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.CONVERSATION THAT COUNTS | Ireland’s national independent talk station for news, sport, analysis and entertainmentListen to Newstalk at http://newstalk.com/listenlive | Download the GoLoud app now, the new home for Newstalk
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 25, 2025 • 13min
DCC to increase rents for tenants living in social housing
Daryl Barron, a Fianna Fáil councillor and Dublin City Council group leader, defends a controversial budget approving rent increases for social housing. He explains the impact on various income levels, emphasizing protections for lower earners. In contrast, Conor Reddy, a People Before Profit Solidarity councillor, argues that these hikes will heavily burden HAP recipients and propose a rates rebate scheme to fund housing needs. The debate ignites over who really bears the cost and if tenants will accept these changes or push back.
Nov 25, 2025 • 12min
Ireland's growing number of women farmers
Sarah Madden, a journalist and reporter for Newstalk, dives into the inspiring world of women farmers in Ireland. She discusses the vital role these women play in food security and climate resilience. Sophie Bell, a third-generation farmer from Cavan, shares her personal journey of taking over the family farm and highlights the ergonomic challenges female farmers face with older tractor designs. Both guests emphasize the importance of community support, social media influence, and the nurturing qualities women bring to animal husbandry.
Nov 25, 2025 • 6min
The most annoying thing about parent-teacher meetings!
Jen Horgan, an Irish Times journalist and host of the Conversations with Parents podcast, teams up with Simon Lewis, a primary school principal and host of the If I Were the Minister for Education podcast. They dive into the ups and downs of parent-teacher meetings. Jen highlights the difference between primary and secondary experiences, revealing how primary meetings foster a more holistic connection. Simon discusses how informed parents lead to better conversations. They also touch on the frustration of parents who monopolize time, leaving others in limbo.
Nov 25, 2025 • 11min
Red card for Idrissa Gueye he slapped his teammate
In this discussion, business and life coach Mark Fennell delves into the incident where Idrissa Gueye slapped teammate Michael Keane during a match. He argues that any form of assault on the pitch should not be normalized, warning of the dangerous implications for society. The conversation also touches on emotional dysregulation in sports and how adult behavior at youth games influences children. Mark emphasizes the importance of consistent punishment for all forms of violence in sports to avoid setting a troubling precedent.
Nov 24, 2025 • 9min
Ask The Expert: Dental care
Dr. Bronagh Keane, a dental surgeon and public-facing 'tooth fairy' expert, shares invaluable insights into dental care. She addresses the damaging effects of teeth grinding, particularly in children, and offers alternatives to mouthguards. Dr. Keane discusses the importance of crowns for cracked teeth and provides cautions against whitening for those under 18. She emphasizes the need for early dental consultations for kids losing baby teeth and explains options for treating receding gums. Tune in for her practical advice!
Nov 24, 2025 • 11min
Travel with Pol: The sights of Istanbul
Travel editor Pol Ó Conghaile shares his insights on Istanbul, blending familiar sights with exotic charm. He dives into the vibrant food scene, highlighting everything from kebabs to delectable street snacks. Pol also explores iconic sites like the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia, sharing tips on navigating crowds and cultural etiquette. He celebrates the city's beloved cats and their unique place in local culture, while also giving advice on budgeting for a day of adventure amidst the famous Grand Bazaar.
Nov 24, 2025 • 13min
Reports of immigration rule changes
Sean Defoe, Newstalk's political correspondent and the voice behind the Let Me Explain podcast, dives deep into the complexities of Irish immigration policy. He breaks down the differences between economic migration and asylum, highlighting new cabinet memos that propose significant changes such as accommodation contributions for working asylum seekers. Defoe discusses stricter citizenship rules for welfare recipients and the financial thresholds for critical skills visas. The conversation reveals the challenges legal migrants face and the ongoing impact of UK policy on Ireland's immigration landscape.
Nov 24, 2025 • 11min
Outrage from Chapelizod locals over the new BusConnects routes
Jen Cummins, a Social Democrat TD for Dublin South-Central, spearheaded a public meeting to address community outrage over the new BusConnects routes. Sabrina Mendez, a local resident and regular bus user, shares alarming accounts of travel disruptions since the route changes. They discuss the longer, complex commutes, missed appointments, and accessibility issues, especially for parents and students. With the community feeling disconnected, Jen warns of a potential rise in car use as frustrations grow.
Nov 24, 2025 • 12min
How to protect yourself from new flu strain
Dr Éamonn O’Moore, Director of the National Health Protection Unit at the HSE, shares crucial insights on the new subclade K flu strain. He discusses the early surge in cases and the importance of vaccination, particularly for at-risk groups. Dr O’Moore emphasizes that younger individuals may drive the spread but usually recover. He also highlights the effectiveness of recent flu jabs and the need for continued infection control measures. With rising flu cases, his expert advice on prevention is timely and essential for public health.
Nov 24, 2025 • 8min
The US and Ukraine are to continue working on peace plan
In this engaging discussion, Paul Rogers, Emeritus Professor of Peace Studies at the University of Bradford, shares his insights on the evolving US–Ukraine peace plan. He outlines the challenges of negotiating with Trump's unpredictable diplomatic style and the current violent stalemate. Rogers suggests that Ukraine may have to cede some territory to achieve a settlement, while also weighing the potential for Western guarantees to secure a deal with Russia. Despite some progress, he reflects on whether the current moment is truly the closest to peace.
