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.
Katie Taylor Wraps Up Her Career At Croke Park
Katie Taylor will wrap up an incredible boxing career this Saturday at a sold-out Croke Park.
Gavan Casey, sportswriters with the 42.ie, joins The Last Word to look ahead to Taylor's farewell fight against French boxer Flora Pili.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On Football: Former Ref Mike Dean Slammed After 'Secret Games' Comment
Former referee Mike Dean landed in hot water this week after he said on a podcast that he used to entertain himself by playing games with other officials during matches 'as a laugh'.
Dion Fanning and Tony Cascarino join The Last Word to discuss whether the 'cult of the referee' has gone too far.
They also look ahead to the weekend's Premier League games with Arsenal hosting Chelsea the pick of the bunch.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Week Trending: EP Waste, Decolonising World Maps & The Traitors Geoblocking
Emma Nolan, presenter of Spin Breakfast, and Lorcan Nyhan, head of training at the Communications Clinic, join The Last Word for The Week Trending.
They chat about waste at Electric Picnic, efforts to decolonise the world map, and complaints that viewers in Northern Ireland can't watch The Traitors Ireland on RTÉ Player.
Hear all that and more by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Irish House Prices Overvalued By 17%, Says ESRI
New research from the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) has found that Irish house prices are overvalued by over one fifth.
This is due to a combination of factors including a shortage of supply, house prices rising faster than income levels and increases in mortgage rates.
Dr. Paul Egan, Senior Research Officer at the ESRI and Marian Finnegan, Chief Executive of the Sherry FitzGerald Group speak to The Last Word.
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Author Interview: Sebastian Barry
Sebastian Barry talks to Matt about his latest novel, The Newer World, which tells the story of Tennyson Bouguereau, a freed slave trying to find meaning in post-Civil War America.
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How Will El Niño Impact Ireland This Autumn?
The World Meteorological Organisation has said that El Niño, which changes weather patterns around the world, will likely cause all land areas to experience higher than normal temperatures between now and February next year.
What effects will we feel from it here in Ireland?
Commentator John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word’s environment slot.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Deliberations In Lindsay Clancy Trial Enter Sixth Day
The jury in the Lindsay Clancy triple murder trial has failed to deliver a verdict for a second time.
Ms. Clancy has pleaded not guilty to the murder of her three children by reason of insanity, with her lawyers saying she was suffering from postpartum psychosis at the time of the killings.
Marion McKeone explains to The Last Word what we know from the trial so far.
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The Last Word On Tech: Apps To Help You Manage Your News Subscriptions
Is your phone constantly being blown up by news notifications? Have you completely lost track of what outlets you're subscribed to?
Andy O'Donoghue joins The Last Word to run through the best apps to help you get the best out of your news subscriptions.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: Paul Noonan
Musician Paul Noonan is the latest inductee into the Culture Club. Best known as the lead singer of Bell XI, Paul has founded many other musical projects including The House Plants and Pilgrims.
Paul talks to Will O'Callaghan about his work as a music therapist, as well as his upcoming gig at the NCH with Pilgrims and the music, books and movies that have soundtracked and influenced his own life and work.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
70% Of Kids Have Social Media Accounts Despite New Regulations
CyberSafeKids has published it's annual report entitled 'The Year Little Changed.' The report surveyed 6,000 children aged between 8 and 12, and found that despite legal obligations, there's been no reduction in underaged children accessing Apps for 13+.
Alex Cooney, CEO, CyberSafeKids and Adrian Weckler, technology editor, Irish & Sunday Independent, discuss the findings of the report.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Personal Finance: How To Save Money Between Now And Christmas
If you’re looking for ways to save money between now and the end of the year, Charlie Weston of the Irish Independent has some tips for how you can do just that.
He speaks to Will O’Callaghan on The Last Word.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Former Ireland Rugby Star On His Descent Into Drug Addiction
Ryan Caldwell is a former rugby star who played for Ireland and Ulster, but his story, as detailed in his incredible autobiography 'White Lines', is far from a typical sports story.
Ryan joins The Last Word to discuss his descent into drug addiction, ending up in a prison cell, and how he rebuilt his life.
Hear the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On The US: Trump Threatens TV Host For Reporting Facts
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss the latest news from the United States including President Donald Trump threatening an NBC host over her coverage of his candidate endorsements in the primary elections.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On TV & Streaming: The Traitors Ireland Returns
Elaine Burke and Joe O'Shea join The Last Word to discuss the return of The Traitors Ireland, how to watch Katie Taylor's final fight, and the best new shows to watch on TV and streaming this week.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Finding Humour In The Logistics Of A United Ireland
Paul Howard follows his much loved Ross O'Carroll Kelly series of books with a new satire focusing on plans for a united Ireland.
In A Nation Once Again, world-weary diplomat Fiach O'Bric is asked to head up a clandestine unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs that is tasked with resolving the finer details of reunification of Ireland, such as deciding if Dublin should remain the capital and who should compose a new national anthem.
Paul chats to Matt about the book and the many bureaucratic hurdles that would have to be overcome to unite...
The Last Word On Travel: Spa & Wellness Breaks
Sarah Slattery, thetravelexpert.ie, has a rundown of all of the best Spa destinations on offer across Ireland to suit every budget.
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As Killarney Suffers Worst Ever Floods, Should We All Pay Extra To Help Homeowners Who Can't Get Flood Insurance?
Residents of Killarney, Co Kerry were caught by surprise on Thursday night when torrential downpours led to "chaos" in the town.
Mayor of Killarney John O’Donoghue joins The Last Word to discuss what happened and the extent of the clean-up operation.
John Ryan, chief underwriter at Allianz Insurance, also joins to discuss a proposal from Insurance Ireland to introduce a levy of €24 per insured household to help those who can't get flood cover.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On Movies: Remembering Tim Curry & Dolly Parton's Filmography
Brian Lloyd joins The Last Word for the weekly movie slot with three new releases to review: Ridley Scott’s post-apocalyptic thriller 'The Dog Stars', the explicit (and very funny) comedy 'I Want Your Sex', and the high-concept rom-com 'One Night Only'.
Brian also pays tribute to the actor Tim Curry, best known for his role in 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show', who died this week aged 80, and he discusses Dolly Parton's film career.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Environment: Should We Stockpile Food To Prepare For National Emergencies?
UK citizens will be told to stock up on some food types in order to ensure they’re prepared for national emergencies.
Should that be something that’s implemented here in Ireland?
Commentator John Gibbons speaks to Matt on The Last Word.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Tech Thursday: AI Enhanced Wearable Fitness Trackers
AI is transforming health tracking from a collection of raw numbers into a personal coach. By analysing heart rate, sleep stages, and skin temperature, these tools translate biometric data into fitness plans.
Andy O'Donoghue runs through the best of the fitness wearables on the market, from watches to rings to compression shorts.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Culture Club: Liz McManus
Former Labour politician and writer Liz McManus is the latest Culture Club inductee, as she marks the release of her new book, Tiny Bruises.
The book uses historical events as a springboard for 12 stories that shine a light on the last century of Irish life. Liz talks to Matt about the inspiration for the book. She also chats about the music, books, movies and other cultural favourites that have shaped her life.
To catch the full conversation, press the ‘play’ button on this page.
The Last Word Remembers The Life And Work Of Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton has died at the age of 80 after a short battle with cancer.
The country music legend was known for hit songs such as Jolene and I Will Always Love You as well as her extensive philanthropic work.
Ed Smith and Keith Duggan join The Last Word to discuss Parton's musical talent and the incredible legacy she leaves behind.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
The Last Word On Music: Electric Picnic 2026 Preview
Electric Picnic 2026 takes place in Stradbally, Co. Laois this weekend with an estimated 80,000 people set to attend.
Gorillaz, Zara Larsson, Sombr and Lewis Capaldi will feature across the weekend alongside top Irish talent like CMAT, Fontaines DC and Amble.
Dave Hanratty and John Caddell speak to Matt on The Last Word.
Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear their chat.
The Last Word On The US: Canada To Match US Tariffs As Trade War Escalates
Canada has announced its response to the tariffs imposed by US president Donald Trump as the trade war between the two countries deepens and both sides continue to throw insults across the border.
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone join The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the United States including Trump's threat to sanction countries that trade with Iran.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
How Was A Doctor Able To Review HSE Patient Scans When His Medical Licence Was Revoked In Two Countries?
A report in the Irish Times this week highlighted the case of a radiologist who reviewed scans for HSE patients through an external company, despite having his licence revoked in two countries for misreading images.
Shauna Bowers, health correspondent with Irish Times, and Professor Matthew Sadlier, vice president of the Irish Medical Organisation, join The Last Word to discuss how this can happen and the regulatory challenges that can arise when doctors are working in multiple jurisdictions.
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Man United Beaten By Newly Promoted Hull On Opening Premier League Weekend
Manchester United began their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a shock defeat to Hull on Saturday afternoon.
Meanwhile, Keith Andrews' Brentford had the perfect start with a commanding win over Tottenham, and Liverpool rescued a point against Newcastle thanks to a late Dominik Szoboszlai penalty.
Miguel Delaney, Chief Football Writer with The Independent and Off The Ball's Will O'Callaghan join Matt on The Last Word to look back at the weekend's results.
Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear the piece.
TV & Streaming: The Traitors Ireland Returns This Week
The Traitors Ireland returns to our screens on Sunday night, and Matt speaks to Darren Smith, Managing Director of Kite Entertainment about what fans can expect from the castle this year.
Elaine Burke and Joe O’Shea also join to discuss the new series, plus the Netherlands’ decision to pull boycott Eurovision for the second year running.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Another Side Of Costa Del Sol
Sarah Slattery, thetravelexpert.ie, explains why there is much more to the Costa Del Sol than beaches and bars. Sarah has all you need to know to explore the Spanish coastline including the famous white villages scattered along the hilltops, a walk through the Caminito Del Rey, and the marble streets of Malaga city, with it’s shops and museums.
To catch the full conversation, press the ‘play’ button on this page.
Premier League 2026/27 Season Preview
The new season of the Premier League begins on Friday night with champions Arsenal hosting newly promoted Coventry at the Emirates Stadium.
Can Arteta's side go back-to-back, what should we expect from Man City under Enzo Maresca and can Liverpool put their woes from last season behind them?
Gavin Cooney of the Irish Times, former Ireland international Tony Cascarino and co-host of the Free State podcast Dion Fanning preview the season ahead.
Hit the 'Play' button on this page to hear the piece.
The Week Trending: Cork Buskers Targeted, Mark Zuckerberg’s Castle & The Return of the Train Trolley
This week on The Week Trending, Matt is joined by Journlist Lise Hand and podcast producer with the Independent and host of No Encore podcast Dave Hanratty.
They discuss the ‘targeting’ of buskers in Cork, Mark Zuckerberg buying a castle in Ireland, the return of the Irish Rail trolley and more
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The Nerd Reich: Silicon Valley Fascism And The War On Democracy
Author of The Nerd Reich, Gil Durán, joins The Last Word to explore how 'tech fascism' continues to influence U.S politics.
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Tech Thursday: 29 US States Take On Meta Over Safety Record
A landmark US case is asking whether Meta deliberately designed parts of it's social media platforms to keep children and teenagers compulsively engaged. The case further claims that Meta knew those designs could cause harm, and then misled the public about the risks.
Andy O'Donoghue explains the case and the implications for Meta if the US states are successful.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
Why Are Prince Harry And Meghan Returning To The UK?
Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan, will return to the UK later this month after six years of living in the US with their two children reportedly due to start school there in September.
Nick Ferrari, presenter of Nick Ferrari at Breakfast on LBC Radio, joins The Last Word to discuss what triggered their move and what their life will be like upon their return.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Culture Club: Gill Perdue
Crime writer, Gill Perdue, is the latest inductee into the Culture Club. Her novel, All Of Them Lie, centers around Thea, who is recovering from an injury and memory loss following a family holiday to Italy. All she has are some notes on her phone to remind her what has happened.
Gill talks to Matt about her new book, and her favourite music, movies, books and TV shows that have inspired her in life and work.
To catch the full conversation, press the ‘play’ button on this page.
New Doc Goes Behind The Scenes Of The Healy Rae's Bitter Fallout
A new documentary details the Healy-Rae family's 50-year political dominance in Kerry and goes behind the scenes on the dramatic split between brothers Michael and Danny.
Jerry Kennelly, executive producer of The Healy Raes: Blood, Sweat and Tears, joins The Last Word to discuss the legacy and the future of this political dynasty.
Catch the full by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
Fall In Baptisms Could Have Huge Impact On Schools & GAA Clubs
New research from the Iona Institute reveals that there has been a 30% decrease in baptisms over the last ten years in Ireland.
Tom Finegan, Chair of the Iona Institute, and Dan O'Brien, Chief Economist with the Institute of International & European Affairs, join The Last Word to discuss the wider impact this figure may have on the near future.
To hear the full chat, press 'PLAY' on this page!
Irish Shoppers To Be Hit With New Charge On Goods From Outside EU
Irish shoppers are set to be hit with a handling fee later this year for goods purchased outside the EU.
It’s predicted to cost an extra €2, which will be separate to the €3 minimum custom charge which was introduced in the summer.
Charlie Weston, Personal Finance Editor with the Irish Independent, joins Matt on The Last Word.
Hit the ‘Play’ button on this page to hear the piece.
Friederich's Ataxia Sufferers Call On HSE To Approve Drug They Say Would Transform Their Lives
Emily Felix is 28 and has had Friedrich’s Ataxia since she was 12 years of age. She is leading a campaign, along with other people who suffer from the condition, for the HSE to provide access to a new drug that slows the progression of the condition.
To catch the full conversation, press the 'play' button on this page.
The Last Word On The US: Who Is Natalie Harp? The Trump Aide Facing Claims Of 'Unhealthy' Relationship With The President
Democratic Senator John Ossoff, who is thought to be laying the ground for a presidential run in 2028, took aim at Donald Trump over the weekend over his handling of the US-Israel war on Iran.
But it was Ossoff's reference to Trump aide Natalie Harp that garnered the most headlines, renewing public scrutiny of her perceived closeness to the US president.
Cal Thomas and Marion McKeone joined The Last Word to discuss this and more of the latest news from the United States.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this...
Should Loud Phone Calls & Videos Be Banned In Public?
The pub chain JD Wetherspoon announced this week that it has banned customers from playing music or taking calls on speaker after complaints that the noise was driving people "nuts".
But should loud phone use in public be accepted as a normal part of modern life or should something be done to stop it?
Rachel O’Donnell, owner of the Hi-B pub in Cork, and TV producer Paddy Duffy join The Last Word to discuss.
Catch the full chat by pressing the 'Play' button on this page!
