The Hard Shoulder

Off The Ball's Eoin Sheahan joined Ciara Doherty on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action.

There has been a call for public support for a full inquiry into the Creeslough explosion in 2022.It’s from the parents of Leona Harper, who was 14 when she was killed in the explosion at apartments above the Creeslough service station on October 7th, 2022.The tragedy claimed the lives of 10 local people aged from 5 to 59.Hugh Harper, Leona’s father, joins Ciara Doherty to discuss…

US President Donald Trump has made renewed calls to annex Greenland, but how do locals feel about the situation?Josh Crosbie is in Greenland to hear from the public, and joins Ciara to discuss.

Working age adults in the UK eat the equivalent of 22 crisp bags worth of salt every day, according to research by the British Heart Foundation.What’s the situation in Ireland, do you know how much salt you have every day?Joining Ciara to discuss is Dietician Sarah Keogh.

The Oireachtas Transport committee is to draw up an action plan with the aim of reducing fatalities on Irish roads. To discuss the potential of the plan, Ciara is joined by Chair of the Transport Committee and Fine Gael TD, Michael Murphy, and Jimmy Cleary of Success 4U Driving School.

Sarina Bellissimo, Broadcaster and Presenter of the Bellissimo Files Podcast and Dee Reddy, Entertainment Journalist and Podcaster joined Ciara Doherty on The Hard Shoulder to review the latest TV and movie releases…

ICE kills woman in Minneapolis - what happens now?Mayor of Minneapolis Jacob Frey has demanded that ICE (United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement) leave Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of a woman, who US officials accused of trying to ram federal immigration agents with her vehicle at an apparent immigration enforcement activity in the south of the city.For more on this, Ciara is joined by Boston-based Immigration Attorney, John Foley and Paul Brandus, West Wing Reports Founder.Image: Reuters

Broadcaster Louise Cantillon joins Ciara Doherty for this week’s Thursday Interview!

It has been confirmed that Ireland will vote against the Mercosur trade deal tomorrow. However, it is still expected that the agreement will be approved by the EU.To discuss these developments, Ciara is joined by President of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, Denis Drennan, Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist with the Institute of International and European Affairs and Columnist at The Currency, John McGuinness, Fianna Fáil TD Carlow - Kilkenny and Michael Healy-Rae, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine and Independent TD for Kerry.

Céire Sadlier, Irish Times contributor, had a really interesting piece on why she resisted having a phone until the age of 19, despite her parents wanting her to have one, a concept lost on many young people today.She joins Ciara to discuss her own experience, and how that greatly differs to that of her own child's today…

US President Donald Trump has been saying that the US would pull out of dozens of international and UN groups that, as he puts it, operate contrary to their interests.It comes after a week where a Russian-flagged oil tanker was seized, and, of course, the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro was captured.In the days since, his frequent musings about other items on his foreign policy wish list have rung with renewed force, especially his repeated desire for the US to take over Greenland.Joining Ciara to discuss is former United States Ambassador to Denmark, Carla Sands.Image: Reuters

A new report in the UK shows that one in five funerals are opting for the no-frills approach, without mourners or a service. So, are attitudes changing towards funerals closer to home?To discuss this, Ciara is joined by David McGowan of Foley & McGowan’s Funeral Home Sligo, and McGowan’s Crematorium in Colloney, Co Sligo.

Father Stuart McGovern, a former engineer, was ordained for the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore nearly 2 months ago, just ahead of the busiest time of year for his vocation.To discuss his journey behind the decision to enter the priesthood, he joins Ciara.

Life can be full of confusing things, but no need to worry! Every Wednesday, Simon Tierney will be showing you ‘How to do Stuff’ - bringing his best tips for those things you might not think about.This week, Simon joins Ciara to discuss how you can properly sport a moustache!

For this week’s Tech Takeover, Jess Kelly, Newstalk’s Technology Correspondent joins Ciara Doherty to discuss the ‘Ship Accounts’ trend and why it’s causing issues in schools.

Every week for The Ultimate Guide on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world.This week, Fionn joined Ciara Doherty to give the ultimate guide to Pisa in Italy!

Key Ukrainian allies met today in Paris to discuss security guarantees, as they work through the US-brokered plan to end the war with Russia.The leaders of around 35 countries attended the summit known as the ‘Coalition of the Willing’, including American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and President Zelenskyy.But, there were indicators this afternoon that the summit may be overshadowed by growing alarm in Europe about President Trump’s threats to annex Greenland, with six European countries coming together to release a statement which rallied support for Denmark stating that "Greenland belongs to its people, and only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters concerning their relations".Helen McEntee, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister for Defence was at this summit today, and joins Ciara Doherty to discuss.

Enoch Burke is expected to initiate legal action against the Disciplinary Appeals Panel.The panel last met before Christmas and will be reconvening to determine whether Burke was fairly or unfairly dismissed by Wilson’s Hospital School.Shane Phelan is Legal Affairs Editor for the Irish Independent, and joins Ciara Doherty to discuss.

Nestlé has recalled a range of their SMA infant formulas and follow-on formulas due to the possible presence of cereulide.To discuss this move by Nestlé, Ciara is joined by Microbiologist and Lecturer in Allergen Management, Dr Orla Cahill.Image: Nestlé

Radio DJ and Presenter Suzanne Kane joins Ciara Doherty to place her favourite book on The Hard Shoulder Bookshelf!

The UK government is considering the implementation of mandatory eye tests for drivers over 70 as part of road safety measures. Should we follow suit here, and at what age should these tests be required from?Joining Ciara to discuss is Arthur Cummins, Ophthalmologist.

Stephen Miller, the US Homeland Security Advisor, spoke with Jake Tapper on CNN and said that Greenland should be part of the United States, and that it’s always been part of President Trump’s plan…Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said in an interview that if the US invades Greenland, it will spell the end of NATO.Six European countries have rallied to support Denmark stating that "Greenland belongs to its people, and only Denmark and Greenland can decide on matters concerning their relations".Where does that leave Europe, its stability and how robust is NATO?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is David Rennie, Geopolitics Editor with The Economist and Lin Mortensgaard from the Danish Institute for International Studies.

Many British Airways premium flyers will be unhappy from this week, as their Club Europe members will now not have an English Breakfast as part of their food options. Instead, they’ll be served a continental breakfast.Do you really care about what food you get on an airoplane? And why does plane food taste so different to food on the ground?Joining Ciara to discuss is Professor Charles Spence, Experimental Psychologist at the University of Oxford.

Coimisiún na Meán has said it is engaging with the European Commission over concerns that Elon Musk's AI tool Grok is being used to create sexually explicit images of women and children on X.But, does more need to be done?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is Regina Doherty, Fine Gael MEP for Dublin.

There has been a steady decline in part time weekend jobs, with a shift away from teenagers getting their first job at an early age. The decline of the ‘Saturday job’ means young people are no longer ready for work in the modern work environment.Henry McKean has been out asking the public about work, and joins Ciara to discuss.

As the next phase of Dublin's traffic plan is implemented this year, wider cycle lanes will be introduced - resulting in improvements for cyclists and a reduction in road space for cars. What impact will this have on traffic in the city?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is Brian Caulfield, Trinity College Dublin Professor in Transportation and Damien O’Tuama, National Cycling Coordinator for the Irish Cycling Campaign.

From July, Ireland will host the EU Presidency. It’s reported that this will cost the state over 293 million euro. So, what exactly is the return on investment?  Joining Ciara to discuss the relevance of the EU presidency, the logistics of hosting it in Ireland and the massive security operation around was Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with Euronews and Conor Gallagher Crime and Security Correspondent with the Irish Times. …

As sober socialising may be the goal for many in this month, as ‘Dry January’ takes hold, some couples are also opting for ‘Dry Weddings’. But what is the best way to cater for your guests at a dry wedding? Should you give them notice in advance?Joining Ciara Doherty with advice was Sarah Kenny, Wedding expert and owner of The Irish Wedding Blog

This week on Kids Clinic, Ciara Doherty, psychotherapist and author Iseult White.   and going to be discussing night terrors and how to deal with them not only for your children but for yourself too.

The Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said the Government's view was that it "never accepted the legitimacy of the Maduro regime", but has said he wants a peaceful transition to a democratic regime.  It’s as Nicolas Maduro appeared in court today after his weekend capture by US forces. He pleaded not guilty to charges. Joining Ciara Doherty with the latest and to discuss the implications of his ousting as president was Harriet Alexander  senior features reporter for The Times and The Sunday Times, based in New York, Dr Valesca Lima Assistant Professor of Politics at the School of Law and Government and researcher in Latin America  and Jerry McDermott is the owner of McDermott Realty Associates and former Sheriff of Norfolk County.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has started his 4 day official visit to China, his first since 2012 Earlier he met with the Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing and our reporter Emily Keegan is accompanying the Taoiseach on this visit she joined us from Beijing for the latest on the trip and what is on the agenda.

Ruben Amorim has been sacked after just 14 months in charge at Manchester United.  It follows Sunday’s draw at Leeds United, which leaves them 5th in the Premier League table. Why has he gone, and what now for the club? Sports journalist Daniel Hussey joined Ciara Doherty  to discuss

According to business group IBAL, coffee cups are the most commonly found litter and questions whether reusable cup schemes are working. To discuss the issue Ciara Doherty was joined by Colin O’Byrne, of VOICE Ireland, and Will Monaghan, owner of One Society on Gardner St.

Cold conditions are expected to continue overnight, with further weather warnings issued around the country. There were a large number of schools closed today across the North West region in particular, and there are some concerns that closures may continue.  Ciara Doherty was joined by a Meteorologist with Met Eireann, Liz Walsh, and Independent Councillor for Donegal County Council, Niamh Kennedy.

This week Emmet Oliver was joined by Saoirse Hanley Irish Independent columnist and Niamh O’Reilly to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…

An Irish hospital has been trialling an AI tool that will allow cancer patients to report their symptoms via their phone.  The tool, developed by Irish company eAltra, gives medical teams the chance to assess the needs, concerns and health of patients in advance of their arrival at their appointment and also decide if they are suitable for treatment such as chemotherapy on the day or whether it is to be postponed.  Denis Roche founder of eAltra  joined Emmet Olilver to discuss

In  the wake of the long-awaited finale of Stranger Things finally dropping on Netflix you may have seen a storm of negative reaction to the ending online. From How I met Your Mother to the infamous final season of Game of Thrones, this has become a bit of a trend, but why do we never seem satisfied with the endings of our favourite shows?Are these endings really as bad as the online conversation would have us believe and are there any universally satisfying endings? Joining Emmet Oliver to discuss is Entertainment Journalist Olivia Fahy

Off The Ball's Cameron Hill joined Emmet Oliver on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action.

1 year on from the opening of Irelands first medically supervised injection centre, Eddie Mullins, CEO of Merchants Quay Ireland joined Emmet Oliver now to discuss the importance of it and other services provided by Merchants Quay.  

Joining Emmet Oliver was Architect Dermot Bannon ahead of the new season of Room to Improve, which airs Sundays at 9:30pm on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player.

Before Christmas, flu cases were surging, with more than 3,500 confirmed cases reported. That figure has since fallen, with 1,777 cases confirmed in the most recent week. While the numbers may have plateaued, health officials are warning that pressures on the system are likely to continue in the weeks following Christmas.To discuss this further among other issues that the country is facing, Emmet Oliver was joined by the Minister for Health, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill.

Temperatures are set to plunge over the weekend with a status Yellow weather warning in place around the country, while some counties could see some snowTo give us the latest on what we can expect from the weather Emmet Oliver was joined by founder of Ireland’s Weather Channel Cathal Nolan  and by Brenda Bolger of Bolger’s Motoring School,

Justice Minister Jim O’ Callaghan has recently secured Government approval to publish the Criminal Law and Civil Law Bill 2025. One of the provisions within this bill would oblige the courts to consider a community service order in lieu of a prison sentence of up to 24 months' duration.We know our prisons are facing significant overcrowding, so could a wider use of community service ease this situation?To discuss, Emmet Oliver was joined by  Aontu leader Peadar Toibin and Former Mountjoy Governor John Lonergan.

Every week for The Ultimate Guide on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world.This week, Fionn joined Ciara Doherty to give the ultimate guide to Ljubljana in Slovenia!

Writer and Broadcaster Maia Dunphy joins Ciara Doherty to place her favourite book on The Hard Shoulder Bookshelf!

As people gear up for the fun and festivities of Christmas, the special day also comes with a number of dangers that people need to be aware of. To chat about some of these Christmas threats, Ciara is joined by Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Columnist with the Irish Medical Times, Dr Chris Luke.

Following the publication of the Criminal Law and Civil Law yesterday, the Government has set out plans to address criminality. Some of the focus has been placed on the disclosure of counselling records in sexual assault trials, and measures to address overcrowding in prisons.To discuss this, Ciara is joined by Brian Mahon, Political Correspondent with the Irish Daily Mail, Paul Lawless, Aontú TD for Mayo, and Cliona Sadlier, Executive Director with Rape Crisis Network Ireland.

As we enter the Christmas period, people tend to come into contact with a lot of wildlife, whether that’s out on a walk, or maybe around your home.Joining Ciara to discuss whether you should do anything to help them is Zoologist and Ecologist with Wildlife West Rescue, Alex Muschketat.

US President Donald Trump has said that the United States needs Greenland for “national security” after his appointment of a special envoy to the Danish arctic island triggered a new spat with Copenhagen.Joining Ciara to discuss is Dan Mulhall, Former Ambassador of Ireland to the United States.Image: Reuters

Irish Rail’s Christmas schedule adds late night services for revellers.Irish Rail will operate on a reduced schedule from Christmas Eve to New Year's Day, some extra services have been added for this weekend for any Christmas party goers.The question is: should late night services be run all year?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is Ray O’Donoghue, Dublin’s night-time economy advisor, Barry Kenny, Corporate Communications Manager with Iarnrod Eireann and Feljin Jose Dublin City Councillor for Phibsborough, Glasnevin, Drumcondra, Cabra and Ashtown, Green Party Spokesperson for Transport.