Stormont Sources

• The Executive's Chances of Survival... and a Unionist Merger?

  In this episode of Stormont Sources, David McCann, Michael McKernan, and Tim Cairns go deep inside the latest debates shaking unionism in Northern Ireland.💬 Main topics:Could the DUP and UUP merge? Or is cooperation between unionist parties still impossible?The real story behind Doug Beattie and Jeffrey Donaldson’s secret talks.How Jim Allister’s return in 2004 reshaped unionist politics — and created lasting tensions within the DUP.What the TUV’s rise tells us about the future of unionism.Plus, listener questions on SDLP strategy in South Belfast, whether Claire Hanna’s vote can deliver two Assembly seats, and more.Tempers flared at Stormont this week as Paul Givan narrowly fended off a vote of no confidence. Relations inside the Northern Ireland Executive have hit a new low — and the DUP’s decision not to attend Catherine Connolly’s presidential inauguration has raised fresh questions about political cooperation.Are we heading for another Stormont collapse? Or will the Executive limp on until the next election?With behind-the-scenes stories from Tim Cairns, former Special Adviser to DUP First Minister Peter Robinson, and Michael McKernan, former SDLP adviser, this episode offers rare insider analysis on how Stormont really works.📱 Join the conversation:WhatsApp us at 0333 404 6507 (use the word Stormont)Email: [email protected] us on X, Instagram, and Facebook → @StormontSources🎧 Listen on Spotify / Apple Podcasts / YouTube — and don’t forget to like, subscribe, and comment below with your thoughts on whether the DUP and UUP could ever unite. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Bill Clinton, John Hume & The Queen — The Stories Behind Colin Davidson’s Portraits

  In this bonus episode of the Stormont Sources podcast, host David McCann is joined by regulars Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan to discuss the intersection of art and politics with guests Colin Davison and Mark Carruthers. The conversation is based around their new book, "12 Paintings- Converstations with Mark Carruthers” which features portraits of prominent political figures. The discussion delves into the personal and professional relationships between the artists and their subjects, the impact of Northern Irish identity on their work, and the broader themes of human experience and political history captured in their art. The episode also touches on the significance of Belfast and the role of art in reflecting and shaping societal narratives.🎨 From Bill Clinton’s quiet reflection to John Hume’s humanity, Queen Elizabeth’s historic handshake with Martin McGuinness, and the grief of victims in Silent Testimony, Davidson’s portraits capture the people and moments that have shaped modern Northern Ireland.They discuss:The friendship between Davidson and Carruthers that inspired 12 PaintingsThe stories behind portraits of George Mitchell, David Trimble, and Ian PaisleyHow Belfast’s beauty and trauma shape Davidson’s artThe Queen’s reaction to her own portraitThe ongoing challenge of depicting Northern Ireland’s divided identity through art Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Paul Givan as he faces a No Confidence Motion Over Israel Trip

  In this episode of Stormont Sources, Education Minister Paul Givan joins David McCann, Tim Cairns, and Michael McKernan to address the political firestorm surrounding his Israel trip, the no confidence motion he now faces, and the growing tensions inside the Northern Ireland Executive.Givan defends his actions, challenges claims of departmental impropriety, and responds directly to criticism from across the political spectrum. The conversation expands into a heated exchange over Israel, Gaza, and Northern Ireland’s divided reaction to the conflict — with comparisons to other global crises, from China’s treatment of the Uyghurs to Sudan.Later, the panel debates:Whether Stormont is heading for another collapseWhy unionists feel they’re being held to a “different standard”The future of power-sharing between the DUP, Sinn Féin, and the Alliance Party Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Robbie Butler: The UUP Still Has a Future

  In this episode, host David McCann is joined by regulars Tim Cairns and Michael McKernan to discuss the current political landscape in Northern Ireland. The episode features an interview with UUP Deputy Leader Robbie Butler, who challenges the podcast's previous critical analysis of the UUP's role and future in Northern Ireland. Butler argues for the party's stability and social conscience, highlighting its appeal to young voters and its distinct position within unionism. The discussion also touches on the challenges of political messaging, the impact of historical agreements on unionism, and the potential for leadership changes within the UUP. The episode concludes with a broader conversation about political dynamics and environmental issues in Northern Ireland. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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• Sam McBride on Irish Unity, Unionism, and the Future of Northern Ireland

  What does a United Ireland really mean — and what would it take to get there? In this episode of Stormont Sources, investigative journalist Sam McBride joins David, Tim, and Michael McKernan to discuss his new book co-written with Fintan O’Toole, which presents both sides of the Irish unity debate.🟦 For the Union: McBride explains why unionism still benefits from the status quo — and why, despite Brexit, many in the Republic may prefer to keep things as they are.🟩 For Irish Unity: He also outlines the emotional and economic appeal of a new Ireland — “a revolution without bloodshed” — and why younger generations might see unification as an exciting chance to start fresh.💬 Topics include:Why unionist politicians avoid the debateThe “inevitability” narrative around Irish unityThe Ireland’s Future movementParamilitaries, violence, and what could happen if change comes too fastHow both sides can prepare for a serious, practical debate rather than wishful thinking🎧 Subscribe for more balanced political analysis from Northern Ireland’s leading voices. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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