Path to Power
News & Politics
About
In Path to Power, experienced broadcaster Matt Cooper and guests bring their individual points of view to a lively weekly discussion that sets the agenda and examines all the political and current issues. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
- Ireland’s Antisemitism Debate
John Deasy and Brenda Power join Matt to discuss topics including Ireland's antisemitism debate, nuclear power, abortion laws, and the impact of Gerry Hutch in the Dublin Central by-election. They also touch on Sinn Féin, Ukrainian support…
- Why Not a Mini Budget?
This episode features Matt, Danny McConnell, and John Lee discussing various political topics including government support for Ukrainians, Sinn Féin\
- How Protest Should Be Done - The Expert’s View
Brendan Ogle shares his perspective on protest methods, referencing the diesel protests and government actions. He also reflects on his involvement in the Locomotive Drivers' Association, Right2Water, and the Apollo House protest.
- Leo's Rural-Urban Divide
Shane Coleman, Lise Hand, and Matt debate the rural-urban divide, urban deprivation, and public protests. The discussion includes Leo Varadkar's comments and the potential for social partnership.
- PTP America: J. Edgar Boozer, Pulp Fiction, and a Raccoon's Penis
This episode of PTP America covers various topics including political figures like Kash Patel, Pete Hegseth, RFK Jr., Tucker Carlson, Marjorie Taylor Greene, and Donald Trump. It also touches on the FIFA World Cup and Joe Rogan.
- Powder keg Politics and Protests
This episode of Path to Power features discussion with Leo Varadkar and Áine Kerr on recent political events. Topics include diesel protests, Dáil member conduct, the rural-urban divide, and the actions of specific political figures.
- Fuelling the (Ire)land
Brenda Power and John Deasy join Matt to discuss topics including government confrontation of protests, carbon tax increases, nuclear power, and IPAS Centres. They also cover the Department of Education's budget issues, teacher pay, and Ma…
- Everything Goes Off the Rails
This episode of Path to Power discusses the MetroLink project and its potential derailment due to the departure of its boss, Seán Sweeney. It also covers the impact of the attack on Iran on the Irish economy, government finances, and quest…
- How Many TDs to Change a Lightbulb?
In this episode, Danny McConnell and John Lee join Matt to discuss various topics including the proposal to limit the number of TDs, delays in handing over the National Children's Hospital, and the efficiency of the Civil Service. They als…
- The Price Donald Trump Makes Us Pay
This episode discusses Irish reactions to Donald Trump's Iranian actions, Micheál Martin's Oval Office visit, and the safety of Irish people traveling to America. It also covers the situation in Cuba, the economic impact of the Gulf crisis…
- Micheál Martin's Mission: Impossible
This episode discusses Micheál Martin's visit to the Oval Office and his meeting with President Trump. Lise Hand and Shane Coleman join Matt to assess the implications for Irish interests, while also considering statements made by Catherin…
- How the Iranian War Impacts Ireland
Brenda Power and John Deasy join Matt to discuss America's actions in Iran and Ireland's position. They assess potential actions for Micheál Martin, the economic impact of a prolonged war, and government responsibilities regarding citizens…
- Sinn Féin Under the Microscope
This episode discusses Sinn Féin's prospects in the Dublin Central by-election, their position on Ukraine, and Mary Lou McDonald's memories. It also covers cost-of-living issues, rent reforms, house building, and Ireland's defense readines…
- Children and Babies and Providing for Them
Matt Cooper, Áine Kerr, and Shane Coleman discuss the role of SNAs, government social media regulation, the planning refusal for the Rotunda Hospital, and questions surrounding Sinn Féin's White House invitation.
- Banged Up Abroad
This episode of Path to Power features John Deasy and Brenda Power discussing various topics including the Seamus Culleton case, Irish emigrants to the US, the Iranian Regime, and Sinn Féin's positions. They also cover the rise of the Soci…
- The Rain Blame Game
Danny McConnell and John Lee discuss Ireland's repeated failure to deliver flood defences and critical infrastructure. They also examine the Social Democrats, the upcoming Dublin by-election, the government's stance on Mercosur, and the pe…
- Get the Fliuch Out of Here
Shane Coleman and Lise Hand discuss a variety of political and social topics, including weather warnings, political polls, international relations, agricultural issues, Irish women, and protest songs. The episode also touches on the impact…
- A Bowl of Shamrock and a Billion Dollars for Trump
This episode features John Deasy and Brenda Power discussing Donald Trump's Board of Peace proposal, its potential impact on Ireland, and US relations. The discussion also covers Gráinne Seoige's experience with internet fake photos and th…
- Naughty Micheál, Nudie Grok, & Paschal's Silence
Matt Cooper, Danny McConnell, and John Lee discuss current Irish political issues, including the Mercosur deal, data centres, Grok AI, and Paschal Donohoe's relationship with the World Bank. They also touch on immigration policy, journalis…
- The Guns of January
Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt Cooper to discuss the Mercosur deal, Irish-Chinese relations, and concerns regarding Donald Trump and Elon Musk. The episode also covers Jim O'Callaghan's impact on journalism, road safety policies…
- Simon Harris & His Many Opinions
Lise Hand, Shane Coleman, and Matt Cooper discuss the recent newspaper interviews given by Tánaiste Simon Harris. The discussion includes his views on migration and homelessness, his political approach, and broader topics like foreign dipl…
- Tally-Ho to 2025 & Tales of Trump
Danny McConnell and John Lee join host Matt Cooper to discuss Irish politics, Sinn Féin, the economy, and the prospect of a reverse Brexit. The episode also covers the IDA's investment success and includes a personal account of a private d…
- Teflon Taoiseach 2.0
Danny McConnell and John Lee join host Matt Cooper to examine Micheál Martin's recent political challenges, including the impact of his Jim Gavin gaffe. They discuss the current performance of the political landscape featured in the episod…
- Blister Packs & Home Videos
Brenda Power and Larry Donnelly join Matt to discuss various current affairs, including adult reliance on parents, medicine blister pack charges, US entry requirements, and Irish political developments such as Fianna Fáil reports and the D…
- Ireland is Angerland
In their 100th episode, Matt, Lise Hand, and Shane Coleman discuss RTÉ's Eurovision departure, Irish neutral stance, infrastructure projects, and tax revenue concerns. They also address political conduct and local traffic issues.
- Stay-At-Home Taoiseach
This episode discusses Irish government policies on foreign travel and immigration, the MetroLink project, a proposal to rename Dublin Airport, and political developments involving Verona Murphy and Gerry Hutch.
- SpongeBob heads to Washington
This episode discusses Paschal Donohoe's departure from government and the implications for Fine Gael. It also examines Simon Harris's new role, the potential involvement of Gerry Hutch in a by-election, and Ireland's diplomatic approach r…
- Bricks and Mortified
Matt Cooper is joined by Shane Coleman and Lise Hand to discuss the government's housing initiative, President Connolly's inauguration, Fianna Fáil internal politics, and the inquiry into the Jim Gavin presidential matter.
- Micheál Walks the Plank
Danny McConnell and John Lee join host Matt Cooper to examine the leadership of Micheál Martin within Fianna Fáil. The episode includes a discussion on potential leadership challenges, Jim O'Callaghan's credentials, and the 'Future Forty'…
- Spoilt For No Choice
This episode examines the implications of spoiled election votes for future politics and migration policy. It also assesses the current state of the left, Micheál Martin's leadership of Fianna Fáil, and potential successors.
- Presidential Fallout
Matt and Ivan discuss the aftermath of the presidential election, including Catherine Connolly's victory, the performance of Fine Gael and Heather Humphreys, voter turnout, and challenges for Micheál Martin's leadership. They also debate a…
- Presidential Coronation
This episode of Path to Power analyzes the potential outcomes of the presidential election, including the prospects of Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys. The hosts also discuss the implications for political parties, Paul Murphy's l…
- Gavin Dropped & Budget Woes
This episode examines the circumstances surrounding Jim Gavin's presidential exit and its implications for Micheál Martin's future as leader of Fianna Fáil. The hosts also discuss the details of the recent budget, focusing on government sp…
- Budget Expectations & Gavin's Gaffes
The hosts analyze upcoming budget expectations, including tax and social welfare measures, and discuss recent events in the presidential race and social media activity.
- The Big Interview: Leo Varadkar
Former Taoiseach Leo Varadkar joins Matt and Ivan on Path to Power to discuss his book, 'Speaking My Mind'.
- Game Changer
This episode of Path to Power explores rumors about Jarlath Burns and the presidency, the political bid of Heather Humphreys, and challenges surrounding the DAA and independent candidates. Ivan also provides a briefing following the Plough…
- Threats and Assassinations
Matt and Ivan discuss political violence in the U.S., threats against Simon Harris, and the latest candidates in the Fianna Fáil selection. The hosts also cover forestry issues, the career impact of Jeffrey Epstein on Peter Mandelson, and…
- Teflon Bertie Finds the Mud Sticks
This episode discusses Bertie Ahern's exit from the presidential race and assesses various potential candidates for nominations. The hosts also cover local political issues, including wastewater treatment plans and advocacy for school staf…
- Shots Fired!
This episode of Path to Power explores potential presidential bids, political tensions involving Alan Kelly and Catherine Connolly, Sinn Féin's leadership outlook, and the risks facing independent candidates. It also includes a tribute to…
- (What's the Story) Presidential Glory?
This episode of Path to Power analyzes the upcoming presidential election, considering whether it acts as a referendum on Simon Harris. The hosts discuss the prospects of various candidates, including Heather Humphreys and Mairead McGuinne…
- Arrested Development
This episode explores challenges facing the Garda Commissioner, the economics of presidential runs, and Ireland's reliance on foreign direct investment. Additionally, the hosts discuss support for local businesses, the closure of Thurles r…
- Trump Exploits Europe's Weakness
This episode discusses the potential impact of Trump's 15% tariffs on European exports, focusing on the pharmaceutical and semiconductor industries, as well as the effects on national finances and the budget. The hosts also examine Dermot…
- Scores on the Doors
Ivan Yates and Matt Cooper evaluate the performance of senior government figures, junior ministers, and opposition parties. This episode provides an assessment of individual political contributions within the current administration.
- Flatley Toots his Flute
This episode discusses potential presidential candidates including Michael Flatley, Tony Holohan, and Deirdre Heenan. The hosts also cover the Summer Economic Statement, the National Development Plan, housing policy, AIB’s return-to-office…
- Recession Incoming
In this episode, Ivan Yates discusses the economic outlook, touching on falling consumer confidence, a decline in new housing starts, and the potential economic implications of geopolitical stances. The episode also explores the political…
- Mary Lou Can (win the Presidency)
Matt and Ivan debate Mary Lou McDonald's potential to win the Presidency and discuss the potential responses from other political parties. The episode also covers Jim O'Callaghan's legal damages, apartment sizes, the Hines development in C…
- No Such Thing As A Free College Education
This episode of Path to Power features discussions on the funding of third-level education, rising insurance costs, and the emotions of Rachel Reeves. The hosts also offer a tribute to Brother Kevin Crowley and discuss various current even…
- Trump Blows Up his Critics
Ivan and Matt discuss Donald Trump's political impact, domestic Irish issues including airport updates and civil service expansion, and Ireland's stance on Israel and Gaza. The episode also covers union matters, alcohol labelling delays, a…
- PTP America | Bonus special - Trump's War and Peace
In this special episode of Path to Power, Matt and journalist Marion McKeone discuss Donald Trump's approach to Iran, the perspective of his base on American military involvement, and the role of the Jewish lobby in U.S.-Israel political r…
- Will Trump Pull the Trigger?
This episode discusses the Israel-Iran conflict, Ireland and the EU's stance, and Donald Trump's relationship with his base. It also covers the National Economic Dialogue, Paul Murphy, nursing home scandals, Paul Reid's new role, and tribu…