The Last Word with Matt Cooper
Episodes
Injury Doubt for Irish World Cup Squad
14 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Women's World Cup is just around the corner and with a feisty match against Columbia behind closed doors, what's the outlook like for the team and...
No Smartphone Policy For Primary Pupils Could Be Extended To All Schools, Education Minister Says
13 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Minister for Education Norma Foley is interested in extending nationwide the idea of a no smartphone policy for primary school pupils. Rachel Harper,...
Heatwaves Return To Europe
13 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
More extreme heatwaves are set to hit Europe in the coming weeks, with the highest ever ground temperatures recorded in Spain yesterday. Kevin Murphy...
RTÉ To Ask Ryan Tubridy To Pay Back €150,000 From Outstanding Renault Events
13 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Director General Kevin Bakhurst has said RTÉ will ask Ryan Tubridy to pay back €150,000 from outstanding commitments. Louise Burne, Political Cor...
How To Use Your Tech To Save Money
13 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We could all do with saving a little more money! Could investing in technology help you out with your savings? Andy O’Donoghue joined The Last Wor...
Culture Club: Ed Smith
12 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TodayFM's Ed Smith joined us for The Culture Club this week! He spoke to Matt about music, films, comedy and more. Catch the full chat by pressing t...
Taoiseach Claims People In Emergency Accommodation Are Refusing "Multiple Offers" For Social Housing
12 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
At a press conference given yesterday by the Government in relation to Housing For All, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar claimed multiple offers for social hous...
Half Of Us Can't Afford Health Insurance And Pensions
12 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A survey done by Aviva has found more than half of people can't afford health insurance and/or a pension. Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor wi...
Children's Hospital Has Only Completed 27 Rooms Out Of 3,000 Target
12 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Only 27 rooms out of a projected 3,000 have been completed for the new National Children's Hospital, with building costs to potentially increase to ov...
'Fog Of Confusion' Over RTÉ Payments, Committee Told
11 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
As relevant figures continue to appear in front of the Oireachtas committees over the RTÉ scandal, Ryan Tubridy has apologised for what he calls a 'f...
RTÉ Director-General Kevin Bakhurst On Ryan Tubridy's Future At RTÉ
11 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Newly appointed Director General of RTÉ, Kevin Bakhurst joined The Last Word to discuss the process of re-establishing trust in the broadcaster. Cat...
Has Ryan Tubridy Managed To 'Put The Feather Back In The Pillow?'
11 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What does Ryan Tubridy's future at RTÉ look like after the last few weeks? Mick Clifford, Special Correspondent with The Irish Examiner, and Lorcan ...
Tubridy Raises '7 Untruths' & Says Name Is 'Sullied'
11 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Ryan Tubridy and agent Noel Kelly made statements today in front of the Oireachtas committees, placing the blame for the payments scandal squarely at ...
Kevin Bakhurst Stands Down RTÉ Executive Board
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
New RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst has announced the Executive Committee of the RTÉ board are to be stood down as part of a number of new chang...
Burning Of Leo Varadkar Image In Northern Ireland To Be Investigated As Hate Crime
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A hate crime investigation has been launched into Leo Varadkar's image being placed on a bonfire in Northern Ireland. Journalist Amanda Ferguson join...
Complaints About Taxi Drivers Increase To Record Levels Following Introduction Of Cashless Fare
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
According to the NTA's annual review, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of complaints about taxi drivers with relation to providing cas...
City Breaks For Families
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What are the best options this year for a family city break? Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie joined The Last Word to discuss. Catch the full...
All Ireland Semi-Final Preview
07 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Seamus Hickey, Jamesie O’Connor, and John McIntyre joined The Last Word to give their predictions for this weekend's hurling All-Ireland semi-final ...
Dublin Hotel Room Rates Hit Record High In May
07 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It has been calculated that in May this year, Dublin hotel room rates hit their highest prices ever. Lorcan Allen, Business Editor with The Business ...
Fall Out From A Week Of Revelations At RTÉ
07 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Taylor Swift madness, farewell to the Fiesta, and a round up of this week's RTÉ scandal. Ben Finnegan, News Anchor with Today FM and Sarah McGuinnes...
Some Learner-Drivers Using L-Plates For 30 Years
06 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Due to a loophole in the NDLS system, some drivers have been using a learner permit for the last 30 years. Shane O’ Donoghue, Road Test editor with...
Keir Starmer Tells Just Stop Oil To "Just Stop"
06 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Leader of the Labour Party, Keir Starmer has accused the Just Stop Oil campaign of causing "massive disruption" and displaying "huge arrogance". John...
The Best Phones On Offer For Every Budget
06 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Looking for a new phone? Andy O’Donoghue joined The Last Word with a guide to the best phones available for every budget! Catch the full chat by pr...
New RTÉ DG Vows To Restore Trust
06 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
RTÉ's incoming Director General Kevin Bakhurst has said he plans to restore public trust in the national broadcaster following its controversy which ...
Ryan Tubridy and Noel Kelly to Appear Before Oireachtas Committee
05 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In a statement issued on behalf of Ryan Tubridy and his agent Noel Kelly, the pair wish to voluntarily appear before the Oireachtas next week. Lorcan...
Two More RTÉ Barter Accounts Have Been Revealed
05 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Another day with RTÉ in the headlines, and today it's been revealed that there weren't just one but three barter accounts held by RTÉ. Daniel McCon...
Over 100 New Buses Lying Idle
05 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Over 100 new electric buses are lying idle until at least the end of the year as there are no charging facilities for them. Tom O’Connor, Assistant...
US Multinationals Want To Hire More Irish Workers
04 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
70% of US multinational companies with operations in Ireland have said they plan to increase Irish employment over the next 12 months. Lorcan Allen, ...
Supreme Court Backs Web Designer Opposed To Same Sex Marriage
04 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Supreme Court has ruled in favour of a web designer in Colorado who refused to design wedding websites for same-sex couples. Cal Thomas, Nationa...
Increase Of 6.1% On Spending In Summer Economic Statement
04 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Budget 2024 will have a value of €6.4 billion, €5.3 billion of which will be used to deliver new measures with regard to expenditure. Minister f...
Skin Cancer: “Never Ignore A Mole Bigger Than A Shirt Button”
04 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, affecting about 13,000 people each year. What do you need to look out for? Dr. Brian Higgin...
The Latest Travel Deals
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Is it possible to get a good deal on a last minute holiday this July? Sarah Slattery from thetravelexpert.ie says it is! Catch the full chat by press...
Kerry, Monaghan, Derry, And Dublin Advance To Semi-Finals
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
After an action packed quarter-final weekend, what can we expect from the approaching All Ireland semi-finals? Will Kerry and Dublin inevitably face o...
Twitter Limiting Number Of Tweets Users Can Read
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Temporary limits have been put in place on Twitter to minimise 'data scraping' issues. What does this mean? Andy O’Donoghue joined The Last Word to...
Body Recovered From Sliabh Liag
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A man's body has been recovered from the sea near Sliabh Liag after a 10-day search. Gardaí are awaiting postmortem results before launching an inqui...
All Ireland Quarter-Final Preview
30 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Marc O’Se, Conor McCarthy and Michael Foley joined The Last Word to give their predictions for this weekend's All Ireland quarter-final fixtures. C...
Drivers Watching Screens Not Breaking The Law
30 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Gardaí are coming across drivers watching videos and taking facetime calls while on the road, but there is little they can do if a driver is not phys...
RTÉgate Continues
30 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What is next for RTÉ after an excruciating week of controversies? Eoghan Tomas McDermott, Managing Director at the Communications Clinic, and Jour...
The Return Of Indiana Jones
29 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Is the latest installment of Indiana Jones a step too far for the franchise, or has it recaptured the magic? Brian Lloyd, Movies Editor with Entertan...
Why Increased Immigration Would Help Ireland Meet Its Climate Targets
29 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How could Ireland's ever growing population help us reach our climate targets? Dr. Cara Augustenborg, Professor in Environmental Policy at UCD joined...
The Best In Gaming Tech
29 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Are you or someone in your household interested in gaming? Andy O’Donoghue joined The Last Word to discuss the best gaming tech available right now!...
Is Patrick Kielty Worth €250,000 Per Season To Host The Late Late Show
29 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In the interest of transparency in the midst of RTÉ's ongoing pay scandal, Patrick Kielty has revealed he will receive €250,000 per season for host...
State Of Septic Tanks In Ireland “Poses Risk To Humans”
28 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The EPA has put out a report this year looking at the number of inspections carried out on septic tanks across the country. It was found that 20% pose...
Sliabh Liag Closed To The Public As Gardaí Consider Murder Investigation
28 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Sliabh Liag in Donegal remains closed as Gardaí continue their search for a missing person. Stephen Maguire from Donegal Daily joined The Last Word...
RTÉ Board Members Appear Before Oireachtas Committee
28 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Almost a week after the news that RTÉ had underdeclared payments to Ryan Tubridy, several executives and board members have appeared before the Oirea...
Lewis Capaldi Announces Break For Foreseeable Future
27 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Scottish singer Lewis Capaldi has made the decision to take a break from his music career while dealing with the impact of Tourette Syndrome. John Ca...
Trump Heard On Tape Discussing Secret Documents
27 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Donald Trump has been heard on tape openly discussing US military secrets at a golf club. Cal Thomas, Nationally Syndicated Columnist, and Marion McK...
RTÉ Release Detailed Statement As Staff Hold Protest
27 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Daniel McConnell, Editor with The Business Post joined The Last Word to take a look at the details of RTÉ's detailed statement on undisclosed payment...
How To Protect Yourself From Mosquito Borne Diseases In Europe
27 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
With many people heading off on summer holidays over the next few weeks, how can we best protect ourselves from the threat of mosquito borne diseases ...
Mayo To Play Dublin In All Ireland Quarter-Final
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Mayo will face rivals Dublin in a final 8 showdown this Sunday at Croke Park. Ray Silke, Former Galway Footballer, and Martin Carney, Former Donegal...
Thousands Of Irish People Left With Worthless Gift Cards
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A company that issues pre-paid gift cards has had it's electronic money license revoked leaving it unable to financially honour gift cards sold. Lorc...
Dee Forbes Resigns As DG Of RTÉ
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Dee Forbes has resigned as Director General of RTÉ in the midst of the ongoing pay crisis. Kate Shanahan, Journalist and Former Head of Journalism ...
Why Dreamy Cinque Terre Should Be Top Of Your Travel Wish List
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Why not take a trip to the northwest of Italy and see the beautiful Cinque Terre? Sarah Slattery joined The Last Word with all of the details. Catch...
Elon Musk And Mark Zuckerberg To Have Cage Fight
22 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Will two of the world's richest men really go through with a cage fight? Elaine Burke joined The Last Word to discuss. Catch the full chat by press...
Future Trends In Tech
22 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What trends can we expect in the tech industry over the next while? Andy O’Donoghue joined The Last Word to discuss. Catch the full chat by press...
Sea Surface Temperatures In 2023 Highest Ever Recorded
22 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
An intense marine heatwave has risen sea surface temperatures to record heights in recent months. Why is this so alarming? John Gibbons joined The La...
RTÉ Reveals More Than €300,000 In Hidden Payments To Ryan Tubridy
22 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It has been confirmed by RTÉ that Ryan Tubridy was paid over €300,000 more than previously disclosed over a 6 year period. Ian Guider joined The ...
Why Is Dublin City So Filthy, And Is There Anything That Can Be Done About It?
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Is there any way to tackle the massive issue of litter in Dublin City? How will the phasing out of plastic bin bags help? Richard Guiney, CEO of Dubl...
Expert Group Recommends The Abolition Of The Offences Against The State Acts
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Since 1913 Ireland has had a piece of legislation called The Offences Against The State Act. What is it, and does it need to go? Alan Farrell, Fine G...
Discounted Deals For Thousands Of Energy Customers Are Set To Expire
21 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Energy customers may be facing an unexpected increase in their bills due to expiry on discounted deals. Is there any way to soften the blow? Charlie ...
Taylor Swift has Announced New Irish Dates
20 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Taylor Swift is coming to Ireland next year to play at the Aviva Stadium. That and much more on our weekly music slot with John Caddell and Dee Reddy...
Reserved Judgement in Jonathan Dowdall's Sentence Appeal
20 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Jonathan Dowdall appeared in the Court of Appeal today in relation to his sentencing for facilitating the murder of David Byrne at the Regency Hotel i...
What are Heart Palpitations and When Do You Need to Get Checked?
20 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Heart palpitations are usually harmless, but there are times when you should get yourself checked. Dr. Brian Higgins from Galway Primary Care joined ...
Hunter Biden to Plead Guilty to Federal Tax Charge
20 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Hunter Biden has agreed to plead guilty to two misdemeanor tax charges. Cal Thomas nationally syndicated columnist and Marion McKeone, US corresponde...
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Coming To The Aviva
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
American college football team Notre Dame Fighting Irish will play the Navy Midshipmen in the Aviva Stadium in August. Nana Osafo-Mensah, Notre Dame ...
Inside The Mind Of A Double Murderer
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Author Mark O’Connell has written a book called A Thread Of Violence, based on a number of lengthy conversations with infamous killer Malcolm Macart...
President Higgins Wades Into Neutrality Debate
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
President Michael D. Higgins has apologised to Professor Louise Richardson for a "throwaway remark" made while giving his opinion on the Government's ...
The Best Cruise Holidays On Offer This Year
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
From river cruises to island hopping, Sarah Slattery joined The Last Word to discuss the best cruise holiday offers available! Catch the full chat by...
Golf: Reaching The Halfway Point Of The US Open
16 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Lawrence Donegan, Founder & Editor of McKellar Magazine joined The Last Word to give his predictions and a rundown of the US Open as it reaches it's h...
The Week Trending: Dublin's Rogue Bike Shed
16 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A family has been refused permission by An Bord Pleanála to keep a bike shed that was built in their front garden in 2021 over concerns it would be “...
Voters Would Prefer Greater Public Spending Over Tax Cuts According To Irish Times Poll
16 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Today's Irish Times opinion poll has found the public value greater public spending over the prospect of income tax cuts. Pat Leahy, Political Editor...
'Trump Could Be Wearing An Ankle Bracelet When He Accepts The Republican Nomination'
15 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How will Donald Trump's latest indictment affect his 2024 GOP nomination? James Comey, Former Director of the FBI and Author of Central Park West joi...
Everything You Need For A Five-Star Road Trip
15 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Planning a road trip in the sun? From dashcams to portable coffee makers, Andy O’Donoghue has everything you need to make it as enjoyable as possibl...
SUVs In South Dublin Targeted By "Tyre Extinguisher" Climate Action Group
15 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
A number of SUVs in South Dublin have had tyres deflated by climate action group The Tyre Extinguishers. John Gibbons joined The Last Word to discuss...
Why High Food Prices Are Here To Stay
15 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Irish Farmers Journal has released its annual Agribusiness report in association with KPMG, which suggests high food prices are not just a short-t...
Donald Trump Pleads Not Guilty To Charges in Florida
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Donald Trump appeared in court last night in connection with keeping state documents in his home in Florida. He claims he is innocent. Cal Thomas, na...
David Gillick: Why Men Need To Take Better Care Of Their Mental Health
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's Men's Mental Health Week this week. The ambassador for the week is none other than David Gillick, the former Olympic athlete. He joined The Last...
Should Ireland Have an Honours System?
14 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Should Ireland have an honours system where we recognise excellence among citizens by giving them a special suffix after their name? Senator Michael ...
Remembering Christy Dignam
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Legendary Aslan singer Christy Dignam has passed away today at the age of 63 following a long battle with cancer. Dave Hanratty and Dee Reddy joined ...
Once Highly Coveted Tech Jobs Are Becoming Less Popular With Young People
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
According to a new survey, young people's desire to work for tech giants is on the down. Why is this? Samantha McCaughren, Business Editor with the S...
Do We Need Other Pathways To Third Level Education And Training?
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Do we need to develop new pathways for students to reach third-level education outside of the CAO points system? How can we improve upon the already e...
How To Stay Cool In The Heat
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's the hottest day of the year so far, and we should all be taking the proper precautions to stay healthy and cool while enjoying the weather. Dr. ...
Man City Win Champions League At Last
12 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It really is a blue Monday for Man United fans following a historic weekend for Manchester City. Mark Lawrenson and Miguel Delaney joined The Last Wo...
From Bilbao To San Sebastián
12 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Its sun holiday season! Why not take a Spanish road trip? Sarah Slattery joined us with all of the info for The Last Word On Travel! Catch the full ...
AA Calls For Mandatory Helmets For E-Scooter Drivers
12 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Shocking footage of a man whizzing down the M50 on an E-Scooter has led to renewed calls for helmet-wearing to become mandatory for users. Paddy Com...
Is Saudi Arabia’s Partnership With The PGA Tour The Biggest Sportswashing Victory So Far?
09 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
What does the future of sport look like after Saudi Arabia's huge deal with the PGA tour? Gavin Cooney, Sportswriter with The42.ie joined The Last Wo...
Another Bad Week For Prince Harry
09 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It's been another turbulent week for Prince Harry as his court case against the Mirror Group continues. Kieran Cunningham, Chief Sports Writer with t...
Donald Trump Faces 100 Year Prison Sentence After Being Indicted Over Handling Of Classified Documents
09 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Donald Trump has been indicted for a second time. The former US president has been charged over his handling of classified documents after he left the...
Italy Wants Number Plates On Bikes And Insurance For Cyclists: Could That Work Here?
09 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Cyclists in Italy may soon have to take out insurance and have number plates and indicators fitted to bikes. Is it a good idea and could this approach...
Ireland's Child Poverty Crisis
08 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Over 236,000 children in Ireland are living in poverty according to a new report from the Children’s Rights Alliance. Julie Ahern, Director of Leg...
FAI Says It Needs Over €800M To Modernise Its Facilities
08 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The FAI has shared its vision for what it believes can create a modern and fit-for-purpose football infrastructure and industry, to transform the spor...
Why Mr. Bean Is Wrong About Electric Cars
08 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Mr. Bean star Rowan Atkinson has some interesting views on electric vehicles, but is there any truth behind them? John Gibbons joined The Last Word t...
Hydrofoils & Scubajets: The Best Sea Tech
08 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
How can you make your summer swims and time at the beach as enjoyable as possible? Andy O’Donoghue has a few suggestions! Catch the full chat by pr...
The World Water Crises May Lead To Shortage Of Guinness
07 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Will the world water crisis affect your pint of Guinness this summer? Samantha McCaughren, Business Editor with the Sunday Independent joined The Las...
More Animals Are Being Abused And Abandoned Than Ever Before
07 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The ISPCA has launched an urgent national appeal as many of its rescue centres are coming under pressure to keep up with a sharp rise in animal cruelt...
How To Spot The Latest Highly Deceptive Financial Scams
07 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
It is important to be on high alert these days with a worrying rise in financial scams. So how can you avoid the latest wave of scammers? Charlie Wes...
Harry Styles Comes To Slane
06 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Harry Styles will play one of the most anticipated gigs of the year at Slane Castle this Saturday. John Caddell and Dee Reddy joined The Last Word to...
Head For The Spare Room If Your Partner Snores To Save Your Relationship, Urges Expert
06 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Snoring is extremely common, but can get irritating for people who are on the receiving end! What can be done to help those with other halves who are...
Senior Kinahan Cartel Member Liam Byrne Arrested By Spanish Police
06 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Footage has emerged of senior Kinahan Cartel member Liam Byrne being arrested by Spanish police while out to dinner with his family. He is now being d...
Around 85% Of Us Experience Acne At Some Point: How Do You Best Treat It?
06 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Acne is a very common condition that affects around 85% of people. What causes it and how is it best treated? Dr. Brian Higgins, GP from Galway Prima...