Lunchtime Live

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, travel content creator Kevin Penrose provides an in-depth guide to exploring County Donegal. The discussion covers the best places to base oneself, such as Donegal Town, and highlights various accommodations ranging from local hotels to luxury options like Lough Eske Castle. The segment explores diverse activities across the county, including visiting the Slieve League cliffs, exploring the wildlife sanctuary at Wild Ireland, and hiking Mount Ergal. Kevin also recommends coastal gems like Rossnowlagh Beach and hidden spots like the Leenane waterfall, offering a comprehensive itinerary for both adventure seekers and those looking for a peaceful retreat.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Anna Daly hosts Caroline from Smith's Ice Cream to discuss the operations and nostalgia surrounding the ice cream van business. The conversation covers the evolution of the family business, the high demand for bookings during communion season, and the rise of corporate catering requests. Beyond the logistics of running a van, the segment explores listener memories ranging from childhood treats to modern-day trends like dog-friendly ice cream. The discussion also touches on the pricing of a classic 99 cone and the importance of using high-quality Irish dairy in their products.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Cahill Cully and Rebecca Wilson discuss their 'Different Minds, Same Heart' campaign. As a couple who both received late diagnoses for autism and ADHD, they are using their upcoming wedding to raise awareness, challenge neurodivergent stereotypes, and reduce the stigma associated with these conditions. The conversation covers the complexities of the diagnostic process, the personal impact of late diagnosis on mental health, and practical ways they are making their wedding ceremony more sensory-friendly and inclusive for all guests.

This podcast explores the developmental benefits of boredom and unstructured play for children, highlighting how a lack of constant stimulation can foster creativity, problem-solving, and independence. The conversation also touches on the value of involving children in household responsibilities and embracing the natural chaos of a home during childhood.

Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the upcoming Fleadh na hÉireann in Belfast, which is set to host more than 100 live events and an estimated 800,000 people. Siobhan McGuigan, Head of Events with Tourism Northern Ireland, provides details on the economic impact, which is projected to exceed £53 million for the local economy, and highlights the cultural significance of Belfast as a UNESCO City of Music. The episode covers the variety of programming available, including the free Gig Rig at Belfast City Hall, family zones, and pop-up sessions. The conversation also features Ethan, an Irish dancing instructor, who discusses adult classes and the social importance of the dance, alongside mentions of themed workshops such as jewellery making and flash tattoos.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Shane Beattie presents a roundup of news stories including the regulation of gravediggers in Limerick and the availability of islands for sale in Ireland. The show also covers requested flight destinations for Waterford Airport. The segment further explores upcoming bank holiday weekend festivals in Ireland, specifically detailing the return of the Crisp Festival at The Bernard Shaw in Dublin and the Ballylongford Oyster Festival in Kerry.

This episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan features a discussion regarding the targeted harassment of female local councillors in Ireland. Three councillors—Mary Howard, Rachel Batten, and Nuala Killeen—share their experiences of receiving persistent, sexually explicit, and threatening phone calls from an unidentified individual. The conversation explores the psychological impact of these attacks, the vulnerability felt by representatives during non-working hours, and the broader implications for women's participation in politics. The participants discuss the shared nature of the experience across different political parties and the sense of solidarity found among victims. They highlight the necessity of safeguarding female politicians against sexualized abuse and emphasize that such behavior is unacceptable in any professional or social context.

O episódio Lunchtime Live com Andrea Gilligan explora estratégias práticas e de baixo custo para aumentar a segurança residencial, especialmente durante períodos de ausência prolongada ou feriados. A conversa aborda o uso de tecnologia, como tomadas inteligentes, dispositivos SwitchBot para cortinas e sistemas de câmeras Eufy, contrastando-os com métodos tradicionais e a importância da colaboração com vizinhos. Além de dicas sobre iluminação estratégica e monitoramento de entregas, os apresentadores discutem o perigo de confiar exclusivamente em dispositivos Wi-Fi e sugerem cuidados simples, como não deixar lixo acumulado ou correspondência visível. O programa também toca brevemente no tema de intercâmbio de casas (home exchange) e na importância de manter a casa com aparência de habitada para evitar oportunidades para oportunistas.

This episode of Lunchtime Live explores the significant economic impact following Mayo's All-Ireland victory. Guests Susan Hayes-Culleton and Dennis Finbar Cronin discuss unprecedented spending surges in County Mayo, including a 1000% increase in pub revenue in Castlebar and substantial growth in hotel bookings and food services. The conversation examines how this historic win, the first for the county in 75 years, serves as a massive boost to the local hospitality industry and the global Mayo GAA brand. The discussion also touches upon increased digital connectivity via roaming data peaks and the broader cultural significance of such sporting achievements for regional economies.

The hosts and guests discuss the challenges and methods of maintaining friendships at different stages of life, ranging from childhood connections to 'friends of convenience' made through parenting. The conversation explores how digital communication like memes and reels helps sustain low-maintenance bonds, while also touching on the difficulty of integrating into established local communities. The speakers further explore how transitions like children entering school or moving locations impact social circles. They examine the idea that while technology provides an illusion of connection, maintaining deep, meaningful relationships requires intentional effort and emotional capacity.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the resurgence of spray tans, discussing whether the practice is a returning trend from the Celtic Tiger era or a permanent fixture in beauty routines. Featuring lifestyle content creator Chelsea Tyler McGrane, Coco Brown Tan CEO Marissa Carter, and broadcasters Suzanne Cain and journalist Saoirse Hanley, the episode examines the evolution of tanning technology. The conversation covers the transition from notorious orange hues to sophisticated, customizable formulas, the convenience of mobile tanning services, and the shared, often humorous, experiences of the tanning process.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum Experience discusses the long and eclectic history of the band Pulp. While often associated with the Britpop movement of the 1990s alongside bands like Oasis and Blur, Buckley highlights that the group actually formed much earlier, in 1978, and possesses a diverse musical influence ranging from the Human League to ABBA. The conversation covers the band's various phases, including their formation in Sheffield, periods of breakup and reunion, and their evolution through different musical styles. Buckley also touches upon notable members, such as keyboardist Candida, and discusses the cultural impact of frontman Jarvis Cocker, specifically mentioning his outspoken nature and a famous incident at the Brit Awards.

Andrea Gilligan, travel expert Ciara Mooney, and environmental journalist John Gibbons discuss the impact of extreme heat and wildfires in Europe, noting how human-induced carbon emissions are driving these climate events. The discussion also explores the potential for agricultural communities to assist during natural disasters. Dennis Drennan highlights the untapped potential of using agricultural equipment and farmer goodwill to support local authorities during emergencies like snowstorms and wildfires. He emphasizes the need for a coordinated response framework that addresses insurance and liability concerns to encourage farmers to help their communities.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan interviews Dr. Dermot Quillan regarding the acute GP shortages affecting Ireland's rural and commuter areas. The discussion explores how rapid population growth and an aging demographic are driving a crisis in medical accessibility. The conversation also addresses the difficulties of accessing services in regional counties, featuring personal accounts of long wait times. Additionally, the segment examines the impact of medical emigration and provides statistics on the retention rates of Irish-trained medical professionals.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist from the National Maternity Hospital. The discussion focuses on the differences between scheduled and emergency C-sections, explaining that while the surgical procedure is largely the same, the timing and preparation vary significantly. Professor Higgins addresses common concerns regarding induction of labor, pain management through regional anesthetics, and the presence of partners during surgery. He also provides practical advice for expectant parents, suggesting they avoid overly prescriptive birth plans to manage expectations when medical necessities require a change in delivery method.

Ger Gavigan from Crumlin GAA Club joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss a recent act of vandalism at Pearce Park. A vehicle was driven onto the club's only adult pitch and set on fire during the early hours of a Monday morning, resulting in a burnt-out car and extensive damage to the playing surface. The incident occurs at a critical time as the club enters the championship season, threatening training and matches for hundreds of members. The discussion covers the immediate impact on the community, the difficulty of finding alternative playing venues due to existing championship schedules, and the estimated six to eight-week timeline for repairs. While Dublin City Council has provided support for ground restoration, the loss of the pitch presents a significant challenge for the club's youth and adult teams throughout the summer.

This episode features tributes to the late Irish musician Glenn Hansard following news of his death in a road traffic accident. Guests Danny McElhinney and Ciara Dignam share personal stories regarding Hansard's musical legacy, his activism for the homeless, and his genuine character. The segment also includes various tributes from musicians and fans about his authenticity and kindness. Discussions cover his musical influence, his role in the film 'The Commitments', and his legendary live performances with The Frames.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Dr. Ellen McSweeney from the Irish Blood Transfusion Service answers listener questions regarding blood donation eligibility. The discussion covers a wide range of medical and lifestyle topics, including the impact of tattoos, vaccinations, pregnancy, and recent medications like Ozempic. Dr. McSweeney also addresses more complex concerns such as past histories of cancer, stroke, and travel to malaria-prone regions, explaining the precautionary measures and updated guidelines used by the service. The segment concludes with advice on how potential donors can check their eligibility via the official website.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Stuart McHugh, a Disneyland Paris content creator, regarding his successful campaign to include the Irish language in the iconic 'It's a Small World' ride. McHugh discusses the historical and personal connections between Disney and Ireland, including Walt Disney's heritage and the presence of Irish staff at the park. The conversation covers the specific changes made to the attraction, such as the addition of 'Fáilte' on the entrance sign and 'Slán go fóill' on the exit. McHugh also shares insights into his role as a voluntary content creator, providing travel tips and accessibility information for visitors to Disneyland Paris.

This episode explores the ongoing debate regarding the campaign to rename Dublin streets with colonial links. Guests including Councillor Niall Ring, architect Roisin Murphy, and historian Emma Galise discuss whether such changes sanitize history or provide educational opportunities, weighing the preservation of historical layers against the desire to honor Irish figures and women. The discussion further examines diverse listener opinions, ranging from opposition to 'woke nonsense' to support for removing colonial connections. Niall Ring addresses the possibility of renaming specific areas like George's Dock and discusses the committee's review of names associated with historical oppression.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, the discussion centers on a new report from Zelos regarding the 'Avoidance Economy,' which highlights how Gen Z is losing money because they are too afraid to ask friends for repayments. The panel explores whether this reluctance to request owed funds is a generational trait or a cultural phenomenon specific to Ireland. Guests including Terry Prone, Mally Coyne, and listeners share perspectives on the social dynamics of lending. The conversation touches upon how lending money can create power imbalances and resentment in friendships, the psychological fear of being perceived as 'tight' or 'mean,' and the practical advice of treating loans as gifts to preserve relationships.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan is joined by Katie Gallagher from Spin to discuss upcoming entertainment highlights. The discussion covers a variety of media recommendations, including the crime thriller movie Crime 101 on Prime featuring Chris Hemsworth, and the new Apple TV series Lucky starring Anya Taylor-Joy. Additionally, the pair discuss Holly Willoughby's new YouTube cooking venture, Together, and the upcoming lineup for the All Together Now festival in Waterford, which features a rare appearance by Christy Moore.

This episode explores the debate between staycations and traveling abroad, weighing the costs and benefits of both options. The discussion covers the rising prices of international travel versus the high cost of accommodation in Ireland, while highlighting affordable local alternatives like the Dublin Coastal Trail. The conversation also delves into trends in Irish tourism, including the rise in last-minute domestic bookings and the impact of extreme heat in mainland Europe on travel choices. Additionally, the episode features initiatives aimed at supporting single-parent families through discounted hotel stays and discusses the importance of fair wages within the hospitality industry.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses strategies for maintaining health and routine during the summer months. Featuring behavior change specialist Dr. Heather McKee and endocrinologist Dr. Mary Ryan, the conversation explores how to navigate seasonal temptations like barbecues, ice creams, and increased alcohol consumption without falling into all-or-nothing behaviors. The experts provide medical and psychological insights into managing sugar spikes, the importance of nutritional moderation, and the benefits of maintaining daily anchors to support long-term wellbeing.

This episode captures the profound emotional landscape following Mayo's historic All-Ireland victory, ending a 75-year wait for the Sam Maguire Cup. Guests share personal stories of relief and joy, reflecting on the intense atmosphere at Croke Park, the resilience of the team, and the deep connection felt by the global Mayo diaspora. The conversation explores the aftermath of the win, including the massive scale of homecoming preparations in Castlebar and Ballina. From memories of the 1951 victory to the cultural impact of the win through music and personal anecdotes, the episode highlights the widespread celebration across Ireland and beyond.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the ongoing impact of wildfires and dry weather across Ireland and Europe. The episode features a local resident from Waterford discussing the health challenges posed by smoke for those with respiratory conditions, alongside an independent counselor detailing the theft of equipment and damage to personal vehicles belonging to firefighters in Tipperary. The discussion also includes insights from Tipperary TD Matty McGrath on the importance of landscape maintenance and community coordination during fire emergencies. Finally, travel expert Owen Corry provides updates on wildfire-related evacuations in France and Spain, offering practical advice for holidaymakers regarding travel insurance and changing plans due to environmental conditions.

Personal finance expert Paul Merriman, CEO of Fairstone, joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss the utility of trusts and small gift exemptions for estate planning. The discussion clarifies that trusts are not exclusively for the ultra-wealthy and explains how parents and grandparents can use the €3,000 annual small gift exemption to build assets for children without triggering capital acquisition tax. The episode covers various financial structures including bare trusts, discretionary trusts, and family partnerships. Key topics include managing lifetime inheritance tax limits, the implications of transferring assets like property or cars, and the importance of early planning to maximize the benefits of annual exemptions.

Travel content creator Will Murphy joins Andrea Gilligan to explore Derry as a premier destination for city breaks and family holidays. The discussion covers the impact of the Derry Girls phenomenon on local tourism, including the new experience at the Tower Museum, alongside historical walking tours of the walled city and the Bogside. The episode provides practical recommendations for visitors, ranging from unique accommodations like shepherd's huts and restored boats to coastal excursions along Benone Strand. Murphy also highlights culinary highlights such as local craft breweries, street food, and historic ice cream parlours, concluding with suggestions for seasonal festivities like Derry Halloween.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses the complexities and emotional realities of IVF in honor of World IVF Day. Guest Anne-Marie shares her personal journey of using IVF to conceive her son, discussing the physical, emotional, and financial investments involved, as well as the importance of being open with children about their origins. The conversation also addresses the misconceptions surrounding IVF success rates and the impact of external social pressures. Fertility coach and author Helena Tuberty-Marie joins the program to provide professional insight into the medical and psychological toll of infertility. She discusses the clinical realities of embryo development, the importance of viewing fertility as a public health issue, and the necessity of avoiding toxic positivity. The episode concludes with advice for those navigating unexplained infertility and the ongoing evolution of reproductive technologies.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the deteriorating state of footpaths across Ireland, featuring perspectives from local councillors and citizens. The discussion highlights a significant disparity in funding, where larger urban centers receive priority for regeneration while medium-sized towns and rural areas are left with dangerous, narrow, or non-existent pedestrian infrastructure. Contributors share personal accounts of the physical dangers posed by uneven surfaces, including reports of falls and injuries. The episode also addresses the social implications of poor infrastructure, noting how inadequate footpaths create isolation for wheelchair users, the elderly, and those without access to cars, effectively cutting off rural communities from essential services and local commerce.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the intense anticipation and atmosphere surrounding the upcoming All-Ireland final between Mayo and Kerry. Featuring guests from both counties, including Sheila Clark from Ballina and Kerry season ticket holder Noel, the discussion covers the visual displays of support in Mayo, the confidence levels within the Kerry camp, and the potential impact of a Mayo victory on the sporting landscape. Analysts Cameron Hill and Owen Sheehan provide insight into the shifting perceptions of the match, discussing the lack of historical hype compared to previous years and the psychological advantages or disadvantages facing both squads.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, presenter Andrea Gilligan and guest Shane Beatty review a variety of human-interest stories from across Ireland. The discussion covers a Brazilian community in Dublin dedicated to the trap-neuter-release of stray cats, a new Irish language 'conversation bench' introduced by the OPW in Kilkenny, and the rise of an 18-year-old luxury watchmaker based in Greystones, Wicklow. Additionally, the pair highlights a Donegal man spotted wearing his county colours at the World Cup final in New Jersey and discusses the high-priced luxury cruise package docking at Foynesport for the upcoming Ryder Cup.

This episode explores the debate surrounding inheritance tax fairness, focusing on how current regulations impact childless individuals and extended family members. Callers share personal stories regarding the financial burdens of passing estates to nieces, nephews, or cousins, while critics argue against the government's view of inheritance as a privilege. The discussion further examines the tension between those seeking higher thresholds for flexible gifting and those advocating for reduced thresholds to promote wealth redistribution. Financial experts provide analysis on tax aggregates, policy implications, and the importance of passing down financial literacy.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by performance coach John Belton and renovation expert Kate O'Driscoll for a discussion on creating an effective home gym. The experts provide practical advice on transforming multifunctional spaces like spare rooms, garages, or even sheds into workout areas without needing a massive budget or excessive square footage. The conversation covers essential considerations such as floor reinforcement, ceiling height for barbell clearance, and the importance of ventilation and lighting. The guests also discuss equipment recommendations, ranging from minimal setups with kettlebells and adjustable dumbbells to more advanced options like folding treadmills and interactive exercise bikes. Practical tips on sourcing secondhand commercial equipment and managing space in small homes are also shared.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Anne, a woman struggling to reclaim her late husband's taxi plate following his sudden passing. Anne describes the bureaucratic hurdles and strict nine-month deadline that resulted in her taxi licence being declared invalid, despite her attempts to finalize the paperwork while grieving. The discussion explores the impact of administrative red tape on families and highlights broader issues within the taxi industry regarding licence transfers and deregulation. The conversation touches upon the financial significance of the taxi plate, which was purchased via a second mortgage, and the lack of recourse available through the NTA or political representatives. The programme also features feedback from other taxi drivers who share similar grievances regarding the difficulty of inheriting plates from retiring or deceased family members.

Newstalk's Lunchtime Live features a debate on potential rule changes in GAA football, including the introduction of a four-point goal and video refereeing. Guests discuss whether recent adjustments, such as the two-pointer, have improved the game's intensity or diluted the impact of traditional goals. The conversation also explores the implementation of technology like goal-line decision making and concludes with predictions for the upcoming match between Kerry and Mayo.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan provides an in-depth report on the ongoing wildfire at Slievenamon in County Tipperary. The program features live reporting from Jamie O'Hara at the scene, detailing the multi-agency response involving local fire crews, helicopters, and even local contractors using slurry tankers to combat the blaze. The episode includes perspectives from residents like Billy Tobin, who describes the stress of the fire approaching homes, and officials from Quilcro regarding containment efforts in forest plantations. Discussions also cover the environmental implications of the fire, including the risks posed by peat burning underground, the impact of climate change on extreme weather events, and the urgent need for a long-term multi-agency prevention plan to protect local wildlife and property.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan welcomes Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum to explore the legendary career of Aretha Franklin. The discussion delves into Franklin's complex personal history, including her upbringing in Memphis, Tennessee, as the daughter of a prominent preacher, and the early hardships that shaped her life. Buckley highlights key milestones in Franklin's musical journey, from her gospel roots to her emergence as a global soul icon. Through a selection of landmark songs like 'I Say a Little Prayer', 'Natural Woman', and 'Respect', the conversation examines her immense vocal talent, her connection to the civil rights movement, and her enduring legacy as one of the greatest singers in music history.

An episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan discussing the ongoing national debate regarding e-scooter bans and safety regulations in Ireland. The program features an interview with Chloe Palmer from County Kerry, whose six-year-old son Nathan suffered a fractured skull following a head-on collision with an e-scooter while riding his bicycle on a footpath. The discussion covers recent Garda seizure statistics, the potential for age restrictions on e-scooter use, and the challenges of enforcing safety measures like high-visibility clothing and helmets.

Host Andrea Gilligan hosts a discussion on body image and the psychological impact of self-criticism, featuring social media creator Grace Mongie, comedian Riona O'Connor, and clinical psychologist Dr. Mally Coyne. The conversation explores the anxiety surrounding wearing swimwear in public, the influence of social media filters on perceived reality, and the importance of practicing self-compassion. The panel discusses strategies for combating the 'inner critic,' such as using positive affirmations and reframing internal dialogue to be as kind as one would be to a child or friend. The episode touches upon how external cultural pressures and evolutionary biology contribute to body dissatisfaction and the struggle to accept physical changes like stretch marks and aging.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, Sullivan shares news regarding private islands for sale around Ireland, including properties in County Mayo, Donegal, and Tipperary. The discussion covers the costs and logistics of island living, ranging from a 10-acre property in Clew Bay to lakefront homes in Tipperary. The program also explores recent research on morning routines, noting that a shower and coffee are considered ideal by some, while many people stick to repetitive habits. Additional segments touch upon the search for new cast members for Gogglebox Ireland, camping trends among Gen Z, and the confirmed return of the series Kin to RTÉ screens.

This episode explores the decline of taxi services across 23 Irish counties, focusing on the severe impact on rural residents who face high costs and extreme difficulty finding transport. The discussion highlights how rising insurance premiums, expensive vehicle costs, and strict licensing regulations are driving drivers out of the industry. The conversation further examines the financial pressures facing drivers, including fuel prices and vehicle age requirements, while contrasting the overabundance of taxis in Dublin with the critical shortages in rural areas. Participants also debate the legal and insurance barriers preventing platforms like Uber from operating in Ireland.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist from the National Maternity Hospital. The discussion focuses on the vital role partners play during pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. Professor Higgins emphasizes that partners serve as essential advocates, providing physical, emotional, and psychological support. He encourages partners to be active participants in antenatal visits and classes, and highlights the importance of asking questions to ensure a positive birthing experience. The conversation also addresses practical concerns such as managing fatigue during pregnancy, supporting new mothers in the first weeks after birth, and navigating medical uncertainties.

This episode explores the Spanish government's proposal to ban smoking and vaping in outdoor public spaces, such as parks and beaches. Guests discuss the personal benefits of previous smoking bans and the effectiveness of strict tobacco regulations, while also addressing the difficulties of enforcing vaping bans in shared areas. The conversation extends to broader societal concerns, including the challenges pub owners face when policing indoor vaping and the impact of government infringements on personal freedoms. The discussion also examines how shifts in social habits, such as increased mobile phone use, have contributed to the decline of pub culture and diminished social interaction.

Brian Warfield of The Wolf Tones joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss his new musical, Celtic Exodus. Described as the Irish Les Misérables, the production explores the history of the Great Famine through a romantic lens involving two feuding families, the Macdonalds and the Buckleys. The show features approximately 20 pieces of music and aims to tell an authentic Irish story that Warfield felt was missing from the musical theatre landscape. Warfield shares the personal stakes involved in bringing this passion project to life, revealing that he sold a holiday home to self-fund the production due to a lack of external investment or government support. The musical is set to run for four weeks at the Round Room in the Mansion House, opening on July 22nd.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Dara Cassidy from bonkers.ie discusses the rising energy and fuel costs driven by increasing oil prices and potential carbon tax hikes. He provides expert advice on utility switching, addressing listener queries regarding loyalty discounts, smart meter benefits, and the process for renters to find better deals. The segment also covers various listener questions regarding smart meters, including the resolution of a recent billing error and the benefits of night rates for EV owners. Additionally, the discussion touches on the future rollout of gas smart meters, contract switching fees, and the availability of 24-hour standard tariffs.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Dr. Primrose Freestone, an Associate Professor in Clinical Microbiology at the University of Leicester, regarding the hygiene risks associated with mobile phones. The discussion explores how smartphones can accumulate bacteria, viruses, and fungi from various surfaces, including hands, food, and even toilet environments. Dr. Freestone provides practical advice on preventing infections, such as using antiseptic wipes daily and avoiding phone use in the bathroom to prevent exposure to microscopic particles.

Residents of Rock Chapel in North County Cork are facing a prolonged water crisis due to dangerously high levels of manganese in their supply. For nearly a year, a 'do not consume' notice has been in effect for three households, preventing the use of tap water for drinking, cooking, or even brushing teeth. While Irish Water provides weekly deliveries of bottled water, the affected residents express deep frustration over the lack of a long-term solution and the health risks associated with manganese exposure. The episode features interviews with affected residents Nolene Quinn and Mairead, alongside local Fine Gael TD John Paul O'Shea. The discussion covers the rising levels of manganese detected in recent tests, the logistical difficulties of living without running water, and the proposed plan to connect the households to the nearby village's water supply. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle for clarity and funding to resolve this localized utility failure.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Kevin Hussey, the newly elected Mayor of Longford. Hussey shares his personal journey from struggling with severe dyslexia in school to finding success as a business owner, DJ, and local political leader. He discusses the challenges of learning difficulties, the pivotal role played by supportive figures like his mother and Sister Benedict, and the moment of encouragement from his grandfather that led him to pursue politics. The conversation touches on the importance of early intervention in education and how Hussey's deep roots in the Longford community through charity work and the arts provided a foundation for his public service. His story serves as an illustration of overcoming academic obstacles through perseverance and community support.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Katie Gallagher from Spins joins Andrea Gilligan to share a curated list of entertainment recommendations for the week. The discussion covers Christopher Nolan's epic new film The Odyssey, highlighting its massive cast including Matt Damon and Anne Hathaway, and the Netflix comedy series The Hawk, starring Will Ferrell. Additionally, they discuss the captivating true crime podcast Love Trapped, which investigates a paternity scandal involving a former Bachelor star, and preview the upcoming Paddy Pirate Comedy Festival in Dublin's Ivy Gardens.