions they’re already entitled to.Keith Walsh speaks with Miriam Moriarty Owens, whose story of violence and survival under the Sisters of Mercy exposes how little has really changed.

If you’ve ever wondered why it’s so hard to get a mortgage in Ireland — even when you’re doing everything right — or why repossessions are still happening over loans taken out during the Celtic Tiger, then this next conversation is one you need to hear.Cormac Butler is a financial consultant, a former derivatives specialist, and a whistleblower who’s been raising the alarm about serious problems in how Irish banks operate — and how the Central Bank regulates them.He believes the banks are hiding major losses. And that the Central Bank is choosing not to act — because doing so could unravel the entire mortgage market.Today, he joins me to explain what he’s uncovered, why he chose to speak out, and what it all means for Irish homeowners, renters, and anyone hoping to buy a home. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On today’s MOTH News Live, Keith Walsh is joined by Al for the stories behind the headlines The latest on Jeff Leo's promised repayments. Will he make it on time and what happens nextSports journalist Philip O’Connor joins us live from Sweden to preview the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Final: Spain vs England.Ireland may not be there, but we can’t afford to sit out the conversation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week on MOTHCAST: Unvetted, we’re joined producer, and activist Áine O’Neill for a powerful and unfiltered conversation about one of the most controversial cultural moments of the year: Irish rap trio Kneecap’s explosive performance at Coachella.Fresh from a 12-day visit to Palestine, Áine shares what she witnessed on the ground, why she speaks out for Palestinian rights, the backlash to Kneecap’s pro-Palestinian message and how once she started to see society for what it is, she had to look at changing everything.We also dig into Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s public demand for Kneecap to clarify their position on Hamas and Hezbollah — and why media outlets in Ireland should clarify where their loyalties lie. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“The Grace Case, All Over Again?”This episode featurs a powerful and urgent conversation that echoes one of Ireland’s most harrowing scandals — the Grace case.Philip O'Connor speaks exclusively to solicitor Caoimhe Haughey, who represents Caitlin Hassan, a young autistic woman who alleges she was raped while in State-funded care.Senator Tom Clonan has called this “the Grace case happening again – in real time.”In this episode:Are the HSE repeating the same catastrophic mistakes?Why were red flags ignored?What justice is possible for Caitlin and her mother Louise?This is a story about safeguarding, systemic failure, and the right to be believed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of MOTHCAST – Unvetted, MOTH News chief reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy for a wide-ranging and unfiltered conversation.Can the current opposition parties really form the next Irish government? What role does Michael Lowry still play in shaping outcomes? Is protest still a powerful tool for change, or has it been neutralised? Paul and Philip also dive into the triple lock on military deployments, Ireland’s neutrality, and ask the big question—are the days of the establishment parties numbered?Smart, sharp, and straight to the point—unfiltered news for unfiltered minds🔊 Subscribe, share, and get involved—because the news doesn’t end when the mic goes off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A few weeks ago, Irish comedian and activist Tadhg Hickey, found himself at the center of a media storm after attending the funeral of Hizbullah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Critical articles in the Irish Independent and Irish Times accused him of ‘foreign policy stupidity’ and aligning with controversial figures. Supporters argue this is an unfair hit piece, while critics say he has crossed a line. Obviously MOTH News chief reporter Philip O'Connor had to sit down and chat to the man. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, former Danish Minister for Greenland (1982-1987) Tom Hoyem sits down with MOTH NEWS chief reporter Philip O’Connor to discuss one of the most bizarre geopolitical proposals in recent history—Donald Trump’s grand plan to buy Greenland.Why would the U.S. want it? How valuable is the territory? And would Greenlanders be happy to become the 51st state? Hoyem offers insider insights, historical context, and a few sharp takes on the idea that made headlines around the world.Tune in for an unfiltered, unvetted conversation on power, politics, and the Arctic’s unexpected role in global strategy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this urgent special report, we go live to Örebro, Sweden, where journalist Philip O’Connor is on the ground covering the tragic school shooting at Risbergska school. With 10 confirmed dead, including the suspected gunman, this is being called the worst mass shooting in Swedish history. What happened? Who was behind it? And how is Sweden responding? Listen now for the latest updates and eyewitness accounts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

MOTHCAST - Unvetted, from MOTH NEWS – The Rise of Far-Right Fight Clubs & the UFC’s Antisemitism ProblemIn this episode of MOTHCAST Unvetted, journalist Karim Zidan joins Philip O’Connor to discuss the troubling connections between combat sports and political extremism. Zidan, whose work has appeared in The New York Times and The Guardian, is the founder of Sports Politika, a multimedia platform focused on the intersection of sports, power, and politics.They explore the rise of far-right fight clubs and how extremist groups are using MMA as a recruitment tool. The conversation also delves into the UFC’s antisemitism problem and the organization’s failure to address growing concerns. With a focus on the power struggles within combat sports, they examine who controls the narrative and what it means for the future of the industry.Watch MOTH NEWS Live every Friday at 3PM. Follow us on @mothnews_ for moreMOTH goes beyond the headlines, bringing you the stories and voices that challenge the status quo. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unvetted: Episode 2A Strand of The MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCASTWelcome back to Unvetted, where we dig into the stories that the mainstream media just isn’t telling. On this strand of the MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCAST, our head reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with past, present, and potential future guests of the broadcast for in-depth conversations about the topics that matter, the stories behind the headlines, and the voices often left unheard.This week’s guest is none other than politically outspoken, avant-garde punk artist Meryl Streek. Meryl is an artist who doesn’t just make music—he makes noise, statements, and bold calls to action. He’s furious at the Irish government, outraged by the ongoing housing crisis, and unafraid to channel his anger into art.Meryl sat with Philip to discuss it all: the government policies that have him fired up, the housing crisis that’s left so many struggling, and how his music acts as both an outlet for his rage and a rallying cry for change. It’s an honest, raw, and unfiltered conversation that dives deep into the intersection of art, politics, and personal rebellion.For those unfamiliar with Meryl’s work, his debut album 796, released on the independent label Venn Records and produced by Dan Doherty (of Fontaines DC fame), has been making waves in the punk and alternative music scenes. The title refers to the 796 children who died at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home in Ireland—an example of how Meryl uses his music to shine a spotlight on the darker chapters of history and hold those in power accountable.Don’t just take our word for it—Rolling Stone’s Francis Zégut called the album, “powerful and rebellious, brave and acid... holy shit it’s good!” Zégut compared Meryl’s sound to the energy of Killing Joke, the defiance of The Sex Pistols, and the chaotic brilliance of The Prodigy. With tracks like “False Apologies” clocking in at nearly six minutes of unapologetic intensity, 796 is punk with purpose—an unrelenting, scathing critique of societal failures.So tune in as Meryl Streek and Philip O’Connor dive into the stories behind the music, the inspirations that drive him, and the fight for a better Ireland. This episode of Unvetted is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of art to challenge the status quo.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.And as always, keep your ears tuned to MOTH NEWS for the stories you won’t find anywhere else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Unvetted: Episode 2A Strand of The MOTH NEWS Podcast - MOTHCASTWelcome back to Unvetted, where we dig into the stories that the mainstream media just isn’t telling. On this strand of the MOTH NEWS Podcast, MOTHCAST, our head reporter Philip O’Connor sits down with past, present, and potential future guests of the broadcast for in-depth conversations about the topics that matter, the stories behind the headlines, and the voices often left unheard.This week’s guest is none other than politically outspoken, avant-garde punk artist Meryl Streek. Meryl is an artist who doesn’t just make music—he makes noise, statements, and bold calls to action. He’s furious at the Irish government, outraged by the ongoing housing crisis, and unafraid to channel his anger into art.Meryl sat with Philip to discuss it all: the government policies that have him fired up, the housing crisis that’s left so many struggling, and how his music acts as both an outlet for his rage and a rallying cry for change. It’s an honest, raw, and unfiltered conversation that dives deep into the intersection of art, politics, and personal rebellion.For those unfamiliar with Meryl’s work, his debut album 796, released on the independent label Venn Records and produced by Dan Doherty (of Fontaines DC fame), has been making waves in the punk and alternative music scenes. The title refers to the 796 children who died at the Tuam Mother and Baby Home in Ireland—an example of how Meryl uses his music to shine a spotlight on the darker chapters of history and hold those in power accountable.Don’t just take our word for it—Rolling Stone’s Francis Zégut called the album, “powerful and rebellious, brave and acid... holy shit it’s good!” Zégut compared Meryl’s sound to the energy of Killing Joke, the defiance of The Sex Pistols, and the chaotic brilliance of The Prodigy. With tracks like “False Apologies” clocking in at nearly six minutes of unapologetic intensity, 796 is punk with purpose—an unrelenting, scathing critique of societal failures.So tune in as Meryl Streek and Philip O’Connor dive into the stories behind the music, the inspirations that drive him, and the fight for a better Ireland. This episode of Unvetted is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of art to challenge the status quo.Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.And as always, keep your ears tuned to MOTH NEWS for the stories you won’t find anywhere else. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the MOTHCAST the MOTH News Podcast! 🎙️MOTH stands for Monopoly of Truth, and we’re dedicated to cutting through the noise to uncover the stories that truly matter. In a media landscape often influenced by vested interests, our mission is to deliver transparency, ask tough questions, and provide a platform for in-depth conversations that empower you to think critically about the world around you.I’m Keith Walsh, and along with my co-host Al, we bring you the audio version of our weekly live stream, just in case you missed it. We go live every Friday across your favorite platforms—catch us on X (@mothnews_), Instagram (@monopolyoftruth), and on YouTube, TikTok, Twitch, and more.This week’s show is packed with hard-hitting stories:🛑 We spoke to James from Comrade Workwear about how his social media accounts were wiped out and why the NYPD showed up at his door.📉 Plus, Philip O’Connor joins us from Sweden with devastating news about Ireland’s record-breaking homeless figures.Join Al and me for another deep dive into the stories that matter. Stay informed, stay engaged, and join the conversation with MOTH News Live. Let’s dive in! 🎧 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.