Joining Claire this morning was Artistic Director and Co-Director of the Abbey Theatre, the National Theatre of Ireland Caitríona McLaughlin. Caitríona discussed her career path and the future for theatre in Ireland.

Peter Mandelson has been released on bail after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office yesterday. The former ambassador to the United States is being investigated over his friendship with convicted child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. 

For the latest on this Claire spoke to Financial Times Political Editor George Parker.

Appointed as CEO of the HSE in March 2023, Bernard Gloster is coming to the end of his tenure at the helm of the health service. Bernard joined Claire in studio this morning. 

What sort of a parent are you? Do you believe in ‘gentle parenting’ where your child is always right and never has to suffer consequences? Or are you strict with them, making sure that they know that ‘no means no’? Is there is a right way or a wrong way to bring up your children?

All to discuss with Iseult White, Psychotherapist and Author.

There has been an alarming spike in the number of young people ending up in hospital with spinal cord injuries and nerve damage linked to excessive nitrous oxide use. Our Chief Reporter Barry Whyte has been investigating. Barry, just how common is this?

We got an email from a listener asking a question that many households around the country are grappling with. 

The email says: My gas and electricity contract is coming to an end and it is so confusing to decide between the different providers. I’d really appreciate if you could have an expert on your show to give direction to consumers. So we’ve called in the cavalry Head of Communications at bonkers.ie Daragh Cassidy.

The debate over M50 tolls intensified following a 10-cent price increase for most vehicles that took effect on January 1st 2026.  Transport Infrastructure do say that 'demand management’ is part of the reason for any increases. But despite the increased tolls, drivers are actually spending more time per journey on the road than they did last year. 

To discuss further with Claire was Peadar Toibin is the the leader of Aontú and Policy Advisor to the Environmental Pillar Oisín Coghlan.

Dental care for your dog is a year-round necessity for their overall well-being. To talk through the importance of it is  Darragh O’Hanlon, veterinarian based in Nutgrove Veterinary Hospital.   

President Trump has said he will raise the new global tariff of 10%, imposed on Friday, to 15%, effective immediately.  This shift, in the wake of the US Surpeme Court ruling that Trump had breached his powers in setting tarrifs last year, has significant implications for global trade, EU competitiveness and Irish businesses exporting to The States.  

To discuss further was Chief Economist at the Institute of International and European affairs and Columnist with The Currency Dan O’Brien.

Claire was joined by author Dearbhla Mescal, who is here to talk about her book, ‘Finding Joy’...