The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up‪)‬ Niall Boylan

In this episode, Niall explores the age-old question: "Tip or Skip? Should Tipping Your Server Be Compulsory?" With the rising cost of living, tipping has become an integral part of service industry workers' income. However, should it be mandatory? Niall dives into this contentious issue, examining both sides of the argument.
Some argue that tipping should be compulsory to ensure fair compensation for service industry workers, who often rely on tips due to low base pay. Others believe that tipping should be a reward for exceptional service, not an obligation. With diverse perspectives, Niall navigates through the debate, offering insights and encouraging listeners to join the conversation.
Some callers advocate for compulsory tipping, arguing that it ensures fair compensation for service industry workers and leads to consistent service quality. Others oppose mandatory tipping, believing it removes the incentive for exceptional service and shifts the burden of fair wages onto customers.
Niall acknowledges the valid points on both sides and suggests considering a hybrid approach: increasing base wages to a fair level while keeping tips as a bonus for exceptional service. He thanks the callers for their insights and encourages listeners to continue the conversation.

In this insightful interview, Niall discusses the correct way to vote with John McGuirk, an expert in Irish politics and the Editor at Gript Media. With the local and European elections approaching, many listeners have reached out for guidance on how to effectively use their vote.
John breaks down the Irish electoral system, known as “proportional representation; single transferable vote”, and offers practical advice on how to make the most of your vote. From understanding the ballot paper to the significance of ranking candidates, John provides valuable insights into the voting process.
Key Points Covered:
Explanation of the “proportional representation; single transferable vote” system.
How to correctly fill out your ballot paper and rank candidates.
The importance of using all of your preferences when voting.
Understanding that every preference on your ballot paper is potentially as strong as a number one vote.
Why your ranking of candidates matters and how it affects the election outcome.
Acknowledging that people you may not agree with will be elected.
The significance of voting honestly and not tactically to make the electoral system work for you.
If you want to make sure your vote counts, this episode is a must-listen before heading to the polls.

In this episode, Niall explores the question: Should expat Irish citizens have the right to vote in Irish elections? The discussion was sparked by a message from an Irish man living in America who believes he should be allowed a postal vote in Irish elections. Should Irish citizens living abroad be allowed to vote?
Some callers argue that Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections. They believe that living outside of Ireland doesn't diminish their connection to the country, and they should still have a say in its future. Allowing Irish citizens abroad to vote ensures that they can participate in the democratic process and have a voice in the decisions that affect their homeland.
However, other callers disagree with the idea of allowing Irish citizens living abroad to vote in Irish elections. They argue that voting should be reserved for residents who are directly impacted by the decisions made by the government. Allowing postal votes for Irish citizens abroad could dilute the voices of those who actually live in Ireland.
The question of whether Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections is a complex issue with passionate arguments on both sides. While some believe that voting rights should extend to all Irish citizens, regardless of where they live, others argue that the right to vote should be reserved for those directly affected by the decisions of the Irish government. As Ireland continues to grapple with this question, it's essential to consider the diverse perspectives and implications of such a decision.

In this episode, Niall looks into the question: Is it time for rank and file Gardaí on the street to be armed?
Recent reports suggest an increase in violent crime, with gangs reportedly using high-powered weapons. Niall explores whether arming the rank and file Gardaí is the right response to this growing threat.
Caller Perspectives:
Some callers argue that it's time to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They believe that with the rise in violent crime and reports of criminal gangs using high-powered weapons, police officers need to be adequately equipped to protect themselves and the public. Arming the Gardaí would help deter criminals and ensure public safety.
However, other callers disagree with the proposal to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They argue that while violent crime is a serious issue, arming police officers could escalate tensions and lead to more violence. Instead, they suggest exploring other solutions such as increased community policing and better intelligence-gathering.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complex nature of responding to rising gang violence.need to address the root causes of crime rather than just responding with more force. They don't think arming the rank and file Garda is the right solution. While it's important to address the increase in violent crime, arming all police officers could have unintended consequences. It could escalate situations and increase the risk of unnecessary violence. Instead, we should focus on improving community relations and investing in measures to prevent crime before it happens.

In this episode, Niall tackles the question: Should manual laborers be paid the same as skilled workers?
Some callers argue that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They emphasize that manual laborers make significant contributions to projects and without their hard work, skilled workers wouldn't be able to do their jobs effectively. It's crucial to recognize the value of all workers and pay them fairly for their contributions.
However, other callers disagree with the idea that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They believe that skilled workers have invested time and effort into developing their expertise and should be compensated accordingly. Paying manual laborers the same as skilled workers could undermine the value of specialized skills and discourage people from pursuing careers in skilled trades.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complexities of determining fair wages for different types of work.

In this episode, Niall addresses a pressing question: Would you allow your child to leave school for a trade?
The topic arises from an email sent in by a listener, Pauline, who is torn between her son's passion for working with his hands and her concerns about his future without completing his Leaving Cert.
Pauline's son, 16, has struggled academically but shows real talent and interest in working with his father in the family garage. While Pauline is worried about her son's future without a Leaving Cert qualification, her husband sees an opportunity for their son to start an apprenticeship and work full-time in the family business.
Niall opens up the lines to callers to hear their opinions on this dilemma.
Some callers completely understand Pauline's dilemma and believe her son's passion and talent lie in working with his hands. They argue that traditional education isn't the right path for everyone and suggest that Pauline should support her son's interest in pursuing a trade.
However, other callers sympathize with Pauline's concerns about her son's future. They believe it's important for him to complete his Leaving Cert before making any decisions about his career.
Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the challenges faced by parents like Pauline in guiding their children's education and career choices.