The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Charlie Weston, personal finance editor at the Irish Independent, shares insights on the recent energy price hikes and cuts in Ireland. He explains the contrasting actions of Energia and Electric Ireland, prompting consumers to rethink their choices. Weston also offers practical advice on switching providers to save up to €800 annually, while discussing a proposal for a new savings scheme to encourage saving habits. His tips aim to empower listeners to navigate the complex energy market effectively.

The White House has denied that an alleged letter from Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein for Mr. Epstein’s birthday is authentic.The letter features a drawing of a woman’s body and appears to be signed by the US President.Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone spoke to Matt on Tuesday’s The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.

In the Last Word On Business, Ian Guider, Business Columnist with The Business Post, outlined the plans from Ryanair to seek a judicial review of the ruling capping night flights at Dublin airport.Ian also explained what is happening in terms of a planned overhaul of the judicial review process to end some challenges to developments. He looked ahead to the release of the iPhone 17.

Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan has said that the government expects a request for additional funding to address hospitality and infrastructure needs in Adare, Co. Limerick, ahead of the village hosting the Ryder Cup in 2027.The event is due to be held at Adare Manor, the luxury hotel owned by businessman JP McManus.Brian Carroll, author and Irish Times contributor, explained the story to Matt on Monday’s The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.

Dr. Suzanne Crowe, a consultant in pediatric intensive care and president of the Irish Medical Council, shares her moving journey in children's medicine as detailed in her memoir 'Intensive Care'. She discusses personal loss and how it deepened her empathy, significantly impacting her clinical work. Suzanne also delves into the emotional complexities faced by families and medical staff, the struggles of end-of-life acceptance, and the urgent need for improved funding and advocacy for children's healthcare services in Ireland.

Travel expert Sarah Slattery, from TheTravelExpert.ie, shares her top tips for winter trips that won't break the bank. She highlights off-season city breaks, revealing why November is the perfect time to visit popular destinations like Dubrovnik and Venice. Sarah dives into bucket-list adventures like seeing the Northern Lights in Tromsø and Lapland's magical igloos. She also provides practical tips on booking regional flights and skiing packages, ensuring you get the best deals for your winter getaway!

Former Met Éireann forecaster Joanna Donnelly rules herself out of running for President of Ireland while MMA fighter Conor McGregor formally seeks nomination; the cost of Dublin parking permits increases fourfold; & counterfeit Labubus are seized over safety concerns.Larry Donnelly and Emily Keegan join The Last Word to discuss the week's trending stories.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Minister for Arts, Culture and Sport Patrick O'Donovan has accused hoteliers of "robbing people up to their eyeballs" and has warned the industry that a promised cut in the hospitality VAT rate in October's Budget is not guaranteed.Paul Gallagher, chief executive of the Irish Hotels Federation, and Eoghan Corry, travel journalist with travelextra.ie, join The Last Word to discuss the Minister's claim that hotels are price gouging consumers.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Nick Ferrari, Presenter of Nick Ferrari At Breakfast on LBC, discussed the arrest of writer Graham Linehan on suspicion of inciting violence with X posts and his court appearance on separate harassment allegation. He also explained the impetus behind the Raise The Colours campaign in the UK that has seen the flying of Union Jacks and St George's Crosses around the country.To catch the full conversation press the play button on this page.

New research has found that dark coloured cars can make streets noticeably hotter and that the effect, when multiplied, can shift air temperatures in neighbourhoods and cities.John Gibbons joins The Last Word to discuss this and more climate news including podcaster Joe Rogan's claim that the earth is cooling.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!