Virgin Media News

The Group Chat

News EN ↓ 177 episodes

A weekly news podcast from Virgin Media Television featuring correspondents Gavan Reilly, Zara King and Richard Chambers. Join the gang every Thursday as they discuss the latest and breaking news from Ireland and around the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author

Virgin Media News

Category

News

Latest episode

Jan 29, 2026

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Episodes

All Eyes on Rafah, RTE Reports and Douze Pointe? 08.05.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara speak with Khalid el-Astal about his struggle to get his family out of Gaza. Three new reports have a recommended a number of changes in RTE. And can Bambie Thug win the Eurovison for Ireland for the first time in almost 30 years? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tents, Trolleys and Too Young For Smartphones 01.05.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the Mount Street migration and the rising tensions between Ireland and the UK over immigration policy. The results of the Aoife Johnston Inquest has put University Hospital Limerick under pressure. And a new report commissioned by the French government has recommended that children be banned from having a smartphone until 13 and social media until 18. Hosted on Acas...

Stardust Fire: The Inquest, the Apology and the Future? 24.04.2024

Gavan and Zara speak with Selina and Louise McDermott for their reactions to the findings of the Stardust Inquest and the subsequent state apology. Richard reports from the inquest into the death of teenager Aoife Johnston at University Hospital Limerick. And they also discuss the difficulties facing the new recycling scheme and the demise of DVDs. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more i...

World War & Wet Weather 17.04.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the conflict between Israel and Iran and speculation that it could lead to a world war. The group speaks to one Kerry farmer, who is spending €3,000 a month on fodder because of the recent spell of bad weather. And "Scoop" throws the group for a loop. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can Harris crack housing? GUEST James Kavanagh 10.04.2024

Zara, Richard and Gavan look at the housing promises being made by new Taoiseach Simon Harris. They're also joined by James Kavanagh to hear about his own house hunting experience with his partner on "The Great Inspo Home Adventure" and how the Taoiseach's promises don't fill him with confidence. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aid Convoy Attack, Autism Awareness & Kinahan's Cuisine 03.04.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the attack on an aid convoy in Gaza. A new study has highlighted the struggles of those with autism. And 'Gourmet Gangster': Christy Kinahan's Google Reviews. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From TikTok to Taoiseach, Can Harris Learn from Paris? 28.03.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss the communication skills of incoming Taoiseach Simon Harris. They look at how Paris is revitalizing its city centre. And does the Britain's Royal press team have questions to answer over the Kate Middleton drama? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leo Varadkar calls it a day - A pod on the hoof 20.03.2024

Leo Varadkar has announced his decision to step down as Taoiseach and Fine Gael leader. Gavan and Zara take the podcast to Leinster House to discuss a massive day in Irish politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kate Middleton, Charlie Bird & Cillian Murphy 14.03.2024

Richard and Zara speak to ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship about Kate Middleton's now infamous Mother's Day photo. They discuss the career of Charlie Bird, who passed away this week. And Cillian Murphy makes Oscar history by being the first Irish-born star to win Best Actor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Taoiseach goes to Washington, Cillian goes to Hollywood & Ireland goes to the polls 07.03.2024

Gavan, Richard and Zara discuss the Taoiseach's upcoming trip to Washington for St. Patrick's Day. Is Cillian Murphy on the home-stretch for an Oscar this weekend? And Ireland goes to the polls; we answer your referendum questions. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vibecession, Coffin Drug & Saltburn Siege 29.02.2024

Gavan, Richard and Zara discuss the latest cost of living survey by Barnardos. Calls for so-called "coffin drug" to be made a controlled substance. And the house were Saltburn was filmed is under siege. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kids of Gaza and Metrolink back on track 22.02.2024

Richard and Gavan speak to Ibrahim Alagha and his son Sami about how they're adjusting to life back in Ireland since they fled Gaza. Dublin's long awaited Metrolink is back on track And the group discuses the latest financial controversy to hit RTÉ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Israel sanctions, children's hospital & "Old Man" Joe 15.02.2024

Ireland and Spain have written to the President of the EU Commission asking for sanctions against Israel, but will it make a difference? Zara, Gavan and Richard look at the rising cost of the new National Children's Hospital. And questions about Joe Biden's age continue, a new poll says most Americans think he's too old for the White House Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informatio...

British Royals, Boycotts and "Fast Car" 08.02.2024

Richard, Zara and Gavan talk to ITV News Royal Editor Chris Ship about the recent cancer diagnosis for King Charles and what it means for Britain's royal family. Why the conflict in the Middle East has hit the sales of McDonald's. And more than three decades after it was first released, Tracy Chapman's "Fast Car" has become a viral sensation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more in...

Sinn Féin slide and Taylor Swift deepfakes 01.02.2024

Gavan, Zara and Richard discus the new deal to restore the government in Northern Ireland and the recent slide in support for Sinn Féin And the group also looks at the fallout from the publication of explicit AI generated deepfakes of Taylor Swift Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BONUS: What does the ICJ's ruling mean for Israel and Gaza? 26.01.2024

The International Court of Justice has today issued orders to Israel about the conduct of its war in Gaza - saying it was clear that the threshold for preventative measures had been met. But, in practice, what does that mean? Is Israel likely to comply with this ruling? What change will it make for the people of Gaza? And is a point coming where other countries like Ireland could get involved? Ala...

Reverse vending machines, red carpets & referendums 25.01.2024

Richard, Gavan and Zara discuss media literacy around the conflict in Gaza The upcoming referendums, what you need to know Reverse vending machines, how will they work? And the buzz around the Oscars from Irish hopefuls to Barbie snubs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roscrea, Cuckoo Funds and Saltburn takes 18.01.2024

Protests continue over plans to house International Protection applicants in Roscrea in Tipperary. "Cuckoo funds" that are buying up properties are back on the political agenda. And Zara, Richard and Gavan have watched "Saltburn" and they have thoughts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hospitals in crisis, Israel in court & Barry Keoghan 11.01.2024

As hospitals see their traditional January surge in demand, we speak to one doctor on the frontline. South Africa is taking Israel to the International Court of Justice. And everyone is talking about Barry Keoghan and Saltburn. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Year in Review w/ Peter McGann & Fionnuala Jay 29.12.2023

Peter McGann & Fionnuala Jay join to recap on the most significant news stories of 2023. They talk Ryan Tubridy & the RTE scandal, the downfall of Phillip & Holly, live TV slip ups and a huge year for Taylor Swift. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Zelensky's Trouble, COP-out & Golden Globes 14.12.2023

Zelensky's approval ratings have slumped down to around 32% in Ukraine. What does their head of armed forces have to do with it? A deal has been struck at COP28 but it's difficult not to be cynical. Big updates in the procurement of facial recognition for Gardaí. Clothing brand Zara is under fire following an insensitive & tasteless ad campaign. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more...

The Minister, Rizz & Christmas Number 1 07.12.2023

In the wake of the vote of surviving her vote no confidence does, Minister Helen McEntee stand a chance at regaining law and order? Is it finally time for something new? We chat about why the same Christmas songs stay on the charts every holiday season. From Rizz to Artificial intelligence We discuss the most used words from this year! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Riot Aftermath, Emily Is Free & Katie Taylor Triumph 30.11.2023

Following violence in the capital last week, are more riots in Dublin City inevitable? Is it time to retire Twitter (X) as a source of trustworthy news? Richard explains why he is stepping back from the platform. Katie Taylor is now a two-weight undisputed champion of the world & how has it been over 20 years since Girls Aloud started? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more informatio...

Riots in Dublin: Hatred on the streets 24.11.2023

Thirty-four people have been arrested following violent riots in Dublin City Centre last night. Commissioner Drew Harris said eleven Garda vehicles were damaged or destroyed while thirteen shops were damaged or looted. Rioters also set fire to a LUAS tram and buses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hostages, 'El Loco' & Ghost Diana 22.11.2023

With a ceasefire and hostage deal being agreed what will it mean for the Israel-Hamas conflict? Argentina's new dog-loving, firebrand president is promising radical change but will his bite match his bark? Is Princess Diana's ghost in the series The Crown worth a watch? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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