Lunchtime Live

Hopefully you’ll be singing from the same hymn sheet as Andrea’s guest…Musician Paul Luby is well known for his covers of ‘mass bangers’ and he joins to discuss what they are, and why they have become so popular.

A video has been posted online, showing a group of teenage boys riding scramblers on Cork’s busiest road at near-peak traffic.The youths were seen speeding and doing wheelies along the N40 near Douglas, only two weeks after the government announced a crackdown on scramblers following the death of Grace Lynch in Finglas…So, what should be done about this behaviour?Joining Andrea to discuss is Joe O’Shea, Editor of Cork Beo, Cian Ginty, Editor of Irish Cycle, as well as listeners.

Rex Ryan’s ‘The Monk’, which is about the life of Gerry ‘The Monk’ Hutch, opened last night at the Ambassador Theatre in Dublin. Andrea was in attendance, as well as Gerry Hutch, who also performed in the play.The question surrounding this play is: does it glamourise crime? Andrea was able to ask this exact question to those who watched it…

Met Éireann has issued a yellow weather warning for multiple counties this week. So, how bad should we expect the weather this week, and how are people recovering after Storm Chandra?Andrea is joined by Cathal Nolan, Founder of Ireland’s Weather Channel, as well as listeners, to discuss.

It's How I live well time! Where someone joins to discuss what they do to improve their life...This week Andrea is joined by Nutritionist Aileen Cox Blundell (@babyledfeeding on Instagram) to discuss how you can make this Pancake Tuesday a bit more healthy with a few smart ingredient swaps!

People living in council housing may be required to pay higher rent contributions if their adult children are working and earning an income.With the rising cost of living and the ongoing housing crisis making it increasingly difficult for adults to move out, is the Government’s failure to address housing affordability now placing an unfair financial burden on families who are already struggling?Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss…

Dr Niall Breen from the Portmarnock GP Clinic joined Andrea Gilligan to tackle your medical queries.

For the past few weeks, we’ve heard heartbreaking stories from listeners about their experiences of being carers for their disabled adult children – and their worries about what’ll happen to them when they die…So, where do we go from here?Joining Andrea to discuss is Derval McDonagh, CEO of Inclusion Ireland.

The pledge taken by children at confirmation has been updated to include abstinence from smoking and vaping, alongside drinking and using illicit drugs.The change follows a sharp increase in young people smoking and vaping, which the church described as a “thoughtful and prayerful response to the lived realities of young people today.”Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.

DNA tests have become very popular, whether to find long lost relatives, to trace your ethnicity, or maybe to find out some answers about your health – but sometimes the results can bring up more questions than answers...That was certainly the case for Summer McKesson, who joins Andrea to discuss…

Welcome to The Pod Squad!We review podcasts every week so you always have something new to listen to.Newstalk’s Rory Galvin and Host of the ‘For Tech’s Sake’ podcast Elaine Burke join Andrea Gilligan to review ‘Ill-advised by Bill Nighy’!Image: EYEPOD Studios

More than 1,000 people were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol at the end of 2025. Even more concerning, one individual was arrested 15 times within a three-year period in 2021 - a striking example of repeat offending that calls into question the effectiveness of current enforcement measures and deterrents on Irish roads.What does this mean for the safety of drivers, cyclists and pedestrians on Irish roads? Do we need more Garda presence to ensure safety on Irish roads?Joining Andrea to discuss is Editor with Completecar.ie, Shane O’Donoghue, as well as listeners.

For this week’s Ask Me Anything, Andrea was joined by the manager at Emerald Park Theme park Ross Ennis !

With tomorrow being Valentines day, there will be many who may feel pressure to pop the question tomorrow. But should you? Joining Andrea to discuss  was Counselling psychologist Niamh Delmar and  Nick Appleby from Appleby Jewellers, who sell engagement rings

For the past two weeks, Lunchtime Live has spoken to parents who are caring for adult children with intellectual disabilities about their struggles to get support for their care. Yesterday, Andrea spoke to Mother “Anna” who dropped her daughter off at A&E because she had reached a breaking point in trying to care for her. Today, Taoiseach Micheal Martin responded to Anna's story. Andrea also spoke and met in person Tony Murray, the Founder of the Before We Die Campaign, his wife, Susan and their daughter, Aoife at their home

Over the past few decades, the number of tourists in Dublin has been on the rise, helping to create jobs and fuel the economy. But has the city become to tourist centric? And is it making the quality of life for residents worse with noise pollution ? Joining Andrea to discuss was Robbie Kitt - DJ, Give us the Night Campaign, Jamie Harrington and Aaron, a Taxi Driver in Dublin

From ghostly goings on in Leinster House, to Irish interest at Crufts – Laura Donnelly joined Andrea with a roundup of some of the stories from across the country this week.

Severe flooding has caused significant disruption across Dublin following heavy rainfall overnight, with many areas experiencing dangerous road conditions and traffic delays.Dublin Airport has urged passengers to allow extra travel time due to heavy congestion and flooding on key routes to the airport.Meanwhile, residents on Marrsfield Avenue in the Belmayne area have been particularly hard hit, with floodwaters causing extensive damage to homes and vehicles.Andrea was joined by those who have been affected by the flooding overnight aswell as Alan O’Reilly from Carlow weather, and Conor Doyle is an assessor, Graeme McQueen, Media relations Manager with the DAA and broadcaster Adrian Kennedy

Earlier in the show Andrea spoke to one mother Anna who had been driven to breaking point looking for support who had no other option but to drop her daughter at A&E. Cian O’Callaghan- Deputy Leader of the Social Democrats joined Andrea to discuss.

Tony Murray spoke to us about how difficult life can be for parents looking after adult children with intellectual disabilities, he mentioned one mother who had been driven to breaking point looking for support who had no other option but to drop her daughter at A&E... That mother joined Andrea to discuss

You spend a lot of your life on one, so how do you know if you’re sleeping on the right mattress for you?This week, the Home Squad are here to discuss all things tech and home,Joining Andrea to discuss is  Jenny Sheahan -Home Squad Regular and ‘workers cottage’ on Instagram  and Jenny Butler  from Jennifer Anne Interiors  

It has been revealed that sales of shots and drinks surged in the Dail bar last year, rising by a four hundred and forty five thousand euro.So what do you think of this bar tab?Andrea was joined by Aisling Moloney, Newstalk Reporter and former Political Correspondent Fianna Fail TD, Malcolm Byrne Malcolm Byrne, Brid Smith former People before profit TD, former Senator, Mary Seary Kearney  and callers who voiced their opinion on the Dail bar

A recent study has found that daughters cost parents more than sons. According to the research, daughters are more likely to want pricier clothes, beauty products and experiences, with parents also reportedly spending more on things like activities and social costs.?  So Are boys more expensive than their female siblings?  Joining Andrea was  Katie Makk from Opinions Matter Podcast and  Presenter with Today FM, Alison Curtis

We’ve decided to do a deep dive on some of our favourite albums to explore the stories behind them.What did the artists really think of each other? Where did the inspirations from the songs come from?Joining Andrea to discuss is Head Tour Guide at the Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum Experience, Alan Buckley, who’s going to talk through David Bowie's Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust

Panic attacks can be brought on by bouts of anxiety and leave people utterly debilitated...  Dominique McMullan, Image Media Editorial Director, shared her story online and joined Andrea to reflect on the impact of Panic Attacks on her and what she has done to address them

Lunchtime Live's Reasons to be Happy looks at some of the news stories that you might have missed that will leave you feeling more optimistic.98FM’s Cathal O’Sullivan joined Andrea in the studio to put a smile on your faces…

Recently, we have had a few of our listeners reach out to tell us their experience when getting their staff Garda vetted.  Garda vetting is a check of your criminal record or any threat to children or vulnerable adults in Ireland.  Andrea was joined by James Hennessy, Zoo director of the National Reptile Zoo Antonio Montero, Coach, Mark Candon, Principal of St. Laurence O'Toole's National School Founder of the Silent Sideline Campaign and who runs an afterschool program to tell us how they found the process.  

New Airbnb regulations will prevent homeowners in towns with populations exceeding 20,000 from renting their properties on a short-term basis for more than 90 days per year.Enterprise Minister Peter Burke confirmed that Government leaders agreed to the change on Monday night, stating that the Coalition must remain “cognisant” of tourism-dependent towns with limited hotel capacity.With hotel prices continuing to rise and certain parts of Ireland struggling to attract visitors, is this policy the most effective way to boost tourism nationwide while also supporting the hotel sector?Joining Andrea was Lorna Cahill Liaison for people with Air Bnb’s and owner of an Air BnB in West Clare,  Eoin Doyle a  hotelier, Lynnie O’Connell P - Hugh Morries, from Hugh Morris Alliance Auctioneers and Valuers and listeners to debate the upcoming measures.

It’s time for Making Babies.We hope that this piece and all the podcasts of the episodes before it can help people anywhere on their fertility journey.  Today, we’re talking about taking the step to try IVF, and how you should be prepared for that.Professor Shane Higgins, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at the National Maternity Hospital, joined Andrea

The Oyekanmi family came to Ireland a number of years ago from Nigeria. Titilayo Oluwakemi Oyekanmi, and her three boys sought asylum here. But the family is to due face deportation tomorrow. Titilayo joined Andrea to discuss their campaign for the Justice Department to intervene in their case. Also joining Andrea was Finbarr O’Brien, De La Salle Rugby Club, where Titilayo's son has become involved in the club. Statement from the Department of JusticeThe Department cannot comment on individual cases.The Department takes all necessary steps to manage the international protection process efficiently and effectively, while ensuring the integrity of those processes is maintained at all times.People can apply for international protection in Ireland if they have come to escape persecution in their own country or if they cannot return to their country because they have a well-founded fear for their safety.Both the International Protection Office (IPO) and the International Protection Appeals Tribunal (IPAT) are fully independent in deciding whether or not to grant international protection. Each application is examined individually on its own merits, in line with national and international asylum law.People who have been refused international protection and have exhausted the appeals avenues through the IPAT are entitled to submit a request to review their permission to remain where their circumstances have changed since their initial application. If successful, they will be granted permission to remain in Ireland. If the permission to remain review is refused the persons will have the option of voluntary return, which if not accepted will in the normal course lead to the making of a deportation order.If a person’s application for international protection is refused and they are ordered to leave the State they must do so. Their case to remain in the State has been considered in detail and the appeals processes have been concluded. Before a deportation order is made the person is offered assistance to return home voluntarily. This is the preferred option and the Department runs a  voluntary return programme to assist people to return prior to a deportation order issuing.

Has your train line been closed for a few months?  Or maybe there’s a new one due to open near you and you’re wondering when?Joining Andrea to answer all your rail-related questions was Barry Kenny of Irish Rail.

Over the past week and a half, we’ve been hearing from parents of children with disabilities who are living with constant fear, anxiety, and deep frustration at the lack of support for their children when their parents are no longer here. Their stories have been powerful, and the emotional toll on families is impossible to ignore.Joining Andrea was another parent whose son has managed to secure accommodation. Mary O’Donnell she told Andrea about her experience on trying to get care for son.

In a bid to tackle Frances declining birth rate  every 29-year-old in the country will receive a letter encouraging them to have babies before it’s too late.What do you think of this? Is it a good approach? Or a bit heavy-handed?Joining Andrea was Helena Tubridy, Fertility coach, and Newstalk's own Laura Hannon and listeners who joined Andrea with their opinions

We’ve been breaking down all the most instrumental elements of exercise over the last few weeks- and how sometimes embracing simple things can be the most important.This week, we’re looking at walking – often overlooked and probably underrated- should we embrace it more?Joining Andrea was John Belton, Head coach and owner of No.17 Training who brought in a walking pad for Andrea to try.

We all need a bit of inspiration in the kitchen, but have we moved away from the traditional cookbook altogether, with TikTok changing our food habits once and for all? Joining Andrea was Chef Daniel Lambert, Keith Grant Master Butchers in Roundwood, Wicklow and Aileen Cox Blundell Nutritionist, and known on Instagram as @babyledfeeding

linked to murder, attempted murder, or serious threats of violence.In response, advocacy groups and political leaders have warned that repeat offending while on bail exposes deep systemic failures, including weak enforcement, prolonged court delays, and chronic under-resourcing within the justice system.This has raised pressing questions about why high-risk offenders are being granted bail in the first place, and whether stricter legal measures are necessary to better protect the public and prevent further crimes.Andrea was joined by One of the founders of SAVE action group – the sentencing and victim equality group, Kathleen Chada, Shane Gleeson who runs five Spar shops in Limerick city, aswell as callers who voiced their opinions.

Dr. Nina Byrnes, GP at Generation Health Medical Clinic  joined Andrea Gilligan to tackle your medical queries.

Over the last week we have been speaking to the parents of adult children with disabilities about their worries about what will happen to the children they care for full-time, after they die...This issue was brought up in the Dail and we are continuing to be inundated with families contacting us to share their stories.Andrea was joined again by Tony Murray of the  Before We Die Campaign, Jill O'Brien  and Newstalk's Ciaran Bradley to reflect on the difference between the UK and Irelands model of care.

Do rugby fans get a bad name?And is the South County Dublin stereotype unfair to put on fans going out to watch the games?Gerry Thornley, Mick in Tralee and GAA fan Tony joined Andrea to discuss

Welcome to The Pod Squad!We review podcasts every week so you always have something new to listen to.Tom Douglas & Sarah-Jayne Tobin joined Andrea to give their reviewImage: Wall Street Journal

Across Ireland, many people are struggling to buy homes due to a severe housing shortage and soaring property prices. Even buyers who have secured mortgage approval face daily frustration as they are drawn into competitive bidding wars.As bids continue to rise, homes are frequently selling far above their asking prices, pushing homeownership further out of reach for many people.What causes a bidding war and does we need to get rid of them completely to make housing more affordable?  Joining Andrea was Hunters MD estate agent, Rowena Quinn, Newstalk’s own, Barry Whyte and listeners who have first hand experience of bidding wars.

For this week’s Ask Me Anything, Andrea was joined by Former Ambassador Bobby McDonagh to answer any of your questions!

Tattoo regrets, have you a tattoo that you wish you hadn’t got? Have you had one removed?Brooklyn Beckham has apparently removed one of his tattoos which had the word ‘Dad’, in the latest carry on in their feud.Joining Andrea was Aidan O’Connell – Owner of Fade Laser Studio and Holly Carpenter

On Wednesday, we spoke to Tony Murray who is in his 70s and caring for his 42 year old daughter Aoife who has intellectual disabilities. Our conversation with Tony sparked the conversation about what happens to children who have special needs and cannot live independently after you die and we have been hearing from parents. Joining Andrea was Barbara O’Kelly in Dublin, Nicola Bardon in Dublin and Angela Tourish in Donegal.

Westlife and Boyzone come together to form a supergroup! What dreams are made of ! Keith Duffy of Boyzone fame and Brian McFadden from Westlife joined Andrea to discuss their upcoming show in the 3Olympia Theatre, Dublin on Friday April 3rd

A tragic incident occurred in Dublin City Centre yesterday afternoon when a Bus Éireann bus crashed on North Earl Street, resulting in the death of one man and injuries to three others. Since the incident, videos and images have been circulating on social media. An Garda Síochána has urged the public to refrain from sharing such footage, out of respect for the victims and their families.  Is this something the gardai should have to ask, or is it common sense to avoid taking these videos and pictures?Andrea was joined by  Entertainment and News Correspondent with the Irish Independent, Melanie Finn, Volunteer first responder, Michael, Mark McLaughin, Secretary, Buncrana Hearts,  Newstalk’s tech correspondent Jess Kelly and Clodagh in Dublin  to discuss.

Breakfast Briefing Presenter Shane Beatty joined Andrea with plenty of stories from around the country this week!

We’ve decided to do a deep dive on some of our favourite albums to explore the stories behind them.What did the artists really think of each other? Where did the inspirations from the songs come from?Joining Andrea to discuss is Head Tour Guide at the Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum Experience, Alan Buckley, who’s going to talk through Jolene by Dolly Parton.

Its one of the focal points of activity in our homes. The KitchenSo this week on the Home Squad we discuss all things kitchen, including whether islands are worth it.Joining Andrea to discuss is Jenny Sheehan, Irish Examiner Columnist and former winner of ‘Home of the Year’ (@workerscottage on Instagram) and Interior Architect and Founder  of NRD Designs Natasha Rocca Devine

Ireland take on France in the opening match of the Six Nations tonight, and some fans have decided to head to the cinema to watch it...With Omniplex cinemas screening the match, we’re joined by Mark Anderson, Director General of the Omniplex Cinema Group, Shane Byrne, former Ireland rugby player and Orla McElroy, Sports Editor of the Irish Mail on Sunday