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, as part of his 12 best cities in the world, Fionn joined Ciara Doherty to give the ultimate guide to Istanbul in Turkey!

A University of Oregon study has found that playing board games can provide lasting benefits for brain function and development, improving numerical skills in children.Joining Ciara to discuss is Niamh O’Meara, Lecturer in Maths Education and Deputy Director of EPISTEM and Clare Moriarty, Post-Doctoral Researcher at Trinity College Dublin.

Hopes for a Katie Taylor fight in Croke Park have been reignited again today. The world champion boxer says she would love to have the opportunity to fight in the historic stadium.Newstalk Reporter Josh Crosbie has been speaking with those involved in boxing to find out what chances we have to witness a potential bout. He joins Ciara to discuss.

Movie Critic and Entertainment Journalist Brian Lloyd joined Ciara Doherty to place his favourite book on The Hard Shoulder Bookshelf!

Comedian and actor Russell Brand has appeared at Westminster Magistrates' court in the UK today over fresh sexual offences allegations, including rape. The two alleged offences took place in London in 2009, according to court documents.Joining Ciara to discuss the latest on this is London-based journalist, Vincent McAviney.

Earlier today, the Minister for Children Norma Foley presented plans to Cabinet to buy buildings that will provide childcare facilities. This is part of a new plan to create State-led early learning centres.Each building will deliver more than 100 places, with up to 800 places available by early 2027.This is all part of the Government’s promise to deliver €200 a month childcare within its five-year term.But, will it solve the childcare issues of funding and staff retention?To discuss, Ciara is joined by Elaine Dunne, Chair of the Federation of Early Childhood Providers and Noel Mulderrig, Co-Owner of Kidz Haven Creche, Shannon, Co. Clare.

With so much conflicting information online and a variety of new products constantly gaining popularity, when it comes to skincare, are any of these trends having a positive impact on our skin?Joining Ciara to discuss is The Skin Nerd, Jennifer Rock owner of an online skin consultation service and her own skincare brand, skingredients.Image: Shark

After much speculation, Brooklyn Beckham last night addressed the rumors of an ongoing feud among his family, accusing his parents of attempting to ruin his relationship with his wife Nicola Peltz Beckham, attacking them in the media and claiming they have always been controlling.But, is there any way back for the Beckhams, despite Brooklyn saying he does not want to "reconcile" with them?Joining Ciara to discuss is Entertainment Journalist, Olivia Fahy and Michelle Brown, who specialises in family mediation and divorce.

New research has shown that almost half of Irish people are unsure whether their home insurance covers winter emergencies such as flooding, but what exactly should you be looking for when you insure your house, and are you overpaying?Joining Ciara to discuss this is Sinead Ryan, Consumer Journalist and presenter of the Home Show on Newstalk.

With all the controversy surrounding Donald Trump’s push to seize Greenland, there have been some who suggest that heading to the White House on St Patrick’s Day might present a difficult decision for the Taoiseach. That’s despite Micheál Martin dismissing any concern that the annual trip is in jeopardy.In fact, Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary told the show last week that it might be a good thing for Ireland…So, should the ceremony be skipped?Joining Ciara to discuss is Emma DeSouza, Irish Writer and Political Commentator and Dan Mulhall, former Irish Ambassador to the United States.