The Tonight Show

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: With the presidential election over, the fallout has begun. Government parties are counting the cost of defeat, with Fianna Fáil facing renewed internal unrest and whispers of a no-confidence motion against Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Meanwhile, Fine Gael's Seán Kelly has accused his party of “shafting” him, deepening the coalition's woes.Plus, Stripe co-founder John Collison says Ireland is “stuck” - caught in a web of agencies and red tape that's stalling progress on housing and infrastructure. The panel debates: is he right, and have our leaders lost sight of the basics of running a country?

Tensions remain high in Citywest, where protests continue outside a centre for asylum seekers. Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly has promised a “robust response” to any violence as concerns grow over public safety and community division. Joining the discussion are Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon, Sinn Féin TD and Justice Spokesperson Matt Carthy, and Eimer McAuley, News Correspondent with The Journal.Later, outrage after a deepfake video of presidential candidate Catherine Connolly, falsely claiming she had quit the race, spreads online. Could AI manipulation truly sway voters? Adrian Weckler, Irish Independent Technology Editor, and Dr. Susan Leavy, Assistant Professor at UCD's School of Information and Communication Studies, explore how deepfakes threaten democracy.Unrest on the ground, deception online — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Violence has erupted outside a centre for asylum seekers in Citywest, Dublin, after an alleged sexual assault in the area. A Garda van has been set alight, and fireworks and bottles thrown at officers. Journalist Ronan McGreevy reports live from the scene, as our panel — Fianna Fáil Senator Dee Ryan, Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne, entrepreneur Declan Ganley, and Irish Examiner columnist Fergus Finlay — debate what's driving the unrest.Later, with just three days to go until the presidential election, nearly half the electorate say neither candidate represents them. Could a growing campaign to spoil votes send a message — or backfire?Tensions on the streets, frustration at the polls — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: With just days to go before voters head to the polls, our panel analyses The Big Interview with Colette Fitzpatrick, dissecting Heather Humphreys' performance and presidential vision. Plus, controversy over a Fine Gael attack ad targeting Catherine Connolly - a legitimate challenge or a sign of campaign panic?

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: From waiting lists for scoliosis and spina bifida services at CHI to renewed delays in completing the National Children's Hospital, the government's record on children's health comes under the spotlight.Plus, will the forcing through of the vote of confidence in Tánaiste Simon Harris defuse the risk of a debate on disabilities during the final week of the presidential campaign?

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: Are Irish households being ripped off? With electricity bills three times higher than wholesale costs, we ask if price-gouging, over reliance on data centres, or a lack of regulation are to blame for Ireland's energy crisis.Plus, swimmer Shane Ryan explains why he's joining the so-called “drug and steroid Olympics” - the controversial Enhanced Games.

As all remaining Israeli hostages are freed and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners released, the U.S. President hails a lasting peace in Gaza — but can it truly hold, and at what cost? Conflict mediator Oliver McTernan, former Minister for Justice Alan Shatter, Sinn Féin Senator Chris Andrews, and Irish Independent Executive Editor Kevin Doyle share their insights.Earlier, The Tonight Show also examines Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly's performance on The Big Interview with Colette Fitzpatrick, with analysis from Kevin Cunningham, Lecturer in Politics at TU, and Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News, Irish Independent.Global diplomacy, political ambition, and the fight for lasting peace — all on this episode of The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

esterday's Budget unveiled new measures to tackle the housing crisis — including a VAT cut on apartment sales from 13.5% to 9%. Is it a smart solution to boost supply, or just another break for developers? Fine Gael Minister of State John Cummins, Sinn Féin TD and Housing Spokesperson Eoin Ó Broin, and Irish Examiner Political Correspondent Louise Burne debate the move.Meanwhile, Fianna Fáil faces internal unrest as the party meets to examine the fallout from Jim Gavin's withdrawal from the presidential race. How did his ill-fated bid get through “very comprehensive due diligence”? Fianna Fáil MEP Cynthia Ní Murchú joins the discussion on what went wrong — and what happens next.Housing, politics, and party fallout — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Budget 2026 was billed as an investment in the future — but in the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, are households actually worse off? Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers and Sinn Féin's Public Expenditure Spokesperson Mairéad Farrell go head-to-head in studio.We'll also examine the government's decision to cut VAT for the hospitality sector. Will it protect jobs — or just pad profits for the so-called “burger barons”?Joining the discussion: Fine Gael TD and President of the Vintners Federation of Ireland John Clendennen, Social Democrats TD Sinéad Gibney, and John Lee, Executive Editor at the Irish Daily Mail & Mail on Sunday.Politics, pressure, and the price of living — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy:Fianna Fáil in crisis as Jim Gavin spectacularly exits the presidential race. Are Michael Martin's days numbered after this ‘serious miscalculation'?Plus, what does this mean for the remaining two? Will Fianna Fáil back Heather Humphreys, and will the latest Áras polls prove correct as Catherine Connolly pulls ahead?And predictions on the eve of Budget '26, as well as a look at tomorrow's papers…

As Budget day looms, we ask will cutting VAT be helpful to a struggling hospitality sector, or is it simply wasteful spending and "economically illiterate?Plus, our panel will be forecasting other key areas in next Tuesday's package, as households brace for no repeat of one-off supports.And, a look ahead to tomorrow's front pages and the Gaza Flotilla

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: What did yesterday's presidential debate reveal about the candidates, and the key issues that will dominate this election? Is the government's plan to splash cash at asylum applicants a "right-wing dog whistle"? We'll also discuss the Gaza "peace plan" along with all of tomorrow's front-page news.

Independent candidate Catherine Connolly, Fine Gael's Heather Humphreys and Fianna Fáil's Jim Gavin go head-to-head in the first major TV debate of the presidential election. In this special edition of The Tonight Show, the three candidates outline their visions for Ireland's future, challenge each other's policies, and set the tone for the campaign ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ireland's presidential election is down to just three candidates — the fewest since 1990. Is the system concentrating too much power in too few hands? Minister of State and Independent TD Michael Healy-Rae, Labour TD Marie Sherlock, and Virgin Media News Political Correspondent Gavan Reilly join the debate.Meanwhile, fallout continues from Donald Trump's explosive speech at the UN General Assembly, with Zara King, Virgin Media News Correspondent, reporting live from New York.And as Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill pushes new legislation to clamp down on single-use vapes, the panel asks: will a ban really work, or just push demand underground? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With presidential nominations closing, the election debate intensifies. Fianna Fáil TD Séamus McGrath, Sinn Féin TD Eoin Ó Broin, Fine Gael TD Joe Neville, and Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín — backing independent hopeful Maria Steen — set out their positions as the race for the Áras heats up.On housing, Séamus McGrath and Eoin Ó Broin are joined by Mick Clifford, Special Correspondent with the Irish Examiner, to discuss warnings from the State's affordable housing chair that over two thirds of workers are priced out of the market.And later, Mick Clifford returns to analyse US President Donald Trump's address to the United Nations General Assembly. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: The Dáil returns with the budget now firmly in sight, and opposition TDs are hitting out over the removal of energy credits amid spiralling costs. Meanwhile, the Ceann Comhairle is calling for a cross-party legislative response to growing threats against politicians, including attacks on the Tánaiste's family. We unpack what measures might be proposed and what this means for both politics and public confidence.Plus, Donald Trump's UK state visit.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns faces a tough return to the office after photos emerged of deputy Eoin Hayes in blackface at a Halloween party 16 years ago. Meanwhile, independent presidential hopeful Gareth Sheridan secures the green light in Tipperary thanks to a rogue Fine Gael councillor. Plus, the UN releases a devastating report accusing Israel of committing genocide in Gaza

On this episode of The Tonight Show, we tackle recent threats to Tánaiste Simon Harris' family and ask how political intimidation can be de-escalated. We also explore Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil's moves on presidential nominations, and hear from the outgoing British Ambassador on UK/Ireland relations. Guests include TDs Neale Richmond and Peadar Tóibín, and Kevin Doyle, Executive Editor of the Irish Independent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fianna Fáil has chosen former Dublin manager Jim Gavin as its presidential candidate — but with divisions in the party and Sinn Féin yet to make their move, will Catherine Connolly emerge as the left's choice or could a late twist change the race for the Áras?At the same time, food and fuel costs continue to spiral as the government confirms the upcoming Budget will drop one-off cost-of-living measures. Will targeted supports be enough, or are households being left behind?Fianna Fáil TD Shane Moynihan, Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway-Walsh, and Virgin Media Political Correspondent Gavan Reilly join the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: We discuss domestic crime issues in the New Garda Commissioner's first week and hear from an Independent presidential hopeful who has pledged to “make crime illegal.”Plus, we look at the debate over the Irish tricolour being used by anti-immigration campaigners – should it be raised, removed, or reclaimed?Also, with the Gardaí now able to access evidence from Enchrochat, can organised crime finally be held to account?

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: Joined in studio by former meteorologist Joanna Donnelly, who has just declared her interest in running for president, we unpack the latest developments in the race for the Áras.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: With rising resignations, low recruitment and a Garda hospitalised after an unprovoked stabbing in Dublin; just what lies ahead in the in-tray of the new Garda Commissioner?And, with more than 9 out of 10 Irish people worried about the daily cost of living, and no one-off lump sums expected; are we heading for an austerity Budget for 2026?

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy:The government seeks to overhaul planning laws in order to boost housing supply, but should garden cabins really be exempt? Plus, Europe capitulates to Trump over tariffs, but what does the trade deal mean for budget planning and Irish jobs? And should the Irish hospitality sector still get its tax cut?

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: The Government unveils its big investment plan for the next decade, with new funding earmarked for housing, water and Metrolink. But where's the detail to match the ambition? And what tariffs? Despite dire warnings over trade and FDI, today's budget projections present a "business as usual" tax and spending plan.

It's been a stormy first six months for the newly-formed coalition — from bitter rows over speaking rights to growing pressure on healthcare and housing. Has the government weathered the storm, or are cracks already showing?In this episode of The Tonight Show, Bríd Smith, John Lee, and Gabija Gataveckaite hand out gold stars (and some red cards) as they dissect a turbulent political term and what it signals for the months ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has ruled out any new cost of living supports in the upcoming budget, citing falling inflation and a shift toward infrastructure investment. Taoiseach Micheál Martin defended the move in Leaders' Questions, while Tanaiste Simon Harris confirmed one-off measures will be scrapped. But with reduced VAT for hospitality still costing over €700 million annually, has the government prepared for the political fallout?Also on the show: the Tanaiste warns of serious risks from potential US tariffs, and Fine Gael confirms Mairead McGuinness as its presidential candidate.Joining Kieran Cuddihy tonight were Fianna Fáil TD Malcolm Byrne, Social Democrats TD Sinéad Gibney, and Fionnán Sheahan, Ireland Editor with the Irish Independent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran Cuddihy: Is it finally time to copy other countries and introduce a ‘tourist tax' in Ireland? Will Trump pose 200% tariffs on pharmaceuticals, or will he chicken-out? And Elon Musk's Grok AI sparks social media outrage with Hitler praise.

On The Tonight Show with Kieran CuddihyCabinet agrees to ease apartment size rules in an effort to reduce costs and increase supply. But will the plan do either? Plus, pressure mounts on government over lack of cost of living supports in the next budget, after Barnardos survey reveals scale of families pushed to brink by rising costs.And the race for the Aras finally gets interesting, after Mary Lou McDonald refuses to rule herself out as a presidential candidate.

With U.S. tariffs looming and EU trade policy at a crossroads, Tánaiste Simon Harris hints at a 10% rate becoming the "new normal." Lucinda Creighton, Kevin Doyle, and Dr. Nora Strecker unpack what this means for Ireland and beyond.Then, President Trump's “One Big, Beautiful Bill” clears the Senate — but what's in it, and who wins or loses? Niall Stanage of The Hill joins the panel for a fiery breakdown.Finally, as President Michael D. Higgins prepares to step down, Ireland braces for its first presidential race in over a decade. The panel asks if Ireland really needs a President? It's tariffs, Trump, and a turning point in Irish politics — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show, we marked 160 days of the new coalition by asking: where are the bold solutions to the housing crisis?We also examined the shock news that student fees are rising again—despite previous government pledges to reduce them.Plus, as Europe swelters under extreme heat, with schools shut in France and bans on outdoor work in Italy, we ask: is this the new normal, and are we ready for it?Catch the full debate and analysis now.#TonightVMTV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On The Tonight Show with Gavan Reilly Driven by economic growth, rising demands and government policies, Ireland is now ranked as Europe's second most-expensive country. But for many, the prosperity is not trickling down. Also, what does the future hold for jobs and the economy in an AI world, and can Ireland keep up? Plus, gondolas and angry locals: Jeff Bezos' wedding brings Venice to a standstill.

On The Tonight Show with Gavan ReillyAfter the missiles came the F-bombs - Donald Trump furious as both Israel and Iran appear to flout the terms of his brokered ceasefire.As the EU threatens consequences over Gaza, Ireland prepares a bill to ban goods from occupied Palestinian territories.And the trailer drops for Saipan — but 20 years on, does Keane v McCarthy still stir the same emotion?

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.