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 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.
Nov 12, 2025 • 11min
A Garden from Ireland for the White House
In this conversation with Jim McGovern, an award-winning garden designer and horticulturist, he shares his vision for an Irish walled garden at the White House. Inspired by Ireland's economic struggles, Jim proposes this garden as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Ireland and the US. He discusses its thoughtful design featuring a circular layout with a reflecting pond and pavilion. Jim also highlights the historical ties between the White House and Ireland's architectural heritage, making a compelling case for an iconic gift during the Biden administration.
Nov 12, 2025 • 12min
Professor Nick Maynard on 15 years engaging in surgical volunteering in Gaza
Professor Nick Maynard, a leading consultant upper GI surgeon and Associate Professor at Oxford, shares his remarkable 15-year journey of surgical volunteering in Gaza. He describes the intense security challenges and resource limitations faced by medical teams. Returning during the recent conflict, he witnessed mass casualties and the devastation of the healthcare system. Despite the bleak conditions, he highlights the resilience of Palestinian healthcare workers and the hopeful resolve of Gazans determined to rebuild their lives.
Nov 12, 2025 • 8min
Are we doing enough or too much to tackle vaping?
John Crown, a consultant medical oncologist and professor of translational cancer research, discusses the ongoing debate surrounding vaping regulations. He advocates for stricter controls, suggesting that vapes should mainly serve as cessation tools. While flavors can help adult smokers quit, they also pose a risk of attracting youth. Crown highlights the health risks associated with nicotine pouches and stresses the importance of prioritizing public health over the interests of the vaping industry.
Nov 12, 2025 • 23min
A new documentary 'First Conviction' a quest for justice
Pamela Fraher, a reporter with RTÉ Investigates, dives into the harrowing case of a couple wrongfully convicted of FGM. She reveals shocking details about the initial medical misdiagnosis and issues with courtroom interpretation that played a critical role in their conviction. Solicitor James McGuill discusses the challenges of their appeal and the importance of new medical evidence that eventually led to a quashed conviction. Together, they highlight systemic flaws in interpreter regulation and the quest for justice that continues as the couple seeks to clear their names.
Nov 12, 2025 • 8min
How lake temperatures surged past 40 °C in the Amazon Basin
Dr. Ruth Freeman, Director of Science for Society at Research Ireland, explores the alarming surge in lake temperatures exceeding 40 °C in the Amazon Basin and its devastating impact on wildlife. She reveals how rising temperatures deplete oxygen, stressing aquatic life. Additionally, Freeman discusses the legacy effect of microbes in soil, revealing how they help plants adapt to drought by 'remembering' past conditions. This fascinating interplay between climate extremes and microbial memory offers insights into both Amazonian and Irish ecosystems.
Nov 12, 2025 • 10min
Inside Hollywood: The remakes that didn't hit the mark
Lisa Cannon, Head of Studio at DMG Media and a sharp media commentator, delves into the world of Hollywood remakes that missed the mark. She critiques recent attempts like the lackluster magic of the Mary Poppins reimagining and the cluttered storytelling in Ghostbusters 2016. Discussing The Lion King, she notes its emotional hollowness despite technical brilliance. Cannon stresses the nostalgia trend in Hollywood, sacrificing originality for safe bets, and highlights how classic comedies like The Pink Panther can’t be replicated with today's standards.
Nov 12, 2025 • 12min
All the latest news in politics with Sean Defoe
Sean Defoe, a political correspondent and podcast host, dives into the recent inauguration of Catherine Connolly, emphasizing her vision as a voice for a new generation. The discussion takes a critical look at the government's ambitious housing plan to deliver 300,000 homes, with Defoe questioning its feasibility and likening it to previous failed strategies. He also explores the misallocation of party funds towards celebrity candidates, addressing why such risky investments fell flat. It's a lively analysis of politics, leadership, and housing challenges.
Nov 12, 2025 • 10min
Is it worth buying new car at all?
Conor Faughnan, a transport consultant and commentator, dives into the intricacies of buying new cars and the timing of registrations. He highlights why January is crucial for new car purchases and discusses how perceptions around car registration can influence resale values. Faughnan advises against buying new cars due to hefty depreciation, suggesting nearly-new alternatives instead. He also touches on non-financial factors driving new car purchases, like warranties and dealer relationships, while emphasizing the limits of public transport in replacing personal vehicles.
Nov 11, 2025 • 7min
A review of the new Google Pixel4 watch
Jess Kelly, a technology journalist and reviewer, explores the new Google Pixel Watch 4 in this insightful discussion. She highlights its sleek design and impressive 3000-nit display, emphasizing comfort and practicality for workouts. Jess dives into its durability, battery life, and the quirks of its proprietary charger. She also discusses Google Assistant's integration and fitness features from Fitbit, offering personalized sleep insights. Though she praises its quality, she questions the need for extra screens, wrapping up with tips on savvy laptop buying.
