Lunchtime Live

The Deposit Return Scheme has encouraged many people to recycle plastic bottles in order to reclaim their deposit. With return machines now available in grocery stores across the country, the initiative has made it easier for people to return bottles and receive their money back.However, the scheme has also caused disruption across Dublin City, as some individuals have begun overturning public bins in search of discarded bottles to earn money.While the scheme was introduced to increase recycling rates, it has instead highlighted an unintended consequence, creating new challenges for the city.  Listeners joined Andrea to discuss the Re-turn scheme and whether it has resulted in unintended consequences

It's How I live well time! Where someone joins to discuss what they do to improve their life...Professor Mary Ryan, Endocrinologist joined Andrea this week for For our How I Live Well, to talk about the thyroid- what does it do? And when can it go wrong?

How much do you pay to get your haircut?A salon in Dublin has said that they have 1,000 people on the waiting list and their prices start at €96!Andrea was joined by Katie Gallagher – Spin  Barry Whyte – Newstalk’s Chief Reporter, Aido from Neighbourhood Threat Barber Salon in Dublin, Angie Dromgoole, Director of Zeba Hairdressing and Cathal O’Sullivan to discuss whether getting a haircut has become to expensive.

Block Rockin' Beats DJ and  Today FM presenter Dec Pierce joined Andrea to discuss being recently diagnosed with Breast Cancer. Breast Cancer among men is quite rare, and many men aren't even aware that they can get it. Dec joined Andrea to share his story of diagnosis and treatment and to raise awareness among men to be aware of diseases and to seek medical help if they have concerns.

The Rewind 1986 with Henry McKean 12pm Bank Holiday Monday the 2nd of February on Newstalk. It was the year of Top Gun. Crocodile Dundee and The Mission. Maradona and the Hand of God. The Challenger Space Shuttle disaster. Chernobyl. And the biggest hit of the year, Chris De Burgh’s Lady in Red. Chris De Burgh talks about his friend Diana loving the song, how Pat Kenny influenced him to write it. And the song going to number 1 in 28 countries. It’s the 40th anniversary

For this week’s Ask Me Anything, Andrea was joined in the studio by her new colleague here at Newstalk, Claire Byrne.

Children’s book author, Julia Donaldson, is under fire for the language used in her book, The Highway Rat.  In it she writes ‘The highway rat grew horribly fat from eating up everyone’s dinner.’ This has been highlighted online by body image speaker Alex Light who says she won’t be reading that line to her son, even though she loves the author.  I want to know what you think. Should children’s authors be more mindful about the language they use? Should we be combing through our best-loved fairy tales to make sure they’re not insulting or insensitive? Or is that all a bit OTT? They are only stories after all.  Andrea was joiend by Children's book author, Benji Bennett, Entertainment journalist, Sarina Bellissimo, Katie Makk Host of The Opinions Matter Podcast, Aideen Finnegan, Presenter of Early Edition from the Irish times and Rebecca Horan, parenting podcaster and mother of 2.

Move over Matt Damon, there’s a new Hollywood mega star in town....It’s been reported that 62-year-old Brad Pitt is in Dalkey in South County Dublin for the next two weeks to film scenes for his upcoming A24 production, The Riders.  We all remember the famous picture of Matt Damon there in 2020 with the Supervalu bag, will Brad be more of a Dunne's Store man?Joining Andrea to fill us all in was Kendra Becker – Editor Goss.ie and Katie Gallagher from Spin.  

BlurbMany people plan their year around the number of weddings they have to go to. Whether your flying abroad to celebrate someone’s special day or you are going somewhere local, weddings can often come with lot of expenses. The likes of hotels, hair and makeup and an outfit for the big day can all add up.  With all of these costs, broadcaster, Roz Purcell has expressed that she is not a fan of wedding gifts from guests and feels that people going to a wedding is a gift in itself.  Do you agree with Roz? Should a person’s presence at your wedding be enough, or should you give a wedding gift to commemorate a couple's big day? We want to hear your thoughts.  To discuss, Andrea was joined by Freelance journalist Edaein O' Connell, Wedding planner, Lyndsey Moynagh aswell as well as listeners to give their opinion.

Roisin Tansey was just three years old when she fell from the back of an armchair and injured her neck, an injury which has left her paralysed from the neck down.Last week, Roisin settled a High Court action against Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street for €4million over her care after the accident.  Roisin and her Solicitor David O’Connor from Callan Tansey solicitors  joined Andrea to reflect on her journey to justice  

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

Margaret Murphy from Tallaght lost her son Seán in the summer of 2023 when he collided with a pillar on a driveway. Following the loss of another young person on our roads last week. Margaret spoke to Andrea of the pain of losing her son, his legacy and called for stricter legislation regarding the use of scramblers on public roads.

Claire Byrne explores the big stories through the lens of real life.This podcast brings context, consequences and clarity to the issues shaping Ireland today.Covering politics and current affairs alongside the human stories behind them, Claire asks the questions people are thinking, but don’t always hear answered.From housing and health to work, family life, well-being and culture, you’ll hear smart, engaging discussion and moments of light relief - connecting the dots between what’s happening and what it means for you. And it all kicks off on February 3rd.Follow The Claire Byrne Show on the GoLoud app, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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 paintingJoining Andrea to discuss is  Jenny Sheahan -Home Squad Regular and ‘workers cottage’ on instagram  and Painter Oisin Butler from oisinbutler.ie

Oh what a beautiful morning! One of the most beloved musical songs from Oklahoma!Stephen Faloon -  The general Manager Of the Bord Gais Energy Theatre and Producer of the show joined andrea to talk about the musical coming to Dublin and as they are in the middle of auditions who they are looking for as part of the show.

The World Health Organisation has warned that Ireland is on track to become Europe’s most obese nation, yet this warning may impact some more than others.  Research has shown that body weight and health behaviors follow a pattern – one with a clear social gradient.  As Danielle Barron, Health and Medical Journalist, writes: “when worrying about bills or rent, you’re not in salad mode.”  She joined Andrea to explain her argument aswell as John Loy, Consultant Surgeon Head of Bariatric Unit at Auralia, Eoin Dolan, Principal of Mother of Divine Grace National School in Finglas  and listeners giving their opinion on the matter.

The BBC has received complaints after it started airing the Irish version of The Traitors, with viewers appalled by the language used by competitors!With swearing being commonplace among the contestants in the Irish version of the show last year.So do we have a tendency to curse a bit to much, and is it a problem ?To discuss, Andrea was joined by Eamon O Keeffe – Irish Traitor, Esther McCarthy - Irish Examiner Life/Style Editor and Chris a English Listener who lives in Ireland.

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 The making of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born to Run’

For decades, voters have flocked to local national schools on polling days. From general and presidential elections to local and European contests, the use of school buildings as polling stations has become routine—much to the delight of pupils and teachers who often enjoy a day off as a result.However, concerns are now being raised in Cork about the disruption caused to early education. The county sheriff is being urged to identify alternative polling venues, as an inordinate number of national schools continue to be used for voting purposes.Andrea was joined by Joel Loftus, Principal of St. Attracta's National School in Roscommon, Siobhan O’Neill Whyte from Mams.ie, Fine Gael councillor representing the Carrigaline LEA in Cork and teacher, Una McCarth aswell as listeners to discuss whether schools should still be used as polling stations

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…

An inquest has found that heading the football likely contributed to Gordon McQueen’s brain disease. The footballer died in 2023 aged 70, having been diagnosed with vascular dementia.Studies have also shown that footballers are 3.5 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative disease than the general public, which often stem from trauma received during childhood while playing the sport.  This begs the question – should heading be banned from football?  Andrea was joined by Dr Lisa Ryan, Head of School of Health, sports science and nutrition at Atlantic Technological University, David Wilson from off the ball and Jen Hogan  features journalist with the Irish Times

Many parts of the country have been impacted by heavy rainfall after Storm Chandra hit the East of the Country this week.  With many parts of Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow being some of the places most impacted, Andrea chatted  to some of the people whose homes and businesses have been badly impacted. And to ask what needs to change to prevent flooding in the country?  

Sex and intimacy are a big part of our lives, but for many people, they’re also a source of worry, confusion, or silence, especially after having a baby.  Andrea was joined by Psychosexual Therapist, Meg Fitzgerald, to talk about psychosexual therapy—what it is, who it’s for, and how it helps people navigate sexual and relationship difficulties in a safe, supportive way.

“I won’t lie. It was a relief when Mum finally went into a nursing home. There’s such joy in simply visiting her now, for a cup of tea and a chat.”  So writes Sinead Ryan, Host of The Home Show here on Newstalk and journalist with the Independent and Sunday Independent.  She joined Andrea to explain the relief she felt when her mother moved into a care home. And how after exploring many different care options, she found a care home was best suited to her needs.

A survey carried out by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has found that 9 in 10 consumers tip sometimes, but two-thirds believe tipping in Ireland is becoming less voluntary, with 3 in 4 believing opting out of tipping should be made easier.The CCPC has issued new guidelines for businesses on tipping, including tipping terminals being easily avoidable at checkout by being kept separate and being clearly labelled. The new guidelines come as nearly half a million euro is spent every year on accidental tips paid through contactless payments.Andrea spoke to CEO of Dublin Barista School James McCormack,  James Fahy, Co-Founder of JustTip, Hairdressing Group Owner Terence, Olivia, who has worked in hospitality and  Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent whether they feel pressured to tip.

It’s time for Ask the Expert – and today we’re talking Mortgages...Tara Duggan in for Andrea, was joined by Trevor Grant, Chairperson, Association of Irish Mortgage Advisors

Centra sold nearly 10 million chicken fillet rolls last year, helping to increase sales by 4.6 per cent to a record 2.2 billion euro.A survey last year also found that the delicacy is Ireland’s favourite lunch on the go.  So, why is it such a coveted meal? Russell Alford from 98FM & and GastroGays joined Tara Duggan in for Andrea to explain.  

A new ‘rejuvenation’ plan has been submitted for the Stephen’s Green shopping centre, after a previous plan was rejected by An Coimisiún Pleanála last summer.The proposals include expanding the building to eight storeys, adding office space, hospitality outlets, and cinema screens.  The plans not only reconfigure the inside of the building, but would completely alter the outside facade, removing the dome architecture and steel lattice work.  The proposal has prompted outcry from many locals and architecture studentsTara Duggan in for Andrea was joined by Marta, architect and PhD candidate as well as the co-founder and coordinator of the Save Stephen’s Green Campaign,  Roisin Murphy, Lecturer in Architecture and Interior Architecture, Mannix Flynn, Independent Dublin City Councillor aswell as callers giving their opnion on the plan.

France’s new child-free train carriages divide opinion.France’s state train operator SNCF rolled out a new carriage on its high-speed trains which provides a ‘quiet journey that’s ideal for working or relaxing’, the reason it’s quiet- there’s no children allowed.  To discuss whether its an idea we should consider in Ireland Tara Duggan in for Andrea was joined by Comedian Jim Elliot, Katie Makk from the Opinion Matter Podcast and Tina in Wicklow.

Therapy, I’m sure, could be good for all of us.But when you’re seeking help, where do you begin? It’s an incredibly daunting thing to face into, especially if you’re feeling vulnerable.Tara Duggan in for Andrea was joined by Michelle Flynn – psychotherapist from An Croí Beag to discuss how to choose the right therapist

Nationwide status yellow wind warnings are in force as Storm Chandra hits the country with flooding an issue in many counties.  Tara Duggan in for Andrea spoke to  Anna Daly, Jane Creegan Communications manager with Iarnrod Eireann, Wicklow County Councillor Melanie Corrigan And listeners up and down the country who are dealing with flooding today.

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

If you didn't tell Strava, did you even go for a run? That’s the question posed by Journalist Colin Sheridan. Is he right?Have we become obsessed with telling the world about our run?Joining Andrea to discuss is Colin Sheridan, as well as Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent Jess Kelly.

In March 2021, the use of illegal drugs among members of An Garda Síochána was acknowledged as a serious concern. At the time, it was announced that drug testing of Garda personnel would be introduced to prevent and deter substance misuse, with the scheme expected to come into force within six months.Five years later, routine drug testing has still not been implemented.Should members of An Garda Síochána be subject to regular drug testing?Joining Andrea to discuss is former Assistant Governor of Wheatfield Prison, Niall Spellman, former Detective Garda, John Sweetman and listeners.

A study from UCLA has found that almost half of Gen Z believe that there is “...too much sex and sexual content in TV and movies.”In line with this, actor and director Olivia Wilde has stated that they want to see less sex on their screens, as they “don’t want to see in-authenticity anymore…”So, is it true, is there too much sex on TV?Joining Andrea to discuss is Entertainment Journalist Sarina Bellisimo, Journalist Sarina Hanley and listeners.

Welcome to The Pod Squad!We review podcasts every week so you always have something new to listen to.Newstalk’s Laura Donnelly and Journalist & Stylist Laura Mullet join Andrea Gilligan to review ‘Wanging On with Graham Norton and Maria McErlane’!Image: Listen

Word of a planned boardgame on the Troubles has prompted outcry in Northern Ireland.The game, ‘The Troubles: Shadow War in Northern Ireland 1964-1998’, is currently under development, and will not be made available for several years.The proposed game allows players to play as members of different factions from the conflict, such as the IRA and the RUC, where they can plant bombs and make political deals.The company’s founder has said that the aim of the game is to educate and promote history, yet victim’s rights groups have criticized it, saying it oversimplifies a complex issue.So, is this type of game acceptable?Joining Andrea to discuss is Kenny Donaldson of the South East Fermanagh Foundation, Journalist and Author Aoife Grace Moore, Writer and Political Commentator Emma De Souza and more.Image: Compass Games

For this week’s Ask Me Anything, Stephen Gallagher, Beekeeper and Founder of Swarms.ie joins guest host Anna Daly to answer any of your questions!

Doctors have issued an urgent warning about tampon use after a teenager in Drogheda was admitted to hospital suffering from toxic shock syndrome and organ failure during her period.In Ireland, 50% of girls aged between 12 and 19 in Ireland report occasional period poverty, where financial constraints limit access to menstrual hygiene products. As a result of this, many young women do not have sufficient education on how to use sanitary products in the correct way.What do we need to look out for to prevent this happening to more women?Joining guest host Anna Daly to discuss is Dr Eleanor Galvin from Rosemount Family Doctors.

Now, it’s time to chat about duvet days - taking a day off, even if you aren’t strictly under the weather, whether that be from work or school.Is offering children the occasional day off a restorative act that could benefit their mental health or a big no no?This is the question posed by Freelance Journalist and mother Niamh O’Reilly, who joins guest host Anna Daly, alongside Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry in TCD, Siobhan O’Neill White of Mams.ie and more to discuss.

It’s an exciting day for Harry Styles fans today, as his new single ‘Aperture’ was released at midnight last night.Not only that, he also announced his 2026 tour, ‘Together Together’, last night - with shows in Amsterdam, New York, Mexico City and London.Guest host Anna Daly is joined by three of his enthusiasts, Newstalk’s own Niamh Dunne, Cathal Minogue of Today FM and Jane Cowan, Irish Examiner Columnist to share in the excitement!

Breakfast Briefing Presenter Shane Beatty joins guest host Anna Daly with plenty of stories from around the country this week!

Irish dancing is known for its high kicks, intricate footwork, and iconic curly hair, but at its core it demands years of training and dedication. As competitions become more frequent, some believe the growing focus on appearance and glamour may be overshadowing true talent.Registered Orthopedic and Strength and Conditioning Specialist Peter O’Grady warns that the modern image of an Irish dancer is becoming increasingly costly for families, and may shift attention away from skill and technique…What do you think? Should we focus more on dancing and less on the dancer's appearance?Joining guest host Anna Daly to discuss is Peter O'Grady, Registered Orthopedic and Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Irish Dance Professional. World Champion & Teacher, Ciara Sexton, Patrick O'Mahony, Designer and Digitizer for dresses, CEO of Riverdance Patrick Moyles and more.

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 mattresses!Joining Andrea to discuss is Jenny Sheehan, Irish Examiner Columnist and former winner of ‘Home of the Year’ (@workerscottage on Instagram) and Kate O’Driscoll, @victorianrathmines on Instagram.

Collagen banking is the newest anti-aging skincare trend, but what exactly is it, and how does it work?Professor Caitriona Ryan, Consultant Dermatologist at Institute of Dermatologists and Blackrock Clinic joins Andrea to discuss.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien, alongside the National Transport Authority, has announced that contactless ticketing on public transport will come into effect in 2028.This will allow passengers to pay using bank cards, phones and other smart devices, yet we are one of the last major European cities to introduce the technology.Joining Andrea to discuss this is Feljin Jose, Spokesperson for Transport for the Green Party, CEO of the National Transport Authority, Anne Shaw and more.

As Ireland gear up for their World Cup qualifiers this March, excitement is building among supporters eager to back the team in green. That enthusiasm, however, may be tested by the price of the newly released Ireland jersey, which goes on sale today.Fans looking to kit themselves out will have to dig deep. The adult jersey costs €145 for the player-fit version, while the regular fit is priced at €105. The women’s jersey also comes in at €105, and the children’s jersey will cost a steep €85.So, is this simply the price of supporting your national team in modern football, or are fans being priced out while the team’s success is being capitalised on?Andrea is joined by Freelance Sports Journalist Daniel Hussey, as well as listeners, to discuss.

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 The Saw Doctors’ ‘If This Is Rock and Roll, I Want My Old Job Back’!

There have been several calls over the past few months about removing counselling notes from victims of sexual assault and rape from trials and court cases.Paula Doyle is a rape survivor and activist who has been protesting around Dublin in aid of this. She joins Andrea to discuss.Helplines:DRCC.ieNational 24-Hour Helpline - 1 800 77 8888

It seems that every day, when we look at social media, a new person is emigrating. Typically, they’re heading off to Australia, Canada or America, with thousands of Irish people now calling those countries home. Something we see less often is people heading off to places like China, but that’s not to say there’s no Irish community out there.Newstalk Reporter Emily Keegan has taken a trip to China, and she’s spoken to some of the Irish people living there to see what life is like for them.