Behind the Story

As the US-Iran conflict escalates, oil prices have begun to rise, so what impact could the crisis have on prices here? Adam Maguire of the RTÉ Business desk joins Fran and Maggie to explain why the Straits of Hormuz is so important and how shipping is already re-routing away from the region.
Later, Professor John O'Brennan of Maynooth University discusses the EU response, the potential to get dragged into the conflict and the possible impact on Ireland's hosting of the EU Presidency.
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The US and Israel have commenced 'major combat operations' against Iran. Iran has responded by hitting sites in several Gulf States including Israel. Fran and Paul are joined by Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East Editor with the Economist and by Ali Vaez, Iran Project Director with the International Crisis Group to discuss the situation and to explore the possible outcome of US action and the increased threat to the global economy.

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Larry Goodman is one of Ireland's richest men, with a business empire that stretches from beef to healthcare and property. A new two part TV documentary 'Goodman - Too Big to Fail' looks at how his business collapsed two governments and brought in the era of tribunals. Ella McSweeney and Ciarán Cassidy share insights from the documentary.
Later, Arts and Media correspondant, Evelyn O'Rourke joins Fran and Maggie to discuss the decline in interest in arts degrees and asks if we need 'STEAM' as well as 'STEM'.

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The government published the country's first maritime strategy today, but what's in it? and do we have the money to pay for it? Former Army Ranger and TD, Dr Cathal Berry joins Fran and Paul to tease out the plan.
Later, RTÉ's Brian O'Donovan discusses the possibility that Stripe - the payment firm may buy PayPal, which would be a significant move for the Collison Brothers from Limerick, who own Stripe. And, Punch the monkey gets a mention!

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As the 4th anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine approaches, Professor Donnacha Ó' Beacháin joins Fran and Laura to discuss the situation now. A planned European Union loan of €90bn for Ukraine has been blocked by Hungary so what needs to happen to support the country in the future?
Later, Fran takes a look at a special project at the University of Limerick where Irish, Ukrainian and EU students are making plans to help with the reconstruction of Kharkiv and other cities in the war torn country.

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