11 December 2025

Sean Moncrieff Interview

Is Nuclear Power the Way to Go?

One of our favourite interviews. As energy prices continue to rise and questions are raised over energy supply, it's being wondered if Ireland should explore nuclear power. Denis Duff, Co-Founder of 18for0, joined Seán Moncrieff on Newstalk to discuss Ireland's energy challenges and the case for nuclear power.

Guest Speaker

Denis Duff

Co-Founder, 18 for 0

Denis Duff is a founding member of 18for0, Ireland's grassroots campaign advocating for the repeal of Section 18 of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, which prohibits nuclear power in Ireland. With a background in energy policy and sustainability, Denis has become a leading voice in the conversation about Ireland's energy future. He regularly engages with media, policymakers, and the public to challenge misconceptions about nuclear energy and advocate for evidence-based energy policy. Denis brings practical insights into Ireland's energy challenges, including grid stability, climate commitments, and the need for reliable baseload power.

Seán Moncrieff

Broadcaster, Newstalk

Seán Moncrieff is one of Ireland's most respected broadcasters, hosting the popular afternoon show on Newstalk. Known for his thoughtful approach to complex topics and ability to engage guests in meaningful conversation, Seán brings critical issues to a wide Irish audience. His show covers current affairs, social issues, and policy debates, providing a platform for informed discussion on topics that matter to Irish society.

Discussion Topics

The conversation covered several key aspects of nuclear power in Ireland:

  • Rising Energy Costs: The impact of increasing energy prices on Irish households and businesses
  • Energy Security: Questions around Ireland’s energy supply and import dependency
  • Climate Commitments: How Ireland can meet its zero-carbon targets by 2050
  • Nuclear Ban: The history and rationale behind Section 18 of the Electricity Regulation Act
  • Safety Considerations: Modern nuclear technology and safety standards
  • Public Perception: Addressing common concerns and misconceptions about nuclear power
  • Economic Viability: The financial case for nuclear energy in Ireland
  • European Context: How Ireland compares to other European countries embracing nuclear power

Listen to the Interview

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Why This Interview Matters

This interview represents an important moment in bringing nuclear energy into mainstream Irish media conversation. With energy prices rising and climate targets looming, the discussion around Ireland’s energy future is becoming increasingly urgent. Denis’s appearance on one of Ireland’s most popular radio shows helped introduce thousands of listeners to the case for reconsidering nuclear power as part of Ireland’s clean energy mix.

The interview demonstrates growing openness in Irish media to discuss nuclear energy as a legitimate option for addressing our energy challenges, moving beyond outdated assumptions and engaging with the evidence-based case for nuclear power.