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 24, 2026 • 23min
The coalition has made its decisions on fuel relief
Coalition leaders met last night to sign-off on the government’s emergency fuel supports to combat the rising costs faced by Irish consumers. To chat about the details of this package and what it all means, Claire spoke to Political Correspondent with The Irish Independent, Conal Thomas. Also byPresident of the Irish Road Haulage Association, Ger Hyland and CEO of Fuels for Ireland, Kevin McPartlan.
Mar 23, 2026 • 8min
Keeping chocolate away from your dog!
With Easter just around the corner and more chocolate in the house, there is always a fear of your dog eating some that falls to the ground, so how concerned should you be, and what can you do if it happens? To discuss this and more, Claire was joined by Vet Darragh O’Hanlon, who you can find on social media at TheTopicalVet.
Mar 23, 2026 • 10min
What happens to cremated ashes?
Cremation is on the increase in Ireland with more people than ever choosing it over traditional burial. In some urban centres, 50% of funerals are handled by crematoriums. But a new problem has emerged, where some families are not collecting the ashes and funeral directors are left with the dilemma of what to do with the abandoned urns. Claire discusses this with Colm Kieran is founder of My Funeral Wishes, and funeral planning business.
Mar 23, 2026 • 12min
A look back on a weekend of sport!
A look back on a busy weekend of sport with Eoin Sheahan from Off The Ball.
Mar 23, 2026 • 7min
Six households in a retirement village in Sligo face eviction
Six households in a retirement village in Sligo were given eviction notices last November and tenants were told they’d have to leave the houses by June this year. Now concerns have been raised for some of the residents who are dealing with serious medical conditions. Speaking to Claire this morning was Sligo Labour Senator, Nessa Cosgrove.
Mar 23, 2026 • 9min
What actually is a healthy diet?
Every week we hear about new diets that are better for our health. New ways to eat that will mean we live longer and healthier lives. But with all of this constant information, how do we know what is really good for us? All to discuss with Dietician Shelly Gray.
Mar 23, 2026 • 13min
What is it like to be young and an alcoholic in Ireland?
When we think of an alcoholic, we usually think of someone well into their adult years. But what is it like to be young and an alcoholic in Ireland? Claire spoke to two young people who are in recovery.
Mar 23, 2026 • 10min
Fundraising for Children’s Health Ireland
Claire was joined on the show by Saoirse and her mum Stella. Saoirse as a baby was diagnosed with has Alport syndrome, a rare hereditary kidney condition. Since then, Saoirse’s life has revolved around hospital appointments and protecting her kidney function under the care of Children’s Health Ireland at Temple Street.Stella told Claire about her treatment and how fundraising is needed for the vital work of Children's Health Ireland.
Mar 23, 2026 • 10min
Some great holiday inspiration for you!
If the lovely weather over the weekend got you craving the sun, then listen up, because we have some great holiday inspiration for you... Claire chatted to Travel Journalist Ed Finn from Ed Finn Travels.
Mar 23, 2026 • 8min
Earth’s climate is swinging increasingly out of balance
Experts are warning that new coastal defences and emergency evacuation processes are needed to prepare Ireland for the worst consequences of climate change. To discuss this further Claire was joined on the show by Environmental Scientist Dr Tara Shine.
