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
Feb 24, 2026 • 23min
Bernard Gloster the outgoing CEO of the HSE
Appointed as CEO of the HSE in March 2023, Bernard Gloster is coming to the end of his tenure at the helm of the health service. Bernard joined Claire in studio this morning.
Feb 24, 2026 • 7min
Is there is a right way or a wrong way to bring up your children?
What sort of a parent are you? Do you believe in ‘gentle parenting’ where your child is always right and never has to suffer consequences? Or are you strict with them, making sure that they know that ‘no means no’? Is there is a right way or a wrong way to bring up your children?All to discuss with Iseult White, Psychotherapist and Author.
Feb 24, 2026 • 13min
"Nitrous Oxide abuse left me with severe nerve damage in my arms and legs"
There has been an alarming spike in the number of young people ending up in hospital with spinal cord injuries and nerve damage linked to excessive nitrous oxide use. Our Chief Reporter Barry Whyte has been investigating. Barry, just how common is this?
Feb 24, 2026 • 9min
What to consider when changing electricity providers?
We got an email from a listener asking a question that many households around the country are grappling with. The email says: My gas and electricity contract is coming to an end and it is so confusing to decide between the different providers. I’d really appreciate if you could have an expert on your show to give direction to consumers. So we’ve called in the cavalry Head of Communications at bonkers.ie Daragh Cassidy.
Feb 24, 2026 • 14min
The ongoing issue of congestion on the M50
The debate over M50 tolls intensified following a 10-cent price increase for most vehicles that took effect on January 1st 2026. Transport Infrastructure do say that 'demand management’ is part of the reason for any increases. But despite the increased tolls, drivers are actually spending more time per journey on the road than they did last year. To discuss further with Claire was Peadar Toibin is the the leader of Aontú and Policy Advisor to the Environmental Pillar Oisín Coghlan.
Feb 23, 2026 • 11min
Dental care for your dog is a year-round necessity
Dental care for your dog is a year-round necessity for their overall well-being. To talk through the importance of it is Darragh O’Hanlon, veterinarian based in Nutgrove Veterinary Hospital.
Feb 23, 2026 • 6min
Trump orders temporary 10% global tariff to replace duties struck down
President Trump has said he will raise the new global tariff of 10%, imposed on Friday, to 15%, effective immediately. This shift, in the wake of the US Surpeme Court ruling that Trump had breached his powers in setting tarrifs last year, has significant implications for global trade, EU competitiveness and Irish businesses exporting to The States. To discuss further was Chief Economist at the Institute of International and European affairs and Columnist with The Currency Dan O’Brien.
Feb 23, 2026 • 20min
Dearbhla Mescal on her new book 'Finding Joy'
Claire was joined by author Dearbhla Mescal, who is here to talk about her book, ‘Finding Joy’...
Feb 23, 2026 • 7min
Jessie Buckley wins big at the BAFTA's
Jessie Buckley made history when she became the first Irish woman to win the BAFTA for Best Actress. Henry McKean joined us from the banks of Thames.
Feb 23, 2026 • 10min
A look back on the weekend of sport!
To look back on the weekend of sport, Claire was joined in studio by Eoin Sheahan, from Off The Ball.
