Lunchtime Live

On the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, guests and listeners share firsthand eyewitness accounts from Washington, D.C., Chicago, New York, and beyond. The episode explores personal stories of loss, including the impact on families in Ireland, and the experiences of those witnessing the events from China to Manhattan. The discussion covers the immediate shock and chaos following the attacks, the disruption of daily life, and the profound sense of community and resilience that emerged. From the eerie silence in cities to the selfless altruism found in the aftermath, these memories reflect a global moment of shared tragedy and humanity.

Travel writer and broadcaster Joan Scales joins Andrea Gilligan to provide a snapshot of tourism, attractions, and accommodation in County Kildare. The discussion covers diverse locations ranging from the Museum of Style Icons in Newbridge, featuring items from Princess Diana and Audrey Hepburn, to the historical significance of Donna Dee Forest Park and its 9/11 memorial. The episode explores luxury stays at Carton House and Barberstown Castle—noted for its former ownership by Eric Clapton—alongside more affordable family options like the West Grove Hotel. Additional recommendations include shopping at Kildare Village, exploring Maynooth's Royal Canal, and various dining opportunities throughout the county.

Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the upcoming Harry Styles Together Together tour dates at Croke Park, Dublin, focusing on the wide range of ticket prices. Featuring comedian Jess Spencer and journalist Saoirse Hanley, the conversation explores the rising costs of live music, comparing various artist pricing structures including Taylor Swift, Westlife, and the Backstreet Boys at the Las Vegas Sphere. The panel also examines the concept of 'unpredictable fun' tickets and the logistical challenges of high-priced concert experiences.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, presenter Andrea Gilligan and Breakfast Briefing reporter Shane Beatty review the week's top stories across Ireland. The discussion covers a variety of topics, including calls for the maintenance of the iconic Nace Ball in Kildare and the appointment of Nicola Brennan as the manager of a men's GAA club in Leitrim. The program also highlights lighter news, such as the release of message bottles from Fannad Lighthouse in Donegal to mark its 10th anniversary, and the impressive winning streak of a Donegal man on the game show Countdown. Finally, the pair share a heartwarming story regarding Texas teachers who received a personal reply from President Michael D. Higgins.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan is joined by Jenny Sheehan, co-host of the Rip It Up The Renovations podcast, and interior architect Jenny Butler to discuss essential considerations for buying furniture and arranging living spaces. The discussion covers how to avoid common mistakes such as purchasing oversized sofas or furniture that is too small for a room, which can create a dollhouse effect. The experts provide practical advice on maximizing room flow by pulling furniture away from walls, establishing focal points, and using masking tape to map out dimensions before making purchases. The conversation also touches upon standard clearance distances for walkways, the importance of prioritizing function over aesthetics, and why avoiding a perfectly matched furniture set can create a more curated, relaxed atmosphere.

Hosts Andrea Gilligan and Paula McSweeney discuss the upcoming Westlife residency at the Three Arena in Dublin, sharing nostalgic memories of the band's era. The episode features listeners sharing stories of extreme fandom, including personal encounters with band members and using song lyrics to woo romantic interests.

Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan explores the ongoing debate surrounding inheritance tax reforms in Ireland. The episode features Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers discussing potential adjustments to tax bands, specifically regarding Category B beneficiaries like nieces and nephews. The discussion expands to include perspectives from listeners and guests, such as Bridget, who argues that current proposals reinforce the nuclear family at the expense of single individuals and non-traditional relationships. Additionally, Michael Houghton from the Irish Fire podcast shares advice on lifetime gifting strategies to mitigate tax burdens while emphasizing the importance of enjoying wealth during one's lifetime.

This podcast episode examines the backlash following Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary's use of the term 'high fare rapists' to describe competing airlines. The program features interviews with the CEO of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre and a rape survivor, both of whom condemn the trivialization of sexual violence for business soundbites. Survivor and campaigner Fiona Doyle discusses her distress over O'Leary's refusal to retract his comments. The episode also covers the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre's plan to offer O'Leary training on language regarding abuse.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan welcomes Alan Buckley from the Irish Rock and Roll Museum Experience to discuss the life and music of singer-songwriter Sufjan Stevens. The conversation explores Stevens's complex personal history, his immense musical versatility playing over 20 instruments, and his ambitious project of creating albums named after all 50 US states. Buckley provides deep analysis of specific tracks from the album Illinois, including the tragic storytelling in Casimir Pulaski Day and the hauntingly soft approach to dark subject matter in John Wayne Gacy Jr. The discussion highlights Stevens's status as a critically acclaimed artist whose work offers profound emotional depth and a sense of place, even as he maintains a private personal life.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, a tour guide named Mary raises serious concerns regarding the poor state of public toilets at major Irish tourist attractions, specifically citing recent vandalism and closures at the Rock of Cashel. She highlights the lack of proactive planning by local authorities and the negative impact this has on international visitors and the tourism industry. The discussion expands to include the challenges faced by disabled individuals in accessing maintained and accessible facilities, as well as a broader critique of the breakdown in communication between policing and local authorities. Listeners contribute their own experiences regarding the lack of infrastructure at beaches, parks, and towns across Ireland.

New figures released to the Social Democrats reveal that the HSE is failing to meet targets for delivering radiation therapy to cancer patients within 15 days, with hundreds of patients missing recommended timeframes this year. The discussion explores the impact of aging medical infrastructure, specifically focusing on radiotherapy machines in Dublin that are operating well beyond their intended ten-year lifespan. The episode features a patient advocate and cervical cancer survivor sharing her personal experience with treatment delays and the physical reminders of older technology, alongside a professor of radiation oncology discussing regional inequities in healthcare. The conversation highlights the urgent need for proactive planning and ring-fenced funding for the replacement of essential cancer-curing machinery to prevent further delays and patient anxiety.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, the hosts discuss several heartwarming and trending topics. They begin by highlighting a kind initiative from Gillespie's SuperValu in Baltinglass, which offers a safe space for children waiting for parents stuck in traffic or delayed after school. The show also covers the results of Ireland's first sandwich census, revealing the crisp sandwich as the national favorite, and discusses rumors regarding Harry Styles' potential upcoming concert announcements. Finally, the hosts touch upon the start of 'drafting season' in dating and the excitement surrounding a live orchestral performance of Home Alone at the 3 Arena.

Este episódio aborda a proposta de limitar o número de lojas de vape através de regulamentações de planeamento urbano, debatendo se a restrição é uma questão de saúde pública ou de gestão urbana. O debate explora o impacto na saúde versus o risco de aumentar o abandono de imóveis comerciais. A discussão estende-se ao impacto das mudanças regulatórias e de preços no mercado, abordando a dificuldade de manter negócios legítimos perante o aumento de custos. São discutidos ainda o surgimento de um mercado negro por empresas não profissionais e as possíveis novas restrições governamentais.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan interviews Professor Shane Higgins, a consultant obstetrician and gynecologist at the National Maternity Hospital, to discuss the physiological signs of labour and pregnancy management. The discussion covers the clinical definition of labour involving cervical changes, how to distinguish between true labour pains and Braxton Hicks contractions, and when it is necessary to present to the hospital. Professor Higgins also addresses topics such as the use of epidurals, the risks associated with elective caesarean sections, and considerations for women planning pregnancies later in life.

Host Andrea Gilligan discusses the evolving traditions of the Sunday roast, specifically addressing a recent survey by Lightspeed regarding unconventional toppings like kimchi, hot sauce, and mayonnaise. Featuring guests Esther O'Meara Donoghue, a podcast host and self-described roast investigator, and Dean Diplock, Executive Chef at Braehead House Resort, the episode explores whether modern culinary trends are threatening the classic carvery. The conversation covers the cultural importance of the Sunday meal, the impact of rising costs on dining habits, and professional tips for achieving the perfect roast potato using duck fat.

This episode explores the delays and complexities surrounding the merger of the GAA, LGFA, and Camogie Association into a single-club model. The discussion features reactions from Anna Geary and Louise Crowley regarding the importance of integration for equality, while also addressing structural obstacles such as membership disparities and recent controversial comments by Mary McAleese concerning women's representation in decision-making.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, motoring expert Joey Donnelly from Crofton Motors joins host Andrea Gilligan to address a variety of listener queries regarding the current automotive market. The discussion covers the advantages and risks of buying secondhand vehicles, the complexities of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs), and the financial implications of battery repairs in older models. Donnelly provides practical advice on maximizing trade-in values through private sales, diagnosing vehicle issues like condensation and squealing noises, and navigating NCT failures. The segment also explores consumer tips for inspecting tyre wear, selecting family-friendly SUVs, and managing the logistics of car ownership and maintenance.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan and communications expert Owen Thomas McDermott analyze the non-verbal cues and body language observed in the television show The Traitors. Using recent episodes as a case study, they discuss the dangers of misinterpreting single gestures, such as crossed arms or eye contact avoidance, without understanding an individual's baseline behavior. The conversation explores how clusters of behaviors are more reliable indicators than isolated tells and examines how social dynamics like herd mentality and aggressive interrogation can influence physical responses.

This episode examines the management and implementation of new cycle lanes across Ireland, highlighting significant concerns regarding construction delays, inefficiency, and safety. The discussion covers issues such as road narrowing, poorly designed infrastructure, and the potential for increased danger to both motorists and cyclists. Listeners from Cork, Limerick, and Dublin share personal experiences regarding traffic congestion and the impact on emergency vehicle access. The conversation also explores the broader implications of these infrastructure changes, including the role of budget surpluses in public spending and the necessity of effective management to encourage a transition from cars to bicycles.

Host Andrea Gilligan discusses a recent survey regarding life's milestones and the anxieties associated with major transitions. Featuring guests Laura Mullet, a fashion expert and journalist; Aidan Loughnan, a mental health advocate; and Stephanie Regan, a clinical psychotherapist, the episode explores why events such as moving house, starting families, or changing locations can trigger fear. The conversation delves into the psychological impact of comparing one's personal timeline to others and offers perspectives on managing the pressure of societal expectations through preparation and self-compassion.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live with Andrea Gilligan, entertainment specialist Katie Gallagher shares her top recommendations for the week across television, film, and podcasts. The discussion covers the second season of The Real Housewives of London, highlighting its dramatic and unhinged nature, as well as the upcoming dark comedy-drama Bad Apples starring Saoirse Ronan. Additionally, the segment explores the new vodcast Gift List hosted by Angela Scanlon, featuring an episode with Louis Theroux, and concludes with a look at Westlife's upcoming residency in Dublin.

This episode explores the recent decline in private health insurance holders driven by rising costs and the increasing financial burden on families and pensioners. Through various callers, the hosts examine the tension between the efficiency of private care—such as rapid cancer diagnoses—and the necessity of the public system. Callers share personal stories ranging from life-saving medical interventions to the extreme financial strain caused by soaring premiums. The discussion highlights the ethical debate surrounding 'queue skipping' and the critical need for accessible healthcare amidst an aging population and significant delays in the public system.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan sits down with Chartered Physiotherapist Andrew Dunn for the 'Ask the Medic' segment. The discussion covers essential guidelines for strength training, including recommended frequency and intensity to ensure effective muscle fatigue. The conversation addresses various listener queries regarding common physical ailments such as shin splints, Achilles tendon issues, hip bursitis, and pregnancy-related back and hip pain. Andrew Dunn provides clinical perspectives on managing repetitive strain, the importance of load management in injury recovery, and the role of resistance training using body weight. The episode concludes with a tribute to Sarah O'Callaghan, a physiotherapist raising funds for metastatic cancer survivors through an upcoming marathon.

Antoinette Carney joins Andrea Gilligan on Newstalk to share the moving story of her marriage to Damien Coakley, which was facilitated by the Wicklow Hospice in May 2025. Following Damien's battle with bowel cancer, the hospice staff and social workers went above and beyond to arrange a wedding within the hospice grounds, providing a sense of dignity and joy during their final months together. Antoinette discusses the vital role the hospice played in managing Damien's care and her efforts to honor his legacy through charity work. The episode also highlights the upcoming national coffee mornings for hospice on September 24th, encouraging listeners to participate in fundraising efforts to support the essential services provided by hospices across the country.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, listeners share distressing experiences with vehicle clamping in Dublin and Galway. Callers discuss various issues ranging from inadequate signage for private parking zones to the sudden removal of vehicles from public streets. The segment highlights a perceived pattern of aggressive enforcement by authorities, citing problems such as expired permits, clerical errors, and the difficulty of navigating the appeals process. These incidents often leave drivers in significant financial and emotional distress.

Lunchtime Live host Andrea Gilligan discusses the future of derelict and abandoned churches in Ireland with architect Roisin Murphy and Gwen Layden, landlord of George's Street Arcade. The conversation explores various adaptive reuse strategies for these historic structures, ranging from private residential conversions and apartments to community hubs, art galleries, and even soup kitchens. The panel examines the architectural challenges of converting protected structures, such as heating difficulties and high maintenance costs, while weighing them against the cultural value of preserving heritage. The discussion also touches upon the importance of local authorities acquiring these spaces to prevent the loss of community assets and the potential for churches to serve as modern social centers in an era of changing religious engagement.

Consumer and cost of living journalist Katrina Redmond joins Andrea Gilligan to discuss the impending rise in food prices driven by a combination of climate change, fuel costs, and poor harvests. The discussion covers how extreme heat and drought have impacted Irish produce like tomatoes and strawberries, while rising energy and transport costs are expected to hit supermarket checkouts as supply contracts are renegotiated. Redmond provides practical advice for managing household budgets, suggesting that consumers build up small stores of shelf-stable, ambient goods like pasta and rice to create a buffer against future hikes. The episode also explores the impact of poor potato harvests on takeaway costs and highlights ways to support local producers through farmers' markets and the purchase of imperfect produce.

Este episódio aborda as novas propostas de legislação para a cidadania irlandesa, que visam aumentar o tempo de residência necessário de cinco para oito anos e introduzir requisitos de proficiência linguística. Através de entrevistas com Faisal, Pete e Rian Friesen, exploramos as preocupações de profissionais e o impacto emocional e logístico sobre imigrantes que planejavam a naturalização.

Travel content creator Will Murphy joins Andrea Gilligan to explore the highlights of County Kerry, often referred to as the gem of Ireland. The discussion covers a comprehensive itinerary ranging from Killarney National Park and the Ring of Kerry to the scenic Dingle Peninsula and the Skellig Coast. Murphy provides practical advice on navigating tour buses, visiting Skellig Michael, and finding unique accommodations like glamping pods or converted buses. The episode highlights specific seasonal events such as the Dingle Food Festival and the May Day celebrations in Dingle. Additional recommendations include night kayaking in Kenmare to witness bioluminescence, seaweed foraging, and exploring the remote Great Blasket Island. The conversation serves as a guide for both active travelers seeking adventure and those looking for relaxing stays in B&Bs or luxury resorts.

A passenger, Anne-Marie, shares a distressing experience regarding a recent Ryanair flight from Madeira. While traveling with an elderly family member in a wheelchair, the group encountered a sudden change in check-in policy that required the wheelchair user to be checked in separately from his companions. This separation led to significant chaos at the airport, including lost contact with the passenger and extreme stress for the entire party. The episode explores the lack of communication regarding this alleged policy change and the difficulty of receiving a meaningful response from Ryanair's customer service. The discussion highlights the vulnerability of passengers requiring special assistance and the impact such logistical failures have on the well-being of elderly travelers.

This episode explores the upcoming final boxing match of world champion Katie Taylor at Croke Park in Dublin. The hosts and guests reflect on her immense impact on women's sports, sharing personal anecdotes from residents of her hometown, Bray. Featuring referee Sadie Duffy, the discussion delves into the historic October 2001 international match between Ireland and England that featured the first two female boxers in Irish history. The segment also touches upon Taylor's early dedication to boxing over football and her enduring legacy in the sport.

On Newstalk's Lunchtime Live, host Andrea Gilligan discusses the upcoming five-part RTE drama series based on the murder of Tipperary DJ Bobby 'Mr Moonlight' Ryan. The discussion features courts correspondent Frank Graney and crime writer Sam Blake, exploring the ethical implications of dramatizing recent high-profile criminal cases. The panel debates the balance between artistic license and factual accuracy, noting that while filmmakers have more room for nuance than documentary makers, sensitivity toward the victim's family is paramount. The series, based on Catherine Feagin's book, is expected to air in 2027 and aims to explore the human story behind the tragedy.

In this episode of Lunchtime Live, Andrea Gilligan and Shane Beatty present the Regional Roundup, covering various stories from across Ireland. The discussion begins with news regarding lost property at Electric Picnic and a volunteer effort in Stradbally to reunite owners with their belongings. The presenters also cover the end of an era on Valencia Island as Walsh's Grocery Store prepares for a change in ownership after 55 years. The episode continues with a call for witnesses for a Guinness World Record endurance challenge in Leash, followed by a lighthearted story from Limerick regarding nesting birds preventing the removal of a cinema poster. Finally, the duo discusses National Cinema Weekend, highlighting discounted ticket prices and special screenings available across the country.