The Niall Boylan Podcast (They Told Me To Shut Up)

In this insightful interview, Niall discusses the correct way to vote with John McGuirk, an expert in Irish politics and the Editor at Gript Media. With the local and European elections approaching, many listeners have reached out for guidance on how to effectively use their vote.

John breaks down the Irish electoral system, known as “proportional representation; single transferable vote”, and offers practical advice on how to make the most of your vote. From understanding the ballot paper to the significance of ranking candidates, John provides valuable insights into the voting process.

Key Points Covered:

Explanation of the “proportional representation; single transferable vote” system.

How to correctly fill out your ballot paper and rank candidates.

The importance of using all of your preferences when voting.

Understanding that every preference on your ballot paper is potentially as strong as a number one vote.

Why your ranking of candidates matters and how it affects the election outcome.

Acknowledging that people you may not agree with will be elected.

The significance of voting honestly and not tactically to make the electoral system work for you.

If you want to make sure your vote counts, this episode is a must-listen before heading to the polls.

In this episode, Niall explores the question: Should expat Irish citizens have the right to vote in Irish elections? The discussion was sparked by a message from an Irish man living in America who believes he should be allowed a postal vote in Irish elections. Should Irish citizens living abroad be allowed to vote?

Some callers argue that Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections. They believe that living outside of Ireland doesn't diminish their connection to the country, and they should still have a say in its future. Allowing Irish citizens abroad to vote ensures that they can participate in the democratic process and have a voice in the decisions that affect their homeland.

However, other callers disagree with the idea of allowing Irish citizens living abroad to vote in Irish elections. They argue that voting should be reserved for residents who are directly impacted by the decisions made by the government. Allowing postal votes for Irish citizens abroad could dilute the voices of those who actually live in Ireland.

The question of whether Irish citizens living abroad should have the right to vote in Irish elections is a complex issue with passionate arguments on both sides. While some believe that voting rights should extend to all Irish citizens, regardless of where they live, others argue that the right to vote should be reserved for those directly affected by the decisions of the Irish government. As Ireland continues to grapple with this question, it's essential to consider the diverse perspectives and implications of such a decision.

In this episode, Niall looks into the question: Is it time for rank and file Gardaí on the street to be armed?

Recent reports suggest an increase in violent crime, with gangs reportedly using high-powered weapons. Niall explores whether arming the rank and file Gardaí is the right response to this growing threat.

Caller Perspectives:

Some callers argue that it's time to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They believe that with the rise in violent crime and reports of criminal gangs using high-powered weapons, police officers need to be adequately equipped to protect themselves and the public. Arming the Gardaí would help deter criminals and ensure public safety.

However, other callers disagree with the proposal to arm the rank and file Gardaí on the street. They argue that while violent crime is a serious issue, arming police officers could escalate tensions and lead to more violence. Instead, they suggest exploring other solutions such as increased community policing and better intelligence-gathering.

Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complex nature of responding to rising gang violence.need to address the root causes of crime rather than just responding with more force. They don't think arming the rank and file Garda is the right solution. While it's important to address the increase in violent crime, arming all police officers could have unintended consequences. It could escalate situations and increase the risk of unnecessary violence. Instead, we should focus on improving community relations and investing in measures to prevent crime before it happens.

In this episode, Niall tackles the question: Should manual laborers be paid the same as skilled workers?

Some callers argue that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They emphasize that manual laborers make significant contributions to projects and without their hard work, skilled workers wouldn't be able to do their jobs effectively. It's crucial to recognize the value of all workers and pay them fairly for their contributions.

However, other callers disagree with the idea that manual laborers should be paid the same as skilled workers. They believe that skilled workers have invested time and effort into developing their expertise and should be compensated accordingly. Paying manual laborers the same as skilled workers could undermine the value of specialized skills and discourage people from pursuing careers in skilled trades.

Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the complexities of determining fair wages for different types of work.

In this episode, Niall addresses a pressing question: Would you allow your child to leave school for a trade?

The topic arises from an email sent in by a listener, Pauline, who is torn between her son's passion for working with his hands and her concerns about his future without completing his Leaving Cert.

Pauline's son, 16, has struggled academically but shows real talent and interest in working with his father in the family garage. While Pauline is worried about her son's future without a Leaving Cert qualification, her husband sees an opportunity for their son to start an apprenticeship and work full-time in the family business.

Niall opens up the lines to callers to hear their opinions on this dilemma.

Some callers completely understand Pauline's dilemma and believe her son's passion and talent lie in working with his hands. They argue that traditional education isn't the right path for everyone and suggest that Pauline should support her son's interest in pursuing a trade.

However, other callers sympathize with Pauline's concerns about her son's future. They believe it's important for him to complete his Leaving Cert before making any decisions about his career.

Niall reflects on the diverse perspectives shared by callers and the challenges faced by parents like Pauline in guiding their children's education and career choices.

In this episode, Niall covers the May Bank Holiday protest, asking participants why they are attending and what their concerns are.

The protest comes in response to the emergence of a new migrant "tent city" along the banks of the Grand Canal in Dublin. Despite government assurances that such encampments would not be tolerated, the number of tents has risen, sparking frustration and calls for action.

While the protest is primarily focused on the immigration crisis, many participants are also protesting against broader government failures, including housing, healthcare, and the cost of living. Some see the protest as an opportunity to demand better solutions and hold political leaders accountable.

On the other hand, there are counter-protests organized by groups who believe that the national protest is primarily about immigration and label it as a far-right demonstration.

Niall opens up the lines to callers to discuss their reasons for attending the protest or their concerns if they are not participating. Those involved in the counter-protest are also invited to share their perspective.

Some callers express their solidarity with those affected by the immigration crisis and emphasize the need to demand better solutions from the government. They highlight that the protest is not just about immigration but also about holding leaders accountable for failures in housing, healthcare, and the cost of living.

The protest highlights the public's concerns regarding the immigration crisis and broader issues of government accountability. It's a significant moment for citizens to voice their frustrations and demand meaningful change.

In this episode, Niall explores whether the right to complain starts at the polls. With the upcoming local and European elections in Ireland, voter turnout is a critical issue.

Many people choose not to vote due to their disappointment with the political system and the failure of elected representatives to fulfill their promises. Some believe that voting won't make a difference, while others feel uninformed about the issues and candidates.

However, there are those who emphasize the importance of voting. They argue that if we want change, we need to use our voice and cast our ballots. Low voter turnout only strengthens the status quo, and holding our representatives accountable through voting is essential for a functioning democracy.

On the other hand, some callers suggest that while voting is important, it's not the only way to participate in democracy. They believe that voter apathy stems from a broader disillusionment with the political system and advocate for other forms of civic participation, such as community organizing and activism.

The discussion highlights the complexities surrounding voter turnout and civic engagement. While some emphasize the importance of voting as a fundamental right in a democracy, others point to deeper issues that contribute to voter apathy. As the elections approach, it's essential to consider how to address these issues and encourage broader civic participation.

In this episode, Niall looks into the contentious issue of whether politicians should be prosecuted for lying. The discussion arises from a news story from Wales, where members of the Senedd, the Welsh parliament, are considering legislation to criminalize lying by politicians.

Adam Price, former leader of Plaid Cymru and a leading proponent of the legislation, argues that in a world of post-truth politics, it's vital to hold politicians accountable for their lies. The proposed law would make it illegal for politicians to wilfully mislead the parliament or the public.

Some callers believe it's about time we held politicians accountable for their lies. They argue that lying by politicians undermines trust in the political system and that criminalizing lying would help restore faith in democracy.

However, others express concerns about the potential chilling effect on free speech and political debate. They worry that criminalizing lying could deter politicians from speaking out on important issues for fear of prosecution.

While it's important for politicians to be honest and transparent, making lying a criminal offence could be difficult to enforce and could lead to a slippery slope of censorship. Instead of criminalizing lying, these callers suggest focusing on holding politicians accountable through other means, such as fact-checking and public scrutiny.

The discussion on whether politicians should be prosecuted for lying revealed diverse perspectives on the complex issue. While some callers emphasized the importance of holding politicians accountable for their lies, others expressed concerns about the potential impact on free speech and political debate. As the debate continues, finding a balance between accountability and freedom of expression remains essential.

In this episode, Niall looks into the potential impact of the Rwanda bill on Ireland. The controversial UK legislation aims to deter asylum seekers by sending them to Rwanda. Tánaiste Micheál Martin suggests that the policy is already driving asylum seekers across the Border from Northern Ireland to the Republic.

Some callers think Ireland has become a dumping ground for immigrants, and the Rwanda bill will only exacerbate the problem. We've already taken in too many immigrants, and our country is struggling to cope. There's a real risk that crime rates will increase and tensions will rise if we continue to accept more immigrants. We need to put the needs of our own citizens first and focus on addressing the issues we're facing at home before we consider taking in more immigrants. Ireland is already struggling to accommodate the immigrants we have, and we simply don't have the resources or infrastructure to take in more. Our social services are overstretched, and there's a risk that our communities will suffer as a result. We need to prioritize the needs of our own citizens before considering taking in more immigrants.

Others believe that the Rwanda bill is a necessary step to address illegal immigration. They argue that Ireland cannot continue to absorb large numbers of asylum seekers without facing serious social and economic consequences. The government needs to take action to protect our borders and ensure the safety and security of our citizens. While it's important to show compassion for those in need, we cannot ignore the impact that uncontrolled immigration is having on our country. The Rwanda bill may be controversial, but it's necessary to protect Ireland's interests and ensure that our immigration system is fair and effective.

Niall wraps up the discussion, urging listeners to consider the implications of the Rwanda bill and the impact it may have on Ireland.

UK Immigration Barrister, Paul Turner

Niall was told today that 'If we become a transit country for migrants... then the numbers I don't believe will go down.' UK Immigration Barrister, Paul Turner, on the whether the Prime Minister is celebrating Rwanda plan success too early or not.

Paul went on to tell Niall Boylan that he has heard that legal representatives for illegal migrants in the UK are telling their clients to go to Ireland to avid deportation.

This spells disaster for Ireland and controlling immigration.