Lunchtime Live
5,202 episodes — Page 92 of 105
How to sort out a consumer issue with Revolut?
Our listener recently fell victim to a scam. He clicked a link and handed over his bank details. His bank accounts were hit. EBS were great and helped him get his money back, however, he says Revolut were absolutely no help and he wants to warn people about it. What to do in such case? We ask Sinead Ryan, our consumer affairs expert.
Should we all learn Irish national anthem?
A new campaign is calling on everyone in Ireland to learn the words to Amhrán na bhFiann. Rachel J Cooper, who is heading up the ‘Learn Our Anthem’ initiative says Amhrán na bhFiann should be learned in the classroom, so people don't continue to mumble it at matches... So few of us seem to know the words of the national anthem – is it time for a change? Do we need a new, updated national anthem?
Lack of support for those with cancer
When you’re diagnosed with a serious illness, it’s enough to try focus on getting the right treatment and keeping yourself strong without fighting for support at every turn. Our listener Lisa joined us to share her story.
Ghost estates in Ireland
There are over 500 households in Ireland living in so-called ghost estates. So some will be occupied but with a few shells of houses left. The Department of Housing is finalizing a survey from last year which found that there are 459 occupied houses and 63 occupied apartments remaining in locations that would be considered ‘unfinished’. These are crazy numbers when you consider our housing crisis, and the crisis we’re currently facing trying to house refugees.
The rise of the far-right movement in Ireland
Protests have taken place across the country over the last few months about the influx of refugees into the country. Some with genuine concerns around housing and facilities, but a lot using it as an excuse to spread anti-refugee hatred and racism. Has there been a rise in the far right here? Is it just that we’re seeing their views more? Or are they growing as a movement? Shane Beatty was joined by Steph Hanlon from Le Chéíle and other listeners to discuss…
Is it cheaper to go abroad for stag and hen dos?
Hen and Stag parties are back with a boom – but have they become too extravagant? Is a weekend away too much? Shane Beatty was joined on Lunchtime Live by listeners Simon, Niall and Inga to discuss...
Deer Cull: 'Why are we always reaching for the gun?'
A Tipperary TD has called for a deer cull after hitting one with his car on his way home. Jackie Cahill says the deer numbers in the country are out of control and are causing issues for farmers and drivers. Is this an issue we need to address in Ireland? Or should these animals be protected? Shane Beatty was joined on Lunchtime Live by John Tierney, Association of Hunt Saboteurs, Damien Hannigan- PRO with the Irish Deer Commission, Gerry Boland, Animal Rights Activist and other listeners to discuss…
Schools reserving places for past pupil's children 'a huge problem'
Labour TD and party education spokesperson Aodhán Ó Ríordáin wants the Government to stop the practice of schools reserving places for the children of past pupils. He claims it’s elitist. Do you agree with him? Or is it important for you to send your child to your former school? Andrea was joined by listeners on Lunchtime Live to discuss…
Calls for better cycling infrastructure to prevent accidents
A cyclist who was knocked off her bike by a truck has been told by a judge that she contributed to her own injuries by not wearing a helmet. The truck hit off her shoulder which made her lose her balance and all control of the bike. She had a head injury which meant she got a concussion and had injuries on her face, shoulder and arm. The cyclist sued the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland because the lorry was untraced. The judge awarded her €20,000 but reduced it by €4,000 because she had not been wearing a helmet, which would have minimised her injuries. Do enough cyclists wear helmets? Andrea was joined by listeners Cyril, Kathy, Conor and Cormac to discuss…
'If you want it, go for it!' - Becoming a mother later in life
Paris Hilton has announced the birth of her first child with her husband Carter Reum. The baby was born via surrogate. The US socialite and businesswoman announced the arrival on Instagram. However, many media outlets this morning have been mentioning her age in their headlines, with one of them reading: “Paris Hilton Welcomes Her First Child at 41” Andrea was joined by listeners Sarah and Mairead to discuss negativity received when having children later in life…
Decentralisation: 'The country is out of balance'
There are thousands of houses and apartments outside Dublin not being built, despite a lack of affordable housing in Ireland. Is it time we took a more radical approach to construction in Ireland? Should there be a new approach from the Government to decentralisation in Ireland? Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by listeners to discuss…
Brother of woman killed by partner calls for a domestic violence register
This week on Newstalk, we’re shining a spotlight on domestic abuse, in partnership with Allianz and Women’s Aid. As part of this campaign, Andrea was joined now by Jason Poole. Jason’s sister Jennifer was killed by her partner a few years ago. To donate to Women’s Aid and find out more about the Stand Strong movement, go to standstrong.ie
NTA city parking levy proposal 'beyond ridiculous', says business owner
Employers face being charged to keep car parking spaces for their staff in Dublin city under new proposals from the National Transport Authority (NTA). The proposal is one of a series of measures the NTA is likely to take to drastically reduce the number of cars that enter the city centre as the State seeks to meet its climate targets. Andrea was joined by Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town and listeners to discuss...
Banshees of Inisherin 'already boosting' tourism in the west of Ireland
Yesterday was a huge day for Irish cinema. Films made here and those brimming with Irish talent and scenery received a total of 14 nominations. Martin McDonagh’s ‘The Banshees of Insiherin’ picked up 9 of those nominations. What impact will this incredible popularity have on Irish Tourism? Andrea was joined by Aine McLaughlin, of Aran Island Ferries, Rosemary from Achill Tourism and Mick Lynch, the owner of Lynotts Pub in Achill to discuss…
'There's no point winning a game if you don't win it fairly'
Derry GAA Club, Glen have confirmed that they will appeal the result of Sunday’s All Ireland Club Football final after Kilmacud Crokes had an extra player on the pitch for the end of the game. But is it fair that Glen had to make that decision themselves? Should the GAA have had to make the decision? Andrea was joined by listeners on Lunchtime Live to discuss… Image: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Menopause leave 'would be very welcome' in Ireland
Ministers have rejected a proposal to introduce ‘menopause leave’ in the UK. The move has been criticised from some MPs who say that a lack of menopause legislation leaves women at risk of being driven out of the workforce. Would you like to see menopause leave here in Ireland? Andrea was joined by listeners Katherine, Sylvia, Renee and Mary to discuss…
Homophobic abuse 'stops people from staying involved in politics'
Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by Seán Burke, a member of the Social Democrats National Executive. Seán spoke about some of the homophobia he has received online since getting involved in politics and expressing his views on social media...
How sustainable are milk alternatives?
Billboards and banners across the country have gone up advertising Oat Milk, with the slogan - “It’s like milk, but made for humans.” They have caused quite an uproar with some people. Alternative milks can cause quite a firestorm with some, saying it could damage the dairy industry here. Should we all be trying to move towards milk alternatives? Andrea was joined by Liam Lynham from ‘Oat in the City’, Louise Reynolds, Dietician and Communications Manager at the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute and listeners to discuss…
B&B owner who offered rooms for refugees not contacted in 5 months
There are shocking reports that some refugees could end up homeless because of a lack of places for them. This could be down to some hotels not renewing their Government contracts, and that the refugees staying there would have to leave in the summer. But are the Government really doing everything they can when it comes to housing efforts? Are some stones being left unturned? Andrea was joined by Noel Spillane, owner of Annasceul House B&B, and listeners Marion and Janice to discuss…
Former CAMHS doctor says system isn't 'fit for purpose'
A damning interim report into Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) in Ireland has revealed that more than 100 children were left without care for up to two years. Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by parents to hear their experiences of the CAMHS service. Dr Kieran Moore a former Child Psychiatric Consultant with CAMHS also joined Andrea on the show…
Residents ‘weren’t consulted’ over cycling lane replacing on-street parking
Elaine, a listener, joined Andrea on Lunchtime Live to discuss the removal of on street parking on her road in Dublin. The parking will be replaced by a cycle lane, however residents say they had no consultation up until last week..
Damp and mould problems 'getting worse' in Cork social housing
A Cork TD has been flooded with responses after putting out a call for issues in social housing. Thomas Gould had over 130 replies from tenants with damp and mould problems in their homes. Some of them say they’ve been living in these conditions for years and aren’t being listened to. Andrea was joined by Antoinette and Jennifer who both live in Cork to discuss..
Woman threatened on Irish Rail by passenger with no ticket
Monica, a listener, got in touch with Lunchtime Live about a recent experience on Irish Rail. A woman wouldn’t move her bags to let her family sit down in the seats they had pre-booked and was abusive towards Monica and her family…
Dogs in pubs: 'We have to move with the times in Ireland!'
Would you like to see more dogs allowed in pubs, cafes and shops? According to the Belfast Telegraph this morning, making your establishment dog friendly leads to increased levels of trade. Five years ago, a law dating back to the '50s which prevented people from bringing pets into restaurants and pubs was officially repealed. Would you like to see more dog friendly businesses? What do you think about the idea of dogs in pubs? Andrea was joined by Mossy, from the Blackbird in Ballycotton, Naoise, Co-owner of Surge café in Clontarf and other listeners to discuss..
Public dental system for children 'an absolute nightmare'
Children in Ireland are waiting up to 13 years to see a dentist. That's the stark warning from the Regional Group of independent TDs. It's bringing a motion before the Dáil later today, calling for the government to immediately reform the public dental system. Have you experienced delays in getting a dental appointment? Andrea was joined by Fintan Hourihan, Chief Executive of the Irish Dental Association, Dr Bernie Fee, Fee Dental Carrickmacross, Siobhan O’Neill White, Founder of Mams.ie and other listeners to discuss…
'We are in danger of losing our best' due to rise in emigration
Newstalk Breakfast presenter, Ciara Kelly spoke candidly this morning about her feelings as her son emigrated to Australia yesterday. What is causing this spike in emigration in Ireland? On Lunchtime Live this afternoon, Andrea was joined by listeners who have first hand experience of how emigration affects families differently...
Calls for more sheltered villages for older people wanting to downsize
Local authorities should accelerate programmes to encourage people to downsize their properties, according to the Housing Minister. There are 8,600 under occupied social housing units in Dublin. Minister Darragh O' Brien says there should be increased use of existing schemes to facilitate those who want to downsize. Should people be incentivised to move out of their homes? Should there be grants or help offered to older people to get them out of larger empty properties and into smaller, more suitable houses, to free up some of that space? Andrea was joined by listeners on the show to discuss…
'Absolutely humiliated!' - Paralympian refused from restaurant with guide dog
Paralympian Martin Gordon and his guide dog were refused entry in a Dublin city restaurant over the weekend. Martin joined Andrea Gilligan on Lunchtime Live alongside a listener Fergus to discuss...
Coming Out in Rural Ireland: 'The stigma's still there'
What is it like to be gay in rural Ireland? LGBT Ireland is aiming to expand Pride events into rural towns to improve Ireland as a country for members of the community. Did you come out in rural Ireland? What was the experience like? Andrea was joined by Paula Fagan, CEO LGBT Ireland, Paul and Ciarán to discuss...
Andrew Tate influencing 'vulnerable' teenage boys in Ireland
Andrew Tate is a controversial social media character, with many saying he is stoking hatred of women, while others argue that he is misunderstood in his views. Are people concerned about the influence he has on young men in Ireland? Andrea was joined by listeners; Annette, Robin, Edward, Ben and more to discuss... Image: Twitter @Cobratate
Owners of defective apartments 'slightly cautious' of new Government scheme
The Cabinet is to approve a scheme to repair Celtic Tiger apartment defects which could cost the State up to 2.5 billion euro. Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien is bringing the memo which will cover fire, structural safety and water caused defects on apartment buildings and duplexes built between 1991 and 2013. It means that the redress scheme for apartments alongside the upcoming redress scheme for those affected by mica could cost the state over 5 billion euro. Andrea was joined by Pat Montague, spokesperson with the Construction Defects Alliance, Andrew, Sam and other listeners to discuss…
Oireachtas aim to 'get to the bottom of' HSE bullying claims
The Oireachtas Health Committee is to discuss the issue of bullying within the health service. It'll discuss the health, safety and wellbeing of frontline health care workers with trade unions. TD and Sinn Fein's Health Spokesperson David Cullinane joined Andrea on Lunchtime Live to give an update on the situation...
Bus driver was threatened with being stabbed on Dublin route
Gardai have been travelling on buses to Tallaght in recent days to tackle anti-social behaviour there. Do you feel safe on public transport around Ireland? When you get the bus to work? Or the Luas late at night – are you ever worried? Are Transport Police needed on all public transport? Andrea was joined by James a bus driver in Dublin, Damien a retired bus driver and other listeners to discuss…
Weight Invisibility: 'It's a different world in a slimmer body'
Andrea spotted an interesting post from a woman online which has gotten quite a reaction. It reads: ‘Having gone from a size 18 to an 8 in my twenties, to now post baby being a 14, I can confirm that this is the size at which you become invisible and can visibly irritate some strangers (men) by making small talk with them.’ What do you think? Can weight gain make you feel invisible? Andrea was joined by Sinead, Alice and Nicola to discuss on Lunchtime Live…
'The atmosphere is gone completely in the Aviva Stadium'
Should you be allowed drink during a sporting match? The IRFU have released survey findings that show that 68% of those asked said they would not support a booze ban in the Aviva stadium. What do you think? Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by listeners to discuss...
Homework 'doesn't work in it's present form for primary school'
With schools back in full swing, households all over the country are getting back into their routine, how big a part does homework play in that routine? Is it something that takes up a big part of the evenings? Or does it fit easily into the afternoon after school? Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by listeners to discuss…
Kenny: HSE must review bullying protocol
Lunchtime Live received an email from a listener working in the health service who had been discouraged by senior management from partaking in online discussion around bullying in the health service. The issue was raised last week on the show and the response has been phenomenal. Gino Kenny, People Before Profit TD for Dublin Mid West joined Andrea to discuss…
Meath Councillor says some refusals of social housing are reasonable
Last year more than 1,500 social housing offers were refused. New figures obtained by Newstalk show the number of people declining a house is rising, since 2019. At least 420 people have been suspended from their waiting lists for refusing more than one offer. Is it fair that people can be kicked off waiting lists for refusing social housing offers? Andrea was joined by Peter Dooley from the Dublin Renters Union and Nick Killian, Independent Councillor and Chairperson of Ratoath Municipal District to discuss..
INMO: Culture of bullying in HSE 'has to change'
Lunchtime Live has been inundated with nurses and healthcare workers sharing their stories and experiences of workplace bullying in the HSE. Sinn Fein Health Spokesperson David Cullinane said he’s going to raise the issue in the Dail, but what are the unions doing about it? Phil Ní Sheaghdha, General Secretary with the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation joined Andrea on the show to discuss…
Health warnings on wine 'means the price per bottle will go up'
Should wine come with a health warning? Italy’s largest farmers’ association have strongly voiced their concerns about Ireland’s plans for what they’re calling “alarmist” health warning labels on wine. Do you agree with the labelling? Would it affect your wine consumption? Andrea was joined on Lunchtime Live by Michelle Lawlor from The Nude Wine Company, Dr. Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland and listener Greg to discuss…
Anti-refugee protests 'have really escalated' across Ireland
At least nine anti-asylum-seeker protests are due to take place at different locations around the country from 5pm today. Do you support the protests? Or is there a better course of action to air your views? Andrea was joined by listeners to discuss if they support the protests...
Banning hugging and relationships in schools 'is dehumanising'
A secondary school in the UK has banned any physical contact between pupils – including hugs and handshakes – and has also outlawed any romantic relationships among their students. Hylands School in Essex says the move encourages pupils to ‘behave professionally as any future employer would expect.' Andrea was joined by listeners on Lunchtime Live to discuss…
'They set you up to fail' - Continued reports of bullying in the health service
Lunchtime Live continues to receive reports from listeners of bullying in the HSE. Tadgh, a former clinical nurse manager and Jennifer Foster, from the Better Working Life campaign joined Andrea on the show this afternoon...
Cullinane: HSE management haven’t received bullying training in 7 years
David Cullinane, TD and Sinn Féin Health Spokesperson joined Andrea Gilligan on Lunchtime Live to discuss the ongoing bullying in the health service and what Government can do in in response...
Irish man on hunger strike in Iran 'weak and in pain'
An 64 year-old Irish man has been on hunger strike in an Iranian prison since January 1st. Bernard Phelan believes he’s being held there as a political pawn and denies all the charges the Iranians have held against him since His sister Caroline Phelan joined Andrea on the show to discuss.. Image: Twitter Bernard Phelan @MasMingou
Man living with Parkinson’s says medicine shortage is ‘unacceptable’
Users of long term prescription medication say they feel like their lives are being messed with amid the current medicine shortages. There are currently 216 medicines running low or out of stock in Ireland. They include common over-the-counter remedies like dry cough syrups, sore throats sprays and lozenges. But they also stretch to long term medication that people rely on on a regular basis. Andrea was joined by Gary Boyle, who is living with Parkinson's disease, Kathy Maher, Community Pharmacist from Haven Pharmacy in Duleek, Co Meath and Julie to discuss…
Sharing images of your kids online: ‘They’re not needed on my account’
Ann-Marie O’Sullivan is writing in today’s Irish Independent: ‘I erased every single one of my children’s photos online: here’s how and why to delete your kids from social media.’ Ann-Marie joined Andrea on Lunchtime Live to discuss why did she decided to remove her children’s photos from online…
Bullying is 'rife' within the health service in Ireland
Kate, a former nurse spoke yesterday on the show about her experience of bullying in the health service. Overnight, Lunchtime Live received a number emails from staff highlighting the issue further. Olivia, a senior clinical therapy manager and Barbara, a retired nurse joined Andrea on the show to discuss...
Need for ‘more sustained structure’ of driver testers in Ireland
Robyn, a listener go in touch with the show about the waiting times to sit your driving test. Robyn and Brenda Bolger owner of Bolger school of motoring in Kilkenny joined Andrea on Lunchtime Live to discuss...
Woman 'left nursing completely' due to impact of bullying
Last week on Lunchtime Live, Andrea spoke to listeners about bullying in the workplace. Kate, a listener sent an email into the show about bullying she experienced while she was working as a nurse. Kate joined Andrea on the show to discuss...