The Tonight Show

On tonight's episode of The Tonight Show, we examined the government's response to overcrowding at Oberstown Child Detention Centre after two Dublin teenagers were released despite being denied bail. Minister for Justice Jim O'Callaghan announced the creation of extra spaces, citing the need to protect public safety.Joining the discussion were Fianna Fáil Senator Robbie Gallagher, Solas Project's Ashling Golden, children's law barrister Amy Deane, and court correspondent Tom Tuite.We also turned to Washington, where President Trump said he had yet to decide whether to deploy B-52 bombers to Iran. Our correspondent Toni Waterman explored the divisions within Trump's inner circle and MAGA supporters as the situation evolved.And finally, Belfast rapper Liam O'Hanna — known as Mo Chara of Kneecap — appeared in a London court facing a terrorism charge linked to alleged support for Hezbollah. He was granted unconditional bail. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On tonight's episode of The Tonight Show, we break down the government's push for emergency legislation to extend rent caps nationwide—potentially by Friday. While part of a broader rental reform plan, Housing Minister James Browne admits the changes could leave some renters, including students, without protection. We also examine the government's €148 million purchase of the CityWest Hotel, now set to become a permanent centre for international protection applicants. Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan defends the move as “value for money.” Plus, we turn to the escalating rhetoric from Donald Trump, who has threatened Iran's Supreme Leader while claiming control of the skies over Iran. Could this signal deeper U.S. involvement in the Middle East? Joining the discussion: Minister of State Neale Richmond, Sinn Féin's Pearse Doherty, and Irish Mirror political correspondent Louise Burne. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy A sharp decline in people taking out private health insurance is raising serious concerns, as rising premiums push coverage out of reach and add more strain to the public system.In Ballymena, unrest has intensified with arrests and injuries after protests over a sexual assault case turned violent and racially charged.Meanwhile, the Central Bank say they cannot refuse sale of Israeli war bonds.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran CuddihyCabinet has agreed on new rent measures aimed at boosting supply and protecting tenants. Rent caps will now apply nationwide, with stronger protections for existing tenants - but higher rent increases will be allowed in new-build apartments.Will the changes help tenants—or push prices up and drive landlords away?Meanwhile, Donald Trump is being accused of intentionally fuelling unrest in LA after sending in 700 marines and thousands of troops to deal with protests. One opponent called it “the deranged fantasy of a dictatorial president.”

Israel suspends aid into Gaza after more Palestinians are killed while queuing for food, amid claims Netanyahu's government is using starvation as a weapon of war and undermining the UN. As Trinity College moves to cut ties with Israeli organisations, pressure grows on the Irish government to act.A new EPA report also warns Ireland's infrastructure is unprepared for the growing threat of climate shocks, calling for urgent action.Guests include Leila Molana-Allen (PBS), Lazar Berman (The Times of Israel), Juliette Touma (UNRWA), Paul McAuliffe TD, Jennifer Whitmore TD, Fintan Drury, Eoghan McNeill and Prof John Sweeney. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we examine two major issues shaping Ireland's justice and migration policies.First, the case of 22-year-old Evan Fitzgerald, who died by self-inflicted gunshot wounds after opening fire at the Fairgreen Shopping Centre in Carlow. Fitzgerald was out on bail, despite Garda objections, for charges related to possession of guns, ammunition, and explosive materials. The Taoiseach says a review of bail laws is now underway, though significant changes may be constitutionally challenging.Then, we look at the government's decision to scrap plans for an international protection centre at the former Crown Paints Factory in Coolock. Minister of State for Migration Colm Brophy said the change reflects a shift towards State-acquired properties and IPAS centres. The local group ‘Coolock Says No' called it a “great victory.”We'll discuss the implications of these developments and what they mean for justice and housing policy in Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran CuddihyRTÉ executives say they weren't made aware of a €3.6 million write-down over a failed IT project until February.Appearing before an Oireachtas committee, the Director General also hit back at what he called "inaccurate" reporting around a leaked news promo — saying extras were used and the final cost will be under €100,000. Meanwhile, the Dáil rejected a Sinn Féin motion that sought to block the Central Bank from approving the sale of Israeli ‘war bonds'. It was defeated 87–75, though two independents who support the government — Barry Heneghan and Gillian Toole — voted in favour.Also, concerns are rising over access to U.S. college places after the Trump administration paused student visas and considers tougher social media screening.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran CuddihyAnother wave of resignations from the Children's Health Ireland board comes as pressure mounts over ongoing issues in children's hospitals.Meanwhile, the Housing Committee was told government targets will be missed for the next two years. And following a state apology to Shane O'Farrell's family, bail laws are now set to be reviewed.

This episode shines a spotlight on Ireland's deepening disability crisis.With over 15,000 children still waiting for an assessment of needs, and the number expected to rise to 25,000, 14-year-old disability campaigner Cara Darmody stages a powerful 50-hour protest outside Leinster House, demanding action.Joining the discussion are Lorraine Dempsey, Family Carer and Former CEO of Inclusion Ireland, Keira Keogh TD, Fine Gael member of the Committee on Disability Matters, and Paul Lawless TD, Aontú, who debate the deepening crisis, broken promises, legislative delays, and whether the latest response is too little, too late. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With air strikes ongoing and a blockade in Gaza now past ten weeks, we ask if Israel should be allowed to compete in this year's Eurovision.We examine the Government's approach to dangerous driving following a seven-year sentence for the man behind a fatal Monaghan crash. And with the dry spell set to continue, what impact will it have on Ireland's water supply?Guests:

The Irish pub is under threat—can industry plans save your local? We visit one struggling pub in Co. Louth.Also—calls for a total social media ban for under-16s—is it realistic or just another headline grab?Donald Trump's Gulf tour, a luxury jet, and claims of a “mile-high bribe”.Guests:

As the Eurovision Song Contest nears, RTÉ boss Kevin Bakhurst calls for a rethink on Israel's participation, citing the war in Gaza. We're joined by Fianna Fáil TD Malcolm Byrne, Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne and Irish Independent political correspondent Gabija Gataveckaite, alongside former Eurovision winner Charlie McGettigan.Also tonight – the government scrambles to find a new housing tsar after Brendan McDonagh steps away, and the Uisce Éireann funding row resurfaces. Ian Lawlor of Roundtower Capital weighs in.Plus – Cork and Waterford camogie teams make a stand on their right to wear shorts in Saturday's Munster Final. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Host Gavan Reilly is joined by John Moran, Limerick's first elected mayor, to reflect on his first year in office and his big housing plans.Then, political tensions rise over claims of phantom funding for Uisce Éireann — is Ireland's housing supply being held back by infrastructure limits?Plus, live to the Vatican as cardinals prepare to elect the next Pope.Guests:

In this episode of The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy:The first chapter of Trump's second term brought executive orders, falling approval ratings and economic turbulence. Yet the US President still holds firm control at home and abroad — and remains revered by his base. So what should Ireland and the world expect next?Guests:Katty Kay, BBC US Special Correspondent & Host of The Rest is Politics USMark Little, Journalist and Tech Entrepreneur Cormac Lucey, Economics Columnist, Sunday Times (Ireland)Hannah McCarthy, Middle East-based Journalist Cal Thomas, Syndicated ColumnistCaro Kinsella, Irish US-based Immigration Lawyer Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy:

In this episode of The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy:

As Pope Francis is laid to rest in a simple wooden casket — a modest affair, in keeping with a humility that defined his papacy — we ask: what legacy does he leave behind? Over 12 years, Francis challenged tradition, spoke out for the poor, and confronted global issues from climate change to migration. But will the next Pope continue his reformist path, or mark a return to traditional values?Joining us for this in-depth debate are Jesuit theologian Gerry O'Hanlon, theologian and lecturer Gina Menzies, commentator with Gript Media Laura Perrins, and Alison O'Connor, columnist with the Sunday Times.Plus: as teachers struggle to afford life in the capital, we examine growing calls for a #DublinAllowance — should educators be paid more to work in the city?#TheTonightShow Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of #TonightVMTV – House prices have surged to nearly 20% above their 2007 pre-crash peak, fuelling affordability fears.Meanwhile, the Government's climate plan is under fire for falling short of key targets — but who should pick up the "tab"? Plus, with plans to increase the minimum wage now paused, questions remain over whether low-paid workers will once again bear the brunt of global economic instability.Joining Kieran Cuddihy on the panel:Billy Kelleher MEP, Fianna FáilPaul Murphy TD, People Before Profit - SolidarityDaniel McConnell, Editor, Business Post Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of #TonightVMTV – The Government is set to shelve minimum wage plans and other worker benefits like extra paid sick leave, as it aims to shield the economy from a possible economic storm. We ask is there a divide emerging again in the treatment of private and public sector workers? We look at the cost of a United Ireland with a new survey showing a growing difference in living standards north and south of the border. Plus rise of the machines, we investigate the growing AI creep across your data and privacy and ask are the robots also coming for your job?Joining Kieran Cuddihy on the panel:Colm Brophy TD, Minister of StatePeadar Tóibin, TD, Leader AontúMick Clifford, Special Correspondent Irish ExaminerElaine Burke, For Tech's Sake Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of #TonightVMTV – As the global trade war heats up, we speak to Tánaiste Simon Harris following his tense meeting with Donald Trump's Commerce Secretary in Washington. With the EU hitting back with counter-tariffs, what's at stake for Irish jobs, wages, and pensions as recession fears grow?We get live reaction from Brussels and assess Trump's turbulent first 80 days in office.Plus, Kerry councillors push back against new government restrictions on Airbnb lettings in small rural towns – is it a necessary clampdown or an overreach? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of #TonightVMTV we dive into the escalating international trade war as the EU strikes back with counter-tariffs — how will this impact Irish exporters? We speak to a major whiskey producer and discuss the political and economic fallout with our expert panel.As the government reluctantly mentions the "R-word" for the first time, is Ireland ready for a potential recession, and what's the emergency plan to handle an economic downturn?We also explore the rising cost of coffee and ask: how much are you willing to pay for your daily caffeine fix? Plus, should the big TV streaming platforms pay the 'Netflix Levy' to support the production of more home-grown content?Join Timmy Dooley TD, Sinead Gibney TD, John Lee, Liz Carolan, Mary Sadlier, Craig Brady, and Larry Bass for an in-depth discussion. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Trump's tariff war has begun.President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs targeting the world's economies, and the fallout is set to impact trade relations. But, what will it mean for Ireland?Gavan Reilly, Political Correspondent, will have live updates and analysis from Leinster House.Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss is:Seamus Coffey, Chair of the Irish Fiscal Advisory CouncilDan O'Brien, Chief Economist, Institute of International and European Affairs Martina Lawless, Research Professor, ERSIMatt A. Mayer, US Conservative Commentator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show:Ireland braces for economic shock as the Trump administration prepares to impose sweeping tariffs.Plus, we discuss the historic confidence motion in the Ceann Comhairle and whether the matter will finally be put to bed.Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss is: Barry Cowen MEP, Fianna FáilNiall Stanage - White House Columnist, The HillAlan Dillon TD, Minister of State, Department of EnterpriseGeorge Lawlor TD, Labour PartyProf Jim Stewart, Adjunct Professor in Finance, Trinity Business SchoolLouise Burne, Political Correspondent, Irish Mirror Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Opposition TDs move against the Ceann Comhairle, drafting a motion declaring she no longer has the confidence of all Dáil members. But Verona Murphy insists she's staying, rejecting claims of collusion as "entirely false." With the government backing her, what happens next? Plus, leaked US messages branding European allies as ‘free-loaders' spark alarm among western leaders.Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss are Minister of State Micheál Healy-Rae, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane, Political Correspondent with the Irish Independent Gabija Gataveckaite, and Daniel McConnell, Editor of the Business Post. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On #TonightVMTV with Kieran Cuddihy, we break down the dramatic scenes in the Dáil as the government forces through changes to speaking rights for regional independents — is the Ceann Comhairle's position now in jeopardy?Plus, should Metrolink be scrapped in favour of faster, cheaper transport solutions?And U.S. intelligence chiefs respond to claims that classified war information was leaked via a messaging app.Joining Kieran are James Geoghan TD, Richard Boyd Barrett TD, Kevin Doyle, and Dr Patrick Bury. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Amazon Ireland arrives offering consumers faster delivers and no import duties. But what will the move mean for Irish retailers and for main streets across the country? Plus, the Central Bank predicts that the Government will miss its housing targets for the next three years.And do the newly unsealed files reveal anything more about the assassination of JFK?Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with:Seamus McGrath TD, Fianna FáilLouise O'Reilly TD, Sinn FeinEmmet Ryan, Business and Technology JournalistSarah Kenny, Kenny's BookshopPaul O'Connor, Paul O'Connor Shoes, Cork Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Conor McGregor's visit to the White House for St Patrick's Day unpacked.Five years on, will the state's Covid lockdown evaluation reveal anything new? Plus, after nine months stranded in space, two astronauts are finally set to return to Earth tonight.Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with:Cormac Devlin TD, Fianna FáilMattie McGrath TD, IndependentRichard Hogan, Psychotherapist and ColumnistSaoirse Hanley, Journalist, Irish IndependentLeo Enright, Space Commentator Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

During his visit to the White House for the annual St. Patrick's Day event, Taoiseach Micheál Martin hoped to highlight key issues for Ireland. But with Donald Trump in the spotlight, the conversation turned to pharma companies in Ireland and EU trade tensions.Did the Taoiseach manage to get Ireland's concerns across? Our panel — featuring Harry Browne, Ian O'Doherty, Ben Scallan, Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh and BBC North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher — share their insights. Plus, we reveal the results of our audience poll. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Calls to overhaul Ireland's bail system grow louder as repeat offenders are linked to over 40,000 crimes. Is stricter policy or improved rehabilitation the answer? Plus, with Irish prisons operating at 113% capacity, is building more cells the solution? Our panel of experts weighs in. And we are Live from Washington ahead of the Taoiseach's crucial White House visit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Does Ireland need a DOGE? Independent Ireland propose a new Department of Efficiency, similar to the controversial U.S. model led by Elon Musk. Plus, a vote to grant speaking time to government-backing Independent TDs is delayed until after St Patrick's day. But what happens then? Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with:Thomas Byrne TD, Minister of StateMichael Collins TD, Independent IrelandCaoimhe de Barra, CEO, TrócaireFionnan Sheahan, Ireland Editor, Irish IndependentTune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we discuss Trump's pause on Ukraine aid and his trade war with Canada and Mexico. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe joins to discuss EU defence spending and Ireland's response to tariffs, plus expert panel reaction from Washington.Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with:Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister for FinanceDuncan Smith TD, Labour PartyAidan Regan, Professor of Political Economy, UCDJackie King, CEO, Ibec GlobalJohn Lee, Executive Editor Irish Daily Mail & Mail on SundayTune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we examine the urgent shortage of services for children with special needs. Plus, the political deadlock over speaking rights in the Dáil. Join Gavan Reilly as he discusses the issue with:Micheál Carrigy TD, Fine GaelClaire Kerrane TD, Sinn FeinRebecca Meehan, parent and campaignerAlan Kelly, Principal of Scoil Mhuire Naofa, Leitrim Niamh Griffin, Health Correspondent with the Irish Examiner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With Europe ramping up military spending and America shifting its stance, where does that leave Ireland? On The Tonight Show, we debate whether Ireland should strengthen its defence forces or stick to its long-standing neutrality.Joining the discussion:Fianna Fáil MEP Billy KelleherIndependent TD Catherine ConnollyIndependent Senator Tom ClonanSecurity Correspondent Cormac O'Keefe (Irish Examiner)Prof. Donnacha Ó Beacháin (DCU) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Beds in sheds – could exempting garden cabins from planning laws be a potential gamechanger? Or is it simply a kneejerk reaction to an entrenched housing crisis? And as Ireland prepares to attend a G20 summit for the first time, we discuss whether rapidly moving events in Ukraine might impact Irish neutrality. Gavan Reilly is joined in studio by:John Cummins TD, Minister of State for Local Government and PlanningConor Sheehan TD, Labour's Housing SpokespersonStephen Rae, Co-Founder, AML IntelligenceGabija Gataveckaite, Political Correspondent, Irish IndependentTune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan joins Gavan Reilly in studio to discuss his response to recent knife crimes, his plans to improve garda recruitment numbers and increase prison spaces, and his new vision for tackling immigration. Also on the on the show: Conor Gallagher, Crime and Security Correspondent, The Irish TimesNiall Hodgins, Vice President, GRACathryn Costello, Professor of Refugee and Migration Law, UCDTune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, our host Gavan Reilly is joined by Seamus McGrath, Rory Hearne, Claire Scott, and Dan O'Brien, as they unpack these hot-button issues:

Gavan Reilly is joined by Paul Mitchell, Fiona Cormican, Michael Byrne, Olivia Kelly and Michael O'Flynn to discuss Ireland's Housing Crisis. With housing targets missed, the Taoiseach prioritises private investors and considers a rent cap reviews. The panel discusses: Missed housing targets Shifting government policies Vacant and derelict propertiesWhat will all this mean for renters already struggling with high costs? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Tonight Show:Was the electorate mislead over housing targets, or did the government really believe it would hit 40,000 completions after the election? Plus, was Donald Trump just spitballing about ethnic cleansing in Gaza?And is now really the time to enact the Occupied Territories bill? Gavan Reilly speaks to:Neale Richmond TD, Fine GaelPádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, Sinn FéinLouise Burne, Political Correspondent, Irish MirrorMick Clifford, Special Correspondent, Irish Examiner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Tonight Show:The Government accepts defeat over speaking time row, following the Ceann Comhairle's ruling. But is the coalition now weakened, with some in the regional group now saying they will only vote for government on a case-by-case basis? Plus, Trump gets his first trade war after he imposes tariffs on Chinese goods. But how soon will he come for the EU and what might this mean for Ireland? And plans to force public servants to spend more days back into the office are put on hold, but is remote working now under threat? Gavan Reilly speaks to:Michael Healy-Rae TD, IndependentSinéad Gibney TD, Social DemocratsIan Kehoe, Co-founder, The Currency John Lee, Executive Editor, Irish Daily Mail Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of The Tonight Show:-Outrage grows as 130,000+ still without power, water, or phone service after #StormÉowyn.-Just six women appointed as Ministers of State—raising questions about representation.- Another eye-watering OPW spend: nearly €500,000 on a wall around the Workplace Relations Commission.Join the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show, Gavan Reilly and the panel discuss:

As one storm brews off the Atlantic, another explodes within the Dáil chamber. Dail business is suspended without a Taoiseach elected, following a vicious spat over speaker rights.Also on the show, Status Red warnings for the entire nation, as “potentially historic” Storm Éowyn approaches. Gavan Reilly speaks to: Catherine Callaghan TD, Fine Gael Albert Dolan TD, Fianna Fáil Conor McGuinness TD, Sinn Féin George Lawlor TD, LabourCónal Thomas, Political Correspondent, Business PostAlan O'Reilly, @CarlowWeather Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The second coming of Trump's America First. Plus, free speech versus hate-speech online, and new plans for policing buses and trains. Gavan Reilly speaks to: Aidan Regan, Professor of Political Economy, UCD Catherine Sanz, Legal Correspondent, Business Post Stephen Rae, Strategic Risk Advisor Maria Walsh MEP, Fine GaelJennifer Ewing, Republicans Overseas Tom O'Connor, Assistant General Secretary of the NBRU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Niall Collins TD, Matt Carthy TD, Louise Burne, Fionnán Sheahan, Dr. Emma Howard and Sarah Coates. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Dr. Susan Leavy, Marie Loft, Adrian Weckler, Daniel Murray, Declan Ganley and Gabija Gataveckaite. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Barry Andrews MEP, Liz Carolan, Elaine Burke, Ben Scallan, Mark Paul and Alan O'Reilly Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Minister Malcolm Noonan, Timmy Dooley TD, Francie Gorman, Professor John Sweeney, Sarah McGuinness, Jerry O'Sullivan, Damien Tiernan, David Raleigh, Sinéad Hubble and Stephen McDermott Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Fionnán Sheahan, Sinéad Ryan, Gráinne Ní Aodha, Larry Donnelly and Hannah McCarthy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavan Reilly speaks to Harry McGee, Scott Lucas, Lisa O'Carroll, Jacob Woolf, Lazar Berman, Ofri Ilany and Dan Mulhall Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Lee speaks with Fianna Fail's Thomas Byrne, Sinn Féin's Martin Kenny, St Vincent De Paul's Louise Bayliss and Newstalk Political Reporter Sean Defoe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John Lee speaks to An Taoiseach Simon Harris, Niall Collins TD, Matt Carthy TD and Sarah Carey Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.