Highlights From Newstalk Breakfast

The Minister for Education has been asked to consider introducing a mandatory three-week Gaeltacht course for every Leaving Certificate student studying Irish. To discuss this Ciara was joined by Julian de Spainn, Ard Runai Conradh na Gaeilge. 

The EU is drawing up a list of possible tariffs and export controls on US services, in case trade talks with Washington break down. Two officials close to the negotiations say the measures are being prepared by the European Commission in response to US President Donald Trump’s tariffs, but still need approval from EU member states.  Speaking to Ciara this morning was Olof Gill, European Commission Spokesperson for Trade.

Newstalk's political correspondent Sean Defoe is handing out his Dáil star awards as politicians get ready for their summer holidays. From the newcomer of the year to the biggest political cowardice moment, Sean has all the prizes. 

You might know Chris Tarrant, broadcaster and former host of Who Wants to Be A Millionaire, best for asking contestants whether they want to phone a friend. But now he’s released a book about one of his greatest passions bears called 'For The Love Of Bears'. We phoned our friend Chris and chatted about his book and more.

he number of households behind on their energy bills has soared by 86,000 up to April this year, reaching a total of 286,000 households. That’s according to figures obtained by the Irish Independent and we discuss them further with Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor for the Irish Independent.

Are we going to see any easing of cost of living crises for people? Ciara asked Minister for Finance, Paschal Donohoe this morning.

Should national anthem be on the school curriculum? Shane and Ciara discussed this on the show.

Airport Dad’s are the unsung heroes of holiday travel according to freelance Journalist Niamh O’Reilly who explained why she thinks so.

Sinn Féin spokesperson for Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht, Conor D McGuinness TD, has slammed the Government’s failure to include Amhrán na bhFiann anywhere in the national curriculum . Conor discuss further with Shane.

It’s time for Gardaí to tackle drinking at Grand Canal Lock, so said councillors at the most recent South East Area Committee meeting this week.  Labour Councilor for Pembroke and Former Lord Mayor, Dermot Lacey  explained why.

Social Justice Ireland says Budget 2026 must boost core social welfare payments by €25 a week to close growing income gaps and meet the Government’s promise of progressive budgeting Shane discussed further with Susanne Rogers Research and Policy Analyst at Social Justice Ireland. 

An Post could be forced to change the frequency or speed of postal deliveries due to costs and changing consumer habits. Communications Minister Patrick O’Donovan told Cabinet yesterday that profits at the mail service were up, but there has been a decline in overall post numbers.We discussed further with David McRedmond, CEO of An Post.

Early Childhood Ireland is calling on the Government to bring Early Years and School Age Care graduates within public sector pay and conditions, in line with teachers. We discussed further with Frances Byrne, Director of Policy at Early Childhood Ireland. 

We’ve all been at a party with our partner, silently wondering: “I hope they’re having as much fun as I am”.  Journalist and Columnist, Anniki Sommerville decided to ditch setting her husband up with new friends just let it be.  

A Cork City Councillor has claimed Ireland is becoming “a cold place for Catholics and Christians” after Cork city councillors voted to consider a renaming process for Bishop Lucey Park. Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast this morning was Terry Shannon, Fianna Fáil Cllr for Cork City council and South–East area.

The European Commission is set to propose merging Common Agricultural Policy funding with other funds, in a radical overhaul of how farmers receive financial supports from the European Union budget. We get reaction from Francie Gorman President of Irish Farmers Association and Vice President of COPA  European Farmers Organisation. 

What sort of person do you want to represent Ireland? Shane and Ciara discussed this morning.

The Climate Change Advisory Council has said that urgent action and strengthened policy levers are required to incentivise increased tree planting to ensure Ireland’s forestry sector does not become a source of greenhouse gas emissions. We heard from their Chair Marie Donnelly.

A 9.8% rise in non-domestic water charges is coming this October, raising concerns across the business community. One of those concerned is Michael Magner, National President of the Irish Hotels Federation who explained why to Ciara.

The 2025 Emmy nominations will be announced later this evening, so who deserves to get the nomination? All to chat with Scott Bryan, TV Critic and Broadcaster.