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
Aug 18, 2025 • 5min
A look back on the weekend of sport
The weekend was packed full of action, with the round of 16 fixtures taking place in the FAI Cup. Scottie Scheffler claims his fifth win of the season at the BMW championship, and of course the opening round of Premier League fixtures. All to chat about with Colm Boohig, Broadcaster with Off the Ball.
Aug 18, 2025 • 7min
What are the biggest threats facing the State?
The dangers outlined in a Garda intelligence report reveal espionage and extremist ideologies threatening Ireland. Foreign spies, particularly from hostile states, are eyeing the nation’s high-tech and pharmaceutical sectors for intellectual property theft. Techniques range from physical infiltration to cyber hacking. Additionally, the podcast dives into the risks of election interference, mainly from Russia, and examines the growing concern of homegrown extremism fueled by social media. The discussion emphasizes the need for enhanced intelligence and resources to tackle these evolving threats.
Aug 18, 2025 • 11min
How ADHD symptoms vary from each individual
The past number of years has seen a surge in people getting diagnosed with ADHD. While doctors warn of overdiagnoses, there are a number of people living undiagnosed for years. One woman who waited until she was 26 to get diagnosed as she didn’t present with the stereotypical symptoms. So how do symptoms vary from each individual and how can it impact day to day life? All to discuss with Molly Roberts a Content Creator.
Aug 18, 2025 • 8min
One-third of insects are under threat of extinction
David Attenborough once said the world’s ecosystem would collapse if all the bees, wasps, ants and flies were to disappear. So why are we allowing one third of them to be under threat of extinction? Without insects, we wouldn’t have decomposition, nutrient recycling, seed spreading or pollination. But pollution, intensive farming and habitat loss are causing that to suffer. All to discuss with Collie Ennis, Biodiversity Officer at Trinity College Dublin.
Aug 18, 2025 • 15min
More than 600 vacant teaching posts are still vacant!
According to a survey released this week, almost 70% of school leaders reported that they had unfilled vacancies due to difficulties recruiting staff. More than 600 vacant teaching posts are still vacant. Pat discusses this issue with Teachers Union of Ireland President Anthony Quinn and also Principal of Coláiste Éamann Rís Aaron Wolfe.
Aug 18, 2025 • 16min
The latest on the race to the Áras
A presidential race that was shaping up to be relatively uneventful has been shaken up by the surprise withdrawal of Mairead McGuinness due to health issues. Heather Humphries and Sean Kelly are potential nominees from Fine Gael. While pharma tycoon Gareth Sheridan attempts to secure a spot on the ticket, Independent TD Catherine Connolly is the only official candidate at this stage. All to discuss with Fionnán Sheahan, Ireland Editor of the Irish Independent.
Aug 15, 2025 • 22min
The Friday Forum look back on the news stories of the week
We take a look back on the main news stories on the week with our Friday Forum. Joining Pat today was Christina Finn, Political Editor, The Journal, Darren O’Rourke TD, Spokesperson on Education and Youth, Meath East, Sinn Féin and Aisling Dempsey TD, Spokesperson on Children, Meath West, Fianna Fáil.
Aug 15, 2025 • 6min
Friday Food with Gareth Mullins
Gareth Mullins talks through an Irish Lamb, grilled on the barbeque served with this flavor packed green sauce, beef nachos and a panzaella salad for entertaining this summer
Aug 15, 2025 • 15min
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold talks in Alaska
Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will hold talks in Alaska later today, with the US President's hopes of sealing a ceasefire agreement on Ukraine uncertain. We discuss this further with Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent for Euronews.
Aug 15, 2025 • 8min
Why don’t we swim in the Liffey?
The river seine, which carves its way through the heart of Paris has lifted a ban on bathing, which was in effect since 1923. This has been motivated of course by the sweltering heatwave which is eclipsing Europe at the moment. Aside from Paris, many other major cities such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam actually encourage their locals to swim in their rivers. But not in Dublin, as many know the River Liffey is not exactly a hotspot for local swimming enthusiasts, but why is that?
