Avsnitt
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In this episode, Niall explores the question, "Can Ireland Remain Neutral in a Changing World?" Ireland's longstanding policy of neutrality faces scrutiny amidst its support for international humanitarian efforts and use of Shannon Airport by the US military. With significant financial aid to Ukraine and involvement in EU defense initiatives, callers debate whether Ireland's neutrality is viable in today's geopolitical landscape.
Some callers argue that Ireland's neutrality is a cornerstone of its foreign policy, promoting peacekeeping and humanitarian aid without military alignment. They believe neutrality allows Ireland to maintain its identity and diplomatic relations while mediating global conflicts peacefully.
Others contend that Ireland's actions, such as supporting Ukraine and hosting US military operations, compromise its claim to neutrality. They suggest that in today's interconnected world, true neutrality is impractical, urging Ireland to acknowledge its alliances and commitments openly. They argue that maintaining a facade of neutrality undermines credibility and transparency in foreign policy.
Niall summarizes the diverse viewpoints, emphasizing the challenges and importance of reevaluating Ireland's stance amidst evolving global dynamics. He thanks the callers for their perspectives and encourages listeners to continue exploring this complex issue.
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In this episode, Niall asks, "Do you think moving refugees from the tents at the canal to larger fields with bigger tents and services is a good idea?" With plans to relocate asylum seekers to more organized camps at sites like Thornton Hall, opinions are divided on whether this is a humane solution or a misallocation of resources.
Some callers think moving refugees from the tents at the canal to larger fields with bigger tents and better services is a more humane approach. They argue that providing refugees with essential services such as healthcare, sanitation, and security is the least that can be done for those who have fled terrible situations. This move is seen as a step toward treating refugees with dignity and compassion.
While other callers feel that expanding services for refugees is not feasible given Ireland's current struggles with homelessness, healthcare shortages, and rising living costs. They believe the government should prioritize its own citizens' needs and that redirecting funds to refugee services takes away from vital resources needed by the local population.
Niall summarizes the diverse opinions, highlighting the need to balance compassion for refugees with the practical challenges faced by the country. He thanks the callers for their insights and encourages listeners to continue the conversation.
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Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this episode, Niall is asking, "Should Ireland Reinstate Border Checks Between The North And South?" Recently, Gardaí sent migrants back to the North on one-way train tickets, prompting a discussion on whether border checkpoints could help control illegal immigration. With an estimated 30,000 migrants expected this year, opinions are divided on the effectiveness and implications of such measures.
Some callers think reinstating border checks is essential to manage illegal immigration and enhance security. They believe it would help control the flow of migrants and prevent the entry of illegal items, ensuring a secure and orderly process for asylum seekers.
Others feel reinstating border checks would be a step backward, undermining progress since the Good Friday Agreement and disrupting daily life for those near the border. They suggest improving immigration processes and cooperation with Northern Ireland and the UK instead.
Niall summarizes the diverse opinions and suggests that while some see border checks as a solution, it's crucial to consider broader social and political implications. He thanks the callers for their insights and encourages listeners to continue the conversation.
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In this episode, Niall asks, "Is Income Tax Relief for Moms a Birthrate Solution?" Inspired by Hungary’s 2019 policy, which exempts women with four or more children from paying income tax, Niall examines whether a similar approach could increase Ireland's birth rate.
Some callers think offering income tax relief for mothers could be a great incentive to boost the birth rate in Ireland. Hungary's policy shows that it's a practical way to support families financially and encourage larger families. Raising children is expensive, and this kind of relief can significantly ease the financial burden. It also acknowledges the value of motherhood and the effort that goes into raising the next generation. One caller noted, "Income tax relief for moms could be a game-changer for Ireland. It would not only encourage higher birth rates but also help address demographic challenges like an aging population. Many young couples delay having children due to financial concerns, and this kind of policy could make a big difference."
While other callers are against the idea. They argue that tax relief for moms might not be fair to everyone. What about families who can't have children or choose not to for various reasons? This policy could create inequality and resentment among those who don't benefit from it. They suggest that the government should instead invest in creating a more supportive environment for all families, regardless of the number of children they have.
Niall summarizes the diverse opinions and suggests that while income tax relief for mothers could boost birth rates, it is essential to consider the broader implications and potential inequalities. He thanks the callers for their insights and encourages listeners to keep the conversation going.
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In this episode, Niall explores the age-old question: "Tip or Skip? Should Tipping Your Server Be Compulsory?" With the rising cost of living, tipping has become an integral part of service industry workers' income. However, should it be mandatory? Niall dives into this contentious issue, examining both sides of the argument.
Some argue that tipping should be compulsory to ensure fair compensation for service industry workers, who often rely on tips due to low base pay. Others believe that tipping should be a reward for exceptional service, not an obligation. With diverse perspectives, Niall navigates through the debate, offering insights and encouraging listeners to join the conversation.
Some callers advocate for compulsory tipping, arguing that it ensures fair compensation for service industry workers and leads to consistent service quality. Others oppose mandatory tipping, believing it removes the incentive for exceptional service and shifts the burden of fair wages onto customers.
Niall acknowledges the valid points on both sides and suggests considering a hybrid approach: increasing base wages to a fair level while keeping tips as a bonus for exceptional service. He thanks the callers for their insights and encourages listeners to continue the conversation.
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In this insightful interview, Niall discusses the correct way to vote with John McGuirk, an expert in Irish politics and the Editor at Gript Media. With the local and European elections approaching, many listeners have reached out for guidance on how to effectively use their vote.
John breaks down the Irish electoral system, known as “proportional representation; single transferable vote”, and offers practical advice on how to make the most of your vote. From understanding the ballot paper to the significance of ranking candidates, John provides valuable insights into the voting process.
Key Points Covered:
Explanation of the “proportional representation; single transferable vote” system.
How to correctly fill out your ballot paper and rank candidates.
The importance of using all of your preferences when voting.
Understanding that every preference on your ballot paper is potentially as strong as a number one vote.
Why your ranking of candidates matters and how it affects the election outcome.
Acknowledging that people you may not agree with will be elected.
The significance of voting honestly and not tactically to make the electoral system work for you.
If you want to make sure your vote counts, this episode is a must-listen before heading to the polls.
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In this episode, Niall explores the question: Should expat Irish citizens have the right to vote in Irish elections? The discussion was sparked by a message from an Irish man living in America who believes he should be allowed a postal vote in Irish elections. Should Irish citizens living abroad be allowed to vote?
Some callers argue that Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections. They believe that living outside of Ireland doesn't diminish their connection to the country, and they should still have a say in its future. Allowing Irish citizens abroad to vote ensures that they can participate in the democratic process and have a voice in the decisions that affect their homeland.
However, other callers disagree with the idea of allowing Irish citizens living abroad to vote in Irish elections. They argue that voting should be reserved for residents who are directly impacted by the decisions made by the government. Allowing postal votes for Irish citizens abroad could dilute the voices of those who actually live in Ireland.
The question of whether Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections is a complex issue with passionate arguments on both sides. While some believe that voting rights should extend to all Irish citizens, regardless of where they live, others argue that the right to vote should be reserved for those directly affected by the decisions of the Irish government. As Ireland continues to grapple with this question, it's essential to consider the diverse perspectives and implications of such a decision.
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In this episode, Niall looks into the question: Is it time for rank and file Gardaí on the street to be armed?
Recent reports suggest an increase in violent crime, with gangs reportedly using high-powered weapons. Niall explores whether arming the rank and file Gardaí is the right response to this growing threat.
Caller Perspectives:
Some callers argue that it's time to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They believe that with the rise in violent crime and reports of criminal gangs using high-powered weapons, police officers need to be adequately equipped to protect themselves and the public. Arming the Gardaí would help deter criminals and ensure public safety.
However, other callers disagree with the proposal to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They argue that while violent crime is a serious issue, arming police officers could escalate tensions and lead to more violence. Instead, they suggest exploring other solutions such as increased community policing and better intelligence-gathering.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complex nature of responding to rising gang violence.need to address the root causes of crime rather than just responding with more force. They don't think arming the rank and file Garda is the right solution. While it's important to address the increase in violent crime, arming all police officers could have unintended consequences. It could escalate situations and increase the risk of unnecessary violence. Instead, we should focus on improving community relations and investing in measures to prevent crime before it happens.
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In this episode, Niall tackles the question: Should manual laborers be paid the same as skilled workers?
Some callers argue that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They emphasize that manual laborers make significant contributions to projects and without their hard work, skilled workers wouldn't be able to do their jobs effectively. It's crucial to recognize the value of all workers and pay them fairly for their contributions.
However, other callers disagree with the idea that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They believe that skilled workers have invested time and effort into developing their expertise and should be compensated accordingly. Paying manual laborers the same as skilled workers could undermine the value of specialized skills and discourage people from pursuing careers in skilled trades.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complexities of determining fair wages for different types of work.
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In this episode, Niall addresses a pressing question: Would you allow your child to leave school for a trade?
The topic arises from an email sent in by a listener, Pauline, who is torn between her son's passion for working with his hands and her concerns about his future without completing his Leaving Cert.
Pauline's son, 16, has struggled academically but shows real talent and interest in working with his father in the family garage. While Pauline is worried about her son's future without a Leaving Cert qualification, her husband sees an opportunity for their son to start an apprenticeship and work full-time in the family business.
Niall opens up the lines to callers to hear their opinions on this dilemma.
Some callers completely understand Pauline's dilemma and believe her son's passion and talent lie in working with his hands. They argue that traditional education isn't the right path for everyone and suggest that Pauline should support her son's interest in pursuing a trade.
However, other callers sympathize with Pauline's concerns about her son's future. They believe it's important for him to complete his Leaving Cert before making any decisions about his career.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the challenges faced by parents like Pauline in guiding their children's education and career choices.
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In this episode, Niall covers the May Bank Holiday protest, asking participants why they are attending and what their concerns are.
The protest comes in response to the emergence of a new migrant "tent city" along the banks of the Grand Canal in Dublin. Despite government assurances that such encampments would not be tolerated, the number of tents has risen, sparking frustration and calls for action.
While the protest is primarily focused on the immigration crisis, many participants are also protesting against broader government failures, including housing, healthcare, and the cost of living. Some see the protest as an opportunity to demand better solutions and hold political leaders accountable.
On the other hand, there are counter-protests organized by groups who believe that the national protest is primarily about immigration and label it as a far-right demonstration.
Niall opens up the lines to callers to discuss their reasons for attending the protest or their concerns if they are not participating. Those involved in the counter-protest are also invited to share their perspective.
Some callers express their solidarity with those affected by the immigration crisis and emphasize the need to demand better solutions from the government. They highlight that the protest is not just about immigration but also about holding leaders accountable for failures in housing, healthcare, and the cost of living.
The protest highlights the public's concerns regarding the immigration crisis and broader issues of government accountability. It's a significant moment for citizens to voice their frustrations and demand meaningful change.
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In this episode, Niall explores whether the right to complain starts at the polls. With the upcoming local and European elections in Ireland, voter turnout is a critical issue.
Many people choose not to vote due to their disappointment with the political system and the failure of elected representatives to fulfill their promises. Some believe that voting won't make a difference, while others feel uninformed about the issues and candidates.
However, there are those who emphasize the importance of voting. They argue that if we want change, we need to use our voice and cast our ballots. Low voter turnout only strengthens the status quo, and holding our representatives accountable through voting is essential for a functioning democracy.
On the other hand, some callers suggest that while voting is important, it's not the only way to participate in democracy. They believe that voter apathy stems from a broader disillusionment with the political system and advocate for other forms of civic participation, such as community organizing and activism.
The discussion highlights the complexities surrounding voter turnout and civic engagement. While some emphasize the importance of voting as a fundamental right in a democracy, others point to deeper issues that contribute to voter apathy. As the elections approach, it's essential to consider how to address these issues and encourage broader civic participation.
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In this episode, Niall looks into the contentious issue of whether politicians should be prosecuted for lying. The discussion arises from a news story from Wales, where members of the Senedd, the Welsh parliament, are considering legislation to criminalize lying by politicians.
Adam Price, former leader of Plaid Cymru and a leading proponent of the legislation, argues that in a world of post-truth politics, it's vital to hold politicians accountable for their lies. The proposed law would make it illegal for politicians to wilfully mislead the parliament or the public.
Some callers believe it's about time we held politicians accountable for their lies. They argue that lying by politicians undermines trust in the political system and that criminalizing lying would help restore faith in democracy.
However, others express concerns about the potential chilling effect on free speech and political debate. They worry that criminalizing lying could deter politicians from speaking out on important issues for fear of prosecution.
While it's important for politicians to be honest and transparent, making lying a criminal offence could be difficult to enforce and could lead to a slippery slope of censorship. Instead of criminalizing lying, these callers suggest focusing on holding politicians accountable through other means, such as fact-checking and public scrutiny.
The discussion on whether politicians should be prosecuted for lying revealed diverse perspectives on the complex issue. While some callers emphasized the importance of holding politicians accountable for their lies, others expressed concerns about the potential impact on free speech and political debate. As the debate continues, finding a balance between accountability and freedom of expression remains essential.
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In this episode, Niall looks into the potential impact of the Rwanda bill on Ireland. The controversial UK legislation aims to deter asylum seekers by sending them to Rwanda. Tánaiste Micheál Martin suggests that the policy is already driving asylum seekers across the Border from Northern Ireland to the Republic.
Some callers think Ireland has become a dumping ground for immigrants, and the Rwanda bill will only exacerbate the problem. We've already taken in too many immigrants, and our country is struggling to cope. There's a real risk that crime rates will increase and tensions will rise if we continue to accept more immigrants. We need to put the needs of our own citizens first and focus on addressing the issues we're facing at home before we consider taking in more immigrants. Ireland is already struggling to accommodate the immigrants we have, and we simply don't have the resources or infrastructure to take in more. Our social services are overstretched, and there's a risk that our communities will suffer as a result. We need to prioritize the needs of our own citizens before considering taking in more immigrants.
Others believe that the Rwanda bill is a necessary step to address illegal immigration. They argue that Ireland cannot continue to absorb large numbers of asylum seekers without facing serious social and economic consequences. The government needs to take action to protect our borders and ensure the safety and security of our citizens. While it's important to show compassion for those in need, we cannot ignore the impact that uncontrolled immigration is having on our country. The Rwanda bill may be controversial, but it's necessary to protect Ireland's interests and ensure that our immigration system is fair and effective.
Niall wraps up the discussion, urging listeners to consider the implications of the Rwanda bill and the impact it may have on Ireland.
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UK Immigration Barrister, Paul Turner
Niall was told today that 'If we become a transit country for migrants... then the numbers I don't believe will go down.' UK Immigration Barrister, Paul Turner, on the whether the Prime Minister is celebrating Rwanda plan success too early or not.
Paul went on to tell Niall Boylan that he has heard that legal representatives for illegal migrants in the UK are telling their clients to go to Ireland to avid deportation.
This spells disaster for Ireland and controlling immigration.
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In this episode, Niall looks into Helen McEntee's proposed immigration legislation and discusses the alarming 50% drop in Irish staycations. The burning question of the day: Has the government lost control?
Some callers are not convinced that Helen McEntee's proposed immigration legislation is the right approach. Instead of focusing on stricter enforcement, we should be looking for ways to improve our immigration system and make it more efficient and effective. This means investing in resources and infrastructure to process applications more quickly and fairly. We should also be exploring ways to integrate immigrants into our society and economy, rather than just keeping them out.
Callers also believe the 50% drop in Irish staycations is a clear sign that the government needs to take action. People are clearly choosing to holiday abroad instead of staying in Ireland, and that's a problem. We need to make sure that our tourism industry is competitive and attractive to both domestic and international visitors. This means investing in infrastructure, promoting local attractions, and ensuring that prices are reasonable. The government needs to step up and support the tourism sector before it's too late.
Niall wraps up the discussion, urging the government to address these pressing issues and regain control.
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In this episode, Niall discusses the events that unfolded at the protest in Newtown Mount Kennedy, where journalist Fatima Gunning from Gript Media was pepper-sprayed, and members of the public were manhandled by the gardaí when the riot squad was called in. Minister of Justice Helen McEntee and Taoiseach Simon Harris back Garda handling of protests at the site intended for use as accommodation for IP applicants.
The discussion delves into the responses from both the police and the protesters. Niall also explores the broader context of public dissatisfaction with Irish immigration policy, drawing attention to the significant social tensions surrounding the issue. The episode offers a critical look at the state of democracy in Ireland and the increasing divide between the government and the people.
Niall concludes by highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and understanding between the government and the public. He emphasizes the importance of addressing public dissatisfaction with immigration policies and calls for a more transparent and accountable approach from authorities.
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In this episode, Niall discusses the events that unfolded at the protest in Newtown Mount Kennedy, where journalist Fatima Gunning from Gript Media was pepper-sprayed, and members of the public were manhandled by the gardaí when the riot squad was called in. Minister of Justice Helen McEntee and Taoiseach Simon Harris back Garda handling of protests at the site intended for use as accommodation for IP applicants.
The discussion delves into the responses from both the police and the protesters. Niall also explores the broader context of public dissatisfaction with Irish immigration policy, drawing attention to the significant social tensions surrounding the issue. The episode offers a critical look at the state of democracy in Ireland and the increasing divide between the government and the people.
Niall concludes by highlighting the urgent need for dialogue and understanding between the government and the public. He emphasizes the importance of addressing public dissatisfaction with immigration policies and calls for a more transparent and accountable approach from authorities.
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As you all know Niall Boylan is running for the EU lections in Dublin and today hes asking does voting for a change really work.
In democracies globally, a growing number of voters are losing faith in electoral processes. Numerous individuals express frustration, feeling their voices go unheard. Some are gravitating towards political factions with radical populist agendas. This discontent among voters could stem from worsening living standards in Western nations, particularly the steady decline of manufacturing jobs and escalating inequality.
These trends contribute to a diminishing trust in democratic institutions. Additionally, the proliferation of mobile internet has played a role, enabling the dissemination of misinformation and bolstering populist movements. Furthermore, it's plausible that elections fall short in delivering the economic improvements voters seek, leading many to question the true impact of electoral participation on their well-being.
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In this episode, Niall delves into the question: Would You Allow A Homeless Stranger To Live In Your Home? The topic arises as homelessness continues to increase in Ireland, with many families currently experiencing homelessness. The Irish government has asked citizens to take in Ukrainian migrants into their homes but has not made the same request to help its own citizens who are homeless.
Some callers believe that while they sympathize with the plight of homeless individuals, letting a homeless stranger live in their home is not the solution. While it's crucial to address homelessness through systemic changes and increased support services, inviting a stranger into their home poses potential risks to their safety and security. Other ways to support homeless individuals include donating to shelters, volunteering, or advocating for policy changes.
Others express that they would indeed let a homeless stranger live in their home. As believers in compassion and helping those in need, they couldn't turn a blind eye to someone who is homeless and in need of shelter. Everyone deserves a safe place to call home, and if they have the means to provide that, they would do so without hesitation. By opening up their home to a homeless stranger, they can make a meaningful difference in someone's life and contribute to addressing the homelessness crisis in their community.
The debate about whether to let a homeless stranger live in one's home reflects the complexity of the homelessness crisis. While some are hesitant due to safety concerns, others believe in the importance of compassion and helping those in need. As we continue to grapple with this issue, it's essential to explore various ways to address homelessness and support those who are most vulnerable in our society.
- Visa fler
