The BelTel

Black Widow Part 2: The trial of Catherine Nevin and the media sensation that followed

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 23:04:00 GMT

30 years on from the violent killing of publican Tom Nevin, part two of this special podcast looks at how Nevin's wife, Catherine Nevin, emerged as the prime suspect; the murder trial and media blitz that followed; and why Ireland’s ‘Black Widow’ still fascinates us to this day.

Host: Fionnán Sheahan

Guest: Mary Wilson

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Black Widow Part 1: The murder of Tom Nevin and one of Ireland’s most notorious criminal cases

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 23:05:00 GMT

Thirty years ago, Wicklow publican Tom Nevin was shot dead as he counted the takings following a busy day at Jack White’s Inn. Initially, the incident appeared to be a robbery gone wrong, but grieving wife Catherine Nevin would eventually emerge as the prime suspect and later come to be known as ‘The Black Widow’.

On the first of a two-part special, we look back at how one of Ireland’s most famous criminals came into the spotlight.

Host: Fionnán Sheahan

Guest: Mary Wilson

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Roger Casement: Protestant British hero who became a 'rebel and a traitor'

Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Roger Casement was hanged in August 1916 for treason against the Crown. Formerly Sir Roger, his assistance to Germany during the First World Ward was undeniable and from a British point of view he was a traitor.

From from an Irish nationalist point of view, he was a rebel and a hero who now took his place in history among the martyrs of republicanism and the leader of the 1916 Rising.

No knight of the realm had faced treason charges for centuries, let alone be executed. His story was without precedent.

A Protestant Anglo-Irish man who had been a loyal servant of the British empire, he had exposed horrific abuses of indigenous people in Africa and South America. But he then came to believe Ireland urgently needed to free itself of Britain.

Who was this complex individual and how did he end up being killed by the state he had served?

Casement is a subject of a new book – A Rebel And A Traitor – by Rory Carroll, the Guardian's Ireland correspondent.

He joined Sam McBride on the BelTel.

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‘Among Communists’: Belfast poet, Sinéad Morrisey tells her family and political story

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 00:00:00 GMT

Belfast poet, Sinéad Morrisey, was brought up in a Communist family. Hers was a childhood lived in the little world created by the party, a world apart from others and from the Troubles.

It involved smoke-filled rooms, endless meetings, and dreams of a future utopia – coupled with a belief that east of the Iron Curtain, there were people already living in it.

The fall of Communism in the eastern block was more than an historical event for her family – it was the end of a dream and of a way of life.

Sinéad Morrisey’s new memoir is called ‘Among Communists’. She joined Ciarán Dunbar to explain the book and her story.

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Noah Donohoe: Witness denies phoning cops over teen’s laptop

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:25:07 GMT

Members of the jury in the Noah Donohoe inquest have been asked to indicate their availability for the month of May.

The inquest officially began on the 19th of January and was expected to finish up in mid-March.

Fourteen-year-old Noah’s body was discovered in north Belfast on the 27 of June 2020 - six days after he had gone missing.

This week an anonymous witness at the inquest denied being the caller who informed police that Daryl Paul had been trying to sell Noah Donohoe’s laptop.

Liam Tunney has been covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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‘Boston Tapes’ Troubles archive ‘closed’ but not forgotten

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 23:05:00 GMT

It was supposed to be an oral record of the Troubles, made by the paramilitaries, and initially the ‘Boston Tapes’ project seemed like a really good idea, albeit one which would include descriptions of violence and terror.

The concept was simple – former paramilitaries would be interviewed, the tapes would then be kept in storage, and their stories only revealed after the interviewee’s deaths.

But it became clear that the scheme was flawed and that the recordings were not as secret as participants assumed.

Now the Belfast Telegraph can reveal that the Boston College tapes archive has been formally closed - and will remain so for 75 years from when it was first created

What was the Boston Tapes project?
What went wrong?
And why have the records been sealed?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter, Andrew Madden.

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Stephen McCullagh: What we couldn't report while Natalie McNally murder trial was ongoing

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 13:26:44 GMT

Murderer Stephen McCullagh has been aptly described as “a monster hiding in plain sight”.

A week on from his conviction there has been a lot of reaction to the the nerd-culture YouTuber’s conviction of murdering Natalie McNally.

He denied the killing, but the jury unanimously found him guilty in a matter of hours. He has yet to be given his tariff, but Natalie’s family says he should never be let out.

They say he is simply “too dangerous to let out on the street”.

Meanwhile, the Sunday Life has revealed that a film made by McCullagh as a student chillingly foretold the murder and how he pretended to be one of our journalists to find out what evidence the cops had on him.

The Sunday Life’s Angela Davison joins Ciarán Dunbar with some of the stories which could not be told whilst the trial was ongoing and what has emerged since McCullagh’s conviction.

This podcast was amended at 10:00 am on Monday 30th March in order to correct an error. A previous version mentioned in the podcast intro that 'McNally' made a video whilst a student, when it should have said 'McCullagh' made a video as a student.

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Noah Donohoe: Jury hears ninth week of evidence

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 17:58:28 GMT

The jury at the inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe has now heard nine weeks of evidence – the process could last until May.

This week they heard more on how police dealt with CCTV footage of the missing teenager and how his school books were found in a Belfast flat.

A police officer also revealed that he was briefed before he spoke to the inquest.

Liam Tunney is covering the Noah Donohoe inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Stormont’s extreme censorship of Famine remarks – and how we unravelled it

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

‘How I stumbled on Stormont’s new policy of extreme censorship - which means we’ll understand NI’s past less fully’.

That was the stark headline on a recent comment piece from my colleague Sam McBride – the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor.

He discovered the unannounced policy whilst exploring declassified files in London - a policy which has been used to cover-up official attitudes to the Famine.

Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar to explain the story behind the headline.

Stormont’s extreme censorship of Famine remarks – and how we unravelled it

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Youtuber Stephen McCullagh guilty of murdering of Natalie McNally

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:51:33 GMT

Stephen McCullagh has been found guilty of murdering Lurgan woman Natalie McNally.

The jury unanimously convicted 36-year-old McCullagh, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, of killing the 32-year-old mother to be in December 2022.

The four-week trial heard how McCullagh murdered Ms McNally after setting up a “false alibi” that he was livestreaming a video gaming session on YouTube.

McCullagh has been given a life-sentence.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris, who was following the trial in court.

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Rory O’Connor: The Anti-Treaty IRA leader executed by his former friends

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

IRA leader Rory O’Connor was once a close comrade of fellow republican Michael Collins and Kevin O’Higgins - indeed he was O’Higgins best man.

But just over a year later after the wedding, O’Higgins signed his friend’s death warrant.

O’Connor’s execution along with Liam Mellows, Dick Barrett and Joe McKelvey, added to the bitterness of Ireland’s civil war and made O’Connor a republican martyr, albeit a forgotten one.

In ‘To defend the Republic’, the first biography of O’Connor’s life, historian Gerard Shannon tells the story of this enigmatic IRA figure.

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Inside the Gerry Adams landmark £1 IRA court case

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:00:00 GMT

UPDATE: Victims drop High Court claim against Gerry Adams over IRA bombings

For decades, Gerry Adams has denied being a member of the Provisional IRA. Now, for the first time, that claim is being challenged in an English courtroom. Three men, all victims of separate IRA bombings, have taken civil action against the former Sinn Féin leader for the symbolic sum of £1 in damages.

Host: Tessa Fleming, Guests: Kurtis Reid, John Downing.

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Stephen McCullagh trial: Prosecution says accused “lied and lied again”, defence says evidence points to “another killer”

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 18:26:14 GMT

The man accused of murdering Natalie McNally “lied and lied again”, a barrister has told Belfast Crown Court.

Delivering his closing statement in the case, prosecuting barrister Charles MacCreanor KC reminded the jury that the accused Stephen McCullagh had chosen not to give evidence to his trial.

However, defence barrister John Kearney KC said the case against Stephen McCullagh is “dependent upon circumstantial evidence”.

There are “troubling” aspects of the prosecution case against the man accused of murdering Natalie McNally that point “towards some other killer”, he said.

36-year-old McCullagh denies killing Natalie McNally (32), who was found dead at her home in Lurgan on December 18, 2022.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Crime Correspondent Allison Morris is covering the case.

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Noah Donohoe: No evidence of drugs in teen’s system at the time of death, witness says

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 17:56:47 GMT

A witness says the unusual behaviour exhibited by Noah Donohoe prior to his disappearance could be associated with synthetic cannabinoids or a mental health condition.

The jury at the inquest into the teenager’s death heard evidence from the toxicologists on Wednesday.

Noah’s body was discovered in north Belfast on 27 June2020 - six days after the St Malachy’s College student went missing.

The inquest is now in its eighth week of hearing evidence. Liam Tunney has been covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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What sort of St Patrick's Day will Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin have in Donald Trump's White House?

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

This time last year, Irish Taoiseach Micheál Martin was grasping an American-flag emblazoned short straw, playing second fiddle to Conor McGregor as our disgraced UFC representative took the St Patrick’s Day podium.

Now that the Taoiseach has been restored to March 17 parity, he has one hell of a job on his hands. What kind of reception awaits him in Donald Trump’s Oval Office next week?

Host: Kevin Doyle

Guest: Mary Regan

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'The Child Snatcher': Who was serial killer Robert Black?

Sat, 14 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Serial killer Robert Black is now the subject of Netflix documentary 'Manhunt: The Child Snatcher'. Black was a monster, an abuser and murder of little girls - he was the child snatcher that all parents feared.

His first murder victim we can be certain of was nine-year-old Co Antrim child Jennifer Cardy on 12 August 1981.

He was convicted of killing four young girls but is suspected of abusing and murdering many, many more.

Black died in Maghaberry Prison near Belfast in January 2016. His body was cremated, and his ashes thrown into the sea.

Professor Craig Jackson is Professor of Occupational Health Psychology in the Department of Psychology at Birmingham City University. He tells Ciarán Dunbar what makes a serial killer and why we are so interested in them.

This podcast was originally released in January 2023.

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Musk’s AI Grokipedia makes a mess of NI history

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Elon Musk has built an encyclopedia which contains countless errors about Northern Ireland and its history.

Grokipedia, which was launched in October last year, now has more than six million AI generated articles, but many articles related to Northern Ireland contain major mistakes or are highly misleading.

The AI encyclopedia says that Ian Paisleys paramilitary Third Force was operating under Crown authority, it says murder victims the Reavey brothers were linked to the IRA, and that the Bloody Sunday massacre was instigated by the IRA, among many other errors.

Sam McBride joined Olivia Peden.

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Stephen McCullagh Trial: Court outbursts as witness denies murdering Natalie McNally

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 18:27:01 GMT

An ex-partner of Natalie McNally has told a court that he did not kill the Co Armagh woman.

Ms McNally, 32, was 15 weeks pregnant when she was killed at her home in Lurgan on December 18 2022.

On his third and final day of evidence, the witness shouted “you killed her” in an angry courtroom outburst at Stephen McCullagh, who stands accused of her murder.

Her partner, Stephen McCullagh, 36, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, denies the murder charge.

Allison Morris is covering the case for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Stephen McCullagh Trial: Natalie McNally’s ex-boyfriend arrested last week ‘over threats to kill woman’

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:58:21 GMT

A former partner of Natalie McNally was arrested last week on suspicion of making threats to kill a woman he had been seeing at the time of Ms McNally’s death, court has heard. The anonymous ex-boyfriend of Ms McNally told the court he reset his phone to factory settings after learning detectives were at his home in connection with the murder investigation, claiming he did so because he had cannabis in his home. Yesterday while giving evidence after he looked at murder accused Stephen McCullagh and shouted “you killed her”.

Allison Morris was in court.

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Noah Donohoe: Pathologists agree teenager’s cause of death was drowning with ‘no indication’ of assault

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:28:14 GMT

Pathologists at the inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe have agreed that his cause of death was drowning, with no indication of assault. All three pathologists agreed there was “no positive evidence” of toxicological contribution to Noah’s death, but this could not be excluded because of the limitations on toxicological analysis. Liam Tunney joins Olivia Peden.

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Desmond Boomer: The mystery of Malta plane accident, and the Belfast Engineer who never came home

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

In the early hours of December 3, 1995, a small aircraft vanished over the Mediterranean. On board was Belfast-born engineer Desi Boomer, travelling home from Libya’s oil fields to Northern Ireland via Malta. Instead of welcoming him home, Desi’s wife Mandy received a visit from two RUC officers telling her the plane had disappeared.

Initially treated as a routine aviation accident, the case of Piper Lance 9H-ABU has since become a long-running mystery, with allegations of negligence, espionage, and claims of hostage taking.

Abdullah Sabri speaks to Desi’s brother Mark about dealing with his unexplained loss, unanswered questions, and what he thinks could have happened.

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Stephen McCullagh Trial: Man accused of Natalie McNally murder ‘recorded ex’s counselling sessions after she lost child’

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:48:28 GMT

The trial of Stephen McCullagh for the murder of Natalie McNally is continuing at Belfast Crown Court. In court today, a former partner of the murder accused gave evidence. The woman alleged that McCullagh had ‘recorded’ counselling sessions after she had suffered a stillbirth. She also said she withdrew a 2019 police statement relating to an alleged assault by McCullagh.

Natalie McNally was 15 weeks pregnant when she was killed at her home on December 18, 2022. Mr McCullagh denies any involvement with the murder.

Olivia Peden is joined by Allison Morris.

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Noah Donohoe: Jury shown transcript of phone call involving man selling teen’s possessions

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:54:00 GMT

The inquest into the death of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe has concluded its sixth week. Today in court the jury was shown a transcript of anonymous phone call involving man selling schoolboy’s possessions. On Wednesday, Sergeant Hutchings, a leading officer in the search for Noah, faced questions over whether police actions had delayed the identification of the culvert where the teenager was found. Hutchings said He “would’ve done anything" to find the teenager alive.

Olivia Peden is joined by Liam Tunney.

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John George Murder Suspect killed in Spain

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:04:53 GMT

One of the main suspects in the murder of west Belfast man John George has been shot dead in the Costa Blanca. Michel Maly, a former soldier from the Czech republic, was shot dead in the early hours of Sunday morning in Torrevieja in the Alicante region of Spain. He had been on bail in connection with the murder of father-of-two John George, whose body was discovered in January 2025 – 24 days after he was reported missing.

Olivia Peden is joined by Allison Morris.

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Man abused at NI ‘Christian nightclub’ accuses Presbyterian Church and PSNI of failing him and ‘other victims’

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

A man who was abused at a so-called ‘Christian nightclub’ has accused the Presbyterian Church and the PSNI of failing him and other potential victims.

Ross Hunter, now 39 years old, says he was sexually abused by his cousin Jonathan Hyndman, who was a youth leader in a co. Londonderry church in the 1990s. Hyndman, who became a policeman in the 2000s, was suspended from duty after a criminal investigation was launched but took his own just days later. The victim has accused PCI of “trying to keep abuse buried”.

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s Brett Campbell.

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Stephen McCullagh Trial: Murder accused told police Natalie McNally was “having problems with her ex” when arrested in connection with killing

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:04:54 GMT

The trial of Stephen McCullagh for the murder of 32-year-old Natalie McNally has entered its second week. Today in court a transcript was read out of McCullagh’s first interview with police, where he said Natalie was “having problems with her ex”. Ms McNally was killed at her home in Lurgan, suffering fatal injuries in what has been described as a “prolonged attack”. McCullagh (36) denies murdering Ms McNally, who was 15 weeks pregnant at the time of her death.

Last week footage of the movements of a ‘person of interest’ was played to the court.

Niamh Campbell was joined by Allison Morris.

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'Within seconds it turned violent': The ‘Love Ulster’ riots 20 years on

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Twenty years ago this week, Willie Frazer's planned ‘Love Ulster’ march ended in some of the worst riots ever witnessed in Dublin city centre. So how did a bright and busy Saturday afternoon descend into violence, disorder and chaos? We hear a first-hand account from a journalist who reported on the scene.

Host: Fionnán Sheahan | Guest: Neil Fetherstonhaugh

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Noah Donohoe: People who ‘inserted themselves’ into the search caused difficulties for police, witness tells inquest

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 22:46:46 GMT

Individuals who ‘inserted themselves’ into the search for Noah Donohoe caused difficulties for police, the inquest into the 14-year-old's death has heard.

On Wednesday it was revealed that more than 100 volunteers helped search for the schoolboy.

One of those volunteers showed he could put his whole body through the bars leading to the culvert.

It was also said in court that a resident of the Northwood Road area ‘couldn’t see any sign’ that someone entered the culvert where Noah Donohoe’s body was found.

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Stephen McCullagh trial: Jury shown YouTube ‘live stream’ from night Natalie McNally was killed

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:39:53 GMT

The trial of the man accused of murdering Natalie McNally is continuing in Belfast. 36-year-old Stephen McCullagh of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, denies murdering Ms McNally. She was fifteen weeks pregnant when was killed at her home in Lurgan in December 2022. On Tuesday, the state pathologist outlined the injuries she sustained in a prolonged attack – including defence wounds as she tried to fight off her attacker.

On Wednesday, the jury heard that experts from the PSNI’s cyberteam determined McCullagh’s six-hour stream on YouTube was not in fact live at all but had been recorded some days before. The crown’s case is that this constituted a false alibi.

Allison Morris was in court.

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Noah Donohoe: Inquest hears there was no interaction between Noah and Daryl Paul

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:47:36 GMT

Police received an anonymous tip-off that Daryl Paul had Noah Donohoe's backpack, the inquest into the 14-year-old's death has heard.

The inquest also heard that there “is categorical acceptance that Mr Paul would not have interacted with Noah during his journey from south to north Belfast”.

Noah’s naked body was found in a storm drain tunnel in north Belfast, six days after leaving home on his bike.

The inquest is now in its fifth week of hearing evidence.

Liam Tunney is covering for the Belfast Telegraph

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Stephen McCullagh trial: Prosecution describes Natalie McNally murder as “planned, calculated and pre-meditated”

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:05:17 GMT

The murder of a pregnant woman in Co Armagh a week before Christmas in 2022 has been described in a Belfast court as “planned, calculated and pre-meditated”.

32-yearold Natalie McNally was 15 weeks’ pregnant when she was attacked and killed in her Lurgan home.

36-year-old Stephen McCullagh, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, has denied her murder.

The prosecution set out its case on Monday.

Allison Morris, the Belfast Telegraph crime correspondent, reports.

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How Irish ICE detainee Seamus Culleton went from “perfect victim” to public scrutiny

Sun, 22 Feb 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Seamus Culleton and his harrowing story of life inside an ICE detention centre in Texas made a big impact in Ireland. The Kilkenny man quickly gained the sympathy of Ireland’s public and politicians, only for the tide to suddenly turn as new developments emerged. So, how did Seamus Culleton go from “perfect victim” to publicly scrutinised? And is Micheál Martin likely to push Donald Trump’s immigration buttons when he visits the White House next month?

Host: Fionnán Sheahan

Guest: Niall Donald

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‘Don’t call Jeffrey Epstein a paedophile’ - top Northern Ireland lawyer part of 2011 effort to defend Epstein’s reputation

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:28:25 GMT

‘Don’t call Jeffrey Epstein a paedophile’ – that was the demand of a top NI lawyer to a London newspaper in 2011.

Paul Tweed was brought in to try and limit the damage to the sex-offender's reputation after he was released from prison.

The Belfast solicitor is one of the best-known libel lawyers in the UK and Ireland.

He has told the Belfast Telegraph that he “categorically rejects the suggestion that he acted in any way inappropriately”, saying he acted within his professional and regulatory obligations.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar in the studio.

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Andrew Mountbatten Windsor arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 11:29:44 GMT

Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has been arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Vehicles believed to be unmarked police cars arrived at his home in Sandringham this morning, where he had been living following his departure from Windsor. The former prince was stripped of his title in October 2025 over his links to pedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Mountbatten-Windsor, who denies all wrongdoing, turned 66 years old today.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by TRT World News Anchor Enda Brady.

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Noah Donohoe: Former PSNI officer said search as 'professional and as urgent as possible'

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 18:01:06 GMT

A former PSNI officer who searched the culvert in which the remains of Noah Donohoe were ultimately found has indicated felt the search operation had been as professional and as urgent as possible. He also said there had been “no suggestion or evidence he had ever gone into the culvert”. The inquest into the death of 14-year-old schoolboy Noah Donohoe is continuing in Belfast.

Liam Tunney is covering proceedings for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Noah Donohoe: Conditions in pitch-dark tunnel would have be ‘challenging’ to survive in

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 19:06:42 GMT

Conditions inside the pitch-black tunnel in which Noah Donohoe’s remains were found would be a very challenging place to survive if you were naked – a PSNI officer has told the inquest into the schoolboy’s death. 14-year-old Noah’s body was discovered in north Belfast on June 27, 2020, six days after the St Malachy’s College student went missing. On Tuesday – the jury also heard police say ‘Hundreds of local residents had gathered in quite an agitated state'

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Stephen McCullagh goes on trial accused of murdering Natalie McNally

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:04:59 GMT

The trial of the man accused of the murder of Lurgan woman Natalie McNally has begun. 32-year-old Natalie McNally was 15 weeks pregnant when she was stabbed to death at her home in December 2022. 35-year-old Stephen McCullagh, of Woodland Gardens in Lisburn, has denied the charge.

The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris reports.

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The Firm out for revenge after Armagh City attack on alleged enforcer

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 01:00:00 GMT

The North-Armagh crime outfit ‘The Firm’ will take matters into its own hands after convicted double killer Stephen Smith died in January. Smith passed away after a seizure at home but that followed him being injured in an attack in Armagh before Christmas. That incident is being linked to a rival crime gang based in Armagh City – and the Firm are not happy. Why not?

The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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NI culture director: "People perceive our cultures to be competing... they’re not"

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 01:00:00 GMT

Dr Katy Radford MBE is Northern Ireland’s first ever director of the Office of Identity and Cultural Expression. The office, created as part of the ‘New Decade, New Approach’ deal, says it aims to ‘promote and protect the cultural heritage of all communities in Northern Ireland’. Dr Radford was hired alongside Irish Language Commissioner Pól Deeds and Commissioner for Ulster Scots and Ulster British Identity Lee Reynolds – but she says she’s ‘not quite sure’ what their relationship entails yet. Having served as Equality Commissioner and the Vice-Chair of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, she’s bringing extensive experience to her new role.

Dr Katy Radford MBE joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Turning Point: Widow of Charlie Kirk expected to visit NI

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Erika Kirk is rumoured to be visiting Northern Ireland as part of a tour to recruit young people to the conservative organisation founded by her murdered husband, Charlie Kirk. The organisation started out among conservative students on campuses across the US. It’s understood that former DUP MP Ian Paisley has been consulted about setting up a branch of the group Northern Ireland to carry forward their christian-right ethos.

Could Turning point come to NI, what would it stand for, and would the group’s views resonate with young people in Northern Ireland?

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph Journalists Brett Campbell and Kurtis Reid.

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Claire Hanna: SDLP leader says united Ireland is ‘likely’ but not ‘inevitable’

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Stormont should not be treated as a “soft-play area” for politicians, the SDLP leader Claire Hanna has said in an in-depth interview with the BelTel podcast. In it, she gave her views on Irish unity, on Stormont reform and on the SDLP’s chances of recovery. Claire Hanna became the leader of the SDLP unopposed in October 2024 having been an MP for south Belfast since 2019.

Many commentators say the SDLP has been more stridently pro-unity under Hanna’s leadership. Does she agree?
Can she square making Northern Ireland work with not wanting it at all?
And can she turn around the SDLP’s long-term decline.

Claire Hanna, joined Ciarán Dunbar on the BelTel.

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Epstein files: Keir Starmer on the brink, and Irish connections explored

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:03:37 GMT

It’s been a rough week for prime minister Keir Starmer. First, the Labour leader offered a direct apology to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein’s sex-trafficking network while declaring that “none of us knew the depth and darkness” of the relationship between Epstein and former British ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson. Then came the resignations of Morgan McSweeney and Tim Allan. Can Mr Starmer hold onto his job?

Meanwhile, the latest tranche of Epstein files contained references of a distinctly Irish nature – what are they, and what conclusions can we draw from them?

Host: Tabitha Monahan

Guests: Enda Brady and Kim Bielenberg

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Lauren Bradford-Clarke: Being Colin Howell’s daughter

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Lauren Bradford-Clarke grew up believing her mother Lesley had taken her own life before finding out the truth – her father was a murderer. She was told her mum Lesley took her own life, eventually being told it was part of a ‘suicide’ pact with a man, Trevor Buchanan – the husband of the woman who would eventually become a mother figure to her. That woman was Hazel Stewart, how had been having an affair with Lauren’s father, Colin Howell. 18 years after the deaths, Colin Howell walked into a police station and confessed to murdering them, implicating Stewart as his partner in crime.

Dr Lauren Bradford-Clarke, now a criminologist, spoke with the Belfast Telegraph’s Claire Williamson.

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UVF serial killer supergrass Haddock 'dead man walking'

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Former UVF man Mark Haddock has been released from prison in England. A serial killer, Haddock was previously the commander of the notorious Mount Vernon UVF gang. But the loyalist informer has been told he is a ‘dead man walking’ if he tries to return to home to Belfast – might he chance it?

The Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Noah Donohoe: 'Significant evidential development' over CCTV footage on Northwood Road

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 17:54:56 GMT

Noah Donohoe’s appearance on a leisure centre’s CCTV footage appeared to have been “missed” by police in the first “critical” 24 hours after he went missing, an inquest has heard. The inquest into the death of 14-year-old schoolboy Noah Donohoe continues today. Noah’s body was discovered in north Belfast on June 27, 2020, six days after the St Malachy’s College student went missing as he cycled to meet friends.

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

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Noah Donohoe: More witnesses say they heard ‘screams’

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 18:07:48 GMT

A witness says she heard two screams the night Noah Donohoe went missing. Another witness said he saw a torch light on his window in the early hours of the following morning. The evidence was heard as the inquest into the death of 14-year-old schoolboy continues in Belfast.

Liam Tunney reports.

Among the evidence heard on Wednesday:

Constable involved in early stages of missing person investigation begins evidence
Inquest hears from resident who heard two screams on night Noah went missing
Constable asked about why he specifically mentioned author Jordan Peterson

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Nama trial: How Frank Cushnahan was cleared of fraud

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 09:45:28 GMT

A jury has cleared veteran Belfast business figure Frank Cushnahan of wrong-doing. He had been accused of dishonestly failing to disclose he was in line for millions of pounds from the sale of Nama’s Northern Ireland loans more than a decade ago.Cushnahan (84) may still face another charge, so what’s next for the Northern Ireland businessman?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride.

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Noah Donohoe Inquest: Witness heard ‘scream’ and mother Fiona was worried over Jordan Peterson book

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 18:30:07 GMT

The inquest into the death of Belfast teenager Noah Donohoe is continuing. On Monday one witness testified she heard a “high-pitched scream” near to where Noah’s remains were found - on the night he went missing. Another said she was awoken by a noise at her back door of the handle being tried in the early hours of the morning. On Tuesday, the jury heard Noah’s mother Fiona Donohoe had bought Noah a book by Jordan Peterson and that he had not put it down all week. A police witness reported she was worried it might have affected her son.

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

Key updates:

First police witness to give evidence spoke of night he attended Fiona Donohoe's house when Noah reported missing
Inquest heard from witness who found Noah's phone
Witness described hearing 'high-pitched scream' on night Noah disappeared
Witness heard someone trying to access her home via back door in early hours of morning

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Rostrevor man convicted in Greek court after killing student in holiday confrontation

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 00:05:00 GMT

A County Down man’s holiday in Greece has ended in a conviction for fatal bodily harm. Trinity law graduate Joseph Patrick Connolly has been found guilty of killing a university of Limerick student after a confrontation on the island of Ios in the early hours of August 30th, 2021. 21-year-old Niall O’Brien died after being punched twice in the head.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Mark Tighe, senior news journalist with the Sunday Independent, who attended court in Greece.

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Noah Donohoe Inquest: Police notes described Noah as a 'high functioning autistic teenager'

Thu, 29 Jan 2026 18:06:14 GMT

The Noah Donohoe inquest has been hearing from witnesses in the street near to where the 14-year-olds remains were found.

His body was discovered in north Belfast on June 27, 2020, six days after the St Malachy’s College student went missing as he cycled to meet friends.

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph.

Among the evidence heard on Thursday.

Witness saw figure 'totally naked' and 'sitting down cycling'
One person said that she thought at the time that that person she saw was “maybe drunk”
Inquest hears storm drain area could only be accessed through locked gate or through nearby homes

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Noah Donohoe Inquest: Witness saw schoolboy coming off his bike

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 18:26:00 GMT

An Eyewitness saw Noah Donohoe fall over handlebars of his bike the day he went missing – the inquest in his death has heard. Another witness recalled seeing Noah “with no top on”.

Liam Tunney is covering the inquest for the Belfast Telegraph, among the headlines from Thursday’s evidence:

New inquest witness said he believed Noah had no top on when he saw him
Witness says she 'didn't see' Noah suffer head injury
'It wasn't horrifically bad but he did go forward': Inquest hears Noah fell over bicycle handlebars

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Jon Burrows: New UUP leader on his meteoric rise, how to sell the union, and Nigel Farage

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Six months into his career as a politician, Jon Burrows has become the leader of the UUP unopposed. It’s understood the former PSNI officer had overwhelming support from the party’s rank and file membership nut he remains a relative unknown to the media and to the wider public. Jon Burrows joined Ciarán Dunbar in the BelTel studio.

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Noah Donohoe Inquest: Close friend says teenager “was going through something”

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:26:07 GMT

The Noah Donohoe inquest has heard evidence from one of his friends, Charlie Rocks. 14-year-old Noah’s remains were found in a storm drain in North Belfast almost six-years ago. Mr Rocks said it was “clear Noah was going through something before he went missing” but he never appeared to be depressed. He also said Noah had never expressed an interest over storm drains prior to his disappearance. The jury was also shown footage of Noah cycling the day he went missing.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney, who is covering the inquest.

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Noah Donohoe inquest: Jury hears from friends and teachers

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 18:23:23 GMT

The inquest into the death of 14-year-old schoolboy Noah Donohoe is continuing in Belfast.

Noah’s remains were found in a storm drain in North Belfast almost six-years ago.

He had been missing from his home in south belfast for six-days.

The jury has been hearing evidence from his friends and head teacher.

Liam Tunney was at the inquest.

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Carrickfergus UDA enforcer Colin Simms looks for new patch in 'Ards

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Sources say UDA enforcer Colin Simms is offering his services beyond his native South-East Antrim and is trying to get out of Carrickfergus. But UDA brigadiers want £10,000 up front before they take him on – despite Simms bringing a substantial criminal contact book with him.

The Sunday World’s Richard Sullivan reports.

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Derry man gets jail for putting father’s body in fridge

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

In a case which shocked the city, a 56-year-old Londonderry man has been jailed for preventing the lawful burial of his father. Bizarrely, John Garrett O'Sullivan of Culmore Road, had kept his father’s body in a fridge for days. Noel O'Sullivan, who was 86, died in July 2024, but the exact date and cause of death could not be verified. John Garrett O'Sullivan, who has a PhD but has never had a job or claimed benefits, pleaded guilty.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by court reporter, George Jackson.

[Warning – some listeners may find some parts of this podcast disturbing]

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Noah Donohoe Inquest: Jury hears Fiona Donohoe's evidence

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:30:17 GMT

The inquest into the death of Noah Donohoe is underway in Belfast. Noah Donohoe’s body was found in a storm drain in north Belfast on June 27, 2020, six days after the St Malachy’s College student went missing. The jury has been played the recording of the phone call Noah’s mother Fiona Donohoe made to police on the evening he went missing and has heard her pre-recorded evidence.

She said:

Noah had been crying in his bedroom the day he left home
Mother Fiona Donohue had “extreme concerns about his mental health”
She questioned if son's life could have been saved if 'right steps' taken by police

Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney is covering the proceedings.

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Unionist 'unity' - could it ever happen and what does it mean?

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:40:07 GMT

Jon Burrows is taking the leadership of the UUP unopposed after current deputy leader Robbie Butler confirmed that he would not be standing. Current party leader Mike Nesbitt has also said that any decision to replace him as health minister would “perhaps raise questions”. The DUP’s Gavin Robinson has wasted no time - invited his rival for talks, telling him to “set aside issues of the past” - but could ‘unionist unity’ ever really happen?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Unionist commentators Tim Cairns and Alex Kane and Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride.

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Northern Ireland and ‘Nazi Tinder’: Single, lonely, and looking to ‘breed white’

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

The right-wing dating site Whitedate.net, dubbed the ‘Nazi Tinder’, has dozens of members across Ireland. But only one of them mentions love as a motivation, many mention the need to “breed” for the “white race”. The site’s thousands of profiles were leaked online after a hack. A lonely Belfast man said he was looking for a “lady who has never been soiled by other races” and “a bride willing to have children, in order to stop the destruction of our people.”

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Kurtis Reid.

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Former PSNI detective says Fermanagh girl Kelly Lynch’s death warrants murder investigation

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 01:00:00 GMT

On St Patrick’s Day 2024, Gardaí made a grim discovery, the body of a young woman in a canal just outside Monaghan town. She was 23-year-old Kelly Marie Lynch, originally from County Fermanagh. A former PSNI detective who has investigated a number of prominent murders, including the 2020 killing of Katie Simpson by Jonathan Creswell, believes Kelly Lynch’s case should be upgraded to a murder investigation.

Host: Fionnán Sheehan Guest: Catherine Fegan & James Brannigan

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Enniskillen Bombing: Reports claim female who ‘led’ massacre living a ‘comfortable life’ in Fermanagh

Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

A woman identified by Garda as the Enniskillen bombing IRA commander is living an ‘ordinary life’ in Fermanagh – reports have claimed. Twelve people died in the massacre which took place during a Remembrance Day service in 1987.

Relatives of the victims, including Stephen Gault, who lost his father and was injured in the attack, say they are sickened by the allegation.

David O’Dornan spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Allison Morris: NI teens shocked to find out AI has 'nudified' them

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland women say they are shocked after finding out their clothing was removed from legitimate photographs taken when they were children. The PSNI are investigating allegations artificial intelligence software was used to remove teenagers’ clothing. The story comes to light as the UK plans a law to make it illegal to create non-consensual intimate images.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Barristers strike means delays for victims, but lawyers say they have no choice

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland’s criminal defence barristers are on indefinite strike over pay.

The move will exacerbate delays in a system already notorious for how slowly it can operate but the lawyers say they have been left with no option.

Justice Minister Naomi Long says the strike is unnecessary and will have a "devastating impact on the justice system, particularly for victims".

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by criminal defence barristers, Michael Forde and Aoife Macauley, who put forward their case.

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Steve Bannon's plan for Irish MAGA movement - could it happen?

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 01:00:00 GMT

A former trusted adviser of US president Donald Trump, Steve Bannon, gave an interview to Politico, where he claimed that we are "going to have an Irish MAGA, and we’re going to have an Irish Trump”. Making it clear that some elements of the alt-right movement have set their sights on Ireland.

Bannon’s statement begs a number of questions, such as how exactly would he and other MAGA influencers pull this off?

Tabitha Monahan is joined by Declan Lynch and Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc.

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The UK and Europe in turmoil as Trump goes after the oil

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:12:04 GMT

After the abduction of the Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro the US now openly seeks to dominate the western hemisphere and to control its wealth. JD Vance says the US will now control Venezuela’s natural resources for its own benefit. Now the White house is considering seizing Greenland by force leaving Europe in a very awkward place.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Danish journalist Tom Carstensen and by former journalist and RAF reservist Michael Cairns to discuss the impact on Europe.

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Secret files reveal government wooing of UDA terror chiefs

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

UK government policy says it does talk to terrorists - but it was directly meeting loyalist ‘brigadiers’ - newly declassified files reveal. Revelations revealed in this year’s batch of files include that whilst the Government claimed not be talking to terrorists, they were happy to meet the UDA’s leadership in their capacity as so-called 'brigadiers’, how continuing IRA activity held back the peace process and who the DUP wanted to become a Lord.

Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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DUP’s Phillip Brett: "Nigel and Dianne Dodds were my political mum and dad"

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 00:05:00 GMT

At 34, Phillip Brett is one of Stormont’s younger MLAs and the North Belfast Assembly man has seen his profile grow since being elected to Stormont in 2022. He says much of his politics has been shaped by his close relationship with Nigel and Dianne Dodds, who he calls his ‘political mum and dad’. Philip Brett’s family life was torn asunder when his 19-year-old brother Gavin was murdered by the UDA in 2001 – he says he wants justice for his mum.

In an exclusive interview with The BelTel podcast, the MLA joined Ciarán Dunbar in the studio to talk politics, ambition and the work involved in being an MLA.

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The murder of Pearl Gamble and the man who was hanged for it

Fri, 02 Jan 2026 01:00:00 GMT

The morning after a dance in a Newry Orange hall, 19-year-old Pearl Gamble’s body is found at the end of a trail of blood. Suspicion immediately falls on 25-year-old Robert McGladdery, known locally for his predatorial behaviour. Less than a year later, McGladdery is the last man to be hanged on the island of Ireland.

Historian Joe Baker and Charlie McSherry, a neighbour of Pearl Gamble, join Ciarán Dunbar to tell the story of her vicious murder.

This podcast was first broadcast in February 2024.

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Martin O’Hagan: The LVF murder of Sunday World journalist and the struggle for justice

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Martin O’Hagan was a former IRA prisoner who eventually rejected violence and became an investigative reporter with the Sunday World. He was murdered by the LVF in Lurgan on 28th of September 2001. No-one has ever been convicted of the killing. The National Union of Journalists wants an independent inquiry into the killing and the subsequent investigation into it.

Ciarán Dunbar is by joined by Anton McCabe, Seamus Dooley, and by Jim McDowell, Martin O’Hagan’s editor at the Sunday World.

This episode was first broadcast in November 2024.

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The time the Stickies went to North Korea

Mon, 29 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

North Korea is one of the world’s most secretive states – known for its dictators who are treated like gods and an iron-clad grip on their citizens. Back in 1988, six members of the Official IRA made their way to North Korea to receive state of the art training – some were expelled from the country after a drunken brawl. The unusual alliance came as secretary general of the Irish Workers Party, Sean Garland, allegedly laundered millions of fake dollars for the Kim dynasty.

Olivia Peden is joined by journalist and author John Sweeney, who has visited the strange nation.

This podcast was originally published in February 2025.

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McIlroy’s masters win, boxing success, and NI wins the World Cup... Northern Ireland’s top 15 2025 Sport moments

Fri, 26 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

2025 was a platinum year for Northern Ireland’s sport superstars, from winning Premier League medals to securing world titles. Rory McIlroy finally got his hands on the green jacket, Lewis Crocker upset the odds to win the IBF Welterweight World title at Windsor Park, and Northern Ireland won its first ever World Cup... as Josh Rock and Daryl Gurney took home the glory of the 2025 PDC world cup.

To count down Northern Ireland’s top 15 Sporting Moments of 2025, Keith Bailie is joined by Belfast Telegraph chief sportswriter Steven Beacom and reporter Niamh Campbell.

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The DJ Carey Story EP 3: The Con Collapses

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

DJ Carey said he was fighting for his life, but the truth was far more shocking. We ask how one of hurling’s greatest heroes went from legend to scandal, and what the courts would say as the law eventually caught up with him.

Host: Kevin Doyle.

Guests: Noel Tynan, Amy Molloy, Niamh Horan and Colm Keys

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The DJ Carey Story EP 2: The Cancer Lies

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

When DJ Carey told people he had cancer, few questioned him — after all, he was a national treasure. But was DJ really sick, or spinning a story for sympathy and money? One man tells of his story of how he was duped by DJ Carey.

Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Noel Tynan and Amy Molloy.

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The DJ Carey Story EP 1: The Sports Star

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

He conquered the hurling field, but off it DJ Carey was playing a far darker game. This is the story of a national icon who fooled everyone — until the truth caught up with him. In this special series from the Indo Daily, we trace the rise of a sporting icon whose lies, deception and downfall proved even heroes can crumble.

Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Colm Keys, Amy Molloy and Niamh Horan

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The murder of Denis Donaldson – a mystery that just gets murkier

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Allison Morris explains what we know about the death of the British informer at the heart of Sinn Féin, Denis Donaldson, who was murdered in April 2006. No-one has ever been convicted of the murder and Donaldson’s family rejects a claim by the Real IRA that they did it. But whilst much of this story remains a mystery, further details have emerged.

Guest: Allison Morris, Host: Ciarán Dunbar.

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‘Ulster-Scots a wealth denied, and Britishness not valued as it was’: Lee Reynolds

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Lee Reynolds is Northern Ireland's first Commissioner for the Ulster-Scots and the Ulster-British tradition. The Coleraine man is a former DUP special advisor, Belfast city councillor and he’s the man who coordinated the campaign for Brexit in Northern Ireland.

What does the role entail?
What is Mr Reynold’s vision?
And what changes can people expect to see, and hear?

Lee Reynolds joined Ciarán Dunbar in the studio.

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Dave Rupert: The Chicago trucker recruited by the FBI to spy on IRA

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Dave Rupert, a six and half foot tall, middle-aged trucker from Chicago, with no Irish links. Rupert was a tourist who enjoyed a pint and through a series of chance events became a trusted republican insider and then an agent working for the FBI. How did an American man with no background in republicanism end up living a double life as part of the Real IRA Army council, and why did its leader Mickey McKevitt believe him?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Abdon Pallasch.

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NI Artist Colin Davidson on painting the late Queen, the Troubles and his most important work

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Belfast man Colin Davidson is one of Ireland’s most celebrated painters. Queen Elizabeth II, Bono, Ed Sheeran and Seamus Heaney are among the host of famous faces to have sat for him. Yet the Belfast-born painter regards his greatest work as a series of 18 portraits, which he did for free. In his new book, titled ‘Twelve paintings: Conversations with Mark Carruthers’ the NI artist speaks to BBC Journalist about 12 of his key works about why he does what he does.

Belfast Telegraph's Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride is joined by Colin Davidson and Mark Carruthers.

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‘Media amplifies opposition to Irish language’: Newly appointed Irish Language Commissioner

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

The newly appointed Irish Language Commissioner says the Irish language is not controversial and that opposition to it is “amplified” by the media. Dr Pól Deeds also said he couldn’t think of an example of language “weaponisation”. Unionist opposition to the language has long been justified as legitimate due to “weaponisation” of Irish by republicans.

Dr Deeds spoke to the BelTel’s Ciarán Dunbar in a wide-ranging interview.

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Scappaticci / Stakeknife’s extraordinary relationship with army revealed

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:31:54 GMT

The long-awaited report on the activities of IRA double agent ‘Stakeknife’, Freddie Scappaticci, has now been released. The investigation, which cost close to £48 million and took eight years, has revealed new details, despite not naming Scappaticci as Stakeknife. It reveals details of security forces confirming that the Stakeknife operation probably cost more lives than it saved and established. that Scappaticci ‘volunteered interest in helping security forces’.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris and Kurtis Reid.

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Disappeared commission chief on the search for the dead

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Four victims of the Troubles - all believed to be victims of the IRA, remain missing. The so-called ‘Disappeared’, people murdered and secretly buried by republicans have long been searched for but the remains of Columba McVeigh, Joe Lynskey, Robert Nairac and Seamus Maguire have yet to be found. A new search for Seamus Maguire is planned for the spring. The body responsible for finding them is the Independent Commission for the Location of Victims Remains – informally known as the Disappeared Commission. The body is headed by former Garda Eamonn Henry, he joined Ciarán Dunbar on the BelTel.

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The UDA's deadly attack on Dublin Airport, 50 years on

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 01:00:00 GMT

50 years ago, on November 29, 1975, the UDA attacked Dublin Airport, leading to the death of a baggage handler. The tragedy has been largely forgotten by the wider public over the last five decades. However, for those who still seek answers it is as pressing as ever.

Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Brendan Hayes

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'Republicans' threaten elected politicians

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

A criminal investigation has been launched after a group of masked and armed men issued threats where they described politicians in the Newry area as “legitimate targets”. In the video, the three masked men, who are shown holding what looks like firearms, say they are members of the ‘New Republican Movement’. One of the masked men accuses local politicians of ‘flooding our communities with undocumented military age men’, before hitting out at the supposed ‘sexual indoctrination’ of children.

Olivia Peden is joined by Allison Morris.

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People Before Profit's Gerry Carroll outlines his vision of socialism

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

People before Profit has one MLA in Stormont – Gerry Carroll. But the west Belfast man, known for his pro-Palestinian views and critiques of capitalism, has a high profile.

People before Profit MLA Gerry Carroll spoke to Ciarán Dunbar about what he thinks a socialist Ireland would look like, his views on a border poll, and his views on immigration and the far right.

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Danny Morrison on 'inevitable' united Ireland, Gerry Adams, and Stormont

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Danny Morrison was once Sinn Féin’s publicity director - well-known for the phrase ‘a ballot box in one hand and an Armalite in the other’. Now, he’s no longer involved in front-line politics and is better known as a writer. His latest work is an updated memoir entitled ‘All the Dead voices’, which was originally released in 2002.

Danny Morrison joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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Would a nine-county Northern Ireland have survived?

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 12:00:00 GMT

Northern Ireland is six counties. But the province of Ulster was – and is – made up of nine counties – all including Ulster Protestants. As partition loomed, Unionists chose six counties and demographic dominance over nine counties with a much smaller protestant majority. But what if Donegal, Monaghan and Cavan remained in the UK?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Samuel Beckton, author of ‘The Unbroken Covenant: Could Ulster Unionists have controlled a nine-county Northern Ireland, 1920-1945'.

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Julian Simmons on WW3 and Alien invasions, missing 'the old UTV', and losing his mum

Fri, 28 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Julian Simmons is a Northern Ireland broadcasting legend, best known for his colourful introductions to soaps on UTV. Although continuity was axed on the Channel during covid, Julian is still adored by the public, now swapping the tv studio for DJ decks and much more. But despite his bright plans for the future, Simmons says he fears that a comet coming through earth’s solar system could put humanity to an end.

Julian Simmons talks with Ciarán Dunbar about his illustrious career, his childhood, and his thoughts on an alien visit to earth.

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"It looks like a youth club": The open prison that lets NI’s most violent men roam free

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Burren House is a part of Northern Ireland’s prison system that many of us have never heard of. It’s a pre-release open prison – supposedly intended to prepare murderers, sex offenders and others for release back into our communities. Some of the 25 criminals held in Burren House include serial sex attacker Tom Ward and former academic Gerry O’Kane, who stabbed his wife to death in a jealous rage. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes.

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Socialist vigilantes linked to pipe-bomb attacks on west Belfast far right

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 08:58:40 GMT

Members of a vigilante group targeting far-right activists have been blamed for pipe bomb attacks in west Belfast. Sources say the group, which calls itself the Socialist Republican Front, is leaving viable devices close to the homes of people they claim are connected to far-right organisations.

Ciarán Dunbar joined by Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Enoch Burke jailed again: Who is funding his crusade?

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Enoch Burke and his family have been a recurring fixture in Irish media for the past three years. What began as a workplace dispute over his objection to transgenderism, has spiraled into a protracted and costly legal saga, one that has already seen him spend more than 500 days in jail for contempt of court. Now, he is set to return to Mountjoy once again - his fourth stint behind bars. It’s starting to feel like a never-ending story. So, how might this saga ultimately conclude? And who is financing the Burkes’ evangelical campaign?

Host: Tessa Fleming. Guests: Shane Phelan and Cónal Thomas

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Presbyterian Church mired in controversy as PSNI launch criminal investigation

Fri, 21 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

The PSNI has is probing safeguarding failures in the Presbyterian Church in Ireland. It comes after the church’s moderator Trevor Gribben quit citing ‘serious and significant failings’ in safeguarding from 2009 to 2022, including concerns over a pedophile teacher who was a voluntary youth group leader in the church.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by The Belfast Telegraph’s Brett Campbell and the Sunday Life’s Angela Davison.

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BelTel Politics: The BBC, Stormont and a toxic environment for women

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Stormont has celebrated its first 10,000 days, but is it struggling with continuing political toxicity? As the UUP’s only mayor says she has faced extreme sexism, is politics getting rougher for women?

And, the BBC say they are ‘determined’ to fight Donald Trump in court, but what next for the corporation.

To talk about the week in politics, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Journalist and commentator Aoife Moore and former Stormont head of communications Michael Cairns.

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The Anglo-Irish Agreement (Part Three): The ‘game-changer’ which lead to the Good Friday Agreement

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Despite the protests and the anger of unionists, the Anglo-Irish Agreement endured under superseeded by the GFA. Some see it as a key factor in attracting Sinn Féin into the political process and by many as a vital factor in convincing unionism that it would have to concede to power-sharing with nationalists.

Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Professor Fergal Cochran, to Unionist commentator Alex Kane, to Professor Graham Walker, and to Dr. Peter McLaughlin to discuss the long-term legacy and consequences of the Anglo-Irish Agreement.

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The Anglo-Irish Agreement (Part Two): ‘Ulster Says No’ - mass protests erupt over ‘evil document’

Sun, 16 Nov 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Unionists felt that Margaret Thatcher was someone they could trust so when she signed the Anglo-Irish Agreement giving Dublin the right to be consulted over NI, unionists felt utterly betrayed and they were outraged. The UUP leader Jim Molyneax even called it an “an evil document.” Tens of thousands of unionists took to the streets of Belfast, a day forever remembered due to the DUP leader Ian Paisley’s “never, never, never” speech.

Professor Fergal Cochrane, Alex Kane, Professor Graham Walker, and Dr. Peter McLaughlin explain what happens when the Anglo-Irish Agreement is revealed and why.

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The Anglo-Irish Agreement (Part One): Why did Thatcher give Dublin a role in NI?

Fri, 14 Nov 2025 00:44:04 GMT

The Hunger Strikes had led to a surge in support for Republicanism and in October 1984, Margaret Thatcher herself, narrowly escaped death in the Brighton bombing. Her intelligence chiefs were clear; they weren’t going to defeat the IRA by purely military and security means – she decided something had to be done. Meanwhile in Dublin, fears over the rise of Sinn Féin and frustration with a lack of progress in advancing nationalists’ interests led to an openness to fresh ideas. The stage was set for secret talks which led to the Anglo-Irish Agreement, signed on the 15 November 1985. Ulster’s Unionists were outraged by what they saw as a betrayal.

What was the background to the agreement, why was it so controversial, and what did it really involve?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Professor Fergal Cochrane, commentator, Alex Kane, Professor Graham Walker, and Dr. Peter McLaughlin.

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Eamonn Holmes in his own words: "The HMRC came after me... at the most vulnerable time in my life"

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 15:03:54 GMT

“I’m still working because the thieving HMRC came after me... at the most vulnerable time in my life,” Eamonn Holmes has revealed to the BelTel. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar about his tax troubles, Donald Trump, working for GB News and growing up in the New Lodge area of Belfast. The GB News presenter is currently touring Northern Ireland with his one man show, ‘This Is My Life’.

He joined Ciarán Dunbar in the studio.

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'Marianne Smyth will never stop scamming' - Con-hunter opens up about being tricked by 'Queen of Con'

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Jonathan Walton describes himself as a ‘con-hunter’ but that’s not what he set out to be. The tv producer turned vigilante after he was scammed by con artist Marianne Smyth, the so-called ‘Queen of Con’. Over several years he had handed his supposed best friend Smyth, who claimed to be an Irish heiress, over $100,000. She was a lifelong con-artist, using a range of strategies, lies and aliases – posing as Jennifer Anniston, becoming a satanic priestess, claiming to be on the IRA’s army council, pretending to have cancer. Smyth was sentenced in September to 4 years in jail at Downpatrick crown court as it was revealed that she had scammed over £100,000 from people in Northern Ireland.

Jonathan Walton has written a book on his experience with the fraudster. It’s called ‘ Anatomy of a Con Artist: The 14 Red Flags to Spot Scammers, Grifters, and Thieves and is host of the hit podcast Queen of the Con, he joined Ciarán Dunbar on the BelTel.

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'Wicked, callous and evil liar' jailed after promising to donate kidney over Facebook

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:05:18 GMT

An east Belfast woman has been jailed after promising to donate a kidney over Facebook. Nicola Hutton reached out to Billy and Joanne Cullen over social media after Billy’s diagnosis of a serious disease. A stranger to the couple, Hutton continued to keep in contact with them to assure that she was a match and the transplant process was underway – but in reality, she had never intended to hand over the organ.

Hutton has now been sentenced to five months in prison.

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Kurtis Reid.

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BelTel Politics: Givan defiant, Greek signs in Belfast, and toilet flooder wreaks havoc at Stormont

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 15:58:07 GMT

Stormont Education Minister Paul Givan has been the focus of attention and anger over his visit to Israel. The UUP have lost a councillor, Linzi McLaren resigned her seat and quit the party citing concerns over Irish language policy and the absence of female voices. Plans are afoot to install street signage in Greek, Mandarin and Hebrew in Belfast – but will it actually happen? And finally, who keeps trying to flood Stormont?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by commentators Tim Cairns and Ursula Savage to discuss the week in NI politics.

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Fethard-on-Sea: The boycott of Protestants which scandalised Ireland and its link to Ian Paisley

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 01:00:00 GMT

The Fethard-on-Sea Boycott was a notorious event in Irish history. In 1957, Sheila Cloney, the Protestant wife of a Catholic farmer, fled her home with her children. Associates of Ian Paisley hid Sheila and her children in Belfast before eventually getting them to Scotland. Sheila Cloney left the Wexford village after refusing to bow to the demands of the local Catholic clergy to educate her daughter as Catholics. In response, the priests launched a boycott of Fethard's Protestant shopkeepers and farmers.

Tim Fanning tells Ciarán Dunbar the story of Sheila Cloney of the boycott of Protestants in Fethard-on-Sea.

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Maura Lyons: The Rev Ian Paisley and the 15-year-old “abducted” from west Belfast

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 00:05:00 GMT

The Rev Ian Paisley rose to prominence as the face of hardline unionism but the first time some would have heard of him would have been in connection with Maura Lyons. In 1956, the west Belfast teenager was smuggledto Scotland by members of the Free Presbyterian Church. She was a 15-year-old Catholic girl who converted to Free Presbyterianism, in the face of the strong objections of her family. They accused the Rev Ian Paisley of “abduction”. At one point, he gathered his supporters in the Ulster Hall to listen to a recording of Maura’s voice at the Ulster Hall, renouncing her Catholic faith as a “religion of fear and dread”.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by journalist Malachi O’Doherty, who grew up in west Belfast.

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BelTel Politics: LucidTalk, border poll criteria and a northern look at Irish Presidential election

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 17:04:13 GMT

The latest BelTel / LucidTalk polling reveals Sinn Féin keep the top spot as both the DUP and UUP see a slight boost in popularity, but the trend is worrying for Alliance. But Almost half of unionists say they would vote for Reform UK. And as talk of a border poll refuses to go away, most people want to know what exactly the criteria for calling one would be. And finally, as Catherine Connolly wins the presidential elections down south, the polling reveals how NI voters would have voted.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Journalist Aoife Moore and political commentator Alex Kane.

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UVF members behind Dublin Monaghan Bombings named

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Members of the UVF unit responsible for the Dublin and Monaghan bombings have been named for the first time. The bombings in May 1974 killed 33 civilians and injured almost 300 – it was the deadliest attack in the Republic’s history. Three car bombs exploded in Dublin during rush hour and a fourth exploded in Monaghan almost 90 minutes later.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris.

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Prince Andrew and Virginia Giuffre: The book that rocked the royals

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 11:00:00 GMT

The release of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir ‘Nobody’s Girl’ has brought new details of Prince Andrew’s alleged involvement in her abuse to light. Despite his repeated denials, new details and police inquiries continue to deepen the scandal, now pulling his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, into the spotlight into her own financial ties to pedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein

Kevin Doyle is joined by former Royals Correspondent Jennie Bond and columnist Sinéad Ryan.

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Flags and sectarian grievances are ‘hindering NI boxing’

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

According to a report by the Equality Commission, Flags and sectarian grievances are ‘hindering NI boxing’. The review comes after boxer Daryl Clarke claimed he was excluded from Northern Ireland’s 2022 Commonwealth Games team because of his identity.

The report also cites the continued display of flags, emblems and identity symbols at events, and a lack of formal procedures for reporting harassment and discrimination.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph journalist Niamh Campbell.

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Bloody Sunday Soldier F found not guilty

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:49:00 GMT

Soldier F has been cleared of two murders on Bloody Sunday. A judge in Belfast has ruled the evidence against the veteran fell below the standard needed. Soldier F was found not guilty of the murders of James Wray and William McKinney both shot dead by soldiers on January 30,1972. He was also cleared of attempting to murder Michael Quinn, Patrick O’Donnell, Joseph Friel, Joe Mahon, and an unknown person. He had pleaded not guilty to the seven counts. Predictably, the verdict has divided opinions.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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BelTel Politics: What a new Irish President means for NI amid souring relations in Stormont

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 15:41:57 GMT

With days to go in the two-horse race to the Irish Presidency, who is likely to come out on top, and what could the winner mean for Northern Ireland?

And up at Stormont, relations between politicians have become quite strained recently.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Irish Independent Politics Correspondent John Downing, and by Belfast Telegraph Assistant News Editor, Brett Campbell.

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United Ireland or United Kingdom: Sam McBride and Fintan O’Toole on the "good arguments for, and against"

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

'Many people in the south have no northern friends'
Some clinging to the NHS... but people live longer under Republic's system
How can you argue for and against anything at the same time?

The ‘conversation’ on a united Ireland is now constant, whether it's wanted or not. Despite unionists and others saying campaigning for a border poll is not appropriate, nationalists continue to push for it. Sam McBride and Fintan O’Toole are amongst the island of Ireland’s best-known journalists. They have written a new book entitled ‘For and against a united Ireland’, in which they both write a chapter making the case for and against unity.

They joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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The Enhanced Games: Will the ‘steroid Olympics’ be the evolution of sport or its undoing?

Sun, 19 Oct 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Imagine a sporting arena in which the taboo becomes the rule; where athletes aren’t tested, but encouraged to push the “chemical boundaries” of sport. Welcome to the Enhanced Games. It’s being sold as the future of sport, but not everyone’s buying it. Critics say it’s reckless and unethical. Dangerous, even. But who is footing the bill for the games, and what do they stand to benefit?

Kevin Doyle is joined by Ciarán Lennon and the Athletic reporter Jacob Whitehead.

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Newry drug baron ‘The Chocolate’ unwrapped at last

Thu, 16 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

One of Northern Ireland’s most powerful drug barons - ‘The Chocolate’ - can finally be unmasked. 48-year-old Newry man John McGivern has been forced to confess to a raft of drug charges, including dealing cocaine. He is the latest member of the criminal aristocracy brought down in the wake of the gangster phone network Encrochat getting hacked by French spies. ‘The Chocolate’ is now likely to be sent to Maghaberry but the question on Newry’s streets now is - who will fill the vacuum?

Niamh Campbell is joined by Ciaran Barnes from the Sunday Life and by Allison Morris from the Belfast Telegraph.

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BelTel Politics: Irish sign controversy continues, DUP and TUV at loggerheads, and Mike Nesbitt’s potential successor

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Mike Nesbitt has set out his vision for unionism at the UUP conference – but is he ready to pass the baton?

Meanwhile at Stormont, arguments over cultural issues take centre stage once again, with the DUP and TUV seemingly at loggerheads.

And as Unionist anger grows over Belfast City Council’s new Irish language policies, with an east Belfast sign vandalised, we take a look at the stats and surveys behind dual language signage.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by The Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen and journalist Liam Tunney.

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The road to the Anglo-Irish Agreement: The New Ireland Forum

Sun, 12 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Hunger Strike of 1981 saw a surge in violence that left scores killed. With no end to the Troubles imaginable and Sinn Féin emerging as a serious electoral force, constitutional nationalism decided it had to do something. Taoiseach Garrett Fitzgerald and the SDLP leader John Hume had a meeting of minds resulting in The New Ireland Forum.

What does the Forum recommend?
Was it more than just a talking shop?
And did it lead to the later Anglo-Irish Agreement?

Ciarán Dunbar spoke to historian Séan Ó Duibhir.

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Malcolm McKeown: The life, crimes and execution of the notorious gangster

Thu, 09 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Malcolm McKeown was shot dead at point blank range in August 2019. McKeown was a career criminal, from a family steeped in violence - both his brothers had convictions for involvement in sectarian killings. Two men have now been convicted of his murder – linked to the Lurgan based organised crime gang the ‘Firm’. McKeown had been shot previously, and he knew he was under threat, his enemies were many, but a botched drug deal with the Firm sealed his fate.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent, Allison Morris

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BelTel Politics: Irish signs, Labour snubs, the SDLP targeting Alliance, and will Farage eat the Tories?

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Domestically, NI politics has been consumed by Irish language issues this week and unionists reel in the wake of Belfast City Council’s new bilingual policy – is it just the result of demographics?

October is party conference season – why did Starmer not mention us in his speech?

The SDLP is presenting itself as both an alternative to Alliance and pushing Irish unity, can they do both?

And finally, an MLA says the current Stormont executive is the worst one since devolution returned in 1998 – is he right?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Liam Tunney, political commentator Alex Kane and by Ulster University lecturer David McCann.

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Massive Nama fraud trial begins with dramatic evidence: Sam McBride reports

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 14:40:48 GMT

The so-called Nama trial is underway in Belfast, more than a decade after police first began an exceptionally complex and significant investigaton.

Frank Cushnahan – a former banker and senior businessman - and Ian Coulter, a former top solicitor, face charges linked to an allegedly vast fraud at the heart of Northern Ireland’s biggest ever property deal. They deny all the charges.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride has been in court for the first four days of what could be a three-month-long trial.

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The Maze / Long Kesh prison: History still resonates from derelict site 25-years after paramilitaries walked out the door

Sun, 05 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The peace process saw the release of paramilitary prisoners from HMP Maze, aka the Maze, the H-Blocks, Long Kesh, an Cheis Fhada. The maximum-security prison held thousands during the Troubles. It closed 25 years ago. Whilst some of the site has been redeveloped, political deadlock means much of the old prison lies derelict. Unionists fear that a museum on the site would become a “shrine to terrorism”. Allison Morris has been talking to former staff and inmates – some of whom continued to try and escape even during peace negotiations.

She joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The IRA Kidnapping of Dutch Industrialist Dr Tiede Herrema that shocked the world

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 23:05:00 GMT

50 years ago, a pair of desperate Provisional IRA members etched their names in history as a crime driven by personal passion went astray. Their victim however would be a much shrewder hostage than they expected, Dutch industrialist turned adopted Irish son; Dr Tiede Herrema. Herrema was held for ransom for 36 days, with the pair believing that the crime would put pressure on the British and Irish governments.

Fionnán Sheehan is joined by Irish Independent Journalist Ralph Riegel.

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Onlyfans model Madison Allen: Wife of John George’s alleged killer arrested after crystal meth find

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

An Onlyfans model married to John George’s alleged killer has been arrested after allegedly being found with drugs in Spain. Belfast man John George’s body was discovered in January near Torrevieja. Madison Allen, now Madison Smyth, married murder suspect Jonny Smyth while he was on the run. Now, the 20-year-old Newtownabbey woman has been arrested after crystal meth and cannabis resin was found in the car she was driving.

Belfast Telegraph crime correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar with the latest.

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Officials fear right not to send kids to school or tell state they exist could be dangerous

Sun, 28 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland’s education system has no idea how many children it’s responsible for and there's no legal requirement for parents to tell education authorities they have a child. Stormont doesn’t know how lots of children are being educated – or whether they’re being educated at all. Documents show some senior Stormont officials fear these ‘missing children’ are vulnerable to “sexual exploitation”.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride has been investigating this story.

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Kneecap’s Mo Chara says ‘it was always about Gaza’ as terror case thrown out

Fri, 26 Sep 2025 13:17:47 GMT

The terrorism case against Kneecap rapper Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh has been thrown out. The magistrate dismissed the case over a technical error. Ó hAnnaidh said the case “was always about Gaza”. The 27-year-old, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, was accused of displaying a flag in support of proscribed terror organisation Hezbollah in November last year.

Belfast Telegraph reporter Niamh Campbell was in court.

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Guinness: The Earl of Iveagh on his famous family and the drink which made their fortune

Thu, 25 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Guinness dynasty is the subject of a new Netflix series ‘House of Guinness’. Ned Guinness, the Earl of Iveagh, is the great-great-great-great grandson of Arthur Guinness himself and the author of the book ‘Guinness: A family succession’.

He joined Olivia Peden to talk about his family history and pints.

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Notorious evangelical Christian Burke family confront the DUP over LGBT ‘support’ - why?

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Two members the Burke family have confronted the education minister Paul Givan accusing him ‘promoting sodomy’ and ‘deceiving the people of Northern Ireland’. The Burkes have also confronted Edwin Poots, Mervyn Storey, and Free Presbyterian minister Roger Higginson recent weeks.

So, who are the Burkes, what have they been up to in Northern Ireland, and why are they targeting the DUP?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Kurtis Reid and Shane Phelan.

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From H-Blocks to the pulpit: how IRA gunman Mark Lenaghan became a Catholic cleric

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:30:00 GMT

The funeral of 65-year-old Mark Lenaghan in Castlewellan attracted a large crowd and plenty of well-wishes for the beloved local deacon, but not everyone present knew about his former life as an IRA gunman.

How did Lenaghan find faith and leave the Troubles behind?

Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Hugh Jordan

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Stephen Walker: ‘There would have been no Good Friday Agreement without David Trimble’

Sun, 21 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Sam McBride sits down with Stephen Walker who has published a biography on the Nobel Peace Prize winner, entitled ‘Peacemaker’.

‘David Trimble: Peacemaker’ is based on 100 interviews, including with many members of the Trimble family. Later Lord Trimble, he was one of the key architects of the Belfast agreement, leading the largest unionist party at the time, the UUP.

Stephen Walker worked as a journalist for the BBC for 34 years. He sat down with the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride.

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Border Bandit Brendan ‘B-Man’ O’Callaghan looking at jailtime over encrochat cocaine dealing

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

A Crossmaglen man with Republican family connections has plead guilty to drug and money laundering. The so-called ‘B-Man’, 37-year-old Brendan O’Callaghan, who has links to prominent republicans, admitted 16 charges at the last minute after denying the charges for 5 years. O’Callaghan was caught after French intelligence hacked the secret Encrochat phone network used by criminals.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes.

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No Tyrone Goldrush: Why Stormont confusion and local division mean gold worth billions might stay under the ground

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

There are billions of pounds worth of gold under the Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone. A US-based company, Darlriadan Resources, wants to mine it. But local people are divided over whether the mine would benefit or harm them, some are mounting legal challenges against it. Sinn Féin is struggling with the decision and with its policy on mining. Will the gold ever be brought out of the ground and it is – who will benefit from it?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride.

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‘Soldier F’ Bloody Sunday trial begins in Belfast - Nicola Tallant reports

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 16:22:29 GMT

The trial of Soldier F has begun in Belfast. The former paratrooper is accused of murdering James Wray and William McKinney, two of the thirteen civil rights protests shot dead on Bloody Sunday in 1972. He is also charged with five attempted murders in Derry’s Bogside area.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday World’s Investigations Editor, Nicola Tallant, who was in court.

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'The scientist who wasn’t there’: The incredible story of a fantasist father, was he a spy?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Michael Briggs has a famous scientist but as it turns out he had faked some of his qualifications. He also faked research that supposedly showed the safety a brand of oral contraceptives. His daughter Joanne has written a book about him - ‘The Scientist Who Wasn't There’

She joined Ciarán Dunbar to tell her incredible story and to try and answer the question, who really was her father?

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Marianne Smyth: The American con-woman who claimed to be on IRA Army Council and to be Jennifer Anniston

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Marianne Smyth had a long career on both sides of the Atlantic as a swindler and a con-woman. Smyth has now been convicted in Downpatrick of swindling more than £115,000 from four victims, including Derry GAA player Dermot McNicholl. Born in Maine, Smyth claimed she had ordered IRA killings, been the heir of a multi-million dollar fortune, and survived cancer, among many other absurd lies.

Smyth had even had her pet dogs euthanised before she fled Northern Ireland.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Kurtis Reid joined Olivia Peden.

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What does the murder of MAGA activist Charlie Kirk mean for an angry America?

Thu, 11 Sep 2025 15:36:21 GMT

Thirty-one-year-old conservative activist and father-of-two Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a public event on Wednesday. With an intense manhunt underway, US president Donald Trump has blamed the “radical left” for the gruesome killing. How is an already splintered America responding to the murder of Charlie Kirk? And what happens next in a bitterly divided county awash with guns?

Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Terry Sheridan and Gina London

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September 2005 Riots: The three days of mayhem as police and soldiers battled loyalist rioters and gunmen

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 23:29:54 GMT

Riots were a familiar feature of the Troubles, but with political violence now almost a thing of the past, rioting is rare. However, sparked by a decision not to allow the Orange Order to parade on west Belfast’s Springfield Road, the September 2005 riots were complete mayhem. Loyalists rampaged for three nights causing two thousand police and soldiers to be deployed.

Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris was there, she joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sean Hegarty: How is the brutal double murderer able to be on Facebook despite being in prison?

Sun, 07 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Sean Hegarty is a brutal double murderer. He is currently in Northern Ireland’s maximum-security prison, Maghaberry. But he is somehow updating a Facebook account from behind bars. Hegarty murdered his ex-girlfriend Caron Smyth and her friend Finbar McGrillen in December 2013. Hegarty had just days before been released on bail for domestic violence charges. An inquest found that the PSNI’s decision to release the prolific abuser was flawed.

How was someone so dangerous let loose on the streets and how can he be on social media?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.

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The death of Brian Murphy: Dublin's class distinctions and southside privilege on trial

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 00:00:00 GMT

Twenty-five years ago, as a long summer drew to a close, a night out ended in tragedy. It changed the lives of four young men forever, ending another’s far too soon. It happened in the leafy, affluent suburb of Donnybrook in south Dublin. A fight broke out among a group of young men outside Anabel’s nightclub. When it was over, 18-year-old Brian Murphy lay on the ground. Hours later, he was pronounced dead. What followed wasn’t just a murder investigation - it was a case that exposed a deep divide in Irish society, focusing on the Dublin southside rugby schools and Blackrock College in particular.

Host; Fionnán Sheahan, Guest; Sarah Cadden

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Father Ted's Graham Linehan arrested by armed police amidst Trans controversy

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:08:14 GMT

Irish man Graham Linehan is one of the brains behind one of TV’s finest ever comedies – Father Ted. He is now a self-described ‘gender critical’ activist, causing much controversy and offence to those who believe in trans rights. In the latest twist, he was arrested by five armed police over posts made on X in April of this year.

How did Graham Linehan go from comedic genius to such a divisive figure, and where exactly is the line between free speech and hate speech?

Ciarán Dunbar joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s deputy features editor, Gillian Halliday, and from our news desk, Brett Campbell.

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IRA Stormont Spy Ring: What secret files reveal about Denis Donaldson and the Stormont crisis

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 23:05:00 GMT

When an IRA Stormont spy ring was alleged in 2002, devolution quickly plunged into crisis. A PSNI raid on Sinn Féin's Stormont offices discovered a map of castle buildings with instructions on bypassing security, and intelligence on the prison service, including personal details of prison officers. But in 2004, Denis Donaldson – the most senior republican arrested during the raids – admitted he had been a British agent all along. Months later he was murdered in Donegal.

Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride has been back in the archives and has unearthed fresh details on the Stormont spy ring scandal, he joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The IRA’s Heathrow attacks, a massive lie, and enduring love

Sun, 31 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

In March 1994 the IRA attacked Heathrow Airport with mortar bombs, they were high profile and highly symbolic acts.

One of those involved was Glasgow-born IRA man Michael Gallagher.

He was eventually arrested and charged but he managed to convince his English partner Mary Attenborough that he was innocent. Mary then campaigned for what she thought was justice for Michael.

But when he was convicted and given a twenty-year sentence, he decided he had to tell her the truth. Amazingly, they are still together – and have written a book about their experiences – it's called ‘Unbroken: Secrets, Lies and Enduring Love’.

Mary Attenborough and Michael Gallagher joined Ciarán Dunbar in the BelTel studio.

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Lord Alderdice: Dossier alleging bullying in Presbyterian Church still with Charity Commission three years later

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Lord Alderdice is a former leader of the Alliance Party in Northern Ireland who still sits in the House of Lords. He has a background steeped in Presbyterian in Northern Ireland but resigned from the church in 2018. Having heard about allegations of bullying and harassment within the Presbyterian Church, he commissioned a dossier outlining the experiences of some whose claims included being falsely accused of inappropriate sexual relationships, being subjected to kangaroo court style systems as well as being shunned and gaslighted.

Sunday Life journalist Angela Davison is joined by Lord John Alderdice.

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Nine murders in nine weeks: Northern Ireland’s problems with violence continue

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 16:19:03 GMT

The death of a man in Newcastle brings the number of people murdered in Northern Ireland in the past nine weeks to nine, with twelve people murdered so far this year. 84-year-old pensioner Sean Small was found dead in his Newcastle home on Sunday night. The week before, a west Belfast father was stabbed to death in his home. Named locally as Shane Lowry, the 32-year-old's brother has been charged with the killing.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Liam Tunney and our Crime Correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Kew Files: Jeffrey Donaldson secretly told governments he wasn't as hardline as they thought

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Donaldson walked away from the Good Friday Agreement talks but formerly secret files show that he was far from a staunch hardliner, Hours before the deal was signed, the then Lagan Valley MP famously left Castle Buildings in protest at what the UUP was about to sign up to. Jeffrey Donaldson was the political hardliner – at least in public. But newly declassified documents reveal that in private – Donaldson was a very different politician – a moderate, a man with ambitions to lead unionism.

Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar with the story.

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Loyalism, what do loyalist women want, and why they don’t trust the media or that O'Neill and Little-Pengelly are in control

Sun, 24 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

"Im convinced Michelle O'Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly aren't working off their on agenda and their own mind" - that’s the verdict of a leading female loyalist. The ‘PUL’ Community – Protestants, Unionists, Loyalists. There is sometimes debate over what those terms actually mean. That debate is suggested as being a factor in a reluctance of loyalist figures to speak to the media – especially loyalist women. What is a loyalist, are members of the PUL community media shy and is it worse for loyalist women?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Leanne Abernethy is the creator of Herstory: Women in Loyalism and Academic consultant Joanna McMinn who is part of the National Womens Council.

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The Killings of the Reavey Brothers: Eugene Reavey tells the story of the murders and the role he believes Willie Frazier played

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

On the 4th of January 1976, UVF gunmen burst in to a house in Whitecross, in South Armagh. They shot three young brothers, John Martin, Brian, and Anthony Reavey. John Martin and Brian died at the scene – Anthony died almost a month later. Their brother Eugene Reavey has now written a book - ‘The Killings of the Reavey Brothers: British murder and cover-up in Northern Ireland’. Eugene Reavey believes loyalist Willie Frazer played a role in the murders.

Eugene Reavey joins Niamh Campbell in the studio to tell the story.

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Kneecap’s Mo Chara’s terror charge case judgment delayed over technical legal argument

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:24:20 GMT

The judge hearing Kneecap member Mo Chara’s terror charge case needs more time to think about what he’s going to do next. 27-year-old Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh from Ballymurphy was charged in May, over the alleged display of a banned Hezbollah flag at a gig in north London.The case has become stuck over a technical argument over the timing of the charge against the rapper. "Keep talking about Palestine, this is just a distraction", the rapper told supporters outside the court.

Belfast Telegraph reporter Niamh Campbell was in London.

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LucidTalk: TUV, unionist pacts, bonfires and bilingual signs

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The TUV has dramatically emerged as the third most popular party in Northern Ireland in the latest BelTel / LucidTalk polling. Most unionists want electoral pacts, a significant minority even want the existing parties to merge. Most of those polled want a commission to regulate bonfires and flags and less than a third of our readers agree with Belfast City Council’s dual Irish-English language signage policy.

Ciarán Dunbar joined by the head of LucidTalk. Bill White, commentator Alex Kane, commentator Ursula Savage, and by Belfast Telegraph reporter Andrew Madden.

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The Gunmen: The Nutting Squad, who were the IRA's security team really loyal to?

Sun, 17 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The IRA's internal security unit, responsible for hunting down informers and executing them, was known as 'The Nutting Squad'. Ruthless, cruel, efficient, but riddled with informers - promoting questions, who were they actually loyal to? Paddy ‘PM’ Monaghan has been reported as a British agent, making him the third senior member to be suspected of being a double agent. Its top tier also included the likes of Freddie Scappaticci and leader, John Joe Magee, who are both now believed to have been spies themselves. How did this group, who had access to some of the IRA's most guarded secrets become riddled with double agents?

Presenter Kevin Doyle is joined by Allison Morris, columnist with the Belfast Telegraph, to look at the brutality of the 'Nutting Squad' and whether its senior ranks were loyal to the IRA or to the British.

This podcast was first released in September 2023.

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Allison Morris: East Belfast fox-baiter Neil Pinkerton behind racist ‘patrols’ now banned by TikTok

Thu, 14 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

‘Racism, pure and simple’ - that’s the PSNI’s assessment of an anti-migrant group roaming the streets of east Belfast. The self-styled vigilantes were posting their antics to TikTok, which has now banned them. Sometimes accompanied by dogs the group have been demanding to see IDs, have made threats on doorsteps, and have been enquiring about work-statuses. One the main movers in the group is dog ‘hunter’ Neil Pinkerton.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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The Gunmen: Colm Murphy, the life-time south Armagh republican found liable for Omagh

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

South Armagh republican Colm Murphy was at various points a member of the Provisional IRA, the INLA and the Real IRA. In his later years, he was linked to the Óglaigh na hÉireann dissident group. He had been convicted but later acquitted of involvement in the Omagh bombing. He was later found liable in a civil court for the 1998 attack which killed 29 people, including a woman pregnant with twins. Colm Murphy died at the age of 70 of a degenerative lung disease in April 2023.

The Belfast Telegraph’s Security Correspondent Allison Morris profiles him.

This episode was originally published on 21 April 2023.

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Sam McBride on the DUP’s route to power sharing - denials, flattery of Ian Paisley’s ego and secret Sinn Féin talks

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Flattery, deceit, a bung, MI5, and the secret back-channel to Sinn Féin- uncovered files have revealed the DUP’s route to power-sharing. Publicly the DUP refused to talk to Sinn Féin, but the truth was that the party was in direct talks with republicans.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride who reveals what he has discovered in the secret files.

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“I know evil is an over an overused word, but he was evil”: Detective who solved NI’s longest cold case

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

In September 1966 the body of a baby girl – Lynda Cochrane – was discovered at Ballykinler Army Base in County Down. It wasn’t until 2006 when former soldier Harry Doyle was arrested after telling an ex-lover that his disability was an act of divine punishment for the killing of a baby. Just months before he was due to stand trial, he died.

Former Detective Superintendent Tim Hanley led the investigation into Northern Ireland’s longest cold case – he joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Peter ‘the Punt’ Robinson and the the loyalist ‘invasion’ of Clontibret

Sun, 03 Aug 2025 23:05:00 GMT

In the early hours of 7 August 1986, hundreds of Ulster Loyalists, some in paramilitary uniforms, spilled over the border and into the County Monaghan village of Clontibret. A trail of destruction ensued, and Gardaí were attacked with two officers ending up in hospital. The so-called ‘invasion’ was led by then DUP Deputy leader Peter Robinson. He was later convicted of unlawful assembly and given a fine. Ian Paisley said Robinson alone was responsible for the incident, Robinson blamed Paisley.

To revisit the infamous Clontibret Invasion – Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride.

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Paddy Kielty and Cat Deeley’s shock split and is Liam Neeson going out with Pamela Anderson?

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 17:00:00 GMT

From the parish newsletter to the daily death notices, we like to keep tabs on the comings and goings of life around us. And when it comes to celebrities, especially where fame and romance collide, we just can't look away. Take this week, for example, when TV power couple Patrick Kielty and Cat Deeley announced their separation. But just how difficult is it to navigate a relationship under the unforgiving glare of the celebrity spotlight? And why are we, the public, so captivated by the rise and fall of celebrity couples?

Host: Tessa Fleming Guest: Melanie Finn

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London UDA ‘transitions’ into an “old comrades association”

Thu, 31 Jul 2025 21:00:00 GMT

There are reports that the London UDA has transitioned into an “old comrades association”. The faction fundraised for loyalist activities in Northern Ireland during the troubles, and at times took part in smuggling weapons for the UDA. Two of the London UDA’s leading members, far-right activists Frank Portinari and Eddie Whicker, were arrested in Birmingham sting operation in May 1993.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Dr. Aaron Edwards - an academic, author, and security analyst who broke this story.

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Banbridge schoolgirl turned Islamic terrorist 'White Widow', connected to 7/7 attacks, remains at large

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The so-called ‘White Widow’ is one of the world’s most wanted Islamic terror suspects. Samantha Lewthwaite has been linked to 400 deaths and the 7/7 attacks, and is alleged to remain at large in Somalia. She’s been on the wanted list in multiple countries for 20 years – and she’s from Banbridge.

How did she go from County Down schoolgirl to a hunted Al-Qaeda suspect?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter James McNaney.

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Sole suspect in Fermanagh shooting tragedy, Ian Rutledge, dies in hospital

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 13:41:25 GMT

The only suspect in the murder investigation into the fatal shootings of a mother and her two children in Co Fermanagh has died. Ian Rutledge (43) passed away from self-inflicted gun wounds on Monday. Rutledge was married to Vanessa Whyte (43) and was the father of her two children, James (14) and Sara (13). Vanessa and Sara were found dead in their Maguiresbridge home last Wednesday morning. James was taken to hospital in Enniskillen but died from his injuries later that day.

With the latest, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday Life reporter – Angela Davison.

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The Miami Showband Massacre: "They tried to wipe out the entire band"

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 00:00:00 GMT

In 1960s Ireland, the showband scene was a massive cultural phenomenon. Ballrooms filled up night after night across the country, and at its heart was The Miami Showband, who were so beloved they were dubbed ‘The Irish Beatles’. But on July 31, 1975, everything changed. After a gig in Banbridge, Co Down, five members were stopped at what seemed a routine army checkpoint - some of the soldiers were real members of the British military, but all were members of the UVF. What followed left the showband world shattered and survivors forever scarred by an act of unimaginable violence.

Host: Tessa Fleming Guests: Liam Collins and Des Lee.

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South-East Antrim UDA starts ‘winding down’ but rule out disbanding

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Talk of loyalist paramilitaries disbanding is now generally seen as extremely unlikely. Cynicism abounds as to whether these armed groups will ever ‘transition’ into peaceful organisations – and of course whether they really can abandon rampant and lucrative criminality. But there does seem to have been some movement in a very unlikely place, the South-East Antrim UDA.

The Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Fermanagh in shock after woman and children murdered in their own home

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 11:25:32 GMT

Three members of a family have been murdered in Maguiresbridge. The mother and her two children were shot in their family home – with two of them dying at the scene – another in hospital. Another person – a man – was seriously injured and is currently in hospital in Belfast. The PSNI say a so-called ‘murder-suicide’ is one line of inquiry and that it is “not anticipated at this stage that any further arrests will be made”.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter – Abdullah Sabri.

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Jeffery Dudgeon on the story of the NI Gay Rights Association and his doubts about ‘queer’ activism today

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

In the 1970s and early 1980s, Jeffrery Dugdeon was the public face of the gay rights movement in Northern Ireland. He was a prominent figure in the campaign again laws targeting homosexuals – a campaign which endured a vicious backlash in the shape of Ian Paisley’s ‘Save Ulster from sodomy’ group. His victory in the campaign for decriminalisation has now been beautifully told in a short film from the BBC called ‘Outlasting’. The piece was directed by Lewis Doherty.

Mr Lewis and Mr Dudgeon joined Ciarán Dunbar on the BelTel.

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Former Presbyterian minister had mental breakdown after his congregation spied on him for months

Sun, 20 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

A Presbyterian minister in South Belfast revealed how he suffered a mental breakdown after his congregation spied on him for months making detailed ‘Spy Charts’ on his every movement. The covert surveillance all stemming from whether or not he was living in the church manse. After the church’s own investigation found no charges against the minister he was then removed from the church as ' his position was untenable because of the breakdown in relationships'.

It's the latest in a series of controversies involving the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, covered by the Sunday Life and Belfast Telegraph. Guest Angela Davison joins Ciaran Dunbar.

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West Belfast mobile users left ‘dataless’ as 5G masts keep getting burned

Thu, 17 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Arsonists have destroyed 17 mobile phone masts in the greater Belfast area in the last two years. Most incidents happened in the west of the city, with west Belfast Sinn Féin MP Paul Maskey saying the attacks are “fuelled by inaccuracies and misconceptions”. At the end of last month, attacks appeared to spread beyond west Belfast as another mast was set alight on the Doagh Road in Newtownabbey.

Why are the masts being attacked and who is behind them?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Visuals Editor Kevin Scott.

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All-star Hurler DJ Carey’s €415,000 cancer fraud, Texas trips, and the Croke Park Conundrum

Wed, 16 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

DJ Carey, once hailed as hurling royalty, now stands at the centre of a deception scandal that shook Ireland and reached as far as Texas. He pleaded guilty to 10 counts of deception after an alleged cancer diagnosis helped him extract over €400,000 by duping generous friends and even tapping into wealthy circles in Texas during trips to Dallas – all the time he was chasing aid he didn’t need.

Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Amy Molloy and Colm Keys.

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The Open: McIlroy mania sweeps Portrush as locals slam ‘extortionate’ price hikes

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The green is ready, fans are arriving, and the good and great of golf have flocked to Portrush for the open. All eyes are on Rory McIlroy after he achieved golfing immortality in the form of the career grand slam in April. As over 250,000 international fans pour into Portrush, locals have slammed food and accommodation price hikes, including one local spot charging almost £27 for fish and chips.

Olivia Peden is joined from Royal Portrush by Belfast Telegraph’s chief sportswriter Steven Beacom and Sport Journalist Adam McKendry to look ahead to what the open holds.

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William McKee: Former Maze Prison Governor on the day Billy Wright was killed, Johnny ‘Mad Dog’ Adair, and several attempts on his life

Sun, 13 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

William McKee is a former governor of the Maze Prison. He was the senior Governor in charge of the Prison on the 27th December 1997 – the day that LVF Godfather Billy Wright was murdered inside the prison wall. McKee has faced multiple murder attempts and had to relocate houses several times due to his career. His new book 'Collusion: Inside the Maze' is describde as a fictional exploration of the events surrounding Wright's murder.

He joined Ciarán Dunbar to talk about what working on the day of Wright’s murder was like, his relationships with paramilitary prisoners, and the multiple attempts on his life as a result on his career.

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July Bonfires: A sectarian safety risk, or a harmless tradition?

Thu, 10 Jul 2025 21:05:00 GMT

The Twelfth of July is a day of joy, pride, and nostalgia for Unionists and Loyalists in Northern Ireland. The night before, bonfires will be lit across the country - a tradition that began when fires on hillsides were used to signal William of Orange’s march from Carrickfergus to the Battle of the Boyne. But a night of tradition and celebration for some is viewed by others as physically dangerous, and in some cases, undeniably sectarian.

Are bonfires a sectarian safety risk, or just a harmless tradition?

Olivia Peden is joined by Sam McBride, Loyalist activist Moore Holmes, and the chairman of the Schomberg Ulster Scots society in Kilkeel, Gareth Crozier.

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BelTel Sport: Stephen O’Neill reflects on iconic Tyrone/Kerry rivalry ahead of semifinal showdown

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

We’re now in the melting pot of the GAA season, and two Ulster counties remain in the All-Ireland semifinals. Tyrone, who have a shot at a treble success after after their minor and under 20’s teams have won All-Ireland finals this weekend, are due to face Kerry this weekend.

Niamh Campbell is joined by Tyrone legend and three-time All-Ireland winner Stephen O’Neill, and Belfast Telegraph GAA columnist Lee Costello.

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What disbandment would mean for the UVF | Allison Morris explains

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Senior loyalists and Key members of the Northern Ireland office have dismissed allegations that The UVF are on the verge of disbanding. One reported condition for the group’s disbandment was the formation of a 240-strong armed 'close protection team' to provide security for its ageing leadership - that suggestion has been branded 'farcical'. How close really are the UVF to disbanding, why are figures like Lord Alderdice saying its time to stop transition talks, and what would a transition look like?

Belfast Telegraph’s Allison Morris joins Olivia Peden to answer some of the big questions.

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NAMA Trial concludes: What’s next for Jamie Bryson and Daithí Mckay?

Sun, 06 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Loyalist activist Jamie Bryson, former Sinn Féin MLA Daithí McKay and former Sinn Féin election candidate and party worker Thomas O’Hara have been acquitted of charges concerning misconduct in public office.All three had repeatedly denied the charges. Judge Gordon Kerr KC said he believed that Mr Bryson, who has ambitions of pursuing a career as a barrister, had lied under oath in the trial – allegations he strongly denies. McKay said that the verdict wasn't the "last chapter" of the Nama story.

How did the trial unfold and what’s next for Bryson, McKay and the Nama story?

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph's Liam Tunney.

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Sam McBride: The mystery of Ian Paisley Jr’s office – three mortgages, a dead man’s name and a mystery owner (Part 2)

Thu, 03 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

A Belfast Telegraph investigation has uncovered some strange actions concerning Ian Paisley Jr's constituency office in Ballymena, including thousands in unpaid bills that led to red letters and threats of court appearances. Who is the mystery owner of the now vacant office, and why were three mortgages taken out on the property?

In part two of this special investigation, Sam McBride joins Olivia Peden.

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Sam McBride: The mystery of Ian Paisley Jr’s office – unpaid rates, red letters and court action (Part 1)

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 23:05:00 GMT

When Ian Paisley Jr lost his parliamentary seat last July, it was the end of an era. Once Westminster’s most expensive MP, Paisley Jr had built a political career on the legacy of his famous father – but it wasn’t without scandal. A Belfast Telegraph investigation has uncovered some strange financial dealings around his constituency office, which is now owned by the unnamed representative of a dead man. Authorities also had to repeatedly threaten court action to secure payment of the rates bill for his office in Ballymena.

In part 1 of a special investigation, Sam McBride joins Olivia Peden.

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Conor McGregor’s civil rape appeal begins: Claim Nikita Hand was assaulted by ex-partner dramatically dropped

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:16:31 GMT

Conor McGregor’s appeal against a ruling in a civil rape case has began. In November 2024, Nikita Hand, who accused him of raping her, won her claim against him for damages, with McGregor ordered to pay her more than €248,000 (£206,000). Lawyers for McGregor have dramatically withdrawn a bid to introduce new evidence in his civil rape appeal. The MMA fighter had asked the Court of Appeal to allow in new claims that Nikita Hand was punched and kicked by her then partner just hours after she says she was raped by McGregor in 2018. However, the allegations, made by former neighbours of Ms Hand, were withdrawn as a ground of appeal this morning.

Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Shane Phelan, Legal Affairs Editor with the Irish Independent, to unpack a busy opening day in Conor McGregor's civil rape appeal.

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Cormac Moore: The Boundary Commission and why it didn’t change Northern Ireland’s border

Sun, 29 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Boundary Commission was set up in 1924 following partition. Nationalists had hoped that the Commission would transfer hundreds of thousands to the Irish Free state, even make Northern Ireland unviable. But in the end, nothing was handed over.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Cormac Moore, author of ‘The Root of All Evil: The Irish Boundary Commission’.

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Noah Donohoe: Key questions remain as inquest into teenager’s death nears

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Noah Donohoe’s body was found in a north Belfast storm drain on the 27th June 2020. The teenager had left his home in the south of the city to meet up with friends six days earlier. As an inquest, which has faced delays, nears, questions about the tragic and highly unusual death remain.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Andrew Madden to detail the story.

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EXTRA: The race to 2025 All-Ireland GAA Final begins - Do Armagh and Tyrone have what it takes?

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 23:00:00 GMT

Excitement is mounting across the island as the race to the 2025 All-Ireland final begins. Tyrone will face Dublin and reigning champions Armagh are due to face Kerry in Croke Park this weekend. Will Armagh have what it takes to bring it home for a second year in a row, and could Tyrone’s bad luck finally turn into success?

Niamh Campbell is joined by former All-Ireland winner and Armagh All-Star Diarmaid Marsden, and Belfast Telegraph GAA columnist, Lee Costello.

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Will northerners get a vote in Ireland’s presidential election? | Sam McBride and David McCann discuss

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Michael D. Higgins has been President of Ireland since November 2011, his presidency must end in November this year – that means an election. But unlike many other countries, not every Irish citizen has a vote. Only those living in the ‘State’ - the Republic of Ireland, can vote. Now a bill is before the Dáil, which if passed would allow northerners to vote in the presidential election, subject to a referendum,

How likely is this change? How would it affect the vote? And what would Unionists make of it?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by David McCann and Sam McBride.

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EXTRA: Trump bombs Iran, backs Israel, and takes a massive gamble

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:29:17 GMT

Despite all of the claims he made that he was not be a president of war, Donald Trump has now rolled the dice, striking Iran’s nuclear sites. Above all, it is a massive show of support for Israel and Benjamin Netanyahu. Whilst it might have caused massive damage to Iran's nuclear program, it’s a move that could ignite a regional firestorm, set a worrying precedent in how countries engage in conflict and send oil prices through the roof.

Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East Correspondent with The Economist joins Tabitha Monahan to discuss what might come next after a troubling 2 days for international relations.

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The 1975 IRA Provo-Stickie feud which left 11 dead and scarred Belfast

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

This year sees the 50th anniversary of one of the bloodiest feuds between the Provisional and Official IRA. Described as the worst inter-republican fighting since the Irish Civil War, October and November 1975 saw the Provisional and Official IRA battle it out in Belfast.

It left 11 dead, including a 6-year-old Eileen Kelly, and around 50 wounded, and also left deep scars in Belfast’s nationalist communities.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Brian Hanley.

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Beltel Sport: Stuart Dallas- “The togetherness at Euro 2016 was something special”

Sat, 21 Jun 2025 06:00:00 GMT

Leeds United and Northern Ireland legend Stuart Dallas joins Keith Bailie and Steven Beacom to reflect on his incredible playing career that took him from Hagan Park in Coagh to Elland Road and the Premier League.

The Cookstown man recalls life in the Irish League, working under Argentine manager Marcelo Biesla, the heartbreaking injury that ended his career and why Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville was wrong to call his challenge ‘utter madness’.

Dallas also reflects on the ninth anniversary of Northern Ireland’s adventure in French. The King of Lyon will be joined on stage at the Ulster Hall next year by teammates Steven Davis, Josh Magennis and Niall McGinn for special commemorative event, ‘Euro 2016: Ten Years On’

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‘Tattle Life’ exposed: The NI couple who took the infamous gossip site on in court and won

Thu, 19 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

‘Tattle Life’ is a website where gossip runs wild, reputations are trashed and anonymity is king, where influencers and content creators often found themselves at the centre of abuse and lies. NI based couple Neil and Donna Sands took the prolific gossip site on in court – and won. The legal victory, which netted the couple a £300,000 payout, marks the first time the site’s founder has been unmasked.

The Irish Independent’s Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Neil Sands to discuss how he tracked down and unmasked Tattle Life’s owner.

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Chaos in London as Kneecap’s Mo Chara appears in court over terror charge

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 15:20:55 GMT

It was pandemonium in London on Wednesday morning as Kneecap’s Mo Chara appeared at Westminster Magistrates Court. Hundreds turned out to support the rapper, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, as he entered court – having arrived in a mocked up RUC landover. The west Belfast rapper is charged with a terror offence over the alleged display of a Hezbollah flag at a concert in London last year.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris who was in court and BelTel assistant producer Olivia Peden.

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A week on from Ballymena riots, the post mortem begins

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

A week from the riots in Ballymena, the dust is beginning to settle. The violence has been universally condemned, but is it enough to condemn the rioters without a conversation on immigration?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride and Allison Morris.

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Noraid: The IRA and Sinn Féin’s American wing, Martin Galvin, and where the money went

Sun, 15 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

It was the Irish American organisation whose aim was a united ireland – and whose method was lobbying politicians in Washington – and above all, fundraising. From lavish dinners to buckets in Irish pubs in the US, they collected millions of dollars for the Republican cause. But the question was always – where did the money go?

RTÉ is set to run a two-part documentary Noraid: Irish-America and the IRA. T It was written and directed by Kevin Brannigan – he joined Ciarán Dunbar on the BelTel.

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Ballymena race riots continue: Larne Leisure centre attacked and PSNI threatened with hatchet

Thu, 12 Jun 2025 14:42:13 GMT

Larne leisure centre has been extensively damaged after being attacked by youths. Onlookers cheered and laughed while attacking the building after it was used as an emergency centre by those affected by the riots. Trouble has continued in Ballymena, with petrol bombs thrown at police, a water cannon deployed and multiple houses attacked.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Gabrielle Swan and Kevin Scott, who were at the scene.

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PSNI officers injured and houses destroyed in Ballymena race riots

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:41:53 GMT

Houses were destroyed and 15 officers were injured during serious disorder in Ballymena on Monday night. Large crowds had attended an earlier anti-immigration protest in the Co. Antrim town, after two 14-year-old Romanian boys were charged with a serious sexual assault.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Journalist Liam Tunney and Visuals Editor Kevin Scott, who was at the scene.

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Iris Robinson and the affair scandal which shocked Northern Ireland

Sun, 08 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

In the early 2000s, Peter and Iris Robinson were seen as Northern Ireland’s political power couple. Iris, known for her strong Christian values, secretly had an affair with 19-year-old Kirk McCambley, whose late father had entrusted her with his care. In 2008, she helped McCambley secure over £50,000 to open a café, allegedly taking £5,000 for herself—money she failed to declare as required in her role as a councillor. The affair and financial misconduct, once exposed, caused a political and media storm, shocking the public.

Olivia Peden revisits this explosive scandal with The Belfast Telegraph’s Suzanne Breen and Sam McBride.

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How Richard Satchwell almost got away with murder: "He told lies, upon lies, upon lies”

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Richard Satchwell has been given a life sentence for the brutal murder of his wife, Tina Satchwell. In March 2017, Satchwell began a media tour, saying that she was missing, but he believed she was alive. In reality, he had killed her, keeping her body in a freezer before burying her remains in their home. Her remains were undiscovered for six and a half years. Garda believe that he murdered Tina in fear of her finding out that he had become involved in a scam to obtain two pet monkeys.

Olivia Peden is joined by the Irish Independent’s Ralph Riegel.

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‘I had 9 death threats in under a year’: Life as an NI Journalist under threat

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland is officially the most dangerous place in the UK to be a journalist. A new report published by Amnesty International this week says that journalists here are working in a ‘climate of fear’ with numerous death threats against them. The report says that there have been over 70 incidents of threats or attacks against journalists since the start of 2019.

Olivia Peden is joined by Allison Morris and Ciaran Barnes to uncover what working as a journalist under threat in Northern Ireland is really like.

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Meet the Macrons: ‘Slapgate’, controversies and bizarre conspiracy theories

Sun, 01 Jun 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Social media became alight this week after French president Emmanuel Macron was caught on camera seemingly being slapped by his wife Brigitte. An awkward smile and wave when he realised the slap had been noticed just fuelled the rumours. The couple, who met when Brigitte Macron was then 15-year-old Emmanuel’s drama teacher, have long fascinated the public. The First Lady has also been subject to one of the most bizarre conspiracy theories out there.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Paris-based Journalist Catherine Field.

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Gerry Adams wins his defamation case against the BBC

Fri, 30 May 2025 14:35:32 GMT

A jury in Dublin has awarded Gerry Adams €100,000 in damages. The former Sinn Féin leader won his High Court defamation action against the BBC on Friday morning. It followed a five-week defamation trial. The jury agreed with Mr Adams that a BBC Spotlight programme, defamed him by alleging he sanctioned the killing of former Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson – he has always denied any involvement.

Mark Tighe reports.

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Referees ensure UVF’s Winkie Irvine given lenient sentence for firearms charges

Thu, 29 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

UVF commander Winston ‘Winkie’ Irvine has been jailed after being caught with guns. He was sentenced to 30 months with half served on license after being caught with weapons and ammunition in the boot of his car. The judge said Irvine’s work as a ‘peacemaker’ meant that the minimum five-year tariff was inappropriate after glowing references from high-profile government and security officials were heard in court.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride.

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Lucid Talk polling: Kneecap, Sinn Féin, Irish signs and what is a woman

Tue, 27 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The latest Belfast Telegraph Lucid Talk polling shows sharp divisions on some touchstone societal issues. Among the issues surveyed in the latest poll were whether rap band Kneecap should be banned from performing at Belfast Vital, assisted dying and the Supreme Court’s ruling on gender and defining what a woman is. In terms of party political support, the poll reveals the DUP are still in a rut and that power in Stormont is taking the shine off Sinn Féin.

Ciarán Dunbar joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen.

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Kincora: Lord Mountbatten, MI5, William McGrath and Tara – the search for the truth

Sun, 25 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Kincora was a home for vulnerable boys in east Belfast – but controlled by paedophiles. It was a place where dozens of boys and teenagers were abused. It was run by William McGrath, a leading loyalist. McGrath has long been believed to have been an MI5 agent – and the agency has long been accused of endeavouring to cover up what happened. But perhaps the most shocking allegation to come out of the home – some of the victims believe that they were abused by Lord Mountbatten - a mentor to King Charles.

Chris Moore’s new book is entitled Britain’s Shame – Mountbatten, MI5, the Belfast Boys’ Home Sex Abuse Scandal and the British Cover-Up.

He joined Ciarán Dunbar in the studio.

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Gerry Adams’ BBC defamation trial: Jury hears final arguments

Fri, 23 May 2025 16:12:42 GMT

A jury in a Dublin court has heard a third week of evidence in the Gerry Adams defamation trial. The former Sinn Féin leader is suing the BBC over a claim made in a Spotlight program – that he gave the go ahead for Dennis Donaldson to be murdered. Gerry Adams vehemently denies any involvement in the killing.

Mark Tighe joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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EXTRA: Kneecap's Mo Chara faces charge under terrorism act over Hezbollah flag

Thu, 22 May 2025 14:29:04 GMT

When west Belfast rapper Mo Chara, Liam Óg Ó hAnnaidh, of Kneecap allegedly displayed a Hezbollah flag on stage in London, he didn’t just spark controversy – he triggered a UK terrorism investigation and has now been charged. The group says it’s political policing: the UK authorities says it’s national security.

Dave Hanratty speaks to Enda Brady.

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Former PSNI officer challenges ‘Sean’ allegations of anti-Catholic sectarianism in the force

Tue, 20 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

One of the PSNI’s first Catholic recruits, told the Belfast Telegraph he had faced sectarianism, including references to “Fenian b******s”. Despite Chief Constable Jon Boutcher saying the allegations will not be investigated by a court or by the PSNI. ‘Sean’s’ solicitor says he’s standing by everything he’s alleged but has dropped threatened legal action.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride who broke the story, and former senior PSNI Officer Jon Burrows, who strongly disputes the claims.

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Bryson, McKay and O’Hara misconduct trial to begin in Belfast – Allison Morris reports

Sun, 18 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Loyalist Jamie Bryson, former Sinn Fein MLA Daithi McKay and party member Thomas O’Hara will be standing trial at Belfast Crown Court charged with conspiracy to commit misconduct in public office. All three deny the offences. The charges relate to a meeting of the Stormont Finance Committee in September 2015, which Mr Bryson gave evidence to, during a review of the sale of the Nama property loan portfolio in Northern Ireland.

Belfast Telegraph’s Crime Correspondent Allison Morris joined Ciarán Dunbar me.

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Gerry Adams defamation case: BBC vigorously defends its journalism

Fri, 16 May 2025 14:43:08 GMT

The former Sinn Féin leader Gerry Adams is suing the BBC over allegations made in a Spotlight programme that he sanctioned the murder of Denis Donaldson – an allegation he vehemently denies. The BBC were the centre of attention this week as the case against the broadcaster in a Dublin court continues.

Sunday Independent journalist Mark Tighe spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Skortgate: The ‘totally absurd’ row over what Camogie players wear

Thu, 15 May 2025 15:04:41 GMT

Camogie players have criticised the sport’s association for kit rules deemed as ‘archaic’. Traditionally, camogie players have worn skorts in their kit, but players are now asking for the choice to wear shorts. Following widespread disruption over the issue, a vote is due to take place next week. Are camogie skorts sexist, or just a harmless tradition?

Olivia Peden is joined by the Belfast Telegraph reporters Niamh Campbell and Jessica Rice.

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Starmer’s “island of strangers” migration crackdown and what it means for NI

Tue, 13 May 2025 14:47:38 GMT

Sir Keir Starmer has set out plans to reduce migration saying high figures have caused “incalculable” damage to British society. He says Britain risks becoming an “island of strangers” without better integration. But what will these plans mean for Northern Ireland?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by David McCann and by Enda Brady.

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Gerry Adams accused BBC barrister of trying to persuade a jury he has “no reputation whatsoever”

Sat, 10 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Gerry Adams has been under cross-examination in Dublin. The former Sinn Féin leader has taken a defamation case against the BBC.

He claims a Spotlight programme defamed him - by alleging he sanctioned the murder of Sinn Fein official Denis Donaldson months after admitting his role as a police and MI5 agent for 20 years – Mr Adams denies any knowledge of the killing.

Mark Tighe has been covering the case for the Sunday Independent, he joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Séamus Ruddy: The Newry man ‘disappeared’ by INLA in Paris

Thu, 08 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Séamus Ruddy was 33 when he was abducted, tortured, shot dead and buried in secret in northern France by the INLA in 1985. A former member of the IRSP, His killers believed he knew the location of an arms dump in northern France. The murder became part bloody schism within the INLA that left over a dozen men dead. After an extensive family campaign his remains were found in a forest in May 2017.

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Conclave: White smoke and dark secrets, Catholic cardinals are choosing the next pope

Thu, 08 May 2025 07:02:02 GMT

In centuries past, the word 'conclave' meant Catholic cardinals were literally locked away until a new pope had been elected. Today, it's the world that's locked out, as people await the unmistakable white smoke. In this episode, we lift the veil on the politics, power and prayers involved in electing a new pope. Why are phones confiscated? Who really pulls the strings? And who is the cardinal who has been banned from Conclave?

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Kew Files: Sam McBride on what secret files reveal about David Ervine, Gerry Kelly and the UDA

Tue, 06 May 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Why did supposed peacemaker David Ervine threaten to “bomb the **** out of Dublin”, why did the British Government allow the UDA to be a legal organisation for so long, and what does Gerry Kelly think of claims that he was put in charge of restructuring the IRA?

The Belfast Telegraph’s Sam McBride found the answer to those questions in secret files at the Kew Archives in London; He joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Meet the ‘freemen of the land’ who believe they are above the law

Sun, 04 May 2025 10:45:23 GMT

A Co Down man charged with raping and falsely imprisoning a woman has been on the run for almost two years after refusing to attend his trial, claiming to be a freeman of the land. It’s “false philosophy that is all too frequently before the court,” is the view of Newry judge Eamonn King about the so-called ‘freeman’ defence.

What is this all about?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph crime correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Kneecap: Terror cops confirm 'grounds for further investigation', politicians push for bans, musicians rally

Thu, 01 May 2025 16:11:32 GMT

Rap band Kneecap maintain they have "faced a coordinated smear campaign" in recent days over their pro-Palestinian stance. Tory leader Kemi Badenoch wants the band banned and almost all MPs want Glastonbury to ditch them. Anti-terror police are investigating them. Where and when will these controversies end?

Belfast Telegraph reporter Kurtis Reid joins Ciarán Dunbar

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Officials say minister wrong to suggest opinion polls will trigger Irish border vote – who is right?

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Northern Ireland under-secretary of state Fleur Anderson has said publicly that opinion polls will determine if and when a referendum on Irish unity is called. It’s never been exactly clear what would trigger a poll on a united Ireland – so has she overstepped the mark, made a mistake or actually let the cat out of the bag.

And who are this middle-ground who have the magic votes?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Professor Jon Tonge from the University of Liverpool and political commentator Ursula Savage.

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Austin Stack: ‘The IRA couldn’t admit my father’s murder was sanctioned because of political repercussions’

Sun, 27 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Brian Stack was the chief officer in the maximum security Port Laoise prison, which housed IRA members.

In March 1983, he was gunned down by the IRA in Dublin after attending a boxing match – he succumbed to his wombs 18 months later. Austin Stack has long fought for the truth and for justice for his father, meeting with Sinn Féin and IRA officials, including Gerry Adams, to try and get to the bottom of the killing.

He joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sallins Train Robbery: Osgur Breatnach, a false confession, the Garda 'Heavy Gang', and convicted by a sleeping judge (Part 2)

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Sallins train robbery was one of the most daring and lucrative heists in the history of the Irish State. And for Osgur Breatnach, a journalist and activist, it was the beginning of an ordeal that haunts him to this day. He was arrested that morning in 1976, as one of six accused of carrying out the robbery. One week before Christmas of the same year, he and his co-accused were brought into the Special Criminal Court and charged with the crime. It would become one of the most dramatic and longest-running criminal trials in the history of the State.

In the final episode of this two-part documentary special, Kevin Doyle revisits the Sallins Train Robbery, speaking to Osgur Breathnach about the trial of the ‘sleeping Judge’, living with PTSD, and why he feels a public inquiry is justified for he and his co-accused.

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Sallins Train Robbery: The IRSP members wrongly imprisoned for IRA heist (Part 1)

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

On the night of March 30th, 1976, a gang of armed men held a family hostage in rural County Kildare and derailed a mail train carrying the equivalent of over €1 million in cash and valuables. It was one of the most audacious robberies in the history of the Irish state—but today, it is remembered for very different reasons. What followed was one of the longest and most controversial trials in the history of the Irish state—one that would see IRSP menber Osgur Breathnach’s conviction overturned, but not before spending 17 months in Portlaoise prison. The IRA would later claim responsibility for the Sallins robbery, and nearly five decades on, Osgur is still seeking justice for his treatment in the Bridewell Garda station and wrongful conviction.

Host; Kevin Doyle. Guest; Osgur Breathnach

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What is Micheál Martin saying (or not) about a United Ireland?

Sun, 20 Apr 2025 16:00:00 GMT

Taoiseach Micheál Martin says that he is “not planning” for a 2030 border poll. He’s currently promoting his Shared Island Initiative – which some unionists fear is a trojan horse for Irish unity but others are comfortable with. Republicans have always been distrustful of the Fianna Fáil leader. Sam McBride recently sat down with the Taoiseach, producing an interview that has sparked debate, satisfaction, and anger - has Micheal Martin really ruled out unity?

He joins Ciarán Dunbar to interpret what the Taoiseach thinks of a united Ireland.

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‘Every one of them looks like someone’s grandfather’: Belfast pensioners sentenced for running grooming gang

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Belfast pensioner Oliver MacCormack has been handed a seven-year sentence for exploiting vulnerable young women by plying them with heroin and forcing them to work as prostitutes. Three other men have already been sentenced as part of the same investigation, the oldest of which being 79. Some question whether the sentences handed out to the gang was stiff enough.

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The National Front, Tartan gangs and Combat 18: Loyalism and the far-right

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 23:04:46 GMT

How successful were far-right attempts to influence loyalism and how deep do radical right links with loyalism go today? From the National Front to Combat 18, the English far-right has tried to colonise loyalism but how successful were they?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Aaron Edwards.

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Rory McIlroy achieves sporting immortality with Masters victory

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 14:00:49 GMT

On Sunday night at Augusta National, Rory McIlroy defeated Justin Rose in a heart-stopping playoff to win the Masters for the first time in his career. The Holywood man has become the sixth person to complete a career grand slam.

In a special edition of the BelTel, Keith Bailie is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Chief Sportswriter Steven Beacom and Chief Audience Editor Gareth Hanna.

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Joe Lynskey and Robert Nairac: 'Bodies will never be found’, IRA source admits

Sun, 13 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Joe Lynskey, one of the Disappeared, was murdered by his IRA colleagues in 1972 and his body secretly buried. Remains recently found in a County Monaghan grave were hoped to belong to him, but the DNA says no. The finding leaves a new mystery - who was the extra body in the plot, and if it wasn’t Joe Lynskey - then whose remains are they? What are republican sources saying about the prospects of finding him now?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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'Burn them out': The long history of fascism and the far-right in Ireland

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Ireland has long flirted with the far-right – and has had political movements with profoundly antisemitic views. Historian Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc has written a new book - ‘Burn Them Out – A History of Fascism and The Far-Right in Ireland’ investigating the history of fascism in Ireland.

He joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sam McBride: Paul Givan and the case of the missing civil servant

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

A few months ago, one of Stormont’s most senior civil servants vanished. Mark Browne was the top official in Stormont’s Department of Education. But sources have now told the Belfast Telegraph that Mr Browne and the Education Minister Paul Givan clashed over how to tackle what is now a multi-faceted crisis in Northern Ireland’s education system.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride.

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SSPX Resistance: Who are the group behind masses Catholic Church in Derry says are ‘illicit’?

Sun, 06 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The Catholic Bishop of Derry has warned of “illicit” masses being held in the city by clergy not recongnised by the hierarchy. Bishop Dónal Mac Keown claims these services are being carried out by an ultra-conservative splinter group of the Society of Pius the Tenth known as SSPX Resistance. SSPX Resistance are certainly uncompromising traditionalists, but the splinter group has been accused of antisemitism and having ties with the far right.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter, Liam Tunney.

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Controversial Ballymena ‘brand builder’ Darren Campbell quits after months of controversy

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The owner of a controversial Ballymena based ‘brand building’ company has announced its closure. FBA Brand Builder was run by 34-year-Darren Campbell – he charged clients for his guidance on selling products to the US Market on Amazon. The Belfast Telegraph has revealed some questionable practices, including encouraging clients to lie on credit card applications and facilitating paid amazon reviews.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s Liam Tunney, who broke the story.

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Trump's tariffs: 'Brexit means NI could pay more for some goods if we're stuck in the middle of a trade war'

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 13:14:26 GMT

In a speech on America’s so-called ‘Liberation Day’, Trump accused the global community of stealing American jobs and ‘ransacking’ US industry. The President has imposed tariffs of 20% on goods from the EU, while goods from the UK, including NI, will be subject to a 10% tariff.

What do the tariffs mean for Northern Ireland, how has Brexit changed our situation, and could the tariffs start a global trade war?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Business editor Margaret Canning.

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Internment without trial: ‘The single biggest mistake that the British state makes in the Northern Ireland conflict’

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 23:05:00 GMT

Internment was a key event in the history of the Troubles; In an effort to deal with increasing violence Stormont and the British Government decided to introduce internment. Almost 2,000 people were interned up until its end in December 1975 – imprisoned without a fair trial.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Dr Peter McLoughlin and by Dr Martin McCleery.

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Secret JFK Files reveal how the CIA spied on Irish and British intelligence services

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 23:05:00 GMT

The assassination of US President JFK in November 1963 shocked the world and has inspired conspiracy theories for over 60 years. President Trump has ordered the release of classified files from the period, which have revealed that the CIA kept files on both Ireland and the UK’s military intelligence services, despite being close allies.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Abdullah Sabri and Ulster University lecturer in international history Dr Robert McNamara.

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One year on, Jeffrey Donaldson’s shock resignation and its impact on the DUP

Fri, 28 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

One year ago, 29th of March, journalists began to realise that a massive political story was breaking - -the DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson had deleted his website and social media accounts. Then a statement emerged from the DUP, Donaldson had resigned and had been suspended from the party after being charged with historical sexual offences. Jeffrey Donaldson’s wife, Eleanor Donaldson, was also facing criminal charges – all of which they both strenuously denied. How did that day play out, what was the DUP reaction and how have they DUP handled it since?

Belfast Telegraph Political Editor Suzanne Breen joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sam McBride: Secret files suggest Robert Nairac was meeting with an informant before disappearance

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Captain Robert Nairac was meeting an informer when he was abducted and murdered, secret military documents indicate. Those files, discovered by the Belfast Telegraph’s Sam McBride, also show that the Ministery of Defence was desperate that that fact would not be revealed, so desperate that it would rather his killers walked free from court than answer questions about what he was up to. Robert Nairac was murdered and secretly buried by the IRA in 1977. Since his disappearance, he has become a mythical figure shrouded in secrecy and rumour.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to reveal some of what he has found in London’s Kew archives.

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The MAGA Manosphere: Why are Conor McGregor and the UFC punching right?

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 01:00:00 GMT

From Conor McGregor to Andrew Tate, why are fans and prominent figures in the MMA and sports-combat world embracing extreme politics? Are teenage boys in the sights of the far right? And what threat does the manosphere pose to society?

Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Dave Hanratty

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Flights from hell: Do we need to clamp down on alcohol at 30,000ft?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary wants a two-drink airport limit as his airline threatens a clampdown as it tries to recover losses against disruptive passengers. Many of us simply love ‘airport pints’ but alcohol is a major source of trouble on planes. There have been a plethora of incidents involving air rage and disruptive passengers in recent years, some resulting in criminal convictions and even emergency landings.

Belfast Telegraph reporter Kurtis Reid and Belfast Telegraph columnist Fionola Meredith join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Portadown teacher Niamh Farrell denies being ‘GAA catfish’ as she wins an injunction against Dublin school

Fri, 21 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Dublin secondary school Coláiste Éanna has been embroiled in controversy after it was claimed online that one of its teachers is the notorious GAA catfish. Teacher Niamh Farrell denies being the catfish who deceived at least 40 people, including multiple Ulster GAA players. But an investigation at the school found that she confided in its principal that she was the catfish. She has now won an injunction to stop the school disciplining her.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Irish Independent’s Ellen Coyne.

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How Basil McCrea's career and party ended in utter chaos | NI21 (Part 2) - the downfall

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

NI21 appeared to many as a great idea. But the enthusiasm and positivity did not last long and the party’s collapse into chaos was a spectacular one. Just a day before the party’s first electoral test in 2014 – the party decides that they are now agnostic on the issue of the border, it was then torn apart by controversy and infighting.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to talk about how the wheels came off NI21, where the party’s leaders are now, and if a liberal unionist party could ever work.

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How two UUP MLAs broke away to find a new 'confident' path for unionism | NI21 (Part 1) - the rise

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

NI21 – A party that sought to change the direction of a century of unionist politics but ended in disaster. Two charismatic Ulster Unionist MLAs – Basil Mccrea and John McAllister - quit their party in 2013 for pastures new. But following a last-minute decision to become agnostic on the border, sexual misconduct allegations against its leader, and a host of other fiascos, things quickly fell apart.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to talk about what NI21 believed in, who the big personalities involved where, and if the party was always destined to end the way it did.

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Rosemary Nelson: RUC ‘threats’, Red Hand Defenders and alleged collusion, the murder of a Lurgan solicitor

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Rosemary Nelson died in March 1999 after a bomb exploded under her car. The Red Hand Defenders took responsibility. High-profile clients like IRA man Colin Duffy and the Garvaghy Road Residents’ association had made her a target for sectarian animosity. It was alleged she had been threatened by RUC officers.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by co-author of the book, ‘Who Killed Rosemary Nelson?’ Neil Root and Sunday Life editor Martin Breen.

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On-the-run Magilligan prisoner before courts in Rhode Island after alleged $800,000 scam

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

An unlawfully at large Magilligan Prisoner with four names is to face a court in Rhode Island.

Timothy O’Reilly, also known as Elijah Gavin, Timothy Kelly, or Elijah Thomas, was arrested in New York in January on charges of conning over $800,000 dollars from a 78-year-old woman. He has been on the run since 2022 after failing to return to Magilligan Prison after a temporary compassionate release – at the time he was facing charges over an attempt to trick another elderly woman out of £40,000. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday World’s Eamon Dillon.

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Gerard Conway inquest: 32-year-old disappeared in 2007 – witnesses testimony weaves a complex story

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Gerard Conway was last seen in Cookstown in 2007. The 32-year-old father-of-one was recorded on CCTV at a bank in the town on the 25th of January. He was officially reported missing by his family on 13th of February. Despite searches, he has never been seen since. What happened to Gerard remains a mystery, but the coroner is satisfied he is dead. An inquest has heard from family, friends and witnesses. Several of them, believed that there is a possibility that he had been murdered.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Kurtis Reid.

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PSNI Chief Con denies intrusive surveillance on journalist investigating Noah Donohoe death, Sam McBride reports

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 19:00:00 GMT

The PSNI have broken its silence on claims that it spied on journalist Donal MacIntyre, who is investing the death of teenager Noah Donohoe. The Chief Constable Jon Boucher says that “No Journalistic material was viewed, recorded, or sought by the PSNI”. He says that the PSNI only accessed information that was publicly posted on two X accounts. The PSNI also now denies breaking into the investigative journalist’s car – after they initially refused to comment.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride, who has been following the story.

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Allison Morris on the New IRA’s potential ceasefire after secret peace talks

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

The New IRA is in secret peace negations with the British and Irish governments. But the group’s leadership, who were previously arrested in an MI5 sting, is understood to be at loggerheads with hardliners over whether they should abandon their armed campaign. The New IRA is currently the most active of the dissident groups and is responsible for at least seven murders.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris, who broke the story.

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Noah Donohoe: PSNI accused of spying on journalist investigating teen’s death

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

The tragic and highly unusual nature of 14-year-old Noah Donohoe’s death in 2020, along with criticism of the police search for him, had led to substantial public concern, speculation, and anger. Two years ago, investigative journalist Donal MacIntyre began investigating the disappearance and the circumstances around it. A source has now told the Belfast Telegraph that as Mr MacIntyre began his work, the PSNI moved to put him under significant online surveillance. He says he is “disappointed but not shocked” at the PSNI allegedly spying on him.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride, who broke the story.

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Martin Dillon: “There’s no evidence for the ‘Say Nothing’ ending” and Mairead Farrell was "addicted to romantic nationalism"

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Journalist Martin Dillon disputes the ending of the ‘Say Nothing’ tv show depicting the murder of Jean McConville. In his new book ‘The Sorrow and the Loss: The Tragic Shadow Cast by the Troubles on the Lives of Women’, he writes about people like Caroline Moreland, shot as an informer just weeks before the IRA ceasefire – he believes Martin McGuinness must have known about it. Mairead Farrell killed by the SAS in Gibraltar despite being well-known to the security services also features in the book.

Martin Dillon joins Ciarán Dunbar, to talk about his latest work.

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Alliance: From liberal Unionism, to the agnostic ‘middle ground’

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Alliance was founded in 1970. Originally a strongly pro-union party before becoming agnostic on the border. 55 years later the party still exists and still seeks, as it would see it, to unite Northern Ireland. Who founded the party and why, what challenges has it faced, and how did it go from supporting the union to being agnostic on the question that dominates our politics? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Professor Jon Tonge.

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Suzanne Breen: Irish unity, Sinn Féin’s White House dilemma and MLA pay rises

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Suzanne Breen joins Ciarán Dunbar to go through the Belfast Telegraph’s latest LucidTalk polling, including the narrowing gap between support for the union and a united Ireland, Sinn Féin’s decision to decline this year’s White House visit, and potential pay rises for MLAs.

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Allison Morris on attempted murder of Sean O’Reilly as ONH feud boils over

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 17:34:16 GMT

There are fears of further bloodshed after an attempt on the life of a dissident republican in west Belfast. Taxi driver Sean O’Reilly was shot in the shoulder in Poleglass on Sunday. The shooting comes amid an escalating feud between factions of Óglaigh na hÉireann, better known as ONH. So far, the tensions have played out with graffiti and accusations on social media. But this shooting has sparked fears of retaliation.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph security correspondent - Allison Morris.

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William Hampton: The eccentric English millionaire who left his wealth to Sinn Féin

Mon, 24 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

William Hampton was a nomadic millionaire famously described by Leo Varadkar “a vagabond who lived in a caravan”. Hampton left most of his fortune to Sinn Fein. Unsurprisingly – the party were happy to take the money, and equally unsurprisingly their rivals were quick to criticise that, especially given that the money went north. Now Sinn Féin is set to take in over £80k after a derelict cottage in County Carlow was found to belong to Hampton.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Andrew Madden.

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‘King Con’: Belfast conman Cartmill who scammed Stephen Nolan and Eamonn Holmes faces jail

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Celebrity conman Jay Cartmill is facing prison after pleading guilty to 46 new fraud charges, taking his total number of criminal convictions to more than 200. Cartmill, who told Stephen Nolan in 2015 that he was changing his ways, has confessed to masterminding another scam which is believed to total close to £1m. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes.

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The IRA’s La Mon Bombing and the victims’ quest for justice

Mon, 17 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Twelve people died when the IRA fired bombed the La Mons House hotel on the 17 February 1978. Scores were injured, some horrifically. The Provisional IRA claimed responsibility for the attack, it apologised for the deaths - claiming the bombers had planned to give adequate warning – but were thwarted by a broken phone box.

Journalist Ivan Little’s first shift as a news editor was on that day and has worked on the story ever since – he joins Ciarán Dunbar to tell the story.

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The Official IRA’s ‘training’ trip to North Korea

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Olivia Peden is joined by journalist and author John Sweeney, who has visited the strange nation.

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Allison Morris: The origins of the PSNI and the challenge of recruiting Catholics

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

23 years after its emergence, the PSNI is still less than one third Catholic and the numbers attempting to join are according to the Chief Constable "below what's needed". Its latest recruitment campaign attracted a total of 3,500 applications but only 27% are perceived to be Catholic. The PSNI was born out of the Patten reforms of the old RUC but the changes which reforms brought about were painful for many who saw them as a betrayal. The controversial 50/50, Catholic / Protestant recruitment policy was seen as discrimination against Protestants.

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar to explain the background of the PSNI and the current difficulties it faces.

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Ciaran Barnes: Why UDA shot pensioner after Bulgarian brothel raid in Coleraine

Mon, 10 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

A Coleraine pensioner, who uses a mobility scooter, was shot five times in the arms and legs by the UDA. But what possible excuse would the loyalist paramilitaries have for carrying out such a heinous act? The attack came just 48 hours after the PSNI had raided a brothel in the town which it publicly connected to the UDA. That brothel was run by Bulgarian pimps and police say they were paying protection money to loyalists. The two events appear to be connected. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday Life's Ciaran Barnes.

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Top Belfast school Methody apologises after rugby hazing leaves boy ‘traumatised’

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Methodist College Belfast’s insurers have been stung for £50,000 after a Carryduff boy sued over hazing at rugby camp. The boy was allegedly forced to strip naked and have his head shaved. Gabriel McConkey also claims he also witnessed other boys perform acts on a sex toy. He was also filmed in what the family say were “degrading” videos which left him “traumatised”. The school has apologised and has reviewed how such trips are supervised. What is hazing and does rugby have a particular problem with it?

Belfast Telegraph sports reporter Adam McKendry joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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How I caught the catfish who took my identity

Thu, 06 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

It all began in December, when an ex-girlfriend of Irish independent journalist John Meagher sent him screenshots of a fake dating-app profile using a photo of him. This would lead him on an extraordinary journey to find out who his catfish was – the answer to which would shock everyone involved.

Host: Ellen Coyne. Guest: John Meagher

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“The starting point is to is to name people”: Sam McBride talks to legacy chief Sir Declan Morgan

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Sir Declan Morgan was formerly Northern Ireland’s most senior judge. The Londonderry man now heads the Legacy Commission. He describes the role not only as one of helping families get the truth about how relatives died but also about revealing the reality of political violence and the Troubles.

Sir Declan tells the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride he won't flinch from naming those behind the atrocities.

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Why was Big Brother's Seany O’Kane turned back from Moscow?

Mon, 03 Feb 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Former Big Brother contestant Seány O’Kane has been denied entry to Russia. O’Kane’s the owner of a popular Telegram platform for foreigners in Russia named ‘Moscow Pals’. Seany O’Kane has lived and worked in the country for years but was turned back from Moscow Airport before Christmas. Moscow Pals also has a channel dealing with financial questions arising from how to extract finances from Russia. The Russian authorities take a keen interest in it.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Jason Corcoran.

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The murder of Robert McCartney, the IRA cover-up, and his sisters’ fight for justice

Thu, 30 Jan 2025 17:30:00 GMT

Robert McCartney was murdered by members of the IRA 20 years ago, in January 2005. He died after being stabbed in the street outside a bar in Belfast, near the the Markets area. Like many other murders, the IRA hoped that it would eventually blow over, but it did not, it became an international news story and a political nightmare for Sinn Féin - all due to the tenacity of his sisters.

Two of them tell Suzanne Breen what they thought of the subsequent criminal trials, and if they think they were used by politicians.

This podcast was first published in March 2023.

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‘Operation Torpedo’: Allison Morris reveals new details on Bryson’s mole and the plotters inside the DUP

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

In January 2024, opponents of the then DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson, and the deal he struck with the government over post-Brexit arrangements put together a political plot - ‘Operation Torpedo’ - Its aim, to wreck the proposed deal. The wire-tapping and subsequent live-tweeting of a supposedly secret meeting caused a sensation. The key figure in the scheme was loyalist Jamie Bryson. Now The BelTel can reveal more details about the ‘operation’ and the number of people involved.

Guest: Allison Morris.

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Rev Harold Good: Decommissioning IRA weapons, secret talks and Martin McGuinness

Mon, 27 Jan 2025 01:02:00 GMT

The Rev Harold Good witnessed the IRA decommissioning their arsenal of weapons. He facilitated secret talks at vital points during the Peace Process. In his new book he reveals his role as a back channel between the DUP and Sinn Féin. He joins Ciarán Dunbar to discuss his role as a peacemaker, his experiences with Ian Paisley and his extraordinary friendship with Martin McGuinness.

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The 'GAA Catfish': "She would have needed at least 25 different phone numbers to pull this off"

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

A woman dubbed ‘The GAA catfish’ is now the subject of an official police probe after the PSNI received a complaint alleging harassment. The infamous catfish, who is believed to be from Armagh, is believed to have deceived up to 40 people including a number of Ulster GAA players. Who is the GAA catfish, how did she trick so many county players, and why did they fall for it? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Niamh Campbell and Kurtis Reid.

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SAS: Rogue Heroes - Should ‘Paddy’ Mayne get the Victoria Cross and yet another terrible NI accent

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Newtownards man Paddy Mayne was an unconventional soldier – a founder member of the SAS. He is one of the central characters in the BBC’s hit war drama, SAS: Rogue Heroes

But there is much controversy over how he has portrayed, foul mouthed, thuggish and with a very dodgy accent. Military historians in particular, say that’s not how he was.

And this publicity has once again brought old questions to the fore – why was Mayne never given the Victoria Cross? And even, should he be given the honour posthumously?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Andrew Madden.

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Sorcha Eastwood takes on Andrew and Tristan Tate

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Lagan Valley MP Sorcha Eastwood to start legal action against the Tate brothers over social media posts aimed at her. Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan are self-professed ‘Alpha Males’ and now aspiring politicians with their own ‘Bruv Party’. This spat comes as Elon Musk called Labour MP Jess Phillips a ‘Rape Genocide Apologist’. Meanwhile, as Donald Trump returns to the White House Mark Zuckerberg says Meta is going more ‘Masculine’. How did the Tates get so much influence and are the ‘tech bros’ really that much of a threat to democracy?

Kurtis Reid and Margaret Canning join Ciarán Dunbar.

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The IRA’s infamous escape from Belfast’s prison ship, the HMS Maidstone

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

HMS Maidstone, an ex-Royal Navy Ship, was used in the early 1970s to hold internees. In January 1972, a group of IRA prisoners swam 270 meters through an ice-cold Belfast Lough in a bid to escape, greasing themselves in butter to squeeze out of the ship’s portholes. They then hijacked a double-decker bus before slipping across the border, humiliating the authorities.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by James Durney, author of ‘Jailbreak: Great Irish Republican escapes’.

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Allison Morris: John George’s return flight from Alicante was “booked after he was dead”

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Twenty-four days after John George was reported missing in Spain, a body was found. The father-of-two from west Belfast had travelled to Alicante in mid-December for a holiday, but worried family when he failed to return home for Christmas. The Belfast Telegraph can now reveal that Mr George’s return flight was booked in the days following his death. Allison Morris, who was investigating the disappearance, joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Jarlath Burns and Rory Gallagher row: Does the GAA have a problem with double standards?

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:12:00 GMT

A fierce clash between GAA president Jarlath Burns and former Derry manager Rory Gallagher has led to the threat of legal action and a split in public opinion. Was Burns right to raise his concerns about Gallagher’s potential appointment to a new gig?

Kevin Doyle is joined by Colm Keys, Fionnán Sheahan, and Tessa Fleming.

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Revealed: Sam McBride on secret unionist unity talks between DUP and UUP

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

Unionist unity is an idea often proposed but has never seemed to progress. But now, The Belfast Telegraph can reveal secret DUP-UUP unity talks were held 18 months ago. Why did these talks take place, who was there, and could the idea of unionist unity come to fruition? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by The Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride.

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Sam McBride: Files revealed on Ian Paisley, DUP’s sex education panic and the plans to dam Strangford Lough

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 00:05:00 GMT

This Christmas the Public Record Office of Northern Ireland made available papers which were previously classified. Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar to reveal his discoveries, including new details of Ian Paisley’s relationship with developer Seymour Sweeney, an ambitious plan to dam Strangford Lough, and the DUP’s discomfort with sex education booklet for children that included “activities too foul to describe”.

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What Dublin’s secret files reveal about NI, Trimble, Bruton, JFK and Casement

Wed, 08 Jan 2025 00:05:34 GMT

Unionists fiercely resist calls for a border poll for on a United Ireland, but that was not always the case. David Trimble campaigned for a poll in 2002 – secret files reveal he was dismissed. Newly released Dublin files reveal former taoiseach John Bruton was suspicious not only of Sinn Féin and the SDLP, but even his own Department of Foreign Affairs. Other files reveal a young John F Kennedy was happy enough with partition of Ireland and how Roger Casement was a source of controversy long after his execution.

Ralph Reigel from the Irish Independent joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Lion tamer, street-fighter and 'sectarian murderer': The life and crimes of Buck Alec Robinson

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 00:05:39 GMT

For most people, the legendary Belfast character of Buck Alec will ring a bell. Infamous for his pet lion and street-fighting career, he was even rumoured to have worked with Al Capone. But Buck Alec Robinson wasn’t just some sort of loveable street-fighting rogue - according to many he was also a ruthless sectarian killer as a member of the Ulster Special Constabulary. Who really was Buck Alec – the archetypical Belfast hardman? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Joe Baker.

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2024: The year of political scandals, returns and bizarre plot twists

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:05:02 GMT

2024 brought political returns, countless scandals, and that one girls night at the Devenish which shocked Northern Ireland. To reminisce on this year’s eventful news agenda, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Editor-In-Chief Eoin Brannigan, and journalists Sam McBride, Allison Morris, Aine Toner, Gillian Halliday and Flávia Gouveia.

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Belfast: Rosaleen O’Kane and the murder the RUC didn't investigate

Fri, 27 Dec 2024 00:05:37 GMT

Rosaleen O’Kane was found in a burning flat in north Belfast in 1976, her body stripped and set on fire. Rosaleen was 33 years old. Why did the RUC not investigate her murder? Why were her family told her death might have something to do with 'black magic'?

This episode was originally published in August 2023.

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Belfast: The Falls Road Curfew - the raid on the Official IRA which turned west Belfast against British Army

Wed, 25 Dec 2024 00:05:10 GMT

On the 3rd of July 1970 the British Army sealed off the lower Falls. A ‘curfew’ is announced. Troops go in, searching for IRA weapons. But the use of CS gas, houses being wrecked, looted even, turns the population against them. Four people died. The Official IRA decided to fight what they called ‘The Battle of the Falls’. The army seized weapons but their standing in west Belfast had been completely changed.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Brian Hanley, and by Belfast Telegraph columnist and author Malachi O’Doherty.

This episode was originally published in July 2024.

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Belfast: Bloody Friday – What impact did the IRA’s Blitz have?

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 00:05:36 GMT

The 21st of July 1972 was the most prolific day of IRA bombings during the Troubles. Nine people were killed and 130 injured as a blitz of 22 bombs detonated throughout Belfast in under two hours. That day has since become known as Bloody Friday. Why did it happen, how did it happen? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Malachi O’Doherty, Niamh Campbell and Aaron Edwards.

This episode was originally published in July 2022.

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Sam McBride: The IRA’s Northern Bank Robbery and how it almost shattered the peace process

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:00:49 GMT

The infamous Northern Bank heist shook the peace process to its core with suspicion immediately falling on the Provisional IRA. The Northern Bank was forced to replace millions of pounds of notes soon after the huge crime but most of the money was never found. It was far from the ‘victimless’ crime some portrayed it as it left innocent people deeply traumatised. Why did the IRA emerge from the shadows to carry out this robbery and why did they do it?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph editor Sam McBride.

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BelTel Football: NI star Gareth McAuley reveals all about his incredible career

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:57:57 GMT

The BelTel Football panel discuss Linfield star Joel Cooper’s shock Coleraine switch, Larne’s managerial crisis as Nathan Rooney steps down and Northern Ireland legend Gareth McAuley reflects on his incredible career.

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‘Say Nothing’: The ‘Disappeared’ of Andersonstown, John McClory and Brian McKinney

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 17:18:56 GMT

Sunday World Assistant Editor Gerry Millar spent the early years of his career investigating the mystery of those who were ‘disappeared’ by the IRA, having known one of them John McClory, who was murdered alongside Brian McKinney. He joins Ciarán Dunbar to share how he was amongst the first journalists to compile a list of the ‘Disappeared’ and how their disappearances affected his local community in Andersonstown.

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40 years of Band Aid: Christmas, charity and controversy

Mon, 16 Dec 2024 00:05:32 GMT

When the BBC aired journalist Michael Buerk's harrowing reports of Ethiopian famine in 1984, few could have imagined the surprising and enduring legacy they would inspire. Among those watching was Irish musician Bob Geldof who became determined to help the only way he knew how. How did Band Aid's iconic Christmas single come about and are it’s charitable lyrics now outdated?

Ellen Coyne is joined by John Meagher.

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Left, right, populism and woke – why are the working classes not voting socialist?

Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:05:31 GMT

We use them every day, but do the terms left and right really describe our politics today. What is ‘woke’ and why do people hate it? And socialists struggle with the working class as much as for it, why is that?

David McCann from Ulster University and Michael Pierse from Queen’s University Belfast join Ciarán Dunbar to take a deep dive into today’s political trends.

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Don Anderson: The NI journalist who escaped fall of Saigon as airport burned tells the story of reporting Vietnam

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 00:05:44 GMT

Don Anderson was one of the BBC’s TV reporters in Saigon during the final days of the Vietnam War. He joins Ciarán Dunbar to tell his incredible story of his time in Vietnam, including accidentally finding himself in a minefield, his near-death experiences on the front line, and the fall of Saigon in April 1975.

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‘Peace’ game is up for UVF chief Winston “Winkie” Irvine as he finally admits gun charges

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 00:05:24 GMT

UVF chief Winston “Winkie” Irvine is facing jail time after pleading guilty to firearms charges. It means the well-known loyalist Irvine’s dual-career has a tax-funded community worker and paramilitary is well and truly over.

Who’s Winkie Irvine? How did he get caught? What does this mean for his role in loyalist transitioning?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.

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'Revolutionary Years' : 1913 to 1923, 10 years which changed Ireland

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 01:06:27 GMT

In 1913, Ireland, the whole of Ireland, was an integrated and peaceful part of the UK – albeit one with a strong home rule movement and a strong counter-home rule movement. It had two private and opposing armies and a secret underground brotherhood dedicated to winning an Irish Republic by force. A world war, a rising, a guerilla war and a civil war later, most of Ireland had left the UK by 1923, becoming the Irish Free State, and of course, Northern Ireland was born. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Professor Mike Cronin of Boston College Ireland.

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MasterChef's Gregg Wallace: What is being alleged?

Sun, 08 Dec 2024 15:30:26 GMT

What are the allegations being made against Gregg Wallace that have led to him stepping down as host of the BBC’s flagship show MasterChef and doe sit mean for the BBC and the MeToo movement? Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guests: Enda Brady & Niamh Horan

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‘Mr-Fix-it': Newry's Rory Trainor facing jail for EncroChat money laundering, Ciaran Barnes reports

Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:05:09 GMT

Newry millionaire money launderer ‘Mr-Fix-it' is now facing lengthy jail time. Rory Trainor was snared following a Europe-wide investigation into the EncroChat phone network. After spending almost 5 years fighting 39 charges he admitted guilt to drug and illegal cash charges, confessing to laundering almost £1.4 million. Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The chicken farmer, the ‘Triads’ , and the cannabis in the shed, Sam McBride reports

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:05:18 GMT

When Sam McBride went investigating a massive cannabis operation in Hillsborough he was confronted by an angry poultry farmer, Clive Weir. Not only did Weir deny knowledge of the weed growing in his shed, he lambasted the PSNI for not catching the perpetrators. His denials seemed ridiculous and eventually he plead guilty. The PSNI said somebody approached Weir - a Chinese ‘Triad-like’ crime gang - and made him an offer he couldn’t refuse.

Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar to tell this unlikely story.

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Ian Ogle: Ciaran Barnes on the murder that rocked the East Belfast UVF

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 00:05:48 GMT

Loyalist Ian Ogle was murdered just yards from his east Belfast home in an attack compared to an attack from a “pack of hyenas”. Five people have now been found guilty of his murder The killing effectively brought down the leadership of the East Belfast UVF, leading to huge PSNI task force pressure which resulted in over 30 drug dealing convictions.

Ciaran Barnes tells Ciarán Dunbar the story of the brutal murder of Ian Ogle.

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'Notorious' - Conor McGregor’s career and legacy is in freefall – what next?

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 14:00:10 GMT

One week on from the verdict in Nikita Hand’s civil rape case against Conor McGregor, the Irish MMA fighter’s career is in freefall. Since last Friday, products associated with McGregor, including Proper No. Twelve whiskey, have been removed from shelves, murals have been whitewashed over and marches have taken place in solidarity with victim Ms Hand. What next for the Dublin MMA star who once had it all?

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Joe Lynskey: The monk who joined the IRA and was 'disappeared' by it over trying to kill his love rival

Fri, 29 Nov 2024 00:05:09 GMT

Remains exhumed from a grave in County Monaghan are being DNA tested to determine whether they include those of Joe Lynskey. One of the ‘disappeared’, the former monk turned IRA man was abducted, murdered and secretly buried in 1972. Lynskey is understood to have tricked a fellow IRA man into shooting a love rival – also a member of the IRA. The IRA ‘court martial’ sentenced him to death

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar to tell Joe Lynskey’s story.

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Double Cross: The Ardoyne murder of Robbie Lawlor, and the brutal feud that led to his death

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 17:00:13 GMT

“Ruthless. Psychopath. Dangerous.” These are just some of the words used to describe Robbie Lawlor, a formerly leading figure in the notorious Drogheda feud. Crimeworld's Nicolla Tallant discusses her new book Web of Betrayal and podcast series Double Cross – The Murder of Robbie Lawlor, to shed new light on the chaos and violence that consumed Drogheda leading to Lawlor’s death in Ardoyne in April 2020.

Host; Tessa Flemming, Guest; Nicola Tallant

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Boxing stars Barry McGuigan, Carl Frampton and the £6 million lawsuit

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 00:05:56 GMT

Under boxing legend Barry McGuigan’s guidance Carl Frampton won world titles in 2014 and 2016. However, their relationship fell apart in a legal battle over fight profits, leading to a £6 million lawsuit. As McGuigan enters the “I’m a Celebrity” jungle, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by boxing Journalist David Mohan and reporter Niamh Campbell to unpack the rise, fall, and aftermath of the fallout.

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‘Ulster-Scot Hillbilly’ JD Vance is ‘one heartbeat away from the presidency’ - who is he?

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 00:05:16 GMT

Incoming US Vice President JD Vance is a self-professed ‘Scots-Irish Hillbilly’. He first made waves in US politics with his best selling memoir ‘Hillbilly Elegy’ on his poor upbringing, which was later adapted into a film. How did JD Vance get from the Applachians to the White house, what does he have to do with Ulster Scots, and how important is the Ulster Scots community in the US? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by director of the Clinton Institute for American Studies at University College Dublin, Professor Liam Kennedy.

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The LVF murder of journalist Martin O’Hagan and the struggle for justice

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:05:51 GMT

Ciarán Dunbar is by joined by Anton McCabe, Seamus Dooley, and by Jim McDowell, Martin O’Hagan’s editor at the Sunday World.

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Suzanne Breen: NI split over DUP meetings with LCC, O’Neill suffers from McMonagle fall-out but Sinn Féin’s support solid

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:05:02 GMT

The Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen joins Ciarán Dunbar with her analysis of Belfast Telegraph’s LucidTalk polling, including a recent dip in support for Michelle O’Neill among recent Sinn Féin controversies and Unionist support for DUP ministers’ meetings with Loyalist paramilitary representatives.

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Allison Morris: "PSNI failed to do even the most basic police work" in Katie Simpson murder investigation

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 17:04:51 GMT

The Police Ombudsman says the PSNI investigation into the death of Katie Simpson was “flawed and failed her family”. The 21-year-old died in hospital a week after an incident where her sister’s partner, Jonathan Creswell, claimed to have found her mid-suicide attempt. In reality, he had repeatedly attacked her. Police failed to question Katie’s death, despite Creswell’s violent history and physical signs of abuse on her body. He was later charged with her murder but took his life one day into the trial earlier this year. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.

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The Newry actress, the Iraqi businessman and the multi-million-pound gangster film scam

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 00:05:23 GMT

In the making of a film ironically titled ‘A Landscape of Lies’, Newry born actress Aoife Madden was joined by a wealthy Iraqi businessman to try their hand at making it on the big screen. But what appeared as a lifelong dream was really all about conning investors and the tax man out of millions. Madden (the niece of Sinn Fein Finance minister Conor Murphy) was part of a team which scammed HMRC £2.8 million to produce a movie which she falsely promised to have a star-studded cast. Kurtis Reid joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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EXTRA: Ex-Sinn Féin man McMonagle jailed for child sex offences

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 13:21:18 GMT

Ex-Sinn Féin press officer Michael McMonagle have been sentenced to nine months in custody for child sex offences. In one incident, he believed he was chatting online to a 12-year-old girl, who was actually a police decoy. The 42-year-old previously pleaded guilty to 14 charges. The case was one of a series of controversies which rocked Sinn Féin in recent months.

Andrew Madden reports.

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Enniskillen Bombing: "30 people involved, yet Nobody has been brought to justice”, Denzil McDaniel

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 00:05:27 GMT

The Enniskillen Bomb in November 1987 sent shockwaves across the world. An IRA bomb at a Remembrance Day service in the town killed 11 civilians, including three married couples. 63 people were injured, and a twelfth victim died after being in a coma for 13 years because of his injuries. No one has ever been convicted of the attack. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by former editor of the Impartial Reporter and author of ‘Enniskillen: The Remembrance Sunday Bombing’ Denzil McDaniel.

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Trump triumphant by a landslide – how and why did he win the American people?

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 13:48:23 GMT

Donald Trump has resoundingly won the US Presidency. He is now the oldest person to win the presidency, the only convicted felon to do so, and the only won to have incited an insurrection. But not of that matters now – the American people have spoken. How did the night play out, how surprised are we, and what does it mean for Northern Ireland and the Republic?

Keith Bailie, Brett Campbell, Margaret Canning and Olivia Peden join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Loughinisland Massacre: Trevor Birney on the PSNI’s "Stasi" tactics, and his arrest

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 00:05:47 GMT

Loughinisland is a small parish in Co. Down. Its name has become synonymous with the infamous Loughinisland Massacre, when six were killed by the UVF in a pub while watching Ireland play Italy in the 1994 World Cup. Trevor Birney helped make a documentary about the murders – but in 2018, he was arrested by PSNI over material used in the film, alongside his colleague Barry Mccaffrey. Six years later, they’re at the center of a major tribunal against the authorities over keeping surveillance of local Journalists. He joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Alf McCreary: Journalism, a lucky break, Ian Paisley and faith

Sun, 03 Nov 2024 00:05:47 GMT

Alf McCreary walked into the Belfast Telegraph on September 1, 1964 – and asked for a job. 60 years on, he's still writing for the paper. Alf’s career has given him many insights into our society and its divisions. He charted the evolution of the Rev Ian Paisley, and he wrote a biography of Gordon Wilson, whose daughter Marie was killed in the Enniskillen bombing.

He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar about his life in journalism.

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The UVF and the savage '70s: Shankill Butchers, Gusty Spence, and the Dublin Monaghan Bombings

Fri, 01 Nov 2024 00:05:45 GMT

The UVF began the 1970s with a campaign to cleans Catholics and Catholic owned businesses from Protestant dominated areas. With the IRA’s campaign at its height, the UVF moved from targeting nationalist and moderate political figures to simple sectarian murder – many of its victims just teenagers. By the mid-70s a notorious group emerged from the UVF which brought the savagery of the troubles to a new level – the Shankill Butchers. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by author and historian Aaron Edwards.

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BONUS: The 'Angel of Death' who terrified Irish town and captivated the world

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:05:08 GMT

Back in 1995, Fr Michael Kennedy took to the pulpit in Dungarvan, County Waterford to give his Sunday sermon. He warned locals that an “Angel of Death” was in their midst killing vulnerable men. What ensued sparked a global sensation.

Host: Dave Hanratty, Guest: Ellen Coyne

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Alexander McCartney: “Nothing but a disgusting child predator”

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 18:09:32 GMT

Alexander McCartney, from Newry, is one of the most prolific paedophile ‘catfishes’ the world has seen to date. A Judge said his crimes of “sadism and depravity” were “on a par with murder”. His actions led to the death of an innocent little girl, Cimarron Thomas, and subsequently, her father. Kurtis Reid was in court.

Just a note to say – some listeners might find the contents of the episode of the BelTel disturbing.

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Incels exposed: “Men aren’t entitled to sex, but women aren’t owed safety”

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:05:46 GMT

The word ‘Incel’ is short for ‘involuntarily celibate’. They’re primarily men, who believe they’re doomed to be alone, blaming society, women, and sometimes themselves for their isolation. The explosion of the ‘Incel’ community online has led to multiple forums, chats and groups based on their beliefs, which have led to disastrous consequences. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Kurtis Reid and Olivia Peden, who went undercover on one of these forums.

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Ireland’s gang wars: How the Kinahans’ Belfast bound assassin ‘The Butcher’ was caught

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:05:34 GMT

The Kinahan cartel is Ireland’s most powerful crime gang, and one half of its most notorious gang war. After a failed hit on boss Daniel Kinahan, the cartel recruited a team of killers to retaliate against the Hutch gang. One of the men they hired was Estonian Imre ‘The Butcher’ Arakas – but the eccentric hitman was soon caught.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by crime editor with the Irish Sun and co-author of ‘Kinahan Assassins’, Stephen Breen, to tell the story of the Kinahan-Hutch feud, its victims and its hitmen.

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Sinn Féin’s woes – self-inflicted, a media pile on, or a lack of professionalism?

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 16:45:58 GMT

Sinn Féin controversies snowball as party member resigns after a portrait is damaged in Belfast City. Is the party suffering from a media pile-on before an election or a self-inflicted meltdown caused by a lack of professionalism? All this just before an election – one which might feature well-known crime figure Gerry ‘the Monk’ Hutch.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Dublin based news reporter Gráinne Ní Aodha and commentator and politics lecturer David McCann to talk politics.

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Serial killer Uel ‘Cookie’ Cooke and the brutal murder of Anne-Marie Smyth

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 23:05:52 GMT

Samuel ‘Uel’ Cooke was a prolific UVF hitman. Connected to at least six murders, including the killing of IRA Chief Brendan ‘Ruby’ Davison, his most heinous deed was the murder of innocent 26-year-old Catholic Anne-Marie Smyth. She had been attending a concert in east Belfast before being lured to a nearby house, where she was brutally beaten and killed by a UVF-led gang. Cooke died this month, aged 59. Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The RIC murders of the McMahon family, which changed Belfast forever

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 23:05:14 GMT

On 24th March 1922, five men dressed in RIC police uniforms broke into the north Belfast home of well-known Catholic publican Owen McMahon. The men shoot and kill McMahon, along with four of his sons, and an employee of the family. What happened next changed the course of history on the Island of Ireland. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian and author Dr Edward Burke to explain why the murders changed so much.

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EXTRA - Sinn Féin: Mary Lou McDonald attempts to quell crises – did she succeed?

Wed, 16 Oct 2024 14:20:35 GMT

Mary Lou McDonald has been accused of orchestrating an “elaborate cover-up” after admitting didn’t divulge why former Sinn Féin senator Niall Ó Donnghaile resigned from the Seanad. The former Belfast Lord Mayor has now admitted he had resigned over inappropriate texts to a teen. What will all of this mean for the Republic’s looming election?

Ciarán Dunbar joined by the Irish Independent’s political editor – Philip Ryan.

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“What has gone wrong?”: Allison Morris on Northern Ireland’s femicide problem

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 23:05:43 GMT

In the past six weeks, four women have been killed in NI, bringing this year’s total of alleged femicides up to six. At the time of recording, a further two deaths from this weekend are under investigation. Why is femicide so high in Northern Ireland, how does the PSNI deal with domestic violence here, and can anything be done? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.

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‘Peace at last’: The story of the Loyalist ceasefires 30 years on

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 23:05:25 GMT

On the 13 October 1994, six weeks after the IRA announced a ‘complete cessation’, the Loyalist paramilitary groups declared their ceasefires. The UVF’s Gusty Spence announced loyalist violence was over, in a step that is seen as one of the vital steps towards a lasting peace in Northern Ireland. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by former PUP leader Billy Hutchinson, Historian Aaron Edwards, and journalists Allison Morris, Mark Simpson, and Vincent Kearney.

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“The Manchester Bombing was an elaborate hoax”: why do some people believe terror victims are ‘crisis actors’?

Thu, 10 Oct 2024 23:05:10 GMT

22 people died in the 2017 Manchester Bombing, and over a thousand were injured. Former TV producer Richard Hall has been in court for allegedly harassing victims of the bombing to show that the event was an ‘elaborate hoax’. He believes that the bombing was staged, and the people involved were ‘crisis actors’. What are they, and why do so many people believe in them?

Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph journalist Kurtis Reid to find out why conspiracy theorists deny events like these.

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Suzanne Breen on Sinn Féin's McMonagle problem and Claire Hanna as she takes charge of SDLP

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 16:11:31 GMT

Michelle O’Neill faced the assembly and with the repeated use of the words “sorry” and “apologise” tried to extricate Sinn Féin from the mire of the Michael McMonagle controversy – is it enough?

Claire Hanna has now officially taken charge of the SDLP, can she turn around the party’s fortunes? And does Mike Nesbitt have a similar task ahead of him as he returns to the UUP driving seat?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Suzanne Breen.

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UDA soap opera continues, Spence flees, Beachball’s back on Sandy Row and ’Ards boss fined for running a checkpoint

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 23:05:17 GMT

Former-UDA man Jim Spence, who has always denied links with the murder of solicitor Pat Finucane, has sold his £275,000 house in West Belfast and fled to England. Billy ‘Beachball’ McCune, not believed to be a UDA member at all, has returned to his home stomping ground after making a deal with the UDA’s Jackie McDonald. Newtownards UDA boss Adrian Price has been in court following his failure to stop for a police checkpoint amidst a feud that ripped through North Down. The Sunday World’s Northern Editor, Richard Sullivan, reports on the recent dealings of this anarchic terror and crime group.

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Michelle O’Neill and Sinn Féin struggle with questions over how they dealt with child sex offender

Thu, 03 Oct 2024 16:27:50 GMT

Michelle O’Neill says she’s “aghast and horrified” that two Sinn Féin press officers, including their top spin doctor, gave references to a former colleague then under investigation for child sex offices – both have now resigned. Michael McMonagle has now plead guilty to 14 charges despite earlier denials and failing to turn up in court on two occasions. Sinn Féin suspended him as soon as they learned of the investigation, but he later gained employment with the British Heart Foundation, having provided the references.

Guest: Sam McBride

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Arlene Foster: How we almost booked her as a renewable energy expert for 10k

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 23:05:25 GMT

Former First Minister Arlene Foster has been advertising herself as a renewable energy expert at a cost of more than £10,000 a day. The Belfast Telegraph went undercover to get a quote for her services, the agency said that hiring the Baroness for a full day would cost “in the region of £10,000”. The decision to advertise her as a ‘renewable energy expert’ comes as a surprise to many due to her involvement in the RHI scandal.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride.

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“Michael Collins disappeared far more people than Martin McGuinness’ comrades in the Provisional IRA”

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 23:05:35 GMT

During the Troubles, Republicans ‘disappeared’ 17 people - murdering them, and secretly burying them. But the Provisional IRA and the INLA were not the first republicans, or indeed combatants in Ireland, to use this method, it started long before the Troubles. Pádraig Óg Ó Ruairc has spent over a decade researching the fate of ‘the disappeared’ and how this phenomenon came about . He joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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“We sold our house for this”: Cruise passengers ‘stranded’ in Belfast before 3-year long trip

Fri, 27 Sep 2024 23:05:26 GMT

A cruise ship which has been docked in Belfast for four months has been facing repeated faults, leaving 600 passengers stranded in Northern Ireland. Villa Vie Residences’ ship ‘Odyssey' gives passengers the chance to live full time on a cruise ship. Randy and Kit Cassingham sold their home to embark on the trip - they join Olivia Peden to give their opinions on Belfast, their first July marching season, and what they expect from life at sea.

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Loyalists call on DUP education minister to block integrated Irish school in east Belfast

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:29:50 GMT

The LCC includes representatives of the UVF, UDA and the Red Hand Commando. A political row has developed following a decision by the DUP Education Minister Paul Givan to meet them. During that meeting the LCC demanded he halt plans to build an integrated Irish medium school in east Belfast. Supporters of ‘Scoil na Seolta’ say the language is for all, and so is the school. But for many loyalists, the school is unwanted, unneeded and unwelcome.

Niamh Campbell told the story to Ciarán Dunbar.

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"Sinn Féin need to be careful on meaningless dates for a border poll": Suzanne Breen

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 23:05:33 GMT

As NI parties hold their annual conferences, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Suzanne Breen to answer some of the big questions. How did Gavin Robinson perform at his first DUP conference as leader? What’s behind Nigel Farage’s snub of Jim Allister? Would Keir Starmer back a Sinn Féin-endorsed border poll?

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There’s something about Eamonn (Holmes)...

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 23:05:13 GMT

NI is fascinated by Eamonn Holmes – and that’s a fact. The Belfast-born broadcaster regularly features as one of the top Google searches in the region, with stories featuring Holmes bringing in a large audience. Following his split from wife Ruth, the 64-year-old has been spotted hanging out with 42-year-old relationship counselor Katie Alexander.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined Áine Toner to explain what the man clearly has.

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East Belfast GAA: Huge growth, hoax bombs condemned, but ‘concerns’ voiced

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 23:05:22 GMT

All unionist politicians condemn the intimidation of East Belfast GAA but some voice concerns over the GAA in general and the allocation of a local pitch to the new club. Security alerts at the Henry Jones Playing Fields disrupt sport and life in the area on a regular basis. How and why was the club formed, why do some people have a problem with it, and who’s behind the intimidation?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Liam Tunney, and by TUV councillor, Ron McDowell.

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Allison Morris reports on feud fears as ‘Óglaigh na hÉireann’ splits into two factions

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 23:05:58 GMT

‘Óglaigh na hÉireann’ means ‘young warriors of Ireland’. There are now fears that the struggle to claim the title and its history could spill over into violence in Belfast. The dissident republican group known as ‘ONH’ has split in to rival factions – with each side making bitter accusations against the other.

Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris, reports.

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Huw Edwards avoids prison over child abuse images: Joshua Rozenberg explains why

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 15:13:11 GMT

Top former BBC Journalist Huw Edwards has avoided prison despite pleading guilty to making indecent images of children. The man who was once the BBC’s most senior news presenter was given a suspended six-month prison sentence. He will also be placed on the sex offenders' register for seven years.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by legal commentator Joshua Rozenberg to explain the sentence, which has divided the public.

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Loyalist Clifford McKeown released after sentence for Billy Wright ‘birthday gift’ taxi driver murder

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 23:05:55 GMT

The last Troubles era prisoner has been released, but his victim’s family question if he is fit to return to society. Clifford McKeown was serving a minimum sentence of 24 years in Magilligan Prison for murdering taxi driver Michael McGoldrick in 1996. Mckeown shot the father-of-one as a twisted birthday gift to then Mid-Ulster UVF leader Billy Wright - ‘King Rat’. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sunday World’s Steven Moore.

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UDA ‘will hit back’ after North Antrim boss attacked at band parade

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 23:05:38 GMT

The UDA is promising to hit back after its North Antrim boss was attacked by rival loyalists. Marcus Boreland, who denies any links to criminality, was left with a snapped ankle after band supporters broke loose from a parade and attacked him with their flutes, following the brigade’s feud with a faction from a nearby village. The LCC has rejected police demands for a meeting after loyalist Dee Stitt was arrested over online comments on recent race-related violence – raising new questions over its relevance amongst loyalist circles. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by The Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes.

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The disappearance of Castlederg teen Arlene Arkinson and the search for her body

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 14:26:26 GMT

Arlene Arkinson was 15 years old the last time she was seen alive. She disappeared in August 1994 after leaving Castlederg in County Tyrone to attend a disco across the border. She was last seen with convicted sex offender Robert Howard, who was released without charge for her murder. Today it was announced that the Gardaí have started a new search for her body in Donegal. Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph’s Andrew Madden

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Gisèle Pelicot: Grandmother drugged by husband and raped by scores of men

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 23:05:04 GMT

51 men have gone on trial in France, all accused of sexually assaulting the same woman over a 10-year period. 72-year-old Gisèle Pelicot has been subjected to a decade of abuse by men who are aged between 26 and 74 years old. Her husband has plead guilty to repeatedly drugging her and inviting men into their home to sexually abuse her. Gisèle’s decision to waive her anonymity in the case has sent shockwaves across the globe. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Paris based journalist Catherine Field.

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EXTRA: Donaldsons plead not guilty

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 12:04:52 GMT

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and wife Eleanor have pleaded not guilty to all charges of historical sex offences against them. The court in Newy also heard Mrs Donaldson has lodged an application to have two of her five charges withdrawn.

Liam Tunney reports.

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Enoch Burke: Has ‘woke’ Ireland really jailed a Christian teacher who challenged ‘trans’ ideology?

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 23:05:16 GMT

Enoch Burke is back in Mountjoy prison after returning to the Christian Wilson’s Hospital School in Westmeath, despite being barred from the premises. His family and multiple international outlets say he is doing time because he’s a Christian standing up to the so-called woke ‘trans agenda’. Why exactly is Enoch Burke behind bars, and how much of his life could he end up spending there? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Journalist Shane Phelan, who has been following the story.

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Lucy Letby: Why are there growing doubts over her conviction?

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 23:05:10 GMT

Former nurse Lucy Letby is serving a whole life sentence for the murder of 7 babies and the attempted murder of 7 others. But now there are calls, including one from former Tory Brexit minister David Davis, for her case to be re-examined. Are there valid reasons to question the evidence against her and could the case be reopened?

Kevin Doyle is joined by legal journalist and commentator Joshua Rozenberg.

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EXTRA: Ulster Rugby sponsor Kingspan heavily criticised in Grenfell fire report

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 16:49:07 GMT

Kingspan has been heavily criticised in the final report into the Grenfell disaster. 72 people died in the 2017 blaze. The report found Kingspan and two other firms engaged in a deliberate strategy to mislead the market about their products. The Irish company produced only 5% of the tower’s combustible foam but has been accused of “knowingly” misleading authorities about the results of tests done on the product. Kingspan sponsors Ulster Rugby and Cavan GAA.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney.

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Captain Robert Nairac: The IRA murder and the stories surrounding it

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 23:05:50 GMT

‘Captain Nairac’ was an exceptional but eccentric British Army officer abducted and murdered by the IRA in May 1977. He was snatched from a pub car park in South Armagh – a place he had gone alone – posing as a Belfast Republican. A search is continuing for his body.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Alistair Kerr, author of ‘Betrayal: The Murder of Robert Nairac GC’

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Oasis fans’ are ripping over ‘price gouging’ - but who's to blame?

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 08:58:56 GMT

Oasis fans across the island were left angry, disappointed and waiting in digital queues of nearly three-quarters of a million people, as they tried to buy tickets for the Gallagher brothers’ reunion tour dates, in Croke Park next August.

Many would-be concert-goers were offered standard ‘in demand’ tickets for sums reaching close to £500, leaving many accusing Ticketmaster of ‘price gouging’ and of touting their own concert tickets.

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NI's £20m Crypto scams: "He was someone I could trust"

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 23:05:56 GMT

A Tyrone man has lost over £12,000 in a cryptocurrency scam after an account claiming to be his friend roped him into what was a supposedly ‘low risk’ investment. Last year over 5,000 investment scams like this were reported to the PSNI – amounting to over £20 million. Olivia Peden is joined by Kurtis Reid, who spoke to a victim of crypto fraud.

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'It’s Over’: 30 years on from the IRA ‘ceasefire’

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 23:05:53 GMT

After 25 years of what it termed ‘Armed Struggle’ and the ‘Long War’ , the Provisional IRA called a “complete cessation of military operations” on 31st August 1994 – 30 years ago. By that stage, the organisation was responsible for the deaths of 1,700 people. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Journalists Brian Rowan and Allison Morris, Former Belfast Telegraph Editor Ed Curran and historian Fearghal Mac Bhloscaidh.

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Colum Eastwood steps down as SDLP leader and backs Claire Hanna

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 14:18:58 GMT

Foyle MP Colum Eastwood is to step down as SDLP leader. He has backed South Belfast MP Claire Hanna to take over the leadership of the party. Colum Eastwood, who has been leader for 9 years, said the "moment has come to step aside".

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Foyle reporter, Garrett Hargan.

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Sinn Féin soaring, UUP struggling, unionists and nationalists completely divided on immigration

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 23:05:52 GMT

The Belfast Telegraph’s latest LucidTalk polling took Northern Ireland’s pulse on the levels of support for the parties, immigration and funding for the Casement Park rebuild. And after the resignation of Doug Beattie – is the UUP simply unleadable?

Commentators David McCann and Sarah Creighton join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Allison Morris: Harry Holland murderer McKee had 'chance to change' but is back behind bars

Sun, 25 Aug 2024 23:05:48 GMT

West Belfast greengrocer Harry Holland was murdered in September 2007. In an attempt to steal Harry Holland’s van, then 16-year-old Stephen McKee stabbed him in the head with a screwdriver, leaving the pensioner to die later in hospital. McKee was given 12 years behind bars for the murder but was eligible for pre-release back in 2016. To the relief of Harry Holland’s family, the now 33-year-old has been sent back to prison following his suspected involvement of ‘very serious’ reoffending.

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The Judge's Daughter: New declassified files reveal why government ignored the convicted man's innocence

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 23:05:59 GMT

Secret papers revealed by the Belfast Telegraph suggest the civil service and government knew Iain Hay Gordon was innocent of the murder of Patricia Curran but continued to cover up the truth. Officials feared that reopening the case could undermine confidence in the judiciary, just months after the UK government deployed troops to deal with the start of the troubles. The release of this latest evidence comes almost two years after The BelTel’s series on the murder of the judge’s daughter.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by former Belfast Telegraph journalist Stephen Gordon.

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The Murder of Patricia Curran (Pt2): Why wasn't her family investigated?

Wed, 21 Aug 2024 23:05:03 GMT

Patricia Curran’s mutilated body was discovered just 40 yards from her home at 2 o’clock in the morning on the 13th of November 1952.

She was a judge’s daughter – savagely stabbed to death - the pressure was on to find her killer.

An innocent - but compromised man - Ian Hay Gordon, was eventually blackmailed into signing a confession and sent to a Psychiatric hospital – only to be quietly released and packed off to home to Scotland.

In this episode of the BelTel, Journalist Stephen Gordon, tells us about meeting Patricia’s brother Desmond – who spent his life as a Catholic Priest in South Africa – a life some think was an act of redemption.

And we ask the biggest question of all – if Ian Hay Gordon didn’t kill Patricia – then who did?

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The Murder of Patricia Curran (Pt1): How an innocent man was stitched up for it

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 23:05:31 GMT

The early hours of the morning on the 12th of November 1952, a judge’s daughter, Patricia Curran, is found dead in the garden of her family home. She had been stabbed 37 times.

The BelTel looks at the shocking killing and how Ian Hay Gordon Gordon, a young Scot doing his national service in the RAF, was intimidated into signing a false confession, frightened that his mother would find out about his sex life.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by journalist Stephen Gordon, who’s been fascinated by this horrific murder for a long time.

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Doug Beattie: Sam McBride on what next for UUP after shock resignation

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 14:46:35 GMT

In a surprise move, the Ulster Unionist leader Doug Beattie has resigned. The former army officer said he quit over ‘irreconcilable differences’ with party officers. What exactly has happened and what does it mean for the party?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride.

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Northern Ireland’s ‘Murder Triangle’ (Part 3): Margaret Perry and the IRA execution of her alleged murderers

Sun, 18 Aug 2024 23:05:10 GMT

The body of Portadown woman Margaret Perry was found a year after she went missing, the bodies of three men the IRA itself accused of her murder were found three days later. The IRA also accused them, all members or former members, of being British agents. Their bodies were found by different roadsides in Northern Ireland’s ‘murder triangle’. Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar. This podcast was originally published in January 2024.

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Puberty blockers for transgender children and Northern Ireland's potential legal loophole

Sun, 11 Aug 2024 23:05:23 GMT

The Labour government has extended a ban on puberty blockers in the UK mainland. However, Stormont's Department of Health has confirmed that puberty blockers for children will remain legal in Northern Ireland, meaning that NI could become a backdoor for getting the drugs into Britain. Olivia Peden is joined by Sam McBride who wrote the story, Helen Joyce and Alexa Moore.

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BelTel Sport: Can anyone stop Irish League champions Larne from winning the Gibson Cup for a third season in a row?

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 23:05:13 GMT

The new Irish League season gets underway this weekend with Tiernan Lynch’s Larne chasing their third Sports Direct Premiership title in as many years.

Can anyone stop them?

Host Keith Bailie is joined by Chief Sportswriter Steven Beacom and Belfast Telegraph columnist and legendary Linfield manager David Jeffrey to discuss disappointing performances in European competition, the format of the top flight and give their verdict on each of the 12 Premiership teams.

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Belfast riots: Allison Morris on three nights of disorder

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 16:18:56 GMT

An anti immigration protest on Saturday afternoon has resulted in three nights of violence across South Belfast. Several businesses have been attacked, including a supermarket owned by a Syrian refugee and one man has been seriously assaulted. With further protests planned for this weekend, policing is in the spotlight.

Alison Morris is joined by Belfast Telegraph visuals editor, Kevin Scott.

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Ex-PUP deputy leader John Kyle on Gusty Spence and prospects of Irish Unity

Sun, 04 Aug 2024 23:05:53 GMT

Dr John Kyle is a former deputy leader of the PUP, the UVF’s political wing. He represented the loyalist party on Belfast City Council for 16 years. He joined the party after being inspired by UVF leader Gusty Spence and PUP leader David Ervine’s vision to transform their communities. He joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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INLA accused of receiving Russian State ‘Dark Money’ amid Republican group’s ‘support’ for war in Ukraine

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 23:05:49 GMT

The INLA are suspected of receiving ‘dark money’ from the Russian State. The paramilitary group has had an upsurge in activity over the summer, being blamed for an attack on a west Belfast homeless charity. Public and vocal support of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has come from members of the IRSP, the political wing of the INLA. This week, Continuity IRA boss John Connolly was also seen supporting Russia from the British embassy in Dublin, calling the war in Ukraine ‘a proxy war’ funded by NATO.

Olivia Peden is joined by Sunday Life’s John Toner.

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Assembly's censorship of Martin McGuinness accusation about Peter Robinson overturned... after 26 years

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 23:05:44 GMT

Hearing what our politicians have to say is a crucial part of democracy. But back in 1998, The Assembly censored words spoken by Martin McGuinness to Deputy DUP leader Peter Robinson. After a legal battle lasting over two years, the Belfast Telegraph can now report on what exactly they are. Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride and Mediahuis Ireland solicitor Thomas Turner.

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The birth of the Irish Republican Brotherhood, and why they disappeared after the Easter Rising

Sun, 28 Jul 2024 23:05:39 GMT

The 1916 Easter Rising was organised by a tiny group of conspirators. They were the Military Council of the Irish Republican Brotherhood - a small, oath bound organisation dedicated to achieving an Irish Republic by any means necessary, including violent insurrection. Despite the impact of the Rising, the IRB was eclipsed in history by the IRA and faded away in less than 10 years. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by John O’Beirne Ranelagh, author of ‘The Irish Republican Brotherhood, 1914-1924'.

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2024 Olympics: As the games begin, who are the NI athletes going for gold?

Fri, 26 Jul 2024 23:05:49 GMT

The 2024 Olympics have officially started, but it's been 36 years since a Northern Irish athlete brought a gold medal home. The long wait for an Olympic champion could end this summer, with Northern Ireland having its fair share of star athletes competing for Team Ireland and Team GB. Keith Bailie is joined by the Belfast Telegraph's Chief Sportswriter Steven Beacom to preview what promises to be an incredible fortnight of sport.

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The Kew Files: Sam McBride unveils Secret memos on NI Secretary of State's IRA Intelligence Concerns

Thu, 25 Jul 2024 23:05:22 GMT

Sir Patrick Mayhew was Northern Ireland’s secretary of state between 1992 and 1997, a time when the peace process was just beginning, and the Troubles were still raging.

Files uncovered by the Belfast Telegraph in The National Archives at Kew in London have revealed new details about a secret memo Mayhew sent to PM John Major. The classified message suggests the IRA was in a stronger position at the time than previously thought, and questions some of the received wisdom about the intelligence war against the Provisionals. Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar with his recent findings from the Kew Files.

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All-Ireland Football Final 2024: Armagh alive with excitement as ticket scramble continues

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 23:05:53 GMT

Armagh will face Galway in the Orchard County’s first All-Ireland final since 2003. Armagh only ever won once, back in 2002. Galway's last Sam Maguire was just the year before, in 2001. The excitement is building and the scramble for tickets is intense as pre-match analysis begins.

Niamh Campbell is joined by Oisín McConville, Jessica Rice and Lee Costello.

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Gusty Spence and the brutal beginnings of the modern UVF

Sun, 21 Jul 2024 23:05:07 GMT

Since the UVF’s formation, the paramilitary group has went on to kill over 500 people. Gusty Spence became infamous for leading the organisation and deciding their tactics. The ex-British Army soldier was charged and convicted with the first Catholic victim of the troubles. Aaron Edwards, author of ‘UVF: Behind the mask’ joins Ciarán Dunbar to discuss the origins of the modern UVF, the role of Gusty Spence and the first five years of the organization.

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Whitney Hughes jailed – what next for Newry’s ‘Cocaine Queen’?

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 23:05:07 GMT

31-year-old Whitney Hughes has been handed a 4-year sentence for drug offences. The so called ‘Cocaine Queen’ of Newry took over her father, Mark ‘The Chicken’ Lovell’s crime gang after he was gunned down in December 2022. Hughes admitted seven drug offences relating to possessing and supplying cocaine, MDMA and steroids, two counts of trading in counterfeit goods and one of possessing criminal property. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Brett Campbell.

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"The Falls Road started it, the Village will finish it": Children encouraged to riot in south Belfast disorder

Wed, 17 Jul 2024 14:32:57 GMT

A 38-year-old man has been arrested last night as violence continued in south Belfast.

The past two nights have seen disorder in the village area. On Monday over 30 petrol and paint bombs were thrown at police, with footage captured by Belfast Telegraph showing a firework being thrown at a police Land Rover and a masked man encouraging a child to partake in the violence. Olivia Peden is joined by Belfast Telegraph Visuals editor Kevin Scott.

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The Border Fox: Allison Morris reports as former INLA gunman Dessie O’Hare walks free

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 23:05:05 GMT

The so-called ‘Border Fox’, Dessie O’Hare, has been released from prison. He is best known for kidnapping a dentist and chopping his fingers off. Originally an IRA man, O’Hare was one of the most notorious gunmen of the Troubles, confessing to being the triggerman in at least 26 murders.

Guest: Allison Morris

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Denis Bradley: Hume, McGuinness, dissidents just “stone in the shoe” filling jails - but Irish must talk to them

Sun, 14 Jul 2024 23:05:58 GMT

Former priest Denis Bradley played a key role in the peace process as part of the ‘back-channel’ between the IRA and the British. His decision to become vice-chair of the Northern Ireland Policing Board in 2001 drew the anger – and violence of dissident republicans. He gives Ciarán Dunbar his assessment of how to deal with dissident republicans today – he says the Irish government must talk to them.

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BONUS: “A dingo’s got my baby” – The story that divided Australia

Sat, 13 Jul 2024 13:30:45 GMT

In August 1980, a pastor, his wife and their three children went on a camping holiday that would change their lives forever and become one of the biggest stories in the world. “A dingo’s got my baby” were the words that divided Australia as Lynn Chamberlain was accused of a shocking crime.

Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Malcolm Brown

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The deaths of the Quinn children, the UVF murder which changed Northern Ireland

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 23:05:05 GMT

The petrol bomb attack happened at the height of bitter disputes over parading Even by the standards of the Troubles the murder of the Quinn brothers on the 12th of July 1998, it shocked NI. The contentious parades issue which had caused deep tensions was changed overnight, albeit never solved, as society saw the issue with a fresh perspective. The horrific deaths of three children forced a rethink on all sides.

Liam Tunney joins Ciarán Dunbar to tell the story of the tragedy, and its continuing impact.

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Ian Paisley: At just 57, what will ex-MP do after shock defeat?

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 23:05:40 GMT

Sam McBride on why Ian Paisley Jr lost his seat and if this is truly the end of Paisleyism. And could he head off and work for Farage or even Trump?

Host: Ciarán Dunbar

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Suzanne Breen: Fantastic election for Jim Allister, Robin Swann and Sorcha Eastwood

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 09:29:31 GMT

A quiet general election campaign turned into an incredible results night resulting in seismic changes. The Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen gives her assessment of the General Election results in Northern Ireland.

Host: Ciarán Dunbar

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General Election NI: DUP disaster – Paisley loses North Antrim, Lagan Valley falls

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 09:22:20 GMT

The DUP have suffered a series of defeats in the general election including Ian Paisley's North Antrim seat.
Alliance have won Lagan Valley with Sorcha Eastwood but lost North Down and Stephen Farry.
In a great night for them, Sinn Féin have held all their seats comfortably.
SDLP hold their seats.
The UUP's Robin Swan wins South Antrim

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Jeffrey Donaldson: Sex abuse case goes to trial as charges increase to 18

Wed, 03 Jul 2024 12:51:20 GMT

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson will return to court in the autumn to formally answer historical sex offence charges. He and his wife Lady Eleanor appeared in Court in Newry on Wednesday morning. The number of charges he faces is now 18 - an increase of seven alleged offences since his last appearance in court.

Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Liam Tunney and Allison Morris, who were in court in Newry.

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General Election ’24: BelTel / LucidTalk polls show strong SDLP and Alliance but DUP struggling

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 15:30:37 GMT

NI will elect 18 new MPs on Thursday. Most of the seats seem easy to predict but the pre-election Belfast Telegraph / LucidTalk poll suggests there will be some really close battles, most involving Alliance.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Bill White from Lucid Talk, political commentator Alex Kane, and former election manager with the SDLP - Ray Kennedy.

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The Falls Road Curfew: The raid on the Official IRA which turned west Belfast against the British Army

Sun, 30 Jun 2024 23:05:12 GMT

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Brian Hanley, and by Belfast Telegraph columnist and author Malachi O’Doherty.

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BONUS: Taylor Swift - The dark side of fandom

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 11:05:56 GMT

As Taylor Swift brings her Eras Tour to Ireland, we look at how her fans have made her a global success and created an army of followers - some of which have become a threatening force.

Host: Ellen Coyne Guests: John Meagher & Clare Martin

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‘Walter Mittys’: Why men like Nick Adderley lie about military careers, and Northern Ireland's 'Walts'

Thu, 27 Jun 2024 23:05:51 GMT

A ‘Walter Mitty’ is someone who lies about, or exaggerates, their military service. Being a so-called ‘Walt’ is technically legal in the UK but vigilante ‘Walt hunter’ groups campaigning for legislation against it. Northern Ireland has its fair share of fantasists including one fake cop who called for back-up. Why do they do it, and are they really doing any harm? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph's Kurtis Reid and Olivia Peden, who also spoke to Professor of Defence mental health at Kings College London, Neil Greenberg.

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Nigel Farage: The controversial politician’s near-death experiences, failed campaigns, and what he thinks of Northern Ireland

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 23:05:36 GMT

The man once known as the face of Brexit is back. Nigel Farage claims that after the election, his party Reform UK will be the head of opposition in parliament. He has stood for parliament 7 unsuccessful times, been member of three different parties, and had three near-death experiences along the way. How did Nigel Farage get here, can he win this time, and what does he think about Northern Ireland? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Journalist and author of ‘One party after another – the disruptive life of Nigel Farage’ Michael Crick.

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Sam McBride grills Alliance’s Stephen Farry as he fights to keep North Down

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 23:05:44 GMT

Sam McBride sat down with Stephen Farry, asking him the tough questions on his vision for North Down, on his views about gender issues and why his his first worlds in Westminster were in Irish.

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West Belfast UDA Boss Mo Courtney and the £10,000 extortion of Shankill ‘Granny Bingo’

Sun, 23 Jun 2024 23:05:55 GMT

Convicted Killer and West Belfast UDA boss Mo Courtney has blamed on trying to extort cash from a local pensioner who runs an online ‘granny bingo’. Loyalist sources say Courtney ‘fined’ the organiser of the illegal online game £10,000 and ordered her to pay him £100 per week protection money. Courtney, who denies any links to criminality, accused the woman of “bringing Catholics” onto the Shankill Road in Belfast. Olivia Peden is joined by the Sunday Life’s Ciaran Barnes.

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Allison Morris: UVF men bused in to east Belfast and Ardoyne parade dispute re-emerges from hibernation

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 23:05:08 GMT

A 1,500 strong UVF show of strength has raised questions about what is going on in the organisation. What’s going on with the UVF and why are parade tensions re-emerging in Ardoyne?

Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Allison Morris.

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General Election 24: Suzanne Breen and Peter Donaghy on the polls and a focus on Foyle

Tue, 18 Jun 2024 23:05:54 GMT

With the Westminster Election looming, Northern Ireland’s parties continue to fight their traditional battles. To catch up with what’s been happening on the doors and in the polls, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by renowned data analyst Peter Donaghy to hear his predictions, Belfast Telegraph Political Editor Suzanne Breen on recent developments, and Foyle-based Belfast Telegraph reporter Garrett Hargan with a profile on the constituency.

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Out of fashion? Amnesty International's Patrick Corrigan makes the case for human rights

Sun, 16 Jun 2024 23:05:41 GMT

Ciarán Dunbar sits down with Patrick Corrigan of Amnesty Internation to discuss whether human rights apply to everyone equally, what’s happening in Israel / Palestine and whether the case of Julian Assange means the west is in no position to lecture.

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BONUS: French Alps quadruple murder - The family, the cyclist and the DNA tests

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 16:05:22 GMT

12 years ago, a cyclist in the French Alps made a gruesome discovery one sunny autumn afternoon. The bodies of 4 adults, each of whom had suffered gunshots to the head. Miraculously, two children had survived the bloodbath. Who were they? Why were they killed? And why are French police still looking for answers after all this time? Tabitha Monahan is joined by Catherine Field.

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Colonel Tim Collins: “I’m going to win - there's no doubt about that” - Outspoken UUP candidate sits down with Sam McBride

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 23:05:45 GMT

Colonel Tim Collins was the commanding officer of the Royal Irish regiment, who led them into battle in Iraq. Now he’s the UUP candidate for North Down. Collins has strong views on immigration, abortion, transgender issues, his rivals, and the future of Northern Ireland. Sam McBride sat down with Tim Collins to hear who he really is, what he believes, and his plans if he gets elected.

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Sinn Féin takes hit, Farage endorses DUP candidates, and concerns over lack of female candidates

Tue, 11 Jun 2024 23:05:51 GMT

Mary Lou McDonald is “sorry” this week after disappointing results in Irish local elections. In Northern Ireland, Nigel Farage has disappointed the TUV by endorsing DUP candidates. And just 33% of NI candidates in the General Election are women – why?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by David McCann, while Claire Williamson speaks to Aoife Clements, and to MLA Cara Hunter.

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20 women murdered in NI since 2020 - why do men keep killing?

Sun, 09 Jun 2024 23:05:04 GMT

20 women who have been murdered in Northern Ireland since 2020. Three of these murders have been in the last 7 months, with the latest being 81-year-old Patricia ‘Patsy’ Aust. Her brother has been charged with her murder. Compared to the rest of the UK, women here are twice as likely to be murdered in NI as a result of domestic violence. Do we have a problem? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sarah Mason, CEO from Women's Aid, with Women's Aid, and Karen Devlin, membership and policy at Women's Aid.

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Lyra McKee Trial: Court told rioting was orchestrated to ‘put on a show’ for MTV camera crew

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 16:24:02 GMT

The trial of three men charged in relation to the murder of Lyra McKee is continuing. The court has heard that rioting on the night she was killed was orchestrated to “put on a show” for an MTV camera crew. A Constable testified how Lyra “stumbled and fell to the floor” as she stood among a group of women beside a police Land Rover. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Ashleigh McDonald, who has been following the trial.

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2024 General Election: Suzanne Breen on what happens if DUP’s Gavin Robinson loses his seat and if Sinn Féin can make gains

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 23:05:26 GMT

The campaigning has begun, the posters are up, and soon Northern Ireland will be going to the polls. Where can Sinn Féin make gains, could Belfast end up without Unionist representation, and what would Gavin Robinson losing his seat mean for the DUP? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph political editor Suzanne Breen and former editor of The Impartial Reporter Denzil McDaniel.

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UVF, UDA and ‘Russians’ in gun panic - arms allegedly held by loyalist could be linked to unsolved murders

Sun, 02 Jun 2024 23:05:47 GMT

Loyalist Billy ‘Beachball’ McCune is facing charges of possessing firearms in suspicious circumstances. He doesn’t deny having the guns but claims he was a “go-between” for the community and UDA. McCune is now understood to be under threat from the owners of the guns - the UDA, the UVF and an organised crime gang known as the Russians. The UDA and UVF fear two of them were used in murders they carried out. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Northern Editor of Sunday World Richard Sullivan.

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Murdered in her own home: Belfast Man given life sentence after brutal murder of Caoimhe Morgan

Fri, 31 May 2024 23:05:26 GMT

Caoimhe Morgan was a 30-year-old mother of four. She was brutally murdered by her partner in her North Belfast home whilst two of her children were present at the property. Taylor McIlvenna has been found guilty of her murder but could be out in just 17 years despite having a lengthy criminal record. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Kurtis Reid, who was in court.

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Eamonn Holmes: Shock divorce, ‘bitter’ tax bill and those Philip Schofield comments

Thu, 30 May 2024 23:05:58 GMT

The shock divorce of Eamonn Holmes and Ruth Langsford have left viewers to wonder where it all went wrong for the TV double act.

It’s not the first showbiz conflict Holmes has been involved in, after he was one of the loudest voices amid Phillip Schofield's high-profile ITV departure.Tabitha Monahan is joined by Belfast Telegraph features editor Áine Toner.

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MTV footage of accused shown as Lyra McKee trial opens in Belfast

Thu, 30 May 2024 16:11:00 GMT

The trial of three men charged in relation to the murder of Lyra McKee has begun. The 29-year-old died after being shot in the head by a new IRA gunman in the Creggan area in Derry in April, 2019. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Kurtis Reid, who was in court.

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GE 2024: David McCann and Lee Reynolds on the NI seats to keep an eye on

Tue, 28 May 2024 23:05:45 GMT

On 4th July, Northern Ireland’s 18 parliamentary constituencies will decide who they will send to Westminster. A number of constituencies will see change in July, including Jeffrey Donaldson’s Lagan Valley seat. Meanwhile, PM Rishi Sunak’s plans to reintroduce national service have been seen by some as the wrong move for attracting younger voters. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by lecturer and political commentator David McCann and former DUP Spad and commentator Lee Reynolds.

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The Kew Files: Sam McBride on IRA decommissioning and how it almost collapsed the Good Friday Agreement

Sun, 26 May 2024 23:05:50 GMT

IRA decommissioning was an historic political event that has been clouded in secrecy for decades. Files uncovered by the Belfast Telegraph, in The National Archives at Kew, have revealed new details about how the road to decommissioning weakened first minister David Trimble, fueled the rise of the DUP, and almost collapsed the Good Friday Agreement. They also reveal how foreign spy satellites played a part in getting the IRA to destroy their weapons. Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar with his findings from the Kew Files.

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"People were buried outside my house": Irishman on escaping Ukraine

Thu, 23 May 2024 23:05:51 GMT

In February 2022, business consultant Brendan Murphy was living in Irpin, a small city near Kyiv. That month, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, with Irpin as one of their initial targets. Brendan wrote ‘War in Ukraine: An Irishman’s Journey’, to tell the story of his family’s escape from Ukraine and his experience of the country. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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GE 2024: What's Sunak thinking and can the Tories avoid a wipe-out?

Thu, 23 May 2024 13:51:43 GMT

Outside a rainy Downing Street yesterday, Rishi Sunak set the date for the summer general election for the 4th of July. He says it is now time for Britain to choose its future, whilst Labour leader Keir Starmer says it’s time for change. Why has it been set for July, can the conservatives avoid a wipe-out, and what surprises can be expected during this campaign? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Chris Hopkins, Political Research Director at Savanta, a market research consultancy based in London.

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LucidTalk: Should Donaldson resign as MP and is a United Ireland inevitable?

Tue, 21 May 2024 23:05:38 GMT

The Belfast Telegraph’s latest LucidTalk polling reveals opinions on whether Sir Jeffrey Donaldson should resign as an MP, party support, and how well the public feel think political leaders are doing. It also polls opinion on whether DUP founding member Wallace Thompson is right to think a United Ireland is inevitable.

Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Bill White, Alex Kane, and Ursula Savage.

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Ex-Ulster rugby player Paddy Jackson voices ‘concerns’ over TV dramatisation of 2018 rape trial

Sun, 19 May 2024 23:05:11 GMT

Ulster Rugby player Paddy Jackson, who was one of the key people at the Belfast rape trial of 2018, has expressed his concerns over a proposed six-episode TV series that will dramatise the court case that rocked Northern Ireland. The trial, where Jackson and fellow Ulster rugby player Stuart Olding were found not guilty of the charges against them, has a problematic legacy in Belfast and beyond. Fionnán Sheehan is joined by Special Correspondent with the Irish Independent Ellen Coyne.

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Jonathan Creswell, the murder of Katie Simpson and the three-woman cover-up

Thu, 16 May 2024 23:05:02 GMT

Jonathan Creswell was a showjumper, philanderer, abuser, and eventually, a murderer. He murdered a young woman, Katie Simpson, claiming she took her own life. The PSNI initially believed him, despite his previous criminal record, which included assaulting his ex-partner and threatening to put her into a bath of bleach. Two days into the murder trial he took his own life. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Sunday World’s Steven Moore and Court Reporter Tanya Fowles – who from the beginning was determined Creswell wouldn’t get away with murder.

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Arlene Foster 'roasted' as she's accused of deflecting questions in tetchy day at Covid Inquiry

Wed, 15 May 2024 16:21:48 GMT

Arlene Foster has been accused of deflecting questions at the Covid Inquiry. The former first minister was grilled about her role during the pandemic. In questioning by barrister Clair Dobbin, Mrs Foster said she has “deep regret” over the executive’s response during the early days of the outbreak. Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Michelle O’Neill left 'flapping' under Covid cross-examination , Sam McBride reports

Tue, 14 May 2024 16:14:51 GMT

First Minister Michelle O'Neill has apologised for attending the funeral of IRA leader Bobby Storey at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. She had long said she would never apologise for being at the funeral.

Sam McBride reports.

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Allison Morris: PSNI accused of ‘Stasi’ tactics over keeping tabs on ‘troublemaker’ journalists

Sun, 12 May 2024 23:05:02 GMT

The PSNI had journalists they considered “troublemakers” under surveillance. It’s led to the force being accused of acting like the Stasi. But who was being spied on? Why and how?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent, Allison Morris and solicitor Niall Murphy.

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Sam McBride: Covid Inquiry reveals Stormont’s ‘rotten system’

Thu, 09 May 2024 16:51:09 GMT

The Covid-19 pandemic was an unprecedented event all over the world. NI Officials and ministers are now under scrutiny as they appear before the Covid-19 Inquiry to account for the decisions they made. The Belfast Telegraph’s Sam McBride is following the inquiry. He tells Ciarán Dunbar what it has revealed about Northern Ireland’s politics.

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Lordship: The murder of Adrian Donohoe and the runaway Co. Armagh suspect - part two

Mon, 06 May 2024 23:05:50 GMT

After the murder of Adrian Donohoe, the main suspect Aaron Brady boarded a one-way flight to America. He had no intention of ever returning to Ireland. His departure instigated an international police investigation that would span multiple years, resulting in a murder trial plagued with dirty tricks and witness intimidation.

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Lordship: The murder of Adrian Donohoe and the runaway Co. Armagh suspect – Part One

Sun, 05 May 2024 23:05:00 GMT

What goes in to catching a garda killer?

In January 2013, Detectives Joe Ryan and Adrian Donohoe from Dundalk garda station were tasked with escorting credit union takings across Cooley Peninsula, on the border with Northern Ireland. The men were ambushed and Garda detective Donohoe was shot dead. What followed was the largest murder investigation in the history of the Irish state. Aaron Brady, a tug from Crossmaglen, was the lead suspect from early in the case. He later vanished.

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EXTRA: The extraordinary life of Stephen Grimason, the journalist and top Stormont Spin doctor who broke news of Good Friday Agreement

Sat, 04 May 2024 14:00:59 GMT

Stephen Grimason was the journalist who waved the Belfast Agreement on our television screens with the iconic quote: “I have it in my hand”. The former BBC political editor Stephen Grimson later became the head of Stormont’s press operations. He passed away last week following a long illness. Last year, Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride sat down with Grimason to discuss his extraordinary career.

This episode originally aired on 5th April 2023.

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BelTel Sport: Linfield and Cliftonville set to face off in tense Irish Cup Final

Thu, 02 May 2024 23:05:23 GMT

This Saturday's Irish Cup Final sees Cliftonville play Linfield at a sold-out Windsor Park. It’s set to be one of the most eagerly anticipated cup finals in a generation, however, safety concerns from both teams have led to a security bill of £50,000. Keith Bailie is joined by Belfast Telegraph chief sportswriter Steven Beacom, ex-Linfield manager David Jeffrey and Belfast Telegraph sports reporter Conor McLaughlin.

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Sunningdale and the Ulster Workers Strike (Part Three): Who really won?

Tue, 30 Apr 2024 23:05:27 GMT

Loyalism stood triumphant. The Ulster Workers Strike succeeded. It brought down the Sunningdale executive, the council of Ireland binned, power-sharing shelved . It seemed like total victory. But was it?

In the final part of a three-part series, Ciarán Dunbar looks at the long-term legacy of Sunningdale Agreement and the Ulster Workers Strike – and asks, who really won?

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Sunningdale and the Ulster Workers Strike (Part Two): The loyalist ‘revolt’

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 23:05:48 GMT

Northern Ireland had never seen the like of the Ulster Workers Strike – a rebellion against the state – by loyalists. The strikers wanted an end to the Sunningdale power-sharing executive and everything that went with it. It was mostly peaceful but was punctuated by the bloodiest day of the Troubles – the Dublin Monaghan bombings.

In Part 2 of a three-part series – Ciarán Dunbar looks at how the Ulster Workers Strike began, and why.

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Sunningdale and the Ulster Workers Strike: The forgotten power-sharing ‘experiment’

Sun, 28 Apr 2024 11:50:17 GMT

In 1973 the ‘Sunningdale Agreement’ established power-sharing in Northern Ireland, preceding the Good Friday Agreement or Belfast Agreement by 25 years. It even had an All-Ireland dimension. But it met with a backlash and was brought down by the Ulster Workers Strike.

In the first part of a three-part series, Ciarán Dunbar explores the Sunningdale Agreement and its workings – and asks if it ever had a chance?

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Warrenpoint-based Michael O’Loughlin breaks gangster code by admitting crimes

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 23:05:23 GMT

Michael O’Loughlin was arrested in Co Down in 2020 as part of a Europe-wide crackdown on organised crime. He was one of the first criminals arrested in the Encrochat hacking scandal. But why is the career criminal now pleading guilty to the charges against him?

Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Allison Morris

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Jeffrey Donaldson in court over historical sex offences

Wed, 24 Apr 2024 15:13:10 GMT

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson and his wife Lady Eleanor Donaldson have appeared at Newry Magistrates Court to face historical sex charges. He was escorted into the court by the PSNI amid chaotic scenes. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney and crime correspondent Allison Morris.

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Col Tim Collins ruffles Alliance feathers, Irish signs ‘traumatise’

Tue, 23 Apr 2024 23:05:49 GMT

Andrew Madden and Ursula Savage join Ciarán Dunbar to discuss the week in politics. Colonel Tim Collins has been in the news after branding the Alliance Party ‘pro-nationalist'. The former soldier will be standing for the UUP in North Down in the next general election. As a possible general election looms, Health Minister Robin Swann sets sights on South Antrim's seat while questions arise over whether or not Naomi Long will campaign for East Belfast. The issue of Irish bilingual signs continues to cause controversy in Belfast.

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Newtownards Falklands and Troubles veteran on the reality of war

Sun, 21 Apr 2024 23:05:40 GMT

Graham Eve boasts a military career which spanned over 8000 miles. A member of the 2nd Parachute Regiment in NI he witnessed 16 of their men being killed in the Warrenpoint ambush in 1979. His service later carried him to the Falkland Islands, where scenes got even bloodier. The former Paratrooper and gun team commander joins Olivia Peden.

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Suzanne Breen on Jeffrey Donaldson’s potential replacement in Lagan Valley

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 23:05:19 GMT

The arrest of DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson at the end of last month came as a shock to those in the party and beyond. Although he is now an independent MP, questions now have to be answering about who the DUP will stand in the general election. Donaldson’s resignation could prove an opportunity for the Alliance Party to gain a seat in Lagan Valley. Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Middle East on the brink after Iran's unprecedented revenge attack on Israel

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 16:52:06 GMT

As the death toll in Gaza reaches 35,000, there has been a dangerous spike in tensions across the Middle East. In a serious escalation of the crisis in the region, Iran made its first ever direct attack on Israeli soil on Saturday, sending hundreds of drones and missiles across the desert, the majority of which were intercepted by the Iron Dome system. But as the West urges restraint, is a larger conflict in the region on the horizon?

Host: Fionnán Sheehan. Guests: Declan Power and Claire Herriott

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The Kew Files: Sam McBride on the secret papers on Peter Robinson, Ulster Resistance and Emma Little-Pengelly's father

Sun, 14 Apr 2024 23:05:06 GMT

The Kew Files have revealed some of Northern Ireland's hidden secrets on unionism and loyalism. In part 2 of a 2-part special of the BelTel, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to discuss the Kew Files and what they can tell us about Ex-DUP leader Peter Robinson, Ulster Resistance and the paramilitary activity the UK Government suspected Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly's father, Noel Little.

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The Kew Files: Sam McBride and the secret files on Martin McGuinness, the IRA and SDLP

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 23:05:43 GMT

Thousands of declassified files on Northern Ireland and the troubles have been deposited, not in Belfast, but in the Kew Archives in London. In part 1 of a 2-part special of the BelTel, Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride to discuss the Kew Files and what they tell us about Martin McGuinness, the IRA and the SDLP.

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A United Ireland: Inevitable or a fantasy?

Tue, 09 Apr 2024 23:05:47 GMT

Nationalists continue to campaign for planning a united Ireland, but Unionists seem assured it’s a pipe dream – where does the truth lie – or is it impossible to say? Is a United Ireland a realistic prospect or pure fantasy, inevitable or impossible? David McCann and Owen Polley join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Gerard ‘Hucker’ Moyna: From killing Lenny Murphy for the IRA to IPLO feuds

Sun, 07 Apr 2024 23:05:58 GMT

Prolific republican gunman Gerard ‘Hucker’ Moyna has died aged 69. He has been linked to several murders – including that of Shankill Butcher Lenny Murphy. He was also believed to be involved in the killing of solicitor and unionist politician, Edgar Graham – as well as IPLO spokesman, Jimmy Brown.

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar .

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Private Investigator: Ian Withers on tracking the IRA, informing for the Seychelles government and murder allegations

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 23:05:12 GMT

Globe-trotting Private Investigator Ian Withers reflects on his extraordinary career, from speaking to Gerry Kelly in prison after the 1973 Old Bailey bombing, tracking the IRA’s Hyde Park bomber with a bluffed phone call and being arrested on suspicion of the murder of an exiled politician from the Seychelles. He joins Andrew Madden.

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Sam McBride and Allison Morris on Jeffrey Donaldson’s arrest and what it means for the DUP

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 23:05:06 GMT

Northern Ireland Politics were thrown into chaos at the weekend when Jeffrey Donaldson resigned as DUP leader. He’s been charged with historical sex offences, while his wife Eleanor Donaldson has been charged with aiding and abetting. With a general election looming, can the DUP survive this crisis? Allison Morris and Sam McBride join Olivia Peden.

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Jeffrey Donaldson resigns as DUP leader after being charged with historical sex offences

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:44:22 GMT

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has resigned as DUP leader after being charged with historical sex offences. The Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride explains the implications of this political earthquake to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Ian Hurst: The Army ‘spook’ who exposed Scappaticci and accuses McGuinness

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 00:05:53 GMT

Ian Hurst worked with the British Army’s ‘Force Research Unit’ during the Troubles. He later exposed Freddie Scappaticci as the agent known as Stakeknife. Controversially, he also maintains former IRA leader Martin McGuinness was compromised, even claiming he protected Scappaticci. He gives his version of events to Ciarán Dunbar

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Simon Harris and NI, Sinn Féin heckled left and right

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 00:05:42 GMT

Tom Galvin and Andrew Madden join Ciaran Dunbar to explain who Simon Harris is and what he might mean for Northern Ireland. And with Sinn Féin being heckled from both the right and the left, we ask what it might mean electorally.

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Megan McAlorum: Murderer of west Belfast teen dies in road crash

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 00:05:44 GMT

Sixteen year old Megan McAlorum’s body was found in a Dunmurry forest in 2004 after a night out. Her body was found with 54 fractures to her skull, among other injuries. Thomas Purcell, who claimed to be 16 at the time, brutally killed her after picking her up from a west Belfast bar. He died in a road crash in Oxford earlier this month. Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Pat McArt: Derry, the Troubles and Martin McGuinness

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 00:05:26 GMT

As editor of The Derry Journal during the Troubles, Pat McArt found himself a trusted critic and counsellor to political giants like Martin McGuinness and John Hume. His new book, ‘War, Peace and the Derry Journal’ chronicles Derry’s devastation during the troubles and the city's move towards peace. He joins Belfast Telegraph Derry reporter Garrett Hargan.

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Pearse McCauley: The life and crimes of the IRA garda killer and wife beater

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 00:05:54 GMT

*A warning, today's episode contains details of domestic violence which listeners may find upsetting*

Terrorist, garda killer and prolific wife beater, Pearse McCauley’s long litany of convictions have established him as one of Ireland’s most dangerous criminals for over 30 years. The IRA man made the headlines in the early 1990s for a daring escape from an English prison, but his shooting of a garda in 1996, would wrap his name in infamy.

Host: Tabitha Monahan, Guest: Alison Morris

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Sam McBride's week in politics: TUV, Reform, Gaza and Biden

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 00:05:54 GMT

The TUV have hooked up with Reform UK but what is in this arrangement for both parties and who is Reform UK anyway? And Sinn Féin went to America despite of pressure from the left to boycott the visit, due to US support for Israel’s military campaign in Gaza.

Sam McBride joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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Millionaire heiress to IRA mastermind - Rose Dugdale, the renegade debutante

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 15:31:02 GMT

Rose Dugdale died in her sleep in a Dublin nursing home yesterday morning at the age of 83.She was the former debutante who once curtseyed to Queen Elizabeth, only to rebel against her wealthy upbringing and become an expert bomb-maker in the Provisional IRA. Fionnán Sheehan is joined by journalist Liam Collins.

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Is Ukraine losing the war, and how far will Russia go?

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 00:05:40 GMT

Russia’s army has made some advances in eastern Ukraine, forcing the Ukrainians onto the back foot. The pope has controversially called for Ukraine to raise the “white flag”. How bad are things for Ukraine, what would Russia’s peace terms be, and what would life be like in a Russia-ruled Ukraine? Trinity College teaching fellow Conor Daly and security consultant Philip Ingram join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Red Army Faction member captured after 30 years, who were the terror gang?

Sun, 17 Mar 2024 00:05:55 GMT

An armed German terrorist has been captured after 30 years on the run – but the manhunt for others continues. Daniela Klette is one of three members of the “third generation” of the notorious urban guerrilla Red Army Faction (RAF) who had been in hiding since the 1990s. We look at the terror campaign by Germany's Baader-Meinhof Gang, whose members killed more than 30 people in the 1970s and ’80s and ask if the organisation is having a resurgence?

Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: James Jackson

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Eamonn Mallie: ‘Eyewitness to War and Peace’

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 00:05:03 GMT

Eamonn Mallie is one of NI’s best-known journalists. The south Armagh man has been a leading radio and television reporter since 1975, covering much of the Troubles and subsequent peace process.

The veteran journalist discusses his memoir with Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sam McBride: What will PM Starmer mean for NI and a border poll?

Wed, 13 Mar 2024 00:05:51 GMT

A Labour general election victory means Sir Keir Starmer, who has a long history with NI, would become Prime Minister. Once in favour of a united Ireland, he’s now strongly unionist – would he rule out a border poll?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride and Bill Bowring.

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Britain’s worst mass murders – what drove the killers?

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 00:05:28 GMT

Despite tough firearms laws, the UK has seen several horrific gun massacres. Hungerford, Dunblane, and the Cumbria shootings, to name but a few. They were mass killings, carried out by a single man, who finally took his own life. Craig Jackson is a professor of psychology and performs ‘psychological autopsies’ on the mass killers responsible for Hungerford and Dunblane on stage. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Oscar drama: The scandals, snubs and controversies that shook Hollywood

Sat, 09 Mar 2024 17:00:00 GMT

As Cillian Murphy keeps his fingers crossed for an Oscar win, the Academy Awards looks forward to celebrating its 95th anniversary. However, Hollywood’s biggest night isn’t always without controversy and scandal. From violence to nudity and political protests, we look at the most shocking moments from the Academy Awards history.

Host: Fionnán Sheehan. Guest: Dave Hanratty

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OnlyFans: NI 'pornstar' defends her work - but is it empowerment or exploitation?

Fri, 08 Mar 2024 00:05:05 GMT

Due to the rise of platforms like OnlyFans, Sex work has been subject to a media frenzy in recent years. The issue has long been met with outrage by religious groups and radical feminists alike, who believe that the trade exploits women. But a bill created by the DUP, which made paying for sexual services illegal, has only convicted one person in under a decade. Olivia Peden is joined by adult actress and OnlyFans content creator Meghan O’Neill, along with Belfast Telegraph columnist Fionola Meredith.

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Alliance Party members begin to lean towards Irish unity

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 00:05:18 GMT

More Alliance members would now vote for Irish unity than to remain in UK. Almost 38% of Alliance members said they would vote for a united Ireland. So has Alliance fundamentally changed and will it be forced off the constitutional fence? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Jon Tonge and Suzanne Breen.

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Allison Morris: Antrim ATM raiders jailed – but where’s the money?

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 00:05:21 GMT

More than £2 million is missing after a string of ATM thefts carried out by the same notorious Co Antrim gang. They got away with it for two years encouraging many copy-cat raids. But after robbing an ATM machine beside a PSNI station – they got caught and banged up. But most of the money was never found.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris.

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How BDSM fetish chatroom led to mass murder in Fermanagh

Fri, 01 Mar 2024 00:05:02 GMT

WARNING: This episode of the BelTel contains graphic details which some listeners might find disturbing.

Daniel Allen admitted killing an entire family, including two children in Fermanagh in 2018. The Gossetts were a reclusive – constantly on the move to avoid social services. Denise Gossett begun a relationship with Allen after they met on a BDSM forum. Just two years later he killed her, her children and her grand-daughter.

Kurtis Reid spoke with Ciarán Dunbar.

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Allison Morris: Supergrass Haggarty's evidence 'unreliable' as UVF man not guilty of Convie & Fox murders

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 15:49:06 GMT

James Smyth has been found not guilty of killing Eamon Fox (41) and 24-year-old Gary Convie. Mr Convie and Mr Fox were in a parked car awhen they were shot dead in May 1994. Mr Justice O'Hara said it could not be proven beyond reasonable doubt that Smyth was the gunman. Allison Morris reports.

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Casement Park: Will stadium controversy poison atmosphere at Stormont?

Tue, 27 Feb 2024 17:17:35 GMT

The proposed new stadium at Casement Park in west Belfast is hoped to be part of the 2028 Euros but that has enraged some Northern Ireland fans. Meanwhile, a Stormont row brews over the rising costs. Sinn Féin place major importance on rebuilding the GAA stadium while unionists question its funding.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Liam Tunney and Keith Baille.

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Davy Tweed: Stepdaughter on life with former Ireland rugby player and ‘violent paedophile’

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 00:05:44 GMT

Amanda Brown has written a book, ‘No peace until he’s dead’, explaining what former Irish rugby star Tweed did to her and her family.

Davy Tweed was a popular, well-liked, successful man in public.But he was also a violent wifebeater and a paedophile who prayed on his relatives, .

Amanda tells the BelTel that she has spoken out to make sure that Davy Tweed’s abuse is never forgotten.

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Conor Bradley: How the young Tyrone man took Liverpool and the Premier League by storm

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 00:05:32 GMT

County Tyrone’s Conor Bradley has been described as the most exciting footballer to emerge from Northern Ireland since ‘60s legend George Best. The Liverpool ace has taken the Premier League by storm in recent weeks, with his surging runs down the right-flank winning the hearts of the Anfield faithful. How did he get here, and what’s next? Belfast Telegraph sports Journalist Keith Bailie is joined by Ulster Herald sports journalist Tommy Nethery and Belfast Telegraph chief sportswriter Steven Beacom.

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That Girls' night in the Devenish: Pleasure Boys shock, but some think it's just 'a bit of fun'

Fri, 23 Feb 2024 00:05:24 GMT

The word ‘shocking’ gets bandied about loosely these days, but videos and photographs that have circulated after an X-rated Valentine's weekend event in Belfast have caused anger, scandal and even fury in some communities - but for many others it's just a private bit of fun. Host: Fionnán Sheehan, Guests; Niamh Campbell, Kirsty Blake Knox and John Woodward, manager of the controversial Pleasure Boys

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BelTel LucidTalk poll: Is there now support for a united Ireland?

Wed, 21 Feb 2024 00:05:35 GMT

The results of the latest Belfast Telegraph LucidTalk poll are in. Support for the DUP has slightly weakened, while support for Sinn Féin First Minister Michelle O’Neill is at an all-time high. And we reveal the level of support there now is for a United Ireland. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by head of LucidTalk Bill White, Political commentator Alex Kane, and Belfast Telegraph reporter Allison Morris.

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Texas and 'civil war': The Russian disinformation campaign stoking division in the US

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 14:58:11 GMT

Would you know disinformation if you saw or heard it? And might you be seeing it now in the U. S. on topics such as immigration around the Texas border? If you are seeing this, might any of it be influenced by actors such as Putin's Russia?

On this week’s episode of The Big Tech Show, Adrian talks to David Gilbert, a reporter for Wired.com who specialises in investigating disinformation.

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Life beyond Earth and UFOs: What does the ‘evidence’ tell us?

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 00:05:32 GMT

The question of whether humanity stands alone in the universe is one of the biggest questions there is. Is there life beyond earth, and if there is, is it intelligent life? Can the evidence of UFOs and alien contact be trusted? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Astrobiology Professor David C. Catling, and Sunday World reporter Níall Feiritear, who has had an experience that has convinced him.

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BelTel politics: Where’s Stormont going to get the cash from?

Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:05:15 GMT

Health, education, and roads are just some of the areas Stormont needs to spend big on. But now the exchequer has ordered the Executive to raise £113 million. How could ministers achieve that and is NI poorly funded in comparison with Scotland and Wales?

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Margaret Canning, Kurtis Reid and David McCann.

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'I spoke to Ian Bailey the day before he died' - The expert who questions his guilt

Wed, 14 Feb 2024 08:27:07 GMT

“I certainly could find nothing that led me to believe in Ian Bailey’s guilt.” That’s according to a retired UK senior forensic officer who has investigated the murder case of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Bridget Chappuis was in communication with Bailey right up to the day before he died, not with the aim of proving his innocence, but with the hope of finding the truth about one of Ireland’s most notorious unsolved murder mysteries. Host: Kevin Doyle , Guest: Bridget Chappuis.

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McGladdery: The last man hung in Northern Ireland for the vicious murder of Pearl Gamble

Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:05:39 GMT

The morning after a dance in a Newry orange hall, 19-year-old Pearl Gamble’s body is found at the end of a trail of blood. Suspicion immediately falls on 25-year-old Robert McGladdery, known locally for his predatorial behaviour. Less than a year later, McGladdery is the last man to be hanged on the island of Ireland. Historian Joe Baker and Charlie McSherry, a neighbour of Pearl Gamble, join Ciarán Dunbar to tell the story of her vicious murder.

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Ireland and Palestine: Will Sinn Féin skip the annual White House Visit?

Sat, 10 Feb 2024 00:05:58 GMT

The Republic of Ireland has found itself as a European outlier in its broad public support for Palestine throughout the ongoing war in Gaza. With the annual St Patrick's day visit to Washington around the corner, will the government use the opportunity to advocate for peace? Will Sinn Fein boycott the visit? And how do acts of solidarity impact the conflict people are outraged by? Tabitha Monahan is joined by Ellen Coyne and Hugh O'Connell.

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East Belfast UVF: PSNI cocaine crackdown brings down gang

Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:05:00 GMT

Following the murder of Ian Ogle in 2019, the PSNI felt the pressure and resolved to strike a blow against UVF cocaine dealers – that operation has seen a raft of convictions. Who are the kingpins, the enforcers and the bookkeeper behind the drug trade in east Belfast? Sunday Life reporter Ciaran Barnes joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Stormont Return: Sam McBride and David McCann on how’s it going

Tue, 06 Feb 2024 16:38:39 GMT

The Stormont Assembly and the executive are back in action, although there have been some obstacles on the way. Sinn Fein expressed their surprise at the DUP’s pick of the education ministry, TUV’s Jim Allister has said he will be a ‘thorn in the side’ of the Assembly, and the SDLP have suspended an MLA over a helicopter trip to Wexford. How has the return gone so far and what lies ahead? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride, political commentator David McCann and Irish language activist, Ciarán Mac Giolla Bhéin.

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RAF Chinook crash: The Mull of Kintyre tragedy

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 00:05:52 GMT

Just before 6pm on 2nd June 1994 an RAF Chinook helicopter leaves from Aldergrove. On board are 25 key intelligence officers including members of the army, MI5 and the RUC. Although set for Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, they never make it, crashing into the Mull of Kintyre. Why did they crash? was there a cover-up? and why was the cream of UK intelligence travelling on an aircraft which the RAF had concerns over? Belfast Telegraph reporter Andrew Madden joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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"I never had any doubt that Ian Bailey killed Sophie Toscan du Plantier"

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 18:00:00 GMT

The death of Ian Bailey in Cork leaves many unanswered questions in the murder of Sophie Toscan du Plantier. Irish Independent journalists Senan Molony and Ralph Riegel share their meetings and stories with Ian Bailey over the past 27 years.

Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guests: Senan Molony & Ralph Riegel

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Sir Jeffrey strikes a bargain: What’s in the DUP’s new deal?

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:09:42 GMT

It seems that Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has won the battle - the DUP leader is taking the party back to Stormont after securing a new deal with the government. Is it a good deal? has Sir Jeffrey achieved his goals? and where does anti-agreement unionism go from here? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Liam Tunney and commentator Owen Polley.

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DUP return to Stormont: Who is Jamie Bryson’s ‘mole’?

Tue, 30 Jan 2024 17:16:22 GMT

Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has convinced the majority of the DUP that it’s time to restore power sharing. Following a bizarre evening of social media leaks, protests and secret meetings, the party leader made the announcement in the early hours of the morning. Is Sir Jeffrey’s leadership in a stronger position than before, how are Loyalist voters feeling, and who is Jamie Bryson’s ‘mole’? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Allison Morris and political commentator and lecturer Jon Tonge.

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Kneecap: Critics rave over film but unionists rage over its funding

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 00:05:47 GMT

West Belfast group Kneecap regularly court controversy – but is that just part of their act? Singing mostly in Irish about drugs, the DUP and social exclusion the band have made a film about themselves starring Michael Fassbender. It has attracted rave reviews, but some victims of republican violence perceive the band to be glorifying republicanism. But what’s the band really about?

Niamh Campbell is joined by Liam Tunney and Dave Hanratty while Olivia Peden spoke to ex-PSNI officer Jon Burrows.

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Sinn Féin: Where does the party stand on immigration?

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 20:00:00 GMT

Immigration has become a big talking point in the Republic of Ireland in a very short space of time - and it's likely to become a key electoral issue. The main opposition party, Sinn Féin, is widely tipped to win forthcoming elections. So where does Mary Lou McDonald and her party stand on the issue of the moment, and could they make a move to the right if that's what voters want?

Host; Tabitha Monahan, Guests; Gabija Gataveckaite & John Downing

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DUP Update: Sir Jeffrey throws down the gauntlet

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 16:16:30 GMT

In a passionate speech earlier this week Jeffrey Donaldson said threats wouldn’t stop him from engaging with the UK government. Is the DUP leader ready to face down his opponents or will he continue to condemn the Windsor Framework and to boycott Stormont? Will his party agree with him or is it set to split? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph Journalist Andrew Madden, along with commentators Sarah Creighton and Owen Polley.

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Europe 2024: What's lies ahead for the EU with Donald Trump on the horizon?

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 00:05:46 GMT

Against a backdrop of a rising far right and war across the globe, Europe goes to the polls in June. Why is Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán seen as the ‘black sheep’ of the EU? How will Trump’s likely return to the White House affect the Union? And as war in Gaza rages on, will the EU stand with Israel no matter what? Shona Murray, Euronews Europe correspondent, joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Margaret Perry and the IRA’s execution of her alleged murderer

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 00:05:11 GMT

The body of Portadown woman Margaret Perry was found a year after she went missing, the bodies of three men the IRA itself accused of her murder were found three days later. The IRA also accused them, all members or former members, of being British agents. Why was Margaret murdered? Who were her murderers and did one British agent kill three others?

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar

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Rose Dugdale: The English millionaire debutante who joined the IRA

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 00:05:01 GMT

Born in England into immense wealth and luxury, Rose Dugdale turned her back on riches to become a bombmaker, a thief and a terrorist. But why did she abandon her life of privilege for the IRA?

Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guest: Liam Collins

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The United Nations: Why is it so powerless as wars continue to rage?

Wed, 17 Jan 2024 00:05:03 GMT

Prof Jussi Hanhimäki argues the international body is still important, despite the challenges it faces.

But what exactly is the UN? What is its role today?

And with the body impotent in the face of wars from the Congo to Gaza – has the time come for major reform?

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The Foundlings: Three siblings abandoned alone search for fourth ‘foundling’

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:05:48 GMT

This is the story of three long-lost siblings, all abandoned in mysterious circumstances in Lisburn, Dundalk and Drogheda, who unbelievably found their way back to each other many years later. But there could be a fourth ‘foundling’ and they need your help to find them…

Host: Kevin Doyle Guests: Catherine Fegan, Helen Ward & David McBride

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Kevin Conway: ‘Firm’ member slain in west Belfast gangland murder

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 15:32:23 GMT

Kevin Conway, originally from the Lurgan area, was shot dead in Belfast on 9th January. Linked to ‘The Firm’ he was one of three men charged in relation to the murder of Shane Whitla in Lurgan in January 2023. The area has seen several high-profile assassinations in recent years linked to a single dissident republican gunman. Allison Morris reports.

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Post Office scandal: “They knew what was going on”

Wed, 10 Jan 2024 00:05:23 GMT

Described as one of the biggest miscarriages of justice in UK history, between 1999 and 2015 over 700 postmasters and postmistresses were wrongly accused of stealing money from their branches. Some were bankrupted, losing their houses, livelihoods and life savings, and others served prison sentences. It was later revealed the missing money was due to a fault in a computer program. Kurtis Reid joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Best of the Beltel: Colm Murphy, the veteran republican found liable for Omagh Bombing

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 00:05:05 GMT

South Armagh republican Colm Murphy died earlier this year at the age of 70. He had been convicted but later acquitted of involvement in the Omagh bombing. He was later found liable in a civil court for the 1998 attack which killed 29 people. Murphy was at various points a member of the Provisional IRA, the INLA, the Real IRA, and was linked to the Óglaigh na hÉireann dissident group. The Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris profiles him and explains what he was like in person.

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Best of the BelTel: How romance monster Phillip O'Shea went from online catfisher to real life stalker – and how he got caught (Part 2)

Wed, 03 Jan 2024 00:05:38 GMT

Philip O’Shea was initially charming when he contacted vulnerable women online. He was a friend, a flatterer, someone who could help. But his true intentions emerged very quickly – he was a cruel catfisher who forced women to send him compromising pictures. And it didn’t stop there, in this episode of the BelTel Sharon O’Neill tells Ciarán Dunbar how O’Shea went from online harassment to real-life stalking, and how he eventually got caught.

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Best of the BelTel: Romance monster catfisher threatens dozens of women – just for kicks (Part 1)

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:03:59 GMT

Philip O’Shea is a prolific online predator who lurked behind fake profiles, first coming across as charming friendly and flirty, then going in for the kill in an orgy of cruelty.

He forced them to send compromising pictures of themselves to him, blackmailing them not for money but for his own perverted satisfactions.

Sharon O’Neill tells Ciarán Dunbar how he managed to ensnare his victims.

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Best of the BelTel: The 'living hell' of winning the Lottery

Fri, 29 Dec 2023 00:05:28 GMT

We all dream of winning the Lottery, but then we hear stories about how winning the millions sent some people’s lives into a tailspin. The self-described ‘king of the chavs’ Michael Carroll being a famous example. Some have described winning the Lottery as a living hell that they would not wish on their worst enemies - can that fate be avoided? And should you tell people, or could you try and keep your win a secret? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests Aine Toner and Kathy Garrett.

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Best of the BelTel: The life and crimes of Ballymena’s 'Cocaine King' Noel Johnston

Wed, 27 Dec 2023 00:05:10 GMT

On October the 15th, 2021, the PSNI launch a raid an apartment in Ballymena, as part of a wider operation against drug in the town. The man who lived there was 61-year-old Noel Johnson. Moments later, he was dead. Once an acquaintance of Liam Neeson, this Catholic from Loyalist Harryville had been known as the ‘cocaine king’ of Ballymena. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by John Laverty, who knew Noel Johnston well.

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Best of the BelTel: John DeLorean, the man who brought the future back to Belfast

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:05:09 GMT

John DeLorean was an eccentric but brilliant engineer. He had remarkable success in the US automotive industry, but he dreamed of striking out by himself and building a futuristic sports car. Incredibly, he was enticed to build that car in Belfast in the middle of the Troubles. Hollywood brought the DeLorean to the big Screen and the car, despite its obvious flaws, gained an iconic status.

Andrew Madden joins Ciarán Dunbar

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Best of the BelTel: ‘How a cult brainwashed me, and how I escaped’

Fri, 22 Dec 2023 00:05:08 GMT

Ian Haworth never imagined that he would fall for it, he never thought he would lose his mind and freedom to cult – but that is what happened.

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Best of the BelTel: Gerard Mackin, the Belfast-born Kinahan enforcer the criminal underworld fears

Wed, 20 Dec 2023 00:05:35 GMT

He has been in the Continuity IRA and in INLA. He was given a one-million-euro contract by the Kinahan crime clan to take out their arch-rival Gerry Hutch.

Born in west Belfast, Gerard Mackin’s crime CV is formidable and his earned him the reputation as one of the most violent criminals in Ireland.

The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris tells his story.

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Stalkers, sexism and Santa: Could Christmas movies like Love Actually be made today?

Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:05:57 GMT

December is drawing to a close, so it’s time for some seasonal escapism as we consider the humble festive art form that is... the Christmas movie. From heartwarming family classics, terrible turkeys to the downright weird and questionable, there truly is something for everyone on the big and small screen. But are the days of the family gathering around the TV and going through the schedule gone for good?

Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guests: Dave Hanratty and Dee Molumby

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‘Winkie’ Rea: The loyalist leader who led the Red Hand Commando

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 00:05:53 GMT

Winston Rea, known as Winkie Rea, died aged 72 at the beginning of December. He was the ex-leader of the loyalist terror group, the ‘Red Hand Commando’, and until his death was on trial in connection with two sectarian murders. He denied all 19 terror charges against him. Who was Winkie Rea, what was the Red Hand Commando, and had the ruthless paramilitary man really become a man of peace? Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Alison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Israeli ambassador says “absolutely no” to Palestinian statehood

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 00:05:04 GMT

Israel's ambassador to the UK has strongly reject the prospect of a future Palestinian state. Tzipi Hotovely told Sky News Israel will not accept a ‘two-state solution’

So – what is Israel’s end game and are they now risking alienating their key ally, the US, as they continue their campaign in Gaza, seeking to destroy Hamas.

Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Bel Trew, the Independent’s Chief International Correspondent.

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Alexei Navalny: Imprisoned but still Putin's greatest opponent

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 10:51:59 GMT

The imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny is no longer at the prison colony where he was being head. The loss of contact likely signals a Kremlin effort to tighten his isolation while President Vladimir Putin runs for re-election, his spokeswoman has claimed. A constant thorn in Putin’s side, could Navalny still play a role in the future of Russia?

Host: Rory Tevlin, Guest: Jason Corcoran

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Sam McBride: 'Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has struck a deal’

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:07:33 GMT

The Belfast Telegraph’s Northen Ireland editor, Sam McBride, joins Ciarán Dunbar with his assessment of what’s going on at Stormont.

Is Sir Jeffrey Donaldson about to jump, and if he does will his party jump with him?

The DUP says there’s ‘still some way to go’ in the negotiations on the Northern Ireland Protocol and Windsor Framework – others say the deal is done and we are just haggling over the price.

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Elon Musk: Who is the world’s wealthiest man?

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 00:05:37 GMT

Considered the richest man in the world, South Africa-born tech moghul Elon Musk is rarely out of the news. His controversial social media statements have made him a villain to some, but a hero to others. A father to eleven children from three women, Musk has also expressed worries of a global population collapse. Who is Elon Musk, where did he come from, and what does he want? Belfast Telegraph Technology Reporter Kurtis Reid joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Alan Scott: Ex-North Coleraine pastor under fire for alleged ‘spiritual abuse’

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 00:08:51 GMT

Glasgow-born Alan Scott led the ‘Causeway Coast Vineyard church’ until June 2017. Having felt called by God, he and his wife decided to take roles in the original Vineyard church in Anaheim California. Scott eventually decided to take the church out of the Vineyard movement, leading a group of members to sue him for 62 million dollars. This has led to reports into his ex-North Coast leadership alleging “public shaming” and “spiritual abuse” of members. Liam Tunney joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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The other IRA: The Story of the Officials and The Workers’ Party

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 00:05:44 GMT

Why did the IRA split in two, into the Provisionals and the Officials? The so-called ‘Stickies’ abandoned their armed campaign but never their guns – could the Official IRA still exist? Who were the personalities involved in the split and what became of the Workers’ Party?

Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Dr Brian Hanley, co-author of ‘The Lost Revolution: The Story of the Official IRA and the Workers Party’.

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Shane MacGowan: London-Irish punk, performer and poet

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 16:00:00 GMT

Shane MacGowan has died at the age of 65. From a poetry-fuelled middle class upbringing to the chaotic UK punk scene, MacGowan was an innovator, marrying punk with Irish music, the chronicler of the Irish émigré, and a poet who wrote about love, loss and the chaos of addiction.

Fionnan Sheean and John Meagher look at the life he led and the

lyrics he wrote.

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Longford double murder: Mysterious case linked to loyalists

Tue, 28 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

A mysterious double murder in Co. Longford in 1986 has been tied to Loyalists from Derry. Killed in their kitchen on a cold November night, Marie Murtagh (43) and Tom Taaffe (50) were mysteriously murdered in their farmhouse in the village of Aughnacliffe, Co Longford in 1986. Fionnán Sheahan is joined by Liam Collins, journalist with the Sunday Independent, who reported this gruesome murder at the time.

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Joris Minne: The recipe behind restaurant reviews revealed

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

When a restaurant review is published in the Belfast Telegraph, they can often attract a huge number of readers – especially if it is negative!Many dream of being a food reviewer, but what gives them the right to publicly slate local restaurants? What sets an establishment apart? And exactly how disastrous is a bad review for the business? Belfast Telegraph food reviewer Joris Minne joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Dublin riots: what happens next in Ireland's capital after night of anarchy?

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 17:33:58 GMT

Dublin is cleaning up the aftermath of violent scenes following a night of rioting, clashes with Gardaí (Irish police) and looting. The unprecedented scenes followed the stabbing of five people, including three children. What led to the chaos and where do we go from here? Tabitha Monahan is joined by head of news at Mediahuis group, Kevin Doyle, and Irish Independent technology editor Adrian Weckler.

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East Belfast UVF: Ciaran Barnes reports the latest on the drug dealer purge

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Twenty-two loyalists have been convicted in the past 18 months for dealing drugs connected the East Belfast UVF. The UVF’s Shankill Road based leadership has now ‘stood down’ several prominent figures in the notorious east Belfast battalion, to protect ‘transition’ funding. Ciaran Barnes, chief reporter with the Sunday Life, has the latest.

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The British Army's Troubles tactics: Sam McBride interviews expert Huw Bennett

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Sam McBride sits down with Military Historian Huw Bennett, author of ‘Uncivil war: The British Army and the Troubles’. The new book deals with how the troubles began, why they escalated so quickly, and the army’s role. The author discusses how the British military learnt to fight IRA guerilla tactics, the its fear of the UDA, and why the military obstructed his access to evidence of the Troubles.

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BelTel Sport: Linfield’s historic return to Solitude

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

For 28 years during the Troubles, it was deemed too dangerous for Linfield to play at Solitude, a football ground in the heart of Nationalist north Belfast. But in November 1998, the Blues finally travelled across the city to play the Reds at Solitude in one of the most significant games in the history of the Irish League football. Belfast Telegraph sports journalist Keith Bailie is joined by Chief Sportswriter Steven Beacom and then-Linfield manager David Jeffrey.

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UVF ‘clean-up’: Allison Morris on East Belfast battalion’s ‘stand down orders’

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Eight members of the East Belfast UVF have been told to stand down over links to criminality. Despite this, sources have said there is “no prospect” of a feud within the group, suggesting that a wind-down for the paramilitary group could be on the horizon. Belfast Telegraph security correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Rishi Sunak ‘reshuffles’ the deck, dumps Suella and brings back Brexit-Dave

Wed, 15 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Rishi Sunak’s cabinet reshuffle took many by surprise. Suella Braveman gets the boot, ex-PM David Cameron makes a shock return government and a new ‘minister for common sense’ emerges to fight left-wing “wokery”. What is going on in the Tory Party? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by TRT World Presenter Enda Brady.

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Authoritarianism: what is it, why are people attracted to it, and why is it on the march?

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Ciarán Dunbar gets an explanation of authoritarianism from QUB Politics Professor, Lee McGowan. Authoritarian states such as China, Russia, and North Korea are asserting themselves. And even in the west, populism, fascism and hard-left politics seek to undermine representative democracy. What is authoritarianism and why is it gaining ground?

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Mother, monster, killer: Who is the real Molly Martens?

Sun, 12 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

When Molly Martens arrived in Limerick in 2008, she seemed like an All-American Girl with the world at her feet. But that public persona - like many of the stories she told about herself - was just a work of fantasy. From mother to monster, from wife to Jason Corbett’s killer, who is Molly Martens?

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Sam McBride interviews Michael Cameron, former top NIO official, playwright and spouse to a DUP MLA

Sat, 11 Nov 2023 09:11:52 GMT

As a former top NIO civil servant, Michael Cameron found himself mixing with paramilitary bosses and powerful politicians. He would go on to marry a DUP MLA and even join the party. Eventually forced to quit work over an illness, he became a playwright. His first play sold out the Lyric Theatre before anyone had even seen it.

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The Ashling Murphy trial: how Jozef Puska tried to get away with murder

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Ashling Murphy, a 23 year old primary school teacher went for a run on the banks of the Grand Canal outside Tullamore, Co. Offaly – she never returned home. This is the story of how Jozef Puska tried to get away with her murder. Host: Fionnán Sheahan, Guests: Catherine Fegan and Eimear Cotter

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Lucid Talk: Border polls, party support and Casement

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

David McCann, Alex Kane and Bill White join Ciarán Dunbar to discuss the latest Belfast Telegraph / Lucid Talk polling. Among the subjects discussed, the criteria for a border poll, whether it should need a super-majority and the prickly subject of using Casement Park for Euro 2028.

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Suzanne Breen on Rishi Sunak boredom with NI & DUP, Sinn Fein’s sudden U-turn after heavy criticism and much more

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Belfast Telegraphs Political Editor Suzanne Breen talks with Ciaran Dunbar on Rishi Sunak’s boredom with Northern Ireland and the DUP, the backlash Sinn Fein has received on its stance with Israeli ambassador and the sudden U-Turn after being labelled “sell outs” and why a SDLP MLA is in hot water for becoming a GAA manager.

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Unsolved disappearances in the midst of the Troubles: The lost boys of Belfast

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

A compelling new documentary ‘Lost Boys- Belfast’s Missing Children’ has shed new light on the mysterious disappearance of FIVE children at the height of the Troubles. Only one body was recovered. All these tragic cases remain unsolved and unresolved.Were these cases linked? Did sexual predators take advantage of the mayhem for their own twisted perversion? Sharon O'Neill talks about the disappeared to director, Des Henderson and speaks to the only surviving mother of one of the missing boys, Anne Spence.

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The Palestinian-Israeli conflict explained: “Two peoples, one land”

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 00:05:00 GMT

The Israelis and Palestinians are two very distinct peoples, but geographically, Israel and Palestine are one and the same territories. How did this come about and is there any hope for the future? Martin Bunton is the author of The Palestinian-Israeli Conflict: A Very Short Introduction – he spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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The IRA's Mountjoy Prison Helicopter Escape and the manhunt that followed

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 11:24:03 GMT

50 years ago this week, Mountjoy Prison played host to one of the most dramatic escapes in history. It was a Halloween horror show for the onlooking guards as prominent Provisional IRA figures took to the sky. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Liam Collins.

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The witch trials of Islandmagee

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Islandmagee is a quiet civil parish on the east coast of Northern Ireland. But in 1711, a newcomer to the area begins to have fits, regurgitates pins and buttons, and suddenly dies. In the weeks following her death, eight woman and one man are found guilty of witchcraft at a local Courthouse – one man is executed. It was the last witchcraft trial in Ireland. Olivia Peden speaks to Dr Andrew Sneddon of Ulster University, and Martina Devlin, the author of “The House where it happened” about this mysterious event.

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Meet John Bew, the NI global policy expert with the ear of the PM

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Belfast-born John Bew is Rishi Sunak’s global policy advisor. He’s the key voice informing the PM’s foreign policy and has been seen in close consultation with him in recent weeks. The historian, a son of crossbench peer Lord Paul Bew, is now one of the most influential men at Downing Street. Belfast Telegraph reporter Andrew Madden joins Ciáran Dunbar to profile him.

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The 'Rules of War' explained

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 14:00:00 GMT

With war raging in the Middle East and Europe, we ask; have the lessons of the 20th century been forgotten? What are the rules of engagement for modern warfare? and who can we trust to enforce them?Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Declan Power

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‘Supergrass’ trial: Allison Morris breaks down UVF murder case

Tue, 24 Oct 2023 16:52:37 GMT

A fifty-seven-year-old man is currently on trial in Belfast’s Crown Court accused of murdering two catholic men. James Smyth from Forthriver Link, north Belfast, has denied murdering Gary Convie (24) and Eamonn Fox (41) in a gun attack in May 1994. UVF ‘Supergrass’ Gary Haggarty, who last seen in public in 2009, is giving evidence . Ciáran Dunbar joins Belfast Telegraph Crime Correspondent, Allison Morris, who has been following the trial.

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Fake News: Why do people believe it and how can it be fought?

Sun, 22 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Fake news seems to be everywhere online lately - but what exactly is it? Why do people spread it and can anything be done about it. Professor Julian McDougall joins Ciáran Dunbar.

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Black Magic: How the spooks used superstition against the IRA

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

At the height of the Troubles, the security forces found a new and unusual tactic in their fight against the IRA – ‘black magic’. How did this come about – and did people actually believe it? Richard Jenkins, author of ‘Black Magic and Bogeymen’ joins Ciáran Dunbar.

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Malachi O’Doherty: ‘How to fix Northern Ireland’

Sun, 15 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Writer and Belfast Telegraph columnist Malachi O’Doherty’s book ‘How to fix Northern Ireland’. It’s his take on what’s wrong and what has to be done. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Black Axe: Massive international gang now firmly established in Ireland

Sat, 14 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Nigerian gang Black Axe have gone international and are now based in Ireland, It specialises in romance and business email fraud. They are suspected of using these profits to finance murder, human trafficking and drug dealing worldwide. Who are the Black Axe Gang? Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Ken Foy

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Casement Park: The Euros are coming to Belfast, but NI fans divided

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland will be one of the hosts of Euro ’28 but Casement Park, an unbuilt GAA stadium, will be the local host ground. It seems to be great news - but some Northern Ireland fans are questioning what the benefit it will be for football and unionist politicians are raising questions over the costs. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Keith Baille.

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Politics: The Israeli-Hamas war and the NI split over it

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Sam Mcbride and Sarah Creighton join Ciarán Dunbar for an update on global politics, including how the Palestinian – Israeli conflict seems to divide Northern Ireland Also discussed are the prospects of Stormont’s return, the battle for the future of unionism and the SNP’s big troubles in Scotland.

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Explainer: Israel-Hamas war - what happened and what could follow

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:57:55 GMT

On Saturday, Hamas launched a series of unprecedented attacks on Israel killing hundreds of civilians. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of a “long and difficult war ahead.” So what happened in Israel and more importantly what could follow?Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guest: Bel Trew.

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Unsolved: The murder of Brian McDermott in 1973 Belfast

Sun, 08 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Even at the height of the Troubles, the murder of 10-year-old Brian McDermott was shocking. Brian’s body was eventually found in a sack in River Lagan. Bizarrely, the murder became part of a wider ‘black magic’ scare. Liam Tunney tells Brian’s story to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Máiría Cahill: "Republican movement underestimated my staying power"

Sat, 07 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

"Republicanism has different morals from the rest of us," Máiria Cahill has said as she spoke about her new book. She waived anonymity in 2014 when she detailed allegations of sexual abuse at the hands of an IRA member. As Sinn Fein’s political support brings it closer to power in the south, what does she count as the price of speaking out? Host: Ellen Coyne Guest: Máiria Cahill

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‘Children identifying as cats’: Where does fake news come from?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Tall tales of children ‘identifying as cats’ have gone viral in recent years. Journalists look into it, but somehow, they can never track down the school in question. Where are these stories coming from – how do they become so viral – and do people realise that they’re sharing nonsense? Belfast Telegraph technology reporter Kurtis Reid joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Patrick Devaney: Portaferry man’s reign of terror over teens in detention

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Patrick Devaney, an 81-year-old Portaferry man, has been jailed after inflicting years of abuse on teens sentenced to a borstal. His cruelty included beating children with cricket bats, sustained racial abuse and sick games forcing boys to fight. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by victim Andrew Parsons and Belfast Telegraph Journalist Liam Tunney.

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Ihab Shoukri and the UDA murder of Gerard Lawlor

Sun, 01 Oct 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Gerard Lawlor, a young father and Gaelic football player, was murdered in a drive-by shooting four years after the Good Friday Agreement. He was killed during a night of mayhem ordered by UDA boss Ihab Shoukri - his killing was the fifth gun attack in a four-mile radius that night as Loyalist paramilitaries searched for a Catholic victim. 21 years later, no one has been charged with the murder. Sunday Life Journalist Ciarán Barnes spoke to Ciarán Dunbar about the story.

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GB News scandal: Wootton sacked from MailOnline in fallout from Laurence Fox interview

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Dan Wootton has been sacked by the MailOnline after he was suspended by GB News for his interview with actor Laurence Fox in which Fox made remarks about the appearance of a female journalist Ava Evans. Who are the men at the centre of the scandal and what's behind their thinking?

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The DUP: Jeffrey Donaldson and the factions vying for the soul of his party

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Suzanne Breen joins Ciarán Dunbar with her assessment of what’s going on behind the scenes in the DUP as the party’s boycott of Stormont continues. The party has been refusing to take part in the Assembly until issues over the Windsor Framework post-Brexit trading arrangements are addressed.

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Pat Ward: The brutal murder which shocked a Tyrone village

Tue, 26 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Clogher is a quiet and peaceful close-knit community. But it was, on a Saturday morning in 2019, the scene of a harrowing murder. Father of four, Pat Ward, was beaten to death, who did it and why? Fionnán Sheehan is joined Kurtis Reid.

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Jay the Barber: From tragedy to triumph

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Jay Miller, aka ‘Jay the Barber’, is an entrepreneur with a successful barbering company and TikTok star. But his life was not always this way. Childhood tragedies saw Jays life spiral into drug addiction. But now he spends his life helping those in most in need. Jay Miller joins Sharon O’Neill to tell his incredible story.

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Sean Quinn: Bankrupt former billionaire tells his side of the story

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Belfast Telegraph journalist Andrew Madden has met Sean Quinn in his Fermanagh home. Seán Quinn says he wants to tell his version of how he lost his business empire. Meanwhile Gardaí continue to hunt for the ‘paymaster’ who ordered the attack on Kevin Lunney – one of the men who took over the Quinn businesses. Sean Quinn has always condemned the incident.

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Christine Connor: The ‘lone wolf’ republican

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar with the history of female republican prisoners, and how Christine Connor landed a 25-year sentence. There are more female republicans in prison now than at any time since the Good Friday Agreement. One of them is Christine Connor – the north Belfast woman used a fake profile picture – of a Swedish model – to lure two vulnerable men into helping with her one-woman campaign. Both later took their own lives.

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Russell Brand: The mounting allegations and now the financial fallout

Tue, 19 Sep 2023 17:31:57 GMT

He was a household Brand; from MTV, Channel 4 and BBC, to a wild night in Dublin, and even conquering Hollywood. What next for Russell Brand after a spectacular fall from grace? Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guests: Allison Morris and Dee Molumby.

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The Wolfe Tones: Despite the condemnation, young people are flocking to hear them – why?

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Wolfe Tones sing songs many interpret as pro-IRA. Commentators, politicians and victims of republican violence condemn them. But the Wolfe Tones seem to be getting more popular by the concert, packing out venues with thousands of fans. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Irish Independent columnist Sarah Carey and Irish Independent John Meagher to try and make sense of the Wolfe Tones phenomenon, but he starts off by speaking to the band’s founder, Brian Warfield.

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Putin and Kim Jong Un: What does the bromance mean for Ukraine

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Putin welcomes Kim Jong Un and his “moving fortress” to Russia. How will this new friendship affect the war in Ukraine and Russian relations with western powers? Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Jason Corcoran.

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Apocalypse Neagh: The source of 40% of NI’s water poisoned by bacteria

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland gets 40% of its drinking water from Lough Neagh but the lake has been polluted with deadly cyanobacteria. Both wildfire and pets died after being poisoned in the lake. We are advised not to eat fish caught recreationally in the lough – but despite that, commercial fishing continues. Whose fault is it? Sam McBride has been investigating this story, he joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Thomas Niedermayer: How the IRA murder of a German businessman led to the death of his family

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Thomas Niedermayer was kidnapped from his Belfast home in 1973. There was no ransom demand, no information. But there couldn’t be, because he had been murdered soon after and his body dumped. Shockingly, the eventual discovery of his remains led to the death of his wife and two of his children. Author David Blake Knox spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Sinn Féin: Aoife Moore's new book sets out to reveal the inner workings of Ireland’s largest political party

Sun, 10 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Aoife Moore’s new book on Sinn Féin is on the shelves and in the headlines. The Derry-born journalist’s approach to Sinn Féin has drawn the ire of some in the media – accusing her of not being hard enough on what is now Ireland’s largest party. She tells Ciarán Dunbar how and why she wrote ‘The Long Game: Inside Sinn Féin’, whether Sinn Féin will be able to keep their list of promises in power and how Gerry Adams almost fell following the revelations his brother Liam had raped his own daughter.

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Wallace Thompson: DUP founder tells Sam McBride ‘New’ Ireland is inevitable

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Wallace Thompson was a founder member of the DUP and a loyal follower of the late Ian Paisley. Now he feels that some form of Irish Unity is inevitable – why? He spoke to Sam McBride.

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Comedian Tim McGarry talks comedy, religion and the need for integrated education

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Tim McGarry and iconic on-screen character on screen 'Da', along with the likes of Uncle Andy and Billy the Peeler, has long been making fun of life and politics here. But it’s not all about comedy for Tim, he’s passionate about humanism and the cause of integrated education in Northern Ireland. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Policing in crisis: What next for the PSNI as Simon Byrne bows to the inevitable?

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In the end, Simon Byrne had to go. He had lost the confidence of the public and politicians – and above all, of his own officers. The final straw was a court ruling - that two junior officers were unlawfully disciplined. Where does this debacle leave the PSNI? Does Sinn Féin also have questions to answer? And what does this fiasco tell us about policing and politics in Northern Ireland? Sharon O’Neill, is joined by Allison Morris and Sam McBride

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‘A People Under Siege’: Author Aaron Edwards in conversation with Sam McBride on the history and future of Ulster’s unionists

Sun, 03 Sep 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Aaron Edwards is from Rathcoole in north Belfast but works at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, educating the British Army’s future officers. He sat down with the Belfast Telegraph’s Ireland Editor Sam McBride to discuss his new book ‘A People Under Siege’ – and where he believes the unionist community must go to secure the future of the Union.

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Putin after Prigozhin: Could he reach for the nuclear option to halt Ukrainian advance?

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Yevgeny Prigozhin’s brief uprising challenged Vladimir Putin in a way no one else ever has. Is the Russian president now in a stronger position or has he been weakened and with Ukrainian forces advancing, could a ‘cornered’ Putin reach for the nuclear option? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Jason Corcoran.

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Polls back Jeffrey Donaldson’s boycott of Stormont – so what next?

Tue, 29 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The latest Belfast Telegraph Lucidtalk polling tells us the majority of unionists are behind the DUP boycott of the NI Assembly and Executive. Does this mean that Stormont will never return? Alex Kane and Bill White join Ciarán Dunbar

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What would a Labour Government mean for Northern Ireland?

Sun, 27 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

With the Labour Party soaring ahead in the polls, Keir Starmer is predicted to become the next Prime Minister after the general elections. But what would a new Labour Party government mean for Northern Ireland?Keith Bailie is joined by David McCann and Sarah Creighton.

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Lucy Letby: We know what she did, but why did she do it?

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

We know Letby murdered babies and tried to kill many more but why? How did this young, intelligent, woman, with loving parents, become a mass murderer of the innocent? Psychology Professor Craig Jackson joined Ciarán Dunbar.

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Lucy Letby: Allison Morris breaks down the serial killer nurse case

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Serial killer nurse Lucy Letby will spend the rest of her life in prison after being convicted of murdering seven helpless babies. She has never admitted it, never apologised, never said why she committed such horrific crimes. The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris breaks explains the case to Ciarán Dunbar and its implications.

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The IRA murder of Andrew Kearney

Sun, 20 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In 1998 an IRA Punishment squad broke into Andrew Kearney's flat. They shot him three times and Andrew bled to death. He was cradling his 19 day-old baby daughter at the time. This attack was punishment for a bar fight two weeks previously with an IRA commander. Despite apologies from Gerry Adams, no one was convicted of his murder. Suzanne Breen interviews Andrews sister Eleanor Kearney King and his daughter Caitlin Darragh

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Best of the BelTel: The complex legacy of SAS legend Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

One of the founders of the SAS, Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne was a great soldier and a hero in his native town, Newtownards. But his legacy is a complicated one, he was not a model officer. His exploits in battle saw him earn many honours but he denied the Victoria Cross. Did the complex nature of the man muddy his legacy? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Andrew Madden. First Published on 09/12/2022

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BelTel Revisited: The murder of Sean Fox and the hitmen taking out the ‘Marbella Crew’

Tue, 15 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

BelTel Revisited: Sean Fox was gunned down while drinking in the Donegal Celtic Social Club in west Belfast, on Sunday 2 October 2022, in front of more than 100 people. It was the latest in a series of murders carried out in west Belfast linked to drug-dealing and the so-called ‘Marbella Crew’. Who is responsible for carrying out these killings and why? First Published October 10th 2022.

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Best of the BelTel: Bloody Friday- the IRA’s blitz of Belfast

Sun, 13 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The 21st of July 1972 was the most prolific day of IRA bombings during the Troubles. Nine people were killed and 130 injured as a blitz of 22 bombs detonated throughout Belfast in under two hours. That day has since become known as Bloody Friday. Why did it happen, how did it happen? First published July 21st 2022. Host Ciarán Dunbar, guests Malachi O’Doherty, Niamh Campbell and Aaron Edwards.

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BelTel Sport: Does the Irish League have a bright future or is it still stuck in the past?

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

With attendances on the rise, wealthy investors on board and more media coverage than ever before, Irish League football is on something of a high. But it’s not all rosy in the garden. The top clubs are yet to make a breakthrough in European competition, and the PSNI has announced a new strategy to deal with some of the problems that have dogged the game for decades. Host: Keith Bailie. Guests: Steven Beacom, David Jeffrey

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Unsolved: Why was the murder of Rosaleen O'Kane not investigated?

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

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PSNI Data Breach: officers left vulnerable due to ‘human error’

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:31:30 GMT

The PSNI has been plunged into crisis after an accidental data breach saw the details of over 10 thousand PSNI officers and staff made available online.With the terrorism threat already set to severe, police officers now fear for their immediate safety after their names, ranks and locations were circulated. Host: Keith Bailie. Guest: Sam McBride

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Brian Rowan: "We need outsiders to sort out the legacy of the Troubles"

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Former BBC correspondent tells Ciarán Dunbar that only an international body can help Northern Ireland deal with legacy issues. Brian Rowan is a well-known journalist and author. He passionately advocates that we must deal with the past as far if possible if we are to escape from it. He spoke to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Twitter becomes X: What is Elon Musk thinking and where can those fleeing the platform go?

Sun, 06 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

‘Twitter’ has become ‘X’. What is Elon Musk’s thinking, and could it actually be a good call? Some want to move on from the platform but what are the alternatives? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter, Kurtis Reid.

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QAnon: The ultimate conspiracy theory - the cabal, a shaman and a former US president

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Who is Q and why do so many people follow the QAnon conspiracy theory today? Host: Kevin Doyle Guest: Will Sommer

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Stormont: Politics isn’t working so does Northern Ireland have a workable plan B?

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 08:27:25 GMT

Northern Ireland’s political Assembly and Executive are moribund, and many commentators are now doubtful that they will ever return. Is it time for Plan B and if it is – what would that look like? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Allison Morris and Sam McBride.

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Ronan Hughes and ‘Mo’ Robinson: The Armagh people smugglers and their 39 victims

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 23:05:00 GMT

County Armagh lorry drivers Mo Robinson and Ronan Hughes are doing serious jail time for the manslaughter of 39 Vietnamese migrants who suffocated in a trailer being towed by Robinson. Hughes and Robinson were part of a Romanian / Northern Ireland people smuggling gang – and they were far from alone. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph crime correspondent, Allison Morris, who tells the shocking story of how the migrants lost their lives and who else was involved in this gang.

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Sinead O’Connor: Singer, songwriter, storyteller

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

From a troubled childhood to global fame, Sinead O’Connor’s unique voice, talent and personality captivated audiences across the world. Our sister podcast the Indo Daily looks at the life and legacy of the iconic ‘Nothing Compares 2 U’ singer.Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guest: John Meagher

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Will Northern Ireland ever solve its ‘flags’ issue?

Sun, 30 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

People in Northern Ireland have been arguing over flags for as long as anyone can remember. Time and time again police and politicians have argued over it, but with talks of new legislation being drawn up again, are we finally getting to a stage where the problem will be solved? Niamh Campbell is joined by Belfast Telegraph report Andrew Madden and Alliance MLA Paula Bradshaw to discuss.

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Best of the BelTel: Belfast Pride, how it began and what life was like for gay people in NI

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The first Belfast Pride was held in 1991, a handful of people took part. At that time, Northern Ireland which was much less tolerant and understanding of LGBTQ+ issues, sometimes leading people to take their own lives.Ciarán Dunbar speaks to Terry McFarlane.

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The Peace Train: The IRA’s campaign against cross-border trains and the group set up to oppose it

Tue, 25 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The IRA’s aim was to unite Ireland - so why did it do its best to stop cross-border railway services? It came very close to succeeding but were strongly opposed by an organization established to defy that that ambition. Who were the people behind the Peace Train movement, and did they succeed? And why did the IRA try and bomb the trainlines out of existence in the first place? Host: ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Dr Connal Parr

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The history of Pride: From the Stonewall Riots to Mardi Gras, how the LGBGT+ movement began

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

To celebrate Pride month, the Indo Daily finds out how the global parade got started and why the fight for equality and Gay rights goes on for the LBGTQ+ community. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Bill Hughes.

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Suwei Shang: Where is the woman who stabbed her Derry husband to death?

Sun, 23 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Suwei Shang was last seen 10 years ago when she left court after admitting killing her husband. After her arrest, more than £100,000 was discovered in her bank account leading detectives to suspect she had been working in the sex trade. But incredibly the courts let her out on bail as they decided on her sentence. Where could she be? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Ciaran Barnes

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Best of the BelTel: Patricia Curran, who really murdered the judge's daughter? (Part 2)

Fri, 21 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Patricia Curran’s mutilated body was discovered just 40 yards from her home at 2 o’clock in the morning on the 13th of November 1952. She was a judge’s daughter – savagely stabbed to death - the pressure was on to find her killer. An innocent - but compromised man - Iain Hay Gordon, was eventually blackmailed into signing a confession and sent to a Psychiatric hospital – only to be quietly released and packed off to home to Scotland. In this episode of the BelTel, Journalist Stephen Gordon, tells us about meeting Patricia’s brother Desmond – who spent his life as a Catholic Priest in South Africa – a life some think was an act of redemption. And we ask the biggest question of all – if Ian Hay Gordon didn’t kill Patricia – then who did?

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Best of the BelTel: The murder of Patricia Curran and the innocent man framed for it (Part 1)

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The early hours of the morning on the 12th of November 1952, a judge’s daughter, Patricia Curran, is found dead in the garden of her family home. She had been stabbed 37 times. The BelTel looks at the shocking killing and how Iain Hay Gordon, a young Scot doing his national service in the RAF, was intimidated into signing a false confession, frightened that his mother would find out about his sex life. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by journalist Stephen Gordon, who’s been fascinated by this horrific murder for a long.

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PROMO: ‘I’m Not Here to Hurt You’ – A new podcast about Ireland’s most ‘polite bank robber’

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 08:12:28 GMT

How does a high-flying academic become one of Ireland's most prolific bank robbers? From the award winning team behind the Indo Daily comes I'm Not Here to Hurt You. Out now, wherever you get your podcasts.

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Unsolved - the Dublin-Monaghan bombings and a search for the truth

Tue, 18 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Dublin Monaghan bombings on May 17th 49 years ago killed 34 people, including an unborn baby, and injured almost 300. Almost half a century on, no one has been convicted in connection with the bombings. Host: Siobhan Maguire. Guest: John Downing.

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Rise of the far-right: Across Europe once untouchable parties are making it in power

Sun, 16 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Across Europe political parties regarded as ‘far-right’ are gaining in strength and some are gaining power. Are they a threat to democracy, why is the left so weak and will we see the swing to the right continue? Politics academic and electoral guru David McCann joins Ciarán Dunbar.

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Best of the BelTel: Dissident Republicanism - why do they continue with violence?

Fri, 14 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Provisional IRA have long since ended its armed campaign but republican political violence continues. What do groups like the New IRA hope to achieve, why do they continue with what they would describe as ‘armed struggle’ and do they have political ambitions? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Dr Marisa McGlinchey.

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Drumcree: The crisis over an Orange parade which brought NI to the brink

Thu, 13 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Orange Order wanted to march home from a church service in Drumcree back into Portadown, and still does. But the nationalists living on the Garvaghy Road opposed what they saw as a sectarian march. The stage was set for a clash over rights, identity, and freedoms and it brought NI to the edge of anarchy. Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Mervyn Jess.

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UFOs: Former Air Force officer says US is hiding alien spacecraft… and bodies

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The US has given the wreckage of alien craft to defence contractors, a former Pentagon whistleblower has claimed. Some say we have to take him seriously and that the 'truth' about UFOs can't be hidden anymore. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Sarah Collins.

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Best of the BelTel: The Twelfth - what is the origin of Orange culture?

Sun, 09 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Twelfth goes back a long way.But what is the origin of the celebrations and of the Orange Order itself?Ciarán Dunbar is joined by historian Dr David Hume.

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Tubs: Ryan Tubridy, Noel Kelly & Dee Forbes – Profiling the 'talent', his agent & the director

Sat, 08 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The scandal engulfing RTE continues. The people at the centre of it, Dee Forbes, Noel Kelly and Ryan Tubridy have all made statements but are yet to answer questions.Who are they?Host: Tabitha Monahan. Guests: Melanie Finn and Kirsty Blake Knox

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The Best of the BelTel: Serial Killers - how are monsters made?

Fri, 07 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

We just can get enough of murder, horror and psychopaths. Why is that? And serial killers, are they born or made?Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Craig Jackson, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology, at Birmingham City University.

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Margaret Thatcher: The IRA's plot to kill the 'Iron Lady' in the Brighton Bombing

Thu, 06 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In 1984, a massive explosion rocked the Grand Hotel in Brighton, where the Tory party conference was being held. The bombing went down in history as one of the most audacious attacks on the British government since the Gunpowder Plot. The target, Margaret Thatcher and her entire cabinet. In the new book, Killing Thatcher, author and journalist Rory Carroll takes a look back at the attack and the consequences.

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Abusing witness protection: Allison Morris introduces the criminals given a new life paid for by the taxpayer

Tue, 04 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The witness protection scheme in NI has raised moral questions and lacks penalties for those who’ve exploited it and lied in court. For some of Northern Ireland’s worst criminals – it's like winning the lottery. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Allison Morris.

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Entrepreneurship: Could teaching young people how to start a business be the key to economic progress?

Sun, 02 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

According to Department of Communities figures from 2022 almost 250,000 in Northern Ireland live in absolute poverty – could entrepreneurship be a part of the solution? Ciarán Sheehan made the case for entrepreneurship to Ciarán Dunbar.

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The RTÉ grilling, Ryan Tubridy’s contract and Patrick Kielty’s pay

Sat, 01 Jul 2023 23:05:00 GMT

What did we learn from the 2 day grilling of RTÉ bosses by TDs and senators on the inner workings of the €345,000 which the State broadcaster paid top presenter Ryan Tubridy?Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guest: Gabija Gataveckaite & Hugh O’Connell

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Best of the Beltel: Men are far more likely to be criminals than women, why?

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

A staggering 96% of the people in prison in NI are men. Why are men much more likely to turn to crime and end up in jail than women?Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Dr Michelle Butler, Prof David Canter.

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Prigozhin, Putin, and what happens next in the battle for power in Russia

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 05:12:18 GMT

Yevgeny Prigozhin marched his Wagner troops to Moscow, the world watched and waited for a showdown between the mercenary fighters and Vladimir Putin. But it never happened. A deal was done. What's next for Putin, and is Prigozhin a dead man walking? Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Donnacha Ó Beacháin.

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EXTRA: What Director General Dee Forbes knew – RTÉ break silence on Ryan Tubridy pay scandal

Wed, 28 Jun 2023 11:29:51 GMT

RTÉ has released a statement finding there was "no illegality" involved in the undeclared payments to presenter Ryan Tubridy, but Dee Forbes was centrally involved in negotiations. Presenter Siobhán Maguire is joined by Irish Independent Ireland Editor Fionnán Sheahan to find out more.

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China and the USA: What’s driving tensions between the nuclear superpowers?

Tue, 27 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

China and the USA are world’s most powerful countries, both militarily and economically. Recent tensions between the two over the future of Taiwan, amongst a host of other issues are a concern for us all. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by international affairs expert, Angus Lambkin, who has lived in China, to get his analysis on the situation and whether he thinks it will result in conflict.

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Punishment attacks: ‘What does it say about us that we tolerate the beating, shooting and abuse of our children?’

Sun, 25 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Thousands of paramilitary attacks have been carried out in NI since the Good Friday agreement. Often, they are attacked by appointment – people turn up to be shot. Sometimes children are even accompanied by their parents, drugged up to dull the pain. Youth worker Stephen Hughes is based in Divis in west Belfast, he is active in the pressure group Stop Attacks which works to end these attacks forever. He spoke to Ciaran Dunbar.

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Best of the BelTel: Prigozhin - who is he and what is the Wagner group?

Sat, 24 Jun 2023 10:35:14 GMT

Yevgeny Prigozhin's Wagner group of mercenaries have rebelled against the Russian military. Putin called it “a stab in the back”. It is the biggest threat to his leadership in more than two decades in power.But who is he and what is the Wagner Group?This podcast was originally broadcast in February 2023.

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Good Friday Agreement: Alex Kane’s historic interview with David Trimble

Fri, 23 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

It has been 25 years since the first Assembly election following the Belfast Agreement. David Trimble, later Lord Trimble, was one of the key architects of the Belfast agreement, leading the largest unionist party at the time, the UUP. He died in July in 2022. In this bonus episode of the BelTel – we broadcast a remarkable in-depth interview from 2015 in which David Trimble gives his take on what happened during the peace process to Alex Kane.

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Suzanne Breen: Jamie Bryson sets up secret talks between UDA, UVF and top Tory Simon Hoare

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

A chance meeting between loyalist activist Jamie Bryson and Tory Simon Hoare led to the MP meeting loyalist leaders in Belfast. Northern Ireland Affairs Committee chairperson Hoare denies the meetings were secret negotiations, but they came as the government is trying to get Loyalists to buy into the Windsor trade protocol to help get Stormont back up and running. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by our political editor Suzanne Breen – who broke this exclusive story.

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Extra: Race against time: the search for missing Titanic tourist sub

Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:41:05 GMT

Disaster at 13,000 feet below sea level. A trip to see the Titanic has gone horribly wrong for the occupants of a submersible that has now lost contact. The Titan vanished with five people on board during a dive to the Titanic wreck site in the North Atlantic on Sunday. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Senan Molony

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‘Once Upon A Time in Northern Ireland’: Sam McBride interviews directors of stunning BBC doc

Tue, 20 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The BBC series Once Upon A Time in Northern Ireland has been hailed as the finest ever on the Troubles. Featuring contributions from loyalists, republicans, soldiers, police, victims and civilians who found themselves living in an acutely abnormal society, the impressionistic work evokes empathy for all sides. Sam McBride interviews directors James Bluemel and Sian McIlwaine.

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Artificial Intelligence: Is it really ‘far more dangerous than nukes’ as the likes of Elon Musk claim?

Sun, 18 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Science Fiction has become reality and Artificial Intelligence is a growing part of our lives. The technology becoming more advanced every week. But what is AI and why are people like Elon Musk warning us that it is dangerous? And if it is so incredibly threatening to us, then why are we developing it? Kurtis Reid and Kevin Scott join Ciarán Dunbar

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Unsolved: A right royal scandal – who stole the Irish Crown Jewels?

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In 1907, a theft at Dublin Castle ended up becoming a global story when the precious Irish Crown Jewels went missing. Scotland Yard, psychics and the author of Sherlock Holmes were brought in to try and locate the precious stones.Presenter Siobhán Maguire is joined by Sunday Independent columnist, Sarah Caden,

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The Monster of Romance (Part 2): How Philip O’Shea went from online catfisher to real life stalker – and how he got caught

Thu, 15 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

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The Monster of Romance (Part 1): ‘Evil’ catfisher threatens dozens of women – just for kicks

Tue, 13 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Philip O’Shea is a prolific online predator who lurked behind fake profiles, first coming across as charming friendly and flirty, then going in for the kill in an orgy of cruelty. He forced them to send compromising pictures of themselves to him, blackmailing them not for money but for his own perverted satisfactions. Sharon O’Neill tells Ciarán Dunbar how he managed to ensnare his victims.

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Chloe Mitchell murder accused ‘escaped three times from secure mental health facility’

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 14:14:09 GMT

The man accused of murdering Ballymena woman Chloe Mitchell (21) had absconded to the Ballymena area three times from a secure mental health facility, a court has heard. Chloe has been missing since the 3rd of June. Suspected human remains were found in Ballymena on Sunday. Liam Tunney was in court for the Belfast Telegraph as two mean appeared in relation to the case.

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Sam McBride: 'The state of Defence Forces shows the Irish government and republicans aren't seriously planning for a United Ireland'

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 08:32:40 GMT

Sam McBride argues that the strength of the Irish Army is a crude barometer of how seriously the Republic takes the possibility of unity. Ireland’s Defence Forces are small, underequipped and getting weaker as more and more service men and women abandon the ranks due to poor pay and conditions. But what about a united Ireland – if loyalism chose to resist it would Ireland’s armed forces be able to deal with that? This is part three of a three-part series.

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Queen Elizabeth II, the IRA and the FBI

Fri, 09 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

New files released by the FBI outline a plot to assassinate the late Queen Elizabeth as she visited America. The memos date back to 1983 when the Queen visited California as guest of President Reagan. But this was not the only alleged plot to remove Queen Elizabeth and the future King Charles from the monarchy. Host: Fionnán Sheehan

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Rory McIlroy on LIV Golf, The PGA Tour merger and Saudi Money: What next for golf?

Thu, 08 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

There has been a revolution in the multi-billion-dollar world of golf – and Rory McIlroy is its ‘sacrificial lamb’. The Holywood man had taken a stand against the Saudi-backed LIV Golf tour, remaining outspokenly loyal to the PGA Tour. But now, behind his back, the feud between LIV Golf, the PGA Tour and DP World Tour has taken a sudden turn. Where does McIlroy stand now? Adam McKendry is joined by Belfast Telegraph journalist Gareth Hanna.

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Ireland’s Defence Forces: Does neutrality mean having no military capability?

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In part-two of a three-part series, People Before Profit TD Paul Murphy makes the case for neutrality and against an enhanced military capacity. Ireland has no capability to control or even police the state’s skies and has an extremely limited maritime capability. The cost-of-living crisis has seen hundreds of service personnel leaving and not being replaced. Some argue that the Defence Forces need investment, modern equipment, and more members. However, some others that more call for more military spending is warmongering and will lead to NATO membership.

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Belfast’s Eamonn Holmes takes no prisoners as he levels the accusations at Phillip Schofield

Sun, 04 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Presenter Phillip Schofield says he has “lost everything” after admitting to an “unwise but not illegal” relationship. And one person in particular – Belfast born bruiser Eamonn Holmes is giving no quarter to his former colleague, and professional rival, making accusation after accusation against the self-confessed serial liar. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Aine Toner.

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Best of the BelTel: The Birmingham Six, why were they framed and who really planted the IRA's bombs?

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Hugh Callaghan, one of the Birmingham Six, who was wrongly jailed for IRA bombings has died at the age of 93. Why was he framed for the pub attacks which killed 21 people and injured 182? And who really planted the IRA's bombs?Host: Siobhán Magure. Guest: John Downing

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Phillip Schofield scandal: 'Unwise but not illegal', but will ITV's morning show survive the fallout of his affair?

Fri, 02 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Phillip Schofield's admission to an affair with a much younger employee on This Morning has opened up a whole new discussion around the ITV show's working environment. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Mel Finn

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Ireland’s Defence Forces: Not neutral, just defenceless and couldn’t cope with united Ireland, says TD

Thu, 01 Jun 2023 23:05:00 GMT

In percentage terms the Republic of Ireland spends less on defence on than any other county in the EU, even Malta and Luxembourg. Ireland has no military radar, no fighter planes and for a maritime nation – very few ships. And Ireland’s Defence Forces are shrinking fast – twice as many people leave than are recruited every year. In part one of a three-part series - Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Independent TD Cathal Berry – on NATO, neutrality and if Ireland’s military can deal with current threats and even a potential united Ireland.

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John Caldwell trial: Allison Morris has the latest as seven are charged

Tue, 30 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Seven men have been remanded in custody after being charged with the attempted murder PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell. A court has heard that the gang alleged to have tried to kill him involved both dissident republicans and non-paramilitary linked criminals. DCI Caldwell had investigated both. Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Allison Morris.

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Allison Morris and Sam McBride survey the NI political landscape after an election earthquake

Sun, 28 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

There’s been a profound change in NI politics. Sinn Féin has surged to new levels of support but the DUP held their ground in the local government elections. But for the first time - the number of nationalist voters is greater than the number unionists. How did this come about and what does all this mean for the future of our politics, culture and society? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Sam McBride and Allison Morris.

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GAA manager Rory Gallagher, Nicola Gallagher and the domestic abuse allegations

Thu, 25 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Warning: today's episode contains content some listeners may find distressing. Earlier this month, Nicola Gallagher wrote a Facebook post detailing serious domestic abuse she allegedly suffered at the hands of her former husband and GAA manager, Rory Gallagher. Rory, who managed Ulster champions Derry has since resigned, after the reaction to Nicola’s post. It has since emerged that Nicola's father sent five emails in total containing the allegations to Derry GAA between April and July last year. However, despite being listed on their website, the email address has been deactivated. What has been both the public and the GAA's reaction to the allegations? Host: Fionnan Sheahan Guest: Rodney Edwards

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Lives taken (Pt 4 of 4): ‘I’m still seeking the truth, 51-years-on, I don’t want Robert’s name forgotten’

Wed, 24 May 2023 00:10:00 GMT

Shane Laverty’s brother, Robert, was killed by the IRA in 1972. Robert was an RUC officer and was just 18-years-old. Shane tells Robert’s story because he does not want his brother to be forgotten. This interview is part of a four-part series featuring people who lost a relative to IRA violence during the trouble. The series was produced and presented by Kirsten Elder.

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Lives taken (Pt 3 of 4): RUC victim’s son says ‘The IRA had a choice, but they took away other people’s choices when they took their lives’

Tue, 23 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

David Hallawell was just 13 when his father, John, was shot dead by the IRA in 1983. John was an RUC officer and was 35 years of age. David Hallawell reflects on his father’s life and how his family had had to cope with his death. This interview is part of a four-part series featuring people who lost a relative to IRA violence during the trouble. The series was produced and presented by Kirsten Elder.

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Lives taken (Pt 2 of 4): ‘My father was murdered in front of me when I was ten’ - it was ‘ethnic cleansing’

Mon, 22 May 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Bryan Finlay’s father, Ronnie, shot dead in front of him, his brother and his mother. Bryan was just 10-years-old, he thought his father would be safe as he had left the UDR, but Ronnie was gunned down on a farm in 1991. This interview is part of a four-part series featuring people who lost a relative to IRA violence during the trouble. The series was produced and presented by Kirsten Elder.

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Lives taken (Pt 1 of 4): Slain UDR man’s daughter feels IRA wanted to "get rid of as many Protestants as possible"

Sun, 21 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Serena Hamilton was just seven and a half when the IRA murdered her father in 1977. He as a part-time UDR man, but he was killed at his place of work, out of uniform and unarmed. David Graham was just 38-years-old. His murder had a huge impact on Serena. This interview is part of a four-part series featuring people who lost a relative to IRA violence during the trouble. The series was produced and presented by Kirsten Elder.

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Profiled: Patrick Kielty, the new Late Late Show host

Fri, 19 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Paddy Kielty will replace Ryan Tubridy as host of RTE’s the Late Late Show. But what do we know about the Dundrum native and how important is it for RTÉ to get this right? Host: Fionnan Sheahan. Guests: Melanie Finn and Samantha McCaughren.

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‘How a cult brainwashed me, and how I escaped’

Thu, 18 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Most people believe that they could never be brainwashed into a cult or be totally enthralled by a cult leader, but it is believed that thousands of people find themselves in that situation every year. Ian Haworth never imagined that he would fall for it, he never thought he would lose his mind and freedom to cult – but that is what happened. He told Ciarán Dunbar his story.

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Gerard Mackin: Meet the brutal Belfast-born Kinahan enforcer the Irish criminal underworld fears

Tue, 16 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Gerard Mackin is the six-foot-tall gangland enforcer who is feared from the Falls to Limerick That is not surprising when you consider he was convicted of nailing another person to a floor – with a nail gun. He has been in the Continuity IRA and in INLA. He was given a one-million-euro contract by the Kinahan crime clan to take out their arch-rival Gerry Hutch. Born in west Belfast, Gerard Mackin’s crime CV is formidable and his earned him the reputation as one of the most violent criminals in Ireland. The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris tells his story.

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Elections in Belfast, can the ‘others’ become the largest block?

Sun, 14 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Nationalists have made up the largest block on Belfast City Council in recent years but there have been momentous changes. The so-called ‘others’ - parties who do not describe themselves as unionist or nationalist – have become a major force and indeed kingmakers on the council – can they build on that in the local elections? Andrew Madden joins Ciarán Dunbar

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Derry and Strabane Council will see Sinn Féin and SDLP fight for the top spot – but the pack is snapping at their heels

Fri, 12 May 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Nationalists are in the majority on Derry and Strabane Council and recent elections have seen the SDLP and Sinn Féin neck and neck as they battle it out for dominance. But there is also a strong unionist electorate in the area, and parties such as Alliance and People before Profit have been gaining strength in the district. Sunday World journalist Ciaran O’Neill spoke to Ciarán Dunbar from Derry with his take on issues, battles and personalities of this campaign.

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The Irish Famine: ‘Trevelyan’s Corn’ and should his descendants make amends?

Thu, 11 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The words of ‘The Fields of Athenry’ are known far and wide. The story of a poor Irish convict and how he ‘stole Trevelyan’s corn’ is synonymous with the Irish Famine. Now descendants of people who profited off the slave trade and who want to atone – are also recognising Trevelyan’s treatment of the Irish.Presenter Siobhán Maguire is joined by Irish Independent political correspondent, John Downing.

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NI local elections: Nationalism, Unionism and others battle to win council seats

Tue, 09 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Whilst people do vote on local issues in Northern Ireland council elections, constitutional politics always plays a role. Nationalism, unionism and those who don’t describe themselves as either will fight it out for council seats. How are things shaping up for the parties, what tactics will they employ, and what are the issues they have chosen to fight the election on? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Peter Donaghy, a data analyst with a keen interest in politics, and by Lee Reynolds, formerly Director of Policy for the DUP.

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Sectarian incidents continue: is the problem getting even worse?

Sun, 07 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

It is a rare day in Northern Ireland which does not see a sectarian incident making the headlines. Sectarian hate crime, flags ripped down, election candidates sharing sectarian content, candidates attacked or threatened, keep Irish out signs, flags commemorating loyalist paramilitary boss, offensive singing... the list goes on and on. Will sectarianism ever go away? Can it get better or are we just stuck with it? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by political journalist Aoife-Grace Moore and political activist Richard Garland.

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King Charles is crowned with support of just 42% of NI folk for monarchy

Thu, 04 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

As King Charles III is crowned the latest Belfast Telegraph / Lucid Talk polling shows that just 42% of people in NI support the monarchy. 50% say they either oppose it or are so disconnected from it that they see even a question about it as irrelevant. What could Charles III mean for the future of the monarchy and the United Kingdom? Bill White from Lucid Talk and the commentator Alex Kane join Ciarán Dunbar to discuss Charles, crown, and country.

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LucidTalk: Polls, politics and parties – support for Sinn Féin holds, unionists support DUP hardline on Stormont

Wed, 03 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The latest Lucid Talk polling for the Belfast Telegraph reveals Sinn Féin remains the party with the biggest support. But the DUP have closed the gap – backed by unionist support for their boycott of Stormont over Brexit arrangements. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Bill White, managing director of LucidTalk, and commentator Alex Kane to take a good look at the stats just weeks out from the council elections.

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Ann Ogilby: Murdered by teenage UDA girls over jealousy

Tue, 02 May 2023 23:05:00 GMT

She was a 32-year-old mother-of-four. Her death at the hands of teenage female members of the UDA was one of the most shocking of the Troubles. Ann Ogilby was beaten to death with bricks and sticks in a Sandy Row loyalist 'romper room' in 1974, all over the petty jealousy of a local women’s UDA boss. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter, Andrew Madden

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‘Nutting Squad’: Third member of IRA's security unit suspected of being a double agent

Sun, 30 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

A third senior member of the IRA's notorious 'Nutting Squad' is now suspected of working with the British. How did this group, who had access to some of the IRA's most guarded secrets become so riddled with double agents?Presenter Kevin Doyle is joined by Allison Morris.

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Sam McBride tells story of Mobuoy, the illegal super dump polluting Londonderry’s water supply

Thu, 27 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

An estimated million tons of illegal waste lies buried just a few hundred metres from the edge of Derry and just five metres from the river which supplies its water. It is one of the biggest environmental crime scenes in the UK. Sam McBride tells Ciarán Dunbar the full story and how the authorities refuse to act.

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Dublin's Trial of the Century (Part 1): The life and crimes of Gerry ‘The Monk’ Hutch

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 23:15:00 GMT

Stealing lemonade at the age of 9, being locked up in Mountjoy prison at the age of 15, to masterminding some of the country’s biggest heists in his twenties – we look at the life and crimes of Gerry ‘The Monk’ Hutch. The 'Monk' walked free from court after being acquitted of the gangland murder of Kinahan associate David Byrne in 2016.Host: Fionnán Sheahan Guest: Paul Williams

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Dublin's Trial of the Century (Part 2): Robin Schiller's first-hand account of Regency shooting.

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 23:10:00 GMT

The brazen Regency attack in February 2016 marked the beginning of a gangland war on a scale never before seen on the streets of Dublin, with a death toll that would eventually reach 18. While much has been said about that fateful day, there's one journalist who is uniquely qualified to speak about it - because he was there. As the verdict looms in the trial of Gerry 'the Monk' Hutch, Irish Independent News Correspondent Robin Schiller shares his first-hand account of the attack and its aftermath.

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Dublin's Trial of the Century (Part 3): Jonathan Dowdall, criminal connections, and his shadow over Sinn Féin

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Former Sinn Féin councillor Jonathan Dowdall is serving his sentence for facilitating the murder of David Byrne. We look at the rise and fall of the state's star witness in the notorious Regency trial, and ask if the country's most popular party, Sinn Féin can shake off his association? Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Fionnán Sheahan.

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Peace and sport in NI: poaching players, police playing GAA, Premier League football in Belfast and the Giants

Sun, 23 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Did you know that Mo Mowlam wanted Wimbledon to become the Belfast Dons and bring Premier League football to Northern Ireland? It never happened but peace did bring Ice Hockey to the city. But it hasn’t been plain sailing, the Good Friday Agreement exacerbated the Republic of Ireland/Northern Ireland football eligibility row with several young players from a nationalist background opting to play under the tricolour. Steven Beacom, Declan Bogue and Jonathan Bradley join Keith Baille.

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Colm Murphy: Who was the veteran republican found liable for Omagh Bombing?

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

South Armagh republican Colm Murphy has died at the age of 70. He had been convicted but later acquitted of involvement in the Omagh bombing. He was later found liable in a civil court for the 1998 attack which killed 29 people. Murphy was at various points a member of the Provisional IRA, the INLA, the Real IRA, and was linked to the Óglaigh na hÉireann dissident group. The Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent Allison Morris profiles him and explains what he was like in person.

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Columba McVeigh: The teenager 'disappeared' by the IRA

Tue, 18 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

19-year-old Columba McVeigh was living in Dublin in 1975. The Tyrone man left his flat on Halloween night to buy some cigarettes and was never seen by his family and friends again. He had been kidnapped by the IRA, before being murdered and secretly buried. Why did the IRA murder Columba McVeigh, why did they hide his body and what role did MI5 play in his story? Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Columba’s brother – Oliver McVeigh.

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Unsolved: Allison Morris investigates the murder of Michaela McAreavey

Sun, 16 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Twelve years ago, Michaela McAreavey was murdered in her hotel room while on honeymoon in Mauritius. She had married John McAreavey just 12 days earlier. Two hotel workers went on trial but were acquitted of the crime.Tabitha Monahan speaks to yhe Belfast Telegraph Crime Correspondent Allison Morris, who recently returned to Mauritius, about the case and continued search for justice.

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Freddie Scappaticci: British spy Stakeknife and IRA 'nutting squad' executioner

Tue, 11 Apr 2023 21:05:19 GMT

Freddie Scappaticci, the informer known as Stakeknife, has died.He was double agent at the heart of the IRA, the man in charge of executing informers was working for the British. Who was he, why did he turn and who was he really working for?Allison Morris talks to Ciarán Dunbar.This podcast was originally published in July 2022.

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Good Friday Agreement: ‘25 year later, we are no nearer to agreeing what happened’

Sun, 09 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The Belfast Agreement left many questions unanswered, many problems unsolved and many points of disagreement. Can those problems be solved without coming to a common understanding of what happened before that, the problem which the agreement set out to solve? Dr Brian Lambkin joins Ciarán Dunbar to drill down into the agreement and what it really means.

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Peace at last? 25 years on from the Good Friday Agreement

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

After a generation of bloodshed and division, Northern Ireland's Good Friday Agreement marked a new era in British Irish politics. But has it succeeded in its mission and is it even still relevant? The BelTel finds out. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: David McCann, Sarah Creighton and Andrew Madden.

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Good Friday Agreement: ‘We missed every opportunity’, admits Stormont’s former top spin-doctor

Tue, 04 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Stephen Grimason was the journalist who waved the Belfast Agreement on our television screens with the iconic quote: “I have it in my hand”. Sam McBride sits down with former BBC political editor Stephen Grimson who later went from poacher to game keeper and headed up Stormont’s press operation. Stephen was optimistic when he left journalism to sell Northern Ireland’s new era to the public. But it was far harder than he thought.

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Enoch Burke claims 'judge laughed, mocked, and ridiculed me' - controversial Christian's court travails

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Controversial Christian Enoch Burke has alleged an Irish judge laughed, mocked and ridiculed him after he sought to raise concerns over the disclosure of documents to him by his former employer. The trial has concluded. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Shane Phelan.

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What does Russia really want in Ukraine and what are ordinary Russians thinking?

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 23:05:00 GMT

War continues in Ukraine at a huge cost in human life. Russia continues to assault Ukrainian lines in the Donbas but with western tanks being supplied to the Ukrainians military observers expect a counter offensive. Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin have declared a ‘new era’ of friendship, but some commentators believe China is the real winner here. Dr Alexander Titov is a history lecturer - he joins Ciarán Dunbar to discuss the latest developments.

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Scissor Sisters: Carved and discarded, the gruesome tactics of Dublin's murderous siblings

Thu, 30 Mar 2023 23:05:00 GMT

It remains one of the most gruesome and grotesque crimes in Ireland – a man murdered by his girlfriend’s daughters and carved into pieces. The Indo Daily hears more about Farah Noor's death at the hands of Linda and Charlotte Mulhall. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Eugene Masterson

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MI5 raises terror threat in NI to “severe” before US president Biden visit

Wed, 29 Mar 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The secret security service MI5 raises terror threat to “severe” just before US president Biden visit to Northern Ireland - It means an attack is highly likely. It comes after a senior police officer suffered life-changing injuries after being shot by the New IRA. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Quest: Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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East Belfast UVF expels 20 for drug-dealing as PSNI crack down

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 23:05:00 GMT

The East Belfast UVF says 20 “once prominent members” of the organisation have been expelled over drug dealing. In an official statement to Sunday Life the loyalist gang denied involvement in the drugs trade. But a judge has said the UVF is behind ALL drug dealing in the east of the city.

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South-East Antrim UDA: ‘Purge’ underway as new management takes over

Sun, 26 Mar 2023 23:05:00 GMT

Senior members of the South East Antrim UDA have been forced from their homes in a ‘purge’. Among those ordered to leave was Adrian Price, named in court as occupying a “command position” in South East Antrim UDA in Newtownards. And this all comes as new management takes over Carrickfergus based syndicate. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph our crime correspondent, Allison Morris.

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The week that was in it, Boris, Trump, and the price of a pint

Fri, 24 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

It’s been quite a big week for news in Northern, in Westminster and beyond. Boris Johnson and Donald Trump have been in the news and so has Stormy Daniels. The Framework has been voted through the Commons with a massive majority. And of course, the price of a pint is going up. Kurtis Reid, Liam Tunney and Margaret Canning join Ciarán Dunbar.

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Census reveals lower percentage of LGB+ people in NI and more

Thu, 23 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

The Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency has published more statistics from the 2021 Census. They cover sexuality, employment, immigration, language and more besides. Andrew Madden and Niamh Campbell join Ciaran Dunbar for a deep dive into the stats.

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Michael O'Neill: Can the returning Northern Ireland manager recapture the magic of Euro 2016?

Wed, 22 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

This week Michael O'Neill will take charge of Northern Ireland for the first time since he was reappointed manager of the national team. Can O'Neill recapture the magic of his first stint when he guided Northern Ireland to Euro 2016 and that famous win over Ukraine in Lyon? Host: Keith Bailie Guests: Steven Beacom, Stephen Craigan

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New IRA: Why do dissident republicans continue with their violent campaigns?

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Almost twenty years since the Provisional IRA ended its armed campaign republican political violence continues. The shooting of PSNI detective John Caldwell was the latest attack by so-called dissidents. What do they want, what do they hope to achieve, and why do they continue with what they would describe as ‘armed struggle’? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Dr Marisa McGlinchey.

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The Burkes: Mayo Christian family cause chaos in court

Fri, 17 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Simeon Burke, Enoch’s younger brother, is in jail and has missed his law exams. He is refusing bail saying was illegally incarcerated. He was arrested on 7 March and charged with threatening, abusive and insulting behaviour at the Dublin’s Four Courts. Amid chaotic and unprecedented scenes, police forcibly removed members of the Burke family from court.Shane Phelan, Legal Affairs Editor of the Irish Independent, joins Fionnán Sheehan to discuss the Christian family’s struggles with the legal system.

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Jeffrey Donaldson’s quandary as DUP supporters say ‘No’ to Windsor Framework Brexit deal

Thu, 16 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Two-thirds of Northern Ireland back the Windsor Framework, according to the latest Belfast Telegraph / Lucid Talk polling. However, the same poll reveals that an overwhelming 73% of DUP supporters say ‘No’ to the deal. The Framework doesn’t deal with some “fundamental problems” created by the NI Protocol, according to DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson but Prime Minister Rishi Sunak says it’s the “best deal available”. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Bill White from Lucid Talk as well as commentator Alex Kane.

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Belfast’s heroin epidemic, are overdose prevention centres a solution?

Wed, 15 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Drug deaths in Belfast are more than double what they were a decade ago, with 15 young people dying on city centre streets within just one-month last summer. A bid to introduce an overdose prevention room has recently received overwhelming support within Belfast City Council to tackle the issue, but not everyone supports the idea. Niamh Campbell is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Andrew Madden, QUB professor Dr Gillian Shorter and former heroin addict, Stephen Clarke, to discuss.

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Michael Carroll, Lottery win disasters and how to avoid them

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

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Noel Johnston: The life and crimes of Ballymena’s 'Cocaine King'

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

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Bonus: NI's first referendum on a United Ireland, 50 year ago

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 11:30:32 GMT

On this day, 50-years-ago, on the 8th March 1973, the Northern Ireland Sovereignty Referendum was held - a border poll on a United Ireland. Why was it held and what happened? Lecturer, writer, commentator and deputy editor of the website Slugger O’Toole, David McCann, tells Ciarán Dunbar all about the 1973 referendum. This podcast was originally broadcast in September 2022.

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Kim Jong-un's North Korea: Assassinations, nuclear tensions and the child heiress to the throne

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Kim Jong-un, the secretive monarch-like leader of supposedly communist North Korea, has recently unveiled his daughter to the world. That has sparked speculation that she could become the next dictator of the hermit state. But what does this mean for tense relations with the West? Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Professor Peter Kabachnik.

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John DeLorean: The rise and fall of the man who brought the future back to Belfast

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

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The murder of Robert McCartney and the IRA cover up

Fri, 03 Mar 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Robert McCartney was murdered by members of the IRA in January 2005; he died after being stabbed in the street outside a bar in Belfast. Like many other murders, the IRA might have hoped that it would eventually blow over, it did not, it became an international news story. Two of his sisters tell Suzanne Breen what they thought of the subsequent criminal trials, and if they think they were used by politicians.

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What is the Windsor Framework and will it be enough for the DUP?

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 16:28:25 GMT

Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has triumphantly declared his new Brexit deal with the EU – the Windsor Framework. What exactly does it entail, how does it differ from the NI Protocol, what does it mean for business and of course, will it be enough for the DUP to allow Stormont to return? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by commentators David McCann and Sarah Creighton, the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor Sam McBride and from the business team, Alyson Magee.

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Allison Morris on the New IRA threat after Omagh shooting

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 15:37:32 GMT

The New IRA has claimed responsibility for the attempted murder of PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell in Omagh. A typed statement plastered on a wall in Derry and signed by ‘T O’Neill’, the name used by the dissident republican group in the past, said it was behind it. It included a warning that the group will continue to target what it calls ‘Crown Forces’. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s security correspondent, Allison Morris, with the latest on this story.

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‘The Firm’ - Lurgan and Portadown’s cross-community crime gang

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

The crime gang known as ‘The Firm’ has something different about it, it's a cross-community crew. Based in the Lurgan and Portadown areas, the Firm includes former members of the Loyalist Volunteer Force as well as people with republican connections. The gang is heavily involved in drugs – and police allege they are connected to two murders. The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent, Allison Morris, joins Ciarán Dunbar, to explain more about the group

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What makes a serial killer and why are we fascinated by them?

Fri, 24 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Books, films, documentary series – the serial killer market is hugely profitable. We just can get enough of murder, horror and psychopaths. Why is that? To try and answer some of those questions, Ciarán Dunbar spoke to Craig Jackson, Professor of Occupational Health Psychology, at Birmingham City University.

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High profile PSNI detective critical after suspected New IRA gun attack

Thu, 23 Feb 2023 15:57:36 GMT

A high-profile senior detective is in a critical condition after gunmen tried to murder him in Omagh, Co Tyrone. PSNI Detective Chief Inspector John Caldwell was shot in front of his son at a sporting complex. The police are pointing the finger of blame at the New IRA. Ciarán Dunbar joined by the Sunday Life News Editor Sharon O’Neill with the details

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Sean Fox: Drugs boss murdered ‘after protection money for dissidents not passed on’

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

The murder of Sean Fox in October 2022 sent shockwaves through Belfast and beyond. The Belfast Telegraph now understands that Sean Fox believed he was safe, as he was paying off a dissident republican organisation, but it now seems that money never reached them. The 42-year-old was gunned down by two assassins, in a crowded public place, on a Sunday afternoon. It was latest in a series of murders linked to drug-dealing and the so-called ‘Marbella Crew’. The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris tells Ciarán the story.

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Wagner: Putin's private army of prisoners

Mon, 20 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Yevgeny Viktorovich Prigozhin, formerly Vladimir Putin’s chef, leads Russia’s private military, the Wagner Group. Russia’s advances in eastern Ukraine have been spearheaded by Prigozhin’s troops backed by thousands of ‘volunteers’ he sourced from Russia's prisons. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Angus Lambkin, an expert in Humanitarian Civil-Military cooperation and international relations to discuss Prigozhin’s rise.

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Nicola Sturgeon: why has the Scottish FM decided to go?

Fri, 17 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Nicola Sturgeon is resigning as Scottish First Minister and as leader of the SNP saying it is the best step for herself, for her party and for Scotland. What does this mean for the country, for her party and its independence drive - and could it have an impact here in Northern Ireland? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by politics lecturer and commentator, David McCann, to discuss Nicola Sturgeon’s legacy and why she has decided to go.

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Nicola Bulley: Rumours rife as mother of two remains missing

Thu, 16 Feb 2023 13:55:21 GMT

45-year-old Nicola Bulley has not been seen since the 27th of January, she disappeared while walking her dog in St Michael’s on Wyre, Lancashire. Police worked off the theory that she had slipped into a river and been swept away – but Nicola has not been found despite extensive searches. That has sent social media into a frenzy of speculation, rumour, and conspiracy. That led the police to inform the public that Nicola was a vulnerable person and had an alcohol problem, a highly unusual and controversial move. Ciarán Dunbar is joined but the editor of the Lancashire Post & Blackpool Gazette, Nicola Adam.

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Submarines and secret planes: How Dublin's Kinahans and other cartels are smuggling drugs

Wed, 15 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

2022 was a significant year for drug seizures in the Republic of Ireland, with almost €40 million worth of drugs seized in the first seven months alone. In this episode, Irish Independent Special Correspondent Paul Williams explains how the Kinahans and other cartels are smuggling drugs. First broadcast August 30th 2022. Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Paul Williams

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Sam McBride quizzes Paul Gosling, the Englishman arguing for Irish unity

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Paul Gosling has written for almost every British broadsheet newspaper, he has been a Labour Party councillor, and is the author of several books. Now based in Londonderry, his most recent work argues for a united Ireland and sets out how it could come about. Sam McBride travelled to Mr Goslings home to discuss how an English Protestant has become a leading proponent of Irish unity in Derry

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Stephen Fulton, the wife-killer forced to resign from top Orange Order position

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Former soldier Stephen Fulton was jailed for shooting dead his wife. He shot Corien in the head after she threatened to leave him. In recent weeks he was made Worshipful District Master of his Orange lodge – a role he resigned following media coverage. Who is Stephen Fulton, why did he kill his wife and why was his sentence so low? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Sunday Life chief reporter, Ciarán Barnes.

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Enoch Burke: What is the Mayo evangelical Christian trying to achieve?

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 07:18:08 GMT

He’s been dismissed from his teaching post but he keeps showing up at the school gates - violating a court order. Not purging his contempt of court means he faces fines of €700 for every day until he does.So, what next for Enoch Burke and his stand in the name of religion?Presenter Siobhán Maguire is joined by Shane Phelan, Legal Affairs Editor at the Irish Independent.

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‘Mo’ Courtney, the UDA, and trouble brewing on the Shankill

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

There are fears of further violence on Belfast’s Shankill Road after thugs thrashed a well-known bar. Sources on the Shankill say the attack was ordered by top UDA loyalist, Mo Courtney, in a dispute between criminals over territory. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris, to find out more.

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Eoin McGonigal - Paddy Mayne’s best friend and SAS original

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Eoin McGonigal was born in Dublin in 1920, a Catholic by religion. At the outbreak of war in 1939, he abandoned his law studies and joined the British Army becoming a commando and later a founder member of the SAS. Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne’s best mate – he has been brought back into the public’s attention by the BBC’s SAS: Rogue Hero series. Who was Eoin McGonigal and his brother Ambrose and what motivated them? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Belfast Telegraph reporter Andrew Madden.

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Lucid Talk poll reveals unionists have turned against Good Friday Agreement

Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Almost 25 years since it was signed, most Unionists say they would vote against the Good Friday Agreement if given the chance today, according to the latest Lucid Talk poll. The polls also show the electorate is split over whether the Sinn Féin president, Lou McDonald, should play a part in political talks in Northern Ireland. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Lucid Talk chief Bill White and the Belfast Telegraph’s Andrew Madden to take a closer look at the statistics.

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Meet the Burkes - The evangelical family from Mayo at the centre of controversy

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

The case of school teacher Enoch Burke has been making headlines after he ended up in jail for contempt of court after refusing to comply with a court order to stay away from his school - following a row over a transgender child's pronouns. Throughout he has been backed up by his family, many of whom themselves are not strangers to the courts. We look at the family behind the courtroom clashes and strong religious views. Host: Kevin Doyle. Guest: Shane Phelan.

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True Crime: Robert Black, the making of a child serial killer

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Robert Black was a monster. He was convicted of killing four young girls but is suspected of abusing and murdering many, many more. Black died in Maghaberry Prison in January 2016. His body was cremated, and his ashes thrown into the sea. Professor Craig Jackson is Professor of Psychology at Birmingham City University, he joins Ciarán Dunbar to explain what makes a serial killer and why we are so interested in them.

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Andrew Tate: Who is this champion of toxic masculinity?

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Andrew Tate is a controversial British kickboxer who has built a huge social media following with younger men because of his flashy life, fast cars, and unapologetic misogyny. But the Indo Daily finds out why recently arrested Andrew Tate's toxic masculinity treads on very dangerous ground. Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Tanya Sweeney.

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How spy Dennis McFadden and MI5 controlled a human rights group fronted by Gerry Conlon

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

More revelations have emerged regarding how MI5 agent Dennis McFadden managed to decimate dissident republicanism. A human rights group founded by McFadden was an intelligence ruse and he encouraged republicans to visit New IRA founder Tony Catney on his deathbed - they fear he bugged those conversations. Ciaran Barnes, Chief Reporter with the Sunday Life, talks to Ciarán Dunbar.

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Stephen Nolan on Jamie Bryson, money, and his longing for a family (Part 2)

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland’s Stephen Nolan says that not being a father makes him feel like a failure. The multimillionaire reveals the scale of his wealth and tackles the issue of having loyalist Jamie Bryson as a regular guest on his show. The podcast is produced and presented by Sam McBride.

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Stephen Nolan: Sam McBride’s exclusive with ‘biggest journo in the country’ (Part 1)

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Stephen Nolan talks about himself a lot – he talks about his weight, his wealth, his mother and his woes. But, there are other aspects of his life about which he is intensely private. In this exclusive two-part interview the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor gets inside the mind of the most powerful journalist in Northern Ireland. Part 2 of this interview will be available on Friday.

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Prince Harry: What is he playing at?

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

From Prince William’s temper to Prince Harry’s manhood, the king’s exiled son doesn’t disappoint with his new page-turner, Spare. But why is Prince Harry revealing so much about the inner workings of his family? Is he a victim or a villain? And is he doing real harm to the Royal Family?Jenny Bond joins Fionnán Sheehan.

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Allison Morris on the murder of Natalie McNally and the scourge of femicide

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 16:53:02 GMT

Natalie McNally was attacked and stabbed to death on the 18th of December in her own home in Lurgan, she was 15 weeks pregnant. The Belfast Telegraph’s crime correspondent Allison Morris joins Ciarán Dunbar to explain what we know about Natalie’s death.

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Crypto, Sam Bankman-Fried and Newry’s millionaire wonderkid

Wed, 11 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Crypto currencies have had a bad year but what exactly are they - the future of money, financial freedom or just an elaborate scam? Ciarán Dunbar sits down with Kurtis Reid to find out more about Bitcoin and other crypto and to find out more about the the 24-year-old from Newry who’s a member of the Bored Ape Yacht Club, an exclusive group that includes Madonna, Snoop Dogg, Justin Bieber and Eminem.

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Lord Lucan, the horrific murder, his Irish links and could a man in Australia really be him?

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Lord Lucan dramatically disappeared after the murder of his family’s nanny Sandra Rivett in 1974. The aristocrat vanished after Rivett’s murder and thus began decades of claimed sightings of the British aristocrat. Despite a global manhunt for Lord Lucan, he could not be found. Can could the latest sighting really be him?HOST: Fionnán Sheehan, GUEST: John Downing

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“My Name is Joseph”: How a young Belfast man lost his life in prison

Wed, 04 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

How failures contributed to the death of a young Belfast Joseph Rainey died in 2013, 10 days after attempting to take his own life in Hydebank Wood Young Offenders Centre near Belfast. An inquest jury found that Prison Service and health trust errors or omissions contributed to the 20-year-old Belfast man’s death. Allison Morris interviews film maker Sean Murray about his short film, “My Name is Joseph”, the story of Joseph Raney’s life and death.

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Best of the BelTel: Dennis Donaldson, Britain's agent at the heart of Sinn Féin and the IRA

Mon, 02 Jan 2023 00:05:00 GMT

Denis Donaldson answered to former Sinn Féin leader, Gerry Adams, and was at the heart of the republican movement for 20 years. So, how did he manage to spy for so long for the British? The Bel Tel finds out. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph Political Editor, Suzanne Breen.

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The Best of the BelTel: What happened to Lisa Dorrian?

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

In February 2005, 25-year-old Lisa Dorrian went missing from a caravan park in Co Down and has never been seen again. Almost two decades on, her family and the PSNI are still searching for her body in the hope for answers and justice. They have only one suspect in mind as to who killed Lisa, and her sister Joanne reveals she has even spoken to him. Host: Niamh Campbell. Guests: Joanne Dorrian, Ciaran Barnes

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Best of the BelTel: Murdered in prison - How the INLA killed Billy Wright

Wed, 28 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Billy Wright, 'King Rat’, was gunned down inside the Maze maximum security prison. How did the INLA manage to get a gun inside the jail and what was the LVF’s bloody response? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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2022, a massive year for news, profound change and not short of farce

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

This year saw the death of the Queen and a major war in Europe. In Northern Ireland we have seen hitmen gunning down their victims in broad daylight. It’s all been very heavy, but we have also had a fair share of farce. Among which was that slap at the Oscars, Kanye West declaring his sympathy for Hitler and the Nazis, and of course there was Liz Truss. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Eoin Brannigan, Allison Morris, Sam McBride and Gillian Halliday.

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Best of the BelTel: Inside the mind of Hazel Stewart

Wed, 21 Dec 2022 08:49:50 GMT

Rural Castlerock in 1991; Embroiled in a sordid affair, Hazel Stewart and Colin Howell plot the double murder of their spouses, disguising them as suicides. Their crimes would not be revealed until 19 years later, when a guilt-ridden Howell confessed and provided evidence against his ex-lover in trial. But is Hazel Stewart truly a cold and callous killer as some think she is portrayed? Or is there more than meets the eye to this former Sunday school teacher?Host: Niamh Campbell. Guests: Allison Morris, Dan Keenan.

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Best of the BelTel: The story of the Castlereagh Raid

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

In 2002 the IRA walked into a Belfast PSNI station and walked out with the secret security files they were looking for. Who planned it and why? There was huge interest in this podcast when first published in May 2022.Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Downfall: Sean Quinn, the Cavan Versailles and the wrath of the fairies

Fri, 16 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

He was a millionaire by 30, but Sean Quinn's rise and fall is documented in a new book, which looks at his many investments, and how nothing, not even an ancient fairy fort, could get in the way of his plans. Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Trevor Birney.

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Colin Harvey makes the case for a United Ireland

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Ireland was partitioned in 1921 when most of the island left the UK to form the Irish Free State. Six Counties of the north-east immediately left to form Northern Ireland and to continue in Union. The majority have voted to stay in the UK ever since, but many nationalists want a referendum on the border. Prof Colin Harvey is Professor of Human Rights Law in Queens, he makes the case for Irish unity.

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Lee Reynolds makes the case for the Union

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland is come into existence on the the 3rd of May 1921 and Ireland as it was to that point, is partitioned. Most of the island became the Irish Free State but Northern Ireland continued to be a part of the United Kingdom. Lee Reynolds, a former advisor to Arlene Foster, a former Director of Policy for the DUP, and the Northern Ireland Director for the Vote Leave campaign, is the expert witness making the case for the Union.

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The complex legacy of SAS legend Blair ‘Paddy’ Mayne

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

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Newry gangland murder sparks fears of further bloodshed

Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland’s gangland bloodletting continues with the latest hit has claiming the life of a man in Newry. Mark Lovell was shot up to 15 times by gunmen who had been lying in wait outside his home in the Carnagat area. Sources in Newry predict a blood bath as revenge is sought for his death. Sharon O’Neill and Brett Campbell join Ciarán Dunbar to discuss the bad blood on the border.

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Wrightbus and Green Pastures in the headlines as court actions begun against the company directors and the mega-church

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Ballymena company Wrightbus collasped in 2019, now the Department for the Economy’s Insolvency service is taking a civil action against 14 people over alleged unfit conduct as directors And, in yet another twist, Green Pastures, the evangelical mega-church founded by Jeff Wright, is being taken to court by the administrators of the bus company. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Margaret Canning and Andrew Madden.

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The Loyalist Flag Protests, 10 years on

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 00:05:00 GMT

On the night of 3 December 2012, Belfast City Council took a vote which led to instant protests. The union flag had flown every single day from City Hall for over one hundred years, but now Nationalist and Alliance councillors voted to fly it on only 18 so-called designated days a year. The reaction was immediate, passionate, and sometimes violent. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Allison Morris.

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The Peru Two: From dancer to drug smuggler, the Michaela McCollum story

Wed, 30 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

August 2013 and Dungannon woman Michaella McCollum – along with her travelling companion Melissa Reid, attempted to leave Peru with €1.6million worth of cocaine. Nabbed by the airport authorities – they both would begin a perilous and treacherous life behind bars at the notorious Ancon 2 prison. We look at the story of the ‘Peru Two’ that is now the subject of a new series on Netflix - ‘High: Confessions of an Ibiza Drug Mule’.

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Unsolved: The murder of Marian Beattie

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Portadown teenager Marian Beattie was just 18 years old when she was murdered. She had gone to a dance in the company of her brother and best friend near the Co. Tyrone village of Aughnacloy in 1973. She left in the company of a young man and was never seen alive again. The Police Ombudsman found failings in how her killing was investigated by the RUC. Belfast Telegraph reporter Niamh Campbell tells Ciarán Dunbar Marian’s story.

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Sam McBride on the new details which have emerged in the NAMA controversy

Fri, 25 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

A judge has revealed new details about the NAMA controversy, one of Northern Ireland’s biggest ever political scandals. Among the controversies surrounding the sale of Nama’s entire loan book here eight years ago was disagreement about the purpose of £7.5m - transferred to an Isle of Man bank account in highly unusual circumstances. Ciarán Dunbar is joined by Sam McBride, to explain the significance of these developments.

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Prisons are filled with men and not women - is it that men are simply more likely to be 'evil'?

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Men are more likely to commit crimes, but why is that, is the system stacked against them, or do men simply have a greater propensity towards ‘evil’? At the time of recording this podcast almost 1,650 men were incarcerated in Northern Ireland. That compared to about 80 women. The difference is staggering but why is it so great? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Dr Michelle Butler and Prof David Canter.

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Monica McWilliams tells the story of the Northern Ireland Womens’ Coalition

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Monica McWilliams tells the story of the Northern Ireland Womens’ Coalition From 1996 to 2006, Northern Ireland had a political party with a difference. It was a party, for women- just for women. In 1998, two of its members, co-founder, Monica McWilliams and Jane Morrice, were elected to the assembly, playing an integral role in the Good Friday Agreement. Jessica Rice interviews Monica McWilliams on the party that changed the political landscape of NI forever.

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Suzanne Breen talks polls, politics and parties and whether ‘joint authority’ is a runner

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

The latest Belfast Telegraph Lucid talk polls tells us Sinn Féin is soaring above the pack but that the DUP has launched a successful fight back. 41% of voters think that if it stays like that – it should mean Dublin sharing power in Northern Ireland but is that possible under the Good Friday Agreement? The Belfast Telegraph’s political editor Suzanne Breen gives us an in-depth analysis into the state of Northern Ireland’s parties, the decisions in front of the DUP’s Jeffrey Donaldson and explains why nationalist are talking up joint authority.

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Miscarriage of justice: The story of the Birmingham Six

Wed, 16 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

In 1974, two IRA bombs in Birmingham pubs took the lives of 21 people. The incident would result in six innocent Irishmen being wrongfully convicted of the crime. We tell the story of the Birmingham Six and how those responsible have not been brought to justice. Host: Siobhan Maguire. Guest: John Downing.

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The ‘cost-of-living crisis,’ what is it, who caused it, and how will affect you?

Mon, 14 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

It’s possible you mightn't notice that the price of some individual items in your trolley has gone up in recent months but when the cashier totals up – you notice All of us have noticed it’s getting harder and harder to get to the end of the month and to reach the next paycheck. We are in a 'cost-of-living crisis,’ but what exactly is it, whose fault is it and how did we get out of it? And are some companies simply taking advantage of the situation to up their prices and profits at our expense? Ciarán Dunbar is joined by the Belfast Telegraph’s Business Editor – Margaret Canning.

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New Belfast drug gangs emerge after old guard's secret gangster phones hacked by French spies

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

It reads like the blurb on the back of an improbable spy thriller, but it’s a true story. The French Secret Service hacks an exclusive mobile phone system. Known as an ‘EncroChat’, it has an exclusive client base, it’s the phone of choice for the underworld. Some of those phones ended up at the bottom of Belfast’s Lagan River. Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Allison Morris.

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Lord Mountbatten: Allegations of abuse made against King Charles' mentor

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Louis Mountbatten was a beloved member of the Royal family and mentor to King Charles. But now allegations of child sex abuse at Kincora, a notorious Belfast children’s home, have been made against him. The Indo Daily uncovers the story of the man known in the royal family as Uncle Dicky. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guests: Senan Molony Political and Sharon O'Neill.

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The Death Investigator- "Everyone who has children in NI should be worried about this!"

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Addicts shooting up in broad daylight and needles discarded all over our streets. Belfast is in the midst of a new pandemic- DRUGS.Coroner Joe McCrisken talks to Sharon O’Neill about the drugs crisis here in Northern Ireland and the deadly pills flooding the streets that are even BANNED in the States.

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"The Belfast agreement was not as good as what was already offered in 1973"- Dermot Nesbitt discusses the past, present and future of unionism

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 09:46:48 GMT

Dermot Nesbitt was one of the negotiators of the Good Friday Agreement and then a key backer of David Trimble in the years after the deal was struck in 1998, The Crossgar man has had a remarkable life in politics and academia and went on to become a Stormont minister. He was standing beside the unionist politician and academic Edgar Graham when he was murdered by the IRA on Queen’s University’s Belfast campus in 1983, Northern Ireland Editor, Sam McBride, interviews Dermot Nesbitt as he reflects on where unionism went wrong in Northern Ireland’s early decades, where it is still going wrong today and what the future holds for Northern Ireland.

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Allison Morris reports on Loyalism’s sense of betrayal seeing support for peace ‘waning’

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 00:05:00 GMT

As an attack on an Irish government target is allegedly called off at the last minute there are serious concerns about the future of the loyalist ceasefires. A letter from the Loyalist Communities Council saying support for the ceasefires may be weakening has been interpreted by some as a veiled threat of potential violence. How did we get here? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Allison Morris.

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Would the Republic vote for a United Ireland?

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Sinn Féin, and others, continue to call for a border poll in Northern Ireland, a referendum on a United Ireland. But it takes two to tango, not only would Northern Ireland have to vote for unity – so would the Republic of Ireland. Fionnán Sheehan is Ireland Editor at with the Sunday Independent and Irish Independent – Ciarán Dunbar asks him the simple question – would the south vote for a united Ireland?

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Downing Street's 60 days of chaos!

Thu, 27 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Liz Truss was the UK’s shortest serving Prime Minister, ever. How did it come to pass that the UK has seen three prime ministers in two months and why did the Conservative Party lose faith in Truss in a matter of weeks? David McCann explains the chaos in the Conservative Party and if new leader Rishi Sunak can bring it to an end.

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Sinn Féin's Mary Lou McDonald, new book says she's a 'Republican Riddle'

Tue, 25 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

What could we expect from a Sinn Féin government and more importantly what do we know about its leader Mary Lou McDonald? Former TD Shane Ross attempts to answer the question in his new book ‘Mary Lou McDonald : A Republican Riddle’.Host: Fionnán Sheehan.

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'Feis fixing': Irish dancing embroiled in cheating allegations

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The prestigious global body that governs Irish dancing is mired in allegations of competition fixing and cheating. Irish Independent News Correspondent Ellen Coyne reveals the revelations that have rocked the Irish dancing world.

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Who killed the judge's daughter?: The murder of Patricia Curran and why her family was not properly investigated (Part 2)

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

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Who killed the judge's daughter?: The murder of Patricia Curran and how an innocent man was stitched up for it (Part 1)

Sun, 16 Oct 2022 18:55:06 GMT

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West Belfast’s ‘Marbella’ drugs crew being decimated by ‘professional’ hitman

Sun, 09 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Sean Fox was gunned down while drinking in the Donegal Celtic Social Club in west Belfast, on Sunday 2 October, in front of more than 100 people. It’s the latest in a series of murders carried out in west Belfast linked to drug-dealing and the so-called ‘Marbella Crew’. Who is responsible for carrying out these killings and why?

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Carrickfergus, the seaside town in the grip of the UDA and UVF

Thu, 06 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The South-East Antrim UDA has carried out seven brutal murders in Carrickfergus since 1995, but no one has ever been convicted in connection with them. The UVF has also been in the news after confronting families over a fight between teenage girls. In this episode of the BelTel – we look at the gangs of Carrickfergus and how they are getting away with murder.

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Alex Kane on where ‘despondent’ unionism goes now

Tue, 04 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

With Stormont moribund, census result posing questions, and nationalists continuing to campaign for a border poll, where to now for unionism? “We have failed, to sell ourselves, to sell our identity, to sell our beliefs. We can’t blame Sinn Féin for that, it’s our own fault,” commentator Alex Kane told the BelTel. Should it be reaching out to Catholics – or should it take a harder line?

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Whitey Bulger and me – John Crawley on his life as an IRA gunrunner

Sun, 02 Oct 2022 23:05:00 GMT

How does a United States Marine Corps end up as a gunrunner for the Provisional IRA and working alongside notorious gangster James 'Whitey' Bulger? Fionnán Sheahan talks to John Crawley about his life as an IRA gunrunner.

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Do we need to dump comforts and capitalism to solve the climate crisis?

Thu, 29 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Catastrophic floods in Pakistan, ice sheets melting, an incredibly hot summer. The effects of climate change seem to be everywhere. Experts warn these changes in the climate will affect billions of us, will cause huge migrations, could lead to war, cause mass extinctions and even lead to economic and social collapses. Then why do most people not seem particularly bothered by it? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph columnist and climate activist Rosalind Skillen.

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NI has held a United Ireland border poll before, here’s what happened

Tue, 27 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The Northern Ireland Sovereignty Referendum of 1973. Ever heard of it? Not surprised if you haven’t. It’s rarely mentioned but it was a border poll – it was a referendum on a United Ireland held at the very height of the troubles. Lecturer, writer, commentator and deputy editor of the website Slugger O’Toole, David McCann, tells Ciarán Dunbar all about the 1973 referendum.

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Madeleine McCann — The little girl lost in time and 15 years of heartbreak

Sun, 25 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

On the 3rd of May in 2007, the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, a three-year-old girl, started a global conversation as to what could have happened her. With the 15th anniversary of that disappearance this year, and a new ‘arguido’ or official suspect named, the Indo Daily revisits the events on the night she went missing and what followed, including her parents Kate and Gerry finding themselves under intense media scrutiny and police suspicion.Presenter Siobhán Maguire is joined by Sunday Independent columnist, Sarah Caden, and journalist, John McGee, who was holidaying in the same resort all those years ago.

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Ready, Steady, Census.... Catholics outnumber Protestants in Northern Ireland

Thu, 22 Sep 2022 11:40:01 GMT

Catholics outnumber Protestants in Northern Ireland, but what does that really mean? Are there any winners in the 2021 Census? What about passports identity and language? Andrew Madden and Ciarán Dunbar discuss the Northern Ireland census results, if they mean a border poll and there’s even a mention of kangaroos.

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Nurses warn hospitals aren’t safe for patients as strikes loom

Wed, 21 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The NHS in Northern Ireland is ‘absolutely broken’, say nurses as they warn that they are set was a winter strike. In this episode of the BelTel we ask why health care professionals are not being listened by administrators and politicians. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Rita Devlin and Conor McDowell from the Royal College of Nursing and Lisa Smyth, Belfast Telegraph health correspondent.

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Eamonn McCann: Protestants coming round to the idea of a United Ireland is ‘magical thinking’

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 02:56:10 GMT

Eamonn McCann's name is synonymous with the Civil Rights Movement, Socialism, and his home city of Derry. Garret Hargan interviews him about his influences, his views and whether or not he thinks there will be a United Ireland.

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The Spence family tragedy ten years on, Nevin’s rugby legacy and what might have been

Wed, 14 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

It has been ten years since Ulster Rugby star Nevin Spence died in a farm accident along with his brother Graham and father Noel. Nevin was at the beginning of his professional rugby career, and it is widely thought he would have become a massive star before his life was cut short. Host, Ciarán Dunbar: Guests, Michael Sadlier and Jonathan Bradley.

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Joe Brolly: In the GAA, we treat referees like s**t. It’s a toxic culture that must change

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Indiscipline in Gaelic games often makes the headlines and it's back on the news following an alleged assault on a referee at an underage football match in Roscommon. Sunday Independent Columnist Joe Brolly discusses referees, violence, and abuse in the GAA. Host Fionnán Sheahan. Guest Joe Brolly

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Covid-19, was the lockdown necessary and have we dropped our guard too soon?

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Covid-19 is still out there but we are no longer taking extraordinary measures to fight its spread. Are we right to relax our defences and if so, were we wrong to lockdown society like we did? Ciarán Dunbar is joined the the Belfast Telegraph’s health correspondent, Lisa Smyth.

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Northern Ireland reacts to the death of Queen Elizabeth II

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 15:25:47 GMT

People throughout the UK are in mourning for Queen Elizabeth II. She visited Northern Ireland many times and is remembered with great fondness, especially in the Unionist community. The Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride reacts to the Queen’s death and and shares his thoughts on how it will impact NI.

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The Rise and Fall of Boris Johnson

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Was Boris Johnson a bungling buffoon propelled to high office by privilege or an astute political operator who became a very unconventional prime minister? What is his legacy here and what might Liz Truss have planned for Northern Ireland? Belfast Telegraph reporter, Andrew Madden joins Ciarán Dunbar in the studio.

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UN Expert - ‘Climate change will lead to war’

Mon, 05 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Ciarán Dunbar speaks to Angus Lambkin, a UN specialist on conflict about our world’s wars today and about the huge and potentially deadly challenges we face in the future as climate changes our planet and its politics

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Sean Quinn, the €100,000 wedding cake, and the right to be forgotten

Thu, 01 Sep 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Sean Quinn was once Ireland’s richest man. Last November, members of the former billionaire’s family used a privacy law to erase from Google much of their past, including lavish spending and court battles over the collapse of the Quinn empire. Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guests: Shane Phelan, Legal Affairs Editor of the Irish Independent and Adrian Weckler, Technology Editor of the Irish and Sunday Independent.

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Scottish Independence would be a ‘shock’ for Northern Ireland unionists

Wed, 31 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The SNP’s leader Nicola Sturgeon wants another referendum on Scottish independence. If she succeeds, could she lead Scottish nationalists to victory and what impact would that have on Northern Ireland? Host: Niamh Campbell: Guests, Alba Party MP Neale Hanvey, political analyst David McCann, the Belfast Telegraph’s Northern Ireland editor, Sam McBride, and the Belfast Telegraph’s political editor, Suzanne Breen.Opening music by Dark Isle Bagpiper.

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Princess Diana: The impact of her death and what she was really like

Mon, 29 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

It’s been 25 years since Diana, Princess of Wales, died in a car crash in Paris. She was at the time, the most famous woman in the world, and many would say she remains so. Fashion designer Paul Costelloe shares his memories of the mother behind the icon. And we ask what impact did her death have in Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Áine Toner, Andrew Madden, Morgane Shanley, Sinéad Ryan and Paul Costelloe.

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Hazel Stewart: The mind of one of Northern Ireland’s most notorious female killers

Wed, 24 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Rural Castlerock, 1991; Embroiled in a sordid affair, Hazel Stewart and Colin Howell plot the double murder of their spouses, disguising them as suicides. Their crimes would not be revealed until 19 years later, when a guilt-ridden Howell confessed and provided evidence against his ex-lover in trial. But is Hazel Stewart truly a cold and callous killer as some think she is portrayed? Or is there more than meets the eye to this former Sunday school teacher? Host: Niamh Campbell. Guests: Allison Morris, Dan Keenan.

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What happened to Lisa Dorrian?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

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Who shot Michael Collins?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 13:58:11 GMT

It's exactly 100 years since the Irish revolutionary leader Michael Collins was killed during an ambush in Co Cork during Ireland's Civil War. What happened back in August 1922 and who shot the Big Fella? Host: Fionnan Sheahan. Guest: Senan Molony.

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‘Mucky Marty’ – Who is Northern Ireland’s most prolific pimp?

Wed, 17 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Sex trafficker Martin Heaney is thought to have exploited hundreds of vulnerable women in Northern Ireland for over a decade. He finally received sentencing for his crimes in July 2022. The BelTel delves into how ‘Mucky Marty’ was finally caught, and we reveal the trauma some of his victims have gone through. Host:?Niamh Campbell. Guests: Allison Morris

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Shot and left for dead: Northern Ireland man who was tortured and shot while his wife was murdered tells his story

Mon, 15 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

A man from Northern Ireland whose wife was murdered in a violent farm robbery in South Africa has said he will never have peace again. He was tortured, shot and left for dead during the raid at their home.Robert Lynn told Adrian Rutherford about his terrible experience.

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The BelTel: The Kidnapping Of Shergar - Ireland's most famous missing racehorse

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

February 8th 1983 – Shergar, the world’s most famous horse is stolen and thus begins one of the biggest Gardai investigations in Irish history – Who kidnapped Shergar the wonder horse? HOST: Fionnan Sheahan GUEST: Irish Independent's Senan Molony

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Kidnapped- "It was the most terrifying face I've ever seen!"

Wed, 03 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Abducted in plain sight. The young victim of an abduction just yards from her Portadown home describes the moment her attacker tried to bundle her in the boot of his car in broad daylight. Presenter Sharon O’Neill.

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Sectarianism - "It is getting worse!"

Mon, 01 Aug 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The words sectarian and sectarianism are widely used in Northern Ireland but we can’t even agree on what they mean. Some believe things are getting better, but others think the problem is getting worse. Warning, this podcast contains offensive language.Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Suzanne Breen, Richard Garland and Pádraig Ó Meiscill.

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From RUC Stings To Street Parades - The Story Of Belfast Pride

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Tens of thousands of people now take part in the Belfast Pride celebrations but that wasn’t the case when the first march was held in 1991, a time when life for gay people was much harder in Northern Ireland. How did Pride grow and why is it still so important? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests Terry McFarlane and John O’Doherty.

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Barrys to Curry's - the story of the takeover that saved summer

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Owned by the Trufelli family for almost 100 years, it was the staple of easter and summer holidays for generations across Northern Ireland. But when the pandemic shut its doors and it was put on the market - there were fears it might never open as an amusements again.Host Claire Williamson speaks to new owner Owen Curry about how long they plan to stay at the Portrush amusements and their exciting plans to open off-season beyond the summer months.

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Bonus Episode: Union leader ‘struggling’ to see how the NI Protocol Bill will improve life for farmers

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 15:34:39 GMT

Bonus Episode: Union leader ‘struggling’ to see how the NI Protocol Bill will improve life for farmersIn the week that the NI Protocol Bill cleared the House of Commons, the Belfast Telegraph business editor Margaret Canning has an in-depth interview with Ulster Farmers' Union President David Brown about whether the bill would be good news for NI farmers, or just milk down the drain.

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Bloody Friday, the IRA's blitz of Belfast

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The 21st of July 1972 was the most prolific day of IRA bombings during the Troubles. Nine people were killed and 130 injured as a blitz of 22 bombs detonated throughout Belfast in under two hours. That day has since become known as Bloody Friday. Why did it happen, how did it happen? Host Ciarán Dunbar, guests Malachi O’Doherty, Niamh Campbell and Aaron Edwards.

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FBI’s Most Wanted - The Bulgarian Cryptoqueen, a $4bn scam, and her Irish connections.

Mon, 18 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

A Bulgarian woman, also known as "Cryptoqueen", has been added to the FBI's list of its 10 most-wanted fugitives. Dr Ruja Ignatova is accused of defrauding investors out of $4bn (£3.3bn) by selling a fake cryptocurrency called OneCoin. The FBI is now offering a $100,000 reward for information leading to her capture. But who is she, or more importantly, where is she? And why is it believed she came to Dublin right before she disappeared? Presenter Denise Calnan is joined by British journalist and author of The Missing Cryptoqueen, Jamie Bartlett.

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Voter fraud, bombs and bullets, from the Armalite to the ballot box, the reality of NI elections

Wed, 13 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Pat Bradley read out the result of the Good Friday Agreement referendum after running elections in Northern Ireland throughout the Troubles.Despite violence and voting early and voting often, he was determined that the ballot boxes would remain open.Host: Allan Preston; Guest Pat Bradley

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The Orange Order and the Twelfth, how did it come about?

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 00:05:00 GMT

Long associated with the Orange Order, marching bands and bonfires – the Twelfth goes back a long way. But what is the origin of the celebrations, of the order itself and does the organisation have a future? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Dr David Hume.

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From Trinity College to leader of Sinn Féin – the making of Mary Lou McDonald

Wed, 06 Jul 2022 23:05:00 GMT

She is the leader of Ireland’s largest political party, but who is Sinn Féin’s Mary Lou McDonald? Host: Siobhán Maguire. Guest: Fionnán Sheahan.

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Scappaticci, IRA executioner and British agent, Stakeknife

Tue, 05 Jul 2022 06:14:31 GMT

The IRA gave Freddie Scappaticci the job of hunting down informers, and executing them.But Scappaticci turned out to have also been Britian’s top agent in Northern Ireland – Stakeknife.What was his role and how did he get away with it? Host Ciarán Dunbar, Guest Allison Morris.

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IRA Heist - the mystery of the Northern Bank robbery

Wed, 29 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

On the 20th of December 2004, one of the largest robberies in history took place during rush hour in Belfast when a gang successfully made off with over £26 million. Why after 18 years has nobody been convicted of the robbery?Host: Fionnán Sheahan. Guest: Northern Ireland editor of the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Independent, Sam McBride

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LIV Golf, the Saudi Government and Sportwashing

Mon, 27 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

There’s a split in professional golf with a small number of the top players having been lured into the new Saudi-backed LIV tour. Are the golfers taking blood money and what do the Saudi’s hope to achieve? Host Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Belfast Telegraph journalists Gareth Hanna and Andrew Madden.

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SPECIAL: Northern Ireland’s finest hour, Spain ’82

Fri, 24 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

40 years on we look back on how Gerry Armstrong’s goal against World Cup ’82 hosts Spain managed to unite Northern Ireland during some very dark times. Host: Steven Beacom; Guests: Gerry Armstong, Jim Shaw and Mike Nesbitt

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Could Donald Trump end up in jail?

Thu, 23 Jun 2022 09:33:38 GMT

Could Donald Trump end up in jail?The big revelations from the first House Select committee hearing into the January 6th attack on the US Capitol including the president’s daughter Ivanka and the former Attorney General Bill Barr stating that there was no election fraud. HOST: Fionnan Sheahan GUEST: Gina London Columnist with the Sunday Independent, Founder of ‘Language of Leadership’ and former White House Correspondent for CNN

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The murder of Lyra McKee and the New IRA in Derry

Mon, 20 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Although critically damaged in the crackdown following their murder of Lyra McKee the dissident the New IRA continue to operate in Derry. What drives them, who leads them and what are they capable of? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Ciaran Barnes, chief reporter with The Sunday Life.

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Bonus Episode: Sam McBride interviews Maroš Šefčovič.

Thu, 16 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

The Belfast Telegraph's Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride has an in depth conversation with Maroš Šefčovič, Vice-President of the European Commission, to get the EU's reaction to UK moves to unilaterally change the Northern Ireland Protocol.

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The UDA - why does it still exist?

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

28 years since the loyalist ceasefires the UDA is still armed, still involved in crime and has continued to murder people. Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guest: Ciaran Barnes, chief reporter with The Sunday Life.

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Northern Ireland’s other disappeared, women murdered by men and secretly buried

Mon, 13 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Murdered by men and their bodies secretly buried: Arlene Arkinson, Caroline Graham, Charlotte Murray, Lisa Dorrian and Saoirse Smyth, are the Northern Ireland’s other Disappeared. Allison Morris tells their stories and their families’ quest to find them. Host Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Allison Morris.

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Bonus episode: Why do so many of us love Love Island?

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

For so many of us Love Island is a guilty pleasure. The Indo Daily finds out why. Host Denise Calnan. Guest: Deirdre Molumby

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'Vladimir Putin has turned Russia into a totalitarian state'

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Vladimir Putin has never hidden his contempt for Ukraine but on the 24th of February, rhetoric turned to action as Russian tanks rumbled in. War has raged since. What was Putin thinking and what sort of Russia has he created? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Mattia Bagnoli, former ANSA bureau chief in Moscow and author of a book on Putinism.

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The Castlereagh Break-in – how the IRA did it and what they took

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 06:39:41 GMT

In 2002 the IRA walked into a Belfast PSNI station and walked out with the secret security files they were looking for. Who planned it and why? And what did the IRA do with the information they found?Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Airport Chaos: How to get your money back when a flight is cancelled

Wed, 01 Jun 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Dublin airport has seen cancelled flights and mile-long queues for security. What went wrong and what can you do when your flights get cancelled? Host: Ciarán Dunbar, Guests: Simon Calder and Siobhán Maguire

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PSNI: Beaten, attacked with bricks and shot at!

Mon, 30 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland cops on the frontline. Sharon O’Neill hears from PSNI officers about the gauntlet of hate and violence they run daily just to serve and protect.

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Ian McElhinney: Star Wars actor and Derry Girls' Granda Joe talks history and spin-offs

Wed, 25 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Belfast actor Ian McElhinney has been in Star Wars, but he’ll be best known as Granda Joe in Derry Girls, a show he believes has educated English audiences about Northern Ireland. He tells Maureen Coleman about the impact the show has had on him, what it was like to work on it and why he thinks it worked so well. Host Maureen Coleman, Guest Ian McElhinney

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The story of Ballymena’s Green Pastures mega church and its pastor, Jeff Wright

Mon, 23 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Ballymena’s Green Pastures, a 1,600-seat capacity American style evangelical church, is unique in Northern Ireland. But recent years have seen controversies at the mega-church. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Sunday Life journalist Christopher Woodhouse and Belfast Telegraph journalist Andrew Madden.

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Derry Girls, laughs, nostalgia, and a roaring success for Northern Ireland

Wed, 18 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

That’s it, the final episode of Derry Girls has aired. The most watched series ever in Northern Ireland, the iconic teen sitcom was also a global hit. What impact has it had on the city and is there a chance we might see the Derry Girls again in the future? Warning – podcast contains spoilers. Host Áine Toner. Guests, the Belfast Telegraph’s Entertainment Correspondent, Maureen Coleman, and Gillian Halliday, the Belfast Telegraph’s Deputy Features Editor.

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Cash or reform – what does Northern Ireland’s NHS need most?

Mon, 16 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Health was a big issue during Northern Ireland's recent election and one thing everyone agrees on is that the NHS and its staff is under a lot of strain, but what does it need most, more money or more reform? The Belfast Telegraph’s Health Correspondent, Lisa Smyth, gives her analysis to Ciarán Dunbar.

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What exactly is the Northern Ireland Protocol?

Wed, 11 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Dominating the airwaves, the Northern Ireland Protocol brought down the Stormont Assembly, sparked street protests and even rioting but what exactly is it? We explain what it involves, why it came about and how, and why unionists are so annoyed about it. Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride and Belfast Telegraph Business Editor Margaret Canning.

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Northern Ireland’s politics have changed so what happens next?

Mon, 09 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

Northern Ireland’s people have spoken and there have been some real changes in Stormont’s political landscape with Sinn Féin and Alliance having a great election. But what will it mean for the future? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guests: Andrew Madden, Belfast Telegraph City Reporter, and Sam McBride, Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Editor.

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How MI5 agent Dennis McFadden crippled the New IRA

Thu, 05 May 2022 09:25:51 GMT

Dissident republicans have continued to use violence to try and bring about a united Ireland but they don’t pose the threat they once did. How did that happen, who is Dennis McFadden and what role did he play in helping MI5 to decimate the New IRA? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph security correspondent, Allison Morris.

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Northern Ireland’s key political battles with Suzanne Breen

Tue, 03 May 2022 23:05:00 GMT

As Northern Ireland votes for a new Stormont Assembly, the BelTel examines where your vote could make a big difference. Host Ciarán Dunbar, guest Belfast Telegraph Political Editor, Suzanne Breen.

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Denis Donaldson, the British agent at the heart of the IRA and Sinn Féin

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 07:41:49 GMT

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Vindicated: The whistleblower vet who took on the government and won

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 00:00:00 GMT

Vet Dr Tamara Bronckaers highlighted breaches of animal welfare law and tried to do something about it. So how did that lead to her being hounded out of Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture and a £1.25m payout of taxpayers' money? Host: Ciarán Dunbar. Guest: Belfast Telegraph Northern Ireland Editor Sam McBride

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The BelTel - Introduction

Thu, 21 Apr 2022 14:47:32 GMT

The BelTel takes you beyond the headlines of the stories people are talking about. This is news like you’ve never heard it before from the best journalists in Northern Ireland.

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