The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Craig Hughes, Political Editor at the Irish Daily Mail, dives into the complexities of tracking public spending under GDPR constraints. He highlights how the lack of a centralized database and historical cuts to procurement data are hindering transparency. Hughes discusses proposed legislation aimed at linking tender estimates to actual costs, which could help identify spending overruns earlier. He provides alarming examples of cost escalations in projects like the Merrion Square tearooms, revealing a pattern of financial mismanagement that raises urgent political concerns.

Join bestselling novelist and TV presenter Richard Osman as he delves into his new book, The Impossible Fortune, part of the Thursday Murder Club series. He shares the journey of embracing writing in his late 40s and how inspiration struck from his mother’s retirement village. Osman discusses the humor and real-life pain in his stories, while reflecting on aging and mortality. He also touches on his love for game shows and the future of shared viewing experiences, plus insights into his podcast, The Rest is Entertainment.

Cathal McSweeney, an advocate for transport in Cork, discusses the complexities of the new Duncettle interchange, questioning if it alleviates or complicates congestion. Seamus McGrath emphasizes the need for reliable bus services, lamenting cancellations that drive commuters away. Deirdre O’Shaughnessy highlights how limited parking at rail stations hampers commutes. Together, they champion integrated planning and active travel solutions to enhance Cork's transport landscape, aiming to transform daily commuting experiences.

Lara Marlowe, a veteran war correspondent and contributor to the Irish Times, dives deep into the complexities of the newly leaked US-backed peace plan regarding Ukraine. She calls the plan absurd, highlighting the territorial concessions that could give Russia control of Donetsk. Marlowe discusses the financial implications, suggesting that a US-led reconstruction could primarily benefit American interests. She also warns that the draft risks rewarding aggression and calls for Europe to stand firm against potential capitulation in the peace talks.

Lorcan Nyhan, Head of Training at the Communications Clinic, and Elaine Burke, host of For Tech’s Sake, share insights on political and social issues. They celebrate Troy Parrott's hattrick that sparked joy in Dublin, emphasizing the unifying power of football. Elaine discusses dynamic pricing for the Czechia playoff, while Lorcan advocates for reforms in event pricing. They also delve into the dangers politicians face, highlighting the need for protective measures, and critique the chaotic handling of the UK COVID inquiry, reflecting on leadership failures.

Conor Faughnan, a transport commentator, pushes for high-capacity public transport like metro and heavy rail to tackle Dublin's commuting woes. Janet Horner, a Green Party councillor, sheds light on local transport strategies including bus priority and cycling initiatives. Mary Rose Burke, CEO of the Dublin Chamber of Commerce, discusses the staggering economic costs of congestion and the urgent need for public transport investment, arguing for solutions like Metro and BusConnects to improve the daily commute.

Ray Silke, a former All-Ireland winning captain of Galway, shares his frustrating commuting experiences, highlighting how delays impact family life and quality of living. Karen Ronan, CEO of Galway Chamber, discusses the critical need for a Galway Ring Road to support business growth and alleviate traffic woes. They both advocate for a multimodal transport strategy to enhance accessibility. The conversation reveals how commuting struggles are driving young people away and stressing the importance of integrated infrastructure planning.

John Gibbons, an insightful environmental commentator, dives deep into the ecological impact of leaf blowers, spotlighting their noise and air pollution. He shares alarming comparisons of decibel levels and health risks associated with petrol-powered models. The conversation also touches on insightful alternatives like battery-powered blowers. Beyond leaf blowers, Gibbons critiques Galway's transport planning, advocating for public transit solutions over new road constructions, and raises awareness about sustainable practices like composting and the benefits of leaving leaves.

Charlie Weston, personal finance editor of the Irish Independent, and Dr. Laura Bambrick, head of social policy at the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, dive into the urgent need for regulations against companies dodging the new pension auto-enrolment system. They discuss the risks of inferior schemes being forced on employees and the push for minimum standards. The duo highlights the challenges small employers face and clarifies misconceptions about the administrative burden of auto-enrolment, stressing its long-term necessity for securing workers' futures.

Andy O'Donoghue, a seasoned technology journalist and gadget reviewer, dives into the world of GPS watches for kids. He shares insights on safe options like the Explorer XGoKid and X6 Play, highlighting features such as safe zones and SOS capabilities. Listeners learn about essential tips on SIM requirements, subscription plans, and water resistance for these gadgets. Andy also reveals his top pick, the Explorer X-Go 3, while comparing GPS trackers to more comprehensive watches.