The Last Word with Matt Cooper

Minister Heather Humphreys has briefed the cabinet on new regulations to ban the importation, breeding and sale of XL Bully Dogs. Dog Behaviourist Suzi Walsh and Veterinary Officer James Madden join Mario to discuss whether this is the correct solution.

Andy O'Donoghue, a technology expert and contributor, dives into the world of digital and Bluetooth radios as well as smart speakers. He highlights the charm of vintage-style radios with modern features, like the Roberts model, perfect as a gift. The conversation then shifts to the evolution of smart speakers like Google Nest Audio, emphasizing their sound quality and voice control. O'Donoghue also addresses challenges with online radio, including buffering issues, alongside comparisons of top digital radio options in the current tech landscape.

Sinéad Crowley joins Matt in the studio for this week's Culture Club and to discuss the release of her new book Author of A Maid on Fifth Avenue.Subscribe to The Ray Foley Podcast wherever you get your podcast!

Three Wagamama restaurants in Dublin have closed after receivers were appointed to the restaurants that are part of the Press Up Group.Ian Guider, columnist with the Business Post, joins The Last Word to discuss this and more in the business news.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Eoghan O'Mara Walsh, chief executive of the Irish Tourism Industry Confederation, spoke to Matt about calls for Government for the sector ahead of Budget 2025.To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.

Nationally syndicated columnist Cal Thomas and US Correspondent with the Business Post Marion McKeone joined Matt for The Last Word’s weekly US slot where Matt began by asking about the significance of the Pennsylvanian vote in November’s presidential election.Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the conversation.

Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor with the Irish Independent joined Matt to discuss how taxi fares are to rise by 9% in December. Will this lead to more people opting to stay at home instead of going out?Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the conversation.

Liam Gallagher has hit out at critics of his 'angelic tones', saying that 'imposters' are not welcome at the Oasis reunion shows. John Caddell and Dee Reddy join The Last Word to discuss this as well as news that Justin Timberlake will play two gigs in Ireland next year and more.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!

Driverless taxis have been operating in San Francisco since last August marking a significant milestone in the progress for autonomous vehicles.Elaine Burke, host of the For Tech's Sake podcast, was recently in the city and joins The Last Word to talk about her experience of being a passenger in a driverless car.Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.

Laura Kennedy joins Matt int eh studio to discuss her new book, Some of Our Parts.As a philosopher and author, Laura takes us through the complexities of the labels we place upon ourself and how we can navigate these.