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 22 episodes available.

Stormont Sources episodes:

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.
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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.
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54min
May 22, 2025 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.
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59min
May 15, 2025 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.
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45min
May 08, 2025 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.
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56min

FAQs about Stormont Sources:

How many episodes does Stormont Sources have?

The podcast currently has 22 episodes available.