Behind the Story

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contradictory statements continue to flow from President Trump and his administration on the Iran war. Trump expects the conflict to end in a few weeks, meanwhile the US military presence continues to expand in the Gulf. Dr Patrick Bury, security and defence lecturer at the University of Bath joins Fran to explain how a military attack on Kharg Island might take place and what would be involved in trying to provide safe passage to oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Inflation figures released today show prices rose by 1.8% since last month. RTÉ's David Murphy joins Fran to explain the latest figures and the measures government has taken so far to try and alleviate the rising energy costs. Later, David Lubin - Global Economics expert from think tank Chatham House explains how China could be the winner in the short term as the price of oil continues to rise.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Drug initimidation gangs are threatening families in rural areas. At a recent community meeting in Co Galway, a young women told people how an armed and masked gang turned up to her parents house demanding money. Reporter Jacqueline Hogge joined Fran and co host, Eamon Horan to chat about drug use in rural areas. Later, Fran and Eamon discuss Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen's outburst at a press conference in Japan on Thursday night. Verstappen took issue with a reporter and demanded he 'get out'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You Tuber Stephen McCullagh was found guilty of the murder of his pregnant girlfriend Natalie McNally on Monday in a Belfast court. Northern Correspondant Conor Macauley was in court and shares details from the case with Paul and co-host, Dyane Connor. Conor says he had never seen anything like the reaction after the jury delivered the guilty verdict. Natalie McNally was killed in December 2022, her boyfriend had created an elaborated alibi that fell apart once the police investigated his computer, phone and movements on the night. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's widely anticipated the Government will announce fuel supports in an attempt to soften the blow of increasing petrol and diesel prices. Paul Deane, Senior lecturer in Clean Energy Futures joins Evelyn O'Rourke to discuss market reaction to President Trump claim that he is close to a deal with Iran and that the price of oil will 'drop like a rock'. Later, reporter Jenn Gannon explains why 'Love Story' on Disney has become such a hit with Gen Z. She also outlines why the real people featured in the drama are upset at how they are protrayed. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, a leading figure in the Kinahan crime gang, Sean McGovern pled guilty at the Special Criminal Court to directing a criminal gang in relation to the murder of one man and the surveillance of another. McGovern is the first person to be extradited from the UAE to face trial. Author and crime reporter Barry Cummins joins Fran to discuss the case and examine why the Kinahan crime group are ‘comfortably trapped’ in Dubai as the Iran war continues in the region.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the world's leading tech billionaires, Peter Thiel is in Rome this week, giving a series of 'behind closed doors' lectures on the Antichrist. The Vatican is not impressed. Reporter Amy Kazmin of the Financial Times joins Fran and Paul to discuss the reaction to Thiel's talks. Later, Professor of Ecclesiology, Massimo Faggioli explains the tension between advances in AI, Pope Leo and Catholic America's involvement with investments in the technology. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessie Buckley made history by becoming the first Irish woman to win Best Actress at the Academy Awards. Success too for Dubliner Richie Baneham who won his third Oscar for his work on Avatar. Evelyn O'Rourke tells Fran all about the night, the reaction to the wins but also how the night unravelled for Timothée Chalamet. Later, Fran is joined by Washington Correspondent, Jackie Fox, as she looks ahead to Taoiseach's visit to the White House for St Patrick's Day. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, a documentary by Louis Theroux landed on Netflix. Fran is joined by Professor Debbie Ging of DCU to discuss the growth of the manosphere and how misogynist behaviour and beliefs are spreading. Debbie also talks about what's happening in this country and points to some positive male influencers who are challenging the manosphere. Later, Fran is joined by Evelyn O'Rourke, arts and media correspondant, who is in LA for the Oscars. Evelyn shares stories from the city of Angels! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New figures released today show that used EVs are priced 11% below comparable diesel vehicles. After a fall in the value of electric cars, the market appears to have stabilised, which is attracting buyers back to considering an EV purchase. Fran and Paul are joined by Geraldine Herbert to discuss what's happened and how higher range vehicles are becoming more affordable. Fran and Paul also discuss the concern around the increasing use of private, unregulated accommodation for some of the state's most vulnerable children. Over a thousand children were placed in hotels and B&Bs last year due to a shortage of state accommodation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oil prices surged today to their highest levels since 2022. Stocks fell as the fallout from the Iran conflict continues to hit the economy and your pocket! Economics Editor David Murphy joins Fran to explain what's happening on the markets and why the price of petrol and home heating oil is rising so fast. Later Fran talks to Middle East expert Christian Henderson about food supplies in the Gulf. UAE imports 90% of it's food so it is only a matter of time before prices will go up as it gets more difficult to bring food into the region. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Leitrim man Liam Farrell's death in 2020 was in suspicious circumstances. His family received news on Thursday that the Minister for Justice has authorised the exhumation of the body.  The Garda Serious Crime Review Team are continuing to investigate the case. Liam's son, Brendan Farrell joins Fran to discuss how the family hope they will get answers to what happened to their Dad. Later, Fran is joined by journalist Barry O'Rourke to take a look at the world's No. 1 You Tuber and discuss the news that Mr Beast has acquired a financial services app and looks set to offer financial products to under 18s. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"The family circus has to end' says Justice Brian Cregan who, today, ordered that Enoch Burke's mother and sister be sent to jail for two weeks for contempt of court. Legal Affairs correspondant Orla O'Donnell joins Paul and Fran to discuss the latest twist in the Burke family's ongoing disruption of court proceedings. Later, Security and Warfare expert, Patrick Bury of University of Bath shares some interesting 'missile maths', the cost of an interceptor missile to take down one drone. He explains how drones have changed the nature of conflict. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2013, the Gardaí, with permission from the courts, released a picture of an unidentified girl to try and find out who she was. Within hours, they had a name: Samantha Azzopardi, an Australian serial fraudster. Azzopardi was deported and subsequently jailed but it now appears she's back to her old habits!! You can listen to the Finding Samantha podcast here: https://www.rte.ie/radio/podcasts/series/38519-finding-samantha/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the US-Iran conflict escalates, oil prices have begun to rise, so what impact could the crisis have on prices here? Adam Maguire of the RTÉ Business desk joins Fran and Maggie to explain why the Straits of Hormuz is so important and how shipping is already re-routing away from the region. Later, Professor John O'Brennan of Maynooth University discusses the EU response, the potential to get dragged into the conflict and the possible impact on Ireland's hosting of the EU Presidency. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US and Israel have commenced 'major combat operations' against Iran. Iran has responded by hitting sites in several Gulf States including Israel. Fran and Paul are joined by Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East Editor with the Economist and by Ali Vaez, Iran Project Director with the International Crisis Group to discuss the situation and to explore the possible outcome of US action and the increased threat to the global economy. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Larry Goodman is one of Ireland's richest men, with a business empire that stretches from beef to healthcare and property. A new two part TV documentary 'Goodman - Too Big to Fail' looks at how his business collapsed two governments and brought in the era of tribunals. Ella McSweeney and Ciarán Cassidy share insights from the documentary. Later, Arts and Media correspondant, Evelyn O'Rourke joins Fran and Maggie to discuss the decline in interest in arts degrees and asks if we need 'STEAM' as well as 'STEM'. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government published the country's first maritime strategy today, but what's in it? and do we have the money to pay for it? Former Army Ranger and TD, Dr Cathal Berry joins Fran and Paul to tease out the plan. Later, RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan discusses the possibility that Stripe - the payment firm may buy PayPal, which would be a significant move for the Collison Brothers from Limerick, who own Stripe. And, Punch the monkey gets a mention! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the 4th anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches, Professor Donnacha Ó' Beacháin joins Fran and Laura to discuss the situation now. A planned European Union loan of €90bn for Ukraine has been blocked by Hungary so what needs to happen to support the country in the future? Later, Fran takes a look at a special project at the University of Limerick where Irish, Ukrainian and EU students are making plans to help with the reconstruction of Kharkiv and other cities in the war torn country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Following the arrest and release of Andrew Mountbatten Windsor by Thames Police, the story continues to dominate world headlines. Historian and author of 'Entitled', Andrew Lownie joins Fran and Maggie to discuss the unprecedented nature of the arrest and his research into the former Prince's activities as a trade envoy. Fran and Maggie also reveal the story behind the photo that was taken of Andrew's release and how Reuters' photographer Phil Noble got the shot that was flashed across the world. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Richard Browne, the Director of the National Cyber Security Centre joined Fran and Paul for a deep dive into the cyber risks facing the country. AI is acclerating the number of attacks globally and even the National Cyber Risk Assessment document, published in December is already out of date in parts. Richard explains the type of threats that are evolving and how some nation states are actively involved in espionage and attacks on critical infrastructure. Closer to home, Richard explains that the NCSC will shortly roll out more support to SMEs to help combat cyberattacks. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"I have a lift, bye'... the last words of Jo Jo Dullard in 1995 before she went missing. Gardaí declared her case a murder investigation in 2020. Deirdre Jacob went missing in 1998, her case was upgraded to a murder enquiry in 2018. Today, a new search began in a quarry in Co Wicklow, it is the first time both cases have been linked by the authorities. Crime journalist and author Barry Cummins joins Fran and Maggie to explain the new developments which led to today's search. Later, Fran and Maggie discuss the situation regarding some schools receiving letters indicating they will be losing some of their SNA support. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An agreement between the OPW and a charity to build a National Children's Science Centre has run aground. The OPW says it doesn't have the money and no government department wants to take responsability for it however it was revealed on Thursday that the building MUST be delivered by 2029. So what is going on? Public Affairs Correspondant with the Irish Times, Martin Wall joins Fran and and Laura to explain what's happening and why the OPW are saying there could be less flood defences if they are forced to see this project through. Later, Sustainability and Marketing lecturer, Ciarán O'Carroll discusses the ongoing row around oat milk and why's it's not 'milk'! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Irish man Seamus Culleton who is detained by ICE in a facility in Texas went public with his story yesterday and appealed to politicians to help get him released. But would diplomacy help or hinder the situation? Former Irish Ambassador to the US, Dan Mulhall joins Fran and Paul to discuss what could be done. The duo also explain the latest developments in the review into children's spinal surgeries in CHI Temple Street. Fran and Paul tease out the latest Olympic drama off the ice, the story of the bronze medallist who confessed to having an affair on live TV in an effort to win his girlfriend back. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

House buyers who bid on properties in open or online auctions are pushing prices up more than they can afford. Bidders in sealed auctions pay less and don't go beyond their budget. A new report by ESRI examines the behaviour of bidders in different house buying systems. Professor Pete Lunn joins Fran and Maggie to explain the research and the psychology at play when someone is bidding on a property. Later, Dr Kathryn Simpson of Keele University analyses the mounting pressure on British Prime Minister Keir Starmer following two resignations from his political staff in the last twenty hour hours. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the Winter Olympics gets underway in Italy, RTE Sport's Eamon Horan joins Fran and Laura to discuss the Irish hopefuls at the games and the controversy around penis injections in ski jumping! Later, Assistant Lecturer in Global Business at TUD, Richard Woodward, discusses the ongoing ban of Russian and Belarusian athletes from international sporting competitions. FIFA and the IOC signalled this week they support lifting the ban on the two countries for future games. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new survey from the University of Limerick Student Union found 60% of commuter students travelled more than one hour each way to campus during the last academic year. Commuting is having a substantial impact on students’ academic performance, financial security and wellbeing.Dervla Ryan, Diversity & Inclusion Officer at UL Students’ Union, discusses the survey – and what needs to be done to change things.Lucy Fisher of the Financial Times also joins Fran and Laura to outline the growing pressure on UK PM Keir Starmer over Peter Mandelson relationship with disgraced former financier Jeffrey Epstein. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A bitter row has broken out over the last week between farmer organisations and the Chair of Bord Bia, but what's it all about? Agriculture and Consumer Affairs Correspondent Aengus Cox joins Fran to explain what's going on and why he believes both sides have become entrenched in their positions. Later, Editor of Travel Extra, Eoghan Corry discusses the proposed changes to the ESTA visa waiver scheme which could affect tourists and World Cup fans travelling to the US this summer. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Slaney and Dodder rivers burst their banks and flooded surrounding areas following subtantial rainfall over the past few days. And while the clean up has begun, more rain in expected over the next 24 hours. Could the flooding have been predicted? and are there nature based solutions that could help prevent floods. Professor of Geography at TCD, Mary Bourke joins Fran and Karen to explain how nature could help prevent some of the worst flooding, she rules out the use of beavers, the aquatic animals being used in other countries! Later, Fran and Karen discuss the CCPC's new guidelines around tipping and technology! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officials in US President Donald Trump's administration continue to defend the fatal shooting on Saturday of a man by immigration agents in Minneapolis, even as video evidence contradicts their version of events.Alex Pretti, who worked as an intensive care nurse, is the second US citizen to be fatally shot by ICE this month in Minneapolis.Niall Stanage, White House columnist with The Hill, joins Fran and Karen from Washington DC to discuss the official response to the shooting and the uncertainty, fear and stress the actions of ICE are having on communities across the US.Later, Business and Technology correspondent Brian O’Donovan popped in to discuss the latest EU investigation into Grok.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the man who murdered Dublin woman Marilyn Rynn in December 1995 is released from prison, author and crime journalist Barry Cummins details the investigation into her murder and the role DNA played in helping Gardaí identify David Lawler as her killer.Barry's been chatting to Fran and Karen about the case that gripped the country in the early days of 1996.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As President Trump continues to make demands, newly minted Washington Correspondent, Jackie Fox joins Fran and Fiona to discuss the US President's extraordinary speech at Davos this afternoon. Later, the duo are joined by business correspondent Fergal O'Brien who sat in on the Ryanair press conference today. Michael O'Leary took aim at the world's richest man, Elon Musk [again] as he launched the Ryanair 'idiots seat sale, while thanking Musk for the publicity! This morning, at the health committee, the lack of services for people with eating disorders was discussed, Paula Crotty of Cared Ireland shared her experience of losing her adult daughter to anorexia. [Cared Ireland can be contacted at [email protected]] See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.