The Pat Kenny Show
Newstalk
Pat brings you the sharpest analysis of news and current affairs on the radio and fresh perspectives on the issues that will define a generation. Breaking news is interwoven with reflective news features and reports from a variety of reporters based across the country. Experts are on hand to guide listeners on everything from consumer and employment rights and health issues to savvy holiday options. And Pat is joined by all the best personalities from the entertainment world.Listen and subscribe to The Pat Kenny Show on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts and Spotify.Download, listen and subscribe on the Newstalk App. You can also listen to Newstalk live on newstalk.com or on Alexa, by adding the Newstalk skill and asking: 'Alexa, play Newstalk'.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 13, 2025 • 12min
Gillian Sherratt, Mum of Harvey Morrison
Gillian Sheratt, the mother of Harvey Morrison and a passionate campaigner for health accountability, shares her heartbreaking journey after her son's tragic death due to treatment delays. She discusses the long-awaited statutory inquiry into scoliosis and spina bifida care, expressing relief but also cautious optimism. Gillian outlines the systemic neglect in children's health care, the alarming removal of children from waiting lists, and the need for a thorough investigation to ensure no child is left behind. Her advocacy aims to create a lasting legacy for Harvey.
Nov 13, 2025 • 21min
James Browne TD, Minister on the new housing plan
James Browne TD, a Fianna Fáil politician and Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, discusses the newly launched housing plan aiming for 300,000 homes by 2030. He dives into removing barriers like over-regulation and assures planning stability for developers. Browne emphasizes the importance of modern construction methods to boost industry capacity and talks about reforms in the rental sector. He also highlights plans for modular homes and state purchases of second-hand homes to activate supply.
Nov 13, 2025 • 5min
The appetite for weight-loss drugs has been insatiable
Professor Luke O'Neill, a leading biochemist from Trinity College Dublin, dives into the booming market of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, projected to hit $54 billion in 2024. He discusses the rapid demand growth and the safety concerns, particularly muscle loss associated with these treatments. O'Neill contrasts oral and injectable formulations, highlighting their effectiveness. Additionally, he sheds light on the broader impacts these drugs could have beyond weight loss, including potential benefits for addiction and heart health.
Nov 13, 2025 • 11min
Frank Greany discusses the trail of Ruth Lawrence
Frank Greany, a seasoned Courts correspondent, provides gripping insights into the Ruth Lawrence trial. He delves into the eight-year evasion as Lawrence fled to South Africa before her extradition. Greany details the chilling disappearances of Eoin O'Connor and Anthony Keegan, alongside the concealed discovery of their bodies. The evidence linking Lawrence to the crimes is discussed, including premeditation involving burner phones and a loaded gun. Testimonies from protected witnesses shaped the trial's narrative, culminating in a tense 14-hour jury deliberation.
Nov 13, 2025 • 13min
The 2 Johnnies are back for Pints In A Field 4'
Join Johnny Smacks and Johnny B, the hilarious duo behind the Two Johnnies podcast, as they gear up for Pints in a Field 4. They share the festival’s origins and how it evolved from local GAA events to a celebrated cultural gathering. Discover their journey from a DIY podcast setup to topping charts and hosting stars like Ed Sheeran. With tales of community spirit, thrilling performances, and listener connections, this chat brims with laughter and Irish charm!
Nov 13, 2025 • 12min
President Trump signed a bill last night reopening the government
Larry Donnelly, a law lecturer at the University of Galway and columnist, delves into the complexities of President Trump's connection to Jeffrey Epstein as new documents emerge. He highlights the implications of emails suggesting Trump’s prior knowledge of Epstein's activities. Donnelly also examines the political fallout from document releases, Republican divisions over transparency, and the potential long-term effects on Trump's standing within his party. The discussion emphasizes how these revelations could reshape political loyalty and voter dynamics.
Nov 13, 2025 • 13min
Blackrock Health’s new women’s health clinic
Dr. Caoimhe Hartley, Clinical Lead for Women's Medicine at Blackrock Health, discusses the launch of a dedicated women's health center. She highlights critical health conditions women should monitor throughout life, from contraception and STIs in their 30s to menopause management in their 40s. Hartley emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary care, addressing risks like cardiovascular issues specific to women, and providing insights into testosterone for postmenopausal health. She also tackles myths around contraception and the significance of informed decisions in women's health.
Nov 13, 2025 • 12min
The impact of shoplifting on businesses
Mark Smith, a retail manager at The Great Outdoors, dives into the pressing issue of shoplifting in Dublin. He reveals how necessity and addiction drive many to steal, sharing poignant personal stories. Smith highlights the role of security measures like greeting customers and CCTV in deterring theft. He discusses the tactics used by organized and opportunistic shoplifters, while also linking retail crime to broader societal challenges such as drug addiction and homelessness. As the festive season approaches, he encourages city shoppers to support local businesses despite these challenges.
Nov 13, 2025 • 10min
New speed limits are set to be introduced across Dublin city
Olivia Kelly, the Dublin Editor at The Irish Times, joins the discussion on new 30 km/h speed limits aimed at improving safety in Dublin. She tackles the challenges of enforcing regulations on e-scooters and outlines where current speed limits apply. Olivia highlights legislative hurdles in making 30 km/h the default limit and discusses the city council's plans for selective higher speeds on non-residential roads. They also delve into how these changes may impact transit times and enhance road safety, pointing to statistics on survivability at reduced speeds.
Nov 12, 2025 • 9min
Keir Starmer under pressure in UK
Wes Streeting, a Senior UK government minister and former Health Secretary, discusses the whirlwind of speculation surrounding potential leadership challenges to Keir Starmer. He denies rumors about his own ambitions and critiques Downing Street's behavior. Alongside Tim Bale, a Politics Professor at Queen Mary University, they dissect Labour's strategies on immigration and reform, analyzing their implications for core voters. Bale also delves into broader political dynamics, including Trump’s ongoing legal battles with broadcasters and issues surrounding UK-US intelligence sharing.
