Newstalk Breakfast

All this week on Newstalk Breakfast we are exploring the Irish language and its place in Irish society.   Today, we are diving into the topic of education.   We ask is the model for Gaeilge in schools fit for purpose?   All to discuss with Shane O’Quinn, Chairman of Gréasán do Mhúinteoirí Gaeilge.

A new threat of higher electricity bills has emerged after the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities approved a rise in network charges.  We get the latest on this with Daragh Cassidy, Head of Communications at Bonkers.ie.

US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose new tariffs and curb exports to countries with digital taxes or regulations that affect American tech companies. With the EU Digital Services Act in affect, this puts Ireland and its tech companies firmly in the firing line, but how can we react? For more on this we heard from Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist at the Institute of International and European Affairs and Columnist with The Currency.

Sport Ireland is set to develop a new “respect the ref” campaign in response to what it has identified as a rising incidence of abuse and disrespect towards officials. All to discuss with Rory Hickey Former Intercounty GAA Referee and GAA referees Administrator for Clare.

Have you ever seen a whale off the Irish coast? Sadly, your chance of spotting one is perhaps the lowest it’s ever been. Our reporter James Wilson went to learn why whales have deserted Ireland’s seas in their droves. 

A number of patients at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda are being informed that tests regarding pre-cancerous cells have been incorrectly graded. Martin Wall of The Irish Times joined Ciara with the story.

CAO round 1 offers are out today at 2pm, and thousands of students will know their next steps into the future.  Speaking to Shane this morning was Aisling Murray Fleming, DCU Guidance Course Director. 

All this week, Newstalk Breakfast is celebrating all things Gaeilge. Ciara and Shane were joined by Hector Ó hEochagáin, Podcaster, TV Presenter and Anchor.

There has been an increase in the number of International Protection applicants entering the work force, according to a new study from the Central Statistics Office.  The report also noted that non-Irish nationals, which include a number of International Protection applicants, accounted for 21 per cent of all employment in Ireland in the second quarter of this year .We discuss further with Cathal Malone, Immigration lawyer and Head of Legal Research at Thomas Coughlan and Co Solicitors.

Minister for Tourism Peter Burke has criticised hotels in Dublin for inflating their prices when there are large events on in the capital and said it is something he will be addressing in October’s Budget.     We get reaction from Michael Magner National President of the Irish Hotels Federation.