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		<title>Early Edition </title>
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		<copyright>The Irish Times </copyright>
		<itunes:keywords>Daily News ,Irish News,The Irish Times ,Dublin ,Newspaper ,Top Stories ,Crime ,Politics ,Society ,World News ,News Digest ,Morning</itunes:keywords>
		<itunes:author>The Irish Times </itunes:author>
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		<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A morning news update from The Irish Times. Our top stories five days a week.</p><br><p>Produced in association with MSD.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>A morning news update from The Irish Times. Our top stories five days a week.</p><br><p>Produced in association with MSD.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
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			<itunes:name>The Irish Times </itunes:name>
			<itunes:email>dconlon@irishtimes.com</itunes:email>
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				<title>Early Edition </title>
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			<title>Valerie’s law, mortgages, oil shocks, and French wine going to waste</title>
			<itunes:title>Valerie’s law, mortgages, oil shocks, and French wine going to waste</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:19</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>valeries-law-mortgages-oil-shocks-and-french-wine-going-to-w</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Plans to strip parental rights from killers are to be pressed ahead with by the Department of Justice despite the State’s child and family agency raising concerns that the legislation was unconstitutional.</p><br><p>The 1970s oil price shocks toppled governments, led to recessions and precipitated dramatic shifts in monetary policy (interest rates were hiked to more than 16 per cent in the United States). We’re not at that stage... yet, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/04/03/were-not-experiencing-a-1970s-style-oil-price-shock-just-yet-but-things-are-getting-worse/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">writes Eoin Burke Kennedy.</a></p><br><p>Switching could save you over €10,000 if your mortgage fixed rate is coming to an end.</p><br><p>Tens of millions of euros worth of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">French&nbsp;</a>red&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">wine&nbsp;</a>and rosé that vineyards cannot sell is to be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/04/03/france-faces-wine-hangover-as-falling-sales-force-emergency-measures/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">distilled into ethanol</a> and industrial alcohol, to avoid a collapse in prices for French winegrowers.</p><br><p><em>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</em></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Plans to strip parental rights from killers are to be pressed ahead with by the Department of Justice despite the State’s child and family agency raising concerns that the legislation was unconstitutional.</p><br><p>The 1970s oil price shocks toppled governments, led to recessions and precipitated dramatic shifts in monetary policy (interest rates were hiked to more than 16 per cent in the United States). We’re not at that stage... yet, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/04/03/were-not-experiencing-a-1970s-style-oil-price-shock-just-yet-but-things-are-getting-worse/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">writes Eoin Burke Kennedy.</a></p><br><p>Switching could save you over €10,000 if your mortgage fixed rate is coming to an end.</p><br><p>Tens of millions of euros worth of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/france/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">French&nbsp;</a>red&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/wine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">wine&nbsp;</a>and rosé that vineyards cannot sell is to be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/04/03/france-faces-wine-hangover-as-falling-sales-force-emergency-measures/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">distilled into ethanol</a> and industrial alcohol, to avoid a collapse in prices for French winegrowers.</p><br><p><em>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</em></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Data centres, dogfighting Air Corps, dodgy boxes, and gold mining in the north</title>
			<itunes:title>Data centres, dogfighting Air Corps, dodgy boxes, and gold mining in the north</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:06</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>data-centres-dogfighting-air-corps-dodgy-boxes-and-gold-mini</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Fear of electricity blackouts has prompted Irish authorities to set down new protocols for data centre operators.</p><br><p>Jet fuel supplies could be disrupted during the summer months if the war in Iran continues, aviation bosses have warned.</p><br><p>The Irish <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/air-corps/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Air Corps</a> is hiring civilian contractors to teach its pilots to dogfight, after losing the ability to conduct <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/04/02/its-not-top-gun-air-corps-pilots-to-receive-dogfighting-combat-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">in-house combat training</a>.</p><br><p>Make it easier to watch live sport in one place and you’ll do away with dodgy boxes, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/04/30/make-it-easier-to-watch-live-sport-in-one-place-and-youll-do-away-with-dodgy-boxes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">argues Emmet Ryan</a>.</p><br><p>At a time when investors are piling money into gold, a battle to oppose a potential <a href="https://irishtimes.com/environment/2026/04/02/reconvened-inquiry-into-sperrin-mountains-gold-mining-plan-looks-to-decide-17-year-battle/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">goldmine in the North</a> is entering its final phase.</p><br><p><em>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</em></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Fear of electricity blackouts has prompted Irish authorities to set down new protocols for data centre operators.</p><br><p>Jet fuel supplies could be disrupted during the summer months if the war in Iran continues, aviation bosses have warned.</p><br><p>The Irish <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/air-corps/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Air Corps</a> is hiring civilian contractors to teach its pilots to dogfight, after losing the ability to conduct <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/04/02/its-not-top-gun-air-corps-pilots-to-receive-dogfighting-combat-training/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">in-house combat training</a>.</p><br><p>Make it easier to watch live sport in one place and you’ll do away with dodgy boxes, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/04/30/make-it-easier-to-watch-live-sport-in-one-place-and-youll-do-away-with-dodgy-boxes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">argues Emmet Ryan</a>.</p><br><p>At a time when investors are piling money into gold, a battle to oppose a potential <a href="https://irishtimes.com/environment/2026/04/02/reconvened-inquiry-into-sperrin-mountains-gold-mining-plan-looks-to-decide-17-year-battle/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">goldmine in the North</a> is entering its final phase.</p><br><p><em>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</em></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>U.S. military aircraft in Europe, severe weather in 2025 and treatment of patients at Bloomfield Hospital</title>
			<itunes:title>U.S. military aircraft in Europe, severe weather in 2025 and treatment of patients at Bloomfield Hospital</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:52</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Italy and Spain have blocked U.S. military aircraft en route to Iran from using their air bases causing a rift with the Trump administration.</p><br><p>It could take months for oil production and exports to recover after the war in the Middle East ends.</p><br><p>Last year saw the second warmest year on record, and more drought and higher temperatures than in recent years, according to the Climate Change Advisory Council.</p><br><p>Bloomfield Hospital in south Dublin halted admissions after The Irish Times published an investigation into the mistreatment of patients.</p><br><p>A teenager charged with engaging in sexual acts with a 14-year-old girl when he was 15 has lost a challenge to the constitutionality of a law preventing him from advancing a “Romeo and Juliet” consent defence.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Italy and Spain have blocked U.S. military aircraft en route to Iran from using their air bases causing a rift with the Trump administration.</p><br><p>It could take months for oil production and exports to recover after the war in the Middle East ends.</p><br><p>Last year saw the second warmest year on record, and more drought and higher temperatures than in recent years, according to the Climate Change Advisory Council.</p><br><p>Bloomfield Hospital in south Dublin halted admissions after The Irish Times published an investigation into the mistreatment of patients.</p><br><p>A teenager charged with engaging in sexual acts with a 14-year-old girl when he was 15 has lost a challenge to the constitutionality of a law preventing him from advancing a “Romeo and Juliet” consent defence.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Cash missing from Garda stations, mortgage approval figures and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon</title>
			<itunes:title>Cash missing from Garda stations, mortgage approval figures and Israeli forces in southern Lebanon</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:24</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>There have been 13 incidents or allegations of money going missing from Garda stations between 2020 and 2025, the Dáil’s Public Accounts Committee has been told.</p><br><p>The Church of Ireland says it’s less likely to rent out vacant rectories and curates’ houses due to rental reforms on landlords. </p><br><p>New figures show the value of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mortgages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mortgage</a> approvals reached almost €1.2 billion in February, up 10 per cent on the same period in 2025.</p><br><p>Sally Hayden reports from southern Lebanon where Israeli forces have been instructed to expand the area which they control.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>There have been 13 incidents or allegations of money going missing from Garda stations between 2020 and 2025, the Dáil’s Public Accounts Committee has been told.</p><br><p>The Church of Ireland says it’s less likely to rent out vacant rectories and curates’ houses due to rental reforms on landlords. </p><br><p>New figures show the value of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/mortgages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">mortgage</a> approvals reached almost €1.2 billion in February, up 10 per cent on the same period in 2025.</p><br><p>Sally Hayden reports from southern Lebanon where Israeli forces have been instructed to expand the area which they control.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>National Concert Hall, auto-enrolment pensions and children’s mental health waiting lists</title>
			<itunes:title>National Concert Hall, auto-enrolment pensions and children’s mental health waiting lists</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:07</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>national-concert-hall-auto-enrolment-pensions-and-childrens</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCfFXWa45bbvWc1r4k/UhMszQd9LJ5A9FLF4N5thr1ZUG25D244w+oR4JZbYdhR/yNVZfMk/iQMRDJZ2t+4kWbPcezIXxJGZzmQz1snbY7DEBXrAr69BgT5wmXGDrMjZEckDoyhxljGUvrOmqjskEkj6h7UYt2ar5um9hJTUlCxzNfDdJe9VxWRTnFKSz/VNVpHt3lltLgCnMFVa34kptIMU]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The National Concert Hall is embroiled in a row over a decision by one of its officials to cancel a booking for a fundraiser by the Irish branch of an Israeli ambulance charity, which it has reversed.</p><br><p>It’s been revealed that more than 6,600 employers have not yet signed up to pensions auto-enrolment scheme four months after registration opened.</p><br><p>Many swimming pools across Ireland are aging and many have closed altogether. There are around 100 swimming pools at risk of closing in the coming years which could leaving many communities without a public facility.</p><br><p>Talks between Iran and the US will take place in the coming days, according to the foreign minister of Pakistan.</p><br><p>A quarter of children on the waiting list for mental health services were waiting more than nine months to be seen at the end of 2025.</p><br><p>The PSNI is running a scheme known as “kid’s courts” which will offer drivers caught outside a school a choice between three penalty points and going in to face a panel of 11-year-olds.</p><br><p>Denise O’Connor writes about the best practices for managing a home renovation.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The National Concert Hall is embroiled in a row over a decision by one of its officials to cancel a booking for a fundraiser by the Irish branch of an Israeli ambulance charity, which it has reversed.</p><br><p>It’s been revealed that more than 6,600 employers have not yet signed up to pensions auto-enrolment scheme four months after registration opened.</p><br><p>Many swimming pools across Ireland are aging and many have closed altogether. There are around 100 swimming pools at risk of closing in the coming years which could leaving many communities without a public facility.</p><br><p>Talks between Iran and the US will take place in the coming days, according to the foreign minister of Pakistan.</p><br><p>A quarter of children on the waiting list for mental health services were waiting more than nine months to be seen at the end of 2025.</p><br><p>The PSNI is running a scheme known as “kid’s courts” which will offer drivers caught outside a school a choice between three penalty points and going in to face a panel of 11-year-olds.</p><br><p>Denise O’Connor writes about the best practices for managing a home renovation.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Heartbreak for Ireland in Prague, an unfinished housing development in Co Tipperary and delays to the Covid Evaluation </title>
			<itunes:title>Heartbreak for Ireland in Prague, an unfinished housing development in Co Tipperary and delays to the Covid Evaluation </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:29</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69c5c1aac2759aa9b1dc8101</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>heartbreak-for-ireland-in-prague-an-unfinished-housing-devel</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCfE+XCyJVFNQo8hcCbvI3pY1vO/N1Ei/IPryYsCbyROa3CkApsMwFObig9GCuxvEmrxM7KsavF5A4EnOMaFLJBR805Jm1bdj9cGw8tFeoj93XS6NSl1ZWppI7sa6epjR4JXpQsTTXktrhCprr4GioON9g7d6uCrqNACiUNgdRglRKIW6QbPn2hh9bCMFxnQdLckACEQdee9fnKSMBRZDcFF]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Ireland&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;progress in the World Cup&nbsp;qualifiers&nbsp;and&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be in America this summer after losing to the Czech Republic on penalties.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Federation of Ireland has given its support to an International Olympic Committee’s&nbsp;decision to ban transgender women from&nbsp;female events at the Games.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Irish Times visits a housing development in County Tipperary which has laid unfinished for&nbsp;nearly 20&nbsp;years.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Two banks took out judgement&nbsp;mortgages&nbsp;against the house demolished in Co. Meath this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Bereaved families of residents who died in care homes during the Covid-19 pandemic say&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;frustrated at delays to the Covid Evaluation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Ireland&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;progress in the World Cup&nbsp;qualifiers&nbsp;and&nbsp;won’t&nbsp;be in America this summer after losing to the Czech Republic on penalties.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The&nbsp;Olympic&nbsp;Federation of Ireland has given its support to an International Olympic Committee’s&nbsp;decision to ban transgender women from&nbsp;female events at the Games.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Irish Times visits a housing development in County Tipperary which has laid unfinished for&nbsp;nearly 20&nbsp;years.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Two banks took out judgement&nbsp;mortgages&nbsp;against the house demolished in Co. Meath this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Bereaved families of residents who died in care homes during the Covid-19 pandemic say&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;frustrated at delays to the Covid Evaluation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Where are Martina and Ammi Burke, modular homes, and World Cup playoff in Prague</title>
			<itunes:title>Where are Martina and Ammi Burke, modular homes, and World Cup playoff in Prague</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:04</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/where-are-martina-and-ammi-burke-modular-homes-and-world-cup</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69c43a70fe9984dbaeaeb9fb</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>where-are-martina-and-ammi-burke-modular-homes-and-world-cup</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCf15lUhCysjGxlNqjheL5BshyQeilYH3oRYLk6mjBylK145G1kLN5vWsTKAhN8+/h02Uf02EiMC0ICeZWSvzSSPdPoe3zz+ErGsx2B78O4hW1cSvAyKeIn/8BYzFBrZEzhPZV4UwktT/HGthw+4PV9xdyyhIyqOCquQMewi8XSxFmnXo7g8rm3r/D0hobFDDjoNjUUL3SQ3Kjs7r8Ul9Jx9]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Three weeks after a judge ordered their arrest and committal to prison, Martina and Ammi Burke have still not been located and jailed. They were found guilty of contempt of court in the High Court on the 4th of March - over their conduct during a February hearing relating to Enoch Burke.</p><br><p>The cost of fuel on forecourts around the country has started to fall reflecting the excise cuts to petrol and diesel. But our price watch editor Conor Pope has identified significant variations depending on where you are in the country.</p><br><p>Terms such as “prefab” and “rapid build” should be avoided when discussing “modern methods of construction” for housing in order to counter negative perceptions of its use, according to research funded by the State’s Housing Agency.</p><br><p>Thousands of Ireland fans have touched down in Prague ahead of tonight's World Cup playoff. Jack Power has been chatting to some who've landed in the Czech captial ahead of the game.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Three weeks after a judge ordered their arrest and committal to prison, Martina and Ammi Burke have still not been located and jailed. They were found guilty of contempt of court in the High Court on the 4th of March - over their conduct during a February hearing relating to Enoch Burke.</p><br><p>The cost of fuel on forecourts around the country has started to fall reflecting the excise cuts to petrol and diesel. But our price watch editor Conor Pope has identified significant variations depending on where you are in the country.</p><br><p>Terms such as “prefab” and “rapid build” should be avoided when discussing “modern methods of construction” for housing in order to counter negative perceptions of its use, according to research funded by the State’s Housing Agency.</p><br><p>Thousands of Ireland fans have touched down in Prague ahead of tonight's World Cup playoff. Jack Power has been chatting to some who've landed in the Czech captial ahead of the game.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Rogue dentists, presidential pardons, and hogging the overtaking lanes</title>
			<itunes:title>Rogue dentists, presidential pardons, and hogging the overtaking lanes</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 25 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:15</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/rogue-dentists-presidential-pardons-and-hogging-the-overtaki</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69c2ee21d832f1da9337e17a</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>rogue-dentists-presidential-pardons-and-hogging-the-overtaki</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>An <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2026/03/25/unregistered-dentist-offered-treatment-to-patients-from-sittingroom-of-dublin-apartment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">unregistered dentist</a> was offering patients treatments, including X-rays, in the sittingroom of a Dublin apartment, the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dental-council/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish Dental Council</a> has said.</p><br><p>The State will no longer issue pardons for people convicted by the British-controlled justice system, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/03/25/jim-ocallaghan-pre-1922-presidential-pardons-make-no-sense/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">writes</a> the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.</p><br><p>Children are being <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2026/03/25/children-being-groomed-into-criminality-from-the-age-of-six-in-deprived-areas-report-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">groomed into criminality</a> from the age of six in deprived areas where “there is an endless supply” of youths to serve the drugs trade, a report by the Irish Penal Reform Trust has found.</p><br><p>A man has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/03/25/were-lost-without-it-theft-of-familys-car-has-huge-impact-on-son-with-special-needs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">appealed for help</a> in finding a car stolen from outside his family’s Dublin home, the loss of which has led to a “massive” and unwelcome routine change for his son who has special needs.</p><br><p>Is there an element of motorway driving that grinds your gears? John in Dublin 2 is glad people hog the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2026/03/25/left-alone-in-the-left-lane/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">overtaking lanes</a> on motorways because it makes him feel like he has his own personal bus lane.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>An <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2026/03/25/unregistered-dentist-offered-treatment-to-patients-from-sittingroom-of-dublin-apartment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">unregistered dentist</a> was offering patients treatments, including X-rays, in the sittingroom of a Dublin apartment, the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dental-council/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish Dental Council</a> has said.</p><br><p>The State will no longer issue pardons for people convicted by the British-controlled justice system, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/03/25/jim-ocallaghan-pre-1922-presidential-pardons-make-no-sense/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">writes</a> the Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan.</p><br><p>Children are being <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2026/03/25/children-being-groomed-into-criminality-from-the-age-of-six-in-deprived-areas-report-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">groomed into criminality</a> from the age of six in deprived areas where “there is an endless supply” of youths to serve the drugs trade, a report by the Irish Penal Reform Trust has found.</p><br><p>A man has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/03/25/were-lost-without-it-theft-of-familys-car-has-huge-impact-on-son-with-special-needs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">appealed for help</a> in finding a car stolen from outside his family’s Dublin home, the loss of which has led to a “massive” and unwelcome routine change for his son who has special needs.</p><br><p>Is there an element of motorway driving that grinds your gears? John in Dublin 2 is glad people hog the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2026/03/25/left-alone-in-the-left-lane/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">overtaking lanes</a> on motorways because it makes him feel like he has his own personal bus lane.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Russian arms manufacturing, cost of living measures and driving test delays </title>
			<itunes:title>Russian arms manufacturing, cost of living measures and driving test delays </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:56</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/russian-arms-manufacturing-cost-of-living-measures-and-drivi</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69c1a89a1861d127d5cf8197</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>russian-arms-manufacturing-cost-of-living-measures-and-drivi</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCeCWaE9mS+HC/Kq2dBp7PnDcDmcjthIyjRaavUOgpFQINc8cbbwI/znaCkT7EIT6gGyLVHI49bYZMTTVxeGZ9zE+WRY1VCC2y643RyYUlXNI68C8qih5bdy9uzGml8nPWe4Cr3h4htOR94BJqfIeTWoeMtPaAkkJPE9V1Hj9ud1Zdqk40fsBQTDUVPH9Ko6ngsWLCcKtU51Mb063qwEHMTR]]></acast:settings>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Irish Times can reveal that the&nbsp;Aughinish&nbsp;Alumina plant in Co Limerick is supplying Russian smelters whose aluminium ends up with a trading firm that then provides materials to dozens of Russian arms manufacturers.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The cabinet is meeting this morning to finalise measures to help with the cost of living aimed at controlling inflation rising because of the war in Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Some children in the care system have been sexually groomed and abused according to a report by the Ombudsman for Children’s Office.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The family of Natalie McNally, 32, say she was the greatest joy of their lives following the conviction of Stephen McCullagh, 36, for her murder in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Learner drivers in some parts of the country are waiting twice the national target to be called for their driving test.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Irish Times can reveal that the&nbsp;Aughinish&nbsp;Alumina plant in Co Limerick is supplying Russian smelters whose aluminium ends up with a trading firm that then provides materials to dozens of Russian arms manufacturers.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The cabinet is meeting this morning to finalise measures to help with the cost of living aimed at controlling inflation rising because of the war in Iran.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Some children in the care system have been sexually groomed and abused according to a report by the Ombudsman for Children’s Office.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The family of Natalie McNally, 32, say she was the greatest joy of their lives following the conviction of Stephen McCullagh, 36, for her murder in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Learner drivers in some parts of the country are waiting twice the national target to be called for their driving test.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Rising seas, the cost of living, and replacing stolen bicycles</title>
			<itunes:title>Rising seas, the cost of living, and replacing stolen bicycles</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 06:49:54 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:11</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/rising-seas-the-cost-of-living-and-replacing-stolen-bicycles</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69c03706007cdcf83f756c1a</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>rising-seas-the-cost-of-living-and-replacing-stolen-bicycles</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCezn7w/Xrl3aaFgB4j5B5mpnhsbg7El8bzXST/aJu8Q2CfI2rO5iiHF6LxZRTRHSXHh55YNqbJWXR1AsvgXBnoIJJIR6muw+e2br6ZgTy2K0d82mi/ourOIjyTH5oMs5V357drrclYLfKEtef3CT+RFI1Uoj+1BG+RYeN61k7ec+NT11FG47qqfQJq07weRkyN8rlzcPmGgFPi7AoYFmqrC]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The World Meteorological Organisation has warned that Earth’s climate is swinging increasingly out of balance, and there are potentially severe consequences for Ireland.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The government is expected to agree today measures to try to control rising costs.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland has published a report saying&nbsp;people coming here on general work permits are routinely exploited by employers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Tributes have been paid to the broadcast Michael Lyster who has died at the age of 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Fingal County Council is beginning a new scheme to replace bicycles for young people which it says can help keep them active and give them independence.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The World Meteorological Organisation has warned that Earth’s climate is swinging increasingly out of balance, and there are potentially severe consequences for Ireland.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The government is expected to agree today measures to try to control rising costs.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Migrant Rights Centre of Ireland has published a report saying&nbsp;people coming here on general work permits are routinely exploited by employers.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Tributes have been paid to the broadcast Michael Lyster who has died at the age of 71.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Fingal County Council is beginning a new scheme to replace bicycles for young people which it says can help keep them active and give them independence.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Energy prices surge, the government considers measures to help and AI in the workplace </title>
			<itunes:title>Energy prices surge, the government considers measures to help and AI in the workplace </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:51</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69bc6fbf007cdcf83f888182/media.mp3" length="8508813" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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			<itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/energy-prices-surge-the-government-considers-measures-to-hel</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69bc6fbf007cdcf83f888182</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>energy-prices-surge-the-government-considers-measures-to-hel</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCe1l53Z+l4sxPS1w6LC4N87wkLl+JbiAFNxlMcIcAfl/qszSOjwQAGbhmtIZrxbSCmkk7Ec1FIE9lRvJSFuq9LGSr84LM+F+9cngb6OHzg/l/5VStn1vtq3O3h/Zcv/7HSrSlyfo9tvR1Fp3lbOXOhYPO5tUsFglzgUcShZfpB5NUSq+HaZ/2ycUOyS/JXlvlaeZQ9PrIXCiTK36PaOLYm+]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Oil and gas prices have surged following attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East. EU leaders have been considering steps to secure Europe’s&nbsp;supply&nbsp;and the Irish government is expected to announce measures next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Monthly payments to those&nbsp;accommodating&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/ukraine-war/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ukrainian</a>&nbsp;people in their spare rooms or second homes will be wound down over the next year.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Survivors of abuse at schools run by the Irish&nbsp;Spiritans, formerly the Holy Ghost congregation,&nbsp;have told The Irish Times&nbsp;its&nbsp;really important&nbsp;that people come forward and tell their stories.&nbsp;</p><br><p>AI is now a non-negotiable skill for employees. How can people ensure&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;using it&nbsp;effectively?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Oil and gas prices have surged following attacks on energy infrastructure in the Middle East. EU leaders have been considering steps to secure Europe’s&nbsp;supply&nbsp;and the Irish government is expected to announce measures next week.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Monthly payments to those&nbsp;accommodating&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/ukraine-war/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ukrainian</a>&nbsp;people in their spare rooms or second homes will be wound down over the next year.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Survivors of abuse at schools run by the Irish&nbsp;Spiritans, formerly the Holy Ghost congregation,&nbsp;have told The Irish Times&nbsp;its&nbsp;really important&nbsp;that people come forward and tell their stories.&nbsp;</p><br><p>AI is now a non-negotiable skill for employees. How can people ensure&nbsp;they’re&nbsp;using it&nbsp;effectively?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Gardaí searching for couple ordered to demolish their house, Gerry Adams in court and Ireland’s carbon budget goal </title>
			<itunes:title>Gardaí searching for couple ordered to demolish their house, Gerry Adams in court and Ireland’s carbon budget goal </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>11:12</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69baf6e09f7cc5ed039c0297/media.mp3" length="16163780" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/gardai-searching-for-couple-ordered-to-demolish-their-house</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69baf6e09f7cc5ed039c0297</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>gardai-searching-for-couple-ordered-to-demolish-their-house</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCctpS3Iw0zVI20QXk2CW3tLIT4caFQDia1ppx/B7vPDRXlmElVrJzj2KvD2ls4UYPyCPFwf4dr+NWaks1Ud/X8N0qWn7Re3WkH+W9oNHCTiz07IZ4GYuOz9BIyIK55hnLtjFXRMVgjZtvfgvI9Ihena1gAmAcUUuUZKswZWOpgmTaVPlMhbaHLeggDjxFgbL+p3kFsXDlH/mHyBp00j9W1Z]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Gardaí have been searching for a couple in County Meath who were ordered to demolish their house because it was built without planning permission. Chris and Rose Murray have been fighting orders to tear it down for nearly 20 years.</p><br><p>Over two days Gerry Adams has been cross examined by a lawyer representing three victims of IRA bombings of the Old Bailey court house in 1973, and two separate attacks on Manchester and the London Docklands in 1996. He has denied culpability.</p><br><p>An aircraft chartered by the Trump administration stopped to refuel at Shannon Airport on St Patricks Day while deporting up to 15 Ukrainians from the US.</p><br><p>A new report published this morning has said Ireland’s dependence on a handful of multinational companies to drive technological progress and productivity has left the Irish economy exposed.</p><br><p>Brian Ó Gallachóir, professor at the University College Cork estimates Ireland has significantly closed the gap on its carbon budget goal for the period ending in 2025.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Gardaí have been searching for a couple in County Meath who were ordered to demolish their house because it was built without planning permission. Chris and Rose Murray have been fighting orders to tear it down for nearly 20 years.</p><br><p>Over two days Gerry Adams has been cross examined by a lawyer representing three victims of IRA bombings of the Old Bailey court house in 1973, and two separate attacks on Manchester and the London Docklands in 1996. He has denied culpability.</p><br><p>An aircraft chartered by the Trump administration stopped to refuel at Shannon Airport on St Patricks Day while deporting up to 15 Ukrainians from the US.</p><br><p>A new report published this morning has said Ireland’s dependence on a handful of multinational companies to drive technological progress and productivity has left the Irish economy exposed.</p><br><p>Brian Ó Gallachóir, professor at the University College Cork estimates Ireland has significantly closed the gap on its carbon budget goal for the period ending in 2025.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Micheál Martin at the Oval Office, US investment in Ireland and the tricolour in a United Ireland </title>
			<itunes:title>Micheál Martin at the Oval Office, US investment in Ireland and the tricolour in a United Ireland </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>11:19</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69b84d037ebe44dc8b1fd077/media.mp3" length="16334850" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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			<itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/micheal-martin-at-the-oval-office-us-investment-in-ireland-a</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69b84d037ebe44dc8b1fd077</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>micheal-martin-at-the-oval-office-us-investment-in-ireland-a</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCcF8YaEW4nNpMzuCfs7IirME3lrga05f9Q8pl8xqPrSjoSIAVb0kGlaMXKVd7wEZctsL+v5iBP03SIBpdG+ZVE4uHhOpXCAZuYebzeou92DW7A/pNNqppiypBO8naKo/YodBOt8TSGB/Hjf6KIlNWzJZq4Oe+aKImARFHUxdaiaJr3btVAhabnilOGcEKv0YD2x8FGURB5TJSWt2WoYF++d]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Taoiseach&nbsp;Micheál Martin will visit the White House today will issues including Iran,&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;and economic ties on the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>A letter from the US Ambassador to Ireland to Simon Harris warns that US businesses are reassessing their investment in Ireland.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The number of Gardaí who declared domestic violence orders against them increased last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Gerry Adams is expected to take the stand in the High Court in&nbsp;London later.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The tricolour flag, should it remain&nbsp;in the event of&nbsp;a United Ireland?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Taoiseach&nbsp;Micheál Martin will visit the White House today will issues including Iran,&nbsp;Gaza&nbsp;and economic ties on the table.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>A letter from the US Ambassador to Ireland to Simon Harris warns that US businesses are reassessing their investment in Ireland.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The number of Gardaí who declared domestic violence orders against them increased last year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>Gerry Adams is expected to take the stand in the High Court in&nbsp;London later.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>The tricolour flag, should it remain&nbsp;in the event of&nbsp;a United Ireland?&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Iran war displaces millions, homelessness in Dublin and the new Elvis Presley movie</title>
			<itunes:title>Iran war displaces millions, homelessness in Dublin and the new Elvis Presley movie</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:38 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:30</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69b323e66250eadca2e65af4/media.mp3" length="15152848" type="audio/mpeg"/>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">69b323e66250eadca2e65af4</guid>
			<itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/iran-war-displaces-millions-homelessness-in-dublin-and-the-n</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69b323e66250eadca2e65af4</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>iran-war-displaces-millions-homelessness-in-dublin-and-the-n</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCd2LKqwvAjRgAcZHx2pe9UxjVdvdpSngM7NyM4FN4J25c3bYE+3eBr1yQQWU0dj0JdJZKIL+vNfQSQKcn7V5+H4hAP2gOFYUxyrHslFIdnQLW/B+bTkI76sxQA9Yohc5tXUq/d5f09hP9sHKRX69YW16oLByk/yIWEv/iPNNUWn0oSdP64OE13HC70xQaaVLjAga7VyWN8qrKVp6gLM/ceP]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Iran says it will continue to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route, according to a statement attributed to the country’s new Supreme Leader. Meanwhile, the UN says the conflict has displaced more than 3.2million people.</p><br><p>The Dublin Region Homeless Executive, Mary Hayes, has warned lack of emergency accommodation for families could lead to those with children having to sleep on the streets.</p><br><p>HSE officials have warned against the use of drugs on St Patrick’s Day, having found extremely potent, and heavily laced powders and crystals on the market.</p><br><p>The body which represents officers in the Defence Forces has said it won’t hit its interim recruitment target of 9,700 personnel until 2031, and the government’s target of 11,000 personnel is “a fantasy”.</p><br><p>Researchers from Trinity College Dublin say green technologies like solar panels, electric vehicles and heat pumps are not accessible to low-income households.</p><br><p>The historian Diarmaid Ferriter gives his thoughts on a new film depicting one of the 20th century’s greatest artists, Elvis Presley.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Iran says it will continue to block the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global shipping route, according to a statement attributed to the country’s new Supreme Leader. Meanwhile, the UN says the conflict has displaced more than 3.2million people.</p><br><p>The Dublin Region Homeless Executive, Mary Hayes, has warned lack of emergency accommodation for families could lead to those with children having to sleep on the streets.</p><br><p>HSE officials have warned against the use of drugs on St Patrick’s Day, having found extremely potent, and heavily laced powders and crystals on the market.</p><br><p>The body which represents officers in the Defence Forces has said it won’t hit its interim recruitment target of 9,700 personnel until 2031, and the government’s target of 11,000 personnel is “a fantasy”.</p><br><p>Researchers from Trinity College Dublin say green technologies like solar panels, electric vehicles and heat pumps are not accessible to low-income households.</p><br><p>The historian Diarmaid Ferriter gives his thoughts on a new film depicting one of the 20th century’s greatest artists, Elvis Presley.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Taoiseach in Washington D.C., cost of living abroad and what’s the problem with virtue signalling?  </title>
			<itunes:title>Taoiseach in Washington D.C., cost of living abroad and what’s the problem with virtue signalling?  </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:30</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69b6fdbf4266c9b1c739f0e9/media.mp3" length="15152846" type="audio/mpeg"/>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">69b6fdbf4266c9b1c739f0e9</guid>
			<itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit>
			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/taoiseach-in-washington-dc-cost-of-living-abroad-and-whats-t</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69b6fdbf4266c9b1c739f0e9</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>taoiseach-in-washington-dc-cost-of-living-abroad-and-whats-t</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCdjqliyYvoJ7k0HdpJYpHtSE2DnIbxxYvxYMHjefIMR9nM03tf1Zzbr/UjT6rvPurwK9YvhCZKwRAnRTKgtn4w5v5I0V9WyRwbN1Szvyw1yn63bpg0S34AiMWheJ2f7FWRfwRZctLywFel5E3OQcq2zFSSUWL3s2cuCEE4mFBky1eav0koIIkAavBD0Sh8zdPhY2AQlpYHXSv9F84hpIbDf]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Taoiseach Micheál Martin is in Washington and begins the second day of his St. Patrick’s Day visit. He will attend the Irish Funds dinner later today meeting a network of people backing cultural and community projects in Ireland, and will visit the White House tomorrow.</p><br><p>As the world’s attention is focused on the Middle East, the war in Ukraine rages on. On today’s In The News podcast the Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun shares a story of hardship, particularly in the depths of winter.</p><br><p>The Women’s Coalition on Immigration claims there is a link between migrants and sexual violence. Irish Times political correspondent Ellen Coyne looks into their campaign after the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre raised concerns about efforts to “weaponise the issue of sexual violence”.</p><br><p>How does Dublin stack up against other major cities across the world when it comes to the cost of living? Conor Pope decided to find out.</p><br><p>Is virtue signalling on social media ultimately negative? Joe Humphrey’s writes today about the good and the bad.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Taoiseach Micheál Martin is in Washington and begins the second day of his St. Patrick’s Day visit. He will attend the Irish Funds dinner later today meeting a network of people backing cultural and community projects in Ireland, and will visit the White House tomorrow.</p><br><p>As the world’s attention is focused on the Middle East, the war in Ukraine rages on. On today’s In The News podcast the Ukrainian MP Inna Sovsun shares a story of hardship, particularly in the depths of winter.</p><br><p>The Women’s Coalition on Immigration claims there is a link between migrants and sexual violence. Irish Times political correspondent Ellen Coyne looks into their campaign after the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre raised concerns about efforts to “weaponise the issue of sexual violence”.</p><br><p>How does Dublin stack up against other major cities across the world when it comes to the cost of living? Conor Pope decided to find out.</p><br><p>Is virtue signalling on social media ultimately negative? Joe Humphrey’s writes today about the good and the bad.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Flooding trauma, new powers for Naval Service, and Atlanta Hawks’ strip club controversy</title>
			<itunes:title>Flooding trauma, new powers for Naval Service, and Atlanta Hawks’ strip club controversy</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:34</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69b1c524a9beefe722ee8e50</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>flooding-trauma-new-powers-for-naval-service-and-atlanta-haw</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>The psychological impact of flooding often lasts far longer than the physical damage caused, a new Irish study has found.</p><br><p>The Naval Service is to be given the authority to board vessels in Irish waters, under expanded powers being drafted by government in advance of Ireland’s EU presidency.</p><br><p>Dave Hannigan is writing about how the NBA in the United States got cold feet over proposed collaboration between the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/sport/2026/03/12/dave-hannigan-how-nba-got-cold-feet-over-proposed-tie-in-with-atlantas-famous-strip-club/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Atlanta Hawks and the city’s famous strip club</a>.</p><br><p>Patrick Freyne, having watched Louis Theroux’s new documentary “Inside the Manosphere”, ponders who were the male influencers of his era? Among them is Charlie Haughey. “He loved a good collab.”</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The psychological impact of flooding often lasts far longer than the physical damage caused, a new Irish study has found.</p><br><p>The Naval Service is to be given the authority to board vessels in Irish waters, under expanded powers being drafted by government in advance of Ireland’s EU presidency.</p><br><p>Dave Hannigan is writing about how the NBA in the United States got cold feet over proposed collaboration between the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/sport/2026/03/12/dave-hannigan-how-nba-got-cold-feet-over-proposed-tie-in-with-atlantas-famous-strip-club/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Atlanta Hawks and the city’s famous strip club</a>.</p><br><p>Patrick Freyne, having watched Louis Theroux’s new documentary “Inside the Manosphere”, ponders who were the male influencers of his era? Among them is Charlie Haughey. “He loved a good collab.”</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Nudification apps aren’t banned, Iran school bombing, and the Luas torched in Dublin riots</title>
			<itunes:title>Nudification apps aren’t banned, Iran school bombing, and the Luas torched in Dublin riots</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>11:45</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/nudification-apps-arent-banned-iran-school-bombing-and-the-l</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69b082ed57aaa944a9a4a1ef</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>nudification-apps-arent-banned-iran-school-bombing-and-the-l</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCcFAe0fnxBJy/1ju4Qxy1fh8gO4DvlGA40yms2g0/hOkcrfHIopjTygHFqGwwOPKFIai4SuTvs86Lx3UYCyl6ZshU3vqZdXI+g0wpRdT4DNPvF2V7FBe9cPn+SJMw/fY+MTxChctBRn531EcvruZjZksFqrqnOnYad80MMsaTafdagHzLgDVngHzh5bUm+4152eS/zJjDkFglaHNr07oAIv]]></acast:settings>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/artificial-intelligence/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Artificial intelligence</a> (AI) apps that “nudify” images of people without their consent are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2026/03/11/apps-creating-child-abuse-content-not-banned-under-existing-eu-law/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">not currently banned</a> under <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">European Union</a>regulations.</p><br><p>An Irish member of The New York Times’ visuals investigation team is challenging the Trump administration’s account of a missile strike on a primary school in Iran.</p><br><p>UAE ambassador to Ireland says “there are channels” of communication between law enforcement agencies in Dubai and An Garda Siochána here in relation to Daniel and Christy Kinahan.</p><br><p>Despite the hours Irish people spend scrolling online, a consumer study has found we’re not as adept at spotting <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/03/11/how-to-avoid-being-influenced-into-spending-your-hard-earned-money/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">influencer marketing</a> as we think.</p><br><p>The Luas tram - burnt out during Dublin riots of November 2023 - <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/03/11/luas-burnt-out-during-dublin-riots-arrives-home-after-5m-repairs-in-france/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has arrived home</a> after being repaired by specialist mechanics in France.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/artificial-intelligence/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Artificial intelligence</a> (AI) apps that “nudify” images of people without their consent are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2026/03/11/apps-creating-child-abuse-content-not-banned-under-existing-eu-law/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">not currently banned</a> under <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/european-union/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">European Union</a>regulations.</p><br><p>An Irish member of The New York Times’ visuals investigation team is challenging the Trump administration’s account of a missile strike on a primary school in Iran.</p><br><p>UAE ambassador to Ireland says “there are channels” of communication between law enforcement agencies in Dubai and An Garda Siochána here in relation to Daniel and Christy Kinahan.</p><br><p>Despite the hours Irish people spend scrolling online, a consumer study has found we’re not as adept at spotting <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/03/11/how-to-avoid-being-influenced-into-spending-your-hard-earned-money/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">influencer marketing</a> as we think.</p><br><p>The Luas tram - burnt out during Dublin riots of November 2023 - <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/03/11/luas-burnt-out-during-dublin-riots-arrives-home-after-5m-repairs-in-france/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has arrived home</a> after being repaired by specialist mechanics in France.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Rising energy costs, the Kinahan gang, and British military veterans open to troubles era charges</title>
			<itunes:title>Rising energy costs, the Kinahan gang, and British military veterans open to troubles era charges</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>11:23</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69af417aa2ae95013b18bc48</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>rising-energy-costs-the-kinahan-gang-and-british-military-ve</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Fuel has hit €2 a litre and it’s estimated the rise in energy costs brought on by the war in Iran could cost Irish households an extra thousand euro a year if it’s prolonged. What levers could the government pull to help keep costs down?</p><br><p>Sources in An Garda Síochána have told The Irish Times they believe the heads of the Kinahan drug cartel haven’t left the UAE since 2022.</p><br><p>New figures show the number of students applying to study health-related degrees has risen significantly this year.</p><br><p>Gerry Adams is at the High Court in London defending a civil case in which he’s accused of leading the IRA, which he denies.</p><br><p>Two former senior British military officers write in today’s Irish Times criticising legislation brought forward by the UK government which could open veterans to prosecution for alleged Troubles era crimes.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Fuel has hit €2 a litre and it’s estimated the rise in energy costs brought on by the war in Iran could cost Irish households an extra thousand euro a year if it’s prolonged. What levers could the government pull to help keep costs down?</p><br><p>Sources in An Garda Síochána have told The Irish Times they believe the heads of the Kinahan drug cartel haven’t left the UAE since 2022.</p><br><p>New figures show the number of students applying to study health-related degrees has risen significantly this year.</p><br><p>Gerry Adams is at the High Court in London defending a civil case in which he’s accused of leading the IRA, which he denies.</p><br><p>Two former senior British military officers write in today’s Irish Times criticising legislation brought forward by the UK government which could open veterans to prosecution for alleged Troubles era crimes.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Iranian regime chooses a new leader, fatalities on Ireland’s roads, and the cost of Storm Chandra</title>
			<itunes:title>Iranian regime chooses a new leader, fatalities on Ireland’s roads, and the cost of Storm Chandra</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 09 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:03</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/iranian-regime-chooses-a-new-leader-fatalities-on-irelands-r</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69add0b90722bbb60b9dbb78</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>iranian-regime-chooses-a-new-leader-fatalities-on-irelands-r</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Iran has said its assembly of experts has elected a new supreme leader. Israel has vowed to target the the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's successor.</p><br><p>The heads of the National Library, the National Museum and IMMA say they’re struggling to cover their pension bills and have asked the Government to step in.</p><br><p>Road safety campaigner and Irish Times columnist Sinead O’Sullivan has mapped fatalities on Ireland’s roads last year and writes today about five demands the campaign at stoproaddeaths.ie makes of politicians to tackle the issue.</p><br><p>The cost of repairs to infrastructure damaged by Storm Chandra could exceed €60 million.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Iran has said its assembly of experts has elected a new supreme leader. Israel has vowed to target the the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's successor.</p><br><p>The heads of the National Library, the National Museum and IMMA say they’re struggling to cover their pension bills and have asked the Government to step in.</p><br><p>Road safety campaigner and Irish Times columnist Sinead O’Sullivan has mapped fatalities on Ireland’s roads last year and writes today about five demands the campaign at stoproaddeaths.ie makes of politicians to tackle the issue.</p><br><p>The cost of repairs to infrastructure damaged by Storm Chandra could exceed €60 million.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Iran strikes intensify, a report into a dentist who defrauded the HSE and Six Nations returns </title>
			<itunes:title>Iran strikes intensify, a report into a dentist who defrauded the HSE and Six Nations returns </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:15</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/iran-strikes-intensify-a-report-into-a-dentist-who-defrauded</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a9e7667036d73902c05fdf</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>iran-strikes-intensify-a-report-into-a-dentist-who-defrauded</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Missile strikes across the middle east intensified on Thursday. In retaliation for US and Israeli attacks on targets across Iran, the regime launched rockets at US air bases and cities in various countries, and in a new development, it attacked Azerbaijan.&nbsp;</p><br><p>A long war in the Middle East will&nbsp;almost certainly&nbsp;impact&nbsp;inflation in Ireland. Our Consumer Affairs Correspondent Conor Pope writes today about the impact it could have.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>A patient of a dentist who defrauded the HSE out of thousands of&nbsp;Euro&nbsp;for treatments he never provided, has told the dental inspectorate she only went to him for dentures, despite him claiming payment for 19 extractions.&nbsp;</p><br><p>A&nbsp;lady&nbsp;has told The Irish Times she quit her job at Crumlin Children’s Hospital because congestion on the M7 and N7 left her with a two-hour&nbsp;commute in the morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>In the Six Nations, Ireland take on Wales at the Aviva Stadium.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Missile strikes across the middle east intensified on Thursday. In retaliation for US and Israeli attacks on targets across Iran, the regime launched rockets at US air bases and cities in various countries, and in a new development, it attacked Azerbaijan.&nbsp;</p><br><p>A long war in the Middle East will&nbsp;almost certainly&nbsp;impact&nbsp;inflation in Ireland. Our Consumer Affairs Correspondent Conor Pope writes today about the impact it could have.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>A patient of a dentist who defrauded the HSE out of thousands of&nbsp;Euro&nbsp;for treatments he never provided, has told the dental inspectorate she only went to him for dentures, despite him claiming payment for 19 extractions.&nbsp;</p><br><p>A&nbsp;lady&nbsp;has told The Irish Times she quit her job at Crumlin Children’s Hospital because congestion on the M7 and N7 left her with a two-hour&nbsp;commute in the morning.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><br><p>In the Six Nations, Ireland take on Wales at the Aviva Stadium.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA['Price gouging' oil companies, scrambler ban, and Jessie Buckley's 'problematic' dislike of cats]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA['Price gouging' oil companies, scrambler ban, and Jessie Buckley's 'problematic' dislike of cats]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:29</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/price-gouging-oil-companies-scrambler-ban-and-jessie-buckley</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a8bbc397f00280f0a2d3fd</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>price-gouging-oil-companies-scrambler-ban-and-jessie-buckley</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has been called in to investigate complaints of ‘price gouging’ after the cost of home heating oil rose by up to 50 per cent since the outbreak of the Iran crisis.</p><br><p>The Government has had the power since 2023 to impose an explicit ban on scramblers, but it did not move to enact regulations until shortly after Grace Lynch (16) was fatally injured by a scrambler in Finglas, Dublin in January.</p><br><p>A <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/disability/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">disabled</a> artist has said she is “back to worrying” about how she will be able to afford her <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/renting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rent</a> after receiving her last payment under the pilot <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/basic-income-for-the-arts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Basic Income for the Arts</a> (BIA) scheme.</p><br><p>Jessie Buckley is a marked woman now, after a November clip of her dissing cats went viral this week. Ed Power is among those wondering if the controversial take could scupper her chances of Oscar glory.</p><br><p>And speaking of cats, it’s all kicking off on the letters page today after a reader wrote in to express his dismay at proposals to allow pets on public transport.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission has been called in to investigate complaints of ‘price gouging’ after the cost of home heating oil rose by up to 50 per cent since the outbreak of the Iran crisis.</p><br><p>The Government has had the power since 2023 to impose an explicit ban on scramblers, but it did not move to enact regulations until shortly after Grace Lynch (16) was fatally injured by a scrambler in Finglas, Dublin in January.</p><br><p>A <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/disability/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">disabled</a> artist has said she is “back to worrying” about how she will be able to afford her <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/renting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rent</a> after receiving her last payment under the pilot <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/basic-income-for-the-arts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Basic Income for the Arts</a> (BIA) scheme.</p><br><p>Jessie Buckley is a marked woman now, after a November clip of her dissing cats went viral this week. Ed Power is among those wondering if the controversial take could scupper her chances of Oscar glory.</p><br><p>And speaking of cats, it’s all kicking off on the letters page today after a reader wrote in to express his dismay at proposals to allow pets on public transport.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Evacuating Irish from Middle East, energy prices, retrofits and a 'good Irish death']]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Evacuating Irish from Middle East, energy prices, retrofits and a 'good Irish death']]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:00</itunes:duration>
			<enclosure url="https://sphinx.acast.com/p/open/s/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/e/69a760362fb50a2e177d1bb1/media.mp3" length="12992096" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/evacuating-irish-from-middle-east-energy-prices-retrofits-an</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a760362fb50a2e177d1bb1</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>evacuating-irish-from-middle-east-energy-prices-retrofits-an</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCfZRmJIiguEUqgduFZoqIw3PqKhdR5zdXTielQt+It1ZgW1N+cvfan5G7sXab9s39s0n8bjaaoL/PEiMAD/8hEx8+NGePMyA4hXWOWEoLqB0zpf+SFmfkCE8L8xIQRoG4YUYKG/jT/ojX2EK5UASvfQ0ureRZUtOcoPnuMfV9BIAdua3Vp+KFj0GNOX7wqMGW1xzaO0cOIPluR4XU79Kkug]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Hundreds of Irish citizens trying to escape the unfolding conflict in the Middle East are to be offered an “assisted departure” on a government-chartered flight.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2026/03/03/cost-of-home-heating-oil-soars-in-ireland-since-attacks-on-iran/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Pope explains</a> the situation is very uncertain for passengers who are due to fly to, or via, the UAE and Qatar after March 10th. He also explains why fuel and home heating companies have increased their prices within days of the Iran crisis.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2026/03/04/fifth-of-secondary-schools-forced-to-drop-subjects-due-to-teacher-shortages-survey-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Half of secondary schools</a> had to restrict student access to at least one subject due to teacher shortages last year, according to research published by the Teachers Union of Ireland.</p><br><p>A chartered building surveyor <a href="https://irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/03/04/heres-how-to-improve-your-homes-ber-energy-rating-and-lower-your-bills/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">explains how to improve</a> your home’s Building Energy Rating and lower your bills.</p><br><p>Our London correspondent Mark Paul writes about efforts to give elderly Irish people living in Britain a “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/uk/2026/03/04/the-importance-of-ensuring-a-good-irish-death-in-britain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">good Irish death.”</a></p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Hundreds of Irish citizens trying to escape the unfolding conflict in the Middle East are to be offered an “assisted departure” on a government-chartered flight.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2026/03/03/cost-of-home-heating-oil-soars-in-ireland-since-attacks-on-iran/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Pope explains</a> the situation is very uncertain for passengers who are due to fly to, or via, the UAE and Qatar after March 10th. He also explains why fuel and home heating companies have increased their prices within days of the Iran crisis.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2026/03/04/fifth-of-secondary-schools-forced-to-drop-subjects-due-to-teacher-shortages-survey-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Half of secondary schools</a> had to restrict student access to at least one subject due to teacher shortages last year, according to research published by the Teachers Union of Ireland.</p><br><p>A chartered building surveyor <a href="https://irishtimes.com/property/residential/2026/03/04/heres-how-to-improve-your-homes-ber-energy-rating-and-lower-your-bills/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">explains how to improve</a> your home’s Building Energy Rating and lower your bills.</p><br><p>Our London correspondent Mark Paul writes about efforts to give elderly Irish people living in Britain a “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/uk/2026/03/04/the-importance-of-ensuring-a-good-irish-death-in-britain/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">good Irish death.”</a></p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>US strikes continue in Iran, microchipped dogs, and Irish language revival</title>
			<itunes:title>US strikes continue in Iran, microchipped dogs, and Irish language revival</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>12:25</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/us-strikes-continue-in-iran-microchipped-dogs-and-irish-lang</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a5faf499cbc5047739d334</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>us-strikes-continue-in-iran-microchipped-dogs-and-irish-lang</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>US and Israeli war planes have continued to strike targets in Iran, and Donald Trump has awarded the Congressional Medal of Honour to three servicemen killed in action.</p><br><p>Prices of energy, petrol and food could rise as a result of the conflict’s impact on oil production and global trade routes.</p><br><p>The number of people in Dublin cycling on a daily basis has risen by 50 per cent in the last two years.</p><br><p>Its 10 years this month since microchipping became mandatory for dogs.</p><br><p>A new survey suggests widespread support for increasing prominence of the Irish language in business and public life.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>US and Israeli war planes have continued to strike targets in Iran, and Donald Trump has awarded the Congressional Medal of Honour to three servicemen killed in action.</p><br><p>Prices of energy, petrol and food could rise as a result of the conflict’s impact on oil production and global trade routes.</p><br><p>The number of people in Dublin cycling on a daily basis has risen by 50 per cent in the last two years.</p><br><p>Its 10 years this month since microchipping became mandatory for dogs.</p><br><p>A new survey suggests widespread support for increasing prominence of the Irish language in business and public life.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Iran, income scams and justice for people convicted under historic anti-gay laws</title>
			<itunes:title>Iran, income scams and justice for people convicted under historic anti-gay laws</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>12:35</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/irans-supreme-leader-income-scams-and-justice-for-people-con</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a4a77547697ac80311481b</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>irans-supreme-leader-income-scams-and-justice-for-people-con</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Air raid sirens continue to sound in cities across the Middle East following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.</p><br><p>The number of patients on waiting lists for 18 months or longer rose in more than half of Ireland’s hospitals in 2025.</p><br><p>A victim who lost tens of thousands in an invoice redirection scam shares her story with The Irish Times.</p><br><p>People convicted under Ireland’s historic anti-gay laws deserve for their convictions to be ‘disregarded’ writes Brian Sheehan.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Air raid sirens continue to sound in cities across the Middle East following the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.</p><br><p>The number of patients on waiting lists for 18 months or longer rose in more than half of Ireland’s hospitals in 2025.</p><br><p>A victim who lost tens of thousands in an invoice redirection scam shares her story with The Irish Times.</p><br><p>People convicted under Ireland’s historic anti-gay laws deserve for their convictions to be ‘disregarded’ writes Brian Sheehan.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>DCC new building, University of Galway arts cuts, and Hilary Clinton Epstein deposition</title>
			<itunes:title>DCC new building, University of Galway arts cuts, and Hilary Clinton Epstein deposition</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:58</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/dcc-new-building-university-of-galway-arts-cuts-and-hilary-c</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69a0c9a2eebc4a99c61b096b</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>dcc-new-building-university-of-galway-arts-cuts-and-hilary-c</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Dublin City’s Council’s new premises at the former Dublin Institute of Technology will cost €670 million, The Irish Times can reveal.</p><br><p>The government is to build a new secure room to prevent eavesdropping on calls with world leaders.</p><br><p>An internal report from the University of Galway, seen by The Irish Times, includes proposals to axe its Bachelor of Arts due to falling student demand.</p><br><p>A month into a sit-in <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/farming-food/2026/02/26/bord-bia-protest-one-month-in-how-far-are-farmers-willing-to-go-over-brazilian-beef/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">protest at the offices of Bord Bia</a>, several farmers have told The Irish Times they want Brazilian beef clearly labelled so consumers know it’s not home grown produce.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2026/02/26/hilary-clinton-jeffrey-epstein-congressional-committee/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hilary Clinton</a> has accused the Congressional House Oversight Committee of failing to properly investigate individuals mentioned in the Epstein Files.</p><br><p>Dennis Staunton examines the AI race between China and the US.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Dublin City’s Council’s new premises at the former Dublin Institute of Technology will cost €670 million, The Irish Times can reveal.</p><br><p>The government is to build a new secure room to prevent eavesdropping on calls with world leaders.</p><br><p>An internal report from the University of Galway, seen by The Irish Times, includes proposals to axe its Bachelor of Arts due to falling student demand.</p><br><p>A month into a sit-in <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/farming-food/2026/02/26/bord-bia-protest-one-month-in-how-far-are-farmers-willing-to-go-over-brazilian-beef/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">protest at the offices of Bord Bia</a>, several farmers have told The Irish Times they want Brazilian beef clearly labelled so consumers know it’s not home grown produce.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/us/2026/02/26/hilary-clinton-jeffrey-epstein-congressional-committee/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hilary Clinton</a> has accused the Congressional House Oversight Committee of failing to properly investigate individuals mentioned in the Epstein Files.</p><br><p>Dennis Staunton examines the AI race between China and the US.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Mike Gaine murder, transport police, Botox and the next GAA president</title>
			<itunes:title>Mike Gaine murder, transport police, Botox and the next GAA president</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:51</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>699f5ca51eb5ccf4563ad285</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>mike-gaine-murder-transport-police-botox-and-the-next-gaa-pr</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>54 year-old American man <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/25/american-michael-kelley-charged-with-murder-of-kerry-sheep-farmer-michael-gaine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Michael Kelley remains in custody</a> this morning after being charged in court with the murder of Kerry sheep farmer Mike Gaine.</p><br><p>Members of a planned new public transport security service are to be given <a href="https://irishtimes.com/transport/2026/02/26/new-transport-security-force-to-be-given-powers-of-pursuit-and-arrest/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">powers of arrest and pursuit</a>.</p><br><p>A “so-called” live YouTube gaming stream hosted by a man accused of murdering his pregnant partner, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/02/25/former-partner-of-natalie-mcnally-peddled-false-alibi-about-live-gaming-stream-court-hears/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Natalie McNally</a>, has been played to jurors at Belfast Crown Court.</p><br><p>Proposed name changes for places such as Herzog Park in <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rathgar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rathgar</a>, south <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dublin</a>, may be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/02/26/changing-names-of-places-such-as-herzog-park-may-be-legally-unsafe-council-advised/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">“legally unsafe”</a> because of a gap in legislation, according to legal advice received by <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-city-council" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dublin City Council</a>.</p><br><p>A new president of the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">GAA</a> will be elected on Friday night, before taking office and succeeding <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jarlath-burns/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jarlath Burns</a> in 2027. The Irish Times <a href="https://irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/2026/02/26/gaa-presidency-qa-the-three-candidates-speak-on-the-pressing-matters-facing-the-organisation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has quizzed</a> the three candidates on some of the most pressing matters facing the GAA.</p><br><p>Author Emer McLysaght is writing about the dread of her upcoming book tour, and how it has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/02/26/i-went-to-my-first-botox-appointment-despite-saying-id-never-get-a-tweakment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">finally driven her to get Botox </a>after years of holding out.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>54 year-old American man <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/25/american-michael-kelley-charged-with-murder-of-kerry-sheep-farmer-michael-gaine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Michael Kelley remains in custody</a> this morning after being charged in court with the murder of Kerry sheep farmer Mike Gaine.</p><br><p>Members of a planned new public transport security service are to be given <a href="https://irishtimes.com/transport/2026/02/26/new-transport-security-force-to-be-given-powers-of-pursuit-and-arrest/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">powers of arrest and pursuit</a>.</p><br><p>A “so-called” live YouTube gaming stream hosted by a man accused of murdering his pregnant partner, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/02/25/former-partner-of-natalie-mcnally-peddled-false-alibi-about-live-gaming-stream-court-hears/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Natalie McNally</a>, has been played to jurors at Belfast Crown Court.</p><br><p>Proposed name changes for places such as Herzog Park in <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/rathgar" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Rathgar</a>, south <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dublin</a>, may be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/02/26/changing-names-of-places-such-as-herzog-park-may-be-legally-unsafe-council-advised/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">“legally unsafe”</a> because of a gap in legislation, according to legal advice received by <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/dublin-city-council" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dublin City Council</a>.</p><br><p>A new president of the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">GAA</a> will be elected on Friday night, before taking office and succeeding <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/jarlath-burns/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jarlath Burns</a> in 2027. The Irish Times <a href="https://irishtimes.com/sport/gaelic-games/2026/02/26/gaa-presidency-qa-the-three-candidates-speak-on-the-pressing-matters-facing-the-organisation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has quizzed</a> the three candidates on some of the most pressing matters facing the GAA.</p><br><p>Author Emer McLysaght is writing about the dread of her upcoming book tour, and how it has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/02/26/i-went-to-my-first-botox-appointment-despite-saying-id-never-get-a-tweakment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">finally driven her to get Botox </a>after years of holding out.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>New deal for Defence Forces, special needs assistants, and gang related merchandise</title>
			<itunes:title>New deal for Defence Forces, special needs assistants, and gang related merchandise</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:43</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A new deal has been struck to buy hundreds of new state of the art vehicles with new capabilities that could allow Ireland to take a greater role in peacekeeping missions abroad, and in defence of the island should the need arise.</p><br><p>The Taoiseach, Michael Martin, has defended the government’s decision to pause a review into how special needs assistants (SNAs) are allocated at schools saying it hadn’t been signed off by ministers.</p><br><p>The Irish Museum of Modern Art has said its cultural significance is being “entirely overlooked” in plans to renovate its building in west Dublin.</p><br><p>More than 150 people who presented as children seeking international protection in Ireland over the last two years were assessed to have been adults. Tusla said 86 people last year and 67 in 2024 were referred to the Department of Justice’s International Protection Office.</p><br><p>Gardaí have discovered gang related merchandise, including branded clothing. The homes of 11 senior top tier gang members, also known as the Neo Black Movement in Ireland, were raided. It said the group had been linked to the theft and laundering of €94 million since 2020.</p><br><p>Residents and businesses around Carlingford Lough have told The Irish Times a new bridge linking Warrenpoint in south Down, to Omeath in north Louth, will be a welcome boost to both towns.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A new deal has been struck to buy hundreds of new state of the art vehicles with new capabilities that could allow Ireland to take a greater role in peacekeeping missions abroad, and in defence of the island should the need arise.</p><br><p>The Taoiseach, Michael Martin, has defended the government’s decision to pause a review into how special needs assistants (SNAs) are allocated at schools saying it hadn’t been signed off by ministers.</p><br><p>The Irish Museum of Modern Art has said its cultural significance is being “entirely overlooked” in plans to renovate its building in west Dublin.</p><br><p>More than 150 people who presented as children seeking international protection in Ireland over the last two years were assessed to have been adults. Tusla said 86 people last year and 67 in 2024 were referred to the Department of Justice’s International Protection Office.</p><br><p>Gardaí have discovered gang related merchandise, including branded clothing. The homes of 11 senior top tier gang members, also known as the Neo Black Movement in Ireland, were raided. It said the group had been linked to the theft and laundering of €94 million since 2020.</p><br><p>Residents and businesses around Carlingford Lough have told The Irish Times a new bridge linking Warrenpoint in south Down, to Omeath in north Louth, will be a welcome boost to both towns.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Four years of war in Ukraine, learner driver believed to have killed 16-year-old in Navan, and Peter Madelson arrested</title>
			<itunes:title>Four years of war in Ukraine, learner driver believed to have killed 16-year-old in Navan, and Peter Madelson arrested</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:38</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/four-years-of-war-in-ukraine-learner-driver-believed-to-have</link>
			<acast:episodeId>699cbbea3a5156c5d2b39632</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>four-years-of-war-in-ukraine-learner-driver-believed-to-have</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Today marks 4 years since Russia mounted its invasion of Ukraine. On a visit to Kyiv today the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hoped to announce a €90 billion loan to help Ukraine continue fighting, but Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is blocking the money over a damaged oil pipeline delivering Russian oil via Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia.</p><br><p>The EU parliament’s trade committee was due to vote on removing tariffs on US industrial goods, a key part of the deal struck with Donald Trump last summer. But its delayed the vote after the US Supreme Court ruled Trump’s global tariffs were illegal because he didn’t gain congressional approval.</p><br><p>Gardaí believe the driver accused of killing 16-year-old Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe in Navan was an unaccompanied learner. She is one of seven people killed on the roads across the Island of Ireland at the weekend.</p><br><p>Peter Mandelson has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He’s accused of handing sensitive UK government files to Jeffrey Epstein.</p><br><p>Dublin’s Catholic Archdiocese says a record number of converts attended its latest “rite of election” ceremony in St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday.</p><br><p>Nancy Guithrie is an elderly woman who’s been missing from her home in Arizona since 31st January. The Irish Times <em>In The News</em> podcast speaks to a reporter in Arizona about what police think happened to her.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Today marks 4 years since Russia mounted its invasion of Ukraine. On a visit to Kyiv today the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen hoped to announce a €90 billion loan to help Ukraine continue fighting, but Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is blocking the money over a damaged oil pipeline delivering Russian oil via Ukraine to Hungary and Slovakia.</p><br><p>The EU parliament’s trade committee was due to vote on removing tariffs on US industrial goods, a key part of the deal struck with Donald Trump last summer. But its delayed the vote after the US Supreme Court ruled Trump’s global tariffs were illegal because he didn’t gain congressional approval.</p><br><p>Gardaí believe the driver accused of killing 16-year-old Mia Lily Keogh O’Keeffe in Navan was an unaccompanied learner. She is one of seven people killed on the roads across the Island of Ireland at the weekend.</p><br><p>Peter Mandelson has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He’s accused of handing sensitive UK government files to Jeffrey Epstein.</p><br><p>Dublin’s Catholic Archdiocese says a record number of converts attended its latest “rite of election” ceremony in St Mary’s Cathedral on Sunday.</p><br><p>Nancy Guithrie is an elderly woman who’s been missing from her home in Arizona since 31st January. The Irish Times <em>In The News</em> podcast speaks to a reporter in Arizona about what police think happened to her.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Facial recognition cameras, workers believe they are underpaid, the killing of a Mexican drug lord</title>
			<itunes:title>Facial recognition cameras, workers believe they are underpaid, the killing of a Mexican drug lord</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 08:18:22 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:21</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>699c0d4e0e5c959d5923067e</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>facial-recognition-cameras-workers-believe-their-underpaid-a</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The UK’s Border Force is&nbsp;piloting&nbsp;new surveillance&nbsp;technology from today. Live&nbsp;facial recognition cameras will scan thousands of passengers&nbsp;arriving from Ireland&nbsp;as&nbsp;they enter the UK.</p><br><p>A new survey of workers by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions suggests a&nbsp;majority&nbsp;believe they are underpaid for their skills and effort.&nbsp;Women and young people are most likely to feel their views are not taken seriously.</p><br><p>The Government is proposing to spend almost €600,000 on merchandise to promote its EU presidency which begins later this year. It includes over 56,000 tote bags, 11,000 umbrellas and 6,000 lapel pins with EU branding.</p><br><p>One of the world's most wanted drug lords, Nemiso&nbsp;Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, has been killed by security forces in Mexico. He led the New Generation Cartel and had a $15 million bounty on his head.</p><br><p>Officers are still searching the home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor surrounding allegations of&nbsp;misconduct&nbsp;in public office during his time as Trade Envoy.&nbsp;Andrew’s biographer, Andrew&nbsp;Lownie, has been talking to The Irish Times about the impact of the investigation on the royal family.</p><br><p>The Irish Times carries a deep dive into one of the visible changes to life in Afghanistan since the Taliban retook control in 2021. A 500km road linking the two major cities. But how has the end to conflict changed people's lives on the ground?</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The UK’s Border Force is&nbsp;piloting&nbsp;new surveillance&nbsp;technology from today. Live&nbsp;facial recognition cameras will scan thousands of passengers&nbsp;arriving from Ireland&nbsp;as&nbsp;they enter the UK.</p><br><p>A new survey of workers by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions suggests a&nbsp;majority&nbsp;believe they are underpaid for their skills and effort.&nbsp;Women and young people are most likely to feel their views are not taken seriously.</p><br><p>The Government is proposing to spend almost €600,000 on merchandise to promote its EU presidency which begins later this year. It includes over 56,000 tote bags, 11,000 umbrellas and 6,000 lapel pins with EU branding.</p><br><p>One of the world's most wanted drug lords, Nemiso&nbsp;Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, also known as El Mencho, has been killed by security forces in Mexico. He led the New Generation Cartel and had a $15 million bounty on his head.</p><br><p>Officers are still searching the home of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor surrounding allegations of&nbsp;misconduct&nbsp;in public office during his time as Trade Envoy.&nbsp;Andrew’s biographer, Andrew&nbsp;Lownie, has been talking to The Irish Times about the impact of the investigation on the royal family.</p><br><p>The Irish Times carries a deep dive into one of the visible changes to life in Afghanistan since the Taliban retook control in 2021. A 500km road linking the two major cities. But how has the end to conflict changed people's lives on the ground?</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor released from police custody, Judge speaks out against Tusla and a lookahead to Ireland vs England</title>
			<itunes:title>Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor released from police custody, Judge speaks out against Tusla and a lookahead to Ireland vs England</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:38</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69978a287012ce5376c31425</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>andrew-mountbatten-windsor-released-from-police-custody-judg</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The former British prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been released from police custody after being arrested accused of misconduct in public office. </p><br><p>A District Judge in Dublin has spoken out against the "profiteering" by private firms used by Tusla to provide placements for vulnerable children in the care system. </p><br><p>The Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler says she is deeply troubled by the findings of a review into mental health services for children in North Kerry.</p><br><p>Sinn Fein was not invited to The White House for St Patricks Day, despite announcing that they would not attend.</p><br><p>English Language schools ask the government for evidence over claims immigrants were using student visas in the sector as a back door into Ireland. </p><br><p>And a look ahead to Ireland vs England in the Men's Six Nations this weekend. </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The former British prince, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, has been released from police custody after being arrested accused of misconduct in public office. </p><br><p>A District Judge in Dublin has spoken out against the "profiteering" by private firms used by Tusla to provide placements for vulnerable children in the care system. </p><br><p>The Minister for Mental Health Mary Butler says she is deeply troubled by the findings of a review into mental health services for children in North Kerry.</p><br><p>Sinn Fein was not invited to The White House for St Patricks Day, despite announcing that they would not attend.</p><br><p>English Language schools ask the government for evidence over claims immigrants were using student visas in the sector as a back door into Ireland. </p><br><p>And a look ahead to Ireland vs England in the Men's Six Nations this weekend. </p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Uber in Ireland, ChatGPT caricature trend, the multinationals propping up the economy</title>
			<itunes:title>Uber in Ireland, ChatGPT caricature trend, the multinationals propping up the economy</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:12</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/uber-in-ireland-the-multinationals-propping-up-the-economy-c</link>
			<acast:episodeId>699607cc4a6b6137bf3a4fad</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>uber-in-ireland-the-multinationals-propping-up-the-economy-c</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCdPw29vSX64Wm2bL8cVT0WypVazKpzTpnf73/h2wjGc9I4GNipofrr5yKKeLWMv2fW4XHkeoPknmxgJoCpW8D9HsoNvhFxmY+/hEmIy9CL6EoOoH9+s897C5R2TnN+GP+a2H3iS57xMj2QDBonZxamfqYffp9/hftJfhG+SHULksFq9/VysBBEPGL5MvJ73nWGHSlLEAlQz9MYQgglsueIK]]></acast:settings>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/19/ireland-should-embrace-uber-and-other-ride-hailing-apps-to-increase-options-says-watchdog/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland should embrace Uber,</a> Bolt and other ride-hailing apps to increase options for taxi users, says the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission</p><br><p>Just three companies – technology groups <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/apple/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> and <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/microsoft/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Microsoft</a> and pharma group <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eli-lilly/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eli Lilly</a> – were responsible for almost half the corporation tax collected by the State in 2024.</p><br><p>Online fads such as sharing photos of yourself from 2016 and 2026 are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/02/19/our-inner-idiots-feed-ai-models-for-free-and-we-dont-even-realise-it/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">goldmines for training AI systems</a>, yet we keep doing them.</p><br><p>From wrist injury to walking revolution: How one Dublin engineer <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/02/19/from-wrist-injury-to-walking-revolution-how-one-dublin-engineer-reinvented-the-dog-lead/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reinvented the dog lead</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/19/ireland-should-embrace-uber-and-other-ride-hailing-apps-to-increase-options-says-watchdog/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland should embrace Uber,</a> Bolt and other ride-hailing apps to increase options for taxi users, says the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission</p><br><p>Just three companies – technology groups <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/apple/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Apple</a> and <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/microsoft/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Microsoft</a> and pharma group <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/eli-lilly/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eli Lilly</a> – were responsible for almost half the corporation tax collected by the State in 2024.</p><br><p>Online fads such as sharing photos of yourself from 2016 and 2026 are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/02/19/our-inner-idiots-feed-ai-models-for-free-and-we-dont-even-realise-it/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">goldmines for training AI systems</a>, yet we keep doing them.</p><br><p>From wrist injury to walking revolution: How one Dublin engineer <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/innovation/2026/02/19/from-wrist-injury-to-walking-revolution-how-one-dublin-engineer-reinvented-the-dog-lead/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reinvented the dog lead</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Irish tech in Russian drones, the infinite scroll, crypto for cars</title>
			<itunes:title>Irish tech in Russian drones, the infinite scroll, crypto for cars</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:23</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/irish-tech-in-russian-drones-the-infinite-scroll-crypto-for</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6994be306415006ed22fe4bd</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>irish-tech-in-russian-drones-the-infinite-scroll-crypto-for</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCcFAe0fnxBJy/1ju4Qxy1fh8gO4DvlGA40yms2g0/hOkcrfHIopjTygHFqGwwOPKFIai4SuTvs86Lx3UYCyl6ZshU3vqZdXI+g0wpRdT4DNPvF2V7FBe9cPn+SJMw/fY+PCVwgs/CSWRAeV9/zZfpKMt/HlctGxG4fAKMPJ8O5A4Pr6UxiKOje4lI6YK4uyZVOIeyFhbAzALu4+DPYMvtht]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/18/russia-imports-huge-quantities-of-irish-components-for-use-in-suicide-drones/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish electronic components</a> are being shipped to Russia in vast numbers where they are often fitted to “kamikaze drones” for use against civilian targets in Ukraine.</p><br><p>Meta wants the Irish Government to use its coming European Union presidency to advocate for scrapping of a law that would crack down on addictive social media features like infinite scroll.</p><br><p>Gardaí searching for the potential remains of JoJo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob had been focused for some time on the disused quarry in West Wicklow, which is now the centre of an excavation in the search for the two women.</p><br><p>A Dublin car dealership has become one of the first in Ireland to <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2026/02/17/irish-car-dealership-starts-accepting-bitcoin-should-you-use-it/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">accept crypto</a> - mostly Bitcoin - as payment when purchasing one of its vehicles.</p><br><p>Ed Power is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2026/02/17/the-tony-blair-story-a-master-of-spin-who-in-the-end-was-largely-lying-to-himself/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reviewing a landmark documentary</a> profiling former British prime minister Tony Blair. The three-part Channel 4 mini series features contributions from Blair, his wife Cherie and their adult children.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/18/russia-imports-huge-quantities-of-irish-components-for-use-in-suicide-drones/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish electronic components</a> are being shipped to Russia in vast numbers where they are often fitted to “kamikaze drones” for use against civilian targets in Ukraine.</p><br><p>Meta wants the Irish Government to use its coming European Union presidency to advocate for scrapping of a law that would crack down on addictive social media features like infinite scroll.</p><br><p>Gardaí searching for the potential remains of JoJo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob had been focused for some time on the disused quarry in West Wicklow, which is now the centre of an excavation in the search for the two women.</p><br><p>A Dublin car dealership has become one of the first in Ireland to <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2026/02/17/irish-car-dealership-starts-accepting-bitcoin-should-you-use-it/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">accept crypto</a> - mostly Bitcoin - as payment when purchasing one of its vehicles.</p><br><p>Ed Power is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2026/02/17/the-tony-blair-story-a-master-of-spin-who-in-the-end-was-largely-lying-to-himself/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reviewing a landmark documentary</a> profiling former British prime minister Tony Blair. The three-part Channel 4 mini series features contributions from Blair, his wife Cherie and their adult children.</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Jo Jo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob, dozens of dangerous incidents in the Defence Forces and ideas for Pancake Tuesday</title>
			<itunes:title>Jo Jo Dullard and Deirdre Jacob, dozens of dangerous incidents in the Defence Forces and ideas for Pancake Tuesday</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:54</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/what-happened-to-jo-jo-dullard-dozens-of-dangerous-incidents</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6993653dd85aecd27a5c2648</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>what-happened-to-jo-jo-dullard-dozens-of-dangerous-incidents</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Josephine Dullard,&nbsp;better known as JoJo,&nbsp;went missing on the 9th&nbsp;of November 1995.&nbsp;She&nbsp;was 21 at the time.&nbsp;And Deirdre Jacob, who went missing on the 19th&nbsp;of July 1998, was 18.&nbsp;Gardai have launched new searches in Co. Wicklow as part of the two investigations.</p><br><p>Councillors&nbsp;across Ireland&nbsp;tried to zone almost 300 land sites&nbsp;on flood prone areas&nbsp;for building houses over the past six years and the regulator had to intervene on 93 occasions.</p><br><p>Graduate doctors could be encouraged to stay in Ireland through a new State-backed loan.</p><br><p>For the second year in a row, the Sinn Fein president May Lou McDonald will not attend St Patrick’s day celebrations in Washington D.C.&nbsp;Neither with the Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill. Taoiseach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Micheál Martin</a>&nbsp;has been invited by Donald Trump to the White&nbsp;House, and&nbsp;will be travelling to Washington.</p><br><p>The&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Forces reported&nbsp;nearly 140&nbsp;dangerous incidents involving troops over the past two years, including an explosion, vehicle crashes, issues with weapons, and an injury suffered during “horseplay”.</p><br><p>And it's Shrove Tuesday, so Niamh Brown has been trying her hand at the cloud like Japanese soufflé pancake.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Josephine Dullard,&nbsp;better known as JoJo,&nbsp;went missing on the 9th&nbsp;of November 1995.&nbsp;She&nbsp;was 21 at the time.&nbsp;And Deirdre Jacob, who went missing on the 19th&nbsp;of July 1998, was 18.&nbsp;Gardai have launched new searches in Co. Wicklow as part of the two investigations.</p><br><p>Councillors&nbsp;across Ireland&nbsp;tried to zone almost 300 land sites&nbsp;on flood prone areas&nbsp;for building houses over the past six years and the regulator had to intervene on 93 occasions.</p><br><p>Graduate doctors could be encouraged to stay in Ireland through a new State-backed loan.</p><br><p>For the second year in a row, the Sinn Fein president May Lou McDonald will not attend St Patrick’s day celebrations in Washington D.C.&nbsp;Neither with the Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O’Neill. Taoiseach&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/micheal-martin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Micheál Martin</a>&nbsp;has been invited by Donald Trump to the White&nbsp;House, and&nbsp;will be travelling to Washington.</p><br><p>The&nbsp;Defence&nbsp;Forces reported&nbsp;nearly 140&nbsp;dangerous incidents involving troops over the past two years, including an explosion, vehicle crashes, issues with weapons, and an injury suffered during “horseplay”.</p><br><p>And it's Shrove Tuesday, so Niamh Brown has been trying her hand at the cloud like Japanese soufflé pancake.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Overcrowded prisons, Long Covid financial support ending and Bondi Beach suspect appears in court</title>
			<itunes:title>Overcrowded prisons, Long Covid financial support ending and Bondi Beach suspect appears in court</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 16 Feb 2026 08:19:58 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:02</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/overcrowded-prisons-long-covid-financial-support-ending-and</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6992d32e4d911476d8dd39a8</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>overcrowded-prisons-long-covid-financial-support-ending-and</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>There has been a spike in Ireland's prison population, driven by a rise in arrests of immigrants who are awaiting deportation.</p><br><p>The financial support scheme supporting frontline HSE staff who continue to suffer from Long Covid has come to an end. Several have told us the impact when their payments are reduced of end completely could be severe. </p><br><p>A man has appeared in court in Sydney accused of murdering 15 people in the attack at Bondi Beach in December. The trial is expected to run until April. </p><br><p>John Fitzpatrick writes today that the chronic lack of housing could risk Irish emigres not returning to Ireland. He argues they bring new skills and experiences which are vital to our economy. But new figures showing a near 25 per cent increase in the number of residential units with planning permission suggests movement in the right direction. </p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>There has been a spike in Ireland's prison population, driven by a rise in arrests of immigrants who are awaiting deportation.</p><br><p>The financial support scheme supporting frontline HSE staff who continue to suffer from Long Covid has come to an end. Several have told us the impact when their payments are reduced of end completely could be severe. </p><br><p>A man has appeared in court in Sydney accused of murdering 15 people in the attack at Bondi Beach in December. The trial is expected to run until April. </p><br><p>John Fitzpatrick writes today that the chronic lack of housing could risk Irish emigres not returning to Ireland. He argues they bring new skills and experiences which are vital to our economy. But new figures showing a near 25 per cent increase in the number of residential units with planning permission suggests movement in the right direction. </p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Ice flights through Shannon, parental child abductions, Big Tech's scam ads profits]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Ice flights through Shannon, parental child abductions, Big Tech's scam ads profits]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:24</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/ice-flights-through-shannon-parental-child-abductions-big-te</link>
			<acast:episodeId>698e49554d911476d8e04c2e</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>ice-flights-through-shannon-parental-child-abductions-big-te</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCchIW0Y8leGA8QFGNB/0Be5jWNUaRSrHIwt3DHpI6a78szHWj4SlKVOnLRseX/jUQC0ZhatDOqoJVeFZwYdbGINjyXN0+5XRuN+8CN4sYJNRTKQUBtDcijlqHuiG2KlF5H75NV2BiiqoYhgb7CV4QW4T6Si0I1v/ecsxbxdW/hHY0+OlrW0H+DDVr2pzxHYM4NtmCJUQ8O6vG5QV57Xd7GR]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Another aircraft has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/13/trump-administration-ice-deportation-flights-refuelling-in-shannon-airport/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">passed through Ireland</a>, chartered by the Trump administration as part of its programme of mass deportations.</p><br><p>The shadow of the Greenland crisis hangs over the opening of the Munich Security Conference, with US secretary of state Marco Rubio due to address European leaders tomorrow.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/13/parental-child-abduction-cases-becoming-more-common-in-ireland-solicitor-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Parental child abductions</a> are on the rise in Ireland according to a solicitor with experience of dealing with cases, where one parent relocates with children to another country without their partner’s consent.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/13/parental-child-abduction-cases-becoming-more-common-in-ireland-solicitor-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">biggest mosque in Ireland</a> reopens its doors after it suddenly shut last April amid tense scenes and allegations of financial irregularities.</p><br><p>Big tech is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/02/13/liz-carolan-big-tech-is-profiting-from-deepfake-videos-of-celebrities-selling-face-cream-and-bitcoin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">profiting from deepfake videos</a> of celebrities selling face cream and Bitcoin. Liz Carolan says there two winners: The fraudsters and social media companies.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Another aircraft has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/13/trump-administration-ice-deportation-flights-refuelling-in-shannon-airport/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">passed through Ireland</a>, chartered by the Trump administration as part of its programme of mass deportations.</p><br><p>The shadow of the Greenland crisis hangs over the opening of the Munich Security Conference, with US secretary of state Marco Rubio due to address European leaders tomorrow.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/13/parental-child-abduction-cases-becoming-more-common-in-ireland-solicitor-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Parental child abductions</a> are on the rise in Ireland according to a solicitor with experience of dealing with cases, where one parent relocates with children to another country without their partner’s consent.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/02/13/parental-child-abduction-cases-becoming-more-common-in-ireland-solicitor-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">biggest mosque in Ireland</a> reopens its doors after it suddenly shut last April amid tense scenes and allegations of financial irregularities.</p><br><p>Big tech is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/02/13/liz-carolan-big-tech-is-profiting-from-deepfake-videos-of-celebrities-selling-face-cream-and-bitcoin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">profiting from deepfake videos</a> of celebrities selling face cream and Bitcoin. Liz Carolan says there two winners: The fraudsters and social media companies.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Undocumented Irish, laptop shortages and replacing Prince Albert in Leinster House</title>
			<itunes:title>Undocumented Irish, laptop shortages and replacing Prince Albert in Leinster House</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:24</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>698cd3eb5d2bf63a6d525b5b</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>undocumented-irish-laptop-shortages-and-replacing-prince-alb</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>If you are Irish in the United States, carry your documents on you, give your family your lawyer’s details, and if you have any minor wrongdoing in your name, try to fix that asap. That’s the advice from immigration attorneys who have been speaking to reporter Colm Keena.</p><br><p>Hospitals, An Garda Siochána and Government departments are among hundreds of public service bodies that could be affected by a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/02/12/hospitals-garda-and-government-departments-could-be-affected-by-global-computer-shortage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">global shortage of computers and laptops </a>caused by Artificial Intelligence (AI).</p><br><p>The owner of a stately home in south county Dublin is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/02/12/stately-home-owner-fights-council-plan-to-rezone-dublin-land-for-housing-and-public-use/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">resisting plans to rezone his surrounding lands</a> for housing and cycle paths. That’s despite Marc Cochrane making 150 million euro from selling part of the</p><br><p>Woodbrook estate at the height of the Celtic Tiger.</p><br><p>In <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2026/02/12/should-prince-alberts-statue-at-leinster-house-be-removed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our letters page</a> today, John from Leopardstown in Dublin is pondering who could theoretically replace an old colonial bust of Prince Albert, which still remains outside Leinster House.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>If you are Irish in the United States, carry your documents on you, give your family your lawyer’s details, and if you have any minor wrongdoing in your name, try to fix that asap. That’s the advice from immigration attorneys who have been speaking to reporter Colm Keena.</p><br><p>Hospitals, An Garda Siochána and Government departments are among hundreds of public service bodies that could be affected by a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/02/12/hospitals-garda-and-government-departments-could-be-affected-by-global-computer-shortage/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">global shortage of computers and laptops </a>caused by Artificial Intelligence (AI).</p><br><p>The owner of a stately home in south county Dublin is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/02/12/stately-home-owner-fights-council-plan-to-rezone-dublin-land-for-housing-and-public-use/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">resisting plans to rezone his surrounding lands</a> for housing and cycle paths. That’s despite Marc Cochrane making 150 million euro from selling part of the</p><br><p>Woodbrook estate at the height of the Celtic Tiger.</p><br><p>In <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2026/02/12/should-prince-alberts-statue-at-leinster-house-be-removed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our letters page</a> today, John from Leopardstown in Dublin is pondering who could theoretically replace an old colonial bust of Prince Albert, which still remains outside Leinster House.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Special rapporteur for child protection hasn't reported since 2022, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Special rapporteur for child protection hasn't reported since 2022, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 11 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:32</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>698bad07337b2a3b2e282cdd</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>special-rapporteur-for-child-protection-hasnt-reported-since</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Ireland's special rapporteur for child protection hasn't published their annual report since 2022</li><li>The government is considering its guidance for the rights of trans people in schools</li><li>The EU parliament is to vote on a huge funding package for Ukraine</li><li>Immigrants who serve in the Defence Forces could get fast tracked citizenship</li><li>Dublin Airport could have its passenger cap lifted</li><li>Opposition to a proposed wind farm on the site of an ancient burial ground </li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Ireland's special rapporteur for child protection hasn't published their annual report since 2022</li><li>The government is considering its guidance for the rights of trans people in schools</li><li>The EU parliament is to vote on a huge funding package for Ukraine</li><li>Immigrants who serve in the Defence Forces could get fast tracked citizenship</li><li>Dublin Airport could have its passenger cap lifted</li><li>Opposition to a proposed wind farm on the site of an ancient burial ground </li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Number of Gardaí suspended last year doubled, and todays other top stories</title>
			<itunes:title>Number of Gardaí suspended last year doubled, and todays other top stories</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 10 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:56</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/number-of-gardai-suspended-last-year-doubled-and-todays-othe</link>
			<acast:episodeId>698a458341bb4de4910dfc34</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>number-of-gardai-suspended-last-year-doubled-and-todays-othe</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you.</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The number of Gardaí suspended from duty last year doubled compared with 2024</li><li>A new flood defence system to combat sea surges is to be built</li><li>Keir Starmer is under growing pressure to resign over what he knew about Peter Mandelson's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein</li><li>Fintan O'Toole writes today that Epstein's victims were nothing more than fungible assets</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you.</strong></p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The number of Gardaí suspended from duty last year doubled compared with 2024</li><li>A new flood defence system to combat sea surges is to be built</li><li>Keir Starmer is under growing pressure to resign over what he knew about Peter Mandelson's friendship with Jeffrey Epstein</li><li>Fintan O'Toole writes today that Epstein's victims were nothing more than fungible assets</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Ireland's bidding system for buying homes is pushing up prices, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Ireland's bidding system for buying homes is pushing up prices, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:48</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/irelands-bidding-system-for-buying-homes-is-pushing-up-price</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6988fbab45f62cfe94a2cf30</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>irelands-bidding-system-for-buying-homes-is-pushing-up-price</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Our system of home-buying is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/09/irelands-bidding-system-for-homes-driving-prices-higher/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">stoking bidding wars</a> and pushing property prices higher, according to the ESRI.</p><br><p>In the space of two years, a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/09/were-just-in-limbo-defective-concrete-puts-donegal-childcare-centres-under-huge-stress/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">playschool in Co Donega</a>l went from applying for planning permission to expand to receiving an order of condemnation due to defective concrete blocks.</p><br><p>Donald Trump could deflect Maga criticism of AI for the loss of jobs in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/09/donald-trump-could-deflect-maga-criticism-of-ai-for-the-loss-of-jobs-in-us-towards-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">US towards Ireland</a>. If the AI sector collapses, he might try to blame over-regulation in Europe.</p><br><p>Culling ‘risky’ ideas from Leaving Cert curriculum would do a disservice to students, writes <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/02/09/unthinkable-culling-risky-ideas-from-leaving-cert-curriculum-does-a-disservice-to-students/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joe Humphreys in his Unthinkable column today</a>. Some teachers argue the curriculum should – and does – deal with viewpoints on the right and even far right.</p><br><p>Tattoos are generally considered safe, but there are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2026/02/09/tattoos-are-generally-considered-safe-but-there-are-things-you-should-know/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should know</a>, writes Dr Muiris Houston.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Our system of home-buying is <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/09/irelands-bidding-system-for-homes-driving-prices-higher/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">stoking bidding wars</a> and pushing property prices higher, according to the ESRI.</p><br><p>In the space of two years, a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/09/were-just-in-limbo-defective-concrete-puts-donegal-childcare-centres-under-huge-stress/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">playschool in Co Donega</a>l went from applying for planning permission to expand to receiving an order of condemnation due to defective concrete blocks.</p><br><p>Donald Trump could deflect Maga criticism of AI for the loss of jobs in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2026/02/09/donald-trump-could-deflect-maga-criticism-of-ai-for-the-loss-of-jobs-in-us-towards-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">US towards Ireland</a>. If the AI sector collapses, he might try to blame over-regulation in Europe.</p><br><p>Culling ‘risky’ ideas from Leaving Cert curriculum would do a disservice to students, writes <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/02/09/unthinkable-culling-risky-ideas-from-leaving-cert-curriculum-does-a-disservice-to-students/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joe Humphreys in his Unthinkable column today</a>. Some teachers argue the curriculum should – and does – deal with viewpoints on the right and even far right.</p><br><p>Tattoos are generally considered safe, but there are <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2026/02/09/tattoos-are-generally-considered-safe-but-there-are-things-you-should-know/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">things you should know</a>, writes Dr Muiris Houston.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Sever weather warnings issued for 18 counties, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Sever weather warnings issued for 18 counties, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 07:57:05 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:13</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/support-for-a-right-to-housing-in-the-constitution-and-today</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6984e8df65974c013f6d3cfe</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>support-for-a-right-to-housing-in-the-constitution-and-today</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>Severe weather warnings have been issued by Met Éireann, and the National Emergency Coordination Group has recommended people in Dublin, Louth, Wicklow and Waterford work from home if they can.</p><br><p>A man in his eighties has died, and several have been injured, after a bus hit pedestrians in Dublin city centre.</p><br><p>A new poll for The Irish Times suggests two thirds of voters would support the addition of a right to housing in the Irish constitution.</p><br><p>British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under pressure over his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UK’s Ambassador to Washington.</p><br><p>And are the days of hybrid working numbered?&nbsp;</p><br><p>Presented by Andrew McNair</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>Severe weather warnings have been issued by Met Éireann, and the National Emergency Coordination Group has recommended people in Dublin, Louth, Wicklow and Waterford work from home if they can.</p><br><p>A man in his eighties has died, and several have been injured, after a bus hit pedestrians in Dublin city centre.</p><br><p>A new poll for The Irish Times suggests two thirds of voters would support the addition of a right to housing in the Irish constitution.</p><br><p>British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is under pressure over his decision to appoint Peter Mandelson as the UK’s Ambassador to Washington.</p><br><p>And are the days of hybrid working numbered?&nbsp;</p><br><p>Presented by Andrew McNair</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Landlord ‘traumatised’ after tenants left him €20k in arrears, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Landlord ‘traumatised’ after tenants left him €20k in arrears, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 05 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:50</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A Cork man who had to move in with family after his overholding tenant failed to pay rent for more than a year has described his <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2026/02/05/man-describes-experience-as-landlord-as-traumatic-after-overholding-tenant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">experience as a landlord</a> as “traumatic”.</p><br><p>The latest Irish Times Ipsos B&amp;A opinion poll spells good news for Taoiseach Micheál Martin, but lukewarm results the government coalition, and the main opposition party Sinn Féin.</p><br><p>The standard approach of most European governments to the constant attacks coming from Elon Musk has been to ignore the online rants of the tech billionaire. French diplomats have decided to <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/02/05/french-diplomats-try-out-a-new-social-media-strategy-mock-the-trolls/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">take a different approach</a>.</p><br><p>Ireland kicks off its Six Nations campaign with its first game against France. It’s the first time in the modern era that a Six Nations game has been held on a Thursday; avoiding a clash with the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Italy.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A Cork man who had to move in with family after his overholding tenant failed to pay rent for more than a year has described his <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2026/02/05/man-describes-experience-as-landlord-as-traumatic-after-overholding-tenant/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">experience as a landlord</a> as “traumatic”.</p><br><p>The latest Irish Times Ipsos B&amp;A opinion poll spells good news for Taoiseach Micheál Martin, but lukewarm results the government coalition, and the main opposition party Sinn Féin.</p><br><p>The standard approach of most European governments to the constant attacks coming from Elon Musk has been to ignore the online rants of the tech billionaire. French diplomats have decided to <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/02/05/french-diplomats-try-out-a-new-social-media-strategy-mock-the-trolls/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">take a different approach</a>.</p><br><p>Ireland kicks off its Six Nations campaign with its first game against France. It’s the first time in the modern era that a Six Nations game has been held on a Thursday; avoiding a clash with the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics in Italy.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Gerry Adams civil case reaches London court, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Gerry Adams civil case reaches London court, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 04 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>6:56</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/gerry-adams-civil-case-reaches-london-court-and-todays-other</link>
			<acast:episodeId>698262ae143ae987af45e1e5</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>gerry-adams-civil-case-reaches-london-court-and-todays-other</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A crucial pre-trial hearing will take place in a London court today, in the civil action taken against Gerry Adams by three IRA bomb victims.</p><br><p>Schools may soon have to state how much money they’ve taken in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2026/02/04/voluntary-contributions-schools-will-have-to-tell-parents-sums-collected-and-how-theyre-spent/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">voluntary contributions</a>, and how the funds are being spent.</p><br><p>Met Éireann is warning of heavy rainfall tomorrow, while the National Emergency Co-ordination Group says Thursday will be the real ‘pinch-point’ in terms of flood risk.</p><br><p>Upgrading your home to a warmer, more energy efficient one is more accessible after new grants were announced last week. But it’s still an investment worth thousands of euro, so <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/02/04/counting-the-cost-and-the-benefit-of-making-your-home-fossil-fuel-free/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joanne Hunt is running a cost-benefit analysis</a> to see if it’s worth it.</p><br><p>And on World Cancer Day, Róisín Ingle is writing about how she can forget she’s living with the disease... apart from the day before her quarterly CT and bone scan results. That’s when she <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/02/04/the-day-before-the-scan-results-i-remember-i-have-cancer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">allows herself to wonder...</a></p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A crucial pre-trial hearing will take place in a London court today, in the civil action taken against Gerry Adams by three IRA bomb victims.</p><br><p>Schools may soon have to state how much money they’ve taken in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/education/2026/02/04/voluntary-contributions-schools-will-have-to-tell-parents-sums-collected-and-how-theyre-spent/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">voluntary contributions</a>, and how the funds are being spent.</p><br><p>Met Éireann is warning of heavy rainfall tomorrow, while the National Emergency Co-ordination Group says Thursday will be the real ‘pinch-point’ in terms of flood risk.</p><br><p>Upgrading your home to a warmer, more energy efficient one is more accessible after new grants were announced last week. But it’s still an investment worth thousands of euro, so <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/02/04/counting-the-cost-and-the-benefit-of-making-your-home-fossil-fuel-free/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Joanne Hunt is running a cost-benefit analysis</a> to see if it’s worth it.</p><br><p>And on World Cancer Day, Róisín Ingle is writing about how she can forget she’s living with the disease... apart from the day before her quarterly CT and bone scan results. That’s when she <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/02/04/the-day-before-the-scan-results-i-remember-i-have-cancer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">allows herself to wonder...</a></p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Clintons to testify at Epstein investigation, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Clintons to testify at Epstein investigation, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 03 Feb 2026 09:20:34 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:46</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>clintons-to-testify-at-epstein-investigation-and-todays-othe</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Bill and Hillary Clinton have notified the US congress they will testify in the Epstein investigation</li><li>Alleged rape victims in Ireland may no longer have their counselling records presented at the trial of their alleged abuser</li><li>More weather warnings for heavy rain in counties Louth, Dublin, Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford,&nbsp;Cork&nbsp;and Waterford</li><li>Gambling addiction is a "biologically driven brain disease"</li><li>New regulations for scramblers to be presented to cabinet this week</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Bill and Hillary Clinton have notified the US congress they will testify in the Epstein investigation</li><li>Alleged rape victims in Ireland may no longer have their counselling records presented at the trial of their alleged abuser</li><li>More weather warnings for heavy rain in counties Louth, Dublin, Wicklow, Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford,&nbsp;Cork&nbsp;and Waterford</li><li>Gambling addiction is a "biologically driven brain disease"</li><li>New regulations for scramblers to be presented to cabinet this week</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Taoiseach urges caution over standing up to Donald Trump, and today's other top stories. ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Taoiseach urges caution over standing up to Donald Trump, and today's other top stories. ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:32</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/taoiseach-urges-caution-over-standing-up-to-donald-trump-and</link>
			<acast:episodeId>697fa5fb9718228b6fdf4a3f</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>taoiseach-urges-caution-over-standing-up-to-donald-trump-and</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times.</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The Taoiseach urges caution over the EU standing up to Donald Trump in an interview with The Irish Times.</li><li>Readers ask whether Ireland should look more toward Canada than the US for leadership.</li><li>The flooding crisis is expected to continue as further yellow weather warnings are issued for eight counties</li><li>Tusla expresses concerns over Valerie's Law, legislation to remove guardianship rights from parents convicted of murder.</li><li>Why are Irish couples having fewer babies? Jen Hogan dives in.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times.</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The Taoiseach urges caution over the EU standing up to Donald Trump in an interview with The Irish Times.</li><li>Readers ask whether Ireland should look more toward Canada than the US for leadership.</li><li>The flooding crisis is expected to continue as further yellow weather warnings are issued for eight counties</li><li>Tusla expresses concerns over Valerie's Law, legislation to remove guardianship rights from parents convicted of murder.</li><li>Why are Irish couples having fewer babies? Jen Hogan dives in.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Fresh weather warnings for heavy rain, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Fresh weather warnings for heavy rain, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 30 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:00</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/fresh-weather-warnings-for-heavy-rain-and-todays-other-top-s</link>
			<acast:episodeId>697bd0d665942209531c91b4</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>fresh-weather-warnings-for-heavy-rain-and-todays-other-top-s</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Yellow weather warnings issues for Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford, and all six counties in Northern Ireland</li><li>Several big housing developers threaten legal action against the government over proposed rental reforms</li><li>Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps added to the EU's terrorist list</li><li>The Lord of the Dance will go ahead in Dublin next week, and Michael Flatley will be involved</li><li>Pat Kenny signs off the last of his daily radio shows, moving to only weekends</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Yellow weather warnings issues for Carlow, Dublin, Kilkenny, Louth, Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford, and all six counties in Northern Ireland</li><li>Several big housing developers threaten legal action against the government over proposed rental reforms</li><li>Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps added to the EU's terrorist list</li><li>The Lord of the Dance will go ahead in Dublin next week, and Michael Flatley will be involved</li><li>Pat Kenny signs off the last of his daily radio shows, moving to only weekends</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Counties affected by flooding brace for more rain, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Counties affected by flooding brace for more rain, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:17</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/counties-affected-by-flooding-brace-for-more-rain-and-todays</link>
			<acast:episodeId>697a7e76d577b417ba541146</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>counties-affected-by-flooding-brace-for-more-rain-and-todays</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A yellow weather warning is in place again today for counties Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford and Dublin, as the cleanup continues following Storm Chandra. Yesterday the Minister for Housing James Browne criticised Met Éireann over its flood warning protocols. Climate and science correspondent Caroline O’Doherty explains why that’s not a fair charge.</p><br><p>We have had a huge reaction to Jen Hogan’s feature on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/01/24/irish-women-share-their-stories-of-motherhood-after-40-i-knew-if-i-didnt-try-i-would-have-regrets/?" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the rise of women having babies in their 40s</a>. Today Cliff Taylor analyses some of the economic forces driving the 21 percent increase in ten years.</p><br><p>And Ciara O’Brien is writing about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2026/01/29/smart-home-becomes-a-harder-sell-when-device-makers-arbitrarily-pull-the-plug/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smart devices in our homes</a> that are no longer being supported by their manufacturers. Whatever about smart plugs and lightbulbs, thermostats and EV chargers are not the kind of thing consumers should be expected to replace - at considerable cost - every few years.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>A yellow weather warning is in place again today for counties Carlow, Kilkenny, Wexford, Wicklow, Waterford and Dublin, as the cleanup continues following Storm Chandra. Yesterday the Minister for Housing James Browne criticised Met Éireann over its flood warning protocols. Climate and science correspondent Caroline O’Doherty explains why that’s not a fair charge.</p><br><p>We have had a huge reaction to Jen Hogan’s feature on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/01/24/irish-women-share-their-stories-of-motherhood-after-40-i-knew-if-i-didnt-try-i-would-have-regrets/?" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the rise of women having babies in their 40s</a>. Today Cliff Taylor analyses some of the economic forces driving the 21 percent increase in ten years.</p><br><p>And Ciara O’Brien is writing about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2026/01/29/smart-home-becomes-a-harder-sell-when-device-makers-arbitrarily-pull-the-plug/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">smart devices in our homes</a> that are no longer being supported by their manufacturers. Whatever about smart plugs and lightbulbs, thermostats and EV chargers are not the kind of thing consumers should be expected to replace - at considerable cost - every few years.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[More mortgages secured last year than in any year since 2008, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[More mortgages secured last year than in any year since 2008, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:27</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/more-mortgages-secured-laster-year-than-in-any-year-since-20</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6979171c47577ef18d7e2a3d</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>more-mortgages-secured-laster-year-than-in-any-year-since-20</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Dozens of homes and businesses remain under several feet of water following Storm Chandra.</li><li>Homebuyers took out more mortgages in 2025 than in any year since 2008.&nbsp;</li><li>The Doomsday Clock reaches&nbsp;85 seconds to midnight.</li><li>A government body spent around €60,000 on alcohol at two trade fairs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>A couple who spent years living in their car says its a nightmare renting a pet friendly property.</li><li>Shamima Begum, the former teenage ISIS bride, is in her last ditch attempt to return to the UK.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Dozens of homes and businesses remain under several feet of water following Storm Chandra.</li><li>Homebuyers took out more mortgages in 2025 than in any year since 2008.&nbsp;</li><li>The Doomsday Clock reaches&nbsp;85 seconds to midnight.</li><li>A government body spent around €60,000 on alcohol at two trade fairs.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>A couple who spent years living in their car says its a nightmare renting a pet friendly property.</li><li>Shamima Begum, the former teenage ISIS bride, is in her last ditch attempt to return to the UK.</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Cabinet to approve Patrick's Day White House plans, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Cabinet to approve Patrick's Day White House plans, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 27 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:45</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/cabinet-to-approve-patricks-day-white-house-plans-and-todays</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6977e922f159e0c1376b9705</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>cabinet-to-approve-patricks-day-white-house-plans-and-todays</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>Senior ministers are not entertaining suggestions the Taoiseach should boycott the White House this <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/27/recommendation-for-formal-legal-review-before-irish-troops-sent-abroad-set-to-be-rejected/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">St. Patrick’s Day</a>. Pat Leahy writes the cabinet is expected to sign off on their annual programme at their weekly meeting. Other items on the agenda include the widening of eligibility criteria for homeowners who can <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/27/controversial-rent-reform-legislation-expected-to-be-approved-today/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">qualify for retrofits</a>.</p><br><p>A Cork farmer will allege in the High Court this morning that armed <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/01/27/armed-gardai-used-taser-on-innocent-farmer-while-searching-for-gun-court-will-hear/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">gardaí twice used a Taser </a>on him during the raid of his farm in December 2015, and that he was “unlawfully assaulted and battered and falsely imprisoned” by them.</p><br><p>US president Donald Trump has he’s had a “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/us/2026/01/26/minneapolis-shooting-trump-is-unrepentant-as-republican-backlash-grows/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">very good call” with the Democratic governor of Minnesota</a>, following the fatal shooting of a second US citizen in the state by immigration agents that has sparked a fierce backlash.</p><br><p>Dart+ South West has cost the state 35 million euro, without a single shovel in the ground, nor construction even planned for another four years.</p><br><p>Forget your stocks and shares; how about trying to do something positive for the environment, while earning some money from the land? Fiona Reddan has the lowdown on the state’s various <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/01/27/current-incentives-are-very-attractive-how-to-earn-up-to-six-figures-by-planting-trees/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tree incentive schemes</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p>Senior ministers are not entertaining suggestions the Taoiseach should boycott the White House this <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/27/recommendation-for-formal-legal-review-before-irish-troops-sent-abroad-set-to-be-rejected/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">St. Patrick’s Day</a>. Pat Leahy writes the cabinet is expected to sign off on their annual programme at their weekly meeting. Other items on the agenda include the widening of eligibility criteria for homeowners who can <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/27/controversial-rent-reform-legislation-expected-to-be-approved-today/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">qualify for retrofits</a>.</p><br><p>A Cork farmer will allege in the High Court this morning that armed <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2026/01/27/armed-gardai-used-taser-on-innocent-farmer-while-searching-for-gun-court-will-hear/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">gardaí twice used a Taser </a>on him during the raid of his farm in December 2015, and that he was “unlawfully assaulted and battered and falsely imprisoned” by them.</p><br><p>US president Donald Trump has he’s had a “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/us/2026/01/26/minneapolis-shooting-trump-is-unrepentant-as-republican-backlash-grows/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">very good call” with the Democratic governor of Minnesota</a>, following the fatal shooting of a second US citizen in the state by immigration agents that has sparked a fierce backlash.</p><br><p>Dart+ South West has cost the state 35 million euro, without a single shovel in the ground, nor construction even planned for another four years.</p><br><p>Forget your stocks and shares; how about trying to do something positive for the environment, while earning some money from the land? Fiona Reddan has the lowdown on the state’s various <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2026/01/27/current-incentives-are-very-attractive-how-to-earn-up-to-six-figures-by-planting-trees/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tree incentive schemes</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Why so many young people denying the holocaust? </title>
			<itunes:title>Why so many young people denying the holocaust? </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 26 Jan 2026 03:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:34</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69764cd849ef755216a77e39</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>why-so-many-young-people-denying-the-holocaust</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCf9uj9wBHUq4rEq42bHNlPHF5EZxIBIoCHoYhdvsLrHnu2DWRhrcnGk85sJ5wSPKXQLEovipje/1M3A7I0YP62rJcGLCA3i+e9YNreZQ+J3XFsqzB2los41Ma0XvuTwiOhRM8P+VTzQ0/WlWzVhtwFF06yGmPtOfXnJFlhqjiGOj+qA/KNZmpEtBiUx6fVo1PPlGJg/adCl9vHJe+Vvg63f]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>What do teachers think is behind the alarming number of young people denying the holocaust?</li><li>Could hybrid working tackle traffic congestion on routes into Dublin?</li><li>How many special advisors does the government have, and how much do they cost?</li><li>Where can you buy a lunch in Dublin for less than €5?</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>What do teachers think is behind the alarming number of young people denying the holocaust?</li><li>Could hybrid working tackle traffic congestion on routes into Dublin?</li><li>How many special advisors does the government have, and how much do they cost?</li><li>Where can you buy a lunch in Dublin for less than €5?</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts <em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and <em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong><u>This survey</u></strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you. </strong></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Zelensky slams Europe's 'inaction' in Davos]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Zelensky slams Europe's 'inaction' in Davos]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 23 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:20</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69728e9dd284f5cd09140e68</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>zelensky-slams-europes-inaction-in-davos</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Volodymyr Zelensky had strong words for Europe, and is said to have agreed security guarantees from Donald Trump.</li><li>Desperately needed flood defences in Clontarf on Dublin's north side are delayed again.</li><li>Adults with ADHD tell The Irish Times of their struggles with addiction.</li><li>The health minister criticised dentists who offer Botox.</li><li>An Irishman is on the cusp of breaking the world record for the longest hike barefoot. </li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Volodymyr Zelensky had strong words for Europe, and is said to have agreed security guarantees from Donald Trump.</li><li>Desperately needed flood defences in Clontarf on Dublin's north side are delayed again.</li><li>Adults with ADHD tell The Irish Times of their struggles with addiction.</li><li>The health minister criticised dentists who offer Botox.</li><li>An Irishman is on the cusp of breaking the world record for the longest hike barefoot. </li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Donald Trump claims "really good deal" done over Greenland, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Donald Trump claims "really good deal" done over Greenland, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 22 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:59</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69714893ad93e7a4314162fa</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>really-good-deal-done-over-greenland-claims-trump-and-todays</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>As expected, Donald Trump brought the drama in Davos yesterday. Today EU leaders meet for an emergency summit in Brussels, where they’ll have to figure out what <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/01/21/trump-drops-tariff-threat-over-greenland-after-agreeing-deal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Greenland deal</a> was done between the US president and the head of Nato in their absence.</p><br><p>Ellen Coyne has been canvassing opinions on an Australia style <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/02/digital-wallet-teens-want-more-moderation-of-social-media-but-no-blanket-ban-for-under-16s/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">social media ban for under 16s</a> here, and how it might work.</p><br><p>Over 500 people have had their say on proposed <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/01/22/deeply-upsetting-skerries-active-travel-plan-provokes-angry-response-from-residents/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">active travel scheme for the town of Skerries</a> in north Co. Dublin. Olivia Kelly reports the vast majority of submissions to a public consultation show utter dismay at the plans for protected bike lanes, fewer car parking spaces and a one way system for part of the town.</p><br><p>And Emer McLysaght absolutely loves living alone, except for <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/01/22/living-alone-in-ireland-is-a-joy-85-of-the-time/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">one completely terrifying prospect</a> which plagues others like her.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>As expected, Donald Trump brought the drama in Davos yesterday. Today EU leaders meet for an emergency summit in Brussels, where they’ll have to figure out what <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2026/01/21/trump-drops-tariff-threat-over-greenland-after-agreeing-deal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Greenland deal</a> was done between the US president and the head of Nato in their absence.</p><br><p>Ellen Coyne has been canvassing opinions on an Australia style <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2026/02/02/digital-wallet-teens-want-more-moderation-of-social-media-but-no-blanket-ban-for-under-16s/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">social media ban for under 16s</a> here, and how it might work.</p><br><p>Over 500 people have had their say on proposed <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/01/22/deeply-upsetting-skerries-active-travel-plan-provokes-angry-response-from-residents/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">active travel scheme for the town of Skerries</a> in north Co. Dublin. Olivia Kelly reports the vast majority of submissions to a public consultation show utter dismay at the plans for protected bike lanes, fewer car parking spaces and a one way system for part of the town.</p><br><p>And Emer McLysaght absolutely loves living alone, except for <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2026/01/22/living-alone-in-ireland-is-a-joy-85-of-the-time/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">one completely terrifying prospect</a> which plagues others like her.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Trump's speech in Davos amid chaos over Greenland, and today's other top stories. ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Trump's speech in Davos amid chaos over Greenland, and today's other top stories. ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:28</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>697000ab25b879f328f9e77b</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>trumps-speech-in-davos-amid-chaos-over-greenland-and-todays</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Donald Trump is to speak to the World Economic Forum in Davos following fresh tariffs over his desire to take control of Greenland.</li><li>An alarming number of Irish people believe the Holocaust is a myth</li><li>Tusla defends itself in the High Court over its failure to give two children places in a secure unit.</li><li>Still no screening for babies with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, two years after it was promised.</li><li>The Irish language is to play a key role in Ireland's EU presidency.</li><li>And a Dublin TD says restaurants shouldn't charge the same corkage fee for non-alcoholic drinks as it does for alcoholic drinks.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>A selection of top stories from The Irish Times:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Donald Trump is to speak to the World Economic Forum in Davos following fresh tariffs over his desire to take control of Greenland.</li><li>An alarming number of Irish people believe the Holocaust is a myth</li><li>Tusla defends itself in the High Court over its failure to give two children places in a secure unit.</li><li>Still no screening for babies with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, two years after it was promised.</li><li>The Irish language is to play a key role in Ireland's EU presidency.</li><li>And a Dublin TD says restaurants shouldn't charge the same corkage fee for non-alcoholic drinks as it does for alcoholic drinks.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Garda who assaulted his wife was 'allowed to flourish' in An Garda Síochána]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Garda who assaulted his wife was 'allowed to flourish' in An Garda Síochána]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:01</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>A former garda who was assaulted by her ex-husband says she will handcuff herself to the gates of Leinster House if he is allowed to keep his job in An Garda Síochána. In an interview with The Irish Times, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/20/ill-handcuff-myself-to-leinster-house-if-he-doesnt-lose-his-job-says-wife-of-garda-who-assaulted-her/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Margaret Loftus says</a> Trevor Bolger was able to exert power and influence over her right up until the point of sentencing.</p><br><p>As the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/19/european-leaders-hope-to-avoid-greenland-dispute-escalating-into-trade-war/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EU considers how to respond</a> to Donald Trump’s threats to take Greenland, Cliff Taylor observes any form of retaliation will be bad news for Ireland’s economy.</p><br><p>Colin Howell walked into a Co. Derry police station in 2009 and confessed to the murder of his wife and his lover’s husband. Now Freya McClements reports <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/20/i-have-lived-in-an-unreal-world-audio-of-ni-dentists-confession-to-double-murder-emerges/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">audio of that confession</a> is to be made public for the very first time.</p><br><p>And the sika deer has been added to a list of invasive species that shouldn’t be in the EU. Caroline O’Doherty explains Ireland will now have to come up with a national <a href="https://irishtimes.com/environment/2026/01/20/future-of-sika-deer-in-question-following-invasive-species-classification/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">strategy to cull the breed</a>, which is a major pest in parts of the country.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>A former garda who was assaulted by her ex-husband says she will handcuff herself to the gates of Leinster House if he is allowed to keep his job in An Garda Síochána. In an interview with The Irish Times, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/20/ill-handcuff-myself-to-leinster-house-if-he-doesnt-lose-his-job-says-wife-of-garda-who-assaulted-her/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Margaret Loftus says</a> Trevor Bolger was able to exert power and influence over her right up until the point of sentencing.</p><br><p>As the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/19/european-leaders-hope-to-avoid-greenland-dispute-escalating-into-trade-war/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EU considers how to respond</a> to Donald Trump’s threats to take Greenland, Cliff Taylor observes any form of retaliation will be bad news for Ireland’s economy.</p><br><p>Colin Howell walked into a Co. Derry police station in 2009 and confessed to the murder of his wife and his lover’s husband. Now Freya McClements reports <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/20/i-have-lived-in-an-unreal-world-audio-of-ni-dentists-confession-to-double-murder-emerges/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">audio of that confession</a> is to be made public for the very first time.</p><br><p>And the sika deer has been added to a list of invasive species that shouldn’t be in the EU. Caroline O’Doherty explains Ireland will now have to come up with a national <a href="https://irishtimes.com/environment/2026/01/20/future-of-sika-deer-in-question-following-invasive-species-classification/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">strategy to cull the breed</a>, which is a major pest in parts of the country.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Surge in Irish deportations from United States, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Surge in Irish deportations from United States, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 19 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:55</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>The number of Irish people being deported from the US amid Donald Trump’s hardline immigration crackdown has surged, writes Martin Wall.</p><br><p>An Irish citizen, who went back to his native Russia to visit family last August, has been in custody ever since and risks being sent to a forced labour camp, writes Órla Ryan.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/19/the-dublin-rioters-who-are-they-and-what-82-prosecutions-tell-us-about-those-involved/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Dublin rioters</a>: Conor Gallagher on who are they and what 82 prosecutions have told us about those involved on the night of November 23rd 2023.</p><br><p>John Fitzgerald, the professor at the Economic and Social Research Institute, has spoken of the time he unexpectedly ended up at a cabinet subcommittee in 1983 much to the surprise of his father, the then Taoiseach Garrett Fitzgerald. And somehow John manages to link this <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/economy/2026/01/19/farm-lobbys-decision-to-go-against-mercosur-will-likely-prove-very-damaging/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">amusing anecdote to the controversial Mercosur deal</a>.</p><br><p>And Rachel O’Dwyer has written a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/01/17/our-grief-gives-us-a-shared-grammar-when-politics-and-language-fail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">deeply touching article </a>today where she takes issue with the film Hamnet being described disparagingly as “grief porn.”</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>As we head into the New Year, The Irish Times wants to hear listener feedback on our two news podcasts;&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;and our more recently released sister podcast&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>.</strong></p><br><p><a href="https://www.research.net/r/ITNewsPodcast" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>This survey</strong></a><strong> is open to anyone who has listened to either&nbsp;<em>In The News</em>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<em>Early Edition</em>- whether you listen regularly, occasionally, or have listened in the past.</strong></p><br><p><strong>This survey should take around 3-5 minutes to complete. All responses are anonymous. Thank you! </strong></p><br><p>The number of Irish people being deported from the US amid Donald Trump’s hardline immigration crackdown has surged, writes Martin Wall.</p><br><p>An Irish citizen, who went back to his native Russia to visit family last August, has been in custody ever since and risks being sent to a forced labour camp, writes Órla Ryan.</p><br><p><a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/19/the-dublin-rioters-who-are-they-and-what-82-prosecutions-tell-us-about-those-involved/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Dublin rioters</a>: Conor Gallagher on who are they and what 82 prosecutions have told us about those involved on the night of November 23rd 2023.</p><br><p>John Fitzgerald, the professor at the Economic and Social Research Institute, has spoken of the time he unexpectedly ended up at a cabinet subcommittee in 1983 much to the surprise of his father, the then Taoiseach Garrett Fitzgerald. And somehow John manages to link this <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/economy/2026/01/19/farm-lobbys-decision-to-go-against-mercosur-will-likely-prove-very-damaging/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">amusing anecdote to the controversial Mercosur deal</a>.</p><br><p>And Rachel O’Dwyer has written a <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2026/01/17/our-grief-gives-us-a-shared-grammar-when-politics-and-language-fail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">deeply touching article </a>today where she takes issue with the film Hamnet being described disparagingly as “grief porn.”</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Trans school pupils have right for their preferred pronouns to be used, and todays other top stories</title>
			<itunes:title>Trans school pupils have right for their preferred pronouns to be used, and todays other top stories</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 16 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:59</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Schools must use the preferred name and pronoun of transgender&nbsp;children</li><li>Ireland could create more jobs if it had a better energy supply&nbsp;</li><li>Senior officials at Ireland’s inward investment agency say the jobs market it being held back by constraints in the electricity network</li><li>The company which runs Dublin and Cork airports has until 6 o’clock this evening to file court papers; in relation to the legal action begin taken against it by its suspended CEO</li><li>Greenlanders tell our correspondent Derek Scally what they think of Donald Trumps threats</li><li>The Oscar winning actor Brendan Fraser reveals his Grandad cross the Atlantic to escape the&nbsp;Famine&nbsp;</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>Schools must use the preferred name and pronoun of transgender&nbsp;children</li><li>Ireland could create more jobs if it had a better energy supply&nbsp;</li><li>Senior officials at Ireland’s inward investment agency say the jobs market it being held back by constraints in the electricity network</li><li>The company which runs Dublin and Cork airports has until 6 o’clock this evening to file court papers; in relation to the legal action begin taken against it by its suspended CEO</li><li>Greenlanders tell our correspondent Derek Scally what they think of Donald Trumps threats</li><li>The Oscar winning actor Brendan Fraser reveals his Grandad cross the Atlantic to escape the&nbsp;Famine&nbsp;</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[West Dublin data centre consumes energy equivalent of 200k homes, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[West Dublin data centre consumes energy equivalent of 200k homes, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:19</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Just <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2026/01/15/single-data-centre-comsumes-10-times-electricity-of-nearby-pharma-plant-employing-2000/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">one single data centre </a>in west Dublin consumes energy equivalent to 200,000 homes, according to an internal government document seen by The Irish Times. Jack Horgan-Jones reports that’s ten times the electricity consumption of a nearby pharmaceutical plant.</p><br><p>The number of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/15/fourfold-rise-in-number-of-us-citizens-seeking-asylum-in-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">US citizens seeking International Protection</a> in Ireland has quadrupled in the past year. Although the numbers are small, the amount of Americans immigrating to Ireland on visas has spiked by almost 100%. Katie Mellett reports that figure equates to 9,600.</p><br><p>The €750,000 cost of constructing 14 steps and a ramp at a south Dublin park was <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/01/15/deer-park-steps-in-south-dublin-cost-more-than-500000-above-original-estimate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">half a million more</a> than the local authority which developed the project had initially estimated, the National Transport Authority has told Martin Wall.</p><br><p>2026 could be the year you take back control of your devices instead of your devices controlling you, writes Ciara O’Brien. She has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/consumer-tech/2026/01/15/tech-resolutions-from-privacy-to-decluttering-and-making-ai-suit-you/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">these tips</a> to help declutter your digital life, secure your privacy and free up some mental bandwidth.</p><br><p>And the hit ice hockey show Heated Rivalry, featuring a same sex romance, is getting the Patrick Freyne treatment. In a bid to appreciate more “sports”, he says he’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2026/01/15/its-important-for-ice-hockey-players-to-be-clean-i-jot-down-during-heated-rivalrys-shower-scene/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">learning about ice hockey from the HBO series</a>. Or as Patrick calls it, Canadian snow hurling.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Just <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2026/01/15/single-data-centre-comsumes-10-times-electricity-of-nearby-pharma-plant-employing-2000/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">one single data centre </a>in west Dublin consumes energy equivalent to 200,000 homes, according to an internal government document seen by The Irish Times. Jack Horgan-Jones reports that’s ten times the electricity consumption of a nearby pharmaceutical plant.</p><br><p>The number of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/01/15/fourfold-rise-in-number-of-us-citizens-seeking-asylum-in-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">US citizens seeking International Protection</a> in Ireland has quadrupled in the past year. Although the numbers are small, the amount of Americans immigrating to Ireland on visas has spiked by almost 100%. Katie Mellett reports that figure equates to 9,600.</p><br><p>The €750,000 cost of constructing 14 steps and a ramp at a south Dublin park was <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2026/01/15/deer-park-steps-in-south-dublin-cost-more-than-500000-above-original-estimate/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">half a million more</a> than the local authority which developed the project had initially estimated, the National Transport Authority has told Martin Wall.</p><br><p>2026 could be the year you take back control of your devices instead of your devices controlling you, writes Ciara O’Brien. She has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/consumer-tech/2026/01/15/tech-resolutions-from-privacy-to-decluttering-and-making-ai-suit-you/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">these tips</a> to help declutter your digital life, secure your privacy and free up some mental bandwidth.</p><br><p>And the hit ice hockey show Heated Rivalry, featuring a same sex romance, is getting the Patrick Freyne treatment. In a bid to appreciate more “sports”, he says he’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2026/01/15/its-important-for-ice-hockey-players-to-be-clean-i-jot-down-during-heated-rivalrys-shower-scene/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">learning about ice hockey from the HBO series</a>. Or as Patrick calls it, Canadian snow hurling.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Children waiting years for medical assessments, and todays other top stories</title>
			<itunes:title>Children waiting years for medical assessments, and todays other top stories</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 14 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:46</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>children-waiting-years-for-medical-assessments-and-todays-ot</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of stories from The Irish Times. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Children in Ireland are waiting years for primary medical&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;</li><li>Extreme weather -&nbsp;The EU’s climate service says Ireland is in for more&nbsp;of it&nbsp;</li><li>Execution of a protestor in Iran is schedule for today, human rights group says</li><li>Dead whales washing up on Irish beaches</li><li>Behind Pierce Brosnan's latest character, the renowned Irish boxing coach Brendan Ingle</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of stories from The Irish Times. </p><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Children in Ireland are waiting years for primary medical&nbsp;assessments&nbsp;</li><li>Extreme weather -&nbsp;The EU’s climate service says Ireland is in for more&nbsp;of it&nbsp;</li><li>Execution of a protestor in Iran is schedule for today, human rights group says</li><li>Dead whales washing up on Irish beaches</li><li>Behind Pierce Brosnan's latest character, the renowned Irish boxing coach Brendan Ingle</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[The ironic MAGA hat sported by Greenlanders, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[The ironic MAGA hat sported by Greenlanders, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 13 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:05</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>It’s the first day back in the Dáil for TDs after their Christmas break. Political editor Pat Leahy takes a look at the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/13/new-dail-terms-six-things-to-watch-out-for/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">issues expected to command the most attention</a> in this Dáil term.</p><br><p>The unsavoury confluence of Grok’s “nudification” function, and the shooting dead of Renée Good in Minneapolis last week have ushered in our <a href="https://irishtimes.com/media/2026/01/13/minneapolis-killing-ushers-in-our-new-media-dystopia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">new media dystopia</a>, argues Hugh Linehan in his column today.</p><br><p>Scientists hope the intermittent fasting trend could, in the future, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2026/01/13/could-autophagy-be-the-fast-way-to-slowing-neurodegenerative-disease/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">play a part in reducing neurodegenerative diseases </a>like Alzheimer’s.</p><br><p>And Greenlanders are sporting red baseball caps akin to the iconic MAGA hats worn by fans of US president Donald Trump. Except in the capital, Nuuk, the acronym stands for <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/01/12/make-america-go-away-the-red-hat-thats-all-the-rage-in-greenland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make America Go Away</a>.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>It’s the first day back in the Dáil for TDs after their Christmas break. Political editor Pat Leahy takes a look at the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2026/01/13/new-dail-terms-six-things-to-watch-out-for/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">issues expected to command the most attention</a> in this Dáil term.</p><br><p>The unsavoury confluence of Grok’s “nudification” function, and the shooting dead of Renée Good in Minneapolis last week have ushered in our <a href="https://irishtimes.com/media/2026/01/13/minneapolis-killing-ushers-in-our-new-media-dystopia/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">new media dystopia</a>, argues Hugh Linehan in his column today.</p><br><p>Scientists hope the intermittent fasting trend could, in the future, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2026/01/13/could-autophagy-be-the-fast-way-to-slowing-neurodegenerative-disease/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">play a part in reducing neurodegenerative diseases </a>like Alzheimer’s.</p><br><p>And Greenlanders are sporting red baseball caps akin to the iconic MAGA hats worn by fans of US president Donald Trump. Except in the capital, Nuuk, the acronym stands for <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/europe/2026/01/12/make-america-go-away-the-red-hat-thats-all-the-rage-in-greenland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make America Go Away</a>.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Vulnerable, evicted, and facing homelessness at 70, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Vulnerable, evicted, and facing homelessness at 70, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 12 Jan 2026 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:47</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>vulnerable-evicted-and-facing-homelessness-at-70-and-todays</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's stories from The Irish Times.</p><p><br></p><ul><li>An especially vulnerable women, and survivor of the Donnybrook Magdalene Laundry, who’s&nbsp;facing eviction at the age of 70 speaks to the Irish Times.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>The scheme to compensate survivors of mother and baby homes says&nbsp;its&nbsp;received 7,000 applications for redress.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>The government promises tighter regulations on e-scooters.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>A group of Irish students head to Bavaria on exchange.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Read more at <a href="IrishTimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">IrishTimes.com</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's stories from The Irish Times.</p><p><br></p><ul><li>An especially vulnerable women, and survivor of the Donnybrook Magdalene Laundry, who’s&nbsp;facing eviction at the age of 70 speaks to the Irish Times.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>The scheme to compensate survivors of mother and baby homes says&nbsp;its&nbsp;received 7,000 applications for redress.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>The government promises tighter regulations on e-scooters.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>A group of Irish students head to Bavaria on exchange.</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Read more at <a href="IrishTimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">IrishTimes.com</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Key vote on the EU's Mercosur trade deal and overcrowded hospitals, today's top stories ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Key vote on the EU's Mercosur trade deal and overcrowded hospitals, today's top stories ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 09 Jan 2026 06:11:16 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:43</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>key-vote-on-the-eus-mercosur-trade-deal-and-overcrowded-hosp</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>A crucial vote on the EU’s Mercosur trade deal in Brussels.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The Health Minister&nbsp;criticises&nbsp;two hospitals over patients waiting on trolleys.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>President Catherine Conolly tells the launch of Dublin TradFest Irish music plays a huge role in communities across the country.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>One of the Republic of Ireland's 2002 World Cup squad writes the Saipan film is full of inaccuracies.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A selection of today's top stories from The Irish Times. </p><p><br></p><ul><li>A crucial vote on the EU’s Mercosur trade deal in Brussels.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><ul><li>The Health Minister&nbsp;criticises&nbsp;two hospitals over patients waiting on trolleys.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>President Catherine Conolly tells the launch of Dublin TradFest Irish music plays a huge role in communities across the country.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>One of the Republic of Ireland's 2002 World Cup squad writes the Saipan film is full of inaccuracies.</li></ul><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
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			<title><![CDATA[US spy planes over Ireland during seizure of tanker, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[US spy planes over Ireland during seizure of tanker, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 08 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:41</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>On today’s Early Edition:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The US seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker en route from Venezuela in the North Atlantic yesterday.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Minister for Higher Education James Lawless on how the shortage of skilled labour will impact housing - and why he believes ministers should leave social media platform X. </li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>New figures released by MyHome.ie show signs that house price inflation stabilised towards the end of last year.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>And how Belfast’s TV and film industries are booming.</li></ul><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>On today’s Early Edition:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>The US seizure of a Russian-flagged tanker en route from Venezuela in the North Atlantic yesterday.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Minister for Higher Education James Lawless on how the shortage of skilled labour will impact housing - and why he believes ministers should leave social media platform X. </li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>New figures released by MyHome.ie show signs that house price inflation stabilised towards the end of last year.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>And how Belfast’s TV and film industries are booming.</li></ul><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>AI threat to professional jobs, a huge climate target miss and holiday booking woes</title>
			<itunes:title>AI threat to professional jobs, a huge climate target miss and holiday booking woes</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>5:19</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>ai-threat-to-professional-jobs-a-huge-climate-target-miss-an</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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			<description><![CDATA[Mark Hennessy brings you a selection of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>.<hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[Mark Hennessy brings you a selection of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>.<hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title> Botox warning, Maduro in court and more asylum seekers go home voluntarily</title>
			<itunes:title> Botox warning, Maduro in court and more asylum seekers go home voluntarily</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:24</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>695c120559798faba3846968</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>botox-warning-maduro-in-court-as-power-shifts-in-venezuela-a</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:subtitle><![CDATA[Four of today's top stories]]></itunes:subtitle>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>On today’s Early Edition podcast:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro appeared in a New York Court yesterday. Meanwhile his former vice president is taking control in Caracas.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Archbishop Eamon Martin wrote to Taoiseach Micheál Martin last September about the case of republican activist Denis Donaldson, who was murdered in 2006.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>New figures show the number of asylum seekers who returned to their country of origin increased last year. But there is no evidence that greater financial inducements on offer were a factor.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>And a warning about the dangers of unlicensed Botox procedures.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Four of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>On today’s Early Edition podcast:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>Venezuelan president Nicolas Maduro appeared in a New York Court yesterday. Meanwhile his former vice president is taking control in Caracas.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>Archbishop Eamon Martin wrote to Taoiseach Micheál Martin last September about the case of republican activist Denis Donaldson, who was murdered in 2006.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>New figures show the number of asylum seekers who returned to their country of origin increased last year. But there is no evidence that greater financial inducements on offer were a factor.</li></ul><p><br></p><ul><li>And a warning about the dangers of unlicensed Botox procedures.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Four of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Workplace accidents on the rise, and a Government intervention in the Dublin Airport passenger cap debate</title>
			<itunes:title>Workplace accidents on the rise, and a Government intervention in the Dublin Airport passenger cap debate</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>5:25</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>6957f25218c941d6d6ac736b</acast:episodeId>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>workplace-accidents-on-the-rise-and-a-government-interventio</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>How <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien </a>intervened in the debate over Dublin Airport’s passenger cap.</p><br><p>Abuse, privilege and enjoyment: TDs who were first elected in 2024 reflect on a year in their roles.</p><br><p>“Working from home” has been under attack from US business leaders and rules have been tightened in many Irish workplaces. But is the practice really in decline?</p><br><p>And 2025 marked an increase in workplace-related deaths, with one group of workers particularly vulnerable.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Mark Hennessy shares four of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>How <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/tags/darragh-o-brien/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien </a>intervened in the debate over Dublin Airport’s passenger cap.</p><br><p>Abuse, privilege and enjoyment: TDs who were first elected in 2024 reflect on a year in their roles.</p><br><p>“Working from home” has been under attack from US business leaders and rules have been tightened in many Irish workplaces. But is the practice really in decline?</p><br><p>And 2025 marked an increase in workplace-related deaths, with one group of workers particularly vulnerable.&nbsp;</p><br><p>Mark Hennessy shares four of today's top stories from <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Measures to track submarines in Irish waters, and our other top stories on New Years Day</title>
			<itunes:title>Measures to track submarines in Irish waters, and our other top stories on New Years Day</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 01 Jan 2026 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>5:28</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/rte-celebrates-100-years-and-our-other-top-stories-on-new-ye</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69553da85f9b0b61aab33e41</acast:episodeId>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>rte-celebrates-100-years-and-our-other-top-stories-on-new-ye</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>On this day in 1926 2RN, the radio station which became RTE, was launched for the first time. </p><br><p>Dozens of devices could be dropped into the waters off Ireland’s coast to&nbsp;track&nbsp;Russian submarines&nbsp;in Irish sovereign waters.</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>And in a New Year interview with The Irish Times, Sinn Fein leader, Mary Lou McDonald rejects charges that a stronger line by the party on immigration means it isn’t a left wing party.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>On this day in 1926 2RN, the radio station which became RTE, was launched for the first time. </p><br><p>Dozens of devices could be dropped into the waters off Ireland’s coast to&nbsp;track&nbsp;Russian submarines&nbsp;in Irish sovereign waters.</p><p>&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>And in a New Year interview with The Irish Times, Sinn Fein leader, Mary Lou McDonald rejects charges that a stronger line by the party on immigration means it isn’t a left wing party.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Road deaths reach highest toll in a decade, and today's other top stories. ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Road deaths reach highest toll in a decade, and today's other top stories. ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>6:33</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/nearly-200-killed-on-irelands-roads-in-2025-and-todays-other</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6953e9276d80a931eb3df595</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>nearly-200-killed-on-irelands-roads-in-2025-and-todays-other</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The&nbsp;father&nbsp;of an autistic boy&nbsp;who cannot get a place at school speaks&nbsp;of the challenges with everyday life.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Head of Dublin City University hits back at claims it is overcharging for student&nbsp;accommodation.&nbsp;</p><br><p>And An&nbsp;Garda Síochána&nbsp;pleads for people not to drink and drive, as the number of road deaths in 2025 nears&nbsp;200.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The&nbsp;father&nbsp;of an autistic boy&nbsp;who cannot get a place at school speaks&nbsp;of the challenges with everyday life.&nbsp;</p><br><p>The Head of Dublin City University hits back at claims it is overcharging for student&nbsp;accommodation.&nbsp;</p><br><p>And An&nbsp;Garda Síochána&nbsp;pleads for people not to drink and drive, as the number of road deaths in 2025 nears&nbsp;200.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Ukraine denies attacking Putin's residence, and todays other top stories. ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Ukraine denies attacking Putin's residence, and todays other top stories. ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>5:38</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/ukraine-denies-attacking-putins-residence-and-todays-other-t</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6952edae5d6f68f3bfb08c2e</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>ukraine-denies-attacking-putins-residence-and-todays-other-t</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Ukraine has denied carrying out a drone attack on one of Putin’s official residences. The allegation and denial came after US president Donald Trump claimed a peace deal was nearly complete.</p><br><p>The number of organ transplants from donors in Ireland fell sharply this year.</p><br><p>A threat to the delivery of new homes in key parts of Dublin because of&nbsp;electricity constraints led the government to demand urgent action from&nbsp;the state-owned grid operator and power supplier.&nbsp;</p><br><p>And in an interview for today’s Irish Times, the actor James Nesbitt reflects on his identity as an actor and that Ballymena accent.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Ukraine has denied carrying out a drone attack on one of Putin’s official residences. The allegation and denial came after US president Donald Trump claimed a peace deal was nearly complete.</p><br><p>The number of organ transplants from donors in Ireland fell sharply this year.</p><br><p>A threat to the delivery of new homes in key parts of Dublin because of&nbsp;electricity constraints led the government to demand urgent action from&nbsp;the state-owned grid operator and power supplier.&nbsp;</p><br><p>And in an interview for today’s Irish Times, the actor James Nesbitt reflects on his identity as an actor and that Ballymena accent.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Drummer from The Script is landlord of mould-ridden garden home, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Drummer from The Script is landlord of mould-ridden garden home, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 22 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:05</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>drummer-from-the-script-is-landlord-of-mould-ridden-garden-h</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A founding member of the Irish pop-rock band The Script is the landlord of a mould-ridden, unregistered rented studio described by the tenant living there as “uninhabitable”.</p><br><p>Donald Trump’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/22/donald-trumps-baby-bonds-a-policy-idea-worth-taking-seriously/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">“baby bonds”</a> involve opening an investment account, like a pension, but can be managed from birth. The programme for government proposes a similar idea.</p><br><p>Calf’s head, pressed beef and hare meat are Christmas recipe ideas featured in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/22/calfs-head-soup-and-the-royal-pudding-recipe-christmas-food-advice-from-our-archives/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Irish Times archives</a>. Úna McCaffrey has been trawling through them and found some other tips for women hosting the festive </p><p>dinner.</p><br><p>Forget the streaming services’ mediocre Christmas TV offerings and relive the golden era of linear TV’s “Christmas special”. From Father Ted to Alan Partridge, Lauren Murphy has been ranking the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/2025/12/22/the-one-with-the-christmas-special/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ten best festive episodes</a> of iconic TV sitcoms.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A founding member of the Irish pop-rock band The Script is the landlord of a mould-ridden, unregistered rented studio described by the tenant living there as “uninhabitable”.</p><br><p>Donald Trump’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/22/donald-trumps-baby-bonds-a-policy-idea-worth-taking-seriously/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">“baby bonds”</a> involve opening an investment account, like a pension, but can be managed from birth. The programme for government proposes a similar idea.</p><br><p>Calf’s head, pressed beef and hare meat are Christmas recipe ideas featured in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/22/calfs-head-soup-and-the-royal-pudding-recipe-christmas-food-advice-from-our-archives/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Irish Times archives</a>. Úna McCaffrey has been trawling through them and found some other tips for women hosting the festive </p><p>dinner.</p><br><p>Forget the streaming services’ mediocre Christmas TV offerings and relive the golden era of linear TV’s “Christmas special”. From Father Ted to Alan Partridge, Lauren Murphy has been ranking the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/2025/12/22/the-one-with-the-christmas-special/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ten best festive episodes</a> of iconic TV sitcoms.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Irish judges face abusive behaviour at the Four Courts, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Irish judges face abusive behaviour at the Four Courts, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 19 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:43</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>irish-judges-face-abusive-behaviour-at-the-four-courts-and-t</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Most common scams catching Irish people out, and Corinna Hardgrave's restaurant oscars]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Most common scams catching Irish people out, and Corinna Hardgrave's restaurant oscars]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 18 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:31</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>most-common-scams-catching-irish-people-out-and-corinna-hard</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/18/text-message-scams-by-far-the-most-common-route-for-online-fraudsters-aib-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">most common scams</a> that led to money being stolen from people this year started with text messages sent to phones. Consumer affairs correspondent Conor Pope is writing about new research released by AIB this morning.</p><br><p>There’s been a warming of relations between the British government and the European Commission. Yesterday it announced it’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/uk/2025/12/17/britain-and-eu-ties-grow-as-uk-to-rejoin-erasmus-youth-scheme/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rejoining the Erasmus student exchange programme</a>, after Brexit brought an end to it.</p><br><p>An Irish citizen has been remanded in custody in Germany, over an alleged break in at a plant linked to an Israeli defence company. Derek Scally writes that Daniel Tatlow-Devally is kept in his cell for 23 hours a day.</p><br><p>Corinna Hardgrave is nominating the best eateries in Ireland in her <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/restaurants/2025/12/18/corinna-hardgraves-2025-food-awards-including-her-meal-of-the-year/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">annual “restaurant oscars.”</a> She’s picked three for Early Edition; one casual dining, one mid-range and one fine dining experience.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/18/text-message-scams-by-far-the-most-common-route-for-online-fraudsters-aib-says/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">most common scams</a> that led to money being stolen from people this year started with text messages sent to phones. Consumer affairs correspondent Conor Pope is writing about new research released by AIB this morning.</p><br><p>There’s been a warming of relations between the British government and the European Commission. Yesterday it announced it’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/uk/2025/12/17/britain-and-eu-ties-grow-as-uk-to-rejoin-erasmus-youth-scheme/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rejoining the Erasmus student exchange programme</a>, after Brexit brought an end to it.</p><br><p>An Irish citizen has been remanded in custody in Germany, over an alleged break in at a plant linked to an Israeli defence company. Derek Scally writes that Daniel Tatlow-Devally is kept in his cell for 23 hours a day.</p><br><p>Corinna Hardgrave is nominating the best eateries in Ireland in her <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/restaurants/2025/12/18/corinna-hardgraves-2025-food-awards-including-her-meal-of-the-year/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">annual “restaurant oscars.”</a> She’s picked three for Early Edition; one casual dining, one mid-range and one fine dining experience.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Whistleblower reveals mistreatment at Dublin hospital, and no smoking gun in Jim Gavin report</title>
			<itunes:title>Whistleblower reveals mistreatment at Dublin hospital, and no smoking gun in Jim Gavin report</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:51</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>whistleblower-reveals-mistreatment-at-dublin-hospital-and-no</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Irish Times has learned of a report into a number of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2025/12/17/patients-in-dublin-mental-health-hospital-left-in-soiled-clothes-slapped-and-threatened/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">allegations of patients being mistreated at Bloomfield Hospita</a>l in south Dublin. Our health correspondent Shauna Bowers says they include patients being slapped, left in soiled clothing and threatened with an injection for not co-operating with staff.</p><br><p>The highly anticipated review into Fianna Fáil’s calamitous presidential election campaign has been revealed. There’s no smoking gun in relation to what the Taoiseach and other senior party figures knew about </p><p>Mr. Gavin’s rent dispute with a former tenant, but political editor Pat Leahy says it does clarify how the campaign unravelled.</p><br><p>A London company has been hired to provide <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/17/gardai-purchase-counter-terrorism-training-simulators-ahead-of-eu-presidency/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">counter terrorism simulations</a> for Gardaí ahead of Ireland’s holding of the EU presidency next year. Crime and security correspondent Conor Gallagher says Gardaí will “war game” a number of scenarios, including a large scale terrorist attack.</p><br><p>With just over a week until many of us will be panicking about preparing the Christmas dinner, you might be relieved to hear that even professional chefs take shortcuts in the kitchen on December 25th. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/17/chefs-christmas-shortcuts-freezing-croissants-mixing-leftovers-into-sausage-rolls-and-shop-bought-stock/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here are the shop-bought suggestions</a> that will work for everybody.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Irish Times has learned of a report into a number of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2025/12/17/patients-in-dublin-mental-health-hospital-left-in-soiled-clothes-slapped-and-threatened/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">allegations of patients being mistreated at Bloomfield Hospita</a>l in south Dublin. Our health correspondent Shauna Bowers says they include patients being slapped, left in soiled clothing and threatened with an injection for not co-operating with staff.</p><br><p>The highly anticipated review into Fianna Fáil’s calamitous presidential election campaign has been revealed. There’s no smoking gun in relation to what the Taoiseach and other senior party figures knew about </p><p>Mr. Gavin’s rent dispute with a former tenant, but political editor Pat Leahy says it does clarify how the campaign unravelled.</p><br><p>A London company has been hired to provide <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/17/gardai-purchase-counter-terrorism-training-simulators-ahead-of-eu-presidency/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">counter terrorism simulations</a> for Gardaí ahead of Ireland’s holding of the EU presidency next year. Crime and security correspondent Conor Gallagher says Gardaí will “war game” a number of scenarios, including a large scale terrorist attack.</p><br><p>With just over a week until many of us will be panicking about preparing the Christmas dinner, you might be relieved to hear that even professional chefs take shortcuts in the kitchen on December 25th. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/17/chefs-christmas-shortcuts-freezing-croissants-mixing-leftovers-into-sausage-rolls-and-shop-bought-stock/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here are the shop-bought suggestions</a> that will work for everybody.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Fears of increased risk to Jewish community in Ireland, and today’s other top stories</title>
			<itunes:title>Fears of increased risk to Jewish community in Ireland, and today’s other top stories</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:45</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>fears-of-increased-risk-to-jewish-community-in-ireland-and-t</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan says there is no intelligence to suggest a heightened risk to the Jewish community in Ireland following Sunday’s terrorist gun attack in Sydney. But speaking on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/inside-politics/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan</a>, he says antisemitism is something we have to confront.</p><br><p>After a suggestion in the US that 50 year mortgages could be one way of making American homes more affordable, Fiona Reddan looks at the viability of introducing them here.</p><br><p>A quiet, months-long battle between James Comer, the Republican chair of the oversight committee, and Bill and Hillary Clinton over the panel’s Jeffrey Epstein investigation could come to a head this week.</p><br><p>What’s Christmas like in Dubai? Waterford native Sinéad McCann is our first emigrant to share her experience of being abroad in December. Our “Letters Home for Christmas” series explores views about Ireland through the lens of young emigrants.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan says there is no intelligence to suggest a heightened risk to the Jewish community in Ireland following Sunday’s terrorist gun attack in Sydney. But speaking on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/inside-politics/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Inside Politics with Hugh Linehan</a>, he says antisemitism is something we have to confront.</p><br><p>After a suggestion in the US that 50 year mortgages could be one way of making American homes more affordable, Fiona Reddan looks at the viability of introducing them here.</p><br><p>A quiet, months-long battle between James Comer, the Republican chair of the oversight committee, and Bill and Hillary Clinton over the panel’s Jeffrey Epstein investigation could come to a head this week.</p><br><p>What’s Christmas like in Dubai? Waterford native Sinéad McCann is our first emigrant to share her experience of being abroad in December. Our “Letters Home for Christmas” series explores views about Ireland through the lens of young emigrants.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Bondi Beach attack latest, and today's other top stories]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Bondi Beach attack latest, and today's other top stories]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:54</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>New South Wales police have confirmed the alleged attackers in yesterday’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/australia/2025/12/14/gardai-to-increase-presence-at-jewish-events-following-bondi-beach-shooting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">massacre on Bondi Beach in Australia were father and son</a>. At least 16 are dead after two gunmen opened fire on a gathering of Jewish people celebrating Hanukkah.</p><br><p>Fianna Fáil is expected to hold a meeting of the parliamentary party this week to discuss a review into the handling of its disastrous presidential election campaign.</p><br><p>The granddaughter of the man described as “the father of the Dublin film trade” <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/stage/2025/12/15/the-father-and-son-who-built-an-irish-entertainment-empire/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">is paying tribute to Maurice Elliman, and his son Louis.</a> The pair founded the Savoy in Dublin, Cork and Limerick as well as more than 30 other cinemas, and three Dublin theatres including The Gaeity.</p><br><p>Labubus appear to have had their day in the sun. The biggest toy trend of 2025 didn’t even make it to Christmas. <a href="https://irishtimes.com//your-money/2025/12/15/toy-story-15-fads-of-christmases-past/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">It’s prompted Pricewatch editor Conor Pope to look back at some of the other toys to have topped children’s’ Santa lists.</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>New South Wales police have confirmed the alleged attackers in yesterday’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/australia/2025/12/14/gardai-to-increase-presence-at-jewish-events-following-bondi-beach-shooting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">massacre on Bondi Beach in Australia were father and son</a>. At least 16 are dead after two gunmen opened fire on a gathering of Jewish people celebrating Hanukkah.</p><br><p>Fianna Fáil is expected to hold a meeting of the parliamentary party this week to discuss a review into the handling of its disastrous presidential election campaign.</p><br><p>The granddaughter of the man described as “the father of the Dublin film trade” <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/stage/2025/12/15/the-father-and-son-who-built-an-irish-entertainment-empire/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">is paying tribute to Maurice Elliman, and his son Louis.</a> The pair founded the Savoy in Dublin, Cork and Limerick as well as more than 30 other cinemas, and three Dublin theatres including The Gaeity.</p><br><p>Labubus appear to have had their day in the sun. The biggest toy trend of 2025 didn’t even make it to Christmas. <a href="https://irishtimes.com//your-money/2025/12/15/toy-story-15-fads-of-christmases-past/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">It’s prompted Pricewatch editor Conor Pope to look back at some of the other toys to have topped children’s’ Santa lists.</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Daniel Aruebose inquiry upgraded to homicide, and other top stories today</title>
			<itunes:title>Daniel Aruebose inquiry upgraded to homicide, and other top stories today</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>11:15</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/11/homicide-investigation-opens-into-the-death-of-toddler-daniel-aruebose/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A homicide investigation has been opened into the death of toddler Daniel Aruebose</a>, whose remains were found on open ground in Donabate, north Dublin, last September. Our crime and security editor Conor Lally says today would have been the boy’s eighth birthday.</p><br><p>The RTE payments scandal gripped the nation in 2023, and RTE’s director general at the time, Dee Forbes, ended up leaving her role in the wake of the controversy. Due to poor health she hasn’t spoken publicly since, but <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/12/justine-mccarthy-rtes-problems-are-rolling-on-and-we-still-havent-heard-from-dee-forbes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">in her column today Justine McCarthy argues</a> her legacy and influence over RTE remains; and the Irish public deserves an explanation.</p><br><p>A trad session in Naas, Co Kildare was part of the red carpet treatment for a visiting European Commissioner, during a tense week of negotiations for Ireland. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2025/12/12/nitrates-derogation-ireland-european-union-commission-farmers-environment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jack Power is writing about the horse trading going on behind the scenes</a> of the nitrates derogation talks and asks what might Ireland have had to do to secure the exemption for another three years.</p><br><p>Our Washington correspondent Keith Duggan is writing about a polarising Democratic congresswoman in Texas called Jasmine Crockett, who has a unique ability to get under the skin of US president Donald Trump.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/11/homicide-investigation-opens-into-the-death-of-toddler-daniel-aruebose/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">A homicide investigation has been opened into the death of toddler Daniel Aruebose</a>, whose remains were found on open ground in Donabate, north Dublin, last September. Our crime and security editor Conor Lally says today would have been the boy’s eighth birthday.</p><br><p>The RTE payments scandal gripped the nation in 2023, and RTE’s director general at the time, Dee Forbes, ended up leaving her role in the wake of the controversy. Due to poor health she hasn’t spoken publicly since, but <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/12/justine-mccarthy-rtes-problems-are-rolling-on-and-we-still-havent-heard-from-dee-forbes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">in her column today Justine McCarthy argues</a> her legacy and influence over RTE remains; and the Irish public deserves an explanation.</p><br><p>A trad session in Naas, Co Kildare was part of the red carpet treatment for a visiting European Commissioner, during a tense week of negotiations for Ireland. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2025/12/12/nitrates-derogation-ireland-european-union-commission-farmers-environment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Jack Power is writing about the horse trading going on behind the scenes</a> of the nitrates derogation talks and asks what might Ireland have had to do to secure the exemption for another three years.</p><br><p>Our Washington correspondent Keith Duggan is writing about a polarising Democratic congresswoman in Texas called Jasmine Crockett, who has a unique ability to get under the skin of US president Donald Trump.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Heightened risk from hostile actors, and Patrick Freyne on Meghan Markle festive special</title>
			<itunes:title>Heightened risk from hostile actors, and Patrick Freyne on Meghan Markle festive special</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:52</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>heightened-risk-of-hostile-attack-and-patrick-freyne-on-megh</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Ireland may be targeted by hostile actors in 2026 as it hosts the European Union presidency, and there is “considerable” concern it lacks capacity to defend against such attacks, a new paper has warned.</p><br><p>Meanwhile it’s emerged a “dark vessel” was spotted in the Irish Sea around the same time as the Naval Service noted five drones near the flight path of the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.</p><br><p>A marathon dispute over a Dublin family home has been halted by a judge. The legal row began in 2001 and the brother and sister involved have since died. But legal proceedings are planned over the property’s transfer.</p><br><p>The Irish Times has learned of what appears to be a mass eviction at an old Georgian building on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/10/mass-eviction-on-mountjoy-square-i-dont-know-where-to-go-with-the-babies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mountjoy Square</a> in Dublin 1.</p><p>It is hard to be kind about Meghan Markle’s festive Netflix special “With Love, Meghan,” but you can count on our features writer <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2025/12/11/dear-trish-im-worried-about-my-friend-meg-when-she-isnt-frantically-crafting-shes-taking-hostages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Patrick Freyne</a> to try,</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Ireland may be targeted by hostile actors in 2026 as it hosts the European Union presidency, and there is “considerable” concern it lacks capacity to defend against such attacks, a new paper has warned.</p><br><p>Meanwhile it’s emerged a “dark vessel” was spotted in the Irish Sea around the same time as the Naval Service noted five drones near the flight path of the Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy last week.</p><br><p>A marathon dispute over a Dublin family home has been halted by a judge. The legal row began in 2001 and the brother and sister involved have since died. But legal proceedings are planned over the property’s transfer.</p><br><p>The Irish Times has learned of what appears to be a mass eviction at an old Georgian building on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/10/mass-eviction-on-mountjoy-square-i-dont-know-where-to-go-with-the-babies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mountjoy Square</a> in Dublin 1.</p><p>It is hard to be kind about Meghan Markle’s festive Netflix special “With Love, Meghan,” but you can count on our features writer <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/tv-radio/2025/12/11/dear-trish-im-worried-about-my-friend-meg-when-she-isnt-frantically-crafting-shes-taking-hostages/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Patrick Freyne</a> to try,</p><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Elon Musk taking Comisiún na Meán to court, and today’s other top stories</title>
			<itunes:title>Elon Musk taking Comisiún na Meán to court, and today’s other top stories</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:00</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Elon Musk is to take a case <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/09/elon-musk-and-x-granted-high-court-permission-to-challenge-coimisiun-na-mean-investigation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">against Comisiún na Meán </a>personally, as well as via his social media company X, after being granted permission in the High Court.</p><br><p>Board members and tech executives could be held liable for content on their platforms that poses a danger to children, under a r<a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2025/12/10/age-classifications-on-websites-and-apps-could-be-introduced-under-online-safety-reform-plans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">adical reform of our online safety regulations</a>.</p><br><p>British spy agencies helped the IRA double-agent codenamed Stake knife evade arrest for conspiracy to murder by<a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/10/ira-double-agent-and-murderer-very-well-rewarded-financially-by-british-army-report-reveals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> taking him “on holiday.”</a> Twice. As part of Operation Kenova, an interim report <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/09/kenova-report-finds-no-evidence-of-british-collusion-with-loyalists-over-dublin-and-monaghan-bombings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has also found “no evidence”</a> of systemic British state collusion with the loyalist gang that carried out the Dublin Monaghan bombings in 1974.</p><br><p>Joanne Hunt is wondering if you are investing your savings, and if not, why not? Don’t know how to get started? Read her article in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/10/were-a-nation-of-savers-but-why-dont-we-invest-our-hard-earned-cash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Your Money</a> today.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Elon Musk is to take a case <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/09/elon-musk-and-x-granted-high-court-permission-to-challenge-coimisiun-na-mean-investigation/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">against Comisiún na Meán </a>personally, as well as via his social media company X, after being granted permission in the High Court.</p><br><p>Board members and tech executives could be held liable for content on their platforms that poses a danger to children, under a r<a href="https://irishtimes.com/health/2025/12/10/age-classifications-on-websites-and-apps-could-be-introduced-under-online-safety-reform-plans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">adical reform of our online safety regulations</a>.</p><br><p>British spy agencies helped the IRA double-agent codenamed Stake knife evade arrest for conspiracy to murder by<a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/10/ira-double-agent-and-murderer-very-well-rewarded-financially-by-british-army-report-reveals/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> taking him “on holiday.”</a> Twice. As part of Operation Kenova, an interim report <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/09/kenova-report-finds-no-evidence-of-british-collusion-with-loyalists-over-dublin-and-monaghan-bombings/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">has also found “no evidence”</a> of systemic British state collusion with the loyalist gang that carried out the Dublin Monaghan bombings in 1974.</p><br><p>Joanne Hunt is wondering if you are investing your savings, and if not, why not? Don’t know how to get started? Read her article in <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/10/were-a-nation-of-savers-but-why-dont-we-invest-our-hard-earned-cash/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Your Money</a> today.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Apartment prices out of reach, Kenova report, and should you buy a Christmas present for your child’s teacher? </title>
			<itunes:title>Apartment prices out of reach, Kenova report, and should you buy a Christmas present for your child’s teacher? </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:24</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Only the top 20 percent of earners in Ireland can afford to rent an apartment, and only the top 40% can buy one. The findings are contained in a new report from the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland.</p><br><p>The final report into the activities of the British army’s top IRA mole during the troubles will be released today. It is not expected the double-agent codenamed Stakeknife - widely accepted as Freddie Scappaticci - will be named.</p><br><p>Saturday’s firebombing of a house in Co. Offaly, which killed 4 year old Tadhg Farrell and his grand-aunt Mary Holt, may have been done to intimidate Tadhg’s father Aaron Holt, currently on remand in Midlands prison.</p><br><p>Netflix’s deal to buy out Warner Brothers Discovery has the potential to reshape Hollywood forever if it doesn’t fall foul of antitrust laws in the US. Media columnist <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/09/netflix-casts-an-unhappy-chill-over-hollywood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hugh Linehan explains the significance</a> of the mega merger.</p><br><p>And what is the correct etiquette when it comes to buying your child’s teacher a gift at Christmas? And why does it feel like it’s becoming a competitive sport, driven largely by parents themselves? Jen Hogan has garnered opinion from teachers and parents alike.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Only the top 20 percent of earners in Ireland can afford to rent an apartment, and only the top 40% can buy one. The findings are contained in a new report from the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland.</p><br><p>The final report into the activities of the British army’s top IRA mole during the troubles will be released today. It is not expected the double-agent codenamed Stakeknife - widely accepted as Freddie Scappaticci - will be named.</p><br><p>Saturday’s firebombing of a house in Co. Offaly, which killed 4 year old Tadhg Farrell and his grand-aunt Mary Holt, may have been done to intimidate Tadhg’s father Aaron Holt, currently on remand in Midlands prison.</p><br><p>Netflix’s deal to buy out Warner Brothers Discovery has the potential to reshape Hollywood forever if it doesn’t fall foul of antitrust laws in the US. Media columnist <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/09/netflix-casts-an-unhappy-chill-over-hollywood/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Hugh Linehan explains the significance</a> of the mega merger.</p><br><p>And what is the correct etiquette when it comes to buying your child’s teacher a gift at Christmas? And why does it feel like it’s becoming a competitive sport, driven largely by parents themselves? Jen Hogan has garnered opinion from teachers and parents alike.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Offaly murder victims named, e-scooters, the M50 and Christmas culture wars </title>
			<itunes:title>Offaly murder victims named, e-scooters, the M50 and Christmas culture wars </itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:51</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>a-mass-eviction-of-tenants-and-some-of-todays-other-top-stor</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Gardaí suspect criminals involved in the drugs trade in the Midlands were behind the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/08/double-murder-investigation-launched-after-boy-and-great-aunt-killed-in-house-firebombing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">firebombing of a family home</a> in Edenderry, Co Offaly, on Saturday night that claimed the life of a young boy and his grandaunt.&nbsp;</p><br><p>E-scooters are now the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in children, despite the fact they’re now illegal for under 16s. Doctors and road safety advocates are appealing to people <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/08/parents-warned-to-avoid-e-scooters-for-christmas-amid-worries-over-dangers-to-young-people/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">not to buy them as presents this Christmas</a>.</p><br><p>In his <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/08/joe-humphreys-culture-wars-dublin-winter-lights-festival-elon-musk-x/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unthinkable column</a>, Joe Humphreys is writing about Elon Musk’s apparent gunning for Ireland’s “wokerati” who *checks notes* want to ban Christmas. He points out it is capitalism that is corrupting the values of the nativity.</p><br><p>The M50 is maxed out. Now what? Professor of Transportation Research at Trinity College Dublin, Brian Caulfield, is writing about <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/08/prof-brian-caulfield-m50-dublin-gridlock-congestion-solutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to get it moving again</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Gardaí suspect criminals involved in the drugs trade in the Midlands were behind the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/08/double-murder-investigation-launched-after-boy-and-great-aunt-killed-in-house-firebombing/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">firebombing of a family home</a> in Edenderry, Co Offaly, on Saturday night that claimed the life of a young boy and his grandaunt.&nbsp;</p><br><p>E-scooters are now the leading cause of traumatic brain injury in children, despite the fact they’re now illegal for under 16s. Doctors and road safety advocates are appealing to people <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/08/parents-warned-to-avoid-e-scooters-for-christmas-amid-worries-over-dangers-to-young-people/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">not to buy them as presents this Christmas</a>.</p><br><p>In his <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/08/joe-humphreys-culture-wars-dublin-winter-lights-festival-elon-musk-x/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Unthinkable column</a>, Joe Humphreys is writing about Elon Musk’s apparent gunning for Ireland’s “wokerati” who *checks notes* want to ban Christmas. He points out it is capitalism that is corrupting the values of the nativity.</p><br><p>The M50 is maxed out. Now what? Professor of Transportation Research at Trinity College Dublin, Brian Caulfield, is writing about <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/12/08/prof-brian-caulfield-m50-dublin-gridlock-congestion-solutions/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to get it moving again</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Suspected Russian drones off Howth coast, and today's other top stories. ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Suspected Russian drones off Howth coast, and today's other top stories. ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 05 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:51</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>russian-drones-off-the-coast-of-co-dublin-and-a-selection-of</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>In the days since Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Ireland, it’s emerged <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/04/drones-spotted-near-zelenskiys-flight-path-to-dublin-triggering-major-security-alert/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">five drones</a> were spotted off the coast of Howth. They were spotted by the naval ship, William Butler Yeats, near the flightpath of the Ukrainian president’s aircraft.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/04/onlyfans-creators-fear-for-personal-safety-if-named-on-tax-defaulters-list/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OnlyFans creators</a> who haven’t paid their taxes don’t want their details published on the list of defaulters because they believe it could put their personal safety at risk, reports Barry O’Halloran.</p><br><p>The pain of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/05/the-pain-of-three-hour-30km-commutes-kildare-motorists-share-stories-of-m7-traffic-hell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">three-hour, 30km commutes</a>: Kildare motorists share stories of M7 traffic hell with Tim O’Brien.</p><br><p>For two decades, he’s been the Nosferatu of economic forecasting, torpedoing optimism with his ice-cold predictions. Nouriel Roubini has earned the nickname Dr. Doom which is why, Eoin Burke Kennedy writes, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/12/05/how-economys-dr-gloom-became-dr-boom/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">his latest forecast is so surprising</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>In the days since Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Ireland, it’s emerged <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/04/drones-spotted-near-zelenskiys-flight-path-to-dublin-triggering-major-security-alert/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">five drones</a> were spotted off the coast of Howth. They were spotted by the naval ship, William Butler Yeats, near the flightpath of the Ukrainian president’s aircraft.</p><br><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/12/04/onlyfans-creators-fear-for-personal-safety-if-named-on-tax-defaulters-list/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">OnlyFans creators</a> who haven’t paid their taxes don’t want their details published on the list of defaulters because they believe it could put their personal safety at risk, reports Barry O’Halloran.</p><br><p>The pain of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/05/the-pain-of-three-hour-30km-commutes-kildare-motorists-share-stories-of-m7-traffic-hell/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">three-hour, 30km commutes</a>: Kildare motorists share stories of M7 traffic hell with Tim O’Brien.</p><br><p>For two decades, he’s been the Nosferatu of economic forecasting, torpedoing optimism with his ice-cold predictions. Nouriel Roubini has earned the nickname Dr. Doom which is why, Eoin Burke Kennedy writes, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/economy/2025/12/05/how-economys-dr-gloom-became-dr-boom/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">his latest forecast is so surprising</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Irish-trained mercenaries in Russia, and today's other top stories from the Irish Times ]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Irish-trained mercenaries in Russia, and today's other top stories from the Irish Times ]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 04 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:05</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>irish-trained-mercenaries-in-libya-and-todays-other-top-stor</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Libyan soldiers previously trained by former Irish Defence Forces personnel have appeared in Russia and have expressed fears they will be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/04/irish-trained-libyan-troops-appear-in-russia-fearing-deployment-to-ukraine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">deployed to the frontline in Ukraine</a>, writes Conor Gallagher.</p><br><p>More than 33,000 images of people disappeared, tortured and killed in Syria have been uncovered. Sally Hayden is writing about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/12/04/syrias-disappeared-leak-of-assad-torture-photos-reveals-fate-of-thousands/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">trove of photographs</a> which reveal previously unknown details about Bashar Al-Assad’s industrial killing machinery. Warning: this article contains distressing images.</p><br><p>The public service needs a complete mindset change from one of box-ticking and avoiding legal challenge, to getting things done. That’s just one of the reactions to the government’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/03/promises-were-made-before-about-clearing-blocks-to-big-projects-whats-different-this-time/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Accelerating Infrastructure plan</a> published yesterday.</p><br><p>Looking for tech gift ideas this Christmas? Don’t miss Ciara O’Brien’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2025/12/04/gift-gadgets-for-christmas-options-for-family-and-friends-in-our-festive-tech-guide/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">festive tech guide today</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Libyan soldiers previously trained by former Irish Defence Forces personnel have appeared in Russia and have expressed fears they will be <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/04/irish-trained-libyan-troops-appear-in-russia-fearing-deployment-to-ukraine/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">deployed to the frontline in Ukraine</a>, writes Conor Gallagher.</p><br><p>More than 33,000 images of people disappeared, tortured and killed in Syria have been uncovered. Sally Hayden is writing about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/middle-east/2025/12/04/syrias-disappeared-leak-of-assad-torture-photos-reveals-fate-of-thousands/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">trove of photographs</a> which reveal previously unknown details about Bashar Al-Assad’s industrial killing machinery. Warning: this article contains distressing images.</p><br><p>The public service needs a complete mindset change from one of box-ticking and avoiding legal challenge, to getting things done. That’s just one of the reactions to the government’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/12/03/promises-were-made-before-about-clearing-blocks-to-big-projects-whats-different-this-time/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Accelerating Infrastructure plan</a> published yesterday.</p><br><p>Looking for tech gift ideas this Christmas? Don’t miss Ciara O’Brien’s <a href="https://irishtimes.com/technology/2025/12/04/gift-gadgets-for-christmas-options-for-family-and-friends-in-our-festive-tech-guide/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">festive tech guide today</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Taxi protests, juggling work and sick days, and the best cars to buy in 2026</title>
			<itunes:title>Taxi protests, juggling work and sick days, and the best cars to buy in 2026</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:06</itunes:duration>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Taxi drivers are to stage <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2025/12/02/further-traffic-disruption-likely-as-taxi-drivers-schedule-uber-protest-for-wednesday/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">another protest</a> in Dublin this evening in their ongoing campaign against a fixed-fare option introduced by booking platform Uber.</p><br><p>Winter is here and if you’re a parent of small children, so is the juggle of trying to work when coughs, colds and tummy bugs mean they can’t go to school or creche. Joanne Hunt writes about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/03/what-are-your-leave-options-from-work-if-your-illness-strikes-household-this-winter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">different types of leave</a> you can avail of when something’s got to give.</p><br><p>If you’re thinking of buying a new car in 2026, our motoring journalists Neil Briscoe and Michael McAleer have hand-picked the best vehicles on the market as we head into a new year. Today is the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2025/12/03/best-cars-to-buy-in-2026-company-cars-and-executive-rides/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">second instalment</a> of a three part series. You can check out the best family and EV options <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2025/11/26/best-cars-to-buy-in-2026-from-family-evs-to-city-runabouts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>We all have a death day lurking unseen. When’s mine? When’s yours? It might sound morbid but Róisín Ingle hopes her column will actually be the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2025/12/03/roisin-ingle-we-all-have-a-death-day-lurking-unseen-whens-mine-whens-yours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">uplifting read you need today</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Taxi drivers are to stage <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/dublin/2025/12/02/further-traffic-disruption-likely-as-taxi-drivers-schedule-uber-protest-for-wednesday/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">another protest</a> in Dublin this evening in their ongoing campaign against a fixed-fare option introduced by booking platform Uber.</p><br><p>Winter is here and if you’re a parent of small children, so is the juggle of trying to work when coughs, colds and tummy bugs mean they can’t go to school or creche. Joanne Hunt writes about the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/03/what-are-your-leave-options-from-work-if-your-illness-strikes-household-this-winter/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">different types of leave</a> you can avail of when something’s got to give.</p><br><p>If you’re thinking of buying a new car in 2026, our motoring journalists Neil Briscoe and Michael McAleer have hand-picked the best vehicles on the market as we head into a new year. Today is the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2025/12/03/best-cars-to-buy-in-2026-company-cars-and-executive-rides/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">second instalment</a> of a three part series. You can check out the best family and EV options <a href="https://irishtimes.com/motors/2025/11/26/best-cars-to-buy-in-2026-from-family-evs-to-city-runabouts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>.</p><br><p>We all have a death day lurking unseen. When’s mine? When’s yours? It might sound morbid but Róisín Ingle hopes her column will actually be the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/life-style/people/2025/12/03/roisin-ingle-we-all-have-a-death-day-lurking-unseen-whens-mine-whens-yours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">uplifting read you need today</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Zelenskiy in Ireland, President Connolly's 2018 Syria trip, Herzog Park, and 12 best value restaurants]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Zelenskiy in Ireland, President Connolly's 2018 Syria trip, Herzog Park, and 12 best value restaurants]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 02 Dec 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:15</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/02/major-garda-security-operation-in-place-for-zelenskiy-visit-to-dublin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">arrived in Dublin</a> for his first official visit here. It comes at a fraught time for peace negotiations, with Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff visiting the Kremlin at the same time as President Zelenskiy <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/12/01/zelenskiy-to-arrive-at-dublin-airport-tonight-for-first-official-visit-to-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">meets Irish leaders</a>.</p><br><p>Fresh information has been revealed about <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/12/02/new-detail-emerges-about-president-catherine-connollys-2018-trip-to-syria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">President Catherine Connolly’s controversial trip to Syria</a> in 2018, when she was photographed in the vicinity of a militia group leader. Colm Keena has been speaking to the Irish activist and Assad supporter who facilitated Clare Daly and Mick Wallace’s trip the year before.</p><br><p>A number of our reporters are covering the proposal to dename Herzog Park in Dublin’s Rathgar,&nbsp;and remove the reference to former Israeli president Chaim Herzog.</p><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/who-was-chaim-herzog-the-belfast-born-israeli-president-after-whom-a-dublin-park-is-named/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ella Sloane</a> profiles the Belfast-born, Dublin-raised man who would go on to be leader. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/motion-condemning-martins-interference-in-herzog-park-issue-to-be-heard-at-council-meeting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Olivia Kelly</a> reports on a stormy meeting of Dublin City Councillors over the proposed denaming. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/02/the-politics-of-renaming-streets-roads-and-public-spaces/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ronan McGreevy</a> examines similar controversies down through the decades over renaming streets. And the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2025/12/02/letters-to-the-editor-december-2nd-on-small-landlords-denaming-herzog-park-and-vodafones-christmas-ad/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">letters to the editor</a> feature two sample perspectives on the issue.</p><br><p>Finding a restaurant that provides decent food, service and ambiance at moderate price is increasingly difficult these days. Our restaurant critic Corinna Hardgrave, however, has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/02/twelve-irish-restaurants-where-youll-find-particularly-good-value/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">picked 12 particularly good value</a> eateries from across the country.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/12/02/major-garda-security-operation-in-place-for-zelenskiy-visit-to-dublin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">arrived in Dublin</a> for his first official visit here. It comes at a fraught time for peace negotiations, with Donald Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff visiting the Kremlin at the same time as President Zelenskiy <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/12/01/zelenskiy-to-arrive-at-dublin-airport-tonight-for-first-official-visit-to-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">meets Irish leaders</a>.</p><br><p>Fresh information has been revealed about <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/12/02/new-detail-emerges-about-president-catherine-connollys-2018-trip-to-syria/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">President Catherine Connolly’s controversial trip to Syria</a> in 2018, when she was photographed in the vicinity of a militia group leader. Colm Keena has been speaking to the Irish activist and Assad supporter who facilitated Clare Daly and Mick Wallace’s trip the year before.</p><br><p>A number of our reporters are covering the proposal to dename Herzog Park in Dublin’s Rathgar,&nbsp;and remove the reference to former Israeli president Chaim Herzog.</p><p><a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/who-was-chaim-herzog-the-belfast-born-israeli-president-after-whom-a-dublin-park-is-named/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ella Sloane</a> profiles the Belfast-born, Dublin-raised man who would go on to be leader. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/motion-condemning-martins-interference-in-herzog-park-issue-to-be-heard-at-council-meeting/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Olivia Kelly</a> reports on a stormy meeting of Dublin City Councillors over the proposed denaming. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/02/the-politics-of-renaming-streets-roads-and-public-spaces/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ronan McGreevy</a> examines similar controversies down through the decades over renaming streets. And the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2025/12/02/letters-to-the-editor-december-2nd-on-small-landlords-denaming-herzog-park-and-vodafones-christmas-ad/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">letters to the editor</a> feature two sample perspectives on the issue.</p><br><p>Finding a restaurant that provides decent food, service and ambiance at moderate price is increasingly difficult these days. Our restaurant critic Corinna Hardgrave, however, has <a href="https://irishtimes.com/food/2025/12/02/twelve-irish-restaurants-where-youll-find-particularly-good-value/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">picked 12 particularly good value</a> eateries from across the country.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Creaking infrastructure, playoff in Prague, learning Irish again, and Christmas prep</title>
			<itunes:title>Creaking infrastructure, playoff in Prague, learning Irish again, and Christmas prep</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 01 Dec 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:01</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>If you’re commuting to work right now on a jam-packed train or bus, you’ll want to read <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/30/cliff-taylor-can-the-infrastructure-plan-tackle-irelands-packed-trains-and-gridlock/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cliff Taylor’s look ahead</a> to the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce report.</p><br><p>Considering whether to go to Prague for the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup play off against the Czech Republic? Dubliner Cóilín O’Connor has lived there since 1995 and has a few <a href="https://irishtimes.com//abroad/2025/12/01/playoffs-in-prague-avoid-800-flights-with-the-train-and-other-tips-from-an-irish-local/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tips on how to avoid the sky high air fares</a>.</p><br><p>What’s it like to <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/huge-demand-for-irish-language-classes-as-adult-learners-return-to-school-decades-on/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">learn Irish again as an adult?</a> Completely different, reports Jack White. He’s been speaking to a number of people taking evening classes at Conradh na Gaeilge. “Raging I didn’t do this years ago,” says one.</p><br><p>And “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/01/regift-the-bejaysus-out-of-it-21-tips-for-a-cheaper-christmas-from-readers-and-from-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">regift the bejaysis out of it</a>,” says Conor Pope. Our Pricewatch editor is doling out his top tips for a cheaper (and greener) Christmas 2025. There’s some “helpful” advice from some of our readers too.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>If you’re commuting to work right now on a jam-packed train or bus, you’ll want to read <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/30/cliff-taylor-can-the-infrastructure-plan-tackle-irelands-packed-trains-and-gridlock/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cliff Taylor’s look ahead</a> to the Accelerating Infrastructure Taskforce report.</p><br><p>Considering whether to go to Prague for the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup play off against the Czech Republic? Dubliner Cóilín O’Connor has lived there since 1995 and has a few <a href="https://irishtimes.com//abroad/2025/12/01/playoffs-in-prague-avoid-800-flights-with-the-train-and-other-tips-from-an-irish-local/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tips on how to avoid the sky high air fares</a>.</p><br><p>What’s it like to <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/12/01/huge-demand-for-irish-language-classes-as-adult-learners-return-to-school-decades-on/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">learn Irish again as an adult?</a> Completely different, reports Jack White. He’s been speaking to a number of people taking evening classes at Conradh na Gaeilge. “Raging I didn’t do this years ago,” says one.</p><br><p>And “<a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/12/01/regift-the-bejaysus-out-of-it-21-tips-for-a-cheaper-christmas-from-readers-and-from-us/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">regift the bejaysis out of it</a>,” says Conor Pope. Our Pricewatch editor is doling out his top tips for a cheaper (and greener) Christmas 2025. There’s some “helpful” advice from some of our readers too.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Flag wars, Enoch Burke, rent rises, and the Irish Book Awards</title>
			<itunes:title>Flag wars, Enoch Burke, rent rises, and the Irish Book Awards</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 28 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:07</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>A decision has been made not to remove tricolours erected across Dublin city, over fears it could put council workers at risk. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/28/flag-wars-the-battles-in-local-communities-over-tricolours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Gallagher has been investigating</a> the proliferation of Ireland flags hung on lamp posts across the country.</p><br><p>The manner of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/27/diarmaid-ferriter-enoch-burke-ferocious-desire-for-martyrdom-roots-irish-life/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Enoch Burke and his family’s combative approach to protesting</a> can be traced back through the decades, and according to Diarmaid Ferriter, is particularly similar to the catholic anti-divorce crusaders of the 1980s.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/11/27/number-of-tenancies-ended-by-landlords-increases-by-35-rtb-data-shows/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">number of people being served notice to quit</a> their tenancies has risen again, mostly due to landlords selling up. Niamh Towey has been analysing the latest figures from the Residential Tenancies Board.</p><br><p>And if you’re looking for some inspiration for your next read, you might be interested to see who <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/books/2025/11/27/irish-book-awards-2025-winners-roisin-odonnell-claire-gleeson-and-manchan-magan-among-winners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">won big at last night’s Irish Book Awards</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A decision has been made not to remove tricolours erected across Dublin city, over fears it could put council workers at risk. <a href="https://irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/28/flag-wars-the-battles-in-local-communities-over-tricolours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Gallagher has been investigating</a> the proliferation of Ireland flags hung on lamp posts across the country.</p><br><p>The manner of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/27/diarmaid-ferriter-enoch-burke-ferocious-desire-for-martyrdom-roots-irish-life/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Enoch Burke and his family’s combative approach to protesting</a> can be traced back through the decades, and according to Diarmaid Ferriter, is particularly similar to the catholic anti-divorce crusaders of the 1980s.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/11/27/number-of-tenancies-ended-by-landlords-increases-by-35-rtb-data-shows/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">number of people being served notice to quit</a> their tenancies has risen again, mostly due to landlords selling up. Niamh Towey has been analysing the latest figures from the Residential Tenancies Board.</p><br><p>And if you’re looking for some inspiration for your next read, you might be interested to see who <a href="https://irishtimes.com/culture/books/2025/11/27/irish-book-awards-2025-winners-roisin-odonnell-claire-gleeson-and-manchan-magan-among-winners/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">won big at last night’s Irish Book Awards</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Clondalkin attack likened to Mexican cartels, and IP applicants sleep rough to "demonstrate homelessness"]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Clondalkin attack likened to Mexican cartels, and IP applicants sleep rough to "demonstrate homelessness"]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 27 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:23</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>clondalkin-attack-likened-to-mexican-cartels-and-ip-applican</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Around 20 male International Protection applicants slept rough on a wintry Tuesday <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/27/asylum-seekers-sleep-rough-in-freezing-temperatures-as-3500-refugee-beds-lie-empty/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">despite thousands of beds available</a>. Sources have told Kitty Holland officials want to them to “demonstrate homelessness” in order to prove their need.</p><br><p>Meanwhile <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/27/how-many-people-moved-to-ireland-last-year-and-how-many-were-asylum-seekers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pat Leahy analyses</a> Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s claim that immigration is increasing at the fastest rate in the EU, and Ireland can’t cope.</p><br><p>The HSE tried to conceal the fact it was <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/27/hse-tried-to-conceal-ties-to-company-at-centre-of-forged-garda-vetting-controversy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">on the cusp of awarding a state contract</a> to the company at the centre of a false Garda vetting scandal. Jack Power reveals a review of Good People homecare’s dealings with Túsla, resulted in an employee being <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/27/review-into-falsified-garda-vetting-uncovered-serious-disclosure/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">prohibited from any further work with vulnerable children.</a></p><br><p>Monday’s drug-related attack on a woman in Clondalkin in Dublin was <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/26/woman-remains-in-serious-condition-following-fire-attack-at-house-in-clondalkin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">akin to “cartel tactics,”</a> a Garda source has told Conor Gallagher.</p><br><p>And <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/26/woman-remains-in-serious-condition-following-fire-attack-at-house-in-clondalkin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ukrainians on the streets of Kyiv</a> have told Eastern European correspondent Dan McLaughlin that Donald Trump’s “peace plan” with Russia is a “total betrayal.”</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Around 20 male International Protection applicants slept rough on a wintry Tuesday <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/27/asylum-seekers-sleep-rough-in-freezing-temperatures-as-3500-refugee-beds-lie-empty/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">despite thousands of beds available</a>. Sources have told Kitty Holland officials want to them to “demonstrate homelessness” in order to prove their need.</p><br><p>Meanwhile <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/27/how-many-people-moved-to-ireland-last-year-and-how-many-were-asylum-seekers/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pat Leahy analyses</a> Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan’s claim that immigration is increasing at the fastest rate in the EU, and Ireland can’t cope.</p><br><p>The HSE tried to conceal the fact it was <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/27/hse-tried-to-conceal-ties-to-company-at-centre-of-forged-garda-vetting-controversy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">on the cusp of awarding a state contract</a> to the company at the centre of a false Garda vetting scandal. Jack Power reveals a review of Good People homecare’s dealings with Túsla, resulted in an employee being <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/27/review-into-falsified-garda-vetting-uncovered-serious-disclosure/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">prohibited from any further work with vulnerable children.</a></p><br><p>Monday’s drug-related attack on a woman in Clondalkin in Dublin was <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/26/woman-remains-in-serious-condition-following-fire-attack-at-house-in-clondalkin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">akin to “cartel tactics,”</a> a Garda source has told Conor Gallagher.</p><br><p>And <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/26/woman-remains-in-serious-condition-following-fire-attack-at-house-in-clondalkin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ukrainians on the streets of Kyiv</a> have told Eastern European correspondent Dan McLaughlin that Donald Trump’s “peace plan” with Russia is a “total betrayal.”</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Ireland ‘flying blind’ financially, and a new name for Dublin Airport?</title>
			<itunes:title>Ireland ‘flying blind’ financially, and a new name for Dublin Airport?</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 26 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:41</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeUrl>ireland-flying-blind-financially-and-a-new-name-for-dublin-a</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>“Flying blind” and “budgeting like there’s no tomorrow” – the government’s management of the economy is being roundly <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/26/coalition-budgeting-like-theres-no-tomorrow-warns-fiscal-watchdog/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">criticised by the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council</a>.</p><br><p>A group of Ranelagh residents have launched a <a href="https://irishtimes.com//ireland/2025/11/25/dublins-metrolink-to-face-legal-challenge-from-ranelagh-residents/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">legal challenge to the Metrolink</a> project – with the potential to stall the long-awaited underground rail line.</p><br><p>Consumer Affairs correspondent <a href="https://irishtimes.com/podcasts/in-the-news/black-friday-how-to-bag-a-bargain-and-avoid-being-scammed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Pope is urging caution</a> in the Black Friday online shopping frenzy.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/2025/11/25/rds-to-be-renamed-laya-arena-under-new-partnership-deal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RDS has been renamed</a> the Laya Arena in a new naming rights partnership, while a bill to <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/25/lemass-or-parrott-bill-to-rename-dublin-airport-brought-forward-in-dail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rename Dublin Airport after this former Taoiseach</a> has progressed in the Dáil.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>“Flying blind” and “budgeting like there’s no tomorrow” – the government’s management of the economy is being roundly <a href="https://irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/26/coalition-budgeting-like-theres-no-tomorrow-warns-fiscal-watchdog/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">criticised by the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council</a>.</p><br><p>A group of Ranelagh residents have launched a <a href="https://irishtimes.com//ireland/2025/11/25/dublins-metrolink-to-face-legal-challenge-from-ranelagh-residents/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">legal challenge to the Metrolink</a> project – with the potential to stall the long-awaited underground rail line.</p><br><p>Consumer Affairs correspondent <a href="https://irishtimes.com/podcasts/in-the-news/black-friday-how-to-bag-a-bargain-and-avoid-being-scammed/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Conor Pope is urging caution</a> in the Black Friday online shopping frenzy.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/2025/11/25/rds-to-be-renamed-laya-arena-under-new-partnership-deal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RDS has been renamed</a> the Laya Arena in a new naming rights partnership, while a bill to <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/25/lemass-or-parrott-bill-to-rename-dublin-airport-brought-forward-in-dail/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">rename Dublin Airport after this former Taoiseach</a> has progressed in the Dáil.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Defence Forces Tribunal demands names, and nursing homes want immigration rules relaxed</title>
			<itunes:title>Defence Forces Tribunal demands names, and nursing homes want immigration rules relaxed</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:54:46 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:12</itunes:duration>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>The Minister for Justice and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces must hand over the names and contact details of people who may have blocked, or simply ignored, complaints of abuse within army ranks. Ellen Coyne has the details.</p><br><p>Nursing home owners want immigration rules relaxed so they can hire more workers from outside the EU, UK and European Economic Area. Martin Wall says they’re seeking changes to the so-called 50/50 rule.</p><br><p>Tech workers in Ireland think the general public has an unrealistic idea of who they are and what they really do.&nbsp;Three of them have been speaking to Hugh Linehan in the first of our series, The Professionals, which looks at Ireland through the lens of different categories of worker.</p><br><p>And winner of The Traitors Ireland, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/11/24/i-think-when-you-grow-up-with-not-a-lot-of-money-you-want-to-make-sure-youre-never-stuck/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vanessa Ogbonno, has been chatting to Tony Clayton-Lea for Me and My Money</a>. She describes herself as a saver, but her most extravagant purchase ever was a bit of retail therapy to take the sting out of losing a football competition.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The Minister for Justice and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces must hand over the names and contact details of people who may have blocked, or simply ignored, complaints of abuse within army ranks. Ellen Coyne has the details.</p><br><p>Nursing home owners want immigration rules relaxed so they can hire more workers from outside the EU, UK and European Economic Area. Martin Wall says they’re seeking changes to the so-called 50/50 rule.</p><br><p>Tech workers in Ireland think the general public has an unrealistic idea of who they are and what they really do.&nbsp;Three of them have been speaking to Hugh Linehan in the first of our series, The Professionals, which looks at Ireland through the lens of different categories of worker.</p><br><p>And winner of The Traitors Ireland, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/your-money/2025/11/24/i-think-when-you-grow-up-with-not-a-lot-of-money-you-want-to-make-sure-youre-never-stuck/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vanessa Ogbonno, has been chatting to Tony Clayton-Lea for Me and My Money</a>. She describes herself as a saver, but her most extravagant purchase ever was a bit of retail therapy to take the sting out of losing a football competition.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Peter McVerry Trust’s peacock enclosure, and Ireland to face Czechia in World Cup playoff</title>
			<itunes:title>Peter McVerry Trust’s peacock enclosure, and Ireland to face Czechia in World Cup playoff</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 21 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>9:08</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>peter-mcverry-trusts-peacock-enclosure-and-ireland-to-face-c</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The crisis-hit homeless charity, the Peter McVerry Trust, has revealed a former CEO signed off on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/20/peter-mcverry-trust-spent-money-on-peacock-enclosure-at-period-property-it-had-purchased/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spending for a peacock enclosure</a> at one of its residential sites. Sarah Burns is reporting on the astounding revelation at the Public Accounts Committee yesterday.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/in-the-news/world-cup-playoffs-why-draw-against-czech-republic-is-good-news-for-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Republic of Ireland men’s team will face Czechia</a> in the first of potentially two qualifying play-offs next year. Is that a game we can realistically win? Gavin Cummiskey is speaking to In The News.</p><br><p>The<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/20/jim-browns-battle-in-washington-to-free-his-irish-wife-from-ice-detention/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> husband of an Irish citizen, detained by ICE agents</a> in the US as part of Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, has given emotional testimony at a congressional committee about Donna Hughes-Brown’s treatment in custody. Keith Duggan has been speaking to Jim Brown about his bid to free the 59 year-old.</p><br><p>And <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2025/11/21/low-salaries-inconsistent-public-services-and-an-impossible-housing-market-were-key-reasons-i-emigrated/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reader Shane McLoughlin</a> has been in touch in a letter to the editor about how “low salaries, inconsistent public services and an impossible housing market were key reasons” why he emigrated to Australia. He doesn’t think the government’s attempt at persuading skilled construction workers to move home is connected to reality when nothing has meaningfully changed in the six years he’s been living in Melbourne.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The crisis-hit homeless charity, the Peter McVerry Trust, has revealed a former CEO signed off on <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/20/peter-mcverry-trust-spent-money-on-peacock-enclosure-at-period-property-it-had-purchased/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">spending for a peacock enclosure</a> at one of its residential sites. Sarah Burns is reporting on the astounding revelation at the Public Accounts Committee yesterday.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/podcasts/in-the-news/world-cup-playoffs-why-draw-against-czech-republic-is-good-news-for-ireland/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Republic of Ireland men’s team will face Czechia</a> in the first of potentially two qualifying play-offs next year. Is that a game we can realistically win? Gavin Cummiskey is speaking to In The News.</p><br><p>The<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/20/jim-browns-battle-in-washington-to-free-his-irish-wife-from-ice-detention/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> husband of an Irish citizen, detained by ICE agents</a> in the US as part of Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown, has given emotional testimony at a congressional committee about Donna Hughes-Brown’s treatment in custody. Keith Duggan has been speaking to Jim Brown about his bid to free the 59 year-old.</p><br><p>And <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/letters/2025/11/21/low-salaries-inconsistent-public-services-and-an-impossible-housing-market-were-key-reasons-i-emigrated/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">reader Shane McLoughlin</a> has been in touch in a letter to the editor about how “low salaries, inconsistent public services and an impossible housing market were key reasons” why he emigrated to Australia. He doesn’t think the government’s attempt at persuading skilled construction workers to move home is connected to reality when nothing has meaningfully changed in the six years he’s been living in Melbourne.</p><br><p>Presented by Aideen Finnegan.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Alert over Russian spy ship, and No Comment from Kneecap</title>
			<itunes:title>Alert over Russian spy ship, and No Comment from Kneecap</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 20 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:45</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>691e25b65e54c6660a35fc9c</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>alert-over-russian-spy-ship-and-no-comment-from-kneecap</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCcjxJvsL2xR+KJuzrk9Ux3nT8lgmh398yXUsnrBNd8Ine/nzfbSeKKdlYAOS8qKqVxSGXmZHjmD9CTus4fjJBbvqxagJu6ieg5RoP8QvCgrT5scykYfkB3VdiLONC18ddk0KI/qvL694+1x8XimbrjNLudhPfRCM/oApTK4rNZ/Pem+5hekDkd9ljqrH0oQ/pb30z+zmSH9K/HWfQr2ymmk]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/19/russian-spy-ship-on-course-for-irish-waters-with-uk-threatening-military-options/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">suspected Russian spy ship</a>, off the coast of Scotland, is believed to planning to enter Ireland’s wider waters. Conor Gallagher is writing about the Yantar today and why it’s provoking a strong diplomatic response in Westminster.</p><br><p>Plans for the long-awaited <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/11/19/dublin-metrolink-construction-will-need-about-8000-workers-committee-told/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Metrolink project could require up to 8,000 workers</a>; many of whom may have to be housed in Ireland for the duration of construction. Martin Wall has been covering yesterday’s Oireachtas Committee meeting.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/19/norths-religious-education-is-in-breach-of-human-rights-law-uk-court-rules/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">teaching of religion in schools in Northern Ireland</a> will have to be made compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights after a landmark Supreme Court ruling.</p><br><p>And Ed Power is reviewing the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/music/review/2025/11/19/kneecap-release-new-single-about-terrorism-case-against-mo-chara/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">new track from hip-hop trio Kneecap</a>; their first release since a British court dismissed a terrorism case against Mo Chara in September.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/19/russian-spy-ship-on-course-for-irish-waters-with-uk-threatening-military-options/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">suspected Russian spy ship</a>, off the coast of Scotland, is believed to planning to enter Ireland’s wider waters. Conor Gallagher is writing about the Yantar today and why it’s provoking a strong diplomatic response in Westminster.</p><br><p>Plans for the long-awaited <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/oireachtas/2025/11/19/dublin-metrolink-construction-will-need-about-8000-workers-committee-told/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Metrolink project could require up to 8,000 workers</a>; many of whom may have to be housed in Ireland for the duration of construction. Martin Wall has been covering yesterday’s Oireachtas Committee meeting.</p><br><p>The <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/19/norths-religious-education-is-in-breach-of-human-rights-law-uk-court-rules/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">teaching of religion in schools in Northern Ireland</a> will have to be made compliant with the European Convention on Human Rights after a landmark Supreme Court ruling.</p><br><p>And Ed Power is reviewing the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/music/review/2025/11/19/kneecap-release-new-single-about-terrorism-case-against-mo-chara/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">new track from hip-hop trio Kneecap</a>; their first release since a British court dismissed a terrorism case against Mo Chara in September.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>Paschal Donohoe departs, and is it worth buying a battery to store electricity?</title>
			<itunes:title>Paschal Donohoe departs, and is it worth buying a battery to store electricity?</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 19 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:54</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>691cdc5c295fc6e848d194b2</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>paschal-donohoe-departs-and-is-it-worth-buying-a-battery-to</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Finance Minister <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/who-is-paschal-donohoe-profile-of-minister-for-finance-stepping-down-for-role-at-world-bank/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Paschal Donohoe</a>’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/government-suffers-major-blow-as-paschal-donohoe-to-take-up-world-bank-job/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">surprise resignation</a> yesterday prompts a <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/donohoes-departure-is-a-huge-blow-to-the-coherence-of-the-coalition/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cabinet reshuffle</a> and questions over Ireland’s future fiscal strategy.</p><br><p>Child and family agency, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/18/tusla-took-six-months-to-act-on-risks-facing-some-children-in-north-dublin-review-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Túsla, has been criticised</a> over its welfare and protection services in Dublin’s north inner city.</p><br><p>Kathy Sheridan is taking umbridge with the Housing Minister James Browne over the issue of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/19/kathy-sheridan-i-split-the-family-home-with-my-daughter-heres-what-the-government-needs-to-do/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subdividing family homes into flats</a>.</p><br><p>And Neil Briscoe is answering a reader’s question regarding home battery storage. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/motors/2025/11/18/ev-is-it-worth-buying-a-battery-to-store-electricity/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Are they worth the significant outlay?</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Finance Minister <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/who-is-paschal-donohoe-profile-of-minister-for-finance-stepping-down-for-role-at-world-bank/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Paschal Donohoe</a>’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/government-suffers-major-blow-as-paschal-donohoe-to-take-up-world-bank-job/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">surprise resignation</a> yesterday prompts a <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/18/donohoes-departure-is-a-huge-blow-to-the-coherence-of-the-coalition/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cabinet reshuffle</a> and questions over Ireland’s future fiscal strategy.</p><br><p>Child and family agency, <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/social-affairs/2025/11/18/tusla-took-six-months-to-act-on-risks-facing-some-children-in-north-dublin-review-finds/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Túsla, has been criticised</a> over its welfare and protection services in Dublin’s north inner city.</p><br><p>Kathy Sheridan is taking umbridge with the Housing Minister James Browne over the issue of <a href="https://irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/19/kathy-sheridan-i-split-the-family-home-with-my-daughter-heres-what-the-government-needs-to-do/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">subdividing family homes into flats</a>.</p><br><p>And Neil Briscoe is answering a reader’s question regarding home battery storage. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/motors/2025/11/18/ev-is-it-worth-buying-a-battery-to-store-electricity/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Are they worth the significant outlay?</a></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title>A ‘distressing’ child abduction case and winter arrives early</title>
			<itunes:title>A ‘distressing’ child abduction case and winter arrives early</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 18 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:32</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>691b903b67ed28baecea6a13</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>a-distressing-child-abduction-case-and-winter-arrives-early</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris asked<em> </em>his Polish counterpart for help in resolving<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/18/tanaiste-asked-polish-counterpart-for-help-resolving-distressing-child-abduction-case/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em> </em>a child abduction case involving a young girl with<em> </em>dual Irish-Polish citizenship</a>. Orla Ryan has the story.</p><br><p>A leading psychologist diagnoses the causes behind <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/18/opinion-children-should-not-be-waiting-13-years-to-see-a-psychologist-it-doesnt-have-to-be-like-this/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland's lengthy waiting lists for child mental health services</a>.</p><br><p>Winter arrives early this week in the form of an '<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/17/arctic-airmass-to-bring-snow-frost-and-ice-to-ireland-over-coming-days/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">arctic air mass</a>' - find out what to expect.</p><br><p>The eruption of joy following Ireland's World Cup qualification win over Hungary continued into Monday - especially on Portland Row, home of hat-trick hero Troy Parrott.</p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs Simon Harris asked<em> </em>his Polish counterpart for help in resolving<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/18/tanaiste-asked-polish-counterpart-for-help-resolving-distressing-child-abduction-case/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em> </em>a child abduction case involving a young girl with<em> </em>dual Irish-Polish citizenship</a>. Orla Ryan has the story.</p><br><p>A leading psychologist diagnoses the causes behind <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/2025/11/18/opinion-children-should-not-be-waiting-13-years-to-see-a-psychologist-it-doesnt-have-to-be-like-this/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland's lengthy waiting lists for child mental health services</a>.</p><br><p>Winter arrives early this week in the form of an '<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/17/arctic-airmass-to-bring-snow-frost-and-ice-to-ireland-over-coming-days/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">arctic air mass</a>' - find out what to expect.</p><br><p>The eruption of joy following Ireland's World Cup qualification win over Hungary continued into Monday - especially on Portland Row, home of hat-trick hero Troy Parrott.</p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
		</item>
		<item>
			<title><![CDATA[Ireland's famous win and Miss Piggy gets the Barbie treatment]]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Ireland's famous win and Miss Piggy gets the Barbie treatment]]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:15</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>6919bf9fc66f88b092b25491</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>irelands-world-cup-dream-and-miss-piggy-gets-the-barbie-trea</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCcFAe0fnxBJy/1ju4Qxy1fh8gO4DvlGA40yms2g0/hOkcrfHIopjTygHFqGwwOPKFIai4SuTvs86Lx3UYCyl6ZshU3vqZdXI+g0wpRdT4DNPvF2V7FBe9cPn+SJMw/fY+Pknu4sBc9VBJJRw5EynTXkZz3Ja67Ds/8o8y2Ewgyy6/PsOmqvyw1/CF8G2Hw5c6Pqmikv1jfTX8GGdb3KNXOX]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Ireland’s dream of returning to the World Cup is still alive after the men’s national team beat Hungary in Budapest on Sunday afternoon. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/11/16/world-cup-playoffs-who-are-irelands-potential-opponents-and-when-is-the-draw/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">What next for&nbsp;the boys in green</a>? Read our <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/11/16/troy-parrotts-completes-stunning-hat-trick-at-the-death-to-keep-irelands-world-cup-dream-alive/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">match report</a> and Ken Early’s soccer column.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In this era of scarce and unaffordable housing, <a href="www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/11/17/irelands-changing-suburbs-hill-16-neighbourhoods-denser-districts-and-border-burbs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland’s suburbs</a> are undergoing a transformation, with old patterns reversing.&nbsp;Our new series looks how the suburban landscape is changing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He’s&nbsp;been called Spain’s answer to Charlie Kirk. Guy Hedgecoe looks at the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/11/15/a-whitewashing-of-francoism-spanish-youth-flirt-with-far-right-as-anniversary-of-dictators-death-approaches/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">growing appeal of&nbsp;young far-right&nbsp;activitst&nbsp;Vito Quiles</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/film/2025/11/16/hi-yah-miss-piggy-was-one-of-my-most-hostile-interviewees-now-shes-in-line-for-the-barbie-treatment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Miss Piggy&nbsp;is set for the Barbie treatment,</a> film critic Donald Clarke recalls his&nbsp;fraught&nbsp;encounter with&nbsp;the&nbsp;hostile&nbsp;muppet.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Ireland’s dream of returning to the World Cup is still alive after the men’s national team beat Hungary in Budapest on Sunday afternoon. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/11/16/world-cup-playoffs-who-are-irelands-potential-opponents-and-when-is-the-draw/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">What next for&nbsp;the boys in green</a>? Read our <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/2025/11/16/troy-parrotts-completes-stunning-hat-trick-at-the-death-to-keep-irelands-world-cup-dream-alive/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">match report</a> and Ken Early’s soccer column.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In this era of scarce and unaffordable housing, <a href="www.irishtimes.com/ireland/housing-planning/2025/11/17/irelands-changing-suburbs-hill-16-neighbourhoods-denser-districts-and-border-burbs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ireland’s suburbs</a> are undergoing a transformation, with old patterns reversing.&nbsp;Our new series looks how the suburban landscape is changing.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>He’s&nbsp;been called Spain’s answer to Charlie Kirk. Guy Hedgecoe looks at the <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/europe/2025/11/15/a-whitewashing-of-francoism-spanish-youth-flirt-with-far-right-as-anniversary-of-dictators-death-approaches/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">growing appeal of&nbsp;young far-right&nbsp;activitst&nbsp;Vito Quiles</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>And&nbsp;with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/film/2025/11/16/hi-yah-miss-piggy-was-one-of-my-most-hostile-interviewees-now-shes-in-line-for-the-barbie-treatment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Miss Piggy&nbsp;is set for the Barbie treatment,</a> film critic Donald Clarke recalls his&nbsp;fraught&nbsp;encounter with&nbsp;the&nbsp;hostile&nbsp;muppet.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>Remembering murdered Irishman John Mackey and the latest housing plan unveiled</title>
			<itunes:title>Remembering murdered Irishman John Mackey and the latest housing plan unveiled</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Fri, 14 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:51</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/another-new-housing-plan-remembering-murdered-irishman-john</link>
			<acast:episodeId>691627957a0043834af8898e</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>another-new-housing-plan-remembering-murdered-irishman-john</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCflYv+xARG9vYx9DSH+fyduuB/od5a8riuLSwLjsdAnHTiEZ89fgJaZBsxmjIDFuxiZgoU7EffjJqUrNgsuB9t4CTn1Uslq9EhmFnJ8C/M+GqBfurrlkxyUjJwI0qmcM8ksHzhyECSk6e9eOYPU79Q4AdlSMD/eavnDRaV/LMNO00SkiGXNQAWrGL1mfhFfaUw93TAGWG7/YxPOmq9wxYF6]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>The government really understands this is its last chance to get housing right, writes political correspondent Ellen Coyne, who has been analysing <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/13/100m-fund-aimed-at-tackling-childhood-homelessness-but-no-clarity-on-how-many-will-benefit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the latest strategy to solve the housing crisis</a>.</p><br><p>“I’m nearly 70 and he would still slip me a fiver,” John Mackey’s niece Pat Schan tells Mark Paul. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/13/john-mackeys-family-remember-him-as-perfect-uncle-after-man-found-guilty-of-his-murder/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The family of the murdered Irish man in London has been speaking fondly of their uncle</a>, following the conviction of his killer yesterday.</p><br><p>Sinn Féin says it won’t tolerate far right elements in the party, after confirming <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/13/sinn-fein-expels-member-whose-house-was-searched-partner-arrested-in-far-right-terrorism-inquiry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">it expelled a member who’s house was raided</a>, and partner arrested, in a cross border investigation into the alleged plot to destroy Galway Mosque.</p><br><p>Denis Staunton’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/asia-pacific/2025/11/14/going-with-the-flow-feng-shui-master-turns-hat-makers-head/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">letter from Beijing</a> outlines the peculiar reason his friends cancelled long-standing plans to have him over for dinner. Bad feng shui.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>The government really understands this is its last chance to get housing right, writes political correspondent Ellen Coyne, who has been analysing <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/politics/2025/11/13/100m-fund-aimed-at-tackling-childhood-homelessness-but-no-clarity-on-how-many-will-benefit/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the latest strategy to solve the housing crisis</a>.</p><br><p>“I’m nearly 70 and he would still slip me a fiver,” John Mackey’s niece Pat Schan tells Mark Paul. <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/13/john-mackeys-family-remember-him-as-perfect-uncle-after-man-found-guilty-of-his-murder/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The family of the murdered Irish man in London has been speaking fondly of their uncle</a>, following the conviction of his killer yesterday.</p><br><p>Sinn Féin says it won’t tolerate far right elements in the party, after confirming <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2025/11/13/sinn-fein-expels-member-whose-house-was-searched-partner-arrested-in-far-right-terrorism-inquiry/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">it expelled a member who’s house was raided</a>, and partner arrested, in a cross border investigation into the alleged plot to destroy Galway Mosque.</p><br><p>Denis Staunton’s <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/world/asia-pacific/2025/11/14/going-with-the-flow-feng-shui-master-turns-hat-makers-head/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">letter from Beijing</a> outlines the peculiar reason his friends cancelled long-standing plans to have him over for dinner. Bad feng shui.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Children ‘harassed’ in Citywest and turkey prices to rise this Christmas</title>
			<itunes:title>Children ‘harassed’ in Citywest and turkey prices to rise this Christmas</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>8:35</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/children-harassed-in-citywest-and-turkey-prices-to-rise-this</link>
			<acast:episodeId>6915050461157d146cffb7ca</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>children-harassed-in-citywest-and-turkey-prices-to-rise-this</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>A teacher at Scoil Aoife near Citywest in Dublin tells Kitty Holland that pupils living in the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/13/they-surround-our-car-families-at-citywest-ipas-centre-tell-of-ongoing-harassment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">International Protection centre are being harassed and intimidated</a>.</p><br><p>Conor McGregor’s attempt to overturn a civil jury’s finding that he was responsible for the rape of Dublin woman Nikita Hand, is to be <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/12/supreme-court-judges-to-meet-this-week-to-consider-whether-to-hear-conor-mcgregor-appeal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">examined by a panel of Supreme Court judges</a> today. Mary Carolan explains the process.</p><br><p>Donald Trump’s threat to sue the BBC <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/2025/11/12/bbcs-near-permacrisis-is-a-cautionary-tale-for-rte-about-what-can-happen-if-editorial-oversight-starts-to-drift/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">should act as a warning bell for RTÉ</a> and all public service institutions, writes Laura Slattery.</p><br><p>Consumer affairs correspondent Conor Pope has been speaking <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/13/butchers-and-supermarkets-not-expecting-bird-flu-to-cause-christmas-turkey-supply-issue/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">to butchers and retailers about the threat posed by bird flu</a> this Christmas. There’s good news and bad news.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>A teacher at Scoil Aoife near Citywest in Dublin tells Kitty Holland that pupils living in the <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/13/they-surround-our-car-families-at-citywest-ipas-centre-tell-of-ongoing-harassment/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">International Protection centre are being harassed and intimidated</a>.</p><br><p>Conor McGregor’s attempt to overturn a civil jury’s finding that he was responsible for the rape of Dublin woman Nikita Hand, is to be <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/courts/2025/11/12/supreme-court-judges-to-meet-this-week-to-consider-whether-to-hear-conor-mcgregor-appeal/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">examined by a panel of Supreme Court judges</a> today. Mary Carolan explains the process.</p><br><p>Donald Trump’s threat to sue the BBC <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/culture/2025/11/12/bbcs-near-permacrisis-is-a-cautionary-tale-for-rte-about-what-can-happen-if-editorial-oversight-starts-to-drift/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">should act as a warning bell for RTÉ</a> and all public service institutions, writes Laura Slattery.</p><br><p>Consumer affairs correspondent Conor Pope has been speaking <a href="https://irishtimes.com/ireland/2025/11/13/butchers-and-supermarkets-not-expecting-bird-flu-to-cause-christmas-turkey-supply-issue/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">to butchers and retailers about the threat posed by bird flu</a> this Christmas. There’s good news and bad news.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<item>
			<title>The growing problem of porn addiction and a plot twist in a corporate rift</title>
			<itunes:title>The growing problem of porn addiction and a plot twist in a corporate rift</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>7:26</itunes:duration>
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			<link>https://shows.acast.com/early-edition/episodes/the-growing-problem-with-porn-and-a-plot-twist-in-a-corporat</link>
			<acast:episodeId>69138355c1ed8717c5019c95</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>the-growing-problem-with-porn-and-a-plot-twist-in-a-corporat</acast:episodeUrl>
			<acast:settings><![CDATA[FYjHyZbXWHZ7gmX8Pp1rmbKbhgrQiwYShz70Q9/ffXZMTtedvdcRQbP4eiLMjXzCKLPjEYLpGj+NMVKa+5C8pL4u/EOj1Vw4h5MMJYp0lCduFsB+BE8AXF/hUry6joAuTKsNw4iC3qwxswx9bC+LC5KmIjV0UMKSWW5T/1DaM1JjiRxJisNEQ/4lfABlYfHypo3ZqDOqlI1ytM8amHznxNHwQ/mNZK1SVbAlw2QACZhU7mkiAZo27jTpOqP6sQfq8opRCJiUvB+AwZPjiEjxgAqL1sZ5GiXLWpWuqX90kzCkp6K20vLCFKe5G1KCAo5w]]></acast:settings>
			<itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
			<itunes:image href="https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9/1774994909786-adee17e6-73fb-4b2f-a361-6c5118b0a653.jpeg"/>
			<description><![CDATA[<p>Early Edition is a new podcast from The Irish Times, bringing you four of our top stories in under ten minutes each morning from Monday to Friday.</p><p>On today’s episode:</p><br><p>There’s a plot twist in the row between DAA, which runs Dublin and Cork airports, and its CEO Kenny Jacobs over a €1m exit deal. Current affairs editor, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/12/daa-board-pushes-back-as-minister-suggests-a-reconciliation-with-ceo-kenny-jacobs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arthur Beesley breaks it down</a>.</p><br><p>There’s been a sharp increase in the number of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2025/11/11/increasing-number-of-men-seeking-treatment-for-addiction-to-porn-says-ucd-professor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish men seeking treatment for porn addiction</a>. A leading psychiatrist speaks to health correspondent Shauna Bowers.</p><br><p>From today, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/transport/2025/11/11/why-ryanair-is-scrapping-physical-boarding-passes-and-what-it-means-for-you/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">physical boarding passes are a thing of the past on Ryanair flights</a>. Conor Pope says you must use your smartphone to avoid a €55 charge.</p><br><p>And London correspondent Mark Paul contemplates accents, as <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/2025/11/12/oh-my-days-bruv-when-your-irish-kids-start-talking-like-their-english-friends/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">his Dublin-born children begin to speak like their English friends</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Early Edition is a new podcast from The Irish Times, bringing you four of our top stories in under ten minutes each morning from Monday to Friday.</p><p>On today’s episode:</p><br><p>There’s a plot twist in the row between DAA, which runs Dublin and Cork airports, and its CEO Kenny Jacobs over a €1m exit deal. Current affairs editor, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/12/daa-board-pushes-back-as-minister-suggests-a-reconciliation-with-ceo-kenny-jacobs/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Arthur Beesley breaks it down</a>.</p><br><p>There’s been a sharp increase in the number of <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/health/2025/11/11/increasing-number-of-men-seeking-treatment-for-addiction-to-porn-says-ucd-professor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Irish men seeking treatment for porn addiction</a>. A leading psychiatrist speaks to health correspondent Shauna Bowers.</p><br><p>From today, <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/transport/2025/11/11/why-ryanair-is-scrapping-physical-boarding-passes-and-what-it-means-for-you/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">physical boarding passes are a thing of the past on Ryanair flights</a>. Conor Pope says you must use your smartphone to avoid a €55 charge.</p><br><p>And London correspondent Mark Paul contemplates accents, as <a href="https://irishtimes.com/world/2025/11/12/oh-my-days-bruv-when-your-irish-kids-start-talking-like-their-english-friends/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">his Dublin-born children begin to speak like their English friends</a>.</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title><![CDATA[Connolly's presidency begins and a dispute over the meaning of 'fast food']]></title>
			<itunes:title><![CDATA[Connolly's presidency begins and a dispute over the meaning of 'fast food']]></itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Tue, 11 Nov 2025 06:00:00 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>10:34</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>69125377c1ed8717c5b543ca</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>connollys-presidency-begins-and-a-dispute-over-the-meaning-o</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[<p>Today on Early Edition: </p><br><p>President-elect Catherine Connolly will be inaugurated this afternoon. Follow our live blog on <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>. </p><br><p>Caroline O'Doherty has <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2025/11/10/cop30-some-optimism-as-latecomer-countries-submit-emission-reduction-plans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the latest from the Cop 30 climate summit in Brazil</a>. </p><br><p>A well-known burger restaurant <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/10/bunsen-burger-chain-takes-court-action-over-department-of-enterprise-fast-food-classification/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">is going to court to argue that it is not 'fast food'</a>. </p><br><p>And meet the patients <a href="irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2025/11/11/there-were-so-many-little-failings-the-patients-improving-irelands-health-system/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fighting for small but meaningful improvements to our health care system</a>. </p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[<p>Today on Early Edition: </p><br><p>President-elect Catherine Connolly will be inaugurated this afternoon. Follow our live blog on <a href="irishtimes.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">irishtimes.com</a>. </p><br><p>Caroline O'Doherty has <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/environment/2025/11/10/cop30-some-optimism-as-latecomer-countries-submit-emission-reduction-plans/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the latest from the Cop 30 climate summit in Brazil</a>. </p><br><p>A well-known burger restaurant <a href="https://www.irishtimes.com/business/2025/11/10/bunsen-burger-chain-takes-court-action-over-department-of-enterprise-fast-food-classification/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">is going to court to argue that it is not 'fast food'</a>. </p><br><p>And meet the patients <a href="irishtimes.com/health/your-wellness/2025/11/11/there-were-so-many-little-failings-the-patients-improving-irelands-health-system/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fighting for small but meaningful improvements to our health care system</a>. </p><br><p><br></p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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			<title>Early Edition is a new podcast from The Irish Times</title>
			<itunes:title>Early Edition is a new podcast from The Irish Times</itunes:title>
			<pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2025 23:21:04 GMT</pubDate>
			<itunes:duration>0:22</itunes:duration>
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			<acast:episodeId>690bdbe0b27ff20ceb3a32e1</acast:episodeId>
			<acast:showId>690b5df3317c91fd9a7765c9</acast:showId>
			<acast:episodeUrl>early-edition-is-a-new-podcast-from-the-irish-times</acast:episodeUrl>
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			<description><![CDATA[A morning news update from The Irish Times. Our top stories five days a week. Coming soon. <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></description>
			<itunes:summary><![CDATA[A morning news update from The Irish Times. Our top stories five days a week. Coming soon. <hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>]]></itunes:summary>
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		<itunes:category text="News">
			<itunes:category text="Daily News"/>
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