Behind the Story

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.

As US President Donald Trump issued tariff threats on 8 European countries, Fran [yes, he's back] and Karen speak to Chief Economist with the Institute of European Affairs, Dan O'Brien. The tariff threats are retaliation for the countries disagreeing with Trump's demand to own Greenland. Dan explains the impact of the previous round of tariffs and says that there's comes a time when economics needs to take a backseat when the territorial integrity of a member state is at risk. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, it was reported that China's trade surplus has reached $1.9 trillion last year, a 20% increase on 2024. As China exports continue to grow, Agriculture and Consumer Affairs correspondent Aengus Cox joins Evelyn and Karen to discuss his recent trip to China and what it was like to be stopped by police in Shanghai. Later, reporter Julieanne Corr of the Sunday Times discusses the increasing use of ketamine in Ireland and the side effects of the drug. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senior Gardaí appeared at the Oireachtas media committee today where they revealed they are investigated two hundred complaints about Grok AI and child abuse imagery. Work and Technology correspondent Brian O'Donovan joins Evelyn and Karen to discuss the committee hearing, which politicians are leaving X and if the authorities are playing catch up with AI developments. Later, retired architect, David O'Connor explains the history of the construction of Dublin City Council buildings and why he believes more needs to be done to examine staying on the site rather than vacating it for new offices. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jessie Buckley won Best Actress at the Golden Globes for her performance in 'Hamnet', an adaptation of the best selling book of the same name by Coleraine born author Maggie O'Farrell. Evelyn O'Rourke and Maggie Doyle discuss the win, what it means for Irish acting talent and if this could be the start of even more awards for the actress from Killarney. Later, the duo are joined by Professor Fawaz Gerges of the London School of Economics to discuss Iran and the ongoing protests in the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A majority of EU States voted to pass the Mercosor trade deal with South American countries. Ireland, along with 4 other countries voted against the deal. Professor John O'Brennan of Maynooth University joins Evelyn O'Rourk to explain the deal, Ireland's position and why it's not over the line just yet. Later, Dara Tallon, producer of 'On The Beat' - the fly on the wall TV documentary following on duty Gardaí reveals the secrets of the production and what it's like to go on a drugs raid with the force. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government is hoping to attract more tourists here from India, the UAE and the Asia-Pacific region as part of a new strategic investment plan of €4.7 billion across a range of sectors. Political Correspondent Mícheál Lehane joined Evelyn and Karen to outline what's in the plan and looks at the changing political mood around climate targets. Later, teacher and researcher Eoghan Cleary explains the growing concern around Grok AI's feature that 'undresses' people and the rise of so called 'nudification apps'.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ousted President Maduro was brought to court in New York this afternoon to face drugs and weapons charges. Meanwhile, it remains unclear who is really running Venezuela amidst claims by President Trump that the US is in charge. The UN Security Council is meeting in an emergency session as the American administration continues to threaten other countries including Greenland saying it needs to annex the country for 'national security' reasons. Host Karen Creed is joined by Assistant Professor in the History of War at UCD, Ed Burke to discuss the unprecedented situation. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With less than six months to the kick off of the World Cup, Fran is joined by sports reporter, Miguel Delaney for a deep dive into how FIFA operates and asks who is Gianni Infantino. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kneecap, Traitors, Adolescence and the Eurovision, just some of the big entertainment stories that hit the headlines this year. Streaming continues to grow and threatens to upend how we watch and enjoy movies. Actors unions and the big studios are concern about the future. Despite this, it was a good year for Irish musicians, actors and production companies.Fran talks to Arts and Media Correspondent Evelyn O’Rourke and Entertainment Journalist Alan Corr as they pick out their highs and lows of 2025. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Concerns around US tariffs dominated the first half of the year in 2025. While on the domestic front, the debate around working from home continued as many businesses insisted their employees return to the workplace. The school secretaries strike was one of the year's big industrial actions and the challenges of meeting housing targets were never far from the headlines. RTÉ's Brian O’Donovan and David Murphy sit down with Fran McNulty to tease out the stories that shaped the economic and  business this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the year comes to an end, Fran takes a look back at some of the stories on artificial intelligence that were covered on the podcast. From new guidelines, AI music, technology in schools and AI therapy chatbots, the technology continues to challenge and upend many industries. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dáil rows, Trump's tariff threats and a Presidential campaign: Professor Gary Murphy of DCU and political reporter Sandra Hurley join Fran to dissect and analyse the year in politics. The trio discuss the emergence of Michael Lowry TD as a power broker in government formation and the decision by Sinn Féin to back Independent TD Catherine Connolly for the run at the Áras which she ultimately won. The trio also take a look into the new year and the prospect to two by-elections. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twenty four hours on from the publication of the Fianna Fáil report into their Presidential campaign, Fran and Barry dissect the reaction to the report and examine the pressure on Party leader Michéal Martin. Later, reporter Kate Varley joins the duo and chats about her recent trip to Bangladesh. Kate visited Cox's Bazaar, home to 1.3million Rohinyga refugees and explains how recent aid cuts are beginning to take effect. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is mounting on Fianna Fáil to release the report into the Jim Gavin Presidential campaign. Three senior party members said today that the report must come out this week. Joe Mag Raollaigh joins Fran to tease out the timeframe around the report and explain why the pressure is building inside the party. Later, Fran is joined by Europe reporter for Euronews, Shona Murray to discuss the ongoing talks around the Ukraine war and the positive noise coming from the Ukraine side in Berlin. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Uisce Éireann announced that it will submit plans for the country's largest ever water project next week. The plan involves building a 170km underground pipe to take water from the Shannon and bring it to Dublin and surrounding counties. Environment correspondent, George Lee joins Fran to explain the project, why it's necessary and why there is opposition to it. Later, Fran is joined by reporter, Catherine Eillis who discusses what's happening in Venezuela and outlines some of the detail of the opposition leader María Corina Machado daring escape to collect the Nobel Peace Prize. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

RTÉ's Director General, Kevin Bakhurst and the leadership team appeared at the Oireachtas media committee today to give an update on developments at the broadcaster. Fran and Barry Lenihan discuss the issues politicians were keen to get answers on including whether Mr Bakhurst was invited to Ryan Tubridy's wedding! Later, Adam Maguire joins Fran and Barry to explain the other big media story of the past few days; Netflix's attempt to buy Warner Brothers and whether the deal could impact the price of subscriptions. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gardaí have described the fatal attack on a family home in Edenderry as 'callous, reckless and murderous'. Mary Holt and her four year old grand nephew died in a fire that was started deliberately on Saturday night. Investigating Gardaí are saying one line of inquiry is that an organised drug gang may have targeted the house in a case of drug debt intimidation. Limerick based Addiction counsellor, Michael Guerin joins Fran and Maggie to discuss the wider issue of drug use and the impact drug debt and intimidation can have on people. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US military and Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth are under pressure over the killing of 11 people during a boat strike on Sept. 2nd. Louise Byrne and Cian McCormack are joined by Niall Stanage of The Hill who explains the controversy and why the administration is standing firm on it's policy of attacking so-called 'narco-terrorists. Later, Cian and Louise reveal their listening age on Spotify Wrapped. John Meagher of the Irish Independent discuss 'Wrapped' and why we like to appear 'cool' with our listening age! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The country's most famous road is officially at capacity but can anything be done to improve journey times on the M50? Reporter Conor McMorrow joins Fran and Maggie to outline the issues with the M50 and reveal a few interesting facts such as why there is no junction 8! Later, Assistant Professor and Architect Orla Hegarty of UCD joins the duo to explain the government new report - 'Acclerating Infrastructure' which outlines actions to speed up the delivery of critical projects. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, the government confirmed President Zelensky will visit Dublin on Tuesday. Political editor, Joe Mag Raollaigh joins Jackie Fox to outline the visit and explains the security operation that has swung into place. Later, Jackie speaks to Christopher Miller of the Financial Times who is in Kyiv, he explains how the leaked details of the peace talks are being received by the Ukranian public and outlines the corruption scandal that is dominating the headlines in the country. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, Enoch Burke was jailed for the fourth time since 2022 for contempt of court. He appeared by videolink from Mountjoy today to listen to the latest decisions in relation to his case. Legal Affairs correspondant, Orla O'Donnell joins Fran on hosting duties and together the duo speak with Bernard Dunleavy SC about contempt and the challenge of the Burke family's continued disruption of court proceedings. Later, Orla and Fran discuss reports that people are posting on social less and less! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, the government announced a scoping inquiry into abuse by former surgeon Michael Shine. Shine was found guilty of child abuse in 2019 and released from prison three years ago, however it is believed he abused hundreds of children and young men over his thirty years as a medical doctor. Reporter Saoirse McGarrigle joins Fran and Laura to discuss the case and how she met and interviewed Shine in his kitchen in Dublin in May of this year. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

President Trump is sounding positive about the talks to bring about peace in Ukraine, however President Zelensky says borders cannot be changed by force. How realistic is the so called 28 point plan tabled by the US? Fran is joined by Keir Giles, an expert in Russia at Chatham House think tank, to discuss the latest proposals and whether a deal could be reached by the US deadline of Thanksgiving. Later, consumer affairs correspondant, Aengus Cox explains the new law which is coming into affect this week that sets down rules around access to cash via ATMs in rural areas. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Award winning Producer-Director Trevor Birney speaks to Fran about his new two part TV documentary, DJ Carey: The Dodger. Trevor, who produced critically acclaimed films including Kneecap and Quinn Country explains what attracted him to the DJ story. Trevor believes there are many more victims of Carey's fraud and that the full impact of his lies may never been known.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Police authorities across Europe including Ireland have undercovered a massive money laundering network that included buying a bank! Crime correspondent, Paul Reynolds joins Fran and Aisling to explain how the network operated and how the Kinahan organised crime group are involved. Later, as Black Friday deals ramp up, sustainability expert, Laura Costello discusses how advertising is pushing consumers to buy more and more, but there are small signs things are changing, second hand websites are becoming more popular and 'de-influencing' is becoming a 'thing'!! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcasts and conflicts of interest were under the microscope at the Dáil media committee today.  Political reporter, Juilette Gash joins Fran and Aisling to discuss Ivan Yates, the media regulator and the possibility that podcasts might be subject to new media rules. Later, the duo are joined by Clean Energy lecturer, Paul Deane of UCC, to tease out whether small nuclear reactors could be the answer to the country's future power supply. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jackie Fox and Aisling Kenny are joined by former Democratic Governor Howard Dean to discuss JFK's grandson, Jack Schlossberg entry into political life. Jackie also reveals the story behind how she came across Troy Parrott's granny on Portland Row. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US military continues to build up forces off the coast of Venezuela, but what is really going on there? Professor of International Politics, Scott Lucas joins Evelyn O'Rourke and Maggie Doyle to explain what is happening in the region and why it's possible, the so called war on narco-terrorists is really a pretext for regime change. Later, Evelyn and Maggie discuss the Tik Tok awards and how podcasts could soon make an appearance on the platform. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ahead of the release of the government's housing plan, Fran and Laura take at look at what is known so far and reel back the years on previous housing plans. Later, as EU Commissioner Michael McGrath announces his flagship policy: the Democracy Shield, Europe Editor, Tony Connelly joins the hosts to explain what the so called 'shield' is and how it might work to combat disinformation and protect democracies. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two senior executives at the BBC have resigned over an edited clip used in a Panorama documentary about Trump and the Capitol Hill riots. But, what exactly happened inside the BBC over the past few days? and why is Trump now threatened legal action and demanding an apology? Reporter Enda Brady joins Fran and Aisling to explain what is going on and why it has become such a huge problem for the world's largest broadcaster. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Love motels, cruise ships and new highways - some of the things you might not know about the Climate summit COP30. Laura Fletcher joins Fran to discuss the ins and outs of the biggest environment meeting in the world and the challenges that delegates face over the next two weeks to hammer out an agreement. Later, the duo are joined by freelance reporter, Kieran Cunningham to examine the inaugural FIFA's peace prize which is due to be presented at the World Cup draw next month. [No prizes for guessing who is going to win]! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reporter John Cooke joins Fran to discuss the ongoing murder investigation into Co Clare woman, Emer O'Loughlin. Earlier today, a jury at an inquest returned a verdict of unlawful killing. Emer was killed on April 8th 2005 in what were deemed to be suspicious circumstances at the time. Fran and John discuss the case and how the main suspect, John 'Fozzie' Griffin, remains at large. Later, Fran is joined by RTÉ's Fiona Mitchell to analyse the dramatic wins for the Democratics in the US overnight and ask if this could mark a turning point in the party's fortunes. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An expert in misinformation has warned about the amount of “AI slop” online as a new investigation found 172 instances of political mis- and disinformation on social media platforms in the six weeks leading up to the presidential election.Ciarán O’Connor from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue told Behind the Story they monitor social media platforms and identify instances of “online attacks on election integrity”.He told Fran and Jackie they identified "many false, misleading or delegitimising narratives" both about the electoral process and the candidates.Jackie also discusses covering the unrest at the weekend outside an IPAS centre in Drogheda, which saw a premises set alight.Mr O’Connor said the “online rumour mill” can be a dangerous element in such situations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The judge in the DJ Carey case told the former hurling legend that he can expect a prison sentence for defrauding people for falsely claiming he needed money for cancer treatment. Prime Time's Paul Murphy was in court today to hear the victim impact statements and details about DJ Carey's claim he had received treatment in a Seattle hospital. Paul joins Katie and Aisling to outline what was said in the packed court room. Later, Aisling and Katie are joined by The Hill's White House columnist Niall Stanage as he explains how millions of Americans will lose their food stamp benefits from this weekend due to the government shutdown. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the dust settles on the presidential election, some Fianna Fáil members are questioning how their campaign went so wrong – with pressure said to be growing on Micheál Martin and his position as party leader. Fran and Evelyn sit down with RTÉ Radio 1’s election oracle Barry Lenihan to talk about what the future could hold? They also discuss RTÉ’s 2024 Annual Report - which saw income from the licence fee drop €4 million last year – and details the top 10 high earners. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the Dublin marathon taking place this weekend, David, Fran and Katie speak to Sean Ingle, Chief Sports reporter with the Guardian who recently visited the innovation lab at Nike HQ. Sean tried motorised runners and slides that claim to improve focus. Sportswear is a multi billion euro business and innovation is key for future success. The trio also discuss the latest trends and the challenges that Trump's tariffs are placing on companies. Later, Katie and Fran say goodbye to David and present him with an interesting gift! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There was “serious concern for public life” during violence seen in Citywest in Dublin last night, a journalist has told Behind the Story. It comes after violent disturbances outside an accommodation centre for International Protection applicants last night in Citywest in Dublin. Crime editor with The Irish Sun, Stephen Breen, said gardaí were prepared for the unrest. He also spoke about how organisers are using social media platforms “as a weapon”. Fran and David also discuss a Serious Crime Review Team which is to look at the investigation into the death of Liam Farrell. The Co Leitrim farmer was found dead in suspicious circumstances at his home over five years ago which has been previously covered by Prime Time. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David, Fran and Katie are live backstage at the final Presidential Election TV debate. Joined by Gary Murphy, Professor of Politics at DCU, they analyse how the candidates performed and examine the key moments from the night. Later, presenters, Miriam O'Callaghan and Sarah McInerney, who hosted the debate drop in on the podcast to offer their perspective on how it all went. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's being described as the 'heist of the century', priceless crown jewels were stolen on Sunday from the Louvre museum and now questions are being asked about the security and who could carry out such a daring raid. David, Katie and Fran are joined by reporter Sharon Gaffney who gives details on the investigation so far and the reaction in France. The hosts also chat to Claire Mestrallet, Head of Jewellery at Adams who explains how difficult it will be to sell the jewels on. Later, the trio discuss the Presidental campaign ahead of tomorrow's final TV debate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the rise of AI and deepfake videos, Brian O'Donovan joins Katie and David to discuss whether we can really trust what we are seeing online? Brian also explains new safeguards being brought in for teens interacting with AI tools. David also gives us his review of the Bruce Springsteen biopic.Anyone affected by issues raised in this podcast can go to rte.ie/helplinesSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Campaign groups are raising serious concerns about how owner management companies are running apartment complexes. While some are well run, many are struggling to deal with a legacy of bad debt, insufficient sinking funds and a lack of expertise as the rules around OMCs get more onerous each year. Campaigner Pat Montague joins Fran and Jackie Fox to discuss the issue and how the state's remediation scheme for defective buildings [est. €2.4bn] could be dwarfed by future repairs works needed for apartments where the sinking fund is non-existent. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump hailed as historic the ceasefire between Israeli and Hamas that came into effect over the weekend.  Earlier today, 20 Israeli hostages were freed and close to 2,000 Palestinians were released from prison. Fran and Evelyn are joined by international corrrespondant Bel Trew to discuss Trump's speech to the Knesset and the difficult road ahead for Palestinians hoping for a lasting peace. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid a shake-up of RTÉ’s Radio 1 schedule, Katie reflects on her new job behind a different mic – and what it means for Fran.The duo also discuss the difficulties – and merits – of winning a Nobel Peace Prize.They are joined by Ed Burke, Assistant Professor in the History of War at UCD, who explains why US President Donald Trump may still get his hands on one.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The tenant at the centre of the Jim Gavin debacle unmasked himself on the Sunday World podcast today prompting more developments on the story! David, Fran and Katie digest the latest twists and turns as pressure rises ahead of the Fianna Fáil parlimentary party meeting this eve. Later, the trio speak to Professor Marc Weller of Chatham House who explains what is in the peace plan for Gaza and what the big obstacles are. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ministers Donohue and Chambers outlined Budget 26 this afternoon in the Dáil. Katie and Fran are joined by Kate English, Chief Economist with Deloitte to analyse whether or not this means you will have more or less money in your pocket. Gone are the one-off payments and instead the government focused on longer term spending. Katie and Fran also discuss the continuing fallout from the withdrawal of Fianna Fáil's candidate Jim Gavin from the Presidential race. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

'Fiasco' just one of the words used by Fianna Fáil politicians to describe the Presidential campaign for the party now. This follows the sudden withdrawal of FF's candidate, Jim Gavin over a dispute with a tenant dating back to 2009. Fran, Katie and David examine the timeline of the story over this weekend culminating in Gavin's decision to withdraw on Sunday night. Several senior Fianna Fáil politicians are calling for a review of the selection of Jim Gavin and many are questioning what this means for party leader Micheál Martin who chose Gavin as a candidate. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the budget approaching, David, Fran and Katie look at how much the government has to spend. They are joined by Albert Dolan, Fianna Fail TD who has just released a public payments tracker that he and a friend created. Albert explains how the tracker works and why it's handy to see who is getting by which department. Later, the trio discuss Taylor Swift's new album "The Life of a Showgirl" and if happy albums are as good as tortured ones! Link to the public payments tracker: [best on a laptop/PC]https://bit.ly/Publicspendtracker See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.