Friday Forum looks back on the news stories of the week! Joining Pat today was Emer Higgins TD, Fine Gael, Dublin Mid West, Minister of State with responsibility for Business, Employment and Retail in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Gary Gannon TD, Social Democrats, Dublin Central. Also joining Pat in studio was Kevin Doyle, Group Head of News at MediaHuis and Executive Editor of The Irish Independent.

As the cold weather continues and people are advised to stay indoors, the hospitality industry says they have taken a hit with restaurants facing mass cancellations. To discuss further Pat was joined on the show by Adrian Cummins, CEO, Restaurants Association of Ireland.

Over 10,000 structures are likely to be destroyed and at least ten people have been killed as five wildfires continue to burn across Los Angeles. We get the latest on this and more USA news with J.D. Capelouto, Lead Writer of Semafor’s Flagship Newsletter.

Colm Boohig of Off the Ball discusses the weekend sport as the Champions Cup is back. Leinster will travel to France for a pivotal match against their rivals la Rochelle. Connacht hosts Lyon, but without Mack Hansen, as he has been banned for three games, over comments he made following Connacht's defeat to Leinster in the URC in December.

From today, there will be a broadcasting ban for tv and radio on the advertising of alcohol. Dr Sheila Gilheany, Ceo of Alcohol Action Ireland joins as her organsiation welcomes the measure. Dr Sheila what exactly this measure means, and the positive impact it hopes to have.

Sinéad Burke, advocate and CEO will discuss growing up in Ireland with a disability, her business and the plans for 2025, tackling systemic issues that need to be addressed in relation to disability in Ireland and her new home.

Gareth Mullins brings us a fantastic flavour packed recipe that is comforting and easy on the pocket, dahl with Naan breads.

The number of students caught cheating in 2024 State exams was more than double that of 2023 but what’s behind the spike in cheating and what happens to those caught in the act? Newstalk’s Sarah Madden found out.