Lunchtime Live

Donald Trump’s Oval Office clash with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the freezing of US military aid to Ukraine has led to a European focus on defence…

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, set out a broad proposal to ramp up European defense by as much as €800 billion.

Germany's likely next Chancellor, Friedrich Merz, has also proposed billions in new defence spending.

This all comes as debate stirs around Ireland’s neutrality and the ‘triple lock’ system, freeing up Irish troops to be deployed overseas.

As Europe prepares for war, what do you want Ireland's role to be in it?

To discuss, Andrea is joined by Gerard Craughwell, Independent Senator and former member of the Defence Forces, People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy, Declan Power, Security and Defence Analyst and more.

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, Andrea is joined by Singer and Songwriter, Ruthanne.

Ruthanne has spoken on the show before about her experience with endometriosis. She joins to discuss how life has been since, and the awareness around the condition.

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.

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

Image: Netflix

A preferred route for Cork's light rail is to be announced within weeks as the Transport Minister hopes to get the project to planning before the end of the year.

The project is expected to cost about €3 billion…

But, does Cork need it?

Joining Andrea to discuss is Ken O’Flynn, Independent Ireland TD for Cork, Stephan Koch, UCC Commuter Plan Manager, Joe Lawton, Bus Driver for Martin Twomey’s Coaches Cork & former Bus Éireann driver for 48 years and more.

Image: Cork City Council

Dr. Nina Byrnes, GP at Generation Health Medical Clinic is with Andrea to answer your questions. 

Today we’re focusing on adult ADHD diagnosis. So get your worries or questions answered here.

Sabrina Carpenter has quickly become one of the biggest names in pop music, and she plays two nights of her European ‘Short n’ Sweet’ Tour in Dublin.

Andrea speaks to all those caught up in ‘Sabrina-mania.’

Last week, Andrea spoke at length about the obstacles people face when they seek help for suicidal feelings.

This week, it was important to follow on and ask the question, is there enough help for people with suicidal thoughts in Ireland? 

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Contact Samaritans at 116 123 or Pieta at 1800 247 247 for free, confidential support 24/7.

How do we tackle an issue like school absenteeism? 

Fergus Finlay, Political Commentator, Irish Examiner Columnist & Former CEO of Barnardo's joins Andrea with a number of other guests to go through this rising problem.

Siobhan Berry, or @mummycooks on Instagram, joins Andrea to talk batch cooking snacks at home.

The Government recently announced it was going to make cabin homes in back gardens exempt from planning so that family members could live together on the same site. 

But news today from Revenue says homeowners who hope to take advantage of this could face an extra property tax bill.

Andrea speaks to all those affected by this potential backtracking.