The Claire Byrne Show

In this episode of The Clare Byrne Show, veterinarian Pete the Vet discusses how seasonal allergies affect pets differently than humans. While humans experience hay fever through respiratory symptoms, dogs and cats often manifest pollen allergies through itchy skin, ears, and feet due to a compromised skin barrier function. The discussion covers the challenges of diagnosing these conditions, the distinction between pollen allergies and food allergies, and the evolution of treatments from traditional steroids to advanced monoclonal antibodies. The conversation also addresses practical management for pet owners, including cost-effective methods like frequent washing or using protective clothing, as well as managing dietary triggers through hydrolyzed diets. Additionally, Pete discusses the importance of blood donations for veterinary hospitals and how local vets maintain informal blood banks to assist animals in critical need.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the UK government's initiative to roll out free plug-in battery packs to eligible households as a strategy to manage electricity bills and grid resilience. Featuring Paul Davis, a lecturer in public procurement at DCU, the episode examines how these suitcase-sized batteries store off-peak energy to reduce usage during peak times. The discussion compares the UK's direct distribution model with Ireland's reliance on grants and highlights the technical, legislative, and infrastructural challenges facing Ireland in adopting similar localized energy solutions.

Host Clare Byrne interviews several Irish cheesemakers, including Michael Finnegan of Boyne Valley Cheese and Gypsy Gifford of Leitrim Hill Creamery, about their production processes and histories. The discussion covers the evolution of the Irish cheese industry from a small-scale community to a source of national pride, as well as the personal stories behind their artisanal methods. The speakers also discuss the challenges and opportunities of expanding artisan food businesses in Ireland, focusing on diversification into products like ice cream and fudge. They explore the importance of community connection and the significant untapped potential for agricultural development and direct farm-to-consumer sales within the Irish food industry.

DJ Marty Galfoyle joins The Clare Byrne Show to discuss his two-year journey as a volunteer for Childline, an ISPCC service. He details the intensive training process required to provide a non-judgmental listening service and explains the shift from traditional phone calls to more discreet messaging services like WhatsApp among young people. The conversation covers the impact of social media on youth anxiety, the challenges of handling difficult overnight shifts, and the protocols regarding confidentiality and safeguarding. Galfoyle also highlights the importance of supporting the charity through the Woody's Hero campaign.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the landmark 1.3 billion euro settlement involving Anthropic AI and hundreds of Irish authors. The discussion focuses on a class action lawsuit centered on the use of copyrighted books from the shadow library Libgen to train large language models without author consent or compensation. Authors Mary Morrissey and Vanessa O'Loughlin discuss the implications of data mining, the specifics of the US settlement for registered works post-2022, and the potential legal precedents for journalists, musicians, and artists facing similar scraping practices by big tech companies.

This episode of The Clare Byrne Show provides updates on the escalating wildfire crisis affecting France and Spain. Reporters Elaine Cobb and Clena Ufflin detail the situation in Bordeaux, where fires are approaching the city gates, causing significant disruptions to rail, motorway, and aviation infrastructure. The report highlights the strain on local resources, the use of EU emergency mechanisms, and the impact on tourism and displaced populations. The coverage extends to Spain, where intense heat and dry conditions have led to uncontrollable blazes creating their own weather patterns. With 170,000 people affected and numerous roads closed around Madrid, authorities are coordinating national responses and calling for international assistance. The broadcast emphasizes the ongoing risks posed by rising temperatures and the importance of following local emergency guidance.

Dr. Frances Nolan, a historian from the UCD School of History, joins The Clare Byrne Show to discuss the deep cultural history and evolution of horse racing in Ireland. The conversation explores the origins of steeplechasing in 18th-century Cork, tracing its development from a wager between huntsmen to a regulated professional sport. The episode examines how social and political factors, including Penal Laws and the expansion of the railroad system, shaped the accessibility of racing for both the Anglo-Irish gely and the Catholic peasantry. Dr. Nolan also touches upon the enduring passion for the sport, the rise of legendary figures like Willie Mullins, and the inherent connection between the Irish people and equestrian traditions.

This episode explores the emotional aftermath of Mayo's historic All-Ireland victory, featuring an interview with Shane Fitzgerald, who went viral after collapsing in tears following the win. The discussion covers the intense relief of ending a 75-year wait, personal tributes to loved ones, and the widespread celebrations across Mayo. The episode also features insights from former player Austin O'Malley on the team's mental grit and reports from Castlebar, where fans and players reflect on the victory. The conversation concludes with reflections on the emotional weight of past defeats and the lasting impact of previous championship losses.

Travel content creator Aideen Fitzmaurice joins The Clare Byrne Show to highlight underrated staycation destinations across Ireland, specifically focusing on the counties of Leitrim, Roscommon, and Cavan. The discussion explores unique accommodations ranging from woodland hideaways and luxury castles to high-end glamping cabins, alongside local activities such as hiking Slievenamon, visiting the Arigna Mining Experience, and exploring forest parks. The episode provides practical recommendations for food, spa culture, and budget-friendly sightseeing for travelers looking to explore the Midlands and Northwest.

In this episode of Never Have I Ever, host Clara Burns interviews solicitor and festival promoter Philip Marr about his experience running Forest Fest. The conversation covers Philip's dual life as a lawyer and entrepreneur, the community atmosphere of his festival, and the extreme challenges he faced during a particularly rainy year. The discussion explores the logistical complexities of managing a music festival, including site management, navigating social media feedback, and the importance of community support in Emo. Philip also reflects on his strategy for booking 'match fit' artists to maintain a high-quality boutique experience and discusses the ongoing process of planning for future years.

This episode features a debate on the Clare Byrne Show regarding inheritance tax reform, focusing on thresholds for family members and the impact of capital acquisitions tax. The discussion also covers the political standoff between the Minister for Justice and solicitors over legal aid rates and system efficiency. The program further explores tensions surrounding legal aid reforms and court appearances, alongside a debate on whether young people working part-time should contribute to household expenses. Finally, the conversation addresses the mental load of 'emotional labour' experienced by women.

An Italian man, Franco Milasso von Rosenfranz, has been sentenced to prison for orchestrating an elaborate hoax involving a fake ancient amphitheatre in north-eastern Italy. Constructed using stuccoed blocks, fiberglass, and paper mache, the site was presented as a 4th-century AD ruin to tourists, who were charged a 40 euro entry fee. The investigation into the fraud, which began in 2016, reveals how the perpetrator used his persona as a philanthropist and entrepreneur to sell the lie. The report details the physical construction of the site, its inclusion in local government pamphlets, and the legal consequences facing the perpetrator, including a prison sentence and significant damages. The story also touches upon the broader context of art forgeries and archaeological crime in Italy.

Former Irish international Keith Tracey joins Clare Byrne to discuss a viral video showing a fight between two England under-16 players in a hotel room in Turkey. The discussion explores the complexities of supervision for large groups of young athletes and the challenges coaches face in maintaining 24/7 oversight. Tracey shares personal anecdotes from his time in underage football, highlighting a perceived issue where talented players are often given lighter disciplinary consequences. He emphasizes that while complete supervision is difficult, there must be a standard of professionalism expected from young players both on and off the pitch.

Clare Byrne and Off The Balls' Colin Buckley preview the upcoming weekend of Irish sport, focusing heavily on the All-Ireland Football Final between Kerry and Mayo. The discussion covers tactical threats within the Mayo squad, including Ryan O'Donoghue and Kobe McDonald, as well as superstitions surrounding David Clifford's jersey number. The analysis also compares the paths both teams took through the championship, weighing Kerry's battle-hardened status against Mayo's potential to play unencumbered by expectation. The segment concludes with a look at the League of Ireland Premier Division, specifically the upcoming match between St. Patrick's Athletic and Dundalk. The conversation touches on the title race dynamics involving Shamrock Rovers and the importance of competitive parity within the league.

In this episode of The Clare Byrne Show, documentary maker and ocean conservationist Ken O'Sullivan discusses the extraordinary intelligence and hunting behaviors of orcas. He highlights recent footage from the Gulf of California showing a pair of orcas using a 'hold and ram' tactic on sunfish, as well as their highly coordinated group hunting techniques used to catch herring in Norway. The conversation also covers the complex communication methods of orcas, such as echolocation and whistling, and touches upon the devastating impact of human-made chemicals like PCBs and DDTs on local populations. O'Sullivan shares stories of orca sightings in Ireland and the tragic decline of the West Coast community pod, which has dwindled from ten animals to just two.

Reporter Sarah Madden conducts an undercover investigation into the prevalence of counterfeit goods in Ireland, ranging from designer clothing and accessories to food, drink, and skincare. The episode explores the ease of finding fakes through online marketplaces like AliExpress and social media, as well as physical retail locations such as vape shops. Beyond the economic impact on brands and tax revenue, the discussion highlights significant consumer safety risks, including fire hazards from substandard electronics and dangerous contaminants like arsenic in cosmetics or botulinum toxin in counterfeit Botox. The investigation also delves into the ethical implications of the counterfeit trade, connecting it to larger criminal activities such as money laundering and human trafficking. Through interviews with retail experts and dermatologists, the program examines how the cost-of-living crisis and aesthetic consumerism drive the demand for 'super fakes' that are increasingly difficult for even experienced authenticators to distinguish from genuine luxury items.

In anticipation of the All-Ireland Senior Football Final between Mayo and Kerry, Henry McKean travels to the parish of Crossmolina GAA Club to capture the local atmosphere. The report explores the deep-seated connection between the community and the Mayo team, featuring interviews with players, club officials, and supporters. Discussions touch upon the legacy of the 1951 winning team, the dismissal of long-standing superstitions like the 'curse,' and the immense pride felt for local talents such as Kobe McDonald, Conor, and Jordan playing on the national stage.

This episode examines the government's review of childcare fees and its impact on providers adhering to 2021 price freezes. The discussion features a debate between a childcare CEO, who argues that new administrative burdens threaten sector stability, and a journalist, who highlights the financial strain on families and the lack of pricing transparency. The conversation further explores the heated debate regarding the profitability and regulation of the childcare sector. While some suggest large-scale providers are lucrative businesses, others argue that most providers operate on thin margins and face significant financial pressure due to a lack of government investment.

The Clare Byrne Show explores a series of viral stories and trending news topics from the past week. The discussion covers Robbie Williams' recent interview mishap involving a mint, the unique tradition of rewarding Spanish soccer players with tomatoes in their hometowns, and the intense social media scrutiny faced by the wife of UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham regarding her fashion choices. Additionally, the episode highlights the internet phenomenon of Jimothy the raccoon, a Seattle resident born with short spine syndrome, and concludes with a creative attempt by YouTubers to sneak into a cinema screening using a cardboard Trojan horse.

The episode covers two major wildfire crises currently impacting Europe. In County Tipperary, Ireland, independent councillor Richie Malloy provides an update on the massive blaze at Slievenamon, which has burned 700 hectares over five days. The discussion details the efforts of local farmers and emergency services, the impact of weather conditions like fog and wind, and the potential for upcoming rain to extinguish the flames. The second segment features journalist Graeme Keely reporting from Spain, where a national emergency has been declared in the Madrid and Avila regions. The report highlights large-scale evacuations, requests for EU aerial support, and extreme heatwaves with temperatures expected to reach up to 47 degrees Celsius. The episode also touches upon the broader implications of climate change on wildfire frequency and the impact of extreme heat on the European tourism industry.

Jim Clarkin, CEO of Oxfam Ireland, discusses a new report detailing the massive scale of reconstruction required for Gaza, estimated at $71 billion. The conversation covers the profound human toll, including significant loss of life and a drastic drop in life expectancy, as well as the destruction of essential social infrastructure like schools, hospitals, and agriculture. Clarkin emphasizes that any recovery effort must be Palestinian-led and address both physical rebuilding and the restoration of the social fabric. He highlights the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire, the prevention of further annexation in the West Bank, and the importance of international political support to ensure Gaza remains part of a unified Palestinian territory.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the growing debate surrounding inheritance tax reform in Ireland, specifically focusing on the potential removal of tax relief for individuals without children. The discussion features Bridget Timmon from End Discrimination in Inheritance Tax and Assistant Professor Barra Roantree from Trinity College Dublin. They examine the tension between the principle of fairness for non-traditional family structures and the significant fiscal impact such reforms would have on the exchequer. The conversation covers the economic implications of equalizing tax thresholds, the potential for increased tax planning through agricultural reliefs, and the constitutional considerations regarding family structures. The episode also incorporates listener feedback regarding the impact of inheritance tax on only children and the high cost of property in urban areas.

Neste episódio, o físico e comunicador Phil Smith explica a ciência por trás da sobrevivência das plantas e gramados durante períodos de seca. O debate aborda como a grama entra em um estado de dormência para conservar energia e água, comparando esse processo biológico ao modo de economia de energia de um celular. A conversa explora estratégias práticas de jardinagem para enfrentar o clima seco, incluindo a importância de regar profundamente em vez de superficialmente, o uso de cobertura morta (mulch) para reter umidade e como ajustar a altura do cortador de grama pode beneficiar o ecossistema local. O episódio oferece orientações sobre como manter a saúde do jardim de forma ecológica e eficiente.

In this episode of The Clare Byrne Show, host Ciara Byrne interviews Brendan Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin, regarding new research into the role of physical touch in conflict resolution. Drawing parallels from studies on chimpanzees and bonobos, the discussion explores how gestures like holding hands or a reassuring handshake can signal safety, reduce cortisol levels, and transform a confrontational 'me versus you' dynamic into a collaborative 'us.' The conversation also covers the importance of respecting personal boundaries, the physiological benefits of touch, and practical ways to demonstrate active listening through attention and eye contact.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the commencement of the federal terrorism trial involving Haydi Matar, the individual convicted of the attempted murder of author Salman Rushdie. US-based journalist Sarah Firth provides an in-depth report on the legal proceedings, detailing the prosecution's allegations that Matar acted to support a known terrorist organization and fulfill a fatwa issued by Iran. The discussion covers the defense's argument regarding the lack of evidence for organizational direction, the harrowing video evidence presented to jurors, and the historical context of the fatwa and its connection to previous unsolved violence.

Clare Byrne interviews solicitor Cathy McDarby regarding the escalating tensions between criminal legal aid solicitors and the Minister for Justice, Jim O'Callaghan. The discussion focuses on an upcoming meeting between the Law Society and the Minister, addressing disputes over the flat fee system, claims of unpaid certificates under Regulation 741, and allegations of system abuse involving high-volume charge sheets. McDarby argues for meaningful engagement that addresses the complexities of criminal practice in the district court rather than focusing solely on fee renegotiation.

Labour Councillor Michael Brennan joins The Clare Byrne Show to provide an update on the escalating wildfire in County Tipperary caused by an ongoing heatwave. Brennan describes the intense situation on the ground, noting how shifting winds and spreading smoke are threatening residential areas, wooded lands, and local infrastructure like water treatment plants. The discussion covers the massive community effort involving farmers using tractors and tankers to dampen areas, the deployment of army helicopters, and the logistical challenges faced by emergency services. Brennan also issues a plea for the public to avoid traveling to the affected villages to ensure roads remain clear for essential firefighting equipment.

A report from Henry McKean in Kerry captures the intense anticipation and community spirit ahead of the All-Ireland Senior Football Final between Kerry and Mayo. Visiting the Na Guala GAA Club in Tralee, the reporter speaks with local players, club chairpersons, and lifelong supporters about the deep-rooted connection to Gaelic football in the county. The episode explores how the sport serves as a unifying force across generations, from young children in jerseys to 95-year-old veterans of the game. The coverage highlights the cultural significance of the GAA in Kerry, describing it as part of the local DNA. Discussions touch upon the prestige of seeking a 40th All-Ireland title, the impact of legendary players like David Clifford, and the vital role of grassroots volunteers in maintaining the sport's traditions.

In this episode of The Clare Byrne Show, Jason Whelan, MD of multitrip.com, joins the studio to discuss the essentials of travel insurance during the holiday season. The discussion covers critical aspects of coverage, including catastrophe cover for wildfires in Europe, travel disruption for flight cancellations, and the necessity of declaring pre-existing medical conditions or medications. Whelan addresses common traveler concerns such as the limitations of EHIC cards, navigating car hire excess, and managing insurance for older travelers. The conversation also explores specific scenarios like pregnancy, transiting through high-risk regions like the Middle East, and claiming compensation for lost baggage or flight delays under EU 261 regulations.

The Clare Byrne Show examines the escalating military conflict between the United States and Iran, following twelve consecutive nights of US strikes against Iranian targets. Featuring insights from Ed Burke, Assistant Professor in the History of War at UCD, and Cormac McGarry, Director for Maritime Security Services at Control Risks, the discussion explores the broadening scope of the conflict beyond limited retaliation to include targeting Iranian special forces and infrastructure. The program analyzes the strategic implications for global maritime trade routes, specifically the Bab al-Mandab Strait and the Strait of Hormuz, and the potential impact on global oil prices. Additionally, the conversation covers the geopolitical ramifications of a recent US-Saudi nuclear deal, the domestic political pressures facing the Trump administration regarding war powers, and the cyclical nature of diplomacy and violence in the region.

The Clare Byrne Show discusses the upcoming Dior pre-fall fashion show scheduled for December at Trinity College Dublin. Featuring Ashley McDonald, CEO of Ico Group and founder of Ireland Fashion Week, the episode explores the significance of global luxury house Dior bringing its production to Ireland under the creative direction of Northern Irish designer Jonathan Anderson. The conversation covers the economic implications of the luxury market in Ireland, the cultural impact of hosting such a high-profile event at Trinity College, and the inspiration this moment provides for the local fashion industry.

Este episódio aborda a crise no sistema de assistência jurídica criminal na Irlanda, com foco no debate sobre a implementação de uma nova taxa fixa para advogados. A Ministra da Justiça defende a reforma como necessária para combater ineficiências e abusos, como o excesso de adiamentos processuais. A discussão expande-se para outros temas de segurança e política pública, incluindo a fiscalização de e-scooters pela polícia, os desafios da superlotação prisional e as novas diretrizes sobre imigração, deportações e centros de retorno para requerentes de asilo.

O episódio aborda a existência do 764 Network, um ecossistema online perigoso onde jovens são alvo de extorsão para cometer atos de violência e automutilação. Através de uma entrevista com o jornalista Ariel Bogle, o programa explora como essas redes operam em plataformas populares como Discord, Minecraft e Roblox, fugindo do alcance tradicional da dark web. A discussão detalha a natureza global desse fenômeno, onde vítimas muitas vezes se tornam perpetradores devido à manipulação psicológica. O conteúdo também oferece orientações para pais sobre sinais de alerta, como mudanças de comportamento e uso excessivo de tecnologia, visando prevenir a exploração sadística online.

Presenter Holly Willoughby is launching a new multi-platform lifestyle series titled 'Holly Willoughby Together' on YouTube, marking a significant departure from her traditional daytime television career. The series, produced by Hungry Bear Media, features celebrity guests such as Stanley Tucci and focuses on unfiltered content including cookery, fashion, and beauty. This move reflects a broader shift in the media landscape where established talent is increasingly bypassing traditional broadcasters to seek greater control, ownership, and direct engagement with audiences via digital platforms like YouTube.

In this episode of The Clare Byrne Show, rugby pundit and mental health advocate Brent Pope joins the studio to discuss his ongoing journey with chronic physical and mental health challenges. He opens up about dealing with undiagnosed autoimmune issues and the difficulty of navigating medical uncertainty alone. Pope reflects on a pivotal moment in his rugby career when a severe injury during All Black trials prevented him from reaching the pinnacle of the sport. He further explores his personal history with anxiety, depression, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding men's mental health to prevent the accumulation of unaddressed trauma.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the recent discovery of the wreckage of Pan Am flight Clipper Endeavour, which crash-landed off the coast of Puerto Rico in 1952. Craig Wallace, co-owner and founder of Deep Sea Vision, discusses the technical challenges of locating the plane within a deep Atlantic canyon and the emotional weight of finding a site that serves as a grave for 39 individuals. The episode details how this specific tragedy led to the implementation of modern aviation safety measures, such as pre-flight passenger safety briefings.

Dr. John Lyte, a consultant bariatric surgeon at Aurelia Hospital, discusses the Elarian Gastric Pill Balloon, a non-surgical medical device designed to assist with weight loss. The device is swallowed as a capsule and expands in the stomach to reduce gastric capacity and signal fullness to the brain for a period of four months. Dr. Lyte explains the procedure's minimal downtime, its suitability for patients with a BMI over 26, and the importance of combining the tool with long-term lifestyle changes. The conversation also touches upon the broader landscape of obesity management, including the use of medications, surgical interventions like gastric bypass, and the role of an obesogenic environment in driving obesity rates. Dr. Lyte emphasizes a personalized approach to treatment, noting that while the balloon is a useful tool for weight maintenance, it is not a magic pill and requires commitment to diet and exercise.

The Clare Byrne Show discusses the significant fire safety risks associated with counterfeit football jerseys being sold online. Featuring Helen Barnum, Head of Enforcement Outreach at the UK Intellectual Property Office, the episode explores how fake clothing fails to meet stringent product safety standards, posing dangers such as rapid flammability and chemical burns. The conversation extends beyond apparel to address the broader implications of organized crime, noting that purchasing counterfeit goods funds criminal activities like drug trafficking and that various consumer goods, including toys and car parts, are similarly compromised by safety risks.

This episode of The Clare Byrne Show explores the vital role and increasing challenges faced by Irish lifeguards during the summer bathing season. Through interviews with veteran lifeguard Harry McGuckin, water safety expert Clare McGrath, and trainee Roisin Lawless, the report details the rigorous training required for the job and the high-stakes nature of responding to emergencies in coastal, river, and lake environments. The report also addresses growing concerns regarding a lack of coordinated management and staffing across Ireland's coastline. Industry experts highlight discrepancies in lifeguard operating hours between counties and the need for a more unified approach to ensure public safety, especially as heatwaves increase the demand for water supervision.

The Clare Byrne Show explores the escalating dispute between Dublin solicitors and the Department of Justice regarding a new flat-fee payment scheme for criminal legal aid. Featuring insights from Professor of Criminal Law Yvonne Daly and solicitor Owen O'Sullivan, the discussion examines how the two-day work stoppage by criminal defence solicitors impacts the court system, trial proceedings, and access to legal advice in Garda stations. The program weighs the government's stance on efficiency against practitioners' claims that the new model is unworkable and threatens the constitutional right to representation for vulnerable individuals.

The Clare Byrne Show explores recent research indicating that women desire approximately two hours and 15 minutes of daily 'me time' to rest and recharge. Featuring psychotherapist Isolde White and journalist Tara Duggan, the discussion examines the distinction between performing household chores and achieving true quality time alone. The conversation delves into the concept of the mental load, the psychological demands of managing relationships and schedules, and the difficulty women face in setting boundaries to find uninterrupted downtime.