The Last Word with Matt Cooper
On Ireland's most cutting edge current affairs show, Matt and his guests provide a running stream of intelligent opinions and heated debates on the issues that matter most to Irish listeners. You might not always agree, but you'll never want to miss a Word.
What’s The Mood Like In The US Ahead Of The FIFA World Cup?
It’s less than a week until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off but the build up to this year’s tournament has been embroiled in off the pitch controversies.
Conflict between the US and Iran, soaring ticket prices and environmental issues have dominated the discourse in recent weeks.
Dave Hannigan, journalist based in the US and author of ‘We Need To Talk About Roy: The Keaneification of Modern Ireland’ joins Matt on The Last Word to describe what the mood is like across the pond.
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AI Needs A Brake Pedal Warns Anthropic Founder
Jack Clark, the founder of AI company Anthropic has said AI is nearing the point of developing itself without human input and that Government policies need to keep control of AI.
To discuss this, Matt is joined by Adrian Weckler, tech editor, Irish and Sunday Independent and Puneet Kukreja, Head of Cyber, EY Ireland.
To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Week Trending: The Healy-Rae Split, Gen Z Need Resilience, & Doom Spending
This week there was a very public falling out between Kerry's political sibling duo Michael and Danny Healy Rae after Michael went on radio to suggest that his brother cost him his junior ministry.
Michelle Obama told young people who don't like their jobs that they need to develop greater 'resilience'.
And what is doom spending?
Edel Coffey and Dion Fanning join The Last Word to discuss the week's trending stories.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Marie Gleeson’s Journey From A Tipperary Farm To Being Captain Of The LÉ Aoife
Former captain in the Irish Navy, Marie Gleeson, has released her memoir “Be Like the Sea”.
She speaks candidly to Matt about her experience working in the military, how the skills from her professional life transfer to her personal life, and the heartbreak of losing her son at just six days old.
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Environment: EU Takes Ireland To Court Over Illegal Peat Extraction
The European Commission has taken Ireland to court for failing to stop illegal peat extraction.
The Commission said there was “significant” cutting happening with no planning permission or assessments of the environmental impact of doing so.
John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.
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Tech Thursday: What Is Chip-flation And What Does It Mean For The Cost Of Your Gadgets?
The price of memory chips is soaring as manufacturers struggle to keep up with the massive demand from Artificial Intelligence companies.
Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss the impact of the rising cost of these chips which are essential for everyday tech products like laptops, phones and even electric cars.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
What Makes A Healthy Breakfast?
New research by the National Dairy Council has shown that half of Irish adults value a healthy breakfast, but that convenience and time constraints sometimes impact their choices.
What food types should we aim to eat in the morning to ensure we feel sustained and energised?
Sarah Keogh, Registered Dietician and Founder of Eatwell.ie joins Matt on The Last Word.
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Culture Club: Martin Doyle
Author and Irish Times Books Editor, Martin Doyle, joins Matt to discuss his latest book.
A Hosting: Interviews With Irish Writers 1991-2026, delves into Martin's journalistic archive to present a compilation of interviews with some of Ireland's best loved writers.
He also discusses his favourite books, films, music, movies and more.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Govt To Give €8,500 Scrappage Grant To Encourage Drivers To Go Electric
People with petrol and diesel cars that are more than 13 years old will be eligible for grants of €8,500 to purchase a new electric vehicle under new a State scrappage scheme.
A significant portion of the €10 million scheme would be ringfenced for those living in rural Ireland.
Geraldine Herbert, motoring editor for the Sunday Independent, and Ciaran Ahern, Labour TD and climate spokesperson, join The Last Word to discuss the merits of the scrappage incentive.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: Trump Battles To Save Ceasefire With Iran
There are signs of a strain in the relationship between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over Israeli threats to resume bombing in Lebanon which have put US ceasefire talks with Iran at risk.
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the United States.
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Should Nightclubs Stay Open For Longer?
Three out of every four people who socialise in Dublin would like to see later nightclub opening times, according to new research undertaken on behalf of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA).
Donall O’Keeffe, chief executive of the LVA, and Hazel Chu, Green Party deputy leader and Dublin City councillor, join The Last Word to discuss whether nightclubs in the capital should stay open later and what this would mean for Dublin's night-time economy.
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The Week Trending: Pope's AI Warning, 'Bin Interference', & Luke Kelly Loses His Hair
This week, Pope Leo XIV used the first major teaching document of his papacy to warn about the threat of artificial intelligence.
Dublin City Council said 'bin interference' by people looking for bottles and cans has cost it €500,000 and is leading to more rubbish on city streets.
And, a popular statue of Dublin folk legend Luke Kelly is undergoing extensive repair after visitors repeatedly broke off strands of its distinctive copper hair to take as souvenirs.
Dave Hanratty and Lise Hand join The Last Word to discuss the week's trending stories.
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Should Ireland Have More Bank Holidays?
Ireland currently has 10 bank holidays in the calendar year which is two fewer than the EU average.
It’s a topic that has been up for debate in recent years, with Green Party leader Roderic O’Gorman previously calling for more to be added.
Richard Boyd Barrett, People Before Profit TD and Damien McCarthy, Managing Director at HR Buddy speak to Matt on The Last Word.
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Environment: Planning Regulations For One-Off Housing To Be Eased
Rules surrounding plans for rural housing which aims to increase supply in Ireland are set to be eased at Cabinet next month.
Would this be a positive move for rural areas, and what would the environmental impact of such a move be?
Commentator John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.
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Has Gambling Hijacked Sport?
Author and academic Darragh McGee has published his new book “Imitation Games: How Gambling Hijacked Sport”.
He examines how betting has become more prominent in the experience of watching live sport and how young people – particularly young men – are being targeted through relentless marketing campaigns and ads.
He speaks to Matt on The Last Word.
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Tech Thursday: Get World Cup Ready
Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to chat about how you can get your home setup ready for the World Cup.
He has recommendations for high quality soundbars, projectors and other gadgets to improve at home viewing.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: Doireann Ní Gríofa
Writer Doireann Ní Gríofa joins The Last Word for the Culture Club.
Doireann chats to Matt about her favourite music, movies, TV and more as well as her new book 'Said The Dead'.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Calls For Restrictions On Advertising For Alcohol-Free Drinks
The government is set to oppose a Bill that calls for restrictions on ads for alcohol-free drinks.
Padraig Rice TD of the Social Democrats is set to bring the Public Health (Alcohol) (Amendment) Bill 2025 forward on Thursday.
Deputy Rice and Fine Gael TD John Clendennan speak to Matt on The Last Word.
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Opposition Vow To Strengthen Occupied Territories Bill
After years of delays, Cabinet agreed this week to bring forward the Occupied Territories Bill, which will prohibit the import of goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied Palestinian territories.
However, opposition TDs have criticised the Government as the proposed legislation excludes a ban on services. The Taoiseach defended the move saying they had to consider the implications for Irish jobs.
Labour Party Senator Laura Harmon and Shay Brennan, Fianna Fail TD, join The Last Word to discuss.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
State Spent Almost €500m On Emergency Accommodation Last Year
Eoin O Broin, Sinn Féin TD and housing spokesperson and Seamus McGrath, Fianna Fáil TD and housing spokesperson discuss the costs of emergency accommodation.
They also debate what lies behind the increasing costs and whether current Government plans will end long terms homelessness by 2030.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On US: Iran War, Slush Fund & White House Ballroom Fuel Division In Republican Party
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss the latest news from the United States including stalled negotiations to end the Iran war, continued backlash against a slush fund for Trump allies, and the ballooning cost of the US President's ballroom.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
What Now For Reality TV Following MAFS Allegations?
Former boss of Channel 4 Michael Grade has said the television industry faces a “watershed moment” after three participants of Married at First Sight UK made allegations of rape by their husbands.
Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke speak to Matt on The Last Word’s TV & Streaming slot.
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The Last Word On Travel: Walking Holidays In Europe
Barry Taylor joins The Last Word to discuss some great walking holidays that aren't the Camino.
He has details on shorter routes in Ireland that could be done over a long weekend as well as longer routes abroad.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: Catholicism, CMAT, & The Irish Language
While on a visit to Italy this week, Taoiseach Micheál Martin met with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, the first meeting between a pontiff and a Taoiseach since 2018.
Meanwhile, CMAT made headlines as she won the prestigious Ivor Novello Award for Best Album for her album 'Euro-Country'. The Irish popstar used the opportunity to urge artists to stop "sitting on the fence".
And a new survey has indicated a growing interest in the Irish language on both sides of the border.
Cathal O’Sullivan and Elaine Burke join The Last Word to...
Champions Cup Final Preview
On Saturday, Leinster take on Bordeaux Begles in this year’s Champions Cup final.
After so much heartbreak in the competition in recent seasons, can Leo Cullen’s side finally get over the line?
Liam Toland and Matt Williams join Matt on The Last Word to preview the game.
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The Last Word On Movies: Michael Bay To Direct Film About US Military Rescue In Iran
Brian Lloyd joins The Last Word to review the week's biggest movie releases, 'The Mandalorian and Grogu' and 'Finding Emily'.
He also discusses the latest movie news including reports that Michael Bay, the director behind 'Pearl Harbor', 'Armegeddon' and the Transformers movies, is set to direct a military drama based on the recent rescue of two US pilots in Iran.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Latest In Travel & Adventure Tech
Andy O'Donoghue talks to Matt about the latest gadgets for all kinds of holidays, whether a weekend getaway or a long haul, backpacking adventure. From cordless hair straighteners to satellite phones, Andy has you covered for all eventualities.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Culture Club: Rosemary Hennigan
Author Rosemary Hennigan is the latest guest to join The Last Word for the Culture Club!
She chats to Matt about her favourite music, movies, TV shows and more as well as her new novel 'The Hotel Guest'.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Will Changes To Work From Home Rules Convince Employees To Change Jobs?
A new survey conducted by Morgan McKinley has found that employers reversing rules regarding work from home arrangements has increased their considerations for leaving their jobs.
The study also found that women are disproportionately impacted by having to return to the office more frequently.
Tracy Keevans, Global Foreign Direct Investment Director at Morgan McKinley, speaks to The Last Word about the findings.
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Personal Finance: 25 Per Cent Rise In Everyday Costs Over Last 5 Years
This week on The Last Word, Charlie Weston, personal finance editor with the Irish Independent, looks at how much people's day-to-day costs have increased over the last five years.
He also discusses Sky's latest crackdown on so-called 'dodgy boxes' and runs through the details of a new savings account from PTSB.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: DOJ Sets Up $1.8B Fund That Could Go To Jan 6 Rioters
The US Justice Department announced Monday that it was establishing a $1.776 billion fund to compensate Trump allies who claim they were targeted by the Joe Biden administration.
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss the 'anti-weaponisation' fund, which is expected to pay out money to Jan. 6 rioters, and more of the latest news from the United States.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Ex-Garda Paul Moody Jailed For Four Years For Abuse Of Partner
Former garda Paul Moody who abused and terrorised his former partner and the mother of his child over a number of years has been jailed for four years.
This sentence marks the second time Moody has been jailed for abuse of a partner. In 2022, he was sentenced to three years and three months for coercive control of his former girlfriend, Nicola Hanney.
Frank Greaney, Today FM courts correspondent, joins The Last Word to discuss today's sentencing.
Hear the full conversation by pressing the 'Play' button on this page.
Legislation To Tackle Puppy Farms Brought To Cabinet
On Tuesday, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon brought draft legislation to tackle puppy farms before Cabinet.
The legislation proposes various new measures including regulations around litter numbers, breeding age and standards of living conditions.
Minister Heydon speaks to Matt on The Last Word about this.
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TV & Streaming: Will RTE Continue Eurovision Boycott Next Year?
The Eurovision song contest took place in Vienna last week, with Bulgaria winning Saturday’s final with the song “Bangaranga”.
But after Ireland and RTE’s boycott this year due to Israel’s participation in the competition, will they continue with the same stance in 2027?
Joe O’Shea and Elaine Burke join Matt on The Last Word.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the discussion.
CCPC Warns Over Pitfalls Of Car Hire Abroad
Following an survey of Irish holidaymakers' experiences of car hire abroad, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, it was found over 40% had issues with their car hires.
Long wait times, hidden fees and the car not being as described were some of the issues reported.
Orla Delargy, Deputy Communications Director at the CCPC, speaks to Matt about the survey and offers advice for those planning to hire cars abroad.
To listen to the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On Travel: A Guide To Visiting The Greek Islands
Greece is home to more than 200 inhabited islands, many of which are very popular with Irish tourists.
Kaitlin Murphy from thetravelexpert.ie joins The Last Word to run through what some of the Greek islands have to offer and to give some travel tips for anyone looking to go island hopping.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: Eurovision, Wordle, & The Mosquito That Killed Cromwell
It's Eurovision week but this year there is no Irish entry and viewers in Ireland will have to switch to the BBC if they want to watch the final in Austria.
In other TV news this week, Wordle, the popular online game, is getting a TV adaptation.
And, a statue to commemorate the mosquito that may have killed Oliver Cromwell has been proposed as a quirky new attraction for Cork city.
Paddy Duffy and Fionnuala Jones join The Last Word to discuss these and more of the week's trending stories.
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What Does The Future Hold For RTE?
Former government minister Shane Ross has written his latest book, looking back on the history of the national broadcaster.
He reflects on past controversies that threatened to impact its reputation and also looks forward to what the future might hold for the company.
He speaks to Matt on The Last Word.
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A Quarter Of World Cup Matches To Be Played In Temperatures Above 26 Degrees
World Weather Attribution has conducted a study which found that 25% of matches at this year’s FIFA World Cup are likely to be played in temperatures over 26 degrees Celsius.
Extreme heat conditions are most likely to be experienced in Miami, New York, New Jersey and New York.
Officials insist they have plans in place to accommodate players if the weather gets too hot, but is it fair to expect them to compete in such conditions?
Environmental commentator John Gibbons joins Matt on The Last Word.
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Tech Thursday: Screenless Tech Wearables
This week for Tech Thursday, Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss some of the latest screenless wearable tech amid increasing demand for screen free smart watches and health tracking devices.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
