Dion Fanning

Every four years, the World Cup is expected to perish when exposed to the realities of the host nations. In 2026, the US has done its best to make the tournament unappealing. But it endures, say Dion Fanning, which is why people like Donald Trump are drawn to it.

Frank Shouldice has had a cultural career defined by curiosity. His latest documentary 'Once We Were Punks' is a touching story of friendship, loss and the passing of time.

Tony Griffin has always been curious and restlessly engaged with life. He talks to Dion Fanning about Clare hurling, working with Kerry footballers and how a breakdown helped him find meaning.

When Barry Cummins walked into the house of Richard and Tina Satchwell in November 2017 for RTÉ Prime Time, unknown to him, he sat down beside a murderer.

The director of the National Archives, Orlaith McBride, talks about the huge state project to bring the 1926 Census to life. She talks about the stories that are in the census and the stories that are found in the margins.

John Kampfner has had an extraordinary journalism career. His new book is an attempt to find hope in a hopeless world. He talks about how the old order is gone and what is needed if liberal democracies are to bring people with them.

Following the failure to qualify for the World Cup, Ireland will again enter a period of self-examination. A club in England’s third tier offers an example of what can be done with intelligent management and a smattering of Irish players.

During the age of aviation, Sophie Peirce-Evans was one of the most famous women in the world. A few years later she died penniless and unknown. A new novel looks at one aspect of her groundbreaking life.

An extraordinary hysteria accompanied Ireland to their World Cup play-off in Prague. Dion Fanning wonders what this longing tells us about the country and, after another defeat, will it help on the long road back for Irish football?

Dion Fanning talks to Dave Hannigan about his new book We Need to Talk About Roy and what Keane’s life tells us about Ireland.