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
Oct 31, 2025 • 10min
Is the 3I/Atlas that is passing earth a comet or an alien?
Is the 3I/Atlas that is passing earth a comet or an alien? A Harvard University Professor reckons it could be alien technology because of its brightness, rarity and diameter but only time will tell if is just a natural comet or alien? We asked Frances McCarthy, Education & Outreach at Blackrock Castle Observatory what she thought of it all.
Oct 31, 2025 • 22min
News stories of the week on the Friday Forum
Joining Pat on the Friday Forum was Malcolm Byrne TD, Fianna Fáil, Chair of the Oireachtas Committee on Artificial Intelligence, Spokesperson on Climate, Environment and Energy, Wicklow-Wexford. Also on the panel was Peadar Toibin TD, Leader, Aontú, Meath West and Ellen Coyne, Political Correspondent, Irish Times.
Oct 31, 2025 • 15min
King Charles formally stripped Andrew of his royal titles
King Charles has formally stripped Andrew of his royal titles, including his royal status as Prince. We get the latest on this with Enda Brady, International TV News anchor with TRT World.
Oct 31, 2025 • 6min
Looking ahead to this weekend in sport
Looking ahead to this weekend in sport, the Premier League returns with an exciting lineup as Chelsea takes on Tottenham in a London derby, in rugby Ireland play the All Blacks, and we look back over this week in soccer, with Shamrock Rovers finally winning the title, and Abbie Larkin securing a promotion for the women’s national team.All to chat with Off The Ball broadcaster, Colm Boohig.
Oct 31, 2025 • 14min
The many who don't get the chance to take their attacker to court
Back at the end of august we revealed on this show that over the past 10 years the Director of Public Prosecutions chose not to prosecute over 67 percent of sexual offence cases submitted to it by gardaí. The information was received under a freedom of information request, and it showcased the burden of proof needed for justice, what it takes to build a case, and importantly, the thousands of people who don’t get the chance to take their attacker to court.Our reporter Jessica Woodlock has been looking into these figures and reported for us.
Oct 31, 2025 • 23min
David McWilliams on Ireland's economic state
Despite international pressures, the Irish economy is projected to grow by almost 11% thanks to strong pharma exports and consumer spending. Joining Pat this morning was David McWilliams on Ireland's economic state .
Oct 30, 2025 • 14min
Hollywood screenwriter, director, producer, novelist Todd Komarnicki
Todd Komarnicki, a renowned Hollywood screenwriter and director known for his work on Sully and Elf, shares his insights ahead of the Dingle Film Festival. He discusses his creative process and the unique story behind his upcoming film, Bonhoeffer, highlighting its anti-fascist message. Todd also reflects on his Irish roots and praises the nation's artistic contributions. He candidly addresses contemporary political issues, urging for civic courage in the face of injustice, and asserts that cinema can inspire collective action.
Oct 30, 2025 • 11min
Creating innovation jobs in Ireland’s green economy
Margie McCarthy, Director of Research & Policy at the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, dives into the burgeoning innovation jobs in Ireland’s green economy. She discusses how a €100 million investment in publicly funded research drives technology development and market signals for job creation. Margie highlights the importance of retrofitting homes, tech cost reductions, and the role of district heating and data centre waste heat in sustainability. She also outlines exciting career opportunities across various sectors, from EV specialists to ecologists.
Oct 30, 2025 • 11min
President Trump meets Chinese President Xi Jinping
Scott Lucas, a Professor and political analyst at the Clinton Institute, dives into the recent Trump-Xi meeting, discussing its limited outcomes like tariff changes and strategic uncertainties surrounding Taiwan. He highlights the impact of Trump's antics on US-India relations and trade. Lucas also clarifies the differences in nuclear testing claims amid global tensions. Additionally, he touches on the ongoing situation in Gaza, highlighting the civilian casualties and fragile ceasefire, as well as the everyday consequences of the US government shutdown.
Oct 30, 2025 • 13min
Is the deposit return scheme a success or headache for people?
Josh Crosbie, a dedicated reporter, dives into the real-world impacts of the deposit return scheme. He discusses how the initiative has significantly reduced litter while boosting income for vulnerable collectors, transforming discarded items into cash. Listeners hear insights on the operational challenges and the positive engagement from communities, especially children. Crosbie also highlights ambitious future goals like enhancing app features for convenience and expanding accepted recyclables, painting a vivid picture of ongoing evolution in recycling efforts.
