The Irish Question

We talk about the questions and topics that everyone is thinking about but most are afraid to say out loud. We don't hold back. We are not told what we can and can't say. You won't agree with everything we say, but we guarantee you the truth, honesty and a very unique podcast. SIgn up to all our social media platforms so we can build a group of like minded people

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August 14 · 1 hr 8 min
Doctors Challenge The Irish Medical Council
In a recent discussion, with Elaine Mullally, Dr. Marcus De Brun and Dr. Billy Ralph shared their experiences with the Irish Medical Council hearings that have garnered significant attention. Their stories reveal not just the personal toll of these hearings but also the broader implications for medical professionals and public health policies.The Context of the HearingsDr. Marcus De Brun began by detailing the background of his case. He faced complaints after publicly protesting against mask mandates and voicing concerns over COVID-19 policies in nursing homes. He humorously remarked on the frivolous nature of the complaints against him, which included allegations about not using hand sanitizer while shaking hands with protestors. "The purpose of it really was to send a message to the rest of the doctors... that any sort of complaining about vaccines, particularly COVID vaccines, wasn't going to be tolerated," he explained.Finding and RepercussionsThe hearings were lengthy and intense, lasting several days. Dr. De Brun was ultimately found guilty of undermining public health guidelines, a verdict he anticipated and even accepted. "I was entirely guilty of undermining public health guidelines and would do so again," he stated, reflecting on the gravity of the situation. Elaine Mullally, the host, pointed out a disturbing reality: the focus of the hearings was less about the correctness of the guidelines and more about the messaging surrounding them. Dr. De Brun concurred, emphasizing how the medical council was unwilling to question the validity of the guidelines themselves, regardless of their impact on public health.Right to Question GuidelinesBoth doctors lamented the apparent loss of the medical profession's ability to question guidelines. Dr. De Brun stated, "Doctors should be able to criticize guidelines and not administer drugs if they believe they are dangerous." This sentiment resonated with Dr. Ralph, who added that the current system often discourages doctors from stepping outside established guidelines, creating a culture of compliance over critical thinking.Role of Government in Health DecisionsThe conversation also touched on the concerning interference of government in doctor-patient relationships. Mullally expressed her fear at witnessing this shift, describing it as a terrifying breach of the sacred trust between doctor and patient. Dr. Ralph echoed this concern, stating that modern medical guidelines often come with vested interests, which can compromise patient care. "The question we should always ask is, 'Who benefits?" he urged. Call for Critical ThinkingThe dialogue concluded with a call for continued vigilance and critical thinking within the medical community. Both doctors underscored the importance of questioning established norms and remaining advocates for patient welfare, regardless of external pressures. Their experiences serve as a crucial reminder of the need for open discourse and the protection of medical professionals' rights to speak out against potentially harmful policies. As we reflect on these insights, it's vital to consider the implications of such hearings not just for individual doctors, but for the healthcare system as a whole.
July 29 · 1 hr 6 min
Mayo Almighty, Dee Forbes, Elon Musk & More
Senator Sharon Keogan joins Paul Treyvaud, Elaine Mullally and Nick Delehanty for the final episode of The Irish Question before the summer break.The panel discusses Mayo’s historic All-Ireland victory, the renewed controversy surrounding former RTÉ Director-General Dee Forbes, Elon Musk’s clash with The Economist, Ireland’s attitude towards wealth and success, and the Government’s Summer Economic Statement.They also examine Ireland’s dependence on multinational tax revenue, the risks posed by Big Tech’s enormous AI gamble, government waste, universal basic income and the decline of small businesses.Finally, Senator Keogan explains why she still has hope for Ireland—and calls on ordinary people, councillors and aspiring politicians to step forward, abandon failing party structures and build a genuine independent alternative.Like, subscribe and share if you want to help grow The Irish Question.CHAPTERS00:00 – Senator Sharon Keogan joins the show01:04 – Mayo finally wins the All-Ireland06:41 – Dee Forbes, RTÉ and the accountability crisis11:48 – Can RTÉ be saved—or should it be privatised?17:59 – Elon Musk’s explosive Economist interview25:27 – Why Ireland resents wealth and success29:32 – The Summer Economic Statement explained35:48 – Tax cuts, investing and government waste42:36 – Can Ireland’s political system ever change?43:57 – Ireland’s tax base is leveraged on Big Tech’s AI gamble48:16 – Universal basic income and the destruction of small business
July 22 · 1 hr 3 min
Has Ireland Lost Control? (Cllr Linda De Courcy)
Is Ireland becoming less safe—and has the political system lost control of crime, borders and public trust? This week on The Irish Question, Paul Treyvaud, Elaine Mullally and Nick Delehanty are joined by Councillor Linda de Courcy for a blunt discussion about public safety, policing shortages, bail, crime statistics and Ireland’s approach to citizenship. The panel examines the violence witnessed in Skerries, asks whether crime data should include nationality, and debates whether Ireland’s combination of loose border controls and a weak criminal-justice system is creating a dangerous situation. They also ask why so many young Irish people are leaving, why returning home is so difficult, and whether Simon Harris’s promised tax-cutting budgets will make ordinary people any better off. The proposed introduction of digital ID—and what it could mean for personal freedom—is also put under the microscope. Linda explains how she went from deciding to run for office to being elected in just six weeks, her ambitions for Dáil Éireann, and a recent local incident that prompted her to issue an important child-safety warning to parents. Do you believe Ireland has become less safe? Is Irish citizenship granted too easily? What would persuade our young emigrants to come home? Let us know below—and please like, subscribe and share to help more people discover The Irish Question.
July 14 · 58 min
Make RTE Great Again
This week’s episode focuses on RTÉ, examining the broadcaster’s financial difficulties, leadership, editorial direction, and declining quality of programming. The hosts question RTÉ’s independence and impartiality, raising concerns about perceived political favouritism, censorship, and bias in its coverage of immigration, crime, and other contentious issues.The discussion also explores the decline of Irish-produced entertainment, the loss of cultural identity in public broadcasting, and whether RTÉ still reflects the views and experiences of its audience. Alongside this, the hosts consider Ireland’s political landscape, asylum policy, EU influence, big tech, free speech, and the challenges facing local businesses.
July 8 · 59 min
Dog Cooked, Helen Ogbu, Crimewave
Ireland is asking hard questions.In this episode, Paul Treyvaud, Nick Delehanty, Declan Ganley, and Elaine Mullally discuss the alleged dog cruelty controversy, immigration and welfare concerns, political transparency, rising crime, pressure on small businesses, and the growing debate around Irish identity, culture, and national values.We also cover the Irish-filmed Hollywood project Young Washington and end with a lighter look at George Lee, vampires, and the heatwave.Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction02:00 - Alleged dog cruelty controversy in Ireland03:20 - Cultural differences around animal consumption04:45 - Trump, cats and dogs: misunderstanding or reality?06:00 - Public reaction to animal cruelty allegations07:00 - Is this an isolated incident or a sign of decline?08:00 - Helen Ogbu candidacy and transparency issues09:30 - Media bias and suppressed stories11:00 - Political accountability12:00 - Immigration fraud, welfare and policy loopholes14:00 - Rise in anti-immigration sentiment15:00 - Crime, violence and public safety concerns17:00 - Loss of respect, dignity and social cohesion19:00 - Irish film success: Young Washington20:30 - Small business struggles and rising costs23:00 - VAT cuts and government intervention25:00 - Employment taxes and pressure on entrepreneurs27:00 - Civic courage and standing up to systemic issues30:00 - Ireland’s monopsony-style government problem33:00 - Data transparency on crime and immigration36:00 - Immigration fraud and tougher regulations40:00 - Border controls and systemic reform45:00 - Urban crime, violence and gang activity52:00 - Irish identity, cultural values and spiritual crisis54:00 - Young Washington and future film opportunities55:00 - Ireland’s murder rates and public safety58:00 - George Lee, vampires and the heatwaveFeaturing Paul Treyvaud, Nick Delehanty, Declan Ganley, and Elaine Mullally
June 30 · 1 hr 7 min
Immigration in Europe
In this episode, Irish MEP Michael McNamara shares candid views on Europe’s migration policies, Ireland’s political system, and the economic pressures facing the continent. He discusses the EU returns directive, return hubs, immigration challenges, energy policy, industrial competitiveness, and Ireland’s role within the EU.KEY TOPICS The EU returns directive and Ireland’s opt-in/opt-out position Return hubs, deportation policy, and safeguards for minors Ireland’s immigration system, accommodation pressures, and population growth The role of migrant labour in Ireland’s economy Europe’s demographic decline and labour shortages Energy costs, regulation, and Europe’s industrial competitiveness Criticism of Ireland’s political structures, civil service influence, and local governance Ireland’s EU membership, sovereignty, neutrality, and the triple lock Reflections on Irish political leadership and the future of Fianna Fáil 01:15 – EU returns directive and Ireland’s position03:14 – Return hubs and deportation policy06:56 – Children, minors, and moral concerns13:21 – Ireland’s immigration and accommodation crisis15:08 – Migrant labour, housing, and workforce pressures20:00 – India trade deal and migration implications22:22 – Healthcare, emigration, and border control25:25 – Europe’s demographic decline27:21 – Energy policy and industrial competitiveness36:15 – Automotive industry challenges38:01 – Independent voices in Irish politics40:02 – Civil service influence and governance issues44:05 – Electoral reform and accountability48:39 – Political recruitment and public disengagement51:02 – Ireland’s role in EU lawmaking54:17 – European army debate, neutrality, and the triple lock58:39 – Media, political infighting, and EU presidency61:36 – Irish leadership and Fianna Fáil’s future
June 24 · 1 hr 6 min
Who Controls Irish Media
This week on The Irish Question, Paul Treyvaud, Elaine Mullally, Nick Delehanty, and special guest Stephen “Cowboy” Kelly dig into another packed week of politics, media, social change, and life in modern Ireland.From the campaign to abolish the USC, to Nick’s visit to Leinster House, the growing power of social media voices, government funding of mainstream media, immigration concerns, NGOs, energy costs, phones for kids, and the future of Irish sport — nothing is off the table.Stephen Kelly joins the panel for a wide-ranging and honest conversation on lockdown, speaking out, comedy, family, Ireland’s future, and why more people are finding their voice online.👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments.Do you agree, disagree, or think we missed something?
June 9 · 1 hr 1 min
Belfast Be-heading... Beyond Belief
Nick, Paul, and Elaine examine the aftermath of the recent horror attack in Belfast and discuss its potential implications for security, community relations, and political cooperation across both the United Kingdom and Ireland. They explore how leaders on both sides of the Irish Sea may respond and what the incident could mean for public confidence and future policy.The conversation also turns to the controversy surrounding comments and claims made in debates about children's books and education involving Norma Foley. The panel reviews the competing accounts, the political fallout, and the broader questions about transparency, curriculum oversight, and public trust.Finally, they analyze the EU Migration Pact, looking at its objectives, the concerns raised by supporters and critics, and the possible consequences for Ireland, the UK, and the wider European Union. Throughout the discussion, the speakers consider how security, education, and migration have become increasingly interconnected issues in contemporary politics.
June 2 · 1 hr 7 min
Re-Turn to Sender
Paul, Elaine and Mark are joined by Dr. Marcus de Brun for a wide-ranging conversation on his personal journey, his public fight, and the issues shaping Ireland, the UK and the wider world. In this episode, the panel discusses Dr. de Brun’s story and experiences, the controversy around Ireland’s Re-turn Deposit Return Scheme, the recent murders and public safety concerns in the UK and Ireland, and the accelerating dawn of artificial intelligence. From political accountability to social change, technology and trust, this is a conversation about where we are now — and where we may be heading next. Topics covered: Dr. Marcus de Brun’s journey and fight Ireland’s Re-turn Deposit Return Scheme Recent murders and public safety concerns in the UK and Ireland The rapid rise of AI and what it means for society Media, politics, trust and accountability Guest: Dr. Marcus de Brun Hosts: Paul Treyvaud, Elaine Mullally and Mark
May 28 · 1 hr 5 min
Bye Election Knockout - with Eddie Punch
Join Nick, Paul, Elaine, and guest host Eddie Punch for the latest episode of Irish Question, as they unpack the recent by-elections and the political fallout that followed.The panel also looks at the very different media treatment of two killings in Dublin, asking what those contrasts reveal about politics, policing, and public debate in Ireland. Plus, there is plenty more discussion on the stories shaping the week.Follow Irish Question on all socials for clips, updates, and new episodes.
May 14 · 52 min
Paid To Leave
This week, Declan, Elaine and Paul dive into some of the biggest stories making headlines and sparking debate across Ireland and the UK. They discuss reports around Ukrainians being offered financial incentives to return home, the growing political pressure on Keir Starmer and whether he can hold his position, and the shocking wave of staff resignations in protest at the ongoing issues surrounding the National Children’s Hospital project. Expect sharp opinions, honest conversation, and plenty of debate as the trio break down the politics, public reaction, and what these stories could mean going forward. 🎙️ Topics covered: * Ukrainians being paid to return home * Keir Starmer under pressure * Staff quitting in protest at the Children’s Hospital * Irish and UK political fallout * Public trust and government accountability Subscribe for weekly discussions on politics, current affairs, and the stories everyone’s talking about.
May 7 · 1 hr
Ireland Has Had Enough
This week on The Irish Question, Paul Treyvaud, Nick Delehanty and Elaine Mullally tackle some of the biggest issues facing Ireland and Europe right now — from terror warnings and rising public safety concerns to immigration policy, housing pressure, and the growing frustration with government leadership. The panel discuss recent attacks across Europe, Ireland’s changing social landscape, and why more people feel mainstream politics is no longer representing ordinary citizens.The conversation also dives into the upcoming by-elections, the future of protest movements in Ireland, fuel shortages linked to tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, and the economic uncertainty facing businesses and families across the country. Expect strong opinions, political debate, conspiracy theories, and plenty of straight talking from one of Ireland’s fastest-growing independent political podcasts.
S1 · E14
April 30 · 56 min
Hey Teacher - Leave those kids alone! - Episode 14
In this explosive episode, Declan, Elaine, Nick and Paul dive headfirst into one of the most controversial debates in Ireland right now — Micheál Martin’s latest comments on children and transgender identity. But the conversation doesn’t stop there. The group also tackles the rise in lone wolf attacks across Europe, escalating anti-social behaviour in Dún Laoghaire, concerns about public safety, and the political and media fallout from the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. Expect passionate opinions, sharp disagreements, dark humour, and plenty of moments that will leave listeners thinking long after the episode ends. This is an unfiltered conversation covering the stories everyone is talking about — and some the media won’t touch. Links mentioned in this episode: List of Political Parties in Ireland: https://theirishquestion.ie/downloads/ US study on transgender suicide risk: https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/press/transpop-suicide-press-release/ Article on chaplain who was stabbed in terrorist probe in Galway, August 2024: https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/renmore-barracks-galway-stabbing-live-33476858 Clip of Micheál Martin interview about security checks and no vetting: https://x.com/mullallyelaine/status/1948130762571878788 Man linked to €800k fraud probe flew to Dublin weekly to collect dole: https://www.thejournal.ie/man-linked-to-fraud-flew-to-dublin-to-collect-dole-olatunde-salawe-7023676-Apr2026/?utm_source=twitter_short Other related piece — proposed laws in Denmark to deport migrants who have been sentenced to more than 12 months in prison: https://x.com/raphlesioniste2/status/2048632006188134461 Follow The Irish Question on TikTok, YouTube, X, Instagram, and Spotify to stay in the loop. Catch up with the team on X: Declan, Elaine, Nick and Paul — along with Aidan Joyce, the guy behind the scenes — are all active there, as well as the main Irish Question account. @irish_question_ — The Irish Question @declanganley — Declan @mullallyelaine — Elaine @Nick_Delehanty — Nick @PaulTreyvaud — Paul @aidanjoyce — Aidan Joyce, the guy behind the scenes Website coming soon: theirishquestion.ie Sign up to get notified when it goes live.
S1 · E13
April 23 · 1 hr
It’s the Boggers vs. Townies in Ireland
Declan, Paul, Nick and Elaine are back with another no-nonsense episode tackling the stories shaping Ireland right now. This week, the panel dives into Leo Varadkar and the growing backlash over policies impacting farmers and rural communities, breaking down what it means for life beyond the cities. They also unpack the fallout from the recent fuel protests — who’s feeling the pressure, what’s changed, and what could come next — before turning to the latest political drama with a deep look at the internal shake-up and “coup” talk inside Fianna Fáil. Sharp opinions, real debate, and plenty more along the way. Follow The Irish Question on TikTok, YouTube, X, Instagram, and Spotify to stay in the loop. Download article link: Irish Independent article about Sean Kelly and the European Union veto https://theirishquestion.ie/downloads Catch up with the team on X: Declan, Paul, Nick and Elaine — along with Aidan Joyce behind the scenes — are all active there, as well as the main Irish Question account. @irish_question_ — The Irish Question @declanganley — Declan @mullallyelaine — Elaine @Nick_Delehanty — Nick @PaulTreyvaud — Paul @aidanjoyce — Aidan Joyce Website coming soon: theirishquestion.ie Sign up to get notified when it goes live.
S1 · E12
April 16 · 1 hr 1 min
Major Fallout - Ireland - Episode 12
In this episode, Elaine, Nick, Declan, and Sarah sit down to unpack some of the biggest stories shaping Ireland and Europe right now. From the growing fuel protests and what they mean for everyday people, to a deep dive into the upcoming EU elections and the stakes involved, nothing is off the table. The panel also breaks down the latest developments in Irish politics, including the tensions surrounding a potential vote of no confidence in the government. Expect sharp analysis, different perspectives, and a few heated debates along the way. If you’re trying to make sense of the headlines—or just want to hear real conversations about what’s going on—this is one you won’t want to miss. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more weekly discussions. Link to The Oil Report by Tim Duggan https://theoilreport.substack.com
April 10 · 26 min
Episode 11 - A line that should not be crossed
Declan and Elaine discuss the government’s outrageous breach of trust and care to the Defence Forces as the government announces its plan to deploy elements of the Army against Ireland’s peaceful fuel protests.
S1 · E10
April 9 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 10 - Fuel Protests - National Lockdown?
Nick, Declan, Elaine and Paul return for a wide-ranging and lively discussion as tensions rise across the country.With fuel protests escalating and demonstrators blocking roads in response to soaring prices, the panel dives into whether this is the beginning of a broader national disruption—and whether the government’s response has been decisive enough. Protesters are demanding price caps and urgent relief as energy costs spiral, leaving many feeling they simply “can’t afford to go home.”The conversation then widens to the war in Iran, a conflict that has sent shockwaves through global energy markets. With vital supply routes disrupted and prices surging, the panel explores how this geopolitical crisis is feeding directly into the cost-of-living squeeze and what it means for the UK and Europe going forward.As the discussion unfolds, the group tackles the looming energy crisis, questioning whether governments are prepared for what could be one of the most severe fuel shocks in decades, with rising bills, inflation, and economic uncertainty affecting households and businesses alike.And just when things couldn’t get more unpredictable… the conversation takes a turn into the world of moon landing conspiracies, sparking debate, laughter, and a few raised eyebrows.💬 Expect: sharp analysis, differing perspectives, and plenty of personality as the panel connects the dots between global events and everyday impact.
S1 · E9
April 2 · 1 hr 1 min
Episode 9 - Is this an Economic Emergency?
In Episode 9, Elaine, Paul, Nick, and Declan tackle what some are calling a fast-evolving economic emergency—driven largely by surging fuel costs and growing pressure across key industries. Are things really as serious as they seem, or are the warning signs being overstated? Elaine shares first-hand insight from attending an emergency meeting of the Haulier Association, where tensions are rising and protests are already being discussed if urgent demands aren’t addressed. Paul explores a different kind of disruption—the increasing presence of YouTube bots and coordinated astroturfing, and how online narratives may be shaping public perception more than we realise. Meanwhile, Declan delivers a stark warning on IPAS funding, raising concerns about its potential links to organised crime and the broader implications for public spending and oversight. A wide-ranging and thought-provoking discussion that asks one central question: are we on the brink of something bigger?
March 26 · 1 hr 4 min
Episode 8 - Energy Cost Crisis, Who's Really Paying
In this weeks episode, Declan, Paul, Elaine and Nick examine the rising costs at home to conflict abroad. Garda Vetting & Ambulance Standards Are current vetting procedures robust enough for paramedics and emergency services? The panel discusses concerns around standards, public safety, and whether reforms are needed. Fuel & Energy Cost Crisis With energy and fuel prices continuing to rise, who is really bearing the cost? The conversation explores the causes, policy decisions, and what may lie ahead. Ryan Casey Verbal Abuse Controversy The group addresses the recent incident involving Ryan Casey, looking at what happened and the wider implications for public debate and accountability. War in Iran & Global Impact As tensions escalate in the Middle East, the panel considers the potential global consequences, including impacts on energy markets and geopolitical stability. And more From frontline services to international affairs, this is an unfiltered conversation covering the stories that matter.
S1 · E7
March 19 · 1 hr 3 min
Episode 7 - TD's On Tour
This week, Elaine, Paul, Declan discuss St Patrick’s Day — how Irish government representatives travelling worldwide, the role of the diaspora, and reflect on the President’s speech and its message. They then turn to the growing pressure on Ireland’s healthcare system, as hospital waiting lists pass the 1 million mark. What’s driving the backlog, how serious is the situation, and what does it mean for ordinary people trying to access care? Finally, the conversation shifts to the economy and the strain on small businesses, following news that a major carrot producer has gone bust. The episode explores what this signals for Irish agriculture and smaller enterprises facing rising costs and uncertainty. A grounded, honest discussion with different perspectives, practical insights, and a focus on the real issues affecting people across the country.

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