Stormont Sources

By Shortbread Media

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 Adv... more

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FAQs about Stormont Sources:

How many episodes does Stormont Sources have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.

Stormont Sources episodes:

July 31, 2025 Stormont in Crisis: A5 Chaos, Climate Failures & UUP Meltdown
In this episode of Stormont Sources, hosts David McCann, Tim Cairns, and Michael McKernan discuss the ongoing challenges of government coordination in Northern Ireland. They explore the halted A5 project, highlighting the lack of inter-departmental communication and the impact of political dynamics on policy implementation. The conversation touches on the structural issues within Northern Ireland's government, including the absence of a central coordinating body similar to Westminster's Cabinet Office. The hosts also look into the political landscape, discussing the leadership challenges within the Ulster Unionist Party and the broader implications for unionism. The episode concludes with insights into the role of the civil service and the need for reform to improve governance in Northern Ireland.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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44min
July 24, 2025 Youth Votes and Executive Tensions
In the latest episode of Stormont Sources, David, Tim and Michael navigate the complex political landscape of Northern Ireland. They kick off by taking your questions and then move onto the potential impact of lowering the voting age to 16, exploring the political and social implications of this significant change. The hosts then turn their attention to the media access and scrutiny of Northern Ireland's First and Deputy First Ministers, examining the recent cancellation of a press conference and its broader implications for transparency and accountability. Finally, they look into the cultural and political nuances of Northern Ireland, from the dynamics of Orange parades to the evolving relationships within the executive office. Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the heart of Northern Irish politics.
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42min
July 17, 2025 Tolerance and the 12th
This week, David, Tim and Michael look into the complex political landscape of Northern Ireland, focusing on cultural tensions surrounding events like the 12th of July celebrations, the role of leadership in addressing these issues, and the economic implications of cultural events. The discussion also touches on Sinn Féin's economic narrative following Mary Lou McDonald's appearance on Good Morning Britain. They also consider legacy issues and the scrutiny of MLA expenses, highlighting the need for accountability and effective leadership across the political spectrum.

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58min
July 10, 2025 Northern Ireland's Chaotic 2015 and Jamie Bryson cleared
In this episode of Stormont Sources, the hosts delve into the political turmoil of 2015 in Northern Ireland, focusing on the NAMA trial and the implications of the acquittal of Jamie Bryson and others. They discuss the in-out ministers crisis, the impact of Mike Nesbitt's decision to withdraw from the Executive. The conversation highlights the chaotic political landscape and the challenges faced by various parties during this tumultuous period.

We speak to Jamie Bryson to discuss the lengthy court case he faced, his claims the case was politically motivated, and the implications for the legal system in Northern Ireland. He reflects on his evolving identity from a controversial protester to a legal advocate, emphasising the challenges of navigating political landscapes and public perceptions. The discussion also touches on the cultural significance of bonfires in Northern Ireland and the balance between public safety and cultural expression.

Plus, David, Tim and Michael consider the leadership crisis within the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP) following Colin Crawford's resignation. The discussion highlights the party's struggles to find a replacement and the implications of internal disagreements. The second part of the conversation shifts to the potential revival of the Civic Forum, exploring its historical context and the differing opinions on its necessity and effectiveness. And we examine the idea of establishing a second chamber in the Northern Ireland Assembly, weighing the pros and cons of such a move.
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54min
July 03, 2025 Unionists’ Future… with DUP Leader Gavin Robinson
In this episode of Stormont Sources, David, Tim and Michael chat with Gavin Robinson, the leader of the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), reflecting on his first year in leadership and the challenges faced by unionism in Northern Ireland. The conversation covers the dynamics of unionist infighting, the impact of demographic changes, and the DUP's approach to cultural issues such as the Irish language. Robinson discusses the need for a generational shift within the party and the importance of making Northern Ireland work for all its citizens. The episode concludes with insights into the current political climate and predictions for the future of the DUP and unionism, as well as strategies that could be employed to address internal conflicts and external pressures for the DUP.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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54min
June 26, 2025 Why can't the A5 be built?
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.

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51min
June 19, 2025 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.
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54min
June 12, 2025 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.

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57min
June 05, 2025 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.

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51min
May 29, 2025 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.
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54min

FAQs about Stormont Sources:

How many episodes does Stormont Sources have?

The podcast currently has 25 episodes available.