The Tonight Show - podcast cover

The Tonight Show

Virgin Media Originalswww.virginmediatelevision.ie

A sharp look at the major stories shaping Ireland and the world, led by Kieran Cuddihy and a panel of guests.


Expect thoughtful analysis and robust discussion on the country’s only independent TV current affairs programme.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Last refreshed:
Follow this podcast in the Metacast mobile app to refresh it and see new episodes.
Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Wednesday 9 April - Trade War Fallout, Trump’s First 80 Days, and the Airbnb Backlash

On this episode of #TonightVMTV – As the global trade war heats up, we speak to Tánaiste Simon Harris following his tense meeting with Donald Trump’s Commerce Secretary in Washington. With the EU hitting back with counter-tariffs , what’s at stake for Irish jobs, wages, and pensions as recession fears grow? We get live reaction from Brussels and assess Trump’s turbulent first 80 days in office. Plus, Kerry councillors push back against new government restrictions on Airbnb lettings in small rura...

Apr 09, 202546 minSeason 17Ep. 75

Tuesday 8 April: EU Counter-Tariffs, Recession Fears, and the Streaming Levy Debate

In this episode of #TonightVMTV we dive into the escalating international trade war as the EU strikes back with counter-tariffs — how will this impact Irish exporters? We speak to a major whiskey producer and discuss the political and economic fallout with our expert panel. As the government reluctantly mentions the "R-word" for the first time, is Ireland ready for a potential recession, and what’s the emergency plan to handle an economic downturn? We also explore the rising cost of coffee and a...

Apr 08, 202546 minSeason 17Ep. 74

Wednesday 2 April - Trump's Sweeping Tariffs: Expert Analysis & Reaction

Trump's tariff war has begun. President Trump unveils sweeping tariffs targeting the world’s economies, and the fallout is set to impact trade relations. But, what will it mean for Ireland? Gavan Reilly, Political Correspondent, will have live updates and analysis from Leinster House. Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss is: Seamus Coffey, Chair of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council Dan O’Brien, Chief Economist, Institute of International and European Affairs Martina Lawless, Research Professor, ERS...

Apr 02, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 73

Tuesday 1 April: Tariff Turmoil & Ceann Comhairle Confidence Vote

On The Tonight Show: Ireland braces for economic shock as the Trump administration prepares to impose sweeping tariffs. Plus, we discuss the historic confidence motion in the Ceann Comhairle and whether the matter will finally be put to bed. Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss is: Barry Cowen MEP, Fianna Fáil Niall Stanage - White House Columnist, The Hill Alan Dillon TD, Minister of State, Department of Enterprise George Lawlor TD, Labour Party Prof Jim Stewart, Adjunct Professor in Finance, Trin...

Apr 01, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 72

Wednesday 26 March - Ceann Comhairle Showdown & US ‘Free-Loader’ Fallout

Opposition TDs move against the Ceann Comhairle, drafting a motion declaring she no longer has the confidence of all Dáil members. But Verona Murphy insists she’s staying, rejecting claims of collusion as "entirely false." With the government backing her, what happens next? Plus, leaked US messages branding European allies as ‘free-loaders’ spark alarm among western leaders. Joining Kieran Cuddihy to discuss are Minister of State Micheál Healy-Rae, Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane, Political Correspo...

Mar 26, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 71

Tuesday 25 March - "Shame, Shame, Shame": Dáil Chaos, Metrolink Debate, and US Intel Oopsie

On #TonightVMTV with Kieran Cuddihy, we break down the dramatic scenes in the Dáil as the government forces through changes to speaking rights for regional independents — is the Ceann Comhairle's position now in jeopardy? Plus, should Metrolink be scrapped in favour of faster, cheaper transport solutions? And U.S. intelligence chiefs respond to claims that classified war information was leaked via a messaging app. Joining Kieran are James Geoghan TD, Richard Boyd Barrett TD, Kevin Doyle, and Dr ...

Mar 25, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 70

Wednesday 19 March - Amazon.ie Launches & Central Bank Warns on Housing

Amazon Ireland arrives offering consumers faster delivers and no import duties. But what will the move mean for Irish retailers and for main streets across the country? Plus, the Central Bank predicts that the Government will miss its housing targets for the next three years. And do the newly unsealed files reveal anything more about the assassination of JFK? Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with: Seamus McGrath TD, Fianna Fáil Louise O'Reilly TD, Sinn Fein Emmet Ryan, Business and...

Mar 19, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 69

Tuesday 18 March - McGregor at the White House & Covid Review

Conor McGregor's visit to the White House for St Patrick’s Day unpacked. Five years on, will the state’s Covid lockdown evaluation reveal anything new? Plus, after nine months stranded in space, two astronauts are finally set to return to Earth tonight. Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with: Cormac Devlin TD, Fianna Fáil Mattie McGrath TD, Independent Richard Hogan, Psychotherapist and Columnist Saoirse Hanley, Journalist, Irish Independent Leo Enright, Space Commentator Hosted on ...

Mar 18, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 68

Wednesday 12 March - Taoiseach vs Trump: Did Micheál Martin Hold His Own?

During his visit to the White House for the annual St. Patrick’s Day event, Taoiseach Micheál Martin hoped to highlight key issues for Ireland. But with Donald Trump in the spotlight, the conversation turned to pharma companies in Ireland and EU trade tensions. Did the Taoiseach manage to get Ireland’s concerns across? Our panel — featuring Harry Browne, Ian O'Doherty, Ben Scallan, Fine Gael MEP Maria Walsh and BBC North America correspondent Anthony Zurcher — share their insights. Plus, we reve...

Mar 12, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 67

Tuesday 11 March - Bail Re-Offenders In Focus & Ireland’s Prison Overcrowding

Calls to overhaul Ireland’s bail system grow louder as repeat offenders are linked to over 40,000 crimes. Is stricter policy or improved rehabilitation the answer? Plus, with Irish prisons operating at 113% capacity, is building more cells the solution? Our panel of experts weighs in. And we are Live from Washington ahead of the Taoiseach’s crucial White House visit. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mar 11, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 66

Wednesday 5 March - Ireland’s Own DOGE?

Does Ireland need a DOGE? Independent Ireland propose a new Department of Efficiency, similar to the controversial U.S. model led by Elon Musk. Plus, a vote to grant speaking time to government-backing Independent TDs is delayed until after St Patrick's day. But what happens then? Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with: Thomas Byrne TD, Minister of State Michael Collins TD, Independent Ireland Caoimhe de Barra, CEO, Trócaire Fionnan Sheahan, Ireland Editor, Irish Independent Tune in...

Mar 05, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 65

Tuesday 4 March - Trump's Trade War & Ukraine Aid Freeze

In this episode, we discuss Trump’s pause on Ukraine aid and his trade war with Canada and Mexico. Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe joins to discuss EU defence spending and Ireland’s response to tariffs, plus expert panel reaction from Washington. Join Kieran Cuddihy as he discusses the issues with: Paschal Donohoe TD, Minister for Finance Duncan Smith TD, Labour Party Aidan Regan, Professor of Political Economy, UCD Jackie King, CEO, Ibec Global John Lee, Executive Editor Irish Daily Mail &...

Mar 04, 202545 minSeason 14Ep. 65

Wednesday 26 February - Ireland's Special Needs Crisis: School Places, Services, & Political Deadlock

In this episode, we examine the urgent shortage of services for children with special needs. Plus, the political deadlock over speaking rights in the Dáil. Join Gavan Reilly as he discusses the issue with: Micheál Carrigy TD, Fine Gael Claire Kerrane TD, Sinn Fein Rebecca Meehan, parent and campaigner Alan Kelly, Principal of Scoil Mhuire Naofa, Leitrim Niamh Griffin, Health Correspondent with the Irish Examiner Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Feb 26, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 64

Tuesday 25 February - Ireland’s Neutrality Under Threat? The Defence Debate

With Europe ramping up military spending and America shifting its stance, where does that leave Ireland? On The Tonight Show , we debate whether Ireland should strengthen its defence forces or stick to its long-standing neutrality. Joining the discussion: Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher Independent TD Catherine Connolly Independent Senator Tom Clonan Security Correspondent Cormac O’Keefe ( Irish Examiner ) Prof. Donnacha Ó Beacháin (DCU) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information...

Feb 25, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 63

Wednesday 19 February - Beds in Sheds – Housing Solution or Quick Fix?

Beds in sheds – could exempting garden cabins from planning laws be a potential gamechanger? Or is it simply a kneejerk reaction to an entrenched housing crisis? And as Ireland prepares to attend a G20 summit for the first time, we discuss whether rapidly moving events in Ukraine might impact Irish neutrality. Gavan Reilly is joined in studio by: John Cummins TD, Minister of State for Local Government and Planning Conor Sheehan TD, Labour's Housing Spokesperson Stephen Rae, Co-Founder, AML Intel...

Feb 19, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 62

Tuesday 18 February - Knife Crime, Garda Recruitment & Immigration

Justice Minister Jim O'Callaghan joins Gavan Reilly in studio to discuss his response to recent knife crimes, his plans to improve garda recruitment numbers and increase prison spaces, and his new vision for tackling immigration. Also on the on the show: Conor Gallagher, Crime and Security Correspondent, The Irish Times Niall Hodgins, Vice President, GRA Cathryn Costello, Professor of Refugee and Migration Law, UCD Tune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines....

Feb 18, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 61

Wednesday 12 February - Housing Showdown, Arts Council Blunder, and Paddy’s Day Politics

In this episode, our host Gavan Reilly is joined by Seamus McGrath , Rory Hearne , Claire Scott , and Dan O'Brien , as they unpack these hot-button issues: 🚨 Dáil Housing Debate 🚨 Arts Council's €7m IT Project 🚨 Ministerial St. Patrick's Day Trips Tune in for sharp insights, lively debates, and the stories behind the headlines. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Feb 12, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 60

Tuesday 11 February - Taoiseach's housing shift: What’s next for renters?

Gavan Reilly is joined by Paul Mitchell, Fiona Cormican, Michael Byrne, Olivia Kelly and Michael O'Flynn to discuss Ireland's Housing Crisis. With housing targets missed, the Taoiseach prioritises private investors and considers a rent cap reviews. The panel discusses: Missed housing targets Shifting government policies Vacant and derelict properties What will all this mean for renters already struggling with high costs? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Feb 11, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 59

Wednesday 5 February - Housing Targets: Misleading or Misjudged? & Trump's Gaza Gambit

On this episode of The Tonight Show: Was the electorate mislead over housing targets, or did the government really believe it would hit 40,000 completions after the election? Plus, was Donald Trump just spitballing about ethnic cleansing in Gaza? And is now really the time to enact the Occupied Territories bill? Gavan Reilly speaks to: Neale Richmond TD, Fine Gael Pádraig Mac Lochlainn TD, Sinn Féin Louise Burne, Political Correspondent, Irish Mirror Mick Clifford, Special Correspondent, Irish E...

Feb 05, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 58

Tuesday 4 February 2025 - Coalition cracks and Trump's trade war

On this episode of The Tonight Show: The Government accepts defeat over speaking time row, following the Ceann Comhairle's ruling. But is the coalition now weakened, with some in the regional group now saying they will only vote for government on a case-by-case basis? Plus, Trump gets his first trade war after he imposes tariffs on Chinese goods. But how soon will he come for the EU and what might this mean for Ireland? And plans to force public servants to spend more days back into the office a...

Feb 04, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 57

Tuesday 29th January 2025 - Outrage Over Storm Éowyn Mounts, Cabinet Representation Row & €500K OPW Wall

On this episode of The Tonight Show: -Outrage grows as 130,000+ still without power, water, or phone service after #StormÉowyn. -Just six women appointed as Ministers of State—raising questions about representation. - Another eye-watering OPW spend: nearly €500,000 on a wall around the Workplace Relations Commission. Join the debate. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 56

Tuesday 28th January 2025 - Ireland's Storm Éowyn Response & DeepSeek's AI Impact

On The Tonight Show , Gavan Reilly and the panel discuss: 🚨 Ireland's response to Storm Éowyn as thousands remain without power 🚨 The EU’s future relationship with social media platforms 🚨 The DeepSeek AI app shaking US tech stocks #TonightVMTV Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 29, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 55

Wednesday 22 January 2025 - Dáil disorder and Storm Éowyn approaches

As one storm brews off the Atlantic, another explodes within the Dáil chamber. Dail business is suspended without a Taoiseach elected, following a vicious spat over speaker rights. Also on the show, Status Red warnings for the entire nation, as “potentially historic” Storm Éowyn approaches. Gavan Reilly speaks to: Catherine Callaghan TD, Fine Gael Albert Dolan TD, Fianna Fáil Conor McGuinness TD, Sinn Féin George Lawlor TD, Labour Cónal Thomas, Political Correspondent, Business Post Alan O'Reill...

Jan 22, 202547 minSeason 14Ep. 54

Tuesday 21 January 2025 - Trump’s Return, Musk’s Salute & Irish Justice Reforms

The second coming of Trump's America First. Plus, free speech versus hate-speech online, and new plans for policing buses and trains. Gavan Reilly speaks to: Aidan Regan, Professor of Political Economy, UCD Catherine Sanz, Legal Correspondent, Business Post Stephen Rae, Strategic Risk Advisor Maria Walsh MEP, Fine Gael Jennifer Ewing, Republicans Overseas Tom O’Connor, Assistant General Secretary of the NBRU Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information....

Jan 22, 202546 minSeason 14Ep. 53
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android