Human Rights Under Fire: Amnesty International on Banda Aceh

CAO offers have just been released, leaving thousands of students weighing up their choices and future paths. To help make sense of the options and ease the pressure, Mary Hickey and Seamus Whitney from Whitney Career Guidance join us with practical advice for both students and parents.

Remote and hybrid work isn’t just a trend anymore — it’s reshaping Ireland’s economy and communities. A new Grow Remote study reveals that 36% of the Irish workforce is now working remotely or in hybrid roles, with almost all new jobs created in late 2024 falling into these categories. Joining us is Dónal Kearney from Grow Remote to discuss what this shift means for employees, employers, and the future of work in Ireland.

The presidential election campaign is gathering pace, with the main contenders stepping up their efforts and new twists emerging by the day. Bauer Media’s Political Correspondent, Seán Defoe, joins us to break down the key players, strategies, and what’s likely to shape the race in the weeks ahead.

Nigel Conway, creator of The Mindful Schoolhouse, joins us to talk about his innovative YouTube channel designed to support mindfulness, emotional wellbeing, and focus for children. Starting with ages 4–7 and expanding across all primary and secondary levels, Nigel shares how the channel helps kids pause, breathe, and develop tools for calm in both the classroom and at home.

On International Dog Day, we shared the story of Stout, a brave pup whose short life sparked a campaign for animal welfare reform. Today, Tara O’Connor, Stout’s foster carer, joins us to share his journey, the impact he had on those around him, and the movement now known as Stout’s Law. Discover how one dog’s story is inspiring change and raising awareness for the protection of vulnerable animals.

Join us as Eileen Dunne, Chair of the Kennedy Summer School, and Eamonn Hore, Director, share insights into this year’s exciting programme. From thought-provoking talks to a special business event on Wednesday evening, they discuss how the Summer School enriches local culture, supports the economy, and continues to be a cornerstone of ideas and community in the region.

Today, Stephen Bowen, Executive Director of Amnesty International, joins us to discuss the alarming news from Banda Aceh, where two men were publicly flogged for consensual same-sex relations. He explains why Amnesty International condemns this as a cruel violation of fundamental human rights and what it reveals about the ongoing struggle for equality and justice around the world.

Join us as Glenn Carr, Director of Commercial Business Units at Iarnród Éireann, shares the inside story of Rosslare Europort’s biggest-ever maritime development. Discover how this major project will strengthen Ireland’s renewable energy sector, create new opportunities for the local economy, and transform the port into a hub for innovation and growth.

Sgt Niall Maher from Wexford Gardaí joins the show to discuss recent policing updates in the county. Topics include drink and drug driving arrests, accommodation fraud, vehicle thefts, distracted driving, and safety tips for the darker evenings. Sgt Maher also shares advice on parking near schools and how residents can help keep their communities safe.

Former Irish Army officer and TD Cathal Berry joins the show to discuss the escalating conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon. He provides insight into what role the Irish Army may need to play, the implications for Irish foreign policy and the challenges facing the region’s stability.