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 5, 2026 • 9min
Why "sugar" isn't the only enemy of children's teeth
Did you know some children are biologically prone to dental issues, regardless of their diet or brushing routine? We tend to blame sugar and diet, but there are other "hidden" risk factors. To tell us more is Paediatric Dentist Dr Abigail Moore.
Mar 5, 2026 • 9min
Redevelopment of two Victorian houses in Phibsborough has been scrapped
The redevelopment of two Victorian houses in Phibsborough has been scrapped by Dublin City Council, due to excessive costs. To discuss this situation with Claire with Labour TD and Phibsborough resident, Marie Sherlock.
Mar 5, 2026 • 12min
Do you think you could be one of Ireland’s elite soldiers?
Do you think you could be one of Ireland’s elite soldiers? Well, you may get a chance to try. Niall O’Connor’s article in the journal this week reveals that Ireland’s Special Forces Unit, the Army Ranger Wing, may be considering recruiting from the public. To discuss what you’d need to succeed we heard from Former Army Ranger and Former Independent TD, Cathal Berry, and performance and wellness coach, John Belton.
Mar 5, 2026 • 13min
Why does Ireland not have a helicopter emergency team?
Could an Irish team of flying doctors increase the chances of more people surviving traumatic injuries? The Minister for Health was told this week that close to 150 lives in the last few years could have been saved if Ireland had a helicopter emergency team. Claire discusses this further with Dr Lisa Cunningham, Consultant in Emergency Medicine in the West of Ireland and a pre-hospital physical working in Helicopter Emergency Services in the UK.
Mar 5, 2026 • 10min
What are some of best music documentaries out there?
Ed Smith from Go Loud joined Claire in studio to chat about some of the best music documentaries out there.
Mar 5, 2026 • 13min
What exactly is involved in joining the Army, Air Corps and Navy?
you may have seen recruitment ads online and on TV for the Defence Forces. With everything going on in the world at the moment and following the Commission on the Defence Forces, it seems they’re serious about getting more young people into the job and increasing numbers. With Cadetship applications closing this Sunday the 8th of March, what exactly is involved in joining the Army, Air Corps and Navy? Our reporter Alex Rowley went to find out from those in training.
Mar 5, 2026 • 10min
The videos influencers in Dubai are now posting!
They are some of the people who want to leave the Gulf region. But despite the conflict raging in the middle east, many influencers in Dubai are now posting gushing videos on social media about how wonderful the UAE’s leadership is. So, why is this happening? Is the UAE really safe or is this propaganda? All to discuss with Human Rights Lawyer and Barrister, Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC.
Mar 5, 2026 • 4min
First flight back from Dubai since the Iran war started
There were tears of emotion as 384 passengers arrived home from Dubai last night. Emirates Flight EK 163 touched down at Dublin Airport at 10.45pm. The passengers were from Ireland and around the world. Many in transit to other destinations. Henry McKean met some of those passengers last night.
Mar 5, 2026 • 10min
Minister for Enterprise responds to heating oil and fuel price hikes
Representatives from the fuel industry have been called in to meet Minister for Enterprise tomorrow about price hikes since the conflict started in Iran last week. Speaking to Claire was Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment of Ireland Peter Burke.
Mar 4, 2026 • 10min
What Made Me: Irish Designer Helen Steele
Helen Steele is an award-winning Irish designer and artist. Her signature prints and bold use of colour have become part of the Irish fashion landscape, from her high-end pieces to her long-running collaboration with Dunnes Stores. Helen chatted to Claire about her life and road to fashion.
