Stormont Sources

Shortbread Media
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Stormont Sources
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Welcome inside politics in Northern Ireland. Listen to the podcast which brings you analysis, insight and experience from Stormont. Join journalist, David McCann, plus Tim Cairns, a former Special Advisor to Peter Robinson and Head of Policy for the DUP and Micheal McKernan, a former Special Advisor in the SDLP worked in the Executive from 2007-2016.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

  1. 5H AGO

    DUP Rifts & Water Pollution with Andrew Muir

    In this episode of the Stormont' Sources podcast, we discuss the Nutrient Action Programme (NAP) led by Minister Andrew Muir. The conversation looks at the importance of the NAP for improving water quality in Northern Ireland, the political challenges surrounding its implementation, and the need for collaboration among various stakeholders. The discussion also touches on the long-term solutions for addressing pollution, the impact of climate change on agriculture, and the dynamics of the political landscape in Northern Ireland. Plus, we consider the internal dynamics of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), focusing on the growing rift between party leadership and councillors. It discusses the implications of this disunity, particularly in light of recent leadership challenges and the performance of key figures like Gordon Lyons. The discussion highlights the historical context of councillor influence within the party and the potential for future leadership changes as the DUP navigates its internal struggles. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min

  2. 6D AGO

    Could Casement Park funding bring the Executive down?

    This week, David, Tim and Michael consider the recent spending review and its implications for Northern Ireland, particularly focusing on the funding for Casement Park. The discussion highlights the political reactions from various parties, the perceived fairness of funding allocations, and the historical context of sports funding in the region. The hosts look into the recent violence in Northern Ireland, particularly in Ballymena, where migrant communities have faced attacks. The discussion also touches on the media's role in representing migrant experiences and the broader societal issues of racism and sectarianism. Finally, Aaron Callan, a DUP counsellor, joins the show to share his insight on the strategic importance of golf tourism, the ongoing discussions about the future of Portrush, and the community's enthusiasm surrounding the upcoming Open Championship.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    57 min

  3. JUN 5

    Irish Unification in the EU

    In this episode of Stormont Sources, we discuss the SDLP motion for Irish unification with guests Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan. The conversation explores the implications of the motion, the role of the SDLP in advocating for constitutional change, and the challenges of accountability and meaningful debate within the Northern Ireland Assembly. Matthew O'Toole, the leader of the opposition, shares insights on the need for reconciliation and the importance of a constructive opposition in Northern Ireland politics. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    51 min

  4. MAY 29

    The Economy Minister, Caoimhe Archibald

    In this episode, David, Tim and Michael are joined by Minister for the Economy of Northern Ireland Caoimhe Archibald. They discuss the economic priorities of Northern Ireland, focusing on regional balance, the role of Invest Northern Ireland, the skills gap in education, tourism, decarbonisation efforts, and the vast responsibilities of the Department of Economy. The conversation highlights the challenges faced in achieving economic goals and the need for strategic investment and policy development. The hosts also touch on the future of golf events in Northern Ireland and the implications of recent polling data as the next Assembly Election approaches. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    54 min

  5. MAY 22

    Irish Unity Cooperation and Budget Proposals... with Claire Hanna

    In this episode of the Stormont Sources podcast, David McCann, Tim Kearns, and Michael McKernan discuss various political topics affecting Northern Ireland, including reflections on past political leadership, the recent UK-EU reset, the DUP's cautious stance on new agreements, and the controversial topic of compulsory voting. The trio are also joined by Claire Hanna, the leader of the SDLP, who chats about the party's alternative budget proposal and critiques the current executive's handling of budgetary issues. She emphasises the need for more powers to be devolved to Northern Ireland and explores the potential of a Northern Ireland National Investment Bank. The discussion also touches on the importance of infrastructure projects and the need for a more ambitious economic policy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    58 min

  6. MAY 15

    Immigration, Anglo-Irish relations and Eurovision

    In this episode of the Stormont Sources podcast, David McCann, Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan cover a number of topics. Firstly, they discuss the performance of the Labour government in Northern Ireland, focusing on Keir Starmer's recent policy announcements, particularly regarding immigration and Anglo-Irish relations. The conversation explores the implications of these policies for Northern Ireland's political landscape, the concerns surrounding immigration, and the perspectives of unionists on the Labour government's approach. They also reflect on your questions from last week before looking into Labour's legacy in Northern Ireland and the current dynamics under Sir Keir Starmer's leadership. Finally, the chat turns to the Eurovision Song Contest, exploring its political implications and the controversies surrounding participants like Israel. The speakers reflect on the intersection of music, national identity, and politics, emphasising the need for Eurovision to remain a celebration of diversity and unity despite its political undertones. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    44 min

  7. MAY 8

    Q&A Special

    In this episode of the Stormont Sources podcast, David, Tim and Michael take your questions! They look into the complexities of Northern Ireland's political landscape, focusing on the role of opposition in Stormont, the media's reaction to political controversies, and the economic challenges facing the region. They discuss Tim's recent viral moment on social media, highlighting issues surrounding a lack of nuance in political debate. The conversation also touches on the need for reform in the structure of opposition to the government, emphasising the importance of resources and support for a functioning democracy. Finally, they explore the economic realities of Northern Ireland, including its reliance on Westminster funding and the necessity for a more sustainable economic model. The hosts also consider the concept of an independent Northern Ireland, and the roles of the Irish presidency and the British monarchy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    56 min

  8. MAY 1

    Kneecap Controversy and Infrastructure Issues

    This week, David, Tim and Michael look into the controversy surrounding the band Kneecap, exploring the political reactions to their statements, the cultural impact of their music, and the potential consequences of their actions. The discussion highlights the polarised views on Kneecap, the complexities of cultural accommodation in Northern Ireland, and the challenges of free speech in the context of provocative artistic expression. The presenters also have a discussion about the ongoing infrastructure challenges in Northern Ireland, highlighting the inefficiencies in the planning system and the political dynamics that hinder progress. Finally, the conversation shifts to Canadian politics, analyzing the recent election outcomes and the implications for future political landscapes in both Canada and Northern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

    59 min
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Welcome inside politics in Northern Ireland. Listen to the podcast which brings you analysis, insight and experience from Stormont. Join journalist, David McCann, plus Tim Cairns, a former Special Advisor to Peter Robinson and Head of Policy for the DUP and Micheal McKernan, a former Special Advisor in the SDLP worked in the Executive from 2007-2016.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Information

  • Channel
    Shortbread Media
  • Creator
    Shortbread Media
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Shortbread Media
  • Show Website
    Stormont Sources
  • Provider
    Shortbread Media

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