The Hard Shoulder

Members of the hospitality industry today marched on the Dáil against what they saw as a lack of action to address issues facing the sector, such as no reduction for VAT.Two people who were at the protest, Claire Nash, Member of the Cork Business Association and Paul Treyvaud, Proprietor of Treyvaud's Restaurant in Killarney and TV Chef, join Kieran to discuss more.

A list of proposals was in front of cabinet today, including a sports action plan which will look at improving sports participation for women and young girls.One measure is that research will be conducted on the barriers to sports for young girls, and how the role of school uniforms might impact participation.So, are school uniforms a barrier to taking part in sports and keeping active, and should we consider ditching them?Kieran is joined by Emma De Souza, Spokesperson & Vice Chair of votingrights.ie and Barbara Ennis Principal of Alexandra College, Dublin to discuss.

Members of the hospitality sector are marching on Dáil Éireann in a day of action on issues facing their industry such as the rising costs of operations and the VAT rates.To report on what’s happened at this protest, Kieran is joined by Newstalk Reporter Barry Whyte.

Simon Harris is bringing a Dublin City Taskforce report to Cabinet today which aims to improve and develop the area...But, what recommendations would those living in the city like to see?To discuss, Kieran is joined by Holly Carpenter, Content Creator and Saoirse Hanley, Columnist and Audience Editor for The Independent.

Ryanair is launching a case to the High Court this week seeking an expedited hearing and an injunction against the I.A.A in regards to the airport's contentious passenger cap…Joining Kieran to discuss is Micheal O’ Leary, CEO of Ryanair.

Sinn Féin has found itself mired in yet more controversy following news that Brian Stanley has resigned from the party. Party Leader Mary Lou McDonald spoke to Newstalk Breakfast about the issue this morning.James Lawless, Minister of State at the Department of Transport and at the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications joins Kieran to discuss.

A few weeks ago on the show advice was given on how to help your child if they are being bullied. However, there's a chance that your child IS the one bullying.Joining Kieran to discuss how to manage that tricky situation is Tara Logan Buckley, a Senior Clinical Psychologist.

Former Fine Gael TD Kate O’Connell has ­rejected an invitation by Simon Harris to run for the party in the upcoming general election, declaring she will instead run as an Independent in Dublin Bay South.Kate joins Kieran to discuss.

According to a poll of 1,000 people conducted by Census Wide: 98% of Irish people are using streaming services, but the number of people paying for them has shrunk to 78%.So, what explains this?Tech Editor for the Irish Independent, Adrian Weckler joins Kieran to discuss Ireland’s love for the ‘dodgy box’.

It has been over a year since Hamas launched its attack on Israel on October 7th 2023, and the legacy of that continues to cast a shadow over the Middle East...Kevin Myers, Journalist and Historian joins Kieran to reflect and discuss whether or not we are being too anti-Israel.

The government has announced the ‘National Plan for Irish Language Public Services’ which aims to improve our Irish language services. However, do we do enough to encourage those who are not already fluent to speak the language?Joining Kieran to discuss is Podcaster and Broadcaster, Fionnuala Jones and Director of Bhaile Átha Cliath le Gaeilge, Mícheál Ó Nualláin.

Every week, Kieran Cuddihy will be joined by writer and broadcaster, Keith Walsh and the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…

It has been 60 years since the Billie Barry Stage School opened, which has produced some of Ireland’s biggest stars. The school is marking its 60th anniversary with the show ‘Diamonds Are Forever’ at the Gaiety Theatre from October 15th to the 19th.Joining Kieran to discuss is Lorraine Barry, Director of the Billie Barry Stage School.

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joined Kieran to look at all the different nut butters to spread on toast, or eat straight from the jar!

The Environmental Protection Agency has said the slow pace of delivery of wastewater treatment upgrades by Uisce Éireann is ‘unacceptable’.The criticism comes off the back of their Urban Wastewater Treatment report published this morning, which highlights that 16 towns and villages across the country discharge raw sewage daily because their public sewers are not connected to treatment plants.Kieran is joined by Michael Tinsley, Uisce Éireann’s Senior Wastewater Delivery Manager, to discuss.

Off The Ball's Ger Gilroy joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action…

The Hate crime legislation is heading before the Seanad next week, and one aspect that won’t be part of it is the Hate Speech offences.Is this a dropped ball for some groups that need protection?Eileen Flynn, Independent Senator and Shaykh Dr Umar Al-Qadri, Founder and Chair of the Irish Muslim Council join Kieran to discuss.

Kieran’s guest epitomises the phrase ‘household name’. He is on our TV screens, on our radio and has been our voice for Eurovision and marked his 25th Eurovision Song Contest this year.Of course, it’s Mary Whelan, and he is celebrating The National Lottery Good Causes Awards - which are taking place tomorrow in Killashee House Hotel in Naas Co Kildare.He joins Kieran to discuss.

After all the craziness this summer at Dublin Airport, a seat cap for next year is to be introduced. However, the DAA, the authority overseeing Dublin Airport, is not happy about it - and their CEO Kenny Jacobs says it will cost the economy hundreds of millions.He joins Kieran to discuss his thinking.

Tanya Sweeney from the Irish Independent recently wrote “School reunions are LinkedIn with gin and tonics, do I really want to go to mine?” Well, is she right? Should we not go to our school reunions?Henry McKean has been out asking the public, and joins Kieran to discuss.

Hand, Foot and Mouth disease cases are on the rise again as schools are back in full swing…What are the signs to look for and what do you do if your child contracts the illness?Kieran is joined by Dr Afif El-Khuffash, Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the RCSI.Image: HSE

The Kuhner Report on WRKO AM680 Radio in Boston is hosted by Jeffrey T. Kuhner, "Liberalism's Worst Nightmare," he is a conservative nationalist, who champions God, country and family.Jeff joins Kieran to discuss the damage done by Hurricane Milton in Florida, and how political response could affect the outcome of the upcoming election.Image: AP

A major breakthrough was made in the mammoth Garda investigation into the Kinahan Cartel and their leadership, with the arrest in Dubai of a Senior Kinahan Cartel Lieutenant, Sean McGovern. He will be extradited back to Ireland over the murder of Noel ‘Duck Egg’ Kirwan, and other criminal offences.How significant is this, and what does it mean for the remaining Kinahan Cartel in Dubai?Paul Williams, Crime Journalist and author, joins Kieran to discuss.

You may have caught it on BBC last night, but the movie ‘Threads’ has been called one of the scariest and most realistic depictions of a nuclear war.Joining Kieran to discuss why, 40 years later, it still terrifies is Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent.

After years in the making, the landmark Planning and Development Bill was finally approved by the Oireachtas last night, but reaction has been mixed so far.Is it a good idea? And will it help with the Housing Crisis?To discuss, Kieran is joined by Tom Phillips, Managing Director of Tom Phillips Associates.

Today is World Mental Health Day, and joining Kieran to discuss their own mental health struggles is, Architect Hugh Wallace…If you struggle with your mental health, Aware operate a freephone number at 1800 80 48 48.

The state of Florida is prepping for Hurricane Milton, which is set to hit the south of Florida tonight…Kieran speaks with Jacqui Goddard, Miami correspondent for the Times London, Royston Brady, former Lord Mayor of Dublin and Meteorologist Todd Gross ahead of the expected touchdown.Image: NOAA/AP

Kieran’s guest’s new book defines Ireland's history and culture in 100 foods, ‘An Irish Food Story: 100 Foods That Made Us’ comes out October 10th.Joining to discuss is Author, Chef and Restaurateur, JP McMahon.

Countries are re-arming in response to growing security threats. Economic security risks are leading to a rethinking of EU state aid rules, competition and trade policies. With public opinion shifting against immigration across the continent, how the EU and its members handle asylum applications from outside the bloc is rising up the agenda.Joining Kieran to discuss this is Dan O’ Brien, Chief Economist at the Institute of International and European Affairs and Senior Fellow at UCD.

Hollywood actor Mark Ruffalo has weighed in on the upcoming planning bill in a video posted online last night with Irish actress Alison Oliver, making it clear that he is against the idea.So, is he right? Should we not have liquified natural gas (LNG) terminals in Ireland?Oisín Coughlan, Chief Executive of Friends of the Earth and Brian Leddin, Green Party TD and Spokesperson for Transport, Climate Action and Environment join Kieran to discuss.

Cork and Clare kids band the ‘Cabin Krew’ went viral over the summer for their song ‘The Spark’ which got over 2 billion views! The song was recently longlisted for 2 Grammy Awards: the ‘Best Dance/ Electronic Song’ and for ‘Song of the Year’. Joining Kieran to discuss are Lucy and Kada, members of the group.Image: @thekabinstudio Instagram

Trinity College Dublin has officially renamed its former Berkeley Library after Irish poet Eavan Boland. Berkeley’s name became contentious due to his colonial past, and so the Student Union led a campaign to rename it.Jenny Maguire is Student Union President of the Trinity College Dublin, and joins Kieran to discuss.Image: Trinity College Dublin

Israel is expanding its ground offensive in southern Lebanon day after day. The conflict has resulted in the displacement of 1.2 million people from the region as they attempt to escape the horrors of war.Joining Kieran to discuss this unfolding humanitarian disaster is Deputy Representative of UNICEF Lebanon, Ettie Higgins.Image: Reuters

Legalese, language used in legal documents, has made navigating legal battles incredibly difficult for people who haven’t studied law. But now, some are saying that it’s entered into the healthcare sector.Joining Kieran to discuss is Dr. Suzanne Crowe, a Paediatric Intensive Care Consultant and President of the Irish Medical Council.

Transport Commentator Conor Faughnan joined Kieran Cuddihy to put his favourite book on The Hard Shoulder’s Bookshelf!

In 2017, Gareth Landy was told that he couldn’t have kids. He now has 2 children and a diagnosis labelling him XXY, meaning he has an extra X chromosome. But, what was his story, and why is he speaking before the Seanad today?Joining Kieran to discuss is Gareth Landy, a male fertility advocate.

Customer service in Ireland is getting worse with nearly half the top 150 brands performing poorly last year. That’s according to a new survey published today.Conor Pope is Consumer Affairs Correspondent with The Irish Times and joins Kieran to discuss.

Has the American tourist influx put the native Irish customer under pressure to tip more? Have they influenced our tipping culture from rounding up to 10% and now, in some cases, 20%?Henry McKean visited Man O' War Gastro Pub in North County Dublin, where he met Irish staff and US customers, and sent in this report.

The OPW has landed in more hot water; it has been revealed that the OPW has paid more than €300,000 in legal fees in an arbitration case on the proposed building of a National Children’s Science Museum in Dublin.Joining Seán to discuss is Social Democrat TD and member of the Public Accounts Committee, Catherine Murphy...

There are record levels of patients waiting on trolleys in Cork University Hospital the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation have said, with 98 patients waiting for admission to a bed.Overall in Ireland there are 641 patients on trolleys, with 444 of those in emergency departments.How can we tackle this and stop it from escalating?Kieran is joined by Anthony Staines, Professor of Health Systems at the School of Nursing in DCU to discuss.Image: MWP

There has been a lot of speculation as to when the next general election is going to be, but there do seem to be some signs that it’s sooner than you may think!Newstalk’s Political Correspondent, Sean Defoe, joins Kieran to discuss.

Recent studies have found that the famous ‘Body Mass Index’ is a flawed system. Instead, we should be using a new measurement: the Body Roundness Index or BRI. Simply, the process calculates how round you are, with high and low scores being dangerous.Joining Kieran to discuss is Diana Thomas from the US Military Academy in West Point, New York.

Anna Geary has her cupid bow at the ready as she is back on our screens from tonight helping the men and women from rural Ireland find love once more.Season 2 of her show Love in the Country Airs tonight at 9.35pm on RTÉ 2, and Anna joins Kieran to talk about what you can expect.

A year on from the Hamas terror attack on Israel, the conflict in the Middle East is continuing to escalate by the day.But what, if anything, does the endgame to all of this look like?Walt Kilroy, Lecturer in International Relations at DCU and Co-Director of its Conflict Institute.

For this week’s Kids Health Check, Kieran is joined by Aoife Lee, Parenting Coach at ParentSupport.ie to discuss the clothes your children or teenagers might choose to wear, and having conversations around it.

Starting from today, Dublin Bus has launched a pilot program of security guards for their services. It will run for 20 weeks, and is aiming to curb 'antisocial behaviour'.Newstalk Reporter Josh Crosbie has been getting more information, and joins Kieran to discuss.

There has been a “worrying regression” in some boys with increasing misogyny in recent years. So says Jason Poole, whose sister Jennifer was stabbed to death by an ex-partner in April 2021.Jason is calling for the introduction of standardised education on gender-based violence into our classrooms. He joins me now...

The actress who plays Princess Anna in Frozen, Kristen Bell, has apologised to parents for getting ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen stuck in their heads for years! But, is it an earworm, or just a great tune?Joining Kieran to discuss is Charlie McGettigan, Musician, Song Writer and Eurovision winner and Jen Hogan, Columnist with the Irish Times.Image: Disney

Today marks one year of the October 7th attacks, when Hamas-led militant groups led incursions into south Israel, which was the catalyst to ongoing conflict in the region.Two men who are no strangers to the issues facing these communities in Israel and Palestine are Danielle Bett, a Scottish-Israeli who works for Yachad, a Jewish pro peace movement and Aziz Abu Sarah, Palestinian Peace Activist and Journalist. They join Kieran to discuss how peace in the Middle East is still possible.

29 Ukrainians in a property in Blackrock are to be relocated to three separate hotels near Citywest, Liffey Valley and Temple Bar.The group have been living in Blackrock for almost two years, they have become a “big family”, they say.Joining Kieran to discuss this is Diana Tkachuk, Ukrainian mother, and part of the Blackrock community who is being moved to Citywest today and Denis, owner of the house in Blackrock.