Lunchtime Live

The World Health Organisation has warned that Ireland is on track to become Europe’s most obese nation, yet this warning may impact some more than others.  

Research has shown that body weight and health behaviors follow a pattern – one with a clear social gradient.  

As Danielle Barron, Health and Medical Journalist, writes: “when worrying about bills or rent, you’re not in salad mode.”  

She joined Andrea to explain her argument aswell as John Loy, Consultant Surgeon Head of Bariatric Unit at Auralia, Eoin Dolan, Principal of Mother of Divine Grace National School in Finglas  and listeners giving their opinion on the matter.

The BBC has received complaints after it started airing the Irish version of The Traitors, with viewers appalled by the language used by competitors!

With swearing being commonplace among the contestants in the Irish version of the show last year.

So do we have a tendency to curse a bit to much, and is it a problem ?

To discuss, Andrea was joined by Eamon O Keeffe – Irish Traitor, Esther McCarthy - Irish Examiner Life/Style Editor and Chris a English Listener who lives in Ireland.

We’ve decided to do a deep dive on some of our favourite albums to explore the stories behind them.

What did the artists really think of each other? Where did the inspirations from the songs come from?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Head Tour Guide at the Irish Rock ‘N’ Roll Museum Experience, Alan Buckley, who’s going to talk through The making of Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Born to Run’

For decades, voters have flocked to local national schools on polling days. From general and presidential elections to local and European contests, the use of school buildings as polling stations has become routine—much to the delight of pupils and teachers who often enjoy a day off as a result.

However, concerns are now being raised in Cork about the disruption caused to early education. The county sheriff is being urged to identify alternative polling venues, as an inordinate number of national schools continue to be used for voting purposes.

Andrea was joined by Joel Loftus, Principal of St. Attracta's National School in Roscommon, Siobhan O’Neill Whyte from Mams.ie, Fine Gael councillor representing the Carrigaline LEA in Cork and teacher, Una McCarth aswell as listeners to discuss whether schools should still be used as polling stations

An inquest has found that heading the football likely contributed to Gordon McQueen’s brain disease. The footballer died in 2023 aged 70, having been diagnosed with vascular dementia.

Studies have also shown that footballers are 3.5 times more likely to die from neurodegenerative disease than the general public, which often stem from trauma received during childhood while playing the sport.  

This begs the question – should heading be banned from football?  

Andrea was joined by Dr Lisa Ryan, Head of School of Health, sports science and nutrition at Atlantic Technological University, David Wilson from off the ball and Jen Hogan  features journalist with the Irish Times

Lunchtime Live's Reasons to be Happy looks at some of the news stories that you might have missed that will leave you feeling more optimistic.

98FM’s Cathal O’Sullivan joined Andrea in the studio to put a smile on your faces…

Many parts of the country have been impacted by heavy rainfall after Storm Chandra hit the East of the Country this week.  

With many parts of Dublin, Wexford and Wicklow being some of the places most impacted, Andrea chatted  to some of the people whose homes and businesses have been badly impacted. And to ask what needs to change to prevent flooding in the country?  

Sex and intimacy are a big part of our lives, but for many people, they’re also a source of worry, confusion, or silence, especially after having a baby.  

Andrea was joined by Psychosexual Therapist, Meg Fitzgerald, to talk about psychosexual therapy—what it is, who it’s for, and how it helps people navigate sexual and relationship difficulties in a safe, supportive way.

“I won’t lie. It was a relief when Mum finally went into a nursing home. There’s such joy in simply visiting her now, for a cup of tea and a chat.”  

So writes Sinead Ryan, Host of The Home Show here on Newstalk and journalist with the Independent and Sunday Independent.  She joined Andrea to explain the relief she felt when her mother moved into a care home. And how after exploring many different care options, she found a care home was best suited to her needs.

A survey carried out by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has found that 9 in 10 consumers tip sometimes, but two-thirds believe tipping in Ireland is becoming less voluntary, with 3 in 4 believing opting out of tipping should be made easier.

The CCPC has issued new guidelines for businesses on tipping, including tipping terminals being easily avoidable at checkout by being kept separate and being clearly labelled. The new guidelines come as nearly half a million euro is spent every year on accidental tips paid through contactless payments.

Andrea spoke to CEO of Dublin Barista School James McCormack,  James Fahy, Co-Founder of JustTip, Hairdressing Group Owner Terence, Olivia, who has worked in hospitality and  Ian O’Doherty, Columnist with the Irish Independent whether they feel pressured to tip.