The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)
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- 12. Nov. 2026
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Niall Boylan is online, and nobody can hold him back. Subscribe to The Niall Boylan Show and access premium content by visiting https://niallboylan.com
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#939 Public Sector Workers: Hard Done By or Living in a Bubble?
Are Public Sector Workers Underpaid, or Has the Cost of Living Got Out of Control?In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist Ken Murray from the Daily Mail to discuss growing demands for public sector pay …
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Are Public Sector Workers Underpaid, or Has the Cost of Living Got Out of Control?
In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist Ken Murray from the Daily Mail to discuss growing demands for public sector pay increases of more than 11% and whether workers are justified in calling for even bigger wage rises.
Recent reports have highlighted a teacher earning over €51,000 who says they're struggling financially, a 51-year-old public sector employee on €78,000 living pay cheque to pay cheque, and a young HSE worker earning €43,000 who says it's simply not enough to live comfortably.
But these are salaries many private sector employees could only dream of earning. So are public sector workers genuinely underpaid, or have expectations about what constitutes a decent standard of living changed?
Niall and Ken examine the spiralling cost of housing, energy, food and everyday essentials, and ask whether increasing public sector wages will actually solve the problem or simply add to inflationary pressures, leaving everyone worse off.
With talk of industrial action and demands for pay increases of at least 10%, should public sector workers consider a national strike to force the Government's hand? And what about the private sector workers and taxpayers who may not enjoy the same pay, pensions or job security?
Is Ireland facing a genuine wages crisis, a cost of living crisis, or have we simply reached a point where even good salaries are no longer enough?
#940 Save Milo or the Family Holiday? A Husband's Shocking Suggestion
€4,500 to Save the Family Dog: Would You Pay It or Say Goodbye?In this episode, Niall takes calls from listeners about a heartbreaking family dilemma involving an 11-year-old dog named Milo, whose life is …
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€4,500 to Save the Family Dog: Would You Pay It or Say Goodbye?
In this episode, Niall takes calls from listeners about a heartbreaking family dilemma involving an 11-year-old dog named Milo, whose life is hanging in the balance.
A listener has contacted the show to explain that her beloved family dog has been diagnosed with tumours and needs an operation costing more than €4,500. But there's a catch. The vet has warned that Milo has only a 50/50 chance of recovery, and even if the surgery is successful, the tumours could return.
The woman is devastated and says she's prepared to borrow the money from the credit union to give Milo one last chance. After all, he's been part of the family for 11 years, and she believes you can't put a price on the life of a pet you love.
But her husband completely disagrees. He believes spending €4,500 on an elderly dog with such uncertain prospects is financially irresponsible. He thinks putting Milo to sleep might be the kinder option, particularly if he's suffering. He also argues that the money could be better spent on family bills or even a holiday next summer.
His wife is furious and believes his attitude shows a complete lack of compassion. He insists he's simply being realistic and putting the family's financial future first.
So who's right? Is the husband being heartless, or is the wife allowing her emotions to cloud her judgement?
Niall asks callers what they would do in this situation. Would you borrow €4,500 to give an elderly dog a 50/50 chance of survival, or would you accept that sometimes the kindest thing you can do for an animal you love is to let it go?
And perhaps the most difficult question of all: When does spending money to save a beloved pet become financially irresponsible, and should a family's financial security come before the life of an animal?
Niall opens the phone lines to hear your opinions, personal experiences and advice for this family facing an
#937 David Walliams: Should Alleged Sex Offenders Remain Anonymous? (Guest Harvey Proctor)
Should People Accused of Sexual Offences Remain Anonymous?In this episode, Niall speaks to former UK Conservative MP Harvey Proctor, a man who knows firsthand the devastating consequences of false allegations …
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Should People Accused of Sexual Offences Remain Anonymous?
In this episode, Niall speaks to former UK Conservative MP Harvey Proctor, a man who knows firsthand the devastating consequences of false allegations. Harvey has twice found himself at the centre of serious allegations which he maintains were false, with both experiences having a profound impact on his reputation, career and personal life.
The discussion follows the controversy surrounding comedian and author David Walliams, who has been publicly named after losing a High Court battle to prevent the publication of allegations of sexual misconduct, including claims involving girls as young as 15. Walliams strongly denies the allegations and insists he has broken no law.
But should someone's reputation and livelihood be put at risk before they have even been charged with a crime, never mind convicted?
Supporters of publicly naming suspects argue that publicity can encourage other potential victims to come forward, helping police establish whether there is a wider pattern of offending. Critics argue that once an accusation becomes public, the damage can be irreversible, even if the person is subsequently cleared.
Drawing on Harvey Proctor's personal experiences, Niall explores the devastating impact of false accusations, the presumption of innocence, the rights of alleged victims and the responsibilities of the police and media.
Should anyone accused of a sexual offence be entitled to anonymity until proven guilty, or does protecting potential victims and the wider public justify naming suspects before a trial?
#938 OnlyFans: Is Porn Becoming a Career Choice For Young People?
OnlyFans: Would You Sell Your Body for Money?In this episode, Niall is joined by sex coach and expert Claity Mills to discuss a new survey revealing that 18.1% of young Brits would consider uploading content to …
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OnlyFans: Would You Sell Your Body for Money?
In this episode, Niall is joined by sex coach and expert Claity Mills to discuss a new survey revealing that 18.1% of young Brits would consider uploading content to adult subscription platform OnlyFans to make money.
That's almost one in five young people who would consider turning their bodies and sexuality into a source of income. But what does this say about changing attitudes towards sex, privacy, relationships and money?
For some, OnlyFans represents empowerment, financial independence and the freedom to take control of their own bodies. For others, it raises troubling questions about the normalisation of pornography, the sexualisation of young people and the long-term consequences of sharing intimate content online.
Niall and Claity explore whether social media, celebrity culture and the promise of easy money are encouraging a generation to view sexual content as just another career opportunity. They also discuss the potential impact on future relationships, self-esteem and employment, and whether people truly appreciate that once intimate content is online, it may never completely disappear.
Are we witnessing a worrying shift in society's attitudes towards sex and self-respect, or are older generations simply being judgemental about a new way of making money?
And perhaps the most uncomfortable question of all: How would you feel if your own son, daughter or partner decided to make money on OnlyFans?
#935 Russell Brand: Standing By the Unforgivable & Conspiracy Theories
In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist and commentator Laura Perrins to discuss a deeply divisive question about family loyalty, unconditional love and forgiveness.Russell Brand has been sentenced to 10 …
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In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist and commentator Laura Perrins to discuss a deeply divisive question about family loyalty, unconditional love and forgiveness.
Russell Brand has been sentenced to 10 and a half years in prison after being convicted of rape and three sexual assaults. Despite the guilty verdict, his wife and father continue to stand by him, with his father even suggesting that Russell is the real victim.
But how far should family loyalty go? If your husband or son was convicted of rape, could you still love and support him, or would his actions destroy your relationship forever?
Niall and Laura explore whether a parent's love should truly be unconditional, whether standing by a convicted criminal means excusing their actions, and whether forgiveness is possible even for the most terrible crimes.
Is there a difference between loving someone and defending what they've done? And should there ever be a crime so serious that even your own family turns its back on you?
A thought-provoking discussion about the limits of family loyalty and whether blood really is thicker than water.
#936 She's 18, Pregnant and No Longer Welcome!
In this episode, Niall speaks to callers about a family dilemma that has divided one household and raises difficult questions about parenting, responsibility and unconditional love.An 18-year-old girl has told …
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In this episode, Niall speaks to callers about a family dilemma that has divided one household and raises difficult questions about parenting, responsibility and unconditional love.
An 18-year-old girl has told her parents that she's four months pregnant by her 20-year-old boyfriend, but her mother's reaction has sparked a major family row.
With two other children already living at home, the mother says she simply cannot cope with another baby under her roof. She has told her daughter that if she's old enough to become a mother, she's old enough to take responsibility, move out and find a home with her boyfriend before the baby arrives.
But her husband is furious. He believes his wife is being heartless and argues that their daughter needs love, guidance and support now more than ever. He wants to welcome their future grandchild into the family home.
The mother, however, refuses to back down.
Is she teaching her daughter a valuable lesson about personal responsibility, or abandoning her at a time when she needs her parents most?
Niall asks whether parents have a moral obligation to support their adult children regardless of the circumstances, or whether there comes a point when young adults must face the consequences of their decisions.
If your 18-year-old daughter came home pregnant, would you open your doors to her and the baby, or tell her it's time to stand on her own two feet?
Callers share their experiences and opinions in what promises to be a passionate debate about tough love, family obligations and where parental responsibility ends.
#934 Pay Secrecy Is Ending! Will All Hell Break Loose at Work?
Should You Have the Right to Know What Your Work Colleagues Are Earning?Imagine you've worked for the same company for 20 years, only to discover that a new employee doing exactly the same job is earning …
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Should You Have the Right to Know What Your Work Colleagues Are Earning?
Imagine you've worked for the same company for 20 years, only to discover that a new employee doing exactly the same job is earning €20,000 more than you. Would you be furious, or is what someone else earns none of your business?
In this episode, Niall talks to callers about new pay transparency laws expected to be introduced in Ireland in 2027, requiring employers to disclose salary ranges in job advertisements.
The new rules are designed to tackle pay inequality, particularly between men and women, but the Government has been criticised for delaying their introduction.
For jobseekers, knowing the salary before applying could be a welcome change. But what happens when existing staff discover that new recruits are being offered more money than they're earning?
And should employees have the right to know what their colleagues are paid, or should salaries remain a private matter between employers and individual staff?
The proposed rules would also allow workers to request average salary information for colleagues doing comparable work, potentially exposing uncomfortable differences in pay.
Could salary transparency finally deliver fairness in the workplace, or will it create jealousy, resentment and conflict between colleagues?
Niall opens the phone lines to hear what listeners think. Would you be happy for everyone in your workplace to know what you earn, and would you want to know what they're getting paid?
#933 Get Off the Dole! Is Simon Harris Right to Target the Unemployed?
Should Long-Term Unemployed People Be Forced to Work or Lose Their Benefits?Tánaiste Simon Harris has sparked controversy after defending his proposal to penalise people who remain unemployed long term, with …
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Should Long-Term Unemployed People Be Forced to Work or Lose Their Benefits?
Tánaiste Simon Harris has sparked controversy after defending his proposal to penalise people who remain unemployed long term, with critics branding his comments “despicable” and “cruel”.
In this episode, Niall speaks to financial expert and social media commentator Karl Deeter about Ireland's welfare system and whether taxpayers should be expected to support people who remain unemployed for years.
Aontú leader Peadar Tóibín claims that more than 6,300 people have been claiming unemployment payments for over a decade. But is it fair that someone can remain on the dole for ten years or more without being required to take a job?
And what about people under 30 with no children or dependants? Should they be expected to accept suitable employment or risk losing their benefits?
Are there genuine barriers preventing people from finding work, or has Ireland created a welfare system that allows some people to choose unemployment as a lifestyle?
Niall and Karl debate where compassion ends and personal responsibility begins, and ask whether it's time to get tougher on those who can work but won't.
#931 No Babies, No Future? Ireland’s Population Time Bomb!
Is Ireland Facing a Population Crisis, and Is Immigration Really the Answer?Ireland’s birth rate has fallen well below the level needed to replace its population, raising serious questions about the country’s …
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Is Ireland Facing a Population Crisis, and Is Immigration Really the Answer?
Ireland’s birth rate has fallen well below the level needed to replace its population, raising serious questions about the country’s economic, social and cultural future.
Following RTÉ’s documentary Ireland’s Population Crash, Niall Boylan is joined by journalist, podcaster and founder of the Iona Institute, David Quinn, to discuss why Irish people are having fewer children and what the long-term consequences could be.
Are young couples choosing not to have children, or have soaring house prices, childcare costs and the cost of living made starting a family increasingly unaffordable?
With an ageing population and fewer young people entering the workforce, some argue that immigration is essential to keep the economy growing, fund pensions and support public services. Others question whether relying on immigration to compensate for falling birth rates is a sustainable solution and what it could mean for Ireland's national identity, culture and future.
Has Ireland become a country where people simply can't afford to have children? Should the Government do more to encourage Irish families to have children rather than relying on immigration? And are we heading towards a demographic crisis that politicians are afraid to confront?
Niall and David explore these questions and more in a thought-provoking discussion about the future of Ireland and the generations to come.
#932 Is It Selfish to Break Up a Happy Family Just Because You're Unhappy?
Should You Stay in an Unhappy Marriage for the Sake of Your Children?Is it better to stay in a loveless marriage for the sake of your children, or walk away and risk breaking up an otherwise happy family?In …
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Should You Stay in an Unhappy Marriage for the Sake of Your Children?
Is it better to stay in a loveless marriage for the sake of your children, or walk away and risk breaking up an otherwise happy family?
In this episode, Niall Boylan speaks to callers about a deeply personal dilemma sent in by a listener who admits she no longer loves her husband.
Married for 18 years with three young children, she says there are no major arguments, no affairs and no abuse. They simply live together more like friends or housemates than husband and wife. In fact, she now believes she should never have married him in the first place.
Her mother has told her to put her own feelings aside and stay with her husband for the sake of their children. But the listener feels life is too short to remain in a relationship without love or passion, and she worries that if she doesn't leave now, she may lose her chance to find happiness with someone else.
But is that selfish? Should her children's happiness and stability come before her own? And is the grass really greener on the other side?
Some believe marriage is a lifelong commitment, particularly when children are involved, and that love changes over time. Others argue that children are better off with two happy, separated parents than growing up in a home where their mother and father are simply going through the motions.
Should she sacrifice her own happiness to keep her family together? Is falling out of love a good enough reason to end an 18-year marriage? Or should she try to rediscover the love she once had before potentially turning five lives upside down?
Niall opens the phone lines to hear what callers think about marriage, commitment, sacrifice and whether staying together for the children is really the right thing to do.
Ho Ho Hold On! Has Christmas Started Far Too Early?
Has Christmas Gone Mad? Are We Celebrating Too Early and Forgetting What It's Really About?**Halloween is barely over, and already the Christmas decorations are up, Santa's grottos are open, and shops are …
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Has Christmas Gone Mad? Are We Celebrating Too Early and Forgetting What It's Really About?**
Halloween is barely over, and already the Christmas decorations are up, Santa's grottos are open, and shops are packed with festive stock. But have we gone completely overboard with Christmas?
In this episode, Niall is joined by podcaster and restaurateur Paul Treyvaud to discuss whether Christmas is starting earlier every year and whether the festive season has become little more than a commercial money-making exercise.
The debate follows an email from a listener who is fed up with seeing Christmas take over the shops almost immediately after Halloween. She believes children are being whipped into a frenzy of excitement far too early, while families are being pressured into spending money they may not have.
She also raises a more sensitive issue. For people who have lost loved ones or experienced a difficult year, the constant Christmas cheer can be a painful reminder of what they're missing.
And what about the traditional Christian meaning of Christmas? Have we replaced a celebration of faith, family and togetherness with an increasingly American-style shopping extravaganza?
But perhaps we're just becoming a nation of Christmas killjoys! After all, what's wrong with a little festive cheer in November? With everything going on in the world, maybe people need something to look forward to.
**Niall and Paul ask: Has Christmas become too commercialised? Should we keep the decorations and Santa locked away until December, or should people stop moaning and let everyone
#929 No God, No Morals? Are Secular Schools Failing Our Children?
Should Religion Be Removed From Irish Schools, Or Is It Part Of Who We Are?**Religion has been at the heart of Irish education for generations, but is it time for that to change?With around 90% of Ireland's …
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Should Religion Be Removed From Irish Schools, Or Is It Part Of Who We Are?**
Religion has been at the heart of Irish education for generations, but is it time for that to change?
With around 90% of Ireland's primary schools still under religious patronage, a Department of Education survey reveals a divided nation. While 60% of parents are happy to send their children to religious schools, 40% would prefer an alternative.
Some argue that religion has no place in publicly funded schools and that faith should be taught at home or in church, not in the classroom. Others believe Ireland's Catholic traditions are an important part of our national identity and that religious education helps instil morals, respect and good values in children.
But does teaching religion make children better people? Should taxpayers be funding schools with a religious ethos? And are parents who don't want religious education being left with little choice?
In this episode, Niall opens the phone lines to listeners for a lively debate about faith, education, parental choice and the future of Ireland's schools.
Should religion be taken out of the classroom altogether, or are we in danger of throwing away an important part of our culture and identity?
#927 Is Ireland Finally Waking Up? The Rise of the Right!
Is Ireland Swinging to the Right? Has the Political Pendulum Finally Turned?Is Ireland witnessing the beginning of a major political shift? After decades of increasingly liberal and progressive politics, are …
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Is Ireland Swinging to the Right? Has the Political Pendulum Finally Turned?
Is Ireland witnessing the beginning of a major political shift? After decades of increasingly liberal and progressive politics, are voters starting to turn towards the right, or is this simply a temporary protest against an unpopular Government?
In this episode, Niall speaks to journalist John McGuirk of The Statement, who believes recent opinion polls reveal something far more significant than falling support for Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael.
According to John, a distinct bloc of right-wing voters, approaching 20% of the electorate, is beginning to emerge in Ireland. With Aontú and Independent Ireland gaining support, he argues that voters frustrated by immigration, crime, political correctness and the direction of the country are finally finding parties willing to represent them.
But is this a genuine conservative movement or simply a collection of disillusioned voters desperate for an alternative?
John believes Fine Gael has missed its opportunity to reclaim the centre-right, arguing that years of socially liberal policies and immigration decisions have driven traditional conservative voters away from the party.
Niall challenges John on whether Ireland is experiencing a lasting political realignment, whether Aontú and Independent Ireland can turn protest votes into genuine political power, and whether the traditional parties have permanently lost touch with a growing section of the electorate.
Could Ireland follow the political trends seen elsewhere in Europe and Britain, where right-wing parties have challenged the political establishment? Or will Ireland's traditional parties continue to dominate, regardless of public dissatisfaction?
And perhaps the biggest question of all: Is the political pendulum finally swinging back towards conservatism, or has Ireland moved so far to the left that there is little hope of returning to the political centre?
Join Niall and John McGuirk for a lively discussion about the changing face of Irish politics, the rise of the right and what it could mean for the country's political future.
#928 Are We Raising Teenage Girls or High-Maintenance Divas?
Are Teenage Girls More Spoiled Than Ever, or Have Parents Only Themselves to Blame?Are today's teenagers becoming increasingly spoiled, demanding and expensive to raise? Or are parents and society creating a …
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Are Teenage Girls More Spoiled Than Ever, or Have Parents Only Themselves to Blame?
Are today's teenagers becoming increasingly spoiled, demanding and expensive to raise? Or are parents and society creating a generation of young people who believe looking good comes with an enormous price tag?
In this episode, Niall speaks to journalist Laura Perrins about the growing cost of raising teenage girls and whether parents have forgotten how to say one very simple word: NO!
Laura recently joked:
"Although your teenage daughter is unlikely to be a gym obsessive who consumes a dozen eggs a day, she will steal your clothes, borrow your make-up and make you buy lots of overpriced hair products."
But behind the humour lies a serious question. Have teenage girls become obsessed with appearance, beauty products and expensive brands, and are parents encouraging it by constantly giving in?
From designer clothes and expensive trainers to fake nails, hair extensions, make-up, skincare products and perfumes, the demands can seem never-ending. And with social media influencers constantly promoting the latest beauty trends, are young girls being pressured to look perfect before they've even left school?
But is it really fair to blame teenagers? After all, aren't they simply responding to a society that constantly tells young women their appearance matters more than almost anything else?
Niall asks Laura whether parents are raising a generation of entitled teenagers, or whether mums and dads need to take responsibility for the expectations they've created.
And what about 40 years ago? Teenagers have always cared about fashion, hairstyles and fitting in, but were things really this expensive and demanding when today's parents were growing up?
Are teenage boys just as costly in different ways, or do girls face greater pressure to spend money on their appearance?
So who's really to blame: spoiled teenagers, soft parents or a society obsessed with image and beauty?
Join Niall and Laura Perrins for an entertaining, honest and thought-provoking discussion about parenting, teenage expectations, social media and whether today's young people have simply forgotten the value of money.
#925 Kirk Loco Breaks His Silence: The Truth Behind His Arrest and Court Battle!
Is Free Speech Under Attack in Ireland? Kirk Loco Breaks His Silence After Court VictoryIs freedom of speech becoming a thing of the past in Ireland? Are ordinary people increasingly afraid to speak their minds …
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Is Free Speech Under Attack in Ireland? Kirk Loco Breaks His Silence After Court Victory
Is freedom of speech becoming a thing of the past in Ireland? Are ordinary people increasingly afraid to speak their minds for fear of being prosecuted, publicly vilified or having their lives destroyed?
In this episode, Niall Boylan is joined by campaigner Kirk Loco, who has been cleared of a criminal charge arising from a social media post in which he claimed an asylum seeker had exposed himself to a teenage girl on a bus.
But while Kirk has walked away from court cleared of the charge, he says the personal consequences have been devastating.
Speaking in court, Kirk described the enormous toll the ordeal had taken on his mental health, his marriage, his family relationships and his friendships. He revealed that he had attempted to take his own life following what he described as two years of persecution by political opponents, including graffiti near his home branding him "racist scum".
In an extraordinary twist, Elon Musk's social media platform X funded Kirk's legal defence, describing its involvement as part of its commitment to protecting freedom of expression.
Niall speaks directly to Kirk about his arrest, the investigation, his experience of the justice system, the devastating personal consequences and his reaction to finally being cleared.
But this case raises a much bigger question: Is free speech genuinely protected in Ireland, or are people being intimidated into silence?
Has the law become a weapon to silence controversial opinions? Is there a growing culture of censorship and self-censorship? And regardless of whether you agree with Kirk's political views, should anyone face such consequences for expressing themselves online?
A revealing and deeply personal conversation about freedom of expression, the justice system and the price of speaking your mind in modern Ireland.
#926 Aontú Surges as Fianna Fáil Sinks! Peadar Tóibín on Ireland's Political Future!
Peadar Tóibín on the Collapse in Government Support and the Rise of AontúIs the Irish Government losing the confidence of the people? And if a general election were called tomorrow, would it bring real …
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Peadar Tóibín on the Collapse in Government Support and the Rise of Aontú
Is the Irish Government losing the confidence of the people? And if a general election were called tomorrow, would it bring real political change or simply deliver more of the same?
In this episode, Niall Boylan is joined by Peadar Tóibín TD, leader of Aontú, to discuss the latest opinion poll showing a significant decline in support for the Government and growing momentum for smaller political parties.
The latest figures put Fianna Fáil on just 16%, down two points in a month, while Aontú has climbed to 9% and Independent Ireland to 7%. Combined, the two smaller parties now command the same level of support as Fianna Fáil, raising questions about whether Ireland's traditional political establishment is beginning to lose its grip on voters.
Meanwhile, Tánaiste Simon Harris has seen his personal approval rating fall to a record low of 30%, a dramatic decline from 45% in early 2025.
With public frustration mounting over housing, immigration, the cost of living and the direction of the country, is it time for the Government to face the electorate?
Niall challenges Peadar Tóibín on whether Aontú can turn growing support in the polls into actual Dáil seats, whether his party would consider entering government with Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael, and what Aontú would genuinely do differently if given the opportunity.
But there's a bigger question: Would another general election actually change anything?
Could voters simply return another Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael coalition, or would a Sinn Féin-led alternative involving the Social Democrats, Labour and other left-wing parties offer a different direction? And where would Aontú and Independent Ireland fit into that political landscape?
Are voters genuinely ready to abandon the established parties, or will dissatisfaction once again fail to translate into real change at the ballot box?
Niall and Peadar discuss the future of Irish politics, the growing appeal of alternative parties and whether Ireland is heading towards a political shake-up.
#923 Are We Witnessing The Biggest Demographic Change In Irish History?
Ireland is facing a population crisis as birth rates continue to fall, raising serious questions about the country's economic future, ageing population and who will support the next generation of …
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Ireland is facing a population crisis as birth rates continue to fall, raising serious questions about the country's economic future, ageing population and who will support the next generation of pensioners.
RTÉ’s new documentary series Ireland’s Population Crash, presented by Miriam O’Callaghan, explores why Irish people are having fewer children and what the consequences could be. Miriam, herself a mother of eight, admits she once worried about overpopulation but now believes she has more than done her bit!
In this episode, Niall is joined by economist and financial commentator Karl Deeter to discuss whether Ireland is heading towards a demographic disaster.
With birth rates well below replacement level, the Government sees immigration as part of the solution. But is relying on immigration a sustainable long-term strategy? What happens if some new arrivals require significant State support rather than immediately contributing more in taxes than they receive in services? And are high housing costs, childcare expenses and the cost of living making it increasingly difficult for Irish couples to afford children?
Niall and Karl examine the economic realities behind Ireland’s declining birth rate, the pressures on pensions, healthcare and social housing, and whether successive governments have failed to make raising a family affordable.
Is immigration the answer to Ireland’s population crash, or should the Government be doing far more to encourage people already living here to have children? And who will pay the bills when Ireland grows old?
A thought-provoking discussion about Ireland’s demographic future and the difficult decisions facing the country.
#924 Six Figure Salaries, Seven Figure Budgets And Still No Plan For RTÉ!
RTÉ Wants The Public To Come Up With Ideas For Its Future. Isn't That What We Pay The Executives For?**RTÉ is asking the Irish public to help shape its future, with research company Ipsos conducting an online …
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RTÉ Wants The Public To Come Up With Ideas For Its Future. Isn't That What We Pay The Executives For?**
RTÉ is asking the Irish public to help shape its future, with research company Ipsos conducting an online survey seeking suggestions on how the national broadcaster can improve its services.
But after years of controversy, financial scandals, declining public confidence and continued questions about how taxpayers' money is spent, is RTÉ now admitting it doesn't know how to fix itself?
In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist and broadcaster Ken Murray to discuss whether RTÉ needs genuine reform or a complete overhaul.
With executives and high-profile presenters earning substantial salaries, Niall asks why the people being paid to run the national broadcaster appear to be turning to the public for fresh ideas. Shouldn't developing a vision for RTÉ's future be part of their job?
Is RTÉ delivering value for money? Has it lost touch with ordinary Irish people? Is there enough political balance and diversity of opinion in its news and current affairs coverage? And should taxpayers continue funding a broadcaster that so many believe needs radical change?
Niall and Ken examine whether RTÉ can regain public trust, whether its management structure needs reform and what a modern public service broadcaster should actually look like.
If you were handed the keys to RTÉ tomorrow, what would you change? Would you cut executive salaries, scrap certain programmes, reform its news coverage, reduce public funding or privatise parts of the organisation?
And perhaps the biggest question of all: If RTÉ's highly paid executives need the public to tell them how to run the broadcaster, what exactly are we paying them for?
A lively discussion about the future of Ireland's national broadcaster and whether RTÉ can ever win back the confidence of the Irish public.
#921 Triple Lock: Is The Government Selling Out Irish Neutrality?
In this episode, Niall Boylan is joined by Independent Councillor Noel Thomas and Dr Cathal Berry, former Independent TD and retired Army officer, to debate one of the most contentious issues surrounding …
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In this episode, Niall Boylan is joined by Independent Councillor Noel Thomas and Dr Cathal Berry, former Independent TD and retired Army officer, to debate one of the most contentious issues surrounding Ireland's foreign policy, the Triple Lock and the Government's plans to reform it.
Under the current system, deploying more than 12 Irish Defence Forces personnel on overseas missions requires approval from the Government, Dáil Éireann and a UN mandate. The Government wants to remove the requirement for UN authorisation, but could this fundamentally change Ireland's traditional policy of military neutrality?
Critics argue that removing the Triple Lock risks undermining Irish neutrality and could open the door to greater military involvement in international conflicts. Supporters insist that the current system gives permanent members of the UN Security Council, including Russia and China, an effective veto over Ireland's participation in certain peacekeeping missions.
But is Ireland genuinely neutral in the first place, or is Irish neutrality more complicated than many people realise?
Niall hears from both guests and invites listeners to have their say. Should Ireland retain the Triple Lock, or is it time to remove the UN approval requirement and give the Irish Government greater freedom to decide where our troops serve?
**If the decision were put to a referendum, how would you vote? Would you retain the Triple Lock or support its removal?
#922 I Love Him To Bits, But I'm Not Washing His Knickers!
In this episode, Niall Boylan takes calls from listeners about a relationship dilemma that raises an interesting question. Can you have a happy, committed relationship without ever living together?A woman who …
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In this episode, Niall Boylan takes calls from listeners about a relationship dilemma that raises an interesting question. Can you have a happy, committed relationship without ever living together?
A woman who has been dating a man for several months says they're both divorced, get on brilliantly and genuinely enjoy each other's company. But there's a problem. He's beginning to hint that they should move in together, and she's not sure she wants that.
Having already been married, she's built a comfortable, independent life and has no desire to go back to cooking, cleaning, doing laundry, organising appointments and effectively becoming a housekeeper for another grown man.
She loves the companionship, the romance and the freedom of having her own space. But is it fair to expect a committed relationship while refusing to share a home?
Niall asks whether women, particularly those who have already raised families and been through divorce, are becoming less willing to sacrifice their independence for a relationship. Or is this woman unfairly assuming that moving in with a man automatically means taking responsibility for looking after him?
Is she protecting her independence, or does she simply want all the benefits of a relationship without the compromises?
And what about the man? Is he entitled to expect that a serious relationship will eventually lead to living together?
Niall hears from callers on both sides of the debate, including those who believe couples are happier living apart and others who argue that sharing a home is an important part of building a future together.
Would you move in with a new partner later in life, or have you reached an age where you simply couldn't be bothered living with someone else?
Is living apart the secret to a happy relationship, or is it just being single with benefits?
#920 When Did Hugging Your Grandchildren Become Controversial?
SHOULD GRANDPARENTS ASK PERMISSION BEFORE HUGGING THEIR GRANDCHILDREN?In this episode, Niall talks to Eddie Punch about the latest government funded campaign, “We Consent,” which has sparked a heated debate …
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SHOULD GRANDPARENTS ASK PERMISSION BEFORE HUGGING THEIR GRANDCHILDREN?
In this episode, Niall talks to Eddie Punch about the latest government funded campaign, “We Consent,” which has sparked a heated debate about affection, personal boundaries and whether we're taking things a little too far.
The advert features grandparents arriving to visit their grandchildren. While their grandson happily welcomes them with a hug, their granddaughter refuses, appearing almost uncomfortable when they reach out to embrace her.
The message? Even grandparents should respect a child's right to say no to a hug.
Some people are applauding the campaign for teaching children about consent and bodily autonomy. Others think it's another example of political correctness gone mad, with one online commentator declaring, “She won't hug her lovely grandparents because she's woke.”
Niall and Eddie ask whether we're turning perfectly innocent displays of family affection into something unnecessarily complicated. Is this an important lesson about children's boundaries, or another questionable use of taxpayers' money?
Should grandparents really have to ask permission to hug their own grandchildren? And have we become so obsessed with consent that we're taking the warmth out of family relationships?
Niall and Eddie debate the issue and ask whether this campaign is money well spent or simply over the top.
#918 Should Taxpayers Continue To Subsidise Well Paid Council Tenants?
ARE SOCIAL HOUSING TENANTS BEING PUNISHED FOR WORKING HARDER AND EARNING MORE?Residents in Leitrim are up in arms over rent increases under a new council scheme, with some arguing that they're being penalised …
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ARE SOCIAL HOUSING TENANTS BEING PUNISHED FOR WORKING HARDER AND EARNING MORE?
Residents in Leitrim are up in arms over rent increases under a new council scheme, with some arguing that they're being penalised simply for working hard and earning a better wage.
In this episode, Niall speaks to Councillor Gavin Pepper and a local Leitrim resident about the protests and the growing anger over how social housing rents are calculated.
The principle sounds fair enough. If you earn more, you pay more. But what happens when working extra hours, getting a pay rise or improving your circumstances means handing over more of your hard-earned money in rent? Are we creating a system that actually discourages people from getting ahead?
On the other hand, why shouldn't social housing tenants who earn a decent income contribute more towards their homes, particularly when private renters are paying enormous rents with little or no support?
Is this a fair system based on people's ability to pay, or another example of people being punished for working hard?
Niall asks whether councils have got the balance right, or whether these rent increases are simply going too far.
Have your say!
#919 10 Years Without A Pay Rise! Is His Boss Taking The Piss?
Imagine working for the same company for over ten years without a single pay rise, while the cost of living keeps going up and your wages stay exactly the same!In this episode, Niall talks to callers about a …
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Imagine working for the same company for over ten years without a single pay rise, while the cost of living keeps going up and your wages stay exactly the same!
In this episode, Niall talks to callers about a listener's dilemma involving her husband, a man in his 50s who feels trapped in a job where he's overworked, underpaid and too frightened to ask his boss for more money.
He earns almost €50,000 a year, but he's the sole breadwinner supporting his wife and young children. With childcare costs so high, it simply doesn't make financial sense for his wife to return to work.
His boss has a reputation for being ruthless, and he's terrified that asking for a pay rise could cost him his job. To make matters worse, his skills are no longer in great demand, and he fears finding another job at his age could be extremely difficult.
He's miserable, stressed and feels completely taken advantage of. But is he allowing fear to dictate his future?
Should he stand up to his boss and demand a pay rise after ten years, or is €50,000 a decent salary that he should be grateful for?
And are some employers taking advantage of older workers who are too frightened to rock the boat?
Niall asks callers whether loyalty to an employer is worth anything anymore, if workers should be more assertive about their wages and whether sometimes it's better to put up with a bad boss than risk losing everything.
Have you ever been afraid to ask for a pay rise? Are you underpaid and overworked, or should employees stop complaining and be grateful they have a job?
#916 Empty Cycle Lanes, Furious Drivers and Dodgy Drinking Decisions
Are Ireland’s Cycle Lanes a Waste of Money, and Could Pub Breathalysers Encourage More Drinking?Are taxpayers being taken for a ride with Ireland’s growing network of cycle lanes? And could a new road safety …
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Are Ireland’s Cycle Lanes a Waste of Money, and Could Pub Breathalysers Encourage More Drinking?
Are taxpayers being taken for a ride with Ireland’s growing network of cycle lanes? And could a new road safety initiative actually encourage people to drink more?
In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist Laura Perrins to discuss the millions being spent on cycle lanes across Ireland. Are some of these lanes unnecessary, causing traffic chaos, frustrating motorists and leaving perfectly good roads reduced to bottlenecks? Or are they a worthwhile investment that makes our roads safer and encourages more people to get on their bikes?
PLUS: Breathalysers in pubs and hotels!
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is proposing breathalyser terminals in pubs and hotels, allowing customers to check their alcohol levels before deciding whether to drive.
It sounds sensible, but could it backfire? The Social Democrats have raised concerns that customers who discover they're under the legal limit might decide to have another pint!
Would breathalysers help save lives, or could they give drinkers a false sense of security and encourage them to push their luck?
Niall and Laura tackle both controversial issues, and listeners have their say on whether we're spending taxpayers' money wisely and whether breathalysers belong in our pubs.
#917 No Bangers, No Bonfires, No Bloody Fun!
Halloween Spoilsports! Are Politicians Taking All the Fun Out of Halloween?Are Ireland's politicians turning into the Halloween fun police? Or have bonfires and fireworks become too dangerous to ignore?In this …
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Halloween Spoilsports! Are Politicians Taking All the Fun Out of Halloween?
Are Ireland's politicians turning into the Halloween fun police? Or have bonfires and fireworks become too dangerous to ignore?
In this episode, Niall talks to callers about growing calls for a crackdown on traditional Halloween celebrations.
Fine Gael TD Naoise Ó Múirí has called for a zero tolerance approach to fireworks this Halloween, while councils are confiscating wood that teenagers have been collecting for bonfires.
But has Ireland become a nation of spoilsports?
For generations, Halloween meant gathering wood for weeks, building enormous bonfires, letting off a few bangers and enjoying a bit of harmless mischief. Nobody needed a risk assessment or a health and safety officer standing beside the bonfire!
But times have changed. Dangerous fireworks, massive bonfires, antisocial behaviour and attacks on emergency services have raised serious concerns about public safety.
So where do we draw the line between protecting people and taking all the fun out of Halloween?
Are politicians right to clamp down, or are we wrapping the next generation in cotton wool and robbing them of the childhood traditions we all enjoyed?
Niall hears from callers on both sides, including those who remember the excitement of Halloween years ago and others who believe stricter enforcement is long overdue.
Should Ireland adopt zero tolerance for fireworks and bonfires, or should we stop being such killjoys and let people enjoy Halloween?
#914 France Is Burning and Should Offensive Opinions Land You in Prison? With John MGuirk
In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist John McGuirk to discuss the violent riots sweeping across France, where widespread protests have descended into scenes of looting, destruction and clashes with …
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In this episode, Niall is joined by journalist John McGuirk to discuss the violent riots sweeping across France, where widespread protests have descended into scenes of looting, destruction and clashes with police. Has President Emmanuel Macron lost control, and what is fuelling the growing anger on the streets of France?
The conversation then turns to a controversial Irish court case that raises serious questions about the limits of free speech.
Graham Carey, a 42-year-old Dublin man, has been jailed for two years for incitement to hatred after posting a video in which he linked refugees to rapists and threatened to throw their corpses into the sea.
But regardless of what you think of Carey's comments, should people be sent to prison for what they say? Does this conviction set a worrying precedent for freedom of expression in Ireland, or was this a clear case of crossing the line from expressing an opinion into inciting hatred?
Niall asks John McGuirk whether he agrees with the sentence and explores the difficult question of where free speech ends and criminal incitement begins.
Should even the most offensive and hateful opinions be protected by free speech, or are there circumstances where words alone should land someone behind bars?
#915 Online Dating: Looking for Love or Just Looking for a Ride?
Swipe Right for Love or Just a Bit of Fun? Is Online Dating a Waste of Time?Whatever happened to meeting someone in the pub, chatting them up at a party or catching someone's eye across a crowded room? Back in …
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Swipe Right for Love or Just a Bit of Fun? Is Online Dating a Waste of Time?
Whatever happened to meeting someone in the pub, chatting them up at a party or catching someone's eye across a crowded room? Back in the day, finding love involved a bit of courage, a few awkward conversations and maybe a few pints to build up the confidence!
These days, romance is just a swipe away. But is that necessarily a good thing?
In this episode, Niall talks to callers about the world of online dating, where a flattering profile picture, a clever bio and a bit of creative photography can be the difference between finding your soulmate and being left on the virtual shelf!
Are dating apps genuinely helping people find lasting love, or have they become glorified hookup services where everyone is constantly looking for someone younger, better looking or more exciting?
And what about the dreaded first date, when the six-foot fitness fanatic you've been chatting to turns out to be five-foot-six with a beer belly and a photograph from 2009?
Can you really build a meaningful connection with someone you've never met, or have dating apps turned romance into online shopping, where there's always another option just one swipe away?
Niall hears from listeners who found true love online, others who've experienced absolute dating disasters and those who reckon nothing beats the old-fashioned approach of meeting someone face to face.
Is online dating the future of romance, or has swiping left and right killed the magic of falling in love?
#913 My Husband Became a Woman and I Became a Trans Widow
I Married a Man, Then He Left Me to Become a Woman: The Story of a Trans Widow**In this powerful and emotional episode, Niall Boylan speaks to Tracey Shannon, a woman who describes herself as a "trans widow" …
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I Married a Man, Then He Left Me to Become a Woman: The Story of a Trans Widow**
In this powerful and emotional episode, Niall Boylan speaks to Tracey Shannon, a woman who describes herself as a "trans widow" after the devastating breakdown of her marriage.
Tracey was happily married to the man she loved, and together they were raising their young children. She believed they had a happy marriage and a future together. But everything changed when her husband began dressing as a woman. What initially seemed like occasional cross-dressing eventually developed into his desire to live permanently as a woman.
Ultimately, he left Tracey and their marriage behind to begin a new life as a woman, leaving her to pick up the pieces, raise their children and come to terms with losing the husband she thought she knew.
Tracey speaks openly about the heartbreak, confusion, betrayal and emotional turmoil she experienced, and what she believes is often overlooked in conversations about gender transition: the wives, partners and children whose lives are turned upside down.
While society increasingly celebrates people embracing their gender identity, Tracey asks a difficult question: What about the families left behind, and who is listening to their stories?
An emotional, honest and thought-provoking conversation about marriage, identity, personal freedom and the sometimes devastating consequences for those closest to us.
#911 Should We Shut Ireland Down for 24 Hours to Make the Government Listen?
Yesterday’s national public sector strike brought widespread disruption, with thousands of workers walking off the job in one of the biggest industrial actions in decades. But while some praised the workers for …
Shownotes
Yesterday’s national public sector strike brought widespread disruption, with thousands of workers walking off the job in one of the biggest industrial actions in decades. But while some praised the workers for standing up for better pay and conditions, others accused them of greed and holding the public to ransom.
In this episode, Niall speaks to protest fuel organiser and agricultural representative John Dallon, as well as election candidate Eddie Punch, about the strike, the growing frustration over the cost of living and whether ordinary workers have finally had enough.
With household bills soaring, wages struggling to keep pace and many families feeling financially squeezed, is it time for something much bigger?
Would you support a full national strike involving both public and private sector workers, effectively shutting down the entire country for 24 hours?
Could such drastic action finally force the Government to listen and deliver meaningful change? Or would it simply punish ordinary people, cost businesses millions, disrupt essential services and put vulnerable people at risk?
Niall, John and Eddie examine the arguments for and against nationwide industrial action, the pressures facing workers, farmers and businesses, and whether a national shutdown could achieve meaningful change or ultimately do more harm than good.
Is a national shutdown exactly what Ireland needs, or has the right to strike gone too far?
#912 25 Years Married and a Listener Caught With His Pants Down Online!
25 Years Married and She Catches Him Sex Chatting With Other Women! Is It Cheating?**In this episode, Niall speaks to callers about a marriage in crisis after a listener makes a devastating discovery about her …
Shownotes
25 Years Married and She Catches Him Sex Chatting With Other Women! Is It Cheating?**
In this episode, Niall speaks to callers about a marriage in crisis after a listener makes a devastating discovery about her husband of 25 years.
At 1am, she finds him fast asleep at his laptop with sexually explicit conversations with other women still open on the screen. She's horrified, heartbroken and feels completely betrayed.
But her husband insists he hasn't cheated. He claims he's been lonely, misses intimacy and has been using online sex chats to satisfy needs that haven't been met in their marriage for some time. He argues that because he's never physically touched another woman, he hasn't actually been unfaithful.
His wife admits her sex drive has been low for years and their marriage has lacked physical intimacy. She even wonders whether she's partly to blame for pushing him towards other women online.
Her sister, however, has absolutely no sympathy for him. She says he's a cheat, has betrayed his wife's trust and should be shown the door.
But is it really that simple?
Is sexually explicit chatting with strangers online just harmless fantasy, or is it every bit as much cheating as having a physical affair?
Should this woman throw away 25 years of marriage over conversations on a computer screen? Does a lack of intimacy explain his behaviour, or is he simply making excuses for betraying his wife?
And here's another question. If your partner stopped wanting sex, would you consider online sexual conversations with other people an acceptable alternative?
Niall hears some very different opinions from callers as they debate fidelity, loneliness, sexual frustration, trust and whether a marriage can survive this kind of betrayal.
**Would YOU forgive your husband or wife, or would catching them sex chatting with strangers be the end of your marriage?
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