A staggering 87% of Irish adults read at least one book per year, a figure that consistently outperforms many European counterparts. But beyond the statistics, the 2025 An Post Irish Book Awards – celebrating winners like Roisín O’Donnell, Manchán Magan, and Cecelia Ahern – aren’t just recognizing literary merit; they’re signaling a profound shift in … Read more
Nearly 40% of Irish adults listen to radio weekly, but the platforms they use to do so are rapidly evolving. The recent announcement by RTÉ to close four of its digital radio stations – 2XM, Pulse, Gold, and Chill – isn’t simply a cost-cutting measure; it’s a stark illustration of the challenges facing traditional broadcasters … Read more
In an age saturated with information, the human voice – particularly one imbued with character and authenticity – once served as a vital anchor. The recent passing of David Hanly, a foundational voice of RTÉ’s Morning Ireland, isn’t simply a loss for Irish broadcasting; it’s a stark reminder of how rapidly that anchor is being … Read more
The Rising Tide of Later-Life Parenthood: How Advancing Reproductive Technologies are Redefining Family Nearly one in six couples globally face infertility, a statistic that often obscures the complexities of secondary infertility – the difficulty conceiving after already having one or more children. The recent public sharing of Miriam O’Callaghan’s journey to eight children, despite experiencing … Read more
Just 12% of the Irish population was born outside of Ireland in 2022, according to Central Statistics Office data. Yet, the intensity of the current political debate surrounding immigration suggests a far more profound demographic shift is underway – not in the numbers themselves, but in the national conversation. Recent statements from Tánaiste Simon Harris, … Read more
RTÉ Faces Scrutiny Over Newly Discovered Irregular Payments Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTÉ, is once again grappling with financial controversy as a series of newly uncovered irregular payments have prompted increased scrutiny and a widening audit. The revelations, spanning several years, include payments to former staff and, notably, to the widow of a former Director-General, leading … Read more
Irish Sports Streaming Services See Significant Profit Growth A surge in popularity and subscriber numbers has fueled substantial profit increases for Irish sports streaming services, particularly those focused on Gaelic games. Recent financial reports reveal a thriving market, defying broader economic headwinds and demonstrating a strong appetite for digital sports content within the country. GAAGO, … Read more
Nearly 40% of streaming subscribers report actively seeking out shows described as ‘darkly comedic’ or ‘noir,’ a figure that’s jumped 15% in the last two years. This isn’t just a niche preference; it’s a seismic shift in viewing habits, and the critical acclaim surrounding RTÉ’s Obituary is a prime example. The series, starring Siobhán Cullen, … Read more
<p>Just 13% of Irish adults listen to live radio daily, a figure that continues to decline as streaming services and podcasts capture an ever-increasing share of audience attention. The recent, and reportedly abrupt, departure of Ray D’Arcy from RTÉ Radio 1 isn’t simply a personnel change; it’s a stark symptom of a broadcasting model struggling … Read more
Kieran Cuddihy Appointed Liveline Host as RTÉ Radio Faces Schedule Overhaul In a swift response to public reaction following Ray D’Arcy’s departure, RTÉ has announced a significant reshuffling of its radio schedule, culminating in the appointment of former Newstalk presenter Kieran Cuddihy as the new host of Liveline. The changes, unveiled this week, signal a … Read more