The Hard Shoulder

The Government is aiming to introduce a digital wallet that would hold people’s life milestones for easy access. This could include documents such as a birth certificate or deeds to your home.Newstalk’s Henry McKean has been out asking the public for their thoughts…To chat a bit more about this plan, Ciara Doherty is joined by Eoin Keary, Founder of Edgescan, and Fine Gael MEP Regina Doherty.

A problem that many people face: how do you pick the right shoes for you? And what are the risks if you get the wrong pair?To discuss, Seán Defoe is joined by Footwear Expert, Liam Hughes.

Fionn Davenport, a seasoned travel writer and Lonely Planet author, delves into the World’s 50 Best Hotels list for 2025. He highlights the significance of the list, likening it to the Oscars for hotels. Asia's dominance is discussed, as Fionn breaks down top contenders like the historic Raffles Singapore and the luxurious Passa La Cua on Lake Como. He also examines the exquisite Capella Bangkok and the acclaimed Rosewood Hong Kong, which snagged the top spot. Fionn critiques the ranking process, sharing personal hotel experiences and notable omissions in the list.

Joining Seán Defoe is Psychotherapist, author, former professional footballer, pundit, and Movember ambassador Richie Sadlier to discuss the importance of creating the space for men to discuss their mental health…

Ten people were wounded in the mass stabbing on board a train between Doncaster and London's King's Cross Station on Saturday night.Seán Defoe is joined by Stephen Crean, an Irish citizen who was on board the train and interjected, blocking the attacker from injuring other passengers.

Independent Senator Tom Clonan joins Seán Defoe to place his favourite book on The Hard Shoulder Bookshelf!

Former Vice President to George W. Bush, Dick Cheney has died at the age of 84 today. He was widely viewed as one of the most polarizing, but also influential, Vice Presidents ever.Elsewhere, New Yorkers are taking the polls today to elect a new Mayor.Joining Seán Defoe to discuss all is White House Columnist for the Hill ,Niall Stanage.Image: Reuters

The Parents of 826,000 primary and pre-school children in the state will soon be asked to participate in a national survey.The survey, the largest and first ever held so far, will collect data on the kind of school structure parents want. Asking questions around the role of religion in schools, and whether single or mixed schools should be the future approach in education.The Minister for Education and Youth, and Fine Gael TD Helen McEntee, joins Seán Defoe to discuss.

AI chatbots are drawing in teenage boys, who use them for therapy, companionship and relationships, according to new research.Over a third of those surveyed said they were considering the idea of an AI friend, amid growing concern about the rise of AI therapists and girlfriends…Joining Seán Defoe to discuss is Psychologist Tara Logan Buckley.

The Irish Council for Civil Liberties is appearing before the Oireachtas Committee on Justice today, calling for the age of criminal responsibility to be raised to 14, but what is the appropriate age for people to have full responsibility for their actions?Joining Seán Defoe to discuss is Child Welfare Consultant, Kieran McGrath.