In this episode I consider how Northern Ireland and the changes to the triple lock may become issues at the upcoming Irish presidential election.I examine the evolving shifts in Micheál Martin's thinking on Irish unity and his preference for engagement with lapsed nationalists, over unionists and northern nationalists. I set out my problems with the government's proposed reforms of the Triple Lock on Irish Defence deployment... and with the opposition's response. I also explore how the presidential race could influence broader government stability.
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26:41
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26:41
Sen Chris Murphy thrashes Trump's tariff tactic
In this short episode I use an excellent Twitter thread from U.S. Democrat Senator, Chris Murphy of Connecticut to thrash President Trump's tariff tactic. As Senator Murphy correctly highlights: They aren’t designed as economic policy. The tariffs are simply a new, super dangerous political tool. Once seen through this lense, the approach makes some sense... but remains every bit as dangerous and damaging. Note that I use an AI text to voice model for Sen Murphy's tweets.
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12:14
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12:14
Shouting match or democracy? Dáil speaking time furore
In this episode I manage to link quotes from my late mentor Ben Briscoe and the great Lenny Bruce to lead me to a point where the Dáil speaking time and Garron Noone debacles meet... and leave me less than impressed.
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26:04
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26:04
Bowling for shamrock in a Trump White House
In this podcast episode I discuss Taoiseach Micheál Martin's upcoming White House visit, addressing potential challenges such as US demands for Apple's tax money and pressure to buy American military equipment. I don't offer advice, as it is not needed. An Taoiseach, and his diplomatic team, know how to deploy diplomatic caution and avoid public confrontations with the Trump administration. They just need to watch out for VP Vance.
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13:14
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13:14
Dáil speaking row... and FG's Harris dilemma
In this episode I critique both the government and opposition tactics in the Dáil speaking row, with each arguing that they should be able to play all across the pitch with the other side confined to their own half. Meanwhile Fine Gael's leadership issues is impacting government stability and messaging. So if FG TDs plan to dump Harris (and I think they do) then better to do it now.
A sometimes jaundiced, but always informed commentary on today's Irish politics from Derek Mooney, an experienced campaigner, former ministerial adviser and now a public affairs consultant.
Ireland