The Hard Shoulder

Newstalk
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Jan 5, 2026 • 15min

How Ireland could be a key go between the EU and the U.S as we prepare to host the the EU Presidency in 2026

From July, Ireland will host the EU Presidency. It’s reported that this will cost the state over 293 million euro. So, what exactly is the return on investment?  Joining Ciara to discuss the relevance of the EU presidency, the logistics of hosting it in Ireland and the massive security operation around was Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with Euronews and Conor Gallagher Crime and Security Correspondent with the Irish Times. …
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Jan 5, 2026 • 8min

Would you attend a dry wedding?

As sober socialising may be the goal for many in this month, as ‘Dry January’ takes hold, some couples are also opting for ‘Dry Weddings’. But what is the best way to cater for your guests at a dry wedding? Should you give them notice in advance?Joining Ciara Doherty with advice was Sarah Kenny, Wedding expert and owner of The Irish Wedding Blog
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Jan 5, 2026 • 10min

Kids Clinic: Night Terrors

This week on Kids Clinic, Ciara Doherty, psychotherapist and author Iseult White.   and going to be discussing night terrors and how to deal with them not only for your children but for yourself too.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 23min

"I am not guilty, I am a decent man" The captured former President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, appears in New York Court. What does the future look like for Venezuela ?

The Taoiseach Micheál Martin has said the Government's view was that it "never accepted the legitimacy of the Maduro regime", but has said he wants a peaceful transition to a democratic regime.  It’s as Nicolas Maduro appeared in court today after his weekend capture by US forces. He pleaded not guilty to charges. Joining Ciara Doherty with the latest and to discuss the implications of his ousting as president was Harriet Alexander  senior features reporter for The Times and The Sunday Times, based in New York, Dr Valesca Lima Assistant Professor of Politics at the School of Law and Government and researcher in Latin America  and Jerry McDermott is the owner of McDermott Realty Associates and former Sheriff of Norfolk County.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 8min

Taoiseach Micheál Martin meets Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing as part of State Visit.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin has started his 4 day official visit to China, his first since 2012 Earlier he met with the Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing and our reporter Emily Keegan is accompanying the Taoiseach on this visit she joined us from Beijing for the latest on the trip and what is on the agenda.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 7min

Ruben Amorim sacked as manager of Manchester United.

Ruben Amorim has been sacked after just 14 months in charge at Manchester United.  It follows Sunday’s draw at Leeds United, which leaves them 5th in the Premier League table. Why has he gone, and what now for the club? Sports journalist Daniel Hussey joined Ciara Doherty  to discuss
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Jan 5, 2026 • 13min

With schools closing due to the cold snap. Are we prepared enough for weather events?

Cold conditions are expected to continue overnight, with further weather warnings issued around the country. There were a large number of schools closed today across the North West region in particular, and there are some concerns that closures may continue.  Ciara Doherty was joined by a Meteorologist with Met Eireann, Liz Walsh, and Independent Councillor for Donegal County Council, Niamh Kennedy.
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Jan 5, 2026 • 12min

How can we reduce the amount of littered coffee cups?

According to business group IBAL, coffee cups are the most commonly found litter and questions whether reusable cup schemes are working. To discuss the issue Ciara Doherty was joined by Colin O’Byrne, of VOICE Ireland, and Will Monaghan, owner of One Society on Gardner St.
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Jan 2, 2026 • 37min

Winners and Sinners

This week Emmet Oliver was joined by Saoirse Hanley Irish Independent columnist and Niamh O’Reilly to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…
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Jan 2, 2026 • 9min

Can AI have a role in cancer screening ?

An Irish hospital has been trialling an AI tool that will allow cancer patients to report their symptoms via their phone.  The tool, developed by Irish company eAltra, gives medical teams the chance to assess the needs, concerns and health of patients in advance of their arrival at their appointment and also decide if they are suitable for treatment such as chemotherapy on the day or whether it is to be postponed.  Denis Roche founder of eAltra  joined Emmet Olilver to discuss

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