Dan O'Brien

Declan Power, a security and defence analyst; Brid Smith, a Ballyfermot community activist and former TD; Louise Burne, an Irish Examiner political correspondent; and Dan O’Brien, chief economist, discuss front-page headlines. They cover a controversial house demolition, Taoiseach’s US visit, Iran and military escalation risks, energy support dilemmas, targeted help versus broad cuts, cyberbullying and rising online misogyny, plus a sport morale boost.

Dr. Carmel Hannan, an Associate Professor in Sociology at the University of Limerick, explores the connection between women's education and declining birth rates in Ireland. She discusses how postponed adulthood and economic insecurity contribute to smaller families. Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist at the Institute of International and European Affairs, places Ireland's trend within a global context, raising questions about economic sustainability and the implications of an ageing population. Together, they examine the balance between cultural choices and economic pressures impacting fertility.

Daniel McConnell, editor of the Business Post, discusses the surprising timing of Paschal Donohoe's resignation and its rarity. Dan O’Brien critiques Donohoe's fiscal policies while highlighting potential benefits to Ireland from his new World Bank role. Sarah Carey warns of a 'brain drain' in Fine Gael, stressing the need for effective leadership beyond technical skills. Professor Gary Murphy predicts limited changes in government stability despite the reshuffle, pointing to new cabinet replacements with cautious optimism.