The Pat Kenny Show Pat's Sunday Paper Review April 19th
Apr 19, 2026
Ellen Coyne, political correspondent with The Irish Times and author, breaks down the Sunday papers and current political stories. She explores leadership tensions in Fianna Fáil and Healy-Rae resignations. They cover the Daniel Kinahan arrest and international Strait of Hormuz tensions, plus a lighter story about a rescued sea turtle returning to the Atlantic.
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Jet Fuel Risk Tied To US Geopolitics
- European jet fuel shortages and Aer Lingus flight cuts are tied to geopolitical decisions made in Washington rather than just local supply issues.
- Ellen Coyne links potential fuel limits and cancelled flights to fallout from a US decision, warning ordinary people will bear the cost through travel and living expenses.
Heave Attempts Can Fortify Leaders
- Leadership challenges often strengthen incumbents because potential successors avoid taking over during crises or expensive policy periods.
- Coyne notes contenders won't want to inherit the EU presidency and an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, so Micheál Martin may be granted time.
Ultimatum Forced Healy-Rae Exit
- Michael Healy-Rae's resignation may reflect coalition pressure and fear of political ruin if he stayed conflicted between voting and government membership.
- Ellen Coyne reports an ultimatum reportedly came from a Fianna Fáil adviser, making his position untenable.
