The Hard Shoulder

A recent document from the Department of Finance raises concerns about the €400 tax exemption for solar panel owners selling excess energy, set to expire soon. The discussion delves into how government policies might hinder the adoption of green technologies like electric vehicles and solar panels. Furthermore, the podcast highlights the complex relationship between carbon tax revenues and funding for renewable initiatives, questioning future public support for sustainability if financial incentives dwindle.

Former President Mary McAleese has criticized Pope Leo’s first 100 days in the papacy, saying it's been “too conservative”. She has questioned whether he is as committed to Pope Francis’ reforms – but, is 100 days too early to judge?Joining Kieran to discuss is David Quinn, Columnist with the Sunday Independent and Irish Catholic and Gina Menzies, a Theologian.

Navigating tenant rights can be tricky, especially with recent legislative changes. The discussion highlights essential rights such as privacy and property standards. Many renters remain unaware of their protections, making organizations like Threshold vital for support. Legal experts shed light on common challenges, including tenancy termination and dispute resolution. Listeners learn how to advocate for their rights and understand the evolving landscape of renting in Ireland.

The ASTI has warned that if the planned reforms to the Leaving Certificate go ahead, they may go on strike with their over 20 thousand members. This issue stems from questions about facility quality and fears about generative AI.Joining Kieran to outline the issues, and explain their reasoning is the President of the ASTI and practical teacher Padraig Curley.

A video of a 19-year-old Australian male athlete breaking down in tears has gone viral on social media. The Australian, Archie Wilson, is playing college football in the U.S. state of Nebraska. After a match last week, he was asked by a reporter what it’s like to be away from his family and that’s when he broke down, missing his family.While most of the reaction was supportive and people felt for the young man living away from home, he also received negative comments questioning his masculinity.To discuss the stigma around men being vulnerable and crying, Kieran is joined by former Munster and Irish Rugby International and Mental Health Advocate, Alan Quinlan, Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Tara Logan Buckley, and Newstalk Reporter, Dylan Hand.

This week, Kieran Cuddihy was joined by the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis and Off the Ball’s Ger Gilroy to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…

As party campaigns kick off, The Hard Shoulder’s series learning more about the history of the presidential office continues.Patrick Geoghegan, Director of the Trinity Long Room Hub, Trinity’s Arts and Humanities Research Institute, and Presenter of Talking History joins Kieran to look back the candidates who received support from county council to become president of Ireland.

Reports are coming in this Friday eve of Oasis fever gripping the country!But, as the capital prepares for the big gigs this weekend in Croker, the question remains: “Which one do you prefer, Oasis or Blur?”.Father Damo AKA Comedian Joe Rooney are here in the studio as well as Micheal Doyle, Journalist with the Irish Sun.

Aisling Larkin, Mindful Eating Coach and TV Chef joins Kieran Cuddihy to discuss strawberries - and how they can be used in multiple delicious recipes!

Off The Ball's Eoin Sheahan joined Kieran Cuddihy on The Hard Shoulder to review the week in sport and look ahead to the weekend action.