The Last Word with Matt Cooper
On Ireland's most cutting edge current affairs show, Matt and his guests provide a running stream of intelligent opinions and heated debates on the issues that matter most to Irish listeners. You might not always agree, but you'll never want to miss a Word.
Latest episodes
Jun 27, 2025 • 12min
Are Prize Bonds Still A Worthwhile Investment?
Sales of Prize Bonds topped €350 million in 2024 but this was a significant drop on previous years.Charlie Weston, personal finance editor with the Irish Independent, joins The Last Word to discuss whether Prize Bonds are still an attractive and worthwhile investment?Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Jun 27, 2025 • 17min
The Best Wines To Try This Summer
Wine expert Brigid O'Hora joins The Last Word to run through the best wines to enjoy this summer. She has picked a selection to suit all tastes including a crisp and refreshing vinho verde, a delicate rosé, and even a beautiful red for those die-hard red wine drinkers.Find a list of Brigid's choices below and catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!Aimery Cremant de Limoux RoseEscapada Vinho Verde, Minho Valley, Lisbon, Portugal Springfield Estate, Miss Lucy, Roberston, South AfricaAvanzi, Lugana Rose di Rosavero DOC, Lake Garda, ItalyMonte Santoccio Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, Italy
11 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 11min
Tech Thursday: The Best AI Assistants For Home, Office And Car
Andy O'Donoghue, a tech expert and contributor to Today FM, shares insightful tips on the best AI assistants for various environments. He discusses how tools like Amazon Alexa and Zapier enhance daily living and boost productivity. The conversation also explores LG's Think Hub for seamless smart home control and Netflix's innovative AI for personalized content. Additionally, O'Donoghue highlights AI's impact on fitness apps, showcasing how technology can personalize workout plans and improve user performance.
Jun 26, 2025 • 10min
EU Votes To Ban Airline Fees For Carry-On Bags And Family Seats
European politicians are seeking to ban airlines from charging passengers for small carry-on luggage or charging for families to sit together on a flight, in moves strongly opposed by the aviation sector.Eoghan Corry, travel and viation journalist, and Kevin Hiney, communications director with Airlines for Europe, join The Last Word to discuss these proposed measures. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Jun 26, 2025 • 8min
Penneys To Cut 100 Jobs At Dublin HQ
Primark, the parent company of Penneys, is planning to cut around 100 jobs at the its Dublin head office as the company moves to outsource some of its human resources, finance and procurement activities.Ian Guider, columnist with the Business Post, joins The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest business news. Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Jun 25, 2025 • 32min
The Culture Club: R B Egan
Author and former actor R B Egan was Matt's guest in the Culture Club, he spoke about the inspiration for his new crime novel, The Landlord.He also discussed his favourite music, film, TV, and books.
Jun 25, 2025 • 17min
'You're Left On The Sideline' - Natasha O'Brien Wants To Highlight Victims' Experiences Of The Justice System
Natasha O'Brien came to prominence after soldier Cathal Crotty, who viciously attacked her in Limerick in 2022, received a three-year suspended sentence for the assault, sparking outrage across Ireland.Natasha joins The Last Word to discuss the new RTÉ documentary 'Natasha', which explores what happens next for her and other survivors of violence.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Jun 25, 2025 • 16min
Irish Woman Lifts Lid On Life Inside Opus Dei
Anne Marie Allen, author of Serve: My Lost Years At The Heart Of Opus Dei, spoke to Matt about her life inside Opus Dei and how she left the organisation ato rebuild her life through education.To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Jun 25, 2025 • 24min
The Last Word On The US: 'Do Not Drop Those Bombs' Trump Tells Israel
US President Donald Trump has said he is "not happy" with Israel and Iran after claiming both countries violated a ceasefire.Marion McKeone and Cal Thomas join The Last Word to discuss Trump's involvement in the conflict and more of the latest news from the United States.But to start, Dr Edward Burke, lecturer in the history of war at UCD, joins to discuss how the escalating situation in the middle east could impact global defence and security as NATO leaders gather in The Hague for a crucial summit.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Jun 24, 2025 • 15min
Should Public Buildings Be Given Honorary Names?
The new €2.4bn pediatric hospital will officially be named the National Children's Hospital of Ireland according to a Government proposal, despite efforts to name it after doctor and political activist Dr Kathleen Lynn.Dr Mary McAuliffe, director of Gender Studies at UCD, and Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh join The Last Word to discuss whether public buildings should be named after historical figures or whether it is better to play it safe.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
