In this episode of Stormont Sources, the hosts discuss the ongoing delays to the A5 infrastructure project in Northern Ireland, the implications of a recent judicial review, and the political accountability surrounding it. They explore the challenges of infrastructure development in the region, the quality of debate within the assembly, and the upcoming race for the Irish presidency, focusing on potential candidates like Colum Eastwood and Michelle O'Neill. The conversation highlights the intersection of politics, infrastructure, and public safety, while also critiquing the current state of political discourse. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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50:07
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.
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54:00
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.
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56:41
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.
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50:34
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.
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.
Ireland