Dr Javid Abdelmoneim, who is in Ireland to accept the award, joins the programme to tell Cormac about his two months spent working with MSF in Gaza.

The Garda Commissioner has said that the decision to stand down the Garda National Public Order Unit before disturbances last July was not the right decision in hindsight. President of the Garda Representative Association, Mark O'Meara joins the programme.

Drivetime's John Cooke has been following this tragic story for some time now and has the latest. We also get reaction from Melanie Cleary, mother of Eve Cleary, and Sinn Fein's Health spokesperson David Cullinane.

Concerns for the future of the Ocean View home in Camp come with new figures showing how almost 80 nursing homes have closed since 2018. Drivetime Reporter Barry Lenihan has the latest.

Hassan Nasrallah has given his first public address after pager and walkie-talkie blasts killed at least 37 people and wounded around 3,000 more across Lebanon. To discuss the attacks former Prime Minister of Israel Ehud Olmert.

There has been a huge rise in teens addicted to the semi-synthetic cannabinoid HHC. To discuss this Dr. Bernard Kenny, Director of Addiction Management at the Irish College of GPs and Minister of State at the Department of Health with responsibility for drugs.

A report from the Immigrant Council of Ireland launched today shows anti-immigrant violence stood in the way of electoral success for many migrant candidates in June's local elections.To discuss this ICI's Political Participation Coordinator Teresa Buczkowska and City Dublin Councillor with the Green Party Feljin Jose.

With Garda recruitment numbers falling short of government targets, age restrictions have gone from 35 to 50 - and training allowances are increasing for a second time this year - from 305 euro to 354 per week from next month. Drivetime's John Cooke has been meeting some of them - to ask about the appeal nowadays of joining the Gardai.

A letter writer to the Irish Times today described how a train journey from Dublin to Mayo left her irritated. She describes hearing younger people, speaking in accents that were "low and creaky with a tendency towards a rising intonation, making sentences sound like questions" To discuss this Feargal Murphy, Lecturer in Linguistics in UCD.

Now further detail emerged today in relation to the bike shelter at Leinster House. Internal records from the Oireachtas reveal how concerns over dust and parking spaces delayed the bike shelter for many months. To tell us more the Irish Times' political correspondent Cormac McQuinn.

A leading organisation that works with rough sleepers and those overcoming addition fears a new state-of-the art treatment facility may not be able to open fully due to a lack of funds. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

A total of 52,000 homes will need to be built per year over 25 years according to the Central Bank. It said that if the Government wanted to reduce the homes deficit over a shorter, 10 year period, then nearly 70,000 homes would need to be built every year. Conor O'Connell, director of housing and planning at the Construction Industry Federation.

Exploding walkie-talkies have killed nine people and injured at least 300 people across Lebanon, the country's health ministry said this afternoon. This follows yesterday's deadly pager explosions, which killed 12 people and injured over 2,500. We hear from Fawaz Gerges, Professor of International Relations.

Italian football icon Salvatore 'Toto' Schillaci has died aged 59. "Schillaci, six foot two, eyes of blue, Mick McCarthy's after you", was the chant from Irish fans, but it was his goal in the quarterfinals of Italia '90 that broke our hearts. We hear from Ireland's keeper on the day Packie Bonner

Gardaí say they have seized 42 Ghost encrypted devices as part of the international investigation, which infiltrated an encrypted messaging platform for criminals. Assistant Commissioner for Organised & Serious Crime with An Garda Síochana Justin Kelly & investigations Editor with the Sunday World & Presenter of Crime-World podcast, Nicola Tallant

Fady Abed, 23-year old displaced Palestinian in Gaza, a communications officer with MedGlobal, an international medical aid organization operating in Gaza. With his dentistry training interrupted by the war, Dr. Abed uses his skills in photography & videography to document and support humanitarian efforts and the ongoing polio vaccination campaign.

Instagram has announced the roll out of new teen accounts which the platform said will include built-in protections for younger users. Users under 16 will need a parent’s permission to change any of the built-in protections. Professor of Cyberpsychology Mary Aiken

Meta today announced that Instagram is to put users under the age of 18 into teen accounts which will allow parents more control over their activities. Users under the age of 16 will also need a parent’s permission to change the new restrictions. Cormac speaks to Tara Hopkins who is Global Director, Public Policy at Instagram.

New research shows touching wood is not just for good luck, it can also have a calming effect. Wood beats stroking marble or steel and is akin to petting a cat or dog. Professor Kathy Willis from the Department of Biology at the University of Oxford - and author of 'Good Nature - The new science of how nature improves our health'.

The family of four year old girl with epilepsy is appealing for help as they struggle to pay €1,000 a week for medicine that’s stopped her life threatening seizures. Clodagh Walsh’s parents say they’re emotionally and financially drained as they await news on whether a potentially life-saving drug can be publicly funded here. Reporter John Cooke.

The joint collaboration, between several organisations, want to ensure a safer online experience for children and young people. Teacher and assistant principal at Temple Carrig Secondary School in Greystones, Eoghan Cleary discusses the issue.

Minister Stephen Donnelly on the inquiry into the death of Aoife Johnston; GP shortages; scoliosis; and online safety. Also reaction by Social Democrat TD & Spokesperson for Health, Róisín Shortall.

The 63-year-old broadcaster previously admitted three charges of "making" indecent photographs after he was sent 41 illegal images by convicted paedophile Alex Williams. Cormac and Sarah are joined by Channel 5 News Correspondent Julian Druker with the latest.

The Georgina Downey, daughter of a late-stage Dementia patient, George Downey, is urgently appealing for help to move her father to a more appropriate place. RTÉ's Barry Lenihan reports.

This afternoon the family of murdered County Derry GAA official Sean Brown has been told that the British government will not establish a public inquiry into the killing. Cormac speaks to Sean's Grandson- Daman Browne about the news.

The Minister of state for Disability Anne Rabbitte has told a court how she “feared for her safety” and felt “under attack” when a bag of cow dung was flung at her at a public meeting in Gort, Co Galway, in January of last year. RTÉ Reporter John Cooke joins Cormac with the latest.

Cormac speaks to Sinn Fein TD for Laois Offaly and Chair of the Public Accounts Committee-Brian Stanley and to Fianna Fail TD for Limerick City- Willie O'Dea about the critical findings from The Comptroller and Auditor General on University of Limerick's purchase.

The world's longest running live TV chat show returns to our screens tonight, Cormac is joined by RTÉ reporter Barry Lenihan who's down at the Late Late Show studio.

This afternoon Sinn Féin launched their childcare plan which they say would cap the cost of childcare at €10 per day for parents.

The International Committee of the Red Cross has confirmed that three of its staff were killed today in the Donetsk region. In Gaza UNRWA said six of its staff were killed in an Israeli air strike overnight. For reaction to these attacks on humanitarian relief groups UNRWA spokesman in Gaza, Sam Rose and Head of the Irish red cross, Deirdre Garvey.

The family of Aoife Johnston demands immediate publication of a major report into her death at University Hospital Limerick . Drivetime’s John Cooke has been following this tragic story for some time and he joined Cormac.

Research from Queens University Belfast shows laughter therapy may be just as good as drops for treating dry eyes. Professor Nathan Congdon, Chair of Global Eye Health at Queen's University Belfast is co-investigator and co-author of the study and he tells us more.

Fears are growing over the future of a Kerry nursing home after the HSE was forced to take control of the facility amid concerns about the governance and finances of the centre. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

The legendary sports commentator George Hamilton has announced that he has left RTÉ Sport after 40 years of voicing some of the most iconic moments in Irish sport. He joined Sarah and Cormac to talk to us about his big decision and the next chapter.

Major social media and online platforms are being asked to make a stand and join the fight against academic dishonesty. Gráinne Mooney - Senior Communications Manager at Quality and Qualifications Ireland.

Ryanair's CEO Michael O'Leary met today with Junior Transport Minister James Lawless when the two discussed the ongoing saga of the passenger cap at Dublin Airport. Afterward the Ryanair boss branded the meeting “unproductive” and again criticised the government for its handling of the issue. Junior Transport Minister James Lawless speaks to Cormac

The British government is to establish a full statutory public inquiry into the 1989 murder of Belfast solicitor Pat Finucane. His family have campaigned for decades for an inquiry into suspected state collusion in his killing. Michael Finucane, son of Pat Finucane speaks to Sarah.

The Government has said that it will accept the European Court of Justice’s decision to uphold its 2016 finding that Apple underpaid taxes to the tune of 13 billion euro. Niall Collins-Minister of State Department of Further and Higher Education and TD for Limerick County and Richard Boyd-Barrett-PBP/Solidarity TD for Dun Laoghaire

Thousands of additional homes could be made available if the government changed the planning laws to allow people build small homes in their gardens. To discuss this Conor O'Connell, Director of Housing and Planning with Construction Industry Federation and Sean O'Neill McPartlin, director of housing policy, Progress Ireland.

The Taoiseach has been asked to intervene to keep much needed student accommodation available for those attending the Atlantic Technological University in Sligo amid fears that almost 500 bed spaces will now house International Protection Applicants instead. Reporter John Cooke tells us more.

Tomorrow marks the 23rd anniversary of the attack and this year's Law Society human rights lecture will focus on the legacy of September 11th. Giving the lecture is Fionnula Ní Aoláin, Professor of Law, Public Policy and Society at the University of Minnesota Law School and Professor of Law at the Queens University, Belfast.

Today, across a wide range of industries, a growing number of workers are discovering that their productivity is being monitored more and more by their bosses.

Israeli airstrikes on al-Mawasi “humanitarian zone” in the Gaza Strip early today have killed at least 19 people and injured a further 60, according to witnesses and medical officials. The death toll may rise as more bodies are recovered, UNRWA spokesperson in Gaza Sam Rose joined Cormac.

Kenny Cunningham tells RTÉ's Drivetime programme that Heimir Hallgrimsson got it wrong this week in allowing John O'Shea and Paddy McCarthy to take leading roles with the preparation of the Ireland team.

Economist Jim Power outlines the increasing financial challenges facing those working in the restaurant and hospitality sector.

Could a lack of funding at third level be putting the very concept of universities at risk? Fianna Fail Senator Malcolm Byrne and Sinn Féin's Mairéad Farrell debate

GAA coach Chris Joyce outlines his personal story of dealing with gambling and drink addiction and how he managed to overcome them.

Kenny Cunningham tells RTÉ's Drivetime programme that Heimir Hallgrimsson got it wrong this week in allowing John O'Shea and Paddy McCarthy to take leading roles with the preparation of the Ireland team.

Gaza polio vaccination update and the lingering impact of that disease on Irish people from previous outbreaks. We hear from Adele Khodr, UNICEF'S Regional Director for the Middle East & North Africa and Fran Brennan CEO of Polio Survivors Ireland talks about the impact of this disease.

We hear from Jim O'Callaghan of Fianna Fáil and Róisín Shortall of the Social Democrats on the redress scheme for school abuse survivors and getting religious orders to contribute.

Calls for greater understanding and specialists to help people who have uncontrollable urges to pull, pick or scratch their hair and skin, due to stress. The condition is known as Body Focused Repetitive Behaviour. Caroline Harbison, Treasurer of BFRB UK & Ireland tells us more. For more information you can visit bfrbukireland.com

The Home Care Coalition which is made up of twenty-five leading charities, not-for-profits and campaigners, launched its pre budget submission this morning. One member of the coalition is older people charity ALONE CEO, Sean Moynihan joined Cormac.

Ireland host England in an international soccer match in Dublin for just the second time since a friendly game between the countries had to be abandoned in 1995 following violence from English supporters. Gardai are to shortly intensify special security arrangements for the fixture. Barry Lenihan gives us a sense of what to expect .

You may be suffering from "Dead Butt Syndrome" or "Gluteal Amnesia", if your lower back is very stiff and sore after a long day in an office chair or car or van seat. Dr Kenneth Monaghan is a Clinical Musculosletal Specialist Physiotherapist, and Lecturer in Health Science and Physiology at the Atlantic Technological University

A Commissioner for Future Generations has been in place in Wales since 2016 and has been widely accepted as being a success. The Welsh Commissioner Derek Walker is in Dublin today meeting Irish politicians to discuss how our government are preparing for the next generation, and how a similar role would work here. He joins Sarah to tell us more.

Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalgoue is on an agri-food trade mission to China and South Korea. This is the Minister's second visit to each country within 18 months and follows the reopening of both markets to Irish beef. Sarah speaks to the minister from Seoul in South Korea.

You, Me and Palliative Care’, That's the theme for this year's Palliative Care Week taking place from September 8th to 14th to raise awareness of the benefits of hospice and palliative care. Drivetime's John Cooke spent the afternoon in the company of a very talented gentleman called Brendan O'Byrne to find out more

Material deprivation is a direct measure of poverty derived from the lack of items and activities deemed to be necessary for an acceptable standard of living. To discuss this Tanya Ward, Chief Executive of the Children's Rights Alliance and Sinn Féin TD and spokesperson on Social Protection, Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire.

The mother of a man with an intellectual disability who was a resident in the Brothers of Charity Lota facility has expressed her fear - that if abuse in these institutions is going to be investigated- the voice of children with disabilities must also be heard. Margaret Best 77 year-old mother of Kenneth Best 55, who has an intellectual disability

An Irish survivor of the Grenfell Fire says there'll be no justice for the 72 people who lost their lives until criminal charges are brought against those responsible. Willie Thompson was speaking after a major inquiry found how all of the deaths in London in 2017. Reporter Barry Lenihan from London.

A Protest is taking place in County Tipperary this evening as locals fight to keep almost one hundred asylum seekers in their community 5 years after they moved in. They're facing eviction and relocation to Co. Offaly - as soon as tomorrow, John Cooke reports from Barrisokane.

Business group IBEC has called for the passenger cap at Dublin Airport to be lifted to reflect our continued population growth and demands for international connectivity. Ryanair CEO To discuss this Fianna Fail's Minister of State in the Department of Transport James Lawless, but first Danny McCoy, chief executive of IBEC.

Today the charity Extern Problem Gambling launched the EmpowerHER project - the first of its kind- which aims to provide a free and confidential environment where women can seek support for harmful gambling. To tell us more about the issue of female gambling addiction and the new initiative Project Lead of the new programme, Claire Donegan.

Bus Eireann says almost 700 children are without access to a school bus nationwide - despite paying for tickets earlier this year. Protests are taking place in some parts of the country - with one community claiming the lack of suitable school transport represents an attack on rural Ireland. Our reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

The use of drug seizures as a means towards curbing drug supply may not be an effective way to reduce harm or protect society according to Dr Ian Marder, assistant professor in criminology, Maynooth University School of Law & Criminology we also hear from Tony Gallagher, former Garda Inspector & risk security & event manager at Ashtree Risk Group.

As we heard earlier on in the programme the sales for Electric Vehicles are in a slump with sales so far this year down a quarter on last year. So why the sluggish sales when EVs are supposed to be the future of car travel? We hear from the head of the Zero Emissions Vehicles office in the Department of Transport, Aoife O'Grady.

Tens of thousands of people continue to rally across Israel today following the recovery of the bodies of six hostages from Gaza. Alon-Lee Green from Standing Together a grassroots movement of Jews and Arabs in Israel, working for Peace and Equality, joined Cormac from Tel Aviv.

The campaign to inoculate children in Gaza against polio is now underway... Children in the territory began receiving vaccines on Saturday, and the large-scale rollout and planned pause in fighting agreed to by Israel and the WHO began yesterday. For the latest I'm joined by UNICEF's spokesperson in the region Jonathan Crickx.

Sinn Féin today published their housing plan should they be elected to run the country for the next five years. To disucss this with Sarah Sinn Féin Finance Spokesperson & TD for Donegal Pearse Doherty and Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery, and Reform and TD for Dublin Central-Paschal Donohue.

Workers in the UK could soon have the right to request a four day working week. So could it work here? And would it benefit businesses as well as workers? Leisha Redmond McGrath is a Chartered Work and Coaching Psychologist who has been looking at this for Drivetime

The World Health Organization said today it has delivered 1.2m doses of the polio vaccine to Gaza. The initiative follows the reporting of the first case of the childhood disease in the territory in a quarter of a century. Sam Rose is UNRWA spokesperson.

The Taoiseach has written to the Attorney General to seek clarity on whether Ireland can review current and future trade agreements between this country and Israel. . Fianna Fail MEP Billy Kelleher & People Before Profit TD Richard Boyd Barrett discuss.

A new report shows that there were 2,107 fish kills in Irish rivers and lakes from 1969-2022, and that agriculture was responsible for almost a quarter of those incidents. Dr Ronan Matson is the lead author on the report and the Director of the Eastern River Basin District .

Yesterday on the programme, we spoke about issues around hill walking and the increase in walking festivals but just what are the rules when it comes to walking across public and private lands. Helen Lawless is the Access & Conservation Officer with Mountaineering Ireland

Yehuda Shaul the co-founder of Ofek: The Israeli Center for Public Affairs and also one of the co-founders of 'Breaking the Silence', a group made up of former Israeli soldiers dedicated to exposing what they see as the realities of Israeli treatment of Palestinians in the occupied territories.

A life changing car accident put a University of Limerick student on the path to a future career that is now helping to change lives. Kirsty O'Connor from County Tipperary graduated from UL’s Faculty of Education and Health Sciences she joined Cormac.

When it comes to dining out we all know how expensive it can be. But when it comes to a traditional three course meal, have our eating habits of late changed? TV chef and culinary lecturer at South East Technological University, Edward Hayden.

Sinn Féin today published plans to give 100,000 more students a school bus place. To discuss this, Sinn Féin TD and Spokesperson on Education Sorcha Clarke and also Fergal Barton, Chair of the school transport committee for Coach Tourism and Transport Council of Ireland (CTTC),

Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary has called for alcohol limits in airports to tackle a rise in disorderly behaviour on flights. Travel journalist Simon Calder tells us more.

The Irish Second-Level Students’ Union says it cannot support the proposed plans of a blanket-approach phone ban across second-level schools in Ireland announced by Minister for Education, Norma Foley. Jack McGinn is Uachtarán of the ISSU and he joined Cormac.

International visitors to Dublin should have to pay a tourist tax on their hotel stays. The revenue generated by this tax could be used to re-invest in the city, according to Darragh Moriarty, Labour Councillor on Dublin City Council. We also hear from Michael Magner, president of the Irish Hotels Federation.

Parents of children with additional needs say they're becoming increasingly worried on the eve of the new school year due to a lack of post-primary school places. It comes with teachers and principals also anxious due to a shortage in therapeutic and clinical supports in schools for young people with complex needs. Barry Lenihan reports.

At least nine Palestinians have been killed in the occupied West Bank, in what Israel says is a "counter-terrorism operation". Since the October 7th Hamas Attacks The West bank has seen a surge in violence with more than 600 Palestinians have been killed, largely in Israeli Military Raids. Peter Power, Ireland Executive director with UNICEF.

Goverments across the globe are are grappling with how to deal with online misinformation and misoygnistic, violent and racist content on social media sites. Cormac speaks with Australia's e safety commissioner Julie Inman Grant.

It's lunchbox season again, a task dreaded by many parents and a meal left uneaten by many children. Registered dietician Isabelle Fagan says we don't need to stress about the lunchbox.

Parents of students at St Killian's Special School in Cork say their children with intellectual disabilities are regressing as therapeutic interventions were withdrawn from the school four years ago. To tell us more reporter Barry Lenihan.

There has has been a powerful reaction to the documentary "Stolen" broadcast on RTE 1 last night. The programme focused on the six decade period when many mothers were incarcerated in mother and baby institutions. We hear from one of the participants in the show, Noelle Brown.

Russia has targeted Ukraine with another wave of deadly strikes, a day after one of its biggest air attacks of the war. At least seven people were killed and dozens wounded as missiles and drones were fired into more than half of Ukraine's regions. For the latest on these strikes, Kira Rudik who is a Member of the Ukrainian Parliament.

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald has called on Taoiseach Simon Harris to provide full answers to reports that aircraft carrying weaponry from the United States to Israel has flown through Irish airspace. Jennifer Carroll McNeill is the Minister for Europe and she joined Cormac to tell us more.

MedGlobal's co-founder Dr. John Kahler is a pediatrician who visited Gaza multiple times this year, and is overseeing MedGlobals efforts to participate in the WHO/UNICEF-led Polio vaccination campaign in Gaza.

Another Fine Gael departure today. Another well-known media personality selected to run for Fianna Fail. It all means an early general election is ever more likely this evening - with intense speculation surrounding a November 15th polling date. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

Rents rose by more than 7% in the second quarter this year compared with last year. Availability on the rental market remains tight and with a new college year set to begin what will the outlook be like for students. To discuss this USI Vice President for Campaigns, Nathan Murphy and owner of Liberty Blue estate agents in Waterford, Regina Mangan.

There have been another 24 hours of relentless military operations from air, sea and land on the Gaza strip, with new evacuation orders issued yesterday to people in Deir Al Balah, middle Gaza. For the latest nuseirat in the Middle Gaza area now by UNRWA spokesperson Louise Wateridge.

The first day of search concluding in Co Louth for body of murdered British intelligence officer Robert Niarac, kidnapped and shot by the IRA almost 50 years ago. It's the first search for Captain Niarac since his abduction and murder while working undercover in 1977. Conor McAuley, RTE's Northern Correspondent.

This afternoon the government announced the publication of the Autism Innovation Strategy which they say responds to a clear commitment in the Programme for Government to action on autism. To discuss the strategy, Minister of State for Disability Anne Rabbitte.

Cormac is joined by Ibrahim Nash’at Filmmaker and director of "Hollywoodgate , a new documentary looking at life in Afghanistan under the Taliban since the US withdrawal.

New research from the UK shows more than half of Britons - around 54% - would like to meet new people, but a third of them admit they have no idea how to strike up a conversation with a stranger. Behavioural Psychologist at Change ABLE.ie - Padraig Walsh has some tips

New stats from the Irish College of GPs shows the country's population has risen by over three percent from 2022 to 2023, the number of GPs nationally only went up by 0.6%. Steve McMahon from the Irish Patients Association, Dr Gary Stack, Medical Director of South Doc & Malcolm Byrne, Fianna Fail senator discuss.

As leaving cert students throughout the country get their results Gemma Lawlor, a Guidance Counsellor at Tyndall College in Carlow reflects on what the results tell us.

Underinvestment in the building industry could cost jobs according to the CIF (Construction Industry Federation). Connor O Connell & Connect trade Union Brian Nolan of of the CFI outline their concerns

Irish Times journalist Kitty Holland and Evelyn Conlon, writer and campaigner, remember their late friend Nell McCafferty.

VHI is the latest health insurer to announce price hikes. Dermot Goode, Head of Healthcare Division at Lockton Insurance Brokers has the latest.

Fianna Fáil's plan to defer the residential zoned land tax for a year has caused a rift with government partners the Green Party. Michael O'Flynn, property developer and Chairman and CEO of the O’Flynn Group, speaks to Drivetime.

The United Nations Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA) has confirmed the bombing of one of its school in Gaza just hours ago - the school was also used as a primary health care centre and pharmacy. Juliette Touma, UNRWA Director of Communications, joins the programme.

A new event to highlight the importance of women's role in agriculture is taking place this week .Cormac speaks to two women working in agriculture Aileen Collery & Joanne Devaney

Cormac is joined by Donal O’Keefe of the LVA and Greg Caffrey of the Mandate Trade Union to debate the issue of increasing the minimum wage.

The government negotiator has failed to reach an agreement with holy orders in relation to The mother and Baby redress scheme in the given timeline allotted by government . Patsy McGarry of the Irish Times & Maeve O'Rourke, Lecturer in Human Rights at the Irish Centre for Human Rights at NUI Galway discuss.

Cormac is joined by US based journalist and broadcaster Niall Stanage & Patti Shields , chair of Democrats abroad for the latest from the convention floor in Chicago.

Larry Torris, abuse survivor & Diarmuid Brecknell of Phoenix Law discuss calls for a public inquiry into alleged abuse by former consultant Michael Shine.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer was in Belfast today elsewhere Doug Beattie has stood down as leader of the UUP. Belfast based journalist Amanda Ferguson.

According to a new report new trends have emerged in alcohol consumption in Ireland. Tony Foley, Senior Lecturer at the School of Business in DCU and the reports author & Dr Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland discuss.

We've been hearing for some weeks now about a shortage of teachers across the country as schools prepare to re-open after the summer break. Now one Dublin principal says they've been forced to drop a subject in their school - our reporter Una Kelly has been looking at this.

Gardai are investigating whether there was a link to terrorism in the attack on an army chaplain outside Renmore barracks in County Galway last night. Robin Schiller, journalist with The Irish Independent has more.

Connor King, General Secretary of RACO (The Representative Association of Commissioned Officers) responds to the attack on Fr Paul Murphy, army chaplain for the Irish Defence Forces' base in Galway

New research has revealed an "unprecedented" mental health crisis among young people globally. The new study has been published in The Lancet Psychiatry Journal. One of the studies authors Professor Barbara Dooley, Dean of Graduate Studies & Deputy Registrar in UCD outlines some of the findings.

The English Premier League kicks off tonight. There will be plenty of Irish players in action throughout the season - one football writer says this is promising to be "the most controversial and consequential campaign in the English game’s history" . Miguel Delaney - Chief Football Writer with the UK Independent previews the 24/25 season.

Barry Lenihan reports on the growing issue of a lack of swimming pools and swimming facilities across the country.

New research from Stanford University identifies aging burst in our 40's and 50's and that aging is not a linear process. Professor of Medical Gerontology at Trinity College Dublin and President of the Irish Gerontological Society Rose Ann Kenny discusses.

Residential property prices rose by 8.6% nationally in the year to the end of June, new data from the Central Statistics Office shows. To discuss this Owner of Liberty Blue estate agents in Waterford Regina Mangan, owner, of Brock Delappe Estate agents in Dublin, David Brock & owner of Colleran Auctioneers based in Galway, Don Colleran.

Families affected by the closure of the country's only boarding school for boys looking to learn through the medium of Irish are calling for an immediate intervention from the Education Minister Norma Foley. It comes after controversy around the sudden closure of the Gaelachas Teo second level facility in Cork. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

War has raged since April 2023 between the Sudanese army under the country's de facto ruler Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. MedGlobal’s Country Director in Sudan, Adil Almahi

Five prisoners are continuing to receive treatment - while six have been discharged from hospital - following a drug poisoning in Portlaoise Prison yesterday. To tell us more Nicola Tallant, investigations editor with the Sunday World.

The stress and anxiety induced by a crying toddler or newborn. What if you had access to a Crying Baby Ambulance for some help? A service currently available to parents of young children living in Germany, Austria, Switzerland and Luxembourg. To tell us more, Dr Mary O’Kane, Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Education

Mark Rozell is dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University and author of a number of books on the US presidency and American government and he's in Dublin today as a guest of the US Embassy. He joined Cormac in studio to give us his take on the Presidential campaign.

Ukraine continued its cross-border assault into the western Russian region of Kursk. A Government spokesperson also said today that Ukraine has no interest in occupying the Kursk region long term. To discuss what is going on Ukrainian MP Andrii Osadchuk.

Retention within the Defence Forces has been a significant issue in recent years with pay and conditions being frequently cited for poor recruitment. Figures today show that Army numbers have dropped below 6,000 for the first time. Fianna Fail Senator Lisa Chambers and Sinn Féin TD & spokesperson on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Matt Carthy

The Government is being accused of abandoning its own plan for the Gaeltacht. It follows the closure of the last available boarding school for boys looking to learn through the medium of Irish at second level. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

The news comes as Minister for Health today published a final Taskforce report on the issue. The move is with a view to reducing pressure on GPs and moving to more care in the community, as outlined under the Sláintecare health reform strategy. Tom Murray President of the Irish Pharmacy Union and GP Denis McAuley discuss.

The latest statistics show that nearly four in ten people in drug treatment centres require help with cocaine addiction. But how do we quantify cocaine use in Ireland? Dr Seán McDermott from the School of Chemical & BioPharmaceutical Sciences at TU Dublin has come up with a way by analysing wastewater samples in Kildare!

Team Ireland returned from the Olympics this afternoon after their record medal haul in Paris. Thousands lined O'Connell Street to greet the athletes and amongst it our reporter Barry Lenihan. Barry also heads to Portland Row where a crowd is gathering to welcome local Olympic hero Kellie Harrington.

The Hope and Courage Collective- A group who work to counter online disinformation and hate- have called on the Government to ensure social media companies turn off their recommender systems - which drive engagement. Director of Advocacy and Community Engagement with the Hope and Courage Collective, Niamh McDonald tellls us more.

More then 100,000 civilians have fled since the Ukrainian army invaded the Kursk region with the Russian army still scrambling to respond and today there are reports that the Russian region of Belgorod has also been atacked by Ukrainian forces. For the latest Ukrainian journalist Kateryna Malofieieva.

Heartbroken father, John O’Driscoll is preparing to row a boat 5,000 kilometres across the Atlantic. He's undertaking the challenge to raise funds for congenital heart disease, his 13 year old daughter Saoirse having died from the condition in April of this year. You can find more information or donate on teampowerof1.com.

A leading Irish human rights expert has called on governments around the world to support the International Court of Justice findings against Israel with a boycott. Professor Conor Gearty, from the London School of Economics, , author of 'Homeland Insecurity: The Rise and Rise of Global Anti-Terrorism Law', joins Cormac.

The final homecoming to the Magical Holy Island - As mourners gather for the funeral of the late Edna O'Brien. John Cooke speaks to the writer's son Carlo Gebler.

After five nights of disorder in Belfast, police will put a “significant visible policing operation” in place across Northern Ireland tonight. John Cooke speaks to Deirdre Heenan, Professor of Social Policy at Ulster University, and Alison Morris, Crime Correspondent- Belfast Telegraph about it.

As the country gears up for the 400 metre women's final in the Athletics this evening just before 7 o'clock- John Cooke is joined by RTÉ Sport Analyst Jessie Barr, and Rhasidat's former teachers' Maeve Cashin and Dee Lunny.

A special memorial walk will be held in Mayo this weekend to remember a young GAA fan, Joe Deacy, murdered in the county seven years ago this Monday. John Cooke speaks to RTÉ Reporter Barry Lenihan on the story.

Sarah speaks with Pat Davitt, Chief Executive of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers and Rory Hearne, Associate Professor of Social Policy at Maynooth University and Social Democrats candidate for Dublin North West about the latest report from the Simon Community.

Sarah discusses the issue with Dr Sara Wilford, Co-director of the Centre for Computing and Social Responsibility at De Montfort University in Leicester, who believes this age group are very vulnerable to being misled by fake news online.

There has been violent disorder in towns and cities across the UK since last Tuesday with violence also erupting on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday night in Belfast City. Our reporter Una Kelly joins Sarah with the latest.

Israeli Foreign Minister, Israel Katz, said the decision was made in response to what he described as Norway's anti-Israeli conduct, including its recognition of a Palestinian state. Zvika Klein, Editor-in-Chief of The Jerusalem Post, discusses the announcement with Sarah.

Sarah is joined by Mohammed Idris, owner of Bash Café, in south Belfast, which was targeted during last weekends unrest, and to Brother Kashif Akram a member of the executive committee for Belfast Islamic Centre.

Calls have been made for a safety review- specifically around the 14 kilometre Cliff Edge walking trail outside of the main visitor centre at the County Clare site. RTÉ Reporter John Cooke joins Sarah with the latest.

Sarah debates the issue with Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward and Sinn Fein TD and Spokesperson on Justice Pa Daly.

As new casualty figures are released by the Gaza health ministry , The Israeli military has issued new evacuation orders today for an area in northern Gaza that was heavily bombed at the start of the war. Sarah speaks to Juliette Touma, communications director with UNRWA, about the news.

Bangladesh's president has dissolved parliament a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country following a violent crackdown on a student-led uprising. Sarah is joined by S M Ferdousuzzaman to discuss the story.

Trouble erupted in the Sandy Row area of south Belfast last night for the second time in 72 hours. As unrest spreads across the UK, Sarah is joined by Justice Campaigner Billy McManus and MLA for South Belfast, Paula Bradshaw.

Sarah speaks to the Irish writer who has been spending time with Ronald Reagan's attempted assassin John Hinckley.

At 10pm Kellie Harrington will step into the ring in Paris to box for a gold medal. Sarah is joined by Christy Burke, who speaks about anticipation levels in the north inner city, and RTÉ boxing analyst Eric Donovan.

More medal success for Ireland at the Olympics today with rowing gold for Skibbereen duo Paul O’Donovan and Fintan McCarthy in the lightweight double sculls.but what lies behind that feel-good factor and why is it so contagious? Ian Robertson is a Professor in Trinity College Dublin and author of "How Confidence Works".

Dublin based immigration lawyer Imran Khursid has said that he no longer feels safe walking alone in the city centre following threats of violence made against him online, he spoke to Drivetime.

Intel has said it is working through further details to understand the impact of its cost-cutting measures in Ireland. The company said it would cut 15% of its workforce worldwide. Peter Burke, Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment.

The role of Bridesmaid is an honour, but can it also be a bit of a curse? There can be many fun moments, from organising the hen party to helping the bride find the perfect dress But what about when it comes to the bridesmaid dresses? Sara (Zara) Kennedy, Editor of the Irish Wedding Blog .

The HSE's obesity expert says he's seeing patients being admitted to hospital on a weekly basis after taking fake versions of Ozempic. The weight loss drug is typically used to treat diabetes and obesity, but has been growing in popularity due to online personalities and celebrities showing the drugs’ effect on weight loss. Reporter Una Kelly.

To date this year, 113 people have died on our roads - up more than 10% on this time last year - meanwhile, emergency responders say they have attended 270 traffic collisions in the past fourteen months. Wicklow GP and CRITICAL responder, Dr Mark Ruddy speaks to Sarah,

The Israeli military has announced that Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif has been killed in a strike it carried out last month in Gaza's southern area of Khan Younis. Sarah speaks to Or Yissachar from the Israel Defence and Security Forum.

Sinn Féin said it can deliver 50,000 affordable homes within five years, if in government. Households earning up to €90,000 a year would be eligible to buy these homes but the State would retain ownership of the land they are built on. To discuss this Eoin O'Broin, Sinn Fein spokesperson on Housing and Alan Dillon, Minister of State for Housing.

Fred C. Trump III the son of Trump’s late brother Fred Jr talks to us about his new book "All in the Family: The Trumps and How We Got This Way,'. The new book makes some explosive claims that the Trump campaign have denied the allegations.

The High Court has ruled today in a significant judgement that the State’s failure to provide for the basic needs of homeless International Protection Applicants is a breach of their fundamental rights, in a case brought by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission. Michael O’Neill, Head of Legal, Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

The government has been asked to assist over 60 people left out off work by a fire in Longford at the weekend where at least 13 businesses are trying to establish if - or when -they can re-open. Our reporter John Cooke met some of those affected by the fire today.

A new All-Island Strategic Rail Review published today sets out ambitious plans for halving train journey times between Ireland's major cities and tripling passenger numbers from 65 million annually to over 180 million by 2050. Sarah is joined by Dr. Brendan Flynn, Head of Political Science in the University of Galway.

Iran has accused Israel of assassinating Hamas’s political leader Ismail Haniyeh in a strike in Tehran and vowed to avenge his death as the attack dramatically raised the risk of a further escalation of regional hostilities. Sarah is joined by award winning journalist Gideon Levy, a columnist with the Israeli newspaper Haaretz.

James Kilroy was given the mandatory sentence of life in prison this week after being found guilty last week of murdering Valerie French Kilroy. He had claimed he was insane and suffering from cannabis induced psychosis. Valerie's family are now arguing that there is a "loophole" in legislation. Sarah is joined by Valerie's brother in studio.

Amy Kit-Mei Low, Médecins Sans Frontières Medical Referent in Gaza. has been working in the maternity and paediatric department at Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, one of the largest remaining hospitals in Gaza.

Tanaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Micheal Martin has advised Irish citizens against all travel to Lebanon and urged Irish citizens in Lebanon to leave the country by commercial mean. Sarah speaks to Enda Nevin an Irish citizen living in Lebanon and Foreign Correspondent Hannah McCarthy.

A turf row is simmering in South Dublin over a valuable playing field - with a rugby team accusing a local GAA club of a 'land grab' as it plans to buy the pitch the groups have shared for several years. Reporter Barry Lenihan

Youth mental health charity Jigsaw's Annual Report highlights a significant surge in demand. The group said it was their ‘most demanding year” since its establishment in 2006 with a surge in referrals and appointments for young people looking for mental health services. Mike Mansfield, Director of Communications at Jigsaw.

Parents leave is to be extended from seven weeks to nine weeks from tomorrow will be a welcome relief to families across the country. For more on these new measures, HR expert, Caroline Reidy.

Since the breakout of the conflict in 2022, more than 17,000 Ukrainians have found full time employment here with many more getting involved in local volunteering and social projects in their area. To tell us more about the campaign Claire McGowran, We Act Campaign Manager.

The Irish weather might not always be on our side, but people are continuing to swim in the sea this summer. One thing you don’t want to see floating past you are jellyfish, but which jellyfish do you want to avoid, which are harmless and how can you tell the difference? Ecologist and presenter of EcoEye Anja Murray tells us what to watch out for.

A new study released today from the RCSI research team at the Rotunda Hospital shows that it is safe for first-time mothers to spend the first 24 hours of their induced labour at home. Fergal Malone Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at RCSI and Consultant at the Rotunda Hospital tells us more.

The Government is due to proceed with plans to impose new rules on short-term property lettings with the aim of move freeing up thousands of properties in the private rental sector. To discuss this further Ireland South Fianna Fail MEP Cynthia Ní Murchi & Rory Hearne, from the Social Democrats.

Described as One of Ireland's Finest writers and a fearless teller of truths, Edna O'Brien died in London at the weekend. Edna's dying wish was to go home one last time, it's expected her funeral will take place in her native Co. Clare. Reporter John Cooke is in Scariff in Co. Clare where family members are planning to welcome her home.

The debate around the Dublin City Centre traffic plan has brought a renewed focus on the vibrancy of our city and town centres. Report by RTE Reporter Una Kelly

Andrew Brownlee CEO of Solas discussing the male/female divide in certain industries would not only unlock a larger supply of skills to meet work place demand, but also help in reducing gender pay gaps and increasing work-life balance for both genders

James Kavanagh discusses a major UK survey involving 26 tasters may have settled the great Tayto debate once and for all, as in it’s search for the best Cheese and Onion crisps, it ranked a ‘craft’ vintage cheese version of the northern Tayto crisps higher than the Cheese and Onion crisps made by Tayto in the Republic

Have you been dreaming of swapping the Irish weather for a life down under in Australia - Well that's exactly what Grainne Gallanagh did last year

The Road Safety Authority has launched a new TV ad to extend its Time-to-Talk campaign. The campaign aims to address the rising number of fatalities on Irish roads by encouraging people to have life-saving conversations with loved ones about their unsafe driving behaviours. Director of Partnerships and External Affairs at the RSA, Sarah O Connor.

The first phase of the measures will come into effect from 25 August and will see a number of restrictions on private cars using the parts of the north and south quays between 7am and 7pm Monday to Sunday. For reaction to this, Green Party councillor for Dublin’s South West Inner City Michael Pidgeon and CEO of Dublin Town Richard Guiney.

Former minister Éamon Ó Cuív announced he will stand down from politics at the next general election. The Fianna Fail TD for Galway West has been at the heart of Irish politics for 35 years serving at different times. He joined John in studio.

The words of Mr Justice Paul McDermott while imposing a 17-year sentence on taxi driver Raymond Shorten from Clondalkin in Dublin for the rape of two young women on separate nights in 2022. To discuss this Cliona Sadlier from The Rape Crisis Network.

Drew Harris told the Policing Authority that the unarmed gardaí showed great courage as they were subject to violence and abuse but they kept the situation from escalating last Monday week until the Public Order Unit arrived.

Stand up comedy! A great way to boost your confidence? Or your idea of a worst nightmare? Someone who knows all too well about how to work the room is Comedian Taran O Sullivan.

An Irish charity is changing the lives of young people from the Badjao community in the Philippines, and of the Gen Z Irish students who volunteer with them abroad. Richard Hogan, a former teacher and the founder of ‘Embrace Badjao’, and Jane Cowen, a volunteer with the charity and author of the Diary of Gen Z student.

The inquiry comes after a wave of allegations by past pupils of schools such as Blackrock College - prompted by brothers David and Mark Ryan sharing their story in a radio documentary on this station in 2022. Reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more

A report released by the Health Research Board shows that the amount of people treated for problem alcohol use last year was the highest it's been in over a decade. To discuss these findings Addiction Counsellor Michael Guerin and Dr Garrett McGovern, Medical Director & Addiction Specialist at the Priority Medical Clinic in Dundrum.

To discuss this is Fianna Fail Senator, Malcolm Byrne and the former Press Ombudsman Peter Feeney.

Today Irish Rail marks 40 years of the DART, the anniversary brings into focus how Irish transport infrastructure has evolved. Changes to the latest transport plan for Dublin have been met with opposition from politicians and business owners in the city. To discuss this Minister for Transport, Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan.

Diane Masterson is a 36-year-old woman who has end stage kidney disease. She urgently needs to start home dialysis - but she currently has no permanent place to live. Diane has been telling Sarah her story.

Sinn Fein has launched a new immigration policy which seeks an end to the ‘two-tier system’ favouring Ukrainians and calls for an ‘audit’ of services before asylum seekers are moved into any area. Pearse Doherty, Sinn Fein spokesperson on Finance and Professor Siobhan Mullally, director of the Irish Centre for Human Rights at University of Galway.

Christopher O'Sullivan Fianna Fáil TD for Cork and Architect Hugh Wallace debate the pro's and cons of one of housing builds.

Following seismic political events in the US the Vice President Kamala Harris is continuing to earn support and endorsements from several top Democrats. As momentum builds and potential challengers pledge her their support. John Brennan, former director of the CIA give his view.

With duo lingo and other language apps a click away on our phones it's never been easier to learn a new language, but are they the best way to learn new languages - Tish Mulholland, French, Spanish, and Chinese teacher at Sion Hill College in Dublin shares her view.

The waiting time for getting a slot for a driving test has varied in length over the years...and we often hear from drivers frustrated at the delays. But there is another consequences to those long waits. Susan Gray, founder of the Road Safety group, PARC.

The inquest into the death of Mayo pensioner Patrick Roland has heard recommendations to include training being giving to staff on how to deal with patients who express a desire to self discharge. Drivetimes John Cooke reports.

While many families might be busy planning days out this summer, thousands of other families could be missing out all down to a lack of proper facilities. Two parents, the driving force behind 'Changing Places Ireland' a campaign fighting for accessible toilet facilities for people with physical needs, Ann Healy and Aisling McNiffe join Cormac.

Fears are growing this evening of further unrest in Coolock in North Dublin after a week of disturbances, sparked by plans to house over five hundred asylum seekers in the area. A public meeting is planned at the site shortly reporter Barry Lenihan is in Coolock.

The All-Ireland Hurling Final weekend with Cork and Clare facing off for top honours. To tell us more by two legends of the game from Cork, Mark Landers All Ireland Final winning captain with Cork in 1999 and two-time All-Ireland winner for Clare - Seanie McMahon.

As we've been hearing, transport companies, health organisations and banking systems around the world have been struggling to overcome the "blue screen of death", after a major IT outage. To tell us more Leigh McGowran, Technology Journalist with Silicon Republic, and Michael Madden, Professor of Computer Science from the University of Galway.

Joe Biden is set to return to the campaign trail next week following a Covid-19 diagnosis on Wednesday, Despite reports over the past 24 hours that high profile names are urging him to step aside. For the latest on this Amber Phillips, Political Reporter with The Washington Post John Nichols, National Affairs Correspondent with The Nation.

Ursula Von der Leyen has been re-elected for a second term as European Commission President. We get reaction from Fianna Fáil MEP, Barry Andrews and Sinn Féin MEP, Lynn Boylan.

National charity - The Gambling Awareness Trust has announced former Armagh All-Ireland winner Oisin McConville as its new brand ambassador. This comes in the same week where the Rutland Centre's annual report showed.. 20% of its outpatient admissions were for gambling addiction. Oisin McConville joins Cormac.

a new study may have helped them reach new levels of mortification - as it required them to sing karaoke and then watch the videos back all in a bid to figure out the science behind why we blush. To tell us more the lead author of that new study Milica Nikolic Developmental Psychologist at the University of Amsterdam

Tents sheltering 15 asylum seekers were attacked on City Quay in Dublin earlier this week. One of those men, David spoke about his experience and the terror he and other IPA applicants encountered.

The mystery surrounding two Bronze Age axe-heads anonymously delivered to the National Museum last week continues. The discovery has reignited arguments around the use of metal detectors in Ireland, to tell us more Dr Ros Ó Maoldúin, Chair of the Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland and Liam Nolan, Member of the Irish Metal Detecting Society.

Two leading campaigners resigned from a national steering group for improving children's disability services. They say their concerns were ignored during two years advocating for parents on a special group established by Disabilities Minister Anne Rabbitte. Reporter Barry Lenihan.

Locals in a County Tipperary village have criticised a government pledge to improve engagement with communities where International Protection Applicants are to be accommodated, after 7 weeks of protests outside their local hotel. Reporter John Cooke has been to Tipperary to meet the locals.

Whether you are an Elf, Barbarian, a Wizard, or a Human, the benefits of playing "Dungeons and Dragons" can be great for your mental health! That's according to UCC research which identified escapism and social support as key aspects of the table top game. Orla Walsh is PhD researcher in UCC School of Applied Psychology has been looking into this.

A new report from the Rutland Centre shows a dramatic surge in the number of people seeking treatment for multiple addictions. The study says 62% of people presented with multiple addictions last year, up from 48% in 2022. Professor Colin O'Gara Head of Addiction Services at St John of God Hospital & Clinical professor of Psychiatry at UCD.

The Fact & Fiction campaign is an initiative that looks at challenging the narratives that exist around immigration in Ireland. Created by the South Dublin County Council, the campaign looks to stop misinformation about international protection applicants that has spread online. To tell us more Alan Edge, South County Dublin Independent Councilor.

Tents sheltering 15 asylum seekers were attacked on City Quay in Dublin last night. We hear from volunteer named Grainne who has been involved with a group of other volunteers helping other international protection applicants and get reaction from CEO of the Irish Refugee Council, Nick Henderson.

The review of treatment received by patients of North Kerry CAMHS is expected to contain even more harrowing details than the Maskey Review of two years ago. Our reporter Barry Lenihan has followed this story closely.

Minister for Integration Roderic O'Gorman has rejected suggestions that there was limited engagement with the local community in Coolock on a proposed new accommodation centre. For more on this, Youth Justice Project Leader with the KEEP Project, Keith O'Driscoll and Fianna Fáil TD, Jim O'Callaghan.

Dr Sindy Joyce - Assistant Professor in the Department of Sociology at the University of Limerick and member of the Council of State.

This week the Northern and Western Regional Assembly is urging the government to fast-track the delivery of 13 major infrastructure projects after a new study found that investment in the region is now on par with the least well-off areas of Europe in terms of infrastructure. John Daly, Economist with the Northern and Western Regional Assembly.

Irish Times Security and Crime Editor, Conor Lally and Senior Analyst with the Institute for Strategic Dialogue, Ciarán O'Connor discuss the concerns raised about the level of disinformation being spread online about yesterdays disturbances in Coolock.

In the US, the Republican National Convention begins in Milwaukee, Wisconsin today. To tell us more John Nichols of The Nation newspaper and Amanda Renteria, National Political Director during Hilary Clinton's Presidential Campaign and CEO of non-profit technology group "Code for America".

A number of tourism-related associations are raising concerns that the government’s delay in publishing new regulations for short-term holiday lets will have a ‘devastating’ impact on rural tourism. Reporter Una Kelly has more on this.

The controversial HSE recruitment embargo, in place since October last year, ended today, but Health unions have expressed concerns that the hiring freeze is being replaced with a staff ceiling. To tell us more Dr Rachel McNamara - Chair of the Non-consultant Hospital Doctor Committee for the Irish Medical Organisation

It's part of the fabric of Irish sporting culture and now Gaelic football and ladies' gaelic football have received State recognition as cultural practices that are part of Ireland’s living cultural heritage. To discuss this GAA correspondent of the Irish Times Sean Moran.

The Garda Public Order Unit is in situ at the former Crown Paints Factory in Coolock earmaked for the housing of International Protection applicants. We hear from our reporter Barry Lenihan who is in Coolock, Sinn Féin Dublin City Councillor Mícheál Mac Donncha & Trina O'Connor, Criminalogist and host of the Real lives Untold Podcast.

The Council of State met this afternoon to consider the government’s proposed new Defence Amendment Bill. This is only the fourth time in a decade that President Higgins has convened the Council. We hear from Conor King of Representative Association of Commissioned Officers in the defence forces and RTE’s Political Coverage Editor, David Murphy.

A group of International Protection Applicants have been moved out of a Co. Clare Hotel with just two day’s notice - over a year after the local community blocked roads in the area in protest at their arrival. Our Reporter John Cooke has followed the story since it began.

This afternoon three healthcare bodies signed a Memorandum of Understanding renouncing the practice of conversion therapy in Ireland. To discuss this Paul D'Alton, Associate Professor at the School of Psychology, at University College Dublin.

The Women's soccer team face England in a Euro qualifier tonight, both All-Ireland Football semi-finals take place this weekend and I haven't even mentioned South Africa versus Ireland in the rugby, the Wimbledon Finals and England against Spain on Sunday night in the Euro 2024 finals.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris is being urged to intervene in the case of Jean Tighe who disappeared in Lisbon four years ago tomorrow. Ms. Tighe's family insist the Portugese Police never properly investigated, while there are questions too over the efforts of Irish authorities in helping find the missing woman. Reporter Barry Lenihan.

A recent survey conducted in the US has found that the average age people start to feel uncool is 39. Two thirds of those surveyed believed coolness could be recovered but is that really possible? To talk about this in more detail, Behavioural Pyschologist and current 39-year-old, Padraig Walsh.

Climate Change Advisory council has said Government should do more to help people install heatpumps to make houses more energy efficient. To discuss this Steven Matthews, Green Party TD for Wicklow and Spokesperson for Planning and Local Government and Sean Moynihan, CEO, Alone

It's been over 14 months since a devastating civil war broke out in Sudan. In what's being described as "horror beyond imagination", the country is now hurtling toward a humanitarian disaster on a scale not seen in decades. For more on this I'm joined Concern’s regional director for the Horn of Africa, Amina Abdulla.

All residents of Gaza City have been told by the Israeli military to evacuate south to the central Gaza Strip, as operations in the north intensify. Leaflets were airdropped on the city instructing "everyone" to leave. Medcial Coordinator Marina Pomares speaks to Cormac from Gaza.

The world finds itself at a number of tipping points in 2024 - with wars in Gaza and Ukraine; tensions in the far east, elections in the US and the ongoing AI revolution. University of Oxford Professor Ciaran Martin, founding CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre at GCHQ joins Cormac.

Homeowners in Donegal have reacted furiously to comments from the former Attorney General that the Defective Blocks redress scheme "would lead to significant abuse" from applicants. Paul Gallagher made the remarks in newly published legal advice for the multi-billion euro Mica Redress scheme. Our reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

Tori Towey has arrived back in Ireland accompanied by her mother Caroline. Ms Towey's case was raised in the Dáil earlier this week by the Sinn Fein Leader Mary Lou McDonald who said the 28-year-old was unable to leave Dubai after she was attacked in her home and faced charges of attempted suicide and alcohol consumption, Tori spoke to Cormac.

Yesterday, more tents housing migrants were dismantled near Charlemont Luas stop in Dublin city centre. Dáil breaks today for its summer recess and still no long-term solution to the issue has been put in place. Nick Henderson, CEO of the Irish Refugee Council discusses this further.

Dublin Zoo says all of its elephants are well today but it is continuing to monitor the herd 24 hours a day following the deaths of two elephants from a virus and a positive result for another female elephant - Asha. For more on this Gerry Creighton, founder of Global Elephant Care and former Operations Manager at Dublin Zoo.

The FAI who has named Heimir Hallgrimsson as the new Ireland men's senior manager. He was Iceland's joint manager which they famously beat England in the Euros in 2016. He has also managed Jamaica in the last two years. To tell us more Gavin Cooney, of the 42 and Christopher Harrington, who has formerly coached football in Iceland.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has told the Dáil that the travel ban on Tori Towey - the Irish woman who is facing criminal charges in Dubai - has been lifted. Sarah speaks to Tori's Aunt, Ann Flynn and is joined by Sinn Fein TD Claire Kerrane and Caolfhinn Gallagher, Human Rights Barrister in London.

Should inheritance tax be cut in the next budget? To debate this is Neale Richmond, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Rathdown and Minister of State with responsibility for financial services, credit unions and insurance and Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD for Dublin South-West.

The Government is to make €8.3 billion in additional funding available for use in Budget 2025 and with tax cuts and health being prioritoised what will it mean for the housing budget. To debate this Minister of State for Planning & Local Government Fine Gael TD Alan Dillon and Sinn Féin TD and Spokesperson for Housing Eoin O Broin

new research has found that more than six million staff in the UK plan to “work from the beach” this summer as growing numbers of people take advantage of flexible working practices. Aisling O Rourke, Communications & Media Coach, has tried and tested the 'work from the beach' method and she tells us more.

The Government is to make €8.3 billion in additional funding available for use in Budget 2025, its last before the next general election. It means that total spending will rise by 6.9% in 2025, once again breaching the Government's own National Spending Rule. Minister for Finance Jack Chambers joins Sarah.

The Mental Health Services in Ireland have reached a tipping point says Inspector of Mental Health Services Professor Jim Lucey. Just 1 euro in every 20 spent on healthcare going towards mental health he says something has to change. He joined Cormac in studio.

The 23-year old was killed by a drug addict out on bail as he cycled near his home in Monaghan 13 years ago. Helen McEntee insists no further investigations are needed. The Dail is expected to pass a motion demanding another look at the case. Our reporter Barry Lenihan tells us more.

Today MyHome.ie published a property price report which indicates that a strong labour market and looser lending rules are driving house prices upwards. To give us more detail author of the report, Chief Economist with Bank of Ireland, Conall MacCoille.

Soldier Cathal Crotty, who was given a suspended sentence for beating a young woman unconsious in Limerick, is to be formally discharged from the Defence Forces on Thursday. To tell us more Conor Gallagher is crime and security correspondent with the Irish Times.

Daniel MacSweeney spoke to us in March about his very important role as the Director of Authorised Intervention at Tuam. Daniel is the man appointed by the Minister for Children to direct the excavation at Tuam Mother and Baby Home which of course is anxiously awaited by families and survivor's groups.

The National Fodder & Feed Security Committee have been meeting with the Agriculture Minister over growing concerns that there will be a fodder crisis this winter. €15 million is the figure the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association are calling for but will they get it? Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue .

Have you or would you ever choose to be part of the 5am club? The club that gets you up at the crack of dawn, before everyone else with the hope of winning the day. Does it actually make you more productive and focused? To discuss this Trainer and Fitness Expert Karl Henry.

The total number of deaths in road accidents so far this year stands at 97, which is 12 more than in the same period last year. Director of partnerships and external affairs, Road Safety Authority, Sarah O'Connor joins Cormac in studio to discuss the worrying trend.

A “one stop shop” for patients with asthma and COPD has opened its doors to the public It comes in the form of 'Care Hubs' which are helping thousands of patients to be treated closer to home by specialist respiratory teams. Stanley Miller, HSE National Clinical Lead for Respiratory.

As US President Joe Biden prepares for a major US TV interview to be aired tonight in an attempt to assuage concerns following his disastrous TV debate with Donald Trump, John Nichols, National Affairs Correspondent for the Nation joins Cormac to discuss the state of play for the Biden campaign.

As the dust settles on the UK election Barry Lenihan reports from Northern Ireland on what has been an historical election.

As voters in the UK go to the polls Drivetime's Barry Lenihan has the latest on the Elections in the North.

A security guard has been found guilty of masterminding "graphic" plans to kidnap, rape and murder TV presenter Holly Willoughby. London based journalist Enda brady has the details.

Francie Gorman, President of the IFA joins Cormac to discuss famers crops and fodder worries resulting from this summers unpredictable weather.

AONTU leader Peadar Toibín has accused the government of being soft on crime which has added to a rise in criminal activity and has highlighted the issue of prison space availability as one of the reasons for this. He joined Drivetime to debate the issue with Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward.

Now is the perfect time to put a little TLC into your garden and for many of us, we'll take all the help we can get - even if it is from our toddlers! Mary Bishop, Education Coordinator at "Grow It Yourself", Ireland with some tips on get our little ones started in the garden.

Earlier we spoke to Garda Superintendent Liam Geragthy in the wake of four more tragic deaths on our roads in the last 24 hours. He said that a visible Garda presence on the roads moderates driver behaviour. To discuss this further Mark O'Meara President of the GRA and by Triona O'Connor, criminologist and host of the Real Lives Untold podcast.

Tens of thousands of Palestinians are seeking shelter and a safe location, as the exodus from Gaza’s second city of Khan Younis continues in response to Israeli military evacuation orders. UNRWA Senior Communications Officer Louise Wateridge from the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, tells us about the situation there.

The Minister for Further and Higher Education Patrick O'Donovan has received approval to publish the bill that will outlaw the practice of student acommodation providers insisting on 51-week leases. The Minister for Further and Higher Education Patrick O'Donovan.

The Tories in the UK have accused Labour Leader Keir Starmer of planning to be a part-time Prime Minister. The criticism comes after he told Virgin Radio that if elected he plans to finish work by 6pm on Fridays to spend time with his children. To discuss this Sinead Brady, the Career Psychologist and author of Total Reset.

The latest from on the French election is that at least 200 candidates have stood down ahead of the runoff election on Sunday. Cormac speaks to Charlotte Minvielle a member of The Ecologists, a green political party. She’s also a candidate in the French National Assembly elections.

The biggest overhaul of the Defence Forces command and structure was brought to Cabinet today. For reaction to the latest developments Cathal Berry, Independent TD for Kildare South and former Head of the Army Ranger wing in the Defence Forces.

Cork South West Deputy, Christopher O’Sullivan is calling for an outright ban on tanning beds Consultant Dermatologist, Prof Anne-Marie Tobin & Joe McGlinchey, sunbed salon operator, supplier & a board member of the Sunbed Association, Irish branch.

Two days until voters go to the polls in the north in the UK General Election. Northern Ireland will return 18 MPs to the UK parliament. With some tight battles in key seats, there is a good chance this election could alter the political landscape up north. Reporter Una Kelly has been taking a look at some of the key constituency races.

Minister for Justice Helen McEntee is expected to tell Cabinet tomorrow that she intends to add Egypt, India and Brazil to the State's list of safe countries. To discuss this move Dr Ciara Smyth Lecturer, School of Law at the University of Galway and Jim O'Callaghan Fianna Fail Spokesperson on Justice and TD for Dublin Bay South.

Now a new initiative to trigger memories and conversation among dementia and Alzheimer's patients has proven such a huge success in Cork, there are calls now for the scheme to be rolled out nationally. To tell us more about this Margaret O'Sullivan, Executive Librarian at the Rory Gallagher Music Library in Cork city.

Bin companies could increase their prices in order to make up for the money they have lost since the introduction of the Deposit Return Scheme. To discuss this further Ossian Smyth, Minister of State at the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and Labour Senator Marie Sherlock.

We all know people who get along great with their in-laws, even consider them to be "second parents". But would you ever bring them on holidays with you? Journalist Claire Ronan tells us more.

You can go to college to get a degree without the Leaving Certificate points race or a CAO application. The Tertiary Degrees are co-designed and co-delivered by the Education and Training Boards and Higher Education Institutions. To tell us more Dr Fiona Maloney, a Director of the National Tertiary Office.

Dublin City Council is due to discuss the city's transport plan during its meeting later. Changes are due to come into effect in August. Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail Emer Higgins has concerns about the impact it could have on jobs and retail sales in the city.

With Mikie O'Loughlin, Showbiz Editor RSVP at Magazine

With Professor Eamon Keenan, National Clinical Lead, HSE Addiction Services

With Conor Gallagher, Irish Times Crime & Security Correspondent & Diana Byrne, from Women of Honour

With Dr. Mary O'Kane, Lecturer in Psychology and Early Childhood Education, and author of 'Perfectly Imperfect Parenting'

Dublin man's dream holiday quickly turned into disaster earlier this month, while on a 'once in a lifetime' holiday in Alaska, the seaplane he was travelling on came crashing down in a remote forest. By some miracle he survived and Sean Killeen joins Sarah to tell us more about his experience.

With Summer well upon us many people will have their holiday getaway plans sorted, but have you ensured your home security is up to spec while you're away? some tips to help keep your house safe while you're away we're joined by Peter Murray, Director of the Security Institute of Ireland.

With Pharmacist Sheena Mitchell

In a few hours President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take to the debate stage in CNN Atlanta in Georgia. To discuss it John Nichols, is national affairs correspondent with the Nation.

The National Rape Crisis Helpline, recorded over 18,600 contacts last year the highest level ever. The new data follow comments from both the Taoiseach and the Justice Minister that we are experiencing an epidemic of gender-based violence. Stephanie of Keefe is the CEO of CUAN, the new domestic, sexual and gender based violence agency.

There has been criticism today that long awaited affordable housing developments in north Dublin which have been offered for sale are anything but affordable! Some people purchasing the first affordable homes in the Oscar Traynor Road Scheme Dublin City could pay up to €475,000 for a three-bedroom home. Social Democrats TD Cian O’Callaghan.

The Assisted Human Reproduction Bill, which includes a legal framework for both domestic and international surrogacy, has passed all stages in the Oireachtas. To discuss this further now is Fine Gael Senator Mary Seery Kearney and Cathy Wheatly who is the spokesperson for Irish Families Through Surrogacy.

Online safety experts have been meeting in Dublin today to debate what can be done to create a safer digital space for children and young people. Professor Sonia Livingstone was the keynote speaker at today’s event and she is one of Europe’s foremost experts on children’s rights in a digital age and she joins Sarah to tell us more.

Irish/Palestinian citizen Zak Hania -who was trapped in Gaza for seven months before managing to escape to Ireland, has been hit with fresh tragedy. Zak speaks to Cormac.

Anyone dreaming of swapping the Irish weather for the tropics of Australia and exploring life down under? Luke O’Faolain a well known radio presenter decided he needed a change and moved to Australia last year with his partner. He joined Cormac on the line from Cairns.

Former RTÉ journalist Tommie Gorman has died at the age of 68. He retired from RTÉ in April three years ago after working at RTE for more than 40 years. We're joined now by John Downing of the The Irish Independent, a long time friend and colleague of Tommie's by by former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern.

As you've been hearing tributes are being paid to the late legendary GAA commentator Micheal O Muircheartaigh who has passed away at the age of 93. To remember Micheal we hear from Alan Milton, Kieran Donaghy, Dara O Cinneide, Liam Griffin and Tomas O'Se.

A summer UK general election may have been a surprise, but Northern Ireland's political parties have been preparing for this campaign for some time. Some constituencies are much more competitive than others our reporter Una Kelly is taking a look at some of the key battlegrounds

The Labour Court has told Aer Lingus and the Irish Airline Pilots Association (IALPA) that it will not be intervening in their pay dispute now, but will review the matter in July. To discuss this Martin Kenny TD, Sinn Fein spokesperson on Communications and Transport.

As we heard earlier, the RTE Director General has announced a new strategy that will see significiant structural changes to the organization. The DG told a meeting of staff this afternoon that the proudction of programmes such as Fair City and the Late Late Show will be moved off site. He joined Cormac in studio.

Tuath Housing provided homes for more than 7,000 people across 16 local authorities last year. In its latest annual report Tuath said despite the challenges of inflation and rising cost of living it is making progress towards addressing the historic shortage of homes in Ireland. To tell us more Sean O'Connor, chief executive of Tuath Housing.

It's a horrible feeling - waking up in a cold sweat after a nightmare. But just what is the cause of nightmares, how do they impact our sleep and is there anything we can do to avoid them? to discuss this is health scientist and sleep coach Tom Coleman.

From how you prepare your morning coffee, to how we shop, to how we grieve - rituals affect every part of our lives. But just why do we rely on them and what happens when they are disrupted? Behavioral psychologist Padraig Walshe discusses the good, bad and the ugly of rituals.

The Defence Forces have commenced internal proceedings against Private Crotty but what are the options for the DPP if there's an appeal in this case ? and what decision making goes into sentencing? For more on this by senior counsel Tom O’Malley, and retired Professor of Law at the University of Galway.

Over the weekend, thousands of people took part in protests to show their support for Natasha O'Brien. Natasha has continuously made the point that this is not about her, but about the many others who have experienced gender based violence. Sarah speaks to Natasha and Meav McLoughlin Doyle, who survived years of abuse at the hands of her ex husband

Just one more week to go until the kids are officially off school for the summer holidays and CHAOS ensues for many parents. So, do you feel the pressure to keep the kids busy? And secondly, do you feel pressure from your employer to still maintain business as usual? Aoife Lee, mum of three and parenting coach at 'parent support.ie' discusses.

Limerick Assault victim Natasha O'Brien speaks to Cormac. Natasha was beaten unconscious by soldier Cathal Crotty who boasted about it on social media and walked free from court this week.

Aer Lingus pilots have announced they are now going to go on strike on Saturday 29 June. Members of Irish Airline Pilots' Association - IALPA - at Aer Lingus are to engage in an eight-hour strike as part of an escalation of their pay dispute. Captain Mark Tighe, president of IALPA

Media Consultant & Founder of Effective Aid Ukraine Tom McEnaney has recently returned from his latest trip to Ukraine where he has been helping to redevelop a centre for 100 boys and young men with significant special needs in the Lviv region. He speaks to Cormac about the realities of trying to provide aid in war torn Ukraine.

With two weeks to polling, and several polls predicting electoral wipeout for the Tories, Conservative MPs in the North of England claim they're being abandoned by the party. Reporter Barry Lenihan is on the Road to Westminster and he is in the North West of England, in Burnley.

The latest report from the Growing up in Ireland study published today has found that today's teens smoke and drink less than their counterparts a decade ago but they are substantially more at risk of depressive symptoms. Today's study is tracking the opinions of 6,000 13 years olds. For reaction on this Mark Smyth, Chartered Clinical Psychologist

Dóchas, the Irish Network for Humanitarian Organisations has told the government that there is "no time to lose" in terms of action in the areas of conflict, climate and hunger. For more on this Dóchas CEO, Jane-Ann McKenna.

The Oireachtas debate on the EU migrant and asylum pact has now been extended and the Dáil vote has been put back to next week. For more on this Fianna Fail TD, James Lawless and Peadar Tobin TD, Aontu Leader.

Irish consumers pay on average 42 per cent more for basic goods and services than their European Union counterparts. Eurostat’s latest price comparison survey says Ireland is the second most expensive state in the EU - behind only Denmark. Eoin Burke Kennedy, the economics correspiondent at The Irish Times, has more on these figures

A serving soldier who beat a woman unconscious in a random street attack, and boasted about it on social media, has walked free from court after being given a fully suspended sentence which the victim described as "not justice". To discuss this David Raleigh, Freelance journalist in Limerick and CEO of Women's Aid Sarah Benson.

We hear from Cliodna O'Flynn an Irish Journalist based in the Canaries where thousands of Irish people will be flying to over the next few days, Elaina Fitzgerald Kane, Former President of the Irish Hotels Federation and the Irish Tourism Confederation and Donal Moriarty, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer with Aer Lingus.

M&S originally banned the fibre in 2020 following pressure from campaign group Peta, who raised concerns around the welfare of shearing the animals. Since then, confidence has been restored following the launch of a voluntary programme, the 'Responsible Alpaca Standard' to tell us more Paul O Brennan, Vice Chair of the Alpaca Association of Ireland

The battle to be the next leader of the Green Party has started with Minister for Children and Integration Roderic O’Gorman and Senator Pippa Hackett both declaring their interest in the role following the shock resignation of Eamon Ryan. We hear from Minister of State for Land Use and Biodiversity Pippa Hackett.

It's the second of three phases of restoration. The 1.5 kilometres goes from Clones to Clonfad in County Monaghan and includes a new marina in Clones, restored canal and towpath and engineering works. To tell us more Waterways Ireland chief executive John McDonagh.

About one quarter of primary and post primary pupils reported that they were bullied while a third of post primary pupils said they didn't feel they could fully express themselves in the school environment. For reaction James O’Higgins Norman, UNESCO Chair on Bullying and Cyberbullying DCU & Simon Lewis, principal Carlow Educate Together.

Delays in screening and surgery. Radiotherapy services not staffed and clinical trials short of target. These are some of the results of the underfunding of the National Cancer Strategy. To discuss this Professor Michaela Higgins, President of the Irish Society for Medical Oncology.

As Women's Aid marks 50 years in operation - domestic abuse disclosures have hit a record high. The Annual Impact report published by Women's Aid today details over 40,000 reports of domestic abuse against women and children in 2023. To discuss the report is Eavan Ward, Director of Regional Services with Women's Aid.

Green Party leader Eamon Ryan has announced that he is stepping down as party leader and will not run in the next election. For more on this now, Minister of State for Community Development, Integration & Charities, Joe O'Brien.

It's just over two weeks to polling in the British General Election. All this week, reporter Barry Lenihan is on the Road to Westminster - examining the issues that matter to candidates and voters across England. Today its Sunderland in the North East of England.

The Irish Airline Pilots’ Association must give the company at least seven days notice of any industrial action. The Finance Minister Michael McGrath today called on Aer Lingus management and unions to get involved in discussions to avoid threatened industrial action. For the latest Donal Moriarty, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer with Aer Lingus.

Today, a Drugs Awareness Symposium was held in Kilkenny discussing issues around addiction and access to services, two of the keynote speakers Lisa Robson, HSE Clinical Lead in the Substance Misuse Service South East and Packie Owens who shared his addiction story.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has dissolved the six-member war cabinet following the resignation earlier this month of centrist leader Benny Gantz. We hear from the former prime minister of Israel, Ehud Olmert.

The Road Safety Authority are urging people to wear seatbelts as new research reveals a 4% decrease in seat belt wearing rates. To discuss this Director of partnerships and external affairs with the Road Safety Authority Sarah O'Connor.

The UN Refuge Agency UNHCR is marking Refugee Week this week calling on Irish communities to come together to show support for the thousands of families and individuals who have sought safety from war and persecution here. To discuss this UNHCR's Senior External Relations Associate Aoife Kavanagh and Homayoon Shirzad.

A new report suggests that for the first time, online outlets are now the main source of news for people living in Ireland surpassing television, radio, social media and newspapers. For more on this, Multimedia Reporter with Independent.ie, Maeve McTaggary.

At a weekend concert in Leipzig, Germany, British star Rod Stewart was booed after showing images of the Ukrainian flag the country's president Volodymyr Zelensky. This came as a weekend "Summit for Peace in Ukraine" failed to come to an agreement on how peace could be reached between Russia and Ukraine. To discuss this Ukrainian MP Lesia Vasylenko

It's Father's Day this weekend and for many this will be a weekend of celebrations but for all the dad's out there, according to a new you turn into you dad at age 43!!!!! Behavioural Psychologist Pádraig Walsh discusses.

Drivetime speaks with Wallace Thompson , a founding member of the DUP who believes the voice of northern Protestants would be stronger in a united Ireland than it is currently within the UK.

A 50-year-old taxi driver, who was described as preying on vulnerable young women, has been found guilty of rape. Eimear Dodd, court reporter with CCC.Nuacht.. and by Rachel Morrogh, CEO of Dublin Rape Crisis Centre detail and discuss.

A global first-of-its-kind initiative out of the Technical University of the Shannon is poised to transform childhood cancer survivorship care in Ireland. PhD Scholar and CHAMPS co-creator Jenny Fitzpatrick outlines.

Notices have been put in Designated Accommodation Centres around the country informing residents that once they reached their 90th day their belongings will be transported away . Emma Lane Spollen, national co-ordinator of the Ukraine Civil Society and by Mags Donnelly from Borrisokane discuss.

Independent Ireland MEP Ciaran Mullooly, Fianna Fáil Senator Lisa Chambers and Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh reflect on the political week that was for European election results and some of the big gains and losses for candidates.

It is Infant Mental Health Awareness Week and 'Children’s Health Ireland' is looking to raise awareness around the impact of electronic devices on parents, infants and children. New research shows increased smartphone use around babies can impact their development. To discuss this C.H.I Paediatric Clinical Psychologist, Dr Claire Crowe.

The wait is over for Fianna Fáils Billy Kelleher who claimed the 2nd seat in the Ireland South constituency. We get reaction from him and hear from Independent MEP for Ireland Midlands North West Luke 'Ming' Flanagan.

Damien Dempsey is launching a project to encourage children to make space for music and folklore. The Songs & Stories initiative is hoping to nurture the next generation of songwriters, singers and storytellers and keep our traditions alive. Galway based teacher & Founder of Inspiring You.ie, Philip Cribbin and Damien Dempsey tell us more.

Tánaiste and leader of the Fianna Fáil Party Micheal Martin.

Potent synthetic substances, new drug mixtures and changing patterns of use pose growing threat a growing threat in Ireland according to a new a report by the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction. Dr. Eoghan Quigley is Drug Policy Analyst with the EU Drugs Agency and Project Manager and scientific writer of the report

Hot Rodent men is the new slang term currently going viral, it seems to have been born from the recent growth in popularity of actors such as Timothee Chalamet, Josh O’Connor and even our very own Barry Keoghan. To tell us more, Psychotherapist with Maynooth Counselling & Psychotherapy, Helen Vaughan.

New research has found people in Ireland living with HIV are still stigmatised by many medical professionals. The report is part of project 'RISE'. To discuss this Consultant in Infectious Diseases in Beaumont Hospital & Senior Lecturer at the RCSI Dr Eoghan de Barra, and Michael O'Dea, who is living with HIV and is one of the leads on Project RISE

In a world that’s filled with lots of turmoil and change, it's sometimes hard to find a reason to smile or laugh. But the experts would say that during darker times, it’s even more important to crack a smile and share a laugh. To tell us more Psychotherapist, Writer and Mindfulness teacher, Padraig O’Morain.

Counting continues in the Ireland South and Midlands North West Constituencies. We hear from ack Chambers Fianna Fail Minister of State at the Department of Transport and at the Department of the Environment and Labour's Duncan Smith TD for Dublin Fingal.

More election coverage with People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy and Green Party TD Neasa Hourican.

Could our homes and gardens be facing a bamboo crisis? One home-owner in the UK has reported a £100,000 bill for damage caused by the plant, while environmental consultancy 'Environet' says its lines are flooded through the summer with gardeners looking for help. Noeleen Smyth, Assistant Professor in Environmental Horticulture at UCD tells us more.

More election coverage with Minister of State with responsibility for Financial Services, Credit Unions & Insurance Neale Richmond and Social Democrat TD Gary Gannon.

Counts are continuing and votes are being distributed in all three of the European constituencies this evening. We hear political reaction to all this I'm joined now by Dara Calleary, Fianna Fail Minister of State for Trade Promotion and Digital Transformation and by Pearse Doherty Sinn Fein spokesperson on Finance.

The science shows that having a dip in the sea can have a major impact, not just on your physical health but also your mental health. To tell us more circadian biologist, immunologist and avid sea swimmer, Professor Annie Curtis.

Helium Arts is a children’s charity dedicated to enhancing the wellbeing of children and young people with lifelong physical health conditions through creative arts programmes. To tell us more, Dr Pamela O’Connor, Consultant Neonatologist Pediatrician at Children’s Health Ireland at Crumlin, The Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital, Dublin.

We get political reaction from Niall Boylan MEP Candidate for Dublin and Minister Martin Heydon of FG gives us his assessment of that and the European Election counts.

We hear from Fianna Fáil MEP candidate Barry Andrews , labour Party Leader, Ivana Bacik and Social Democrat TD, Cian O 'Callaghan.

With the final of the women's 400 metres in Rome tonight Irish hopes are riding on Rhasidat Adeleke and Sharlene Mawdsley and Nicola Tuthill goes in the hammer final too. Greg Allen is in Rome for the latest.

Bandon singer songwriter Aine Duffy knows all about the costs of touring around the country, so she decided to build her own stage!!out of a donkey box..and take it around the country.

Hayfever is now so prevalent in Ireland, there are up to 17 different types of pollen spores that can trigger people, and the different seasons can run for up for nine months. But we're heading for peak grass pollen season now ...for over one million sufferers. Pharmacist Sheena Mitchell has some tips to help deal with hayfever.

Divers have been brought in to join the ongoing search for TV doctor and newspaper columnist Dr Michael Mosley who went missing after going on a coastal walk on a Greek island. Helena Smith, Guardian correspondent in Greece has the latest.

Cormac is joined by Colin Judge who will represent Ireland for the second time at the Paralympics in table tennis. The Dublin native has been in excellent form since those Games and will be hoping to build on his recent performances for Paris & by Stephen McNamara, Chief Executive of Paralympics Ireland.

Dr. Syed Sayeed, a plastic surgeon from New York, returned a few weeks ago from a three-week medical mission in Gaza with the charity Med-Global. He joins Cormac to detail what he saw first hand and some of the patients he will never forget.

Helena Smith, Guardian's correspondent in Greece,

Have you tried to make a carbonara in an air fryer? Giuseppe Crupi, Director of Pinocchio cookery school in Dublin gives the Italian view point.

Dr Jilan Wahba Abdalmajid, Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland. Margaret Harris, Spokesperson for the World Health Organisation respond to an Israeli strike on a school in a refugee camp.

David Mencer, Israeli government spokesman responds following calls for probe after Israel strike on UN school.

With John Cooke, Una Kelly and Barry Lenihan

Chair of the Climate Change Advisory Council, Marie Donnelly, and Dr Diarmuid Torney, associate professor in the School of Law and Government at Dublin City University

with John Lannon, CEO of DORAS, Limerick based human rights and migrant support group

With James Madden, Vetinary Officer with Leitrim County Council and a member of Vetinary Ireland, and Patrick O'Donovan, Minister for Further and Higher Education

Peter Thorne, Professor in Physical Geography (Climate Change) at Maynooth University in Ireland and Director of the Irish Climate Analysis and Research Units group (ICARUS)

Brian Cooke, Director of the Society of the Irish Motor Industry

with Jen Trzeciak, founder of Way Ahead Therapy and registered Occupational Therapist

with Hugh Brennan, CEO of Ó Cualann

Stephen Kirwin, Partner and Head of Immigration and International Law Department at KOD Lyons Solicitors & Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward

with Children's Author Sarah Webb

Reporter Una Kelly

Gareth Browne, Journalist with The Economist based in the Middle East & Gershon Baskin, negotiator and Middle East Director with the International Communities Organization

John Collins, Hospital Porter at Cork University Hospital

DONALD Trump has been holding a news conference in the last few minutes at Trump Tower on New York's 5th Avenue a day after he was convicted of falsifying business records Former acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney & Amber Phillips of The Washington Post give their reaction.

This week we learned from a report by the Environmental Protection Agency that Ireland is set to reduce its total greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile yesterday the government signed off on plans to introduce a new biogas strategy. Francie Gorman IFA President & Sadhbh O’Neill ,Senior climate advisor to Friends of the Earth Ireland debate.

It's thirty years since a Royal Air Force Chinook helicopter crashed on the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland. There were no survivors - all twenty-five passengers and four crew were killed in the crash. This weekend sixteen of the bereaved families have joined to form the Chinook Justice Campaign .

Ahead of the Irish women's Euro qualifier against Sweden tonight, concerns were raised following Captain Katie McCabe's late return from a post-season trip to Australia last week, but jut what is jet lag and how to you deal with it. Dr John Garvey, Consultant respiratory and sleep physician at St Vincent's University Hospital in Dublin outlines.

More reaction from the Trump hush money trial verdict. Former CIA Director John Brennan joins Cormac to give his views.

New research from pension provider, Irish Life, suggests women need to work eight years longer than men to achieve the same pension pot at retirement - leaving more working women at risk of old age poverty. Director in Employer Solutions at Irish Life, Shane O'Farrell tells us more.

The government signed off on plans to introduce a new biogas strategy, which will include a €40m grant scheme for biogas developers this week but with a damming EPA report this week. For more on this, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue.

With just over a week to go until the local elections Drivetime reporters have been travelling the country to ask you about the issues in your city or county council area. John Cooke is in Tipperary

It was initially to be opened in 2022 but a new completion date of February next year has now been given by the builders BAM for the new Hospital to the Oireachtas Public Accounts Committee today. We hear Green Party TD Neasa Hourigan's view.

Tents housing asylum seekers were cleared from the Grand Canal in Dublin this morning, the third such clearance in recent weeks. To discuss this Dr Fiona O'Reilly of Safetynet primary care and also by Paul Murphy, People Before Profit TD.

Candidates for the Midlands North West constituency discuss the issues that matter to you in next Friday's vote. From our Galway studio, Fianna Fail Senator Lisa Chambers, Independent MEP Luke Ming Flanagan, Independent Ireland candidate Ciaran Mulooly, Independent candidate Peter Casey, and Independent candidate Saoirse McHugh.

Multiple news outlets are reporting that US made munitions used in deadly Rafa attack. Christiaan Triebert is a reporter with the New York Times Visual Investigations team.

Candidates for the Midlands North West constituency discuss the issues that matter to you in next Friday's vote. From our Galway studio, Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh, Sinn Fein MEP Chris McManus, Green Party Senator Pauline O'Reilly, Aontu leader Peadar Toibin, and Social Democrats candidate Rory Hearne.

With less than two weeks until the local elections on June 7th, Our reporters are travelling the country to ask you about the issues in your city or county council area. Farming, Floods and Controversial new Town Centre Enhancement work. John Cooke is on the local election trail in Roscommon.

There has also been controversy lately about the removal of the complex needs criteria when assessing resource needs in special schools. As preparation for a new school year begins will all children with special educational needs get a school place? Minister of State with responsibility for Special Education & Inclusion Hildegarde Naughton.

The Palestinian flag was raised at Leinster House earlier today following a decision by the Government to formally recognise the state of Palestine after a Cabinet meeting this morning. Cormac speaks to Ophir Falk, Foreign policy adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

The cost of living crisis is obviously affecting college students but are they working long hours in part-time jobs and therefore losing out their college education? Have students got the balance wrong? To discuss this former lecturer at Munster Technological University, Tom O'Connor.

Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications Eamon Ryan

Discrimination and stigma are major issues faced by people with the mental health condition psychosis according to a new survey. To discuss this Dr Karen O'Connor, Consultant Psychiatrist, & National Clinical Lead in Early Intervention in Psychosis in the HSE and Nicola Byrne CEO of Shine.

With less than two weeks until the local elections on June 7th. Our reporters are travelling the country to ask you about the issues in your city or county council area. John Cooke was speaking to voters in Galway

The Minister for Mental Health and Older People Mary Butler has today announced the allocation of an additional €10 million in funding for mental health services. The focus is in child and youth mental health including Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services known as CAMHS and online safety for children. For more on this Minister Mary Butler.

There has been widespread international condemnation of Isreal after dozens of people were killed yesterday following an Israeli airstrike on a refugee camp in Rafah. Sam Rose, Director of Planning with UNRWA in Gaza.

Budget 2025 has been a key focus at the National Economic Dialogue in Dublin Castle taking place today. Taoiseach Simon Harris who adressed the conference said that Cost-of-living measures "must once again be a focus" for Budget 2025. For more on this, Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe.

We are now almost into full wedding season mode. But what if you are sitting down to draw up your guest list... and you're coming under family pressure to invite ALL the cousins... but you don't want to. Jessica O'Sullivan, editor of wedding website One Fab Day shares her advice

New initiatives aiming to make social work more accessible and diverse have been launched by Minister for Further and Higher Education Patrick O'Donovan. A shortage of social workers nationally remains a significant challenge to the sector but TUSLA has welcomed the move today. The minister joined Cormac to outline the new initiatives.

Drivetime's Barry Lenihan is in Co Cavan to hear from locals ahead the Local and European elections.

Judges at the International Court of Justice have ordered Israel to immediately halt its military assault on Rafah. Jonathan Turner, Chief Executive of UK Lawyers for Israel & Fionnuala Ni Aolain, Professor of Law and Former UN Special Rapporteur on the protection of human rights discuss.

Education Minister Norma Foley earlier in the programme and she said a total ban on smartphone sales to primary school pupils could be considered if a voluntary agreement does not work. For reaction to the Minister, Family psychotherapist Richard Hogan who has been dealing with the fallout of technology and our children since 2015.

Yesterday HSE’s Drugs.ie launched a survey to find out more about drug use trends in Ireland. It’s also part of a wider European Web Survey on Drug trends across Europe. HSE’s Emerging Drug Trends Manager Nicki Killeen tells us more.

Education Minister Norma Foley has said a total ban on sales of smartphones to primary school pupils could be considered if a voluntary agreement does not work. It comes as mobile phone networks confirmed they would back the Government’s guidelines. To discuss Minister for Education Norma Foley.

The White House has said that President Joe Biden opposes "unilateral recognition" of a Palestinian state, after the decision yesterday by Ireland, along with Norway and Spain, to do so officially. To give the view of Irish- Americans by Brian O'Dwyer, who is Vice President of Irish American Democrats and is in New York.

Ireland, Norway and Spain have formally recognised the state of Palestine. Taoiseach Simon Harris said it had been the long-standing position of Ireland that "a two-state solution is the way to bring peace." We hear from Dr. Einat Wilf, a member of the Israeli Parliament from 2010 to 2013 and Minister for EU Affairs Jennifer Carroll-McNeill.

For our first panel Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Andrews, Sinn Fein Senator Lynn Boylan, Social Democrats candidate Sinead Gibney, Independent Umar Al Qadri and Independent Ireland candidate Niall Boylan. They discuss the issues at stake in Europe and how they affect you in the Dublin area.

For our second panel Fine Gael Senator Regina Doherty, Green Party MEP Ciaran Cuffe, Labour TD Aodhan O’Riordan, People before Profit TD Brid Smith and Independents 4 Change MEP Clare Daly. They discuss the issues at stake in Europe and how they affect you in the Dublin area.

Israel urges “nations of the civilised world” to refuse to implement any international criminal court arrest warrants issued against its leaders. Meanwhile food deliveries through Rafah’s crossing with Egypt has been suspended. For the latest on the humanitarian situation in Gaza Ricardo Pires, Communications manager with UNICEF.

A new report suggests that higher levels of maths anxiety in primary school might be discouraging female students here from pursuing STEM subjects. These findings come from the Arithmós Project, which aims to change how children learn maths. Tp discuss this is Dr Flavia H. Santos from the UCD School of Psychology

Why do we get sick on day one of our holiday?They've got a name for it in Belgium- leisure sickness syndrome! Research conducted there has found one in four Belgians called in sick while on holiday. We discuss leisure sickness syndrome now with Dr Nicola Herron, Derry based GP.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris has said that the government will publish the full Housing Commission report this week. The report says the government's housing policy is plagued by "ineffective decision making" and "reactive policy making where risk aversion dominates." Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien joins Cormac.

The new sea survival pool has opened in Greencastle, Donegal. Sea Survival is a key part of basic training that prepares fishers in the event of an accident at sea. The new training pool aims to re-create a realistic experience, with simulated wind, rain and waves. Our reporter Una Kelly went along and took part in the drills.

For the next three weeks Drivetime reporters will be travelling the country asking what the issues are in your city or county council area- as we get ready to vote in the local elections. For the first report John Cooke has been looking into the issue of refugee accommodation in County Clare.

The Irish Thalidomide Association (ITA) has called on the Government to re-engage in talks about a State apology and a compensation package for survivors to include provisions for medical expenses. Finola Cassidy is spokesperson for the Irish Thalidomide Association was in studio.

Its been reported that disposable vapes are to be banned in Ireland by the end of 2024. Junior minister at the department of Environment, Climate and Communications Ossian Smyth labelled disposable vapes a health emergency, saying they are an epidemic among teenagers and also causing environmental disaster, he joins Cormac in studio.

The International Criminal Court's prosecutor has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his defence chief, as well as three Hamas leaders over alleged war crimes. For some reaction to this, Jonathan Turner, Chief Executive of UK Lawyers for Israel

The Minister for Integration Roderic O'Gorman has said that additional capacity will be available this week to accommodate asylum seekers. It comes as more than 100 tents are now pitched on the Grand Canal in Dublin to discuss this the Head of the UNHCR Irish office, Enda O'Neill.

World No1 golfer Scottie Scheffler has been charged with assaulting a police officer after trying to navigate a traffic cordon outside Valhalla Golf Club early this morning. For the latest from Valhalla by RTE sports Greg Allen

PSNI Jon Boutcher has ruled out the prospect of any future prosecutions relating to the 1974 Dublin Monaghan bombings. Earlier, the President Michael D Higgins told a memorial event to mark the 50th anniversary, how it was unacceptable that nobody has been held accountable for the massacre. Reporter Barry Lenihan was at the event, on Talbot Street.

Earlier this week, we spoke to the Neurological Alliance of Ireland who said several specialist nursing posts were not being filled because of the HSE recruitment embargo. Meanwhile, thousands of children are waiting months for special needs assessments and there are now huge waiting lists, Minister for Disability Anne Rabbitte.

New regulations allowing the use of electric scooters in public place will come into effect on Monday after being signed by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan. A public information campaign on e-scooters will roll out from next Monday. For more on this, Director of Partnerships and External Affairs, with the Road Safety Authority Sarah O'Connor

The Taoiseach said today that the agriculture sector was making ‘relative progress’ compared to others in terms of cutting emissions. He was speaking at an event to mark the publication of a report from Fine Gael’s National Agricultural, Food Rural Development Forum. To discuss this Martin Heydon, Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture

The Israeli military has depicted Rafah as the last Hamas stronghold. According to the United Nations, around 600,000 Palestinians have been driven out of the city since the beginning of last week. To discuss the latest from Gaza Sam Rose, director of planning with UNRWA.

With record rents here in Ireland and more and more adult children being forced to live at home, is there ever a good time to charge children rent? Journalist Claire Ronan tells us more.

Climate changing bringing us heavier summer rain the Environmental Protection Agency the report shows the overall quality of bathing water in Ireland is high but there are still problems with discharges from wastewater and sewage. For more on this, journalist with The Journal.ie Lauren Boland and the Director of Coastwatch &Swan Karin Dubsky.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris has said the Thornton Hall site in north Dublin would be a "logical" location to provide large-scale tented accommodation for those seeking international protection. To discuss this Aubrey McCarthy, the founder of Tiglin.

A town in North Cork is holding a gathering of solidarity this evening to remember road victims killed on the N20 through the years - with renewed calls for a long-promised bypass. Reporter John Cooke was live from Charleville Town Centre who are with locals frustrated at the pace of much needed road safety.

The Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico has been shot. The shooting took place as he was meeting a small group of supporters after a government meeting in Handlova, Slovakia. Ian Willoughby is an Irish journalist with Radio Prague International.

A survey on abuse encountered by TDs and Senators has found that 94% of respondents experienced some form of threat, harassment, abuse or violence during the course of their work. Elizabeth Farries is Director of the UCD Centre for Digital Policy and was a co-author of the survey outlines the findings.

Children aged under 16 will be banned from using electric scooters in public spaces from next Monday under regulations signed into law by Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan. Paul McAuliffe Fianna Fail TD & John Fullham, Public Engagement Manager Irish Wheelchair Association discuss and debate the new legislation.

Amsterdam is the latest tourism destination introducing measures in a bid to lower visitor numbers . In Italy, Venice recently introduced a visitor fee, while in Spain there have been a number of anti-tourist protests in Ibiza and the Canary Islands. Pól Ó Conghaile, Travel Editor with the Irish Independent discusses.

A new study dubbed 'Game of Stones', has found financial incentives may help men living with obesity to lose weight and could be a future alternative to traditional weight-management programmes. Dr Margaret Steele - a postdoctoral researcher in University College Cork's School of Public Health gives her view.

Changes to the way Dublin's 'Portal' installation operates are in effect after Dublin City Council said there had been some inappropriate behaviour in front of the live video link between Dublin and New York. The portal is located between O'Connell St. & North Earl St.in the city centre our reporter Una Kelly is there the thoughts from some people.

Almost 450,000 people have fled Rafah in the last week, the United Nations says, as the humanitarian situation worsens daily. Meanwhile, new Israeli operations in northern Gaza have displaced another 100,000 people. Nebal Farsakh of the Palestine Red Crescent Society talks about the latest situation in Rafah.

Pilates through Irish, trips to the Aran Islands and even X-Factor as Gaeilge! Just some of the activities run by school committees that were presented with a Gaelbhratach or Irish Flag, at a ceremony in Limerick today. John Cooke Reports.

The Government has estimated that 27,000 Ukrainian refugees who benefit from temporary protection will receive reduced payments within three months following a Cabinet decision. For more on this, Fine Gael Senator John McGahon and CEO of the Irish Refugee Council Nick Henderson.

Parliament in Georgia has voted through a divisive "foreign agent" law that has sparked weeks of mass street protests. Petre Tsiskarishvili, the former Georgian Minister for Agriculture and the political secretary of U.N.M. - The main opposition party in Georgia speaks to Cormac.

The Cabinet is set to approve a new enterprise support package tomorrow to help struggling retail and hospitality businesses. To discuss the new package I'm joined by Emer Higgins, Fine Gael TD for Dublin Mid West and Minister of State for Business, Employment and Retail and by Labour Senator Marie Sherlock.

Time Magazine has just published its Health 100 list, which selected the top 100 individuals who are the most influential in the world of health right now and a behavioral scientist based in Dublin has made it into the final line-up. Dr. Dale Whelehan is CEO of 4 Day Week Global.

The UK goverment's Rwanda deportation policy should not apply in Northern Ireland because it undermines human rights protections guaranteed in the North, a court has ruled today. For reaction Colin Murray, Professor of Law & Democracy at the University of Newcastle and Stephen Farry, Alliance MP for North Down.

Novel research into Parkinson's Disease and how it can be diagnosed by scent will be presented on Wednesday evening in Maynooth University. Professor Perdita Barran who is is Chair of Mass Spectrometry in the Department of Chemistry at The University of Manchester, will explain the fascinating story of her research.

Proposed legislation to increase the legal age for buying cigarettes and other tobacco products from 18 to 21 has been welcomed today. For more on this Director General of the Tobacco Free Research Institute Ireland, Professor Luke Clancy and Director of Forest [Freedom Organisation for the Right to Enjoy Smoking Tobacco] Simon Clark.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris has said he believes the GAA needs to revisit the decision to put certain championship games behind a paywall, saying the organisation have gotten this wrong on the streaming service GAA GO. To discuss this Fine Gael Senator Tim Lombard and Dr Declan Jordan, Senior Lecturer in the Centre for Sports, Economics & Law in UCC

The housing market in this country is currently restraining the performance of Ireland's competitiveness, the National Competitiveness and Productivity Council has warned today. For some reaction to this Hubert Fitzpatrick, Director General of the Construction Industry Federation.

With temperatures hitting up to 23 degrees in some parts - so get the shorts out - factor on the sunscreen - and get ready for a great weekend. Drivetime's John Cooke is one of many sun lovers getting in the mood for summer today with a trip to the sea in Lahinch.

The Land Development Agency the State’s affordable housing delivery body - today launched 57 homes in Hollystown Dublin 15. The scheme is jointly run by the LDA and Fingal County Council for more on this John Coleman, Chief Executive of the LDA.

As people living in Gaza await a major military assault on the southern city of Rafah by the Israeli defense forces, aid agencies are warning that a ground assault would cause a humanitarian disaster in the region. We hear from Israel by one of Benjamin Netanyahu's predecessor's Ehud Olmert.

Adult film star Stormy Daniels is back on the stand in Donald Trumps New York hush money trial again today. Earlier in the week she told the jury she hated the former president and revealed details of their "brief" encounter in a hotel room. US based journalist Harriet Alexander has the latest.

Next month will mark 75 years since the publication of George Orwell's novel '1984' and to mark the occasion one Scottish sculptor is collecting one thousand nine hundred and eighty four copies of the book to be part of an exhibition which will be an interactive, “living” sculpture.

It's been reported today that Ireland and Spain were prepared to recognise Palestinian statehood as early as 21 May. Rashid Khalidi is the founding co-director of the Center for Palestine Studies in Columbia University...and author of books including "The Hundred Years’ War on Palestine..."

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has asked HIQA to carry out a review into urgent and emergency care capacity in the midwest region. Minister of State and Fianna Fail TD for Limerick Niall Collins , David Cullinane, Sinn Fein Spokesperson on Health & Marie McMahon, Mid West Hospital Campaign Group give their reactions .

Figures out today show that nationality has overtaken sexual orientation as a factor in hate based crimes in Ireland. The crime has increased over the past 2years & the Coalition Against Hate Crime group is calling on the Government to ensure the Hate Crime Bill is passed by the Oireachtas. Adam Long, Board Director at the National LGBT Federation.

A survey of the union's members published at its annual conference has found that 92% believe patient safety is at risk. Our reporter Una Kelly is at the conference in Croke Park and has been speaking to nurses.

At today's Oireachtas Transport Committee the Chief Executive of Dublin Bus warned that the private car is the "biggest barrier to faster and more reliable bus services". To discuss this Brian Caulfield, Professor in Transportation at Trinity College Dublin.

From the same breakfast and commute to work everyday, to our evening slump on the sofa in front of the telly – our daily routines may be driving us towards midlife boredom and maybe even crisis. so how do we go about challenging the comfort of our everyday routines? The Midlife Coach Alana Kirk tells us more.

To discuss the Dublin Taskforce and the ongoing situation around Mount Street I'm joined by Lord Mayor of Dublin Daithi de Roiste of Fianna Fail and by Social Democrats TD for Dublin Central, Gary Gannon.

There are now over 80 tents pitched along the Grand Canal in Dublin this afternoon. The number has been rising since tents were removed from around the International Protection Office on Mount Street last week. To discuss this Aubrey McCarthy founder and chairman of Tiglin and Louisa Santoro the chief executive of Mendicity.

It's been reported this afternoon that the Israeli defense forces have taken control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt. For the latest from Gaza Louise Wateridge, spokesperson for UNRWA who is based in Rafah.

The June 7th elections will also include voting for the role of new Directly Elected Mayor in Limerick, where a series of events this week aims to raise voter awareness among students, the business sector and minority groups like the Traveller Community. John Cooke attended today's opening event in Kilmallock.

The Media Minister Catherine Martin has published three reports this afternoon which involved a forensic examination of RTÉ. For some reaction to the reports Social Democrats TD and Leas-Chathaoirleach of the Public Accounts Committee Catherine Murphy and Irish secretary of the National Union of Journalists Seamus Dooley.

Sinn Fein has warned that sports clubs and local charities could lose thousands of euro ..in vital fundraising, if the government fails to address concerns in the new Gambling Bill. Minister James Browne and by Sinn Fein spokesperson on Finance, Pearse Doherty debate.

Joined by Ms Justice Marie Baker, Chair of the Electoral Commission

Joined by London based Irish human rights lawyer & Defendant of Toomaj Salehi, Caoilfhionn Gallagher

With James Elder, Spokesperson for UNICEF, and Gareth Browne, Journalist with The Economist based in the Middle East

Dr Paul Ryan, Cork based GP and Antimicrobial Resistance and Infection Control (AMRIC) team member

Leinster take on Northampton tomorrow at a sold out Croke Park in the semi-final of the Investec Champions Cup. To discuss this former international rugby referee Nigel Owens and Marcus O Buachalla, Communications manager with Leinster Rugby.

Irish-Palestinian man Zak Han-ia has been trapped in Gaza. He has finally left Rafah and crossed into Egypt and will return to Ireland tomorrow. Earlier, Zak spoke to the News at One where he described some of the trauma in Gaza. His wife Batoul Hania and their four sons escaped Gaza last November and she spoke to Cormac.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has said that people's families and homes "should be out of bounds" after protesters held a demonstration outside his house yesterday evening. Fine Gael Senator Jerry Buttimer and by Retired Garda Detective Inspector and author of the book 'Murder at Lordship' Pat Marry discuss.

With Met Éireann forecasting plenty of sunshine this bank holiday weekend the HSE is reminding people to be 'SunSmart' and to protect your skin. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland to talk about this Selene Daly - Registered Advanced Nurse Practioner.

The BBC in Northern Ireland has begun a legal process to establish whether a senior journalist was subjected to alleged police surveillance. Trevor Birney journalist and filmmaker discusses the investigation.

The MidWest's main hospital is in the spotlight again today after HIQA inspectors found the risk of harm to patients is not being fully managed at University Hospital Limerick. John Cooke speaks to patients and campaigners in the MidWest .

An investigation of social media data has claimed that most of the users responsible for Twitter posts on recent anti migrant protests in Ireland were American based, and posts were also amplified by the support of people like Alex Jones, an American media personality and conspiracy theorist

Ancient symbols on a 2,700-year-old temple in Iraq which have baffled experts for over a century have been solved by a Trinity College academic. To tell us more Dr Martin Worthington specializes in the archaeological study of Assyria and ancient Mesopotamia and he is the Indiana Jones of Trinity College Dublin.

When feeling rundown and tired people tend to focus on getting a good 8-hours sleep as a kind of 'cure all'. But do our busy lives mean we overlook the recuperation benefits of just resting? To tell us more Anne Marie Boyhan, sleep expert at the Sleep Care Company.

Hundreds of police wearing helmets moved into a central plaza of the University of California at Los Angeles this morning in a move to disperse a pro-Palestinian protest camp. Will Carless who is a reporter with USA Today was at the scene.

The cost of rent for new tenancies are increasing twice as fast in areas outside of Dublin. To discuss this further, I'm joined by Pat Davitt, CEO of the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Values and by Richard Boyd Barrett of People Before Profit.

Research from scientists at UCD, UCC and University of Galway shows having a heart attack in an urban area increases your chances of survival by 40 per cent compared to it happening in a rural setting. Professor Andrew Murphy - a GP and Professor of General Practice at the University of Galway outlines the research.

We're getting close to exam season and desperate parents - who think their children aren't studying - may be tempted to offer a financial reward for certain grades. But is this a good idea? Or does it actually teach the wrong lesson?We're joined now by Joanna Fortune, psychotherapist and parenting expert.

The EU commission has announced the planned withdrawal of permission for eight types of smoky flavourings.. which would have been added to ham, rashers and crisps. Jack Power, The Irish Times Europe Correspondent has the story.

Many of us will have old recipes handed down from our parents or our grandparents that are our go to resource for the best comfort food but one woman has collected more than 3,000 old Irish recipes, Róisín Hynes is the founder of www.oldirishrecipes.com

Drivetime's Una Kelly reports as People who had been living in tents on Mount Street in Dublin city are moved to Citywest and to Crooksling tented accommodation

Joined by Prof Aiden McCormick, Clinical Lead for the HSE National Hepatitis C Treatment Programme

With Movies Editor at Entertainment.ie Brian Lloyd

With Croke Park Pitch Manager, and Northampton Saints fan, Stuart Wilson

With UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights Defenders, Mary Lawlor

Report from Irish-Palestinian, Zak Hania

Fine Gael TD Alan Farrell & Sinn Féin TD Spokesperson on Justice Pa Daly

With Reporter Una Kelly

With CHI Consultant Plastic Surgeon Catherine de Blacam

With Spokesperson for the Israeli Government, Avi Hyman

Joined by Chair of Evolutionary Genetics in Trinity College Dublin, Professor Aoife McLysaght

With London Based reporter Vincent McAviney

Joined by General Secretary of the INMO Phil ní Sheaghdha

Joined by Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward and the SDLP Leader of the Opposition in Stormont, Matthew O'Toole

Reporter John Cooke

Joined by Doras Luimni's John Lannon and Refugee and Migrant Rights Programme Director, Amnesty International UK, Steve Valdez-Symonds

With Grainne Ni Aodha, Dublin-based News Reporter with the Press Association, Lucy Fisher Whitehall, Editor at the Financial Times and David Leonard, Barrister with expertise in Immigration & Asylum Matters

With Political Editor of The Scotsman, Alistair Grant

With Manager of the Bord Gais Energy Theatre, Steve Falloon

Joined by UNICEF Communications Manager Ricardo Pires

With Dr Ciara Greene is Associate Professor at the School of Psychology at UCD

We were joined by Journalist with France 24, Sharon Gaffney

Production Assistant with Ros na Rún, Kevin Hussey

Kylie Minogue, Kneecap and The Wolfe Tones are among the acts who will perform at the Electric Picnic music festival this August in Stradbally, Co Laois. It's the 20 anniversary of the event and the capacity has been increased to 75,000. Alan Corr, multi media journalist with RTE News gives his reaction to todays line up reveal.

The latest data just published by the Department of Housing, shows that during the last week of March there were 13,866 people in emergency accommodation. Executive Director of the Simon Communities of Ireland, Wayne Stanley, CEO of Alone, Sean Moynihan and CEO of Nasc, the Migrant and Refugee Rights Centre, Fiona Hurley give there reaction.

The European Hospital in Southern Gaza is the last major fully functioning hospital in the territory , Dr Juni Sultan, an NHS Consultant Vascular Surgeon has just retuned form operating there and details his experince.

THE U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk said he was "horrified" by the destruction of the Nasser and Al Shifa medical facilities in Gaza and reports of mass graves containing hundreds of bodies there. Ravina Shamdasani, the spokesperson for the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights gives her reaction.

In an age of climate action and awareness one way to help the environment is by using less water. And one way to use less water is to take fewer showers, but who among us is brave enough to admit they don't shower daily? To tell us more, Donnachadh McCarthy - Director of the Climate Media Coalition.

A verdict of death by medical misadventure has been returned at the inquest into the death of Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick in December 2022. John Cooke joins us from the Coroners Court in Kilmallock and Aoife Johnston's family have been giving their reaction?

The cost of doing business is top of the agenda for many retailers across the country many of whom want more supports. With the deadline to apply for the Increased Cost of Business Grant approaching there have been calls for an extension to allow more people to apply. For more on this Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, Peter Burke

As we have heard, a verdict of death by medical misadventure has been returned at the inquest into the death of Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick in December 2022. For reaction on the ruling Marie McMahon, Mid West Hospital Campaign Group, David Cullinane Sinn Fein spokesperson on health and Cathal Crowe, Fianna Fail TD for Clare.

Ireland's young LGBTQI+ population is experiencing significant mental health challenges according to new research published today. The report was conducted by a team of researchers in Trinity College Dublin in association with Belong To. To discuss Agnes Higgins, Professor In Mental Health in Trinity and by Monine Griffith CEO of Belong To.

President Michael D Higgins says he will be completely recovered from a mild stroke within two to three weeks. To tell us about the different types of stroke and how to recognise one, Professor Ronán Collins, who is the National Clinical Lead for Stroke.

Speaking at a Housing For All update this morning, Taoiseach Simon Harris said he believes the 250,000 new homes by 2030 figure is the "ballpark figure" he expects. To discuss this now, Cian O'Callaghan TD, the Social Democrats' Housing Spokesperson; & Senator Mary Fitzpatrick, Fianna Fail's Housing Spokesperson.

While we can see the physical toll of the Israel/Hamas war with the deaths, injuries & threat of famine, what is the mental health impact for Palestinians? Psychiatrist Dr Samah Jabr the chair of the Palestinian ministry of health’s mental health unit. She has a staff of only 34 psychiatrists to deal with the mental health needs of 5million people.

The Tánaiste Mícheál Martin was in Jordan today as he continued his latest visit to the Middle East in a bid to secure agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and recognition for a Palestinian State. Cormac spoke to The Tánaiste about his visit.

The inquest into the death of 16 yr old Aoife Johnston has heard of on-call consultants refusing to attend Limerick’s University Hospital on the night she died and of disagreement among managers as to whether they should always be on site. John Cooke was in the courthouse in Kilmallock.

The study which was undertaken by a team of academic researchers, based at Limerick's Mary Immaculate College also suggests there are currently too many Catholic schools in Ireland. To tell us more the study's principle-investigator Dr Dan O'Connell Assistant Professor of Religious Education at Mary Immaculate College

The Mona Lisa painting may be moved to an underground chamber in a bid by the Louvre museum to improve the “world’s most disappointing” viewing experience for its star attraction. For more on this Travel Editor with the Irish Independent, Pól Ó Conghaile

A generation war may be emerging in the form of texting with Gen Zeders lambasting anyone over 30 for using full-stops in their messages. Apparently it's too formal and too ominous. Jane Cowan - Lifestyle Columnist with the Irish Examiner Jane Cowan on the possible full stop to the full stop.

133 Israeli hostages are still being held by Hamas and other islamist groups in Gaza. Families of the hostages are pressing the Israeli government to do more to reach a dealwarning that time is running out for those still in captivity. Aviram Meir uncle of one of the hostages, Olmog Meir

Taoiseach Simon Harris has apologised on behalf of the state to the families of the victims who were killed in the Stardust fire tragedy. After a 43 year campaign for justice, last week an inquest found the 48 victims had been unlawfully killed. Reporter Una Kelly was in the Dail as families gathered to hear the public apology.

An announcement that all uniform gardaí will do 30 minutes of road policing on duty has been described as a public relations exercise by the Garda Representative Association. We hear from Jack Chambers, Minister of State with Responsibility for Road Safety.

Members of the European Parliament today voted in favour of the Right to Repair Directive, aimed at improving consumer access to repair services in order to reduce waste. The law would require manufacturers to repair goods out of warranty, either for free or a “reasonable price.” Adrian Weckler technology editor at The Irish Independent.

The inquest into the death of Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick has heard further medical witnesses describe the overcrowding at the Emergency Department there as a chaotic war zone- but also that staff are accustomed to it being that busy. John Cooke reports.

A survey carried out by the Disabled Drivers Association suggests that 88% of respondents fear physical or verbal abuse if they approach someone for parking illegally in an accessible parking bay. Richard Ryder, marketing and communications manager at the Disabled Drivers Association tells us more.

New documentary sheds light on the unanswered questions of the family of Sean Brown as a date for enactment of Troubles Legacy Act approaches. Trevor Birney Emmy-nominated producer and director of the documentary, Murder of a GAA Chairman on RTÉ One and RTÉ Player, Monday, April 22nd at 9:35pm.

Tomorrow the Taoiseach is expected to deliver an apology in the Dáil to the families of the victims of the Stardust fire. Relatives and survivors have been meeting government representatives to discuss the wording of the apology. Our reporter Una Kelly.

An inquest into the death of a 16 year old schoolgirl Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick has heard her parents “begged and roared for help” as she waited 12 hours to be seen by a doctor in an overcrowded Emergency Department with suspected sepsis. Reporter John Cooke is at the Coroners Court in Kilmallock.

Ireland's first marine national park has been announced today. Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí will cover more than 70,000 acres on land and at sea - has been acquired by the State for a price of just over €12 million. We hear from Minister Kieran O'Donnell and Independent TD Michael Healy Rae.

Dart services will not operate between Grand Canal Dock and Bray across the May bank holiday weekend from Saturday, May 4 to Monday, May 6. That's despite the fact that a crowd of over 80,000 are expected for the match. Barry Kenny of Ianrod Eireann.

Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí incorporates the seas off the Dingle peninsula, as well as the Conor Pass, land at Inch beach, and the Owenmore river. Jack O'Donovan Trá, a marine biologist and communications officer for the Fair Seas Campaign which has been pressing for marine protection areas around our coasts.

Gavin Cooney, Sports writer with the 42.ie reports on how the FAI Director of Football Marc Canham has apologised to Republic of Ireland supporters for the delay in appointing a new manager. The Director revealed that he does not now expect an appointment until September.

Tommy Meskill, RTE's political staff, reports on the Green Party Convention.

Cormac chats to Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó Fearghaíl about website Achtanna.ie, the decorum in the Daiíl and politician's safety.

Amanda Ferguson reports on how the Northern Ireland Prosecution Service has said fifteen former British soldiers will not be prosecuted in relation to allegations of perjury over evidence given at the Bloody Sunday Inquiry.

Rodrigo da Costa, Executive Director of EUSPA discusses how a ground-breaking European-wide service will broadcast emergency alert messages directly to EU populations.

Jason Fleming, IFA Farm Forestry Chair discusses how the IFA is calling for the temporary suspension of the importation of timber from Scotland -- amid fears that a spruce bark beetle could be introduced here and cause widespread devastation.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has said she has spoken to the Garda Commissioner about what she described as a 'disgusting' situation where a group of protestors wearing masks gathered outside Minister Roderick O'Gorman's home last evening. Senator Pauline O'Rielly, Chair of the Green Party and Martin Kenny, Sinn Fein TD for Sligo/Leitrim, react.

Cormac speaks to Fawaz Gerges, Professor of International Relations at the London School of Economics about Israel's response to Iran's attack.

Cormac speaks to Damien McCarthy, CEO of HR Buddy, on how best to organise office events that suit everyone.

Cormac spoke to Palestinian FA Women’s team member Bisan Abu Ita and Mira Natou ahead May's friendly.

It’s a bus tour bringing children’s authors and illustrators to schools, libraries and bookshops all the way from Malin Head in Donegal to Mizen Head in Cork. The "Whole Wild World Tour" is the brainchild of Ireland’s Laureate na nOg who’s on a creative journey to meet young readers along the West Coast Drivetime’s John Cooke jumps on board.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris speaking in Brussels said it was his understanding that the Gardai would consider the outcome of the Stardust inquest today. He asked the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and the Attorney General to consider the recommendations of the inquest and the verdict. Minister Helen McEntee joined Cormac in studio.

After 43 years an inquest jury has found that all 48 of the young people who died at the Stardust nightclub were unlawfully killed. For reaction Finian McGrath, a former Minister of State for disability and Independent TD for Dublin Bay North, and by Tony McCullagh, co-author of They Never Came Home, the Stardust story.

The jury in the Stardust inquests has returned a verdict of unlawful killing in the cases of each of the 48 people who died in the fire 43 years ago. A press conference has taken place with the families of the victims in Dublin's garden of remembrance our reporter Una Kelly was there. We also hear some voices from 1981 as the tragedy unfolded.

We’re living in an age of uncertainty , the environmental crisis, the rise of extremism, the housing crisis and war is raging in many parts of the world and this year. Dr Paul D’Alton, Associate Professor of Psychology at UCD, is back with us for the final of his four part series to help us navigate this age of uncertainty.

Special European Council meeting is being held today & tomorrow in Brussels. The Iran/Israel conflict and the Gaza humanitarian crisis will dominate discussions as will the recent warnings by Ukranian President Zelensky that Ukraine will lose the war if more funding does not come through. We hear from Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill in Brussels.

Two mothers who lost their sons in road traffic accidents in the north are calling for progress on road safety upgrades and education programmes. It comes as road deaths in the north hit their highest level in eight years, with 71 people dying last year and 17 people dying so far this year. Reporter Una Kelly has been speaking to those mothers.

The Irish Home Builders Association’s house-building summit was held in Croke Park yesterday. Marian Finnegan, managing director of Sherry FitzGerald and Sinn Fein TD and Housing Spokesperson Eoin O'Broin.

Recent annual crime figures released by the Central Statistics Office show there was a increase in theft offences from shops last year. The retail industry says that there can also be assaults and abusive behavior towards retail staff To discuss this the bill's proposer Senator Malcolm Byrne and by CEO of Retail Excellence Ireland Jean McCabe.

The “Ennis 2040” Plan promises thousands of extra jobs, new houses and amenities - along with major retail and office developments – but some local residents and businesses are calling for a halt to what they describe as the destruction of their medieval history and Riverside Car parks. Drivetime's John Cooke reports.

There have been reports since yesterday that Rory McIlroy was on the verge of an $850million dollar move to LIV Golf which would mark an extraordinary u turn for the player! To tell us more RTE sports correspondent, Greg Allen.

Humanitarian organisations in Gaza have warned today that children have been the disproportionate victims of the six month Israel/Hamas war. UNICEF employees who have just returned from Gaza have highlighted the amount of wounded children they saw during their visit. For more on this Peter Power Executive Director of UNICEF Ireland.

Tech giants Meta, X, and Tik Tok are meeting with the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Children, Equality, Disability, Integration & Youth discussing Protection of Children in the use of Artificial Intelligence. Cyberpsychologist Mary Aiken tells us more.

Dublin Hotel prices are broadly in line with other international competitor destinations - that's one of the conclusions of a new report commissioned by Failte Ireland into Dublin Hotel pricing. To discuss Michael Magner, President of the Irish Hotels Federation.

The Cabinet has today approved plans to strengthen knife crime legislation. It has also introduced a number of changes to increase the use of Anti Social Behaviour orders or ASBOs. James Browne, Minister of State at the Department of Justice with responsibility for International Law, Law Reform and Youth Justice.

Health Minister Stephen Donnelly has said that the health service is seeking to make savings of nearly 430 million euros this year and to put in place a range of new productivity measures. We discuss with Professor Matthew Sadlier, chair of the IMO consultants committee.

As world leaders call on Israel to show restraint over Iran's weekend missile and drone attack, its war cabinet has met today to discuss their response. We hear from John Brennan, former director of the CIA.

Migrants who commit a serious crime, even those who have been granted asylum, should be deported according to a Fianna Fáil policy document. We discussed this with Fianna Fáil TD and Justice Spokesperson Jim O'Callaghan, and Dr Ciara Smyth from the University of Galway.

The Taoiseach Simon Harris has said that people of his “generation” are “more familiar” with Berlin and Paris than they are with Belfast or Derry in the North. We hear from Belfast based journalist Amanda Ferguson.

We discuss Rob Kearney's comments with Jessica O'Sullivan, Editor of One Fab Day.

Latest figures from Gaza show that over 76,000 people, mainly civilians, have been injured by Israel over the course of the war, while 33,000 people have been killed. We spoke to Dr Mohamed Shaalan, a surgeon based in Ireland who has just returned from the European hospital where he has been volunteering.

Iran has vowed to take revenge on Israel for killing its commanders, who were hit earlier this month during a strike on the Iranian embassy in Damascus. For reaction to this, Cormac was joined studio by Kazem Sharif Kazemi, Chargé d'affaires of the Iranian Embassy to Ireland

Disability rights activists have welcomed a decision by the Government to scrap a proposal to reform disability payments. Tom Clonan, Independent Senator, chatted to Cormac about this

A new project from TUS Athlone is giving individuals with dementia the chance to hit the dance floor to help improve cognitive functions like attention and concentration. Dr Fiona Skelly, Lecturer in Physical Activity and Exercise Science at TUS Athlone joined Cormac

Sinn Fein TD Pa Daly and Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward joined Cormac to discuss the ongoing problems with road safety.

Campaigners have rounded on social media company Meta now that it has lowered the minimum age for WhatsApp users from 16 to 13 in the UK and EU. Professor Barry O'Sullivan from the School of Computer Science at University College Cork and Alex Cooney CEO and Co-Founder of Cyber Safe Kids joined Cormac

A combination of factors including ticket prices, a compressed season, and the weather are impacting GAA attendance numbers. Cahair O'Kane - sports reporter and columnist with the Irish News - chats to Cormac about the attendance numbers.

Taoiseach Simon Harris has been discussing the crisis in Gaza with EU leaders in the first of several meetings he is holding in Brussels today. For more on this now, Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora Sean Fleming.

The Government has today rejected criticism of Simon Harris by the Israeli foreign ministry over his first Dail speech as Taoiseach for not specifically mentioning the Israeli hostages in Gaza. From Tel Aviv, spokesperson for the Israeli Government, Raquela Karamson.

Around 15,000 people in Ireland have Parkinson's disease and it is the fastest-growing neurological condition. Currently it has no cure. Reporter Una Kelly have been speaking to some people with the condition.

Around 1500 teenagers in Mayo have been told they're on the frontline in the fight to improve road safety in Ireland following an alarming rise in fatal collisions. Transition Year Students from schools across the county took part in the latest AXA Roadsafe Roadshow in Castlebar today and Drivetime's John Cooke was there.

War is raging in many parts of the world, the environmental crisis, the rise of extremism, and this year will see the largest number of people voting across the globe. Dr Paul D’Alton, Associate Professor of Psychology at UCD, is back with us today in the third of a four part series to help us navigate this age of uncertainty.

With the sun making a break through today, people are being reminded by the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) and Healthy Ireland to protect your skin when outdoors from April to September, even on cloudy days. To talk us though it, Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health Medicine, at the HSE’s National Cancer Control Programme

New research out of the UK shows listening to music that gets you moving is the most common motivation strategy people use when exercising. Sports physiotherapist and movement specialist from Elevate Physio - Aisling Frawley tells us more.

The European Parliament has voted to adopt all texts aiming to reform asylum policies. The new Migration and Asylum Pact is a package of 10 laws drawn up after years of negotiations that aim to get European Union countries to act together on migration. To discuss this Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh and Sinn Féin TD Pádraig Mac Lochlainn.

Plans to rebuild a shop and petrol station on the site of the Creeslough Explosion in Donegal are being met with opposition by some of the bereaved families who've launched a petition calling for the site to become a memorial garden instead. John Cooke reports.

Cancer outcomes for patients in Ireland have stagnated and in some cases disimproved in recent years. The head of the Irish Cancer Society told the Joint Committee on Health that people in Ireland today are not being given the best possible chance of surviving cancer. Irish Cancer Society Chief Executive Averil Power talks to Sarah.

Addiction counsellors across the country have been reporting a dramatic increase in those seeking help for drug addiction causing devastation to many. Pauline McKeown chief executive of the Coolmine Treatment centre and Colm Burke appointed Minister of State with responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy.

Children have been let down by a lack of research and "remarkably weak" evidence on medical interventions in gender care, according to a UK review. To discuss this endocrinologist Professor Donal O'Shea, who treats transgender people at St Columcille’s Hospital in Loughlinstown and Dr Chris Noone, lecturer in psychology in University of Galway.

With the endless rain and cloudy skies you might forgive yourself for feeling a little down in the mouth. The truth is scientists just don't know, they say the weather's influence on our day-to-day mood is either nonexistent or very subtle. Behavioural Neuroscientist in the Dept for Psychology at Maynooth University Prof Andrew Coogan explains.

Simon Harris in his first speech as Toaiseach in the Dail - as the youngest ever Taoiseach - promised a "step change" in how we care for the elderly. Zaid Al Barghouthi, Vice President for Campaigns at the Union of Students in Ireland and Sean Moynihan, chief executive of ALONE.

Simon Harris has been appointed Taoiseach after being nominated and elected in the Dáil by 88 votes to 69 earlier today. We hear his speech from the Dail followed by People Before Profit TD for Dun Laoghaire Richard Boyd Barrett and Fine Gael TD for Dublin Bay South Richard Bruton.

The historic election of Simon Harris as the youngest ever Taoiseach. Hugh O'Connell, political editor of the Sunday Times followed by Louise O'Reilly of Sinn Fein spokesperson on Workers' Rights, Enterprise, Trade and Employment. and Niall Collins of Fianna Fail Minister of State, Department of Further & Higher Education.

At 37 years old, Simon Harris the Fine Gael leader is the youngest person to ever lead the country. But they say all politics is local, and maybe nowhere more so than in Ireland. Our reporter Una Kelly is in Simon Harris' home village of Greystones in Wicklow.

The European Court of Human Rights has ruled in favour of a group of elderly Swiss women who had argued that their government's inadequate efforts to combat climate change put them at risk of dying during heatwaves. For more on this, Freelance EU Correspondent, Jack Parrock.

Women earning more than €35,000 annually are most at risk of their babies having fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, or FASD. FASD is an umbrella term for conditions which can be caused by drinking alcohol while pregnant. Dr Mary O'Mahony is a consultant in public health medicine at the Health Service Executive with expertise in FASD tells us more.

It's 6 months since Hamas's attack on Israel precipitated a massive and ongoing assault on Gaza. A new report from Action Aid described almost 2 million people being forcibly displaced as part of the war and 33,000 deaths. For an assessment of the impact of the last six months of conflict and what is ahead, Israeli journalist Gideon Levy.

A US Genetics company is trying to recreate long extinct animals, including the wooly mammoth and the Dodo. We hear from genetics expert Aoife Mc Lysaght Prof of Evolutionary Genetics in Trinity College Dublin.

The Taoiseach-designate Simon Harris's pledge that the Government will build 250,000 houses over the next 5yrs is at odds with the Coalition’s current housing targets. Sinn Fein TD Housing Spokesperson Eoin O Broin & Green Party TD Steven Matthews.

This evening University College Dublin’s highest award, the Ulysses Medal will be presented to 'the Godfather' of Artificial Intelligence British-Canadian computer scientist and cognitive psychologist Professor Geoffrey Hinton. He joins Sarah and Cormac in studio today to speak about the threat of AI.

Sarah is joined by Jennifer Kilduff, Head of Marketing and PR at The AA to talk about the research and other poor driving habits than can lead to series consequences.

Sarah speaks with Michael O'Flaherty, The Council of Europe's new Commissioner for Human Rights. The new commissioner is the first Irishman to hold the post.

As the war in Gaza passes the six months mark what is the over all situation on the ground for medical professionals. Christopher Lockyear, Médecins Sans Frontières Secretary General joins Sarah to discuss.

A former artistic director of the Royal Shakespeare Company has raised concerns over the use of trigger warnings for plays, joining a growing list of theatre luminaries suggesting modern theatre audiences have 'gone soft'. Stephen Faloon - General Manager at The Bord Gais Energy Theatre gives his take to Sarah.

Yesterday we spoke about perceptions of anti-social behaviour in Dublin City centre and whether there are enough gardai on the streets to police it. Reporter Una Kelly has been asking business owners how they've been finding the situation in the city centre at the moment.

Blink and you’ll miss it, or rather, only some people will miss it. new research from Trinity College Dublin has shown that speed of visual perception ranges widely in humans. PhD Candidate in the School of Natural Sciences, Clinton Haarlem

The National Cyber Security Centre is developing a new strategy to improve the sector and it is seeking views from interested parties on what measures are needed. Ossian Smyth, is minister of state for communications, eGovernment, procurement and circular economy.

Hospitals and medical facilities which have become caught up in intense fighting in Gaza are at a crisis point. Doctor Nahreen Ahmd a pulmonary and critical care doctor and the medical director of the humanitarian aid group MedGlobal. She is recently returned from a two-week volunteer trip to Gaza, where she says these crises are growing rapidly.

Non-essential farm inspections by Department of Agriculture staff are to be paused for a number of weeks as farmers struggle with adverse weather conditions. Minister McConalogue also said he has asked banks to show forbearance with farmers where cashflow issues are emerging.

We’re living in an age of uncertainty - locally, globally and environmentally. Dr Paul D’Alton, Associate Professor of Psychology at UCD, is back with us again today in the second of a four part series to help us navigate the age of uncertainty.

Ehud Olmert, served as Israel’s prime minister between 2006 and 2009. He has called for the removal of Benjamin Netaynahu as Israeli Prime Minster- claiming that every minute he is prime minister he is a danger to Israel.

The US Office of Science and Technology Policy has directed NASA to establish “Coordinated Lunar Time”, or LTC for short, which will help guide humanity’s potentially permanent presence on the moon. Frances McCarthy is Head of Education Outreach at MTU's Blackrock Castle Observatory and she can explain all of this.

Fianna Fail MEP Barry Andrews has been hosting an event in the European Parliament today about the genocide case against Israel, we hear from him now.

A group of 13 humanitarian and human rights organizations have today called for international action to protect civilians in Rafah. Budour Hassan, Amnesty researcher on Gaza joined us from Jerusalem

Scottish singer Lulu has revealed her practice of ‘speech fasting’ where she stays completely silent until midday to preserve her vocal cords. This self-imposed silent treatment is gaining attention for its potential health benefits beyond vocal care. Prof Brendan Kelly of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin & author of 'Resilience' tells us more.

The model of policing in Ireland also needs updating according to the former General Secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, Antoninette Cunningham. To discuss this former assistant Garda Commissioner Pat Leahy, Fine Gael Senator Barry Ward and Independent TD Verona Murphy.

Young teachers are warning their profession is overwhelmed and "at breaking point", due to teacher shortages and cost of living pressures. They have been gathering at the INTO trade union congress in Derry over the past few days, our reporter Una Kelly was there.

The cost of providing asylum seekers with accomodation over the next twenty years has been put at 5 billion euros. Last week, Integration Minister Roderick O'Gorman committed to building accommodation consisting of 14,000 beds in State owned facilities by 2028. For reaction John Lannon, CEO of Doras.

The drop in EV sales comes as a new survey from AA Ireland found over 50 per cent of people will not opt for electric for their next car due to misinformation and lack of education. For more on this Geraldine Herbert Motoring Editor Sunday Independent & Brian Cooke - Director General of SIMI (Society of Irish Motor Industry)

A report by the Oireachtas finance committee, which has been examining the Access to Cash Bill, is recommending that legislation includes an obligation to make denominations of cash lower than €50 available. Fianna Fáil TD John McGuinness is chair of the Committee on Finance and Seamus Boland chief executive of Irish Rural Link.

Israeli troops have now left Al-Shifa, which is Gaza's largest hospital, after a two-week raid that left much of the complex in ruins and killed civilians and medical staff there. We hear from Dr Mads Gilbert is a Norweigan physician who is a long time volunteer with Palestinian healthcare- spending 17 years working in Al Shifa hospital.

The health and safety of both patients and doctors in Irish hospitals is being routinely put at risk because young doctors are forced to work unsafe and illegal working hours. That's acording to a survey of non-consultant hospital doctors, or NCHDs. Dr Rachel McNamara, chair of the NCHD committee of the IMO.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has admitted that its armed forces killed seven aid workers in an air strike in Gaza. He said they did so unintentionally. The seven were working for the US-based World Central Kitchen, which has been delivering food aid to Gaza. Tess Ingram, UNICEF communications specialist currently in Rafah.

For the first time, relatives of Israeli hostages called for Netanyahu to step down during demonstrations on Sunday.Middle East reporter Gareth Browne and Juliette Touma, Communications Director with UNRWA discuss the latest developments