Podcasts about government minister

The Local Government Minister says most councils will be affected by the Government's overhaul of committee voting rights. A Bill amendment will strip voting rights from unelected members —including iwi and youth representatives— on council committees. Simon Watts told Heather du Plessis-Allan he's open to further changes down the track, but acknowledges some unelected members still bring value to local decision-making. He says there are emergency management committees that have specific expertise, for example. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Local Government Minister says they're restoring democratic accountability to councils. The Government's amending a bill currently before Parliament to bar non-elected council members from voting on committees. It follows councillors in the Far North voting to expand a Māori liaison committee. Simon Watts explained such examples give voting rights to people not elected by the community. "You've also seen instances in the last term with someone under the age of 18 being appointed onto Hastings Council. None of that stuff can happen going forward." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Local Government Minister says a pathway's been made for councils to fast-track reform - because they're raring to go. The Government's announced councils have three months to submit rough merger plans, for becoming unitary authorities. In November it said it would abolish regional councillors, and reform local Government over a number of years, while encouraging district councils to merge. Simon Watts says councils have been so receptive, they've invited them to fast track it. "I don't want to set the pace of this reform by the slowest council - actually, the opposite, we want the ones that are ready to go to have a pathway to do that." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mark Levy spoke to Goulburn MP Wendy Tuckerman about claims that staff at Goulburn Correctional Centre could lose their jobs, due to the closure of 1880s-era wings. The NSW Corrections Minister Anoulack Chanthivong called in afterwards to take issue with Ms Tuckerman's campaign, claiming zero jobs will be lost. Listen live, 9am weekdays on 2GB.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's time for "Did You See”. Where we take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Frances Fitzgerald, former Government Minister.

It's time for "Did You See”. Where we take a closer look at some of the stories you may have missed in the news this morning. Joining Anton this morning was Frances Fitzgerald, former Government Minister.

How will local water infrastructure repairs and upgrades be paid for? Local Government Minister Simon Watts spoke to John Campbell.

Changes to the Local Government Act could be on the way after controversy at the Far North District Council. Councillor Diane Smolders claims a committee made-up of six councillors and 10 unelected Iwi and hapu representatives is co-governance on steroids. Local Government Minister Simon Watts says he's looking at changes to give to cabinet. He told Heather du Plessis-Allan that he'll have a proposal soon. Watts says he expects it to take about a month. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Government Minister has said that it is "monitoring" UK fuel reserves and that future fuel rationing is a possibility.   DO JOIN MY SUBSTACK HERE! BUY ME A COFFEE HERE AND SUPPORT MY WORK ON THIS PODCAST

Lucinda Creighton truly bridges two worlds - a former member of the Irish Parliament and a Government Minister with responsibility for European affairs, she also served on the board of Horse Sport Ireland, the governing body for equestrian sport in Ireland. Lucinda grew up in Co Mayo, Ireland as a self-professed 'pony-mad kid'. In this episode we discuss her journey into public service, the dynamics of power and her experiences in the Irish Parliament (Dáil) and government. The conversation explores the importance of building relationships in any type of governance and the connection between politics and the horse industry. We also discuss the evolution of education in horse welfare, and the challenges faced by governing bodies like Horse Sport Ireland. The episode emphasizes the need for respect and engagement with the horse industry's stakeholders, the impact of corporate governance, and the significance of animal welfare as a political concern. Lucinda expresses her wish for better governance that values the voices of those who care for horses, highlighting the importance of community involvement and awareness in the equestrian world.

The Local Government Minister says people should have zero-tolerance for poor dog behaviour. 62-year-old, Mihiata Te Rore, was killed by three dogs on Tuesday, as she visited a home in Kaihu, north of Dargaville. Local MP Shane Jones says jail terms should be considered for owners of what he labels 'homicidal dogs'. Minister Simon Watts says there are issues with local and central Government enforcing the 30-year-old Dog Control Act. He says he is getting advice next week on changing the act - and wants it done promptly. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Government Minister, metro mayors, journalists and political advisors all gathered in orange hi-vis jackets at a rail depot in Leeds today to hear an announcement by Rachel Reeves they hope will be a game-changer for the North's transport links.Leeds MP Ms Reeves has promised the Government will set aside £45bn to pay for Northern Powerhouse Rail, the project designed to speed up rail links between the North's big cities. But after so many broken promises, does anyone in the North believe it will actually happen?On a special edition of the Northern Agenda podcast, Rob Parsons speaks to the Chancellor about why this project is personal for her and what it will mean for the North's economy.Rail Minister Peter Hendy explains what the announcement will mean for the North's commuters - and are metro mayors Andy Burnham and Tracy Brabin happy with what they've heard? The Northern Agenda is a Reach production, presented by Rob Parsons and produced by Daniel J. McLaughlin. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The water service delivery plans have been submitted by local councils and evaluated, and the total is set to hit over $47 billion. Councils handed over these proposals as part of the Government's Local Water Done Well scheme and the Local Government Minister is hopeful these plans will go on to benefit ratepayers. Minister Simon Watts says these proposals have all been signed off and things are in a good place to get going. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An assurance a council rates cap will only target unnecessary costs, not community services or infrastructure. By 2029, councils wanting to increase rates by more than 4% will need approval from a government-appointed regulator. Water rates are excluded from the cap. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Mike Hosking this will be an education process for councils. He says there's a lot of fat in the system and councils need to ensure cash has to be going into essential areas. Watts says he will work with the industry, not against them. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Monday the Government announced an annual 2-4% rates cap range will be fully implemented by 2029. The cap applies to all rates, including general rates, targeted rates and uniform annual charges, but excludes water charges and other non-rates revenue like fees and charges. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Heather du Plessis-Allan, "it's going to be tough Heather, but guess what, it's been tough on everyone - households, businesses. "You think about those on fixed income, in particular, double-digit rate increases, some up to 20%. It's just simply not feasible, and that's what we've been hearing loud and clear from ratepayers" LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Local Government Minister is pleased to see councils joining forces under the new water infrastructure model. The Department of Internal Affairs expects councils to spend nearly 48-billion dollars on Local Water Done Well over the next decade. The reforms could create more than 40 water entities, with some councils joining multi-council-controlled organisations. Simon Watts told Mike Hosking that 38 councils have already combined to form 12 entities. But he says it's never been about the number of entities - the critical part is whether it's financially sustainable. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Majority in Parliament, during the post-budget debate today, posed a question that sparked a heated exchange between the leaders of both caucuses. The heated debate arose from a question by the Local Government Minister, Ahmed Ibrahim, who sought to know the whereabouts of the former Finance Minister, Ken Ofori-Atta

Catherine Connolly's election as the 10th President and 3rd female Úachtaráin na hÉireann was a foregone conclusion from early doors on Saturday, racking up more votes than any candidate in Irish Electoral History, however Clare's count still threw up a number of surprises. Clare FM's Daragh Dolan was in attendance at Clare's Presidential Election Count Centre at Treacy's Oakwood Hotel in Shannon where he first heard from Ennistymon Activist Ann Marie Flannagan who shared her thoughts on Catherine Connolly's landslide win. Also on Tuesday's Morning Focus, Alan Morrissey spoke with Tony Killeen, Former Fianna Fáil Government Minister. Photo (c) Michelle O'Neill Facebook

Will this lead toward world AI government?

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Jim Gavin has been nominated by Fianna Fáil for the Irish Presidency, beating out MEP Billy Kelleher in a vote today. And, with Taoiseach Micheal Martin backing the candidate who lost the vote, what does it tell us about the party's faith in his leadership?Kieran is joined by Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher as well as Newstalk's Political Correspondent Seán Defoe to discuss the nomination, and later Fionnan Sheahan, Ireland Editor with the Irish Independent and Ivan Yates, former Government Minister, join to discuss what this could mean for the future of the party.

In the wake of the polarising three waters, councils across the country were mandated by the government to submit their water service delivery plan by Wednesday. Minister for Local Government Simon Watts spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Being a minister is a job like no other. No briefing, no training and, sometimes, no warning – from day one a new minister could find themselves making high-stakes decisions with huge consequences for the country.   So getting some advice from people that have been a minister can be useful – and the IfG's Ministers Reflect series is the place to start.   Over the past 10 years, the Institute for Government has interviewed more than 170 former ministers from the UK and devolved governments about their time in office   To mark the 10th anniversary of Ministers Reflect, this special edition of Inside Briefing, featuring guests  including Jeremy Hunt, Una O'Brien and Marie Le Conte, takes a look at what former ministers have told us in the last decade. Essential listening for anyone wanting to understanding what it is like to be a minister – and especially for anyone who might want to become one.   Presented by Sachin Savur and Paddy McAlary Produced by Candice McKenzie Additional recordings by Milo Hynes Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Government wants to ensure local councils get back to the basics. A bill moving through Parliament would require councils to financially refocus their core services. The Government wants councils to give more value to ratepayers. Local Government Minister Simon Watts told Heather du Plessis-Allan anything could be defined as "wellbeing". He says because of lack of clarity on council responsibilities, any activity is in scope, which is bad news for ratepayers. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Local Government Minister says new legislation in the works will give councils clarity. An amendment bill's been introduced to Parliament to make local bodies focus on core services. It also demands regular public progress reports - and disclosure on the cost of consultants and contractors. Simon Watts says it's a return to bread and butter duties. "Previously, terms like social, cultural and economic type activities - they were all just catch-all. And as a result, some councils across the country were doing stuff that was basically wasteful spending." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Clare TD is accusing a Government Minister of causing uncertainty among third level students with regard to fees. It comes ahead of a Sinn Féin motion to be debated today and voted on tomorrow evening which is calling for college fees to be reduced by €500 this September and abolished within two years. Reports emerged over the weekend suggesting that in spite of previous commitments, Further and Higher Education James Lawless will now push for a €700 cut to fees in Budget 2026. Sinn Féin's Further and Higher Education spokesperson, Shannon Deputy Donna McGettigan, claims the Minister has accused her of unnecessarily sowing fear among students - a charge she firmly denies.

The Former Local Government Minister's not taking issue with the Auckland Mayor's new manifesto. Wayne Brown has laid out his thoughts and a Beehive to-do list ahead of the 2025 Budget. He scored the Government a B+, saying they're too distracted by mega-projects and press releases. Simeon Brown told Mike Hosking Wayne Brown is just doing his job. He says he's the mayor of our largest city and he's advocating for what he believes is needed, even if they don't agree. The Government's refusing to budge on an Auckland bed tax. Brown's manifesto also includes calling for the government to reconsider an Auckland bed levy, adding a small fee on short term accommodation. Brown told Hosking they don't want to lump Aucklanders with the tax. He says in fact the council should be looking for efficiencies in its own budget instead of new taxes. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonight on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists. The three of them discuss: this Auckland's Measles case, and the governments proposed social media ban for under 16s. Heather Roy is a former Government Minister, deputy leader of ACT, and now professional director and principal of boutique consulting company TorquePoint. Dean Hall is the CEO of Rocketwerkz.

Tonight on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists. The three of them discuss: raising speed limits outside schools, mothers day & the Dunedin childrens theatre seeking council health. Heather Roy is a former Government Minister, deputy leader of ACT, and now professional director and principal of boutique consulting company TorquePoint. Dean Hall is the CEO of Rocketwerkz.

Danielle Mullings is a dynamic young leader and technology enthusiast. She does a fun mix of tech, youth empowerment, and media, hosting a youth TV show, moderating global science events, and serving on Jamaica's AI Task Force. Danielle is currently juggling these responsibilities while part-time pursuing her Masters of Science in Translational Health Sciences at Oxford University while also working with regional and international entities. In this episode, Danielle discusses her commitment to bringing young people together, listening to their experiences and ensuring that their voices are heard… leadership roles early in her school and university years… incorporating the viewpoints of others in the youth leadership and advocacy space… working to increase the number of young people  involved in decision-making forums… growing up in a loving and supportive family, and the important life lessons her family taught her… being encouraged to pursue roles of increasing scope and responsibilities as a university student, including running for Guild President, leading thousands of students and being the official representative to the university administration, as well as the regional university administration, representing 50,000 students across the Caribbean… the role of technology in effectively gathering and using data to understand and communicate the needs of students… how her experiences led her to become the host of a youth TV show in Jamaica, showcasing young people, their stories, and their accomplishments… the importance of individualized approaches to self-care… ways to deal with our own self-criticism… the importance of volunteerism and how it can lead to unexpected career opportunities… having the courage to apply for roles that may seem out of reach... how introducing herself to a Government Minister led to being invited to join Jamaica's AI Task Force and another government committee... the power of a simple compliment in encouraging others, and the reminder to be more positive as we speak with people day-to-day… and her advice to young women (and us all) to “shoot for the stars” as we find our voice. (Jamaica)

Tonight on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Peter Dunne & Boopsie Maran. The trio discuss Nationals proposed social media ban for under 16s. Plus the Government halting all pay equity claims, and the Auditor-General launching an inquiry into David Seymour's school lunch programme. Peter Dunne is a former MP and Government Minister, turned commentator. Boopsie Maran is an urban strategist and founder of Places for Good a Tamaki Makaurau based community engagement and placemaking collective.

Tonight on The Panel, Wallace Chapman is joined by panellists Peter Dunne & Boopsie Maran. They look at whether Newmarket's Westfield mall is killing neighbouring businesses, and Blenheim's CBD dilemma. Peter Dunne is a former MP and Government Minister, turned commentator. Boopsie Maran is an urban strategist and founder of Places for Good a Tamaki Makaurau based community engagement and placemaking collective.

Barry Lenihan, RTÉ Reporter // Dr. Jennifer Kavanagh, Law Lecturer, South East Technological University // Finian McGrath, former Government Minister and former TD for Dublin Bay North

The government is calling in the Commerce Commission to help fix Wellington's water issues. This means Wellington Water will have to report details of its financial management to the Commerce Commission, and the commission will make sure that Wellington ratepayers aren't getting ripped off. How exactly are they going to do it? Local Government Minister Simon Watts talks to Ryan Bridge about the details. LISTEN ABOVE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacqui Felgate's strong editorial on the $11.7 billion cost blowout to Victoria's major projects. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we look at the latest Government minister to be forced to leave their role. Health minister Andrew Gwynne has been sacked after a newspaper revealed he sent a string of offensive and abusive WhatsApp messages. Gwynne said on X that he was sorry for any offence caused by the "badly misjudged" comments. Laura, Paddy and Henry discuss.Meanwhile, the deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner spoke to Laura about accusations she was “aggressive” during a Grenfell Tower demolition meeting. You can now listen to Newscast on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play Newscast”. It works on most smart speakers. You can join our Newscast online community here: https://tinyurl.com/newscastcommunityhere Newscast brings you daily analysis of the latest political news stories from the BBC. It was presented by Laura Kuenssberg and Paddy O'Connell . It was made by Jack Maclaren with Catherine Fusillo. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The assistant editor is Chris Gray. The editor is Sam Bonham.

A county Galway farmer has been given a community service order in lieu of a prison sentence for assaulting former Minister of State Anne Rabbitte by throwing a package containing cow dung at her. Reporter John Cooke is at the District Court in Ennis

The Local Government Act is being scrubbed of requirements to consider social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being. The Government says its reforms will refocus councils on basics - like fixing pipes, filling potholes, and delivering core services. It will also benchmark council performance and modernise rules to drive cost savings. Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says this'll stop councils spending lots of money on things they argue fit within the four well-being objectives. "They won't be able to use that excuse when they go out to consult on their annual plans or their long-term plans as to why they want to spend money on those activities." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joining Brendan to discuss the stories of the week were Gerard Howlin, Public Affairs Advisor and former Government Minister, Prof Niamh Hourigan, Sociologist and Vice President at Mary Immaculate College, Harry McGee, Political Correspondent with the Irish Times and Dr. Katriona O'Sullivan, Psychology Lecturer and author.

Local Government Minister Simeon Brown says Wellington City Council's new Crown Observer Lindsay McKenzie will sort through its “dysfunction between personalities". Former Tasman and Gisborne council boss Lindsay McKenzie will start in the role tomorrow. Brown told Mike Hosking that McKenzie will be “working with the mayor and councillors to help them get on.” McKenzie's other role would regard Wellington City Council's long-term plan, after the council “decided to throw it out and start again.” “That's created some significant concern about the financial position of the council.” Brown says he'll be getting monthly reports from McKenzie ahead of a final report at the end of his term on July 31. He said McKenzie would provide external advice and assist with a fresh pair of eyes, though it's up to the council whether they follow the Crown Observer's guidance. “[He is] someone else who … has not been part of all the drama over the last little while and can provide an extra set of advice.” LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wellington's Mayor Tory Whanau is meeting with the Local Government Minister Simeon Brown on Thursday as her council faces the threat of government intervention. Krystal Gibbens reports.

A Government Minister claims investment is being put into Clare to protect the county's IDA-supported jobs. It comes as data from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment has revealed the number of people employed in Clare as a result of foreign direct investment has dipped under 6,000 for the first time in a decade. The level of growth in jobs supported by the Industrial Development Agency in the Midwest region as a whole was just 2.6% last year compared to 5.8% in the Midlands. Speaking during a visit to Clare, Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and the Employment, Emer Higgins, has been telling Clare FM's Seán Lyons the Government is prioritising regional development to ensure counties like Clare remain as attractive as urban centres like Dublin.

A Government Minister says he gives "every encouragement" to those working to bring about the reopening of Crusheen Railway Station. Clare County Council has already given its commitment to plans for the defunct rail stop to be reinstated, having recently announced its purchase of lands to provide a strategic landbank to be used for the station. A socio-economic analysis of the benefits of reopening the station commissioned by the local authority and published this month states it would have a commuter market of between 1,100 and 1,700 people while its 15-year employment income impact would be in excess of €25 million. Responding to a contribution by Tulla Fianna Fáil Senator Timmy Dooley on the subject in the Seanad, Fine Gael Minister of State Neale Richmond says he sees merit in the arguments being put forward by the station's champions.

A Government Minister has acknowledged the challenges facing the people of Kilrush. Alan Dillon who's Fine Gael Minister of State at the Department of Housing and Local Government says while the concerns and frustrations of communities are well-founded, he insists a line has to be drawn on any nuances made about the intentions of Asylum Seekers.

Britain's July 4th General Election marked a reset of the political landscape in the UK with the Labour Party winning a landslide victory of 412 seats in the 650 seat Parliament. The Conservative Party lost over 200 seats, But the moderate Liberal Democrat Party surged into third place with 72 seats, And the Reform Party headed by Nigel Farage garnered four seats. Vince Cable, former leader of the LibDem Party and Government Minister shares his analysis of the reults.

Holy Dooley - we are now 6 years old!!! To celebrate this epic milestone for the show, we are taking the equivalent of a First Class Round the World ticket to hear from the most amazing, impactful and wise guests - all in this one episode! From the UK's House of Lords, to the woman who has been declared as being responsible for creating the most exciting constitutional democracy in the world. From a global design icon and author to an internationally recognised and lauded Social Entrepreneur from Ethiopia. We hear from our very oldest (and wisest) guest at 92 and also our very youngest guest (mid 20's) both on starting a business. And what different experiences they had some 70 years apart! There's so much in here it's hard to summarise so just a few of the things you will hear include: Advice from a non techy tech veteran on how all of us can, and need to, become meaningfully involved in tech How the world's first non binary Government Minister and the world's most recognised leader of enhancing democracy against authoritarianism, Audrey Tang, thinks about her role How a seasoned entrepreneur and philanthropist in the Americas believes women need to advocate much more strongly for themselves when it comes to negotiating; What to think about before you start your side hustle or startup; and We hear from Stanford Graduate School of Business Professor Jennifer Aaker and her co-author colleague, Naomi Bagdonas, on how important it is for us all to lighten up a little. Our aim is that this celebration episode will brighten and lighten your day. So without further ado wish us Happy Birthday and enjoy this blockbuster episode!Useful LinksTrailer for feature documentary ‘Good Enough Ancestor' about Audrey TangCurious to learn more? Check out our full interviews with our featured guests:Full episode with Martha Lane FoxFull episode with Audrey TangFull episode with June Dally WatkinsFull episode with Brukty TigabuFull episode with Margarita HerdociaFull episode with Sophia AthasFull episode with Debbie MillmanFull episode with Jennifer Aaker and Naomi Bagdonas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Selina Robinson discusses how she was forced to resign as minister of post-secondary education in Canada's British Columbia. The sequence of events leading to this undeserved firing was fueled by her remark about the legitimacy of the State of Israel. 

Cush Jumbo is the award-winning actor known for her roles on the stage and screen, from The Good Fight to Macbeth. She joins Clare McDonnell to discuss starring in - and executive producing – the new crime thriller series Criminal Record. Cush stars as DS June Lenker, a police detective locked in a confrontation with an older detective, played by Peter Capaldi, over a historic murder conviction.For the first time, Royal Mail has dedicated set of stamps to a female pop group, to commemorate 30 years since the Spice Girls formed in 1994. Lauren Bravo, a culture journalist and author and DJ Yinka Bokinni joined Emma to talk about it.Last week on Woman's Hour we heard the candid admission by the former Labour MP and Government Minister, Dame Joan Ruddock that she was ready to end her terminally ill husband's life using a pillow in a bid to end his pain. Her husband the former MP Frank Doran had been suffering from end stage bowel cancer in 2017, and she struggled to get him pain relief medication in the hours before he died. She is now calling for a free vote in the Commons to legalise assisted dying. The public debate around the subject has been revived in recent months by leading figures such as Esther Rantzen - who revealed that she is considering travelling to a Dignitas clinic in Switzerland if her cancer worsens. But others such as Baroness Ilora Finlay, a cross bench peer in the House of Lords and a palliative end of life care expert, are cautioning against a law change. She believes improved access to care and pain relief is the answer when people are dying rather than the taking of lethal drugs. She joins Clare McDonnell to reflect on the new push for a law change.Shere Hite - a name many people will remember, but some may not know. She was a pioneering feminist sex researcher who published her ground-breaking book, The Hite Report: A National Study of Female Sexuality in 1976. The book was seen by many as radical, changing prevailing notions about female sexuality. Shere went on to write and publish several more books, but endured intense and lasting criticism in the US, and eventually moved to Europe and renounced her American citizenship in 1995. She died in 2020. Emmy-winning and Oscar-nominated Director, Nicole Newnham felt that despite how influential Shere had been in life, that she has since been forgotten. So Nicole produced the documentary, The Disappearance of Shere Hite, which is released in UK cinemas on January 12th. She joins Krupa to discuss it. As the number of pupils missing a significant amount of their education is about double the level it was before the pandemic, Clare is joined by Ellie Costello, the executive director of Square Peg, a not-for-profit which helps families that struggle with school attendance.

Woman's Hour investigates the cosmetic surgery clinic taking legal action when patients post unfavourable reviews. Kate Kronenbach tells reporter Melanie Abbott she was disappointed when she had an operation to remove fat from her arms after losing 10 stone, and received a solicitor's letter when she wrote about her experience on the Trustpilot website. Action has also been taken against five others. The Free Speech Union is supporting them in their case. Clare McDonnell discusses the story with Melanie and speaks to the Union and to patient campaigner Dawn Knight. Is speed-dating making a comeback? Apathy over dating apps seems to be pushing both men and women towards the kind of speed dating that was so popular in the nineties. But is it better than online dating? And does it work? Clare is joined by writer Radhika Sanghani and relationship counsellor Suzie Hayman to discuss.Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina won a controversial fourth consecutive term in Parliamentary elections last elections last Sunday. The opposition party called it a 'sham' election, coming after mass arrests of her political opponents and refused to participate. The leader of the Opposition former PM Khaleda Zia – also female - is under house arrest. Between them the two women have dominated Bangladeshi politics since 1991. BBC News South Asian Correspondent, Samira Hussain, joins Clare McDonnell to tell us more about these leaders and the political situation in Bangladesh. Last week on Woman's Hour we heard the candid admission by the former Labour MP and Government Minister, Dame Joan Ruddock that she was ready to end her terminally ill husband's life using a pillow in a bid to end his pain. Her husband the former MP Frank Doran had been suffering from end stage bowel cancer in 2017, and she struggled to get him pain relief medication in the hours before he died. She is now calling for a free vote in the Commons to legalise assisted dying. The public debate around the subject has been revived in recent months by leading figures such as Esther Rantzen - who revealed that she is considering travelling to a Dignitas clinic in Switzerland if her cancer worsens; and the late Dame Diana Rigg, who made a recording before her death making the case for assisted dying. But others such as Baroness Ilora Finlay, a cross bench peer in the House of Lords and a palliative end of life care expert, are cautioning against a law change. She believes improved access to care and pain relief is the answer when people are dying rather than the taking of lethal drugs. She joins Clare McDonnell to reflect on the new push for a law change.Presented by Clare McDonnell Producer: Louise Corley

It's been a year since Pope Francis officially apologized for the Roman Catholic Church's role in the abuses and forced assimilation of Indigenous people at Canadian residential schools. At the time, officials said it was an important step toward healing and reconciliation. But others said it was more important for the Church to take action in addition to rhetoric. We'll get different perspectives about the weight of the papal apology one year later. GUESTS Chief Wilton Littlechild (Cree), International Chief for Treaty Six and the former commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada Piita Irniq (Inuk), elder, residential school survivor, and Inuit cultural teacher Andrew Carrier (Métis), Red River Métis Government Minister for Residential & Day Schools Dr. Apooyak'ii, Tiffany Prete (Kainai [Blood Tribe]), assistant professor of sociology at the University of Lethbridge