The Hard Shoulder

The Grinch has stolen Christmas on tonight's Late Late Toy Show. But what are the big toys this Christmas? Henry McKean went backstage and met Patrick Kielty and visited the toy shop Nimble Fingers where it all started 50 years ago today…

Ireland has signed a formal agreement with Australia social media regulators to study its social media ban for under 16s. This comes after a recent study by the RCSI found that body dissatisfaction and sexting are strongly associated with poorer mental health and increased risk of self-harm among Irish teenagers.Joining Jonathan Healy to discuss is Irish Independent’s Tech Editor, Adrian Weckler.

Chef Louise Lennox and Mairead Carty are both parents in Greystones whose children are still awaiting school places, despite repeated calls for a change to the system, which they say is simply not working...  They join Jonathan Healy to discuss their situation.

Shifting demographics and mass migration to the eastern seaboard of the island represents an “existential threat” to the GAA.That’s the warning from National Demographics Committee chairman Benny Hurl who painted a concerning picture at the launch of the GAA’s report on the issue.With 78% of GAA clubs located in areas with “declining populations” this complex issue may spell trouble for the future of our national sports.Joining Jonathan Healy to discuss this is Jamesie O’Connor, former All Ireland winner with Clare and former GAA President, Nickey Brennan.

You may not have the time or energy to take care of a pet throughout the year, but what about offering temporary respite to an animal in need over the holidays?The newly formed National SPCA is launching it's annual fostering appeal to help clear out the shelters this festive season. Newstalk's Sarah Madden meets some of the good girls and boys looking for the gift of a foster home this Christmas.

Sarina Bellissimo, Broadcaster and Presenter of the Bellissimo Files Podcast and David O’Callaghan from the Here and Back Again podcast joined Ciara Doherty on The Hard Shoulder to review the latest TV and movie releases…

Ballet Dancer and Teacher, Monica Loughman, joins Ciara Doherty for this week’s Thursday Interview!

Israel will officially be allowed to participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. RTÉ has reaffirmed that they will not be taking part over Israel's participation.Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss the latest updates is Kirsty Blake Knox from the Irish Independent.

The Hard Shoulder is looking back on 2025’s biggest moments in the news, and who were at the heart of it.The situation in Gaza and all of Palestine has continued to dominate the headlines this year. How have things changed, and what does the future look like?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is Reham Mahdi Al Jarrah, Christian Aid Ireland’s Local Partner in Gaza, Women’s Affairs Centre.

You may have noticed those around you getting sick this winter season – maybe you have been sick yourself?So, what are your rights, especially as we’re being hit hard by the flu season?Caroline Reidy is Managing Director of The Hr Suite, and joins Ciara to discuss.