Newstalk Weekend

Jeffrey Archer is the bestselling author behind Kane and Abel, and the William Warwick crime series that have been captivating readers for decades. At 85, Archer is preparing to write his final novel, capping a career that spans five decades, prison diaries, political highs, and global bestsellers in more than 100 countries. His latest book is called End Game - he joins Anton to discuss.

Rick Astley is one of the most recognizable and enduring pop singers of the 1980s whose career has spanned decades, with multiple chart-topping hits, and not to mention, being the progenitor of one of the most iconic internet memes of all time. He joins Anton in studio to talk about it all.

For this week's Ask the Expert, Anton is joined by Sarah Keogh, Dietitian and Founder of Eatwell.

International pressure and a concerted effort from Donald Trump have led to a ceasefire being reached between Israel and Hamas, but while some see it as the only path to ending civilian suffering, others argue it risks empowering Hamas and undermining Israel’s security. To discuss the prospects and politics of the ceasefire, Anton is joined by two voices at the heart of this debate - Alan Shatter, former Irish Minister for Justice, now on the board of the Israel Council on Foreign Relations and Chairperson of Magen David Adom Ireland & Dr Ofer Cassif, a member of the Knesset representing Hadash – the Democratic Front for Peace and Equality

MTV's owners have announced that they will close all their music stations worldwide, except for the US, with the advancement of streaming technology seemingly behind the decision. To discuss the move, Anton is joined by Larry Bass, founder and Chief Executive of Shinawil.

Joining Anton to go through the main stories from the Saturday papers is Tabitha Monahan, Political Reporter with the Irish Independent & Indo Daily Presenter & Danny McConnell, Editor with The Business Post.

After two years of conflict, a peace deal between Israel and Hamas is now in place, but questions remain about how lasting it will be with tensions remaining high across the region. Joining Anton to discuss is journalist Paul Kearns, who’s been reporting from Tel Aviv and following the response to the agreement.

From heated debates and surprise gaffes to questions over campaign spending and social media storms, the race for Áras an Uachtaráin hasn’t always been as dignified as the office itself. Joining Anton to look back on some of the more interesting campaigns are Flor MacCarthy & Lise Hand, co-hosts of 'Think You Know The Presidents?' Podcast.

Rising food, energy, and staff costs are squeezing restaurants and cafés across the country, with many operators warning their businesses are on the brink. As the Government weighs up cutting VAT for the sector in next week’s Budget, some see it as a vital lifeline, others as an expensive giveaway. To explore the reality behind the numbers, Anton is joined by Ross Lewis, founder of Chapter One and Chef Patron of Osteria Lucio.

As we mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Professor John Kennedy of the Trinity St James’s Cancer Institute warns cancer patients are being let down, with just 3 of 28 national targets met and thousands facing dangerous delays for tests and treatment. He joins Anton to discuss.