The Pat Kenny Show
Newstalk
Pat brings you the sharpest analysis of news and current affairs on the radio and fresh perspectives on the issues that will define a generation. Breaking news is interwoven with reflective news features and reports from a variety of reporters based across the country. Experts are on hand to guide listeners on everything from consumer and employment rights and health issues to savvy holiday options. And Pat is joined by all the best personalities from the entertainment world.CONVERSATION THAT COUNTS | Ireland’s national independent talk station for news, sport, analysis and entertainmentListen to Newstalk at http://newstalk.com/listenlive | Download the GoLoud app now, the new home for Newstalk
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 26, 2025 • 10min
Travel with Pól: The beauty of West Cork
Pól Ó Conghaile, the Irish Independent Travel Editor, shares his passion for West Cork’s lesser-known landscapes and culinary delights. He unveils hidden gems like Guganbarra National Park and the warm hospitality at Cronin's pub. Listeners will discover the stunning Beara and Sheep’s Head peninsulas, along with local food treasures. Pól also highlights upcoming festivals that celebrate the vibrant community. It’s an invitation to explore a region that feels like a well-kept secret, brimming with beauty and charm.
Aug 26, 2025 • 10min
Back to school tech guide
Jess Kelly, a technology journalist known for her gadget recommendations, shares essential tech for students heading back to school. She discusses must-have items like reliable laptop bags and wireless mice that enhance productivity. Jess also highlights useful software tools like Grammarly and Office 365 that can boost academic performance. Plus, she offers tailored laptop recommendations for different fields, ensuring students find the best devices suited for their needs. Get ready to tackle the school year with the right tech!
Aug 26, 2025 • 10min
VHI have announced an average price release of 3%
VHI have announced an average price release of 3% from 1st October 2025. The increase follows as the cost of delivering healthcare also continues to rise. What does this mean for customers and how can they shop around for the best deal. Speaking to Pat this morning was Dermot Goode from Health Insurance Ireland.
Aug 26, 2025 • 24min
The mass abduction of Ukrainian children into Russia
‘This is likely the largest child abduction since world war two comparable to the Germanification of Polish children by the Nazis.’ This is what Nathaniel Raymond Nathaniel Raymond, Executive Director, Humanitarian Research Lab Yale has to say about the mass abduction of Ukrainian children into Russia. Pat discussed the ongoing war with Nathaniel and also Emmanuelle Chaze, Ukraine Correspondent for RFI (Radio France Internationale) And France24.
Aug 26, 2025 • 7min
What to do when your dog is in heat?
There comes a time in every dog’s life when a walk in the park doesn’t cut it anymore and the dog only wants one thing to do – get pregnant or more commonly known as entering heat! Now anyone who has a dog know the trials and tribulations when a female dog enters heat, so what should when your dog is in heat and what can you expect during it? For advice Pat spoke to Elise O' Byrne White, Veterinary Director at the DSPCA.
Aug 26, 2025 • 20min
CIF are expected to meet with the government today
Construction Industry Federation are expected to meet with the government today. They are urging the government to prioritise funding in water and electricity infrastructure in Budget 2026. Speaking to Pat this morning was Conor O’Connell, Director of Housing and Planning at the Construction Industry Federation.
Aug 26, 2025 • 8min
What are neobanks?
As traditional banks consolidate their market share, digital-first global players, known as neobanks, are taking over the Irish market. neobanks are said to provide more accessible, more innovative and faster financial services. But what are neobanks, and why are they gaining more popularity? All to discuss with Robert Whelan, Managing Director of Rockwell Financial.
Aug 26, 2025 • 10min
UCC aims to make health research more inclusive
A new campaign at UCC aims to make health research more inclusive, to include under-served groups like women, ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, older adults, and people with disabilities. Pat hears about it with Frances Shiely, Director of Education and a Professor in patient focused research at the HRB Clinical Research Facility at UCC and a Senior Lecturer in Epidemiology in the School of Public Health.
Aug 26, 2025 • 11min
The rise of the independent coffee shops
It's twenty years since Starbucks arrived here in Ireland, sounding the death knell for local coffee shops nationwide. But just when we thought every corner cafe was done for, the independent coffee shops began to rise and rise. Newstalk’s Sarah Madden went on a coffee crawl around the capital to find out:
Aug 26, 2025 • 10min
No shows for driving tests increasing!
The average waiting time for the driving test has hit its 10-week target but in some centres the waiting time is still higher and the number of no-shows for the test is increasing. All to discuss with Geraldine Herbert, Motoring Editor and Columnist for the Sunday Independent,
