The Last Word with Matt Cooper

A recent study from the school of nursing and midwifery at Trinity College Dublin found that there’s been a steady rise in first-time mothers giving birth via caesarean section. Dr. Brian Higgins from Galway Primary Care explained the reasons behind these figures on this week’s The Last Word on Health. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page.

As further anti-refugee demonstrations were organised in parts of the country, Matt was joined by Brendan Ogle, Senior Officer at Unite and John Lannon, Chief Executive of Doras to discuss whether legitimate protests will be hijacked by the far-right. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page.

This week marks one year since the killing of schoolteacher Ashling Murphy. Her death sparked calls to improve women’s safety in Ireland. Noeline Blackwell from the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and Professor Louise Crowley from UCC’s School of Law and director of the Bystander Intervention Programme joined Matt to discuss whether any progress has been made on this in the last year. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

The Banshees of Inisherin saw huge success at the 2023 Golden Globes, winning three awards. Roe McDermott, movies editor with Hot Press joined Matt on The Last Word to discuss the likelihood of Martin McDonagh’s tragicomedy winning at the Oscars and what films are its biggest competitors. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Almost 7 in 10 people are unaware of a new tax credit brought in with the last budget, according to a survey carried out by Taxback.com. Charlie Weston joined Matt to discuss. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

ChatGPT is a new AI-chatbot launched late last year which can write stories, poems and coding solutions. But questions are now being raised about the use and boundaries of AI. Andy O'Donoghue joined Matt to explain what ChatGPT can do and why there are concerns about it. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

There were 534 people waiting for a bed in hospitals this morning as pressure on the health care system continues. Dr. Chris Luke, former emergency medicine consultant joined Matt to discuss measures he believes would help to fix the Irish health service. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

There's been a lot of anticipation for Prince Harry's memoir but with so many scandalous stories being leaked before it's published you might wonder if the book is even worth reading. Journalist Lise Hand joined Matt to give her review of 'Spare'. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Cal Thomas and Larry Donnelly joined Matt to discuss the latest stories from the US including a six-year-old shooting his teacher and classified files found at Biden's think-tank office. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup third round means that Chelsea have now been eliminated from both domestic competitions, while also sitting in 10th place in the Premier League table. Miguel Delaney and Tony Cascarino joined us to analyse where it’s gone wrong for Graham Potter’s side so far this season. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

It's been reported that John Lydon wants to represent Ireland at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool. Elaine Burke and Joe O’Shea joined Matt to discuss this, along with Prince Harry’s interview on ITV ahead of the release of his autobiography ‘Spare’.

Matt was joined by Ellen Cullen, Chairperson of the Dublin Cycling Campaign to talk about new infrastructure plans that are due to be introduced in the coming years which aim to provide safer facilities for cyclists and pedestrians. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Sarah Slattery from TheTravelExpert.ie joined Matt for our weekly travel slot to highlight the new routes that are available from Irish airports to holidaymakers this year. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Teacher and Irish Examiner columnist Jennifer Horgan is calling for schools to get rid of homework saying it is an attack on childhood. Jennifer joined Matt on The Last Word to discuss why she thinks there should be little to no homework until students are in 5th year. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Munster and the IRFU have confirmed that out-half Ben Healy will leave the province at the end of this season to go to Edinburgh. Billy Holland and Cian Tracey joined Matt to discuss whether Ireland will regret losing the 23-year-old, and the prospect of facing him in the Six Nations. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Mairead Cleary, Bauer Media news reporter and Mick Clifford, special correspondent with the Irish Examiner joined Matt to discuss the other stories making headlines this week including Prince Harry's book, dung being thrown at politicians and Andrew Tate. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

John Gibbons outlined why Europe is experiencing record warm winter temperatures, and the consequences of these changes, including ski resorts without any snow. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Whether at home or abroad, Sarah Slattery from TheTravelExpert.ie has a comprehensive list of travel deals for all budgets. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Amid concerns that numbers awaiting hospital beds could reach 1,000 this week, HSE CEO Steven Mulvaney has asked senior medical staff to work this weekend. This follows comments from Health Minister Stephen Donnelly yesterday. Tony Fitzpatrick, Director of Industrial Relations at the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation and Professor Matthew Sadlier, head of the IMO’s Consultant Committee discussed the issue and outline the concerns of hospital workers. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

It’s that time of year when people set goals for their health and fitness, but many resolutions are not sustainable in the long term. Dr. Brian Higgins, GP at Galway Primary Care outlined attainable health goals and plans for the year ahead. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

This week, Minister for Justice and Minister for Higher Education Simon Harris joined Matt on The Last Word for the Culture Club. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Sleep is extremely important for our physical and mental health but many people struggle to get enough. Helen Vaughan, psychotherapist and owner of Maynooth Counselling, joined Matt on The Last Word to talk about improving the quality of your sleep. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

RTÉ’s popular TV show Operation Transformation will return tonight. Some people have criticised the reality programme over the years for its focus on weight loss while others have hailed it as a life saver. To discuss the good and the bad of Operation Transformation, Matt was joined by Elaine Burke, host of the 'For Tech’s Sake' podcast, and Sheila Naughten, head of news at Tipp FM. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Charlie Weston joined Matt for a personal finance special to discuss how you can save money in 2023. Andy O’Donoghue, The Last Word’s tech expert, also outlined a list of apps that could be helpful if you are looking to save some cash. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Louise Cantillon, new presenter of lunchtimes here on TodayFM joined us this week for The Culture Club!Press the 'Play' button on this page to hear her choices!

Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor for The Irish Independent joined The Last Word to help get your finances in order for 2024!Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Mark Lawrenson and Tony Cascarino joined Matt to discuss whether Arsenal are genuine Premiere League title contenders. We also heard a snippet of a 2009 Last Word interview with Pele, as the Brazilian hero was laid to rest today. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

It may be a new year, but many of the same, age-old challenges face Leo Varadkar's Government. How will it fare in the year ahead? Gary Murphy from the School of Law and Government at DCU, and Daniel McConnell, Political Editor of the Irish Examiner joined us to discuss. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Incoming New York Representative George Santos is being sworn into Congress today as he faces mounting legal scrutiny. Local, state, federal and now international authorities are investigating the Republican for fabricating much of his persona and raising speculation about potential financial crimes. Marion McKeone and Larry Donnelly joined Matt to discuss this story and more. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

As the post-Christmas slump kicks in and the pressure to set and stick to regimented resolutions mount, we asked Helen Vaughan, psychotherapist with Maynooth Counseling, how to beat the January blues. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

With the World Cup over and the Premier League in full swing, Mark Lawrenson and Tony Cascarino join The Last Word for our final look into the world of soccer for 2022. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

Lise Hand, Dave Hanratty, Brianna Parkins and Eoghan Tomas McDermot join Matt to look back on some of the biggest stories to make headlines in 2022. From the war in Ukraine, to British politics going bonkers, Wagatha Christie and the slap that echoed across the world at the Oscars, we review the good, the bad and the utterly absurd. Listen back to the full conversation by pressing the 'Play' button.

Ian Guider spoke to Matt about all the major business stories that made headlines in 2022. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

For many of us, the New Year offers a fresh start and time to forge new habits. John Gibbons spoke to Matt on The Last Word about five changes we can all make in 2023 to help the environment. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button.

On the day Irish language box-office sensation An Cailín Ciúin was shortlisted for an Oscar in the Best International Film category, we spoke to the film's director Colm Bairéad. To follow, Brian Lloyd and Roe McDermott joined Matt in studio to discuss the best films on TV over Christmas. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button.

Christmas is a time to eat, drink and be merry. With two sleeps to go, beer lecturer at TUD Judith Boyle filled us in on the best beers of the year. Always drink responsibly, for the full chat click the 'Play' button on this page

Worried about heartburn and indigestion as the festive indulging gets in full swing? Dr Brian Higgins gave us tips and tricks to manage both. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button.

Are you giving or have you received a gift voucher this Christmas? Charlie Weston, personal finance editor for the Irish Independent, joined Matt to discuss what terms and conditions you should be aware of. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page.

Authors Padraig Kenny and Claire Hennessy spoke to Matt about their favourite children's books from throughout 2022. Padraig and Claire's Choices: Well Done, Mummy Penguin by Chris Haughten Frankie's World by Aoife Dooley And Everything Will Be Glad To See You edited by Ella Risbridger The Book of Secrets by Alex Dunne Run For Your Life by Claire Mitchell Big Bad Me by Aisliin O' Loughlin When Women Were Dragons by Kelly Barnhill Creature by Shaun Tan Things I Know by Helena Close My Heart And Other Breakables by Alex Barclay For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

An updated national Climate Action Plan includes targets for increased electric vehicles on roads, enough renewable energy to power all homes and businesses and better rural transport services. The plan outlines action to halve emissions by 2030 and reach net zero by 2050. Hannah Daly, professor in sustainable energy at UCC, and Social Democrats spokesperson Environment and Biodiversity Jennifer Whitmore joined Matt on The Last Word to discuss this latest plan. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

Sommelier Cathryn Bell from winerover.ie joined Matt on The Last Word to give her recommendations for the best wines to enjoy this Christmas. Recommendations: Sparkling wine - Raventós i Blanc, Blanc de Blancs, DO Conca del Riu Anoia, Penedés, Spain, 2020 White wine - Celler Pardas, Pur Xarel-lo, DO Penedés, Spain, 2017 Red wine - Bodegas Y Viñedos Raúl Pérez, Ultreia Saint Jacques, Bierzo, Spain, 2019 Red wine - Antonio Madeira Tinto, Dão, Portugal, 2019 For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

The committee investigating the January 6th invasion of the US Capitol building has recommended charges be brought against former President Donald Trump. To discuss this and the week's other US news stories Matt is joined by Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

John Caddell and Dee Reddy join Matt on The Last Word to discuss their top music choices from 2022 including music from Harry Styles, Beyonce and CMAT. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

Looking for a Christmas gift for the aspiring chef in your life or just to improve your own kitchen knowledge? Russell Alford and Patrick Hanlon, food and travel writers at gastrogays.com and Sunday Times Ireland restaurant critics, joined Matt on The Last Word to discuss their favourite cookbooks of 2022. Russell and Patrick's Choices: Blásta book series Bake by Graham Herterich Ballymaloe Desserts, Iconic Recipes and Stories from Ireland by JR Ryall The GIY Diaries by Michael Kelly Motherland by Melissa Thompson Red Sauce Brown Sauce by Felicity Cloake Middle Eastern Food Made to Share by Mezze Simply Chinese by Suzie Lee Live Fire by Helen Graves For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

Christmas is often seen as a time to open that special bottle of whiskey or indulge in wine. But what about people who don't want to drink alcohol? Vaughn Yates from the Virgin Mary Bar spoke to Matt about the different non-alcoholic drink options for people to try this Christmas. For the full chat click the 'play' button on this page

Matt was joined by Emmet Murphy, MCM Brands and Irish drinks ambassador, for The Last Word’s annual gin and whiskey tasting. See the full list of drinks that they tried below. Snow glove Gin Liqueur 20% An Dulaman marine gin Mor Gin Barts whiskey Red Silkie Teeling black Pitts Cask Strength Fercullen 15 Single Grain Single Cask Dingle Samhain Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Argentina were crowned FIFA World Cup champions after beating France in an exhilarating final on Sunday. Tony Cascarino, Mark Lawrenson and Miguel Delaney, Chief Football Writer at The Independent discussed the result which saw Messi finally win the trophy he missed out on four times previously. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Joe O’Shea & Elaine Burke, Editor of Silicon Republic, gave their tips on what to watch on TV and streaming services throughout the festive period. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

In this week’s The Last Word on Travel, Sarah Slattery from TheTravelExpert.ie looked at the popular destination of Lanzarote. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

The Qatar World Cup will come to a close when title-holders France take on Argentina in Doha on Sunday. To preview the game Matt was joined by Miguel Delaney, Tony Cascarino and Mark Lawrenson. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.