The Pat Kenny Show

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk, host Pat Kenny interviews renowned musician Sharon Shannon. The conversation begins with a somber reflection on the recent passing of legendary musician Donal Lunny, with Shannon sharing her personal memories of his musical influence and his pivotal role in developing the Irish bouzouki. Shannon also discusses her upcoming Lifetime Achievement Award at the Concert Hall and her new instrumental album titled 'Home'. The interview concludes with a live performance by Shannon on the button accordion, playing a tribute to Donal Lunny.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews veteran French correspondent John Litchfield regarding the recent wave of civil unrest and riots in France. The discussion covers the destruction caused by both far-left groups and opportunistic looters, the government's response under President Emmanuel Macron, and the underlying socio-economic tensions driving the instability. The conversation delves into deeper structural issues within France, such as the strain on the education and health budgets due to the high cost of teacher pensions. Litchfield also highlights the potential for further violence during political gatherings, specifically mentioning the risk of flashpoints at Marine Le Pen's national conference in Orléans.

Executive Chef Gareth Mullins of Anantara The Marker Hotel joins Pat Kenny to share wholesome baking recipes perfect for the Halloween season. The episode features a tutorial on making colorful, multi-toned cupcakes using a specific buttercream piping technique to create a ripple effect for children. Additionally, Mullins provides a detailed recipe for traditional Irish barnbrack, discussing the historical significance of including small trinkets like coins or rings within the cake. The segment offers practical culinary advice for seasonal baking and slow-cooked autumnal treats.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews Mick Clifford about his new book, There I Long To Be, subtitled Life Through a GAA Lens. Clifford explores the profound cultural and personal impact of Gaelic football, tracing his journey from being born in Galway to growing up in the deep-rooted footballing traditions of South Kerry. The conversation delves into the changing landscape of the GAA, discussing the challenges of rural depopulation, the necessity of club amalgamations, and the rise of massive urban super-clubs like Na Fianna. Clifford also reflects on historical moments, such as the impact of Rule 27 and the legendary status of players like Mick O'Connell, while offering a perspective on the growing importance of the women's game.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, planning expert Conor Skihan discusses the decline and revitalization challenges of Dublin's O'Connell Street, arguing that improvements must focus on urban connectivity and entry points rather than just central landmarks. The discussion further explores the complexities of Dublin's urban planning, touching on e-scooter regulation, social housing, and infrastructure. The speakers critique current transportation policies, suggesting that dogmatic idealism in planning often lacks the necessary underlying infrastructure to support new developments.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews Maurice Cohen, chairman of the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland, regarding the sudden cancellation of an international anti-Semitism conference at the Herbert Park Hotel in Dublin. Cohen details the circumstances surrounding the hotel's decision to release room bookings and refuse the event, noting a shift in tone after questions were raised regarding the involvement of the IDF. The discussion explores broader themes of rising anti-Semitism, the impact of political rhetoric on the Jewish community in Ireland and the UK, and the changing demographic landscape of Irish Jewry.

As Israel prepares for upcoming elections, the political landscape reveals a profound lack of support for a two-state solution across the Knesset spectrum. This episode explores whether opposition to Palestinian statehood is unique to Benjamin Netanyahu or represents a broader Israeli political consensus. Featuring insights from Sky News Middle East correspondent Adam Parsons, the discussion covers the implications of recent violence in the West Bank, the shifting dynamics of US-Israel relations in light of potential US midterm results, and the complex arithmetic of forming a new coalition government.

Journalist Vincent Brown discusses his new biography of Charles Haughey, exploring the former Taoiseach's complex personal history and political career. The conversation covers Haughey's early life, his involvement in the arms crisis, and the mysterious origins of his significant wealth. The episode also examines Haughey's political legacy and economic impact alongside figures like Ray McSharry and Alan Dukes. Additionally, the discussion delves into his private complexities, including his relationship with Terry Keane and his final years.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the high-stakes Serbian elections, examining whether a student-led movement can successfully challenge the long-standing dominance of President Aleksandar Vucic. Former UN diplomat Gareth Patrick Kelly discusses the rise of recent protests fueled by corruption scandals, specifically the tragic Novi Sad railway station disaster, and the strategic decision by student activists to run a list of candidates without traditional political affiliations. The discussion covers the complexities of the Serbian electorate, the influence of state-controlled media, and the potential implications for stability in the Western Balkans.

Pat Kenny and guest Kevin Doyle review the morning's headlines, analyzing recent political polling trends, budget dissatisfaction, and developments in the housing market. The discussion also critiques the rising costs of a new maternity hospital and addresses various political controversies. The episode further explores issues regarding hospital facilities, recent scandals involving Geoffrey Donaldson, and Ryan Tubridy's potential political ambitions. Additionally, the speakers examine public backlash against RSA and government advertising campaigns, specifically focusing on the debate surrounding a controversial hugging advertisement.

In this episode of The Divided States of America, host Pat Kenny explores the shifting landscape of US-Ukraine relations and the strategic consequences of recent diplomatic actions. Featuring an interview with former White House advisor Brett Bruin, the discussion examines the impact of the Trump administration's policies on American international standing and the potential for increased geopolitical instability in the Middle East. The episode also analyzes the dynamics of US midterm elections, covering controversial campaign tactics in Ohio, Michigan, and Iowa. The discussion extends to high-stakes Senate races in Kansas and Texas, highlighting the influence of major donors like Elon Musk on modern political landscapes.

This episode features an interview with Emmanuel Shaz of France 24, reporting from Ukraine. The discussion focuses on the geopolitical implications of Donald Trump's recent stance regarding the war in Ukraine and his apparent alignment with Vladimir Putin's interests. The reporter details the dire situation on the ground, including incessant power cuts due to Russian strikes on energy infrastructure and the increasing difficulty of air defense without the full functionality of the Starshield system. The conversation also covers the humanitarian crisis facing Ukrainian citizens as winter approaches, the impact of Russian drone technology on civilian buildings, and the resilience of the Ukrainian people. Despite the exhaustion caused by years of war and the perceived betrayal by a key American ally, the report emphasizes that Ukrainians remain determined to maintain their sovereignty and territorial integrity.

A Sunday morning news review covering significant political and social developments in Ireland and abroad. The discussion features an analysis of Minister Helen McEntee's refusal to resign amidst controversy regarding protected disclosures, and the health-related absence of Minister Patrick O'Donovan. The program also examines the escalating public sector pay dispute, the potential impact of AI on civil service roles, and widespread protests in France. Additional topics include the financial difficulties facing RTÉ, the removal of Sally Rooney's books from shelves by Faber and Faber due to Palestine Action, and updates regarding the criminal case of Geoffrey Donaldson. The episode provides a comprehensive look at current headlines ranging from domestic governance to international unrest.

Sal Grover, founder of the women-only app Giggle for Girls, discusses her experience with legal battles regarding sex-based rights and gender identity discrimination in Australia. She details the origins of her app, the subsequent litigation brought by the Australian Human Rights Commission, and her views on the impact of legislative changes on women's spaces. The conversation further explores the distinction between biological sex and gender identity, arguing that while personal expression is acceptable, redefining sex is a mistake. The discussion focuses on the perceived impact of these ideologies on fundamental rights such as freedom of speech and freedom of association.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews Daryl Henley Rooney, the curator of the Little Museum of Dublin, about a new exhibition titled 'Born in Dublin, 200 Years of the Coombe'. The exhibition explores the history of the Coombe Hospital, tracing its origins back to a tragic snowstorm in 1825 that led to the establishment of a dedicated maternity institution. The conversation covers significant medical milestones, including the hospital's role in pioneering ultrasound technology and the evolution of maternal care from community-based midwifery to modern clinical practices. The exhibition also highlights historical artifacts, such as a century-old birthing mannequin and early pharmacological recipes, while acknowledging the profound impact the hospital has had on Dublin's history.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, renowned chef Mark Moriarty discusses his multifaceted career and the launch of his new studio in Wilton Park, Dublin. Moriarty details how his unique space functions simultaneously as a working creative studio for TV and podcast production, a corporate event venue, and an exclusive restaurant that operates only one day a week. He shares insights into managing a global brand, including his partnership with The Dead Rabbit in New York, and discusses the release of his new cookbook, Everyday Delicious. The conversation also covers Moriarty's approach to hospitality, emphasizing that guest experience and service are just as vital as the food itself. He touches upon the practicalities of home cooking, essential kitchen equipment, and the importance of maintaining culinary skills through diverse kitchen experiences.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews author David Hare about his new book and TV series, 'Legacy,' which documents 32 national historic properties in Ireland managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). The conversation explores the history, preservation, and fascinating anecdotes associated with these architectural gems. The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including the duel involving Daniel O'Connell, the historical significance of Áras an Uachtaráin, and the preservation of symbols from the old regime in Dublin Castle. Hare also shares stories about JFK's visit to Arbour Hill, the shared history at the Battle of the Boyne site, and the poignant legacy of St. Enda's School.

Journalist Paul Cullen explores the massive cost overruns and historical complexities surrounding the National Children's Hospital project. The discussion traces the decision-making process from the 1990s to the current site selection at St. James's, highlighting how design choices, institutional rivalries, and procurement issues contributed to a multi-billion euro budget. The episode further examines mismanagement in construction methodologies, specifically regarding contractors like BAM, and the impact of delays on patient access. The conversation addresses the broader implications of resource allocation, critiquing the efficiency of the Irish Civil Service and the opportunity costs associated with the project's escalating expenses.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, Professor Luke O'Neill discusses groundbreaking advancements in neuroscience and public health. The conversation begins with the Nobel Prize-winning technology involving light-activated neurons, a method derived from algae that allows scientists to manipulate brain activity in living animals to study conditions like epilepsy and vision loss. The discussion then shifts to the complex process of transplanting human brain organoids, grown from reprogrammed skin cells, into mice to model diseases such as cerebral palsy. The second half of the program addresses the rising global threat of measles outbreaks, specifically focusing on recent developments in the United States. Professor O'Neill analyzes a press conference involving US health officials and discusses the implications of declining vaccination rates for international travel and herd immunity in Ireland. The episode explores the medical necessity of vaccines to prevent severe complications like deafness and blindness.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the escalating crisis of drug-related intimidation and violence in Ireland, following a tragic arson attack in Waterford that claimed the lives of four members of the English family. Crime Editor Stephen Breen provides an in-depth analysis of how criminal networks utilize expendable individuals to enforce drug debts through methods such as arson, assault, and social media threats. The discussion highlights findings from the DRIVE project, noting that over a thousand cases of intimidation have been recorded across every county in Ireland. The episode examines the mechanics of debt collection by local gangs, the impact of cocaine-induced bravado on criminal recklessness, and the availability of confidential support services for families living in fear.

An exploration of the enduring mystery surrounding the disappearance of aviation pioneer Amelia Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan. The episode revisits historical newsreel footage from 1932 and 1937, detailing Earhart's record-breaking transatlantic flight and her ill-fated attempt to circumnavigate the globe. Featuring retired Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Byrne, the discussion examines various theories regarding the disappearance over the Pacific Ocean, including the possibility of running out of fuel, missing Howland Island, or a plane ditching at sea. The conversation also addresses modern investigations into potential wreckage on Nikumaroro island and evaluates the validity of recent claims involving aircraft debris and unusual biological factors like giant coconut crabs.

Executive Chef Gareth Mullins joins The Pat Kenny Show to share classic, old-school recipes perfect for cooler weather. The episode features detailed instructions for preparing a traditional beef stroganoff using beef fillet and brandy, as well as a creamy chicken alla king featuring a roux-based sauce with mushrooms and red peppers. Mullins provides professional culinary tips on searing meat, managing flambéing with brandy, and achieving the correct sauce consistency.

Pat Kenny introduces 'The Divided States of America,' an exploration of the political and social fractures within the United States, ranging from the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. to modern-day tensions involving ICE and Trump's rhetoric. The episode examines strategies used to cast doubt on election integrity, the influence of new media and big money, and the impact of voter roll purges. Additionally, Richard Haass discusses the strategic consequences of U.S. foreign policy regarding Russia, Ukraine, and Iran. The conversation highlights a pattern of deference toward Putin and the decline of expertise within the State Department as the administration shifts from professional diplomats to business-minded amateurs.

An exploration of the history of Tin Pan Alley and the 1931 classic song 'Walking My Baby Back Home'. The episode delves into the origins of Manhattan's songwriting district, explaining how the proximity of musicians in the Flower District led to the creation of a musical hub characterized by the cacophony of cheap pianos. The discussion covers the collaborative work of lyricist Roy Turk and composer Fred E. Albert, highlighting their contributions to jazz standards and pop hits. The segment also traces the various notable covers of 'Walking My Baby Back Home', from Nat King Cole's 1952 version to James Taylor's 1997 recording, reflecting on the enduring appeal of courtship rituals and era-specific decorum.

In this interview, author and academic Randa Abdel Fattah discusses her personal background as a Palestinian-Egyptian Australian and the themes of institutional racism in her new novel, Discipline. She addresses controversies surrounding her views on the October 7th attacks, critiques the media's handling of the Gaza conflict, and discusses the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Palestine. The interview further explores the political and personal dimensions of the Palestinian struggle, discussing the shift in global discourse and the necessity of tangible actions like sanctions over mere words. The speaker also shares a deeply personal account of visiting their father's ancestral lands and expresses a vision for a decolonized, equal Palestine.

Author Martina Devlin joins Pat Kenny to discuss her new novel, Glorious Monsters. The book explores the lives of the Shelley circle in the early 19th century, featuring figures such as Lord Byron, Percy Shelley, and Mary Shelley, alongside the narrator Amelia Curran. The narrative weaves together historical connections between the radical poets of the Romantic era and the tragic 16th-century story of Beatrice Cenci. The discussion delves into the social constraints faced by women artists of the period, the scandalous lifestyle of the Shelleys in Italy, and the literary legacy of Mary Shelley. Devlin also highlights the historical significance of Amelia Curran, an amateur artist whose work is preserved in the National Portrait Gallery.

Crime journalist Paul Williams joins Pat Kenny to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB). The discussion traces the agency's origins back to the summer of 1996, following the high-profile murder of investigative journalist Veronica Guerin. Williams details how the assassination of Guerin provided the political impetus to establish a multidisciplinary law enforcement body capable of targeting the financial foundations of organized crime. The episode explores the evolution of Irish criminal justice, moving from a period where gangsters could operate with relative impunity to the implementation of draconian legislation like the Proceeds of Crime Act. Key themes include the shift in the burden of proof to a civil standard, the integration of various state agencies such as Revenue and Social Welfare, and the legal challenges brought against the Bureau's constitutionality.

In this edition of The Pat Kenny Show on Newstalk, host Pat Kenny and columnist Martina Devlin review the Sunday morning headlines. The discussion covers a wide range of political and social issues, including the political future of Minister Patrick O'Donovan amidst coalition tensions, budget concerns regarding RTÉ funding, and the potential for industrial action in the public sector. The conversation also touches upon the legal complexities surrounding the Parades Commission in Northern Ireland, Michael D's housing concerns in Galway, and international news such as the US criminal justice system and the evolving debate over Brexit in the UK.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, author and satirist Paul Howard discusses his new novel, A Nation Once Again, which explores the complex and often absurd prospect of Irish reunification. Drawing inspiration from Spike Milligan's satire, Howard examines the logistical and cultural challenges of uniting North and South, including potential compromises on flags, anthems, and policing. The conversation also touches upon Howard's famous creation, Ross O'Carroll Kelly, his transition into television writing, and his observations on the enduring culture of Dublin school rugby.

Professor Luke O'Neill, Professor of Biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin, joins Pat Kenney to discuss recent reports of a suspected plague case in Irkutsk, Russia. The discussion covers the biological characteristics of Yersinia pestis, distinguishing between bubonic and pneumonic plague, and examines the potential for lab-related accidents versus offensive biological weapons programs. The conversation also touches upon historical instances of biological warfare, such as the use of smallpox-infested blankets, and concludes with a brief look at current measles epidemics in the United States.

In this episode of Newstalk with Bobby Kerr, former Leinster and Ireland rugby player Gordon Darcy joins the show to discuss his transition from professional athlete to writer and entrepreneur. Darcy reflects on his rugby career, including his time playing alongside Brian O'Driscoll, the challenges of retiring from professional sport, and his decision to pursue higher education later in life. The conversation also covers the current state of Leinster Rugby, the impact of their move back to the RDS, and the legacy left by coach Leo Cullen. Darcy shares insights into his creative pursuits in writing for the Irish Times and his involvement in family business ventures, offering a perspective on finding balance and building multiple pillars of identity beyond the rugby pitch.

The Pat Kenny Show explores the political and economic implications of a recent deal involving the importation of Russian oil and diesel into the United States. Host Pat Kenny and Professor of Politics Dr. Donal Delaney discuss whether the move is a strategic maneuver to lower fuel prices ahead of the November midterms or a legally questionable pact that undermines support for Ukraine and European interests. The conversation examines the potential impact on Trump's core support base, the legality regarding the Ending Importation of Russian Oil Act of 2022, and the logistical feasibility of Russia meeting such supply demands amidst ongoing Ukrainian attacks on Russian refineries.

Professor Martin Curley, Director of Digital Health Ecosystems at Maynooth University, discusses the 'Mission 10X' initiative, a strategic moonshot aimed at transforming Ireland into a global leader in digital health. The project proposes moving healthcare from hospital-centric models to home-based care through a decentralized digital spine and mobile technology. Curley highlights the inefficiencies of current health systems, noting that despite increased spending and staffing, productivity remains stagnant. By leveraging 'Open Innovation 2.0' and a leapfrog strategy, the initiative seeks to implement remote monitoring and electronic health records that empower patients and clinicians alike, potentially offering a scalable model for global export.

Executive Chef Gareth Mullins joins The Pat Kenny Show to discuss the nuances of professional sports nutrition, debunking the myth that elite athletes consume only plain chicken and pasta. Drawing from his experience cooking for teams like the All Blacks and Barcelona, Mullins shares recipes designed for flavor and performance, focusing on balanced proteins and carbohydrates. The episode features detailed instructions for preparing a hearty spaghetti bolognese using a traditional sofrito base, a flavorful chicken and beef fajita blend with homemade spice mixes, and a no-cook energy bar composed of oats, dried fruits, and peanut butter. The discussion highlights the importance of healthy fats like olive oil and the role of slow-release carbohydrates in athletic training.

Pat Kenny interviews Shane Nolan, CEO of Leinster Rugby, at the Ley Arena at the RDS to mark the club's return to their home ground. The discussion covers the significant 52 million euro refurbishment of the arena, which includes an increased capacity of 20,600 and improved viewing angles for fans. Nolan details the complexities of managing a dual mandate for both professional and amateur rugby, the financial discipline required to run a not-for-profit organization, and the logistical challenges of a stadium that must be modified for the annual horse show. The episode also touches upon Leinster's recent competitive successes in the URC, the club's ambitions in the Champions Cup, and the upcoming search for a new head coach following Leo Cullen's final season. Nolan highlights the importance of the fan experience, including new fan zones and the preservation of standing terraces to maintain the club's atmosphere.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the political fallout following Northern Secretary of State Chris Bryant's decision to ban the Orange Order march along the Garvahi Road. Featuring analysis from Belfast Telegraph columnist Alison Morris, the episode examines the failures in intelligence and communication involving the Parades Commission and the PSNI during the recent period of unrest. The discussion covers the ambiguity of existing legislation, the potential for political shifts within the DUP, and the growing divide between First Minister Michelle O'Neill and Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly.

Economist and author Ronan Lyons joins Pat Kenny to discuss his new book, Brittle: How the Housing Crisis is Breaking Ireland and How to Fix It. Lyons argues that Ireland's housing system has moved beyond a mere bubble into a brittle state that is fundamentally reshaping Irish society and preventing younger generations from establishing independent lives. The discussion explores the widening gap between housing supply and actual need, driven by changing demographics such as smaller household sizes and an aging population. Lyons proposes moving away from a reliance on single-family home ownership toward a balanced system of social rental and market rental sectors. He advocates for structural reforms, including the creation of a dedicated fund to ensure long-term investment in cost rental housing, rather than simply increasing annual spending.

The Pat Kenney Show explores the ongoing tensions surrounding the Garvahi Road protests one week after recent demonstrations. Featuring resident Desi Traynor and Irish News video editor Dylan Hegarty, the discussion examines the current standoff between residents and the Orange Order, highlighting the lack of resolution despite legal proceedings and proposed compromises. Desi Traynor shares a deeply personal history of loss during the Troubles to illustrate the complexities of identity and the intergenerational trauma affecting Northern Ireland. The episode delves into the symbolic nature of the marches, the recent community prayer services at Drumcree, and the urgent desire for a resolution that prevents the cycle of conflict from being passed on to future generations.

Host Pat Kenny and technology correspondent Adrian Weckler discuss Meta's newly unveiled Muse charm, a small, wearable AI device designed to provide constant access to an AI assistant without a smartphone. The discussion explores the device's capabilities, including its ability to use cameras and microphones to identify objects and information in real-time, as well as its potential to act as an agent capable of executing tasks like purchasing concert tickets using personal credentials. The conversation also addresses the broader implications of moving into an era of always-on personal assistants. While the technology offers significant convenience for managing schedules and automating tedious web searches, it raises critical concerns regarding privacy, data security, and the potential for AI overreach when granted access to sensitive personal information and financial details.

Host Pat Kenney discusses the upcoming Irish budget with economist Austin Hughes and Professor of Economics Edgar Morganroth. The panel examines whether the government's shift from a 'workers' budget' to a 'cost of living' focus is appropriate given current inflationary pressures and global economic uncertainty. The discussion covers critical themes including the necessity of indexing income tax, the challenges of infrastructure investment, and the risks associated with a narrowing tax base. The conversation explores the tension between short-term political popularity and long-term economic resilience. Key topics include the impact of energy prices on households, the difficulty of transitioning to electric vehicles for the squeezed middle, and the importance of maintaining fiscal prudence through special funds despite rising public spending.

The Pat Kenny Show discusses the intense atmosphere surrounding the upcoming football match between Ireland and Israel in Serbia. Reporters Ben Symes and Shane Hannan provide details on a recent surreal press conference involving allegations of racism, physical confrontations with journalists, and the absence of a UEFA delegate despite high tensions. The discussion also covers the psychological impact of off-pitch incidents on players and the potential for a volatile match. The episode transitions to the ongoing legal and financial scrutiny surrounding Manchester City's alleged breaches of Premier League rules. Analysts debate the potential sanctions, the possibility of relegation, and the long-term implications for the English football hierarchy if the appeal process drags on through the end of the season.

The panel analyzes the upcoming Irish budget, examining the tension between government spending plans and departmental negotiations. The discussion covers potential changes to pensions, childcare costs, and the minimum wage, while critiquing the lack of a cohesive political narrative and addressing concerns regarding child poverty and the rising cost of living. The conversation also explores broader political issues, including energy policy, recent political tensions in Northern Ireland compared to the 1990s, and the stability of the power-sharing executive. The episode concludes with a discussion on global trends surrounding the ethics of the death penalty.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, host Pat Kenny interviews Brendan McShovna, Professor of History at the University of Galway, regarding his new book, A Letter Home, Irish Correspondence from America, 1818 to 1972. The discussion explores the profound impact of Irish emigration on the nation's identity, using personal letters to reveal the lived realities of those who left for the United States. The conversation delves into themes of precarity, exile, and the ambivalence felt by emigrants who viewed America as both a land of liberty and a place of forced departure due to economic and political systems in Ireland. McShovna highlights the unique experiences of young women seeking independence, the emotional weight of letters that served as the sole link to home, and the enduring legacy of the millions of Irish people who emigrated across two centuries.

Gerry Devlin, owner of the Dublin Cookery School, joins Pat Kenny to discuss seasonal Irish produce for October. The conversation focuses on utilizing autumnal ingredients such as pumpkins, squash, mushrooms, and beef cheeks to create flavorful, comforting dishes. Devlin shares culinary techniques for making fresh pasta, mushroom soufflés, and braised beef cheeks, emphasizing the importance of visiting local butchers, fishmongers, and veg shops to find high-quality, seasonal varieties like Potimar squash and wild Irish mushrooms.

Leo Radker discusses Andy Burnham's stance on rejoining the European Union, exploring the potential economic and security benefits of a closer UK-EU relationship and the political challenges involved. The conversation also examines the implications for Schengen and the Euro, alongside tensions in Northern Ireland following recent parade disputes. The episode further explores the prospect of a United Ireland, emphasizing the importance of protecting the British minority, and concludes with reflections on Irish budgetary politics.

Professor of Biochemistry Luke O'Neill joins The Pat Kenney Show to discuss the groundbreaking scientific evidence linking the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) to the development of multiple sclerosis (MS). The discussion explores how a common virus, often associated with infectious mononucleosis or 'kissing disease,' can trigger an autoimmune response in individuals with specific genetic predispositions through a process known as molecular mimicry. The episode covers the current state of medical research, including ongoing clinical trials by companies like Moderna for both preventive and therapeutic vaccines. Beyond MS, the conversation touches upon the potential links between EBV and other autoimmune conditions like lupus, as well as its historical connection to certain types of lymphoma.

In this episode of The Pat Kenny Show, dietitian Sarah Keogh discusses the profound connection between nutrition and mental well-being. She explains how dietary patterns, such as the MIND diet, can influence mood, stress levels, and cognitive function by providing essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and iron. The conversation also covers the importance of identifying underlying health issues, such as celiac disease, which can manifest as recurrent low iron. Keogh provides practical advice for balanced eating, suggesting a simple plate method involving protein, high-fiber carbohydrates, and plenty of fruits and vegetables to optimize both physical and mental health.

In this interview, Minister of State Thomas Byrne discusses Ireland's EU presidency, focusing on energy security, the impact of global geopolitics on fuel prices, and the transition away from fossil fuels. He also addresses the challenges of regulating AI, the importance of the EU's long-term budget for competitiveness, and the complexities of negotiating among member states. The discussion further covers the Irish presidency's role in negotiating the EU budget, specifically addressing tensions between member states over proposed increases. The segment also touches upon the separation of politics from football following a recent Ireland match and the ongoing preparatory work for future EU-UK relations.

Arts journalist Pat Carty joins The Pat Kenny Show to reflect on the 50-year career of the iconic Irish band U2. The discussion traces the band's evolution from their early days in Mount Temple, playing covers out of necessity, through their massive global breakthrough with The Joshua Tree and the experimental era of Achtung Baby. The conversation explores the band's consistent ability to reinvent themselves, their legendary live performances like Live Aid, and the enduring impact of their hits on both Irish and global audiences.

Historian Michael Barry joins Pat Kenny to discuss his new book, Catalpa, which chronicles the 150th anniversary of the audacious rescue of six Fenian prisoners from Western Australia. The escape involved a complex international conspiracy led by John Devoy in New York, involving the procurement of a whaling ship and an undercover agent to facilitate the prison break. The narrative details the high-stakes maritime pursuit by the British vessel Georgette and the eventual successful evasion through the use of the American flag. The episode concludes with the legacy of the escapees, who settled in America and became part of enduring Irish-American folklore.