Claim OwnershipThe Tonight Show
Subscribed: 99Played: 5,220
Subscribe
© Virgin Media Originals
Description
A sharp look at the major stories shaping Ireland and the world.
Expect thoughtful analysis and robust discussion on the country’s only independent TV current affairs programme.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
758 Episodes
Reverse
Claire Brock speaks to Fionnán Sheahan, Stefanie Preissner, Barry Ward, Gary Gannon, Aidan Regan, Harry McEvansoneya, Aodhán O Ríordáin MEP, Pauline O'Reilly and Philip O'Connor Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Claire Brock is joined by Minister Charlie McConalogue, Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, Joanna Fortune, Marion McKeone, Michael Doherty, Dr Catherine Motherway, Sinead Ryan, and Paul Byrom. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
X was a notable no-show as executives from major social media platforms faced tough questioning before the Oireachtas Media Committee. The Taoiseach branded X’s decision not to appear as “concerning” and “disrespectful” — but how far is the Government really willing to go in standing up to Big Tech?John Lee is joined by Fianna Fáil TD Seán Fleming, Sinn Féin TD Louise O’Reilly, and Elaine Burke, host of the For Tech’s Sake podcast, to debate political accountability, regulation and the power of global platforms.The discussion then turns to growing momentum across Europe for an under-16s social media ban, as the European Commission warns Spain that new national rules on digital platforms may breach the EU’s Digital Services Act. Olga Cronin, Senior Policy Officer with the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, joins the panel.Finally, the programme looks to the US, where deep cuts at the Jeff Bezos–owned Washington Post are affecting around a third of its workforce, including hundreds of journalists. Former Washington Post fact-checker and author Glenn Kessler reacts to the impact on journalism and media independence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Guest presenter John Lee leads tonight’s discussion. Tánaiste and Minister for Finance Simon Harris joins to talk flooding responsibility, the Mercosur deal, and restricting teens on social media. Later, Michael Fitzmaurice, John Gibbons, and Joanna Donnelly debate Ireland’s flood defences. Plus, Enda Brady updates us on Peter Mandelson’s resignation from the House of Lords amid the Epstein investigation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Storm Chandra brings renewed rain and flood warnings for counties across the east and south east, leaving homeowners and businesses facing devastation and raising fresh anger over Ireland’s preparedness for extreme weather.John Lee is joined by Fianna Fáil Minister of State Niall Collins, Sinn Féin TD Rose Conway-Walsh and Irish Examiner Special Correspondent Mick Clifford to discuss the flooding and what it reveals about resilience and planning.The panel also tackles growing controversy over delays in Garda vetting, which may prevent newly trained recruits from taking up duties after graduating. Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has acknowledged problems with the process, but questions remain over accountability and reform.Finally, pressure continues to mount on Bord Bia Chairman Larry Murrin after confirmation that his company, Dawn Farms, used Brazilian beef in its meat products — despite backing from the Taoiseach and the Minister for Agriculture.Flooding, policing and political pressure — on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The death of 16-year-old Grace Lynch in Finglas has reignited calls for tougher action on scramblers and e-scooters on public roads. After the teenager was fatally struck by a scrambler bike that ran a red light, the Taoiseach acknowledged in the Dáil that proposals to ban scramblers had previously been brought forward — but never enacted. Guest presenter John Lee is joined by Fine Gael TD James Geoghegan and Social Democrats TD Rory Hearne to discuss whether the Government is now being forced to act.The focus then turns to the rental sector, as Cabinet signs off on major reforms just weeks before they are due to come into force. The changes include a new six-year minimum lease and a 2% annual rent cap, while allowing landlords to reset rents in certain circumstances. Maurice Deverell of the Irish Property Owners Association joins the debate.And as Storm Chandra brings severe flooding across parts of Dublin, Wicklow and the south east, questions are raised about Ireland’s preparedness for extreme weather. Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather breaks down what happened — and what comes next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
One year on from his inauguration, Donald Trump appears determined to follow through on promises to expand US power — with Greenland now firmly in his sights. Asked how far he is willing to go to acquire the territory, the US president responded: “You’ll find out.” What does this mean for Europe, and how should leaders respond?Guest presenter John Lee is joined by Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence Thomas Byrne, Labour TD George Lawlor, and Martina Lawless, Director of the ESRI. They are also joined from Brussels by Shona Murray, Europe Correspondent with Euronews. The panel reacts to sharp warnings from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has urged Europe to stand united and confront Donald Trump directly.The programme also examines the sentencing in the fatal one-punch attack on Martin Lynn in Whitehall, and the Lynn family’s call for the six-year sentence imposed on Christopher O’Neill to be appealed. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Are proposed changes to Ireland’s asylum and immigration laws fair – or too harsh? Guest presenter John Lee is joined by Fine Gael TD Joe Neville, Aontú TD Peadar Tóibín and Irish Examiner Political Correspondent Louise Burne to debate the Government’s reform plans and what they mean in practice.The focus then shifts to international tensions as Donald Trump ramps up pressure on Greenland, insisting only the US can protect the territory. Danish and Greenlandic ministers have held talks with Vice-President JD Vance, but the meeting ended after less than an hour. Fianna Fáil MEP Barry Andrews, newly appointed European Parliament rapporteur for EU–Greenland relations, joins the panel to discuss what happens next.And from Washington, Niall Stanage, Associate Editor of The Hill, brings the latest on Trump’s claims that the US may have stepped back from military action against Iran.Immigration, geopolitics and global power plays – on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
With the Dáil back in session, the Government faces fresh criticism after the EU approved the controversial Mercosur trade deal — despite a last-minute vote against it by Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Farmers’ groups say Ireland was “sold out”. Did the Government do enough to object?Guest presenter John Lee is joined by Minister of State Michael Healy-Rae, Social Democrats TD Sinéad Gibney and Irish Independent Political Editor Mary Regan to debate the political fallout.The focus then turns to the growing Grok deepfake scandal. The Taoiseach has stepped up his criticism of Elon Musk’s platform X, calling for a ruthless approach to protecting women and children. However, Media Minister Patrick O’Donovan says responsibility does not rest with the tech giant alone, pointing instead to Gardaí, regulators and the public. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Homelessness in Ireland has climbed to a new record, sparking political backlash after Tánaiste Simon Harris claimed a “significant number” of people in emergency accommodation do not have a housing right in the State. What do the latest figures reveal — and where does responsibility lie?Joining the debate are Fianna Fáil TD Paul McAuliffe, Sinn Féin TD Matt Carthy and homeless campaigner Alice Leahy.The discussion then turns to rising tolls and chronic congestion on the M50, which is now generating more than €500,000 every working day. Is the motorway becoming an unavoidable tax on workers with no alternative transport? Motoring editor Geraldine Herbert weighs in.Finally, as Taoiseach Micheál Martin leaves the door open to backing the controversial Mercosur trade deal, we go to China where Gavan Reilly reports on the closing stages of the Taoiseach’s trade mission, focused on food exports, tourism and wind energy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Guest host John Lee and his panel Neale Richmond, Patricia Stephenson, and Scott Lucas examine Donald Trump’s aggressive start to the year — from seizing Venezuela’s president to threats against Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, and now Greenland, with military options reportedly under discussion.Later, Neale Richmond, Patricia Stephenson, and Alex Cooney discuss the European Commission’s investigation into Elon Musk’s AI tool Grok, which is reportedly producing sexualised deepfake images of women and children.Global power plays and digital dangers — on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Independent candidate Catherine Connolly, Fine Gael’s Heather Humphreys and Fianna Fáil’s Jim Gavin go head-to-head in the first major TV debate of the presidential election. In this special edition of The Tonight Show, the three candidates outline their visions for Ireland’s future, challenge each other’s policies, and set the tone for the campaign ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
2025 was certainly eventful. The Tonight Show looks back at the stories, moments, people and villains that defined the year.Guest presenter Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Shane Coleman, Newstalk Breakfast Presenter; Liz Carolan, Tech and Democracy Journalist; and Larry Donnelly, Lawyer and Political Columnist, to reflect on the political highs and lows of 2025 — including who had the strongest year and who struggled the most.A year in review — on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The long-awaited report into Fianna Fáil’s presidential campaign has finally been published. It confirms that senior party figures were warned on two occasions — just days before the selection vote — about concerns involving Jim Gavin and a tenant issue. He was asked about it and professed no recollection. The report states: “Nothing further was done.”Joining the discussion are Fianna Fáil Minister of State Niall Collins, Sunday Times columnist Alison O’Connor, and public affairs consultant and former Fianna Fáil adviser Derek Mooney. Gavan Reilly, Virgin Media News Political Correspondent, reports from Leinster House where a special party meeting is underway.Also covered: the Government has approved plans for a new hospital with its own emergency department for the Midwest, following serious concerns about patient safety at University Hospital Limerick highlighted in a HIQA report. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A senior EU official has linked last week’s drones over Dublin Bay to “hybrid attacks from Russia”, marking the first public accusation of its kind. With Ireland set to host the EU presidency next year, how secure are we? John Mooney, Investigations Editor with The Sunday Times, former TD and retired Army Officer Cathal Berry, and Euronews Europe Correspondent Shauna Murray join the debate.Later, the panel examines the rise of violent drug gangs in rural Ireland, following the tragic deaths of four-year-old Tadhg Farrell and his grand-aunt Mary Holt in an arson attack linked to Midlands drug intimidation.Plus: Storm Bram batters the country, leaving thousands without power. We get the latest from Alan O’Reilly of Carlow Weather. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Government is set to pilot a new digital age-verification system aimed at strengthening online protections for children. Minister for Communications Patrick O'Donovan says the tool will be vital in tackling harmful content and improving online safety. We discuss the implications with Fianna Fáil TD Malcolm Byrne, Social Democrats TD Sinead Gibney, and Adrian Weckler, Tech Editor with the Irish and Sunday Independent.Later, hospitals across the country tighten visitor restrictions as a new flu strain hits “fast and hard,” raising concerns about mounting pressure on the health system. Professor Christine Loscher, Immunologist at DCU, breaks down what this means for the weeks ahead. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On The Tonight Show with Fionnán Sheahan: From ‘vetocracy to democracy’ - the government’s new Accelerating Infrastructure Report and Action Plan promises a cultural shift in Irish planning. We ask whether these reforms can finally rebalance individual rights to object with the need to deliver major public projects.And as the Herzog Park controversy reignites debate over historical links and colonial origins in place names, we explore whether Ireland is entering a wider national discussion about how we commemorate our past.🏛️ Ryan O’Meara TD, Fianna Fail🎓 Orla Hegarty, Architect, Assistant Professor UCD 📰 Louise Burne, Political Correspondent, Irish Examiner 💼 Michael O’Flynn, CEO & Chairman, O’Flynn Group 📰 Ronan McGreevy, Author and journalist, The Irish Times Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On The Tonight Show with Fionnán Sheahan: Ireland hosts a wartime president as Volodymyr Zelensky arrives for a state visit, coinciding with reports that Moscow is weighing amendments to a US-backed peace plan.Plus, rumours are mounting that Gerry “The Monk” Hutch is preparing another bid for office in next year’s Dublin Central by-election.But what are his chances? 🏛️ Neale Richmond TD, Minister of State🏛️ Marie Sherlock TD, Labour 📰 Harry McGee, Political Correspondent, The Irish Times Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Cabinet approves tougher asylum and citizenship rules, while Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan promises more changes ahead.At the same time, Ireland’s fiscal watchdog warns the Government to save more and stop “budgeting like there’s no tomorrow.”Debating the impact: Niall Collins, Gary Gannon, Naomi O’Leary, and Seamus Coffey.Big decisions. Big consequences — on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
IOn this episode, the cost of living surges back into focus as the price of home heating oil jumps by €80 in a single month, bringing the average cost of a 1,000-litre fill to around €980 — more than €200 higher than across the border. Fionnán Sheahan is joined by first-time TDs Catherine Callaghan (Fine Gael), Louis O’Hara (Sinn Féin), and Eoghan Kenny (Labour) to debate the pressure on households and what solutions are actually on the table.As the show marks one year since the general election, our panel reflects on what has — and hasn’t — been achieved, and the realities of delivering on political promises from inside the Dáil.Later, with Ukraine backing a US-supported peace plan and Russia signalling it may walk away, we assess whether a historic breakthrough is within reach. We go live to Washington for the latest with correspondent Toni Waterman.A year of political promises, surging household costs, and shifting geopolitics — all on The Tonight Show. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States
cuddly cuddihily can't mask his bias ...he's a government establishment hack ....
Jesus this presenter is appalling he has allowed unchallenged twice party political broadcasts from the humphries camp ... a 🤡 like O murichu ranting and raving just shows how biased this crass trash TV is .... awful shite ...
Sheean the man whos mother still cuts his hair (badly i might add) can never resist a swipe at his obsession the shinners 😂no wonder print media is in the shithouse with hacks like him... Ps i know a good barber 💈 if hes interested maybe give his mom a rest
Anti social behaviour is quiet simply out of control and what's more alarming is the Gardaí don't seem to take it seriously