The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Jamie Duffy, a talented composer and pianist, shares insights on his debut album that fuses folk, classical, and contemporary sounds. He reflects on his musical upbringing and the influence of artists like Lana Del Rey and Enya. Jamie discusses composing for films, including his work on the soundtrack for '500 Miles,' and the significance of blending classical music with modern genres to engage younger audiences. He also shares memorable moments, from a spontaneous Björk DJ set in Reykjavík to the impact of Irish folktales on his creative journey.

Heather Humphreys, a former Fine Gael politician and dedicated public servant, shares her vision for the presidency, emphasizing unity and Irish culture. She discusses her surprising return to politics, driven by a renewed passion for public service. Humphreys addresses criticisms of her opponent, Catherine Connolly, urging voters to assess capabilities. She also touches on the significance of rural pursuits and the importance of voter engagement, highlighting historical struggles for voting rights. It's a candid look at the challenges and motivations behind her campaign.

Conservative commentator Cal Thomas and political analyst Marion McKeone dive into the latest US foreign policy shifts. They discuss the White House's claim that there are 'no plans' for a Trump-Putin meeting, despite Trump's intentions. The duo explores Trump's complex ties with Putin, Ukraine's resilience, and how Republicans navigate Trump's foreign policy. Additionally, they tackle grassroots protests and the controversial White House ballroom renovation, questioning the motivations behind US aid allocations.

Professor Gary Murphy, a political expert from DCU, joins the discussion alongside political correspondent Louise Burne and editor Daniel McConnell. They analyze the surprising early stability of the presidential race and whether debate performances might sway undecided voters. The panel dives into Fine Gael's strategic missteps and media barriers impacting candidate visibility. They also address voter apathy, the presidency's relevance, and the implications for party leadership if Fine Gael falters. Insightful and timely analysis for any political enthusiast!

Catherine Connolly, an Independent politician and former TD with a rich background in law and public service, delves into her presidential campaign. She passionately discusses the importance of compassion and community spirit in Irish values. Connolly critiques Ireland's role in the Israel-Palestine conflict, asserting its position as a neutral peacekeeping voice. She highlights women's crucial contributions to the Good Friday Agreement and outlines her guiding principles for engaging with foreign leaders. Connolly emphasizes the symbolic leadership of the presidency and its potential impact on hope and policy.

Matt Cooper, a seasoned broadcaster, shares his insights on Mary McAleese, Ireland’s eighth president. He explores her Northern upbringing and the challenges of bridging divides in a turbulent political landscape. Topics include her role in the peace process and the significance of her outreach to the Orange bands. The podcast also covers her presidency during contrasting economic phases—from the Celtic Tiger to financial crisis—highlighting her unique relationship with Queen Elizabeth II and how it enhanced Ireland's global standing.

Discover the vital signs of brain tumours in children, as experts emphasize how symptoms can be misdiagnosed. Hear Cliona Leamy's emotional journey with her daughter Izzy, from early signs to the challenges of receiving a proper diagnosis. Dr. Sarah Curry sheds light on the difficulties of identifying pediatric brain tumours due to vague symptoms and their resemblance to common illnesses. The discussion also covers treatment approaches, survival rates, and the impact of genetics, making it a crucial listen for awareness.

Sarah Slattery, a travel specialist from thetravelexpert.ie, shares exciting winter getaway ideas across Ireland. She highlights the benefits of off-peak travel, with lower hotel prices and festive vibes. Families can enjoy the Santa Sleepover at Newtown Park, while couples can indulge in luxury deals at Mount Juliet and the G Hotel. Sarah also recommends Belfast's Christmas markets and various affordable hotel options, ensuring a magical winter break for everyone.

Ciarán Cunningham, Chief Sports Writer with the Irish Daily Star, dives into the controversial Enhanced Games where athletes can use performance-enhancing drugs. He discusses high-profile sign-ups like Irish swimmer Shane Ryan, motivated by lucrative fees. Ciarán reveals the involvement of Silicon Valley figures and the implications of a permissive drug policy, warning of emerging doping methods and their risks. He critiques how this initiative threatens the integrity of clean sport and reflects cultural tensions surrounding athletics.

Marion McKeone, a sharp journalist and political commentator, and Dave Hanratty, a music and current-affairs expert, dive into this week's hottest topics. They discuss Trump's shifting focus to Ukraine post-Gaza deal and the implications of a potential Trump-Putin meeting. The pair also tackle the lack of Irish acts winning the Mercury Prize, while examining rising pet care costs and the Met Éireann's project to digitize historical rainfall data. Join them for a lively exploration of politics and culture!