The Hard Shoulder The Hard Shoulder

Report on handling of Covid-19 due by end of the year

Nov 2, 2026 · 8m

Summary

This episode examines the upcoming findings of Ireland’s independent COVID-19 evaluation, which is set to release its final report by the end of the year. The discussion highlights the evaluation’s focus on lessons learned from the pandemic, including the experiences of bereaved families and long-term care residents. Additionally, the show explores the debate over the appropriate balance between scientific advice and political decision-making during crises, featuring insights from behavioral scientists on how to better frame options for government leaders.

Topics discussed

St. Patrick's Day 2020 and Leo Varadkar's address Introduction to the COVID-19 evaluation team Timeline of the evaluation and key participants Nature of the evaluation and upcoming reports Professor Anne Scott on evidence gathering and lived experiences The boundary between scientific advice and political decision Professor Pete Lunn on the 'impossible position' for politicians Professor Lunn: Scientists should present options, not dictate Discussion on political leadership and outsourcing decisions
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