The Hard Shoulder

Every week for The Ultimate Guide on The Hard Shoulder, Fionn Davenport takes a closer look at some of the fantastic destinations to visit around the world.This week, Fionn joined Jonathan Healy to give his recommendations for Halloween festivals in Ireland!

Irish Olympic Swimmer Shane Ryan has announced he will take part in the controversial Enhances Games which next year will permit competitors to use performance enhancing drugs, like steroids, to gain advantage.Since his announcement, the Irish sporting world has criticised the decision including Swim Ireland who said they’re “disappointed” by the three-time Olympian’s decision.Joining Jonathan Healy to discuss is Chief Sport Writer at the Irish Daily Star Kieran Cunningham and David Nolan, who is an Assistant Professor of Sport and Exercise Science at DCU.

Aontú Leader Peadar Tóibín joins Jonathan Healy to place his favourite book on The Hard Shoulder Bookshelf!

The ceasefire in Gaza is under strain today, as Israeli Defence Force members have shot multiple civilians dead in Northern Gaza.Shows of intra-Palestinian violence also reign as Hamas have carried out public executions of suspected collaborators.So, will the ceasefire hold?Paul Kearns, Freelance Journalist in Tel Aviv joins Jonathan Healy to discuss.

Protein is not just a macronutrient, but now a buzz word in diet and health culture. You will have seen many foods focusing on being ‘high protein’ or ‘protein enhanced’. Is it simply the latest diet trend, or should you be stocking up on your protein powder?Joining Jonathan Healy to discuss is Shelly Gray, Today FM Presenter and Registered Dietitian.

Defective concrete blocks have resulted in many homeowners being forced out of their homes as it crumbles around them. The issue has persisted for a number of years, with many still fighting for appropriate support.Jonathan is joined by a homeowner impacted by defective concrete blocks, Marti McElhinney, and TD for the 100% Redress Party, Charles Ward to discuss.

Limerick City and County Councils are set to list all pet-friendly businesses and establishments.Which begs the question, should more spaces be dog-friendly, and is there a point in which we should draw the line on this?Freelance Journalist Andrea Smith joins Jonathan Healy to discuss.

Many of the big energy providers have hiked their prices in recent months. With many people already squeezed by the cost of living, some have suggested that a price cap should be implemented to stop what they see as price gouging… but would a price cap be a feasible or effective solution?Joining Jonathan Healy to discuss is Economist and former Political Analyst David Higgins and Sinn Féin MEP, Lynn Boylan.

Fianna Fáil Cllr Audrey Buckley has said that hospital staff and Gardaí need to take greater action in incidents of suspected spiking, following an incident involving a family member of the local politician.But, what are the protocols currently in place if a person presents to an emergency department?Joining guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss is Dr Chris Luke, Consultant in Emergency Medicine and Columnist with the Irish Medical Times and Faye Ní Dhomhnaill, Vice President for Campaigns - Aontas na Mac Léinn in Éirinn.

This year's Dublin City Marathon is only a week away, and joining guest host Jonathan Healy to discuss is Mary Nolan Hickey, the only woman to run every Dublin City Marathon since it started in 1980…