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Stormont Sources

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 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.

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S1 · E72
Thursday · 44 min
Budget Crisis, Housing & Election Politics
Stormont is back but Northern Ireland’s political problems haven’t gone away. In this episode of Stormont Sources the team look at the first week back at the Northern Ireland Assembly after the nine-week summer recess. With the next Assembly and local government elections approaching, the political temperature is already rising. Ministers and MLAs have been clashing in the chamber, controversial legislation is coming forward and the Executive is still without an agreed budget six months into the financial year. Topics discussed: -The return of MLAs to the Assembly chamber and the rise of "Punch and Judy" election politics. -Key legislation watch: Flags & Emblems Bill, Conversion Practices Bill, and the controversial Harbours Bill. -Gordon Lyons' surprise engagement with arts protesters outside Stormont. -Is the Executive stuck? Why nothing major may get passed before the upcoming elections. -The £1B budget deficit crisis, Chris Heaton-Harris / UK Treasury stance, and structural spending challenges in Health and Education. -Why Northern Ireland's 5-day health model and hospital assets need urgent reform. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E71
September 3 · 41 min
Stormont, Hospital Closures & Parades Commission: Claire Sugden Interview | Stormont Sources
Claire Sugden joins Stormont Sources to discuss the future of Northern Ireland politics ahead of the 2027 Assembly election. The independent MLA for East Londonderry speaks candidly about her political future, the challenges facing Stormont and whether the Executive will survive until the next Assembly election. Claire also discusses the ongoing Causeway Hospital emergency surgery controversy, her concerns about the future of A&E services, and what she says she has been hearing from senior medical staff. Topics discussed: -Claire Sugden's future as an independent MLA -The 2027 Northern Ireland Assembly election -Could Stormont collapse before the election? -Causeway Hospital and emergency general surgery -The future of A&E services at Causeway -The Parades Commission controversy -Drumcree and the legacy of the Troubles -DUP, UUP and TUV competition -Claire Sugden and Alliance -A possible Westminster run -The future of Northern Ireland's hospitals -The changing unionist vote Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E70
August 27 · 54 min
Drumcree: What it Means for the DUP, Sinn Féin & the Parades Commission
In this episode of Stormont Sources, David, Tim and Michael dissect a major High Court ruling. The court has quashed the decision by the Parades Commission regarding the annual Drumcree parade outside Portadown. The team breaks down what actually happened in court, whether this represents a "seismic" legal shift or an administrative blunder, and what it means for Northern Irish politics ahead of upcoming elections. Later in the episode, the team answer your questions, tackling everything from advice for young people looking to get into politics and which Executive department they would choose, to the politicians and public figures they’d most like to have on the podcast. Topics discussed: - High Court Quashes Drumcree Parades Commission Decision - Legal Judgment & Administrative Failures - "Quangoland" & How the Parades Commission Made Decisions - Media Coverage, Slugger O'Toole, & Social Media Evidence - Political Fallout & Culture Wars - Has Northern Ireland Changed Since 1999? - Is a Parade Down Garvaghy Road Good for Society? - Listeners Questions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E69
August 20 · 51 min
UUP Crisis, DUP Legal Troubles, & Alliance Backlash | Stormont Sources Podcast
The political "silly season" in Northern Ireland has exploded with major developments across the Executive. In this episode of Stormont Sources, host David McCann sits down with regulars Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan to break down the descending crises facing Northern Ireland’s key political parties. Following the shock resignation of UUP Health Minister Mike Nesbitt, the panel analyses who Jon Burrows might pick as his successor. From Robbie Butler to Steve Aiken and whether the Executive is heading toward total gridlock on health reform before the May elections. Later in the episode, the team explores the optics of the DUP's handling of MP Jim Shannon’s court summons, and examines the political backlash facing Alliance Minister Andrew Muir over the Fermanagh cattle cull controversy. Topics discussed: -Alliance, DUP, and the UUP Health Crisis -Mike Nesbitt Resigns: What Went Wrong Between Nesbitt & Jon Burrows? - Old Politics vs. New Politics: Reforming NI’s Healthcare System - Civil Servants vs. Political Accountability in the Department of Health - Health Service Freeze: Will any healthcare reform happen before May? - Who is the next Health Minister? Predicting John Burroughs' choice - DUP & Jim Shannon: Legal nuance vs. public perception - Alliance Party in the Firing Line: Andrew Muir & the cattle cull debate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E68
August 13 · 1 hr 10 min
The Disconnect | Live from Derry
Are Stormont's days numbered? Recorded live at the Derry Féile, the Stormont Sources team take the podcast on the road to gauge real-world reactions from the Northwest. With no budget passed, party conferences approaching, and an assembly election on the horizon, we discuss the collapse of the devolution, why Derry voters feel left behind by Belfast-centric politics and if unionism could lose its only seat in Northern Ireland's most marginal constituency? Topics discussed -Stormont on the Brink -The Derry & Northwest Disconnect -Systemic Failure vs. Party Gridlock -Shifting Polling & Voter Fatigue -The High-Stakes Battle for Foyle -Constitutional Realities & Border Poll Debates **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E67
August 6 · 35 min
"Tighten your nuts!" Fleadh Cheoil Success & The New Secretary of State
Are the wheels coming off the Stormont institutions? In this episode of Stormont Sources, David McCann and Tim Cairns break down the latest high-stakes political clash between Sinn Féin and the DUP. Following warnings from Sinn Féin’s Conor Murphy that reform is urgently needed, DUP Leader Gavin Robinson offered a fiery and memorable response: "Tighten your nuts!" We dive into whether Stormont can survive until the next election, the political optics of Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in Belfast, recent polling shifts, and how new Secretary of State Chris Bryant performed during his first media outing. Topics Discussed: - Fleadh Cheoil Highlights - Wheels Coming Off" vs. "Tighten Your Nuts": Murphy & Robinson Clash - DUP vs. Sinn Féin Polling Drops & Political Pressure - Will Stormont Collapse Before the Next Election? - Sinn Féin’s Strategy & Executive Department Choices - New Secretary of State Chris Bryant: "Checklist, Not Checkbook" Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E66
July 30 · 45 min
Doug Beattie: Leaving the UUP, Toxic Politics & Running as an Independent
Doug Beattie reflects on his dramatic exit from the UUP, addressing internal party friction, historic tweet controversies, and what he describes as a "toxic environment" prior to his departure. Now charting his path as an Independent Unionist, Beattie looks back at his 13 years in politics, from guarding Spandau Prison and Cruise Missiles in his military days, to leading the UUP, representing the party at royal milestones, and navigating party selection battles. He opens up about his leadership decisions, whether the UUP is a party that can actually be led, and his plans to contest the upcoming Assembly and Council elections. Topics discussed: • Doug Beattie's departure from the UUP • Internal party culture • The resignation controversy • A "Union of People" vision • Electoral prospects in Upper Bann • Future election plans • Working with other independents Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E65
July 26 · 1 hr
Live on Downing Street | Andy Burnham Becomes PM
Andy Burnham has officially become the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, marking the country’s 7th PM since 2016. Join host Calum Macdonald live from Downing Street on this special episode of The Sources Podcasts as we break down every moment of this historic handover of power. From Keir Starmer’s departure speech to Andy Burnham’s note-free address to the nation, we cover the immediate reactions, political strategy, and shock Cabinet appointments shaping the new UK government. In this episode: - Keir Starmer’s final speech and exit to Buckingham Palace. - Andy Burnham’s vision: Ending rough sleeping, re-industrialisation, and cost-of-living relief. - Expert analysis with Patrick Maguire (The Times), Cathy Newman (Times Radio/Sky News), Anna Mikhailova (Times Radio), Peter Cardwell (Talk), Alexander Brown (Daily Mirror), Stefan Boscia (The Times), Andrew Quinn (The Scotsman), and Kate Ferguson (Sun on Sunday). - Breaking Cabinet Announcements: John Healey as Chancellor, Ed Miliband as Foreign Secretary, Shabana Mahmood as Home Secretary, and Louise Haigh as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. 💬 What do you think of Andy Burnham's new Cabinet? Will his 10-year plan stabilise UK politics? Let us know 🔔 Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more expert UK political analysis from The Sources Podcast network! #AndyBurnham #KeirStarmer #UKPolitics #DowningStreet #Number10 #BritishPolitics #LabourParty #UKPrimeMinister #TheSourcesPodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E64
July 23 · 54 min
Can The Green Party Surge in Northern Ireland? | Mal O'Hara on Alliance, Pride & The Border
Are Northern Ireland's main executive parties failing on LGBTQ+ equality and environmental action? In this episode of Stormont Sources, David McCann, Tim Kearns, and Michael McKernan sit down with Green Party NI Leader Mal O'Hara for an unfiltered deep-dive into Northern Ireland politics. Are Northern Ireland's main executive parties failing on LGBTQ+ equality and environmental action? Topics discussed: • Why Stormont executive parties were banned from marching in Belfast Pride. • Recent polling numbers indicating a potential Green Party comeback. • Why the NI Greens refuse to take a binary side on the Border Poll / Constitutional question. • Mal O'Hara’s direct pitch to former DUP and Alliance voters. • A sharp critique of Alliance ministers on Lough Neagh, Justice reform, and the Programme for Government. **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E63
July 16 · 46 min
Alliance Party Controversies, Linfield Flags & The Stormont Mid-Year Report Card
In this episode, David McCann, Tim Cairns, and Michael McKernan dive headfirst into a turbulent week for the Alliance Party. Was a retracted graphic featuring a tattered Linfield FC really a big deal? And why did Sorcha Eastwood's attendance at a 12th July bonfire cause such a social media stir? We ask where the Alliance Party is trying to get to as a political organisation. Plus, we are halfway through the political year! The team hands out report cards for Stormont’s ministers and party leaders. Who is quietly getting a grip on their department, who is facing overwhelming adversity, and why does the Executive still not have an agreed budget? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E62
July 9 · 58 min
Why is Westminster Ignoring the DUP Scandal? | Sinn Féin’s Plan for Irish Unity
Why is the downfall of former DUP leader and convicted child rapist Jeffrey Donaldson barely registering at Westminster? In this week's episode of Stormont Sources, regular hosts Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan tackle the heavy blindspots in the UK national press. First, we are joined by Westminster insider Ollie Cole (Senedd Sources host) to dissect why stories about major UK politicians getting drunk grab massive national headlines, while a systemic crisis inside the corridors of power goes largely uncovered across the water. We also dive into the internal pressure mounting on the DUP's Gavin Robinson and Emma Little-Pengelly as a "kiss-and-tell" culture descends on the party. Then, former Sinn Féin Finance Minister and current Senator Conor Murphy joins the podcast to break down the second reading of Mary Lou McDonald's Planning for Constitutional Change Bill. Following its defeat in the Dáil, we ask the tough questions: Is the Irish unity debate actually a disunity debate? Finally, we tackle the growing crisis surrounding Casement Park. With rumours of a massive downsizing to the Belfast stadium, Michael pitches a radical alternative site at Junction 10 of the M1 (Silverwood). Will the GAA stick to making Belfast the sports capital of Ulster, or is it time to head back to the drawing board? **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E61
July 2 · 56 min
"A Culture of Fear" - the DUP’s Future After Jeffrey Donaldson Conviction
The fallout from Jeffrey Donaldson’s conviction continues to rock the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). In this week’s episode of Stormont Sources, David McCann, Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan, are joined by former DUP Special Advisor David Graham, to dissect the internal crisis. Is this the end of the road for the leading party of unionism, or can Gavin Robinson steady the ship amidst allegations of a "culture of fear" and major media management failures? In the second half of the episode, we pivot to a massive economic warning for Northern Ireland. Andrew Webb from OCO Global joins the podcast to break down a stark new report from the Wastewater Infrastructure Group. Without urgent action and a potential wastewater levy, inaction on NI's Victorian-era sewage network could cost the economy a staggering £10.9 billion by 2040 and stall the construction of 55,000 homes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E60
June 25 · 39 min
Is a New Ireland Inevitable?
In this episode of Stormont & Sources, David McCann and former SPADs Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan dive into a massive week in British and Irish politics. First, the team reacts to the shocking news from Westminster: the resignation of Prime Minister Keir Starmer less than two years into his term. What does this mean for the future of the Labour government, and will Andy Burnham be the next Prime Minister? Then, SDLP Leader and MP for South Belfast and Mid Down, Claire Hanna, joins the podcast. She discusses the SDLP’s major event exploring the future of these islands and preparing for potential constitutional change. We challenge her on what this conversation means for unionists, the reality of persuading voters in the Republic of Ireland, and why the SDLP believes Northern Ireland must work in the here-and-now while keeping an eye on the horizon. Finally, the guys debate cross-border infrastructure, the Stormont budget crisis, and make some bold predictions for Scotland's big football match... 💬 Have your say: What are your thoughts on Keir Starmer's resignation? Is the conversation around a New Ireland moving too fast, or is it prudent planning? 📱 WhatsApp us: 0334046507 (Start your message with the word "Stormont") 📧 Email us: hello@stormontsources.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E59
June 22 · 33 min
Jeffrey Donaldson Guilty
The former leader of the DUP and Lagan Valley MP, Jeffrey Donaldson, has been found guilty of all 18 historical sex abuse charges, including rape, by a jury at Newry Crown Court. In this special episode of the Stormont Sources podcast, hosts David McCann and Tim Cairns are joined by Alison Morris, Crime Correspondent for the Belfast Telegraph. Alison was one of only 10 journalists allowed inside Court throughout the four-week trial. She describes the courtroom drama, the "velvet glove assassin" cross-examination by the prosecution, the secret bugging of Donaldson’s car, and the historic "trial of facts" involving his wife, Eleanor Donaldson. We also look at the massive political fallout for the DUP and the wider implications across Northern Ireland politics. If you find this episode insightful, please consider liking, subscribing, and sharing to help support independent political analysis in Northern Ireland. 📌 SUPPORT SERVICES & RESOURCES: If you or someone you know has been impacted by historical sexual abuse or any of the themes discussed in this podcast, please reach out for support: • Nexus NI: https://nexusni.org/ • Women's Aid NI: https://www.womensaidni.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E58
June 18 · 50 min
Why Businesses Have Lost Faith in Stormont
From the gridlock on major infrastructure projects like the A5 and wastewater planning to the political infighting over the Good Jobs Bill and the biomethane transition, we ask: how do we shift the focus from rigid bureaucratic process to actual economic outcomes? In this episode of Stormont Sources, host David McCann is joined by regulars Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan to talk to the former Executive Minister and Managing Director of Confluence Consulting, Simon Hamilton. We also join the debate to reflect on how today's mandatory coalition compares to the "glory days" of shared endeavor. Topics covered in this episode: -The Confluence Consulting Report -Why NI Business Leaders Have Lost Faith in Devolution -Inward Investment vs. The Civil Service Confidence Crisis -Process vs. Outcome: Why Stormont Moves So Slowly -The 1% Delivery Stat: Why Major Infrastructure Has Ground to a Halt -The Good Jobs Bill: Why Employers Are Worried -The Biomethane & Energy Transition Roadblocks **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E57
June 11 · 45 min
DUP & Alliance Face Off and the Good Jobs Bill Crisis
This week, the panel breaks down the massive public fallout over the Scarva Gaza march protests and the growing executive gridlock surrounding the "Good Jobs" Employment Rights Bill. As summer approaches, localised flashpoints are exposing deep rifts within Stormont. Did DUP MP Carla Lockhart provide crucial leadership on the ground at Scarva bridge to prevent a volatile situation from escalating, or are unionist politicians simply "damned if they do, damned if they don't" by political rivals? The team also turns their attention to the legislative logjam inside the Executive. With Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald facing intense pressure from the DUP to "split the bill," the panel debates whether the long-awaited Good Jobs Bill is effectively dead or if a compromise can be reached to save its most popular worker provisions. Topics Covered: -The Scarva Gaza March Clashes & Counter-Protests -Political Fallout and Leadership of DUP MP Carla Lockhart -The "Summer Hate Fest" & Rising Summer Tensions -The Stalled Good Jobs Bill in the Executive **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E56
June 3 · 57 min
Doug Beattie Resigns, Sinn Féin Changes Course... plus Pat Sheehan
Sinn Féin has officially launched its proposals to radically reform the Northern Ireland Assembly. Once the biggest skeptics of changing the rules, why has the party firmly embraced reform now? In this episode of Stormont Sources we sit down with Sinn Féin MLA and Deputy Chair of the Assembly and Executive Review Committee, Pat Sheehan, to dive deep into their 6 new proposals—including ending mutual vetoes on Executive formation, changing how the Speaker is elected, and handing greater fiscal powers over to Stormont. Is this a genuine path forward, or is the DUP being politically isolated? Topics covered: Doug Beattie Resigns From the UUP Sinn Féin’s Journey to Reforming the Assembly Is Mary Lou McDonald Blaming the DUP for Lack of Delivery? The 6 Reform Proposals: Vetoes, Speakers, & the Justice Minister Curbing the Power of the Stormont Speaker Explained Should Stormont Have Income Tax Powers Like Scotland? The "Other" Designation Problem: Are Some Votes Worth Less? Paul Givan vs. Pat Sheehan: The School Inspection Bill War The Restrictive Practices Controversy & The Uniforms Bill Will the Legislation Pass? **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E55
May 28 · 47 min
UUP Chaos Deepens: Is Doug Beattie Heading For The Exit Door?
Is the Ulster Unionist Party on the verge of a total meltdown in Upper Bann? In this week's edition of Stormont Sources, Northern Ireland’s most-listened-to political panel dives headfirst into the growing internal warfare ripping through the UUP. Host David McCann is joined by former DUP Special Advisor Tim Cairns and former SDLP Special Advisor Michael McKernan to break down the shock resignation of Councillor Kate Evans, the public clash between leader John Burrows and Doug Beattie over the criminal age of responsibility amendment, and rumors that Beattie may be preparing to exit the party. Topics Covered Internal Party Warfare and Leaks in Upper Bann The Resignation of Councillor Kate Evans The Policy Clash Over the Criminal Age of Responsibility Doug Beattie's Electoral Future as an Independent Sinn Féin’s By-Election Vote Collapse The Political "Pincer Movement" Crushing Mary Lou McDonald **** Click stormontsources.com to listen and for all of our episodes 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.
S1 · E54
May 21 · 45 min
Colum Eastwood DebatesIrish Unity
In this episode of Stormont Sources, we sit down with Foyle MP and former SDLP leader Colum Eastwood to look back at the chaotic "Vote Colum, Get Mike" era, his testy private showdown with Martin McGuinness, and why he believes the Northern Ireland Assembly is failing to deliver for the public. Topics covered in this episode: The 10-Year Anniversary of Official Stormont Opposition (2016) Colum Eastwood’s Showdown with Martin McGuinness The Reality of Being a Smaller Party in Government "Vote Colum, Get Mike" and UUP Politics Why Stormont is a "Toy Town Parliament" The Future of Irish Unity The Irish Government's Role Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 · E53
May 16 · 21 min
A-Levels Special
On this special edition of the Stormont Sources podcast, David McCann, Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan take at look ahead to this year's politics A-Level and provide their advice on how to do well. You can read Tim's model essay answer here: https://stormontsources.com/exams Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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