The Claire Byrne Show
Newstalk
Claire Byrne explores the big stories through the lens of real life.This podcast brings context, consequences and clarity to the issues shaping Ireland today.Covering politics and current affairs alongside the human stories behind them, Claire asks the questions people are thinking, but don’t always hear answered.From housing and health to work, family life, well-being and culture, you’ll hear smart, engaging discussion and moments of light relief - connecting the dots between what’s happening and what it means for you.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 27, 2026 • 10min
Is proportional representation the best system?
The Electoral Commission has been charged with looking at everything related to voting in Ireland and this week a bill was introduced in the Seanad to cap the number of TDs. But what about the way we vote? Is proportional representation the best system or should we try something a bit different? All to discuss with Newstalk's Political Correspondent and host of the Let Me Explain podcast, Seán Defoe.
Mar 27, 2026 • 11min
Son of Johnny Cash and June CarterJohn Carter Cash
Not everyone gets to be so proud of their parents that they can create a show based on their lives. But that is the case for the son of Johnny Cash and June Carter, John Carter Cash. The Ballad of Johnny and June is on in the Bord Gais from March 31st and runs until the 11th of April and John told Claire all about his inspiration for the show.
Mar 27, 2026 • 16min
Should be ban greyhound racing here?
Scotland and Wales have voted to ban greyhound racing. New Zealand is also taking steps to abolish the sport. Would you like to see Ireland follow suit? To discuss this further Claire was joined by Damian Matthews, Chairman of Irish Greyhound Owners and Breeders Federation and Nuala Donlon, Greyhound Action Ireland Spokesperson.
Mar 27, 2026 • 9min
Agony for Ireland after losing on penalties to Czechia in Prague
Agony for Ireland last night after losing on penalties to Czechia in Prague. After hitting the post twice in normal time, they came up short in the penalty shootout, losing 4-3. Our reporter Henry McKean was in the Fortuna Stadium and met deflated Irish fans and some relieved Czech fans. Also live from Prague was Eoin Sheahan from Off The Ball.
Mar 27, 2026 • 12min
Trump extends deadline for Iran to open strait of Hormuz by 10 days
President Trump has paused his plans to attacks Iran's energy plants. He claims talks are 'going well', though the Iranian’s don’t seem to agree. To get the latest on this Claire spoke to Sky News Foreign Correspondent Alistair Bunkall.
Mar 26, 2026 • 7min
Gardening advice with Gardener Marie Staunton
When it comes to your garden and trying to fill it out, should you stop thinking horizontally and start thinking vertically? Well to chat about this and answer listeners questions was Gardener, Marie Staunton.
Mar 26, 2026 • 6min
The best kid’s films of all time!
It’s often hard to find a film to suit the whole family. So if you’re looking for some inspiration on something everyone can enjoy, Presenter of Newstalk’s Screentime John Fardy has the answers.
Mar 26, 2026 • 9min
US and Iran standoff continues
US President Donald Trump has insisted that Iran is taking part in peace talks as he continues to push back on Tehran’s denials of being at the negotiating table. We get the latest on this with Simon Marks is Chief Correspondent of Feature Story News.
Mar 26, 2026 • 9min
Brian Kerr on Ireland's hopes this evening!
Former Ireland manager Brian Kerr chats to Claire ahead of the big game and discusses how the team will be preparing.
Mar 26, 2026 • 12min
Author and Screenwriter Derek Landy
Today is publication day for the latest instalment in the Skulduggery Pleasant series of books, A Soul Full of Shadows. Claire was joined in studio by the creator of the bestselling series, author and screenwriter, Derek Landy.
