The Hard Shoulder

This week, Ciara and Seán were joined by the presenter of Weekend Breakfast on Today FM, Alison Curtis and Saoirse Hanley, Columnist with the Irish Independent, to look back on the week that was, but with a few twists…

It’s Wish Week here on Newstalk! Because listeners have been so incredible and generous with their donations, Ciara Kelly has a forfeit to do: she needs to sing on Grafton Street!
She braves the public and sings Madonna’s ‘Like a Prayer’ with singer Bríd McLoughlin!
Also, Seán Defoe is joined in the studio by Susan McQuaid O'Dwyer, CEO of Make-A-Wish to chat about the forfeit, the donation efforts, and the impact the charity has on families…
Let’s make 2026 the biggest Wish Week yet. Every cent matters. Donate online at makeawish.ie/donate.

The National Archives of Ireland (NAI) is expecting huge interest when the 1926 census records are released tomorrow, but what information will be available and how should you search?
Joining Seán to discuss is Orla Mc Bride from the National Archive.

Daniel Kinahan has been arrested in Dubai. The Dubliner was arrested on foot of an Irish warrant, Gardaí and police in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) confirmed today.
Joining Seán to discuss the latest updates is Paul Williams, Crime Journalist and author.

Can Seán Defoe, filling in for Shane today, guess which crying baby is his out of the four clips played?
Let’s make 2026 the biggest Wish Week yet. Every cent matters. Donate online at makeawish.ie/donate.